Assignment 1: The Voting Situation in Afghanistan by Ling Xuan andAndrea

Summarise the voting situation of Afghanistan in this article within 100 – 150 words.

On Saturday, an estimated 7 million Afghan voters turned out to vote at the presidential and provincial elections, despite threats from the Taliban to disrupt the vote and punish all involved in the first democratic transfer of presidential power in the country's turbulent history. Afghan voters were determined to vote as they wanted to enjoy their democracy, and needed a good president who will help the people and bring positive change and improved security to Afghanistan. Afghan security forces foiled several attacks against voting centers and ensured that the vote went largely smoothly. Electoral officials hope that this election is free of the allegations of fraud that marred the last vote in 2009. Afghanistan is a nation of diverse cultures and languages, which harbors potential for ethnic divides, but campaigns have crossed ethnic lines with contenders from Uzbek, Pashtun and other ethnic groups.
Reader Response Why is there a need to establish proper and secure voting rights for all?

To citizens, voting rights are seen as a key platform in individual preference to a country's decision making process. A capable and reliable leader will be voted into power based on the majority confirmation of the chosen leader's ability. Proper and secure voting rights would definitely have positive consequences. Afghanistan's continued political instability has been deemed intolerable by the public and the public views the elections as a crucial step to improving the situation. Proper and secure voting rights would mean that every citizen, regardless of background and religion, would be offered an equal vote; a fair say in the country's management. A vote is seen as a responsibility towards one's country as well as the future generation and it gives the citizens faith in their country’s future. For the Afghans, faith is derived from having a key role in deciding the next leader of their country and the possibility of the voted leader’s decisions ending the turmoil that Afghanistan has plunged into. The Afghans have expressed that “improved security is their main concern” and they have faith that the elections was a step in the right path to solving their country’s political state. Proper and secure voting rights have indeed proved to be beneficial for a country’s growth and advancement. Notably, under then Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s leadership, the third world nation flourished and stands as the first world metropolis that we know of today.

Assignment 1: It's Time to Shed "Innate" - Shernice Puah(4B) & Cheryl Goh(4C)

SUMMARY QUESTION:
Under old wisdom, a person either has talent or does not. Child prodigies exist as
their abilities appear so early in their life, the first instinct from everyone is normally 'in-born gift'. Conclusions have been made that intensive training is necessary for the acquisition of expertise, but we do not rule out the role of innate ability. Studies have now shown conclusively that mindset, nutrition, parenting, peers, media culture, time, focus, and motivation all profoundly effect the development of abilities. Ellen Winner calls innateness "atypical brain organization" in talented children. This can occur "as a result of genetics, the in-utero environment, or after-birth trauma." People have extraordinary abilities due to physiological differences in their brains. However, such brain differences do not create the ability but the opportunity for the ability to develop.
READER RESPONSE QUESTION:To what extent do you agree with the writer’s argument that achievement depends on attitude, resources and practice.
I agree to a large extent that achievement depends on attitude, resources and practice. For every achievement, hard work is put in to ensure that one is able to perform their best and accomplish their task to the best of their ability. Even though talent may play a part in one's achievements, it is still largely dependable on the effort put in and one's attitude towards their work. It is not only talent that is responsible one's achievements, how one optimize their resources to bring out the best of their work is also a huge factor. If one was to only depend on their talent, they would not be able to bring out their full potential, and are likely to always be at a lower standard than those who try their best and their hardest in accomplishing the task. For example, Leonardo Da Vinci who was mentioned in the article. He was not born a prodigy, and was not labelled 'talented' as a child, but in his adult years, he managed to paint beautiful paintings, and his work is still very appreciated and studied up till date. It is no doubt Leonardo had talent, but his passion for art and the effort he put in throughout his life to achieve his fame today is far more important and significant than the talent that only appeared in his later years. Talent is not the basic of an achievement, attitude, resources and practice are.

Assignment 1: Obama to Call for End to N.S.A.’s Bulk Data Collection - Ong Shi Qing & Renise Ngo (4B)

Summary: The Obama administration is proposing an overhaul of the National Security Agency’s once-secret bulk phone records programme used to analyse links between callers to identify hidden terrorist associates, if any. Under the proposal, the NSA would stop collecting information on Americans' calling habits, could obtain specific records only with permission from a judge and be able to access them with cooperation from phone companies. N.S.A. analysts are also required to obtain court approval before using a phone number to make queries of the database. The programme would undergo major changes under the plan the administration has developed. Many agree that the N.S.A.’s bulk collection of call records should end, and that the government can track suspected terrorists without permanently surveying millions of people. The administration would still determine whether a particular phone number is suspicious enough before the N.S.A. can obtain associated records. Reader's Response: No, it is not justified for the N.S.A to continue collecting phone records of all Americans for it is a breach of personal privacy and despite arguments supporting this action, they have been proven to be ineffective. According to the 30 international human right laws, everyone is entitled to the right to privacy. By collecting the phone records of all Americans, they lose this right as they are, essentially under surveillance by the N.S.A through phone records. There are however, arguments supporting the N.S.A's bulk collection of phone records, that it helps to identify terrorist associates which helps to prevent terrorist attacks and also able to help in the investigation for FBI if it is deemed relevant. An in-depth analysis of 225 individuals recruited by al-Qaeda, whom were charged in the United States with an act of terrorism since 9/11, demonstrates that traditional investigative methods, such as the use of informants etc, were the initial impetus for investigations in the majority of cases, yet the contribution of NSA's bulk surveillance programs to these cases was minimal. The bulk collection of phone records by the N.S.A Indeed, the controversial bulk collection of American telephone metadata, include only the telephone numbers that originate and receive calls, as well as the time and date of those calls but not their content. And collected phone records have been observed to initiate, at most, 1.8% of the investigation of some cases. From this example, it is shown that the N.S.A's bulk collection of phone records is ineffective and does not perform the role it was said to do - prevent attacks or help in investigation. As the collection of phone records is seen as a breach of human privacy rights, with addition of its ineffective, it is not justifiable to continue.

Assignment 1: Obama to Call for End to N.S.A.’s Bulk Data Collection - Cheryl Chua & Kai Ting (4B)

SUMMARY

Ever since the revelation by ex-N.S.A contractor Edward J Snowden, the fact that the American government has been keeping bulk records of the American citizens' calling habits has been faced with many oppositions. The Obama administration is preparing to unveil a new legislative proposal to replace the soon expiring 215 program, which has been listed as illegal by an independent federal privacy watchdog. Under the proposal, it states that the N.S.A would end it's systematic collection of data of the Americans' calling habits but instead the bulk records would stay in the hands of the phone companies, which would not be required to retain the data for any longer than they normally would. With a new kind of court order, the N.S.A could only obtain the records with permission from a judge and would require phone companies to swiftly provide the records in technologically compatible data format, including data about any new calls placed or received after the order is received. However, this proposal would not affect other forms of bulk collection of records under the same provision.

READER'S RESPONSE

By collecting every and any Americans' phone records for a time as long as five years illegally, is in fact a major breach of not just Americans, but any individual's basic right to privacy. If phone records of Americans are to be collected in bulk without each and every affected individual's consent, it is taking someone's belonging without permission which is in a way, a form of theft. Besides, it has been mentioned in the web article that such actions are deemed illegal by America's laws, if it is illegal, it should definitely be stopped and thus not justified for the N.S.A to continue collecting phone records of all Americans. Even though it is said that the huge amount of phone records stored by the N.S.A is necessary to aid in the government's investigations in terrorism and to help prevent large scale attacks, there have been many examples questioning the necessity of the bulk collection of phone records by the N.S.A due to its ineffectiveness. For example, in 2010, Basaaly Moalin was alleged of numerous conspiracies to provide support to al-Shabaab, a Somali terrorist organization. At trial, prosecutors alleged that Basaaly Moalin spoke by telephone to Aden Ayrow, a al-Shabaab leader, and that Basaaly Moalin then transferred an estimated $8,500 to the organization. In this case, the N.S.A's bulk collection of phone records were utilized to associate a number in the organization to the suspect, however, the authorities found themselves in a two months wait to start investigations and then wiretap Bassaly Moalin's phone. This is an evident example showing that the N.S.A is in fact not necessary in investigations and thus has no valid purpose or reason to mass collect Americans' phone records and should not be justified.

Assignment 1 Bitcoin by Thaddaeus and Jun San

SummaryThe author argues that Bitcoin was based on greed and a impractical and unrealistic vision. He argues that Bitcoin's popularity is like a gold rush, where people are rapidly moving to a newly-discovered goldfield. He believes that Bitcoin is unable to buy most things and can only be used for gambling and other extreme activities. Thus, he argues that Bitcoin is practically useless. The author also believes that Bitcoin is going to have a major crash one day due to the over-reliance of its rapid rise in prices   Loik,than its actual use as a currency.

Reader Response
I think bitcoin is very similar to gold, the only difference is that gold exists physically whereas bitcoin exists virtually. Gold is just a metal, but because people put value into it thus it is worth a lot of money today. Similarly, the price of bitcoin 3 years ago was 9 dollars, it was just a virtual form of currency not worth much, however, when more people started buying it its value increased. However, do not think it is worth it to invest in bitcoin as it does not give me a sense of ownership and it is just a few numbers in my account while gold can be physically held and kept. Bitcoin is a perfect representation of todays society not wanting to be left out, even though the value of bitcoin is high and increasing still, people are willing to spend that amount of money just to say that they own their share of bitcoin. There will of course come a period of time where there is an economic crisis and bitcoin's value will drop, maybe even becoming worthless while physical objects like gold will always be valuable.

Assignment 1: Can schools survive in the age of the web? By Alicia (1) & QiEn (8)

Summary:

Many prestigious universities are digitalising courses, lectures and tests. This would signify a change in the future where everyone is able to receive  education of good quality without the restraints of time or money. However, education may cause regression of the skills as with more online information available, people may merely rely on the web and forgo learning fundamental skills that are of utmost importance. Also, access to education may be the only thing that will be a positive change. This is as the form of education that is accessible will remain the same, save the fact that it is in a digital form. Also, these rigid forms of education are unable to provide future students with the newer kinds of skills and instructions that the future society requires.

Reader's Response:

I agree that the future education requires redefining and 'unbundling' as it posts more advantages. Important aspects of life such as time and money will be greatly saved. There is not a need for getting up before sunrise every day to travel to school. As such, learning via new technology spikes interest in the majority, getting them excited about handling and viewing education from another perspective. This may result in greater achievements in the future economy, with the development of skills and knowledge required for success through technology. Illiterate children in rural Ethiopia who were given ‘foreign-looking’ tablet computers preloaded with educational applications, had worked out how to hack the operating system within a mere five months. Redefining of education can be seen as taking into account other measures apart from the standard lectures and tests, and these children have proven it, having hacked a highly complex gadget without being taught how by the conventional method from teachers, but simply by getting along with it. MOOCs (Massively Open Online Courses) are also taking the educational world by storm. By 2013, MOOCs will offer a selection of entirely free online classes from Harvard, MIT, Berkeley and the University of Texas, which are all renowned universities, in order for students who are unable to afford the costly university fees to pursue higher education. Finally, as education revamps, people will begin to cherish things that the screen is unable to offer, amongst the bountiful information online, such as shared space and time.

Assignment 1: Obama to Call for End to N.S.A.’s Bulk Data Collection - Ong Shi Qing & Renise Ngo (4B)

Summary:
The Obama administration is proposing an overhaul of the National Security Agency’s once-secret bulk phone records programme used to analyse links between callers to identify hidden terrorist associates, if any. Under the proposal, the NSA would stop collecting information on Americans' calling habits, could obtain specific records only with permission from a judge and be able to access them with cooperation from phone companies. N.S.A. analysts are also required to obtain court approval before using a phone number to make queries of the database. The programme would undergo major changes under the plan the administration has developed. Many agree that the N.S.A.’s bulk collection of call records should end, and that the government can track suspected terrorists without permanently surveying millions of people. The administration would still determine whether a particular phone number is suspicious enough before the N.S.A. can obtain associated records.

Reader's Response:

Assignment 1 - article 4: much ado about bitcoins - Cherith Lim (7) & Roxanne Yew (12) 4B

Summarise the main points of the current fascination with bitcoin
Many are fascinated with the idea of bitcoin. Senate hearings held to discuss regulating bitcoin earlier this month were “lovefests,” according to The Washington Post. Abroad, Chinese investors are flocking. Bitcoin seems on the brink of respectability. Some of bitcoin’s appeal comes from the fact that it does not physically exist. Each bitcoin is just a string of numbers. Instead of a bank, a decentralized network of computers ensures the authenticity of bitcoin and issues new ones by doing complex calculations. This allows bitcoin to be traded peer to peer, bypassing credit card companies and payment processors. It’s digital cash, offering the same relative anonymity and freedom as a paper sack of bills. WikiLeaks began accepting bitcoin donations in 2011 in order to bypass PayPal and credit card companies, which had frozen payments to the organization. Everything would be for sale to anyone all the time, 100 percent tax-free. Many of bitcoin’s hard-core fans see the currency as a revolutionary step toward this anarchocapitalist wonderland and is mainly innovative in the way of credit default swaps: new ways to gamble with money. 

Reader Response To what extent would you agree with the writer that bitcoin will not last as a form of currency?

I agree with the author to a large extent that bitcoin will not last as a form of currency. "Bitcoin is built on a weird mix of the most old-fashioned kind of speculative greed, bolstered by a contemporary utopian cyberlibertarian ideology." Apart from dealing with otherwise illegal substances on Silk Road, there seems to be hardly any daily value in bitcoin, in terms of buying daily commodities. In my opinion, bitcoin is at best a trading currency, like a fluctuating stock market; everyone is cashing in because the value of bitcoin is continually rising, but how many of them actually spend these bitcoins? "So many have bought in because the Internet is very good at stoking the fear of missing out. There’s even a trendy acronym, FOMO, to describe the anxiety inspired by scrolling through the social media accounts of people having more fun than you. Bitcoin fosters a particularly potent brand of FOMO. " By seeing people gaining small riches, others are afraid of missing out on the cash;   hence this line says it all - "Bitcoin is too dependent on speculative mania to be of practical use as a currency." I watched the value for bitcoin increase by more than USD$100 in a day; this shows that the value of bitcoin is so uncertain that it is impossible to pin down as a proper currency to be used. If one day someone decides to sell tons of bitcoins and send the price crashing down, everyone is just going to lose a lot of money, and public interest will fizzle out really, really quickly. 

Bitcoin (Christine and Joycelyn) 4C

 Summary:
One bitcoin cost around $9 in 2011, then rose to about $14 and it is worth around $880 in 2013, it is on the brink of respectability. Its appeal comes from the fact that it does not physically exist and each bitcoin is just a string of numbers. A decentralized network of computers ensures the authenticity of bitcoin and issues new ones by doing complex calculations instead of a bank, allowing bitcoin to be traded peer to peer, bypassing credit card companies and payment processors. It’s digital cash, offering the same relative anonymity and freedom as a paper sack of bills. Many of bitcoin’s hard-core fans see the currency as a revolutionary step toward this anarchocapitalist wonderland. However, even with government regulation, the promise of bitcoin seems to end with helping online retailers avoid credit-card processing fees. Bitcoin is mainly innovative in the way of credit default swaps: new ways to gamble with money. 

Reader's Response:
I agree to a large extent that bitcoins cannot last as a currency. Bitcoins, because they are not widely regulated or under government scrutiny, are mainly used for illegal purposes. In January 2014, U.S. government agents arrested Charlie Shrem, the CEO of Bitcoin exchange BitInstant, charging him with laundering money for customers of the online drug bazaar Silk Road, which has already been shut down. Law enforcement is trying to stop the use of Bitcoin on such sites—where people can conveniently buy drugs, guns, and illegal pornography. Bitcoins are so widely used for illegal purposes as they are a source of secure payment mode. When one performs a transaction, the Bitcoin software performs a mathematical operation to combine the other party’s public key and his own private key with the amount of Bitcoins that he wants to transfer. It is practically impossible, even with the most powerful computer, to ascertain the code of someone’s private key from his public key, due to encryption. Thus, to prevent illegal crimes from happening, the government should not consent to regulating bitcoins as a currency.
Although people are willing to trade in their government-issued money to obtain Bitcoins, it will not last as a currency because it will pose challenges to the global banking system.

Assignment 1: Human Rights Council (Lucia and Yuling)

Title: Assignment 1: ‘Mind your own business’, North Korea says of U.N. demand for justice
Summary of Article
A vote has been passed by the U.N. Human Rights Council to demand justice for the crimes like systematic torture, starvation and killings in North Korea. North Korean Ambassador So Se Pyong criticized the records of other countries but did not answer the allegations. Human Rights activists who have lobbied for scrutiny of North Korea to be widened beyond its disputed nuclear program welcomed the vote. Roseann Rife, of Amnesty International said that human rights must take center stage at the U.N. Security Council when it considers peace and security in the Korean Peninsula. However, both Western and Asian powers admit that the chances of holding North Korea liable for their crimes against humanity are slim. North Korea will be referred to the International Criminal Court by the U.N. Security Council since the resolution was adopted with strong support.
In the article, human rights activists have lobbied for scrutiny of North Korea to be widened beyond its disputed nuclear program. To what extent do you agree that they have the right to do this?
I strongly disagree that human rights activists have the right to do this. Firstly, these human rights activists are not from North Korea and lack a clear picture of the situation in North Korea. They are looking at the issue from a foreigner’s perspective and lack the insight and true understanding a citizen of North Korea has. What they deem as an act against humanity may not be what the North Korea defines as a crime against human rights. These human rights activists only gain information about North Korea from leaks, or from the media. Reports from the media might not be a true representation of the human rights situation in North Korea. Also, in North Korea, there is a Public Distribution System (PDS) that requires farmers in agricultural regions to hand over a portion of their production to the government. The government then reallocates the surplus to urban regions, which cannot grow their own foods. About 70% of the North Korean population, including the entire urban population, receives food through this government-run system. This shows that North Korea is already trying to improve the standard of living. In the world, human right issue is still a very prominent problem. In many countries, not everyone is entitled to equal human rights and acts against humanity are still largely carried out in most countries. I strongly agree with North Korea's words of 'Mind your own business'. Countries which have voted for the resolution that North Korea's security chiefs and possibly Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un himself should be tried for ordering systematic torture, starvation and killings, may not even have provided their people with total equal rights and is still allowing acts against humanity to take place in their countries.

Assignment 1: Can schools survive in the age of the web? Travis and Yong Liang

Summary: Summarize the main arguments as to how education is likely to change in the future within 100-150 words
The alternative to education in the future will be online learning. We increasingly trust online media for something more fundamental: the skills, knowledge and instruction required to thrive in the modern world. Prestigious universities offer online educational materials in the form of recorded lectures, online tests, digital documents, and blue chip institutional endorsements. Education is not replaced but rather, it can be unbundled, if technology promises not so much to replace older institutions as to break up the packages they once offered, providing particular parts of education at a scale and cost unmatchable by the current education.

How far do you agree with the writer's view that the future of education needs to be 'unbundled' and redefined? Explain in 1 paragraph with reference to specific details in the article within 200-250 words.

I agree to a large extent to the author's viewpoint on the future of education, that the future will be a very uncomfortable place to learn. The future of education would be brimming with all kinds of technology for the children to learn. Although it does bring about many great benefits like allowing illiterate people to be able to learn to read, there are still many important experiences that cannot be experienced by one behind a screen. Community, tuition, interpersonal dialogue, shared space and time are examples of these experiences. The lack of these experiences will greatly hinder the progress of those who want to learn. The use of technology also disallows one to teach and make the students learn certain moral values. For example, integrity is one of these moral values as students can cheat by searching for answers on the vast web while doing online tests, while on the other hand they cannot do so under strict monitoring by teachers in written tests. This will allow students to learn the basic moral values one should have to grow up to become a trustworthy person respected by everyone for his moral uprightness. 

Assignment 1: Can schools survive in the age of the web article by tang fanxi, Loo Maychie

Summary: Summarise the main arguments as to how education is likely to change in the future within 100 – 150 words.
Education in the future is going to be internet-based. There will be more recorded lectures, online tests, digital documents, and blue chip institutional endorsements. Rich educational pickings are also made easily available and accessible as the most prestigious universities offer online educational materials. Education can be unbundled, if technology promises not so much to replace older institutions as to break up the packages they once offered, providing particular parts of education at a scale and cost unmatchable by the current education.
How far do you agree with the writer’s view that the future of education needs to be ‘unbundled’ and redefined ?  Explain in one paragraph, with reference to specific details in the article, within 200 – 250 words.
I agree to a large extent that the future of education needs to be unbundled and redefined. This is because our current education system has already shown many flaws and these flaws are preventing us from forwarding in many aspects. One of them is the rigidity in our education system, where students are being taught through rote learning and flexibility is a skill that would be hard to come by, especially in students of asian countries with education systems that strongly emphasises on this fact. Therefore, merely bringing it online still does not get rid of the current flaws of education. Of course, more people will now be accessible to higher levels of education according to the article and this is something great as more people can attain degrees and pursue their interests. However, it actually just brings more people to a virtual lecture theatre in actual fact. The major irony is that classroom teaching has gone under heavy critique, yet the moment it goes online, it is widely celebrated, thus making many to be blind to the fact that there is actually only a slight difference between the two types of education as they only differ in the way they are conducted in. The article has also presented that children in less developed countries are learning well when technology is thrown to them, even when they do not have any prior knowledge on how to operate them. It is a vastly different way of learning and definitely harder, but this has proved to be effective. Thus, governments worldwide can take these kinds of learning into consideration by moulding their systems after it. It would not work if they merely further develop from current systems, but if they were to totally change it and start from scratch on the question of what education exactly about, breakthroughs will happen and it will be even more relevant for our society. Afterall, our education today is still based on the very beginnings of it, which dates back all the way into history and this already shows how it may have lost some of its value in helping humans to continue progress on way into the future.

Assignment 1: U.N. Human Rights Council voted to demand justice by Jiu Hui (5), Si Yun (8) 4C

Summary:The U.N. Human Rights Council voted to demand justice for Nazi-style atrocities in North Korea.

U.N. human rights investigators said last month security chiefs and possibly Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un himself should be tried for ordering systematic torture, starvation and killings, saying the crimes were "strikingly similar" to those committed during World War Two. There was an overwhelming amount of evidence that North Korea was violating these human rights hence the Council could not remain silent and had to confront North Korea. The U.N. Security Council and the General Assembly need to bring North Korea's leaders to justice for their human rights crimes, however Western and Asian powers concede that for now their chances of holding North Korea liable for crimes against humanity are slim because North Korea can only be referred to the International Criminal Court by the U.N. Security Council, whose veto-wielding members China and Russia both voted against the motion to bring them to justice.

The U.N. Human Rights Council also extended the mandate of its investigator on North Korea by one year and agreed to set up a field office to help him collect more evidence about allegations including that up to 120,000 people are held in political prison camps even though North Korea denies existence of the camps. This is in hopes of getting enough evidence to take action against North Korea.  

Reader's response: 

I agree that they have the right to do this. According to the passage, U.N. human rights investigators said last month security chiefs and possibly Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un himself should be tried for ordering systematic torture, starvation and killings, saying the crimes were "strikingly similar" to those committed during World War Two. "Human rights must take center stage at the U.N. Security Council when it considers peace and security in the Korean Peninsula," Roseann Rife, of Amnesty International, said. Human rights are clearly being violated in North Korea, such as torture and starvation of humans. Beyond their disputed nuclear programs, more emphasis should also be placed on this breach of human rights. North Korea has violated several human rights in the Universal Declaration of human rights, such as 1) we are all born free and equal, 3) the right to life, 4) no slavery, 5) no torture and many more. If the United Nations does not deal with these infamous infringements of human rights by North Korea, it would only lead to a worsen of the human rights infringements, further impacting future generations negatively. The United Nations is present to ensure human rights are protected, and thus has the authority to want scrutiny of North Korea to be widened beyond its disputed nuclear program. Thus, I agree that human rights activists have the rights to lobby for scrutiny of North Korea to be widened beyond its disputed nuclear program.

Assignment 1: The Voting Situation in Afghanistan By Ryan And An Ping

Summary:
President Hamid Karzai is constitutionally bound to step down when his term runs out and the next president has been determined. Afghan voters turned out in large numbers for Afghanistan's first democratic presidential and provincial elections. An estimated 7 million Afghan voters were undeterred by the threat of violence by the Taliban and poor weather, and determined to vote. The Election Day was relatively trouble-free due to heavier security presence in the capital, Kabul, and across the country, although some attacks were reported. Vote counting has started in the polling sites throughout the country and the preliminary results will be announced around April 28. The Independent Elections Commissions is completely ready to hold a second round elections if no candidate wins 50% +1 in the first round. Taliban militants have carried out multiple pre-election militant attacks in recent days, including on the country's election commission. (145 words)

READER RESPONSE QN:
Why is there a need to establish proper and secure voting rights for all? Within 200-250 words, discuss the consequences, positive or negative, with respect to the article.
Afghanistan is a nation of diverse cultures and languages, which harbors potential for ethnic divides. Moreover, it has seen years of violence and thus, its people want an improvement in security, such that their children would be able to go to school without the fear of being attacked or even killed. Thus, proper and secure voting rights for all enables the different ethnic groups to have their say in politicsand choose their leaders, and thus a majority vote for a particular leader will reap the maximum benefits for voters. All ethnic groups are able to support those with common goals as them, and all voices can be heard, without discrimination. It allows the people to vote for a better future, and a stronger security in the country. It gives the people hope that the president they choose will be able to change Afghanistan's current state, and that bombings and wars would cease to exist.

However, if the minority fails to vote for the president of their choice, they might take to arms, further heightening violence. The Taliban insurgents may also take advantage of this dissatisfaction generated from the presidency results, and may use it as a way to increase military manpower and influence over the people.  As seen from the passage, Afghanistan has been plagued with years of war, and falling back into routine due to dissatisfaction is not impossible. The 'majority-wins' nature of the voting may backfire. Furthermore, this method of democracy has led to many deaths and casualties thus far, for both the insurgents and the many innocent afghan voters.

(250 words)

Assignment 1: Innate Talent article by Xin Ni (09) and He Ying (13) 4C

SUMMARY:Summarise the main arguments for and against the concept of ‘innate talent

Science is dissolving the myth of innateness, and that talent is a set of developed and acquired skills. Genes are also a part of the developmental dynamic as the new science of gene expression shows that every individual is built with the capacity, to develop in a number of distinctly different ways. Studies 

have now shown conclusively that mindset, time, focus, motivation and other factors all profoundly effect the development of abilities, from the very moment of conception. Distinct physiological brain differences do not create the ability but the opportunity for the ability to develop. Such as when the brain's left hemisphere is severely damaged, it invites the right hemisphere to heavily compensate for the loss. Achievement depends on attitude, resources, and lots of practice. The essential genius of all human beings is that we are designed to adapt.

READER RESPONSE:To what extent do you agree with the writer’s argument that achievement depends on attitude, resources and practice.

I agree to a large extent with the writer's argument. It is widely believed that the possibility of obtaining high achievements depends upon the presence or absence of inborn attributes variously labelled "talents" or "gifts". However, it is insufficient to only be an innate in order to be successful. Brain difference do not create the ability but the opportunity for the ability to develop. Motivational and personality influences as well as previous learning experiences that equip a person with knowledge, attitudes, skills, and self-confidence. Take for example, one might expect musicians who have absolute pitch to be more successful than those who do not, but that is not always true. Hayes found that that all major composers had needed long periods of training at least ten years of preparation are necessary. High levels of accomplishment invariably require lengthy and intensive training, and even people who are not believed to have any special talent can reach. The differences in quality of instruction, effectiveness of practice strategy, and degree of enthusiasm greatly determine the level of achievement one can obtain. Great achievers such asCopernicus,Rembrandt, Bach, Newton, Kant, Da Vinci and even Einstein were not inborn with the talent to achieve great things. Their abilities are developed through the contributions of some factors such as preparatory experiences, encouragement, support, motivation, self-confidence, perseverance and single- minded concentration. Humans are designed to adapt, talent is a bonus to the individual. The role of innate ability assist one on the path to achieving great things but the essential factors are attitude, resources and practice.

Assignment 1 : Innate Talent article by Felicia (03) & Leandra (06) 4B

Summarise main agreements for and against the concept of innate talent in 100-150 words
In the twenty first century, science is uncovering the mystery behind in-born talent. People believe that innate talent is either present or not as some abilities appear earlier than they could possibly be nurtured. There are child prodigies who have amazing abilities at a very young age. Genes contribute to a person's talent as well, where some people have clear physiological differences. However, super-achievers develop different talents at different ages as talent is a set of developed skills. Talent is a set of skills that are gained. Achievement is reliant on attitude, resources and practice. Early life experience and musical exposure drastically affects the path of a very young child.

To what extent do you agree with the writer’s argument that achievement depends on attitude, resources and practice. Provide reasons for your answer in one paragraph, with reference to a specific argument in the article, within 200-250 words.
Yes, we agree that achievement depends on attitude, resources and practice. According to the article, "The reason why some people seem to be born with such extraordinary abilities is due to distinct physiological differences in their brains, which then creates the opportunity for the ability to develop, but not the ability itself to develop." This means that although they may have different brain patterns, it only gives them the opportunity to develop their talents, and not give them natural talent. For example, Kim Peek, the "real rain man" and Derek Paravicini have the "Savant Syndrome", when the brain's left hemisphere is severely damaged, therefore inviting the right hemisphere, which is responsible for things like music and art, to heavily compensate for the loss. This, says Treffert, "promotes the idea of the brain's plasticity, and the brain's ability to recruit other areas to be put to use." In order for one to develop extraordinary talents, they require firstly the right attitude. They must have the desire to be in constant pursuit of knowledge and the willingness to embrace new challenges. If one is able to have the right attitude, talent can be easily nurtured. Also, it is important to have the right resources. One must source for the essential and helpful resources that one can use to develop his talent. For example, if one wishes to learn the violin, he must know where to look for violin scores and online materials that will teach him to play. Lastly, talent takes practice. "Discipline is the refining fire by which talent becomes ability."-Roy L. Smith. In order for one to develop outstanding talents and abilities, he must first be dilligent in practicing the particular skill.

Assignment 1: The Voting Situation in Afghanistan By Cherri Chan, Tiffany Tsui and Wei Qing

Summary:

Afghan voters turned out for the presidential and provincial elections despite threats to hinder the voting by violence by the Taliban. Voters are undeterred by the threats as they strongly feel that even if their lives are put on the edge, they have to step up to make a difference for their country to improve as a whole. There have been attacks on civilians, military personnel and the police previously, before the voting and while the security hasstepped up, it is a deep concern for the people as the civilians are easily targeted by insurgents. Some polling stations have closed due to the safety of the citizens while others are heavily guarded. Electoral officials hope that this election would be free of the allegations of fraud, unlike the previous one.

Reader's Response:
There is a need to establish proper and secure voting rights for all to ensure a smooth process of the voting exercise without any disruption or obstruction from the militants, so that the citizens can cast their sacred votes in a safe environment and show their support for their favourite candidates whom they believe can bring about improved security after long years of war in the country. Firstly, establishing proper and secure voting rights for all would have a great impact on the national security of the country. In the case of the Afghanistan presidential election, the choice of a new president may have an impact on security cooperation with the United States (US) and the rest of NATO. If the candidates are able to fulfil their promise of signing a US-Afghanistan bilateral security agreement, it would prevent the withdrawing of US troops in the country. Secondly, establishing proper and secure voting rights for all would result in a better and different future as the interests of the citizens are represented when the most popular candidate is being elected as the new president. Afghanistan is a nation of diverse cultures and languages, which harbours potential for ethnic divides, as the candidates tend to represent different area of interest, such as the Tajik and Uzbek ethnic groups and women's rights, hence different candidates elected would mean a different future for the people. Thirdly, establishing proper and secure voting rights for all would ensure that the voting is fair and goes smoothly without abrupt attacks from militants, hence ensuring the safety of the people and also the candidates. If security is not enforced properly, the Taliban and terrorists would attack the citizens, police officers and even the candidates, leaving them with severe injuries, as a result the voting is disrupted, bringing about negative impacts. Only if fairness and safety is ensured in the process of the voting, then the people would be able to cast their votes properly, choosing the most suitable leader who can promise real change and proper practice of democracy in the country, including improved security which is the main concern of the citizens. Therefore, there is a need to establish proper and secure voting rights for all to ensure a smooth process of the voting exercise to elect the right candidate who can represent the interests of the people and promise a better future for them. 

Article 3 Chua Zheng Qian (18) and Wang Ri Zhao (23)

Summary:

The U.N. Human Rights Council voted to demand justice for Nazi-style atrocities in North Korea.
U.N. human rights investigators said last month security chiefs and possibly Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un himself should be tried for ordering systematic torture, starvation and killings, saying the crimes were "strikingly similar" to those committed during World War Two. There was an overwhelming amount of evidence that North Korea was violating these human rights hence the Council could not remain silent and had to confront North Korea. The U.N. Security Council and the General Assembly need to bring North Korea's leaders to justice for their human rights crimes, however Western and Asian powers concede that for now their chances of holding North Korea liable for crimes against humanity are slim because North Korea can only be referred to the International Criminal Court by the U.N. Security Council, whose veto-wielding members China and Russia both voted against the motion to bring them to justice.
The U.N. Human Rights Council also extended the mandate of its investigator on North Korea by one year and agreed to set up a field office to help him collect more evidence about allegations including that up to 120,000 people are held in political prison camps even though North Korea denies existence of the camps. This is in hopes of getting enough evidence to take action against North Korea.

Reader Response:

I agree that human rights activists have the right to widen the scruntiny of North Korea beyond its disputed nuclear program to a large extent.  When the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany became apparent after world war 2, the world came to a consensus that a distinct universal declaration that specified the rights of individuals was necessary to give effect to the UN charter of human rights, and it was finally adopted on 10 December 1948 by the UN General Assembly.  Some of the underlying priciples of the declaration include indivisibility, transparency and accountability. Therefore, one would have assumed that such basic human rights would be provided for in our increasingly globalised 21st century economy, with a highly educated younger generation. Yet, North Korea's governance easily infringes and violates most, if not all of the given rights. From a UN investigation in September, defectors have compared life in the Democratic Republic of Korea (DPRK) to that of German concentration camps in WW2. Public execution and the forced murder of one's own kin are some of the examples of the atrocities commited. This may only be one of many overwhleming human rights violation examples in North Korea. North Korea's stance is that countires should "mind their own business" , and refers to the United States as an aggressive nation who has consistenly infringed on territorial and sovereign rights of other countries as well, which can be compared to that of a gangster. Although this may be true to a certain extent as seen from the US involvement in the war on terror in Iran, North Korea should be held accoutable and responsible for its own violations on rights before it is qualified to criticise the shortcomings of other nations. North Korea's argument centers about the principles sovereignty, which was widely emphasized during the world conference on human rights, 1993, Bangkok Declaration as well. However, its argument is flawed and unapplicable as it goes against the absolute, basic rights of human beings, which mainly include the principles of liberty and right to life. North Korea's isolation and censorship aims to contain its atrocities within its nation and prevent the interference of other nations on the basis of sovereignty, but the atrocities inflicted onto humans goes against the very basis of humanity. If human rights activists do not scrutinise the human rights violations in DPRK and implement measures to deal with the root of the problem, it is akin to idly sitting by watching the lives of others get trampled upon and ruined. Therefore, human rights activists have the right to scrutinise North Korea's actions beyond the nuclear program, as this is the first step to bringing justice and freedom to its oppressed citizens and putting an end to the atrocities of the DPRK regime which violate the fundamental humanity of its people.

Sample Assignment 1: Iraq Child Bill Article by AliasHuxley & M.Mond

Sample Summary of Iraq Child Bill Article

A draft law before Iraq's parliament that would legalise the marriage of girls as young as nine and restrict women's rights in matters of parenting, divorce and inheritance has generated widespread debate. Officials say that the law is a political move to define the identity of the country's majority Shias before next month's election. This is an attempt by Fadila to show Iraqis that they represent the Shia and want to make their identity clear before the election.   They defended the draft law in the name of democracy, and religion. However, International human rights groups have described it as a disastrous regression in the status of women and a discriminatory step backward for Iraq's women and girls.

Sample Reader’s Response :

I do not agree with this law. Firstly, the cultural perspective must be taken into account to consider why this law is discriminatory. In many cultures, men are perceived to be the guardian and protectors of women and children. Hence, men are socially constructed to have the responsibility of taking good care of the perceived weak. However, in this case, the news report seems to suggest that this role might be abused by men. Perhaps, it is assumed that men will take good care of women, a belief that is something taken for granted. Take for example, the infamous rape case in India. It is important to ensure women are protected, not by men, but the mechanism that will enforce it-the law. The Woman’s Charter in Singapore is a clear example to ensure those who discriminate or abuse women are dealt with. Secondly, what makes this law uncomfortable for some would be allowing girls to marry at aged nine. In the eyes of many, nine is not an age where girls should be married as there can be no way that they understand what marriage is really about. Without such autonomy of knowledge, it can be seen that girls are merely objects of possession, not as equals in a marriage. If girls are always seen as objects of possession, they will be discriminated perpetually. Hence, this law does not view girls and women as equals, but definitely lower than men.

Assignment 1:National Security Agency's systematic collection of bulk data phone records by Jodie Suwe(13) and Hew Ying Xin(4) 4B

Article 5
Summarise the main arguments for and against the National Security Agency’s systematic collection of bulk data phone records program in 100 – 150 words

Arguments for the National Security Agency's systematic collection of bulk data phone records is that it helps to identify terrorist associates which helps to prevent terrorist attacks and also able to help in the investigation for FBI if it is deemed relevant.Arguments against the National Security Agency's systematic collection of bulk data phone records programme is that it has exceeded current legal authority,not proved to be effective,the government can track suspected terrorists without placing millions of people under permanent surveillance,is illegal and it has set off a controversy that scrambled the usual partisan lines in Congress.Therefore,there is not a need to collect phone records.


Is it justified for the N.S.A. to continue collecting phone records of all Americans ? Provide reasons for your answer in one paragraph, with reference to a specific argument in the article, within 200 – 250 words.

I believe that it is not justified for the N.S.A to continue collecting phone records of all Americans. Firstly, human rights include the rights to privacy; people should not have their phone records being put under surveillance without knowledge. As mentioned in the article, the existence of this system was only made known to the public because it was leaked. This means that if this information was not leaked out, citizens might never find out that their own phone records are being put under surveillance and may have been hidden from the truth forever. Secondly, the U.S government’s reason for this system is to analyze links between callers in an effort to identify hidden terrorist associates. However, the government should be able to track suspected terrorists without placing millions of people under permanent surveillance. Also, there is no concrete evidence of any major terrorist’s attacks being prevented because of this existing system. Furthermore, even with this system to track down terrorists, there have still been numerous terrorist attacks in the United States. For example, the Boston Marathon Bombings where 3 were killed and another 264 were injured. Thus there is no point as the system is not very effective, and hence, it is not justified for the N.S.A to continue collecting phone records of all Americans.