session 2

This session was an interesting one with fellow classmates becoming guests speakers for each topic.

It began with the topic of "technology, society and global dominance". No, I did not manage to complete my readings on this but the first thing that popped into my mind would be the Japanese Occupation of Singapore in 1942. I guess everywhere in this world, there are always those that use power for selfish reasons which is also evident in Euporean invasion into non-western lands in the past. The reasons? Mainly for trade opportunities and ultimately wealth. Dora's topic on hegemony was very much related to this discussion and yes I do agree hagemony still exists in this globalized era. One for instance was the Iraqi war were the US imposed trade sanctions on Iraq to force them to cooperate in the investigations of WMD they allegedly possessed. Perhaps in this sense it sounds reasonable to do so as WMD is something that would affect the entire world but it's rather sad to know that in such battles, the innocent are implicated.

Another topic up for discussion was "Technology and Human development". Prof posed a question on how we would measure human development. In my opnion it would be to a certain extent, the material possessions because it shows how well a person is getting on in life and yes, the national GDP although it is inaccurate to reflect the earnings of every single person in a country. But that's just on the superficial side. I am in total agreement with whoever mentioned "happiness" as a gauge (whoops~ I forgot who you are!). Each and every one of us has an idea of "happiness". I think we should all appreciate the simple pleasures in life like having our family and friends with us, safe and sound. That to me, is happiness.

I liked the video segment on the Millenium Development Goals. I am aware of the less fortunate people around the world and it sets me thinking: why are people always looking towards wanting more when there are those out there who are practically starving everyday. They are starved of food, education and a good life they deserve to live. Don't get me wrong though. It's okay to want more but to some, nothing is ever enough. I think its high time for a change for the less fortunate given the technological advancement of today's time. I also truly admire people like Bill Gates for giving his wealth for the sake of finding medicinal cures for the benefit of those who cannot fend for themselves.

"Change is inevitable and often necessary,the transition process is painful/difficult for some". This was the second quote by Prof and again I do agree with it to a large extent. I once had this collegue from a logistics company I worked for during my industrial attachment in the poly. She did not have very good spoken English and she was tasked to liase with the supplier at times when her job scope changed. There were many a times when I helped her in her English but eventually my supervisor told me not to because I would have to leave after my designated period of attachment and that colleague would be on her own. I felt pretty bad for her but I understand that while people can help you with the basics, its entirely up to you to climb up the ladder from there on your own. You just can't rely on others all the time. Frankly I don't think anyone in the right mind likes changes because we so comfortable where we are. And even if its a change we don't like, we have no choice but to suck it up because that's how life is. Nothing comes easy right? We can only find comfort in the fact that change is just a mere phase in life and we'll eventually become comfortable with that change before another change takes place again.

I also enjoyed our classmates sharing on their article readings and it was truly insightful! I think they have each done well as for some it may be their first time so kudos! :D I'm up tomorrow and my gosh it feels like forever since I last gave an individual presentation.

The entire session was a rather productive one and I'd give an 9 out of 10 for it :)