Reader Response

In the article ‘The Double Edge of Globalization’ by Chanda (2007), he highlighted that globalization encourages the expansion of international trade which aggravates and accelerates environmental degradation and pollution. However, the emergence of greater interconnectivity as a result of globlization also promotes the ease of reaching out to a global audience through the advancement of technology.  

Despite the detrimental effects of globalization, I believe that the benefits of interconnectivity outweigh the negative impacts. Firstly, globalization promotes specialization and creates competition for local markets hence lowering the costs. Furthermore, the expansion of international trade between nations translate to economic growth for most countries in the age of globalization. Secondly, the interconnectivity resulted from globalization means that the public is becoming more conscious of the negative impacts of globalisation and nations are now actively looking into possible courses of actions to avert the environmental consequences. The Montreal Protocol (Chanda, 2007) proved that with effective interventions and joint efforts between the nations, the challenges of globalization can be successfully curbed.

Therefore, while globalization may bring about harmful environmental impacts, these can be averted by the efforts of both the government and the public. The prominent benefit derived from globalization, namely interconnectivity, enables nations to thrive economically and socially, which are the key factors of survival in the globalized world today. 

Summary assignment (e-learning week)

Globalization is often blamed as the cause of climate change and deforestation. The expansion of international trade brought about by globalization results in increased economic activities, which ultimately lead to worsening pollution. Even though globalization is not the sole factor to be blamed for environmental degradation, it is agreed that it further aggravates and accelerates the situation. Furthermore, the lack of commitment and unity in global and local governance make matters worse.  The Montreal Protocol proved that joint efforts between the nations and effective interventions are critical to successfully curb the challenges of globalisation.  

However, globalisation has its advantages as well. It brings about greater interconnectivity between nations and promotes the ease of reaching out to a global audience through online platforms, due to the advancement of technology. As a result, the public is becoming more conscious of the negative impacts of globalisation and nations are now actively looking into possible courses of actions to avert the environmental consequences. 

Scary Oil in-class summary practice

The rise in oil prices threaten the weak global economy. In 2011, a barrel Brent crude costs less than $100 but it cost $125 now. The fear of a potential military conflict between Israel and Iran is the key factor resulting in the spike of oil prices. Furthermore, it caused 3 global recessions including the one in 2008. US and Israel are considering using military force as the last resort to curb Iran's aggression and prevent the development of nuclear weapons. This could aggravate the tension in the Middle East.

Week 4: Paraphrasing & Summarizing 

A2. Butler (2004) mentioned that the nuclear reactors will be more efficient and reliable, with the ability to run largely on its own. They will also be cheaper and emit less radioactive waste.

B1. Quality of life indicators are often used by sociologists to study the disparities between the rich and poor in a nation.

D. Studies have shown that too much time spent on Facebook has an adverse impact on students' academic performance.