Posted: July 18, 2012 in Uncategorized Tags: About The Blog, Introduction

Disclaimer, blogger‖s note and such
Posted: July 18, 2012 in Uncategorized

Tags: About the blog, Introduction
3
Hi everyone,
I started this blog since I took the GRE last year and realized that the main area I had work on
was the analytical writing bit. Considering I wrote every essay in the pool of topics, I think I
might have overdone it a bit But since I had all of this written down, I thought it would be a
waste to just throw it away and so thought I would share it with whoever might be interested.
Please note that I do not think all of these are the best written essays. Am sure you can do
better than me in most of these. I just intend them to be directional in nature, just to feed in
some ideas in the topics you are getting stuck on. You would also note that there are several
essays that are very similar in how they are worded and specially the start in most is very
similar. There are two reasons for this 1) I could not think of a unique start to each of these
essays 2) In GRE only ONE of these essays would come, so it doesn‖t matter how repetitive it
might sound on this blog.
I would love to hear from you guys. I saw on the dashboards that there have been some views
to the essays, do let me know your point of view or if you have any questions – I would try my
best to answer them.
And lastly I would strongly suggest all of you try your hand at writing essays – remember
there is no ―right‖ point of view and unless you write a few, you would not know the areas that
you have to improve on. For me it was all of it – from the content, to the structure, language
and a logical conclusion. This section is becoming increasingly important in admissions and
you can substantially increase your score by practicing a little.
All the best to everyone writing the GRE this year. I am sure you will do great.
In order for any work of art—for example, a film, a novel, a poem, or a song—to have merit, it
must be understandable to most people.
Posted: August 21, 2012 in Uncategorized
Tags: aesthetic movement, art, art for art's sake, in order for any work of art, Kafka, liberal
modern art, mass appeal of art, merit in art, Oscar Wilde, Picasso, social art, value
creation,value of art, Van Gogh
0
Popularity and comprehension by masses cannot be yardsticks to ascertain the value of a work
of art and this is most commonly evidenced by the posthumous success of artists from motley
fields. In the words of Oscar Wilde, definition of art should follow the work; the work should
not adapt itself to the definition. Creating boundaries and frameworks for art especially based
on popular perception would rob art of its essential purpose i.e. to stimulate the senses, and art
would merely be relegated to a career that people are propelled towards because of mercenary
gain.
Art is an abstract concept, one with no conception of ideal. The value of a piece of art cannot
be cloistered in the walls of popular psyche or perception. Artists from Van Gogh to Picasso,
literary progenies like Franz Kafka and Jane Austen, music maestros like Bach and Ray Charles
had extremely varied styles and were only celebrated for their genius posthumously. Critics
and laity alike failed to recognize the merit of their works during their lifetime. However, that
did not propel these prodigies to alter their work based on temporal considerations of popular
perceptions of their time. Art to truly have merit must be timeless and eternal and be full of
vitality connecting with and motivating people.
Art is as much boundary-less as eternal. Artistic masterpieces connect with people across the
barriers of language, culture, expertise and even physical handicaps. Music of wizards like
Mozart and Bach is often used in therapies of alternate healing for mentally handicapped
people. These people might not be able to understand the technical nuances that make this
music nothing short of brilliant, but the combined effect of tempo, rhythm, sound is what
connects with them and has an ameliorative effect. Fusion of different types of music is
testimony that language barriers do not immure true art either. Sufi music is extremely
popular across the world and is enjoyed equally by people from myriad ethnicities who in all
likelihood cannot understand or even relate to the lyrics.
While art for art‖s sake is a prevailing liberal modernism outlook, a new view of the relevance
of art is as an instrument to effect social change. This outlook necessitates that art be
understood by a majority. The work of art would only be as powerful as the number of people
it can inspire and motivate, obscurest and incomprehensible art would be little more than
megalomaniacal indulgence by the artist. With art having the capability to transcend
boundaries, cultures and religionsit can be a powerful tool to actuate people towards
humanitarian ends, bringing people together in an enriching exchange of ideas and thoughts.
This would only be possible when art is accessible – physically and cognitively to a majority.
In conclusion, the definition of what makes a piece of work truly art changes over time and
neither expert nor popular acclaim can be the litmus test to adjudicate the merit. Art for its
own sake serves to stimulate senses of the people and the creative urges of the artist and does
not necessitate popular acceptance, but art as a catalyst for change requiresthat must be
comprehendible by the populace.
Many important discoveries or creations are accidental: it is usually while seeking the answer
to one question that we come across the answer to another.
Tags: accidental discoveries, adventitious, chance discoveries, chance favors the prepared
mind, fortuitous discovery, fortune favors the brave, law of gravity, Louis Pasteur, luck in
research, Newton, Penicillin, Shakespeare
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It was during research for the treatment of gastric ulcers that the scientist accidentally forgot
to wash his hands and later discovered a sweet tasting powder that was to be the saccharine.
Adventitious instances abound in the scientific and creative process and often the
environments are made conducive for such aberrations to present themselves. Indeed some
discoveries today might have been very different had these fortuitous events not presented
themselves. At the same time it would not be correct to say that chances of happenstance
discoveries increases only when answers to another question are being sought.
The importance of the scientific process and design of the research experiment cannot be
undermined and must be carefully controlled. There are however incidents which cannot be
controlled and in fact have lead to improvised results beyond that derived through a
meticulous process. It was thanks largely in part of mercury spilling accidentally and without
the knowledge of the inventor, that the photographic process was enriched. Other examples of
discoveries that were not predicted in any manner by the researcher include penicillin, the
microwave and cornflakes.
While several important innovations have been purely coincidental, as Louis Pasteur said,
“chance favors the prepared mind”, accidental happenings also require a qualified person to
recognize their importance. In absence of this, many favorable events would merely be
rejected as vagaries that need to be ignored or avoided. With increased mechanization and
automation, we run the risk of overlooking these incidents and experimenting for improved
outcomes. Newton‖s coming across the falling apple and his curiosity about the principle, lead
to an understanding of gravity. Many people would have seen things drop before him but it
was his scientific bent of mind that lead him to question the occurrence.
The field of arts is an area where the importance of accidents is even more pivotal. Artists do
not usually start with a defined outcome in mind and often depend on external and internal
vicissitudes to evolve their work. By not having a goal in mind and by remaining open to
experimentation, they view the process as a means to learn and improve their art. Some
literary masterpieces like Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas were never intended to be books in
the first place, but chance lead to its becoming one of the defining writings of its time.
Shakespeare never published any of his plays during his lifetime for fear of losing out
audience, he was merely seeking a living when he wrote out plays that were to outlive him for
centuries to come.
In conclusion, the process of accidental discoveries and creations is an important one, the
impact of which cannot be fully predicted but the merit of which cannot be denounced.
Learning is primarily a matter of personal discipline; students cannot be motivated by school

or college alone.
Tags: aim of education, Albert Einstein, alternative education, Anne Sullivan, creative
education, education, Helen Keller, holistic education, home schooling, innovation in
education,learning, learning a personal discipline, learning to
learn, pedagogues, pedagogy, role of educational institutions, role of school and college, self
learning, Sudbury Schools, teaching
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“I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn”
These lines by Albert Einstein succinctly capture my views on the process of learning and the
role of pedagogues in education. Albert Einstein himself went to school only briefly and
thereafter was home schooled and is renowned the world over as a genius par excellence.
Another exemplary leader who never went to school was Abraham Lincoln who is widely
believed to be the greatest American president in history. Both these men are testimonies to the
fact that learning is inherently an innate quality that blossoms with the right stimulus.
Education is not an end in itself; the purpose of education is to prepare students for the life
long process of learning so that they can contribute to the development of self, societies and
nations. However, the prevailing view of learning in educational institutes worldwide is that
students are disinclined to learn which necessitates the fact that they need to be coerced into
learning. Alternate views of education are represented in schools like Sudbury schools where
students are free to determine their own methodologies of how to learn and the environment
is made conducive to aid them in this process – interaction with teachers, students both
younger and older and their communities, make their education more holistic and sparks in
them a desire to accumulate knowledge. As research shows, students from these schools are
more inclined to further their education and enroll in higher institutes of learning as
compared to their peers from traditional teacher oriented schools.
It is imperative to be conversant with the fact that teachers do not reserve the exclusive right
as the “possessors” of knowledge. Learning arises from interaction with various elements –
from the students‖ experience and beliefs, from their interaction with fellow students, from
extra curricular activities they undertake and from their associations with their community. It
is in fact a continuum and for this process to be systemized it is crucial that students are able
to amalgamate these experiences and the school acts as a social entity. This enriching and
diverse process cannot be encapsulated within any curriculum nor can it be restricted as the
prerogative or responsibility of a few. Students themselves need to see the value of learning
and their potential as learners, it must impel them form within.
Institutions of learning have the same responsibility and role to play as Anne Sullivan played
in the development of Helen Keller. Instructors must act as facilitators and explorers in the
process, both imparting knowledge and be willing to learn themselves. The must foster the art
of questioning and inquiry and actuate their pupils to seek answers independently. All too
often questioning by students is browbeaten and restricted within the confines of the
curriculum. This attitude impedes and discourages the students to seek solutions and assay
problems from different perspectives. However the purpose of schooling is not to create
uniform molds out of students, the pedagogues have the responsibility to bring out an enhance
the ability of each student, to encourage those who already have an inquisitive mind and to
support those who are getting immured in any manner.
To sum up, teaching is not the exclusive domain of the teacher or learning the sole
responsibility of the student. Learning and teaching is a continuous journey that the teacher
and the student embark upon together and where each experience is viewed as a means to
enrich themselves and the other.
Scientists and other researchers should focus their research on areas that are likely to benefit
the greatest number of people.
Tags: greatest good, larger problem, maximum benefit, medical research, Penicillin, quality vs
quantity, scientific research, Scientists and other researchers
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The author contends that scientists should focus their research and energies only on aspects
that have high relevance. The reasoning of the author is likely based on two points 1) research
that does not benefit a large number of people would be wasteful as the effort expended could
have been utilized to solve a bigger problem, and 2) the scientist himself stands the greatest
chance of fame if his inventions have made a significant impact. While both the aspects on
which the author basis his opinion are well intentioned, problems that besiege a smaller
section of the population cannot be deemed to be less critical. Two other aspects the argument
overlooks are that of problems remaining stagnant and that impact of fortuitous discoveries.
An ideal example to assess the merit of the author‖s proposal would be the field of medical
research. While there are problems that plague a large number of people such as anxiety and
stress related ailments, a majority of health concerns are limited to a small section of the
population. These range from mental health imbalances like schizophrenia to Down‖s
Syndrome and stress related ailments; a majority of health concerns are limited to a small
section of the population. These concerns though suffered by a few have a largely debilitating
effect on the individual affecting their cognitive, sensory and motor functions. Limiting
research, then, on the premise that they are not mass concerns would be akin to marginalizing
those suffering from these ailments. Both the patient and their families would have nothing to
turn to, and would be left at the mercy of their fate, waiting for death to relieve them of their
suffering.
Another aspect to consider is that health concerns are manifestations of our lifestyle. The
problems deluging us today were not the same problems suffered by our ancestors and the
concerns that the future generations are likely to phase cannot also be enlisted today. A large
number of predilections we suffer today have their genesis in increasing pollution brought
about by industrialization and pursuit of capitalism. Respiratory problems, lung infections,
hearing impediments are all outcomes of increasing air and noise pollution. It is a proven fact
that the incidence of these diseases is higher today than it was a few decades back. Small pox,
on the other hand, was an anathema a large number of our predecessors were immured with
but which today has been eliminated. Containing research on any concern because it is not
widespread today would be adopting a very myopic and short term view.
The third aspect that the author fails to take into consideration is that the outcome and benefit
derived from a breakthrough in a field cannot always be pre ascertained. The radio for
instance, was initially meant to be restricted for the exclusive use of the US Navy. Today
however, the radio is the most popular media for the entertainment and information of
denizens residing in remote villages and third world countries. Another example is that of the
commercial dye; the impact of which was fully realized only when the fashion industry
started using the dye. It threw open doors for a large number of people to pursue the field of
chemistry as a commercially viable career option. Fortuitous discoveries, which were never
intended to be, also fall out of the scope of the authors view. Penicillin for instance would
likely not have been discovered had Sir Alexander Fleming concerned himself only with
solving the larger problems.
In closing it has been highlighted that there are several implications that need to be
considered before the debate of the scope of research is settled. In most cases any restriction
would be deleterious and the final decision must be based on evaluation of the different
perspectives mentioned above.
Politicians should pursue common ground and reasonable consensus rather than
elusive ideals
Tags: Abraham Lincoln, Common ground, democracy, elusive ideals, harmony, pursuit of
ideal,reasonable consensus, will of the people
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The debate raised is essentially one of harmony vs. pursuit of the ideal and I would contend
that the debate is far too complex for a single answer to hold true in all situations. Assaying
the scenario and debating what represents the larger good would best settle the dichotomy.
The government in all cases must work FOR people, not necessarily AS PER the people.
In the democratic form of government, government officials are voted by the electorate and
represent the will of the people. This format has its genesis in inherent trust by the denizens
that their elected representatives would carry out their will and work in their interests. To that
extent, it is an authorization and approval given to the government officials to exercise their
judgment on the behalf of the people. There are atleast two scenarios where it would be
necessitated that the elected representatives pursue the ideal – 1) when the decision pits one
sections of the population against another and 2) when the decision has long term
implications.
What is good for one section of the population might not necessarily be beneficial for the
other. What constitutes the will of the people is an extremely divergent and colossal array of
needs and requirements. In such cases it is usually the will of the majority or the more
powerful section that is taken into consideration. However, in such cases it would be up to a
strong leader to determine what is in the larger interest of the nation and base their decision
solely on that. Abraham Lincoln, considered one of the greatest US Presidents, had no
compulsion to oppose slavery. He faced stiff resistence from his white compatriots and general
population. Nevertheless he continued the fight on humanitarian grounds and helped
ameliorate the conditions of millions of colored people who were suffering extreme
humiliation and debasement.
In many cases, common citizens don‖t have a full view of the present situations and they are
not aware of / or don‖t take into account many other relevant aspects and thus they express a
will that is only based on their immediate interests. For instance the population might be
inclined that the government divest in developing industry which would propel employment,
but it is in the long term interest of the nation that the money instead be allocated to
environmental causes. Seeking consensus would be beneficial in the short run, but work to the
detriment on the nation in the long run.
However in certain situations, it is often necessary to make compromises in order for the
momentum to continue. A my-way-or-the-highway approach works little and signifies a
closure of all communication, which is essential to resolve problems. The Great Compromise
made on the debate of representation from various states in the US congress highlights one
such instance. The flexibility shown was essential to keep all the states happy and ensure that
the debate was settled quickly instead of drawing into a long debate.
In summary, there are merits to both sides of the argument. The final decision should be taken
after careful analysis of the implications and which route presents the greatest benefit. This is
the true test of an effective leader.
Politicians should pursue common ground and reasonable consensus rather than
elusive ideals.
Tags: Common ground, democracy, harmony, idealism, ideals, majority, popular
choice,reasonable consensus
0
The debate raised is essentially one of harmony vs. pursuit of the ideal and I would contend
that the debate is far too complex for a single answer to hold true in all situations. Assaying
the scenario and debating what represents the larger good would best settle the dichotomy.
The government in all cases must work FOR people, not necessarily AS PER the people.
judgment on the behalf of the people. There are atleast two scenarios where it would be
necessitated that the elected representatives pursue the ideal – 1) when the decision pits one
sections of the population against another and 2) when the decision has long term
implications.
compulsion to oppose slavery. He faced stiff resistence from his white compatriots and general
environmental causes. Seeking consensus would be beneficial in the short run, but work to the
detriment on the nation in the long run.
However in certain situations, it is often necessary to make compromises in order for the
closure of all communication, which is essential to resolve problems. The Great Compromise
made on the debate of representation from various states in the US congress highlights one
such instance. The flexibility shown was essential to keep all the states happy and ensure that
the debate was settled quickly instead of drawing into a long debate.
In summary, there are merits to both sides of the argument. The final decision should be taken
after careful analysis of the implications and which route presents the greatest benefit. This is
the true test of an effective leader.
People should undertake risky action only after they have carefully considered
its consequences.
Tags: being safe, calculated risk, consequences, hedonism, no risk, playing safe, risk, risky
action
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Despite being aware of the harmful consequences of blithe actions, we undertake several risky
behaviors. Hedonistic pleasures like smoking, binge drinking, driving with a seatbelt have
consequences few would be unaware of. This knowledge though does not contain us as we
feel these are relatively small risks and the temporal pleasures we derive from them far
outweigh the chances of anything potentially harmful happening to us. Research shows that
there is a biological reason for such egregious behavior and dopamine in our brains induces
us to be involved in actions for little or sometimes no reward at all.
In other cases, the import of our actions are not completely portent. Should we then stop
ourselves from experimenting? Columbus embarked on the journey thinking he was headed
towards Asia but he used the peregrination as an exploration and wound up reaching
America. Volkswagen‖s Beatle revolutionized the creative industry and managed to move
advertising from a factual form of communication to sensory advertising harbringing a new
creative revolution. The marketers at VW could not have predicted this outcome and in all
likelihood would have been advised against their judgment.
As kids we undertook several endeavors such as touching hot objects or approaching a total
stranger, which were potentially harmful. Not knowing the consequences actuated us to a
large degree in indulging in these acts. As we grew older our appetitive for risk got
substantially contained because we can now potentially consider the implications of our
actions. However this knowledge has not always merited us. The consequences of this are most
apparent in our career decisions and several students prefer to take the path of least
resistance, as it is the safest choice to make. Few mavericks are willing to follow their heart to
careers that would fully utilize their potential and make them happy. Cognizance of the
outcome and the risk involved in such cases is actually detrimental for us.
In closing, the financial turmoil that the world is facing today has led risk to be synonymous
with imprudence. Risk however is imperative and beneficial, and the dynamism of the
environment does not always make it possible for us to be aware of consequences of all our
actions. The challenge then is to continuously balance opportunity and peril and thereafter
ascertain the best course of action.
Leaders are created by the demands that are placed on them.

Tags: born leaders, Caesar, charismatic, civil rights movement, Gandhi, leaders, leaders are
created, Leadership, Martin Luther King, Napoleon, nurturing leadership, Steve Jobs
0
Stories of people such Napoleon and Steve Jobs, one an insignificant corporal who went on the
become an emperor and the greatest military commanders of all times and the other an
orphan who dropped out of school but subsequently established the most creative company,
incline us to believe that leadership is an inherent quality determined by our genes and not
something that can be created or nurtured. I am disinclined to agree with this view and
believe that situations and circumstances are catalysts that burgeon leaders, however not
everyone takes up this opportunity.
Napoleon himself believed and I paraphrase, “as the nation was perishing I was born”. It was
circumstance that impelled people like Napoleon or Martin Luther King Jr. or even Mahatma
Gandhi to take responsibility of their surroundings that eventually lead to their apotheosis.
Martin Luther King Jr. was in fact reluctant to be involved with the boycott movement
following Rosa Parks‖s arrest and thereafter the expectations and demands placed on him lead
him to become the pioneering figure in the American Civil Rights movement. The
discrimination and humiliations that Mahatma Gandhi faced as an Indian in South Africa
were instrumental in shaping his views as a social activist, before which he was pursuing a
career as an advocate. All three people then were not actively looking to become emissaries of
the people, but were relegated to leadership positions.
Experts believe that everyone possesses the same inherent qualities and the capacity for
leadership. While some possess personality traits that increase their proclivity to be leaders,
these traits are not always nurtured and developed. And whereas most of us have experiences
or witnessed crisis like King or Gandhi, not all us choose to learn from those experiences.
These dichotomies highlight that leadership potential is often squandered and it is essentially
an amalgamation of the circumstance and the inclination of the individual, which distinguish
the leaders from the followers.
It is also important to note that the definition of a leader is also circumstantial. Different times
call for different kinds of leadership qualities, negating the view that leaders are born.
Terrorist attacks during the regime of George Bush Jr. necessitated a leader who could stand
up and defend his turf, who could be viewed as a savior from external threats. The financial
turmoil of the present, on the other hand requires a leader who can take strategic, cogitated
decisions and balance short-term boost with long-term development. In the business arena as
well, this definition has evolved from the earlier times where it was believed that leaders‖ role
was to provide thought leadership, whereas managers were needed for operationalizing and
implementing these ideas. Today however, it is imperative that leaders also display qualities of
being effective managers.
The arguments extended above conclusively prove that leaders are created by demands of the
situations and have to evolve as these situations develop. While each individual has innate
capabilities, the choice to exploit these always resides with the individual.
Every individual in a society has a responsibility to obey just laws and to disobey and resist
unjust laws.
Tags: Abraham Lincoln, Arab Spring, civil rights movement, disobey, just laws, Martin Luther
King Jr, obey, slavery, unjust laws
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I concur with both the views put forth by the author and believe that it is not just the luxury,
but the responsibility of each individual to comply with just laws and oppose unjust laws.
Only a combination of the two can ensure the highest good and well-being of the people.
However it is often asserted that it is not always possible to decide the merit of a law and that
what is just for one might be unjust for another. In subsequent passages I would be exploring
all these various aspects in brief.
Laws provide structural guidelines that delineate behavior and guarantee people their
freedom while ensuring that the rights and freedoms of others are not impinged. In absence of
legislature, we would be ruled by a state of anarchy and chaos with each individual
plundering and pulverizing at will and the law of the jungle where the mighty thrive and the
weaker perish, would be true for the human race as well. If for instance, the law guaranteeing
right to security of each individual was disobeyed, every individual would be free to kill
anyone else they might have the slightest grudge against.
It would be necessitated to define what an unjust law is. Laws when proposed and
implemented are done to protect the interests of the society or atleast a section of it. In the case
of the latter it can easily be argued that what is good for just for one section my not be good
for another. In judging the merit of a law, however, we must weigh it on our moral compass
and further consider whether the law protects the interest of the minority and the
marginalized. Given this outline, laws that protect the interests of women cannot be said to be
unjust. On the other hand, laws in US that legalized slavery or the segregationist laws that
existed prior to the civil rights movement, are examples of unjust laws.
Egregious laws such as the two highlighted above resulted in severe subjugation of individuals
and legalized various atrocities committed against them. As responsible citizens it is our right
to opposed such laws so that the interests of the majority and the weaker sections of the
society are protected. Abraham Lincoln, being a white, had no compulsion to oppose slavery.
However he did so on humanitarian grounds and helped ameliorate the conditions of millions
of colored people who were suffering extreme humiliation and debasement. If Martin Luther
King Jr. had not advocated the rights of black Americans, it would be impossible to match the
growth and progress the country has made.
Even when laws are consistent for the entire populace but immure their rights as individuals,
the laws would be classified as unjust. Such laws are prevalent in autocratic and dictatorship
governments. These laws are only promulgated to the protect the interest of the ruler and the
cost of the well-being of the citizens. The state has wide-sweeping powers to undertake any
action that it believes is against the interest of the state and several human rights violations
have taken place under the garb of state protectionism. As evidenced by Arab Spring, such
injustices perpetrated against the denizens cannot continue unabated forever and sooner or
later there would be an uprising to overthrow the tyrannical leader. The economic costs of
such rules and uprisings are leviathan and arrest the growth of the nation.
Through examples along a diaspora of situations it has been established that questioning
egregious laws has a direct impact on the well being of the populace and the growth and
prosperity on the nation. Questioning authority then, in instances of gross misconduct by the
authorities, becomes our responsibility. At the same time, disobeying laws that are just would
lead to disarray and chaos and curb the freedom that law are supposed to grant us.
Some people believe it is often necessary, even desirable, for political leaders to withhold
information from the public. Others believe that the public has a right to be fully informed.
Tags: censorship, corruption, freedom of information, human rights, national interest, national
security, political leaders, press, right to information, secrecy, terrorism, terrorist
attacks,transparency, withhold information
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Freedom of information to the population is a right that is enshrined in international
instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and is believed to be the
cornerstone of every democracy. Freedom of citizens to seek and access information has wide
merits and except for cases where withholding information from the public is in the larger
interest of the nation, any curtailment of this freedom would result in a demagogic state of
affairs.
At the outset, exceptions to this fundamental right must be enlisted. International charter of
human rights defines these unequivocally as instances where there is a threat to national
security, law and order, rights and reputations of others and public health and morals. In the
event of war, classified information, which would endanger national security if access were
available to egregious elements, must be curtailed from reaching the laity. This is necessitated,
as it is impossible to delineate anti national elements from amongst the populace. Secrecy in
matters is also prudent when unsubstantiated information is likely to cause panic and pellmell
in the nation.
Barring the above instances, free flow of information is essential for the citizens to participate
actively in the governance of the society. It is impossible for the government or legislation to
guarantee the security of each and every individual and in instances of possible terrorist
attacks, the denizens cannot be vigilant unless they are disclosed information about possible
terror attacks that the intelligence agencies have intercepted. A complete disclosure of facts,
endangered locations and modus operendi of the terrorists is crucial if such events are to be
thwarted.
Effective governance is a misnomer in absence of accountability of public officials who work

on behalf of the citizens. Corruption and red tapism is rampant in countries where the
populace does not have the right to demand information about how the money they pay as
taxes is being utilized. Stastics prove that countries where the right to information act has
been enacted, have been successful inr educing corruption and mismanagement. Stastics also
reveal that 9 out of 10 countries that rated high on government transparency, had an effective
legislation whereby people had the freedom to peruse government documents. In India, the
right to information act has been instrumental in implicating many high ranking public
officials who had plundered the tax payers money.
Transparency in government working is also essential for citizens to make a more informed
decision about their elected representatives. In absence of such information, the decision
would be based purely on rhetoric and in certain cases vote buying. In less developed
countries politicians often rig up data and false facts during election time to convince the
electorates about the impact they have made. An uninformed citizenry would have no way of
adjudging the veracity of these claims and would be hoodwinked into voting for those who
have the political and mercenary muscle to influence opinion. Even the government officials
are impelled to work for the good of the people under the watchful eye of an informed
citizenry.
In closing, when the larger interest of the nation is taken into consideration there is no
justification of information being suppressed from the public. Free access to government
policies and decisions is imperative for effective governance, enhanced transparency and
informed decision making which are pillars that strengthen a nation. With the preclusion of
matters where disclosure of information is likely to impede the functioning of the nation,
there is no cogent argument for such censorship.
The most effective way to understand contemporary culture is to analyze the trends of
its youth.
Tags: art, beliefs, contemporary culture, pop culture, tradition, youth culture
0
Disclaimer: I wasn‖t particularly happy with the points in this essay, but at that time could not
think of much else.
The author opines that youth are the most accurate representations of contemporary culture
and I concur with this view. While culture is not uni-dimensional and several sub-cultures
cohere to define the dominant cultures these vagaries are best witnessed in the youth and they
thus form the ideal representative sample for undertaking a culture analysis.
Two critical points that the opponents of this view fail to take into consideration are 1)
cultures are a continuum and aspects of every culture are transmitted to subsequent
generations and 2) youth culture is not restricted to a typical definition of rejecting all that
their progenitors believed.
The ethos of a society is an amalgamation of aspects comprising of beliefs, attitudes, art, ethics
and traditions. These are handed over from one generation to another often in subconscious
and intangible ways and become inextricably combined with the personas of the next
generation. At the same time youth embrace newer ideologies and beliefs which together with
the values the y previously held, become the defining culture of a society. The popularity of
fusion music that combines contemporary sounds with traditional element of music, is
testimony to the fact that culture evolves along a continuum. The language of youth in India
despite significant western influence, has to totally transformed to English but is something
known a Hinglish with elements of both Hindi and English in it. It would be inaccurate to
study the older populace as they would fail to note this evolution.
The second argument flows from the first and it is imperative to note that youth, like culture,
cannot be boxed into a standard definition. Influence and uptake of modern culture is an
individual choice and the notion that youth culture is defined as pop or rap or oculist, is
erroneous and at best only a sub culture. The dominant culture of each youth is determined by
his personality, ethnicity and even his residence. Youth in the cosmopolitans for instance are
very different from their counterparts in smaller cities. Every youth within a city do not
immure themselves to a single definition either – some are more liberal in their outlook and
might uptake a culture very different from that of their parents while others are more
traditionalists preferring to conform with social values. This spread of values would then be
an accurate picturisation of the culture of the society and a need to study the adults would not
be necessitated.
In closing, it has been highlighted that both for reasons of continuity and diversity, youth are
the best lens with which to view the contemporary culture.
In most professions and academic fields, imagination is more important than knowledge.
Tags: Conditioning, creativity, Imagination, imagination vs
knowledge, iPhone, Knowledge,Steve Jobs
0
Albert Einstein‖s view on imagination is often quoted, “ ….Knowledge is limited. Imagination
encircles the world.” According to Einstein, imagination is a limitless reservoir from which we
can draw forth freely, whereas knowledge even in a genius like Einstein himself is a limited
resource. At the risk of contradicting Einstein, I believe the argument merits further discussion
to ascertain the relationship between imagination and knowledge.
What if the capacity to imagine differed in different people? What if this capacity was actually
dependent on the knowledge of the individual? The debate would then shift from being one of
mutual exclusivity to a symbiotic one. This is indeed the case; research has indicated that
people with a higher intelligence have more active and colorful imaginations than those with
average or lower intelligence. Imagination doesn‖t arise in silos or from a vacuum, it draws
forth from our past experiences and information which are stored in the memory as
knowledge. This is evidenced in human life – leave an infant alone with a bottle of milk, its
imagination would not impel him drink milk from the bottle when it feels hungry (though his
survival instinct might), but as he grows older his knowledge would become the catalyst for
the action. In the case of Pavlov‖s dog, it was not imagination that caused it to salivate at the
sound of the bell, but knowledge based on past learning which established a correlation in its
mind between the sound of the bell and the promise of its hunger being satiated.
It cannot be disputed that imagination serves the basis of innovation. Had Steve Jobs not
envisioned a device that was not fixated in factory settings but could dynamically become
more efficient as it operated, drawing forth from crowd sourcing, the iPhone would not have
become manifest. Indeed market research in this regard would have failed to envisage the
possible of such a device since users based on their knowledge of available devices and
technology would not have been able to conceive this innovation. However, simply having
imagined the gadget would not have been of much benefit either, in absence of knowledge of
how to develop the product the imagination would at best just have been an idea, a very
interesting one but with no practical application. One needs to also stop and consider why
Jobs was the most likely candidate to come up with this path breaking innovation.
In the real life scenario, the relative importance of imagination and knowledge is not fixated
but is fluidly determined by the state of the market. In an economically and politically
unstable market, academicians from all fields of study are less inclined to take risks; it is
knowledge that takes precedence over imagination. It is no coincidence that the more
developed and stable nations are the breeding grounds for newer ways of thinking. These
nations provide stability that enables an individual to focus his attention away from the
demands of providing for daily existence, for which he relies almost exclusively on his
knowledge, and frees up cognitive functions that can be diverted to more creative pursuits.
Lastly imagination devoid of the boundaries of knowledge nurturing it, runs the risk of
becoming a vagary of the mind. Unrestrained imagination and incessant dwelling on an idea
or illusion of the mind can develop into delusion and a mental imbalance. People lose control
of their neurotic functions and can develop ailments like dementia and schizophrenia.
Knowledge of realties and evaluation of these thoughts against past information to ascertain
possibilities is what helps contain these thoughts.
In conclusion, the answer to the debate stirred by the author is not preclusion or relative merit
of one over another, but an interdependent relationship in which both are correlated,
resulting in the most efficient state where the whole is greater than a sum of its parts.
Colleges and universities should require all faculty to spend time working outside the
academic world in professions relevant to the courses they teach.
Tags: academia, colleges and universities, faculty, non academic
settings, pedantic,professors, research
0
While there are incremental benefits to be gained by pedagogues working professionally in
their fields of study for both the teachers themselves as well as for the students, the
unqualified and all encompassing assertion of the author must be contended. The implication
of the policy must be considered from all aspects before the debate can be substantiated.
At the outset, practical knowledge in the field of study can metamorphise pedantic and insipid
instruction into a more pragmatic and interesting interaction where the students and teachers
can engage in a collaborative process to make learning more enriching. Academicians would
be able to link the curriculum directly with its real life applications and students would be
better prepared and keener to grasp concepts that they know would have application in
future. Instructors and pupils together can cogitate over problems facing the relevant
professions and might be better suited than the professionals alone in unraveling these
conundrums. Working on these real life case studies would also bolster the resumes of the
students and would enable them to contribute immediately to their work place. The impact,
thus, would be pervasive ranging from learning to performance.
The pedagogues would benefit from this exposure as well. It would provide them with a
means of staying updated with the transformations in the field based on which they can
propose changes to the curricula or reinvent their instructional methodologies. Additionally, it
would also provide them with a fallback career option in case they want to transition from the
field of academics into a professional career in their field of study. Industry collaborations and
associations could also provide a likely source of funding for universities and highly reputed
institutes worldwide have close alliances with the corporate sector in a symbiotic relationship.
At a macro level, universities also stand to gain with this exchange as it provides them with an
opportunity to market themselves more credibly. Corporates where the university academia is
working would be more willing to take students as interns as well as recruit from the colleges.
This close association would naturally lead to a two way flow of best practices and
professional ethics which would lead to the pupils having a holistic exposure and being more
industry ready and employ-able.
However the repercussions of this need also be carefully assayed. Faculty in most colleges and
universities are already overburdened and stretched for time between teaching and
administrative duties. Their role as transmitters of knowledge does not end with the classroom
instruction, but requires them to devote several hours outside of the classroom into research
and experimentation on how best to evoke the curiosities of their students. This would then be
a high opportunity cost to pay by requiring faculty to work in professional settings. It would
also be prudent to understand that while pragmatic knowledge adds incremental value for
some subjects like management and science, for other fields of study like literature and
geography having industry experience is not a prerequisite and not much value is derived
from the teachers‖ spending time working as poets, authors and cartographers. This time
could be better utilized by investing in research and providing personal attention to individual
students.
In conclusion, it is evidenced that exposure to professions related to the field has many
advantages for the instructors, students as well as universities, however this time comes with
an opportunity cost of reduced time spent on personalized attention and research on
improvising pedantic methodologies and hence the decision should be left to the discretion of
the faculty members and universities to be decided on a case to case basis.
The most effective way to understand contemporary culture is to analyze the trends of
its youth.
0
The author opines that youth are the most accurate representations of contemporary culture
and I concur with this view. While culture is not uni-dimensional and several sub-cultures
cohere to define the dominant cultures these vagaries are best witnessed in the youth and they
thus form the ideal representative sample for undertaking a culture analysis.
Two critical points that the opponents of this view fail to take into consideration are 1)
cultures are a continuum and aspects of every culture are transmitted to subsequent
generations and 2) youth culture is not restricted to a typical definition of rejecting all that
their progenitors believed.
The ethos of a society is an amalgamation of aspects comprising of beliefs. Attitudes, art, ethics
and traditions. These are handed over from one generation to another often in subconscious
and intangible ways and become inextricably combined with the personas of the next
generation. At the same time youth embrace newer ideologies and beliefs which together with
the values the y previously held, become the defining culture of a society. The popularity of
fusion music that combines contemporary sounds with traditional element of music, is
testimony to the fact that culture evolves along a continuum. The language of youth in India
despite significant western influence, has to totally transformed to English but is something
known a Hinglish with elements of both Hindi and English in it. It would be inaccurate to
study the older populace as they would fail to note this evolution.
The second argument flows from the first and it is imperative to note that youth, like culture,
cannot be boxed into a standard definition. Influence and uptake of modern culture is an
individual choice and the notion that youth culture is defined as pop or rap or oculist, is
erroneous and at best only a sub culture. The dominant culture of each youth is determined by
his personality, ethnicity and even his residence. Youth in the cosmopolitans for instance are
very different from their counterparts in smaller cities. Every youth within a city do not
immure themselves to a single definition either – some are more liberal in their outlook and
might uptake a culture very different from that of their parents while others are more
traditionalists preferring to conform with social values. This spread of values would then be
an accurate picturisation of the culture of the society and a need to study the adults would not
be necessitated.
In closing, it has been highlighted that both for reasons of continuity and diversity, youth are
the best lens with which to view the contemporary culture.
Claim: The best test of an argument is its ability to convince someone with an opposing
viewpoint. Reason: Only by being forced to defend an idea against the doubts and contrasting
views of others does one really discover the value of that idea.
Tags: ability to convince, agreement, argument, best test of an argument, change
opinion,consensus, counter argument, counter view, debate, discussion, open
debate, reconciliation,synthesizing views
1
The author opines that the merit of an argument resides in its ability to change the opinions
even of with those with dissenting views. I however believe, that the strength of an argument
is ascertained not in convincing but in an ability to listen to and reconcile opposing
perspectives. Socrates emphasized the importance of seeking the truth of the matter as
opposed to the ability to win an argument. This view characterizes an openness of thought
and the willingness to acknowledge that one‖s initial ideas could be expanded and developed
or in fact be completely wrong. This process of seeking the truth is fundamentally based on a
dialectical process seeking reconciliation amongst different points of view and has in its ethos
the larger goal of enriching the outcome. At the same time, a discussion whether with others
or self fosters the development of the participants as well.
In the realm of science, innovation has its genesis in disagreeing with the existing solutions
and answers. It requires a rejection of current methodologies and is centered on the belief that
a better, more efficient way of doing things exists. A discussion amongst the proponents of the
earlier theories and supporters of a new way of thinking naturally ensues. While an outright
rejection of prevailing thoughts and a dogmatic pursuit of the radical would also lead to a
change, this change would best be deemed an improvisation when it seeks to amalgamate the
knowledge acquired by the predecessors and the perspectives of other stakeholders. The field
of alternate energy sources for instance has been brought about by the confluence of the
dissenting views of environmentalists and scientists and is now believed to be critical for the
preservation of our earth. Preclusion of one view over another would not have created this
synergy with the total exceeding the sum of its parts.
Any single view is likely to reflect the sentiments only of the puissant and tends to be limited
and even distorted. If socialists and leftists do not question the government; vested interests of
the capitalists and the mercenary gain the government can derive from them would become
the sole considerations for promulgating policies, which would be detrimental to the interest
of the proletariat. Examples of such scenarios abound in real life and a latest incident in India
where a raging media debate between the government, industrialists and the laity concluded
in the industrial house relocating to another location in order to safeguard the interests of the
farmers, is testimony to the fact that discussions seek to benefit the majority. In situations like
these, trying to convince all stakeholders towards a common viewpoint could result in an
impasse which can be avoided through a discussion where each party tries to see the
perspective of the other and willingly arrive at a common decision.
A rich and lively debate amongst people also stimulates the progress of all concerned
stakeholders. The participants develop critical thinking skills and empathy that enables them
to view the situation from the point of view of the others. By seeking to transcend differences,
they can develop their own beliefs more thoroughly and by critically evaluating the views of
others they can nurture the cognitive skills to identify fallacies and weaknesses in the views of
their opponents. Additionally, listening to counter arguments is the fastest way to promote
learning and indeed many educational institutions use debates as means to pique the interests
of students to explore, research and get into the depth of the topic. All these skills are of life
importance and enable individuals to contribute valuably to their nations.
Another merit of debate is witnessed in the debates one engages in with oneself. Such internal
discussions are the most prudent way to ensure that the most objective approach is employed
and biases are not coloring our judgment. Edward Jenner for many years researched the
probable reasons for small pox in those who were afflicted by the ailment but was unable to
find a cure. It was only when he decided to employ a contrasting strategy and instead look for
answers in those who never contracted the disease, was he able to find the cowpox vaccine.
In conclusion, it has been highlighted that progress be it for the goal, the individual or the
society, is largely dependent upon accepting opposing views and reorganizing and
synthesizing these into creating something new.
Nations should suspend government funding for the arts when significant numbers of their
citizens are hungry or unemployed.
Tags: Andy Warhol, arts in recession, arts in war, Damien Hirst, funding in
arts, genesis,government funding of arts, government funds, Lapis
Lazuli, philanthropy, purpose of art,raison de etre, Yeats
0
The author proposes, based no doubt on a socialistic perspective, that in times of dire
circumstances a funding reallocation should be done and grants that were being given to
artistic institutions should instead be diverted to ensuring adequate food and employment to
the marginalized denizens. While the author‖s outlook is munificent and any optimization in
the funding if beneficial to a larger population must be considered, it would also be
imperative to be conversant with the implications of a complete diversion of funds.
At the outset, it would be crucial to inspect the various sources of income for an art house. For
most organizations, government funding is a small but important source of inflow. The other
sources – proceeds from sales and exhibitions, philanthropic donations and voluntary
donations provide more substantial relief however these are inextricably linked to the market
conditions. In a recessionary economy, donations and proceeds to non profit organizations are
significantly reduced and citizens from across a cross section of strata‖s prefer to save or divest
their savings into areas that provide immediate return on investment. In absence of these, the
art houses rely solely on government subsidies and grants and if these too are withheld a
vicious cycle is likely to set, starting with an drop in marketing and promotion, in turn leading
to a drop in the patronage for these exhibitions or shows with the ultimate effect of this
reduced popularity being felt on declining ticket sales and a further reduction in sponsorships
from private sources.
The primary purpose of art is as a catalyst to stimulate senses, as a means of self-expression

and as an external manifestation of our own myriad emotions ranging from joy, melancholia,
hope and aspiration. This intangible and incalculable benefit of the arts must not be
undermined. As W.B. Yeats‖s poem ―Lapis Lazuli‖ highlights, art provides hope and
encouragement in times where there is not much else to lift the spirits of the people. It serves
to revitalize and rejuvenate a morose population and the joy derived provides a potent
medicine to deal with the harsh realities of the trying times. From another perspective, the
sufferings of the people in times of adversity provides fuel to the imagination of artists and
some prominent artists like Damien Hirst and Andy Warhol have risen from the mires of bad
times. It is the responsibility of every nation to pass on this cultural legacy to the future
generations, which would be impossible if the funding tap is tuned off.
Economic benefits of arts, which the author most directly contends, are also encompassing.
From stimulating tourism to providing employment to many people directly and indirectly,
arts make a direct contribution to a nation‖s economy. Many artisans in remote locations
subsist exclusively on income derived through the sale of their art forms. If the artery
supplying money is blocked off, these artisans would be further impelled into the anathema of
poverty and wide scale unemployment would add a further burden to the already immured
economy.
However the above does not imply that government endowments should remain unaffected. It
would be more prudent in tough times to optimize the limited resources and monetary
benefits and ensure that they are allocated most effectively to benefit maximum number of
people and not a solitary subdivision of the society. Indeed this monitored and controlled
supply could act as a stimulant to spur innovation and entrepreneurship in art. The art houses
would be compelled to justify this continued funding and would be spurred on to produce art
that acts as a lifeline to the society, both tangibly and intangibly
In summary,the author seriously undermines mercenary and non mercenary benefits of art
and thus presents a case to divest government doles, however as has been highlighted art in
times of economic and political crisis serves an even greater role than in times of peace and
prosperity. It would therefore be counter productive and self-defeating to rob the arts of this
important role by denying them financial resources.
All parents should be required to volunteer time to their children‖s schools.

Tags: bullying, citizen volunteering, discipline, parent volunteer, school performance, school
volunteering, teacher effectiveness, volunteering
0
Volunteering, as a means to give back to the society, is a noble act that each responsible
denizen must do, but for parents it is more imperative still that they volunteer their time to
their children‖s schools. I am in complete accord with the author‖s proposal and would be
substantiating my position in the subsequent passages.
Research and academia are in agreement on the effects parent volunteering in schools has on
the child‖s psyche. The strong, laconic signal this simple act sends to the children is an
absolute reassurance of their parents‖ interest in their life. Children are actuated to study and
excel and research has established an irrefutable, positive correlation between students‖
performance and their parents volunteering time at their school. Research conducted in some
schools in the US reported that just the first time volunteering by parents resulted in a 30%
increase in the performance of their student at school. A positive impact was also seen on
egregious behaviors and acts of bullying or harassment showed a marked reduction.
The benefits of a parent being involved in the school, though, extend beyond the tangible gain
of improved grades. It provides an opportunity to parents to be more directly involved in the
learning process of their children. By interacting with faculty and other students, parents can
imbibe a deeper understanding of the methodologies and curriculum and a heightened
sensitivity to the areas in which their wards are lacking, which can be bolstered through
additional focus at home. It also presents parents an opportunity to view as an outsider the
talents of their children, which might not manifest in the home environment.
The skill and individual experience of each parent act as a bulwark to reinforce the
capabilities of the school. A parent with a background in finance and accounting, for instance,
can support the school by introducing more effective ways of fund raising and management
and directing the increased savings back into bettering the infrastructure or other activities
which would in turn benefit their own children as well as their peers. This would also provide
a relief to teachers‖ and instead of spending time in administrative work that they are ill
equipped to do, they can focus their energy on teaching and concentrating on individual
needs of their students.
In conclusion, parent volunteering can be seen as a panacea for many ills. It opens up
channels of communication between parent and teacher and parent and child and positively
reinforces performance and learning both at home and in the school. Schools benefit from the
professional skills and experience of the parents and can provide a more wholesome and
enriching experience to the children.
Colleges and universities should require their students to spend at least one semester studying
in a foreign country.
Tags: Amanda Knox, exchange program, exchange student, international
program,international study, mandatory exchange, study abroad, undergraduate
0
The author makes an unqualified assertion requiring all universties to mandate a semester of
study abroad for their students. While the advantages of studying abroad are evidenced by
their effect on myriad aspects, the inflexible stand of the author must be contended. A variety
of implications must be considered before the debate can be substantiated.
At the outset, merits of studying abroad must be enlisted. Cultural amalgamations, increased
tolerance and empathy for those less privileged are some benefits towards the end of
promoting humanitarianism in a globalized world. For the student the advantages range from
enriching experience and friendships in the short term, to bettered job prospects and opening
up of new horizons in the long term. Educational institutes also stand to benefit when the
experience of each student serve to make the learning process richer for all and additionally
through the adoption of best practices from different countries.
While the above are strong arguments that strengthen the case for studying abroad, it should
also be taken into account that studying abroad entails a cost. Living expenses, travel expenses
and tuition expenses would pose an increased burden on students with poor economic means.
For the nation this cost could be a less tangible manifestation in the form of opportunity cost
in case the student decides to move permanently to the country and contribute directly to that
economy instead. The option that the first cost be defrayed by university would make this an
expensive proposition even for the wealthiest universities in the world.
The other severe implication was recently highlighted in media in a high profile trial. The case
of Amanda Knox brings to front two critical aspects. First of these is the effect of freedom,
independence and falling into bad company which could likely lead the student astray and
result in severe negative repercussions. The second is the backlash of being caught in legal
entangles in a foreign country whose laws are unknown. These are larger imports than the
cost one and could mar the students‖ prospects in the long term.
There are additional softer aspects that would also have a bearing on the success of a
mandatory study abroad program. Psychologists would vouch for the fact that making
anything mandatory results in lessening the appeal of the proposed activity. The task becomes
a chore and is seen as a necessary devil devaluing the benefit to be derived from it. A
compulsory program would also add to the burden of a student especially in case of majors
where not much benefit is to be derived from studying abroad. For instance in the field of law,
the rules of each land differ markedly from one another and little or no direct learning would
be derived.
In closing, the merits and demerits of studying abroad need to be weighed carefully before it
can be mandated upon the students. From psychological implications to increased financial
burden and indelibly negative imprint on the students‖ minds, the consequences are disparate
and critical and weaken the author‖s proposition.
Some people believe that government officials must carry out the will of the people they serve.
Others believe that officials should base their decisions on their own judgment.
Tags: Abraham Lincoln, authority, autocracy, democracy, for the people, government
officials,judgment, liberty, role of government, will of people
1
The debate raised is essentially one of authority vs. liberty and I would contend that the debate
is far too complex for a single answer to hold true in all situations. Assaying the scenario and
debating what represents the larger good would best settle the dichotomy. The government in
all cases must work FOR people, not necessarily AS PER the people.
In ancient times, a single ruler or monarch governed the state working almost exclusively
based on his own judgments, rather than the will of the people. The authority was derived
from inheritance or quest and in order to protect this authority it was necessary that all revolt
or dissatisfaction was quelled. While this power could be dangerous, it also helped protect the
interests of the weaker sections of the population as there was an all powerful authority to
keep the other stronger powers in check. History is replete with examples of nations who
made significant progress under the rule of honest, upright and visionary leaders.
judgment on the behalf of the people. At the same time, there are in-built mechanisms that
contain a rampant misuse of this power. However, there are atleast two instances where it
would be necessitated that the elected representatives rely on their moral and ethical
judgment – 1) when the decision is not unanimously supported by all sections of the
population and 2) when the decision has long term implications.
compulsion to oppose slavery. He faced stiff resistance from his white compatriots and general
environmental causes.
As mentioned earlier, there are mechanisms to check that elected representatives are not
abusing power. These take the form of revolt in an authoritarian regime, as witnessed in the
Arab Spring, and franchisee power in a democracy where a self-serving government would
be voted out of power. These systems place necessary controls and ensure that the government
is working as per the will of the people.
In summary, there are merits to both sides of the argument. In certain situations the
government is at a vantage to take decisions for the larger good. In other, the government
must necessarily work as per the demands of the populace to maintain its own continuity.
Claim: Any piece of information referred to as a fact should be mistrusted, since it may well be
proven false in the future. Reason: Much of the information that people assume is factual
actually turns out to be inaccurate.
Tags: accuracy, facts, predefined outcomes, research, scientific rigor, scientific study
0
Outcomes in most cases, especially in a rigorous and diligent field of study, derive from facts.
In other cases facts are conjured up based on predefined outcomes that an individual is trying
to establish. It is my assertion that the insights and conclusions derived in the former case are
seldom proven wrong. Sure, there have been scientific facts that have evolved over time, but
the basic premise on which they were formed has rarely been entirely fictitious. However, in
the latter case where conclusions are claimed to have been derived from facts, but in truth a
completely opposite process is followed, are the ones that should be viewed with a critical eye.
Such cases abound in plenty in media and day-to-day life where the import and implication
of misleading ―truths‖ is not completely considered.
While the fourth pillar of democracy has a herculean responsibility of reporting the unbiased
truth, media sensationalism and the quest for the highest TRPs have lead to a debasement of
media. Ironical as it may seem, facts are often made up and presented as undeniable truths,
often misleading and undermining people. The recent libel against a primary school teacher
in India is a perfect example of this. It was claimed on the basis of a sting operation, the merit
of which could not be denied, that the teacher was forcing her students into prostitution. After
the expose, the teacher was debarred from the education committee and subjected to immense
ridicule and a criminal trial, which later established her innocence but at the cost of slander
of her character. The author‖s assertion that facts should not be trusted is completely
applicable in this scenario.
For the sake of a concise argument, findings in a pedantic field of knowledge can be
generalized into two broad categories – one having their genesis in solid research and critical
examination and the other which are prematurely presented without a complete analysis and
verification of the facts. Needless to say that in some occasions, the latter have been
subsequently proved to be incorrect. Take for instance the cold fusion theory where nuclear
reaction was shown to occur even at room temperature. This theory lost merit when scientists
tried to replicate the experiment in their labs and the scientists were accused of exaggerating
the truth and scientifically unsound procedures.
In cases where the theory has been well tested and verified to be based on facts, examples of
such fallacies has been negligible. While these have been challenged subsequently they have
not been completely nullified. Future research could result in delineating the limits of the
theory but not completely discrediting them. Keplers‖ and Netwons‖ laws are examples of
these, which were later found to be true in certain conditions, not all. In the case of cold
fusion highlighted above, while the experiment was condemned, the theory as a whole did not
lose ground and research continues to uncover a way to achieve a nuclear reaction in non-
scientific settings.
In the last two cases highlighted above, disbelieving information just because it would
consequently be incorrect does not hold any merit in my mind. There would be no progress
and no basis of further research. Debates and discussions that enrich any view would also not
take place, immuring development in every way.
In sum, it would be correct to suspects ―facts‖ that have no logical or scientific basis. In other
cases, while facts are not incorrect, their interpretations at times might be incorrect. It is then
an error of judgment not of objective anomalies and it would be impolitic to blindly reject
these facts.
Claim: Many problems of modern society cannot be solved by laws and the legal system.
Reason: Laws cannot change what is in people‖s hearts or minds.
Tags: discipline, effectiveness of laws, guiding behavior, laws, legislation, panacea to
ills,societal ills
0
The author claims that legislation cannot affect a change in the opinions and attitude of
people and laws are not the panacea to all ills that plague our society today. While I concur
with the author when he opines that laws cannot be the solution for all problems, I disagree
with the statement that laws cannot effect a change in people‖s attitudes and beliefs and
propose that given sufficient time laws have the ability to change the ethos of a society.
Laws are only structural guidelines that delineate behavior and guarantee people their
freedom while ensuring that the rights and freedoms of others are not encroached upon. In
absence of legislation, we would be ruled by a state of anarchy and chaos with each individual
plundering and pulverizing at will and the law of the jungle where the mighty thrive and the
weaker perish, would be true for the human race as well. However while laws provide a
framework within which to operate, by themselves they do not guarantee an equitable and
just society. Laws need to be supported by a substantial deterrence for people to take them
seriously. They also require ardent supporters who would act like harbingers of change and
propel others to adopt them as well. However all these still believe that human behavior can
be predicted and thus controlled. In truth, human behavior is as much rational as irrational,
as thought-out as impulsive and as cognitive as emotional. The fact, that human behavior
cannot be restricted is evidenced from middle eastern countries where severe laws and
corporeal punishments are also incapable of casting human behavior into a mold.
Laws, over a sufficient period of time can however engineer a social change. The initial
indifference metamorphoses over a length of time into acceptable behavior and deviations are
viewed as social stigmas which replace enforcement as the deterrence to aberrant behavior.
From abolition of slavery in the US, to stigmatization of the sati practice in India, laws have
seeped into the social conscience of nations with a majority of denizens accepting them as part
of their moral conduct.
Laws have managed to reform not only how people behave but also how they think. Laws
governing science have transformed how people view their world an from an almost
exclusively religious outlook of the functions of nature, an objective and scientific rationale of
phenomena is considered. The universal law of gravitation for instance has given an objective
grounding and changed the way we cogitate.
In summary, laws have both the power to transform behavior and thinking. Laws, though, do
not work in silos and strong mechanisms both promoting desired behavior and curtailing
undesired behavior need to be implemented. However a complete of transformation of human
behavior is not possible even under the best of legislation and enforcement as the vagaries of
human mind cannot be ascertained completely.
The primary goal of technological advancement should be to increase people‖s efficiency so

that they have more leisure time.
Tags: efficiency, essence of life, goal of technology, John Stuart Mill, Karl
Marx, leisure,lifestyle, modern life, philosophy, purpose of technology, technology
0
The author, much like philosophers such as John Stuart Mill and Karl Marx, opines that the
primary objective of technological advancement should be an increase in the leisure time of
the people. While the purpose of technology as advanced by the author cannot be contended,
in reality the advent of technology has resulted in a diametrically different scenario with
leisure time being viewed from the yardstick of productivity.
According to ancient philosophers leisure meant a freedom from the routine and mechanical
lifestyle and the belief was that technology would help transform this and provide people with
free time for more creative and intellectual pursuits. As per them this free time was best
utilized in cogitating about the purpose of life and seeking to determine our own individual
desires from life, unfettering us from the established norms and adding a richness in our
activities and personalities.
While technological innovations such as the automobile and computer have helped us speed
up our activities considerably, we are much further from the ideal notion of leisure than our
ancestors. Leisure has become a pejorative and is only justified if it is adding to the amount of
work one is doing. Working holidays have replaced holidays, and thanks to smart phones and
connectivity people are expected to be available at all times. While in medieval times too
people worked from morning to evening, work was more causal and people took off time for
social chats and interactions. However in today‖s age, sophisticated technology like access
cards and employee logs are employed to monitor employee activities and to ensure that time
is productively invested.
To take a slightly tangential view, proliferation of media technologies has also impacted the
leisure time people take out for themselves and their families. Stories of the rich and successful
having 20 hour days with each minute being invested in work related activities, mails and
texts from colleagues late into the night or in the wee hours of the morning, global alliances
which require people from all parts of the world to work according to the time of the client;
have all created a sense of insecurity amongst people. Today we are not only expected to be
available, but ourselves wish to be available at all times in order not to be left behind. It is also
doubtable whether these changes have lead to an increase in efficiency, with more and more
people having anxiety and stress related issues.
To summarize, while the function of technology should no doubt be an increase in leisure

time which could help us enrichen our lives, in truth technology has lead us further away
from this end.
Educators should base their assessment of students‖ learning not on students‖ grasp of facts but
on the ability to explain the ideas, trends, and concepts that those facts illustrate.
Tags: analysis, application of ideas, assessment, bloom's taxonomy, evaluation, factual
knowledge, higher learning levels, rote learning, rote memorization
0
The proposal of the author that learning or knowledge of concepts should form the basis of
assessment instead of the ability to memorize and reproduce facts is one that I am in complete
accord with. In the subsequent paragraphs I would try to bolster this conclusion by providing
supporting arguments with an objective of unequivocally proving the merit of the position.
It would be useful to assess the argument by evaluating why an unjustifiably high dependence
on rote learning has come to be. The reasons can be traced back to the facts that: such
competencies are the easiest to measure and grade, teachers are not competent or have little or
no incentive to promote understanding of a particular topic and lastly, there is a demand for
such abilities by higher schools of learning and employers.
The foremost reason why factual knowledge and by extension grades, have come to occupy a
high pedestal in pedantic instruction is because these are easy to evaluate. Knowledge of a fact
can be either black or white, there is no grey area confounding assessors. With the advent of
standardized assessment tools that help ascertain learning levels on a common platform, it is
also interesting to note that these lower levels of information are mostly easily rendered into
items. According to Bloom‖s taxonomy, learning levels range from remembering to creating. It
is then unfortunate to note that convenience has become a primary reason is restricting the
perimeter of our vision to the bottom two learning levels. Creativity is not encouraged, instead
is severely browbeaten overlooking the critical ability of the student to apply his instruction in
being able to think afresh to solve problems that would confront him.
The second alarming reality is that a large number of educators today are ill equipped to
explain concepts and ideas, linking them to real life scenarios that would foster learning. This
is a large concern facing policy makers all over the world, and especially in developing
countries, where teaching is viewed as a fall back career option for those who fail to secure
employment in any other field. Such teachers are not only unqualified, but also have no
motivation to aspire for or transmit a love for learning to their pupils. Students graduating
from such institutions would flounder in the global arena. They would be unable to compete
with their counterparts in other countries and would lack any real analytical and logical
abilities, impeding the progress of themselves and their countries.
Another reason often cited in defense of the current educational system hemmed by rote
learning, is that grades provide an objective platform enabling anyone interested to quickly
interpret the competence of a particular candidate against hundreds of other competing ones,
whereas subjective parameters are less qualified to provide such comparisons.Graduate
schools and employers both place a high importance on a ―pedigree‖ of intellect. A prospective
candidate or employee is considered to be a safe investment if she has displayed excellence all
throughout her academic career. Proponents of the fact based or grade based (as can be
interchangeably used) system would argue that factual knowledge and learning are not
mutually exclusive sets. In fact, research has explicitly highlighted that this is indeed the case.
Because the current assessment system primarily tests for factual knowledge a child is forced
to choose where to apply his cognitive functions. As a result deciding on the candidature of an
individual based on his scores is somewhat counterproductive. Real life examples of school
and college dropouts like Mark Zuckerberg, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates would hold a testimony to
this argument.
In conclusion, it has been highlighted that all justifications provided in defense of a factual
approach to education are baseless and severely impede excellence. The effects of this are felt
not by the individual alone, but also by educational institutes, employers and the nation as a
whole. It is therefore necessary to understand the real purpose of education and reorient
ourselves to make understanding and not memorization the crux of education.
Unfortunately, in contemporary society, creating an appealing image has become more

important than the reality or truth behind that image.
Tags: appeal, beautiful people syndrome, beauty myth, good vs bad, senses, substance
1
The author laments the superficial nature of society today, where the projected image has
taken precedence over actual image. To my mind, an appealing image by itself is not a sin,
while in some cases complete truth cannot be considered to be a virtue either.
Humans have various facets to their personality, with good and evil existing simultaneously.
This struggle of the good over the evil and the ability to suppress the latter is what makes a
person great. While some iconic figures of history like Mahatma Gandhi have been candid
about this struggle, publishing them as ―My experiments with truth‖, others have been more
covert about these shortcomings. Martin Luther King Jr. for instance had a licentious
personality and it can be argued that suppressing this image was beneficial for the civil rights
movement. The importance given to family and religious ties by African Americans would
have prevented King from becoming the messiah of the suffering populace and in his stead
alternative leaders such as Malcolm X would have taken charge. The violent and aggressive
nature of Malcolm X would have lead to a bloody movement instead of the largely peaceful
one that it was under the aegis of King.
Even today fruits and vegetables that look most agreeable are picked out for consumption. The
predator ascertains its quarry by visually analyzing them. Our sense of sight, more than the
others, determines our choices. Attraction and appeal is akin to healthy and wholesome and is
nature‖s way of ensuring that the best genes are transferred. A person might be the most
virtuous person but if these virtues do not reflect in his behavior and image, he would be little
liked by his contemporaries and peers. Gautam Buddha believed that the worth of human
beings reflected in his actions. An appealing image is what would draw the people towards a
thing and as a concept is best understood by the advertising and marketing industry. Apple
products were first noted for their distinctive colors and aesthetics; Mona Lisa‖s popularity
was largely due to its arresting nature. A seductive image then is not necessarily bad.
It is also true that an appealing image by itself can be misleading. The beautiful people
syndrome is a classical case that has lead to a cross section of people developing complexes
about their looks and in some extreme cases death. On the other hand, appearances solely
cannot sustain interest. Be it a person, a product or a piece of art, for its popularity to be
enduring its inherent merits would determine its worth. Bill Clinton and Tiger Woods both fell
from grace when their sexual scandals were discovered;Windows Vista was an epic failure
despite a strong legacy behind it. The value of The Mona Lisa on the other hand has only
grown over the years with art evaluators enthralled by the techniques Da Vinci used in his
masterpiece.
In summary, it has also been established that there are merits to both concealing the complete
truth and promoting an appealing image. While the author is justified in his worries
concerning a half-truth, it is reassuring to note that merit is ultimately judged on the actual
image, not the marketed image.
The effectiveness of a country‖s leaders is best measured by examining the well-being of that
country‖s citizens.
Posted: February 13, 2012 in Uncategorized
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The author avers that the litmus test for the measure of effective governance is the combined
welfare of all its denizens and I concur with the author. Traditionally, economic welfare of
nations has been used as the default variable to measure the effectiveness of its leaders. The
difficulty of measuring other aspects such as social and economic equality, physical well being
and security, civil rights and liberties granted and the extent to which they are being
exercised; has lead to nations adopting the most objective criteria for assessment i.e. economic
growth.
Economic development has the power to reduce poverty and to solve other social problems
faced by the nation. Many countries that are mired in poverty and hunger are the ones that
have amongst the lowest levels of economic growth. The importance of economic growth
showcasing the effectiveness of political leaders can then not be undermined. However,
economic growth alone does not indicate that the denizens are living in conditions conducive
for their growth and happiness. Many developing nations such as India, have a high level of
economic growth but widespread disparities and ills that plague it. Growth is often achieved
at the cost of inequality, unemployment, death of local industries and plundering of resources.
Nations whose leaders have such myopic vision cannot be classified as effective.
No doctrinaire leader has ever been regarded in the annals of history as an asset to the nation.
The image and perception of the leader are strongly correlated with the changes he or she has
effected for its general populace, for the struggles he or she has pioneered on behalf of the
citizens. The examples of Abraham Lincoln and Nelson Mandela on the one hand and those of
Saddam Hussein and MunnamarGadaffi on the other are testaments to this. In early 1980s,
Libya had a higher per capita income than even some developed economies and even the
highest HDI in Africa as stated by the UN, however the lack of freedom and stringent
surveillance under which the Libyans lived can by no stretch of the imagination be classified
as well-being, nor can Gadaffi be called an effective leader.
For overall well being of the people, it is imperative that freedom of speech and expression
and the right to equal opportunity and non-discrimination are protected. In the absence of
these civil liberties, thought and ideologies cannot thrive. It is also crucial to note the progress
being made by the citizens in various spheres of life. These provide a good measure of the
growth and progress of all. For instance, artists cannot thrive in a restricted or restrained
environment. Freedom of thought and expression and secular values are necessary for art to
flourish. These same conditions are also crucial for each individual to thrive. The
achievements of people in their respective fields then becomes a yardstick to measure whether
the government is tolerant of incipient ideas, and whether means in terms of financial and
infrastructural support are available.
In conclusion, the efficacy of a leader undeniably rests on the well being of the citizens. This
well being is most holisitically measured when economic, social and civil aspects are taken
into consideration. Only a leader who succeeds in ensuring all these in balanced quantities to
its citizens, would be regarded as a stellar leader.
Although innovations such as video, computers, and the Internet seem to offer schools
improved methods for instructing students, these technologies all too often distract from
real learning.
1
The author extends the view that while technological innovations in the field of education has
its merits these technologies can shift the students‖ attention from the process of learning and
instead become the cynosure. The argument purported by the author is an interesting one and
in the final analysis the decision to use technological aids in learning would need to be based
on a relative evaluation of pros and cons.
Research on the implication of using iPads in schooling, by an Ohio Univeristy teacher has
lead to findings that reading and writing levels are directly correlated with usage of iPads. The
mobility offered by iPads and the myriad applications that serve as ready references whenever
a problem presents itself would act as two primary differences that establish it as a superior
learning mechanism. In an example of practically working with the iPad, the professor gave
his students 10 minutes to make as many real words as possible. The children were surprised
and curious when they learnt that a lot of words they thought they had made up were actual
words. This actuated them to refer to the meanings, implying that in the long run these words
would tend to stay with them far longer since the search process was initiated by the students
themselves and not forced by the instructor.
Interactive learning aids in education are extremely valuable tools that can be exploited to
teach concepts that are better explained dynamically. For instance concepts of changing
market conditions affecting demand and supply and how their interplay helps determine
prices in a free market can be explained most effectively by taking real life situations and
demonstrating the vagaries. Urban Science, a simulation game developed around redesigning
the city of Wisconsin, Madison gives students a more practical exposure to real life cases and
lets them experiment with their decisions and learn from the resultant impact. Such learning
cannot be afforded in real life and the process of trial and error is not accorded the same
leeway as in a simulation game. These lessons then are invaluable and are the best training
grounds for developing a creative, solution oriented outlook.
Examples of benefits of technology can be seen across the spectrum in education: from junior
school to graduate school, from tools of learning to tools of assessment. Their adoption,
however, does not suggest that educators are as yet convinced of them being panaceas of ills
plaguing education. A primary concern is that with these technologies it would be difficult to
adjudge whether students are spending more time because they are enhancing learning or
because the students are fascinated by the technology per se. This concern, in my opinion, is
subverted on two counts 1) while an initial curiosity and fascination with the technology
would no doubt cause attention to be focused away from learning, this novelty would soon
wear off for children and 2) these technologies shift the balance of power from the teacher to
the student. The student develops an interest and a desire to learn which is of his own free
choosing – they can now learn whenever they want, determine the depth to which they want
to explore a topic and how frequently they feel the need to go back to a topic.
In light of the above points, one can conclude that modern tools of learning are essential
assistants that each educator must employ in order to create a more conducive learning
environment for the pupils and the benefits derived from these aids far outweigh the initial
temporary distraction they are likely to result in.
The best ideas arise from a passionate interest in commonplace things.

0
Nature in its very genesis holds answers to a lot of the conundrums facing humanity and our
daily lives and fields of study mimic these natural phenomena to a large extent. Inventors,
engineers, artists and even lay people have always been looking to nature for inspiration right
from prehistoric times. Be it hunting, shelter or survival – our ancestors learnt these essential
skills to a large extent by observing animals and trying best to replicate the tools Mother
Nature had innately endowed to these species. Man learnt to keep warm by wearing the skin
of a wooly animal; he developed sharp weapons that could resemble the claws of predatory
animals. While it might not be incorrect to say that all the answers to the problems facing
mankind are already available in prosaic things, it takes an analytical and observant mind to
imitate these models.
In fact, the art of studying a biological entity is a niche field of study within itself known as
biomimetics. Some of these inventions have become so intrinsic to our lives, that we fail to be
fascinated with them. The Velcro for instance, has evolved from the barb like elements in
burrs that cause it to attach itself to things that come in contact with it. The hypodermic
needle has been modeled on rattlesnake fangs. Other technologies are most awe inspiring, the
sheer genius of the idea leaving us spell bound. Scientists and doctors were faced with a
unique dilemma – treating cancer cells and at the same time minimizing harmful side effects
of existing treatments. By noticing the structures and functioning of viruses, they are now
much closer to achieving this end and developing nanoparticles that can seek out the
egregious cells and treating them while leaving the healthy cells unaffected.
These germane ideas are not restricted to the field of science alone, but are actuating stalwarts
in each arena of life. Architects have been able to design a cost effective way of building
energy efficient buildings that have their origins in the self-cooling designs of termite
colonies.
Nature has not failed to cast its spell on the artist and common people either. The practice of
mimicking natural sounds and especially animal calls has provided important sustenance to
certain tribes. Sophisticated and melodious instruments have been developed from natural
elements. The JalTarang is one of the most prominent and ancient instruments belonging to
the wave-category of instruments, which produces pleasing natural sounds and is used in
healing and relaxation. Beethoven‖s sixth symphony was primarily influenced by sounds he
heard during his walks in the countryside. Robert Frost, the celebrated poet also drew several
similes from nature.
To recount from an earlier mentioned qualification, it takes a keenly perceptive mind to read
these patters and phenomena and extrapolating them into workable solutions. To most of us
nature has become a blind spot and we fail to appreciate or learn from its wondrous elements.
In this regard, I would concur with the author that it takes passion and persistence to turn the
mundane into the extraordinary. It must also be clarified that not all ideas have their genesis
in natural occurrences and some are painstakingly developed through other procedures and
practises.
To sum up then, it takes a cutter to know the real worth of the diamond. Similarly it takes a
superior mind to be conversant with the incredible wealth of knowledge that has evolved in
nature over millions of years and replicating these to impact our lives in incredible ways.
To be an effective leader, a public official must maintain the highest ethical and
moral standards.
0
The author asserts that effective leadership pre-necessitates ethical and moral conformity, in
addition the leader should have high standards of internal precepts. I concur with the author
and believe that while values and ethics are paramount by themselves, these standards have
become even more crucial given the rising power of media. Leaders are expected to be ethical
not just in their official dealings, but must also set exemplary standards in their personal lives.
Opponents of the above outlook would contend that virtuosity is an inherent quality and a
rare commodity in today‖s age this, demanding public officials to consistently maintain such
high standards would then be unrealistic. Philosophers of the likes of Aristotle and Kant have
argued otherwise, maintaining that while humans are not innately virtuous, regular practice
can lead to probity. It is an ability that one develops just like musical or cognitive ability.
Given this context, making public officials accountable to uphold moral and ethical principles
becomes imperative. Over time these values would become imbued in the genesis of the
individual and guide his behavior in all aspects, making him better poised to understand and
impartially adjudicate matters. Empathy, fairness and objectively taking decisions are the
foremost qualities of an effective leader.
Public officials are elected by the people to run critical offices on their behalf. Abuse of this
power and good faith of the people would be detrimental for the people, the nation and the
public official himself. Corruption and nepotism arethe biggest anathemas of misusing
authority and using the power of the office for personal gain. Both of these severely immure
economic and social development and create wide economic disparities that become hard to
bridge. Nations fail to grow at the pace that they can and power gets concentrated in the
hands of the few who further misuse it, creating a vicious circle that is hard to break. Such
officials can best be described as autocrats, not leaders. A leader works for the good of the
people and the society, he is driven by long-term vision and not transitory gain; to be able to
resist the temptation of the present and work selflessly for the unforeseeable future requires
one to have unshakable values and beliefs. Abraham Lincoln‖s vociferous condemnation of
slavery and his deep ethical values, today make him one of the greatest American presidents.
There is also a debate on where do the boundaries of this moral conduct terminate. Do they
cross over from the office into the private life of the official? I believe the answer to the above
is yes if these issues have a bearing on public interest. For the benefit of the individual, he
must not come across as hypocritical preaching one thing in his words and practicing quite
another in deeds. Given the intense media scrutiny of public officials, it is imperative that they
do display a duality in their standards. While the private affairs of people are nobody‖s
business, we are all aware that Bill Clinton‖s escapades severely affected his popularity and in
some ways overshadowed all the work he had done. Trust of the people is of utmost
importance for a leader to effectively dispense his duties; once this trust is broken it is hard to
regain. Ethics then become an accountability standard by which the work of the official would
be evaluated.
To recapitulate, uprightness and probity are essential elements in the arsenal of a leader.
Without consistent standards in public and private life, the individual would be a burden to
the nation, not an exemplary leader.
Critical judgment of work in any given field has little value unless it comes from someone
who is an expert in that field.
0
The author asserts that the value of a judgment is derived solely based on the credentials of the
critic as a subject matter expert. I am not in complete concurrence of this unequivocal
assertion of the author and believe that maximum value is derived from an openness to
feedback and an ability to balance dissenting view points whether from an expert in the field
of the laity.
The value of expert opinion is most evidenced in technical fields of study. Unless one knows
the intricacies of the knowledge amasses by the field, it would be presumptuous to provide
feedback and the inputs in all likelihood would be mere rhetoric. However this does not
underscore the value that can be gained by integrating knowledge from other fields of study.
To illustrate, if an alternate source of energy is being evaluated, biochemists and
biotechnologists would be best posed to critique the technical aspects, however an ecologist or
environmentalist could provide significant implications of the use of the proposed new
technology that the scientist might have failed to consider.
In some non technical fields, higher merit can be gained from an outsiders perspective. In the
field of art and movies, the end user might be accoutered to review the product from the point
of view of the layman. A movie, for instance, could be technically sound but fail to connect
with the audience in which case the review by a member of the film fraternity would provide
misleading information to the consumers and additionally be a wrong measure as a predictor
of the movie‖s success.
Additionally, those associated with the field, might have vested interests in both forwarding
and denouncing the work of their colleagues. In the sphere of politics, both the riling party
and the opposition would have vested interest in debunking dissent against corruption and
red tapism. Since both parties view themselves as beneficiaries, it is likely that they would
form a cartel to quell the voices of those opposing the proposal.
At times a close association with a field of study forbears looking at the situation form a
holistic perspective. The experts becomes immured but their past knowledge and learning and
the gain derived from looking at the problem from a fresh perspective is frittered. A financial
expert, though well intentioned, might be encumbered b the traditional way of doing things
resulting in an oversight of incremental gains that are to be derived from reinventing the
processes. A fresh college graduate with an unbiased perspective could add the spark that this
more mature and experienced senior has slighted.
In conclusion, an openness to ideas and a desire to integrate views of myriad stalwarts and
novices, both within and outside the field, would provide the ideal impetus for advancing a
field.
Some people believe that scientific discoveries have given us a much better understanding of
the world around us. Others believe that science has revealed to us that the world is infinitely
more complex than we ever realized.
1
In the argument, the author raises two counter viewpoints to the study of science with one
proposing that science has helped us answer questions and the other contending that science
has actually raised more questions than it has answered. The two views seem to run parallel to
each other with their inherent beliefs being so vagrant as to have little scope of intersection,
however it is this converge that I wish to support and would be using examples from various
fields of science to bolster my argument.
As human beings become older, their questions about various aspects of their life are not
quenched but merely altered or evolved. Questions such as “if the earth is round why does
water not fall off?” that perplex a kid are no longer pondered upon by adults as their
understanding of the theory of gravitation provides a lucid explanation for this conundrum.
However as the person becomes older, more existential questions enamor him and his
cognitive functions become engaged in answering those. The same is true for science as well.
Today we are more conversant about matter and its workings in governing how the world
functions, than our ancestors and from an absolute dependence on nature we can today
predict earthquakes to ensure that minimum damage to human life and property is suffered.
However despite the advances in science and voyages to outer space, scientists are still in a
quandary over the elements of the universe and over 96% of these components comprising of
dark matter and dark energy are unbeknownst to us. The implications of this could change
everything we know of thus far, from our perspective of physics to the study of astronomy and
the perpetual deliberations on Armageddon that besot us.
Science has also opened up several possibilities which have more direct bearing on humans
than the question of when the world would end. Progress in the field of investigative sciences
have impelled us closer to meting out a somewhat ―divine‖ form of justice with the guilty now
having higher likelihood of getting persecuted and an innocent higher acclivity of getting
absolved. The case against Bruce Ivins, the accused in the anthrax letter attacks highlights the
power of science to acquit even a deceased person wrongly implicated. On the other hand
debate surrounding the acquittal of Amanda Knox have raised questions regarding the
excessive reliance on science, the workings of the human mind involved in such heinous
crimes and the psychology of the jury who has been accused of being dispensed towards the
accused because of her looks.
As famously said, “change is the only constant”. The world is constantly evolving and our
changing interactions with this dynamic world create more flux. Theories which were earlier
believed to be true, have been disproved now and more complex questions have taken their
stead. In psychology, for instance, it was believed that our behavior was exclusively
determined by our experiences and memories and this theory was accepted until very
recently. For someone wanting to control the behavior of his or her child this presented a
controlled scientific experiment. But the knowledge of genetics and the interplay of genes in
determining aspects of personality have added a new dimension to this equation making it less
controlled.
These dualities can be witnessed in every aspect of science and the questions about every
aspect of our life abound perhaps because we are more enlightened today. As the world
evolves the questions and answers to those questions also need to undergo transformation, the
quest for perfect enlightenment is akin to the quest for the holy grail, it is something we aspire
for but in reality it could just be a myth.
When old buildings stand on ground that modern planners feel could be better used for
modern purposes, modern development should be given precedence over the preservation of
historic buildings.
0
The author in the statement implies that in a face-off between urban development and
historical preservation, urban development should take precedence. Tearing down of these
historical relics would be justified if the same land can be utilized to serve the needs of the
modern society. There argument is rife with several assumptions and unless these are
explored, the debate cannot be completely settled. While the author no doubt believes that the
solution of replacing old buildings with modern ones is a more practical one, a well defined
policy necessitates a more holistic view to ensure that the policy accords with reasons of the
majority.
The foremost assumption implicit in the statement is that there is a paucity of land and other
areas cannot be utilized for requirements as the modern planners intend. While it is true that
with increasing population and immigration has resulted in higher infrastructural demands,
it is also true that that vast areas in any major world city are poorly planned. If these
unorganized areas were to be restructured then the land could be better utilized and historical
architecture would not need to be demolished. It is also possible to extend the official limits of
a city to accommodate the demands of urban migration. Both these alternate solutions need to
be considered before the more drastic step as proposed by the author.
The authors view also belies an outlook that regards historical buildings and architecture as
having little more than aesthetical value. This outlook however is a very narrow one and it
undervalues the importance of historical buildings from an economic, pedantic and cultural
aspect. Historical buildings are thriving hubs of economic activity and attract a large number
of tourists from across the world, contributing the nations GDP. The economic gains are not
limited to ticket sales, but its value is derived also from the employment it provides to a large
number of ancillary services. Additionally these ancestral heritages are gold mines of learning
to a large cross section of people, from children to architects and history aficionados. In their
absentia, we would feel a cultural void and cities would become little more than concrete
jungles with dispassionate modern architecture. These other uses of historical buildings are so
important in fact that UNESCO has designated many sites as world heritage and any alteration
to these by any human acitivity is not permissible.
The third assumption is that the requirements of modern planners preclude any means of co-
existence and it is only in the absence of one that the other can proliferate. Many heritage sites
however serve the needs of the modern society be it commercial or residential. Connaught
place in New Delhi, India, for instance is a large commercial as well as residential hub. At the
same time the supreme court‖s ruling ensures that the buildings are preserved and no changes
to the façade is made.
In light of the above arguments, it has been established that there is no justifiable reason to
replace old buildings with new ones. The solution to the needs of the modern man need to be
looked elsewhere and not on the legacy of our ancestors.
The best way for a society to prepare its young people for leadership in government, industry,
or other fields is by instilling in them a sense of cooperation, not competition.
1
The debate raised in the argument that of competition vs. collaboration is as old as human life
itself. According to Charles Darwin, evolution was a struggle, a competition amongst species
and genes and only the strongest survived. This indicates that competition is inherent in our
nature and the very reason for our existence today. In an article published in the Harvard
Business Review an argument was extended that as the world becomes increasingly complex,
learning how NOT to compete would be the litmus test for ensuring success. I would be
examining both sides of the argument and presenting the final analysis in the conclusion.
All life forms are in a constant struggle with their environment and their chance of survival is
directly and highly correlated with pushing the strong over the weak. When the predator
attacks the prey, it is a lone struggle for each member of the species, and the foremost thought
is to ensure personal safety. As per the selfish herd theory, each member is concerned with
getting to the centre of the group so that his own safety is ensured. Competition then can be
viewed as an in-built mechanism in each species and an inclination that is hard to counter.
Indeed, evolution negates the need to overcome this tendency of the selfish gene and
encourages severe competition. The same then is true also for leaders and each field, each
government and each business in order to ensure its survival must compete with others,
optimizing on its strengths and maximizing on their effectiveness.
In technical fields as well, promoting competition can be the fastest and most effective route to
solving conundrums faced by humanity. Competition in this context ensures that the stalwarts
in each field are recognized and appreciated, which would serve as impetus for excelling
further. Given the paucity of resources and the importance of the problems, our interest
would be accelerated if the intelligentsia from the field are involved in problem solving. While
with collaboration too the solutions would likely be arrived at, competition implies that speed
and dexterity take precedence over cooperative brainstorming. History is replete with
examples of individual contributors to each field who perhaps were able to best exploit their
genius in isolation from others.
Research conducted on trying to find an answer to this debate, has however revealed insights
that competition serves to expend our energies which could otherwise be used more
productively on focusing at the task on hand. Studies mapping cognitive processes to brain
functions have pointed out that excelling in an endeavor and competing with others are two
distinct processes which would reduce efficiency if attempted in conjunction. It has also been
indicated that there are harmful health effects of competition and instead groups that work in
collaboration are happier, relaxed and more in control over their circumstances. No doubt
healthy physical and mental processes would have an exponential effect on performance. If
leaders then are to work in the interest of their field, bypassing personal actuations of fame
and recognition, they need to learn to work in harmony with each other, play on the strengths
of others and cogitate answers in discussions with their peers.
Unrestrained competition, in contrast to popular belief, actually divests focus from the
common goal and each individual is motivated solely by personal gains. This mindset is
deleterious in every scenario and the synergies and economies that could be exploited are
frittered away in exhibitions of one-upmanship. For instance, the environmental department
and the trade and commerce department in any government ministry and usually at cross
purposes with each other. Environmental concerns are often seen as impediments in industrial
growth and development, with each department accusing the other of not being sensitive to
their views. However for the larger good of the nation, is it imperative that these ministries do
not see themselves as independent silos but instead find a way of working together that would
serve to provide livelihood to millions of citizens in an environmentally responsible way.
In conclusion, I would tend to agree with the outlook presented in HBR and believe that in the
coming century human advancement would be in direct proportion to our ability to work
together with others, empathize and solve problems keeping in mind a macro view. The prey
would be able to better defend its turf; the experts would be able to arrive at solutions that are
bolstered by taking into consideration myriad views. Competition driven by narrow self
serving interests has been the accepted way of progress thus far and might be more alluring in
the short run, but would have severe implications in the long run.
96) In most professions and academic fields, imagination is more important than knowledge.
0
Albert Einstein‖s view on imagination is often quoted, “ ….Knowledge is limited. Imagination
encircles the world.” According to Einstein, imagination is a limitless reservoir from which we
can draw forth freely, whereas knowledge even in a genius like Einstein himself is a limited
resource. At the risk of contradicting Einstein, I believe the argument merits further discussion
to ascertain the relationship between imagination and knowledge.
What if the capacity to imagine differed in different people? What if this capacity was actually
dependent on the knowledge of the individual? The debate would then shift from being one of
mutual exclusivity to a symbiotic one. This is indeed the case; research has indicated that
people with a higher intelligence have more active and colorful imaginations than those with
average or lower intelligence. Imagination doesn‖t arise in silos or from a vacuum, it draws
forth from our past experiences and information which are stored in the memory as
knowledge. This is evidenced in human life – leave n infant alone with a bottle of milk, its
imagination would not impel him drink milk from the bottle when it feels hungry (though his
survival instinct might), but as he grows older his knowledge would become the catalyst for
the action. In the case of Pavlov‖s dog, it was not imagination that caused it to salivate at the
sound of the bell, but knowledge based on past learning which established a correlation in its
mind between the sound of the bell and the promise of its hunger being satiated.
It cannot be disputed that imagination serves the basis of innovation. Had Steve Jobs not
envisioned a device that was not fixated in factory settings but could dynamically become
more efficient as it operated, drawing forth from crowd sourcing, the iPhone would not have
become manifest. Indeed market research in this regard would have failed to envisage the
possible of such a devide since users based on their knowledge of available devices and
technology would not have been able to conceive this innovation. However, simply having
imagined the gadget would not have been of much benefit either, in absence of knowledge of
how to develop the product the imagination would at best just have been an idea, a very
interesting one but with no practical application. One needs to also stop and consider why
Jobs was the most likely candidate to come up with this path breaking innovation.
In the real life scenario, the relative importance of imagination and knowledge is not fixated
but is fluidly determined by the state of the market. In an economically and politically
unstable market, when people from all fields of study are les inclined to take risks, it is
knowledge that takes precedence over imagination. It is no coincidence that the more
developed and stable nations are the breeding grounds for a majority of the innovations. These
nations provide stability that enables an individual to focus his attention away from the
demands of providing for daily existence, for which he relies almost exclusively on his
knowledge, and frees up cognitive functions that can be diverted to more creative pursuits.
Lastly imagination devoid of the boundaries of knowledge nurturing it, runs the risk of
becoming a vagary of the mind. Unrestrained imagination and incessant dwelling on an idea
or illusion of the mind can develop into delusion and a mental imbalance. People lose control
of their neurotic functions and can develop ailments like dementia and schizophrenia.
Knowledge of realties and evaluation of these thoughts against past information to ascertain
possibilities is what helps contain these thoughts.
In conclusion, the answer to the debate stirred by the author is not preclusion or relative merit
of one over another, but an interdependent relationship in which both are correlated,
resulting in the most efficient state where the whole is greater than a sum of its parts.
Some people argue that successful leaders in government, industry, or other fields must be
highly competitive. Other people claim that in order to be successful, a leader must be willing
and able to cooperate with others.
0
The debate raised in the argument is fundamentally one of competition vs. collaboration. The
genesis of this argument is as old as human life itself. According to Charles Darwin, evolution
was a struggle, a competition amongst species and genes and only the strongest survived. This
indicates that competition is inherent in our nature and the very reason for our existence
today. However the importance of community living, with its foundation on collaboration,
must not be undermined. In prehistoric times raising offspring‖s was a largely communal
exercise. In an article published in the Harvard Business Review Ron Ashkenas, extends the
argument that as the world becomes increasingly complex, learning how NOT to compete
would be the litmus test for ensuring success. I would be examining both sides of the
argument and presenting the final analysis in the conclusion.
All life forms are in a constant struggle with their environment and their chance of survival is
directly and highly correlated with pushing the strong over the weak. When the predator
attacks the prey, it is a lone struggle for each member of the species, and the foremost though
is to ensure personal safety. The selfish herd theory extended by W.D.Hamilton asserts that
while a species appears to be fleeing to safety in a pack, it is essentially driven by individual
self-interest.(or Charles darwin‖s example of the gazelle jumping high on spotting a predator
which appears as an unselfish behavior but in fact is a display of one‖s health so that the
predator is motivated to chance a weaker member)Competition then can be viewed as an in-
built mechanism in each species and an inclination that is hard to counter. Indeed, evolution
negates the need to overcome this tendency of the selfish gene and encourages severe
competition so that the best genes are passed on. The same then is true also for leaders and
each field, each government and each business in order to ensure its survival must compete
with others, optimizing on their strengths and maximizing on their effectiveness.
In technical fields as well, promoting competition can be the fastest and most effective route to
solving conundrums faced by humanity. Competition in this context ensures that the stalwarts
in each field are recognized and appreciated, which would serve as impetus for excelling
further. Given the paucity of resources and the criticality of finding answers to pressing
problems, our interest would be accelerated if the intelligentsia from the field are involved in
problem solving. While with collaboration too the solutions would likely be arrived at, speed
and dexterity take precedence over cooperative brainstorming. History is replete with
examples of individual contributors to each field who perhaps were able to best exploit their
genius in isolation from others.
Research conducted on trying to find an answer to this debate, have however revealed insights
that competition serves to expend our energies which could otherwise be used more
productively on focusing at the task on hand. Studies mapping cognitive processes to brain
functions have pointed out that excelling in an endeavor and competing with others are two
distinct processes which would reduce efficiency if attempted in conjunction. It has also been
indicated that there are harmful health effects of competition and instead groups that work in
collaboration are happier, relaxed and more in control over their circumstances. No doubt
healthy physical and mental processes would have an exponential effect on performance. If
leaders then are to work in the interest of their field, bypassing personal actuations of fame
and recognition, they need to learn to work in harmony with each other, play on the strengths
of others and cogitate answers in discussions with their peers.
Unrestrained competition, in contrast to popular belief, actually divests focus from the
common goal and each individual is motivated solely by personal gains. This mindset is
deleterious in every scenario and the synergies and economies that could be exploited are
frittered away in exhibitions of one-upmanship. For instance, the environmental department
and the trade and commerce department in any government ministry and usually at cross
purposes with each other. Environmental concerns are often seen as impediments in industrial
growth and development, with each department accusing the other of not being sensitive to
their views. However for the larger good of the nation, is it imperative that these ministries do
not see themselves as independent silos but instead find a way of working together that would
serve to provide livelihood to millions of citizens in an environmentally responsible way.
In conclusion, I would tend to agree with Ron and believe that in the coming century human
advancement would be in direct proportion to our ability to work together with others,
empathize and solve problems keeping in mind a macro view. The prey would be able to
better defend its turf; the experts would be able to arrive at solutions that are bolstered by
taking into consideration myriad views. Competition driven by narrow self serving interests
has been the accepted way of progress thus far and might be more alluring in the short run,
but would have severe implications in the long run.
Some believe the well-being of corporations depends on the well-being of the societies and
environments in which they operate. Others believe that the only responsibility of
corporations, provided they operate within the law, is to make as much money as possible.
0
Corporations, world over are entitled the same rights as a person and therefore undeniably
are a part of society and have fundamental accountability towards the society they operate in.
However, corporations are created and organized for the purpose of maximizing returns for
stockholders. It is my assertion that corporations should single-mindedly pursue this goal,
operating within legal limits, and if contributing to the society has a direct impact on their top
line they should take up the opportunity.
The CSR debate emanated as early as the early 1900s with Dodge vs Ford Motor company
where shareholders filed a case against the promoter Henry Ford for reducing car prices in
order provide an affordable Ford for everyone as against distributing the profit as dividends.
The court upheld the view of the promoters and noted that the power of the executive or
directors cannot be used to redistribute the shareholder funds or profits for other purposes.
This ruling supports my opinion with regards to this argument under debate, primarily due to
a very simple and strong logic of conflicting objectives.
This argument essentially highlights the dichotomy a corporation functions in – the
shareholder theory vs. the stakeholder contention. Being an entity that operates within the
throes of the society, an organization has multiple stakeholders with variegated objectives –
the shareholders are interested in maximizing their wealth, employees require higher wages,
customers demand excellent products and services at reasonable prices & communities
demand that the company work for the larger interest of the society. It highly untenable for an
organization to pursue multiple objectives, especially those representing conflicting interests
such as the ones highlighted above. Even if social good is an agreed objective amongst all
stakeholders (including shareholders) there would be a conflict with stakeholders competing
for areas in which funds or resources need to be directed. The enterprise would wastefully
invest time in resolving this conflict and trying to reach a consensus, when this time would be
more efficiently utilized in taking action that would maximize profits.
Social responsibility has become a buzz word in corporate circles and certain countries
mandate the business community to invest part of their profits in taking social action. Given
this scenario, my view mirrors what is actually happening. Corporations are using this forced
investment to identify opportunities for themselves that would add to their revenues. The act is
not an altruistic one, but purely mercenary in nature. When a corporation supports the
development of a backward community by building schools and infrastructure, it is in effect
mining a new market and developing a new customer base for itself. In the case of Dodge vs.
Ford highlighted above, if Henry Ford could prove that the reduced price would lead to an
increase in sales volume, substantiating with numbers, I believe the shareholders would have
been in consonant with his view.
In summary, businesses only have the responsibility of being scrupulous and operating within
the confines of law. It is unnecessary and unwise to spend shareholder money for unprofitable
social causes. The shareholders have made an investment and are dependent on the firm to
provide them with a return. Critics of CSR who I concur with claim, “Shareholders do not hire
CEOs to be the U.N., to act like a government or to be a charity. The business of business is to
make money.” Only if CSR initiatives increase the bottom line, is implementing such initiatives
is recommended.
Claim: Researchers should not limit their investigations to only those areas in which they
expect to discover something that has an immediate, practical application. Reason: It is
impossible to predict the outcome of a line of research with any certainty.
0
The author contends that any research whose outcome is vague, should not be funded by the
government. The reasoning of the author is likely based on two points 1) such funding would
be wasteful as there might not be any clear benefits and 2) worse still, the near unqualified
freedom accorded to the scientific community could have severe implications if the research is
misused. While both the aspects on which the author basis his opinion are well intentioned,
fear of the unknown should not be reason enough to turn one‖s face away hoping that the
adversity would not strike. Another aspect the argument ignores is that of fortuitous
discoveries. At the same time it is necessitated at times that this freedom is curtailed and limits
are placed on the application of this knowledge.
The foremost, though at times covert, reason for placing controls on science is that these
expeirments are dichotomous to religious beliefs and sentiments. The belief that man is trying
to defy God, the implications of which would not be short of catastrophic, form the genesis of
the debate raised by the author. If the Wright brothers‖ flight had been placed under
restriction, citing that man is trying to defy God by going against what is natural, the world
today would have been very different and trade and commerce would not have flourished to
the extent it is today.
Genetically modified foods present an ideal platform to illustrate the debate. A major problem
is the lack of research going into this field. Many scientists are deterred from this type of
research because the results tend to be negative and difficult to publish; therefore, it is
difficult to receive financial aid. The science vs. God taboo, impact of genetically modified
drugs on nature and environment and its effects on humans are all unknowns that hinder
substantial progress in this area. However the fact that genetically modified foods could in fact
present a much needed solution to the world‖s hunger problems is not given due
consideration. Even if there were a 1% chance that genetically modified drugs could be the
anodyne for the anathema of hunger, it would be meritorious to invest in research. Similar
oppositions were successfully deflected in the case of the test tube baby, and today millions of
homosexual and heterosexual couples are indebted to this science.
Research projects are undertaken to find solutions to problems faced by humanity. The
scientific process of exploration, while monitored and controlled, is still a trial and error
method as the scientists look into unchartered territories for answers. If funding for all
equivocal researches were stopped, it wouldn‖t be wrong to assume that today we would not
have known Bakelite or Penicillin. In fact the field of Chemistry might not have been
considered as lucrative if commercial success was not exposed by the accidentally discovered
the first commercial dye.
A rather serious implication of the author‖s proposal being accepted would be that
government‖s control in science would increase manifold. Any research contrary to the
interest of government insiders would be halted under the guise that it is a wasteful area to
pursue. It would corrupt scientific integrity as investment and grants would become
conditional to whether the politicians can see vested value in the research that they could
exploit for their own personal gains. The ban of stem cell research as imposed by the Bush
administration is a case in point.
Supporters of the author‖s views would cite examples of nuclear energy and the rather gray
area surrounding its implications to argue that such research should not be funded, however
if research is curtailed we would effectively close all doors to knowing whether there is a
work around to the adverse consequences and making nuclear energy a panacea to the energy
crisis faced by the world. On the other hand, private firms motivated by profit could use
nuclear technology to develop weapons of destruction and sell them to anti social elements.
The solution to this is not to curtail development but to place tight controls on technologies
that have been proven to have negative and positive implications.
To evaluate it from another perspective, some limits on scientific research must be advanced
as a measure of protection of the interests of the society. While placing such limits can be
detrimental to human progress, it would be a precautionary measure to avoid type i/ii errors.
To highlight, in a recent legislation limits have been imposed on research carried on pregnant
women banning the administration of drugs and later inducing abortion in an attempt to
understand the implication on the fetus. Such experiments have high chances of being
misused and be a front for female feticide which is already rampant in developing economies.
In a book entitled “Our Final Hour”, Sir Martin Rees, a highly respected Cambridge professor
proposed that the potential risk of scientific experiments which have even a remote chance of
resulting in annihilation, could far outweigh advantages derived therefrom. He takes the
examples of Nanobots, which simultaneously possess the attributes of being panaceas from a
lot of medical ills and the catalysts for a complete decimation of earth. He argues that in such
cases even remote chances of one in a million need to be taken into account precisely because
the outcomes of experiments cannot be predicted. It is even more difficult to predict human
behavior and unless limits are imposed, there is high likelihood that private organizations
actuated by gain are impelled to underplay the harmful consequences.
In conclusion, it has been highlighted that there are several implications that need to be
considered before the debate of research in the unknown is settled. While in most cases any
restriction would be harmful, the final decision must be based on evaluation of the different
perspectives mentioned above. It must also be carefully debated whether the government is
more skilled to make decisions regarding research than the intelligentsia and free interplay of
market conditions.
Some people believe that our ever-increasing use of technology significantly reduces our
opportunities for human interaction. Other people believe that technology provides us with
new and better ways to communicate and connect with one another.
0
Philosophers such as John Stuart Mill and Karl Marxbelieved that the primary objective of
technology should be to increase the leisure time of the people. This increased leisure time
could be invested in social, creative and intellectual pursuits all of which have an ability to
galvanize our lives. While there is no doubt that means of communications have proliferated,
in my view the advent of technology has resulted in a reduction both in the time and quality
of our interactions. Productivity has become the yardstick to measure all our activities leaving
fewer opportunities to develop or sustain social bonds.
According to ancient philosophers leisure meant a freedom from the routine and mechanical
lifestyle and the belief was that technology would help transform this and provide people with
free time for more creative and intellectual pursuits. As per them this free time was best
utilized in cogitating and discussing about the purpose of life and seeking by ourselves and
through our interaction with others to determine our own individual desires from life,
unfettering us from the established norms and adding a richness in our activities and
personalities.
While technological innovations such as the automobile and computer have helped us speed
up our activities considerably, we are much further from the ideal notion of leisure than our
ancestors. Leisure has become a pejorative and is only justified if it is adding to the amount of
work one is doing. Working holidays have replaced holidays, and thanks to smart phones and
connectivity people are expected to be available at all times. Families are spending far lesser
time communicating with each other with each member of the household being occupied
with one or another form of technology – from computers, to laptop, to smart phones and TV.
Family values are falling apart and divorce rates are significantly going up.
While in medieval times too people worked from morning to evening, work was more causal
and people took off time for social chats and interactions. However in today‖s age,
sophisticated technology like access cards and employee logs are employed to monitor
employee activities and to ensure that time is productively invested. The bonds in earlier times
were more personal with face-to-face conversations being the norm instead of
communication largely through gadgets and software. These new mediums have lead to
dehumanizing of communication. A renowned scientist and philosopher noted that
information technology supplies communication canned or frozen and can in no way match
the art of dialogue characterized by both words as well as silence. Advent of platforms like
Facebook, LinkedIn, Skype and instant messaging services like Blackberry messenger, Gtalk
have undoubtedly given as an opportunity to stay in touch with friends and family residing
miles away from us or reconnect with those we had lost touch with, these interactions can at
best be described as superficial and people feeling more lonely and vacuumed than before.
To take a slightly tangential view, proliferation of media technologies has also impacted the
time people take out for themselves and their families. Stories of the rich and successful
having 20 hour days with each minute being invested in work related activities, mails and
texts from colleagues late into the night or in the wee hours of the morning, global alliances
which require people from all parts of the world to work according to the time of the client;
have all created a sense of insecurity amongst people. Today we are not only expected to be
available, but ourselves wish to be available at all times in order not to be left behind. This has
further put pressure on the time one spends in interacting with others.
To summarize, while the function of technology should no doubt be an increase in leisure

time helping us enrich our social bonds, in truth technology has lead us further away from
this end.
Claim: Knowing about the past cannot help people to make important decisions today. Reason:
The world today is significantly more complex than it was even in the relatively recent past.
0
The claim extended in the argument is that given the context of systems in existence today,
knowledge of the past cannot be used as a basis for decision making since these systems are
far more complex than anything in existence apriori. All matter is in a state of flux and it is
crucial to recognize that decisions taken in the past cannot be replicated as it istoday, however
since patterns in nature and human behavior repeat themselves, albeit in dissimilar contexts,
knowing about the past would definitely help us be better informed and prepared for the
future.
While scenarios evolve, the underlying struggles are relatively homogenous across time. The
threat of global warming that we are facing today has been manifested in the past in the form
of the ice age. Ignoring this live example and not learning from it would be akin to
accelerating our progress towards doomsday. The ice age serves as a reminder that the
environment too is constantly evolving, those species who are able to adapt to this change
survive and those that are unable to incorporate the environmental indicators become extinct.
Learning from the ice age would also give insights about the catalyst that resulted in a shift in
the environmental conditions, armed with which we would have a strong aegis to ensure
higher chances of survival and continuity. The scientific community mirrors this belief; Daniel
Sigman, a Princeton Earth scientist is studying the climatic conditions during the ice age and
has claimed that the pattern of increasing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is recurring now
as it had during the ice age. He believes that exploring this phenomenon in-depth would help
us understand where the earth is headed in the future and crucial decisions could be founded
on this knowledge.
It is also important to be conversant of the human tendency to regard their sufferings and
scenario as unique. Each successive generation views their struggles as complex and the
struggles of their ancestors as relatively less complicated. However this is a pitfall that must be
avoided, each struggle is equally valuable and intense. The prehistoric man for example was
largely occupied with providing the basic necessities of food and shelter for this family and his
activities revolved around the necessity of ensuring survival. While this as a struggle is far
removed from our present realities, the decisions of our ancestors must not be devalued and
both their success and failures should be reflected upon as invaluable mines of knowledge,
serving to provide us real life outcomes of courses of action. For instance Maskhan-Shapir, a
city in ancient Mesopotamia fell into ruin as a result of irrigation problems. The city was
caught is a quandary as leaving irrigation water in the fields lead to an increase in salt content
and draining the water lead to soil erosion, affecting produce and implications for the
denizens in both cases. The same pattern is now being witnessed in California‖s San Joaquin
valley and despite availability of modern techniques the decline has been rampant. It is likely
that this pattern could have been altered, had knowledge from Maskhan-Spair been taken into
consideration.
Learning from history does not have a geographical barrier and though it could be argued
that the systems in most developed countries have changed far too much for past knowledge
to be much more than fables, developing countries can do well by replicating the successful
decisions of the developed nations. The learning curve does not have to start from nadir and
evolve through the process of trial and error, instead the speed of development can be
significantly advanced when information in the context of similar socio-economic contexts is
delved into and assayed.
In conclusion, it is has been evidenced that our problems today are not that dissimilar from
those that existed in the past, and knowing about these can in every way serve to only benefit
us.
Claim: Major policy decisions should always be left to politicians and other government
experts. Reason: Politicians and other government experts are more informed and thus have
better judgment and perspective than do members of the general public.
2
Based on the assumption that government is vastly more knowledgeable and better accoutered
at decision making than the laity, the author avers that policy formulation should be the
prerogative of the government. I believe that the problem does not require an either or
solution and after weighing in the pros and cons as detailed below, it would be clear that
collaborative decision making would be the ideal way forward.
While it is true that the government has expert opinion and resources at its disposal, an
important aspect that the author overlooks is the vested interest of these groups and other
beneficiary groups, which the government might be beholden to. The politicians might have
their own gain concatenated with the interests of large donors or unions. To avert such
decision-making which would be beneficial only to the powerful, participative decision-
making or citizen involvement is imperative. For instance, any major policy on environmental
protection and reducing carbon emissions would be detrimental to the corporate community
and they would exert significant influence on the government officials to filibuster. However
when the denizens are involved, a more balanced policy can be ensured. The TATA Nano
project in Singur, West Bengal is an example of the government subverting the interest of the
citizens and allocating large pieces of land, displacing the common farmer, in order to earn
favors with a large corporate house. The resulting agitation eventually lead to the project
being shifted to another state, causing significant loss to the West Bengal government.
However, had a more consensus based approach being adopted, a policy to the betterment of
all involved would have likely ensued.
Participative decision making is propitious for both the society and the government. While the
nation benefits from adoption of a policy which has its foundation etched in the ―larger
benefit‖, the government too benefits as it would face less resistance and more support from
the people in implementation of the policy. The dialectical process that participative decision-
making entails would serve to sensitize both parties to each others‖ views; the government to
what the people want and the general citizens to various problems or hurdles in policy
making. It would act as an impetus for the citizens to be involved not just in the strategic
process but also at the grassroots level with the actual implementation in their own local
communities. This idea is best highlighted in the book ―The Wisdom of the crowds‖ where in
the author purports that decision making based on aggregation of information in groups often
exceed individual wisdom and this is true in myriad scenarios from economics, to business
and national good. The four main criteria diversity of opinion, decentralization, independence
and aggregation each resulting in incremental benefits towards most effective decision
making.
While it has been seen that democratic decision making is an effective way to diffuse excessive
power in the hands of a few, it does come with certain disadvantages and delays. There is
significant cost involved in ensuring a wide cross section of people to ensure significant
representation and to avoid any skew. Additionally, the citizens might not have the policy
makers are required to possess which could severely limit practical applicability. Trying to
diffuse opposing stances and arrive at a consensus could be a painfully slow process and in
situations where an immediate decision needs to be taken, it might have effects to the
contrary.
However the value derived from involved citizens actively debating and deliberating over an
issue cannot be tangibly measured against objective parameters such as time and cost. Any
policy would finder higher acceptance if the voice of the people has been taken into account
and time and cost objections are offset by the likelihood of the policy being far more enriched
and comprehensive, serving the larger needs of the society. Hence it can be concluded that
bilateral decision making is far more advantageous than the government unilaterally
deciding.
It is more harmful to compromise one‖s own beliefs than to adhere to them.

0
The assertion made in the argument is that one should never compromise on their beliefs, but
resolutely stick to their stand under the assumption that the opposing viewpoint would relent.
An unequivocal assertion such as the above does not fully take into considerations various
scenarios, in absence of which the claim extended seems a cogent one. However, I would be
taking a few instances to highlight that a decision on compromise requires one to look at the
problem from various aspects before a final judgment can be made.
The first perspective to be taken into account is the narcissist vs. socialist debate. It would be a
mistake to narrow our vision and consider only those values that are white in nature, to be
truly beliefs. Beliefs of an individual can be black as well and in fact even have shades of gray.
Looking at it from this perspective, it becomes clear that if those with egregious beliefs also
remain fixated, then the consequences could be a cataclysm like the Holocaust. The author‖s
claim would then become qualified and we must see whether the beliefs are structured on
megalomaniacal foundations or have the larger good in mind. To illustrate, it was primarily
Hitler‖s unwillingness to compromise on his beliefs of anti-Semitism that lead to genocide that
is still looked back at with horror. On the other hand if we were to view the socialist changes
in history, from abolition of slavery to women rights, all of them necessitated a dogmatic
persistence and a refusal to compromise on what is right.
Another argument is the short term vs. the long term compromise, or a compromise of the
means. Compromising of beliefs in the long run is actually a misnomer, for any compromise
in the long run becomes surrender, as there is no such thing as a partial relinquishment.
However in the short run, it is often necessary to make small compromises in order for the
closure of all communication, which is essential to resolve conflict. Gandhi for instance, made
the ten finger print compromise with the South African government and instead of a complete
abolition of the system succeeded in ensuring it was a mark of identification and not of
stigmatization. However in the long run he was relentless in pursuing his fight for justice and
was clear that any compromise would be akin to losing the battle.
However once the above two litmus tests have been cleared and the beliefs one holds are those
that represent the larger good or are voicing injustice, then it would be counter productive to
be equivocal about them and look for a middle ground to settle. In the American Civil Rights
movement, the million man march was evidence of one such instance where the march to
Washington was conducted despite a restraining order, and was one of the most monumental
points of the campaign.
In conclusion, the difference between bigotry and compromise must be understood and one
must weigh the genesis of the belief in order to determine whether a compromise would be
the best solution. But once the truth is established, it would be a defeat to compromise on those
principles.
Claim: Colleges and universities should specify all required courses and eliminate elective
courses in order to provide clear guidance for students. Reason: College students—like people
in general—prefer to follow directions rather than make their own decisions.
0
Research indicates that the primary reason for burnout in the work place is neither monetary
nor stress related, but a feeling of impuissance. The same is true for people across all age
groups and in all contexts. It then is incorrect to say that people prefer to follow directions
and use that as the foundation to base the decision of dictating the course to the students,
instead of giving them the freedom to choose.
Studies across a cross section of settings have proven that an individual‖s physical and
emotional wellbeing is directly proportional to the sense of control they feel over their
situations. Patients in nursing homes are shown to recover faster, cases of depression and
anxiety are seen to be far lesser and positive behavior such as a desire to learn and improve
oneself is reinforced in a person who has the autonomy to take his own decisions. Given this
insight, it would be counter-productive to instruct students on what they should study. It
would kill the students‖ drive and cause them to become dull and listless people who are
simply complying with guidelines given to them.
Another implication is that such a policy would immure students into a mould where they are
looked less as individuals and more as products that an educational institute is mass-
producing for the society. It relegates individual preference to the background and
disenfranchises students of their power of decision-making. This effect becomes so deeply
entrenched that individuals often lose their ability to make decisions and is a phenomenon
that is manifested through one‖s life and people are often unable to think for themselves or
have the confidence to take a position. An individual who has through his entire initial period
of development has been stopped from taking decisions, cannot be expected as an adult to
break out of these shackles and transform into someone who can cut the Gordian knot.
Longitudinal studies also show that students who were given considerable freedom in
deciding various aspects of their schooling performed better as they grew older. This is also
corroborated by observation of students from Sudbury Schools, a much higher percentage of
who go on to enroll in college than their counterparts in ―closely monitored‖ schools.
The problem should also be considered from the aspect that every field differs in its
orientation and straight jacketing education does not yield results. An individual who wants to
go on to join the corporate world in a managerial capacity would need to have solid
grounding in subjects like economics, finance, leadership and decision making amongst
others. An artist on the other hand need not have an aptitude for economics, but for the
different styles and variations in art, a deep understanding of colors and moods etc. Even
within the same field of study, symmetry cannot be said to exist. An artist might choose to
focus on medieval art while another might be keener on the aspects of modern art – while
there would be an overlap of a few core subjects, a large part of the curriculum would need to
be customized. It would be impossible to prefabricate course structure for each individual
preference and would be far more logical and economical to let students choose their strands
of study based on their preferences.
Opposing views to the above thinking are not completely unfounded. It is likely that students
might not have the experience or vision that adults have and would need some structure to be
able to decide what they want to do or should do based on their aptitude. The best course
would then be to provide guidelines or framework and also counsel students based on their
interests. The debate however is not whether students should be given completely autonomy
but whether they should be completely devoid of any freedom to take their decisions. From the
points highlighted above, it is clear that depriving students of this power would have severe
implications on their performance both in the short and the long run and would additionally
also be detrimental to the society.
No field of study can advance significantly unless it incorporates knowledge and experience
from outside that field.
0
The claim made in the argument is that a field of study is most benefited when it draws from
interdisciplinary knowledge. I am in agreement with this viewpoint and would defend my
opinion based on three key points – people have contributed significantly to fields in which
they had limited exposure, people working in one field are likely to make mistakes that a
person with a fresh perspective can point out, whole new frontiers could be traversed by
crossing two different fields of knowledge which would also have a bearing on solving social
problems.
Let us take the example of Bill Gates, an entrepreneur par excellence who spent a substantial
portion of his life in the IT industry. Post his voluntary retirement he decided to dedicate his
life to philanthropic causes primarily in the area of health, a field in which he had little
exposure or theoretical grounding. But despite what might popularly be considered a
―handicap‖, or perhaps because of it, the foundation has been able to make significant
contribution to the improvement of health initiatives in third world countries. Bill Gates drew
heavily from this experience as a businessman in creating a new field, that of
philanthrocapitalism, and has been able to alleviate some of the ills that dogged the
philanthropic community – scalability, accountability, evaluating success and raising funds. It
was his perspective as an outsider that enabled him to view the field afresh, to challenge the
status quo and look for solutions to problems that ailed the field.
When one spends a majority of their time working on the same thing, it often becomes a blind
spot and even established experts are unable to subvert this problem. However when fresh
ways of thinking and knowledge from other fields in imbibed, the problem reveals itself and is
followed by a solution that enriches the field more than before. An example of this is the
problem confounding the scientific community with regards to the molecular structure on an
enzyme in a breed of monkeys that is known to cut proteins from an AIDS like virus. The
puzzle when presented to lay people as an online game was cracked in less than 10 days!
Another defense for the importance of cross disciplinary knowledge is that new fields of study
could be created at the hybrid intersection of existing fields. Studies on extra terrestrial life
forms are one such example which necessarily require an understanding of both astronomy
and biology. The field would be able to make little headway in the absence of knowledge of
even one of these areas. Learnings from this field of study could have important implications
for humanity and have the potential to attenuate our problems or compound them. But in
either case an absence of knowledge would be far more harmful.
Opponents however argue that independent fields of study are likely to advance faster, when
an attempt is not being made to solve all problems at one go. They argue that a possible
solution is not presented until it satisfies the beliefs of experts of all the fields, which could be
a daunting task. For instance the evolutionary science is severely restricted because it
contradicts religious sentiments and beliefs. This behavior however is akin to ―The Ostrich
myth‖ and one needs to realize that ignoring a problem would not make the problem go away.
In conclusion there is much to be gained when different fields of knowledge intersect and
work together to solve problems. Significant gains are likely when an esoteric view is adopted.
True success can be measured primarily in terms of the goals one sets for oneself.
0
The author asserts that true success is not an extrinsic phenomenon but an intrinsic one and
success can be best measured based on the goals one has defined for oneself. I largely endorse
the authors view and believe that the definition of success cannot be straightjacketed, instead
it varies from person to person depending on what they are striving towards.
Few words are as elusive to a definition as success and while there have been attempts to
define proxies to measure success; they have found little endorsement from a cross section of
people. One of the oft-used proxies for success is riches and society is quick to label the
wealthy as successful ideals that humanity must aspire towards. However would wealth be a
good aspiration for a majority of the world population that is living below the poverty line?
Would it be good yardstick to measure the grit and determination of people in war torn
countries like Afghanistan, whose biggest achievement could be characterized as their sense of
hope and their ability to move on despite all odds? Or to the malnourished populations in
Somalia who feel a sense of victory if they can provide four square meals to their family in a
day? The definition of success then changes depending on the circumstances of the individual
and only an internal benchmark could be used to evaluate performance.
While objective externally defined criteria present a metric, they often fail to motivate people
as much as self defined individual goals. Motivation serves as the basis to impel people
towards hard work and persistence, both of which are essential for true success. In fact drive
and doggedness have the power to subvert all else making people pursue their goals single-
mindedly. Even supposed failures do not present a roadblock then, as proven by personalities
across the spectrum from Henry Ford, to Abraham Lincoln and Oprah Winfrey. All these
people were able to overcome their circumstances because they had an internal benchmark
they had defined for themselves, not because someone required them to do it.
Another constraint that externally defined measures of success presents is that they do not
take into consideration the ever evolving nature of internally defined goals. Goals a person
defines for oneself undergo transitions as a person grows and develops and
additionally,internal goals are not immured by past laurels. If Bill Gates believed that being the
wealthiest man in the world was the ultimate manifestation of success, he would not have
chosen to start a foundation that today is making significant contributions in changing health
concerns that plague a majority of the world‖s population. Maslow‖s need hierarchy theory
states that self actualization goals are at the pinnacle driving people to solve previous
conundrums.
From the above it is evidenced that externally defined measures of success pose more
questions than answers and fail on many counts as a means to celebrate the success of people.
It is only when outcomes are measured against individual determinations, can the true success
of an individual be ascertained.
Claim: Governments must ensure that their major cities receive the financial support they
need in order to thrive. Reason: It is primarily in cities that a nation‖s cultural traditions are
preserved and generated.
Tags: claim, cultural centers, financial support by government, gre essay, GRE writing, major
cities, reason
5
Historically, certain cities rose to prominence over others of the same nation primarily for
three reasons – 1) geographical size, 2) abundance of natural resources or proximity to
trading routes and 3) because of their historical and cultural legacy. Thus there is some
veracity in the author‖s claim that cultural traditions are preserved in cities. However, it is
equally true that some cities are predominantly economic and financial centers, and not the
ideal lens with which to view the wont of a nation. While in the latter case it might appear
that the author‖s argument is weakened, it is my view that even these cities have a critical role
to play in preservation of the ethos. At the same time the government cannot be absolved of its
responsibility simply by concentrating on the major cities
It is true that the culture in major cities around the world has become variegated and can best
be called cosmopolitan. However, the pride that the denizens of a nation have in their culture
vouchsafes its continuity. World cities like Paris, New Delhi, Beijing are all examples of cities
which despite external influence have a distinct cultural heritage which they are known for.
These cities have always had a rich history which perhaps was the main reason of them rising
to prominence. The influx of people from all parts of the country to these major cities also
adds to the cultural Diaspora resulting in a kaleidoscopic effect for anyone wishing to get into
the nuances. Maintaining these rich cultural databases requires money, and while there could
be other sources as patrons, receipts from tourism – the primary source of funding would be
the government.
While the mores and traditions are less diluted in smaller cities, they themselves are unable to
attract patrons and the artisans are often seeing langushing. It is the marketing prowess,
infrastructural development and facilities of the larger cities that help establish the country on
a world stage. From the government‖s point of view these are also sound financial investments
to make as the returns are reflected in increased tourism and thriving local economy, adding
to the nations GDP and HDI. This exponential income which is generated can then be
redirected to smaller cities where the means of subsistence are fewer. Little wonder that
culture has become one of the most potent marketing tools utilized by nations these days.
On the other hand, most major cities are already self reliant in terms of the resources at their
disposal. They have a prolific economy and do not require government assistance except for
some overlooked sectors. However the smaller cities relying primarily on local produce and
consumption require funding for various activities. The threat of inadequate funds on cultural
degradation is twofold – 1) in absence of a sustainable means of livelihood, artists move to
more lucrative career options and 2) with the youth migrating to bigger cities for livelihood
options, transfer of cultural heritage from one generation to another would be contained. It is
also often seen that government funding are deployed into extravagant marketing activities in
large cities, however a proportionate benefit to culture is not witnessed. E.g. Common wealth
games – money allocated for extravagant opening and closing ceremonies as a gateway into
India‖s rich culture but little to no benefit was witnessed.
In summary, major cities if not natural cultural hubs, often act as the marketplace for culture
and tradition and hence cannot be undermined and overlooked by the government. However
in many cases the source of the country‖s ethos is actually the rural cities and it would be
essential to nurture the source for the stream to be long and mellifluous.
To understand the most important characteristics of a society, one must study its major cities.
Tags: character of society, characteristics of society, gre analytical writing, gre essay, gre pool
of essays, major cities
0
Historically, certain cities rose to prominence over others of the same nation primarily for
three reasons – 1) geographical size, 2) abundance of natural resources or proximity to
trading routes and 3) because of their historical and cultural legacy. Thus there is some
veracity in the author‖s claim that cultural traditions are preserved in cities. However, it is
equally true that some cities are predominantly economic and financial centers, and not the
ideal lens with which to view the wont of a nation. While in the latter case it might appear
that the author‖s argument is weakened, it is my view that even these cities have a critical role
to play in preservation of the ethos. At the same time the government cannot be absolved of its
responsibility simply by concentrating on the major cities.
It is true that the culture in major cities around the world has become variegated and can best
be called cosmopolitan. However, the pride that the denizens of a nation have in their culture
vouchsafes its continuity. World cities like Paris, New Delhi, Beijing are all examples of cities
which despite external influence have a distinct cultural heritage which they are known for.
These cities have always had a rich history which perhaps was the main reason of them rising
to prominence. The influx of people from all parts of the country to these major cities also
adds to the cultural Diaspora resulting in a kaleidoscopic effect for anyone wishing to get into
the nuances. Maintaining these rich cultural databases requires money, and while there could
be other sources as patrons, receipts from tourism – the primary source of funding would be
the government.
While the mores and traditions are less diluted in smaller cities, they themselves are unable to
attract patrons and the artisans are often seeing langushing. It is the marketing prowess,
infrastructural development and facilities of the larger cities that help establish the country on
a world stage. From the government‖s point of view these are also sound financial investments
to make as the returns are reflected in increased tourism and thriving local economy, adding
to the nations GDP and HDI. This exponential income which is generated can then be
redirected to smaller cities where the means of subsistence are fewer. Little wonder that
culture has become one of the most potent marketing tools utilized by nations these days.
On the other hand, most major cities are already self reliant in terms of the resources at their
disposal. They have a prolific economy and do not require government assistance except for
some overlooked sectors. However the smaller cities relying primarily on local produce and
consumption require funding for various activities. The threat of inadequate funds on cultural
degradation is twofold – 1) in absence of a sustainable means of livelihood, artists move to
more lucrative career options and 2) with the youth migrating to bigger cities for livelihood
options, transfer of cultural heritage from one generation to another would be contained. It is
also often seen that government funding are deployed into extravagant marketing activities in
large cities, however a proportionate benefit to culture is not witnessed. E.g. Common wealth
games – money allocated for extravagant opening and closing ceremonies as a gateway into
India‖s rich culture but little to no benefit was witnessed.
In summary, major cities if not natural cultural hubs, often act as the marketplace for culture
and tradition and hence cannot be undermined and overlooked by the government. However
in many cases the source of the country‖s ethos is actually the rural cities and it would be
essential to nurture the source for the stream to be long and mellifluous.
As people rely more and more on technology to solve problems, the ability of humans to think
for themselves will surely deteriorate.
Tags: ability to think, gre essay one, GRE writing, relying on technology, technology to solve
problems
0
The author purports in the argument that excessive reliance on computing systems would
result in people becoming lazy and degenerate and negatively impact our cognitive processes.
This lamenting view however, fails to take into consideration several aspects of the debate. If
viewed from a more holistic perspective, it would be clear that reliance on machines couldn‖t
make thinking dispensable.
Change is a natural in the course of evolution and technology is one aspect of the change. Our
prehistoric ancestors were preoccupied with providing for the basic necessities of their
families and themselves and all cognitive processes were involved in optimizing this problem.
With the introduction of farming, man no longer was a nomad, he could now settle down and
the earlier brain processes that were concerned with exploring new places that promised
abundant food and protection, were now free to be invested in other aspects. This lead to the
first known technological invention, the wheel. However the invention of the wheel did not
negate the need to delve into other quandaries that our ancestors faced. There were concerns
of feeding, shelter, sustenance and learning which still needed to be solved. Technological
innovations free us from mundane, repetitive tasks and dilemmas which were hitherto elusive
can now be dwelled upon. With the introduction of communication technology, it not only
became possible to keep in touch with our connections more efficiently but further
exploration of possibilities has resulted in information platforms being developed through
which farmers in remote villages can learn about best farming techniques and can directly
connect to the end consumer eliminating middle men and increasing their earning capacity.
In the field of education, opponents of technological innovations have argued that pupils are
severely immured by automated calculations, and ability to do mental mathematical
operations has diminished. This argument does not hold merit, and research in the field of
education has highlighted that these technological innovations have in fact aided the learning
process. Students can now focus on problem solving and the skills taught are more relevant to
the real life context as the focus shifted from ability to do calculations to an ability to
understand and apply the concepts. It is indeed likely that the increasing number of
entrepreneurial start-ups by teenagers are an outcome of this focus on problem solving.
It is also imperative to expand the definition of ―thinking‖ from purely analytical to other
aspects like emotional thinking, social thinking and thinking for oneself. Technological
advancements in the field of media have made the art of film making more accessible to a
larger number of amateurs. The camcorder has accoutered many people from poorer and
neglected communities to create documentaries of issues concerning them. It has expanded
their creative thinking and given them a platform through which they can effect social
change. People are no longer in the throes of their circumstances and collaboration is now
possible across geographies where individuals from across the world working for a common
cause can combine their energies.
While some deleterious effects of technologies have been witnessed in degradation of moral
thought processes, the instances of technology being misused by pedophiles to exploit
unsuspecting young children being a case in point, it is not technology per se that can be
blamed but how an individual chooses to apply this technology.
To summarize, technology exists for the benefit of mankind. It helps us better utilize our
mental capacities and employ them in areas where we can make a more productive
contribution, be it commercial, social, creative or emotional. Any depravities in cognitive
faculties then, are solely to be attributed to the individual.

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Posted: July 18, 2012 in Uncategorized

Learning is primarily a matter of personal discipline; students cannot be motivated by school

Leaders are created by the demands that are placed on them.

Effective governance is a misnomer in absence of accountability of public officials who work

The primary purpose of art is as a catalyst to stimulate senses, as a means of self-expression

All parents should be required to volunteer time to their children‖s schools.

The primary goal of technological advancement should be to increase people‖s efficiency so

To summarize, while the function of technology should no doubt be an increase in leisure

Unfortunately, in contemporary society, creating an appealing image has become more

The best ideas arise from a passionate interest in commonplace things.

To summarize, while the function of technology should no doubt be an increase in leisure

It is more harmful to compromise one‖s own beliefs than to adhere to them.

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