Egyptian Authorities Ban Al Jazeera

http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/01/30/egypt.al.jazeera/index.html

As tensions increase in Egypt, authorities shut down Al Jazeera, a comprehensive media network. Many are outraged at this ban, especially protesters who believe that both sides should be broadcasted. From the American perspective, this act is a scandal. The very first amendment to the constitution defended the right that was violated by Egyptian officials. Al Jazeera believes that the regime needed to salvage its support and did so by silencing their voices, which spoke objectively. By censoring the media, Egyptian President Mubarak has exhibited his power and his devotion against Democracy.

Health Care Discussion Rxn

During the class discussion on Friday, I was struck with some new insight. One of the most outstanding was the question, "Why do prisoners get more health coverage than citizens do?" by Alex Fino. This strengthened my belief that health coverage should be a right as this would provide a more acceptable leverage than lowering the health care of prisoners. As I have stated in class, "Why should we value health care differently than government services such as the fire department or the police department?" It may be argued that these services are to protect other citizens, but one must take into account that the postal service is another government program. This may be somewhat inaccurate statistics, as I remember being told this, but cannot confirm, but Americans pay less taxes than citizens of other countries. In this respect, Americans should learn to take care of one another financially. It is every citizen that makes this country (at least it should be...) and to neglect another citizen's suffering is to harm America. Not only do Americans need to take care of one another, but also of themselves. I will admit that I am a victim of the fast food appeal, but I balance this out by being active. Other countries, such as China and Japan, rely less on engine transportation, cars and such, and more on physical transportation, bicycles and walking. These countries have a much less obesity rate. With fewer health problems, the health care system can be relieved and universal health care may be more accepted. Eat your fruits and vegetables!

U.S Missionary Assasinated in Mexico

http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/americas/01/26/mexico.missionary.shot/index.html


As like during the Boxer Rebellion in China, it seems some are uncomfortable being cultured by Americans. Although the victim has been quoted as a, "nurse, a friend" and a "spiritual advisor," her presence disturbed someone. The motives behind this assassination have not been revealed (yet), but the message is clear: she was not welcomed.

Pratley, Sara. U.S missionary in Mexico fatally shot. CNN World. CNN, 26 January 2011. Web. 26 January 2011.

Flashmob: Pregnant women breakdancing in London

This comedic video shows "pregnant" women, professional dancers wearing pregnancy suits, breakdancing in the presence of confused onlookers. The purpose of this was to highlight the fact that women in many impoverished nations die giving birth due to the lack of secure methods. As tragic as this is, overpopulation is also a threat. I am not advocating the mass death toll, I am advocating awareness and education to solve both issues. Stay in school.

My Problem with Religion

Note: not for the closed-minded*
Warning: may be offensive*

      History has manifested the disgraces of religion. Religion's image of unity and integrity has exonerated it from public scrutiny and caused many to overlook its corruption. The problem with religion is the intolerance towards other religions; unity only exists within a religion, not among religions. From the Crusades during the Middle Ages to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict during present day, the large number of casualties can be attributed to the discord among religions. Religions set guidelines for its followers that may not always be just. For example, Catholics are prevented from using birth control methods, greatly contributing to overpopulation and the war for resources that follows.
     However, there are still some religions that maintain tranquility. Buddhists and Quakers, for instance, tolerate all other religions and advocate a nonviolent society. If there were more religions such as these, the concept of religion would not be so corrupt.



I have nothing to cite.