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When I was growing up our influence, stimulation and education came from books and radio. I am not speaking of influence of parents, teachers and friends, which remains basically the same. Our usual source of knowledge came from books, lectures from travelers, explorers, etc. We also had radio, but ever here the background and situation had to be imagined, such as, horses’ hoofs, rain, and people coming and leaving. A man would return from a European trip and lecture about what he saw. Trips overseas were that rare in the 1930s. Photography was still not able to project magnified pictures on a screen. A book gave us a word description of a scene, building, person’s clothing and facial expression, etc. But the actual mind picture came from one’s imagination. This was healthy because it forced us to think through the process from words to word picture!
Today, much of the information and needs in our life is presented to us via TV, the Internet, Google, etc. TV and movies give us a dramatic presentation of the situation of events unfolding in the story. All we have to do is sit and listen! Why read and imagine the scene when all we have to do is turn on the TV or select the movie from the current list and it is all presented for us. We read books, but today people listen to “books on tape”. I maintain reading skills are much lower today than previously.
All this adds up that internal thought processes are not being developed or stimulated as they were in years past. Of course, the argument is the information is there when we want or need it, or the ability to add a column of figures is not needed since we have a calculator nearby. This is true, but our reasoning skills are not developed and because information is not stored internally can one carry on a conversation with a traveler or foreigner as successfully? Maybe, but I think not.
Try to Be Fair-Minded
Being fair minded is easier to say than do because we accumulate viewpoints and prejudices, either from past influences or current activities and friends. My parents came from a meager financial but morally strong background and some of the prejudices associated with this period were not present in our household. Through my own experiences I felt the pressure to absorb attitudes regarding race, riches, poverty, class of people, etc.
I believe I have come through these diverse influences with my thoughts, ideals and actions relatively free of prejudices, but none of us are perfect. The point is to continue to try to be fair-minded in all of our thoughts regarding others and their actions.
Growing Old Can Be Good Also!
To younger people growing old seems to be terrible, and to some degree this may be true, however, there are real blessings and delights in being past the mundane cares of younger years. I must preface this by saying poor health can trump many positive thoughts about growing older. Think of the daily work, responsibilities, family, meeting the wishes of others that largely pass when the golden age rises from the horizon.
The freedom to engage in different and new activities can be invigorating, educational and service to others. It can be fun also. Volunteerism is great because the endeavor is of your choice and often can be dropped when the enthusiasm wanes. Also, there is a big world and travel can beckon with other seniors.
Perhaps best of all is time to “smell the flowers”. The must do pressures of working and family daily life are behind and with the slower pace the enjoyable and pleasurable part of life can emerge. Taking time to visit the shopkeeper, encourage a grandchild, view the integrities of a rose bud, leisurely reading a book – these are some of the things that can come with growing older.
American Democracy
The American democracy is alive, strong and functioning. However, it has taken over two hundred years. We have survived a civil war, several devastating economic upheavals, growth from a small group of sparsely populated states bordering on the Atlantic Ocean to a population of almost three hundred million and stretching three thousand miles to the Pacific Ocean, absorbed emigrant peoples from diverse countries in Europe, South America, Africa and Asia.
The original basis of the republic was thirteen colonies of England who fought for their freedom successfully. In trying to exist after the war, each colony recognized it could not exist independently, so cooperation was assumed from the beginning, but hard bargaining was part of the unifying process. The large states wanted more power, but the smaller states possessed economic advantages needed by the large states and so compromises were achieved to make the country come together and a constitution was written and adopted. Also, men involved in the establishment were men of stature, patriotism, and willing to put country again of personal or regional desires. Names, such as Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, etc. were active in the Constitutional Convention. Washington became the first President. These men are still revered today.
Thus, the people were determined to make democracy work. Remember at this period 1787–1789 and after, England represented the only functioning democracy (a King in title only) and the experiment in France a few years later resulted in disaster.
The greatest test to American democracy came when the southern states in the United States succeeded from the Union over the slavery issue. President Lincoln refused to let this happen saying they didn’t have the right to leave the union and a bloody war was the result. This established the principle of one nation with all states involved.
A second period of difficulty was connected with economic downturns, particularly in 1929–1936. With large numbers of people unemployed, many hungry, etc. a number of democratic countries succumbed to the pressures and became dictatorships or ruled by an elite group. The USA was able to survive this period.
The United States has always had two political parties representing different points of view regarding government. Today they are called Democratic and Republican. In the last fifty years we have had Democratic administrations 25 or 30 years and Republican has been the balance. Over the years some politicians had tried to establish a third party but after obtaining a small number of votes have been absorbed into the established parties. Each of the two parties has groups with diverse opinions about certain issues but stay under the group’s umbrella because that is the only way their viewpoint can be listened to.
I will not go into the organization of the United States government, except to state their three pillars: executive, legislative and judicial. Each has a function and we call it “checks and balances” so that no one branch can take power by itself. And it works. The President can veto laws passed by the Congress (the legislative) and the Supreme Court (judicial) determines if the laws passed are legal under the Constitution. Of course this works because we have a two party system to keep the party in power honest and law abiding. If one party controls everything, then democracy doesn’t function properly and leads to excesses. England also has a functioning two party system and their democracy is eight hundred years old. Politicians don’t like opposition but it is necessary for democracy to operate and prevent one-person or one party control.
Learning Activities 5
Exercises
Reading for Details
I. Answer the following questions:
Why it is sometimes better to keep silent?
What is the difference between the concepts “No problem” and “You are welcome”?
Where did the influence come from when Mr. Strunk was young?
Why can’t many people nowadays carry on a conversation with a foreigner as successfully as before?
Why is it difficult to be fair-minded?
II. True / False:
You must never “bite your tongue”.
All grandchildren of Mr. Strunk say “thank you” for the little courtesies.
In the 1930s photography was already of a very good quality.
Reading skills are much lower today than previously.
Mr. Strunk’s parents were prosperous.
III. Complete the following sentences:
There are times when the direction of the discussion must be…
People learnt about far-off lands by means of…
TV and movies provide…
Growing old provides real…
Over the years some politicians had tried to establish …
Word Study
IV. Give the Russian equivalents for the following words and expressions:
convection; to debilitate; to be dropped to; to maintain (herein); to store; fair-minded; mundane; to trump; upheaval.
V. Give the English equivalents for the following words and expressions:
oзвучить своё мнение; требовать больших усилий; с моей стороны; придержать дверь для кого-то; подбросить (до дома); источник знаний; увеличенная картинка; словесное описание; действие разворачивается; воодушевляющий.
VI. Find the right word in the English text for the following definitions:
to grow or cause to grow and become more mature, advanced, or elaborate;
to decrease in vigour or extent; become weaker;
to long to possess something.
VII. Interpret the following phrases:
to hold back; to bite one’s tongue; to straighten smb out; to rise from the horizon.
VIII. Give synonyms:
discussion; to smother; to oppose; impetus; scanty.
IX. Give antonyms:
voluntary; disadvantageous; to have no influence over smth; external; biased.
X. Give the derivatives:
to mean; to tempt; benefit; a fold
Follow-up Activities
XI. Thought-provoking questions:
To your thinking, what are the keys to success in a conversation?
Do you agree that nowadays people have become less intelligent?
Do you fear growing old? Why / why not?
Part 6
Ethnic Diversity
The United States has always been a country of immigrants. Although the original settlers coming to our shores were primarily from England, other small groups originated from France, Spain, and Holland. After 150 years building the 13 original colonies, or states, independence was established and the United States of America was organized. As the country grew, opportunity was abundant, immigrants flocked to America. These people came from many European countries. They brought with them their language, customs, religion, talents, and beliefs. As one can imagine this influx of many new people brought richness to society as well as problems. Three neighbors with their own language, ideas of government, social conventions, etc. These neighbors adjusted to each other because they needed to, but mainly they wanted to become “Americans.” They were prepared to leave their Old World behind and become citizens in the New World.
In my opinion, wanting to become citizens in the new world and Americans has been the secret of ethnic diversity in the United States. Many use the term “melting pot” to describe the results of the transformation. Some like to use the term “salad bowl” to picture this process and in many ways this is correct because many nationalities keep their special holidays, dances, traditions and in many cases language, particularly in the first or second generation. However, by the third generation this is diminished. My grandmother and grandfather came from Germany in 1840–50 and settled on a farm in Missouri in the Midwest of the USA. Most of their neighbors were immigrants from Germany so their customs and practices were continued. Their children, my father and mother, were educated in the public schools learned English, American history and government. Through their jobs and business, moving to other non-German areas they receded from the Old Days and became thoroughly American. I never learned German as a language and my parents never spoke it except when they had something we children didn’t want to know about, such as, Christmas presents.
This process of integration has continued for two hundred years often with different groups coming from different countries than before. In 1890–1910 large settlers came from Italia, Russia, China, Serbia, etc. After one generation they again became part of the melting pot. In recent years new people have arrived from Asian countries, Africa, South America and of course, Mexicans. In the last thirty years there has been a large influx of men and women coming from Mexico, the country south of the United Sates. Many of these people have come into the country illegally, some by swimming the Rio Grande River, which is the border between Mexico and the United States. Although this large group has begun to integrate, the process is slower partially because with the number of Mexicans in the country they are not forced to learn English rapidly and thus integrate with others. They have Spanish speaking TV and radio stations, etc.
One large group has until recently not been permitted to become part of the melting pot. It has been the negro population. They were brought to the US as slaves and continued that way until 150 years ago when they were freed. However, they were largely uneducated and possess limited skills other than those used in farming. Because of their “color,” lack of skills and education and other reasons they were decremented against and segregated. Some integration occurred in northern US cities but in the south, where most of the black people lived, discrimination prevented any integration. In recent years this is changing.
The ethnic diversity of America will continue to evolve as long as people view the opportunity in the United States to be better than in their home countries and the US remains open to new residents. It should be noted many countries do not permit any immigration. To many people of the World, the United States is still the land of opportunity!
Young People’s Problems
First I should state I am no expert on the problems young people in the US face although I have three married children and thirteen grandchildren. These observations will be from a limited viewpoint and someone detached from the intimate knowledge of the mind of young people.
In general, young people in the US face the same problems as young people in other developed and semi-developed countries: learning to make one’s own decisions, separation from parents, sexual desires, what career to follow, finding a life mate, etc. However, young people in the US do face these and other concerns.
Although the United States is a large country, people and specially young people are very mobile. Thus they travel throughout the country, go long distances to attend colleges and universities, visit friends in cities away from their home, etc. This opportunity to be mobile gives independence to the young and opportunity to explore nature, develop new interests away from their home location. In general auto and air transportation is readily available and cheap. This mobility applies to visits, education and careers and job location.
Many have financial resources to follow their interests and desires as listed above. Travel is easy, cheap and safe. Thus financial and travel restrictions that may be present in some other countries are not a hindrance in the US. However, this excess of money can be good and bad. It can lead to excessive freedom and lessened influence of the parents when the young people may need direction and discipline from their parents.
Mass Media
Mass media could be defined in several ways, but I consider it to be all forms of public communication, such as, newspapers, radio, television, mail, meetings, etc. There is a large growing and very influential communication in semi-private internet via blogs, Facebook, etc. In fact, people and businesses are using email on the internet as a means of communicating rather than telephone or mail. Of course, businesses, organizations, politicians, etc. also use this method to influence people.
Returning to the original definition of mass media, this industry is very influential and powerful in the United States. Newspapers are readily available and read by a majority of the people. Also a number of young people do not subscribe to a newspaper, many receive this same information via TV since the newspapers all have “web” sites where most of the info in the newspapers is repeated. Newspaper editors and owners have traditionally taken a position on civic and political controversies through their editorials in an attempt to sway the opinion of its readers.
Since readers and listeners are influenced by newspapers, radio and TV, the politicians use these media to publicize their position on various issues. Hence, a news conference, or position statements, or one-on-one interviews to announce or argue a position or rebut an argument – these are normal actions.
The mass media holds a powerful position in the United States, because people are and want to be informed, listen or read extensively and because of this widespread reception politicians are very attuned to the market as represented by the media. Another reason for the power of the media is that it is free from restriction and censorship. We have long talked about the “freedom of the press” and media people and the general public fight a real or imagined attempt to coerce or hinder anyone from publishing or airing a story about a government action, politician errs or civic cover-ups. Knowing of this freedom gives credence to the validity of the news reports and statements.
Although not really considered “mass media,” talk shows and call-in programs are very influential in the radio and television scene. These programs can have their focus to be political, sports, women interests, etc. In sports programming several experts, usually former players, will express opinions and then listeners will call the station, be “on the air” and express a thought which may or may not be in agreement with the opinions of the experts. This can make for a lively program. Leaders of the political talk shows will have a bias that is generally well-known to this program’s audience. The discussions will usually concern the current political “hot” topic with the leader expressing an opinion and the listeners will add to or disagree with the stated viewpoint.
One program, the “Oprah Winfrey Program” was on the television for twenty five years with a large listening audience primarily women since the show was aired in the morning. She dealt with current social problems, new ideas, recommended books to read, invited celebrates to be interviewed by her. Except for social or racial issues, she generally avoided political issues. Her influence and audience was exceptionally large and although not mass media, her influence on issues was great.
Although not as widespread or prevalent, religious programming usually by radio is very effective to the audience the religious organizations are trying to reach. In Chicago, the evangelical Christians have radio stations featuring Bible studies, talks by Christian leaders and, of course, call in talk shows. Christians will listen to this station and receive encouragement, teaching and advice on raising children, work problems, etc. The Catholic church has a similar outreach as others do.
The use of TV, radio and newspapers during elections is very interesting. Ads prepared and sponsored by organizations representing a particular candidate will run these ads showing the candidate in the best possible light and conversely they may contain information detrimental to the opposing candidate. It is called negative advertising. Since the content of the ads is not regulated the opposing camp can say anything within reason. These 30 to 60 second ads can be very effective.
The newspapers during election times are used to present more lengthy, reasoned arguments in favor of a candidate. These generally will be ads not interviews and press conferences. Newspaper reporters are intelligent enough as not to be taken in by candidate’s words without backup information.
Radio is also used in a different manner. There are few negative ads but mostly extolling the virtues of the candidate sponsoring the ads. TV advertising is very expensive, so many people running for office will use the radio to get their message across. Of course, talk shows are very vital because it gives the candidate an audience to express his views, but also, those opposing the candidate can voice their opinion as well. It makes for an interesting program.
Learning Activities 6
Exercises
Reading for Details
I. Answer the following questions:
What is the secret of ethnic diversity in the USA?
How did Mr. Strunk’s parents use their native tongue?
What is slowing down the process of integration of the immigrants?
What are the advantages that modern young people enjoy in the USA?
Why mass media is considered to be a means to publicize someone’s opinion?
II. True / False:
The United States has always been a country of immigrants.
As soon as people moved to the USA they forgot the traditions of their own culture.
There are no illegal immigrants in the USA.
In general auto and air transportation is expensive.
People are not influenced by mass media.
III. Complete the following sentences:
In the last thirty years there has been a large influx...
One group that has not been permitted to become part of the melting pot…
The excess of money can lead to…
The politicians use mass media to publicize their position on various issues due to…
The mass media holds a powerful position in the United States because…
Word Study
IV. Give the Russian equivalents for the following words and expressions:
to flock; melting pot; to be decremented against; to subscribe; to rebut; one-on-one interview; to be attuned to; to run for office; prevalent.
V. Give the English equivalents for the following words and expressions:
поселенцы; обычай; приспосабливаться к; этническое разнообразие; развиваться; спутник жизни; финансовые возможности; рекламировать; сдерживать; погрешность.
VI. Find the right word in the English text for the following definitions:
relating to a city or town, especially its administration; municipal;
making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible;
a person who applies for a job or is nominated for election.
VII. Interpret the following phrases:
to take a position on; to sway the opinion of; to hinder someone from; to be on the air.
VIII. Give synonyms:
to withdraw; to merge; to be isolated; obstacle; partiality.
IX. Give antonyms:
to increase; impartiality; attached; immobilized; unfavorable.
X. Give the derivatives:
to reside; evolution; mobile; bias.
Follow-up Activities
XI. Thought-provoking questions:
To your thinking, is the situation with immigrants in Russia similar to that in the USA?
What are the general problems of young people in Russia? Are they similar to those in the USA? Why?
What are the similarities and differences between mass media in the USA and Russia?
Part 7
Immigration
As noted in a previous essay, America is a nation of immigrants. Everyone has come from a foreign country to the United States. The incentive to emigrate will vary from time to time and is often driven by unsatisfactory conditions in the native country. For example: the potato famine in Ireland in the 1870s and the failure of an upheaval attempt in the government in Germany in 1848 caused a number of Germans involved to come to the United States. The pogroms in Russia caused many Jews to leave their homes in Russia and Poland.
However, the overriding reason has been the opportunity for economic advancement, freedom and a dream for a new and bright future. In my case, my ancestors stated they left Germany because they were tired of their “boys” having to fight in senseless wars. Also, I believe the stories relayed from friends living in the US regarding landownership, education for children and economic opportunity had a convincing effect.
Occasionally, men were brought into the country to perform necessary but difficult tasks. During the building of the transcontinental railroad in 1960s workers were required to cut through mountains in dangerous terrain in California, so Chinese men were imported to accomplish this task. When completed, they chose to remain so today California has a sizable group of Chinese. Proceeding from the east the route was fraught with physical and severe weather hazards, so workers from Ireland were enlisted to conquer these obstacles. Again, these imported workers chose to stay and a number of our Eastern cities have large Irish populations.
Immigration Figures
Immigration has been and is a source of talented, aggressive and educated individuals who want to use their ability in a positive area and thus achieve recognition and advance economically. America has always been open to hardworking people with new ideas and willing to compete. Many of the new inventions, life changing ideas have come from men and women who brought their talents to the United States.
Our fine university educational system has also been a source of talented immigrants. Many foreigners enter US universities to receive a super, often technological education. They become researchers and elect to remain in this country. I am sure the parent countries are disappointed with this action, but the US is the benefactor.
Political unset can also lead to immigrants. The Jewish persecution in Nazi Germany led to an immigration of many scientists.
Although we are all immigrants, sometimes the established immigrants resent and look down on more recent arrivals. Instead of assisting new comers, they place roadblocks in their way. They may be discriminated in where they can live, jobs, and community affairs. This is the attitude of “I worked for my position with no help, now I am not going to make it easy for you”.
This is especially prevalent in today’s political atmosphere regarding the Mexican illegals. For years Mexicans came into the US by simply crossing the border with Mexico. Employers were looking for low wage workers and although the wages were low by US standards, they were high compared to Mexico. Thus, the employers encouraged the flow of workers and the government lent tacit support to the idea. During the Reagan administration these illegals were given the opportunity to become US citizens after passing citizenship tests. The last few years the flow has increased and suddenly people objected to this process and demanded a stop to illegal entry into the United States. The long, 800 mile, border has been strengthened and when discovered, illegals are returned to Mexico. Attempts by some politicians to solve the problem by legislation have been met by angry opposition.
People enter the United States from many countries and generally are welcomed because these immigrants bring enthusiasm, freshness and a desire to advance economically. The US admits several million immigrants legally each year. Several millions in addition are admitted on student visas and more are given work permits authorize the entry for a short period of six months or even several years. Some try to overstay their permit and hope to become permanent residents. Most are eventually caught and returned to their native country.
Development of Society
A better title may be “Changes in the established society and its practices”. All groups, races, clans, nationalities and countries develop their own system of ethics, accepted behavior and standards for the group. This criterion will vary from group to group, but some standard is known as the norm. Of course, in large groups, such as countries, different groups will arise and they may establish their own ethics and standard of manners, customs and admission to the group. The aristocracy of England and other European countries is an example. India with its caste system is another.
But societies are never static and changes can and do occur. Usually some overt change will speed the transition. This may change due to wartime needs, radical changes in government, economic upheavals, etc. To these one must add the influence of communication from TV and now “social” communication, level of education, different ideas from younger generations and the recognition that drawing closer to other societies through travel, business, education and interfacing affects people’s thinking. We may not be one world, but the customs, beliefs of others bring us closer together and thus changes the way groups operate, believe and progress.
Learning Activities 7
Exercises
Reading for Details
I . Answer the following questions:
What is the main reason for emigration?
Why are there so many Chinese in California?
America has always been open to hard working people, hasn’t it?
Do established immigrants help new comers?
How many immigrants does the US admit each year?
II. True / False:
America is a nation of immigrants.
The overriding reason for immigrants has been the opportunity for economic advancement, freedom and a dream for a new and bright future.
Women were brought into the country to perform necessary tasks.
Imported workers decided to return to their country.
People enter the United States from many countries and generally are welcomed.
III. Complete the following sentences:
The incentive to emigrate will vary from time to time…
During the building of the transcontinental railroad in 1960’s…
Although we are all immigrants…
Several millions in addition are admitted on student visas…
To these one must add the influence of communication from TV…
Word Study
IV. Give the Russian equivalents for the following words and expressions:
an overriding reason, an ancestor, a source of talented immigrants, to lend tacit support, citizenship test, economic upheavals, famine.
V . Give the English equivalents for the following expressions:
картофельный голод, попытка сместить правительство, бессмысленная война, маршрут был чреват опасностями, политические гонения, дешевая рабочая сила, в соответствии с законодательством.
VI. Find the right word in the English text for the following definitions:
a very big change that often causes problems;
a situation in which a large number of people have little or no food for a long time and many people die;
a large group of families that often share the same name.
VII. Interpret the following phrases:
to cut through mountains, an immigrant, low wage workers.
VIII. Give synonyms:
pogrom, an overriding reason, persecution, to make it easy for smb.
IX. Give antonyms:
ancestor, to bring into the country, imported.
X. Give the derivatives:
communication, to operate, recognition, to invent
Follow-up Activities
XI. Thought-provoking questions:
Do you want to emigrate from your country?
What country will you choose if you leave your country? Why?
Can you add your own reasons why people enter the USA?
Part 8
Russia Trip 2009
Interesting to see the changes over the 20 year period I have visited Russia. Due to jet lag problems my trip was shortened and six days was not long enough, but some changes immediately become evident.
I have visited Nizhny Novgorod, where my good Russian friend and English professor, Vladimir Kalmykov lives, each time. This city is the third largest in Russia and is an educational and manufacturing center. It produced tanks, jet airplanes, trucks and nuclear submarines during World War II.
Ten years ago Russians had severe inflation, no jobs, food was available but was very expensive and the citizens were very discouraged with life and especially with the introduction of capitalism. With oil money Russia is now enjoying, attitudes, hopes and life are dramatically different. People seem to have money, the newly opened malls are busy, stores are well stocked and food is plentiful with good selection although expensive. One store I visited had the same variety of fresh fruits one would find in Chicago, although at a higher price.
Although I understand corruption is rampant, the government seems to be using the oil money wisely. Three examples. While visiting five years ago, the city began to extend the subway line across the Oka River with an accompanying automobile bridge. The stump of a bridge extended only 100 feet from the shore. I thought at the time with the slow way Russians build things it would take ten years to cross this wide river. This year driving from the airport we crossed the bridge which had been opened ten days before. Since Moscow controls all things, someone opened the spigot. My hosts credited the governor of the district, now appointed by Moscow and not elected as before, with the effort. Oil money!
Second, Vladimir’s friend and neighbor, a retired civil engineer, said his pension had been increased. Oil money! Third, Vladimir lives one block from the bluff overlooking the two rivers, the Volga and Oka. This esplanade previously was a nice place to walk along a black top path. Now, the area has been landscaped with a low stone wall, picnic tables, and places to sit and enjoy the scenery. Usually destitute governments don’t spend money on beautification projects. Oil money!
Six days is too short to judge but people seem to be happy. I will describe my lectures to the students later, but I asked them, “How would you rate the future of Russia: poor, fair, good, very good. The answer was good! Five years ago I asked the same question and the answer was poor and fair. People seem confident and pleased with the actions of the government. Officials seem to have learned a few techniques from the USA. The mayor of the city was on TV with a call from the citizens. He answered a wide range of questions in a seemingly responsive manner.
However, the contrasts of the past and the future are evident everywhere. The Orthodox churches with their unique onion domes have been remodeled, painted and the domes golden hues glisten in the sun light. New apartment buildings are rising without any zoning regulations. This is apparent because next to the modern building are old wooden houses built over a century ago. These weather-beaten and unpainted one-story houses are occupied by one or more families who occupy them with rights that make it difficult to force or pay them to move. One technique has been to have a fire!
My friend, Vladimir, lives in a five floor apartment building located in a fine neighborhood a block away from the wonderful views and sights of the Oka and Volga River. They have been given ownership of the apartment and though very small, particularly by US standards, it serves their needs and they enjoy the convenient location. This and other nearby buildings were built in 1960 at the height of the Communist regime. Although only 49 years old, the poor construction is evident in the exterior and interior spaces. The concrete stairs are cracking and in places uneven and outside windows are required to be replaced. Most of these problems are because of poor maintenance since in the USSR days people did not own their apartments, they didn’t care. But that is changing. In previous visits ice on the sidewalks would remain since salt was not used. Now, the walks are cleared of ice and snow, still no salt, and walking is not a precarious experience.
Nizhny Novgorod is home to a number of universities. The three largest, all state supported, are: Technical university, 10,000 students, a Liberal arts (USA term) university, 10,000 students and the Linguistic University, 6,000 students. Vladimir tells me there are 20 other universities in the city, including a music school. Most are privately funded and owned. If a student is qualified, attendance at a state supported university is free. If under-qualified private schools are available and tuition is paid. Since most of my interaction with the Russians was via the students I will describe my reactions.
The students asked about democracy in America and what I thought about democracy in Russia. I was able to respond that evidence of democracy working in the US was our election of a black man as President. I couldn’t resist commenting that Russia has a law about a president serving only two four year terms, yet Mr. Putin is still very much involved. No one challenged me on this statement.
Russian students are alert and based on my brief reaction intelligent. 80 % of students in the foreign language school are girls. Incidentally, in the technological school, 80% of the students are men. Russian girls are pretty and with the lack of sun and sugar in their diets enjoy a fine complexion, and of course, there are very few non Russians. So few that exceptions are very evident. One girl with an Asian look had a Korean mother and Russian father. This is so common in the USA but rare in Russia.
Five years ago, only a few students possessed computers, now everyone I asked owned one. Incidentally, most have computer with a dual language keyboard, Russian and English. Cell phones usage is universal and students have adjusted to their use in that no cell phone rang while I was lecturing. This was not the case on my previous visit. These tidbits are not earth shaking but do demonstrate the forward adjustment of students.
The students are interested in the United States and many questions were related to that interest. Questions regarding the financial crises, crime, death penalty, our government, our new president indicated they had knowledge of the USA. They were also interested in my thoughts about Russia, its youth, schools, etc. They did not question me about our government or its relation to the Kremlin. In my last visit, there was a barrage of inquires and negative comments about the Iraq war.
One man asked me if alcohol was a problem in USA. I responded that we had some alcoholics but not nearly the problem as in Russia. This is a major concern in Russia and in spite of several campaigns to reduce the drinking the problem continues. Part of the problem is the long winters, lack of meaningful jobs, and poverty. However, in my opinion, part of the problem is in the lifestyle of the Russian family. There is very little entertainment outside the family. Movies are poor and not attended. Few sporting events, theaters, concerts, etc. for people to attend, thus the socializing takes place around the dinner table and drinking is pervasive. Russians enjoy their meal and sit at the table for several hours, talking and drinking. They drink their vodka in a shot glass and drink its contents in one gulp. Over the years I have been privileged to be a guest in a number of families in Nizhny Novgorod and the pattern is usually the same. Families enjoying each other and drinking vodka.
Ten years ago the presence of the commercial interests of the USA was very evident. McDonald’s had opened several restaurants, the US government maintained an information office to assist businesses, both local and American, to ease the way to do business in Russia. An advertisement on the side of the street cars and buses advertised “New York Pizza”. Five years ago I attended a special program hosted by the local government honoring the 10th anniversary of the USA information office. The US ambassador attended and it was a great thrill to hear “Stars and Stripes Forever” sung in Russia.
Today, the information office is closed, McDonald’s is the only America fast food operation and there is little evidence of US products in the stores. Toothpastes displayed Colgate and Aquafresh and the remainder were European or domestic brands. In the clothing stores I saw no US labels.
I realize there have been a number of events discouraging American business interests, such as a takeover of foreign investments, a devaluation, etc. Also, the attitude of the US and Russian governments has been often antagonistic and I am sure this has thwarted business investment.
However, interest in the United States remains high. I cite two examples. I was scheduled to lecture to one of Dr. K. classes of about 20 students and he was introducing me when the fire alarm sounded. It was a drill but everyone had to leave the building. The lecture was scheduled for the next day. I expected only ten students to be present but over sixty showed up. The word had sounded that an American businessman was going to speak. Two days later I spoke at another university and again sixty five people were in attendance. Their attendance and questions indicated a real interest in America.
Second, the local TV station wanted to interview me. The interview took place as we walked to the university where I was to give a lecture and answer questions. The Russian questioner spoke excellent English and the interview continued into the classroom. That night the interview did not run, so I thought it was not significant enough, but several days later the interview aired. I cite this to demonstrate the interest that remains in Russia about the USA, its people, customs, government, etc. I am pleased President Obama is seeking open relations with Russia.
A comment about cars and pedestrians. Twenty years ago there were only a few cars on the streets and all transportation was via street car (tram) or bus. In 2009 cars usage has exponentially increased and even an occasional traffic jam occurs. Formerly pedestrians could cross the streets almost anywhere because car passage was infrequent, but today pedestrians try to follow the outdated procedure and drivers of car feel they have all rights. As a consequence, Russia has 30,000 traffic deaths, including pedestrians, each year. This compares with the USA total of 40,000 and we have at least ten times as many cars.
One day I visited a grocery store four blocks from the apartment with Vladimir’s wife, Galya. We traveled the route she had taken for years. This included crossing a small plaza where several streets intersected and following her usual path she crossed at the widest part of the intersection. Cars passed on both sides as we waited in the middle of the intersection until an opening occurred. In the USA, pedestrians would be required to cross at the side of the plaza with a cross walk or traffic signal. Change will come but in the meantime each group is inserting their “rights.”
Russia’s history, traditions, transformation from a feudal society to a modern nation, its semi detachment from Europe, yet so similar in many ways, the seventy years of communist rule, the harsh climate and the geographical size of the country are all factors in my making Russia fascinating and different. And it will continue to be so. I feel it has been a real privilege for me to be a witness to some of the changes and to admire and enjoy Russia and its wonderful people.
Learning Activities 8
Exercises
Reading for details
I. Answer the following questions:
What was interesting for the author when he came to Russia?
How had Russia changed?
Whom did he visit?
Was it interesting for the author to communicate with the students?
Did he enjoy his journey?
II. True / False:
The author came to Russia for the first time.
Nobody came to listen to his lectures.
The Russian students are interested in the United States.
The author thinks that there is no alcohol problem in Russia.
It was a real privilege for the author be a witness to some of the changes and to admire and enjoy Russia and its wonderful people.
III. Complete the following sentences:
Ten years ago Russians had severe inflation…
While visiting five years ago…
My friend, Vladimir, lives in a five floor apartment building …
The students asked about democracy in America…
Few sporting events, theaters, concerts, etc. for people to attend…
Word Study
IV. Give the Russian equivalents for the following expressions:
to walk along a black top path, to spend money on beautification projects, weather-beaten and unpainted one-story houses, to be based on smb’s brief reaction intelligent, a barrage of inquires, exponentially increase.
V. Give the English equivalents for the following words and expressions:
Смертная казнь, двойная раскладка (клавиатуры), православная церковь, высокая инфляция, инвестиции, девальвация, пожарная тревога, враждебные отношения.
VI. Find the right word in the English text for the following definitions:
an economic and political system in which businesses belong mostly to private owners, not to the government;
a small but interesting piece of information, news;
a lot of criticism, questions, complaints etc that are said at the same time, or very quickly one after another.
VII. Interpret the following phrases:
To be discourage with smth, to remodel, a precarious experience, a great thrill.
VIII. Give synonyms:
Destruction, advertisement, a barrage of inquires, rampant.
IX. Give antonyms:
a poor answer, fair, poverty, to be pleased with, qualified.
X. Give the derivatives:
To attend, to describe, to entertain, to paint.
Follow-up activities
XI. Thought-provoking questions:
What do you think about the changes that happened in Russia?
Do you agree that evidence of democracy in the US was their election of a black man as President?
Why do think there are so few American products in Russian stores?
Keys
Learning Activities 1
I. Answer the following questions:
1. According to Mr. Strunk, if a person looks upon service to others as a privilege, he is on the road to being happy.
2. The real good comes from serving others in a loving, often sacrificial manner.
3. Children influence their parents’ attitudes as they go to college, meet students from other cultures and backgrounds with a different set of values.
4. Failure is beneficial because we can learn from the failure, do something better and succeed the next time.
5. By trying new endeavors, we make our life more interesting, exciting and rewarding.
II. True / False:
1. Mr. Strunk believes that one must be selfish to be happy. – False. He believes that we must help others to be happy.
2. Mr. Strunk believes that we can do more and different things than we sometimes originally think. – True.
3. Education is restricted only to receiving grades. – False. Education is much more than college grades, it is the development of an individual and most of this occurs outside the classroom.
4. Mr. Strunk dislikes seeing young and old minds being understimulated. – True.
5. Education stops at the conclusion of schooling. – False. People continue a lifetime of education, they read books, watch TV programs, travel.
III. Complete the following sentences:
1. Often the new idea is rejected when first introduced, but maybe a year or so later, I will hear the father or mother present the argument as their own.
2. It is often when we experience failure, does the evaluation, contemplation and learning occur.
3. Mr. Strunk is constantly amazed what the human body can absorb, how it can change and strike out in a new direction or be receptive to new challenges or difficulties.
4. By trying new endeavors, life becomes more interesting.
5. Mr. Strunk’s education occurred during wartime.
IV. Give the Russian equivalents for the followings words and expressions:
impetus – толчок, импульс;
to preach – проповедовать;
to assess – оценивать;
liberal arts degree – степень в области гуманитарных наук;
technical course – техническое образование;
indulgence – снисхождение, послабление, потворство;
courtesy – вежливость;
to mold – формировать;
to be aware – знать;
to have firm roots – иметь твердые корни.
V. Give the English equivalents for the followings words and expressions:
врождённый – congenital; развитие / продвижение – promotion; сотрудник – employee; предостережение – caution; старание – effort; бомбардировать – to bombard; в жертвенной манере – in a sacrificial manner; любознательный – curious, inquisitive; начеку – on the alert; жизнь, посвящённая службе другим – life devoted to serving others.
VI. Find the right word in the English text for the following definitions:
having or showing an interest in learning things – inquisitive;
a thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something – impetus;
providing satisfaction, gratifying – rewarding.
VII. Interpret the following phrases:
to be all part of – all the things belong to;
at the foot of – at the beginning;
problem laden – having a lot of problems;
to espouse a different set of values – to think that other thing are important.
VIII. Give synonyms:
to achieve – to gain – to reach;
attainment – achievement – acquisition;
to sieve – to sift;
to judge – to assess – to evaluate;
devoted – dedicated – faithful.
IX. Give antonyms:
to lower – to raise;
ungratifying – pleasing;
unwatchful – attentive;
instability – stability;
improper – appropriate.
X. Give the derivatives:
influence – to influence, influential, influenced;
rewarding – unrewarding, reward;
to assess – assessable, reassess, assessment;
sacrificial – sacrifice, to sacrifice, sacrificing, sacrificial.
Learning Activities 2
I. Answer the following questions:
1. God was looking after the welfare of Mr. Strunk.
2. He manifested itself in many ways: in answers to prayers, in avoidance of accidents, in life’s direction, in action in the family, in health. God helped Mr. Strunk to find a wonderful, loving wife, helped him in his career and so on.
3. There are two purposes of Jesus’ life on earth: the first purpose is to give us a new massage of love, peace and relationship with our fellow man and the second one is to save us from our sins preparing a place for us in heaven.
4. One of the key lessons Mr. Strunk received from the retail business is that listening to others is vital. We can learn from other people, gain new knowledge, besides listening is a good way to build relationships.
II. True / False:
1. Mr. Strunk doubted the existence of God. – False. He never really doubted there is God.
2. As he reread Sermon on the Mount he was taken aback how far people have deviated from the marvelous principles exposed in it. – True.
3. The employees serving customers often took the approach that the customer was always right. – False. When Mr. Strunk entered banking business, he discovered the employees serving customers, especially complaints, did not know how to listen. They often took the approach that the bank was always right and all was the customer’s error. In addition, they wanted to “protect” the bank from a customer wrongdoing. Thus, instead of hearing the customer out, they would inject their thoughts and solution prior to the customer “getting it of his chest.”
4. Everyone is prepared to listen. – False. Listening to what others are saying is a common problem because we are more interested in expressing our opinion than hearing others.
III. Complete the following sentences:
1. One of the reasons I enjoy our Lookout Mountain ranch in Colorado is the peace and closeness to God that I feel, especially when I am alone.
2. Christians instead of demonstrating Jesus’ love and concern are focusing on side issues that divide and alienate rather than bring people closer to Jesus.
3. Listening to others is vital because we can learn from other people opinions and suggestions, gain new knowledge on subjects we are uninformed, it is a good way to build relationships.
4. Instead of hearing the customer out, the employees would inject their thoughts and solution prior to the customer “getting it of his chest”.
5. One of the ways to test whether you are a good listener is to listen to a friend tell us about a subject we know nothing about and couldn’t care less about learning.
6. The speaker will respond to an interested hearer.
IV. Give the Russian equivalents for the following words and expressions:
snowcapped – заснеженные;
to redeem – искупать, спасать, освобождать;
vista – перспектива;
sermon – проповедь;
interdependent relationships – взаимозависимые отношения;
anointed – помазанный;
pulpit – кафедра (проповедника), деятельность проповедника, проповедь;
key lesson – ключевой урок;
highlight – выделять, придавать большое значение;
to manifest itself – проявляться.
V. Give the Englishequivalents for the following words and expressions:
Высший – paramount; просвещающий – enlightening; жизненно необходимый – vital; белки – proteins; выслушать клиента – to hear the customer out; доказательство – evidence; когда появляется возможность – when an opportunity arises; мне совершенно безразлично – I couldn’t care less; принимать позицию – to take the approach.
VI. Find the right word in the English text for the following definitions:
the action of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil – redemption;
make someone feel isolated or estranged – alienate;
to long to possess something – covet.
VII. Interpret the following phrases:
to be clothed in – to be presented in the form of;
to reach out to – to try to communicate with a person in order to help;
side issue – unimportant question;
to be turned aside – to be rejected.
VIII. Give synonyms:
to enlarge – t o expand, to magnify;
to finish – to complete, to end;
noteworthy – notable;
well-being – welfare, prosperity;
to drift – to move.
IX. Give antonyms:
to create – to destroy, to break;
praise – blame, criticize;
absence – presence;
well-timed – inopportune;
acceptance – refusal, opposition.
X. Give the derivatives:
error – errorless, to err, erroneous, erroneously;
avoidance – to avoid, avoidable, avoider;
to grow – regrow, growing, growth, grower;
close – closable, closely, closeness.
Learning Activities 3
I. Answer the following questions:
1. He was married to a woman who among her many diverse talents was the world champion encourager.
2. When a person is unable to begin a conversation or introduce himself it hinders his social activity.
3. To engage others in conversation is something that can be learned through your confidence in yourself and observation.
4. When we attempt to evaluate others by the standards that we feel are important, through our experience or background, we run into conflict and disappointment.
II. True / False:
1. Mr. Strunk’s wife did not contribute to his enthusiastic nature. – False. She often said, “Be enthusiastic!” This testimony has been a guiding light for Mr. Strunk.
2. People usually respond to those with an enthusiastic approach to the task and future. – True.
3. Most management techniques emphasize harsh criticism. – False. Thankfully most management techniques emphasize positive reinforcement.
4. The ability to engage others in conversation is innate. – False. It can be learned.
5. You must expect success all the time. – False. You can’t expect success all the time because some people will reject any overtures.
III. Complete the following sentences:
1. After disappointment or failure nobody wants to hear, “you should have done it this way.”
2. People react more positively to compliments than criticisms.
3. People often comment that Mr. Strunk seems to be able to walk up to anyone and initiate a conversation or when meeting people for the first time he is able to engage in a conversation.
4. When you engage complete strangers in conversation don’t expect success all the time.
5. When our level of expectation is not met, disappointment, angst and even anger may follow.
IV. Give the Russian equivalents for the following words and expressions:
antithesis – противоположность;
guiding light – путеводная звезда;
associate (noun) – партнер;
turmoil – смятение, суматоха;
accolade – похвала;
small talk – светская беседа;
to reciprocate – отвечать взаимностью;
ardor – пыл, рвение;
overture – инициатива;
taboo – запрет.
V. Give the English equivalents for the following words and expressions:
утверждение – testimony; заразный – contagious; придавать особое значение – give attention to something, emphasize; потенциальный клиент – prospective customer; препятствовать – hinder; быть уверенным в себе – to have confidence in yourself; значимая встреча – meaningful encounter; общая нить (разговора) – common thread; сквозь призму нашего опыта – through our experience or background; признание – recognition.
VI. Find the right word in the English text for the following definitions:
the state of being unsure, or slow in acting or speaking – hesitancy;
the things and conditions around a person or thing – surroundings;
to develop or present (a theory, policy, or system) in detail – to elaborate.
VII. Interpret the following phrases:
to put a positive twist on smth – to turn the situation in a positive way;
to reach out to – to try to communicate with a person in order to help;
to see life from only one perspective – to have a firm, non-alternative point of view;
to engage others in conversation – to make people participate in a conversation.
VIII. Give synonyms:
inconsistent – contradictory, incompatible, uncoordinated, inappropriate;
to estimate – to evaluate;
to find out – to ascertain;
standpoint – point of view,
shy – timid.
IX. Give antonyms:
to lessen – extend, expand, enlarge, increase;
avaricious – generous;
on the outside – inside, inwardly;
final – initial;
success – failure.
X. Give the derivatives:
encourage – encourager, encouragement, encouraged;
fortune – misfortune, fortunate, unfortunate;
observe – observed, observer, observing, observation, observant;
initiate – initiated, initiative, initiator.
Learning Activities 4
Дата: 2019-12-10, просмотров: 222.