Critical Thinking Blog #1

How would you define "critical thinking?" Can it be taught?

Critical Thinking is a way of interpreting something in a more in-depth logic. One should see the different perspectives that arise and have an independent way of thinking but still respect the opinions of others. This way of thinking appears in school many times, but I don't think it can be taught. One needs to expand their mind and open up the box to see the different components to critical thinking. Many people appear to be stuck in a stubborn bubble, where everything is either black or white. Each person needs to figure out critical thinking for themselves, therefore it is learned through experience instead of just being taught.

Big Box Stores Blog #2

Greenhouse, Steven , “Wal-Mart, a Nation Unto Itself,” The New York Times , April 17, 2004, p. B1.

CLICK HERE FOR ONLINE ARTICLE.

Walmart is the world's biggest retailer and alone has caused a huge impact on the economy in the United States. It is starting to look very similar to a form of capitalism that has been around for a while. Usually in stores you will find salesmen that follow you around trying to get you to purchase their products. However, Walmart uses a different approach and puts their prices a lot lower so the consumers will buy the product without any of the salesmen helping. The article is about a group of 250 scholars who meet at the University of California to discuss Walmart's affect on the nation. Walmart's low costs end up paying a huge price, since they "encourage overconsumption and overdevelopment, which place strains on natural resources and the environment." This article will be of great help in my essay because it shows both sides of the story, the fact that Walmart is hurting the economy but in a way the citizens are selfish because they will continue to shop at it because of the low prices.

"The High Cost of Low Prices"

The whole tone of this film is set up to persuade one to stop shopping at walmart and realize the price some people pay for others to pay less money for items. Walmart is a fast-growing industry that has shut out many small businesses because they sell the items for less. However, walmart does not have the higher quality and knowledge behind those items, and the film wants people to acknowledge that. The film is set up in a small conservative town with high neighborhood values and a good community. I found the film very convincing with their point, especially when it showed the walmart world in china, and all the people working at the factories. One is naturally going to feel sorry for those factory workers, and everytime they enter walmart they will most likely think about it. In fact, I just went to walmart yesterday and actually felt bad for shopping there for the first time in my life. However, I am probably like many people in the United States, I care more about getting the lower costs, so I will probably continue to shop at walmart. :/

What makes a good public space?

There are many public spaces in every town, but what makes one a good public space? First of all, it would have to be a clean and open area so many people can be comfortable there. The purpose of the space would have to be useful for all ages. It would be nice if there were a parking area as well as pedestrian zones. Some attractions could be placed there so people would not get bored, such as shopping or food shops. A good public space should have convenient hours so it is easy for people to take time out of their busy day to go. Grass and water attract the eye very much, so either one of those would bring the people to come by.

Venice Beach!

A beach with its own culture and reputation, Venice Beach is a great public area to analyze. The first thing you tend to notice is how amazing the weather is, it is never really too hot or cold. A long street full of entertainers and shops catch your eye as well. You can buy almost anything along the beach, and its especially great if you are looking for hand-crafted jewelry, since there are many little booth set up selling them. The street entertainment consists of performers that show off their talents every weekend. As I walked along the road, there was an old man that could make bird noises, an indie band playing, and a man that would pretend to be a statue until you put money in his jar. One of the most interesting ones I found was a drum circle. Random people bring their drums on the weekend and share their common joy of playing no matter how different they are. Another famous spot on the beach is Muscle Beach, a separated segment full of excercising equipment when people can go and lift weights. They also hold many competitions there. One of the best parts about Venice Beach is the variety of people that visit there. Everyone tends to be down to earth and accepting of the other people that are walking along the beach as well. Venice Beach is one of the most popular locations in Southern California and will always be a great spot to observe the culture and people.

Learning how to blog!

Just setting up my new blog in English 101. :)



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