My thoughts: The change with regards to technology evolves from Globalization. This term can relate to any of several levels of aggregation - the world, a country, a company or even a specific line of business or functional activity within the company. Is the world truly becoming more global? Clearly we can see countries' GDP gowth is largely measured by the exports and imports of the countries, and with the fast pace of globalization figures are raising high. In class, we discussed interesting concepts of model (rising stars, dominant players and falling stars). Some of the dominant nations - China, India and raising star Singapore are countries that are categorized as leaders in their areana willing to learn and are optimistic in adopting new ideas. These countries are getting more competitive and working towards the globalizational goals. But when it comes to USA, it becomes questionable as to whether will they still remain leader in the near future? Or becoming a falling star in years to come? I believe only time is going to tell.
Technology and Human Development
My thoughts: Human development is all about people, about how people can create and use technology to improve their lives. It is also about forging new public policies to lead the revolutions in information and communications technology and biotechnology in the direction of human development. Many people fear that these technologies may be of little use to the developing world—or that they might actually widen the already savage inequalities between North and South, rich and poor. Without innovative public policy, these technologies could become a source of exclusion, not a tool of progress. The needs of poor people could remain neglected, new global risks left unmanaged. But the rewards could be greater than the risks if it managed well. I firmly believe that with such aid, the poor people are able to raise their standards of living with a healthier lives, longer life span, greater social freedom, increased knowledge and more productive livelihoods. Throughout history, we have seen, technology has been a powerful tool for human development and poverty reduction.
Is HDI a good indicator to measure Human Development? Many have different definitions of happiness.
What is happy without money? What is happy without your love ones? What is happy without a healthy body? In my opinion, happiness can be in tangible (money, family, beautiful house etc) and intangible forms(education, knowledge, health, opportunities etc). What's yours then?
Prof later moved on to the millenium development goals (MDG) youtube video clip. Personally, I feel that these goals ae possible to achieve if every nation put in an collective efforts in making this work in raising awareness and provide hands-on support to these needy. Government corruption in the developing countries should also be put to a stop.Tackling goverance issues within their system may not be easy but only inadequate goverance linvaiably leads to ineffective use of available resources.Weakness in these areas will therefore translates into weak policy commitments and poor service provision towards attainment of the MDGs.
Overall, I find this week lesson interesting especially when knowledge is shared by the presenters and engaging discussions. I would rate 7.5/10.
" Change is inevitable and often necessary; the transition process can often be difficult or painful (for some)"
Dr Shahi
