Modern art is it worthy of public attention? ARGUMENTS 1 *artevolves and reflects its time Art in each epoch always reflects its times in terms of form and content, Art evolves along with reality. Realistic or impressionist paintings of the past have now been replaced with abstract figures. Art has been changing and in the future it will also find expression through some other media, * modern art has no meaning ‘The basic function of art is to document and express emotions. One wonders then what kind of emotions or feelings modern art expresses through geometric shapes. Nowadays art represents through objects only those same objects and nothing else because they have no symbolic meaning. * modern artis more relevant to people nowadays It seems that people nowadays may be interested in modern art because it expresses their hidden emo- tions and fears better than artists from the past, who may be admired but regarded as irrelevant to con- temporary people. * modern artis mere provocation Modern art is no longer art but rather provocative sensationalism to attract public attention. Artists prepare pseudo-artistic works such as a dead shark floating in a glass container filled with formaldehyde or clothes made of newspapers. * modern art should also be remembered for the sake of future generations ‘New galleries and museums are established to exhibit contemporary paintings and sculptures. Every epoch is documented through art and modern times also deserve the same artistic chronicle in the form of objects of art collected there to be admired by contemporary and future generations. In addition, thanks to spectacular events modern art attracts to galleries those people who would not otherwise go. * galleries of modern art area waste of money The so-called modern artists will be quickly forgotten by the next generation. Setting up galleries and mu- seums of modern art is a waste of taxpayers’ money. People go there not because they wish to participate in some aesthetic experience but rather because they seek sensation and only want to satisfy their curios- ity. In this sense they do not treat it as art. Itis shal- low entertainment which people ean also find else- where. * modern art assumes the need for expression in different ways than before ‘Trends in art tend to follow a set of unwritten rules to be observed by artists. In this sense we can say that they reflect a way of understanding the world and the place of an artist in it. Modern art then uses different media than art in the past and it is said to reflect human uncertainty, the quick pace of living, the breakdown of human relationships, the influence of technology, ete. “modern art observes norules The need for some rules in art was true in former times. Modern artists follow no rules and they value their unlimited liberty to express their artisticselfby using video or computers for example. Their art is indeed art for art’s sake. For this reason, art has be- come devalued to the level of ordinary objects which can be turned into objects of art. Now even a toilet bowlcan be regarded as a work ofartina museum. * the definition ofart undergoes changes In the past artists were respected as talented craftsmen who had skills which they used for the benefit of their patron. The Greek word for art is tekhne, which refers to technical skills. Nowadays, the understanding of what art is is only different, not worse. 120 * modern artists have no skills Artists have no skills whatsoever. They only want to achieve celebrity status. They attempt to gain fame through provocation and public attention. What brings them real profits is not their artistic output but the aura of seandal. Hence, they do not deserve public attention.Modern art: is it worthy of public attention? * modern artis valuable as ordinary people’s art Modern art is not part of high art but belongs to popular culture, which nowadays overwhelms artis- tic production. Modern art has reacted positively to ordinary people's expectations. It is generally a re- flection of what people feel and require at a given moment. One can't imagine a better symbiosis be- tween artists and their admirers, between art and * modern artists are merely average people Art has always been admired by ordinary people for its elite character. Art used to be high art with which people had contacts rather rarely. Artists were held in high esteem as exceptional individuals who kept in touch with the irrational, the immaterial, the divine. Nowadays artists are seen as ordinary peo- ple. They have merely become celebrities who have the world it represents, nothing valuable to say. EXERCISES I. Match the words in A and B with their synonyms or definitions. 1. assume a. change with time 2. devalue D. stay on the surface of a liquid, e.g. water 3. evolve ¢. establish; start 4. float 4. reduce the quality of sth; make sth less important, 5. gain e. dominate 6. overwhelm £. show 7. participate &: experience sth unpleasant, 8. reflect Ih, achieve 9. set up i. take part in sth 10. undergo §. treat as real A aura a. production 2. breakdown b. a skilled person who works with his hands 3. craftsman c. a person who supports artists 4. epoch . a failure or an end to people's contact 5. esteem €. a period in history 6. formaldehyde f. relationship based on mutual dependence 7. medium g. a particular quality or feeling surrounding a person 8. output hh a liquid used for preserving biological specimens; 8. patron formalin 10. symbiosis respect mixed with admiration j. the material or the form used by an artist IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. ART ARTISTS CHANGES OUTPUT SKILLS i 2. improve bring about increase initiate reduce make stimulate propose undergo 421Modern art: is it worthy of public attention? 122 3. 4, 5 abstract acquire accomplished classical display creative contemporary master : gifted pop Possess performing primitive use TA for for in in into of to to up with with with 1. The old classics exhibition was replaced ... surrealist painting. 2, In my opinion, Damien Hirst’s life is directed by the need ... constant public attention, 3. Some modern installations in art galleries fill me ... fear. 4, We need to establish special funds ... the sake ... all the artists. 5. Provide arguments about art that would be more relevant ... our discussion. 6. A body of experts was set ... for the purpose of deciding what to do with the monument. 7. Do you know any modern painters who are generally known and held ... high esteem? 8. I regularly go to exhibitions because I want to keep ... touch ... the latest trends in art. 9. How did people react... the design of the museum? 10. There are plans to turn the old factory ... a concert hall. IIL. Refer back to the arguments related to modern art and answer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. 1, Look back at all the above arguments about modern art and in each case provide an example of your own to illustrate or explain each point. 2, To what extent can we say that art reflects contemporary reality? What can you say about modern times on the basis of artas itis practised nowadays? 3. What should be the criteria to decide what is a work of art and what is not? Justify your answer. 4, Provide several examples of controversial artistic productions which attracted media attention in recent years. Explain why these projects aroused controversy. 5. Towhat extents an artist a skilled craftsman? Give examples to explain your answer. 6. Should art undergo censorship? Ifnot, why not? Ifyes, to what extent and in what cir- cumstances? 7, There are several types of media that are regarded by many as forms of art. They include photography, advertising and film. To what extent can they be seen as art? Explain your answer. 8, How do you think art will change in the future? What media will be used as means of artistic expression? Justify your opinion.* popular culture has something with which all people can identify Popular culture integrates people all over the world through popularizing the same tastes, for instance in literature and music. People have the same stars and celebrities to admire and talk about, the same books to read, the same films to watch. Popular culture is global culture. Ifso many can find so much in common among the things they like, it seems people are not so different after all. 1 Popular culture oS DE TNe * popular culture is dominated by English Popular culture has been dominated by one language: English. Anglo-Saxon cultures control the majority of all kinds of popular entertainment and everyday life throughout the world, Minor cultures, such as Spanish, French or German, achieve half as much with far greater difficulty. It may be so because English isa relatively easy language and itis regard- ed as being the language of international communi- cation. * popular culture means diversity and global understanding Popular culture accepts novelties easily and feeds on variety. For this reason, so many artists from Eng- lish, French, Spanish or African backgrounds have permeated the global market and become popular outside their own local cultures. In this way, they contribute to tolerance and understanding between people in the world. * popular culture feeds on stereotypes Because popular culture speaks mostly English, the fact that some artists have been successful outside their own country is only an exception that proves the rule, The real message of these local ethnic ar- tists remains misunderstood due to cultural differen- ces. People are mentally lazy and they tend to inter- pret songs, books and films through stereotypes and clichés they already know. * popular culture educates people Global media, such as television or the Internet, promote stars in music, art, literature, sport, etc. Through these well-known individuals people expand their knowledge of the world and artistic genres /hitherto unknown to them. Some music genres or sports may even become more popular outside their “home” (like basketball in China). * popular culture provides only superficial knowledge Popular culture promotes mostly low-brow, unscru- pulous, vain, average artists because only they have a chance of being accepted by millions and thus bring profits to global companies. What people generally know about them is based on gossip and superficial information. * artists make people aware of global problems ‘Through various international and national pro- jects, artists and celebrities increase public aware- ness of various important issues such as protecting the environment, animal rights, AIDS, ete. Thus, po- pular culture not only promotes itself, but also edu- cates people about the world in general. * artists promote addictions and bad behaviour Popular artists frequently take drugs, drink, smoke, wear indecent clothing and generally behave inap- propriately. In this way, they inadvertently promote unacceptable patterns of behaviour among young people who are most susceptible to the influence of popular culture, * popular culture develops the economy and reduces unemployment ‘The pop culture industry develops the economy. New trends and fashions in music, art, literature and clothing constantly appear and make people spend ‘money on consumer goods or services. At the same time, new jobs are created and thus the unem- ployment rateis reduced. * popular culture is senseless consumerism Consumerism has no value because people are forced ‘to buy goods that are frequently of low quality. In addition, parents are made to finance short-lived teenage fashions, which are fuelled by peer pressure. ‘Designer clothes or entertainment products such as, the latest CDs, DVDs or computer games are often, merely temporary fads. 123Popular culture * popular culture enhances artistic creativity 6 *popularculture makes people mentally passive Popular culture stimulates creativity and artistic ‘Popular culture turns people into passive recipients development. Due to exposure to global pop culture, _of culture who do not question what they are offered. local artists know how to become more competitive People feel they cannot be out of touch with quickly and increase the quality and appeal of their own _ changing trends, celebrities, technical inventions productions. Artists may also derive inspiration and so on. When watching television, surfing the from folk traditions of their community and thus _Internet or playing computer games, people enter enrich their own creative talent, a state of almost hypnotic stupor, which is difficult to + popular culture increases artistic sensitivity 7 *popularculture is like a product to be sold Pop culture makes art global and available to all. People are only superficial consumers of culture and Everyone may feel they gain some artistic sensi- _they treat it as a commodity to be bought. They do refinement. In this way, even those who _not want to understand the immaterial aspects of never visit museums or go to concerts of pop orelas- _ culture, for example what makes musie pleasant to sical music enjoy wide access to the less material hear or why a building is an architectural master- aspects of life and can develop their taste. Through _piece. That is why, pop culture effectively kills aes- following well established popular patterns, people _thetic sensitivity so that people are incapable of say- can distinguish what is tasteful and what isnot. ing if some object or event makes artistic sense or not. *popularcultureisa subject ofscholarly research 8 _* popular culture is based on sensation and low instincts Popular culture dates back to the time when mass production of goods was introduced more than a _Popular culture is supported by large corporations, hundred years ago. Popular tastes affect all aspects which increase its public appeal through sensa- of life, e.g. arts, literature, sport or modern archi- _tionalism based on gossip and advertising. What tecture. For this reason, popular culture is subject counts is quantity, not quality. People are constantly of serious academic study among many scholars, exposed to novelties, which change quickly. Artists who analyze it not only during conferences and in _can be made popular not thanks to genuine talent specialist journals, but also in more widely available _but rather because of their unorthodox behaviour or magazines and in other media. shocking productions. EXERCISES I. Match the word: 1. appeal 2. cliché 8. diversity 4, fad 5. genre 6. novelty 7. recipient 8. refinement 9. sensitivity 10. stupor 124 A, B and C with their synonyms or definitions. a, a short-lived fashion b. the ability to understand art and literature c. the quality of being polite, educated and able to i judge things |. a state in which one is unable to think, see or hear clearly . attractiveness sb who gets sth sth that is interesting because it is new and original variety |. a type of literature, music, etc that is recognizable by its features an often used and meaningless expressionPopular culture EA 1 cerive a. improve 2. enhance b. become stronger by deriving energy from sth 3. feed . spread through and affect sth 4. fuel d.. become stronger thanks to sth 5. permeate . develop from sth 1. hitherto a, morally unacceptable or offensive 2. inadvertently b. unfair and dishonest 8. indecent ‘¢. proud of oneself; conceited 4. low-brow . unusual; different from the norm 5. senseless by accident; not intentionally 6. superficial f. without reason or purpose 7. susceptible g. util that time 8, unorthodox hh. easily affected or influenced by sth 9, unscrupulous i, shallow; unimportant; not reaching the essence of sth 10. vain 4. not interested in art; unsophisticated IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. BEY BEHAVIOUR FASHION MEDIA POPULARITY TALENT TASTE a 2 acquire come into cultivate follow develop | *~ eee 0 out of display introduce a new seta 3. 4. annoying acquire aggressive enjoy correct, gain eccentric lose provocative seek stereotypical win, 5. 6 electronic cultivate liberal demonstrate in the local | develop mainstream display mass have traditional inherit 125Popular culture FY back from in of of of on out to to to with with 1. Many artists seem ... of touch ... real life. 2, The vain opera singer was particularly susceptible ... criticism. 3. Parents are not really aware ... what musie genres their children are listening to. 4, It is hard to believe that computers date .... the time when our great grandparents lived. 5. The pop group split after they came to the conclusion that they had nothing ... common ... one another. 6. Popular gossip magazines feed ... people's curiosity. 7. In my opinion, violence among young people derives partly .. their observation of celebrities. 8. I am sure most people who have a tattoo are not capable .. saying what it really 9. Groupies who follow their music idols everywhere hope they can get easy access . them after concerts, 10, Talented actors .. real quality are very rare. IIL. Refer back to the arguments presenting the advantages and drawbacks of popular culture and answer the following questions. Use your own words ‘possible. 1. Look back at the above selected arguments and decide which of them are most/least, convincing in your opinion. Provide any other advantages and drawbacks of popular culture you can think of 2. On the basis of the above arguments, define what popular culture is and enumerate its most relevant features. 8. Look back at each of the advantages and drawbacks of popular culture presented above and provide your own examples to illustrate each point. 4, To whatextent can we say that popular culture contributes to the peaceful coexistence of all people in the world? Justify your view. 55. How can we say that something belongs to popular culture and some other phenomenon does not? Where is the borderline beyond which high eulture begins? Provide examples toillustrate your opinion. 6. Give examples of artists or phenomena that do not come from English-speaking coun- tries. What do you think contributed to their popularity? Provide examples of artists from Poland who gained popularity abroad. Consider pop and classical music, art, literature, sport, fashion. Do you think there are relatively many of them or not? What do you think Polish artists have to do to enjoy fame and recognition outside Poland? 8, ‘Towhatextent can good taste and appreciation of beauty be taught? Can popular culture bean effective source of inspiration? Justify your view. 9. Global popular culture and local popular culture: are they two sides of the same coin? In what sense are they similar or different? Provide examples to support your opinion. 10, Popular culture is ordinary people’s culture, for example inspired by folk traditions. Give examples of trends that derive from folk or ethnic phenomena. What do you think ‘made them appealing to the general public? Justify your opinion. 1. 126Drug problem in sport * enhanced competitiveness Itis alleged by those who are in favour of doping that it allows sportsmen to compete at the highest levels. of endurance and for longer. For example, it reduces pain and increases muscle size and strength. In this way, performance-enhancing drugs increase the competitiveness of athletes and contribute to them achieving better results, breaking new records, ete. ARGUMENTS 1 AGAINST * serious health problems Doping poses a threat to the health ofall drug-taking athletes. For example, it often results in higher blood pressure, an increased risk of heart attacks, height- ened levels of aggression and associated problems such as headaches, impotence and anxiety attacks. In the most extreme cases, the consequence for the athlete is even worse ~ death. There are better ways to improve performance than doping, e.g. better coaching, time management and nutrition. * public demands on athletes ‘Nowadays sport is a commercialized entertainment industry. There are increased demands on athletes to demonstrate better performance in champion- ships and competitions. The public imposes more and more pressure on sportsmen to succeed. “against the Olympic rules of fair play Sport used to be an amateur activity. Nowadays it is pursued by professionals who must not violate the rules of fair play established by the Olympic Move- ment. Any illegal substance discovered in an athlete's, body, whether performance enhancing or not, leads to aban on their participation in sports events. *asenseofachievement Enhanced performance is not against the spirit of the sport; it is rather the ultimate purpose of anyone involved in competitive sports. Every athlete wants to win a medal and stand on the podium in recog- nition oftheir achievement. ethical considerations Using banned substances is in contravention of sport ethics and thus constitutes cheating. It is also against medical ethics as many sportsmen are una- ware that these substances are often untested or prescribed by a doctor who knows they will have serious side effects but provides them so that the athletes can fulfill their sick ambitions, * natural willingness toimprove Doping should be legalized because it cannot be eliminated in any way. People will always search for ‘ways to improve performance and there will be those who will try to win at all costs. Responding to chal- lenges is part of human nature. * against human nature People cannot improve their performance by artifi- cial, unnatural means. In this way they fall into a vi- cious circle of achieving better and better results at the cost of becoming less and less human and more like specially grown mutants. * putting an end to hypocrisy All those connected with sport should realize that they cannot maintain this hypocritical stance for- ever. If doping is present, no one should pretend it is, not. For this reason, doping should be made legal, which will putan end to speculation. * relativizing evil Ifa bad tendency is identified, it does not mean that this tendency should be then recognized as valid and legal. In this way, everything is seen as relative, nei- ther good nor evil. Doping is a serious problem in sport and cannotbe relativized. * progress in science and changing attitudes ‘Many substances that used to be illegal are now allowed and recognized. People’s attitudes change with time and in the future more substances will be regarded as perfectly legitimate. In addition, scien- tific progress enables athletes to enhance their per- formance by providing them for example with novel types of fabrie for their sport suits, which minimize friction, Should these also be banned? 128 unaffordable enhancement Athough many drugs are now permitted and ad- vances in science aid athletes by offering specially enhanced sports clothes, they are all costly and should not be used in the world of sport. Not all athletes, especially those from poorer countries, can afford to wear those outfits or take special drugs. Athletes should compete on a level playing field with only their natural ability toseparate them.Drug problem in sport EXERCISES I. Match the words in A, B and C with their synonyms or definitions. 1. constitute 2. enhance 8. impose 4. pursue 5. violate EA 1 anxiety 2. competitiveness 8. contravention 4. endurance 5. hypocrisy 1. novel 2, relative 3. sick 4.ultimate 5. valid a. improve b. break or act against . be considered to be sth a. force upon e. engage in a, the act of breaking a law or rule b. the ability to tolerate pain or to perform for longer ce. pretending to be better than one actually is or following a course of action that one claims to be wrong, 4. the state of feeling worried or nervous . the desire to be better than others a. officially accepted b. cruel and repulsive ¢. final and most important 4. judged only by comparison with sth else . new and interesting IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. CHALLENGE PERFORMANCE PRESSURE RECORD RESULTS RULES achieve get produce show beat. break establish hold set 6. exert impose increase place put 2. break establish formulate introduce observe violate affect enhance improve influence face meet on eb respond to | ® rise to take up 429Drug problem in sport 130 Hl at at in in of of on on on to to to 1, Is there a ban ... using enhanced swimsuits during the championships? 2 We lost the match but we played ... the best of our abilities. 8. Unknown drugs may be a factor that contributes ... the team's better athletic performance. 4. New anti-drug regulations have been imposed ... all participants. 5. Unfortunately, drug testing can only be conducted ... the level of national championships. 6. Allowing new types of equipment resulted ... an unfair advantage for some athletes. 7. Many sportsmen take drugs .. the cost ... serious damage to their mental well-being. 8, Many sport disciplines pose a significant threat ... health. 9. The champion was awarded an MBE... recognition ... his Olympic achievements. 10. Not only ski jumping makes great demands ... the sportsmen's training time. IIL. Refer back to the arguments concerning doping in sport and answer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. 1, Look back at the arguments concerning doping in sport and decide which ones are most/least convincing. Justify your choice. What other arguments can you add to the discussion? 2. What are the rules of fair play in sport? Give examples of behaviour in sport that is based on fair play and some examples to the contrary. Explain your choices. 3, Are certain disciplines more susceptible to doping than others? Which are they? Justify your opinion. 4. Why are so many athletes involved in doping? What do you think they actually achieve? Why? 5. Who is more responsible for the use of illegal performance-enhancing drugs: the athletes or their coaches or trainers? Explain your view. 6. Whyis doping considered unethical and immoral? Explain your position. 7. Would the issue of doping disappear if sport were not so commercialized? Justify your opinion. 8, Athletes keep on competing for better and better results. New records are being broken all the time. Can humans keep enhancing performance in sport indefinitely? Where is the limit? What do you think people will do when they reach this limit? Will sport then make any sense? Give reasons for your view.* extreme sports are based on competing with oneself, not others Extreme or action sports are a viable alternative for all those who want to engage in some physical activity but do not identify themselves with tra- ditional sports based on competition with others. ‘Traditional sport is highly commercialized, a phe- nomenon which is despised by fans of extreme sports. Enthusiasts of extreme sports are rather focused on competing with themselves because they treat the sport as a personal challenge. They seek novelty, opportunity for risk-taking and a constant adrenaline rush, ARGUMENTS 1 EOS “extreme sports are fads that comeand go Extreme sports are not sport disciplines in the traditional sense of the word. They are for the most part artificially created forms of physical activity. Good marketing strategies contribute to their rela- tive popularity: there are specialist TV program- mes, energy drinks, innovative design and original graffiti art, These sports are focused on the indivi- dual achievements of those who want to become the centre of attention, no matter how short-lived or limited toa small group, * extreme sports develop character Extreme sports are said to develop character. Fans willingly confront their fears while jumping off cliffs or climbing steep slopes. By performing such feats they get to know themselves and the limits of their endurance, “extreme sportsare dangerous Extreme sports may be quite dangerous. Their en- thusiasts risk sustaining damage to their bodies (torn ligaments, sprained ankles, broken limbs, per- ‘manent damage to internal organs, ete) or even loss oflife. * special equipment reduces risk and pain ‘The danger involved in action sports is mitigated by special equipment. It reduces the risk and pain that ‘might result from lengthy hours of training. In this, extreme sports are no different from ordinary sports, which in many cases also require special clothing and equipment. * special equipment may be unobtainable ‘The special equipment that extreme sports may use is often expensive and sometimes difficult to pur- chase as specialist shops may not be widely avail- able. This adds to the aura of negative pre-selection offollowers that frequently surrounds these sports. * fans form groups of friends who sharea passion Aperson engaging in an extreme sport boasts a cir- cle of friends who share a common interest, which is frequently their real passion. They form an elitist subculture in which individual feats are respected and admired, especially when a person is capable of achieving what others cannot. All this increases self- confidence and a sense of individuality in each fan. * fans form superficial friendships An individual enthusiast of such a sport may spend considerable amount of time with people who never really become his or her genuine friends. Friendships are formed on the basis of the common discipline that, the closed group goes in for. Much time is devoted to perfecting individual skills. A person may become isolated from others and develop a self-centred, ego- centric attitude tollfe “extreme sports are exciting to watch Spectators tend to be thrilled by observing feats of courage, and extreme sports frequently involve these. Dangerous jumps performed while cycling or spectacular formations of parachutists in the air casily win the admiration of spectators. * in extreme sports common sense is lost As their name implies, extreme sports involve extreme emotions and risks. People often become so blinded by the need for an adrenaline rush and the admiration of spectators that they switch offeommon, sense and head straight towards danger. 131Extreme sports * extreme sports are a good solution for people who dislike following rules [As far as extreme sports, such as free running or mountain biking, are concerned, the rules are quite flexible. Many people would claim that there are some sports with virtually no rules, e.g. bungee jumping or zorbing, It would be better for those with a rebellious streak to practice extreme sports rather than break the law. 6 *participants defy authority and social order Extreme sports are for individuals who like con- fronting authority and discipline. In free running the surrounding city architecture is no obstacle. In bandit canoeing participants select forbidden waterways. Frequently, the original feats qualify for inclusion in The Guinness Book of Records. There is something inherently childish and antisocial in extreme sports, which may lead to people breaking thelaw. * extreme sports are a source of memorable experiences Extreme sports allow an individual fan to take a dif- ferent view on the world. They involve very intense emotions such as fear, excitement or joy and they are bound to leave indelible impressions. Memories of this kind are much more vivid than those connected with playing ordinary sports. 7 extreme sports are not for everybody Extreme sports are very elitist activities. Not only do they require one's time, energy and money but they also demand perfect health on the part ofthe player. However, it might also happen that a very enthusi- astie person, with great stamina and perfect health will not succeed because heor she lacks the talent for such sports. EXERCISES 1 feat 2. ligament 3. rush 4, slope 5. stamina 1. boast 2. confront, 3. defy 4. devote 5. go in for 6. head 7. involve 8. mitigate 9. sustain 10. thrill 132 I. Match the words in A and B with their synonyms or definitions. ‘a. a sudden increase of sth; a surge bb. an achievement needing skill, strength or courage ce, a surface that goes at an angle, e.g. of a mountain or hill 4. the ability to endure much physical or mental strain . a flexible tissue that connects bones in the body a. excite or to please very much b. be a part of sth or include sth. ‘e, move in the specified direction d. have sth and be proud of it ce. reduce; alleviate £. engage in sth or do sth very often g. refuse to obey Ih. suffer; experience sth bad i. give one’s time and energy to sth J. deal with sth bravelyExtreme sports IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. EXPERIENCE HEALTH RISK SPORT 1 2 avoid be fond of, face a do run the engage in take a goin for promote take up = 4. broad be in good direct be restored to extensive enjoy the best of first hand rregain one's hands-on risk one’s practical ruin one’s TE by for for in in in of of on to with 1. Idon’t think there is anything that would qualify you ... membership. 2. When at the top, Roger was blinded ... excitement and almost fell down the slope. 3. Henry is not capable ... doing anything out of the ordinary. 4. Many action sports enthusiasts frequently sustain injury ... their bones. 5. You must focus .. your individual skills so don't look round how others are coping. 6. Those who engage ... dangerous sports should all be questioned by police, 7. Ifyou start mountain biking, you will have a complete different view... my hobby. 8. Do not go ... .. football if you hate team games. 9, There is a great adrenaline rush involved ... parachuting. 10. I can’t identify myself .. those who prefer doing sport in isolation. TIT. Refer back to the arguments presented above and answer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. 1. Look back at the arguments concerning extreme sports and decide which ones seem most/least convincing to you. Justify your choice. What other arguments for and a- gainst action sports can you add to the discussion? 2. Why do people choose extreme sports? To what extent is it reasonable to take up such ac- tivities? Justify your view. 8, Enumerate the features an extreme sport enthusiast should possess. Explain your view. 4, Inwhat way can extreme sports be beneficial to one’s health? Give reasons. 5. What are the dangers and risks connected with extreme sports? Consider dangers and risks to players, spectators and the environment and surroundings. Do you think that some of these sports are more dangerous than others, e.g. bungee jumping vs. free run- ning? Justify your view. 6. What advice would you give to a person who would like to take up an action sport? How would you encourage/discourage this person? 17, “Extreme sports are mostly a product of marketing and the entertainment industry.” ‘Towhat extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 8. Ifyou were to choose an extreme sport for yourself, what type would you go in for? Give reasons for your choice. 133 34The Olympic Games ARGUMENTS * the modern Games commemorate the ancient Greck tradition. ‘The modern Olympic Games date back to the ancient Greek Games, during which all wars were stopped and people concentrated on competitive sports instead. The Olympic Games are thus asso- ciated with peace and the celebration of the human. body. AGAINST the Games belong to pagan tradition. ‘The Olympic Games, because of their origin in ancient Greece, reflect pagan customs that are out- dated and completely forgotten nowadays. They have nothing to do with the Christian tradition, which is, present inal of the Western word. the Olympic Games areexcellententertainment ‘The Olympic Games should be held because they provide first-rate entertainment for spectators and viewers all over the world. The biggest sports competition in the worlds a welcome interlude from sad and depressing news. People crave the pleasure ‘the Games bring and they should not be deprived of it, * the Olympics are an easy target for terrorists ‘The events during each Olympic Games are attended by a great number of people. Such great gatherings are an easy target for terrorist organisations which may destroy the peacoful atmosphere during the Games. Therefore, the Olympics should not be or ganized so as not to endanger the lives of so many people unnecessarily. * sports fans bring money to the region Innumerable sports fans usually flock to the Olym- pic Games. Generally, they have a lot of money to spend and they do so in the city where the Olympics are taking place. This results in a huge financial boost to the region that hosts the Games. * money spent on the Games could be spent on more urgent issues A lot of money is needed to organise the Olympic Games. In fact, the organisers often have to transfer money to the Olympic budget leaving other projects, such as unemployment reduction, underfunded. This may lead to budget deficits and neglecting important social programmes. * equality is the Olympic ideal The Olympic Games are the most significant sports event in the world. Representatives of almost all countries participate in the competition. Sportsmen from small and poor countries are offered the chance to compete with athletes from the world’s most de- veloped nations, which promotes the idea of equal- ity. * theidea of equality is only theoretical ‘The idea of equality may sound noble but it is no- where near the truth. Sportsmen from rich countries have access to the most effective training methods and they are given better care than participants from small and underdeveloped countries. As a result, the ‘competition is not fair because athletes from poorer regions are at a disadvantage. * the Games promote sports and fair play ‘The Olympic Games help promote public interest in sports and the principle of fair play. Live broadcasts from the Games arouse people's curiosity about various sports disciplines; they want to know what the rules are or how the performance is assessed by the judges. 134 * fair play is overshadowed by bribery Judges sometimes take bribes from lobbyists from a given country. Their judgements are then not based on the performance of particular sportsmen or sportswomen but on the amount of money they received to support them. Judging is often biased and the idea of equality is fictitious.The Olympic Games pe * young and promising athletes are promoted 6 “talented sportsmen are often overlooked As the Olympics are watched by millions of people ‘The best athletes often go unnoticed. All the media all over the world, the competition is the best attention is unjustifiably turned to sportsmen or oceasion for young athletes to make a good ap- _sportswomen who treat the Olympics as a chance to pearance in front of the world. Ifsuch young sports- _gain public attention. They are in the spotlight and men or sportswomen do exceptionally well, this may _ talented athletes are often left in the shadows. be the beginning oftheir dazzling career. * the Olympics bring into focus the issue of the 7 the Olympics may destroy the natural environment natural environment The biggest sports event in the world requires If the Olympic Games are hosted by a region witha _ buildings capable of accommodating thousands of beautiful natural environment, the Games may _ athletes and spectators. Such infrastructure often foster an interest in the environment. Spending for _has to be developed from scratch which may upset the preservation of the environment may increase _the delicate equilibrium in the natural world. considerably. The organiser's natural environment A month-long sports event should not take prece- benefits from the interest generated by the Games. dence over an age-old balance in nature. EXERCISES I. Match the words in A, B and C with their synonyms or definitions. 1. boost a, balance 2 bribe 8. equilibrium ina particular way 4, lobbyist great public attention pe 5. spotlight enterprise e. an increase of sth EA 1 age-old iiearenirs 2. biased b. existing for a very long time 8. dazzling ¢. ina manner that cannot be excused 4, noble 4. unfairly favouring one thing in a group 5. unjustifiable . decent; honourable 1. arouse a 2. crave desire strongly 4, flock 5. foster IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. CHANCE COMPETITION PLAY a a; combat hidden contact native field raw outdoor unexploited b. sb who tries to persuade people to vate |. money offered in return for help in a dishonest, b. encourage or promote sth 8. deprive . go or gather in great numbers d. provoke a feeling or attitude ce. take sth away from sb SPORT TALENT fair foul rough 135The Olympic Games 136 give enter lose hold iss a organize stand stage throw away take part in withdraw from Et for from in in into of over to to with 1, In ancient Greece women were deprived ... the right to enter the Olympic stadium. 2. Many television stations compete ... one another ... the right to broadcast the Olympic Games. Tused to play tennis as a teenager, but after all those years I think Id need to start seratch. 4. I can't distinguish between all those athletes, not even those who are ... the spotlight. 5. We didn’t see the opening ceremony of the Games because we were on holiday and had no access ... television. 6. In the case of the Games, live broadcasts should always take precedence ... taped programmes. ‘The organizers of the Olympic Games should turn their efforts ... the elimination of doping. 8, Fans of rare sports are always ... a disadvantage because there is hardly any coverage on TV. 9, Td love to participate ... the Olympic Games some day. As a spectator, of course! 10. The fact that an athlete from a Third World country came last in the race brought ... focus the poverty in which he had to train, TIL. Refer back to the arguments for and against the Olympic Games and answer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. 1. Which of the above arguments are most/least convincing to you? Justify your choice. Add any other arguments to the discussion of the Olympic Games which you feel are relevant. 2, Should the Olympic Games be held more often? Justify your opinion considering the athletes’ health, the money involved in the organisation of the Olympics and viewers’ expectations, Nowadays, the Olympics are a commercial rather than a sports event. Should the or- ganizers return to the real meaning of the Olympic Games, i.e. noble competition? Justify your view. 4, What makes an athlete more recognizable in the world — his or her good performance during an important sports event or appearing in advertisements? Justify your opinion and give examples. 5. Should the Olympics be organized only by wealthy countries or should the poorer ones also be given a chance? Consider the Olympic budget, increased interest in the host country, ete, In what way can the Olympie Games help promote world peace and cooperation between nations? Which is better: attending a sports event or watching it on television? Why? 8. Which Olympic Games do you consider more popular and more widely recognized, the winter or summer ones? Which sport disciplines are your personal favourites? Justify your opinion and give examples toillustrate it, Athletes want to perform better and better. Training requires a lot of effort and injuries may sometimes happen. That is why some sportsmen or sportswomen take forbidden substances to enhance their stamina and overall performance. What could be possible solutions to the drug problem in sport? a 9.Alternative medicine the holistic approach to the patient Alternative medicine treats the whole person, not just one part of the human body that is suffering from an illness or pain. It is a result of seeing the human being as a system of integrated elements, with the body and the mind affecting each other. ARGUMENTS 1 AGAINST “not treated seriously or tested properly Alternative therapies have not been tested properly yet. Many of them are not even treated seriously by contemporary science. Alternative medicine has some fanatical practitioners, who do not add ered- ibility toits results. *non-addictiveand with no side effects Alternative therapies are for the most part non- addictive. It means that they do not make the pa- tient dependent upon a particular type of medicine, as may be the case in conventional treatments. In fact, alternative medicine causes few side effects due to the use of herbs and other natural remedies. *expensiveand risky Alternative therapies may be expensive to start and. continue. The majority of complementary medicine therapies are unavailable in the health service Because they are less known to the patients, they are not considered reliable enough. The therapy is often not worth the price one has to pay for it. Some side effects may be unknown, for example herbal medi- cine may be toxic. * based on faith asa motivating force The suecess of alternative therapies depends largely on the patient's faith in them. Faith is an extremely powerful force that can bring about desired changes in the body only because they have been triggered by the patient's mind, * not based on hard facts For the patient to be convinced of the usefulness of a particular therapy facts rather than faith are im- portant. Medical research should provide more con- vineing, hard evidence to show the effectiveness of treatment. Itis not enough tobelieve in the success of| therapy. * faith as only part of the truth ‘The effects of alternative medicine are not based only on the patient's faith in the treatment. There is, a small but growing body of research that suggests the effects are genuine and they have nothing to do with the patient's conviction that the therapy will be successful * limited application Alternative medicine has only limited application, because it can deal successfully only with some illnesses and ailments. It would mean taking a great risk trying out a complementary therapy in the case of more serious diseases like cancer. *self-treatment Some alternative medicine practitioners claim that it isin fact the patient who treats himself or herself. He or she awakens the healing forces in his or her body, which defends itself against the disease. Herbs, special oils and concoctions only support the patient in the process. Because the patient’s mind takes an active part in this process, apart from regaining physical health he or she may also become psychologically stronger and more self-confident. * the placebo effect only Alternative medicine is based to a large extenton the placebo effect only. The placebo effect is the im- provement in health not caused by the treatment. itself (e.g. based on medicinal herbs) but rather by the patient himself or herself who betieves in its success. However, frequently special equipment is needed to diagnose the illness well before it is too late. Only traditional medicine can provide that support. * often pleasant for the patient Some alternative treatments, for instance aroma- therapy, may even be pleasant for the patient, who can calm down and relax for the time of the treat- ment. It may help not only to cure a particular il- Iness but also in the general feeling of happiness, because the patients seen as the whole person, 138 “actual effects more important It is not important whether a given treatment is pleasant or not. What really counts for the patient is the final effect, that is whether the therapy has brought about the desired result. Also, the patient is more interested in long-term effects, notin the pleas- ure that lasts only several minutes.Alternative medicine EXERCISES I. Match the words in A, B and C with their synonyms or definitions. 1. affect a. cause 2. bring about b. influence 8. heal e. make sth happen (usually negative) 4. regain 4. cure; become healthy again 5. trigger e. recover; get back, e.g. an ability or a quality HA addictive a. traditional 2, complementary D. real 8. conventional ¢. one that adds sth new to the main tendency 4. genuine . treating each thing as a whole which is more 5. holistic important than the parts that make it up , one that makes you unable to stop doing sth 1. ailment a, a medicine that brings no effect but the patient 2. application believes it does 3. concoction b, an unusual mixture of various ingredients 4. convietion . the practical use of sth 5. placebo 4. a strong belief or opinion e. an illness which is not very serious IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. APPLICATION HEALTH REMEDY RESEARCH THERAPY a 2 3. bein enjoy good convincing employ maintain detailed get |. neglect |e genuine have promote serious undergo recover systematic use ruin thorough 4. 5 limited apply practical prescribe | ain} universal recommend widespread use 139Alternative medicine 140 TB about against. down for from into out to to upon 1, Tsuspect I am becoming more and more dependent ... my headache pills. 2. Ihave tried ... several remedies and none seems to work. 3. Itis difficult to predict if this new treatment will bring ... any improvement in the patient's condition. 4. Classical music helps me to calm ... and forget about everyday problems. 5. Overeating may result... stress. 6. I think alternative therapists are, .. the most part, thieves and fraudsters. 7. Many illnesses are largely due... a stressful lifestyle and sheer neglect. 8. How can we defend ourselves .. bird flu? 9. Flowers usually add a touch of optimism ... a hospital room. 10, Hardly any scientists conduct serious research ... alternative forms of therapy. III. Refer back to the arguments for and against alternative medicine and an- swer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. 1. Which of the arguments concerning alternative medicine do you consider most/least convincing? Justify your choice. Provide any other relevant arguments of your own. 2. Give examples of alternative therapies that you have heard of or are familiar with. What isyour opinion of them? Justify your views. 3, Inwhat sense does alternative medicine take care of the whole person? Give examples to explain the point. 4, To what extent can various medicines become addictive? Give examples to illustrate your point. 5. Alternative therapies are most frequently not financed from the state budget in the health service that is available to all taxpayers for free. What can be the reasons for it? 6. What risk do patients take if they decide to use an alternative therapy? Give examples to illustrate your point. 7. Is the patient's faith in recovery an important factor in regaining health? Justify your opinion. Why are scientists often unwilling to take up research into alternative medicine? Provide reasons for your arguments. 9. To what extent is giving a placebo to the patient a form of cheating? What idea is the placebo effect based on? In what cases can it be useful? 10. Have you ever undergone any form of alternative treatment? For example, have you ever, seen a chiropractor, an acupuncturist, or a faith healer who laid his or her hands on you? Ifyou did, what was the effect? Ifyou did not, why not?SMOKING 1N PUDT1C PlaCes: should it be al lowed? ae ARGUMENTS “cigarettes are a perfectly legal product Cigarettes are a legal product and smokers have every right to indulge in the habit of smoking if they so choose. Just as with alcohol, we must work out practical solutions to regulate the sale of cigarettes s0 that they are only purchased by adults, who are mature enough to be aware of both the dangers of smoking and the pleasure they say it brings. 1 *® smoking is an unpleasant habit ‘Smoking is considered a disgusting habit. On leaving the place where people smoke, our clothes and hair give off an unpleasant smell. In the street non- smokers are forced to inhale whiffs of cigarette smoke from some pedestrians. People should not be forced to inhale cigarette smoke against their will. smoking is not the most important social problem Smoking is not regarded as an important social problem. The authorities should show more interest jin making citizens’ lives safer, for people are generally more interested in reducing crime rates, street violence, drug abuse, alcoholism, graffiti, or the number of car accidents than smoke inhalation. * smoking and passive smoking cause a lot of illnesses, which are a social problem ‘Smoking has a detrimental effect on people's health. Lung cancer and various heart diseases are regarded, fas consequences of smoking. Passive smoking can also have a similar effect. By inhaling cigarette smoke, non-smokers can develop diseases like asthma or bronchitis. The eosts of medical treatment, * smokers are discriminated against asa minority ‘The attitude towards smokers is rather negative and they are unnecessarily demonized, Due to anti- smoking campaigns, smokers are regarded as social outcasts, Such extreme views must be opposed. In a democratic country everyone should have equal rights and should not be discriminated against in any way, Smokers constitute a significant minority, who also want to exercise their freedom to smoke. * smokers should respect the rights of non-smokers ‘The general attitude towards smokers is negative because by smoking in public the smoker is forcing everyone in the vicinity to inhale smoke. This is in fact against non-smokers’ personal freedom, as they have no choice but to accept the situation. Smokers are a minority and democracy does not boil down to controlling the majority by the minority but rather to amutual acceptance of differences. “we should show more understanding and tolerance forsmokers ‘Smoking does not endanger others to a great extent: it is not linked with violent behaviour or crime. ‘Smoking is an addiction and smokers need nicotine regularly. We can’t force smokers to stop doing what they consider a pleasure and a necessity. Although they should be careful not to indulge in their habit around others, we too should demonstrate more tolerance towards them. * smoke-free areas contribute to.a better quality of life for smokers and non-smokers If smoking in publie places is banned, both the lives of non-smokers are improved and smokers them- selves are made to take better care of their own health. Apart from ensuring a safer environment for non-smokers, smoke-free areas generally contribute toa reduction in the number of smokers and in the number of cigarettes that they light up. * smoking can bea way to relax and reduce stress People get stressed at home and at work and those who smoke use cigarettes to relieve the stresses of everyday life. Banning smoking in public areas would become another stress-inducing factor. Also, smoking helps people to relax in other situations. ‘Some smokers say they need no more than coffee and cigarette to start the day. ® many people find smoking abhorent and repulsive Opponents of smoking in public places claim that observing smokers is not a pleasant experience. Not only do they look unaesthetic but they also produce clouds of smelly smoke. It is hardly relaxing or stress-relieving for a non-smoker to spend a lunch break or an evening at a restaurant in such cireum- stances, 141smoking in public places: should it be al lowed? * to ban smoking is to restrict personal freedom One of the most important features of democracy and the market economy is freedom of choice. Banning smoking in all public places is tantamount to restricting the personal freedom of all citizens who smoke. For this reason, there should be smoking and non-smoking areas in publie places, In this way people can always have a choice that is not enforced but that they make on their own. 6 * to ban smoking is to take care of all citizens in equal measure If smoking is banned in public places, it does not mean that one minority group's freedom is re- stricted. Itrather means taking care ofall citizens in equal measure. Their health should be the concern of the state, because if more citizens are healthy, the state also benefits by not having to spend more pre- cious budget money on financing the health service. * smoking and non-smoking areas bring profit to places where people socialize Introducing smoking and non-smoking areas in public places makes a lot of financial sense, because itcontributes to a good, relaxing environment where smokers and non-smokers can socialize in the same place, for example in a pub, and enjoy themselves, Smokingisan important aspect of social life. 7 * smoking and non-smoking areas increase maintenance costs Introducing smoking and non-smoking areas in public places increases the costs of maintenance. Ventilation and air filtration systems contribute to better air quality in the building but they cost the proprietors considerable amounts of money to in- stall and then maintain. EXERCISES 1. constitute 2. give off 3. indulge 4.inhale 5. purchase 1. detrimental 2. enormous 8. extreme 4, mutual 5. tantamount, 1. maintenance 2. outeast 8. proprietor 4. vicinity 5. whiff 142 I, Match the words in A, B and C with their synonyms or definitions. a, buy bb, breathe in ¢. form; make up d. produce (a particular smell) e. let yourself have or do sth that may be considered bad for you a, be almost the same as sth else b, harmful . very large 4. far from normal or acceptable €. one that shows attitudes of two persons or groups towards each other a, the area around a place or a person 1b, keeping sth in good condition ¢. a smell that can be felt for a very short time 4. owner of a place or a building . a person not accepted by others and sometimes forced to leave homeSmoking 1N pub!l1Cc places: should it be allowed? II. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. EFFECT FREEDOM HABITS SMELL SOLUTIONS i 2, impractical beneficial Linleffective dramatic sensible havea | detrimental temporary harmful [unreasonable long-term 3 4 5 cherish faint annoying endanger persistent ; disgusting guarantee strong filthy limit sweet offfensive value regular [unhealthy Bi against. down for in in in of on to to to up 1, Both smokers and non-smokers are affected by cigarettes, though not ... equal measure. 2. The risk of many diseases is largely due .... smoking. 3. Ifyou indulge ... addictions, they damage your health. 4, Does the problem of smokers boi ... only .. tolerance and personal freedom? 5, There was no one standing ... the vicinity ... the smoking area. 6. [have a friend who insists on smoking ... my will whenever she visits my place. 7. Hypnosis is said to have a good effect ... smokers. 8, Smokers light ... a cigarette when they are stressed. 9. Smokers sometimes forget that they should also show consideration ... the needs of nonsmokers. 10. Following a strict non-smoking policy is tantamount ... admitting that smoking is illegal. 143smoking in public places: should it be allowed? 144 III. Refer back to the arguments for and against smoking in public places and answer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. 1. Look back at the arguments for and against smoking in public places and select those that sound most/least relevant to you. Justify your choice. What other arguments can ‘you contribute to the discussion? 2. What would be the consequences of introducing a total ban on smoking cigarettes? Consider various perspectives: the country’s economy, investments, people's health, working conditions, social unrest, black market, ete. Consider the prohibition of smoking in public places. Where would you ban smoking altogether? Where would you introduce special smoking areas? Where would you allow people to smoke without imposing any restrictions? Justify your views. 4, Why have similar measures as those in relation to smoking not been introduced in the ‘case of alcohol consumption? Give reasons for your opinion. 5. In what sense and to what extent do special smoking and non-smoking areas in public places contribute to people's freedom of choice? To their personal freedom? To respecting the rights of others? To developing attitudes of tolerance and acceptance of others? 6. Read the following agruments in favour of smoking in general and find suitable counterarguments: a, Smoking breaks are conducive to a better working environment. People generally work better and more efficiently if they take several short breaks during the day. b. Smoking can be regarded as part of the entertainment culture: in pubs and clubs people meet to enjoy themselves and smoking is part oft. cc, Smoking cigarettes makes it easier for people to make friends. They talk about their habit and feel closer to one another because they are members of the same group. 4. Smoking is a clear indication of intelligence. If you look at photographs of famous people, scientists, actors and others, you always see them with a cigarette. ‘They are the people of success, 7. Which of the two groups, smokers or non-smokers, is in a worse position? Whose freedom is being restricted more? Give examples to justify your opinion. 8. Which of the two values, individual freedom of choice or the whole nation's health and well-being, is more important? Give reasons for your view. 8,PL PEE ehAnimal experiments * animal experiments allow advancement in the treatment of diseases Experimenting on animals helps to develop vaccines against diseases like rabies, mumps or tubereulosis. In fact, various kinds of antibiotics and cancer treat- ment rely on animal experiments because their re- sults are irrefutable. ARGUMENTS 1 ECS * experiments carried out on animalsare often useless ‘Testing new brands of cosmeties or cleaning products on animals only gives profit to their producers. It is not indispensable to mankind and it brings lots of suffering toliving creatures. Frequently animal tests bringno definitive results. “animals contribute tollfe-saving techniques The first organ transplant operations and open- heart surgery were carried out experimentally on animals. They considerably accelerated the intro- duction of these types of treatment on humans. Now- adays animals are used in laboratories to test new drugs. * new drugs can be tested in different ways Even if they are not that accurate, different methods like using cell cultures or synthetic tissue can prove ‘as effective as animal testing and are sometimes much more convincing. By using statistics to esti- mate the effect of a new drug we can reduce the num- ber of deaths oflab animals. ® animals arealso living organisms Neither artificial tissue nor computer simulation ‘will ever substitute the reaction ofa living organism. Experimenting with animals can provide answers to ‘many research questions. * results of experiments can be misleading ‘An animal’s response to a particular treatment can be totally different from the reaction of a human be- ing. This leads to undermining the results and neces. sitates the repetition of the experiment. * the life of an animal is less valuable than that of a human being Animal biology resembles to a certain extent human biology, but animals are not humans. That is why they may be employed in conducting experiments that would save human lives. “animals should also have the right to live Animals feel and suffer the same way as humans do and should be treated with due attention. In the 21st century we should fully realize the harm man is doing to the world of animals and try to stop it. animals are also killed for food and sport Death during medical research is more justified. We can survive in good health without eating meat, whereas new medicine equals millions of human lives saved. Cruel sports like hunting or bullfights annually take away a similar number of animal lives. *animal suffering is unnecessary From the moral point of view, killing animals in laboratory experiments is nothing different than murder. Alternative methods of testing are being improved all the time and should soon replace animal experiments. * animals don't suffer much in medical experiments Experiments frequently involve the instant death of the animal. Not much pain is felt. Some research suggests that animals do not feel pain the way humans do. They experience physical discomfort but itisnot exactly physical pain. 146 * animal reactions to treatment are not fully known Lab animals are exposed to considerable stress even while being locked up. Experiments provide an even greater dose of suffering. Such animals react with fear to all human activity. All these factors can influ- ence animal reactions in unpredictable ways.Animal experiments EXERCISES I, Match the words in A, B and C with their synonyms or definitions. 1. accelerate a. weaken 2. conduct 1b, give a good reason for sth 3. justify . go faster; increase speed 4. substitute d. perform or do sth 5. undermine . use sth instead of sth else TA 1. advancement a, medical treatment in which the body needs to be cut 2. brand open 3. cell cultures b, an infectious children’s illness in which the neck 4. mumps gets swollen and painful 5. surgery ¢. development; progress d. a type or trademark . a group of the smallest units of an organism, grown, for the purpose of an experiment 1. considerable a. that cannot be disproved and must be accepted 2. definitive 1b, causing sb to believe that sth is not true 3. indispensable c. fairly large and important 4. irrefutable 4d. final and not subject to change 5. misleading . so important that it is impossible to do without it IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrases. ANIMALS DEATH HARM TREATMENT 2 administer caged provide domesticated receive | orn lab respond to trained undergo wild 3. . be ready for bring cause cause die a natural come to escape do face protect from lead to 147 38Animal experiments 148 Bh away for in on on out to to to to 1. The laboratory rabbits reacted badly ... the new drug, 2. The experiment was carried ... in the presence of a large audience, 8, The lab tests brought considerable harm ... the rats as they are now paralyzed. 4, The mouse was exposed ... the effect of the new medicine for exactly five weeks. 5. It is difficult to rely ... the results of only one experiment therefore it is necessary to conduct more 6, Do you know how many animals are killed ... sport every year? 7. Many lives have been taken ... in the fight with AIDS. 8. The best animals to test new drugs ... are rats because they multiply quickly and they are cheap to keep. ‘9, Vegetarians claim that meat protein is not indispensable ... people to keep good health. 10, Recently there has been a great advancement ... open-heart surgeries. IIL. Refer back to the arguments for and against animal experiments and answer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. 1. Which of the arguments presented above do you find most/least convincing? Justify ‘your choice. 2. ‘To what extent do you agree with the statement that killing an animal is the same as murdering a human being? Why? 8, Would you buy a medicine or cosmetics with a label saying “not tested on animals”? Would you use them or would you rather choose the one tested in the traditional way? Justify your view. 4, To what extent do marches and demonstrations against animal testing actually bring any results? How can the activity of ordinary people change the practices of large corpo- rations? 5. Shouldn't we focus more attention on banning bullfights or fox hunting than on useful animal experiments? Justify your opinion. 6. Some American scientists using animals in their research have been threatened by the Animal Rights activists. The protesters start sending angry letters and gradually become more and more aggressive. Whatcan be done to prevent tragedy? Is there any limit to animal rights? To what extent can they be treated in the same way as humans? Where do animal rights end and human only rights start? Explain your answer. 8 “The only alternative to experimenting on animals is experimenting on people.” To what extent do you agree with this statement? Why? in* people are overwhelmed by information People may feel overwhelmed and confused by the amount of useless information they receive. It is ne- cessary to carefully select the facts that are pub- lished and broadcast so that only the really vital information is given to the public. ARGUMENTS 1 PACS * people have the freedom of choice People themselves should have the right to choose the kind of information they want to get. One cannot inhibit people from deciding for themselves what papers they want to read and what television sta- tions they want to watch. “censorship guards against slander ‘The media may sometimes be biased against certain institutions or parties, and publish unfavourable reports of their actions. They can unjustifiably create a strong public resentment towards a par- ticular person, party or institution. Some kind of control over the media is needed to prevent libels frombeingspread. * free media help uncover the truth ‘The media may be an important element of dis- covering some seandals among the ruling elites. Some shameful incidents would never have been re- vealed if it had not been for the inquisitive jour- nalists and reporters. The media should be free to present both the positive and negative aspects of agivenissue. “offensive data is kept from people ‘Some people might not wish to see or read accounts involving unpleasant details. Such people need to be protected from being exposed to stories that include explicit violent or sexual behaviour. Censorship saves people from receiving undesirable informa- tion, * people choose what is of interest to them ‘There are people who wish to see some sex and violence in films or read about it in newspapers. They should not be deprived of such a possibility. People should be allowed to select from a variety of topics they consider proper for them. * there is more fair play on the media market The existence of censorship requires all media to publish or broadcast the same material chosen by a body of censors. Fierce competition between vari- ous media moguls is eliminated, which results in the decrease in the number of dirty tricks played on the rivals, " free competition improves quality Lack of censorship leads to growing competition on the media market. Different publishing houses are vying for the best coverage ofa particular event. The more competition, the better the quality of service, * censorship stimulates creativity Censorship is a stimulating factor. When journalists work under the pressure of censorship, they usually devise unique ways of circumventing the prohi- bitions. This results in pieces of news presented in an original manner which is so sophisticated that the censors see nothing wrong with it, while intel- ligent people can easily decode the true message. * people work best when unrestrained ‘When journalists are not restricted in any way, they can reveal the full extent of their talent, They can tackle a wide range of issues in their work and cover all the topies that the audience find interesting, Moreover, they do not have to spend a lot of time trying to evade the bans and prohibitions but they can focus on the news itself. “censorship filters out the inessential data People tend to abuse the freedom of expression and they cannot fully appreciate its value, as the market is full of inaccurate, nonsensical and irrelevant information. Introducing censorship is beneficial to the public opinion since only the relevant and well- grounded datais offered. * freedom of expression should be uncurbed The freedom of speech and expression is one of the inalienable rights of man, Every human being should have the possibility to voice their views freely and without any limitations. Access to a diversity of facts and opinions should also be unrestricted. 14939 Media censorship “censorship helps protect children Censorship is particularly essential in the case of children. Young minds in their formative period are especially susceptible to messages they get from the media so they must be brought up without access to offensive material, 7 censorship isa dead letter Censorship very rarely works perfectly. People are usually very inventive and easily find ways of bypas- sing artificially imposed bans. Its irrational to keep alaw thatis toa large extent ineffective. EXERCISES 1. coverage 2. diversity 8. libel 4, mogul 5. resentment A 1 explicit 2. fierce 3. inquisitive 4. vital 5. well-grounded 1. cireumvent 2. impose 3. inhibit 4. tackle 5. vie and correct phrases. an act of do domestic public reign of all round free goin for a een open 150 I. Match the words in A, B and C with their synonyms or definitions. ‘a. written statement that says unfairly bad things about sb bb. a feeling of deep and bitter anger . variety d. the way the news is presented by reporters for newspapers, radio or TV e. a very wealthy, powerful or important person a, ruthless; marked by extreme and violent energy b. clear; expressed in full detail . absolutely necessary 4. based on facts or good judgement e. showing curiosity a. compete with sb; engage in a contest b, avoid sth through cleverness and wit . force the acceptance of sth d. prevent from doing sth by some controlling influence e. take action in order to deal with sth IL. Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations BROADCAST COMPETITION LAW VARIETY VIEW VIOLENCE 2 abide by the a loophole in the break the the long arm of the activities tife a of | opinions topics reasons5. 6 critical delayed ofr) front . direct global national optimistic news TB against from from for for for in of of to to under 1, The famous actor is looking for bodyguards to protect his family ... paparazzi. 2, Emotionally unstable people are easily susceptible... persuasion. 38. Left-wing newspapers are often biased ... right-wing politicians. 4, Watching violence on television is thought to be harmful ... young children. 5. Television channels are vying ... the largest audience. 6. The government spokesperson attacked the newspaper for its unjustified criticism the raling party. 77, In totalitarian regimes governments are ... favour ... strict media censorship. 8. Do you think people can benefit... the growing competition on the media market? 9. The tabloid came ... fire .. publishing the secrets of the Royal Family. 10. The humble reporter took no credit ... his exceptional piece of journalism, IIL. Refer back to the arguments for and against media censorship and answer the following questions. Use your own words if possible. . Nowadays people are generally against media censorship. However, it seems as if censorship was necessary at some points. Do you think that censorship concerning certain types of programmes (e.g, for children) should be reintroduced? Justify your opinion. 2. The media are said to be closely connected with particular political options and do not present an objective view of reality. This results in unjustified attacks on certain political figures. What can be done to improve the situation and make the media present amore balanced view? ‘3. What are the possible situations when the information given by the media is actually censored? Provide some real-life examples. 4, The Internet is full of offensive matter. Some say that access to such content should be restricted, while others claim that the Internet should be a truly free medium. Isit atall ‘worth trying to control the Internet? Justify your opinion. 5. Can great works of art be created if the artist is in any way restricted? Or perhaps it is only under constraint that real masterpieces come into being? Present and justify your opinion. 6. John Milton, an English poet, said, “Give me the liberty to know, to utter, and to argue freely according to conscience, above all liberties.” People often sacrifice everything they have in order to retain freedom of speech. Should freedom of expression be protected at all costs, or perhaps there are circumstances when it should give way to some other priorities? Justify your position. 7. Whatare the possible benefits and drawbacks of being a censor? 8. To what extent is censorship of works of art sometimes justified? Consider religious feelings and aestheties. 151Television * television has an informative function Television gives us wide access to information. It is one of the most important sources of knowledge about political, social and cultural events in today's world. Provided that we watch TV selectively, there is a wide range of really worthwile programmes to choose from, ARGUMENTS 1 AGAINST * television presents.a distorted pictureof reality People who tend to watch TV indiscriminately might believe that what they see, for instance in soap operas, is real life. Television affects their mode of thinking and they often try to imitate the behaviour of characters. They might, among other things, mis- take passion or infatuation for real love. * television has an educational function TV teaches us a lot about the surrounding world through different kinds of high-brow, educational programmes and films, like nature films, docu- mentaries, political and cultural programmes. It en- lightens us and makes us sensitive to other cultures, traditions and values. * television promotes violence One of the effects of watching TV is an increase in ag- {gression among the viewers, especially among teen- agers and children. Watching action films and thril- lers often leads to violent and cruel behaviour and uncontrolled fits of anger. * television entertains viewers ‘TV provides a wide variety of entertainment. After an exhausting day at work or school we can relax in front of aTV screen, watching a good comedy, a game show or some other interesting programme. television makes viewersaddicted ‘TV is like a drug and has a mesmerizing effect on some people. Once they sit in front of it, flipping through the channels, they become ensnared and captivated and they forget about the whole world. As a consequence, they neglect their duties, family and friends, * television isa social ritual Watching TV serves as a popular evening get- together in many families. This way of spending time unites not only family members but people all over the world, especially when events of great im- portance take place. We could witness it in April of 2005 when Pope John Paul II died and people in all corners of the world watched the funeral ceremony. * television isa relationship killer TV has an adverse impact on society. It leads to the deterioration of interpersonal relationships and weakens family bonds. People spend most of their leisure time watching TV and they have hardly any time for conversations, family festivities and meet- ing friends. * television promotes health and fitness Contemporary society is more and more aware ofthe importance of sport and fitness to maintain health and well-being. Therefore, TV offers a variety of sports programmes and it also organizes campaigns to promote a healthy lifestyle, like the non-smoking campaign or“Aday withouta car”, television promotes unhealthy habits ‘TV commercials often advertise unhealthy food, like different kinds of junk food (fizzy drinks, crisps or pizza). Consequently, people lead a coach potato life- style and develop bad eating habits. They stay glued to the TV screen for many hours eating a lot of snacks, which leads to obesity. * television is inspiring It is common knowledge that travel broadens the mind, Various programmes present differences be- tween cultures and traditions and thus encourage us to visit other countries, meet interesting people and get to know their beliefs and customs. 152 * television makes us passive People often believe that watching TV gives them a boost of energy, whereas they become more and more passive and their energy is sucked out. They don’t know how to organize their time and their minds become idle,Match the word: 1 captivate 2. enlighten ‘8, ensnare 4 provide 5. witness 1. bond 2. commercial 8. couch potato 4, deterioration 5. festivity 6. get-together 7. infatuation 8, obesity 9. thriller 10. well-being 1. adverse 2. contemporary 3. high-brow 4.idle 5. mesmerizing Television EXERCISES A,B and C with their synonyms or definitions. a, make sb do sth against their will or unable to escape b. attract and keep sb’s attention . supply d. be present when sth happens, for example an accident or erime e, make sb wiser; make sb understand sth a. an informal meeting b the state of becoming worse ¢. the state of being overweight 4. a person who watches a lot of television ¢. an advertisement on the radio or TV £. a film that tells a story about a murder or crime g. a celebration or special event hh, a close relationship or connection ia feeling of comfort, health and happiness J. a short-lived, unreasonable attraction for sb a. fascinating; holding attention b. lazy . belonging to the present time; modern . sophisticated (about a book or a film) e, unfavourable IL, Fill in the spaces below in A and B with the words given to form collocations and correct phrase: CAMPAIGN DEVELOPMENT MAINTENANCE NEGLIGENCE VARIETY 1 effective intensive afn] | long-running presidential vicious carry out claim need pay require 2 aceuse sb of be guilty of deny prove sue for 4. amazing Snarestre ln} pH vast wide 5. assist encoura facilitate | the .of sth promote support 153Television 154 DB against for in of on out through to to to 1. My granddad says that watching too much TV leads... stupidity. 2. Contemporary teenagers only flip ... books, not paying attention to any details 8, Recently there has been a 15% inerease ... TV ratings. 4, My neighbours hate TV and they spend days with their ears glued ... the radio. 5. With your new hairstyle you can be easily mistaken ... that soap-opera actress. 6. TV commercials have a destructive impact ... children. 7. The government has launched a campaign ... smoking. 8. Alcoholies are not aware ... harmful effects alcohol has on their life. 9. Can television teach people how to be sensitive ... other people's needs? 10. After watching TV I feel like all my energy has been sucked ... of me. IIL. Refer back to the arguments for and against television and answer the fol- lowing questions. Use your own words if possible. 1. Which of the arguments above aboutttelevision do you agree/disagree with? Why? 2. Provide some other arguments for and against television. Give examples to illustrate them. ‘To what extent and in what ways does television influence our lives? Justify your an- swer. ‘What can parents do to reduce the negative influence of TV on their children? Explain your view. 5. Doyouthink that a campaign in favour of “A day without TV” at schools would be a good idea? What would such a campaign make children aware of? Justify your view. 6. Ifyou were an executive manager of a TV broadcasting company, what changes would ‘you introduce in the programme schedule? To what extent would you satisfy the bad tastes and educational needs of the viewers? 7. What are the unhealthy habits that television develops in viewers? Give examples to illustrate your answer. In what ways does TV influence interpersonal relationships? Discuss positive and neg- ative impact of TV on interpersonal relationships. 9. Give examples of popular television programmes. Do they have any educational value or are they pure entertainment? Give possible reasons why these programmes are popular.The Inte rnet ja “access to information The Internet can be compared to a vast library where a visitor ean find almost everything he or she is looking for. The information is very easy to find as it is enough to use one of numerous search engines and the data will appear on the computer monitor. ARGUMENTS 1 ECS irrelevant and harmful information No one controls all the content of the Internet web- sites and portals. Some of them contain pornographic or violent material, Since search engines are not real people to whom you can deseribe in detail what you want, most of the information you receive is not relevantataall. stay in touch with friends When a friend or relative lives in another city or country and you cannot meet them in person, the Internet can turn out to be an ideal tool to keep in touch with them. For instance, you can use e-mail or one of the many messaging programs which enable you to write or even speak to someone. “adverse effect on relationships Being in touch with people via the Internet may change your perception of them and of interpersonal relationships in general. It may well turn out that you will be afraid of direct contact with someone because you will not be used to it. This may lead to an inability to make friends in real life. “meeting new people ‘Thanks to Internet chat rooms and dating websites you can meet many new acquaintances, strike up friendships and even start a romantic relationship. ‘There is no direct face-to-face contact with strangers and so shy people may find it easier to look for friends on the world wide web rather than in real life. ® stumbling upon strangers whoare dishonest ‘When you chat with another person via the Internet, the contact is only indirect ~ you cannot see or hear your interlocutor. Besides, when you meet a new per- 50n you can never be sure that he or she is what they claim to be. They may lie to you to present them- selves in a better light or, worse, they may be crimi- nals looking for victims, “exchange of goods and doing business Selling, buying or advertising via the world wide web is easy and comfortable since everything can be settled quickly and without leaving home. Online auction sites, for example, are extremely useful for such purposes. * dishonest individuals When you do business, want to purchase or sell something on the net, you may be easily deceived by dishonest customers and companies. You may not be sent payment for the thing you have sold or receive ‘g00ds of poorer quality than you expected. * intimacy and anonymity ‘The Internet guarantees intimacy and anonymity because every visitor — unless they have to reveal their identity ~ may use a nickname. This ensures a fecling of safety on entering virtual reality. No one is able to see things you do not wish to reveal about, yourself. You can do exactly what you please and ignore those who annoy you. * leaving traces for unidentified hackers Anonymity is never ensured as each computer has its Internet Protocol (IP) number. It is revealed in the servers of websites that you visit while surfing the net. Every time you click on a link, you leave a trace on the web. In addition, computer hackers may get illegal access to the contents of your hard disk and ‘you may lose valuable data. © all media in one place Acomputer with an Internet connection can replace other media: the radio, television and newspapers, Practically all radio and TV stations broadcast their programmes on the web. Paper and online editions of newspapers are almost identical. * fast connection needed In order to make use of the media, you need to have a high speed Internet connection, which requires more costly equipment and a reliable Internet ser- vice provider. Slower connections at best result in long waits, 185