HomeHomeOctober 2007
Developing Intellectual Curiosity
With the rise of the Internet and World Wide Web and the scramble among news organizations to remain relevant, viable, and profitable, there's a new direction developing in news coverage--the "making a difference" theme. A couple weeks ago, Newsweek's American edition cover story was about healing the world. Every Friday, NBC Nightly News carries inspirational stories about people who are making a difference in their lives and communities. CNN offers its own stories on "heroes".
In a complex and rapidly changing world, it's only natural for people to want to know that their lives amount to something--that they can stand out and stand up and make the world a better place while they are here. News coverage is about the unusual and not everyday events, so it can be overwhelming for news consumers to hear about unceasing problems and challenges faced today, and about those problems lurking down the road in the distant future.
Additionally, in America, the combination of war weariness and aging has the Baby Boomer population frightened and uncertain about the future. Certainly, that seems to be the case in my hometown, as the Star Tribune newspaper reports that Minnesotans are feeling gloomy about the state of the nation, although we seem to feel good about our own state.
The news organizations are finding that tired consumers need balance in what they read and hear. Inspirational stories are everywhere, if you look hard enough, and they provide hope that making a difference is entirely within the realm of possibility.
Making a difference in your own life
If you want to change your world, how and where do you begin? The best way to start is to develop your own intellectual curiosity and passion. With Internet access and a library card, it doesn't have to cost a great deal either. It only takes time and a willingness to discover more about a topic, and the determination to get at the heart of the issues--and to learn all the sides of the story, even the parts you don't agree with.
Figure out why and how other people believe the way they do. Ask questions, and then listen--really listen--to the answers. Imagine what it might be like to see the world from the other person's perspectives. What were the forces and influences that shaped other viewpoints? What is the history behind the issue? Leave emotion aside as you search for answers.
Also, learning to argue for the "opposite side" of a topic will make you intellectually stronger. Again, you don't have to agree, but you can appreciate where others are coming from, and more easily find common ground on an issue. Leave fear behind, and your world will begin to change.
And remember that changing a life, especially your own, takes time, and usually happens in small increments.
Teresa
tcallies@Hotmail.com
News, Resources and Other Interesting Tidbits
International Education
USA Today's Tracey Wong Briggs' article, "College students struggle on history test" describes the results of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute's report, "Failing our Students, Failing America: Holding Colleges Accountable for Teaching America's History and Institutions." Can you pass the test? Find out here.
Meanwhile, Jeff Shelman of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management is now requiring incoming students to have an international experience before graduation.
Down Under: Changing the world a hug at a time
In Sydney, Australia, "Juan Mann" appeared on Andrew Denton's show recently to discuss his "Free Hugs" campaign. Will this daring individual change the world with hugs? Who knows, but if you ever visit Sydney's Pitt Street Mall and experience a few seconds sharing a hug with the warm and welcoming Juan, you'll certainly feel a bit better about the world.
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