I'll sleep on it!

TESTING

2010-01-08T13:29:00.000+01:00

My life at the moment...

2009-09-24T10:19:00.002+02:00

...is kind of busy. I've always wondered why everyting has to happen at the same time... It always does. Why??? I have three weeks to write three 5-page essays, the subjects are: grammar, american civilization and american literature. I HAVE to meet to the deadline in time - AND PASS THE TASKS - in order to take the exams.

I'm feeling the pressure bigtime. In addition to all of this I have to read grammar. Grammar, grammar and more grammar. The worst part is how difficult these pages are, I've never encountered ANYTHING as difficult as advanced english grammar. Gee, just hope I'm able to suceed on the exam.

And of course, there's a lot to do at home too: be a friend, be a brother and family member, work out (new programs just arrived, johoo) and last but not least; work! My job at Meny is perhaps not the most exciting one, but it's good money and man do I need them as a student??? OH YES.

Kia Kaha!

Back to blog-ing?

2009-09-09T14:33:00.002+02:00

More than two months have passed since last time I updated this blog. I've decided to start blogging again about my life at the University of oslo (where I take varied courses in English) and other stuff... Stay tuned for updates!=)

Michael Jackson

2009-07-01T19:24:00.007+02:00

Last thursday I recieved the breaking news stating that the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, was death after suffering from cardiac arrest. To me, a huge fan, it was really hard to realize that a great idol of mine no longer excisted. A great singer, composer, dancer and producer - in other words a complete entertainter - is no longer with us.

Jackson was, as mentioned, without doubt one of the greatest artists of all time. Beginning his career as a five year-old, his musical repertoar spands over five decades, including 56 awarded songs, 13 number-one-hits and more than 750 million albums sold. His first studio-album "Thriller", provided the world with more than 7 number- one-hits, and is the world's most selling record being sold in more than 109 million copies.

Jackson's excentric personality has made him a target for the tabloids his entire life, causing him to have no private life. This situation finally made Jackson withdraw from his career, his last tour was the "HIStory Tour" which ended in 1997. He released the album "Invincible" in 2001, but was not an immediate success.

However, Jackson was scheduled to make the ultimate comeback with his tour "THIS IS IT", a series of 50 concerts which were intened to be held in 02 arena, London, premiering this summer on July 13th. I was lucky enough to get tickets to this event, and now it really hurts knowing that with the death of Michael, the world has not only lost an artist of outstanding character, but I will never have my dream of watching him perform live achieved. A dream which for many years seemed impossible to achieve suddenly became a goal possible to reach when I got the tickets. It was almost to good to be true.

And as it turned out, it was...

I'm back

2009-06-29T17:37:00.004+02:00

Hi! This blog was originally made because blogs were an important part of our curriculum at school last year. Now, that the school is over, it is no longer mandatory to update this journal. I've chosen to do it anyway. My plans for this blog in the future is to update it with important news (like I've done the whole time), scientific articles about something that captivates my interrest (also like I've done this entire year) AND non-important, trivial posts that may not have any serious aspects by it at all (New from this day on). My posts will provide text with a combination of seriousness and objectivity, but also my thoughts and mood of the day as well as personal meanings and emotions.This blog hasn't been updated since the end of term, but now I'm starting up again.

Oh, it sure was a nice feeling writing on this blog again.

... just hope there are some people out there who wants to follow it?

Important aspects of the American political system

2009-06-02T00:40:00.005+02:00

The following paragraphs will explain different aspects concering the American political system. Let's start with federalism:

FEDERALISM is a keyword in modern, western politics and is basically a political philosophy. Normally the term describes a system in the government in which sovereignty is divided constitutionally between a central authority and other political units like states (or provinves). The system contribute to a democratic way of leading. In our case, the United States is most important, and federalism in the United States is the evolving relationship between state governments and the federal government of the United States. Watch Fred Thompson talk about the imortance of federalism:

THE CONGRESS is the bicameral (bicameral: several houses) legisalature of the federal government of the United States (wikipedia). As said, the congess consists of two houses: the senate and the house of representatives. Both senators and representatives are chosen through direct election.

THE SEPARATION OF POWERS
The French philosopher Charles de Secondat Montesquieu and his declaration "De l’esprit des loix" from 1748, is widely acknowledged as the philosophical and idealistic foundation of the principle of the separation of powers.
Montesquieu disliked the fact that the legislative power often acted as the executive one as well, and he worked hard to prevent this; for one thing he wrote an assertion stating: “When the legislative power is united with the executive authority in one and the same person (or in the same higher organ of a state), no freedom can be found because there will be tyrannical leaders who create laws only to execute them in a tyrannical way”.
His views and visions were a reaction to France’s more noble community’s massive waste of money and state resources. Montesquieu himself was exceedingly critical to the way that the king and his associates – richer persons like businessmen and the aristocracy– had governed the French state. His declaration and public disparagement of the state were both the forerunner and the actual triggering factor to the French revolution.
He introduced the world to a new way of dividing powers in a state, and I intend to discuss both the advantages and disadvantages (if there are any), of the principle of separation of powers.

WHAT THE PRINCIPLE INVOLVES
Here’s the deal: there are three branches: the executive, the legislative and the judicial. The executive branch is the governor. The executive’s job is to carry out the laws and make sure they are obeyed. Branch two: the legislative. Think legislature! Their job is simply explained: they are making laws. Thirdly, the judicial branch, made up of courts and judges. Their job is to make sure that the laws are fair.
So, what it is that makes this system special and has done it ever since 1789, is the fact that the US government actually works because these branches balance each other out. If one division goes too far, the others can simply pull it back. Let me exemplify it this way: each branch is responsible and conscientious for the things the other branches are not. Not only responsible, but so in charge that none of the other branches can do the other thing. For example; the executive branch can not make a law, the legislative branch can not decide whether a law is reasonable for everybody or not, and the judicial branch can not carry out a law.
There are some real benefits for you and me with this sort of deal. Think about it: if every branch could do the job of every other branch, then one could possibly take over. In other words, in a scenario like that, you would only need one branch, which means no more democracy. And no democracy is no good.
So, the next time somebody says that one branch or another should step in and set another branch aright, like telling the court how to do justice, think about what’s at stake; the answer to that is basically everything.

ARE THERE ANY DISADVANTAGES AT ALL?
I have discussed the principle of separation of powers with lots of different people lately, and when it comes to whether there are any disadvantages connected to this system or not, the opinions seem to differ. There are no known disadvantages of this system, but after several discussions I have decided to mention two aspects that may appear and be looked upon as if they were disadvantages.
1. Costly
Running and administrating the three branches of the state is often considered to be far more expensive and resource-demanding than maintaining one single government like in a unitary state.

2. Time-consuming
The branches are independent of one another, but sometimes new laws, requests and initiatives have to be negotiated through lengthy consultations between the three branches. Bureaucracy equals to slow processes.

The principle of separation of powers, which is the foundation of both the Norwegian and American state and constitution, is doubtlessly a system with more advantages than disadvantages. The system confines corruption and prevents any abuse of authority. The principle ensures that the execution of power is dispersed on three independent authorities.
One of the most popular benefits with this system is the fact that some of the power belongs to the people itself. They elect senators for the senate, and representatives for The House Of Representatives.

SOURCES:
(1): Wikipedia Norge - http://no.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maktfordelingsprinsippet
(2): Wikipedia US - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Separation_of_powers
(3): Den norske domstol – http://www.domstol.no/DAtemplates/Article____3060.aspx?epslanguage=NO
(4) http://www.chateaulabrede.com/img/gallerie/esprit_des_lois.jpg (bilde 1)
(5) US election – www.uselection.com (bilde 2)

To first year students

2009-05-26T13:13:00.003+02:00

Dear First Year Student!

I hope you are satisfied with your choice of High School, nevertheless can I promise you a great time here at Sandvika. You are probably a bit anxious about beginning on a new school, but do not worry, the next three years will almost certainly be the best three years of your life.

As you soon will experience you have no limitations when it comes to using the internet. You are free to visit Facebook, MSN and so on if you want to, but my advice to you is to pay attention during classes as well as using your pc to take notes. I guarantee that this simple, but still effective method will save you for lots of work later and improve your grades =)

These years will change your life and you'll discover who you really are=)

Enjoy your time at Sandvika!

Presentation Day - again!

2009-05-08T08:24:00.002+02:00

Today I'm going "On Air" again! I am presenting a project I have been working on for a while, it's about the use of critcism in English Literature. Kind of interesting to see if there are any differences from how criticism was uttered some centuries ago compared to today. My slides are simple and the only reason I'm using them is to illuminate some points.

Today's presentation

2009-05-05T08:46:00.001+02:00

A very simple presentation. Just needed to illuminate some important points and show a few pictures.

Sizzlers

2009-05-03T21:04:00.006+02:00

Sizzlers: Although I created this blog to write about news in our world and the society, I need to express my joy over the new Les Mills programs. This post is for those of you who haven't participated in a BodyPump 70- or BodyAttack 65-class yet. Awesome tracklists and choreography!

BODYPUMP 70 Sizzler: The key focus of BodyPump 70 is perfect timing. This means your body spends more time under tension and this will get you shape fast! The music in this release really ‘goes off’ - and keep an ear out for beats you’ve never heard before in BodyPump.Game on in the Squat Track! Challenge yourself with more resistance. Don’t be fooled by the slow start and the Pop-Rock nature of the track - the back half bites hard with four sets of Singles and Bottom Halves back-to-back to finish! Go a little bit heavier in the Chest Track - Infinity 2008 is awesome and builds anticipation before you pump it! The new tempo means your muscles will be under tension for the maximum amount of time.True Believer will inspire you to give it all you’ve got in the Back Track, before Christine Aguilera’s Keeps Gettin’ Better drives you through the Triceps Track. You don’t need but get ready to feel the burn in the Pushups and Kickbacks! Rock through the Biceps Track with Nickelback’s Gotta Be Somebody where Singles are the name of the game.
Take a deep breath before the Lunge Track. Sash! is back for this endurance track that is VERY intense and includes Lunges and Squats with heavy weight. Ouch! Another classic Rock track is in the house with Thunderstruck motivating you through the Shoulder Track. There’s a new move in the Abdominals Track - The Rotator Plank. Kanye West’s Love Lockdown is unlike any Abs Track - get ready for a dark, dim, sexy beat!

BODYATTACK 65 Sizzler: BODYATTACK® 65 is about challenging yourself and your members, and providing enough options so everyone can achieve their personal best! The music will keep your energy levels high and you’ll be moving continuously with hits from Fall Out Boy, Vanessa Hudgens and Lady Gaga. That’s Not My Name provides the perfect energy for Track 2. This track has something for everyone with numerous options for both beginners and advanced members. You’ll be on fire in Track 3 with a huge amount of energy coming from the big moves and big music. You’ll reach your first peak with the new Squat Jump in Track 4, Tubthumping, before hitting the upper body with the Walking Back & Forward Plank in Track 5. This is a different way of conditioning the core and shoulder girdle stabilisers with gentle lengthening of the hamstrings as you move backwards and forward. Sing along to Rhythm Of The Night in Track 6, while getting up close and personal with your members as the class comes together on the floor for the Running Track. There’s work to be done in Track 7! Welcome on the tennis court! Be light and lifted in the Run and low and strong in the Bounces, like you’re waiting for a serve! Track 9 is challenging, with the energy pumping all the way from start to finish, but you’ll be motivated to keep at it with the aptly named Jump. An awesome peak for an awesome result!

Tracklists:
BODYATTACK 65:
1. Everywhere - Master Blaster
2. That’s Not My Name - Kopy Katz
3. Baby I’m On Fire - DJ Razorsharp
4. Tubthumping - Smash & Grab
5. I Don’t Care - Fall Out Boy
6. Rhythm Of The Night - Amber Luck
7. Don’t Want To Go To Bed Now - Southern Light
8. True Faith - Kelly Duncan
9. Jump - Tony Moroni & The HardOutCrew
10. Sneakernight - Vanessa Hudgens
11. Pokerface - Lady Gaga
12. The Best Is Yet To Come - Hinder

BODYPUMP 70:
1.Warmup: Don’t Leave me with the Light On - Danzel
2.Squats: It’s All Your Fault - Pink
3.Chest: Infinity 2008 - Guru Josh Project
4.Back: True Believer - E-Type
5.Triceps: Keeps Gettin’ Better - Christine Aguilera
6.Biceps: Gotta Be Somebody - Nickelback
7.Lunges: Raindrops (Encore Une Fois) - Sash! feat. Stunt
8.Shoulders: Thunderstruck - Hinder
9.Abdominals: Love Lockdown - Kanye West
10.Cooldown: If I Were A Boy - Beyonce

Social studies: Swine Flu

2009-04-27T14:18:00.003+02:00

An important aspect of our society is our health status, and as a new, and serious sickness is developing I fint it right to blog about it.

Health officials worldwide rush to contain a spreading swine flu outbreak. As many as 103 deaths in Mexico are thought to have been caused by swine flu.

Historians have always said that a new pandemic like the Spanish Influenza, the black death and SARS will strike our world and kill millions of people sooner or later in the future.

May this disease, the swine flu, be that next pandemic?

The latest news right now (14:23 GMT) is that four persons have been hospitalized in Denmark due to symptoms related to the disease, and one man is being tested in Haugesund.

I'm grateful for living in a priviledged country like Norway in which millions of vaccines have been stored for a situation like this, but I sure hope we never reach the step were our survival depends on them. My thougts go to victims in Mexico and to their families.

The Nothing-To-Do Generation

2009-04-21T10:44:00.003+02:00

I recently read an article in which the author tries to determine what British youths are like today. The author uses the following words:
“Theft, burglary, twoc (1), assault”

Hm, kind of generalizing I would say, but the sad fact is that this is actually the case. Young Britons differ from other youths by how they spend their spare time. The typical British youth is a hanging around a lot, basically doing nothing at all. Sadly, many old people are intimidated by the attendance of these youths.
However, the youths are aware of their unusual existence. In the article (2), one admits: “There ain’t nothing for us to do. We would rather be sitting the warm”.
This could be the problem exactly.

Compared to youths in the rest of Europe, young Britons are living much more “rough” lives. In a poll mentioned in the article it is stated: “Measured against German, French and Italian youngsters, British 15-year-olds are drunk more often and involved I n more fights, and a higher proportion have had sex.” (2)

Personally I’m thinking that this article should inspire British politicians to advance this cause, yeah, to make an effort to change this negative trend.

NOTES:
(1): - Explanation of the term “twoc” – taken without owners consent
(2):- Article made by BBC NEWS

A little status update concerning Written Senior Project

2009-03-31T12:24:00.004+02:00

As told earlier on the blog, I've chosen to do a project on suicides in the United States. The statistics show that the US has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Did you know that in the United States there's a person committing suicide every 16 minutes? Look at it this way; it simply means that 20 people have killed themselves during our English class today...

I've done research, gathered information and analyzed statistics. The writing remains.

In addition I intend to use the novel "The Virgin Suicides", by Geoffrey Eugenides; a fantastic and compelling novel about five bizarre teenage sisters who commits suicide.

The Power of Media: Barack Obama on Jay Leno Show

2009-03-25T10:21:00.003+01:00

Jay Leno is a famous man in America. He is famous because of his success with his talk show called “The tonight show” – a show which is has become legendary in American television history. When someone like Barack Obama appears on that show, it can result in both positive and negative consequences.

One of the advantages is obviously publicity. The Tonight Show is a very popular show with many viewers, and guests have the opportunity to reach out to various people. The setting in the show is sort of informal, this is the time to chill and talk about other stuff besides politics. This setting enables the viewers to get an insight in how Obama is when it comes to his personality – they simply get to know him better.
I believe this is an advantage.

All publicity is good publicity, can’t seem to find any disadvantages about Obama’s visit.

Take a look at Obama's visit at Leno's here: http://online.wsj.com/video/obama-on-the-tonight-show-with-jay-leno/0EDC9754-D988-42FE-A131-EC9C8EDEFD6C.html

OneNote

2009-03-25T09:38:00.006+01:00

OneNote is software developed by Microsoft to take and organize your notes. The program also provides opportunities for information gathering, and multi-user collaboration (this way members of a group can work offline, and all their work can later be synchronized).

OneNote can be used on any type of computer, but its full functionality is best suited for laptops, especially tablet computers (at which you can use your handwriting instead of a keyboard).

The interface is easy and reminds one of the classic old loose-leaf notebooks, and it can be used to collect pages which are printed with a virtual printer, information sent from other applications or files “dragged” directly into the application. The facilities I just mentioned combined with the fact that one can add media recordings or links, and that the program provides an ingenious print-screen-function, really makes this software suitable for collecting and organizing your information.

However, the thing I like the most in OneNote is its way of indexing, and how it allows me to search within all my information.

I will recommend OneNote – it is a VERY good program, but it’s kind of overrated. It won’t do the work for you even though someone describes it that way.

Northern Ireland situation

2009-03-14T23:55:00.004+01:00

Rioting has been a part of Belfast's daily life since the arrests of three men in the killings of two soldiers in Northern Ireland. CNN, BBC NEWS and several other medias report that petrol bombs have been trown by angry men towards the police. Gangs of youths are occupating the streets, but no one has been injured... yet.

The two British soldiers were shot dead at a base in Massereene, in Antrim, while they were preparing for duties in Afghanistan. Two men with automatic rifles shot them as the soldiers picked up a pizza delivery at the barracks.

The situation is obviously difficult and I inted to follow it.

Written Senior Project

2009-03-03T12:45:00.002+01:00

I've chosen to do a project on suicides in the United States. The statistics show that the US has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. The novel "The Virgin Suicides", by Geoffrey Eugenides, is a fantastic novel about five bizarre teenage sisters who commits suicide. I intend to use the book in my project.

The separation of powers

2009-03-03T09:52:00.005+01:00

The French philosopher Charles de Secondat Montesquieu and his declaration "De l’esprit des loix" from 1748, is widely acknowledged as the philosophical and idealistic foundation of the principle of the separation of powers.
Montesquieu disliked the fact that the legislative power often acted as the executive one as well, and he worked hard to prevent this; for one thing he wrote an assertion stating: “When the legislative power is united with the executive authority in one and the same person (or in the same higher organ of a state), no freedom can be found because there will be tyrannical leaders who create laws only to execute them in a tyrannical way”.
His views and visions were a reaction to France’s more noble community’s massive waste of money and state resources. Montesquieu himself was exceedingly critical to the way that the king and his associates – richer persons like businessmen and the aristocracy– had governed the French state. His declaration and public disparagement of the state were both the forerunner and the actual triggering factor to the French revolution.
He introduced the world to a new way of dividing powers in a state, and I intend to discuss both the advantages and disadvantages (if there are any), of the principle of separation of powers.

WHAT THE PRINCIPLE INVOLVES
Here’s the deal: there are three branches: the executive, the legislative and the judicial. The executive branch is the governor. The executive’s job is to carry out the laws and make sure they are obeyed. Branch two: the legislative. Think legislature! Their job is simply explained: they are making laws. Thirdly, the judicial branch, made up of courts and judges. Their job is to make sure that the laws are fair.
So, what it is that makes this system special and has done it ever since 1789, is the fact that the US government actually works because these branches balance each other out. If one division goes too far, the others can simply pull it back. Let me exemplify it this way: each branch is responsible and conscientious for the things the other branches are not. Not only responsible, but so in charge that none of the other branches can do the other thing. For example; the executive branch can not make a law, the legislative branch can not decide whether a law is reasonable for everybody or not, and the judicial branch can not carry out a law.
There are some real benefits for you and me with this sort of deal. Think about it: if every branch could do the job of every other branch, then one could possibly take over. In other words, in a scenario like that, you would only need one branch, which means no more democracy. And no democracy is no good.
So, the next time somebody says that one branch or another should step in and set another branch aright, like telling the court how to do justice, think about what’s at stake; the answer to that is basically everything.

ARE THERE ANY DISADVANTAGES AT ALL?
I have discussed the principle of separation of powers with lots of different people lately, and when it comes to whether there are any disadvantages connected to this system or not, the opinions seem to differ. There are no known disadvantages of this system, but after several discussions I have decided to mention two aspects that may appear and be looked upon as if they were disadvantages.

1. Costly
Running and administrating the three branches of the state is often considered to be far more expensive and resource-demanding than maintaining one single government like in a unitary state.

2.Time-consuming
The branches are independent of one another, but sometimes new laws, requests and initiatives have to be negotiated through lengthy consultations between the three branches. Bureaucracy equals to slow processes.

CONCLUSION
The principle of separation of powers, which is the foundation of both the Norwegian and American state and constitution, is doubtlessly a system with more advantages than disadvantages. The system confines corruption and prevents any abuse of authority. The principle ensures that the execution of power is dispersed on three independent authorities.
One of the most popular benefits with this system is the fact that some of the power belongs to the people itself. They elect senators for the senate, and representatives for The House Of Representatives.

Movie: "The Constant Gardener"

2009-02-16T00:08:00.006+01:00

Here are some of my thoughts about the movie THE CONSTANT GARDENER. I watched it some time ago and found it really interessting

RELATIONS BETWEEN THE WESTERN WORLD AND AFRICA
In the movie “The Constant Gardener”, relations between development- and industrial countries are “beautifully” and accurately illustrated. For many years, the differences between the poor countries in Africa and the consumer societies in the western world have been huge and many. Corruption and unfair abuse of power have been a problem for decades. In the movie, a typical corrupted industry is depicted. An alliance established by tainted, capitalistic leaders in Europe and corrupted, dishonored Africans shows us the dishonest co-operation that has existed for many years, and still does.
The problem is manifested in the movie through a pharmaceutical company pretending to have divine power when it comes to managing the lives and deaths of the innocent population. The movie is a reaction to this industry, which still exists. While doing research for this essay, I read that the movie is based on actual happenings from Kenya. Pharmaceutical companies are actually testing drugs on the citizens, resulting in many deaths. The bodies were, and they still are, being buried and forgotten for all time.
The relationship between the industrialized north and the poor countries in Africa may be good officially. Embassies and commissariats are common, even in Africa, but in every part of our world there is deceitful underworld accessible, and too many people takes part in it. In today’s Africa despotism and unjustified dictatorship still takes place in numerous states, the leaders here are often, sadly, easily persuaded to sacrifice their own people’s well-being for their own winning.
The problem is, as I said, very well portrayed in the movie, which can be categorized as a conspiracy thriller. The story-telling is non-linear, and the fact that it is jumping back and forth, back and forth, truly underlines the confusing and cruel reality that are to be found in the conspiracies. It is pretty interesting to see how the passive main character, Justin, slowly starts to dig and seek after the truth, and how his wife, Tessa, is shown as a confident and offensive character – even though she dies pretty fast. This gives Justin’s passivity time to grow throughout the movie as he solves the mystery and catches up with the criminals behind the conspiracy.
The relationships are once again manifested through the scenes from the slum-area in Kenya. Using hand-held cameras the director creates a feeling that this is some sort of a documentary showing the sad contrasts, which literally are like black and white. Midways in the movie, a camera that films a golf course which apparently is reserved only for white people, suddenly starts to pan to the left filming a place consisting of small houses falling to pieces –the slum. This was an incredible shot manifesting the huge contrasts between the industrialized north and the developing Africa – between blacks and whites.

SCENE ANALYSIS
“The Constant Gardener”. The first scene depicts Tessa’s leaving for Loki, a scene in which we understand that there’s a special relationship between her and the diplomat Justin Quayle. She tells him to leave the airfield because of the heat. My personal interpretation of this scene may seem peculiar, but nevertheless is it important for me to give a picture of it. After the valediction, Tessa walks self-confident towards the plane as the picture fades into white. Now that I know the outcome of her send-off (she dies), I interpret the fading as some sort of a walk into the heaven. The fading brings us to the next scene of significance; the beach-scene. There’s absolutely no exchange of words in this scene, only fascinating and curious use of camera adjustments. The angles used in this scene are interesting, in most parts of this sequence the camera leans towards left or right, providing us with close-ups of both the beach and the ruined vehicle. A symbol used in this lake-scene is the animal life, as something bad happens – (the murder of Tessa and her companion) – vast flocks of birds collectively escapes the immense area in a hurry. These amazing shots (obviously taken with the help of a helicopter or a plane) show us great pictures from the lake and the nearby nature. I believe that the last and most important scene is the one in which sandy conveys the sad and heartrending report to Justin. The scene is captivating because of the acting performances. Ralph Fiennes’ recital is mesmerizing. It is quite interesting to see how the camera is used in this scene; the camera is focused at Justin during almost the entire scene, showing us how his reaction to the devastating message slowly unfurls. The paradox is how he is keeping his plants alive while he is receiving the message – he is gardening – at the same time as his wife has withered. Seems to me like he is continuously (constantly) searching for the truth – using his familiarity as a never-ending gardener to dig up information - from this time on – using gardening as therapy because he can’t figure his problems out within (internally).

The Falklands War

2009-02-13T11:19:00.003+01:00

The Falklands War

In the early eighties the Argentines started to play with the idea of taking The Falkland islands, a group of islands situated outside the coast of their own country, back. The Falkland Islands however, have been in British “custody” since the middle of the nineteenth century.

In pursuit of the claim of the Islands, Argentina invaded the Falklands in 1982, precipitating the two months long skirmish between Argentina and the United Kingdom – which led to the victory of the United Kingdom and the withdrawal of the Argentine forces. It was important for England to protect the island because of the fact that most inhabitants there are of British origin – and of course; the assault was looked upon as an attack on British territory.

Argentina was warned and advised against a war by UN, but still they acted threatening towards Britain. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher decided to go to war.

The war lasted from April 2^nd – June 14^th.

The war was mainly fought in the air and at sea. It is without doubt the largest and most brutal and atrocious naval battle fought since the Second World War.

In total 907 were killed during the 74 days of the conflict.

“This is England” - Run with the crowd, stand alone, you decide.

This is England is a fantastic movie and story about a troubled boy growing up in England, set in 1983. He comes across a few skinheads on his way home from school, after a fight. They became his new best friends, even like family. The movie is a beautiful depiction of how those who lost their beloved in the war deals with it – but also a criticism of the Thatcher-administration who chose to go to war and defend the islands, resulting in the deaths of many British soldiers.

My hometown

2009-02-12T10:01:00.003+01:00

My Hometown

I’ve finally managed to write a post about where I live. I live in Bærum, a municipality in Norway and a suburb of Oslo. I’ve lived here all my life - and I really like it here – can’t imagine living somewhere else.
Some quick facts:
• The total area of Bærum is 191,3 square kilometres, including 2,9 square kilometres of lakes and rivers, 16,7 square kilometres off arming land, and 107,5 square kilometres of forest.
• The population is approximately 107 000 (2008).
• Bærum is situated in the county of Akershus, 15 kilometers and 15 minutes south-west of Oslo.

Bærum do have it all: the best cinema in Europe, the biggest mall in the Scandinavia, the most educated population in Europe, the best schools in the entire country and of course a beautiful countryside.
Located to the west of Oslo (the capital in Norway), Bærum is a part of “Stor-Oslo”, in English: “Big-Oslo”. Bærum is believed to be the wealthiest municipality in Norway, the average income here is USD 76 000 $, and the houses here are often referred to as upper class. This is what I don’t like about Bærum, it is way too expensive (Medium Big Mac Menu: 7-8USD) and our exaggerated consumption makes me kind of sick. I believe that we instead of using so many resources on new cars and expensive fashion clothes should use our highly educated citizens to follow Mr. Gore’s example and be good role models.

But as I said: I love it here.

Just like a pill

2009-02-05T09:51:00.003+01:00

A 13-year-old chinese girl attempted suicide to save her father who is suffering from cancer. When her father was diagnosed with cancer the girl became so depressed that she ate 200 sleeping pills--so that her father could have her organs when she was dead.

She failed and ended up in the hospital's intensive care unit, drifting in and out of consciuosness.

I believe this story is so unique and so touching in many ways. It is of course frightening and tragic that a teenage girl would end her life to save her father -- but at the same time it is so moving...

Kind of a special incident, I sure hope I don't get to see those kind of stories too often..

What students want

2009-02-03T11:00:00.013+01:00

In this lecture professor Michael Wesch, Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology, Kansas State University, discusses both successful and unsuccessful attempts to integrate emerging technologies into the classroom to create a rich virtual learning environment.

WEB 2.0
The laptop is without any doubt a revolutionary device allowing us to access the great possibilities a computer can offer, almost anywhere! The computer provides a great opportunity for learning, but it is also a huge source of distraction for undisciplined students. Facebook, MSN, Twitter, Blogs etc..., are all WEB 2.0 -services which contributes to the sad fact that many students are having a hard time trying to concentrate and learn.

In a survey conducted by Michael Wesch, it turned out that more than fifty percent of students disliked school. Still, when he asked "Do you like to learn?" ALL of them raised their hand...

Today's students like to learn, but obviously not in school with today's way of teaching.

The first challenge is: how can we implement computers and new technology in to the classes in a good way? How can we minimize the students' use of MSN, Facebook etc?

I believe the professor illustrated the problem very well: - We need to make the students knowledge-able, not knowledgeable. They need to learn how to learn.

The real point
The point is: when the humans first learned how to write, it took decades - maybe numerous centuries - before people got used to it. Nowadays, students have to adapt in to new technology, just like they had to with writing many years ago. The ultimate challenge is NOT to teach the students how to use a computer, but how to use it in the right way in a learning situation.

Barack Obama: The 44th President of the United States

2009-01-21T21:51:00.005+01:00

Yesterday we were all witnesses when CHANGE came to America. It is my great pleasure to write this post about Barack Hussein Obama, (born August 4, 1961), the 44th and the current President of the United States of America.

He is the first African American to hold the office, as well as the first President born outside of the Continental United States.

He takes over a country with serious and complicated problems. The challenges are many, but Barack Obama promised: "they will be met!"

I can do nothing but to wish him good luck in the next four years:)

" To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West: Know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy "

- Barack Obama in his inaugural speech.

Inauguration-day!

2009-01-20T08:42:00.008+01:00

Today he will be President. Who? Barack Obama of course!

The Inauguration ceremony will take place at 5-6 p.m.Norwegian time, and I'm very curious about his speech. What will it be like?

First of all, let me explain the term Inauguration...

The most common usage of the term is in the context of a formal investiture whereby an individual assumes an office or position of authority or power. The term is usually used in reference to a politician's assumption of the duties of head of state or head of government (e.g. the President's inauguration). An "inaugural address" is the presidential speech given at this ceremony which informs the people of his intentions as a leader.

Read more about Inauguration speeches here.

In USA (and the rest of the world as well), the expectations are always enourmous before a new President get's installed, and I must say, I'm kind of excited too... Just listen to it; USA's first black President ever... Maybe it's a small step for Obama, but it sure is a HUGE step for the humanity in general and when it comes to equality of oppurtunity and treatment, Obama is a living example of the phrase "Everyting is possible. Yes, we can".

David Cameron defends the Union

2009-01-19T22:22:00.006+01:00

David Cameron defended the Union and delievered a great speech in Edinborough.I have been listening to it right now; and Cameron’s incisive and very zealous advocacy of the maintenance of the 300 year old Union between England and Scotland sure seems to be one of the best speeches I've ever heard.

In the speech he promised to remove any sign of separatism, and made it clear that Scotland and England are at the strongest when co-operating. Together, the two countries are stronger, safer, fairer and richer.

Cameron told the audience that the preservation and continuance of the United Kingdom was at the top of his list of priorities, making sure that he would always prefer "an imperfect Union to a perfect divorce."

(1): - Take a look at the speech here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV9UjjpmG10

Our World Right Now

2009-01-16T09:56:00.008+01:00

The Gaza Situation
Urgent push for Gaza ceasefire
Diplomatic activity intensifies in the Middle East over the terms of a possible truce in Gaza, but there is more violence overnight. Different medias in the world now operates with numbers implying that a thousand people have lost their lives so far in the Gaza war. Of the people who have been killed, at least 800 were civilans. The Gaza Gridlock also seem to cause severe hunger as both medical and nutritional supplies don't get in to the city centre.

A new president
President Elect Barack Obama will be installed the Tuesday next week, and many people are excited about what his Inauguration speech will be like... We can do nothing but wait and see...!

Sri Lanka crisis
As the media's attention are drawn against Barack Obama and the Gaza War, a crisis is developing in Sri Lanka. Many hard fights have developed lately between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil and the legitimate government. The Civil war has reached a critical level and many innocent lives are being lost every day.

Glogster

2009-01-12T14:04:00.001+01:00

Parliaments in Britain

2009-01-06T13:30:00.001+01:00

A little presentation about the different parliaments in Britain.

For stores, an unmerry Christmas

2008-12-26T19:09:00.001+01:00

The 2008 holiday sales season is one of the worst for retailers in decades, CNNMoney reports, as consumers' concerns about the economy and job losses crushed the typical year-end shopping exuberance. "I don't see any reason for retailers to be rejoicing at all," said Britt Beemer, chairman and founder of America's Research Group.

SOURCE: (CNN)

I'm a bad singer

2008-12-12T09:53:00.003+01:00

I have to apologize for the fact that I have not been keeping my blolg updated lately, but now I'm back...=)

I know this blog is supposed to be about Social Studies (what happens in our world), but I have to post a paragraph my "singing skills"...

I am a bad singer! Despite my eager enthusiasm, whenever I try to sing it sounds a bit like I’m trying to strangle a cat and the windows shatter in to a thousand pieces. Secondly, every time I open my mouth to chant someone yells desperately at me and tells me to shut the fuck up. There’s simply no future in show-biz for me.

Hostages held, Mumbai death toll climbs

2008-11-27T10:42:00.002+01:00

BodyPump - my favourite workout for fighting globesity

2008-11-23T22:54:00.004+01:00

I'm still working on this article, so just stay tuned to find out why this BodyPump-lecture has anything to do with English Social Studies.

Inaugural addresses

2008-11-18T18:12:00.005+01:00

Yesterday we were lucky to attend a lecture held by Dr. Kathleen Godfrey (Associate Professor, California State University--Fresno, Ph.D.) about inaugural addresses.

The most common usage of the term is in the context of a formal investiture whereby an individual assumes an office or position of authority or power. The term is usually used in reference to a politician's assumption of the duties of head of state or head of government (e.g. the President's inauguration). An "inaugural address" is the presidential speech given at this ceremony which informs the people of his intentions as a leader.

We discussed some famous speeches and had a really interesting and inspiring time with our American visitor=) Take a look at some famous passages from Inaugural speeches:

George Washington (1789)
"The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty and the destiny of the republican model of government are justly considered, perhaps, as deeply, as finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the Amercan People."

Abraham Lincoln (1861)
"We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break or bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and partriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone, all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when touched again, as surely they will be, by the better angels of nature."

Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933)
"First of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself--nameless, unreasoning,unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance."

John F. Kennedy (1961)
"And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

The beautiful "Time after time"

2008-11-16T14:53:00.004+01:00

Lying in my bed, I hear the clock tick, and think of you
Caught up in circles confusion is nothing new
You say go slow; I fall behind
The second hand unwinds

If you're lost, you can look and you'll find me
Time after time
If you fall, I'll catch you; I'll be waiting
Time after time

Time after time
Time after time

by Nick Gilder/James Mcculloch

The Kite Runner Movie

2008-11-14T10:49:00.001+01:00

The bestselling novel “The Kite Runner” has become a movie and reached the cinemas – with great success and victory! The expectations were sky-high, and the chance of failing was utterly present. But the job is done – and it’s done well. It certainly was a nice and moving alteration from book to film.
Despite the film’s low budget, the cinematography is surprisingly superb and excellent .The scenery and filming are spectacular, and all the direction and editing are amazingly well done. I will emphasize how great this movie is made by referring to an opening scene; just imagine a colorful kite in the wonderful blue sky, flying over an immense area side by side with a vast flock of birds. This is a splendid scene and this film technique pervades the whole film, making it a great and unforgettable film experience.
In addition to the great cinematography, the performances in this movie were stunning. The acting was generally astounding and beyond belief, but Ahmad Khan Mahmidzada was amazing. He did an incredible job portraying the young Hassan, it was beyond doubt captivating. I found the scene where Hassan is raped intriguing and somewhat important for the film. This is a striking turning point breaking the perfect idyll between the two boys, then ruining the loving friendship they used to share. Ahmad’s acting in this very sequence was astonishing and what more can I say, but brilliant. I was really mesmerized.
As well as great cinematography and stunning performances, the manuscript is exceptional and admirable. By experience I’m painfully aware of how difficult it is to make a spectacular film out of such a magnificent and remarkable novel, but this movie truly gives great justice to the book. Of course, some parts of the book have not been included, but I don’t think this fact constitutes any loss, because we are lucky witnesses of a great transition from a book to a film. Khaled Hosseini’s innate and unbelievable ability to write together with his compassionate storytelling is accurately represented in the movie.
Stunning performances, outstanding cinematography and a great story; it certainly was a nice and moving transition from book to film. As I mentioned, the chance of failing was considerable and the expectations were so high that they were literally sky-scraping, but nevertheless is it satisfying to achieve success. And they did.

“For you a thousand times over and over”.

Literature of current interest

2008-11-10T08:20:00.002+01:00

Nowadays, each and every newschannel, newspaper or webpage are dominated by news considering the revolutionary election in USA last week.

This is why I want to recommend a book that I just started to read; it is called "The audacity of hope", and it is written by the winner himself, Barack Obama.

This book truly provides an unique insight when it comes to what is was that formed Obama to become what he is today; an outstanding politician who will mark American and international politics for many years to come.

The Jungle Book & The House of Literature

2008-11-07T20:31:00.006+01:00

Yesterday, I attended a lecture held by Henrik Langeland about american literature. He talked about famous and important writers like David Foster Wallace, Joan Didion and Dave Eggers. I sure was inspired to read Infinite Jest, which is written by Foster Wallece, who died recently.

Toaday I attended a Workshop with the famous dancer Adil (he won the contest "So you thick you can dance?" in 2006). He told the class about the long and difficult process it has been to become what he his today. His father didn't aknowledge Adil's ambitions and therefore Adil went ttough a difficult time trying to reach his goals. It was a mesmerizing and emotional talk...

Adil plays Mowgli in the "Jungle Book", which we attended as "guests of honor"...

The Separation of Powers Principle

2008-11-03T21:57:00.001+01:00

The French philosopher Charles de Secondat Montesquieu and his declaration "De l’esprit des loix" from 1748, is widely acknowledged as the philosophical and idealistic foundation of the principle of the separation of powers.
Montesquieu disliked the fact that the legislative power often acted as the executive one as well, and he worked hard to prevent this; for one thing he wrote an assertion stating: “When the legislative power is united with the executive authority in one and the same person (or in the same higher organ of a state), no freedom can be found because there will be tyrannical leaders who create laws only to execute them in a tyrannical way”.

His views and visions were a reaction to France’s more noble community’s massive waste of money and state resources. Montesquieu himself was exceedingly critical to the way that the king and his associates – richer persons like businessmen and the aristocracy– had governed the French state. His declaration and public disparagement of the state were both the forerunner and the actual triggering factor to the French revolution.
He introduced the world to a new way of dividing powers in a state, and I intend to discuss both the advantages and disadvantages (if there are any), of the principle of separation of powers.

WHAT THE PRINCIPLE INVOLVES
Here’s the deal: there are three branches: the executive, the legislative and the judicial. The executive branch is the governor. The executive’s job is to carry out the laws and make sure they are obeyed. Branch two: the legislative. Think legislature! Their job is simply explained: they are making laws. Thirdly, the judicial branch, made up of courts and judges. Their job is to make sure that the laws are fair.
So, what it is that makes this system special and has done it ever since 1789, is the fact that the US government actually works because these branches balance each other out. If one division goes too far, the others can simply pull it back. Let me exemplify it this way: each branch is responsible and conscientious for the things the other branches are not. Not only responsible, but so in charge that none of the other branches can do the other thing. For example; the executive branch can not make a law, the legislative branch can not decide whether a law is reasonable for everybody or not, and the judicial branch can not carry out a law.
There are some real benefits for you and me with this sort of deal. Think about it: if every branch could do the job of every other branch, then one could possibly take over. In other words, in a scenario like that, you would only need one branch, which means no more democracy. And no democracy is no good.
So, the next time somebody says that one branch or another should step in and set another branch aright, like telling the court how to do justice, think about what’s at stake; the answer to that is basically everything.

ARE THERE ANY DISADVANTAGES AT ALL?
I have discussed the principle of separation of powers with lots of different people lately, and when it comes to whether there are any disadvantages connected to this system or not, the opinions seem to differ. There are none known disadvantages of this system, but after several discussions I have decided to mention two aspects that may appear and be looked upon as if they were disadvantages.
1. Costly
Running and administrating the three branches of the state is often considered to be far more expensive and resource-demanding than maintaining one single government like in a unitary state.

2. Time-consuming
The branches are independent of one another, but sometimes new laws, requests and initiatives have to be negotiated through lengthy consultations between the three branches. Bureaucracy equals to slow processes.

CONCLUSION
The principle of separation of powers, which is the foundation of both the Norwegian and American state and constitution, is doubtlessly a system with more advantages than disadvantages. The system confines corruption and prevents any abuse of authority. The principle ensures that the execution of power is dispersed on three independent authorities.
One of the most popular benefits with this system is the fact that some of the power belongs to the people itself. They elect senators for the senate, and representatives for The House Of Representatives.

Democrats hold big lead as election day slowly approaches

2008-11-02T19:43:00.003+01:00

Polls show Obama ahead in numerous states whose electoral votes total nearly 300...

Obama's campaign stunt

2008-10-30T08:13:00.002+01:00

Yesterday, at 8 p.m. (EDT), Obama launched his revolutionary and first-time-ever 30 minute commerical-video. It aired in six national broadcasters.

This is a sign of Obama's more offensive and public way of running for the oval office, McCain on his side attended a smaller rail in Texas...

American History Timeline

2008-10-28T11:50:00.003+01:00

I've just started the production of an American History Timeline--> dipity / American History

Posted using ShareThis

Sometimes finding the truth is easier than facing it.

2008-10-21T11:05:00.004+02:00

“In the valley of Elah” is a mesmerizing movie about a retired sergeant chasing the truth of his son’s tragic and unpredicted death. The son had recently returned from his service in Iraq, and was living at a military base in New Mexico. After an extensive investigation he finds out that his son was killed by a comrade from his own troop.

The service in Iraq affected the whole troop mentally. War on Terrorism is no game. It’s a deadly fight to survive and protect one’s country’s liberty and pride. The contrasts between Iraq in war and the peaceful US are vast and indescribable, and the many home-coming soldiers from Iraq seems to be having a hard time trying to accept that as a true.

As a result of what they experienced in Iraq, their lives back home were hard to handle. Home-coming soldiers tend to have problems accommodating the differences between a damaged country and a welfare society.
This causes angriness. And one day it all blackened…

Article under construction...

Republican Powell endorses Obama

2008-10-19T19:21:00.005+02:00

Republican Colin Powell confirmed today that he will vote for the democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama, citing his "ability to inspire".

According to CNN, Powell stated:
"I think he is a transformational figure, he is a new generation coming onto the world stage, onto the American stage, and for that reason I'll be voting for Sen. Barack Obama".

I think it's great!

These are the differences between Obama and MacCain

2008-10-17T20:25:00.004+02:00

Both Obama and McCain are using the final campaign weeks to collect votes. I've listed their opinions in the hot-button issues to see what the main differences are.

Abortion
The Abortion debate representens one of the biggest differences between The Democrats and The Republicans. While Obama fights for women's right to decide for themselves, McCain (and especially Palin) has used several opportunites to demonstrate their strongly concervative point of view in this cause.
Afghanistan
Obama wants to withdraw US forces for Iraq as quickly as possible. He emphasise the fact that Osama Bin Laden and afghanian forces represent a bigger threat than Iraq. McCain wants to stay in Iraq for undetermined time.
Death penalty
McCain supports an expansion of the statutory framework considering death penalty.
Obama supports death penalty for certain crimes. He wants to revise the legal framework to prevent miscarriage of justice.

Bush: 'Lot of work to do' before leaving office'

2008-10-12T14:56:00.001+02:00

I think he should resign immediately...

McCain better do something quick...

2008-10-07T23:38:00.000+02:00

At this very moment, (October 7th at 23:50 pm - Norway/Oslo), it is only 3 hours and 10 minutes left before the second live debate between Barack Obama and John McCain commences.

The polls are clear; Barack Obama is the most popular candidate at the present time. Today it is only four weeks left to the election day, and if McCain doesn't use the night's opportunity well, he will lose. Be sure.

Last week the McCain-administration tried to change the whole "election-debate-theme" and almost ignored the debate concering the financial crisis that we are suffering from, instead they planted rumors and personal attacks claiming that Obama enjoys to associate terrorists.

I don't know how to interpret all of this. But my impression is that McCain is somewhat desperate, and that he better do well, really well, in tonight's debate to change the negative trend that the Republicans are experiencing.

I'm a bit worried...

2008-10-07T21:38:00.000+02:00

According to CNN, Ben Bernanke (Fed Chairman) predicts that the financial crisis we're experiencing today is likely to hold the U.S. economy back for quite a while...

We're talking into 2009, maybe longer... I must say I am a bit worried...

To me, it seems like the U.S. economy finally has escaped from its wretched "womb", and now it is finally time for it to be changed.

This is a developing story, stay tuned for updates.

Kristian

The mass media

2008-10-07T11:07:00.000+02:00

Nowadays, it is extremely important that we recognize that there is always some entity behind the stories that are published in the mass media. Always question what you hear and read and be critical to every source you use! Even when you use medias that you "rely on" and see as trustworthy...

(Not finished... I'm still working on this article)

Let the game begin...

2008-10-07T10:45:00.000+02:00

I've been asked to write a blog in English, and it's supposed to contain my thoughts considering economical, political and social causes that I find interesting.

Stay tuned for daily updates!