Ó n3vs97 Making a difference Read the quotation. Would you say it is an optimistic or a pessimistic assessment? Decide whether you agree or disagree with the writer’s opinion. Think of historical or contemporary events to support your decision. Compare your opinions in class. Read the blog post and discuss in pairs what you associate with the names of the people mentioned. “In today’s world, no state, however remote, can hope to control its population by limiting its access to information or suppressing its ability to think.” (Richard Barrett) Reading 1 a b Jennifer K Making a difference Those lucky enough to be born into a western style democracy after World War II have enjoyed a long period of personal freedom, civil rights and economic security. Others less fortunate have seen their democratic rights trampled on, their civil liberties reined in and their livelihood destroyed by corrupt governments. However, there have always been individuals prepared to rise up against unaccountable leaders and unjust laws. Names that immediately spring to mind are Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Rosa Parks or Martin Luther King. All advocates of non-violent civil disobedience, they still prove inspiring for people and movements that refuse to put up with an unacceptable status quo. Reply Look at the pictures below. Where do you think they take place? What kind of atmosphere do they depict? Which emotions do they show? Can you imagine being part of any of these movements? Why? / Why not? c A B C Read through the descriptions on the next page and match them with the pictures and headings. d Black Lives Matter Extinction Rebellion Fighting for education 112 9 Unit The world we live in talk about dedicated people and their achievements persuade others to take action write a fundraising letter or email Goals talk about political events explain the benefits of something describe experiences of problem solving describe issues and priorities Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv
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