Wise Monkey News is here to provide young people an opportunity to discuss the issues that affect their lives. We hope that, through your participation, this website serves as a forum for the development, exchange, and expression of ideas that will prepare us to assume our positions as the leaders of tomorrow's world. Have something to say?
Kenji-san ni shoten o atteru - A focus on Kenji
by: Teresa Abbene - printed on 04-11-2001
“The biggest difference between the U.S. and Japan is that Americans describe every single detail. I have a friend living in Japan who is from the U.S. and every time we talk he drives me crazy! He’ll ask me, How’s it going? And I’ll answer, Fine. OK. And he’ll ask again, How?”
Aside from Americans’ insistent focus on details and feelings, Kenji Ishikawa likes living in the U.S. Kenji is a 23-year-old senior majoring in sociology.
Recognize the beauty that surrounds you
by: Meghan Molenda - printed on 11-07-2001
We are all Oregonians at the moment. I realize that this may not seem to be the case for many of us, myself included, because many University of Portland students are from out of the state, or out of the country. Right now, however, we all have something in common, no matter where we are from or where we might be heading: we are here on the west coast in one of the most beautiful cities in the country, Portland, Oregon.
Debunking the feminist myth
by: Christy Scheuer - printed on 09-25-2002
Feminism. Oh, the difference a word can make! The word feminism is fraught with negative implications, obscured by layers of stereotypes. Many people hesitate to call themselves feminists for fear of others’ scorn and derision.
China’s Environment versus Economy
by: Jefferson Azevedo - printed on 10-10-2001
It is impossible to talk about China without taking into account the environmental problem. With a population of about 1.2 billion people – one out of every five human beings in the world – China alone has the potential to raise the greenhouse effect to levels far beyond scientists’ worst nightmares. And this is considering that its population, four times as big as that of the United States, uses only half as much energy and resources as America does.
A journey through Paris
by: Jefferson Azevedo - printed on 09-12-2001
Paris is romantic by definition, gallant by tradition, sophisticated by choice. I spent last year living, studying, and working in Paris; each day, upon exiting a metro station or turning a street corner, I came across a glamorous café or a staggering monument erected to celebrate French power. It sometimes felt like time had stopped in the bohemian life of the 20’s, as if I had been caught in a live oil canvas by Picasso or Van Gogh.
What Role does the U.S. play in the world?
by: Hank Smith - printed on 09-11-2002
I remember a conversation I once had with a fellow American and a Swede. We were discussing movies, and the Swede mentioned that his favorite film was from the United States - American Beauty. Another American I was with could not believe it.