Too Many Problems In The World - Who Decides What To "Fix?"

DEFORESTATION - DESERTIFICATION - WATER POLLUTION (BIOLOGICAL, INDUSTRIAL, HUMAN WASTE) - DAMMING RIVERS - BROWN CLOUDS - DROUGHT

Our big question today is...

There are so many problems in the world, how can we decide what to make better?

And...

Who is responsible for making the world a better place?

Going back to the beginning of the year, we discussed the primary role of government - to keep their country (and citizens) safe.  In the USA, we elect government officials and expect them to "make the world a better place."  If they do not do what we expect, we have the obligation to not vote for them in the next elections.

In other countries, their governments reflect their society (traditions, religions, and even problems they face as a nation).  The type of government and citizen participation is sometimes based on how they believe it is best for them to keep themselves safe and protect their country.  We will soon be describing the different styles of governments, why they exist, and how they differ from one another.

We are quickly approaching the difficult part of social studies (but it is also what makes it fun, and the best class in school).  Unlike most situations in school, where there is "one right answer" that is expected, we look deeply into problems, ideas, and possible solutions.  Backgrounds, history, cultures, and problems determine the courses of actions that can be taken, and which might be the best approach for the time.  It's not easy to think of more than one alternative to solve a problem.

THERE ARE NO RIGHT ANSWERS IN SOCIAL STUDIES.  As soon as you think you know the answer, something can change and your answer must change too. 

Two final environmental videos:

Asia's Brown Cloud:

Southeast Asia's Drought:

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