91. What kinds of possessions create high status in your country?
What kinds of possessions create high status? Boy that's tough to say, there are so many. You know, everyone is different and some people regard some things as being more important than others. I would say the biggest status possession is probably the car. You know if you drive one of those Santanas or Audis, it's a sign that you've made it. Also, of course, the flat itself is important too. If you live in a 3 bedroom or even a 4 bedroom flat that's private and up high, well... that's another sign you've made it.
92. Can you give me some examples of some negative effects of advertising?
Well I think these ridiculous advertisements that promise that you can improve your memory by taking a pill are a big scam. I mean they're really misleading and I think that these kinds of ads really need regulation. Another negative effect of advertisements is they try to associate happiness with the objects you buy. Can buying things make you happy? The problem with this way of thinking is, well, what happens when you get tired of the object? Then you have to buy more things.
93. In what ways do people usually make friends in your country?
What ways do people make friends? Well, all kinds of ways. I guess the most common way is by self-introduction. Maybe in your country you like to introduce yourself, but I guess we are a little more reserved and wait for an introduction. Other ways are as classmates. I think classmates are the most common form of friendships. You will find that these friends are more lasting than say colleagues from work.
94. What are the possible factors that cause friends to stop being friends?
I think it's usually jealousy. Often some friend gets jealous and then tries to do something harmful and the other friend find out and then the big trouble comes. I have seen this happen so often. Another big one is money. One friend borrows money and the other friend has a difficult time getting it back. Another one is just selfishness by one party, which is usually unintentional. For example, one friend keeps allowing the other to pay for his meals. He thinks his friend doesn't mind but actually he does.
95. What are some ways people like to travel in your country?
Well, even though I see a lot more people doing independent travelling, I would still say that tours are the most popular way of travelling. I guess we like to be with groups of people when we travel. Also, we are still a bit nervous to risk doing things by ourselves. Another popular way of travelling is by renting a car and driving to some place in a group. This gives you a bit more freedom but you have to be careful of the regulations.
96. What factors influence the way people dress?
Hmm, that's an interesting question. It's hard to say. I know weather would be one of the ways. I mean if it's snowing outside you're obviously not going to go out without a coat. But besides weather I think that clothes are basically chosen out of what self-image the person wants and what he or she feels is comfortable. You know women often choose clothing that people tell them suits them and also which seems to give off the best image for them.
97. What effects or benefits does learning an instrument have on people, especially children?
Well, I'm no expert on the subject and to tell you the truth I'm not really sure. I don't play an instrument so I have no personal experience to draw from. I suppose if I had to guess I'd say that learning an instrument sharpens your mind because I'm sure it's not that easy. I mean I know some people who'd practice for hours and so I think it must not be easy. I guess it must also make you more creative because now you know a way to put notes together.
98. What are the typical characteristics of a modern family?
Well, I've never thought about what makes a modem family. I suppose it's a family that gives each other a large degree of personal freedom. I mean when I think of a modem family I think of the father and mother both doing the work they want and both sharing the housework. Kids can also make choices about their careers and relationships. I also think that a modern family should be smaller and probably a little better off.
99. What are the main features of traditional architecture in your country?
Well I'm no expert on this topic. I've never really studied the architecture of my country. I guess the main features are the steep roofs and the curvy eaves, which are often decorated at the corners. Also a lot of traditional architecture is held up by pillars. We used to use a lot more wood in our architecture but now its a lot more cost effective to make things with brick or concrete. Also, windows are much smaller in traditional architecture, but many modern buildings are made completely with glass.
100. What are the various ways computers can be useful for our learning?
Well, it would be difficult to come up with a complete list since the number of ways might be unlimited! Well, I can think of one way where computers are helpful in my English. The other day I came across a pronunciation learning web site which gave very good explanations about where I should place my tongue and teeth and where a sound should originate. I think, also, that computers are good for allowing us to do drills and practice exercises because I find it embarrassing to do them in front of a teacher.
Changes
101. How has technology changed in China over the last few years?
Technology has really taken quite a big leap since the open door policy. More and more people are realizing the importance of technology and the good things it brings and the way it increases productivity and efficiency. People are now being trained to use technology in the work place. People are realizing that without technology, it'll be difficult to compete in this new global economy. The Internet is one example. More and more people are connected to the Internet at home or at work. It's become a part of many people's lives to get news, get in contact with people around the world and even receive our entertainment on the net. The amount of information it provides is incredible.
102. How have Chinese eating habits changed in the last 20 to 30 years?
Yes I think that eating habits have undergone some changes. Well, I think the ways our habits have changed are simply that we eat a lot more variety than before. We are more prosperous now and so we can order a lot of different dishes at restaurants. I also find that many people are learning to make dishes from different places. My mother for example, learned to cook Sichuan food, even though we are from the northeast of China. Another way it has changed is that young people are eating a lot more fast food, not just from the West but also Chinese style fast food. We just like the casual style of eating.
103. How has the environment changed?
Yes I think the environment has changed in a big way. The air has become worse and worse and the water has become more and more contaminated. Because of over-development the sandstorms have gotten worse, as well. However, I think some aspects have also improved. More and more parks are being created and there have been a number of successful tree planting projects.
104. How has tourism changed in China?
I think tourism has become very popular in China and is now big business. More and more people are taking an interest in travelling to China and so the revenue collected from tourism is becoming significant. This has meant that many cities have changed a lot to accommodate more tourists. Take Xi' an, as an example. Tourism has become one of the major industries there and so a lot of shops now carry souvenirs as well as other things.
105.What are the differences between entertainment media, such as TV and movies in the past and now?
Huge differences! I mean in the past everyt
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