Natural Gas, Immigration, and Death

Natural gas was a main discussion in class, and continues to be a main discussion in our economy. The finding of the Marcellus Shale, which lies partly in Pennsylvania, is the reason so many gas-drilling and energy companies are moving in on our territory. The question still remains whether to trust these companies or not? Personally, I see the good in them and discussion didn't really change my thinking. I live in a rural area of farmland and woods, and my neighbor town, Benton/Orangeville, has felt the impact of gas-drilling. Although people get paid an incredible amount of money, it could be harmful in a number of ways. Digging into the ground and disturbing the under-layers can cause pollution in drinking wells, and fracking can damage our environment. A few people in class had mentioned that they knew people, who agreed to gas-drilling, that could light their water on fire! Plus, no one knows the long-term affects of being exposed to gas-drilling either. All of these ideas were brought up and truth is, anything could have a negative effect on the environment! I'm sure an airplane isn't environmentally-friendly, but people still use those to take luxurious vacations. Gas is a natural resource that is essential to our economy! In my opinion, do what you have to do!


Rachel led discussion about Chinese Immigration in Italy. This is very strange to me, because I can't imagine why the Chinese would choose Italy as their migrant country. Why don't they expand into other Asian countries, such as Korea or Malaysia? The class quickly changed my thinking on this proposal, because it's true that Asian countries do not like to be associated/mixed with one another. This immigration doesn't affect me personally, but I could only imagine what it would be like to finally travel to Italy one day. I would be very confused if everything was written in Chinese and if there were Chinese restaurants and Chinese symbols on the streets. Because Italy is very culture-oriented, I can't help but picture Italy with cobble stone sidewalks, fountains, and statues. I think from a tourism standpoint this could hurt their economy. All in all, I don't think the Chinese belong in Italy because they are complete opposite cultures.

Wendy led discussion about green funerals. I understand this "movement" provides consumers with more alternatives to burial and funerals, but I don't like this idea. Personally, I would go the old-fashioned way. Moreover, I believe many people today would choose the old-fashioned way because it's what they're used to. (Although, this may be attractive to some; I know a lot of people who are Vegan or environmentalists and would probably consider an environmentally-friendly funeral.) All in all, I think this idea could definitely catch on, just like the idea of solar panels. Consumers are just waiting for a definite "this really works!" Once consumers see other people doing something, it eventually catches on like a trend. Finally, from a business stand-point, I can congratulate the business leaders that opened their companies to this untapped market.