Alex Lew

The Rise of Paid Study Spaces: Understanding the Trend of “Buying Discipline”

In recent years, paid study spaces have become increasingly popular among young people in China. From large cities to small towns, these spaces offer a quiet and focused environment for students to study and work on their projects. The trend has sparked a debate on whether “buying discipline” is good or bad. This article explores the reasons behind the popularity of paid study spaces, the benefits and drawbacks of this trend, and its implications for the future.

What are Paid Study Spaces?

Paid study spaces, also known as shared study rooms or co-working spaces, are commercial facilities that provide a quiet and comfortable environment for people to study or work. These spaces usually have desks, chairs, power outlets, Wi-Fi, and other amenities that help people focus on their tasks. Some paid study spaces also offer private rooms or cubicles for people who need more privacy or quietness.

The rise of paid study spaces in China can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the increasing competition for education and job opportunities has put immense pressure on young people to perform academically. As a result, many students seek a quiet and focused environment where they can study without distractions. Secondly, the need for more suitable study space in public libraries and schools has led to a shortage of study space for students. Finally, the increasing popularity of remote work and freelancing has created a demand for affordable and flexible workspaces.

Benefits of Paid Study Spaces

Paid study spaces offer several benefits to students and workers. Firstly, they provide a quiet, focused environment that helps people concentrate on their tasks. This is especially important for students studying for exams or completing assignments. Secondly, paid study spaces offer a sense of community and support. Many people who use these spaces are like-minded individuals striving to achieve their goals. This creates a supportive and motivating environment that can help people stay on track. Thirdly, paid study spaces offer flexibility and convenience. Unlike public libraries or schools, paid study spaces are open 24/7 and do not have strict rules or regulations.

Drawbacks of Paid Study Spaces

Despite the benefits, paid study spaces also have some drawbacks. Firstly, using these spaces can be prohibitive for some people. In larger cities, a monthly membership can range from 1000 to 3000 yuan, which is only affordable for some. Secondly, the quality of these spaces can vary greatly. Some areas may be overcrowded, noisy, poorly maintained, distracting and counterproductive. Thirdly, using paid study spaces can create a culture of “buying discipline” where people rely on external factors to motivate themselves rather than developing their self-discipline.

Implications for the Future

The rise of paid study spaces reflects China's changing attitudes towards education and work. As the competition for academic and job opportunities intensifies, more people seek ways to improve their skills and knowledge. Paid study spaces provide a convenient and affordable way for people to achieve their goals. However, the trend also raises questions about the role of self-discipline and intrinsic motivation in achieving success. As more people rely on external factors to motivate themselves, there is a risk of creating a culture of “buying discipline” that may not be sustainable in the long run.

Conclusion

Paid study spaces have become a popular trend among young people in China. These spaces offer a quiet and focused environment that helps people concentrate on their tasks. However, the movement also raises questions about the role of self-discipline and intrinsic motivation in achieving success. As the competition for academic and job opportunities intensifies, balancing external stimulation and internal motivation is essential. Paid study spaces can help achieve short-term goals, but self-discipline and intrinsic motivation are necessary for long-term success.

Backlinks

“More young people are trying paid study centres for self-improvement”, Global Times, 15 Jan 2020, https://www.globaltimes.cn/content/1176939.shtml

“Private Study Rooms Emerge as Refuge for Examinees”, Sixthtone, 21 Oct 2022, https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1011458

“In a Class of Their Own: Surge in Demand for Guangzhou Paid Study Rooms”, HKTDC Research, 22 Nov 2022, https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/ODg4MjE1OTM3

The Ethics of AI: Should We Use Technology to Bring Our Loved Ones Back to Life?

Source from Pengpai

In recent news, a visual designer in Shanghai, known as “Wu Wuliu,” used AI tools to “resurrect” his deceased grandmother and have a conversation with her in a video. In the video, the grandmother speaks in a Hubei dialect, has white hair, and no teeth, just like she did in life. Wu Wuliu stated that the video's purpose was to use AI technology to fill the regret of not having a proper goodbye with his grandmother. However, this video has sparked an enormous controversy. While some netizens want to use AI technology to reunite with their deceased loved ones, others believe that respecting death also respects life, and humans should not attempt to surpass death with technology. The so-called “grandmother” is just a string of cold codes and lacks practical significance.

The question arises: Would you use AI technology to revive your deceased loved ones? If “digital life” becomes famous, what problems might arise? Let’s discuss this topic in detail.

The concept of using AI technology to bring back the dead has been introduced previously. It has been explored in various forms of media, such as movies, TV shows, and books. For example, the famous British TV series “Black Mirror” had an episode where a woman used technology to bring back her deceased partner as a synthetic human. As the artificial human became more and more realistic, the whole scenario became eerie.

The idea of bringing back the dead is both fascinating and terrifying. On the one hand, it offers a chance to reunite with our loved ones and fill the void left by their absence. On the other hand, it raises ethical questions about the boundaries of life and death and the consequences of playing God.

One of the main arguments against using AI technology to bring back the dead is that it blurs the line between life and death. Death is a natural part of life, and it is something that we all have to face eventually. By attempting to bring back the dead, we are essentially denying the natural order of things and disrupting the balance of life. Moreover, creating a “digital life” that mimics a deceased loved one raises the question of authenticity. Is it the same person or just a simulation of them? And if it is a simulation, does it have the same rights and privileges as a living person?

Another argument against using AI technology to bring back the dead is that it is a form of escapism. Death is a painful and inevitable part of life, and it is something that we all have to come to terms with eventually. Using technology to bring back the dead, we avoid the grieving process and deny ourselves the opportunity to move on. Moreover, it can create false hope and lead to unrealistic expectations.

Despite these arguments, there are also valid reasons why someone might want to use AI technology to bring back the dead. For example, it can provide comfort and closure for those who have lost a loved one. It can also be a therapy for people struggling to cope with grief and loss. Additionally, it can be a way to preserve the memories and legacy of a deceased loved one.

However, if “digital life” becomes widespread, it could also lead to many problems. For example, it could create a new form of addiction, where people become obsessed with bringing back the dead and losing touch with reality. It could also lead to a new form of discrimination, where people who cannot afford to create a “digital life” for their loved ones are left behind. Additionally, it could raise legal and ethical questions about the ownership and control of “digital life” and who has the right to access it.

In conclusion, the question of whether we should use AI technology to bring back the dead is a complex and controversial one. While it offers a chance to reunite with our loved ones and fill the void left by their absence, it also raises ethical questions about the boundaries of life and death and the consequences of playing God. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether they want to use AI technology to bring back the dead. Still, it is essential to consider the potential risks and consequences before doing so.

References

“Shanghai designer uses AI to ‘resurrect’ his dead grandmother and video chat with her.” South China Morning Post, 29 Mar. 2021, https://www.scmp.com/tech/tech-trends/article/3127189/shanghai-designer-uses-ai-resurrect-his-dead-grandmother-and-video.

“Be Right Back.” Black Mirror, season 2, episode 1, Channel 4, 11 Feb. 2013.

“小伙用AI技术“复活”奶奶，一口方言对答如流！网友却吵起来了” https://www.thepaper.cn/newsDetail_forward_22654189

Should gender divide Soft Sleeper Train Compartments? A Look at the Chinese Context

Source from sgss8

As the holiday season approaches in China, many people will be travelling by train, and some may have concerns about sharing a sleeping compartment with members of the opposite sex. Recently, a woman posted on social media about her experience sharing a soft sleeper compartment with three men and how uncomfortable it made her feel. This raises the question of whether train companies in China should consider dividing bins by gender.

In 2006, China tried implementing female-only compartments but was discontinued due to low demand. The issue of soft sleeper compartments shared by strangers of different genders is common in China, and many countries have different approaches.

One possible solution could be to allow passengers to choose their compartments based on gender preference during the booking process. This could be a simple addition to the online booking system, similar to the seat selection option. However, this would require train companies to consider the logistics and feasibility of such a system and the potential impact on ticket prices.

Another solution could be to provide better communication and education to passengers about etiquette and respect when sharing a compartment with strangers. This could include guidelines on appropriate behaviour and clear instructions on raising concerns or reporting incidents to train staff.

Considering the practicality of gender-segregated compartments and the potential for discrimination is crucial. In China, cultural and social factors may influence passengers’ preferences for sharing compartments with members of the opposite sex. Train companies should consider the practicality and feasibility of different solutions while ensuring that all passengers are treated equally and respectfully.

In conclusion, the issue of soft sleeper compartments shared by strangers of different genders is complex in China. While some argue for gender-segregated bins, others say it is unnecessary and even discriminatory. Train companies in China should consider the practicality and feasibility of different solutions while also considering cultural and social factors influencing passenger preferences. Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure that all passengers are comfortable and respected during their train journeys.

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澎湃

CNA

The Future of China’s Economy: The Rise of Consumerism

China’s economy has been growing tremendously over the past few decades, driven primarily by investments in infrastructure and manufacturing. However, as the country’s economy matures, the focus shifts from investment-driven to consumption-driven growth. In the next decade, consumer spending will be the primary driver of China’s economic growth.

The Rise of Consumerism in China

China’s younger generation increasingly prioritizes personal consumption over traditional markers of success, such as owning a home or starting a family. This trend is known as “lying flat” or “tangping” in Chinese, significantly affecting the country’s economy.

Unlike previous generations, who had to allocate a significant portion of their income towards housing, education, and childcare, the younger generation has more disposable income, spending on a wide range of consumer goods and services. From ordering takeout and going out for hot pot or sushi to buying luxury brands, travelling abroad, and investing in new energy vehicles, Chinese consumers are driving the growth of a thriving consumer economy.

The Impact of Consumerism on China’s Economy

The shift towards consumption-driven growth has important implications for China’s economy. As investment-driven growth slows, consumer spending becomes an increasingly crucial economic growth driver. With its large population and growing middle class, China has the potential to be one of the world’s largest consumer markets.

This shift also creates opportunities for new industries, such as e-commerce, online entertainment, and personal finance, to emerge and thrive. These industries benefit from the growth of digital technologies, making it easier for people to access goods and services online.

Moreover, consumerism is reducing the country’s dependence on exports. As the country’s economy becomes more consumer-driven, China will rely less on foreign export demand. Instead, it can depend more on domestic needs to fuel its economic growth. This will make China more resilient to external economic shocks, such as a global economic downturn or protectionist trade policies.

Challenges Ahead

While consumerism drives China’s economic growth, some challenges must be addressed. One of the biggest challenges is income inequality, which is widening between urban and rural areas and across different regions in China. This could undermine the sustainability of China’s consumer-driven growth model by limiting the buying power of large segments of the population.

Another challenge is the need to balance consumerism with sustainable development. As Chinese consumers become wealthier and more consumption-oriented, there is a risk that they will prioritize immediate gratification over long-term sustainability. This could have negative consequences in terms of environmental degradation and resource depletion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise of consumerism is transforming China’s economy and driving economic growth. With a large and growing middle class, China has the potential to be one of the world’s leading consumer markets. However, to ensure the sustainability of this growth model, China will need to address challenges such as income inequality and environmental sustainability. If these challenges are addressed, China’s consumer-driven growth model has the potential to create significant economic opportunities for the country and its citizens in the coming years.

Backlinks

2023中国消费者洞察与市场展望白皮书 — Deloitte

Bank Failures and the Ripple Effect: Unravelling the Intricacies and Safeguarding the US Economy

Source from China Daily

As Jerome Powell, the Federal Reserve Chairman, elucidated in a recent press conference, the current bank failures in the United States stemmed from a combination of liquidity and interest rate risks, inadequate management, and exposure to a concentrated group of depositors. The collapse of these banks threatens to send shockwaves through the entire economy, potentially undermining public confidence in the banking system. Consequently, in conjunction with the Treasury Department and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the Federal Reserve has taken decisive measures to protect the US economy and guarantee the security of depositors’ savings.

In particular, the Federal Reserve has implemented the systemic risk exception to protect uninsured depositors in Signature Bank and Silicon Valley Bank cases. According to Powell, one of the primary issues with Silicon Valley Bank was that its management should have hedged against significant interest rate risks, leaving the bank vulnerable. Additionally, the bank had a concentrated group of depositors, including technology companies and start-ups, which ultimately precipitated the crisis.

Silicon Valley Bank’s troubles began a few years prior when it purchased a substantial volume of long-term US treasury bonds. As interest rates increased, the value of these bonds declined. When the bank experienced a surge in withdrawals from depositors, it was forced to sell these bonds prematurely to cover the leaves, prompting the need to raise capital, spooking investors, and triggering a massive bank run.

To curb the ripple effects resulting from the collapse of these two banks, the Federal Reserve has laid out several courses of action. In his press conference, Powell detailed the Federal Reserve’s plans to review supervision and regulation, identify the underlying issues, assess the necessary policy changes, and implement these new policies. The review process will be comprehensive and transparent, with any recommendations fully supported for implementation. Powell has expressed his commitment to determining what went wrong and amending the relevant policies to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.

Powell briefly touched upon the recent Credit Suisse debacle, although he could not provide extensive commentary due to the matter falling outside his jurisdiction. Credit Suisse, a prominent Swiss bank, failed last week and was acquired by UBS at a significantly reduced price with the assistance of the Swiss National Bank, Switzerland’s central banking authority[⁸^]. The markets have responded favourably to the transaction, which appears to have proceeded smoothly.

In summary, the Federal Reserve, Treasury Department, and FDIC have taken resolute action to safeguard the US economy and ensure the security of depositors’ savings in the banking system in light of recent bank failures. The systemic risk exception has been implemented to protect uninsured depositors in cases involving banks such as Signature Bank and Silicon Valley Bank. Powell has vowed to examine the root causes of the failures and implement necessary policy changes to prevent future incidents. The Credit Suisse situation was also briefly mentioned, with the markets seemingly accepting the transaction and its successful execution.

Footnotes

Federal Reserve. (2022). Transcript of Chairman Powell’s Press Conference. Retrieved from https://www.federalreserve.gov/mediacenter/files/FOMCpresconf20220405.pdf

Treasury Department. (2022). Treasury, Federal Reserve, and FDIC actions to address bank failures. Retrieved from https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0487

FDIC. (2022). Systemic Risk Exception: Protecting Uninsured Depositors. Retrieved from https://www.fdic.gov/regulations/laws/rules/2000-8660.html

The Invisible Assassin: How Dating Apps Threaten Modern Marriage

Source from Pexels

The institution of marriage has been a cornerstone of human society for centuries, evolving with cultural and social norms. However, the rapid proliferation of dating apps in the digital era has led some to question whether these platforms threaten the stability of modern marriages. As suggested by Dr Cheng Ping, a sociologist at Nanjing University, the number of extramarital affairs facilitated by dating apps has surged by 20% since 2014. This article delves into the factors that make married individuals susceptible to the temptations of online platforms and explores the impact of dating apps on marital relationships.

One must first consider the underlying motivations to understand why some individuals seek extramarital connections through dating apps. According to research by Walker (2017), there are several reasons why people seek affairs, including a desire for novelty, emotional fulfilment, or sexual gratification. The anonymity offered by online platforms allows users to explore these desires without the immediate risk of exposure. A study by Anderson (2014) found that married individuals using dating apps were likelier to pursue short-term relationships and seek validation from others.

Furthermore, dating apps can exacerbate existing issues within a marriage. Research by Hertlein (2012) suggests that technology has transformed how couples communicate and resolve conflicts. As a result, partners who struggle to address their problems effectively may increasingly turn to date apps as an escape, seeking solace in the attention and validation of others. This can create a vicious cycle wherein dating apps further undermine the couple’s ability to communicate and resolve their issues.

Another factor to consider is how married individuals present themselves on dating apps. Studies indicate that they often attempt to portray an idealised version of themselves, emphasising their physical attractiveness, professional success, and adventurous nature. This façade may encourage connections based on superficial traits rather than the deeper compatibility necessary for a lasting relationship. Consequently, individuals may find themselves entangled in fleeting, unsatisfying affairs that only serve to exacerbate their marital problems.

The psychological impact of using dating apps while married can also be significant. Research by McDaniel and Drouin (2015) found that individuals who engaged in online infidelity experienced higher levels of guilt, anxiety, and depression than those who did not. This emotional turmoil can further strain a marriage, potentially leading to its eventual breakdown.

Despite the challenges dating apps pose, it is essential to recognise that they are not solely responsible for the decline in modern marriages. Societal factors, such as shifting attitudes towards marriage and the increasing prevalence of individualism, also weaken marital bonds. Additionally, online platforms can be seen as a symptom of broader societal issues, reflecting a growing desire for instant gratification and an increasingly disconnected approach to interpersonal relationships.

In conclusion, while dating apps present a significant challenge to the stability of modern marriages, other causes exist. Instead, they serve as a catalyst, exacerbating existing issues within relationships and capitalising on the vulnerabilities of individuals seeking connection and validation. Promoting open communication and trust within marital relationships and fostering a more compassionate and connected society are crucial to address this issue.

Citations

Shu Xin, First China Marriage and Family Counselling Services Industry Summit Forum, 2014.

Walker, R. (2017). The Secret Life of the Cheating Wife: Power, Pragmatism, and Pleasure in Women’s Infidelity. Rowman & Littlefield.

The Challenges of Modern Front-End Development

Front-end web development has come a long way since the days of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. With the rise of new programming languages, frameworks, and tools, creating web applications has become more complex and powerful. However, this increased complexity also brings with it new challenges for developers.

One of the biggest challenges facing front-end developers is the sheer number of available tools and technologies. It can be overwhelming to navigate the endless list of libraries, frameworks, and build systems, each with pros and cons. As a result, developers must stay current on the latest trends and best practices to ensure that they choose the right tools for the job.

Another challenge is supporting a wide range of devices and platforms. In the past, developers only had to worry about creating websites that worked on desktop computers. Now, they must consider the myriad of devices and operating systems their users may use, from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs and game consoles.

Moreover, as the demand for more interactive and responsive web experiences grows, developers must also master the art of performance optimization. With large amounts of JavaScript code and complex rendering, web applications can quickly become slow and unresponsive. Developers must fine-tune their code to ensure it runs efficiently and smoothly across various devices and network conditions.

Security is also an essential consideration for modern web developers. With the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks, developers must be knowledgeable about the latest security threats and measures. They must also ensure that their code is structured securely and robustly to minimize the risk of vulnerabilities.

Finally, front-end developers must also adapt to changes in the industry, from shifts in user behaviour and expectations to technological advancements. They must be prepared to learn new skills and technologies to stay ahead of the curve.

In conclusion, while modern front-end development presents numerous challenges, it also offers unprecedented opportunities for creativity and innovation. By staying current on the latest trends and technologies, employing best practices for performance optimization and security, and remaining adaptable to changes in the industry, developers can meet the challenges and build engaging, practical web applications.

References

https://www.sitepoint.com/modern-front-end-challenges/

https://www.toptal.com/front-end/modern-front-end-development-2018

-https://www.pluralsight.com/blog/software-development/front-end development-challenges

https://www.beautiful.ai/blog/5-challenges-of-front-end-development-and-how-to-overcome-them

https://speckyboy.com/challenges-front-end-developers/

The Promise and Perils of Artificial Intelligence

Source from Unsplash

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been one of the most disruptive technologies of the 21st century. With its ability to learn, reason, and solve problems, AI has revolutionized many industries and has become an essential tool for businesses looking to gain a competitive edge. However, the rise of AI has also raised many ethical and societal questions, such as the impact on employment, privacy, and bias. In this article, we will explore the promise and perils of AI and the challenges it poses for society.

The Promise of AI

The promise of AI lies in its ability to process vast amounts of data and learn from it. This ability has enabled AI to revolutionize many industries, such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. AI improves patient outcomes by analyzing medical data and making more accurate diagnoses in healthcare in healthcare. In finance, AI detects fraud and makes more informed investment decisions. In manufacturing, AI is used to optimize production processes and reduce costs.

One of the most exciting developments in AI is its ability to create original content, such as music, art, and literature. Google’s DeepMind has developed an AI system called WaveNet that can generate realistic-sounding speech and music. In literature, an AI system called GPT-3 has been trained on vast amounts of text and can write original stories and articles. While AI-generated content is not yet at the level of human creativity, it can transform industries such as advertising and entertainment.

Another area where AI is showing promise is in the field of autonomous vehicles. Companies such as Tesla, Google’s Waymo, and Uber are developing self-driving cars that could revolutionize transportation. These vehicles could reduce accidents and traffic congestion and improve mobility for people unable to drive. However, many technical and regulatory challenges must be overcome before autonomous cars become mainstream.

The Perils of AI

Despite the many promises of AI, there are also many perils. One of the most significant challenges is the impact on employment. AI has the potential to automate many jobs, particularly those that involve routine tasks. For example, chatbots can now answer customer queries and perform basic accounting tasks, which could lead to job displacement. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, by 2025, AI could displace up to 85 million jobs globally.

Another challenge is the potential for bias in AI systems. AI systems are only as good as the data they are trained on, and if the data is biased, the system will also be limited. For example, a facial recognition system trained on a predominantly white dataset could have difficulty recognizing people with darker skin tones. This bias could lead to discrimination in hiring and law enforcement areas.

AI raises many ethical and societal questions, such as the impact on privacy and security. AI systems can process vast amounts of data, including personal data, which could be used for nefarious purposes. For example, AI could target individuals with personalized disinformation campaigns, undermining democracy and social cohesion.

Managing the Risks of AI

To manage the risks of AI, several steps need to be taken. One of the most important is to ensure that AI systems are transparent and explainable. This means that humans should be able to understand how the system arrived at its decisions. This transparency will enable humans to identify and correct bias in the system.

Another critical step is to ensure that AI systems are secure and robust. AI systems should be designed with security in mind and able to detect and respond to attacks. This will ensure that the system is not compromised and that sensitive data is protected.

Backlinks

TechCrunch

Google

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