Jul 3 2011: I think this largely depends on how you view intelligence. If intellect was simply knowledge gained from exposure to new material, I would have to say that the current generation is far more "intellectual" because they have the opportunity to access so much in today's digital age. However, when intellect is viewed upon as not only the ability to digest the material given, but to understand and implement it, I think the past generations were more intellectual.
I think today's systen of education has more material to offer, but not the correct techniques/tools to engage students, to get them thinking about more than what is written in the textbook. As a student, I often feel North American cirrucculums don't put enough of an emphasis on critical thinking and connecting material to ideas, other subjects, and the outside world.
So in the end, I believe we, the current generation, lack many components of intellect that can only be provided to the public with a better educational system; one that teaches, and not just informs.
There are too many unknown risks associated with the implementation of GMO crops to surrounding ecosystems and the environment. Until the controversies surrounding the development, growth, and distribution of these crops are cleared, I think the best choice, in terms of health benefits and sustainability, is organic farming.
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A comment on Conversation: Is the generation in education getting less intelligent than the ones before them or smarter?
I think today's systen of education has more material to offer, but not the correct techniques/tools to engage students, to get them thinking about more than what is written in the textbook. As a student, I often feel North American cirrucculums don't put enough of an emphasis on critical thinking and connecting material to ideas, other subjects, and the outside world.
So in the end, I believe we, the current generation, lack many components of intellect that can only be provided to the public with a better educational system; one that teaches, and not just informs.
A comment on Conversation: Do we need to promote GMO crops to meet the growing food need of the world or we should be back towards the organic farming??
There are too many unknown risks associated with the implementation of GMO crops to surrounding ecosystems and the environment. Until the controversies surrounding the development, growth, and distribution of these crops are cleared, I think the best choice, in terms of health benefits and sustainability, is organic farming.