慢速英语阅读 篇一
The Benefits of Slow Reading
In today's fast-paced world, where information is readily available at our fingertips, the art of slow reading seems to have been forgotten. Slow reading is the practice of reading deliberately and attentively, taking the time to savor the words and immerse oneself in the text. While it may seem counterintuitive in a society that values speed and efficiency, slow reading has numerous benefits that cannot be overlooked.
First and foremost, slow reading enhances comprehension. By reading slowly and attentively, we are able to fully grasp the meaning of the text and understand the author's perspective. This allows us to engage in critical thinking and analysis, rather than simply skimming through the words and missing out on important details. Slow reading also improves our vocabulary and language skills, as we have the opportunity to encounter unfamiliar words and phrases and learn their meanings in context.
Secondly, slow reading promotes concentration and focus. In a world filled with distractions, such as social media and constant notifications, it can be challenging to stay focused on a single task. Slow reading requires us to eliminate these distractions and dedicate our full attention to the text. This not only improves our ability to concentrate, but also enhances our overall mental clarity and mindfulness.
Furthermore, slow reading provides a much-needed break from the constant barrage of information. It allows us to disconnect from the digital world and immerse ourselves in the beauty of literature. By slowing down and taking the time to appreciate the words on the page, we can experience a sense of calm and relaxation. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience stress or anxiety, as slow reading provides a reprieve from the demands of everyday life.
Lastly, slow reading fosters empathy and emotional intelligence. When we read slowly and attentively, we are able to connect with the characters and their experiences on a deeper level. We can empathize with their struggles, understand their motivations, and appreciate their perspectives. This not only enhances our ability to understand and relate to others in real life, but also broadens our horizons and exposes us to different cultures, viewpoints, and life experiences.
In conclusion, slow reading is a valuable practice that offers numerous benefits in our fast-paced world. It enhances comprehension, concentration, and emotional intelligence, while providing a much-needed break from information overload. So, the next time you pick up a book, take the time to slow down, savor the words, and truly immerse yourself in the joy of reading.
慢速英语阅读 篇二
The Power of Slow Reading in Digital Age
In the age of smartphones and constant connectivity, the art of slow reading is fading away. Slow reading is the practice of reading deliberately and attentively, taking the time to deeply engage with the text. In a world that values speed and efficiency, slow reading may seem counterintuitive. However, it is precisely because of the digital age that slow reading is more important than ever.
One of the advantages of slow reading is that it allows for a deeper understanding of the text. In today's fast-paced world, we often skim through articles, books, and online content, only absorbing surface-level information. Slow reading, on the other hand, encourages us to take the time to fully comprehend the material. By reading slowly and attentively, we can analyze the author's arguments, evaluate the evidence, and form our own opinions. This critical thinking skill is crucial in the digital age, where information is constantly being bombarded at us.
Slow reading also promotes mindfulness and concentration. In a world filled with distractions, it can be difficult to stay focused on a single task, such as reading. However, by intentionally slowing down and immersing ourselves in the text, we can train our minds to be present and attentive. This not only enhances our reading experience, but also improves our ability to concentrate in other areas of life.
Furthermore, slow reading provides a break from the constant connectivity of the digital world. In a society where we are always connected to our devices, it is important to take time for ourselves and engage in activities that promote relaxation and self-reflection. Slow reading allows us to disconnect from the distractions of social media and immerse ourselves in the beauty of literature. It provides a space for introspection and personal growth, which is often neglected in the fast-paced digital age.
Lastly, slow reading fosters empathy and emotional intelligence. By immersing ourselves in the lives and experiences of fictional characters, we can develop a better understanding of human nature. We can empathize with their joys and sorrows, their struggles and triumphs. This ability to connect with others on an emotional level is crucial in building meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of community, both online and offline.
In conclusion, slow reading is a powerful antidote to the fast-paced and distractible nature of the digital age. It allows for a deeper understanding of text, promotes mindfulness and concentration, provides a break from constant connectivity, and fosters empathy and emotional intelligence. So, let's take a step back from our screens, slow down, and rediscover the joy of reading in its purest form.
慢速英语阅读 篇三
慢速英语阅读
Western Values Inspire Gay Rights Debate in S. Korea
The struggle for gay rights in South Korea is not one that can be seen as a conflict between Eastern and Western cultural values.
South Korean lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, or LGBT, activists have been influenced by the success of gay rights movements in western countries.
But U.S. activists against gay marriage have also had influence in South Korea.
Thousands of South Korean gay rights supporters and opponents recently held demonstrations at the same time and place. The activists gathered in front of Seoul's city administration building.
Demonstrators at the Gay Pride Festival celebrated the U.S. Supreme Court decision to legalize same sex marriage. The U.S. gay rights movement has helped raised awareness in Asia on the issue. South Korean activists have been encouraged and partly guided by the American experience. Nam Woong is with the activist group Solidarity For LGBT Human Rights Of Korea. He said his country’s activists are not following the path of the United States exactly. But he said there are similiarities.
Gay rights opponents also say they get inspiration from other countries. Western missionaries brought Christianity to South Korea. Since the 1950s, Christian representation has increased from two percent to more than 30 percent of the country’s population today. And many conservative Christians in South Korea see gay rights as a betrayal of the values they learned from American churches.
Lee Byung-Dae is a spokesperson for the Korean Association of Church Communication. He expressed worry that, in his words, “the values established by the United States are now being destroyed." Reverend Lee said his group has links to 45,000 Christian churches.
Seoul Mayor Park Won-s
oon is a supporter of same-sex marriage. But in 2014, he withdrew a proposed human rights law after anti-gay activists held a sit-in at City Hall. The failed measure was designed to protect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people from discrimination in the city’s larger region.Reverend Lee said his gay rights opposition group is reaching out to Western churches to help stop what he said is a growing movement to discriminate against Christians.
"We are trying to seriously stop the movement from infringing on the human rights of majority Christians because of human rights of the minority," he said.
But, as in the West, public support for gay rights in South Korea is growing. A recent study shows support for legalization of same sex marriage in South Korea increased from 16.9 percent to 28.5 percent from 2010 to 2014. This change in attitude is mainly found among the younger people questioned in the study.
Nam Woong said, "The history of self-expression is short in South Korea. But the speed of change is much faster here.”
The U.S. Embassy had a presence at the Gay Pride festival in Seoul. Festival-goers could take pictures of themselves with life-size photos of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.
Mr. Nam said the U.S. has been supporting the Korean gay rights movement for years through diplomatic offices and non-governmental groups.
In June, America’s highest court ruled that the U.S. constitution guarantees a right to same-sex marriage. Shortly after, two South Korean filmmakers went to court in Seoul to take part in a similar legal battle. The men, Kim Chokwangsu and Kim Seung-hwan, married in 2013 in a public wedding. They have been seeking legal recognition of their union since then.
The court this week rejected their request saying, "same-sex marriage does not satisfy the definition of husband and wife in civil law." A legal group supporting the couple said it will appeal the South Korean court decision. And the group said it will continue to fight for equal rights for all people, no matter their sexual preference.
I'm Caty Weaver.
Brian Padden reported this story from Seoul. Caty Weaver adapted it for Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.
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Words in This Story
aware – adj. knowing that something (such as a situation, condition, or problem) exists
encourage – v. to make (someone) more determined, hopeful, or confident
inspire – v. to make (someone) want to do something : to give (someone) an idea about what to do or create
orientation – n. a person's feelings, interests, and beliefs
sit-in – n. a strike or protest in which people sit or stay in a place and refuse to leave until they are given what they demand
preference – n. a feeling of liking or wanting one person or thing more than another person or thing
Do LGBT people have equal rights, including freedom to marry, in your country? We want to hear from you. Post your answer in the comments section.