Daily News Article - November 2, 2005
1. Re-read paragraph #2. Re-write the sentence to more clearly explain where John Tkacik works.
2. Re-read paragraphs 4,5 and 6. Which paragraph's meaning is unclear? Do a yahoo or google search of the writer. What information can you find to help explain why parts of this article are not clearly written? Whose responsibility is it to ensure clarity?
3. Explain how the U.S. company Yahoo works with the Chinese government to prevent free speech in China. Be specific.
4. Explain how the U.S. company Cisco helps the Chinese government to put reporters and citizens who express their own opinions in jail. Be specific.
5. Read the section "How Chinese Censorship Works" on the Reporters Without Borders website. (scroll halfway down for the correct section) What surprises you the most about this report?
6. What is Yahoo's motive for helping the Chinese government to censor free speech and freedom of the press? What is ironic about Yahoo's actions in China? Why don't Yahoo and Cisco publicize their activities with the Chinese government to their American customers?
What can the American consumer do about the despicable actions of Yahoo and Cisco? Should the U.S. government do anything?