AQ/Faris Hakim/10S403

The author in passage 1 says that society operates on the assumption that they, values, not only can be taught but must be. I disagree with the author because in a more liberal society, these values has been eroded. The values are being taught but it has not had any effect on the society. This can be seen from the reality show 16 and pregnant. Their society view it as a norm for an unmarried 16 year old getting pregnant. If this happens to a more conservative society such as those in Asia, the girl and her family would be deeply ashamed. Hence, i disagree with the author because not all societies operates on the same assumption. This idea is applicable to my society because Singapore is still largely considered as a traditional and conservative society. However, this may change in the coming years because Singaporean youths are becoming more liberal.

The author in passage 2 says that the basic problem is that there is an absence of a culture of shame. I agree with the author because as society strives to improve its economic and material well-being, much of these values are being ignored as they tend to hinder society's progress. This idea is not applicable to my society because Singapore is still considered a traditional and conservative society.