Thailand's Future Belongs To Our Children

[webfact]

EDITORIAL

The country's future belongs to our children

By The Nation

Our kids need better education and chances to develop individually, but we still fail to help them succeed

Today is Thai Children's Day, and kids all over the country will be out in full force, celebrating an annual event dedicated especially to them. Many organisations and recreation centres will be putting on shows and entertainment events for kids on this day, which is designed to remind us of the importance of taking care of the younger generation.

Children's Day should also make us aware that we must work harder to nurture good citizens, not only for the nation but also for the world. Kids everywhere should have access to quality education opportunities and a proper health service. They should be able to enjoy living in a clean environment, and their rights should be protected. These basic requirements are essential in bringing up our children well, and enabling them to reach their full potential.

Unfortunately, many of our children have been denied these rights that they are entitled to. Adults have so far failed to adequately address the needs of children in this country. Worse, some adults fail to provide proper protection for children. Many kids these days are exposed to harmful influences, and in the worst cases they suffer abuse and exploitation. Adults have always contributed to these problems either through direct involvement or negligence.

While many children today have access to an overwhelming overload of information through both traditional and new media, they also witness and mimic the negative behaviour of adults, day in and day out.

In our society we now see people more divided than ever before. Those with opposing views no longer bother to try to win arguments through reason. The political and social debates in Thailand are now dominated by emotion; people stick to their own opinions and they cannot be swayed by logic. These kinds of debates further deepen the wounds, without bringing knowledge or wisdom to the table.

Good education is vital in enabling our children to blossom. However, the formulaic school curriculum that we continue to impose on them is ineffective in allowing them to develop their strengths and talents.

There needs to be a new push to teach kids more about our environment and our once-strong community spirit. We must help them understand where they come from and to be proud of their heritage, while also teaching that those who are different, or who hold different views, are not a threat.

Kids should be allowed to grow and develop based on their unique abilities and preferences. In addition to academic necessity, we must enable them to adapt to an ever-changing world that has constantly changing needs and demands. The current education system is not up to this task. Our schools continue to try to fit children into a standard mould. Success is judged by material wealth, not the benefits that they can contribute to their community or society at large through the development of individual talent.

Too many children in the rural areas still struggle to receive decent and accessible education and healthcare. This is not good enough. More needs to be done to ensure that they receive these basic rights. As a result of this failing, many young people still aspire to migrate to the cities instead of working to develop the homes and communities where they grew up. And when it comes to a good and clean environment, we adults continue to exploit the resources that belong to future generations to satisfy our immediate greed.

On this special day, we need to remember that children should have the opportunity to excel in whatever field they wish. How many children today don't have access to facilities where they can develop their interest and skills in such areas as painting, music or sport? All of these activities can instil in kids the merits of hard work and discipline, essential elements in forming them into good, productive members of society.

Ultimately it is parents who are in the best position to raise their children to be responsible citizen who have the potential to develop their strengths. Our children simply need more opportunities to enable them to grow up with dignity and pride.

-- The Nation 2011-01-08

[selftaopath]

Logic is Thailand is a extremely challenging to find. There is this “face” thing which prevents the embrace of Truth, personal responsibility, and change.

Nepotism is easy to see in Thailand. Individuals hold “lofty” positions but don’t know how to do the job. Perhaps this explains much of what Thailand lacks and is falling further behind other developing countries.

Ineffective, confusing, and un-enforced laws which greatly benefit the rich also hinder the intellectual and financial growth of Thailand. For an example what is really behind this country’s “inability” to provide access to the internet? Greed and personal gain is foremost in Thailand. Are politicians, police, and the army for the peoples’ benefit or for the social advancement of this society? Like the saying goes: The rich get richer and the poor get poorer is so true in Thailand.

Thailand will remain stagnant and drift behind all other countries that really want to move forward. The poor and uneducated don’t have a chance. Quality of life and longevity is not for them, but only those who already possess power and money.

[TheyCallmeScooter]

Almost a fantastic editorial. Skirted around the confronting realities a bit too widely for my likings.

Too many children in the rural areas still struggle to receive decent and accessible education and healthcare. This is not good enough. More needs to be done to ensure that they receive these basic rights. As a result of this failing, many young people still aspire to migrate to the cities instead of working to develop the homes and communities where they grew up.

That's almost delightfully delicate phrasing. But Thailand doesn't need delicate. Thailand needs to be confronted!

There are documentaries that could be made in a few hours that would rock Thai culture to the core, and wake everyone up from their comfortable cocoons of denial. They could be shown directly following the anthem in cinemas, catch everyone whilst they're still standing and unable to pretend to be looking the other way...

Compulsory education through Grade 10 would be a start. Once they build and staff an entire wave of new schools. If parents don't like it, tough. Children can work after they get an education, not in lieu of one.

[brahmburgers]

Education in Thailand is schooling. In other words, it's more like schooling a shoal of fish from point A to point B - than it is about real education. I think schools are over-rated in terms of importance. Just as important (or more so) is developing one's moral compass and a real appreciation for science and nature. Much of what a child embraces is shown to them by elders. Elders are often their parents, relatives, teachers, and public figures. Unfortunately, in Thailand, those people often are bad examples. Take one very prominent public figure, for example: Mr. Thaksin. He influenced several generations of Thais to embrace the concept that greed is good, lying is ok. Thaksin and others in high places have shown that corruption is fine, particularly when it makes you richer.

I've taken Thais and hill tribers and farang to frolic in nature, specifically climbing steep ravines and exploring caves. Among those in the 15 to 30 yr old range, the farang and hill tribers will go right in to nature and have a blast. The Thais, on the other hand, will be trepidatious (if they go at all). They'll be slower moving in, and apprehensive of natural settings. They want to be near their cars. Some seem like they've never been away from flat floors or flat lawns. They miss their TV, computer, and eating, so they can't be away from those things for more than about an hour.

[neilf]

yes thats why we see 3 kids of about 14 years old on a motorbike with no helmets on the sukhumvit in pattaya at the busiest time every day dodging in and out of the traffic----------------some of them dont live to have a future !!

[ginjag]

Almost a fantastic editorial. Skirted around the confronting realities a bit too widely for my likings.

Too many children in the rural areas still struggle to receive decent and accessible education and healthcare. This is not good enough. More needs to be done to ensure that they receive these basic rights. As a result of this failing, many young people still aspire to migrate to the cities instead of working to develop the homes and communities where they grew up.

That's almost delightfully delicate phrasing. But Thailand doesn't need delicate. Thailand needs to be confronted!

There are documentaries that could be made in a few hours that would rock Thai culture to the core, and wake everyone up from their comfortable cocoons of denial. They could be shown directly following the anthem in cinemas, catch everyone whilst they're still standing and unable to pretend to be looking the other way...

Compulsory education through Grade 10 would be a start. Once they build and staff an entire wave of new schools. If parents don't like it, tough. Children can work after they get an education, not in lieu of one.

Agreed scooter, get tough, action is needed -now. So many teachers in my rural area, are on permanent holiday at work, I helped to teach free at high schools, teachers meetings(time out) during tuition time was common, students had no teachers for the class, many classes were teacher less. Lessons concentrate too much on music,art,sport,religion, class teachers are boreing, Should be more concentration on maths,language, Geography is rarely touched. kids out of school for no reason is rife, Parents attitude is negative in general. rights and wrongs are not taught-police help at schools is not there.

[phaethon]

Given that the country is already run by a bunch of squabbling five-year-olds...

---

Mark Twain; I have never let my schooling interfere with my education

[ginjag]

Education in Thailand is schooling. In other words, it's more like schooling a shoal of fish from point A to point B - than it is about real education. I think schools are over-rated in terms of importance. Just as important (or more so) is developing one's moral compass and a real appreciation for science and nature. Much of what a child embraces is shown to them by elders. Elders are often their parents, relatives, teachers, and public figures. Unfortunately, in Thailand, those people often are bad examples. Take one very prominent public figure, for example: Mr. Thaksin. He influenced several generations of Thais to embrace the concept that greed is good, lying is ok. Thaksin and others in high places have shown that corruption is fine, particularly when it makes you richer.

I've taken Thais and hill tribers and farang to frolic in nature, specifically climbing steep ravines and exploring caves. Among those in the 15 to 30 yr old range, the farang and hill tribers will go right in to nature and have a blast. The Thais, on the other hand, will be trepidatious (if they go at all). They'll be slower moving in, and apprehensive of natural settings. They want to be near their cars. Some seem like they've never been away from flat floors or flat lawns. They miss their TV, computer, and eating, so they can't be away from those things for more than about an hour.

Miss their t.v. Thais get bored with anything quickly, They always are thinking -mobile-t.v.-vcd,dvd,cd, laos dancing and singing, sport, motor cycles, food, Big problem--advise them about doing wrong//teach/guide. most are not interested in being told anything, they know from birth. Adults copy what their parents did, good or bad, and will not change, because it was always done like that. most things are therefore bodged, homes, buildings, majority are lazy. because they were never had to do much at home, or had home tuition, left alone most of the time to run amock unchecked-no law-no one to take care-not much love in the home.

[Guest]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

[whybother]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

Is there a military parade somewhere that I haven't read about?

[whybother]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

Is there a military parade somewhere that I haven't read about?

Ahh ... I see what you're talking about now

[phiphidon]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

Is there a military parade somewhere that I haven't read about?

Ahh ... I see what you're talking about now http://www.thaivisa....ost__p__4136343

Poor taste in my opinion, but no doubt some supporters

[TheyCallmeScooter]

Annual event it seems. Boy they start em young...

Thai Photo Blogs: Children's Day 2007

Thai children climb atop Thai Army military hardware Saturday, Jan. 13, 2007, at the Royal Plaza in Bangkok, Thailand. The military machines were on hand as part of National Children's Day in Thailand. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)

A Thai Army soldier looks on as a young boy is photographed with a machine gun Saturday, Jan. 13, 2007, at the Royal Plaza in Bangkok, Thailand. Thousands of young Thais were on hand for a close look at military hardware, all part of National Children's Day in Thailand. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)

Not the only place where they start young, but I don't think the flower sellers are officially part of National Children's Day. Pretty sure they're just working.

[rubl]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

It seems others think children don't need books.

BREAKINGNEWS

School library hit by bomb attack

Khon Kaen - The library of the Prem Tinsulanonda School in this northeastern province was hit by a bomb attack early Saturday, police said. No one was injured.

The explosion occurred at the school in Nam Pong district at 3 am.

The school was located near the Prem Tinsulanonda Army base.

Police said the bomb was made of TNI explosives.

The Nation

[marquess]

On the BTS everyday is Childrens' Day

[Thai at Heart]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

Is there a military parade somewhere that I haven't read about?

On the front page of the "other paper", I can see the PM beaming with the "little rangers" who are proudly saluting something at the approximate age of 7. In the article they proudly proclaim that the kids will help to maintain orderat government house. Actually, I will give the PM the benefit of the doubt and say actually that he has a rather pained smile as if to wonder how on earth he has got himself into a photo opportunity like this.

Who exactly they plan to be rangering in 10 or 12 years time is a little beyond me, but they do seem extremely proud. How children's day became commandeered by kids crawling over tanks is well beyond me.....

[sirchai]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

Is there a military parade somewhere that I haven't read about?

Kids everywhere should have access to quality education opportunities and a proper health service.......

I guess I also missed the military part, sorry.

Well, to be honest, an article in a newspaper, and the reality is not always the same.

1. Educational institutions.....

with their superficial wasted time, flag up bla, bla, bla, where nobody's listening to, sports weeks, parades, together with miserable food at the schools' canteen, mixed up with candies, which gives the principal a few more baht in his/her pocket makes little kids to sugar junkies.

How could they even follow a Thai lesson, high on sugarjaba?

They have to reach M.1 level to understand how to use plastic bags, instead of condoms? Where's the education going to? Who educated the educators, and how? Or better said: What are they teaching them? I could go on and on and on...........

2. Health services? What a joke. Living in the lower North-east of this wonderful country made me understand that helmets are only to wear for the cops. Otherwise they'll stop you until 5 pm and you'll have to pay a fine on your Fino.

Accidents shouldn't occur on weekends, or after sundown, because there's mostly no doctor available. You can't even stop to help, when you come to an accident, because then they'd do all that you were the one who caused it with your white skin.

You can't get out at night, especially as a girl, because there's no cop around. More and more kids sniff glue, the consumption of Jaba is rising like hell. Why? It's easier to live in a dream, than being a nobody, making 176 baht a day.

500 schools became "World Class Standard Schools.". Could anybody please tell me what that is? What about an African World Jungle Class School in the Sahara?

I just came back from a hospital where I had to visit my friend, oh my god. Or better said: Holy shit. I'd be impolite to write what I'd just seen. Please forgive them, because they don't know what they do. And to be honest: I guess that's the problem almost everywhere.

They just don't get it. But it's easy to write some superficial bullshit about something which isn't existing.

Or not yet? Arrai na???? :jap:

[mkawish]

Are you a tour guide in Thailand?

I do hope you are properly licensed and stuff, right?

I do agree with you about some major differences between and among many Thai, Farang and other nationalities.

Well, what do you expected?

A ten yr old and his sister of 12 yr old have had never been taught to wash dishes nor their own clothes, even though they have washing machine and dishwasher. Imagine that.

Everything, well practically almost everything, is catered to them practically on silver plate and silver spoon, well in this family, they prefer chopsticks....

Yes, Thailand needs major overhaul on education among many other things.

Education in Thailand is schooling. In other words, it's more like schooling a shoal of fish from point A to point B - than it is about real education. I think schools are over-rated in terms of importance. Just as important (or more so) is developing one's moral compass and a real appreciation for science and nature. Much of what a child embraces is shown to them by elders. Elders are often their parents, relatives, teachers, and public figures. Unfortunately, in Thailand, those people often are bad examples. Take one very prominent public figure, for example: Mr. Thaksin. He influenced several generations of Thais to embrace the concept that greed is good, lying is ok. Thaksin and others in high places have shown that corruption is fine, particularly when it makes you richer.

I've taken Thais and hill tribers and farang to frolic in nature, specifically climbing steep ravines and exploring caves. Among those in the 15 to 30 yr old range, the farang and hill tribers will go right in to nature and have a blast. The Thais, on the other hand, will be trepidatious (if they go at all). They'll be slower moving in, and apprehensive of natural settings. They want to be near their cars. Some seem like they've never been away from flat floors or flat lawns. They miss their TV, computer, and eating, so they can't be away from those things for more than about an hour.

[phiphidon]

The future belongs to the children.

There is little hope for a nation that on Children's day teaches its kids to become snipers, shows them tanks, guns and other military hardware.

Is there a military parade somewhere that I haven't read about?

On the front page of the "other paper", I can see the PM beaming with the "little rangers" who are proudly saluting something at the approximate age of 7. In the article they proudly proclaim that the kids will help to maintain orderat government house. Actually, I will give the PM the benefit of the doubt and say actually that he has a rather pained smile as if to wonder how on earth he has got himself into a photo opportunity like this.

Who exactly they plan to be rangering in 10 or 12 years time is a little beyond me, but they do seem extremely proud. How children's day became commandeered by kids crawling over tanks is well beyond me.....

Maybe he could wait a few years and then call them the Red Guar(d) just for old time sake. He doesn't often miss a photo opportunity even with a pained smile, though maybe this was justified after meeting the head of the Burmese Junta to pave the way for business deals with an oppressive regime.

Red Bull, the rather famous energy drink, has its origins in Thailand, and was originally called Red Guar. (from interesting facts for kids, http://www.strange-f...-about-thailand )

[jayjay0]

Almost a fantastic editorial. Skirted around the confronting realities a bit too widely for my likings.

Too many children in the rural areas still struggle to receive decent and accessible education and healthcare. This is not good enough. More needs to be done to ensure that they receive these basic rights. As a result of this failing, many young people still aspire to migrate to the cities instead of working to develop the homes and communities where they grew up.

That's almost delightfully delicate phrasing. But Thailand doesn't need delicate. Thailand needs to be confronted!

There are documentaries that could be made in a few hours that would rock Thai culture to the core, and wake everyone up from their comfortable cocoons of denial. They could be shown directly following the anthem in cinemas, catch everyone whilst they're still standing and unable to pretend to be looking the other way...

Compulsory education through Grade 10 would be a start. Once they build and staff an entire wave of new schools. If parents don't like it, tough. Children can work after they get an education, not in lieu of one.

There are documentaries that can be made in all countries that would shake the countrie's to the core. What many people [Farangs] forget is that Thailand is a first world countrie that was not given the time to move up to what other countries have. In most of the western countries the culture moved along with the industrialization. Here in Thailand that has not been the case.

It takes time. I know that in North America 45 years ago drinking and driving was viewed the same as it is here in Thailand today and they did not have people moving there because the drinking was so easy. In the States corruption reached it's peak about 135 years ago in the Grant administration (that is my opinion I could be wrong with the time frame)

Here we are over a hundred years later and it is still with them. In fact Transparency International, says it is getting worse.

The point is Most expats that post here really have no basis for there statements it is just opinions that they like to put forth as irrefutable fact. based on nothing.

In my line of work I traveled around the countrie [Canada and a bit of Washington] and there were many communities to small for a hospital in one they had a hospital and it serviced three or four more smaller communities. It had a permanent staff consisting of one Registered Nurse. That was 15 years ago.

Nothing like listening to expats talk about improving the education here in Thailand by teaching English. An essential language for hookers.

In short I would ask people to allow Thailand to go through the going trough's just as they did where ever thew came from if in fact they have gone through them yet. And let us all remember that even if we don't like certain things here there is enough good things to make us want to stay here. We are not in exile here. We do have a choice.

[TheyCallmeScooter]

He doesn't often miss a photo opportunity even with a pained smile, though maybe this was justified after meeting the head of the Burmese Junta to pave the way for business deals with an oppressive regime.

From Interesting Facts for Red Adults:

1. Was Aung San Suu Kyi released before or after the time the photo was taken above?

2. If after, how long after?

3. Did Abhisit's predecessor (or his proxies) ever had dealings with Burma's junta?

4. If they have, what was the nature of those dealings?

[phiphidon]

He doesn't often miss a photo opportunity even with a pained smile, though maybe this was justified after meeting the head of the Burmese Junta to pave the way for business deals with an oppressive regime.

From Interesting Facts for Red Adults:

1. Was Aung San Suu Kyi released before or after the time the photo was taken above?

2. If after, how long after?

3. Did Abhisit's predecessor (or his proxies) ever had dealings with Burma's junta?

4. If they have, what was the nature of those dealings?

1. Yes, though approximately 2,200 political prisoners are still in prison.

2. 1 Day after - Surely you are not trying to link Abhisits meeting with Than Shwe in Burma with the release of Aung Suu Kyi? He was there to discuss the opening of the border at Mae Sot (he failed) and to pave the way for the deal regarding Dawei Port and the associated Industrial complex (he succeeded). Although this deal is worth $8 Bn it comes at great cost to the Burmese and Thais alike. Not quite as altruistic as it looks. The original idea of developing further Pak Bara further has been downsized allegedly for enviromental reasons. Conveniently enough, after the problems with Map Ta Phut, the shifting of the Industry base to Dawei means that the Burmese have to deal with the enviromental concerns and not the Thais.

3. Yes Thaksin had dealings with the Military Junta.

4. There is much speculation on the discussions held about the PTT trying to get into natural gas exploration, the flow of drugs over the border etc. which is probably true but more likely Shin Satellites' stake in Burma and his personal coffers. This does not excuse Abhisits visit which is just as cynical. Though not involving his personal fortune (or lack of), it does involve peoples lives for the sake of business interests.

I am quite happy to discuss the Abhisit meeting with Than Shwe and the Dawei Port issue with you and others (as it seems to have been pretty much ignored on the TV forum) but I don't think that I can raise a new topic and we are in danger of veering off the topic heading.

[cdnvic]

Bangkok post material removed.

[Buchholz]

in danger of veering off the topic heading

mission accomplished

Anyway, had a great day with the kids at the Navy Base. All the kids there obviously had great fun and thoroughly enjoyed their time onboard the ships.

Of course, now they'll all grow up to become maniacal killers... just like what happened to the millions, that as kids, played with toy guns and spent hours playing "war".

Sheesh... I thought that sort of nonsense association was completely disproved decades ago.

.

[geriatrickid]

From Interesting Facts for Red Adults:

1. Was Aung San Suu Kyi released before or after the time the photo was taken above?

2. If after, how long after?

3. Did Abhisit's predecessor (or his proxies) ever had dealings with Burma's junta?

4. If they have, what was the nature of those dealings?

If you are trying to link Abhisit with the hostage's release then you really have lost touch with reality. Her release was due solely to the pressure brought by the following parties; EU, USA, Australia and Canada. Thailand has done nothing to support the poor woman, nor has it been effective in the matter of sanction compliance. Thailand is in good company with India and China in that regard.

Thailand is a friend of the Burmese junta just as it was a friend of Pol Pot has he murdered millions in Cambodia.

You lose any semblance of credibiliity when you make unfounded suggestions. Mr. Abhisit is more concerned about keeping his own country from exploding than he is in such subjects as basic human rights in Burma..

In respect to Childrens Day, I don't suppose anyone gave any thought to the dead foetuses in the temples? You know the cell conglomerates that were aborted because Thailand does not have the facilities to support women in distress.

[phiphidon]

in danger of veering off the topic heading

mission accomplished

Anyway, had a great day with the kids at the Navy Base. All the kids there obviously had great fun and thoroughly enjoyed their time onboard the ships.

Of course, now they'll all grow up to become maniacal killers... just like what happened to the millions, that as kids, played with toy guns and spent hours playing "war".

Sheesh... I thought that sort of nonsense association was completely disproved decades ago.

.

Well that was rather tongue in cheek but as we're on the subject of children, I didn't start it..................

[jayjay0]

From Interesting Facts for Red Adults:

1. Was Aung San Suu Kyi released before or after the time the photo was taken above?

2. If after, how long after?

3. Did Abhisit's predecessor (or his proxies) ever had dealings with Burma's junta?

4. If they have, what was the nature of those dealings?

If you are trying to link Abhisit with the hostage's release then you really have lost touch with reality. Her release was due solely to the pressure brought by the following parties; EU, USA, Australia and Canada. Thailand has done nothing to support the poor woman, nor has it been effective in the matter of sanction compliance. Thailand is in good company with India and China in that regard.

Thailand is a friend of the Burmese junta just as it was a friend of Pol Pot has he murdered millions in Cambodia.

You lose any semblance of credibiliity when you make unfounded suggestions. Mr. Abhisit is more concerned about keeping his own country from exploding than he is in such subjects as basic human rights in Burma..

In respect to Childrens Day, I don't suppose anyone gave any thought to the dead foetuses in the temples? You know the cell conglomerates that were aborted because Thailand does not have the facilities to support women in distress.:jerk:

Well it certainly is interesting the out look some people have on Children day.

Sinking pretty low to use it as a launching pad against a Government that no longer exists in there relationship to a certain murdering Tyrant over 30 years ago. Are you trying to say the present government would support Poi Pot

[geriatrickid]

in danger of veering off the topic heading

mission accomplished

Anyway, had a great day with the kids at the Navy Base. All the kids there obviously had great fun and thoroughly enjoyed their time onboard the ships.

Of course, now they'll all grow up to become maniacal killers... just like what happened to the millions, that as kids, played with toy guns and spent hours playing "war".

Sheesh... I thought that sort of nonsense association was completely disproved decades ago.

The association was not disproven. Apparently the American Academy of Pediatrics disagrees with you since their position is that guns toy or otherwise and children do not mix well. I suggest you read; PEDIATRICS Vol. 111 No. 1 January 2003, pp. 75-79

Although controversy exists,^7,8 toy gun play has been associated with aggressive behavior. Observational studies have found that when toy guns are introduced into play settings, levels of aggressive behavior increase.^9,10 Others have found that toy gun play and parental physical punishment were associated with a higher level of aggression.¹¹

7. Hellendoorn J, Harinck F. War toy plan and aggression in Dutch kindergarten children. Soc Dev.1997; 6 :340 –354

8. Sutton-Smith B. War toys and childhood aggression. Play Cuture.1998; 1 :57 –69

9. Turner CW, Goldsmith D. Effects of toy guns and airplanes on children's antisocial free play behavior. J Exp Child Psychol.1976; 21 :303 –315[CrossRef][Web of Science]

10. Hardy MS, Armstrong FD, Martin BL, Strawn KN. A firearm safety program for children: they just can't say no. Dev Behav Pediatr.1996; 17 :216 –221[Web of Science]

11. Watson MW, Peng Y. The relation between toy gun play and children's aggressive behavior. Early Educ Dev.1992; 3 :370 –389

Although there are no pictures or images for you to cut and paste, you may wish to spend some time doing a literature review. I am surprised that your comment Of course, now they'll all grow up to become maniacal killers... just like what happened to the millions, that as kids, played with toy guns and spent hours playing "war". did not draw a comment on the USA's propensity for wars and violent confrontations. From Panama to Grenada and to some other adventures.

[TheyCallmeScooter]

In keeping with the Children's Day theme....

you did too! (start it)

He doesn't often miss a photo opportunity even with a pained smile, though maybe this was justified after meeting the head of the Burmese Junta to pave the way for business deals with an oppressive regime.

But Children's Day is over now. So, to your answers....(for the benefit of any bright children reading heheh)

1. Yes, though approximately 2,200 political prisoners are still in prison.

2. 1 Day after

3. Yes Thaksin had dealings with the Military Junta.

4. Shin Satellites' stake in Burma and his personal coffers. This does not excuse Abhisits visit which is just as cynical.

1. One step at a time, my friend. He's not Superman, one can merely be forgiven for making that assumption.

2. I'd request you please answer only the questions I ask of you, to assist the jury. So, you claim that one day after Abhisit met with the Burmese junta for the first time ever, almost miraculously and purely randomly, The Lady was surprising sprung from her imprisonment at her home? Just like that, hey? Without any alternative explanation or theory for why?

What delightful serendipity! A glorious coincidence of delight! After 7 years of unbroken incarceration, Abhisit the Superman meets the junta the first time, and poof, just like that, they get a hunch to release their most feared enemy, the greatest threat their regime has, in the entire world....sure, why not release her. Without reason. Or possible motive. In such coincidental and surprising and unexpected time, as well.

Why, it almost seems like they really wanted to for some reason. Like maybe they were trying to prove something to someone. But what would I know....

3. Thank you for your cooperation. Your answer is, of course, correct. You receive one gold star.

4. That's the answer I was, in fact, looking for. Technically correct, but I would have like a more detailed response. The truth was he lent the junta 4 billion didn't he?

And the 4 billion wasn't really his to lend, was it?

And it was lent with the understanding that it be passed straight back to Thaksin, via his personal company, isn't that correct?

And it was a company Thaksin should have sold prior to buying his public office, shouldn't he have?

So as not to present the conflict-of-interest he clearly intended it to become, isn't that correct?

His little side business whilst conducting affairs-of-state, to the stunning benefit of that little telecommunications company, you concede the outright corruption evident of course?

Not even considering the whole loaning Thailand's money to a junta, at preferential (and very costly for Thailand), thing.

Not even considering the whole loaning with the understanding it was going straight into Thaksin's pockets thing.

Not even considering the fact that he never paid tax on any of the insane corruption thing.

Not even considering the fact that he coddled the junta, by explaining to the world why he understood the need for ASSK to be incarcerated. And listed extensive, ridiculously unacceptable, reasons justifying the deprivation of her liberty.

Not even considering the fact that he has since been convicted for this specific gross abuse of power (gross to the power of gross, if we accurately describe the level of gross), hasn't he? By a high court who's verdict he promised to accept, no? Until it went against him, refresh my memory on that, would you?

Yeah...pretty ridiculous to compare the two 'dealings' with the junta.

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But still, in a vacuum, you are completely right. Thaksin's gross corruption and his shameful conspiring with the junta to defraud Thailand....still would not automatically justify a future Thai PM going there purely for economic reasons, even if he was doing it with Thailand's money, for Thailand's benefit rather than personal, and without compromising his dignity (much to your obvious chagrin, I note...).

It would not automatically justify sacrificing ideals, just for the sake of making deals. Even if those deals are made for the benefit of Thailand, rather than oneself.

But if - hypothetically - the visit was a cover which allowed said PM to put some serious private pressure on a junta who would feel the power of that pressure and respond...but who publicly need to save face of course, can't have Thailand ordering them around like lackeys right....if the visit (and maybe the deals themselves) were mere cover allowing the release of one DSAAK, who happened to be a global hero and nobel peace prize laureate, all but resigned to a life of incarceration, for whom all hope appeared to be lost....

And that wonderful example of inspiration was sprung instantly, a day after the visit....without justification, explanation, or any plausible unrelated reason aside from the one suggested by timing...

Well, everything looks very different all of a sudden, don't you agree?

It's one hell of a coincidence. So much so, it's almost implausible for it to be a coincidence.

If you are trying to link Abhisit with the hostage's release then you really have lost touch with reality. Her release was due solely to the pressure brought by the following parties; EU, USA, Australia and Canada. Thailand has done nothing to support the poor woman, nor has it been effective in the matter of sanction compliance. Thailand is in good company with India and China in that regard.

Thailand is a friend of the Burmese junta just as it was a friend of Pol Pot has he murdered millions in Cambodia.

You lose any semblance of credibiliity when you make unfounded suggestions.

Hmm. A personal attack in response to an assumed, unstated, link between two coincidentally (freakishly so) events. Why, the fact you jumped to that conclusion means you too were unnerved by the spooky coincidence.

Hey look, I have not a speck of evidence aside from the logic stated above.

But to suggest I've lost touch with reality, and claim her release was due to the combined efforts of a stack of nations which resorted to economic sanctions against the regime for many years, without one speck of success, because the regime doesn't deal with them and literally ignores them completely....to claim the non-effectual efforts of these nations (who clearly couldn't give a flying f about Burma or DASSK, no oil, no nukes, who cares) suddenly became MAGICALLY effectual after years of being laughed at....a stunning 180 degree reversal from non-effective to effective, perfect reversal as you see....for no given or plausible reason whatsoever to explain the about face....to suggest someone who poses the almost clear assumption that there would have to be a link between Abhisit's visit and her INSTANT release (by virtue of the sheer timing of the unexplained event)....to suggest that person has somehow lost touch with reality...

Well Sir, I thank you for the compliment. One of us is in la-la-land. I have a feeling we disagree on our respective geographic locations.

You are right about Thailand having been in poor company in the past in their propping up of the junta, "active supporting the regime", I believe it was how Senator McCain described it at the time...but you need to be careful not to confuse a man's actions...with the country's actions.

The country didn't lend their money to the regime for Thaksin to pocket. Thaksin lent their money to Burma for himself to pocket.

Thailand didn't explain why the junta was justified in incarcerating her. Thaksin explained how it was sensible and understandable for them to do so.

Thailand has not been ineffectual at those ineffectual sanctions you believe suddenly become magically effectual the day after Abhisit's visit. Well, they have. But it would have been pretty rude of Thaksin to start enforcing a global blockade...when he's become such good mates with his buddies in Burma, no? Pretty rude, is how I think they would have taken it. Maybe it would have resulted in billions less profit for Thaksin, if he slapped them on the face like that.

On the matter of my lost credibility, you'll of course concede the irony in suggesting so, after failing to provide any logical or even remotely plausible foundation for your wild suggestions, right?

I provided both a logical and a legitimately plausible foundation for my suggestion. You're looking a bit shaky on your air, over there.

The association was not disproven.

This is actually true, I suspect. My own experience strongly suggests so. At 16, I saw an FA/18 hornet doing a low level pass, and the next 5 years of my life were wasted on the process leading up to flying them.

Only for the greatest waste of monumental effort in my life (full of such monumental wastages) to hit me in my first few training sorties in light aircraft. Untreatable violent air sickness. Thank you, come again.

Stupid military associations.

[Buchholz]

in danger of veering off the topic heading

mission accomplished

Anyway, had a great day with the kids at the Navy Base. All the kids there obviously had great fun and thoroughly enjoyed their time onboard the ships.

Of course, now they'll all grow up to become maniacal killers... just like what happened to the millions, that as kids, played with toy guns and spent hours playing "war".

Sheesh... I thought that sort of nonsense association was completely disproved decades ago.

The association was not disproven. Apparently the American Academy of Pediatrics disagrees with you since their position is that guns toy or otherwise and children do not mix well. I suggest you read; PEDIATRICS Vol. 111 No. 1 January 2003, pp. 75-79

Although controversy exists,^7,8 toy gun play has been associated with aggressive behavior. Observational studies have found that when toy guns are introduced into play settings, levels of aggressive behavior increase.^9,10 Others have found that toy gun play and parental physical punishment were associated with a higher level of aggression.¹¹

7. Hellendoorn J, Harinck F. War toy plan and aggression in Dutch kindergarten children. Soc Dev.1997; 6 :340 –354

8. Sutton-Smith B. War toys and childhood aggression. Play Cuture.1998; 1 :57 –69

9. Turner CW, Goldsmith D. Effects of toy guns and airplanes on children's antisocial free play behavior. J Exp Child Psychol.1976; 21 :303 –315[CrossRef][Web of Science]

10. Hardy MS, Armstrong FD, Martin BL, Strawn KN. A firearm safety program for children: they just can't say no. Dev Behav Pediatr.1996; 17 :216 –221[Web of Science]

11. Watson MW, Peng Y. The relation between toy gun play and children's aggressive behavior. Early Educ Dev.1992; 3 :370 –389

Although there are no pictures or images for you to cut and paste, you may wish to spend some time doing a literature review. I am surprised that your comment Of course, now they'll all grow up to become maniacal killers... just like what happened to the millions, that as kids, played with toy guns and spent hours playing "war". did not draw a comment on the USA's propensity for wars and violent confrontations. From Panama to Grenada and to some other adventures.

Indeed, millions of children the world over (the USA certainly had no monopoly on it) that played with those items and played those games as children... are all grown up to become aggressive serial killers.

You say the AAP disagrees with me and then the first quote is "Although controversy exists,"...

There's no causal relationship.... otherwise, my first line would be true.

Anyway, my comment was in regard to Children's Day and the rather silly connections between how one day out of the year was going to influence these children to the extent that was implied.

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