Shanghai is Shanghai is Shanghai is Shanghai.

It is the city on the sea. In Pin yin,Shang for up and hai is sea! Situated at the center of China's vast eastern coastline, Shanghai is located near the mouth of its most productive river system, the Yangzi. Matteo Ricci (1552-1610),an astronomer for the Ming court. The Jesuits succeeded in converting many educated Chinese, including a Shanghai-born official named Xu Guangqi (1562-1633) who lived 71 years on earth. The impression of Paul Xu and his Jesuit friends may be seen in Xujiahui where the double-spired St. Ignatius Cathedral stands tall and proud. The profusion of jobs has attracted many Chinese from other corners of China to Shanghai but they do need training of marketable skills. "Keys for Economic Understanding" is useful for reference in this regard. Local Pan family built Yu Yuan in honor of aging father Pan in Chinese character as the same "hanga" i.e. Hanzi for Korean last name of Ban, the Secretary General of the United Nations. There is the cultural affinity that we can detect easily. Westerners brought savoire faire to Shangahi but they need to learn the Wu dialect and Mandarin as all Shanghainese can handle both Mandarin and Shanghai local dialect. "A Glimpe of the Chinese Language" is hereby dedicated for communication and cultural exchange. US Marines bid farewell at the Bund in Shanghai,December 1941. In the 21 century,my youngest son is Principal Violist with USMC Band and his photo resembles my father who taught at Anglo_Chinese school for three decades and such photo can be viewed from uncle Loh's book. Like grandfather,like grandson. That is the heredity. Even my second uncle's grandson in Germany and another son in L.A. do look like me a bit due to heredity. Such is the evidence of Genes! Xie Shihao aka Francis Shieh on September 30, 2007 at 2.36 p.m.

President Nixon was in Shanghai in 1972

Shanghai is, after all, China's richest and most sophisticated city.
Kudos to fellow Shanghainese, the city will undoubtedly be the powerhouse that drives China through the 21st century, becoming once again the dominant East Asian, if not the global star metropolis. Shanghai Expo in 2010 is coming soon!
The typical Shanghai dishes are:
Tipang - pork rump
Shui jing xia ren - Crystal-like shrimps in rice wrapper
Suji - veggie chicken
Suya - veggie duck
Shenjie mantou and the most famous Xiaolongbao i.e.petty pork dumpling with gravy
Xie Shihao,the native of Shanghai. September 30, 2007

WashPost,Sept.26,2007 page A14 In China,a moon cake for all

For Mid-Autumn Festival,(Lunar 8/15) Bakers replace traditional filling with trendier fare: Workers pack up hundreds of moon cakes in Nanjing in preparation for the festival. Millions of Chinese will exchange moon cakes as part of the networking ritual. Lanterns dominate during the festival, which traditionally marks the end of harvest. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. Sept. 26, 2007 at 6.50 p.m.

WashPost,Sept.26,2007: Marriott: 11 hotels in Beijing

Page D7: Marriott's Olympic Goal: 11 Hotels in Beijing by the start of the Olympics in August 2008. Another 20 Marriott-branded hotels are scheduled to open in China through 2010 in anticipation of Expo Shanghai in 2010. This is evidence of Sino-American Economics.
Bank of America owned 8.2% of China Construction Bank. Such bank sets record for Shanghai IPO. Another evidence as well.
Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. Sept. 26, 2007

An A in artlessness:Wm Howard III wrote in Washpost 9/25/07

In Sept. 21 Washington Sketch column on a presidential news conference, Dana Milbank quoted President Bush as saying of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice: "She's the PhD and I'm the C student, and just look at who's the president and who's the adviser. Not only is this terribly insulting to a trusted adviser, but it makes one wonder if we would have gotten better governance if we had elected a better student to run our country." My comment: I did not vote for him in 2004. Also, I remember General McArthur was an A student at the West Point but IKE was an average student. Moreover,President Wilson was a C student at Princeton. Furthermore,when I was teaching in Los Angeles in 1958-1961,I remembered a case that the C student was in charge of personnel and an A student was not hired. That is life as the realistic paradox. I also heard from a Judge that A student would become a Professor, B student as a Judge and C student as a successful businessman to be a millionaire. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. Sept. 25, 2007 at 6.52 p.m.

American Automakers in China:WashPost 9/25/07

On page D5: Ford opens 2nd Chinese asssembly plant in Nanjing. Chief executive Mulally said: "the most important goal is to meet the rapidly growing demand in China's car market. He stressed that the strongest auto makers will ultimately be the ones that use each market to its advantage. The real competitors going forward are the ones who are going to be able to leverage their global assets around the world."

General Motors to sell Buick SUVs: GM signed a deal worth more than $800 million to export Buick Enclave sport-utility vehicles to China over a four year period beginning in 2008. GM is to send 5000 of the SUVs each year through its import partner, SAIC Motor of Shanghai.

The above is another empirical evidence of Sino-American Economics. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. September 25, 2007 Mooncake,anyone? It is Mid-Autumn Festival in China to be observed by all those who would look at the moon with joyful reflection and jovial mood.

Ways to build up metabolism

1. Shao chi duo dun: petty meals at intervals.
2. Duan lian duan lian; Walking is good exercise. Strengthening arms and legs.
3. Tai Ji Boxing with free movements of the limb to avoid physical limbo.

To balance the reflex with action resulting the following:
More pep with moxie.
Better mobility and agility.
Clearer thinking.
Increase stamina
Develop sense of wellness and independence with joy and jovial mood.

Your comments would be appreciated for our mutual good health apropos longevity.

Built-In Military-Industrial Compound-complex Dirigible

Economics in myth at the core: jobs, wages,investment,growth...What are the answers? "Keys for Economic Understanding" is designed to unlock Human Capital via training and retraining for marketable skills as evidenced in globalization of inputs and outputs in socio-economics. The market system may be viewed with awe but there are market imperfections or failure. Adam Smith's "Wealth of Nations" is preceded by moral philosophy. Economics as a branch of philosophy with different languages would make intellectual virtuosos. Economists are students of broad learning united many disciplines such as political science in particular for political economy. The long-cherished "Theory of Work and Study" are much of economic realities in the 21st century. My intensive studies for observation of decision making was a sequel of my arrival at the University of San Francisco after earning my undergraduate degree at St. John's University in Shanghai,China and subsequently at Georgetown Graduate School with focus in Public Administration. As a lifelong student, I am inclined to be spontaneous and instinctive with creative moxie as Xie Shihao with poetic and heroic meaning in the Chinese language coupled with cheerful humor in analyzing shifting economic happenings on daily basis for fun in life as an octogenarian. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. September 24, 2007

Shanghai dialect Revisited by a Shanghainese

Most Chinese people speak a local dialect. Many Shanghainese prefer speaking our own dialect i.e. Shanghai hua; and it may be the only language of older Shanghainese. A lilting(rhythmical swing or flow) dialect, just sounds almost Japanese. Shanghainese is unintelligible to Mandarin speakers and to speakers of most other dialects. When I was teaching at Suzhou University,two girls from Australia called me a tri-lingual guy because they know Mandarin already. Shanghai dialect is derived from the Wu region, south of the Yangzi River. It is helpful to learn the basic rules of the Pin Yin system since one needs to know how it is pronounced in Pin Yin. Modern dictionaries use the Pin Yin of transcription and has been officially adopted by the Library of Congress. Chinese characters are based on pictograms; about 3000 are in regular use; 3500 characters are sufficient for reading a newspaper. However,for a genius scientist, theoretical physicist from Hong Kong,he may know 10,000+ as a Dr. Knowall. Who is the smartest guy in Germany? Not Hitler but Dr.X or Dr. Y. X+Y=Z. Z is Zia in Shanghai hua! Hehehahahoho all the way to come back to Shanghai dialect of the ancestor Zia! My father's last name is Zia,the same surname for the maternal grandfather of the Genius.

Positive attitude as an estate of incalculable value

Be jovial - Caring people would be wonderful deeds especially for family members with smile at such desirable virtue. The conviction from Chinese culture at the origin of everything is the creative reasoning of our motherland. Our hallmark is to live simply, love generously, care deeply and speak kindly with moral clout. Studying Chinese calligraphy with the application of Pin Yin sytem of romanization would be an extra dimension for communicating with English-speaking folks who wish to learn the Chinese language via Pin Yin initially and then written characters with calligraphy as a form of art for artists and music in 4 tones of Mandarin for fun.
It would be necessary for all to study arts and humanities with Asian tradition to be social scientists from a variety of social science perspectives. Empirical and theoretical contributions of the different social science disciplines are sine qua non to better understand the nature of any society with concerns of various types of culture,family,geography, education and stratification in society. Needless to say, political economy deals with everyday happenings in the world. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. September 23,2007

Economics and culture i.e. language and philosophy

Every language is a set of symbols used in communicating ideas. It is essential to be aware that people would convey the same words with idiolect,plus nuances;consequently, understanding is dependent upon the receiver and the communicator's agreeing on the same meaning.
When we give every consideration to the meaning of a foreign word or an expression, we adapt our language to gain understanding of the American language or the Chinese language and to secure interest leading to motivation, for words not only express but impress, and often it is the impression that motivates.

Philosophy: the search for the understanding of the basic truths and principles of the universe, life and morals and human perception and reception of all branches of knowledge including economics and physics et al., et alia.

Conceptual Understanding of "One Nation,Two Systems" in Economics

The following is my lecture in Hong Kong,February 1990 as a Fulbright Senior Scholar:

Due to historical legacy, two political and economic systems have existed in China Proper with SAR in Hong Kong and Macao and Taiwan as a part of China.

The Chinese government has legal sovereignty and makes every effort to strengthen such goal with the economic benefits to be derived through the multiplier effects. The objectives are to stress macro economic planning with the promotion of private interests so that monopoly can be avoided by law but enterprises can be active to honor the market(price) system within the macroeconomic model of public interest under Socialism with Chinese characteristics.

China's structural reforms have already activated markets with enterprises playing a significant role in the circular flow for the best interest of the nation as a whole apropos of benign optimality with clear empirical evidence to date.

Business firms get the services of the factors of production and transform these productive inputs into useful commodities as output to realize production fuction. When commodities are produced, there are functional market system in evidence. The supply and demand mechanism can alter the compositon of output in a market economy. The ever-changing new equilibrium points would correspond to the new points on the society's production possibilities curve with conceptual understanding. Cf. Harvard Professor Richard T. Gill's textbook on page 19 and page 31 as my contribution in "Economics of the Public Interest."(4th Edition) To be verified by the publication in China Daily, March 6, 1996 on page 4.
Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. September 22, 2007

Supercapitalism by Robert Reich Knopf. 272 pp.&25

Washington Post,Book World,Sept.16,2007: The Transformation of Business, Democracy, and Everyday Life. Do Capitalism and democracy go hand in hand? "Not always" as per former Labor Secretary Robert Reich. Reich argues that democracy has weakened. Inequalities have ballooned, and traditional means of keeping them in check have eroded. As citizens, we are losing ground, and the reason is that supercapitalism has spilled over into politics as hard pressed firms seek favors from government. "Political economy" as I cited in "Keys for Economic Understanding" (1971) www.ask.com for reference. Moreover,we can witness such happenings from empirical evidence as well. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on September 22, 2007

US will hit debt ceiling $8.695 trillion

WashPost,9/20/07 D2: Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson told Congress to seek quick action to increase the limit. Such recommendation would be only a matter of time to be approved. Moreover, China has issued more government bonds as well. There is the common ground to get funds from the public in order to have the funding for both governments apropos of the priorities as leaders see fit. Sino-American economics may be witnessed in the days to come for realization with astute analysis from our brain to ponder with sound judgement for some understanding at best.
Optimism begets success and success generates optimism. Political necessity of official optimism would appear when we read the headline statements. Live and learn as lifelong students to watch the happenings in economics in action. Our thoughts become magnetized since monetizing the debt from the FED to the Treasury and vice versa would be the normal operations of monetary policy and fiscal policy in a nutshell for learning,indeed! Expanding our awareness of the world is a lifelong pursuit for fun and understanding. We must adjust our attitude in the positively positive way to understand economic policy otherwise we would misunderstand economics if it is seen in a negative way. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. Sept. 21, 2007

How to find inner peace in USA and in China?

We may deploy our basic force for self-development and the common good. We must monitor good and bad judgment and decision-making for spiritual value with jovial mood all the time. Avoid arrogant, self-centered,stubborn attitude with extraordinary hubris. Neuroscience must be studied. The key trait is to transform a person with the following characteristics:
HUMILITY: Striking the crucial balance between too much ego and not enough in the proper sense.
CURIOSITY: Blending free thinking and discipline without bias of age.
VERACITY: Latin origin for Truth. Honesty is always the best policy.
On daily basis,we ought to have the right kind of reflection and soul-searching effectiveness to detect our strengths and pitfalls.
The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn the Pin Yin system or romanization. "A Glimpse of the Chinese Language" is a useful reference to be able to communicate with the people in the most populous nation in the world and in every nook and corner where Chinese folks are present for understanding.
"In times of change, learners will inherit the earth." said philosopher Eric Hoffer. "Work and Study Cycle Theory" is hereby dedicated to those who wish to learn after starting their careers. Live and learn is my motto as an octogenarian. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao, a lifelong student since 1926. September 21,2007 at 12.15 p.m.

Zhuangzi(4th century BC): Aesthetic attitude

It is said to be an attitude independent of any thought to do with utility,economic value, moral judgement or emotion, and concerned with experiencing the thing per se with detached thought marked by an absence of all desires directed to the object. Such perception of the object is more disengaged than usual from desires and motivations. "Qing jing wu wei" are the Pin Yin system of romanization for 4 Chinese characters. Disinterested may be applied to such an attitude of scepticism.
Confucianism implies richness, subtlety, breadth, and beauty of the sayings of Confucius and Mencius as thinkers. In short, all homosapiens share certain ethical predispositions such as an affective concern for others, a sense of shame and LOVE for Parents and RESPECT and DEFERENCE to elders including octogenarians. Nothing could understand Chinese simply by manipulating so-called scientific symbols according to rules. Knowledge is science per se! Cf. Views into the Chinese Room: New Essays on Searle and artificial intelligence.(Oxford, 2002) Chinese language must be promoted including Pin Yin system of romanization.
Confucius(551-479 BC) The Analects: The wise find pleasure in water, the virtuous find pleasure in hills. The wise are active, the virtuous are tranquil. The wise are joyful;the virtuous are long-lived. The wind is the breath of heaven and earth. Into every corner it unfolds and reaches without choosing between high and low,exalted or humble, it touches everyone! Everything make solitude beautiful. Limitless love, without hatred or enmity. The more I change direction,the wilder the road becomes. All flights go to Shanghai,the land of my birth! Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on September 20, 2007

Growing older or younger as per your mindset

Old age can be enjoyed instead of being endured! One of the factors to enjoying aging is adjustability with fun. Such delight has a bearing on our thought to physical and mental health. Walking and think young as a state of mind. Getting sufficient exercie is important. Old age can be enjoyable with philosophy for peace,contentment and happiness. Age brings wisdom and learning everything in the world for lifelong education. By concentrating on what we are able to do,we can retain a sense of accomplishment from our daily reflection.
Life helps us deliver our best. It is easy to keep an enormous amount of information in our brain. Time to download online so to speak. Success depends on preparation in my lecture to be delivered in March 2008 with an invitation to speak on Chinese culture to adults in USA. Timely words can mend Sino-American economic relationship. Be introspective! Frankly speaking,I can feel like a "xiaohuozi" with learning habits as much as craving for food every day! In a perfect world, music should be in balance to our ears. Vicarious enjoyment can be as effective as real exposure if our mind is set for such happening with cultivated demeanor. You better believe it! Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on September 20, 2007

www.online.sh.cn: Keeping up with Shanghai as a native

I strive to be a well-grounded economist and never lose sight of the impact of economic policy to improve the lives of common folks in USA and in China. Competitiveness may be realized via enhancing productivity as expounded in "Keys for Economic Understanding"(1971) I pursued my studies on the public sector at Georgetown Graduate School from 1948-1950 and had my focus in development economics at the RAND Corporation(1964-1965). Moreover,I had the opportunity to do research on human capital at the United States Department of Labor plus my opportunity of teaching assignment to produce "Keys to Economic Understanding" resulting my dissertation on the topic of "Work and Study Cycle Theory" to stress human resource management in 1978. However,I am still a lifelong student of economics due to the ongoing happenings in the field of Economics searching for the happenings in the real world from the principles effecting economic policies i.e. a priori and a posteriori as empirical evidence. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. Sept. 19, 2007

Senator Obama outlines tax cuts:Washpost 9/19/07

Senator Barack Obama delivered his economic speech proposing $80 billion in tax cuts for working Americans,homeowners and seniors with the declaration that "the wealth of our nation is rooted in the work of our people. Wages are not keeping pace. This isn't the invisible hand of a market at work, it's the successful work of special interests." He proposed eliminating tax returns for 22 million senior citizens, promising that no retiree making less than $50,000 would pay income tax. My comment: The Democratic candidate is certainly helping the middle class seniors. Such proposal is in line with Confucian respect for the aged in the minds of Asian Americans. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. Sept. 19, 2007.

My interests are languages,philosophy and economics

As a lifelong student of Confucianism, I do advocate restoring traditional value and norms as a remedy for the social disorder in USA and other nations. I attempt to put such ideal into practice as the universal search for good value for any society. Admittedly, I was an economist with US Department of Labor in 1965 but my devotion/ passion has been teaching in the fields of languages(English,Chinese Mandarin and Wu dialect) and economics in the macroview in particular.
Confucian ethical ideal includes a general affective concern for others involving dedication to refrain from doing to others what one would not have wished done to oneself with filial piety and loyalty to family and friends. Such attributes are good American and Chinese value as well in the 21st century.
Self cultivation requires one's examining daily life and studying Chinese and Western classics to regain the insight of the meaning of life in this world. Such thoughts would lead to the credo of Christianity.
The theory of language is the theory of a person's knowledge of language to be represented in the minds of the individual apropos of idiolect and nuance.
Linguistics is a branch of cognitive psychology(microeconomics) which studies the mental structure responsible for linguistic competence. I do maintain that economics and culture are interrelated and interdisciplinary in comprehensive approach to be validated and implemented in arts and sciences in the East-West for globalization of knowledge per se.
Socrates says that the bond between teacher and student lasts a lifetime even when the two are no longer together. I remember my Jesuit teachers in China and in USA since 1930s to 1950. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. September 19, 2007

Same values for USA and China Cf.Washpost,9/18/07

On page A6:Democratic hopeful Senator Obama from Illinois urges reappraising values: In a speech at Nasdaq Market(with Chinese flag and the presence of Chinese Ambssador as per CCTV-4 Sept.18) Obama warned that a "what is good for me is good enough" mentality is creeping across Wall Street and echoed FDR in calling for a reappraisal of values. Such situation may be found in China as well so Chinese leaders are stressing public interest(Gong Yi Zhong Guo) for the wellbeing of Chinese society as a whole. There is the common ground for USA and China. Obama said:" The danger with this mentality isn't just that it offends our morals,it's that it endangers our markets." On the Republican side, former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee has spoken out against greed, plutocracy and skyhigh corporate pay packages. Food for thought for thinking folks in USA and in China as analysts for the future of both nations. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Tuesday,Sept.18, 2007

US-China have common interest apropos of the Public

Washington Post,Sept. 17, 2007 page A6: Rumsfeld Foundation(about 20 million) to encourage public service: Loans to microenterprises in developing countries and try to generate support for Asian nations. Rumsfeld would sort through files and works with the Library of Congress and would keep foundation going after he and his wife Joyce have died. That is a worthy cause for students to study public policy in foreign and national security affairs,economics et al. Needless to say,US-China studies would be included with such goal. Both nations are alert to security affairs.
CCTV-4 "Gong yi zhong guo" Pin Yin for four Chinese characters meaning Public Benefits for China i.e. Public Interest is stressed in China for socio-economics i.e. Economics for Chinese society in the 21st century for Economic Construction.
The future depends on empirical evidence for two great nations to have similar interests to work together for the wellbeing of the peoples in the days to come. Both nations are members of the Security Council of the United Nations and both English and Chinese are official languages in the UN. Sino-American Economics would deserve serious attention for humankind on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 7.18 a.m.

Conforming to the good way:Shi qi shan zhe er cong zhi

The above Pinyin system of romanization would be the seven Chinese characters. they would mean to opt the decent way of life when I study in the USA. I am in the exciting phase of my life for the opportunity to travel to lift up my sorrowful heart re the loss of my spouse on February 24, 2007. I have my unique conviction for spiritual joy with implementation and validation of my lifestyle in faith,hope and love. I still remember my mother's admonition before I left China for the United States in 1947 i.e. "Shi qi shan zhe er cong zhi" and I shall cherish such motto in my mind forever. My mother left this mundane world in Shanghai in 1962 when I was teaching in Michigan. Xie Shihao aka Francis Shieh. Septemer 17, 2007

"Naked Economics" by Charles Wheelan: Norton Publisher

Productivity and Human Capital: page 98 Productivity i.e. efficiency-inputs to be converted into outputs. The concept of Human Capital, an economic passport, is elaborated in "Keys for Economic Understanding,""Keys to Economic Understanding" and "Work and Study Cycle Theory." www.ask.com for info. Human capital is the sum total of skills embodied within an individual: education, intelligence, perseverance,charisma,honesty,creativity,work experience and entrepreneurial vigor. The labor market: Some kinds of talent are in greater demand than others such as the scarcity skills of the Chinese language among Non-Chinese.In this respect,"A Glimpse of the Chinese Language" in English is dedicated to all. Cf. www.Amazon.com online book catalog for reference. Human capital makes us more appreciative of art and culture, more able to enjoy the fruits of life. The total stock of human capital as a people defines how well off as a society. Nobel laureate Gary Becker reckons that the stock of education, training, skills constitutes about 75% of the wealth of a modern economy. My comment: China's priority toward education is a typical case today. Unskilled labor is more expensive in USA than in China. Food for thought for economists,indeed! Economics offers insight into wealth, poverty, gender, the environment,discrimination,politics et al. Economics can help us to understand and improve an imperfect world. We must decide how to use a set of tools and what our priorities are,what trade offs we are willing to make,what outcomes we are willing to accept. Nobel laureate Robert Fogel said: "We must first define the good life before economics can help us get there." What is good life in USA? In China? My blog ends here for readers to ponder and reflect and set your scenario. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Sunday,September 16, 2007

Competitive Integration of benevolent folks on earth

I would like to compete for things that are worth winning. No one lives in a vacuum. The more integrated I am with my surroundings,the happier I would be. My life has an enormous impact so I pour my energy and moxie into my relationships. I shall devote my imagination toward creating loving bonds to all folks on earth. Moreover, travel makes it easy to reach into a new land and I shall muster up my guts to enthusiastically welcome stangers in the world. I shall live to be a true independent individual. I am not a judge to differentiate the good from the indifferent. I am invested in my doings with a smile on my face. I have the best resource with "X" that marks the spot for "XIE" i.e. thanking others as a matter of courtesy. I would create the name of aesthetics for loving the beautiful environment as I would see with spiritual joy. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Saturday, September 15, 2007

Alan Greenspan's" The Age of Turbulence" in the real world

Washington Post, September 15, 2007 page A1,A7:Greenspan argues that deficits must matter and that uncontrolled government spending and borrowing can produce high inflation and economic devastation. My comment: Look at the empirical evidence apropos of War in Iraq and Afghanistan. Greenspan maintains that immigration reform, by opening up the United States to the world's very large and growing pool of skilled workers will help reduce the inequality of incomes. My comment: Both the United States and China do need the training of skilled workers in short supply. Apprenticeship would be timely and useful in coordination with community colleges as elaborated in "Keys for Economic Undestanding" for USA but collaboration with China would be in the best interests of both nations. Greenspan shows a flash of hope at the end of his memoir. "Adaptation is in our nature, a fact that leads me to be deeply optimistic about our future." He offers a graduate education in global economics with detailed analysis of the global economy and the prospects in Japan, China, Russia, India et al. In Italy, pasta prices have risen as much as 20% this year. My comment: US and China do have common problems such as rising prices for staples in grocery bills due to higher wheat prices. (page D1,D3) For every extra dollar spent on groceries, a dollar less will be spent on discretionary items like clothes and entertainment and other purchases that fuel overall economic growth. At a time of uncertainty over the housing market,stock market and jobs, consumers are more acutely aware of inflation leading to recession i.e. Consumption sector occupies roughly one third of GDP. Let us watch FED policy to reduce rate on Tuesday,September 18, 2007. Francis Shieh,a lifelong student of economics. September 15, 2007

Parlez-vous Mandarin? Wu(Shanghai) dialect?

One of the best ways to add VALUE to your resume these days is to gain international skills and experience. That means boosting your foreign language skills. www.Dictyon.net for information. Mandarin is arguably the most useful second language in the business world due to China's growing economic prowess. However, if you are in Shanghai to see the tallest building in the world,it would be desirable to learn and speak Wu(Shanghai) dialect. Books have been published by Jiaotong University Press if interested. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao,a native of Shanghai and taught Mandarin and Shanghai dialect for many years. "A Glimpse of the Chinese Language" in English Cf. www.Amazon.com online book catalog for reference.
Core values make the educated what it is; without them, we cannot succeed. They are values that instill confidence and earn lasting respect. They are the values that buttress mental and physical courage when we enter China. In essence, they are the two pillars of professionalism that provide the foundation for understanding folks with other culture at every level. September 15, 2007

Political Economy in action:Economic concerns rise after Abe's exit

Washington Post, September 14, 2007 page D5: Analysts predict market instability brought on by political uncertainty in Japan. Such event would hold negative implications for stock market and economy in the days to come. Political and economic nerves are justaposed as business folks view such happening with concern. Billionaire investor Warren Buffett reduced his firm's stake in China's oil and gas producer, PetroChina. Reason: The firm's investments in Sudan, a nation in question.
US-China share the common interests: Teacher shortage is obstacle to quality education. The National Commission on Teaching reports that it costs $50,000 to recruit, train and lose a teacher. I started teaching in Shanghai in 1945. At present,I am still interested in teaching as an octogenarian. I even taught until September 7, 2007 since 2006 with six hours a day from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at www.Dictyon.net.

Dark chocolate can fit my healthy appetite but Swiss White Chocolate Drink from General Food serves as coffee in my taste.

Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Friday, September 14, 2007 at Andrews AFB Library at 9.55 a.m.

Appreciation of sweet folks with positive scenarios for fun

Channels of creativity enable me to break new ground all the time. There are amusing happenings with wacky events every day when I am observant. Life is ripe for new things in the world. Light and Truth are the motto of St. John's University in Shanghai,China, my alma mater for my undergraduate degree in 1946. Light can be ignited from forms of captivating ideas, images that fascinate me and truth would make life more meaningful. Love conquers all folks for whatever activities we are engaged. When there is love,there is no labor. We would do things if we love to do. That is not incorrect! Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Friday,September 14, 2007 at 7.05 a.m.

Francis Bacon and Francis Shieh/ Chinese culture

Inspired by Chinese ideograms, it was envisaged by FRANCIS BACON solely as a medium for international communication as Characteristica Universalis. Francis Shieh has reiterated that the Chinese characters are symbols with radicals to indicate part of the meaning in the name of semantics. "A Glimpse of the Chinese Language" in English is hereby dedicated to all folks to have some ideas about the Chinese language,as classical as Greek and as modern as French with built-in art re calligraphy and music re four tones in Mandarin. China is in the spotlight in 2007 and the Chinese language has been vindicated as a medium for international communication in terms of international business via trade of Chinese products.

Recommending "The Undercover Economist" by Tim Harford. Random House Paperback Publisher.,New York. 2007. Page 236: China is growing richer faster than any country in history. Page 238: Economics is about people. My comments: Economics is about the lifestyle of the people. I am a native of Shanghai,China with my undergraduate degree from China and graduate degrees from the United States. But my lifestyle is still Chinese with Confucianism to stress education and hard work with ethics and morality. Such traits are reflected in the lifestyle of the Chinese in ethnicity to be related to economic growth apropos of betterment of living in the 21st century.

CocaCola can is red, Pepsi has blue. But in China

Washington Post,September 12, 2007 page D8: The design of Pepsi's can with the color of China's national flag:RED in supporting China's national sports team as new marketing campaign. On the same page, China National Petroleum will invest more than $10 billion in a heavy oil venture in Venezuela. The venture is intended to produce up to 1 million barrels a day. It is the biggest oil deal announced since Conoco Philips and Exxon Mobil left the country in June. Francis Shieh,the reader on Thursday, September 13, 2007

AIRLINE Business, September 2007 issue

Cover Feature: Yang Yuanyuan,57 years young as the Aviation Minister of China: Yang outlines his next steps in transforming one of the world's largest and most important aviation market. He shares his vision for the future role of low-cost carriers and pricing liberalisation. Currently there are 24 airlines in China. Market Transformation-1. Large full-service airline with fleet 300-400 aircrafts. 2. Low-cost carriers. 3. Regional aircraft operators. China is in the Headlines with interests from folks all over the world for Olympics in Beijing in 2008 and Shanghai Expo in 2010. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. September 12, 2007

More peaceful endeavors with equanimity and tenacity

Doors and hearts are open when I have interactions with my nearest and dearest. I am confident about the delight of my secret thought without losing my cool. Take control of my mind with insatiable and positive enlightenment. There is no rush to remind myself that patience is a virtue with octogenarian wisdom. I am more capable of handling my busy life than ever before. For my daily prayers, I find myself striving for tranquility when I could be content with my focus on spiritual joy. I seem to be empowered to transform idealistic reasoning to my intellectual utility. Life is as beautiful as it is simple! YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT. There is nary a dull moment as I can connect with gentle folks online in cheerful ways. U.S. and Chinese regulators plan to sign a cooperative agreements that could help resolve disputes. USAToday published in section B MONEY on Monday, September 10, 2007. Washinton Post: China's stake in Hong Kong market sparks fervor from Wall Street Journal. The Hong Kong exchange's share price has more than doubled this year. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Classroom or a country: What it takes to lead...

USA Weekend magazine,Sept. 9th page 7: The most important and demanding job is "the president" but there are plenty who would say "a teacher." Both are well reasoned. Both jobs requires the same skills to achieve success. For both presidents and teachers challenges are constantly repeated. John Qincy Adams could simultaneously write Latin with one hand and Greek with the other. As a Harvard professor of rhetoric and oratory, he vowed to teach 'reason, clothed with speech.' My comment: As China is under the spotlight,perhaps one would write English on one hand and Chinese with the other in the 21st century. "A Glimpse of the Chinese Language" in English would be useful as a reference. www.Amazon.com online book catalog for information. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Wednesday,September 12, 2007

Harvard Business Review, September 2007 issue

Multinationals and local firms for the first time are squaring off in China's rapidly growing middle markets - a critical staging ground for global expansion and the segment from which world-beating companies will emerge. Goldman Sachs' estimates that China will account for 36% of the world incremental GDP between 2000 and 2030. It is becoming clear that business wanting to succeed globally will need to win in China first. China's surging economic growth outpaces the country's ability to educate and apprentice 21st century managers. "Keys for Economic Understanding" is an elaboration of apprenticeship program and economic growth in the United States. The book would serve as a reference for China as well. www.ask.com for reference. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao. September 11, 2007

US-China: Common Ground in education/Security

George Miller,Chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee wrote "The federal government should substantially increase funding to school districts. We should offer performance pay to hardworking and talented teachers based on fair, proved and objective criteria. If we don't treat teachers as valued partners,we'll continue to face an unacceptable teacher shortage, and students will pay the price.

Patriot Day,declared in December 2001: Sept. 11, 2001 to date,marking the sixth anniversary: President Bush and Laura Bush will begin the day at St. John's Episcopal Church in Washington for a service of prayer and remembrance.

I attended St. John's University,Shanghai,China from 1943-1946 as a graduate with B.A. in 1946 and started my teaching career in 1945 in Shanghai until September 7, 2007. I still would like to teach when there is an opportunity for learning twice.

After more than six decades,US and China have the same goal to promote education and fight Terrorism as the common ground for two great nations on both sides of the Pacific in the 21st century.

Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Tuesday,Sept. 11, 2007

Are the rich necessary? Reflecting personal values.

Hunter Lewis is the author for the book: ISBN 978-0-9753662-0-2 Distributed by National Book Network. Cast your vote at " Are the rich necessary.com" if interested?
We wish to attain success as our goal. Some search success as earning lots of income,living comfortably, and retiring early. Others dream of becoming proficient in their chosen field, having folks look up to them as VIP with expertise. Still others view success as the accumulation of meterial things such as owning houses,driving expensive cars,being able to buy anything one likes. Then there are those who equate success with having a harmonious family with good children.
I would endorse all the above but Happiness is not material consumption only,we must have intellectual pursuit,spiritual satisfaction and good health. Any feedback would be welcome with my appreciation. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Monday, September 10, 2007

My drive with my vision in the days to come

I shall nurture my creativity by giving plenty of breathing spaces. My love for my family and friends would make me more loving to other folks in this world. It is wise to do things at an enjoyable and leisurely pace with the productive approach. I would have my golden moment when I communicate with folks online. It is my tone and attitude that convey my state of mind. If I am overly analytical,I shall miss the minds of the common folks. Moreover,if I am overly literal,I shall miss the creative jokes. Needless to say,I need to cultivate my wisdom to hit the balance of thin and heavy lines. Your kind input would be appreciated to improve my way of thinking. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Sunday,September 9, 2007 at 10.24 a.m.

I try to see the positive as my attitude

Any person may never be considered as a nasty rat but as a Mickey Mouse in Disneyland for amusement re our recreational enjoyment. I shall engage in actions that are important to the world as a member of the human race. I believe in good folks all the way. Good communication thrives when there is not an ounce of doubt in my heart or a critical word lingering on my lips. I would stand proudly by loved ones in the human family. Compromise is the best ways to resolve disagreement. My mind is my friend prividing me with cheerful and joyful things in the world. I feel inspired, energized and ready to take action on daily basis. Life depends on movements. On Faith: Anthony Steven-Arroyo,director,Research center for religion in society and culture published the following in the Washington Post,Sept. 8, 2007 Page B9: "I prefer to have someone like Mother Theresa nearby rather than a solipsistic spoilsport, spouting the silly cant of military atheism." My comment: It is necessary to disregard snide comments or remarks when one encounters. Such is a highly recommended motto for all. All of us should be alerted to "XIUYANG" in Pin Yin i.e. Correct behavior in social relationships. Francis Shieh aka Xie Shihao on Sunday,Sept. 9, 2007 at 7.30 a.m.

Italian Tenor Pavarotti left this world at age 71

For your kind reference: After a yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer,Pavarotti left this mundane world. My comment:" Agnes had the same cancer at age 77+ and left on February 24, 2007. We must remind ourselves that all human beings must leave this world sooner or later but we must make some contributions when we are here on earth." "Express" dated Sept. 7-9, 2007 published news about Pavarotti. Moreover, Parts of Patriot Act would need court approval to get Internet records. My comment: "True gold is not afraid of fire but maybe a waste of taxpayers' funding if it is not a worthy cause. However, it is a matter of judgment of the Judge and the minds of folks for accepting or rejecting the Patriot Act. Furthermore, Study reignites withdrawal debate of US forces inside Iraq. Significant reductions consolidations and realighments would appear to be possible and prudent. retired Marine Corps General James Jones led the group for such a study. My comment aprops of funding priorities: "Charity starts at home and there are needs at home for funding, such as repairing the bridges and other educational needs for America's safety and economic development in the 21st century. Francis Shieh,a lifelong student of economics with priority in mind for guns or butter as published in all economics textbooks for our learning objectives. Septemer 8, 2007

Fairplay and Justice to make a difference for family

I am inspired to figure out how I can get back to my hometown,Shanghai,China and Beijing (where I taught in 1993-1996) to have reunion with my sister, another octogenarian whose smile is charismatic from our heredity. She can make the stiffest person go lightheaded and lighthearted. Such irrepressible charm will generate longevity to strive to be a centenarian. I shall be discerning to meet honest and smart folks as my intent. The safest way to resist temptation is to enjoy beauty mentally istead of actually in my eyes. My soul needs the philosophy of Plato for expression to amuse myself. I would steer my dialogue in the direction that I would enjoy as Socrates. Such effort perks up my way of living. Faith, hope and charity would be the motto for all. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on Saturday, September 8, 2007, the 60th anniversary date of my arrival in the United States in San Francisco, California in 1947. Well, six decades of studying,teaching and writing as my interests for coming to USA from China. In Pin Yin,"San shu zhu yi i.e. du shu,jiao shu and xie shu." In English: Three isms as a scholar aprops of my goal since I was a young man in 1940s. Thanks for reading my thinking on this very memorable day,indeed!"Zhide jinian de rizi" in Pin Yin system of romanization.

Theory and Law: Subject to changes as needed

Albert Einstein's Theory of Relativity: E=MC square: A scientific theory explains facts or phenomena that have been shown to be true by repeated observation.
"Work and Study Cycle Theory" www.ask.com for the same rationale.
If there are more folks who need to work but would get back to studies when they would be able to enhance productivity for their careers and personal enrichment. Such happenings do exist in the 21st century to validate and implement "Work and Study Cycle Theory"(1978) in the United States and in China apropos of Sino-American Economics. Such work is listed at the www.loc.gov and Georgetown University Library online catalog for reference.
Law of Supply and Demand: Laws are not absolute and maybe amended should new data warrant such case. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao. September 7, 2007

Philology of Semantics: Idiolect and nuance galore

Greetings to all good folks. I would keep score of my laughs I have shared with others for our good fortune without negative thoughts! I keep my daily schedule for splurging on books,magazines and papers as a lifelong learner. I would refuse to make an issue out of a non-issue and devote myself to have an opportunity as an octogenarian for wholesome living.The person seems on the lowest totem-pole would have spiritual clout in the heart and in the mind as the victor and winner in life. Have a nice day with understanding of semantics focusing on idiolect and nuance. Thank you very much. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on Friday,September 7, 2007

CCTV-4 September 7, 2007

President Bush met Chinese President Hu in Australia. President Hu reiterated Taiwan as a part of China as endorsed(zantong in Pin Yin) and supported(zhichi in Pin Yin by President Bush and Prime Minister Howard of Australia. The same view may be read in People's Daily in the Chinese edition dated November 29, 1981 in historical record for verification. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao. September 6, 2007

Discovery of inner heart by observation

It benefits me to spend time with the kind folks who are looking to get inspired with love. I am like a sponge, eager to learn and give generous credit to others for their contribution. It is myu preference to make others feel at ease whenever possible. I would do nice things for folks who are human. Such action is loaded with sweetness with ripple of excitement in life. Thanks in advance and have a good day with humane philosophy of living. Thursday, September 6, 2007

Life unfolds in wondrous way with blessings

How to make others feel good? That is my intent everyday! Good for a few laughs under cosmic weather,being hot or otherwise. How to give an answer for fun? The clue is to nod energetically or gaze knowingly with my kind of humor. I expect to be understood but not to be possessed. Luckily, I assert my independence. I never disregard what I know in my heart. I hold everyone in high esteem,thinking is not the same as loving. I love folks with my heart as fellow human beings on earth. All in all, It is a harmonious,congruous and conformable way in teaching and learning languages and economics with my erudite thoughts. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on Wednesday, September 5, 2007 at 4.35 p.m.

Carlyle Group plans a new investment in China

Washington Post, September 4, 2007 on page D1,D4: A private equity firm plans to invest $20 million in privately owned World Education Group, which runs a chain of 65 schools teaching foreign languages such as English and Japanese. Such focus on education would be making better life for peoples to understand culture,a desideratum for human beings. It is to be noted that www.Dictyon.net,a gateway of global languages in Greenbelt, Maryland, USA, an institution offering the learning of world languages. Francis Shieh. September 5, 2007

Trying to make my family and friend proud with my ways

Mark Twain:"Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society." I wish to add:" For physical exam in MD office and in a hospital such exposure would have influence on society re the cost in USA! With family dynamics as they are currently, the way to stay sane is to laugh for longevity and to find the fun in the situation. Genuine fun does not put down anybody! I would jump for joy with enthusiasm of living. Mercy blesses both the giver and the taker with equal oppotunity. The spirit of adventure promises security with a paradox(more haste,less speed) in the mind of a philosopher. When out to discover new land,I discover things as a youngster i.e. the gentleman has a child-like heart in the Chinese proverb in Pin Yin:Junzibuwangben+zhizizhixin.

APEC in Australia,the land of the Kangaroo

President Bush and President Hu of China will meet in APEC. The rapid expansion of China's importance to the Australian economy would be of interest to USA. Australia-China ties are diversifying into investment, exchange of students, and tourism et al. China has the potential to become Australia's No. 1 partner in all of those areas. That should be good reference for US businesses. Whereas most Chinese migrants to Australia previously came from Hong Kong when I was in Hong Kong as a Fulbright Senior Scholar,1989-1990 but the number from mainland China has been rising sharply and is now estimated to be around 800,000 in total. In this context, Australian expectations in regard to China are running higher than ever before, and the idea that the 21st century will be "the century of China" has taken hold in Australian public debate. The goods and services involved in trade with China and developing Asia were complementary to domestic production, the resulting efficiency gains would benefit skilled workers. The more flexible the labor and product markets, the more quickly such gains occur. Law of Comparative Advantage can be implemented here and "Keys for Economic Understanding" is hereby dedicated for training of skilled labor in USA and in China as well. Francis Shieh on Labor Day,September 3, 2007

The Ultimate is the Ultimate is the Ultimate!

Alfred Marshall:"The economist, like everyone else, must concern himself with the ultimate aims of man." My comment: Economic activities and teaching instill(implant) attitudes and beliefs that appear to be resisting or adapting a changing world appropos of globalization. A certain inherent optimism or pessimism remains with the scenario of the person who is involved with his economic activities.
In the USA, the inequality in income is getting worse due to high cost of living and insecurity of job prospects. The top income brackets is increasing egregiously as known to students of economics and researchers at Brookings Institution.
The theme may be extravagant with success to be reflected by the economic data but not for social achievement per se. For example,an executive(CEO) can effectively set his own pay thereby humane compassion would go astray in the name of profit maximization. Keeping up with the Jones is the order of the day. i.e. what others do or have,one should do or have. Americans deem an auto as a necessity but not for people in China,only a small number Chinese who have become rich after economic reforms. "Ronghuafugui" may be the aim for traditional Chinese culture of success but others may opt in for a simple lifestyle. Such gaps may be bridged when folks are bedridden toward eternity. It is a matter of sooner or later when we are called by our Creator as centenarians or near-centenarians. That is the ultimate of the Ultimatum in life. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on Labor Day,September 3, 2007

Motto for Seniors: Faculty-student relationship

The following Pin Yin system is rededicated to seniors or seniors-to-be who wish to learn and discover the philosophy of the Chinese language.

Lao you suo le.(Joy)
Lao you suo xue.(Learning)
Lao you suo wei.(Doing)
Yang jing xu rui.(Save the Energy)
Jiao xue xiang zhang.(Mutual Benefit)

Teaching is learning twice. Learning is happiness for intellectual pursuit i.e. the numerator above the line of a fraction. The Formula for Happiness may be detected as follows:

Happiness is Material consumption + Intellectual Pursuit + Spiritual Satisfaction + Good health as elements for the numerator over the Desire as Denominator below the line of a fraction.

Such simple formula was given for my lecture in Shanghai, 1981 but I trust that it is still applicable in 2007 and beyond...

Concur or demur? The choice is yours! Modifications are invited with my appreciation. Thanks and have a great day,everyday to be cheerful and joyful in living with meaningful endeavor to make contribution to humankind. September 3, 2007.


Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on Labor Day,Monday, September 3, 2007

I would like to invest my resources with deserving respect and dignity

It is my earnest intent that my past scholarly track with my human resource for six decades of learning in the United States (apropos of my professional development and dealing with family members) have been of no avail!? I am not impressed when I have encountered a situation that I would never have expected as the head of the family. However,I shall challenge such obstacle to surmount it. With the right attitude, I shall produce exhilarating results with love and faith plus spirituality as my lifestyle. The case is not about money but about the freedom that I chrish with my education in the USA for my hard-earned dollars from 1947 to 2007 to date. I do expect the Trust members would honor my status as the beneficiary to be able to make decisions to offer contributions to the schools of my choice and the Church I have been attending since 1940s in China. As a student of languages and economics,I would state categorically that a minor error in judgment would have huge consequences in understanding or misunderstanding and for family harmonious and tuneful relations according to one of the commandments re "Honor Father and Mother" on equal status in American and Chinese cultures with Christian foundation. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on Sunday,September 2, 2007.

Free Trade and Open Competition to honor Law of Comparative Advantage

Economists overwhelmingly agree that free international trade can improve the standard of living of the trading nations and that tariffs and import quotas reduce general welfare.(Cf. Preamble of Constitution of the United States)
Economists have a unique way of viewing the world(Macro) and mulling over about how to solve problems apropos of globalization. An economist is aware of the chains of deductive reasoning.('A priori') But I would add 'A posteriori' for reference re cause and effect relationship. Law of Comparative Advantage and Law of Supply and Demand should be noted. Tradeoffs should be identified in the context of constraints. Such reasoning would reveal the cost of one option in terms of the foregone benefits of another i.e. Opportunity Cost Principle. Economics has a bearing of efficiency i.e. getting the most out of limited resources. It takes a marginalist of incremental approach. An economist has a predilection to believe that welfare is increased by freedom of choice of consumers in USA or in other nations as well. Transformation of Economics into a lively discipline with the awareness of provocative and powerful political underpinning may be formed into a fabric of a society with applicable policy in the days to come in the USA or other nations too. That is my thoughts about Economics. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on September 2, 2007 at 6.38 a.m.

Hopeful and optimistic attitude makes wishes come true

Feeling happy is preventative medicine. It is more important than getting enough sleep or eating the vegetables. I value spontaneity. Paradoxically, I'll feel the most spontaneous and free once I have made a plan. The way I deal with people is gracious. I merely make suggestions for better living for fairness.Be ready emotionally, physically and mentally with spiritual underpinning.

Expanding my mind in intellect and spirit

Greetings to all readers. I am persistent to learn how to close my mind against discouraging influences. American and Chinese philosophers illuminate me with their mind power deserving my profound admiration. Henry David Thoreau:"Aim above morality. Be not simply good; be good for something" My comment: That something would be the lifelong study of English and Chinese languages plus economics! I shall find the lever and the whole thing will turn on its axis to give me full access in the meaning of life. It takes strength to let go and I can reconstruct with faith. I am willing to do it means that I am really living my life to the fullest. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated. Francis Shieh a.k.a. Xie Shihao on Saturday, September 1, 2007 at 6.07 a.m.