Noah TS Blog Post 12/1/23

 This session took place on 12/1/23 with Youngjune. 

In our most recent and final language tutoring session, Youngjune and I engaged in a thought-provoking conversation that touched upon recent events, political figures, and linguistic nuances. The passing of Henry Kissinger prompted reflections on his controversial legacy and the impact of key political figures in both America and South Korea. It was a good discussion that helped to familiarize him with American culture.

Our discussion extended to political vocabulary, exploring the term "diplomat" and dissecting its connotations. We delved into the suffixes "archy" and "ocracy," discussing how they shape words like "oligarchy" and "meritocracy." This exploration offered insights into the structures and systems prevalent in political and social spheres.

The concept of realpolitik emerged as a focal point, with discussions revolving around its meaning and application in political strategies. This led to an exploration of polarizing figures and the implications of polarization in contemporary politics.

To add a touch of colloquialism, we explored the expression "back in the day," reminiscing about times gone by and the evolution of political landscapes. This idiomatic phrase provided a bridge between historical reflections and contemporary political discourse.

In the realm of prefixes, we explored the distinctions between "inter" and "intra," shedding light on the differences between international dynamics and internal conflicts. The term "in-fighting" became a focal point, emphasizing internal discord within political entities.

Expanding our vocabulary, we discussed the term "mediocre" and its implications, prompting reflections on the standards of political leadership. Our conversation naturally flowed into an exploration of news sources, highlighting the diverse political spectrum in the United States. We considered the importance of accessing information from varied sources to foster a well-rounded understanding of current events. I showed him resources to check the different biases on news networks and to choose which ones best represent his interests.