I9 V44

Outlook

Tuesday, december 13 2011 Vol. XlIV, No. 9

The IndependenT sTudenT publIcaTIon sInce 1949

Is There a Place for Prayer on Campus?

Heather Jaber Staff Writer / Mohammad B. Azzam Photographer If you have studied in the ‘stacks’ section of Jafet Library, you may have witnessed students undergoing their daily Islamic prayer between the bookshelves. You may have also signed a petition passed around campus recently, regarding the implementation of a prayer room in AUB, or you may have passed on signing, disagreeing with the proposal. Both stances on the issue represent two sides of a complicated situation on campus.

Previously, two rooms in the upper floors of West Hall, affiliated with AUB clubs, were being used to pray in. Recently, however, these rooms have been converted to office spaces, and thus the petition regarding a prayer space has resurfaced.

Aya Hammoud put it simply, saying, “we are upset.” These feelings were shared by many of the other students voicing their opinions in Jafet.

Some felt it was a matter of principle, while others spoke of the associated inconveniences. “Between two courses we have to go far to pray - we won’t have enough time,” said Hammoud. “We are not bothering anyone; we are just praying.”

However, the issue seems to be more complex than that.

According to Talal Nizameddin, Dean of Student Affairs, the administration reverted the aforementioned rooms to offices when students who felt uncomfortable sharing what was largely becoming a room solely for prayer complained.

Continued on Page 7

Message from the USFC Vice President Mario Abou Zeid USFC Vice President On behalf of all SRC/USFC members, allow me to thank you all, student body and administration, for your support throughout the electoral process. Congratulations to my fellow elected representatives in their new duties!

For some, the importance of winning elections is for the perception of popularity. However, being a “student representative” means that we have been entrusted by our colleagues, the AUB student community, to address our needs and interests. This opportunity to represent our university is an honor and a duty, one which requires our www.aub.edu.lb/outlook

full commitment. With this in mind, the entire AUB student body deserves fair and equal representation regardless of their background, nationality, religion, sect, or political views.

This is the spirit of cooperation that we as AUB students all commit to. The SRC/USFC members act in the interest of the student body and of the university as a whole. Your student representative is the means through which your voice can be heard; use it! It is your right as a student, and our duty as your representative.

The list below/given illustrates some of the key

issues that we will address throughout the academic year.

Student Government Reforms • Recall of Elected USFC/SRC representatives • USFC/SRC New Member Training 1. Accrued Interest on USFC Funds 2. Additional USFC Portfolios Student Benefits • Tutoring Continued on Page 7

Bliss Street, West Hall 208 tel: 01 350 000 ext. 3193

readoutlook@gmail.com

Campus News

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

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The Human Is not the Virus Fadi Halabi LeMSIC-SCORA National Officer The Lebanese Medical Students’ International Committee – Standing Committee on Reproductive health including AIDS (LeMSIC-SCORA) is organizing its annual World AIDS Day Fundraising concert. This year, the Lebanese Rock band, MEEN, will be playing their sarcastic and quirky music at AUB-Assembly Hall on December 19th at 8.30 pm to benefit to HIV/AIDS fund at AUBMC and Hotel Dieu de France Hospital.

LeMSIC-SCORA is a group of medical students from AUB and Saint Joseph University who focus on spreading awareness on reproductive health issues particularly HIV. For the past 10 years, LeMSIC-SCORA has also focused on reducing discrimination against HIV patients and helping them receive an adequate access to healthcare.

This is done through the HIV/AIDS fund that provides free CD4 Count testing to the HIV patients in need. For the past 10 years, more than 120 patients have benefited from this fund.

In fact, the World AIDS Day Concert is only part of a nation-wide campaign that LeMSIC-SCO-

RA organized this year. In red t-shirts that read, “The Human Is not the Virus”, LeMSIC-SCORA members roamed the streets of Beirut to spread awareness on HIV. The campaign started on the weekend of November 25th in several branches of Roadster Diner and Deek Duke. In December 3rd, it moved to Gemmayze where awareness pamphlets and educational material were distributed to passers-by. That night, LeMSIC-SCORA members also gave out several quick peer-education sessions on protection from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Moreover, during the past two weeks, members were giving out Free Hugs, selling concert tickets and t-shirts, and educating about HIV on West Hall as well as in the Saint Joseph University-Faculty of Medicine.

And so, the World AIDS Day concert is the last stop in this campaign. Tickets will still be sold at AUB-West Hall every day from 12 pm until 4 pm.

Come, join us and give HIV a new definition: The Human Is not the Virus.

Editorial: “I considered atheism but there weren’t enough holidays.” Author Unknown Lojine Kamel Editor-in-Chief “You don’t celebrate Christmas?!” I don’t, I know. It makes me sad too. But I’m betting not everyone celebrates Eid either. Or Hanukah. Or Diwali. Right?

The point of holidays should be to spread joy and love, to spend time with family, and to finally appreciate the relaxation time we’ve all been craving since our last vacation. The point of religious holidays however should be, at least partly, to commemorate religion. With Ashura just ending and Christmas right around the corner, Lebanon’s two main religious groups are having the quite the busy December.

It’s fine if you celebrate something for fun and its fine if you celebrate it for a reason. My family and I absolutely adore the Christmas spirit, though we don’t actually observe the holiday.

When I was younger we often exchanged gifts with our Christian and Jewish neighbors, who introduced us to the beliefs behind Christmas and Hanukah. I loved learning about them, just as much as I loved being able to bake Christmas

cookies and color paper stocking.

I believe that everyone has the right to choose whether or not to celebrate a religious holiday by enjoying its commercial appeal or its deeper religious meaning. Each person must make the concrete decision to celebrate a religious holiday, but should question their reasons for doing so. Blindly following the commercial masses because of material goods demeans the original meaning of the holiday, which should be respected in its entirety. But enjoying the simplistic nature of Christmas spirit, while acknowledging its religious connotation, is an innocent pursuit.

Religion often defines us, and that definition usually comes with displays of faith such as ritual celebrations. But tolerance and appreciation bind us, and keep our societies strengthened. Remember to respect the sacred history behind what you are celebrating, keeping in mind that what may be meaningless to you may be meaningful to others.

Campus News

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

The Special Tribunal for Lebanon: International Justice or International Intervention?

Issam Kayssi & Weam Alawar Staff Writer The question of whether the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, responsible for investigating the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafic Al-Hariri in February 2005, serves justice or international intervention in Lebanese affairs was answered by the Issam Fares Institute-hosted panel on November 29.

ship of trial in absentia and the lack of prosecutional power to the individuals arrested based on UNIIIC’s indictment. Dr. Jurdi concluded by hoping that the STL would indeed be the starting model for fair trials and procedural guarantees, ending impunity and launching Lebanon’s truth seeking.

Dr. Nidal Jurdi, lecturer in International Law and Organizations at the Department of Political Studies at AUB, discussed the International Criminal Law in general and then in the context of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), the challenges that have been facing the STL, and its relationship with UNIIIC. Dr. Omar Nashabi, columnist and editor at Al-Akhbar and lecturer at the Lebanese American University (LAU), anchored the critique of the STL and provided solutions to the weaknesses that he pinpointed.

The focus of Dr. Omar Nashabi referred to his wish that panels, like those hosted by the Issam Fares Institute, were held back in 2007 especially for issues of international justice as a form of international intervention. He tackled the issue of selective justice in reference to Lebanese political figures assassinated in the past four decades and how their crimes were still largely unresolved and accompanied with international silence. According to Nashabi, Hariri’s assassination is not less deserving, but refraining from resolving other crimes is “not a coincidence.”

On that issue, the fact that the primary mandate of the STL refers to a single attack and how the STL does not take jurisdiction on other issues further reinforces the idea that the STL is selective and politicized. The amnesty of various war lords backing the STL only serves to strengthen this idea.

Jurdi started by addressing the culture of “impunity” in Lebanon, as he labeled it, and its manifestation in many incidents such as the civil war and the post-1990 amnesty laws. Accountability and truth seeking should normally happen in any post-war society in order to “know what happened and hold the perpetrator or series of perpetrators accountable and then reconcile with the society itself and turn the page to move on.” Lebanon never experienced that and strong external interventions from the international community remained.

According to Jurdi, the Lebanese judiciary system present at the time of the assassination (and existing since 1998) is in a debatable state of inability to prosecute and unwillingness to seriously handle such crimes. He referred to Peter Fitzgerald’s declaration in reference to the Lebanese judiciary system: it is in a “state of negligence” at best. Jurdi then discussed the alternatives that should be set up and the suitable political medium the present justice system needs for political stability and consensus.

Jurdi moved to discuss the qualitative versus the quantitative gravity of the 22 deaths in the Hariri assassination with respect to the many years of civil war. He followed up by discussing the novelties and contributions of the STL to the international and Lebanese justice system and the challenges facing the STL. He also referred to the complexities that exist between the STL and the UNIIIC, such as the relation-

In response to selective justice, Dr. Nashabi suggested enlarging the STL mandate and justice plan to transfer jurisdiction of mandate to Lebanese court along with the immediate reform of the judicial system with the help of a truth and reconciliation commission and honest commitment from all parties. Nashabi concluded that though the STL will always face issues of acceptance from various groups, justice is still desired by all. Therefore, a Special Higher Commission to monitor the STL and report to the Lebanese Government should be assigned.

He also pointed towards unlimited access to Lebanese records for use in such jurisdictions, an extremely odd fact.

The bottom line is that, like any other debatable issue, it should be evaluated in a costbenefit manner. On one hand, average Lebanese citizens will be paying to fund the STL but withstanding the short-term consequences for the greater good. On the other hand, the arguments Nashabi gave, particularly about ‘selective justice,’ poses a lot of questions. Should justice be mediated depending on the case being addressed?

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Campus News

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

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Cross-Crescent Dialogue is Fruitful Edrees Elrachidi Contributing Writer Following the buzz, hype, and hostility of elections, the Insight Club, in collaboration with the Interfaith Dialogue Club, soothed things down and hosted a student lecture on Wednesday, December 7, entitled “God, Thought, and Life,” where the implications of God in both Christianity and Islam were presented. Following these lectures was a series of group discussions, where attendees met and shared their beliefs.

The lecture, scheduled to take place at 5 PM in West Hall’s Auditorium C, began with minimal delay. Carmen Ibrahim, Vice President of the Interfaith Dialogue Club and the event’s main host, introduced the speakers. Marvin Lahoud, a fourth year student majoring in Civil Engineering, spoke about Christianity’s implications of God, while Ali Harfouch, a Political Studies and Public Administration major, discussed Islam’s concept of Tawhid and its meanings. It is important to note that the dialogue wasn’t necessarily a stage for comparing or contrasting, in parallel, the two religions per say, but rather a platform for presenting key ideas of each religion independently.

Lahoud began his speech by explaining the notion of God, pointing out that “God is the Creator; the creator of everything that exists, seen and unseen, which is good.” He stressed the importance

of “not [attributing] any sort of evil, or anything less than perfect to God” adding that “everything that exists, seen or unseen, is evil or even imperfect, is a result of disobedience to God.” He later expressed the extent of God’s forgiveness, despite man’s continued defiance of God: “Despite our multitude of sins against Him and each other…He will not punish us at all nor even remember any of our trespasses because all His wrath and [punishments] were poured down on the only righteous, God-glorifying man, Jesus Christ.” This forgiveness is manifested through “Jesus [coming] and [giving] life…abundantly.”

Harfouch’s discourse held a more macrocosmic approach. He stated that the concept of Tawhid, “the Oneness of God,” lies at the core of Islam. It is Tawhid that brings about the implications of God, thought, and life as we know it. According to Harfouche, Tawhid has historically been understood under three lenses: the first being the “Oneness of God in his Lordship, indicating that Muslims ought to acknowledge that God is the “One” creator, sustainer, etc.”(in accordance with many qualities Lahoud mentioned), the second being the “Oneness of God in his right to be worshipped [without the aid of intermediaries],” and finally the “Oneness of God in his names and attributes,

indicating that there is a clear difference between the created and the Creator. God is “hence one being, one entity, and one essence.”

After both Lahoud and Harfouche concluded their speeches, the audience split into diverse groups in order to discuss and share their beliefs.

Refreshments were served to further enhance the mingling atmosphere that characterized the room.

The event received positive feedback from both sides. “It was insightful and informative, yet short and not too dynamic,” indicated Emile Mocachen, a second year electrical and computer engineering student “I got to make new acquaintances from different cultures, which was very refreshing,” he added. Ahmad Sukkar, a Finance senior, suggested that “it is these kinds of lectures and discussions students should be a part of. It was a friendly environment, which is something great considering it was a topic that’s often discussed on unfriendly terms.”

Insight Club discusses Ashura Sarah Khalil Contributing Writer Ashura is not a Shia event, or such was the message when the Insight club hosted an event titled “Ashura: Lessons and morals” where Sheikh Hussam El-Ghali went over Ashura, from a Sunni perspective.

the Sheik explained how the Shia refuse many “rituals” that have come to be associated with Ashura, for some Shia, as well as the large amount of misinformation and exaggerations surrounding the retelling of Ashura. These, the Sheikh explained, stemmed out of good intentions: the people’s love for Al-Hussein. Nevertheless, these do more good than Harm to Al-Hussein and his message and the Sheikh complimented the attempts today’s Shiites are undertaking to annihilate such inaccuracies.

itself. In response, the Sheikh explained that all differences between Sunnis and Shia were minor; differences exited within the Sunni school as well as within the Shia one over such minor issues. Nevertheless, the Sheikh explained that the matter of “Imamate is the only real point of disagreement.” However, this is no reason for conflict and this is an issue that can be discussed. Even if no agreement is reached, our differences should not lead to struggle; diversity should be a source of riches.

All in all, the Sheik’s message was that of unity.

Ashura is a “unifying incident”, it is an event that is to be commemorated by all Muslims, Hussein is a figure for all Muslims, all humans. Sheik ElGhali refused turning it into an event of quarrel between Muslim brothers and stressed the imThere are mistakes surrounding Ashura, by portance of Islamic Unity. both Sunnis and Shias. On the Sunni side, some attempt to portray Yazid as a good, righteous After his presentation, and a small break, quesman that had his own view of things. Using tions and answers followed. The questions asked, Sunni books, the Sheikh demonstrated that this through paper, were not limited to Ashura. Inis not so; Sunnis refuse what Yazid did and hold deed, it appeared as if the audience was more Al-Hussein, grandson of the Prophet Muham- concerned with the differences between the mad, in the highest regard. Using Shia books, Sunnis and the Shia than they were with Ashura

The Sheikh also explained the main attempts the major Sunni and Shia scholars were taking towards unity. Indeed, he stressed how we should all strive towards unity and how ignorance is the major cause for the ugly practices and mistakes we see taking place today.

Misconceptions about Ashura, the Shia and their beliefs were debunked by the Sheikh.

Misconceptions about the Sunnis, their views of Yazid and of the prophet’s family were also debunked. A great effort, the event succeeded in informing and thus was more unifying than anything.

Yazid, the supposed “caliph” that ordered the murder of Al-Hussein, is no Sunni. The murder of Al-Hussein was a hideous crime committed unjustly and should be learned from. The very coming into power of Yazid was a “conspiracy; an innovation” by Yazid’s father. Al-Hussein did what he did in a quest to refuse this innovation, save Islam and do what is right. These and many others were things that the Sheikh elaborated on, speaking to an audience of both Shias and Sunnis.

Arts and Culture

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

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“Chocolate will become a Luxury” warn Agriculturalists Loulwa Kalache Staff Writer Cocoa and chocolate will be considered luxurious foods in the upcoming 10 years. At least that’s what the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) in Columbia warns. The research center states that a hotter weather could decrease West Africa’s cocoa production, which currently provides around two thirds of the global cocoa stock.

Cocoa is a valuable global crop for major industries. Annual world consumption of cocoa beans averages approximately 600,000 tons per year. But, West African farmers have been complaining of unpredictable rains, and unusual higher temperatures that is fattening up cocoa beans and causing them to dry. Many cocoa pods are also found to be rotten with black pod disease.

Indeed, yield has already declined and will continue in this downward trend. Eventually, chocolate prices might surge severely. In Ghana and Ivory Coast, scientists are trying to develop new disease resistant varieties and drought-resistant cocoa trees, and urging farmers to replant trees in cooler places or zones less prone to flooding.

As for fighting climate changes, delegates from nearly 200 countries met in South Africa on November 28, for climate talks. According to

the Associate Press news (December 3), the top U.N. climate official said that she is optimistic that industrial countries will agree on cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

But till solutions become available, and till regulations are actually implemented on industries, let us cherish some special facts about chocolate before it is too late: -The word ‘Chocolate’ comes from the Aztec word, cacahuatl, which means bitter water.

The finding of chocolate residue in an ancient Maya pots suggests that Mayans were drinking chocolate 2,600 years ago, and proving that chocolate was first drunk rather than eaten.

-Chocolate is a great source of iron, one ounce of cocoa contains 10 percent of the daily recommendation of this mineral.

-Chocolate may interact with a number of neurotransmitter systems such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins, thus affecting one’s appetite and mood. It alleviates depression, high blood pressure, and pre-menstrual syndromes.

-The melt in the mouth sensation that differentiates one chocolate brand to another is due to the difference in processing, particularly the tempering step.

- Two debunked myths are: chocolate can cause acne and headaches.

-The Aztecs associated cocoa with Xochiquetzal, the goddess of fertility, believing that the beans originated in paradise and anyone who ate them was blessed with wisdom and energy.

-Chocolate can be deadly for dogs due to an ingredient called “Theobromine” which can be toxic to their central nervous system and cardiac muscles.

-The scientific term for the Cocoa Tree is ‘Theobroma Cacao’, which is a Greek word meaning, “Food for the Gods.”

-The discovery of microwaves was due to chocolate. As scientists were developing the magnetron for better radar detectors, a magnetron melted a chocolate bar in a scientist’s pocket.

Eventually, he applied the magnetron’s ability in cooking food.

-You need to eat a dozen chocolate pieces to get the same amount of caffeine as that in a coffee cup.

Things You Might Not Know About Alcohol Baraa El-Sabbagh Vice President of the Nutrition Society How often do you hear your friends complaining about the “beer belly” they’re getting because they’re drinking too much? Actually, the more alcohol we replace with food, the more weight we lose. A 5-10% addition of alcohol into your regular energy intake will cause a small weight gain. Oddly enough, an addition of 25% of alcohol to your regular energy intake will actually cause weight loss, but this will cause many other risk factors relating to your health, even potential death.

If you drink alcohol on an empty stomach it reaches the brain in 1-2 minutes. However, if you eat before drinking, the time required for the alcohol to reach the rest of your body is actually delayed. Eating high fat and high protein foods, like cheese, is known to delay the release of alcohol into your circulation. But make sure to try and stay away from those delicious nuts they serve with drinks. They actually make you thirstier and cause you to drink more; drinking too much will get you drunk even if your stomach isn’t empty. Also, be careful with diet beer. It may contain

less sugar, but it actually has more alcohol.

ing less prone to being clogged), which reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, too much Something a lot of people do is drink coffee to alcohol will actually have a reverse effect and inreverse the effects of excess alcohol. However, both crease your blood pressure. are diuretics and will actually cause receptors in your brain to stop sending signals to drink water An interesting thing to know is that a mortality and this leads to dehydration. What actually helps graph in relation to alcohol consumption shows that is the intake of fruits. The sugar in fruits will speed those who drink no alcohol have a higher mortality up the process of clearing your body of alcohol. rate than those who drink 6-18 grams of alcohol a day. This is about 1 or 2 glasses of wine. Drinking Women have a higher fat distribution, smaller this amount of alcohol helps widen your arteries and livers, and a smaller body size than men. For this helps increase your carbohydrate storage, which in reason alcohol, which doesn’t dissolve in fat, gets turn lead to lower mortality rates. concentrated in more areas. This causes the alcohol to reach the brain faster. The same applies for men During a night out, try drinking half a glass of alwith higher fat than muscle content. cohol every hour (not more) in order to avoid accumulating a high amount of alcohol in the blood.

Ever feel warmer when you drink a glass of wine? Drinking small amounts of alcohol with time also It’s because small amounts of alcohol cause more helps increase your alcohol tolerance. Always reblood to flow through your blood vessels. More member, while a small amount of alcohol is good for blood flowing through your arteries actually helps you, excessive drinking has dangerous health effects. to widen them (relate this to your arteries becom-

Viewpoint

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

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Book Review: The Hunger Games Rida Daher Staff Writer Described as the highest profile series of youngadult novels after J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, the Hunger Games Trilogy is positioned to claim the crown of fandom at least for the next few years.

First published in 2009, Suzanne Collins’s trilogy resolves about a post apocalyptic world where the United States is now called Panem; a dystopian society where North America is divided into 12 districts. Katniss Everdeen, a 16 years old citizen is trying to survive this gory world; where food is scarce and white is rarely seen. Living with her mother and sister, Katniss poaches from the government and trades in the black market to take care of her family.

The essence of the book lies in the idea that each year the capitol forces each of the twelve districts to offer two children as tribute and as punishment for holding a rebellion against the Government a century before. The 24 tributes are put in an arena where they fight till death on live television. The Books are also similar to Meyer’s twilight series in

terms of the love triangle. But now it centers on katniss, Peeta and Gale instead of Bella, Edward and Jacob.

One must keep in mind that the books are quite violent given that 23 players are set to die and only one survivor makes it out of the arena. The narrative is quite compelling and the setting of the books is fairly recognizable while remaining exotic.

Notable writer Stephen King commented on the trilogy saying “constant suspense…I couldn’t stop reading.”

Furthermore it is worth mentioning that the first book is now being made into a motion picture event directed by Gary Ross (Seabiscuit) and starring Jennifer Lawrence (winter’s Bone, X-men first class), Josh Hutcherson (the kids are alright) and Liam Hemsworth (the last song).

While still in post-production, the movie will be released across cinemas next March. The trailer has already made its way to the web and it looks very promising. Make sure to check it online

or simply buy the books if you can’t wait till its release. And,as Suzanne Collins says, “May the odds be in your favor.”

verre de vin rouge, sa baguette, son fromage et son béret apparait très rapidement. Habitué à ces clichés, cela nous fait sourire, mais quand la discussion devient plus sérieuse, on aperçoit se dessiner, derrière cette image de bon vivant, l’image de marque et la force que représente le « made in France ».

Le prêt-à-porter, la haute couture, la joaillerie et la nourriture sont autant de domaines pour lesquels la qualité du « made in France » est porteuse. En effet, il suffit de se balader dans le quartier chic des « Beirut suqs » pour voir se côtoyer Chanel, Yves Saint-Laurent, Hermès et Chopard. Ces boutiques de luxe donnent presque un air de place Vendôme au cœur du Proche-Orient. Par ailleurs, des enseignes de prêt-à-porter telles que Kookai vante le « made in Paris » sur les devantures de leur magasin en

plein cœur de Hong-Kong par exemple.

Made in France Grégoire Dugueyt Staff Writer Avoir l’opportunité de partir à l’étranger pendant un an comporte de nombreux avantages bien connus tels que l’apprentissage d’une nouvelle langue, la découverte d’une autre culture et la rencontre de personnalités diverses qui rendent ce séjour enrichissant à tout point de vue.

Cependant, il en existe bien d’autres moins connus mais tout aussi importants. L’un d’entre eux est la découverte de l’image que véhicule son pays d’origine à l’étranger. Comment la France est-elle perçue à Beyrouth? Peut-on généraliser la vision libanaise de la France à d’autres pays?

Cet article n’a pas vocation de répondre précisément à toutes ces questions mais plutôt de donner des pistes de réflexion.

Lorsque les discussions commencent avec des étudiants étrangers, l’image du Français traditionnel avec sa marinière, ses bateaux, son

Quant à la nourriture française, elle n’est pas en reste et sort aussi grande gagnante des discussions comparant les différentes spécialités culinaires européennes. Que c’est amusant d’entendre un italien amateur de cuisine disserter avec passion sur notre salade de chèvrechaud ou sur notre pot au feu.

Alors à l’heure où nos entreprises françaises délocalisent, à l’heure où la fierté d’être français est mal vue, à l’heure où la conjoncture économique est au plus mal, cela fait un bien fou d’entendre à Beyrouth ou à Hong-Kong en passant par Mexico que le « made in France » est toujours porteur pour un grand nombre d’étrangers.

Viewpoint

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

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Is there a place for prayer on campus? Continued Heather Jaber Staff Writer “We respect that duty, but to make it into an official location - that’s not going to work,” mentioned the Dean. “It’s a place for learning, for meeting other people, for tolerance - not for closing up rooms and saying ‘this is my space.’”

“It’s a room, it’s not a mosque,” says Hiba Kobeissi, Mechanical Engineering major.

Ali Harfouch, Political Science and Public Administration Junior, touched on what some students refer to as a contradiction in AUB’s secular stance. “Secularism claims to be tolerant and neutral towards all religions. So, one is tempted to ask how neutral is AUB, in that it won’t grant the large Muslim community a prayer room, yet there is a

church on campus.”

Nizameddin explained that what was once a chapel is now used only as an assembly hall. “The Board of Trustees decided to make it into a secular assembly hall where all religions can converge, and all people, so that the university isn’t associated with one religion or one sect. So the spirit of the university, if you look at the original mission statement, is that you have all people - believers and non-believers - together as equal citizens without promoting the agenda of one religion or having them compete with each other on campus.”

Nizameddin also touched on the political and

cultural implications that must be considered. “[In Lebanon,] because religion and politics are so intertwined, it’s a risky thing.”

“We’ve asked religious scholars in Islam; if you have a class…if you have something, you can delay your prayer, if it really is that pressing. There is always time [to pray]. Many people go and pray in the mosque [down the street] and they can go and perform their duty to God and it’s not a problem.”

Noting the endless complications that could arise from such a petition, Nizameddin concluded by remarking “Just keep it secular.”

Message from the USFC Vice President

Continued

Mario Abou Zeid USFC Vice President AUB Community.

We need to organize efficiently in order to mobilize effectively; for now is the time to work hard, stay true to ourselves, our commitments, our platform and what we need to accomplish.

By being sincere, honest and dedicated to student office, we will not only affect change at

URL: http://www.flickr.com/photos/51788915@ N06/5537184218/in/set-72157624853784962 Student Benefits • Graduate Assistant Stipends • Thesis Advising International Students Academic • Online Application • Specialized Career Advising • Arabic “Gutenberg” Project

Follow-up Issues • Cafeteria • Interactive USFC Website Human Resources *For details on platform items, please send an email to msa89@aub.edu.lb Our faculties act like independent cities. It is true that each have their own social structures, guidelines, needs, and interests; however, they do share similar concerns. While these faculties should be autonomous, the SRC/USFC is a place where common issues can be addressed.

In order to accomplish our goals, we need to have an active, committed and professional SRC/USFC this year that will lead us as one team, which will re-build trust and confidence between us in order to better serve the entire

AUB, but we will help encourage future opportunities and improvements in our society and demonstrate AUB students’ potential as future leaders.

With success comes great responsibility, a responsibility that will take us on a journey with no boundaries and no frontiers.

Outloud

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Page 8

What do you want for Christmas?

Mohammad Yaghi Staff Writer / Mohammad B. Azzam Photographer

“Mac-Book Pro because I’m going into architecture, so I might need it.”

– Maria Bou Rizk

“Some really nice boots because I need them.”

– Tanya Dib

“Star Wars: Old Republic because I love Star Wars” – Raja Ricahi

“A Pokémon in real life. Like Charizard.”

– Assaad Khoury

“A beer-hat, so I can drink my beer.”

– Mamoun Mahayni

“A Ferrari because I want to be a chickmagnet.”

– Adam Sleyman

“I want to graduate.”

– Rami Salam

“Free tuition because financial aid isn’t helping us.”

– Melhem Chemait

“A car like a Mercedes because I need a car.”

– Mohammad Slim

“I really want Russell Crowe and for the poor to not be hungry. Also for people to have the Christmas spirit and less freaky Santas.”

– Maria Achkar

Campus News

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

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Should We Hand Over Management to Moodle?

Dima Nasser Staff Writer / Mohammad B. Azzam Photographer Calina Ammache, 19, an education junior at AUB, described the way Moodle has changed her studying habits by saying, “It makes information easily accessible and facilitates communication with the professor.”

Yara Suleiman, 18, an education major, said that Moodle adds extra information and makes notes available online so that students don’t have to worry about them.

Maria Antoun, 20, an English literature senior, said, “Moodle tends to make things easier and clearer for the student.”

Moodle, a popular technological trend at AUB, offers students and professors a medium of communication and a platform for new learning and teaching methods, said Wissam Nahas, eLearning manager at AUB. When asked about how Moodle has affected his teaching style, Professor David Wrisley, the chair of the English department at AUB said, “Moodle is fantastic for the knots and bolts of handling teaching.”

Wrisley explained that since Moodle offers several options for interactivity; it serves specific functions that benefit his teaching method with different types of courses. “How it changes your teaching depends a lot on how you use its functionality,” said Wrisley.

Although 75 to 80 percent of AUB’s faculty members have become accustomed to Moodle and use it to conduct their courses, according to Nahas, there are some professors who have an aversion to the program.

Nabil Dajani, professor and chair of the sociology, anthropology and media studies department, said that Moodle has complicated his teaching because even when he posts the course material online students don’t make use of it.

Dajani pointed out that our culture is an oral one; people would much rather face-to-face communication than indirect online interaction.

Moodle is a learning management system that AUB adopted in 2006, explained Nahas. Its software license is free of charge and allows administrators to modify its features and layout in accordance with professors’ needs and requests.

Nahas added that Moodle is a valuable education asset because it includes features such as chat tools, discussion forms, online quizzes, databases, etc.

According to an informal survey conducted between November 14 and 21, 2011, 95 percent of the randomly interviewed AUB students said that using Moodle for their courses does in fact help them with their learning process.

When asked whether or not they prefer using Moodle as a learning system integrated into their

courses, 85 percent answered yes.

Ammache, however, said, “It depends on how the teacher uses Moodle.”

Supporters of Moodle have described it as userfriendly and easy to handle.

Workshops are held during the first two weeks of every semester to instruct faculty members on how to use Moodle’s features and activities, said Nahas.

It is a relatively straightforward system once the user becomes familiar with it, said Wrisley, not to mention that it is environmentally-friendly.

Dajani, however, said that Moodle is a complicated system and he much prefers contacting his students by e-mail, considering himself an oldfashioned faculty member.

AUB is planning to implement Moodle 2, a faster version, during the summer, said Nahas. It is integrated with social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, has improved features and is expected to be running by next fall.

Whether or not students are tempted to skip class more often because the course material is available online was addressed in the informal poll.

According to the results, 30 percent of the interviewees answered yes.

The reason for students skipping class is not linked to Moodle, according to Wrisley. It’s more related to the professor’s teaching style. If students feel there is nothing to gain from the interaction with professors, it thus makes sense for them not to attend class – regardless of whether

or not the information is available on Moodle, said Wrisley.

Results of the informal survey indicate that 75 percent of the student sample feels that Moodle does not make them rely more on their professors.

When asked about what AUB can do to make learning more efficient for students, Adnan Abu Khadra, a business senior, said, “Professors would do well to explain material instead of reading slides.”

Yazan Halwani, 18, CCE sophomore, said that professors should have material, such as corrected exercises, uploaded on Moodle.

Dajani said that aside from face-to-face communication, supplying students with the audiovisual material in class is better than using Moodle and spending time and money developing it. “[Moodle] is a good way of communicating with students,” said Wrisley. “It’s a little hard imagining not having it.”

This article was written for the course SOAN 205 titled “Basic News Reporting.”

Arts and Culture

Tuesday , December 13,13, 2011 Tuesday , December 2011

Page 10

Interview with Previous AUB student, Jamal Al ‘Awar Deedee El-Jilani Contributing Writer & Cartoonist / Mohammad B. Azzam Photographer AUB has produced many well-known figures that shape up the face of Lebanon, including politicians, artists, billionaires and inventors, and a Hollywood actor, who recently acted in the latest Arabian movie Black Gold that stars big names like Antonio Banderas and Mark Strong. Working on other projects at the moment, Outlook got the chance to catch up with Jamal Al’Awar and ask a few questions.

How did you get to play a role in the movie?

Casted. A friend told me about an online casting in Masrah Beirut. There were about 200 Lebanese actors auditioning. This happened last February. In August I got a call from the director to go to Syria. There I was among the 15 final actors, then there was only another persona and me, and eventually, the director picked me.

Where was the movie filmed?

In Qatar and Tunisia.

How long did it take to make the movie?

Well, there are the pre-production, production and post-production phases. The pre-production was the casting part, the production, or shooting of the movie, was from October 2010 to March 2011, and the post production took place until the movie came out.

What was your favorite part of acting in Black Gold?

I have two favorite parts. One was when we were doing a decoy against the other people, it was the first time I got to shoot a Thompson.

The second part was when I had to bring down a plane. I was the only one alive in a desert of corpses.

What was your favorite part of Black Gold as a viewer?

Running towards the water, which was the last scene filmed. I loved the cinematography, it was an epic way of portraying how they did it. After watching the movie, I had closure. The scenes of Sultan Ammar were good, and Mark Strong is also a brilliant actor.

What was it like to work with Antonio Banderas?

First of all, he’s a human, he doesn’t fly, he doesn’t shoot laser beams from his eyes. Second, as a person, he’s really cool, spontaneous, giving. He does a lot of yoga and he’s very generous, he takes us out and insists on paying, that kind of stuff. He is an interesting character, very smart too. He’s a Real Madrid fan, and I used to make fun of him about it, I’m a Man. United fan. He’s 52 years old but says he feels like he’s in his thirties.

Have you always wanted to act?

Yes, since I was ten. But I used to only act in plays, this was the first time I was in a movie.

It was also the first time I got paid to act, its always been just a hobby, I would have paid to do it. Its something that pays the rent, and pays the heart.

Would you come back to AUB to finish your degree in Agribusiness?

Last year I made a choice, either to follow my dreams or to continue Agribusiness. So it was either a safe comfort 9-5 work day future, or to choose a more dangerous future, with freedom, to follow my dreams. I’m not coming back to AUB, I’m going to London for an acting school there. I still didn’t get in.

I know that you have acted in AUB before, which was your favorite play?

I have two favorites, one is Shi Feshel when I was 15 years old. I was the youngest actor and it was performed in AUB. My second one was last year’s Bomb Soir. I was part of the writing team and part of the directing team. At the end, the play was a part of all of us.

I remember you had a poem in Bomb Soir called Time.

Yes, very deep wasn’t it? (laughs), “Time, time, time! One o’clock, two o’clock, three o’clock!” (laughs again.)

What are you doing currently?

Currently I’m doing an internship in ILO (International Labor Organization). It’s a part of the UN. Just something else to add to my fat CV, (laughs.) I’m not just into acting, I’m smart too.

So what is your next step now?

There are many next steps. There are two plays, a webseries, and a Lebanese film. The most concrete one is a chess-like play in AUB. Another is called Phasoliya, it’s going to come out in the upcoming Spring semester. The webseries is still looking for funding, it’s called Shid Hallak. The film, I don’t know much about, it was just talk. These are my options. The perfect next step would be another major blockbuster Hollywood movie with big movie stars, but that’s not going to happen soon. There was a Film Festival, my friend and I wrote and shot it in 48 hours, that was the beginning of our webseries Shid Hallak.

So to you, is there no limit?

There are no guarantees in life. So you grab whatever opportunity you can and go with it.

There are many students in AUB who have dreams like yours but are limited to what they can do in AUB. What would you say to them?

Petitions and petitions, anything just to get the petition through. It’s sad that AUB that has been around since 1866 and doesn’t even have its own acting school. It’s not progressing in the arts, and it’s ironic because the buildings, the landscape, everything about AUB can inspire people to be in the arts. So why take that away from them?

Would you prefer in your acting career to work in Hollywood or the Arab world?

I don’t mind both. One has the high visibility and production; the other reflects yourself.

The next step I’m going to be picky about. But I wouldn’t mind acting here. I wouldn’t mind where because these actors have been acting before I was born, they have a lot to teach me and I have a lot to learn. I’m just getting the experience.

What did you miss most while you were away?

I missed Hamra Street itself. When you experience so much in one place it rubs off on you.

I didn’t miss the taboule and other such things, I didn’t miss the touristic sites like Jeita Grotto, or Skiing in Faraya. I missed the cultural sites.

Hamra means a lot to you?

Yes, it does. It’s a bunch of different things and aspects and lifestyles compressed into one street. You can find yourself in it because it has a little bit of everything. It’s perfect the way it is.

Arts and Culture

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Page 11

Students’ myths about food poisoning Loulwa Kalache Staff Writer A student who died from food poisoning, just after his graduation party, was TV’s most remarkable news story last summer. Perhaps his case was extreme, but students do tend to disregard the fact that they can get food poisoned.

Thus, it is essential to raise awareness about a few myths surrounding the subject: Myth 1, “A Student had dinner in a restaurant with his friends and spent the night back at home with nausea, followed by fever, vomiting and, diarrhea.”

He blames the AC in the restaurant or the windy weather. But, in medical terms there is no such thing as wind causing such symptoms. It is what he ate that caused this.

Myth 2: “It is just a 24-hour flu.” Actually, food poisoning often produces the same symptoms as the flu, but most students never associate these symptoms with something they ate.

Part of the problem is that they don’t realize that it takes from 24 hours to 72 hours for bacteria to make them sick.

Myth 3: “But only one of the students got poisoned and all of them ate at the same restaurant.” It is not necessary that all have to be ill especially if each one is ordering different plates. And even if someone ate from the same plate, the bacteria or a toxin doesn’t have to be all over the plate, which implies that it is possible for only one student to be poisoned.

Myth 4: “Students believe that they are still young and healthy, therefore they are invulnerable to food poisoning.” But they have to realize that immunity is only against pathogens, “bugs” that cause food borne illness . True, they might have immunity against pathogens, but not against toxins produced by the bacteria. Toxins don’t create immune system memory and therefore immunity. So, even a specific amount of a toxin ingested can cause breathing shortage, paralysis or even death within a few hours.

mit that they are occurring. Here is what one can do to avoid a food poisoning incident: 1-Take care when you eat. Choose well cooked meals rather than raw. You may order rare cooked steaks as they are not hazardous. However, make sure you order well done burgers.

2- Choose a clean restaurant: Certain restaurants have the HACCP and ISO 2200. Have your eyes on these certificates. They are indicators that the restaurants apply safety and quality control principles.

3- Don’t be afraid to check the kitchen. It is your right to know the quality of what you are eating. It is the same as choosing a product in the supermarket. You wouldn’t choose the cereal with an open package, or cheese with an expired date. What is the difference between this and ordering a salad that is not washed properly?

Bottom line, this article is not meant to cause public outrage, rather, there are certain risks that we have to be aware of and we have to ad-

“Don’t miss the chance to be a protagonist” RomeMUN 2012— Taste the complexity of international relations!

Maya Terro Special-to-Outlook RomeMUN is an international conference which attracts each year hundreds of international students from all over the world to enjoy a great conference on rural poverty-food security, sustainability, and visiting one of the most ancient and beautiful cities in the world. It’s not only a great chance to visit one of the beautiful capitals of Europe, but also a chance to meet active and interesting young people not only from Europe, but from all over the world. Model UN conferences really give a person experience, knowledge and skills. Applications for RomeMUN 2012 are now open! Fill in the application form on our website and experience the MUN world! Many scholarships and financial aid are available for International Students.

2012 Edition After the amazing experience of RomeMUN 2011 with hundreds of students coming from

28 different countries around the world, the Giovani nel Mondo association presents the third edition of Rome Model United Nations: the biggest international Model UN conference in Italy. The current world economic crisis has deepened social inequalities between rich and poor countries and urban and rural areas, giving rise to higher numbers of hungry and vulnerable people in the world. This is why our research committee gladly announces that the 2012 mission of RomeMUN will be: “NEW IMAGES FOR OUR FUTURE: DEVELOPMENT-RESOURCES-COOPERATION”. Issues about social development, sustainability, nuclear disarmament, sustainable energy, gender equality, greater market access, technology transfer to developing countries, strengthening disaster preparedness in the agricultural sector, water and irrigation management will be some of the topics under discussion during the five-day simulation of the General Assem-

bly and its sub-committees during next March.

Selection and Application Procedures RomeMUN third edition will take place on March 19-23 (dates to be confirmed) in Rome, Italy, hosted by UN buildings and university structures. Individual candidates have to fill in the application form online and send a CV and a motivation letter to info@romemun.org. Delegations have to fill in the application form online and send a CV for each member of the delegation and a single motivation letter to info@ romemun.org.

You can fill the application here: http://www.romemun.org/en/application. php#whereandhowhttp://www.romemun.org/en/ application.php#whereandhow

Campus News

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Page 12

Renowned Banker and AUB Alumnus Elias Aractangi signs his book at OSB Hadi Mehio Staff Writer About the Author Mr. Elias Aractangi holds a BBA from the AUB Business School and an MBA from Columbia University School of Business. He is an established name in the Global Retail Banking Sector, with a very solid experience ranging from leading banks in New York, as well as Booz& Co., as well as BLOM Bank in Lebanon.

The Book-Signing On Monday the 12th of December, the Olayan School of Business welcomed back its alumnus Mr. Elias Aractangi, a retail banking executive of the highest caliber in the Maamari Auditorium to sign his book “Boosting You” Dr. Imad Baalbaki, AUB’s Assistant Vice President for Development, introduced Mr. Aractangi as “one of those that make sure that he contributes-and gives back to his Alma Mater.” “All the proceeds out of the book sales go for the brightbut not as financially capable as they are mentally capable- to have the experience he himself had some years back,” Dr. Baalbaki added. In other words, the money generated by the book aims at funding a scholarship for a worthy OSB student in need.

Mr. Aractangi himself had his warm words of AUB, labeling it as the institution that “gave me my passport to a good career and further educa-

tion.” Mr. Aractangi briefly presented himself and his achievements in retail banking, then briefly presented why he wrote the book and why he thinks it is important.

Finally, Mr. Aractangi thanked everyone who contributed in making the book and the event a success, and proceeded to sign the book for the Maamari Audience of Executives.

About the Book According to Aractang, “Boosting You” is the answer to a question that he has asked himself: “Corporate environments tend to group many executives with a very similar mix of IQ, social skills, education, experience, hard work, and opportunity- yet some succeed wildly better than othersWhy?” Then, Mr. Aractangi convinces his peer executives that the answers sought are in the book.

“Working on yourself can help you take this tremendous power that is inside you and help you work towards what you want to achieve,” he says.

The book, which is sold online on Amazon and Barnes &Noble for 20$, shows managers how to: 1.

Use emotions to achieve-instead of having them hinder you.

2.

Work when things are not going your way.

3.

Rebound quickly from failure: “The longer you stay down, the more people will think of you as a person who has fallen and the

longer it would take you for getting up.”

4.

“The hurdles troubling you are internal” and “the more frustrated you are, the more you can be innovative.”

5.

“Success with Momentum brings More Success, but any relaxation or going easy on yourself makes you lazy.”

“Breaking the Barriers” Antoine Ayoub Contributing Writer “Breaking the Barrier,” was an all-day event for the disabled hosted by the Center for Civic Engagement and Community Service (CCECS).

The event that included the participation of Arcenciel, Catholic Relief Services, Lebanese Autism Society, Lebanese Down Syndrome Association, and the Youth Association for the Blind, began at AUB’s West Hall and moved to different locations across the campus.

The event began with two seminars and interactive discussions. The topics discussed were on the inclusion of the disabled in the Lebanese school system along with the normal students, and the inclusion of the disabled afterwards in the workplace respectively. The videos were of disabled people interacting in society. They also revealed the potential of properly accom-

modating the disabled in Lebanon. In addition, the AUB campus was put to the test when the disabled themselves experimented with the accessibility of the university’s campus.

Afterwards, there were competitions for AUB’s guests, which included a poetry and poetry recitation contest for the visually–impaired. Later, the AUB Drama Club contributed with a practice session, where they collaborated with children with Down Syndrome. The day came to an end with the screening of the movie “Rain Man.” The money raised through this event was to contribute to CCECS’s upcoming event “Blind Date.”

The Lebanese constitution of today still lacks, in terms of laws, a support to the disabled, and aids to involve them in Lebanese society. More-

over, similarly to the women’s rights movement in Lebanon, which has obtained tangible and plausible results during the past decades, its campaign for supporting and improving the lives of the disabled is still at its childhood.

Various national and international organizations are working hard and persevering in the face of many political and economic obstacles.

This constitutes the main reason why events such as “Breaking the Barrier” aim to acquire as much as possible.

Outlook Team Chairperson Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor Arabic Editor Photography Editor Layout Editor Webmaster PR Manager Business Manager

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Talal Nizameddin Lojine Kamel Nour Jane Kachicho Nouhad Awwad Mohammad B. Azzam Nadine Razzouk Mohamad Al Medawar Emile Zankoul Timmy Malkoun

Proofreader

Camelia Harb

Member-at-Large

Tracy Dariane

Layout Team News Executives

Photographers

Page 13

Annegret Funke Nabile Saleh Dalia Hosn Ali Kassem Mona Ayoub Tugce Coskun Lara Saab Khalid Abou Kossem

Staff Writers Sarah Zaytoun Loulwa Kalache Gregoire Dugueyt Jon Martin Cullell Edward Abou Jaoude Robert Isaf

Cartoonists

Amer Sare Mohamad Alameh Nader Ahmadieh Jad Shammsseddine Mada Dibs Mohammad Yaghi Heather Jaber Rayane Zahreddine Hadi Mehio Lama Zakharia Rami Panayoti Zeina Mhaidly Sarah Al-Dirani Karim Zahed Rida Daher Deedee El Jilani Ghassan Nassar Jad Jari

Outlook is a weekly publication of the American University of Beirut (“aub”) and represents the voice of the student body. It is an independent, non-affiliated publication that f vors no ethnic, religious, or political group. All columns, articles, and reports are the property of Outlook and do not necessarily represent the views of Outlook or the AUB community. Outlook welcomes all contributions. Authors are asked to please include their full name, major, ran ing, and contact information for verification. No part of this publication may be reproduced for verification. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any way, shape, or form without the written consent of Outlook and/or higher a .thorities. Outlook reserves the right to edit all material

Errata: In Volume 44, Issue 8, the viewpoint by Staff Writer Christoph Hanger entitled: The Forgotten Conflict was mislabeled under the title “The Special Tribunal for Lebanon: International Justice or International Intervention.”

The interview featured on page 6 was with Professor Neville Al Asaad Salha, whose last name was neglected in the previous issue.

In Volume 44, Issue 7, in the article “Is student’s Privacy Being Jeopardized?,” due to miscommunication, the Dean of Student Affairs office was not contacted concerning the CCTV system.

‫الثاثاء ‪ 13 ,‬كانون األول‪2011 ,‬‬

‫صفحة ‪14‬‬

‫تعرف عىل النادي الثقايف السوري‬

‫منى أيوب كاتبة صحفية‬

‫السورييون هم أهل الكرم و الضيافة‪...‬‬ ‫السورييون هم أهل الشهامة و البطوالت‪...‬‬ ‫سوريا الحضارة و الشعر و الثقافة‪....‬سوريا نزار قباين‪...‬‬ ‫هكذا أرى سوريا ‪...‬و هكذا أرى أهل سوريا‪ ..‬اآلن و أبدا‪ ....‬و ليس بالصورة‬ ‫غري اللبقة البعيدة عن الواقع التي أنتجتها اإلنقسامات السياسية اللبنانية‪...‬‬ ‫مل تكن إذن مفاجأة بالنسبة يل أن أسمع رئيس النادي الثقايف السوري‪،‬رشاد‬ ‫ح ّمور‪ ،‬يحدثني عن الثقافة السورية و عن أخالق أهلها‪...‬‬ ‫إلتقيته لنتحدث عن رسالة و أهداف النادي‪.‬‬ ‫« النادي هو ثقايف بحت‪ ..‬ال عالقة له بالسياسة أبدا‪ ...‬نشاطاته متنوعة؛ فهي‬ ‫إما ترفيهية‪ ،‬كتنظيم رحالت تعارف أو تخييم‪ ،‬و إما ثقافية كالحدث الذي‬

‫ُن ّظم السنة املاضية عن نزار قباين»‪.‬‬ ‫يقول ح ّمور أن النادي ‪ ،‬الذي أسس عام ‪ ،2000‬هو من األقدم يف الجامعة‪،‬و هو‬ ‫واحد من أكرث األندية نشاطا‪ .‬حاليا‪ ،‬يضم حوايل ‪ 200‬عضو ‪ ،‬و إن كان أغلبهم‬ ‫من الجالية السورية يف الجامعة ‪.‬‬ ‫النادي غري تابع ألي حزب سيايس أو ديني ‪ ،‬فهو مثال ال يتلقى دعام من السفارة‬ ‫السورية ‪ ،‬باستثناء الدعم املعنوي‪ ،‬و هو يشارك يف اإلنتخابات الطالبية بصفة‬ ‫مستقلة‪.‬‬ ‫يتعاون النادي مع العديد من النوادي الطالبية األخرى كبادرة تعاون و انفتاح‪.‬‬ ‫و هو يقوم بنشاطات يف مختلف املناسبات الدينية اإلسالمية و املسيحية‪.‬‬ ‫ملزيد من املعلومات ‪ ،‬زوروا صفحة الفيسبوك‪Syrian Cultural:‬‬ ‫‪Club at AUB‬‬

‫والحب‬ ‫الشباب ُ‬ ‫جاد شمس الدين كاتب صحفي‬

‫الحب هو نشاط فطري يصيب البرش والكائنات الحية عىل اختالف انواعها‪.‬‬ ‫للحب انواع‪ :‬حب النفس‪،‬حب املال‪،‬حب الطبيعة‪،‬حب الجسد‪،‬حب‬ ‫التعلم‪،‬حب الله‪،‬حب الدين‪ ،‬حب الجنس‪ ،‬الحب الرومنيس‪...‬‬ ‫رغم تعدد أنواع الحب واختالفها‪ ،‬إال أن املعنى الطاغي عىل هذه الكلمة‬ ‫هو الحب الرومنيس‪ .‬و هذا الحب بالتحديد هو نتيجة نشاط بيولوجي‬ ‫فطري ورضوري لإلنسان‪ .‬و هو يطغى يف سن الشباب‪ ،‬بحيث يكون النشاط‬ ‫البيولوجي يف أعىل مستوياته‪.‬‬ ‫يعيش الحب يف مجتمعاتنا اليوم حالة تحول جذري ملعناه الحقيقي‪ .‬فبعد‬ ‫أن كان الحب باألمس القريب مجموعة من املشاعر واألحاسيس (الحب‬

‫الرومنيس)‪ ،‬أصبح اليوم مجموعة من الغرائز الجنسية وسبي ًال لسد الشهوات‬ ‫(الحب الشهواين)‪ .‬ورواد عملية التحول هذه هم الشباب بالدرجة االوىل‪.‬‬ ‫املجتمع الشاب اليوم ال يبحث عن الحب الحقيقي األبدي‪ ،‬بل يبحث عن‬ ‫الحب املؤقت‪ ،‬حب امللذات‪ .‬و الحب الشهواين الذي دامئاً ما تكون نهايته الندم‬ ‫والحرسة عىل الوقت الذي ذهب يف الاليشء‪.‬‬ ‫الحب بالنسبة يل هو الحب األخالقي‪ ،‬الرومنيس‪ ،‬الحقيقي‪ ،‬األبدي‪ ،‬الذي‬ ‫بدوره ال يسمح يل بالتالعب مبشاعر وأحاسيس الطرف االخر أو أن أجعله‬ ‫ضحية شهوايت وغرائزي الجنسية‪ .‬و مبديئ هذا هو الذي يدفعني للتفكري ألف‬ ‫مرة قبل الدخول يف أي عالقة عاطفية‪.‬‬

‫هي هنا أو هناك ‪ ....‬و «خلص»‬

‫منى أيوب كاتبة صحفية‬

‫يف علم النفس يفرقون بني الرؤية و اإلدراك‪ ...‬فكثرية األشياء التي نراها‪ ..‬و‬ ‫كم قليلة هي التي ندركها‪...‬‬ ‫الليل و النهار ‪ ،‬الطبيعة ‪ ،‬السامء ‪ ,‬القمر و النجوم ‪ ،‬الطعام ‪ ،‬القطط يف‬ ‫الجامعة‪ ،‬املطر‪ ،‬البحر‪ ،‬وجهنا يف املرآة‪....‬‬ ‫عاطفة األم ‪ ،‬تفاين األب ‪ ،‬دفء األصدقاء ‪ ،‬لذة العمل‪...‬‬ ‫عيون كثرية عمياء‪ ..‬و قلوب كثرية غافلة عن سحر كل ما يف هذه األشياء ‪ ...‬و‬ ‫روعة كل ما يف هذا العامل‪...‬‬ ‫إنها أشياء نراها يوميا ‪ ...‬و لكنها أصبحت من البديهيات يف حياتنا ‪ ...‬ال تأخذ‬

‫الكثري من تفكرينا‪ ...‬فهي هنا أو هناك و « خلص»‪...‬‬ ‫الحياة رسيعة و املشاغل كثرية ‪....‬من يهمه أن يدرك جامل هذه األشياء؟؟ ‪...‬‬ ‫من يهمه أن يدرك اإلعجاز يف حركتها و دورتها‪...‬؟؟ من يهمه إدراك أهميتها‬ ‫و دورها يف حياتنا‪..‬؟؟‪.‬‬ ‫يرتدد يف ذهننا ‪ :‬نعم‪ ...‬هي جميلة و مهمة و معجزة ‪...‬و لكن ‪ ،‬ماذا بعد؟‬ ‫هي هنا أو هناك ‪ ....‬و «خلص»‪.‬‬ ‫إن التفكر يف كل ما حولنا رمبا ال يطعم خبزا ‪ ..‬و لكنه يطعم الروح‪...‬‬ ‫يف « عجقة» الحياة و زحمة الحياة املادية ‪ ،‬كم هي مهمة لحظات الصفاء و‬

‫هل تصح نبوءة ماركس؟‬ ‫وئام دالل مساهم صحفي‬

‫أجاب مؤخرا معظم طالب إحدى الثانويات الفرنسية عن سؤال «من هو‬ ‫أكرب اقتصادي يف التاريخ»‪« :‬ماركس» من دون تردد‪ .‬ملاذا و بعد ‪ 170‬سنة‬ ‫عىل نرشه كتاب «رأس املال» بالتعاون مع رفيق أنجلز يعود شبح الدكتور‬ ‫سليل الحاخامات الذي قال عن كتابه « لن يحمل يل كتاب رأس املال ابدا مثن‬ ‫كمية السيجار التي دخنتها لدى كتابته» إىل مخيلة شباب أوروبا الذين ما زال‬ ‫اباؤهم يخربوهم عن الذكريات السوداء للنموذج الشيوعي األخري يف القرن‬ ‫املايض أي االتحاد السوفيايت يف اوروبا الرشقية‪.‬‬ ‫رمبا ألن هؤالء الشباب اليوم و أكرث من أي وقت مىض يخافون ان يعودوا‬ ‫اىل ما قبل تأسيس اإلتحاد األورويب أي اىل زمن ميلء باملشاكل السياسية و‬ ‫املعيشية و أنظمة حكم عىل مثال النازية أو الفاشية والتي كانت السبب‬ ‫املبارش ألزمة الكساد العاملي عام ‪ .1929‬فيجدون يف نبوءة ماركس عن انهيار‬ ‫النظام الرأساميل بعد سلسلة من املشاكل الداخلية والتي تنتهي بأزمة كربى‬ ‫‪-‬أزمة ترشع األبواب لإلشرتاكية كمرحلة أوىل للشيوعية‪ -‬تحليال منطقيا للواقع‬

‫ومالذ آمنا للتخفيف من املخاوف‪.‬‬ ‫فمعظم التحليالت االقتصادية اليوم تشري اىل اننا مل ندخل بعد يف األزمة‬ ‫الحقيقية بل فقط خرجنا من املرحلة األوىل متاما كام توقع الدكتور األحمر‪.‬‬ ‫فالرأساملية يف جوهرها نظام يقوم عىل االنتاج و إعادة االنتاج ألجل الربح‬ ‫الذي هو محرك السوق و الطريق اىل فنائها يف نفس الوقت‪ .‬فيك تربح اكرث‬ ‫عليك ان تقلل التكاليف و أهمها األجور‪ ,‬ولكن عليك كذلك أن تجعل السوق‬ ‫يستهلك أكرث أي عليك أن تزيد دخل املواطن وهو ما يتعارض مع مبدأ‬ ‫تقليل األجور‪ .‬وحسب ماركس مشكلة األجور هي اهم مشاكل الرأساملية‬ ‫و التي سوف ندخلها يف نفق من األزمات كان أولها عام ‪ 1929.‬واليوم تعاين‬ ‫الرأساملية أزمة وجود بكل معنى الكلمة‪ .‬سوف يبقى العامل وأوروبا لفرتة‬ ‫طويلة ينتظرون كيف ستنتهي األزمة وكيف سيكون شكل النظام العاملي‬ ‫الجديد‪ ،‬فهل سيقول ماركس كلمته األخرية يف هذا الرصاع املفتوح منذ قرن و‬ ‫نصف ام أن الرأساملية ستتكيف مع الظروف كعادتها‪.‬‬

‫العودة إىل الروح‪...‬‬ ‫لحظات يتوقف عندها الزمن و يسكت كل يشء‪...‬‬ ‫و « ندرك» عن حق روعة كل ما حولنا ‪ ...‬و روعة و قدرة و عظمة‬ ‫خالقها‪...‬‬ ‫يقولون إن السعادة الحقة هي يف انسجام الروح مع الكائنات حولها‪...‬‬ ‫يقولون إن لحظات الصفاء تلك هي السعادة الحقة‪...‬‬ ‫فليصمت العامل من حولك‪ ...‬و تف ّكر‪.‬‬

‫الثاثاء ‪ 13 ,‬كانون األول‪2011 ,‬‬

‫النادي الثقايف الجنويب‪ :‬عرض فيلم «لن متحو ذكرنا»‬

‫محمد صربا ‪ -‬مصور مساهم‬

‫صفحة ‪15‬‬

‫جزء ‪ ،44‬عدد ‪9‬‬ ‫الثالثاء ‪ 13 ,‬كانون األول‪2011 ,‬‬

‫الولد بيجي وبتجي رزقته معه‬ ‫نهاد غازي عواد محررة قسم اللغة العربية‬ ‫هي فتاة مل تبلغ العارشة من العمر‪ ،‬تجر قربها ولد يف السابعة وطفلني احدهام‬ ‫يف الثالثة واآلخر يف سنته األوىل‪ .‬ميشون عىل الطريق بال رقيب أو حسيب‪.‬‬ ‫استوقفني املشهد‪ .‬سألتها عن أمها فاذا هي ترشب القهوة عند الجريان وأيضا‬ ‫حامل‪ .‬حسب تعبريها ‪ »:‬يف واحد جاي عالطريق»‪ .‬أما األب املسكني فهو بائع‬ ‫خضار‪ .‬وهم ميشون عىل الطريق ل»يغريوا جو»‪ .‬يقول املثل‪ :‬إعقل وتوكل‪.‬‬ ‫فالولد بحاجة لعناية وتربية وجهد مضني‪ .‬ناهيك عن متطلبات هذا العرص‪.‬‬ ‫كثرية هي هذه الحاالت يف مجتمعنا‪ ،‬ألن القاعدة السائدة هي‪»:‬الولد بيجي‬ ‫وبتجي رزقته معه»‪ .‬واملضحك املبيك أنهم يرجعون املوضوع اىل القرآن‪ .‬وال‬ ‫أدري عىل أي آية استندوا‪ .‬فاآلية الكرمية « ال تقتلوا أوالدكم خشية إمالق‪،‬‬ ‫نحن نرزقكم وإياهم» تتعلق بحرمة اإلجهاض يف حال الحمل وليس دعوة‬ ‫لإلكثار من األوالد بدون تفكري بعواقب األمور‪.‬‬ ‫من املؤكد أن الله حدد رزق الولد» ويف السامء رزقكم وما توعدون»‪ .‬وأنه‬ ‫جل وعال سريزق أباه ليك يستطيع العيش‪ .‬لكنه ال يعني إنجاب الكثري من‬ ‫األوالد‪ .‬فنحن مل نعد مجتمع زراعي‪ .‬وانجاب الولد حمل إقتصادي‪ ،‬فهناك‬ ‫الطبابة والتعليم اللذان يقسامن الظهر يف بلدنا العزيز لبنان‪ .‬اال اذا أراد‬ ‫اإلنسان العيش عىل خط الفقر أو تحته فيمكنه أن ينجب خمسني بدل‬ ‫الخمسة‪ .‬ويف دراسة حديثة‪ ،‬حوايل ال‪ % 28‬من سكان لبنان تحت خط فقر‪.‬‬ ‫ان للكرة األرضية موارد محدودة والكثافة السكانية تتزايد باستمرار‪ .‬حتى ان‬ ‫منذ الشهر ولد الطفل السبعة مليار ولحسن الحظ ‪-‬أنه لبناين‪ .‬فنحن اللبنانيون‬ ‫و الذي تطغى علينا صفة الشعب املستهلك أصبحنا منتجني للبرش و املصائب‬ ‫و بتنا نسابق األرانب و ما هي إال مسألة وقت حتى نتغلب عليهم و عىل‬ ‫أنفسنا‪ .‬لدى الجميع األسباب إلنجاب الولد األول و الثاين أما الثالث فهو‬ ‫ليسيل أخوته و الرابع إلغاظة الجارة و الخامس إلثبات ما تبقى من أنوثتها‬ ‫و السادس ليك يحصل عىل لقب بطل اإلنتاج ‪ ،‬أما السابع فليس له طعمة و‬

‫الثامن مثله و التاسع ملضايقة إخوته الثامنية السابقني‪ .‬يا ليتهم يعلمون أن‬ ‫املجتمع البرشي يواجه أزمة غذاء عاملية‪ .‬وأن العديد من الدراسات تجرى‬ ‫إليجاد مصادر طاقة بديلة‪.‬‬ ‫صحيح أن معدل النمو السكاين يف لبنان ليس مرتفع‪ .‬فحسب تقرير األمم‬ ‫املتحدة سنة ‪ 2006‬يبلغ ‪ 1,05‬من غري إحتساب الذين يف بالد اإلغرتاب‪ .‬لكن‬ ‫الكثافة السكانية هي من بني األعىل يف العامل حيث تبلغ ثالمثائة وخمسني إىل‬ ‫أربعامئة شخص يف الكيلومرت املر ّبع الواحد‪ .‬فحتى حكومة السويد ال ميكنها‬ ‫تأمني مستلزمات العيش الكريم والبنية التحتية لهذا العدد‪ .‬اآلن عرفنا أحد‬ ‫أسباب أزمة السري الخانقة‪ .‬فانتباه من أن يفجر لبنان وتفجر معه دولتنا‪.‬‬ ‫مشكلتنا ليست فقط قي الرشاوي واملحسوبيات‪ ،‬وليس يف الحروب التي بحمد‬ ‫الله ساهمت يف خفض معدل الخصوبة لدى النساء اللبنانيات و ليس االستعامر‬ ‫الذي رحل منذ مثانية و ستني سنة ‪ .‬ليس هذه العوامل هي فقط املسؤولة‬ ‫عن تخلفنا ‪...‬إنها أنانية البعض و ال مسؤوليتهم و شطارتهم يف اإلنجاب ‪.‬من‬ ‫املسؤول عن شح املياه و تأمني الكهرباء و أزمة املحروقات و املواصالت و‬ ‫التعليم و البطالة و الت ّلوث ووووو‪....‬؟؟؟؟‬ ‫تم يف الفرتة األخرية توزيع رزمة تثقيف ّية مجانا يف املسشتفيات الحكوم ّية‪،‬‬ ‫صحة األم والطفل‪ ،‬خاصة يف ما يتع ّلق‬ ‫وتحتوي عىل معلومات إرشاد ّية لضامن ّ‬ ‫ّ‬ ‫بالرضاعة الطبيع ّية وبلقاحات األطفال املتوفرة ‪ ،‬وبشهادة والدة ّ‬ ‫تلخص التزام‬ ‫املولود الجديد مبسؤولياته للحفاظ عىل كوكب أفضل‪ .‬صحيح أن الخطوة أتت‬ ‫متأخرة وما يزال هناك العديد من الجهود الذي يجب أن تبذل‪ ،‬لكنها بداية‬ ‫للكثري من الخطوات‪ .‬وقد رصح رئيس الجمع ّية اللبنان ّية للتوليد واألمراض‬ ‫النسائ ّية الدكتور فيصل القاق عن هذه الحملة بالقول‪»:‬ان الحملة س ّلطت‬ ‫الضوء عىل مفهوم اإلنجاب كخيار يجب التخطيط له لضامن رعاية أفضل لألم‬ ‫والطفل واألرسة بشكل عام‪ .‬فبحسب القاق‪ ،‬ي ّؤثر عدم املباعدة بني الوالدات‪،‬‬

‫نرشة جوية‪...‬‬ ‫رسالة إىل املحرر – غدير نوفل‬

‫إستيقظ العرب أخرياً عىل واقع حالهم املزري‪ .‬إستيقظوا من سبات شتوي دام‬ ‫قرابة الجيل الكامل من األنظمة املستبدة الطاغية‪ ،‬وحكام وحوايش صاغوا من‬ ‫االمرباطوريات معانٍ أخرى جديدة‪ .‬كان للربيع يف عام ‪ 2011‬تأثرياً جديداً عىل‬ ‫املنطقة العربية‪ ،‬حيث ألول مرة أفاق اإلنسان والطبيعة معاً استفاقة تاريخية‬ ‫ّ‬ ‫سطرت بداية عهد جديد من حرية فوضوية‪...‬رمبا‪...‬من إصالح وفساد‪...‬رمبا‬ ‫أيضا‪ً.‬‬ ‫ما عادت نرشة األخبار تحيك حالنا؛ إمنا نرشة الجو‪ .‬تونس‪ ،‬ثم مرص‪ ،‬ثم‬ ‫البحرين‪ ،‬ثم وثم وثم‪...‬والقامئة ال تنتهي إال عند الرقم اثنني وعرشين‪ .‬عدوى‬ ‫دام تنتقل من بلد إىل آخر‪ .‬دعوات إىل إصالح يف املاملك‪ ،‬وحراك شعبي‬ ‫ربيع ٍ‬ ‫واسع أشعلته نار (بوعزيزي) الحرية‪ ،‬وح ّركته سواعد شبابية أثبتت أن إرادة‬ ‫الشعوب املكبوتة مل تزل حية‪ ،‬وتحرقه نار من نوع آخر؛ نار مدافع الحكم‪.‬‬

‫وأصبح طقسنا كاآليت؛ ربيع يبدأ يف منطقة وخريف ينتهي يف أخرى بسقوط‬ ‫آخر ورقة من شجرة الحكم اآليلة للسقوط‪ ...‬شتاء دافئ أصاب أنظمة تخىش‬ ‫من تفتح الزهور‪...‬وعواصف‪ .‬عواصف أحدثت فوىض عارمة قلبت منطقة‬ ‫العرب رأسا عىل عقب‪ .‬أنا ال أقول أن هذه الفوىض من النوع الضا ّر‪ ،‬إمنا مل‬ ‫يتعود الواحد منا عىل هذا الكم من الحراك السيايس واألحزاب والحريات‬ ‫الجديدة التي تظهر عىل الساحة‪.‬‬ ‫تقلبات جوية مصحوبة مبنخفضات غريبة املصدر‪ ،‬تضعنا تحت رحمة تساؤالت‬ ‫قاس‪...‬هل هي فصول الطبيعة تلك التي تحركنا‪...‬أم فصول مرسحية؟‬ ‫شتا ٍء ٍ‬ ‫‪...‬يتقلب الطقس وال تنتهي النرشة‪.‬‬

‫‪Bliss Street, West Hall 208 tel: 01 350 000 ext. 3193‬‬

‫‪http://www.alre7ab.com/userfiles‬‬ ‫وعدم استشارة الطبيب قبل الحمل‪ ،‬وعدم املتابعة الطب ّية أثناء وبعد فرتة‬ ‫صحة املرأة‪ ،‬وتزيد من تع ّرضها ملشاكل كارتفاع الضغط‬ ‫الحمل عىل سالمة ّ‬ ‫الحميل‪ ،‬والطلق املبكر‪ ،‬والخضوع لوالدة قيرص ّية‪ ،‬ولضغوطات نفس ّية‪ .‬ويذكر‬ ‫بأن عدد الوالدات يف لبنان يرتاوح بني اثنني وستون ألفا وأربعة وستني ألف‬ ‫والدة يف ّ‬ ‫كل عام‪».‬‬ ‫ويبقى السؤال املحري‪ :‬ملاذا الفقري يف لبنان ينجب عرشة أوالد بينام األثرياء‬ ‫يكتفون بولد واحد وعىل أكرثها ولدين؟‬