EnglishDaily Podcast

Hello dear friends, this is EnglishDaily Podcast and I am Zahra Yusefi. Our story today is called "The Boarded Window." It was written by Ambrose Bierce.In 1830, only a few miles away from what is now the great city of Cincinnati, Ohio, lay a huge and almost endless forest.The area had a few settlements established by people of the frontier. Many of them had already left the area for settlements further to the west. But among those remaining was a man who had been one of the first people to arrive here.He lived alone in a house of logs surrounded on all sides by the great forest. He seemed a part of the darkness and silence of the forest, for no one had ever known him to smile or speak an unnecessary word. His simple needs were supplied by selling or trading the skins of wild animals in the town.His little log house had a single door. Directly opposite was a window. The window was boarded up. No one could remember a time when it was not. And no one knew why it had been closed. I imagine there are few people living today who ever knew the secret of that window. But I am one, as you shall see.The man's name was said to be Murlock. He appeared to be seventy years old, but he was really fifty. Something other than years had been the cause of his aging.His hair and long, full beard were white. His gray, lifeless eyes were sunken. His face was wrinkled. He was tall and thin with drooping shoulders—like someone with many problems.I never saw him. These details I learned from my grandfather. He told me the man's story when I was a boy. He had known him when living nearby in that early day.One day Murlock was found in his cabin, dead. It was not a time and place for medical examiners and newspapers. I suppose it was agreed that he had died from natural causes or I should have been told, and should remember.

"COMMITMENTS TO UPHOLD" Between August 1978 and his passing in January 1985, Dr. Thompson endured near-constant, agonizing pain. His usual weight of 180 pounds dwindled by half, and even pain-relief medications no longer offered solace. Realizing he had little time left, Dr. Thompson tirelessly dedicated himself to MEDICO, the organization he had established to provide medical assistance and hope to the world's ailing and underprivileged. During those challenging days, he couldn't help but reflect on Robert Frost's lines: "The woods are beautiful, dark, and profound, but I have commitments to fulfill and many responsibilities before I rest." When he eventually succumbed, millions worldwide were shocked and mourned the loss.

Hello this is EnglishDaily Podcast and I am Zahra Yusefi.Under the guise of a surgeon, he managed to enter the hospital. During his conversation with the director, he had to invent a story about his medical background. However, he was so skilled at deception and he succeeded. It was only when the fake "doctor" started waving his scalpel frantically that an alert nurse identified the imposter. Throughout the history of medicine, there have been several instances like this one.

The Handcuff Is Quicker Than The Eye I'm Zahra Yusefi and this is EnglishDaily Podcast. Slippery Eddie, the infamous pickpocket, was back at work, 'and every detective had to be especially vigilant. Eddie's technique was to jostle a victim toward a confederate who would then slip the man's wallet out of his back pocket while Eddie was stammering an apology to the confused dupe. Within a week the incipient crimewave came to an end when Slippery Eddie inadvertently chose the chief of police for his victim. Although Eddie loathes Sing Sing, it's his permanent address now.

Welcome to "EnglishDaily Podcast," in this podcast we are going to talk about to unlock our concentration potential and excel in a world filled with distractions. I'm Zahra Yusefi, and today we're diving deep into the art of concentration. If you've ever struggled to stay focused or felt overwhelmed by a lack of attention, you're in the right place.

Welcome to EnglishDaily Podcast. In this podcast we are going to take you on a journey through the intricacies of economics and its impact on our lives. I'm Zahra Yusefi, and today we're diving into a widely used measure of inequality —the Gini coefficient . Join me as we explore the significance of this index and its implications for societies around the world. [Background instrumental music]The Gini coefficient, named after Corrado Gini, is a statistical measure that quantifies the level of income or wealth inequality within a given population. It is often represented as a number between 0 and 1, where 0 signifies perfect equality , and 1 represents extreme inequality. At its core, the Gini coefficient provides a snapshot of how income or wealth is distributed among individuals or households within a society. By analyzing the distribution of resources, economists and policymakers can gain insights into the fairness, social mobility, and potential social and economic challenges that a society may face. To calculate the Gini coefficient, researchers plot the cumulative shares of the population on the horizontal axis, ranging from the poorest to the richest individuals. On the vertical axis, they plot the cumulative share of income or wealth that corresponds to each segment of the population. The Gini coefficient is then derived from the area between the observed income or wealth distribution curve and the line of perfect equality, which represents a completely equal distribution. A Gini coefficient of 0 indicates that every individual within a society has an equal share of income or wealth. This scenario represents a utopian state of perfect equality. On the other hand, a Gini coefficient of 1 signifies extreme inequality, where all the income or wealth is concentrated in the hands of a single individual or a small fraction of the population. It's important to note that the interpretation of the Gini coefficient may vary across different contexts and countries. A Gini coefficient of 0.3, for example, might be considered relatively equal in one society but highly unequal in another. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the context and compare the coefficient with other relevant factors to gain a comprehensive understanding of the distribution of resources within a particular society. The Gini coefficient provides valuable insights into societal dynamics. High levels of income or wealth inequality can have far-reaching consequences, such as decreased social mobility, political instability, and social unrest. Unequal distribution of resources can exacerbate disparities in access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for upward mobility, creating barriers for those at the lower end of the income or wealth spectrum. Conversely, societies with lower Gini coefficients, indicating a more equal distribution, tend to exhibit higher levels of social cohesion, trust, and overall well-being. Reduced inequality can foster economic growth, as a broader segment of the population has the means to contribute to and benefit from economic activities. It can also enhance social capital, leading to healthier and more stable societies. Monitoring changes in the Gini coefficient over time allows policymakers to assess the impact of economic policies and interventions. It helps identify whether efforts to reduce inequality are effective or whether further measures are necessary to promote a fairer distribution of resources. Additionally, the Gini coefficient facilitates cross-country comparisons, enabling researchers to analyze and learn from different approaches to addressing inequality. However, it's important to acknowledge the limitations of the Gini coefficient. While it provides a useful summary measure, it does not capture the full complexity of inequality. It doesn't account for factors such as differences in living costs, access to public services, or non-monetary forms of inequality. Therefore, it should be used in conjunction with other indicators and qualitative assessments to gain a comprehensive understanding of societal well-being.  The Gini coefficient serves as a powerful tool for economists, policymakers, and researchers seeking to understand and address inequality within societies. By examining the distribution of income or wealth, we can strive or fairer and more inclusive societies that prioritize equal opportunities and social mobility. [Background instrumental music fades out] I'm Zahra Yusefi and thank you for joining me in this podcast, The Gini Coefficient. If you found this episode informative, be sure to subscribe EnglishDaily Podcast on YouTube, Instagram and Castbox. for more enlightening discussions on the fascinating world of economics. Until next time, let's strive for a more equitable future.

Welcome to Englishdaily Podcast, I'm Zahra Yusefi and today we are going to learn about Thatcherism.Thatcherism refers to a conservative ideology in Britain named after Margaret Thatcher, the leader of the Conservative Party. It encompasses not only her political platform and policies but also her personal character and management style while in office. Supporters of Thatcherism are known as Thatcherites. The term is used to describe the principles of the British government during Thatcher's tenure from 1979 to 1990, as well as subsequent conservative administrations under John Major and David Cameron. Internationally, Thatcherites are seen as part of the neoliberal movement, which advocates for political promoting expansionary capitalism.Thatcherism represents a significant departure from the post-war consensus in British governance, where major political parties generally agreed on Keynesianism, the welfare state, nationalized industries, and tight regulation of the economy. However, Thatcher made an exception for the National Health Service (NHS), while remained popular and was considered safe under her administration.The exact definition and legacy of Thatcherism have been subject to debate. Nigel Lawson, Thatcher's Chancellor of the Exchequer, described it as an ideology emphasizing free markets, limited government spending, tax cuts, British nationalism, privatization, and some elements of populism. Although Thatcher rarely used the term herself, she mentioned "Thatcherism" in a speech during her 1987 election campaign, referring to the economic successes achieved under her leadership.Thatcherism shares similarities with other economic liberal movements worldwide, such as Reaganomics in the United States, economic rationalism in Australia, and Rogernomics in New Zealand. It aims to promote low inflation, a small state, and free markets through measures like tight control of the money supply, privatization, and restrictions on labor movements.Thatcherism is associated with libertarianism within the Conservative Party, though it combines libertarian ends with strong and sometimes authoritarian leadership. While some argue that Thatcherism is genuinely libertarian, others suggest that it involves a strong central government in certain areas, such as trade unions and local authorities, leading to a combination of free-market principles and a robust state.Thatcher's style of governance was characterized by centralization of power, bypassing traditional cabinet structures, and displaying personal toughness during key events like the Falklands War, the IRA bomb at the Conservative conference, and the miners' strike. Her government was also criticized for its approach to social issues and the welfare state, with Thatcher emphasizing personal responsibility and advocating for reforms to address dependency on the state.Economically, Thatcherism is associated with monetarism, which prioritizes controlling inflation over unemployment, and supply-side economics, which focuses on creating a free market through tax cuts, privatization, and constraints on trade unions. However, there were debates within the Thatcher government about the strict application of monetarism, and some argue that the principles of monetarism were eventually abandoned.Overall, Thatcherism represents a significant ideological and policy shift in British politics, with lasting effects on the country's economic and social landscape.Trade union legislationTrade union power was gradually reduced, unlike the approach taken by the Edward Heath government. The most significant clash with the unions occurred during the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) strike in 1984-1985, which ultimately resulted in the defeat of the miners' union. Both the Conservative Party and the NUM expected this confrontation with the trade unions, and its outcome contributed to the resurgence of capital's power over labor.Domestic and social positionsFrequently, the problems of the country are attributed to societal issues. However, Margaret Thatcher believed society is merely a concept and that it is individuals and families who possess duties, beliefs, and the ability to take action. She valued personal responsibility and choice, emphasizing the importance of individual and familial actions over abstract societal concepts.Thatcherite moralityThatcherism combined conservatism with free-market economics, aiming to establish a rational tax-benefit economic system that promoted British efficiency and upheld a conservative social structure based on traditional moral values. While a minimal safety net for the poor remained, the focus was on encouraging individual effort and thrift. Thatcherism aimed to diminish the significance of welfare for the middle class and revive Victorian bourgeois virtues. It emphasized the importance of the family and differed from the extreme individualism of many neoliberal models. The ideology drew influence from historical experiences such as Methodism and concerns about an overly powerful state expressed by Hayek.Norman Tebbit, a close ally of Thatcher, outlined the permissive society that conservatives should oppose, criticizing the acceptance of bad art, disregard for grammar and spelling, rejection of good manners, and the derision of family life. He believed that the lack of moral distinctions led to disorder in homes and classrooms, where there was no basis for punishment or reward. He also noted the acceptance of violence and soft pornography in the media, lamenting the consequences of these societal changes.Sermon on the MoundIn 1988, Thatcher delivered a speech to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, where she justified her ideas on capitalism and the market economy from a theological perspective. She argued that Christianity focused on spiritual redemption rather than social reform and quoted St. Paul's statement that "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." Thatcher connected the concept of choice to Christianity, highlighting Jesus Christ's choice to sacrifice himself and asserting that all individuals have the God-given right to choose between good and evil.Foreign policyAtlanticismThatcher fostered strong transatlantic relations with US President Ronald Reagan during her time as prime minister. She publicly supported Reagan's policies even when other Western allies were less vocal. For instance, she allowed American military actions, such as the bombing of Libya in 1986, to use British bases and permitted the deployment of American missiles in response to the Soviet threat.EuropeThatcher initially supported Britain's entry into the European Economic Community in 1973, campaigned for a "Yes" vote in the 1975 referendum, and signed the Single European Act in 1986. However, towards the end of the 1980s, Thatcher became increasingly opposed to the idea of the European Community superseding British sovereignty. In her famous 1988 Bruges speech, she expressed her concerns about the European superstate and the erosion of Britain's achievements in reducing the role of the state.Dispute over the term "Thatcherism"The term "Thatcherism" is often attributed to cultural theorist Stuart Hall, but it was actually used by Tony Heath in 1973. Not all critics agree on the validity of the term, with some arguing that it was created by Thatcher's opponents to criticize her rigid adherence to specific principles. Others claim that her policies were consistent with long-standing conservative philosophy and not unique to Thatcherism. Some historians argue that the shift in British society's concerns towards individual rights and autonomy contributed to the appeal of Thatcherism.Critics argue that Thatcherism came at a significant social cost to the British population. While Thatcher is credited with reviving the economy, she is also blamed for a rise in income inequality and poverty rates. The relative poverty rate doubled, and the childhood-poverty rate in Britain became the highest in Europe. The Gini coefficient, which measures income inequality, increased during Thatcher's government and remained high for the next two decades.Thatcher's economic reforms have been linked to improved macroeconomic performance in the UK compared to other European economies. Tony Blair acknowledged the necessity of Thatcher's industrial and economic reforms, although he criticized some of her ideological tendencies. Nevertheless, her policies and their long-term effects remain a subject of debate and controversy.This is Englishdaily Podcast and I'm Zahra Yusefi. Follow me on Instagram and subscribe the channel on YouTube and Castbox.

Desert Storm Decision In the 1991 Persian Gulf War, where the United Nations forces, led by Americans, ousted the invading Iraqi army from Kuwait's soil, the cessationof combat took place in short order after the Allies were able to wrest control of the skies from the infamous Saddam Hussein's air force. General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, the U.S. field commander, tended to bristle when asked by the media why he hadn't pursued the enemy all the way to Baghdad, saying: It would have been foolhardy for us to try to occupy that capital city and pile up American casualties from sniper attacks by Iraq's guerillas. That may be hard for you Monday morning quarterbacks to understand but I thoroughly agreed with the president who was convinced that such an action would have sent a bad message to the Arab world and would have splintered the Allied partnership." Schwarzkopf reiterated that it was his mission to hurl back the invaders with a minimum of bloodshed but not, he added in a caustic tone, "to splatter Sad dam over the desert sands. That dictator's days are numbered," the general concluded," but I expect his end is likely to come at the hands of his own people." As it happens, the general was wrong about that.pyrrhic victory: Too costly victory

Title: "Protecting Your Inner Sanctuary: A Monologue on Avoiding Toxic Relationships"[Background music: Calm and introspective]Host (H): Welcome to "Protecting Your Inner Sanctuary," the podcast that delves into the importance of avoiding toxic relationships. I'm your host, and today, we embark on a journey to explore strategies for recognizing and avoiding toxic people. Let's cultivate a healthy and nurturing environment by learning how to navigate away from toxic relationships.[Background music transitions to a contemplative and empowering melody]H: Toxic people. They can drain our energy, undermine our self-esteem, and hinder our personal growth. Recognizing toxic relationships is the first step towards protecting our well-being and preserving our inner peace. So, how do we identify and avoid toxic people in our lives?H: The first key is to trust your instincts. Pay attention to how you feel when interacting with someone. Do you feel constantly drained, anxious, or diminished in their presence? Trust those feelings. Your intuition can often sense the red flags that may not be immediately apparent. If something feels off or uncomfortable, it's important to acknowledge and explore those emotions.H: Another crucial factor is setting healthy boundaries. Toxic people often disregard boundaries and may try to manipulate or control others. Establish clear boundaries for yourself and communicate them assertively. Learn to say "no" when necessary and prioritize your well-being. Surround yourself with individuals who respect and honor your boundaries, fostering an environment of mutual respect and support.[Background music shifts to a determined and resilient rhythm]H: Building self-awareness is essential in avoiding toxic relationships. Take time to reflect on your values, goals, and aspirations. Understand what kind of people align with your vision for a fulfilling and positive life. By knowing yourself deeply, you can more easily identify those who may not contribute positively to your well-being. Choose to invest your time and energy in relationships that uplift and inspire you.H: It's also important to be mindful of patterns and behaviors exhibited by toxic individuals. Look out for signs of manipulation, constant criticism, excessive negativity, or an inability to take responsibility for their actions. Surround yourself with individuals who embody empathy, kindness, and genuine support. Seek out relationships that nurture your growth and bring out the best in you.[Background music: Reflective and contemplative]H: As we conclude our exploration of avoiding toxic people, let us remember that our well-being is paramount. It's okay to distance ourselves from relationships that don't serve us positively. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift, inspire, and encourage your personal growth. Cultivate a supportive network that respects and values your authentic self.H: This is "Protecting Your Inner Sanctuary," where we celebrate the importance of avoiding toxic relationships and the transformative power it holds. Until we meet again, may your relationships be filled with positivity and mutual respect, may your boundaries be firmly established, and may your journey be marked by the nurturing embrace of healthy connections. I'm your host, and this is "English Podcast with Zara".[Background music fades out][End of the podcast]

In this unit, you'll be learning some new English vocabularies related to "progress and aim" such as:keenfrustrationencouragementachievementand ....

Vocabulary LearningIn this chapter you will be learning new vocabulary related to the concept of "learning".

داستان باد شمالی و آفتاب برگرفته از داستانی از داستان سرای یونانی ایزوپ، هست. باد شمال نماد قدرت و آفتاب نماد مهر هست.