QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 1

Transcription

1 QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 1

2 Table of Contents 1.0 Prologue and Quality of Life Prologue P Quality of Life in DSE Liberal Studies DSE Records about Quality of Life P. 4-5 DSE Liberal Studies Requirement on Quality of Life P Fundamental Concepts of Quality of Life Definition of Quality of Life P. 8 General Application of Quality of Life P. 9 Material Life and Spiritual Life P General Indicators of Quality of Life P Indicators in measuring Quality of Life Economic Indicators of Quality of Life P Social Indicators of Quality of Life P Political Indicators of Quality of Life P Cultural Indicators of Quality of Life P Environmental Indicators of Quality of Life P Methods and Obstacles in Quality of Life Methods in maintaining and improving Quality of Life P Evaluation of Hong Kong s Quality of Life from CUHK Quality of Life Index P Hong Kong Today Facts and Information about Hong Kong Basic Facts of Hong Kong P Hong Kong History P Economic Characteristics of Hong Kong P. 75 Geographical Characteristics of Hong Kong P Common Issues related to Quality of Life P Skills about Quality of Life Question Questions directly related to Quality of Life P Practice and Exercises Point-thinking Exercises P Mock Papers about Quality of Life P Blank Note Page P QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 2

3 Prologue In DSE Liberal Studies, there are 6 modules and 12 themes: 1. Personal Development and Interpersonal Relationships a. Understanding Oneself b. Interpersonal Relationships 2. Hong Kong Today a. Quality of Life b. Rule of Law and Socio-political Participation c. Identity 3. Modern China a. China s reform and opening-up b. Chinese Culture and Modern Life 4. Globalization a. Impact of Globalization and its related responses 5. Public Health a. Understanding of Public Health b. Science, Technology and Public Health 6. Energy, Technology and the Environment a. Influences of Energy Technology b. The Environment and Sustainable Development From all the modules, Hong Kong Today is the most important and essential module in Liberal Studies DSE Examination. Under Hong Kong Today, Quality of Life is the most important theme and more than half of the questions in the DSE paper are related to Quality of Life. Therefore, students must study and revise well on Quality of Life to achieve higher score in Liberal Studies. This revision book is an essential item in revising and understanding related concepts about Hong Kong Today and Quality of Life. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 3

4 DSE Questions about Quality of Life Year Paper No. Question Marks a How may sustainable development help to improve people s quality of life in China? Explain your answer c Expressing demands through processions and demonstrations helps to improve the quality of life of Hong Kong people. To what extent do you agree with this view? Explain your answer with reference to the sources and your own knowledge a Evaluate the impact of night lighting on the quality of life of Hong Kong people. Justify your answer b Source A claims that standard working hours is essential to the improvement of the quality of life of Hong Kong people. To what extent do you agree with this claim? Explain your answer c Urban farming will improve the quality of life of people in Hong Kong. Explain how the sources support this claim a Based on the source, compare the levels of happiness in Singapore and Hong Kong, and compare the patterns of satisfaction with quality of life in these two places b Based on the source, explain which two dimensions of quality of life in Hong Kong should be given priority for enhancement in order to raise the level of happiness in Hong Kong. For each dimension you have mentioned, suggest and explain one way by which the satisfaction with quality of life in that dimension could be enhanced in Hong Kong a In what ways might the modernisation of traditional wet markets as described in the source improve the QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 4

5 quality of life of people in Hong Kong? Explain your answer a Explain the possible impact of the spread of antimicrobial resistance on quality of life. 8 DSE Records of Issues related to Quality of Life Year Paper No. Question Ageing Population Transport Infrastructure Solid Waste Disposal Sustainable Development in China Protest and Demonstration Hong Kong s Energy Policy Light Pollution Standard Working Hours Hong Kong s Agricultural Development Local Traditional Businesses Happiness Index between Hong Kong and Singapore Fast Fashion Traditional Wet Market and Culture Electric Vehicles QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 5

6 Quality of Life in DSE Liberal Studies Curriculum: Module 2 - Hong Kong Today, Theme 1 - Quality of Life Basic Learning Objectives of Quality of Life in DSE Liberal Studies: Needs and Problems of Hong Kong Society Historical and Current Development of the Hong Kong Economy Functions and services of the government Physical and Human characteristics of the environment of Hong Kong Rights and Responsibilities of Consumers Current environmental issues in Hong Kong Questions for enquiry of Quality of Life: Key Question: Which directions might be chosen in maintaining and improving Hong Kong residents quality of life? What are the different opinions of Hong Kong residents on the priorities which constitute the quality of life? Which aspects of the quality of life are seen to be more important? Which are seen to be immediate needs? Who might make the decisions? Why? How can individuals or organizations contribute to the maintenance and improvement of quality of life? What are the obstacles of their effort? Which groups of people are most affected if these obstacles are not removed? QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 6

7 Explanatory notes from the C&A Guide Possible perspectives from which to measure the quality of life according to objective criteria or subjective judgment might include: - The economic perspective (e.g. unemployment rate, per capita gross domestic product, real wages, disparity between the rich and poor) - The social perspective (e.g. the level of medical and health care, access to education and its level, equal opportunities) - The cultural perspective (e.g. diversity, heritage) - The political perspective (e.g. human rights and rule of law, freedom of the press, the government s performance) - The environmental perspective (e.g. level of pollution, development of environmental protection and conservation) - People s opinions about the quality of life may vary according to short and long-term costs and benefits to individuals, social groups and government - Hurdles with respect to maintaining and improving the quality of life, e.g. mobilisation of resources, technological level, social cohesion, perceptions of social justice, regional and international factors - Valuation of the quality of life may vary according to: - different configurations of people / social strata / interest groups - majority vs. minority - vocal vs. silent - active vs. passive - abundance vs. scarcity - judgment of urgency: consideration of personal, group and public interests QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 7

8 Fundamental Concepts of Quality of Life Conceptualization - Quality of Life Individuals level of satisfaction in relation to the different aspects of their lives People s satisfaction towards material life and spiritual life General well being of individuals and society Basic Concept Map: Quality of Life can be separated into 2 general measurements: 1. Quality - Subjective v.s. Objective 2. Life - Material v.s. Non-material (Spiritual) Checkpoint: Define Quality of Life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 8

9 Standard of Living Standard of Living is the degree of wealth, comfort, material goods and necessities available to a certain class in a certain area. It is often objectively measured and it is usually measuring about the daily living and daily life. 衣 食 住 行 Clothing Eating Living Transport Material Life Living The Standard can be objectively measured by some specific indicators such as unemployment rate, consumer price index Maslow s Hierarchy of Needs: Standard of Living is the basic need in Physiological Needs As living standard improves, the level of hierarchy also rises to another level ***Improve in standard of Living DOES NOT MEAN improve in quality of life, if your standard of living improves but it damages the environment, then the Quality of Life does not improve QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 9

10 Material Life Material Life is the quality of life that things can be directly bought by money. It is affected by the material happiness that can be bought by money. Use money to exchange for happiness -> Material Life Usually, material life are usually something tangible because those are things that you can directly bought by money. Examples of Material Life: Clothing, Houses, Bus Transportation, Ocean Park Ticket, IPhone X, Massage Service, Cup Noodles, Cosmetic Products Materialism ( 物質主義 ) Hong Kong is a materialistic society. In Hong Kong, some people believe that buying a lot of materialistic products can fulfil their happiness and that will increase their quality of life. An improve a material life DOES NOT MEAN an improve in quality of life, as an improve a material life DOES NOT MEAN that there is an improve in spiritual life. Consumerism ( 消費主義 ) Some people think that buying a lot of things/doing a lot of economic transactions can bring happiness. Materialism V.S. Consumerism Materialism More like to be individual Consumerism More like to be social QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 10

11 Spiritual Life Spiritual Life is the quality of life that things cannot be bought by money directly. It is affected by personal happiness and esteem. Cannot use money to exchange happiness -> Spiritual Life As spiritual life and material life are opposite concepts (As one requires money, one does not), spiritual life is also known as non-material life ( 非物質生活 ) Usually, spiritual life are usually something intangible which you can not see and touch it because it is about your personal happiness and esteem. Examples of Spiritual Life: Marriage, Esteem, Interpersonal Relationships, Love, Personal Health, Self-actualization Self-esteem ( 自尊 ) is often measured to affective or emotional aspect of self. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 11

12 Subjective Perceptions Subjective Perceptions is the personal view/opinion/feeling towards life satisfaction. It is very subjective (Personal). Is this glass of water half full or half empty? Actually, there is no definite answer for this question, both answers are correct. But how you think, how you perceive about the figure is your own subjective perception. It is very difficult and hard to measure something with subjective perceptions and personal view. Example: Are you happy? Do you think you are beautiful?... For these questions, it is hard to give you an accurate answer. Perhaps I think myself being happy, but you may think that I am negative or unhappy. Different people have different opinion/perceptions towards these subjective measurements. It Is hard to have a definite accurate answer, very subjective. Relations to Quality of Life: One of the measurements towards quality of life is life satisfaction and happiness. This is the measurement in which citizens feel happy and feel good on their living on the society. So how can we measure how happy the citizens feel? How do they feel on their living? This is very subjective. DSE_2017_P1_Q3_Comparison of Happiness Index and life satisfaction between Hong Kong and Singapore QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 12

13 Objective Environment Objective Environment is the universal view/opinion/feeling towards life situation. It is very objective (universal) Everybody thinks and agrees/disagrees with that. Complete the following test: = 2. A, B, C, D, E, F, 3. The Gini Co-efficient of Hong Kong is 4. The Capital City of China is. There is an absolute correct answer for the question. Score: /4 Complete the following test: 1. The Housing Price of Hong Kong is high/low. 2. The air pollution in Beijing is serious/not serious. 3. The unemployment rate in Hong Kong is high/low. In these questions, as there are a specific indicator to measure about the performance, people will have a general view. This is the objective environment The objective environment is simpler to measure as it can be measured by some specific indicators with specific levels, boundaries, values, statistics that can prove a phenomenon (E.g. Unemployment rate, Income median, Air pollution index ) A number can directly tell you the phenomenon and everybody will agree with that, that is the objective environment. There is always a specific number or statistic on objective environment. E.g. Unemployment rate of Hong Kong = 2.8% (Quite Low -> Good economy), Consumer Price Index = 3.1% (Quite High), Air Pollution Index, Rule of Law Index, Education Level (PISA) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 13

14 Life Satisfaction Life Satisfaction is generally the subjective view of how satisfied/happy your daily living is. It is subjective view because the satisfaction or happiness cannot be easily measured, it is your own perception and your own opinion. Someone might think that they are very happy, but some might not. The measurement of life satisfaction can vary from different aspects such as economy, happiness, esteem, society, politics, social atmosphere But in general, it can be measured in terms of personal and social. Personal: How happy are you? Personal happiness Social: How is the social atmosphere? The economy? Open-spaces? As society also affect one person s life Life Satisfaction and Quality of Life Life satisfaction is approximately positively correlated with Quality of Life But the quality might be affected by the objective environment and subjective perceptions. You might have high personal life satisfaction but if the objective environment is poor, the general quality of life will also be poor. DSE_2017_P1_Q3 Comparison of Happiness Index and Life Satisfaction between Hong Kong and Singapore QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 14

15 Human Development Index Human Development Index is the indicator used to measure a country's overall achievement in its social and economic dimensions. The social and economic dimensions of a country are based on the health of people, their level of education attainment and their standard of living Human Development index is an integrated and complicated indicator which can reflect the situation of Quality of Life of Hong Kong people. The main indicators involving in the human development index are: Health Life Expectancy Education Achievement Years of education Living Standard GNI (Gross National Income) The value of human developing index is only ranging from 0-1. The Human Development Index Ranking in 2015: Rank Country/Region Index Value 1 Norway Australia Switzerland Germany Denmark/Singapore Hong Kong Among the countries, the first 25% will be regarded as extremely high human development standard. The next 25% will be high human development level. The next 25% will be medium human development level and the remaining 25% will be low human development level. Human Development index can reflect quality of life in a certain extent. A high development index implies a high living standard and a better quality of life. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 15

16 Quality of Life Index Quality of Life Index is an indicator that measures the performance of quality of life of a region. There are different quality of life indices in different places, directed by different authorities with different measuring indicators. But they are all related to quality of life, there are complicated and different measurements towards quality of life. For example, the quality of life index directed by Chinese University of Hong Kong: Quality of Life Index (CUHK) [For Hong Kong] From Chinese University of Hong Kong [2003] Measurement: Hong Kong changes of Quality of Life Indicator Standard: Social, Economic, Environmental Index Involved: Freedom of Press Index, Government Performance Index, Pressure Index... The base number is 100 and the CUHK Hong Kong Quality of Life Index in 2016 is QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 16

17 Measurement of Quality of Life in 5 Aspects Economical ( 經濟層面 ) Social ( 社會層面 ) Political ( 政治層面 ) Cultural ( 文化層面 ) Environmental ( 環境層面 ) Type of Industry (Primary Industry, Tertiary Industry ) Economic Base (Externally Oriented Economy ) Type of Economy (Command Economy, Mixed Economy ) Economic Income Level (GDP, Income Median ) Wage Level (Actual Wage, Inflation Level...) Employment Performance (Unemployment rate ) Disparity (Gini Co-efficient, 1/10 Income Distribution ) Price Level (Consumer Price Index CPI ) Medical Performance (Life Expectancy, Medical Resources ) Education Performance (Education Level, Education Upward Mobility ) Social Welfare Performance (Policy, Welfare ) Equality (Equal Opportunities, Upward Mobility ) Rights (Human Rights, Civil Rights ) Rule of Law (Implementation of law ) Freedom of Press (News, Media ) Government Performance (Economy, Efficiency, Effectiveness ) Cultural Diversity (Inclusion of culture ) Maintaining of Culture (Tangible Culture, Intangible Culture ) Customs and Courtesies (Manners, Etiquette, civilized ) Pollution Level (Light Pollution, Waste Disposal, Water Pollution, Noise Pollution, Air Pollution...) Urban Planning (Sustainable Development...) Environmental Preservation (4P s...) Life Area (Housing Flat Area ) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 17

18 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross National Product (GNP) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the measurement of total market value of all final goods and services produced by all resident producing units of a country or an economic territory in a given period of time (A year, a quarter..) Measurement of GDP: (Formula = Output x Market Value Per Unit) Year 20X1 Output Market Value (Per Unit) Apple 100 units $5 Private Flats 10 units $1,000,000 The GDP of the region in year 20X1 is = 100x5 + 10x = $10,000,500 Year 20X2 Output Market Value (Per Unit) Apple 100 units $10 Private Flats 10 units $3,000,000 The GDP of the region in year 20X2 is = The above phenomenon comparing 20X1 and 20X2 has the same output but a different market value, so the GDP also increases. The limitation of Nominal GDP (above situation) is that the value is affected by the price of goods and services. Nominal GDP GDP evaluated at current market price (Price as the factor). The nominal GDP will include all of the changes in market prices that have occurred during the current year due to inflation or deflation. Real GDP GDP evaluated at the market price of a base year. Real GDP = Output of Current Year x Market Price of Base Year GDP Per Capita ( 人均生產總值 ): The amount of GDP calculated based on the population (Population as the factor). It is obtained by dividing the total GDP by the population of the region. GDP Per Capita = Total GDP / Total Population QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 18

19 Gross National Product (GNP) is the market value of all the goods and services produced in one year by labour and property supplied by the citizens of a country. GDP GNP The overall value The value only calculated with the contribution of local citizens GNP = GDP The value which is not contributed by the local citizens Performance of GDP in Hong Kong (2017) GDP Billion USD GDP per Capita USD GNP 90 Billion USD GDP Growth 3.7% Relationship between GDP and Economic Quality of Life Increase in GDP = Increase in Economic Transactions = People Buy more goods and services = Business people also produce more goods and services = Good Economy Increase slowly/constant/decrease in GDP = Decrease in Economic Transactions = People buy less goods and services = Business people produce less goods and services = Economy performance is not ideal QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 19

20 Unemployment and Underemployment Rate Unemployment Rate is the percentage of the unemployed population in the labour force. Unemployment Rate = (Unemployed Population / Labour Force) x 100% Unemployed Population = People who aged 15 or above, available for work, wants to have a work but does not have one. They have been finding a job. Labour Force = Aged 15 or above and Willing to Work E.g. Mary is 18 years old, she is studying in university and doesn t want to have a work -> Not in the labour force Unemployment Rate of Hong Kong in 2017 = 2.9% (Quite Low) Underemployment Rate ( 就業不足率 ) is the proportion of the underemployed in the labour force. Underemployed = Population that Involuntarily ( 非自願地 ) work less than 35 hours, implying that the population that work for a small period of time. However, they want to work for a longer period of time. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 20

21 The underemployment rate of Hong Kong in 2017 is around 1.1%. Relationship between Unemployment/Underemployment Rate and Economic Quality of Life Poor Economy = Companies tend to employ less workers in periods when economic conditions are poor = High unemployment rate Unemployed/underemployed person have no or low income, if they have no/low income, it will totally affect their living and quality of life so it can also reflect the effects towards quality of life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 21

22 Consumer Price Index Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the changes in the price level of consumer goods and services bought by general households. The consumer price measures different prices of things, examples such as Housing, Clothes, Foods, Transportation, Daily expenses Consumer Price Index of Hong Kong in 2017 is When there is a more than 2% growth in consumer price index, then it indicates inflation ( 通貨膨脹 ). When there is a high inflation rate, people will have low purchasing power because they have to pay more money to buy the same product, their Quality of life will be affected QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 22

23 Real Wage and Nominal Wage When you work, you will receive salary/wage ( 工資 ). That amount of money is called nominal wage ( 名義工資 ), the total value of currency obtained However, there is inflation in price level in the society (Consumer Price Index). As the price level increases, you may need to pay more so the wage is no longer fair enough. So there is a thing called the Real Wage ( 真實工資 ) in which the obtained is after discounting inflation. Real Wage x Price Level = Nominal Wage (Price Level = 1+Inflation %) Same growth rate of nominal wage and inflation = Unchanged in real wage Inflation> Nominal Wage Growth Wage = Decrease in real wage People will feel they have lower wage because they have lower purchasing power, and that will decrease the amount of goods and services -> Affecting Quality of Life Inflation Persistent increase in general price level (Increase in demand but decrease in supply -> Drive price up) Deflation Persistent decrease in general price level (Increase in supply but decrease in demand -> Drive price down) When the economy is good, salaries of workers increase because there are more economic activities that need to hire more people to work -> Demand of labour increases. Good Economy Salaries of Workers usually increase Increase of economic activities Companies hire more people to work Demand of Labour increases - Lead to increase salary Low unemployment rate Bad Economy Salaries of Workers usually decrease Decrease of economic activities Companies fire people Demand of Labour Decrease - Fire people, no money to employ people High unemployment rate QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 23

24 Poverty Poverty is the situation in which household/individual does not have enough money to meet basic needs including food, clothing and shelter. Elderlies Poverty Poverty N-noughts Intergenerational Poverty Working Poor M-shaped Society Poverty in Hong Kong: Population: 960,000 (14.3%) Since the Hong Kong government has put a lot of aids and subsidies policies on tackling with poverty, the poor population and poverty rate has start to decrease. It implies that the poverty situation in Hong Kong turns better. Poverty affects one person s quality of life in a huge extent. From the definition of poverty, it states that individuals do not have money to meet basic needs. They do not have money to buy for basic needs (material life) and that has already hugely damages quality of life as they cannot even fulfil their basic needs. If they cannot fulfil their basic needs, they can hardly fulfil their spiritual needs as they cannot have their esteem and as stated according to Maslow Hierarchy of Needs, you mostly cannot reach a higher layer if the lower layer is not met so if you cannot met the physiological need layer, you hardly reach the higher level. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 24

25 Disparity between the Rich and the Poor Disparity between the rich and the poor is the gap between the rich people/upper class and the poor people/lower class. Income Disparity ( 收入差距 ) is a situation in which there is an unequal distribution of income among population. For example, some people can have a higher income (Rich people) but some people have a lower income (poor people) Disparity between the rich and the poor does not only reflect the problem of poverty but also showing the gap and inequality between the rich and the poor. For example, in Africa, it is obvious that most people in rural areas are poor. However, in Hong Kong, not most people are poor, there are some people very rich in Hong Kong. People will feel very unfair that why rich people can have a better life but they can t, it may cause social instability and conflicts between different people in the society. In Hong Kong, the disparity between the rich and the poor is very serious. Hong Kong is a city with high GDP and GDP per capita, but why there are some people still living under poverty line? Disparity between the rich and the poor affects people s quality of life not only in material level but also anti-rich sentiment ( 反有錢人 ) and leading to social differentiation ( 社會分 化 ). QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 25

26 Gini Coefficient Gini-coefficient is the indicator that measures the disparity in income distribution and the disparity between the rich and the poor. It indicates the general distribution of income from households. If the income among all households are in the same level, the Gini coefficient will be zero. If all income of society goes to one household in which the income is controlled by that individual, the gini coefficient will be one. The value of gini-coefficient is only ranging from Perfect Equality Perfect Inequality 0.4 is the international alert line, the warning level. It turns serious when reaching 0.4 or above. There may be conflicts between different social strata and instability Gini Coefficient in Hong Kong In 2017, the gini coefficient of Hong Kong rises to QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 26

27 Median Income Median Income is a measurement of income of the unit in the middle of the group. (Median -> The middle one). For example: Find the median of the following households: Households A B C D E F G Income $3,000 $4,500 $6,000 $7,500 $10,000 $13,000 $20,000 The median which is the middle one (D) is the median income = $7,500 The Poverty Line ( 貧窮線 ) is set in the value of half of median income (X 1 st Quartile). The Poverty line is used to measure and analyse the poverty situation in Hong Kong. Median household income by decile group ( 按十等分組別劃分入息中位數 ) is the concept of all households arranged in ascending order of their monthly income, and then divide evenly into ten groups. Each group has the same number of households. The first group represents the lowest 10% and the tenth group represents the highest 10%. In each group, the median among each group is taken as the result, it can compare and understand the overall distribution of income in society and the disparity between the rich and the poor. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 27

28 Economic Transformation Economic Transformation is the transform and change in the economic base of the society. Stage 1 - A fishery village (Primary Industry) Before being the colony of U.K., Hong Kong is a tiny little village with its traditional economy of fishing, agriculture. Stage 2 - Entrepot ( s) U.K. takes Hong Kong as the colony due to its great victoria harbour, it has geographical benefits to be an entrepot to do trading in the world. Therefore, Hong Kong turns from a village to an entrepot, doing logistics. Stage 3 - Industrial Society (1950s-1980s) Hong Kong was being embargo during the Korean War and there is a huge labour force coming from mainland China which is beneficial for developing Industrial Factories Stage 4 - International Financial Centre (1980s-2010s) Due to China s reform and opening-up, factories move north to China and the huge flow of capital and the geographical advantage in the world make Hong Kong into an international financial centre Stage 5 - IT Industry (2010s to now) The Industrial Revolution 4.0 and the advancement of technology make Hong Kong developing IT industry and artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, STEM education make Hong Kong turning into IT industry QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 28

29 Externally-oriented Economy Externally-oriented Economy is an economy which depends heavily on external trade/external factors For example: Hong Kong heavily relies on external trade such as China, U.S.A.. if other countries failed, Hong Kong will also be affected Hong Kong is a small, open and highly externally-oriented economy. Hong Kong is doing business and transactions with other places in the world. So the economic situation of other places in the world can affect the Hong Kong economy. E.g. US Financial Tsunami in > Affect Hong Kong s economy China and USA are Hong Kong Economy s most important trading partner. Their economy might affect Hong Kong s economy (E.g. China-USA Trade War) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 29

30 Knowledge-based Economy (Talent and) Knowledge-based Economy is a type of economy that is produced mainly by industries that require knowledge, diploma, academic qualifications For example: Lawyer, Doctor, Teacher, Accountant, Dentist.. -> They all require knowledge and academic qualifications Hong Kong is a knowledge-based economy, people will need to have qualifications and academic degrees to work in professional careers in Hong Kong such as lawyer, accountant, businessmen Academic Inflation ( 學歷貶值 ) is a phenomenon in which there are more degrees provided such that the academic value has decreased due to more people getting the degree. It has a huge impact towards Hong Kong s knowledge-based Economy, more and more people are allowed to have a degree so the value of degree decreases. Some offensive trades ( 厭惡性行業 ) may not be done by people. But at the same time, the increase in amount of academic degree also fulfils the demand of Hong Kong s knowledge-based economy. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 30

31 4 Pillars and 6 Industries in Hong Kong The 4 Pillars and 6 Industries are the most important sectors contributing to Hong Kong s economy. The 4 Main Pillars of the Hong Kong Economy Tourism 旅遊 Contributing 5% GDP of Hong Kong, developing Hong Kong as an international city with many tourist sites and hotels for tourists Professional services and other producer services 專業服務及其他工商業支援服務 Such as teacher, lawyer, doctor, dentists.. These professional services require academic qualifications Financial Services 金融服務 Hong Kong is an international financial centre in which it is a place for doing businesses due to it s market economy Trading and Logistics 貿易及物流 Having an experience of being an entrepot before, Hong Kong has been capable or developing logistic industries such as the Kwai Tsing Cargo Pier QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 31

32 The 6 Industries of Hong Kong: Cultural and Creative Industries Advertising, amusement services, architecture, arts, antiques, crafts, cultural education, library, design, filming, performing arts, TV, radio, publishing. Education services Kindergartens, primary and secondary schools, tutorial schools, university, courses. Medical Services Private hospitals, clinic, dental, nursing, elderly care, medical products, medical insurances Environmental Industries Sewage and waste management, environmental engineering and consultancy, import/export and wholescale trading of waste and scrap Innovation and Technology Research and development activities undertaken by higher education and public research institutes, activities that further drive product Testing and certification services Technical testing and analysis; cargo inspection; sampling, weighting; medical and x-ray laboratories QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 32

33 Minimum Wage (Statutory) Minimum Wage is a labour policy that to ensure part-time workers have a minimum salary for their living. Preventing that their salary is being exploited by the boss. The Minimum Wage (Part-time) for Hong Kong 34.50HKD nowadays. Before 2011 May 1, there is NO minimum wage in Hong Kong. Interesting Facts Labour Holiday (1 st May) May Day (1 st May) is also known as the international labour day, it is a holiday for labours and workings to rest. And at the same time, all labour policies in Hong Kong will start turning effective on on after 1 st May every year. Therefore, the changing of the minimum wage turns effective on 1 st May. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 33

34 Equal Opportunities Equal Opportunities is the concept in which all human beings are born equally. No one is subjected to unair or poorer treatment due to their personal background or identity. It will be fair for citizens in the society that there are equal opportunities, no one should suffer from discrimination or inequality. The government has an effort in protecting people s equal opportunities. In Hong Kong, the government has set up the Equal Opportunities Commission ( 平等機會委員會 ) in It is set up to eliminate discrimination, promote the message of equal opportunities. Furthermore, to help the public to understand their rights and obligations of Hong Kong s anti-discrimination legislation and provide channels for people to compain and fight against discrimination. Promoting cultural diverisity and equality. The equal opportunities commission also implement ordinances which guarantee equal opportunities: Race Discrimination Bill The Sex Discrimination Ordinance The Family Status Discrmination Ordinance The Disability Discrimination ordinance QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 34

35 Social Mobility Social Mobility is the movement of different people within or between social strata in a society. ( 社會上不同人士於社會上不同的流動 ) [i.e. 可唔可以流動到去一個更好嘅生活水平 ] It can be upwards (Moving to a better situation) or downwards (Declining to a worser situation). Under social mobility, we can measure it in terms of earning mobility, educational mobility and occupational mobility. Problem of Lack of Social Mobility People cannot move upward to a better social status -> People maybe depressed to the society ( 人民不能向上流動, 對社會感到絕望 ) The individual should be able to climb up by themselves base on their effort, education, working performances instead of birth, socio-economic background, physical conditions. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 35

36 Earning Mobility Earning Mobility is the movement of an individual from one income group to another income group. An ability to improve their economic status. ( 人工收入流動至不同的收入群組 ) [i.e. 可唔可以流動 / 上升到一個更加高嘅收入群組?] Earning and Economics (Concept): Economic Growth -> Increase of Economic Activities -> Increase the size of the overall economic pie -> Increase salary -> Providing more opportunities for people moving up the earnings ladder Indicator: 1. Income, Salary, Wage 2. Price Level, Property Price. 3. Income and Outcome 4. Inflation and Deflation QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 36

37 Population Population M-shaped Society A M-shaped society is a social phenomenon in which there is a decreasing number of middle class population but an increasing number of the population in the rich class and the poor class. Implying that the disparity between the rich and the poor turns serious. Before 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Poor Middle Class Rich Level of Wealth After 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Poor Middle Class Rich Level of Wealth Hong Kong has actually turned into a M-shaped society with an increasing number of rich people and poor number and the decreasing number of the middle class. The middle class either becomes rich people or due to low social mobility, turning into poor people. Cross Module (Module 4 Globalization) Under globalization, rich become richer and poor become poorer. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 37

38 Healthcare Healthcare is the system in which the government provides medical, clinic, dental, health services to the citizens of the society. Reference: Healthcare system directly affects our quality of life, if you have a poor health, you cannot live longer and it damages your quality of life. A better healthcare system will increase our life expectancy which people can live longer and this improves people s quality of life. Cross Module: Module 5 Public Health QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 38

39 Social Welfare Social Welfare is a system provided by the government in which there is a provision of a minimal level of well-being and social support for citizens without current means to support basic needs. It is a type of financial aid/subsidy for citizens in poverty, so it can use to help citizens to support their basic needs and that will improve their quality of life. The social welfare is largely provided by the government from their tax income, and some from charity groups Examples of Social Welfare in Hong Kong: Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme ( 綜援 ) Social Security Allowance (SSA) Scheme ( 公共福利金計劃 ) Old Age Allowance ( 生果金 ) $1,345/month Old Age Living Allowance ( 長者生活津貼 ) $2,285/month (2015) Community Care Fund Traffic Accident Victims Assistance (TAVA) Scheme QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 39

40 Social Stability Social stability is the situation in which the society is stable, peaceful. Everybody is in their own role and paying their own responsibilities. There are less/no conflicts and argument between different people and strata. The quality of life is great and the society is stable and peaceful. However, there might be some factors affecting the social stability. This may cause social instability ( 社會不穩定 ) in which people and the society are not stable and not peaceful, there may be confrontations ( 衝突 ) and conflicts between different people. Some factors that affect social stability: Disparity between the rich and the poor The government credibility Disaster QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 40

41 Social Cohesion Social Cohesion is the capacity of a society to attract and integrate its members to realize specific social functions or achieve certain goals through collective behaviour. To connect the citizens of the society together. A good social cohesion can strengthen among different citizens in the society and their confidence in government policies. A poor social cohesion may cause social differentiation ( 社會分化 ) Social Inclusion ( 社會包容 ) is the act of making all groups of people within a society feel valued. To include and accept all people living in the society including the poor, the LGBT group, the ethnic minorities, disabilities Accept all their weaknesses and include them into the society. Social Inclusion and Social Cohesion will affect quality of life in a certain extent. If the society can get along well and everybody in the society can have their sense of belonging towards their ethnic, it can increase cooperation and good social atmosphere and a better quality of life. However, if there is lack of social inclusion and social cohesion, people with weaknesses cannot get along with the society, people in the society cannot be connected and it may cause conflicts and social differentiation, damaging quality of life. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 41

42 Social Justice and Equality Social Justice is a concept of fair and just relations between the individual and society. It consists of diverse values, the protection of personal autonomy, the emphasis of equality and the transparency of social policies. Social justice is necessary for maintaining social cohesion. The government must create an environment of equality to enhance social justice. Social Equality ( 平等 ) is a value of everybody being equal and the same, being equal in order to achieve equality. But social justice and equality are different: Social justice and social equality affect people s quality of life in a certain extent. It is hard to balance between equality and justice, both are important values. But justice is more important than equality. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 42

43 Rule of Law Rule of Law is a general concept of using law to restrict the power of the ruler so as to protect the rights and freedoms of the ruled. The society is ruled by a set of laws and restrictions, it is not ruled by people. The law judgements are based by laws. Definition from the United Nations: Rule of Law is a principle of governance in which all persons, institutions ( 機構 ) and entities ( 實體 ), public and private, including the state itself, are accountable ( 負責任 ) to laws that are publicly promulgated ( 頒布 ), equally enforced ( 強制執行 ) and independently adjudicated ( 裁決 ), and which are consistent( 一貫 ) with international human rights norms and standards. It requires, as well, measures to ensure adherence( 忠誠 ) to the principles of supremacy ( 至高無上 ; 最高地位 ) of law, equality before the law, accountability to the law, fairness in the application of the law, separation of powers, participation in decision-making, legal certainty, avoidance of arbitrariness( 隨意性 ) and procedural ( 程序 ) and legal transparency ( 透明度 ). 6 Main Principles of the Rule of Law: Everyone should know what laws they need to obey Laws should be the same for everyone We should always use laws, not just our own opinion of what seems right or wrong, to decide if someone has broken the law Judges, the police and members of the government must always use their powers fairly Everyone accused of breaking the law should have a fair trial. They should be treated as innocent until proved guilty Laws should always try to protect our human rights QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 43

44 Law ( 法律 ) is a system of rules that are created and enforced through social or governmental institutions to regulate behaviour. It is the highest principle in a society that upholds the rule of law. No one or authority can override the law, it has the highest supreme status. Law is under the concept of rule of law, it is used to restrain the power of the ruler( 統治者 ) and govern the behaviour of the ruled ( 被統治者 ). The ruler cannot abuse its power and amendment of laws must be found on public opinion. Laws must protect human rights and freedom of the ruled, protect and govern all people in the society on an equal basis. It upholds social justice, protect rights of ruled and respecting the values of the ruled. Equality before the law is very important, everybody no matter you are the chief executive, the rich people or the poor people should be treated equally. The authorities should carry out this idea and that the rights and freedoms will be better protected. Government enacts the law People observe the law Rights, freedom and values are being protected and respected Rule of Law Rule by law ( 以法統治 ) is the concept that power is not restricted by laws, it only rules with laws. The society must strictly observe laws but rights and freedoms may not be protected. Rule of man ( 人治 ) is the concept that the power and the ruling is totally free from any restriction, the ruler can abuse its power and decide everything. Importance of rule of law to Hong Kong: Development of the society, operation of the government and international status Set a legal framework and a set of procedures for the pursuit of justice Ensure policies have received extensive public consultation before implementation Monitor the government Establish a fair business environment QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 44

45 Human Rights Human Rights are the rights inherent to all human beings without distinction of any kind such as race, sex, colour, religion, language and national origin. Everyone has the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And also, people have different rights such as political, social, economical rights. Human rights are very important for human beings and citizens of the society, it stress the importance of upholding human dignity ( 尊嚴 ) and value for everyone. People in the society will treasure lives, respect freedom and accept differences with respect for human rights, it will improve their quality of life by leading to social harmony and stability. Human rights are under protection of laws such as the Declaration of Human Rights (1948), different conventions Countries that are bound by conventions must ensure the rights and freedoms of the citizens are being protected. Human Rights Civil Rights ( 公民權利 ) Most Fundamental Right - Universal Rights enjoy by virtue of citizenship agree - Human Right Declaration in in a particular nation/state 1948 after WWII Protect citizens from discrimination Include right to life, right to and grant certain freedoms education, protection from torture, Thought of as the agreement free expression, fair trial between nation/state/individual Every place in the world agrees the citizens that they govern right Not every place in the world agrees the right Human rights are universal but civil rights are not, civil rights are regional. Exercising civil right can influence the government and improve their policy making and governance effectiveness - Solve the problem of dictatorship Restriction for human rights: Rights to freedom can be restricted if a person has been convicted of a crime and sentenced to prison QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 45

46 Freedom of the Press Freedom of the Press is the freedom of communication and expression through mediums including various electronic media and published materials, telling the fact through the news. Whenever such freedom mostly implies the absence of interference ( 干擾 ) from the power of the government, its preservation may be done legal protections. Importance of Press Freedom: 1. Enables the right to know and the right to tell 2. It can prevent the abuse of power with media monitor the government and big companies, monitoring circumstances Reasons affecting freedom of press to the media 1. Politically: Government attitude towards media 2. Economically: Actions of some commercial activities Helps monitor government policy and administration and spot out the unseen problems in the society to raise awareness of government and general public. - Solve the problem of dictatorship form of government QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 46

47 Government Performance Government Performance is the performance and work completed by the government, indicating the quality of the government. There is a 3E indicator that measures the performance of the government, according to International Experience. 3 E s Economy The resources allocation and usage, the economy of the region Efficiency The ratio of resource input to production output, use less time and working fast Effectiveness Whether the policy works and goals are attained, workable, effective or not High effectiveness can tackle the key issue and achieve remarkable results, solves the problem quickly and the government can successfully solve the problem. High efficiency is the situation that the government achieves greater output than a government of low eficiency with the same input of resources. As the government has the power and responsibility to maintain social stability and implement policies, it has a huge impact towards quality of life. If the government has a great performance in which there is a high effectiveness, high efficiency and a good economy, social problems can be solved and that will improve people s quality of life. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 47

48 Cultural Diversity Cultural Diversity is the quality of diverse or different culture. In a society, there are lots of culture mixing together producing multi-culture (cultural diversity). As culture can vary into aspects, cultural diversity can be made up with different items: Ethnic Groups Food Culture Chinese and Western Culture Moral and Logics Etc. Hong Kong is a society with cultural diversity: Old and New Culture (Old Hong Kong (Colonial Culture) V.S. Modern Culture) Eastern and Western Culture (Eastern Culture from China, western culture from the colonial period of U.K.) Ethnic Minorities: South-east Asian, Pakistanis, Parsees, Chinese. A rich cultural life can satisfy and increase people s spiritual quality of life. For example, you can eat more foods from different places, you can broaden your horizons and enrich yourself by understanding different culture. And that will improve your quality of life in a certain extent. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 48

49 Cultural Inheritance Cultural Inheritance is the continuation and further development of a culture. It is use to promote culture to the next generation about the history, culture and that will increase their sense of belonging to the region. Hong Kong culture is very unique, it is a diverse between Western and Eastern Culture. Cultural inheritance is very important, if we can inherit culture, then the future generations and the citizens can enjoy the culture and broaden their horizons. And that will improve their spiritual quality of life. If the culture cannot be inherited to future generations, they will enjoy and experience less culture which they may not be able to improve their spiritual quality of life. In Hong Kong, some culture has been inherited quite well: Food culture (E.g. Egg Tarts, Dai Pai Dong ) Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance New Year Festival QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 49

50 Cultural Heritage and Declared Monument Cultural Heritage ( 文化遺產 ) is a thing (architecture/object/other things) that has a period of history and shows a culture of a region. Cultural heritage can be different things such as architecture (Western Market), object (Lion Head), festivities (Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance), food (Egg Tarts), activities (Chinese Opera), festivals (Tuen Ng Festival) Declared Monument ( 法定古蹟 ) is listed by Antiquities and Monuments Office ( 古物古蹟 辦事處 ), listing out some famous historical and cultural architectures in Hong Kong. Examples: Western Market, The Cenotaph, Tin Hau Temple, Hong Kong observatory Through cultural heritages and declared monument, people can learn more about culture and history of Hong Kong and it can be one of the spot for their visit in holidays. It can increase their spiritual quality of life by understanding more about culture and history and increase their sense of belongings to Hong Kong. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 50

51 Conservation Conservation is an act from the government and the people to conserve and protect a place/heritage/culture. It is a protection of heritages (E.g. monuments, cultures, sites) with high historical, cultural, ecological, artistic values, preserve their original look and values for the future generation. The purpose of conservation is to prevent the disappearance of culture and hoping to continue the culture by protecting and conserving them. It can use to inherit culture and enhance social and economic development Some conservation projects in Hong Kong: Shek Kip Mei Estate Queen s Pier Lui Seng Chun Conservation can help protect the heritage, preventing it from disappearance. Without disappearance of culture, the future generations can also experience and understand more about Hong Kong culture and that will increase their cultural/spiritual quality of life and their sense of belongings to Hong Kong. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 51

52 Urban Renewal and the 4R Strategy Urban Renewal ( 市區重建 ) A program on redeveloping the city/place Solving urban problems especially for Urban Decay Rebuilt and renew the city to turn from old to new The 4R Strategy for Urban Renewal Revitalization 活化 Redevelopment 重建 Rehabilitation 復修 preservation 保育 Retain and renew the building for new land use Preserve historical linkage 保留及更新用途 Pull down the old buildings and build new ones 拆毀及起新樓 Improve the built environment of old buildings Reduce the need for immediate redevelopment 改進舊樓 Preserve buildings with historical, cultural and architectural value Retain the local color and character of different districts 保留建築物歷史文化價值 E.g. Western Market, Burrows Street E.g. K11, ihome E.g. Urban Renwal Authority Housings E.g. 和昌大押 (Wan Chai Tennant Houses) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 52

53 Population Density Population Density is the ratio of how many people to one square kilometre. The population cannot prove a lot of things, but the area of land to the ratio of the population can prove how packed the city is. Calculation for Population Density = Total Population / Area of Land A high population density = The place is very packed with a lot of people A low population density = The place is not packed with people Population of Hong Kong (2018) = 7,436,147 Area of Land in Hong Kong = 1104 km2 Population Density of Hong Kong = 7,436,147 / 1104 = people/km2 Population Density has a huge impact towards Quality of Life. Hong Kong is hilly with limited flat land. There is only a little land that is suitable for the construction of building. A high population density implies that people living packed together, living packed together may cause conflicts, arguments and houses may need to build up and it may cause environmental impacts towards quality of life. Kwun Tong is the most densely population district in Hong Kong. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 53

54 Urbanization Urbanization is the process of an increase in percentage of urban population. A phenomenon turning rural area into urban area. Hong Kong is a highly urbanized city (Experienced a lot on urbanization). Due to the fact that Hong Kong has lack of land and a high population density, rural areas are required to turn into urban area to provide more land and for the population needs. More land needs to be developed due to industrial development (1950s) and residential needs (Nowadays). New Towns in Hong Kong are developed due to urbanization. Mainly in the New Territories and Islands such as Sha Tin, Tai Po, Tuen Mun, Tung Chung.. These newly developed towns just developed in around 1980s. Metropolitanization ( 全面都市化 ) is the process in which the whole city needs to be a metropolis (urbanized). So in old streets and cultural places such as Temple Street, Apliu Street, they are invaded by large shopping malls and high-rise buildings, these culture and local characteristics are fading. Urbanization can improve quality of life in a certain extent, increase more land can fulfil the population needs. However, high-densed buildings and more people may cause environmental impacts and Metropolitanization may cause decline of cultural quality of life. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 54

55 Heat Island Effect Heat Island Effect is the effect/phenomenon in which there is an increase in the temperature of the urban areas, there is a higher temperature in urban area than rural area, making the area into a heat island. Heat Island is caused by urbanization, high-rise buildings were built due to urbanization and there are fewer green and water areas. Causing the temperature increases in the region. Heat Island Effect is usually evident at night and winter, urban buildings absorb heat during daytime which is then released at night. In this situation, heat cannot be released, and the urban temperature rises. In rural areas, there are fewer buildings and heat can be released by the absorption of plants, so the temperature is lower. In such case, there will be a difference between urban temperature and rural temperature, it will give to a rise on heat island effect. Heat Island Effects our quality of life, as the urban temperature increases, it will increase global warming and living in hot areas may cause public health diseases and affecting people s quality of life due to the increasing temperature. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 55

56 Wall Effect The Wall Effect is the phenomenon in which light and air ventilation are blocked due to the group of buildings being built side by side. It is directly caused by the extensive construction of walled buildings ( 屏風樓 ). Wall effect is mainly caused by the limited land supply in Hong Kong. As Hong Kong has less land, more buildings need to be built and built packed together. At the same time building high with more than 35 storey on average. In such case, many high and tall buildings are concentrated in a district, very packed and caused walled buildings. There is insufficient distance between buildings and buildings with more than 35 storeys. Wall effect damages people s quality of life, it will affect the landscape and brightness of the district, affect the scenic and spiritual quality of life (E.g. Causeway Bay). As well, it lead to heat island effect which increases temperature and it worsen air pollution. Different diseases may caused due to poor air quality such as asthma, respiratory diseases Six Main Indicators of Walled Buildings: Insufficient distance between buildings Buildings with more than 35 storeys Buildings arranged almost linearly Buildings located at a site of significance (E.g. Harbour) The broader side of the building being exposed to the prevailing wind The presence of short buildings nearby QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 56

57 Usurpation of Public Space Usurpation of Public Space is the situation which public spaces have been occupied or cancelled for other purpose, causing lesser public spaces for citizens to enjoy. Public Space ( 公共空間 ) is a place/area that the general public has the right to access without paying any fees. Public spaces include parks, open grounds, streets, governmental buildings... It can be accessed universally no matter you sex, age, nationality. Public spaces can let the public rest, gather and develop local culture. Enhancing social cohesion ( 社會凝聚力 ) In Hong Kong, the government has auctioned a large amount of open spaces to private contractors for commercial purposes. So the public space become privatized ( 私有化 ), there are less public spaces for the public. The privatized spaces such as shopping mall may restrict people gathering inside or taking photographs, it affects citizen s freedom and affects their quality of life. Furthermore, usurpation of public spaces takes away public spaces, there are less places for people to rest, gather and develop local culture such as street performances. In such case, it will affect people s quality of life in a certain extent. Example: Time Square (Causeway Bay) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 57

58 Pollution Pollution is a major concern in Hong Kong, it affects people s quality of life in a certain extent. Common Types of Pollutions: Noise Pollution (Traffic Noise, Construction Noise), it can be measured by sound level (db) Land Pollution (Municipal Solid Waste 都市固體廢物, construction and chemical waste, it can be measured by total volume of municipal solid waste. The solid waste disposal policy has reduced solid waste in Hong Kong) Water Pollution (Beach, sea, river water pollution, it can be measured by water quality, benchmarks... Water pollution in Hong Kong is quite serious) Air pollution (Gas polluted by vehicles, smog, factories. It can be measured by the general air pollution index API and roadside API Light Pollution (Pollution caused by light and reflection of light beam) [2014 DSE Paper 2 Question 3] Pollution will damage quality of life in a certain extent. Different pollutions will pollute harmful substances which will affect people s health such as carbon dioxide leading to some diseases and affect people s life expectancy and that will damage people s quality of life. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 58

59 Sustainable Development Sustainable Development is the concept of how to continue and sustain the society. Wise use of (the limited) resources Meet the needs of present and future generations Improve people s quality of life without exceeding the limitation of resources Sustainable Development = Balance of Social Aspect + Economic Aspect + Environmental Aspect Environment ( 環境 ) The nature, natural atmosphere Biodiversity, green life Society ( 社會 ) Human living and contact with each other Community Economy ( 經濟 ) The development of a society Market and business Resources distribution Sustainable Development will improve people s quality of life in a certain extent. As the society can sustain and continue, the future generations can be able to survive so it has already directly guaranteed the basic quality of life. As well, a good economy, stable society and green environment can also increase people s quality of life. Cross Module: Module 6 Energy, Technology and the Environment QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 59

60 Nature Conservation Policy Nature conservation policy are policies in Hong Kong to protect the environment and improve environmental quality. Conservation is required for protection. It is a way of utilizing the environment based on the principle of maintaining biodiversity and preserving natural resources Aim of Hong Kong s nature conservation policy is to regulate, protect and manage natural resources that are important for the conservation of biological diversity of Hong Kong in a sustainable manner, for the benefit and enjoyment of the present and future generations of the community. There are 12 priority sites in Hong Kong for enhanced conservation in its nature conservation policy. This policy is designated for country parks, special, marine parks, coastal protection areas, conservation areas Nature conservation policy affects people s quality of life, it can protect the environment and biodiversity, leading to sustainable development and improves people s quality of life. People can be able to visit but not to damage these natural sites. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 60

61 Factors affecting the decision of ranking of Quality of Life In our life, we need to make decisions (Opportunity Cost). We need to rank the priority for decision making to maintain Hong Kong citizen s quality of life. For example: The government is planning the land-use of the Fanling Golf Club: 1 st Priority: Build Public Housing 2 nd Priority: Build a commercial district 3 rd Priority: Remain the recreational purpose In the above case, what is the opportunity cost of building public housing in Fanling Golf Club? According to the rule of economics, the first priority is the option that we valued the most. However, the cost for option forgone also needs to be paid such as if we build public houses, where can the rich people play golf? Here are some of the common factors that affect the decision of options of the government: Public Concern Some people may concern and care about something. (E.g. environmental sectors concern environmental issues, economic sector concerns about the market). Different social issues emerge at different time. Some people may concern the environment more but some people may concern housing more. Consideration of Costs and Benefits Majorly considering the financial of the issue. Are there enough resources to carry out the plan? Are there economic benefits gained from this plan? Benefits can be separated into short-term benefits and long-term benefits. The government is responsible to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of carrying out the plan by consideration of costs and benefits and it might affect government s decision. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 61

62 Socio-political Participation In Hong Kong, there are protests, strikes different types of socio-political participation which it s purpose from the citizens is to stress and request on an issue. People will express their demands during these socio-political participations. For example, people strike to cancel P.3 TSA, increase salary Due to this socio-political participation, people express their demands and needs and it might affect government s decision. Resources Allocation In each year February, there is a financial budget plan ( 財政預算案 ). It will state the plan of the resources allocation, how much money distributed in a certain area. Therefore, the resources allocation from the government will affect it s decision making. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 62

63 QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 63

64 Obstacles for maintaining Quality of Life We need different resources to implement policies that can improve our quality of life. Resources are needed to be mobilized for implementing and execute policies. If there are enough resources, the policy can cover more aspect and benefit more people that can improve more in quality of life. Resources are the main obstacles for maintaining quality of life, where can we get the resources? Natural Resources Land for supply, energy resources, raw materials, foods, geographical location, import and exports Human Resources Humans, peoples, government, labour force, human resources, population and structure Financial Resources Money, revenues, reserves, taxation, cash liquidity, economy Technology is also one of the obstacles in maintaining quality of life. Technology can improve people s quality of life, for example entertainment, medical technology, agriculture, commercial, communication However, Hong Kong s technology level is lagging behind comparing to other countries such as Singapore, South Korea The poor technology level becomes one of the obstacles in maintaining quality of life. QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 64

65 Resources and Mobilization of Resources Resources ( 資源 ) is a source or supply from which a benefit is produced. There are different kinds of resources such as financial resources, natural resources, human resources We need different resources to implement policies that can improve our quality of life. Resources are needed to be mobilized for implementing and execute policies. If there are enough resources, the policy can cover more aspect and benefit more people that can improve more in quality of life. The 3 Major Type of Resources: Natural Resources Land for supply, energy resources, raw materials, foods, geographical location, import and exports Human Resources Humans, peoples, government, labour force, human resources, population and structure Financial Resources Money, revenues, reserves, taxation, cash liquidity, economy QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 65

66 Evaluation of Hong Kong s Quality of Life According to CUHK Quality of Life Index The economic performance of Hong Kong has sharply declined from in 2002 to in 2017 for around 41.7% Reasons for decline: Unaffordability of housing High rental index Increase in unemployment rate QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 66

67 The social performance of hong kong has increase gradually from in 2002 to in 2017 which has increased for 10.6%. Reasons for a better social performance: Decrease in overall crime rate Increase in enrolment rate for academic programmes Improve in government performance QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 67

68 The cultural performance of Hong Kong has increased gradually from in 2002 to in 2017 which increased for 32.8% Reasons for a better cultural and leisure performance: Increase in recreational and sports activities participation Improve in overseas travel times QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 68

69 The environmental performance of Hong Kong has gradually improved from in 2002 to in 2017 which has increased for 23.5%. Reasons of improve in environmental quality of life: Better water quality Less noise QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 69

70 Hong Kong Today - Basic Facts of Hong Kong Full Name: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR - 香港特別行政區 ) China - People s Republic of China ( 中華人民共和國 ) Population: Around 7,400,000 Area of Land: 1, sq. km Official Language: Traditional Chinese ( 繁體中文 ), English Ethnic Majority: Ethnic Chinese (93.6%) Religion: Freedom of Religion Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) Human Development Index (HDI): (Ranked 12th in the whole world) Gross Domestic Product (GDP): $320,900,000,000 USD Chief Executive: Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor Chief Secretary for Administration ( 政務司司長 ): Matthew Cheung Kin-chung ( 張建 宗 ) Financial Secretary ( 財政司司長 ): Paul Chan Mo-po ( 陳茂波 ) Secretary of Justice ( 律政司司長 ): Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah ( 鄭若驊 ) Economy of Hong Kong: Market/Mixed Economy, Externally-oriented economy Major Industry in Hong Kong: (Tertiary and Service Industry) Finance, Professional Services, Logistics, IT, Tourism Handover of soverignity of Hong Kong July 1st QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 70

71 Hong Kong Flag Red in color -> Chinese celebration Bauhinia -> Symbolism of soverignity of Hong Kong 5 stars in the bauhinia -> Representing the 5 stars shown on the China Flag China Flag Red in color -> Revolution Big Star -> The Communist Party ( 共 產黨 ) Remaining 4 stars -> Working Class ( 工人階級 ), Peasentry ( 農民階級 ), Urban Petite Bourgeoisie ( 城市小資 產階級 ), National Bourgeoisie ( 民族 資產階級 ) Relationship between Hong Kong and China According to Article 1, The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China. ( 香港特別行政區是中華人民共 和國不可分離的部分 ) In terms of geography, Hong Kong is one part of China In terms of history, Hong Kong is a part of the Chinese History QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 71

72 Hong Kong History and Development Hong Kong Island was being invaded by the United Kingdom The Qing Government signed the Treaty of Nanjing ( 南京條約 ) with the British Empire, agreeing to cede Hong Kong Island to the United Kingdom Henry Pottinger ( 砵甸乍 )became the first governor of Hong Kong Hong Kong turns in major economic pie form primary industry to entrepot and logistics The Qing Government signed the Convention of Beijing ( 北京條約 ) that ceded Kowloon Peninsula ( 九龍半島 ) to the United Kingdom The first gas company is established in Hong Kong (Towngas) 煤氣公司 1870s - The first hospital is established in Hong Kong from Tung Wah Hospital ( 東華 三院 ) The first electric company is established in Hong Kong (Hong Kong Electric Company 港燈 ) The Third Pandemic of Bubonic Plague ( 鼠疫 ) broke out in Hong Kong (Tai Ping Shan) The Qing Government signed the Convention for the extension of Hong Kong Territory ( 展拓香港界址專條 ), leased the New Territories to the United Kingdom for 99 years The Hong Kong University (HKU 香港大學 ) is established Xinhai Revolution ( 辛亥革命 ) broke out in China, it turns to the Republic of China ( 中華民國 ) Canton-Hong Kong Strike ( 省港大罷工 ) Marco Polo Bridge Incident ( 七七盧溝橋事變 ), WWII (Asia) broke out Hong Kong was invaded by Japan for 3 years and 8 months ( 日治香港 ) Japan surrendered and Hong Kong s soverignity went back to the United Kingdom Civil War of China ( 國共內戰 ) broke out The People s Republic of China ( 中華人民共和國 ) was established in Beijing, China 1950s - The Industrial Society arise in Hong Kong, developing different factories and secondary industry China s Great Leap Forward lead to hunger ( 大躍進, 大飢荒 ) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 72

73 1960s - Secondary Industry continue to be wisely developed in Hong Kong The Cultural Revolution ( 文化大革命 ) broke out in China Hong Kong 1967 Leftist Riot broke out ( 六七暴動 ) Hong Kong Flu (H3N2) broke out Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC 廉政公署 ) was established Deng Xiaoping proposed China s reform and opening-up ( 中國改革開 放 ),factories move to China, Hong Kong changes to be International Financial Centre Margaret Thatcher( 戴卓爾夫人 ) discussed with the PRC government for Hong Kong s future development after the handover in 1997 ( 香港前途問題 ) Margaret Thatcher and Zhao Zi-yang signed the Sino-British Joint Declaration ( 中英聯合聲明 ), confirmed that New Territories and Kowloon Peninsula + Hong Kong Island will be all handovered back to China in Stock Market Crash in Hong Kong ( 八七股災 ) Tiananmen Square Protests broke out in Beijing, China ( 六四事件 ) The Basic Law was formally promulgated ( 頒佈基本法 ) by the NPC, together with the designs for the flag and emblem of the HKSAR The last governor of Hong Kong - Chris Patten ( 彭定康 ), proposed the political reform resolution ( 政改方案 ) The legislative council passed with Chris Patten s political reform resolution but it is disagreed by the Chinese government. At last, the resolution is being rejected The handover ceremony of Hong Kong sovereignty is held in the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre ( 香港主權移交 ) China resumed the the sovereignty of Hong Kong from the United Kingdom, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region ( 香港特別行政區 ) of the the People s Republic of China was established Asian Financial Crisis broke out ( 亞洲金融風暴 ) The Hong Kong International Airport in Chek Lap Kok was built The First Interpretation of Law from the Chinese Government ( 人大第一次 釋法 ) China joined World Trade Organization (WTO) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 73

74 Tung Chee-hwa ( 董建華 ) was elected to be continue being the Chief Executive SARS ( 沙士 ) broke out in Hong Kong China and Hong Kong signed CEPA More than 500,000 people joined the 7.1 Protest Donald Tsang ( 曾蔭權 ) became the Chief Executive of Hong Kong Hong Kong Disneyland was built Demolition of Star Ferry Pier ( 拆毀天星碼頭 ( 皇后像碼頭 ) Financial Tsunami broke out in the U.S. ( 金融海嘯 ) Flu Pandemic (H1N1) broke out in Hong Kong Electoral Reform ( 政改方案 ) th chief executive election, CY Leung was elected to be the chief executive Lamma Ferry Collision The Umbrella Revolution, Occupying Central Drinking Water Contamination ( 鉛水事件 ) Mongkok Civil Unrest ( 旺角暴動 ) Legislator oath-taking controversy + explanation of law by PRC ( 立法會宣誓 風波 ) th chief executive election, Carrie Lam was elected to be the Chief Executive, 20th anniversary for Hong Kong returning back to China Tai Po Bus Accident The Public Consultation for land supply starts ( 土地大辯論 ) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 74

75 Economy of Hong Kong Today ( ) Hong Kong s GDP Performance from 1997 to 2018 Time (Period) Event Performance 1997 Hong Kong soverignity return back to China Asian Financial Crisis broke out in Thailand and affect the currency of Asia including HK housing policy causing decrease in housing price Attack in the U.S., affecting the global economy 2001 Dec. China enters WTO (World Trade Organization) 2003 SARS epidemic break out in Hong Kong 2003 China and Hong Kong signed CEPA 2008 Global Financial Tsunami occured in the U.S. affecting the global economy Hong Kong Economy turns stable, competing with other markets and countries (E.g. Singapore) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 75

76 Geographical Characteristics of Hong Kong Total Area of Hong Kong: 2755 km2 Total Land Area of Hong Kong: 1106 km2 Total Water Area of Hong Kong: 1649km2 Total Population (Estimated 2017): 7,409,800 From the above information, calculate the population density of Hong Kong: From the contour map, what can you conclude about the geographical characteristics of Hong Kong? What are the geographical benefits of Hong Kong in the world? QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 76

77 QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 77

78 百搭論點 - 香港地理特徵 - 香港土地問題 (Geographical Characteristics of HK) Hong Kong is a city with many hills but less land ( 山多平地少 ) Evidence: More than 75% are rural areas (non-built-up land) Around 60% of land in Hong Kong cannot be developed/exploited There are only 4.6% -> Implying that Hong Kong is not favourable for primary industry Vegetated Area cover about 78% of the land area of Hong Kong Only less than 7% of land in Hong Kong are residential land use Only 2.3% of land in Hong Kong are Open-spaces, it reflects there are not enough open spaces in Hong Kong The Population Density of Hong Kong is very high as it has less land but a huge population QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 78

79 Common Issues in Hong Kong related to Quality of Life Issue Poverty Increasing land supply Health, hospital and medical expenses Tomorrow Lantau Housing Problem Local Traditional Industries Aging Population Education Individual Visit Scheme Infrastructure Project Human Rights and Equality Pollution Problems Sports Development Using countryside park Government efficiency Transportation Energy Policy Major Aspect Economic, Social Economic, Social, Political, Cultural, Environmental Economic, Social Economic, Social, Environmental Economic, Social Economic, Cultural Economic, Social Social Economic, Social, Cultural Economic, Social, Environmental Political, Social Social, Environmental Social, Cultural Environmental, Economic Political Environmental, Social Economic, Social, Environmental QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 79

80 Skill Questions related to Quality of Life Past Examination Records of Questions that are DIRERTLY related to quality of life: Year Paper No. Question Marks a How may sustainable development help to improve people s quality of life in China? Explain your answer c Expressing demands through processions and demonstrations helps to improve the quality of life of Hong Kong people. To what extent do you agree with this view? Explain your answer with reference to the sources and your own knowledge a Evaluate the impact of night lighting on the quality of life of Hong Kong people. Justify your answer b Source A claims that standard working hours is essential to the improvement of the quality of life of Hong Kong people. To what extent do you agree with this claim? Explain your answer c Urban farming will improve the quality of life of people in Hong Kong. Explain how the sources support this claim a Based on the source, compare the levels of happiness in Singapore and Hong Kong, and compare the patterns of satisfaction with quality of life in these two places b Based on the source, explain which two dimensions of quality of life in Hong Kong should be given priority for enhancement in order to raise the level of happiness in Hong Kong. For each dimension you have mentioned, suggest and explain one way by which the satisfaction with quality of life in that dimension could be enhanced in Hong Kong QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 80

81 a In what ways might the modernisation of traditional wet markets as described in the source improve the quality of life of people in Hong Kong? Explain your answer a Explain the possible impact of the spread of antimicrobial resistance on quality of life. 8 8 What can you observe from the past examination records about questions directly related to quality of life? Usually carries 8 marks or more -> High mark value question Usually appears in paper 2 but also in paper 1 It appears directly almost every year except 2012 Skill observed How will these questions usually be tested as shown from the past examination records? Explain how..lead to To what extent do you agree/disagree Impact How the sources support the view Trend Description Raise Suggestions Common question asking type of direct asking of quality of life:..improve the quality of life of.. Evaluate/explain the possible impacts of quality of life Dimensions of quality of life ***Quality of life question is very essential, 連直接問法每年都考, 可見 quality of life is very very very important!!!*** QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 81

82 LS Hub will divine the question type into the following: Paper 1 (Data-response Question) Mark Value Value Type 0-3 Usually there are NO 0-3 marks questions in LS and it hasn t appear before in DSE past records 4-5 (5 or below) Low-mark Value Question 6-7 Medium-mark Value Question 8 or above High-mark Value Question Paper 2 (Extended-response Question) Mark Value Value Type 8 Low-mark value question 10 Medium-mark value question 12 High-mark value question **In different papers, different mark value type question, we have different handling methods Quality of Life Question Paper 1 High-mark value Question Paper 1 High-mark value Question -> Consists of 8 or more marks For 8 or more marks question, your essay should have an introduction, body and a conclusion. For introduction, body and conclusion, you should mention about quality of life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 82

83 In each main point about Quality of Life: Steps: 1. Firstly/Secondly/Thirdly, 2. The (viewpoint) will (affect) (aspect) of quality of life. 3. General Description 4. State the view point 5. Explain how the view point with affect quality of life 6. Raise examples 7. Match the example with your view point and quality of life 8. Conclusion Framework Firstly/Secondly/Thirdly, (Viewpoint) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. (General (View point) will lead to (connector x2-5) and it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. For example, (raise actual examples). From that, it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life by (Match example with view point and quality of life). Therefore/In conclusion, (issue) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. Topic Sentence Firstly/Secondly/Thirdly ( 標示語 ), (Viewpoint) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. (affect) Improve Damage Affect Have a positive impact Have a negative impact (aspect) Social Economical Environmental Political Cultural Quality of Life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 83

84 A general description [ XXX will lead to/affect (aspect) quality of life] E.g. Unemployment will damage economic quality of life. The two-child policy will affect social quality of life in a certain extent. Air pollution will damage environmental quality of life. Increase in government credibility will improve political quality of life. State the narrowed view point. Second Part Explain how the view point affect quality of life (Viewpoint) is the situation of (conceptualization of view point define). Then will (next), and that will (next) such that will (next) and finally affecting people s quality of life by affecting them in terms of (e.g. health) (how affect health). Use 2-5 connectors to connect how the viewpoint will affect quality of life, the process requires detailed explanation. E.g. Explain how lack of housing affect quality of life. Lack of housing means that there are not enough housing for people to live (conceptualization + cause), then people may not be available to live in houses (connector), no houses means that they may need to live in the streets (connector) such that it will affect their quality of life in terms of mental life, as they will most likely have low self-esteem (Causation (Leading to.)) and it will damage their spiritual quality of life. Key Framework 1. Fact 2. Connection 3. Quality of Life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 84

85 Raising Examples Your examples should be: Relevant Explanatory Related and affected to Quality of Life Relate to the situation of the question Happens in Hong Kong (If applicable) Apart from only raising examples, you should also connect between your example and quality of life, link the relationship between them up. Matching Examples to Quality of Life Match the example and connect the relationship with Quality of Life Match the example with your written point Matching to Quality of Life by using the Quality of Life Framework Conceptualization Quality of Life Individuals level of satisfaction in relation to the different aspects of their lives People s satisfaction towards material life and spiritual life General well being of individuals and society Conclusion From the above, you can see that (view point) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. Basically, restate topic sentence and with respect to the relations to quality of life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 85

86 Structure of Quality of Life Essay Point Remarks: If the mark value is 8 or above, you should include an introduction and a conclusion. If the mark value is below 8, it is not necessary. The following is an 8-mark essay structure. (SHORT INTRODUCTION) Firstly, (Viewpoint) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. (General Description@Conceptualization). (View point) will lead to (connector x2-5) and it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. For example, (raise actual examples). From that, it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life by (Match example with view point and quality of life). Therefore/In conclusion, (issue) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. Secondly, (Viewpoint) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. (General Description@Conceptualization). (View point) will lead to (connector x2-5) and it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. For example, (raise actual examples). From that, it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life by (Match example with view point and quality of life). Therefore/In conclusion, (issue) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. Thirdly, (Viewpoint) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. (General Description@Conceptualization). (View point) will lead to (connector x2-5) and it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. For example, (raise actual QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 86

87 examples). From that, it will (affect) (aspect) quality of life by (Match example with view point and quality of life). Therefore/In conclusion, (issue) will (affect) (aspect) quality of life. In conclusion, (issue) of (viewpoint 1), (viewpoint 2), (viewpoint 3) are factors/impacts/others (affecting) quality of life. Paragraph Structure (8 marks or above) Paragraph 1 Introduction Paragraph 2 Conceptualization Defining Quality of Life and the background of the issue Paragraph 3 Viewpoint 1 Paragraph 4 Viewpoint 2 Paragraph 5 Viewpoint 3 (If need more viewpoints, add more paragraph) Paragraph 6 Conclusion Paragraph Structure (8 marks below) Paragraph 1 Conceptualization Defining Quality of Life and the background of the issue Paragraph 2 Viewpoint 1 Paragraph 3 Viewpoint 2 QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 87

88 Achieving 5** - Variety of Aspects As quality of life covers a lot of aspects, your aspects of viewpoints should cover different variety. You should not only cover a single type of variety, you should cover different types of varieties to prove your multi-angle thinking. First Type of Aspect: Social/Economical/Political/Cultural/Environmental ( 社經政文環 ) Second Type of Aspect: Material V.S. Spiritual, Objective V.S. Subjective QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 88

89 Type I Type II Type III Social Economical Political Material Subjective Quality of Life Cultural Spiritual Objective Environmental For example, your essay can write the following view points: 1. Economic + Material Quality of Life ($$) 2. Political + Spiritual Quality of Life (Socio-political Participation) 3. Environmental + Objective Quality of Life (Air pollution index) State the impacts of housing problem: 1. Economic + Material Quality of Life (Government Expenses) 2. Social + Spiritual Quality of Life (Affecting personal self-esteem) 3. Environmental + Objective Quality of Life (Wall effect due to high-densed buildings) From the above, you can see all the viewpoints are coming from different aspects and types, this can show your wide variety. Try this, state the factors leading to lack of social mobility: Apart from the above type, you can also think about stakeholders and areas: Individual Aspect Social Aspect Hong Kong China Global Situation (Globalization) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 89

90 Achieving 5** Content 6-7 marks questions, you should include at least 2 viewpoints/arguments 8-9 marks questions, you should include at least 3 viewpoints/arguments marks questions, you should include at least 4 viewpoints/arguments 12 marks questions, you should include at least 5 viewpoints/arguments Huge variety aspects of quality of life is required, you should include different types and aspects of quality of life In-depth explanation and elaboration 1. Clear Topic Sentence 2. Explanation 3. Raise examples as evidence 4. Connect your explanation and examples to quality of life Conceptualization Define Quality of Life Define and briefly introduce Issue Background Use types/aspects of quality of life to conceptualize your viewpoint Use terms/a singular sentence to conceptualize your arguments Structure 8 marks or above questions, you should include an introduction and a conclusion to state/restate your point of view Separate into paragraphs, clear structure and coherence Use connectives, labelling words (Firstly, secondly ), coherent English language QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 90

91 Example Practice of Connecting Points with Quality of Life Relationship between Quality of Life and the Third Runway Economical Brings huge economic benefits Economic Net Present Value (ENPV) increases from $591 billion to $1046 billion and that will increase economic activities and GDP of Hong Kong such that it increases economic quality of life More tourists are allowed to reach Hong Kong and it will lead to a rise in tourism industry, increase tourism economic activities (e.g. Hotels, catering) + Airport construction fee also costing tourists, increase the development of the tourism industry and economic quality of life Increase employment opportunities Create 123,000 direct jobs and 165,000 indirect/induced jobs, as well constructions jobs. A total of 427,000 employment opportunities. People can be employed and maintaining low unemployment rate, increasing economic quality of life Better economic development in logistic and transportation industries Reduce the capacity of the current two runways and it s Economical saturation ( 飽和 ). Increase number of flights that can be handled Increase passenger and cargo traffic capacity Enhance Hong Kong s logistic capacity, boost development of logistics industry in Hong Kong, increase economic quality of life Maintain economic competitiveness As the airport is challenged by Singapore, Shenzhen, increase in capacity and sustain the development and maintain long-term economic competitiveness Construction Cost is huge The construction cost is around $141 billion Airport construction fee is required on each departing citizen/tourist, increase burden on citizens and negative impression to tourists, decrease money and decrease material (economic) quality of life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 91

92 Frequent delays and overruns Quite common in Hong Kong, large infrastructure projects have frequent delays and overrun in money Drain government financial resources that can be allocated in other expenses such as social welfare -> Worsen expenses (economic) and quality of life Low cost-effectiveness ( 成本效益 ) Different stakeholders challenged the cost-effectiveness of the third runway By calculating and involving the opportunity cost, the third runway has low cost-effectiveness By comparing with the third runway in Guangzhou Airport, it s capacity only increases 15% which is lower than expectation of 50%, challenges it s cost-effectiveness Low cost-effectiveness, worsen economic quality of life Social Development of different workers Developing 78% skillful workers, workers can be trained to be skilled and that lead to the upward of social mobility and that also increases in social quality of life A 22% non-skillful workers employment opportunities can help citizens with lower education level to get a decent income, increases their social (material) quality of life Better Transportation Network Tourists and citizens can easily access to the airport Developing a better transportation network, tourist/citizens can have more opportunities to travel, increase social quality of life Social Discontent/Social Instability Many citizens think that the government should focus on tackling other major urban problems in Hong Kong such as housing, social welfare, poverty. Should not waste money on these large infrastructures These large-scale projects are often being criticized as White Elephant Projects 大白象工程, it is useless and waste a huge amount of money, people feel discontent with the society and lead to social discontent which decreases social quality of life Environmental A green airport plan QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 92

93 Carbon and energy reduction, water conservation, air quality -> Less air/water pollution Waste management, green building design, makes environment better Looks environmental friendly, it is a green airport, increases environmental quality of life Good Reclamation Method DCM Method of Reclamation used sustainable method to increase the stiffness of the mud and allows and stable foundation More stable structure for a build of aurport, can be used for long-term Using the infrastructure for a long-term is environmentally sustainable and increase quality of life Minimizing Environmental Impacts The Green Airport Plan minimizes environmental impacts Limitation of traffic to control air pollution Restricting speed to control emission of gas Reduce Air Emissions by banning idling vehicles engines on the airside Reduce aircraft noice under 3Rs operation, reduce the noise pollution Reducing pollution impact increases environmental quality of life Impacts of pollution Air pollution from more and more flights (i.e. 4% Carbon dioxide..) as the third runway was built, enhanced the greenhouse effect. Air quality turns back and it affects the environmental quality of life. Reclamation of the project takes up an extremely large footprint and will seriously worsen air pollution, affect environmental quality of life Light pollution, the new runway requires to build more aircraft traffic lights, enhanced light pollution Sound pollution, the new runway makes more and more flight arriving to Hong Kong, more landing of aircraft creates more sound pollution and it damages environmental quality of life Impacts to the nature Reclamation causes water pollution and it is affecting the marine habitat Affecting the lives of the Chinese White Dolphins QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 93

94 It has a great damage to the marine ecology of the Chinese White Dolphins Chinese white dolphins are endangered species and they may extinct. Waste and misuse of resources A large amount of resources were used to promote the need for the third runway Stakeholders involved in the construction/consultation of the Third Runway The Public / Local Citizens The Public have different views towards the construction: Citizens living in Lantau may suffer from different pollution, affect their quality of living. Less marine area affect their beautiful scenic of the coast Local citizens that always travel out of town maybe beneficial as there are more flights. More flights may decrease the price of air tickets and that is beneficial for citizens travelling to outer places The Airport construction fee increases financial burden for travel Government Airport Authority Environmental Organizations The Government supports the construction of the Third Runway The government hopes to complete the transportation network and solve the pressure of the current two runway system The government hopes the third runway to raise the competitiveness of Hong Kong The government hopes the third runway and the airport to support the Hong Kong-Macau-Zhuhai bridge The Airport Authority supports the construction of the Third Runway The airport hopes the third runway to solve the current pressure and the capacity of the two runways The airport hopes the third runway to raise the competitiveness among all other airports in Asia The Environmental Organization opposes the constructions of the third runway The construction of the third runway lead to different pollutions that harm the environment such as air pollution, light pollution, sound pollution The construction of the third runway and reclamation of land for the runway affect the habitat of the Chinese White Dolphins that may cause them extinct and harm to the marine habitat QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 94

95 Citizens living in Lantau Business Sectors The Citizens living in Lantau have different views towards the construction of the third runway If citizens or new employees of the third runway live in Lantau, then they can easily access to their working location which is socially sustainable The reclamation lead to air, light, sound pollution that affect the quality of living of citizens in Lantau The reclamation of the third runway affect the marine scenic and there may be less open and coastal area for citizens to enjoy The Business Sectors generally support the construction of the third runway Airline companies support the third runway as it will lead to more demand of flights that can increase and expand their aviation business Reclamation and construction lead to the employment and business for the construction business sectors A to B Relationship You have to know how to connect the relationship from the original point to quality of life: A (Point) Quality of Life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 95

96 Example Practice 1 Connecting Points with Quality of Life Housing Problems Quality of Life Characteristics of Housing Problems Lack of land in Hong Kong, land of housing where people don t have a shelter -> Queue for public housing is long High land price, private flats are very expensive, hardly affordable Small living area Characteristics of Quality of Life Individuals level of satisfaction in relation to the different aspects of their lives People s satisfaction towards material life and spiritual life General well being of individuals and society Stakeholder 1: Government We need to search for small places and use methods to increase land supply such as reclamation Stakeholder 2: People waiting for public housing Stakeholder 3: Business sectors Quick! We want to get into public housing as fast as possible We can drive up the housing price in hong kong in order to earn more profit Aspect 1: Social and material Aspect 2: Environmental Aspect 3: Economic Aspect 4: Spiritual People waiting for long-time for public housing, they need to pay a lot of rent for renting a house, decrease $, decrease material quality of life The government has to do reclamation to increase land supply which damages the marine habitat of sea creatures in hong kong which will deteriorate environmental quality of life Housing price is hardly affordable for individuals, they may not have the economic support to rent/buy housings, it damages economic quality of life People live in sub-divided flats live packed together, it may cause conflicts between one another and damages interpersonal relationship. Hence, spiritual quality of life QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 96

97 Practice 1 Connecting Points with Quality of Life Primary 3 - TSA Quality of Life Characteristics of TSA Characteristics of Quality of Life Stakeholder 1: Stakeholder 2: Stakeholder 3: Aspect 1: Aspect 2: Aspect 3: Aspect 4: QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 97

98 Practice 2 Connecting Points with Quality of Life Construction of Airport Third Runway Characteristics of Third Runway Quality of Life Characteristics of Quality of Life Stakeholder 1: Stakeholder 2: Stakeholder 3: Aspect 1: Aspect 2: Aspect 3: Aspect 4: QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 98

99 Practice 3 Connecting Points with Quality of Life Universal Retirement Scheme Quality of Life Characteristics of Universal Retirement Scheme Characteristics of Quality of Life Stakeholder 1: Stakeholder 2: Stakeholder 3: Aspect 1: Aspect 2: Aspect 3: Aspect 4: QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 99

100 Practice 4 Connecting Points with Quality of Life Urban Renewal Project Tai Kwun Quality of Life Characteristics of Tai Kwun Urban Renewal Characteristics of Quality of Life Stakeholder 1: Stakeholder 2: Stakeholder 3: Aspect 1: Aspect 2: Aspect 3: Aspect 4: QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 100

101 Practice 5 Connecting Points with Quality of Life Increase subsidy in Old Age Allowance Quality of Life Characteristics of OAA Characteristics of Quality of Life Stakeholder 1: Stakeholder 2: Stakeholder 3: Aspect 1: Aspect 2: Aspect 3: Aspect 4: QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 101

102 LS HUB HONG KONG DIPLOMA OF SECONDARY EDUCATION EXAMINATION (MODULE 2) PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS X HONG KONG TODAY ~ QUALITY OF LIFE (1) LIBERAL STUDIES PAPER 1 2 Hours This paper must be answered in English (1) This paper consists of three questions. Answer ALL questions. (2) The Question-Answer Book is inserted into this Question Paper. Write your answers in the spaces provided in the Question-Answer Book. Answers written in this Question Paper will NOT be marked. (3) Do not write in the margins. Answers written in the margins will not be marked. (4) After the announcement of the start of the examination, you should first write your Candidate Number in the space provided on Page 1 of the Question- Answer Book and stick barcode labels in the spaces provided on Pages 1, 3 and 5. (5) Supplementary answer sheets will be supplied on request. Write your Candidate Number, mark in the question number box and stick a barcode label on each sheet, and fasten them with string INSIDE the Question-Answer Book. (6) No extra time will be given to candidates or sticking on the barcode labels or filling in the question number boxes after the Time is up announcement. (7) Candidates are reminded that this subject emphasises the ability to present and support points of view in a clear, concise and logical manner, rather than the ability to recall facts. Not to be taken away before the end of the examination session QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 102

103 Data-response Question 1. Consider the following sources: Source A: The unemployment rate of Hong Kong among different age group from 1997 to 2017 Age Group Year or above Overall % 2.8% 1.6% 1.7% 2.2% 1.0% 2.2% % 8.2% 5.4% 6.7% 8.2% 5.0% 7.3% % 4.6% 2.9% 3.5% 4.6% 2.5% 4.0% % 5.3% 2.4% 2.8% 2.9% 2.0% 3.1% % 5.7% 2.2% 2.5% 2.9% 2.2% 2.9% Source B: An abstract from a newspaper report dated 10 September 2015 More Hongkongers aged 15 to 24 killed themselves last year, with suicide prevention workers pointing to the exorbitant cost of housing, the lack of social mobility and a negative perception of young people in society. Social worker Eddie Wong Lok-man said a 14-year-old youth had once sought his help because he saw no future in Hong Kong even if he studied hard and went to university. "He told me his biggest worry was that he would never be able to afford a home, and he said he needed to start planning even at his age," he said. "Many [young people] think getting into local universities means nothing unless one can get into the top three. They see tertiary education more as getting into a huge debt than achieving social mobility. The latest government statistics show university graduates in the city last year earned just HK$1,800, or 20 per cent, more than their predecessors of 20 years ago, lagging far behind inflation and property prices over the same period. Young people have also been cast in a dim light since the Occupy movement last year. The term fai cing, meaning "useless youth" in Cantonese, has been popularised by opponents of the hard-core young supporters of the pro-democracy movement. Such terms would only reinforce misunderstandings within society, said the centre's director, Professor Paul Yip Siu-fai. (a) Describe the trend of the unemployment rate of Hong Kong from 1997 to 2012 as shown in source A. (4 marks) (b) With reference to the sources, explain how lack of social mobility harms teenager s personal development. (5 marks) (c) The lack of social mobility in Hong Kong is a more important factor damaging teenager s quality of life than teenager s attitude and personal characteristics. Do you agree with this view? Explain your answer. (8 marks) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 103

104 2. Consider the following sources: Source A: Land-use Distribution in Hong Kong Source B: An abstract from a newspaper report dated 9 May 2018 Wong pointed out the club had been subsidising the golf course s operations. For example, every year the club spends more than HK$7 million to sponsor the Hong Kong Open tournaments, which bring in championship players and thousands of spectators. He stressed that the Fanling course was the only one in Hong Kong suitable for hosting international competitions. The golf club has contributed a lot to the development of golf. Why would someone want to destroy this place and all our efforts over all these years? There are many ways to resolve Hong Kong people s housing needs. There is no need to place the golf course in an antagonistic position with the housing issue, he lamented. Source C: An abstract from a newspaper report dated 9 May 2018 My stance is very clear. Now the whole society needs to squeeze land everywhere by whatever means to cope with the dire housing shortage. We even target narrow vacant space between buildings. When everybody is paying a price for this problem, it is unreasonable that the course won t make any compromise, he said. Playing golf takes up a lot of land. I personally think it s a waste of land resources. Besides, a lot of pesticides are used to maintain the grass, which can damage the overall environment, (a) With reference to source A and your own knowledge, what is the major reason of lack of land supply in Hong Kong? Explain your answer. (4 marks) (b) The Fanling Golf Club should be demolished in order to provide more land supply in Hong Kong. To what extent do you agree with this view? Justify your answer with reference to the sources. (8 marks) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 104

105 3. Consider the following sources: Source A: An abstract from a newspaper report dated 8 May 2017 Hongkongers have some of the unhealthiest shopping habits compared with other consumers around the world, a new Greenpeace survey revealed. It s nothing new that Hong Kong people are addicted to shopping, but we didn t think that Hong Kong would rank as one of the tops in the world, Greenpeace campaigner Bonnie Tang Man-lam said. Most Hongkongers said their feelings of satisfaction from shopping only lasted a day, and they would then shop again just to fill that empty void. The more they shop, the lonelier they get. Greenpeace said the results showed it was time for Hongkongers to reflect carefully on their shopping habits and differentiate what they needed from what they wanted. Source B: An abstract from a newspaper report dated 2 November 2017 That was what a university study found after interviewing 2,474 secondary school pupils from 20 city schools in an attempt to learn about the moral character and social behaviour of teenagers. Our society is too materialistic and neglects the development of the whole person, Shek said. Materialism is a characteristic in Hong Kong society, said Shek, who co-authored the study and is also the chairman of the Family Council, a board that advises officials on family affairs. Shek claimed the concept of money is not everything but we can do nothing without money was widely accepted by many people in Hong Kong. Not only did the pupils display signs of materialism, but also showed distrust towards the government and political parties, according to the study interviewing teenagers in junior and senior levels between January and July this year. (a) With reference to the sources, what are the values reflected on the consumption behaviour of Hong Kong people? Explain your answer. (4 marks) (b) With reference to the sources, identify and explain TWO causes leading to the unhealthiest shopping habits among teenagers in Hong Kong. (6 marks) (c) Living in a materialistic society does not improve quality of life of Hong Kong citizens. Explain how the sources support this view. (7 marks) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 105

106 LS HUB HONG KONG DIPLOMA OF SECONDARY EDUCATION EXAMINATION (MODULE 2) PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS X HONG KONG TODAY ~ QUALITY OF LIFE (1) LIBERAL STUDIES PAPER 2 1 ¼ Hours This paper must be answered in English (1) This paper consists of three questions. Answer ONE question only. (2) Write your answers in the Answer Book provided. (3) Candidates are reminded that this subject emphasises the ability to present and support points of view in a clear, concise and logical manner, rather than the ability to recall facts. Not to be taken away before the end of the examination session QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 106

107 Extended-response Question Answer one question only. 1. Consider the following source: An extract from a newspaper report dated 11 March 2016 Central district councillors on Thursday united in bashing the government s plan to introduce electronic road pricing in the neighbourhood, saying the policy by itself could not ease chronic road congestion and pollution in Hong Kong s core business district. They argued the government should instead prioritise confronting problems such as rampant illegal parking and the lack of parking spaces. Liberal Party councillor Joseph Chan Ho-lim, representing the Peak constituency, said the root cause of traffic jams in Central was widespread double-parking in key arteries such as Queen s Road Central and Chater Road. Right now, the problem of severe congestion in Central is not about more cars or fewer cars coming to Central. The problem is the cars in Central don t move at all, said Chan. Why the cars don t move? It s because of illegal parking... parts of the roads are always blocked. (a) What are the conflicts between stakeholders in the establishment of electronic road pricing? Explain your answer. (8 marks) (b) Evaluate the effectiveness of implementing electronic road pricing in central business district in Hong Kong. (12 marks) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 107

108 2. Consider the following sources: Source A: An abstract from a newspaper report dated 1 August 2018 To say that Hong Kong s construction industry is the world s most vibrant is not an overstatement. But we are also one of the world s most wasteful societies. The impact of construction waste produced by the city is enormous, as reported in this newspaper recently. Over the past decade, a staggering HK$7.6 billion has been spent in disposing of such waste that could have been reused for reclamation and building projects. That the issue has not been widely discussed in society does not mean it is unimportant. As we do not often come across construction waste in our daily life, we tend to think that the problem does not exist or has been taken care of. But the truth is that we are incurring massive costs by sending the waste across the border for reclamation instead of putting it to good use ourselves. Source B: The Map of Landfills and Fill Facilities in Hong Kong (a) What are the difficulties of the government to manage solid waste disposal in Hong Kong? Explain your answer. (8 marks) (b) To improve the quality of life of Hong Kong citizen s, the Hong Kong government should build more landfills in Hong Kong. To what extent do you agree with this view? Explain your answer. (12 marks) QUALITY OF LIFE NOTES LS HUB 108