Information Related to "In the News Apr/Jun 2006"
| Audio/Video |
Your
Ears Will Thank You!
Today's iPods are the neotechnological version
of the now ancient Sony Walkman. Both are compact, both provide personal
listening experience, but there they differ. The iPod product by Apple
uses digital technology to create a nearly flawless sound, undistorted
at any decibel level. It also employs earbuds—essentially an in-ear
version of the older headphones.
This, however, has experts worried.
An article by Joel Selvin explains that the dangers of too much music at too loud a decibel level have become a concern as the quality in personal listening devices have advanced (San Francisco Chronicle , "Play It Loud, and You May Pay for It," Sept. 22, 2005).
The problem is in the way the sound is introduced to the eardrum. With earbud type devices that focus all sound directly into the ear canal and at the eardrum, the hearing damage is much greater. The high quality sound can also make it difficult for listeners to realize just how loud the music is.
Research suggests that taking a break five minutes out of every hour allows for the ear to rest and repair. Also, "if you can hear headphones two or three feet away, it's probably too loud," says audiologist Douglas Beck.
Like anything else, personal responsibility is essential. The technology is incredible, but the human beings using it are subject to error from time to time, so it is important to remember that our bodies are the temple of God and need to be treated with respect and appreciation. So use iPod-like devices responsibly, and from time to time cherish the sounds of silence.
Feminine Dress: Tight Enough and Loose Enough . . .
Ever heard of Audrey Hepburn? Grace Kelly? Not so long ago they were
the epitome of modest femininity. Is there an equivalent today? Britney
Spears? Well, no, she doesn't exactly exemplify modesty, and neither
do Madonna or Lindsay Lohan for that matter. So where are the examples
and icons of modesty and loveliness in dress for young women and girls
to follow today? The sad truth is that there aren't very many.
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