UTOPIA 6 MINUTE ENGLISH

 

WATCH THE VIDEO AND ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS

1. Introduction:

   • What is the topic of this BBC Learning English program?
   • How does Rob describe the concept of utopia?
2. 
   

3. Happiness Question:

   • According to the 2020 United Nations World Happiness Report, which country is considered the world's happiest?
   • What factors contribute to the happiness of the mentioned country?
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5. Amsterdam's Sustainability Efforts:

   • How is Amsterdam using the concept of a ring doughnut as a model for sustainability?
   • Explain the idea behind the 'ring doughnut' and how it relates to Amsterdam's goals.
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7. Kate Raworth's Perspective:

   • According to economist Kate Raworth, what is the 21st Century prosperity for humanity, as described in the 'ring doughnut' concept?
   • How is Amsterdam trying to fit into the 'doughnut' approach in terms of its city development?
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9. Mindset Change:

   • How does changing the mindset affect the way Amsterdam builds and approaches sustainability?
   • Why does the program emphasize the need for people to start asking very different questions?
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11. Recycled Jeans and Doughnut Economy:

    • Describe the process mentioned in the transcript where old jeans are mixed with new organic cotton to make new ones.
    • According to Bert van Son, CEO of Mud Jeans, how does working within the doughnut model impact the making of jeans?
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13. Humanity and Doughnut Economy:

    • How does Bert van Son define the importance of being "human" in the context of making clothing?
    • What elements does he believe are necessary, beyond just being a person, to make 'nice' jeans?
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15. Happiest Country Recap:

    • Which two countries are mentioned as the top two in the 2020 United Nations World Happiness Report?
    • What are some factors contributing to Finland being named the happiest country for three consecutive years?
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17. Vocabulary Recap: Define The terms discussed in the vocabulary recap, including utopia, thriving, inclusive, mindset, mistreat, and social security.

KEY

1. Introduction:

   • Answer: The topic of this BBC Learning English program is utopia. Rob describes utopia as a perfect world where everyone lives together in harmony.

   Happiness Question:

   • Answer: According to the 2020 United Nations World Happiness Report, Finland is considered the world's happiest country. Factors contributing to its happiness include social support, income, life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.

   Amsterdam's Sustainability Efforts:

   • Answer: Amsterdam is using the concept of a ring doughnut as a model for sustainability. The 'ring doughnut' is about not leaving anyone in the hole in the middle (lacking essentials) while not going beyond the outer ring to avoid putting too much pressure on the planet.

   Kate Raworth's Perspective:

   • Answer: According to Kate Raworth, the 'ring doughnut' represents the 21st Century prosperity for humanity. Amsterdam aims to be a thriving, inclusive, and regenerative city for all residents, respecting planetary boundaries.

   Mindset Change:

   • Answer: Changing the mindset affects how Amsterdam builds and approaches sustainability by prioritizing the reuse of existing construction materials, questioning outdated economic mindsets, and encouraging different approaches to transportation.

   Recycled Jeans and Doughnut Economy:

   • Answer: Old jeans are mixed with new organic cotton to make new ones, reducing cotton production and the use of chemicals and water. Bert van Son, CEO of Mud Jeans, sees the benefit of the doughnut economy in treating people fairly and with respect.

   Humanity and Doughnut Economy:

   • Answer: Bert van Son defines the importance of being "human" in making clothing by emphasizing fair treatment, social security, liberty, and medical care for those involved in the production process.

   Happiest Country Recap:

   • Answer: The top two countries in the 2020 United Nations World Happiness Report are Finland (1st) and Denmark (2nd). Factors contributing to Finland's happiness include social support, a healthy life expectancy, and freedom to make life choices.

   Vocabulary Recap:

   • Answer:

   • Utopia: A perfect place where everyone lives together in harmony.

   • Thriving: Growing and successful.

   • Inclusive: Including everyone and treating them equally.

   • Mindset: Fixed thoughts and attitudes someone has.

   • Mistreat: To treat someone badly or cruelly.

   • Social Security: A payment system by governments that helps people live a reasonable life.