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Speaking Out: Issues and Controversies 各抒己见 is an advanced Chinese language textbook that explores topics such as human nature, moral values, mass consumption, Western influences, and technological innovation. In presenting subjects that reflect major concerns in contemporary China, the book invites students to reflect upon the forces shaping modern Chinese society. This textbook presents ten lessons in five units entitled'Constancy and Change,''Joy and Sorrow,''Right and Wrong,''Chinese Tradition and Western Influence,'and'New and Old.'These pairs of opposites conjure up an ever-changing world of ebb and flow, a world that stimulates learners'imaginations and arouses their enthusiasm for open dialogue and lively discussion. Concise in language and with lessons in both simplified and traditional characters, the textbook is a valuable aid for university students interested in passing the HSK Level VI or attaining ACTFL advanced-level proficiency. Accompanying audio recordings can be found online at www.routledge.com/9780367902704.

What makes a disease real? Why is it that patients with chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia are doubted when they say they are in pain, and cannot access the same benefits of patient-hood that others can? What defines the limits of our belief and, ultimately, compassion, when it comes to disease? These are the questions approached in this book, which draws upon patients'experiences and situates them among a diverse set of literatures, from the history and philosophy of medicine to the sociology of health and disease. The question of a patient's identity and their understanding of disease is often assumed to emerge from their relationship with healthcare, but the case is made here that other, inter-personal factors are more salient. What a patient with a contested illness comes up against is not simply a medical categorisation – it is a prevailing notion of disease across society, and one they struggle to assimilate themselves into. Contested Illness in Context will appeal to students and researchers interested in fields such as the history and philosophy of medicine, the sociology of health and illness, medical anthropology, or disease and illness generally. It may also interest patients and doctors who struggle with difficult medical cases.

This new and extended edition of Chinese: An Essential Grammar is an up-to-date and concise reference guide to modern Chinese (Mandarin) grammar.Refreshingly jargon-free, it presents an accessible description of the language, focusing on the real patterns of use today. This Grammar aims to serve as a reference source for the learner and user of Chinese, irrespective of level, setting out the complexities of the language in short, readable sections.It is ideal either for independent study or for students in schools, colleges, universities and adult classes of all types.Features include: Three new chapters on speech habits, writing conventions and new lexicalisation processes Chinese characters, as well as the pinyin romanisation, alongside all examples Literal and colloquial translations into English to illustrate language points Detailed contents list and index for easy access to information A glossary of grammatical terms.