As we cross the threshold into the next century, human society is beginning its move from the industrial economy into the knowledge-based economy. In more specific terms, the application of information to the economy is best exemplified in the networking of communication, or the so-called Net economy. This net refers to the computer network of satellites, optic fibers, cables and telephone lines that connect the whole world. With the click of a mouse, information from the other end of the globe will be transported to your computer screen at the dizzying speed of seven-and-half times around the earth per second. Generally, there are two aspects of the Net. One is the networking between businesses and their customers. The other is the networking between individual businesses, or the regional and even global networking between industrial production and scientific research. Internet shopping belongs to the first aspect.

From a long-term perspective, Internet shopping is but a low-level aspect of the Net, and it is not likely to become the most important trend. After all, most merchandise is unsuitable for Internet shopping. Besides, if everyone shops on the Net, what will happen to the hundreds and thousands of shopping malls? Therefore, the second aspect of the Net will be more important. Its significance goes beyond that of connecting businesses. There have been reports of simultaneous consultation of doctors from all over the world on the Internet. These are early examples of high-level networking

It is estimated that the new synergy between computers and Net technology will have significant influence on the industry of the future. The sheer power of electronic commerce (e-commerce) will change the face of trade dramatically. Sporting Goods Company Puma was on the verge of bankruptcy back in 1992. From 1993, Puma began to diffuse its production, logistics and marketing divisions to 80 Net enterprises worldwide, and the results were spectacular. Puma was transformed from a sickly feline into a magnificent beast. The reason for this transformation is that intra-and inter-business electronic links greatly increase the efficiency of production, planning, the collecting of information and data exchange. As the business is rapidly being rationalized, production figures go up while costs come down.

The development of e-commerce may well bring the world into a brand-new era of electronic currency. With the emergence of a phantom electronic currency, every one of us would be affected. At the moment, developed areas in Europe, the United States and Asia have already started studying the possibility of an electronic currency. Electronic currency is not only about currency. It refers to an entire finance system of the world.

44. In what way will e-commerce change trade?

A.      It’ll change those companies that verge on bankruptcy to prosperity

B.      It’ll enhance the popularity both of the company and of its products

C.      It’ll increase the sales volume

D.     It’ll promote information exchange and production efficiency

45. With the development of the net 

A.      Man travels around the earth at a faster speed than ever before

B.      Industrial economy will be as much promoted as the net economy

C.      Low-level networking will be completely given over to high-level networking.

D.     There will be closer links between industrial production and scientific research

46. Which one of the following statements is true about electronic currency?

A.      It has already been in wide use in developed countries

B.      A kind of phantom e-currency has been circulated

C.      It is more than a currency

D.     Its feasibility has been proved in some developed areas

47. What’s the author’s tone in writing about net economy?

A.      Doubtful

B.      Critical

C.      Neutral

D.     Satirical