This article analyzes the president Barack Obama’s budget proposal for 2013, in the light of 2012 presidential election campaigns, in United States. Discusses the criticism on president economic and reform policies. Brings into focus the our legislative process and hurdles in the implementation of president’s agenda.
This article analyzes the candidacy of Barack Obama, the incumbent president of United States and projected Democratic party candidate for 2012 presidential elections. It has an special emphasis on middle class taxes, payroll tax cuts extension, and the current state of start-up and early stage small business financing in America.
This article analyzes the job growth and economy, in the light of current presidential election campaigns. Adds a historical perspective to recent decline in U.S. productivity. Discusses in detail, how big corporations are thwarting small businesses, start-ups and early stage businesses, by cutting off the financing and other critical resources,to these businesses.
This article focuses on U.S. drug prohibition laws, their pros and cons, cost, results and future, in the light of 2012 presidential race in United States. Analyzes the history of drug prohibition in United Sates, with special emphasis on their success and failures.
This article analyzes the recent developments in U.S. politics, regarding presidential elections 2012, after the victory of Newt Gingrich in South Carolina Republican primary. Discusses the most popular arguments forwarded by leading candidates in this race. Focuses on jobs and economy.
This video is the fourth in a series on U.S. healthcare and immigration reforms, their need, urgency, roadblocks, cost and consequences. Provides a historical perspective to the issue and gives it a scholastic touch. Analyzes the positive and negative roles played by immigrants in United States.
This video performs a detailed analysis of the need, hurdles and different views regarding comprehensive healthcare and immigration reforms. Analyses these very important issues in the light of political interests, national security, and economy and financial problems, country is facing.
This video is the second in a series on Healthcare and Immigration Reforms in United States, in the light of election campaigns for 2012 presidential elections. Performs a bipartisan analysis of needs for reforms, different proposals and solutions, and the healthcare reforms under Obama and Democratic government.
This video analyzes the Republican primaries in Iowa and New Hampshire, and discusses the possible outcomes in South Carolina, and Florida, as well. Brings into focus the possible implications of these results on general, congressional, Senate and House races, and presidential elections, this year.
This video analyzes the Republican nomination process for 2012 presidential elections. Discusses, in detail, the 2008 and 2009 bailouts. Explores the constitutionality and legality of bailout for the world’s largest and richest corporations. Examines the taxation in United States.
This video is the third in a series that analyzes the Republican nomination process and Democratic party. Brings into focus the candidates like Ron Paul, Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich. Compares them with incumbent president and potential Democratic party nominee Barack Obama.
This video is the second in series evaluating the nomination of presidential candidate in Republican party, and as a whole. Evaluates the current front runners like Ron Paul, Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney. Discusses their chances against incumbent president and democratic party nominee Barack Obama.
This video analyzes, in detail, Republican nomination process for presidential elections in 2012. Gives a look to the whole process, candidates, ups and downs, potential winners and the ultimate 2012 presidential race. Evaluates, Romney, Newt, Paul and Santorum, in particular.
This video is second in a series on possible match ups between Ron Paul, Republican congressman and Barack Obama, Democratic party nominee and incumbent president of United States, and Newt Gingrich, former Republican Speaker of House of Representatives and Barack Obama.
This video is the third in a series on possible match ups between Republican congressman Ron Paul, and incumbent president and democratic party nominee Barack Obama, and between former speaker of United States House of Representative Newt Gingrich and Barack Obama.
This is third article in a series, analyzing the candidacy of Barack Obama, Democrat and incumbent, in 2012 elections for president of United States. It discusses, in detail, the circumstances he took office in, his agenda for 2008 elections, and his accomplishments and achievements.
This video analyzes the potential match ups for president in 2012, between Republican party nominee Congressman Ron Paul or former speaker of House Of Representatives of United States, Newt Gingrich, and incumbent president and Democratic candidate Barack Obama.
This video is the part two of an analysis on potential match up between Newt Gingrich of Republican party and Barack Obama, Incumbent president and Democratic party candidate. It discusses in detail unemployment, economy, debt, deficit and 2008 financial crisis.
This article analyzes, in detail, the ideology, program, personality, politics and agenda of new front runner, in Republican race for president, in 2012, Ron Paul. Discusses in detail the U.S. economy, finances, budgets, corporate lobbies and welfare, and corporate bailouts.
This article analyses the the Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and other entitlement and welfare programs, their problems, causes of these problems, and proposed and possible solutions.
This article highlights the fact that current economic, financial, political, information and influence issues are far more complicated then the way they are presented and dubbed by popular media and some politicians, sold out to corporate lobbies. It emphasizes that the substance and real solutions are way more important then some popular slogans, now, then ever.
This video covers a very wide range of currently hot political topics. Starts with the discussion on drop out of Herman Cain from 2012 Republican political race. Broadens down to U.S. politics and taxation. Brings into focus and compares the federal taxes and taxes in various Republican and Democratic states. Covers different forms of taxes like income tax, consumption tax, property tax, car tax and capital gains taxes.
This article provides a detailed, in-depth and neutral analysis on Newt Gingrich and his candidacy for presidential elections in 2012. Discusses his political agenda and election manifesto. Brings into lime light his personality, and past and present contributions to our society, country and nation.
This article analyzes the candidacy of Barack Obama for 2012 presidential elections. Discusses in detail the current economic situation and what is going right, and what is going wrong. Compares him with Republican hopefuls for nomination. Tries to figure out what needs to done and who can do it.
This is seventh in a series of articles on economic recessions and depressions, their causes, effects and cures. This particular article focuses on common factors in various global economic downturns. Tries to explore similarities and differences in causes and solutions.
This is the sixth in a series of articles on global recession, it’s causes, effects and cures. This particular article focuses on theory, causes and policies regarding recession. Compares different points of view on this subject. Analyses in the light of past recessions and current events.
This is the fifth in a series of articles on causes, effects and fixes for current global recession. This particular article focuses on great depression. Compares the current economic and financial situation with 1930s and points out the similarities and differences.
This is the fourth in a series of articles that provide a historical perspective on causes, consequences and fixes for economic depressions and recessions. This particular articles focuses on theoretical bases and research on economic depressions and recessions.
This is the third in a series of articles on economic recessions and depression, their causes, consequences and fixes. This particular articles focuses on president Hoover’s volunteerism. Sounds like a great idea, but, seriously failed in practical world. Does it mean that government and private sector partnerships never work?
This is second in a series of articles on historical analysis of causes, consequences and fixes for recessions and depression, a frequent happening in Capitalist economies. This particular article analyses thirty first U.S. president Herbert Hoover. Great depression hit us during his presidency and his reforms to fix it are largely considered as failures.
It is now a historically proven fact that depressions and recessions are regular happenings in capitalist economies, including U.S. economy. In this series, we are going to examine the causes of various recessions and depressions, their consequences and fixes that worked, keeping politics and ideology aside.
This is tenth in a series of articles on U.S. debt, budget deficits and credit downgrade by Standard and Poor’s. The series provides a very broad based and in-depth analysis. This particular article focuses on class struggle, discrimination, control and freedom.
This is the eight in a series of articles regarding U.S. debt, deficits and credit downgrade by Standard and Poor’s. The series provides a very broad based and deep analysis of this issue. This particular article emphasizes on the evolution and responsibilities of government.
This is the sixth in a series of articles regarding the debate on U.S. debt, deficits and government facing first ever credit downgrade done by a reputable authority. This article analyzes the argument regarding taxes, business regulations and labor unions, in historical and global perspective.
This is the fifth in a series of articles, regarding U.S. debt, deficit and recent, unprecedented, credit downgrade by Standard and Poor’s. Examines the economic, financial and fiscal policies, and successes and failures of president Obama in these sectors.
This is fourth in a series of articles regarding U.S. national debt, financial deficits and the credit downgrade by Standard and Poor’s. Series focuses on a very broad and deep historical perspective. This particular article analyzes the presidency of George W. Bush.
This is the third in a series of articles that examines U.S. debt and deficit in a very broad and deep historical perspective. It focuses on forty second president William Jefferson Clinton, his presidency, policies and contributions to country’s economy and finances.
This is second articles in the series on causes and factors behind current U.S. debt crisis and credit downgrade by Standard and Poor. This piece of work focuses on president George H. W. Bush, his presidency and time. Highlights the positive and negative long term effects of his policies on Economy and finances.
This article is the first part in a series of articles, analyzing in depth the causes and consequences of recent U.S. credit downgrade, from AAA to AA+ by Standard and Poor, first time ever in U.S. history. Provides a very broad based historical perspective to this discussion, debate, controversy, drawback and setback.
This article analyzes the in depth the D.B. Cooper hijacking incidence that happened in November 1971, and is the only unsolved mystery in our aviation history. This story has popped up again, after an Oklahoma woman claimed that her uncle was D. B. Cooper. After making a detailed analysis of reports and major accounts, regarding the incidence, it appears that the aircraft crew scammed this incidence.
This article analyzes the threat of U.S. default, in the light of current political events and developments. Highlights the potential disastrous consequences attached to default. Tries to find out the reasons and causes behind current political deadlock. Digs out the role of corrupt politicians and media owners and executives in this dangerous situation.
This article analyzes the religion and ideologies, and their impact on individuals and societies as a whole, in the light of tragedy and massacre in Norway. Compares Liberalism with religious ideologies, in a historic perspective. Discusses the pros and cons of freedoms offered by liberalism and restricted by religions.
This article performs a very broad based analysis of sports, politics, finance, deficits and unions, in the light of recent NFL labor deal. Highlights the dirty politics and the rapidly growing gap between rich and poor. Tries to dig out the causes and proposes the solutions. Points out to the fact that while rich, powerful and famous are still enjoying their constitutional right to organize, the poor people are frequently denied this right.
This article discusses the employment and personal relationships related information available on county and court criminal records. Tells the reader, what can be found and what would it mean for the business, from hiring point of view and for a person from the relationships point of view. Highlights certain, related legal terms and their meanings.
This article analyzes the importance and role of county and city criminal records, in background checks for employment and for the sake of personal relationships. Highlights in detail the pros and cons of different aspects of city and county criminal and background checks. Specifically pinpoints, what you can find out about the person you are investigating and what these finding may mean to you, from employment and personal relationships point of view.
This article analyzes the importance and use of criminal and public records checks for the purpose of preventing the abuse of children, senior citizens, sick, and mentally and physically disabled. Performs a deep research and analysis of statistics regarding the child abuse. Highlights the potential consequences of giving your baby or kid into the care of a person or institution, you don’t know very well.
This article provides detailed instructions and guidelines, regarding criminal records searches for businesses hiring employees and for building relationships. Tells you what to look for when selecting website for online criminal records searches and what to avoid, in this regard. Fully makes you aware of pros and cons and the potential risks and benefits involved.
This article emphasizes the importance and need of criminal background checks for businesses and in personal relationships. Highlights the historical, proven and possible consequences of overlooking this absolute need, in some cases. Beautifully covers both business and personal perspectives. Performs an in-depth analysis of this important issue.
This article analyzes the criminal background investigation and search providing websites and other online and offline services. We need to understand that the world is much smaller and crumbled, now. Contrary to old days, specially in big cities, everyone has to deal with strangers, almost everyday, for different personal and business related reasons.
This article provides a detailed and comprehensive advice regarding the lookup and retrieval of information, over the Internet, if the only important and reliable piece of information you have is a telephone number. The article analyzes the various options available, in terms of different websites providing different sets of services and information.
This article sheds light on the life, history, views and political activism of Michele Bachmann, a Minnesota rep. and Republican presidential candidate for 2012 run to White House. She is a very strong conservative, Tea Party supporter, who opposes gay marriages, abortion rights and president Obama’s health care reforms.
This article sheds light on the life, history and achievements of Nick Charles, a distinguished sportscaster, who died today, on June 25 2011, just five days before his 65th birthday. He survived with his wife of thirteen years, Cory and four children Jason, Melissa, Katie and Giovanna. He was battling with bladder cancer since 2009.
This article analyzes the ideologies, religions and current affairs, on the basis of recent findings and discoveries, regarding the Black Holes. Compares the scientific findings and facts with religious assumptions and theories. Emphasizes on the relativity and motion of all existence, Universe and everything in it.
This article covers the heated discussion and topic of separation of public and private lives, in the light of Anthony Weiner case. Discusses the historical, ideological, ethical, political and religious background of this dispute. Evaluates the role of media in it. Analyzes and compares different points of view. Brings into focus the human nature and science.
This article performs a critical analysis of Republican Party potentials for 2012 presidential elections. Analyzes the records, profiles, personalities, styles and eligibility of Republican hopefuls. Provides a definitive perspective to this race under current economic, financial, political, national and international landscape.
This is the fourth and final in this series of articles and concludes discussion regarding concerns in western world, about safety and security of Pakistan’s nuclear technology, assets, weapons and facilities and foreign policy elements on this issue. Emphasizes the value of mutual trust in relationships. Brings into focus the other side of picture, as well, mostly hidden from Western, specially American, audience.
This article is the third in a series of articles on international concerns regarding Pakistan’s nuclear assets, weapons and facilities. It provides a vast historical, cultural, economic, strategic and current background to this intense and heated discussion. Tries to paint a comprehensive and complete picture of the issues.
This article is second in a series on Pakistan’s nuclear assets, technology, weapons, capabilities, their security, and international and U.S. concern about it. It provides a historical, cultural, humanitarian, geographical and tactical perspective to the issue. Shows important details about Pakistan and reveals the aspects unknown to most readers.
This article is the second and last on this series on loss of life, money and property in U.S. wars. Discusses in datail the pros and cons of these adventures. Highlights the the fact that we, in fact, continue to lose, as opposed to getting anything out of these. Brings into focus the the arguments provided in the favor of these costly missions, by United States government and other involved parties.
This article analyzes the casualties and death toll in post 9/11 war on terror in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya and Pakistan. Finds out, if it is worth the cost, including the serious human cost. Highlights the facts, how false propaganda and dirty politics from our political and media leaders, has lead us to useless and endless, costly wars with mostly no results so far.
This article is second and last of the series of articles on the occasion of Memorial Day, 2011. It provides a very detailed account of the misery, destruction, killings, deaths and massacres caused by World War Two. Performs a very good criticism of war. Analyzes the real loss of life and property behind the numbers.
This article overviews the the stories of survival, strength, resilience, empathy and love, published in different media, on different occasions, with special emphasis on stories from Joplin, Missouri, after the destruction caused by deadliest tornado in U.S. history. Finds out, how important it is for us to possess the sense of belonging and community in our daily lives and during the disasters, like this one.
This article analyzes the international debt and U.S. financial crisis, their relationship Afghanistan, Iraq and Libyan war and attacks on Pakistan, in the light of U.S. and U.K. relationships and president Obama’s recent visit to Europe, specially U.K. Highlights the recklessness of U.S. and U.K. leaders in handling the financial and debt crises.
This article analyzes the enormous body of evidence, data, reports, research material and articles, in the favor of vastly accelerated climate change induced by human activity, in the light of recent ecological disasters. Provides a basis to think over and reach an informed conclusion, as opposed to the conclusions just based on, “what I heard.”
This article provides an overview of the devastation caused by tornadoes and severe weather related incidences, in Mid-west and Southeast of United States, and the other parts of the world. Tries to separate propaganda from scientific evidence, proofs, studies, reports and surveys. Filled with authentic research and references.
This article analyzes the key concepts of cheating, sex, marriage and monogamy, in the light of current events and news. Discusses the eternal conflict between nature, intelligence, ethics, religion and traditions. Brings into focus the historical evolution of various values persisting in different societies and cultures.
This article provides a review of scientific data published by various organizations and authors, around the World and in United States, in the light of current flooding in many U.S. states. Calls to give up inaction and take immediate and solid steps towards the solutions of the root cause of these natural disasters and climate change, at every level.
Stem cell research is a topic that has prompted much debate throughout the US in the last decade or so. In particular, it is the use of embryonic cells that has created the most historical discussion, with its opposition claiming that this practice is in direct disregard to legislation which prohibits the creation or the destruction of embryos for the purposes of research. The Bush administration of the US moved to curtail public investment into embryonic stem cell research, forcing private investors to contribute in reproducing the requisite cells.
The current government and its leader Barack Obama is in favor of the research however, and imposed rules in 2009 that allowed these privately funded cells to be used and tested in a controlled and well managed working environment. Subsequently, the Federal court last week gave Mr Obama’s administration the go ahead to continue their funding of embryonic stem cell research, lifting a previous injunction due to the ambiguity of the existing legislation on public spending in the US.
A Matter of Individual Opinion
It is thought that those who oppose embryonic stem cell research may well take their appeal to the supreme court, so the matter is likely to rage for the foreseeable future and beyond. It is a matter of individual opinion, with the previous administration of the US opposed to its practice and the more liberal government of Barack Obama in support of both the research and their role in funding and facilitating it.
As Barack Obama visited the ravaged southern state of Alabama this week, he was confronted by a scene of structural devastation and a local government stretched beyond their means in attempting to support afflicted individuals and families. An estimated 300 people were killed in the series of storms and tornadoes that swept across the southern state belt line last week, with Alabama the most seriously affected ahead of other states including Tennessee, Mississippi and Georgia.
As the local government pleaded for more assistance from their federal counterparts, it drew a sharp focus on the perspective of issues in the US, and also highlighted the problems faced by the government as they try to run a progressive and harmonious country. Tragedies such as the one which beset the southern states of the US require instant and significant attention, and subsequently become a priority regardless of the other relevant issues across society.
The Birther Movement and Political Manoeuvres
As the suggestions of the ridiculous ‘Birther’ movement and speculation concerning Mr Obama’s eligibility as president were finally laid to rest this week, so too a rather ugly chapter of political gamesmanship was consigned into history. However, it was unsettling to see an insignificant and covertly malicious suggestion create such an effortless controversy, regardless of its barely disguised motives of racism and political discontent
With the discussions continuing to rage concerning budget reductions and the correct policy of taxation in the US, the issue of fairness within a democracy is coming under an increasing focus. It is something that is entirely subjective to each individual and their own circumstances, and yet is often cited as reasoning when debates ensue about democratic policy and government rule. The issue of subjectivity is something that is difficult to incorporate when attempting to enforce a policy or law within a democracy, and can lead to complication in terms of the decision making process.
Taxation is a case in point, especially in the light of the suggestion that the US government will increase the tax liability of the rich in order to relieve the burden on lower income individuals and households. Backed by Barack Obama, it has instantly won the approval of an estimated 72 percent of the US society, who are in favor of focusing on the top two percent of earners in the country to reduce the vast national deficit. This is where the issue of fairness becomes important, and influences the thinking of voters and government officials alike.
The Processes of a Democracy
Democracy affords each individual member of a society a voice and opinion on any prevalent social issue, which can influence a government in imposing legislation and policy. However, a government cannot satisfy the requirements of each independent voter, and so must therefore make a decision that best suits the opinions and interests of the vast majority of it citizens. This is a slight anomaly that can complicate the process of a democratic regime, as some individuals can unreasonably expect that a democratic government should cater their their specific wants and needs.
It is a known and accepted fact that Barack Obama’s preferred policy with regards to tax is to increase the liability of the wealthy, while easing that which rests upon the shoulders of low and middle income households. This is a measure that is apparently well supported within the US government, with a vast majority of Republicans, Democrats and Independent representatives all in agreement that individuals or households who earn more than $250,000 per year should bare the brunt of plans to reduce the national deficit.
Not only this, but US citizens also seem to agree that this is the most positive step that their government can take with regards to taxation. The New York Times recently revealed in a poll that an estimated 72 percent of adults approve of increasing federal taxes on households earning $250,000 per year or more, which is a significant portion of the voting demographic in the US. Though this suggests that the government and its subjects are in accordance, there are economic and ethical issues concerning such a practice within a free and democratic land.
A Thriving Economy
From a purely practical standpoint, there are two significant reasons why increasing the tax liability of the rich would be either inconsequential or potentially detrimental to the economy. Firstly, given the effects of the global recession and subsequent recovery, there are a paucity of individuals and households who earn more than $250,000 in the US. This means that by targeting this demographic as opposed to imposing a 1 percent increase on each level of household income, the government will acquire far less reveneue over the next decade than they have the potential to.
Alcoholism is something that carries both a national and global concern, and is seemingly becoming prevalent across a younger social demographic. Both the US and UK have had specific incidents recently which have raised concerns about both the attitudes towards drinking and each notions methodology for regulating the consumption of alcohol amongst their citizens. This week was especially prominent, as the US along saw an infant aged 4 treated for alcohol ingestion, while up to 17 states are currently canvasing drinks producers Pabst Brewing Co. to refrain from marketing their beverages to a youthful market.
While the former incident occurred in Chicago and was the latest in a spate of nationwide incidents where children have consumed alcohol in public restaurants, the latter responds to a brand new drink promoted by rapper Snoop Dog. A malt based beverage called Blast, it comes in a variety of vibrant fruit flavors while boasting packaging and marketing material that is suited to a younger audience, yet it actually contains an exceptionally potent 12 percent of alcohol and is stronger than a typical can of beer.
A Lack of Responsible Awareness
The issue of alcohol consumption is not just a problem in the US, and recent events in the UK saw an 8 year old commence treatment for alcoholism after growing up in a family of negligent elders who were heavy and irresponsible drinkers. This may be the formation of a troubling global trend in terms of the social attitudes towards drinking, whereby it may become something entirely anti-social amongst teenagers and young adults. This manifests itself in alternative social issues, such as violent crime and health afflictions.
As Barack Obama addressed the audience at a Town Hall event moderated by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg this week, the significance of social media in the contemporary world was partially revealed. Not only did it afford the US leader the chance to address both influential technological innovators and the sites typically young subscriber base, but it could also be seen as a corporeal example of how the government can use new media to engage and excite the voters of tomorrow and effect social change.
Mr Obama used his hour long address to full effect, highlight the significance of scientific education and immigration reform to the technological innovators present, while discussing the virtues of informing and empowering youthful citizens within the boundaries of a democracy. His use of Facebook as an example to support the freedoms now afforded to citizens was key, as this is vindication for the site and social media as a whole entity. Given the efforts of social media brands to evolve their services, this is a critical signpost in their signpost.
The Changing Face of Social Media
Mr Obama is known to be a great fan of American innovation, as he believed this is the result of a freedom of thought that is synonymous with the US. Having cited Facebook in previous addresses, it is easy to see why he is so positive in his assessment of social media and their benefit to society. In 2010, Facebook became the most frequented online global resource, surpassing Google on the way to securing 500 millions users worldwide. This is a reflection of how it has evolved since its inception in 2004, and its progression from being a social network to becoming a core part of business and marketing strategies.
If we accept that the US government do not do enough to change their laws to combat social conduct, then it is important to understand a corporeal example of this. Perhaps one of the most relevant is the rise of cyber bullying, which sees young and vulnerable individuals threatened and abused by anonymous offenders. It has come to prominence in the wake of increased technological advancement and the unlimited access that individuals have to it, and has afforded bullies the opportunity to operate remotely and beneath the guise of anonymity.
A recent case in North Andover has exemplified this perfectly. A young girl who had both suffered from and beaten cancer before the age of 11, she began to receive texts and emails which threatened both her mental and physical well being. After missing a period of school and finding herself cowed by fear, she eventually discussed the situation with her parents and dismissed their fears that she was once more unwell. After reporting the details to the police, an investigation revealed that the perpetrator was one of the victims closest friends, who had used technology to disguise her contact details to harass and intimidate her.
A New Threat to Personal Security
This is a prime example of a relatively new but significant threat to individual safety and well being, and one that has no accepted precedent as a consequence. In this particular case, the perpetrator received a course of counselling and a set amount of community service, although this has been dismissed by the parents of the victim as inadequate and derisory. Regardless, a clear and stringent consequence for those found guilty of cyber bullying must be implemented, both to protect potential victims and act as a deterrent to those who look to perpetrate it.
If the citizens of a democratic nation begin to abuse the liberties they are afforded, at what point should a government take decisive action? Undoubtedly the US federal government exist to regulate society through law and guidance, and have a duty to protect the social fabric from the actions of individual citizens. So in instances where accepted laws or freedoms are being taken advantage of to the detriment of society, there is an argument that the government should take steps to change their rules of operation.
Creating a More Structured Social Environment
It should be said that changing laws to create a more structured social environment does not change the approach of a democracy. What it does is still empower citizens but in a far more considered way, and introduces an element of accountability for individuals and their actions. The act of restructuring the social element of the US would help to tackle many health and behavioral issues, notably those concerning smoking, obesity and anti-social conduct, and ultimately create a more productive and content generation of citizens.
Smoking is a relevant example, especially given the level of statistics and information that exist on its practice and consequences. Despite the fact that the decline in the number of high school children and adolescents who smoke has slowed in the last 3 years, and the eminent research that suggests that smoking addiction is more likely to develop during these formative years, most US states employ a minimum purchasing of 18. This, like the UK’s legislation that allows individuals older than 16 to buy cigarettes, is outdated and not reflective of the damage that smoking can do.
If there were any proof needed to support the current epidemic of obesity that is sweeping the globe, then it can be found through a recent case reported in China. A four year old boy, who weighs a staggering 136 pounds, has been offered free and potentially life saving treatment by a clinic in Hong Kong, with a view to preventing any long term health issues in his future. Doctors have stepped in after the case was brought to national attention through the media, and have ran an extensive number of tests to determine the existence of any underlying causes for the child’s condition.
Despite conducting an investigation that was both labored and considered, doctors have found no medical condition that could have acted as the trigger to the child’s obesity. While this is good news in terms of the child’s long term potential for recovery, it places the responsibility for his state of being firmly at the door of his parents, who allowed him to gradually eat his way into obesity. Yet there appears to be a reluctance to scrutinize his parents conduct throughout the affair, despite the fact that their behavior has put the health and well being of a young child at risk.
The Worldwide Growth of Obesity
The issue of obesity is a global one, and it is becoming increasingly prominent in numerous cities worldwide. It is estimated that obesity has risen to as high as 20 percent in some Chinese cities, as well as continuing to increase in other advanced and educated countries such as the US, UK and France. Its rise is worrying in the extreme, and if this trend continues it may well challenge tobacco as the single largest threat to individual health for the next generation.
Unplanned and teenage pregnancy is a rising problem in the contemporary world, and is one of the core issues that lends its burden to the social fabric of the US. The challenge facing the government and educational bodies is how to reverse this trend, and which methodology is the most suitable to encourage a more responsible and considered attitude amongst teenagers towards sexual activity. Not only this, but a healthy balance must also be created to protect the current generation of young mothers within society, and ensure that their own education and future is secured.
However, the question is just how far the US government and teaching facilities should go towards assisting teenage mothers, as offering widespread support could serve to vindicate the decision to indulge in unprotected sex in the first instance. An example can be witnessed with Westport TAPP (Teenage Parent Program) School, which is a Georgia based facility that offers special education to teenage mothers, and ensures that their circumstances to not drive them out of education altogether and also helps them to reclaim a sense of normality and everyday function in their lives.
Diminishing the Consequences of Unprotected Sex
The school itself offers 4 individual components, which serve to create a practical environment for young mothers while also educating them in social theory and conduct. By combining standard curriculum material with a social services component and Co-op child development center, it can diminish the impact that child raising can have on an adolescents burgeoning life, and allow them to continue to strive towards their own ideals of individual attainment. This type of function is considered both necessary and beneficial in contemporary society, and is a specific response to the many issues created by teenage pregnancy.
There is no doubt that creating and nurturing a life is one of the most valuable things that an individual can do with their time, and it is something which continues the essential cycle of life and existence. However, it is also an exceptionally difficult activity, and requires the considered devotion of both time and finance in order to raise a child successfully. With this in mind, it soon becomes increasingly difficult for new parents to maintain their own health and well being while caring for an infant, which can cause serious consequences in their short and long term futures.
Interestingly, a recent study conducted by the Paediatrics journal revealed that mothers rather than fathers are baring the physical brunt of child care, although both receive reduced levels of nutrition and exercise when compared to their childless contemporaries. The detailed study, which followed an approximate 1500 high school students into adulthood, revealed that the women who became parents subsequently consumed over 400 calories more per day than childless women of the same age and demographic.
A Question of Time
The primary issue seems to revolve around time, both in terms of mothers not being able to prepare a health conscious meal and also being unable to exercise accordingly. This creates a distinct imbalance with regards to the volume of calories consumed and the levels of subsequent physical activity, and leads to the individual becoming increasingly vulnerable to various health issues such as obesity. Although it may be argued that this is part of the personal sacrifice required to raise an infant child, it benefits nobody if the mother falls ill or suffers health issues as a consequence.
Yesterday we discussed the current stalemate facing the US government, and the potential for a federal shutdown that would have a discernible impact nationwide. However, while opposing factions of government and personal persuasion are having a stalling effect on the negotiations, it is interesting to consider exactly what the consequences would be should a resolution fail to be reached by midnight on this coming Friday.
Of course he concept of a federal government shutdown, whether it be partial or more widespread, is one that causes great concern for citizens. However, it is a rather vague and ill defined notion, and one that gives little indication as to the exact implications for society at large. So, what would be the immediate or long term consequences of enforced government inactivity, both in terms of the nations financial performance and the welfare of its workers and citizens?
The Financial Implications for a Nation
Financially, the partial closure of government institutions would be especially troublesome, and would create specific issue with regards to tax assessments and the funding of public sector ventures and small business enterprises. In a depressed fiscal climate, the forced inactivity of public sector bodies and their workers will only serve to slow the processes of economic recovery, and create an unhealthy cycle of increasing unemployment and subsequent closure of small and independent businesses.
