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Culture Awareness North Korea

I. Introduction

     A. Background and statement of purpose

        1. Overview of cultural awareness

     B. Scope, limitations, problems

        1. Scope of the Research Paper

        2. Limitations and Problems

     C. Methodology, resources, definitions

 II. Body

     A. The parts of the problem

        1. Literature, Art, music, and film

        2. Architecture and city planning

     B. Research, analysis, or evaluation of the problem

     C. (Repeat B as needed to cover all of the points in your report.)

 III. Conclusion

     A. Predictions, review, solutions, generalizations, recommendations

Introduction

A. Background and Statement of Purpose

1. Overview of cultural awareness

Cultural awareness is a multifaceted, philosophy that stresses on the understanding of the way an individual’s culture may enlighten them in terms of adding value to their values, their behaviors basic assumptions and the general beliefs. Cultural awareness is a very important part of the society because it provides profound basis for communication to take place and enables us to appreciate some of the basic aspects of the society like perceptions and beliefs.

Culture awareness is an important feature in a people’s lives because without understanding of a people’s own behavioral rules and project the rules on others, misinterpretation is likely to occur. In the event that people don’t have knowledge of their culture, they tend to assume the meaning of behavior. For instance, among the Japanese, it is considered as disrespectful to look someone straight in the face.

Cultural awareness helps individuals in realizing that cultural background nare significant in shaping every individual; even though every individual has a unique background with respect to culture. These cultural backgrounds are responsible for shaping individuals’ way of interpretation of the immediate world around them, the ay they perceive themselves and how they ultimately relate to the environment and other people. This is a very important tool for people and it is essential for exploration of other people’s cultural issues in a more sensitive way.

In a similar view, exploring various aspects of cultural practices that relate to North Korea; we are in a position to augment our cultural knowledge by presenting a overview of the North Koreans’ cultural attributes and issues. However, while doing this, it is imperative that individual needs and inclinations be identified since it is unnecessary to reduce people or a person to a set of cultural norms.

This research paper thus explores the culture awareness in North Korea but bears in mind that even within the North Korean culture it is not uncommon to find that the culture across the board varies significantly with respect to beliefs, values, and peoples’ behaviors. This diversity may be caused by many other intervening factors. These factors include socio-economic background of the people, diverse life experiences that people face as well as the experience of migration. This enormous variation in the aspects that build a culture among people is an essential requirement that will help us have an in-depth understanding of the processes that bring these variations.

B. Scope, Limitations, Problems

In order to achieve the objectives of the research, various sources are consulted, which provide information to help in further understanding the cultural changes that have taken place among the people of North Korea with respect to literature, art, music and also as relates to architecture and issues to do with planning of the city. The paper makes use of primary research studies that have already been carried out to explore culture awareness on North Korea. Various databases are also consulted in order to explore the information that is relevant and has been archived. Government sites are also very important especially in understanding the scope of tourism promotion and the aspects promoted as tourism catchments for the country.

The scope of the paper is only limited to the highlighted areas with a clear understanding of the diverse nature of culture as a part of people’s lives. Thus, although culture awareness covers broad areas of the society, the narrow details of every broad aspects are beyond the scope of this paper.

This research is not a primary field research and therefore just as common with most research works of such dimension, it is limited in terms of coverage of the broad perspective of the issues that relate to culture. However, exploring the cultural changes that have taken place from time to time helps in understanding the direction of t7he cultural changes of the people and this can be done through the exploration of the above mentioned sources.

Given that culture is a people’s way of life in respect to various aspects as underscored earlier in the paper, it is a changing facet of life. Since most of the sources consulted comprise research studies already carried out, the implications of the findings of the research studies might have changed by now since the time of carrying out the studies. Secondly, culture has a significantly diverse perspective and every individual has a diverse. This means that the results and findings of this study might be limited in respect to the construct validity of the findings.

C. Methodology, resources, definitions

Given that it is expected that there are many research works that have been carried out, random selection of sources especially online databases will be used for the paper. In this respect, databases are explored through online search engines for key word like, North Korean art, history of architecture in North Korea, music and film appreciation in North Korea, migration trends in North Korea, North Korea and racial discrimination, among other relevant terms. In respect to this study, culture is understood as the peoples’ ways of life with respect to beliefs, practices, art appreciation, perceptions,

The Case of an Elementary Boy Claiming Abuse

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Professor’s name

Course

Date

The Case of an Elementary Boy Claiming Abuse

In this case study, I am interviewing an 8-year-old boy who is in elementary. He lets me know that his mother has been physically abusing him at home and these incidents have taken place on more than one occasion. After informing my supervisor, she assured me she would meet with the student to further assess the situation. My supervisor insists that the boy always makes this claim to the new interns that come now and then. Because of this, I feel there is a possibility that she will not file an abuse claim with the state. On the other hand, I believe there is sufficient reason to file a report based on what the boy told me.

As an intern instructor tasked with safeguarding the boy’s well-being, my next step is to involve a third party to ensure the child gets all the help that she requires. I believe that as an instructor, my ultimate responsibility is to the child and no one else. As such, I will do all that it takes to keep him safe. The fact the boy opened up to me that his mother was abusing him physically was a cry for help. If I fail to take necessary action, I would never be at peace with myself. This is why I would be willing to go against my supervisor and talk to the school Principal or any other third party who will see to it that the state department of children is made aware of the incident so they can get to the bottom of the matter. Although going behind my supervisor’s back to report the issue to a higher authority is unprofessional, in special cases such as this, where the child’s life could be in potential danger is justifiable. I would choose to let the state department know about the child’s claim as child abuse tends to have a serious impact and can ruin the lives of families and children easily. In this case, I am only left with two options; following my supervisor’s lead and hoping that she will take the necessary action or taking the initiative and reporting the incident and abuse claims to the children’s department myself. In this case, I would decide to go with the latter. I would bring on board the principal to the elementary school to explain the situation and file a report with the state department of children. At the end of the day, teachers have a mandate to report any cases of suspected child abuse that they might run into. This means that as an instructor-intern, it is my duty to let the state department know if I have any suspicions of maltreatment.

There would be many benefits to contacting the state department of children on my own. One is that I would be helping rescue a boy that is in potential danger of even more harm. If it is true that the boy’s mother has been beating him, then this is bound to take a toll on the boy’s emotional and social well-being. The boy might be suffering in silence, and reporting the issue to the children’s services independently can help him access the help he needs. Victims of physical abuse tend to suffer emotionally, which explains the need for psychosocial support. The Children’s Department is best placed to help the boy deal with the trauma from the abuse as they have a team of qualified sociologists trained to help him overcome the ordeal. I strongly believe that contacting the children’s department is the right thing to do as they have the best available resources at their disposal to determine whether the boy is a victim of abuse and also because it is the right thing to do. Just because my supervisor says that the boy has a trend of saying his mother is harassing him to every new intern does not mean that the claim might not be true. At least, the boy’s complaint should be enough reason to investigate a matter. There is a lot of benefit in giving the boy the benefit of the doubt and believing that he is a victim of abuse.

While reporting the incident to the children services s the right thing to do, there are various reasons pointing to why calling them is not a good idea. For starters, if the claim turns to be a force there is the burden of incriminating the parent and interrupting a disrupting a cohesive environment. Another reason for not calling the children’s services is that there is no physical proof of abuse, such as unexplained bruises, unusual interest in physical violence, and inappropriate clothing does not exist. However, the fact that there are no signs of violence does not take away from the fact that the boy’s claim might be legitimate.

Culture and Technology

Introduction

Over the years, the way of life of a people has advanced with the change in technology and increased awareness. These changes are also influenced by the increasing migration of people resulting to existence among different races and ethnic communities. The question of whether technology or culture influences the other has been widely discussed with many controversial results given. However, this concept is determined by which of the true is more important to different groups and the level of development they have. Culture has also been known to act as the comfort zone of many people where they fit in comfortably. Therefore, the circumstances that may lead to its change are very slim. It responds also responds less to technological changes (Finin, 2006) as opposed to how technology would respond to people’s way of life. Areas of life such as leadership, eating habits, perception to certain issues in the society and governance are a determinant of culture of a people. Aside from the technological influence that is equalizing the world today and covering up the differences, culture is the tool that distinguishes one group from another. This goes further to illustrate the relationship between culture and technology in an organization. It reflects the coexistence between employees and the norms they are more acquitted to over the operating period.

It is also worth identifying some of the cultural practices experienced in organizations. This could be in terms of the ethical standards practiced and leadership of the firm. For instance of leadership, it could be either transactional or transformational. Some organizations have been known to encourage the transactional leadership such that it becomes a tradition/cultural practice in the organization which every leader lives up to. This is where use of threats and reward is done to manipulate good performance from the employees. In most cases, the leader uses this to get personal favors from the voiceless employees. Transformational leadership on the other hand is whereby the leader incorporates various ideas to achieve proper changes for the benefit of the organization. It is adopted by the later leaders in the same organization due to its obviously good results and basis of honesty, transparency and integrity (Moe, Pappas, Murray, 2007). According to this research, technology is likely to be positively accepted where the leadership is transformational since it works towards upholding the good image of the organization and eliminating the detrimental qualities. The situation is contrary to the transactional leadership for fear of discovery of the forceful acts that the use of technology might expose. As discussed earlier, technology advancement is reliant on the working/ethical culture of the organization, thus determines its acceptability.

In relation to leadership, leaders vary depending on their field of specialization. For instance, the leadership required in a hospital is totally different from that in a law firm. Workers in a law firm are trained towards working to win cases and bring to the organization as much money as possible. Their culture is money sided where failure to achieve this goal is a threat to a person’s employment. Transactional leadership is put into much more use here than other leadership styles. In the event of technological change, the incorporation of advanced methods may be seen as a hindrance to the development (Moe, Pappas, Murray, 2007). Therefore, it is altered to suit their goals and ethical culture or totally scrapped. On the other hand, the employees in a hospital are trained towards saving lives and serving the patients/clients first. Making money and maximizing profits is secondary to any other objective. Therefore, achieving this must is possible under the leadership of a transformational leader who encourages and finds better ways for the employees to improve their skills. As was discussed earlier, this trend is carried forward by the leaders who take after, thus, making it their culture. For the sufficiency in serving, technological changes are well received and approved since they provide better ways to reach the patients with all transparency. Effectiveness in this case is also an advantage.

Dafoulas, and Macaulay, (2001) argue/state that, “… virtual software development teams and how cultural differences between them or their members may affect activities in different stages of the development cycle.” The previous discussions have focused on the effects of leadership and the relationship of the same to technology and culture. However, the effects of culture are not only seen in leadership. Existence of teams in organizations and any other association is influenced by culture and the technological effects on the culture of the people. This may be because of different beliefs and work ethics among the different team members. It is also because of the cultural differences in the team and the environment or the tasks they are exposed to. Therefore, caution is important in the implementation of the activities with regards to cultural differences. As opposed to an organization leadership where the leadership style is emulated to uphold the culture, here the most important factor is getting the team mates to work together. In this case, technology may be acceptable depending on the ole it plays towards enlightening the team members. For instance as (Dafoulas, and Macaulay, 2001) argued, it will be more acceptable where it enhances communication between different teams for better coexistence. Conversely, its reception will be quite hostile in a case where the technological changes are meant to change the working system of the team or team members. This is attributed to the attachment of people to their organizational/individual/team culture such that any change whether for the better is resisted.

Besides accepting of changes, culture has also been known to largely influence the performance of the team depending on the task. According to Brannick, Salas, and Prince, (1997), “… the extent to which team members share strong, common artifacts and symbols will influence their shared knowledge structure… they will be more accepting of each other” (Pg 74). The author bases the findings on a research that proves people with the same origin, beliefs and possibly background are ore understanding of each other than would be those with different origins. This is because of the shared expectations, hardships and experiences which they feel bind them together. Absence of this bond creates tension among team members due the unpredictable nature of each other. This illustrates the influence that culture may have on people’s performance. Working together for the good of the organization will be more likely where trust is built before any work begins. However, research has also proved that team members can become fond of each other even where they are not from similar backgrounds, thus performing as expected. This happens where the culture of the organization they are working for is supportive of team work and healthy competition. Instead of the teammates fighting to outdo each other, their energy is more focused towards glorifying each other and building the organization. (Brannick, Salas, and Prince, 1997) elaborate this concept by stating how use of a reward system gives the team mates morale and enhances appropriate behavior and attitude towards work, thus enhancing the spirit of healthy competition.

Teas are known to be set up to work together, incorporate a wide range of ideas depending on the area of specialization to achieve a defined goal of the organization. However, another kind of teams researched referred to as learning team has an equally tasking responsibility towards enhancing the performance of the organization. Here, the members focus on providing proper training to the organizations’ employees and offering solutions where they are needed. Incase of trouble by the members of the firm, the team mentioned offers referral services though a system specifically set up to meet the needs of the workers (Hawkins, ). This is very vital for any firm to avoid circumstances where mistakes are made for lack of confirmation services and proper guidelines. Like any other department in an organization, they have a set of rules and regulations that they work with which they have adhered to and made a culture. Fro instance, intense research is needed to ensure readily available solutions incase of trouble with the system or the procedures. Here, technology can be best adjusted to suit the needs of the organization. This is because there is need to ensure a well functioning system and full knowledge of the members here. It is therefore not very rigid to introduce technology in this sector as it affects the work positively and eases the work of the members, thus the culture can be adjusted as well to work well with the introduction of the new technology.

In future, research based on the influence of culture and technology on teams could be more comprehensive. This is to ensure all the factors affecting the issue are well addressed. For instance, the views of team members on the effects of technological changes and the value they attach to their culture should be incorporated in the research. Secondly, I would suggest that the researcher conducts their own investigations of work ethics and culture to ensure they get an independent opinion of influence of culture and technology to their work and ability to perform. This is essential o compare the interviewees views with that of the independent findings of the researcher. Another important aspect of the research would be to understand why people are reluctant to changes in their way of life. Mostly, people would rather maintain old habits than adjust to what the society considers better for them. It is therefore necessary for the researcher to understand this concept. Thus, it will enable them impose technology acceptance to the people depending on the loopholes found and the possibility of the changes influencing their lives positively.

In the study of culture, technology and their effects on various ethics and working components of organizations such as team work, it is possible to discover gaps that may lead to security problems. For instance, distributed and located teams may cause controversy to the organization in terms of performance ability. Where the team members are not in ne location, technology is important to enhance communication and relationship among them. It also keeps them updated in all areas of the associations operations where they will work in line with the agreements. This is not the case in areas where they are located because it is easier to communicate without much involvement of technology.

Conclusion

The discussion of culture and technology is detailed in terms of which of either are more influential to the other. This is a discussion brought up by the debate over whether culture is more diverse and adhered to or whether technology has better chances of getting reception over culture. It is however evident that culture is more critical and people attached to a particular way of life are less likely to adjust to new lifestyle. However, here is evidence that technology incorporation in an organization culture is dependent on the field which the firm works on and the degrees of benefit if the proposed technological change is applied. Certain factors such as leadership, team work and learning teams also determine the reception and incorporation of technology. However, it is more beneficial for most organizations to use advanced technology in their operations. Hough culture is known to bind people together; technology has the advantage of bringing different people together, thus, wider range of ideas and better coexistence among the organization members and management as well.

References:

Finin, T. (2006). Does technology change culture or culture change technology? Retrieved from http://ebiquity.umbc.edu/blogger/2006/07/10/does-technology-change-culture-or-culture-change-technology/

Hawkins, T. R. (1997). The learning congregation: A new vision of leadership. Louisville, Ky: Westminster John Knox Press.

Brannick, M., Salas, E., & Prince, C. (1997). Team Performance Assessment And Measurement: Theory, Methods, And Applications. Routledge.

Dafoulas, G., & Macaulay, L. (2001). Investigating Cultural Differences in Virtual Softwae Teams.

Moe, J., Pappas, G. & Murray, S. (2007). Transformational Leadership, Transnational Culture And Political Competence In Globalizing Health Care Services: A Case Study Of Jordan’s King Hussein Cancer Center. Globolization and Health.

The Benefits of the Legalization of Marijuana

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Professor’s name

Course

Date

The Benefits of the Legalization of Marijuana

Introduction

Statistics show that 95, 000 individuals die annually, including 27, 000 women and 68, 000 women. These individuals did not die due to marijuana use but rather from a drug that is much more accessible nationally; alcohol. The consumption of marijuana has always carried a hostile and unfair stigma. Marijuana has been deemed a ‘getaway drug’ for some years now. The drug has also been at the center of media attention following its legalization. As more states legalize marijuana, there seems to be growing debate as to its regular availability. Ever since marijuana was approved for recreational use ten years ago, politicians have kept pushing for rejections of its national legalization. However, the stigma associated with its use has not transformed much since the notion of recreation use was first introduced. However, as more studies are conducted, the more it gets normalized and individuals with negative viewpoints will begin to see its benefits. As the drug continues to be legalized, society will begin to experience its benefits first-hand and eventually do away with the negative stigma that comes with its use. This essay delves into the benefits of the legalization of marijuana.

Background

Across the United States, the use of marijuana is prohibited at the federal level. This is despite several states passing laws that allow for its recreational and medical use. As of May 2002, the use of medical cannabis products is legal in 37 states, while 18 other states permit its use for non-medical products and personal consumption (Axisa, 13). States continue to propose new laws that encourage legal activity. Worth noting, the 2020 presidential elections that took place in November took the attention of cannabis legalization. Several important decisions were made at the polls where numerous states voted for the determination of the future of the legal marijuana industry in one form or another. Several states, including New Jersey, Montana, South Dakota, and Arizona borrowed a leaf from Washington’s or Colorado’s book to legalize marijuana consumption for recreational purposes. Since then, state legalization on the matter remains heavily divided. After the November elections, Judge Christina Klinger, a South Dakota Judge, ruled the measure unconstitutional. South Dakota’s Supreme Court ruled against the legalization of marijuana while Arizona in contrast collected over $284 in tax revenue from its legalization. The economic benefits of legalizing marijuana outweigh the disadvantages as evidenced in the move of the first states to change positions.

Income and Improved Job Opportunities

One of the benefits of the legalization of marijuana is that it creates more job opportunities for people because it pumps more money into the economy. In 2019 alone, the United States recorded up to $12.2 billion in annual sales (Bradford and David, 75). At the time, only 11 states had legalized recreational use of marijuana. Since 2019, four more states have made the move to legalize marijuana for recreational purposes. As the years go by, more states are decriminalizing marijuana, enabling states and the country to make money. For instance, in Massachusetts alone, cannabis retailers report gross sales of up to $393 million. Notably, customers spent $2.2 million within the first five days of marijuana legalization alone. In Nevada, it is anticipated that up to 41, 000 additional jobs will be available by 2024. This is expected to bring up to $1.7 billion dollars in income which is estimated at around $42, 500 annually. However, the national legalization of marijuana would translate into about 1 million jobs by the end of 2025. The jobs created would be in the production process of cannabis that goes into its production including cultivation, distribution, and sales. These jobs would boost not only the economy but also ignite an untapped field of study for the workforce and education.

Elimination of the Black Market

Another benefit of legalizing marijuana is that it helps eliminate the black market of marijuana sales. According to a survey done by the Colorado Consumers Coalition, people will still find other illicit means of buying marijuana even though it is illegal (Collingwood, Ben, and Sarah, 3). The marijuana black market remains as popular as ever, and even with increased legalization, the number of consumers purchasing through illegal means will also increase. The same study found that consuming marijuana the legal way is 40% more expensive than purchasing it off the black market. This is an indication that consumers would rather buy it the old-fashioned way on the black market than using legal means and this has a lot to do with the negative stigma associated with its use.

Improved Tax

The third benefit of the legalization of marijuana has to do with increased tax revenue. Washington and Colorado have recorded better sales than anticipated in regard to the buoyant tax revenues. Washington collected $559.5 million is legal revenue from marijuana in 2021, which is $85 million more than the previous year. Colorado collected over 423 million in marijuana tax revenue in 2021, a 10% increase from the previous year. The total tax revenue collected from all states in 2019 was $1.7 billion. The total revenue has more than doubled in the last two years. The aggregate revenue for states that have permitted marijuana use got t the $3.7 billion mark for adult-use sales. This is excluding the revenue that is generated for towns, cities, and statewide budgets. Additionally, the figure also excluded six states who had decriminalized its use and had not begun collecting tax revenue for 2021. A study by New Frontier cannabis analytics shows that by 2025, legal marijuana can generate an extra $105.6 billion in federal tax.

Increased Investment Opportunities

Another benefit of the legalization of marijuana is better investment opportunities. The legalization of marijuana comes with a possibility of immense benefits for local and national economies. Decriminalizing marijuana use could be useful in securing investors from various areas of the country. While cannabis use remains illegal at federal levels, investors find it difficult to build on the growth taking place in the industry. The number of companies relating to marijuana that are trading on public stock exchanges is little, and while investors have an option of using over-the-counter exchanges, many successful businesses in the early cannabis spaces base their operations in Canada and other countries (Fasesan, 165). If marijuana was to become legalized on a national level, companies would have the freedom to list stocks in United States exchanges hence building liquidity and paving the way for more investors. If the growth rate of the marijuana space keeps up at the same pace as in the recent years, there is a possibility that investors will develop an interest in the industry.

Minimizes the Side Effects of Other Illnesses

Another benefit of medical marijuana is that it reduces the side effect of other illnesses, such as cancer and AIDS. These chronic illnesses are destructive on the body and have side effects such as extremely low appetite and headaches. However, medical professionals discovered that THC-based drugs tend to have the same effect as other plant-based medications. THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis has been found to stimulate receptors responsible for controlling appetite (Settas, 22). Specifically, THC stimulates the CB1 receptor which is affected by such harsh diseases and does not function well. The medications based on THC stimulate the CB1 receptors in patients igniting them to their normal eating habits.

Saves on Money

Another benefit of the legalization of marijuana is that it helps in saving money. Considering the monetary benefits of decriminalizing marijuana, it is critical to think of how much money might be saved and the revenue that can be generated in the process. As of now, the enforcement of marijuana costs the federal government numerous billion dollars annually. An American Civil Liberties Union 2013 study estimates the costs to be about $3.6 billion annually. As more states continue legalizing marijuana, the costs of enforcement are more likely to reduce (Grech, 46). If marijuana were made legal on a national level, the costs would even drop more considerably. Additionally, if marijuana was no longer considered a controlled substance, there would be fewer cases pertaining to the substance going to trial leading to fewer incarcerations and by extension, more money would be saved. Legal marijuana would also benefit the medical consumer of marijuana-based products. This is because as more states continue to legalize marijuana, its price is likely to reduce overall because of commoditization. While this might not seem as good news immediately, people consuming cannabis-based products are likely to benefit from the lower prices.

Benefits Patients Suffering From Brain Dysfunctions

Another benefit of the legalization of marijuana is that it benefits patients battling chronic brain dysfunctions. Marijuana has been known to improve the condition of Alzheimer’s disease. In small doses, THC consumption slows down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, giving the patient more time (Homel, and Rick 20). Marijuana has been known to impede beta-amyloid, which has been commonly thought to trigger the illness. While marijuana has not been proven to boost memory that is already affected by the illness, it plays a critical role in regressing the illness. Marijuana decreases beta-amyloid concentration and curtails the inflammation of the brain. These benefits people presenting with the Alzheimer’s disease as it gives doctors and researchers time to find a potential cure for something different that can help.

Benefits Patients with Health Complications

Another benefit of the legalization of marijuana is that it is beneficial to patients that have health complications. Medical marijuana is used to manage pain in health complications such as arthritis, migraines and fibromyalgia (Hall et al., 1580). It functions through cannabinoids that adjust the pain pathways in the brain. This produces a feeling of euphoria and not pain and this is due to the nerves that sense pain. The nerves contain high cannabinoid receptors. As the patient ingests cannabinoids, they plant themselves on receptors so as to initiate the feeling of relief. It was also shown in a study carried out in 1981 that when cannabis is used as a low-dosage opiate, it relieves pain effectively. However, using opiates in current studies is not a long-term solution.

Beneficial to Victims of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Another benefit of the legalization of marijuana is that it has proved beneficial to patients presenting with PTSD. PTSD pushes its victims to results to strategies such as anxiety or panic attacks or having visions about the traumatic incident as a way of relieving the trauma. Marijuana helps such patients through stimulating CB1 receptor cells and the endocannabinoid system located in their brains. The Endocannabinoid system controls bodily functions such as memory, stress, mood, and pain. Through stimulating the system and CBI receptor, it enables individuals to cope with trauma in a positive way.

Conclusion

In closing, the legalization of marijuana for recreational use has a plethora of benefits for users and even the nation. Legalizing marijuana creates job opportunities, eliminates the black market, increases taxes, and brings more opportunities of opportunities. Additionally, legalizing marijuana helps save money and manage chronic illnesses, including cancer, AIDS, arthritis, PTSD, and brain dysfunctions like Alzheimer’s. While there are also downsides that come with legalizing marijuana, it goes without saying that its benefits outweigh the disadvantages. This topic of legalization is faced with backlash from minds that do not believe in its legalization. Moving forward, it is key for people to keep an open mind on the matter so as not to miss out on the many ways that marijuana has made life better. Hopefully, in the future, people can reduce the negative stigma associated with its source and focus on the positive outcomes.

Works Cited

Axisa, Liam. “A comparative approach to the legalization of marijuana in Malta-an analysis of policies and economic effects of regulation.” (2020).

Bradford, Ashley C., and W. David Bradford. “Factors driving the diffusion of medical marijuana legalization in the United States.” Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy 24.1 (2017): 75-84.

Collingwood, Loren, Ben Gonzalez O’Brien, and Sarah Dreier. “Evaluating ballot initiative support for legalised marijuana: The case of Washington.” International Journal of Drug Policy 56 (2018): 6-20.

Fasesan, O. A. “Legalisation and Liberalization of Cannabis: The Benefits and Drawbacks of the Global Trend.” Annals of Health Research 8.3 (2022): 165-176.

Grech, Francesca. Legalizing marijuana for medical purposes: costs and benefits. BS thesis. University of Malta, 2018.

Hall, Wayne, et al. “Public health implications of legalising the production and sale of cannabis for medicinal and recreational use.” The Lancet 394.10208 (2019): 1580-1590.

Homel, Peter, and Rick Brown. “Marijuana legalisation in the United States: an Australian perspective.” Trends and Issues in Crime and Criminal Justice [electronic resource] 535 (2017): 1-20.

Settas, Andrea. An Analysis of the Potential Fiscal and Health Benefits of the Legalisation of the Sale of Marijuana in South Africa. MS thesis. Faculty of Commerce, 2021.

Culture and Its Social Contracts

Culture and Its Social Contracts

Author

Institution

Introduction

The comprehension of culture has always been considered fundamental in the understanding of the behavior and traits of individuals in particular societies. Culture is defined as the totality of the socially transmitted beliefs, behavioral patterns, institutions, arts, as well as all other products pertaining to human thought and work. While this is the case, the behavior of human beings has mainly been dictated by the rules and regulations pertaining to the governing bodies under which the individuals live (Haerens, 2011). This is especially considering the social contract under which contemporary human societies live, where they surrender their rights and freedoms to the state so as to allow the state to safeguard their remaining freedoms and rights. This may be clearly understood through close examination of the Latino community or culture, within the precincts of the economic, social and political structures.

Economic structure of the Latino culture

The closing years of the 20th century came with fundamental changes in the socioeconomic landscape of the United States society as evidenced by its Latinization. As at 2009, Latinos were projected to occupy the rank of the largest ethnic minority group (Haerens, 2011). While the society experienced increases in population, as well as economic, educational and political advances in the last several decades, about a third of its populace wallow in poverty. Indeed, a large number of Latino workers are relegated to the lowest rungs in the United States economy, where they find themselves becoming increasingly re-concentrated and displaced in conditions of structural unemployment and underemployment (Avalos, 2004).

The socioeconomic situation in which Latinos live may be directly traced back to the inexorable emergence of the global economy, as well as the recent economic policies pertaining to expansion especially NAFTA. NAFTA has reduced the participation of Latinos in labor provision through transferring well-paying jobs in the manufacturing industry to other “cheap labor” manufacturing centers throughout the world (Avalos, 2004).

Social structures of the Latino community

Latino American families are fundamentally characterized by the extended family, which undertakes a key role in the lives of family members. In essence, there is frequent interaction and strong bonds among numerous kin, with individuals in the extended families living either nearby or within the same compound. Apart from their cooperative nature, individuals are expected to place the familial needs ahead of their own, an aspect that has resulted in the erroneous conclusion that individual advancement and achievement is impeded by family (Arreola, 2004). At an extremely early age, Latino American kids are expected to learn the importance of rigid sex role definitions, deep familiar responsibilities, reverent and respectful treatment accorded to the elderly, as well as the position of the man that comes with authority and respect in the family. As much as a considerable proportion of the male authority may gradually be decreasing as the role of women continues to be redefined, scholars have noted that women in Latino communities are still taking up a subordinate position (Arreola, 2004). Indeed, fathers are accorded authority and prestige, with sons having significantly more independence at an earlier age compared to daughters. Underlining the value that Latinos place on the extended family structure is the fact that parents usually arrange for companion parents or godparents for a child. This also shows that Latinos place immense value on other adults apart from the immediate parents (García, 2003). Not only would these “alternative” parents give advice and correct the child, but they are also expected to respond to the needs of the child.

Political structures of Latinos

The increasing populations of the Latino community have resulted in an increase in political activity and push for political representation. It is well understood that the Latino communities have immense numbers of immigrants (both legal and illegal) in the United States (García, 2009). This means that Latinos are faced with distinctive challenges pertaining to the economic interests and foreign policies of the United States and their countries of origin (Avalos, 2004). However, the increased participation may be demonstrated by the increased number of protests and that occur throughout the cities in the United States, largely comprised of Latinos among other immigrants in an effort to call for action against unfair and punitive policies especially pertaining to immigration reforms (García, 2003). Indeed, the increasingly visible participation by the Latino community underlined the broadening and expansion of the Latino political community.

How the development of this culture has been affected by its social contract

While Latino community may have become one of the most significant minority communities in the United States, its growth and development has continuously been crippled by the “social contract” that Latinos have made in the formation of the society. This is especially considering their largely immigrant status, whether legal or illegal (Arreola, 2004). Their history as immigrants has made it extremely necessary that they only trust their own and seek no cooperation with individuals that they consider as outsiders. They tend to gravitate around their own, which is why scholars have believed that their familial ties have been coming between them and their progress both as individuals and as communities at large (García, 2009).

References

Haerens, M. (2011). The U.S. Latino community. Detroit, MI: Greenhaven Press.

Arreola, D. D. (2004). Hispanic spaces, Latino places: Community and cultural diversity in contemporary America. Austin: University of Texas Press.

García, B. L. (2009). Latino politics. Cambridge: Polity.

García, J. A. (2003). Latino politics in America: Community, culture, and interests. Lanham, Md. [u.a.: Rowman & Littlefield.

Avalos, H. (2004). Introduction to the U.S. Latina and Latino religious experience. Boston: Brill Academic.

The Background to the Debate over the Ratification of the Constitution

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The Background to the Debate over the Ratification of the Constitution

The transition to the United States Constitution from the Articles of Confederation was not always seamless. Fixing the issues of the Articles of Confederation needed a series of long debates during and after the convention took place. The one that was certain was that changes had to be made. Fifty-five delegates convened in 1878 at the Constitutional Convention to assess the best ways to rectify existing documents. Some of the weakness of the articles was that they lacked a national court system, every state was allocated a single vote regardless of size, and lack of an executive branch to enforce acts that Congress passed. Another weakness is that congress lacked the mandate to tax or regulate interstate and foreign commerce. Also, laws need a nine out of thirteen majority to be passed in Congress and amendments of the articles needed a unanimous vote. These loopholes brought a great deal of conflicts between states, something that delegates tried to resolve by drafting the Constitution. However, when the Founding Fathers finished signing the constitution, under the Articles, it required ratification from nine states before going into effect, which was not easy. The push for ratification sparked a seemingly endless barrage of articles, documents and pamphlets opposing and supporting it.

There were two sides to this debate: Antifederalists and Federalists. The Federalists were pushing for the ratification of the Constitution, while Anti-Federalists were against it. One of the significant issues that the two parties were not conflicting about was the inclusion of the bill of rights. To the Federalists, the addition was not necessary as they believed that as is the Constitution stood for limited government rather than the people. The Anti-Federalists on the other hand were of the opinion that the Constitution provided the central government excessive power and people would be exposed without the Bull of Rights.

The Split of Government between Federalists and Anti-Federalists

The Federalists who were led by Alexander Hamilton, although secretly were the first political party to form in the United States. Federalists supported the Constitution and tried to convince the States into ratifying the document. Alexander Hamilton alongside James Madison and John Jay, published a series of essays anonymously under the pseudonym “Publius” that were regarded as Federalists Papers (Gilbertson, 255). Madison and Hamilton argued that the Constitution did not need a Bill of Rights as it would cause a parchment barrier that would limit people’s rights rather than protecting them. However, the two eventually formed a concession and announced their interest to take up the issue of the series of amendments that would eventually become the Bill of Rights. Without such compromise, the Constitution might never have gotten ratified by States. It is surprising that it was James Madison, a Federalist that eventually showcased the Bill of Rights to Congress irrespective of his former position on the matter.

In the great debate concerning the ratification of the constitution, the Anti-Federalists were opposed to the new system as it did not protect individual rights and threatened liberties. While the anti-federalists were not always united, they involved various elements. One section did not support the Constitution as they thought that more powerful governments had threatened the sovereignty of sports. Others opined that a new central government would possess the traits of the despotism of Great Britain they had strived hard to separate themselves from. Others were still afraid of the new government threatening personal liberties. In the push for ratification, majority of the articles that were in opposition were given pseudonyms such as “Centinel,” “Brutus,” and “Federal Farmer” however renowned revolutionary figures such as Patrick Henry came out publicly against the constitution. Although the Anti-Federalists were not successful in keeping the Constitution from being adopted, their efforts were responsible for the development and implementation of the bill of rights.

Jefferson and Hamilton’s Debate over the Role of the Federal Government versus the State

Following months of compromises and battles, the United States Constitution was eventually sent to Congress by the Convection on September 1787. Throughout the first decade and the ratification process in the first decade of the new government, the American society was at the center of a heated argument about exactly the way governments would function and the kind of powers they could have. Political parties started developing soon afterwards as people argued about the direction in which the discussion was headed. Alexander Hamilton soon became the leading voice for the Federalists who strongly opined that the federal governments were supposed to be strong. On the contrary, Thomas Jefferson who was a Republican argued that trusting the federal government would cause tyranny. A clause in Article 1 of the constitution gave Congress the power to make provisions and laws which would not be categorized as enumerated powers. Jefferson and Hamilton debated numerous times about what ‘necessary and proper’ would mean. Hamilton adopted a more liberal reading of the clause and pined that Congress thought do what they deemed necessary for national responsibilities, Jefferson, in the other hand, maintained that the clause indicated that Congress should only take actions they deemed absolutely necessary and nothing more (Mikhail, 507). Hamilton proposed the US charter should have a national bank to cater to the Revolutionary War debt, stimulate the economy, and develop a single currency. Jefferson on the other hand argued that the development of a national bank was not proper and necessary. After presenting both arguments to Washington, he agreed with Hamilton’s viewpoints.

Works Cited

Gilbertson, Nils. “Return of the Skeptics: The Growing Role of the Anti-Federalists in Modern Constitutional Jurisprudence.” Geo. JL & Pub. Pol’y 16 (2018): 255.

Mikhail, John. “Fixing Implied Constitutional Powers in the Founding Era.” (2019): 507.

Culture and Industry

Culture and Industry

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Culture and Industry

Introduction

This paper gives a critical analysis of Max and Ardono’s article. It does this by comparing it to the works of Michelle Hilmes and Tuttle Howard. It gives an in-depth analysis of the theory of these scholars on the use of mass media and social culture. As they explain, mass media can be used both for the good of the entire society or advance individual goals. However, it is better if a right decision is made to ensure that rational solutions are chosen. The paper aims to define the use of mass media in the classical and contemporary times and the way it can be used to promote good and bad ideologies which can affect the society in different ways.

Explanation

According to Adorno and Max, the contemporary mass media should be condemned because of the way it is being used to advance selfish agendas of individual institutions of or groups of people. Instead of using it for the benefit of all the people in the society, mass media is now used by the state to sell cultural propaganda and ideologies. This is what many governments have been doing in the world today. For instance, as they explain, the autocratic regimes of Adolf Hitler used newspapers, magazines, radios and films so as to spread their political ideologies to the people of Germany. At the same time, the government of Stalin used media to promote communism in the Union of the Socialist Soviet Republic (USSR). Moreover, mass media industry was used in the United States of America (USA) in which the state took advantage of the Hollywood films to promote its capitalist ideologies (Tuttle, H.N., 2007) The same trend has persisted up to date because a lot of governments still manipulate the media to enable them consolidate their political powers. However, this should not happen because it promotes the misleading of the public in governmental policies and records development, the information which every citizen is entitled to. Instead of manipulating the mass media to mislead the public, the state should know that this is a very bad thing to do. Media is so influential because it is trusted by everybody in the society. It should be used so cautiously, so as to benefit all the people regardless of their social class.

One more argument noted is that mass media has been used as a tool for domination. As these authors argue, the media industry has been used to brainwash the masses and dominate over them. This has been done because its role is now perceived as an instrument of control. The same sentiments have been echoed by Tuttle Howard who argues that mass media no longer executes its duties. Instead, it has become a subject of manipulation which is used by the top authorities to assemble all the people. As a result, it has put them into general categories so as to deny personal identity. Meaning, individuals have gradually lost their identities because this can no longer be recognized since it has no significant role to play in their lives, as far as the top authorities are concerned. In this regard, Max refers to the media as an “organization from above” Meaning, the ordinary citizens have no enough strength to determine how it should be used to satisfy the diverse interest of each and everyone in the society. He goes further to say, “In culture industry the individual is an illusion not merely because of the standardization of the means of production. He is tolerated only so long as his complete identification with the generality is unquestioned”. This paper accepts that it is true to make such an argument because the media has been used to propagate general ideas. They portray society as an entity which constitutes all, as it shuns away from individualistic ideas which advance the ideas of people as individual persons.

As a result of the standardization by the media industry, the spirit of homogeneity has been advanced. Basically, it has become apparent that individual identity has become a matter of the past. It has no important contribution to make in the society any more. In its replacement came the production of a human being as a creature for consumption. The role of a man has been limited to use. A human has lost his or her identity because of the influences of the mass media which has placed as a sub-set of the entire grouping to which an individual belongs. This argument is vague because the media has made human beings to be identified by others and the existence of mass media has placed individuals only to exist because of others. Their identity is received from the larger society. This paper agrees with the philosophies of these scholars because they gave an assertion which depicts the real picture in life. As Tuttle Howard says, individuals are treated as labels. A person is identified with a particular group he belongs to. Individual identity has been replaced by a broader category which states that people inherit traits of their groups. It is the label which is used to categorize people today. Although individualism reins, the fact is that a group identity, which has been promoted by the mass media, still has a great influence on the society.

This paper agrees with the assertion that mass media should be condemned for demolishing the initially significant aesthetic value of art. Unlike prominent it was before, art was exclusively used to promote the aesthetic beauty of life in totality. This was done by appreciating the role of individual contributions into the society. In other words, people were not viewed as cliques, but as individual entities with diverse worldviews and contributions which they could make into the society. However, as these scholars argue, this has ceased since then because of the numerous changes in the contemporary art. Unlike the classical art which emphasized on intellectual productions, the contemporary art is merely aiming at entertaining people. In fact, the only important thing to them is to please the viewers by provoking laughter. As Max and Ardono explain, “Happiness has now been reduced to laughter”. Art is no longer used for educating people. Instead, it is only used for making people laugh. This explains why they claim that, “In the false society laughter is a disease which has attacked happiness and is drawing it into its worthless totality”. The major players in the arts industry are not ashamed of their acts. They have altered the industry to serve as a center for downgrading societal values. For instance, they have downtrodden the role of love to romance. It is true to argue like this, since the mass media is now used to disseminate pornographic materials which do not add any value to the society. Instead, they only corrupt the minds of the younger generations who are the major consumers of the contemporary art.

In his explanation of philosophy, Ardono insists that philosophy should be used I the pursuit of knowledge. In this regard, he recommends that it should be properly and extensively used in the provision of answers to major questions surrounding life. This paper supports this argument because it is true that a proper interpretation of life involves critical thinking coupled with reason. In fact, this commitment was indicated in their work when they decided to incorporate the philosophical ideologies of Fredrick W. Hegel who emphasized the role of rationalism and idealism as the chief sources of knowledge. It is right to say that these are most paramount qualities in accomplishing individual consciousness. As Hegel argues, consciousness is essential in realizing freedom. It is futile for one to lack freedom and harmonious relations in his mind, body and soul. Otherwise, there will be a conflict which may be difficult to tame. This is an informed stance, since it can enable one to make sound decisions. Likewise, it can be a teaching to the mass media to be rational in their decisions. They should know that art is supposed to be used for the benefit of the society. Meaning, the producers of mass media should be rational to ensure that they become utilitarian in their productions. This is the only way through which they can benefit people. Otherwise, they will make art continue losing its aesthetic value.

It is true that capitalism is one of the worst ideologies which should not be propagated by the media. As Michelle Hilmes claims, capitalism been used since time immemorial as a tool for expressing dominance of the advantaged groups and suppression of the vulnerable groups. As Karl Marx states, materialism is not good because it brings division into the society and during the classical periods people used to exchange the value of their labor to get material benefit. However, the owners of production had a full control of the means of production. On the other hand, laborers could only provide their services at cheaper prices, but had no say on how it would be used to create wealth. Later, there was rivalry and each of these factions stated to view one another as an enemy. From the above explanation, it appears that capitalism is not a good thing because it advances oppression. With the modern development people have become great consumers. Likewise, there has been mass production which is the only way to satisfy the demands of consumers. The media and art should not be used to advance capitalist ideologies as it used to be done by Hollywood industry in the USA, it should not be manipulated by the state so as to spread capitalist regimes which can be so detrimental in the society. These authors are right when emphasizing the role of the mass media in promoting unity. The mass media should be left free to operate without any limitation. Otherwise, it will align to one section of the society so as to advance its ideas. They say, “Under monopoly, all mass culture is identical and the lines of its artificial framework begin to show through”. Meaning, the mass media should not be monopolized. If it happens, it will pretend to promote one culture which will be in a contravention of the spirit of tolerance and diversity. Capitalism is bad because it “dehumanizes the society”. It should be rejected since it leads to dominance and oppression. There should be equality because it can lead to unity and harmony in the society.

The other ideology advanced by these authors is about the role of consciousness in the interpretation of the part the mass media plays. In order to shed more light on this issue, the scholars opted to allude to Sigmund Freud’s human development psychoanalytic theory. In his work he recognized the role of childhood experiences in the development of one’s character. Freud said that the kind of life led by an individual during his or her childhood influences greatly their future development during adulthood. On the other hand, Sigmund argued on the role of unconscious mind in the shaping of characters of people. Concerning this, it is important for the mass media to ensure that they impart the right information on people. The information given should keep on changing depending on time. It can have a very great influence on the kind of culture adopted by people in a given society. As Max argues, it does not mean that the character of a child is determined by the family alone. However, it should be known that a child’s immediate environment extends to anyone it interacts with in its everyday experiences. Thus, it is upon the media to ensure that they provide information which reflects the culture of the people. Media has a very great influence on people. Hence, one should be conscious of the type of the message to deliver to the people for their consumption. Culture qualifies to determine the kind of lifestyle adopted by people.

Conclusively, the ideas put by these scholars are quite relevant and help in understanding the contribution of mass media in shaping the culture of people in the society. As they explain, every culture has origin and is subject to transformation. Hence, media and art should not be monopolized. Instead, they should be left to freely operate as they strive to sensitize people on the information relevant to their environmental context. Otherwise, it will be misused and ends up by dehumanizing the society. The industry can only enable people to retain the natural meaning of life if it is properly used. Otherwise, it will have to be destroyed.

Reference List

Tuttle, H.N. The Crowd is Untruth: The Existential Critique of Mass Society in the Thought of

Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger, and Ortega y Gassett. American University Studies:

Ser. 5, Philosophy; Vol. 176) New York: Peter Lang. 2007 Print.

Tensions Emerging within the Argentine Society in the Closing of the 19th Century

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Tensions Emerging within the Argentine Society in the Closing of the 19th Century

Located in the southernmost part of South America, having a variety of climates from the warmest tropical jungles to the frigid Antarctic, is a country that was once a source of hope for many Europeans, namely Argentina. From traditionally having an economy based on the exportation of beef, wool, hides, and corn, in the closing half of the century, Argentina transformed towards industrialization and openness to prosperity and progress. In the process of consolidation and forming an identity as a nation, liberals promoted and fostered European immigration as a way to attain civilization and progress in the nineteenth century. This essay discusses the tensions pertaining to immigration and popular classes in Argentina in the closing of the nineteenth century.

Intellectuals in Argentina in the nineteenth century found a justification for immigration citing that it would bring modernization and progress as a country. Predictions were that the Europeans would shake Argentina and Chile out of their traditional mold and make them dynamic, powerful, and civilized. The foreign population would promote economic, cultural progress and economic development. Advocates of liberal social philosophy laid down ideologies which would give the immigration phenomenon a scientific justification. They opined that society could be studied scientifically like other natural sciences, an observation that was likely to bring about social laws which would be applied universally.

The positivist ideas brought about race concerns around Argentina. At the time, Argentina population was divided into upper and lower classes. Many thinkers subscribed to the arguments of biological determinists that non-whites are inferior and condemned mixed races. Similarly, the upper-class and intellectuals in Argentina viewed dark skinned individuals are being culturally inferior to their white counterparts. The idea was that the natives would never bring progress or order to the nation. Whitening the population through intermarriage with Europeans was one of the many reasons for immigration. Even with intellectuals claiming that immigration was the best way to attain population growth, immigration remained to be the best option for attaining population growth required for economic and cultural progress. Ironically, foreigners were always considered as outsiders and despite dwelling there for good and raising families on Argentian soil.

Alberdi was a member of the ’37 generation that drafted the constitutional proposal to the federal in 1853 that set the foundation for modern-day Argentina. Alberdi’s most significant ideas revolved around the concern he had for this race and population. Juan Alberdi was renowned for his infamous dictum “Governar es poblar,” which translates to “to govern is to populate.” By asserting that to govern is to populate, Alberdi gives broad meaning to the term populate-one that embraces economic development, immigration, and moral and cultural improvement. In the mid-1800s, Argentina practiced liberal ideas hence promoting unrestricted immigration that provides cheap labor for the nation’s prosperity and growth. Alberdi did not favor the native Argentineans in populating his nation, but instead his hope was to boost population density using people of better quality from the race that were most civilized. Alberta believed immigration was a way of progressing and culturing Americans. Sarmiento, like Alberdi favored European arts, immigration, education, culture, and architecture. He was a great diplomat, educator, and president of Argentina (Alberdi, 36). His slogan was “to govern is to educate.” He tried to attain social, economic, and political freedom as well as prosperity and progress for the American people.

References

Alberdi, Juan Bautista. “Immigration as a Means of Progress.” The Argentina Reader. Duke University Press, 2002. 95-102.

Culture and Emotion

Culture and Emotion

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There are cultural differences in the elicitation/ causes of emotions, the values placed on emotions, and the outward display of emotions. When different cultures are put under study, several issues within the cultures that affect expression of emotions in those cultures. Human emotions are cross-culturally different; some cultures tend to encourage people to be calm, friendly, and comical whereas other cultures encourage their people to be unresponsive, nervous, and easily humiliated. This essay explains my experience in the past years with variations of emotions in different cultures that include Colombian, Iranian and.

Cultural differences in emotion elicitors are the intensity in which emotions are experienced. Iran is an example of an emotionally sensitive culture where individuals more experience intense emotions than other cultures. Iranians would react to anger or threat more harshly than both Colombians and Americans. The reactions of Iranians are quicker, stronger and last longer than for a less emotionally sensitive culture. The Iranian culture promotes sensitivity to emotions such as shame, fear and guilt particularly because of the demand put on them to obey religious rules and older people. On the other hand, Colombians would react to threat in a slower manner by first analyzing the cause of the threat. Their reactions do not normally last as long as the Iranians’ do. Nevertheless, American culture is less sensitive to emotions compared to both the Iranian and the Colombian cultures. Americans usually seek for solution after investigating the cause of a threat or fear rather than taking a reactive response.

Cultural differences in the value of the emotion exist because cultural disparities exist in the modal, prevalent, as well as normative emotional responses. These differences may be expounded in terms of subjective feeling, antecedent events, behavior, and appraisals. In America, women tend to express their emotions more compared to men especially the black Americans. In contrast, in Iran and Columbia both sexes are taught to tightly control the expression of their emotions. Iranian culture greatly prompts women to control expression of their emotions especially if it is geared towards men. I have realized that in Iran one suppresses anger when the target is someone of high status. Iranian culture is a masculine culture characterized with higher gender differences. For men Iranian culture de-emphasize expression of weakness such as sadness but reinforce assertive emotions such as anger.

These three cultures express their emotion differently in their environment. Americans express their emotions in an independent manner. Americans are always feeling sorry for themselves because they normally feel that they are responsible for their own actions and destinies. Colombians express their emotions in terms of family perspective. Colombians’ families share both their emotions and feelings. Colombians are raised in an environment where relatives are put first thus making them worry more for the welfare of their families than themselves. There are family reunions that are regarded as very significant particularly during holidays and there is noticeable respect expected of children. The Colombians are always careful when expressing their emotions at times even faking them in order not to hurt their family members. Iranians express their emotions in a religious perspective because they normally consider obedience to religion as important. This therefore make them express unrealistic emotions just to show respect even when they are angry.

Some cultures are more emotionally sensitive than others meaning that they will exhibit more emotions compared to others. The Columbians’ sadness, fear, and hunger may not last for long when a target is someone of high status; the anger may be suppressed but not as much as it is applied in Iran. Americans are hard-hit by emotions such as fear, sadness and anger because their culture does not suppress the expression of their emotion. Iranians’ emotions are mostly instigated by their religious and cultural values. For instance, it would be a shameful for Iranian women not to cover their body in public particularly in the presence of men. Moreover, respect to others is greatly valued in Iran especially towards older people including parents. Obedience is regarded as significant and this largely contributes to emotions such as fear because they are only required to obey the rules but not allowed to disagree. Some cultures are more emotionally sensitive than others meaning that they will exhibit more emotions compared to others.

The outward display of emotion varies with culture. For example, the extent to which individuals experience emotions differs as a function of culturally normative behavior of their society. I think the reason there are cultural differences in the outward display of emotion is that some cultures value certain emotions more compared to others. American culture is individualistic while the Columbian and Iranian cultures are collectivist, meaning they emphasize doing things on behalf of others. For instance, Americans view happiness as attainable, infinite, and something that is experienced within, whereas Iranians and Colombians consider happiness as relational and involving many external and social factors, inherent in collective experiences among individuals. Columbians are friendly and always express their joy through happiness whenever they hang around with their families and friends. On the other hand, the Iranian culture suppresses display of emotion in public because they are taught to adopt what is right and drop unpleasant emotions. In this regard, emotions such as anger are suppressed in Iran whereas emotions that show respect to God, family members and the entire society are largely exposed.

Americans promote happiness in their cultural setting hence prompting them to create and encourage many circumstances that stimulate happiness. However, Iranians’ culture promotes togetherness and seriousness. The fact that Americans promote happiness amongst themselves is really encouraging and thrilling. Americans proactively maintain a positive view of the self unlike Colombians where cultural models do not favor the positive and a self-critical approach. In Iran, the individuals are aligned with their group where they concentrate on their family’s positive image. The Colombian and Iranian cultures concentrate on receptivity to both positive and negative aspects whereas Americans tend to appraise emotional situations.

Living conditions in various cultures vary with different kinds of events promoted by specific cultural models that in turn generate events that stimulate culturally desirable emotions and subdue events leading to less desirable emotions. Americans love praising, complimenting, encouraging each other, and giving awards and trophies for different levels of achievements. Similarly, Iranians discourage being critical or inattentive and they largely promote an encouraging and enthusiastic view of themselves. Colombians devalue anger and they normally reduce the in-group contexts in which anger is likely to emerge. Additionally, the Iranian culture devalues anger and suppresses the acts of thwarting and in-group frustration that in turn avoids the experience of improper emotions that may lead to anger.

In sum, I think that there are cultural differences in the elicitation/causes, values, and regulation of emotion. It is apparent that cultural differences in emotions are evident in American, Colombian and Iranian cultures. The Colombians’ emotions towards their society and families reveal their love for each other and I feel it is what makes them feel for each other and even express sadness whenever one of them is hurt or depressed. Iranian culture is generally characterized by their religious beliefs that emphasize obedience and family values. This kind of culture has significant influence on the way they express their emotions. On the other hand, the individualistic nature of Americans who think of themselves as individuals rather than a group encourages them to pursue happiness and other self-motivating emotions. This kind of culture really touches me emotionally and I feel that it is one of a kind in the world.

Tea of Coffee; Which Drink

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Tea of Coffee; Which Drink is better

Can you replace your regular cup of tea with coffee to start your day? Tea and coffee top the list of the most popular beverages in the world. Accounting for 78% of all team consumption and consumption, black tea is the most sought-after drink. While tea and coffee have similarities, they also have their fair share of differences. It is hard to tell the better beverage because both sides of the aisle show a lot of passion for their drinks. The purpose of this essay is to contrast between two drinks- coffee and tea, in terms of health benefits, taste, and caffeine content.

Health Benefits

To begin with, both tea and coffee consumers often claim their drink of choice to be the healthiest. According to recent studies, both tea and coffee have significant health benefits. Coffee is effective in boosting physical performance, preventing Type 2 diabetes, and contains essential nutrients. Taking a cup of coffee every day prevents type 2 diabetes, according to scientists. According to researchers, coffee takers are significantly less likely to suffer from diabetes because the caffeine helps curb insulin resistance. For every cup of coffee consumed, they have a 7% less likelihood of developing diabetes (Hayakawa, 4553). Caffeine also boosts one’s physical performance by raising the level of adrenaline in the blood. This boots one’s response in physical activities. Research has shown that, on average, caffeine boosts physical performance by 12%. Additionally, caffeine comprises naturally occurring vitamin B compounds such as potassium and manganese. On the other hand, tea prevents weight loss, cancer, heart disease and protects brain function. Taking green tea speeds fat loss and speeds up metabolism. According to studies, consuming four cups of tea a day reduces body weight and waist circumference. Tea also prevents cancer as it can kill specific cancer cells. Studies have established an association between tea and preventing oxidative damage, which causes cancer. Tea also reduces heart disease as it reduces cholesterol that leads to serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, some teas improve blood circulation and reduce high blood pressure, reducing the likelihood of heart attacks and blood clots. Tea also protects brain function by reducing the threat of developing neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Caffeine Content

Secondly, it is common knowledge that although both drinks have caffeine as an ingredient, coffee contains more caffeine than tea. The health benefits of caffeine are primarily in its ability to help a person stay alert and focused. Many people will pick coffee to jump-start their day or get through a lazy afternoon when making choices. On a chemical level, caffeine functions by blocking adenosine which is a transmitter responsible for triggering relation. Coffee is a strongly brewed at high temperatures allowing the coffee beans to release more caffeine molecules (Samoggia and Bettina 653). As a result, coffee contains high levels of caffeine than tea. An eight-ounce cup of coffee contains between 90 and 100 milligrams of caffeine. Tea, on the other hand, does not contain as much caffeine as coffee. However, tea leaves have more naturally occurring caffeine than coffee beans. In essence, tea is an infusion that is generally weaker than coffee. Tea is brewed at relatively lower temperatures than coffee which ensures that not all the caffeine is extracted from the tea leaves. The tea leaves are discarded alongside a considerable amount of naturally occurring caffeine. Noteworthy, tea contains other chemical contents that boost focus and attention. The strongest teas contain about 70-90 milligrams of caffeine.

Taste

Thirdly, it is important to assess the taste of coffee and tea in deciding which drink is better. This is because if the taste is not appealing, one might not want to consume it. Coffee tends to have a more strong flavor and bitter taste than tea. Coffee is rather acidic, which explains its bold and astringent flavors. The strong chemical profiles and taste mean that coffee tends to be harsh on the stomach, especially if taken in high amounts. Tea also occurs in various flavors depending on where it is grown. Real tea consists of white tea, oolong tea, green tea, and black tea. The rest are deemed herbal tisanes as they do not emanate from Camellia sinensis, the actual plant tea. Oolong and black tea are the strongest flavors, with citrusy, fruity, earthy, and nutty options.

Conclusion

Tea and coffee are the most famous drinks across the world. Although they have some similarities, they also have remarkable differences pertaining to the taste, caffeine content, and health benefits. Tea is beneficial in preventing heart disease, weight loss, cancer, and boosting brain function. Coffee contains essential nutrients that boost physical performance and prevent diabetes. Coffee contains more caffeine than tea, although tea has more naturally occurring caffeine than coffee. As regards taste, both drinks have distinct tastes and preference depends on the individual. If one needs help figuring out the drink that works best for them, they should consult a qualified dietitian to help evaluate their needs.

References

Hayakawa, Sumio, et al. “Anti-Cancer Effects of Green Tea Epigallocatchin-3-Gallate and Coffee Chlorogenic Acid.” Molecules, vol. 25, no. 19, 2020, p. 4553. Crossref, doi:10.3390/molecules25194553.

Samoggia, Antonella, and Bettina Riedel. “Consumers’ Perceptions of Coffee Health Benefits and Motives for Coffee Consumption and Purchasing.” Nutrients, vol. 11, no. 3, 2019, p. 653. Crossref, doi:10.3390/nu11030653.