Society Archives

How Food Waste in Supermarkets Is Getting Out of Hand

Why is supermarket food waste getting out of hand? What can be done to prevent it? US grocery stores throw out 123 million pounds of food each day. Advocates hope the newly reintroduced Food Date Labeling Act will help remedy part of the food waste problem. But time will tell whether the bipartisan-backed bill can withstand objections from the food industry. Below we’ll take a look at the history of supermarket food waste and possible remedies for the situation.

Are We in Late-Stage Capitalism? The 2 Points of View

Are we in “late-stage capitalism”? Was capitalism always doomed to fail? What would replace capitalism if it died? Some authors have argued recently that capitalism is a system destined to fail, while others argue that the system is resilient due to its system of checks and balances. In a more extreme view, some believe that capitalism will inevitably lead to a revolution. Below we will discuss all these possible scenarios.

What Got Us Here? A History of Political Polarization in America

Was American politics always like this? Did politicians always seek to stir up partisan fervor among their supporters by antagonizing the other side? According to Ezra Klein, the answer to these excellent questions is “No.” In Why We’re Polarized, he writes that the story of modern polarization is rooted in cleavages in the political system that began in the 1950s and 1960s, during the civil rights era. Read on for a brief history of political polarization in America.

Toxic vs. Healthy Masculinity: Subverting Damaging Views

What’s the difference between toxic masculinity and healthy masculinity? What are ways men can emotionally express themselves without feeling emasculated? Toxic masculinity describes men who believe domination, aggression, and homophobia are the standard definition of “manliness.” On the other hand, a more positive and healthy definition of masculinity prioritizes self-growth and high emotional intelligence. Below we’ll look at three ideas followers of toxic masculinity believe in, and combat it with healthy masculinity advice that men should support.

Are Identity Politics in America to Blame for Growing Polarization?

What’s more important in American politics—issues or identities? What’s fueling the increasing political polarization in the country? It seems that, more and more, America has an “us vs. them” mentality when it comes to politics. People used to discuss the issues; now, they talk about other people. Ezra Klein argues that this results in growing divisions among Americans. Read more to learn about this troubling function of identity politics in America.

The Effects of Extreme Heat & How Cities Can Adapt

What’s behind the Earth’s rising temperatures? What are the effects of extreme heat? How can governments address the looming crisis? Global temperatures will hit record highs in the next five years, according to a report released last month by the World Meteorological Organization. There’s a 98% chance that in one of these years, the Earth will reach the hottest temperatures ever recorded. Keep reading to learn more about the impacts of extreme heat and what can be done to counter it.

The Polarization of Political Parties: Why the GOP Is Impacted More

How has growing political polarization in America affected Democrats and Republicans? Why are these parties impacted differently? The Democratic and Republican parties are different, not just in their platforms, but in their culture and makeup. Ezra Klein says that this explains why political polarization affects these two major parties differently. Continue reading to understand the polarization of political parties in America.

The Unexpected Side Effects of Global Warming

How will global warming affect coffee and wine production? How does hot weather affect your libido and mental health? Aside from causing extreme weather events and the loss of polar bear habitats, there are other side effects of global warming that directly impact your day-to-day life. Hotter tempers, lower productivity, and even mornings without coffee may be in our future. Here, we discuss the impact that rising temperatures have on mental and physical health, leisure activities, and our daily routines.

Technology Is a Distraction: The Reasons and Effects

Why is technology a distraction? Why are people so vulnerable to technological interference? The Distracted Mind by Adam Gazzaley and Larry D. Rosen argue that the Information Age increased our susceptibility to interference. They also explain this increase and warn about the harmful effects of this uptick in interference. Keep reading to learn how and why technology is a distraction, and why anyone can fall for interference.

Why the Filibuster Should Be Abolished: It Fuels Polarization

What’s the filibuster in the US Senate? Should the filibuster be abolished? In Why We’re Polarized, American progressive journalist, political commentator, and podcaster Ezra Klein explains why the filibuster should be abolished. He thinks the rule is abused and contributes to political polarization. Keep reading to understand why Klein believes it’s time for the filibuster to go and why not everyone agrees with his analysis.