Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

DEI Programs Are Becoming Controversial—Here’s Why

Why are DEI programs becoming controversial? Do DEI programs even work? What are the arguments being posed against them? Some states are banning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and some companies face boycotts or criticism for implementing them. However, others claim that DEI programs are essential to maintaining cognitive diversity and fair practices. Below we’ll discuss arguments for and against DEI programming, and consider what might be done differently.

How Land Subsidence Is Causing Disappearing Cities

What’s causing cities to sink under their own weight? Can anything be done to save them? From New York to Jakarta, coastal cities across the globe are gradually sinking under their own weight. Experts say that left unaddressed, the problem, combined with rising sea levels and climate change, will worsen already severe flooding and eventually make coastal areas unlivable. Keep reading to learn about these disappearing cities.

The US Drug Shortage: Causes and Potential Solutions

What’s behind the shortage of hundreds of drugs in the US? What can be done to fix the problem? The US drug shortage is so severe that physicians at large cancer centers have virtually no supply of chemotherapy drugs left. Experts attribute much of the drug shortage problem to an ailing generic drug manufacturing market, which accounts for 90% of all domestic prescriptions. Below we’ll take a look at what’s causing the US drug shortage and if anything can be done to remedy it.

What Is Greedflation, and Does It Actually Exist?

What is greedflation? Why is it controversial? Is it just a conspiracy theory? Some economists say companies are using inflation as an excuse to ratchet up prices to profit excessively. Known as “greedflation,” this practice comes at the expense of American consumers. Mainstream economists have been skeptical of the greedflation concept, with some calling it a conspiracy theory. Keep reading to learn about greedflation and the opposing viewpoints as to its existence.

Summer Travel Tips for 2023: Avoid Crowds & Save Money

Are you planning to travel this summer? What can you do to save money and avoid the crowds? Nearly 85% of Americans plan to travel this summer, meaning you can expect big crowds, long lines, and high prices at popular destinations. Thankfully, there are some measures you can take so you can enjoy your summer vacation, stress-free. Keep reading for summer travel tips for avoiding crowds and major travel snags, and for staying on a budget.

How Climate Change Is Affecting Homeowners Insurance

Why is it a bad idea to buy a house in California or Florida right now? How is climate change affecting insurance? A growing number of US home insurers are limiting coverage, raising rates, and pulling out of states entirely as climate change-related natural disasters grow in frequency and intensity. Failure to address the problem will further destabilize already weakened insurance markets. Here’s what you need to know about climate change, insurance, and the housing market if you’re considering investing in property.

What Are Stand Your Ground Laws & Are They Still Relevant?

What are stand-your-ground laws, and should they be considered in 2023? What effect do stand-your-ground laws have on crime? Despite recent cases of homeowners shooting people who mistakenly approached their homes, Republicans are pushing for a national stand-your-ground law. This law would allow people who feel threatened to use deadly force. Below, we’ll look at the effect of such laws, already established in more than 30 states, on society and on crime rates.

The Colorado River Agreement: Everything We Know

What is the Colorado River Agreement? Is it too late to save the river? The Colorado River is rapidly drying up due to mismanagement and the ongoing drought in the Western US. The seven Colorado River Basin states have struck a deal with the Biden administration to drastically reduce their water consumption, which they hope will stabilize the water supply for the short term. Below we’ll go over the Colorado River Agreement, including why it’s needed, the details of the deal, and whether or not it’s too late.

Will AI Replace Writers & Other Freelancers?

Will AI replace writers and freelance workers? Is it possible that AI will actually create more jobs for freelancers? Artificial Intelligence has thrown freelance marketplaces, their clients, and independent writers’ futures into an uncertain, transitional state. As AI’s ability to produce writing comparable to that of humans grows, platforms and writers will have to adapt to meet clients’ shifting needs and interests. Here are the different perspectives on the effect AI will have on freelancers.

Why Vermont’s Death With Dignity Law Sparked Debate

Why is Vermont’s “Death With Dignity” law so controversial? What are the pros and cons of physician-assisted death? Vermont has become the first state to remove the residency requirement for physician-assisted death, sparking renewed debates around “Death with Dignity” laws. This change means that terminally ill individuals from outside the state can now seek life-ending care in Vermont. In this article, we’ll discuss the details of the law and the pros and cons.