Reviews #22
It is known that racism seems to be, among other subjects, an actual concern for the majority of population around the globe. The intense demonstration over the death of an arrested pedestrian confirms what we could have already suspected. But why is there such an incredible turmoil around cultural identity and ethnicity?
The XXI century has become the blossoming of globalization and media which has cause, as a phenomenon, the communication between other countries and cultures as well. A process which was never so intense before.
But it has their own issues. The tendency of discrimination and violence caused by race, is very alarming, yet persisting. The among of hatred towards minorities such as Native Americans and Black People are something to reflect on, plus according to PBS News Hours nearly a quarter of young black people say they’ve been harassed by police.
In fact, during the social movement Black Lives Matter a lot of people has participated in a thousand of demonstration in support of the black community. But American people are not the only. After Jorge Floyd case and constabulary misconduct, lots of people around the world felt compelled at that time to support the movement and to vindicate the same message around the world: “Black Lives Matter”.
Besides, the United States is not the only country who has to confront racist social disruptive. In France, last year during the same days, French people claimed for social justice as well to end race discrimination. The year 2016 a case similar to George Floyd took place. Adama Traoré, a young black male aged 24, was killed by the same cause as Floyd under strange constabulary circumstances. He was killed by suffocation by a policeman that was convinced he was just pretending.
The repercussion of Jorge Floyd death it still a lemma to represent the movement Black People Matter around the globe. And it shows, because also other foreign countries such as German, Spain, Great Britain or Denmark participated in the demonstration to vindicate the death of George Floyd and the black discrimination. So it was proved once again the need to support these movements in the world we live in today, a world more fairly that it has been.
But, the problem still there. There are a a lot of opposers of social equality who believe that some group of people are superior than another, and that white people should have more privileges among black people. Ku Klux Klan or even neo-Nazis still very active and spreading around the country.
In the same terms, it’s important to remember and remark an historical and academically studied fact that has to be brought in our conscious minds. Before the 70s in Jamaica, the idea of race didn’t exist. Jamaica was full of mixed races where any color skin could be found, from white people to dark people. But, at the moment they were assimilated in the western modern world this situation and social environment changed. And the concept of race took place in the daily life of people who never was disquiet by that.
In fact, tracking its own history, race hasn’t been a word of exclusion - except some cases - before colonialism started in the XIX century. Race and ethnics were only political and cultural terms such as conquest of territories or the assimilation of other cultures. But it has not a metaphysical meaning. Even the mix of races is something usual. E.g. The mix between Romans and Wales people or Spaniards and Arabic people. During some ages, these combinations of genes were representations of the changes in the Global Map.
But, we could track already when racism began: new technology, machinery, international trade and a curiosity to travel to unknown and mysterious lands. We are talking about colonialism from the XIX century, a period of time characterized for the will of land expansion, resources and money increase and a subconscious desire for power and domination.
The technical ages from Enlighten Age, brought to the colonialists the opportunity to fabricate their tools and machinery by themselves, causing expropriation of foreign wealth from other lands and the trade of people, black people, as a force of labor. A group of people who were obliged to exist their countries, and continent, to ship to the Promise Land.
But the old Europeans who didn’t want to establish in America did the same as their companions. Since they plunder and conquered as colonies countries like India, African lands and South America territories which their own cultures, erasing their diversity and for one reason: their own and vast benefit in terms of wealth.
During that age, in the U. S there was any critical concern about the different treatment that White and Black People had. But later on, as the country was organizing itself, they began to develop different ideologies, such as conservatives and abolitionists. Both parties were against which other, since the abolitionist believed that black people should be freed. After some crucial events during the Civil war (1861 - 1865) the abolitionist party won and slavery end.
But, why is still an issue to be Afro-American in the U.S.? And why racism is so powerful yet? As Nietzsche said in his work On Truth and Lies in a Non-moral Sense (1896), truth is only a false concept to hide its true meaning: power.
So, if a black person or women didn’t have a soul as they claim intellectuals from the European colonialism, there was no used to be concerned by their rights as human beings and patriarchy and slavery were then something unavoidable.
But there it is: people as Martin Luther King or Mahatma Gandhi demonstrated to people that racism could be fought in great terms. Also, people like Rosa Parks, a mid-aged woman who refused to seat in the back of a bus, marked a hit in history vindicating black people segregation. Artists like Nina Simone also share some thoughts and even participated as an activism during the 60s disturbs.
In fact, one of her songs, "Mississippi Goddam", were inspired by a slaughter committed in the hands of Ku Klux Kan. Over 4 young girls between their 11 and 14 years old died that day, inside the in the morning 15th September 1963 in the Baptiste Church 16th Street.
Nina Simone said herself:
“At first I tried to make myself a gun. I gathered some materials. I was going to take one of them out, and I didn’t care who it was,” Simone famously said after hearing of the Birmingham bombing. “Then Andy, my husband at the time, said to me, ‘Nina, you can’t kill anyone. You are a musician. Do what you do.’ When I sat down the whole song happened. I never stopped writing until the thing was finished.”
So, as we can see, it has took a long journey to arrive to our present days. But there’s hope. Nowadays, it’s blossoming a new speech that claims for diversity, social justice and sorority between each other. We can see it in marketing, brands, films, songs, etc. who also embrace people with disabilities or singular health issues.
One example is the inclusive barbie, who’s creators had made in the recent years. This barbie uses a chair in wheels, fitting with the role model some girls may need because of their circumstances. There are also barbies with leg prothesis or vitiligo, a skin condition that creates depigmentation in the skin.
So is happening in films, where the footage are being increasingly inclusive with people of color or discriminate groups of people, as disable people. In fact, this year, the Oscars delivered the best supporting actor award to Daniel Kaluuya (for the film Judas and the Black Messiah) and the best director award to Clohé Zhao (for the film Nomadland). She was born in Beijing but moved in America very young when she started college.
But, how this type of discrimination takes place in quotidian daily routine?
Black women and pregnancy
It is know that the rate of birth-death in women of color is higher than white women or Latin women. Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native (AI/AN) women are two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, according to the CDC newsroom (the web page of Centers for Disease control and prevention).
The reasons about it are multiple. But the first one is the lack of interest in these patients due to their discrimination. Doctors around the U.S. seems to stop less attention to the obliged medical procedures of pregnancy, e.g. postponing visits to the doctor - increasingly during the pandemic - and to have a tendency be less careful to watch over the mother health and her baby as well, e.g. during ultrasounds.
But is not only a technical problem, the perspective of obstetric doctors at the moment to face a new case of pregnancy changes completely when the race of the patient shows off - excluding cultural background, social status and economic level achieved and kept. So often they misjudge their symptom, minimize or discredit so “it has to be a normal thing what you have”.
Dr. Allison Bryant Mantha, vice chair of quality, equity and safety in the obstetrics and gynecology department of Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston says in a report from February 20th 2019 for the American Hearth Association digital magazine:
"Racism affects, so many things before the patient even gets to the clinical encounter," she said. "Both implicit bias and structural racism affect how women are cared for in the health care system."
In the same report, Dr. Ana Langer, director of the Women and Health Initiative at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, says:
"It's basically a public health and human rights emergency because it's been estimated that a significant portion of these deaths could be prevented".
Black American judicial system
The criminal justice system in America is well known to be very biased. And not everyone has the same rights to defense themself during the court or to mediate the rate time they will spend in prison. And there is, as well, some tendencies to prejudice by not being fair some minorities.
According to The Sentencing Project, in a digital article published April 19th 2018, called Report to the United Nations on Racial Disparities in the U.S. Criminal Justice System, they manifest and criticized how even nowadays judicial system in America is so unfair for Black People.
But what is more hopelessly is the difficulty to reform a system where there is so much work to do, beginning with police, pretrial and sentencing structures. Jorge Floyd case, has reopen the lemma "Black Lives Matter", but could this movement revise and rebuilt the damage already done?
To finish, we have to take in a consideration some data from the virtual post, as they claim justice had never begun for Black People in America. They say as a claiming protest:
African Americans are more likely than white Americans to be arrested; once arrested, they are more likely to be convicted; and once convicted, and they are more likely to experience lengthy prison sentences. African-American adults are 5.9 times as likely to be incarcerated than whites and Hispanics are 3.1 times as likely. As of 2001, one of every three black boys born in that year could expect to go to prison in his lifetime, as could one of every six Latinos—compared to one of every seventeen white boys. Racial and ethnic disparities among women are less substantial than among men but remain prevalent.
Black people in the job market
Other type of discrimination that suffers black community in the stigma of being black in a work place. In fact, in the country, black people are twice probable to be unemployed than white people. But, this phenomenon is something that also occurs in other countries such the British Island.
BBC made a report in April 14th 2021 to a 21 years old Mary Ibiyemi from Glasgow who lost her job in a takeaway last year because her employer "just couldn't keep me on anymore" in the pandemic as the post says.
She then spent fruitless months looking for jobs, a time when her self-esteem "just went down”, continues explaining the 21 young girl to the media
"My surname isn't one a lot of people can pronounce, and I feel employers are more likely to skip over it," were one of the sentences delivered to the reporters.
She explains herself:
"I feel if you're from the black or Asian communities, if you have a hard-sounding name then they are less likely to take the time to get to know the person, the pronunciation and try to work with you as a person."
Bayer and Charles, as well, reported indeed a graphic with black and white differences in the work place. As they say, in 2017, the percentages were 17% white people were not working at that moment meanwhile 35% of black people - the double of the population - were unemployed as well. In face, even when black people achieve the goal of being employed they used to earn over nearly 25% less than their white companions.
When you think of traditional cooking it is impossible not to think of frying, which with endless variations, is present in all the kitchens of the world. It’s the most widely used technique.
After all, even if it’s not the healthiest choice, it’s really hard to resist a golden and crunchy fry.
But in recent years, the desire to eat in a more healthy and balanced way has also involved this widespread cooking technique, thanks to the air fryer. According to the most sceptical, and initially I was, it is an appliance different from the classic fryer and much more similar to a normal electric oven.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Its working principle is based on the use of heat instead of fats such as oil or butter. The air is heated to the ideal temperature and circulated at great speed in the cooking chamber of the machine to cook food evenly, leaving them dry and crunchy outside and soft inside.
It should be noted that even if in the technical sheets of the various products is indicated "without oil", for excellent results it is advisable to add a spoonful of oil. It’s still a small amount compared to the classic deep fryer.
IS IT HEALTHIER?
Yes, because air fryers require a much lower amount of fat.
The same producers say that this reduction can reach 75%, a very remarkable fact if we consider how widespread this method of cooking is.
The reduction concerns not only fat but also calorie intake. For example, if you want to lose a few extra pounds, changing the classic fryer with the air fryer can be the first step, without having to give up some whim.
Not only that but... During cooking with large amounts of fat it is possible that some compounds harmful to health such as acrylamide, considered by various studies related to oncological diseases. In air frying, the content of this compound is reduced by 90%.
So if what you’re looking for is a healthier diet, without having to give up fried food, the air fryer is a great choice always remembering that changing food and cooking techniques remains the best option for our health.
And that’s not all... We can say that it is even healthier for the environment because at the end of the various preparations we will not have those large quantities of exhausted oils, typical of the classic fryers, which are highly polluting.
IS IT EASY TO USE?
Definitely yes. It is simple to use because its operation is not very different from other appliances already present in our homes. Most models have a timer, which allows us to cook food while we are engaged in other activities. Besides, the absence of grease makes its cleaning much faster and more effective than other appliances. In almost all models some pieces are easy to pull out and dishwasher safe.
AND CONSUMPTIONS?
To assess consumption, it is essential to know what the consumer needs, such as capacity, because the size of the appliance and, consequently, the electricity consumption depends on it. The average value ranges from 800 to 2000 watts.
Another factor to take into account is the heating time, always reported in the product data-sheet. If the set temperature is quickly reached, consumption falls significantly.
Using hot air as a heat conductor should be remembered that you save in oil or fat, needed in large quantities in the classic fryer.
If we relate the consumption with the actual use of this appliance must be evaluated three parameters: model, capacity and frequency of use.
IS THE RESULT THE SAME?
At first, I too was quite sceptical about the results of this small appliance, but with the use, I was positively impressed.
The result although slightly different in texture, drier, is really good. The result changes from model to model, and there are many of them on the market but in most cases it’s satisfying.
The choice of food also affects the final result. For example with ultra-frozen foods the results are excellent, you get fried golden and crunchy.
HOW CAN I CHOOSE IT?
The choice of model depends on the needs of the consumer, especially concerning capacity, functions and frequency of use.
For example, often the cheapest models do not differ much in the quality of the result, but allow only limited preparations or have few functions and accessories available.
Another fundamental factor is power. A good fryer must be able to reach 200 degrees of temperature otherwise the results will not be satisfactory.
If we also want to pay attention to the aspect of energy consumption, it is important that the model we choose can heat up quickly. In the market, many models can reach the temperature set in 2 or 3 minutes and this allows energy and time savings.
Equally important for the choice of the model is the design and shape of the appliance. They are oval or rectangular, and certainly, the latter allows better exploitation of the internal space, without having to make layers of food.
In this type of models, we observe more homogeneous cooking. While those oval or rounded usually have designs and lines softer that make them more aesthetically pleasing and modern.
Besides, if there is not much space available, the type of charge can also influence the choice, which can be from the top or front. The latter is usually chosen by those who have no space limits in his kitchen.
It is obvious that the aesthetic taste affects the choice of the model, but for an appropriate choice, it is important to consider space and needs.
CAN I REALLY COOK ANY FOOD?
It is highly not recommended to use the air fryer to cook food in batter, with these the results are not at all good.
As far as the rest of the food is concerned, I have always been satisfied with the result. With the two models I tried I cooked meat, fish (the classic cod fillets were delicious), potatoes both fresh and frozen and in every size, vegetables and also various pre-cooked as cordon blue. I also prepared desserts but for these, I prefer the classic electric oven.
ARIETE AIRY FRYER 2,6L VS COSORI 5,5L
Until now, I have tried these two models of air fryer, different in both capacity and function, but both with excellent results.
Ariete Airy Fryer Digital
It has an excellent capacity/ price ratio, with its basket of 2.6 litres allows you to prepare 2-3 portions simultaneously. So it’s ideal for a couple or a small family.
It has a timer that allows a maximum cooking time of 60 minutes, more than enough considering that most preparations have a cooking time of 20-35 minutes.
It can reach a maximum temperature of 200 degrees, perfect for frying many foods.
It has a touchscreen display really simple to use and intuitive, and you have 7 preset programs available.
The basket can be removed easily for faster and more effective cleaning. In some cases, you can use a simple wet cloth or wash it in the dishwasher.
I tried it with every kind of food and I had excellent results both with the classic frozen chips and with fish meat and many other breaded preparations.
Besides, a small cookbook is included, with about twenty recipes both sweet and savoury, very useful for those who start to use this small appliance and maybe do not have many ideas.
The instruction booklet is also very simple, well written and with many images, very understandable even for those who, like me, are not very well versed in the use of technology.
Here, in addition to the explanation of the various preset programs and functions, there are also general tips for the correct use of the device.
Cooking times vary from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the food you want to prepare.
It’s ideal for those who have little time and are always in a hurry but still want to indulge in a whim.
As for the size is a compact appliance, also suitable for small brushes, and very light, not even 4 kg.
The model also has a mini version, for up to two portions, and a larger version if you need to cook for more people.
Only the capacity changes, while the functions and the drawing remain unchanged.
Air Fryer Cosori 5,5L
The second model that I recommend, and that I tried personally, is the COSORI 5.5L fryer. The change of appliance is not due to defects in the first model but to the need for greater capacity.
The COSORI fryer has a capacity of 5.5 litres, which allows you to prepare 5-6 portions simultaneously.
Besides, its square shape allows you to make the most of the basket, without having to overlap food and you get more uniform cooking.
It incorporates 11 preset programs for different foods, including various types of meat, fish, vegetables, vegetables, chips, frozen, cakes and bread.
Each comes with a cooking time and temperature suitable for the chosen food.
In addition to these programs, the COSORI deep fryer has some really useful extra functions.
For example, the KEEP WARM function, which I used a lot, allows maintaining a preparation at the ideal temperature when it has finished cooking. There will be no need to heat it, which can change the final texture of the food.
Another useful function, and that few air fryers have, is SHAKE.
The machine warns when it is time to mix food, so you can dedicate yourself to other activities during cooking without forgetting.
The COSORI fryer also has a protection mechanism against over-heating. In other words, the machine detects excessive effort and turns it off automatically to protect the engine. It is a very important function and that many air fryers do not have and provides excellent safety for both the consumer and the appliance.
Another feature that differentiates it from other air fryers on the market is the possibility to change the temperature and cooking time while the machine is in operation. It may seem trivial but in many other models, you have to wait for the end of the program or turn off and restart.
As for the materials, they are of excellent quality.
The interior is stainless steel and the basket is covered with non-stick material of excellent quality. Besides, almost all components are easily removable and dishwasher safe. The display is quite large, with clear and well-readable characters, as well as very intuitive to use.
Included are a booklet, really complete and simple, and a recipe book with many recipes, more than 100, ranging from appetizers to desserts. This latter accessory may seem obvious, but not all air fryers include such a complete manual.
I used it a lot, it gave me lots of ideas for new and tasty recipes.
COSORI also offers other interesting models, even if more expensive.
Among these, a smaller and compact version of 3.2 litres and another model with the same capacity of 5.5 litres with wifi technology.
With this version it is possible, thanks to an application, to control the appliance remotely with the mobile phone.
For example, you can turn it on and start cooking, stop it and activate the KEEP WARM function. Solution for those who have little time but do not want to give up a full meal.
The variety of models on the market is very wide and also as far as prices are found for all budgets.
If you are looking for a super complete model and high quality we will have to spend a little more.
With both models I tried, I was satisfied with the results that, even if they are not the same as those of a classic fryer, are worthy of note.
Moreover, it allows us to indulge some whim and not to give up the crunchiness of the fried food.
Now you just have to try and have fun with the recipes!
A sneaker brand supporting rebel fighters resisting a brutal regime. A motorbike helmet manufacturer supplying a gay parade running gauntlet between brick throwing extremists. An airline painting its transatlantic carriers with protests against overfishing.
EYE-PATCHES & KISSING NUNS
Brands flirting with controversy to push the limits of marketing is nothing new.
In early advertising, and generally regarded as an iconic piece of promotion, the story of ‘The Man in the Hathaway Shirt’ by Ogilvy for Hathaway shirts in the 50s, flirted with the concept of danger and adventure, represented by an aristocratic looking model wearing an eye patch.
Four decades later in the 90s, Benetton’s United Colours campaign by photographer Oliviero Toscani, was created without much visible linking to actual products. Images of a black woman breastfeeding a white baby, the deathbed of an AIDS victim, or a priest and a nun kissing, managed to position the Benetton brand through shock tactics.
Until suddenly, that didn’t work. Before our eyes, the brand seemingly sank in stature, and became just another clothes shop. But what happened?
Could it have been the result of Benetton not connecting its courageous marketing with a broader narrative. Or not having the brand make those bold images integral to its own story?
Instead the United Colours campaign floated off on its own, somehow orphaned by its parent company, which quickly began looking static and remote from the marketing.
COURAGE, TRUTH, HONOUR, FAITH
So how will brands differentiate themselves in the future? How will they lead and inspire, as consumers demand?
A key term has long been ‘consumer engagement’, and for consumers it’s hard to see the downside of being invited to participate in the life of their brands. But you could wonder how far consumer engagement can go. For can a brand remain inspiring if all its inner workings become public domain?
Surely, a brand lifting the surrounding veils, while its story increasingly is a result of audience consensus, will find it difficult to keep delivering surprise and excitement? Especially in the context of consumers expecting non-stop innovation and lightning-fast product life cycles.
As stakes rise in the effort to deliver novelty and value in order to rise above commoditization, it looks like rough seas ahead for many brands.
So, perhaps more will carve out new roles by aligning with volatile, politicized, and polarized issues to charge the surrounding air.
TALK THE TALK, WALK THE WALK
But when brands link their fates to the world around them, and don’t follow-up tough talk with tough action, claim relevance while just skimming the surface, construct narratives that promise good things in imaginary worlds and not in this one – such branding-as-usual activity may swiftly degrade their value.
For some brave brands, defining themselves in the real world may become the best way to navigate markets, while others, lacking the taste for thorny issues, will find the front lines too daunting and instead retreat to a quiet existence in the shade.
Will positioning by controversy then become the standard for branding? The buzz-words; engagement, innovation, accountability, connectability may inevitably wear out. But beneath them run deeper, timeless concepts such as courage, truth, honour, faith.
Perhaps the misjudgment of Benetton and its radical 90s advertising, was that the brand played with big themes and raw emotion - without accountability.
SUPERMAN IS DEAD, LONG LIVE SUPERMAN!
As for us consumers. What do we really want?
Global institutions we’ve created and for decades trusted to solve global challenges, often seem to exist in some void where they lack presence in, and clout over, consumption-driven cultures. They’re often unable to overcome narrow political interests, suffer from lack of courage and vision, and fail to convert all their good intentions.
So, will we instead start demanding of our brands that they stop camouflaging as neutral, and instead show us real world solutions?
Is expecting the work of the UN, the IMF, the Red Cross, etc., to be done by corporations, a sad development, just natural evolution, or something to sing about?
For brands themselves, bold opinions can be a minefield, but bold opinions without bold action might be much worse.
Image from Stephen Marc
Since the beginning of 2020, Covid-19 has started spreading worldwide, almost through all countries.
Many countries are still fighting against the Sars-CoV-2: the virus which causes Covid-19.
To reduce the spread of infection many countries decided to introduce total or partial lockdowns. Only a few and essential businesses were allowed to continue working.
The Covid-19 pandemic is believed to have originated in a wildlife market in Wuhan, a densely populated city in China. The earliest reported cases involved mainly workers from the wildlife market in Wuhan where fish and other animals, including live ones, were sold.
In the first weeks of January 2020, scientists identified strange pneumonia caused by a new coronavirus: the Sars-CoV-2.
Wildlife markets were closed in January 2020 in China due to Covid-19 and the country’s national legislature in February temporarily banned the hunting, trade, and eating of non-aquatic wild animals.
In April 2020 the Human Society International urged the World Health Organization to require the worldwide closure of all wildlife markets and to stop or limit the wildlife trade.
The pandemic is dramatically affecting also the economy and many countries are spiraling into the worst economic crisis since World War Two.
Mental health professionals have revealed that the measures of social distancing adopted by several countries are generating anxiety and psychological effects on many people.
Not only human beings are affected by the pandemic. According to the World Organisation for Animal Welfare (OIE), also animals are victims of the pandemic.
Covid-19 has an impact on the health and welfare of almost all species of animals including laboratory and wildlife animals.
Dr. Neil Reid, Senior Lecturer in Conservation Biology at Queen's University in Belfast, underlined the impact of coronavirus and of lockdowns on animals.
The quarantine restrictions have contributed to reducing human disturbance and increasing wild animals' movements in towns.
During the pandemic social media have posted pictures and videos of mountain goats taking over Welsh towns, wild boars walking along Diagonal Avenue in Barcelona and a large crowd of monkeys brawling over a pot of yogurt in a street in Thailand.
Other species of animals may thrive when human beings are on lockdown. Less herbicide spraying and road verge cutting during the quarantine could allow wildflowers to multiply and weed species to grow. Insects on larval stages, like caterpillars, could find more food around and refuge but also be easy prey for invertebrates and birds. As another result, Dr. Neil Reid stated that the lock-down might also ease the sightings of more bees and butterflies in the summer.
To prevent future pandemics most of the experts warn that the human being needs to drastically change his relationship with animals, in particular with wildlife and farm animals.
In April 2020 the Covid-19 Thematic Platform on Animal Welfare was established to research and control the impact of the pandemic on various species of animals.
The Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise ‘Giuseppe Caporale’ (IZSAM) in Italy, invited several global institutions to join a Thematic Platform (EmVetNet) to start a veterinary emergency forum.
The main goal of EmVetNet is to provide to members of OIE (Organizzazione Mondiale della Sanità Animale) advice and technical assistance, to promote the sharing of knowledge and best practices, training, and evaluation on the pandemic emergency and on its impact on animal health.
Last August the EmVetNet started collecting some interesting data about the effects of the pandemic on animal welfare by conducting online surveys and research.
Several online surveys were taken in 118 countries. The collected data have shown that the pandemic is having effects in order of size on pets, wildlife and aquatic animals, laboratory animals, on draft animals, on the zoo and exhibit animals, and lastly on equines.
Animals play a relevant role in our society. They are part of our food chain, often they live with us, and sometimes they are our co-workers.
Covid-19 has had significant effects also on the food production sector. The meat trade was disrupted during the pandemic and people drastically reduced the consumption of meat, preferring more basic ingredients like flour and eggs. Sales of plant-based meats and tofu have exponentially grown since the beginning of the Coronavirus.
Overcrowding on farms has been another effect due to the pandemic. The diets of farm animals have been changed to slow their growth and, in the worst-case, many have been culled.
Companion animals have also suffered the effects of Covid-19. In some countries, people have abandoned their pets frightened by the transmissibility of the virus from-animals-to-humans.
In the field of laboratory animal medicine, many research institutions had to temporarily shut down their facilities.
Diverse zoos started suffering from lower income due to the lockdown, unable to provide food and maintenance costs for their animals. Some zoos were obliged to shut down and others are still struggling for the lack of visitors.
Based on the latest available information, the risk of animals spreading Covid-19 to people is considered to be quite low. In most circumstances, it was stated that people can infect animals.
Sars-CoV-2 spreads from person to person mainly via respiratory droplets, from coughing, sneezing, and talking.
However, further studies are still needed to precisely understand if and how different animals could be affected by Covid-19.
We know that cats, dogs, and some other mammals can be infected with Sars-CoV-2, but we don’t know yet if all of the species of animals can get infected.
There have been reports of animals being infected with the virus worldwide. A small number of cats and dogs have been infected with Sars-CoV-2 in several countries.
In April 2020, the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the first cases of Sars-CoV-2 on two cats living in separate homes in New York. The owner of one of the two cats was previously tested positive for the virus.
In June 2020 a dog was tested positive after his owner was found sick with Covid-19. Veterinarians believe those companion animals are not particularly susceptible to Sars-CoV-2, and so far cats seem to be at a higher risk than dogs.
One ferret was reported positive for Sars-CoV-2 in Slovenia last year. Most of these pets became sick after they had contact with infected people.
As reported by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), the first case of an animal positive for Covid-19 was a wild mink tested positive around an infected mink farm in Utah.
Later other cases of animals tested positive for Sars-CoV-2 were reported in the USA as a tiger at a New York Zoo, a puma in South Africa, a tiger in a Tennessee Zoo, a snow leopard at a Kentucky Zoo, and three gorillas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in California.
Several animals in zoos have tested positive for Sars-CoV-2, including large cats and great apes.
It is suspected that these animals became sick after being exposed to zoo employees with Covid-19, despite taking any precautions.
Sars-CoV-2 has been reported in mink fur on farms also in the Netherlands, Denmark, France, Spain, Sweden, Lithuania, Greece, Poland, and Italy.
Last November, Denmark announced it would cull 15 million mink on fur farms after a mutated version of the virus was found in some animals. In the Netherlands, authorities also preventatively killed millions of pups mink on fur farms affected by Covid-19.
The Netherlands is the fourth-largest producer of mink fur after Denmark, Poland, and China.
Recent experimental studies show that also ferrets, fruit bats, hamsters, and tree shrews can get infected with the virus. They can spread the infection to other animals of the same species in laboratory settings.
According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention in the USA, collected data from recent studies suggest that dogs can get infected but might not spread the virus to other dogs. Cats and ferrets instead can spread the virus to other animals of the same species.
Other studies on non-human primates underline that rhesus macaques, cynomolgus macaques, grivets, and common marmosets can become infected with Sars-CoV-2. Based on recent research in the laboratory instead, mice, pigs, chickens, and ducks do not seem to become infected or spread the infection.
People with Covid-19 can spread the virus to some animals during close contact. It is important for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to avoid contact with pets and other animals to protect them from the infection.
It is expected that this Covid pandemic will not be the last.
More global pandemics may be to come in the future. Any pandemic has negative effects on people, animals and our planet. Constant research on the subject can definitely help us to influence and control its effects.
The studies conducted by EmVetNet have shown that working in partnership with other educational institutes can effectively bring values to the research and help to learn and report the unknown effects of a global disaster like Covid-19.
The human population, now 7 billion, is expected to grow to up to 11 billion by the end of this century. According to many scientists, the increase of population density and consequently the increase of his consumption, together with habitat destruction, exploitation of wild species, higher human population densities can be the perfect ingredients for future pandemics.
Valuing our environment and converting to a green global future is definitely the answer to protect the whole ecosystem from the risk of pandemics.
Hopefully, this is one of the lessons the human being has learned from Covid-19.
Investment is a limitless financial plan that everyone should have a basic knowledge about it at a certain point in life.
Unfortunately, we almost didn’t learn the investment mindset at school or even at home.
So, if you’re just now getting started with investing in your third decade or you think to do some investment steps in the coming days, welcome!, you are on the right path.
I will share with you the best 5 tips to begin as a smart investor in your thirties and follow Mr. Warren Buffet strategy.
1. Invest In Your Health Before Everything
I know health is not in my field here, but seriously!, the first step toward your future wealth is to invest in yourself. I mean physical, mental health. We know deeply that investment is a wide topic which intends to improve our future being in several sides not only a financial one.
Furthermore, when we talk about investment in a wise way, we automatically should expect that it will be up and down depending on the capital market policies and nothing is perfect in the end. So, our health is the best investing strategy now and tomorrow.
2. Invest In Quality Life Insurance
Most people disregard the importance of life insurance but it is very necessary because it covers the families and helps you to leave them a non-taxable amount at the death.
Thankfully the 30-year life insurance plans are not very expensive, you can conveniently buy online any premium life insurance according to your convenience.
3. Establish A College Saving Plan For Your Kids
As we all know that nowadays, colleges are not very cheap.
If you are not starting investment to establish a college fund for your kids then it can also affect your child’s education as well as your financial status which is not a good thing.
For this purpose, it is possible to make an account for college savings and put some money in it every month.
Based on the U.S. Department of education results, in an annual survey last year (2020), the average tuition ranged from $41,446 for private colleges to $11,290 for state colleges.
After all, in the future, college costs are going to be higher, and the college savings plan will be a wise investment for your kids.
4. Invest in international stock and bonds (balanced, hybrid funds)
When we talk about stock and bond investing, it’s not necessary to pass through all the process by yourself.
But there are many mutual fund’s holdings over the capital world with high investment knowledge and experts wolves of Wall Street will work for you.
As one of many investors, the mutual fund company will collect the money from you ($2500 minimum) and invest it in short-run- range debt, bonds, and stocks.
As a result of that, each investor will own a legal share as a real part of that fund's holding.
5. Gold Investment
Historically, gold was and still a hedge against almost any type of trouble, from financial crisis to wars.
Over this period of the Covid-19 pandemic, a lot of big economies, as well as markets, got crashed while gold was kept in a stable value.
So we realize that gold is the strongest asset in your bad days or even your hard years, and it’s your winning card to safeguard your investment for the long term.
Moreover, all future military, space, or even civil industries are in real need of gold as the main source for every light speed technology.
As well, the cheapest way to purchase gold is in bullion form or bars as most smart investors do, and you will be lucky if you could deal with a real bank dealer from Hong Kong.
6. Antiques and Artifacts
Investing a part of your money in antique collectibles like paintings, sculptures, old coins can be a smart way to combine investing with passion.
Investing in material assets has become a priority for many investors, and central banks are pumping trillions of dollars into the financial system for this lucrative market.
So, selling- buying antique pieces and collectibles is like investing in a mine of diamond that in a short time you’ll make your real fortune.
7. Your Investment Portfolio
If you are investing in the share market, then you have to make a diversified portfolio.
In the share market, there are many sectors like the banking sector, IT sector, the energy sector, and tobacco, so you have to put the leaders of that sector in your portfolio.
When you invest your dollars in the leading companies of the country, then, there is a very less chance that you lose your money.
After some time you will receive a handsome return on your whole portfolio.
But, keep in mind to limit your portfolio investment between 5-10% in every part, depending on your willingness to risk and your situation as a newbie investor or an expert one.
At 30, when you look back at your college years, you figure out how many changes happened in your life, especially that financial change. As such, it means that when you intend to invest in your 30s, there is a distinct mentality.
An old quote said:” The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today”.
Based on that, some naysayers will try to stop you for no reason and try to convince you that you’re too late to invest your money.
Just don’t listen to anyone because the most important is that you start.
Image from Omar Hadad
Today, earning money at home is pretty simple.
What matters most now is to be able to choose the ideal job from among the many home-based jobs that the development of digital technology has made possible.
This job, which will allow you to enjoy your free time while earning a lot of money at the same time.
Making money by working at home always brings several advantages. It is a very interesting option to create real cash from home, especially after many employees lost their jobs because of the Corona pandemic.
How to make money at home?
Here are some easy tips and ideas those will help you figure out how to make dollars at home, from the comfort of your office, or even from your bedroom.
Earn money by working on the internet
Many types of jobs exist on the web. For example, you can become a writer or a web editor at home. You write columns or articles for a website, and you receive money for your articles.
Working on the internet is the best option to earn a cash directly from home, no 8 to 5 routine, and no boss to order you all the day.
Become a web developer/graphic designer/ programmer at home
Yes, it is quite possible to make money at home by offering your services as a web developer or graphic designer.
You just need to be a real computer enthusiast, mastering new technologies. You must also have basic knowledge in creating websites from A to Z, some programming languages like HTML, C++, JAVA, and producing graphic elements such as banners, logos, product design...
To top it all off, having excellent qualities in web or mobile applications programming, predisposes you to work as much as you want, with big software and programming companies. The fact that the demand for programming freelancers is high.
To help you find a job in these fields, you should know that most freelance developers, graphic designers and webmasters are very present on the Codeur.com platform.
All you have to do is register as a service provider (freelancer) on platforms such 99design.com, for graphic designers, specify your skills, provide some information about your experiences, post some work samples and offer quotes to people looking for your services.
Blogging and content writing
If you're passionate about writing, blogging, or content writing is the perfect side job that will allow you to earn money at home.
You are comfortable writing texts or poems that get positive feedback from your readers, that's enough to get you started.
Many websites exist and are looking for freelance writers daily to feed their blogs with web content on a fairly regular basis. It's easy to get started.
You can search on Google by entering terms like "freelance writer gigs", “content editor job", etc.
You can also send emails to different advertisers and content marketing agencies to offer them your skills.
The most popular platform, if you are a new freelance writer, is Upwork. Go there and type the term "content writer" in the find work category, you will then realize that there are a lot of ads from people looking for freelance writers with different levels of expertise.
You can find other platforms like Freelancer, Fiverr, People per hour. It is an ideal solution to gain financial independence.
Virtual Tutoring: Sell Your Expertise
Virtual tutoring is a smart personal method to earn cash by sharing your expertise in the subject.
Tutoring sessions are typically one-on-one affairs, unlike online classes, which are open to dozens or even hundreds of paying clients at a time. You can have as many students as your timetable requires.
To provide online teaching, stick to subjects you know well to increase your chances of success as an online teacher.
Use a reputable and high-visibility venue, schedule your sessions sensibly, rate your services in line with the industry, follow the best practice scheduling, and choose a platform that focuses specifically on tutoring, such as Chegg, VIP kid, education first.
Translation: Sell Your Language Skills
With the progression of the internet, the possibility to make money easily becomes a reality.
If you are a bilingual, trilingual, or multilingual text translator, you can make an extra income every month if you have a good level in the field of English-French, French-Spanish translation.
For many years now, many people have been discovering the online text translator service, and have been practicing this job as their main occupation or as a secondary job to improve their monthly income.
To be able to make money as an online translator, all you need is a good level of translation, to master at least two languages, and have a computer, internet connection at home.
To start making money remotely as a text translator, you should visit one of the freelance translation sites such as Gengo, Pro-Translating, One Hour Translation.
Make product demonstrations
Several in-home demonstrations exist to earn money from the house. Whether it is demonstrations of clothing or jewelry, new dishes, or even erotic products!
There are also more current companies or Instagram pages that hire people to do home demonstrations, no doubt you will find some near you.
You may have to travel occasionally, but demonstrating and selling products is one of the best ways to make money at home.
Start Drop-shipping and selling online
Drop-shipping is one of the trendiest activities when it comes to doing business online.
A few years ago, it was useful to have stocks at home or in a warehouse, to be able to sell physical goods. With drop-shipping, things become different, and the approach changes completely.
All you have to do is create an online store and sell your products. You won't need any stock, your supplier will deliver the products directly to you.
With an online store like Shopify, you will be an intermediary that will fill your pockets by selling products to many customers on the internet.
A good organization of your activity, a good knowledge of dropshipping techniques, and you're at the head of a big business that will make you happy and rich.
With dropshipping, what is even more interesting is that you do not manage the deliveries and the returns of the customers.
You don't need to buy a lot of products without being sure whether you will sell them or not. The products are with your supplier who will always send them on demand.
Make telephone appointments
Some companies are looking for people who will work from home to do work over the phone.
The goal is to find potential future clients over the phone. There is also the profession of home secretary, which can be an excellent way to balance family life and work by staying at home.
Data entry and documents at home
Many employers may be looking for people who will type information or collect reports and letters from home.
This service also is called data entry work which is ideal for moms who wish to have a flexible schedule job to earn money at home by working on the Internet.
Depending on the skills you have, you can certainly work on your own from home. Whether you are a computer programmer, seller, hairdresser, accountant, or other, there is always a way to go on your own.
But beware, you will then be considered self-employed, you will have to declare your income and register your business to be legal.
The year just ended brought to light a theme that for many had been overcome: racism.
In the USA in particular, it continues to be a cause of contrasts and tensions, also because of the takeover of the new president, the Democrat Joe Biden. His actions as a government will certainly be influenced by racism and its nuances.
It’s in this climate of tension and uncertainty that moves Black Lives Matter, a movement born in 2013 as a hashtag, following the acquittal of George Zimmerman, a vigilante who had shot and killed the African-American teenager Travyon Martin.
In 2014, they moved their protests to the streets. Demonstrations were held in Ferguson and New York for the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner, caused by an excessively violent police action.
Since 2014 more than a thousand events are organized to get to know the world the situation of hardship and discrimination in which African Americans live and to push politics to concretely change their actions in a perspective of pluriculturalism, respecting the dignity of all citizens, regardless of the colour of their skin.
In 2020, a news story went around the world, those images and those words will remain in the history of the United States.
In Minneapolis, George Floyd is brutally murdered by the police. For eight minutes and 46 seconds, one of the officers locks him down with a knee on his neck while George begs for his life. "I can’t breathe", repeated 20 times, becomes the new motto of the BLM movement and of all those associations that have always fought for human rights and against the growing, and often disproportionate, police violence.
In the case of George Floyd, it’s quite clear that the agents' intervention has been totally disproportionate to the threat, but every day there are similar events, where even if less violent, the discriminatory element is strong.
However, this has had repercussions all over the world, events are organized in all the big cities, both in Europe and in Asia and Australia. In the United States the protests create many riots and the climate, already hot, is even warmer.
The case of Floyd was a massive detonator in a very serious crisis, in which the pandemic worsened the condition of the African-American population. It should be remembered that the predominantly black neighbourhoods have been suffering for a long time from excessive housing density, a condition that aggravates the spread of Covid-19.
In addition to the worldwide consensus for the BLM movement, there was no lack of criticism, especially from the republican front, represented by Trump who was harsh against the demonstrations, just as harsh were the responses of the Police and National Guard. Other protagonists were the extreme right-wing non-governmental groups, some linked to the Ku Klux Klan and white suprematism, who intervened armed in the protests.
Donald Trump himself criminalized the movement, calling it a symbol of hatred, and took advantage of the climate of insecurity to win votes.
Other criticisms, perhaps more veiled and less violent, concern the name of the same movement. Many of the protesters claim it contains implicit discrimination against whites. In other words, it criticizes the fact that apparently according to the movement, the lives of African Americans are worth more than those of other ethnic groups.
In this regard, the founders were asked to change the name to "All Lives Matter".
This proposal was obviously rejected because changing the name of the movement would mean denying that there is structural racism in modern American society.
The name issue was also exploited by then-President Donald Trump. On some public occasions, in fact, he uses the motto "Blue Lives Matter" to defend the action of police officers, describing it as self-defence in the face of the continuous attacks they receive.
STRUCTURAL RACISM
Racism is the basis of the struggle of many movements and groups in recent years. It is a much more subtle, less visible racism, which is based on prejudice but which influences many aspects of daily life, including the relationship with state offices and institutions.
A society built on these bases will accept, as natural and immutable, inequality between ethnic groups.
For example, in most large American cities (and not only) there is an invisible barrier between white neighbourhoods and those occupied primarily by blacks.
In these same cities, the African-American population finds enormous difficulties in accessing basic services, such as health and education.
Besides, a fundamental theme for the Black Lives Matter movement, the behaviour of the authorities often changes due to the colour of the skin.
Law enforcement agencies focus more on African-American and Latin people, leading in some cases to outright abuse of authority and persecution.
These issues seemed obsolete when in 2009, Barack Obama, the first African American to hold this post, was elected President of the United States.
Shortly after the tragic murder of Floyd, Obama wrote in his social media accounts that he was extremely grieved and refutes what the BLM movement has been saying for a long time, that millions of Americans, every day, are treated differently only because of the colour of their skin.
Obama represented an important symbolic recognition of the black community, but this has not been accompanied over the years by a concrete change in social conditions and the perception of a specific ethnic group.
Even today, the United States is strongly marked by established forms of racism and perhaps has worsened as a result of political speeches such as those made by Donald Trump, often focused on differences and violence.
After all, many historians say that racism is at the origin of American democracy, founded on slavery.
This has shaped the American society to this day, a society where, according to statistics, an African-American has three times as many chances of being killed by the police as white people, 99% of the agents who killed black people got away with it.
HOW TO BE AN ANTIRACIST (IBRAM X. KENDI)
In 2020, The Times included Ibram X. Kendi among the 100 most influential people in the world.
In his work "How to Be an Antiracist" a sentence perfectly sums up the writer’s thought on this phenomenon, so rooted in American history: "Racial inequality is a problem of bad policy, not bad people".
Kendi does not limit himself to outlining the characteristics of structural racism, in fact, he proposes to found a Department of Antiracism that would have the aim of controlling that policies, federal, local and state are not offensive or discriminatory but inclusive towards all ethnic groups in the territory.
His work is included among the bestsellers and is described by critics as the bravest of recent years because it not only describes the phenomenon but researches the causes, accusing politicians of being the first responsible, with its continuous messages of hatred, the spread and radicalisation of structural racism
His work as a writer is as much appreciated as his activist personality, whose activity also includes training and education initiatives in schools and universities, where he tries to spread his message that the courage of individuals is the real engine of change.
DOES VIOLENT RACISM STILL EXIST?
Although the most extreme ideologies of Nazism and racism are no longer accepted morally by the majority of the population, still today, there are many associations, groups and parties that promote some of the messages on which they based their theories.
It ranges from white nationalism to right-wing extremism represented for example by the supremacists.
These movements exist in all countries and, although they do not find enough consensus to be able to heavily influence the political action of governments, in times of great crisis such as the one we are experiencing, their activity increases' and notoriety. The feeling of insecurity leads people to follow these movements, which very often ride discontent to assert their ideas.
The decline and irregular development of the consensus of nationalist and supremacist movements is primarily caused by a greater awareness on the subject, we already know the consequences of the political action of movements linked to extremism, both right and left.
Besides, if it is true that nowadays even political action finds consensus on the web, there are many social media and sites that do not allow the publication of racist content.
Another element that has made these movements difficult is that their ideologies often result attractive to many personalities not quite balanced, who see in them the opportunity to create disorder in society.
In 2016, some demographic and political research was done to understand the real extent of the phenomenon. The result was surprising, in fact, it came to light that as many as 30 groups related to the infamous Ku Klux Klan are still present and active in the territory. The KKK has between 5000 and 8000 members, to these must be added all those supporters and financiers who choose to remain anonymous.
Despite being considered illegal in the United States, it still plays an active role in political affairs. Its members claim to be extremely tied to traditions and to want to preserve the superiority of the white race, many come to define other ethnicities as a real danger. According to its members, this need is now more urgent than ever, because of the increasing migratory flows.
No doubt with Donald Trump’s election as President, the supremacist groups multiplied their presence, showing a growth of 30%. In 2018 there were 954 registered groups.
Suffice it to say that in the KKK’s official magazine, The Crusader, a week after the elections, an article of praise appeared to Donald Trump. Then the editor of the newspaper said that it was not a question of political support, but approval of immigration policies. The same dissent was communicated by Trump’s staff, but without a doubt, the extreme right is a well-rooted side of the President. This is confirmed by the choice of a figure like Steve Bannon as an advisor, known all over the world for his extreme political positions.
But the KKK is not the only one responsible for spreading the supremacist message. There are many parties and associations which, although not openly racist, maintain links with the most extremist groups. In this context, the figure of Richard B. Spencer, who since 2021 has headed the National Policy Institute, is important.
In this context, the figure of Richard B. Spencer, who since 2021 has headed the National Policy Institute, is important. The purpose of this independent organization, according to them, is 'to protect the culture and 'white identity' and always using their own words, claim to be a fundamental part of the international alternative right.
The phenomenon is obviously not exclusive to the United States. In fact, in all continents, there are many similar groups and movements, ranging from white nationalism to suprematism.
In Europe, in particular, in the north, numerous groups of skinheads are active. The members enter these movements in the young age, in the adolescence, attracted perhaps by the sense of strength that these transmit and not less important is the sense of belonging, that is, the young person feels an active part of something.
In addition to these groups considered illegal, especially those that are not limited to political action but organize punitive expeditions and attacks, many parties of the extreme right and the alternative right have seen their electorate grow. For example, Germany is slowly reorganizing groups inspired by Nazi ideals.
One of these, Alternative for Germany (Afd), in 2015 managed to get seats in the Parliament of Bavaria, one of the richest areas of the nation.
Other faces belonging to the nationalist right are Marine Le Pen in France, Matteo Salvini and Giorgia Meloni in Italy and Viktor Orban, president of Hungary since 2010. It must be said that the latter do not praise suprematist policies but tend more towards sovereignism and nationalism.
White nationalism is strong, and little mentioned in the chronicles, even in Australia, which has officially abandoned the policy of "White Australia" only in 1973. But the phenomenon is returning to prominence thanks to the industrial group of Murdoch, as well as the fact that they are not at all prepared for cultural pluralism.
It is beyond doubt that racism and white suprematism, while not being morally accepted and highly criticized, enjoy the support of a part of politics because they are movements capable of gathering the discontent of the population and welcoming it within them. At that point, just the most moderate right seeks links with those movements to exploit discontent and insecurity for electoral purposes. This phenomenon has no borders, it’s a mechanism that has proven its effectiveness all over the world.
In such a tense climate, in which politics only look to electoral consensus, in which ethics and ideology can sell out for a few extra seats, the question arises: is it more responsible who follows or who leads?
This last year will surely be included in the history books.
Who would have thought of living a pandemic? It was like being in a science fiction movie. And if in a first phase fear was accompanied by hope, union and the desire to overcome the moment, then many other emotions emerged, mostly negative.
Frustration and impotence because in addition to acting responsibly each of us could do very little. Added to this, is the fear of falling ill and losing family and friends.
SOME DATA…
Both the advanced economies and the emerging economies likely have to look downwards at their growth estimates made before the pandemic, but some of them saved themselves from the negative sign, such as China, because they showed exponential growth in previous years.
According to the projections, which can be consulted in detail on the web page of the International Monetary Fund, the world average growth will be -4,4%.
And if this is more optimistic than the IMF predicted in the first phase of the pandemic, many economists argue that all the progress made since the 1990s in reducing poverty and inequality will be erased.
It is estimated that almost 90 million people could fall into extreme poverty. This figure could also worsen if we consider that most governments have put in place emergency manoeuvres, such as subsidies and a ban on dismissal, which are not economically viable in the long run.
Once the resources dedicated to these emergency measures are exhausted, millions of people will no longer have economic revenue.
The consequences of the global crisis are also very evident in the field of work. In both advanced and emerging economies, the unemployment tax will rise dramatically.
The numbers are really shocking, we are talking about millions more unemployed than the previous year. This is also a fact that could be worse than expected because among the emergency policies many States have included the ban on dismissal. When this measure expires, the estimates are not positive.
The sectors most affected are trade, tourism, catering, artistic activities, culture and entertainment but in an increasingly interconnected economy, all areas have been affected.
No less important, also for an assessment of the economic situation, are the numbers related to the spread of the virus.
According to the experts, these are numbers that underestimate the real spread because it is difficult, if not impossible, for many States to take into account new cases, deaths and healings.
It’s what happens on the African continent or in some countries in Central and South America, where there are areas where the authorities also ignore the number of inhabitants or other important demographic data.
But to get an idea of the gravity of the phenomenon it is possible to refer to the numbers reported by the WHO, according to which the confirmed cases, updated to 12 January 2020, are 89,416,559. This figure includes the deceased who are 1,935,028.
Most of the positive cases result from family contagion, most likely the meetings on the occasion of the Christmas holidays have significantly worsened the data. The lack of available data does not allow us to perfectly outline the characteristics of this Coronavirus, such as the rate of morbidity and lethality.
This is quite difficult to calculate precisely because of the high number of asymptomatic, but the specialists consider that the new SARS-Cov-2 probably generates the death of 0.5%-1% of the infected individuals.
The certain fact is that this percentage will be greater in people of advanced age while most of the asymptomatic are found in the age group under the 40 years.
HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE OF THE CRISIS
All economic problems inevitably affect the psychological well-being of the individual and consequently increases the risk of social instability. The latter also affects an increasingly marked inequality.
In other words, the world of luxury has not seen significant changes while the middle and lower classes have seen a drastic decrease, if not totally, their income and their purchasing power even for goods of primary need.
Uncertainty, fear of losing their jobs and consequently economic stability leads the individual to question his abilities. It’s normal to ask yourself what will happen and whether you will be able to face the challenges of the future, such as finding a new job or having to start in a completely unknown sector.
The pressure is even stronger if you include in the equation the concern for your family. Not only do you fear for your own future, but also for that of your own children.
Although all governments have put in place subsidies and aid to avoid the excessive impoverishment of the population, the feeling that prevails is that of uncertainty, there is no long-term perspective.
This feeling starts from the economic field but undoubtedly affects the psychology of the individual and the community of belonging.
Another factor to consider is the feeling of loneliness. There are many cases in which the necessary physical distance also becomes emotional and social. The person is often faced with conflicting feelings, that is, he understands the necessity of the various impositions but at the same time feels violated their personal freedom, that of socializing in the first place.
Experts say in this respect that the use of technologies was of paramount importance.
The need, natural of the human, to communicate and relate has found a valid ally in computers, tablets and smartphones. The isolation has been greatly mitigated by these instruments.
Many people have been overwhelmed by the situation. Although no precise data has been collected due to the health emergency, there is no doubt that requests for psychological help are increasing.
Professionals have in fact shown a significant increase in psychological discomfort. Among the disorders that more than others have shown a significant increase are stress disorders, anxiety disorders, hypochondria and some obsessive-compulsive disorders. Psychotherapy, even in healthy individuals, can be a great help to overcome the moment.
On the other hand, the economic crisis caused by the pandemic can also be a trigger for social and riot crises.
The measures put in place, limiting personal freedoms, have unleashed in certain groups of the population of opposition conduct, such as riots and demonstrations.
There were very many movements that took to the streets to express their dissent, both in the name of personal freedoms (no-vax, no mask, deniers) and in the name of an economic recovery always postponed.
This attitude was much more evident in the second half of 2020 because health concern has given way to concern about the worsening economic and employment crisis.
In fact, the negationist movements, present for years but with different shades, have found fertile ground in the climate, now growing, of desperation and uncertainty.
MODELS IN COMPARISON
The year 2020 highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the two main political, economic and social models: the East, of which China was the main representative, and the West. The latter has not followed a single path in the fight against Covid-19, just think of how many different answers have been given in Europe.
In the West, both in Europe and in the USA, the population has in its recent history no pandemic episodes, as opposed to many eastern states.
Since the 1950s, in fact, they have faced numerous pandemics: Asia (1957-58), Hong Kong flu (1968), SARS (2002-04), Avian Flu (2005-06), MERS (2012).
The fact of already having experience in the fight against diseases has not only made their health system more efficient and faster, but the populations have a total perception of the phenomenon and the consequent impositions.
This is another huge difference between the two models. In Western society, hyperindividualism reigns supreme, while in Eastern society, which in most cases identifies itself with socialism, the common good is a supreme value, so that any renunciation becomes a moral duty towards the community of belonging.
From this conception derives also a different vision of civil and personal freedom. For example, in China, negative movements are virtually non-existent.
However, it should be remembered that, because of its undemocratic structure, the government can impose greater limits and controls on individual freedoms than would be acceptable in most Western countries.
In fact, at the same time, in many European and American capitals, we have seen an increasing number of demonstrations and protests against restrictions. For example, the mask, a very common object in the eastern cities, becomes a symbol of deprivation and damage to democratic freedoms.
Another difference between these two models lies in the Government’s action on the industrial production of protective instruments and materials. These are produced internally, converting numerous factories, to achieve complete autonomy.
For the same purpose, the central government also controls the personal services sector, while decades of neoliberal policies in Western states have reduced the welfare state to an economic affair like others. The various reforms have pushed public agencies to behave more and more like private companies.
Surely China has shown an enormous capacity for response and organization, so much to be praised internationally. But it is a model that cannot be generalized, nor repeated in other States, at least not in those with strong liberal roots and a developed democracy.
A NECESSARY CHANGE
In light of everything that happened in this strange 2020, it is inevitable to look to the future. Surely something has to change.
Copy the Chinese model? Absolutely not, it would be a tremendous defeat of the democratic model and all those rights conquered with so much effort. But without doubt, it will be necessary to review the priorities, both individual and those of each state or community.
For example, it was very clear in many countries that the health system was not prepared at all, both in the first and in the second wave.
Over the years, health care and research have lost their importance with a significant decrease in state investment. (An example very close to me is Italy, where for more than 10 years Governments just cut resources, without optimizing them and where the pandemic deaths were really too much).
Just think of the shortage of staff and suitable facilities, as well as the lack of all those protective devices for medical staff, which has, in fact, counted many victims.
The shortage also involved the beds, many nurses and doctors said they had to choose who to save. That shouldn’t be part of their job.
And when we talk about the investment we are referring not only to the structural and material part but also to human capital. It is important to begin a process of enhancing the value of healthcare personnel, investing in continuous training so that they are as prepared as possible in the face of these phenomena.
Another change concerns individual concepts and mentalities. Precisely the dominant hyperindividualism in Western society has created some obstacles in breaking the chain of infections.
It’s not a question of solidarity, which has been really so difficult this year, but of modifying one’s behaviour in the perspective of co-responsibility and empathy. Historically, solidarity united with cooperation has produced many benefits both within communities and internationally.
Many theorists claim that the Covid-19, despite the disaster it will leave behind, is also a good opportunity to change the economic development model, with an eye to environmental and social sustainability.
After all, the pre-covid world was closely linked to a highly polluting economy. There is the possibility of investing in the quality of the products and work sector and this affects people’s lives.
There are really many actions that can be put into practice to start the change: circular economy, use of renewable energy, redesign of urban nuclei and rethinking of housing solutions, socially responsible finance and much more.
All these activities have a positive impact on the labour market because they require new professionals and create numerous jobs. It is estimated that by 2023 the green economy sector will generate 500,000 new jobs, more than double those expected in digital.
In other words, thanks to sustainability, it is possible to think of a more healthy and responsible economic recovery.
This last year has been a year that will hardly be forgotten, and perhaps this is the key, to take advantage of this experience to understand what the priorities are and to work on weaknesses, in all areas.
It is precisely in this direction that the OMS communiqué of 26 December 2020 goes, in which it states that this will undoubtedly not be the last pandemic and urges the various governments to be prepared, putting the health system at the centre of public investment.
Now it is up to us not to repeat the same mistakes and learn this great lesson.
Fears and anxiety are a constant element in the history and evolution of humanity.
Fear is one of the primary, normally unpleasant, emotions triggered by exposure to a certain stimulus.
The latter is considered dangerous and sets in motion a series of defensive responses. It is a universal emotion, in fact, it is not exclusive to the human being. Many species feel the same emotion and thanks to which they have survived.
We recognize it through both physiological and behavioural changes.
When fear reaches disproportionate and really intense levels it is called phobia (from the Greek Phobos, God who instilled terror in his enemies), and it is a real anxiety disorder.
While fear, as a primary emotion, is a natural reaction to an object or situation involving danger, a phobia is related to the interpretation of the subject of a given stimulus.
Besides, many fears disappear with growth and experience.
Another difference is that phobia, as opposed to fear, is not rationally controllable and in many cases requires specific treatment to prevent it from becoming a serious obstacle in daily life.
TYPES OF PHOBIAS
There are literally thousands of phobias, and in the modern world, it’s a growing phenomenon.
To make recognition and treatment more objective, international classifications recognize three macro-categories of phobia: simple, complex and agoraphobia.
Simple or specific phobia is closely related to an object, animal or concrete situation.
This category includes phobias against spiders, insects or dogs, while others are connected to a specific environment or situation, such as height, enclosed space, medical examinations, etc.
Simple phobias show common symptomatology, such as accelerating heartbeat and breathing, sweating, and shaking. Apart from that, he deserves blood phobia, injections or injuries because he shows very different symptoms, such as hypotension and fainting.
The various studies on the subject have not yet succeeded in clarifying the subject. The simple phobias develop in most cases in childhood, between 4 and 8 years.
The second category is that of complex phobias, which includes social phobias.
These develop more in adolescence, but the cases are also increasing in old age.
Social phobia consists of disproportionate fear of all those situations in which it is necessary to establish a relationship, verbal or not, with others.
Social phobia consists of disproportionate fear of all those situations in which it is necessary to establish a relationship, verbal or not, with others.
Speaking in public, actively participating in meetings, meetings and all those situations that require contact and showing themselves to the public produce in the person a huge malaise.
This negative state of mind only makes worse those same symptoms that the person wants to hide from others, such as strong sweating or shaking hands. At this point the subject will try to avoid all those situations that are the source of the malaise, gradually becoming isolated.
Again, it is important to distinguish social phobia from the normal anxiety that anyone has experienced at least once in social contexts.
For example, in adolescence, the feeling and fear of being judged or the fear of being inadequate is a very widespread experience but in non-pathological cases it is overcome with maturation and experience.
In subjects over the age of 65, a social phobia may be related to the possible deterioration of sensory functions, shame for a physical appearance not younger or other medical aspects related to this age group.
For example, many elderly people with Parkinson’s disease are ashamed of that uncontrollable tremor and will try to avoid some socialization opportunities where this problem is most obvious.
It is evident that in the development of these phobias both hereditary and environmental factors and those related to personality play an important role. An extremely shy person will be more exposed to this kind of issue.
The third category is agoraphobia. This is defined as the fear of all those situations in which the person feels sunk and exposed, without the possibility to escape or ask for help. It is characterized by the fear of being in open spaces, or closed but wide and crowded, so the person will avoid squares, large streets, shops, public transport, etc.
Being in these places will be a source of uncontrollable anxiety and will lead the person to isolate himself, both to avoid what scares and to the shame of not being able to control their reactions.
In the most serious cases, the isolation can be so marked as to avoid any exit from one’s home. The impact that this phobia has on the individual’s daily life is really powerful.
SYMPTOMATOLOGY
The main symptom is the excessive manifestation of fear and anxiety over the stimulus, to the point of causing significant discomfort and impairment of the person’s functioning. In the diagnosis of phobias, the symptoms must be present serious manifestations for at least 6 months.
These two symptoms are usually accompanied by other physiological symptoms such as tachycardia, dizziness, gastric and urinary disorders, nausea, suffocation, redness, excessive sweating and tremor.
These pathological manifestations are only evident if the individual approaches the feared object or situation, but they can also appear when the person thinks of that particular stimulus. For example, it is not uncommon for a phobic subject to manifest symptoms long before confronting what terrifies him.
The phobics, just to avoid this state of physical and psychological malaise, tend to avoid the situations that cause it, but in the long run, this mechanism becomes a real trap.
Avoidance only reinforces conduct and confirms the danger of the situation. Thus we enter a vicious circle from which it will be increasingly difficult to get out.
ETIOLOGY
As for the origins of phobias, particularly simple or specific ones, all investigators agree on the role of learning.
In this sense, the work of Watson was really important, and in the experiment of the little Albert, he managed at least in part to prove his thesis (1920).
The aim was to understand if it was possible, through classical conditioning, to create phobias.
In the first phase, little Albert was examined to rule out that there were already pathologies and phobias. After some tests, it turns out he was just afraid of loud noises.
In the second phase, loud noise is associated with a white mouse. The child was shown the small animal and as soon as it tried to approach it a loud noise was emitted behind its back.
The presentation of the two associated stimuli is proposed 4 times and is followed by the presentation of the mouse alone. The series is repeated 10 times.
At the end of the cycle, showing little Albert only the mouse, this will cry and will try to escape even in the absence of the sound stimulus. Subsequently, Watson discovers that the response has been generalized to other stimuli seemingly similar to touch, such as other animals, hair and even the doctor’s own beard.
After a few months, the negative response is still present, albeit to a lesser extent. The next step would be to eliminate the phobia, using the same technique, but little Albert was removed from the institute so the experiment does not continue.
The experiment explains how phobias in human being are possibly born.
Other theories follow a similar mechanism but replace the real and concrete stimulus (mouse) with models or verbal transmission of information.
Model-based conditioning starts from the basis that people learn to react to certain stimuli by observing and imitating other individuals close to them such as a family member.
If, for example, in a family, parents are overly afraid of a certain stimulus or situation, their children will have a special tendency to react in the same way and to develop phobias. This type of learning, excluding the possible pathological implications, has played a fundamental role in the adaptation of the human species.
About learning based on verbal information, it also considers excessive negative transmission as a possible phobic stimulus. And this theory finds some feedback even in the difficult period we are living.
There has been an increase in cases of people reporting pathological, or at least elevated, anxiety after months of lockdown in which the news was mainly focused on the pandemic and its consequences.
But the theories deriving from associative learning, even if they have contributed a lot of material, do not explain 100% the origin of the phobias.
This is probably because he excludes subjective aspects such as character and personality from his study.
In recent years the theory that best explains the development of the origins of phobias is the one that integrates the various approaches.
In other words, many aspects play a decisive role, including learning, cultural conditioning, previous experiences, personality traits and genetics.
THE BRAIN CIRCUIT OF FEAR
What happens in our brains when we’re scared?
Research in the field of neuroscience has shown that two circuits are activated when the emotion of fear is felt.
There are therefore two ways that the stimulus can travel to get to the answer from the person. What differentiates the two circuits is just the speed with which the person reacts.
Rapid Circuit
The visual stimulus gets to the thalamus and from it goes directly to the amygdala, which is the main core for controlling emotions, including fear.
The main function of the amygdala is to integrate the stimulus with an adequate response and for this reason, it has connections with most of the brain.
This circuit leads to a very fast response, and this speed is also derived from an inaccurate representation of the stimulus.
In certain circumstances, a harmless object, such as a stick or cable, could be mistaken by the person for something very dangerous, such as a snake, thus provoking seemingly exaggerated defensive responses.
This happens because the stimulus is not fully elaborated, in fact, the defensive response in the rapid circuit arrives in a few seconds.
The rapid circuit, according to many researchers, is closely connected with what we call the conservation instinct of the species.
Slow circuit
The visual stimulus, from the thalamus, passes into the cortex before reaching the amygdala. This lengthening of the route affects the response speed, but not only.
The reaction is much slower but more proportionate and rational thanks to the more detailed analysis of the stimulus.
Both circuits are fundamental and equally effective depending on the situation and the danger of the stimulus. However, it is not yet clear whether there are some mechanisms or subjective characteristics that influence the activation of one circuit or the other.
TREATMENT
Only between 10 and 25% approach a professional for treatment.
The willingness to start a therapeutic path depends on how much the phobia affects the quality of the person’s life.
The currently recognized and most used therapeutic approaches are 4.
Behaviour Therapy
The two main techniques of this therapeutic approach are exposure and presentation of a model.
In the first, the subject is exposed to the phobic stimulus, in vivo or through images.
The second shows the patient how other people react to what he perceives as danger.
The goal is to make the subject understand, autonomously, that his reaction is not proportionate and rational.
Cognitive Therapy
It focuses on modifying those mechanisms of irrational thinking that involve phobias, trying to create an alternative and realistic one towards the phobic stimulus.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
It is probably the most used because it integrates the action of exposure with cognitive restructuring. The goal is to work both on the conducts and on the thought that provokes them.
Psychoanalysis
It includes both traditional and short sessions, but in the case of the treatment of phobias, it is not currently considered the most reliable.
Many researchers say that this method, as well as being slow in achieving results, is too bound up with the subjective aspects of phobias.
Whatever therapeutic path you choose, the starting point is motivation.
Without it, the results will be less long-lasting and the chances of relapse will increase considerably. After all, any psychotherapy requires effort and will throughout the whole process, and if a fundamental key pillar as motivation fails, it will be really difficult for the patient to complete it.
And the drugs?
In some cases, there are more serious and even prohibitive physical symptoms for the beginning of psychotherapy.
The use of drugs is of great help to stop the circle of increased symptoms- increased anxiety.
The pharmacological treatment focuses only on the symptoms so it is advisable to integrate it with psychotherapy.
It should also be remembered that this type of drug causes dependence so they are not suitable for long-term use.
PREVENTION
So we know that many treatments can help you deal with phobias, but is it possible to prevent it from developing?
There are currently no scientifically proven techniques for the prevention of phobias, but in the light of what is known about the disorder, it is possible to make some useful considerations, especially concerning childhood. Many of these observations are useful for the mature age person's caregiver, just as sensitive in the development of phobias.
At an early age, it is essential to foster an environment of emotional security and tranquillity, in which its fears are not dramatized.
On the contrary, it is advisable to accompany the child so that he can gradually face what scares him, praising him in case of positive behaviour. This promotes and strengthens its independence and at the same time will avoid problems of self-esteem and anxiety.
It is also important to monitor the appearance of certain symptoms such as avoidance, which can be the signal of the onset of phobias in mature age.
It should be remembered that ageing, some diseases and the gradual loss of independence make this age particularly delicate. Communication becomes fundamental. Transmitting safety and affection to the elderly can help them to overcome the phase of change, as well as make them feel useful within the family.
We can all do something to avoid the appearance or aggravation of phobias, which is to be well informed and to remember that asking for help, both for ourselves and for someone we care about, is not nearly a failure.
Photo by Eri Pançi
Lanzarote, which is known for its mild climate, is the easternmost island in the archipelago and is the fourth largest of its kind, and owes its name to the Genoese navigator, Lanzerotto Malocello, who discovered it in 1312.
It’s of volcanic origin, and it’s the one that more than the other islands shows this characteristic, in fact, the black of the lava is a predominant colour.
Volcanoes are the essence of this magical island, almost all the natural attractions that can be visited stand out this characteristic. This soil, so dark, seems to have come from another planet, is an integral part of the life of its inhabitants.
TIMANFAYA NATIONAL PARK
Declared a National Park in 1974, it takes its name from one of the eleven villages buried by the lava and ashes of eruptions in the eighteenth century, from 1730 to 1736.
The phenomenon lasted for 2056 days and involved about thirty volcanoes. Nowadays, of all the volcanoes on the island, only Timanfaya is active.
The Park can be visited by guided tours and in small groups, to minimize the human impact on such a vulnerable reality declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
TEGUISE (VILLA DE TEGUISE)
For those who want to know the island, it is impossible not to pass through Teguise. It’s, in fact, the ancient capital, and it was one of the first urban agglomerations of the archipelago. Also, it’s the largest town hall, reaching both east and west coasts.
Teguise, with its stone streets and its typical white houses, is recognized among the most beautiful villages in Spain.
Although it is no longer the capital, it is very vital and full of cultural and commercial activities. For example, every Sunday, Teguise comes alive thanks to the craft market, where there is space for both artisans and agricultural producers.
Other interesting proposals are the Timple Museum, which tells the story of this tool through cultural activities, and the Museum of Piracy. The latter is located in the castle of Santa Barbara, where you can have a fantastic view of the island. Teguise also includes in its municipality beautiful beaches and beautiful villages on the coast, such as Costa Teguise and Famara, known for its sporting soul.
CUEVA DE LOS VERDES Y JAMEOS DEL AGUA
Although they are two sites to visit separately, they are connected by what is called the Tunnel of Atlantis and are the largest volcanic caves in the world.
The first is made up of galleries and natural rooms, illuminated by the wise hand of Jesus Soto, who also designed the route. Also clearly visible is Manriquez’s work, with its play of light, shadow and lava.
About halfway through the excursion, it will be possible to see one of the largest halls, converted into an auditorium. Thanks to its particular acoustics, it has hosted very unique concerts in recent years. But to discover the secret that is hidden in this place of hypnotic colours you have to get to the end.
Jameos del Agua is made up of tunnels and caves of volcanic origin partially sunk. It was the genius of Cesar Manriquez who transformed this wonder of nature into a place of entertainment, both for tourists and for the inhabitants of the island. Inside there are many accessible environments, such as the auditorium, which can accommodate up to 550 people and which hosts many musical events. There is also a small café bar with terrace, a restaurant and the House of Volcanoes, a museum dedicated to volcanology.
Both Jameos del Agua and the Cueva de Los Verdes are the perfect syntheses between the island’s volcanic naturalness and tourist activity.
SPORT TOURISM
Lanzarote has a sporting soul, it is, in fact, an excellent choice for those looking for sports and dynamism throughout the year.
The island hosts numerous international sports events, such as the well-known Ironman, but it is great for those who practice sports even at a non-professional level.
For example, Municipalities and Island Council organize guided trekking routes together with cooperatives in the sector. And thanks to these activities, divided by levels, you can visit emblematic places of the island.
In addition to these, there are many sports that you can practice in Lanzarote, such as golf, surfing, kitesurf, windsurfing, sailing and many others.
THE SOUTH OF THE ISLAND
The south coast of the island is formed by many sandy beaches, including well-known Playa Blanca and Playa Papagayo.
Playa Blanca is a small town in the municipality of Yaiza, which occupies a large part of the south coast and is a very important tourist centre on the island. Many foreigners choose this place to spend the winter, both for the climate and for the lifestyle.
Playa Papagayo is a protected area, formed by various beaches. Reaching it is not difficult, but you have to walk a few kilometres of dirt road.
It’s perfect for those seeking tranquillity, in fact, human activities are reduced to basic services and this allows you to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach.
Thanks to the striking contrast, between its white sand and black rocks, is one of the most photographed places on the island.
TINAJO AND MANCHA BLANCA
Tinajo City Hall occupies the west-central area of the island, reaching the coast. Thanks to its scenic features and its proximity to Timanfaya and Tinguaton volcano, its volcanic origins are very evident.
Mancha Blanca also belongs to the municipality, a small village that takes its name from the showy white spots present in the Caldera Blanca, another of the volcanoes of the area.
We must not allow ourselves to be fooled by the size of this small urban agglomeration, which is full of agricultural and commercial activity.
Every Sunday, there are many inhabitants of Lanzarote who go to the agricultural market organized in the main square, to buy delicious local products.
Besides, once a year, Mancha Blanca hosts one of the most important Craft Fair of the archipelago, which presents ancient crafts still present and revalued on the island, from the processing of leather and textiles to the processing of natural soaps, from ceramic creations to wood decoration, and much more.
In recent years the event has grown to host professionals from other islands and not only, but it has also become an event known at national and international level.
If you’re in this area, it’s impossible not to visit the church Nuestra Señora de Los Dolores, also known as Nuestra Señora de Los Volcanes. It is located exactly in the point where the lava, for the violent eruptions of the eighteenth century, stops, saving the inhabitants.
Every year, on September 15, a solemn procession is organized, with the typical clothes of the island, to pay homage to the patron saint of Lanzarote.
The area, with its many shops and craftsmen, is really ideal for those who want a nice memory of the island and try, between a walk, the authentic Canarian cuisine.
About 7 km from Tinajo is the coastal village of La Santa. It is one of the few tourist centres of the north coast and is one of the favourite destinations for professional athletes and sports lovers.
In fact, the expression of this sporting soul is the Club La Santa, where they offer about eighty sports and numerous activities' for every level and age'.
HARIA
Known as the Valley of the Thousand Palms, it is located in the north of the island. Here you can find most of the native flora because thanks to its special microclimate it is the greenest area of the island.
Haria hosts every Saturday, in its beautiful main square, the handicraft agricultural market, specialized in the sale of local ecological products.
Near the centre, there is also the house-museum of Cesar Manrique, where the artist finds the perfect place to stay in touch with the nature he loved so much and where he lived until 1992, the year of his death. Here it is possible to know the daily life of this very important figure.
Haria includes in its territory some small beaches and natural pools, such as La Garita, la playa de la Canteria, with its beautiful view to the Graciosa, and Caleton Blanco, with its spectacular colours.
There are also many proposals for trekking lovers, such as the trails on the volcano de la Corona, characterized by its large crater. It is accessed through a network of trails, of various levels and lengths, immersed in nature and surreal colours.
THE PLACES OF MANRIQUEZ
You can’t talk about Lanzarote without mentioning the personality and work of Cesar Manrique. The basic ideology of his art was that any human creation should be in harmony with nature, without changing its connotations and essence.
Manrique believed in tourism respectful of the environment and the peculiarities of the territory, for this I create sculptures and environments, all open to the public, which are real jewels set in this black earth.
His works seem to be created by nature itself.
Among the most famous are: Jameos del Agua, the Campesino House, Mirador del Rio, Cactus Garden.
His own house, now home to the Cesar Manrique Foundation, is open to the public. I take advantage of the space of five volcanic bubbles, developing the structure on two levels, and I reach an area of more than a thousand square meters.
Without any doubt it can be said that Lanzarote itself is one of his works, in any corner of the island there are traces of its passage.
GASTRONOMY, WINES AND MORE
Lanzarote has inherited from its aborigines (Guanches) a good part of its culinary habits, although over time the Spanish and South American gastronomic influence has been strong.
Its dishes are highlighted by the simplicity and quality of the ingredients.
From meat to fresh fish, from vegetables to cheese, without forgetting its legumes, the visitor will be surprised by its variety', ensured over the years by the know-how of its inhabitants.
Among his most famous dishes are the papas arrugadas, accompanied by tasty sauces, Mojos, and the gofio, a toasted cereal flour that is the basis of many preparations, sweet and salty.
No less important is the wine sector, with its unique cultivation method in the world that has been handed down for generations.
Those who visit the numerous wineries in the area are struck by these low vines, about 30-40cm, sprouting from the lava and protected from the winds by semicircles built of stone.
The way it is grown is really special and complex, it exploits the thermoregulatory ability of volcanic ash. This prevents water, of low rainfall and night humidity, from evaporating too quickly and being released into the soil gradually, ensuring plant nutrition.
But Lanzarote isn’t just good wine and good food. The island has been overwhelmed by the craft trend. In fact, some small independent breweries were established.
Although the local public is not yet accustomed to the particular flavour of craft beer and a growing market and given the quality of these productions without a doubt worth a try.
The two most well-known companies in the sector are NAO and MALPEIS. Both allow a guided tour of their establishment and tastings, accompanying the visitor in the discovery of the world of craft beer, from hops to glass.
ARRECIFE-PUERTO DEL CARMEN
Arrecife is the current capital of the island and is among the most visited places in the archipelago.
It’s the smallest town hall, but it’s the most populated and it’s a big tourist centre.
For example, Playa del Reducto, a beach with clear sand, is a place of relaxation for many tourists every year.
Continuing the promenade, flanked by the ocean, you get to the castle of San Gabriel, a fortress which can be accessed through an ancient and evocative bridge. Inside it is the museum of the history of Arrecife.
Equally interesting is the International Museum of Modern Art, which is located in the castle of San Jose.
As well as monuments and beaches, the capital offers many wonderful places, such as the Charco of San Gines, where the ocean water forms a picturesque lagoon framed by small white houses.
In the past this was where the fishermen of the city lived, so they could moor their boats in a safe and protected by currents. Nowadays, this has been converted into one of the most vital areas of the capital, it hosts many restaurants and bars. At night, with the reflection of the lights on the water, it seems to shine.
Arrecife is also characterized by ancient traditions and popular festivals, including that of San Gines, already recognized as a National Tourist Interest.
The event lasts 10 days, during which processions, holidays and cultural events are organized. At the end of the celebrations, fireworks are organized at the Playa del Reducto, an impressive show in honour of the city’s patron.
A little further south is Puerto del Carmen, which belongs to the municipality of Tias. It is one of the most important tourist centres, in fact, it hosts many hotels and residences also of international brands, and its promenade is a succession of restaurants, shops and bars. These have the tourists as their main target.
The resort extends for about 7km of coast, with beautiful sandy beaches, appreciated by both national and international tourism and residents. These include Playa Grande, the largest, Playa Chica and Playa de Los Pocillos. Moving a bit south, there is Playa Quemada, a small village appreciated for its tranquillity. Its beaches are mostly rocky but passing through these, with a nice walk, you get to a beautiful sandy beach.
A 'curiosity' about the island... Lanzarote was a location also loved by the world of cinema. It has hosted many famous productions, including some Marvel films, such as The Eternals. But not only that, but it was also chosen because of its unique landscape by directors such as Ron Howard and Pedro Almodovar.
Lanzarote is not only sun and sea, but it is also a unique and delicate environment, welcoming and without a doubt, its colours and shapes will remain forever imprinted in the memory of those who visit it.
Nowadays, changes in the world of work are happening faster and faster, thanks to the development of new technologies in the sector. Working as a freelancer is undoubtedly what best represents this transformation.
Technology and its use are now a fundamental component and there are more and more companies that turn to independent professionals to improve and accelerate their projects.
In 2020, also because of the pandemic, this type of work accelerated its spread, thanks to the possibility to work remotely and to reduce contacts without losing productivity.
In this regard, a recent study by Malt, one of the largest freelance platforms in Europe, has highlighted that this year over 3 million people, including France, Germany and Spain, have chosen to enter in the world of freelance activity.
WHO IS THE FREELANCER?
He’s an independent worker, he can work either as a consultant to solve a single problem or for a limited period for contract and goals.
The fields in which you work as a freelancer are very numerous: web design, programming, marketing, translation, creative writing, etc
But what makes you prefer freelance work to employee work?
Surely it is a mode of work in which flexibility wins, both in the organization and in the schedules.
Also about leisure, the concept is different, in fact, many freelancers say that they made this choice to be able to spend more time on themselves and their family.
Another factor is that it is widely believed that in freelance work there is more space for creative work and that this is more valued.
And it is certainly realistic to say that creativity, and originality, that a freelancer shows in his proposals is what distinguishes him from the other candidates.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Most professionals start their own business by subscribing to platforms for freelancers.
The latter has the objective of creating a digital place where supply and demand can meet and put in contact. Those who are looking for professionals have the opportunity to publish projects and accept applications, while freelancers as well as sending their proposals to potential customers, can take advantage of the web showcase to expose their skills.
The mechanism is very similar in different platforms, as Freelancer, Twago, Upwork, Workana, etc.
Who is looking for a certain service publishes a project, including features and guidelines. The professional can consult the various jobs available and send an offer to the one he considers most suitable for his skills.
The market is really wide, so it is inevitable to compete with many freelancers from all over the world and with the most varied skills. At this point, it is up to the person who published the project to choose the best proposal among those of the candidates.
In some platforms, such as Fiverr, those looking for service have a list of professionals. Here the freelancer presents himself, with the creation of a profile, and his skills through the publication of the portfolio.
In this case, it is essential to take care of the profile, to ensure that it is always up to date and that it attracts the attention of potential customers.
This makes it clear that even if from the outside it is seen as simple and immediate, the world of the freelance is really demanding and to face it are necessary skills, creativity and continuing training.
In addition to these three basic characteristics, we can identify others that are surely useful. For example, punctuality and reliability.
A competent but inaccurate freelancer in the respect of times and deadlines will have negative feedback. This will definitely affect the quality of the jobs you can apply for.
Another valued feature is empathy, especially with the project’s target audience. Often the project consists of transmitting a message, in graphic form or text, and improving communication. It is therefore clear that some projects require high and specific skills, the result of a strong investment in their training.
There are, however, plenty of jobs available for which no specific qualifications or certificates are required.
It is the case of creative writing, where one’s skills can be the result of an unofficial training driven by a passion for a certain area. This is the most fascinating side of freelance work, turning your passion into work.
ALL THAT GLITTERS IS NOT GOLD
Obviously, as in all areas of work, there are disadvantages and negative aspects to be assessed.
On an economic level, one of the aspects considered negative by many is the irregularity of earnings, to be added to the expenses and risks that are totally borne by the freelancer.
For example, falling ill for a few days can cause delays and problems with customers.
Continuous customer search is another of those problematic aspects that many people recognize, especially in the beginning.
After all, it is not easy to build a reputation in the ever-expanding digital world. The continuous comparison with the competition is for many a source of stress. Often you have the feeling of not being able to keep up with others.
Another downside is the difficulty of keeping private life and work well separated.
This happens because the most widespread model, practically the only one, is the remote mode, in one’s own home and this brings work into those moments that should be dedicated to leisure, to oneself or the family.
There are a lot of freelancers who describe a state of fatigue due to this failure to separate the two areas. In some cases, the work invades with arrogance the affective and personal sphere, because without rigid schedules to respect, every moment that is not dedicated to the customer and the various projects seems wasted and you find yourself working with enormous pressure.
So freelance work, though full of satisfaction, isn’t always relaxing. In this regard, it is important to highlight an aspect that must undoubtedly be taken into account when choosing between freelance work and employee work, this is the loneliness.
The risk, in this mode of work, is to isolate oneself, to limit relationships and to become entangled in what are daily and necessary activities.
Besides, there are no colleagues to talk to, exchange opinions and share more or less personal events, lunches and dinners.
After all, the workplace is one of the main places of socialization. (This is also a point of debate in the employee in smart working mode, which has grown greatly because of covid-19).
Even the relationship with the customer changes, this becomes less direct and in most cases is limited to digital communication, with email and messages.
Almost all the negative aspects described can be weakened or even eliminated if some good practices are established. Much depends on the tenacity and commitment that everyone puts in his activity', to tip as much as possible the balance towards positivity. Now let’s see some advice to make this happen!
INSTRUCTION FOR USE
BE PATIENT
Especially when you’re starting, it seems like no one is interested in our jobs and our ideas.
It’s essential to be able to wait, maintaining a constant commitment in the search for potential customers and the promotion of skills. After all, the freelance market involves a huge amount of professionals and is constantly expanding. It is a real endurance race between competence.
HONEST ABOUT ABILITIES
The customer looking for a freelancer needs a professional figure who can solve a problem. If you’re aware that you can’t do it, it’s much better to tell the client honestly, because accepting a project that is not in line with our skills would lead to a bad job and consequently to negative feedback from the client.
The same principle should be applied in terms of deadlines. It is important to be realistic about the date of delivery of projects. Punctuality is a very appreciated feature and is often cited in reviews and evaluations of freelancers.
ORGANIZATION
The disorder is not a friend of the freelancer at all. On the contrary, a greater capacity of the organization is necessary, both in order not to affect productivity and to prevent work from invading more personal spheres.
Knowing how to create a stimulating and orderly environment and organize the activities to be carried out in the day will make the work much more pleasant and less stressful. In addition, with a good organization, the possibilities of making mistakes in the management of clients and projects are reduced.
LIFELONG LEARNING
In the digital age, everything changes and evolves at a dizzying speed.
It is therefore essential for the freelancer to take care of their training, updating their skills continuously with courses, webinars and participating in events.
CREATING AN OFFLINE REPORTING NETWORK
Participating in events, events and refresher courses outside the digital world is an excellent opportunity to expand your network of contacts. Just between these contacts, it is possible to find some customer or someone interested in promoting projects and ideas.
In addition, these opportunities are an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and socialize with other professionals.
LEARN TO SAY NO
The freelancer is not a superhero. It’s impossible to accept whatever project is proposed to us, however interesting it is. It is often done for fear of losing an opportunity or a potential customer. But it should be remembered that if the latter is really impressed by our skills and appreciates our ideas, definitely contact for future projects.
It is important to know how to carve out moments to dedicate only to ourselves and to our free time and rest, without feeling guilty or inadequate. And if in the beginning, it will be difficult to say no, with the passage of time and experience, we will learn to select customers and projects more appropriate to us, increasing productivity.
KNOWING HOW TO VALUE YOUR WORK
This is a very delicate chapter, in fact, presenting a quote and calculating the price of a service is quite complex in the freelance world. And it’s really hard to establish, without underestimating it, the value of one’s time and this is often a source of tension.
There is the possibility that the customer refuses a proposal because he thinks the estimate is excessive and this often leads the freelancer to change the price downwards.
This "self-sabotage" can lead the professional to submit estimates that underestimate his skills, and consequently, adversely affect his professional growth.
So it’s essential to know how to put a price on your time and the skills we use to complete a project and to do it without selling out or underestimating yourself. And it doesn’t matter if you have little experience, time and commitment always have a value.
CREATING AN ATTRACTIVE PORTFOLIO
The portfolio is the collection of all the projects and works completed in the professional and training path. It’s a demonstration of our abilities, and it’s often because of this that a client chooses a freelancer.
And even in the case of being at the beginning of the profession and having little experience is an effective way of showing our personality and ability.
It is possible to include in the portfolio some projects created just as a tutorial while remembering to specify that it is not a real client.
Currently, there are many tools to create professional and effective portfolios. Behance, Pinterest, Dribbble or Linkedin platforms are widely used, for example, or some tools such as WordPress or Adobe Portfolio.
But what characteristics should a portfolio have? It must be able to capture the attention of the potential customer, creative and not excessively long. The potential client has limited time, so it’s better to select the best projects and feel the proudest of.
GOOD USE OF SOCIAL NETWORKS
Just like the portfolio, the various social networks are an excellent showcase for projects and skills. Knowing how to use them is therefore fundamental.
In addition to the classic Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linkedin it is useful to create a personal blog so that you can show both creativity and management ability.
This is because in the classic social networks, as a result of the huge amount of publications, the duration of effectiveness is limited, it is estimated that the posts or tweets do not last more than 24 hours.
In the blog instead, the articles remain visible for a long time. Some studies have estimated that its duration can be up to two years if the text is well optimized. This is a useful indication of how, what, where and how often to publish.
Also, very often when a customer receives a proposal, they will look for information about the freelancer or some reference on the web, so it becomes really important to exploit these tools.
KNOW THE COMPETITION
It is not a matter of spying on or stealing projects but simply looking in the various platforms or on the web for those freelancers who are successful and try to understand based on their experience what can be improved. In other words, take some inspiration from other people’s experiences.
The choice to become a freelancer depends a lot on the personality and on what are our expectations in the search for a job. Many factors must be taken into account when you choose to be part of this world, but no doubt it is an excellent experience that will surely enrich us professionally and personally.
The acronym ADHD stays for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s one of the common disorders of childhood. It’s estimated that 5% of children and 2,5% of adults in the world are affected.
The growth of early diagnosis is also motivated by the greater knowledge that has acquired the different professional figures involved. A theme that also attracted attention is the possibility of diagnosis in adulthood.
It is not uncommon for an adult to discover that he or she has ADHD when the same disorder is diagnosed in his or her child.
WHAT IS ADHD AND WHAT ARE ITS CHARACTERISTICS?
The Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is diagnosed in most cases in the first twelve years of life, but that very often lasts in adult life.
We can divide symptomatology into three main categories:
- impulsivity,
- hyperactivity,
- and lack of attention.
IMPULSIVITY
The subject acts without thinking. Even in his relationship with others, he is impatient, it is difficult to maintain a dialogue without interrupting. Moreover, he strikes for his, sometimes inappropriate, sincere.
HYPERACTIVITY
The subject seems to be driven by an engine, and it’s in constant motion. For him, for example, all those tasks that require sitting for a long time are very complicated. For example, during a lesson, it is not uncommon for the person to move his legs or hands almost uncontrollably. This behaviour is also evident during recreational activities
ATTENTION DEFICIT
It’s the most obvious symptom in school age. The subject has reduced attention and organization capacity and will be easily distracted. He also shows a total disregard for details. Even the memory is involved, in fact, the subject with ADHD often has forgetfulness, both in everyday life and in school or work.
The manifestation of symptomatology is very subjective, it changes a lot from one subject to another. In the last studies have been evidenced remarkable differences between males, more predisposed to hyperactivity, and females more predisposed to the deficit of attention.
It’s still possible to identify three models of ADHD manifestation.
The impulsive/hyperactive type in which the characteristic features of 'hyperactivity' and 'impulsivity' are dominant.
In the type with predominance of the attention deficit are just predominant all those symptoms related to attention, memory and organization.
In the third model, the combined model, the three symptomatological categories converge simultaneously.
DIAGNOSIS
The diagnosis is a fairly elaborate and long process involving various professional figures, including child neuropsychiatrist, psychologist and psychiatrist. The complexity is that the same manifestations are present in children who do not have ADHD, albeit to a lesser extent.
Usually, the process starts with a teacher reporting because it’s in the school context that the symptoms can be better observed.
The next step is the observation and screening phase. This happens in all environments that are in contact with the child, that is, family, school and recreational.
The doctor also uses physical, radiological and laboratory tests, especially to rule out other causes and to check if it is in the presence of comorbidity.
The diagnosis process is currently based on the symptoms described in the two main diagnostic manuals:
- DSM-V, used in the USA,
- and ICD-10, used in Europe.
To be considered for diagnostic purposes, symptoms must occur for at least six months and to an extent disproportionate to the age of the subject. It must also be demonstrated that these demonstrations are not the consequence of other problematic situations, such as school, domestic or social.
It’s important to remember that the variety of symptoms is really expanding and that some manifestations are common to other diseases.
For example, depression, bipolar disorder, and some intellectual disabilities may present symptoms that can be mistaken for ADHD at first. For this reason, it is essential that the screening and observation process be early and continuous.
ETIOLOGY
The specific cause of ADHD is still unknown, but the one that has the most consent is genetic. The various professional figures sometimes recognize that this must be integrated with environmental risk factors, which can undoubtedly affect the onset and gravitation of ADHD.
These factors also include all those conditions to which the child is exposed during pregnancy and childbirth.
For example, the use of alcohol, drugs or nicotine during pregnancy can interfere with the development of the central nervous system with a higher risk that the child may suffer ADHD.
Environmental risk factors include infections, both from viruses and bacteria, and complications during childbirth.
In recent years, dietary risk factors have also been included. Some believe, for example, that the abuse of sugars, dyes and additives can be the cause of the disorder, but there is no concrete evidence to support this last argument.
To date, the interpretation that has the most consensus in the academic world is that it actively integrates genetic predisposition with external factors.
THERAPIES AND TREATMENTS
As regards the interventions that the professional figure can use, they can be divided into two areas of action:
- pharmacological
- psychoeducational
Drug therapy consists in the administration of drugs, psychostimulants and not, which help to maintain at manageable levels hyperactivity' and impulsivity', and that helps the individual to increase his threshold of attention and concentration.
The administration of stimulants to minors is not always well seen. It is widely believed that in doing so they are exposed to a greater risk of addiction to drugs. In contrast, recent studies have shown that boys undergoing drug treatment for ADHD have been less at risk than their peers who exhibit the same disorder but are not treated.
The results are well visible even in the short term but it is advisable to integrate the use of drugs with psychological and educational therapies.
In this sense, therapies with a cognitive-behavioural approach enjoy a lot of consensuses. This consists in teaching the child strategies to deal in a constructive way with their deficits and the resulting conduct. It is therefore addressed to all aspects of the person and involves school, family and society.
More in detail, it includes activities that involve both the subject with ADHD and those who take care of it and aim to achieve good self-regulation in all aspects.
Another approach that integrates well with all the others is the conduct modification therapy.
This acts by positive reinforcements if the conduct is adequate, and negative if instead, the subject manifests incorrect behaviour.
Other useful and well-integrated techniques are those of relaxation and control of anxiety and stress, encourage the practice of sports activities and train social skills, often lacking in those who have the disorder.
Whatever the psychological approach is chosen, the process always takes place in close collaboration with the educational community, that is, parents and teachers.
For this reason are equally important the activities of teacher and parent training, the purpose of which is to train and make both parents and teachers aware, transmitting to them patterns of management of the disorder.
These become active elements through positive communication and imposition and help in the internalization of structures and discipline.
This type of session can be both individual and group. Sharing with other families living in the same condition can be a huge support. Listening to and exchanging your experiences is an opportunity to learn and enrich yourself culturally. And not least, it helps to fight the feeling of loneliness in which families often live.
In recent years, there has been a third approach, the nutritional approach. It consists in treating ADHD with a diet, for example by eliminating sugars, dyes, additives and in some cases gluten.
At the moment there is no evidence that it is an effective and decisive therapy, but in some particular cases correcting the diet has been of help in mitigating, at least in part, the symptoms.
The integration of the various therapies remains the mode that is most successful precisely because you are faced with a disorder with many nuances.
The choice of which treatments and therapies to use also depends on the possible presence of comorbidity.
WHAT IS COMORBIDITY?
Comorbidity is defined as the presence of two or more contemporary pathological conditions. According to studies, in ADHD this is very frequent in fact about 67% has at least another psychiatric or developmental disorder.
This makes the diagnosis process much more complex and affects the treatment.
Many experts explain this phenomenon by the fact that these disorders may have common cautious and risk factors. The disorders that present greater comorbidity, with varying degrees of intensity, with ADHD are:
- Defiant oppositional disorder
- Anxiety disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Tourette syndrome
- Depressive disorder
These 5 are those in which the professional figures who study the phenomenon show greater possibilities of comorbidity.
It is therefore evident that in the presence of this phenomenon, the choice of therapy must be adapted to the two or more disorders that coexist in the individual.
IN ADULTHOOD
The symptoms of this disorder, with their consequences and implications, can manifest themselves in a more or less important way in adult life.
This is because ADHD is a disorder that affects areas of the person that are vitally important.
It interferes in relational, professional and not to a lesser extent in education and training dynamics.
It is possible, however, to recognize two profiles of ADHD subjects in adult life: the constructive and the destructive.
In the first one, even if the symptoms are present, the person does not exhibit problematic or socially inconvenient behaviours. Impulsivity and the presence of an original and unconventional thought become enormous resources in both academic and work. This is fundamental for the subject to feel part of the community and therefore socially accepted.
Achieving a constructive profile is the goal that usually arises the professional figure in charge of therapy and treatment of the subject.
In the destructive profile are manifested highly impulsive and dangerous conducts with a strong, not motivated aggressiveness.
The consequences are a strong conflict, both in the family and in the work and social environment, illegal conduct up to the abuse of drugs and alcohol.
Through these conducts, the individual tries to regulate himself. That is, the individual performs certain behaviours, not by choice, but to defend himself from the stress caused by his deficits and its consequences.
It’s a real defence mechanism against all those stress situations where the subject feels overwhelmed and reacts with misfits behaviour.
It’s just to avoid solidifying a destructive profile that early detection is important. In other words, what allows the individual with ADHD to reach a constructive profile and live as normal a life as possible, is diagnosis and treatment, including in the latter all those interventions aimed at identifying their deficits and working on mechanisms of correct self-regulation.
It is difficult to make a diagnosis in adulthood because of the numerous nuances of symptomatology and the possible comorbidity', a phenomenon more evident and probable with the advancement of the age.
Also, reconstructing a clinical history with years of delay can be complicated because memory and memory interpretation can be compromised and incomplete and incorrect data can be provided.
Although it’s a widespread disorder in the child and adult population, it’s still a taboo theme. This happens because in many cases the symptomatology manifests itself with socially unacceptable and unpleasant behaviours. In the most serious cases, it is impossible to sustain a dialogue with a certain continuity.
The subject with ADHD is often aware of his condition, he feels different from the rest of the people, and this can cause him a strong sense of inadequacy and lead him to isolate himself. It is thus inevitable the worsening of the disorder and quality of life of the person.
On the other hand, often the same company in which the subject with ADHD is anything but collaborative, in fact, issues judgments too hasty and superficial. There are still many who do not recognize the disorder and consequently the condition in which the subject lives.
To say that it is an invented disease is at the limit of the offence, both for the person and for the family that takes care of it in a system that often leaves them alone. It is important to recognize that it is a problem that generates stress in families and teachers who often find themselves unprepared in the management of the child’s behaviour.
At the moment the debate is "only" in the scientific field, and it is a constructive dialogue that aims to identify and establish common strategies, both in diagnosis and in treatment.
The second fundamental step is to pass on these conclusions to the public debate.
It is really very important to combat the misinformation so widespread on this disorder, to prevent the spread of an unrealistic vision and to promote a gradual and effective integration of the person. What is perhaps necessary is a cultural change, starting with the dissemination of information about ADHD disorder and more generally on all those disorders that resonate intrusive for the person.
I wanted to summarize the general lines of the disorder, to treat it in a complete and exhaustive way would not be enough hundreds of pages.
The intent is simple: to make it clear that this disorder exists. And there are a lot of people who, day after day, fight with ADHD.
Imagen de Mandyme27
The colors, always present in our lives, have not only a decorative purpose, in fact, it has a strong communicative function and can reach a strong influence on our state of mind.
But really, what are colors? They are the visual perception in response to the different wavelengths of light radiation. On the retina we find the cones and rods, that is our photoreceptors. The cones are responsible for the vision of colors and there are three types. Some are dedicated to the wavelengths of blue-violet, others to those of green and the last to red-orange. All the other colors are the result of the overlapping of the chromatic effects. Then, through the neuronal network, the stimuli pass from the cones to the brain, where they are processed together with other environmental information, up to the chromatic sensation.
A lot of scientific disciplines are involved in their study, including physics, chemistry, mathematics, psychology, neurobiology, philosophy. There are other disciplines, not officially recognized as sciences, that treat the subject from other points of view, such as chromology and chromotherapy.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF COLORS
It is the study of the psychic reactions and emotions that people present in the presence of certain colors. It is widely believed that it is a pseudoscience because the color is very related to the personal taste and experiences of each individual. However, even this last aspect, so subjective, is extremely revealing for research purposes and, in some ways, confirms the psychological symbology of color.
In this regard, it’s interesting the work of Eva Heller, psychologist, sociologist and professor in communication theory. Her study, based on an inquiry involving 2000 people, shows that colors and feelings do not bind accidentally. So, it’s not just personal taste. On the contrary, the meaning of color finds roots in early childhood and remains internalized so deeply as to seem innate.
It is understandable that, despite numerous studies on the subject, it is still seen with a certain diffidence because the reference to subjectivity and symbolism remains strong.
THE MAIN COLORS
In the experience of each of us, it is reasonable to say that there are colors that are winning but it’s important to remember that the meaning and interpretation of color can be very different in other cultures and communities. Let’s see some of the most used, in reference to European and American culture.
BLUE
It’s a color that represents harmony, peace and balance. Used in most advertising campaigns and the creation of commercial environments as it transmits reliability and seriousness, without ever being excessive or heavy. Without any doubt, it is a winning color, suitable for any context and easy to use.
RED
It represents the energy, the love, the passion and the impulsivity. It’s a strongly ambivalent color because its excessive use is associated with blood and violence, calling in the observer negative feelings. The red is quite used in the marketing to attract attention, even if in some cases it is too invasive and aggressive.
YELLOW
It’s the color of the sun, it symbolizes light and creativity. It’s associated with the will to do, joy and youth. Being a very bright color, used too can tire the view of the observer. Also in some of its tonality' is' associated with ambiguity.
LILAC AND VIOLET
It is the color of magic, of spirituality, and the occult, with a strong reference to femininity. It’s the result of the union between the energy and impetuosity of red and the calm and balance of blue. It’s associated with the concepts of metamorphosis, transition, and simultaneously with prudence and moderation. It’s a much-loved color by a large part of the female audience, of any age, and that’s why it’s one of the most used in the cosmetics and make-up industry.
GREEN
It is a color with a very positive meaning and it is the color that par excellence recalls nature. Often associated with health and healing, it relaxes and inspires confidence in the interlocutor. It’s used a lot, for this reason, in those environments where it’s necessary to create an atmosphere of familiarity.
It is also very often used to evoke the idea of the abundance of money and fortune.
ORANGE
This color comes from the combination of the energy of red with the joy of yellow. In marketing, it is often used for products and services dedicated to a young audience because it is associated with sociality, cheerfulness and vitality. It is an excellent color in those spaces where people are welcomed, such as entrances and meeting rooms, because it stimulates dialogue and awakens attention without being aggressive. Another peculiarity of his is that of having the ability to stimulate the appetite and for this reason he is very used, with a great variety of shades, in many restaurants.
WHITE
White is the combination of all the colors of the electromagnetic spectrum, it is in fact also called non-color but has the characteristic of having a high brightness. It’s the color symbol of purity, of virginity. It is also associated with hygiene and perfection. For this characteristic, it is very used in all those environments that need to convey a feeling of cleanliness, such as a restaurant kitchen or a medical clinic. It is also the perfect ally in painting of walls, both domestic and commercial environments, as it makes the spaces brighter and wider.
BLACK
Represents the absence of color and it has always a negative connotation because of its physical characteristic of "capturing light". It is often associated with death and evil. It’s also the symbol of power and authoritarianism. On the contrary, in marketing, it does not lead to negative feelings. It is often used for expensive and luxury products, such as technology, automotive and clothing because it evokes sophistication and elegance. As opposed to white, used in the painting of walls will make the spaces visually smaller. Despite this ambiguity, it is a very popular color and much appreciated in many areas because, if well used, it becomes the perfect ally to enhance objects, environments and personality.
GREY
It’s a color that calls to immobility and monotony but also sadness and melancholy. It’s an emotionless color, detached and undecided. The latest sociological research has shown that it is much appreciated by the younger audience, despite its lack of personality, because it calls to modernity. Often those who use it do not want to create stimuli or transmit messages but neutrality or those seeking relief from a chaotic world.
PINK
It’s commonly associated with femininity, childhood, and tenderness. It’s a color with a strong positive connotation, in fact, it’s been shown to evoke calm and reduce feelings of anger, aggression and revenge. It is widely used in the advertising and packaging of products dedicated to children and women. These characteristics make it an ideal choice in wall painting, but it should be used with caution in working environments because it may be too strong the call to femininity.
BROWN
It’s a warm color and it’s associated with the idea of earth, autumn and wood. It indicates stability, concreteness, solidity and order. It also can arouse in the observer a strong feeling of genuineness. This last feature has made it a winning color for food packaging, especially those ecological. If well used, brown can give the atmosphere a very unique and welcoming shade.
And yet, it’s been proven by recent studies that it’s the least popular color in the world, in fact for many it’s a color that evokes avarice and dirt.
Those described are just some of the existing colors, they are the ones that are more present around us. Let us now look specifically at the areas in which its influence can be most appreciated.
VISUAL ART
Painting, cinema and photography are the areas that for excellence have made the color a real messenger. Thanks to it, in fact, the artists have transmitted social messages and not. Also studying the colors of a work is easy to understand some nuances of the personality and character of the author.
In painting, Kandinsky's abstractionism is a perfect example. According to this current, art does not need real subjects because it is the only color capable of provoking emotions in the observer. The color then has the upper hand on the forms.
The same happens in cinema and photography. The choice of the dominant colors and their combination is very important in transmitting psychological and emotional effects.
NEUROMARKETING
It consists of the study of the cognitive aspects of the consumer and of all those processes and factors that can influence the decisions in the purchasing processes. It can be of great help in the advertising campaigns, in the positioning and the improvement of a product or the creation of a brand or a new store.
90% of consumers say they recognize a brand because of its color. This is explained by the fact that the visual stimulus is the first approach that you have with a brand or a product.
If you want to attract a female audience you will choose shades of pink or purple.
If instead, you want to attract a high-class audience will dominate the shades of black and grey.
Another example is the use of red, the color par excellence of passion and love, in Valentine’s Day campaigns.
POLITICS
This area was not insensitive to the power of color. The color scheme chosen is the first thing we notice in the logo of a political party or in the flyer of a representative.
If you want to convey a feeling of firmness you will use colors such as orange or red. If the target is female, purple can be a good ally. Avoid pink in this case, because it would be too strong and invasive.
Another color that has a strong negative connotation in politics is black because historically it is associated with authoritarianism and anarchism.
This so-called "political marketing" is used not only in the creation of different logos or flags but also in the clothing of representatives.
If, for example, we look at the current German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, we see how often she uses, on institutional occasions that require negotiation skills, the green color, which indicates security, perseverance and balance.
Color is fundamental in the construction of a political image.
CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES
What we wear speaks of us and our state of mind, so the conscious use of color in clothing can become a weapon at our disposal to enhance and to emerge, both in the private and in the workplace. In fact, it’s proven that the choice of colors, for example in a job interview, can really make a difference. The more the message we send is in line with the place offered, the more the chances of a positive outcome will be.
If the firm is looking for a young and dynamic profile, presenting itself to the recruiter in a grey or brown dress is not a winning choice.
Even outside the workplace, the color of clothing can reflect our mood at a particular moment. For example, dressing completely in black gives a touch of mystery and charm but at the same time does not invite dialogue and sharing.
CHROMOTHERAPY
It’s one of the disciplines of alternative medicine and it’s not considered a real therapy. It is based on the belief that some colored lights or environments of certain colors can cure certain diseases.
The operation is simple. You can use colored light directly projected on a certain part of the body or you can apply the colors chosen on white walls. Those who practice the discipline say that with daily sessions of thirty minutes about the first results are visible after a few weeks.
Currently, chromotherapy is classified as pseudo therapy because of the lack of scientific evidence that confirms its effectiveness.
There is no doubt that color can help in some disorders, such as anxiety or panic, but there have been no reported cases of genuine healing.
In other words, always considering the peculiarity of each case, it could be a useful palliative to accompany the therapies of classical medicine.
For various reasons, the psychology of colors is viewed with suspicion and distrust by other fields of study. This happens because it lacks the support of scientific evidence of its effectiveness, in fact, many of its claims are based on empirical studies not always repeatable.
On the contrary, it is strongly present in the influence of personal taste and culture. The chromatic choices of each depend inevitably also on environmental factors but it is undeniable that within a group or community, there are common answers.
If we take the white color, for example, in the West it has positive connotations, while in some Eastern countries it is a strongly negative color because it is associated with death and mourning.
And there are really many possible examples where certain colors have opposite meanings depending on the culture of reference.
The psychology of colors takes this aspect into account in its studies. The identification of these common areas, each with its cultural peculiarities, is fundamental within this discipline.
And what do you think? Is there any color that has a particular influence on you?
Sept 2020, Italy. An 11 years old boy decides to end its life by jumping out of the window. He leaves a farewell letter to his family. He writes that he must follow “a man wearing a hoodie” because he was so afraid.
According to the official investigation, the note refers to Jonathan Galindo, a mysterious man that shows itself in some social network masked as a strange “Goofy”, the famous Walt Disney character.
There is no reliable information about who is hiding behind this character and how he lures his victims. As always in these cases, the charge of fake news is launched, but in the presence of such a young victim, it is essential to treat the issue with due caution.
The news arose rumours in a lot of countries over the world, especially for the age of the victim, but is just one of the last cases of web challenge that ends with a suicide.
In recent years, this kind of challenges have multiplied on the world of the social network. Among the most recent and known, we can remember the Blue Whale challenge, the Benadryl challenge and Momo challenge.
The first one, dating in 2016 in Russia, consists in a series of 50 tasks assigned to each player by an unknown administrator over a 50 days period. It starts with a simple and innocuous request (ex: get up at 3:00, watch horror movie for 24 hours, etc.), but gradually introduce some elements of violence and self-injury.
Many participants, in fact, during the game published photos of self-harm, such as the famous drawing of the whale engraved with a knife on arms or legs. The game ends with a final task, that is the request of suicide.
The Blue Whale challenge, through social media, has spread all over the world. Cases have been reported and reported in virtually every continent, from Asia to America, from Europe to Africa. Fortunately, in a short time, several people were arrested, believed to be connected with the creation, development and sharing of the Blue Whale challenge.
The Benadryl challenge, spread on the social TikTok this year, has a different dynamic than the others because there isn’t a list of request or tasks and there isn’t any contact with an administrator or a fictitious character.
The participants must film themselves while taking as much of the drug as possible, normally the quantity "acceptable" to participate in the challenge is 10 or more tablets.
It is a known that antihistamine and its secondary effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, states of nervousness and irritation and hallucinations. The challenge is to share, live, this experience on this social media but many ignore that an excessive intake of this drug can have very serious consequences, even permanents, including heart attack and death.
About the Momo challenge, the available data are insufficient and unclear. Although many parents have reported his appearance in some childhood videos of YouTube, it’s, in fact, a widespread opinion that it is fake news or just an urban legend.
In this challenge, the participant searches on the web for the phone number of the strange character Momo, created in fact, in 2016 by the Japanese sculptor Keisuke Aiso for an art gallery dedicated to the world of horror. The opera, far from being an incitement to suicide, is inspired by Japanese tradition and folklore. Once the contact is established, the conversation continues on WhatsApp and begins with the request to participate in a mysterious game.
At this point a “paranormal” element is inserted, the character with which the participant communicate seems to know a lot of details of their private life, for example, the names of friends or relatives, or interests and hobbies.
Once the game begins, the participant enters a sort of spiral, he feels almost obliged to finish it as if it were a mission. This is one of the reasons why they follow with this strange game, the participants feel a mixture of curiosity and fear.
The main difference with other challenges is the very strong presence of threats, both to participants and their families. Momo, this strange and scary doll, threat, even death, who wants to back out of the game. This happens both with text messages and with the sending of explicit images.
All these challenges follow similar dynamics and have common characteristics. An example is the playful element. Especially at the beginning, it looks like something simple and harmless, a key factor for attracting child and teenagers.
Who participates feels involved and the desire to challenge himself and others often wins over common sense. It should, however, be remembered that initially, this kind of “game” had a strong solidarity connotation, in fact, a lot of well-known personalities have used their visibility to transmit some social messages. One example would be the Ice Bucket Challenge (2014).
Participants had to film themselves throwing a bucket of frozen water and make a donation to an association against the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. At the end of the video, those who performed the challenge must invite someone else to do the same, in this way the phenomenon becomes viral.
Another fundamental aspect that affects is the effectiveness of the first contact with the victim. In most cases, it is not clear how this happens, if only on the initiative of the participants or if the creators of these games throw bait in social media and the web, also through some online multiplayer games or chat rooms.
It is, however, evident the ability of these people to attract and intrigue the audience of the youngest. It is also well expressed an excellent knowledge of the tastes, desires and a deep understanding of the character of many teenagers. This allows them to conquer them and lure them into a dangerous spiral, from which it’s hard to get out.
And if it is true that this shows us an almost captivating profile of the creators of these challenges, very little tells us about their motivations. In the case, for example, of the Blue Whale challenge, some of the arrested claimed to have created the challenge for boredom, others to demonstrate their skills, in the computer field and beyond, to the whole world.
Different is the theme of the participants' profile. It has not yet been possible to establish real constants such as family, economic, integration and social integration problems.
Often the victims belong to different social classes, with more or less structured families and had different ages. Obviously, some personal characteristics can influence, for example, low self-esteem or a strong shyness can push the person to seek affirmation, even if ephemeral, on the web. In other words, those who fall into this spiral accept the challenges to feel part of something and see the overcoming of them as a demonstration of strength.
The challenges described, even though numerous, are just an example of the dangers hidden on the web, both for the youngest and adults.
In facts, the excessive sharing, more and more fashionable, of photos and personal data often lead to cases of abuse, extortion, phishing and identity theft.
Another phenomenon born in the real world but increasingly present on the web is cyberbullying, which although has characteristics and dynamics very different from the challenges described, is representative of the dangers of the virtual world. These are true crimes against the person, prosecutable from the legal point of view.
While the latter concerns in most cases adults, the abuse and the extortion show a decrease in the average age of the victims.
Preadolescents and teenagers, driven by the desire to show off, more and more often publish or send photos and videos in a situation of intimacy. They ignore that a simple photo sent to the wrong person can be quickly spread on the web, without their knowing. This phenomenon, known with the term “sextortion”, isn’t yet legally defined but involves several offences recognized in the various Criminal Codes, like extortion and blackmail.
Most of these situations may seem absurd and it is difficult to understand how they can become so popular and viral among the younger ones, but the theme deserves attention, both from parents and educational institutions.
The out-of-control use of social media is one of the reasons for the worrying increase in the phenomenon. Also, it’s significant the lowering of the average age of social and web access. It is now normal to see children, even 8/9 years old, using mobile devices and applications.
In this regard, a recent study carried out in Spain analyses the behaviour of the child, adolescents and their families in the use of social media and Internet. 50% of parents allow children to use Internet or apps, like WhatsApp or TikTok, without any supervision.
Just 54% of respondents say they have a good dialogue on the risks arising from the misuse of technologies.
Another study by the S2 group, which specialises in cybersecurity, shows that only 25% of parents use applications to control their children’s devices. These data show a prevalent attitude of indifference and widespread ignorance of parents towards the technologies and its use in their owns homes.
Another important aspect that comes to light is that adults themselves underestimate the dangers.
Supervision and dialogue, both by parents and by the various educational institutions, are therefore essentials through the promotion of coordinated activities.
In schools, of all levels, real lessons about the use of the technologies, that encourage students to understand their use as a means of communication, learning and development, would be useful.
Similarly, there is a need for training actions aimed at teachers and parents, to give them the tools to deal with possible risk situations. The synergy of all the parties involved in the educational action is essential because often the transmission of different messages, sometimes conflicting, leads to the underestimation of the phenomenon.
Much work still needs to be done on this, but the various educational institutions, both nationally and internationally, are increasing awareness-raising campaigns on cybersecurity, cyberbullying and more generally violent results on the web. On the web pages of the Ministries of Education of the various countries, it is possible to find activities and informative texts, available for schools, of every degree, families, children and teenagers.
The European Union is also putting in place some support tools, such as the Safer Internet Centre, now present in all Member States. It is a free consulting service that any citizen in difficulty can access.
Other useful tools are the various existing parental control applications. These applications allow both remote control of the different devices and restricted access to web pages that are inappropriate or dangerous for minors.
Another available service is time limitation, this is useful for preventing Internet addiction in child and teenagers, that more and more often prefer virtual relationships to real ones. Telephone operators often offer this type of service by simply adding them to our Internet contract.
Alternatively, it is possible to find an extended range in the various digital distribution platforms, available for both mobile devices and computers. There are so many of them but it’s possible to report three, with excellent reviews on numerous web pages specialized in cybersecurity and technologies: Kaspersky Safe Kids, Norton Family Parental Control and Qustodio.
Another very useful trick is to install a browser specially created for children and their safety. These allow parents to create blacklists in which you can place all those sites that they consider inadequate or dangerous.
All these instruments lose their effectiveness if they are not accompanied by active communication.
For example, it is advisable to inform the child or teenagers about the use of parental control applications or other kinds of control and explain the reason, because it is an opportunity for the construction of a relationship of mutual trust and responsibility.
Besides, increasing their awareness of the issues related to technology will increase their digital skills and, possibly, their ability of defence.
The technology, in all of its forms, is not the monster, the villain to be defeated. On the contrary, real training on technologies is essential to broaden their positive effects and counter side effects. It’s an immensely useful resource, a window on the world, that allows us to break down social and economic barriers, to shorten distances and to access an infinite amount of content, both educational and professional as well as entertainment.
The web, just like all the great discoveries of humanity, implies great possibility but also a great responsibility.
Image by tigerlily713
Skydiving is a sport that has become more popular with each passing year. With a growing number of people getting into skydiving and even more people becoming certified, you can find a great deal on skydiving gear these days. Many companies now offer skydiving equipment for sale so it doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg just to get your skydive. But the question now is, is skydiving Dangerous? If it’s a safe hobby, how safe is skydiving in general? Is everyone can be a skydiver?
The answer is that it depends on the individual, and is determined by the particular circumstances of skydiving, which we will discover together in these few lines.
Skydiving Changed My Life
Since the dawn of time, there has been a human dream to live the adventure of flight like a bird, the concept of leaving gravity behind and rise high through the sky freely was a creative idea.
What did happen to me after that day when I jumped through the sky?
I have answered this question many times, and I still do. Skydiving has changed my entire outlook on life, and it surely makes me a happy person. There's nothing like being in free fall on a sunny day and just staring at the world to help you understand how trivial a lot of life's issues are.
Also, your desire and your instinctive clinging to life while jumping between the earth and sky with nothing, makes you think twice about the days you wasted complaining about circumstances and your hard life. You will regret your appreciation lack for those simple pieces of stuff in your days and your relationships with your friends or family which I used to ignore them.
Free jumping taught me that my existence as a human being should be more valuable by understanding my needs, and by realizing that the real change starts from the inside of us.
Accepting your weakness, loving yourself as like you are, without the need to fake it on social media or to force someone to like you or even to believe your words….simply! You become free as that jump I did and more self-confident.
The Feeling Of a Solo Skydiver
In fact, it’s not easy to describe the skydiver feeling. Once the moment you handle your breath, the aircraft side-door be opened, the butterflies in your stomach, and the massive adrenaline increases in the veins of your body. It was an amazing feeling.
At this moment, you try to look around at the same time to focus on your next steps, you got a mix of fear-happiness, and your heart beats quickly. Then, you jump and you scream like a baby…. you make your free fall as you never felt or thought before, just new energy comes out with a high sense of challenge.
Overall, skydiving makes you feel kind like you are laying on the softest feather bed ever, especially when you have a velocity (fall speed) of 150 or 150 mph, which makes you feel that you are lucky because you still alive and your love for life grows.
The Best Country For skydiving
Skydiving is not only popular in Europe, Australia, and North America, it's also growing in popularity across the world in new countries like India, the United Arab Emirates, and china.
In some places, it's not permitted for someone who isn't an experienced skydiver to jump in the air, or he hasn’t a high safety jump record. Most skydivers prefer to make a free fall in Pattaya city- Thailand, Hawaii-United States, and Fox Glacier in New Zealand.
As well, Palm-Jumeirah in Dubai became a new catchy destination for professional skydivers and competitors who intend to fly and jump over the artificial archipelago of Dubai. Dubai hosts every year one of the most famous international skydive championships in the world, with the sponsorship of E.A.F (The Emirates Aero-sport Federation).
Is Skydiving Safe Or Dangerous?
In research of the National Safety Council has stated in 2017, that only 0.0002% of tandem skydiving case that may lead to a possible injury for every 500,000 sequential jumps. That a skydiver is more likely to be harmed by a lightning strike or by bees stings.
At 2,200ft, the process of skydiver mind can't determine his distance if it's 16,000 or less, it looks the same. For our first skydiving safety instructors, we got that 0.0007% as a dying possibility from skydiving, in comparison to 0.0167% as a dying chance in a car accident. (depended on 10,000 miles of a car driving).
As stated by the USA Parachuting Association, there is an estimation of 21 fatal accidents per 3 million jumps every year. This number is in reduction to be less than 21 per year with the help of new parachuting technologies and innovative skydiving equipment. Do you still think that skydiving is dangerous?
Skydiving Tips And Equipment
Skydiving is a very exciting and breathtaking sport, but it should always be approached with extreme caution. Before taking the plunge, it's necessary to consult a licensed expert skydiver or a skydiving monitor who can help to determine the safety factors and the best equipment that's appropriate for you before you jump, as the main Tip.
Before you skydive, you will want a high-quality parachute that's rated to go at very high altitudes. You will also need a harness to carry your parachute along with you as well as some other items for your safety. As a general rule, you will spend more on skydiving equipment if the skydiving that you are going on is considered a longer-distance type of activity than if you're going for a shorter skydive.
As well, there are few things that you will definitely need to check for your skydiving gear. First, you have to ensure it's breathable, as this will make your experience a lot safer. In the second step, you want to verify if it's well-ventilated to help keep you cool during the day.
Finally, you want to make sure that you're equipped with a GPS so that you don't get lost when you're skydiving. Also, you have to buy a high-quality helmet and an altimeter priced between $150- $350 (depending on your budget).
Skydiving has a lot of benefits but it's not a one-size to fit experience. Some people are completely ignorant of skydiving rules, and unaware of what dangers may occur if they take it for fun only.
The happy news is, you can be a good skydiver, able to soar thousands of feet in the air safely, and you can move at high speeds through the air. With all the different kinds of available skydiving equipment, it's important to know the differences in the prices and qualities of skydiving equipment before buying.
References
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tandem_skydiving
Image by szanyierika97
Last week, in this ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, the governments were fighting to reduce Covid-19 victims, and people were busy following Kim Kardashian or Kylie Jenner's cosmetics products, a new Donald Trump tweet, or even a new Elon Musk’s innovations and his SpaceX projects. But suddenly we heard: “Homosexual people have the right to be in a family. They are children of God”.
A few days ago, in a new biography documentary called ‘Francesco’, “Pope Francis” defended same-sex married couple as a new color of civil union, and people whatever their sex and whatever their relationship have a right to have legal support. Everyone has a personal tendency and a concept to his or her civil partnership. As a result, Pope Francis became the first leader in the Vatican who endorses same-sex civil union, and gay rights as he described them as “Children of God”.
Catholic Church And Gay Marriage
On 13 March 2013, Pope Francis has been selected to be the Catholic Christianity speaker in all religious events and human ceremonies. As a Pontiff, is not an easy responsibility at all, especially he has continuously spoken about the necessity for the Catholic Church to accept and welcome all people regardless of sexual orientation, and gay people as an example, when he said:” If a person is a gay, and seeks God and has goodwill, who am I to judge?”.
Also, on 1 April 2019; Pope Francis noted in an interview with Jordi Evole a Catalan journalist, that Catholic teaching including its position on marriage must be merciful towards all LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender), and he added:“ Tendencies are not a sin! But if you have a tendency to anger and hurt people, the sin is there”.
During a long period of Vatican history, the Catholic Church tyrannized gay people and considered homosexuality as an ‘intrinsic defect’. Also, the church was teaching that gay relationships and homosexuality is a sin in general. But now, Pope Francis speaks out in favor of gay status.
Same-Sex Marriage And Governments
Francesco documentary will create a significant impact in several countries, and governments where gay people do not have a basic civil right and recognition of their partnerships, like Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, etc.
Regardless of the ethnicity or the religion, the Pop words will make a new light spot for LGBT organizations like IGLYO, ILGA to demand more freedom as a human need. That will lead to more pressure on many governments, which already refused to recognize same-sex marriage as a choice, not as a crime, or failed to make a real law framework in reason to protect individual liberties and gays communities.
Gay Marriage History
Since the first century, same-sex marriage or gay marriage was existing in the old world like China, Europe, the Middle East, but in other names like “Equal marriage”. The equal or gay marriage in that period was as same as now, it had several types of same-sex unions, with various conditions and different cultural positions when people were lived in that period.
In some old manuscripts, during the Zhou period of China, there was a story of Pan Zhang who married Wang Zhongxian. Also, equal marriage was known in Ancient Greece, Canaan land, old Egypt, Rome Empire (Emperor Nero has married twice, two men at different times).
International Status Of Same-Sex Marriage
In 2001, the Netherlands became the first nation in the world to establish the opportunity for two persons of the same gender (two men or two women), to marry and to create a family too. Since then, over 15,000 gay couples have wed. Today, in nine other nations besides the Netherlands, gay marriage is possible also.
As a result, in 2003 the Belgian parliament confirmed the attestation of same-sex marriage and registered the partnership between the same genders as a recognized right.
International funding has grown in recent years for individuals campaigning for same-sex marriage rights around the world. In 2017, it was Malta, Australia and Germany authorized same-sex marriage, and Taiwan in 2019 made a fingerprint in civil freedom history, becoming Asia's first country to welcome marriage equality legislation.
On May 26, 2020, Costa Rica was the first Central American nation to allow same-sex marriage. So, there are until now 29 countries where equal marriage is legally permitted and attested, and after the Pope Francis documentary, it can be a new push to other countries to take a courageous step forward in human rights. However, same-sex couples should still keep in mind that their marriage and its consequences will not be recognized in every country, especially in Islamic ones.
70% Of The USA People Support Gay Marriage!
Until 2019, the number of Married same-sex couples increased from 486,000 to 980,000 same-sex couples after the U.S.A Supreme Court Rulings on June 26, 2015.
One month ago, the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) announced an unexpected result of a random survey of 2,500 respondents from every state in the USA who were asked their opinions on a lot of social topics, LGBTQ rights were one of them.
In time, 28% of Americans were against gay marriage. The survey showed that more than two thirds (70%) of Americans said they were in favor of giving same-sex spouses the right to marry. The highest number of supporters recorded in the survey included Protestant Catholics of other Christians and a few non-Christians of both races.
Finally, we can define marriage as a civil legal union for the life of one woman and one man, as an aware couple they chose each other based on love as the main reason. Marriage is how society affirms a decision that lovers made to take care of each other through good times and bad times too.
Gay people are human as well as heterosexual lovers, they love each other genuinely. So firstly, who are we to judge them? Secondly, do you think the “Pop Francis” documentary is just an innocent merciful message or a sneaky way to hide something for the next coming days?
Please let me know your valuable opinion in a comment, you have a lot to share with us.
REFERENCES
www.illiamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu
Debra Umberson, “Challenges and Opportunities for Research on Same-Sex Relationships Journal of Marriage and Family 77, no. 1 (2015) 96-111.
Is your car a smart connected car? I don't mean, does it connect to the satellite internet in some way?. But, I mean: “is it capable to communicate directly with your physical situation, and with other vehicles in reason to protect you?”
Families with young children can enjoy the thrill and excitement of driving in safe and reliable cars, but many adults are also choosing to travel in safer cars. Cars that are manufactured with better quality safety features allow everyone on board to be comfortable in their vehicle, which makes traveling more enjoyable for all concerned. In these few lines, we will make together a review of some of the safest cars for family members in 2020.
Safe small and midsize cars
In all six crashes test categories, Toyota Camry 2020, got the first level in IIHS with the highest safety rate, it is a midsize car and a popular choice for families because it is a cheap car to buy, is relatively safe to drive with Sense-P drive assistant, and has a lot of safety features in it. Toyota Camry has a great safety record for getting full grades, even from an instructor, so it is a good car that we should consider purchasing.
It has many safety features built into it, including a four-point seat belt, a front airbag, and a vehicle stability system.
As well, Camry 2020 has a smart steering wheel lock that prevents it from being-driven while the driver is not holding the steering wheel securely in place.
Even though it is an expensive car, the Tesla -Sedan Model 3 with four doors, has a great safety record and a high crash worthiness evaluation. The Tesla 3 is made with high safety features like a roll-over protection system, with easy seat anchors to use for your child with perfect head restraints & seats, a car-mounted side curtain airbags, a side-curtain defroster, and an auto emergency button.
There is also an emergency locking system on board that locks the doors of your car in case of an accident, and it also has an advanced parking brake, and advanced collision avoidance assist.
Although the Kia Soul 4 Door Wagon 2020 is a smaller car in the midsize category, especially for the driver side, it got the top safety pick with its some safety features as well, and it won a huge place within other Asian car brands. The Kia Soul - model 2020 is a secure car with a 100% innovative lane departure warning-prevention, a rollover sensor, an automatic seatbelt lock, and a car-mounted emergency brake. It is also a very durable car and has a high safety rating (4.7/5 IIHS).
One of the most secure and credible cars for your family members with comfortable - supportive front seats is a Mazda 6-4 doors (starting at $24,100). This car has received a lot of praise for its safety record, and it has lengthened curtain airbags on all sides. Even though it may seem like a simple car, it has a high reputation for being a safe car to drive. There are other great choices out there, but no one got a higher rating than Mazda 6, and it is still the best overall choice for a car driver in Japan.
Are smart cars safe?
Staying safe and protected behind the wheel is your essential priority, and I understand your duty as a mum or a dad who wants to pick up his child to school without any driving mistake or phobia. As an attractive option, smart cars as ''The smart For2'' looks like a safer one with a high IIHS test result.
Google cars are in progress to be safer more and more.
In 2011, Google initiate testing autonomous cars self-driving technology called by Levandowski technology and since then to lunch, an AI car named WAYMO. The department of transportation in the USA has announced definitions of various levels of autonomous driving. Google's car is categorized as the first level with full automation, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and driver alert systems (e. g drowsiness detection) to provide drivers with better driving experience.
Google or Tesla models are as well as several other industry companies are focusing on providing absolute safety on all roads in a way that "Artificial intelligence" could enhance our emotional as well as our practical relationship with cars.
As a neutral note, if we look deeper into smart cars, they are also safe with fully autonomous technologies and more fuel-efficient. But, if an accident happened, smart cars are mostly small and unable to resist the crash.
The safest luxury car in 2020
One of the most essential factors, before you purchase a car, is that you have to know the use purpose and if it's equipped to be safe, and how much it costs.
For instance, if you live alone and you are single, and no one else in your family has cars, a new economical car is probably going to be a better option than a luxury one. Otherwise, if you have a family, and you saved more cash then, you might consider buying a luxury car.
In 2020, if you visit an exhibit of luxurious cars, you will find yourself confused and surrounded by many high deluxe ones like Rolls-Royce, Bentley.
The question is what I want to choose? Here are the top 3 safest and luxurious cars which earned an IIHS safety PICK+ RATING in 2020:
1. Audi A6 model -2020
Starts at $54,900 with a virtual cockpit plus, HD matrix-design headlights, and a panoramic sunroof. We can't forget that the German monster A6 Audi has 6 airbags, it is well-equipped with a virtual 360-degree view camera, and a smart adaptive cruise control system to support the driver keep safe 100% in a stop-go traffic situation.
2. Jaguar XE MODEL -2020
Starts at $39,900 with luxurious cutting edge technology, high comfort amenities. Jaguar XE 2020 has a rear camera, speed limiter, emergency braking which gives extra help in time you need it. As well, driver-assistive innovation is a dynamic feature in all Jaguar XE models, to win the safety competition.
3. Porsche Panamera -2020
Starts at $87,200 with four-doors, a smooth finish leather, a ceramic composite brake availability (P.C.C.B), and a very accurate safety tech like lane change assist, LED matrix headlights, and a blind-spot monitor.
The safety award winner car in 2020
It's not easy to be one of the safest new cars, the peak performers must provide the best protection for adult and child occupants, to expect and minimize the harm to pedestrians and cyclists in collisions, and an active safety system that can take action to prevent accidents by using satellite navigation as like F16 systematic satellite technology.
Mercedes-Benz C- Class, Volvo XC 60 model 2020, or Audi A8 were in the highest-scoring to win the first place. BMW 3-series model 2020 came strongly with a new generation of a safety system that provides a smart AEV system, automatic emergency brake system, also, if there is a potential collision it will warn the drivers with help of a radar and a camera to sense what's ahead of it.
BMW of model 3- Series is a secure place to be in a crash because it's attentive at avoiding collisions in the first place. If you don't respond to BMW safety warning, it will just automatically break as you could feel it there and you can see it slowing the wheels down.
Every mum or dad will prefer to secure his family travel for a vacation, and when selecting the safest car for members of the family, you can find a car to fit all needs. Just make sure to choose the one that is both safe and durable for the family.
Safety is the main factor to be considered in all your life. When you buy any one of the vehicles that are new or used before, it is important to make sure that you buy the vehicle from an expert and a trusted dealer, because he has more experience with this type of cars and their safety systems. I don't want you to end up with a car that could potentially cause a problem down the road.
References:
When you decide to visit Spain, you have to choose which of its mini-countries you are going to try to know in-depth, as happens with many other countries. Just like New York is not Chicago and London is not Torquay, eating pintxos in the streets of Bilbao is not the same as drinking fino at the Seville April Fair. Likewise, relaxing on a beach in Fuerteventura (Canary Islands) is not the same as marveling at the Roman theater in Merida (Extremadura).
With this said, if you have chosen to visit Valencia, you are in for a treat.
Besides what all tourist guides will tell you about the typical places to visit or historical monuments you shouldn't miss, here is the definite "10 commandments" of Valencia and the Valencians.
1. Valencians love fire and firecrackers
And I don't only mean during Fallas (see below); I mean all year long. Whenever there is a celebration, there is an excuse to light up some firecrackers. The louder, the better.
If you walk by a church and there is a wedding going on, beware of the two or three people (normally men) laying out what seems to be a brown rope with many short sticks tied all over it. They are getting ready to light it up when the bride and groom leave the church. Back away because, believe me, it will get loud. Most locals don't even turn their heads when it happens, but most tourists react as if someone had thrown a bomb or a building had collapsed. I've lived here more than 20 years, and I don't get used to it. It always startles me.
2. Valencians are loud
Maybe because of the extreme high volume of firecrackers and their frequent presence in their lives, many Valencians don't have very fine hearing and, thus, are a bit loudmouthed. Don't be alarmed when you hear them talk at a bar or on the street, they are not arguing heatedly, despite the volume. They are just excited and a little hard of hearing.
3. Valencians will speak to you
They are truly friendly and very proud of their city. If you ask for directions, they will walk with you or drive out of their way to help you get wherever you need to go.
Although young people speak some English, if you know any Spanish, you might be confused when you hear them talk since many Valencians mix Castillian with Valencian. Maybe you know the words "chico – chica," "amigo – amiga," or "tio – tia." The last pair mean uncle and aunt, but they are used as "dude." What you probably haven't heard is "tete" or "teta". Valencians are known in the whole Spain as the "tetes" because they frequently refer to each other as "tete" or "teta." (The latter should not be confused with the word for female breast. It's not offensive, and it is only used to refer to a female friend or sister). They also use "nano," and very rarely in its female form, with the same meaning and in the same situations as "tete".
4. Valencians are late
Don't get me wrong. I am not (only) talking about arriving late when they are supposed to meet you, which is a national trait, unfortunately. I am talking about their eating schedules. Don't expect to be able to have lunch, the most copious meal of the Spanish diet, before 1:30 pm, unless you go to a very touristy place or a gastrobar, where kitchens are open all day long.
5. Valencia is flat (super bike friendly)
Given its flatness, Valencia is the ideal city to bike everywhere. You might want to rent a bike at your hotel or hostel, or you might want to use Valenbisi, an inexpensive public bike system that's very easy to manage through its website or directly at the terminal. (There are hundreds throughout the city.). Regarding this system, I have a couple of warnings for you. One, you have a time limit of usage. If you want to take a longer ride, you have to recharge your card at a terminal. Two, make sure you park it well when you return it. (Wait for the long beep.) If you don't, they will charge you by the minute, and it can be a nasty surprise on your credit card.
6. Valencia's wine is great and cheap
If you compare it to the United States or the United Kingdom, eating and drinking are surprisingly affordable in general. Especially if you enjoy wine, this is the place to be. There are many family-owned vineyards in the area of Utiel-Requena, producing more-than-decent red wines starting from 2,50 euros a bottle and great ones for not more than 10 euros. Some companies like Vicente Garcia have grown to reach the international market massively, but the small vineyards are just as good or even better. Try using a group coupon to visit one of them. You'll be surprised of how well they'll treat you, how generous they are with their tastings, and how much fun you can have with the wine-producing-process as you do it yourself (if you dare).
7. The Mascletás at Fallas time
This is a very interesting time of the year, an experience you don't want to miss, unless you hate crowds and loud noises.
Mascletas are the epitome of the Valencian love for firecrackers. Every day from March 1st until March 19th, both included, at 2:00 pm in the main square (Plaza del Ayuntamiento) professional pyrotechnics fire up 240 kilograms of gunpowder in about 5 minutes. Valencians and tourists gather around the area and to enjoy the show. Beware if you want to be close to "the action" because people start arriving at the square around 1:00 pm. They stand there until the Fallera Mayor (a young woman chosen to represent all the falleras that year, sort of a Miss Fallas) says in Valencian "Senyor Pirotècnic, pot començar la mascletà" (Mr. Pyrotechnic, you may start the firecrackers). Everybody claps and screams, and then comes the greatest noise you've ever heard, even if you are far away from the center of the square. I advise you to open your mouth because the sound is even more overwhelming if you don't.
Oh! If you want to have lunch afterwards (I know, it's late, but it's the Spanish perfect time,), make a reservation or run to a restaurant right after the mascleta is finished, especially on weekends and on the 19th.
8. The weather
Valencia has very nice weather from March until June and from October until the end of December. As you may have guessed, January and February are pretty cold (for a Mediterranean Spaniard), between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, and July, August, and September are awfully hot and humid (for anybody), around 35 degrees Celsius. Normally, hotels are air conditioned, but houses aren’t. Therefore, you would be wise to start practicing meditation or smooth wrist movements for your fan if you rented a house or an apartment. The rainy season (what Valencians call "la gota fria," meaning the cold drop) begins typically at the end of October and continues throughout all of November. You will notice that people use their cars more and that they drive more slowly when it rains. This is because Valencians cannot stand the rain. They will cancel plans and avoid going out altogether, but this doesn't mean the rain here is heavy and unbearable. It's a cultural thing.
9. Paella and other rice recipes
You will encounter many offers of paella, but don't let them fool you. The typical paella valenciana doesn't include ingredients such as fish, shellfish, red pepper, olives or any ingredients other than rice, chicken, rabbit (yes, I know.), garrofon (huge white beans), and green beans. The spices they use are rosemary and saffron, which you should be aware of in case you are allergic to any of them. In addition, paella should be made directly on a fire, though it's hard to find places where they adhere to that ancient rule. Look out for the sign "hecho a leña" if you want to try the real deal.
Other typical rice recipes are "arroz negro" (black rice) and "arroz a banda," both of which include fish and "alioli" or "ajoaceite." (It looks like mayonnaise, but it has a lot of garlic.) Some restaurants also serve "arroz al horno" (rice made in the oven), which includes potatoes, sausages, tomatoes, and garlic among other ingredients.
If you want to eat great paella at the beach (Malvarrosa, Patacona, Saler, or Albufera), I suggest that you make a reservation in advance, especially if you plan to dine on the weekend. Valencians love eating out, and paella is their favorite Sunday lunch. What is my favorite place? Without a doubt, and I promise the restaurant doesn’t pay me commission, is Restaurante La Paz at Malvarrosa beach (25-30 EUR/person). It is very close to Hotel Las Arenas, which, by the way, is the nicest hotel in town and which has an amazing and affordable spa.
10. Horchata
You may have tried powdered Mexican Horchata and may have experienced that it tastes like sweet almond milk. However, it cannot be compared with "horchata de chufa" because of the local drink’s unique flavor and due to the fact that the kind of "chufas" (tiger nuts) they use grow almost exclusively in the Valencia region. Actually, some of us also eat chufas as a healthy snack. They look like little brown beans, and they are very juicy, if kept in water.
If you go to the village of Alboraya (just a short subway ride from the center of the city) you will have the chance of tasting the best horchata. At Daniel or any horchata place, they will ask you if you want it "liquida" (liquid) or "granizada" (icy). I'd recommend liquid, if you also want to try and dunk some "fartons," a typical stick-shaped bun.
Spain is, no doubt, always a wonderful choice for a visit. Although some people find it's such a small country that you could visit for just a few days, if you really want to get to know us Spaniards and fall in love with Spain, you need time and planning. After what you have just read, I'm sure, by now, you are feeling inevitably drawn to visit Valencia City specifically. Believe me, the pull of this attraction will make it hard for you to leave once you're here. It happened to me 21 years ago.
If you have the unusual times thinking of running your own business, there is no room for doubt, you can have an entrepreneur spark in you, which you should not switch off. There will be lots of challenges to face up throughout your pathway to be a successful businessman, particularly at the beginning. It is more likely than when you have visualized your start up, you have considered making a Business Plan and you are not clear about it. This is why, in this article we lay out some of the basics of a right Business Plan construction, from understanding the concept and uses, to giving you easy techniques for improving how to make it. We hope after you read the article, those brilliant ideas in your head overtake your imagination and the defining planning stage to come true.
When we heard about a Business Plan, many doubtful concepts come to our mind, and that is because businesses schools and people all the time use all the following terms alike: strategic plan, feasibility study, plan’s assessment and business plan. These concepts, seemingly equal within business and executive technical jargon have slight differences. Whereas the project’s assessment focuses on liquidity and profitability of an investment plan, the feasibility study is aimed to assess the viability of the plan in operating and technical aspects. On the other hand, a strategic plan, establishes the long term plan for the smooth running of the company. Finally, the business plan approach is the analysis of opportunities, and the economic, technical and market’s viability. As you note, it is easy confusing the terms and tangle in their meanings, approaches and purposes.
What is exactly a Business Plan?
It is a document written in a clear, succinct and simple style to describe the business idea, objectives and daily activities and strategies for achieving them. It is a guide to understand how the company will work. The friendlier it is in its construction as a whole (structure, writing and illustration), the more likely to be effective in showing the idea’s quality. A Business Plan can be created whether for new companies or for businesses which are already running. In this article, we will focus specially on its construction for new businesses.
Which are the previous stages to a Business Plan?
Once you have got an opportunity to exploit into the market, you must elaborate a precise business idea, which is possible by answering every single question below.
Imagine we want to run a Pizzeria.
Which products and/or services will I offer?
Our main product will be the pizza. However, currently is too much appreciated the innovation and pizza is perfectly flexible for creating new flavors and sensations. We could go from the classic Pomodoro style to crazy Nutella Pizza concept. We have the choice to combine lots of ingredients. Besides, we must offer desserts and drinks, and invent exotic alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. We should choose between a pizzeria to take away, sit at a table and eat and both kind of services. We can provide customers the experience of watching how the pizza is made.
Who will my potential customers be?
After making a market analysis and detecting the unsatisfied needs, we will guess who my clients will be. More comprehensive studies to forecast the demand potential such as linear regression, multiple regression, structural econometric methods, and others provide more accurate information. By using simple methods we could identify our customers as the local people who live in the neighborhood of the future pizzeria location, as example. Later, we could expect to attract more customers that will depend on brand positioning and actions to increase our market share.
What unsatisfied needs would I fulfill with my enterprise?
A non-covered need can lead to a sort of business that have never existed before or the great improvement of another one which is already in the market. While answering these questions we should ask ourselves too:
With this business idea, which new business am I creating? Or how am I improving an existent one?
In this case we could identify:
- The wants to try something new in pizzas and the customer’s choice to create their own pizza style.
- The exclusive experience of eat and learn about cooking at the same time.
- What is the added-value of my offer with regards my competitors?
Added-value is going beyond the expectations limits of the customers to a right combination of the benefits and attributes of our offerings. In this particular case, we could list many features of our product/services which would make attractive, unique and genuine the business idea. Among them, the possibilities to customers come in our kitchens and create their own pizza, are one of the most interesting. They would watch how the pizza is made and they would receive a kind explanation about pizza cooking process, best ingredients and special suggestions. Another factor may be a recreation space for children, this would allow adults better enjoy the moment while children play. All the facilities we introduce in order to offer more comfort enrich enormously the product, for example a closed door area and a terrace too.
- Which will my income sources be? And how high are they going to be?
The direct source of incomes will be the sale of food and beverage whether at the location or at home delivery service.
Apart from the questions above, the entrepreneur should make a forecast of financial, economic, technological and human resources which will be required. Furthermore, the business model statement is another deciding step, after conceiving the business idea. The company’s model is something similar to the income sources: Where will the company get revenues from?, which is a determining factor to survive and moreover, generate profitability. At this moment, a financial analysis is done, by applying different investments appreciation methods to ensure the project will be profitable.
If the project is accepted, the entrepreneur should pass to acquire the financial resources to go ahead. They are frequently family or friends who support the entrepreneur as they can. Nevertheless, it is often needed higher investments only reachable by investors and financial institutions support.
What is a Business Plan used for?
The usefulness of a Business Plan can be explained from two points of view: the internal and the external or financial.
The Business Plan searches for describing and detailing the business idea, the company processes and its integration in the better possible way to be attractive and captivate future supporters.
From the internal point of view, a Business Plan can be considered a self-assessment tool for the daily company performance because looking at the plan, we can identify the existence of breaches regarding processes and standards. It is good to say the Business Plan is not a one-off activity. Despite it is conceived at the starting point of a business, it can be a powerful management instrument in everyday business life. Due to these important features, there are different sorts of Business Plans depending on its target public: investors or managers.
Internally the benefits to create a Business Plan are:
- Attracting people who wants to participate in the work team.
- Analyzing the potential demand and its variation.
- Estimating revenues and the period of time required to recover the investment.
- Developing a strategic plan with short/long term objectives and strategies.
- Describing the operations of functional areas and the combination of their activities as a whole.
- Estimating the budget for each functional area.
- Simulating different scenarios where the company could be in the future, which means imagining company working upon different conditions due to environment changes.
- Establishing strategies for each proposed scenario.
- Detecting risks (legal, political, economic, financial, and operational) whose occurrence probabilities and effects could be reduced or totally removed. The right writing of a Business Plan leads to external or financial benefits. Among all these external benefits below, the most important is financing.
- Acquisition of financial resources by informing investors or others funding organizations (banks and credit institutions) about the project profitability expectations.
- Gaining potential customers and suppliers as a first step to tie up long term relationships between them and the company.
- Presentation of the business idea to the overall society and convince it about project viability.
- Arising the interest, confidence, and liking towards the business idea described.
Although there are lots of models of structure for a Business Plan, the following is a summary with the most important factors included:
Formulation and description of the business idea
The business idea should be formulated by answering the questions above as the Pizzeria example given before. The idea should be detailed as much as possible to achieve a public right understanding.
Opportunity study or external analysis (competitors study, demand forecast, micro and macro-variables analysis)
The goal here is forecasting the demand the business will have, who will my products/services buyers be? And how many will they be? Which is the current demand of my product? Looking for the answers to these questions we face up to the current offering of the product we want to launch, it means the companies who sell actually these products. The competitor’s analysis will allow to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the rivals, their good practices and the breach they leave. The data collection about rival companies will allow to estimate the demand by simple and/or complex techniques which can be applied in qualitative and quantitative methodologies. In this external analysis the Michael Porter’s five forces model and PESTLE (Political, Economic, Socio-cultural, Technological, Legal and Environmental) analysis are advised to be used, the first one to study the company micro-environment and the other one to scan the organization macro-environment, respectively.
Internal analysis (strategic plan and a SWOT matrix)
A strategic plan states the mission and the vision of the company as well as defines its generic strategy to follow: leader in costs, differentiation or niche player. Short and long-term objectives are defined with their correspondence strategies. At this stage it is good to make an analysis to distinguish the market position of the new company through a SWOT matrix. It could determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats the company has. It is an internal business analysis.
Operational Plan
This step implies a technique study of which it will be estimated the equipment, infrastructure and tools required to make the business activities. This plan will list all the processes involved and its integration to get a final product with the quality requirements established.
Financial Plan
This plan will consider three main budgets: sales, investment and expenses which have been estimated with the information obtained in previous steps. The financial plan defines if the idea proposed is the enough profitable to constitute a business. The most commonly used methods to assess a project investment are the NPV (net present value) and the IRR (internal rate of return). Both indicators will determine if the project is acceptable and the investment payback time.
Marketing Plan
This plan will create the basis to commercialize a product/service by combining four P’s: Price, Product, Place and Promotion. In the initial stages of the product life cycle, marketing dollars are allocated towards to create customers and that is what this plan will do at this point.
Human Resources Plan
This plan will establish the sort of employees needed in the company team, their duties, responsibilities and qualifications as well as the salary policy and others essential factors related to human resources: the most important asset of any company.
Below are some tips on how to draft an effective Business Plan:
- The language throughout the document should be clear and unambiguous.
- We should not only make a passionate speech about the business idea. Each idea should be justified in terms of finances, logistic, operations and legal aspects.
- It is not necessary to end an analysis area to continue to the next stage. For example, it is not necessary to stop developing the logistic scheme of the business if the financial analysis has not ended yet.
- Each amend in the drafting will bind the remainder of the document. Make sure you review the effects of every change included.
- Business Plan precedents are often used to assist with the drafting of a new one. If you are using a precedent make sure you do not follow it slavishly and you do not bend the facts to fit the precedent. The goal will be to amend the precedent ensuring it covers the all requirements of your present idea.
- Use creativeness and give details of information.
- Illustrate the text with diagrams, charts and schemes.
This article lays out some of the basics of a right Business Plan construction, from understanding the concepts and uses, to giving you easy techniques for improving how to make it.
Imagen
The last of us part two probably was the most awaited exclusive for the PlayStation 4 this year and even before that there was a huge hype behind it. Everyone was expecting to know what happened with Joel and Ellie after the ambiguous ending of the first title back in 2013, but did it meet the expectations?
The last of us part 2 had it all to be the game of the year and even some weeks prior to its release the specialized press worshiped it as a masterpiece. However, none of it really matters when the audience is the judge and executioner, and they spoke clearly.
The game received a huge amount of hate and it suffered from the so called "review bombing" on the Metacritic site, which basically led to a stakeout of their system to qualify games. It seems that, once again, the coming of The Last of Us is causing a lot of changes in the industry but maybe not for the better.
The hate that this game has caused is such that even the developer Naughty Dog and some voice actors behind it have received threats and all kinds of insults, which leads to the question, should the players be allowed to have so much power when it comes to criticize a game?
It is obvious that games, particularly this one, exist because there was interest but overall love for the characters. The first TLOU succeeded because of its great story, which presented the relation between a broken father and a young girl trying to find her place in a devastated world. The game became a banner for the videogames as another form of art because of its cinematic presentation and a well-developed story.
The impact that the game generated was important but maybe and just maybe, the impression of greatness from the first TLOU is what is blinding the audiences from seeing the actual message and intention of the series.
It is important to remember that the concept on which TLOU stands is not new. We have seen the story of humanity trying to survive in a postapocalyptic world filled with zombies or infected people over and over again. To cite some examples: The Walking Dead and World War Z in movies and series, and Resident Evil or Left 4 dead in videogames
And probably one of the most valuable lessons from the aforementioned examples is that zombies are not the biggest threat in a postapocalyptic world, is the same greed and despair of other persons what represents the biggest threat. In a world where resources and safe places are odd, people will do everything, literally everything to fulfill their needs, which obviously includes killing and take advantage of others.
TLOU is conscious about this fact and it always has been. One of the most remarkable mechanics in both games is the ability to use common materials such as rags, alcohol and pipes to craft weapons or healing items. This mechanic makes the player decide whether to use a certain product or not in a given moment and also it takes the player to constantly explore the surroundings in search of valuable materials. In the “easy” difficulty this does not have a lot of relevance since there are a lot of things to use, however in the hardest difficulties this is pretty evident.
In the same way, since the first game it was pretty evident that humans were a threat. As a matter of fact, the most stressful situations were not caused by clickers or runners but by humans. The very own ending is just the depiction of a man blinded by his devotion to a girl that he sees as his new daughter, which leads him to sacrifice the possible salvation of mankind in exchange for an ideal life where he can protect his daughter and live happily with her.
Everyone knew that the actions of Joel towards the ending of the game were wrong, he was not only stopping the creation of a cure but also killing innocents and torturing them. As players it was easy to empathize with Joel because we were the witnesses and partners in crime, no matter if unconsciously we knew that it was wrong.
The events that detonate the story of the part two are just a consequence of what we experienced seven years ago, and once again the rage that the game causes is not because the game is being unfair but because we only knew a part of the story.
The people at Naughty Dog were conscious of it and even if players did not realize it, it was one of the main pillars on which the game leaned.
The Videogame as a form of art
No matter where and when the question “what is art?” always starts a big conversation. Everyone has a different point of view and a different definition but one of the most common and accepted definitions is that art is “something that evokes emotions or feelings”. The power behind this statement is that art does not have to provoke just pleasant sensations but also discomfort. As humans, of course that we try to escape from any kind of problem and pain but also, we cannot help it and sometimes we look for those sensations out of pure curiosity.
The part two of the last of us takes this to the extreme and bases its experience on the rage, not only Ellie’s rage but also the player’s. At first the game seizes this mutual thirst of vengeance and provides the players with more tools and weapons than ever. It still keeps the survival experience from the first game but it gets so easy to forget since now the players are not looking to protect someone or look for a cure, now they just want to make pay the persons that caused them so much suffering, no matter the cost. Also, the stealth options are still there but unless the enemy are clickers then it does not seem as a proper way to get revenge.
It does not end there, if TLOU2 had been just that then it would not be special, it would be just one more game about killing but with a bit more of refinement.
The element that caused so much controversy was the inclusion of Abby in the story and not as an incidental character whose only objective is being the villain, no, basically she becomes an important figure and half of the game revolves around her. We get to explore all her motivations and troubles.
The great majority of complaints come from this fact and of course that it is not pleasant to play as Abby, but the game has a good reason for it and unfortunately many failed to see that, which led players to experience those parts reluctantly. Abby is there to show the player the cruelty and pain that Ellie’s actions caused in her search for vengeance and also to show that they were not just soldiers but humans with problems, relations and hopes.
The parts where the player controls Abby depict Ellie as what she really is: a person that is taking lives out of a tantrum just to fulfill her ambitions. In parallel, this is not far at all from the actions of Joel at the first TLOU, is just that now we get to see the consequences that such actions can trigger.
In a similar way the presence of Abby is there, as ironic as it may sound, to live the same arc of Joel where she has to rescue a kid and take him away from the destiny he could face if he stays with the cult where he was raised. The difference this time around is that at least the players know that the act of rescuing him is the “right” thing to do, and if they kill some people across the way it would be beneficial since the persons from the cult are despicable human beings.
Finally, the most important thing about Abby’s presence in the game is the fact that she is, in a way, an advanced stage of what Ellie could become if she were to accomplish her vengeance. Players get to control as Abby after the first half of the story, a point where she has reached her long-awaited vengeance but then…nothing, life continues and she realizes that nothing has changed, her father is still dead and she still feels empty. She is now looking for a reason to live since she has nothing to live for in her group, no ambitions, no hopes or any kind of relationship that could retain her in Washington, the main scenario of the game and the remains of the city where she was forced to live after losing her father.
It is hard to perceive this if we stubbornly only see the world according to Ellie, but how can we help it? After all, the experience with Abby does not compare with the whole game we got to play as Joel and Ellie seven years ago.
That is why the game is so uncomfortable, because it plays with the nostalgia and the love for such-well known characters in a way that few developers would dare to do so. As mentioned before, the fate of the characters is non-trivial, every action of the past has its repercussion in TLOU2 and as hard as it can be it is a reality we must accept, after all The Last of us is not about heroes and villains, it is about survival in a hostile world, where concepts such as “moral” are outdated.
The fragility of life
One of the most outstanding characteristics in both games of the series is the ability to make the player feel fragile. Of course, they are games and they are supposed to be fun, otherwise it would be extremely frustrating to die just with one shot from the enemies, although something like that happens when a clicker approaches the characters.
In this sense, the series tries to recreate as much as it can the feeling of living in a world without safe places, and even if in-game the players feel invincible, during several cutscenes we get the confirmation that the world of TLOU is merciless one.
During the first game it is easy to believe that Joel is the toughest man on earth but when the part of winter arrives and he gets hurt, it is impossible to not feel despair, specially when his life is at stake because of an infection, something that in the “real” world would be fixed with a visit to a hospital.
In the second game this sensation is even stronger, not because of an illness but because we realize that weapons are lethal. As said above, the cutscenes deal with the lethal plausibility of guns or knifes and without any notice beloved characters, friends of both Ellie and Abby get killed or seriously injured. The shock these cutscenes provoked was evident, but once again, the audience seems to forget that no one is invulnerable or untouchable.
It is true that Ellie has some kind of advantage over almost every person because of her immunity but still, she is a human being and during the last section of the game this fact is threw onto the player's faces.
At the end, The Last of Us part 2 finishes with several and deep repercussions for almost all the main characters. They end up with scars, both physical and mental. Their bodies, minds, and relationships end up without repair and they realize that, specially Ellie, who sees this reality, one that Abby could not see.
TLOU2 is not a perfect game but it is not a complete failure as many claimed, it is just a game that is honest with itself, a game that depicts the uncomfortable consequences that the first game triggered.
It may take several years for the audiences to walk the same path as Ellie, a path where they will come to realize that there is no power in this world that can change the reality, because life is what it is, not what it should be.
Image from Alexey Savchenko
Sometimes it happens that something lies directly nearby, but you don't notice it. You pass by friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. You forget an already listened to a lecture and recently read books. Who is to blame? Memory? Attention?
Memory and attention are the interconnected functions of thinking in a person.
Attention. A selective orientation of perception of this or that object.
You certainly noticed that some things are easier to remember if you pay a little more attention. For example, many people have problems with remembering names at the first meeting with a person. To remember a name, it is necessary to think simply a little about it, to try to write it mentally, and also remember or think some modifications of a name.
Your body’s perception capture 7-9 irritants at once and no more.
For this reason, you badly perceive long phrases. Statistically, 50% of adults don't understand the meaning of suggestions if they contain more than 13 words, and children of seven years don't perceive suggestions more than from 8 words.
We pay close attention for about 10 minutes.
Thus it is unimportant, whether the subject and quality of the story are interesting. Put before us through Cicerone or the latest film from any favorite director or even a rock concert, we will pay attention for a maximum of only the first 10 minutes, with time attention dissipates that with a new strength to watch an event.
There is such a wonderful syndrome.
An inattention of blindness.
There are different exercises and techniques to determine it. The idea of ‘An inattention of blindness’ that we don't see what is happening if we are occupied with other tasks. It mainly concerns men.
Emotions best help to strengthen an object in our long-term memory. K. S. Stanislavsky correctly characterized the value of this condition, saying to be attentive, it isn't enough just to stare at an object but to see it from different points views, to diversify its perception.
Characteristics of Attention.
Stability. Drawing attention at the same object or to the same task for a lengthy period.
The concentration of attention.
An increase of signal strength at the limitation of the field of perception. The concentration offers not only a long deduction of attention on an object but also derivation from all other influences that aren't important for the subject at present.
The concentration of attention is shown because of the concentration of consciousness on an object for obtaining the fullest information from it.
Distribution of attention.
Subjectively endured the ability of a person to keep in the center of attention a certain number of diverse objects at the same time.
Switching is the speed of transition just seeing activity to another (absent-mindedness is a bad switching).
Concreteness of attention is connected with the ability to allocate certain complex signals according to an objective, the personal importance, relevance of signals, etc.
The volume of attention is characterized by the number of objects on which the subject in fractions of a second can direct and concentrate attention. A special device called a tachistoscope determines attention volume. In a flash, a person can pay attention only to some objects (from 4 to 6).
Types of attention.
The manifestation of attention is connected both with touch and intellectual processes and also with practical actions and with the purposes and problems of activity. In this regard, allocate the following types of attention:
- Touch
- Intellectual
- Motor
- Deliberate and inadvertent attention.
The touch attention arises when there is the action of objects on sense organs. It provides an accurate reflection of subjects and their properties of feelings and in perceptions of a person. Thanks to touch attention, the images of subjects arising in consciousness are clear and distinct. Touch attention can be visual, acoustical, or olfactory. Generally, in a person, the visual and acoustical attention is shown. Best of all in psychology, the visual attention as it is, is easy to find and study.
The motor attention is directed to the movements and actions made by a person. It gives a more accurate and clear foundation to realize the receptions and ways applied in practical activities. The motor attention regulates and controls the movements and actions directed regarding, especially when they have to be especially accurate and exact.
Intellectual attention is directed on the more effective functioning of such informative processes as memory, imagination, and thinking. Thanks to this attention, people can remember better and reproduce information, create accurate images of imagination clearly and productively. As this attention has an internal character and is little available to research, it is studied in consciousness psychology.
Deliberate (arbitrary) attention arises in the presence of a subject purpose or a task to be attentive to any external subject or internal intellectual action. It is generally directed on the regulation of external touch and motor actions and internal informative processes. The deliberate attention can become arbitrary when the subject needs to show strong-willed effort to direct and concentrate attention on an object which needs to be learned or with which it is necessary to work.
The Consciousness Self Explained.
If the orientation and concentration of attention are connected with the conscious self, it is about any attention. Nikolai Fedorovich Dobrynin allocated one more type of attention – after arbitrary attention (this attention which is naturally accompanying activity of the personality; there is it if the personality is absorbed by activity; it is connected with the present system of associations).
It can take place in the case when purpose shows, the attention remains, but strong-willed efforts disappear. Such attention starts being shown when the activity demanding strong-willed efforts becomes fascinating and is carried out without special difficulties.
If the orientation and concentration have involuntary character, it is about involuntary attention. According to Konstantin Konstantinovich Platonov, one of the forms of involuntary attention is installation (a ready state or predispositions of the personality to definite action).
The inadvertent (involuntary) attention arises by itself without any purpose from a person. It is caused by properties significant to a person, and the quality of subjects and phenomena of the outside world. One such property is the novelty of an object. The involuntary attention is drawn also by all strong irritants such as bright light, loud sound, and pungent smell. Also not noticeable irritants if they correspond to requirements, interests, and installations of one’s personality can sometimes draw attention.
It would be desirable to note that often on the Internet it is possible to see advertisements for various substances and vitamins for improvement of memory and attention. However, it is important to understand that the true reason for carelessness and forgetfulness lies not in the chemical and biological processes of a human’s body but the psychological state and motivation. Therefore, resort to the application of these substances only as a last resort when nothing else helps and only on doctor's orders.
It is necessary to master exercises that will allow you to improve memory and to accelerate muscle work or pushups — not the only thing that is possible and is necessary for the brain.
We visit the gym to be in shape, and we are fixed on diets to keep healthy. How about the mind? Contrary to the opinion of your school games-master, the brain — not a continuous bone. The brain as well as muscles, can grow and change, the main thing — the nobility what to do, and to provide it favorable conditions.
One area of a brain.
The frontal lobe is responsible for planning, logical thinking, and decision-making. And it’s in our interest to increase the efficiency of its work.
The Levels of Consciousness.
The consciousness of self is divided into four levels with each having its distinction based on its criteria. All of us have fallen or are in any one of these states in our lives. They are:
- Unconscious incompetent – a person isn’t aware that he/she doesn’t know about their abilities. We all fall into this level in our lives depending on the situation. It should be a temporary state
- Unconscious competent – a person stumbles towards fame and success without knowing how they got there and how it happened. They are considered as lucky or blessed and disliked by those who’ve struggled for everything
- Conscious incompetent – a person is incapable and knows it. They have no ego and follow blindly. You should be wary with these types of people as they wait for you to mold them into what they would become
- Conscious competent – a person who gets things done and has an idea why it needed to be done. You obtain this state when you control your ego and practice self-analysis
Increasing Your Brains Functionality.
Set one purpose. The ability to solve several tasks at the same time.
A valuable quality in the modern world, but continuous jumping from one business on to another, as a rule, reduce the general efficiency (especially if you constantly jump in an instant). STOP? Accustom your brain to longer periods of concentration.
Build all available affairs in turn and completely concentrate on everyone at least for fifteen minutes. As muscles after training regenerate and become stronger the next day so does the brain. It works more effectively if from time to time it has a rest.
Absorb less information.
We live in conditions of continuous information attack — that there is only one social network. By the way, an overdose of information freezes the ability of the brain to think and make correct decisions. An easy way to unload the random access memory is to ignore part of a task.
The letters that don't have a direct bearing on you and your work, delete them without hesitation. Calls that don't interest you at present, don't take them. In the beginning, such filtration will demand effort, but it will become automatized with time. And your head will considerably clear up.
Learn to remember.
Say aloud a phone number. Noticed how you divide figures into some groups instead of calling them in a row one after another. When your brain faces the list of words or figures, it keeps the first and last parts in memory. Next time, when you will go to the shop, try to remember the list of purchases, but at first, divide it into groups.
For example, six products from the vegetable department, five from grocery, and four from dairy. The first and last points will become more, and it will be easier to remember the entire list.
Unusual kinds of activity first force the brain to slip. However, the more often you beat out it from routine, the quicker it learns to cope with new tasks.
Disconnect the autopilot.
Remember, how many things you did automatically today. Brushed your teeth, made breakfast, reached early to work. It’s the least. Research from Harvard University shows that 47% of the time we are in the autopilot mode. At the same time, to keep the brain in tone, we have to train it new kinds of activity — in the same way as we change loading that muscles work more effectively. From time to time, give the brain new problems like, change a route before work or, for example, comb your hair with your left hand.
Learn foreign languages.
Or at least learn a couple of new phrases while abroad. First, it will be simpler for you to order, for example, favorite drinks in the bar. And secondly, and this is the main thing, according to research conducted in the University College London, during studying of a modern language in the brain processes of recognition of images and a solution that increases the density of gray substance are started. And it influences mental abilities in general — certainly, positively.
From that as far as you are attentive, your success in society depends on you. Help yourself to exercises, games, daily affirmation to feel necessary and happy. Ego always gets the best of us. Should we learn to tame and control our egos, not only are going to live a meaningful and purposeful life but our spiritual wellbeing will be lifted. The practice of self-analysis needs to become a norm, a daily routine.
Image from Marc-Olivier Jodoin
Are you ready to be blown away by pleasure for the ears? If yes, embrace yourself for a comprehensive review of the best wireless earbuds for walking. Not only do they provide quality audio but also unique, user-friendly features and designs.
In our current era especially, time is of the essence. Wireless headphones attribute to that by sustaining activities like walking, running, and exercising. They give us an option for multitasking and saving time. Unlike cable headphones, wireless phones operate by connecting with gadgets through Bluetooth.
When walking with headphones, certain model choices should be considered according to the user's motives. A variety of designs, properties, characteristics, and sizes are available for one's choice.
You aren't stuck in the 1910 era where Nathaniel Baldwin created the first headsets. He created them in his home kitchen with rudimentary tools. Don't let fear stop you from having the best.
When choosing earphones for walking, one should consider these criteria:
- Should have a quality volume with sufficient battery life.
- Should be light and fit well whether in-ear or over-ear
- Should have a great battery life
Here's our in-depth review of the best wireless headphones for walking outdoors.
True HD Wireless Headphones
- 7H playback + 4H with charging case
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Water-resistant
- Affordable
- Passive noise isolation
- Great battery life
- Built-in mic with clear voice capture
- Voice Assistant : Siri, Google Assistant
- All controls are done from the earbuds including volume control
- No multipoint connection capability
- Best for walking and running
Noise Canceling Headphones
- Adaptive Noise cancelation
- HD sound
- NFC
- Voice assistant : Amazon Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant
- 30-hour battery life
- Poor microphone
- Poor sound quality during calls
- Best for entertainment, not communication
- 10H playback
- Audiophile sound
- Light and rugged
- Interchangeable ear tips
- Water and sweat-resistant
- Not great for one-ear listening
- Best for sport, exercise and intense workouts
Wireless Noise-canceling Headphones
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Voice assistant ready -Amazon Alexa built-in, Siri, Google Assistant supported
- On-ear detection
- 8 microphones
- Wind noise cancellation
- 36H battery life Heavy/bulky
- Doesn't support high-end codecs
- Best for places with minimal activity like in the office
- Adaptive noise-cancelation
- Balanced sounds
- 6 months deep sleep
- Dependable connection
- 17 languages voice commands
- Buzzing sound when music isn't playing
- Best for long-distance traveling
- HD sound
- Comfortable fit
- Smart control
- 30H playback
- Voice assistant supported : Amazon Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant
- Poor design
- Expensive
- Best sound
Sony WF-1000XM3 Wireless Earbuds
- Light
- NFC
- Amazon Alexa built-in
- Dynamic noise cancellation
- Camouflaged look
- Not suitable for an active life
- Expensive
- Best for light strolls
Over-ear Wireless Headphones
- Long battery life
- Patented noise cancellation
- Voice assistant support
- Waterproof
- Very light
- Voice assistant support: Amazon Alexa, Siri and Google assistant
- Ultra HD sound
- Only compatible with Android
- No active noise reduction
- Charging case easily destroyed
- Best for walking and outdoor activities
True HD Wireless Headphones
- Dimensions: 1 x 0.5 x 1.6 inches, 0.48 ounces
- Boxed weight: 7.2 ounces
- Battery longevity: 7 hours plus 4 hours with a charging case
- Signal range: 33ft or 10m
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Voice Assistant Support: Siri, Google assistant
Treblab X5 has a unique eye-catching design and a futuristic look that makes heads turn. This is just a small part of the features these earphones possess. They have ultra-high-quality sound and bass that will knock your socks off. Its battery life is superior to other earphones as it can run up to 7 hours on a single charge.
Infused with the latest sound technology, answering your phone will be like talking to a live person. You get a two-hour fast charging time and an uptime of 11 hours. Isn't that great? You'll get to say bye to those long boring journeys.
During our review, we found out that the patented noise cancellation is superb giving you exhilarating listening experience. Do note that they support voice assistant for Siri and Google Assistant.
Pros:
- 7H playback + 4H with charging case
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Water-resistant
- Affordable
- Passive noise isolation
- Great battery life
- Built-in mic with clear voice capture
- Voice Assistant : Siri, Google Assistant
- All controls are done from the earbuds including volume control
Cons:
- No multipoint connection capability
Sony WH-1000XM3
Noise-cancelling Headphones
- Dimensions: 7.3 x 2.9 x 10.4 inches, 9 ounces
- Boxed weight: 1.35 pounds
- Battery longevity: 30 hours
- Signal range: 33ft or 10m
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Voice Assistant Support: Amazon Alexa, Siri, Google assistant
You can now listen to music without distractions of these headphones thanks to its HD noise cancelation processor. Connection wise, it's driven by Bluetooth 5.0 and comes with a rare NFC feature for a headphone.
Graced with smart listening, you're able to automatically control ambient sounds matching whatever activity you're doing. On the voice control side, you have Amazon's Alexa built-in.
Pros:
- Adaptive Noise cancelation
- HD sound
- NFC
- Voice assistant : Amazon Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant
- 30-hour battery life
Cons:
- Poor microphone
- Poor sound quality during calls
Optima NuForce BE Sport 4
- Dimensions: 22.8 x 0.7 x 1.2 inches, 0.48 ounces
- Boxed weight: 8 ounces
- Battery longevity: 10 hours
- Signal range: 33ft or 10m
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1
- Voice Assistant Support: Siri
During our review of the Optima NuForce BE Sport 4, we found out that it's light yet sturdy. Its sweat and waterproof making it an ideal choice for great intense workout sessions. They support AAC and aptX codecs for both iOS and Android devices.
With a quick charge of 15 minutes, you get two hours of playback time. An interesting feature we noted was the interchangeable silicone ear tips and ear wings. From these headphones, you also get audiophile sound.
Pros:
- 10H playback
- Audiophile sound
- Light and rugged
- Interchangeable ear tips
- Water and sweat-resistant
Cons:
- Not great for one-ear listening
Jabra Elite 85H
Noise-canceling Wireless Headphones
- Dimensions: 11.6 x 9.4 x 4.6 inches, 10.4 ounces
- Boxed weight: 1.96 pounds
- Battery longevity: 36 hours
- Signal range: 33ft or 10m
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Voice Assistant Support: Amazon Alexa Built-in, Siri, Google Assistant
Take your sounds wherever with these great wireless headphones for walking. You not only get a minimized piece but a great fit in your ear. A captivating design that fits perfectly in your ear.
Jabra Elite 85H are headphones worth mentioning because of their adaptive noise cancelation. Our review drew us to note 8 mics with four being used for wind noise protection.
Apart from these earphones being unattractive, they have a decent sound system. Furthermore, the outstanding battery life compensates for its bulky appearance.
Pros:
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Voice assistant ready -Amazon Alexa built-in, Siri, Google Assistant supported
- On-ear detection
- 8 microphones
- Wind noise cancellation
- 36H battery life
Cons:
- Heavy/bulky
- Doesn't support high-end codecs
Plantronic BackBeat GO 810
- Dimensions: 8.1 x 2.2 x 1.6 inches, 10.2 ounces
- Boxed weight: 15.2 ounces
- Battery longevity: 24 hours
- Signal range: 33ft or 10m
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Voice Assistant Support: N/A
The name of these headphones sounds futuristic and great. You'll get and a nice-looking headset with adaptive noise cancelation. The sound is perfectly balanced and you have a reliable wireless connection.
The charge time is 2 hours and the battery lasts 36 hours when in use with a charging case. Patented BackBeat app lets you customize music while you're on the go. During the review, it came to our notice the buzzing sound when the headphones aren't operational. This is a let-off really and more should have been done.
Pros:
- Adaptive noise-cancelation
- Balanced sounds
- 6 months deep sleep
- Dependable connection
- 17 languages voice commands
Cons:
- Buzzing sound when music isn't playing
Sennheiser HD 450BT
- Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.6 x 7.6 inches, 1.23 pounds
- Boxed weight: 1.23 pounds
- Battery longevity: 30 hours
- Signal range: 30ft or 9m
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Voice Assistant Support: N/A
When we were its amazing how these notably small earphones can produce such high-quality sound. The bass is rather not at par with other top earphones but their comfortability makes up for that.
Pros:
- HD sound
- Comfortable fit
- Smart control
- 30H playback
- Voice assistant supported
Cons:
- Poor design
- Expensive
BlitzWolf BW FYE5 Hi Fi
Suitable for walking
- Dimensions: 21.5*15.5*13 millimeters
- Battery Longevity: 2.5-3 hours
- Voice Assistance Support: Siri Google
- Single Range: 10 meters/33 feet
Walking around with headphones is going to a tantalizing experience. It's not only comfortable, but it also fits perfectly in your eyes. You wouldn't have to worry about either losing or them dropping off occasionally.
The BlitzWolf models are a beautiful combination of technology and art. They are laced with neon lights and give a slick look to the users. Apart from that, they have a Hi-Fi stereo sound that defines pure quality.
Pros:
- Light
- Comfortable
- Sleek looking with neon lights
Cons:
- No active noise reduction
- Earbuds easily destroyed
Nokia Power Earbuds BH-605
Ideal for both entertainment and communication
- Dimensions: 0.9*0.9*1 inches
- Battery Longevity: Up to 5 hours
- Voice Assistance Support: Siri Google
- Signal Range: 10 meters
Would love your favorite tunes melting your way inside your ear? We know we would. You have your answer with this outstanding device. You have a wide coverage area of 10m with a clear mic for answering your calls while on the go.
It's without question that these are one of the lightest earphones to be made. This automatically gives users comfort. They have a fairly decent playtime and sound quality is above average.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Waterproof
- Very light
Cons:
- Only compatible with Android
- No active noise reduction
- Charging case easily destroyed
Did you know that the speed at which you walk and manner is critical for aging gracefully? Your walking capability is one of the many mortar functions affected by age.
Talking a walk outdoors is great not only for your physical but also for emotional and physical wellbeing. It's even better when you have your favorite content with you. It can be music, a podcast, or even an audiobook.
But, to enjoy your favorite content, you'll need a good set of headphones without a doubt. Price is always the determining factor when getting headphones that you desire. However, it shouldn't be a hindrance in you getting the pleasure that you've been craving while strolling.
Note that, a good headset will not only make listening pleasurable but soothing. Always look at what value it's going to give. Research before deciding because at the end of the day it's your money.
There are earphones without question that have superiority over the majority of earphones in the market. They have distinguished reputations when it comes to looks, sound quality, efficiency, and durability.
Some of the qualities of these fantastic products include pocket-friendly packages, deals, and discounts. They are the best headphones for walking. These 8 headsets that we tested are remarkable.
They are not perfect -as nothing is ever is as they have flaws, but they are minimal and can be overlooked. So, the next time you are looking for your next pair of great headsets, you have already tested options.
FAQs
1. Are there any benefits of listening to music while walking?
Yes, there are many benefits of listening to music while walking. Not only is music soothing, depending on the genre and taste of the listener, it also makes the body function more active. People listening to music while walking portray a more energized form of movement.
2. What are the dangers of listening to music while walking?
Although multitasking saves time and money, it is advisable to try to do one thing at a time. Listening to music may be dangerous. This is because of noise cancellations, which block all the surroundings notifications, and warnings like car honks, cross lights sound, etc.
3. Is it safe to walk with headphones in?
Yes. This solely depends on which types of earphones for walking you've purchased. Various manufacturers have different varieties of earphones with different features that can include noise cancellation, sizes and unique shapes making it safe to walk with headphones in or over your ear.
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On the occasion of the release of his recently published book Nacimiento y muerte del mundo: un viaje de regreso con las palabras proscritas (Independent publication, 2022), we interview its author, Luis M. Moya (Luis Moreno Moya, Barcelona, 1976) to learn more about him and his latest book that we certainly recommend. It is a short, but intense, profoundly original work that moves between philosophy, poetry and that tries to make a very personal analysis of the times we live in. We leave it up to the reader to decide with which other works and authors it would be interesting to make a comparison. As a way of introduction, we are left with the slogan that accompanies the book: 'The best anti bestseller of the 21st century'.
The book ends with twelve questions. Do you really think questions steal our soul?
Yes, but I consider this book to be a safe place.
How can we know if the place of this interview is safe too?
Our soul is constantly at stake. I think it's just about saying it, verbalizing it. Showing respect for language, for its power. Asking is not harmless, at least it shouldn't be. Only then, we can offer each other something of value: war, for example.
The second question on the list is: is it fascist to ask?
[Laughs] In a utopian democracy, it would be.
Dystopian, rather.
In a full democracy, war must be sacred. How is this achieved? Perhaps, through gaming, through special tools that would allow us to act directly and constantly, without prior request and in an orderly manner, on the mechanisms that govern us socially. The confessional state would make sense again. Playing would be the new way of praying. We would have freed the word, fascism would have been transformed and society could be productive again. The Internet, in all its potential, could bring us a little closer to that.
"Unfortunately, artists are people more interested in changing the form of art than that of praying."
Is not the low level of public debate the real problem?
No. It's not so much about questioning the issues we talk about or the approaches we use, but the way our conversations take, their form. We have very assumed the medium, the sender and the receiver. I'm not saying that it's not like that, I'm saying that we are too clear about what's what in each case and that makes us depend a lot on ideas. I think that should be the responsibility of art, I mean, to break that assumption. Unfortunately, artists are people more interested in changing the form of art than that of praying.
You talk about all this in the book.
Somehow I guess so. The impression I have is that this book takes place in a time and space before ideas. A place from where words observe us and can decide for themselves, where they can stop being words. This book does not talk about anything in particular. At least not in the same way as we can do it in this interview. This book is not written to tell us anything, but it is built as a space where words can move and relate to each other as they please. That is what I think allows them to be loaded with meaning and manages to renew our gaze. That relationship between words, which is only possible if a space of freedom and safety is created, is perhaps the most important thing that happens in the book. Democracy is this book.
Does a book like this have a place in the current literature panorama? What has been your experience throughout the publishing process?
It has been quite interesting. There were a couple of small publishers interested in the book, but the idea of self-publishing and the freedom it gives you, made me take my last decission. Having advanced knowledge of programming was also important to me in order to control the entire process and to be able to offer a very professional final product. You can't find the physical book in bookstores, but it is available online e.g. on Amazon. In any case, in the event that a major publisher had offered me its services with the possibility of bigger distribution, my last decision would surely have been the same due to the type of book it is and the author I am.
"My urgency is not to write, it is to defend myself from the revolution and that takes me to a place before the violence of success."
So is the fate of the 'best anti bestseller of the 21st century' to be lost among the thousands of self-published books on Amazon?
Most likely. I find it hard to understand that a book like this, alive, even in its worst sense, can be successful. Especially considering that success is something very organic too. I can feel some incompatibility, but who knows. My urgency is not to write, it is to defend myself from the revolution and that takes me to a place before the violence of success. I'm telling you, if this book were successful I don't really know how I would understand it.
If it is successful it is because something has gone wrong.
I do not know. There's something sick and broken in this need for recognition that we currently have, but, for that very reason, I celebrate those who seek it and display it unapologetically.
However, in the book, the idea of success is quite present, even as something from which we cannot run away.
I mean that we no longer know not to see. That's what I'm trying to say. At another point in the book I also say, 'technology has completely changed ants'. Well, that's it. My only knowledge is about ants. Anyway, I am very much in favor of success because I think that the only thing intrinsically capitalist is history.
"[...] a point has come where in order to agree with what the Catalans want and how they want it, you have to go against them."
Let's talk about the reasons for the book. At some point it is insinuated that you start writing it because of the events of the first october in Catalonia. You are from Barcelona and I guess you should experience them up close.
It's right, but the book is not about that. I am convinced that writing is prior to oneself and, in that sense, the events of the first october were a kind of connection. But, eventually, this book talks about how to devour and not be devoured with the help of fire and words.
There is a chapter, the only one written in Catalan, quite harsh with the Catalans.
It's just that a point has come where, in order to agree with what the Catalans want and how they want it, you have to go against them.
But you are Catalan.
Well, I'm thinking about it. [Laughs] It's pretty hard to quit. If we had our own identity card or passport, it would be easier to resign.
The world seems divided into two fronts, that strains our relations. A certain totalitarianism arises again, sometimes disguised as the opposite. Have you ever felt censored?
I think censorship is always there and dealing with it is part of the creative process. I think it may even be an ally. But I don't think that censorship, in its broadest and least innocent sense, actually prohibits anything, but, on the contrary, encourages you to do and say, but using its own words and facts. In that sense, yes, it seems to me somewhat perverse. I think we just live trapped in language.
In all your books the idea of nature is very present, it is the central axis around which all your thought develops.
So it is. Also, with regards to this, I would like with your permission to take advantage of this interview to launch a message.
Go ahead.
Dear reader, in case you find yourself facing the dilemma of intervening or not in wild nature, altering, modifying or protecting it or not, I only remind you that, whatever you do, it is not possible, I repeat, it is not possible because your dilemma is not a dilemma, it is not even a human thing, but it is also wild nature. For this reason, please, don't just stare but defend without hesitation the poor cricket trapped between the jaws of the group of ants! We are still in time to stop being artists and become humans beings again. Thanks.
"Perhaps, that would be the difference between my first book and the second. The first is closed in on myself and the second talks about you."
There it is! But let me to go now to the beginning. In fact, you start studying Fine Arts, so, how do you become a writer and why do you take so many years to publish again?
I have never had the ambition to become a writer. I have not even had a difficult childhood, nor have books saved me from anything. Actually, I've always believed that culture is an important part of the problem. Maybe that's it. Twenty years ago, I was dedicated to creating my pictorial work. However, fighting against my own visual culture didn't do me much good. Instead, having read almost nothing up to that point, or knowing anything about writing, that led me to start writing. After seven years and thousands of pages, I finished my first book of barely a hundred pages, without a title, without a cover, which I edited and distributed on my own. At that moment, I was left with the feeling that I had already said everything. Now, after twenty years, I publish again in a rather casual way. The explanation is that, surely, writing and saying are not necessarily the same.
However, it seems to me that you're still dealing with this obsession, this idea about to be able to say something and it is still very present in this second book.
Yes it's correct. What I told you before about living trapped by language. It is the idea, shared in both books, of being able to say, but it has to come from the immediate experience rather than reason. For that, I have to go through faith or magic better than using music or beauty. For me, this is a basic nuance. After writing the two books, and based on the fact that both are based on his own process of destruction, it seems to me that saying something is much more complicated than saying everything. Perhaps, because to say something you need a reason, to agree in some way with someone else. Maybe that would be the difference between my first book and the second one. The first is closed on myself and the second talks about you.
"[...] when you are young, the urgency is life, oneself. When older, it is death, the other. My next book will perhaps deal with the third urgency, which may be (re)birth, the rest ."
Is your first book available in bookstores?
As I said before, I didn't even have a title until recently. Now, the work is in process and my first book soon will be available on Amazon and online bookstores as well.
Are you going to take another twenty years to publish your third book?
It is hard to me to write. The first book, it took me about seven years to finish. This second one, about five. And they are short books, barely a hundred pages long. But it seems logical to me that in the 21st century this is the case. I would like to try writing a novel, but I cannot express myself in those terms, in that language, its codes are old and its validity seems strange to me, even a little suspicious. Anyway, I would say that when you are young, the urgency is life, oneself. When grown up, is the death, the other. My next book will perhaps deal with the third urgency, which may be the (re)birth, the rest.
Surely it will be as interesting as it has been to read Nacimiento y muerte del mundo, a book that we recommend enthusiastically to all our readers.
Nacimiento y muerte del mundo: un viaje de regreso con las palabras proscritas by Luis M. Moya
ENGLISH VERSION WILL BE SOON AVAILABLE
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