Category · 43 questions
Health
Public health versus personal freedom. Mental health, nutrition, pandemics.
In this section
43 entriesCan Covid immunity passports unlock travel?
Antibody tests can tell you with a high degree of certainty whether or not you have had the Coronavirus. Given that the antibodies make you 'immune' for some time, should those people be allowed to travel as before?
Do childhood experiences determine our adult personalities?
Do our experiences shape who we are? Are the memories we keep from these experiences more important than the experiences themselves? Many scholars believe our experiences do shape who we are and that memories of those experiences are equally as important. Some scholars, however, believe that there is a core identity each individual has that is unchanging and the very root of one’s existence.
Does homeopathy work?
Homeopathy is a commonly practiced, pseudoscientific form of medicine used since the late 18th Century. Many medical professionals, spiritual guides, and an assortment of other people on both sides of the debate have weighed in on the issue of whether homeopathy is actually effective in positively influencing the health of those who adhere to it.
Does the mainstream vegan movement have a race problem?
In influencer circles advocating for a vegan lifestyle, some have suggested the group is not representative of the larger world. And beyond that may even be racist. Is this the case? Or is vegan advocacy a safe space for all?
How can we stay mentally healthy in quarantine?
Healthy mind, healthy body. Mental fitness is just as important as physical wellbeing. We can't deny life can sometimes feel bleak without real life interaction. But introducing new habits can lighten those perspectives, and offer moments of calm when life seems anything but.
How do drugs affect the brain?
A psychoactive drug is a chemical substance which, when consumed, can affect the brain and nervous system, resulting in an altered mental state. The potent effects of psychoactive drugs have led some to be used as prescription medicines, while others have become some of the most widely prohibited illicit substances in the world. So what are the effects of drugs on the brain? What are the different types of psychoactive drug, and how do these various chemicals affect behaviour, consciousness, mood, perception, and the functioning of the brain?
How does social media affect mental health?
The relationship between social media and mental health is complex, as social media takes over more and more of our lives. Many people instantly assume social media has a negative effect on mental health, but can there be positive effects too?
How is the coronavirus pandemic affecting global warming?
COVID-19 has changed the way we work, live, travel and engage with the world. The quarantine measures imposed by many countries in its wake have kept many of us locked indoors. The environment too has been radically impacted as air pollution reduces, CO2 emissions tumble, and animals return to cities. Will the pandemic have long-term impact on the environment and global warming?
How much of your body is actually you?
How much of your body is genuinely 'you' rather than microbes? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that more than half of your body is not human, and that more than half of it is.
Is ADHD real?
Scientific evidence has supported the existence of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder for decades, yet critics often question if it’s a valid condition. There is no doubt that the symptoms associated with ADHD are real, and though science has proven ADHD to be a real brain-based disorder, many still deny it’s existence. The debate continues; Is ADHD a real medical condition? Is it over-diagnosed? Is it under-diagnosed? Or is ADHD merely an excuse for disruptive behavior?
Is alternative medicine effective?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products for diagnosis, treatment and/or prevention which are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Complementary means to improve the effect of something and suggests a treatment that complements mainstream, orthodox treatment, whilst alternative means instead of. However, the terms are often used interchangeably.
Is barefoot running really better for you?
Barefoot running is a trend with a lot of momentum behind it. The idea that we have evolved to run barefoot, and that returning to this natural state can have benefits for running. Research has been done on both sides, with lots of strong adherents... so where to we stand today?
Is Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME) a real illness?
Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME) a genuine physical illness or something else? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that CFS/ME is a real illness, and that it is not — and the reasoning behind each.
Is drinking alcohol healthy?
Alcoholic beverages are widely consumed across the globe in a multitude of settings. Many people enjoy and promote alcohol use, while many others point out its potential negative impacts. Is alcohol consumption healthy?
Is herd immunity the best way to beat coronavirus?
Herd immunity strategy has come under scrutiny. Herd immunity assumes a large section of the population will be infected. Rather than enforce lockdown measures, herd immunity encourages social distancing in public places. The aim is to have as many low-risk people infected as possible. Immune people cannot infect others. Therefore, the more there are, the faster we kill its exponential growth, and the easier it will be to treat the vulnerable. The WHO has criticised the approach, as have many others. Is the Swedish government correct?
Is it good to do yoga during your period?
It is said that during menstruation days is recommended to stop doing yoga, especially inversions. However, others argue that doing yoga on one's period can soothe period pain and even help to regulate periods. Can you continue to practice yoga during your period? Or is it detrimental to your health?
Is it time we learned to live with Coronavirus?
With no end in sight, Coronavirus is running rampant all over the world and killing around 150,000 people a day. With the entirety of 2020 dominated by the virus, many people are starting to wonder: Is it time we learned to live with Coronavirus?
Is sleeping during the night important for health?
Some people prefer to work at night, and they call themselves night owls. Early birds are the people sleep at night and wake up early. Many CEOs and business tycoons propagate the virtues of sleeping at night and waking up early. On the other hand, there are top creatives who prefer working at night. But which one of these promotes healthy habits and good mental and physical health?
Is spending time quarantined bad for your mental health?
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has left people who have come into contact with the virus self-isolating to avoid infecting others. As the world's population goes into quarantine, does spending time quarantined lead to negative mental health outcomes?
Is the wellness industry racist?
The wellness industry has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in light of the health effects (both mental and physical) surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. Numerous critiques have suggested that the industry as a whole is not inclusive, and fails to acknowledge specific cultures and practices. Is the wellness industry racist?
Should birth control be for sale over the counter?
Contraceptives such as condoms, spermicides, and the “morning after pill” are all readily available over the counter at any pharmacy. Many question if birth control pills should be one of them. Aside from preventing pregnancy, many women take birth control for other health reasons, such as balancing hormones and regulating menstrual cycles. Should birth control be easily accessible? Or is selling birth control over the counter dangerous and irresponsible?
Should birth control be free?
Birth control has many positive impacts, including pregnancy prevention, protection from STDs, and allowing regulation of the menstrual cycle. However, these products can cost large amounts of money, the onus of payment for which is generally on women. Should these products be free, or should they cost money?
Should cosmetic surgey be covered by health insurance?
Should health insurance pay for cosmetic surgery? This entry maps the positions on the question — that cosmetic surgery should be covered, that it should not, and that it depends on the case, such as reconstructive need.
Should junk food be banned for children?
In a day and age where junk food is everywhere, more people are adopting unhealthy diets, resulting in health problems and weight gain. Many experts agree that a healthy lifestyle starts while we're young, so the question arises: Should junk food be banned for children?
Should masks be worn by the public to stop the coronavirus?
Wearing masks has become a contentious issue in the United States at the height of the coronavirus pandemic. From concerns of personal freedom, to skepticism over their effectiveness, to worries of government control. The mask seem to prove effective in other cultures. All of this leaves us with the question... should masks be worn by the public to stop the coronavirus?
Should medical marijuana be legal?
Medical marijuana has been a highly debated topic throughout the United States as more and more Americans are legally accessing the drug. As new states have legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes, some have criticized these decisions. Many imply that the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes is merely a “back door” method of legalizing the drug for recreational use.
Should obesity be treated as a disease?
Obesity affects more than 1/3 of America and is the leading cause of heart problems and heart-related deaths. In today's day and age, it is often normalized and praised. But should it be considered a disease?
Should there be advertisements for prescription drugs?
Prescription drug adverts are everywhere; from our television screens to celebrity promotions, the brand names of everything from anti-depressants to IBS medications have now become generic. Is this to the benefit of the consumer or to the pharmaceutical industry?
Should you go vegan?
Should you adopt a vegan diet? This entry maps the debate over going vegan, setting out the opposing positions that eating animal products is ethical, and that it is unethical — weighing health, environment and animal welfare.
What are the pros and cons of social medias impact on mental health during the coronavirus pandemic?
The coronavirus pandemic has led to significant lifestyle changes and isolation measures across the world. Social media has provided a platform for people to stay connected, communicate with friends and family, and engage with the news and current affairs. However, there is a lot of research and concern for the role of social media in the increasing mental health rates, particularly amongst teenagers. Also, the coronavirus ‘news fatigue’ which has led to many disengaging from social media during the pandemic. So, what are the pros and cons of social medias role in the pandemic regarding mental health?
What are the pros and cons of vaping?
The inhalation of vapor via an electronic cigarette is known as vaping. It is advertised as an alternative for cigarette smokers by delivering nicotine without tobacco. Health concerns from vaping are mostly uncertain, but according to reports by health experts, vaping can affect lungs, memory, and in some cases, result in death.
What are the pros and cons of vegetarianism?
Vegetarianism has been adopted by different people and cultures since the beginning of human history. However, up until recently, vegetarianism has primarily been a lifestyle resulting from religion or distaste towards meat. With the rise of interest in a vegetarian lifestyle, what are the pros and cons of vegetarianism?
What is the best diet for weight loss?
There now exists hundreds of different wisdoms on what the best and most effective way to lose weight is. All have different philosophies and different benefits, real or alleged. But which has the most evidence behind it? And which, in reality, is the most effective way to lose weight?
What is the best way to stay fit during COVID-19?
Being mandated to stay inside for extended periods mean that opportunities to keep fit during the COVID-19 epidemic are limited. As we suffer from greatly reduced access to activity and move to a largely sedentary lifestyle, how can we make sure we stay fit?
What is the best way to stay healthy during quarantine at home?
With everyone stuck at home, there's a variety of health concerns to be worried about, whether physical or mental. It's difficult to figure out the best way to stay healthy during this time, as it's a first for most. Internet sources recommend a wide variety of things. With so much out there, what is the best way to stay healthy when you're stuck inside?
What is the key to running fast?
What is the key to running faster? This entry gathers the contending answers — interval training, varying your pace, jump-roping, lighter shoes, and good running form — each argued to be the decisive factor.
What lasting impact will COVID-19 have on the U.S. healthcare industry?
The healthcare industry has remained relatively the same even in the face of digital transformation and wider societal change. For example, most doctors still use pagers which were first invented in 1928! However, during COVID-19, the entire healthcare system was put to the test. In many parts of the country, essential equipment such as ventilators and N95 masks were running low. Doctors and nurses were working overtime but they were denied hazard pay. Many challenges during this time revealed intricate flaws within the system. There is bound to be massive reform in the industry following the pandemic.
When will coronavirus end?
It is July 28th, 2020. With lockdowns easing all over the world, some say a second wave of coronavirus will come into force by the end of the year. Others that the pandemic will fade. Is this true? How long before we get rid of the coronavirus?
Why are there so many coronavirus cases in the US?
The US now has more COVID-19 cases than any other country in the world. But why? The virus has taken hold at an alarming speed, outpacing other nations and leading to questions over its healthcare system, economy, capacity for state intervention and policy priorities. Is its spread symptomatic of other weaknesses?
Why does India have so many Covid-19 deaths?
Why did India suffer so heavily during the Covid-19 pandemic? This entry maps the explanations — reopening too soon, dense population, insufficient testing, a herd-immunity approach, and widespread denialism and conspiracy theories.
Why is healthcare in the US so expensive?
Healthcare in America seems to be a lot more expensive than the rest of the world. From research and development for pharmaceutical drugs, to diagnostic tests, to doctors' salaries, everything in America has a higher price tag. In fact, in 2016, 17.8% of the country's GDP was spent on healthcare. Meanwhile, countries such as France, Sweden, Canada, Australia, and many others only spent around 11.5% of their GDP on healthcare-related reasons. Is the higher price of healthcare in America justifiable? What factors are driving the costs of healthcare and making it so expensive?
Will a COVID-19 vaccine save us from a permanent new normal?
The Pfizer announcement has renewed hope that the new normal will soon be lifted. Meanwhile, Oxford University says its own vaccine might be ready before the end of the year. What will this mean for 2021? Can we go back to our lives before the pandemic, or are masks and social distancing here to stay?
Will the public trust a Covid-19 vaccine?
Vaccines have generally been proven safe over decades of use, however doubts persist among some groups. With unprecedented speed of development and importance to world health how will the public respond to the current Covid-19 vaccine?