3103 research outputs found
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Slipping through the Sieve: Memories in the Eyes of a Granddaughter
Full text linkMy grandmother’s life, specifically during times of harvest, sewing, and her journey with cancer, have informed how I live my life and speaks to the division of men and women, specifically within rural religious communities. By looking back through my memories and her diaries, I have developed an understanding of how her sense of self is deeply involved with the domestic sphere and caretaking; in this gendered division, women’s work is undervalued but drives the community and influences how these communities interact with the outside world. In this creative thesis, I engage in the practice of creative nonfiction writing, applying feminist ethics to my grandmother’s lifestyle and journey with cancer. I conclude that, while my grandmother is autonomous in the way that she chooses to serve others and maintains the integrity of her ideals, she has been robbed of her autonomy regarding her end-of-life wishes. Through memoir-style vignettes, I explore the elements of care that she bestowed upon my family, and I conclude that while there are crucial aspects of her lifestyle that I take with me, such as caretaking, service, and community, I encourage all readers to interrogate their matriarchal line and consider how to ensure their self-respect is maintained as they sustain their communities and families
Modern Colonialism: The Case of Costa Rica and the United Fruit Company
Full text linkThis academic paper systematically investigates the intricate historical relationship between the United Fruit Company (UFC) and the socio-economic landscape of Costa Rica during the Liberal period from 1870 to 1940. By examining the direct relationship between the UFC\u27s presence and the simultaneous growth of the tourism industry, coastal land development, and the consequential rise of the sex trade, this research elucidates the adverse impacts of foreign monopolies on the privatization of land. The study underscores the enduring repercussions of this phenomenon in contemporary Costa Rican society. Through historical analysis, this thesis argues that the UFC\u27s actions in Costa Rica during the Liberal period took on a form of modern-day colonialism, impacting the socio-economic dynamics of the nation. By examining less-explored historical narratives, the paper seeks to acknowledge and address the often-neglected histories of exploited indigenous communities and Latin American countries under the influence of the United States. This academic endeavor not only illuminates the less visible aspects of the United States\u27 involvement in Costa Rica but also the influence between the Global North’s corporate interests and local communities. Within the context of Central American history, the ethical considerations of the United States\u27 influence on environmental and human health are key historical themes
A Program to Promote Reusable Sanitary Pads in West Bengal, India: Recommendations for the FLūME Foundation
Full text linkMenstrual Health and Hygiene (“MHH”) is an increasing focus for the development sector because of the potential to improve the lives of women and girls by empowering them to understand and care for their bodies and to overcome the shame and stigma associated with cultural taboos around menstruation that exist all over the world. In West Bengal, India, embarrassment and secrecy surrounding menstruation, which is commonly considered an impurity, means that many menstruators do not understand the biological causes of menstruation, and many do not share information about their experiences managing menstruation and its impact on their daily lives. In addition, managing the waste generated by disposable sanitary pads has become a policy focus in India. This program uses reusable sanitary pads, an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective alternative to the disposable version, as a grassroots entry point to promote community discussion and education about menstruation. Activities to develop a market for affordable reusable sanitary pads are expected to provide opportunities for members of the target communities to learn about menstruation, make informed choices, and improve their economic circumstances by saving money on menstrual materials and earning money from sales activities
A Conservation Model: Costa Rican conservation strategies effectively preserve their threatened primates
Full text linkThe wildlife of Costa Rica has experienced various anthropogenic threats over the last century including climate change and agricultural expansion. The mantled howler monkey (Alloutta palliata), Central American spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi), white-faced capuchin (Cebus imitator), and the Central American squirrel monkey (Saimiri oerstedii) are Costa Rica’s native primates that face several anthropogenic threats such as deforestation for agriculture and climate change. In response to increased threats to its four native species of non-human primates, Costa Rica has implemented effective governmental conservation tactics such as the Payments for Environmental Services program, ecotourism within protected areas, and various laws implemented to protect and preserve these primates and ensure a balanced rainforest ecosystem. Through the analysis of these conservation efforts made by the Costa Rican government and local organizations, this thesis aims to challenge primate conservation tactics in other countries hosting nonhuman primates to reform current regulations and implement new standards to protect their native primate species whose current populations have been recognized as having conservations statuses that range from “vulnerable” to “critically endangered” through the example of Costa Rican tactics and implementations
THE DARK SIDE OF GENETICS: ANALYZING THE PREDISPOSITION TO MURDER
Full text linkViolence is something we’ve all experienced to various degrees. Although murder is less common compared to other violent crimes, it nevertheless remains a devastating issue. It would be foolish to not allocate resources in search of a cure for murder. Modern genetics not only offers an answer, but a solution as well. What if we could identify murderers the day they were born? We have the technology to identify the genes (MAOA and CDH13) associated with murder, as well as the tools to edit them. There have been several movies and shows made regarding this theory, so why haven’t we implemented it? Well, a major flaw remains. Our genes are not the only cause for murderous behavior and therefore cannot be used to predict violent behavior. Our behavior is a result of both environmental and genetic factors (nature and nurture). Additionally, the low activity MAOA variant associated with murder is present in 40% of the population. However, crime statistics state that the number of murderers in the United States is significantly less than 40%. This indicates that MAOA alone does not dictate murderous behavior. It would be both dangerous and ignorant to accept the belief that certain genes are linked to violent behavior
Reading Vs Screening: the Development of Generation Alpha
Full text linkChild development is an important field of research as it allows us to understand what promotes the cognitive, emotional, physical, social, and educational growth that shapes the adults we become. Every generation grows and learns in a new environment that is constantly changing, and it is vital that we determine what factors benefit or deter our development. This is especially true for Generation Alpha, who are uniquely recognized for being true digital natives. Technology has been integrated into nearly all aspects of our society and has had numerous benefits in terms of convenience, social connection, and education. However, overindulgence of certain types of screen-time can negatively affect child brain development. This rise in technology has also impacted the amount of time children spend ludic reading at home during key periods of development. Reading during early childhood is extremely important for healthy development as it promotes language, literacy, intelligence, and social growth. In this thesis I argue the importance of limiting harmful media and promoting more ludic reading during early childhood to benefit the development of Generation Alpha
MS ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY CAPSTONE PROJECT
Full text linkLand-use change (LUC) is a key driver of biodiversity loss, altering the structure and function of ecosystems through human activities such as urbanization and agriculture. This change has led to habitat loss and fragmentation, resulting in the rapid decline of avian populations globally. Wildlife rehabilitation centers are the primary responders for injured birds and their records provide valuable data to monitor potential factors impacting bird populations. However, these datasets are underutilized in research. This study examined how LUC in the Front Range affects the likelihood and circumstances of admission of injured birds to the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance (RMWA) in Sedalia, Colorado. A preliminary spatial analysis was conducted to delineate avian injuries across five habitat sectors, major roadways, and water bodies. Urban areas showed the highest probability of admissions, followed by residential areas. Water bodies and road proximities had no significant effect on the likelihood of circumstance of admission being anthropogenic versus natural. These findings establish a baseline for monitoring how different anthropogenic effects negatively impact avian populations and contribute to conservation efforts in the face of wildlife declines due to LUC
Empowering Women in the Zambian Gemstone Industry A Pathway to Bridge the Gender Gap in Value Addition
Full text linkThe Zambian gemstone industry is a critical sector with vast potential for economic growth. However, women in this industry often face significant barriers to participating in value-adding processes, particularly in cutting and polishing gemstones. This capstone project explores the challenges and opportunities for empowering women in Zambian gemstone value-adding through cutting and polishing.
By conducting a comprehensive literature review and engaging in primary research, this study aims to elucidate the multifaceted obstacles that hinder women\u27s full participation in the cutting and polishing aspects of the gemstone value chain. It also aims to highlight the socio-cultural and economic factors that contribute to women\u27s underrepresentation in this sector.
Furthermore, the project aims to identify best practices, successful interventions, and empowerment initiatives from other regions or industries that have effectively promoted gender inclusion in value-addition processes. Drawing from these insights, the capstone endeavors to develop targeted recommendations and strategies to empower women in the Zambian gemstone industry, particularly in cutting and polishing.
Through this research, the capstone seeks to contribute to the discourse on gender equality and women\u27s economic empowerment. The project aspires to create new economic opportunities for women and catalyze broader socio-economic development within the Zambian gemstone industry by fostering an environment that enables and supports women in gemstone cutting and polishing
Empowering Kokal: A Decolonized, Community-Led Development Model in Homa Bay County, Kenya
Full text linkIn Homa Bay County, Kenya, a community-led development initiative called the Power Centre is transforming the fight against poverty and powerlessness. Grounded in principles of decolonization and participatory action, this project addresses the root causes of marginalization by empowering residents of Kokal Village to become active agents of change. Through a robust mixed-methods research approach, the project identifies systemic challenges and leverages existing social networks to build a sustainable, locally-owned model for development. The Power Centre implements a three-pronged strategy, focusing on increasing community participation, strengthening existing groups, and fostering collaborative networks to weave a robust support system. By addressing immediate needs, investing in capacity building, and promoting social enterprise, this project aims to create a thriving local economy and resilient community that can overcome historical inequalities and shape its own future. This case study provides valuable insights into the potential of community-led, decolonized development approaches to achieve lasting social and economic transformation in rural Kenya and beyond
THE EFFECTS AND SUCCESS RATES OF DIFFERENT CONSERVATION EFFORTS ON THE VIABILITY OF ELEPHANT AND RHINOCEROS POPULATIONS ON THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
Full text linkOver the past few centuries, there has been a serious decline in elephant and rhinoceros’ populations on the African continent. No matter the species, the drop in habitat range and population size has been drastic. This decline has ultimately been caused by the increase in the human population. Whether it be habitat fragmentation, habitat loss, or poaching, humans have had a direct impact on the forest and savanna elephant, and the black and white rhinoceros. While the relationship between these animals and the human population started as one founded in respect and reverence, the human need for land and resources has turned elephants and rhinoceroses into pests and problems. Many current conservation techniques for these species do not take this complex relationship into account. Modern conservation tactics focus strictly on the wellbeing of the animal and do not encourage comradery between the African human populations that interact with these animals daily. Moving forward, it is vital for the success of conservation that these tactics encourage support and involvement of the African communities in elephant and rhinoceros range areas. In non-elephant and rhinoceros range countries, education, funding, and government policy should be used to uplift and inspire the proper conservation tactics involving the African communities in the elephant and rhinoceros range areas