English Blog

 Sophie Cucco The idea of fast food being the "new tobacco" is often discussed in the context of health risks and the regulation of industries that harm public well-being. Tobacco, once marketed heavily and associated with glamour, is now heavily regulated due to its clear, proven health risks (lung cancer, heart disease, etc.). Fast food, similarly, has been linked to significant health issues like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. The debate hinges on whether the government should intervene more aggressively in regulating unhealthy foods as it did with tobacco. However, many, including Balko, stress that personal choice plays a significant role, suggesting the focus should be on education and awareness rather than restrictions. Balko's piece argues that the government should not infringe on personal freedoms by regulating food choices in the same way it regulates tobacco or alcohol. He believes in the power of personal responsibility and informed choice, and he caut...

Is pop culture good for us? I believe it is... depending on how you engage with it.  Pop culture without a doubt helps create shared experiences between people. Through shows, music, or trends, it helps people bond over common interests. Think even of references from random TikTok videos that show up in day to day conversations. I could say "Brat Summer" and connect with virtually every teenager in this country. Awareness of pop culture can be really powerful. It fosters a sense of belonging in a society that in this day and age, depends on the internet. Pop culture can also provide us a reflection on societal values. Most media we consume has an agenda behind it, whether it's a documentary on a social movement or a more abstract approach to addressing a current topic, through it we gain insight into the world around us. Pop culture acts as a complex and dynamic mirror, reflecting the realities of society while also having the power to influence societal change. It allows...