The term Knowledge Society refers to any society that believes that knowledge is more powerful and important than money.
SOURCE: http://www.thenational.com.pg/?q=node/1252
A knowledge society is one which places an explicit and principal value on knowledge as means to achieve economic and social well being.
SOURCE:http://www. Eclac.cl/socinto/noticias/noticias/6/26546/ictpol06/pdf
Knowledge society refers to any society where knowledge is the primary production resource instead of capital and labour.
SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
ASHAIMAN POLYCLINIC RECORDS HIGH RATE OF MALNUTRITION
The health promotion officer and health educationist at the Ashaiman poly clinic Mrs. Martha Lamptey has disclosed the alarming situation of malnutrition in the Ashaiman community.
According to her, cases recorded for malnutrition especially among children is threatening. She hinted that one thousand one hundred ad ninety five (1,195) under zero to eleven (0-11) months, two hundred and seventy seven (277) under twelve to twenty three (12-23) months and thirty six (36) under twenty for to fifty nine (24-59) months children have been recorded just within half of the year for malnutrition with one hundred and seventy five (175) cases for severe malnutrition.
Mrs. Lamptey disclosed this in an exclusive interview with Sena news.
Mrs. Lamptey however intimated that malnutrition is the mis-distribution of nutrients in the body, adding that, it is not only under nutrition but also over nutrition (obesity). Outlining the causes of this alarming situation to Sena news, she noted that inadequate knowledge about food, poverty, poor personal hygiene and traditional beliefs and taboos are contributing factors to the problem.
She has therefore called on the Mills administration to come to the aid of Ashaiman Community and organize health programme to advice parents especially mothers to pay attention to the well being of their wards.
Report by: Regina Asamoah.
According to her, cases recorded for malnutrition especially among children is threatening. She hinted that one thousand one hundred ad ninety five (1,195) under zero to eleven (0-11) months, two hundred and seventy seven (277) under twelve to twenty three (12-23) months and thirty six (36) under twenty for to fifty nine (24-59) months children have been recorded just within half of the year for malnutrition with one hundred and seventy five (175) cases for severe malnutrition.
Mrs. Lamptey disclosed this in an exclusive interview with Sena news.
Mrs. Lamptey however intimated that malnutrition is the mis-distribution of nutrients in the body, adding that, it is not only under nutrition but also over nutrition (obesity). Outlining the causes of this alarming situation to Sena news, she noted that inadequate knowledge about food, poverty, poor personal hygiene and traditional beliefs and taboos are contributing factors to the problem.
She has therefore called on the Mills administration to come to the aid of Ashaiman Community and organize health programme to advice parents especially mothers to pay attention to the well being of their wards.
Report by: Regina Asamoah.
RESEARCH REVEALS GENERALLY LOW REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN DECISION MAKING IN ASHAIMAN MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY.
A survey reveals generally low representation of women Ashaiman Municipal Assembly (ASHMA), disconnection between citizens and sub- structures, great degree of mistrust, suspicion and very little co-operation between the assemblies and citizens in the Ashaiman Municipality.
These key findings were brought to the fore front at the Baseline Validation Workshop, in Ashaiman. The workshop was intended to ascertain the present levels of citizen’s engagement in local development planning processes and explore available mechanisms that could enhance citizen’s participation in the municipality.
Speaking at the workshop, the Senior Research Officer of the Institute for Democratic Governance –IDEG, Peter Fiamor , intimated that out of sixteen (16) member Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, only four (4) are women, representing twenty five percent (25%). He added that, with the low level of representation of women in the assembly, the power of the government to appoint representatives to the assemblies remains the most viable leverage in increasing the representation of women in ASHMA.
Mr. Fiamor also hinted that the seven zonal councils in the newly created ASHMA are yet to begin operation, hence the assurance of greater voice to citizens in the development and governance of their communities.
He however traced the mistrust, suspicion and minimal cooperation to lack of communication between citizens and the assemblies in the administration of the districts.
Mr. Fiamor has therefore recommended the need for effective increase in advocacy for the appointment of women and people with disability into the local government structures or other forms of affirmative action to ensure fair effective representation and the need for confidence building in short term which must be initiated by providing a platform to discuss the broad range of issues.
…………………………………………END…………………..
Filed by: Regina Asamaoh
These key findings were brought to the fore front at the Baseline Validation Workshop, in Ashaiman. The workshop was intended to ascertain the present levels of citizen’s engagement in local development planning processes and explore available mechanisms that could enhance citizen’s participation in the municipality.
Speaking at the workshop, the Senior Research Officer of the Institute for Democratic Governance –IDEG, Peter Fiamor , intimated that out of sixteen (16) member Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, only four (4) are women, representing twenty five percent (25%). He added that, with the low level of representation of women in the assembly, the power of the government to appoint representatives to the assemblies remains the most viable leverage in increasing the representation of women in ASHMA.
Mr. Fiamor also hinted that the seven zonal councils in the newly created ASHMA are yet to begin operation, hence the assurance of greater voice to citizens in the development and governance of their communities.
He however traced the mistrust, suspicion and minimal cooperation to lack of communication between citizens and the assemblies in the administration of the districts.
Mr. Fiamor has therefore recommended the need for effective increase in advocacy for the appointment of women and people with disability into the local government structures or other forms of affirmative action to ensure fair effective representation and the need for confidence building in short term which must be initiated by providing a platform to discuss the broad range of issues.
…………………………………………END…………………..
Filed by: Regina Asamaoh
PRE-MARITAL SEX- IS IT NECESSARY?
Pre- marital sex is generally defined as “sex before marriage”. Sex is an activity performed by a male and female or sometimes persons of the same sex. It happens between a male and female in order to create babies or between same sex for pleasure.(But be mindful that Christianity abhors same sex- this is sex between female and another female which is refer to as lesbianism or between a male and another male which is refer to as sodomy or gay ). Even though sex is a physical act, it is as much a spiritual mystery.
God Almighty created sex as part of his divine institution- marriage. Modernity is however, gradually violating this commandment and has made pre-marital sex seems to be a necessity; based on the scientific aspect of sexual compatibility.
Apart from pre-marital sex being a sin in the sight of God, it has spiritual, physical, emotional or mental and social consequences.
God’s Word stresses on the purpose of our physical bodies and consequences of defiling them; “do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you received from God? You are not of your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honour God with your body”- 1 Corinthians 6:19&20.
1 Corinthians 6:18, also tells us to “flee from sexual immorality”. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body”.
Pre-marital sex can create a spiritual doorway for the entry of demons into one’s spirit and life. Demons bring about spiritual marriage, which reflects in physical life through relationship problems, marriage divorces, infertility and sometime giving birth to deviant children - one feels very impure and dirty inside- out. The eternal consequence of pre marital sex is that; “nothing impure will enter into HEAVEN, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful” revelation 21:27
Physically, one stands the chance of being infected with HIV/AIDS, SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AND HYPERTITIS B.
Pre marital sex may bring about teenage pregnancy and possible death if termination of pregnancy is attempted.
Permit me to add that, under the laws of Ghana there are some aspects of sex that are not acceptable and can be termed as criminal offence. (Criminal code 1960, Act 29), some of these are RAPE, DEFILEMENT, CARNAL KNOWLEDGE, and INDECENT ASSAULT (Sexual harassment) INCEST.
RAPE:
Having sex with a girl or woman who is 16 years and above without her consent. If one is found guilty of the above, the punishment is a minimum sentence of five years imprisonment and maximum sentence of twenty-five years imprisonment.
DEFILEMENT:
This is defined as the natural (normal way of having sex,) carnal knowledge of a child under sixteen years or unnatural sex through the anus, oral sex, inserting objects in private parts, etc.
If found guilty of the offence, one faces a minimum imprisonment of seven years and a maximum of twenty five years.
CARNAL KNOWLEDGE:
It is an offence for anyone to have natural or unnatural sex with an idiot, imbecile or mental patient in or under the care of a mental hospital with or without her consent. If it is proved that the accused person knew at the time he was having sex with the mental patient that she was an imbecile idiot or mental patient, he would be charged for the offence punishable by a minimum of five years and a maximum of twenty-five years imprisonment.
INDECENT ASSAULT:
It is the making of any sexual bodily contact with another person or sexually violating the body of another person, example: touching, fondling, etc. this offence is punishable with a minimum offence of six months imprisonment.
INCEST:
This is when a male of sixteen years and above have sex with granddaughter, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother. It is punishable by a minimum of three years and a maximum o twenty-five years imprisonment.
CONCLUSION
My fellow young people, why don’t you save yourselves the troubles of arguments and misunderstandings involved in denial of ownership of pregnancies? Why don’t you spare yourselves from being social outcasts, black ships and object of ridicule? Abortion is illegal; it is murder in the sight of God as well.
Furthermore, one undergoes stress; guilt lingers on your mind until you confess your sins to God. Your conscience never frees you and your sexual misbehavior wars against your very soul, you will have no peace.
In some instances, those involved get married; however apart from the spiritual and physical consequences there is gross mistrust between spouses. Those who do not end up marrying each other feel used, cheapened and cheated. They are never able to forgive themselves, or regain their self-esteem and pride and often lose concentration, focus and opportunities in life.
Abstinence is the best. One enjoys being single or have a better marriage when he or she abstains from pre-marital sex, spare yourselves all these consequences.
Stay Holy, stay pure, enjoy life before and during marriage to the fullest.
Thank you and God bless you.
Presentation by: Mrs. Mercy S.A Amponsah- Kwatia.
God Almighty created sex as part of his divine institution- marriage. Modernity is however, gradually violating this commandment and has made pre-marital sex seems to be a necessity; based on the scientific aspect of sexual compatibility.
Apart from pre-marital sex being a sin in the sight of God, it has spiritual, physical, emotional or mental and social consequences.
God’s Word stresses on the purpose of our physical bodies and consequences of defiling them; “do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you received from God? You are not of your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honour God with your body”- 1 Corinthians 6:19&20.
1 Corinthians 6:18, also tells us to “flee from sexual immorality”. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body”.
Pre-marital sex can create a spiritual doorway for the entry of demons into one’s spirit and life. Demons bring about spiritual marriage, which reflects in physical life through relationship problems, marriage divorces, infertility and sometime giving birth to deviant children - one feels very impure and dirty inside- out. The eternal consequence of pre marital sex is that; “nothing impure will enter into HEAVEN, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful” revelation 21:27
Physically, one stands the chance of being infected with HIV/AIDS, SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AND HYPERTITIS B.
Pre marital sex may bring about teenage pregnancy and possible death if termination of pregnancy is attempted.
Permit me to add that, under the laws of Ghana there are some aspects of sex that are not acceptable and can be termed as criminal offence. (Criminal code 1960, Act 29), some of these are RAPE, DEFILEMENT, CARNAL KNOWLEDGE, and INDECENT ASSAULT (Sexual harassment) INCEST.
RAPE:
Having sex with a girl or woman who is 16 years and above without her consent. If one is found guilty of the above, the punishment is a minimum sentence of five years imprisonment and maximum sentence of twenty-five years imprisonment.
DEFILEMENT:
This is defined as the natural (normal way of having sex,) carnal knowledge of a child under sixteen years or unnatural sex through the anus, oral sex, inserting objects in private parts, etc.
If found guilty of the offence, one faces a minimum imprisonment of seven years and a maximum of twenty five years.
CARNAL KNOWLEDGE:
It is an offence for anyone to have natural or unnatural sex with an idiot, imbecile or mental patient in or under the care of a mental hospital with or without her consent. If it is proved that the accused person knew at the time he was having sex with the mental patient that she was an imbecile idiot or mental patient, he would be charged for the offence punishable by a minimum of five years and a maximum of twenty-five years imprisonment.
INDECENT ASSAULT:
It is the making of any sexual bodily contact with another person or sexually violating the body of another person, example: touching, fondling, etc. this offence is punishable with a minimum offence of six months imprisonment.
INCEST:
This is when a male of sixteen years and above have sex with granddaughter, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother. It is punishable by a minimum of three years and a maximum o twenty-five years imprisonment.
CONCLUSION
My fellow young people, why don’t you save yourselves the troubles of arguments and misunderstandings involved in denial of ownership of pregnancies? Why don’t you spare yourselves from being social outcasts, black ships and object of ridicule? Abortion is illegal; it is murder in the sight of God as well.
Furthermore, one undergoes stress; guilt lingers on your mind until you confess your sins to God. Your conscience never frees you and your sexual misbehavior wars against your very soul, you will have no peace.
In some instances, those involved get married; however apart from the spiritual and physical consequences there is gross mistrust between spouses. Those who do not end up marrying each other feel used, cheapened and cheated. They are never able to forgive themselves, or regain their self-esteem and pride and often lose concentration, focus and opportunities in life.
Abstinence is the best. One enjoys being single or have a better marriage when he or she abstains from pre-marital sex, spare yourselves all these consequences.
Stay Holy, stay pure, enjoy life before and during marriage to the fullest.
Thank you and God bless you.
Presentation by: Mrs. Mercy S.A Amponsah- Kwatia.
DEBATE - MOTION: THE ADULT EXHIBIT MORE MATURITY THAN THE YOUNG
POSITION: FOR THE MOTION
Mr. Chairman, Panel of Judges, Co- Debaters, Accurate Time Keeper, Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to today’s debate. I stand for the motion that the adults exhibit more maturity than the young.
Mr. Chairman, psychologically maturity is a term used to indicate how a person responds to the circumstances or environment in an appropriate and adaptive manner. It also encompasses being aware of the correct time and place to behave, knowing when to act in a serious or non – serious ways. It could also be defined as a personal character or how one in a stressful or difficult situation behaves because then a person’s true ability to react to a situation can be seen.
Panel of judges, ladies and gentlemen if maturity is in this perspective, why should my fellow co- debaters refute the assertion that the adult exhibit more maturity than the young. In our African culture there is and adage that the more you grow the wiser you become.
Furthermore, a psychologist B.W Roberts emphasize on this adage in an explicit personality model. According to her one’s personality must be viewed form both the perspective of the actor and the observer. By this, it is important that an individual gains a certain level of maturity as he grows older.
Mr. chairman, it is an undeniable fact that some young people exhibit maturity to some extent likewise some adults do not exhibit maturity as expected of them. It is true, but percentage wise I strongly assert that the adult exhibit more maturity than the young.
Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen, I would like my opponents and all of you gathered here to note that even the 1992 constitution of the Republic of Ghana, chapter 8 article 62 clearly states that, unless one is 40 years and above he or she cannot stand for the presidency. So, if the young exhibit maturity more than the adult why is it that the young are not is allowed to contest for that enviable position. This hints that maturity in some way goes with age. It would also interest you to know that in Islam before one is regarded as matured unless the person is forty years and above.
Mr. Chairman, a young person cannot always boast of maturity in every social situation but an adult is likely to do so. It is certain that David (in the bible) the youngest son among his brothers was appointed to rule the people of Israel but I beg to differ if my opponent would cite that as an instant of maturity since Abraham was also called in his old age.
Let’s all analyze this circumstance – when a girlfriend of a young man calls to tell him that she is pregnant – picture his reaction as compared to an adult who faces the same situation.
Mr. chairman , panel of judges, co-debaters accurate time keeper, ladies and gentlemen with the above detailed information I call on you to join me and strongly assert that the adults exhibit more maturity than the young.
Thank you.
Mr. Chairman, Panel of Judges, Co- Debaters, Accurate Time Keeper, Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to today’s debate. I stand for the motion that the adults exhibit more maturity than the young.
Mr. Chairman, psychologically maturity is a term used to indicate how a person responds to the circumstances or environment in an appropriate and adaptive manner. It also encompasses being aware of the correct time and place to behave, knowing when to act in a serious or non – serious ways. It could also be defined as a personal character or how one in a stressful or difficult situation behaves because then a person’s true ability to react to a situation can be seen.
Panel of judges, ladies and gentlemen if maturity is in this perspective, why should my fellow co- debaters refute the assertion that the adult exhibit more maturity than the young. In our African culture there is and adage that the more you grow the wiser you become.
Furthermore, a psychologist B.W Roberts emphasize on this adage in an explicit personality model. According to her one’s personality must be viewed form both the perspective of the actor and the observer. By this, it is important that an individual gains a certain level of maturity as he grows older.
Mr. chairman, it is an undeniable fact that some young people exhibit maturity to some extent likewise some adults do not exhibit maturity as expected of them. It is true, but percentage wise I strongly assert that the adult exhibit more maturity than the young.
Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen, I would like my opponents and all of you gathered here to note that even the 1992 constitution of the Republic of Ghana, chapter 8 article 62 clearly states that, unless one is 40 years and above he or she cannot stand for the presidency. So, if the young exhibit maturity more than the adult why is it that the young are not is allowed to contest for that enviable position. This hints that maturity in some way goes with age. It would also interest you to know that in Islam before one is regarded as matured unless the person is forty years and above.
Mr. Chairman, a young person cannot always boast of maturity in every social situation but an adult is likely to do so. It is certain that David (in the bible) the youngest son among his brothers was appointed to rule the people of Israel but I beg to differ if my opponent would cite that as an instant of maturity since Abraham was also called in his old age.
Let’s all analyze this circumstance – when a girlfriend of a young man calls to tell him that she is pregnant – picture his reaction as compared to an adult who faces the same situation.
Mr. chairman , panel of judges, co-debaters accurate time keeper, ladies and gentlemen with the above detailed information I call on you to join me and strongly assert that the adults exhibit more maturity than the young.
Thank you.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
INFORMATION SOCIETY
Information Society constitute the beginning of a truly professionalized and caring society,while to others it represent a tightening of control over the citizenry; to some it heralds the emergence of a highly educated public which has ready access to knowledge.
SOURCE: Theories of the information society by FRANK WEBSTER
A society that brings about a general flourishing state of human intellectual creativity instead of affluent material consumption.
SOURCE: The information society as post industrial society by YONEJI MUSADA
A society in which the creation, distribution, diffusion, use, integration and manipulation of information is a significant economic, political, and cultural activity.
SOURCE:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_society
SOURCE: Theories of the information society by FRANK WEBSTER
A society that brings about a general flourishing state of human intellectual creativity instead of affluent material consumption.
SOURCE: The information society as post industrial society by YONEJI MUSADA
A society in which the creation, distribution, diffusion, use, integration and manipulation of information is a significant economic, political, and cultural activity.
SOURCE:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_society
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
MENTAL ILLNESS MOVES BEYOND MADNESS
If you ever thought that people in the psychiatric hospital and those walking around naked or in rugs are the only mentally ill persons, then reconsider your thoughts. Every Ghanaian suffers at least one form of mental illness.
Psychologists have identified various kinds of mental illness that affect every individual at a point in time. These include anxiety, mood, eating, impulse control and addiction disorders. Others are sexual and gender, personality and dissociative disorders.
One of the very common mental illnesses is mood disorders. These disorders involve persistent feelings of sadness or feeling overly happy or fluctuations from extreme sadness to extreme happiness and vice versa. Research has shown that depression, maniac and bipolar disorders are the very common mood disorders affecting many people.
In spite of the many less serious effects that some forms of mental illness offer to patients, depressive disorder becomes an exception. A depressive disorder is more than a passing mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness and it cannot be willed or wished away. It involves the body, mood and thoughts. People who are depressed cannot “snap out of it” and simply get better. Without treatment, symptoms can last for months or even years.
Symptoms related to depression are persistent sadness, anxiety, “emptiness”, feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, worthlessness, guilt, lost of interest in hobbies that were once enjoyed. Decreased energy, fatigue, difficulty in concentrating, remembering and even making decisions are all symptoms of depression.
It is not all a gloomy situation. Antidepressant medication can be a sure way of getting out of the troubles of depression. But first, seek advice from a qualified psychologist or a psychotherapist to diagnose and treat you whenever you start experiencing the symptoms If you don’t, you could end up on the streets in rugs, or even naked.
Psychologists have identified various kinds of mental illness that affect every individual at a point in time. These include anxiety, mood, eating, impulse control and addiction disorders. Others are sexual and gender, personality and dissociative disorders.
One of the very common mental illnesses is mood disorders. These disorders involve persistent feelings of sadness or feeling overly happy or fluctuations from extreme sadness to extreme happiness and vice versa. Research has shown that depression, maniac and bipolar disorders are the very common mood disorders affecting many people.
In spite of the many less serious effects that some forms of mental illness offer to patients, depressive disorder becomes an exception. A depressive disorder is more than a passing mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness and it cannot be willed or wished away. It involves the body, mood and thoughts. People who are depressed cannot “snap out of it” and simply get better. Without treatment, symptoms can last for months or even years.
Symptoms related to depression are persistent sadness, anxiety, “emptiness”, feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, worthlessness, guilt, lost of interest in hobbies that were once enjoyed. Decreased energy, fatigue, difficulty in concentrating, remembering and even making decisions are all symptoms of depression.
It is not all a gloomy situation. Antidepressant medication can be a sure way of getting out of the troubles of depression. But first, seek advice from a qualified psychologist or a psychotherapist to diagnose and treat you whenever you start experiencing the symptoms If you don’t, you could end up on the streets in rugs, or even naked.
THE PROBLEM OF STREET CHILDREN AND HOW TO SOLVE IT.
In article 28 (1) (a) of the 1992 constitution of the Republic of Ghana indicates that “every child has the right to the same measure of special care, assistance and maintenance as is necessary for its development from its natural parents, except where those parents have effectively surrendered their rights and responsibilities in respect of the child in accordance with the law”.
If every child has the right to the same measure of special care, assistance and maintenance, how then the street is now full of a certain category of people called street children. A street child is one who is homeless and depends on the street for his daily bread. In Accra, there are over two hundred thousand (200,000) street children according to Catholic Action for Street Children (CAS). The incidence of street children is caused by many factors.
The first cause of street children is urbanization. For decades of years children have migrated from Ghana’s rural regions to the cities in search for education, vocational training and jobs only to realize that life in the urban areas is equally difficult. Since they cannot cope with hustle and bustle of the big towns and cities they resort to the streets. The government should disburse enough funds to the District Assemblies to help set up small scale industries which under efficient management and entrepreneurship would boom into large scale industries as to curb the unfortunate phenomenon of urbanization.
Family disintegration is also a major cause of street children. About 70% of marriages do not last. Due to the fact that, most people do not understand the true purpose of the institution of marriage. As a result, most marriages end up in a divorce and children if not well catered for, find themselves on the street fending for themselves. To control this causal factor of street children, couples preparing for this sacred institution should take counseling seriously before they go into wedlock. They must do their best to endure each other at least for the sake of their children. According to Catholic Action for Street Children (CAS) findings, 86% of children who find themselves permanently on the street are product of family disintegration and most of them are within the age range of seven (7) to fifteen (15) years.
Lastly, teenage pregnancy is also a factor which causes street children. Most teenagers are now obsessed with sexual activities so much that they refuse to take precautions. When these teens deliver, they hardly take very good care of their children. At certain instances, the children have to fend for themselves because the house is not supportive. The possibility that this child would turn into a street child is very high. Sex education should be put on school timetables and parents should advise their children on early sex and its consequences. Also the media should introduce sex educative programs.
In the nutshell, if the solutions given as to how to solve the problem of urbanization, family disintegration and teenage pregnancy are taken into consideration. I believe all our streets would be free of street children. Also, those who would have ended up in the streets will become useful citizens. And this will be beneficial to the nation as a whole.
Regina Asamoah
Ghana Institute of Journalism
If every child has the right to the same measure of special care, assistance and maintenance, how then the street is now full of a certain category of people called street children. A street child is one who is homeless and depends on the street for his daily bread. In Accra, there are over two hundred thousand (200,000) street children according to Catholic Action for Street Children (CAS). The incidence of street children is caused by many factors.
The first cause of street children is urbanization. For decades of years children have migrated from Ghana’s rural regions to the cities in search for education, vocational training and jobs only to realize that life in the urban areas is equally difficult. Since they cannot cope with hustle and bustle of the big towns and cities they resort to the streets. The government should disburse enough funds to the District Assemblies to help set up small scale industries which under efficient management and entrepreneurship would boom into large scale industries as to curb the unfortunate phenomenon of urbanization.
Family disintegration is also a major cause of street children. About 70% of marriages do not last. Due to the fact that, most people do not understand the true purpose of the institution of marriage. As a result, most marriages end up in a divorce and children if not well catered for, find themselves on the street fending for themselves. To control this causal factor of street children, couples preparing for this sacred institution should take counseling seriously before they go into wedlock. They must do their best to endure each other at least for the sake of their children. According to Catholic Action for Street Children (CAS) findings, 86% of children who find themselves permanently on the street are product of family disintegration and most of them are within the age range of seven (7) to fifteen (15) years.
Lastly, teenage pregnancy is also a factor which causes street children. Most teenagers are now obsessed with sexual activities so much that they refuse to take precautions. When these teens deliver, they hardly take very good care of their children. At certain instances, the children have to fend for themselves because the house is not supportive. The possibility that this child would turn into a street child is very high. Sex education should be put on school timetables and parents should advise their children on early sex and its consequences. Also the media should introduce sex educative programs.
In the nutshell, if the solutions given as to how to solve the problem of urbanization, family disintegration and teenage pregnancy are taken into consideration. I believe all our streets would be free of street children. Also, those who would have ended up in the streets will become useful citizens. And this will be beneficial to the nation as a whole.
Regina Asamoah
Ghana Institute of Journalism
RESTRUCTURE THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS
By: Regina Asamoah
Ghana Institute of Journalism
Have you ever wondered why you sit in traffic for hours after a hard day’s work when going to any destination of your choice? What is the essence of a traffic light? Are they really serving their purpose? Have these questions ever clicked your mind as you sit in a heavy traffic?
Decades ago, traffic lights were constructed to control the movement of vehicles. Every traffic light has a vehicle sensor and it often operates on timers. This means every traffic light is structured base on a time setting with the consideration of the number of vehicles. This calls for the need for restructuring of the time setting of our traffic lights since there has been a drastic increase in the number of vehicles we have today.
It then means the traffic lights are not really serving their purposes of controlling the movement of cars but rather generating congestion of vehicles on our roads which has been termed by people as ‘traffic’.
Time settings of our traffic lights ought to be looked at to prevent the heavy traffic one has to endure almost everyday. Aside restructuring the time settings of traffic lights, other damaged traffic lights ought to be repaired. Also the time settings of traffic lights could be changed probably every year based on the statistics of increased number of vehicles in the country.
I believe if this is done it would curb the problem of massive and rampant traffics in every street, round about as well as juctions.Also this will save the student, the worker and the traveler much time thereby reducing stress and save precious hours, man could invest to increase productivity.
.
Ghana Institute of Journalism
Have you ever wondered why you sit in traffic for hours after a hard day’s work when going to any destination of your choice? What is the essence of a traffic light? Are they really serving their purpose? Have these questions ever clicked your mind as you sit in a heavy traffic?
Decades ago, traffic lights were constructed to control the movement of vehicles. Every traffic light has a vehicle sensor and it often operates on timers. This means every traffic light is structured base on a time setting with the consideration of the number of vehicles. This calls for the need for restructuring of the time setting of our traffic lights since there has been a drastic increase in the number of vehicles we have today.
It then means the traffic lights are not really serving their purposes of controlling the movement of cars but rather generating congestion of vehicles on our roads which has been termed by people as ‘traffic’.
Time settings of our traffic lights ought to be looked at to prevent the heavy traffic one has to endure almost everyday. Aside restructuring the time settings of traffic lights, other damaged traffic lights ought to be repaired. Also the time settings of traffic lights could be changed probably every year based on the statistics of increased number of vehicles in the country.
I believe if this is done it would curb the problem of massive and rampant traffics in every street, round about as well as juctions.Also this will save the student, the worker and the traveler much time thereby reducing stress and save precious hours, man could invest to increase productivity.
.
BREAST CANCER, LIFE THREATENING!
By: Regina Asamoah
Ghana Institute of Journalism.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, with approximately one in nine women developing the disease in her life time. Although breast cancer is known to affect women it can be equally destructive to men. Male breast cancer accounts for 1% of all diagnosed breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a disease in which cancerous cells are found in the tissues of the breast. These cancerous cells continue to grow and eventually form into a lump known as a tumor. Although more than 80% of breast lumps are not cancerous, a process known as a biopsy is the only way to know for sure. A biopsy requires the doctor to remove a small sample of tissue and examine it under a microscope and check for cancerous cells.
Although breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women between the ages of 35 and 54 the causes of breast cancer are not known. The development of cancer has been closely linked to heredity. A genetic mutation (a change in the genetic code) could be passed to a family. History of cancer could be due to a dominant gene that makes cancer more likely to be passed down from generation to generation.
Breast cancer can be treated. You need to see a doctor if you notice changes in your breast. Not all breast cancers or breast cancer patients are alike; therefore treatment will vary with the individual. An individual’s chance of recovery depends upon a number of factors such as
• The stage of the cancer (whether it is just in the breast or has spread to other parts of the body)
• The type of breast cancer
• The certain characteristics of the cancer cells
• Your age and weight
• Menopausal status
• Overall state of health
Once breast cancer can be found, more tests could be conducted to see if the cancer has spread from the breast to other parts of the body. Even after an individual has been treated for breast cancer, it is possible for the cancer to come back. However in most cases, the cancer can be treated but usually cannot be cured, once the breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
What are the strategies for preventing this type of cancer? Some researchers believe that maintaining a low-fat diet can lower a persons risk for breast cancer. Also, one should consult a physician before taking any hormone- containing drugs such as some contraceptives, since some of these medications have been linked to breast cancer. A breast self- examination should be practiced monthly. Ask your doctor or nurse to teach you the proper method.
Ghana Institute of Journalism.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, with approximately one in nine women developing the disease in her life time. Although breast cancer is known to affect women it can be equally destructive to men. Male breast cancer accounts for 1% of all diagnosed breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a disease in which cancerous cells are found in the tissues of the breast. These cancerous cells continue to grow and eventually form into a lump known as a tumor. Although more than 80% of breast lumps are not cancerous, a process known as a biopsy is the only way to know for sure. A biopsy requires the doctor to remove a small sample of tissue and examine it under a microscope and check for cancerous cells.
Although breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women between the ages of 35 and 54 the causes of breast cancer are not known. The development of cancer has been closely linked to heredity. A genetic mutation (a change in the genetic code) could be passed to a family. History of cancer could be due to a dominant gene that makes cancer more likely to be passed down from generation to generation.
Breast cancer can be treated. You need to see a doctor if you notice changes in your breast. Not all breast cancers or breast cancer patients are alike; therefore treatment will vary with the individual. An individual’s chance of recovery depends upon a number of factors such as
• The stage of the cancer (whether it is just in the breast or has spread to other parts of the body)
• The type of breast cancer
• The certain characteristics of the cancer cells
• Your age and weight
• Menopausal status
• Overall state of health
Once breast cancer can be found, more tests could be conducted to see if the cancer has spread from the breast to other parts of the body. Even after an individual has been treated for breast cancer, it is possible for the cancer to come back. However in most cases, the cancer can be treated but usually cannot be cured, once the breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
What are the strategies for preventing this type of cancer? Some researchers believe that maintaining a low-fat diet can lower a persons risk for breast cancer. Also, one should consult a physician before taking any hormone- containing drugs such as some contraceptives, since some of these medications have been linked to breast cancer. A breast self- examination should be practiced monthly. Ask your doctor or nurse to teach you the proper method.
COMPARE AND CONTRAST THE LIBERTARIAN AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY THEORIES
GHANA INSTITUTE OF JOURNALISM
Normative theory is any theory which seeks to explain or predict what would happen under theoretical constraints; what ought to be done. (Susan Mayhew, a Dictionary of Geography 2004) There are four main theories under the normative theory which were propounded by Wilbur Schramm, Siebert and Peterson. These theories (Libertarian, Social Responsibility, Soviet Communist and Authoritarian) involve ideal views of how journalism or media ought to be or are expected to be. These theories were in attempt to clarify the connection between the media and political society in the modern world. It is essential to examine these theories (social responsibility and libertarian theories) noting their obvious similarities and differences. However in order to properly determine the relationship between the two and their association to the press, in-depth examination proves essential.
Libertarian theory marks a break from authoritarian system of society in that no longer was the truth unattainable by common men. No longer did knowledge itself need to be handed down from a high authority from which both understanding and truth traditionally acquired. From these origins of the rejection of authority came the ideas that formed the postulate of libertarian theory. It is a political theory that holds the rights of the individual above all other considerations and seeks to minimize the power of the state to the safeguarding of these rights. (http://encyclopedia.farlex.com/libertarian+theorysocial responsibility)
Social Responsibility theory, on the other hand is an outgrowth of libertarian theory. It is an ethical theory that an entity whether it is government, corporation, organization or individual has a responsibility to society. (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia). It asserts that the press is always a reflection of the social and political configuration within which it operates.
Libertarian and Social Responsibility theories are the basis upon which the free press should and does run in a democratic society. It is therefore important to examine their similarities and differences.
The two theories explained earlier assert that the press must allow the individuals to have ‘the free market place for ideas’. Meaning, the media serves to provide a ‘forum’ in which people can exchange ideas, and through such Socratic dialogue, can arrive at the truth. It must also provide a market place for ideas where all ideas of men should be included. For as John Stuart Mill wrote ‘to suppress any idea, no matter how unlikely it may be, would mean that one is potentially suppressing the truth. Even if it is not the truth, suppressing objections could hinder in the possibility of actually, attaining or maintaining the strength of the truth. The media in Ghana try to provide a free market place for ideas by seeking viewers, listeners, readers, audience comments on a particular topic broadcast or published in the mass media. Phone in sections of programmes are all in attempt to provide a free market place for ideas. Despite the similarities between these two theories, the Social Responsibility theory critiques the Libertarian theory for discarding its role to serve free market place in the face of its own economic ends, submitting to businesses, allowing conditions necessary for advertisers to control or influence editorial principles , trampling on the notion of free objective reporting.
Moreover, both theories talk of how the press should operate/function in a particular political structure. This means, both theories emphasizes on the media’s structure (the political and economic system in which the media operates) and its performance (how the media carry out their roles /functions in the given political and economic system). In relation to the functions/ performance of the press both theories sees the function of the press as entertainment, educational tool, a check on government or watchdog role and maintaining self-sufficiency via advertising sales to be free from external demand. However, the Social Responsible theorists’ criticize the Libertarian interpretation in this regard due to the fact the media in Libertarian society trends to put emphasis on economics over educational and information value. The press in Ghana for example in a way emphasizes on economic ends thereby allowing more advertisements to run within programmes which should carry educative and informative messages. For instance, a programme like ‘Adult Education’ is broadcast air and there is numerous advertisements of alcohol beverages within such a programme which should carry educative and informative messages.
Also, Libertarian and Social Responsibility theories have an assumption regarding the nature of man. These theories abandon the ideas of coveting knowledge as in authoritarian system and instead accept scientific and Socratic method to arrive at the truth that is attainable by rational man. The difference here is that, the Libertarian theory sees man as being capable of distinguishing between truth and falsehood, between good and evil (John Milton, John Locke, Saint Simone) whereas in Social Responsibility theory man is seen as passive and indolent, unwilling to use his reason instead choosing acceptance of that which he is told. As such there is a necessity for those who have awareness (the press) to spur him into utilizing his reason. Although the Social Responsibility theory sees man as reluctant participant in seeking knowledge and truth, it concedes to the objectives stated in the libertarian theory but does not hesitate to point out the ineffectiveness of self- righting process. That is why the media in Social Responsibility theory brings out programmes that spur the reasons of man. The media (Ghana) for instance organizes programmes such as Mentor, Dance Fever, Gang Star, Bands Alive, Stars of the Future, MTN Project Fame and so on. All these programmes are geared towards spurring up man’s senses.
In addition, the idea of freedom is propagated by both theories. The freedom the press should have in performing it functions in a country. In the Libertarian theory, it asserts that no other entity takes precedence over the individual. This idea was shaped by Locke who made the assertion that: ‘the government is a privilege institution whose guardianship and authority of state power could be removed if and when the people extracted their support.’ This is also evident in the mind of John Stuart Mill ‘the only instance in which state restrictions on an individual could be tolerated is if that person was harming another, or has the concept of negative freedom’. The Social Responsibility theory on the other hand supports the idea of freedom of the press but in a different direction. It asserts that the press should be free but work within a self principled responsibility.
The Social Responsibility theory began to bring to the fore front the issue of moral responsibility of the press, which one will encounter nowhere when looking at the Libertarian theory. The press in the Libertarian theory was seen as endangering public morals and also paid more attention to superficial and sensations in its coverage of current happenings.
In conclusion, both theories including the other two theories (Authoritarian and Soviet Communist) have been criticized a lot. Among these criticisms were:
They fail to recognize other prevailing political systems like the Scandinavian model.
They fail to recognize media systems in the third world countries (developing countries).
Too idealistic (strong belief in perfect standards).
They fail to recognize changes in societies and political thinking over time.
COURSE: MASS COMMUNICATION
LECTURER: KWODJO BOATENG
STUDENT: REGINA ASAMOAH
INDEX NO: DCSM 2010017
References
• Susan Mayhew, A Dictionary of Geography 2004, originally published by Oxford University Press 2004.
• Research Machines plc 2009, http://encyclopedia.farlex.com/libertarian+theorySocialresponsibility.
• Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
• A criticism of Social Responsibility Theory an Ethical Perspective. Journal article by Scott Lloyd; Journal of Mass Media Ethics Vol. 6, 1991
• McQuail’s Mass Communication Theory, Denis McQuail, fifth edition.
Normative theory is any theory which seeks to explain or predict what would happen under theoretical constraints; what ought to be done. (Susan Mayhew, a Dictionary of Geography 2004) There are four main theories under the normative theory which were propounded by Wilbur Schramm, Siebert and Peterson. These theories (Libertarian, Social Responsibility, Soviet Communist and Authoritarian) involve ideal views of how journalism or media ought to be or are expected to be. These theories were in attempt to clarify the connection between the media and political society in the modern world. It is essential to examine these theories (social responsibility and libertarian theories) noting their obvious similarities and differences. However in order to properly determine the relationship between the two and their association to the press, in-depth examination proves essential.
Libertarian theory marks a break from authoritarian system of society in that no longer was the truth unattainable by common men. No longer did knowledge itself need to be handed down from a high authority from which both understanding and truth traditionally acquired. From these origins of the rejection of authority came the ideas that formed the postulate of libertarian theory. It is a political theory that holds the rights of the individual above all other considerations and seeks to minimize the power of the state to the safeguarding of these rights. (http://encyclopedia.farlex.com/libertarian+theorysocial responsibility)
Social Responsibility theory, on the other hand is an outgrowth of libertarian theory. It is an ethical theory that an entity whether it is government, corporation, organization or individual has a responsibility to society. (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia). It asserts that the press is always a reflection of the social and political configuration within which it operates.
Libertarian and Social Responsibility theories are the basis upon which the free press should and does run in a democratic society. It is therefore important to examine their similarities and differences.
The two theories explained earlier assert that the press must allow the individuals to have ‘the free market place for ideas’. Meaning, the media serves to provide a ‘forum’ in which people can exchange ideas, and through such Socratic dialogue, can arrive at the truth. It must also provide a market place for ideas where all ideas of men should be included. For as John Stuart Mill wrote ‘to suppress any idea, no matter how unlikely it may be, would mean that one is potentially suppressing the truth. Even if it is not the truth, suppressing objections could hinder in the possibility of actually, attaining or maintaining the strength of the truth. The media in Ghana try to provide a free market place for ideas by seeking viewers, listeners, readers, audience comments on a particular topic broadcast or published in the mass media. Phone in sections of programmes are all in attempt to provide a free market place for ideas. Despite the similarities between these two theories, the Social Responsibility theory critiques the Libertarian theory for discarding its role to serve free market place in the face of its own economic ends, submitting to businesses, allowing conditions necessary for advertisers to control or influence editorial principles , trampling on the notion of free objective reporting.
Moreover, both theories talk of how the press should operate/function in a particular political structure. This means, both theories emphasizes on the media’s structure (the political and economic system in which the media operates) and its performance (how the media carry out their roles /functions in the given political and economic system). In relation to the functions/ performance of the press both theories sees the function of the press as entertainment, educational tool, a check on government or watchdog role and maintaining self-sufficiency via advertising sales to be free from external demand. However, the Social Responsible theorists’ criticize the Libertarian interpretation in this regard due to the fact the media in Libertarian society trends to put emphasis on economics over educational and information value. The press in Ghana for example in a way emphasizes on economic ends thereby allowing more advertisements to run within programmes which should carry educative and informative messages. For instance, a programme like ‘Adult Education’ is broadcast air and there is numerous advertisements of alcohol beverages within such a programme which should carry educative and informative messages.
Also, Libertarian and Social Responsibility theories have an assumption regarding the nature of man. These theories abandon the ideas of coveting knowledge as in authoritarian system and instead accept scientific and Socratic method to arrive at the truth that is attainable by rational man. The difference here is that, the Libertarian theory sees man as being capable of distinguishing between truth and falsehood, between good and evil (John Milton, John Locke, Saint Simone) whereas in Social Responsibility theory man is seen as passive and indolent, unwilling to use his reason instead choosing acceptance of that which he is told. As such there is a necessity for those who have awareness (the press) to spur him into utilizing his reason. Although the Social Responsibility theory sees man as reluctant participant in seeking knowledge and truth, it concedes to the objectives stated in the libertarian theory but does not hesitate to point out the ineffectiveness of self- righting process. That is why the media in Social Responsibility theory brings out programmes that spur the reasons of man. The media (Ghana) for instance organizes programmes such as Mentor, Dance Fever, Gang Star, Bands Alive, Stars of the Future, MTN Project Fame and so on. All these programmes are geared towards spurring up man’s senses.
In addition, the idea of freedom is propagated by both theories. The freedom the press should have in performing it functions in a country. In the Libertarian theory, it asserts that no other entity takes precedence over the individual. This idea was shaped by Locke who made the assertion that: ‘the government is a privilege institution whose guardianship and authority of state power could be removed if and when the people extracted their support.’ This is also evident in the mind of John Stuart Mill ‘the only instance in which state restrictions on an individual could be tolerated is if that person was harming another, or has the concept of negative freedom’. The Social Responsibility theory on the other hand supports the idea of freedom of the press but in a different direction. It asserts that the press should be free but work within a self principled responsibility.
The Social Responsibility theory began to bring to the fore front the issue of moral responsibility of the press, which one will encounter nowhere when looking at the Libertarian theory. The press in the Libertarian theory was seen as endangering public morals and also paid more attention to superficial and sensations in its coverage of current happenings.
In conclusion, both theories including the other two theories (Authoritarian and Soviet Communist) have been criticized a lot. Among these criticisms were:
They fail to recognize other prevailing political systems like the Scandinavian model.
They fail to recognize media systems in the third world countries (developing countries).
Too idealistic (strong belief in perfect standards).
They fail to recognize changes in societies and political thinking over time.
COURSE: MASS COMMUNICATION
LECTURER: KWODJO BOATENG
STUDENT: REGINA ASAMOAH
INDEX NO: DCSM 2010017
References
• Susan Mayhew, A Dictionary of Geography 2004, originally published by Oxford University Press 2004.
• Research Machines plc 2009, http://encyclopedia.farlex.com/libertarian+theorySocialresponsibility.
• Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
• A criticism of Social Responsibility Theory an Ethical Perspective. Journal article by Scott Lloyd; Journal of Mass Media Ethics Vol. 6, 1991
• McQuail’s Mass Communication Theory, Denis McQuail, fifth edition.
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