Writ 340 Blog

 Extra Credit Assignment: Vaccination History Article: I wasn't too familiar with the history of vaccinations - it was not a topic that I'd given much thought to in my life until now, but reading and learning about it has been a lot more interesting than I thought. I've always thought the fundamental concept of vaccination was just exposing one to certain bacteria/viruses so they can build antigens against it when the body comes in contact with them. I never knew that the practice began in a rudimentary form with "variolation," a method used in ancient times where material from a smallpox sore was introduced into the skin of an uninfected person.  Reflecting on the history of vaccination not only underscores the importance of scientific inquiry and innovation but also the ongoing need for public trust and global cooperation in addressing health crises. As we continue to face new and resurging infectious threats, the history of vaccination stands as a testament to ...

World We Dare to Imagine: Post 1 Eari Nakano In the legal world, not many individuals pursue “international law” as it is a category that is much less concrete than other faucets of law such as civil and criminal. While I am still far from becoming a practicing lawyer, I hope that this path leads to contributing to addressing human rights violations both locally and on a global scale. As of right now, I hope to contribute through public speaking engagements, writing articles, and engaging with the media, constantly educating myself and others about the realities of conflict and the legal mechanisms in place to address them. By fostering a broader understanding of humanitarian law, I hope to inspire others to take action, support humanitarian causes, and contribute to building a more just and compassionate world. The excerpt of the book states, “today we are redefining the geography of community and accepting shared accountability for common human values.” Oftentimes the grave violation...

Random Post #2  My Favorite Caffeinated Beverages There are a handful of things that I truly cannot imagine my life without - these include my friends and family, my comfort tv shows, good music, and of course, caffeinated beverages. As I finish up my 16th year of schooling (finally), I thought I would rank some of my favorite drinks that truly fueled me throughout the years.  Yerba Mate  I’ve never had a Yerba growing up in Massachusetts – to me it seemed like a new California fad that I thought was great marketing but probably tastes disgusting. I was wrong. When I first moved to California I hesitantly tried my first Yerba Mate and was immediately impressed by its refreshing flavors and subtle sweetness. As someone who despises overly sweet beverages, Yerba has become a new staple in my mini fridge and my favorite caffeinated treat. However, it is important to note that the only two flavors that I drink are: Revel Berry and Peach Revival - the others (especially Tropic...

 Book 2: Post #2 Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core by Dr. Rick Hanson My second book, Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core by Dr. Rick Hanson is a thought-provoking and practical guide to developing inner strength and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Drawing from scientific research and ancient wisdom traditions, the book depicted valuable insights and strategies for cultivating a resilient mindset. What I acknowledged the most from this book is the importance of actively cultivating positive experiences and emotions to counterbalance the brain's natural negativity bias. By actively integrating these principles into our daily lives, Dr. Hanson illustrates the possibilities of fostering a resilient mindset that enables us to bounce back from adversity and thrive in the face of difficulties. One of my biggest takeaways was the significance of taking in positive experiences and allowing them to sink into our core being. Dr. Hanson highlights the concept ...

  To: Clark Hansen, CEO of Anima Mundi Development Partners (AMDP) From: Eari Nakano, Research and Development Analyst for AMDP Date: March 5, 2024 Subject: Investment Opportunity in Stella McCartney Ltd. Executive Summary This memo proposes that AMDP invests in Stella McCartney Ltd., a trailblazing fashion brand that aligns seamlessly with AMDP's core values of social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and profitability. Stella McCartney has been a pioneer in the luxury sustainable fashion industry, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and ethical practices that could make it a valuable addition to our investment portfolio. I will begin by highlighting the values of AMDP, followed by an analysis of Stella McCartney’s financials as well as their commitment to sustainable/ethical standards. Next, I will provide two expert sources that authenticate Stella McCartney’s commitment to environmental and socially responsible practices. Finally, I will present my final reco...

 Jill Lepore's article, "How the Week Organizes and Tyrannizes Our Lives," scrutinizes the seven-day week's profound influence on American society, dissecting its historical roots and questioning its contemporary relevance. One of the most striking elements of Lepore's analysis is the recognition of the week as a malleable construct. The seven-day rhythm, she notes, has no astronomical basis—unlike the day, month, or year—but is a concoction of cultural, religious, and historical factors. By referencing Henkin's categorization of the week into the astronomical, dominical, and pandemic versions, Lepore emphasizes how our perception of the week has evolved alongside societal changes.  Lepore's personal vignettes, such as her collection of outdated Letts diaries and her mother's method of doling out lunch and milk money, serve as metaphors for the larger societal adherence to the weekly cycle. These personal touches also underscore the tension between the...