Atheism 3.0 finds a little more room for religion Oct 20, 2009
Religion has always had its cultured defenders, atheists who speak up for the social benefits of faith. The philosopher , for instance, did not believe in the Greek pantheon, but argued that other people should, for the good of society. (USA Today -- News)
* Taiwanese scoop 24 prizes at British Invention Show Oct 20, 2009
A panel of 25 judges from the British Inventors Society rated the inventions on display on their ecological and social benefits to mankind, as well as design, ingenuity and originality. All 24 entries submitted by Taiwanese inventors won prizes, as Taiwan outperform the 17 other countries taking part in the show. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
Brothel cuts rates for 'green' customers Oct 17, 2009
The 450,000 prostitutes working in Germany, some 10,000 of whom are in Berlin, have the same legal rights and social benefits as people in other professions. Type Size. (AZCentral -- News)
University papers must uphold right to free speech Oct 13, 2009
To have an administration meddle - either directly or indirectly - in this series of investigation and prevention is to delegitimize all the social benefits we receive from it. That is why Moore's actions are reprehensible. (The Daily Campus, CT)
World will miss 2010 target to stem biodiversity loss, experts say Oct 12, 2009
"It's important for experts to simply exchange the results of their latest research, but the goal of this conference is to collect insights of practical use to policy makers, and to demonstrate the social benefits of investment in species conservation," she says. . (EurekAlert!)
Time to consider phasing out tax-supported sports programsWhittling away at budgets could bring them all down Oct 11, 2009
The club and league sports models utilized in other countries (as well as for some programs right here, such as Falcons baseball and youth league soccer) could fill the void, provide the social benefits, and even provide the academic augmentation. But there would be a lot to figure out. (Klamath Falls Herald & News, OR)
South Africa: Opportunities Spring From E-Waste Oct 7, 2009
"There are social, economic and environmental advantages. If projects are well run, they generate income for a certain group of people which has a number of social benefits. "Environmental benefits include managing the release of poisonous gases. When a computer lands in a landfill, it leaches cadmium, mercury, lead and other metals into the ground, which inevitably end up in water sources. (allAfrica.com)
Going, going, gone Oct 6, 2009
"They don't have the ticket to get home. They don't have recourse to social benefits because they're undocumented. They're off every kind of radar.". There has been very little social tension even as the Irish economy has slowed, though unemployment in the area has been rising sharply for the Irish too. (BBC News -- Americas)
Soccer better than running for fitness Oct 3, 2009
"What is really interesting is that the soccer players differed from the runners in their motivation, said associate Professor Laila Ottesen. The runners were motivated by the idea of getting in shape and improving health. But the soccer players focused on the game itself and were motivated by the social interaction and by having fun with others. As it turns out, the soccer players got in better shape than the runners, and that combined with the social benefits makes soccer a great... (India Times, India)
EPA Announces Plan to Review Six Controversial Chemicals Oct 1, 2009
Administrator Lisa Jackson announced investigations of BPA and phthalates, among others, as well as a push for chemical regulatory reform generally. BPA BLOCK: Lisa Jackson announced that the EPA will start to regulate high-profile chemicals including bisphenol A found in hard plastic bottles. (Scientific American)
Too much of a good thing ... Oct 1, 2009
Arguably, home ownership also provides broader social benefits such as stable communities in which people feel they have a tangible stake, and to which they are willing to contribute. For these reasons, government policies aimed at increasing home ownership - such as direct grants to home buyers, and more favourable tax treatment of owner-occupied housing than other assets - have long enjoyed widespread support. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Business)
Win-Win transportation solutions Sep 30, 2009
Our current system of depending on them for even short distances is not maximizing social benefits and often provides a financial burden on people, according to Todd Litman, executive director of the Victoria Transport Policy Institute. Litman was the presenter at the Win-Win Transportation Solutions for a Sustainable Kaua i workshop in August, sponsored by Kaua i Planning & Action Alliance, the County s Transportation Agency and Get Fit Kaua i Coalition. (Lihue Garden Island, HA)
Paragould celebrates Family Day Sep 30, 2009
The emotional and social benefits that come from family dinners are priceless, said Elizabeth Planet, CASA s vice president and director of special projects, in a press release. We know that teens who have frequent family dinners are likelier to get A s and B s in school and have excellent relationships with their parents. (Paragould Daily Press, AR)
Molenaar clears up transportation myths on bus ride Sep 24, 2009
After listening to several students make small talk, Molenaar discussed the social benefits of transit. Riding the buses is one of the few things that every student has to do. (The Daily Targum, NJ)
CASA* Report Finds Teens Who Have Infrequent Family Dinners Likelier to Drink, Smoke, Use Marijuana Sep 23, 2009
"The magic of the family dinner comes not from the food on the plate but from who's at the table and what's happening there. The emotional and social benefits that come from family dinners are priceless," said Elizabeth Planet, CASA's Vice President and Director of Special Projects. "We know that teens who have frequent family dinners are likelier to get A's and B's in school and have excellent relationships with their parents. Having dinner as a family is one of the easiest ways to create... (PR Newswire)
World Tourism Day activities start with exhibition Sep 23, 2009
She appealed to government and relevant decision makers to make the tourism sector a priority in Ghana's development planning, adding that the industry was bound to generate enormous economic and social benefits for the people of Ghana. Ms. Cynthia Awuni of SavannaLand, an organization committed to the promotion of tourists' attractions in Northern Ghana, said she hoped that after the exhibition, tourists' visits up country would scale up. (Ghana Web, Ghana)
Nalco Ranks in Top 100 of Newsweek's Green Rankings Sep 23, 2009
"Nalco continually works to develop sustainable technologies that have environmental, economic and social benefits. Our mission is to help our customers save water and energy, enhance production and improve air quality all while helping them reduce their total cost of operations. All Nalco employees appreciate this recognition of those efforts.". Nalco finished 92nd in the 2009 Newsweek Green Rankings and was ranked 8th out of 47 companies listed in its industry category. (Primezone Releases)
The Global Financial Crisis and Low-Income Countries -- Domestic and International Policy Responses, Remarks by Dominique Strauss-Kahn, Managing Director, International Monetary Fund at the Resources for the Future Sep 18, 2009
For many people in these countries, when food prices triple, when jobs are lost, when remittance flows are severed, public social benefits are the only answer. I am heartened that governments have done their best to protect social safety nets. (IMF News)
AfDB Approves U.S.$ 175 Million Loan for Mining Operation in Mauritania Sep 18, 2009
In addition to the financing, the Bank has contributed significantly in maximizing the project's environmental and social benefits. It mobilized significant resources to manage the preparation of the environmental framework study and the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), for the benefit of all donors. (allAfrica.com)
Sarkozy seeks economic happy talk Sep 16, 2009
However, critics have pointed out that measuring happiness will make France's struggling economy, famous for its short working week and generous social benefits, look better. The French Government is now planning to include many of the happiness indicators in its regular growth statistics. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Business)
Business and environment go head-to-head in migration debate Sep 16, 2009
But for all the talk of the economy, the author Tom Keneally concluded that migration was most importantly a moral and humanitarian concern, bringing discussion back towards the environment with a mention of climate refugees, and the social benefits migrants have brought to Australian culture. Comments. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
HITTING THE GYM: Improves quality of life as you age Sep 16, 2009
"It's something I look forward to," says Dancy, who also enjoys the social benefits of going to the gym. "It got me out of the house and now, I feel like I can get around easier and faster than a lot of people who are quite a bit younger than me. I feel like a spring chicken.". (USA Today -- News)
Stoltenberg Becomes First Norwegian Leader to Win Re-Election in 16 Years Sep 15, 2009
Norways Premier Wins Re-Election, First in 16 Years (Update1) - Bloomberg. Updated: New York, Sep 15 04:14 London, Sep 15 09:14 Tokyo, Sep 15 17:14. (Bloomberg -- Europe)
Sept. 10 Around Town Sep 12, 2009
There are social benefits, too; if you sing in a group, you meet new people, and you learn to become part of the community. A Google search for disadvantages of singing turns up no results. (Littleton Independent, MA)
Another culture war awaits over immigration reform Sep 12, 2009
Don t you think they will use these same fraudulent documents to get social benefits, since the Dems are ensuring no one will check. In fact, in some states that have pulled coverage for illegals, hospitals are reporting an increase in document fraud in attempts to get taxpayer subsidized coverage. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
US Prison System Falls Short In Treating Drug Addiction, Study Finds Sep 11, 2009
"In spite of overwhelming scientific evidence demonstrating that pharmacological treatment for addiction has greater health and social benefits than abstinence-only policies, many prison directors are philosophically opposed to treating substance use. Most prisons also do not provide referrals for substance use treatment for prisoners upon release," said Nunn. "These trends contribute to high reincarceration rates and have detrimental impacts on community health. Our interviews with prison... (Science Daily)
School gets presidential pep talk Sep 10, 2009
"A crucial fact is that education has both private and social benefits. That is, it's good both for the individual and for society," Romer said, citing a Harvard study that showed college graduates typically earn 81 percent more than high school graduates. "What this means is that education helps to improve living standards for individuals. Higher education is associated with greater self-reported life satisfaction. And likewise, having a job that requires special education and training is... (GW Hatchet, Washington DC)
Senior Chinese leader stresses library services Sep 10, 2009
"Currently our country is in the best time for cultural construction... All libraries should give the highest priority to social benefits and provide convenient services for people in bothurban and rural areas," said Li, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau. "Libraries are an important part of infrastructure for public services and they indicate the progress of social civilization," he added. (Xinhuanet, China)
Home fibre plans survive downturn Sep 8, 2009
Local governments were interested in FTTH because of the economic and social benefits it brought in its wake, said Mr Helsen. The low latency or delay inherent in high-speed fibre networks made possible novel uses of broadband, he said. (BBC News -- Technology)
Fundamental changes ahead in tax review Sep 7, 2009
Nevertheless, Henry's comments so far indicate the review will aim to retract social benefits that discourage people from entering the workforce. The disability support pension appears a target. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Business)
Economy, better health lead to longer time in workforce Sep 3, 2009
Older adults emphasize the psychological and social benefits of working. "The reasons for working are beyond pure pocketbook motives," says Paul Taylor, Pew executive vice president. (USA Today -- Money)
U.S.' past, China's future? Sep 3, 2009
Smith provides the foundation for capitalism and explains that individuals acting in their self-interests unintentionally generate social benefits through "invisible" market forces that promote market equilibrium and community happiness. The creative tension that existed between Jefferson and Hamilton, who sided with each of Smith's visions, could have easily disintegrated into violent factionalism were it not for the stabilizing hand of the first US president Washington. (Xinhuanet, China)
UN to guide parental leave: McClelland Sep 2, 2009
Mr McClelland said Australia's commitment to the UN optional protocol would guide the development of maternity leave "with pay of comparable social benefits". "By introducing the scheme here, we will provide benefits commensurate with international standards and will encourage workers to stay connected to their jobs," the attorney-general told the World Congress of the International Society of Labour Law and Social Security Law in Sydney on Tuesday. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Opinion)
Libby's Vegetables and Country Music Star Sara Evans Encourage Families to Eat Better, Together This September Sep 2, 2009
While eating at home ranks first on the list of "Top Food Trends for 2009"(1) thanks in part to the soft economy, the social benefits of family dinnertime are more enduring reasons to share a meal. Beyond saving food dollars, a number of studies show family bonding at the dinner table has benefits for children -- time spent together can reduce drug use(2), lead to better nutrition(3), encourage confidence(4) and promote success in the classroom(5). (Yahoo! Wire -- Entertainment News)
Flower power in Japan Sep 1, 2009
The Democratic Party had pledged to change the postwar paradigm, promising to ease growing social inequality by handing more money and social benefits directly to consumers rather than to industry or other interest groups. It promised to raise the low birth rate by giving families cash hand-outs of 25,000 yen ($A322) a month per child, as well as help struggling farmers, raise the minimum wage and fix the nation's ailing pension system. (Sydney Morning Herald -- World)
Zimbabwe: Govt, SA Sign Labour Migration Agreement Aug 28, 2009
Minister Mdladlana said they were working on modalities that would see them getting full labour and social benefits. The minister said the two Sadc neighbours subscribed to the free movement of labour in the region. (allAfrica.com)
Madonna booed for defending Gypsies Aug 28, 2009
Many do not have official identification, which means they cannot get social benefits, are undereducated and struggle to find decent jobs. Roma children are more likely to drop out of school than their peers from other ethnic groups. (MSNBC -- News)
Our view: High cost, high pay-off Aug 28, 2009
For one well known preschool program, the Perry Program, the social benefits amounted to a rate of return per dollar spent estimated at 14 percent -- better than standard returns on the stock market, notes Heckman. DEMANDING PRESCHOOLS. (Anchorage Daily News)
Spruill: A National Policy for Our Crowded Ocean Aug 25, 2009
Marine Spatial Planning allows us to maximize the economic and social benefits provided by the ocean, while protecting our most fragile marine ecosystems. When implemented properly, Marine Spatial Planning provides comprehensive, proactive planning and long-term environmental conservation. (Roll Call)
My View: Late mayor would be proud of Serna Village progress, people Aug 24, 2009
With the 150th family graduating from the program later this year, simple math shows Serna's conviction that investments in human potential have financial as well as social benefits. I think he would have been pleased that this ambitious endeavor has succeeded in the least-likely of places: in the middle of a business park. (Sacramento Bee -- Opinion)
Benefits of Signing With Your Baby Aug 22, 2009
Some people are attracted to the learning benefits, others to the social benefits, and still others to the strong connection they could enjoy with their baby. Signing is so popular because it is easy to learn and easy to teach, although there are classes and products, none of them are necessary to enjoy increased communication with babies. (Suite101.com)
Southwest Montana Snapshots Aug 21, 2009
Organized by the Montana Mountain Bike Alliance, the festival emphasizes the link between continued access to bicycle trails and the economic and social benefits of bicycle tourism, according to a news release. The festival will include organized rides both days for all abilities. (Montana Standard, MT)
Top Article: The Future Is Here Aug 20, 2009
Each use has its own social benefits. Telecommuting offers savings in travel, congestion and pollution costs. (India Times, India)
Legislation restricting Internet access Aug 15, 2009
"Digital inclusion is a government policy and rightly so. People may not have broadband in every road, particularly in rural or isolated areas, and costs of a good connection remain high, so sharing internet access is recognised as a great way of filling in the gaps," said Mr Mac Sthigh, of Norwich Law School at UEA. "Shared internet access has potential social benefits, but it's harder to encourage people to take part if the legalities are unclear. Furthermore, local communities trying to use... (EurekAlert!)
No change after all Aug 9, 2009
In America, illegal crossers are enrolled in lifetime social benefits and furnished free lawyers. Americans can now look forward to dangerous political prisoners being brought here for their improved comfort. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
Living with the aftermath of war Aug 7, 2009
This week, Oxfam has launched a new programme that will help thousands of IDPs lobby the Georgian government to provide them with social benefits and provide them with opportunities to become economically self-sufficient once again. The government currently gives the settlement residents 25 laris (9; $15), cooking oil, pasta and wheat for baking bread every month. (BBC News -- Europe)
4 Arrested in U.S. Border Agent's Death Aug 3, 2009
Mexican Police Say Suspects Part of Immigrant Smuggling Ring; U.S. Police Search for Possible Accomplices. Police officers escort alleged smugglers (from left, Eugenio Quintero, Jose Camacho and Eubidio Quintero) during their presentation to the press in Tijuana, Saturday, July 25, 2009. (CBS News -- World)
Ecopetrol Announces Results for the Second Quarter and First Half of 2009 Aug 1, 2009
Unaudited Cash Flow Statement Ecopetrol S.A. Millions of Colombian Pesos 2Q-09 2Q-08 % 1Q-09 BEGINNING BALANCE 4905199 5114615 -4% 1870246 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Cash from Clients 6566615 7231803 -9% 4931556 Cash from Financial Interest 288492 365995 -21% 208144 Income from Reimbursements from FAEP and Other 0 0 0 0 Other Payments 0 0 0 0 Cash from Acquired Affiliates 0 0 0 0 Financial Interest Payments 0 -184 100% 0 Cash Paid to Suppliers and Contractors -5955380 -1362334 -337% -473100 Payments... (PR Newswire)
Ghana: Cancer Looms in Mining Community Jul 25, 2009
Mr. Patrick Heller, a facilitator and Legal Analyst of RWI, pointed out, "It's important for people at all levels of government, including local governments, to assess not just the financial benefits or costs but also the social benefits or costs of mining.". In his view, the ideal situation is to limit the social cost of mining and think about increasing the social benefits including developing the capacities of the people and putting the environment back in shape. (allAfrica.com)
Foreign Investors show interest in Boti-Falls. Jul 24, 2009
Mr Lamptey therefore urged all the landowners to come to a consensus so as not to drive the investors away whose intentions would create many jobs for the youth in the area and also attract social benefits for them. He indicated that the investors had chosen Boti following a briefing they had received from the Regional Minister, and added that they would work in collaboration with the Regional Coordinating Council to ensure that adequate compensation packages were paid for the utilization of the... (Ghana Web, Ghana)
Greensense: Ready to change your game? Jul 20, 2009
Bierbaum coauthored a report for the United Nations Foundation titled Confronting Climate Change where it was noted that the technology exists to seize significant opportunities around the globe to reduce emissions and provide other economic, environmental and social benefits. But to do so, policy makers must immediately act to reduce emissions by. (Reading Advocate, MA)
Why Japan Isn't Rising Jul 19, 2009
(Who is going to maintain the trains, pay for social benefits, slice sushi at the. The obvious answersencourage immigration and a higher birthratehave proved difficult, even impossible, for this conservative society. (Slate)
How to Save an Increasingly Crowded Ocean Jul 17, 2009
Marine Spatial Planning allows us to maximize the economic and social benefits provided by the ocean, while protecting our most fragile marine ecosystems. Just as on land, the ocean is also a diverse ecosystem. (CBS News)
South Africa: Taxpayers to Foot Strike Bill [editorial] Jul 17, 2009
Other conditions agreed to by the employers to end the strike included the extension of social benefits such as medical aid and pensions to all permanent employees. Significantly, there is nothing in the agreement preventing workers from downing tools again before the World Cup should another dispute arise, despite the employers' attempts to secure such a guarantee. (allAfrica.com)
South Africa: 2010 Construction Workers Strike Ends With Pay Rise Jul 16, 2009
"It's reasonable and Continued on page 2 Cup to boost recovery: page 4 acceptable. We are also happy with the contents of the agreement as we have achieved what we wanted. "There is nowhere in this agreement where it says we cannot embark on a strike in the future," Mathosa said. Employers acceded to the demand for construction workers to be paid during bad weather when work is affected. They also agreed that workers employed by contractors for more than 18 months would be eligible for social... (allAfrica.com)
Czech Premier Seeks Talks With Canada About Visas as Refugee Claims Rise Jul 15, 2009
The Czech Republic is the second-biggest source of claims for refugee status in Canada and has been calling on Canada to limit its generous social benefits for asylum seekers, the prime minister said. The new requirements are absolutely necessary to protect the integrity of our immigration system, Citizenship Minister said today in an interview with Canadian Broadcasting Corp. The EU has given no indication it will make Canadian visitors apply for a visa, he said. (Bloomberg -- Canada)
Ease burden on employers Jul 14, 2009
The marginal cost to society due to short-term revenue loss would be more than offset by higher economic and social benefits. Theodore A. Johnson, Stow. (Boston Globe -- Editorial)
Walk-N-Talk with the doc Jul 14, 2009
Johnson has attended the event four times and added that she's getting some social benefits from the walks, as well. "I've been meeting friends. Everyone is so great," she said. (Montana Standard, MT)
Salmon Creek coho may stage comeback (4) Jul 14, 2009
Seymour, who said coho spawners have also been released into Marin County s Walker Creek since 2003, added that the environmental, economic, and social benefits that could result from this release are promising. If we are successful in starting a new population in Salmon Creek it will support recovery efforts throughout the central California coastal evolutionary significant unit, Seymour said. (Sebastopol Sonoma West Publishing, CA)
Tai chi has another use: Gets runner going Jul 11, 2009
The fact that tai chi is inexpensive, convenient, enjoyable and conveys other psychological and social benefits supports the use of this type of intervention for pain conditions. Earlier this year, the Arthritis Foundation, which is headquartered in Atlanta, released a tai chi DVD for those who would rather practice at home than attend classes. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Metro)
Fresno gets respect for growth strategies Jul 9, 2009
First-year Mayor Ashley Swearengin, with the City Council, is continuing to emphasize the importance of supporting development that meets the "triple bottom line" of environmental, economic and social benefits. The short-term thinkers -- primarily developers who want to build fast and cheap -- aren't going away. (Fresno Bee)
Press Release: IMF Executive Board Approves US$1.57 Billion Stand-By Arrangement for Bosnia and Herzegovina Jul 9, 2009
Revenue performance weakened, while expenditure, driven by increases in wages and social benefits, rose sharply. As a result, the general government deficit widened to 4 percent of GDP from a near-balance in 2007. (IMF News)
Constitution Jul 5, 2009
Using various channels, the state creates conditions for employment, strengthens labour protection, improves working conditions and, on the basis of expanded production, increases remuneration for work and social benefits. Work is the glorious duty of every able-bodied citizen. (People's Daily Online, China)
Breaking barriers Jul 5, 2009
In Margara, Gharnik Kharibyan says it would have social benefits, too. "The border opening will help the two nations to become friends," she says. (BBC News)
Chips on shoulder or barking mad? City gone to dogs Jul 4, 2009
The Sydney Lord Mayor, Clover Moore, who has championed the social benefits of dog ownership, said the majority of feedback she had received since the designation of new off-leash parks in April last year had been positive. "We don't please everyone, but we do try and find solutions that are in keeping with everyone's benefit," she said. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
