Societal Issues That Could Be Easily Resolved But Aren't
There are numerous societal issues that could be resolved quickly and easily with the right implementations. Yet, for various reasons, we often choose to do nothing, allowing these problems to persist. This article explores some of these issues, shedding light on why they haven't been addressed and how we might resolve them.
Unwanted Pregnancy
The availability of over the counter birth control pills, legal access to abortion services, and mandatory sex education could significantly reduce unwanted pregnancies. However, despite the overwhelming evidence of the benefits, these measures are often met with resistance.
Short Organ Supply
A shift from an opt-in system to an opt-out system for organ donation could substantially increase the organ supply, saving countless lives. Instead, countries often rely on a system where individuals must actively choose to donate, leading to a significant mismatch between supply and demand.
Arab-Israeli Conflict
The Arab-Israeli conflict could be resolved by simply mandating the settlement of Palestinians in Arab nations. While many populations have been successfully resettled in the past, this solution is rarely considered due to political complexities and ideological standpoints.
Blind Applications to Remove Bias
The implementation of blind application systems would eliminate unconscious biases in hiring and admissions processes. By anonymizing candidate information such as their appearance, gender, and background, these systems could lead to a more fair and equitable process. However, many organizations still opt for traditional methods, perpetuating existing biases.
International Auxiliary Language
The adoption of Esperanto as an international second language could enhance global communication and reduce the need for multiple translations. Instead, English and other dominant languages continue to dominate, creating barriers to international understanding and collaboration.
Birthright Citizenship
The removal of birthright citizenship in the Americas could significantly ease the migrant crisis by removing the incentive for women to illegally enter a country in hopes of citizenship. Despite the clear benefits, this issue remains contentious due to political and cultural factors.
Standardized Names and Spellings
A centralized name registry could help eliminate confusing and hard-to-spell names, making identification and communication simpler and more efficient. However, such a system would require significant resistance to change and political will, making it a challenging initiative to implement.
Turn Signals and Metric Units
The adoption of a standardized turn signal system (red or amber) and the transition to metric units could enhance safety and efficiency in transportation. Despite the clear advantages, traditional practices often prevail, leading to confusion and inefficiency.
Electric Vehicles and Roundabouts
The widespread adoption of electric vehicles and the use of roundabouts to reduce traffic congestion could bring numerous benefits. However, the reluctance to abandon conventional practices and invest in new technologies hinders these potential improvements.
Atomic Power and Super Sonic Flight
The implementation of atomic power for clean energy and the continuation of commercial super sonic flights could address significant environmental and transportation challenges. The failure to adopt these technologies is due in part to fear, regulatory hurdles, and political resistance.
Congressional Term Limits
The establishment of term limits for congresspersons could prevent the formation of despots and promote political diversity. However, the lack of political will to implement such limits has led to a more centralized and potentially despotic political system.
End of the Cuban Embargo and Fairness Doctrine
The lifting of the Cuban embargo and the reinstatement of the fairness doctrine in media could enhance international relations and ensure more balanced and ethical journalism. Despite ongoing calls for these changes, political obstacles persist.
Equal Rights Amendment and Non-Partisan Voting
The passing of the Equal Rights Amendment and the adoption of non-partisan ranked choice voting could promote gender equality and improve the democratic process, respectively. However, these measures have yet to gain sufficient traction in many societies.
Cigarette Litter and Car Crash Liability
The banning of filters from cigarettes and the requirement for dash cameras in all vehicles could reduce environmental litter and simplify traffic crash liability. Yet, these practical solutions are often overlooked due to industry influence and political apathy.
No Tipping and Supervised Safe Injection Areas
The elimination of tipping in certain service sectors and the creation of supervised injection areas could improve worker conditions and reduce opioid-related deaths. Despite the potential benefits, these changes are met with significant resistance.
Water Fluoridation and Mandatory Vaccines
The standardization of water fluoridation and the enforcement of mandatory vaccines could enhance dental health and public health outcomes. However, resistance from various stakeholders continues to delay these solutions.
Legal Sex Work and Legal Cannabis
The legalization of sex work and cannabis could provide safer working conditions and reduce the burden on the justice system. Despite growing support, these issues remain contentious and often lack the political will necessary for change.
Dvorak Keyboard, World Calendar, and Safer Electrical Outlets
The adoption of the Dvorak keyboard, the World Calendar, and UK-style electrical outlets and plugs could improve ergonomics and prevent accidents. However, resistance to change and the inertia of traditional practices hinder these improvements from being realized.
These issues represent just a fraction of the numerous societal challenges that could be addressed with relatively simple solutions. The failure to implement these changes often stems from a combination of political, cultural, and economic factors. By acknowledging these challenges and exploring potential solutions, we can work towards a more equitable and efficient society.