Research Topics And Explanation 2

Research Topics and Explanation 2 Research Topics with Explanation LaRhonda Roney Dr. Mary Rose Kasraie

Research Topics and Explanation 2 Research Topics with Explanation LaRhonda Roney Dr. Mary Rose Kasraie English 215 July 13, 2015

Topic 1: Should Transportation Security Regulations Be Changed?

The primary motivation for selecting this topic is the critical importance of ensuring the safety of travelers, especially during air travel. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continually updates and enforces security regulations, but technological advancements and emerging threats necessitate ongoing reassessment of these policies. The safety of millions of passengers annually hinges on effective security measures, and there is a constant need to adapt these regulations in response to evolving risks (George & Whatford, 2007). The target audience encompasses both the general public and senior TSA officials responsible for policy formulation and implementation. Educating and persuading policymakers to update security protocols can lead to enhanced safety standards, ultimately benefiting everyone involved in transportation (Schweinsberg, 2008). The central argument is that TSA regulations require revision to incorporate recent technological innovations and lessons learned from past security incidents.

Topic 2: Should funding for the U.S. Space Program be changed?

This topic was chosen due to the intrinsic value of space exploration in advancing scientific knowledge and technological progress. Understanding space and our universe is fundamental to human curiosity and can lead to numerous technological innovations that benefit society as a whole (Oberg, 2007). The ongoing investments in space exploration have resulted in significant scientific and economic gains, yet debates persist about the appropriate level of funding. The primary audience includes government officials and sponsors dedicated to fostering advancements beyond Earth's atmosphere. Advocates argue that increased investment is essential for maintaining U.S. leadership in space technology, facilitating scientific breakthroughs, and inspiring innovation (Tatarewicz, 2009). The thesis posits that continued and increased federal funding is crucial for sustaining the progress and benefits derived from space exploration initiatives.

Topic 3: Should taxes on alcohol and tobacco be increased to help pay for rising medical costs?

The motivation behind this topic stems from the rising costs associated with medical treatment related to alcohol and cigarette consumption. These substances contribute significantly to health-related issues such as chronic diseases, cancers, and accidents, which place a heavy financial burden on government healthcare systems (Baum, 2009). Increasing taxes on alcohol and tobacco products has been proposed as a means to both deter consumption and fund public health programs. The targeted audience comprises policymakers at the state and federal levels who have the authority to enact such tax legislation. The central argument is that higher taxes could reduce consumption and generate revenue to offset the increasing medical expenses caused by alcohol and tobacco-related health issues (Griffin, Botvin, & Doyle, 2010).

Paper For Above instruction

Transportation security is an indispensable element in safeguarding travelers and maintaining public confidence in the transportation infrastructure. Since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the TSA has implemented various security protocols meant to prevent future threats. However, the landscape of security threats continuously evolves due to technological advancements and changing tactics by malicious actors. Consequently, it is imperative to periodically evaluate and revise security regulations to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the current threat environment (George & Whatford, 2007). The public's safety, as well as the operational efficiency of transportation systems, depends on balancing security measures with the convenience of travelers. Modern security technologies, such as biometric screening and advanced scanning systems, have the potential to increase safety without significantly impeding travel efficiency. Nevertheless, updating regulations to incorporate such innovations is crucial to address gaps and respond to new vulnerabilities (Schweinsberg, 2008). For instance, screening procedures can be enhanced using data sharing across agencies and improving threat detection algorithms, which requires policy adaptations and regulatory flexibility.

In addition to technological updates, regulatory adjustments are necessary to respond to intelligence reports indicating new threat patterns. Continuous training of security personnel and public awareness campaigns contribute to a layered security approach that adapts to evolving challenges. Policymakers must consider both the effectiveness and the privacy implications of security measures to maintain public trust and compliance. As international travel is interconnected, harmonizing security standards with global partners can enhance efficacy and facilitate smoother transit experiences (George & Whatford, 2007). Ultimately, comprehensive revision of TSA regulations, informed by current technological capabilities and threat intelligence, can significantly bolster transportation security.

Turning to space exploration, the significance of continued investment in the U.S. space program cannot be overstated. Space exploration has advanced scientific understanding by providing insights into planetary systems, cosmic phenomena, and Earth's environment. These explorations have also driven technological innovations, such as satellite communications, GPS, weather forecasting, and materials science, that permeate everyday life (Oberg, 2007). Maintaining and increasing federal funding for space initiatives is essential for the United States to preserve its leadership in space technology and science. Such investments stimulate economic growth by fostering industry partnerships, encouraging innovation, and creating high-tech jobs (Tatarewicz, 2009). Additionally, space exploration serves strategic national interests, providing critical capabilities in national security, global positioning systems, and environmental monitoring. Advocates argue that a robust space program encourages scientific discovery, inspires future generations, and provides technological spin-offs with broad societal benefits.

Furthermore, increased funding can accelerate exploration missions, such as returning humans to the Moon, sending spacecraft to Mars, and exploring asteroids and other celestial bodies. These missions can unlock resources, enable scientific research, and demonstrate technological prowess vital for future deep-space endeavors. It is particularly crucial in an era of rapid technological change and geopolitical competition, where leadership in space equates to strategic advantage. To sustain the nation’s position at the forefront of space technology, a committed and possibly increased financial investment is necessary (Oberg, 2007). This would involve not only government expenditure but also fostering partnerships with private industry and international allies, ensuring long-term sustainability and innovation in space endeavors.

Addressing the social health impacts, the taxation of alcohol and tobacco products presents a practical policy approach for mitigating health-related expenditures. Both substances are linked to severe health issues, including cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and accidents, which impose enormous costs on government healthcare systems (Baum, 2009). The rising burden of treatment expenses makes it necessary to explore solutions that can reduce consumption while generating revenue for public health programs. Increasing taxes on these products has been demonstrated to decrease their usage, especially among youth and low-income populations. The revenue generated from higher taxes can be allocated directly to fund prevention programs, early intervention, and treatment services for affected populations, thereby alleviating the financial strain on healthcare systems (Griffin, Botvin, & Doyle, 2010).

Moreover, tax increases serve a dual purpose: they act as deterrents and generate resources aimed at public health improvement. Countries and states that have implemented higher taxes report declines in consumption and associated health issues. Policymakers must consider socio-economic implications; while higher taxes can be regressive, their health benefits and cost savings often outweigh such concerns. Clear evidence indicates that such fiscal measures can effectively reduce the incidence of alcohol and tobacco-related diseases, ultimately helping to contain the soaring medical costs (Baum, 2009). As health costs continue to escalate in the face of demographic aging and increasing chronic diseases, policy interventions like tax adjustments remain vital tools in the public health arsenal (Griffin, Botvin, & Doyle, 2010). In conclusion, raising taxes on harmful substances such as alcohol and tobacco is a feasible and evidence-based strategy to offset rising medical expenses and promote healthier behaviors among populations.

References

• Baum, C. L. (2009). The effects of cigarette costs on BMI and obesity. Health Economics. https://doi.org/10.1002/hec.1340
• George, B., & Whatford, N. (2007). Regulation of Transport Security Post 9/11. Security Journal. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.sj
• Griffin, K. W., Botvin, G. J., & Doyle, M. M. (2010). A Six-Year Follow-Up Study of Determinants of Heavy Cigarette Smoking Among High-School Seniors. Journal of Behavioral Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:{some_code}
• Oberg, J. (2007). Lost in Space [A review of ISScapades: The Crippling of America's Space Program (Beattie, D.A.)]. IEEE Spectrum. https://doi.org/10.1109/MSPEC.2007.
• Schweinsberg, R. (2008). Achieving Europe-wide safety through technical harmonization. Safety Science. https://doi.org/10.1007/_1
• Tatarewicz, J. N. (2009). The “Vision for Space Exploration” of President George W. Bush, space science, and U.S. space policy. Futures. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.futures.2009.04.019