The Monogamist

As a firm believer of monogamy, I consider infidelity the worst form of betrayal in a relationship. If problems are encountered or you become unhappy with your spouse, talk it through or simply end it, before indulging in sexual activities with another. However, I couldn’t help but wonder, is monogamy too much to expect from young couples in today’s society?

http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/09/male-monogamy-g.html

Smoking

As a nation we are continually reminded through television advertisements, news paper articles and posters that smoking cigarettes can seriously damage our health. As a non-smoker, I was in full favour of the smoking ban and now enjoy socialising in bars and restaurants without returning home in smoke-smelling clothing. I do however, believe that each individual has the right to decide for themselves whether they wish to smoke or not.

Smoking can be seductive, and can also complement the stereotypical ‘bad-boy’ image, an image that many women find attractive. While smoke is blown out of the mouth the attention is drawn to the lips, a bodily part connected with kissing and oral sex.

http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/smokehealth.htm

Prostitution

Prostitutes are viewed negatively by the majority of society, however, after much thought I began to see things from an altered perspective. If within a controlled and safe environment such as Amsterdam, can prostitution be seen as a justified business transaction? Prostitutes simply surrender their body for sex to receive cash in return, are they merely serving a purpose? If men are able to go out and pay for sex does that mean prostitution can help decrease the risk of innocent women being raped?

If a woman willingly accepts drinks from a man who clearly shows an attraction for her on a night out, but then fails to succumb to his sexual needs, should she be viewed in the same light as a prostitute or is she worse? Surely women guilty of leading men along are increasing their chances of being raped or physically assaulted? Some may argue that as the man has spent money on the woman, he has earned the right to sleep with her. I personally don’t agree, however, I do believe woman need to be cautious when accepting drinks off men, and think, is it really just a friendly chat their after?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/7257623.stm

Gossiping

Gossiping, a pleasurable pastime? Or simply a bad habit? We are all guilty of receiving some enjoyment when discussing another’s personal affairs. It comes at no surprise that those glossy tattletale magazines fly off the shelves weekly and the paparazzi earn big bucks for their (usually unflattering) snaps of A-list celebrities. Yet, I ask myself, why do we gossip? Is talking negatively about a friend, neighbour, or celebrity a way to boost our own self-esteem? If correct, could this imply we are all insecure individuals?
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/08/16/business/media/16adco.html