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While it is true that the human nature represents a compilation of feelings, thoughts and characteristics all humans share, it is equally correct that accurately defining all of the above has been the oldest and most crucial quest of the Western philosophy. Even though thinkers have provided various answers to these fundamental questions, one thing remains constant, namely that human nature primes over the sum of norms established in different cultures and societies.

Interestingly enough, instead of going hand in hand, the social norms and our way of being are conflicting quite often. In fact, it is safe to state that at one point or another in your life you will come to agree with Alexander Woolcott’s famous quote “all the things I really like to do are either immoral, illegal or fattening”. In the following article we will explore the most common misconceptions about human nature people believe today.

1. The eternal fascination with the “Barbie look”

The appeal of the long, beautiful hair, blue eyes, a wasp waist and big breasts has not really emerged with Marilyn Monroe and in fact, it dates from approximately two millennia ago. The answer to this one is actually quite simply: women who boast these characteristics are perceived as younger, healthier and hence, they promote reproduction and the survival of the specie. However, ironically these things are not applicable in the modern society, where wigs, contact lens and the magic of cosmetic surgery is all it takes to reach the ideal female beauty.

2. We’re genetically programmed for polygamy

According to anthropologists, the simple fact that men are taller than women is a criterion that proves humans are essentially programmed for polygamy. Essentially, the male fitness factor plays a great role in finding more mating opportunities. Furthermore, a tall and strong man gives women a sense of financial and social security, sometimes to the point where women prefer to share the wealth of a single man than mate with a poor one. While in certain parts of the globe polygamy is still practiced, in Western society and industrialized countries this no longer applies because for modern man wealth is more consistent across the board, at least by comparison with their ancestors.

3. Couples who have at least one son are less likely to end up in divorce

In spite of the fact that the modern world promotes gender equality, apparently the men’s instinct to do anything in their power to ensure the continuation of the wealth, name and status is still lingering in the subconscious. While all the things a man has to offer can be inherited by his son, there is very little he can do to maintain his daughter’s beauty and youthfulness. It is true that this behavior is mostly noticeable in affluent families, but sociologists suggest that statistically couples who have sons are less likely to end up in divorce.

4. The middle-life crisis

Some call the middle-life crisis a myth and others are living it, or they think they do especially since they invested all their savings in a brand new car and a luxury home near the beach. This occurrence is linked to women reaching menopause. To put it simply, when the husband realizes that the reproduction cycle of his wife is close to an end, his anxiety levels will go through the roof and he will start spending a lot of cash in a subconscious attempt to attract younger women.

5. Male politicians are prone to risk everything for an affair

Granted, in the Western civilization monogamy reigned supreme, especially in times when the Roman Catholic Church held most of the power. On the other hand, that didn’t stop any wealthy man with a high status from having concubines, mistresses or female slaves for that matter. If you are curious as to why a male politician would risk it all, the answer might surprise you: some men strive for more power in order to expand their mating options.

Have you thought about being friendlier to the environment lately? If so, focusing on how to go Green around the home this fall is a great place to start. After all with the end-of-summer-clean-up and preparation for winter there’s a lot more than just recycling on the agenda.

For example, better home efficiency and conservation are two of the most important considerations prior to the winter, especially when it comes to utilities.

That being the case, the following are the top 10 ways to go green around the home this fall. Go! Be Green! Make it happen!

1. Manual yard tools:

The final yard clean up of the season can sometimes be daunting but don’t let it get to you. Substitute electric or gas powered tools such as lawn mowers and weed whackers for manual versions. These include reel mowers or hand cutters. Less electricity usage means fewer emissions from power companies and not burning gasoline prevents localized fumes and spills that pollute the ground.

2. Compost yard clippings:

Once everything has been cut back, trimmed, and sheared you’ll likely have several piles of grass clippings, tree branches, and other yard debris to dispose of. In past years you may have sent it to a landfill or even tossed it in the garbage but one of the greenest things you could possibly do is dump it in a compost pile or convert thicker bark into mulch.

3. Wash garden containers:

Think back to last spring when the garden was planted. Remember those containers seedlings were grown in or transplanted into before they were put into the ground? If any show up during the yard clean up or were stuffed away in the garage collect and wash them out so they can be used next spring.

4. Seal drafts:

As the weather begins to change and cool air moves in drafts around windows and doors need to be sealed. Otherwise frigid air will slowly infiltrate causing your heating system to work harder. That’s because whether it’s a furnace, electric heater, or some other device maintaining a set temperature while competing with drafts means higher utility bills and more pollution. The bottom line: sealing drafts is one of the top Green acts of autumn.

5. Insulate:

Besides drafts one of the main reasons why heating systems may never live up to their potential is because of thin walls. Insulating the outer walls of your home will be most effective at keeping the heat in.

Besides termites, mold is the second worst issues a homeowner will be confronted with. While easy to deal with when the damaging spores are present in small amounts, ignoring mold can quickly escalate and endanger your health. In fact, certain types of mold are extremely dangerous, since once the spores are inhaled, they take the quickest route to the lungs and can prove lethal to people with allergies as well as little children.

Perhaps the scariest thing about mold formations is the fact that the spores can get in your home even via very small gaps and start growing on clothes, shoes, toys and sometimes even on pets. Therefore, if you noticed a mold formation in your home, take action immediately and eliminate them using the keeping the following tips in mind.

1. Maintain your home clutter free

Organizing your stuff and keeping your personal effects in order does not only have an aesthetic value, but it also represents a good way to ensure an optimal air circulation in your home. For optimal airflow indoors, it is highly advisable that you arrange your furniture and drapes in a manner that does not block supply grilles and the HVAC system: if these air paths are blocked, then you will have condensation issues. As you probably know, moisture constitutes the perfect environment for mold and mildew growths.

2. Keep control over the indoor climate

According to numerous homeowners, the time of the year when you are most likely to deal with mold growths are hot summers, particularly because you constantly need to adjust and play around with the air conditioning unit. It is necessary to mention that this is a serious problem for homeowners who don’t own a thermostat and change the indoor temperature according to the time of the day. Because setting the temperature too highly mean improper dehumidification, while setting it too low causes condensation, the best approach is to get a thermostat and set the temperature indoors for 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. When the AC is on, the doors and windows should be closed

If you are keeping your doors and windows opened while the AC unit is on, then you are not only wasting money for nothing, but you also risk creating condensation and damp areas where mold thrives. Therefore, you have to decide on whether you can get comfortable by creating a venting tunnel in your home using the doors and windows or keep everything shut and turn the AC unit on.

4. Purchase a dehumidifier

In the eventuality that you live in a geographical area with hot, humid summers and warm, gentle winters, then it is imperious to purchase a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth in your home. In general, for this type of areas, the best approach is to opt for a whole house dehumidifier since you cannot be 100% certain about the areas where condensation forms. However, if you only deal with bouts of water occasionally in certain parts of the house, then a portable unit would work just as well.

5. The ventilation system

If you have had issues with mold and mildew growths in the past, then that represents a clear sign that you need a ventilation system. It is important to note that a good ventilation system is one able to transport the air outdoors and not to the attic of your home. In addition, you should analyze your ventilation solution on a regular basis, especially in the rooms exposed to moisture (bathroom and kitchen) to make sure that the device is working properly.

Valentine’s Day is around the corner. Do not make the same mistakes over and over again. Prevent the following: going to a party and spending time with loved ones.

1. Working:

This is the worst case scenario. Try to clear your schedule for this special day, especially during the evening. This is a special day for couples. Nothing should stay in the way.

2. Friend’s parents’ house:

One boyfriend took his girlfriend to his friend’s parents’ apartment for a night together. The parents had a cat. The girlfriend was also allergic to the cat. The poor girl was all swollen throughout the evening.

3. Fast Food:

This has happened before, especially for those who are on a budget and first time dating. Do not go on dates for coffee or fast food restaurants on Valentine’s Day. Find something classy and do something more inventive and out of the ordinary.

4. Puking:

If you cannot cook, do not try to cook on Valentine’s Day. One of my friends cooked up a great meal. He was so excited to surprise his girlfriend. His stomach at the end of the night gave him an even bigger surprise due to salmonella.

5. At the movie:

A friend of mine who is not dating has a tradition of going to the movies on Christmas Eve and Valentine’s Day. You would not find a love there. If you do not have any plans, choose a party you could join.

On Chanukah, the Jewish people light Chanukah candles to remember the Maccabee victory and how the oil burnt for eight days in the holy Temple. This article examines 10 ways people celebrate the holiday in today’s society.

1. Light the Menorah:

Everyone is allowed to light the menorah. It should be lit outside the doorway and at the window after nightfall. You light the middle candle first and begin with the candles on the far right.

2. Games (Dreidel):

Kids enjoy playing games on Chanukah, especially with the dreidel (a top). Each side has acronyms which stand for Nes Gadol Haya Sham which means “A great miracle happened there.”

3. Chanukah Gelt:

Nothing beats Chanukah then Chanukah gelt. Many kids get candy, gifts and even money. It’s one holiday many kids look forward to.

4. Cooking:

Everything cooked should be done in oil. Latkes and donuts are the most popular. You cannot miss eating them. You would not be in the Chanukah spirit otherwise.

5. Crafts/Decorations:

Making crafts are also popular on the holiday. Decorating the home and creating the different crafts will bring up spirits. Kids particularly enjoy making gelt bags which are like stockings during Christmas.

Beer, the nectar of the gods is a drink enjoyed by many. No matter what language you may speak or what part of the world you live in, it translates perfectly; in fact, if beer was a language, it would be default.

With beer becoming ever more popular and with people becoming more inventive, the days of drinking a beer out of a standard pint glass will soon be obsolete. Sure, after a hard day’s work, a cold bottle of beer while relaxing watching TV goes down a treat, but every now and then the party hat goes on and sipping a beer out of a can just isn’t cool enough.

1.The Chug

The classic chug! Out of all beer drinking techniques, the plain chug is probably the most common; the reason being the equipment needed. As long as you have a beer in hand (the guy above is going to the extreme) and a friend then you can both participate. The aim of the game is to try and down your beer in one go, straight from the bottle/can/glass.

2.Yard of Ale

A yard of ale – also known as a yard glass – is a glass that holds 2.5 pints and yes you guess it, the glass is 1 yard long. The idea is to challenge someone to see how long it takes them to drink the full yard, but with 2.5 pints, that’s easier said than done. A guy did get into the Guinness Book of Records with a time of 5 seconds…the machine!

3. Das Boot

If you have ever seen the movie, Beerfest, then you will know exactly what Das Boot is! Think of it as a modified Yard of Ale glass with less beer. You will be surprised to hear that the translation is actually “The Boat.”

4. The Beer Hat

The Beer Hat: The lazy man’s way to drink a cold one! Why hold a beer when you don’t have to? In fact, why hold just the one, why not two? If you have ever asked yourself these questions then the Beer Hat is for you. Although the practicality of them with you often spilling beer if not careful isn’t the best, the amazement factor of wearing one is well worth it.

5.Flip Cup

Think Beer Pong is overrated? Then Flip Cup is for you. Considered one of the Mother of all drinking games, Flip Cup is a simple drinking games that gets everyone playing and everyone drinking. As long as you are able to flip a cup from the edge of the table then you will be fine.

Like many coffee shops around North America, Tim Hortons has seen a number of changes throughout the years. 10 things on this list is a comparison of how the company has changed since 2000.

1. Frozen items:

Almost all items come frozen at Tim Hortons. They are not fully cooked when they are delivered to Tim Hortons stores. Stores use conventional and always fresh ovens to finish the baking and cooking process.

2. Breakfasts:

About 6 years ago, Tim Hortons introduced a breakfast program to compete with McDonald’s and other chains which were already serving breakfast sandwiches. Before the introduction of breakfast sandwiches, customers only could choose from bagels and egg salad sandwiches.

3. Pre-cut bread:

Breads have also changed within the last few years. Tim Hortons staff no longer have to cut the bread. The items come frozen and precut. The breads are not fully cooked until they are placed in an always fresh oven.

4. Cups sizes:

In January of 2012, the cup sizes changed. Tim Hortons no longer uses the small, medium, large and extra-large model. They now have the extra small, small, medium, large and extra-large cups. Their XL is the biggest cup on the retail market.

5. No Cakes:

Previously Tim Hortons sold cakes and other items which were not their originals (i.e. eclairs, coffee cakes). Most stores have eliminated this and have focused their attention on donuts, cookies, muffins, croissants & danishes.

While the backbone of any successful sobriety program may necessarily rest on formal protocols such as attending support group meetings and reading recommended recovery literature, there are many other practices that can help a recovering addict maintain sobriety. This is where staying sober with an inspirational reading list, enjoying hobbies with like-minded sober souls, and other activities can help you maintain your sobriety.

1. Build Your Inspirational Reading List

In your personal sobriety maintenance program, the first order of business should be to marshal control of your own mind. Often, an addict’s primary enemy is not the addiction but the thoughts in his mind. If you do not give your mind something to do, rest assured that it has every intention of finding occupation for itself.

2. Rediscover Favorite Hobbies

Before you started drinking and using, you occupied your time with something else. What was it? The “getting sober” process is just a short period in any addict’s life, but the “staying sober” process lasts a lifetime. Staying sober is not necessarily about staying sober. Rather, it is about building a life where drinking or using is no longer needed, wanted, or even considered.

3. Get Involved with Service

Research indicates twice as many addicts achieve sustained sobriety when they are involved with serving others. While much of this research does focus on service as outlined in twelve step recovery communities, the simple truth is that any kind of service is better than no service. Service to others gives you a means to say “thank you” to those who supported you.

4. Do Something Physical

Physical exercise not only makes the body feel better, but it is harder to achieve after you have been drinking or using. If you rediscover pleasure in swimming, jogging, hiking, birding, or other physical pursuits, you will soon notice if you relapse, you have a harder time doing these things. So doing something physical can help create a situation where your body partners with you to resist breaking your sobriety.

5. Take a Class

Learning not only engages your active mind, but it reminds you that you are smart and can learn new things – including and beyond sobriety – at any time. You can also meet new people, hear their stories, and enjoy together the process of starting something from scratch. Whether you view taking a class as a recovery metaphor or a simple act of discovering something new, there is no doubt it is beneficial.

A dark secret is prevailing over Hollywood. Corey Feldman, Alison Arngrim and Miley Crus have all stepped up to reveal the secret. Revelations have revealed child sex abuse cases in Hollywood. Police are cracking down on the pedophiles. For actors like Corey Feldman, this is barely scratching the surface. In the 1980s, 90s, 2000s and still today, pedophiles surround child stars and force them into sexual acts in return for fame. This article intends to reveal the list of the notorious ones.

1. Victor Salva:

This man is a Hollywood Director, best known for his film Jeepers Creepers. In 1988, he made a movie starring a 12 year old boy. At the end of the film, he traded the boy’s fame for oral sex. He was charged for his crimes and served time in jail for 15 months. Now he is back on the streets directing new films.

2. Roman Polanski:

This Oscar winning director of the Pianist faced extradition charges to the United States for fleeing the country pending sex charges. He was found guilty of rape involving a 13 year old girl. The man fled to France shortly after being found guilty in 1978 and has been evading the law ever since. In 2009, he was arrested in Switzerland and faced deportation. Sadly, they freed him, refusing to honour the US’s wishes to extradite him.

3. Jay-Z:

Yes one big shocker it is. This rapper has also been accused of being a pedophile. Judiciary Report stipulated that the rapper has a history of misogyny, assault and financial fraud. He allegedly began his own record label with drug money. Rumours went out of control once he signed a 17 year old, Rihanna. Reports have shown the two having candle light dinners in New York and spending alone time for hours a day.

4. R Kelly:

The R&B singer, R Kelly was charged with possessing child pornography. He also filmed himself having sex with a girl who was as young as 13 year at the time. This was right after he handed the girl the cash to have sex with him. Despite the trial (where he was found not guilt), people still do follow his music. He even recently sang at Whitney Houston’s funeral.

5. Gabriel Williams:

A former scientology supervisor in Hollywood was also convicted of being a pedophile. In 2005, a staffer at the scientology cult discussed how she was sexually assaulted 100 times between the age of 16 and 17 by Williams, who she was forced to live with. The woman sued Williams and received a large settlement. This is despite the fact that the church has not yet admitted to any wrongdoing.

Planning a grand event in a professional manner is indeed difficult. You need to take care of a lot of things and also ensure that everything has fallen in the right place. Moreover, if it becomes mandatory to include or receive celebrities in your organized event, your shoulders might get overburdened with responsibilities. So, why take so much pain when there is a superb solution?

Well, you can always hand over this massive job to a professional event planner who can execute this mammoth task with sheer perfection. However, the most important thing is to choose someone who can lend elegance and sophistication to your show and that too without committing a single error.

So, here are 10 best tips which will surely help you choose an efficient event planner with confidence:

1. Do extensive researches

The best way to look for a professional event planner is to keep browsing through the web. You will come across a lot of sites giving details on event planners. Know everything about the deals they offer as well as the rates they charge. This will help you compare, and thereafter you can judge who the best is.

2. Read testimonials

Through testimonials posted in the websites, you will get to know how well an event planner has managed to keep up to their clients’ expectations.

3. Ask questions

A professional event planner will never hesitate or express unwillingness in answering your questions. Rather, he will take pleasure in coming forward to help you organize your event.

4. Take suggestions

A good and reliable event planner will not only respond to all your queries but will come up with suggestions and ideas that can lend a sizzling look to your show.

5. Authenticate verbally

Before hiring a professional event organizer, get to know everything about his service record. You must be aware of the types of events he usually arranges. Do not hesitate to make him produce his work samples and testimonials if required.