Author: Parnian Esmaeilishayeh

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

In 2021, Nova Scotia implemented an opt-out system for organ donation. This means that unless an individual opts out, they are an organ donor (“Request to opt out of organ and tissue donation”). Many other provinces in Canada are considering whether this system is ethical. In 2020, 276 people died waiting for organ transplants (Canadian Blood Services). Upon implementing an opt-out system, organs will become less scarce and more lives will be saved. Mandatory organ donation increases the availability of organs by raising awareness of the significance of organ donations, making it easier to become an organ donor, and normalizing organ donation.  read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

Many are unaware of the capabilities of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is “the study and manipulation of matter at the atomic and molecular level—specifically, matter that’s 1 to 100 nanometres in size” (Government of Canada). Nanotechnology was invented in 1959 by Richard Feynman; he described it as having the ability to “arrange atoms one by one, just as we want them” (“Richard Feynman: There’s plenty of room at the bottom’, Nanotechnology lecture – 1959 — Speakola”). The potential of nanotechnology is leading to revolutionary breakthroughs in many fields, one of which is global warming. Nanotechnology can remove greenhouse emissions and decrease dependence on fossil fuels, though there are doubts regarding its effectiveness due to its high costs, health risks, and environmental concerns. read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

The primary point of incarceration is to rehabilitate individuals and help them reflect and recover from past mistakes. The justice system is to offer fair judgement to ensure that upon return from imprisonment, prisoners are “transformed”. However, we contradict this concept by limiting those who underwent such rehabilitation treatment and rejecting them, even though by law they are no longer considered criminals. If the core value of incarceration is to guide those who have made mistakes to become beneficial citizens, then why are they facing lifelong barriers that prevent them from truly getting a second chance? Formerly imprisoned individuals face limitations with employment, housing, and education, making their lives harder instead of providing new beginnings.  read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

Research is a fundamental factor in academic society. It allows society to progress, leading to discoveries in many industries. However, it is arguable whether the primary purpose of research is to resolve practical problems or to contribute to human knowledge. Resolving practical problems includes developing vaccines, enhancing cybersecurity, or providing better food preservation and distribution methods. On the other hand, the contribution to human knowledge would be the development of scientific theories, like quantum theory, the theory of evolution, and many more. However, all research, even those that contribute to human knowledge, leads to advancements toward solving practical problems, as seen in the medical, technology, and astronomy fields.  read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

Due to fast fashion, H&M, Zara, Forever 21, Shein, Urban Outfitters, and many more have become multi-million brands. The fashion industry has expanded tremendously over the years. Although many of these developments were positive, there has also been an expansion in fast fashion, which is appalling. Fast fashion is the leading cause of climate change, water pollution, and harm to aquatic life.  read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

In 2024, on average, 57.2% of youth aged 15 to 24 in Canada were employed (Spiteri and Adkins). This creates a concern about whether students having part-time jobs is beneficial or distracting. Part-time jobs bring a lot of new challenges, responsibilities, and stress. However, they also come with many benefits that outweigh the cons. Having a part-time job allows students to learn about the real world, network, and earn money.  read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

After fighting for democracy, voting became a fundamental aspect to the functioning of society and government. However, in the Canadian federal election of 2021, only about 62.5% of eligible voters voted (Elections Canada). This percentage declines every election period. The lack of votes creates an issue as the elections do not truly represent the value of the majority, as the majority do not vote. Mandatory voting would resolve the decline in votes, ensuring fair representation, strengthening democracy, and increasing government accountability. read more

 Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

We all want control over our health and body, especially when it comes to making decisions. Informed consent refers to the process in which a healthcare provider informs patients about a procedure and its potential risks, allowing them to decide whether to consent to or refuse the treatment. This is essential as it allows the patient to have autonomy regarding decisions, particularly ones as impactful as medical treatment. Although informed consent is a fundamental right, challenges like emergency situations, psychological barriers, or low comprehension of patients can make it impractical and life-threatening.  read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

The addition of Indigenous studies in the academic curriculums marked a crucial step toward reconciliation and raising awareness.  read more

Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER

Your favourite historical movie might be lying to you — but how far does the fiction go?  read more