Research paper on Social determinants of health. Include abstract
Sample solution
Dante Alighieri played a critical role in the literature world through his poem Divine Comedy that was written in the 14th century. The poem contains Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The Inferno is a description of the nine circles of torment that are found on the earth. It depicts the realms of the people that have gone against the spiritual values and who, instead, have chosen bestial appetite, violence, or fraud and malice. The nine circles of hell are limbo, lust, gluttony, greed and wrath. Others are heresy, violence, fraud, and treachery. The purpose of this paper is to examine the Dante’s Inferno in the perspective of its portrayal of God’s image and the justification of hell.
In this epic poem, God is portrayed as a super being guilty of multiple weaknesses including being egotistic, unjust, and hypocritical. Dante, in this poem, depicts God as being more human than divine by challenging God’s omnipotence. Additionally, the manner in which Dante describes Hell is in full contradiction to the morals of God as written in the Bible. When god arranges Hell to flatter Himself, He commits egotism, a sin that is common among human beings (Cheney, 2016). The weakness is depicted in Limbo and on the Gate of Hell where, for instance, God sends those who do not worship Him to Hell. This implies that failure to worship Him is a sin.
God is also depicted as lacking justice in His actions thus removing the godly image. The injustice is portrayed by the manner in which the sodomites and opportunists are treated. The opportunists are subjected to banner chasing in their lives after death followed by being stung by insects and maggots. They are known to having done neither good nor bad during their lifetimes and, therefore, justice could have demanded that they be granted a neutral punishment having lived a neutral life. The sodomites are also punished unfairly by God when Brunetto Lattini is condemned to hell despite being a good leader (Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). While he commited sodomy, God chooses to ignore all the other good deeds that Brunetto did.
Finally, God is also portrayed as being hypocritical in His actions, a sin that further diminishes His godliness and makes Him more human. A case in point is when God condemns the sin of egotism and goes ahead to commit it repeatedly. Proverbs 29:23 states that “arrogance will bring your downfall, but if you are humble, you will be respected.” When Slattery condemns Dante’s human state as being weak, doubtful, and limited, he is proving God’s hypocrisy because He is also human (Verdicchio, 2015). The actions of God in Hell as portrayed by Dante are inconsistent with the Biblical literature. Both Dante and God are prone to making mistakes, something common among human beings thus making God more human.
To wrap it up, Dante portrays God is more human since He commits the same sins that humans commit: egotism, hypocrisy, and injustice. Hell is justified as being a destination for victims of the mistakes committed by God. The Hell is presented as being a totally different place as compared to what is written about it in the Bible. As a result, reading through the text gives an image of God who is prone to the very mistakes common to humans thus ripping Him off His lofty status of divine and, instead, making Him a mere human. Whether or not Dante did it intentionally is subject to debate but one thing is clear in the poem: the misconstrued notion of God is revealed to future generations.
References
Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). Dante’s inferno: Seven deadly sins in scientific publishing and how to avoid them. Addiction Science: A Guide for the Perplexed, 267.
Cheney, L. D. G. (2016). Illustrations for Dante’s Inferno: A Comparative Study of Sandro Botticelli, Giovanni Stradano, and Federico Zuccaro. Cultural and Religious Studies, 4(8), 487.
Verdicchio, M. (2015). Irony and Desire in Dante’s” Inferno” 27. Italica, 285-297.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Social Determinants of Health: The Impact on Population Well-being
Abstract
The concept of social determinants of health highlights the critical link between social and economic factors and an individual’s overall health outcomes. This research paper explores the various social determinants that influence health and well-being, including socioeconomic status, education, employment, housing, and access to healthcare. By examining the intricate interplay between these factors and health outcomes, this paper aims to shed light on the importance of addressing social determinants to improve population health and reduce health disparities. Through comprehensive research and analysis, this paper provides insights into how policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities can work together to create a more equitable and healthy society.
Keywords: social determinants of health, socioeconomic status, education, employment, housing, healthcare access
Introduction
The World Health Organization defines social determinants of health as the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age that impact their health outcomes. These determinants encompass a wide range of social and economic factors that influence an individual’s ability to lead a healthy life. By understanding and addressing these determinants, policymakers and healthcare providers can work towards creating a more equitable and just society where everyone has the opportunity to achieve optimal health. This research paper delves into the key social determinants of health and their impact on population well-being.
Social Determinants of Health
1. Socioeconomic Status
Socioeconomic status, including income and wealth, is a fundamental social determinant that significantly influences health outcomes. Individuals with higher socioeconomic status often have better access to healthcare, nutritious food, safe housing, and quality education, leading to better health outcomes. Disparities in socioeconomic status contribute to inequalities in health outcomes, with lower-income individuals facing higher rates of chronic diseases, mental health issues, and mortality.
2. Education
Education plays a crucial role in determining an individual’s health and well-being. Higher levels of education are associated with better health outcomes, as education provides individuals with knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their health. Education also influences employment opportunities, income levels, and access to healthcare, all of which impact overall health.
3. Employment
Employment status and working conditions are significant social determinants of health. Stable employment with fair wages and benefits can promote good health by providing financial security, access to healthcare services, and opportunities for personal development. Conversely, unemployment, underemployment, and precarious work can lead to stress, financial insecurity, and poor health outcomes.
4. Housing
The quality of housing and living conditions has a direct impact on health outcomes. Adequate housing that is safe, affordable, and free from environmental hazards is essential for maintaining good health. Poor housing conditions, such as overcrowding, lack of sanitation, and exposure to pollutants, can increase the risk of infectious diseases, respiratory problems, and mental health issues.
5. Healthcare Access
Access to healthcare services is a critical social determinant that influences health outcomes. Individuals who face barriers to healthcare access, such as lack of insurance, high costs, limited transportation, or discrimination, are more likely to experience poor health outcomes. Improving healthcare access through policies that expand coverage, reduce costs, and address disparities is essential for promoting population health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, social determinants of health play a crucial role in shaping the health outcomes of individuals and populations. Addressing these determinants requires a comprehensive approach that involves collaboration among policymakers, healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals. By focusing on improving socioeconomic status, education, employment opportunities, housing conditions, and healthcare access for all members of society, we can create a more equitable and healthy environment where everyone has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life. It is imperative for stakeholders at all levels to prioritize addressing social determinants of health to reduce disparities and promote well-being for all.
