Lithium in Many Ways, One

Lithium

In many ways, one is at times plagued by a vague sense that the conspiracy theorists might be correct. The government and the rich seem to rule the world and make the rules and laws as they go along. In this process, they seem to have very little regard for the public opinion or for the plight of those whose lives and livelihoods are in their hands. Increasingly, one is personally plagued by a sense that those in power care about little else but their lavish lifestyles at the cost of those they are elected to lead and protect. The same sense of such an attitude appears in the article by Huff (2011), in which the author cites the opinion of Dr. Allan Young, that Lithium in the nation's drinking water is a viable solution for crime, suicide, and even social awkwardness.

The article provides compelling food for thought, although there are a few facts that I would have liked to see the author consider. He seems very focused, for example, on the evils of adding lithium to water. Admittedly, this is hard to argue with. However, this is the only "expert" opinion he considers. The article creates fear, since there are no other expert opinions to either refute or confirm Dr. Young's opinions about Lithium. Instead, there is only the good doctor's confirmation that Americans might be easily convinced of such an idea.

In addition, the author makes no reference to the government and whether the proposed addition of lithium to drinking water is in any way considered as a policy. Indeed, when thinking critically about it, there is very little in the article to suggest that adding this substance to water is in any way a real concern. In fact, the article seems very focused on sensationalizing the issue while being based only on one interview with one very possibly misguided individual.

My main question is whether there is any potential government action on the issue, and also whether other experts have been consulted regarding this. I must admit, however, that the article at first glance fed on my own sense of government conspiracy.

Core skills in the workplace refer to a set of general skills that people need to function effectively in their work. These are not specific to the type of work being performed, but rather refer to the types of attitudes and habits workers need to function to the best of their ability and in the best interest of the company. The seven skills include: working productively, learning effectively, communicating clearly, working cooperatively, acting responsibly, valuing self positively, and thinking critically and creatively. All these skills concern the individual in relationship to him- or herself, to his or her coworkers, and to the work that is being performed.

Working productively, for example, means that effective work habits and attitudes are used to produce work on a highly effective level of quality and quantity. A person who learns effectively will possess skills in reading, writing, and computing, be able to learn new skills in these areas, and apply them to his or her duties. Both clear communication and cooperative working concerns the relationship of the individual with his or her coworkers. For these relationships to work well, there must be good communication among individuals. In the work relationship, all persons must take responsibility for the ethics of their actions. Critical and creative thinking is vital in order to help a person be valued as an employee and coworker, while valuing the self positively by means of attention to one's physical and psychological wellness will also create a platform for better work performance.