Throughout history, human societies have struggled with significant challenges that have shaped their development. In old times, epidemics and diseases caused the greatest threats. Due to medical advancement, we no longer have to suffer from these threats. Today, economic issues such as inflation create considerable difficulties. In the future, the potential for global conflict involving nuclear weapons pose a deadly threat to international security. I will explore these pivotal issues: the historical impact of diseases, the current economic struggles, and the future threat of nuclear warfare.
In ancient times, diseases were catastrophic. When a disease appeared, it could wipe out entire cities, towns, countries, or even continents, leaving only dead bodies in its wake. Epidemics like the Black Plague, Spanish Flu, and smallpox were the biggest crises for people back then. During the Black Plague, about 25 million people died across Europe. Doctors wore plague doctor masks, which had goggles and a big beak in front, believing these masks would protect them from the disease. The plague originated from rats, specifically the oriental rat fleas that carried the virus, which spread through rat populations and subsequently to humans. Smallpox existed for at least 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest known diseases.
The origin of smallpox is unknown, but the first vaccine was developed by Edward Jenner in the 18th century. The Spanish Flu, also known as the Influenza Pandemic, occurred between 1918 and 1919. Although it is called the Spanish Flu, the virus did not start in Spain. The exact origin is unclear, but it likely emerged from the trenches of World War I, where soldiers lived in close quarters, providing ideal conditions for the virus to spread. The Spanish Flu killed approximately 20 to 50 million people, making it one of the deadliest pandemics in history. These diseases were deadly for ancient populations and are remembered in history as some of the most devastating pandemics ever.
Money has always been crucial to human life, both in the past and today. It is a fundamental resource for survival and development. However, the value of currency can fluctuate; when the value decreases, we call it inflation. Inflation is a significant problem that needs to be addressed. As inflation occurs, the prices of goods and services rise, impacting human society in many ways. For instance, inflation makes it difficult for people to borrow money from banks because banks raise interest rates to control inflation. Additionally, people with fixed incomes struggle because their income does not increase in line with rising prices. There are ways to manage, though not completely stop, inflation. Governments can reduce spending or increase taxes to help control inflation. High productivity and lower production costs can also help reduce prices, thereby controlling inflation. These challenges can destabilize the economy and ultimately threaten the stability of society.
Nuclear weapons are the most dangerous and deadly weapons on Earth. These weapons, primarily in the form of nuclear bombs or nukes, are extremely harmful to both individuals and society. The detonation of a nuclear weapon creates a large mushroom cloud and can kill hundreds of thousands of people, causing severe burns, trauma, and radiation poisoning to survivors. Even if one survives the initial detonation, the resulting radiation can lead to radiation sickness, increased cancer risks, and genetic damage.Additionally, a nuclear detonation generates radioactive fallout that spreads over a vast area, contaminating air, water, soil, plants, buildings, and people. Preventing the use of nuclear weapons involves maintaining good relationships with other countries, regardless of their political systems or past conflicts. By fostering positive international relations, we can create a brighter future for human society and future generations.
Overall, human society has always faced crises, and it will continue to do so in the future. In the past, we dealt with devastating diseases; today, we grapple with economic challenges; and in the future, we may face the threat of global nuclear war. Ultimately, solving these crises involves learning from the past, addressing current problems, and working towards creating a better world for everyone in the future.
By: Seung Woo (Andy) Chyung
Write and Win: Participate in Creative writing Contest & International Essay Contest and win fabulous prizes.
