five social problems

"Life sucks and then you die." 

This seems to be many people's response to life's problems, especially large social issues that seem to have either no solution or as many solutions as there are opinions. Many of these problems can be hard to face, but acknowledging them is the first step to creating a better world. Five of the most challenging social issues facing the United States right now are: 

Money In Politics

If someone wants to run for president, or even join politics on a large scale, he/she needs to start saving every dollar. Essentially, it is close to impossible for the "average American Joe" to ever win a presidential election because they simply do not have the funds to do it. Personal wealth is an extremely important factor in the campaign process. Money helps a candidate be seen by wealthy people who fund campaigns and reach the eyes and ears of American voters. Many claim that our constitutional republic run by the people and for the people is actually run by a minority of the rich who can afford to run for office. 

Refugees 

With the rise of war in the Middle East, the number of refugees has increased--and they are turning to the United States for safety. Obama recently increased the number of Syrian refugees for resettlement in America to 10,000. This has been a controversial issue for awhile. Some believe that the United States cannot take in everyone that is in a worse position. Others argue that because the United States was involved in Iraq, they helped to exacerbate the situation in Syria. Therefore, we owe the Syrians help. Even if we do help, where do we resettle all of them? How do we integrate them successfully into our culture? 

Substance Abuse 

Drug abuse is a major public health problem in the United States, causing cancer, HIV/AIDS, heart disease and other medical problems. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, more than 50,000 people died due to drug overdose. Not only does drug abuse affect the addict, but it affect the lives of people around them. Drug abuse can destroy families, harm unborn babies and raise levels of violence and crime. Solutions for this issue come from both ends of the spectrum: some advocate for prohibition of some drugs while others call for their legalization. 

Separation of Church and State

In 1956, "In God We Trust" became the national motto of the United States due to a resolution passed by Congress. However, some argue that this is unconstitutional because it violates the First Amendment. The First Amendment states that there needs to be a clear separation of church and state. Proponents say that if religion and government are entirely separated, it would lead to a moral crisis. Societies, in a large part, depend on churches to help establish morals and a code of conduct. 

Pornography

Pornography has become an increasingly dangerous issue in American society. Frequency of porn use leads to depression, anxiety, stress and other mental health issues. It destroys users and families--much like substance abuse. It increases behavioral aggression and, in some instances, has led to violent assaults. Pornography is also an element that adds to the problem of sex trafficking. America is becoming habituated to a rising sexual culture.