Molecular excitation in the Interstellar Medium: recent advances in collisional, radiative and chemical processes

We review the different excitation processes in the interstellar mediumComment: Accepted in Chem. Re

Teaching: Natural or Cultural?

In this chapter I argue that teaching, as we now understand the term, is historically and cross-culturally very rare. It appears to be unnecessary to transmit culture or to socialize children. Children are, on the other hand, primed by evolution to be avid observers, imitators, players and helpers—roles that reveal the profoundly autonomous and self-directed nature of culture acquisition (Lancy in press a). And yet, teaching is ubiquitous throughout the modern world—at least among the middle to upper class segment of the population. This ubiquity has led numerous scholars to argue for the universality and uniqueness of teaching as a characteristically human behavior. The theme of this chapter is that this proposition is unsustainable. Teaching is largely a result of recent cultural changes and the emergence of modern economies, not evolution

How Definitions of ‘Child Soldiers’ Exclude Girls from Demobilisation Efforts

Child soldiers meet the Palermo Protocol’s definition of ‘trafficking in persons’.They are any person under 18, used in any capacity by armed forces or groups; this includes combatants, but also ancillary roles such as cooks, ‘wives’ and guards. However, disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) programmes often use narrower definitions which exclude many roles typically undertaken by girls. In failing to recognise girls’ experiences, DDR programmes leave them vulnerable. They escape trafficking situations only to face a lack of support and a high risk of re-exploitation. This chapter examines the remit and outcomes of DDR programmes. It assesses how they impact the futures of those both included and excluded and offers recommendations for more effective, inclusive efforts going forwards