Opinion: Our phones have now become an extension of ourselves, and as a result, social media has taken hold of what free time we may have left in our busy lives, instead of passions and hobbies.

Opinion: Pope Francis’ belief that the Catholic Church was intended to serve, advocate for human rights and defend those who could not defend themselves changed people’s minds about the church. For that, he should be respected by world citizens, Catholic or not. 

Opinion: Unified Sports at the University of Oregon is an incredible opportunity to meet people and get involved with our community, and everyone should try at least once.

Opinion: Transfer students leave for many reasons. With the added pressure of fandoms, social media and team success, it’s best not to assume why they change schools.

Opinion: We need to readdress preventing hate speech and slurs from being used, and it starts with confronting it regardless of the discomfort, awkwardness or fear that bystanders feel.

Opinion: Although coffee comes at a price, visiting a coffee shop for a drink or treat is worth the cost because of the quality, kindness, comfort, and community they have.

Opinion: In our society’s workplace of “personal connections,” nepotism is an inevitable but very nuanced aspect of our culture. 

Opinion: I’m burnt out from politics, and many students are, too, but what keeps me engaged is knowing that whether or not we pay attention, it affects us all in ways big and small.

Opinion: Despite concerns about polarization and democratic backsliding, trust in our democracy’s resilience and a push for respect of all political affiliations amongst Americans is apparent.

Opinion: Don’t let any frustration with older politicians cast an ageist shadow over the rest of the general population. 

Opinion: We were warned of the dangers of loneliness and ideology in the 1950s. Now, in the 21st century, algorithms foster echo chambers and a similar increase in ideological thought.

Opinion: In a seemingly polarized world, we should be open to having political discussions, but knowing how to engage in political discourse is equally important.

Opinion: The murders of women worldwide are usually committed by men, and the media should not shy away from that fact. We should address this pattern head-on, and make the necessary changes to prevent it from continuing at its alarming rate.

Opinion: More student support about how to navigate campus resources and websites should be implemented for new students.

Opinion: The University of Oregon’s move to the Big Ten has cause for celebration and concern. The decision will affect the entire UO community, but only time will tell how successful it will be.

Opinion: The Olympics are the world’s greatest stage for the world’s greatest athletes.

Opinion: Criticism is a necessary part of our accelerating world, however, in excess, constant criticism stifles and overlooks our accomplishments.

Opinion: The presidential election is less than 100 days away, and that race is taking nearly all the headlines. But, the Supreme Court has made some big decisions of late and the importance of those decisions and potential repercussions should not be overlooked.

Opinion: ASUO must prioritize transparency and encourage the student body’s continued engagement to spend its $18.5 million budget effectively next year.

Opinion: RateMyProfessors.com is not a reliable enough source for dictating your class schedule and should be used with caution, if utilized at all.