Session 8:  Readings: Chapter 6 & 7 Chapters 6 and 7 describe some environmental variables specifically, the atmospheric environment and its relationship to human behavior. Conditions of temperature, humidity, sunshine, wind and ion concentration are described in Chapter 6 and chemical pollution in Chapter 7. These topics are particularly relevant today as society is producing and manufacturing a variety of chemicals at a very accelerated rate. In chapter 6 three levels of atmospheric environments are distinguished the microclimate, ecoclimate, and the geoclimate.The microclimate and ecoclimate are those conditions that are available to our senses, whereas the geoclimate refers to atmospheric conditions covering wide geographical areas. This chapter and the next will focus on the ecoclimate. Some aspects of our ecoclimate are obvious and others less so. Variations in temperature is much more noticeable than variations in ion concentration. Researchers have done a number of studies relating changes in temperature to human functioning. Some of the dependent variables or outcome measures include performance, social behavior and health related variables. Researchers have also examined the effects of sunlight on physiology and behavior, specifically light dimensions and its effects on human behavior. Wind as a environmental determinant of behavior has also been studied. Since temperature and other weather changes also accompany winds , researchers have found it difficult to study the specific behavioral effects of wind.   Some researchers have also found that differential ion concentration in the environment could have an impact on human behavior and emotions. There have been some studies that have found a relationship between positive ion concentration and several emotional outcomes including depression, irritability and tension.  Chapter 7 discusses how population increase and technological development have altered the biosphere. Two case histories are in Chapter 7 one based in Minamata, Japan and second case based in upstate New York. Some major pollutants are discussed including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur and nitrogen oxides, ozone, particulate matter and formaldehyde. Tobacco smoke as a major pollutant is also discussed. There have been several studies on the effects of second smoke. Air pollution has become a major environmental problem in the last few decades and our environmental awareness and responsibility is slowly increasing through research and public education. Assignment/Essays Provide arguments for and against the following propositon: "Since only 2% of the American public lists air pollution as one of the major problems facing the country today, we should repeal EPA regulations regarding atmospheric dumping". Cite relevant research where appropriate. Activities Do the time-out exercise on page 173. Make your list of recommendations in a page or less. This is due by March 8th. Talk with some homeowners in your area. Find out if they heard of radon and what they know anything about it? How likely are they to test for it ? Is the knowledge about radon related to their fear and their chances of taking remedial action? This is due by March 8th.