Limerence

In 1977, psychologist Dorothy Tennov coined the term “limerence” to explain the cognitive and emotional state of being involuntarily infatuated or obsessed with another person. Though sometimes conflated with a “crush,” limerence is much more intense. A limerent person is consumed with thoughts of the object of their affection, is intensely fearful of rejection, and swings between extreme joy and despair depending on whether feelings are reciprocated. How long can a limerent reaction last? Discuss

Leaders of the Bulgarian National Revival Day

The Ottoman Empire suppressed any expression of unity or national pride by the Bulgarian people. That situation underwent a dramatic reversal during the period known as the Bulgarian National Revival. On November 1, Bulgaria celebrates a national holiday to honor and remember those visionaries who did so much to establish a sense of national pride. Parades honoring students and teachers are held throughout the country. In the capital city of Sofia, the parade progresses beneath huge portraits of those leaders who nourished Bulgaria’s cultural rebirth. Discuss

Hermaphroditism

A hermaphrodite is an animal or plant that has both male and female reproductive systems. The term derives from Greek mythology—Hermes and Aphrodite’s son Hermaphroditus possessed physical traits of both sexes after fusing with a nymph. Hermaphroditism is quite common in flowering plants and in invertebrates like snails. “Hermaphrodite” has also been used to describe humans with both male and female genital tissues but is now considered misleading and stigmatizing. What term is preferred? Discuss