Due Process Model

I believe that the due process model (which puts emphasis on an individuals rights) is essential and should constantly be our primary focus of this criminal justice system, although under the due process model there is a probability of criminals being set free or acquitted due to some technicality where individuals rights had been violated. As humans, we make mistakes and as we grow, we will learn from such mistakes. To affirm that those rights would not be violated again, but to allow a persons to be wrongfully convicted and sent to prison is a mistake that is unforgivable, one that can not be held to the standard â€Å"we live and we learn† and in my opinion, shows our justice system at it’s weakest. The Fourth Amendment posses the right against unreasonable search and seizure and probable cause is set forth so that law enforcement cannot conduct searches without proper evidence. The combination of the due process model and the right against illegal search and seizures will allow for authorities to rightfully obtain the information and evidence required for a conviction without the problem of the direct violation of an individuals rights. The Fifth Amendment declares that, †¦nor shall any person†¦ be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself†¦ â€Å"The right to remain silent. † The accused should not have to testify or say anything that would incriminate them. Under the due process model the accused is â€Å"innocent until proven guilty. If believed to be â€Å"in fact† guilty of a crime, it is law enforcement duty to collect any evidence that would affirm that belief. No person should be forced to self incriminate or to the confession of guild. The Sixth Amendment allows the right to a speedy trial. Unfortunately, this is not usually the case. The system is often under very heavy workloads and the proper preparation of cases. Therefore the accused is unfairly made to wait weeks sometimes months for their trial. Meanwhile the suffering of that individual and their family member increases by the day. With the due process model, those individuals would immediately be brought to trial. The Eighth Amendment apposes the use of cruel and unusual punishment. Once again, and individual is innocent until proven guilty. However, once accused of a crime the stigma is imposed and one will be â€Å"guilty† in some eyes regardless of what has or has not been proven and sometimes, I fear, one would be treated in a cruel and unusual manner. With the due process model, no persons accused would ever be harmed, physical or otherwise in any way.

Analytical Paper: Justin Martyr, First Apology Essay

Justin Martyr was the Greek apologist of Christianity who lived in the 2nd c. A. D. He was famous for his two Apologies (the First Apology dates back to about A. D. 155, rediscovered in 1364 ), and the Dialogue with Trypho. Both Chadwick and Richardson called him one of the most prominent advocates of Christian faith due to the most genuine spirit and voluminosity. The First Apology is addressed to the emperor Antoninus Pius and his confidants. The eloquent speech, which sometimes resembles of Platonic dialogues or defensive declaration in classic court, explains to the hostile prevailing authorities the foundations of Christian theology from the point of a true believer. As Richardson noted, the work was not recklessly structured, so far as it was difficult for commentators â€Å"to find a clear outline. † There is a scheme of the Apology given in chapter 23, though it â€Å"is hard to follow through in detail. † However, Richardson observed a distinctive rhetorical scheme consisting of seven themes: Plea for a Fair Hearing (chs. 1 to 8), The Faith and Life of Christians (chs. 9 to 20), Superiority of Christianity to Paganism (chs. 21 to 29), The Argument from Prophecy (chs. 30 to 53), Paganism an Imitation of Christianity (chs. 54 to 60), Christian Worship (chs. 61 to 67), and Conclusion (ch. 68) (1953, 236). Thus, the First Apology topically consists of the appeal to the Pagan Emperors who used to prosecute early Christians, the description of Christian theological position, the comparison of Pagan and Christian faiths, the overview of Biblical prophecies in regard to Jesus Christ, the account of Christian traditions (Eucharist, prays, etc. ) and the summary of previous argumentations. Justin addressed the Emperor and his relatives as philosophers and lovers of culture in the name of people regardless of nationality being â€Å"unjustly hated and reviled† for their faith. The apologist evidently held the hearers for humans being able to follow reason. More than that, Justin Martyr called for the high reputation of the Emperor as the pillar of justice who could not send a criminal to death before conviction but, nevertheless, illogically did not pause to murder Christians. The author swept aside the suspicions that he would flatter higher authorities, or try to seek their indulgent protection. Instead, Justin suggested that the listeners should voluntary â€Å"give judgment according to strict and exact inquiry† without â€Å"prejudice or respect for superstitious men, or by irrational impulse and long-established evil rumor. † No doubt that the author built his argument as if he was a solicitor speaking before the trial jury. In evidence of his firm and sincere position of a Christian, he exclaimed, For we are firmly convinced that we can suffer no evil unless we are proved to be evildoers or shown to be criminals. You can kill us, but cannot do us any real harm. Justin’s discourse is founded on the concept of reason and truth. He juxtaposed the negative rule of custom to the positive guidance of truth. The apologist’s conceptualization of truth linked to the one of justice even at the cost of life, as well as to the most perfect embodiment of Reason, God. Justin warned his audience, â€Å"if those who learn [the truth] do not do what is right, they have no defense before God. † Chadwick stated that, according to the apologist, â€Å"the gospel and the best elements in Plato and the Stoics are almost identical ways of apprehending the same truth. † It seems to be true that Justin did not afraid to appellate to the authority of pagan philosophers, Plato and Socrates. The latter â€Å"made the race of men endowed with intelligence, able to choose the truth and do right, so that all men are without excuse before God, for they were made with the powers of reason and observation. † He was executed for denouncing the power of evil demons who seduced humans and made them act wickedly. Justin found that there were parallels between the Stoics’ catastrophic comprehension of the world and â€Å"the eschatological fire of God’s judgement. † Still, the Christian spirit proclaimed by Justin is closer to Plato’s teaching. For example, in regard to death and martyrdom the apologist seemed to echo the Greek philosopher in the utterance, â€Å"we are not troubled by being put to death, since we will have to die somehow in any case. † The Christian idea of eternal punishment for sinners and salvation for true and virtuous believers, when â€Å"the souls of the unrighteous will be punished after death, still remaining in conscious existence, and those of the virtuous, delivered from punishments, will enjoy happiness,† also seems to correspond with Plato’s ideas. It looks as if Justin assigned both philosophers and the prophets of the Old Testament to the one and the same position. He argued that Plato in his saying that, â€Å"The blame belongs to him who chooses, and God is free from blame,† sounded like the prophet Moses. The concept of Divinity as bodiless and formless substance having created the Universe traveled from one philosophic mind to another. Justin seemed to view the role of the Old Testament prophets in paving the road to the descending of Jesus Christ to people to redeem them of sins and evil. Justin wrote, â€Å"There were among the Jews certain men who were prophets of God, through whom the prophetic Spirit announced in advance events that were to occur. † One may assume that the apologist had knowledge of human psychology and community behavior. He assumed that â€Å"God testified in advance through the prophetic Spirit that things which are unbelievable and thought impossible among men would happen, so that when this should occur it would not be disbelieved, but received with faith because it had been predicted. † Citing the Bible, Justin analyzed the evidence from the Old Testament in regard to the events of the New Testament. He stated further that there were even more events to have been predicted by ancient prophets and there would be the second epiphany of Christ to Earth. Justin Martyr was a pioneer in underlining the Christian emphasis on spirit and dismissing human flesh as the driving cause for any acts and events. According to him, Christians were outstanding in their â€Å"longing for the life which is eternal and pure. † When the writer compared the pagan tradition of portraying gods as the objects of craft, he stressed that it was disgusting because of craftsmen’s licentious habits. He recalled ancient accounts of pagan gods living material life in contrast to Christian God who â€Å"has no need of material offerings from men, considering that he is the provider of all. † It is interesting to observe how Justin tried to build the hierarchy of three Christian deities: the Father, the Son and the Spirit. He made his best to explain that Christians honored Jesus as occupying the second place in the system, whereas the prophetic Spirit was in the third rank. He dwelt in details on the teaching of Jesus where people were taught to love and trust each other, live in purity and clarity of thought and deed. That formed a sharp contrast to the pagan traditions of prostitution, greed, lust and wilderness. Justin put Christianity superior to Paganism because Christian God let believers â€Å"not to consume by fire the things he has made for our nourishment, but to devote them to our use and those in need, in thankfulness to him sending up solemn prayers and hymns for our creation. † Christian God pursued the genuine truth and did not enjoy prejudices and human blindness in referencing to the truth. Involuntary, Justin sometimes made similar Christian and Pagan deities. However, he immediately tried to explain those analogies â€Å"as imitations of the truth inspired by the devil, who with foresight and sagacity has thereby tried to inoculate men against the gospel by caricatures of the Incarnation or of the virgin birth or of baptism and the eucharist. † What is the use of Justin’s First Apology in the Roman and modern period? First, he addressed plain people who craved after the main idea for their lives. Second, he integrated the new teaching in the sequence of human thought to change the outliving mode of political and spiritual life. Third, he was â€Å"utterly frank and open-hearted† in describing the emerging faith. So far as his theological contribution is concerned, Justin was artful enough â€Å"to piece together a mosaic providing a clear and surprisingly full account of his doctrines of God, Creation, Incarnation, Atonement, the Church, the sacraments of baptism and eucharist, and the Last Things. † Richardson admitted in his turn that Justin Martyr stood apart from other apologists in his warm and human tone: â€Å"Most of the other Apologists lead their reader to the door of the church [†¦] while Justin opens it and tells a good deal about what goes on inside. † Bibliography Chadwick, Henry. Early Christian Thought and the Classical Tradition: Studies in Justin, Clement, and Origen. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1984. Richardson, Cyril Charles. Early Christian Fathers. Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1953.

Prepare a legal brief on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Santa Fe Essay

Prepare a legal brief on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Santa Fe Independent School Dist. v. Doe, 530 U.S. 290 (2000) - Essay Example They even argued that since these prayers were conducted by the students themselves, these prayers were not anything more than a speech conducted by a student and by no means was a speech that was sponsored by the state itself. This case was a 6 -3 decision in which the court decided that the prayers conducted by students before commencement of football games taking place at a public address system gives an image that the state government is trying to endorse religious activities and due to this such activities were found to be in violation of the Establishment Clause1. The district had failed to persuade the court into believing that prayers conducted before high school level football games were a private matter of the students. These prayers and their content were regulated, administered and monitored by the school and due to this; these prayers were considered as if the government preferred such speeches and prayers which are religious in nature. Secondly, according to the historical background of practices that were religious in nature and were conducted in the district of schools, the policy that was undertaken by the district to elect students seemed to be created to preserve the performance of prayers taking place before the games were held. The court even figured out that the method that was used to elect the prayer participants and to determine whether a particular message should be conveyed or not intensified the issue of violation of Establishment Clause because these voting resulted in rivalry between different individuals who were foll owing different religions. Fourthly, the way the speaker was elected even reflected that prayers of those who were in the majority would take place. Due to all these factors, the court established that such practices were not only perceived to be endorsed by the state, but were actually state endorsed and

Impact of current economic downturn on Startegic human resource Essay

Impact of current economic downturn on Startegic human resource development - Essay Example e strategic human resource development can involve any of the following types of development such as short term or long term development, individual or group orientation, low participation or high participation techniques, spontaneous or systemic development and so on (Schuler and Jackson, 1987). But the dependence of these types of development techniques is based on certain pillars. These are as discussed by Garavan (2007) global environment, corporate strategy and culture, value and exclusivity of jobs and lastly employee expectation and careers. This essay will examine the importance of the contexts in the strategic human resource development while assessing the impact of the recent economic turmoil on these contexts in relation to human resource development. Furthermore, new steps initiated by organizations in response to the impacts will also be discussed. A swiftly changing economic environment illustrated by events such as globalization, deregulation of global markets, changing demands of customer and supplier, rapidly increasing competition in product-market and so on has become a change standard for organizations. Organizations in order to remain competitive, find ways to reduce costs, innovate products and processes and bring about changes in human resource management and development. Researches have addressed the concept of human resource as one that contributes to the accomplishment of organization’s operating and strategic goals. As the human resource strategies are built to accomplish the goals of the firms, certain objectives or framework also lies behind the development and objectives of strategic human resource. According to Garavan (2007) four levels of context are important in shaping organizations strategic human resource development: a) the global environment; b) the organization’s strategy, structure, culture, and leadership; c) the value and uniqueness that the firm attaches to particular jobs; and d) individual expectations,

Information and communication technologies Essay

Information and communication technologies - Essay Example Introduction of various types of computer-rel'ted communic'tion technologies now allow p'rticip'nts to exch'nge inform'tion in ' m'nner th't is not like either interperson'l or m'ss communic'tion ch'nnels (Re'rdon & Rogers, 1988). The new communic'tion technologies 're networking tools in th't their m'in function is to connect individu'ls' computers by telephone lines or c'bles. These inter'ctive technologies c'n link dist'nt individu'ls who might otherwise be un'ble or unlikely to communic'te. ICT f'cilit'te both the one-to-one 'nd the one-to-sever'l exch'nge th't is ch'r'cteristic of interperson'l communic'tion, 'nd the one-to-m'ny flow of inform'tion th't is ch'r'cteristic of m'ss medi' communic'tion. Marketers have been using electronic tools for years but the Internet and other information technologies have created a flood of interestinf and innocative to ptovide customer value. ICT can be used extensively for the business communication, and more precisely for accessing information. Diferent apparatus such as telephone, facsimile of Internet can suit the business needs. These devices and services they delivermay make available the business support sercivice through local intermediaries as well as from official sources. Accessing information is not only for business environment. The growing import'n... Nor h've pr'ctitioners of business communic'tion f'iled to notice the "inform'tion revolution" th't h's been occurring in their org'niz'tions. New opportunities for consulting, tr'ining, 'nd 'n'lysis 're provided by the problems 'ssoci'ted with the introduction 'nd imp'cts of the new inter'ctive technologies. One of the most widely-discussed new ICT is the Internet, ' computer network linking ' l'rge number of previously-existing computer networks. In recent ye'rs, Internet h's become the network of networks, 's its number of users re'ched critic'l m'ss: the point 't which ' cert'in minimum number of users h've 'dopted so th't the r'te of 'doption of the new communic'tion technology suddenly t'kes off (Rogers, 1995). Once 'n ICT re'ches this critic'l m'ss, 's in the c'se of ' m'ss of r'dio'ctive m'teri'l th't goes critic'l (the phenomenon in nucle'r physics from which critic'l m'ss derives it n'me), e'ch 'ddition'l user incre'ses the number of potenti'l network connections exponenti'lly (Rice & D'nowski, 1993). Thus, one c'n underst'nd why getting to critic'l m'ss is the cruci'l str'tegy for the introduction of 'n ICT in business communic'tions.The gre'ter e'se of communic'tion 'cross physic'l 'nd soci'l dist'nce provided by inter'ctive communic'tion systems m'y le'd to problems of inform 'tion overlo'd. For ex'mple, Bill G'tes, the ch'irm'n 'nd co-founder of Microsoft, the gig'ntic softw're comp'ny, m'kes his e-m'il 'ddress known to 'll Microsoft employees ('lthough he keeps his telephone number f'irly priv'te). Employees send ' tot'l of 200 million e-m'il mess'ges to e'ch other every month. G'tes reserves sever'l hours e'ch d'y to communic'te on e-m'il. Individu'ls who 're not employees of Microsoft h've little difficulty in

Genetically modified organisms safe or unsafe Research Paper

Genetically modified organisms safe or unsafe - Research Paper Example In this regard, these practices seek to ensure that there was continuous supply of food and other important products to the world’s population, which improved food security. With advancements in technology becoming the order of the day, it is prudent to note that scientists are using technology to improve on food security and ensure the availability of other important products that satisfied human wants. However, some of the approaches that humanity is using technology to produce food and other products have become controversial with some issues dividing the world along two opposing sides with these sides making strong arguments for their case. In the contemporary world, scientists are increasingly advocating for the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to increase on the production of food and other important products that satisfy human wants. Despite the role played by genetically modified organisms in producing food and products that enhanced food security, there is evidence that GMOs are unsafe, and their use comes with disastrous effects on both animal and human life. A number of controversies surround the production of GMOs, including the ethical nature regarding their production. However, the most controversial issue regards the safety of GMOs with their effects on human life remaining the most dividing issue. In line with this, evidence available through various researchers suggest that GMOs, and especially genetically modified foods, are unsafe for human consumption. First, research carried out by scientists on rats that fed on GMO food indicates that rats became sick after feeding on GMOs. In this case, a study conducted by Seralini observed that rats fed on GMO products developed brains tumors quickly than rats that were in the control group of the study (qtd. in Committee for Research & Independent Information on Genetic Engineering). In effect, this indicates that GMOs were unsafe, and their use by human beings put them at a risk of health related complications. On the other hand, evidence suggests that GMOs production involved the addition of chemicals that produced pathogens that were on the same level as viruses. According to a research study conducted by Huber, the virus produced by GMOs contributed to infertility issues on human and animals that feed on the GMOs as well as other health related complications (qtd. in Krudtaa, â€Å"Dr. Huber†). Based on the two safety issues provided above, the use of GMO products poses major risks that affected human life. Nonetheless, the study by Seralini provides the best solution to the question regarding the safety in the use of GMO products by human beings since the study involved the use of rats while the study by Huber linked the production of GMO products with pathogens that contributed to infertility without conducting any research. In line with this, Seralini relied on rats in a study that was thorough and longer than any other previous research conducted by scientists and fed rats with genetically modified maize since the study followed 200 rats for two years (Pollack). In support of this study, another research study conducted by Gallagher indicated that rats that fed on an eggplant produced through GMO technology â€Å"experienced organ and system damage† (qtd. in Krudtaa, â€Å"GMO Eggplant†). Furthermore, these eggplants affected the reproduction organs of rats with ovaries reducing their normal weight by half while the spleen enlarged and the white blood cells

Are corporations obliged to help combat social problems Is factory Annotated Bibliography

Are corporations obliged to help combat social problems Is factory farming morally justifiable When are wages fair - Annotated Bibliography Example Journal of Business Ethics, Vol. 98: Issue 3: pp 513 – 530. Kaptein’s article offers a great and in-depth analysis of employees and organizations’ role in reporting wrongdoings. According to Kaptein, employees are crucial in detecting and reporting wrongdoing in the workplace. The article purports that organizations must also create conditions that encourage employees to ‘blow the whistle’ once a wrongdoing is spotted. The article includes a detailed literature review on the number of wrongdoings exposed by employees across the world. These statistics highlight the crucial role played by employees on ‘blowing the whistle’, enabling readers to understand the exact role the employee should play when they encounter fraud. Ahmad, S., Smith, G. M., & Ismail, Z., 2012. ‘Internal Whistle-Blowing Intentions: A Study of Demographic and Individual Factors’, Journal of Modern Accounting and Auditing, Vol. 8, Issue 11, pp1632-1645. This article analyzes the topic on whistle blowing in the context of an auditor. It is important to note that much of editors’ work involves scrutinizing records for accuracy and fraud. The article uses an empirical approach to analyze those factors that move or hinder employees to take action (or not to). For instance, does age or gender influence whistle blowing behaviour among employees? It also analyzes other factors such as employees’ ethical judgment, locus of control and commitment to the organization. Although the research is an empirical study on the topic, it was not sufficiently detailed to provide a true picture of the whole situation. Participants in the study were from the same institution which could result to a biased view. This article introduces a legal dimension into the whistle blowing dilemma. The article reveals that in some countries such as Australia, Ghana and Malaysia, a law guiding employees on whistle blowing is

Adolf Hitler was Evil but not Monstrous Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Adolf Hitler was Evil but not Monstrous - Essay Example The entire Germany and the entire army welcomed most of Hitler’s policies. As a leader, he was very effective in perpetuating his foreign policy because the public supported him. Now, does this make the whole German public evil or monstrous as well? There was a desire to raise Germany from defeat and humiliation and Hitler shared this goal. The claim of being evil and being a monster is largely driven by Hitler’s foreign policy because he looked after the welfare of his people. His actions oriented towards the outer world are the ones that could be considered evil and monstrous. But this is even complicated by the fact that Germany was at war and it was bound to commit atrocities and may have partly been compelled to do evil in order to win.Adolf Hitler was also affectionate towards his people; he brought about many reforms and actions that benefit the German public in the local policy making domain. He has also had the capacity for human emotions and the ability to exp ress them. This is excellently depicted in the movie made in 2004 with a title, â€Å"The Downfall† (Palmer). The movie showed Hitler’s last few days during the Second World War. It told us of a complex man with capabilities for affection as he interacted with people and responded to circumstances. The movie depicted Hitler as a man who expresses a wide range of human and positive emotions especially those close to his life. On this account, one cannot argue that Hitler is utterly or completely monstrous.

Strategic Analysis Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Strategic Analysis Project - Essay Example Corporate office sees an opportunity for fresh new ideas and perceptive from you, and is looking for a formal business case, which will include a well researched strategy, specific tactics, and a complete communication plan that will help this hotel achieve very specific and measurable business objectives . This account will first examine the Canada base Signature hotel market, talk about the main industry group of actors and show the family member significance of input issue. Moreover, it will find out the Canada consumer trends, there the variety of background of investors and provide a future outlook the length of with a predict which has been built-up to exemplify the manufacturing and the factors touching its growth and future. In end, it determination remark on short-term and long-term asset as well as recommending an result for the shareholder. Kevin (et all, 2006) has conducted research into the innovative practices used by hotels to satisfy customer needs and preferences, specifically business travelers and also women business travelers who have increased needs of safety and privacy. The research shows that professionalism of front-line staff was rated as a top individual item with the highest level of agreement among managers in achieving and maintaining competitiveness. As the nature of the hospitality industry is to provide service through people, front-line staffs, which have direct contact with customers, play an essential role in delivering quality service. Choi (16 April 2007) has suggested that business travelers try to fit in some pleasure along with the business trip. The author has given details from the National Business Travel Association, which suggests that 62 percent of U.S. business travelers add a leisure component to at least one business trip every year and two thirds said that they also bring along a family member of a friend to the trip. 1.1. Current expectations CNN (Chan, 14 August 2007) has reported that there is a change in the profile of the business traveler and this segment includes women, single parents, double income families, people who would like to take their families, spouse or kids along and those who look forward to combining a vacation along with the business trip. When people come with their kids or other family members, they expect some type of entertainment, sight seeing facilities and those with young kids expect a small playpen, a decent swimming pool and other such facilities. The article also claims that nearly half of all business travelers are women who travel alone and have special needs for security in their rooms, in the car parking area, the lobby, elevator, restaurant, bar and other areas. Women need special care to ward off unwanted attention as they enter the hotel, have food or a drink and hotel staff are trained to provide them better services. Some hotels have created women friendly services with special flo ors exclusively for women and monitor all approach and exit points in the hotel. Florio (30 May 2007) has reported that the Generation X or the new young business travelers expect "luxuries of home in exchange for their hard earned travel dollar. Among other

Theories Of Representation Essay Example for Free

Theories Of Representation Essay They say two heads are better than one and I suppose, having two codes to represent knowledge is more advantageous than just relying on one code. Visual and verbal codes of representations enable the mind to have a more vivid memory of the information or concept that needs to be recalled (Kosslyn, Ganis Thompson, 2001). For example, if I need to remember directions in going to my friend’s place in a city I am visiting for the second time, I could easily visualize the appearance of the streets, the stores in the neighborhood and the location of my friend’s house, at the same time, this picture in my head can be validated by the verbal codes of the names of the street, the signage in the stores and a landmark in the neighborhood. If I relied only on visual codes, the appearance of suburban homes in a large neighborhood would be similar and I would have difficulty ascertaining which one is my friend’s place, on the other hand, if I only used verbal codes, then I have to spend the day going around the neighborhood reading each street sign until I get to the right street. Likewise, using both verbal and visual cues aid in remembering texts and information needed to successfully pass a test or an examination. Verbal codes are words, and when we memorize concepts and information, it is by memorizing the words, phrases and even sentences and paragraphs. Visual codes refer to pictures or our mental representations of what we have seen (Neath Suprenant, 2003). I study using my notes and outline of a particular subject, I read my notes, I read the book and I found out that I seem to remember more if I visualize the position of the text as I read it, or the kind of pen I used or even the color of the paper. It helped me remember information I have missed if I rely on verbal codes alone, since we know that our capacity to remember words are very small. Moreover, I find that children and even adults learn more when they are presented with information using rich media, the use of the computer and even direct instruction uses both verbal and visual cues (Kurtz, Gentner Gunn, 1999). Spelling programs in the computer present a series of letters and the child has to arrange the letters to spell the word correctly, the word is represented by a corresponding picture and when a child is confronted with the picture, she would associate the word to it and vice versa. For adults, skills training usually are hands on, experiential or involve modeling behavior or role playing. The learners are given input or materials in text to describe, define and understand the specific skill to be learned, the teacher then demonstrates the skill, which would be committed to memory facilitating the learning of new skills (Pylyshyn, 2002). An example is the use of machinery, if the new employee works with equipment for the first time, he/she can read the manual and then tinker with the machine to see how it would work, and again the learning of skills is based on the visual operation of the machine and the verbal codes in the manual. The verbal codes serves as the guide to how the machine should be operated, while the visual codes   present in the sequence of operations like what button to press first and what knob to turn is the behavioral manifestation of successful learning of the new skill. There are instances however wherein one of the codes would be dominant and the other supports or enriches the dominant code (Neath Suprenant, 2003), for example, in remembering texts and definitions, one would rely on verbal codes, but visual codes can help in remembering what those words were. In the same way, if we have to remember a scene from a movie, visualizing the scene would be more important, but remembering what was said in that scene would help us identify what the scene was about. In conclusion, two codes are better and we need to discover how it could work together to improve memory and learning. References Kosslyn, S., Ganis, G. Thompson, W. (2001). Neural foundations of imagery. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 2: 635-642. Kurtz, K., Gentner, D. Gunn, V. (1999). Reasoning. In D.E. Rumelhart B.M. Bly (Eds). Cognitive Science: Handbook of Perception and Cognition 2nd   ed. San Diego: Academic Press, pp. 145-200. Neath, I. Suprenant, A.(2003). Human Memory. Belmont, CA., Wadswoth/Thompson Learning. Pylyshyn, Z. (2002). Mental imagery: In search of a theory. Behavioral and Brain Science, 25: 157-238.

What is a Good Life?

What is a Good Life? Human beings have an inherent drive and passion for finding absolution in what they deem the good life. For decades however, philosophers have struggled to argue a solid case for such. It can be suggested that many facets work in unison to allow a good life, but what is it that could give a unified answer to this great philosophical question? This essay will attempt to clarify such uncertainty, considering two perspectives of the good life. Firstly, are there any characteristics, needs, abilities and sorted other elements that are shared by all humans? Secondly, if there are elements which exist, then what do these require the good life to include, or what must the good life be like, given the properties we all share? To attain the answers to these questions, reference will be given to Natural Law, Virtue Theory, Eudaemonia and happiness. We are all striving towards it, the good life, happiness, well-being, a well-lived life, fulfilment. But what is it that makes us feel good? Though difficult to give a comprehensible definition, goodness is generally referred to as specific traits or properties of a real object or set of objects. More so, the concept of goodness can be divided into other, subsidiary concepts (Goodness and Value Theory, 2004). That is, a series of events which lead to innate goodness. In essence, both are deemed circular and leave no meaningful definition for discussion. The good life is a condition in which a person will be the most happy. Such happiness can be researched through a deductive perspective, which has been done by many philosophers over time (Wernqvist, 2007). Two such philosophers, Plato and Aristotle, deem the good life as the state in which a person exhibits total virtue. Throughout this essay, their works will be compared and contrasted to give clear argument to the meaning a good life for humans. Humans, their characteristics and their activities can be evaluated in relation to the parts they play in human life (Meyers-Levy, 2009). Alternatively saying, that every facet of human life can contribute to what is deemed good. Humans, being a subject of creation, ultimately entail goodness. Such a life is one in which actions someone does and feels leads to what is otherwise known as happiness. Such happiness is neither just an experience; nor is it found as a result of following moral laws. Rather, happiness is an activity. It is the events of the individual which lead to the life of good. INSERT REFERENCE Over time, philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle have tried to highlight the concept of goodness by defending various accounts. Such accounts do not require that a person who is well off merely experience any feelings of happiness or satisfaction. What they do require is that their desires are consciously fulfilled, which does not come down to the same thing (Angner, 2009). Plato argues that a person will exhibit total virtue when their desires have been quenched (Cooper and Hutchison, 1997), while Aristotle believes the perfect state of the individual will bring their ultimate virtue (Solomon, 1984). Cooper and Hutchinson (1997) write that Platos argument for the good life is stemmed from love because through this, individuals can rid themselves of desires. That is, love is actually the quest for that good. Aristotle argues that the good life is different for each individual because it comes from living ones life according to ones virtues, and each person has different virtues (Solomon, 1984). Through analysis of their works, both Plato and Aristotle agree the good life is a demonstration of perfect virtue. However, they disagree on the particular definition of virtue and its relationship to happiness. Therefore, both disagree on the ways of attaining such happiness. Plato sees the good life as being attained through the perfect love and lack of desire (Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997), while Aristotle believes that the good life is achieved through a perfect state which causes its citizens to act upon their virtues (Solomon, 1984). The original Platonic view of the world, (cited Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997) is that it is a two tiered place, the upper tier being the world of perfection, the lower tier being the world of reality, and love falling somewhere in between. The theory is that the plane of reality is an imperfect copy of the plane of perfection. According to the Platonic view, humans only see glimpses of the good while existing in the plane of reality. Plato believes that love is the midpoint between reality and perfection, mortality and immortality. Love does not fall into the sphere of immortals and perfection because how could love be a god if he is not in possession of beautiful and good things? Since Love is the love of beautiful things, Love must have desires and therefore cannot be a god Yet Love is greater than mortals because love has and always will exist. Thus Love is a great spirit, a halfway point between the realms of existence (Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997). To Plato, the good life is one in which a person is exhibits perfect virtue and is therefore closer to the higher realm of existence. Virtue is comes from the absence of desires, so true happiness means being satisfied to the point one does not have desires. This satisfaction and happiness occur when a person arrives at the mystical understanding of the world (Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997). According to Plato, through Diotima and Socrates dialogue, love is the medium in which humans will attain the knowledge of the good, and come upon this understanding. It is human nature to seek out happiness, and ownership of good things makes one happy. (Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997). Solomon (1984) illustrates that in order to show that happiness lies in virtue, Aristotle first splits forms of the good into three parts, external goods, goods of the body, and goods of the soul. He goes on to say that goods of the soul (virtues) are the most important because with them, a person can gain material wealth and pleasure. Aristotle defines happiness and therefore the good life as the realisation and perfect exercise of excellence. This is subsequently referred to as Eudaemonia. Aristotles view of such is typically regarded as an objective account of well-being. Nonetheless, subjective stances do evidently play some role in well-being even according to Aristotle (Phillips, 2005). This is where the existence of goodness becomes a subjective account, because it describes a persons well-being as a function of his or her feelings, experiences, desires, and so on, thus making it a conscious attribute of human life. From a basic Greek translation, Eudaemonia is that of supreme life with fulfilment and happiness, identified after ones death. Such life is built of variable actions of excellence which are both intrinsic and extrinsic in their nature (Urmson, 1988). Recognised, are three types of excellence by Aristotle. They are Bodily excellence, the excellence of Character and the excellence of Intelligence. Two of these excellences (character and intellect) fall within the realm of human choice and rationalism. Bodily excellence is paramount to Eudaemonia, however exhibits little reference in this context (Urmson, 1988). There are also a number of influences that determine such excellence, often as a result of our actions through life. Controlled intrinsic actions are separated into two forms: the Moral and the Intellectual. The Moral includes ones courage, piety, fairness and equality. The other form is that of Intellectual influences which include ones fine mind, wisdom and intuition. In contrast are ones extrinsic actions, which are often uncontrollable. They include our appearance, friends in high places (social connections) and wealth (Urmson, 1988). Our actions per sae can be defined as either a chain; those actions that help you attain an end which in turn leads to a further end or as a direct result; which is an action that helps you attain an end in itself. For supreme fulfilment, these actions work in unison with one another (Urmson, 1988). It is through such, as detailed by Urmson (1988) that happiness and fulfilment is an objective good, as opposed to a subjective state of living. This is not conditional, but absolute (Solomon, 1984). This in layman terms means ultimate happiness occurs when a persons actions are all virtuous and have goals which are virtuous. It also implies that in order to live the good life, there must be no action which is unnecessary, but for the sake of virtue. This implies that the good life must be a universal goal because unless all people are perfectly virtuous, action must be taken to maintain virtue for those who are not virtuous. Take for example, ones ambition to become a Primary School Principal. It is through relevant studies and experience that the individual is able to achieve such a goal. Though there may be monetary benefits for holding such position, it is not something that would drive the individual to achieve. Their character and intelligence hold the greatest motivation for fulfilment. Such an example utilises Aristotles Eudaemonic theory of unison between chained and direct actions as well as the forms of excellence, as previously adhered to. Basing such a goal on pleasurable or political instincts, such as salary or power, is not a means by which Aristotle would deem leading a fulfilled Eudaemonic life. There are however three things that make men good and excellent; these are nature, habit and reason (Solomon, 1984). The road to happiness is through formation of habit and reason which create virtuous action, in addition to possessing a nature that compliments them. Both Plato and Aristotle see happiness as being virtuous, but disagree on the nature of virtue, causing their ideas to follow varied paths. They do however meet at key points. Plato sees happiness as being close to godliness. By living virtuously one can obtain this godliness (Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997). To Aristotle, happiness is the result of being virtuous because by being so, one obtains pleasure and external wealth (Solomon, 1984). Plato and Aristotle further agree that education is the means to attain virtue, but they disagree on how a person should be educated because of their differing views on the cause of virtue. According to Aristotle (Solomon, 1984), virtue comes from the agreement of the nature, habits and reason in a humans conscience. Therefore, Aristotle states that education should begin from birth and it should involve changing the childs habits and forming his reason so that their nature, habits and reason will align. Plato believes that virtue stems from an understanding of true Beauty, which exists only in the higher plane of the world. Thus Plato believes that education of a human being should begin when the child is ready to love another. Platos ideal education involves bringing a person along by having him experience different forms of love between people, so that he may begin to love physical beauty and then beauty of the mind. Through this he sees the beauty in all things and eventually, with guidance understands all forms of beauty, ultimately understanding formless beauty (Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997). Another key agreement between Plato and Aristotle is the importance of interpersonal relationships in the quest for the good life. Both agree that interpersonal relationships account for the education of individuals, but Aristotle goes further because he sees attaining the good life as societal. He recognizes that if one is forced to take action because of others misdeeds, he cannot lead the good life, and therefore each person must be equal to the next so that nobody has to act on account of another (Cooper and Hutchinson, 1997). Human happiness is the foremost concern for both Plato and Aristotle in their works of literature. Since happiness is almost a universal emotion their conclusions on the cause of happiness is similar. But, Plato and Aristotle are completely different individuals, so the causes of their happiness are, at the same time, completely different. In personal evaluation, I am inclined to side with Aristotles point of view for ultimate fulfilment. It is through the result of actions of excellence (both direct and chained) that we can demonstrate our way of life. This in turn fortifies perceptions of us having led a fulfilled and happy life. If one opted to follow fulfilment through mere pleasurable circumstances, i.e. because the money is good, then in Aristotles eyes, their life would be one deemed lavish, suitable for beasts pulled by desire and compulsion. Happiness cannot be placed on material things. It is a matter of setting a goal and looking past the superficial things that stand in the way. It is therefore relevant to say that to lead a flourishing life, one needs to take ownership of the actions which lead to their lifelong goal. Actions often speak louder than words do. We as humans should do whatever it takes to produce the most fulfilment for ourselves. There is a distinct difference between feeling happy and merely being happy.

Rewards In Society :: essays research papers

Micro Theme Assignment #1, Position #2   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Our present society is composed of a ranking structure based on the premise that unequal distribution of rewards such as status, resources, and power is natural, right and good; and for this type of structure to stand, there must be many on the bottom, and a few at the top. Persons in the structure must either resign themselves to their status, compete to win a higher position, and/or defend the position they have. In order for some to move up this structural hierarchy, others must move down if the structure is to remain stable. Although this process may be necessary for our existing society to function properly, it can also prove to be detrimental to society. The competition, fear, greed, resentment and revenge inherent in these types of social systems continue to be formidable barriers blocking the way to social equality in our current society. Karl Marx believed that production is dependant on the workers material conditions present at the time. Unequal distribution of rewards may cause those people who do not experience promotion or personal gain to feel insignificant to society, resulting in a low self-esteem and a reduced level of production. I enlisted into the United States Army for three years following my high school graduation. A good example of unequal distribution of awards is the military, where the whole income structure is based on a person’s rank, and only one individual at the top of your chain of command can grant a request for an increase in rank. If that individual does not like you, he or she has the power to deny any and all requests for promotion. For the soldiers that were denied a promotion, they were looked down upon by many of their peers and leaders. These soldiers soon began to act as if they did not deserve to be promoted. Marx said, “how workers are related to each other can affect their family relations, leisure activities, child-rearing practices, and self-esteem';(Kerbo 94). I observed some of these characteristics, such as low self-esteems, thoughts of quitting the Army before the expiration of enlistment, thoughts of committing violent crimes, and even suicide. The unequal distribution of rewards can also lead to what Max Weber called “status groups';, groups of people who obtain similar levels of promotion, prestige or personal gain in their workplace or community. These groups of people tend to cut themselves off from those not in their group.

Imagery within the Tragedy Othello Essay -- Othello essays

Imagery within the Tragedy Othello  Ã‚        Ã‚  Ã‚   The grand variety of imagery in William Shakespeare’s tragic drama Othello serves many purposes. Let us in this paper consider the types and purposes of the imagery.    In her book, Everybody’s Shakespeare: Reflections Chiefly on the Tragedies, Maynard Mack comments on the imagery of darkness and how it supports the evil schemes of the ancient:    Just now, however, as we listen to his plans evolve, the darkness seems chiefly to be Iago’s element. In the darkness of this Venetian street, he moves to disrupt Othello’s marriage if he can. Later, in the darkness of a street in Cyprus, he will close his trap on Cassio, involving him in a scuffle that will cost him his lieutenancy. Still later, in the dark island outpost, he will set Roderigo to ambush Cassio, and so (he hopes) be rid of both. Simultaneously, in a darkness that he has insinuated into Othello’s mind, Desdemona will be strangled. (134)    The vulgar imagery of the ancient dominate the opening of the play. Francis Ferguson in â€Å"Two Worldviews Echo Each Other† describes the types of imagery used by the antagonist when he â€Å"slips his mask aside† while awakening Brabantio:    Iago is letting loose the wicked passion inside him, as he does from time to time throughout the play, when he slips his mask aside. At such moments he always resorts to this imagery of money-bags, treachery, and animal lust and violence. So he expresses his own faithless, envious spirit, and, by the same token, his vision of the populous city of Venice – Iago’s â€Å"world,† as it has been called. . . .(132)    Standing outside the senator’s home late at night, Iago uses imagery within a lie to arouse the occupant: â€Å" Awake! w... ...s, copulating horses and sheep, serpents, and toads; other images, more wide-ranging in scope, include green-eyed monsters, devils, blackness, poisons, money purses, tarnished jewels, music untuned, and light extinguished. (217)    WORKS CITED    Bevington, David, ed. William Shakespeare: Four Tragedies. New York: Bantam Books, 1980.    Ferguson, Francis. â€Å"Two Worldviews Echo Each Other.† Readings on The Tragedies. Ed. Clarice Swisher. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1996. Reprint from Shakespeare: The Pattern in His Carpet. N.p.: n.p., 1970.    Mack, Maynard. Everybody’s Shakespeare: Reflections Chiefly on the Tragedies. Lincoln, NB: University of Nebraska Press, 1993.    Shakespeare, William. Othello. In The Electric Shakespeare. Princeton University. 1996. http://www.eiu.edu/~multilit/studyabroad/othello/othello_all.html No line nos.

Everyday Use Essay: Sisters with Nothing in Common :: Everyday Use essays

Sisters with Nothing in Common in Everyday Use      Ã‚   When two children are brought up by the same parent in the same environment, one might logically conclude that these children will be very similar, or at least have comparable qualities. In Alice Walker's "Everyday Use," however, this is not the case. The only thing Maggie and Dee share in common is the fact that they were both raised by the same woman in the same home. They differ in appearance, personality, and ideas that concern the family artifacts.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Maggie is not as attractive as Dee. She is a thin and awkward girl. Her mother notes "good looks passed her by" (88). Furthermore, she carries herself like someone with low self-esteem, "chin on chest, eyes on ground" (87). On the other hand, Dee is an attractive woman. Her mother describes Dee as having, "nice hair and a full figure" (87). Dee takes pride in the her appearance. She dresses in fashionable clothes. When Dee arrives for her visit, her mother says, "Even her feet were always neat-looking" (88).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Besides their appearances, Maggie and Dee have unique personalities. When Maggie is first introduced in the story, she is nervous about her sister's visit. In fact, Dee's arrival makes Maggie so uncomfortable that she tries to flee to the safety of the house (88). Maggie is also intimidated by Dee, as shown when Maggie is unable to confront Dee about the quilts. Maggie gives in and says that Dee may have the quilts because she is not used to "winning" (91). Unlike Maggie, Dee is a bold young woman (88). As a young girl, Dee has never been afraid to express herself. Her mother remembers that "she would always look anyone in the eye. Hesitation was no part of her nature" (87). Dee also shows herself to be selfish when she sets her sights on the butter churn. Dee does not seem to care that her family is still using the churn. She states that she will "display part of it in her alcove, and do something artistic with the rest of it" (90).      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The family artifacts are important to both Maggie and Dee, but for different reasons. Maggie values the family quilts for their sentiment and

Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace

1.1 When first attending a construction site, new work operatives will be given an induction so that all they have a clear understanding of their responsibilities along with that of the company. This site induction is specific to the site and provides you with information on the current hazards of the site and tells you about the site rules and regulations you must comply to. Information may include:emergency evacuation & fire procedure safety signage †¢ risk assessments †¢ safe systems of work †¢ organisational procedures †¢ use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) †¢ COSHH (Hazardous Substances) †¢ storage requirements †¢ control measures †¢ waste disposal procedures †¢ reporting procedures site facilities.1.2 The company shall issue you with the appropriate PPE, the basic provision would consist of safety footwear and safety helmet to protect your feet and head respectively from falling objects, Hi visibility clothing to been clearly seen. These are the basic PPE normally worn when on site in accordance with legislation and organisational requirements. The work task may require addition protection as ear defenders / plugs, gloves, safety glasses, masks, respirators , handling equipment.1.3 Health, Safety, Warning and Information signs found throughout worksite and identified as below:Fire equipmentLocation of fire fighting equipment Mandatory Must doA course of action which must be taken Prohibition must notBehaviours that are prohibited Hazard DangerDanger, warning and caution Safe condition InformationEscape routes and safety equipment1.4 Collective protection is equipment which can protect more than one person and, once properly installed or erected, does not require any action by them to make sure it will work. Examples which prevent a fall include, scaffolds, tower scaffolds and cherry pickers which have guard rails and equipment which minimises the consequences of a fall, include nets and airbags. Collecti ve measures have several advantages. They are easier to use, protect everyone at risk in the work area and need less effort in terms of maintenance and Industrial safety helmets, bump caps, hairnets and fire fighters' helmets user training. Personal measures have disadvantages – they require a high level of training and maintenance and they only protect the user.Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE) The needs for PPE are assessed by a person who is competent to judge whether other methods of risk control can offer better protection of safety and health than the Eye protection: Safety spectacles, goggles, face screens, face shields, visors. HazardsChemical or metal splash, dust, projectiles, gas and vapour, radiation Head and neck: Industrial safety helmets, bump caps, hairnets and fire fighters' helmets. Hazards Impact from falling or flying objects, risk of head bumping, hair getting tangled in machinery, chemical drips or splash, climate or temperatureEars: Earplugs, earmuff s, semi-insert/canal caps Hazards Noise – a combination of sound level and duration of exposure, very high-level sounds are a hazard even with short duration Choose protectors that reduce noise to an acceptable level, while allowing for safety and communicationRespiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Used when you might still breathe in contaminated air, despite other controls you have in place e.g. extraction systems When there is short-term or infrequent exposure and using other controls is impractical Whilst you are putting other controls in placeWhen you need to provide RPE for safe exit in an emergency When you need to provide RPE for emergency work or when there is a temporary failure of controlsLocal Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) in your workplace should carry away any harmful dust, mist, fumes or gas in the air to protect your health: It needs to be the right type for the job. It needs installing properly in the first place. It needs regular checking and maintenance through out the year. It needs testing thoroughly at least once every year. It needs an indicator to show it’s working properly.1.5 When carrying out your daily work you must adhere to health and safety measures in accordance with the given instructions which could include safety data sheets, collective protective equipment, signs, notices, barriers, dust and fume ventilation.1.6 Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations, Reach. Codes of Practise. Health & Safety signs / notices placed throughout the worksite.1.7 Having your working area risk assessed, method statements produced, safety & warning signs displayed, all relevant to the occupational area will help the worker carry out their job activities safely and correctly to reduce health & safety risks to himself and those operating within the area.1.8To comply with control measures that have been identified by risk assessments and safe systems of work. You would be required to wear the appropriate PPE, to read and follow safe systems procedures, comply to any health, safety, information and warning signs placed throughout the working site.2.1Following organisational procedures in the workplace, any hazards created by change in circumstances should be reported, these may include a change in weather if working outside such as if rain or frost may make working site areas hazardous with possible slipping on the changing surface area. Staff absence placing undue workload . Work equipment not operating as expected such as dust extraction not clearing air as normal.2.2Typical hazards associated with your working environment could include moving and placing tools and materials in the work area safely, so that they are not causing a trip hazard, obstructing or blocking fire exit doorways. Tools and equipment have been checked for any damage prior their use in conjunction with the correct PPE being worn to avoid the dangers they are prescribed to protect you from. The use of hazardous substances hold its own risks to the user and the environment. users should not leave such substances unattended which could cause harm to other if inadvertently exposed to them. Correct use while wearing the PPE in accordancewith manufactures instructions and following H&S regulations for storage and disposal.2.3 /2.4 http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/lwit/risk-behaviours-tool.htmFall from a ladder Fall through a fragile roof Lifting operations Struck by plant Overturning plant Fall from scaffolding Fall through a roof void Asphyxiation poisoning Crushed by falling excavation MWEP crushing entrapmenthttp://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/lwit/safety-risks.htmExposure to Asbestos Manual Handling Exposure to excessive vibration Exposure to Sillica Exposure to excessive noise3.2 To ensure safe working on site, you will be issued with various informat ion documents in the form of method statements, risk assessments, training notes, manufacturer’s instructions, control measures, reporting procedures etc. once you have read them you will be required to sign as a record for the employer that you have been provided with the documents, have read and understood the information. Therefore if there is any part of the information which you are not unable to interpret properly or understand you must ask for an explanation before signing. Once you have signed you must always comply with the information and instructions provided to ensure safe working practise.3.2 If during the working day there are issues which could compromise health & safety or you could provide information which can help improve the safe working environment or practises then you should feedback this to your supervisor, manager or safety officer.3.3Welfare facilities are provided on site for the benefit of all, so that you may wash and eat in clean and healthy surr oundings. It is each and every person’s responsibility to keep these areas clean and tidy for hygiene purpose. Also if you find that the washroom hygiene items needs replenishing then this should be reported at your earliest opportunity.3.4It is important that PPE is safely stored so that it don’t get damaged when not in use. This applies for any safety control equipment that is not in use is checked and then put in away in safe storage area in accordance with manufactures instructions.3.5There are company policies for the management of all waste materials on site prior to them being taken for recycling. The waste materials are separated and placed into their allocated waste bins. eg timber, metals, chemicals, plastics, cardboard and general waste. The bins are emptied frequently to ensure they don’t over fill and become a safety risk.3.6If a minor accident (minor cuts, abrasions, splinters) occur while carrying out your work duties then this would be dealt with by the company’s first aider and the incident recorded in the accident book.In the case of a accident being a near miss then this must be reported to your supervisor. The incident will be recorded and a new risk assessment conducted to help to reduce the risk of this accident re-occuring.If there is a accident that is much more serious then the emergency services my need to be called upon. In this case work within the area of the accident would have to cease and the Health and Safety Executive informed. They may then have to conduct an investigation and take statements and could even halt work on the site.Should there be a fire within the vicinity of your work, then you will need to raise the alarm immediately and evacuate the site in an orderly fashion to their fire assembly point, where a resister of all personnel whom have checked in onsite will need to be accounted for.3.7 / 3.8 The chart below shows the types of fire extinguishers, their colour code identification and t heir uses on different type of fires.British Standards *BS EN:2 1992 Classification of fires (ISBN 0 580 21356 0): Class A fires involving solid materials, usually of an organic nature, in which combustion normally takes places with the formation of glowing embers Class B fires involving liquids or liquefiable solidsClass C fires involving gases Class D fires involving metals

Genetically Modified Essay

Genetic modification of organisms in a general is a biotechnological process that forces genes to behave according to certain characteristics. Changing characteristics of organisms is based on changing their DNA. It is being used for modifying genes in plants, animals or micro-organisms. One of the places it is often used is with food, in order to improve the nutritious quality, less use of chemicals such as pesticides and adding flavor. Genetically modified food is considere4d one of the modern production improvements and the largest food experiments in the world’s history. Virtually every crop we eat has undergone hundreds of years of genetic modification by farmers and scientist in search of desirable traits. The Benefits of gene technology in terms of food production are enormous. The most common genetically engineered foods contain modifications that make the plants resistant to certain diseases and herbicides, or allow them to produce their own pesticides, thereby eliminating or reducing the need to spray. Genetically modified foods are also being adapted to grown in salty, dry or frosty environments, contain edible vaccines, have a longer shelf life and be more nutritious. Even though there are several benefits to genetically modifying foods, concerns are raised regarding the negative effects caused by the modification. These concerns fall into 3 categories: economics, environmental hazards and human health risks. Environmental damage from genetically modified foods can be caused through various channels, one of the main concerns is the possibility of gene transfer to a non- targeted species. â€Å"By genetically altering crops they can be sprayed throughout the growing season, farmers are now spraying their fields three times a season†. Naturally as the weeds grow more tolerant they pass that trait to the next generation, creating what is commonly referred to as a â€Å"super weed†. Another huge concern is human impact from genetically modified foods. Several dangers have been discovered by humans who consume these foods. People with allergies tend to see an increase in reactions once consuming genetically modified foods. Others form allergies from these foods consumption. As individuals ingest more of these foods their bodily toxicity levels increase, which leads to other potentially serious health problems. Genetically modified foods has negative effect of reproduction systems. There were studies conducted showing animals becoming completely sterile in a matter of weeks, after in gestation of these foods that had to be forced fed to them. The digestive system is where the body is exposed to harmful foods, it grows bigger and reversing the damaging effects is almost impossible. Once all of these harmful things occur within a human’s body that is not designed to handle the outcome will eventually be death. There is a negative impact on biodiversity when the number of organism in the ecosystem is reduced as well as their infractions. The cross areas of genetically identical crops will tip the balance of nature and wildlife, and disrupt surrounding ecosystems. Wild plants up to miles away can be pollinated via wind-blown pollen. Some genetically modified plants may even be toxic to certain insects. Another concern is that genetically modified foods could impact the organic foods industry, this is why environmental agencies closely monitor their use. Although genetically modified foods and crops have huge benefits that may lead to solving world hunger due to the lesser production costs and increased crop yield, the dangers far outweigh them; risks and hazards that are related to it may affect human health, the environment, and society. The advantages of biotechnology prominent now are only short term, consumers should be aware of what they are eating and the health risks they are taking when consuming genetically modified foods. Correct labeling of genetically modified foods should be mandatory in all countries, so that people have their right to decide for themselves whether or not to consume these foods. Strict government controls should be implemented to regulate the planting of these crops. The future well-being of society in the long run should be thought of instead of simply satisfying the needs in the present, otherwise we will have bigger issues on top of the ones we have now.

Immortality

Possibly one of the greatest achievements in life is to attain immortality. Generally, immortality means being able to have eternal life or sustain life for an infinite amount of time. However, for a lot of people, the word can have different meanings if it is viewed from various perspectives. For soldiers or heroes of war, the only way to attain immortality is through fighting in the battlefield. However, contrary to the purpose of immortality which is to sustain life, for soldiers or heroes of war, death is another way to become immortal. Basically, more than receiving honor and glory after a battle or a war, it is also important for soldiers to be remembered. And for some, the best way to do this is to die honorably. Dying in the battlefield makes soldiers heroes almost instantaneously as they are given medals and other posthumous recognitions. Although they are no longer alive, the names and accomplishments of the soldiers who die valiantly and honorably are always glorified and in effect, this makes them immortal. In other words, soldiers who die in battle become immortal as their names are forever imprinted in history. On the other hand, other people believe that immortality can only be attained if they remain young. In this aspect, the concept is that if one stays young, he or she will not acquire age-related diseases or sicknesses which could cause his or her death. While there are a lot of methods and ideas being used to preserve one’s youth, most of them only have temporary effects. For example, one of the most conventional methods to stay young is exercising as studies show that this promotes good circulation of the blood in the body which subsequently results in good health. Although this method does not make a person immortal, it sustains his or youth for a short period of time. However, aside from conventional methods, some people believe that one way to attain immortality is through supernatural or magical means. One example is the legendary fountain of youth which is a spring that restores the youth of any person who drinks from it and is believed to be located in Florida. While modern day society has dismissed the existence of this fountain, certain people still believe in its youth-restoring effects and even drank the water themselves. Moreover, according to the basic concepts of most religions, people are immortal as they possess in them souls or spirits, which never cease to exist. For example, in Buddhism, one of the strongest beliefs is that people go through a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Although Buddhists believe that there is no such a thing as an eternal soul, they still believe that after biological death, a person will still continue to live and attain eternal happiness. On the other hand, in Christianity, the strongest belief regarding immortality is that everyone who dies will eventually be resurrected depending on the â€Å"Final Judgment† of God. Based on this belief, those who are born again after the â€Å"Final Judgment† will live forever or attain immortality. However, for other people, one sure way to attain immortality is to publish a book. Whether it’s a novel, an autobiography, a reference material, the authors of these books can attain immortality as their thoughts and ideas are printed and read by people from all over the world. Even if these authors die, they will still continue to live on through their ideas and stories that have been published in their respective books. Furthermore, for some people, attaining immortality is simply being the first in accomplishing extraordinary feats. For example, Edmund Hilary, who recently died due to a heart attack, became immortal because he was the first to successfully climb Mount Everest. In reality, Hilary was an ordinary person. However, since he was the first to conquer the world’s tallest mountain, he was able to imprint his name in history books and attain immortality. Another venue to attain immorality is sports. In the world of basketball, Michael Jordan was able to achieve immortal status by being named â€Å"the greatest basketball player of all time† by the National Basket Association (NBA). Aside from his legendary stint in the NBA, Jordan has also become a highly successful brand name. Up to his day, kids and even professional basketball players from all over the world continue to idolize Jordan, which further solidifies his immortality. Furthermore, in sports, height is also another way of attaining immortality. In basketball, aside from his superb talents and numerous accomplishments, Magic Johnson is also remembered as the tallest point guard to ever play the game. On the other hand, Shawn Bradley is the tallest player to every play the game. Although in terms of accomplishments, Johnson outweighs Bradley, both their names are already imprinted in history books simply because of their heights. In this regard, fame is also another way of attaining immortality. Like in the case of Jordan, famous people such as rock stars, professional athletes, and actors, among others, are able to attain immortality by simply showcasing their skills and talents in their respective fields or specialties. However, for some, immortality is attained by simple passing on objects, lessons, and other things to younger generations. For example, a father has already attained immortality if he is able to pass on good values to his children, who in turn, pass on the lessons they have learned to their children. Even if the father dies, he will continue to live on through the lessons that he has passed on to his children. In short, immortality is not simply through prolonging life. It can also be achieved if one passes on memories, legacies, and lessons to future generations.

An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge Analysis

Jacob Wilson 14 February 2013 Professor Horan The Bold Farquhar Ambrose Bierce allows the reader to have a glimpse of Peyton Farquhar’s character, while he is on a bridge being prepared to hang by Union soldiers. Farquhar is portrayed as a wealthy, high-class planation owner who is receiving punishment for attempting to destroy the Owl Creek Bridge. While Farquhar does not have an actual affiliation with the Confederate Army due to his high social rank, he does have a prideful obsession with pursuing glory; he only desires the praise that comes with differentiating himself from the rest.Peyton Farquhar is illustrated as a â€Å"well-to-do planter, of an old and highly respected Alabama family. † All of the joys associated with wealth, property, and political power are his, thus he yearns to be recognized as going the extra mile. The simple phrase â€Å"opportunity for distinction† summarizes the meaning behind his quest for even more fame. Peyton will use all res ources available to accomplish this desire. When the â€Å"larger than life† soldier, Peyton Farquhar, is sitting with his wife on his property, an exciting opportunity presents itself following a conversation with a Confederate soldier in disguise.Farquhar is tempted to pursue an honorable act, and that he does. After the soldier explains the situation, Farquhar smiles as he ponders the opportunity, â€Å"Suppose a man—a civilian and student of hanging – should elude the picket post and perhaps get the better of the sentinel . . . what could he accomplish? † The chance of delaying the northern troops is too great a temptation for Peyton to resist. The conceited politician reveals his true pursuit: glory and honor. The wealthy civilian immediately decides to burn the bridge.Farquhar may have better protected his livelihood had he not been so enthused to destroy the bridge. As it turns out, â€Å"That opportunity, he felt, would come, as it comes to all i n war time. Meanwhile he did what he could. No service was too humble for him to perform in aid of the South, no adventure too perilous for him to undertake if consistent with the character of a civilian who was at heart a soldier†. So great was his devotion to the South and his chase for prominence that nothing could get in his way. Armed with a plethora of pride and a fearless spirit, Farquhar is apprehended while attempting to destroy the bridge.The reader is continually reminded of Farquhar’s bravado. He perceives himself well in every aspect that defines a superior human. During the period Farquhar constructs from imagination his escape, while he in is the creek, he praises his accurate shooting. While his method is very sly, upon further investigation it is also very boastful. â€Å"He observed that it was a grey eye and remembered having read that grey eyes were keenest, and that all famous marksmen had them. Nevertheless, this one had missed. † Early in t he story Bierce specifically recognizes that Farquhar has grey eyes.Though it be discreet, it is yet another charge in favor of his selfish pride. The physical features of a man in his mid-thirties are not expected to be pristine, although Farquhar would qualify as an exception. Specific detail is added in two paragraphs deciphering every aspect of his superiority. It is comical that Farquhar is simply experiencing a daydream. Nonetheless, minute details are thought up in his head. â€Å"He was now in full possession of his physical senses. They were, indeed, preternaturally keen and alert.Something in the awful disturbance of his organic system had so exalted and refined them that they made record of things never before perceived. He felt ripples upon the face . . . saw the individual trees, the leaves and veining of each leaf—saw the very insects upon them . . . The humming of the knats that danced above the eddies. † The details may have been so easily described due to a mass of emotions rushing through the brain of the one to be executed, but a large piece of boastfulness again presents itself by the confidence and belief Farquhar still possesses at this point.

Response paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Response - Research Paper Example The book argues that history is being used wrongly, and I tend to agree with the idea. It is time when we find new ways that can bring us to common goals and objectives more so in the modern era where competition has become so stiff (Sandbrook, Richard, and Ali, pg 36) Hunt sees globalization is seen a means to end the world war and tensions. Indeed, world rivalry has been on the rise due to past experiences such as cold war and different ideologies that led to world wars (Sandbrook, Richard, and Ali pg 45. Thus, from the book, globalization provides a new way of how to view ourselves around the globe, they call it the paradigm of the shift. I find the sense of the significance and relevance of the writer’s argument. This is because the sources are just mere shadows in key areas. Thus, we should combine pre-existing social-cultural theories in order to develop new perspectives on history. Hunt sees no harm in globalization as the corrective measures are within us. Religion is one of the virtues that we can apply so that we don’t get immersed with globalization. It is true with religion values since they use societal values that ensure we maintain our norms (Sandbrook, Richard, and Ali, pg 40). Hence even, if we interact, our past is never lost. Another way proposed is by the use of economic ideology. We should embrace the bilateral ties so that we strengthened ties among ourselves. Evolution occurs, and we should not stick to our thoughts alone but to be flexible in our reasoning. That’s what Hunt, suggests to the historians who are held up in their minds. I tend to agree with Hunt. The past will always hold us together; our fate is almost being determined through the actions that even the current generation never participated. But, there are modern ways that can help us to be more cohesive, human and bring justice to ourselves, and there is no reason for us to deny such opportunity However, critics will never seize to exist as part of our

Standard Deviation as a Risk Indicator for Investment Purposes Essay

Standard Deviation as a Risk Indicator for Investment Purposes - Essay Example 41, 2003). However, over the years, many experts and researchers have also tried to point fingers at this approach trying to highlight its serious shortcomings. This paper is an attempt to capture a glance of that debate and critically analyze the use of standard deviation as a risk indicator for investment purposes. Discussion Standard deviation, in finance, is one of the widely used indicators of risk associated with any given security such as bonds, stocks, properties, commodities and others. Standard deviation allows the investors to predict and anticipate the behaviour of the security in the near future (Bhansali, pp. 34-35, 2010). Simply, standard deviation, which is square of the variance, tells the investors that how much they can expect the price of the security to deviate from its mean returns (Brase & Brase, pp. 10-12, 2011). Therefore, securities with high standard are more likely to show violate behaviour but the ones with low standard deviation are more likely to show c onsistent behaviour. Quite understandably, the former type of securities will have a great risk and later would be less risky (Wander & D'Vari, pp. 36, 2003). Investors are interested in the values of standard deviation because that helps greatly in the process of portfolio construction and management. A risk adverse investor will only select a handful of securities high standard deviation in terms of its returns and mix that up with securities having lower standard deviation in order to offset the impact of risk and enjoy stable returns (Gravetter & Wallnau, pp. 22, 2010). First, the biggest and the most important shortcoming of standard deviation as the measure of investment risk is rooted in the fact that it assumes normal distribution of values and they are poor measures of risk when it comes to asymmetric distribution. In normal distribution, the values are distributed equally to both sides of the graph; however, in any asymmetrical distribution one tail of the graph, either po sitive or negative side has greater concentration of values (Brase & Brase, pp. 10-12, 2011). Therefore, standard deviation fails to give an exact picture of the possible variation in the values. Even the father of the concept of financial engineering, Harry Markowitz has admitted, â€Å"Downside variance is more accurate than standard deviation when it comes to financial risk analysis†. This is true because not only many investing portfolios have asymmetrical distribution but their distribution is skewed positively as well (Haslett, pp. 264, 2010; Connor, Goldberg & Korajczyk, pp. 88-89, 2010). Second, like many other statistical measures of risk computation in finance, standard deviation relies heavily on historical data and there is no guarantee that historical trends will continue in the future as well (Brase & Brase, pp. 10-12, 2011). Furthermore, the period undertaken to calculate standard deviation is also of great importance. For example, the standard deviation of sto cks for the period of 2002-2006 may show lower standard deviations for most of the stocks, however, the standard deviation computed over the last five years will show higher standard deviation for many of the stocks (Gravetter & Wallnau, pp. 22, 2010; Brigham & Houston, pp. 74-75, 2009). Therefore, it

Testing and evaluation techniques Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Testing and evaluation techniques - Assignment Example The advantages of oral examinations for the teachers include quick assessment of students’ learning, assessment of students’ confidence, and assessment of the verbal and nonverbal communication skills. On the other hand, some disadvantages of oral examinations include more time consumption as compared to written exams, inefficient for in-depth assessment of students’ learning, and labor-intensiveness. Another negative aspect of oral examinations is that the environment can influence the students, which may result in affecting their ability to communicate effectively with their teachers. Project assignments are also a good way to assess students’ learning. Teachers can give assignments to the students, which they need to solve without getting any sort of assistance from the teachers. The advantages of project assignments for the teachers include proper assessment of students’ ability to do work independently, assessment of individual learning, and assessment of students’ writing skills. On the other hand, some disadvantages of project assignments include increased chances of plagiarism and difficulty in standardizing. However, the disadvantages are not able to overshadow the advantages of project assignments because they make students do something independently, which is very good for the students. Practical examinations are another way to assess students’ learning. In practical examinations, teachers give practical assignments to the students, which they need to complete under observation of their teachers. Practical examinations help teachers evaluate the related behaviors of the students during examination. Moreover, they also help teachers evaluate students’ critical thinking skills, psychomotor skills, and evaluations skills. The disadvantages of practical examinations are somewhat similar to oral examinations. Practical examinations are time consuming, labor-intensive, and difficult to standardize. Teaches can

Separation of Powers Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Separation of Powers - Research Paper Example ght, the method of creating a sense of equal measure and power in which to form a government that serves its people instead of serving power for the sake of power, is indicative of the theories of freedom that drove the framers of the Constitution during its inception. With focus on three specific forms of the checks and balance method of construction, the equality of governance can be examined and assessed. In Article I, Section 8 of the constitution it states that â€Å"The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States; but all duties, imposts and excises shall be uniform throughout the United States† which is followed by, â€Å"To borrow money on the credit of the United States;† (United). According to this clause, the legislative branch of government is responsible for the economic health of the state. The following power allows for the ability for this branch to borrow money on behalf of the United States. This power provides a framework for the government to develop its economic interests and act as an agent of management for the financial considerations of the nation. The business of maintaining and running the nation has been put into the hands of Congress, allowing for the decisions that most directly affect the financial well-being of the country to be considered. Without the actions of the Congress, the employees of government cannot get paid, the budget considerations cannot be met, and the expense of running a country would not have administration. By the use of this power, the Congress has the power to create and oversee the budget, while determining the proper use of the available funds to allocate to needs. With this considerable power, the legislative section of the government has the ability to plot the course of the country in regard to the funding of war, the federal grants to the states for schools and roads,

Waiting for Macedonia by Ilka Thiessen Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Waiting for Macedonia by Ilka Thiessen - Essay Example The author largely presents a positive side of women in Mercedonia, as compared to the view of women in Bosnia, who are presented as peasantry and solely being in the context of marriage (Thiessen, 16). Thiessen tries to challenge the scholars and academicians who have carried out substantial research, yet have ignored the role of women as leaders in bringing about the required change in Macedonia. On the other hand, the film â€Å"Bosnia: we are all neighbors† is the manifestation of the breakdown of the neighborly relationships that existed in Bosnia between the Muslim majority and the Catholics, mostly the Croats. The film, therefore, addresses the mistrust and betrayal developing on religious grounds during the war in Bosnia, leading neighbors to rise against each other with the minority Bosnian Muslims being evicted by the Christians in this specific village. ( Bringa, 1995). The ethnically mixed village in central Bosnia was torn away by war in 1993, and the Muslims’ houses are portrayed to be desolate as a handful of the Muslims return after the effects of the war have subsided. Eventually, the film emerged from a critical research, where Bringa conducted 15 months of field research in the region in 1980s (Bringa, 1995). One aspect evident after the war period is the complete change of lives of the entire Bosnian population. A previously coexisting community of mixed cultures was torn in the middle by the war, where friends became enemies; the war divided even families (Bringa, 1995). It was difficult to go to work, and schools remained closed with children being sent away from homes to areas where parents felt they could be much safer than at home. The film presents total family breakups, as the reality of the war dawns on Bosnian people; the quiet village now has occasional bursts of bombs and gunshots. Men spend most of their time chopping wood, while many women are scared and just wait helplessly to the unfolding dramas. Surprisingly, the people in this region are eager and uncertain of the peace plans; they watch news eagerly and earnestly with growing hope of peace plans (Bringa, 1995). This means people are yearning for their once quiet life. Men cannot gather more than three at any public pl ace; the former members of the Yugoslavian reserves have guns. The previously united and integrated Bosnia is now torn apart, and life is uncertain for as the reality of the war sinks deep. One aspect that contributes to formation of a unified Bosnian state made of different religious practices is the ideology of ‘brotherhood and unity’ and the ‘economic democracy myth’ (Admason and Jovic, 298). The intervention of the United Nations in managing the translation period in the Yugoslav states ensured majority inhabitants and authorities did not victimize the minorities, with all displaced persons being encouraged to return to their previous homes. Bringa (1995) illustrates the returning of the displaced people to be amidst heavy tensions where people were desperately trying to hold on the possibility of coexisting together despite the disturbing tensions and hatred that brewed during the war (Bringa, 1995).

Taxation Statistics Project Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Taxation - Statistics Project Example e telecommunication industry is an average of 11.77% of gross profit, the tax paid by the health care industry is an average of 8.24% of gross profit. We test the hypotheis whether the average for telecommunication is greater than that for health care. Hypothesis: Null hypothesis:H0: B1 = B2 Alternative hypothesis:Ha: B1>B2 Where B1 is the mean percentage tax paid by the telecommunication industry, B2 is mean percentage tax paid by the health care industry.We test the hypothesis that the mean are different using T test, we use the following formula to determine the T calcaulted value: Tcal = (B1 -B2)[(12/ n1 + 12 /n2)] Where is the standard deviation and n is the sample size, wee substitute the formula as follows: Telecommunication Services Health Care tax / gross profit tax / gross profit total 3.298118756 0.57652713 mean 0.117789956 0.082361019 standard deviation 0.045504328 0.020043758 variance 0.002070644 0.000401752 Tcal = (3.298118756 -0.57652713)[(0.002070644/ 28 + 0.000401752 /7)] T calculated is therefore equal to, T cal = 0.011460574 We test this hypothesis at the 95% level of test, a two tail test gives us a critical value of 2.05183, T critical = 2.05183. Decision: In hypothesis testing when the T calcualted value is greater than the T critical value we reject the null hypothesis, and if it is less than the T critical value we accpet the null hypothesis, for this reaons therefore our T calcualted value is less than our T critical value and therefore we accet the null hypothesis that B1 = B2, rejecting the alternative hypothesis that B1>B2. for this reaosn therefore we conclude that tax paid on gross profit by the...On taxes paid health care paid a mean of 1,227.38 in tax while the telecommunication services industry paid a mean of 1,421.34 in taxes, this shows that the telecommunication industry paid a higher tax than health care despite health care recording a higher mean gross profit. From the above we test the hypothesis that Telecommunication Service industry pay more taxes on gross profit than the healthcare service industry, in order to test this hypothesis we calculate the percentage tax paid on gross profit by both industries, the following table sumarises the results: In hypothesis testing when the T calcualted value is greater than the T critical value we reject the null hypothesis, and if it is less than the T critical value we accpet the null hypothesis, for this reaons therefore our T calcualted value is less than our T critical value and therefore we accet the null hypothesis that B1 = B2, rejecting the alternative hypothesis that B1>B2. for this reaosn therefore we conclude that tax paid on gross profit by the Telecommunication Service industry is equal to the tax paid on gross proifit by the healthcare service industry. From the above discussion it si evident that the health care idnustry has a higher mean level of gross profit than the teleommunication idnustry, on tax it is evident that the mean tax paid by the health care industry is lower than the averag

Poverty in the United States Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Poverty in the United States - Research Paper Example Individuals born in the United States usually have better prospects and access to resources than people born in poor societies (Chappell 2010, 45). Thus, they benefit from a better quality of life and bigger earnings. Similarly, impoverished children who reside and go to school in communities with more affluent families will likely have greater opportunities than children who reside in communities where they intermingle only with other impoverished children (Aliprantis & Zenker 2011, 1). This essay tries to discuss the current condition of poverty in the United States by taking into account several factors, particularly the impact of welfare programs on poverty. The American Dilemma The Census Bureau in the United States specifies a group of income thresholds that rely on household composition and size, and members of a household are regarded poor if the overall income of their household is below the correct threshold (Iceland 2003, 20). However, it is important to point out that thi s description computes income before transfers and taxes, and thus there is much disagreement about whether it might be more useful for future assessments to classify poverty as regards to consumption (p. 20). Rates of poverty have fluctuated between 11% and 15% of the population over the recent decades (Aliprantis & Zenker 2011, 1). Statistics from 2010 exhibit a noticeable increase in the rate of poverty during the most recent economic depression (Bishaw 2011, 2-3). Even though the rise was distributed across racial groups, the eventual patterns in poverty differ when divided by race. Figure 1. Percentage of the People Living in Poverty Areas by State: 2006-2010 *graph taken from Bishaw (2011, 3) Prevalence of poverty among the white population have somewhat remained the same over the recent decades. Prevalence of poverty among the Asian population dropped in the latter part of the 1990s and has been the same as that of whites over the recent decades. For instance, the rate of pov erty for the Asian population in 2010 was 12% (U.S. Census Bureau 2010, 694). Poverty rates for the Hispanic and Black populations have differed; although the prevalence of poverty for these populations dropped significantly all over the 1990s, they are situated at a noticeably higher point than other populations (U.S. Census Bureau 2010, 694). As revealing as figures of individual-level poverty are for identifying the earnings accessible to individual members of a household, they fail to generate data about the resources accessible to individuals through their community. This is significant since it is not difficult to think of numerous explanations that the poverty in a specific community might be similarly significant to the poverty of an individual’s household (Aliprantis & Zenker 2011, 2). An impoverished household residing in an affluent community could have greater opportunities for it might have access to more quality education, more accurate and updated information a bout employment availability, or better access to public services than an impoverished family residing in a poor community. Figure 2. Distribution of People by Race and Ethnicity and by Poverty Level of Tracts: 2010 *taken from Bishaw (2011, 7) The United States put into effect in the 1960s one of the most aggressive social policy programs of the 20th century by declaring an all-out ‘

Subjugation of Free

Subjugation of Freedom in One Flew over the Cuckoos Nest Essay The Subjugation of Freedom in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Ken Kesey’s book, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, is a multi-faceted work incorporating many thematic elements. One of the most easily addressable themes is that of freedom and its limitations placed upon the characters in the novel. Many types of freedoms are addressed ranging from the tangible and real to the perceived and implied. The setting primarily takes place in a mental hospital on a locked ward which limits the characters’ physical freedoms. The characters are constantly coerced and demeaned by the antagonist Ms. Ratched which limits their mental freedoms. Beneath all is a subtext of sexual repression which is constantly fought against by McMurphy. Individually, each of these subjugations might be tolerated given exclusions to the others, but together they weigh down the men to the point where their complete lack of freedom almost becomes a comfort. Mental hospitals are typically secure facilities intended to provide a place for patients, whose symptoms range from minor to severe, to be secured and not be a danger to the rest of society while treatment is applied. The manner in which the patients are described in the story indicates that they are not severe mental cases but are those who are unable to function in society at large due to idiosyncrasies and minor hang-ups, yet they are housed in a ward where they are kept under lock and key, their movement is restricted to one day-room, and their activities are on a strictly regulated time-table. Most of the men have given up their physical freedom voluntarily with the expectation of treatment, mental healing and the eventual release back into society. McMurphy, on the other hand, was committed by the state and his sentence depends on the opinion of the Big Nurse, though he doesn’t realize this right away. Nurse Ratched does not resort to physical touch herself and instead uses the three ward aides to perform her physical brutality for her. McMurphy’s eventual goal is to get the other men out of the ward as much as possible because they have become too accustom to it. To do so all at once would likely be too great a shock so McMurphy starts inside the hospital with simply moving the group to another day room. Gradually, they are able to spend more time out of the ward with activities like basketball and the pool. The culmination of their unconventional therapy is the fishing trip where the men re-learn what real life outside the hospital can be like. Nurse Ratched doesn’t resort to physicality with the patients. She much prefers mental control and the main focus for her efforts of control. She has become a master of subtlety and misdirection. Before McMurphy arrives she has the men eager and willing to tattle on each other for tiny rewards. This information is then used in group therapy sessions where the idea is that the men can rely on each other for strength and the group will help lift them up, grow stronger and heal. What actually happens is each man takes it in turn to be attacked by the others for their faults. This is all orchestrated masterfully by Nurse Ratched who has but to ask a few simple pointed questions to get the fire burning. When she isn’t using the men’s own minds against them she drugs them to keep their thoughts slow, to keep them unmotivated and to keep them calm. Also in her arsenal is the threat of maximum mental punishment through shock therapy and lobotomy. Her technique is so perfectly insidious that the men work their hardest to please her to the detriment of each other and ultimately their own selves. She is able to perpetually keep the men in a state where they believe they need her and the hospitals help. Sex is used in the novel as a representation of total freedom. Its exercise is almost always portrayed by McMurphy who, through his general demeanor and newness to the hospital, is the most free, sexually, of any of the men. He is so free, that it has gotten him into trouble as he only seems to be able to act on impulse. Society is not able to deal with his complete abandon and he is eventually punished for it by having a piece of his brain removed. The rest of the men are all repressed mostly due to some problem they’ve had with the women in their lives. In fact, it is their inability to deal with women that brought them to the hospital in the first place. Women are portrayed throughout the book as the root of all men’s problems. Nurse Ratched is the penultimate figure of sexual repression. She does not acknowledge her femininity but hides it successfully, but for her bosom, beneath her sterile, pressed uniform. She is cold toward the men offering no real compassion and serves only to aggravate the men’s issues with women in general. Her power is finally stripped from her, quite literally, when McMurphy rips open her uniform revealing her breasts, the symbol of femininity; she is a woman after all. Limiting or removing freedom boils down to control. Those who restrict freedoms wish to exercise control upon those whose freedoms have been infringed. In the story, the restriction of all freedoms is personified and executed by the â€Å"Big Nurse,† Ms. Ratched. She symbolizes all forms of repression and is the face of the societal machine, whose purpose is to remove individuality and replace self-restraint with group shame. The implication Kesey suggests is that when a person isn’t free to move, free to think, or free to love then they cannot be a valuable, functioning member of society. Works Cited Kesey, Ken. One Flew over the Cuckoos Nest, a Novel. New York: Viking, 1962. Print.