Monday, December 30, 2019

Religion And Its Impact On Religion Essay - 1928 Words

Over the course of the semester, various types of religions and practices have been discussed. Religion has proven to be one of the oldest of human customs and many a time is formed on supernatural basis. Yet various similarities emerge in its literary usage, customary practices and societal impact. I argue that although religion is generally regarded as a scared aspect of a group and is sometimes used for narrative, explanatory and preservation purposes within these texts; it has been manipulated to serve and cover up the ideologies and practices of its followers. These ideologies and practices would on the most part be regarded as wrong not only on a contemporary basis, but also to those at the opposite end of its effects. First, the development of religion must be laid out. Religion, for the most part, began with animism. In this practice, inanimate objects are regarded as holy and subsequently worshiped. Herodotus provides a prime example of animism with Xerxes. â€Å"†¦he was travelling along this road Xerxes came across a plane-tree/ which was so beautiful that he presented it with golden decorations/ and appointed one of the Immortals a guardian to look after it.† Herodotus: (Book 4, paragraph 31). Xerxes comes upon a strange tree and judges it as holy and even calls on a god to protect it. This can lays the underlining basis for how animism can be explained: people associate objects to be of divine semblance and virtue due to properties they possess. Religion then took aShow MoreRelatedReligion And Its Impact On Religion2442 Words   |  10 PagesReligion is one of the most important components of culture which has been used in understanding the universe, natural phenomena, what to die for and how to dwell among other people. Religion can be considered as culture by itself because it provides the set of values, beliefs and guidelines for specific behavior (Samovar, Porter, McDaniel Roy, 2013, p.40). Religion helps to control the social behavior, maintains conflict, supports emotions and gives explanations to unexplainable. Some AfricanRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Religion Essay1277 Words   |  6 PagesReligion can be one of the most controversial topics in conversation due to difference of opinion not to mention beliefs. People have individualism, free will, and culture that determines the way to live life as well as perspectives about the afterlife. Wars have continued through centuries over religious perspectives and dissimilar beliefs even though there are many similar traits within major religions worldwide. Time continues to move although lives are lost over mistrust, hate and divide ofRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Religion Essay1199 Words   |  5 Pageswe have defined religion as a system of believes particularly belief in a God or gods. The problem with this is that we categorize too much under the umbrella of religion that does not fit under this category; as Craig Martin argues in, A Critical Introduction to the Study of Religion, â€Å"The colloquial use groups together d issimilar things. All of those things we call ‘religions’ simply do not share a set of core properties†. We tend to define Catholicism when asked to define religion. Many very educatedRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Religion1803 Words   |  8 Pagesnot god is real, but instead it is going to focus on religion and its followers. Religion has existed for thousands and thousands of years. Likewise, there are thousands of very different religions all over the world. Religion has slowly attached itself like a parasite into societies everyday life. It has connected and comforted many people over the years, but is religion actually useful anymore? The answer to that is a definite no. Religions have fought for years attempting to establish their dominanceRead MoreReligion s Impact On Religion1636 Words   |  7 Pageshave increased dramatically over the past few decades, religious numbers have been down. Religion has been a major part of people’s lives since the beginning of human existence. What if religion died off? How would people live? This is an important topic because it shows how science has proved religion wrong. Multiple studies have been conducted over the years to see if science really has an effect on religion and how people that believe in science compare to the people that do not; such as surveyingRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Society1699 Words   |  7 PagesFor the past centuries religion has been a major force in the world and still continues to be one as there are billions of people that believe and follow a certain religion, but sadly religion has had a largely negative impact on the world today. As people continue to view religion in an unrealistic positive manner they continue to be deceived about its negative impact. During recent years there have been many headlines about how religion influenced people in performing terrible acts that oppressRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Society1163 Words   |   5 PagesReligion has created major turmoil in America. Every night on the news, specialists elaborate more and more about the candidates and their ideas. Many of the most controversial issues are refugees, terrorism, and abortion; all of which all have aspects dealing with religion. This is a sharp contrast to the supposed â€Å"separation† of church and state in America, since citizens are electing the next president based on his religion-based opinions. These opinions are often altered through the instantaneousRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Society910 Words   |  4 PagesNot a single person would define religion, in their own words, the same as anyone else. James Martineau, an English philosopher influential in the history of Unitarianism, once said â€Å"Religion is the belief in an ever living God, that is, in a Divine Mind and Will ruling the Universe and holding moral relations with mankind.† Many different people see religion in many different ways. Relig ion has been an important place in the history of civilization. It gives a meaning and purpose to human life andRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Society1343 Words   |  6 Pagescirculation religion has been a part of society that has always been there. But is this idea of rules and regulations enforced by a belief system really helpful to society? In a world without religion would there be less wars, hatred, and discrimination? With so many people involved or affiliated with religion it is important to explore deeper into the negative impact that religion has on society and try to make the world a better place with information that will help all. At a personal level religion fulfillsRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On The Environment1452 Words   |  6 PagesReligion and Its Impact on the Environment There are numerous religions in society, and they all differ in some way. However, most religions believe that humans have dominion over the earth and what inhabits it. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but the majority of people who believe this misinterpret it as permission to treat the environment however they want. In order for the environment to improve, as well as quality of life; humans must make a commitment to be good stewards of the earth.

Sunday, December 22, 2019

Ethical Nursing - 1709 Words

The aim of this essay is to discuss an ethical issue encountered whilst on placement. The discussion will focus on the influence of the key ethics theories of deontology and utilitarianism, ethics principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice on decision-making in practice. It will consider the patients’ and staffs’ values and beliefs, legislation and professional practice. Confidentiality will be respected by using a pseudonym, Carol, in accordance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council [NMC] (2008) guidelines on confidentiality. Carol, a 56 year old lady, was going through the menopause and was admitted to the gynaecology ward in hospital in the north west of England with symptoms of extreme lower abdominal pain and†¦show more content†¦Carol is an able-minded, 56 year old lady, who has been involved in the Jehovah’s Witness beliefs and values for a number of years. She is capable of making such a decision after being made completely aware of the situation, including the pros and cons of her decision. Non-maleficence is the obligation to do no harm. Beneficence, simply means to do good, and is having the quality to be kind and considerate. Upon looking at these theories as a whole, there is no doubt about a conflict between these principles. Many moral problems faced by nurses stem from conflicts between obligations generated by the principle of respect for autonomy, against obligations generated by the principles of non maleficence and beneficence. Treating a patient against their specific wishes applies to carols case. Autonomy can sometimes not be respected, with certain constraints such as the urge to act beneficently. In Carol’s case, this would be to transfuse if there was no other solution during her surgery/ aftercare, and it would be for the good of Carol, and acting in a way as to not harm her further (non maleficence). The nurse’s role is to assist the patient in making informed and appropriate decisions, in accordance to their own values or lifestyles (C hadwick Tadd, 1992). This means that morally no blood transfusion should take place as it is the patient’s decision thatShow MoreRelatedEthical Dilemma In Nursing1599 Words   |  7 Pageschoose between the two because both choices have their advantages and disadvantages. This is an ethical dilemma. An ethical dilemma involves morals that clash between each other, and some involve the legal aspect of the choices (Grohar- Murray). Everyone faces some sort of ethical dilemma. There are some professions that have to battle ethical dilemmas every day. Amongst those professions the nursing occupation and other healthcare related titles have to keep in mind several different laws, rulesRead MoreEthical Issues in Nursing1054 Words   |  5 PagesEthical Issue in Nursing Name: Jackson vrail Class: NR 504 Professor: Dr. Gre Date: 06/02/2012 School: CCN THE ETHICAL ISSUES IN NURSING Ethics can be defined as a moral decision of what it is, and what it ought to be. Ethical issuesRead MoreEthical and Legal Issues in Nursing1221 Words   |  5 PagesEthical and Legal Issues in Nursing University of Phoenix Nursing 391 Ethical and Legal Issues in Nursing Marianne, the 79-year old woman who presented with a hemorrhagic stroke in a recent case study, brings up thought for ethical debate. Her outlook is poor, with or without surgery, and she has no advanced directive. Her husband and children cannot come to an agreement on whether life support should end or if all resuscitative measures should be attempted. The following paper will discussRead MoreThe Ethical Dilemma Of Pediatric Nursing1204 Words   |  5 PagesIn pediatric care, nurses are regularly faced with situations where they must make ethical decisions that impact them and their patients. An ethical dilemma occurs when the options for a solution present both favorable and unfavorable outcomes (Burkhardt Nathanial, 2008). In pediatric nursing, ethical dilemmas arise when there are conflicting views on how course of treatment should be perused. If a patient’s wishes conflict with others, nurses help resolve the conflict (American Nurses AssociationRead MoreEthical an d Legal Issues in Nursing956 Words   |  4 PagesETHICAL AND LEGAL ISSUES OF Nursing Many confusing factors make it a task to establish, monitor and sustain ethical and legal issues in nursing. Everyone has various personal views based on experiences of life, religion, education and political affiliations, all nurses should be aware about nursing laws and ethics and understand how nursing legal issues can affect them. The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics is very influential to nurses because it is used as a framework for makingRead MoreEthical Issues And Nursing Relevance922 Words   |  4 PagesEthical Issues and Nursing Relevance The modern nature of telehealth has created a dialogue about ethical issues and its relevance to nursing, specifically advance practice nursing. Preserving the nurse-patient relationship is an ethical issue that remerges. This ethical factor can be especially relevant to nursing practice and patient outcomes. It can be argued that it is not feasible to make discriminate and safe judgment calls remotely, especially ones requiring the advanced practice nurse toRead MoreEthical Principles in Nursing Essay734 Words   |  3 PagesThere are five principles to ethical nursing. The first principle, nonmaleficence, or do no harm, it is directly tied to a nurses duty to protect the patients safety. This principle dictates that we do not cause injury to our patients. A way that harm can occur to patients is through communication failures. These failures can be intentional or as a result of electronic or human error. Failing to convey accurate information, giving wrong messages, and breakin g down of equipment, can cause harmRead MoreEthical Dilemmas Of Nursing Practice1763 Words   |  8 PagesI will explore an ethical dilemma that may arise within my nursing practice. I have presented a narrative, from the article â€Å"A Dilemma in the Emergency Room†, that portrays an ethical situation involving patient confidentiality. I will focus on Standard IV: Ethical Practice of the College of Registered Nurses of British (CRNBC) as well as the other (CRNBC) Standards of Practice to further evolve my understanding of the ethics involved within the professional practice of nursing. FROM 110? Read MoreLegal And Ethical Issues Of Nursing1993 Words   |  8 Pages Legal and Ethical Issues in Nursing NSG 4070 Week 5 Assignment 2 South University Clark, S. â€Æ' Introduction Judie has been a faithful employee for the past ten years of the hospital she is employed at. For several months, Judie has been experiencing feelings of frustration and dissatisfaction in her position as nurse manager. Her concerns are both for her professional career as well as how it directly impacts her personal life. Judie feels that the organization is demanding moreRead MoreThe Ethical Dilemma Of The Nursing Profession3196 Words   |  13 PagesIntroduction Although the nursing profession is based on caring for patients, there are scenarios that arise that test the nurse’s ability to make decisions that are beneficial for the patients. There can be situations that are simple and the decision is clear. However, there are scenarios that many nurses encounter that challenge their personal, professional, ethical values and principles along with addressing laws. It becomes a mental battle to decide which value and principle is the best option

Saturday, December 14, 2019

A Divided World and a Divided Self Free Essays

Synge’s Playboy of the Western World is essentially a play of opposites. The tension between tradition and individualism is the active force that drives the characters toward the comic conflict. Shawn and Christy embody the masculine half of this equation while Pegeen Mike and the widow Quinn exemplify the feminine. We will write a custom essay sample on A Divided World and a Divided Self or any similar topic only for you Order Now Interestingly, the conflicts of the characters in isolated situations throw a brighter light on their motives than when secondary characters are present in the scene. While much of the play’s actual humor derives from the chorus-like responses of subordinate characters (notably when the pub patrons question Christy about his father’s supposed murder), the inner lives of the four main characters are explored in greater detail in direct dialogue exchanges. For this reason, it is important to consider Playboy of the Western World as a psychological as well as a social inquiry into the early 20th century Irish mind. The moral, social and familial institutions at work in the lives of the characters are inseparable from the behavior of the characters themselves and their behavior, in turn, affects the ways they perceive and challenge the institutions that establish a collective social identity. Synge’s satire, then, is fundamentally subversive. By undercutting a prevalent strain of Irish romanticism Synge effectively exposes the difference between the real and the ideal in Irish opinions about their own history and customs. The influence of religion is at the heart of Synge’s concern. Shawn’s reluctance to stay with Pegeen Mike overnight testifies to his fear of the priest’s, and by extension, the community’s censure. This is confirmed when he admits, â€Å"I’m afeard of Father Reilly; and what at all would the Holy Father and the Cardinals of Rome be saying if they heard I did the like of that?† Shawn is unable to take the passionate leap in terms of his affection for Pegeen Mike, being overly concerned with outward appearances. Though his presence at the pub overnight will not be breaching social etiquette in any way immediately revealed by the opinions of the pub house patrons, he worries about the possibility that some vague â€Å"other† will entertain harsh opinions. For this reason, Shawn is repeatedly unable to take a stand for what he purportedly desires—marriage to Pegeen Mike. While religion is key, Shawn also demonstrates a pronounced avoidance to action of any kind. He is fearful of what he perceives as Christy’s passionate and unpredictable nature. The threat of violence is abhorrent to Shawn. However, his pacifism is not the result of moral objection but rather a product of physical cowardice. Christy, in contrast, is not concerned with the price of taking extreme action. Despite his meek exterior, his story of parricide is told with earnest, and he behaves first in such a way that he seems shell shocked by committing the murder. Later, of course, this turns into something else, when he begins to celebrate his action as proof as his own manliness. This is an important turn in the play because he moves from a fear of the social judgment of his illegal and immoral action into a defiant assertion of his own individualism. This shift occurs because he senses the positive (and perverse) effect his reputation as a murder has on the members of the community in general and on Pegeen Mike in particular. Once Christy recognizes the advantages he has when perceived as â€Å"dangerous† he quickly adopts a romantic and celebratory posture. His pride in the matter is exactly what sets him up for his serio-comic fall when his father, the elder Mahon, appears miraculously â€Å"raised† from the dead. Another pair of characters defined by their opposing views is that of Pegeen Mike and the Widow Quin. Their pronounced division is related to domesticity. While the Widow Quin is perceived as an outsider and generally shunned by the community, she is more of a realist. This is evidenced when Mahon arrives and the widow does not reject Christy as a potential love interest. As an older and more mature woman, the Widow Quin is not as easily swayed by the romantic appeal Christy’s story of murder offers. She is more interested in his companionship and status as a help-mate. She is eminently practical. Pegeen Mike, however, is far different. For the twenty year old barmaid, the idea of a savage killer for a husband is alluring. Shawn’s proposal disgusts her when compared to that of Christy because he lacks the essential brutishness that defines her idea of an appropriate mate. Consider the hastiness of her words when she says, â€Å"Wouldn’t it be a bitter thing for a girl to go marrying the like of Shaneen, and he a middling kind of a scarecrow, with no savagery or fine words in him at all?† She is not concerned with the pragmatic reality of what it means to be married to a man who has defied the law. Her head is full of high romance and flattered by Christy’s sentimentally poetic use of language. How to cite A Divided World and a Divided Self, Papers

Friday, December 6, 2019

Including Accessibility Promotional Benefits-Myassignmenthelp.Com

Question: Discuss About The Including Accessibility And Promotional Benefits? Answer: Introducation The rise of digital technologies and its integration into the world of film have been well analysed in the past to understand its potential implications on a wider aspect. With this advancement, there has been the advancement of availability of three-dimensional space and sound in the production of cinemas. Films today have a vast difference with that of old times. The shift from the physical film into the digital has eventually prompted the film industry to witness a massive change that is outright comprehensive. However, it is to be noted that though such a change has occurred, some personalities making films in the contemporary era express grief and are lamented (Dix 2016). In the present essay the author argues that though the film industry is embracing the use of digital technology and is open to the shift from physical film to digital, there is a tendency to mourn this change. The essay would first carry out an assessment of the argument that comes forward in association to fil m production and its flexibility and affordability. The purpose would be to highlight the benefits of the same. There would be an elaboration of the same through evaluation of the means of distribution including accessibility and promotional benefits. The film Godzilla would be analysed for supporting the arguments. According to Locke (2016) since the change in film making is not a representation of the fundamental break from audiovisual and cinematic history, the present film making signifies the integration of the association between digital technologies and past cinematic techniques. As technology is being perceived to be increasingly advanced, the tendency is now to utilise digital film making techniques at the optimal. Film makers are confronted with the chances of elimination of celluloid with the entry of digital technology. Metz and Britton (2016) support this idea and state that filmmakers are moving directly into digital forms of hardware and software as a contrast to celluloid since this permits a more efficient, faster and easier process of picture making. In addition, digital media also has the capability to bring enhancement in the experiences of the audience due to the better quality image as well as sound. It is to be noted that the recent change has been responsible for elicitin g a celebration of the present technology and an essence of reminiscence of the past. The possible benefits and advantages of digital cinema are constantly being recognised, and filmmakers are utilising these as per their suitability. It is, therefore, to be stated that the industry is going through a phase of both uncertainty and curiosity for the coming future, and grieving for what has been left behind. A logical solution would perhaps be attained if the past is admired and the new culture is clinched on to. Change is a natural process, and there is not denial in that. As per the discussion put forward by Bordwell and Thompson (2013) the primary reason why some film makers at the present time are in staunch support of the modern day technology is that there is a chance of lower production cost when a comparison is done with physical film. The cost of film making mainly revolves around costs for special effects and talent costs. Due to the fact that actors who are well-recognised and famous can raise awareness about the film and contribute to increased public connection, filmmakers consider it a valuable option to provide them with huge fees. Such an example is appointing actor Aaron-Taylor Johnson for the famous film Godzilla where the actor had to be paid a large sum of money. He charges such a high amount since he is famous and well known in Hollywood as well as across the world and has been attracting a large section of the viewers. The impact of this is a lower risk of incurring a loss from the film making. In addition, since audiences prefer s pecial effects and realism, fil makers spend a decent amount on special effects and realistic sets. The film Godzilla had most of its content based on special effects and computer-generated images (CGI). Nevertheless, the movie has instilled within itself an essence of the past. The movie has its opening credit involving footage involving nuclear tests in the previous black and white format, taking us back to the era of the 1950s. It then cuts the shot to 1999 where the scenes revolve around the skeletonised carcass of Godzilla. The scenes show, at present times, the return of Ford to home from the US navy (Dew, 2014). Though there is a sense of nostalgia through the scenes of past, the use of modern technology is there. The rationale behind this is low production cost. The second factor that comes into focus in this discussion is the flexibility of the production. The reason for grieving for the celluloid and death of physical film is the flexibility of the production of films. It is to be objectified in here that inclusion of modern medium might have given rise to visual effects that are efficient and spectacular; however, the shading palette and rich texture of the images could not be overtaken (Child 2016). The novice technology has permitted merging of movie making techniques. Creation of special effects and editing of these is now easier by rewriting, reshooting and restaging. The movie making process has, therefore, become more accessible and revisable. Filmmakers at the present time are showing keenses to produce digital films. A live example is a movie Godzilla. The main character Joe contrasts with Ford as Ford is not keen to recall the past while Joe is not able to overcome the grief of losing his wife. The movie has attempted to showcase the concept that it is completely explicable to get back into the past. However, the present too holds much importance since digital use brings into focus the past too. Moreover, digital technology permits an absence of all the actors in a simultaneous manner. The green screen has enabled actors to act out as per the script in front of it after which that is put against the required pictorial environment. In the movie Godzilla, the scene where Ford has to encounter Godzilla and MUTO has been completely done in a digital studio. The digitalisation of the scenes has been prominent in here (Dew 2014). Burch (2014) study that another prime reason behind the rapid integration of digitalisation into films and the wide support given to the elimination of physical filming technique is a better distribution of films. As the authors suggest, there has always been a huge interest in attracting the public through advertisements. The industry has wide potential, starting from early times, to advertise and market the products. The realism of modern that films, that are uncanny, are used as a tool for increasing the interests of the public as this tool is amazing with a promotional function. Film makers can now distribute the films through different platforms such as television trailer and YouTube channel. These channels have made capacities to go viral and form the base for mass consumption of the films. Media publicity for the film is quite high. In Godzilla, Fords son is found to watch television to see destruction being done by Godzilla (Dew 2014). This is a reflection of the fact that be tter distribution of information is an outcome of digital technologies. Although the use of advanced and modern day technologies is imperative, the utilisation of old media cannot be denied. The last section of the discussion would highlight sustainability and cost-effectiveness of distribution. There is more convenience in distributing digital films. As stated by Kerrigan (2017) cost saving has become a chief incentive of embracing the change. The two most common delivery system is shipping by hard disk nd streaming through internet cable or satellite link. While new technologies are used, the traditional methods are also there. In the movie Godzilla, the time of loading of vintage nuclear test footage by Serizawa is shown by a videocassette recorder in the opening credits (Cheney 2014). Distribution of films might be convenient through modern methods as there is a negligible loss of information when transfer is through computer media. However, distribution through shipping ensures that a broader mass is communicated and reached up to for the distribution purpose. Overall, digital movies allow essential conversions in connection with film distribution due to cost effect iveness. The above essay gives rise to the conclusion that there is an evident struggle between embracing the present day technology and moving forward from the past. Due to the fact that the concept of modern day technology is widely complicated and multivalent, this transition has both positive and negative aspects to it. Despite the fact that a number of film makers are grieving the celluloid era and not in a position to embrace the change, the change is here to stay. This can be attributed to the change in film distribution and production process. The amalgamation of embracing the modern technology and nostalgic feeling can be successfully understood from the famous film Godzilla. This film marks the coming together of both the eras. All must agree to the fact that for remaining successful in the modern times, one must be ready to embrace the coming changes. References Bordwell, D. and Thompson, K., 2013.Film art: An introduction. McGraw-Hill. Burch, N., 2014.Theory of film practice. Princeton University Press Cheney, A., 2014. Godzilla director: the film takes itself very seriously. Child, B., 2016. Steven Spielberg warns VR technology could be'dangerous' for film-making. Dew, S., 2014. Godzilla. Film. Directed by Gareth Edwards. A Legendary Pictures Production, 2014.Religious Studies Review,40(4), pp.217-217. Dix, A., 2016.Beginning film studies. Oxford University Press. Kerrigan, F., 2017.Film marketing. Routledge. Locke, J. W., 2016. The end of cinema?: a medium in crisis in the digital age. Metz, C. and Britton, C., 2016.Psychoanalysis and cinema: The imaginary signifier. Springer.

Friday, November 29, 2019

VATICAN CITY A Vatican Panel Issued A Stinging Condemnation Of Huma Essay Example For Students

VATICAN CITY A Vatican Panel Issued A Stinging Condemnation Of Huma Essay n cloning Tuesday and warned against the misuse of genetic information. Human cloning, it said, represents a grave attack on the dignity of conception and on the right to an unrepeatable, unpredetermined set of genes. The Pontifical Academy on Life also warned that using genetic information to suppress malformed or diseased embryos and fetuses amounts to a new form of selective eugenics. We will write a custom essay on VATICAN CITY A Vatican Panel Issued A Stinging Condemnation Of Huma specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now The statement came at the end of the academys three-day conference at the Vatican. The report wrapped up a year of study on the potential effects of current research into human genetics. The Vatican has in the past called for a ban on human cloning and also forbids abortion. People should be conceived and born in a human way, it has said. In an earlier report, the academy said human cloning would not result in identical souls because only God can create a soul.

Monday, November 25, 2019

The Bluest Eye Essays - The Bluest Eye, Pecola, Beauty, Blue Eyes

The Bluest Eye Essays - The Bluest Eye, Pecola, Beauty, Blue Eyes The Bluest Eye Beauty is something that a lot of people in life strive for, because everyone has fitted in their mind what exactly beauty is. People know that it can help you out in life. But what most people dont know is that, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Meaning that beauty should not be characterized by what people are told it is, beauty is different for everyone, what is beautiful for you may be ugly to someone else. The characters in Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye are confronted with the ideal of beauty and strive for it whether they know it or not. The two characters that I think were followed the ideal of beauty in Toni Morisons story are Pauline and Pecola. In Toni Morrisons story and in real life, beauty is described by people as having blond hair, blue eyes , perfect figure, etc. Its been said that if you have good looks, you can make it in life with just looks alone. People only strive for becoming beautiful because they want attention. As is the case in Toni Morrisons story. The characters in her story think that they are ugly, by others opinions of them, and want to become beautiful so they will be recognized and be the center of attention. But the harder both characters try, the worse things get. Pauline strived for beauty because she wanted to attention and wanted to be beautiful. Pauline seemed to have just worse case of bad luck, when she was a child she stepped on a nail and she was left with a limp forever. The wound left her with a crooked, archless foot that flopped when she walked (110). She tried to put that behind her but she lost three middle teeth, not all the same time but slowly. It wasnt because her teeth were rotten the tooth just fell out. I was sitting back in my seat, and I taken a big bite of that candy, and it pulled a tooth right out of my mouth. I could of cried. I had good teeth, not a rotten one in my head. I dont believe I ever did get over that (123). After trying so hard to become beautiful and things going bad the harder she tried, she just gave up. Pecola strived for beauty throughout the whole book, she knew that people though she was an ugly child. So she thought if she had blue eyes, things would be different and she would be recognized and become beautiful. Pecola, being a child, did not know that her wish was just not possible. But she was a kid and didnt know any better. She figured that if she had blue eyes like Maurine Pie, she would be popular and beautiful. Pecola asked Soaphead Church for blue eyes, and he told he would. Although Pecola never really got blue eyes, she thought she did and it was enough to fulfill her needs. In Conclusion, the characters did not achieve the beauty they desired. Pauline gave up on her quest to become beautiful, the harder she tired the worse things got. Pecola did not really get her blue eyes, although she thought she got them and that was fulfilling for her. If the characters had not worried about becoming beautiful, I think they would have been better of in the end.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

International Accounting Regulations Assignment

International Accounting Regulations - Assignment Example FRS 10 defines the classes of intangible assets that would be covered by the provisions. These intangible assets may include â€Å"licenses. Quotas, patents, copyrights etc and also other assets that are capable of being disposed of or settled separately without disposing of the entity.† (Neil D. Stein 1998)FRS 10 defines the classes of intangible assets that would be covered by the provisions. These intangible assets may include â€Å"licenses. Quotas, patents, copyrights etc and also other assets that are capable of being disposed of or settled separately without disposing of the entity.† (Neil D. Stein 1998)However, FRS 10 has left certain important issues in connection with the intangible assets vague that makes the provisions unserious about the objective it intends to accomplish.  Ã‚  Ã‚  FRS 10 has the following shortcomings which have made the treatment of goodwill and other intangible assets favorable to the firms:†¢ FRS 10 gives the firms the liberty to carry through the value of the goodwill or other intangible assets permanently at the purchased cost. This vitiates the chances of the true and fair valuation of the intangible assets as shown in the financial statements.†¢ Although there are provisions governing the impairment of the value of the intangible assets, the impairment process as detailed in the FRS 10 and FRS 11 are highly subjective and devoid of clarity. This allows the firms to postpone the impairment of the intangible assets as long as they want on the plea that the valuation and impairment procedure is costly and cumbersome.†¢ Moreover, the treatment of the negative value of the goodwill under FRS 10 does not follow normal accounting practices.†¢ The provisions of the Companies Act 1985 are not taken into account while allowing the goodwill to be carried for an indefinite period.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Alzheimer's Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Alzheimer's - Research Paper Example During the autopsy the doctor noted dense deposits of neuritic plaques surrounding nerve cells and twisted bands of nerve fibers inside the cells. The presence of plaques and tangles during a brain autopsy is now taken as a definitive diagnosis of the condition. There have been several additional researches that have been carried out by scientist around the world since the discovery of the disease. In the 1960s researchers found connectivity between the cognitive decline and the number of plaques and tangles present in the brain. Since the 1970s scientists have made major discoveries pertaining to the complex functioning of the nerve cells in these patients and also with increasing developments in the field of genetics, genes responsible for susceptibility to this disease both in the early stages and later in life have also been unraveled. Apart from the genetic factors other lifestyle related and environmental risk factors are also being widely being explored (A History, 2009; Alzhe imer’s disease, 2010). Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and before the symptoms are noticed sufficient damage to the brain would have already taken place. Studies reveal that this damage could occur anywhere between 10 to 20 years before the onset of the clinical signs and symptoms. Beginning with the development of tangles within the entorhinal cortex and plaques in other regions of the brain, the disease affects the functioning of neurons that eventually results in lost communication between the brain cells. When such damage occurs within the hippocampus region of the brain as the disease progresses, it affects the memory and processing skills of the individual (Alzheimer’s disease, 2010). Thus most prominent early sign of the disease is memory loss (Alzheimer’s disease, 2010; Alzheimer’s symptoms, 2009; Symptoms, 2009). Other common early symptoms include confusion, attention disorders, personality changes, difficulty with languages

Monday, November 18, 2019

Greek city states rise and influence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Greek city states rise and influence - Essay Example The very emergence of Sparta is in large-part concealed from history, but its later rise is well documented in Greek literature and historical accounts. The very emergence of Spartan power and influence is historically linked to their military conquests. The earliest recorded evidence of Sparta arises in around 1000 B.C., but it wasn’t until the 6th century B.C. that Sparta began to gain considerable influence and power within Greece (Morris). This period of time is referred to as the Monolithic period. During this period Sparta gradually gained influence through military conquests. In these regards, there are a number of critical battles that greatly contributed to Sparta’s hegemonic power. One of the major conquests in these regards was Sparta’s overtaking of neighboring Tegea, which was one of the most powerful of the surrounding cities. In 494 B.C. the Spartan invasion of Argos, while unsuccessful, would ultimately result in Sparta becoming recognized as the leading state of Hellas (Kennell). It was during this period that Sparta gained considerable influence within Greece, being recognized as the city-state that would lead the Greek forces. The next major step in Sparta’s rise and influence emerges in terms of their relations with Athens. Sparta became first became influential in Athenian politics after overthrowing tyrant Athenian ruler Hippias in 510 B.C. Through the proceeding years they would go on to gain considerably more influence within Athens. In large part, one of the significant events contributing to this rise in influence came through Sparta’s military support to Athens during the Persian Wars. During this period they were able to stave off invasion and drive the Persian army to a standstill. One such political decision came when Sparta instruction the revolting Ionian Greeks to settle in cities that had supported the invading Persian Empire (Jones). This Spartan influence continued until Athens ultimately sided with

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Executive summary on the Thornton case study

Executive summary on the Thornton case study This report is subsequent to the Thornton public limited company case study. A little, bit introduction about Thornton public limited company. Thorntons is one of the most prestigious brand names in the business of chocolate in the world and especially in the Great Britain (U.K.). The company has established around 100 years ago and has various products and different sources to marketing their product like own retail shops, cafà ©, franchisees, supermarket, and Thorntons direct, commercial channel etc. In this report, the concept of leadership and management in relation to Thornton will be review. Secondly, their stated aim of placing greater emphasis on retailing will be analyze and then their influence in situational factor on leadership in present and future will be critically examine through several leadership models INTRODUCTION: Before the report began with the Thorntons the report would like to define the term Leadership and Management what does it mean to organization? Leadership: According to http://sbinfocanada.about.com, Leadership means the art of motivating the employees of an organization to achieve their goals and help the organization for development in today competitive time. Management: In simple words generally use in organization to achieve their desired goals effectively and efficiently. Management involves planning, organizing, employees, and controlling the organization to develop business in todays competitive time. In addition, it is the exchanging of knowledge to create, to outsource, or to produce a new strategic or product for the development of organization. The report is dividing into two parts. In the first part of the report will consider the achievements and negligence of the last chief executive Mr. Mike Davies. Moreover, which model of leadership he has use in Thornton during his time along with the SWOT analysis of the company will be analyze and evaluate along with the way he has role in the company is a transactional leadership skills. In the second part of the report the model Mc Kinsey 7 s and contingency: path goal theory on the new leadership will be analyze and evaluate in Thorntons along with transformational leadership skills and how it will support Thorntons to achieve their goals in the field of retail sales of chocolate and other products along with their situational factors. Discussion: Where are we right now? Firstly, we will look at Last Chief Executive Mr. Mike Davies and his role in the Thornton public limited company. During the leadership period of Mr. Mike Davies, he has practice the leadership model Action Centered Leadership and SWOT analysis of Thorntons. Group needs: Strengthened our retail management team new initiatives to arise sales strengthened the senior retail management team with innovative marketing promotional programmes. Task needs: Manufacturing operations, the product range and performance of its commercial channel and innovative new product. Individuals needs: Tough trading environment, Reference: Action Centered Leadership Adair, john.(1983) Effective Leadership. Gower. SWOT ANALYSIS on Thornton public limited company: Weakness: Thornton direct failed to meet the expectations of the company. Clearing of access stock in shops and then selling them with heavy discount. Strength: Change of liabilities into assets, increase in eps (earnings per share) by 20.4% as compared to last year, Strong Balance sheet, and innovative new Products. THREATS: increase in cocoa prices by 25% and butter prices has increased by 66%. Opportunities: Introducing of Haiti charity bloc, new moulding line to increase productivity, design your own box with personal photo printed for consumers. From the above analyzing, Mr. Mike Davies performance in Thorntons public limited company and while looking at his past work experience in mars of 20 years along with his own consultancy, he has performed as a transactional leadership skills in Thorntons plc. During his period of leadership, he has reconstructed the company and made a valid change in manufacturing operations along with innovation of chocolate box for the exclusively customers which had grown up by 84% in the last year and in the current year also increased by 5% in the current year. Now, Thornton has more than 30% of inlaid chocolate box market. Moreover, he shows strong balance sheet during the time of world economic crisis. However, he wants to reduce the dependence of Thorntons public limited company. As the chocolate is a seasonal product large number of staff is temporary staff on production and own stores of Thornton that should a major problem in the management of the company. 2). Where are we going now? Secondly, what company aspects from the new leader in Thornton should observe the situational factors and strategic development of retail sales and management of the company? The report will analyze the Mc Kinsey 7s model in Thornton and evaluate how it will help them to restructuring the management and retail sales along with the overcome of situational factors. Analyze of Mc Kinsey 7 s model in Thornton has to look after the situational factors. Structure: Change of working environment of staff from temporary to permanent staff in production and management. Strategy: How to achieve goals and proposal to overcome with situational factors. System: Innovation of technology, government support etc. Skills: Assets or resources provided by company. Goals: Improvement in retail sales, situational factors and management. Style: Leadership should concern with employees regarding motivation training. Employees should feel free to share new ideas .regarding the new business source. Staff: Looking after the employees. Like rewards and position in company. Evaluation how does Mc Kinsey 7s model work in Thornton. The new leader should adopt the McKinsey 7 s model approach in the Thornton along with transformational skills so that the employees should be able to share new ideas and new business source of development the organization and they should feel free to share their ideas with the leader directly. Therefore, that will help them achieve their goals in retail and over come with the situational factor. In addition, the new leader should overlook at the changes done by the last chief executive, and try to adapt some changes that are good for the company to cover up with the management in Thornton. How contingency: path goal theory does help the leader and employees to achieve the goals. Nature of employees: How should employees perform to cover up situational factors and improve retail sales, with determination or with disinterest in task? LEADER SHIP BEHAVIOUR 1).Directive 2). Supportive 3). Participative 4). Achievement Oriented Nature of task: situational factors and emphasis on retail sales of Thorntons; it is an ambiguous structure task or manageable structure task. Employees approach and motivation towards this situation in Thorntons. Goal Clarity shows the improved performance of the retail sales, situational factor, and job satisfaction of employees. Evaluation how does contingency: path goal model work in Thornton public limited company. From the above analysis of the path goal model in the Thornton public limited company. We can examine that the working conditions of management need to be friendlier between the leader and the employees so that each task should be structure first so that management could complete the task properly within a period, it will give job satisfaction to employees, and company performance will be improve accurately. Conclusion: This report has analyzed and evaluated Action Centered Leadership and SWOT analysis under the leadership of Mr. Mike Davies and he performs as a transactional leader in Thornton. Mc Kinsey 7s and contingency: path goal theory has analyzed and evaluated for the role of new leadership that is require by Thornton and it will help the cover up all the situational factor of management as the employees are on temporary basis they should be on permanent so they will be interested in their work. Recommendations: From the case study of Thorntons and this report, I would like to share my opinion that Thorntons should go for vertical integration process of their daily needs product like milk etc. As this project is a low investment project, nevertheless it will help the organization to improve their strategic goals describe in the case study. They just need some greenery area or farm house to where they can take care of cows, and in return, they will get 100% fresh milk daily. That milk they could make butter, because it prices was arose by 66% in the year 2009. Moreover, milk can be use in the mixing of chocolate. This business is ecological and neither will it occur any global warming. Also with the help of vertical integration, they can improve the quality of chocolate that will stay for a longer period. Besides this, they can sell their own milk in their own brand name as a new product; they can launch different kinds of milk shakes in their own cafà © in the U.K. and Ireland. That could h elp them to increase their own retail sales. It will also turn unemployment into employment that will help the government in terms of tax increase.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Geothermal Energy :: essays papers

Geothermal Energy It has come to my attention that your research center gives some helpful information on my desire course of study. Let me explain briefly about my education background. I received B.S degree in 1999 with a major in Mechanical Engineering. (Heat and fluid branch) later, I began new course for M.S degree since 1999 in Energy Engineering (which continues) At present, I am searching and editing my final project. The title of my research would be â€Å" Technical and Economical evaluation of geothermal energy systems†. Also, the subtitle named as â€Å" Geothermal Heat Pump†. The main idea of this project is mentioned below: 1. To collect a technical and energy model consisted of general information such as exploration, drilling, capacity of equipments, etc. 2. to gather economical plans based on technical model. In other words, we should consider the application of heat pump as well as economical point of view. 3. Comparison to geothermal heat pump and traditional air condition systems. Furthermore, to explain advantages and disadvantages of each system. 4. Comparison to geothermal heat pump and traditional heat pump. 5. Conclusions. I’d like to call your attention to this matters, unfortunately in Iran there is no sufficient and reliable sources on renewable energy. So, our references are very limited. All of my professional information was on the basis of searching Internet. The Iranian society of mechanical engineering has published a special magazine titled â€Å"Mechanical Engineering†. As a member of this association, I wrote an article titled Geothermal energy which published. You will see that I thoroughly enjoyed to have all information that would be helpful and constructive in my study. At the end, you are kindly requested to send me, if available, guidelines for following items: 1. General reports on Geothermal Energy by referring to historical analysis as well as the usage of different systems

Monday, November 11, 2019

Feminist critique on a street car named desire Essay

Although the play itself would have made huge strides in the feminist movement at the time the message behind the play brings out a crucial and relevant message to the audience today, and asks bigger questions to young people in a generation that questionably has made very few steps forward in the past few decades. It questions how gendered stereotyping controls our society and how little both sexes care to amend it in an apathetic civilisation. Blanche as a character although resembling, at times, the potential to be of more substantial character and command the recognition she deserves, is trapped into a bubble of what can be considered feminine and is convinced by her own sub conscience and those around her that the only way to get what she wants is to act within certain stereotypes to find herself any man to provide the stability she craves, Stella alike takes the role in a less exaggerated manner but this in some ways is more powerful as she has the power over Stanley to conduct him as she wishes but herself deems it only acceptable to run back to him every time he calls. Self-destruction in its simplest form because society has condemned her to our four walls of femininity. A Streetcar Named Desire presents a sharp observational critique of the way the institutions and attitudes of postwar America placed restrictions on women’s actions and lives. Williams uses Blanche’s and Stella’s dependence on men to expose and evaluate the treatment of women during the transition from the old to the new South. Both Blanche and Stella see male companions as their only means to achieve happiness, Blanche and Stella throughout the play remain in the mindset that to acquire a male companion is their only true and justified path to happiness, consequently they form a dependency to men for both their sustenance and their self-image. Blanche criticizes Stella for staying in a physically abusive relationship with her brooding husband Stanley, thus in turn criticizing Stella for depending on Stanley for emotional support and sexual relief, Stella declares she is ‘not in anything she wants to get out of’ this moment in the play shocks Blanche as she realises that someone she loves and respects so completely could choose this life for herself . However the way Blanche leads her life—contacting Shep Huntleigh for financial support—still demonstrates a complete uncompromising dependency on men. At the end of the play, when Stella makes the conscious decision to remain with her husband, Stanley, she has chosen to rely on love, and put her faith and reliance in a man instead of her sister. Williams chooses not to present this decision as a mistake or a female falling as it is clear that Blanche’s behavior does not offer nor demonstrate a secure future for Stella or for her newly born child. One of the most prominent communications within the play is that posed by Blanche, as a character we find it incredibly hard to sympathize with her, she appears on the surface manipulative and unhinged masked clumsily by nauseating girlishness . She comes across in so many ways barely a woman at all with her shrill demands and constant awkward giggling, however her past reveals she is far more of a woman than Stella or Blanche would ever like to believe, her shaded life in Bellereeve leaves trails of fragmented womanhood behind her which later manifests itself in the form of vicious gossip that consequently sparks Blanches downfall. Within herself, Blanche views a quick marriage to Mitch as a manner of absconding destitution. Blanche’s sexual exuberance is criticized by Stanley and exploited by all the other men in her life excluding Mitch, tarnishing her name, and providing her with a promiscuous reputation. This reputation, by nature of society, brands Blanche an unfit and unattractive marriage prospect, however, as she is destitute, Blanche perceives marriage as her only probability for survival in a bible belt that condemns women be pure in order to be a possibility for wedlock. When Mitch discards Blanche based on the slander painted by Stanley about her licentious past, Blanche instantaneously turns to another man—the millionaire Shep Huntleigh—in hope of another miraculous rescuing. Because Blanche is blinded by her dependence on men, she loses sight of a realistic concept of saving herself from being pushed down, this view has been embedded in her by humanity condemning her to believe her only discharge will be if a good honest man will wed her, thus somehow erasing the shadows of her past in Bellereeve. Blanche fails to come to terms with the fact that by putting so much emphasis and reliance in men she no longer controls the outcomes of her future as she puts her fate in the hands of a man, thus ultimately leading to her descent into insanity. One of the most important aspects of feminism is that gender is a social construct and if womanhood is defined purely through the chains of society rather than through natural causes, few societies have enforced it more forcefully and with such vigour as the American South. The saga that is the southern woman began in the mid 1800’s which saw a white woman of a certain standing put on a pedestal. The southern gentleman and society enforced that a woman be a non-sexual creature, helpless and fragile, this is concentrated and highlighted in Blanche’s behaviour as she believes the only way for her to appear attractive to the opposite sex is to manifest herself as pathetic and incapable. As a Southern lady, Blanche’s narrowly defined social role has kept her from admitting her natural appetites and pursuing them forthrightly. She has felt obliged to lie to herself and to others. However throughout the play these hidden desires have revealed themselves in private company, for instance her heavy drinking would be seen as impure by southern society and this is evident by both Mitch’s and Stanley’s reaction to this trait. Blanches greatest scandal from belle reeve is that she let her sexual nature control her actions thus ‘spoiling’ her and rendering her a ruined woman. To express one’s sexuality or desires instantaneously reduces a woman to tainted and impure. Williams has said that he considers Blanche’s character liberated, she has lived such an autonomous life in such a repressive time she could almost be considered heroic were she not so ashamed of her fierce former independence. In the play she seeks stability after the tragedy of her life in Belle reeve – ergo her attraction to Mitch – his incessant and ceaseless tedium results in Blanche being capable of fulfilling her central hunger in this time of her life, to find a good husband. She regularly discourages masculine behaviour in Mitch, rendering him the submissive co-part of the relationship, Blanche subconsciously maculates herself by doing this. Both sisters have felt the full force of marrying for love (Stella through the physical abuse omitted by Stanley and Blanche through the affair of her bi-sexual late husband) it could be argued that Allan’s sexual ambiguity led Stella to choose an overtly heterosexual working class man. Some criticise Williams writing of Stella as she fails to release herself from the grasp of her abusive husband, expressing that Williams presents Stella (and blanche) as weak and incompetent however this criticism is unjust as Williams would have been writing before any form of feminist movement arose, meaning that Williams himself was writing purely from observation of his Southern America. Williams himself as a homosexual male experienced the same struggles as these women being considered a second class citizen or an ‘other’ The ending of the play, finishes controversially for feminists addressing the issue of rape, however Williams does not present Blanche as victim, although the tone of sympathy primarily lies with the women of the play Blanche manifests herself as a worthy opponent, she has allured Stanley with provocative comments and engaged in verbal battles with him throughout the play. She has not proved a weak adversary at any moment and at the climax of the play smashes a bottle and threatens to ‘’twist it into his face’’. Stanley does not rape Blanche in order to re-instate his power in the house rather than as a battle for position of alpha-male, as from the beginning of the play Blanche has threatened this position, she has drunk his alcohol, manipulated his wife and this pinnacle marks the end battle of this ongoing power-struggle. Stanley is not belittling Blanche or women in general by raping her rather he feels it is his last resort in order to have victory thus proving he sees her as a genuine intimidation. Stanley says ‘we’ve had this date with each other from the beginning’ showing that she was a direct threat from the beginning and the fact that it could imply that the act was pre-meditated is the only indication of deliberate cold- blooded cruelty on Stanley’s behalf. Williams challenges the traditional view of marriage as posed by cultural standing, assuming that marriage is the end of the story, and that marriage is synonymous with a lifetime of joy, erasing all pain from behind that moment. Williams sees marriage as the start of a life for a man, far from the bliss that is advertised. Mitch and Stanley represent realistic portraits of men who will constantly cram their women into gendered stereotypes and Stella and Blanche will always oblige to protect their own stature and (in the case of Stella) to shelter their children.

Friday, November 8, 2019

How Small Business Drives US Economy

How Small Business Drives US Economy What really drives the U.S. economy? No, it is not war. In fact, it is small business firms with fewer than 500 employees that drives the U.S. economy by providing jobs for over half of the nations private workforce. In 2010, there were 27.9 million small businesses in the United States, compared to 18,500 larger firms with 500 employees or more, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. These and other statistics outlining small business contribution to the economy are contained in the Small Business Profiles for the States and Territories, 2005 Edition from the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA Office of Advocacy, the small business watchdog of the government, examines the role and status of small business in the economy and independently represents the views of small business to federal government agencies, Congress, and the President of the United States. It is the source for small business statistics presented in user-friendly formats and it funds research into small business issues. Small business drives the American economy, said Dr. Chad Moutray, Chief Economist for the Office of Advocacy in a press release. Main Street provides the jobs and spurs our economic growth. American entrepreneurs are creative and productive, and these numbers prove it. Small Businesses Are Job Creators SBA Office of Advocacy-funded data and research shows that small businesses create more than half of the new private non-farm gross domestic product, and they create 60 to 80 percent of the net new jobs. Census Bureau data shows that in 2010, American small businesses accounted for: 99.7% of U.S. employer firms;64% of net new private-sector jobs;49.2%   of private-sector employment; and42.9% of private-sector payroll Leading the Way Out of the Recession Small businesses accounted for 64% of the net new jobs created between 1993 and 2011 (or 11.8 million of the 18.5 million net new jobs). During the recovery from the great recession, from mid-2009 to 2011, small firms led by the larger ones with 20-499 employees accounted for 67% of the net new jobs created nationwide. Do the Unemployed Become Self-Employed? During periods of high unemployment, like the U.S. suffered during the great recession, starting a small business can be just as hard, if not harder than finding a job. However, in March 2011, about 5.5% or nearly 1 million self-employed people – had been unemployed the previous year. This figure was up from March 2006 and March 2001, when it was 3.6% and 3.1%, respectively, according to the SBA. Small Businesses Are the Real Innovators Innovation – new ideas and product improvements – is generally measured by the number of patents issued to a firm. Among firms considered â€Å"high patenting† firms – those being granted 15 or more patents in a four-year period small businesses produce 16 times more patents per employee than large patenting firms, according to the SBA. In addition, SBA research also shows that increasing the number of employees correlates with increased innovation while increasing sales does not. Do Women, Minorities, and Veterans Own Small Businesses? In 2007, the nation’s 7.8 million women-owned small businesses averaged $130,000 each in receipts. Asian-owned businesses numbered 1.6 million in 2007 and have average receipts of $290,000. African-American-owned businesses numbered 1.9 million in 2007 and have average receipts of $50,000. Hispanic-American-owned businesses numbered 2.3 million in 2007 and have average receipts of $120,000. Native American/Islander-owned businesses numbered 0.3 million in 2007 and have average receipts of $120,000, according to the SBA. In addition, veteran-owned small businesses numbered 3.7 million in 2007, with average receipts of $450,000.

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Honest Numbers about an Amazon Indie Ebook Giveaway

Honest Numbers about an Amazon Indie Ebook Giveaway One problem facing indie authors is the lack of honest sales figures. Self-reporting is often vague or exaggerated. While Hugh Howey’s Author Earnings page is a good source, more data are needed. I recently did a five-day free promotion on Amazon and would like to share my results. I’m writing a series of post-apocalyptic novels titled the Toxic World. Book One, Radio Hope, came out in February. In March I published a 10,000-word short story titled The Scavenger. The series is in the KDP Select program so I can take advantage of free giveaways and countdown deals. The Scavenger is priced at 99 cents. It’s not intended to make money, but to advertise the series, so I use my free days. I get five days to offer it for free every ninety-day period. My first promotion was from Friday, April 4 through Tuesday, April 8. I did little promotion. I mentioned it on my blog and several times on my Twitter feed. Several blogger buddies mentioned it. A few nice people tweeted. Here’s the daily breakdown, with the number of downloads for each country in parentheses. Friday, April 4: US (79), UK (13), Spain (5), Germany (2), Canada (3), India (1). Total: 103. Saturday, April 5: US (82), UK (9), Germany (1), Canada (1), Australia (1). Total: 94. Sunday, April 6: US (58), UK (2), Germany (1), Canada (3), Australia (1). Total: 65. Monday, April 7: US (61), UK (11), Australia (1). Total: 73. Tuesday, April 8: US (47), UK (8), Spain (1). Total: 56. Grand Total: US (327), UK (43), Canada (7), Spain (6), Germany (4), Australia (3), India (1). Grand Total for all markets: 391. The giveaway numbers mirror my sales - the U.S. is My first day was my biggest. Fridays and Saturdays are good sales days as people look for weekend reading. There’s a severe drop off at the beginning of the week. This was reflected in my giveaway numbers. That good first day got me into the top 20 in the Post-Apocalyptic and Dystopian categories on Amazon UK and into the top 20 â€Å"Kindle Short Reads† on Amazon US. This increased visibility and encouraged more downloads, creating a positive feedback loop and getting the attention of some â€Å"free ebook† websites and Twitter feeds, which presumably helped keep numbers up. Reader reaction was prompt. While the giveaway was still on, someone added The Scavenger to Goodreads and I got three reviews. What about sales of Radio Hope? During the giveaway I sold six, twice what I sold in the same five-day period a week earlier. I have since had several sales of Radio Hope to people who said they’d been pulled in So what did I learn? Don’t expect astronomical numbers. As a little-known author in a flooded genre, you won’t hit number one. The friend factor only goes so far. Few downloads were The first day is essential. Getting those numbers up quickly makes you visible. This encourages more downloads that will keep you visible. Weekends are better. Split it across two weekends instead of a single five-day block. You’re building a tower, not launching a rocket. While this giveaway didn’t get me lots of sales, it did get my series onto nearly 400 Kindles. That’s a start.

Monday, November 4, 2019

Case Study Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Case Study - Assignment Example Hackers might focus on a company’s financial data to obtain its earnings before being publicly released. Such knowledge might enable their profit by acquiring or dumping stock. Another threat to data security of a corporate firm is known as the advanced persistent threat. It predominantly involves stealing intellectual property and associates itself with state-sponsored espionage. The gains are not strictly financial because what is at risk is not only the intellectual property of the corporate entity but possibly the national security. APT targets organisations and nations for economic and political motives. The Stuxnet worm case in 2010 is an example of such a case (Plant 1). The Stuxnet worm infiltrated industrial control systems like those that manage water or power plants. Industries at risk include defence industries, financial industries and technology industries. Another potentially dangerous threat is hacktivism. The goal of the hackers in this type is creating or altering the public perception of the brand. For instance, the hackers might hack and get sensitive information about the company and disclose it the whole world especially if the company belongs to the private sector. An example of such a type of threat is WikiLeaks or the digital equivalent of Occupy Wall

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Social Psychology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Social Psychology - Assignment Example In primitive cultures infanticide was an acceptable means of birth control. The social interactions of primitive cultures showed the hardness of life, with hunger and war the way of life. The cognitive processes would convince the mother’s that the environmental factors of their life were too much for a baby. The cultural context would approve of infanticide. Biological factors would include a mother’s love or bonding with the newborn baby. Infanticide would be expected out of primitive cultures due to research and study of text and uncovered ancient burial grounds. In today’s society infanticide is not an acceptable practice. Abortion is a practice that has become acceptable in the United States and other countries. Most abortions are due to environmental reasons, such as a woman feels too poor, does not want the baby, or other reasons. The biological factors are women that become pregnant accidently or find themselves having an unwanted pregnancy. In China wher e economic restraints are placed on couples with more than one child, gender profiling has caused the rise in abortion of the female gender. That is the Chinese culture. Contraception is also accepted in the United States and European countries. On the other hand, abortions and birth control are outlawed in Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran. The culture dictates the practice. Different societies practice different means of birth control. The birth control issue is based on social interactions. The obvious social interactions are between a man and woman of childbearing age. However the interaction between the sexually active woman and men and their social group is also important. A young married couple will probably receive a positive reaction. A young thirteen or fourteen year old would not receive a positive reaction. A couple with more than three or four children would not be positively received in the

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Metaphysics of Philosophy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Metaphysics of Philosophy - Research Paper Example The figure is around two times the level of global warming for the 100-year period from 1905 to 2005 (UNIPCC 30). The UNIPCC described the earth’s warming as â€Å"unequivocal† and reported that this is â€Å"evident† in the â€Å"widespread melting of snow and ice and rising global average sea level† (30). Global average sea level has been rising from 2.4 to 3.8 millimeter per year or at an average of 1.8 millimeter per year from 1993 to 2003 (UNIPCC 30). Arctic sea ice extent has been decreasing from 2.1 to 3.3% per decade or at an average of 2.7% per decade (UNIPCC 30). In the ongoing global warming, although the ocean is taking up 80% of the additional heat, the land regions have warmed faster than the oceans (UNIPCC 30). The warming is definitely affecting the fishes and the living organisms of the world’s oceans as well as the entire earth’s plant and animal kingdoms or the globe’s flora and fauna in technical terms. The ability of humanity to derive or produce food from the planet is most likely affected. The UNIPCC confirmed that there are shifts and changes in algal and zooplankton abundance in oceans and lakes (31). There are also effects on coral reefs (UNIPCC 31). The UNIPCC also noted that one effect of global warming is an early spring and related events such as â€Å"leaf-unfolding, bird migration and egg-laying† (33). The UNIPCC also reported that with global warming, there is an â€Å"excess heat-related mortality† in Europe and changes in patterns as well as sources of infectious diseases (33). Hunting and travel seasons are affected (UNIPCC 33). The rise in sea level is also contributing to â€Å"losses of coastal wetlands and mangroves† as well as to the â€Å"increasing damage from coastal flooding in many areas† (UNIPCC 33). The UNIPCC has solid evidence on global warming and climate change. It studied

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Internet and Our Social Life Essay Example for Free

Internet and Our Social Life Essay For a few decades now, the internet has been an important gear in the ticking clock we like to call everyday life. Its significance and usage is ever growing, as well as the number of areas in which it has crept in. The phenomenon that is the internet brought power at the click of a mouse, but as it goes with power, consequences are inevitable. The internet is, undoubtedly, the largest source of information today. It is also a practical tool for managing bank accounts, staying in touch with friends and communicating with people all over the world, with technology that enables you to simultaneously talk while looking at the person on screen and even hold video conferences. But practicality and availability of information are not the only things that attract internet users. In online social communities, forums and game rooms people are given the opportunity to be whoever they want to be. The internet gives us virtual clay which we can use to mold our identities in any way we want. Especially in game rooms, people tend to fantasize and invent characters in order to compensate for the lack of their own. That is how a regular John Doe can go to his boring work every morning, but come back home, turn his computer on and become Zyborg, the hero from outer space. The cyber space can be used as a resort when real life is difficult to deal with. For example, people with low self-esteem or people who lack social skills will probably find online chatting much easier than talking to the person face to face. Such use of internet can make one’s life more interesting or less stressful, but too much time and dedication to it can lead to serious social and psychological consequences. If a person spends too much time on the computer, with its virtual character and virtual friends, he develops a virtual life which he may prefer more than the real one. Consequently, even though he might feel satisfied and safe, he does more damage than good by neglecting some important parts of his regular life such as time with his family, health, responsibilities and productivity. Lately, a diagnosis called Internet addiction disorder has been introduced for people who are thought to spend too much time on the internet. This issue is facing its beginning and it i s still disputed whether it is a real disorder. But according to Dr. Maressa Orzack between 5% and 10% of internet users suffer some form of internet dependency and she lists withdrawal, loss of control, and compulsive behavior as some of the effects. Online dating sites, which people visit in order to find a partner for romantic or sexual relationship, have made courtship easier, but, paradoxically, there have been many cases in which the internet was the prime cause of ending a relationship, marriage or even filing lawsuits. With internet becoming more and more integrated into our lifestyles it is only normal that the effects, both positive and negative, be visible in all aspects of our lives, including socializing. It is nice to be able to see your sister who lives miles away smile for you on screen as if she were in the room with you, or exchange e-mails with a person who you normally wouldn’t have the courage to come up to, but it would be a scary thing if cafes would become empty and internet networks overloaded with Zyborgs.

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Education Essays Bilingualism United States

Education Essays Bilingualism United States Bilingualism United States The United States Children Growing Up Monolingual Understanding, Identifying, and Examining Bilingualism in the United States: An Interdisciplinary Approach Why do so many children in the United States grow up monolingual? The United States is regarded as â€Å"a melting pot†, in which people of different cultures, races, and religions are joined together so as to widen a multi-ethnic society. Americans have had various beliefs about whether or not English should be the official language in this country. There have been diverse decisions in English Only acts throughout the United States’ history. These English Only acts demonstrate some of the reasons why so many of the United States’ children grow up monolingual. It’s no wonder that immigrants to this country are swayed to lose their mother tongue or even their entire customs and traditions. It is difficult to understand the close ties that language has with certain group ethnicities (Gerstle, 2001). Language is one of the major ingredients of individuals’ identities and ethnicities. The United States should consider a proposal that would include a more enhanced plan for the welfare of certain groups, so that they could fully contribute in our society and encourage a more bilingual or multilingual society that would prepare Americans for a more expanding global society. The United States should consider itself to be at an advantage when it comes to bilingualism. There is a flood of immigrants coming into this nation every year and every immigrant brings with them a unique idiom. Throughout American history, the typical pattern of language usage among immigrants has been a rapid shift from non-English monolingualism to bilingualism to English monolingualism in the third generation (Fishman, 1980). Americans have more of an advantage, because of their high percentage of immigrants, to encourage bilingualism to its citizens. The United States could benefit from the advantage because bilingualism could better prepare the U.S. citizens for an ever-expanding global society (Sheriff, 2007). Major Reasons for Bilingualism in the U.S. One significant element to bilingualism in the United States begins with providing better welfare of specific groups of people who cannot, because of language barriers, contribute fully in our social organization. Another reason for bilingualism in the U.S. is the interest of professional second language groups, who find it essential to continue their support for language study development (Roeming,1971). In addition to the significant elements to increase bilingualism, native speakers might find it meaningful to continue their mother tongue, traditions, and cultures. One important reason for this is that there have been findings that concluded â€Å"a foreign language facilitates mastering the higher forms of the native language† (Lambert Tucker, 2007). Bilingualism could better prepare the U.S. citizens for an ever-expanding global society (Sheriff, 2007). American citizens need to examine outside their borders and learn from the mistakes and successes of other countries, furthermore countries that are thriving with developed citizens with bilingual or multilingual proficiency (Pufahi, 2001). It is essential that the United States’ citizens become a society with multicultural character and reflect as the â€Å"melting pot† nation, so which as they are regarded (Safty, 1988). Why an Interdisciplinary Approach There are many factors that contribute to bilingualism in America. It is important that it be examined for the reasons listed above. The information must be explored from multiple viewpoints, in order to successfully develop a system of improvement. By applying an interdisciplinary approach to the issue, the viewpoints from specific disciplines can be investigated and integrated to provide successful modifications. While disciplines can blind or sway, they become, when used relevantly, our keenest lenses on the world. The disciplines are the most useful means for illuminating those generative issues that have perennially engaged the curiosity of thoughtful human beings (Gardner and Boix-Mansilla, 1994). The interdisciplinary process involves integrating disciplinary insights into a particular problem and it does not attempt to integrate disciplinary perspectives. However, before one can identify insights, one must first identify the disciplines relevant to the problem (Repko, 2005). Bilingualism influences many divisions of this nation. It is difficult to apply only one study of discipline to this multifaceted crisis. The issue needs to be analyzed in more areas of disciplines, so that all factors are considered. This complete examination of bilingualism in the United States could help render all major concerns that affect Americans and their legal citizens. Significant Disciplines There are several disciplines that could contribute to the concerns of bilingualism in America. The disciplines that are considered to be the most critical are Education, Sociology, and Modern Languages. The goal of this investigation is to consider the most important welfare of the United States’ citizens concerning bilingualism. There are several other disciplines that contain factors involving bilingualism, but these disciplines may only briefly be illustrated in this paper. The disciplines that may be briefly studied are Economics, History, Linguistics, Political Science and Psychology. The investigation concentrates mainly on the most critical disciplines. Education, Sociology, and Modern Languages are the disciplines that will be fully investigated for the purpose of the problem at hand. Discipline 1: Education The discipline of Education contains methods that can assist in teaching a system. Teaching techniques can have effective implications to address specific issues. It is important to understand well enough specific structures in order to effectively acknowledge them. The purpose of teaching techniques is to have a sound knowledge base, so that students can build as they are exposed to different life experiences. If a student is well educated, then they are able to interpret good judgment, experience and wisdom (Britannica, 2006). These are the reasons why it is essential that students at an early age be instructed in the issues of foreign languages. Students are able to acquire two languages simultaneously almost â€Å"with the same ease [he] learns his first one because he is doing so at a stage of mental development which proceeds parallel to the mechanisms of language acquisition.† The influence of Education has been proven to be an effective way to promote a Bilingual society ( Safty, 1988). The discipline of Education would allow students to further understand and comprehend the structures of bilingualism and promote the importance of the issue in America’s society. Discipline 2: Sociology The discipline of Sociology contains methods of how and why people are structured in society. Societies are structured as individuals or as part of associations, groups and institutions. Societies are examined to reveal how and why people are structured in specific ways (Britannica, 2006). It is essential to include this discipline’s insights to the issue of bilingualism in the U.S. It should be researched why certain societies do not fully contribute in our society, because of language barriers. Also, it should be examined why certain members continue to contribute to the support of language study. Professional linguists observed evidence of behavioral function in two languages with enthusiasm without recognizing that the disparate cultural levels of the two languages may cause serious individual socio-psychological problems (Roeming, 1971). It is essential to understand how or why people are structured in societies, so that there can be a greater awareness of how Americans can gain a higher participation in bilingualism. Discipline 3: Modern Languages The discipline of Modern Languages involves the structure of languages, syntax formation of languages, and learning capabilities of second language learners. The structure of languages can in some cases be transformed from one language to another. Positive cognitive gains should be expected from bilingualism if the second language is introduced after the child has achieved a certain threshold level of competence in his first language (Diaz, 1983). The syntax-formations of languages are sometimes similar in structure. In an intensive investigation it revealed that exposure to French facilitated the comprehension of certain English syntactic structures (Safty, 1988). Also, the learning capabilities of second language learners can sometimes be very diverse from that of native language learners. It is essential to understand the formalities of Modern Languages, so that the proper proposal can be assessed of bilingualism in the United States. Significant Disciplines Other disciplines that should be briefly studied are Economics, History, Linguistics, Political Science and Psychology. Economics involves the set of principles and techniques by which a society decides and organizes the ownership and allocation of economic resources. History includes the social structures and the interaction of different group in society rather thatn affairs of state. Linguistics encompasses semantics, syntax, and phonology. Synchronic linguistic studies aim to describe a language as it exists at a given time; diachronic studies trace a language[s historical development. â€Å"Political Science contains the nature of states, the functions performed by governments, voter behaviour, political parties, political culture, political economy and public opinion. Psychology illustrates the concerns of personalities, attitudes, motivations, and behaviour of an individual or a group† (Political Science, 2008). The disciplines listed above may be briefly included in this investigation for the purpose of the United States’ citizens examining the importance of increasing bilingualism or multilingualism. Purpose of Interdisciplinary Studies The purpose of this investigation is to understand, identify, and examine bilingualism in the United States. The issue of bilingualism in America is a major concern that needs to be reviewed with more than one aspect of discussion in order for all Americans to agree on the topic at hand. The interests of specific groups of people who are not able, because of language barriers, to contribute fully in our social organization should be reviewed. Also, it is ethically accurate for native speakers to maintain their mother tongue, traditions, and cultures studies. It also should to be reviewed why beginning foreign language study early supports achievement of higher levels of language proficiency and why bilingualism can enhance certain cognitive skills and intellectual development. If the issues listed in this paper are understood, identified and examined then the United States could better prepare the U.S. citizens for an ever-expanding global society with specific groups’ interest included. Background The United States was founded on diverse cultures unifying to establish a new nation of opportunities. The history of America has demonstrated the struggles of diverse cultures trying to create a multicultural nation. One of the major concerns in the United States has been bilingualism. In the beginning Americans tried to define what the nation stood for and what customs and cultures were considered American. President Theodore Roosevelt once said, We have one language here, and that is the English language, and we intend to see that the [assimilation] crucible turns our people out as Americans. These events in American history resulted in federal and state laws, judicial decisions and administrative regulations which were largely sympathetic to the idea of language rights. Official English Movement In the nineteenth century of the United States there were languages other than English that were widely spoken, a strong â€Å"English only† struggle developed at the turn of the century as a flood of immigrates from Southern and Eastern Europe increased xenophobic feelings in Americans. The â€Å"Americanization† movement that grew between 1900 and 1920 demanded national unity upon cultural homogeneity and a common language (Citrin, Reingold, Walters, Green, 1990). The planned drive for â€Å"official English† in the 1980s was what started change in America. Senator Hayakawa (Republican, California) feared that if the United States failed to promote a common language then they would create instability and polarization similar to Canada, Belgium, and other linguistically divided countries. Hayakawa first proposed an amendment to the Constitution to declare English the official language to the United States in 1981. Hayakawa established the â€Å"U.S. English,† the organization which quickly became the leading advocacy group of the â€Å"official English† movement. Today there are 44 states and numerous countries and municipalities that have considered laws or initiatives that declare English to be their sole official language (Citrin, Reingold, Walters, Green, 1990). There are organizations that fight to make English the official language of the United States. ProEnglish is a member-supported, national, non-profit organization founded in 1994. ProEnglish is one of the organizations dedicated to making English the official language of the United States. They disapprove of such orders such as the Executive Order 13166, which states that any entity which receives federal funds must provide whatever services it offers in any foreign language spoken by anyone likely to receive those services. It says failure to do so is likely to constitute discrimination on the basis of national origin as prohibited by Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights law (ProEnglish Activism, 2008). The â€Å"English only† movement and the immigrants struggling to strive in American societies demonstrates the diverse viewpoints that their citizens hold about bilingualism. Bilingual Education The United States has had bilingual education since the 1840’s. It was believed that a form of bilingual schooling originated in Cincinnati in 1840. Cincinnati was one of the many communities in which the majority or a large minority of the population was German-speaking. German immigrants were coming to America in huge numbers during the ladder decades of the 19th century. There were private and parochial German schools established, furthermore German parents had to pay tuition and school taxes. As a result of the German schools the native-born Americans became concerned that speakers of other languages would be assimilated into their speech and way of life. They decided to unite the German schools with the public schools and swayed the students to aspire to learn the German language. This resulted in students learning German and English languages together (Andersson, 1971).† The 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s were a low period for foreign languages in general, which almost disappeared from the elementary-school curriculum. On January 17, 1967, a historic bill was introduced in the Senate of the U.S. by the senior senator from Texas together with seven other senators as co-sponsors. The bill was to ensure that students whose native tongue was not English would be better assisted in school. On January 2, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the Bilingual Education Act, with the words, â€Å"Thousands of children of Latin descent, young Indians, and others will get a better start- a better chance in school (Andersson, 1971)†. Federal policy in bilingual education since 1960 has been made to ensure equal educational opportunity for minority-language children of limited English proficiency (LEP). They began because of court decisions enforcing civil rights legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Equal Educational Opportunities Act (EEOA) of 1974 (Secada, 1990). There is a debate for Bilingual Education in which there are those who believe that the goal of the program should be to assimilate LEP students into the mainstream as quickly as possible. Then there are those that believe that the program should help develop dual language competence and literacy, multicultural awareness, and enhanced self concept which could lead to other desirable goals (Secada, 1990). In the 1960s the concept of a federal bilingual education program revealed to be politically popular, and there were more than three dozen bilingual education bills introduced into the House of Representatives. On January 17, 1967, Texas Senator Ralph Yarborough and six cosponsors introduced S. 428, the American Bilingual Education Act (BEA), an amendment to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. This amendment was to ensure a better education to â€Å"the special educational needs of the large numbers of students in the United States whose mother tongue is Spanish and to whom English is a foreign language (Lyons, 1990)†. The 1974 amendments lengthened the formation and operation of the BEA, they also supported the law’s focus on English-language development and neglect of native-language development. The amendments also excluded federal support for two-way bilingual-education programs like the Coral Way model. Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in federally aided programs and activities and entailed on grant-making agencies accountability for guaranteeing compliance. In 1974 the United States Supreme Court delivered its first and only response to the legal responsibilities of schools serving LRP students. The case was Lau v. Nichols, a class-action suit by the parents of nearly 3000 Chinese pupils in the 16,500 students San Francisco public school system. There were only a small percentage of students that received special instruction and the remainder received none. The plaintiffs alleged that the school district’s conduct violated both the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The plaintiffs requested that the laws be improved and the school districts policies ensure quality instruction for bilingual students. Multilingual-multicultural programs were even more determined in providing instruction in and development of English and at least two other languages (Lyons,1990). In the 1980s the Regan administration cut funding to the bilingual education programs and at the time there was an increase in the number of LEP children needing BEA-funding services. There were at least 3.6 million LEP students that were attending schools in the Unites States. The LEP school-age population was expected to increase, through the year 2000, two and one half times as fast as the general school-age population (Lyons, 1990). During Regan’s term in office he appointed William J. Bennett to be his successor. Secretary Bennett announced to his citizens: Early study of foreign languages makes sense. The imitative capacities of young children give them natural advantages as language students. And language study is good for them. It allows children a taste of the size and diversity of human experience and helps them to distinguish similarities and differences between their own and other cultures and peoples. It may even have a positive effect on their command of English (Lyons, 1990). Integrated Disciplines The disciplines discussed in this investigation are Education, Sociology and Modern Languages. They are essential for the complete investigation of bilingualism in America. Education contains the major aspects of bilingualism in America. Education is the major reason for bilingual studies. Education is the primary reason that American citizens gain comprehensive understanding of a second language. This is the reason that Education is reviewed first in this intense study. Sociology is the next discipline viewed. It is essential to the issue of bilingualism because societies determine what kind of community they desire to exist in. They vote and protest the issues that concern their communities, furthermore determine the idioms used in their societies. The last discipline that is viewed is Modern Languages because of the importance of language structures and facets. These disciplines are viewed in this order due to their importance in the issues concerning bilingualism in America. Other Bilingualism Historical Events Beginning in the 1990s there was a clear presence of xenophobic culture in the California citizens. The California Proposition 277 in 1998 was designed to dismantle bilingual education. Also the Proposition 187 was created to make English the official language of the state. Governor Pete Wilson and other politicians made speeches using a kind of language that demonized the so-called â€Å"illegal† immigrants (Macedo, 2000). These events lead to other states trying to mimic California’s actions. The presence of xenophobic culture was seen much earlier in American history. It can’t be forgotten the English re-education camps designed primarily to yank Native Americans mother tongues. Native American children were taken form their parents and sent to boarding schools with the main objective of cutting them off from their â€Å"primitive† languages and â€Å"savage† cultures (Macedo, 2000). The historical events that have taken place in the Unites States history have brought us to the nation you see today. Bilingualism is still a major issue among American citizens. The issue is still a major debate among our new electing partys nomination for presidency. The recent debate among the two running Democratic Partys nomination, Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama, were asked about bilingualism in the United States. Their responses to the question are below. Clintons comments: I think its important for as many Americans as possible to do what I have never been able to do, and that is learn another language and try to be bilingual because that connects us to the rest of the world. I represent New York. We have 170 languages in New York City alone. And I do not think that we should be, in any way, discriminating against people who do not speak English, who use facilities like hospitals or have to go to court to enforce their rights. But I do think that English does remain an important part of the American experience. So I encourage people to become bilingual. But I also want to see English remain the common, unifying language of our country (Clinton, 2008). And Obamas: Well, I think it is important that everyone learns English and that we have that process of binding ourselves together as a country. I think thats very important. I also think that every student should be learning a second language. I want to make sure that children who are coming out of Spanish-speaking households had the opportunity to learn and are not falling behind. If bilingual education helps them do that, I want to give them the opportunity. But I also want to make sure that English-speaking children are getting foreign languages because this world is becoming more interdependent and part of the process of Americas continued leadership in the world is going to be our capacity to communicate across boundaries, across borders, and thats something frankly where weve fallen behind (Obama, 2008). The controversy between these two Democratic presidential candidates about bilingualism reveals the major importance of bilingualism in America today. The problem requires a full investigation with the most comprehensive understanding of the issue. The issue should be viewed by all aspects of the problem. The disciplines of Education, Sociology and Modern Languages could give a full investigation on many facets of bilingualism in America. The concerns of bilingualism need an interdisciplinary approach due to the many aspects of the issue. The interdisciplinary approach would allow many viewpoints to be examined and ideas to be fully understood (Repko, 2005). A look back of the history of bilingualism in America is an important aspect to viewing the problems that we see today. It is essential to acknowledge the events that have taken place in America history in order to fully understand the elements of bilingualism in this nation. Reference List Andersson, Theodore (1971). Bilingual Education: The American Experience. The Modern Language Journal, 55, 427-440 Berriz, Berta (2006). Unz Got Your Tongue: What Have We Lost with the English-only Mandates? Radical Teacher, 10-15 CAL:Digest (Pufahi, I., Rhodes, N., Christian, D.). (2001). What We Can Learn From Foreign Language Teaching in Other Countries. Center for Applied Linguistics. Retrieved September 18, 2007, from http://www.cal.org/resources/digest/0106pufahl.html Citrin, J., Reingold, B., Walters, E., Green, D. (1990). The â€Å"Official English† Movement and the Symbolic Politics of Language in the United States. The Western Political Quarterly,43, 535-559 Clinton, Hillary (2008, February 21). The importance of bilingualism in America. Lecture presented for the American public in the United States. Diaz, Rafael (1983). Thought and Two Languages: The Impact of Bilingualism on Cognitive Development. Review of Research in Education, 10, 23-54 Encyclopedia Britannica (2006). Encyclopedia Britannica Incoporated, Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary, Retrieved February 6, 2007, from http://www.britannica.com Gardner, H., Boix-Mansilla, V. (1994) Teaching for Understanding Within and Across the Disciplines. Educational Leadership, 14-18 Garica, E., Bryant, J. (2007). Helping Young Hispanic Learners. Educational Leadership, 34-39 Gerstle, Gary (2001). Beyond the Melting Pot. New Leader, 28 Leonard, K. (2007). English Only Is English Lonely. American Libraries, 3 Lyons, James (1990). The Past and Future Directions of Federal Bilingual-Education Policy. Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, 508, 66-80 Lubell, M., Zahran, S., Vedlitz, A. (2007). Collective Action and Citizen Responses to Global Warming, Political Behavior, 29,391-413 Macedo, Donaldo ( 2000). The Colonialism of the English Only Movement. Educational Researcher, 29, 15-24 Muhlko, C. (2007). Too Cool for School. New York Times Magazine, 125,126 Obama, Barack (2008, February 21 ). The importance of bilingualism in America. Lecture presented for the American public in the United States. Pease-Alvarez, L., Hakuta, K. (1992). Enriching Our Views of Bilingualism and Bilingual Education. Edcuational Research, 21(2), 4-6+19 Political science. (2008). 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