Persuade a Family Member That the World Today

In my opinion, the world today is better than it was fifty years ago primarily due to technology, civil reform and medical breakthroughs. The technology of today is far more advanced. In 1960, computers were not household items, nor were cell phones, the internet, digital cameras/camcorders, DVD players, plasma television sets and GPS systems. It is clear that because of the increase in affordable household appliances, home life is easier now than it was fifty years ago. With the added efficiency, more time can be focused on continuing to progress towards a better future. Innovations in technology have made life easier for many people. Almost every school and college in the nation has the use of computers. With computers, students can access large databases of information at the touch of a button. Prior to computers, you would have had to use a card catalogue, which listed every book in a large, hard to use cabinet. Now, thanks to technology and the internet, access to information is easy. Technology has also helped the world to communicate faster and more effectively. Cell phones, email, and television have allowed news and information to travel at light speeds. No longer waiting around for the mail to come to your house, you can instead obtain information from your television, computer, or even cell phone. The development of technology has not only made life easier for everyone, but the cost of technology continues to decrease. Earlier home computers cost anywhere from five thousand to ten thousand dollars. Now they cost as little as three hundred dollars. In addition, almost every household has basic appliances such as a microwave, television, refrigerator and many others. Although some of these appliances existed fifty years ago, they are far more affordable and efficient today. There is clearly a large increase in technological advancements. Problems around the world still exist; however, technology is allowing developing nations to live more comfortable and successful lives, a much harder thing to do in the past due to the lack of technology. As well as technology, there also have been civil reforms in the last fifty years. For example, it is now easier for an African American or a woman to obtain a position of equal pay as a Caucasian man. Although laws were passed earlier than this to give minorities and women equal rights, it took some time before they received equal pay to a Caucasian man. It may be debatable that the pay is still not equal; however, it cannot be denied that it is better now than it was fifty years ago. At that time, it was almost impossible for a woman to be paid the equivalent of a Caucasian man, however, today women and minorities receive fairer treatment. If the current trend continues, men, women and minorities will eventually be treated as complete equals, something they were far off from fifty years ago. Besides technology and civil reform, medical breakthroughs have evolved by unbelievable bounds. An example would be that of the Endo-PAT, which was approved by the FDA in 2003. This device clicks onto the end of your finger and can tell by sensing lack of elasticity of your blood vessel lining whether cardiovascular disease has started. A score indicating endothelial dysfunction on the device is a stronger warning than the typical risk factors, because it indicates that cardiovascular disease has already begun, but at an early stage when you can more easily control your risks. With all the advances previously stated above, properly educating yourself on the history of this country is an action, which must be taken for clear understanding of how far we have come over the years. Without this background, the privileges of today can be potentially overlooked. It is important to understand that society today still has its problems; however, it has come a long way from fifty years ago. It is likely that in an additional fifty years, it will continue to improve. Some people doubt this and think that the future will be desolate. However, if someone said the future was discouraging in 1960, and you knew now what you know about society fifty years into the future, you would be able to tell them that life will only improve due to technological advances, civil reform and medical breakthroughs. Correspondingly, if someone says that the future looks desolate in 2010, you could say that historically speaking, people thought the same fifty years ago but look at all the progresses we have made. Developing a society takes great amounts of patience, but knowing that the world progresses in time helps people to adjust to the changing aspects of life. Some actions that can be taken are to understand the importance of technology, civil reform to society and medical breakthroughs and to seek to improve these conditions for future generations. In closing, above are some of the reasons why the world is better now than it was fifty years ago and why it is important to understand this. Compared to fifty years ago, regular household appliances are fairly less expensive. Not as many households had the kind of conveniences they have now. In addition, society has started to change their outlook on minority races (women included) and seek to bring equality to people regardless of race or gender. The medical breakthroughs in the last fifty years are just beginning. Imagine how medical breakthroughs will transform as technology advances. These are important steps, which make life in society better, and in another fifty years, we can only hope that we can say that life is better than it is now. This is why it is important to understand how society has progressed. Understanding the past also helps us to understand the future, and so knowing that life is better now than it was allows us to look towards the future with hope.

American Multiculturalism Essay

Multicultural education helps achieve the highest goals in the achievement of setting goals to all students. It promotes many different diverse languages, decision making and critical thinking. All the while moving away from inequality and moving towards cultural pluralism. Multicultural Education is to reform schools and gives all cultures a chance in every area: job, school and in the community. It also includes nationality, diversity and class to the students while teaching. This education benefits the students by centering their education in familiar ways to their culture and helps them think on it in multiple ways. In this way the students have an opportunity to be comfortable and in a relatively familiar setting to their culture. I have read on globalization and it is based on integration of different people with different backgrounds. â€Å"As a concept, refers both to the â€Å"shrinking† of the world and the increased consciousness of the world as a whole. It is a term used to describe the changes in societies and the world economy that are the result of dramatically increased cross-border trade, investment, and cultural exchange. The processes and actions to which the concept of globalization now refers have been proceeding, with some interruptions, for many centuries, but only in relatively recent times has globalization become a main focus of discussion. The current or recently-past epoch of globalization has been dominated by the nation-state, national economies, and national cultural identities. The new form of globalization is an interconnected world and global mass culture, often referred to as a â€Å"global village. (New World Encyclopedia, retrieved 1/18/13) The intent of this is to live alongside like cultures and befriend them economically and socially. History speaks of many encounters with multicultural education. It had its pros and cons. In some instances it was harmful to others if this fell into the wrong hands of people with ill intent to others, but it was for the most part a benefit to us all. It’s just like when one country invents something. Then the next country follows up with something else just a little better. To me this is a great example. We all benefit from this. Overall students can excel at more education and have a greater opportunity to access knowledge. Multicultural education also improves teaching methods, a better learning environment for international students and can eventually help the students to feel better acquainted with their communities. It also promotes acceptance in the dialect and citizenship of each student. We should be able to share these opportunities nationally and live side by side to benefit us all. It involves including everyone’s needs to make decisions in curriculum and in the way we live.

Business Logistics and Supply Chain Management

The Supply Chain Management is one of the important functions of an organization that is concerned with the administration of the flow of the services as well as products of the particular pany (Christopher 2016). It is concerned with the inventory and transport as well as storage capabilities of the raw materials. This report deals with the logistics challenges faced during the process of transporting the l otives, thermal coal and wagons for the construction of a railway line from â€Å"Central Western Queensland† to â€Å"Abbot Point Port† located in the Northeast Queensland. The challenges of the logistics are discussed in detail with focus on two key areas. The objective of this report is to identify the logistics challenges during the process of transportation of the raw materials from initial point (Germany) to the final destination (Abbott Point Port). The raw materials are required for the construction of a railway line and hence must reach the final destination in a timely manner. It is also important that the raw materials reach the international mining pany in proper condition, thus minimizing any damages or risks in transit. The report will outline the primary challenges faced in the supply chain management. It will also focus on details like port activities, inland details, sea freight details and various logistics activities. It will also discuss the â€Å"Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services Requirements† in order to understand the issues in a better manner. The major deliverables of the project include the identification of the major issues in the process of logistics and strive to seek suitable solutions for it. The range of activities which deals with effective and efficient transfer of goods as well as services from the â€Å"point of origin† to the â€Å"point of consumption† is known as Supply Chain Management (Monczka et al. 2015). It involves the process of raw materials storage, inventory management and the movement of the goods from one place to the other. The process of logistics deal with the right products delivered in right quantity to the right customer at the right cost (Christopher 2016). The products must be delivered in right time and at the right place. The process of logistics usually deals with the transport activities of a single organization, however, the supply chain management, deals with the transport activities within a network of panies that work in a collaborative manner (Wisner Tan and Leong 2014). The integrated logistics deal with the customer service, production planning, purchasing, transport and the warehouse activities (Christopher 2016). There are important supply chain activities that must be undertaken by the pany for the purpose of successfully delivering the materials to the final destination. There are three broad logistics activities that can be carried out by the pany- Inbound logistics, outbound logistics and Conversion operations (Christopher 2016).   Some of the important activities are described below- There are two important areas in the process of logistics management. They are discussed below- Transportation- It is important to focus on the transportation of the raw materials. There are several reasons for efficient transportation of freight. The specialty and the surplus is responsible for the purpose of trading. The trading enhances the specialty as well as aim for greater surplus options for the panies (Christopher 2016). The process of transportation is required from the process of delivery of the raw materials to the manufacturing process (Christopher 2016). The transportation accounts for one-third of the total logistics costs. It is one of the most important factors that influence the efficiency of the logistics process (Christopher 2016). The panies must aim for maintaining economic transportation facilities in order to control the expenditure of the pany (Christopher 2016). The cost of the transportation should be controlled so that the pany maintains high market share and the logistics costs can be kept under control (Jensen and Bergqvist 2013). The transportatio n costs consist of various expenses such as vehicles cost, cost of terminals, pallets, containers, time and labour (Christopher 2016). The logistics specialist must take into account the operation of transport system in the country so that the highest efficiency can be achieved. The process of transportation is an important step for the purpose of the conversation of the raw materials into finished goods (Eskandarpour et al. 2015). The plexity of the transportation is an important consideration in the total quality management. It acts as a bridge between the consumers and the producers (Christopher 2016). Materials handling- The pany must pay attention to the materials handling department of the logistics management. There are four dimensions in the materials handling job such as movement, time, quantity and space (Alanjari Razavialavi and AbouRizk 2014). This task requires the management of the raw materials from procurement to transport. It is important to increase the effective capacity of the logistics process and reduce the malfunctioning in the product handling process. The pany must ensure that the raw materials are delivered to the clients using an excellent cost-effective carrier and at the right time (Rushton Croucher and Baker 2014). It should also be ensured that the products are not damaged in transit and it is important to maintain the optimum quality of the raw materials (Alanjari Razavialavi and AbouRizk 2014). There can be several factors such as premium freight, production shortage, inventory adjustments and others (Alanjari Razavialavi and AbouRizk 2014). There can be issues with the materials handling managers such as incorrect material bills, shipping errors, production reporting errors, incorrect cycle counts and others (Alanjari Razavialavi and AbouRizk 2014). It is also important for timely release the products so that it can reach the clients in a timely manner. There are a number of issues in the logistics operations that can be faced by the pany. The challenges are described as below- The pany should pay attention to the excellent transport of the modities so that it reaches the final destination safely. The pany should pay attention to the transportation of the goods through the sea containers (Davenport 2013). The pany should focus on the logistics process through the utilization of sea port terminals. An alternative to the sea freight can be â€Å"inland carrier† (Talley 2014). This implies that the pany must utilize carriers other than the ocean modes. These can be water, land or air, depending on the budget as well as convenience of the logistics pany (Davenport 2013). There should be different considerations that should be considered such as cost, time, convenience, nature of goods and others (Davenport 2013). It is important to consider the important port activities that are an important part of the logistics process. There are many disparate activities in the port such as movement of the containers, movement of the ships, cargo management, custom activities, loading as well as unloading of the ships and others (Bichou Bell and Evans 2013). There are other important factors such as channels, anchorages, human resources, berths, tugs, warehouse and others (Bichou Bell and Evans 2013). The logistics specialist needs to gain knowledge regarding the efficient management of the port (Bichou Bell and Evans 2013). These include managing the resources as well as the flow of money. There should be bination of efficient cargo handling services and the reduction of the unit costs (Selinka Franz and Stolletz 2016). It is important to check the application of technology in the cargo handling services. An efficient cargo handling services should ensure minimum damages of the goods (Bichou Bell and Evan s 2013). The logistics specialist should take into account the efficiency of the ports before dealing with them regarding the transport of the goods. The Australian Government has formulated a strict security inspection and quarantine measures for the inward as well as outward movement of goods entering a particular state in Australia (Weng   An and Hu 2015). The quarantine measure checks all the cargo entering the state for possible contamination by microorganisms (Weng An and Hu 2015). The AQIS is a government agency in Australia which is responsible for quarantine laws, on behalf of the Department of Agriculture (Australia.gov.au 2016). This activity would minimize the threat of severe pests and protect the agriculture industry in Australia. The logistics specialist should consider the AQIS specifications so that there can be smooth functioning of the logistics process (Weng An and Hu 2015). The logistics pany should aim for finding a solution for the logistics challenges. It should try to maximize the transportation efficiency of the pany. It should focus more on the creation of dedicated shipping partners which would make the transportation process hassle free. The pany should ensure the timely delivery of the raw materials. The pany should also focus on the security of the goods that are transported. The port activities and the sea freight details must be considered by the logistics specialist. The detailed processes in carrying out supply chain management as well as logistics function of the pany are elaborated. This report would enable the CEO to understand the intricacies of the logistics function. This report is to be submitted during the planning phase of the supply chain management process that would give a clear picture to the senior management of the pany. Alanjari, P., Razavialavi, S. and AbouRizk, S., 2014. A simulation-based approach for material yard laydown planning.  Automation in Construction,  40, pp.1-8. Australia.gov.au. (2016).  australia.gov.au. [online] Available at: https://www.australia.gov.au/ [Accessed 21 Sep. 2016]. Bichou, K., Bell, M. and Evans, A., 2013.  Risk management in port operations, logistics and supply chain security. CRC Press. Bowersox, D.J., 2013.  Logistical excellence: it's not business as usual. Elsevier. Christopher, M., 2016.  Logistics & supply chain management. Pearson Higher Ed. Davenport, T.H., 2013.  Process innovation: reengineering work through information technology. Harvard Business Press. Dekker, R., Bloemhof, J. and Mallidis, I., 2012. Operations Research for green logistics–An overview of aspects, issues, contributions and challenges.  European Journal of Operational Research,  219(3), pp.671-679. Eskandarpour, M., Dejax, P., Miemczyk, J. and Pà ©ton, O., 2015. Sustainable supply chain network design: an optimization-oriented review.Omega,  54, pp.11-32. Fay, S. and Xie, J., 2014. Timing of product allocation: Using probabilistic selling to enhance inventory management.  Management Science,  61(2), pp.474-484. Fernie, J. and Sparks, L., 2014.  Logistics and retail management: emerging issues and new challenges in the retail supply chain. Kogan Page Publishers. Jensen, A. and Bergqvist, R., 2013. Seaport strategies for pre-emptive defence of market share under changing hinterland transport system performance.  International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics,  5(4-5), pp.432-448. Mentzer, J.T., 2015. Logistics Modeling in the 1980’s: A Decade of Challenges. In  The 1980’s: A Decade of Marketing Challenges  (pp. 156-160). Springer International Publishing. Monczka, R.M., Handfield, R.B., Giunipero, L.C. and Patterson, J.L., 2015.Purchasing and supply chain management. Cengage Learning. Rushton, A., Croucher, P. and Baker, P., 2014.  The handbook of logistics and distribution management: Understanding the supply chain. Kogan Page Publishers. Selinka, G., Franz, A. and Stolletz, R., 2016. Time-dependent performance approximation of truck handling operations at an air cargo terminal puters & Operations Research,  65, pp.164-173. Stadtler, H., 2015. Supply chain management: An overview. In  Supply chain management and advanced planning  (pp. 3-28). Springer Berlin Heidelberg. Talley, W.K., 2014. Maritime transport chains: carrier, port and shipper choice effects.  International Journal of Production Economics,  151, pp.174-179. Waters, D. and Rinsler, S., 2014.  Global logistics: New directions in supply chain management. Kogan Page Publishers. Weng, X., An, J. and Hu, Y., 2015. Research on the Market Access of Cold Chain Logistics Service Quality Safety for Agricultural Products.  Journal of Service Science and Management,  8(6), p.793. Wisner, J.D., Tan, K.C. and Leong, G.K., 2014.  Principles of supply chain management: a balanced approach. Cengage Learning.

CAMPAIGNS AND ELECTIONS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

CAMPAIGNS AND ELECTIONS - Essay Example Their contribution leveled off the deficit in hard money collection. The difference in soft money collection between the two parties, however, was insignificant. The Republicans hard money figures doubled the Democrats figures since 1987 to 2002. The gap narrowed in the year 2003. During the period between 2009 and 2010, democrats raised more hard money compared to Republicans. For the period between 2011 and 2012, the figures were relatively equal (Center for Responsive Politics 1). Soft money figures for Republicans were slightly higher Democrats’ figures over the years. The PACs gave to both the parties ,it is noted that at no instant the percentage contributions to the Democrats is a hundred percent, this shows that even the republicans had a share however little it was. The Democrats did better than Republicans did because the party preference expanded. Growth in party emanated from the public perception of poor job performance by the incumbent republican president. The Iraq war in addition to the federal response by the incumbent to Hurrican Katrinan also explains the reason for the low contribution

New Public Management has led to a convergence between the public and Essay

New Public Management has led to a convergence between the public and private sector and enhanced the delivery and organization of public services. Discuss - Essay Example In some public organizations when the measure of success is considered to be on the basis of powerlessness or apathy, all efforts would be geared towards this even if it compromises the quality of services given to the service users. In such instances, the traditional tools and avenues for measuring success in the business and private sector cannot be employed. While the two sectors share several similarities in terms of management methods, they are not entirely the same. This difference can only be appreciated when one accepts that the administration means as well as the values in the sectors are very much dissimilar. Ferlie et al. (2006) notes that the public sector greatly values the interest of the public and also puts emphasis on political compromise when undertaking its initiatives. On the other hand, the private entities are more focused on profitability and they therefore strive to come up with ways of management and operation that will ensure that they achieve the goals. Despite this being the case, there has been a very interesting phenomena whereby there appears to be a convergence between the public and the private sector aided by the New Public Management (NPM). This treatise discusses how this convergence has taken place and the effect it has had on the delivery and the organization of public services. Esping-Anderson (1990) remarks that in order to appreciate the effect that New Public Management has had on both the private and private sector operations, it is imperative to explore the traditional sectors and how the two operated in terms of management and priorities. Haynes (2003) says that businesses in the private sector normally engage in the creation and distribution of services and other commodities to be able to enhance the quality of life of the buyers while at the same time making profits for the shareholders. This, therefore, calls for constant innovations to reward

IMC & Customer Satisfaction...and that i also should be the running Essay

IMC & Customer Satisfaction...and that i also should be the running head for the apa - Essay Example nce, the company would try to offer its products and services to its customers in a cost effective way, hence the advertising strategy should be such which does not lead to incurring high cost for the company and at the same time communicates to its potential target customers in an effective manner. The best way to advertise the products and services offered by Inter-Global Medicare would be the use of digital media. Digital advertising tools such as through its websites, social networking websites, search engines, e-mails, etc. could be effectively used by the company to advertise its products. This can help achieve the overall marketing goals of the organization by reducing the costs incurred on advertising and thereby adding to the profits of the company. Through by effectively utilizing digital media the company would be able to communicate with greater number of people while incurring less cost, and could thus help in boosting the sales and profitability of the company. The job of advertising the products and services of Inter-Global Medicare is not complete until and unless a measuring tool is designed which can evaluate the effectiveness of the advertising strategies employed by the organization (Wells, 1997, p. 4). Now since it is suggested that the company would use digital advertising strategies, it would be ideal for the organization to design an internet based tool that would have a response corner on all the websites where the company products and services are advertised. Whenever a consumer visits the websites and clicks on the advertisement, he would be required to give feedbacks and fill in his contact details. Analysis tools are available which can be used by the company to measure the number of customers who have actually visited its advertisements and what are their viewpoints or queries regarding the products and services offered by the company. In this way it can prove to be an effective tool for measuring the effectiveness of the a dvertising

Physical acitvity experiences Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Physical acitvity experiences - Essay Example It is important for humans to engage in physical activity as early as possible because it is how we can each reach our end goal as human beings. My own physical experience from my childhood that clearly demonstrates this principle of Hoffman could be traced back into my childhood. Ever since I was a child, I yearned to be able to crawl, to walk, and to run so I can eventually play with other kids. With doing simple physical activities such as crawling, walking, or running, I was able to not only fully develop my ability to crawl, walk, and run but also equipped me to be prepared for what my teenage years had in store for me. It was during my teenage years that I started to see the inclinations I had as an individual. With this said, another of Hoffman’s points out that our ability to move is innate but with practice, we can gain control over our physical movements which is the ingredient for excellence (Hoffman,2009, p.71). Relating it to the physical experience I had during m y teenage years, I remembered wanting to be drafted in our school’s basketball team despite my lanky body and average height. However, despite these limitations, I strived to go beyond what’s possible by practicing basketball every after class, even if it entails playing on my own. This daily physical activity became a habit of mine that worked wonders. Eventually I developed the skill for basketball that got me drafted after my third attempt for try outs. This is indeed a clear demonstration of Hoffman’s principle of the importance of practice not only physically but also to develop a mental ability to control our physical movements to achieve an end goal. Another of Hoffman’s principle relating to the importance of physical experience would be the factors that influence the performance of a person which includes societal and environmental factors, pertaining to one’s family, friends, and internal/external circumstances that directly affects oneâ €™s motivation to do things (Hoffman,2009, p.72). Majority of the activities we do are either motivated by opportunities and encouragement or diminished by barriers. Relating this principle of Hoffman to my own physical planned experience I had back in college, would be the time when I wanted to sacrifice one school year of being a regular student, just to be able to finally move up to my goal of playing basketball professionally which required players to do at least 8 hours of practice per day - an obviously unfeasible goal for a regular college student. Though my parents were supportive with my daily practice after school, they were not agreeable to totally skipping a year of school to become a professional basketball player & our funds also did not allow my dream to be realized. With this said, my planned physical experience which is to be the best at playing basketball was greatly affected by the encouragement, motivation, and financial support that was available to me. Inde ed, we are all given in-born and developed abilities to learn through perception and cognition, putting it into good use through the ability to do complex physical activities directed to a certain goal. Though this ability of ours to perform

Analyzing a movie Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Analyzing a movie - Term Paper Example Others had to work in the diamond mines; they were slaves in their own country. Diamonds were what RUF primarily sought and they were essential for RUF’s survival so that they could use them to get weapons. Diamonds were not only mined by the inhabitants of the country, but they were not used by them. They were sold off by RUF through Liberia, which was Sierra Leone’s neighboring country and the president there supported the RUF. The country was also stripped of its assets and the diamonds which were known as blood or conflict diamonds because they were found and mined in the war zone areas and funded insurgencies. Then they were traded all around the world through Liberia. (Mitchell, Zwick and Herskovitz) The movie is set in 1999 and the lives of an Anglo mercenary and a fisherman in Sierra Lone coincide with an American reporter. They are Danny Archer, Solomon Vandy and Maddy Bowen respectively. Solomon’s town is ravaged by the RUF troops and rebels cause the v illagers to run for their lives. The RUF took children and trained them to be their soldiers and basically killers and this violent war began in which there 10,000 of these child soldiers. Solomon is forced to work in the mines for diamonds and so is his son. The kids from Sierra Lone are shown as being below the RUF members and the children are taught to become part of them and forget their own; in other words they become terrorists. Solomon stumbles across a huge pink diamond and hides it and struggles to do that till the end. In jail Danny Archer’s and Solomon’s paths cross and there is again a mix in races between the Anglo mercenary who lived in Zimbabwe and the rural poor of Sierra Lone. Everyone’s goal is still the same regardless of their race or class: to get the blood diamonds before anyone else gets to them. There is a gender bias in the movie since apart from one woman, the rest aren’t highlighted, they being the rural poor and the women in Si erra Lone who suffer terrible hardships as well, mostly with their hands and feet cut off and the movie is predominantly male in nature since the struggle is between the two male actors. Maddy Bowen brings in a further blend of ethnicities because she is an American reporter with her own agenda: she wants to write a story on the blood diamonds and their corporations and this also brings in a tone of an American reporter in a place where women reporters were unheard; in fact the entire movie depicts reporters and such concepts as being predominantly absent in the rural poor areas of Sierra Lone. (Mitchell, Zwick and Herskovitz) The romantic connect in the movie is also between the Anglo and the American ethnicities and Bowen agrees to Archer’s proposal for a story in return for help in looking for Solomon’s family. There is also a hearing in South Africa where Maddy and Solomon travel together where solutions to the blood diamond problem are discussed at the Kimberly Co nference. Solomon again seems to represent the lower class; he is awkward in the court room setting in a suit, and in the room full of groomed people talking about problems they couldn’t relate to since they weren’t experiencing it made him feel further alienated. The Kimberly Process Certification Scheme was an outcome of the conference in 2000 and it was finally implemented in 2003; according to this scheme the diamonds

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Essay Example nd discussion will be useful with respect to convincing the information provided within the text and appropriately/accurately engaging it within everyday life. The first of these 7 habits that are discussed within the effects is that of being proactive. Ultimately, this is simplistic goal is one which is almost each and every individual can utilize within the course of their daily lives. For instance, by analyzing situations, understanding their determinants, and anticipating potential outcomes, be proactive individual will be more suited to maximizing their gains and situating themselves in a favorable position; regardless of the situation in question. Habits two and three are closely linked. Number two focuses upon the need to began with the end in mind. Accordingly, habit number 3 is contingent upon prioritizing goals and putting first things first. As the reader can accurately denote, both of these two habits can easily be applied within the life of the individual merely by taking time to consider the outcomes of key situations and planning the approach that would maximize their own best interests to the higher degree. Habit 4 encourages the individual to think of the â€Å"win-win†. The application that this has is for the individual to break free of the zero sum game attitude that is so oftentimes part and parcel of the way that individuals engage with situations throughout their lives. However, by understanding an problem or issue outside of the terms of personal gain or benefit, analyzing it from different perspectives can be highly beneficial in terms of creating a degree of benefit for all parties involved. Further, habit 5 was concentric upon listening prior to coming forward with potential solutions or means of integrating with a particular issue. From a personal perspective, this habit was perhaps the most beneficial to this particular student; due in part to the fact that my proactive nature oftentimes leads me to seek an immediate fix to a

The importance of small and medium business for national economy Assignment

The importance of small and medium business for national economy - Assignment Example SMEs form the majority of the businesses that operate in a particular nation. Each nation’s economic stability is highly dependent on the number of SMEs operation in those nations (Harvie, 2002). If government policies are not directed towards the promotion of these organizations then there are chances that these organizations may fail to continue to operate and as a result of this these organizations may close. Since these organizations form the majority of the organizations in a nation, they even employ the highest percentage of a particular nation’s work force. If SMEs are not promoted, they might close and as a result of this the economy may experience increase in the rate of unemployment. According to a report that was compiled by ECORYS and commission be the European Commission, 98% of the organizations that were operating in the European region were SMEs and these organizations were employing 67% of the total workforce (ECORYS, 2012). This report depicts that if the European Union does not support its SMEs, the chances are that 98% of the organizations in the region will shut down and may contribute to 67% of the total rate of unemployment (ECORYS, 2012). If SMEs are not encouraged within a particular nation, the wealth gap will further increase. SMEs owners as well as employees working in these organizations are those individuals who fall below the upper half of the line of the income distribution (Hallberg, 2000). This means that SME owners and employees earn less than what is earned by individuals working for large corporations and the money earned by owners of large corporation. If SMEs are not promoted with various policies such as tax benefits and easy access to credit, they will fail to survive the competition they face at the hands of large corporations and due to this the owners and workers of these organizations will experience a decline in their salaries and

Miep Gies Essay Example for Free

Miep Gies Essay Miep Gies (2/15/1909-1/12/2010) opposed the holocaust by aiding the Jews from the Germans. She was one of many Dutch saviors of the Holocaust. For over two years, she administered food, shelter, companionship, and news of the outside world to eight Jewish people. The Frank Family, the van Pels, and a Jewish dentist named Fritz Pfeffer were taken great care of. By virtue of her gratitude, these Jews were fortunate enough to have Miep in their lives. Miep jeopardized her own life when she assisted in hiding the eight innocent people. She brought food for them secretly and knew that there was serious trouble waiting for her if she were to get caught. Her husband, Jan Gies, also cooperated in aiding Jews. He provided ration cards that he attained illegally so Miep could get more food. She also visited various grocery shops each day to refrain from suspicion and prying among other individuals. The employees in Otto Frank’s business were not aware about the Secret Annex. Due to this, Gies attempted to avoid entering the hiding place during office hours. The hiding place is located in an empty part of Opekta’s premises on the Prinsengracht canal. It had an entrance of a regular door and then the door was replaced with a bookcase to make it less questionable. Work went on as usual and normal in the front part of the building. The frightened people were sealed in the Secret Annex near the rear. They stayed as quiet as possible so the workers and Nazis wouldn’t discover them. Gies also provided something especially valuable in their lives, companionship and news of the outside world. Since the Jews could not make any outside commotion, Miep brought them the most recent news of events during World War II. Although the news became increasingly hopeless, her hope never faded. Her and her husband’s presence helped in providing comfort towards the families. Thankfully, their companionship kept everything stable. Despite knowledge of the possible consequences, Miep was determined to keep the Jews safe from the Nazis. She accompanied the Frank family, the van Pels, and Pfeffer with food, shelter, and companionship. Gies was aware of the dangerous risks she had taken upon herself and her husband. She was more than willing to jeopardize her own life to rescue the lives of others. Miep Gies opposed the Holocaust in a way better than any other, by saving lives.

Library System Essay Example for Free

Library System Essay Library System is an enterprise resource planning system for a library, used to track items owned, orders made, bills paid, and patrons who have borrowed. Prior to computerization, library tasks were performed manually and independently from one another. Selectors ordered materials with ordering slips, cataloguers manually catalogued items and indexed them with the card catalog system, fines were collected by local bailiffs, and users signed books out manually, indicating their name on cue cards which were then kept at the circulation desk. Early mechanization came in 1936, when the University of Texas began using a punch card system to manage library circulation. While the punch card system allowed for more efficient tracking of loans, library services were far from being integrated, and no other library task was affected by this change. Following this, the next big innovation came with the advent of MARC standards in the 1960s which coincided with the growth of computer technologies – library automation was born. Now, in our society all over the world technology is the most important advancement, a necessity in bringing about progress as we move along in this computerized world. These changes in effect make man’s life easier and more convenient. The relationship between the library and computer is constantly changing that the use of computer contributes to the way man learns and communicates. It easy in this world to strive for changes and since library is no different from any firm and institution, considering the use of computer to perform a given task will be efficient. Librarians have the responsibility not only to know about the ways in which libraries will be managed using techniques of computerized, but also to be aware of the changes that computerized can bring to the library services in the ne ar future.(Grace, 2011) And as of today our Library System in PUP-Ragay is still operated manually. Manual operating systems are vulnerable to human error. For instance, a librarian who misfiles a borrowers records or indexes a book incorrectly slows down the process and wastes employees time, it’s also slow to operate. Instead of using a computer to issue and take back books, locating and updating a card index is slow and laborious. Manual systems are unable to store large amounts of data efficiently. With manual systems staffs spend a lot of their time on mechanical, clerical  tasks rather than liaising with library visitors. Manual systems in libraries struggle to cope with the recent explosion in information requests, many of them about online resources. Manual systems find it hard to cope with the volume of borrowers inquiries about books and research information. On a simple level, locating a precise book within the local library system is time-consuming without a linked computer network. On another level, meeting an inquiry about a precise online resource becomes almost impossible. According to Robson (2001), usability is a key requirement for users, says Elisabeth Robson, Product manager for Online Computer Library Center. The catalogue has become a way to pull together disparate resources, including commercial resources and web links. management systems also allow circulation, including check in/check out and enable libraries to purchase materials and track where they are. In the 1980s, to relieve overcrowding in existing on-campus library buildings, the UC system constructed two regional library facilities: the Northern Regional Library Facility at UC Berkeleys Richmond Field Station (opened 1982), and the Southern Regional Library Facility on the western edge of the UCLA campus (opened 1987). As of 2007, Northern Regional Library Facility is home to 4.7 million volumes, while SRLF is home to 5.7 million. Each facility receives items from all UC campuses in its respective region of the state, and has climate controls and high-density stacks. Items are shelved two deep and are arranged in a sequence that results in efficient use of space (but is not quite as intuitive as traditional library indexing systems). As a result, casual browsing is prohibited, and the shelves are accessible only by library clerks trained to retrieve and put back items properly. Users must page materials to an on-site reading room or to a library at their home campus. Today, Information Technology (IT) has changed the world massively. (examples include reading our emails and news online using neither paper nor pen, communicating with instant messengers and Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) while not sending letters or going to call centers, watching video or TV shows online without renting / buying of physical DVDs, ordering and purchasing products online from around the world without traveling, and as one of the more recent developments, some minor surgical procedures can be performed without the presence of doctors). And even all the businesses are shifting to computer based system. All of this motivated us to play our  own part in supporting the PUP-Ragay Library in our effort to improve efficiency and quality of the services and reduce the sort of problems and difficulties which accompany the old system. This project is concerned with developing a System using Advance Programming. This System will provide a computer based library system with higher speed, accuracy and efficiency. It should be mentioned that such a system would be replicable and could be easily implemented in other school libraries and public libraries, once it has been successfully installed in PUP-Ragay. Statement of the Problem The problems with the current library system of PUP-Ragay Library are the following: The current system is too complicated as said by the user.  The current system is too slow for processes Scope and Limitation of the Study Scope: The scope of this project is to make a library system that will meet the general and specific objectives and are the following: (a) The proposed system will be used in borrowing, returning and recording of books of PUP-Ragay Library. (b) The proposed system will be having a single application that includes circulation, cataloging and inventory. (c) The proposed system can print the books recorded in the inventory. (d) The proposed system will be having a single username and password. (e) The proposed system may also be used to manage the inventory of PUP-Ragay Library. (f) The proposed system will be displaying a record of past and present borrowers that may be used for future references. (g) The proposed system can create multiple user accounts. (h) The proposed system will be using Visual Basic 6 programming language in making the proposal system. Limitation: The proposed system will be limited to the following: (a) The proposed system will not be using barcode scanner. (b) The proposed system will not be displaying any late returned books with  penalties but will still display a message that the book was returned. (c) The proposed system will not be generating accession number for the books. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework Theoretically, the main purpose of the proposed system is to create an efficient fast and reliable Library System of PUP-Ragay Campus. Conceptual framework paradigm will present to you like input, process and output of the system that will show the great difference between existing system to the proposed system.

Ethical and Moral Issues in Surveillance Technology

Ethical and Moral Issues in Surveillance Technology Surveillance technology:  The ethical and moral dilemma Introduction The global increase in terrorist atrocities, such as 9/11 in the United States and 7/7 in the United Kingdom, have undoubtedly led to the increase necessity for surveillance technology in order to protect society and it’s citizens. The question is how far have these developments reduced the â€Å"claim of individuals, groups or institutions to determine for themselves when, how, and to what extent information about them is communicated to others.† DeCrew (1997) Over the past three decades, digital surveillance technology, and its usage, has increased dramatically across a whole range of areas that impact upon our lives, as both individuals and groups. Advances in digital technology and science means that governments and commercial organisations have the ability to maintain a more widespread visual, physical and data based record of every aspect of a citizen’s life. From CCTV to speed cameras, passports to credit cards and DNA, the tracking of an individual’s movements, financial activity, health, and other relevant aspects, have the potential to be compiled centrally into a complete, and regularly updateable profile. One of the latest such digital advances, is the Electronic Vehicle Identification system (EVI), with which the international movement of vehicles, and by default, their owners, can be tracked. The potential of intrusive surveillance, particularly in terms of digital technology advances, has received little serious attention from the public, despite the fact much of it is not inspected, unregistered, and misunderstood, (Lyons 2002) although possibly deliberately used. The reason for the public’s apparent apathy could result from the subtle way in which technology has been developed and implemented. These developments raise some serious ethical and moral issues. Visual and physical surveillance â€Å"Great Britain is acknowledged to be the most watched nation in the world. It has been estimated that there is one CCTV camera for every fourteen citizens of this country, and you can be caught on camera up to 300 times merely by walking around the streets of your nearest city.† (Kirstie Ball 2006). In its infancy, digital surveillance technology was primarily visual based and utilised for security and protection purposes. A classic example of this is the CCTV use in car parks and towns, and X-ray machines at airports, both used to detect the potential for, and prevention of crime against persons or property. This type of surveillance was overt, in that there were publicly displayed signs clearly indicating the use of such equipment, and no attempt was made to hide the equipment itself. However CCTV, now using the latest digital, satellite, and web-cam technologies, has become far more sophisticated, with the equipment itself a fraction of the size it was. It is used extensively in town and urban locations, both in static and mobile forms. As many celebrities have found to their dismay, range for identification purposes is no longer a problem. Similar developments have occurred in travel. Now it is possible to dispense with traditional (hard) surveillance techniques of x-ray and search, in favour of (soft) automatic sensing devices. Some modes of transport have installed video transmitting devices. (G.T. Marx 2005). Potential travellers do not have to allow this infringement of their rights, but if they do not they will be unable to use the travel facilities. With the EVI system, the EU is endeavouring to develop an international standard, utilised by manufacturers, member state governments, and public bodies, of vehicle identification. The recommendation is to include this device within the vehicle chassis. Ostensibly, the promoters of this system state that its specific purpose is for vehicle identification, location, and security (Intelligent Transport Systems. 2006). However, it is acknowledged that, through other agencies, there is an ability to link this information to the personal details of the car owner. In this respect the EU, recommend the introduction of more enhanced data protection and privacy legislation. Technology is now available that can search without the necessity of consent, detecting persons by such characteristics as scent, breath and odour. For example, a machine can remotely inhale a person’s breath to detect alcohol content, without the consent, or any proactive action, of the individual. Thermal imaging and night-vision technology allows surveillance that was not previously possible, penetrating buildings and darkness. Current research is also looking at the development of technology and equipment able to detect a person’s medical condition, simply by odour analysis. Data Profiling Advances in digital technology have also led to a vast expansion in the way that personal financial, ethnic; lifestyle and other related recorded data is collected and thus performs a surveillance task. Credit cards now contain substantially more information than previously possible, with ‘chip and pin’ cards now able to store a whole raft of personal data. The new UK personal identity card will store a complete personal dossier on the individual, which can include ethnic, age, and medical history. Theoretically, and in some cases in practice, databases held by local authorities, governments, commercial organisations, and other bodies can be linked to other user systems. Ethics and Morals The ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding digital surveillance technology seem to increase in tandem with the advances made in this field. Within these dilemmas there also needs to be a link between practical and philosophical ethical values. Paul La Forge (1999) in his presentation to the OEC suggested that, â€Å"practical ethics can be conceived of as †¦ an ethical vision, nourished and integrated around a philosophical viewpoint.† It follows that governments and businesses should consider this when making decisions regarding digital surveillance. There are three main areas where ethical and moral dilemmas may arise because of the use of this technology. Collection of data Information can be collected from individuals in a number of ways. Firstly, it can be required by law, be that government at all levels or the judicial system. In this instance, there is a demand placed upon the individual to part with the data therefore, providing the collection agency has encompassed sufficient protection, there is no choice. The dilemma facing the collection agency is to ascertain the ethical necessity of the information gathered and avoid breaches of human rights. There are also faced with the moral duty to ensure that any location the information is transmitted to will not use it for purposes that are unethical, immoral or impinge upon the individual human and civil rights. Secondly, information may be collected by request. The dilemma with this method is that, from the providers’ point of view, often it is accompanied by a negative consequence, as we saw with the transport examples given earlier. There is a penalty, or loss, if you decide not to divulge the required information. For example, a person may not be able to purchase a property if they do not divulge financial and other historical information about themselves. The other problem with denying a request for information is the perception that it may leave with the requesting source. Even the denial itself may be noted. Conversely, such information gathering can be accompanied by a positive consequence. If you provide the information, there will be a gain. This could be something like a gift, or a discount on a product or service. As Lyons (2002) observed, this method has the potential for suspicion by denial, or seduction for acceding to the request. In the third instance, data is collected visually with such items as CCTV, speed cameras, satellite, and data provided via credit and store card applications. In addition, information can be collected covertly via such methods as computer and electronic mail monitoring, inadvertently through applications for competitions, insurance, and other products, or through the simple act of completing a survey. Simple innocent actions in releasing information in these ways can lead to personal data being available in the public domain for any purpose. The question the collection sources need to ask themselves in this case is whether collection in such a manner is ethically or morally defensible. EVI is an example of this type of collection; choice here is likely to become restricted once this system is in place. If you own or purchase a car, there is no choice but to accept the knowledge that the vehicles’ location, and by default possibly the owners, can be traced internationally. The only element of privacy choice is being denied the right to own a car. Protection of data The paramount issue is privacy. Under law, every person has a right to privacy. The difficulty lies in deciding where that right begins and ends. For example, there is an ethical vision that a person’s home is their â€Å"castle,† a place where they can expect privacy, unless they invite its invasion. However, in the case of Kyllo v United States (2001), where thermal imaging was used, it was adjudged that there was no expectation of privacy as no effort had been taken to contain block heat emissions. This absolved the investigators from any moral breach by their actions. Privacy in respect of a person’s activity external to the house is a more difficult judgement to make. Many radio shows now offer their thousands of listeners the ability to view web-cams of town centres and other public areas. Does this create an invasion of privacy for the person who might be walking through the streets of the town at that point? Data protection is another human right that is protected by law. The EU have already recognised that, in the development of the EVI system, they are creating the potential for access to personal information about the owner by the use of this technology. However, bearing in mind that this information will be available to the vehicle manufacturers, system designer, and potentially other organisations such as insurance companies and vehicle testing and maintenance location, there is considerable opportunity for such data to be transmitted to any number of sources. Therefore, although the government sources may have strict safeguards, this does not necessarily attach to other sources. Motoring organisations have already expressed doubts about this system, claiming it may breach human rights. Use of data Lyons (2002) observed that the possession of information does provide for a divisive environment. It can be used to denote social standing, ethnicity, financial or physical ability, as well as political persuasion. The dilemma is the factors upon which such divisions are made. For example, social standing may be dictated by the area of residence. Political leanings may be incorrectly analysed. The information itself can be incorrectly organised, creating difficulty for the individual. Conclusion Whilst public security and protection is an admirable goal, questions remain regarding the ethics and morals surrounding digital surveillance technology. Opinions differ on this. Governments claim it is essential in the fight against terrorism, are not over intrusive, and a small price to pay for security. David Reisman’s (2001) book presents an opposing viewpoint, suggesting that surveillance technology doesn’t succeed in its prime target of averting disasters, causes injustice, and squanders resources, whilst at the same time providing the potential for social and personal division and invasion of privacy. Our research shows that a number of ethical and moral issues need still to be addressed and that government, commercial organisations, and other bodies, whilst performing the duties for which they were elected, have a duty to ensure that the performance of those duties do not contravene the ethical and moral rights of the individual. References Ball, Kirstie (2006). Who’s watching you work? Surveillance in business. BBC, The Money Progamme. Retrieved 12 August 2006 http://www.open2.net/money/briefs_20060526watching.html DeCew, J. (1997). In Pursuit of Privacy, Law, Ethics, and the Rise of Technology. Ithaca: Cornell University Press. Intelligent Transport Systems. (2006) Electronic Vehicle Identification. European Commission, Directorate-General for Energy and Transport La Forge, Paul (1999) Practical Ethics through Philosophy: Meditation, Readings, Casework. Presented at the OEC International Conference on Ethic in Engineer and Computer Science. March 1999. Lyons, D (2002). Surveillance and Social Sorting. Routledge. New York Marx, G.T. (2005) Soft Surveillance: The Growth of Mandatory Volunteerism in Collecting Data – â€Å"Hey Buddy Can You Spare a DNA? Dissent, winter 2005 Mohammed E. (1999). An Examination of Surveillance Technology and Their Implications for Privace and Related Issues – The Philosophical Legal Perspective. The Journal of Information, Law and Technology (JILT) 1999 (2). Retrieved 13 August 2006 from http://elj.warwick.ac.uk/jilt/99-2/mohammed.html Reporter of Decisions. (2001) Syllabus of Kyllo v United States (99-8508) 533 U.S. 27 (2001) 190 F .3d 1041. Supreme Count of the United States. Riesman, D. et al (2001). The Lonely Crowd. Yale University Press. New Haven Olliffe, R (2002). Briefing on Automatic Number Plate Recognition and Electronic Vehicle Identification Systems. British Motorcyclists Federation. Retrieved 15 August 2006 http://www.bmf.co.uk/home-page/index-0401.html

Violence In The Media :: essays research papers

Violence in the Media In my essay I will be examining the controversy of violence levels in the media. Although there are many people who express the opinion that there is way too much violence in television for example, there are just as many who feel differently. Without viewer statistics, television would not be what it is. The viewers choose what they want to watch and that is taken into consideration. The more people tune into high violence-filled programs, the higher the ratings for violence become. Surely that cannot be pinned upon the show’s producers. Television prides itself in giving America what it wants, and America wants violence. Around the year 1923, the Federal Radio Commission was formed. They were in charge of regulating what could and could not be aired over the radio. When television came along, the name of the organization was changed to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). They set the standards of television viewing and also provide options for those who disagree. Last year, the FCC adopted rules requiring all television sets with screens 13 inches or larger to be equipped with features to block the display of television programming based upon its rating. This technology is known as the "V-Chip." The V-Chip reads information encoded in the rated program and blocks programs from the set based upon the rating selected by the parent. Thus, the FCC allows violence but also provides an alternative for parents who think their child is exposed to too much violence (whatever that threshold may be, as it is determined by the parent, whereas the V-Chip is programmed by the parents.) Though I do not watch much TV, I am aware of the rising display of violent content on TV. Whether it is through prime time sitcoms or cartoon channels, one can not deny that there is more violence. Cartoon violence used to be very fictional and easy to distinguish as the opposite of reality. Now however, in gruesome, explicit, and too often unrealistic portrayals of death and violence, the flexible minds of children are being not being torn by the moral issues of violence and anger, but the line between reality and fiction has become severely blurred. Death is seen as temporary in most cases, such as cartoons where the character killed comes back week after week only to be killed. But that’s what America wants! Our thresholds of violence are becoming more and more expanded as we see something, get over the initial â€Å"shock† it may have and crave more.

Pain, Depression and Loneliness in Holden Caufield from the novel Catcher in the Rye :: essays research papers fc

The overwhelming pain that Holden had suffered during the past was nonetheless an impact, which stained his future life. Some evidence that implies Holden’s characteristic is how he grudgingly criticizes and scorns at almost everyone he knows. After he leaves Pencey Prep School, he falls into a dilemma where he faces loneliness and depression. More so, he desperately seeks company from clubs, bars, and hotels to have someone to accompany him. The factors that affect this isolation of him are mostly because of the tragic death of his younger brother Allie and the life he has in school. He was an important person to Holden. He mentions how great and smart Allie was out of the entire family. When Stradlater told Holden to write an essay for him Holden decided that he wanted to write a paper about Allies baseball mitt, which had poems written on it and Holden still carries with him the mitt at school (38). The life he has in school is very miserable to him because he has already failed two other schools and it is happening to him again. He says that he did not mean to disappoint and hurt his parents’ feelings so he takes a few days out to Edmont Hotel (59).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The tension between Holden’s growing sexuality and his innocence grows much stronger throughout this section. He wants to live in a beautiful world such as the adult society, but the pressure of his emerging sexuality and the demands of his loneliness oblige him to enter into unfortunate encounters with people like Maurice and Sunny. Maurice is what makes Holden see differently of what the true adult society is, a difficult and irrational world. He is deeply affected by this, which makes him isolated from the outside world.

Against Schools Essay -- Analysis, John Gatto

In John Gatto’s essay â€Å"Against Schools† he states from experience as a school teacher that are current educational system is at fault (148). He claims that classrooms are often filled with boredom manufactured by repetitive class work and unenthusiastic teachings. Students are not actively engaged and challenged by their work and more often than not they have either already covered the concepts taught in class or they just do not understand what is being taught to them. The children contained in classrooms have come to believe that their teachers are not all that knowledgeable about the subjects that they are teaching and this advances their apathy towards education. The teachers also feel disadvantaged while fulfilling their roles as teachers because the students often bring rude and careless attitudes to class. Teachers often wish to change the curriculums that are set for students in order to create a more effective lesson plan, but they are restricted by stric t regulations and consequences that bind them to their compulsory teachings (148-149). An active illustration of John Gatto’s perspective on our educational system can be found in Mike Rose’s essay â€Å"I Just Wanna Be Average† (157). Throughout this piece of literature the author Mike Rose describes the kind of education he received while undergoing teachings in the vocational track. During Mike’s vocational experiences he was taught by teachers that were inexperienced and poorly trained in the subjects they taught. As a result, their lesson plan and the assignments they prepared for class were not designed to proficiently teach students anything practical. For example, the curriculum of Mike Rose’s English class for the entire semester consisted of the repeated reading of ... ...o think for themselves. He believes that students will become more active and informed citizens if they are brought up to think for themselves (155). Gatto’s proposed solutions can be found successfully applied in Mike Rose’s essay. In his essay he describes the mediocre education he received while on the vocational track. Mike’s future was looking rather grim until he came under the instruction of Jack MacFarland. This man was a wise and enthusiastic teacher who challenged students academically. He encouraged and inspired students to read, to be proactive in their classes, and to think for themselves. His classes were engaging and the students were interested in his teachings (165-167). The fact that the same solutions that Gatto proposed in his essay was successful applied elsewhere proves that teaching practices need and can to change for the better.

Film Methodologies †Point Break (1991) Essay

Many different methodologies are vital when examining film. Different aspects and methods of cinema analysis provide critics and audiences with various approaches to establishing certain genres or films. This essay will examine the specific methodologies of the action genre, a consideration of the art cinema and an auteur study. These styles are recognized in Kathryn Bigelow’s Point Break (1991) which provides strong examples of these techniques. An action film is commonly recognized by audiences. The action film portrays strong characteristics and identifiable elements unique to the action genre. Fights, stunts, cars, foot chases, sex appeal and explosions are fundamental sequences of the action genre whereas; character development and well thought-out plot lines are often overlooked. The action genre therefore develops a stereotype that characterizes a film by incorporating such certain elements. Bigelow’s Point Break is stereotypically an action film, as it embodies these, and many more aspects essential to the action genre. Many events in Point Break centre on powerful adrenaline pumping action sequences. Fighting takes place frequently and in many different environments. These situations build tension and provide entertainment. Fist fighting is not the only conflict confronted in Bigelow’s film. Shootouts involving rifles, pistols and shotguns are believed to be essential classics to a good action film. The predominant theme of bank robbery incorporates a mixed bag of violence, weapons and aggressive language. These events evoke powerful emotions from all characters on-screen, creating stronger action elements. Stunts involving explosions intrigue audiences. The imagery of a building or car exploding into the air is typically high intensity action. The situation before, during and after such events provides compelling entertainment. High spectacle stunts and effects are commonplace in the action genre such as Point Break. Both car and foot pursuits are worth noting in the films action archive. High speed car chases deliver an adrenaline and intensity only action audiences are frequent too. This intensity in Bigelow’s film heightens during the foot chase between Reeves and Swayze. Finally, sex appeal and the portrayal of the human body in the film, provides a core of entertainment in Point Break. Through its social theme of surfing and its objectification of both topless men and women, the genre contributes to its already profound stenotype. We must consider these themes in relation to an action genre study to entirely understand and examine and analyze the film Point Break; however, these are not the only themes and features to consider when establishing methodologies specific to the action genre. There are elements of art house technique evident in Bigelow’s Point Break. Although typically an action genre film, it not only controls emotion, mood and style through themes and events on screen but also through its use of audio and visual manipulation. Focusing on visual styles Bigelow echoes a complexity, often introducing elements resembling art house aesthetics. The less conventional filming methods utilized in Point Break reveals an array of long shots, point of view shots, use of intensified continuity and quick cutting. The films themes primarily revolve around the typical action genre story which provides the film with a lot of its power. However, it is worth taking into account what and how these art cinema traits take affect to an audience in Bigelow’s film. Long shots, usually of conversations frequently occur throughout Point Break. These shots sustain a level of depth many other films lack in the action genre. For example, during the fourth scene there is a long pan between Reeves and his partner. This could be used as a rendition of the conventional shot-reverse-shot film technique. The camera moves from left ? right slowly however, because the camera is moving on a semi circle dolly track, we are able to view the conversation from an array of different angles. This stops the need for frequent cutting between shots and shot sizes. Long takes and shot size manipulation are well known examples of art cinema examples in Point Break. Although not common in the action genre, they are uniquely obvious in this film. A framed long shot of Reeves and Swayze stays stationary as they walked towards camera, however the camera continues to frame them from long wide shot ? mid shot. This is very interesting as conventional cinema pieces tend to change shot angles and sizes frequently to make their films visually entertaining. Handheld point of view (POV) shots balance emotion and intensity with reality. Through the use of first person perspectives, Bigelow is truly able to direct audience’s attention and emotions. This method of filmmaking provides a uniquely odd action characteristic. Bank robbery is one of the main themes in Bigelow’s Point Break. The intense topic of armed robbery and violence creates powerful emotions. Intensified continuity and frame cutting allows Bigelow’s film to multiply tension and fear while its being played out onscreen. Shot sizes change repeatedly giving strength to specific visual keys and detail. Bigelow’s attention to vision extends to even the smallest technical details in Point Break. Thus scenes of heightened intensity can not only be controlled by what characters and events are taking place, but that of the camera movement and sound direction. These are the technical elements of art cinema throughout Point Break. Finally, by examining the auteur study of Point Break we must analyze the films director and creative owner. In this auteur study we will examine Kathryn Bigelow, her previous works and inspirations in tie to Point Break. The director was born in California in 1952 and is one of the only female directors to achieve successful Hollywood fame. Her films usually concern the male dominated arena of big budget action cinema. Bigelow has been noted to revise genres similar to violence, voyeurism and sexual politics. Point Break’s genre mix of bank robbery and surfing makes it obvious that Bigelow has a desire to consistently approach and push cinematic boundaries. Her marriage to big time director James Cameron could have provided Bigelow with a stepping stone into the industries top elite. Bigelow first entered the cinema by way of the art world. Her flair for traditional masculine genres in respect to Point Break is exampled by her previous works such as Blue Steel (1990) and art house film The Loveless (1981). Both films clearly represent Bigelow’s style of masculinity action mixed with art house cinema. Bigelow is essentially an important contemporary auteur. In conclusion, methodologies are vital when examining film. Throughout this essay we have analyzed the action genre, a consideration of art cinema and an auteur study. All these methodologies are recognized in Kathryn Bigelow’s Point Break (1991). By concluding with these studies we have deduced that different aspects and methods of cinema analysis provide critics and audiences with various approaches when establishing genre and film. References Allon, Y. Patterson, H. Cullen, D. Contemporary North American Film Directors: A Wallflower Critical Guide. n/a. Published: Wallflower Press n/a. 2003. {http://qqq. cercles. com/review/r11/jermyn. html} n/a {http://movies. yahoo. com/movie/contributor/1800091098/bio} A Strange Gaze. {http://www. popmatters. com/pm/books/reviews/39697/cinema-of-kathryn-bigelow/} 5. 10. 07

Identify Barriers to Effective Communication Essay

Communication can be hard when people speak different languages or use sign language, and it can become frustrating when you don’t understand what a person is saying. Barriers can occur when people find it hard to pass on or receive information because of impairment such as being death or bind which is quite common impairments. If a person is ill or feeling emotional this can also affect the way they communicate as they may be to upset and unable to get the right words out. At times service providers jargon can also be a barrier when they use big technical words to describe something and we are unsure of the term. The same can happen with young people and their slang words for instance, I have came across young people describe say a film as being sick, but to my misunderstanding they actually thought the film was really good so in this case the word sick means good, this is an example of a word meaning something totally different to what you believe it means. The environment y ou are in can also become a barrier to communication in certain circumstances such as, a wheelchair user not being able to see a shop keeper or receptionist as the counter is too high or a person with poor vision not being able to read signs as they are too small, faded or have words missing. So there can be a lot off barriers to overcome when trying to communicate effectively.

Chapter 20 The Dementor’s Kiss

Harry had never been part of a stranger group. Crookshanks led the way down the stairs; Lupin, Pettigrew, and Ron went next, looking like entrants in a six-legged race. Next came Professor Snape, drifting creepily along, his toes hitting each stair as they descended, held up by his own wand, which was being pointed at him by Sirius. Harry and Hermione brought up the rear. Getting back into the tunnel was difficult. Lupin, Pettigrew, and Ron had to turn sideways to manage it; Lupin still had Pettigrew covered with his wand. Harry could see them edging awkwardly along the tunnel in single file. Crookshanks was still in the lead. Harry went right after Black, who was still making Snape drift along ahead of them; he kept bumping his lolling head on the low ceiling. Harry had the impression Black was making no effort to prevent this. â€Å"You know what this means?† Black said abruptly to Harry as they made their slow progress along the tunnel. â€Å"Turning Pettigrew in?† â€Å"You're free,† said Harry. â€Å"Yes†¦Ã¢â‚¬  said Black. â€Å"But I'm also — I don't know if anyone ever told you — I'm your godfather.† â€Å"Yeah, I knew that,† said Harry. â€Å"Well†¦ your parents appointed me your guardian,† said Black stiffly. â€Å"If anything happened to them†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Harry waited. Did Black mean what he thought he meant? â€Å"I'll understand, of course, if you want to stay with your aunt and uncle,† said Black. â€Å"But†¦ well†¦ think about it. Once my name's cleared†¦ if you wanted a†¦ a different home†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Some sort of explosion took place in the pit of Harry's stomach. â€Å"What — live with you?† he said, accidentally cracking his head on a bit of rock protruding from the ceiling. â€Å"Leave the Dursleys?† â€Å"Of course, I thought you wouldn't want to,† said Black quickly. â€Å"I understand, I just thought I'd –â€Å" â€Å"Are you insane?† said Harry, his voice easily as croaky as Black's. â€Å"Of course I want to leave the Dursleys! Have you got a house? When can I move in?† Black turned right around to look at him; Snape's head was scraping the ceiling but Black didn't seem to care. â€Å"You want to?† he said. â€Å"You mean it?† â€Å"Yeah, I mean it!† said Harry. Black's gaunt face broke into the first true smile Harry had seen upon it. The difference it made was startling, as though a person ten years younger were shining through the starved mask; for a moment, he was recognizable as the man who had laughed at Harry's parents' wedding. They did not speak again until they had reached the end of the tunnel. Crookshanks darted up first; he had evidently pressed his paw to the knot on the trunk, because Lupin, Pettigrew, and Ron clambered upward without any sound of savaging branches. Black saw Snape up through the hole, then stood back for Harry and Hermione to pass. At last, all of them were out. The grounds were very dark now; the only light came from the distant windows of the castle. Without a word, they set off. Pettigrew was still wheezing and occasionally whimpering. Harry's mind was buzzing. He was going to leave the Dursleys. He was going to live with Sirius Black, his parents' best friend†¦. He felt dazed†¦. What would happen when he told the Dursleys he was going to live with the convict they'd seen on television†¦! â€Å"One wrong move, Peter,† said Lupin threateningly ahead. His wand was still pointed sideways at Pettigrew's chest. Silently they tramped through the grounds, the castle lights growing slowly larger. Snape was still drifting weirdly ahead of Black, his chin bumping on his chest. And then – A cloud shifted. There were suddenly dim shadows on the ground. Their party was bathed in moonlight. Snape collided with Lupin, Pettigrew, and Ron, who had stopped abruptly. Black froze. He flung out one arm to make Harry and Hermione stop. Harry could see Lupin's silhouette. He had gone rigid. Then his limbs began to shake. â€Å"Oh, my –† Hermione gasped. â€Å"He didn't take his potion tonight! He's not safe!† â€Å"Run,† Black whispered. â€Å"Run. Now.† But Harry couldn't run. Ron was chained to Pettigrew and Lupin. He leapt forward but Black caught him around the chest and threw him back. â€Å"Leave it to me — RUN!† There was a terrible snarling noise. Lupin's head was lengthening. So was his body. His shoulders were hunching. Hair was sprouting visibly on his face and hands, which were curling into clawed paws. Crookshanks's hair was on end again; he was backing away — As the werewolf reared, snapping its long jaws, Sirius disappeared from Harry's side. He had transformed. The enormous, bearlike dog bounded forward. As the werewolf wrenched itself free of the manacle binding it, the dog seized it about the neck and pulled it backward, away from Ron and Pettigrew. They were locked, jaw to jaw, claws ripping at each other. Harry stood, transfixed by the sight, too intent upon the battle to notice anything else. It was Hermione's scream that alerted him — Pettigrew had dived for Lupin's dropped wand. Ron, unsteady on his bandaged leg, fell. There was a bang, a burst of light — and Ron lay motionless on the ground. Another bang — Crookshanks flew into the air and back to the earth in a heap. â€Å"Expelliarmus.† Harry yelled, pointing his own wand at Pettigrew; Lupin's wand flew high into the air and out of sight. â€Å"Stay where you are!† Harry shouted, running forward. Too late. Pettigrew had transformed. Harry saw his bald tail whip through the manacle on Ron's outstretched arm and heard a scurrying through the grass. There was a howl and a rumbling growl; Harry turned to see the werewolf taking flight; it was galloping into the forest — â€Å"Sirius, he's gone, Pettigrew transformed!† Harry yelled. Black was bleeding; there were gashes across his muzzle and back, but at Harry's words he scrambled up again, and in an instant, the sound of his paws faded to silence as he pounded away across the grounds. Harry and Hermione dashed over to Ron. â€Å"What did he do to him?† Hermione whispered. Ron's eyes were only half-closed, his mouth hung open; he was definitely alive, they could hear him breathing, but he didn't seem to recognize them. â€Å"I don't know†¦.† Harry looked desperately around. Black and Lupin both gone†¦ they had no one but Snape for company, still hanging, unconscious, in midair. â€Å"We'd better get them up to the castle and tell someone,† said Harry, pushing his hair out of his eyes, trying to think straight. â€Å"Come –â€Å" But then, from beyond the range of their vision, they heard a yelping, a whining: a dog in pain†¦. â€Å"Sirius,† Harry muttered, staring into the darkness. He had a moment's indecision, but there was nothing they could do for Ron at the moment, and by the sound of it, Black was in trouble — Harry set off at a run, Hermione right behind him. The yelping seemed to be coming from the ground near the edge of the lake. They pelted toward it, and Harry, running flat out, felt the cold without realizing what it must mean – The yelping stopped abruptly. As they reached the lakeshore, they saw why — Sirius had turned back into a man. He was crouched on all fours, his hands over his head. â€Å"Nooo,† he moaned. â€Å"Nooo†¦ please†¦.† And then Harry saw them. Dementors, at least a hundred of them, gliding in a black mass around the lake toward them. He spun around, the familiar, icy cold penetrating his insides, fog starting to obscure his vision; more were appearing out of the darkness on every side; they were encircling them†¦. â€Å"Hermione, think of something happy!† Harry yelled, raising his wand, blinking furiously to try and clear his vision, shaking his head to rid it of the faint screaming that had started inside it — I'm going to live with my godfather. I'm leaving the Dursleys. He forced himself to think of Black, and only Black, and began to chant: â€Å"Expecto patronum! Expecto patronum!† Black gave a shudder, rolled over, and lay motionless on the ground, pale as death. He'll be all right. I'm going to go and live with him. â€Å"Expecto patronum! Hermione, help me! Expecto patronum!† â€Å"Expecto –† Hermione whispered, â€Å"expecto — expecto –â€Å" But she couldn't do it. The Dementors were closing in, barely ten feet from them. They formed a solid wall around Harry and Hermione, and were getting closer†¦. â€Å"EXPECTO PATRONUM!† Harry yelled, trying to blot the screaming from his ears. â€Å"EXPECTO PATRONUM!† A thin wisp of silver escaped his wand and hovered like mist before him. At the same moment, Harry felt Hermione collapse next to him. He was alone†¦ completely alone†¦. â€Å"Expecto — expecto patronum –â€Å" Harry felt his knees hit the cold grass. Fog was clouding his eyes. With a huge effort, he fought to remember — Sirius was innocent — innocent — We'll be okay — I'm going to live with him — â€Å"Expecto patronum!† he gasped. By the feeble light of his formless Patronus, he saw a Dementor halt, very close to him. It couldn't walk through the cloud of silver mist Harry had conjured. A dead, slimy hand slid out from under the cloak. It made a gesture as though to sweep the Patronus aside. â€Å"No — no –† Harry gasped. â€Å"He's innocent†¦ expecto expecto patronum –â€Å" He could feet them watching him, hear their rattling breath like an evil wind around him. The nearest Dementor seemed to be considering him. Then it raised both its rotting hands — and lowered its hood. Where there should have been eyes, there was only thin, gray scabbed skin, stretched blankly over empty sockets. But there was a mouth†¦ a gaping, shapeless hole, sucking the air with the sound of a death rattle. A paralyzing terror filled Harry so that he couldn't move or speak. His Patronus flickered and died. White fog was blinding him. He had to fight†¦ expecto patronum†¦ he couldn't see†¦ and in the distance, he heard the familiar screaming†¦ expecto patronum†¦ he groped in the mist for Sirius, and found his arm†¦ they weren't going to take him†¦. But a pair of strong, clammy hands suddenly attached themselves around Harry's neck. They were forcing his face upward†¦ He could feel its breath†¦ It was going to get rid of him first†¦ He could feel its putrid breath†¦ His mother was screaming in his ears†¦ She was going to be the last thing he ever heard — And then, through the fog that was drowning him, he thought he saw a silvery light growing brighter and brighter†¦ He felt himself fall forward onto the grass†¦. Facedown, too weak to move, sick and shaking, Harry opened his eyes. The Dementor must have released him. The blinding light was illuminating the grass around him†¦The screaming had stopped, the cold was ebbing away†¦ Something was driving the Dementors back†¦ It was circling around him and Black and Hermione†¦. They were leaving†¦. The air was warm again†¦. With every ounce of strength he could muster, Harry raised his head a few inches and saw an animal amid the light, galloping away across the lake†¦ Eyes blurred with sweat, Harry tried to make out what it was†¦ It was as bright as a unicorn†¦ Fighting to stay conscious, Harry watched it can'ter to a halt as it reached the opposite shore. For a moment, Harry saw, by its brightness, somebody welcoming it back†¦ raising his hand to pat it†¦ someone who looked strangely familiar†¦ but it couldn't be†¦ Harry didn't understand. He couldn't think anymore. He felt the last of his strength leave him, and his head hit the ground as he fainted.

The Sexual Objectification of Women

The sexual objectification of women on the mass media is becoming an alarming affair. According to Faridah, et al.'s study, the uses of sex images of women in advertising by different companies who seek to promote their products are doing an injustice to women (Faridah, et al. 4). It is a challenge the in the modern democracies with regards to the objective of building an egalitarian society. It is worrying that the modern democracies would still promote women objectification. It seems that the leaders have remained so dormant and silent in pointing out the levels of discrimination exercised in the mass media in the name of advertisement (Berberick 12). Another thing is that mass media has been used as an instrument to advocate for equal rights among different genders in the society; while on the other hand, it is used to discriminate women sexually. This study is done through different means, which include social, psychological, philosophical and economic rights that examine the way sexual objectification of men infringes on their rights. In this milieu, the media should not be used to exploit women but should be used to promote their rights and the protection different people from the various levels of discrimination. Therefore, this study is important to address the issues of exploitation and discrimination perpetuated by the advertisement companies that promote various products in the market.Literature ReviewThe portrayal of women in the mass media makes them appear vulnerable to manipulation. Scholars such as Turner are worried that women are thinly represented in as actors in the existing news programs, but are instead used negatively in advertising certain products (Turner 2). They appear as young and slim in the advertising programs in the televisions as well as magazines for eye-catching purposes. The women on such advertisement platforms are explicated as instruments to inspire women to like certain products. Their main role is just to make men happy as sexual objects rather than people with value and personality. They are shown to embody every trait of beauty aimed to attract men in like those products. The society is tailored in a way that women are only perceived to look good to impress men, not for their own good. The products are advertised and made to imply that when used, the skin becomes flawless and beautiful that can be admired by men. It is a very unfortunate affair that should be discouraged by all means in the contemporary society for a sustainable greater posterity.Another thing to point out is that the decision to place anything in the media program is influenced by the current state of cultural and social values. In different societies, such values are greatly based on gender. Females in that respect are considered weak and lesser beings to their male counterparts. Through cultural and social norms, women's rights have been violated, and that is why the same spirit spirals to the media advertisements, which portrays women as objects, not humans with values and images to protect. Punyanunt-Carter did a study on the African-American portrayals on the televisions and confirms that this group of people is more objectified in the American televisions (Punyanunt-Carter 245). Faridah, et al. on the other hand states that the movies produced around the periods of the fifties portrayed women as perfect objects of domesticity, while in the contemporary world, women are portrayed as sexual objects that make men happy and satisfy their sexual desires (Faridah et al. 7). The most important question to answer is why women must just be implicated negatively and vulnerable. Even if at times they are portrayed as professionals at times when out of their offices, they are given a negative image. They are only seen as those that can only be teased, admired, played upon and desired by men. In her study on women images in Polish and Malaysian print media, her findings pointed out that even if done in done in different cultures, the study about women portrayal has some profound similarities and commonalities in the findings.The regrettable thing addressed by the experts involved in the subject of women discrimination in the social media is that despite the efforts to establish a gender sensitive society where people are treated equally, there are still rampant cases of discrimination against women in various fronts. Faridah et al. is worried about the same, more so the words used to describe women when portrayed in the social media (Faridah et al. 5). She says that when the media decided to focus on women in the public space during the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, the terms used were very unpleasant. In fact, she considers the words like ‘burning bras', ‘hardcore feminists', and ‘nude women running around the streets of Huarious' among others to be devilish and uncalled for in the contemporary society. This is a weighty proof that the society still remains negative about women and only considers them objects of sexuality that cannot stand for anything good. Even if they try to do something significant, they are only seen to be irrelevant.MethodologyThe study relies greatly on the existing pieces of literature to paint the image of women portrayal in the televisions. It is part of the wider study of women and children's representation in the contemporary media, which include unprinted and printed media. It is generally a qualitative study that relies on the literature about women negative portrayal on the televisions in the United States of America, which is used as a case study to represent some of the discriminations against women that are undertaken silently i n the social media. The ideas by Faridah et al. and Punyanunt-Carter are significant since they explore different findings that have common issues worth addressing in women discrimination in the social media. The scholars are credible in their studies as they explore different pieces of information from different scholars to justify their arguments. They use longitudinal approach to expose the various stereotypical ways in which women are disregarded in the society. I chose the sources since they provide a thrust of the investigation, which is thought-provoking to the readers who are carried with their findings to be part of the fight against women discrimination in the social media.PositionalityI do this study with an aim of addressing some of the injustices done on women in social media. The negative portrayal of women in different fronts like television, magazines, and internet makes them feel less valued in the society. It appears that the society is only happy when they are used. They are seen to best fit as objects to make men happy and satisfy their sexual needs. Sexual objectification lowers their self-esteem. The awful thing is that women from other cultures are more objectified than others are. Women from African-American communities are more portrayed negatively than those from other cultures. This means that social media are only used by the society to promote the cultural negativity about women, something that seems to be more embedded in people. This implies that there is a serious need for attitudinal change to ensure that that mindset is alleviated. Women deserve recognition and respect just as their male counterparts are. They should not be seen as second-class citizens but should be regarded with an utmost value they deserve.Studies show that the spirit of discrimination against women stems from the tradition that only regarded men to manage media. Women are meagerly represented in the employment positions. Faridah et al. states that only 33.3% of women are in full-time employment among the 59 countries they surveyed (Faridah et al. 3). It implies that women do not equal men when it comes to job competition and other important positions in the society. Another unfortunate thing is that different studies have been done on the subject of women discrimination in the social media, but nothing much has changed. It means that various experts need to be more vigorous in addressing the problem of women discrimination in the social media. The revolutionary change in technology has made it easy to sexually objectify women, something that needs to be addressed with sufficient attention to change negative attitude that makes it easy to discriminate women in the social media and other areas. The numbers of women that appear in the social media as main actors are few, but those that are shown on the negative side of the shows are many. Even though men are also objectified, their number is smaller. It means that there is much to be done to deal with the issue of women discrimination. It is also apparent from the study that women are highly discriminated in the social media. The negative portrayal of women on television is fueled by the social and cultural norms that consider men to be superior beings to their female counterparts. They are seen to best fit to make men happy by serving their sexual desire. This mindset does not believe that women can look good for their own sake, but that they do so to attract men. As a result, it is ostensible that it is a negative mindset, which kills women's self-esteem, significance and values, as opposed to men who are seen to be important and worth the best in the society. It remains a serious matter that should not be allowed to thrive in the contemporary society.ConclusionThis study confirms that it is utterly bad to continue the negative portrayal of women in the social media, more so in the contemporary world. As pointed out herein, the portrayal of women in the social media has been marred by a lot of discrimination. For instance, during the fifties, women were pictured as perfect objects of domesticity. Today, they are portrayed as sexual objects that can only be used to make men happy and satisfy their sexual desires. As a result, they are seen to be significant and less valued in the society apart from being there to make men happy. The most regrettable thing is that besides the numerous studies than on the same area, the discrimination against women still thrives. This means that social and cultural norms that disregard women should be attacked and changed. The best way to attack such norms is attitudinal change communication, which would make the society to see life more differently. Instead of being viewed as objects to make men happy, they should be seen as entities that should be incorporated in different avenues to help the society to grow.