Physician Assisted Suicide Is A Controversial Topic

One may have heard of suicide, but not physician-assisted suicide. The two are very different in terms of the act of taking one’s own life. For instance, physician-assisted suicide is done with help from another person, usually a physician; where the doctor is willing to assist with either the means of how to take one’s own life or the actual act itself. This can either be by prescribing lethal doses of drugs to these patients who want to take their own life or by counseling these patients on what drugs they should take. Essentially, it is giving a painless death to someone who is suffering from an incurable illness (MedicineNet Inc. 2015). Physician-assisted suicide is a very controversial topic. Many people feel very strongly about letting people have free will and others feel very strongly about showing these people compassion instead of the help of ending their life (Cable News Network (CNN) 2015). Currently the United States has three states that legalized physician assisted suicide. These three states include Oregon, Washington, and Vermont (Cable News Network (CNN) 2015). All three of these states allow a competent adult who has a terminal illness to choose to end their life with the help of a physician (Death with Dignirty National Center 2015). The people who qualify for this must have at least six months or less to live (Cable News Network (CNN) 2015). Oregon first legalized physician assisted suicide in nineteen ninety-four and it became into effect inShow MoreRelatedThe Controversial Topic Of Physician Assisted Suicide1294 Words   |  6 Pagesmonths in intolerable pain? This has brought up the controversial topic of physician-assisted suicide. In some states physician-assisted suicide has already legalized. One state that legalized physician-assisted suicide was Vermont, â€Å"In May 2013, Vermont became the fourth U.S. state to legalize assisted suicide by allowing doctors to prescribe lethal doses of drugs to terminally ill patients†. (â€Å"Right to Die†). This idea of physician-assisted suicide is to give those that are terminally ill the rightRead MorePhysician Assisted Suicide Is A Controversial Topic2238 Words   |  9 PagesPhysician-assisted suicide is something is always a controversial topic to discuss with anyone. There are some people that agree with PAS for good reasons, yet there are also people t hat disagree with it for good reasons too. During my recent research, I have come to the conclusion that I am for physician-assisted suicide, and I think everyone has the right to die on their own terms. Many people though, including doctors, think that this is morally wrong and it should not be done, but I believeRead MorePhysician Assisted Suicide: A Controversial Topic1566 Words   |  6 PagesPhysician Assisted Suicide has become an enormous debate across the world. It was originally thought to be entirely cruel and immoral, but, as time has passed and medical ethics have been considered, it has slowly gained acceptance. Physician Assisted Suicide (PAS) is a legitimate option for those suffering from painful terminal illnesses. It allows the patient who is suffering to have a choice in the matter of their life, which is valuable when someone is in such a vulnerable place. LegallyRead MoreEuthanasia And Physician Assisted Suicide865 Words   |  4 Pagessubject for people ; add in the idea of assisted suicides and there’s an uproar in society. Euthanasia or physician assisted suicide is a very controversial topic in our society today. Physician assisted suicide by definition is â€Å"suicide by a patient facilitated by means (as a drug prescription) or information (as an indication of a lethal dosage) provided by a physician aware of the patient’s intent (Merriam-Webster). There are two modes of looking at assisted suicides; either it’s seen as an absurd immoralRead MoreEthical Considerations in Dealing with Changes in the Healthcare System929 Words   |  4 Pageshealthcare system. A topic of consideration that creates controversial discussion is the subject of physician-assisted suicide. Physician-assisted suicide is described as the act in which a physician provides the means necessary for the client to perform the act of suicide. The issue of physician-assisted suicide is viewed through many different perspectives. The top ic of physician-assisted suicide has been debated since the development of medicine. Physician-assisted suicide was first legalizedRead MorePhysician Assisted Suicide Should Be Legal1325 Words   |  6 PagesThe topic of physician-assisted suicide has become very controversial because of the ethical questions. The physical state of health of the patient, the patient’s personal life, and even the financial pressure of the patient are all factors to consider when contemplating whether or not to legalize this controversial cause of death. Physician-assisted suicide regarding medical ethics states that a physician cannot legally give any patient a lethal injection to end their life, but they can take theRead MoreThe Legal Definition Of Assisted Suicide987 Words   |  4 PagesPhysician Assisted Suicide Physician assisted suicide is one of the most controversial topics in the medical world today. Many individuals feel as if it is wrong to ask your physician to end your life regardless of your condition. Patients that are terminally ill and that want to end their life with dignity and on their terms often seek assistance in ending their life. They may have many reasons for wanting to end their life instead of holding on such as they do not want to become a burden to theirRead MorePhysician Assisted Suicide : A Controversial Subject1692 Words   |  7 PagesPhysician-assisted suicide is a controversial subject all around the world. Although it is legal in some countries and states, such as the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Oregon, Montana, Washington, and Vermont it is not yet legal in most (Finlay, 2011). People travel from all around the world to these locations to receive information. Physician-assisted suicide is when terminally ill and mentally capable patients perform the final act themselves after being provided with the required meansRead MoreEssay On Physician Assisted Suicide1250 Words   |  5 Pagesattitude towards physician-assisted suicide compared to individual who are conservative (Bulmer, et al. 2017, Choi 2013, Gielen, van den Branden, and Broeckaert 2009, and Jacoby 2010). This is due their attitude that government should take action in order for all citizens to achieve national uniformity (MacLean, 2006). This belief can be applied to legislation surrounding physician-assisted suicide. Liberals may have a more positive attitude regarding physician-assisted suicide due their belief inRead MorePhysician Assisted Suicide : Who Should Decide If A Terminally Ill Person?1146 Words   |  5 Pageshas the right to commit physician-assisted suicide? Introduction Physician Assisted Suicide has been a very controversial topic in the recent years. P.A.S can also be known as physician assisted death or euthanasia. Many states wonder wither this practice is morally right or wrong. Physician Assisted Suicide is when a doctor administers patient lethal drugs, upon the request of the patient, with the end result being death. A popular question that surfaces when this topic is brought up is: Who should

Wells Fargo Company Analysis - 861 Words

Wells Fargo Company was incorporated on the 24th of January, 1929 a bank holding company. Its main purpose is to serve as a holding company for its subsidiaries. It has three segments of operation: Community Banking, Wholesale Banking and Wealth, and Brokerage and Retirement. The Company provides all sort of banking services in the area of retail, commercial and corporate purposes through their numerous banking stores and offices, the worldwide web, and other channels to cater for the needs individuals, businesses and institutions. Their services are available in all the fifty states, the District of Columbia and in other countries. It operates in the Money Center Banking industry (SIC Code 6021). Companies in this industry provides†¦show more content†¦These practices such as good customer service, adopting to technology, effective management and the like have caused the decrease in operating costs which overshadowed the fall in revenue. Wells Fargo’s liquidity ratios are better than J.P. Morgan’s and but not impressive compared to the industry’s average. The debt to equity ratio for Wells Fargo stood at 1.13 compared to J.P. Morgan’s and the industry’s average of 1.42 and 1.09 respectively. This shows that Wells Fargo has been financing their growth with debts but not as aggressive as J.P. This shows that they are putting themselves at undue financial risk if the unexpected occurs. Morgan. A current ratio of 1.1 for Wells Fargo means that they can barely be able to cover their short term debts. J.P. Morgan on the will not be able to meet their short-term debt as they have a current ratio of 0.4. However, investing in Wells Fargo is risky because of its high debt to equity ratio which is greater than 1. This is bad as interest rates rise, additional interest must be paid out of another debt. Wells Fargo’s activity ratios such as the accounts receivable turnover (115 days) are in the same in J.P. Morgan’s and the industry’s average. What stands out is that, Wells Fargo is also efficiently using their assets to generate revenue than J.P. Morgan and the industry’s average. The assets turnover ratio for Well Fargo over the five-year period ending 2013 shows 0.70. On the other hand, JPMorgan and theShow MoreRelatedCareer And Company Analysis : Wells Fargo1284 Words   |  6 PagesCareer and Company Analysis We all have some skills and we are all good in different areas. For me I have always been good in math and that is what led me to choose a career in accounting. At the moment I currently work as an accounting intern and I am gaining experience in being in an office. I think it would be beneficial to further my work experience and I think a bank would be a good choice so I can learn even more skills to become a good accountant. This is why I choose Wells Fargo as my companyRead MoreCompany Analysis : Wells Fargo Essay1390 Words   |  6 PagesUnited States. Wells Fargo through it Retail Banking locations, offer its customers access to the full array of financial services, including banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer finance. Among the products and services offered by its Retail Banking locations. Like many retail banks it offers a great variety of checking and savings accounts; CDs; ATM, debit and prepaid products; Online Banking and Bill Pay; and remittance products. The complete product offering at Wells includes theRead MoreAnalysis Of Wells Fargo Company1282 Words   |  6 Pagesimportant and competitive resource for sustenance of the organisation (Zack, 1999). It can be compared to the strategic resource that can be used and applied in various frames of the organisation. Experienced managers in the organisations believe that company can receive strategic advantage through knowledge and not the strategies or actions implemented by competitors. Knowledge can be regarded as a strong approach that opens numerous ways of success. It is that weapon that help organisation to evaluateRead MoreEnvironmental Scan Essay1306 Words   |  6 Pagesshape strategic management and planning. Companies use business strategies to create value and secure competitive advantages. Measuremen ts verify the company’s strategic effectiveness. This essay is a brief overview of the internal and external environmental scans, competitive advantage, value, and measurements used at Wells Fargo and Verizon wireless. Most of the supporting data are summaries from the Wells Fargo, and Verizon websites. Wells Fargo is a large financial institution with fiveRead MoreEssay about Wells Fargo Financial Analysis1348 Words   |  6 PagesWells Fargo Financial Analysis For this project, we researched Wells Fargo?s performance in the last couple of years as a way to check on its progress to greatness. What we found was an overwhelmingly charismatic company that not only puts down its values in ink, but also strictly abides by them. Much to our surprise, a huge chunk of their thick annual report for 2002 was an honest listing of all the threatening factors that stand in the company?s way rather than its exceptional rankings inRead MoreThe Banking Industry And Wells Fargo1703 Words   |  7 PagesThe banking industry and Wells Fargo must use analytics to better understand market segments to allow them to correctly identity which markets to enter. Without the correct capital allocation within certain markets, any financial institution can see their revenue shares dwindle thus creating a direct need for market forecasting. I can recall a town hall meeting from 2011, where John Stumpf, CEO of Wells Fargo, and several high ranking executives spoke on Wells Fargo’s ability to overcome the obstaclesRead MoreWells Fargo As A Community Based Bank1558 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout the years Wells Fargo has made sure that they never dismissed their focus on helping customers and organizations in the real economy. All the way from checking accounts and debit cards to preserving merchandise to treasury administrations, they help customers deal with their day by day financial lives. Wells Fargo are able to help families purchase their first homes and cars. They also provide financial assets to small and large businesses across the country, which it provides an expansionRead MoreBank Of Americ Market Prospect And Based On Long Term Investitors Profitability1249 Words   |  5 PagesIntroduction Analyzing all the ratios applied to the financial services industry, Wells Fargo emerges as the best company to invest in. We arrived at this conclusion through a process started from the analysis of the market prospect and based on long-term investitors’ profitability. First of all we compared all the four building blocks of the analysis making a selection and finding out that few companies were not as convenient as the others. Even though it isn t the BEST in most of these fieldsRead MoreKey Relationships Between Bank of America and Wells Fargo1040 Words   |  5 PagesKey Financial Relationships: Bank of America and Wells Fargo Bank of America and Wells Fargo are separate banks, however; both of these institutions share many similarities when reporting their financial statements. The inter-relationships of the data provided in the statements seem to exemplify the correlation of accounting practices between these two banks. As large as these two banks have become, and as complex, one can see that the banks’ roots are still tied firmly to the basic accountingRead MoreSWOT Analysis of Wells Fargo1166 Words   |  5 PagesAir Force a bank: Wells Fargo Name Institution Date US Air Force a bank: Wells Fargo Wells Fargo is an American multinational diversified financial services company. The company operates throughout the world. It is one of the largest banks in the US in the state of assets. Moreover, Wells Fargo is the largest market capitalization bank in the US. It takes the second category in the field of deposits, delivery of home mortgage services, and delivery of credit cards. The company has its headquarters

Constitutions and by Laws of Ssg Free Essays

Northside High School Science Club Constitution and By-Laws Article I: Purpose of the Northside High School Science Club The primary purpose of the NHS Science Club is to encourage scholastic effort, foster scientific literacy and interest in science. Article II: Membership Membership in the NHS Science Club is open to students presently enrolled in a science course or were enrolled in a science course the previous semester, has/had an average of 80 and has shown interest in science. Once a student becomes a member, he/she must participate as an active member of the club. We will write a custom essay sample on Constitutions and by Laws of Ssg or any similar topic only for you Order Now Failure to maintain at least an average of 80 each nine weeks will result in probation during which time the student cannot participate in club activities. If the student fails to improve the science course grade to an 80 average for the second consecutive grading period, the student will be dropped from the club membership roll. Activities in which the student must participate may include club meetings, Science Olympiad, Envirothon, other science competitions, and special projects. Article III: Dues Each member must pay a $20. 0 membership fee for dues by the first meeting of the school year. Article IV: Attendance Club members must report to club meetings on the designated days and must remain during the entire time period of the meeting. If a member is not eligible to attend or desires not to attend a meeting, he/she must attend the regular scheduled class for that period when held during the regular school day. A majority of the meetings will be held during nonschool hours for gu est speakers, practice for competitions and/or special projects. Failure of a club member to attend club meetings and participate in special projects may result in a student being ineligible for future club membership. Article V: Advisors The Science Club advisor(s) must be a science teacher. He/she must attend scheduled club meetings. The advisor(s) must show an interest for the betterment of the club. The advisors(s) must approve the agenda for each meeting. Article VI: Projects All club projects must be approved and voted on by a two-thirds majority vote. The club will choose whether or not to have a fund-raising project. Article VII: Officers Section 1. Officers will be elected by secret ballot. Nominations will be made at the first meeting of the school year. The advisor(s) will tally the votes and announce the winning officers. Section 2. President The president of the club will be a junior or senior. He/she will preside over all meetings using order to conduct all procedures. It is the president’s responsibility to plan social activities for the club meetings. Section 3. Vice President The vice president’s job will be to assist the president as needed, to help maintain order, and to preside over meetings in the president’s absence. Section 4. Secretary The secretary will be responsible for all club correspondences, keep accurate records of meetings and an accurate roll of members. Section 5. Treasurer The treasurer is to keep accurate records of money collected and spent. All money is to be turned into the advisor(s) so that it can be deposited into the club account. Section 6. The Executive Committee The executive committee will be made up of the four officers listed above and the advisor(s). The committee will plan projects and activities for the club. Article VIII: Goal It is the goal of the Science Club to strive to promote excellence in scholastic achievement in the science courses offered at Northside High School. As well, the club members will strive to provide opportunities for students to further their interest in all fields of science and to educate the student body of Northside High School and the community about the preservation of the environment and its natural resources. How to cite Constitutions and by Laws of Ssg, Essay examples

Merry Wives Of Windsor Essay Example For Students

Merry Wives Of Windsor Essay The first thing that struck me about The Merry Wives of Windsor was theappearance of some characters from Henry VI: Falstaff, Bardolph, Nym, andPistol. The second thing that struck me was the complexity of the plot. Shakespeare is tough enough for me to understand on its own, without theintroduction of a plots that twist and turn, and entwine each other like snakes. I wish I could see the play performed, because it seems like a delightfulcomedy, and I feel that seeing actual players going through the motionspresented to me in the text would do wonders for my comprehension. This is myfirst play read outside of class, with no real discussion to help me through theparts that dont make a lot of sense the first time around. Fortunately, Ifound some resources on the web that provided synopses of Shakespeares plays,and really aided my understanding of the play. The aforementioned plots remindedme of the plots common to Seinfeld, quite possibly the most glorious oftelevision shows. Seinfeld always had at least two plots going per episode, andthe outcome of one always seemed to have some effect on the outcome of theother. It seems that the original recipe for sitcoms is this: get two plotsgoing side by side, near the end of the piece, smash them into each other, andthen tie up all of the loose ends. This recipe is followed in The Taming of theShrew (the two plots being the marriage of Petruchio and Katherine, and thewooing of Bianca), and again appears in the Merry Wives of Windsor (Falstaffsattempted wooing of the wives being one, and the impending marriage of Annebeing the other.) It would be interesting to see if all of Shakespearescomedies follow this same pattern, and if so, to see if previous playwrightsused the same formula. The appearance of the characters from Henry VI,especially Falstaff, was also quite interesting. For some reason, seeing theother characters shared by the plays didnt do quite as much for me as seeingFalstaff. Perhaps I identify with Falstaff more than the others (a ratherdamning proposition, considering what Im about to write), but I think itsmore likely due to the fact that Falstaff is more prominent that the others. Knowing that Falstaff was a gay lover in Henry VI, and seeing him involved inobviously heterosexual pursuits, I was reminded of our conversation in classconcerning the views of sex in Elizabethan times, compared to our current viewson the subject. I feel that seeing Falstaff in this play gives me a lot moreinsight into the character Shakespeare was trying to create for his audiencesthan Falstaffs appearances that we have seen in class. Falstaff really gaveme the impression of being a scoundrel in this play, plotting to commitadultery, and then add insult to injury by stealing money from the husbands ofthe adulterous wives. Hes accused at the beginning of the play for gettingSlender drunk to pick his purse, and he hires off his friend Bardolph as abartender. Finally, as a result of all of this, Falstaff ends up the butt of apractical joke. Everyone ends up forgiving everyone else, and they all go hometo live happily ever after, and laugh about the events they have just gonethrough. If that last sentence seems lacking, its with reason. I wasrelatively disappointed with the way the play ended. It seemed to me likeShakespeare decided he was finished writing, and looked for the quickest way toend his play. It was one step better than the Greeks method of having one ofthe Gods come down from Olympus, and decide who married who, who died honorably,and who was damned to Hades. I felt that The Taming of the Shrew ended much morecohesively.

Valentine by carol ann duffy free essay sample

Carol Ann Duffy uses an extended metaphor effectively throughout the poem. She uses an onion as a symbol of love. Right from the beginning Duffy rejects the traditional presents given for Valentine’s Day straight away to show she does not approve of the usual gifts and believes love means more than the superficial presents normally given. â€Å"Not a red rose or a satin heart. † This quotation begins the poem allowing the reader to understand the poem not to be about the usual aspects of love. It gives her honest opinion about the good and the bad. In addition, it begins with a negative word, ‘not’ showing her strength of feeling. The onion is the main subject throughout the poem. Duffy describes it as â€Å"a moon wrapped in brown paper. † This metaphor is symbolic of love. The onion skin is like the wrapping paper of a present and the moon is symbolic as it gives off light, like love. We will write a custom essay sample on Valentine by carol ann duffy or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The white represents good things and has annotations of light, hope and happiness. The quotation â€Å"It will blind you with tears† connects the way onions make you cry with the negative aspects of love. She knows love has its bad points, in a relationship lovers can hurt one another and things can go wrong. Furthermore, during the quotation â€Å"It will make your reflection a wobbling photo of grief†, Duffy uses a transferred epithet here to create the effect of the feeling being in the photo rather than the person. The word ‘wobbling’ represents the action made by tears caused by unstable relationships that may collapse because of negative aspects, this relates back to her thoughts that being in love has it’s down side too. Honesty from the poet is a theme throughout the poem. She uses lines which let the reader know her feelings about love and the way she wants to tell the truth about it. â€Å"I am trying to be truthful† shows she is being honest about how things can go. â€Å"Not a cute card or kissogram†, again Duffy rejects the traditional ideas of love letting the reader know they are not appropriate for what she is trying to say. â€Å"For as long as we are† gives a realistic view that love may not be forever. â€Å"Take it†, Duffy uses a direct statement here, as if she will not take no for an answer. It is almost as though she is forcing her lover to take the onion which she believes represents true love. â€Å"Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding ring,† in this quotation Duffy connects the shape of the rings in an onion to the shape of wedding rings. She tells the reader effectively here that love can last forever if you are committed and faithful. However, she follows with â€Å"if you like† allowing us to realise love can go that far if you want it to, showing there is no pressure there, it is up to you if you try. â€Å"Lethal† is a single word used in the next line. The word lethal can be connected with poison and things that are deadly, also it can connect with the words fatal and death which could connect to the fact love can last until you die. The idea of ‘lethal’ is carried on through to the next line connecting to the scent of an onion. â€Å"Its scent will cling to your fingers† is the use of personification, describing how the strong smell of an onion stays around like the poet hopes love or a partner will. The final line uses repetition of the word â€Å"cling†. â€Å"Cling to your knife†, this quotation is like a desperate hope that if you hold onto love it will never leave you. The use of the word â€Å"knife† in the final line is like the poet telling you that you can get hurt like someone stabbing you in the back, or also that you can even hurt someone in love, you have the power. In conclusion, the use of direct statements and an extended metaphor convey the way Carol Ann Duffy feels about love in â€Å"Valentine†. Throughout the poem she rejects the traditional aspects of love with strong feelings of how she perceives it. Successfully throughout, the reader gets to understand her ideas of the true meanings of love and was memorable for me because of this.

NEW EYE TRACKING TECHNIQUES IMPROVE REALISM OF AIR Essays (484 words)

NEW EYE TRACKING TECHNIQUES IMPROVE REALISM OF AIR Essays (484 words) NEW EYE TRACKING TECHNIQUES IMPROVE REALISM OF AIRCRAFT SIMULATORS A simulated flight environment for pilot training may soon be made more realistic through the use of eye-tracking technology developed by researchers at the University of Toronto's Institute of Biomedical Engineering (IMBE). Many safety and cost benefits are obtained by training aircraft pilots under simulated conditions, but to be effective the simulation must be convicingly realistic. At present, th e training facilities use large domes and gimballed projectors, or an array of video screens, to display computer-generated images. But these installations are very expensive and image resolution is low. Further, it would take an enormous amount of addi to improve image quality significantly throughout the whole viewed scene. However, based on the visual properties of the eye, realism can be obtained by providing a high-resolution 'area of interest' insert within a large, low-resolution field of view. If the image-generating computer 'knows' where the pilot's fixation is, it mage there. The technology to make this possible was developed by a research team headed by Professor Richard Frecker and Professor Moshe Eizenman. The work was carried out in collaboration with CAE Electronics Ltd. of Montreal with financial support from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. Their eye-tracker can record and analyze accurately up to 500 eye positions per second. The system works by means of capturing and processing the reflections of a low-level beam o f invisible infra-red light shone onto the eye. Multi-element arrays capture the image of the eye and digitize the information, which is then processed in real time by a fast, dedicated signal processing unit. The difference in position between the ligh tre of the pupil reveals the instantaneous direction of gaze. Developments by the IBME team have significantly increased the speed of signal processing in addition to enhancing accuracy of eye position estimates. Eizenman believes that "these improvements make our eye-tracker very effective in monitoring the large G-force environment where the pilot tends to make larger eye movements because of contraints which exist on movements of his head". In a new generation of aircraft simulators, under development by CAE Electronics Ltd. of Montreal, a head tracker which tells the direction of the pilot's head is mounted on top of the helmet. The eye tracker is mounted on the front of the helmet, and is ll exactly where the pilot's eye is fixating. Frecker said that "successful integration of our eye tracker into the novel helmet-mounted CAE flight simulator would result in a new generation of simulators that would likely replace the current large domes and cumbersome video display units." Initial tests of the integrated system will be carried out in collaboration with CAE Electronics at Williams Air Force Base in Arizona later this year.

Short Paper Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Short Paper - Coursework Example It is evident in the commonality in the forms of discrimination manifested in institutions and across countries and even religions. This paper examines a specific institutional setting, where a student who is from a different race is discriminated based on the skin color. It will also outline an example of a student from United Arab Emirates who is studying in the University of Arizona. Racism can be manifested through stereotypes, prejudice or through discrimination. However, while institutional racism is based on stereotypes and prejudice, it is mainly expressed through discrimination. Racism is dominant in the American society through social institutions such as University of Arizona. American institutions are in most cases oriented to white, Anglo-Saxon, Protestant values and its associated lifestyle. The mentioned is the dominant lifestyle and culture that permeates the whole American society. This does not suggest that there is anything wrong in the cultural orientation. What needs to be questioned is the implication that only protestant values and culture can be viewed as exemplary in the American culture. According to Better (41), the greatness of the United States has been utilized to champion people who have been subjugated. The American troops sent to Haiti and Kosovo attests to the nation’s concern for the poor people. As a student from United Ar ab Emirates, one can face segregation since policies, practices and procedures in most American institutions favor the dominant culture. Different practices and policies aimed at addressing differential outcomes for different races continue to fail to address inequalities and perceived discrimination in various institutions. Broad anti-discrimination legislation and diversity cannot sufficiently address the current discriminations in institutional

A World without Television Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

A World without Television - Essay Example On its part, the television touched our lives in more than one way, some good and some bad. The television made our life colorful (even the earlier black and white variety). It presented us with so many live entertainment options: the musicals, the stage plays, the soap operas, the fashion shows, and that too, without having to step out of our homes. It gave us the power to dream, to identify ourselves with the mannerisms of the most glamorous stars and celebrities, projected in larger-than-life roles. It taught us to desire and acquire things of luxury, through scores of advertisements, by creating an image of reality that is not real. By wanting more and more of these goodies, we helped our industries to innovate, produce more, flourish, and, in turn, enrich our lives further. Television became the homemaker, bringing a sense of togetherness in our families, taming our mischievous children with visual treats specially planned for them, discouraging husbands and wives from quarreling, and taking away the loneliness out of the lives of the elderly and infirm. It also helped us to integrate, not only our nation, but the whole world into a global village, by showing the live images of people from distant regions and countries, share their joys and sorrows, problems and achievements, cultures and traditions, during special shows and news programs. We became visual participants in the grim realities of life, through scenes from accident sites, war fronts, natural calamities like floods, earthquakes, and learnt to have compassion for the less fortunate fellow humans. No other medium could have matched the impact of the real-life visual images of television on our collective psyche. Of course there are certain undesirable things too. It has produced a generation of couch-potatoes who depend only on passive entertainment, and has stripped us of the opportunity and inspiration to do things ourselves. We are forced use less and less of our thinking faculty, creative imagination, and physical effort. Books and other elaborate written materials, which require a certain amount of contemplation, are no longer attractive to the younger generation. Unless controlled properly, unhealthy viewing content can also creep in, and spoil the morals of the society. In spite of good and ugly sides to it, the reality is that Television has grown with us as a family member, and it is already a partner in our social evolution. We can no longer allow it to disappear out of our lives. Our World view in absence of Television: Since olden days, people were interested to know about other civilizations across the globe. In those days, the main source of information was from the personal accounts of the voyagers and travelers. This interest was generally limited to the members of the trading communities, explorers or royal expeditions. Later, with the development of printing technology, written matter became easily transportable and transferable, and helped in creating a better and consistent understanding of the outside world. The nineteenth century saw a sudden rise in industrial activity, made possible by a series of inventions in the field of technology. This triggered a growth cycle of such magnitude that the whole society evolved into a large mass of affluence. This affluent mass of people had the time and

Contingency plan for sailing yachts charter Essay - 1

Contingency plan for sailing yachts charter - Essay Example In preparing in advance, we can also build a safety network, plans of action & response, and gather the equipment required to implement our communication needs for rescue. In risk management, we need to prepare for all contingencies, and as a company we have to insure our staff, customers, and organization against any accidents that may occur during operations and liabilities that may arise from operations. For the purpose of this document, â€Å"Contingency† refers to our preparation in advance for safety responses that may arise in course of operations, â€Å"Plan† means the actions we will organize before, during, and after to address the safety problems, and â€Å"Emergency Situation† is any which puts our customers, staff, or others in the water in danger of physical safety, health, or injury. â€Å"Rescue operations† refer to any situation where company staff or third party organizations are required to travel to a site to assist during a safety problem. â€Å"Communications† refers to not only the content but also the means in which we will transmit messages between offices, people, and other groups during an emergency situation. For purposes of contingency, we recognize responsibilities to emergencies and safety problems arising from: air, water, fire, mechanical problems, weather, interpersonal, health, geographical, and geopolitical risks primarily to operations. In each instance of risk, we plan to have prior tactics and responses prepared in advance to address each contingency with the tools, personnel, and social assistance to manage. Because of the nature of maritime events, and the various contingencies that require multiple forms of backup communication, we have decided to develop a three-tiered communication network for emergency management that provides for all contingencies, even when one device may be broken, out of communication, or in possession by a member injured in an accident. For this we identify three types

Relationship Between Clothing and Identity

Relationship Between Clothing and Identity Material culture refers to the corporal, physical object constructed by humans. Ferguson (1977) describes material culture as all of the things people leave behind . All of the things people make from the physical world farm tools, ceramics, houses, furniture, toys, buttons, roads and cities (Ferguson, 1977). Material culture refers to objects that are used, lived in, displayed and experienced. Human beings interact with material culture as a normal part of their daily lives. Because of this interaction, material culture and human living is strongly influenced by each other, and through studying material culture gives us important clues about the way humans live and have lived in the past. Schlereth (1982) outlines the importance of the study of material culture, arguing that through material culture we can learn about the belief systems the values, ideas, attitudes, and assumptions of a particular community of Society, usually across time (Schlereth, 1982). Schlereth continues to state that a study is based upon the obvious idea that the existence of a man-made object is concrete evidence of the presence of a human mind operating at the time of production. The common statement underlying material culture research is that objects made or modified by humans, consciously or unconsciously, directly or indirectly, reflect the belief patters of individuals who made, commissioned, purchased, or used them, and, by extension, the belief patterns of the larger society of which they are a part (Schlereth, 1982). By studying culture as something created and lived through objects, we learn to understand the social structures, human action, emotion and meaning, and through this process we bond together the crucial link between social and economic factors with the individual actor. This is where we can introduce Marxism mode of production, if we consider material culture in terms of consumer societies we will be able to reproduce and challenge social structures. However, according to Marx and Engels (1965, p32) in The German Ideology: This mode of production must not be considered simply as being the reproduction of physical existence of individuals. Rather it is a definite form of activity of these individuals, a definite form of expressing their life, a definite mode of life on their part (Sahlins, 1976). Marx mode of production worked in the following way; people produce commodities and sell them so that they can buy other commodities to satisfy their own needs and wants. For Marx, production is something more than practical logic of material effectiveness, it is a cultural intention. Take for example, if you look around your home, objects are everywhere cups/mugs, computers, clothing. You know what most of these are because they are part of you familiar environment, if you have grown up with these objects they have been a part of your life. Now if a person lived in a different part of the world and from a different century, they would have a difficult time trying to understand our material culture. Each object has a story to tell, a story which has been shaped by human used. If material objects are been analyzed, basic facts will be recorded, a verbal description which might include measurements, material, any distinguishing features, take note of everything which will determine a clearer picture about the object. This key information will provide material about the technology used, the economy, or social relations within the given society and how they have changed or progressed over time. Clothing and in particular designer outfits can mask a persons real persona. The clothing can be worn to impress and make the wearer feel more confident, however this can also be taken to the extreme in that if a persons self worth and morale is low clothes are used to state falsely about the importance of the person. wearing certain clothing may make a person feel empowered by altering their self perception, they can assist in forming or negating interpersonal and group attachments, mediating the formation of self-identity and esteem and integrating and differentiating social groups classes or tribes (Woodward, 2007, p4 ). Alison Lurie states that in her Language of Clothes that clothes introduce individuals subconsciously before they even say a word (Lurie A. , 1992). Clothes are expressions of identity, one of the permanent ways we signal to the social world who and what we are (Twigg, 2007). It is also an expression and fulfilment of human needs: needs of the body and mind. These expressions function within a cultural context with the purpose of passing on distinctive meanings to social forms. Clothes have been used to identify our links, such as what school we attend, what job we have or what group we are a part of. Schools use uniforms to identify their students, although uniforms can be a really useful if the students are out on day trips, the uniform will be easily recognisable to pick out students, these students then represent the school. Occupations have informed the public of their identity and job titles throught the use of clothing, for example: gardai, nurses, surgeon, security guards, fi re fighters the list is endless when you really think about it. In most cultures gender differentiation of clothing is considered appropriate for both men and women. There are many features that differentiate the gender of clothing. The masculine fabric is relatively caorse and stiff, usually heavier whereas feminine fabric is soft and fine. Masculine colours usually tend to be darker, and feminine coloured clothing is usually light or pastel. The cut in mens clothing is square with corners and angles, and womens dress lines emphasize the flow, the curve and the actual style of the dress. These elements convey social meaning (Sahlins, 1976). The sturctural lines in the cut or patterns of clothing make up analogous class of meaningful contrasts (Sahlins, 1976). The importance seems to be related with three characteristics of a line: direction, form and rhythm. Direction refers to direction in relation to the ground. Form refers to its properties as curved or straight. And rhythm refers to the periodicity of the curve or angle (Sahlins, 1976). In western societies, womens clothing usually consists of skirts, dresses and high heels, while a tie is usually seen as mens clothing. Trousers/jeans were seen as mens clothing but nowadays they are worn by both male and female. Female clothing usually tends to be more attractive in comparison to male clothing. Clothing also identifies religious groups. In some cultures, laws regulate what men and women are required to wear. A man wearing a headgear called yarmulke/kippah is most likely to be Jewish, and a woman wearing a hijab is most likely to be Muslim. The yarmulke is for a Jew to announce publicly that he respects God and that God is above human kind. According to the Talmud (Jewish Religious Commentary), wearing the kippah reminds Jews that there is a higher authority, and it reminds us that God is always watching (Silvestri, 2010). A Muslim woman who wears a hijab not only publicly announces her religious identity, but when her face is covered, men cannot judge her by her appearance, they are able to evaluate her by her personality, character, and morals (Hussein). If we look at the catholic culture in Ireland, a man wearing in a black robe or outfit and a roman collar is identified as a priest and is given the title father in the Roman Catholic churches. In Islamic culture, men prid e themselves in wearing turbans because of its significant spiritual symbolism of their cultural faith. Turbans are still worn today by Islamic men as a way of distinguishing themselves, strengthening social ties and giving a sense of group identity. They are considered important in prayer, where the rewards are said to be twenty-five times greater when the headdress is worn. However in saying all of this the turban also has a practical function, it protects the mens head from the heat and dust in Arab countries (Bennett, 2010). Again, we see clothing as the subconscious communicator that announces ones religious identity publicly. According to Sahlins (1976), American clothing amounts to a very complex scheme of cultural categories and the relations between them. The scheme operates a set of rules for declining and combining classes of the clothing which formulate the cultural categories. Each aspect consists of a range of meaningful variation, some will be present and others will be absent (Sahlins, 1976. p179). The outfit as a whole makes a statement, developed out of the particular arrangement of garment parts and by contrasting to other outfits (Sahlins, 1976. P 179). Strictly speaking, clothes is not a part of your body, however, since your body is largely covered in it, your clothing will affect the way you come across. Seeing as your clothing is such a large factor, on the message your giving off, your appearence is important and will effect the view others have on you. The clothes you are wearing make a statement about your identity and your social status, the colour and style of clothes worn tell oth ers about how you are feeling in the world. Clothes have the ability to inform publicly of ones identity, mood, generation, religion, and culture. It is a language that is constantly in communication with people introduced or not introduced. Although the language of clothes speaks, it may not be completely accurate, but it gives one an idea of an individuals identity and personality. The language of clothes is used daily and can be seen every day in the home, at church, out shopping and within the political world. It is a language that everyone uses as an ice-breaker to open up conversation or to have common ground and value. Clothing as a communicator can be seen worldwide and is used universally. Taking all of the above into consideration one can say that material culture can be compared to a language.

The 360-Degree Performance Evaluation is More Effective than the Standa

Performance Evaluations as an Effective Measuring Tool There are several types of evaluations used by public and non-public organizations. Unusually, performance evaluations consist of the employee and the supervisor. However, the 360 Degree Performance requires more than the supervisor’s perspective. It should also include the co-worker’s point of view (by answering a simple set of questions). This evaluation enforces accountability and produces self-worth and a sense of fairness. Many performance evaluations are limited. However, in using the 360 Degree Performance as a measuring tool, it has been found to be a more accurate way to evaluate an employee’s work performance. The issue is whether or not performance evaluations are an effective measuring tool for evaluating an employee’s knowledge and skills within the organization. Better yet, should employers use performance evaluations at all, or should they design personal organizational goals for each employee? This research paper will examine the effectiveness of performance evaluations, from a narrow point of view (standardize evaluation) to a boarder outlook (360 degree performance evaluation), and by enforcing the accountability from management and the staff, in meeting the overall organizational goal. Article 27 (1) http://www.upte.org/tx/contract/art27perfeval.html defines performance evaluation as â€Å"a constructive process to acknowledge the performance of a non-probationary career employee. An employee’s evaluation shall be sufficiently specific to inform and guide the employee in the performance of her/his duties. Performance evaluation is not in and of itself a disciplinary procedure.† This procedure is usually provided by the Human Resource Depa... ...ss. Drucker, Peter F. (1993). Post-Capitalist Society. New York: HarperCollins Fox J. & Klein, C. (1996). The 360-Degree Evaluation: If You Pay for Performance, Get Co-Workers in On Performance Reviews. Public Management,78 (11),p20. Hayward, Charles, Center for Leadership Development, â€Å"Philosophy and Approach†. Web 13 April 2015 http://www.teamcld.com/Philosophy.htm Mason and Hanger-Silas Mason Co., Inc. – Middletown, â€Å"Best Practice: 360 Degree Feedback Performance Appraisal/Merit System, December 17, 1999. Web 13 April 2015 http://www.bmpcoe.org/bestpractices/external/mash/mash_18.html Panoramic Feedback, â€Å"Objectives of Multi-Source Feedback†, 1998-2000. Web 13 April 2015 http://www.panoramicfeedback.com/internal/objective.htm Quinn, S. (1998). Putting the Human Back into Human Resources. Public Management, 80(9),p23.

A Martian

A Martian Sends a Postcard Home Craig Raine, 1979 Caxtons are mechanical birds with many wings and some are treasured for their markings– they cause the eyes to melt or the body to shriek without pain. I have never seen one fly, but sometimes they perch on the hand. Mist is when the sky is tired of flight and rests its soft machine on the ground: then the world is dim and bookish like engravings under tissue paper. Rain is when the earth is television. It has the properites of making colours darker. Model T is a room with the lock inside — key is turned to free the world for movement, so quick there is a film to watch for anything missed. But time is tied to the wrist or kept in a box, ticking with impatience. In homes, a haunted apparatus sleeps, that snores when you pick it up. If the ghost cries, they carry it to their lips and soothe it to sleep with sounds. And yet, they wake it up deliberately, by tickling with a finger. Only the young are allowed to suffer openly . Adults go to a punishment room with water but nothing to eat. They lock the door and suffer the noises alone. No one is exempt nd everyone's pain has a different smell. At night, when all the colours die, they hide in pairs and read about themselves — in colour, with their eyelids shut. A Martian Sends a Postcard Home –  Analysis Posted on April 6, 2011 by vincentmli The poem A Martian Sends a Postcard Home by Craig Raine depicts exactly what the title says: a  Martian  sending a postcard home. However, we must take into consideration that the Martian is actually on Earth, sending a postcard back to his own home; therefore the descriptions of our everyday objects are depicted so bizarrely.Every detail alludes to items as well as actions seen on Earth. In the poem Raine illustrates several things from the Martian’s perspective: a book, fog, car, clock, telephone, bathroom, and dream. The author applies a very unique technique in describing all these thing s, he breaks down each object into  unrecognisable  parts and compares them to something similar. A book is illustrated and compared to a mechanical bird with many wings. The flapping wings of a bird imitates the turning pages of a book.Raine also says â€Å"some are treasured for their markings† referring to that fact that some books are cherished by individuals because of their â€Å"markings†, the words written in them. One final things the author does to compare a book to a bird is to remove certain qualities of a bird that don’t fit in the description of a book, such as flight, but also emphasize a similarity; a book sitting compared to a bird perching on someone’s hand. This kind of dismantling of objects and  analysing  them in a new perspective is done for every object Raine depicts.Another excellent example of this would be the author’s depiction of a car. The author says, â€Å"Model T is a room   with a lock inside†, fro m an outside look, a car is nothing more than an enclosed space, exactly what a room is. Raine removes features of a room that don’t apply to a car, a room doesn’t lock from the inside but a car does. The ending of the poem is the most intriguing since it doesn’t depict anything tangible but rather the concept of dreaming or the action of sleeping. Raine states that â€Å"at night when all colours die, they hide in pairs and read about themselves — in colour, with their eyelids shut†.It is very clear in these last stanza’s Raine is illustrating a scene where two people are sleeping. The night is dark and no colour can be seen; but in our dreams, where we learn or â€Å"read† about ourselves, we see in colour. This is the only thing that the author doesn’t compare to another object but simply  analyses  what dreaming truly is, using the simplest of descriptions. | | | | | | | | | | |– Craig Raine |A poem I like becaus e of its way of startling us into new ways of looking at things – which is something I feel is very basic to poetry. Startling similes is Craig Raine's specialty, and this poem in particular displays his skill to such virtuoso effect that it lead to a new school of so-called â€Å"Martian† poetry. But I think that Raine is participating in a very ancient poetic ancient tradition. If you look at the poem as a series of riddles to be deciphered by the reader, then that takes us back centuries to the riddle poems in Anglo Saxon literature.Anyway, have fun decoding the images. Poem Summary Lines 1-6 Based on the first six lines, we understand that the poem will be a description of human culture seen through the eyes of a Martian. The speaker uses the word â€Å"Caxtons† to refer to books. Englishman William Caxton, who lived during the fifteenth century, was the first person to print books in English. In these lines, the Martian compares books to birds. Like birds, books have wings (pages), and, like birds, they are marked in ways that give them value.Birds can be distinguished by their color(s), books by the words they contain. Because the speaker does not know the words for â€Å"cry† or â€Å"laugh,† he says that books can â€Å"cause the eyes to melt / or the body to shriek without pain,† referring to humans’ emotional response when they read books. In lines 5 and 6, the speaker returns again to the comparison of books to birds, focusing on the way in which humans frequently hold books. To the Martian, a book in a person’s hands looks like a bird perching. Lines 7-10 Again, a comparison is made between a manufactured item and a natural thing.By saying that â€Å"Mist is when the sky is tired of flight,† the speaker is suggesting that the sky is like a vessel of some sort, presumably a flying saucer or a spaceship. It is often difficult to see the sky when the ground is shrouded in fog, hence the id ea that the sky is resting itself on the ground. In lines 9 and 10, the speaker returns to the image of the book. We can understand this comparison if we see the outlines of things in the world—e. g. , buildings, trees, mountains, etc. —as looking like words, or â€Å"engravings under tissue paper. This is a complicated image to visualize, but it deepens our own understanding of how mysterious the earth could be to someone who has never experienced it before. Combined with some of the other descriptions of the natural world, this image, in effect, â€Å"de-naturalizes† nature for the reader. Lines 11-12 There are several ways to read these lines. One way is to think of rain as being like a machine, in this case television. Like television, rain makes â€Å"colours darker† by shrouding our view of what is really there. This reading also raises the question of what â€Å"is† really there, suggesting that reality itself s colored by the cultural lens es one brings to the act of perception. Another way of reading these lines is to think, literally, of the static that frequently appears on television sets. We often refer to such static as rain or snow. Lines 13-16 A Model T is an automobile. Not knowing the words for the parts of a car, the speaker instead refers to it as â€Å"a room† (the seats and the space inside the car) â€Å"with the lock inside† (the ignition into which the key fits). After the car is started, it moves. The Martian compares the experience of seeing things go by, to â€Å"free[ing] the world / for movement †¦ The â€Å"film† is the rearview mirror. We can see †¦ â€Å"A Martian Sends a Postcard Home† by Craig Raine Upon first read, Craig Raine's â€Å"A Martian Sends A Postcard Home†, that was written in 1979, may seem to be a poem about random happenings on Earth. However, while reading the poem in depth and interpreting the poem it can be read as a Martian tha t was unfamiliar with Earth and its culture. This poem is filled with metaphors. In Craig Raine's poem â€Å"A Martian Sends A Postcard Home† the very literal in essence it is a Martian writing to his people back home.The theme of difference is represented by the Martians lack of the proper words and terms to describe everyday things. The Martian in the poem does this because he has a conceptual viewpoint. The first time we see a metaphor is in the first line, â€Å"Caxtons are mechanical birds with many wings. † (1) I interpreted this as somebody must have pointed at a book and called it a Claxton, or just referred to it as a Claxton, but the Martian might have thought it was a mechanical bird, seeing how an open book does resemble a bird with many wings.The Martian also notices that some books or â€Å"mechanical birds† are more important than others because of what is inside. In the next stanza the Martian says books â€Å"cause the eyes to melt,† (3) probably referring to people when they cry as they are reading. The next line in that stanza shows that at times the people yell or scream because of the books and what they are reading. In stanza three the Martian has never seen a â€Å"mechanical bird† fly but he has seen them perched on hands before. Someone could have construed this stanza as, he never saw a book fly, but he does see them being held by people in their hands.The†¦ Throughout Craig Raine's seventeen-stanza poem several functional devices become apparent with defamiliarisation being the most prominent. Raine also utilises alienation to enable the audience to observe Earth and human behaviour from a Martian's â€Å"alien† point of view. Marxist theories aid in the interpretation of this poem in that Raine suggests that the printing presses rule the world- or at least its censorship. Freudian literary theories also come in useful when analysing â€Å"A Martian Sends a Postcard Home† especial ly with the last two stanzas being about the metaphysical world of dreams.Raine's unusual world hypothetically assumes a future state, where Martians do exist to the extent that they have landed on Earth and are able to have mail delivered back to their home planet giving the poem a somewhat farcical nature . However this poem makes one of its functions very clear; it raises the question of are we alone in the universe straight to the forefront of our minds for a fresh examination. The structure of â€Å"A Martian Sends A Postcard Back Home† is very much like a postcard in itself, only this is a confused postcard. Postcards rarely require a response however, this one certainly does in the form of clarification.The Martian gets confused with the difference between a baby and a telephone, (st10-12), emphasising the confusion between technology and the natural instigated in stanza one, with â€Å"Caxtons† being â€Å"mechanical bird[s]†, meaning newspapers and book s. The suggestion of literature controlling our emotions brought forth in the early stages of the poem introduces Marxist theory into the poem; ideology in modern capitalist societies suggests that whoever owns the publishing houses controls cultural production, and therefore the strength of capitalism itself .Also reinforcing Marxist theories throughout the poem is the fact that the poem is stereotypical of all human†¦ Poem Analysis from Bob :. â€Å"A Martian Sends a Postcard Home† is a poem with seventeen stanzas. All of the stanzas have two lines. At first the title of this poem was kind of tricky for me because it made me think that it was about an actual Martian. It took me a while to figure out that he was talking about things that happen in everyday life in earth. Basically something a Martian would send home if he was on a vacation to earth is what the poem focuses on.Analysis Raine uses several riddles in this poem to show what the Martian sees when he comes to earth. He does a very good job in doing this. For example, the first stanza of the poem is talking about a book. Caxton was the first English printer of books. Mechanical birds with wings refers to the pages in a book. By saying they are treasured for their markings means that if a person enjoys reading a book they will treasure it. Raine also refers to a book in the next four lines.Stanza six comes out straight forward and lets us realize that Raine is talking about fog. It uses words such as clouds. By using context clues we understand the true interpretation. When Raine says â€Å"rain is when the earth is television† he means that the TV is snowy. This is a very good metaphor for rain because it does kind of make the TV look like it is raining. The seventh and eighth stanzas are talking about a car. This is simple as Raine refers to â€Å"Model T. † Raine gives good examples of the car in a Martiani s eyes.For instance, â€Å"Model T is a room with the locks insi de. † I like this line a lot because I have never seen a car in this way before. Raine says it is a room because you go inside of the car and you are away from the outside world. You need a key to turn the car on and off and to lock the car. In this next stanza Raine did a great job of describing a watch or clock. â€Å"Ticking with impatience† is right of the button. That is all a watch and clock do is tick for twenty four hours a day. Stanza ten, eleven, and twelve are on the subject of a telephone.All the phone is what Raine writes in this poem. It does not do anything until you pick it up and that is what Raine is saying. The cries of the ghost is when it rings. Then you â€Å"talk to it†, or answer it and when you are finished â€Å"put it back to sleep† or hang it up. Yes, we do â€Å"deliberately wake it and tickle it with a finger† when we answer it or call someone else. A â€Å"punishment room with just water† is a bathroom. I just l ove these next three stanzas because I love the bathroom. I just doni t think of it as a â€Å"punishment room. † When Raine writes â€Å"only the young are allowed to suffer openly† he is talking about a baby getting their diapers changed in the open. Yet adults have to go to the bathroom and suffer our pain alone. Raine had exceptional use of metaphors to describe the bathroom. The last two stanzas are about sleeping and dreaming. â€Å"When the colours die† is when we go to bed. â€Å"Reading about ourselves with our eyelids shut† is basically saying we are dreaming of ourselves. Raine put this at a good spot in the poem because the end of the poem symbolizes the end of the day.

JFK Assasination essays

JFK Assasination essays They admired his working personality, his lively presidency, and his timeless way, and they respected his courage in time of decision (Patterson 42). These words describe one of the best leaders our nation has ever seen. In his presidency, John F. Kennedy had to keep us out of war during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and also deal with problems in Berlin. Within our country the president promoted civil rights, gave a tax cut to spur the economy, introduced Medicare, and promoted better education. The space program began to soar during his short term in office. Regarding space, Kennedy said, First I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal before this decade is out of landing a man on the moon (Patterson 42). Even though many great programs were introduced during his three-year term, the Presidency of John F. Kennedy will always be remembered because of his assassination and the conspiracies surrounding it. Many people are unaware of Kennedys life before the presidency. He was born of Irish immigrants in Brookline, Massachusetts on May 29th, 1917. He grew up, graduated from high school, went to Princeton University, and then graduated from Harvard. While here Kennedy wrote a thesis about foreign policy that was later published as, Why London Slept. After his formal education, Kennedy joined the Navy in 1941. While serving in the Pacific, Kennedys boat, PT109, was shot by Japanese torpedoes and sunk. In a heroic effort, JFK saved his entire crew from drowning. While doing this, he aggravated a back injury, which forced him to be discharged four years later. (Patterson 42). After his service in the Navy, Kennedy ran for a Boston seat in the House of Representatives. He made it a goal to help working class America by voting for legislation to promote their lives. He also showed strong anti-communist views and criticized Harry S. Truman fo...

How to Write a Book Blurb that Sells (with Examples)

How to Write a Book Blurb that Sells (with Examples) How to Write a Book Blurb: A Guide for Novelists Last updated: 09/12/2018Creating a book blurb, while still technically writing, is closer to a science than an art. The blurb that appears on the back cover of your book, and on your Amazon page, will either:Work by convincing readers to take a chance on it, orFail to engage your target readers.In that sense, a good blurb is anything but subjective. In this post, three publishing editors have shared their secret behind writing the best blurb for your novel.What is a blurb?A blurb is a short description of a book that is written for promotional purposes. Traditionally, it would be found on the inside back cover of a hardback. As paperback publishing developed, readers began seeing the blurb appearing on the back cover. Generally, 150-200 words are more than enough for a full blurb.In the modern publishing landscape, where more books are being purchased online than in bricks and mortar stores, you are more likely to encounter blurbs on the product page of Amazon or any other digital re tailer. Sometimes, you will hear them referred to as ‘book descriptions.’ So now that we have our basic definition out of the way, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work.How to write a book blurb in 4 stepsâ€Å"The opening of your blurb has to be incredibly precise and dynamic,† says editor Rebecca Heyman. â€Å"For a lot of first-time authors, I think there's an instinct to make sure readers understand everything that happened in the book’s universe before the beginning of the actual story. That's generally a mistake.†So if it shouldn’t set the stage for a reader who’s about to dive into your book, what should your blurb do?Without further ado, here's how to write a blurb in 4 steps. Read this: "How to write a novel's blurb in 4 steps" 1. Introduce your main character(s)At its core, novels are a storytelling medium, and that means your blurb has to be about characters. Consciously or not, readers check out the synopsis to see whether they want to spend time with your main characters. They don’t need to know their entire backstory, though - just enough to understand how they figure into the story’s primary conflict...2. Set the stage for your primary conflictThe primary conflict is what drives your story. It’s Harry Potter doing battle against Voldemort and his minions, FBI Agent Clarice Starling negotiating with Hannibal Lecter, or Captain Ahab’s obsessive vendetta against a whale. Without a real-world conflict, you don’t have a story readers can sink their teeth into. This blurb is a lot shorter than the previous examples. It’s a perfect introduction to the hard-boiled, no-nonsense narration style of the books. The short sentences and sardonic interjections (â€Å"Not much of a welcome† and â€Å"not a chance in hell†) might read like clichà ©s, but they capture a traditional hero in the Bogart mold.Also, the blurb gives us a sense of the setting. There’s no reason the reader should be aware of Margrave, but its repetition and context let us know that this is not a friendly town. Without having to spell it out, we can tell that Jack Reacher is about to encounter some small-minded locals.Of course, there are plenty of books to draw inspiration from. Just reach up on to your bookshelf and pull down your favorite book - see how they go about establishing characters, stakes, and conflict.As you’ve hopefully seen, your blurb is one of your book's biggest sales influencers, and it demands as much, if not more, attent ion than any other part of your marketing plan. The time and effort you put into refining and testing your blurb is money in the bank.What are some of the best book blurbs you’ve seen on an Amazon page or on a back cover? Share them in the comments below and tell us why you like them.

Management communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Management communication - Essay Example However, in this situation, we have seen that there has been discrimination in the Dewey Ballantine community, particular against the Asian community, for which please consider this a sincere apology. We do realize that the Asian community seems to have been targeted during this scenario which is not the intended purpose of the various types of communication that have gone out from the partners. Rather, it has been a sincere effort only to realize some facts that the partners actually considered importance in terms of the rights of certain communities including animals. Despite that, the partners should have considered the type of message such communication should send across to certain community members before sending out that email pertaining to puppies. It was noted that the Asian community therefore was offended when this email was sent out because it seemed to completely counter the cultural elements of the Asians and thus we understand that this can create differences amongst employees within the organization. We also realize that this problem may actually persist and cannot be handled lightly. This understanding between communities and their cultural elements must be developed amongst each employee in order to avoid such problems in the future, thus Dewey Ballantine will not take a low profile in this case. Since this ideology of cultural differences can take a twist for the worse as well, it is important that instead of a tarnished reputation, Dewey Ballantine takes corrective as well as preventive steps in order to make sure this situation does not arise again. Therefore, the organization is looking into developing communication guidelines that can help avoid such inclusion of community based elements such that situations like these do not arise in the future. These communication guidelines will include all elements pertaining to culture that would need to be avoided so that

Self Fulfilling and Self Sealing Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Self Fulfilling and Self Sealing Theory - Essay Example The essay "Self Fulfilling and Self Sealing Theory" discusses the self-fulfilling and self-sealing theory, the concepts of â€Å"Power Visible† and â€Å"Power Invisible†, the spray diagram of virtual classroom support system, the system and subsystem diversion in the banking system and system thinking in the light of self-sealing doctrine.Many a time, what we think or vouch, by coincidence, appears to be true. It is called as ‘Self Fulfilling’ which was coroneted as ‘Prophesy’ in the  earlier era. The myths of yesteryears, defying the geographical boundary, had stood for this theory. The mythology of different civilization bears the testimonies of the self-fulfilling prophecy. In fact, our own action many a time makes this theory come true. For example, an average student, discouraged from every corner, ends up with a firm belief that he can never do well in the examination. Eventually, his grade slides and he keeps on losing faith, resultin g much more decay in his career.On the other hand, â€Å"Self Sealing† as a theory leads to the cherished mental set that clings to a particular belief or taboo. Prevailing in the orthodox religious group or in different cults this theory prevents the believer to act normally as he gets paranoid in respect to the outside world order. The hideous crime done by some Jihad groups in terms of culpable loss of human life and resources shows us how a person under the grip of severe self-sealing doctrine can mow down innocent lives.

Direct Marketing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Direct Marketing - Assignment Example 1) Cost – As the cost of per target promotion in direct marketing tends to be substantially higher than that in case of mass marketing, marketers must send their message to a limited audience only, as sending the message to general audience at large with very few of them likely to respond positively or getting converted may increase the cost manifold and thus cause a lot of marketing dollar wastage. 2) Customer irritation – As direct marketing communication tends to be longer and more involving i.e. seek active participation of the customer, than traditional mass marketing communication, thus unnecessary and unsolicited message may lead to customer frustration, resultantly eroding brand equity. Thus in direct marketing it is important to come up with a list of the customers who would be most interested in the product offering and thus will be most likely to respond positively rather than non-responding or responding negatively by avoiding further communication. â€Å"Data Mining is the process of discovering interesting knowledge from large amounts of data stored either in databases, data warehouses, or other information repositories. Simply stated, data mining refers to extracting or "mining" knowledge from large amounts of data.† (Han and Kamber, 2006). According to Fayyad et al (1996), Data mining is an important process of discovering novel, implicit, useful and comprehensive knowledge from large amount of data. For Direct marketing it translates in to a description of likely buyers or responders and thus Data mining helps in securing better results, for a direct marketing campaign than a traditional mass marketing campaign For example - To develop marketing and service –delivery strategy, Harrah’s entertainment Inc., the gambling and hotel chain uses Data mining to target customers on individual basis for direct marketing. Using its sophisticated

Plato Knowledge Essay Example for Free

Plato Knowledge Essay Aristotle’s Posterior Analytics Reading Questions (1) In the Meno, Plato argued that it was impossible for us to learn something genuinely new: if you know x, you needn’t inquire about x, and if you don’t know x, you won’t recognize it when you find it. Thus, Plato argued, all learning is really recollection. Aristotle is trying to give a different answer to the Meno problem, one that doesn’t involve reincarnating or Platonic Forms. What is it? Aristotle argues that knowledge must be displayed in the demonstrative structure of a science. (2) How – and why – does Aristotle distinguish things â€Å"prior and better known to us† from things â€Å"prior and better known by nature? He distinguishes things â€Å"prior and better known to us† from things â€Å"prior and better known by nature† in Posterior Analytics. What is better known to us versus what is known by nature is not the same thing because what is known to us is affected by our perception. Whereas we have what is prior and better known by nature which is furthest from perception (particular vs universal is how he describes such. He proves we will result in Plato’s theory in the Meno of confirming what we already know or learning nothing at all if we fail to distinguish between the two. (3) Why does Aristotle deny that everything can be demonstrated? Aristotle denies that not everything can be demonstrated. Those of which whom allow circular demonstration (i. e: If A, then B, then A must equal C. ) are reiterating that in conclusion, A is A at all times. This method can be used to prove anything because we are not considering the distinctive properties of each factor. Also, concluding that the results are not deduction nor relevant to the things assumed. (4) Can you explain Aristotle’s claim that â€Å"perception produces the universal in us†? How does this explain how something indemonstrable can be known? Aristotle claims that â€Å"perception produces the universal in us† it describes that we have prior knowledge of a subject that is a commonly accepted idea until one of the factors from that subject proves otherwise. It is not to say that because one takes a stand that all others will do as well but through reasoning we can come to a paradigm shift that accepts the new theory. It would not need to be demonstrated then but simply understood and accepted amongst the community. (5) Plato would agree with Aristotle that we can know x in virtue of having demonstrated that x. But he would disagree with Aristotle’s account of how indemonstrable can be known. Why, and what would he say instead? Plato would disagree with Aristotle’s account of how indemonstrable can be known because where he understood universals as forms, Aristotle believes universals are generalizations from particulars.

Choice based letting system

Choice based letting system Committee report on the advantages and disadvantages of choice based letting. Summary This report sets out the advantages and disadvantages of moving to a choice based letting system. 1. Introduction. 1.1. The Communities and Local Government Department introduced the Choice-based Letting (CBL) scheme in 2001 as a pilot programme. The programme was intended to offer ‘choice and make more ‘transparent the letting procedure to the consumer. Based on the Delft model, it was intended to â€Å"replace the points-based allocation system with a lettings service that home seekers could understand†. The Delft model was developed in the Netherlands as a replacement for distribution model or the allocation of social housing via a waiting list. 1.2. This report is intended to highlight the 2. Needs based allocation and its issues. 2.1. Choice in the public service sector has been on the British political agenda since the late 1990s which in turn has forced a revaluation of needs- based allocations. The social rented sector, which consists of local authorities and housing associations, since the 1970s has based housing allocations on ‘need. This has been achieved by allocating ‘points to indicate if a household was living in temporary accommodation, inappropriate accommodation due to overcrowding and/or unacceptable accommodation due to disrepair and condition. 2.2. The ‘needs based system of allocation has become established within the social housing sector as the method for allocating council houses, and with the use of other criteria such as waiting time has endured for over thirty years within the sector including the shaping of guidance and legislation. Needs based allocations were based upon a list of ‘reasonable preferences categorised as †¢ families with dependent children and pregnant women; †¢ people occupying temporary or insecure accommodation; †¢ persons with a particular need for settled accommodation on medical or welfare grounds; †¢ households whose social and economic circumstances mean that they have difficulty securing settled accommodation; and †¢ Statutorily homeless households. 2.3. Within the research some critics have expressed issues with the needs based allocation system. The above categories show the concept of ‘need is narrowly defined and as such has not been implemented correctly, the ability to wait for a better house ensures that those in less ‘need can obtain better quality housing. Discrimination of the sort that is unconnected to housing needs, such as racism, is still present within the system . Specific issues regarding needs based allocations include the unpopularity and complexity of the points system, the suspected tendency of applicants or landlords on a points based system to exaggerate their need in order to secure additional points. Another issue is the idea that this system results in an area becoming overrun with poor and disadvantaged households occupying a single tenure, social rented housing. 2.4. Other, more general inefficiencys relating to the needs based system include the amount of offers to the consumer that are turn down, the large proportion of applications that are of date but still remain on the waiting list, areas of low demand that bureaucratic rationing fail to address and the opinion that the need based system is highly coercive and gives the consumer no real prospects to articulate their opinions or chose accommodation that is to their preference. 2.5. Overall the needs based or bureaucratic rationing system to some commentators and consumers is unpopular and overly complex. The consumer has no concept of the points system and those that do adopt a regime of points chasing. 3. How Choice-based Lettings works 3.1 Choice-based Lettings (CBL) replaces the traditional way of allocating housing under which housing officers seek to match applicants who have priority on the waiting list to available vacancies. CBL allows applicants for social housing (and existing tenants seeking a move) to apply for available vacancies which are advertised widely (eg in the local newspaper or on a website). Applicants can see the full range of available properties and can bid (ie. apply) for any home to which they are matched (eg a single person would not be eligible for a three-bedroom house). The successful bidder is the one with the highest priority under the scheme. Authorities provide feedback that helps applicants to assess their chances of success in subsequent applications. 3.2 Choice Based Lettings is a new approach to letting homes which will make lettings arrangements more transparent and give prospective tenants more control over the lettings process. Rather than homes being allocated by the council, choice based lettings allow tenants and prospective tenants to bid for the available properties they are interested in. Available homes will be advertised on the internet and a bi-weekly property magazine, which will allow applicants to see what Council or housing association housing is available in the area and enable them to play a greater role in the process of selecting their home. 3.3 Choice based lettings will not increase the amount of available social housing. However, people seeking re-housing will have accurate information on how many homes are actually available, where these homes are located and their chances of being housed. As the system is much more transparent, housing applicants will have all the information necessary to make their own informed choices. Bidding All registered home-seekers will be able to ‘bid for the homes advertised. Bidding can be done through the internet, by phone, by text or by coupon. The property magazine will list many details including a photograph of the property, its location and the size of household that the home is suitable for. People will only be able to bid for a property suitable for their household size. A shortlist of bidders will be drawn up and the home-seeker in the highest priority will be offered the property. If they do not want to accept the property it will be offered to the next highest bidder and so on. Other Options One of the advantages of the transparency of choice based lettings is that it helps people understand the likelihood of being re-housed, and consider options other than being housed by the Council or housing associations. There are many other alternatives to social housing available to home-seekers in Thanet and we will regularly publicise alternative options, such as the Councils Rent Deposit Scheme, and promote the role of the Housing Options Team in working with home-seekers to resolve their housing difficulties. Information Applicants have more information on their housing opportunities. They will see the number of properties available and the level of priority of successful bidders. Choice based lettings will also provide a place to advertise opportunities for shared ownership, and hopefully in the future private rented options. While creating greater choice for people seeking re-housing, choice based lettings encourages people to take greater responsibility for their future housing. It helps people who are unlikely to get into social housing to consider other options to meet their housing requirements. Support Other statutory and voluntary agencies that support vulnerable members of the community will have an important role in ensuring their clients benefit from Choice Based Lettings. We will help train these agencies so they can support their clients to bid for properties. Our Housing Options team will also provide advice and support. There will be a variety of ways to bid. People will be able to choose a method which suits them. Information will be available in public areas and we will also have a procedure where people can bid on the behalf of others, e.g. relatives and friends, staff or support workers, who may have problems otherwise. We will monitor people who do not bid to find out why this is happening and see if there is anything we can do to help them. There will be more publicity on choice based lettings before the launch so that everyone is aware of the new system, and where they can go for more information and help.

Analysis of A Clean Well-Lighted Place by Ernest Hemingway Essay exampl

Ernest Hemingway's short story, "A Clean, Well-Lighted Place," first published in 1933, is written in his characteristic terse style. It is the story of two waiters having a conversation in a cafà ©, just before closing up and going home for the night. They cannot leave because they still have a customer. One is anxious to get home to his wife, while the other sympathizes with the old man sitting at the table. Without realizing it, they are discussing the meaning of life. I believe that the story takes place during WWI in Spain. There is a soldier walking on the street with a girl. The waiters comment that the guard will pick them up soon if they do not get inside. It is between 2:00 and 3:00 a.m. because the cafe is about to close and one of the waiters is in a hurry to get home. There are three main characters in this story. The first is a younger waiter. He is inconsiderate, cocky, impatient and selfish. He seems to think that his needs are more important than anyone else’s. When the old man asks for more brandy, the waiter tells him, â€Å"You should have killed yourself ...

Accounting for Business Combination and Ethics Assessment Essay

Early 2011, Yung Limited acquired 75% interest in Chum Limited. This is the first time of Yung Limited preparing the consolidated statement. A few issues regarding to the first consolidated financial statement have been raised up. This report is used to solve the raised issues and explain general principle of consolidation accounting. Before the acquisition, Yung and Chum was a competitor to each other. Their financial statement only reflects their own financial position. Thus, the balance and transaction would state in the financial statement. The reason is that they are viewed as two entities from different aspect. However, after the acquisition, Yung and Chum became a single combined entity as Yung held 75% interest in Chum. It means Yung can direct business decision of Chum according to its preference. This view would be reflected in the consolidated financial statements. Since the consolidated financial statements view Yung and Chum as a single combined entity, the balance due to each other would be eliminated as a result. As Yung and Chum are the single entity, the amount due to Yung is set off by the amount due from Chum. One entity cannot lead money to itself in order to create a liability or asset. See more:Â  Capital budgeting essay As Yung and Chum are a single entity, transactions with each other are just a transfer of assets or liabilities, or a relocation of assets, this would not recognise as a transaction in the consolidated financial statements. Generally, profit margin is added to those transactions. These profit margins would raise book value of assets in the transactions. The common example is inventory and non-current assets. Those profit margins can only be realised in the sales or disposal to external parties. Thus, the consolidated financial statements would eliminate those unrealised profit also. According to the above statement, Yung gets the power of control in the Chum. It means every transaction can be related to Yung and its decision. The relationship between Yung and Chum would be a parent-subsidiary, and not just similar to other associate as investor-investee. Therefore, it is required to show consolidated financial statement of Yung and Chum. The distinction between consolidation and equity basis of accounting is power of control. Generally, if an entity holds more than 50% interest of another entity, the entity is required to consolidate the controlled entity. However, if an entity holds about 20% to 50% interest of another entity, the entity is required to practising the equity basis of accounting. Comparing with the two methods, consolidation basis of accounting would reflect a smaller net income if there are a large amount of inter-company transactions. Equity basis of accounting only show the share of profit in associate as an extra item in the income statement of investor (parent in consolidation). Thus, it would be a greater net income unless there is a net loss in the associate. In conclusion, different methods change the net income. The financial statements for equity basis of accounting are only included the investment in associates as non-current assets, and recorded as cost plus fair value adjustments in the net shares of equity. The consolidated financial statements are the combination of the parent and subsidiaries, and goodwill, excluding inter-company balance and cost of control. Thus, Yung’s financial statements would be greater value in statement of financial position if all investments were consolidated, but smaller value in income statement as there are large amount inter-company transactions between Yung and Chum. Equity basis of accounting could provide a greater asset value to Yung, but a smaller net income to Yung also. Dear Mr. Li, Memo regarding the revenue cut-off problem of Yung Limited According to the recent conference with John Au, President of Yung Limited, he reported that the sales of Yung Limited in 2010 incorrectly included sales in 2011. However, we did not discover this material error by our audit work. This material error overstated the profit of Yung in 2010 by 10%, but understated the profit of Yung in 2011 by the same rate. John Au also mentioned that he prefers to ignore this error because he can get benefit from this error as the understated profit. Ignoring revenue cut-off problem leads to conflicts in ethical and professional. This conflicts with fundamental ethical principles, such as integrity, objectivity and professional behavior. In the integrity aspect, we should not disclose any untrue financial statements. In the objectivity aspect, our professional judgments should not be influenced by reputation of our audit firm and any potential legal sue. In the professional behavior, we should comply with relevant laws and regulations relating to this revenue cut-off problem. The following are some of my recommendation on this revenue cut-off problem. The first recommendation would be reporting to the board of directors directly. This material error should be report the board of directors of Yung Limited. This report could give directors’ chance to decide the treatment of this material error. They could estimate effect of this material error. The second recommendation would be following John Au’s suggestion, ignoring this material error. This could be a way to accommodate our client. The third recommendation would be requiring John Au to correct this material error. This could reflect the true financial position of Yung Limited. The fourth recommendation would be convening an extra-ordinary general meeting with all shareholders of Yung Limited. This EGM could give shareholders opportunity to aware this material error, and understand the potential. Finally, I would recommend asking John Au to correct this material error. Although this correction would make him loss of a bonus, this is a fair treatment to all stakeholders at all. Also, this solution could reflect the professional position of our company.

My Personal Philosophy of Teaching and Learning †Education Essay

My Personal Philosophy of Teaching and Learning – Education Essay Free Online Research Papers My Personal Philosophy of Teaching and Learning Education Essay My personal philosophy of teaching and learning is a product of many influences including experience, instruction, a melding of the philosophies of past educators and an intrinsic sense of what is right. I have attempted to capsulate this philosophy in the seven belief statements that follow. I believe learners are individuals who bring a unique set of needs and abilities to the classroom and that they should be encouraged to become responsible for their own learning, especially as they mature. I believe that a teacher’s primary role is that of a facilitator of learning, creating opportunities for learning which improve the chances of student success. I believe that the learning process is multifaceted, unique to each student, yet containing unifying threads of purpose in addressing the student as a whole person. I believe the curriculum is a set of criteria designed, as much as possible, to meet the needs of students and should be offered to them in as compelling a manner as possible. I believe that the learning environment is a shared, public place that must be welcoming, safe, and the responsibility of those who share it. I believe it is important to recognize and embrace the diversity that arises from the milieu as it provides a myriad of opportunities to enhance student learning and growth. Finally, I believe if I am to be a good facilitator of the learning of others, I must embrace opportunities to expand my own learning on an ongoing, life-long basis. This includes allowing myself time to be critically reflective. These seven belief statements form the core of my current philosophy of teaching and learning. This is an evolving philosophy that is heavily influenced by experience and driven by a passion for teaching and a passion for learning. It is my hope that these passions will combine to kindle a similar passion for learning in the students in my care. The articulation of a philosophy is the first and often smallest step in its development. Once stated it must be measured against a set of recognized criteria or standards to determine its validity. I propose to measure my personal philosophy of teaching and learning against the standard created by the five principles of philosophy outlined by George Counts. The first of these standards requires that my philosophy be based on my experiences. I have worked in a public school as a Resource Educational Assistant for the last five years and this, coupled with my own educational experience has afforded me the opportunity to observe dozens of teachers at close range. From this myriad of experience I have formulated a philosophy that focuses on the student as an individual. I recognize through this philosophy that students bring different biological, psychological and social experiences to the classroom. My philosophy welcomes and validates each of these experiences, valuing the benefits they bring to the learning environment. My philosophy, though brief, is comprehensive in its outlook. Its focus on the needs of the individual is counterbalanced by the belief that the classroom must welcome diversity and requires that this same environment be one in which all participants have an equal voice. The belief that the classroom must be welcoming, safe and tolerant of the diversity of the milieu validates all elements of each learner’s social heritage while striking a balance between meeting the needs of individuals and preparing them to become accepting, contributing members of society. Similarly, the increasing onus on the learners to take responsibility for their own learning as they mature, balances the demands of childhood with the demands of maturity. This philosophy is very consistent in all aspects. By asking students to become responsible for their learning and their classroom they are being taught to become responsible for themselves and their environment later in their lives. The aim of this philosophy has been to develop a sense of self worth while acknowledging that all other participants must also be valued. If my role as a teacher is to facilitate student success then it is consistent that the atmosphere created in the classroom be one that welcomes all participants and places their safety above all else. It also follows that a curriculum that is approached in a manner that embraces the diversity of the milieu encourages the success of every student within the classroom and beyond. This philosophy incorporates practicality in its focus on my own self- development. If my philosophy is evolving then it stands to reason that this evolution will keep it current and adapted to any particular time and place wherein it is practised. Similarly, if I am constantly upgrading my skills through on-going, lifelong learning then my practices and my philosophy will reflect a harmony with the current trends that reflect what is best for the students. This sensitivity to, and incorporation of, the latest methods in education should empower students to be successful in their current and future environments. Since my philosophy incorporates sensitivity to current ‘best practices’ in education, the unique individual requirements of the students, and the diversity of the milieu, it cannot help but be satisfying to its adherents. Students will find their needs met and their social heritage embraced and validated. I too will be satisfied because personal growth will result from the passionate pursuit of further knowledge and experience. Based on the proofs offered in the preceding five paragraphs, it may be concluded that my philosophy of teaching and learning is consistent with George Counts’ five principles of philosophy. There are three belief statements within my philosophy that I would like to defend in greater detail. The first step in affecting a greater defense of these belief statements is to show that they are grounded in the theories of past philosophies of education. The first belief that I propose to defend further is that learners are individuals who bring a unique set of needs and abilities to the classroom and that they should be encouraged to become responsible for their own learning, especially as they mature. This belief represents a combination of three different schools of educational philosophy: Existentialism, Idealism and Realism. Soren Kierkegaard, the founder of Existentialism, stated that each individual has his or her own inner history and they choose for the future (Stendahl, 1976). Adherents to the philosophy of Idealism maintain that â€Å"education is the process of unfolding and developing that which is a potential in the human person† (Van Nuland, 2001). The concept of the learner as an individual is supported by Dr. Howard Gardner who developed the theory of multiple intelligence which states that students learn in several different ways (Gardner, 1983). The later part of this belief statement is supported by a component of the school of Realism which maintains that learning is the students’ primary responsibility. (Van Nuland, 2001) The second belief I would like to defend in greater depth is that a teacher’s primary role is that of a facilitator of learning, creating opportunities for learning which improve the chances of student success. The School of Existentialism supports this belief through its emphasis on individuality. It states that it is the teacher’s role to help students make their own choices and become their own person (Van Nuland, 2001). It also states that it is the teacher’s responsibility to create a learning situation where students can express their subjectivity (Van Nuland, 2001). The School of Idealism claims that it is the teacher’s responsibility to stimulate learner awareness of ideas and be a transmitter of cultural heritage (Van Nuland, 2001). The school of Idealism also states that a teacher should expose students to the wisdom in cultural heritage so they can know, share and extend it (Van Nuland, 2001). Finally, Freidrich Froebel, the founder of kind ergarten, may be cited in support of this belief as he emphasized the importance of the learner’s own self-activity (Van Nuland, 2001). The third and final belief that I would like to further defend is that the learning environment is a shared, public place that must be welcoming, safe, and the responsibility of those who share it. The definition of the student according to the school of Idealism is a mind to be nurtured and protected (Van Nuland, 2001). This directly supports the notion that the classroom must be a safe environment. The purpose of a school according to Idealism is to expose students to the wisdom in cultural heritage so that they can know, share and extend it (Van Nuland, 2001). If the classroom described in my personal philosophy is truly welcoming then it will embrace the varied heritages brought to the classroom by the students and foster an appreciation for each of them. Having shown that each of these belief statements are grounded in past philosophies of education I would like to continue to defend them by connecting them to more modern thought and my own practical experience. In many ways this has already been completed. The schools of Existentialism, Idealism and Realism were discussed in our Education and Schooling class lecture presented by Dr. Shirley Van Nuland on November 7, 2001 at Nipissing University. The theory of multiple intelligence, developed by Dr. Howard Gardner was discussed in detail in Professor Darlene Brackenreed’s class and in an assigned reading (Gardner, 1983). The belief that the teacher is a facilitator is supported by Dr. Ron Weeks and Professor Jeff Scott who instruct future teachers (at Nipissing University) how to teach Science to Junior/Intermediate students (Weeks, 1997). Both advocate the extensive use of discrepant events and that the teacher should often act as ‘a guide on the side’ so s tudents may learn for themselves. This is also how the theory of Pragmatism sees the teacher’s role. The third belief, of those chosen for further defense, is supported by Barrie Bennett and Peter Smilanich who co-wrote Classroom management: A thinking and caring approach. This text was consulted regularly in the Management class of Dr. Pat Falter at Nipissing University. In their book Bennett and Smilanich state that inclusiveness is what a teacher does to ensure that all students experience a sense of belonging. This, they maintain, is one of the first steps in creating a safe, welcoming environment within the classroom (Bennett, 1994). The importance of a safe environment is also reflected in the Ontario Government’s policy on Safe Schools which has been adopted by the Avon Maitland District School Board, among others. Finally the need to create inclusiveness was made clear to me by Mr. Douglas Yeo who has taught for thirty-three years in various public scho ols in and around Goderich, Ontario. It was Mr. Yeo who first explained to me that if you give students enough say in a classroom, they will take responsibility for it. He then proceeded to successfully demonstrate this concept during my first two practica. These three beliefs must also be applicable in the classroom if they are to remain an integral part of my philosophy. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, I have seen the belief that a classroom must be welcoming, safe and the responsibility of those who use it practised successfully by Mr. Yeo in his Grade 7/8 classroom. I would use his practices of allowing the students to co-write the classroom rules and decorate a large portion of the room themselves so that they buy in to the concept that the room is their responsibility as well as mine. In addition I will also instigate the practice of holding a weekly classroom meeting in the style set out by Dr. Janet Nelsen in her book Positive discipline in the classroom: Developing mutual respect, cooperation and responsibility in your classroom. One of these meetings would be held on the first day of classes and continue at least once a week with the expectation that they could be held more often if necessary. In this approach stud ents and I sit in a circle and are encouraged to share first compliments, then concerns. All members of the circle will be afforded the opportunity to speak when they are in possession of the ‘talking stick’ (to borrow from an Aboriginal People’s model). The meeting will be run according to an agenda that will be formulated from suggestions contributed to an anonymous suggestion box (Nelsen, 2000). If run properly, this meeting will constitute a safe, comfortable environment in which we can praise each other, share our successes and resolve any problems within the classroom. Ensuring that my primary role as a teacher is that of a facilitator of learning, creating opportunities for learning which improve the chances of student success will require some adjustments to the teaching style I use on my future practica. I do not believe I can completely avoid the ‘sage on the stage’ approach, as my Faculty Advisor, Mr. Stephen Binstock described it, but I hope to minimize its use. Increased use of single and multiple activity lesson plans, which utilize a hands-on, Pure Inquiry or Directed Inquiry approach to student learning, will enable me to act as a facilitator of learning more often. The artful use of questioning should also lead to a sense of self-discovery for the students. I am fortunate because I have access to a tremendous wealth of resources like the Curriculum Planner, experienced teachers, and board sponsored workshops. All of these will support me in this approach to teaching. The most challenging belief to bring into practise in the classroom will be to treat learners as individuals who bring a unique set of needs and abilities to the classroom and who should be encouraged to become responsible for their own learning, especially as they mature. The first step to adjusting to the uniqueness of learners will be close observation and extensive pre-assessment at the beginning of the school year. This assessment will be of learning styles as well as knowledge. Most important of all I will try to get to know the students early by showing an interest in them. To do this I will make myself available to listen to the learners by being in the classroom early, greeting them at the door ‘morning, noon and night’ and after recesses. I will inquire about their extra curricular activities, coach as many of their teams or clubs as I can and have regular contact with their parents. I believe the use of a rubric for assessment is the best way to encourage students to accept responsibility for their work. Though it will involve more work for me I hope to vary the means of assessment and evaluation so that it will permit students to succeed by choosing a method of evaluation that recognizes their unique learning style. I am confident that the staff at Nipissing University will assist with any problems I may encounter and they represent over one hundred years of the best quality teaching. The resources I have become familiar with during my year at Nipissing will be invaluable sources of lessons that will accommodate the uniqueness of the students. Finally, gatherings like the 2001 Checkmark Conference on Assessment will provide wonderful opportunities to view various methods of adjusting my teaching and assessment, helping me stay up to date on the latest ways to facilitate learners. This ends my in depth defense of three elements of my personal philosophy. In conclusion I would like to illustrate how my philosophy of teaching and learning will contribute to my teaching practice. The exercise of defining and defending my philosophy has enabled me to consolidate my approach to teaching. This philosophy has allayed much of the initial trepidation I had about teaching. I am now confident if I adhere to this philosophy, until experience evolves it into an even better one, I will be equipped to provide the best possible learning environment for the students in my care. My philosophy will cause me to continually strive to find better, learner centered, approaches to teaching. This philosophy will cause me to be constantly aware of the value of the approaches others take to teaching and I will be open to incorporate the ‘best practices’ I see into my evolving philosophy. The most important impact that this philosophy will have on my teaching practice is that the students will experience greater success because of it. My assessment, evaluation and teaching methods will all be varied so that they maximize the students’ chances to succeed. I realize that the requirements it will place on me will be onerous but I sincerely believe that this flexibility is possible. The challenge that I look forward to most is providing a welcoming, culturally diverse environment, free of prejudice, gender bias, and violence. This philosophy, if adhered to, will create this kind of environment in my teaching practice. The elements of my philosophy will be the source of the enthusiasm for creating this type of environment and of the passion for teaching and my own ongoing learning. These two emotions, enthusiasm and passion, coupled with student success, will become the earmarks of my teaching practice as a result of this philosophy of teaching and learning. I am so looking forward to putting it into practise and watching it evolve. Respectfully submitted by Russell A. Watson: Section 8 Bibliography Gardner, Howard. (1983). Frames of mind. In Richard L. Bucko Brain Basics: Cognitive Psychology and its implications for education. In Kathleen M. Cauley (Ed.), Educational psychology 01/02 Annual editions. (2001). Guilford, CT: McGraw- Hill Dushkin. Nelsen, J., Lott, L., Glenn, S. (2000). Positive discipline in the classroom. Developing mutual respect, cooperation and responsibility in your classroom. Seneca Falls,NY: Parma Publishing. Stendahl, Brita K. (1976). Soren Kierkegaard. Boston: Twayne Publishers. Van Nuland, S. (2001). The developing reflective role model teacher building a personal philosophy of teaching continues to meet and debate philosophy. Retrieved February 2, 2002, from nipissingu.ca/education/BEd/educ4204/educ4204.html. Weeks, Ronald C. (1997). The child’s world of science and technology: A book for teachers. Scarborough: Prentice Hall. Research Papers on My Personal Philosophy of Teaching and Learning - Education EssayStandardized TestingThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug UseInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesOpen Architechture a white paperBook Review on The Autobiography of Malcolm XThree Concepts of PsychodynamicAnalysis of Ebay Expanding into AsiaTrailblazing by Eric AndersonAnalysis Of A Cosmetics AdvertisementRelationship between Media Coverage and Social and