Commodities Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Commodities - Essay Example The immeasurable significance accorded to oil, in all the forms it occurs, by political empires can be traced to as early as the first decade of the 20th century when governments started showing interest in private oil companies. On behalf of the British government, Winston Churchill proposed a bill to the House of Commons in 1914 that sought to acquire a 51% controlling stake in the Anglo-Persian oil company at a cost of  £2.2 million. A hidden motive can be seen in this move because the acquisition agreement further stated that the government would install two directors in the company that would have no hand in commercial activities. Rather, their only role would be to sanction political matters and those relating to Admiralty oil contracts. Fuel oil prices were already rising occasioned by the rising need of an industry that relied on oil-powered propulsion. It was the view of some members of the House of Commons that the cause of the price increase was a new special use found f or oil, and not some rings or trusts, which was also contributing to its shortage. From the notion of a new and special use being discussed in the House, one can easily link oil to politics. It was soon established that the â€Å"use† was in the form of other countries stocking up on fleets of oil tankers in case of war. From history, we learn that Britain had an abundance of coal at the beginning of the 20th century, but no oil reserves had been discovered within it by that time. It then becomes apparent that the decision to acquire private oil companies was informed by the technological advancements of the Anglo-German maritime prowess. Only oil, and not coal, could provide the edge crucially required in terms of resilience and speed to assist the British maintain the naval supremacy that the Germans were so relentlessly working towards. Here, it can be seen how oil had become a key strategic commodity in national policy. While the Anglo-Persian deal assured the firm a vari ety of secure markets and capital, it, more significantly, provided a steady oil supply to the British government and guaranteed its survival, albeit only for a foreseeable future. This is further confirmed by Churchill’s revelation that the acquisition’s objective was to keep the navy prepared. A critical examination of that objective brings to light the fact that the precedence of investing oil in national security over a flourishing market was legitimized just before WWI. This is even strengthened by the way advocates of national security within the British government supported the limiting of oil in the market. Moving toward WWII, it is apparent that it was an affair between industrial powers. Therefore, nations that had no oil were greatly disadvantaged. For

The Beatles and the Topic of Androgyny Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Beatles and the Topic of Androgyny - Essay Example In other words, androgyny is the state of breaking away from the rigid following of cultural principles, especially regarding the issue of gender roles. Ideally, application of androgyny is reported to have gained popularly from 1960s, but by 1950s and before, people used to strictly follow their cultural practices. As such, androgyny is a component of societal revolution and cultural changes, an aspect that is portrayed succinctly by Jane Tompkins in her â€Å"I Want to Hold Your Hand†. This essay will delve into the lifestyles of the Beatles music band, and the manner in which they advanced androgyny during their reign. The essay will close with a personal reflection on different Tompkins’ opinions regarding androgyny and the cultures of nineteen fifties and sixties. Discussion In her autobiography, Jane Tompkins reveals how her exposure to Beatle’s music transformed her life. She portrays Beatle’s music band as androgynous, something that was apparently likable by the women and hence encouraging them to become androgynous. Jane Tompkins grew up as shy person who, like any other persons who resembled her character, is interested in only the ordinary formalities of life. As such, she was less concerned with the interests of her contemporary peers, and in fact her gender role was defined by the American popular culture of the 1950s, an era in which gender roles were inflexible. Her perception about popular artists such as the Rolling-stones is very negative, and that is why she says that they were violent humans and that they possessed male chauvinist traits, a penchant she affirms that is associated with hostility towards the opposite gender. In the 1950s, the roles of gender were firmly based on guiding principles designed by the society. For example, masculinity was represented by roughness of a male as a person. Tompkins says Beatles seemed human because of the way they sing about â€Å"love† which she did not understand w ell. This shows that she is endured to the emotional aspect of their culture, which was uncommon in the music of 1950s. She confirms this when she says that most of the popular songs she used to listen were not human in this sense (Womack and Todd 216). What Tompkins loves about Beatle’s music most is the fact that it was innocent and appealing; it had childlike quality and it focused on quality, rather than being world-weary and knowing. What’s more, their songs were very simple and they did not pretend to be righteous or possess sheer masculinity, again supporting them in breaking away from following of rigid roles of gender, which she describes as being androgynous. Beatles had compassion for people other than themselves, because they told real stories, which again is a cultural transformation – breaking away from self-aggrandizement to thinking about others. To her, this is a reprieve because the songs by Beatles did not have the authoritarian baritone of ma ny males’ singers whose tone declared the superiority of the male opinion, which was an advancement of male sexism. This is also seen where the author says that the singers of the sixties had stopped having authoritarian baritone of many male singers. She adds that this change is not only generational, but it has something to do with gender, being vulnerable, authority, showing your feelings, and wanting to

Cultural Diversity Thinking About Diversity and Inclusion Essay Example for Free

Cultural Diversity Thinking About Diversity and Inclusion Essay What are the dimensions of cultural diversity? Identify and briefly explain the dimensions by referencing both textbooks. In reading both textbooks and doing further research on the Internet I, believe La Trobe University best summed up the dimensions of cultural diversity. The dimensions of diversity can be divided into two groups, primary dimensions, and secondary dimensions. â€Å"While each dimension adds a layer of complexity to individual identity, it is the dynamic interaction among all the dimensions that in? ences self-image, values, opportunities and expectations† (La Trobe University). Primary dimensions are characteristics unique to an individual. Examples would include age, gender, mental and physical abilities, race, ethnic heritage, and sexual orientation. â€Å"These six differences are termed core dimensions of diversity because they exert an important impact on our early socialization and a powerful, sustained impact on our experiences, values, assumptions and expectations throughout every stage of life. Secondary dimensions are less visible, and many contain a greater element of choice† (La Trobe University). Examples would include geographical location, military and work experience, income, religion, first language, family status, and education. With what ethnic, cultural, or other groups do you identify? Describe what members of your social circle have in common. I am a White female who grew up in a middle-class environment. I have no specific ethnic or cultural group that I identify with because I am of mixed race. As stated in one our readings there are no longer any â€Å"pure races. My father is Lithuanian, while on my mother’s side there is Bohemian, Italian, and German. I consider myself to be American. While growing up I was exposed to many cultures. I had Whites, African Americans, and Asians in my neighborhood as well as in school. My mother taught me to be open to everyone, no matter his or her skin color, even though she contradicted herself when it came to dating someone from another race. On the other hand, my mother’s family was very prejudice. My first husband was Jamaican and my mother did come to terms with her contradictions in her beliefs. Not one family member from my mother’s side of the family attended my wedding but all family members from my husbands’ family attended. I am thankful for the values my mother instilled in me. What is the difference between diversity and inclusion? According to The University of Tennessee Libraries Diversity Committee (2003), â€Å"Diversity can be defined in many different ways. Diversity is a commitment to recognizing and appreciating the variety of characteristics that make individuals unique in an atmosphere that promotes and celebrates individual and collective achievement. Examples of these characteristics are: age; cognitive style; culture; disability (mental, learning, physical); economic background; education; ethnicity; gender identity; geographic background; language(s) spoken; marital/partnered status physical appearance; political affiliation; race; religious beliefs; sexual orientation. † Like diversity, inclusion can be defined in many different ways. Oxford Dictionaries defines inclusion, as the action or state of including or of being included within a group or structure. Inclusion is to have the same choices and opportunities that other people have. Being appreciated and accepted for whom you are. An inclusive environment is one in which every individuals unique perspective contributes to the overall success of the organization (Kottak Kozaitis, 2003). What is the importance of workplace diversity training? If we are to understand the importance of diversity training, we first must define workplace diversity. According to Schaefer (2011), workplace diversity is defined as â€Å"the ways in which people differ that may affect their organizational experience in terms of performance, motivation, communication, and inclusion. Being â€Å"inclusive† means that diverse employees believe that they are vital contributors to the organizational mission, not marginalized, or tolerated. † The importance or advantages of workplace diversity training, affects all areas of business as stated in the following areas. Creativity is increased because different cultures can offer insightful alternatives others may not have considered. Productivity is increased when people of all cultures pull together toward a inspiring goal. New language skills are developed enabling people from other cultures help us understand not just their words but also the meaning behind what they are saying. By connecting to people with different backgrounds, others will gain a greater perspective on how different cultures operate and experience greater success in areas of global business. New processes are created when people with different ideas come together and collaborate. What is your experience with workplace culture? Could there be, or could there have been, more inclusive? I did experience workplace culture while enlisted in the United States Air Force for 10 years. The military employs many people from diverse backgrounds. More than 60 years ago in 1948, Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9981 abolishing segregation in the military and ordering full integration of all the services without regard to race, color, religion, or national origin. This order was more symbolic than effective so to level the playing field Equal Pay Act of 1963 and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 were enacted. Still, these acts did not meet the needs of women in the workforce and the Equal Employment Act of 1972 was signed. The percentage of women enlisting in the Air Force has tripled because this act was signed. Even though I never personally experienced discrimination, being a female in the military, sexual harassment is still a very big issue. The military has tried to take the steps necessary to lessen these issues by having mandatory sexual harassment, sensitivity, and cultural diversity training but these problems still exist. All the training in the world will be of no benefit if military does not take a stand and punish those who do not follow the rules instead of brushing it under the table. Please note that, this is my opinion and does not reflect the opinions of other women in the military.

Gesture-based Interface

Gesture-based Interface 1.1 Definition Gesture recognition is a mix on language technology and computer science which helps in achieving interpretation of human gestures with the use of mathematical algorithms. Any kind of movement made by human body is a gesture and according to current researches, gesture technology is now focusing more on emotion gestures, hand and face gesture. This technology is playing a very important role in many fields such as Smartphones, Tablets and other devices Automobiles Transit sector Electronics sector Gaming sector Gesture based interface technology have turned out to be one of the basic innovations that can decide the future of video games /computer games. In current time, video games offer interaction with players without the need of using remote controls and allows players to perform actions and exchanges with game characters and game objects displayed in the virtual world in front of their screen. But for these advancements to achieve, new algorithm and calculations have been incorporated which makes use of sensors, cameras, accelerometer sensors and visual pattern recognition devices. Trend shows that games that adapts true life experience interface have a very good chance of making a good successful name in the gaming industry. So, almost every big game producing companies are spending resources in their gaming development team and looking for more advanced technology to implement so that they can beat their competitors and can provide entertaining and more exciting experiences to their c onsumers (Rocetti, Marfia, Semeraro, 2012) Gaming industry is a multi-billion industry, so many new technological ideas and trends are emerging in this field. Video games designer of big gaming companies are gradually moving their consideration of playing games at homes, expanding their interests to games which can be played in open areas such as museums and gaming exhibitions. However, till date, only a few number of researches have been done to consider the number of problems which occurs when making a video game. This paper will help us in understanding the concept of gesture interface and how its implemented with games and other multimedia devices. Many research has been done on how to better the experience by favoring big screens for a better and more immersive experience. While touchscreen devices have significantly enriched our experience with tablets PCs for example iPad, tablets etc., technology used in large displays being used in group meetings, presentations or lectures still remain unchanged. we all know that its quite difficult to apply touchscreen technology to such huge displays. In this research paper, the author displayed a new game design Laser shoot for FPS games. Earlier, users used to play shooter games on computer using a keyboard and a mouse or a joystick controller. Currently, we use CRT display technology for real like gun interface because CRT technology can detect beam direction and able to detect shooting position. However, CRT technology does not support big screen displays because of its manufacturing limitations. In order to encourage a community oriented and experience for gaming users, the author designed a new input interface technology which includes a laser gun and a large screen which has laser enabled spot detection capability. This interface successfully creates a real like environment for gamers and according to the results, the laser-based interface makes a characteristic UI conditions which helps learners to appreciate playing a FPS quickly, and furthermore gives experienced players another gaming knowledge. Current research development The author has developed a laser shoot technology that recognizes laser movements displayed on a smart display using a computer. With this technology, users can use ordinary laser points in a way that they experience laser pointers as extended fingers on a display. So, therefore, with the use of this technology, users can now draw pictures, diagrams, bar graphs and anything using their normal pointers on large display from a normal distance with users at the same or different locations. example: during meetings, presentations etc.) This laser shoot technology has been a ground-breaking revolution when it comes to online learning and helps interacting learners, teachers, trainers from all over the globe to connect and share knowledge. It also helps people with different expertise and skills to engage is different kind of learning activities. The idea of this technology not only helps people interacting but can also be used in terms of gaming aspect and specially first person shooter games FPS so the researcher applied this technology with FPS gaming environments. The gaming interface between the player and the virtual world was improved by using a new control using laser shoot technology laser guns and a display to recognize the laser shoot signal. Their system created a reality based gaming world for players and according to the results, it allowed players to experience a better gaming experience (Shim Kim, 2016) Related works and comparing different technologies First person shooter FPS is a genre of video games where the game is rendered in the virtual world from the players point of view involves aiming guns and other weapons. FPS features elements like running and shooting. As you can see from the picture (1), modern shooter games are played on a computer machine using a keyboard and mouse and using the layout (WASD) and arrow keys to control the game. Mouse controls the free look of the game and keyboard adds to other actions like running, shooting and other variations. We can also experience shooter games using CRT display as can be seen in the picture below. A real gun interface is used with CRT monitors for aiming and CRT monitors because of their good picture render capabilities, As can be seen from the picture below, PlayStation also uses a different kind of technology which makes uses of sensors called PlayStation move which communicates with their detectable motion controller to allow users to aim and shoot and also includes some buttons which helps in walking, running, strafing etc. For this technology to work, PlayStation uses a camera which detects light signals from the controllers sensors and interprets the action on the screen. Another example of gesture based interface is pistol mouse as shown in the picture below which makes use of hand gestures to allow shooting and recognizes movements of player using webcam images Another device called chairlO was developed by Hamburg university which is similar to a joystick but make use of users body motion and is based on a stool. In this device, they created a gun which had a motion detecting product called inertiacube2 and used virtual reality Laser shoot technology has an interface which makes use of a gun with laser shooting and a display which can recognize laser. Laser shoot includes a laser gun, an active screen and last a laser beam recognizable signal processing module. The above picture shows the overall process of designing laser shoot technology In this research, the author covered many related issues going from hardware to programming design that help fabricating and new devices for a FPS game and develop a new gaming interface design for FPS gamers. In order for this research to be possible, a large screen was very important but as we know, previous technology and user interface does not support real like interface and a large display. Shooter games on PC supports large display but the use of WASD layout on keyboard is traditional and old now. Even playing FPS games on CRT makes use of a realistic gesture based gun but due to CRTs manufacturing limitation, it cannot support large screen display. So, in order to encourage an environment among users/players, they designed a new gesture based interface called laser shoot technology which makes use of a large laser recognized display and a laser gun. Their research work contributed to gaming world by using laser inputs, which can help the world in developing more immersive gam ing experience for human computer interaction. Future research works incorporate higher acknowledgment rate for three letters including 0, v and y, which are quite difficult for humans to implement. Laser Shoot makes a characteristic UI conditions which helps novices to appreciate playing a FPS quickly, and furthermore gives experienced players another gaming background. References Hyun, K., Chang, L. W., Keechul, J. (2004). Recognition-based gesture spotting in video games. Pattern Recognition Letters, 25(15), 1701-1714. Rocetti, M., Marfia, G., Semeraro, A. (2012, April). Playing into the wild: A gesture-based interface for gaming in public spaces. Journal of Visual Communication and Image Representation, 23(3), 426-440. Talbot, T. B. (2016). Making Lifelike Medical Games in the Age of Virtual Reality: An Update on Playing Games. Transforming Gaming and Computer Simulation Technologies across Industries, 103. Aker, Ç., RÄ ±zvanoÄÅ ¸lu, K., Ä °nal, Y., YÄ ±lmaz, A. S. (2016, July). Analyzing Playability in Multi-platform Games: A Case Study of the Fruit Ninja Game. In International Conference of Design, User Experience, and Usability (pp. 229-239). Springer International Publishing. Balachandra, N. (2016). Gesture recognition using proximity sensors with Mojo (Doctoral dissertation, San Diego State University). Foottit, J., Brown, D., Marks, S., Connor, A. M. (2016). A wearable haptic game controller. arXiv preprint arXiv:1604.05479. Renzi, M., Vassos, S., Catarci, T., Kimani, S. (2015, January). Touching notes: a gesture-based game for teaching music to children. In Proceedings of the Ninth International Conference on Tangible, Embedded, and Embodied Interaction (pp. 603-606). ACM. Simor, F. W., Brum, M. R., Schmidt, J. D. E., Rieder, R., De Marchi, A. C. B. (2016). Usability Evaluation Methods for Gesture-Based Games: A Systematic Review. JMIR serious games, 4(2). Beckhaus S, Blom KJ, Haringer M (2005) A new gaming device and interaction method for a first-personshooter,in computer science and magic 2005. GC Developer Science Track, Laipzig Dardas NH, Silva JM, El Saddik A (2012) Target-shooting exergame with a hand gesture control. MultimedTools Appl 70:2211-2233. doi:10.1007/s11042-012-1236-4 Shim, J. Y., Kim, S. W. (2016). LaserShoot: a natural shooting interface for FPS gaming using laser recognizable display. Multimedia Tools and Applications, 75(6), 3409-3423. Olivas, A., Molina, J. P., Martà ­nez, J., Gonzà ¡lez, P., Jimà ©nez, A. S., Martà ­nez, D. (2012, October). Proposal and evaluation of models with and without position for immersive FPS games. In Proceedings of the 13th International Conference on Interaccià ³n Persona-Ordenador (p. 52). ACM. Opara, F. K., Aririguzo, M. I., Agbaraji, E. C. (2012). Comparative Analysis And Performance Features Of Plasma, Lcd And Crt Screens: Operating Features, Merit And Recommendations. Academic Research International, 2(2), 140. Di Natale, M., Zeng, H., Giusto, P., Ghosal, A. (2012). Understanding and using the controller area network communication protocol: theory and practice. Springer Science Business Media.

The Use of Cell Phones While Driving is Dangerous Essay -- cell phone,

Although cell phones have not been around for a very long time, they have become a key part of our lives. People use their cell phones for just about everything such as: texting, talking, schedule planning, internet surfing, etc. Sometimes we can even do two or more of these things at the same time. Unfortunately, people are also choosing the wrong time to be using their cell phones: while they are driving. As a society, we have become so focused on how much we can do at one time that we are willing to risk our personal safety as well as the safety of others because we can’t put down our cell phones. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is dangerous to the driver themselves for a couple of good reasons. One such reason is that maneuvering your vehicle while using a cell phone is made even more difficult because one hand is busy fiddling with the phone instead of resting on the wheel. From personal experience, it is harder than most people think to drive or perform driving maneuvers with one hand. Parallel parking is very difficult for most people, even with both hands; doing it one handed would be made impossible because parallel parking requires incredibly subtle movements with the steering wheel. On the main roads, vehicles will often pass you and either slow down or speed up while in front of you which indicates some sort of distraction that hampers their ability to maintain a constant speed. Another reason is that by allowing their focus to waiver during handheld cell phone use, drivers forfeit their ability to react quickly to difficult and/or dangerous situation s. Such a situation might be missing an important turn or exit which may require a lot of backtracking depending on whether the driver is in the cit... ...around the driver if they cannot concentrate on driving. I believe that handheld cell phones should be made illegal because of the unnecessary dangers they create. While I cannot tell you what you should and should not do, I do hope that based on this paper that you are able to use your better judgment and act responsibly. Hang up and drive because using a cell phone while driving is not worth the risk of taking your own life or someone else’s. Works Cited Clark, Scott. â€Å"A Close Call – But Don’t Ban Cell Phones In Cars.† Buzzmaven. Buzzmaven Labs, 17 Apr. 2007. Web. 10 June 2010. . â€Å"Distracted Driving: What You Don’t See.† Oprah. Harpo Productions, 15 Jan. 2010. Web. 10 June 2010. .

Special People in Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep :: Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep Essays

Special People in Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep â€Å"The old man said, â€Å"You will be required to do wrong no matter where you go. It is the basic condition of life, to be required to violate your own identity† (156). This statement made me recall several essays that I read by William Butler Yeats. The central idea in Yeats essays was that we are all raised in a myth. We are all taught to exist as metaphors, as symbols of something supposedly greater than ourselves, and, as Dick says, â€Å"violate your own identity†. My response to this supposition is to wonder how are we to find that identity when we have been taught to be something other than that individual identity? And what happens to those who refuse to be ‘symbols’? If we are, as Yeats postulates, merely symbols of something greater then how are we to uncover first what that symbol represents, and second, how that symbol represents our true self? It seems to me that as people become symbols they become abstract, something ideal rather than real. Thus, we are all living an illusory existence, an existence created by others. Dick says further, â€Å"At some time, every creature which lives must do so. It is the ultimate shadow, the defeat of creation; this is the curse at work, the curse that feeds on all life. Everywhere in the universe† (156). I agree with Dick’s assertion that every person who lives is handed a metaphor but I also believe that the majority of those persons do not even recognize or acknowledge that they are living as a metaphor. It seems to me that the key to self-discovery is to recognize and acknowledge that you are living a lie that was encoded into your psyche before and after your birth. How does one continue to live as a mere symbol after acknowledging such a thing? Of course, millions do just that. But there are those people in the world that refuse to be metaphors, refuse to be symbols. It is in these people that we receive the wellspring of truth, whether we want it or not. Which brings us to Dick’s next statement that, â€Å"Once pegged as special, a citizen, even if accepting sterilization, dropped out of history. He ceased, in effect, to be part of mankind.† (13). Now in Dick’s interpretation of ‘special’, he is referring to those that society deems less than perfect – those that do not meet the specifications of the metaphor.

Macbeth and its Unbelievable Lady :: Macbeth essays

Macbeth and its Unbelievable Lady      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In William Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth which character is more imaginatively created than that of Lady Macbeth? Can a lady actually think in this manner without being called insane. We examine the various dimensions of her character in this paper.    In Fools of Time: Studies in Shakespearean Tragedy, Northrop Frye shows that Lady Macbeth is the driving force behind her husband, who resolves to "get with it" in the future:    That Macbeth is being hurried into a premature act by his wife is a point unlikely to escape the most listless member of the audience, but Macbeth comes to regret the instant of fatal delay in murdering Macduff, and draws the moral that    The flighty purpose never is o'ertook Unless the deed go with it. From this moment The very firstlings of my heart shall be The firstlings of my hand.    That is, in future he will try to attain the successful ruler's spontaneous rhythm of action. (91)    In his book, On the Design of Shakespearean Tragedy, H. S. Wilson describes the role of Lady Macbeth:    It requires an extraordinary exertion of will and persuasion from Lady Macbeth to strengthen his wavering purpose. Professor Kittredge used to point out to his classes that Lady Macbeth, in urging Macbeth to act, uses the three arguments that every wife, some time or other, uses to every husband: "You promised me you'd do it!" "You'd do it if you loved me!" "If I were a man, I'd do it myself!" But Macbeth's mind is made up by her assurance that they may do it safely by fixing the guilt upon Duncan's chamberlains. (72)    In "Macbeth as the Imitation of an Action" Francis Fergusson specifies the fears within Lady Macbeth:      I do not need to remind you of the great scenes preceding the murder, in which Macbeth and his Lady pull themselves together for their desperate effort. If you think over these scenes, you will notice that the Macbeths understand the action which begins here as a competition and a stunt, against reason and against nature. Lady Macbeth fears her husband's human nature, as well as her own female nature, and therefore she fears the light of reason and the common dayllight world. As for Macbeth, he knows from the first that he is engaged in an irrational stunt: "I have no spur / To prick the sides of my intent, but only / Vaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itself / And falls on the other.

Psychopathy Case Study Essay

Psychopathy is a personality disorder it’s also known as sociopathic personality or psychopathic personality or antisocial personality disorder. Psychopaths can’t be understood in terms of antisocial rearing or development. Sadly they are seen as â€Å"Monsters† in our society. They are unstoppable and untreatable predators whose violence is planned, purposeful and even emotionless. The violence continues until it reaches a plateau at age 50 or so then it tapers off. It’s evident when a person has an enduring way of thinking, acting and feeling that is significantly different. It’s a longstanding illness, and inflexible. They act in such a way that’s classed as not socially excepted. There are ten types of personality disorders. Paranoid, Borderline, Schizoid, Schizotypal, Histrionic, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Obsessive, Dependant, Anti Social. Those who struggle with a personality disorder have a great difficulty dealing with others. They tend to be inflexible, rigid and unable to respond to the changes and demands of life. Although they feel that their behaviour patterns are normal or right, people with personality disorders tend to have a narrow view of the world and find it difficult to participate in social activities. Personality disorders are grouped into three major groups: Group A: includes paranoid, Schizoid, Schizotypal disorders identifies odd or eccentric personality disorders. Paranoid personality disorder (PPD) is characterized by persistent feelings of distrust and suspicion against others. Schizoid personality disorder (SPD) is defined by detachment and lack of interest in relationships with others. An individual with SPD may prefer solitary activities and emotionally detached from others. They can also believe in magical or unconventional beliefs, as in someone with Schizotypal disorder may believe he or she has magical powers. Group B: the second group of personality disorders contains emotional disorders. Anti-social personality disorder (APD) is characterized by an apparent disregard for the safety and feelings of others. People with APD may engage in criminal or reckless behaviour. Borderline personality (BPD) is indicated by an unstable sense of self impulsivity and tendency towards strict Black and White thinking. BPD’s have histo ry of unstable relationships and engage in self destructive behaviour. As in self mutilation, reckless, spending obsessions, or binge eating. Histrionic personality is characterized by extreme theatricality and a constant need to be centre of attention. Narcissistic disorder is indicated by an inflated sense of self-importance and entitlement. Group C: the last group are classed as fearful or anxious like a person with avoidant personality disorder thee people may be afraid of criticism or rejection, and withdraws from social situations. The second of the fearful and anxious personality disorders is also known as dependant personality disorder (DPD) unlike avoidant personality disordered patients. A person with DPD is intensely dependant on other people. Obsessive compulsive personality disorder is characterized by pre occupation with lists and orderliness often to the point it interferes with interpersonal relationships. It has been said that psychopaths with lower intelligence or poor education are more likely to end up in our prison systems than Psyc hopaths with a higher level of education. Treatment for this disorder is very limited; patients with a Psychopathic disorder could take place in a variety of in-patient settings such as special hospitals, regional secure units, and intensive Psychiatric care units. Treatment in prison’s governor responsible therapy for those with mental a illness. There are medications that could be used for patients with personality disorders such as your common forms of anti depressants, Lithium, Benzodiazepines, Psychostimulants and Anti convulsants, Neuroleptics. All or some may affect patients in many different ways. These are known as your Pharmacological treatments. There are other forms of treatments such as physical treatments, behaviour therapy, cognitive approaches, Individual and group psychotherapy, therapeutic community approaches, are also available.

Differentiate Mencius and Confucius Class in Human Nature Essay

Confucius’ view on human nature was not clearly and distinctly supplied in the Analects. It is no surprise that one of his disciples complained that â€Å"one cannot get to hear his view on human nature† (A, 5:13).1 In two passages of the Analects, Confucius classified men as belonging to three groups: â€Å"upper, middle and lower,† but as this classification was made according to man’s â€Å"learning ability† it had nothing to do with the common nature of man.2 Another two passages expressed more directly Confucius’ opinion in this respect. THE THEORY OF CONFUCIUS ON HUMAN NATURE Confucius’ view on human nature was not clearly and distinctly supplied in the Analects. It is no surprise that one of his disciples complained that â€Å"one cannot get to hear his view on human nature† (A, 5:13).1 In two passages of the Analects, Confucius classified men as belonging to three groups: â€Å"upper, middle and lower,† but as this classification was made according to man’s â€Å"learning ability† it had nothing to do with the common nature of man.2 Another two passages expressed more directly Confucius’ opinion in this respect. On the basis of Confucius’ teachings, Mencius and Hsà ¼n-tzu developed philosophies which sometimes were considered mutually complementary. As regards the theory of human nature, however, Mencius and Hsà ¼n-tzu obviously held incompatible views. The following discussion will try to show that Mencius’ theory of â€Å"human nature as good† is in fact a theory of â€Å"human heart as good,† and Hsà ¼n-tzu’s theory of â€Å"human nature as evil† is actually a theory of â€Å"human desire as evil.† These two theories are not necessarily contradictory, since they share the same underlying idea that human nature tends toward goodness. To clarify this point, we will lay more stress on the works of Mencius and the Chung-yung which directly elaborated on this idea than on those of Hsà ¼n-tzu and the I-chuan which accepted this idea in an implicit way. Mencius Etymologically, human â€Å"nature† (hsing) comes from â€Å"birth† or â€Å"to be born with† (sheng). The common understanding of this word in ancient China can be formulated as follows: â€Å"The inborn is what is meant by nature† (M, VI, A, 3).5 However, this consideration of the origin of nature exhibits only what a thing has rather than what a thing is: it expresses at most the sameness rather than the difference of all things. In order to determine what a thing is, it is necessary to know its essence: the genus plus the difference of species. This rule, made familiar by Aristotle, was true also for Mencius. First, Mencius was quite aware that in dealing with anything of the same kind, we must determine what this â€Å"same kind† means, and this is even more true when applied to man. Mencius said, â€Å"Now, things of the same kind are all alike. Why should we have doubts when it comes to man? The sage and I are of the same kind† (M, VI, A, 7). The wicked, however, also belong to the same kind. Thus, in determining the essence of human beings, we should find the difference of species. Mencius said, Slight is the difference between man and the brutes. The common man loses this distinguishing feature, while the gentleman retains it. Shun understood the way of things and had a keen insight into human relations. He followed the path of benevolence and righteousness. He did not need to pursue benevolence and righteousness (M, IV, B,19). Clearly, the essence or the distinguishing feature of man must be understood through the â€Å"slight difference† between man and the brutes. The statement about Shun is an example that benevolence and righteousness are the interior path of man, following which will have a great effect. The implication of this whole sentence is probably that benevolence and righteousness belong to the â€Å"slight difference.†6 Another paragraph will also help clarify the distinguishing feature of man. â€Å"A gentleman differs from other men in what he retains in his heart–namely, benevolence and propriety† (M, IV, B, 28). Granted that the human essence of man can be described as benevolenc e, righteousness, propriety, etc., how can common people lose it? Can something be defined by a feature which can be lost? The key to the answer lies in the idea of â€Å"heart,† which is to be understood here as neither bodily heart, nor soul, but mind with sensitivity. Concerning human nature, Mencius presents his famous theory of â€Å"the four germs of the heart,† concluding as follows: From this it can be seen that whoever is devoid of the heart of compassion is not human, whoever is devoid of the heart of shame is not human, whoever is devoid of the heart of courtesy and modesty is not human, and whoever is devoid of the heart of right and wrong is not human (M, II, A, 6). These four states of heart are named, in turn, the germs of â€Å"benevolence, righteousness, propriety, and wisdom† (M, II, A, 6) within man’s heart, which forms the difference of human beings. Human nature must be defined through this heart: Mencius said, â€Å"That which a gentleman follows as his nature, that is to say, benevolence, righteousness, propriety, and wisdom, is rooted in his heart† (M, VII, A, 21). Therefore the goodness of human nature resides in the goodness of the heart. A reservation, however, must be added, namely, that goodnes s exists only in the state of germ and needs to be retained, nourished, and developed. In this way Mencius demonstrated that human nature is tending toward goodness. He did not stop at this point, but continued to examine the nature and origin of the heart. Mencius affirmed that there is a propensity for development within the heart which makes it an â€Å"evaluating heart.† If this means an ability to be moral and human beings are moral agents,8 does not its propensity for development imply in some sense a â€Å"commanding heart†?9 It must be the case, then, that the evaluating heart is at the same time the commanding heart, for otherwise how could Mencius honor as gentleman those who â€Å"retain† it? Only with this understanding does it become meaningful to say that â€Å"there is nothing better for the nurturing of the heart than to reduce the number of one’s desires† (M, VII, B, 35). Only if the heart does more than evaluate can Mencius say, â€Å"The sole concern of learning is to go after this strayed heart. That is all† (M, VI, A, 11). On the basis of this double character of the heart, we can loo k further at the heart in itself. Mencius used one word â€Å"thinking† to sum up the function of the heart. He said, â€Å"The organ of the heart can think. But it will find the answer only if it does think: otherwise, it will not find the answer. This is what Heaven has given me† (M, VI, A, 15). By thus explaining the source of the heart, especially its function of commanding, he bridges the gap between Heaven and man. Therefore, instead of stating that Mencius substitutes â€Å"self-legislation† for â€Å"external divine command,† we prefer to say that man’s self-legislation is bestowed on him by Heaven.10 The relation between Heaven and man is another interesting topic in Mencius’ thought, but is beyond the scope of the present essay. What we have established thus far is that the reason why human nature tends toward goodness consists in its relation with Heaven. Better known in China as â€Å"Master Meng† (Chinese: Mengzi), Mencius was a fourth-century BCE Chinese thinker whose importance in the Confucian tradition is second only to that of Confucius himself. In many ways, he played the role of St. Paul to Confucius’ Jesus, interpreting the thought of the master for subsequent ages while simultaneously impressing Confucius’ ideas with his own philosophical stamp. He is most famous for his theory of human nature, according to which all human beings share an innate goodness that either can be cultivated through education and self-discipline or squandered through neglect and negative influences, but never lost altogether. While it is not clear that Mencius’ views prevailed in early Chinese philosophical circles, they eventually won out after gaining the support of influential medieval commentators and thinkers such as Zhu Xi (Chu Hsi, 1130-1200 CE) and Wang Yangming The Mencius of History Like the historical Confucius, the historical Mencius is a vailable only through a text that, in its complete form at least, postdates his traditional lifetime (372-289 BCE). The philological controversy surrounding the date and composition of the text that bears his name is far less intense than that which surrounds the Confucian Analects, however. Most scholars agree that the entire Mencius was assembled by Mencius himself and his immediate disciples, perhaps shortly after his death. The text records several encounters with various rulers during Mencius’ old age, which can be dated between 323 and 314 BCE, making Mencius an active figure no later than the late fourth century BCE. The other major source of information about Mencius’ life is the biography found in the Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian) of Sima Qian (c. 145-90 BCE), which states that he was a native of Zou (Tsou), a small state near Confucius’ home state of Lu in the Shandong peninsula of nort heastern China. He is said to have studied with Confucius’ grandson, Zisi (Tzu-ssu), although most modern scholars doubt this. He also is thought to have become a minister of the state of Qi (Ch’i), which also was famous as the home of the Jixia (Chi-hsia) Academy. The Jixia Academy was a kind of early Chinese â€Å"think tank† sponsored the ruler of Qi that produced, among other thinkers, Mencius’ later opponent Xunzi (Hsun-tzu, 310-220 BCE). Mencius inherits from Confucius a set of terms and a series of problems. In general, one can say that where Confucius saw a unity of inner and outer – in terms of li (ritual propriety), ren (co-humanity), and the junzi (profound person)-xiaoren (small person) distinction – Mencius tends to privilege the inner aspects of concepts, practices, and identities. For Mencius, the locus of philosophical activity and self-cultivation is the xin (hsin), a term that denotes both the chief organ of the circulatory system and the organ of thought, and hence is translated here and in many other sources as â€Å"heart-mind.† Mencius’ views of the divine, political organization, human nature, and the path toward personal development all start and end in the heart-mind. . Theodicy Again, as with Confucius, so too with Mencius. From late Zhou tradition, Mencius inherited a great many religious sensibilities, including theistic ones. For the early Chinese (c. 16th century BCE), the world was controlled by an all-powerful deity, â€Å"The Lord on High† (Shangdi), to whom entreaties were made in the first known Chinese texts, inscriptions found on animal bones offered in divinatory sacrifice. As the Zhou polity emerged and triumphed over the previous Shang tribal rule, Zhou apologists began to regard their deity, Tian (â€Å"Sky† or â€Å"Heaven†) as synonymous with Shangdi, the deity of the deposed Shang kings, and explained the decline of Shang and the rise of Zhou as a consequence of a change in Tianming (â€Å"the mandate of Heaven†). Thus, theistic justifications for conquest and rulership were present very early in Chinese history. By the time of Mencius, the concept of Tian appears to have changed slightly, taking on aspects of à ¢â‚¬Å"fate† and â€Å"nature† as well as â€Å"deity.† For Confucius, Tian provided personal support and sanction for his sense of historical mission, while at the same time prompting Job-like anxiety during moments of ill fortune in which Tian seemed to have abandoned him. Mencius’ faith in Tian as the ultimate source of legitimate moral and political authority is unshakeable. Like Confucius, he says that â€Å"Tian does not speak – it simply reveals through deeds and affairs† (5A5). He ascribes the virtues of ren (co-humanity), yi (rightness), li (ritual propriety), zhi (wisdom), and sheng (sagehood) to Tian (7B24) and explicitly compares the rule of the moral king to the rule of Tian (5A4). The dependence of Tian upon human agents to put its will into practice helps account for the emphasis Mencius places on the satisfaction of the people as an indicator of the ruler’s moral right to power, and on the responsibility of morally-minded ministers to depose an unworthy ruler. In a dialogue with King Xuan of Qi (r. 319-301 BCE), Mencius says: The people are to be valued most, the altars of the grain and the land [traditional symbols of the vitality of the state] next, the ruler least. Hence winning the favor of the common people you become Emperor†¦. (7B14) When the ruler makes a serious mistake they admonish. If after repeated admonishments he still will not listen, they depose him†¦. Do not think it strange, Your Majesty. Your Majesty asked his servant a question, and his servant dares not fail to answer it directly. (5B9) Mencius’ replies to King Xuan are bracingly direct, in fact, but he can be coy. When the king asks whether it is true that various sage kings (Tang and Wu) rebelled against and murdered their predecessors (Jie and Zhou), Mencius answers that it is true. The king then asks: â€Å"Is it permissible for a vassal to murder his lord?† Mencius replied, â€Å"One who robs co-humanity [ren] you call a `robber’; one who robs the right [yi] you call a `wrecker’; and one who robs and wrecks you call an `outlaw.’ I have heard that [Wu] punished the outlaw Zhou – I have not heard that he murdered his lord. (1B8) In other words, Wu was morally justified in executing Zhou, because Zhou had proven himself to be unworthy of the throne through his offenses against ren and yi – the very qualities associated with the Confucian exemplar (junzi) and his actions. This is an example of Mencius engaging in the â€Å"rectification of names† (zhengming), an exercise that Confucius considered to be prior to all other philosophical activity (Analects 13.3). While Mencius endorses a â€Å"right of revolution,† he is no democrat. His ideal ruler is the sage-king, such as the legendary Shun, on whose reign both divine sanction and popular approval conferred legitimacy: When he was put in charge of sacrifices, the hundred gods delighted in them which is Heaven accepting him. When he was put in charge of affairs, the affairs were in order and the people satisfied with him, which is the people accepting him. Heaven gave it [the state] to him; human beings gave it to him. (5A5) Mencius is famous for claiming that human nature (renxing) is good. As with most reductions of philosophical positions to bumper-sticker slogans, this statement oversimplifies Mencius’ position. In the text, Mencius takes a more careful route in order to arrive at this view. Following A. C. Graham, one can see his argument as having three elements: (1) a teleology, (2) a virtue theory, and (3) a moral psychology. Confucius Better known in China as â€Å"Master Kong† (Chinese: Kongzi), Confucius was a fifth-century BCE Chinese thinker whose influence upon East Asian intellectual and social history is immeasurable. As a culturally symbolic figure, he has been alternately idealized, deified, dismissed, vilified, and rehabilitated over the millennia by both Asian and non-Asian thinkers and regimes. Given his extraordinary impact on Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese thought, it is ironic that so little can be known about Confucius. The tradition that bears his name – â€Å"Confucianism† (Chinese: Rujia) – ultimately traces itself to the sayings and biographical fragments recorded in the text known as the Analects (Chinese: Lunyu). As with the person of Confucius himself, scholars disagree about the origins and character of the Analects, but it remains the traditional source for information about Confucius’ life and teaching. Most scholars remain confident that it is possible to extract from the Analects several philosophical themes and views that may be safely attributed to this ancient Chinese sage. These are primarily ethical, rather than analytical-logical or metaphysical in nature, and include Confucius’ claim that Tian (â€Å"Heaven†) is aligned with moral order but dependent upon human agents to actualize its will; his concern for li (ritual propriety) as the instrument through which the family, the state, and the world may be aligned with Tian’s moral order; and his belief in the â€Å"contagious† nature of moral force (de), by which moral rulers diffuse morality to their subjects, moral parents raise moral children, and so forth. The Confucius of the Analects Above all else, the Analects depicts Confucius as someone who â€Å"transmits, but does not innovate† (7.1). What Confucius claimed to transmit was the Dao (Way) of the sages of Zhou antiquity; in the Analects, he is the erudite guardian of tradition who challenges his disciples to emulate the sages of the past and restore the moral integrity of the state. Although readers of the Analects often assume that Confucius’ views are presented as a coherent and consistent system within the text, a careful reading reveals several different sets of philosophical concerns which do not conflict so much as they complement one another. Those familiar with Enlightenment-influenced presentations of Confucius as an austere humanist who did not discuss the supernatural may be surprised to encounter the term â€Å"theodicy† as a framework for understanding Confucius’ philosophical concerns. Confucius’ record of silence on the subject of the divine is attested by the Analects (5.3, 7.21, 11.12). In fact, as a child of the late Zhou world, Confucius inherited a great many religious sensibilities, including theistic ones. For the early Chinese (c. 16th century BCE), the world was controlled by an all-powerful deity, â€Å"The Lord on High† (Shangdi), to whom entreaties were made in the first known Chinese texts, inscriptions found on animal bones offered in divinatory sacrifice. As the Zhou polity emerged and triumphed over the previous Shang tribal rule, Zhou apologists began to regard their deity, Tian (â€Å"Sky† or â€Å"Heaven†) as synonymous with Shangdi, the deity of the deposed Shang kings, and explained the decline of Shang and the rise of Zhou as a consequence of a change in Tianming (â€Å"the mandate of Heaven†). Thus, theistic justifications for conquest and rulership were present very early in Chinese history.By the time of Confucius, the concept of Tian appears to have changed slightly. For one thing, the ritual complex of Zhou diviners, which served to ascertain the will of Tian for the benefit of the king, had collapsed with Zhou rule itself. At the same time, the network of religious obligations to manifold divinities, local spirits, and ancestors does not seem to have ceased with the fall of the Zhou, and Confucius appears to uphold sacrifices to â€Å"gods and ghosts† as consistent with â€Å"transmitting† noble tradition. Yet, in the Analects, a new aspect of Tian emerges. For the Confucius of the Analects, discerning the will of Tian and reconciling it with his own moral compass sometimes proves to be a troubling exercise: If Heaven is about to abandon this culture, those who die afterwards will not get to share in it; if Heaven has not yet abandoned this culture, what can the men of Guang [Confucius’ adversaries in this instance] do to me? (9.5) There is no one who recognizes me†¦. I neither resent Heaven nor blame humanity. In learning about the lower I have understood the higher. The one who recognizes me – wouldn’t that be Heaven? (14.35) Heaven has abandoned me! Heaven has abandoned me! (11.9) As we all know that Mencius several times throughout Chinese history has been regarded as a potentially â€Å"dangerous† author, leading at times to outright banning of his book. This is because Mencius developed a very early form of what was to be called in modern times the â€Å"social contract.† Mencius, like Confucius, believed that rulers were divinely placed in order to guarantee peace and order among the people they rule. Unlike Confucius, Mencius believed that if a ruler failed to bring peace and order about, then the people could be absolved of all loyalty to that ruler and could if they felt strongly enough about the matter, revolt. I surmise if we go into details, it will probably take us months or maybe even years before finishing this comparison. I personally felt that Mencius and Confucius did not share nearly the same feelings for what was the most important unit in a society. I believe Confucius set up the belief of â€Å"Emperor, Master, and Father.â⠂¬  Basically, all subjects were obliged to the orders of the Emperor. All students were required to follow the footsteps of their Masters. In the same way that all children should obey their fathers commands. If at any given time these orders came in conflicts with one another, then everyone must choose to put the Emperor’s demands above everything else. Perhaps, this concept was one of the main reasons why Confucianism was promoted as the state’s ideology during the reign of Han Wudi. On the other hand, Mencius had a totally different view. Mencius insisted that â€Å"People came first Empires/Nations were only second, while the Emperor was the least important.† Well I am sure that not too many people would be happy to hear this argument let alone agree. This concept will definitely tolerate rebellions against a tyrannical ruler. The Emperor was working in the best interests of the people. Without the people’s support, the emperor had certainly failed his du ties as the leader. While Confucius’s theory I think that Confucius was more correct in his views than Mencius, not because of differing views (although they did differ at certain points), but because of the way these ideas were carried out throughout his career, and ultimately, his life. Confucius was a Chinese thinker and philosopher. His philosophy emphasized personal and governmental morality, correctness of social relationships, and justice and sincerity. These values gained prominence in China over other doctrines, such as Taoism during the Han Dynasty. Confucius’ thoughts have been developed into a system of philosophy which has come to be known as Confucianism. It was introduced to Europe by Matteo Ricci, who was the first to come up with the Latin name â€Å"Confucius†. His teachings may be found in the Analects of Confucius, a collection of â€Å"brief aphoristic fragments†, which was compiled many years after his death. For nearly 2,000 years he was thought to be the editor or author of all the Five Classics, such as the Classic of Rites and the Spring and Autumn Annals, but this was not the case as many of these â€Å"fragments† cannot be directly credited to Confucius because of lack of written proof. Confucius was born in 551 BC in the Lu state of China, born into a warrior family. His father, Shulianghe, was a famous warrior who fought in the chinese military, and owned a large portion of land. Confucius lost his father when he was three years old, and then his mother Yan Zhengzai took him and left his father’s land because, as a concubine, she wanted to avoid the scorn from Shulianghe’s real wife. Therefore, Confucius lived in poverty with his mother since childhood. With the support and encouragement of his mother, Confucius studied hard as a child. When Confucius was seventeen, his mother died as a result of illness and exhaustion. Three years later, Confucius married. Though he had a good wife who loved him, he left his family to pursue his philosophical goals. Confucius sought to revive the As we all know that Mencius several times throughout Chinese history has been regarded as a potentially â€Å"dangerous† author, leading at times to outright banning of his book. This is because Mencius developed a very early form of what was to be called in modern times the â€Å"social contract.† Mencius, like Confucius, believed that rulers were divinely placed in order to guarantee peace and order among the people they rule. Unlike Confucius, Mencius believed that if a ruler failed to bring peace and order about, then the people could be absolved of all loyalty to that ruler and could if they felt strongly enough about the matter, revolt. I surmise if we go into details, it will probably take us months or maybe even years before finishing this comparison. I personally felt that Mencius and Confucius did not share nearly the same feelings for what was the most important unit in a society. I believe Confucius set up the belief of â€Å"Emperor, Master, and Father.† Basically, all subjects were obliged to the orders of the Emperor. All students were required to follow the footsteps of their Masters. In the same way that all children should obey their fathers commands. If at any given time these orders came in conflicts with one another, then everyone must choose to put the Emperor’s demands above everything else. Perhaps, this concept was one of the main reasons why Confucianism was promoted as the state’s ideology during the reign of Han Wudi. On the other hand, Mencius had a totally different view. Mencius insisted that â€Å"People came first Empires/Nations were only second, while the Emperor was the least important.† Well I am sure that not too many people would be happy to hear this argument let alone agree. This concept will definitely tolerate rebellions against a tyrannical ruler. The Emperor was working in the best interests of the people. Without the people’s support, the emperor had certainly failed his duties as the leader.

Harvie Krumpet only ever belonged with other outcasts Essay

Argue for or against this statement with reference to how Harvie Krumpet’s life is represented in the film. (you must make specific references to the techniques used by the film maker). Note: you are only allowed to use the word ‘belonging’ once. The need to be socially accepted and connected with others is an intrinsic yearning in humans. This desire to be included within a community or partnership is known as belonging; a fundamental need which molds a person’s identity. Harvie Krumpet’ is a short, animated film written, directed and animated by Adam Elliot and produced by Melanie Coombs. The film demonstrates through its main character, Harvie Krumpet, that companionship and connection can influence one’s outlook as well as ideologies. By utilising numerous techniques (such as editing, metaphors, pathetic fallacy, symbolism, speech and music), the animation illustrates that Harvie Krumpet only ever fit in with other outcasts. The use of metaphoric images and editing proves that Harvie Krumpet was only accepted by misfits while he was young. Due to Harvie’s Tourette syndrome, he was ostracised at school by the other students. He was only able to make friends with Bogush; another outcast. The two rejects are shown together outside with their backs to a wall of the school building. The barrier separating the two friends from the other students is a metaphor for the social divide excluding the misfits, and highlights the strong bond Harvie shares with Bogush. Another technique that proves the main character was rejected from society is editing. While Harvie is at home with his insane mother, the camera cuts away multiple times, each time showing the house further away. These cuts give viewers an idea of how the public view the family, and give the impression that society pushes them away. This use of editing, as well as a metaphor, demonstrates that Harvie is only respected by those who are similarly misfortunate. Even while Harvie Krumpet is middle-aged he remains alienated from society and is only able to fit in with outcasts like himself, as is demonstrated by pathetic fallacy and symbolism. Many things change in Harvie’s life; he is forced to move to Australia and finds a job at the Spotswood Dump. During the scene where Harvie attempts to make a friend at the dump, the sky is overcast and gloomy, which reflects the main character’s dismay when he is rejected. This technique is known as pathetic fallacy and efficiently illustrates Harvie’s isolation from ordinary people. Symbolism supports this idea, as Harvie is commonly seen alone, surrounded by the colour grey. For example, even while the main character is working in a large factory, he is still shown alone in a dark, grey room. This melancholy shade reflects the loneliness he feels. Together with pathetic fallacy, these techniques reveal to the audience that Harvie Krumpet is a victim of stigma and is only able to belong with other misfits. To demonstrate that Harvie Krumpet only feels connected and valued by other outcasts when he is elderly, music and speech are utilised. When Harvie grows old and moves into a retirement home, he meets other people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. He moves into a community that share similarities with Harvie and forms a group of friends who had been rejected by society just like himself. To illustrate that the main character fits in with this community, a bright and cheery tune is played as Harvie puts on a show for the group. The uplifting music is an example of non-diagetic sound and reflects how content the outcasts feel together. Another technique which highlights Harvie’s strong connection to misfits is speech. Throughout the film, the only words Harvie speaks are â€Å"Thank you†. The central character says these to a lady who felt she did not belong even among a crowd of social rejects. These words are immensely significant and reveal just how powerful Harvie’s bond was with this outcast. It is clear that the elderly Harie Krumpet only fits in with other rejects through the use of music and speech. In conclusion, Harvie Krumpet only ever fits in with other outcasts throughout his life. This is supported and reinforced by the techniques of editing, metaphors, pathetic fallacy, symbolism, speech and music.

Free Essays on Drinking

Pro-Monogamy It might seem like someone’s dream to have numerous wives or husbands to care for you and to fulfill all of your physical needs, but is that really the best way to go? I don’t think so, monogamy is. Marriage is an intensely special bond that should be shared between only two people. Jealousy is primary problem in polygamous relationships. â€Å"I have been a little jealous. My husband and I are looking for a second wife. I sometimes feel like I’m being put on the back burner. Jealousy is the monster that sometimes rears its ugly head.† (3coins.com) The husband might give more attention to one of his wives thus making the others jealous. The wives time with their husband is shared with however many other wives he may have. She may only have them for one night a week. Also, the husband probably isn’t going to be equally committed to all of his wives even though he might say he will. There is no way that he could love all of his wives just the same. For the sake of the children, having just one mom and one dad would be the best for them. Granted, if they were born into a polygamous family they would have more adult figures to take care of them, but that is just not normal. When the children go to school, the other students won’t understand how their family works and will probably make fun of them. Just like if a child had gay parents. Children don’t understand these lifestyles and don’t perceive that it would hurt their feelings, children in polygamous families, if they tease them. This kind of situation could really make a child’s life hell; children can be cruel to other children. Another issue in polygamous relationships is disease. By having sex with more partners there is a greater chance of contracting and spreading sexually transmitted diseases. One woman could have an STD, and then sleep with the husband who sleeps with all the other wives, thus spreading the disease to them. The... Free Essays on Drinking Free Essays on Drinking Pro-Monogamy It might seem like someone’s dream to have numerous wives or husbands to care for you and to fulfill all of your physical needs, but is that really the best way to go? I don’t think so, monogamy is. Marriage is an intensely special bond that should be shared between only two people. Jealousy is primary problem in polygamous relationships. â€Å"I have been a little jealous. My husband and I are looking for a second wife. I sometimes feel like I’m being put on the back burner. Jealousy is the monster that sometimes rears its ugly head.† (3coins.com) The husband might give more attention to one of his wives thus making the others jealous. The wives time with their husband is shared with however many other wives he may have. She may only have them for one night a week. Also, the husband probably isn’t going to be equally committed to all of his wives even though he might say he will. There is no way that he could love all of his wives just the same. For the sake of the children, having just one mom and one dad would be the best for them. Granted, if they were born into a polygamous family they would have more adult figures to take care of them, but that is just not normal. When the children go to school, the other students won’t understand how their family works and will probably make fun of them. Just like if a child had gay parents. Children don’t understand these lifestyles and don’t perceive that it would hurt their feelings, children in polygamous families, if they tease them. This kind of situation could really make a child’s life hell; children can be cruel to other children. Another issue in polygamous relationships is disease. By having sex with more partners there is a greater chance of contracting and spreading sexually transmitted diseases. One woman could have an STD, and then sleep with the husband who sleeps with all the other wives, thus spreading the disease to them. The...

Rain forest Depletion essays

Rain forest Depletion essays Rainforest Deforestation: Do We Care Enough? The villagers walk the charred ruins of their village, looking for any personal possessions that can be salvaged after the fire. Looking out from the remains, they see the trucks already winding their way up the newly made dirt road. Soon, the landscape around their village will be irrevocably changed as well. The loggers will strip the forest of all trees, and then move on. They leave the landscape barren, and allow erosion to destroy it utterly. Sadly, this scene is common in many Latin and South American countries containing rainforests. In these regions, the rainforests are being cut down at an alarming rate, with no thought being given to the rights of the indigenous peoples whose way of life is inseparably connected with the rainforest itself. There are several viable solutions to this problem, the governments of these rainforested countries making wiser decisions and create new laws and programs to deal with the problem among these solutions. While the most advantageous solut ion would be for the foreign countries to recognizing that the blame lies as much with them as with those of the locales containing the rainforests Many countries containing rainforests feel the need to become as industrialized as possible in a short period of time. To accomplish this, they commonly build massive dams, flooding thousands of acres of rainforest, as well as displacing the many jobless poor attempting to live off of the land (Weisman 1). These poor, along with others simply needing to get away from overcrowded lands, move onto the indigenous peoples land and clearcut portions of forest and farm these new fields. These poor often come into direct conflict with the indigenous tribes already living there, who oftentimes had no contact with outside civilization prior to their land being invaded and cut away. These conflicts are often violent, even fatal for both sides involved (Weisman 1). The ...

microbio importance Essay Example

microbio importance Essay Example microbio importance Essay microbio importance Essay Why should we study microbiology? Has there been any change in the quality of our life due to knowledge that we have acquired from the study of microbes? In other words what is the importance of microbiology in our life? We will try to find answers to some of these in the discussion below. The discussion on the role of microbes in human welfare may be divided under two headings good and bad. Microbes as we know are capable of both good and bad as for as human life is concerned. We will now list both the harm and benefit by microbes and then let us draw a conclusion as o how microbiology has helped us to control or kill the bad microbes and make maximum use of good microbes.. TOP Harmful effects Many of the microbes may be regarded as mans worst enemies. They cause a wide array of diseases that not only in threatens the existence of plants and animals on which he depends, but his own existence also directly. Viral, bacterial and fungal diseases of human beings have taken a heavy toll of human life, destruction of domesticated animals and total loss of agricultural crops. Before the discovery of microbes and before they were connected to diseases (germ theory of disease), the easons for these diseases were not known and man continued to suffer. But the development of microbiology gave man an insight into the life of microbes. Study of the structure and life history of microbes and their physiology, metabolism genetics etc. will help us to control them so that diseases can be prevented and if it occurs can be cured. TOP Beneficial activities The benefit that man can derive from the activities of microbes are immense. Study of these in microbiology helps us to improve (both in quality and quantity) these activities so that man can be benefited. Medical microbiology, Agricultural icrobiology, Environmental microbiology, Industrial microbiology, biotechnology are all branches of microbiology that tell us as to how in various human endeavours, microbiology is giving a helping hand to improve the quality of life. Biotechnology is one field which has the potential to change the course of life itself. Employed properly, it can bring about vast improvement in human life and his environment. But used improperly Oust as atomic energy is used for making bombs) it can bring about untold misery to human life. Creation of new genetically engineered microbes using the technique of animals and crop plants etc. Some microbes may also help us to check pollution as for example bacteria that can feed on oil spill. As research tools, to enquire into the fundamental processes of life microbes have rendered great service. They can be cultured, life histories can be studied in a short time and the results obtained can be interpreted for higher forms of life (including human beings) also, as the genetic material is same. From the discussion above, it must be abundantly clear that microbiology has become increasingly important to human society. It (microbiology) has emerged as one of the most important branches of life sciences. As microbes practically affect all activities of our life like, food, clothing, shelter, health hygiene etc, so also microbiology has made vast progressive strides in all these fields in little less than a century to improve the quality of our life. Infectious diseases have almost been conquered by new drugs, quality of agricultural crops improved by using techniques of genetic engineering, new varieties of wines, liquors have been produced perhaps to rise the spirit of man all these arc possible only because of microbiology. All these will make us wonder how our life would have been without the Knowledge of microbiology. TOP BACK

Comparing A Christmas Carol with The Christmas Party †English Essay

Comparing A Christmas Carol with The Christmas Party – English Essay Free Online Research Papers Comparing ‘A Christmas Carol’ with ‘The Christmas Party’ English Essay In this essay I will be going to examine the similarities between the novels ‘a Christmas carol’ written by Charles Dickens and also the short story. ‘The Christmas party’ written by George Layton ‘A Christmas carol’ was written in 1849 for the rich and the upper class Victorian people. Dickens had visited a ragged school in field lane. He was horrified by what he had sewed. He had wanted to persuade people to do something about this awful poverty that some people had suffered. He was going to Wright a pamphlet called’ appeal to the people of England on behalf of the poor man’s chilled’ but Dickens felt that people were more likely to take notice of a good story. ‘A Christmas carol’ so he had wrote a novel instead. Although this book is fiction, the background is typical of what had happened at the time that it was written. The book was intended for an audience it nowadays is read for entertainment as many of the issues that Dickens had be fighting for have been resolved. George Layton wrote the Christmas party in 1950 and it was published in 1975. The book was written purely to entertain. The Christmas party was written for a wide variety of readers. Layton wrote the book purely to entertain people. He had intended for children and adults to read it. Younger children so they would understand it and older people that so when they read it also would bring back their child hood. There are many language features in ‘A Christmas Carol’. For example Dickens used many similes,’ I am as light as a feather’. The effect of comparing these two things is to bring life how scrooge feels, in comparison to how he used to feel about Christmas since his generosity. A way in which Layton makes it clear that the party is from a child’s point of view is that Christmas child like that is used language: for example ‘smashing’ ‘blooming fibber’ this are words and phrases that are slang. In contrast, Dickens’s novel is written in Standard English. ‘The Christmas Party’ is written in Yorkshire regional dialect such as â€Å"Did she hackers like she wouldn’t give owt away† This language is reflecting the language of northern England where the story is set. In contrasted ‘A Christmas Carol’ is set in London used a more formal language. There are many social differences between the two stories due to the time difference between their times of being written. However, many of the elements of Christmas are the same. One big similarity is that both stories are about Christmas and that it is being celebrated. In the Christmas Party† the boys go out carol singing. â€Å"Where the posh live† The boys go to the posh peoples homes because they think they are rich and will be more likely to give them more money. In a Christmas carol there are carol singers that had went to his house but scrooge sends them a way. Another language feature dickens uses is repetition. An example of this is â€Å"Wonderful games, wonderful unanimity, wonderful happiness† Dickens use the word wonderful to emphasise the contrast In scrooges character. The change in language reflects the change scrooge’s character. It shows how grate and wonderful everything is simply by repeating the words wonderful. Another example of repetition used for emphasis is â€Å"A squeezing†¦old sinner† This emphases the meatiness of scrooge’s character. The Christmas party has no such language features because it is a children’s story written from a chilled point o view as if written by a child. The Christmas carol is written in third person narrative. Whereas the Christmas party is written in first person narrative. A young boy tells the story so the language is very child like. In comparing the cultural similarities of the story of the Christmas party and the Christmas carols. I can see that the Christmas party is trying to say they go to the rich people’s houses sing to them and try to get money off them. Then the Christmas carol is for the rich people to read and to make them feel sorry for the poor people of that time so they would give them money. Due to their a time lapse between the two stories there is quite a big difference between them however, in both texts are traditional symbols of Christmas carols. There are talking about holly and miss toe for example ‘’The crisp leaves of holly scattered there’’ This is used many traditional symbols of Christmas are used to create a jolly scene. It also there is menshiond a turkey for example ‘’Not the prize little turkey the big one?’’ Research Papers on Comparing ‘A Christmas Carol’ with ‘The Christmas Party’ - English EssayLifes What IfsThe Masque of the Red Death Room meaningsQuebec and CanadaEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows EssayMind Travel19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraStandardized TestingComparison: Letter from Birmingham and CritoHip-Hop is Art

TOBACC essays

TOBACC essays Lesson 1: Problems For The Tobacco User Objective: To learn the dangers of smoking. Tobacco use is a major cause of illness and death. Being in the company of smokers is risky behavior. Today, more and more people are becoming aware of the dangers of tobacco. - At least 30 million Americans have quit smoking. - An estimated 65% of doctors, 61% of dentists, and 55% of pharmacists who once smoked have now quit. - In 1965, 40% of American adults smoked, while in 1990 that figure dropped to 29%. - During the past 25 years almost half of the adults who once smoked have now given the use of tobacco. We as a whole emphasize quitting smoking or never start to smoke but still over 50 million Americans who do smoke. Every day in the US 3,000 teens start smoking - Teenage females are smoking more than ever before. - An estimated 15 percent of 12- to 17-year-olds use cigarettes. - In national samples of high school seniors, 13 percent of males and 12 percent of females describe themselves as daily smokers. - Â ¼ of high school seniors who smoke had their first cigarette by sixth grade, Â ½ by eighth grade. - Over the last 20 years, the age at which teens start to smoke has continued to fall. - According to the CDC, each year an estimated 1 billion packs of cigarettes are sold to people younger than 18-even though it is against the law in many states. - Harmful effects of smoking only occurs after years of smoking - Young people believe that they can drop the habit at any time - not a habit but an addiction With each puff of a cigarette, a smoker comes in contact with more than 4,000 chemicals, and at least 43 of these are known to cause cancer and other ailme ...

Revamp Your Resume 21 Mistakes to Avoid

Revamp Your Resume 21 Mistakes to Avoid 1. Broad, vague examples of work experienceâ€Å"Essentially,† â€Å"Basically,† â€Å"More or less† = I am trying to hide what my real job was and pretend I had a different job. Use numbers, facts, and measurable results to make the case that you were a productive and engaged employee.2. Listing duties instead of accomplishmentsThink about how to frame your sometimes mundane daily to-dos as achievements: â€Å"Successfully coordinated office staff meetings and payroll,† â€Å"Completed annual reorganization of the medical library on schedule and with innovative twist on the Dewey Decimal system†, etc.3. A watered-down, generic objectiveâ€Å"The opportunity of a lifetime† â€Å"The career that touches the hearts of America† â€Å"Great opportunity in office setting† â€Å"Seeking a desk with chair†If you can’t do better than these, skip the objective.4. A one-size-fits-all vibeI know it’s tempting to try to be the ideal candidate for any and every job that crosses your path, but the truth is it’s a) impossible and b) going to result in a super boring resume. Be your poised, professional self on the page- tailor your experience to the specific responsibilities the job seeks. Don’t try to be all things to all people.5. Incorrect contact informationMake sure your address, phone, and professional email (not skateboarderyahoo@hotmail.com, please) are all up to date and spelled correctly. You don’t want to lose a gig because they had to track you down by carrier pigeon.6. Too much creativityWhat so swirly fonts and elaborate stationary and clip art all have in common? They have no business migrating from your scrapbook to your resume. Keep it clean and sharp and polished. A resume  should not look like an art project.7. Typos and grammatical errorsHave an exceptionally literate friend read your resume. Then turn it upside down and read one line at a time with a ruler- it’s the best way to spot typos once your brain has started skimming from over-exposure.8. Emphasis on irrelevant previous positionsWhen I applied for my first editorial positions, I still had my Build-a-Bear Workshop summer on my resume. It came off immediately after I was hired. It was also buried on the second page right above my exemplary skills with Excel and Powerpoint.9. Excessive personal informationAvoid mentioning political affiliations, religious organizations, or any reference to being a â€Å"bright and hopeful spirit.† You never know what will be read as controversial or inappropriate, and you don’t want to find out by pushing someone’s â€Å"autodelete† button.10. â€Å"References available upon request.†Unless you are Captain Obvious applying for an unnecessary superhero job, this one comes with the territory. Presumably somewhere you have worked before there is at least one living soul who can verify your general fitness fo r employment.11. Salary history and/or salary requirementsIt’s like having dessert at a wedding- wait until it’s offered.12. â€Å"Resume† as the titleYour name should be front and center at the top of your resume, with the job you’re applying for as the optional â€Å"title† beneath your name.13. Your present employer’s letterheadI’ve been trying to decide whether this is tacky or just dumb for 10 minutes.14. More than 2 pagesAn important caveat here is if you’ve been asked to prepare a CV (curriculum vitae), which is most common in academic jobs- if they ask for everything, they want everything. Otherwise, curate and edit it down to 2 pages, max.15. Handwritten notes or correctionsOn my very first job application I was so nervous I kept having to white out my answers to routine questions like â€Å"Why do you want to work at the snack bar†. But then I was 12, and on the swim team, so I had an excuse. You are a grown up and it is 2015. You do not.16. Piling your job-related skills and experience at the bottomThis is really the only thing employers care about. They read everything else to be polite. Put it up top!17. Non-specific keywordsâ€Å"Enthusiastic.† â€Å"Focused.† â€Å"Detail-Oriented.† â€Å"Team Player.†Delete, delete, delete, delete.18. Old and outdated experienceAlways update your skills and your work history as soon as the offer letter is dry; if you’re filling in gaps due to illness or family obligations, see if you can capture the experience you gained from volunteer opportunities to cover time when you would ordinarily have been working.19. Pictures of yourselfI recently read about a Portland Trailblazer’s cheerleading audition. They had to turn in headshots. And their measurements. It was grim. Unless you’re heading to a dance callback, ditch the selfies. Don’t describe your physical characteristics or appearance either.20. Honorable mentionsHigh school certificates, participation ribbons, scholarly awards (unless you’re going for a job with some research components), eating contests, beauty pageants†¦ unless somehow you know for 100% sure it’s relevant, leave it off and stick to the transferable skills.21. Reasons why you left a company or positionThe time to finesse â€Å"I flipped my boss’s desk over and kicked the copier down the stairs† is in your second in-person interview, if you get one (mention your â€Å"uncontainable passion† for your job). On your resume, don’t get defensive or feel like you need to explain your start and stop dates.  Resume Mistakes – 21 Things NOT To Include On Your Resume  Read More at www.medreps.com

Darwinian Fundamentalism Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Darwinian Fundamentalism - Term Paper Example However, this was not the crux of the battle that ensued between scientists and the church. Christians have traditionally believed that the origin of life traces back to the creation of Earth along with all the life forms by God, roughly 6000 years ago. Meanwhile, the scientists argue that the origin of life can be dated to millions of years ago, when life began to evolve by the process of natural selection. Besides the age of life-forms on earth, the most important clash between the two groups have been over the fact that according to the theory of evolution, life originated from completely inorganic sources, so to speak, from some complex chemical reaction of sorts, millions of years ago. In the course of this paper, I would like to examine the fundamental principles of both the sides also look into a rather interesting battle that has arisen amongst the scientists themselves. This concerns a Harvard Professor’s criticism certain supporters of the theory of evolution and his attempt to bring religion and science into coexsitance. Creationism ‘Creationism’ can be described in the simplest words as, a Doctrine or Theory holding that matter, the various forms of life and the world were created by god out of nothing, in the manner mentioned in the Genesis.1 The theory also stresses upon the centrality of God as the controller of everything. It describes God as omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient. This is by far one of the few concurring ideas across different faiths which have represented God and his identity in different forms. They all subscribe to the belief that God has power over everything. They view him as the ‘Supreme Power’ who is both the creator and destroyer. According to the King James Bible, the Genesis, God created heaven and earth in the beginning, in a period of six days. Day 1: God said â€Å"let there be light†, and there was light. Day 2: God sad, let the waters under the heaven be gathered together u nto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so. Day 3: And God said, let the earth bring forth grass and the fruit tree yield fruit. Day 4: And God created great every living creature. Day 5: And God said, Go forth and multiply each living creature after his kind: and it was so. Day 6: And God said, Let us make man in our image and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air and every other thing that moved on earth. Creationists also stress on the divine nature of the Genesis and therefore place it on higher merit than Science. Some Creationists have gone to the extent of denouncing all forms of science and blatantly disregard all scientific evidences. The primary reason behind this strong dichotomy is the fact that Science in itself questions the existence of god for want of evidence and proof. Therefore, in most circumstances, there is a logical deduction that science and atheism are on the same page, so to speak. Creationists strongly back faith over the reasons given by science, stating that if it is in the bible then it must be true. This strong belief system has over time ‘evolved’ into a cult of sorts, which has adapted with the changing arguments of the evolutionists. For instance, by 1920, some of the creationists had managed to ban the teaching of Darwinism in schools, which gave rise to the famous ‘

Current events in the economy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Current events in the economy - Essay Example According to the article in the Journal by Froyen, (2009), the other school of economics that deals with monetarist, real business, and classical cycles believe that fiscal policies cannot increase production or employment levels. Fiscal policy is considered as the planning of government expenditure and revenue thus; tax revenue and government expenditure can be determined as a percentage of GDP. In addition, human capital can be determined as the expenditure on human development as a percentage of GDP. Since the governments do not rely on one source of revenue, fluctuations in the level of GDP do not have an impact on employment and production (Froyen, 2009). Monetary, real business and classical cycles’ theories say that fiscal policies cannot increase the level of employment, but rather influenced by other supply side determinants such as deregulation, technology development and infrastructure. If fiscal policies are considered alone they have the potentiality of affecting employment in all production

Contemporary Business Math for Colleges Speech or Presentation

Contemporary Business Math for Colleges - Speech or Presentation Example The percentage increase in a variable is computed by establishing the difference between an initial amount, the base and the final amount. The difference is divided by the initial amount. Then the fraction is converted to a percentage by multiplication of the fraction by 100. % Increase/Decrease = Difference between Two Figures à · Previous Figure   Discounts, interest, commission, and markups and markdowns A discount is a reduction made in the cost of a product in order to promote sales. Discounts also enable customers to save because of less expenditure. The discount is calculated based on the original cost of an item. The commission is the return received by a salesperson after completion of a business transaction. The commission is also computed as a percentage of sales made. Interest is the fee, which is paid by a borrower of assets. The interest acts as a compensation for the owner of an asset. It is the value of borrowed money. Additionally, an interest is also obtained through the deposit of money with financial institutions. Markup is the difference between the retail product cost and the revenue obtained from a product customer. The ratio can be compared to the gross margin in a financial statement analysis scenario. The markup margin represents the extra cost a retailer charges a customer in order to earn the profit. Conversely, the markdowns are the reduction of the initial selling price in order to leverage on sales. According to Southam (2013), a retailer marks down a product because of stock accumulation. Additionally, products are marked down because of the perishability of a product. Traders also markdown products in the course of offering discounts to their customers. Promotions also call for product markdown in order for potential customers to purchase the products. The markup helps in equalizing of marginal profits to marginal costs. Computation of depreciation Depreciation is the reduction of the value of an asset over time. There are many methods used in the calculation of depreciation. The commonly used methods are a Straight-line method, double declining balance and the sum of year digits. The straight-line method of depreciation calculation spreads depreciation equally over the entire period of an asset. However, the salvage value of an asset must be ascertained prior to the computation of depreciation.

Koalin Loess(Glacier&Periglacial landscapes) Essay

Koalin Loess(Glacier&Periglacial landscapes) - Essay Example a terrain: A terrane is a crustal block or fragment that preserves a distinctive geologic history that is different from the surrounding areas and that is usually bounded by faults. Accreted terranes are those that become attached to a continent as a result of tectonic processes. In more elaborate words, it is a large geographical feature, often a mountain range, that geomorphologists believe was once a group of islands that sat on one tectonic plate that was being subducted under a continental plate. When the part of the plate on which the islands rode began to be subducted, the islands jammed up the subduction zone and the plate behind it broke. As a result, the islands became attached to the side of the continent. As this happened again and again, the island arc became an inland mountain range. The Himalayas ,according to the modern theory of plate tectonics, was formed as a result of a continental collision or orogeny along the convergent boundary between the Indo-Australian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. This is referred to as a fold mountain. The collision began in the Upper Cretaceous period about 70 million years ago, when the north-moving Indo-Australian Plate, moving at about 15 cm per year, collided with the Eurasian Plate. About 50 million years ago, this fast moving Indo-Australian plate had completely closed the Tethys Ocean, the existence of which has been determined by sedimentary rocks settled on the ocean floor and the volcanoes that fringed its edges. Since these sediments were light, they crumpled into mountain ranges rather than sinking to the floor. The Indo-Australian plate continues to be driven horizontally below the Tibetan plateau, which forces the plateau to move upwards. The Indo-Australian plate is still moving at 67 mm per year, and over the next 10 million years it will travel about 1,500 km into Asia. About 20 mm per year of the India-Asia convergence is absorbed by thrusting along the Himalaya southern front. This leads to the

Vodafone AirTouch Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Vodafone AirTouch - Essay Example Vodafone currently has equity interests in 27 countries and Partner Networks (networks in which it has no equity stake) in a further 40 countries. It has achieved this status in about three decades with a spate of acquisitions and takeovers. This vertical expansion has never been let up since its formative years and has become its planned positioning strategy in its objective of becoming and possibly remaining number one globally.  Although Vodafone was always on the lookout for expanding its reach and its markets, the opportunity provided to it by the takeover of the US AirTouch was unique. When it took over AirTouch, it automatically acquired AirTouch’s stake in Mannesmann, the largest German telecom operator.  In the corporate world, companies have become marketable commodities. They are seen as commodities in terms of their financial contribution to increasing corporate value on the stock market. Corporates buy one another by way of merger in a friendly mutually agreed environment, or hostile takeovers during corporate wars, to augment their resources, power and market reach. Markets for corporate control create new opportunities for corporate managers to exercise power but they make the relatively little contribution toward improving managerial efficiency. In all cases, the intention is to grow vertically to become global players. It appears that the world is moving towards the eventual division of market share between a few global players in each field of economic activity. Apparently, economies of scale as foreseen and foretold by Adam Smith (1776) have not just come true but are being pursued to the next level. In the Telecom industry to it appears that between five to eight players will eventually control the global markets.  In June 1999 Vodafone bought the number two US wireless operator for 62 billion dollars cash plus stock transaction, the biggest ever deal of its time.