Politics and war in Afghanistan during the novel Kite Runner Essay

Politics and war in Afghanistan during the novel Kite Runner - Essay Example Touted as the first Afghan novel written in English, Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner makes up part of the growing branch of Muslim American immigrant literature (along with Diana Abu-Jaber's Crescent and Laila Halaby's West of the Jordan , both published in 2003). Loosely autobiographical, The Kite Runner begins in the same well-off Kabul neighborhood in which the author grew up with his diplomat father and schoolteacher mother. The action then shifts to California, where the family resettled in the early 1980's after fleeing Afghanistan. Hosseini, a practicing physician, began the novel in March, 2001, and, working in the early morning hours, had it half-completed by September 11, 2001. The terrorist attacks which occurred on that day left him and other Muslim Americans feeling anxious about their safety and also turned his unfinished novel into a hot property. After making a successful preemptive bid, Riverhead Books asked Hosseini to revise the manuscript (rather extensively, it turned out) in just four weeks in late 2002, in order to capitalize on interest in Afghanistan during the United States' military action against the Taliban. The well-publicized novel appeared in the summer of 2003, just after American and world interest had shifted from Afghanistan to Iraq. Employing a simple but effective three-part structure, framed by chapters set in December, 2001, The Kite Runner begins where Arundhati Roy's Booker Prize-winning novel The God of Small Things (1997) ends, with an act of betrayal. Part 1 focuses on the formative years of its narrator-protagonist, especially his relationship with Hassan, who is at once his servant and friend. The two boys are linked in several important ways: Born just a year apart, they live in the same household and have nursed at the same breast (following Amir's mother's death in childbirth and Hassan's mother's having run away). The two are also divided-by physical ability, by temperament, by class, and most deeply by ethnicity, one a member of the majority Pashtuns, the other a despised Hazara. Hassan's devotion to Amir is both a sign of his sweet disposition and, more troubling, the result of an ingrained servant-class mentality. Amir is, if not quite devoted to his playmate then certainly attached (including in a way that Amir could never have imagined, for Hassan turns out to be his half brother). Amir's relatively privileged life, however, coupled with Hassan's self-sacrificing devotion, makes Amir cruel, albeit in petty, even passive ways. Amir's cruelty and weakness of character are thrown into higher relief when a third boy, Assef, arrives on the scene. "On the surface, he was the embodiment of every parent's dream but his eyes betrayed him. Beyond the faade, madness." Beyond Amir's facade there is neither madness nor maliciousness, only anxiety that derives, in large measure, from his not being manly enough to earn the love of his father, Baba, a successful, decidedly secular businessman highly respected for his business savvy, physical prowess, and charitable acts. Amir's character is a typical Afghani character of the contemporary society. His character has been delineated by the writer very carefully and according to the norms and standing customs and conventions of Afghan society of that time. The crisis,

Married to Man. The Omnivore's Dilemma Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Married to Man. The Omnivore's Dilemma - Essay Example Both the new and Native Americans totally depend on corn. In other words, it may be said that corn is married to a man. This explains its existence up to this time in life. Were it not for the continued planting of the same corn season after season by man, it would have experienced extinction. This article looks at how corn and man enable one another to survive and reproduce. Corn is found in husks and requires processing to separate the grains from the husk. This means that the grains are set free and can thus be grown and processed more easily on their own. This is where the human aspect comes in place. Man has come up with machines such as combined harvesters that separate the corn from the cob. Another method of separating the corn from the cob is by the use of the opposable thumb that is a characteristic in man. This therefore, brings out the dependence of the corn on man with opposable thumb. Corn, while still in the cob cannot grow into maturity. It may germinate but due to ov ercrowding, the young plants thin out and eventually die. Thus, for proper reproduction of the corn, there is husk removal, seed separation and planting. If the whole corncob were planted, it would germinate and move out of the husk, they would crowd up and may be die before having their second and third set of leaves. Corn hence, require assistance to grow more than any other domesticated plant. Therefore, corn depends on the humans more than the humans depend on it. For instance, man can decide not to consume any corn by avoiding planting it. At the same time, corn cannot decide on whom to have it planted. The marriage between man and corn can be viewed from the perspective of man having first domesticated the wild plant. This was later followed by selection and breeding of the best variety, were it not for man, it would be wild up to now (Pollan, 2007). Among the highly valued cereals by man is corn that in some countries is called maize. Corn has many uses more than any other ce real. One of the uses is making grits. In Africa and some parts of Asia, the grits from maize are ingested by humans. For instance in central and eastern Africa, the grits are used to make a staple food called ugali. This food is easily made and readily consumed with wide range vegetables. Grits can also be used to make porridge that is highly consumed by young children especially in Africa and some parts of Asia. This food product is believed to provide energy to the children who have higher energy requirements in general. Corn can also be used to make bi fuel. This is presently being done in the US of and is hastily replacing the fuels that are pollutants of the atmosphere. Corn is preferred to refined oil because of its availability and environmentally sound aspects. It is also used to make the brewers grits that are used in the beer industry. This is because it contains starches and sugars that undergo fermentation when provided with the required conditions. The medicine industr y also makes utilize corn in their processed form. Liquids sugar is made from corn. Its use is to make syrups and serves the purpose of sweetening them. The confectionary industry makes use of the corn sugar in sweetening their products. Without such sugar, their products may not be accepted. This may lead to losses especially on the part of the manufacturer. Having looked at the two sides of the issue of marriage to man, I take a stand that, it is the corn that is dependent on

Tesco The Customer Relationship Champion Marketing Essay

Tesco The Customer Relationship Champion Marketing Essay The Tesco story dates back to 1919 when Jack Cohen, an ex-army man, setup a grocery business in Londons East End. In 1924 Cohen purchased a shipment of tea from a company named T E Stockwell. He used the first three letters of this companys name, added the Co from his name and branded the tea Tesco. Reportedly, he was so enamoured of that he named his entire business Tesco. The first store under the Tesco name was opened in 1929 in Burnt Oak, Edgware. The company grew rapidly in the years that followed, and evolved into a general food retailing outfit. By 1930, around 100 stores were operating under the Tesco Label  [1]  . Realising that the self-service mode of running supermarkets prevalent in the USA worked out much cheaper than the traditional mode of and enabled companies to offer their merchandise at lower prices, Cohen decided to adopt the same for Tesco stores. In 1948, the first self-service Tesco was opened in St Albans. Over the next few years, Tesco grew to 400 stores many of which were purchased by Cohen from other smaller shopping store chains in the country. In the early 1960s, the company began selling clothing, household goods and fresh food in addition to groceries. Tesco pioneered the large format stores concept in the UK with the launch of a 16,500 sq. Ft. store in Leicester in 1961  [2]  . A Master in CRM: Every three months, millions of people in the UK receive mailers from the countrys number one retailer, Tesco. Nothing exceptional about the concept all most all leading retailers across the world send out mailers/magazines to their customers. These initiatives promote the stores products, introduce promotional schemes and contain discount coupons. However what sets Tesco apart from such run-of-the-mill initiatives is the fact that Tesco mass-customises these mailers. Every mailer has a unique combination of articles, advertisements related to Tescos offerings, and third party advertisements as well. Tesco ensures that all of its customers receive mailers which contain material suited to their lifestyles. The company has worked out a mechanism for determining the advertisements and promotional coupons that would go in each of the over 150,000 variants of the mailers. This has been made possible by Tescos world-renowned CRM strategy framework. The Clubcard scheme (launched in 1995) laid the foundations of this CRM framework that made Tesco post growth figures in an industry that had been stagnating for a long time. The data collected through Clubcards formed the basis for formulating strategies that offered personalised services in a cost-effective manner  [3]  . CRM The Tesco Way: Tescos efforts towards offering better services to its customers and meeting their needs can be traced back to the days when it positioned itself as a company that offered good quality products at extremely competitive prices. Even its decision to offer premium end merchandise and services in the 1970s was prompted by growing customer demand for the same. In 1994, the company launched the One in Front scheme to reduce the time customers had to spend waiting at check-out counters. Under this scheme, Tesco store personnel ensured that if there was more than one person at any counter, another counter would be opened for the person in the line. In this way none of the customers have to wait at the check-out counters. Of course, it is not possible for Tesco to adhere this policy during peak trading hours. Nevertheless, this effort to improve customer was appreciated by customers  [4]  . The biggest customer service initiative (and the first focused CRM drive) came in the form of the Clubcard which was launched in 1995. This initiative was partly inspired by the growing popularity of such schemes in other parts of the world and partly by Tescos belief that it would be able to serve its customers in a much better (and profitable) manner by using such a scheme. Tesco knew that at any of its stores, the top 100 customers were worth as much as the bottom 4,000 (in terms of sales). While the top five percent customers accounted for twenty percent of sales, the bottom twenty five percent only accounted for only two percent. The company realised that by giving extra attention to top customers (measured by the frequency of purchases and the amount spent), it stood to gain a lot  [5]  . In May 1994, Tesco began testing the Clubcard loyalty scheme at two of its stores for a period of six months. The scheme started off like any other loyalty card scheme. Customers became members by paying a joining fee and providing personal details such as name, address, date of birth, e-mail, family composition, dietary requirements and product preferences. Impressed with the programs results over six months, the company introduced the scheme in all of its stores by February 1995. All the transactions were linked to individual customer profiles and generated over 50 Gigabytes of data every week. The analysis of the data enabled Tesco to accurately pin-point the time when purchases were made, the amount customer spent, and the kinds of products purchased. Based on the amount spent and the frequency of shopping, customers were classified into four broad categories: Premium, Standard, Potential and Uncommitted Further, profiles were created for all customers on the basis of the types o f products they purchased. Customers were categorised along dimensions such as, Value, Convenience, Frozen, Healthy Eating, Fresh and Kids  [6]  . Tesco also identified over 5,000 need segments based on the purchasing habits and behaviour patterns of its customers. Each of these segments could be targeted specifically with tailor-made campaigns and advertisements. Tesco also identified eight primary life stage need segments based on the profiles of its customers. These segments included single adults, pensioners and urban professionals among others. Another classification of customers developed from the insights generated through data mining. Using this information regarding the classification of customers, Tescos marketing department devised customised strategies for each category. Pricing information and product related decisions were taken after considering the preferences of customers. Also, customers received communications that were tailored to their buying patterns. The data collected through the Clubcard scheme allowed Tesco to modify its strategies on various fronts such as pricing, inventory management, shopping analysis, customer acquisition, new product launches, store management, online customer behaviour and media effectiveness. The data generated by Clubcard was used innovatively, e.g. special attention give to expectant mothers in the form of personal shopping assistants, priority parking and various other facilities. Tesco also tied up with airline companies and began offering Frequent Flyer Miles to customers in return for the points on their Clubcards. Reaping the benefits: The data collected through Clubcard allowed Tesco to target individual customers (the rifle shot approach), instead of targeting them as a group (the carpet bombing approach). As the customers receive the coupons which matches their buying patterns, over twenty percent of Tescos coupons were redeemed as against the industry average of 0.5 percent. Customers falling in different categories receive mailers which are specifically for them. The mass customisation of these mailers also attracted third-party advertisers, since it assured them that their products/services would be noticed by those very customers they plan to target. Naturally, Tesco recovered a large part of its investment in this exercise through revenues generated by third-party advertisements  [7]  . When Tesco discovered that around 25 percent of its customers, who belonged to the high income bracket were defecting to rival Marks Spencer, it developed a totally new product range, Tesco Finest to lure back those customers. This range was then promoted to affluent customers through personalised promotions. As planned, the deflection of customers from this segment slowed down considerably. From Customer Service To Customer Delight: To sustain the growth achieved through the launch of Clubcard, Tesco decided to adopt a four pronged approach: launch better, bigger stores on a frequent basis; offer competitive prices (e.g. offering everyday low prices in the staples business); increase the number of products offered in the Value range; and the focus on the remote shopping services (this includes the online shopping venture). To make sure that its prices were the lowest among all retailers, Tesco employed a dedicated team of employees, called price checkers. This team checked and compared Tescos prices with those of other companies on a weekly basis. The company even helped its customers to compare prices by providing the information on Tesco.com  [8]  . Recommendations: Even though Tescos CRM efforts have resulted in superior financial performance and market share, the company has to look at its customer service standards. Tesco have spent so much time improving the way their stores look, the range of products they sell and their service processes that they may have temporarily overlooked the impact that their people can make on customers through their behaviour, they need to re-address this issue. Tesco should launch initiatives like Every Customer offered Help (ECOH). As part of ECOH, all employees should be given clear instructions about the way in which they are expected to deal with customers. Employees at the check-out counters, for instance, should be asked to be very particular about greeting the customers, offering the help to the customer and finally, wishing customers a good day. Store managers should be empowered for making the ECOH initiative successful, and they should participate whole-heartedly in the scheme. Tesco should also realise that Clubcard initiatives was just one part of the overall thrust on CRM and customer enhancement is needed to survive and excel in the intensely competitive British retail industry. Tesco therefore have to take host of initiatives in its stores to further the thrust given to customer service. Tesco should also introduce new scheduling system for the store employees to increase customer satisfaction levels. Tesco should also make it mandatory for all employees (including top level executives) to spend some time every year in the stores to help them to get acquainted with the nuances of customer service. This program will help Tesco employees to ingrain customer service as a company philosophy in all employees and it will also result in the development of many innovative ideas. Unlike Asdas customer service program, Tescos program should not require employees to get too personal with customers, as Asda have posted employees at the entrance doors to greet customers. To ensure that its CRM efforts are backed by a strong operational framework, Tesco should pay special attention to controlling costs and streamlining its supply chain. In association with its suppliers, Tesco should try to remove all non-value adding costs. Tesco should also collaborate with its suppliers to develop a Lean Thinking approach, which should focus on smart and efficient working.

Oceans :: essays research papers

Oceans   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The ocean covers Seventy-one percent of our planets surface. Life is concentrated, however, in about four percent of it, and it is this four percent that is being polluted by the tons every day. Everyone needs to understand that the oceans are not endless, and not bottomless. They also much see that the ocean contains much marine life which are essential to our eco-system. And in order to preserve this other world of life, we must stop polluting the oceans, and begin to clean them up. Although using the ocean for a toxic waste dump may provide for a cheap alternative, we must not succumb to these barbaric urges. If we neglect to deal with these ideals, than the world as we know it may not be as great a world for our children as it was for us.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  First, we need to understand that the oceans are not the vast resources that we believe them to be, but just vulnerable natural resources. Before Columbus' day, the ocean were thought to be boundless. Although Columbus proved this theory incorrect, the thought still remains in today's societies. â€Å"For we of the 20th century still treat the ocean as the endless, bottomless pit it was considered to be in medieval times.†(Heyerdahl) The majority of the world's population still lives under the misconception that the ocean is a hungry abyss, eager to devour all their waste. These beliefs, however, are all untrue. The average depth of the oceans is only a little more than a mile, when in fact, some lakes exceed this depth rather handily. Although the size of the ocean is often pondered, the thought that it may one day be gone, is never even considered.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The vast majority of all life in the ocean, inhabits only 1/25 of these waters, but it is these surroundings that are in the most danger. In the beginning of the world, marine plankton was vital to the evolution of man. Today, it is even more important to us, being that it provides us with a great percentage of oxygen we receive. â€Å"These minute plant species manufactured so much oxygen that it rose above the surface to help form the atmosphere we have today.†(Heyerdahl) With the disappearance of the plankton through increased pollution, the obvious result will be a total deprivation of our oxygen supply, in turn limiting all people to certain limits. And with urban expansion leading to deforestation, our dependence upon marine life becomes heightened. The importance of marine plankton cannot be emphasized enough, yet most people fail to recognize it as the vital life supply it is.

Assignment Work Within A Legal And Efficical Time Frame Essay

1. Why is it important for a worker in the Community Services Industry to follow their job description? Because we have a duty of care to our clients and following our job description is the way we can give our clients the best way to provide a profession standard of service. And keeping in line with the polices kept in place by the organisation. 2. Define the term policy. A policy are rules set out that need to be followed. 3. Define the term procedure. A procedure is a step by step way of how a organisation achieves its desire goal. Why do Community Services Industry workers need to work within agency policy and procedures? Provide three (3) reasons. Ensure they do they do their job properly So No unnecessary harm is caused to the client To provide a proper duty of care to the client 4. Give five examples of areas that should be covered in a policy/procedure manual. Occupational health and safety Duty of care Communication Mandatory Reporting (child abuse) Case management procedure 5. Define the term legislation. Legislation are laws which have been enforced by the state or federal government. 6. Define the term statutory requirements? An act that requires you to do something or not do something is a statutory requirement. 7. Define the term regulatory requirements? Regulatory requirements are rules that tell you how a service should be run. 8. List three pieces of legislation impacting on the Community Services Industry and state the purpose of each. Legislation has the word ‘Act’ in the title. 9. When gathering personal information from a client, what do you need to tell them? Task B Case Study Read the following case study: You are a family and community worker employed by a community-based organisation that is located in a public housing estate. You have been working with the following family for a number of months. Julie has four children, aged 2-10 years old, and lives in a public housing estate in ‘Springvale’. You became involved with Julie’s family when she moved to the estate, having left Bill, the father of her children, due to experiencing domestic violence. Julie was granted public housing due to her single parent status, and she is receiving Parenting Payment (Single) from Centrelink. She was referred to your service, regarding her issues of isolation and parenting difficulties with her elder children. The focus of your intervention has been supporting Julie in her parenting role, linking her with community resources and developing budgeting skills. Julie has never been notified to the state child protection services for suspected abuse of her children. During recent visits, you are becoming increasingly concerned about Julie’s lifestyle. Arriving at Julie’s place in the morning, the flat  is very chaotic, the older kids are always rushing off late to school, and the flat is very messy, with unwashed dishes and scraps of food lying around. The younger children seem to always be watching TV and there is evidence of heavy drinking the night before. On your last visit, Julie informed you that Bill was moving in with her and the kids. Despite Bill’s heavy drinking, Julie is very lonely and not coping with the kids well on her own. She plans to keep this a secret from Centrelink and the state public housing department, as she may no longer be eligible for her financial benefits or subsidised housing. While you acknowledge Julie’s feelings of isolation, you are very concerned for the children’s safety if Bill returns to the family home. You decide that you need to discuss some of these recent developments with Julie. You are aware that Bill is very ‘anti-community workers’ and may react very negatively if he is there when you turn up. He has a history of bullying and threatening behaviour with community agencies that have assisted the family in the past. Answer the following questions based on the case study: 1. How would you find out what your roles and responsibilities are as a family worker? 2. In this case study what would be your roles and responsibilities as the worker? 3. Consult the attached Job Description. From the job description state three (3) key responsibilities and discuss how you could apply each of the responsibilities to this family. 4. As the worker, identify and discuss two (2) ethical dilemmas in this case study. You need to state the ethical dilemmas from the learning material and discuss why it could be a dilemma for you as a worker. 5. What principles of ethical decision making would you need to be aware of when dealing with the ethical dilemmas you identified, and why? 6. Identify the factors that contribute to risk of harm of the children in this case study. 7. Identify and discuss your duty of care in relation to each family member? 8. If you were unsure about how to proceed in working with this family, what would you do next? Read the next part of the case study and answer the following questions: In the course of your work with Julie and her family, Julie expresses dissatisfaction about your work with her family. She is adamant that you have a vendetta against Bill, and that you have breached her confidentiality by discussing her situation with other services (such as Centrelink) and is accusing you of acting unprofessionally. 9. Identify Julie’s rights in this situation. 10. Identify the legislation that supports client complaints in this industry. Legislation has the word â€Å"Act† in the title. 11. Discuss how you would deal with Julie’s complaint. Task C Answer the following questions: 1. From the learning material, identify a model for working through issues and dealing with ethical dilemmas. 2. From the learning material, identify the significant ethical guidelines in the Community Services Industry. 3. From the learning material, identify ways that we can ensure client rights are upheld. 4. From the learning material, identify the basic organisational procedures that you will need to follow when managing a complaint. 5. At what point would you consider using an advocate or an advocacy service? 6. Define these terms: Abuse Neglect Risk Job Description Position:Family Support Worker Location:Springvale Community Services (SCS) Classification:Community Services Worker Grade 3 Social and Community Services Employees (State) Award Hours of Duty: Full time position – 38 hrs/week Position Objectives To support community, families and individuals as an advocate, point of referral and/or resource. Within Organisation Compliance with Springvale Community Service’s Code of Conduct, Goals and Objectives, Mission Statement and Policies and Procedures Compliance with all relevant Legislation, Regulations and Awards Compliance with relevant government funding requirements Compliance with individual scope of practice Maintain privacy and confidentiality of information within SCS Promote a positive image of SCS Maintain a commitment to SCS’s Corporate Plan Liaise with community service providers to plan and engage direct service provision Maintain effective communication and interpersonal skills Efficient and effective utilisation of resources as allocated under the level of responsibility for the position Key Responsibilities Provide direct services to families and individuals that encompass, in consultation with the client(s), identification of issues/needs and implementation of a mutually agreed plan of referral and/or resource acquisition. Provide referral of clients to appropriate / specialist services as required At the request of the client, act as an advocate and/or support for clients accessing referral services and other agencies. Work  within relevant legislation, regulations, codes of practice/conduct and organisational policy and procedures. Maintain factual and objective client records acknowledging the provision of the Privacy Act. Provide outreach services, as required Submit monthly operational and statistical report to the Co-ordinator of Springvale Community Services Perform other duties as requested by the Co-ordinator Actively participate in weekly staff meetings Participate in and contribute to the overall Springvale Community Services Strategic Plan Provide a weekly planner at beginning of each week outlining activities relating to the position role to the Co-ordinator Maintain ongoing professional development ensuring up-to-date knowledge of legislation, referral resources and current professional practices Reporting Relationships

Antony and Cleopatra Essay

Throughout ‘Antony and Cleopatra’s’ long theatrical history, many generations have perceived the represented conflict between eastern and western values in the light of their own concerns, often concluding that one sphere is innately more ‘moral’ than its converse. This is heightened by Shakespeare’s ambiguity in his portrayal of the characters of Caesar and Cleopatra, who embody ‘West’ and ‘East’ respectively. Many of Shakespeare’s contemporaries saw striking parallels between Caesar and the new King James, who had expressed a wish to become a new, English Augustus. Audiences, therefore, could infer that through the author’s portrayal of Caesar as a cold force, lacking empathy and humanity but proffering peace and unity, Shakespeare was alluding to James as representative of a new Western value system that he could not fully endorse. Audiences may have understood the idea that with the heralding of a new era, a key element – which the ‘east’ in the play represents – had been repressed from the British consciousness. Some would have associated this with the death of Queen Elizabeth, a popular, enigmatic ruler who, in retrospect seemed to embody the last of a ‘Golden Age,’ where mystery and splendour existed alongside reason and politics. Often, priggish Victorian audiences found the play rather challenging to their notion of the innate supremacy of British civilisation and Western values. By the 19th century, Britain had metamorphosed into a dominant world power similar to that controlled by Caesar, and many features, such as a rampant imperialism, a strive for power, and a tendency to frequently moralise, were in common with that of the Rome presented by Shakespeare. Their Western perspective, and the absence of any moral conclusion by Shakespeare, led many Victorians to adopt the Roman viewpoint – ultimately empathise with Caesar and condemn the protagonists’ love as innately immoral. Many Victorians were repelled by an East that was practically the antithesis of their society – the frank portrayal of sexuality, the fraternisation of royals with commoners, and the overall decadence of the Alexandrian court were condemned, and although audiences were still fascinated by Cleopatra, she was cast as the villain of the piece, who; ‘The triple pillar of the world transformed  Into a strumpet’s fool.’  The 20th century saw a diverse range of responses towards the antithesis, many corresponding with the perspectives from which theatrical productions approached the problem. There is still sometimes the tendency to moralise the concepts of Rome and Egypt, arguing one must be ‘good’ and the other automatically ‘bad,’ and many productions focus on either the political (Roman) or the emotional (Egyptian) aspects of the play. Since the tragedy of September 11th, the media have largely exaggerated the notion of an inherent conflict between the ‘Christian West’ and the ‘Islamic East,’ and this adds a new dimension to the play for current viewers.  The antithesis between Rome and Egypt tears them apart, but also inextricably entangles them. As without light, there would be no darkness, where ‘East’ does not exist, the concept of ‘West’ is nullified. Both are essential components of complete humanity, and Caesar’s apparent victory over Egypt is notable only for its superficiality – the ‘East’ can never be expunged, and will always be a key element of human consciousness. However, through their deaths, Antony and Cleopatra transcend these converse forces, and in reconciling ‘East’ and ‘West’ to reach the ultimate potential of their humanity are propelled into the realms of mythology. The conclusion is one merging tragedy and supreme divinity, where the lovers are seemingly destroyed by the world yet truly conquer it, exalted into immortality and splendour as the magnificent lovers that the tumultuous, paradoxical mortal world could never allow them to be. Bibliography Antony and Cleopatra – William Shakespeare  Antony and Cleopatra: A Shakespearean adjustment -John F Danby  Macmillan Master Guides: Antony and Cleopatra – Martin Wine

Applications of AI Technology essays

Applications of AI Technology essays AI is one of the most rapidly expanding technology fields, and has applications in almost every other discipline in the world. AI technology, while new, is so pervasive that it has already become a critically important component in many other existing technologies. In this report, the use of AI will be discussed in the following fields: consumer electronics and home entertainment, the military, business, medicine, and exploration. AI in Consumer Electronics and Home Entertainment Although many people do not realize it, advanced AI exists all around us, and is all the time increasing its presence in our homes. In fact, AI play's a large role in many of the things that we use and interact with everyday, in a variety of ways both prominent and subtle. The most prominent area where AI is demonstrated to us at is home. While most people would automatically assume that this statement refers to something computer related, or something very technical and important, it is in fact through our toys that we see AI interact with us everyday. Although this notion may seem a bit ridiculous, it is in fact very much the truth. Video games and high tech toys draw us to them because they offer a level of interaction that other toys cannot match. It is to these objects that we go when we want to get away from the boring monotonous work a day world that our society has devolved (yes, devolved) into. Since we play with toys in order to put us in a better mood, it is therefore important that these toys and games are able to understand what we are doing and adapt to fit our needs. When someone boots up a video game, they do not wish to play with something that doesn't play back. What kind of video game would have only the player standing around not i nteracting with anything? When a child comes home from school and begins playing with their newest doll or action figure, it is much more fun to play with it when it uses its sensors to track and fire pla...

28 Serious Quotes From British Comedian Charlie Chaplin

28 Serious Quotes From British Comedian Charlie Chaplin Charlie Chaplin (1889-1977) became a star well before movies had sound. But his talent to turn the tragedies of everyday people into epic comedies has made him immortal on the silver screen as he played everything from a tramp to a buffoon dictator. The following quotes consist of Chaplins observations on his life, career, and the study of human nature. Charlie Chaplin on Laughter and a Positive Outlook A day without laughter is a day wasted.To truly laugh, you must be able to take your pain, and play with it!Youll never find a rainbow if youre looking down.Failure is unimportant. It takes courage to make a fool of yourself. On Despair and Tragedy Despair is a narcotic. It lulls the mind into indifference.I always like walking in the rain, so no one can see me crying.Life is a tragedy when seen in close-up, but a comedy in long-shot.Nothing is permanent in this wicked world, not even our troubles.The saddest thing I can imagine is to get used to luxury.We might as well die as to go on living like this. Chaplins Comedy and Career All I need to make a comedy is a park, a  policeman, and a pretty girl.I dont believe that the public knows what it wants; this is the conclusion that I have drawn from my career.I went into the business for the money, and the art grew out of it. If people are disillusioned by that remark, I cant help it. Its the truth.The basic essential of a great actor is that he loves himself in acting.Imagination means nothing without doing.Why should poetry have to make sense? On Human Nature A mans true character comes out when hes drunk.I am at peace with God. My conflict is with Man.I am for people. I cant help it.We think too much and feel too little.What do you want a meaning for? Life is a desire, not a meaning.We all want to help one another. Human beings are like that. We want to live by each others happiness, not by each others misery. On Beauty and Understanding I do not have much patience with a thing of beauty that must be explained to be understood.If it does need additional interpretation by someone other than the creator, then I question whether it has fulfilled its purpose. On Politics I remain just one thing, and one thing only, and that is a clown. It places me on a far higher plane than any politician.The hate of men will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people. And so long as men die, liberty will never perish.Dictators free themselves, but they enslave the people.Id sooner be called a successful crook than a destitute monarch.

Century Music Study Guide

Chopin (1809-1848) He often wrote some nationalism pieces such as a Mazurka that sounds like a Polish folk dance. He kept composing music until a few months before he died of tuberculosis. His music is made for solo piano. Wagner (1813-1883) A German who was a very controversial composer. HIS operas often included social and political ideas as he was openly anti-Semitic and his music was later used as Nazi propaganda. He built his own opera house in Bayreuth where he would put on performances of three operas.He didnt consider his operas to be operas but rather music dramas. Catchalls (1829-1869) He was an American composer and virtuoso pianist who was best known as a performer of his own works. Although born In New Orleans he achieved International fame. HIS musical training comes from the Paris Conservatory. Like Chopin, Catchalls also used nationalism in his music. Genres to know: Symphony Beethovens Fifth Symphony is in cyclic form which is a new form where individual movements off work are linked in some way. First few notes are fate notes.There are now extreme dynamics with the newly expanded orchestra that now Includes a piccolo and contrabass. Musical cells were played with opposed to long, flowing melodies. There Is a basic rhythmic motif In every theme. FIFO 19th century Italian opera Voices were thought to be superior and virtuosic. Showcases the voice, orchestra was used sparingly, dramatically realistic, appeals to listeners, and drama of text captured through music. Music drama The melodies were simpler to support the text and therefore the plot of the opera.In an effort to restore dramatic integrity to opera Wagers reforms include singing that was musical, yet clear, syllabic singing, less repetition in songs, sees structured flow, and the orchestra reflects the plot. Character piece A relatively short piece that captures a particular character. Solo piano work Concepts to know: Nationalism can generally be described as the result of pride in ones country Cyclic form Individual movements of a work linked in some way. The first 4 notes of this work are often referred to as the fate motive (short-short-short-long), and are said to represent fate knocking on ones door.The basic rhythmic motif (S-S-S-L) appears in every theme making it cyclic. Romanticism, and the affect of romanticism on composers Mode of thought that emerged in late 18th and early 19th centuries and placed unprecedented importance on imagination and subjectivity over reason and objectivity. The imagination and projection of individual emotions of the composers themselves took precedence over rationality and balance. Composers were seen as spiritual guides who had access to this special world. Music as political force During the Romantic era, many composers believed that composition could inspire listeners to action.There were also many uprising during his time in Europe. European populace questioned their government and political freedoms. Music was an important vehicle for expressing political sentiment. Leitmotif a brief musical phrase or idea connected dramatically to some person, ;vent, or idea in the drama Chamber music music performed in a private setting Expansion of the orchestra added the piccolo and contrabass to add range to the orchestra Questions to consider: century. Romanticism was more about how you think about art rather than a new form.The instrumental music from this era was now seen as music that could engage the imagination of listeners more directly and evoke ideas that emotions that could not be captured by words. Composers were now perceived to have a window on the infinite and the spiritual, and their social status rose accordingly. Provide examples of musicians who were both composers and virtuoso performers. Catchalls How did Wagner transform opera? How are his music dramas different from typical operas of the 19th century, such as those by Italian composers? 19th Italian Opera: voices were thought to be superior and virtuosic.Showcases the voice, orchestra was seed sparingly, dramatically realistic, appeals to listeners, and drama of text captured through music. Wagner: The melodies were simpler to support the text and therefore the plot of the opera. In an effort to restore dramatic integrity to opera Angers reforms include singing that was musical, yet clear, syllabic singing, less repetition in songs, less structured flow, and the orchestra reflects the plot. Provide some examples of nationalism in music, including pieces and composers. Chopping Mazurka in a-flat, pop. 7, no. 1. Hat are some general characteristics of 19th century music?Compare and contrast 19th century music with music from the Classic era. 19th Century: extremes explored, forms expanded, dynamics expanded, boundaries were pushed. Expanded orchestra Inch included more instruments to create more range (trombone, tube, contrabass, and piccolo). It was expressive and included nationalism. Performing composers like Beethoven, Chopin, and Catchalls. Classic Era: Approachable music for public, not virtuosic, forms established. How did 19th century music push the boundaries of musical traditions which were established in the Classic era? Provide examples.Forms were expanded such as cyclic form which didnt exist in the Classic Era. They emphasized extreme contrasts of textures between the simple and complex. They wrote music that ranged from the disarmingly simple to the fiendishly difficult, often within the course of the same Nor. They gave growing importance to program music which sometimes included exploring the darker side of human psyche. The orchestra was also expanded to enlarge the range by adding instruments such as the piccolo and contrabass. Explain the prevalence of large scale public works and smaller chamber works in the 19th century. In the 19th century there was a demand for music in the home because the Industrial Revolution increased that manufacturing of instruments which made instruments more affordable. No most households in the middle and upper class home had a piano. As a result for piano compositions and songs chamber music grew as a result. Some composers began to have music parties where they would from nationalism in which composers thought that their music could inspire the public thus performing it in front of large audiences would be most effective in getting their music across.Discuss the affect of a piano in every home on composers and music in general in the 19th century. In the 19th century there was a demand for music in the home because the Industrial Revolution increased that manufacturing of instruments which made instruments more affordable. No most households in the middle and upper class home had a piano. As a result for piano compositions and songs chamber music grew as a result. Inch made instruments more affordable. No most households in the middle and

Contemporary Leadership Theory Literature review

Contemporary Leadership Theory - Literature review Example According to the paper findings there is a wide range of leadership theories which have been developed through the years. The theories are classified into seven. The first is the known as the Great Man theories, which are founded on the idea that leaders are extraordinary individuals whose leadership qualities are inborn. The use of the term â€Å"Man† was intentional since it was generally held throughout the early half of the twentieth century that leadership is a male attribute; in fact, William James wrote that the course of history is determined by great men, without whom the masses could not progress. The next group is the trait theories, referring to the focus on traits or qualities that a good leader is thought to possess (though which are not necessarily inborn). The study of â€Å"great men† that preceded this yielded very few commonalities among them, giving rise to the idea that what defines a leader would be the set of admirable characteristics he possessed , such as intelligence, self-confidence, determination and integrity . Behaviourist theories are anchored on the actions of leaders rather than their attributes. Behaviour patterns are studied and categorised to comprise â€Å"leadership styles†. The next school of leadership theories is known as situational leadership. This set of theories views effective leadership not in terms of traits or actions, but the match between these and the situation being addressed. The situational leadership model holds that â€Å"the style of leadership should be mathed ot the level of readiness of the followers†. ... 66). Behaviourist theories, which came next, are anchored on the actions of leaders rather than their attributes. Behaviour patterns are studied and categorised to comprise â€Å"leadership styles†. Behaviourist theorists conceive of leadership in terms of the roles they fulfil, and the manner in which they are expected to fulfil them (Crainer & Dearlove, 2003, p.1). The next school of leadership theories is known as situational leadership. This set of theories views effective leadership not in terms of traits or actions, but the match between these and the situation being addressed. The situational leadership model holds that â€Å"the style of leadership should be mathed ot the level of readiness of the followers† (Hellreigel & Slocum, 2007, p. 221). The model (also known as contingency model) is comprised of three basic components – a set of possible leadership styles, a taxonomy of alternative situations which leaders are likely to encounter, and a stipulatio n of which style constitutes appropriate response to which situation. More recently, the transactional theory of leadership has emerged, focusing on task orientedness and ability to direct groups in a particular way so as to accomplish specific goals. Compliance is ensured through different approaches, such as offering incentives, threatening sanctions, appealing to the group’s sense of duty or selflessness, or prevailing upon their followers’ rational judgment, with the leader having little personal involvement with the group other than driving them to achieve an objective (Martin, et al., 2006, p. 47). Finally, the transformational leadership theory is based on the belief that leadership is not just the sole prerogative of people at the

Management Info Systems Individual Work wk6 Essay

Management Info Systems Individual Work wk6 - Essay Example Walmart have improved its data communication system to suppliers by adding various customized webs from where customers can access better and efficient services. For instance, Procter &Gamble, and Warner-Lambert websites (Bidgoli, 2002). The primary goal is to lower prices and enhance the level of customer services with the suppliers and general customers. Walmart has also engaged a web-based access system where providers can access updates and essential information about significant developments in the company. This will reduce the cost of transportation and enhance the flow of information from one supply to another. The web-based access system will also enable suppliers to reach potential customers with much ease hence more sales and general profitability of Walmart Company. Through the various data application programs, Walmart and its supplier will have a better communication hence increased efficiency in service delivery (Bidgoli, 2002). Different data communication application are in use in Walmart Company. Such application includes; customized websites for their suppliers, Web-based access application, Wireless technology application, vehicle management systems, and two-way text messaging application and security system applications (Bidgoli, 2002). Each application is designed to enhance service in a particular area within the industry. For instance, the security system applications are designed to improve supplier’s safety and protect providers from accessing each other supplier’s data. This gives them confidence to explore in diverse areas and take extra supply measures without fear that their counterparts may interfere with them. The two-way text messaging system ensures that material handling resources are directed to the locations where they serve the best. This enhances productivity and reduces material wastage. Web-based applications on the other hand ensures that suppliers can transact

Flexible deterrent option Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Flexible deterrent option - Essay Example FDO is therefore a more collective and integrated approach than other military actions. In this essay therefore, an existing flexible deterrent option is scrutinized by use of initial force analysis to understudy how the FDO increases defense support to the key determinants of FDO mentioned above. The emphasis of deterrence is a Task Force to deter Ahurastani aggression from aggravating. Initial Force Analysis for a Flexible Deterrent Option Capabilities needed to accomplish the specified key tasks For the flexible deterrent option to be successfully executed, there are key capabilities that must be accomplished for each key specific task. An important aspect of the flexible deterrent option is that even though the flexible deterrent option (FDO) has an aim of securing Nakhchivan airfield to facilitate force and sustainment flow into the entire Nakhchivan region, this aim would be seen as a collective goal that cannot be achieved by performing only one task. Once this happens, the FD O becomes an event rather than a process. The aim can therefore be broken down into specific objectives, which are each backed by a specific key task. The collective achievement of the tasks then represents the achievement of the aim3. ... These are sustainable competence, guidance, energy and materials (engagement), combat readiness, information acquisition and processing, environment (knowledge), systems and modeling (maneuver), and force structure. Because of the interrelated nature of the mission of the FDO, these capabilities will be treated as related components of the mission rather than individual capabilities that apportioned forces must exhibit. Resources in apportioned forces There are three major apportioned forces, which are army, air force and navy. Among each of these forces, it is expected that all six capabilities identified above will be exhibited. But in order to make this possible, it is expected that certain resources that enhance the development of the capabilities will be in place. This is particularly necessary as the capabilities cannot be acquired or learned on an independent basis in the absent of resources. Currently, within the army, it is noted that there is an existence of huge problems w ith training, equipping and motivation for soldiers. Meanwhile for capability such as sustainable competence to take place, it is important that soldiers receive training on a constant basis so that their competences can be guaranteed and sustained. The same argument about training is true if capabilities like engagement, combat readiness, knowledge and maneuver can all be acquired4. For the capability of knowledge, which deals with information acquisition and processing to take place, it is expected that the army will be well equipped in the delivery of its duties. A similar case can be made for force structure, sustainable competence and combat readiness, which are all capabilities that cannot be guaranteed in the absence of motivation for soldiers.

Communicating with Depressed Elderly Patients Essay

Communicating with Depressed Elderly Patients - Essay Example Because of these painful losses for the elderly, suicide rates among the aged were continuously increasing, but symptoms of depression are seldom recognized and treated in this vulnerable population. It could be then that out of ten older people only one receives treatment for their depression and the rest are ignored (Ainsworth, 2000, 37). According to the Epidemiologic Catchment Area Study (ECA) funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (U.S.) in the latter part of the 1980s, depressive indications take place in more or less 15 per cent of people over sixty five years of age. At the minimum, 3 per cent of older people endure severe depression, particularly those who live in nursing homes, where the incidences of depression are higher than the average 15 per cent (ibid, 37). Sadly, depressed elderly people spending the remaining days of their lives in nursing homes may appear to be whiners and be given no treatment for their miserable condition. Their depression are concealed since the actual nature of the sickness is masked behind a shroud of physical grumbles, or else the elderly person keeps away from interpreting the symptoms for anxiety of being called insane. Elderly patients generally endure mild memory lapses and dawdling mental activities, both circumstances resulting from physical causes. As soon as depression develops beyond this mild brain dysfunction, the outcome frequently appears to be an advanced case of dementia or â€Å"old-timer’s disease† (Cohen, 1990, 26), for which the mournful family believes there is no possibility to be treated. However, with proper diagnosis and therapeutic procedures for the treatment of serious depression, elderly patients often get rid of the symptoms of this pseudo-dementia and experience prog ress in both brain processes and quality of existence (ibid). For diverse causes, different cultures have begun to witness a remarkable boost in the need for family members to become concerned in

The Underlying causes of women empowerment in the Management Level Dissertation

The Underlying causes of women empowerment in the Management Level across the past decade in the United Kingdom - Dissertation Example Modern women today are given the opportunity to gain better access to education. Since education is a key factor that enables the UK government to effectively eliminate work-related discrimination within the work environment, the inability of men and women to receive proper education is considered as one of the most common factors that lead to work inequalities between men and women. Based on the gathered primary and secondary research findings, this study concludes that the underlying causes of women empowerment in management positions in UK includes not only the presence of feminist groups in UK but also the socio-economic factors that make women become at risk of being deprived of access to better education. Table of Contents Executive Summary †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦... 2 Table of Contents †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â ‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 3 I. Introduction .............................................................................. 5 a. Purpose of this Study ................................................. 6 b. Research Objective(s) ............................................... 7 b.1 Sub-Objectives ............................................. ... Rationale for Choosing the Research Topic ............... 10 d. Background of the Project .......................................... 10 II. Literature Review ..................................................................... 13 a. General Overview on Women Empowerment in UK †¦.... 13 b. Differences between Men and Women as Managers and Organizational Leaders †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 15 c. Factors that Increases Work Inequalities between Men and Women ............................................................... 17 d. Why Women would Choose to have Full-Time or Part-Time Employment ................................. 19 e. Underlying Causes of Women Empowerment in UK Management Level †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 21 III. Research Methodology ....................................................... 25 a. Primary Research Method . ................................................ 25 b. Target Population, Sample Size, and Research Venue ..... 29 c. Research Evaluation and Analysis Method ........................ 30 d. Research Evaluation and Analysis Method ........................ 30 e. Ethical Considerations in Primary Research Study ............ 30 IV. Research Findings and Analysis ................................................. 33 V. Conclusion and Recommendations ............................................ 43 Appendix I – Quantitative Research Survey Questionnaire .................. 47 Appendix II – Research Interview Questionnaire .................................. 48 Appendix III – Quantitative Research Survey Results ........................... 49 Appendix IV – Qualitative Research Survey Results ............................ 50 Appendix IV

Sociology of the body Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Sociology of the body - Essay Example This study is being undertaken in order to establish a well supported notion or social construct in the sociology of the body. Discussion Different members of society often fashion or build their bodies based on accepted societal views of masculinity and femininity. In so doing, they often try to shape and use their bodies to fit their gender and cultural expectations. This practice seems to emphasize not so much on the distinctiveness of our bodies, but more on what society dictates as acceptable forms or shapes (Lorber and Martin, 2007, p. 227). Our genes partially determine our biological make-up and other environmental factors complete our physiology. Outside such biological constructs, cultural and social factors and attitudes attached to gender-based practices are also a crucial part of our overall make-up. Such practices create bodies which some social groups classify as masculine or feminine. In effect, the longing for better looking bodies have manifested in trends which len d greater support to cosmetic surgery, growth hormones, anabolic steroids, bodybuilding, and other fitness regimens for both men and women (Lorber and Martin, 2007, p. 227). Many advertisements for plastic surgeries also target men and women in their vulnerabilities. Men with gynecomastia or enlarged breasts, and women with small breasts have been exposed to ads which declare solutions to their issues – for men wanting to be rid of their gynecomastia and for women wanting bigger and perkier breasts (Lorber, 1994, p. 3). Women have also been exposed to the societal notion or expectation that having perky, large, and firm breasts, as well as slim bodies is the accepted shape to be in. In effect, many women wanting to fit the accepted societal demands have given in to breast lifts/reductions/augmentations and to puffier lips, toned abdomens, and shapely buttocks (Grogan, 2008, p. 52). Advertisements for plastic surgeries have capitalized on the portrayal of ideal images of beaut y – young, fresh, thin, and shapely forms. Millions of Americans have heeded these demands with about 6.9 million of them giving into the cosmetic surgery in 2002 alone; 88% of these are actually women (Lorber and Martin, 2007, p. 278). Most of these surgeries have included liposuction, eyelid surgery, nose reshaping, breast augmentation, breast reduction, as well as hair transplants and ear reshaping for men. In terms of age, most of those seeking plastic surgery fall in the 34-50 year age group and most of these surgeries have been carried out among the whites, with few having been performed on minority groups (Lorber and Martin, 2007, p. 8). Due to its high cost, these surgeries have mostly been carried out in the affluent population, however, considering the general population’s obsession with losing weight through exercise machines and diet pills, it is a trend which still covers many people regardless of financial capability or ethnic affinities. Bodies are socia lly constructed because they are tools used by many people in order to gain some form of progress or advancement in their life (Davids, Evans, and Lorber, 2006, p. 55). Even if the business and employment world may capitalize on one’s skills, talents, knowledge, and educational background to determine employment, still, it cannot be denied that one’s looks affect a person’s success and employment status. One classic example is the fact that there has

The Underlying causes of women empowerment in the Management Level Dissertation

The Underlying causes of women empowerment in the Management Level across the past decade in the United Kingdom - Dissertation Example Modern women today are given the opportunity to gain better access to education. Since education is a key factor that enables the UK government to effectively eliminate work-related discrimination within the work environment, the inability of men and women to receive proper education is considered as one of the most common factors that lead to work inequalities between men and women. Based on the gathered primary and secondary research findings, this study concludes that the underlying causes of women empowerment in management positions in UK includes not only the presence of feminist groups in UK but also the socio-economic factors that make women become at risk of being deprived of access to better education. Table of Contents Executive Summary †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦... 2 Table of Contents †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â ‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 3 I. Introduction .............................................................................. 5 a. Purpose of this Study ................................................. 6 b. Research Objective(s) ............................................... 7 b.1 Sub-Objectives ............................................. ... Rationale for Choosing the Research Topic ............... 10 d. Background of the Project .......................................... 10 II. Literature Review ..................................................................... 13 a. General Overview on Women Empowerment in UK †¦.... 13 b. Differences between Men and Women as Managers and Organizational Leaders †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 15 c. Factors that Increases Work Inequalities between Men and Women ............................................................... 17 d. Why Women would Choose to have Full-Time or Part-Time Employment ................................. 19 e. Underlying Causes of Women Empowerment in UK Management Level †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 21 III. Research Methodology ....................................................... 25 a. Primary Research Method . ................................................ 25 b. Target Population, Sample Size, and Research Venue ..... 29 c. Research Evaluation and Analysis Method ........................ 30 d. Research Evaluation and Analysis Method ........................ 30 e. Ethical Considerations in Primary Research Study ............ 30 IV. Research Findings and Analysis ................................................. 33 V. Conclusion and Recommendations ............................................ 43 Appendix I – Quantitative Research Survey Questionnaire .................. 47 Appendix II – Research Interview Questionnaire .................................. 48 Appendix III – Quantitative Research Survey Results ........................... 49 Appendix IV – Qualitative Research Survey Results ............................ 50 Appendix IV

Nineteen Eighty Four - Dystopian Society Essay Example for Free

Nineteen Eighty Four Dystopian Society Essay In the novel â€Å"Nineteen Eighty-Four† George Orwell created the dystopian society of Oceania, where the government has complete control of the language used by citizens. Aside from individuals of lower social class called the â€Å"Proles,† the â€Å"Party† constantly watches everyone. In an attempt to eliminate any chances of rebellion against the Party, they created the new language of â€Å"Newspeak. † Newspeak eliminates any controversial words along with all synonyms, antonyms and verbs. By doing this, the government has gained the power of meaning. Syme, a specialist in Newspeak tells the main character Winston exactly what control Newspeak has allowed the Party to have. â€Å"Don’t you see the whole aim of Newspeak is the narrow the range of thought? In the end we shall all make thoughtcrime literally impossible, because there will be no words in which to express it. † (Orwell 54). Along with that, the Party also has complete control of written language by altering history related documents to match the history that is in favor of this political power. The altering of these documents is what happens to be Winston’s job. While at work Winston pondered the power of being able to control the past, coming to a startling realization. As written by the narrator of the novel, â€Å"the past, he reflected had not only been altered, it had actually been destroyed. For how could you establish even the most obvious fact when there existed no record outside your own memory? † (Orwell 36). On top of being historically mislead, citizens are restricted of express any thought of their own or any way to voice against the Party. When you no truthful record for the past, the past doesn’t exist. When you have no words to associate with a meaning, the meaning behind the word then vanishes just like the political history of Oceania. For these reasons, a society with government restricted verbal and written language is one that proves to be dystopian.

Welfare To Work Programmes

Welfare To Work Programmes Welfare to work programmes have been used by governments since the 1980s to articulate a desire to replace passive support for unemployment and active measures to help encourage people to get into paid work. The Labour government reiterated this principle, but took a number of new approaches building up to an ambitious programme for welfare reform for people of working age. This essay will study the origins and rationale of New Labours welfare to work programme. It will also examine the impact it has had on people and unemployment since the programme has been introduced. While there is evidence that welfare to work programmes has been around before 1997 (when Labour came into power), their results were patchy and they had not been continuous. When the Conservatives were in power, their policies were criticised because it was more concerned with minimising fraud than maximising work, and it encouraged dependency and trapped people in unemployment. By 1995, Gordon Brown, the then Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, argued that government could not simply create jobs, but â€Å"its role was to promote macroeconomic stability and provide economic and employment opportunities for all† (Field White, 2007). He then proposed that the future government should launch New Deal for under 25s. Subsequently, 1996 the unemployed in Britain were redefined as â€Å"jobseekers† by the 1996 Jobseekers Act (HMSO, 1994). To qualify for the new jobseekers allowance (JSA) required that unemployed individuals to enter an agreement indicating the steps they intended to take to look for a work and the minimum wages they would accept. Jobseekers were given guidance in looking for jobs in a particular way, to take other steps to improve their employability or participate in training schemes. Under the JSA agreement, claimants have to commit to active job seeking behaviour, and they had to sign a declaration to which they understood that their benefit eligibility would be affected if they do not do enough to find work, are deemed unavailable for work or act in any way to reduce their chances of getting work. Failure to comply with the jobseekers agreement will ultimately result in benefit sanctions. It was believed that most unemployed looked for jobs but the JSA system was designe d to intensify activity and put pressure on those who were genuinely not looking for work. However, following the introduction of JSA there was increased job search activity with the newly unemployed but it was less effective with the long term unemployed. New Labours welfare to work programme is based on a typically American â€Å"workfare† approach. Workfare refers to the requirement that people who are judged able to work and available to work must seek and accept work in the regular labour market. The reforms have which have taken place have originated and been influenced by US-styled workfare. However, this move towards a US-styled welfare is not a new trend, the British policy makers have been influenced by US welfare systems in the past when the Conservatives were in power. Governments have always been cautious and resistant about being referred to as a US-styled workfare, opposed by both the right and left for different reasons: â€Å"the right disliked the expense involved setting up training schemes and the left sees any element of compulsion as anathema† (Daguerre, 2004). Nevertheless, just before Conservatives lost office, they moved more towards workfare through a proposed large-scale extension of â€Å"Proj ect Work† (A programme requiring the long-term unemployed to work part time in community projects). The start of the programme Restart, The Stricter Benefit Regime and Employment Training programmes was also a step closer to a US-styled workfare (Peck, 2001). New Labours flagship was New Deal, it placed more emphasis on training than any previous policies, and it also promoted compulsion for target groups. The new welfare system under New Labour appears to have strong echoes and similarities to the US-styled workfare and this can be clearly seen from the Labour Partys policies which indicate strong emphasis on making work pay and not the other way round, in which dependency on benefits would pay for people. Moreover, the redesign of New Deal in 2001, Labours second term, was working more towards moving as many people of working age into the labour-market. This is influenced by American ideas in a few ways. Firstly, the government was promoting a â€Å"work first approach† and getting people to work and not rely on benefits. Secondly, the formation of the â€Å"Jobcentre Plus†, which is a single point of service to all benefit claimants. This is partially based on American Administration. Alistair Darling, the Chancellor of t he Exchequer quoted that the Jobcentre Plus is there to provide everyone with the help they need to find work, quickly as possible, and it is a work first approach (Daguerre, 2004). Thirdly, the greater compulsion is based on the American approach. This involves the introduction to work-focused interviews for benefit claimants, particularly for lone parents. In 1997, the future Prime Minister Tony Blair spoke about New Labours approach to welfare reform would focus on services, not just cash benefits, and would be designed to help people meet change in an increasingly insecure world. New Labour would increase the employability through education and skills and an active employment service. Labour came in to power in 1997 and one month after winning power, the Prime Minister Tony Blair confirmed that the greatest challenge to his â€Å"welfare to work† government was to refashion the institutions to bring new workless class back in to society (Finn, 2003). Shortly following this speech, in 1997, New Deal for 18-25 years old was introduced. It became something of a political mantra for New Labour, in which there would be â€Å"no fifth option† of a life on benefit; and those refusing to comply with the rules would be docked 40 percent of their benefit (Peck, 2001). New Deal represents the first real attempt to implement activa tion policies for the unemployed in Britain. Labours first term in government highlighted the performance of the economy and an increase in employment. At a time when there was a much needed change in the welfare state, New Labour came in to power and did just that. The Prime Minister Tony Blair promised employment opportunities for all and committed the government towards full employment over the next decade. When the Conservatives were in power, their policies made people dependent on benefits and trapped them into unemployment. New Labours welfare to work programme would put a stop to this and make work pay, and not make benefits pay. Labours reasons for a reform on welfare state is to bring the workless class back in to society. Blair made a speech saying; â€Å"Now at the close of the 20th century, the decline of old industries and the shift to an economy based on knowledge and skills has given rise to a new class: a workless class. A large minority is playing no role in the formal economy, dependent on benefits and the black economy Today the greatest challenge for any democratic government is to refashion our institutions to bring this new workless class back into society and into useful work, and to bring back the will to win.† (Tony Blair, speech at the Aylesbury Estate, June 1997) The rationale of New Labours welfare to work programme is set to help those that are disadvantaged into employment and reduce the reliance of benefits; the end result would be an increase in employment and reductions on people living off benefits. Blair insisted that there would be â€Å"no no-go areas for New Labour† and at the heart of all the policy changes, welfare reform was on the top of the list. Welfare to work is defined by New Labour both as political and as an economic project; it is concerned with rejoining the poor in to paid work, and help people get into real jobs to tackle poverty. The task of the Labour government was seen one of radical and work reinforcing reform, and the task for wel fare recipients would be to cooperate and respond enthusiastically to the new opportunities (Labour Party, 1997). The New Deal programme was introduced after two decades in which child poverty had doubled; the number of people on incapacity benefit had risen by 1.5 million; and more than 80,000 young people had been on unemployment benefit for more than a year (DWP, 2008). New Labour had promised to get 250,000 under 25 years-olds off benefits and into work. The welfare to work budget was funded by the way of a  £5.2 billion through a â€Å"windfall tax† on the profits of privatised utilities (Peck, 2001). The first priority was to tackle long-term youth unemployment. The New Deal for Young People (NDYP) was introduced to begin with; then New Deals for the long-term unemployed (New Deal 25 Plus); New Deal for Lone Parents (NDLP); New Deal for partners was introduced for the partners of the unemployed; New Deal 50 Plus; and New Deal for Disabled People (NDDP) was introduced, which was largely provided by voluntary and private sector. The objectives of the New Deals were to increase long- term employability and help young and long-term unemployed people, lone parents and disabled people into real jobs. NDYP is a mandatory programme for 18-25 year-olds who have been claiming jobseekers for six months. However, it is at the six month stage, benefit becomes conditional and claimants enter another stage of New Deal. New Deal has three stages; a gateway, an options and a follow through. Each of these stages aims to enhance the chances of people landing a job. The gateway period comes after six months of unemployment and lasts up to four months. At this stage, individuals are assigned to a personal advisor, who helps claimants find work and provides guidance. If after the four month gateway period participants fail to find work, they then enter the option stage. During this period each individual is required to take up the following four options: employer placement, voluntary-sector work, education or training, or a membership of an environmental task force (Field White, 2007). These stages on the New Deal programme are in place to aid people to gain knowledge, experience, skills, and t herefore better their chances of finding real jobs. The purpose of the New Deal programme is to improve employability, because in the end employment goes to the employable and in this increasing global competition, individuals need to be able to adapt to learning new skills. New Deal has promoted work for lone parents and disabled people, for whom job search is a condition of receiving benefit. Work-focussed interviews have become mandatory and it is an approach to which all working age individuals who are living on benefits consider the possibility of entering the labour market (JRF, 2004). Until recently in the UK lone parents were not obliged to register for work until their youngest child was 16. However, this has now changed and as proposed by the Green Paper, from October 2008 lone parents with older children will no longer be entitled to Income Support solely on the grounds of being a lone parent (DWP, 2007). Instead those who are able to work can claim Jobseekers Allowance and they will be required to look for work. From October 2010, lone parents with the youngest child aged 7 or over will no longer be able to receive benefits on the grounds of being a lone parent. Labours welfare to work programme has introduced major tax and benefit reforms which, in combination with new rights at work, including the national minimum wage, are targeted at making work pay. The development of tax credits has expanded and transformed support for people with low incomes. The family credit was replaced by Child Tax Credit for parents with low income and the Working Tax Credit was introduced for those on low earnings. Together with the minimum wage, it has given people the incentive to work. Tax Credits have been linked to a wider objective of reducing child poverty, and it lifted relative child poverty by half a million (Finn, 2003). The government believes work is the best route out of poverty, and by introducing Tax Credits, the government is improving incomes for all children with parents that are not in paid work or in low-paid jobs. Tax Credits have improved unemployment and poverty traps, by ensuring individuals are entitled to more from working than from be nefits. However, this policy has been criticised for increasing dependency on employment, extending means testing up the salary scale and the potential impact on work incentive and employer wage-behaviour. The New Deals have been subject to an intense evaluation programme. The impact of New Labours welfare to work programme has been significant in reducing unemployment, and figures illustrate that â€Å"the number of people claiming Jobseekers Allowance is at its lowest for over 30 years. The number of long-term claimants unemployed has fallen from more than half a million to 125,000; while for young people it has fallen from 85,000 to fewer than 7,000† (DWP, 2008). By the end of 2001, it was suggested that half a million people had found jobs through the various New Deals and 53 percent of NDYP leavers were entering jobs (Finn, 2003). The most dramatic impact was with those who were unemployed for over a year, where the number fell from 90,700 to 5,100, a falloff almost 95 percent (JRF, 2004). Various independent researches confirm that New Deal has been successful in helping people find work. Research by the institute of Fiscal Studies found NDYP increased the probability of f inding a job by 20 percent (IFS, 2001). Also the introduction of personal advisors (NDPAs) has had a positive effect on participants, and evidence consistently has recognised the individualised help given by the NDPA as the key element of success. Even though findings done by independent researches imply that NDYP has reduced long-term youth unemployment, some people say the reduction of unemployment has merely reflected the strength of the economy, as since 1997 the economy has produced an additional 2.9 million jobs (JRF, 2004). The impact of New Deal has not been as significant as it was predicted and set out to be. Figures prove that youth unemployment is higher than when Labour was elected in 1997, and rising. Since 2001, figures on youth unemployment have been increasing, and those who are on NDYP and unemployed under six months has grown. This is because little seems to happen in the first six months of unemployment, and JSAs conditionality is increasingly ineffective as New Dealers and staff simply wait for the programme to start, which is six months into unemployment. Figures illustrate that by 2007 there was an increase of 82,000 young adults unemployed since 1998 (Field White, 2007). Similarly, the number of jobless young people, unemployed between six to twelve months is increasing and it stands well above the level at the start of the New Deal in 1998. What is more shocking is the level of unemployment for those who have been out of work for over 12 months; it has also increased dramatically since 1998, and the same applies for those who have been unemployed for more than two years. Overall, the number of young people unemployed, whether it is short-term, or long-term, it is on the increase. Claimants who have completed their New Deal, and still have not found work, are required to re-enter the New Deal, and then they are known as â€Å"retreads† (Field White, 2007). The number of retreads has continued to grow with some claimants entering New Deal not only for the second time, but a third, fourth or even fifth time. New Deal has been unsuccessful in finding work, and people are left jobless and dependent on benefits. This shows a structural weakness of the Governments New Deal programme, and data suggests that New Deal seems incapable of adapting to the needs people who find it difficult to find work, i.e. the very group which is most reliant on the New Deal for this purpose. Given that the government believes that the New Deal programme is to be the most effective way to ensure that there is no fifth option of remaining on benefits, why is there a growing number of people going on to New Deal for a second, third, fourth or fifth time? The government is contradi cting itself here. Long-term statistics suggest that men increased employment in the first six months after qualifying for NDYP. However, this disappeared over the following twelve months (Wilkinson, 2003). Women, do not do as well as men, and they tend to go the whole way up to the follow up period, implying a lower level of increase in employment. In 2007 there were 1,043,000 young people not in education, employment or training (Neets), which is a rise of 131,000 since 1997. However, despite the rise in youth unemployment, the proportion of young people on the New Deal is falling. Lone parents have suffered a complex range of barriers to work, ranging from attitudes of employers, access to childcare, to difficulties with meeting housing costs and the complexity of the welfare system. Findings were complemented and confirmed by a study of non-working lone mothers, which found that the majority of them had a general desire to work but were constrained from doing so by slim financial gains or by lack of suitable or affordable childcare (JRF, 2004). Paying for childcare was a significant barrier to work for lone parents. With the new policies which are being introduced in October 2010 for lone parents, it is most likely to increase unemployment rates with this target group and create further barriers. The increasing rate of unemployment is questioning New Labours rational of New Deal and its attempt to reduce dependency on benefits. Currently, unemployment is rising and New Deal has been criticised and been labelled as a failure. New Deal relies heavily on assisted job search and as we can see it is far from recession proof. This is why Labour has a new development which is called, Flexible New Deal. This new programme came in to force in autumn 2009, and it replaces the New Deal 18-24 and 25+ and Employment Zones programmes (DWP, 2008). Flexible New Deal has set out to provide an opportunity for Prime Contractor organisations from the private, public and third sectors to work together in partnership to deliver this new programme across all Jobcentre Plus districts. There are five core principles of the Flexible New Deal: A stronger framework of rights and responsibilities to move benefit customers from being passive recipients to active jobseekers. A personalised and responsive approach to individual customer needs which will provide tailored employment and skills support to meet the needs of both customers and local employers. A partnership approach with public, private and third sector organisations working together to maximise innovation, leading to more and better outcomes. Devolving and empowering communities for future sustainable employment which will be at the heart of neighbourhood renewal. Not just jobs, but jobs that pay and offer opportunities for progression, with an emphasis on sustaining and progressing in work to ensure all customers who need help to develop their skills have access to the relevant pre-employment and in-work training. The goal of Flexible new Deal is to eradicate child poverty by 2020, but this is not going to be an easy task. We are yet to see how successful this new programme will be in ensuring we move towards full employment and opportunity for all. In conclusion, New Labours welfare to work programme has helped to overcome unemployment at a time when the labour market was expanding and on a boom. Employers are more likely to take on the unemployed, as they desperately need staff to fill the vacancies. New Deals have helped more than 1.8 million people get into work in the last ten years. However, figures demonstrate how the rate of unemployment, particularly with the 18-25 year olds, has risen and is continuing to do so. The very rationale of New Labours welfare to work is being contradicted, as the unemployed are not being given realistic employment opportunities, and people are still signing on for benefits, not for work. The New Deal programme is clearly not adapting to fit the needs of participants or the labour market, as people are entering New Deal not only for the second time, but a third, fourth or more occasions. New Deal should be implemented from day one of unemployment for young people, as the largest group are tho se who unemployed for up to six months, which is before the New Deal programme kicks in. More of the same will not work, and the government needs to change the way New Deal is programmed and fit it around the needs of individuals and help them back into the labour market. We will have to wait and see how the development of the Flexible New Deal helps to reduce unemployment, but if the current situation is anything to go by, the government has a lot to prove. Bibliography Books Daguerre, A. (2004) Importing Workfare: Policy Transfer of Social and Labour Market Policies from the USA to Britain under New Labour, Social Policy Administration. p41-50. DWP (2008) Transforming Britains Labour market: Ten years of the New Deal, Department for Work and Pensions, London. p2-10 Field, F. and White, P. (2007) Welfare isnt working The New Deal for Young People, Reform, UK. p7-23 Finn, D. (2003). Employment Policy. In N. Ellison C. Pierson (Eds.), Developments in British social policy 2 (pp. 111-128). Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. p111-128 Peck, J. (2001). Another New Deal: Workfare, United Kingdom style. Chapter 7 In J. Peck (Ed.), Workfare states (pp. 261-340). New York: Guilford Press. p261-315 Kay, J. (1998) Evolutionary Politics. Prospect July: 31-35 Wilkinson, D. (2003) New Deal For Young People: Evaluation Of Unemployment Flows, Policy Studies Institute, London. Internet Sources JRF-Joseph Rowntree Foundation. (2004) Labours welfare reform: Progress to date http://www.jrf.org.uk/publications/labour%E2%80%99s-welfare-reform-progress-date (Date Accessed: 11/04/10) IFS- Institute for Fiscal Studies. (2001) Evaluating the employment impact of a mandatory job search assistance program. http://www.ifs.org.uk/publications/1734 (Date Accessed: 11/04/10)

The Rise of Universal Liberal Values? Essays -- Essays Papers

The Rise of Universal Liberal Values? Democracy is one thing, and constitutional liberalism quite another. In the inexorable march of modernity, Fareed Zakaria argues in The Rise of Illiberal Democracy, the message of constitutional liberalism has gotten lost in the clamor for democracy. This is problematic because, without a strong foundation of pluralism and constitutional liberalism, the apparatus of democracy can easily be hijacked by forces that hardly espouse the liberal values that have, in the Western mind, become transparently conflated with democracy. The fact that liberal constitutional democracy has become the unmarked case for Western pundits serves and most likely will continue to serve, Zakaria points out, as a legitimizing shroud around illiberal democracies' practices. What is problematic is Zakaria's notion of legitimacy: who are we to say whether, to the extent that we find an illiberal democratic regime's actions questionable or worse, that regime is illegitimate? Such pronouncements not only fly in t he face of the democratic orthodoxy, but also dangerously destabilize the props of national sovereignty that comprise the underpinning of the current international system. Democracy, broadly defined, is a mechanism of governance, the participation of a people in the selection of its rulers. Constitutional liberalism, on the other hand, as sketched by thinkers from the Enlightenment onward, is a philosophy of governance, granting the governed a set of inalienable personal freedoms, in addition to ensuring the rule of law and the separation of powers (132). These are quite clearly not the same thing, although they have been bedfellows for some time in the governments of western Europe and North America. Zakari... ...notions of basic liberal rights and freedoms upon other cultures that do not, by necessity, share them all. He takes the almost-insulting stance that people that choose an illiberal government do not know what is good for them, when they may in fact have quite tenable reasons to do so. To further suggest that America and company aim to spread these uniquely Western concepts is further problematic in that to do so could destabilize these countries, or even turn them against the West, surely not a desirable outcome. It is important to recognize that culture plays an important role in the choices people make, including their choice of government. And just as some cultures find nothing wrong with eating termites or belching in public, so too are they entitled to find no problem with illiberality to an extent. As long as they choose it voluntarily, it is their own choice.

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: A Neurophysiological Report :: Biology Essays Research Papers

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: A Neurophysiological Report Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder categorized as a form of parkinsonism. First described in 1964 by three Canadian neurologists, PSP is sometimes referred to as Steele-Richardson-Olszewski Syndrome, or Nuchal Dystonia Dementia Syndrome (1). Progressive damage to multiple brain cells associated with deterioration of the myelin sheath that speeds up nerve impulse conduction, as well as destruction of the entire nerve (2), result in severe and irreversible problems controlling balance, eye movement, breathing, and voluntary muscle movement (3). The actor Dudley Moore has been diagnosed with PSP and presently works to improve awareness and treatment of this enigmatic disease. Although PSP is frequently misdiagnosed as Parkinson's, the disorder progresses much more quickly, maintaining very unique and exclusive manifestations. Individuals suffering from PSP present clinically with akinetic rigid syndrome, gait ataxia, and supranuclear vertical-gaze palsy (4). Akinesia refers to the loss of control of voluntary muscle movements. This is expressed in loss of balance while walking and recurrent falls. A permanent "Mona Lisa" stare and wide-eyed expression is often described, in addition to guttural, slurred speech and swallowing difficulties (5). These facial distortions result from nerve damage controlling the facial muscles. All PSP individuals suffer from some degree of vertical-gaze palsy, in which the ability to move the eyes up-and-down is impaired (4). Muscles in the back of the neck and spine are usually severely affected, resulting in a retro-collis posture; the individual appears to perpetually look up toward the ceiling. Rigidity in the limbs is al so observed, although to a lesser degree. If rigidity does exist here, it is equal on both sides of the body. In Parkinson's disease, rigidity is more prominent and pronounced in the limbs, favoring one side more that the other (6). None of the tremors characteristic of Parkinson's are observed in PSP. Personality changes and dementia are also noted, particularly later in the development of the disease. PSP affects the brainstem, basal ganglia, and cerebellum. The brainstem controls involuntary movements such as breathing and heart rate. Three divisions of the brainstem have been delineated: the medulla oblongata, the pons, and the midbrain. In PSP, all three sections are affected. The pons controls facial nerves and eye muscles, while the midbrain is the visual center of the brain (3). The medulla (sometimes referred to as the "bulb") maintains speech and swallowing abilities. Paralysis here results in impairment of these functions.

A Positive Approach to the Future

A Positive Approach Towards the Future The issue of mandatory school uniforms has taken on several debates over the past decade; it is believed that this issue will plague public schools for decades to come. Students who wear uniforms feel a sense of being superior with their fellow classmates. This feeling of being part of a group boosts morale and individual confidence, thus leading to higher grades. Children will be more focused in a uniform classroom. There is no more distraction as to what the other kids are wearing or who has the name brand shoes. Girls will be dressed appropriately and clothing will fit properly. This adds to the learning experience. There is no more competition. There is no more rivalry and the children are able to focus on their schoolwork and not on the latest trends ( Bodine 67-69). Former President Clinton made a state of the union address in 1996; in that address, the subject of mandatory school uniforms was mentioned. â€Å"If it means that teenagers will stop killing each other over designer jackets, then our public schools should be able to require their students to wear uniforms† (Williams). In fact, that year in Long Beach, California, the first district to implement mandatory uniform policies, assault dropped by sixty-seven percent, vandalism by eighty-two percent, and robbery by thirty-five percent. Overall crime was reduced by seventy-three percent the first year the policy was in place (Williams). This was a direct reflection of the uniform policy. Students were more disciplined and behaved in a more mature manner. These students took pride in themselves and others. With the lack of material items to fight over, students no longer felt the need to use aggression towards others, proving that school uniforms do in fact improve student behavior. Also when it comes to crime, a student wearing a school logo, is less apt to commit a crime outside of school while in uniform because it would be easier to track him based off of the school information on the uniform? This lowers the crime rate for the general public as well as the in school instances. Not only do mandatory uniform policies for public schools offer the potential for higher educational benefits and improved student discipline, school uniforms dissolve social boundaries between classmates. Students are no longer judged based off their appearance but by who they are on the inside. There is no more competition between social classes that these students may have otherwise felt and they work together as a team and share a common pride. All students will feel a sense of belonging. No longer will lower income children be labeled as poor based off of their clothing. All children will appear as equals in the classroom and will be treated as such. However, some may argue that uniformity takes away from the student's individuality. Many children, especially teens, express themselves through their personal styles and the way they dress. Sometimes children need to feel special or unique and dressing a certain way is how they accomplish this. Uniformity takes away from the First Amendment by taking away freedom of expression. If we take away the freedom of expression, we are taking away our children's creativity and conforming them into a society where free thinking is not accepted. However this is not the case. The uniform does not change who the child is on the inside or how he thinks creatively. Students will still be able to focus creative energy through activities such as art, music, writing or sports. There are several creative outlets besides the choice of clothing options. When it comes to our economy, we as Americans must pinch our pennies where we can. Many parents are faced with the dilemma of outfitting their children in the latest trends or putting money towards more important things like saving for their children's college education. Some families are unable to afford the popular named brand clothing that their children desires, which make the children, feel inadequate in school when they are forced to wear lesser brand clothes or second hand outfits. School uniforms would take away that hassle of finding bargains to ensure that their children feel confident in their attire. Uniforms are generally more durable than the average street clothes. Granted, the cost may be a bit more substantial in the beginning, but the uniforms will last longer which means there is less out of pocket expense for replacement articles. With uniforms, the parents may only have to purchase two or three sets compared to several pairs of bottoms and tops. Uniforms are more durable and can be washed more frequently compared to regular clothes. This makes them the better option not only for lower income families, but all families in general (Romero C4+). Critics claim that uniforms will cost the families more money in the long run because parents will be forced to buy the uniforms and regular clothing for their children to wear when they are not in school. The cost for parents may double that of just buying traditional school clothes. Although this is partly true, that yes, parents will be faced to make additional purchases for their children, in reality, they really won't be spending that much more money if any. Since uniforms are more durable, the parents only need to buy a limited supply and since the children will only be wearing their regular clothes outside of school, parents will not have to buy as many outfits. Most children wear out their clothes while in school. Since this is not an issue with the uniforms, the traditional street clothes will last longer, hence saving the parents money in the long run. Also without the constant competition in schools, children may not feel the need to have the latest brands and styles as they would if they were wearing the clothes to school on a daily basis around other social classes (King 3-5). With all of the advantages and disadvantages of implementing mandatory uniform wear into our public schools, there needs to be a compromise. Some schools have decided that it is best to make minor changes to the dress code policy. When it comes to school uniforms, there is a never-ending debate as to what the right approach and the wrong approach may be for our public schools. Works Cited Bodine,A.. aâ‚ ¬? School uniforms, academic achievement, and uses of researchaâ‚ ¬?. The Journal ofEducational Research 19 Feb. 2008: 67-73. Print. King, K. A. Should school uniforms be mandated in elementary school?. 2010: 3+. Print. Romero, E. aâ‚ ¬? School uniform countdownaâ‚ ¬?. Daily News Record, 16 Aug. 1999, C2+. Print. Williams, D. aâ‚ ¬? School uniforms: The raging debateaâ‚ ¬?. n. d. Web. 5 Aug. 2011.