The Republican Party Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Republican Party - Research Paper Example The party dominated in almost every Northern state (Root & Hay 23). In the elections of 1860, the Republican Party emerged victoriously and dominated the course of politics until 1932, when the leader of the party was not capable of reversing the Great Depression. Republicans won the elections back from the Democrats in the 1960’s. From 1968-2004, the Republican Party emerged victorious in seven out of ten presidential elections. The Republicans supported the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which provided that; all individuals in the U.S. should be treated as citizens without creating discrimination on the basis of color, race or any condition existing before. The Old Republican Party Since its formation, in 1854, the Republican Party has supported and opposed various issues affecting the citizens and the economy of the United States. Traditionally, the party emerged to support issues such as laissez-faire capitalism, conservative social policies, and low tax policies. It was under the old Republican Party that the Civil Right Act of 1866 was passed. During the formation of the Republican Party in 1854, the chief agenda was to abolish the extension of slavery, which had increased during the time. The Republicans were against the Nebraska Act, which promoted slavery. ... The old Republicans supported the establishment and development of educational institutions; this is depicted by the support of the Land-Grant College Act, which led to the foundation of education centers throughout the country (Schwengel 90). This can also be seen with the establishment of Howard University, in 1867, by the Republicans. In addition, the old Republicans cared about the security of the citizens and established Buffalo soldiers. In addition, the Republicans opposed the legalization of the Ku Klux Klan, which was an outlawed group. The Modern Republican Party The Modern Republican Party, just like the old Republican Party, has faced several issues, some of which it has opposed and supported. The signing of the New Deal faced the Republicans’ opposition. The Republicans likened the New Deal to the promotion of socialism by the Democrats (Johnson & Smith 76). Later, the Republican Party split into two portions; with one division opposing the New Deal from its start to the end, and the other division partly supporting the New and promising to operate it efficiently. Although the modern Republicans split into two classes, which brought in a class of moderate Republicans, the Republican Party has continued to offer support for the establishment and development of tertiary education centers. They also advocate for the improvement of infrastructure and promote human security. During the Civil Rights Act of 1964, segregation was outlawed through a court order and Democrats took the opportunity to bring in a less educated electorate, which supported segregation (Westwood 38). This favored the Democratic Party at the expense of the Republican Party. The moderate Republicans supported the move while the liberal did not.  Ã‚  

Reveal or Conceal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Reveal or Conceal - Essay Example In this, it is important for Sujit to explain to his senior the actual state of affair in the organization. By concealing his emotion, he will just be adjourning the problem and it may turn back on him in the future. It is imperative to note that the back stops at him in case the workers decided to have another course of action such as court redress or even organizing a worker’s strike. This is the best course of action because he will have discharged his responsibility as a manager. In this case, Gillies, (2004) advises that the effects of failing to report the problem would be more severe that when the problem is reported. In my opinion, Sujit would act in contempt by failing to discharge his duties and as such he would lay enough ground for termination. For the language appropriate in this scenario, Sujit would describe the problem in such a way that it reflects potentially good performance for the organization. In this case, he would inform the managers that workers would have better output if their welfare is checked. In addition, he should present a solution that is in line with the organization’s goals, Bar, Alpa

Rationale And Background Of The Study English Language Essay

Rationale And Background Of The Study English Language Essay Reading is indispensable if a person wanted to live comfortably in the modern society. It is the golden path in going to the world of enlightenment and enjoyment (Monuz, 2000). Reading is the activity characterized by the translation of symbols or letters in the words and sentences that have meaning to the individuals. The ultimate goal of reading is to be able to understand written materials to evaluate it, and to used it for ones needs (Paculanan 1999). Reading is consider as the most important subject in the curriculum, because its mastery depends on the learning of nearly to all other subjects. On account of this reality, Filipino educators have in countless instruction channeled their effort towards developing strategies and approaches in the teaching of reading (Tamundong 1998) Reading requires more than mechanical skills. As a tool for learning in the content subjects, the learners has to demonstrate growing ability to handle information effectively. In this area of complex skills are efficient location, selection organization, and retention of information and the ability to gain knowledge from the printed page depending on the learners that equipped with the necessary skills in reading. A persons reading abilities has a help to read facts about the varied and rich factual information and verbal knowledge accumulated through the ages and that of maturity, organizes these actual information and verbal knowledge, process, and interprets them through experiences to form concepts and principles which are essential in solving problems and in developing creative thinking. Paterno (1985), enumerated various factors in the disabilities or weaknesses of reading. This may range from defective hearing or maladjustments in school, to brain damage. Paterno added that some of the specific causes of reading disability, how ever, may cause by a combinations of several factors. The most common: (1) Physical Factors like defective hearing, speech, vision, inadequate nutrition, neurological dysfunction: (2) Educational factors- children have unique learning patterns and: (3) Environmental factors- not all learning takes place in a classroom and their environmental determines to a great extend, the Childs success in learning to read. To minimize if not to solve permanently the problems on reading, two objectives of education as stated in the educational act of 1982 are word mentioning. This are: (1) To provide the knowledge and develop skills, attitudes and values essential to personal development and nece4ssary for living in and contributing to a developing and changing social milieu, and (2) To provide learning experiences which increase the childs awareness of the responsiveness to the changes in and just demands of society, and to prepare for constructive and effective involvement (MEC Journal, 1991), Educational Act of 1982. Conceptual Framework Reading is one of the most needed skills to be learned in school. Seemingly, read is a word that always heard, yet difficult to discern. Reading scholars have not really come out with on universal definition of it. They only describe the characteristics of reading. Munoz (2000) describes reading as a two-way complex active process, which uses a high level of thinking skills such as literal (reading the lines), inferential (reading the lines) and critical (reading beyond the lines). However, comprehension is preceded by recognition of words, thus one can not really comprehend if he can not recognize the words correctly. Therefore in this study, the researchers want to find out the level of reading performance of the pupils in terms of word recognition. INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT Descriptive research design using observation checklist. Oral reading performance of Grade II and Grade IV pupils. Determination of the reading performance of the Grade III and Grade IV pupils in terms of word recognition. Figure 1. Research Paradigm Table shows the input, process and the output variables used in this study. The input represents the oral reading performance of the respondents. The process is the tool used for data gathering and instrumentation in order to gather pertinent data needed for analyzing, tabulation and interpretation of the problem which includes the use of observation checklist arrive at the expected outputs which is the determination of the level of reading performance of the respondents in terms of word recognition. Statement of the problem The study seeks to find out the reading performance of the grade III and grade IV pupils of Bolosan Elementary School in terms of word recognition. It specifically sought to answer the following question: 1. What is the level of reading performance in terms of recognition of the: A.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Grade III pupils B.  Ã‚  Ã‚   Grade IV pupils 2. Is there a significant difference between the level of reading performance of Grade III and Grade IV pupils in terms of word recognition. Hypothesis of the Study There is no significant difference between the level of reading performance of Grade III and Grade IV pupils in terms of word recognition. Significance of the Study Within the recent years, the demands for effective reading among pupils as an applicable instrument in development have become more prominent that always. Teachers and parents are in conformity on this scrupulous need. Conceptually, the study bring light to the student/pupils as a necessity in a more successful academic work. The result of the study are learned to benefit the following. Parents The results of the study serve as bases for the effective and efficient involvement of parents in the learning of their children especially with regards to reading. Pupils The pupils are the direct beneficiaries of the study. They will be benefited much from better school leading program, teachers guidance, parents assistance and other activities in the school, home, school administrators can offer them and also for them to know their reading abilities. Teacher The results of the study serve as an assessment and or diagnosis of reading ability of the pupil. From this the teacher would be able to designed effective reading classroom program for the pupil. School Administrators The result of the study may be used as reference guide for educational planning and policy formulation in the instruction level. Lastly, the result of this study may serve as a reference in determining the reading levels of the pupils which can serve as information in making more plans and programs by higher authorities based on the findings. It will also help in preparing reading materials based on needs and difficult5ies of the pupils. Scope and Delimitation of the Study The study is delimited to determine the level of reading performance of the respondents in terms of word recognition. The respondent of the study is composed of 41 grade III and 45 grade IV pupils. Reading comprehension is not included in the study. The study was started from July 2006. Definition of Terms Accuracy. Relates to the quality of a result and distinguished from processing, which relates to the quality of the operation by which the result is obtained. Effectiveness. Degree to which an activity or initiative is successful in achieving specified goal; Degree to which activities of a unit achieve the units mission or goal. Efficacy. Is the ability to produced an effect, usually a specifically desire defect Frustration. The pupils shows withdrawal from reading situations by crying or refusing to read. The pupils commit errors in reading such as reversal, repetition, substitution, insertion, mispronunciation and inability to interpret punctuation. Independent. The pupil is free from tension, finger pointing or lip movement. He reads with rhythm and with conversational tone and interprets punctuations correctly. Instructional. The pupils oral reading is rhythmical with conversational tone and correct interpretation. Non-reader. A pupil is unable to recognize and sound out letter sound connections for single consonants or unable to blend them. Phil IRI. Philippine Informal Reading Inventory which is a set of oral reading passages for the elementary grades in order to get the reading level og the public elementary school pupils. Reading ability. Is the awareness of print relationship to speech, text structure, phonological awareness and letter naming and writing and comprehension of reading material? It often measured by grade level. Word recognition. It refers to the ability of the pupils to recognize the words with correct pronunciation. Chapter II Review of Related Literature This chapter presents several studies concerning reading abilities and reading comprehension. However, such reviewed studies are related to the presents study in the sense that they all aimed to know about the study were the factors that affect the reading ability of grade 3 pupils. These related studies therefore, are discussed briefly in this chapter. Several program about reading as an active, meaningful, and constructive process. Before reading activities are used to build or activate relevant background knowledge, concepts, and vocabulary. Students are taught to monitor their reading to ensure that what they are reading makes sense. They are taught strategies for correcting word recognition errors that detract from meaning, and they are given opportunities for reacting and responding to selection they have read. The texts they are asked to read for enjoyment and for information. Other activities are developed within a framework of reading for meaning. Because reading for meaning is the constants point of reference and because students in these programs need substantial help in building word identification skills, the amount of time spent in discussing selection and in teacher questioning about the selection is kept to a minimum. All of the successful programs offer students special instruction on a daily basis for period ranging from 20 to 45 minutes. Daily contact with students ensures that progress is the steady and allows teachers to become very familiar with students and their strength and needs. Frequent contacts also allows teacher to reinforce and extend strategic behaviors that students are acquiring. An instructional period of at least 20 to 30 minutes allows time for instruction and practice along a number of dimension that provide students with the strategies they need to become effective readers. The prevailing philosophy in most of the other early interventions programs appears to be that first grade is the point where special help should be offered to prevent reading failure; that many, if not most, students will, by the end of first grade, be able to make sufficient progress in reading to function in a regular classroom setting without special help; but that some students will continue to need support through second grade. Though some of the programs began as just first grade programs, most now continue through second grade for students who need longer periods of special help. These programs use methods and materials that help students to recognize words accurately and rapidly, and to group words into meaningful phrases the three dimensions of fluency. The courage to reread a book several times once it has been introduced. There is evidence that the repeated reading of a texts leads to improved word identification skills and comprehension ( Adams, 1995). As children move through these programs, they become familiar with an increasing number of texts. They are encouraged to reread these texts to gain additional practice, to extend their fluency, and to build confidence in their growing reading competency. To avoid failure or frustration for students, each new book is introduced with as much as a teacher judges is needed. For example, a pictures walk is often used as a before reading activity. Students are asked to speculate about the texts contents, and unusual or difficult vocabulary is pointed out by the teacher and discussed. Thus, the student begins rea ding the book with prior knowledge and clear expectations about the selections contents. Another frequently used technique is shared reading, in which the texts is read first by the teacher as students follow along in the texts. Then as a group, students progress to reading the texts with the help as needed. Teacher support is gradually withdrawn, and students assume more responsibility. Finally, individual children practice reading the text. Instruction often moves from a shared reading model to guided reading in which students assume responsibility for the first reading of a selection after the teacher helps prepare them and supports them during their reading. In all the successful intervention programs there is a clear progression from much teacher support in the initial phases of the program to increase students independence. The types of texts most frequently used in early intervention program are predictable texts. The earliest books used in the programs tend to have a close match between pictures and texts, have recurring language patterns, and include repetition of language elements, which make them easy for students to read. Even children with very restricted word recognition capabilities quickly begin to think of themselves as readers because they are successful with these profitable texts. As students progress in the program, the degree of predictability decreases to ensure that the students attend to the printed texts in order to build a multifaceted word recognition strategy that will make them increasingly independent readers. In the initial phases of instruction, selections also tend to be short so that students can finish a text within an instructional period. As their reading capabilities grow, texts become longer and more challenging. While one of the successful program use traditional, narrow measures of readability, all sequence of the instructional materials, based on many factors including text predictability (reflected in factors such as recurring language patterns, close picture to text match, repetition of words), length of text, challenge of vocabulary, complexity of language, sophistication of concept so that students are challenged to apply the strategies and skills they are learning. Reading new text, and rereading familiar text insure that student in this programs engage in meaningful, connected reading. This program also includes activities that help students focus on and become familiar wit printed words. For example, the Winston-Salem Project uses a procedure called Making Words (Baker L. Brown A.L,1999). Students are presented with the letters that form a word from a selection they read. Words are selected because of their interest and because they contain words identification elements that will be useful for the students It has been recognized that asking students to write words (not copy) is a very effective approach in developing word recognition and reading skill (Adams, 1999;Clay, 1996). For example in the early intervention in reading program, the students select a student to write sentences. The teacher then encourages each students to think about the styling of each word and to write as much of the word as they can. Teacher support his offer only as needed in order to insure that the students write the word accurately. For example, for the children who are having difficulty with phonemic awareness, the teacher draws a box for each sound in the word. The children are guided to think about the number of sound in a word and the letters that represent those sound. For example, the teacher would draw 3 boxes for the word teach, grouping the EA and CH in separate boxes since that word EA and CH represents single sound. The following are regular pattern to he scheduled for better reading. Reading familiar texts. Reading or rereading a new book Working with words Writing words or sentences The researchers therefore want to find out what are the common factors affecting the reading performance of a child, thus, the study. Chapter III RESEARCH METHODOLOGY This chapter presents the procedure utilized in the collection of data, the method employed in the presentation and interpretation to answer the problems presented in Chapter I. Research Design This study utilized the descriptive method of research. Descriptive because it seeks to investigate prevailing conditions about the level of reading performance of the respondents in terms of word recognition. (Adanza, 2002). Sources of Data Table 1 Frequency and Percentage Distribution of the Respondents in Terms of Grade Level and Section Grade Section Frequency Percentage Grade III-B 41 47.67% Grade IV-B 45 52.33% Table 1 presents the respondents of the study which is composed of 41 grade III pupils belonging to section B and 45 pupils in Grade IV also in section B. This so because Grade III and IV are the middle grades in elementary and both section B for it is on the average position thus, they are better representatives for the study. Instrumentation and Data Collection The researcher adopted the Phil IRI oral reading test of the Bureau of Elementary Education SY 2006-2007. After asking permission from the principal, the researchers administered testing with the help of the teachers. The researchers adopted the Phil IRI oral reading test formula for finding the level of reading performance in terms of word recognition. Tools for Data Analysis The researchers used frequency and percentage counts for the presentation of data and the chi-square to test the hypothesis of the study. The formula for finding the level of reading performance in terms of word recognition which is adopted from the Phil IRI oral reading test is: Percent of miscue= No. of major miscue x 100 No. of words WR = 100% percent of miscue Where: No. of major miscue number of words that are not recognized or pronounced right. WR Level of word recognition For the percentage distribution, the formula used is: P = f/N x 100 Where: P Percentage f frequency N total number of cases or respondents For sub problem number 2, the researchers used the chi-square-goodness-of-fit test, that is: X2 = à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ(O-E)2 E Where: X2 = Chi-Square O = Observed Frequency E = Expected Frequency Chapter IV RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS This chapter presents and discusses the results of the study to answer the problems in chapter I Table 2 Frequency and Percentage Distribution of the Grade III pupils in Terms of Level of Word Recognition Level Frequency Percentage Independent 0 0% Instructional 17 41.46% Frustration 19 46.34% Nonreader 5 12.2% Total 41 100% The table shows that nobody is considered as independent reader. There are 17 (41.46%) who are under instructional, 19 (46.34%) under frustration and 5 (12.2%) under none-reader. Table 3 Frequency and Percentage Distribution of the Grade IV pupils in Terms of Level of Word Recognition Level Frequency Percentage Independent 0 0% Instructional 8 17.78% Frustration 35 77.78% Nonreader 2 4.44% Total 45 100% It is visible in the table that nobody also from the grade IV pupils is under independent category. Also showed that 8 (17.78%) are under instructional, 35 (77.78%) are lined at frustration category and 2 (4.44%) under none-reader type. Table 4 Frequency Distribution of the Respondents according to the Level of Reading Performance in Terms of Word Recognition With their corresponding Grade Levels Level Grade level Independent and Instructional Frustration and Non-reader Total Grade III 17 24 41 Grade IV 8 37 45 Total 25 61 86 Table 4 shows variation of the level of word recognition among the respondents. Table 5 Computation of the ChiSquare O E O-E (O-E)2 (O-E)2/E 17 11.92 5.08 25.81 2.1653 8 13.08 -5.08 25.81 1.9732 24 29.08 5.08 25.81 0.8876 37 31.92 -5.08 25.81 0.8086 à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ (O-E)2/E 5.8347 Where: at df = 1, the level of O Observed frequency significance at „ƒ = 0.05 E Expected frequency is 3.841 (Walpole, 1982) df = 1 „ƒ = 0.05 From the table 4, at 1 degree of freedom, the tabular value of chi-square at „ƒ = 0.05 is 3.841. Since, the tabular value is lesser than the computed value which is 5.8347, the hypothesis is rejected. Thus, there is a significant difference between the level of reading performance of Grade III and Grade IV pupils in terms of word recognition Chapter V SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION This chapter presents the summary, conclusion and the recommendations of the researchers based on the study. Summary The study was pursued to find out the level of reading performance of the grade III and grade IV pupils of Bolosan Elementary School in terms of word recognition. It sought to determine also whether there is significant difference between the two grade levels in terms or reading performance with regards to word recognition. The study used the descriptive method using checklist for the actual reading performance. This research was conducted from June to December 2006. Findings The researchers found out that 17 or 41.46% grade III pupils are under instructional or are rhythmical reader with conversational tone and correct interpretation. There are also 19 or 46.34% who shows withdrawal from reading situations by crying or refusing to read and committing errors. On the other hand, 8 or 17.78% of the grade IV are under instructional type, 35 or 77.78% are considered under frustration type while 2 or 4.44% are non-readers and lastly, nobody also is under independent type of reader. The bottom line is, it was found out that there is significant difference between the grade III and grade IV pupils in terms of level of reading performance with regards to word recognition. Conclusion Based from the analyzed data presented, the researchers concluded that grade III and grade IV pupils level of reading performance in terms of word recognition is mostly on the bracket of frustration and instructional type of readers, that is they show withdrawal from reading situations by crying or refusing to read and committing errors in reading such as reversal, repetition, substitution, insertion, mispronunciation and inability to interpret punctuation but others are rhythmical with conversational tone and correct interpretation. Recommendation From the findings of the study, the researchers recommend the following: Having been revealed that the level of reading performance of the grade III and grade IV pupils in terms of word recognition falls under the frustration and instructional type, the researchers recommend teachers to use more intensified instruction for the betterment of the reading performance of the pupils. The researchers also wish that future researchers will focus also on reading performances of the pupils in other aspects such as comprehension, speed and others.

Preserving Our Earth :: essays research papers

Preserving Our Earth   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  America's endangered areas are deplinishing daily. Natural disasters are a major factor in their disappearance, but the most prominent factor is mankind. Even though procedures are conducted daily to preserve our home, these areas slowly crumble within our grasps. Protection of these areas is essential, as our whole race depends upon resources derived from these lands.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  From the lush greenery to the sparkling blue waters, all is majestic in its fullest. This is why I believe almost all of these wonderful places should be preserved. Mankind has come too far to throw it all away for his greedy purposes. Many believe that our secluded wildlife areas should be available for the public. But what is to be offered through this? Many recreational activities I presume, but what about our biggest environmental concern - pollution.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Pollution is so widespread throughout our world that it is overwhelming. Drinking water supplies are contaminated with runoff from nearby factories and even with pollutants from our own backyards. Demands of skyscrapers and condominiums wipe out our decreasing rainforests. This drudges wildlife from its natural home and into the havoc that is ours. Millions of acres of beautiful land are destroyed daily to satisfy the needs of mankind.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  But has anyone contemplated the needs of our wildlife? When their homes are incinerated, where do they run for shelter? Where will wildlife obtain its food and oxygen if the sources are gone? Not much is done about our destructive ways, we sit back and let money and greed take power. The solution is just a whisper away. The preserved areas should remain untouched. Hunting should be outlawed in these protected lands. If a family is starving and has to resort to this brutal deed, then restricted areas should be permitted.

Teamwork

What does it mean to be a successful team? Over the past year, I watched my mother fight one of the hardest battles in the world. My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, and even the best team of doctors could not cure her. The day she died, she went to my basketball game in the morning, and she died later that afternoon. The lesson I learned is that even if you give it your all, sometimes you don’t always achieve your goal and win. My mother always wanted me to go to an NBA game. I have been a Wizards fan my whole life and have never been to a game.I am always observing how the best teams perform. I think the Wizards are a great team that love the game and respect each other, and that is what you need to be a successful team. For example, the more you trust your teammates, the more likely it is the team will achieve its goal. A team must work together to achieve a goal, but sometimes even the best teams don’t win. John Wall is one of my biggest idols. He trusts and respects his teammates, plays with speed and precision, and even when he loses, he is always respectful.If I could see him play, it would be a dream come true. Runner up: It’s about working together By Zoe Cachion, 11, Arlington Teamwork is helping people out when they need it, and working together. You win as a team, and you lose as a team, You need to have empathy for other people on your team, Teams and teamwork are not just sports and other competitions. Teamwork is about . .?. trust, loyalty, confidence and perseverance. Success in your team is not really winning every single game. It’s more about working together with your teammates.Sure, it feels fantastic to win, but it feels even better when you know everybody in the team worked hard to get that win. That’s what success in teamwork means to me. Runner up: The ‘ubuntu’ approach By Dan Huynh, 12, Falls Church Before each of their games, the successful Boston Celtics yell the Africa n word â€Å"ubuntu,† which inspires the team to focus on the greater good rather than individual success. A successful team’s players don’t care about only their stats, All-star appearances, salary or winning championships.Positive teammates focus on the people they play with every day and how they can help their peers improve. An ubuntu-type player will pass on opportunities to others. For example, the Washington Wizards show that their team is focusing on the greater good because, as Kevin Seraphin said, â€Å"we play like a team. Nobody is selfish. Nobody wants to be the hero. Every night, you let somebody else shine. † This attitude makes their team successful. Ubuntu does not only apply to professional sports; it pertains to amateur sports also.For example, my aquatics coach told our team that during a water polo game, one of his players had the opportunity to get a hat trick. However, instead of shooting himself, he pump-faked and passed to his ope n teammate, who scored. This team was successful because its players shared opportunities rather than focused on themselves. When a team works together, teammates are able to help one another overcome obstacles and improve both as individuals and as a team. As the ubuntu philosophy states, â€Å"I am what I am because of who we all are. †

Modern Family Essay

In ‘Modern Family’s’ episode 15 of season 1 a number of societal norms are addressed, some of which challenged others reinforced. Norms such as the ones relating to gay couples with children, typical teenagers, and extended families, in other words the rich older man with the young â€Å"hot† wife and step kid. Modern Family as by its name offers us a more modern view of family in today’s society. The premise of Modern Family is a mock documentary-style sitcom fabricated around three very different families that all share kinship: a gay couple, who’ve just adopted a baby daughter from Vietnam; a husband and wife with three kids; and a May-December marriage between an older man and a woman who has a son from a prior marriage. This particular episode is based around Valentine ’s Day and follows three different stories of Jay and Gloria, Cam and Mitchel, and of course, Phil and Claire. Claire and Phil plan a Valentine’s Day excursion which leads them to role playing at a hotel, while Jay and takes Gloria to a David Brenner show where Jay gets picked on for being an older husband and is mistaken for Gloria’s father, and oh yeah! He also bought her diamond earrings with this fat wallet. Cam and Mitchel however decide to say at home since Mitchel has had a long day at work but the two of them are able to help out a much desperate Manny (Gloria’s kid) with a crush of his own. One of society’s biggest norms is the conflict of marriage and the age at which one is expected to be married and his/her partners age. As shown in Modern Family Jay is significantly older than Gloria who is your typical trophy wife. The show clearly challenges the accepted norm of marriage and how we as a society have come to accept the so called ‘limitations’, (i. e. age), of marriage. Episode 15 illustrates in a scene where Jay takes Gloria to a comedy show featuring David Brenner (who is from Jay’s generation) for Valentine’s Day, however she wants to go salsa dancing. Once there David Brenner mistakes Jay for Gloria’s father and pick on him for being an older husband. The show clearly challenges the accepted norm of a traditional family/marriage and displays the May-December marriage as an accepted view of the modern family. It also shows how Jay is not the ‘classic husband’ due to his age difference. As this norm is being presented, the same norm is being challenged in a different way. Earlier in the episode Jays is shown to give Gloria a diamond earring which demonstrations that Jay is a typical husband, one who is expected to buy his wife diamonds earrings, necklaces, etc. Through this example, Jay demonstrates the traits that are exhibited in the ‘classic husband’. In today’s society the issue of gay marriage is a delicate one, where gay marriage is becoming more and more accepted in society but is still illegal in some states of the U. S. An even bigger issue lies with same-sex couples adopting babies, which is clearly not yet fully accepted by society and is not an image that forms when a picture of a typical family is cast. These norms are tested when the show follows the story of Cam and Mitchel (Jays Son) on Valentine’s Day. Cam and Mitchel are a gay married couple, who decide to stay at home for Valentine’s Day. In Modern Family, Mitchel is not shows as a typical gay man instead he’s busy with his work and wearing shirts without any flowers or patterns, does not act like the norm gay man. While Cam on the other hand is a very prototypical gay man, always wearing colorful shirts with patterns, dressing up Lilly (Cam/Mitchel adopted daughter) in costumes for Valentine’s Day. These two characters are quite unlike one another where one reinforces the typical gay man, the other see to challenge the typical gay man. The couple also has an adopted Vietnamese daughter, again challenging the norm in society of a traditional family. Cam and Mitchel while staying at home agree to babysit Manny who is upset over a girl who he has written a poem to, hoping it would impress her. Manny, unlike other kids who hang-out with their friends and ride their bikes, writes poems and is not the least bit self-conscious. He is very mature and intuitive for his age and is often shown doing adult-like things, such as writing poems, challenging the norm of a usual 13 year old kid. Fathers in past years have been considered to be stricter on their kids, teaching them discipline and to focus on school. Phil however does not follow that same norm, instead he try’s very hard even in fact goes out of his way to be a â€Å"funny† dad/husband. Challenging the societal norm of what is known as a typical father. Claire conversely is a very common stay at home, minivan driving house wife who looks after the kids. She reinforced the utmost ideological norms of what a middle class house wife should be like. Talking care of the kids and being a loving mother. Claire and Phil like a normal couple exchange only cards and go to a restaurant on Valentine’s Day which is what they’ve been doing for years. However this all changes when the couple decides to go role playing at a hotel. The two meet at the hotel bar and he â€Å"picks her up†, she then goes to the bathroom and comes back wearing her coat with no clothes underneath. As they prepare to go upstairs she gets her coat stuck in the escalator, which she cannot take off. The circumstances turn worse when they begin running into different acquaintances from work and school, all of whom recommend that she take the coat off. These sequences of event illustrate how much distinct Clair and Phil are from a classical couple, challenging the norm of the traditional couple. The norm for a 13 year old boy is quite simple, a goofy, mischievous, and fun-loving boy who is not very bright. This norm is supported in Modern Family through Luke (Clair’s son). As the episode begins Phil and Luke come running into the house laughing over something they call a water weasel, a water pipe attached to a nerf ball. Luke is the standard of a typical 13 year old. Phil however is not 13 yet acts like one at times, further challenging his norm of a typical â€Å"Dad†. The norm for the young teenage daughter has changed completely over the past decades, now the norm for a teenage girl is almost expected her to be rebellious, wild and care free. A norm which Haley (Clair’s daughter) most definitely reinforces. As illustrated in this episode Haley’s boyfriend Dylan give Haley a picture portrait of Haley and himself half-naked in bed, which of course terrifies her mom and she takes it away. Haley patently reinforces the norm of a typical modern day teenager. In conclusion, the norms presented in Modern Family are mostly challenged to that of a typical nuclear family as an ideal, but yet in some instances as in the case of Haley and Claire the norms of the young teenage daughter and the stay at home house wife are confirmed. The show does need a balance of both, to reinforce norms and challenge them to become a successful comedy. Most of the norms that are challenged are all done in a fun-making manner. The show for the most part encourages the viewer to work for or at least echo on the need for change in society. The episode mostly challenges thoughts of consumption and view’s the show’s audience as citizens not consumerist. Modern Family without a doubt offers us a look into what in today’s society is viewed as a â€Å"Modern family†.

Management Theory Interview essays

Management Theory Interview essays The Microsoft Corporation is widely recognized as one of leaders of corporate success world-wide. In addition, within the industry, the managerial style of its huge pool of managers is widely considered to be as In interviewing Ibrahim, a Test Manager located at Microsoft's Redmond, Washington campus, I had the opportunity to note his management style, and draw many parallels to contemporary management theory. Ibrahim currently oversees twelve "test leads," who, in turn, oversee a pool forty-seven testers for the Microsoft Office product. He was asked to answer several of the following questions: 1. What is your management philosophy' How do you motivate your "I never really thought about it. I guess my management philosophy is a kind of "light touch" approach. I believe that for an employee to be really productive, they have to have a sense of "ownership" of the area that they are responsible foreither in overseeing the employees of a particular test area, or in the actual testing of the product. I find that giving them actual responsibility both bolsters their willingness to dedicate themselves to the task, as well as motivates them to perform based on the worry of being held personally responsible for their oversights at review time." 2. How do you feel about correcting employees' "That depends on what you mean by correcting employees. In my daily work one of the most important tasks is "guiding" my employees when they are experiencing difficulties. Unfortunately, although team employees are encouraged to "own" their work, there are times when tasks are, either not preformed, or not completed satisfactorily. It is ...

mechatronics essays

mechatronics essays The topic of mechatronics is a very new and emerging aspect of engineering. It originated from the Japanese company Yaskawa in 1969. Since the phrase mechatronics was originally coined in Japan the idea has expanded worldwide. The definition of mechatronics varies somewhat from place to place but the general idea remains the same. Mechatronics is the synergistic combination of precision mechanical engineering, electronic control and systems thinking in the design of products and manufacturing processes. As the world moves forward we continue to look for new ways of improving and enhancing the lifestyles of people through new innovations and production techniques. The continued advancement in technology is creating a growing demand for engineers to become more diverse in their disciplines of study. Traditional engineering is divided into many disciplines such as Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering. Mechatronics is then the integration of Computer , Electrical, and Mechanical engineering in the design of products and manufacturing processes. The Venn diagram below illustrates the connection between different disciplines of engineering. The profession of engineering will undergo tremendous change due in part from the new idea of mechatronics. No longer will people be able to specialize solely on computer electrical or mechanical engineering. The demand for engineers in the manufacturing sector who have interdisciplinary skills will continue to grow. Thus causing a need for engineers to incorporate multiple disciplines in their careers. Some of this evolution of engineering is already seen today. For example there has already been a progression towards automation and computer control of simple mechanical systems in many consumer products and the progression is even more evident in manufacturing of theses products. In the future artificial intelligence will be a part of everyday life. Many ...

Marketing Plans for Schools

Marketing Plans for Schools Many private institutions are finding that they need to engage in strong marketing tactics to thrive in todays increasingly competitive market. That means more schools than ever are developing marketing plans to guide them, and for schools who dont already have strong strategies in place, it can be overwhelming to get started. Here are some tips to help you get on the right track.   Why Do I Need a Marketing Plan? Marketing plans are the roadmap to success for your office. They keep you on track so you can navigate your way through the year, and ideally next several years, without getting side-tracked. It helps remind you, and your community, of your end goals and how you’re going to get there, reducing the number of detours along the way. This is especially important for your admission office in recruiting students and for your development office in building alumni relationships and soliciting donations.   These guides help you set a plan by streamlining what you do and why you’re doing it. The why is a crucial part of your marketing, as it explains the reasoning for your actions. Validating important decisions with this â€Å"why† component is important for gaining support for the plan and ensuring that you continue to move forward with positive progress.   It’s so easy to find great inspiration at any time. But, even the greatest of ideas can derail your progress if they dont align with the messaging, goals and themes that you have for the year. Your marketing plan is what helps you reason with individuals who get excited about new ideas and remind them of the clear plan that was agreed upon going into the year. However, it’s important to still keep track of this great inspiration for future projects and plans! What Should My Marketing Plan Look Like? Do a quick Google search for marketing plan examples  and you get around 12 million results. Try another search, this time for marketing plans for schools  and you will find about 30 million results. Good luck sorting through all of those! It can be daunting to even consider creating a marketing plan, especially if you’re not sure what to do. They can be time-consuming and confusing. Jump down a bit to see recommendations for a shorter version of a marketing plan, but first, a formal marketing plan tends to be outlined as follows: Executive SummaryThe MissionDifferentiators/Value PropositionInstitutional VisionTarget AudienceSituation AnalysisInstitution, Customer, Competitor, Collaborator, ClimateSWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) AnalysisMarketing SegmentationSegment 1: Descriptions, sales reports, goals and outcomes, product usage, resource requirements, outreach plan, pricingSegment 2: Descriptions, sales reports, goals and outcomes, product usage, resource requirements, outreach plan, pricingSelected Marketing Strategies (Action Items)Why these strategies were chosen, including product, price, place, promotion, and  how they will be completed. Discuss decision variables: brand, quality, scope, warranty, packaging, price, discounts, bundling, payment terms, distribution challenges, logistics, motivating the channel, advertising, PR, budget, projected results.Alternative Marketing StrategiesThe strategies you aren’t planning to use, but were consideredShort Long Term ProjectionsG oals outcomes: The immediate effects of the proposed strategies, expected long-term results, and special actions required to achieve them. Analysis Strategies (How will you assess success)AppendixCalculations and data used to support the information above, reports from previous yearsIndustry reports and marketplace projections Its exhausted just reading that. It’s a lot of work to complete all these steps, and it often feels like the more time you spend on a marketing plan, the less you use it. You might try to get around this by finding another plan to work off of, but surprisingly, you probably never can find one that fits your needs. Why is that?   That’s because no two companies are the same, no two schools are the same; they all have different goals and needs. That’s why  the same marketing plan structure will not work for every school or company. Every organization needs something that works best for them, whatever it may be. Some experts believe that a marketing plan doesn’t have to follow an exact template or structure. So, you might want to change your perception of a marketing plan: forget about what you think it should be, and think about what you need it to be. What you  DO NOT need  out of your marketing plan: A long, complex, formal plan that addresses every problem that has ever surfaced at your school.A document that takes so long to create that you never finish it.A document that is so complex that its not a useful tool.Analysis for the sake of analysis What you  DO need  out of your marketing plan: Specific and realistic problems to solve.Achievable goals.An easily executable roadmap.Potential challenges and solutions.A way to track success. How do you develop a marketing plan? The first thing is to determine the institutional goals that are tasked to the marketing department. You can pull from a strategic plan or a marketing analysis to give you guidance.   Lets say your school needs to Improve Marketplace Position. How would you do this? Chances are, youll want to ensure that you have cohesive branding and messaging, and make sure that the entire school is in support of that messaging. Then, you will create focused publications and digital presence in support of that branding and messaging. You might find a more specific goal of increasing annual fund dollars for the development office, which is one way that the marketing office can be called upon to assist. Using these institutional goals, you can outline the various projects, goals, and action items for each department. It looks something like this for a fundraising example: CLIENT: Development OfficePROJECT: Annual FundGOALS: (3-4 main objectives for the year)Increase participation overall (# of donors)Increase donations (dollars raised)Increase online donations (dollars raised via online giving forms)Reconnect with alumniACTION ITEMS: (2-4 marketing methods to achieve the goals)Create a branded annual fund marketing programOverall MessagingDigital Strategy: Email marketing, giving form improvements, and social media outreachPrint Strategy: annual appeals, postcards, brochuresTalking Points: language that development officers can use to promote continuity of messaging. Lets look at an admission example now: CLIENT: Admission OfficePROJECT: Recruiting - increase inquiriesGOALS:Improve online user experience (make things easier to find)Increase the  number of new qualified leadsGenerate a new, expanded target audience (long-range goal)ACTION ITEMS:Redesign WebsiteEmail marketing strategySEO campaignInbound marketing strategy   Developing these mini-outlines helps you prioritize your goals and objectives for the year. It helps you keep your focus on the things that you can realistically accomplish in a given time period, and, as you saw in the admission goals, look at those goals that need more time to complete but need to get started now. You might actually have seven or eight goals for each department, but youll never get anything accomplished if you try to tackle everything at once. Pick the two-to-four things that either need the most urgent attention or will have the greatest impact on your outcomes. Just make sure you can realistically address the items in your given timeframe, which is often one academic year. Making these priorities is also helpful when you get those requests for small projects from departments other than your top clients. It gives you validity when you say, we cant accommodate this project right now, and explain why. It doesnt mean everyone will be happy with your response, but it helps you make it possible for them to understand your reasoning.   How will you carry out your marketing plan? The next step is to start thinking about the tools you have at your disposal and how youll use them. Think about marketing like giving someone a gift. The gift is the outcome of the marketing strategy: achieving your goals is the gift.The box is the tools youll use to carry out your strategy: email, social media, print, etc.The wrapping paper and bow is the concept youll use: the message and design Annual Fund Marketing Plan Case Study This is where you get to start having some fun. Brainstorm some ideas for how to tell your story. Check out this article on the Annual Fund Marketing Program created at Cheshire Academy that we called, One Word. One Gift. The strategy involved reconnecting with alumni by asking them to pick one word to describe their Cheshire Academy experience and then make one gift to the annual fund in honor of that word. It was such a success that the program helped us not only reach our goals  but also exceed them. The One Word. One Gift.  program even won two awards: the silver award for Annual Giving Programs in the CASE Excellence Awards for District I and another silver award in the 2016 CASE Circle of Excellence for Annual Giving Programs. For each of your clients (as we outlined above), you want to clearly illustrate your timeline, concept, and tools that you will use. The more you can explain why youre doing what youre doing, the better. Lets look at what this might look like for the Academys Development Annual Fund project: CONCEPT:  This branded Annual Fund endeavor combines print marketing with email, digital, and social media marketing, as well as development outreach to reconnect with current and past constituents. Designed to engage constituents in a two-part interaction with the school, this endeavor asks donors to remember what they love about Cheshire Academy by choosing one word to represent their experiences and to then make one gift to the annual fund in honor of that word. A particular emphasis will be made on encouraging online donations. A lot of hard work goes into developing these plans, which are unique to each institution. Guidelines are awesome to share, but your details are yours. That said, let me share a little more of my details than most ... The first thing I do is make sure I understand the institutional goals tasked to marketingI also make sure that I clearly outline and understand the institutional goals related to marketing. Meaning, I may not be the department directly charged with these, but my team and I will support them and work closely with them.I make sure I know which departments and goals are the highest marketing priorities for the year. Its helpful to have support from your head of school and other departments to agree with these determinations of priorities. Ive seen some schools go so far as to have signed contracts with key stakeholders to guarantee adherence to the priorities and directions.Then I work to outline  my timeline, concept, and tools for each of my top department priorities. This is important to avoid scope creep, getting off track from your intended projects. This is your reality check when people start getting lots of great ideas that may not align with the overall strategies. Not every great idea can be used at once, and its ok to say no to even the most amazing idea; just make sure you save it for later use. This is where you break down what youre doing, when, and through which channels.   I always make sure that I clearly explain why Ive developed the timeline and concept. Heres a glimpse into the print marketing strategy for my annual fund.  Share the complementary efforts youre planning to do, also. Some of these marketing initiatives dont need to be spelled out step by step, but a quick explanation of why can go a long way.Share your indicators of success for the aspects of your project. We knew we would assess the Annual Fund using these four quantitative factors.  Evaluate your success. After the first year of our annual fund marketing program, we assessed what worked well and what did not. It helped us look at our work and celebrate the things we nailed and figure out how to improve in other areas.

The Effect of Cloud Computing on Network Management Essay

The Effect of Cloud Computing on Network Management - Essay Example However, their network cannot become totally non-existent but has to optimally complement the Cloud Computing architecture. So, this paper will first look at the technology behind this Cloud Computing, then as part of literature review will focus on the requirements on Network Management to support Cloud Computing and the differences from the more normal management requirements. Then the paper will critically evaluate the strength and weaknesses of Cloud Computing, comparing to normal Network Management as defined by the ISO. Cloud computing, an Internet-dependant computer network, in which the ‘outside’ or ‘virtual’ servers or in total outside network infrastructure will play the key role, without the necessity to develop and maintain in-house infrastructure. The needed information or data, software, other business applications, etc can be stored in those servers and can be accessed by the organizations or computer users from any place using a web browser-based interface. This works on the basis of ‘services on demand’ concept, as organizations or users just pay the subscription charges, without owning any physical infrastructures. â€Å"The storing and accessing of applications and computer data often through a Web browser rather than running installed software on your personal computer or office server†. (cloudcomputingdefined.com).The basic concept behind Cloud Computing got originated in the 1960s when the American computer and cognitive scientist John Mc Carthy opined that â€Å"computation may someday be organized as a public utility†. (Frangulyan). This hypothesis came true because the main characteristic of Cloud Computing is computation is happening in a public or external environment. The complete Cloud architecture for the functioning of Cloud Computing consists of multiple cloud components particularly various hardware components and software.  

Corruption in Criminal Justice Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Corruption in Criminal Justice - Research Paper Example It amounts to white color crimes. In other words, allow the beneficiaries to take advantage through illegal gratification from those who are at the helm of affairs and enjoying the trustable status. The gratification with the intention to influence their action, views and opinions and cash their impartiality setting aside the merits in order to have some thing in terms of goods and services that relates to commercial interests. In the broader spectrum, the man or woman who is giving or receiving the bribes can be booked on the charge of bribery (Bribery and Corruption Law 2012). In accordance of American Laws, Bribery is considered as felony which is a punishable offence that attracts either fine or imprisonment or both provided the corruption implied or proven. However, a gift can not be treated as bribe unless there is an intention of receiver to gain some thing out of it is evident (Bribery and Corruption Law 2012). In nutshell, bribery can be classified as a) general bribery and b) commercial bribery. Therefore, bribery is closely associated with the extortion of money from those who expects competent authority to speed up / expedite their work lying with them (Bribery and Corruption Law 2012). ... In America doctors at government hospitals or working in privately managed hospitals as per FCPA law considered foreign officials. In the mentioned category employees of international organizations also fall within the purview of foreign officials. Bribery can be in the shape of cash or in kind with the intent to curry favor of decision makers who are enjoying the discretionary powers (Cassin 35-36). Further, companies who are on the panel of United States bourses are bound to meet the requirement of accounting provisions. According to which companies are responsible to keep books and records of every transaction that reflects true and fair transaction for audit purpose. It also requires from companies an adequate system of accounting and internal control should be in place to promote healthy practices. To comply with the requirement of FCPA, companies are taking additional measures for their image building and to protect their reputation in tact by employing vendor services of reput e for due diligence. The organizations working in the United States of America have to follow the requirement of FCPA. Therefore, the government owned organizations have no exception to it. They are also accountable for their misdeeds or lapses which lead to corruption and corrupt practices (Cassin 44). As far as the payments to foreign officials are concerned, the cited act draws a line between the bribery and the facilitation. It is allowable under FCPA although it violates the local laws. To grease the palms of officials with the aims to expedite their performance although as per the service rules and regulations he or she is bound to get it done. Paying to foreign officials as per

Gimme Shelter and the 1960s Counter Culture Term Paper

Gimme Shelter and the 1960s Counter Culture - Term Paper Example People make culture, and culture makes them. Through making culture, individual and collective identities are formed (Cushman, 1996, p. 7). The construction of cultural institutions reflect â€Å"commonsense beliefs about human behavior† (Bruner, 1990, p. 38) Take the case of the men playing in a hobby band. The descriptive terms that one uses for these men and their vocation, such as â€Å"playing†, â€Å"audience† and â€Å"instrument† are all cultural meanings, and these cultural meanings control how we act. An individual’s experiences and acts are shaped by his intentional states, and these states are †realized only through participation in the symbolic systems of culture† (Bruner, 1990, p. 33). It is only through cultural interpretations of one’s personal autobiography that this story becomes understandable. Through this cultural mediation, meaning becomes communal and public, as opposed to private. The difference between cul ture and biological inheritance is that the latter does not necessarily shape human experience and action, but, rather, constrains action in a modifiable way. Culture shapes the human mind and life by giving â€Å"meaning to action by situating its underlying intentional states in an interpretive system.† (Bruner, 1990, p. 34). ... 42). Culture externalizes internal feelings, states of consciousness and thoughts into concrete forms that are shared by individuals. These concrete forms, such as music, are viewed as cultural objects (Cushman, 1996, p. 90). How music functions in any culture depends on how that culture operates socially, and these circumstances vary between one culture and another. Listeners responds to popular music physically, by singing along, dancing, clapping, etc.; emotional, by feeling the music, reminiscing or romanticizing; and cognitive, by learning, stimulating thought, processing information, and framing perceptions, etc (Lull, 1987, p. 141). Related to the concepts of culture, as it relates to the dominant culture, are countercultures and taste culture. Counterculture is the result of engaging in alternative forms of communication among social actors who are collectively pursuing alternative ways of living (Cushman, 1996, p. 8). The base of knowledge amongst the social actors in the co unterculture runs counter to the dominant culture. Rock music counterculture means a group of individuals who are committed to disseminate rock music that is neither overtly nor covertly influenced by the dominant culture. Countercultures are often formed around music, due to music’s ability to communicate and mediate common experiences. For instance, the 1960s were marked by the Vietnam War, which gave birth to the activists and hippies, two examples of 1960's countercultures. The youth of those times, influenced by the Vietnam War and a general feeling of unrest, basically made war on their elders, and this was a world-wide phenomenon, even in the countries were Vietnam

Discuss the definition and the sources of christian theology and how Essay

Discuss the definition and the sources of christian theology and how is Systematic theology related to Biblical theology and Christian ethics - Essay Example ers to the knowledge of man about the supernatural, who is the creator, and this belief is fundamentally integrated into man’s constitution that, he is religious in every aspect (McGrath, 2011, pp. 21). Theology refers to the intellectual circle of religious constructs and observance. Religion refers to the spiritual experience of man and theology is the explanation or the rationale behind the experience (Gonzalez and Perez, 2002, pp. 89). Religion and theology are related in the same ways that astronomy is related to heavenly bodies, the human body and physiology and the earth and geology. In a similar manner, to the way the earth and the stars existed before humans had formulated knowledge and study about them, so were men intrinsically religious, prior to their formulation of theology (McGrath, 2001, pp. 12). Humans are instinctively religious, even without the need for reasoning religious issues out. It is not Christianity alone, but all other religions have their own theo logy. In the case of traditional religious systems, theology refers to the reasons underlying the religious actions of the fetish worshiper, irrespective of the fact that the actions may be crude (Gonzalez and Perez, 2002, pp. 90). This line of though demonstrates the intellectual aspect of the religious inclination of humans, irrespective of whether their theological practices are traditional or modern in nature. The major divisions of theological science include the exegetical, historical, the systematic and the practical divisions. Christian theology refers to the study that seeks to develop a coherent framework of Christian faith and practice. The constructs of Christian theology are primarily grounded on the writings of the bible teachings contained in the new and the Old Testament, together with traditional beliefs and the practices of the Old Testament (Gonzalez and Perez, 2002, pp. 18-19). Christian theologians use the rational analysis of bible teachings, biblical exogenesis, and

Film black gold written response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Film black gold written response - Essay Example The export revenue from coffee seems like a decent enough percentage but its actual significance is something else altogether. Export revenue of 70% in Ethiopia is very small, failing to reach any amount greater than the $500 million mark. However, the $500 million used to import the coffee from Ethiopia has been churned into billions when they arrive at the markets. From a casual look, one would expect the producers of coffee to be very rich and live in lavish conditions, filled with unfathomed and consistent prosperity. The contrary holds true, however. In Ethiopia, a kilogram of coffee goes for a paltry $1, where as in the importing markets, this same kilogram is used to make approximately 80 coffee cups which sell at an average total of $230. This shocking evaluation alone screams of an unpalatable equality, even if other things fail to reveal this fact of an undesirable difference in fortunes. The world coffee market is largely dominated by four principal multi-global enterprises. These are the Proctor and Gamble, Sara Lee, Nestle and Kraft. These enterprises buy their coffee at very low prices, yet in turn sell the same at very exorbitant prices. In the end, therefore, the margins for profits that they accrue if astoundingly high and incompatible with what they producers earn from this coffee trade (Black gold, 2006). In the world market, the second most actively traded commodity is coffee. The prices of coffee are determined by the NYCSCE (that is, the New York Coffee Sugar and Cocoa Exchange). Buyers and sellers are merely market price takers and have no power to decide on the trading prices of coffee. In as much as coffee is regarded in nature as a soft good, principally because it is meant for consumption, it is yet important and irreplaceable, with its essence noticeable through and through in the markets. Coffee has possession of its own market that controls prices, whereby these prices are normally adhered to by

Written Evaluation of the Research Articles Article

Written Evaluation of the Research Articles - Article Example In order to address all listed points, the author uses qualitative research. In the first part of the paper, Waldron implements such research method as literature review for the representation of existed studies regarding the main statement. During the second part of the study, the author uses data analysis and triangulation for showing research results to the readers. Waldron interviews twenty six participants via Skype, phone and e-mail offering carefully elaborated questionnaires. In addition, the author conducts face-to-face interviews with four teachers and analyzes online data through forum posts, digital videos and discussion platforms. The main subjects of descriptive analysis are two online music communities such as the Online Academy of Irish Traditional Music (OAIM) and the Banjo Hangout. The author represents detailed characteristics of both sites. Juxtaposing chosen subjects with each other, it has been found out that despite the fact that they have different ideological approaches of the work, the influence of user-generated content and Web 2.0 on both of them is practically the same. The research provided in the article is relevant and makes sense in the conditions of quickly developing technologies that currently we live in. The author chooses appropriate research methods and offers available for comprehension interpretations of study results so that it is easy to conclude that the statement and the purposes of research have been achieved. The article provides valuable findings asserting that participatory culture and such tools like YouTube do not substitute traditional music learning classes but mostly are used to supplement the study activities (Waldron, 2013). There are examples of teachers testimonials and tips that can be very useful for other tutors. Hence, all interviewed teachers stated that they had to modify their teaching approaches because of digital video usage. Their sharing of experience may

Film black gold written response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Film black gold written response - Essay Example The export revenue from coffee seems like a decent enough percentage but its actual significance is something else altogether. Export revenue of 70% in Ethiopia is very small, failing to reach any amount greater than the $500 million mark. However, the $500 million used to import the coffee from Ethiopia has been churned into billions when they arrive at the markets. From a casual look, one would expect the producers of coffee to be very rich and live in lavish conditions, filled with unfathomed and consistent prosperity. The contrary holds true, however. In Ethiopia, a kilogram of coffee goes for a paltry $1, where as in the importing markets, this same kilogram is used to make approximately 80 coffee cups which sell at an average total of $230. This shocking evaluation alone screams of an unpalatable equality, even if other things fail to reveal this fact of an undesirable difference in fortunes. The world coffee market is largely dominated by four principal multi-global enterprises. These are the Proctor and Gamble, Sara Lee, Nestle and Kraft. These enterprises buy their coffee at very low prices, yet in turn sell the same at very exorbitant prices. In the end, therefore, the margins for profits that they accrue if astoundingly high and incompatible with what they producers earn from this coffee trade (Black gold, 2006). In the world market, the second most actively traded commodity is coffee. The prices of coffee are determined by the NYCSCE (that is, the New York Coffee Sugar and Cocoa Exchange). Buyers and sellers are merely market price takers and have no power to decide on the trading prices of coffee. In as much as coffee is regarded in nature as a soft good, principally because it is meant for consumption, it is yet important and irreplaceable, with its essence noticeable through and through in the markets. Coffee has possession of its own market that controls prices, whereby these prices are normally adhered to by

The various stages in the development of warfare Essay Example for Free

The various stages in the development of warfare Essay Technology defines the strategic agenda of a nation at any given time; in particular, the concepts of war, crisis, terrorism and therefore military warfare. Military technology has allowed for Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles, Precision Guided Munitions, Long Range Theatre Nuclear Weapons, Ballistic Missile-Carrying Submarines and many more. New military concepts have arisen out from the advancement of military technology, for example arms races or Mutually Assured Destruction; all of these complex military terminologies were unheard of in the middle of the 19th century, therefore showing how drastic warfare has developed since then. As military warfare has an extremely strong influence on the state of international relations as it affects the balance of power and the polarity of the world, it is important to understand both why and how the wars that happen today have expanded. The industrial revolution in the middle of the 19th century brought about a fundamental transformation in military technology; gone were the cavalry wars with spears as weapons and castles as defence, in was the mass production of war machinery. Nearly every aspect of warfare changed, and has been advancing and increasing ever since. The firepower of guns and bombs evolved from 3/4 rounds per minute muzzle loading muskets to machine guns capable of firing 650 rounds per minute1; although first used in the 1883 American Civil War which led to 600,000 dead, machine guns were widely used in World War One and helped make 400,0002 British casualties in the Battle of the Somme. From the middle of the 20th century the focus moved to weapons of mass destruction, in particular nuclear weapons, where technology allowed for more range and accuracy, and ICBMs and PGMs are capable of wiping out whole towns. Due to this, war has extended from armies to ordinary civilians, therefore potentially increasing death tolls and creating more fear among inhabitants of a country at war as attacks can be secret. The mobility and transport of armies has also changed which has an effect on the development of warfare; the pre-mid 19th century wooden sail powered ships with cannons used during many of the British invasions of India, Australia and Africa proved impractical and from the 1870s onwards, iron steam powered battleships were built. This allowed for access to enemy lands by sea with a lower risk of being sunk, and so invasions became easier, for example the Boer War from 1899 to 1902. The industrial revolution of the mid 1800s created advanced railways so soldiers could be deployed rapidly; this increased the speed of wars from the traditional wars on foot, and prevented enemy stated from having time to prepare for war. The introduction of the motorcar in the beginning of the 20th century also helped the mobility of warfare, with army trucks being used in most of the wars since then; in addition, the invention of tanks and submarines combined strong defence with the ability to attack, therefore causing more damage with fewer home casualties. The development of aircraft since the mid 19th century has been extremely significant; the first victims of air war were Arab villagers in Libya during the Italian war on Turkey 1911-123, and although aircraft was used in World War One, the turning point of air warfare was the Second World War, where the Blitzkrieg strikes on British civilian towns by the German Luftwaffe created a new warfare that involved ordinary inhabitants. Similarly, in recent air strikes on Afghanistan and Iraq by technologically advanced fighter planes such as B-1 and B52 bombers have further increased the speed and devastation caused by war. Protection has also changed over the years, from impractical individual heavy metal armour used by armies before the mid 19th century to much more alternative methods of protection. In World War One, the use of trenches to protect soldiers proved ineffective, however the civilian attacks during the Second World War meant that new types of protection were introduced: air raid sirens, blackouts and gas masks from enemy air warfare. Technology in the late 20th century extended methods of protection to Electronic Counter Measures to locate enemy weapons even before they are deployed the ultimate method of protection. This would not have been possible without the advancement in artificial intelligence through sophisticated computers to perform operations such as detecting long-range missiles from satellite cameras. The advancement of military warfare is due to a number of things: the progression of science and development of human intelligence mainly as a result of better education and more of a desire to be all-knowing has created more effective and practical ideas for warfare. In addition, the influx capitalism after the industrial revolution has meant that the munitions industry has profit to be made, and as capitalism seems ever increasing the production of weapons has also amplified. Also, countries around the world have increased their defence spending budgets therefore more money is constantly being spent on inventing the best, most destructive, powerful weapons. This, along with the enlarged competition between states to have the most advanced technological warfare machinery has led to a number of disputes which set the agenda for international relations at the time. The Cold War between Russia and the United States from the middle of the 20th century until the collapse of the Soviet Union mainly consisted of an unofficial arms race: repeated, competitive and reciprocal adjustments of their war making capacities between two nations4, with both countries building up baroque arsenals of ICBMs and the most advanced nuclear bombs. Action-Reaction models such as the Cold War creates a security dilemma not just for those involved but for the whole world: An action by any state to increase its military strength will raise the level of threat seen by other states and cause them to react by increasing their own strength5. An example of this recently could be the nuclear proliferation of the nine states who presently have nuclear weapons; countries who dont have nuclear arms may feel threatened by those who do and wish to build up their arms, and so this potential horizontal proliferation would in turn make those who have arms build up theirs even more, creating increased vertical proliferation. Nuclear multi-polarity in the world is likely to be dangerous as there is more chance of rogue states using their weapons and creating more prolific, devastating wars. While many argue the move to nuclear warfare is better than outdated methods of warfare such as battles as it creates deterrence between states to use their weapons. This could be proven by the fact that since the invention of nuclear weapons in the middle of the 20th century there has been no nuclear wars; however the example of the United States atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 show how much devastation and horror they could cause. Also, the new threat of biological and chemical weapons has added to the potential threat of large-scale modern warfare that no longer involves a countrys army only; it seems like the world could potentially be moving into a second nuclear age. The progress between offensive and defensive warfare has also changed since the middle of the 19th century; however it seems to have followed a regular pattern. Pre 19th century cavalry wars were largely offensive wars, with attacks on foot and high casualties; the first World War consisted of mainly defence tactics like building extensive trenches; the second World War was again offensive, with air warfare bombing campaigns; the evolution of nuclear arms is largely as a defence mechanism, for example the concept of Mutually Assured Destruction; and recent wars such as the US attacks on Iraq and Afghanistan have been mostly offensive bombing campaigns. Another factor to consider of how warfare has changed is how the world is not entirely a multi-polar earth; recently, it seems like a potentially unstable combination of unifying centripetal and separating centrifugal forces struggling over the periphery. In addition, the threat of non state actors has also changed warfare; until recently, the enemy could be located in one state, however the main problem for western democracies in international relations today is the threat of terrorism, with the Al Quaida network appearing all over the world. This creates the problem of not knowing where to attack, and counties such as America attacking countries like Afghanistan just because they believe they were harbouring terrorists after the September the 11th attacks. It is likely that warfare technology will advance in the future despite the disarmament issue over the past few decades. While superpower countries like the United States continue with their arms building, refuse to ratify the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty or participate in talks regarding the Antiballistic Missile Treaty in June, and continue to own 95% of the 31,000-plus nuclear weapons along with Russia6, the Doomsday Clock might actually reach midnight. After World War One, Sir Edward Grey said that the horrors of the Great War would make it possible for states to find as least one common ground on which they should come together in confident understanding: an agreement that, in the disputes between them, war must be ruled out as a means of settlement that entails ruin7. Obviously, this idea seems much too idealistic when we look back at the technological advancements in warfare since World War One, which can maybe suggest that states will always dispute and technology will always adva nce the terrifying thought of a future super-war is very possible. BIBLIOGRAPHY Buzan, Barry, Strategic Studies: Military Technology and International Relations, London: Macmillan, 1987 Freedman, Lawrence, The Evolution of Nuclear Strategy, London: Macmillan, 1989 Goldstein, Joshua, International Relations, New York: Longman, 1999 Gray, Colin, The Second Nuclear Age, Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner, 1999 Waltz, Kenneth, Man, the State and War, New York: Colombia University Press, 1959 www.thebulletin.org 1 Buzan, Barry, Strategic Studies: Military Technology and International Relations, London: Macmillan, 1987 2 http://www.phoenixpress.co.uk/articles/events/somme-battle-of-pp.asp 3 Freedman, Lawrence, The Evolution of Nuclear Strategy, London: Macmillan, 1989, p4 4 Steiner, Barry, Arms Races, Diplomacy and Recurring Behaviour: Lessons from Two Cases, Beverly Hills: Sage, 1973 5 Rathjens, G. W., The Dynamics of the Arms Race, in Herbert York (ed.), Arms Control, San Francisco: Freeman, 1973 6 www.thebulletin.org 7 Grey, Edward, Twenty Five Years, New York: Frederick A Stokes Co., 1925, p285

Analysis Of A Prayer For Owen Meany English Literature Essay

Analysis Of A Prayer For Owen Meany English Literature Essay The economical/political social background of the story A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving had a huge impact on the characters and the plot of the story. John Irving  chose to write about Americas political state throughout the story to connect it to past tragic events which have occurred in the main characters life. His writing style makes us aware of his view on Americas society and he too, like the main character in this book moved from America to Canada. Owen Meany claimed himself to be the instrument of God. His parents told him he was a virgin death; could he be the baby Christ? John Irving presented Owen with characteristics which made him seem like he is not part of this world. Owen could have been a tragic hero.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Many unpleasant events occurred throughout Owens life even though he was a virtuous person. He died by saving the life of Vietnamese kids. This connects to Romeo and Juliet, because when they died, their death made the Capulets and Montagues stop the feud and it made them notice how it was stupid of them to keep the two apart and they started to settle their differences. Before Owen died, his family would hate the Catholics for an event which occurred in their families past history. However, Owen died helping a nun take children to the washroom and so everyone realized their hate for each other was nonsensical. The major knew Owen had been a hero (616). A tragic hero always has a huge impact on the characters and readers, and Owen changed everyones opinion about who he truly was. I guess we were wrong about your little friend (556). Owen motivated the rev to find his lost faith and now he spoke with belief and confidence at the funeral. Ow en was not just a hero to the United States Army- he was our hero (556). There was something about him that attracted everyone. Even Johns mother loved Owen just like her own son. Owen would never complain about others and he would just stay there and take in the pain which symbolized him as a martyr. When he saw a man on the streets, he would want to help him right away. WE SHOULD STOP AND HELP THAT MAN (25). He had qualities which most of us humans dont possess no matter how noble and devoted we are. He even played the baby Christ in a play and that compared him to one of Gods messengers. He would follow the holy book and always asked: Does it say so in the bible? (170). Owens strange small size and very high voice was a symbol as well. This demonstrated to us how he was not a normal human but something different. Owen never tried to change his voice, because he knew it was for a purpose and it came from God. He was represented as a leader. He also  controlled people older than him and he even demanded the Catholics  to sign petitions against themselves. He was not intimidated by the bigger boys because he had been smaller (228). Everyone would listen to him such as the priests and he corrected them about their philosophy. Owen played the Lord Jesus in another play which showed his connection to God.   Owen was even known as the voice, because he represented everyones opinions and beliefs in the high school. Owen was exceptional, and all his differences portrayed him as Gods instrument. He didnt die unexpectedly without ever knowing. But since the day he was born, he knew his whole life ahead of him and he knew that  everything which happened to him was planned to happen, even his death. Therefore, he is related to a tragic hero because it was written in his destiny from the start. One important message the author tried to convey throughout the book was how strong the friendship between Owen and John was. Owen was the reason John got far in life and the author used many symbols and motifs to express it. After Johns mother died, Owen took her dressmakers dummy from John. DONT STARE AT THE DUMMY. ITS NOT GOOD FOR YOU (183). Owen knew the dummy would remind him of Tabitha. Not just did Owen take the dummy, but he took the baseball. The baseball symbolized the instrument of his mothers death. He also took Johns Armadillo which Dan had given to him, but he returned it after removing the claws. Without the claws, the armadillo could not be stable. All these items he took away from Owen were a motif throughout the book which represented how they both had lost something important, which they loved. In the beginning of the book, they mention Watahantowet who was an armless Indian Sagamore who owned land but lost it. This was also a reoccurring motif in the novel represe nting how they had less power and they were helpless. It even showed the pain caused by events which occurred in their life. At the end, Owen cut off Johns index finger to help John avoid joining the Vietnamese war. This shows us how John trusted Owen and placed confidence in him by knowing he had done the right thing. It seems as if Owen took a lot from John through his life. But, these examples showed us how he helped him and gave him more then what he took away. When Owen took the dressmakers dummy, John took Owens baseball cards which he loved. This conveyed how Owen wanted to communicate the feeling of loosing something important. Even at the end of the story, Owen died with his arm being blasted off. Once again, another motif of amputation of body parts represented pain and loss due to tragic incidents which occurred. When Tabitha passed away, to John and Owen, it was just like them losing an arm or breaking a leg. But to Owen, it also symbolized how he was gods instrument and his hands were being controlled by him. Owen tried to guide John. He repeated ninth grade for him and went to the same university as John and refused the offer to Harvard. John would always say: I learned it from you (502). This also creates a balance act, because on one side would be Johns most prized possessions and his only memory of his mother taken away from him. But on the other side would be the loss Owen went through for John such as living away from his parents and the meaning behind everything he took from John. Owen was a loyal and brave hero to John. He helped alleviate the losses in Johns life. In the story A Prayer for Owen Meany, the author John Irving conveys different messages. Many of the themes are connected to spirituality and portray life lessons you should follow. One important theme is based on fate, which is the belief  of the idea that your destiny is controlled by a certain force or power.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One of the messages communicated is how everything happens for a reason, and the author shows us how strong the power of  fate is. In the novel, everything which occurred in Owens life was no coincidence. Owen believed that coincidence was a stupid, shallow refuge sought by stupid shallow people who were unable to accept the fact that their lives were shaped by a terrifying and awesome design (186). Within the previous quote, there is a metaphor which gives you an idea about how coincidences throughout your life arent arbitrary, but everything is written in your destiny and its as if your life is planned out. One example which supports that metaphor is the time during Johns mothers wedding. There was a huge storm and the author used pathetic fallacy to connect it to a horrible incident which was about to occur. It was very windy and  rainy; and Johns mother was hit by a hailstone on her head. This was a sign foreshadowing another upcom ing incident which would occur with her. When Owen was in bed feeling sick, he was walking to Tabithas room for comfort and it seemed as if he saw an angel. SOMEONE STRANGE IS IN HER ROOM. COME SEE! I THINK ITS AN ANGEL (79). This linked to another future event. It foreshadowed how Tabitha was going to die soon, because an angel of death represents taking away the soul. During Owens baseball games, he was never allowed to play. But once his coach let him get on the field, however he could never swing a pitch. As he was about to hit the ball, Johns mother was walking by. Ironically, Owen swung the bat with a good deal of force that the ball hit his mother and killed her. Owen believed that he saw the angel of death the night before, and stopped it from accomplishing its task for God. Since it was time for his mother to die, he had to finish  the task. Another tragic event which occurred in Owens life was the day he was playing football with John. He kicked the ball very far and the ir neighbours dog, Sagamore, ran after it. As Sagamore ran, he ran into a diaper truck and sadly died. The significance of this event  was a message from God demonstrating to Owen how he is the instrument of God, and he is controlled by Him. He is now given the power from God, and it motivates him in the future. Once, Owen was asked to play the ghost of the future in the play A Christmas Carol. No one knew why he was given that role and it only had a few lines which Owen disliked. But, as he was reading a name on a grave during his performance, he saw his own name and a date. IT WAS MY REAL NAME. IT SAID THE WHOLE THING. (254). The name revealed to him that he was going to be the ghost of the future and it gave away when his death would occur. Later, Owen had a dream. It was not just a nightmare, but it symbolized how God wanted him to accomplish an important task before he died. God  gave him instructions to his next task. I TRUST THAT GOD WILL HELP ME BECAUSE WHAT IM SUPPOSED TO DO LOOKS VERY HARD (400). The reason Owen was given that specific role to play was another way God wanted to show him how his death should occur. Throughout the novel, Johns mother would never tell him who his real father was. He never knew, until Owen died. Owen revealed to John who his real father was, in his afterlife. This shows us the reason why his mother never told him, because there was another way God wanted him to discover the truth. The way Owen was born had a special purpose to it too. His parents said that he was a virgin birth and therefore they disgraced Catholics.  As a result,  that created a feud. No one knew why he was born that way. Nevertheless, he was born unique and he served a purpose in life by helping so many people. Owen believed that there was a purpose to everything that happened-that god meant for the story of his life to have some meaning to it and god picked Owen(540). One motif in the book was Owen and John practising their basket-ball shot ov er and over again. They would try to break their record of scoring in 2 seconds. Later, they used this skill in an important part of the novel.   When the grenade was thrown at John, he caught it the same way Owen and him practised and they passed it to each other to stop it from exploding. Therefore, many disasters and tragic events occur in our lives and sometimes we dont deserve it. However, not only till the end do you receive the desired results you wanted from your hard work in life. Our life is like a pattern and we cannot control some circumstances,  however there is a reason for why they occur. The author had a way of communicating ideas which kept the book realistic but interesting. John Irving used various types of literary elements to convey his thoughts. The form he wrote in created a mood and tone which connected you to his characters. Owen had dreams which revealed his future tasks God wanted him to accomplish. He then went through many struggles to complete them for God. His dreams related to different stories of messengers of God written in holy books. One example is Abraham, and how he was told to sacrifice his son in his dream. This is related to Owens connection to God and how Owen isnt just a normal human. Another example in the book was how Owen had to cut off Johns index finger. This revealed how he gave the sacrifice by risking a chance of hurting his friend for God. Owen was also born a virgin birth and that is why he wasnt close with his parents due to the fact they told him this news when he was 10! But, he was born highly intelligent and even his physical looks were unique. Jesus was also born the same way with special abilities. This showed us an example of how the author brought in different ideas and fit them into the book to relate the characters to important figures and he used many allusions. Th e author also used many symbols, such as the armadillo, baseball and red dress which created examples of motifs throughout the book, which I have mentioned in the previous journals. John Irving wrote the story effectively and this caused the readers to become attached to the character of Owen Meany. The setting of the story which was during the early 1950s effects decisions the characters made. Johns mother decided to get a television when Owen was fifteen and this created an excitement. The television taught them more about the society rather than what they had seen. At that time, Christianity was also very important in the culture. However, as years went by, more immigrants started to settle in and the result was the loss of Americas identity. That is why this book is based around the theme of religion and many religious ceremonies occurred. Everyone believed in miracles and their life was dependent on faith. The author added a believable effect to the story by giving the characte rs realistic traits. Even though Owen Meany was Gods instrument and could be compared to a deferential and intelligent angel, he changed a lot. As he grew older, the people he grew up with changed him and he did start to smoke like most teenagers. As John and Owen matured, their feelings for Hester developed strongly. The thoughts through their minds would be of what males experience of the general public today. Owen was not completely pure, but he was a character which most of us would try to be like and he if we too did know him, he would have influenced us greatly. The author did not write chronologically, but put different pieces together of Johns life which revealed to us secrets throughout the end of the book. There was a thorough plot development in the book but sometimes the author dragged it on and you would want him to get to the point. It was a well written novel with many different morals and themes the author tried to get across: Religion, Friendship, Family, War, Faith and Death.

Comparing Sir Thomas Mores Utopia and Virgils Aeneid Essay -- Compar

Identity and Power in Sir Thomas More's Utopia and Virgil's Aeneid In Utopia and the Aeneid, Sir Thomas More and Virgil describe the construction and perpetuation of a national identity. In the former, the Utopian state operates on the â€Å"inside† by enforcing, through methods of surveillance, a normalized identity on its citizens under the guise of bettering their lives. In the latter, the depleted national identity of the future Romans in the wake of the Trojan War must reformulate itself from the â€Å"outside† by focusing on defining what it is not. In both instances, the lines between the â€Å"inside† and the â€Å"outside† are clearly drawn and redrawn. The two methodologies are in actuality the flipsides of one another: in clearly defining the accepted national identity and contrasting with it the danger and instability outside this narrow conception, the state is legitimized in doing violence on a massive scale to either eliminate the constructed outside threat or to further the imperialistic project so that th ese lines remain intact and unquestioned. In Utopia, the state imposes a culture of normalization to formulate a national identity that both defines and binds its citizens. The fifty-four towns of the country are virtually identical with the â€Å"same language, laws, customs, and institutions† (More 70). Even the appearances of individuals resemble each other with no distinctions in dress. This imposition of conformity serves to form a singular national identity that is artificial yet prevalent. As a result, the normalization is internalized by the people, becoming a cult of self-surveillance where the uniformity of physical appearances is superceded only by the uniformity of identity. The state succeeds in establishing a panopt... ...te literary Trojan Horse. As the representative work of the entire Western civilization, his work is guaranteed wide dissemination. However, the ambivalence of his literary conventions often traps the unwitting reader and forces him or her to confront the violent undercurrents of Pax Romana. In essence, More and Virgil speak to the dangers of imposing a normative national identity that actually becomes the flipside of a violent imperialist project. More importantly, they open up space for dissent by critiquing the seemingly impenetrable state system from the inside and thus exposing its inherent contradictions precariously built on a foundation of violence. Works Cited Virgil. The Aeneid of Virgil: A Verse Translation. Trans. Rolfe Humphries. Ed. Brian Wilkie. New York: Macmillan, 1987. More, Thomas, Sir. Utopia. Trans. Paul Turner. New York: Penguin, 1965.