Certainty vs Doubt Essay Essay

The argument between certainty and doubt is highly controversial. Despite the side that people have accustomed themselves to, there are still pros and cons to both. A person’s doubt can easily distract them from reaching their full potential, while it can also aide in making a more realistic and achievable decision because with doubt they are able to question their abilities and eliminate the options that aren’t as feasible. Whereas certainty can misguide someone into the delusion of great powers, it can also assist them in attaining a massive success because they are giving themselves the option of fathoming an idea so great that initiates a surge of passion that tells them they can achieve such greatness. Despite the seemingly equivalent pros and cons between doubt and certainty, certainty is definitely the best mindset to have when trying to find triumph in one’s life. Isaiah Stock, an APLAC student at University of North Carolina, said, â€Å"Think of certai nty and doubt as parts of an automobile. Certainty is considered to be the accelerator, while doubt is the steering wheel. You can get nowhere without driving –certainty—but without steering through the impediments in your way –doubt—, you will surely crash and burn.† Again, emphasizing the crucial balance between doubt and certainty, this metaphor is an almost acceptable depiction of how they work together because yes, without certainty one is likely not going to get very far in life and without doubt an individual is likely to fail. This metaphor is accurate in all its parts, but it is missing one important aspect and that is that failure is not the end and can only help to guide someone to make better fitted decisions. So with that in view, having the mindset of certainty is clearly a more efficient way of finding success. One could say that â€Å"having doubt is a part of human nature, that from birth we are curios [and that] to question anything and everything that we want to know more about is perfectly acceptable† (Christen, Nicole â€Å"Certainty vs Doubt†). This is only partly true due to the fact that just because doubt is part of human nature, it does not mean that it is not controllable or that it is, in a sense, the best choice between certainty and doubt because all that this idea supports  is how we as humans have to make decisions. It does not support the idea that having doubt is a better way to live one’s life than having certainty. In conclusion, despite the contradictive and also supportive qualities that both doubt and certainty have when compared to one another, believing that one can reach for something that will likely be more challenging to grasp is and will always be more gratifying in the end, even if the individual fails because it allows growth in decision making skills and one’s knowledge of their maximum abilities. Doubt does not allow an individual to reach their untapped potential because they do not find it feasibly possible and thus never attempt to see if may just be.

Implementing a Flexible Work Schedule

Flexible work schedules provide employees options regarding their working schedules for standard work week (Monday-Friday). These options include working from home (on occasion) to working a compacted amount of hours within the work week, limiting the amount of days in which the employee has to come into the office. Flexible work schedules are usually implemented with the intention of allowing employers the opportunity to have a well-balanced lifestyle between home and work. The primary or most popular work option chosen is flex-time (Russell H. O'Connell, 2009). Flex-time allows employees to negotiate there hours within the limits of management. Another option is a compressed work week which means that you have worked your 40 hours in less than the standard 5 days. An option that is becoming popular for industries that are technology focused if call job-sharing. Job-sharing allows employees to divide the work load between two employees, which gives each employee the flexibility of working virtually or from different parts of the country (Russell H. O'Connell, 2009). And then there is telecommuting, means that employees can complete their work time obligations from the leisure of their homes or a preferred location. The following Chart provides is a brief description of the flexible work options: A work schedule that condenses one or more standard workweeks into fewer, longer days. A work schedule with variable starting and ending times, within limits set by one's supervisor/manager. Employees still work the same number of scheduled hours as they would under a traditional arrangement. An arrangement in which two or more part-time (or occasional) employees share the responsibilities of one full-time job at a pro-rated salary. A work schedule that is less than full-time but is at least half of the regularly scheduled full time workweek. A block of time off while retaining one's job. These leaves may be paid or unpaid. A work arrangement in which employees regularly work at home or at an alternative work-site during part or all of a work schedule One assumption that is made by many employers is that allowing or implementing a flexible work schedule allows to retain your employees and maintain a more consistent work force (Pruchno, 2000). According to some, implementing and executing a flexible work schedule can reduce employee turnover, and save companies money in the long run on expenses associated with replacing valuable employees. Pruchno states that the cost associated with employee turnover can add up to 130% of the departing employee's salary (Pruchno, 2000). So for many, implementing flexible work schedules can be seen as a cost saving strategy. Another benefit for implementing a flexible work schedule can be measured by having a more relaxed, engaged, committed and productive employee (Families, 2012). Suzan Lewis wrote in her on implementing a flexible work schedule that, â€Å"both flex-time and compressed workweeks had positive effects on productivity/or self-rated performance, job satisfaction, and satisfaction with work schedules but that absenteeism was affected by ex-time only. â€Å"(Lewis, 2003). It later goes on to suggest that absenteeism had a relationship with the flexibility of the arrangement, where for example the different effects on absenteeism are because compressed work weeks are less flexible and therefore do not allow employees to, for example, make up time lost through illness or other reasons, as flex-time does, which results theoretically in a higher level of absenteeism (Lewis, 2003). The intended impacts and benefits for implementing a flexible work schedule is to balance work and lifestyle issues while increasing job productivity, commitment and employee satisfaction. One study concluded that employees operating under a flexible work scheduled usually demonstrate improved work and lifestyle balances immediately (Russell H. O'Connell, 2009). In fact the study states that â€Å"employees operating under flex-time work schedules displayed a more improved level of work and life balances than their counterparts utilizing traditional fixed-hour schedules. (Russell H. O'Connell, 2009). Now, although the impacts of a flexible work schedules may appear to have primarily positive results, an incorrect execution of this program can cause problems. Overall productivity, depending on the industry, could potentially drop if the wrong program is implemented. Issues related to fairness, can also come into place if the program is not implemented and executed accurately. Most employers and employees agree that the proper implementation of a flexible work schedule can help to maintain a work-life balance and can increase job satisfaction and productivity. However, the potential problems to implementing such a program are usually seen when too many options are made available or when the wrong option is made available without proper research and planning. Companies should know and have a clear understanding of the impacts of each flexible work option. Along with this knowledge, companies should understand the impacts of specific flexible work options on their operations. Flex-time and telecommuting may not work as well in a manufacturing environment as oppose to an office setting. And Job-sharing may not work well for an engineering company, as it works for an IT help desk company. So, companies will need to make sure that they have engaged themselves in a comprehensive planning process to determine the right fit. So, the success of implementing and executing flexible work schedule ideally hinges on the actual option that is implemented. Which means that the success is determined by the type of industry that it is implanted in (office work, operation, manufacturing, etc.); the working environment or culture; and the carefully instituted flexibility of the work option itself? Also, as was highlighted earlier, the degree of flexibility is relatively important as well as it relates to how effective the flexible option can be. An option that is too flexible can yield minimal results in the intended goal of cost savings and employee work and lifestyle improvements. However, an option that that may be considered to be not flexible enough may risks not to be seen by employees as being beneficial and may not yield to intended cost savings. In saying this, to maximize effectiveness in this respect, a medium needs to be found where the arrangement is flexible yet not to an extent that hinders the intended goals and outcomes. The following outline provides some practical steps for planning, implementing and assessing a flexible work schedule (Families, 2012): What impact will flexible time or work location arrangements have on your service to clients? What are the benefits for employees and the organization? What are the potential problems? Can you deal with them? What time, effort and money it will take to make flexible arrangements successful? Is training required to be sure managers and co-workers have the knowledge and skills Ask employees, possibly in a survey, what they want Consult widely – with other organizations, clients, board members, volunteers, staff Review options, consider strengths and weaknesses of these options Develop written policies and procedures for implementation and monitoring Communicate to board, clients, staff, volunteers, public Run a pilot for a trial period and evaluate it Have staff report back on the pilot to provide their feedback Amend and/or extend the program if necessary After the pilot has run, make any modifications or changes to the program Inform staff of new processes and procedures Continue to evaluate the program on a regular basis Solicit feedback from participants, make changes and adapt plan as required This outline provides some basic steps for getting started, putting/implementing an effective plan of action, and evaluating the plan for improvements and adjustments. It also touches on some required elements that will help the company to yield the intended goals and to obtain buy-in from employees and staff. Implementing a flexible work schedule can be very costly and time consuming in the beginning; however, putting together a realistic and comprehensive plan will go a long ways toward assuring effectiveness. Specifically, the best way to ensure an effective implantation and execution of a flexible work schedule is to make sure that the applied flexible work option suits the specific industry. For example, flex-time can be a relatively ineffective arrangement unless it is chosen for the right job. Allowing a school teacher a day off once a week is probably not a good idea if his/her class schedules require that they be in attendance from Monday-Friday. Whereas a data-analyst who works for a software company, could potentially work 10 hours a day for four days a week and can be just as or even more effective than if he/she work eight hours a day five days a week. So, for companies to truly maximize effectiveness in the implementation of a flexible work schedule, the right flexible work option needs to be applied. In conclusion the some of the benefits of implementing flexible work schedule are cost saving, low employee absenteeism, increased employee productivity and work performance. However, these benefits are only yielded if the company implements and executes the right flexible work option. In this report, detailed steps and recommendations have been provided for how companies can successfully implement a flexible work Schedule. To ensure that the intended goals are achieved it is important that companies make sure that they have identified and implemented the right flexible work option(s). They must also make sure that the implementation process is inclusive whereas employees and executive staff members are included, trained and provided an opportunity to provide input in the implementation process. Finally, implementing a flexible work schedule, if done correctly, can do wonders for employee morale and commitment.

Life of pi personal essay

In Yawn Marten's Life of Pi, Piecing Molotov Patella's Journey explores many connections to my life. His life in India, along with his experience on water, allows Pi to recognize many attributes about himself. My life in three specific ways, mirrors the life of Pl. This is proven through hope, loss, and religion involved in both of our lives. Pip's ‘cup half full' outlook, along with his â€Å"fierce will to live†(Marten, 164) is what gives him hope throughout his Journey on water. This is seen when Pi absorbs that there is a tiger in his life boat and that they are stranded in the middle of the ocean.This makes him realize oncoming death, however he fails to accept it due to the voice he hears in his heart; â€Å"l will not die. I refuse it. I will not make it through this nightmare. I will beat the odds, as great as they are. I have survived so far, miraculously. Now I will turn miracle into routine (163). † This spark of light found in his heart in such a hopel ess situation, proves his amazing outlook on life and will to survive. Similarly, I try to view every situation in a positive light as well, no matter how hopeless the situation may be.This is usually seen when I may be in a bad situation with others, and instead of complaining, I will make the remark â€Å"Well, it could be worse. For instance†¦ † This attitude tends to create more positivist in everyone and every situation. In addition, Pip's loss of loved ones also connects to myself. When he can no longer deny the death of his Father, Mother and brother Rave, he grieves; â€Å"what a thing to acknowledge in your heart (141)! † This represents the love that he will forever cherish of his family. Loss is something that everyone lives with.In the case of God's Theodosius, people presume that evil, including loss, is existent due to possible reasons: to build character, to develop free will, pure revenge, etc. In the case of P', I believe that his loss establishes building of character, and in connection to my first point, creates motivation which brings him hope. The loss of my family members, including all four of my grandparents, has been bitter sweet. Of course, death is a tragedy in the case of loved ones, however, believing that they are looking down on e has given me hope and motivation, like P', to strive for success and make them proud.The major factor that Pi develops throughout the novel is the discovery of his identity. His religion(s), family, and self, all contribute to the way that he showcases himself when he is independent on the ocean. In his search for religion, Pi is not limited by the bounds of a single religion, but instead seeks guidance and meaning from many. His choices of following the religions of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity are all able to contribute to his strong love for God/Allah.It is Pip's dignity and belief for God that he cares about; â€Å"To me, religion is about our dignity, not our depravity'( 79). Like Papua Gandhi, I agree that ‘All religions are true† (76) and that there are no rules for loving God as religion is an independent choice. After all, the point of spirituality is not to becoming limited by narrow thinking, but to find yourself in order to enhance your lives, and the lives of those around you. Unlike P', I was raised practicing the single religion of Judaism in my household.My mother (who inverted) along with my father, exposed me to the practices and beliefs of Judaism, which I still practice and abide by today. This goes along with my Bat Mitzvahs at the age of thirteen which identified me as a woman. My belief in God, like Pi, is strong, and thanks to religion, is a major part of my identity. When examined closer, Pip's hope in all situations, loss of loved ones, and identity which is seen through his religion, are all able to connect closely with myself. Works Cited Marten, Yawn. Life of Pi: a novel. New York: Harcourt, 2001. Print.

Research Paper - Health Care Reform Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Research Paper - Health Care Reform - Assignment Example There would be adjustments to other health care providers, agencies and even the psychiatric facilities. These market reduction updates are likely to be offset by newer yearly productivity changes in order to reflect an increase in the economy of the United States. Issuing of budgets to the productive changes will not be an easy task for the reason that measures used in establishing them are not recognized. If there are no doubts of the effectiveness of charge arrangements, collection and billing, health care providers may plan in reducing the market updates and containing the costs (Saltman, 320). The law of health care reform takes for granted that payments of the disproportionate share hospital will be less significant if a large population of people get coverage by insurance. These disproportionate share hospital payments will continue to be vital in healthy margins maintenance in many health care providers (Elmendorf, 196). To assist in offsetting the health care costs for Medicaid patients, other providers of health care may get huge amounts of money as reimbursements. In addition, these health care providers are likely to make best use of Medicare disproportionate share hospital payments by estimating the capture of services used in charity care. Payment changes are likely to affect all people participating in health care provision. The reform issues directives on new models of payment then the patients and the health care providers know the changes made and modify their behaviors so that the new model can be accommodated (Gonzalez, 160). There will be changes in collection of data, how they are shared and analyzed by the health care providers. In a life science company, increase in value emphasis will need amendments in how information can be employed in positioning and presenting the products. The latest large sets of data are likely to be put into use by

International business environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

International business environment - Essay Example The paper describes the process of globalization that results in mutual satisfaction of international economic relations as man-made and natural barriers fall. The process itself may have positive as well as negative effects on country's economy. The process grew strength in the early 19990s. Globalization offer opportunities that entail effective resource allocation and so higher per capita incomes. Faster integration to the system can be promoted by new methods and ways of production driven by change in technology. Globalization has made it easier to divide production into several sub-processes, so labor-intensive sections of the production process could be gotten from abroad. This atomization made international trade in intermediate goods a growing substantial feature of international trade. The rapid change in international demand and supply conditions has besides bringing economies together, made relations more composite. Another issue that has made international trade complex i s the weight of the upcoming markets in the world economy has become substantially more prominent. Although globalization entails various dimensions, it usually refers to economic ties and processes. Economic globalization pertains the expansion of production, consumption, trade, savings, and investment made to markets beyond regional and national ones. For countries that are developing, the risk of growing inequality linked with active participation in the global economy attributed to institutional weaknesses relating to being poor. (Prasad 2003, p.4). This paper tries to bring out a fair view of globalization; pointing out the benefits and risks that globalization has for countries that are developing. The paper looks at the evidence and controversies that can be used against and in favor of globalization and also the policy options and prospects. It also tries to assist Palomia by looking at its economy and reporting the risks and benefits of globalization. Gains from globalizati on Benefits from Globalization can lead to advances, in efficiency and gains, in economic wellbeing. Trade improves division of labor as countries that specialize in a given field gains comparative advantage over the rest. This is a very vital part of economic empowerment as a country like Palomia may have the advantage on something over the others. Deeper relationships and penetration of international markets will enable and encourage and motivate consumers and producers to reap the benefits of economies of scale. The competitive international market will also reduce profits of monopolies. This incentivizes businesses to seek innovations that are cost efficient and advances what they sell. Gains in efficiency also should bring advancement in economic growth and so resulting in higher per capita incomes. This could be good prospects for developing nations as it is able to make more money to stir more growth. Globalization also has assisted many poor countries in the world achieve hi gher growth rates and minimize the number of citizens living in absolute poverty. For consumers, globalization or international trade expands the range of good services available. The rate at which goods and services get innovated is also encouraging making the trade dynamic. The participation of countries that are still developing in the process of globalization can allow them better apply their comparative advantages. This making them bring in advanced technologies, management experience and foreign capital. It is also prosperous for eliminating monopolistic characteristics and toughening market competition (Bigman 2002, p.10). Risks involved in globalization While providing more growth opportunities for countries that are still growing, the globalization process also poses enormous risks. To begin with, economic globalization has indeed expanded instead of reducing the

Online advertising Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Online advertising - Essay Example Online video includes both streaming and progressive download video. According to the report, in total, 138 million Americans - approximately three in four U.S Internet users - viewed online video in November. Top U.S. Online Video Properties* by Unique Video Viewers November 2007 Total U.S. - Home/Work/University Locations Source: comScore Video Metrix Property Unique Viewers (000) Percent of all U.S. Internet Users Total Internet 138,383 75.9% Google Sites 76,187 41.8% Fox Interactive Media 46,349 25.4% Yahoo! Sites 37,300 20.5% Time Warner Network 31,212 17.1% Microsoft Sites 28,470 15.6% Viacom Digital 23,522 12.9% Disney Online 10,361 5.7% ESPN 10,128 5.6% ABC.com 9,969 5.5% CBS Corporation 8,336 4.6% *Rankings based on video content sites; excludes video server networks. Online video includes both streaming and progressive download video. Online advertising "opens up new communication possibilities for personalized messages to be delivered to targeted individuals (Davis 2000, 113). It can help us "create a customized, common information technology platform for all your company's activities-resulting in unique, integrated systems that reinforce the strategic fit among your firm's many functions. Even better, competitors can't easily imitate these systems" (Michael E. Porter 2). That online media as an effective source of advertising can be gauged from the fact that the second generation of Internet ("Web 2.0") companies such as MySpace, Facebook, Linked/In and YouTube that set shop three years ago, today have more users than the entire U.S. population. This trend adequately highlights the fact that we can target the online community for creating customer loyalty, promoting sales and services and building and strengthening our brand... This essay "Online advertising" outlines the advantages and effectiveness of online ad and how it can help the company to increase the sales rate. Unlike forced advertising methods which can have a negative impact on sales if the consumers are not interested in our products, we can provide information to those who actually look forward to receive it. The benefit of this is that our email advertising campaign will have a better chance of sales conversion than any other form of advertising. There are many websites that have dedicated communities of members interested in a particular subject. In our case, there are communities for each our textbooks: AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Catia, and Solid Edge. WE can reach our potential customers by providing press releases in websites dedicated to these communities. Here, I can give you the example of a website www.tenlinks.com that has a large registered audience of software users as its members. While most websites allow us to place our press release s for free, there are others that do charge a nominal cost. The advantage is that at very low rates, we can target a global audience and create a bigger market for our textbooks. I rest my case by saying, "Internet technology makes both giving and collecting feedback very easy, which further encourages two-way communication" (Y Liu, LJ Shrum 7) between the business entity and the consumers providing opportunities for mutually beneficial relationships, better sales and promotion of goods and services.

Stress Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Stress - Essay Example This kind of stress is experienced equally by administrators, managers, employees and workers. Segal et al (2008, para.2) assert that â€Å"while some stress is a normal part of life, excessive stress interferes with your productivity and reduces your physical and emotional health, so it’s important to find ways to keep it under control†. A little stress is beneficial, as it keeps one going and forces him to maintain his good performance. This is called positive stress. However, negative stress weighs heavily on one’s well being because one feels weakened enough to fight the hurdles (Volhard & Volhard, 2011). Behavioral effects of stress include discontentment, argumentative behavior, lack of attentiveness, lack of commitment to the job, and conflicts in relationships (Soreq, Friedman, & Kaufer, 2009, p.42). Physiological effects include headache, stomachache, slow digestion, obesity, decreased sex drive, blood pressure leading to coronary heart diseases, and var ious skin infections (Mayo Clinic, 2011). Before treating stress, it is important to rule out the possibility of factors that accompany stress. Segal, J., Horwitz, L., Jaffe-Gill, E., Smith, M., & Segal, R. (2008). How to reduce and manage job and workplace stress. Stress at Work. Retrieved 6 April, 2012, from

Business development proposal Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 8500 words

Business development proposal - Dissertation Example The proposal is for a purpose-built facility in Southwark. This location is selected for its consistency with student preferences as revealed by studies reported in the literature and by the Southwark Council. In addition, data revealed by Savills and Knight Frank also indicate that there is a significant market for purpose-built housing facilities and since LSCIT does not offer these facilities, this study investigates the feasibility of such facilities for LSCIT as a business opportunity. In this regard, students in London are interviewed about their lived experiences with accommodations in London and parents who fund international student’s residence in London participate in open-ended questionnaires about their preferences and perspectives on purpose-built housing facilities. The results of this study are discussed and in particular the implications for LSCIT are discussed. 1. Introduction The London School of Commerce and IT (LSCIT) is a higher education institution in Lo ndon offering undergraduate and post-graduate degrees in Business. Although LSCIT reaches out to international students it does not specifically offer students accommodations. The only accommodations offered is in the form of assistance through estate agents and this is only a temporary arrangement for students who are entering LSCIT from outside of London. The purpose of this report is to provide a business proposal for a purpose-built student housing facility for the London school of Commerce in London’s Southwark area. The London Borough of Southwark is a convenient location for the housing facility because, while it is a part of London, it is not entirely centrally located and therefore permits students to escape the higher prices of accommodations and general costs of living in Central London. Southwark is also noted for its history and was once home to Shakespeare, Chaplin and Dickens. In addition transport into the city, to airports and out of the city is available in Southwark and this is particularly appealing to foreign students. International students will also feel comfortable in Southwark as, 43% of students in Southwark’s schools speak English as a second language (Southwark Council, n.d.). International students and students who do not originate from London are both important to the continued success of LSCIT. A research report prepared by Kingdom (2012) reveals that with an increase in tuition for higher education in the UK, there was a 7.7% drop in applications for entry in 2012. However, international students remain strongly represented in the UK’s higher education institutions and in London in particular, one out of every three students are foreign (Kingdom, 2012). Over the last three years or so, the private sector’s provision of accommodations has increased and this increase is primarily spurred by international students. It is expected however, that there will be an increase in demand for purpose built housing as students faced with higher tuition looked for improved quality in their university experience including accommodations (Kingdom, 2012). According to a research report provided by Savills (2013), the student housing market in Europe is maturing and investors are looking for opportunities to invest in purpose build housing. One of the main drivers is cities such as London, where

Master Degree in Accounting Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Master Degree in Accounting - Personal Statement Example However, my quest for knowledge and development instills me with the passion to learn more beyond what I already know. I believe that I should not stop but strive to achieve my full potential My decision to pursue a master's degree in accountancy is part of my quest in furthering my growth and development as a person and an employee. This program will certainly boost my knowledge through the new concepts which will be presented by my professors. Considering that I am from Egypt, I believe that I will surely learn a lot of new things in this country. The acquisition of knowledge will be more efficient as I will be dealing with the nest teachers and other students from around the globe. Aside from this, I know that my interaction with my classmates will also enable me to enhance my social skills, make me more open-minded, and improve my knowledge on world culture. This university is the best venue for me to gain all these. I believe that a master's degree will be my ticket in fulfilling my life's purpose-to contribute in the success of business organizations. I am born with an innate desire contribute what I have to the business world. With my knowledge and experience, this will be in my field of interest-accountancy.

The Mass Media and Social Construction Essay Example for Free

The Mass Media and Social Construction Essay The mass media industry is implicated in social construction. There are Ways of Seeing which serve state-corporate interests at the expense of the interests of the people. This is because there is a direct relationship between the mainstream press and the political economy of state-corporate capitalism in the construction of the false reality. The system of capitalism heavily indoctrinates the population through the mainstream press. The mass media fulfils this duty, because it is owned and controlled by the corporate class. In other words, economics and media are inter-linked. Herman and Chomsky provide evidence for this reality in Manufacturing Consent. (Herman and Chomsky) They show how the mainstream press is run by the political economy and how the viewer is made into a pawn. The two authors build a propaganda model in which they reveal how the U.S. government exploits the media to enforce control over the people. The mass media, therefore, is a corporate tool that is used to indoctrinate the population. The viewer is told what kind of desire he should have. If a person watches the media carefully, he will be able to see that certain programs have hidden messages and assumptions that reveal a certain bias against certain groups. Even the language that is used is based on certain premises that the corporate order wants people to think is normal. Yet all of these messages shape values. To a large extent, this process is about how people give approval to their own domination without even knowing it. Herman and Chomsky reveal how the language of the U.S. mass media is actually very limited. The parameters of debate are very narrow. What this basically means is that people think they are having a free-for-all discussion, but in fact it is the negation of discussion. Herman and Chomsky demonstrate how the marketplace and the economics of publishing try to shape the news we receive. A certain message is sent out that tries to limit the way people think about things. In this way, people are brainwashed. Thus, the corporate-run media basically shapes the desires and opinions of  the majority of people. This is because producers and advertisers have an interest in reinforcing certain ideologies. This is, therefore, a political battle. Economic elites retain their power by shaping and moulding social reality through the means of mass media. As Chomsky and Herman reveal, for example, American media employs a double standard in the ways it treats the crimes committed by enemy countries and the crimes committed by friendly countries. (Chomsky, pp.30-33) This serves a certain political agenda. Thus, it becomes clear that there is a direct relationship between the mainstream press and the political economy of state-corporate capitalism in the construction of social reality. The system of capitalism hides behind the scenes of this manipulation, but it is really pulling the strings. There is a propaganda model which we are a part of. The mass media serves as a corporate tool in this manipulation of what we are. That is why John Berger has told us about his issue of Ways of Seeing. (Berger) It turns out that what we see is not necessarily what we are seeing. Berger makes an important point when he says that publicity falsely proposes that purchases of things will change the consumer. Yet we know that this is a lie. Nonetheless, people but into the lie of advertising. People are simply led to believe that they are making a choice, when in fact all that is happening is the negation of choice. This is where Bergers point also becomes relevant, since Berger shows how advertising promises to change the consumer. But only sameness results. Thus, he r reveals that advertising actually steals something from the consumer and then sells it back at a certain price. Berger writes that, The spectator-buyer is meant to envy as she will become if she buys the product. She is meant to imagine herself transformed by the product into an object of envy for others, an envy which will then justify her loving herself. (Berger, p.134) This is the way that people are made to believe that they simply have to be consumers in order to be accepted by the society in which they live. If they do not buy what they are told, and if they do not want to own certain things, then they are simply not a part of the society that is deemed to be normal. In this way, we see how the mass media industry is  implicated in social construction. There are Ways of Seeing which serve state-corporate interests at the expense of true freedom for people. Works Cited Berger, John. Ways of Seeing (Pelican) Herman and Chomsky. Manufacturing Consent (Pantheon)

An Introduction To Logic Gates Essay

An Introduction To Logic Gates Essay Logic circuit is one that behaves like a switch, i.e. a two-positive devise with ON or OFF states. This is termed as binary device, in which the ON state is represented by 1 and the OFF state by 0. We require devising a logic statement which can be expressed in only one of two forms. For instance As you may know, computers store information in gigabytes, megabytes, and so on. The fundamental unit of storage is the bit or binary digit, which is similar to a switch. Like a switch, which has two states on or off, the bit has two states 1 and 0 (sometimes represented as true and false. We use this abstraction to represent numbers with the binary number system. In order to perform calculations, the computer manipulates bits by means of logical operations, which use inputs to yield a particular output based on the input bits states. To explicitly define the logic, we use truth tables which express the outputs in terms of all combinations of inputs. Examples of truth tables for logical operations are given below: Logical AND (i.e. A.B=C) Logical OR (i.e. A+B=C) Logical NOT (i.e. A) A useful way of representing these logical operations is by means of logic gates, which are pictorial representations of the logic. The most basic logic gates, which illustrate the Boolean logic of the above truth tables, are AND logic gate C=A.B OR logic gate C=A+B NOT logic gate B=A Using the logic gates above, we can create schematics of more complicated circuits. These combinational logic circuits involve feeding the output of one gate to the input of another gate. This allows us to create useful circuits that function according to our needs. Examples are provided below: F=X.Y.Z F=X+Y+Z F=X+Y.Z We probably know that calculators and computers store decimal (0-9) numbers as long strings of zeros and ones in a form called binary code. Each number is stored using microscopic electronic switches called transistors. Its easy to store binary numbers simply by switching transistors on and off. Switching on a transistor stores a number one; switching it off stores a zero. So storing numbers is easy. But how can you add, subtract, multiply, and divide using nothing but electric currents? Calculators and computers do these using clever electronic circuits called logic gates. Fig:1.1 Photo: A gate can keep we out or let we into a field. In the same way, a microscopic logic gate is a barrier in an electronic circuit that can let electricity through or stop it flowing altogether. Put lots of logic gates together and you make a machine thats capable of basic mathematical reasoning. TYPES OF LOGIC GATES: Logic gates: circuits that compare A logic gate might sound horribly complex, but its simply an electric circuit with two inputs and an output. It receives two incoming electric currents, compares them, and sends on a new, outgoing electric current depending on what it finds. A logic gate is a bit like a doorman or bouncer who is allowed to let people into a nightclub only if they pass certain tests. There are quite a few different types of logic gate, the most common of which are called AND, OR, NOT, XOR (Exclusive Or), NAND (NOT AND), and NOR (NOT OR). Lets look at the three simpler ones, AND, OR, and NOT: AND Suppose we went to a nightclub where the doormans job is to enforce a simple rule: Everyone in our group must wear a tie to come in. We went along with a friend one night. If were both wearing ties, youll get in. If only one of we is wearing a tie, or if neither of us is, neither of you will get in. An AND logic gate works the same way with two electrical inputs. If both inputs are switched on (that is, carry a number 1), the output will be 1 as well. Otherwise the output will be 0. In electronics, we can represent an AND gate with this little symbol. Three ways in which the gate can work are shown below. OR Were not wearing a tie, so you go to another club further down the street. Here, the person on the door is enforcing a different rule: A group of people can come in if any one of them is a member. If either we or our friend is a member, or if you both are members, we can both come in. If neither of we is a member, youre both left out in the cold. An OR logic gate works this way with two electrical inputs. If either input is switched on (that is, carries a number 1), the output will be 1 as well. Otherwise the output will be 0. In electronics, we represent an OR gate with a different symbol. Three ways in which it can work are shown beneath: NOT So far, weve failed to get into either of the clubs. But theres one last hope: you know a friend is having a party a few streets away. The only trouble is, theres a really argumentative and contrary person on the door. He talks to each person in turn as they approach him. If youre nice and polite, he shouts abuse at you and turns you away. But if youre rude to him, he likes that for some reason and lets you in. In other words, he does exactly the opposite of what youd expect! In electronics, theres a logic gate that works in the same, contrary way and its called a NOT gate or invertor. Unlike AND and OR gates, it has only one input and one output. The output is exactly the opposite of the input, so if the input is a 0, the output is a 1 and vice versa. Heres how we represent a NOT in electronics. Two ways it can work are shown beneath. The other three common logic gates are variations on these three. XOR (Exclusive OR) is like an OR, but it switches off if both the inputs are switched on. NAND is just like AND, only the end result is swapped over (so where AND produces an output of 1, NAND produces an output of 0). NOR is like OR with the end result swapped over in the same way. Calculators can do all the things they need to do using different combinations of logic gates. Its logic gates that control how the display works in a calculator and more logic gates that figure out the results of calculations. Lets take a closer look NAND gate This is a NOT-AND gate which is equal to an AND gate followed by a NOT gate. The outputs of all NAND gates are high i any of the inputs are low. The symbol is an AND gate with a small circle on the output. The small circle represents inversion.   NOR gate This is a NOT-OR gate which is equal to an OR gate followed by a NOT gate. The outputs of all NOR gates are low if any of the inputs are high. The symbol is an OR gate with a small circle on the output. The small circle represents inversion.   EXOR gate The Exclusive-OR gate is a circuit which will give a high output if either, but not both, of its two inputs are high. An encircled plus sign () is used to show the EOR operation. EXNOR gate The Exclusive-NOR gate circuit does the opposite to the EOR gate. It will give a low output if either, but not both, of its two inputs are high. The symbol is an EXOR gate with a small circle on the output. The small circle represents inversion. The NAND and NOR gates are called universal functions since with either one the AND and OR functions and NOT can be generated. Note: A function in sum of products form can be implemented using NAND gates by replacing all AND and OR gates by NAND gates. A function in product of sums form can be implemented using NOR gates by replacing all AND and OR gates by NOR gates. IMPLEMENTATION OF LOGIC GATES FIG: 1.2 130 ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR   The Friden 130 uses diode-resistor OR and AND logic gates, with transistor-based inverter, buffer, and flip-flop devices. It performs math operations in bit-serial form, using the magnetostrictive delay line as the medium for storing its working registers. Logic levels are 0 Volts representing logic 1, and -12 Volts (nominally) representing logic 0. The delay line input transducer is driven with a pulse of approximately 20V, and by the time the signal makes it to the other end of the delay line, the voltage induced in the transducer is approximately 35mV, or 35/1000ths of a volt. Digits are stored within the delay line as a series of pulses arranged in groups for each digit. Zero pulses represent a zero, and nine pulses represent a nine, with the numbers in-between represented by a number of pulses matching the number. As the pulses exit the delay line, they are amplified and fed into the counters (the A and/or D counters), which count the number of pulses in the digit to form a uniq ue five-bit identifier that represents the number. The counter registers are not configured as counters in the usual binary sense. They are instead configured as five stage switch-tail shift registers, such that they count in a sequence of shifting 1s. For example; 0 is represented as 00000; 1 as 10000; 2 as 11000; 3 as 11100; 4 as 11110; 5 as 11111; with 6 as 01111, and ending with 9 as 00001. With five flip flops, each counter can represent the numbers zero through nine as unique combinations of bit patterns. In terms of applying logic gates to real world applications, many gates can be used in Figure1`.3CEP-1114 Piezo Buzzer Frequency processing. For example, when dealing with piezo audio transducers such as the CEP-1114, an oscillating frequency signal is require to produce a sound pattern from the buzzer.   Figure 3: AND gate signal output wave generator such as an oscilloscope or a programmed PIC must be logically processed with a second frequency signal to create a combination of high/low outputs which will turn the Buzzer on and off creating a sound pattern. So if you used a Square-wave signal from a PIC as one input into an AND gate and a second varying frequency as the other input, it is proven due to AND gate logic that when both signals are high the buzzer will produce a sound, and any other combination will turn the buzzer off. Furthermore, as you can see from Figure 3 on the left, the output is only high when both Input A and Input B are high. If Input B was changed or altered, this would alter the output signal sent to the buzzer. Imagine that Input B was stretched so that only one period was observed in the time give rather than two periods. This would extent the time that Input B is high and would increase the time that the output is high. Additionally, if variation of the waveform inputs is difficult or impossible, variation of the output can still be accomplished by simply changing the logic gate implemented. If the AND gate currently being used was replaced with a NAND gate, the output would be completely reversed. Every time the output was high using the AND gate will now be low, and every time the output was low will now be high. Conclusion Logic gates come in all shapes and sizes, and whether they are used in combinations or individually, they provide the user with many options and solutions to problems which may appear difficult at first. Furthermore, these seven basic logic gates ease the complexity of Boolean algebra and allow for simple application in electronics and circuit analysis. These gates can be used in almost any situation such as comparison of frequencies when developing filters in communication or in more mechanical settings when using choppers and inverters which compare input and output currents to determine modulating indexes. Figure 2: CEP-1114 Piezo Buzzer FLIP FLOPS Flip flops are actually an application of logic gates. With the help of Boolean logic you can create memory with them. This is the most basic idea of a Random Access Memory [RAM]. If the logic gates are designed correctly, they will be helpful in remembering the input value given to them. A higher application of flip flops is helpful in designing better electronic circuits. The main use of flip flops is the implementation of a feedback circuit. As a memory relies on the feedback concept, flip flops can be used to design it. Given below is a simple feedback circuit using two inverter logic gates. Take a look. Though this circuit is not good for practical electronic circuits, it will help you to get a clear idea on what a feedback circuit is. When the value of the output Q happens to be 0, it always remains 0. If the output happens to be 1, it always remains 1 There are mainly four types of flip flops that are used in electronic circuits. They are The basic flip flop or S-R Flip Flop Delay Flip Flop [D Flip Flop] J-K flip flop T flip flop 1. S-R Flip Flop The SET-RESET flip flop can be designed with the help of two NOR gates and also two NAND gates. These flip flops are also referred to as S-R Latch. S-R Flip Flop using NOR Gate The flip flop has mainly two inputs, called the SET [S] and RESET [R]. There are also two outputs, Q and Q. The diagram and truth table is shown below. S-R Flip Flop using NOR Gate From the diagram it is evident that the flip flop has mainly four states. They are S=1, R=0-Q=1, Q=0 This state is also called the SET state. S=0, R=1-Q=0, Q=1 This state is known as the RESET state. In both the states you can see that the outputs are just compliments of each other and that the value of Q follows the value of S. S=0, R=0-Q Q = Remember If both the values of S and R are switched to 0, then the circuit remembers the value of S and R in their previous state. S=1, R=1-Q=0, Q=0 [Invalid] This is an invalid state because the values of both Q and Q are 0. They are supposed to be compliments of each other. Normally, this state must be avoided. S-R Flip Flop using NAND Gate The circuit of the S-R flip flop using NAND Gate and its truth table is shown below. S-R Flip Flop using NAND Gate Like the NOR Gate S-R flip flop, this one also has four states. They are S=1, R=0-Q=0, Q=1 This state is also called the SET state. S=0, R=1-Q=1, Q=0 This state is known as the RESET state. In both the states you can see that the outputs are just compliments of each other and that the value of Q follows the compliment value of S. S=0, R=0-Q=1, Q =1 [Invalid] If both the values of S and R are switched to 0 it is an invalid state because the values of both Q and Q are 1. They are supposed to be compliments of each other. Normally, this state must be avoided. S=1, R=1-Q Q= Remember If both the values of S and R are switched to 1, then the circuit remembers the value of S and R in their previous state. Clocked S-R Flip Flop It is also called a Gated S-R flip flop. The invalid state can only be removed by using a bistable SR flip-flop that can change outputs when certain invalid states are met regardless of the condition of either the Set or the Reset inputs. For this, a clocked S-R flip flop is designed by adding two AND gates to a basic NOR Gate flip flop. The circuit diagram and truth table is shown below. Clocked S-R Flip Flop A clock pulse [CP] is given to the inputs of the AND Gate. In the beginning the outputs of both the AND Gates remain 0 until the value of CP is 0. When a pulse is given the value of CP turns 1. This makes the values at S and R to pass through the NOR Gate flip flop. But when both the S and R values turn 1, the HIGH value of CP causes both of them to turn to 0 for a short moment. As soon as the pulse is removed, the flip flop state becomes intermediate. Thus either of the two states may be caused, and it depends on whether the set or reset input of the flip-flop remains a 1 longer than the transition to 0 at the end of the pulse. Thus the invalid states can be eliminated. 2. D Flip Flop The circuit diagram and truth table is given below. D Flip Flop D flip flop is actually a slight modification of the above explained clocked SR flip-flop. From the figure you can see that the D input is connected to the S input and the complement of the D input is connected to the R input. The D input is passed on to the flip flop when the value of CP is 1. When CP is HIGH, the flip flop moves to the SET state. If it is 0, the flip flop switches to the CLEAR state. To know more about the triggering of flip flop click on the link below. TAKE A LOOK :  TRIGGERING OF FLIP FLOPS TAKE A LOOK :  MASTER-SLAVE FLIP FLOP CIRCUIT 3. J-K Flip Flop The circuit diagram and truth-table of a J-K flip flop is shown below. J-K Flip Flop A J-K flip flop can also be defined as a modification of the S-R flip flop such that it is a refinement at the indeterminate state of the SR flip flop. The inputs J and K behave just like the S and R inputs of the S-R flip flop. The letter J stands for SET and the letter K stands for CLEAR. When both the inputs J and K have a HIGH state, the flip-flop is designed to switch to its complement state. So if the value of Q was 1, it switches to Q=0 and if the value of Q was 0 it switches to Q=1. Two 3-input AND Gates are used in the circuit. The output Q of the flip flop is given as a feedback to the input of the AND along with other inputs like K and clock pulse [CP]. So, the flip flop gets a CLEAR signal when the value of CP is 1 only if the value of Q was earlier 1. Similarly output Q of the flip flop is given as a feedback to the input of the AND along with other inputs like J and clock pulse [CP]. So the output becomes SET when the value of CP is 1 only if the value of Q was earlier 1. The output may be repeated in transitions once they have been complimented for J=K=1 because of the feedback connection in the JK flip-flop. This can be avoided by setting a time duration lesser than the propagation delay through the flip-flop. The restriction on the pulse width can be eliminated with a master-slave or edge-triggered construction. 4. T Flip Flop This is a much simpler version of the J-K flip flop. Both the J and K inputs are connected together and thus are also called a single input J-K flip flop. When clock pulse is given to the flip flop, the output begins to toggle. Here also the restriction on the pulse width can be eliminated with a master-slave or edge-triggered construction. Take a look at the circuit and truth table below. T Flip Flop Conclusion Logic gates come in all shapes and sizes, and whether they are used in combinations or individually, they provide the user with many options and solutions to problems which may appear difficult at first. Furthermore, these seven basic logic gates ease the complexity of Boolean algebra and allow for simple application in electronics and circuit analysis. These gates can be used in almost any situation such as comparison of frequencies when developing filters in communication or in more mechanical settings when using choppers and inverters which compare input and output currents to determine modulating indexes

Nature Vs Nurture Philosophy

Nature Vs Nurture Philosophy There is an issue that has been debated upon by philosophers in the past and still so by scientists today. This issue is whether heredity or environment plays a greater role in the determining or shaping of an individuals behavior. It is known as the nature versus nurture debate. Numerous generations before us have deliberated on the reasons behind the development of human behavior. There have been many theories formulated to explain why humans behave the way they do. The surviving theories for behavior derive from physiological and sociological explanations, however, the two explanations have not always been compatible with each other. The famous nature vs. nurture debate over human behavior resulted from conflicting views between proponents of the physiological (nature) and sociological (nurture) explanations. Throughout history, research has swayed popularity back and forth between the theories. Yet, theorists have broken down the line separating nature and nurture.* As of today, people utilize both explanations to explore human behavior. Considerably before our time, early philosophers endeavored to understand the human behavior. As early as 350 BC, such philosophers as Plato and Aristotle tried to understand behavior. *The question of nature or nurture as the primary drive can be traced to these times. Plato believed behavior and knowledge was due to innate factors. Author Fiona Cowie states, The claim that the character of our mental furniture is to a large extent internally rather than environmentally determined found its first substantive defense in the works of Plato (Cowie, ). Plato theorized that all knowledge is present at birth. Plato also believed that the environment played a part in human processes, but he thought it had a unique role. He believed the environment did not teach people anything new, but its purpose was to remind people of information they already knew (Cowie, 1999). Although Platos views are not supported today, he laid the groundwork for other researchers to follow. Alternatively, philosopher Aristotle theorized a different idea about human behavior. He presented the idea that humans are born into the world with a blank slate and peoples behavior and thoughts are due to experience (Ashcraft, 1998). Unlike Plato, Aristotle hypothesized that humans were not born with knowledge, but they acquire it through experience (Ashcraft, 1998). Aristotles idea of the tabula rasa is not believed today. Nevertheless, his belief that the environment was a vital factor in behavior influenced many empiricists throughout history. During the late 1700s, the nature vs. nurture debate began to heat up between philosophers. Internalists (nature) and empiricists (nurture) wrote literature back and forth trying to prove their beliefs and disprove the other theories. Two philosophers, G.W. Leibniz and John Locke, were the main representatives of their respected explanations. Leibniz promoted the externalism point of view. Cowie states, Leibnizs position on this issue is, of course, that the tabula is far from rasa: The soul inherently contains the sources of various notions and doctrines, which external objects merely rouse up (Cowie, 1999). Leibniz argued against Locke and other empiricists stated that there is no way ideas which come into the mind from outside can be formed into beliefs and judgments without the operation of specific internal mechanisms (Cowie, 1999). Simultaneously, John Locke and his fellow philosophers campaigned for empiricism. Like Aristotle, the philosophers believed that humans thoughts and actions were determined not by innate factors, but by their unique experiences (Ashcraft, 1998). Locke argued against the internalists by tentatively examining different human processes such as logic and reasoning. He would ask how it was possible to use logic and reasoning if people were born with all of the knowledge they would ever acquire (Cowie 1999). The contrasting views of the two groups had begun the nature vs. nurture debate, which would linger in the fields of philosophy and psychology for decades. A key point should be made that even though the literalists and empiricists felt strongly about their theories, the explanations were not entirely opposite of each other. Cowie explains, rhetoric aside, both empiricists and nativists are both internalist and externalists about the origin of what is in our minds (Cowie, 1999). Even Leibniz and Locke stated that the philosophies sometimes were only different by the choices of words they used to describe their theories. Leibniz once wrote that fundamentally their views were the same about the nature vs. nurture question (Cowie, 1999). The most recent studies that have been done on twins and adoption use both identical and fraternal twins. This consists in the studying of twins that were separated at birth and grew up in separate homes. Identical twins are 100% genetically similar and offer exact genetic replicas to study, where fraternal twins are the same as any other siblings at 50% similar (Vanderbilt). Some of the final results of these studies show astonishing similarities between identical twins, yet others show little evidence of these similarities. With fraternal twins there is some similarities but none that are complete evidence of the nature theory. These studies fuel the pot for both the nature and the nurture ideas. The nature vs. nurture debate over the last forty years has reached an agreement that they both influence the development of human behavior. In the 1960s, researchers from both theories began to study the interaction of the genes and the environment (Devlin, 1997). Dr. Ann Barnet explains, Even in an unborn baby, genes and environment interact almost from the moment of conception(Barnet, 1998). The statements of Dr. Fausto-Sterling and Dr. Evan Balaban can sum up the interaction between nature and nurture. Fausto-Sterling states, People want simple explanations for hard-core problems. If there was an anti-testosterone drug that we could to inject to make young boys niceit would be easier and cheaper than transforming schoolsor whatever is at the heart of the problem (Barnet, 1998). However, Balaban replies, dont hold your breath if you think looking for genes to help you understand violence. I would put my money on some clever environmental manipulations, because in the end youre goi ng there anyway (Barnet, 1998). The nature vs. nurture debate has produced many research advances in the area of human development. Even though evidence proves that there is an interaction between genes and the environment, people will continue to study the effects of each in development. In these future studies, I hope more groundbreaking advances will be made to aid humans in better understanding human behavior. In the end, that is what both sides of the nature vs. nurture debate intended to accomplish. Works Cited Ashcraft, M. (1998). Fundamentals of Cognition. New York, NY: Longman. Brooks, J. (2004). The process of parenting. (6th ed). Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill. Cowie, F. (1999). Whats Within?. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Devlin, B. (1997). Intelligence, Genes, and Success. New York, NY: Copernicus. Deutschmann, Linda B. (2002). Deviance and Social Control Third Edition. Scarborough, ON: Nelson Thomson Learning. Fujita, Frank. (2000). Nature vs. Nurture. 3/15/2002 from: http://folk.uio.no/roffe/faq/node11.html Hockenbury&Hockenburry. (2003). Discovering Psychology Third Edition. New York, NY: Worth Publishers

Free Death of a Salesman Essays: After the Funeral :: Death of a Salesman

Death of a Salesman: After the Funeral They all return to the house. The fully paid for house. The sight of it brings back a slight sob to Linda's throat, when she reaches the cement stoop her sobbing once again becomes full. Charley looks to her but is at a loss for words. Happy puts his arms around his mother and holds her. Biff only looks on at it all. For a brief second he sees the Willy's fate in Happy's eyes as he holds Linda. Willy's death has brought Biff to know what he is more than ever. He's not a salesman and neither is Happy but Happy is just like is father and Biff fears nothing can be done to change the course of life Happy has chosen upon Willy's death. The small grieving party enters the house and each takes a seat in the living room. Linda has gained control over herself again. No one dares to say a word they each sit by themselves accompanied by their own thoughts. Biff's mind is racing now. Thoughts of how his life will not end like Willy's. Biff has no master plan for his life he just wishes to begin his life. His real life. "Construction" Biff accidentally says allowed. Everyone looks at him. What about construction. Happy says to Biff. Tomorrow I'll look for a job in construction is Biff's reply. I'll start at the bottom and I'll gradually raise my position. Someday maybe architecture or engineering. By god I'm gonna do something with my life weather it's to my families approval or not. Charley looks at Biff and says. Biff I don't know if this is the right time for this. It's sounds like a good idea to me but I honestly don't think this is the time to talk about it. I'm sorry Charley you're right I'm going to bed now I'll see you all tomorrow. Biff stands up stretches his arms and back and goes off to bed. Biff wakes up early the next morning. No one else has woken yet and Charley had gone home the night before. Despite the death of his father hanging over him like a dark, dreary cloud Biff is in an unexplainably great mood. He felt as if his life was just beginning on this day.

Jamaica’s Troubled Past Essay -- A Level Essays

Jamaica’s Troubled Past ‘The Maroons’ Jamaica’s fighting spirit can be seen even in its early days with the Maroons. The fighting spirit is not uncommon with people who are oppressed or forced against their will. The Maroons came in two waves, the first are slaves that fled during the Spanish rule, the second wave was during British control. The Maroons used the highlands of Jamaica to seek refuge, establish colonies and attack plantations when needed. Even today the beliefs and herbal practices of the Maroons are still evident in Jamaican culture. Their trouble past has made their life difficult but even today they are a presence in Jamaica. The First Deserters The idea of runaways did not take long in the Caribbean islands. Jamaica was not the only island experiencing runaways, Haiti, Cuba, and many Latin American countries were all falling victim to these guerilla style warfare tribes. During the first years of Spanish control the island of Hispaniola (Spanish Jamaica) experienced many problems with slaves. Columbus suggested to King Ferdinand in the first letter from his voyage of discovery, "I can bring slaves that are captured people, as many as are wanted." Disease and overwork killed many of the peaceable, indigenous Arawaks. Others hanged themselves, drank poisonous cassava juice, murdered and aborted their children rather than be enslaved. A few, the first Maroons, escaped into the craggy hills. (Olson, pg.234) Recent excavations at Nanny Town, the most important early Maroon settlement, support Maroon oral traditions that the first African refugees found accommodation among the Arawak. (Olson, pg.234) Correspondence from the last decade of the sixteenth century also suggests that Spanish colonial officials w... ...keth. Obeah; Witchcraft in the West Indies. Negro Universities Press. Westport, Connecticut. 1970. Buckley, Roger. Slaves in Red Coats. Yale University Pess, New Haven, CT. 1979. Campbell, Marvis. The Maroons of Jamaica 1655-1796. African World Press, Inc. Trenton, NJ. 1990. Drescher, Seymour. Econocide British Slavery in the Era of Abolition. University of Pittsburgh Press, Pittsburgh, PA. 1977 Hall, Gwendolyn. Social Control in Slave Plantation Societies. The Johns Hopkins Press, Baltimore, Maryland. 1971. Olson, Eric. (Feb 2000). Mountain Rebels: The Flight from Slavery of Jamaicas’s Maroons. World and I v15:2, p234. Available: Expanded Academic Research. Reidell, Heidi. (Jan-Feb 1990). The Maroon culture of endurance. (history of Jamaica's runaway slaves) Americas (English Edition) v42 n1, p46(4). Available: Expanded Academic Research.

April Morning by Howard Fast Book Review Essay

The book April Morning by Howard Fast is a dramatic story of the bloody battle of Lexington set up with a one day structure from the view of a fifteen year old boy turning into a man. In the book we see the life of Adam Cooper changing from child to man in the matter of one day. Each chapter is a different time period of the day telling us what has happened and what the effects were on his life. Adam Cooper is a fifteen-year-old boy living in colonial Lexington, Massachusetts with his family. He feels demoralized by his father, Moses Cooper, but finds consolation from Granny Cooper, his paternal grandmother. When a meeting of the township Committee is called on the evening of April 18th, Adam wishes to attend but his father questions whether or not his son is a man and has earned the right to attend the meeting. Instead of attending the meeting, Adam visits his neighbor Ruth Simmons, a distant relative whom he loves whom he loves and sees himself marrying in the distant future. When his father returns home from the meeting, Adam eavesdrop as Moses tells his wife Sarah and Granny Cooper what happened, as the colonial communities prepare for a possible confrontation with the British army. During the late night early morning, a rider arrives in Lexington, waking up the community with news that the British army is on the march to Concord to take out supplies and ammunition that is being stored by colonists for a possible rebellion. Once the news of the night rider reaches the town the committeemen hold a muster for the militia, and Adam decides to sign the muster book and commit to fighting for the militia. His father is present when he is signing the muster and allows for it to happen. Moses Cooper no longer sees his son as a boy but as a determined man willing to fight for his family and community. Both Adam and his father prepared themselves for the battle and a total of seventy militia men wait for the arrival of the British army. Moses Cooper argues persuasively with the committeemen that the small number of men can’t stand up to the thousands of Redcoat troops they will be greeting alone, and so it’s decided that they will state their case but do no more; they decide to talk it out rather than to fight. However when the British finally reach Lexington, the officers are sneeringly dismissive of the colonists and tell them to leave the common and a mysterious shot is fired causing the British troops to begin firing on the colonists. The British massacred the small militia that stood in front of them, and Adam watched as his father and other men he had known his entire life be shot down. Adam hides in terror and cannot go home because of the British troops in town and it is unsafe. Adam is off to the woods to find the rest of the militia and he is almost discovered by British soldiers, but before they do so are called away to march towards Concord. Adam runs from the British and is shot at by redcoats, only to be caught in the grip of an older colonial man named Solomon Chandler, who helps Adam and provides him with some consolation and food. Adam joins Chandler on his journey to meet up with more members of colonial militias. Along the way, other colonists join the two, also ready to fight the British. Once at the pasture, Adam is greeted by Cousin Simmons and The Reverend, and is relieved that others from the Lexington militia had survived. Though the various town committees and militia have general instructions, there isn’t a single leader chosen to lead the battle. It was a confused time for the colonists fighting and finally Chandler guides them and instructs the men waiting at the pasture to split up into groups according to the firing range of their weapons. Adam and the other men in his group lay under the brush and fire at the redcoats, Adams gun does not reach a far distance so he does not shoot but watches instead; he see the burning of Lexington and the bloodshed of the redcoats. Through the mist of all of the battle Adam seems to fall asleep leaving everyone to believe that he is wounded and dead. When Adam wakes up he finds that the battle has moved to a distant location; he hears Cousin Simmons and The Reverend talking, meets them, and they all agree to go home to Lexington, or what is left of it. Once home Adam is greeted with relief and happiness by the surviving members of his family and others from the town. Adam is now treated like a fully-grown man when he was only recently considered a simple child to everyone. Adam makes peace with his father’s corpse, and then helps to carry the casket to the church. At the church Adam lights some extra candles so his father won’t have to rest in the dark of night. Cousin Simmons makes sure that Adam is aware this battle was only the start, and that he must consider his other responsibilities as the new head of household when deciding if he’ll continue to fight. When Adam returns home his mother is already asleep but Granny Cooper is awake and says she knows he will go back into battle eventually. He puts off the question for the time being, and is relieved to finally go to sleep and end this momentous day. The book is a great and quick read being that it is only 202 pages long. The text gets you involved and makes it feel as if you are there with Adam Cooper through the battles and his day. You feel as if you are standing next to Adam while on the field holding your riffle awaiting the battles. The pressures and emotions that the boy is going through as he transitions into an adult are heartfelt and many people can relate to Adam in some ways. The pressure of becoming a man over night and resuming all these responsibilities he never had to deal with before is a struggle that many can relate too. I personally would definitely recommend this book to my peers as well as to younger and older audiences. This book in my opinion was very good in the fact that it drew me in and kept me wanting to read more as the story went on. I don’t usually like reading and the fact that this book makes me want to keep reading and not stop till it was finished in my opinion makes this a good book. Fast is a great author and knows how to draw in an audience. Overall this was a great book and I would definitely recommend it to all.

Moral Panic Sociology

A moral panic is defined by Cohen as ‘a condition, episode, person or group or persons emerges to become defined as a threat to societal values and interests ‘. In other words, a moral panic is an exaggerated reaction of fear towards a group or issue that causes panic in society, felt and reacted to by the public, media, police, and politicians etc. An example of a moral panic would be the increased fear over knife crime in Britain especially over the last few years. A folk devil is the group/issue at the heart of the panic, which are condemned, feared, labelled and/or blamed.An example of a folk devil would be youths, in relation to knife crime, terrorist, or ‘mods and rockers ‘established in the 1960s. These moral panics and folk devils are created and exacerbated by ‘moral crusaders ‘, the media is most likely the biggest agency that does this. Media reports often greatly exaggerate certain and specific areas of crime or deviance that are aimed to be a moral panic, and to victimize certain groups as folk devils. It reports on, for example, the alleged rising number of knife related crimes, and how a high percentage of youths in a neighbourhood near you are carrying a knife, even if this is a fallacy.  Read also  Sociology and Social Integration.This increase in media attention brings about a what is called a deviancy amplification spiral . This consists of a combination of contributing factors, the increased media attention brings about a heightened sense of public fear, resulting in a real increase in crime, either from the folk devils in question or from copycats, which in turn brings about a police reaction, creating a vicious circle of self-fulfilling prophecies, and the fear and media attention only increases the situation, this spiral also results in these panics lasting a lot longer than perhaps they should.The media uses the weapon of fear to stimulate moral panics, they give the view that firstly these deviant groups offer a threat to the norms, values and attitudes of the majority of society, and that a change will be brought about to people's lives as these cannot be controlled. The media also gives credence to the view that moral standards are declining, and by exaggerating the crime paints the portrait of a country falling into a downward spiral. A conservative media article

Place name disambiguation pages Essay

Have you ever heard the saying, â€Å"Don’t judge a book by its cover† and wondered what it meant? Sandra Cisneros, author of the short story, â€Å"Salvador Late or Early†, creates a frame of mind and brings fourth a sad and sympathetic feeling within the reader towards Salvador; who is a young boy with more weight on his shoulder than any average kid his size should have to bare. Cisneros uses imagery, diction, and characterizes Salvador as solitary, troubled, and as unnoticed child. Who takes on more responsibilities as a young boy than most would imagine at a glance, that any kid would have to endure. Author Sandra Cisneros uses simplistic tone to create a sympathetic frame of mind within the reader by using an range of imagery to grab the readers attention. Cisneros describes Salvador’s responsibilities, the way he looks, and where Salvador lives leaving the reader tender in thought toward Salvador. â€Å"Inside that forty-pound body of boy with its geography of scars, its history of hurt, limbs stuffed with feathers and rags†¦Ã¢â‚¬ (Cisneros) illustrate a weak, flimsy young boy with no sense of hope or direction. Cisneros then goes on to state, â€Å"In that vague direction where homes are the color of bad weather†¦,† painting a dark cloud over the home of Salvador inside the readers mind. Cisneros never gives the reader a specific age for Salvador but we can tell from the diction being used along with the specific details given to us by the author that Salvador is a young boy given an incredible amount of responsibility. The reader can also assume that Salvador has a head of the house type role. Also the reader immediately picks up on how poor Salvador and his family are when Cisneros writes, â€Å"combs their hair with water, feeds them milk and cornflakes from a tin cup in the dim dark of the morning. † This all being done by the young Salvador and by this passage the reader picks up on a depressing feeling that leaves the audience fascinated and worried at the problems this young boy is in. Cisneros labels the main character with great detail that he has a past shrouded in problem and puzzlement which in turn, leaves the reader mind with the question of what could have happened to this boy that left him with such with such a burden to carry. â€Å"Salvador whose name the teacher cannot remember, is a boy who is no ones friend,†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Cisneros) this statement describes Salvador as a loner and not very out spoken considering his own teacher cant remember his name. In conclusion Sandra Cisneros creates a very graphic visualization of the characteristics that help the reader build an image and a diverse amount of feelings towards the character Salvador. Leaving the reader questioning the past of the young boy, which seems to eat away at his inner emotions and will continue to do so until there is nothing left but a empty shell of pain, and agony. Burdened at a young age with the role as the head of the household young, shy, Salvador is faced each day with obstacles not many his age must overcome. Filled with a past full of secrecy, Salvador pushes forward each day braving this storm not only for himself, but for his younger siblings and a â€Å"Mama†, who seems to be on her own also. Described as â€Å"his limbs stuffed with feathers and rags,† (Cisneros) a valid argument can be made that Salvador holds more than just pain, and agony within. One can argue that any young boy who has to burden the trouble and responsibilities that Salvador carries on his shoulders each day represents, the brave and determined will to go on not for himself but for the other he loves and that quality in anyone no matter size, or age makes them an amazing person.

I didn’t do it! †Fear In The Crucible Essay

â€Å"Fear is simply the consequence of every lie†~Fyodor Dostoyevski. Dostoyevski explains that fear and lying come hand to hand. Telling lies creates a fear of being discovered having told a lie. In addition, one only conjures a lie if there is something to hide. Therefore the discovery of secrets also induces fear. Fear, whether it be fear of life, or reputation, can heavily influence the actions of society. It possess the ability to impair the judgement and actions of people. Similarly, in The Crucible by Arthur Miller, the townspeople are completely ruled by fear. This fear is mainly caused by the strict punishments given to those who violate Puritan morals. It also brings along a sense that one must protect his own life and interests. This need for self-preservation leads to widespread denial and in some cases, even the accusation of others. Governed by the terror of Puritanical law, the townspeople learn to fear its consequences and become quick to deny and accuse other s of witchcraft to save themselves, which ultimately leads to the tragic death of innocent citizens Throughout the play, a stifling atmosphere of fear lingers over Salem. This apprehension is caused by the ever-growing possibility of being accused of witchcraft. During this period, even the mentioning of the word â€Å"witchcraft† struck a chord of uneasiness into people. Punishment for this crime was severe and â€Å"a hanging error† (18). Witchcraft is closely associated with hanging and being accused meant one is on his way to death. In addition, witchcraft, according to Judge Danforth, is considered â€Å"ipso facto, on its face and by its nature, an invisible crime†(100). Only â€Å"the witch and the victim† (100) may bear witness to the crime and â€Å"we must rely upon the victims [to] [†¦] testify†(100). The victims, in this case, are the children. Consequently, with such an unjust method of court, the townspeople’s fears are further augmented. Not only do they fear being accused, they fear that their lives will merely become a switch that a few children can turn on or off at a whim. Furthermore, they are intimidated by the judge, Danforth. â€Å"Near to four hundred are in the jails and seventy-two [are] condemned to hang by [his] signature† (87). His power as a judge allows him to essentially kill people with a flick on his pen and the facility to which he does so is terrifying. Therefore it is hardly  surprising that rampant terror resides in the village. Also, the accusation of witchcraft brings one’s reputation into perspective. The fear of having one’s reputation damaged is another key contributor to the village’s overall uneasiness. In the entirety of the play, Parris is paranoid that being associated with witchcraft in any form will deteriorate his position as a reverend. He fears that â€Å"there is a faction that is sworn to drive [him] from his pulpit† (10) and that people may â€Å"compromise [his] very character† (11) if his â€Å"own household is discovered to be the very center of some obscene practice† (11). In addition, John Proctor not only exhibits fear for his reputation, but fear for his life as well. Proctor fears for his own life because he had an affair with Abigail. Lechery was punishable by hanging. In addition, if others discover his affair, it will dishonor his name. As a result of the strict laws imposed on Puritan society, fear finds its way into Salem, filling every possible aspect of life and leaving no crack overlooked. With nowhere to hide from this terror, the inhabitants of Salem are forced to find refuge in their lies instead. A fear for existence causes the townsfolk to instinctively prioritize their own well being in an attempt for self preservation. This sense of self preservation naturally induces widespread lying and denial as the townspeople desperately struggle to maintain their own interests, whether they be life or reputation. Being affiliated with witchcraft automatically threatened one’s life and status. Reverend Parris, being the religious leader of Salem, is expected to uphold Puritan ethic, and be an example for the rest of the town. However when his â€Å"daughter and niece [are] discovered dancing like heathen in the forest† (10), he fears that his reputation is brought into question because he thinks, that people â€Å"will howl [him] out of Salem for such corruption in [his] house† (14). As a result, when the suspicion of witchery comes up, Parris instantly dismisses it and â€Å"pray[s] leap not to witchcraft† (14). Parris’s role as minister means that any association of his that has anything to do with witchcraft is a threat to the security of his position and it is shown that he is quick to deny it. Likewise, Abigail and the girls are trapped in a dilemma. After being discovered summoning charms, they find themselves hounded into a corner by the suspicions that are laid upon them. She and the girls lie about their  witchcraft in the woods in an attempt for self-preservation, â€Å"Why–common dancing is all† (42). Because calling the Devil is hanging crime, the children deny their witchcraft and claim to have danced in order to lessen their punishment which is another example of preserving oneself. John Proctor is another character whose lying is induced by his life threatening secrets. As he once said, â€Å"there are them that will swear to anything before they’ll hang† (69). Both him and Abigail abide by this precept. In Proctor’s case he denies his former relationship with Abby because it ruins his image in his wife’s eyes and because it is lechery. He tells Abby to â€Å"wipe it out of mind† and claims that â€Å"we never touched† (23). By denying their affair, it is shown that Proctor fears the consequences that may arise and possesses an innate sense of self-preservation. Abigail on the other hand, goes to even greater lengths to protect herself from the harsh penalties of the law. Her need for self preservation is so strong, that she even lies to the judge, denying that she had an affair with Proctor and that she was previously pretending in court. When Abigail is asked to confirm her affair with Proctor, she threatens Danforth saying, â€Å"If I must answer that, I will leave and I will not come back again!† (111). This demonstrates that Abigail is aware of her actions but will not admit it for doing so will mark her as a perpetrator of innocent murder. In addition, her denial is influenced by the risk of death by lying to the court. It is evident that the widespread fear in this society is a driving force that compels the characters to behave in ways that will protect their status and lives. However, this denial becomes an issue when others are dragged into the fire. When denial does not sufficiently channel away the suspicions laid upon them, some characters go so far as to accuse others. This leads to undesirable consequences, such as the loss of many innocent lives, that soon become unstoppable. Mary Warren is one of many characters who point fingers to others in order to save themselves. Characterized as an unsteady, and unconfident person, Mary is easily overcome by the fear of execution. During her testimony to the court, Proctor’s plan to prove Abigail as a witch goes terribly wrong. Rather than rhaving Abigail accused, Danforth charges Mary with lying to the court and she suddenly finds that she has become the victim. As a result, she blames Proctor, â€Å"You’re the Devil’s man! I’ll not  hang with you! [†¦] you come at me by night and every day to sign [†¦] The Devil’s book† (118). This shows that after being overwhelmed with fear, Mary’s anxiety explodes and she decides to ac cuse the very person who dragged her into court in an attempt to free herself from the spotlight. Consequently, John Proctor, a man innocent of witchcraft is hung. More crucial however, are the accusations made by the children. Led by Abigail, the children, at first, pretend to be bewitched because it was considered sport. They soon learn that by doing so, they are exempt from witchcraft as they are considered ‘God’s fingers’. By taking this position, the girls free themselves from accusation and all suspicion which is the ideal position to be in. During Mary’s testimony, Danforth becomes increasingly convinced that she is telling the truth. This places more suspicion on Abigail and the girls. As a result, they resort to accusing Mary Warren of sending her spirit out to them, â€Å"Mary, do you send this shadow on me?† (109). In another instance, while the girls are being questioned about who they saw with the Devil, they proceed to chant out the names of random townsfolk, â€Å"I saw Bridget Bishop with the Devil! I saw George Jacobs with the Devil! I saw Goody Howe with the Devil† (48). Furthermore, Abigail herself, partakes in these accusations even while she is outside of court. When Hale presses her with questions relating to her witchcraft, her slave enters â€Å"and instantly Abigail points at Tituba† saying, â€Å"She made me do it! She made Betty do it!† (43). Again, Abigail frames someone in order to save her own life. With the blame now in Tituba, she, in return, claimed she saw Goody Good and Goody Osburn with the Devil. These repeated accusations continue unchecked and soon, the entire town is enveloped with an atmosphere of fear. These false accusations also cause the trials to be prolonged. Because of all these accusations, more and more people are sent to court. With the corrupt children as juries, more and more are sentenced to the grave. The extent to which the townspeople go to in order to save themselves ultimately results in widespread injustice and executions. For the entirety of the play, the townspeople are smothered with an ever-growing atmosphere of fear. With its cold judges, corrupted juries, and severe punishments, it is not surprising that such an element of fear was present in Salem. In return, the people develop an instinct for self  preservation which requires denial to achieve. However, such widespread denial and lies result in unchecked accusations. These accusations are often carried through and the fear of death soon spreads. Therefore a never ending cycle of terror is the outcome and the town ultimately gives way to chaos.

Answer those question about dance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Answer those question about dance - Essay Example Creative movements would work for children under twelve years of age who are learning and discovering their strengths while improvision can be used in teens and adults who are aware of their interests. The specialist should expect the dancers to be more fit, better concentration and sensory awareness. Question 2: The dancer, choreographer and the audience member are all equal parties in the event since they all complement each other. This is because the choreographer demonstrates certain traits that the dancer learns through continuous training, in order to improve his performance. In a live performance, the dancer performs to the audience, which will interpret, understand the dancer’s message and comment on the performance through acclamation. Therefore, they are all important to each other. Question 3: Court ballet originated form the Italian Renaissance courts of the 15th century. Romantic ballet was a ballet dance that featured female dancers that sensually moved their bodies. Classical ballet was the traditional form of ballet that featured Enrico Cocchetti as a great dancer. Neo-classical ballet was a modernised form of classical ballet in which George Balanchine thrived. He was the initiator of contemporary ballet that permitted a greater range of movements than the neo-classical ballet. Question 4: Modern dance started in the early 1900s in response to ballet, which was majorly used in concerts. It involved a wide range of styles as compared to ballet. There were many styles such as those initiated by Graham and Horton. The mid-century was characterised by combining modern dance and ballet elements. There was a lot of improvisation and performance art incorporation. It is different today form the jazz, ballet and tap dance in that it allows a lot of individualistic ideas and incorporated style and fashion. Question 5: The social dances in the 1980s featured dances

Describe Roman imperialistic influences on Africa including the Punic Essay

Describe Roman imperialistic influences on Africa including the Punic Wars with Carthage and the roman cleoparta alliance and warfare - Essay Example Tunisia and the rest of North Africa where Carthage was situated experienced misery, loss of lives and poverty as the Romans in 146 BC vanquished Carthage and burnt it to the ground. The protracted nature of the Punic Wars underscores the aforementioned losses, since logically, the more protracted a battle is, the higher the collaterals are incurred. Particularly, the first Punic War was waged in 264 BC, the second, 218-202 BC and the ultimate, 146 BC (Dio, 1987). According to Dio (1987), the influence and presence of the Roman Empire in Africa also led to the annexation of different kingdoms such as the Ptolemaic Kingdom. Initially, the Ptolemaic kingdom began when Ptolemy I Soter created a large Hellenistic state spanning from Cyrene to Syria. An alliance would later be formed between Cleopatra and Antony at Tarsus in 41 BC, making the relations between Roman Empire and the Ptolemaic Kingdom more close-knit. Although Cleopatra intended to use the alliance to consolidate her political power, yet it made it easier for the Roman Empire to later annex the kingdom. Likewise, the Roman Empire spurred onwards, mercantilism and commerce in Africa. This is especially the case, since the Roman Empire maintained close contacts with African provinces which featured among the wealthiest in the Empire after Italy and Syria, trade within the Mediterranean region and coast, northern Africa and Italy became rife. This mercantilism was further aided by the Roman roads which had very dense and comprehensive

Emily Dickinson Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Emily Dickinson - Assignment Example â€Å"The categories then are, in Anderson’s summery, â€Å"art, nature, the self, death and its sequel†. He then observes that these categories are in no sense hard and fast, or mutually exclusive.† (Emily Dickinson Handbook, PP 186). Anderson’s reading tries to summarize Emily Dickinson’s poems; but admits that the thematic structure of her poems is too complex to be summarized that easily. The eccentric recluse: Emily Dickinson was what we might call an eccentric who wished to remain a child for ever. Her letters repeatedly express this wish. She was a recluse who wore only white dress through out her entire adult life. Though she talks of her love, both in her poetry and in her letters, she remained unmarried and it is not clear whether these lovers were real or imaginary. She grew lonelier after the age of thirty and never left her house. She almost lived closed door in her room with a window that opened out to the nature. â€Å"I am no body! Who are you? / Are you nobody too? / Then there’s a pair of us! –don’t tell! / They’d banish us you know. ... She refused to leave her room even when she was dying. She very rarely met a special visitor. She depended on her sister Lavinia for her food and other needs; she loved the children of her brother. It is said that she used to lower sweets and baked goods through a pulley outside her window for the children of her home and the neighborhood. She lived alone and wrote poems, without the burden of the usual mediocre woman duties. Even her sister Lavinia came to know of the over 1700 poems of her sister after her death only. But she was in touch with the outside world through her correspondence, the most important of which were her letters to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, the American author and Unitarian minister. On April 16, 1862 Higginson received a letter from a 32 year old woman from Amherst, Massachusetts, which included four poems of hers. They were marked â€Å"not for publication†! The letter started like this â€Å"Mr. Higginson, are you too deeply occupied to say if my v erse is alive? .The mind is so near itself it cannot see distinctly, and I have none to ask†. (Atlantic Monthly, October 1891, PP 444) The words poetically echoes the soul of a lonely being, with nothing else than poetry to hold close to her heart. In 1891 Higginson wrote in an article about this early correspondence. â€Å" The impression of a wholly new and original poetic genius† he said , â€Å" was as distinct on my mind at the first reading of these four poems , as it is now after thirty years of further knowledge ; and with it came the problem never yet solved , what place ought to be assigned in literature , to what is so remarkable , yet so elusive of criticism† ( Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson, PP6). Higginson became her mentor and encouraged

Automobile Brake Disc and Pad Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Automobile Brake Disc and Pad - Essay Example However, in special cases such as in racing cars or for people with disability, hands may be used as a means of enhancing efficiency, according to Owen (2010). It is very interesting that many people still wonders how a small peddle, in the form of a car brake is able to stop a huge car in motion with just a slight press of the brake. Similarly, it is still a mystery to many people, how it happens, though people increasingly understand the working system of a car brake. Basically, when a driver presses the brakes with the help of the legs, a force is transmitted from the driver’s foot to the brakes via a fluid. However, since the car needs a much greater force than applied by the leg to stop, the car normally multiplies the force applied by the foot. The braking system then transmits the force to the car tires and consequently the tires transmit the force to the road where the friction law applies and the car stops (Erjavec, 2008). Car brakes are of two types, namely drum and disc brakes. Drum brakes is a type of breaking system that stops a car in motion by friction, when brake shoes are pressed against the drum. Drum brakes have many components that are important for its operation. These include drum, piston, wheel cylinder, return spring, brake shoe, stud, brake pads, wheel hub, and brake lining. The existence of these components makes it easy for drivers to stop vehicles easily by applying just a little pressure on the brake pedal (Gilles, 2005). Disc brakes, on the other hand, are a round, flat metallic pieces that spin together with the wheel. When brakes are applied against the wheel, a caliper squeezes the brake pads against the disc (rotor) thereby causing friction that makes the wheel to slow down and eventually stop. Disc brakes consist of different components such as brake pads, the caliper that has a piston and the rotor usually mounted to the hub. Research indicates that most modern cars are increasingly adopting the use of disc brakes fixe d in front of the wheels while others have disc brakes on all the four wheels (Erjavec, 2003). An example of a disc brake (brake rotor) commonly used on modern cars is the single-piston floating caliper. The most striking feature of this rotor is that it is both self-centering and self-adjusting. The caliper here is capable of sliding from side to side thereby making it move to the center every time the brakes are applied. In addition, since this type of disc lacks the spring to pull the pads away from the disc, the pads normally stay intact with the rotor. This is crucial since the pistons in the brakes have a larger diameter than those in the master cylinder. In case the pistons retract into their cylinders, the brake pedal might require several applications to be able to pump enough fluid into the brake cylinder so as to engage the brake pads (Gilles, 2005). The type of brake rotor one buys depends greatly on the type of vehicle that one drives, as well as the type of driving one does. For instance, carbon reinforced rotors were the most commonly used discs in racing cars such as in Formula One racing cars. This is based on its ability to get heated up to high temperatures needed for proper braking. However, this is no longer the case as it has been replaced by the carbon-fiber reinforced ceramic brake rotor, which is the most preferred for use currently in racing cars. This is attributed to its high performance on the road. For example, high performance cars such as the latest Porsche Carrera GT, Corvette ZR1, and Ferrari Enzo use ceramic