Autocratic Leadership Style Essay

Can an authoritarian/autocratic/directive leadership style be appropriate in American companies currently? If yes/no, why? It is first important to clarify what the term leadership means. According to Kinicki & Fugate (2012), â€Å"leadership is defined as ‘a social influence process in which the leader seeks the voluntary participation of subordinates in an effort to reach organizational goals’† (p. 364). This means leadership involves exercising authority at individual, group, and organizational levels. Bass (2008) identifies positive leadership traits to include task competence, interpersonal competence, intuition, traits of character, biophysical traits, and personal traits. With this basic understanding of leadership, it can be said that the appropriateness of an autocratic leadership style depends on the type of company and situation at hand—the idea of situational leadership (Kinicki & Fugate, 2012, p. 370). Even though the United States is a democratic country, an autocratic leadership style fits some but not all companies, depending on what the company wants to accomplish and what the company’s circumstances are. A manager with an autocratic style of leadership typically does all the decision-making without getting input from his/her subordinates (Rao, 2010, para. 3). Therefore, the manager is the authoritarian while all the subordinates are to simply follow instructions without giving their own thoughts or concerns about the task given to them. A benefit of this style is it can help provide structure and discipline to an otherwise inexperienced team, and also help a team stay on top of strict deadlines. Since the manager makes all the decisions, there is no time â€Å"wasted† on decision-making if there’s a time constraint. This type of leadership is also helpful when the manager has the highest amount of knowledge and could therefore specifically guide the subordinates on how to complete a task (Cherry), or when a type of industry simply does not require much communication or creativity relative to other industries. However, an autocratic style of leadership would be ill-fitting for many other types of companies, especially if the autocratic style is taken to extremes. As the textbook Organizational Behavior mentions, a bad leader would possess traits like being incompetent, rigid, or callous (Kinicki & Fugate, 2012, p. 366). Since a manager taking up an autocratic style of leadership is enforcing rigid rules, it could be potentially easy to become rigid as a person as well, which could lead to loss of respect from subordinates and ruin morale of the team. Cherry states that abuse of the style can make a person seem â€Å"controlling, bossy, and dictatorial,† and that this autocratic style of leadership prevents subordinates from producing creative solutions to problems. Giving employees such a lack of influence in the company could cause them to feel resentful since their opinions are never heard (â€Å"Leadership Styles,† 2008, para. 3-4), which means valuable relationships cannot be developed, thus straining human and social capital. An example of where an autocratic style of leadership would not be appropriate is if all the subordinates are just as knowledgeable or skilled as the manager. It would make more sense to use a democratic style of leadership so that everyone can participate and have a sense of importance in the decision-making, and because of their contribution, would feel more committed and enthusiastic about the company’s goals. Situational leadership theories suggest that â€Å"the effectiveness of a particular style of leader behavior depends on the situation.† This applies to how the appropriateness of the autocratic style of leadership depends on the company at hand. It is important to fully analyze the employee characteristics (locus of control, experience, task ability, etc.) and environmental factors (task structure and work-group dynamics) to decide whether or not an autocratic style of leadership would produce the most desirable results for the company (Kinicki & Fugate, 2012, p. 370-372). References Bass, B.M., & Bass, R. (2008). The Bass handbook of leadership. New York: Free Press. Cherry, K. Lewin’s leadership styles. About.com: Psychology. Retrieved from http://psychology.about.com/od/leadership Cherry, K. What is autocratic leadership?. About.com: Psychology. Retrieved from http://psychology.about.com/od/leadership Kinicki, A., & Fugate M. (2012). Organizational behavior: Key concepts, skills, and best practices. Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. Leadership styles: Autocratic leadership. (2008). Leadership-toolbox.com, pp. 3-4. Retrieved from http://www.leadership-toolbox.com/autocratic-leadership.html Rao, M.S. (2010). Is autocratic leadership relevant today?. Chief Learning Officer: Solutions for Enterprise Activity. Retrieved from http://clomedia.com/articles

Nagel, Chisholm, and Locke †Metaphysics of the Mind Essay

It is very difficult to attribute characteristics to a mind when we know it does not actually exist in the physical realm. Though, personal identity has been connected to the mind. However, it is tricky to determine what exactly comprises one’s personal identity. Although it is a difficult concept to grasp, philosophers such as Nagel and Chisholm attempt to construct their own position on the characteristics of the mind. By comparing Nagel and Chisholm’s positions on personal identity, it is evident that identity is a development of both body and mind. Nagel shows that we cannot properly identify a mind, and if this is the case then it is impossible to attribute personal identity to a mind. In turn, he attacks the idea that personal identity can be defined in terms of physical attributes. Chisholm shows that although things are constantly changing, they still remain the same. He argues that it is the mind that holds our identity, regardless of physical alteration. In my view, the physicalist perspective of identity is the most logical when contrasted to the mentalist argument simply due to the fact that we do have a self-identity, and Nagel does not attempt to define what it is. Locke’s argument finds a middle ground between Nagel and Chisholm as he argues for a conscious and bodily continuity of the mind. In order to identify the mind-body problem and argue that identity is a development of the mind, Nagel’s position must be analyzed. Firstly, when addressing the mind-body problem, Nagel states that one cannot explain the mind body relationship through logic, functions, or intentions. He argues that these states can be ascribed to robots that may indeed behave like people, however robots do not experience anything, and it is experience that influences the mind (436). Nagel’s bat analogy helps solidify his position on experience which is that no one can experience the same thing as another. He claims that; â€Å"even to form a conception of what it is Kristen Biduk 6949215 like to be a bat†¦one must take up the bat’s point of view† (442). Meaning, one must have the same thinking patterns as the other which Nagel argues is impossible. He argues that it is our consciousness which provides the mind-body problem. Although one can relate to what it is like to be a bat, it is impossible to fully comprehend it because in order to become a bat, conscious-ness must be forgotten. For that reason, one cannot know that others have a mind, but one can perceive that they do. Chisholm opens his argument with providing an analysis of the Ship of Theseus and explains that identity is transitive, meaning that it is always changing. Similarly, he uses the example of the river and how although it is the same exact river, it is given different identities based on geographical location. The identity of the river is changing. Based on his view of alteration, Chisholm suggests three possibilities for alteration and identity. Firstly, we can deny the transitivity of identity, but he proves this to be a problem. His second suggestion is that nothing alters, but this too proves to be problematic. For example, if one was to cross the border of the United States of America and the border patrol officer asked if he was the same as the person in the photo, he would say no. Because, when that photo was taken he had certain characteristics, and now, x amount of years later he has different characteristics, and is therefore a different person. Clearly this is an issue. Thirdly, he analyzes Butler’s position on the misuse of the word ‘is’ in that, for example; there exists something at a certain place (P) at a certain time (t) that is identical with same thing at a different place (Q) at a different time (t1). By saying identical, he means they exist in together, however it is mathematically impossible. He concludes that such things are entia per alio (made of). Entia per alio is something that exists because a Kristen Biduk 6949215 mind makes it up. For example, a pencil is entia per alio because without a mind, it is simply an object. The mind makes the pencil an object for writing. Without a mind giving meaning to something, that something has no identity. In regards to self-identity, I find it difficult to agree with the mentalist perspective. Nagel’s writing, â€Å"What is it like to be a Bat? † does not provide sufficient insight to the development of self and self-identity. He bases his writing solely based on defining the mind. It is true to say that we cannot properly identify a mind. How can we as a whole, understand something we do not actually know exists? We can assume it exists but it provides no understanding. Based on this belief, Nagel concludes that because we cannot properly identify a mind, we cannot connect personal identity to a mind. But where can we find our personal identity? He claims that our identity does not lie within our physical attributes which leaves identity suspending in the air. The mentalist perspective is limiting in the sense that it does not take in to account outside variables that can impact one’s identity. We are not born with an identity and I feel as though Nagel’s position is implying that we are. Additionally, our identity is developed from our consciousness, and we do not become conscious of ourselves at infancy. We develop our self-identity through time and it is consistently changing. Chisholm is much more realistic when it comes to defining personal identity. We cannot assume that our identity is purely based on our minds, for our minds are influenced by our physicality. In turn, our physicality is influenced by society. We identify with ourselves based on what others think of us. For example, if someone weighs three hundred pounds, they may identify themselves as unhealthy because that is what society has told them. Similarly, if that three hundred pound person lost weight and now weighed one hundred and thirty pounds, that Kristen Biduk 6949215 person may identify themselves as healthy. If they used diet and exercise as a method to lose the weight, they may identify as athletic. This proves that personal identity is indeed transitive. It will always be in a constant state of change depending on the influences around them. We have identity because others around us have provided us with our identity. One could argue then that if one was to lose only ten pounds then identity will not change because the change is only slight. If we analyze the Ship of Theseus once more, Chisholm argues that slight changes still have an impact on our identity because our identity is always changing. By using the problem of Theseus’s ship however, it gives us ideas of identity for inanimate objects. One could argue that it is not relatable to beings with consciousness however I would have to disagree. Our consciousness, or our memories are what hold our self-identity. If we lose an arm or leg, we are still the same person because our minds still hold our memory. While the mentalist perspective does not take into account physical impressions, and the physicalist perspective lacks some insight on our own consciousness, Locke provides an explanation that touches on both sides. Locke argues for a conscious continuity and not a bodily one. He begins with clarifying that all minds have a common structure wherein there are two qualities within our identity: primary and secondary. The primary quality consists of consciousness. I can identify with myself because I am conscious of my own existence. The secondary qualities consist of qualities that are changing, such as hair length or weight. He insists that our primary qualities are what provide us with identity however he agrees that secondary qualities must be analyzed. Our secondary qualities are always changing while our primary qualities are static. Without the secondary qualities, our identity would not change, Kristen Biduk 6949215 which Chisholm proved. In comparison to both Nagel and Chisholm, Locke’s argument holds the truest because he takes into account both perspectives and develops the most logical understanding of identity. Additionally, Locke states that there is a first and third person perspective on identity. The first person identity is what one makes of himself. The third person helps confirm one’s identity. Both of these together help form one’s true personal identity. For one without outside influences has nothing to base their identity on. For example, if one was to look at cases of people raised in isolation, it will be seen that they have no sense of reality or identity. They were left to their own thoughts with no outside stimulation. When they leave their isolated prisons, they rediscover their identity by identifying with their outside influences. In conclusion, it is almost impossible to justify the mind/body problem. Both Nagel and Chisholm’s perspectives on identity are fairly vague and both lack a deeper understanding of the mind. I truly believe that it is the mind that holds our identity. However an identity is highly structured by its outside influences. Without a body or without society, one would have no identity. Some can argue that there can be a mind without a body, but it just doesn’t make rational sense. If hypothetically, one was to have their mind switched into a different body, he would still identify as himself. For it is our mind that holds our identity, however our mind is within a body.

Fan fiction Essay

Fan Fiction writing is the act of writing material with information from someone without their consent either written or otherwise. The written material is then released to the public on grounds that show the material as owner’s original; and doesn’t acknowledge it as re-edited. This will appear as the original material given that the reader had not had a chance to get the very original material. I want to agree that this activity is not legitimate one, the fact that a writer (author) writes their work and it goes into the public arena doesn’t require reframing or amendments. If the reader thinks of that work in another version, let it remain within them. Let not that which they think would have been better of; go out to the public. Interfering with this is wrong. Supposing all the fans decided to alter this original material into their way and everyone has a different understanding of same article? Letting this out to the public as well? Would not people get confused? I believe if a writer wants an opinion about their article, they know how to go about it, they know where to send it or who to give it to before it is released to the public. By the time it is getting to the public it is usually the writer’s best on that. I quite disagree that fun fiction should be a way of improving young writer’s skills of writing. Why cant these young writers come up with themes yet not released to the public and write on them? Why can’t they also get creative? There are so many things that the writers have not covered so far. It is also so wrong for fan writers to write an article and post it using the original writer’s names. Is this not theft? Is it not offensive to impersonate? The text showed this â€Å"Fan fiction is a good way to avoid learning how to be a writer. Fan fiction allows the writer to pretend to be creating a story, while using someone else’s world, characters, and plot. Coloring Barbie’s hair green in a coloring book is not a great act of creativity. Neither is putting lipstick on Ken. Fan fiction does exactly those kinds of things. † A very good example given on the text ‘the extreme analogy: You send me a photograph of your family reunion, titled ‘The Herkimer’s Get together’. I think it looks dull. So I Photo-Shop it to put your friends and relations into compromising positions in various stages of undress. Then I post it on the Internet, under the title ‘The Herkimer’s Get Together’, and add a note that it was sent to me from Pete Herkimer of Missoula, Montana. Suddenly there is your face and name, and the faces of the people you care about, doing things that you would never do. Are you flattered that I thought your photograph was interesting enough to use? Or are you insulted and horrified? Are you alarmed that I so clearly connected work that is not yours to your good name? Although I must agree with the statement from the text ‘And†¦ As for definitions, to what extent is Paradise Lost a fan fiction of the Bible? To what extent is Tennyson’s ‘Ulysses’ a fan fiction of the Odyssey? For much of human history, the concept of creative ownership Hobb seems to be using was thoroughly different: characters could be reused and rewritten as seen fit. Even given the capitalist ‘ownership’ argument, which I personally find distasteful, narrow-minded, and restrictive, once again, the fan fiction under discussion is NON-COMMERCIAL’ There are those exceptions that would be allowed, the example of Paradise lost, and this seems to be a clearer edition of the Bible as far this generation is concerned. The fact that it is a book used for the continuity of the salvation of human race may need to be re-edited but the change of theme may not be altered. Another importance of fan fiction may be an act that is based on a book and probably is used for literature in schools. The author may have not written it as a play but someone else may act it and this way students may understand the book better as compared to reading it. I know that all the fan writers have a different way of looking at a particular article from that of the original writer and that is they want to reframe it, but I wonder where they were when the story was being created in that way which they don’t settle for. Keeping any ideas of how it should have looked to oneself is the best thing. Can’t people respect the work of others and promote original text writings? Fun fiction sometimes may even change the whole outlook of a story, there must be reasons why an author/writer decides to use some words and leave out others. There is a reason why the chapters in a book follow each other the way they do. In case a fan writer for example interferes with the flow of chapters and decides to bring the last chapter in the middle then any other reader might not find a reason of reading the book to the end. The flow is changed therefore the conclusion of the story comes in the middle, so why go ahead and read what you already know? Fan fiction sometimes is used on the internet, whereby an article from a newspaper may be used and with the application of coral draw; alteration may happen. When this same article is sent to people on the net, it might just convince them since they can see that it is from a legitimate source from a well known editor or writer. While this may happen on basis of malice and once the damage is caused rectifying it may be hard. So generally I know that fan fiction may be damaging. All writers have a chance of developing good writing skills but not through fan fiction as written the text ‘The first step to becoming a writer is to have your own idea. Not to take someone else’s idea, put a dent in it, and claim it as your own. You will learn more from writing one story of your own, no matter how bad it is, than the most polished Inuyasha fan fiction that you write. Taking that first wavering step out into the unknown territory of your own imagination is what it is all about. When you can write well enough to carry a friend along, then you’ve really got something. But you aren’t going to get anywhere clinging to the comfort of saying, â€Å"If I write a Harry Potter story, everyone will like it because they already like Harry Potter. I don’t have to describe Hogwarts because everyone saw the movie, and I don’t have to tell Harry’s back story because that’s all done for me. † I agree with this statement totally. A good writer should have their own ideas and develop those ideas into stories. Reading more will help any writer get skill and get broader but fan fiction writing is demeaning to any writer. It makes a writer wholly rely on an article already thought and written instead of promoting the unique ideas any individual writer may be able to come up with. The danger of letting this continue is that we will never know what the original writer of a story intending us to know. We can never differentiate between fiction and true story. My conclusion would be depending on the intention of the fan fiction writer; this is how it can be looked at as a legal act or an illegal one. The writer in the text who is against this uses so harsh language and I found it not fair since it is not everyone who writes for fan fiction has a bad motive. â€Å"Look, the original author really screwed up the story, so I’m going to fix it. Here is how it should have gone†.

Identify the major trends that have influenced world trade and global Term Paper

Identify the major trends that have influenced world trade and global marketing - Term Paper Example Many countries have opened up their economies as part of Free Trade and is having an impact on the global economy. The main strength of Free Trade is that, it puts forward the notion that minimalistic state role or intervention resulted in better economy and importantly better society. Free trade proposes that human well-being can best be advanced by liberating individual entrepreneurial freedoms and skills within an institutional framework characterized by strong private property rights, free markets, and importantly free trade (Harvey 2). From earlier times, many Third World countries including Asian and African countries only indulged in agriculture for their livelihood. However, globalization and the opening up their markets as Free Trade regimes, these countries and their governments started to focus on industrial development, by improving their own industries and importantly by facilitating entry of foreign companies. They enticed the foreign companies with a slew of beneficial financial and social schemes. Foreign firms for their part optimally invested tapping the existing cheap labor and other resources, thereby garnering for themselves good profits. Importantly, a sizeable portion of good profits reached the local employees, thereby improving their economic standing and also optimizing country’s economy. Apart from this major trend of globalization, another major trend that is influencing global marketing is the concept of green marketing. Marketing’s traditional axiom so far has been â€Å"give customers what they want† and â€Å"sell as much as you can† (Ottman, Stafford and Hartman 2006). However, in today’s business environment, sustainability is the key word with natural environment given clear importance along with the business motives. Another trend is that of consumer knowledge increase with regards to impact of products and processes on their

The internationalization of Cambridge Satchel Company Essay

The internationalization of Cambridge Satchel Company - Essay Example The paper tells that the services and products of the business are designed so that they can easily be adaptable to different culture and languages. This is one potential strategy that is being utilized increasingly by organizations to increase profits margin, increase their market share, maximize their size, and become the industry leader. It is the core attribute to the ongoing strategy process of many business firms which determines the development that is going on and change in the international firm in terms of scope, values, business ideas, principles, action orientation, converging of norms and nature of work. All these aspects of the process of strategy are related to the international dimension and thus the firm becomes ‘Transnational’. In the global competition, it is crucial for the firm to be transnational and internationalization process mainly focuses on the individual firm’s development on its integration, gradual acquisition, and use of knowledge a bout foreign operations and markets. The decision of internationalization by a firm is specifically to acquire profits. The first internationalization of The Cambridge Satchel Company was the opening of the opening of the first physical store in New York at 31 James Street. The 3,239 sq ft opened on the 7th October 2014. Deane’s kids were her motivation to starting and internationalizing the business that she started with her mother in 2008 when she needed to raise adequate money to transfer her daughter who was eight by then away from bullies to a private school. All this was possible because Deane was a focused businesswoman. The Cambridge Satchel Company had just secured $21m of funding that came from Index Ventures, the venture capitalist that is backing the online fashion retailers Asos, Nasty Gay and Net-a-Porter as well as technology companies like Dropbox and SoundCloud. This was the first ever funding of the company and they had never taken on any debt either, althou gh she was tight-lipped regarding how much was bought by equity index. It was not easy to give away a portion of the company but after two years of careful thought. It took long for to convince herself that she could actually find somebody who could exactly be she felt was necessary for her brand.

Analysis of an International Organization Research Paper

Analysis of an International Organization - Research Paper Example For airlines, it is necessary to have a strong team of professional enthusiastic individuals to make the business a success. Like every business in the service sector, airlines too require their workforce to be internally satisfied so that this behavior of theirs is reflected in their behavior with the customers. If one looks up ‘HR challenges faced by United Airlines’ online, every search engine gives an array of links that discuss the failing, almost embarrassing, situation of the airlines. Since its merger, it has faced a number of problems that range from operational inefficiency to lack of HR training. In the world of today, where options at hand are plenty and the organizations need to stand out through effective strategies and customer orientation, this is not a good business scenario. For every service business, the customer touch point is an essential deal maker or breaker. The moment a customer interacts with an employee representing the service organization, he gets a taste of the organizational culture and sets a service expectation standard. Customer satisfaction is the ultimate goal of such organizations. The major HR problems faced by United Airlines are as follows: -Lack of a strong organizational culture after the merger: After United Airlines made the acquisition of Continental Airlines, there was a lack of effort on the management’s side to unify the workforce so that there is a uniform sense of dedication towards the ‘United’ brand (Busmanagement.com). Even though efforts were made to gather the best talents from both the sides of the merger, the company still faces issues with bringing all its employees to term with their merger. -Lack of employee training programs: the employees are not trained to be customer oriented which reflects in their service levels. Their focus is on getting their work done and not making sure that the customers are made to feel genuinely valued and cared for. This is

Assessment of risk management perceptions and practices of Essay

Assessment of risk management perceptions and practices of construction contractors in Saudi Arabia - Essay Example ) of Participants List of Figures Figure 1 – Risk Classification Figure 2 – Research Design Acknowledgement I have to mention and give thanks to the people who have provided help and inspiration in making this paper. To Mr. _________ for allowing me to use some of his insights and for giving suggestions; To my family and friends for the support at a time that I almost wanted to give up; And lastly, to Almighty God, for granting me the chance to use time and space to make life exciting and challenging, and student life worth remembering. Contents Title Page No. Author Declaration †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 2 Abstract †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 3 List of Tables †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã ¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 4 List of Figures †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 4 Acknowledgement†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.5 Chapter 1 Introduction †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦8 1.1 Significance of the Study †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 9 1.2 Problem Statement †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 9 1.3 Aim of the Research †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦,,. 10 1.4 Objectives †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 10 1.5 Justification †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 10 Chapter 2 Methodology †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 12 2.1 Introduction †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 12 2.2 The Methods... This paper will delve on the vast literature on risk management, concepts and definition of risk management, risk assessment, and concepts and theories of value management and value engineering as introduced and practiced in Saudi Arabia construction Industry. Worldwide construction industry declined in performance because of globalization factors and the introduction of innovations. Some factors include weak management, introduction of new technology, sour relationships between stakeholders, and stiff competition. The construction boom in Saudi Arabia was triggered by the discovery of oil and the government’s decision to allocate a big sum of the budget to construction of buildings, airports, hospitals and other government structures. The Saudi construction industry is now one of the largest in the world. It is estimated in 2005 that the industry reached $35 billion. But in 2006, figures reached a staggering $50 billion. The Saudi Ministry of Planning reported that in 2000, t he construction industry accounted for 30-40% of the economy, the second biggest offered by a non-oil sector. The Oxford Business Group reported that the amount of $300 billion was poured in to the economy through various construction projects. The industry contributed much to the increase in the Saudi gross domestic product. In 2005, GDP rose to SR767,749 Million (1$= 3.75SR), and from this 6.7% was attributed to construction, an amount reaching SR51,446 million. The growth for construction reached a level of 6% in 2005.

2500 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

2500 - Essay Example The bearing used for this specific case of wind turbine is ball-bearings. The ball-bearings are used for low load and high speed machines. The ball bearings are generally manufactured from steel material. This material is preferred choice due to its high strength, and resistance of corrosion and high fatigue strength. As per standard practice, the outer race of the ball bearing is manufactured from high alloy steel bar, in most of the cases the inner races, wear rings are also manufactured from the same material. The recommended steel alloy for such manufacturing is BMS-931 and 8720H. The manufacturing process begins with the forging of the steel bar, the material is forged into different shapes like cups, cones etc. The forging process is generally hot forging; this process shall release thermal stresses from the material during the process. The forging process can be explained as, "exposure of the steel bar in the induction heater system, the heating process is halted after the temperature reaches the melting point of the material; at this temperature maximum formability for hot forging is attained". After the completion of hot forging, the material is pierced. The material used for the manufacturing is SAE-521000; the material is used in the form of forged rings. The centre-less grinding is applied on the material, which is extremely rough machining process. The material is then treated at high temperature, after which the hardness of the material is checked. The grinding on the material is conducted to secure smooth surface finish. During the process the material undergoes "honing and super finishing followed by washing; later anti-rush agent is applied on the object" (Bruce, 1997). The heat treatment process is extremely critical, and during this process the ample exposure to the heat will release thermal stresses within the object. The process is conducted "to

Where the funding fathers able to create a limited government that Essay

Where the funding fathers able to create a limited government that exist today exlain your answer - Essay Example However, with the passage of time, as the American population augmented and a feeling of nationhood grew amongst the Americans, many of the founding fathers realized the need for a strong government. The issue of limited government was as controversial amongst the founding generation as it is today. The conservatives amongst the founding fathers supported a strong government (Hamilton, Madison and Jay xxi). Those amongst the founding fathers of liberal affiliations supported a limited government that respected the rights of the people and did not infringe on the privacy of the free citizens (Hamilton, Madison & Jay xxii). There was a dominant feeling in the founding fathers that eventually people need to be governed, but also that people do need some inalienable rights and freedoms. The political development in the USA has always been a kind of balance between these two imperative

Combating Terrorism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Combating Terrorism - Essay Example It was necessary to make arrangements for refueling of aircrafts in Kenya (Taillon, 2002). It also had to coordinate with the French government in order to be able to acquire information from one of the released hostages who was a French national. This would not be possible without the agreement of the French in spite of the former hostage also being of Jewish decent (Taillon, 2002). The Israeli government also had to coordinate with the United States military that provided satellite images of the area. During the operation the Israeli government also had to work with the Kenyan government in order to allow Israeli planes to land safely in Nairobi and to have planes that carried reserve fuel to be land at Mombasa (Taillon, 2002). Coordination with the British was also necessary in to ensure that the rescue plane landed at Entebbe just after British cargo planes. After the successful operation it was still necessary for coordination in order for the rescued hostages to land in Nairobi and to be treated their. The Kenyan government provided medical services and food for the released hostages (Taillon, 2002). According to Shoran, the rescue mission proved that terrorism could be countered effectively and it was an endeavor worth cooperating for (BBC NEWS, 1976). The irately operation however had repercussions some of which were serious to those affected. One of the things that happened afterwards was, Iddi Amin, the then president of Uganda having suspected that Kenya colluded with Israel during the planning of the raid sort to hit back (BBC NEWS, 1976). The humiliated president ordered the massacre of hundreds of Kenyans who had been living in Uganda. Another quite obvious repercussion was the loss of lives of some of the Jewish people. First of all, some of the hostages died during the operation. Second, Netanyahu an army officer and other soldiers also lost their lives (Jewish Virtual Library, 2003a). Another repercussion of the operation was the breaking down of diplomatic ties with Uganda who felt that by having the Israeli army, a foreign force land in their country without authorization; it was an undermining of the sovereignty of the nation of Uganda. The Ugandans even expressed their displeasure by taking the matter to the United Nations Security Council (BBC NEWS, 1976). The operation also caused a reaction from Israeli enemies who vowed to attack Israel even with more zeal (BBC NEWS, 1976). The standards for counter terrorism operations do not apply in the same manner for Israel as they do for other nations. This is because of Israelis geographical location which puts it in constant danger of terrorist attack. Israel is surrounded by hostile Arab neighbors who are a threat to the existence of Israel. The Middle East war also makes the standards different as the frequency of attack in Israel is very high (Jewish Virtual Library, 2003b). Another factor that contributes to the difference is the history of the Jewish people who have experienced conflict throughout with such events as the holocaust. As the Jewish people have many enemies who are also very close to them, they have to be proactive in counter terrorism and have to act on many threats. The Israeli nation can easily be reached by rockets

Application of Key Systems Theory Concepts Essay Example for Free

Application of Key Systems Theory Concepts Essay Bright Light Limited (BLL) has grown wide and far. It envelopes several departments which function according to the information provided to it. It collectively contributes to the efficient functioning of the enterprise. All its departments require several Information system’s to manage its data and evaluate the productivity of the resources. It has occupied a good share in the market because of its quality and excellent service. Presently, the use of IS is not done in full force. It once decided to implement a CAD/CAM system but no avail. The operations of all the departments cannot be tracked and any irregularities of the organization are not captured. This may lead to poor quality of goods and service. The IS would bring the elements of the organization to the same page so that every department can interact with each other to share information anytime and be in synchronization with the developments taking place. All the loopholes and exceptional cases can be captured to optimize the use of resources. Proper engineering principals have been discussed so that every requirement is enveloped into the IS and can be managed to optimize the present working of the organization. The implementation of IS would give a defined structure to the organization and stay in healthy communication with all the departments. The IS would be an organization itself and would manage all the resources effectively. The involvement of IS would enable them to compete with international threats in the market. B) Task 1 BLL has several suppliers such as producers of electronic components, glass, transistors and many others. The company purchases raw materials from these suppliers are integrate them to make a deliverable product. The final product is sold to a number of local, national and international wholesalers and retailers. The involvements of the departments are quite evident in the process of transition from materials procurement to final delivery. 1. Application of Key Systems Theory Concepts: The entire process of input-process-output is quite evident in the process of rendering customers with products and services. The inputs are in the form of customer request. Primarily the development of products would be done based on the previous goods sold and the feedback received. The type of products namely light bulbs and fluorescents are manufactured by the organization and sold to the retailers and wholesalers nationwide and internationally. Figure 1 : System diagram of the Organization process. a. Inputs: The nature of inputs is in the form of customers’ orders and feedbacks. They are also in the form of raw materials procured from the suppliers which ultimately are processed to form finished goods. Once the customer places the orders, according to the dimension of the order, it is taken up for compliance. The right amount of raw materials is ordered from the suppliers and it passes through the design process. The final product after the quality check is delivered to the customer in time. The process of selling might be over at this stage but marketing group takes over to get the feedback and improve their service conditions and product quality for greater satisfaction. So at this stage the customers’ order and feedback both act as inputs to the organization. The raw materials purchased from the suppliers also act as inputs for the finished products. b. Process: There are a number of processes which are present in the organization that directly and indirectly influence the working of the organization and in shaping various forms of output. The most crucial process is the ordering of raw materials after an order is placed. This process is quite essential for the further processing of the order, its quality factors, timely delivery and customer satisfaction. The next process would be the combination of the raw materials so that the correct blend enables to produce quality goods for gaining customer satisfaction. Another process would be to collect the feedback from the customer which happens to be a lengthy process. It would require patience on the part of the organization to collect after sales data for further processing to create a better process chain and innovate the look and feel of products to cater better audience. The HRM process would enable findings of the worker output, taking care of the human resources in the organization and training them for newer business objectives and process innovation. There are several small processes such as logistics and despatch which would handle the management of the products namely bulbs and fluorescents. It would function for warehousing, inventory management and delivery of the products to the customer. c. Output: There are quite a number of forms of output which helps the organization to take care of customer needs and render greater satisfaction of service. One is the finished goods which serve the customers either entirely or through the means of wholesalers and retailers. The feedback of the customers forms a greater source of output for after sales service and to make their product better. Another form of output is the worker productivity and resource utilization so that the turnover can be assessed after eliminating the wastage of resources. d. Feedback The source of feedback is from various sources. One is from the employees who work in the organization. They are best to identify the positive and negative factors to be capitalize so as to encompass the demerits and the irregularities. They stand best for providing the feedback as they work at the ground level and are able to understand the micro level problems which must be taken care at the earliest. The other form of feedback is from the customer for after sales feedback and for product innovation. e. Boundary It defines the scope of the organization to the level of service. The scope is in the production of bulbs and fluorescents only. The company has not diversified into other forms of business and concentrates into only few products. To have a greater share of the market into related products it must diversify the product base so as to cover against losses. f. Interaction with the environment The environment constitutes of the suppliers and the customers. The suppliers are the ones who supply for raw materials and must be taken care by the organization in allowing them special privileges and offers. They must be acknowledged for their service and could in some circumstances be allowed to share profits of the organization. They must be given a representation in the management of the company. 2. Analysis of Information flow throughout the departments: The major decision making is done and propagated by the managing director to the marketing, human resources and electrical engineering and design departments. Once they have a clear and planned mind set of the aims they are able to work on the targets required to be met. The communication is downward in case for higher management and lateral for the middle and lower management.

Primate Society and Human Society Essay Example for Free

Primate Society and Human Society Essay The present paper is intended to discuss the similarities between the social behaviors of baboons and humans according to the book â€Å"Almost Human† by Shirley Strum. The first manifestation of social behavior Shirley Strum noticed is threat signals the animals convey when a newcomer appears (Strum, 1987, p. 24). Furthermore, as the newcomer approaches, juveniles and adult females circle around him and carefully examine him. The animals introduce themselves in an interesting way: â€Å"A female â€Å"presents† to a male when she approaches and turns her bottom toward his face; then the male will generally sniff her to see if she is sexually receptive. Two males can also present to each other with no sexual intention at all, and the same greeting is frequently exchanged by females, juveniles and even babies when they can manage it. † (Strum, 1987, p. 25). In several days upon the arrival of the newcomer, he remains an outcast, yet the other tribe members keep their eyes on each movement he makes. When a female comes closely to a male, the latter narrows his eyes, shakes head and smacks his lips – this physical manifestation is quite common among baboons. However, if the male is not considered â€Å"popular† in the group of animals, the female might simply flee without introducing herself, then male continues grimacing as described above and accompanies the grim with soft grunting. The couple play this game for quite a long time – the female approaches and then quickly distracts and escapes, whereas the male continues to exhibit his â€Å"infatuation†. Such social â€Å"games† are played between men and women in our society. For instance, when a woman presents herself to a man, she smiles and shakes hands with him. They also verbally exchange their introductory information – name, occupation, hobbies. At the same time, the man, who considers marriage or searches for a sex partner, processes the information about the woman’s appearance and . If he is attracted to the woman, he begins to make slight hints and social gestures – e. g. , he might distinguish her amongst his friends and become more sincere, invite her to a theatre, cinema or dinner, give her gifts and flowers and so forth. However, if the woman notices the man has low social position or does not meet her social requirements, she is likely to lose interest in his â€Å"candidacy†. However, if the man persists and manages to present his interest as genuine and stable, the intimate relationship might begin. Human and baboon behaviors in cross-gender relationships are quite similar. Primarily, baboons present themselves to one another in order to learn more about a stranger; similarly, humans introduce themselves both verbally and through smiling, shaking hands. This introductory stage allows gathering the basic information and determining the primary sources of threat in the â€Å"interlocutor† (e. g. , contagious disease, among humans – armor etc). Among humans, smile acts as a sign of the person’s peaceful intentions, as humans are less proficient in the use and understanding of body language. Further, as a female baboon approaches the male and gives him an opportunity to inhale her odor, she shows to him that she is sexually mature and can have intimate contact. Moreover, such close introduction allows the male to examine her appearance, or â€Å"beauty† – this factor is extremely important, given that â€Å"beauty† in primate groups is associated with physical health and fitness. The healthier the female is the stronger progeny she can bear and the fewer problems with bearing and birth she will experience. Similarly, human males assess the female during the first seconds of encounter, in particular, they pay attention to such criteria as age, physical beauty and erudition, as they half-consciously select (not always intentionally) a potential sexual partner or spouse and subconsciously believe younger (to reasonable degree, but generally younger in comparison to the male), smarter and more gorgeous women are fitter and better prepared for life in this society. Female baboons show their bottoms when they seek to lure a male, perhaps because appropriate building of this body part serves as a proof of the female’s sexual maturity and health. Human females, who wish to look â€Å"attractive†, also demonstrate their bodies, not necessarily naked, but always underlined by stylish clothes, make-up and accessories. After evaluating the female and determining whether she fits his criteria of physical development and appearance, the male baboon himself seeks to attract the female by displaying his interest and showing his own fitness and strength. Similarly to the primate society, among humans, there is also a behavioral pattern which consists in male’s responsibility for making the first step towards a stable relationship (e. g. inviting the woman he is infatuated with to a dinner, entertaining her, paying a lot of attention to her personality). If the female baboon realizes that male is outcast, she will continue ignoring him for some time, as the fittest males, whose inheritance will be most favorable to the future progeny in terms of survival, are normally popular in the tribe and have a high degree of authority. Furthermore, popular member of the tribe is more capable of providing for his female when she is consumed by â€Å"childcare†. Like female baboons, women become quite suspicious when meeting social outcasts or men of lower social status, who are potentially less likely to meet the needs of the family after the baby appears. However, in both societies, if the male manages to prove his dependability and keeps attending to the female for a long time, the latter might change her mind and find him eligible. As one can assume, human social behavior in cross-gender relationships is driven largely by instincts exhibited by primates. The factors humans and primates consider when selecting a sexual partner are in many cases the same, as males of both groups first and foremost evaluate physical fitness, whereas females in both baboon and human societies make a more complex analysis and also look at the male’s social position envisioning the necessity of taking care of defenseless and dependent progeny (or children). Both humans and animals are greatly concerned about the physical characteristics of the next generation, which partially backs Darwin’s theory of the survival of the fittest and the inborn striving for the survival of the species.

Beliefs of the Republication Party, USA

Beliefs of the Republication Party, USA Caleb Dawson The Republican Platform Ever since a small group of anti-slavery activists met in 1854, the Republican Party has been a strong influence in American government and politics. In 1861, Abraham Lincoln firmly set the Republican Party as one of the two major political parties, when he became their first President and then won the Civil War. Then in the 1980s, Ronald Reagan, widely famed for his conservatism, highlighted the Republican Party’s key principles of freedom, equal opportunity, and God-given rights. Today, Republicans seek to reinstall America’s legacy of freedom and conservatism in the hearts of all Americans with their domestic, economic, and foreign policies. Republicans aim to protect individual freedoms, restore power and influence to communities, and encourage self-sustainability both locally and nationally through their domestic policy. First, the Republican Party holds a very strong view on the heavily debated topic of education. When the public education system first started, Republicans fought against the radical idea. They wanted individual communities to be able to instill their own beliefs into their people. As a result, current Republicans support private schools and home-schooling, which both return the power of teaching closer to the family level (â€Å"Republican Party (United States),† 2014). Recently, the Supreme Court ruled that prayer is illegal in the school. Feeling that this infringes our religious rights, Republicans strongly promote returning prayer to the school (â€Å"Republican Party on Education,† 2013). Another current issue is that of higher education. With the cost of college quickly rising, stu dent debt is soaring to new heights. In fact, the national student debt has now exceeded the national credit card debt (â€Å"Student Debt,† 2014). To help solve this problem, Republicans seek to stop all federal loans for college and help promote private loans, making long term debt less likely. Another problem is that, more than half of all recent graduates find themselves either working in areas outside their field of study or unemployed. As a result, Republicans say that more students should be encouraged to attend community colleges and technical institutions to get more practical training (â€Å"Republican Party on Education,† 2013). Also hitting the headlines, the energy crisis brings the Republican’s domestic views to light. Specifically about production methods, Republicans support â€Å"increased Federal investment into the development of clean alternative fuels, increased nuclear power, as well as fuels such as ethanol, as a way of helping the U.S. achieve energy independence, as opposed to supporting less use of carbon dioxide-producing methods of generating energy† (â€Å"Republican Party (United States),† 2014). With coal accounting for 37% of energy produced in the United States, they support improving coal plants and continuing to make them more environmentally-friendly. Also, nuclear energy should be promoted as a great energy source for America. Renewable, green energy sources should be thoroughly researched and promoted, but not as the primary source of energy. When it comes to resources, the Republican Party’s primary goal is for America to achieve self-sustainability. By legalizing and promoting the drilling for oil in many places, such as Alaska, Republicans hope to create many jobs and expand America’s energy resources. However, because of burdensome government regulations, the oil and natural gas industries have been greatly stifled. But by lightening these regulations, Republicans hope to get the American economy moving once again (â€Å"Energy – The All-American Plan,† 2014). A rapidly growing problem, the executive bureaucracy, is the subject of much discussion among Republicans. Although most Republicans believe that the bureaucracy as a whole is violating many American rights, many target regulatory agencies as the main problem. Because regulation has become a punitive threat instead of a beneficial guide, Republicans want new major regulations to have to pass congressional approval before they are applied. Another way through which the Republican Party seeks to reduce the power of the bureaucracy is by removing many of the regulations on businesses. Saying that current regulations are essentially a stealth tax on Americans, Republicans want to remove the regulations that are counter effective and only implement ones that are cost-effective (â€Å"2012 Republican Platform,† 2013). After removing many powers from the federal bureaucracy, Republicans hope to restore those powers back to the state and local levels. For they believe that the level c losest to the area dealt with should be the one to receive the governing authority on it (â€Å"Jefferson Perspective: Bureaucracies,† 1996). The Republican stance on gun control rights is very conservative and protective. Republicans think that the right to own a gun is part of the fundamental right of self-defense; therefore, it should not be infringed upon by the government. Also, Republicans believe ammunition should also be able to be obtained and stored freely without registration. Furthermore, they want to stop lawsuits targeted at gun manufacturers as an attempt to deprive Americans of the rights given to them by the 2nd Amendment. They say that when a tragic event occurs involving a gun, the gun is not the thing that should be regulated. The criminal should be punished, not the rest of the nation. Just like if a person killed someone with a spoon, spoons should not be banned across the nation (â€Å"Republican Party on Gun Control,† 2013R). Showing its Christian heritage, the Republican Party has widely made known its pro-life stance. Their main goal is to make abortion banned except for in cases of incest or rape. Republicans support the human life amendment, which would ban abortion. They support adoption and abstinence instead of adoption clinic referrals (â€Å"Republican Party on the Issues,† 2013). Most Republicans believe that abortion is simply a moral issue. While believing in the Christian principle that every human has a right to life, Republicans claim that abortion is simply murder. Furthermore, they state that the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution never state that an unborn baby does not have the Creator-endowed right to life (â€Å"The Republican Party is the Pro-Life Party,† 2001). Seeking to restore both freedoms and productivity to America, the Republican Party holds strongly to their economic policy. One of the cornerstones of the American success is its free-market economy, so Republicans hold strong opinions on it, encouraging economic prosperity through free markets and individual achievement (â€Å"Republican Party (United States),† 2014). â€Å"Republicans believe in the importance of sensible business regulations that promote confidence in our economy among consumers, entrepreneurs and businesses alike. However, they oppose interventionist policies that put the federal government in control of industry and allow it to pick winners and losers in the marketplace† (â€Å"2012 Republican Platform,† 2013). When it comes to income tax, Republicans claim it is harmful, for they say it punishes people that save and has grave implications for seniors living on fixed incomes (â€Å"Republican Party on Budget and Economy,†2013). They o ppose a graduated income tax, because it targets those that create jobs and wealth, stifling our free market economy. Supporting the worker, the GOP believes that workers should have the right to decide whether to join a union or not (â€Å"Republican Party (United States),† 2014). While welfare can be an honorable thing, Republicans do not want it to be abused. While most Republicans agree that a welfare system should be implemented to assist the poor, they prefer the government leave welfare in the hands of the individual and local level. As a result, religious organizations and other charities would become the target for welfare spending. Unfortunately, however, the welfare system is often abused by individuals. So Republicans seek to crack down on these incidents by tightening restrictions on welfare application and benefits (â€Å"Republican Party (United States),† 2014). Because of poor management many people now use welfare as a means of living. Republicans want welfare only to help people, not to support them (â€Å"Republican Party on Budget and Economy,† 2013). Overall, Republicans are opposed to government-run healthcare. Although many Republican politicians are in favor of Medicare and Medicaid, all are against a government health care program (â€Å"Republican Party (United States),† 2014). â€Å"We oppose government-run health care, which won’t protect the physician-patient relationship, won’t promote competition, and won’t promote health care quality and choice† (â€Å"2012 Republican Platform,† 2013). Republicans also state that government healthcare is used as a method to gain governmental power. For example, many Republicans believe that Obamacare was never really about health, but about government power. Through it, Obama would have taken control of over one-sixth of the economy. Also, if it is fully implemented, Republicans predict that it would itself collapse, demonstrating the inefficiency and uselessness of government healthcare (â€Å"Republican Party on Health Care,† 2013). When it comes to their foreign policy, the Republican Party holds a very proactive stance. In general, most Republicans believe that peace is best acquired though having a strong military. For example, the current Obama Administration wants to cut the members of the military by about 100,000, but Republicans seek to raise the number by that much! (â€Å"Republicans seek to add more in defense spending,† 2014). Further, Republicans acknowledge that America is in a national security crisis. Many people do not realize that China and North Korea are building up long-distance weapons to fire on us; therefore, Republicans say a strong military is key to our safety. They do not however believe America should go policing everybody; instead America should regulate the world just enough to keep us safe (â€Å"John Bolton at CPAC,† 2014). The Republicans seek to completely curb terrorism. Republicans are almost always in agreement with sending American troops abroad to fight terrorist groups. However, when it comes to our homeland, Republicans are split. Some say the government should observe private phone calls and emails in an effort to tighten national security. Others say that this is unconstitutional and that it violates Americans’ right to privacy (â€Å"Differing Views on Terrorism,† 2006). Another point brought up by Republicans is that terrorists will be fighting us no matter where the location is, so it is best to keep to keep a presence in other parts of the world in order to keep the fighting overseas. And moreover, since terrorists do not negotiate and keep fighting to the end, we must annihilate them for any hope of peace (â€Å"Republican Party on War and Peace,† 2013). Republicans believe that America should have the strongest and most modernized nuclear stockpile in the world in an effort to deter any attacks. The GOP thinks that the only way to stop a nuclear war is if all nations reduce or eliminate their nuclear stockpiles. They also know that if America takes the front of this movement, America must keep enough nuclear weapons to deter any other nation. They are worried because the Obama Administration has abandoned America’s nuclear force. This puts America in a vulnerable spot compared to the rest of the world. Also, by abandoning our missile bases in Poland and the Czech Republic, the current administration is undermining America’s missile defense. With nations developing nuclear missiles that can reach the U.S., Republicans state that it is foolish to undermine our own missile shield (â€Å"What Does Your†¦,† 2012). Through their conservative platform, Republicans seek restore liberty and prosperity to America. Founded on Christian morals and principles, the GOP seeks to use its conservative stance to draw American’s back from the invading concept of social liberalism. As the economy of America is rapidly degrading, the Republican Party is trying to reform the government to bring back America’s prosperity. And by having a strong military presence in the world, Republicans hope to make the world a safer place for our nation. As expressed by the GOP themselves, â€Å"The Party’s core principles of freedom and equal opportunity are as relevant today as at our founding, and they are the roadmap for American renewal in a new and interconnected world† (â€Å"Our History,† 2013). Bibliography 2012 Republican National Convention. â€Å"2012 Republican Platform.† 2013. http://www.gop.com/2012-republican-platform_home/ (accessed Feb. 25, 2014). Breitbart. â€Å"John Bolton at CPAC: Replace Obamas Drift, Decline, and Defeatism with Reaganite Peace Through Strength.† 6 March 2014. http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Government/2014/03/06/John-Bolton-at-CPAC-Replace-Obama-s-Drift-Decline-and-Defeatism-with-Reaganite-Peace-Through-Strength (accessed Mar. 28,2014). Dan Balz and Claudia Deane. â€Å"Differing Views on Terrorism.† 2006. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/10/AR2006011001192.html (accessed Mar. 26, 2014). Eyler Robert Coates, Sr. â€Å"Jefferson Perspective: Bureaucracies.† 1996. http://eyler.freeservers.com/JeffPers/jefpco34.htm (accessed Mar. 28, 2014). GOP.gov. â€Å"Energy – The All-American Plan.† http://www.gop.gov/energy/ (accessed Mar. 21, 2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on Budget and Economy.† 11 October 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/Celeb/Republican_Party_Budget_+_Economy.htm (accessed Mar. 23, 2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on Education.† 11 October 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/Celeb/Republican_Party_Education.htm (accessed Mar. 19, 2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on Government Reform.† 11 October 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/celeb/Republican_Party_Government_Reform.htm (accessed Mar. 23, 2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on Gun Control.† 11 October 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/Celeb/Republican_Party_Gun_Control.htm (accessed Mar. 24,2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on Health Care.† 11 October 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/celeb/Republican_Party_Health_Care.htm (accessed Mar. 23,2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on the Issues.† 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/Republican_Party.htm (accessed Mar. 19, 2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on War and Peace.† 11 October 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/celeb/Republican_Party_War_+_Peace.htm (accessed Mar. 26, 2014). On The Issues. â€Å"Republican Party on Welfare and Poverty.† 11 October 2013. http://www.ontheissues.org/celeb/Republican_Party_Welfare_+_Poverty.htm (accessed Mar. 23, 2014). Republican National Convention. â€Å"Our History.† 2013. http://www.gop.com/our-party/our-history/ (accessed Apr. 11, 2014). RNC for Life. â€Å"The Republican Party is the Pro-Life Party.† 2001. http://www.rnclife.org/brochure/rprolife.html (accessed Mar. 21, 2014). Waging Peace Today. â€Å"What Does Your Political Party Say About Nuclear Weapons.† 12 September 2012. http://wagingpeacetoday.blogspot.com/2012/09/what-does-your-political-party-say.html (accessed Mar. 26, 2014). Walter Pincus. â€Å"Republicans seek to add more in defense spending.† 2014. http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/republicans-seek-to-add-more-in-defense-spending/2012/05/07/gIQAKiq48T_story.html (accessed Mar. 28, 2014). Wikipedia. â€Å"Republican Party (United States).† 24 February 2014. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republican_Party_(United_States) (accessed Feb. 25, 2014). Wikipedia. â€Å"Student Debt.† 2014. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Student_debt (accessed Apr. 3, 2014).

Existentialism :: Philosophy Sartre Existentialist Essays

Existentialism 'Existence precedes essence'. These are the few words that many people live by. These words describe a philosophy called Existentialism. The philosophical term, Existentialism, came from Jean Paul Sartre, a French philosopher. Jean Paul Sartre wrote 'No Exit', where he portrayed his philosophy negatively. On the other hand, Albert Camus, who wrote The Stranger, portrayed Existentialism positively through his characters. Each author uses the characteristics of Existentialism positively or negatively to define their own story as well as their characters as true Existentialists or not   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Existentialism has been described as a philosophical movement especially of the 20th century that stresses the individual position as self determining agent responsible for his or her own choices. Basically a true Existentialist will create their own beliefs, take responsibility for his of her own actions, and is very honest. If they were to do something wrong, they would take responsibility for their actions and not make excuses or put the blame on someone else. Furthermore, a true existentialist believes there is no God and thus man becomes alone with only ourselves as a guide to making the decisions that define our existence. They also believe that Life has no meaning and that everything happens by chance.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jean-Paul Sartre examines the basic themes of existentialism through his three characters Garcin, Inez, and Estelle. Garcin seems to appear an existentialist, but upon a closer look, he violates the rules time and again. Next, Inez seems to fully understand ideas deemed existential. Estelle is the third person, and does not seem to understand these ideas well, nor does she accept them when they are first presented to her. One similarity amongst the three is that they all at some point seem to accept that they are in "hell" for a reason.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Garcin is "hell" because he beat his wife and cheated on her. However, he doesn?t wish he had acted differently. He shows and proves this when he says: ?I tell you I regret nothing (p. 24).? By saying this, Garcin is taking responsibility for his own actions; hence he is following the laws of Existentialism. However, he sometimes violates these laws. For example, he is so preoccupied with the idea that he is a coward that he makes the women tell him that he wasn?t a coward and makes her tell him that he was right in doing so. He is so dependent upon this that he wouldn?

Women and Sport in Girlfight, Billy Elliott and Dare to Compete :: Film Movies

Women and Sport in Girlfight, Billy Elliott and Dare to Compete When a woman or man joins a non-traditional sport for their gender or sex, it can have drastic social and cultural costs. These impact not just the individual but also the entire community. When a person challenges the gender roles of society, then they change the perceptions of what men or women are capable of doing, they further androgynize cultural norms, and they open up sports for others. First of all, it is important to note that the first few challengers to a gender role are seen as novelties. In the film 'Dare to Compete', many early woman athletes were co-opted into male teams to attract more fans. Baseball managers would often employ stunts to raise their ticket sales, with one black team – the Clowns –putting on a vaudeville show during the game. The Clowns did have a female player, but she was not publicized to grab more attention at first. Later, advertisements would announce her presence as astounding that a woman could play as well as a man. She was a novelty within a novel team. In the all-female league during World War 2, the managers would have the girls wear short skirts and put on makeup to look like "ladies". Men would come hoping for a striptease in the middle of the game, because women were placed in the same category of sports as the black leagues. That is, they were only to entertain and not actually compete. In 'Girlfight', the main character is at first skeptically viewed by her coach and then she is viewed as a humorous oddity until she proves her determination. Last year, Muhamid Ali and George Foreman's daughters decided to fight each other in a rematch of the famed Rumble in the Jungle. This received major network coverage and was a pay-per-view event on HBO, but the girls were trivialized and many late night commentators ridiculed the idea of women boxing more than one round. Jay Leno suggested that in between rounds, the ladies would stop to touch up their makeup or become enraged if their hair was mussed during the match. The event was well watched because of this curiosity, and it hopefully proved that the daughters of Ali and Forman were just as much an athlete as they were. Women or men who enter a non-traditional sport for their gender will always be viewed with skepticism.

School Psychologist :: essays research papers

The purpose of this informative interview was to develop a better understating of certain aspects of the School Psychologist that are of interest to me. My interviewee for the Psy 600 interview assignment was Elsie, a school psychologist intern for the Board of Education. I have conducted this interview over the phone. In preparation for the interview, I picked the questions from professor’s guidelines, that I felt important for helping to persuade myself to go into school psychologist field.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Before becoming a school psychologist, Elsie has been involved in general education for 7 years and in special education for 6 years. While working with special education population, she has developed a strong interest in learning to identify the main cause of behavioral and emotional problems in children. Therefore, she learned that the School Psychologist professional training would enable her to explore her career in area of special education.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Elsie’s favorite part of the job is the evaluation process that involves the: assessments and other psychological testing. The most important part of the assessment is identifying the problems associated with learning and behavior. Elsie said that the assessments are something like a â€Å"detective work,† but of course nature of work, is different. Elsie’s least favorable part of the job is the enormous amount of administrative paperwork to be completed and submitted to the principal and other administrative staff.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Elise also mentioned the importance of the School Based Support Team within the school system. The SBST consists of: education evaluator, social worker, and a school psychologist. However, when the education evaluators were discontinued from the school system, the SBST became a IEP team. The IEP team consists of. Social Worker and School Psychologist. The advantage of being part of the team is to make the evaluation process easier. When asked about the preferable counseling interventions, Elsie said that there was no one size fits all interventions and it must be based on individual needs of every student. One of the crucial elements of evaluation process, from Elise’s experience, is a class observation.

Nisa Critique

While there have been many rich descriptions of the life of the !Kung of south central Africa, the account given by Marjorie Shostak in her analysis of the life of a woman of this clan appears to be a fascinating account at best but not entirely scholarly since it flouts major ethnographic guidelines.Introduction:The !Kung people are a tribe of hunter-gatherers who live as bushmen in the   southwestern part of Africa,   in isolated areas of Botswana (where they make up only 3 percent of the population), Angola, and Namibia, deep in the Kalahari desert. After gaining fluency in the language of the! Kung, Shostak returned to Botswana in 1975 for six months to complete the life histories of several women in the tribe.Marjorie Shostak manages to takes us into the oldest culture on earth by living with a hunter/gatherer tribe in southern Africa and manages to give us the details of there way of life through an interview with them, of course, before their way of life was further damage d by careless government administration policies. She reflexively collects interviews and anecdotes that enable her to explain their morals, architecture, tribal politics, spirituality, games, marriage rituals and subsistence lifestyle, giving us one of the best looks at how human society began all those thousands of years ago. Also read: My Problem With Her Anger SummaryOne of its major flaws especially for those with a strong understanding of anthropology is the fact that she concentrates her analysis from the report of one dominant character named NISA [the name is fictitious]. This results in a narrative of an idiosyncratic life, one that, as the !Kung woman Nisa once told Shostak, †I will break open the story and tell you what is there. Then, like the others that have fallen out into the sand, I will finish with it, and the wind will take it away†; seems to imply that each woman’s life is unique and may not reflect the truth about women’s lives in the general community of the !Kung clan, even though it truly attempts to mirror the conventions and culture of the group as well.However, from the book we are able to determine Nisa’s character as a woman who is forthcoming in personality, and unabashed and expressive in her native tongue, although she also comes across as de manding and manipulative in behavior. This presented to Shostak great problems in gaining an objective analysis, a fact that generated early ambivalent feelings towards Nisa which as she reports, did not endear Nisa to her any bit. Although Shostak tried to interview more than a dozen other women of all ages; inviting recall, asking pertinent questions and seeking bio-graphical highlights she seems to finally have settled her choice on Nisa as informant because of her   particularly forceful, colorful language, and generally truthful replies.Secondly, although   the justification of Nisa as informant is reliable, it only serves to foster the concept of authenticity in ethnographic representation. The importance of authenticity in ethnographic representation is still in doubt as portrayed in James Clifford’s   review of Edward Said's Orientalism, Clifford asks, â€Å"Should criticism work to counter sets of culturally produced images like Orientalism with more â€Å"au thentic† or more â€Å"human† representations? Or, if criticism must struggle against the procedures of representation itself, how is it to begin?’The general consensus seems to be that authenticity is itself a representation which can be misused. For example, the purpose of the poet or novelist is creative self-expression. For the creative writer, representation is the vehicle for expression; the creative writer consciously chooses representations as representations. The writer of nonfiction, however, typically focuses on the substance of what she wishes to communicate, and often fails to realize that she uses representations when communicating her ideas hence giving rise to rhetoric. Rhetoric is the characteristic manner by which a text's language and organization convinces its readers of the truth, but is itself not truth.Thirdly is the issue of dialogue versus monologue in ethnographic presentation. It is very apparent that Shostak’s   focus moves aw ay from the central position of the ethnographer (implicit in ethnographic realism and explicit in Dumont’s example of the self-reflexive approach in his book The Headman and I: Ambiguity and Ambivalencein the Fieldworking Experience), and brings the importance of native informants to the foreground. â€Å"The other† is given the opportunity, albeit limited, to represent herself in Shostak's text. Shostak's text is also significant because it attempts to incorporate dialogue as a structural feature.Shostak demonstrates the potential usefulness of multiple voices although her ultimate control over the text makes it a monologue. The monological aspect is repeated within the text itself: there is no true discourse between Shostak's and Nisa's portions of the text, only alternating monologues.   However, according to Stephen A. Tyler this presents a problem in ethnographic presentation, one that is solved in a different approach which he suggest when he says, â€Å"A po st-modern ethnography is a cooperatively evolved text consisting of fragments of discourse intended to evoke in the minds of both reader and writer an emergent fantasy of a possible world of commonsense reality, and thus to provoke an aesthetic integration that will have a therapeutic effect.†Tyler's emphasizes the dialogical nature of ethnography [alternating monologues as is the case in Shostak’s work], were the discourse is between reader and writer rather than between the writer and the culture he studies. Tyler maintains that the experience which matters is not the fieldwork but the writing of the ethnography; the ethnographer does not attempt to represent another culture to the reader, but rather to evoke in the reader a recollection of his own culture. Ethnography is a way to make the familiar unfamiliar and then familiar again.Lastly is the authors choice of topics that evolve around the issue f sex and violence maybe justifiable if viewed from the perspective t hat narrative is highly charged with sex because sex is important in !Kung life. From Shostak’s   very provocative findings, such as a much more sexually egalitarian sensibility than our own, we see that in the !Kung culture, marriages are largely monogamous, with some sanction for a second wife; lovers are accepted for both husbands and wives, but discretion is made more important expressly because discovery can lead to mayhem and even murder. However, Shostak seems to get this information largely from Nisa’s own personal account.Personal accounts are   rarely written without particular motivation. Every account has some agenda. Scholars suggest that we need to always consider why the subject feels it is important to share his or her life either privately or with an anonymous public. This is because the narrator’s motivation will account for what parts of a life are discussed and what details are filtered out. What motivated the author of the personal accou nt?Whether written or oral, a personal account is a subjective, selective account of a life recorded for a specific purpose, ranging from personal catharsis to revisionist history. There are many motivations for the creation of personal accounts, including a focus on the self, on others, or on posterity. In this particular account, were Shostak seems to have solicited the story, rather than finding the account, the scholar’s reason for seeking the personal account will probably color the nature of the questions asked.In this case, the personal account will likely reflect the scholar’s interests more than those of the subject. Hence, it can be postulated that Shostak’s interests in giving Nisa’s account was to highlight the issue of women and not entirely for ethnographic purposes. This can be evidenced by the fact that in her time all the way to date, women’s stories in the West have been increasingly considered valid testimonies, along with accoun ts by people of color and those outside the highest strata of socio-political influence. Therefore, although it is impossible to view history from a wholly objective position, it is still helpful to be aware of such biases.In conclusion, I believe that what Shostak should have done was to strive to consider other sources that could offer insight about the !Kung people, such as official documents (marriage, divorce, and birth records, public notices), archived newspapers (human interest stories, political coverage), and glossy magazines (regional and national views reflecting social trends of the time, setting a context). Although her learning of the language is a great achievement enabling her to establish effective communication with the subject, it serves to tell us only a fragment of the whole picture.This fact takes on a deeper gravity when we consider that the question of truth may have many answers. Nisa’s portrayal of her life is indeed accurate in her own mind. Yet we know that, after all, memory is selective: people’s responses to experiences vary and people’s memories of experiences change with time and influence. Events that happen in a person’s life between lived experiences and recording those events can shape their telling, which only confirms that truth may have many answers.Reference:THE PROBLEM OF ETHNOGRAPHIC REPRESENTATION http://home.pacbell.net/nicnic/ethnographic.html#14Shostak, Marjorie, Nisa: The Life and Words of a!Kung Woman. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press (1981). Nisa Critique Introduction:The Kung people are a tribe of hunter-gatherers who live as bushmen in the   southwestern part of Africa,   in isolated areas of Botswana (where they make up only 3 percent of the population), Angola, and Namibia, deep in the Kalahari desert. After gaining fluency in the language of the! Kung, Shostak returned to Botswana in 1975 for six months to complete the life histories of several women in the tribe.Marjorie Shostak manages to takes us into the oldest culture on earth by living with a hunter/gatherer tribe in southern Africa and manages to give us the details of there way of life through an interview with them, of course, before their way of life was further damaged by careless government administration policies. She reflexively collects interviews and anecdotes that enable her to explain their morals, architecture, tribal politics, spirituality, games, marriage rituals and subsistence lifestyle, giving us one of the best looks at how human society began all tho se thousands of years ago.One of its major flaws especially for those with a strong understanding of anthropology is the fact that she concentrates her analysis from the report of one dominant character named NISA [the name is fictitious]. This results in a narrative of an idiosyncratic life, one that, as the !Kung woman Nisa once told Shostak, †I will break open the story and tell you what is there. Then, like the others that have fallen out into the sand, I will finish with it, and the wind will take it away†; seems to imply that each woman’s life is unique and may not reflect the truth about women’s lives in the general community of the !Kung clan, even though it truly attempts to mirror the conventions and culture of the group as well.However, from the book we are able to determine Nisa’s character as a woman who is forthcoming in personality, and unabashed and expressive in her native tongue, although she also comes across as demanding and manip ulative in behavior. This presented to Shostak great problems in gaining an objective analysis, a fact that generated early ambivalent feelings towards Nisa which as she reports, did not endear Nisa to her any bit. Although Shostak tried to interview more than a dozen other women of all ages; inviting recall, asking pertinent questions and seeking bio-graphical highlights she seems to finally have settled her choice on Nisa as informant because of her   particularly forceful, colorful language, and generally truthful replies.Secondly, although   the justification of Nisa as informant is reliable, it only serves to foster the concept of authenticity in ethnographic representation. The importance of authenticity in ethnographic representation is still in doubt as portrayed in James Clifford’s   review of Edward Said's Orientalism, Clifford asks, â€Å"Should criticism work to counter sets of culturally produced images like Orientalism with more â€Å"authentic† or more â€Å"human† representations?Or, if criticism must struggle against the procedures of representation itself, how is it to begin?’ The general consensus seems to be that authenticity is itself a representation which can be misused. For example, the purpose of the poet or novelist is creative self-expression. For the creative writer, representation is the vehicle for expression; the creative writer consciously chooses representations as representations. The writer of nonfiction, however, typically focuses on the substance of what she wishes to communicate, and often fails to realize that she uses representations when communicating her ideas hence giving rise to rhetoric. Rhetoric is the characteristic manner by which a text's language and organization convinces its readers of the truth, but is itself not truth.Thirdly is the issue of dialogue versus monologue in ethnographic presentation. It is very apparent that Shostak’s   focus moves away from the centr al position of the ethnographer (implicit in ethnographic realism and explicit in Dumont’s example of the self-reflexive approach in his book The Headman and I: Ambiguity and Ambivalencein the Fieldworking Experience), and brings the importance of native informants to the foreground. â€Å"The other† is given the opportunity, albeit limited, to represent herself in Shostak's text. Shostak's text is also significant because it attempts to incorporate dialogue as a structural feature. Shostak demonstrates the potential usefulness of multiple voices although her ultimate control over the text makes it a monologue.The monological aspect is repeated within the text itself: there is no true discourse between Shostak's and Nisa's portions of the text, only alternating monologues.   However, according to Stephen A. Tyler this presents a problem in ethnographic presentation, one that is solved in a different approach which he suggest when he says, â€Å"A post-modern ethnogr aphy is a cooperatively evolved text consisting of fragments of discourse intended to evoke in the minds of both reader and writer an emergent fantasy of a possible world of commonsense reality, and thus to provoke an aesthetic integration that will have a therapeutic effect.† Tyler's emphasizes the dialogical nature of ethnography [alternating monologues as is the case in Shostak’s work], were the discourse is between reader and writer rather than between the writer and the culture he studies. Tyler maintains that the experience which matters is not the fieldwork but the writing of the ethnography; the ethnographer does not attempt to represent another culture to the reader, but rather to evoke in the reader a recollection of his own culture. Ethnography is a way to make the familiar unfamiliar and then familiar again.Lastly is the authors choice of topics that evolve around the issue f sex and violence maybe justifiable if viewed from the perspective that narrative is highly charged with sex because sex is important in !Kung life. From Shostak’s   very provocative findings, such as a much more sexually egalitarian sensibility than our own, we see that in the !Kung culture, marriages are largely monogamous, with some sanction for a second wife; lovers are accepted for both husbands and wives, but discretion is made more important expressly because discovery can lead to mayhem and even murder. However, Shostak seems to get this information largely from Nisa’s own personal account. Personal accounts are   rarely written without particular motivation.Every account has some agenda. Scholars suggest that we need to always consider why the subject feels it is important to share his or her life either privately or with an anonymous public. This is because the narrator’s motivation will account for what parts of a life are discussed and what details are filtered out. What motivated the author of the personal account? Whether writ ten or oral, a personal account is a subjective, selective account of a life recorded for a specific purpose, ranging from personal catharsis to revisionist history. There are many motivations for the creation of personal accounts, including a focus on the self, on others, or on posterity.In this particular account, were Shostak seems to have solicited the story, rather than finding the account, the scholar’s reason for seeking the personal account will probably color the nature of the questions asked. In this case, the personal account will likely reflect the scholar’s interests more than those of the subject. Hence, it can be postulated that Shostak’s interests in giving Nisa’s account was to highlight the issue of women and not entirely for ethnographic purposes. This can be evidenced by the fact that in her time all the way to date, women’s stories in the West have been increasingly considered valid testimonies, along with accounts by people of color and those outside the highest strata of socio-political influence. Therefore, although it is impossible to view history from a wholly objective position, it is still helpful to be aware of such biases.In conclusion, I believe that what Shostak should have done was to strive to consider other sources that could offer insight about the !Kung people, such as official documents (marriage, divorce, and birth records, public notices), archived newspapers (human interest stories, political coverage), and glossy magazines (regional and national views reflecting social trends of the time, setting a context). Although her learning of the language is a great achievement enabling her to establish effective communication with the subject, it serves to tell us only a fragment of the whole picture. This fact takes on a deeper gravity when we consider that the question of truth may have many answers. Nisa’s portrayal of her life is indeed accurate in her own mind. Yet we know that, af ter all, memory is selective: people’s responses to experiences vary and people’s memories of experiences change with time and influence. Events that happen in a person’s life between lived experiences and recording those events can shape their telling, which only confirms that truth may have many answers.Reference:THE PROBLEM OF ETHNOGRAPHIC REPRESENTATION http://home.pacbell.net/nicnic/ethnographic.html#14Shostak, Marjorie, Nisa: The Life and Words of a!Kung Woman. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press (1981).

Blockade Runners

Blockade Runners. A blockade runner is usually a lighter-weight ship used for evading a naval port. Often blockade running is done in order to transport cargo, for example to bring food or arms to blockade a city. Other times blockade runners would carry mail in an attempt to communicate with the outside world. The blockade runners during the American civil war were seagoing steam ships that were used to make it through the union blockade that extended some 3,500 miles along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastlines and the lower Mississippi River.These ships had to go undetected they sually traveled at night. If any of the runners were detected by union ships they would simply try to outmaneuver or outrun the union ships. The typical blockade runners were privately owned vessels often operating with a letter of marque issued by the Confederate States. Inbound ships usually brought things that were badly needed supplies and mail, they often carried things like cotton, tobacco and ot her goods for trade. If a blockade was detected they would either be captured or destroyed.There were an estimated 2500-2900 attempts to run the blockade with at east 80% success. Some of the famous blockade runners were; The Bat, The Britannia, The chameleon, The Condor, The Falcon, The Hansa, The Lizzie, The Stag, and The ptarmigan. The Steamer Denbigh. – We are glad to learn that this steamer, reported to be ashore and a wreck in her late attempt to run out of this port in a fog, is not damaged to the extent supposed. She has been relieved of her cargo and is now afloat, and is expected up to-day. The enemy's fleet discovering her unfortunate position tried to vent their spite upon her.They succeeded in hitting her but once in her wheelhouse, doing her no damage. She was defended by the guns of Fort Morgan, which succeeded in putting three shots in one of the blockaders and driving the rest off. The enemy's ship that was struck was sent off in the direction of Pensacola, s upposed to be disabled. The energy of Gen. Higgins and his command in defending the unfortunate ship is highly commended. Word count: 363 Bibliography: Wikipedia, famous blockade runners, newspaper article Mobile Register February 4, 1864. Denbigh runs around near Fort Morgan.

Unit 1-7 Test

Question 1 0 out of 2 points | | | Most people can think at _______ times the rate at which most people talk. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 3 to 4| | | | | Question 2 0 out of 2 points | | | Defining a computer as â€Å"a programmable electronic device that stores, retrieves, and processes data† represents what type of meaning? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| denotation| | | | | Question 3 2 out of 2 points | | | The answer to all of the following questions can help you avoid self-fulfilling prophecies except:Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Why can't I compete with others who do the predicted behavior? | | | | Question 4 0 out of 2 points | | | Which of the following questions can help you find ways to become more other-oriented? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| all of the above| | | | | Question 5 0 out of 2 points | | | Self-awareness, an understanding of your core identity, isAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| all of the above. | | | | | Question 6 2 out of 2 points | | | Howard Giles' Communication Accommodation TheoryAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| claims that when another group is attractive and powerful, we adapt our communication style to their speech behaviors and norms| | | | |Question 7 2 out of 2 points | | | Immediately after listening to a short talk, most of us cannot accurately report _____ percent of what was said. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 50| | | | | Question 8 2 out of 2 points | | | Researchers suggest that _____________ percent of the meaning we generate when interacting with others may be conveyed through nonverbal behaviors. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 60 to 70| | | | | Question 9 2 out of 2 points | | | Your textbook presents seven key elements of effective communication. The first element on that list isAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Self| | | | Question 10 2 out of 2 points | | | ______________ is the ability to restate what people say in a way that indicates you have understood what they mean. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Paraphrasing| | | | | Question 11 2 out of 2 points | | | On average, we spend approximately ____________ of our communicating time listeningAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 40-70 percent| | | | | Question 12 0 out of 2 points | | | Why are many people confident when asked to sing in a choir, but nervous when asked to sing solo? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| fear of the spotlight| | | | Question 13 0 out of 2 points | | | Which of the following is not a characteristic of paraphrasing? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| the ability to repeat exactly what a person has said| | | | | Question 14 0 out of 2 points | | | If you are willing to stand up for yourself in appropriate ways to fulfill your needs, you are practicingAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| self-assertiveness| | | | | Question 15 0 out of 2 points | | | Immediacy strategies refer toAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| the extent to which you seem approchable or likable. | | | | Question 16 2 out of 2 points | | | Members of most work groups interact with one another at Hall'sAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| social distance| | | | | Question 17 0 out of 2 points | | | Which media was used extensively to report events and opinions during citizen uprisings and protests in Iran in 2009? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Twitter| | | | | Question 18 2 out of 2 points | | | A study by the Business-Higher Education Forum listed _________________ as the most important skill area for career preparation in college.Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| oral communication skills| | | | | Question 19 0 out of 2 points | | | What type of listening enables you to identify and understand a person's feelings or motives? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| empathic listening| | | | | Question 20 0 out of 2 points | | | Good listeners use their extra thought speed toAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| summarize main ideas| | | | | Question 21 2 out of 2 points | | | In Latin, the word credo meansAnswer| | | | | Corr ect Answer:| â€Å"I believe. â€Å"| | | | | Question 22 2 out of 2 points | | If the word â€Å"computer† evokes a negative image of an increasingly complex software nightmare that frustrates and infuriates you, what type of meaning is influencing your response to the word? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| connotation| | | | | Question 23 0 out of 2 points | | | Identify the function of nonverbal cues in relation to verbal messages in the following example: When David asks Elaine whether she was able to buy any more of the on-sale Saran Wraps, she nods as she says â€Å"yes† while holding up three fingers and says â€Å"three. â€Å"Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| repeats the verbal message| | | | | Question 24 out of 2 points | | | Mindfulness requiresAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| all of the above| | | | | Question 25 2 out of 2 points | | | Anthropologist Edward T. Hall identifies four zones of interaction used by most North Americans. Which of the followin g answers is NOT one of Hall's zones? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| business distance| | | | | Question 26 0 out of 2 points | | | Which of the following statements about the nature of nonverbal communication is described in the following sentence: â€Å"Depending on the circumstances and occasion, a laugh can be interpreted as amusement, approval, contempt, scorn, or embarrassment. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Nonverbal communication is highly contextual. | | | | | Question 27 0 out of 2 points | | | What percent of women in the United States feel unhappy about their weight and want to be thinner? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 75-80%| | | | | Question 28 2 out of 2 points | | | The Communication in Action feature in Chapter 6 explains that tattoos and body piercings can affect a person's credibility in all of the follwoing ways exceptAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| tattoos and body piercings have permanent and serious effects on a person's health| | | | | Question 29 ou t of 2 points | | | While preparing for a corporate job interview Richard pays careful attention to selecting appropriate clothing (including a long-sleeved blue shirt to hide his tattoo), reminding himself to smile and establish eye contact with the person who will be interviewing him, and answering questions in a strong, confident voice. What aspect of nonverbal communication has Richard failed to consider? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| none of the above| | | | | Question 30 2 out of 2 points | | | According to Hofstede's dimensions of culture, which country is ranked #1 in terms of masculine values?Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Japan| | | | | Question 31 0 out of 2 points | | | According to the 2000 Census, 75% of the people living in the United States were white. By 2006, _______________ of people living in the United States were white. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 56. 6%| | | | | Question 32 0 out of 2 points | | | According to your textbook, people who believe that t heir culture is better than other cultures or that their culture should be the role model for other cultures would be classified asAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| ethnocentric| | | | Question 33 0 out of 2 points | | | Identify the function of nonverbal cues in relation to verbal messages in the following example: You say the words â€Å"I'm angry† with a loud volume, forceful gestures, and piercing eye contact. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| accents the verbal message| | | | | Question 34 0 out of 2 points | | | The two most common fears among North Americans areAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| fear of snakes and fear of public speaking| | | | | Question 35 2 out of 2 points | | | Which of the following religions is the oldest?Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Hinduism| | | | | Question 36 0 out of 2 points | | | In order to maintain a positive self-concept we often try to make ourselves look good byAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| doing all of the above. | | | | | Questio n 37 0 out of 2 points | | | Research suggests that leakage cues (unintentional nonverbal behaviors) may reveal deceptive communication. Which of the following answers describes a leakage cue? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| higher pitch, vocal tension, and longer pauses| | | | |Question 38 0 out of 2 points | | | In which interactional context does a limited number of people, usually two, interact for the purpose of sharing information, accomplishing a specific goal or maintaining a relationship? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| interpersonal communication| | | | | Question 39 0 out of 2 points | | | The fear or anxiety associated with either real or anticipated communication with another person or persons is referred to asAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| communication apprehension| | | | | Question 40 out of 2 points | | | Marguerite is a conscientious member of her work team. her listening style, however, annoys some of the other members. She tends to be an impulsive decision ma ker who rarely weighs the pros and cons of her decisions. What is Marguerite's listening style? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| time-oriented| | | | | Question 41 2 out of 2 points | | | People who exhibit effective nonverbal communication skills tend to haveAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| all of the above| | | | | Question 42 0 out of 2 points | | If you are thinking about your upcoming vacation plans rather than llistening carefully to your friend's problem, you are preoccupied byAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| internal noise| | | | | Question 43 2 out of 2 points | | | Which of the following is the best example of an abstract word? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| fairness| | | | | Question 44 2 out of 2 points | | | A corporate CEO relates that when he fumbled his way through a speech and started to ramble, he noticed that he was losing listeners and then became even more unnerved.The CEO was reacting toAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| feedback| | | | | Question 45 0 out of 2 points | | | Which of the following statements is an inference? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| Rodney does not care about the group's project. | | | | | Question 46 0 out of 2 points | | | Your textbook defines communication as the process of using verbal and nonverbal messages to generate meaning within and across variouscontexts, cultures, and channels. Which term in this definition refers towhere, when, and under what circumstances you communicate?Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 3. context| | | | | Question 47 2 out of 2 points | | | According to your textbook, ________________ communication refers to the interaction of three or more interdependent people who interact for the purpose of achieving a common goal. Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| group| | | | | Question 48 2 out of 2 points | | | According to your texbook's definition of culture, which of the following groups of people meet this definition? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| All of the above| | | | |Question 49 0 out of 2 points | | | Anthropologist Edward T. Hall studies spatial relationships and how the distance between people communicates information about their relationship. He refers to this tendency asAnswer| | | | | Correct Answer:| proxemics| | | | | Question 50 0 out of 2 points | | | What are the distance parameters most North Americans use when interacting with close personal friends and family members? Answer| | | | | Correct Answer:| 18 inches to 4 feet| | | | | Sunday, October 7, 2012 8:04:08 PM CDT OK