E-commerce Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

E-commerce - Research Paper Example In Consumer-to-Business commerce, consumers publicize products or services and suppliers provide services to them (Magal, 2012). Finally, Consumer-to-Consumer commerce allows an individual to sell services or goods to other individuals over the internet. Levels of the internet economy comprise of internet infrastructure layer, application infrastructure layer, intermediary marker layer, as well as internet commerce layer, (Kamis, 2011). The internet infrastructure layer comprises of companies that offer services for creating an IP based network and a prerequisite for E-commerce. The internet application layer builds upon the internet infrastructure layer and makes technology viable to carry out business proceedings online. Internet intermediary layer increases the efficiency of E-markets through facilitating the interaction of sellers and buyers online (Magal, 2012). Finally, the internet commerce level includes the sales of goods over the internet through websites such as E-bay or Amazon among others. Also, internet economy has created various businesses such as website developers and Server manufactures in order to run businesses online (Kamis, 2011). Unlike the brick and mortar stores that require a wide variety of staff, e-commerce businesses do not need a bid staff (Kamis, 2011). Hence, the cost of running an e-commerce business is minimal. Also, brick and store businesses have to run only in a certain location, unlike e-commerce businesses. E-commerce businesses do not have to locate a location in order to run their business. They just need to have a website and everything follows. Even though, setting up a website requires funds, setting up a brick and mortar store requires more funds than an e-commerce

How Pollution Destroys the Atmosphere and Habitats Essay Example for Free

How Pollution Destroys the Atmosphere and Habitats Essay Introduction â€Å"Nowadays, industries, automobiles, power stations, etc. have become indispensable in our daily life.† ( Science Level K page 242) Have you ever wondered what causes pollution? Forms of Pollution Pollution is the process whereby various harmful substances are added to the environment (land, water, air etc.) by human and natural activities. The main various types of pollution that exist are: Air Pollution Air pollution is the cause of release of chemicals, and particulates into the atmosphere which endanger human life and living matter on the earth by humans, human products and natural disasters. As the current era of modern industrialization progresses more and more waste of the results of their production become toxins which can be freely inhaled and fatal to mammals. Water Pollution Water pollution is the introduction of chemical, biological and physical matter into large bodies of water that corrupt the quality of life that lives in it and consumes it. Like the discharging of waste water from commercial and industrial waste (intentionally or through spills) into surface waters; oil spills, household chemicals, pesticides and fertilizers are the major sources of water pollution. Land Pollution Land pollution is pollution of the Earth’s natural land surface by industrial, commercial, domestic and agricultural activities. It occurs when chemicals are released intentionally, by spill or underground leakage. Some of the main contributions to land pollution are deforestation, construction debris, industrial factories etc. Effects on Environment Human Health Pollution has many different forms that are not only doing damage to our environment but also to our health. Pollutants can enter human body causing diseases. Air pollution can cause breathing problems and eye, throat and skin irritation. When solid waste is not properly treated and disposed of, it can become a breeding for pests and disease can spread. Water pollution can cause waterborne diseases by polluted drinking water, polluted beach water, and, serious diseases by water polluted by chemicals. Water pollution may also result from interactions between water and contaminated soil, as well as from deposition of air contaminants (such as acid rain).Damage to people may be caused by fish foods coming from polluted water and vegetable crops grown or washed with polluted water. Plants Leaves find it difficult to produce food in polluted air. When trees begin to lose their leaves, they may eventually die. When there is too much chemical content in the water absorbed by the roots, it can also affect plant life. Water Pollution that affects plants would include acid rain. Soil Pollution problems affecting plants include the overuse of pesticides which selects for resistant strains of insects and weeds, the loss of topsoil due to overdevelopment and soil erosion, and the uptake of toxic chemicals through the mismanagement of solid waste. Acid rain can kill trees, destroy the leaves of plants, can infiltrate soil by making it unsuitable for purposes of nutrition and habitation. Trees and plants may absorb soil contaminants and pass them up the food chain. Animals Oil spills in the seas and oceans result in birds and animals (e.g. penguins and seals) being coated in oil. This makes it difficult for them to float and keep warm and they may eventually die. Solid waste in the water encourages the growth of algae which depletes water of oxygen and kills marine life. People, who don’t throw away their trash, throw it on the ground. It is very sad for stray cats and dogs who wander the streets with nothing to eat but garbage. That is how pollution is very effective on animals and how they used to live. Pollution Originates in Nature Volcanic eruptions, sandstorms and natural forest fires are one of the natural activities that cause pollution. These events cause a large amount of substances such as ash and dust, which are harmful to our health, to be added to the environment. The volcanic gases that pose the greatest potential hazard to people, animals, agriculture, and property are sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide which also can be generated by forest fires, and hydrogen fluoride. Sulfur dioxide gas can lead to acid rain and air pollution downwind from a volcano. Globally, large volcano explosive eruptions that inject a tremendous volume of sulfur aerosols into the stratosphere can lead to lower surface temperatures and promote depletion of the Earths ozone layer. Because carbon dioxide gas is heavier than air, the gas may flow into in low-lying areas and collect in the soil. The concentration of carbon dioxide gas in these areas can be lethal to people, animals, and vegetation. A few historic eruptions have released sufficient fluorine-compounds to deform or kill animals that grazed on vegetation coated with volcanic ash; fluorine compounds tend to become concentrated on fine-grained ash particles, which can be ingested by animals. Ways to Prevent Pollution Most human activities produce some waste products, but it is important to make sure that we have as little pollution as possible. Many people are switching to clean technology. That means having the same benefits from our modern life-style without the pollution. Electric cars, environmentally sensitive washing powders and solar-powered energy are examples. Less pollution is not only good for wildlife and nature human health benefits from less pollution as well. That means lower medical bills, and a better quality of life. There are many ways to stop pollution like:- * The best way to prevent water pollution is to not throw trash and other harmful chemicals into our water supplies because it causes harm to the rivers and lakes. * Throw trash in the proper places. * Reduce, reuse, and recycle things in your house. * Because of water run-off, dont put oils down the storm drain. * Cut the plastic ties on sodas so they dont hurt animals in case the ties in up in the bay. Conclusion We should all work to reduce pollution to work towards a greener and safer earth; for the next generation. Let’s give people hope for a better future; and let’s erase the thought of the â€Å"2012† ending, all over the world.

Motion Coherence and Luminance Effects

Motion Coherence and Luminance Effects Jamie Nourzad   Motion Coherence and Luminance Effects on Visual Evoked Potentials The electroencephalogram (EEG) as described by David Eagleman and Jonathan Downar (2016), is a device designed to measure and record brain wave patterns, and was originally designed for evaluating brain activity of epileptic and brain damaged patients (p. 312). The current study is a replication of Kubova, Kuba, Spekreijse, and Blakemores 1995 study utilizing the EEG to measure the effects of coherence and luminance on motion-onset visual evoked potentials (VEPs). The two independent variables looked at in this study were motion coherence (100% coherent and 1% coherent), and luminance (dim vs bright). The hypotheses were (a.) coherence should affect the amplitude of the N2 peak; specifically, that low coherence should result in a higher peak amplitude, and (b.) luminance (brightness) should affect the latency; specifically, that low luminance should delay the peak. Methods Participants The study participants were Kennesaw State University (KSU) student volunteers from three sections of PSYC 4410. Participants were offered course extra credit of 25 points to take part in the study. Student participants served as both subjects and research assistants. There was no selection criterion for the subjects. The participants serving as research assistants administered the electroencephalogram (EEG) on the subjects (n = 16) in Dr. Tim Martins lab at KSU, under direct supervision of Dr. Martin. Recording and Procedure VEPs were recorded with a 40-channel NuAmps amplifier with the filter set at 0.03 200 Hz, the sampling rate set at 500 Hz, and with linked earlobe reference. Participant subjects and research assistants met for scheduled sessions in Dr. Martins lab. Research assistants applied the EEG cap, gel, and electrodes to the subjects. Subjects were given instructions to look at computer generated stimuli: 400 trials (100 per condition) of 500 moving dots (each 0.02 ° of visual angle in size). Stimuli were presented in viewing aperture 5 ° across. Duration was 500 ms, inter-trial interval 500-2000 ms; randomly varied, using uniform distribution. The subjects were asked to perform small mechanical manipulations on the computer keyboard in response to the visual stimuli. The EEG data was processed by using a low pass filter at 45 Hz. The bad epochs were removed from the data, and all blink artifacts were removed with independent components analysis. Results Results successfully replicated earlier findings (Bach, M., Ullrich, D., 1997; Kubova et al., 1995) showing a clear effect of coherence for dim stimuli on amplitude, but there was no apparent effect of coherence for the bright stimuli. See Figure 1. Discussion Analysis of VEPs serves as a tool in detecting various abnormalities that may involve the visual pathways, such as epilepsy and other brain dysfunctions. Implications of the results of this study support previous research providing evidence that there are various neural mechanisms involved in motion-related VEPs that expand beyond the primary visual cortex (Bach, M., Ullrich, D., 1997; Braddick, O.J., OBrien, J.M.D., Wattam-Bell, J., Atkinson, J., Hartley, T., Turner, R., 2001; Kubova et al., 1995). The hypotheses that low coherence would result in a higher N2 peak amplitude was confirmed. Potential confounders to the study would be research assistant inexperience, as well as the inability to control for both internal and external noise, which could degrade the recordings (Jackson, A.F., Bolger, D.J., 2014). References Bach, M., Ullrich, D. (1997). Contrast dependency of motion-onset and pattern-reversal VEPs: Interaction of stimulus type, recording site, and response component. Vision Research, 37, 1845-1849. Braddick, O.J., OBrien, J.M.D., Wattam-Bell, J., Atkinson, J., Hartley, T., Turner, R. (2001). Brain areas sensitive to coherent visual motion. Perception, 30, 61-72. Eagleman, D., Downar, J. (2015). Brain and Behavior: A Cognitive Neuroscience Perspective. Oxford University Press. Jackson, A.F., Bolger, D.J. (2014). The neurophysiological bases of EEG and EEG measurement: A review for the rest of us. Psychophysiology, 51, 1061-1071. Kubova, Z., Kuba, M., Spekreijse, H., Blakemore, C. (1995). Contrast dependence of motion-onset and patter-reversal evoked potentials. Vision Research, 35, 197-205. Figure 1. Coherence for dim and bright stimulus on amplitude.      

Elements of Plato in John Donnes The Good Morrow Essay example -- Don

Elements of Plato in John Donne's The Good Morrow There are clear Platonic elements in Donne's "The Good Morrow." The idea that Donne and his lady are halves that complete each other is traceable to Plato's theory of love. Lines 7 and 8 of the poem refer to the Platonic World of Ideas: the lady is presented as the Idea of Beauty, of which all earthly beauty is but an imperfect reflection. My argument, however, is that Plato's cave allegory and his World of Ideas are integral to a full understanding of this highly complex poem. The first reference to the Platonic cave comes in line 4 of the poem: "Or snorted we in the seven sleepers' den?" The seven sleepers are seven young Christians who were walled up in a cave in the year 249. Miraculously, they did not die but slept for 187 years. This miracle of early Christianity is negatively presented by Donne and the plight of the seven "snorters" may have a relationship to Plato's cave: there are fundamental similarities between Plato's cave-dwellers on the one hand, and the seven Christians (and the biblical myth of Exodus, for that matter) on the other hand, according to Downing. In both cases, there is a God who cares for the people involved, even though they are unaware of this fact; in the first case because they are asleep, in the second because they mistake shadows of shadows for reality. They are both trapped in a cave from which they apparently cannot escape. And they both dwell in darkness. In a poet of Donne's complexity, it is not far-fetched to argue that line 4 refers both to the seven Christians and to Plato's cave-dwellers, and that Donne wished us to read it in precisely this way. Such an argument is reinforced by the fact that the line is immediately followed by... ...a Platonic Idea is, of course, a paradox, as the World of Ideas is not only deathless but supposedly has existed since the beginning of time.) Alternatively, one can argue that Donne (or his poetic voice) experiences a transient relationship in this poem that may or may not develop into a Platonic Idea. Like Plato's cave-dwellers who came out into the light, however, he has learned a great deal and become capable, as a consequence, of achieving the Platonic Idea of sexual love in a possibly new, deathless encounter that is "mixed equally." WORKS CITED Donne, John. "The Good Morrow." The Oxford Anthology of English Literature. Vol. 1. Ed. Frank Kermode and John Hollander. New York: Oxford UP, 1974. 1024-25. Downing, Christopher. "How Can We Hope and Not Dream? Exodus as Metaphor: A Study of the Biblical Imagination." Journal of Religion 48 (1968): 35-53.

Ancient History: Cities of Vesuvius

Using Source A and B and your own knowledge, describe the main features of the economy in Pompeii. -The some of the main features of the economy in Pompeii consisted of: Trade, Commerce, Industry, Occupations, and Public Works. -Trade: Pompeii was the port for Nuceria and Nola, which made it the trading centre for mainly agricultural produce. There are suggestions for the size and nature of the port but this is determined on whether it was a sea port or a river port. Pompeii played an important role in the economy of the Campanian region. Commerce: There were plenty of shops in Pompeii, but the evidence to what was sold in them is very little, and archaeologists can hardly determine what was sold in them. Some shops that have been determine though are: a masons shops and a carpenters shop, both these shops were determined through paintings that had both masons and carpenters tools on it. Markets were important as well. The macellum which was located in the Forum and sold meat and fish. The forum featured a courtyard, a colonnade and a row of shops. The evidence that supports the macellum is fish bones and scales found in a drain beneath the forum structure. Although, not all shops or markets had permanent locations. Evidence from the praedia or estate of Julia Felix makes it clear that there were temporary stalls that sold goods such as shoes, or metal vessels. There were plenty of bars and inns in Pompeii and were mainly located on the main roads and near the gates. The many thermopolia (Source B) acted as bars, the dolia or large terracotta pots embedded in the counters of these shops are generally acknowledged as food or drink holders. Buildings identified as inns have been locate near the Nuceria Gate and the Forum. They consisted of courtyards and upper floor rooms. Industry: Industry played an important part in the economy of Pompeii. Agriculture, Wine and olive oil production were predominant. Pliny once stated ‘more skill was needed to produce olive oil than wine, because the same tree produces different kinds of oil’. The green olive was the olive that had the outstanding taste, and was used mainly for olive oil production. Most of the pressing of oil (Source A: Olive Press) was done in the rich estates, but some were found in Pompeian houses and the Forum granary. Generally presses had to be warmed with large fires, and Cato once stated â€Å"Pompeian presses built from lava stone were the best’. Once olive oil was pressed it was sold at the Oblitarium or oil markets. -Occupations: There is a large amount of evidence from Pompeii concerning the varied occupations of the population. Pompeii had a large community of artisans which included: artists, metalworkers, potters and glassblowers. There were tradesmen, wealthy merchants, manufacturers and service industries employing bakers, innkeepers, bath attendants and brothel keepers. Some evidence to support these occupations are the artworks from Pompeii that depicted cupids engaged in the various crafts and occupations of the townspeople.

Employment and Social Care Worker Essay

All employees receive a contract of employment within several weeks or before starting a new post. A contract of employment discloses information witch together make up the terms and conditions of the individuals employment, such information includes names of the employer and employee, the scale, rate and frequency of wages, hours of work and any conditions relating to these, job tittle and disruption, place of work and the length of notice to terminate employment. For example within the contract of employment it will state how many hours of work per week the employee will undertake, if the employee fails to comply with these conditions it could lead to disciplinary action or termination of the contract by the employer. Describe the information shown on own payslip. Information that is show on a payslip includes: Payments, Deductions, National Insurance number, Bank Account details, Tax code, Annual salary/ hourly rate, Payroll reference and Pay date. Payment and deductions are shown on a payslip so the individual can see how much they have earned since their last payslip and how much of that pay has been deducted, it is also shown so that if there is a mistake in the amount that has been paid or deducted from them the individual can resolve the problem through the appropriate means. By law every employee has a certain amount deducted from their wages; this covers National insurance and income tax and any other deduction that have been agreed with the employer such as pension contributions. Identify two changes to personal information that must be kept up to date with the employer. Information on employees that must be kept up to date includes, the employee’s home address, Work, home and mobile number and all emergency/ next of Kin contact details. Details such as the employees work home and mobile number must be kept up to date with the employer, if such detail are not kept up to date, and there is an emergency that requires the employees to attend, other employees and the employer will not be able to get hold of the individual as quickly as is needed witch may result in disciplinary action if there was a fatality. It is the employee’s responsibility to update and change any of their own personal information and to inform the manager/employer about such changes. Describe the procedure to follow in the event of a grievance. According to the OCC (Oxfordshire County Council) Resolving Grievances policy the procedure to follow in the event of a grievance is as follows; Employees should aim to resolve most if not all grievances informally. This is done by the employee talking to their line manager or person concerned, such as a service user. The employee should explain clearly what the problem/concern is, and with little disruption the employee should also aim to resolve disputes through discussion and seek to understand the views and perspective of those involved. It is the responsibility of all employees and managers to try and resolve disputes and problems as quickly as possible. If a grievance can not be resolved informally then there is a formal grievance procedure to follow. This involves filling out a grievance form, a ‘written statement for the purpose of the grievance meeting and any investigation. This form is then sent to the employee’s line manager and a copied to the HR management advice team, who will send a letter of conformation of the receipt of the grievance. After this a formal grievance meeting will be arranged, this will involve the employee who filled out the grievance form, the grievance manager and a HR advisor. It is the job of the grievance manager to decide what actions to take at the end of the meeting, this may be that the grievance manager adjourns the meeting to conduct an investigation to obtain more information or they may decide to put in place actions to resolve the matter. Explain agreed ways of working with the employer in the following areas: -Data Protection At ADTS (Abingdon Daytime Support) there are procedures to follow when writing in individuals support notes, to keep their confidentiality. When writing support notes, staff at ADTS make sure that the information they are writing is relevant to that individual, and if other service users need to be mentioned staff are to use their initials and not their full names. -Grievance At ADTS, staffs use an OCC ‘resolving grievances’ policy to resolve any grievance or complaints they may have. This policy states that staffs are to, at first try and resolve the grievance informally, by talking to the individual(s) involved and try to understand each individual’s perspective and put in place actions, such as control measure, to resolve the grievance. If the grievance cannot be resolved informally, staffs are to resolve the grievance formally by arranging a grievance meeting and following actions, stated in the policy to resolve the grievance as quickly as possible and with little distress to those involved. -Conflict Management -Anti-discriminatory practice Staffs, at ADTS, follow OCC policies such as, ‘equality and diversity’ to provide a seamless service which includes all individuals not matter how demanding their needs may be. Staffs at ADTS are encouraged to adapted games and activities for each individual, so that they can join in every activity possible. For example, Staff at ADTS take GE (a service user who attends the day service) Bowling with a small group of more abled service users, GE users a wheelchair to mobilise and has little mobility control over his limbs. -Health and safety At ADTS, staffs follow a local heath and safety policy as well as the OCC Health and Safety policy parts 1, 2 and 3. Part 1 is the general heath and safety policy, part 2 is health and safety for management and part 3 is health and safety for day services. -Confidentiality At ADTS staffs follow the Data protection Act and the OCC ‘confidentiality statement’ to comply legally and respectfully to individuals confidentiality. The confidentiality statement and Data protection Act state that Information should only be shared on a need to know basis, For example if a support worker needed to disclose any information to an individuals GP then the support worker must ensure that the information they give is relevant and only necessary information is given. If staff disclosed information that the GP did not need to know, then that staff member has broken the individuals confidentiality and may face disciplinary actions. -Whistle blowing Explain how own work role contributes to the overall delivery of the service provided. As a social care worker, what you do within the workplace affects the overall service. For example if social care workers put in place a good working practice then the effect on the service overall is a positive one, this is because a good working practices means that the social care worker works with person centred approaches, to make sure the service provided is a inclusive and friendly, leaving service users felling positive and valued as a person. Alternatively as a social care worker, what you do within the workplace can have a negative affect on the overall service provided. For example if a social care worker does not follow a good working practice or doesn’t comply with a policy or procedure then there is a negative affect on the overall service, this may be through negligence, failure to follow a procedure may leave an individual without the appropriate support they need, leading to their need not being met and leaving the individual themselves feeling undervalued and disrespected.

Free Essays on The Problem Child

Positive Expectations are statements that parents make to their child about what is appropriate behavior. The goal of this tool to is to teach children what parents want, not what they don't want. For example, telling children that dirty clothes belong in the laundry basket is more effective than telling children to stop leaving their clothes on the floor. Telling a child that feet belong on the floor is easier for a child to understand than telling them to take their feet off the table. State what you want, not what you don't want. This tool increases cooperation and ensures that parents are communicating in a way that children can understand. Coping with a problem child can be very difficult for the parent. In order for the child to overcome his misbehavior, I have come up with a two-week plan to insure that he or she will learn and adapt to their new environment. When you notice rebelliousness, first give a reminder about what they are doing wrong. Remember to make direct eye contact. This simple strategy will work most of the time. Begin to think of an effective consequence if the reminder doesn't work. An effective consequence is 1) clear and specific; 2) logically related to the misbehavior; 3) time-limited; 4) varied. Continued misbehavior requires a warning of the consequence or even an effective punishment. The punishment should not be aggressive or threatening. It should be thoroughly explained for why the punishment is being given. When speaking with the child about their inappropriate behavior, move closer to the child than normal conversational distance and make direct and prolonged eye contact. Be very specific about your expectation and the time frame for compliance. Tell him exactly what the consequence of noncompliance will be. Walk away and give him the opportunity to comply. If the warning doesn't work, send the child to his room while you both cool off. Ignore arguing, whining or expressions of anger. After a... Free Essays on The Problem Child Free Essays on The Problem Child Positive Expectations are statements that parents make to their child about what is appropriate behavior. The goal of this tool to is to teach children what parents want, not what they don't want. For example, telling children that dirty clothes belong in the laundry basket is more effective than telling children to stop leaving their clothes on the floor. Telling a child that feet belong on the floor is easier for a child to understand than telling them to take their feet off the table. State what you want, not what you don't want. This tool increases cooperation and ensures that parents are communicating in a way that children can understand. Coping with a problem child can be very difficult for the parent. In order for the child to overcome his misbehavior, I have come up with a two-week plan to insure that he or she will learn and adapt to their new environment. When you notice rebelliousness, first give a reminder about what they are doing wrong. Remember to make direct eye contact. This simple strategy will work most of the time. Begin to think of an effective consequence if the reminder doesn't work. An effective consequence is 1) clear and specific; 2) logically related to the misbehavior; 3) time-limited; 4) varied. Continued misbehavior requires a warning of the consequence or even an effective punishment. The punishment should not be aggressive or threatening. It should be thoroughly explained for why the punishment is being given. When speaking with the child about their inappropriate behavior, move closer to the child than normal conversational distance and make direct and prolonged eye contact. Be very specific about your expectation and the time frame for compliance. Tell him exactly what the consequence of noncompliance will be. Walk away and give him the opportunity to comply. If the warning doesn't work, send the child to his room while you both cool off. Ignore arguing, whining or expressions of anger. After a...

Life of James Mcbride Essay Example

Life of James Mcbride Essay Example Life of James Mcbride Paper Life of James Mcbride Paper McBride, a young colored man deals with growing up and having a white mother. James McBride always realized that his mother was different from his friends mothers, but he never understood why. He would always ask his mother why she was different but she would Just reply that all people are the same. He never knew anything about the background of his mother because she never talked about it and he was afraid to ask. She would ride her old bicycle in an all black neighborhood that was run by the black panthers. James was scared for his mother because even though he was young at the time, he knew what was going on. I think that this book was an impressive view on how twelve young colored children reacted towards having a white mother during the civil rights movement. James McBride was the youngest of his twelve siblings. His father died before he was born and his mother remarried soon after. He could always tell that his mother was unlike his friends mothers. When I asked her If she was white, shed say, No. Im light-skinned, and change the subject gall(McBride, 21 When James was round the age of twelve, his step-father bought his mother an old beat-up bicycle. She would ride it all around the town and James friends would always ask him why his mother looked so different. Along with being tantalizing, Sesames family was impoverished. One washcloth was used by all. A solitary toothbrush would five sets of teeth and gums. (McBride, 68). The family remained as one. Even though young James was curious about his mother and life in general, it didnt hold him back from asking questions. He asked things such as what color was Jesus? and who am l? And where did you come from mommy? . His mother always avoided the questions by answering them by saying Jesus is all the colors and You are who you are and l came from where everyone else came from. (McBride, 12-13). His mother did not want him to discuss their family with anyone else. You stick to your brothers and sisters, thats It. Dont tell nobody your business neither! (McBride, 12-13) As James was growing up, he developed many different feelings. He survived through the civil rights movement with a white mother, he completed high school ND moved onto college, and he found out the truth about his mother. He found out that his mother had a name besides mother. l had never heard that name before. Even in recounting what little she had told me of her life, Mommy had never referred to herself as Rachel. (McBride, 207). He also found out that his mother was Jewish and she was born in Poland. After James graduated from high school he attended Oberlin College and then got his masters degree in Journalism from Colombia university. When James was in college his mother was diagnosed with cancer. 01 ad a little bump on my face and she made me see this fancy doctor. Now I goat wear this dumb hat all the time. It makes me look Like a rooster. (McBride, 260). James grew In many ways from this experience. All of his life he has had his mother there to lean on and care for. As soon as she was diagnosed he realized he had to start living Nils own Tie Dye enamels. He recognizer Nils mother as a notable woman. All of her twelve children grew up to be happy and successful. Mommys children are extraordinary people, most of them leaders in their own right. AY of them had doted more mental baggage and dealt with more hardship than they care to remember, yet they carry themselves with a giant measure of dignity, humility, and humor (McBride, 277). All of them had grown up to be doctors, chemists, teachers, and writers. James views his life as a suffering with the outcome of having his dreams come true. We sat up for many n ights listening to me recite my dreams but in reality of the hard days that followed. (McBride, 291). He views his mother as a paramount woman. She taught her children that God and their educations came before anything. This theory made them succeed. Thats money if your mind is empty? (McBride, 9). Sesames family was the first thing on his mind always. He felt that his life has been fulfilled in every way. He was living in a time of revolution. When he was younger, his mother meant the most to him, he felt no matter how old he was he could protect her Just as she had protected him. It frightened the hell out of me. I thought to myself, These people will kill Mommy. (McBride,27). Overall James thinks that his younger, poor life lead up to his older, wealthier life. I think that this book was a great analysis on how a destitute black family with a white mother succeeded through a revolution. The organization of the book was efficient. The first chapter was about the mothers background and the second was about Sesames life. Then the chapters alternated with his mothers and then his throughout the book. I think that this was a good way to establish chapters because it was easier to appreciate the book. This book discussed Just about every aspect of James whole life up until he wrote the book. It was a great touching story. I think that this book was an impressive view on how twelve young colored children reacted towards having a white mother during the civil rights movement. I think that this book was a great analysis on how a destitute black family with a white mother succeeded through a revolution. This book would be great for a person with an open mind and a person who would want to read a touching story on a mans life. You need a great outlook on life to appreciate this story the way that the author wants you to. I would recommend it to almost everyone.

Original Olympic Games Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Original Olympic Games - Research Paper Example Although, the spirit by which this festival was revived again in this present world involves replicating that same concept on which ancient Olympics originated. But unfortunately the cloning was not successful due to insufficient data and absence of actual essence of the festival. The fact that Olympics in ancient Greece, originated as a result of social, emotional and religious needs rather than a commercialized value is a major factor in the distinguished grade among two societies. The original Olympic festival in the time when Zeus was worshipped as god had an abundant social value as compared to today’s modern world Olympics. The Call: Let us look at the history of Olympics before we extend our debate on the above agenda. It was named after ‘Olympia’ a city in Greece located near the western coast of the Peloponnese, where these events started. According to many researchers and literature available it is estimated that these events started around 776 BC and re mained until 395 AD (Swaddling 1984). The festival was announced once every four year and on hearing the call, Greek citizens from all over the world poured in for celebrations. By land all the spectators from the neighboring areas used to flood in Olympia, the venue for all these spectacular events. Olympia was situated along the river Alpheios mainly the northern bank. It was a remote area with nice natural habitats at the foot of a famous hill called ‘Kronos’ a name given in the honor of Cronus, father of Zeus (Swaddling 1984). So one of the possible routes was over the waters and thousands of enthusiasts also joined the sea caravan from as far as Africa and Spain. Therefore, it was a call no one could reject or ignore. Despite the fact that this was not an easy journey about 40000 Greek citizens used to witness this outstanding event. This shows nothing but their commitment and respect of this enormous occasion. The distance they had to travel was huge and the means of transport not even comparable to the present world. The festival was held normally during summer in the mid august or mid September which was the hottest time of the year. Many would question the logic of keeping such a strenuous event in such an extreme weather. But in my view, the time was suitable and carefully chosen. Most of the people during that age relied on growing crops and were farmers, this time of the year was ideal as they had just finished with the hard work of harvesting their crops and were free to relax and enjoy the celebrations. There were no proper roads and the pathway was rough with many obstacles as Olympia was a far isolated place. Robbery and mugging was just few of many fears on the way to their destination (Crowther 2007). However, there was a universal Olympic truce that kept hostile forces under control. One of the best possible ways to reach Olympus was by boat but again pirates and shipwreck were a constant threat. Still, their spirits were mounta in high and they had only one common goal to be part of this auspicious event. Not Just a Sport: If we picture Olympics today, we think of a grand opening ceremony followed by hundreds of players participating in a sport contest. Representing their country they play for the honor of their homeland and for their own fame and pride. For the people of Greece, athletics was not only a sport it was a source of spiritual tranquility. As it is evident in many authentic literatures that in those ancient times athletic events were held at funerals as a ritual to gratify the spirit of the dead. In mainland Greece, when Mycenaean’

Toyota Scion Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Toyota Scion - Research Paper Example mpetitors of scion can’t be said to possess a competitive advantage, but for scion FR-S which has numerous competition can be said to be very trendy due to its engine performance as well the sporty look. The main reason as to why the target market becomes attractive from the descriptive analysis of the target market below is due to the fact that Generation-Y is not fully exploited in automotive industry. This categories of people is estimated to purchase 40% of vehicles bought according to a report by Deloitte. There is a foreseeable increase in the purchases of automobiles from the young generation as indicated by experts (Barkholz, 2012). The market niche of this car can be said to be expanded taking into consideration the Scion FR-S since the older generation considers it due to its performance. This makes the brand to a wider demographic penetrating beyond the targeted segment. Scion operates in a market with stiff competition where trends keep changing and therefore, the brand is continuously threatened by new and upcoming vehicles. As such, Scion has adopted a competitive positioning strategy that seeks to provide new market offing to the market by appealing to the perception of the consumers. Since the target market for scion brands is generation Y, scion has undertaken to appeal to youths through such features such as installation of better standard audio features and special financing for students. Scion’s competitive positioning is also rooted in their marketing campaigns and advertising. The company has realized the need for new untraditional ways of marketing by acknowledging that fact that their target market is very resilient to mass-marketing. Since the target market for scion brands spends most of their time in the internet, most of the marketing campaigns are done online. This makes it possible to communicate with consumers through email campaigns and online chats. Scion also employs the association to most of the elements of generation Y

Executive-level financial report to the chief financial officer (CFO) Research Paper

Executive-level financial report to the chief financial officer (CFO) of a mythical company - Research Paper Example In order to evaluate past financial performance, the report studied how Sprint established relationship between Revenue and Expenses, as well as Cash flow and debt. In order to evaluate past stock performance, the report studied dynamics of stock and EPS. The report paid substantial attention to Sprint’s upcoming projects. Sprint Nextel Corporation (Sprint) is a communication company that operates in two segments: Wireless and Wireline. In the United States, Sprint is the third largest wireless carrier company after Verizon and AT&T (FORM 10 – K, 2010). It serves about 55 million customers with mobile voice, data, and web service under the Sprint corporate brand, which includes retail brands of Sprint, Nextel, Boost Mobile, Virgin Mobile, and Assurance Wireless on networks that utilize the third generation (3G) code division multiple access (CDMA), integrated Digital Enhanced Network (iDEN), or Internet protocol (IP) technologies (Company Information, 2013). High Technology Corporation (HTC) is a new fully integrated wireless communication service provider for the international market. HTC after competitive technical and economical product evaluation has determined to select Sprint as a potential supplier. This report intends to evaluate Sprint’s past financial and stock performances, an alyze current and future business aspects in order to recommend if Sprint would remain financially strong to enter into a long-term contract with the HTC. On February 7, 2013, the Associated press reported that Sprint lost $1.3 billion in the preceding fourth quarter, about the same as a year ago. In the period from October to December, the company lost 44 cents a share. The loss is steady as in the previous year, but revenue went up 3.2 percent from 8.7 billion to 9.0 billion during the same period a year ago. This increase was attributed to customers changing regular phones

Cold War Years Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cold War Years - Essay Example The strength of the country is based on its alliance with the United States, which has to be sustained in order to continue strengthening its position in the region (Forsberg 3). As a capitalist country that pursues a free market, it is essential to note that its alliance with the United States has helped it stem any potential aggression towards it from the Soviet Union. Japan has the advantage of having a ready market for its products in the United States and this has enabled it to ensure its continued economic growth while at the same time helping it stabilize it after the Second World War. As a result of its alliance with the United States, Japan has once again come to attain a preeminent role in the world and this is no mean feat considering the dire conditions in the country after the war. Japan has numerous threats both domestic and external that have a potential of undermining its position. Among these is the increasing aggressiveness of the Soviet Union in the Asian region. The Soviet Union shares a common border with Japan and this has a potential of conflict taking place as a result of a possible violation of its borders. Furthermore, Japan might end up being a target of the communist regimes that are springing up across the region as seen in Vietnam and North Korea, at the instigation of the Soviet Union. The history of Japan and neighboring states such as Korea and China prior to the Second World War has left these countries with a sense of injustice and hatred that might result in their choosing to attack Japan as a means of exacting revenge. It has therefore become essential for Japan to take swift action in order to safeguard its interests against those who would seek to undermine it. Currently, Japan does not have any conflicts with any other country in the region and the government should strive to ensure that the situation remains the same. Among the most

Difference between B2B and B2C Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Difference between B2B and B2C Marketing - Essay Example The relationship shared by a company with external clients, whether general consumers or other businesses, is a vital aspect and requires careful strategic planning. B2B marketing and B2C marketing have therefore evolved into important areas of study in marketing. The current paper aims at understanding the differences existing between the two marketing models. The research has been carried out in respect of the B2B and B2C marketing strategies existing in the airline industry in reference to Qantas airlines (Basole and Rouse, 2008). While marketing products to other businesses, preference is given to the logic of the product. Time and cost saving are the most important features which are highlighted. B2B marketing involves careful strategic analysis of the different organizational processes. The need for seeking an in-depth knowledge regarding a firm’s operations, supply chain, value chain and overall resource management process is higher in the B2B marketing process (Vargo a nd Lusch, 2008). Relations with suppliers are also seen to hold an important place in such a marketing approach. In contrast to such marketing strategies, B2C marketing strategies center upon attracting consumers by highlighting the benefits and the uses of the product. Consumers are seen to remain more focused on the features and uses of a product (Vargo and Lusch, 2008). Price and quality are also important factors which should be considered while marketing products to the consumers. There are also fundamental differences in the manner in which the products and services are presented in B2B and B2C marketing. In B2B marketing, products are presented using consultative sales techniques.

Mathemathics Game Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Mathemathics Game Critique - Essay Example At the top of the screen, there is a timer indicating time remaining while the student is answering the questions. If the student gets the incorrect answer, the boy on the screen will tell the player to try again. A score is also given to the students at the end of the game. When the game is finished and when the student gets the correct answers, a big fish will appear on the screen saying ‘congratulations’. There are a few mathematical concepts addressed in this game. This game allows students to build their subtraction knowledge. It allows them to develop timing skills as there is a timer indicating how fast they are at answering the questions. The skill in recognising numbers is also required in order to answer the questions. Moreover, this game allows students to build their skills in visualising numbers and getting the correct answers. In the end, it can also provide a good mental practice for the students. However, this game can also have negative effects especiall y when some children may get bored after they keep getting the incorrect answers. Despite such negative effects, this technology, along with other computer games can enhance children’s mathematical learning. These mathematical games can also help improve their mental skills, as well as their reasoning, strategic thinking, and logic, and these are skills which are important in problem solving. (Hunting, 2012, p. 69). The following content outcomes are addressed: NS1.2 Addition and Subtraction- Uses a range of mental strategies and informal recording methods for addition and subtraction involving one- and two-digit numbers The following are the syllabus process outcomes: Questioning WMS1.1 Asks questions that could be explored using mathematics in relation to Stage 1 content Applying Strategies WMS1.2 Uses objects, diagrams, imagery and technology to explore mathematical problems Reasoning WMS1.4 Supports conclusions by explaining or demonstrating how answers were obtained. Ref lecting WMS1.5 Links mathematical ideas and makes connections with, and generalisations about, existing knowledge and understanding in relation to Stage 1 content There is a way to implement this game in the classroom. The implementation would involve seating the children in their chairs and then explaining to them what the game is. The explanation would have to include the use of an interactive whiteboard, a computer, or an overhead screen which would allow the teacher to go online and demonstrate the game. This game would require the children working independently. At the end of the lesson, the teacher would have to allow time for discussions in order to ensure that the students can share their difficulties and challenges in playing the game. Since this game involves subtraction strategies, any student who finds the game difficult should be allowed to speak up during discussion times. The teacher must also ensure that the students can reflect on the game and their experience while playing the game. There are many ways for differentiation within Stage 1. These include: Making the game into two players, as this would encourage a healthy sense of competition among the students, especially those seeking to excel in the game. Getting the students in the classroom to record the question and answer portions. This can be done by putting two students in each computer with one student playing the game, while the other would record the questi

Cold War Years Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cold War Years - Essay Example The strength of the country is based on its alliance with the United States, which has to be sustained in order to continue strengthening its position in the region (Forsberg 3). As a capitalist country that pursues a free market, it is essential to note that its alliance with the United States has helped it stem any potential aggression towards it from the Soviet Union. Japan has the advantage of having a ready market for its products in the United States and this has enabled it to ensure its continued economic growth while at the same time helping it stabilize it after the Second World War. As a result of its alliance with the United States, Japan has once again come to attain a preeminent role in the world and this is no mean feat considering the dire conditions in the country after the war. Japan has numerous threats both domestic and external that have a potential of undermining its position. Among these is the increasing aggressiveness of the Soviet Union in the Asian region. The Soviet Union shares a common border with Japan and this has a potential of conflict taking place as a result of a possible violation of its borders. Furthermore, Japan might end up being a target of the communist regimes that are springing up across the region as seen in Vietnam and North Korea, at the instigation of the Soviet Union. The history of Japan and neighboring states such as Korea and China prior to the Second World War has left these countries with a sense of injustice and hatred that might result in their choosing to attack Japan as a means of exacting revenge. It has therefore become essential for Japan to take swift action in order to safeguard its interests against those who would seek to undermine it. Currently, Japan does not have any conflicts with any other country in the region and the government should strive to ensure that the situation remains the same. Among the most

Mathemathics Game Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Mathemathics Game Critique - Essay Example At the top of the screen, there is a timer indicating time remaining while the student is answering the questions. If the student gets the incorrect answer, the boy on the screen will tell the player to try again. A score is also given to the students at the end of the game. When the game is finished and when the student gets the correct answers, a big fish will appear on the screen saying ‘congratulations’. There are a few mathematical concepts addressed in this game. This game allows students to build their subtraction knowledge. It allows them to develop timing skills as there is a timer indicating how fast they are at answering the questions. The skill in recognising numbers is also required in order to answer the questions. Moreover, this game allows students to build their skills in visualising numbers and getting the correct answers. In the end, it can also provide a good mental practice for the students. However, this game can also have negative effects especiall y when some children may get bored after they keep getting the incorrect answers. Despite such negative effects, this technology, along with other computer games can enhance children’s mathematical learning. These mathematical games can also help improve their mental skills, as well as their reasoning, strategic thinking, and logic, and these are skills which are important in problem solving. (Hunting, 2012, p. 69). The following content outcomes are addressed: NS1.2 Addition and Subtraction- Uses a range of mental strategies and informal recording methods for addition and subtraction involving one- and two-digit numbers The following are the syllabus process outcomes: Questioning WMS1.1 Asks questions that could be explored using mathematics in relation to Stage 1 content Applying Strategies WMS1.2 Uses objects, diagrams, imagery and technology to explore mathematical problems Reasoning WMS1.4 Supports conclusions by explaining or demonstrating how answers were obtained. Ref lecting WMS1.5 Links mathematical ideas and makes connections with, and generalisations about, existing knowledge and understanding in relation to Stage 1 content There is a way to implement this game in the classroom. The implementation would involve seating the children in their chairs and then explaining to them what the game is. The explanation would have to include the use of an interactive whiteboard, a computer, or an overhead screen which would allow the teacher to go online and demonstrate the game. This game would require the children working independently. At the end of the lesson, the teacher would have to allow time for discussions in order to ensure that the students can share their difficulties and challenges in playing the game. Since this game involves subtraction strategies, any student who finds the game difficult should be allowed to speak up during discussion times. The teacher must also ensure that the students can reflect on the game and their experience while playing the game. There are many ways for differentiation within Stage 1. These include: Making the game into two players, as this would encourage a healthy sense of competition among the students, especially those seeking to excel in the game. Getting the students in the classroom to record the question and answer portions. This can be done by putting two students in each computer with one student playing the game, while the other would record the questi

The rate of reaction Essay Example for Free

The rate of reaction Essay Add 50 cubic centimetres of hydrogen peroxide to a conical flask Add liquidised celery solution to hydrogen peroxide and place bung over conical flask After 30 seconds, see how much oxygen has been produced Celery Concentrations Volume of Celery (cm3) Volume of water (cm3) Concentration of celery (%) 80 20 80 60 40 60 40 60 40 20 80 20 Results Tables First Repeat Time (seconds) Celery Concentration (%) Amount of hydrogen peroxide (cm3). Volume of oxygen produced (cm3) Second Repeat Time (seconds) Celery Concentration (%) Amount of hydrogen peroxide (cm3) Volume of oxygen produced (cm3) Third Repeat Time (seconds) Celery Concentration (%) Amount of hydrogen peroxide (cm3) Volume of oxygen produced (cm3)Â   Averages Time (seconds) Celery concentration (%) Amount of hydrogen peroxide (cm3) Volume of oxygen produced Analysing evidence and concluding From the graph I have drawn using the above table of averages, I can see that as the concentration of the enzyme catalase increases, the amount of oxygen produced also increases. I can also see from my table of results that as the concentration of the enzyme increases, the volume of oxygen increases. This shows that the rate of reaction increases, which supports my prediction. The reason for this is the Collision Theory, as stated in my prediction. The Collision Theory states that the more particles there are in a solution or area, the higher the rate of reaction will be because there are more particles, therefore there are more collisions, meaning there is an increased chance of successful collisions in which the two particles react. In this experiment, when the particles react, they break down the hydrogen peroxide and create oxygen and water. As the volume of oxygen increased with positive correlation to the amount of the enzyme in the mixture, I can see that the rate of reaction was increased, thus proving my prediction to be correct. Please see also attached graph. Evaluation The experiment was relatively easy, in that the variables were easy to identify, control or measure, which means that the readings from the experiment should be very accurate. The apparatus was set up in such a way that I think the results are very reliable. The tubing and bung all fitted well into their respective receptacles, thus no oxygen could have escaped from there. The only time and place the oxygen could have escaped was the period between adding the liquidised celery to the hydrogen peroxide, and placing the bung into the conical flask containing the mixture. Unfortunately, there was nothing I could do to stop this, except try and replace the bung as quickly as I could. There do not seem to be any anomalous results, except in the third repeat when I was using a concentration of forty percent celery. After ten seconds, I measured no oxygen whatsoever, and I presume this was due to a fault in the tubing; perhaps there were slight gaps that I had overlooked during that repeat. However, as this is the only time there is an anomaly within the results, I must assume that the rest of my results are accurate and reliable, and therefore the equipment was set up correctly and performed well. I think that my results are sufficiently reliable to support my conclusion (see above) because they match my prediction and scientific knowledge of this subject, and the figures I have obtained seem reasonable. I know they are accurate because I was careful to be accurate when taking readings from the gas syringe, and I am sure they are reliable because they do match scientific theory, as taken from text books, etc. , and my prediction, which was made using scientific knowledge from various sources. To improve the reliability of the experiment, I think it would be necessary to find a way of feeding the celery into the conical flask, perhaps via another tube system, where it would be possible to add the celery to the hydrogen peroxide without losing any of the oxygen produced.

The Spread Of Disease Around The World

The Spread Of Disease Around The World The increased movement of both goods and people increases opportunities for the spread of disease around the world. There are also concerns about the following: potential public health problems due to market liberalisation, the emergence of new diseases globally and worsening of existing ones due to climate change and governmental oversight over economic policies that can affect spending on healthcare. International cooperation as a result of globalisation has also had a great impact on health practices in many countries including Europe. You are a health care worker in a management position at the WHO office in Geneva employed as medical technician responsible for supervising WHO activities in some central European countries. Globalization describes increased global integration in the economic, social, technological, cultural, political and ecological spheres. It is the product of the emergence of the global economy, expansion of transnational linkages between economic units creating new forms of collective decision making, development of intergovernmental and quasi-supranational institutions, intensification of transnational communications and the creation of new regional and military orders. [Hershock, Mason Hawkins, 2007, p.30] Over many centuries, human societies across the globe have established progressively closer contacts. Recently, the pace of global integration has dramatically increased. Unprecedented changes in communications, transportation, and computer technology have given the process new drive and made the world more interdependent than ever. Multinational corporations manufacture products in many countries and sell to consumers around the world. Money, technology and raw materials move e ver more swiftly across national borders. Along with products and finances, ideas and cultures circulate more freely. As a result, laws, economies, and social movements are forming at the international level. Globalization is characterized by the circulation of goods and services between countries in response to criteria of efficiency. Such multilateral agreements between countries, unfortunately, often function to the detriment of the countries with less developed economies. Nevertheless, trade can also benefit developing countries. Outsourcing is one situation in which developing countries that are able to adopt standards, processes, and language of developed countries can benefit from the liberalization of the movement of goods and services. By undertaking some or all components of production or service provision for clients/consumers in the developed country, some economic benefits may occur to the developing country where the outsourced service is provided. But what, we might ask, is the impact of the process of globalization generally and outsourcing more particularly in the health care sector? The movement of professionals in general tends to be detrimental to poorer countries. There are two aspects to this. The most classic is the settlement of young professionals, originally from less developed countries, in more developed countries from which they have graduated with professional credentials. A second phenomenon is the policy of some rich countries, who because they lack doctors and nurses, try to recruit recently trained graduates from poorer countries. The movement of professionals in this way is facilitated by systems that recognize degrees internationally. We foresee at least two issues that should be considered. The first is the potential of such developments to improve the quality in health care within the world. The second relates to issues of access to health care and the ethical dimensions associated [Villa-Caballero L. Globalization and bioethics in health resources (Spanish). Gac Med Mex 2004; 140 (1): 103-106]. Developing international standards in medical education and health care delivery can help improving quality in health care all over the world. Nevertheless, two questions remain. To what extent can one be sure that international standards can be created that will fit the cultural, social, and economical contexts of very different countries? It is often assumed that, simply demonstrating compliance with quality processes, will lead to a result (of the education or of the treatment) that will be the same, whatever the country or the professionals involved. But to what extent can we be sure that applying, for example, North American (or European, or for that matter African or Asian) procedures and quality rules in other countries will lead to adequate quality? Without doubt, globalization poses risks to global health, but it also provides benefits. And although many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) decry the negative effects of increasing globalization, they have also clearly benefited from it to improve healthcare delivery and health policy in many developing countries. A recent key contribution of the global NGO movement lies with the adoption of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). NGOs had an essential and vital role at the local, national and international levels in all development phases of the FCTC (Mackay, 2003) (Mackay J (2003) The making of a convention on tobacco control. Bull WHO 81: 551), and their contribution continues as they actively work with countries in the FCTC ratification process. Globalization has also brought about improvements in research methodology, and some argue that clinical research has become more sophisticated as a result (Wassenaar, 2003) Wassenaar W (2003) Providing services globally: the experience of an internet pharmacy. Healthc Pap 4: 69à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢74. Other benefits of globalization include cross-border use of health services that benefit patients and provide much needed resources to national health systems (Jain, 2003) (Jain SC (2003) Globalization of medical services: antidote for rising costs. Healthc Pap 4: 39à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢44)and improved regulatory practices (Wassenaar, 2003) Wassenaar W (2003) Providing services globally: the experience of an internet pharmacy. Healthc Pap 4: 69à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢74. Finally, one should not underestimate the power of knowledge as it empowers populations and individuals and, in turn, allows them to hold to account their political and professional leaders (Ellis, 2003) (Ellis P (2003) Globalization of healthcare: a UK perspective. Healthc Pap 4: 45à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢49). (word count: 659) Assess the influence of international institutions in healthcare settings The term globalization describes the integration of economic systems through improved communication, but it also represents increased insecurity for those with few resources particularly refugees. This article examines why people migrate, their numbers, constraints on their movement and their particular health care needs. Immigrants have much to contribute to their recipient countries, but at some loss to their homelands. Both economically and morally, more liberal immigration policies would be beneficial. Policies towards asylum seekers should not be more restrictive in the aftermath of 11 September 2001 and detention should be the exception rather than the rule. Globalization should be managed so as to improve peoples lives throughout the world. Quantifying the effect of the EU on the healthcare sector is impossible. For every concrete example, such as the standardization of pacemakers or urinary catheters, there is an intangible one where the benefits cannot be measured. How, for example, do you measure the benefit of the EU-supported exchange and cooperation among hospitals, medical schools, and universities? European Union-funded programs, such as the Socrates-Erasmus Program to promote exchange of teachers and students, and the Leonardo da Vinci Program supporting exchange between healthcare professionals, have unforeseen spin-offs. Health telematics is another huge domain where there has been extensive collaboration. Electronic healthcare records, common European health cards, international data exchange, and the plethora of high-tech telemedicine projects the scope and potential for co-operation and exchange if not total harmonization are endless. The greatest challenge facing the EU, however, is undoubtedly European enlargement. To join the club, applicant countries need to meet stringent requirements. In its turn, the EU, and its institutions, will have to transform into a more transparent and workable entity. Considerations other than health will continue to dominate its business for the foreseeable future. But striving to create greater equality between western Europe and the poorly resourced member states of central and eastern Europe (with their notably worse morbidity and mortality) is a challenge to rise to. For what is the European dream about, if not that? (word count: 337) Evaluate the impact of European Union membership on workplace health practices. The European Union (EU) is obliged to improve public health and to ensure a high level of health protection in all fields of Community policy. In a few areas, namely workplace health and safety and consumer protection, it is even entitled to set minimum standards for the Member States. However, even in the few fields where the EU exerts explicit regulatory authority, it only plays a subsidiary role, limited to promoting cooperation among Member States and complementing national policies. In general it is only allowed to take action where European activity is supposed to produce better results, rather than act at the Member State level. Moreover, member states still retain the competence to shape their national health care systems, e.g. the organization of health care delivery including the institutional organization of care and the division of labor among the various occupational groups. Nevertheless, the EU is not unimportant in the field of health policy. The EU derives its influence mainly from the provisions of the Common Market and the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). The creation of the Common Market in 1992 not only provided for the free movement of capital and goods, but also of people and services, the so-called four freedoms. These principles also apply specifically to the health care sector. Therefore, the authority of Member States to shape their health care systems cannot be equated with unlimited freedom of action. The European Court of Justice has ruled that Member States must abide by the principles of free movement of goods, services, capital, and persons when exercising their authority. Thus, economic integration limits the member states freedom of action in health policy. The current text analyzes the effects of European integration on transnational migration of health professionals and the attempts to regulate it. Finally, some countries have restricted the immediate unlimited free movement for employees from the newly admitted member states because of concerns that the job market may not be able to handle immigration from neighboring countries. Thus, Germany and Austria have introduced a five-year transition period during which immigration from Member States is not allowed. This period may be extended for another two years. Other Member States like Italy have restricted the total number of immigrant professionals to an annual maximum. Spain and Greece are especially interested in limiting immigration of foreign physicians and nurses because they already have quite a large supply of qualified health care employees. Thus, free movement of persons has not materialized completely for all Member States. ( Word count :1411 ) Question 2 You are employed by Sahara oil company based in Qatar as their Occupational Health expert. You have responsibilities for the environmental health issues of Sahara oils operations in Qatar. As well, you are responsible for maintaining a healthy work force. Identify the economics of adopting a policy of environmental awareness in heath care settings. The healthcare industry produces millions of tons of waste each year and is one of the largest consumers of energy in the United States. This article focuses on how nurses can facilitate green hospitals and work toward environmental sustainability. The authors critically approach the topic from the perspectives of nursing, environmental health, psychology, politics, international health, economics, and ethics. Specifically, the article addresses the critical role of the professional nurse as a leader in the creation of environmentally friendly and holistic clinical practice. According to the World Health Organization, close to one fourth of the diseases experienced by the worlds population can be attributed to environmental exposures.( Wilburn S. Overview and summary: environmental health: important choices for a greener world. Online J Issues Nurs [serial online]. 2007;12(2). http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ANAMarketplace/ANAPeriodicals/OJIN?TableofContents/Volume122007/May31/EnvironmentalHealthImportantChoicesforaGreenerWorld.aspx ) The healthcare industry contributes to this by producing more than 2.4 million tons of waste each year and is one of the largest consumers of energy in many communities.2(Sattler B, Hall K. Healthy choices: transforming our hospitals into environmentally healthy and safe places. Online J Issues Nurse [serial online]. 2007;12(2). http://journal.medscape.com/mjm Hospital waste and energy consumption affect the health of the environment and, consequently, the health of each human being within the environment. While hospitals have the responsibility to treat the sick within their walls, they are also responsible to make sure their walls, their environmental practices, promote the health of clients, staff, and the environment. The duty of maintaining an environmentally friendly hospital is shared among numerous stakeholders within the organization. Nurses, having a holistic viewpoint, responsibility to serve the public, and strong desire to care, have a duty and, importantly, the opportunity to make the hospital an environmentally sustainable environment. On the basis of the holistic perspective of nursing, this article examines how environmental, psychological, ethical, political, and international health issues directly affect hospital efforts to go green. The article provides specific ideas for how nurses can become vanguards for hospital greening initiatives, in both hospital and community settings. Assess the actions that need to be taken by organisations to maintain the environment. One of the greatest psychological barriers for hospitals to consider when going green is the myth that creating healthy buildings costs more money.5 According to H2E,21 the accounting processes of a majority of hospitals focus on the up-front costs of what it would take to go green and disregard the essential life cycle costs of green products. Laustsen3 describes the life cycle cost as the cost benefit of a product over the span of its life. He and other specialists agree that while improving current hospital systems will initially require additional funding, after a few years, the additional amount spent is returned via energy and time-savings and increased product longevity.3 The EPA notes that every dollar a nonprofit healthcare organization saves on energy is equivalent to generating $20 in new revenues for hospitals or $10 for medical offices.22 Two specific methods exist for a hospital organization to introduce both green products and cost savings to the hospital. Environmentally preferable purchasing (EPP) is defined by H2E as choosing those products and services whose environmental impacts are preferable to those of others.23 The EPP involves considering the amount of packaging per product, whether or not the product is single use, and the extent to which the product is made from recycled materials. The Energy Star for Healthcare program exists as a wonderful resource for obtaining EPP products and information, and numerous state organizations sponsor energy-efficient programs that partner with Energy Star for Healthcare. H2E can help hospitals perform EPP through their portfolio planner, available on the organizations Web site. CleanMed conferences provide any easy, hands-on method for hospitals to know how much they will spend and what EPP products they will receive. Along with EPP, the H2E also promotes pay-as-you-thro w contracts for waste management. In these contracts, hospitals are charged on the basis of the actual amount of waste disposed. Pay-as-you-throw contracts entice hospitals to reduce solid waste, which consequently decreases disposal costs.24 These contracts also easily allow hospitals to track exactly how much waste they produce and dispose of, which provides necessary data for greening program evaluations (see Table 2). Hospitals worldwide face dilemmas in the process of becoming environmentally sustainable, and evidence suggests that developing nations experience more obstacles in this area. One of the most influential obstacles is the lack of hospital infrastructure to control waste disposal. In Gaza, limited administrative responsibilities toward environmental and public health are attributed to deficient organizational structures in managing hospital waste.26 This phenomenon is similar to the lack of hospital environmental health enforcement personnel.6 Yet, unlike the United States, national policies and guidelines regarding medical waste management and standardized disposal methods are often scant in many countries.27 Even when government regulations are in place, it may be difficult for low-income countries to enforce them because there is little public pressure to do so.28,29 Also, hospitals in developing countries often lack proper supplies, personal protective equipment, and appropriate re fuse collection services and storage facilities.26,29 Lack of equipment contributes to pollution and undoubtedly predisposes hospital staff to contracting various pathogens, creating a public health concern. Patil and Pokhrel30 explain that, in India and other developing countries, lack of environmental awareness and insufficient appreciation among staff make waste management initiatives difficult to implement. The authors also acknowledge that the bedside nurse is responsible for the initial segregation, disposal, and storage of hospital waste and thus possesses a crucial position in minimizing environmental harm. In Indonesia, awareness among staff, including the experienced nurses, may be low for several reasons: unwillingness to participate, minimal motivation, and improper training and education regarding waste disposal.28 Reasons for poor medical waste management in Dhaka City, Bangladesh, can be attributed to a lack of awareness, dearth of appropriate policy and laws, and apathy.29 In Iran and Tanzania, the staffs unwillingness to participate, lack of motivation, and deficient training and education about green initiatives were reasons why waste management programs did not succeed .28 Researchers and environmental activists believe that resolution of these issues is possible. Activists believe that a key step in doing so is to raise hospital staff awareness because, as Chaerul et al state, the performance of the waste segregation process depends on the knowledge of the hospitals staff at the points of generation.28. If nurses are to be accountable for waste disposal, it is imperative that they understand the waste life cycle, no matter where they are. When environmental awareness in developing countries is established, strong environmental controls and legislative policy are more likely to be enacted and higher standards regarded when considering the disposal of waste.31 Once government and hospital policies are introduced, refuse management projects can be categorized as such: source reduction, solid waste recycling and reuse, solid waste treatment, and solid waste incineration and disposal, according to Karamouz et al.32 Within these categories are the concepts of color-coded bins for different types of wastes and the implementation of multiuse, sterilized supplies.27,29,30 By joining the environmental sustainability bandwagon, US hospitals can hopefully become trendsetters for other countries to follow. Specify the measures that exist to improve workplace health and safety practices The ethical duty of a nurse to promote environmental health is one that persists not only in the hospital working environment but also in the community and world at large. As Dinkins and Sorrell13 note, this duty can take shape through educating patients and staff, performing research, and joining environmental health advocacy groups. Whether in the hospital or community, nurses can use the nursing process in education and policy efforts to promote going green. Perhaps the most integral and basic education method for nurses is self-education, including continuing education. Environmental health nurse Ballard33 strongly encourages continuing education workshops on environmental health in the hospital setting. Nurses need to strongly advocate for required continuing education that includes basic information on environmental sustainability in the healthcare workplace. Basic information should address the environmental impact of hospitals, safe pharmaceutical disposal, PVC materials, recycling and energy conservation efforts, and those hospital committees that affect change. At the preventive level, nurses can advocate for this education to occur as part of new staff orientation and serially, with annual updates. Nurses and nurse educators could utilize the resources provided by the H2E, such as educational teleconferences, the technical assistance hotline, and the online waste priority planner, to enhance educational sessions. As more nurses gain environmental health awareness, the shift must be from not only educating ones self but also transferring this knowledge to allied healthcare staff. Nurses retain the duty of working with top hospital officials and key hospital stakeholders to improve the hospitals environmental impact and create positive change. Nurses can use current literature to advocate for the environmental health, economic, political, and ethical incentives of going green. Sattler and Hall2 encourage nurses to demonstrate how going green remains a goal of The Joint Commission, the EPA, and the Institute of Medicine. As holistic practitioners, nurses must remain aware of the psychological phenomenon of unfreezing, moving, and refreezing in the change process. They must be prepared to educate staff about new greening practices and ways to become involved in these practices. As units introduce new, green products, environmentally aware nurses can provide needed education about their use and be nefit. In addition to advocating for integral environmental health education within the hospital, inpatient nurses can advocate for increased education in the community. Specifically, nurses can petition to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to promote environmental health education as part of the core curriculum in nursing programs throughout the United States. Nurses could provide evidence that early education can prevent environmental health violations and introduce a passion for environmental health among the future nurses of America. The concepts of going green could be incorporated into all levels of nursing curricula, both in teaching and in practice, to promote increased environmental awareness. One such highly successful college-based environmental health program exists at the University of Maryland and has produced numerous environmental health nurse leaders and hospital-based greening programs.34 By writing petitions to state nursing boards, nurses can hopefully rece ive funding for continuing environmental health education. The H2E Web site provides a plethora of educational material to assist in implementing successful educational programs. ( Word count :1677 ) Question 3 As a health care worker with managerial experience, you have been appointed as the most suitable candidate for for the post of health advisor, by a pharmaceutical company in Mumbai, India, that scources clinical trial contracts from abroad, especially the United States of America and western Europe. Because of its international operations, the work force of the company is also varied with employees from various countries around the world. As a manager, you are not only responsible for managing a section of the workforce; you are also responsible for the health and safety issues of the companys workforce. Analyze the responsibilities of organizations in improving work place health and safety. All organizations employing five or more people must have a written Health and Safety Policy statement. The policy should cover all aspects of the organization and be relevant to all employees. A Health and Safety Policy demonstrates how seriously an organization takes its health and safety responsibilities. A good policy will show how the organization protects those who could be affected by its activities. The policy should be of an appropriate length and relevance to the activities and size of the organization. The occupational health nurses traditional role of evaluating occupational hazards is uniquely difficult in the pharmaceutical industry due to the continuous discovery of new compounds. Awareness of new chemicals and knowledge about their hazards are essential. The authors address these specific challenges as well as nurses changing roles in industry. Pharmaceutical employers have a vested interest in maintaining worker health safety. Because their products are intimately tied to the health care community, employers in this industry need to excel in worker safety and the systems that ensure worker and environmental protection. The benefits are clear. Employees who believe that their employer cares for their health safety and the environment are more likely to be a positive advocate for the company and its products. As in any manufacturing setting, worker health and safety is enhanced by engaging employees in solutions to workplace health safety issues, proactive management response, and reasoned infrastructure investments. A well-designed, comprehensive Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) program can also help address community concerns that can develop from pharmaceutical industry activities. Exponent is well versed in the dynamics of health safety within industry and specifically the dynamics unique to the pharmaceutical industry; both in the US and internationally. For example, consulting personnel have directed EHS organizations within the Pharma industry, participated at both State and National levels setting occupation exposure limits, performed epidemiological and risk assessment studies on pharmaceuticals, assessed facilities for the causation of exposures and contamination, and participated in the design of new facilities. Further, Exponent can directly support employers with: a.) Pre-exposure third party risk assessments of facilities, system audits, and efficacy of EHS management systems and practices; b.) Product containment and facility alarm systems; c.) Post exposure root cause analysis, containment, decontamination, and clearance; d.) Change management in the Pharma workplace; e.) Education, communication, and assessment of community concerns regarding env ironmental impacts and worker health and safety issues; f.) Long-term epidemiological studies; g.) Management, toxicological assessment, and review of new compounds and intermediates. From RD, to manufacturing, pharmaceutical management should expect their EHS program to maintain employee and community exposures as low as reasonably achievable and reap the benefits of improved employee morale, positive community and media perceptions, and minimization of the costs associated with unexpected events. Review approaches to the management of diversity in healthcare settings. Diversity management programs combine Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action with internal organizational initiatives such as diversity sensitivity training. These diversity management policies and initiatives may be interpreted and enacted in various ways. This exploratory study was designed to investigate how managers interpreted the meaning of diversity management and enacted EEO/AA laws and diversity initiatives in a hospital in the process of evaluating its diversity programming. Using a grounded theory approach, in-depth interviews with clinical and non-clinical managers were conducted. Several themes emerged, including professional differences in the legal and social understanding of diversity, the nature of managerial uncertainty, and the significance of formal and informal resources when managing diversity. Compare organizational approaches to ensuring positive policies of work place diversity. Looks at the relationship between changes in the business world and managing diversity. Suggests the adoption of a balanced scorecard approach, to integrate diversity into business strategy and operational activities. The report examines the theory and practice, to conclude that good diversity management does indeed add value. But it is not a quick-fix organizations have to invest time and effort. There are warnings against paying lip-service to diversity especially ignoring the organizational contexts and circumstances in making progress on diversity issues. Employers can be active, proactive or reactive in relation to how they deal with diversity. Proactive employers make forward-looking decisions to employ diverse groups for reasons of business advantage. Active employers seek to engage in best practice when faced with the issue; while reactive employers seek to comply with the provisions of the law. Legislation on anti-discrimination specifies the grounds upon which discrimination is banned. These grounds vary from country to country, but they typically include gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation and religion. Diversity management programmes may focus on any of these issues but even in the case where legislation is a driver, it is rare to find programmes that focus on all of them. National and EU level definitions of the areas to be covered by diversity emphasize the range of issues that are covered by the legislation. This comprehensive listing of issues reflects a broad concept of diversity that is apparently not reflected in the kinds of concepts used by companies in their diversity management programmes. In companies, DM tends to deal with one or two issues simultaneously (e.g. nationality, ethnicity), even though companies may have relevant programmes in other areas (e.g. older workers, disabled people). The concept (or perhaps the organisation) of DM used by companies is more limited than that implied by legislation. Approaches to diversity management vary. Companies develop DM programmes for a range of reasons. Some companies are active in their approach, i.e. they tend to introduce DM in order to comply with legislation. Others are reactive they introduce DM programmes in response to circumstance, e.g. when job applicants come from different ethnic backgrounds. Other companies are more proactive, i.e. they seek to take business advantage of the opportunities offered by a diverse workforce. Role of legislation is complex. Legislation in the area appears to play a complex role in promoting diversity management programmes. In the public sector, legislation is more likely to act as a major driver, while in the private sector, companies may have other drivers operating, though compliance with legislation appears to be a useful additional benefit of DM programmes. Depth of diversity management varies. Many DM programmes operate primarily through recruitment practices. There is a

Mussolini Essay -- essays research papers

Benito Mussolini Like his father, Benito became a burning socialist. Mussolini had huge goals of running a political machine based on his own beliefs. Born in the poverty-stricken village of Romagna, Italy, he was wild, nomadic, and defiant as a young adult lived the life of a bum. Showing fierce aggression at such a young age, he was expelled from two schools for knife-assaults on other students. His father a village blacksmith and his mother a schoolmistress, he lived life in poverty that seemed inscapable. By moving from Italy to Austria he devoted himself to the battle for human and economic freedom. Mussolini had become an impassioned Socialist. He had been appointed secretary to the Socialists of the Chamber of Labor in Trent, Austria. He also headed a weekly newspaper that was a major Socialist channel in Trent. Practicing journalism, in which he had always thought as his first passion. This gave Mussolini an opportuninty to establish a name in the Socialist Party and with the people in general. He wrote articles that would get the people's blood racing on church issues. One thing Benito Mussolini was not afraid of was the rage of other men. For these articles he spent time in prison and was then deported back to Italy. In Italy he persisted and gave public speeches, the people loved his ideas. He became one of Italy's most intelligent and menacing young Socialist. In November 1914 he published, Il Popolo d'Italia, and the prowar group Fasci d'Azione Rivoluzi...

Ralph Waldo Emerson and Paolo Freires Visions of Traditional Methods o

Ralph Waldo Emerson and Paolo Freire's Visions of Traditional Methods of Education Paulo Freire and Ralph Waldo Emerson share a similar vision in regards to traditional methods of education. A main common view is that both writers feel that the current education system in most places does not allow for people to reach their full capacity. Freire and Emerson share many other ideas regarding education such as their view of practice and theory and of free thinking. Their works are among the most thought-evoking. In ?The American Scholar? Emerson places a strong emphasis on the role of books in education and their usage of conveying ideas. He states that, ?Books are the best things, well used; abused, among the worst? (p. 297). This refers to his thought that the idea behind books is indeed a well thought out one. However, aside from the possible misuse of books, there are certain tasks that a book can not accomplish. Many are relevant only for a period of time, after which they become obsolete and new books are required. This is one of the reasons that Emerson feels that books alone can not provide a concrete education. They must be supplemented with additional studies, or, according to Emerson, book studies should be combined with experiences and applied to life. To read for the sake of knowing information is pointless; instead, man should read with the intent to apply newly obtained knowledge to his life. Man should read with a dissecting eye, and pick apart the prose, keeping what is relevant and discarding what is babble. This captures the true purpose of books. Paralleling Emerson?s view of books is Freire?s idea of theory and praxis. Man can learn all there is to know about a ... ...that they in fact have nothing to present. Emerson and Freire see eye to eye on many issues regarding the education of man. The main concept that they share is a belief that man should think freely. All other ideas stated by Freire and Emerson are strictly extensions of this point. The educational vision of Emerson and Freire is for man to learn in a society free of preconceptions, where all men?s ideas are valued and where knowledge is ascertained for the use of practice not just as an end in itself. Bibliography: Emerson, Ralph W. "The American Scholar." 1837. The Heath Anthology of American Literature. Ed. Paul Lauter, et al. 3rd ed. Vol. 1. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1998. 1609-1621. Freire, Paolo. "The Banking Concept of Education." Ways of Reading. Ed. David Bartholomae and Anthony Petrosky. 4th ed. Boston: Bedford Books, 1996. 212-27.

Gender Representations in Pride and Prejudice

08 Fall 08 Fall â€Å"Discuss the ways in which gender has been represented in the text† The traditional English gentleman is typically seen as a strong symbol of masculinity and elegance, it’s hard to not fall for their charm with the English female being the submissive housewife with utter beauty, but never her own opinion. In Pride and Prejudice written by Jane Austen, this is certainly not the case.First published in 1813, the story is about the romance between the young heroine Elizabeth Bennet, the prejudiced middle class daughter and the proud, wealthy eligible bachelor Fitzwilliam Darcy as they both overcome their judgements and fall in love. Though English gentlemen were viewed as the stronger race with a high regard within society and strong social graces and husbands the head of the family with the final decision, the main male characters in the novel are portrayed as the challenges these characteristics.Austen uses the novel’s strong female protagonis t, Elizabeth Bennet to challenge to idea of women of that era being weak and passive, whereas the eligible bachelor of the town, Fitzwilliam Darcy, lacks in the social expectations as he is portrayed as juvenile, especially when it comes to love and courtship. Mr Bennet, the father of the strong female heroine, is portrayed as withdrawn and passive compared to the erratic personality of his wife, Mrs Bennet.Through characterisation, Austen intelligently challenges the traditional masculine and feminine roles of the Regency Era. The novel was first submitted for publication in November 1719 under the alternative title First Impressions between October 1796 and August 1797. During this time, the aftermath of the French Revolution was a time of intense ethical debate about revolutionary ideas and change about politics and sex equality. Austen’s novel does not comment on the events of war in her time, but rather on the imminent change of ethics with regards to gender equality.Equ ality between men and women in that era was fairly non-existent as women were deemed the weaker race as a woman was expected to remain passive throughout her life, marrying early and supporting her husband when need be, bearing children and living a rewarding social life. Men, however, being the head of the family and the husbands having superiority within marriage, were deemed fit to defend their country and have high regard within society with strong social graces and a hardworking attitude in the home.Young women in the Regency period were traditionally seen as property of their fathers, and when married off, they were then deemed the possession of their husband and forever loyal to the men in their lives. The feisty heroine of Elizabeth Bennet challenges this expectation by being maintaining her independence in a time of feminine weakness being told â€Å"you speak your opinion very decidedly for a woman of your age. † In her first marriage proposal from the odd Mr Collin s, Elizabeth maintains her strength as rather than marrying for wealth, she refuses his proposal.Ignoring the expectations of her family, as well as society, Elizabeth maintains her hope in marrying for love in saying â€Å"do you not consider me now as an elegant female intending to plague you, but as a rational creature speaking the truth from her heart† as she implores Mr Collins to understand her motives in maintaining her independence, as she refuses to apologise for what she wants thus showing her strength and challenging the idea of women being submissive with the society.Similarly, when Elizabeth journeys across the countryside to Netherfield to tend to her ill sister, Jane, as she does so with the bravado and independence not quite readily present within the upper class society. Though others were unimpressed by Elizabeth’s independent behaviour, Darcy was quite impressed by her audacity as he says the â€Å"brilliancy which exercise had given to her complexi on† as it gives women readers of that era an example of how women can be independent and not have to conform to the society’s expectations, that they can rise above and become more than just the property of man.In the Regency period, upper-class men were deemed the epitome of social grace and confidence. With a facade of social standing, Fitzwilliam Darcy challenges this social stereotype. Though seemingly confident in himself, Darcy’s pride gets the better of him as he is characterised as immature for a man of his time. When discussing his past with Elizabeth, Darcy blames his parents for his lack of social skills as they â€Å"allowed, encouraged and almost taught† him to be â€Å"selfish and overbearing. This shows Darcy’s willingness to fault his parents for his lack of confidence, and for a man of his time is slightly childish. At the first ball he attends, Darcy’s snobbish behaviour is seen as immature as he blatantly insults Elizabeth Bennet, to whom he first met. To his friend’s, Mr Bingley, suggestion of dancing with Elizabeth, Darcy replies â€Å"She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me† revealing him as a prejudiced man that is too proud to dance with that of the lower class portraying the upper class man as snobbish and conceited.The character of Darcy contrasts with the gentlemanly figure that has the upmost social graces within society, his awkward nature created by Austen shows the weaker side of man. Born into a reasonably wealthy family, Mr Bennet, though meant to be the head of the household, is characterised as passive and reluctant to be involved in his family’s schemes. Described as ‘so odd a mixture of quick parts, sarcastic humour, reserve and caprice’ Mr Bennet does not epitomise the society’s expectations of the fatherly figure.During conversations with his family, particularly his wife, Mr Bennet would rather withdraw from the dispute to hi s drawing room or submissively obey to the commands of his wife, especially in the opening of the novel. By marrying his wife based on looks alone, Mr Bennet believes that the â€Å"respect, esteem, and confidence had vanished for ever; and all his views of domestic happiness were overthrown† challenging the idea that husbands had the final say in the relationship, and that marrying based on looks was appreciated within the society.In the opening, preoccupied by the newly arrived bachelor Mr Bingley, Mrs Bennet has many ideas and demands her husband take part for then he replies â€Å"depend upon it, my dear, that when there are twenty, I will visit them all† showing his willingness to make her happy rather than society’s expectation of the woman keeping the man pleased. In a society preoccupied with the importance of marriage, Mr Bennet defends his daughter’s decision in rejecting Mr Collins proposal, telling her â€Å"Your mother will never see you aga in if you do not marry Mr Collins †¦ nd I will never see you again if you do† showing his unwillingness to conform to the society’s expectations of women marrying for wealth rather than love. The wife in the Regency period was seen as the exact opposite of the husband, a weak passive woman who did mainly domestic work and cared for her family whilst obeying her husband’s orders. Mrs Bennet, however, certainly does not conform to these traditional roles. Described as a woman of â€Å"mean understanding, little information and uncertain temper†, Mrs Bennet is Austen’s comment on the equality of marriage.In the opening of the text, the reader is shown the erratic and overpowering personality of Mrs Bennet in contrast to the passive nature of her husband. Concentrated on marrying her daughters off to a suitable bachelor, Mrs Bennet overpowers the opinion of her husband in ordering him that â€Å"you must go, for it would be impossible for us to vi sit him, if you do not† showing her as domineering towards her husband portraying the wife figure in the novel to be more powerful compared to the husband.The use of the ‘ultimatum’ type deal from wife to husband, as this is at the beginning of the novel, foreshadows the theme of female authority throughout the text and in a time of oppression within a relationship as Mrs Bennet challenges the traditional role of the Regency era’s housewife. Through Austen’s use of clever characterisation, she defies the traditional masculine and feminine roles of the Regency Era.The challenging of the society’s values gave an alternative view of life for those living in the era. Though not portraying men in a good light, the novel’s feminist ideas gave women empowerment to speak up for their own beliefs and independence. Through strong characters such as Elizabeth and Mrs Bennet, women were given heroines to aspire to, and through the use of the submis sive male characters of Mr Bennet and Darcy the strength of the women contrasts against the weakness of the male characters.Jane Austen’s comments on gender equality was a powerful motion in her era, and still affect readers now in today’s modern society. Bibliography Ashley Gardner, â€Å"The Regency Era†, 2005, viewed on the 5th May http://www. gardnermysteries. com/index-regency. html Heat and Dust, â€Å"Gender Roles in the Victorian Times,† April 7, 2008, viewed 7th May, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, first published 1813, published in Penguin Classics 1996, updated Further Reading and 1972 Penguin Classics Introduction by Tony Tanner 2003. The Republic of Pemberly, Jane Austen Information, 2004, viewed on the 10th May, Scribd, Pride and Prejudice Class and Gender, 2012, viewed on the 9th May,