African American Important Historical Figures

Christianity And Buddhism Vs. Buddhism - 948 Words

Many, especially in New Mexico, are familiar with the teaching and conditions of Christianity, beginning the creation of the Heaven and Earth, and coming to an end with the death of Jesus, these teachings are taught weekly through Mass. Buddhism is not a commonly know, again, especially in New Mexico. Buddhism teaches on a more personal level, leaving more supernatural beings to Christianity. However, there are similarities to be discussed. Some include, the decisions as to what is right and what is wrong, also both religions seem to form a coherent idea as to what actions are appropriate for wrong doing. Christianity and Buddhism are mostly similar because there seem to be an agreement on what restricts an individual to reach an enlightened phase of life, each religion also asks followers to live a life based on doctrines believed to lead to a promised afterlife, finally, bother religions speak of this promised afterlife to be an otherworldly experience if all ways of life are truly good. Any laws set by both religions are meant to be followed, if broken, it may mean termination from consideration to an eternal afterlife or nirvana. Both religions show similar laws, which they consider to be unbreakable. Christians are asked to life a perfect life in the eyes of God, an imperfect life is one filled with lie, repealing words, acts of adultery, and many more (Bilhartz 530-531). Christianity does not make it a challenge for believers to find what actions go against the wordShow MoreRelatedBuddhism : Buddhism Vs. Christianity1247 Words   |  5 PagesRUNNING HEAD: Journey 3 Buddhism vs. Christianity Brianna M. Stutheit George Fox University We can define rituals as repeated actions that provides us with meaning and significance. Symbols are a small unit of a ritual. Both rituals and symbols play an active role in religion. According to Clifford Geertz, religion can be defined as â€Å"a system of symbols which acts to establish powerful, pervasive and long lasting moods and motivations in both men and women by formulating conceptions of generalRead MoreChristianity vs. Buddhism1258 Words   |  6 PagesGabriel Tajimaroa Donavan Ingram Eng 1A April 3 2010 Research Essay Christianity vs. Buddhism There are many religions and sacred texts that have shaped complete civilizations and cultures. They have varied in their theories of creation and how man should live and act towards each other and nature. The more I study religions and sacred text the more I see that for the most part they are alike. Most of them share a view of love and peace towards all things living. What varies between themRead MoreChristianity vs Buddhism923 Words   |  4 Pagestruths,† said by Muhammad Ali. Religion is the belief and reverence for a supernatural power and powers regarded as creator and governor of the universe (2003). The religions I’ve chose to compare and contrast would be non denomination/ Christianity and Buddhism. Each religion would be broken down by their religious belief, religious ritual, and religious experience. The definition of these religious things are: religious belief is a statement to which members of a particular religion adhere, religiousRead MoreThe Disting uishment Of Religions : Christianity Vs. Buddhism1389 Words   |  6 Pages The Distinguishment of Religions: Christianity vs. Buddhism It is evident that religion is considerably a controversial topic across the globe that seems to bring up futile disputes between people. From the many religious extremist groups that have been the world, such as the Crusaders, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS), Al Qaeda, the Bodu Bala Sena (BBS); it is apparent that this certain topic evokes controversial views from enthusiasts. So why is this topic so controversialRead MoreBuddhism Vs Christianity Essay example1051 Words   |  5 Pagesdifferences between the Abrahamic religion, Christianity, and the Asian region Buddhism as well as making reference to the Islamic religion. It is the beliefs or ideologies as well as the traditions which separate and help us differentiate between religions. The main concept of Christianity is that God the Father sent his son Jesus as man to save mankind and open the gates of Heaven on earth. Thy kingdom come thy will be done Ââ€" Lords Prayer. Buddhism is based on the individuals effort, the ideaRead MoreBarrows Vs. Shaku And Dharmapal An Argumentative Analysis1469 Words   |  6 PagesBarrows vs. Shaku and Dharmapala: an argumentative analysis John Henry Barrows and Soyen Shaku represent more than just two religious luminaries having a good-hearted debate. Their deliberation at the late 19th century Parliament of Religions represents the East versus the West, modernity versus tradition and rhetoric versus logic. It’s difficult to take a side on which religion is superior indefinitely because Barrow’s full argument is not in the passage and Shaku is helped a little by AngarikaRead MoreThe Conflict Of War And Peace1614 Words   |  7 Pagesmessage across it to use violence and others might want total power, in order to get this they must use violence. An example of someone who wanted total power was Hitler. Others might be able to get their message across using peace. Comparison -war vs Pacifism War is a big destruction on peoples lives, as many will die from it and only few will survive, but those who do survive will have to live the rest of their days remembering the pain and loss they were put through. But war in not all bad asRead MoreThe Religion Of Islam And Islam1544 Words   |  7 Pagestime, the view of religion is changing, certainly, all religions are different in many aspects, but respect the opposing religious groups. Examples of these religions are Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity that originated from different regions and cultures. While Buddhism comes from a different background, Islam and Christianity come from the same source, and have spread in similar ways throughout history, however, the three religions have differences in their philosophies and practices. These threeRead MoreEvaluate the Changes and Continuities in the Role of Religion in Chinese Society from 600 to 1450.1043 Words   |  5 Pagescertain religions while repressing others. While Buddhism flourished during the Sui and Tang dynasty, it faced opposition from the government during the Song dynasty. Confucianism lost government endorsement during the Sui and Tang but gained momentum during the Song as Neo-Confucianism. Yuan dynasty promoted Islam and Tibet Buddhism but ignored Confucianism. Different rulers sponsored and protected different religions but Confucianism and some form of Buddhism have always been alive in Chinese societyRead MoreUnderstanding The Distributions Of Religions942 Words   |  4 PagesAtheism is the belief that there is no God and Agnosticism is the belief that the fact that there is a God or no God cannot be proven. Christianity is a universalizing religion. It is the dominant religion in North America, South America, Europe, and Australia. Countries with a Christian majority exist in Africa and Asia as well. There are three major branches of Christianity–Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Orthodoxy. In Europe, Roman Catholicism is the dominant branch in the southwest and east, Protestantism

can free trade and environmental protection coexis Essay Example For Students

can free trade and environmental protection coexis Essay t? can free trade and environmental protection coexis Essayt? An important issue in the international relations of the twentieth century involves whether or not free trade and environmental protection can coexist. The goal of a free trade economy is to increase the global economy, while environmental protectors try to find ways of reversing some of the negative effects that humans have inflicted upon the earth. Because of the increasing popularity of this green movement, many political leaders are trying to find ways to make the two drastically different ideas incorporated into one. However, there is no real compromise between the two. Effective policies can not advocate to protect only certain speciesits all or nothing. The same is true for free trade. Many people have the perception that free trade and environmental protection are so drastically different that it is not possible for the two to coincide. Some people find both of these issues to be the cause of all our most pressing global, environmental, mental, human health, and democratic problems. Critics of the free trade agreement argue that free trade pretends to be value free, yet is fundamentally value driven (Goldsmith, 219). Because of its significant source of national revenue, trade has been synonymous with states political goals since the early inhabitants of the earth first realized how to transport goods over long distances. At first, this early trading system was simply a way of enriching ones personal fortune, yet it soon became an easy way for countries to gain money and power. Intellectual arguments in support of free trade began in the late nineteenth century, but the political drive promoting this global trade approach did not become a reality until the 1940safter the Second World War and the United States Great Depression. This explosion of international trade occurred at this time because countries were then seeking ways of rebuilding their own (and the global) economy. This concept seemed like a highly logical way to improve the economy for all nations because it called for the release of high tariffs. A slowed economy (due to global inflation and high petroleum prices) is another reason why the popularity of free trade increased after the second World War (Augley, 27). The popularity of this policy has continued until now partly because third world countries acknowledge the way of life that industrialized nations have, and wish to have the same. Also, much of the public favors this plan because they do not want to see many people malnourished and living in poverty. However, many people do not realize that we have now created the way of life which cannot be had by everyone due to the enormous amount of energy which it requires. For example, it would be impossible for all humans to own and operate cars because there are no longer enough natural resources to provide the energy necessary for this commodity. Free trade has an underlying basis of individual liberty, and implies two symbolic freedoms (Audley, 21). The first being a cost-less solution to expanding the human scale, meaning that it is a method to improve the way of human life for the whole world, while costing nothing. This also means that free trade tries to enable many third world countries to become great and more advanced, like the well-off, industrialized nations. Environmentalists disagree with this because they believe that free trade does have a cost involved with it, that being the quality of life on earth. Studies have proven that currently, we are running out of fossil fuels. In fact, if we continue to consume them at the current rate, we will completely run out of all known reserves (for most major fossil fuels) in about than three hundred years. An example of degradation of the environment for the betterment of economy has occurred recently in Taiwan and South Korea. These two countries have achieved stunning rates of economic growth, and the World Bank views them as role models for other lesser developed nations because of their success. However, the bank neglects to take into account the damage that both Taiwan and South Korea have inflicted upon their land. In the case of Taiwan, forests have been cleared for industrial and residential .

Liberty Adam Smith And Alexis De Tocqueville Both Adam Smith And Alex

Liberty: Adam Smith and Alexis de Tocqueville Both Adam Smith and Alexis de Tocqueville agree that an individual is the most qualified to make decisions affecting the sphere of the individual as long as those decisions do not violate the law of justice. >From this starting point, each theorist proposes a role of government and comments on human nature and civil society. Smith focuses on economic liberty and the ways in which government can repress this liberty, to the detriment of society. De Tocqueville emphasizes political liberty and the way that government can be organized to promote political liberty, protect individual liberty, and promote civil liberty. Adam Smith's theory makes a strong argument for the assertion that a free market will provide overall good for society, but, as de Tocqueville points out, it provides little or no protection for the poor. Smith's picture of human nature given in The Theory of Moral Sentiments suggests that people would do good and take care of the weak because of characteristics of their nature. Unfortunately, this image contrasts with the picture of the individual which emerges from his economic argument in Wealth of Nations and is a generally unsatisfying answer. In attempting to define liberty, Adam Smith is mostly concerned with negative liberty, or freedom from constraint, especially market constraints. According to him, in a free market, as long as they are not fettered by government regulation, actions are guided toward the public good as if by an invisible hand. Furthermore, the economic sphere is the determining section of society. Therefore from his economic model, he derives his argument for the best role of government and asserts that the resultant society will be the best overall for civilization. Since he defines the individual as sovereign (within the laws of justice), and he defines liberty as freedom from constraint, his argument begins with the individual, defining a man's labor as the foundation of all other property. From this it follows that the disposition of one's labor, without harm to others, is an inviolable right which the government should not restrict in any way (Smith 215). He uses his economic theory to support his belief that this limitation on government action creates the most overall good for society. First, he defines all prices as being determined by labor (Smith 175). Since labor causes raw materials to have value, Smith asserts that labor confers ownership, but when stock is used there must be something given for the profits of the investors, so labor resolves itself into wages and prices (185). The support for the free market lies in the way the prices are determined and the inner workings of the market. The prices ultimately come from the value of labor. A capitalist will want to produce as much as possible, in order to make the greatest profit, therefore his demand for labor will rise. As the demand for labor rises, wages will rise. As more people begin work ing to meet the increased demand for labor, production will rise, and prices will fall. Following this argument, in a free market, everybody is working for his or her own personal gain, but maximum production occurs, which increases overall wealth and prosperity. If the government interferes by setting minimum wages, charging prohibitive taxes, or regulating prices, it interrupts the natural flow of the market. Therefore, Smith argues that the market prices of wages and of goods should be regulated by the market rather than by the government. Smith then identifies three classes of people who develop from capitalism: laborers, landlords, and capitalists. Each of these groups act purely out of self-interest, and for this reason Smith does not think any of them will be able to effectively rule with the good of society in mind. The laborers are incapable of comprehending "that the interest of the labourer is strictly connected with that of the society..." (Smith 226). The landlords are the most impartial of the classes and therefore the least likely to use government for any plan or project of their own, but they are "too often, not only ignorant, but incapable of that application of mind which is necessary in order to foresee and understand the consequences of any

The Malayan Emergency Counter Insurgency Success

Autism Effect on Children

Autism Effect on Children Introduction Autism is a neurodevelopment condition that lowers several mental capabilities of individuals. Children suffering from autism have reduced social interaction skills and become slow learners.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Autism Effect on Children specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Numerous cases of autism are reported all over the world, but people living with autism have become integrated well into the society due to the scientific advancements in medicine. Children suffering from autism not only get drugs that help to ease their condition, but they also learn how to interact with other people. It suffices to mention that children who have autism get opportunities for education, despite being slow learners (Mastropieri Scruggs, 2010). In some countries, they have special schools that have teachers who are skilled in teaching them. In other countries, the children are not separated from the oth er children in class. In the past, teaching other children together with children suffering from autism was a problem because the children with autism were perceived to be aloof (Scruggs, 2008). However, teachers have taken the initiative to understand autism and draft new and better ways of teaching children with autism. This paper will analyze how autism affects children and their social interactions from an academic point of view. Behaviors of Children with Autism It is crucial to understand the behavior of children with autism in the school set up in order to understand how autism affects children and their social interactions. Scruggs (2008) reveals that children with autism are usually perceived aloof because they do not interact with other children in the classroom.Advertising Looking for research paper on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In many instances, they are alone sitting in a corner and doin g their own things. An interruption or any attempt by other children to indulge in play with the affected child usually ends up in a disaster. Mastropieri and Scruggs (2010) argue that children with autism have a hard time associating with other children due to two main reasons. First, the children know that they are different from the rest. The difference is more pronounced in the older children compared to the younger ones. The second reason children with autism do not interact with other children freely is the fact that their condition gives them limited social interaction skills. Consequently, they do not feel comfortable being around other people. As Scruggs (2008) observes, many of the children with autism do not like to be touched and can get hysterical if it happens. It is also necessary to point out that children with autism do not care about the feelings and reactions of the other students. They rarely imitate the actions and reactions of the other students in the class. R esultantly, they are perceived to be mean and rude to the other students. Imitation of behavior is important in school because it gives children a predictable idea of what to do next (Scruggs, 2008). For example, if a child smiles at another child, it is very normal and expected that the other child will smile back. However, this is rarely the case with a child who has autism because of their limited social skills. In the same vein, such children shy away from such friendly gestures from the other kids. In turn, they lack the form of social interaction that is enjoyed by other children.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Autism Effect on Children specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Poliakova and Palkhivala (2008) also add that children with autism mostly portray some characteristics that push the other children away, making it difficult for them to interact with the other kids. One such behavior is screaming. Scr uggs (2008) observes that children suffering from autism have a tendency to scream whenever they feel scared, mainly because most of them do not like to be touched. Other things that can trigger screaming include impatience and wanting their parents. The screaming is not only ear deafening, but it also scares the other children in the class away. In other words, the other pupils become scared of interacting with the child out of the fear that the child may start screaming. Another behavior exhibited by children with autism is the unwillingness to communicate, which limits their social interaction further. Meadan and Monda-Amaya (2008) argue that there are times when the child will refuse to talk. For instance, the child may refuse to respond to the teacher or fellow students. In the past, many teachers would relish such acts because the child would appear quiet and calm. However, recent studies show that the child feels vulnerable if he exhibits such behavior, which is portrayed in the form of tendency to refuse to talk. Many draw on their books, instead of interacting with the rest because the communication process is too complicated. It further hampers their academic and social development. The lack of proper social interaction makes it difficult for the child with autism to advance in their studies. As they grow up, they refuse to be paired with other children for assignments. They also fail to make friends who can help them with school work or just talk regarding everyday issues that may linger in their minds.Advertising Looking for research paper on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Teachers act as the meeting point between the child who has autism and the other children in the classroom. It is up to the teacher to ensure that the child is comfortable enough to interact with the other kids. Improving the social skills of children with autism is not easy. However, it can be achieved through a series of behavior change models created by the teacher. Teachers’ Interventions As mentioned, teachers are the pivot of the relationship between the children who suffer from autism and the other children in the classroom. All the children, including those who have autism, know and trust the teacher. The child with autism will be more comfortable with a teacher they have known for a long time compared to the students in the class because they are many and may be newer to the child. The first thing a teacher can do to help a child with autism is to encourage the development of social skills. Scruggs (2008) argues that there are teachers who force children with autism to partner with the other kids on school assignments in order to get them to open up. Improving social skills can be achieved using a series of well-defined lessons on the same. For instance, the teacher can take time to help the child learn non-verbal cues. Nonverbal cues are the most important form of communication for a person suffering from autism (Mastropieri Scruggs, 2010). Understanding how space, time, and gestures affect other people can help the individual interact freely with other people. Understanding nonverbal cues can also assist the child when they do not want to talk. The second thing a teacher can do is to create an inclusive educational environment for the child (Santoli et al., 2008). It is true that children with autism have a hard time interacting with other children. It is also true that they cannot be forced to interact with the other children. However, shaping the classes to suit the child will help in keeping them calm enough to interact with the other kid s. If the child likes painting and drawing, then the teacher can first give every child drawing materials and leave them draw. The teacher can then pair the students to analyze and talk about their drawings. At this point, the teacher should pair with the child because they will prove calmer when with the teacher than another child. The child can then slowly start pairing up with the other children. It is crucial for the teacher to use an activity that the child enjoys the process of fitting into the school setting. In the same manner, the teacher can instill patience in the other students. It is easier for children to understand that a person is not feeling well and respect that. The teacher should encourage the other children not to make fun of the child who has autism and not to feel offended whenever the child becomes aloof. The positive reaction that the other kids give may encourage the child to open up. Teachers should also monitor the child and learn their responses (Scruggs , 2008). It is not enough for the teacher to just make sure that the child is feeling okay and calm. Instead, the teacher has to ensure that they monitor the behavior of the child. Monitoring will help the teacher find out some of the things that make the child irritated and aloof. Similarly, monitoring the child’s reaction will show the teacher what the child likes, which can then be incorporated into the class work to make learning easier for the child. Santoli et al. (2008) argue that not all children who have autism are slow learners. However, monitoring can help the teacher be in a position to decide the pace that is required for the child to understand the concepts that are taught in class. Particular attention in the sense of a special teacher should be provided for the students who are extremely slow. However, the teacher has to come up with a teaching model that will suit the pace of the child who has autism if the child is not very slow. Using the example of a child who likes to draw, the teacher can use drawings to teach. The other children will not have a problem using such customized learning activities, given that they have average learning speeds. Conclusion In conclusion, teaching children with autism does not have to be as difficult as it was a decade ago. Many teachers have the skills and tools that allow equip them to help these children fit in a typical class. One of the major things that make it difficult for the child who has autism to form relationships with the classmates is abnormal behavior. For instance, the child may scream and make the other children scared of interacting with the child. Teachers are encouraged to create an inclusive learning environment for the child to solve such problems. The teacher has to monitor the development and reactions of the child who has autism in order to establish a suitable environment. Additionally, the teacher has to draft suitable learning and teaching methods that target the development of social skills of the child who has autism, thereby improving the cognitive development of the child. References Mastropieri, M., Scruggs, T. (2010). The inclusive classroom: Strategies for effective differentiated instruction. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Meadan, H., Monda-Amaya, L. (2008). Collaboration to promote social competence for students with mild disabilities in the general classroom: a structure for providing social support. Intervention in School Clinic, 43(3), 158-167 Poliakova, N., Palkhivala, A. (2008). Social impairment in children with autism spectrum disorder. Canadian Council of Learning, 1(1), 50-51. Santoli, S., Sachs, J., Romey, E., McClurg, S. (2008). A successful formula for middle school inclusion: Collaboration, time, and administrative support. Research in Middle Level Education Online, 32(2), 1-13. Scruggs, A. (2008). Effective reading instruction strategies for students with significant cognitive disabilities. Electronic Journal for Inclusive E ducation, 2(3), 1-11

MSc Managing & Accounting for Financial Resources - Healthy Hearts Essay

MSc Managing & Accounting for Financial Resources - Healthy Hearts Cardiff case description - Essay Example The operating profit or the gross profit provides indication about the actual profit acquired by the business operation. (Berman, Knight, Case, 2006, p.66). The operating profits or the business profits have to be generated from the current assets or the operating assets. The main weakness that the new center has shown that it has somehow failed to utilize its currents assets to gain more operating profit.( â€Å"Year Book Australia, 2001 ) That is the reason why the operating profit as a percentage of sales is also very less. Also the operating profit of the Cardiff unit may be lesser as a percentage due to the fact that this unit has just started its business operation and is not in a position to utilize its asset base to the optimal level. The next key parameter considered is the operating profit by sales ratio. The difference comes to be 2.42. Here the result of the Cardiff unit is slightly less than the entire most profitable club. That means the center is not able to generate adequate amount of business profit or operating profit. It may be due to several reasons but the main factor that can be identified is that this center in particular operates with higher expenses than that of the average centers. Efficiency Ratio: After this ratio, the following few parameters are almost similar when compared to the overall most profitable club performance of Healthy Hearts. The difference between the sales to operating asset ratio is just 0.46, which indicates relatively better sales turnover ratio for the Cardiff unit. But next ratio shows some negativity as well. The expense to sales ratio is more in the case of Cardiff unit by 2.42. This means the unit makes more expenditure to generate the desired amount of sales figure. This is not always an encouraging sign for any business. Huge gap is also being noticed when sales as a percentage of the current assets are compared. The difference comes to around 8.70.

Solar power and alternative energy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Solar power and alternative energy - Essay Example ing of solar energy through concentrated solar power and photovoltaics has been instrumental in producing relatively reliable energy, while maintaining environmental safety. The use of solar panels at some point was tipped to be a next-generation project but the successes so far have been minimal. One major factor that has contributed to this situation is the fact that the installation cost of the solar panels has been expensive most especially for the majority of the average citizens. Secondly, the available installations have not lived to their billings as they have not been sufficient enough. However, solar energy can be made more sufficient but with high costs (Longman et al. 107). Comparatively, other sources of energy are cheap and more efficient than solar energy. This is possibly the reason why so many citizens shy away from incurring the exorbitant expenses of installing solar panels. Besides, its reliability can be severely tested as it depends a lot on the sunshine, which is often never present during winters and other extreme weather conditions (Mathew 141). Despite the bottlenecks, solar energy is environment friendly and can be enhanced through improved initiatives. Citizens should be empowered through campaigns and provisions of incentives. The negatives do not technically outweigh the advantages except for the fact that public perception has been severely deformed by the cost of installation. Besides, the government has done significantly little to make the use of solar energy more profound. There is no need for other sources of energy of solar energy can be maximally utilized (Buie, 570). Longman, Ryan J., Thomas W. Giambelluca, and Michael A. Nullet. "Use of a clear-day solar radiation model to homogenize solar radiation measurements in Hawai‘i." Solar Energy 91 (2013): 102-110. Print. Wald, M.L. Energy, the Environment and the Bottom Line: Using Solar Power to Extract Oil. 2011. Retrieved February 24, 2014, web

Consider the extent to which the theory of exchange rates explain the Essay

Consider the extent to which the theory of exchange rates explain the performance of the US$ in recent years - Essay Example Historically, the most common fixed exchange rate used to be gold standard, until 1850s where, one ounce of gold was taken as worth $20 (U.S dollars) and 4 pounds of sterling, leading to an exchange rate of $5 of every pound. On the other hand, an exchange rate is said to be flexible, variable or floating when two or more countries come into agreement of letting the international market forces govern the rate through the forces of demand and supply. In this case, the rate would vary with a country’s imports and exports. According to Marazzi, Mario & Sheets (2007) majority of the trade economies such as US, Europe, Japan and China takes place with variable and flexible exchange rates that vary within comparatively fixed limits. Therefore, there is a strong relationship between the US dollar rate of exchange and all the major foreign currencies with an exception of those from the developing countries. It should be taken into account that with respect to the US stock market, this correlation is equilibrium with all parties being significant to its sustenance. The key reason for this causal relationship is that every investor view U.S Dollar as a negative beta which should always be falling in value whenever there is an upsurge of the value of stock market and should be increasing in value whenever there is a decrease in value of the stock market. ... Bilateral rates provide the comparison of the rate of exchange of currency of a country with that of another currency of a different country. For instance, one sterling pound can exchange for $1.50. On the other hand, multilateral exchange rate is the worth of a currency compared to more than one currency, unlike bilateral rates that give the comparison of only two countries or nations’ currency. Economists and market analysts determine multi-lateral rates to decipher averagely what is taking place in the exchange rate arena. This is got through the adoption of an index that denotes variations in one currency as compared to a pool of other currencies. In the past few years, the US exchange rate has constantly made the US dollar to fall rapidly against other well-known currencies such as euro-zone currencies with the lowest limit being recorded in 2008. Exchange Rate Policy The exchange rate based on any country’s economy impacts either negatively or positively the aggre gate demand via its effects on imports, exports and the extent at which policy makers can exploit this correlation. Besides, Exchange Rates can be operated as a form of monetary policy for guiding the balance of trade of many nations. In ideal situation, rates should always be held down to stimulate and scale up exports with a view of lessening inflationary pressure rocking a country’s economy. While the Bank of America does not particularly target the exchange rate, the MPC would always focus on the trend of exchange rates. In essence, during times of inflation pressure, the MPC would prefer a comparatively elevated rate given that this would lessen the price of import commodities and services and also will always help in absorbing the

Ethical Impact of Knowledge

Ethical Impact of Knowledge â€Å"The possession of knowledge carries an ethical responsibility.† Evaluate this claim. Mahatma Gandhi, when asked by an adoring, adulating public, what he believed the greatest sins were, was prone to answer as simply and as quickly as possible. His answers varied, of course, depending on his audience, but in his last word to all of India, his autobiography, â€Å"The Story of My Experiments with Truth,† he characterized the greatest sin as â€Å"Knowledge without character.† Gandhi evidently believed that the possession of knowledge without the ability for action was perhaps the greatest sin man could commit. Of course, one must wonder a great number of things about the ethical responsibility that any wielder of knowledge is supposedly subject to. To begin with, the statement strongly implies the existence of an absolute ethical system, leaving no place for ethical relativism, a stance that leaves little room for debate on the varying ethical and moral standards that people of various different labels ascribe to themselves. Moreover, a rather interesting phenomenon that occurs in the academic world today is the existence of the foolish scholar; the man who harbors a veritable cornucopia of knowledge, but has little understanding of the practical aspects thereof, or of the use that other humans might put this knowledge to. The statement necessarily requires that this man be held responsible for any use or abuse of his research and knowledge, a thought that is not merely of obvious naivetà ©, but plainly unjust. What remains however, is the wilful and focused abuse and misuse of knowledge with the complete and total understanding of any ending that this misuse entails; this must, under any ethical system, be punished, but the question that remains is, which ethical system? How can one reconcile the idea of an ethically relativistic system and the demand of a universally absolutist system that the statement puts forth? Perhaps it is key to first reconcile the idea of an absolutist ethical system with the demands of the real world. W.T. Stace was a proponent of the same, arguing that only a single universal code of conduct could exist which was deemed morally correct. Kantian deontological ethics similarly stated that the only good action was the action that, when universalized, would have maximum moral effect, as demonstrated by the categorical imperative. Therefore, under Kantian ethical philosophy, we can state that as long as the principle of Universalizability is adhered to, an absolutist ethical system can exist, for it is then the non-adherents who are fundamentally flawed, and not the system itself, a position taken by Kant as well. Moral relativism cannot be well considered within the structure of the question, for to accept a morally relative system would cause, in itself, major issues within the foundations of ethicality. Moral relativism then leads towards existential nihilism, for to ac cept all ethical systems is akin to accepting none; No fundamental idea of right or wrong can exist, for right and wrong may well differ from individual to individual, and both are therefore abstract concepts with no real meaning or motive. Moral relativism within the scope of the question would render the question pointless, for no ethically relative system can assign ethical responsibility, the definition and nature of which will differ from system to system, person to person, and place to place. In the most idealistic and humanistic sense, perhaps ethical relativism is the only doctrine that can effectively promote universal acceptance, but in a practical, objective manner, ethical absolutism is the only possible form of moral systems which allows for the formation of laws, legal systems, and an ordered manner of living that does not give way to either Nihilism or Anarchy. Therefore, we establish the existence, at least in practicality, of an ethically absolutist system, and designate Kantian ideology, that of Deontological Ethics, as the ethical system to be considered within the scope of the question. Having established the kind of ethical system we are considering, we must now consider, in depth, the system of ethical responsibility itself. Knowledge has been argued to be akin to a tool. The common scythe is possibly the best analogy for the slightly less common tool of knowledge, for, like a scythe, knowledge can be used to either reap or sow crops or to kill and maim a person. The only difference, really, is the scale. Knowledge has long been considered a tool with no moral nature of itself. After all, one hardly blames the gun for going off, or, as in our comparison, commends the scythe for a bountiful harvest. The wielder of the gun and the farmer of the land; these are the men we attribute actions towards, and therefore, they are the ones deemed responsible for the use of their tools. However, with knowledge, and the possession thereof, things aren’t quite as straightforward. â€Å"I am become death, destroyer of worlds,† Robert Oppenheimer cried in anguish when he witnessed the Trinity Atom bomb test; a test he helped design and facilitate. The Natural Sciences are an area that is rife with ethical dilemmas. Consider the case of Oppenheimer himself, a man who helped design and invent the Atom bomb which was responsible for the death of thousands, the eradication of two who cities, and the disfigurement of millions of unborn children. Oppenheimer himself felt directly responsible for the chaos he had helped cause, but the question that arises is simple: Was he responsible for using his knowledge towards its inevitable end goal, and indeed, were any of the other scientists involved in the Manhattan project? Can blame for the Project itself be assigned so easily to the scientists commissioned? Under Kantian Deontological ethics, universalization of the subject leads one to question whether or not Knowledge needs to be shared at all. It is not a simpl e question of knowledge in Nuclear Physics, but of all knowledge, and the answer to this question is plainly positive. Knowledge needs to be shared so we, as humanity, can collectively move forward in a field that has implications around the world, a field which saves lives, improves living and, collectively, causes more good than ill. In the end, while there is a certain ethical responsibility involved with the possession of knowledge, hoarding knowledge and keeping it to oneself if plainly worse than the alternative: Sharing it and putting it to use. Consider, for example, Jonas Salke, the man who invented the Polio vaccine, and understanding the widepsread impact it would have, refused to patent it, essentially making the vaccine free. Under Kantian ethical systems, therefore, the sharing of knowledge is vital towards actual progress: The converse halts progress and forces every scientist to deal with the same bottlenecks and breakthroughs before any real research can take place. History is another AOK with a paramount ethical impact on the present and the future. Accepting, or alternatively, denying the past has consequences that shape the policies and attitudes of entire countries and races. Two comparative cases can be studied here: That of Germany and Turkey. Germany today is nation deeply repentant of its past sins and mistakes. Having accepted their deeds during the rule of the Nazi Party as being not only brutal, but downright horrific, Germany today has swung towards extreme sorrow and repentance, making it by and large illegal to deny the Holocaust and introducing an Amendment to their constitutional free speech which makes the Nazi party illegal. The Germans, a once nationalistic race, have disbanded their army, instead training a national police force. The knowledge of their sins has clearly had a deep and lasting impact on the Germany psyche. The Turks, on the other hand, vehemently deny the very existence of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. Turkish history books not only fail to mention it, but Turkish historians, well respected in other fields, are curiously silent, and often in denial, about the crimes of Turkey’s past. The Turkish government itself refuses to recognize the brutality of its actions against 1.5 million Armenians. Modern day pundits, however, state that there may be good reason for this. An acceptance of Turkish guilt will indubitably lead to civil war due to the extreme denial of Turkish society on the matter, leading to a forced change in the government. While the acceptance of past mistakes may be crucial towards building a bridge towards a better relationship with the Armenians, the acceptance of this past mistake could very well destabilize the Turkish regime permanently, a turn of events with dire results for the Western World were an extremist party, of which there are plenty, to come to powe r. The Turkish government itself cannot make reference to the Genocide, for to do so is possibly akin to sparking off a civil war which could cause the entire region to erupt. The question to be asked, therefore, is whether it is possible to deny past actions and yet live morally, or whether it is absolutely necessary to accept one’s past guilt before once can be absolved of blame. The ethical impact of the genocide is plain to see, but the fact remains that the Turkish government has an ethical responsibility first towards its citizens and then to the rest of the world. To spark of a civil war due to events that took place a century ago may very well be considered unethical and immoral, but yet, to deny outright such egregious events is not a morally sound stance either. In conclusion, the ethical impact of knowledge is certainly vast. To measure this impact is, by and large, impossible, but one can certainly gauge the effect that knowledge once made public would have. While the possession of knowledge always carries with it an ethical responsibility, it is difficult to discern the scope and extent of this responsibility, even in a Kantian ethical system. While knowledge in the natural sciences must almost always be shared, in other AOK’s, such as history, civil and geopolitical issues come into play, which would lead to ethical catastrophes perhaps bigger than those that they try to repair. In the end, the only constant is that knowledge, for better or worse, is a powerful tool that must not be underestimated.

Stonehenge :: essays research papers

Stonehenge   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On the British Isles more than nine hundred stone rings exist. Most people prefer to call them rings rather than circles for the reason that only two percent of them are true circles. The other ninety eight percent of these structures are constructed in an elliptical shape. Stonehenge in itself is roughly circular. Most of these rings cannot be dated exactly, but it is known that they are from the Neolithic period.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In southern England the Neolithic period begins around the time of the first farming communities in 4000 B.C. to the time of the development of bronze technology around 2000 B.C., by that time the construction of major monuments was mostly over. Because of the scarcity of the archaeological record at the stone rings, any attempts to explain the functions of the structures are guesses. Most attempts tend to reflect the cultural relatedness of their times. Most people believe that these rings were constructed by a group of people called Druids.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This idea of Stonehenge being constructed by Druids has become deeply implanted in the uneducated minds of popular culture from tie seventeenth century to the present. It is common knowledge that the druids had nothing to do with these rings. The Druids flourished after about 300 B.C., more than 1500 years after the last stone rings were constructed. Even more, there is no evidence that suggests that the Druids even used these stone rings for ritual purposes. Any Druidic connection with the stone rings is purely hypothetical.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  During the nineteenth and early twentieth century, prehistorians attributed Stonehenge and other stone rings to Egyptian and Mycenean travelers who were thought to have infused Europe and Bronze age culture. With the development of carbon 14 dating methods, the infusion-diffusion of British Neolithic history was abandoned and the megalithic monuments of Britain were shown to predate those in most other countries. While the carbon 14 method provided approximate dates for the stone rings it was no use explaining their function. Research by scholars outside the discipline of archaeology suggested a use different to that of rituals.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the 1950s and 1960s, the Oxford University engineer Alexander Thom and the astronomer Gerald Hawkins pioneered the new field of archaeoastronomy-the study of the astronomies of ancient civilizations. Conducting precise surveys at various stone rings and other megalithic structures, Thom and Hawkins discovered many significant astronomical alignments among the stones. This evidence suggested that the stone rings were used as astronomical observatories. Moreover, the archaeoastronomers revealed the extraordinary mathematical sophistication and engineering abilities that the native British developed before either Egyptian or Mesopotamian cultures.

The Unsolved Murder

English 102 The Unsolved Murders In the novel The Secrets of The Unadilla, by Richard Sullivan, one of the characters name, Pelican Stride, is the most mysterious character in the book whose true sides are revealed as the book unfolds. In the beginning of the novel, Pelican’s true appearance is just a horrible boss who thinks the workers are his own property and for that he treats them with no consideration. As the book develops throughout the last two chapters, Pelican is met for the first time, along the information about him and his background is revealed. Pelican’s secrets are ultimately unveiled at the end of the ook. To Pelican Stride he thinks he played the game pretty well but deep down inside he’s just a pathetic man who has nothing to live for. At the start of the novel, Pelican is seen as a Newspaper owner named, The National Informers, who loves to eat Chinese food and fires his employees whenever he feels like. Pelican is very mysterious because he a lways remains in his office or his house no one ever seen him anywhere else, and is not actually met until the last two chapter of the book. As the book progresses, Pelican is eventually met and information is revealed about his background.Pelican was very rude, careless, and selfish, who thinks everybody but his mother deserved to die because they are just on his way. When Pelican used to live at The Unadilla Apartments building his name was Zaboo. Back then he committed a crime, he pushed a woman name Eleanor Eddowes out of her apartment window because he thought the women was the reason why his uncle made his mother cry so much. So, he made an end at his mother’s sufferance. After more than thirty five years he received a letter from an unknown person but, the letter was for Robert Knight, the reporter he handed the story to and asked to.To Pelican, that was a challenge he knew that knight wasn’t going to be able ou to solve the mystery. Knight now lives in The Unad illa and several people who were around in the 1930s may be suspects. â€Å"As Robert gets close to discovering the truth, he comes even closer to becoming a victim himself. †(http://www. firstonepublishing. com) As Robert Knight investigation begins, he found out that Eleanor Eddowes was push from the apartment window he lives in. He interviewed everyone in the building but no one could tell him what happened that day or who killed Eleanor. Two people he nterviewed got killed, one name Carrie Robeson and the other Alma Finn. He didn’t know the reason they got killed but as the reader I know they got killed because they were the only two tenants who knew what happened and were willing to come forward. After all the murder of Eleanor Eddowes remain unsolved and Robert knight gave up the investigation because it was a dead end. Thereafter, Pelican stride was sitting in his office thinking about what he has done. He was explaining how he killed Eleanor, â€Å"he remember knocking on her door, going inside her apartment, then kicking some of her furniture with his shoe so that he ruin it.He punched her in the chest! Then he pushed her out the window. He kept in mind that it was easy to kill. †(Sullivan, 225) Pelican is a psychopath. When he threw Carrie Robeson down the stairs he said was doing her a favor and he did the same for Alma Finn, he pushed her out of her apartment window. After more than thirty five years he was sitting in his office feeling proud that no one could solve the murder and give justice to three ladies that he killed. He also said it would have been good to have some challenge. To conclude reading this book as been a great experience it as like being in a movie theater watching a movie. A lot of suspense took place but the murder ended up unsolved. Pelican Stride was a good criminal. He was the type of criminal who kept his secret by screwing his only witness. If Robert Knight had been more intelligent, the murder could have been solved and these women would have find they justice and Pelican would have lose everything he posses and go to prison, WorksCited Sullivan, Richard. The Secrets of The Unadilla. Florida: Karen Hunter Media, 2009. Print. â€Å"The Secrets Of The Unadilla. †firstonepublishing. com. Web.

Biography of Hannah Höch, Co-Founder of Berlin Dada

Biography of Hannah Hà ¶ch, Co-Founder of Berlin Dada Hannah Hà ¶ch Facts Known for:  co-founder of Berlin Dada, an avant-garde art movementOccupation:  artist, the painter, especially noted for her photomontage workDates:  November 1, 1889 – May 31, 1978Also known as Joanne Hà ¶ch, Johanne Hà ¶ch Biography Hannah Hà ¶ch was born Johanne or Joanne Hà ¶ch in Gotha. She had to leave school at 15 to take care of a sister and was not able to resume her studies until she was 22. She studied glass design in Berlin from 1912 to 1914 at the Kunstgewerbeschule. World War I interrupted her studies, temporarily, but in 1915 she began studying graphic design at the Staatliche Kunstgewerbemuseum while working for a publisher. She worked as a pattern designer and writer on womens handicrafts from 1916 to 1926. In 1915 she began an affair and artistic partnership with Raoul Hausmann, a Viennese artist, which lasted until 1922. Through Hausmann, she became part of the Berlin Club Dada, the German group of Dadaists, an artistic movement dating from about 1916.  Other members besides Hà ¶ch and Hausmann were Hans Richter, George Grosz, Wieland Herzfelde, Johannes Baader, and John Heartfield.  She was the only woman in the group. Hannah Hà ¶ch and Dadaism She was also involved, after the first World War, with political radicalism, though Hà ¶ch herself expressed herself less politically than many of the others in the group.  The Dadaist sociopolitical commentary was often satirical. Hà ¶ch’s work is known for more subtle explorations of culture, especially gender and portrayals of the â€Å"new woman,† a phrase describing that era’s economically and sexually liberated women.   In the 1920s Hà ¶ch began a series of photomontages including images of women and of ethnographic objects from museums.  Photomontages combine images from popular publications, collage techniques, painting, and photography.  Ã‚  Nine of her works were in the 1920 First International Dada Fair. She began exhibiting more frequently starting in the late 1920s. One of her most famous works was Cut With the Kitchen Knife Dada Through the Last Weimar Beer-Belly Cultural Epoch of Germany,  portraying German politicians in contrast with (male) Dadaist artists. From 1926 to 1929 Hà ¶ch lived and worked in Holland. She lived for some years in a lesbian relationship with Dutch poet Til Brugman, in the Hague first and then from 1929 to 1935 in Berlin.  Images about same-sex love appear in some of her artwork of those years. Hà ¶ch spent the years of the Third Reich in Germany, forbidden from exhibiting because the regime considered Dadaist work â€Å"degenerate.†Ã‚  She tried to remain quiet and in the background, living in seclusion in Berlin. She married the much-younger businessman and pianist Kurt Matthies in 1938, divorcing in 1944. Though her work was not acclaimed after the war as it had been before the rise of the Third Reich, Hà ¶ch continued to produce her photomontages and to exhibit them internationally from 1945 until her death. In her work, she used photos, other paper objects, pieces of machines and various other objects to produce images, usually quite large. A 1976 retrospective was displayed at the Musà ©e dArt Moderne de la Ville de Paris and the Nationalgalerie Berlin. More Information About Hannah Hà ¶ch Categories: artist, photomontage, DadaistOrganizational Affiliations: Dadaism, Berlin Club DadaPlaces: Berlin, Germany, HollandPeriod: 20th century Print Bibliography Hannah Hà ¶ch. The Photomontages of Hannah Hoch. Compiled by Peter Boswell.

Birth Control Pills - Why Theyre Free

Birth Control Pills - Why Theyre Free American insurance companies are required to provide birth control pills and other forms of contraception at no cost to women under guidelines announced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in August 2011. The insurance rules calling for free birth control pills take effect on Aug. 1, 2012, and expand medical coverage under the health care reform law signed by President Barack Obama, The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The Affordable Care Act helps stop health problems before they start, said then Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. These historic guidelines are based on science and existing literature and will help ensure women get the preventive health benefits they need. At the time the rules were announced 28 states required health insurance companies to pay for birth control pills and other forms of contraception. Reaction to Free Birth Control Pills The rule requiring insurers to provide birth control for women at no cost was met with praise from family-planning organizations, and criticism from the health care industry and conservative activists. Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, described the Obama administration rule as being a historic victory for womens health and women across the country. Covering birth control without co-pays is one of the most important steps we can take to prevent unintended pregnancy and keep women and children healthy, Richards said in a prepared statement. Conservative activists argued that taxpayer money should not be used to pay for contraception, and the healthcare industry said the move would force them to raise premiums and increase the cost of coverage to consumers. How Insurers Will Provide Birth Control Pills The rules give women access to all Food and Drug Administration-approved contraceptive methods, sterilization procedures, and patient education and counseling. The measure does not include abortifacient drugs or emergency contraception. The coverage rules allow insurers to use reasonable medical management to help define their coverage and keep costs down. For example, they will still be allowed to charge copayments for brand-name drugs if a generic version is available and is just as effective and safe for the patient. Copayments, or copays, are paid by consumers when they purchase prescriptions or go to their doctors. Birth control pills cost as much as $50 a month under many insurance plans. Religious institutions that offer insurance to their employees have the choice of whether to cover birth control pills and other contraception services. Reason for Free Birth Control Pills The Department of Health and Human Services considers the provision of birth control pills as necessary preventive health care. Before health reform, too many Americans didnt get the preventive health care they need to stay healthy, avoid or delay the onset of disease, lead productive lives, and reduce health care costs, the agency said. Often because of cost, Americans used preventive services at about half the recommended rate. The government described family planning services as being an essential preventive service for women and critical to appropriately spacing and ensuring intended pregnancies, which results in improved maternal health and better birth outcomes. Other Preventative Measures Covered Under the rules announced in 2011, insurers are also required to provide, at no cost to consumers: well-woman visits;screening for gestational diabetes;human papillomavirus DNA testing for women 30 years and older;sexually-transmitted infection counseling;human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening and counseling;breastfeeding support, supplies, and counseling;and domestic violence screening and counseling. 2018: Trump Weakens Birth Control Coverage Mandate On November 7, 2018, the Trump administration issued two final regulations allowing employers to deny women insurance coverage for birth control measures as a preventative health service. The first of the two rules issued by the Department of Health and Human Services allows exemptions to the Obamacare contraceptive coverage mandate for entities that object to such coverage based on religious beliefs. The second final rule allows coverage exemptions to nonprofit organizations and small businesses that have moral, non-religious objections to contraception. â€Å"The Departments estimate the exemptions may affect the coverage of approximately 6,400 women, and state that in no case will they impact more than 127,000 women, which the Departments suggest is far more than will actually be impacted,† said the Department in a press release. The religious and moral exemptions provided by the rules apply to institutions of education, issuers, and individuals. However, the exemption for moral beliefs does not extend to publicly traded businesses, and neither the moral nor the religious exemption apply to federal government agencies or entities, according to the Department. â€Å"These rules affect a small fraction of the 165 million women in the U.S.† Stated the Department. â€Å"The rules leave in place contraceptive coverage guidelines where no religious or moral objection exists, and they do not change the Health Resources and Services Administration’s authority to decide whether to include contraceptives in the women’s preventive services guidelines for other entities.† Issued in the form of federal regulations at the direction of a presidential executive order, rather than an act of Congress, the rules may be amended or repealed at any time by the current or future presidential administrations. Updated by Robert Longley

Strategy at Tesco Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Strategy at Tesco - Assignment Example is therefore a lot of pressure on traditional means of consumer shopping and the consumer behavior in the current scene of the UK economy is bad news for all. In the third quarter however, there has been seen a slight increase in sales due to people shopping for winter clothes and school uniforms and economists believe that this my point to a recovery of the economy, starting in the beginning of 2013. The third quarter saw sales volumes grow by 1%, compared to 0% in the previous quarter – a tremendous improvement when compared to the low growth seen in the last two years of very low shopping. (Uruci 2012) Looking at the current figures, although the growth rate seems to be on the rise, there is always that nagging doubt whether the economy is going to flourish or fall in the near future and how that is going to affect the retail industry. Take for instance the Olympic season – online sales in the UK fell since people were busy watching the Olympics instead of shopping as they normally would. Such is the state of the economy in the UK. (BBC 2012) Founded in 1919 by Jack Cohen, Tesco is one of the largest retailers in the world. They operate in 14 countries and employ over 520,000 people, and serve millions of customers every week. (Tesco PLC: History). What used to originally be a grocery retailer has grown tremendously to include books, clothing, electronics, furniture, petrol, software, financial services, DVD rentals, telecom and internet services, music downloads and so much more. Food or groceries however, still remains their greatest strength. Tesco currently appeals to a wide audience, across social groups because of its variety of products that range between Tesco Value and Tesco Finest. This gives them a benefit as they aren’t just focused on cost, but they work to provide quality and experience as well. Tesco is in an extremely competitive environment. They face competition from quite a lot of retail stores, many primarily grocers like

Facility Management Paper Speech or Presentation

Facility Management Paper - Speech or Presentation Example All these must be handled in a coordinated manner either concurrently for some and/or in a procedural way for others to ensure event success and leave stakeholders and guests smiling. The context of the event in this paper involves managing a potential event to be held at an arena in Charles Town, West Virginia. The stadium has a seating capacity of 65,000 and is used as a multipurpose facility for many occasions particularly sporting ones. This time it is expected to host the 2015 NCAA Final Four. This paper will provide information on how the event can be organized successfully in terms of planning for its management, risk management, crowd control procedures, medical emergency, and evacuation. It will also try to describe how facility negligence can be avoided to minimize risks and undesirable outcomes. 2. Event Planning Planning is the most important part of any occasion or project to be undertaken. This would generally involve developing a management plan including a program of activities to be done and timing. In case advertising or other advance activities are to be done, these must be planned earlier than the event date and a time schedule is therefore important here. The scope of management skills required for such an event would include organizing, resourcing, creative directing, human resource management, negotiating, financial management, public representation and troubleshooting (Enock and Jacobs, 2008). 2.1 Details of the Event As an event manager, I would begin by enquiring about event time if the date in 2015 has not been decided on already. This is important so that the timing for the NCAA final four is scheduled at a time when weather is favorable for majority of people to be in town to boost turn up and success. The venue has already been decided upon and so that may not be an event detail to deal with. 2.2 Setting up the Organizing Committee Group or team work is always an important aspect of any work management style. Here I would be concer ned about who are the main stakeholders for this event including promoters, stadium facility people, and service providers among others. A statement of roles and responsibilities would then be developed after brainstorming on the key activity areas. Managing committees effectively means recognizing why people became involved; it requires a combination of organizational skills and an understanding of the members. Skills match to roles and jobs to be done is important to achieve effective and efficient performance of the work at hand. I would promote motivation of members of the committee by appraising, recognition, instilling a sense of ownership of the process to them and encouraging networking and acquisition of new knowledge and skills by individuals. Based on technical expertise of the members, I shall set up a number of necessary subcommittees to deal with duties of secretariat, technical, logistics, sponsorship, and publicity. 2.3 Set Clear Objectives With the committee in plac e, I will then guide the process

Final exam Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Final exam - Assignment Example Strategic management also assumes the responsibility of determining whether the strategy requires any modification due the change in the external environment of the entity. Thus, it can be inferred strategic management system is highly important for an organization’s survival in a competitive industry. In order to increase its share in the overall market, an organization needs to increase its customer base. Consumers are highly important for an organization because it is the end consumer that determines the success of an organization. If the organization manages to maintain goodwill among the consumers, it would be successful in acquiring the market share otherwise the organization might not be able to face the threats posed by its competitors. Strategic management system helps an organization conduct periodic evaluation of the external factors that affect the organization’s strategy and one of those factors is the consumer’s demand. Thus, by using strategic mana gement system, an organization can assess the social trends and the demand for its products among consumers. An organization can also receive feedback from consumers with regard to its products. In this manner, an organization can provide better public services by using strategic management system and designing its strategy in accordance with the consumer demand. Thus, it can be concluded that strategic management system is very important for an organization because it helps the organization formulate strategies after assessing the external environment of the organization. Therefore, the strategy determined by the organization would be in conformity with the consumer trends and the organization would be able to provide better public services. This would in turn help the organization in building its goodwill among the consumers as well. Question 2 Please identify and describe five (5) key environmental changes that can influence strategic management. An organization is always affecte d by the environment it operates in. It can never be isolated from its environment therefore it needs to continuously adapt to its external environment. There are certain external factors that affect the strategic management of an organization. The environmental changes that can influence the strategic management are; Political, Economic, Social, Technological and Legal. Political changes depend upon extent to which the governmental authorities take part in the economy of the country. The political changes that may influence an organization’s strategic management are changes in tax policy, corporate laws related to social responsibility, changes in environmental laws, restrictions upon trade and tariffs. All these factors can affect the organization in accordance with the business of the organization. If the organization is a trading company and it imports goods in bulk quantities, it can be highly affected by import restrictions and tariffs on imports imposed by the governme nt. Therefore, the organization may have to modify its strategy accordingly. Economic changes may be changes in interest rates, inflation rate and the exchange rates. If the organization conducts business in international market, any change in exchange rates can influence its business transactions. Social changes that may

Tesla Motors Essay Example for Free

Tesla Motors Essay Elon Musk successfully established Tesla Motors as one of the leaders in the electric vehicle industry since his induction as CEO in 2008. Tesla Motors designs, manufactures, and sells electric cars and powertrain components. The company also provides services for the development of powertrain systems and components, and sells electric powertrain components to other automotive manufacturers. It markets and sells its vehicles through Tesla stores as well as over the internet (Mora 2014, 1). Consumers and companies are looking to save at the pump, and what better way to do so than with electric vehicles (Mora 2014, 1)? Through government support and raised capital, Musk has put Tesla in an advantageous position to capitalize on the growing electric vehicle market. Battery electric vehicles will increase at a 31.5% compound annual growth over the next seven years (Navigant Research 2013). With Musk’s leadership and innovation, Tesla plans on boosting sales by increasing current production of the Model S, introducing the Model X SUV in 2015, and introducing the more affordable Gen III by 2017 (Recharge Now, Forbes 2013). â€Å"Tesla has now crept onto the top ten list for brand perception, as ranked by Consumer Reports† (Ingram 2013, 1). Tesla is exceeding their own expectations as more consumers are becoming familiar with their company. In 2013, sales totaled to 22,450, while forecasts were set at 21,500 (Ohnsman). All of this success has resulted in Tesla’s stock rising nearly $100 this past year (Yahoo Finance 2014). With people increasingly worrying about the harmful effects of combustion engines on the environment and the limited supply of oil, the market for electric cars has a ton of potential. While there is tons of potential for Tesla, the truth is that they have yet to make an annual profit. Yes, they did raise their revenue from $413 million to $2 billion in the last year, but this still resulted in a net loss of $74 million (Yahoo Finance 2014). This loss is primarily due to the high cost of goods sold, which is why it is so important to keep researching and developing cheaper ways to produce their technology. â€Å"Few expect to trim electric-car battery costs by more than 20%-30% by the planned 2016† (Recharge Now, Forbes 2013). Increasing sales indicates a positive future for Tesla, but if they are unable to effectively reduce the cost of goods their financial condition will suffer. Next, we will examine the opportunities that Tesla could capitalize on with their substantial growth over the past few years. Being that oil is a limited resource, it’s only a matter of time before the supply becomes extremely scarce, resulting in skyrocketing oil prices. This event should cause a major shift to the use of electric vehicles. The average consumer cannot afford the $90,000 and up Model S, but many are still interested in owning an electric vehicle. Musk realizes this opportunity and has begun developing a more affordable model known as the Gen III. In order to launch this model at a price point of around $35,000 Tesla must drastically reduce the cost of batteries. Tesla unveiled details about a plan to build a â€Å"gigafactory†. It will cost them $5 billion, but it will reduce battery costs by an impressive 30% in the first year (Trefis 2014, 1). At peak production, this factory will be able to produce 50 gigawatt-hours of batteries in a year, more than the entire world’s current production (Trefis 2014,2). At this point, Tesla could provide surplus batteries to the electronic industry and potentially become a leading producer of energy storage. Despite all of this, there are potential threats to Tesla’s business, mainly the competition they face in the alternative fuel vehicle market. Many established and upcoming automobile manufacturers have entered, or plan on entering this market. For example, BMW, Cadillac, Porsche, and Audi are promoting new plug-in models aimed at affluent consumers (White 2013, 1). Established luxury brands are muscling on to Teslas turf in part because government policies are forcing them to, and in part because they see Mr. Musk peeling away influential trendsetters they dont want to lose (White 2013, 2). The impact of these new luxury plug-ins on Tesla will depend on whether they are trying to expand the segment, or merely go after the same consumers. With Elon Musk’s plan to increase production of the Model S, while introducing two new vehicles by 2015 and 2017, the Model X and Gen III, we  should expect to see continued success from Tesla Motors. If Musk successfully reduces operational costs and offers consumers an affordable Tesla model, he may trigger an amazing turning point in the auto industry and leave a lasting impression on the world. Works Cited Alpert, Bill. â€Å"Recharge Now!† Forbes. 10 June 2013. Web. 16 October 2013. â€Å"Electric Vehicle Market Forecasts. Navigant Research. Navigant Consulting Inc, 2014. Web. 13 Mar. 2014. Ingra, Antony. Tesla Gains In Brand Awareness. Green Car Reports. High Gear Media, 4 Feb. 2013. Web. 13 Mar. 2014. Mora, Victor. Is Tesla Motors an Attractive Investment? Wall St. Cheat Sheet. Wall St Cheat Sheet, 21 Jan. 2014. Web. 13 Mar. 2014. Ohnsman, Alan. Tesla Rises After Model S Sales in 2013 Exceed Forecast. Bloomberg.com. Bloomberg, 15 Jan. 2014. Web. 13 Mar. 2014. â€Å"Tesla Motors Inc. (TSLA).† Yahoo Finance. Web. 13 March 2014. http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=tslaql=1. Trefis. Gigafactory Will Cost Tesla $5 Billion But Offers Significant Cost Reductions. Forbes. Forbes Magazine, 11 Mar. 2014. Web. 13 Mar. 2014. White, Joseph B. BMW, Cadillac Aim to Pull Plug on Tesla With Pricey New Cars. The Wall Street Journal. Dow Jones Company, 20 Nov. 2013. Web. 13 Mar. 2014.

If We Are What We Eat, What Does This Count As? Essay -- Food Health S

References can possibly be made between the modern world of high school and the brutal wilderness of Africa. Walk into any high school, and even a college or two, cafeteria and the similarities are blatantly obvious. Here is where the watering hole can be seen: the very place where members of the tribe or pack congregate everyday to talk, eat, and determine the food chain. There are the lions, the seniors of the school, lounging lazily in the sun and reveling in their greatest accomplishment yet: gaining acceptance into college. Next the elephants make themselves known, juniors loud and looking to prove their worth to the rest of the jungle, showing they are capable of operating the complex system known as high school once the seniors are gone. Sophomores present themselves in the form of the chimpanzees, hanging out in the trees, watching another year and all the commotion around them floating leisurely by. Finally, we see the gazelles, frightened freshmen quivering in anticipat ion and excitement of the next four years of their lives, looking for a safe place to graze the savannas. While these four components of the jungle happen smoothly and seem to take little effort, little thought is given to the primary purpose of the animal’s gathering: the food itself. Food, as a vital and necessary part of any being’s existence, is served to the masses within cafeterias across the nation. For many of these schools and some colleges, the food served is neither of the highest quality, nor the most satisfying available. Across the country, millions of schools every year are serving below average meals which do not meet health standards necessary for growing students, meals which are also dissatisfying to the student in both taste and qua... ... distribution of frozen entrees. Better lunches begin with fresh produce, whole grains, and fruits. By way of these five recommended solutions, surely there can be one valid enough to make precedence for the future and allow a better, healthier America. Works Cited http://www.healthyschoollunches.org/reports/report2008_intro.cfm http://www.diseaseproof.com/archives/cat-school-food.html http://news.health.com/2009/03/04/school-lunches-fatty-sugary-critics-say/ http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/pyramid-full-story/index.html http://www.rwjf.org/childhoodobesity/product.jsp?id=32491 http://www.cnn.com/2003/EDUCATION/07/01/health.lunch.reut/index.html http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36023553/ns/health-diet_and_nutrition http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6430258/ http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_1952.cfm

The Four Contexts of Motivation

Malcolm Knowles’ research in adult motivational learning produced four â€Å"distinct contexts†; Practical, Personal, Experiential, and Idealistic. The Practical context is motivated by a direct desired benefit result received from the learning such as a specific employment position, for financial wisdom and gain, or to apply the learning towards greater competency and confidence in making life decisions in situations anywhere from family to work, or even building that dream house that may have previously thought to be unattainable.The Personal context involves motivation directed by self fulfillment goals to overall better oneself and therein the quality of life. An adult student may for example want to learn in this context to increase self worth. Experiential learning differs from the other contexts in that one draws from real-life and past experiences motivated by a desire for renewal by consolidating with more current and forward ideas with the goal of improving an d refreshing their experience.The final Idealistic context motivation attracts those who just desire to continuously learn for the sake of the ongoing discovery of knowledge and new ideas throughout their lifespan. Learning wine tasting may be a venture for this type of learner. My learning motivation is Experiential. Professionally I have experienced a long career in the Human Resources field and held BA degree positions despite the fact that I did not have one. I do have my PHR but have learned mostly in a hands-on context. I have experienced both successful and unsuccessful situations during my career.I started my college education years ago and have procrastinated about returning for many years. I finally came to the realization that I need that degree and everything it offers in order to become more competent and confident in my business decisions. The unsuccessful situations I have experienced were due to my lack of a solid educational background. When I lacked the educational background to perform some of the tasks I was assigned I became panicked, stressed and found it necessary to be reactive.My motto during those times became ‘‘fake it until you make it! †. That attitude eventually caught up with me and forced me to face what I was missing. It took my losing a couple of positions to overcome the denial I was in. I know that I need this degree to enhance my performance and definitely for organizational development. I am know on a serious mission to complete this goal and believe attending Ashford University will give me the competency, knowledge and confidence I need to be successful resulting in a much happier and less stressful lifestyle.

Poetry comparison essay- ‘Poem’ and ‘Sonnet 19’ Essay

For my assignment I am going to compare two sonnets, written in early-mid 1590 and the second in 1990s, by popular poets William Shakespeare and Simon Armitage. I will be writing about their content, meaning, structure, style, rhyme pattern, persona, imagery, language and the tone set in each piece of writing and comparing how each characteristic is similar and different. In the early-mid 1590s, William Shakespeare wrote a sonnet, in his own style – Shakespearean – in the traditional context: love. It was vaguely called ‘Sonnet 19’, which suggests he is displaying that perhaps he was not completely connected, emotionally, with the sonnet. However, this fact could be contradicted in the way that all his sonnets were simply identified with a number, this particular one not being different. The sonnet itself is written as a persona; it is meant to be perceived as coming from a character, possibly from one of his plays? It is about the loved one of the persona, aging with time, and the narrator pleading to ‘devouring’ Time (time, in this case, being classed as a noun) that He shouldn’t age his loved one. In this sense, it is a traditional sonnet; it is about love. Consisting of fourteen lines, and a structure of an octane, followed by a quatrane and then a couplet; it is a typical Shakespearean sonnet. This poem has a rhyme scheme of ABAB, CDCD, EFEF for the first twelve lines of it, however for the final couplet; a simple GG is used instead. This rhyme scheme gives a rhythm to the sonnet, and creates a less drastic and eerie atmosphere when reading; because the rhythm is more bouncy that that of a poem without the use of direct, full rhyme. Also, the iambic pentameter present in the sonnet gives out a more flowing beat when reading the poem. It also makes the sonnet seem a little less dark and tense, as it releases ease for the readers. The ten syllables on each line are important to the poem, to increase flow and to possibly give the audience a little humor; whether or not this was purposeful we don’t know. But we do know Shakespeare mean to include ten syllables in each and every line of ‘Sonnet 19’. The first octane introducing the problem the persona is faced with: in this case the fear that the one he loves will be negatively affected by time. This tells the reader what the person the poem is directed from, is possibly quite shallow- due to the fact he pleads with ‘Devouring Time’ not to ‘carve with thy hours [his] love’s fair brow’. This means that he doesn’t want time to have an effect on his loved one’s appearance, which brings out a hint of arrogance from the ‘writer’. However, this point can be disregarded by the time the reader gets to the couplet at the conclusion of the text. The persona comes to the compromise that, even if time does eat away at his loved one, the beauty and youth will exist forever in his writing; ‘[his] love shall in [his] verse ever live young’. Referring back to the first eight lines of the sonnet, lots of imagery is used in the introduction. At first, the imagery creates slightly more stubborn and fierce images; as if the persona is ordering Time to not touch his loved one. However, on the ninth line, ‘O carve not with thy hours my love’s fair brow’ gives the reader the impression that the persona is suddenly changing his attitude, and possibly realising the harder sense that was given off in the first octane. It paints an image of him almost begging, given the ‘O’ put as the opening to the line softens his tone sufficiently to create an imagery that puts the persona in a much less dominant place. Imagery in the first octane includes more angry phases, as he is almost demanding an answer for Time’s cruelty to the Earth, and to people and animals. This is shown through lines such as, ‘[Time] plucks the keen teeth from the tiger’s jaws’. This is saying that Time makes a tiger age, and therefore be drawn to less youthful features; loss of teeth, sufficiently less strength etc. But instead of saying this, a harsh image of somebody ferociously pulling the set of a tiger’s teeth out is created to add the effect of anger which has overcome the persona. The text itself is about love- along with the majority of other traditional sonnets. However, the poem is believed to be addressed to a man, however this doesn’t indicate a homosexual relationship between the persona and the subject. It is believed that Shakespeare may have been gay, but it will never be known for sure and this is just one interpretation of his writing. The second sonnet I am going to compare is one of which by Simon Armitage and is called, yet again- vaguely, ‘Poem’. Already, a similarity is appearing between the two sonnets with just the name and the appearance of a poor connection between the poet and the actual piece of writing. The sonnet was written in the 1990’s and so will be much newer than that of Shakespeare’s, but there are in fact many similarities between the two, despite the time difference. Once again, the same structure has been used; first an octane, then a quatrane and a couplet to end with. The eight lines and the last two serve the same purpose as the ‘Sonnet 19’ does; to introduce, and the couplet to conclude. However, the quatrane between the two simply continues the first octane in more detail- introducing the situation. Within this structure, yet another pattern was used; speaking in three lines about a positive part of the situation then including one negative fact, before returning to a lighter tone for three more lines. Also, the iambic pentameter is also used in this sonnet- and was likely to be purposeful to lighten the mood slightly, maybe to enhance the slight use of humour in some parts of the poem. However, the rhyme scheme; ABAB CCCC DDDD and EE, also makes the text more rhythmic and upbeat. Although, because the rhymes are mainly just half-rhymes (not full ones) we can’t be sure that the rhyme scheme was purposeful, and if they were, whether they were purposefully just half. Half rhymes generally, if used in deliberate format, dampen any humour included in a piece. This is because rhymes usually make it easier to read and more happy, or upbeat, but when reading ‘Poem’, you get a sense that a deliberate darkening to the mood was put into the text. The actual poem itself is not about love, unlike ‘Sonnet 19’ and many other traditional poems; it is thought to be an obituary. It speaks about somebody’s life, and also as if this person has passed away, or been removed from society. This also adds to the eerie feel, yet speaks of his life with a slightly humorous side. The imagery created in the positive lines of the poem develops a happier phase in this person’s life in each stanza. Phrases such as, ‘he praised his wife for every meal she made’ give off an impression he was a very kind man, and that he was also family-orientated. It tells us he was appreciative of others- showing a kinder, softer side to him. However, the fourth line of each phase cuts out the happier tone and surprises the reader with the fact that he one punched his wife ‘in the face’ for laughing. This immediately develops a cold image of this man and the reader recognises that he had a dark side as well as a good one. It also makes him out to be a violent and possibly incontrollable man. The use of slang is present in this poem, joined by many other of Armitage’s pieces, in the way he uses the word ‘slippered’ when describing the way he punished his daughter for lying. This is not proper English and perhaps was deliberate to create a picture of this man being very common, down-to-earth and possibly just your everyday person. This constantly switching of imagery soon develops a balanced view in the reader’s mind; that perhaps this man represents any normal person- for having both good and bad inside us is in everybody’s mannerisms. In the final couplet of this sonnet- which also includes a half-rhyme, instead of full- Armitage concludes the poem, saying the man the first twelve lines painted of was considered to be normal, and when people ‘looked back’ at his time, their thoughts were ‘sometimes he did this, sometimes he did that’. This tells us that his moods changed, along with his attitude and that he did both good and bad in his time. The way the final couplet concludes is the same as Shakespeare’s finale; and they both end the poem in a generally lighter tone. I believe that the two sonnets compared in my coursework are very similar, despite the change in times. Poetry clearly will not differ over time, and the similarities between the two indicate that sonnets- if kept traditional- will always be very similar.

The Factors that Contribute to the Effective Use of iPads with PMLD Pupils. The WritePass Journal

The Factors that Contribute to the Effective Use of iPads with PMLD Pupils. Description The Factors that Contribute to the Effective Use of iPads with PMLD Pupils. ): Develop research questions. Phase 2 (August 2012): Conducted critical review of relevant literature. Phase 3 (September 2012): Conduct classroom observation. Disseminate questionnaire to second school. Phase 4 (October 2012): Conduct semi-structured interviews with teachers. Phase 5 (November – December 2012): Data collation and analysis Phase 6 (Early 2013): Review, question and action. Disseminate research findings to interested parties. There will be several issues with this study and the implementation of these teaching methods. For instance it is important to individually assess the needs and strengths of each pupil in order to provide them with a personalised experience which meets their needs (Handy, 2000). If the technology is used without first assessing the needs of the pupil then it may be of little benefit, and it is important that the teachers understand the aims and logic behind these teaching methods so they can implement them correctly and assess any development and success (Florian and Hegarty, 2004). These potential issues will be factored in to all research. Rationale Despite the rapid advances in the field of special education over the last few decades children with PMLD have continued to present a challenge to teachers and teaching methods. In the 1980s teachers developed the intensive interaction methods of trying to improve the communication skills of those with disabilities and learning difficulties, which has proven to be effective in some cases. (Lovell, 1998). The use of iPads build on these methods by providing an interactive experience which will engage the pupils. If this is successful the Apple iPad can provide a one-to-one learning experience while minimising the number of carers required, promoting a more productive teaching method (Davis and Florian, 2004). This could go a long way to revolutionising how those with disabilities and learning difficulties are taught and could not only improve the educational system but also the individual lives of those affected. Technology is already implemented in some specialist schools as a tool for teaching. It is believed that Information Communication Technology can be used to support specialised needs in mainstream as well as specialist environments (Condie, Munro, Seagraves Kenesson, 2007). Ofsted have also reported that technology has been used effectively to overcome learning barriers (Ofsted 2005; 2004a) and a project to provide technology aids to pupils was well received by both parents and pupils alike (Wright et al., 2004). The personalised environment provided by educational technology will improve the pupils quality of life and take demand away from the education system. Literature Review I will lead my research by conducting a full and detailed literature review into the previous and current studies surrounding this topic. This will include analysis of Census data and Ofsted reports regarding PMLD children and the use of technology in classrooms. Existing reports and articles will also be reviewed to determine how successful studies have been so far. For instance several studies have been conducted into the importance of visual and interactive learning environments. A study by Sparrowhawk and Heald (2007) suggested that educational software should be colourful, interactive, accompanied by sound and provide the pupil with a challenge as well as constant feedback, in order to stimulate the mind and interest. Foyle (2012) supports this theory by stating that pupils are most motivated when supplied with sound, music and a reward system. Flo Longhorn and Penny Lacey also advocate a sensory approach to learning after working with PMLD pupils for over ten years. I expect my examination of the field to further support the theory that iPads will improve the learning of pupils with disabilities. Conclusion As pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties have impairment in communication and cannot function in what would be considered a normal learning environment, steps must be taken to improve their learning experience. Studies have proven that support can be successfully provided through the implementation of technology in order to provide an individual experience based on the pupils needs. This gives the pupils a safe method of communicating with the world around them. The Apple iPad has the greatest potential to meet the requirements of PMLD pupils due to its interactive, portable and user-friendly nature. References Condie, R.,   Munro, B.,   Seagraves, L. Kenesson, S. (2007). The impact of ICT in schools – a landscape review. Becta. Davis, P. Florian, L. (2004). Teaching strategies and approaches for pupils with special educational needs: A scoping study. Department for Education and Skills. Available at education.gov.uk/complexneeds/modules/Module-1.1-Understanding-the-child-development-anddifficulties/All/downloads/m01p010c/II.teaching_strategies%20including_aspects _of_II.pdf. (Accessed 03.08 2012). Florian, L. Hegarty, J. (2004).  ICT and Special Educational Needs (Learning Teaching With ICT). 1st Edition. Open University Press. Foyle, A. (2012). Switched on to education. SEN Magazine Online, January 2012. Available at: senmagazine.co.uk/articles/378-switched-on-to-education-the-use-of-ict-in-sen.html (accessed 29.08.2012) Lacey, P. (2011) . Online Available at: senmagazine.co.uk/articles/396-designing-a-curriculum-for-pmld-a-profound-challenge.html (accessed 29.08.2012). Longhorn, F. (1998). A Sensory Curriculum for Very Special People. London: Souvenir Press Ltd. Lovell, D.M., Jones, R.S.P. and Ephraim, G. (1998) ‘The effect of Intensive Interaction on the sociability of a man with severe intellectual disabilities’, International Journal of Practical Approaches to Disability. Vol. 22, Nos 2/3, 3-9 Mills, G. E. (2006).  Action Research: A Guide for the Teacher Researcher (3rd Edition). Prentice Hall. Ofsted (2004a), Report: ICT in schools – the impact of government initiatives: School Portraits – Eggbuckland Community College. London: Ofsted Ofsted (2005,) Embedding ICT in schools – a dual evaluation exercise. London: Ofsted. Porter, Ouvry, Morgan, Downs, Interpreting the communication of people with profound and multiple learning difficulties, British Journal of Learning Disabilities, Volume 29, Issue 1, pages 12–16, March 2001 Reason, P. Bradbury, H., (2002). The SAGE Handbook of Action Research. Participative Inquiry and Practice. 1st Edition. London: Sage Sparrowhawk, A.   Heald, Y. (2007).  How to Use   ICT Effectively With Children With Special Educational Needs. Edition. Learning Development Aids. Waters-Adams, S. (2006). Action Research in Education. Faculty of Education Plymouth. Wright, J, Clarke, M, Donlan, C, Lister, C, Weatherly, H, Newton, C, Cherguit, J and Newton, E (2004). Evaluation of the Communication Aids Project (CAP). London. Available at: DfES. dfes.gov.uk/research/data/uploadfiles/RR580.pdf (accessed 14.08.2012).

An Introduction to Virtue Ethics

An Introduction to Virtue Ethics â€Å"Virtue ethics† describes a certain philosophical approach to questions about morality. It is a way of thinking about ethics that is characteristic of ancient Greek and Roman philosophers, particularly Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.   But it has become popular again since the later part of the 20th century due to the work of thinkers like Elizabeth Anscombe, Philippa Foot, and Alasdair MacIntyre. The Central Question of Virtue Ethics How should I live?   This has a good claim to being the most fundamental question that you can put to yourself.   But philosophically speaking, there is another question that perhaps has to be answered first: namely, How should I decide how to live? There are several answers available within the Western philosophical tradition:   The religious answer:  God has given us a set of rules to follow. These are laid out in scripture (e.g. the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament, the Koran). The right way to live is to follow these rules. That is the good life for a human being.Utilitarianism: This is the view that what matters most in the world in the promotion of happiness and the avoidance of suffering.   So the right way to live is, in a general way, to try to promote the most happiness you can, both your own and that of other people– especially those around you–while trying to avoid causing pain or unhappiness.Kantian ethics: The great German philosopher Immanuel Kant argues that the basic rule we should follow is neither â€Å"Obey God’s laws,† nor â€Å"Promote happiness.† Instead, he claimed that the fundamental principle of morality is something like: Always act in the way that you could honestly want everyone to act if they were in a similar situation. Anyone who abides by this rule, he claims, will be behaving with complete consistency and rationality, and they will unfailingly do the right thing. What all three approaches have in common is that they view morality as a matter of following certain rules. There are very general, fundamental rules, like â€Å"Treat others as you’d like to be treated,† or â€Å"Promote happiness.† And there are lots of more specific rules that can be deduced from these general principles: e.g. â€Å"Don’t bear false witness,† or â€Å"Help the needy.† The morally good life is one lived according to these principles; wrongdoing occurs when the rules are broken. The emphasis is on duty, obligation, and the rightness or wrongness of actions. Plato and Aristotle ‘s way of thinking about morality had a different emphasis. They also asked: How should one live? But took this question to be equivalent to What kind of person does one want to be? That is, what sort of qualities and character traits are admirable and desirable. Which should be cultivated in ourselves and others? And which traits should we seek to eliminate? Aristotles Account of Virtue In his great work, the Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle offers a detailed analysis of the virtues that has been enormously influential and is the starting point for most discussions of virtue ethics. The Greek term that is usually translated as â€Å"virtue† is arà ªte.  Speaking generally, arà ªte is a kind of excellence. It is a quality that enables a thing to perform its purpose or function. The sort of excellence in question can be specific to particular kinds of thing. For instance, the main virtue of a racehorse is to be fast; the main virtue of a knife is to be sharp. People performing specific functions also require specific virtues: e.g. a competent accountant must be good with numbers; a soldier needs to be physically brave. But there are also virtues that it is good for any human being to possess, the qualities that enable them to live a good life and to flourish as a human being. Since Aristotle thinks that what distinguishes human beings from all other animals is our rationality, the good life for a human being is one in which the rational faculties are fully exercised. These include things like the capacities for friendship, civic participation, aesthetic enjoyment, and intellectual enquiry. Thus for Aristotle, the life of a pleasure-seeking couch potato is not an example of the good life. Aristotle distinguishes between the intellectual virtues, which are exercised in the process of thinking, and the moral virtues, which are exercised through action.   He conceives of a moral virtue as a character trait that it is good to possess and that a person displays habitually.   This last point about habitual behavior is important.   A generous person is one who is routinely generous, not just generous occasionally. A person who only keeps some of their promises does not have the virtue of trustworthiness. To really have the virtue is for it to be deeply ingrained in your personality. One way to achieve this is to keep practicing the virtue so that it becomes habitual. Thus to become a truly generous person you should keep performing generous actions until generosity just comes naturally and easily to you; it becomes, as one says, â€Å"second nature.† Aristotle argues that each moral virtue is a sort of mean lying between two extremes. One extreme involves a deficiency of the virtue in question, the other extreme involves possessing it to excess. For example, Too little courage cowardice; too much courage recklessness. Too little generosity stinginess; too much generosity extravagance. This is the famous doctrine of the â€Å"golden mean.†Ã‚   The â€Å"mean,† as Aristotle understands it is not some sort of mathematical halfway point between the two extremes; rather, it is what is appropriate in the circumstances. Really, the upshot of Aristotle’s argument seems to be that any trait we consider a virtue as to be exercised with wisdom. Practical wisdom (the Greek word is phronesis), although strictly speaking an intellectual virtue, turns out to be absolutely key to being a good person and living a good life. Having practical wisdom means being able to assess what is required in any situation. This includes knowing when one should follow a rule and when one should break it. And it calls into play knowledge, experience, emotional sensitivity, perceptiveness, and reason. The Advantages of Virtue Ethics Virtue ethics certainly didn’t die away after Aristotle. Roman Stoics like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius also focused on character rather than abstract principles. And they, too, saw moral virtue as constitutive of the good life– that is, being a morally good person is a key ingredient of living well and being happy.   No-one who lacks virtue can possibly be living well, even if they have wealth, power, and lots of pleasure. Later thinkers like Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) and David Hume (1711-1776) also offered moral philosophies in which the virtues played a central role.   But it is fair to say that virtue ethics took a back seat in the 19th and 20th centuries. The revival of virtue ethics in the mid-late 20th century was fueled by dissatisfaction with rule-oriented ethics, and a growing appreciation of some of the advantages of an Aristotelian approach. These advantages included the following. Virtue ethics offers a broader conception of ethics in general.  It doesn’t see moral philosophy as confined to working out which actions are right and which actions are wrong. It also asks what constitutes well-being or human flourishing. We may not have a duty to flourish in the way we have a duty not to commit murder; but questions about well-being are still legitimate questions for moral philosophers to address.It avoids the inflexibilities of rule-oriented ethics.  According to Kant, for instance, we must always and in every circumstance obey his fundamental principle of morality, his â€Å"categorical imperative.† This led him to conclude that one must never tell a lie or break a promise.   But the morally wise person is precisely the one who recognizes when the best course of action is to break the normal rules. Virtue ethics offers rules of thumb, not iron rigidities.Because it is concerned with character, with what kind of person one is, virtue ethics pay s more attention to our inner states and feelings as opposed to focusing exclusively on actions. For a utilitarian, what matters is that you do the right thing–that is, you promote the greatest happiness of the greatest number (or follow a rule that is justified by this goal).   But as a matter of fact, this is not all we care about. It matters why someone is generous or helpful or honest. The person who is honest simply because they think being honest is good for their business is less admirable that the person who is honest through and through and would not cheat a customer even if they could be sure that no one would ever find them out. Virtue ethics has also opened the door to some novel approaches and insights pioneered by feminist thinkers who argue that traditional moral philosophy has emphasized abstract principles over concrete interpersonal relationships. The early bond between mother and child, for instance, could be one of the essential building blocks of moral life, providing both an experience and an example of loving care for another person. Objections to Virtue Ethics Needless to say, virtue ethics has its critics. Here are a few of the most common criticisms leveled against it. â€Å"How can I flourish?† is really just a fancy way of asking â€Å"What will make me happy?†Ã‚   This may be a perfectly sensible question to ask, but it really isn’t a moral question. It’s a question about one’s self-interest. Morality, though, is all about how we treat other people. So this expansion of ethics to include questions about flourishing takes moral theory away from its proper concern.Virtue ethics by itself can’t really answer any particular moral dilemma. It doesn’t have the tools to do this. Suppose you have to decide whether or not to tell a lie in order to save your friend from being embarrassed. Some ethical theories provide you with real guidance.   But virtue ethics doesn’t. It just says, â€Å"Do what a virtuous person would do† which isn’t much use.Morality is concerned, among other things, with praising and blaming people for how they behave.   But what sort of character a person has is to quite a large extent a matter of luck.   People have a natural temperament: either brave or timid, passionate or reserved, confident or cautious. It is hard to alter these inborn traits. Moreover, the circumstances in which a person is raised is another factor that shapes their moral personality but which is beyond their control.   So virtue ethics tends to bestow praise and blame on people for just being fortunate. Naturally, virtue ethicists believe they can answer these objections. But even the critics who put them forward would probably agree that the revival of virtue ethics in recent times has enriched moral philosophy and broadened its scope in a healthy way.