Leaving

1. Nowadays, many immigrants have moved to America(north, central, and south) for many reasons, searching for a fresh start. My family was one of them. I was born in Egypt and lived there for six years of my life. My family’s decision to immigrate to Canada was basically for my future. At that time, the state of the Egyptian government was very unstable, the economy was poor and there were many problems between Christians and Muslims in the country. Also, the education system in Egypt is not one of the best in the world. So, thinking of my future, my parents decided to immigrate to Canada. I have been living here for 12 years now. My country will always be the best to my eyes but I have to say my place is in Canada. In one’s life, it is highly likely that one will hear somebody say â€Å"I've been lucky to have some great opportunities acting with some great people since leaving my country† or â€Å" I have certainly been kept busy since leaving the street! † talking about how much his life is better in another country. In M. G. Vassanji’s short story, â€Å"Leaving† we followed the plot which took place in Tanzania in the 21st century. The story gives a clear representation of immigrant’s lives, their motives and their most dominant struggles. The story can be perceived from many different angles with the use of context, the character’s evolution, the language used and the plot. The origin of â€Å" Uhuru Street† and more specifically of â€Å"Leaving† has much to do with the origin of M. G. Vassanji. Vassanji is a Canadian writer of Indian identity. He was born in Kenya and spent his early years in the south of Asia, in Tanzania. In his written pieces, he concentrates on the situation of south Asians living in Africa. There, we can already see a direct link of vassanji’s life and the people he writes about. Much like Aloo in â€Å"Leaving†, he even received a scholarship to the university of Massachusetts. In his stories, Vassanji analyzes the lives of those people, which are affected by the several migrations. The short story that I chose takes place in Tanzania, Africa. It involves an Indian family living in Africa dealing with the possibility of migration of one of the sons to America and how this could affect his and his whole family’s life. In the story, the son is helped by his family to go to university in America. The mother suffers because she is a widow who raised four children and has trouble letting her son go. â€Å"Leaving† mainly talks about the leaving of the place where our roots are, nowing that everything will change. M. G Vassanji’s style is very unique. It is rather simple and direct combining real life events with heart-felt emotions, nationalities and historical facts. This author had many motives and purposes in writing this story. First of all, this story is a reproduction of a part of his experience because he went through the same life issues as Aloo did. Secondly, the story is a representation of the fears of Indians and immigrants in general. In â€Å"Leaving†, the mother fears that her son will loose a part of his heritage, living in a country where there is no link to it and where there is no daily practice of it and she risks loosing her son. She is also afraid of letting him go because of her protective nature and roots. Third of all, Vassanji intended to show the reader what immigrants go through, what their values are and how they live. Aloo’s motive for leaving Africa even though he was not accepted in the program he applied for says a lot about the living conditions of immigrants to Africa. 2. A)The story is about the life of an Indian family of a widow mother, her two daughters and two sons living in Africa. At the beginning, we learn that the two daughters have gotten married and the mother misses them. Aloo’s mother, as we remark, places all her hope in her son Aloo hoping he will be a man with good opportunities followed by a bright future. Aloo and the narrator are the youngest of 4 children, 2 boys and 2 girls, raised by their widow mother. We learn as we read the story that the daughters are married and out of their mother’s house. This leaves a large burden on the mother’s shoulders as she starts feeling emotions of loneliness. One day, the family sells their store and move from Uhuru Street to Upanga, which was described as peaceful and quiet. During Aloo’s graduate year, he goes on a life changing fieldtrip with a former professor back from abroad. His chat with the professor was the turning point that made Aloo get courage to apply to an American university. In reaction to this desire, Aloo’s mother humored the boy, feeling this was a waste of time. she did not want to get his hopes up only to see them shattered afterwards. When the character finally receives the letter from the California institute of technology, Aloo learns he has been accepted in the agriculture program. Aloo initially wanted to go into medicine and had gotten accepted in the local university of Tanzania. Mother, surprised by the news, kept trying to put Aloo down to protect him and keep him from leaving telling him they did not have enough money. She also joked about how some of his uncles in America would help with financial aid. When Aloo kept insisting, they all decided to confide in an old friend, Mr. Velji. Mr. Velji was very impressed by Aloo’s straight A average and said that it would be a good opportunity and a good experience for the young man. Mother had a hard time letting her son go but ended up doing it to make him happy. The final passage of the story is a letter from Aloo written from London telling his family how much London is a beautiful place and sharing his wonderful experience with them. All the events that happened in the plot are a brief explanation of the passage. First, the event of the mother’s letting her other son, the narrator, go to America foreshadowed that she would have problems letting Aloo go as well but that she would finally let him leave. Second, when Aloo started having hope to go to America and was determined to go, foreshadows the fact that he would expect so much from his trip and would change during this trip as we read in the passage. Third of all, when the mother chose to ask Mr. Velji’s opinions about Aloo’s departure, we could see that she knew what she was doing. She knew that, with his experience from going to America himself, he would be able to judge the situation wisely. This can be related to the character’s evolution in the passage. 2. B) We can see that, in this specific passage, two characters have evolved: Aloo and the mother. In the beginning of the story, the reader’s perception of Aloo is a young adult chasing after his dream of getting into the medicine program. He was viewed as an excellent student with a straight â€Å"A† average. When he receives the letter from the university of California back and finds out he was accepted, he decides he would go to the university because of the fact that he was an Indian being accepted and welcomed by many fraternities in an American university. we can see that his acceptance was a very unusual thing happening because of the discrimination that exists in America nowadays towards immigrants. This event marked the start of his evolution. The passage itself is a letter written by Aloo to his family from London, where e had stopped to visit a friend, telling them how the places he has visited are so different and so beautiful. This passage can have many interpretations. Aloo can be simply sharing a wonderful experience with his mother and siblings or he could be telling them that finally he is living and that what he used to live in Asia is not good enough. In London, he felt as if he was in a world of freedom and opportunities and that Asia was a prison that he escaped from. The second character to whom we can associate a certain evolution in the passage of the short story â€Å"Leaving† is Aloo’s mother. Throughout the beginning of the story up to the middle, the mother had been rather neutral about Aloo’s going away to university. She did not want to encourage him because of many reasons. First of all, she knew that being of Indian origin, he would probably have more trouble than Americans in getting into the university. She did not want to get his hopes up and then see all of his dreams shattered because of the discrimination that exists in the U. S. A. Secondly, she knew that if he ever was accepted and did go away to university, he would probably like his life there more than his life in dare s salam and therefore would not think about coming back. On the other hand, she also was afraid that he would loose a part of his Indian identity if he went to another country and changed his way of living. Basically, in all of the preceding reasons, the mother just wants to protect her child from the outside world that she knows nothing about. Then, in the second half of the story, the mother’s behavior and view concerning Aloo’s departure slowly starts changing. Her love for her son, her protective ways and seeing her son’s dreams being shattered when she tells him that he will not be leaving make her start to see that she needs to learn to let go. In the passage, after the mother has read Aloo’s letter, she stares into the distance. She stares into the distance because she sees what she feared happening in front of her eyes. At this point, we see that she is still worried about her child especially after her interpretation of the words in his letter, but she is ready to accept what life brings him and let him build the bases of his own life. I think time is the wisest counselor for her. 2. d) In the passage, there is a sentence that has a rather hidden meaning from Aloo’s point of view. Vassanji wrote, â€Å"Even the mountains are clean and civilized†. This part of the phrase means that Aloo is criticizing his old life, the life with his mother and siblings in Tanzania as to say that he has finally reached what is the real civilization. He is basically showing them that he is finally in a better place when he never even imagined of going there until a few months before. Vassanji wrote: â€Å"Aloo’s first letter came a week after he left, from London where he’d stopped over to see a former classmate. It flowed over with excitement. How can I describe it,’ he wrote, ‘the sight from the plane†¦mile upon mile of carefully tilled fields, the earth divided into neat green squares†¦even the mountains are clean and civilized. And London†¦Oh London! It seemed that it would never end†¦blocks and blocks of houses, squares, parks, monuments†¦could any city be larger?†¦ How many of our Dar es Salaams would fit here , in this one gorgeous city†¦? A bird flapping its wings: Mr Velji nodding wisely in his chair, Mother staring into the distance. † 3. As I mentioned before, this specific passage, can be viewed in two ways. The most obvious one is that Aloo’s letter is simply a way of expressing his wonderful experience and sharing this happy moment with his family with no other intention. This interpretation is a rather innocent interpretation of Aloo’s character in the way that he is sharing his excitement of seeing things he has never even imagined before. The other decipherment of this passage is an unfavorable one. The view is that Aloo wrote the letter as a criticism of the Asian lifestyle and as a method of telling his family how he is in a better place and has a better life. Some may even read the mother’s reaction of staring into the distance as a selfish one. The mother would be thinking about how her son has left her and went to a better place after all she did for him. She might even be jealous of the fact that her son has many opportunities that she never got to have as a young adult. Of course she is happy that he gets to go and chase after his dreams but she is sad at the idea that he chose his dreams over his mother. 4. With the use of context, character’s evolution and plot, we can see that this passage has a large variety of interpretations. Aloo’s words are either perceived as innocent and good or selfish and bad. He could be writing to his family to share a wonderful, breathtaking experience or he could be writing to tell them how much life in Africa is a prison and how he has finally found the real life. Either way, the most important aspect of this passage is the fact that Aloo left his a country that resembled his own and people who are like him to go towards the unknown. What are his motives for doing so? The predominant incitement for this choice is the fact that he is an Indian boy being accepted and highly welcomed by several fraternities to the university. This was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity because the Indians and immigrants in general, from what we understand from the story, were discriminated against at that time in America. Etymology of words: Green: â€Å"O. E. grene, earlier groeni, related to O. E. growan â€Å"to grow,† from W. Gmc. *gronja- (cf. O. Fris. grene, O. N. gr? nn, Dan. gron, Du. groen, Ger. grun), from PIE base *gro- â€Å"grow,† through sense of â€Å"color of living plants. † The color of jealousy at least since Shakespeare (1596); â€Å"Greensleeves,† ballad of an inconstant lady-love, is from 1580. Meaning of â€Å"a field, grassy place† was in O. E. Sense of â€Å"of tender age, youthful† is from 1412; hence â€Å"gullible† (1605). Greenhorn (containing the sense of â€Å"new, fresh, recent†) was first â€Å"young horned animal† (1455), then â€Å"recently enlisted soldier† (1650), then â€Å"any inexperienced person† (1682). Green light in figurative sense of â€Å"permission† is from 1937. Green and red as signals on railways first attested 1883, as nighttime substitutes for semaphore flags. Green beret originally â€Å"British commando† is from 1949. Green room â€Å"room for actors when not on stage† is from 1701; presumably a well-known one was painted green. †[1] Block solid piece,† c. 1305, from O. Fr. bloc â€Å"log, block,† via M. Du. bloc â€Å"trunk of a tree† or O. H. G. bloh, both from PIE *bhlugo-, from *bhel â€Å"a thick plank, beam. † Slang sense of â€Å"head† is from 1635. The meaning in city block is 1796 , from the notion of a â€Å"compact mass† of buildings; slang meaning â€Å"fashionable promenade† is 1869. Extended sense of â€Å"obstruction† is first recorded 1649. The verb â€Å"to obstruct† is from 1570. Blockhead â€Å"stupid person† (1549) was originally a head-shaped oaken block used by hat-makers. Blockade first used 1680, with false Fr. ending (the Fr. word is blocus). Blockhouse is c. 500, of unknown origin. † Flappig/Fly â€Å"†to soar through air,† O. E. fleogan (class II strong verb; past tense fleag, pp. flogen), from W. Gmc. *fleuganan (cf. O. H. G. fliogan, O. N. flugja, M. Du. vlieghen, Ger. fliegen), from PIE *pleu- â€Å"flowing, floating† (cf. Lith. plaukiu â€Å"to swim†). The O. E. plural in -n (cf. oxen) gradually normalized 13c. -15c. to -s. Notion of â€Å"flapping as a wing does† led to sense of â€Å"tent flap† (1810), which yielded (1844) â€Å"covering for buttons that close up a garment. † Flying buttress is from 1669. Fly-fishing (from fly (n. )) is from 1653; while flying fish is from c. 511. Flying saucer first attested 1947, though the image of saucers for unidentified flying objects is from at least 1880s. Flying Dutchman ghost ship first recorded c. 1830, in Jeffrey, Baron de Reigersfeld's â€Å"The Life of a Sea Officer. † Slang phrase fly off the handle â€Å"lose one's cool† dates from 1825. On the fly is 1851. Flying colors (1706) is probably from the image of a naval vessel with the national flag bravely displayed. † Distance â€Å"c. 1290, from O. Fr. destance, from L. distantia â€Å"a standing apart,† from distantem (nom. distans) â€Å"standing apart, separate, distant,† prp. f distare â€Å"stand apart,† from dis- â€Å"apart, off† + stare â€Å"to stand† (see stet). The figurative sense is the same as in stand-offish. Phrase go the distance (1930s) seems to be origina lly from boxing. † Plane â€Å"flat surface,† 1604, from L. plantum â€Å"flat surface,† properly neut. of adj. planus â€Å"flat, level, plain, clear,† from PIE *pla-no- (cf. Lith. plonas â€Å"thin;† Celtic *lanon â€Å"plain;† perhaps also Gk. pelanos â€Å"sacrificial cake, a mixture offered to the gods, offering (of meal, honey, and oil) poured or spread†), suffixed form of base *pele- â€Å"to spread out, broad, flat† (cf. O. C. S. polje â€Å"flat land, field,† Rus. polyi â€Å"open;† O. E. , O. H. G. feld, M. Du. veld â€Å"field†). Fig. sense is attested from 1850. The verb meaning â€Å"soar, glide on motionless wings† is first recorded 1611, from M. Fr. planer (16c. ), from L. planum on notion of bird gliding with flattened wings. Of boats, etc. , â€Å"to skim over the surface of water† it is first found 1913. † Maps [pic] [pic] Ramatan Abdel-Maksoud Analysis of â€Å"Leaving† 603-103-04 David Fielding March 6th 2009 ———————– [1] http://www. Etymonline. com (all etymologies of words)

Function and Role of Law in Business and Society

Functions and Roles of Law in Business and Society Patricia Hackley LAW 421 April 15, 2013 C. J. Hughes Abstract A review of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the Code of Conduct will be discussed for a better understanding of it role in business. Businesses have operated for years but the interest lies in the development of and reasons for code of conduct; with the Constitution and Bill of Rights identifying the rights of the companies and the people. According to CFA Institute, â€Å"Code of Ethics were first created in the 1960’s†.It is the result of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that promoted businesses to hire equal opportunity officers, to ensure compliance with the new law (â€Å"A History of Business Ethics†, 2012). The U. S. Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 enforced the mandates and the Environmental Protection Act forced businesses to internalize the cost of discharging toxic effluent (Ibid). In 1977, The U. S. Government enacted the For eign Corrupt Practices Act to control actions of U. S. corporations overseas as a result of a series of scandals involving bribery. In an attempt to address public outcry to get out of South Africa, a group of U.S. companies adopted the Sullivan Principles. It was also hoped that South Africa would change due to these principles. By 1980, most companies in South Africa had started adopting ethical codes and training their employees (Ibid). The Responsible Care was developed as a result of a chemical disaster in India in 1984 and in 1986, the Defense Industry Initiative on Business Ethics and Conduct had written code of ethics, provided training to employees, established monitoring systems, shared best practices and became accountable to the public, due to defense contract irregularities.The 1991 U. S, Federal Sentencing Guidelines for Corporations provided incentives to corporation that incorporated ethical structures. If the company could show they had taken steps to address the et hical behavior of the company, the fines would be reduced, if found guilty. The most significant legislation to date is the 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley Act which was initiated as a result of scandals involving Enron, Arthur Andersen and other corporations.It requires CEO and CFO to certify fairness and accuracy of financial statements and code of ethics for senior financial officers along with public disclosure. The United States developed a voluntary Global Compact for Corporations, with over 1,500 companies worldwide joining, have nine guiding principles including labor standards, human rights and environmental protection. The Community Services Bureau, were I worked as a Site Supervisor, were governed by Federal, State and local laws, along with guidelines from our funding sources.We had annual Code of Conduct training and signing of a new amendment. Middle management and staff were members of the local union that provided arbitration, in the event of employee dispute, or ratify a new co ntract. Now we are acquainted with the development of business ethical conduct, we can make a correlation with the Constitution and Bill of Rights in the puzzle of function and role in business and society. The Constitution’s Bill of Rights, which include the first ten articles in the Constitution, brings us to the established boundaries of jurisdiction.Congress, under Article I of the Constitution, has the power to regulate commerce, tax the citizens and commercial entities and the spending government funds, bankruptcy, patents, and copyrights and make all laws necessary to carry out its powers under the Constitution. (Melvin, 2011). Under the Executive branch, the President carries out laws, the commander in chief to the armed forces and enters into treaties, pending Senate approval, and appoint federal officers and judges, also requiring Senate approval.Under the Judiciary branch, cases and controversies are decided under federal jurisdiction. The Judicial Review is the ul timate judge of federal constitutional law under the U. S. Supreme Court. (Melvin, 2011). In 1803, the Court ruled that the Constitution was higher than federal and state statutes, the conflicts between the Constitution and federal or state law, the Court has the authority to strike it down as unconstitutional. This authority can be found under Article III, Section 2 of the Constitution.The standards established classifies these actions in three categories: rational basis, intermediate-level scrutiny or strict scrutiny (Melvin, 2011). The Commerce Clause enables Congress to regulate Commerce among several states. It channels interstate commerce such as railways, vehicles used in shipping and articles moved in interstate commerce. The Bill of Rights First, Fourth, Fifth and Eighth Amendments are directly addressing businesses. The First Amendment guarantees the freedom of speech, press and the right to peacefully assemble.In business, the first amendment provides partial protection p rovided the speech is truthful and concerned a lawful activity; State cannot limit the free flow of information to consumers. To address these concerns and others, a four-part test framework was created to decide if certain regulations were constitutional: commercial speech in advertising, with no political implications. If regulations were constitutional, they passed all four parts of the test. Political speech has full First Amendment protection. The Fourth Amendment protects citizen rights to be secure in their person’s, houses, papers and effects.To secure a search warrant they must demonstrate probable cause or if they have cause for administrative violations they must have an administrative warrant to gain access to worksites for compliance inspections. The Fifth Amendment protects individuals from being compelled to be a witness against themselves. The business aspect of the Fifth Amendment allows individuals to remain silent during investigations and court proceedings . The Fourteenth Amendment protects individuals from being deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law and includes restrictions and actions by state governments.The Due Process Clause has certain procedural requirements and that laws passed must be published for inspection by the public and be specific so the individual understands how the law applies. The Equal Protection Clause prohibits government from denying citizens’ equal protection of the law. It is interesting that the Bill of Rights has not been amended since it was established in 1866 and it continues to provide citizens with the rights, due process and establishment of laws to govern the ever increasing industry of business.Functions and Roles of Law in Business and Society References Code of Ethics & Standards of Professional Conduct. (2013). Retrieved from http://www. cfainstitute. org/ethics/codes/ethics/Pages/index. aspx A History of Business Ethics. (2012). Retrieved from http://www. scu . edu/ethics/practicing/focusareas/business/conference/presentations/business-ethics-history. html Melvin, S. P. (2011). The Legal Environment of Business: A Managerial Approach: Theory to Practice. Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection.

United Health Group and the Health Reform Policy Essay

United Health Group and the Health Reform Policy - Essay Example United Health Group and the Health Reform Policy The group strives to provide all people an access to quality health care. The passing of the health care reform act is one of the events that have had measurable effects on the majority of American health insurance industry. This paper will analyze the activities of the group, its strengths, and weaknesses and highlight how health insurance reforms will affect the group’s standing. The united health group operations fall under two main categories. These include the united health care and optum. Under each of these activities, there are distinct business units that define the services offered by united health group. United health care employer and individual unit offers a comprehensive package of health benefit plans specific for the public sector, individuals, employers, and educational institutions. In addition, the united health care Medicare and retirement unit strives to provide Americans aged 50 years and above with health security through preventive services and chronic disease management. Moreover, the united health care community and state unit strives to provide societies and communities to care for those facing economical hardships and those without employer-funded health insurance. On the other hand, optum health strives to enhance the well-being of people in society by offering health management plans that help people live healthier lives. In addition, optum insight offers information concerning the health care sector in society. Optumrx helps in delivering customer prescriptions and integrated pharmacy services. The united group provides such a wide range of health care services in the United States and additional 33 countries. ... For consecutive years, it has managed to remain a dominant leader in the market. Being a leader in the market, the health group has a shorter sales system in the market because vast awareness of its services in the market. In addition, leadership in the market earns the group loyalty from clients. United health group has earned publicity in the United States and is a preferable choice for many people. The fact that united health group has diversified services is an additional strength. The group can make profits from a vast range of services. In addition, the group registers a great financial performance in the health insurance sector. Weaknesses The united health group has several weaknesses that serve to give its competitors an advantage in the market. Statistics show that the company has numerous debts. Being in debt places unwanted pressure on the group because it has to ensure a continuous flow of cash to enable it pay the debts. In addition, debt brings along numerous restricti ons to the group, negatively affecting its operations. Indebtedness affects the company’s financial stability placing it in an unfavorable position in the market. In addition, stock option practices have often affected the company’s reputation in the market. Reports indicate that the company has indulged in unfavorable stock practices affecting its operations (EBSCO Publishing, 2011). The signature of the health care reform act by president Obama had an impact on the insurance sector. The reform introduces a form of regulation by the government, a factor that affects the growth in the industry. The group has the privilege to run the Medicaid insurance plan, which is a contract from the government. The reform requires an increase of the

Essay 1 com 3010 media analysis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

1 com 3010 media analysis - Essay Example stand that the main focus is the international news and in this case it is about the US soldiers who had been held captive in Afghanistan being received by their families back home. President Obama is on the forefront in receiving the soldiers who had been held captive together with their families. It is easy to identify this story as the main story under attention due to the visuals. The picture of a Taliban sergeant is the most attractive and outstanding visual in both websites. The websites have managed to attract the audience’s attention by asking questions like, â€Å"who is Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl? This is for the case of CNN news (Hume). On the other hand, Fox news drops the bombshell and posts their top story as, â€Å"Taliban exchange POW for five Gitmo detainees† (OReilly). It is evident that these two posts are attractive and also synonymous by the fact of the picture of the Taliban Sgt. For the audience the main aim of reading this story would be to find out why this sergeant is so important that he is traded with five US soldiers? In addition to this, both websites have provided video links where audiences are able to watch the news live and follow it also on other social media like Facebook, Twitter and the rest. Besides that it is also important to note that both websites have all the other news ranging from sports, weather, market, and even entertainment. For example, both websites have their top focus in sport news related to the preparation of the FIFA World cup that is just about to start in Brazil. Most importantly to note is that these websites have got very little space to report on the local news. Most of the focus has been directed to international news happening all over the world. It is also worth noting that these websites have provided the audience with a chance to choose different languages which they feel suits them well. In addition to this, other links such as the radio live options have also been made available. Despite so many

Cal report week 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Cal report week 3 - Essay Example These were named as radical humanism or subjective change ; radical structuralism which is to do with the many conflicts in society; interpretive sociology which deals with the interpretation of society ; and functionalist sociology which sees society as consisting of many interacting parts. It was discovered within the group how these ideas all relate to learning and knowledge within organizations, and also how they could be applied to particular difficulties. The various paradigms can be utilized individually or more than one can used at one time. To add a greater degree of understanding and the ability to apply these ideas metaphors can be used as shown by Morgan in 1980 and later by Hassard ( 1991) It is necessary to choose those which best fit our particular circumstances and reflect on them. As I took part in the week 3 learning group I began to discover how my the structure of my company fits into the various models of management research and how to use that knowledge in order to create the most applicable knowledge. I am now attempting to fit the paradigms to my work situation and see how compatible the two are. Also , using the right language , as described by Van Maanen (1991) will make it easier to produce convincing arguments.  Together with the use of metaphor this will help me to produce suitable solutions for my organization. The main aim this week was to be able to turn theories into practice. This means translating the models into actual work tasks and, by using the correct knowledge creation , enabling the most beneficial decisions to be made. HASSARD,J. 1991, Mulitple Paradigmsand Organizational Analysis : A Case Study, Organization Studies, 12 ( 2) pages 275-299, EBSCOhost, available from http:web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.liv.ac.uk/ehost/detail?hid=105&sid=446561bf-3152-405d-87fd-f6972fd2d38e%40sessionmgr115&vid=5&data=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGI2ZzY29wZT1zaXRI#db=buh&AN=593166, accessed 25th July 2011 MORGAN,G. 1980, Paradigms, metaphors and

Essay on Finance Articles Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

On Finance Articles - Essay Example To fulfil Doha's mission to alleviate global poverty, the developed world must at the minimum, be prepared to waive tariffs and quotas on exports from countries officially declared least developed. However, they are loath to do so due to domestic compulsions. Studies carried out by the World bank show that if tariffs and quotas were to be totally done away with, it could "boost income in developing countries by $86 bn and pull an extra 30 million people out of poverty". However, the models used by the World bank do not factor in all possible variables and hence the figures are debatable, some other models for example predict a reduction in poverty by 2% for every 1% increase in income, but with globally variable distribution patterns. The Doha talks also suffer from a misplaced sense of priorities. In concentrating only on slashing tariffs in the agriculture sector, it is focussing its efforts on the one area where it is least likely to have any positive impact on the economies' of the least developed countries. It is felt that if subsidies are removed, world food prices will rise, hurting the consumers, the majority of whom are in the least developed countries. ... This is a major achievement in itself. For a change, the developing and least developed countries have a forum in which to voice their legitimated grievances. Partnerships between countries such as between China - Brazil - India have also highlighted the growing clout of these emerging economies and their willingness to stand up to the developed world to counter what they perceive as 'economic imperialism'. References The Economist, December 10th 2005, pp 75-76. ARTICLE 2 - NEW FRIENDSHIPS AND PETROPUZZLES China's unquestionable thirst for oil in the world market is well known, as it seeks to sustain a booming economy, with China's oil demand shooting up by 15% in 2005. A major share of China's oil supplies come from Saudi Arabia and the interdependence between China and Saudi Arabia is evident from the fact that King Abdullah's first official trip outside the Middle East was not to the United Sates but to China. A growing economy should have resulted in a corresponding growing demand for oil. However, China once again confounded al experts by disclosing that its oil demand fell by 0.2% in 2005. Other experts, however, scoff at these figures and maintain that demand actually rose by between 6.4% and 8% in line with economic trends. If China's figures were to be believed, then the OPEC might have to consider cutting production in order to maintain oil prices, even though parallel events in Nigeria and Iran fuelled speculations about a possible rise in oil prices. In Nigeria, attacks by militants resulted in a decrease in production by about 200,000 barrels per day (bpd). Iran's nuclear ambitions and threats to cut production in the face of

Project Management 8 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Project Management 8 - Essay Example Change process always aims at improving the operations of business organizations. Correction of spelling error in the name of products is very important because it ensures that customers do not get confused or doubtful when purchasing our products. Correct spelling creates an idea that the company pays attention to details in all aspects of making products. Quality of products must be assured through the correct and accurate packaging; packaging is very important because it is what the customer analyzes first when purchasing a product, therefore, all packaging characteristics including the spellings must be correct (Western Electric Company, 2007). The quality assurance department should be strengthened with adequate technical knowledge; this is because the department is tasked with ensuring flawless production processes; from raw material acquisition, product manufacturing, and finally packaging. The employees of Winsome must be encouraged to ensure production of superior products t hrough the spirit of teamwork; which ensures effective achievement of overall product objectives. The production process should be automated to ensure consistency in quality of products. The change process will have an immediate implication in the financial budget. This is because the change programs will utilize financial resources. Correcting the spelling errors on the packages will involve producing new and correct packages which is a costly affair. Setting up an effective quality assurance sector can involve the hiring of quality experts; hence the wage bill will increase (Shewhart, 2011). Effective human relation approaches ensures sound working relations among employees, and also teamwork. Employees should not threaten to report coworkers to superior; any mistake in the production process should be discussed (Feigenbaum, 2009). This is where teamwork comes in because employees work together in solving

Environment Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 9500 words

Environment Management - Essay Example Now environment watch agencies call upon the companies to make an 'environment audit' along with their annual financial figures. In fact, a 'green business' is not only good for the environment and humanity but good for business's bottom line as well, because it gives an opportunity to the enterprise for managing the waste, cutting costs on wasteful expenditure, conserving energy and preserving the natural balance. This results in; Care of environment is not a 'project' in isolation, it has to be a mission and the zeal must be seen in all parts of business right from constructing the building to the final output packaging and transportation etc. Globalization has also necessitated the need for uniformity in dealing with regulations concerning environment. Now encouragement is given to industries, which favor gas over coal and oil, as it lessens the possibility of acid rain and ozone layer depletion. Environmental regulations are being accordingly changed with a futuristic view on sustainable development and safeguarding environment (Bishop et al, 1994) According to the Manual for Managing a Responsible Business Enterprise (RBE) in emerging market economies, prepared by the US Department of Commerce (2004), an RBE is characterized by responsible business conduct at four different levels of its identity as an enterprise. These four levels are: 1. Compliance with the law 2. Risk management 3. Reputation enhancement 4. Value added to the community This conduct is determined by the business conduct of its owners, managers, employees, agents and other stakeholders of the company. The businesses operate within a complex system of interests and influences. Stakeholders all have power, someone has a formal power invested in a position of authority or it could be the social power of being able to persuade others to support or oppose the policies of the company. Therefore, these stakeholders play a crucial role in devising ethical functioning for the company. At times, companies tend to pass on a product whose use might damage the environment, stating that they are resorting to such sales owing to market demands. But, the customer asks for the product only because s/he hasn't sent the alternative product yet. Since the tried and tested product has been offering value for money, fulfilling the needs, therefore there is a demand for it. But once the alternative is there and customer is allowed to compare the features and values, s/he m ight be willing to pay for it as well. Peter Drucker (1986) the management guru said, "It is the customer who determines what a business is. For, it is the customer and he alone through being willing to pay for a good or service, converts economic resources into wealth, things into goods." Corporate governance structures and styles vary in the environment they

Describing demonstrative communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Describing demonstrative communication - Essay Example Thus, the essay will describe demonstrative communication by presenting its clear definition, the various ways through which it is conveyed and demonstrate how it can be effective and ineffective as well as positive and negative. The essay will also demonstrate how demonstrative communication involves listening and responding. According to Sonneborn (2012), demonstrative communication is the process of transmitting information using actions and human attributes that partake common significance and arouse particular meanings to others. Therefore, it is conveyed using various options which include; kinesics and visual cues such as facial expressions, eye movements, gestures and body movements; vocal cues which include; tone of voice, volume, and pitch variation; and proxemics traits involving space and distance during communication. It can also be conveyed through traits such as appearance, smell, color and time just to mention a few. It is estimated that 93 percent of the overall communication process involves demonstrative communication. Thus, it is used in a wide range of functions during communication which include; (1) contradicting verbal messages, which is mainly observed when the information being conveyed is in contradiction with the body movements being observed. (2) Emphasizing information being forwarded by the word of mouth. (3) Regulating interactions among individuals by demonstrating who should speak next. And (4) substituting some of the verbal words used to convey particular information. With that said demonstrative communication can be effective or ineffective depending on the context in which it is displayed. It is referred as effective whenever the listener is able to decode the nonverbal cues efficiently and obtain the required meaning put across. In return, this enables individuals to resolve conflicts, display affection, and build on trust and respect amongst themselves (Sonneborn, 2012). For instance, an

A Fast Way to a Fast Food Essay Example for Free

A Fast Way to a Fast Food Essay According to a recent survey, the UK is particularly fond of fast food. Many people turn to fast food as it is quick, convenient, and relatively cheap even though there are many concerns over public health and obesity. With a large number of fast food chains available, how do likes of McDonald’s, Subway, and Pret. A merger maintain their market share at a time when people are cutting back on their spending? In the 10 largest UK cities, the number of fast-food outlets increased by 8,2 percent, to 1. 456 in 2009 (the highest growth occurred in London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow). Among the UK’s biggest chains, Subway grew faster than others. The number of Subway restaurants increased by 25,9 percent to 734 in 2009. In the same year, Domino’s pizza (DPZ) increased its outlets by 19,8 percent to 260 and E A T increased its outlets by 17,8 percent to 86. The growth of these chains is considered as a success particularly when competing against other giant chains such as McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, and Wimpy’s. Although fast food chains provide quick and efficient service, their operation models are different. In the traditional model, like Mc Donald’s, customers enter the restaurant, study the menu panels for a short period, and stand in the shortest line (behind the many counters). When the customer reaches the front of the line, he or she places an order, pays at the register, and collects the food within few minutes. When, a customer requests a nonstandard item, for example a burger with no tomatoes or extra bacon and cheese, the order is not available in the prestocked food area. The counterperson calls the order in to the production area. The item is then prepared to order as a priority. The waiting time is a bit longer in this case. Not all fast food chains in the UK follow the same customer service operational model. They have tried some innovative ideas to serve customers quicker and have more options and flexibility. In Subway, sandwich is prepared right in front of the customer, where the customer can select what type of bread, size, and sandwich fillings. The sandwich is normally ready in a couple of minutes and passed to the customer as soon as the customer pays for the food. Domino’z Pizza offers home delivery for a wide range of its pizzas, which can be personalized as well, in less than 20 minutes, while it does not charge for the delivery. Pizza Hut offers an open buffet as part of its service, to reduce the workload on its staff and give its customers more options with less price. In Pret A Manger and EAT, a set of sandwiches, salads, and desserts are assembled each day and stocked in the front of the shop where the customers select and pay for their meals. The stock level is then replenished during the day in line with demand. The aim is to continually meet the high quality and freshness standards. If any of the product assembled that day have not sold by the time the store closes, they are given to local charities rather than being stored and sold the following day.

Theories of Juvenile Delinquency

Theories of Juvenile Delinquency Jump to: Literature Review Social Disorganization Theory Strain/Institutional Anomie Theory Sub-cultural Theory of Juvenile Delinquency Theory of Educational Disabilities Family Influence Critical Theories for Juvenile Delinquency The Kaplan Theory on Self-esteem as Delinquent Factor Feminist Theory of Juvenile Delinquency Introduction Juvenile delinquency for a long time has remained a debatable topic among psychologists, criminologists, and even sociologists. Many opposing and concurring arguments have been experienced with many researchers concentrating on real cause, which can be explained using different theories ranging from the classical to contemporary ones. Agnew (2005, p. 16) states that there is need to have different and flexible theoretical views on causes of these crimes which is mainly necessitated by the changed ways of living, which has greatly influenced the socio-cultural status of many modern societies. Many theorists have come up with different explanations seeking to investigate these trends in juvenile crime. Some have associated it with factors such as race, gender, poverty that is depicted by poor socio-economic status. Other theorist associate it with childhood events such as sexual abuse or even other forms of physical abuse likely to have been experienced by an individual. Peer group influence has also provided a large surface area for juvenile crimes to thrive of thus quite a number of available theories are associated to this in a greater way. Authorities have also bee associated with juvenile crimes as they drive the criminal justice systems (Agnew, 2005, p. 27). This affects the way the young people view them and any actions by the authorities automatically affect the reception given to them by young offenders. This paper seeks to look into the social based theories that explain juvenile delinquency both in traditional and modern or advanced perspective. Some of the most considerable theories include the feminist theory, social disorganization theory, strain theory, sub-cultural, and educational theories among others. It is worthy to note that some of the emerging theories are not yet official as they are formulated from the preexisting ones and therefore cannot be treated as autonomous. Modern studies on juvenile delinquency have found these factors influential enough in juvenile delinquency thus describing them as contemporary theories (HÃ…Â n-su HyÃ…Â n-sil 2008, p. 39). A good example is educational abilities of some victims of this kind of crimes. However, these theories can still be associated with the traditional ones in one way or the other. Literature review Juvenile delinquency is one of the major fields of modern criminal studies that are ongoing. Closer analysis of this phenomenon has been summarized by various theorists, which have been put up by different scholars (Esbensen, et al, 1993. P. 33). Well being of a society is the most important factor that predetermines the rate of juvenile crime. Merton suggested that it is the role of the society to instill collective and positive aspirations of a society into it members and ensure this is continuous. However, when many people especially adolescents are obstructed from achieving their aspirations, they switch to crime meaning that they prefer use of illegal and forceful means to achieve what is expected of them. Behavior among the teenage population has attracted a lot of interest with many studies being done on the same in recent years. Between 1935- 1955, the Minnesota multiphasic personality inventory, a group of researchers made very robust attempts to understand teenage behavior in relation to crime (71). Kvaraceus scale of study formulated in the year 1952 was used in predicting juvenile behavior in the united states enabling tremendous growth in attempts to asses both psychological and social factors that influence adolescents to commit crime (Xiaogang Lening 2008, p. 112). This tool utilizes a set of multiple-choice questions that help in the predictions of an individuals behavior when answered by the person being tested and analyzed by a professional. Kvaraceus found out that delinquent children had had very significant differences with others in maters pertaining academic aptitude, family relations, truancy records, school attendance and perceptions on the two main genders. Xiaogang Lening (2008, p. 119) further reveals that delinquent children posed a negative response for these maters with 65 percent expressing total discomfort when in class learning, implying that they were not interested that much in attending school. Delinquent fellows also reported to have experience a fo rm of racial abuse by those that they felt were unfairly biased. The US criminal justice system has shown that seventy percent of all children in juvenile correctional facilities have one or more educational disabilities. These children happen to pose lower grades than their fellow children hence only thirty-five percent of all disabled children make it up to graduation compared to all students rates that stand at 76 percent (Esbensen, et al, 1993. P. 58). These studies also showed that first crime among this group of students was committed before they leave high school. Studies in the United States have further proved that delinquent individuals suffered more violent abuse than non-delinquent peers (68). One in ten of serious juvenile offenders have reported to have in one way or the other undergone victimization as compared to one in ten of non-delinquent friends. Victimized individuals have been observed to be more violent and difficult to control due to the assumption that they are already spoilt (Coughlan, 2007, P. 9). They therefore prefer victimizing others in an attempt to find consolation for what previously happened to them (82). This sticks them in the world of crime in more of a permanent basis hence changing their habits become difficult. Being blended by the society as out cast also affect their abilities to reconsider their ways of living since they find the damage caused more irreparable. Bias such as ethnicity, race and economic status have been found to propel juvenile crimes even further. This is because social animosities among involved parties lead to adoption of false perceptions against the other groups (Agnew, 2005, p. 61). African Americans have been found to have higher numbers of juveniles under safe custody, which is associated with the racism that still, exist among the American society. Minorities have also been found to have more number of juveniles under safe custody. These populations may contribute very little to the total population of a country but the opposite is experienced when it comes to crime. In the United States for instance, the minority constituted only 32 percent of the total population in 1995 but sixty eight percent of the total juvenile population in custody were from these minority groups mainly the Negros, Latinos, and Hispanics. Social Disorganization Theory Developed by Clifford Shaw and McKay Henry in Chicago school, this theory closely relates juvenile delinquency to social disorganization of a society as dictated by the ecological aspects surrounding a society. They define social disorganization as the inability of a society to organize itself in a more socially acceptable manner that perpetuates harmony and the general social well being of a society because of ecological changes within a society (HÃ…Â n-su HyÃ…Â n-sil 2008, p. 71). For instance, a city may experience a massive relocation of its inhabitants who go ahead to establish other settlements within the vicinity thus ending up with informal settlements such as slums. People no longer live together as a cluster leading to emergency of new social classifications with low-income populations finding themselves together and vice versa. Such groups of people usually exhibit a higher population turnover leading to more crowding and eventually causing degradation of their economic empowerment implying that they will be poorer and weaker in tackling life (94). Youth from these poor neighborhoods tend to adopt immoral behavior, as they feel pressed by their socio-economic status well described as averagely low. Through the process of interacting, young people learn different behaviors from those within their neighborhoods and in most cases end up adopting the same behavior with time. Negative neighborhood ecological trends have been linked to higher crime rate among juveniles as social disorganization results in such clusters of communities that developed new social status especially with low-income populations (116). High population heterogeneity makes it difficult for such societies to come together and establish informal social structures. This means that there lacks uniformity within the society, dictating that a homogeneous society which can collectively adopt good moral values remain illusive. The young adults in such status will always get into criminal activities so easily as the socio-economic status does very little to prevent indulgence in criminal activities (128). Peer influence is the main vector that spreads such undesirable habits among the youth living in such neighborhoods because people of the same age do interact and learn from one another faster and more easily made to believe their friends more easily again raising juvenile delinquency. Strain/Institutional Anomie Theory Strain theory is also known as the social class or the Mertonian Anomie theory. An American sociologist named Robert Merton, who mainly used the American economic status as his platform for argument, came up with this theory in expounding more on juvenile delinquency (Coleta et al 2007). Americans had developed a culture that was filled with prospects for freedom, prosperity, and opportunity that he called the American dream. Merton used the term anomie to imply that the living standards of the people was like a dichotomous key subdivided in numerous hierarchical levels that dictates what was expected from them and what could actually be achieved by the people. This cloud of beliefs led to an increase in juvenile crimes when certain obstructions were encountered such as unequal social status and imbalanced availability of opportunities for all people (Esbensen Huizinga, 1993, p. 301). The society witness massive drop out from schools by the vulnerable youths with many citing this as means to enable them achieve what was expected of them by the society, using alternative methods which is through criminal activities. This theory is still relevant up to hitherto with many youths dropping into being gang members commonly known as hobos or drug abusers which enables them get the much expected social status through crimes such as robbery with violence. The strongest impact of this theory especially in adolescents is that they are informed of the American dream as early as possible with a lot of information on what is enjoyable thereafter. The society has however exposed a greater weakness in the sense that little emphasis are put on the legitimate means of how to achieve these dreams implying that the way one plays the game is not important but whether one wins or looses (317). Basing on this fact, many juveniles opt for illegal means to achieve what they are expected to, thus increasing their vulnerability to be victims of criminal activity and deviance from socially acceptable conduct as a result of crime. Subcultural Theory of Juvenile Delinquency According to Hà ¥Ã‚ n-su Hyà ¥Ã‚ n-sil (2008, p. 51) this theory is fetched from the fact that modern societies have demonstrated a culture of separation where discrete groups of people have fragmented away from the main society and established their own values and norms. These differential affiliations have introduced the culture of learning antisocial behaviors that are clearly defined by criminal studies as crime. Studies have shown that the most vulnerable group is the adolescents who mainly find it difficult to get along with the traditional ways of living. This has even gone to the extent of formation of cults which comer up with their own ways of living and governance (63). Crimes from this kind of clusters have been reported in many African states where most societies are ravaging in poverty. Since the youth are the most affected, juvenile crime have increased in places where this behavior is left to take course unabated as very young people learn crime easily. The Theory of Educational disabilities Although this factor is seen by many as not social, it has resulted into a very huge impact on the general social setups of the society as regarding these children who have problems with their studies. The American society is fond of labeling them as potential criminals basing on their inability to do better in class as Cullen Wright, (2002, p. 103) reveal. These children have a tendency to commit crimes because they are challenged mentally, and cannot use their rationale well in making decisions. The US government introduced the special education law back in 1975 with an aim of ensuring that this group of its citizens are well taken care of in matters pertaining education. However, school administrators have gone ahead to suspend and expel these children from school further intensifying the psychological burden they find themselves with when labeled as potential criminals by the society regardless of their mental abilities (Cullen Wright, 2002, p. 116). These children end up perceiving themselves as failures and loose hope in life thus getting into crime to find solace and eventually end up in systems of juvenile justice because of social rejection by those who are supposed to embrace and educate them. Family influence This is one of the major modern theories acknowledged by many researchers. Most theorist of modern psychology agree with this theory that an individual is more likely to be affected by the way their parents bring them up either negatively or positively depending on the existing family values already in possession by the parents. As Weiher et al. (1991, p. 22) puts it, parent-child relationships such as closeness, acceptance, correction, rejection among many others play a very important role when it come to predicting likely behavior a child will develop as they grow. Family influence have bee associated with negative trends with some research showing that family influence is more influential than peer group influence. Better communication strategies with strong emotional support have been found to reduce juvenile delinquency. Children with non-traditional family set ups such as single parents and reconstituted families commit more juvenile crimes than those children do from traditional families. Because a child from traditional family enjoy intimate family relationship with both parents who become mentors and role models. This is in the sense that in parents able to devote more energy and time to their children, hence positively influencing their habits (Benjamin Lahey, 2003, p. 62). These children are also least associated with delinquency as they get more resources and a more sensible family setup. On the other hand, non-traditional families fail in larger proportions to provide the same thus, children from such families are likely to get into crime when they seek to make up for what they lack. Traditional family parents have the advantage of sharing the cost of commitment to their children especially financially. This is contrary to what faces a non-traditional family parent who may find it difficult to commit time for emotional and financial support to all of his or her children Modern society is experiencing a rapid increase in non-traditional family set ups with many people opting for single parenthood especially women to avoid commitments that come with one being a wife and at the same time a mother. Therefore, according to Coughlan (2007, P. 29), juvenile delinquency is more rampant due to such social setups brought about by living preferences of the modern generation (35). Just as good parenting may have a benefiting effect on bringing up morally upright children, the opposite results in a poorly natured child who is more vulnerable to getting out of school for example, and getting involved in criminal activities. Critical Theories for Juvenile Delinquency This encompasses a set of explanations by various sociologists and renowned scholars on how differences in numerous characteristics such as gender or race can lead to an increase in rates of crimes among different members of the society. Other documents focus on group differences and how those in positions of authority trigger commitment to crime by young people (Coleta et al 2007). Racial differences traditionally, can be associated with the Marxism theory too which postulates that those in positions perceived superior are the most likely to dictate the pace as goes the infamous saying that he who pays the piper, calls for the tune. Marxist theory argue that people those who own production chains have the greatest say in making any decisions pertaining that particular line of production. Larry et al. 2008, p. 227). Argue that others who are the minorities will have to go by what the haves dictate such as the type of work to be done, by who and how. Biases that have lead to discrimination of certain specific minority groups among the many world societies have lead not only to unresolved conflicts, but also in an increase in juvenile delinquency especially in the American societies. This finding is among the most recent theories in criminal justice that explain why delinquency is on the rise in such social set ups where a particular race feel more superior than t he other to the extent of treating the latter as subordinates (229). Racial abuses for example can be tracked right from the social status of many societies with less cosmopolitan places being affected more. This implies that where a group of people is in small numbers, biases more prevalent. Perceptions on people weak economically greatly affect young people relations with, view of people of the opposite class. It is evident in many societies across the globe that these young people will always behave in a way suggesting that they are opposed to what pertains those perceived as opponents (Agnew, 2005, p. 119). This usually results in numerous conflicts, as antagonistic beliefs are ever experienced with majorities emerging triumphant over the minorities eventually encouraging crime especially with the youth. The Kaplan Theory on Self-esteem as Delinquent Factor Most young people especially adolescents will always want to stay and fit in a place they feel accepted. Whenever this fails to happen, these people turn for alternatives to ensure that the recapture their original status of self-satisfaction. The already established criminal organizations within the society always benefit from decisions of such young people who feel rejected by their own class (Benjamin Lahey, 2003, p. 19). Criminal organizations usually offer a very satisfactory settlement, as they are easy to accept and make one feel good thus restoring the much sought self-esteem. Unfortunately, swings in self -esteem are experienced most in adolescent again making the young people more vulnerable. This is because at this stage they have developed self-preferences, which may not by provided by the society, thus making them feels rejected (Larry et al. 2008, p. 47). A solution to this is usually alternative peer groups into which they get into even if they are engaged in criminal activities. Self-derogatory theory formulated by Kaplan is being used in many research studies to establish how far reaching the effects of low self-esteem are, in juvenile delinquency. Feminist Theory of Juvenile Delinquency Gender differences are the main factor used to argue with this theory. Despite the fact that the theory focuses on the overall rates of committing crime among people of all ages, careful analysis can lead to a more direct link to juvenile crime. The theory too, seeks to clarify why male commit crimes more than females, and why females commit crime in the general social perspective (Weiher et al. 1991, p. 42). Gender disparities experience by females is one of the major catalysts increasing the number of junior female offenders. Positions assigned to females in many societies especially in the developing world are more disadvantageous compared to that of their male counterparts. Females are likely to get into crime such as drug peddling at an early age when their rights are denied for instance when forced to drop out of school to give room for their brothers who are socially assumed to have better chances of attending and successfully completing studies (72). Females at their younger age are more like to be abuse sexually by their dominant males thus opt for alternative forms of life, which makes them end up in crime brackets. This is because they cannot be accepted back into the society so easily as they are already labeled as delinquents at a tender age. This theory is used to explain female juvenile offences and how being female may influence the rate at which juvenile delinquency occur (82). Crime among youthful members of the society can only be understood well by considering different social encounters by females in events where men want to demonstrate their prowess in ruling women. Conclusion Juvenile crime can easily be tackled when intercepted at its point of origin. Individuals who happen to be involved in such crimes usually develop the craving to do so while still young therefore posing a very good opportunity to tackle the vice as children are more malleable and can easily be molded into positive characters. Psychosocial factors also play a very important role in juvenile crime as the way people think and live determine the general social uprightness of the young generation. Perceptions cultivated among different groups of people by the people themselves are more detrimental to minorities especially when they are negative. Societies with more conspicuous differences such as races are more like to experience higher rate of juvenile delinquency.

Philosophy of Money Essay -- Economics Science Papers

Philosophy of Money This article is an attempt to sketch a philosophical view of money as a social phenomenon. I show that the way to understand the substance of money is to analyze its meaning as a medium of exchange in connection with its meaning as a purpose of exchange, thereby providing an investigation of its social value. This approach has been used by many of the great philosophers and economists of the past, but not today. Modern economics is a policy oriented theoretical discipline and concentrates its efforts on solving practical tasks. I hope to contribute a philosophical approach to economic research. Money is a reality, a permanent feature of our everyday lives. It gives our lives a particular rhythm, a particular  «charm », a particular perception of the world and our place in it. Money creates problems when we do not have it, and yet more problems when we do have it. But it is only an illusion that we are in control of our money: in actual fact we do not notice how subtly and intensively it exercises control over us. Money makes us both master and slave. Our power over money is real only inasmuch as we are able to understand its power over us. Man has sought to understand the essence of money for many centuries. Philosophers and economists, statesmen, writers, even poets have written about money. (1) Money has been lauded and cursed, it has been dreamed of and disdained. What is money - good or evil? It brings stability and instability and makes people looking for and running away from it. Money is capable of creating and destroying, of uniting and disuniting. It makes people partners and rivals and can influence the fate of individuals and whole nations. But what does money bring - freedom or depende... ... (13)  «The ideal purpose of money, as well as of the law, is to be a measure of things without being measured itself, a purpose that can be realized fully only by an endless development ». (G.Simmel. The Philosophy of Money/ Ed. by D.Frisby.- L., N.Y.: Routledge. 1995, p.511) (14)  «Exchange » is here treated in its broadest sense as the alienation of all that man gives to society and the appropriation of all that he receives from society. (15) G.Simmel. The Philosophy of Money./ Ed. By D.Frisby.- L.., N.Y.: Routledge, 1995 (16) We agree that fundamental theoretical research in economics cannot be effective without philosophy.  «What are the prospects for bridging disciplinary boundaries and for strengthening the collaboration between economists and philosophers? » (D.Hausman.Essays on philosophy and economic methodology.-Cambridge University Press.1992, p.230)

Hybrid Cars Essay -- Gasoline Electric Hybrid Automobiles

These cars operate from a rechargeable battery and gasoline. The engines are smaller so that they will be able to accommodate the 99% of time when the car is not going uphill or accelerating quickly. The battery is used to give extra acceleration power if needed. When the car is stopped, hybrid gasoline motors can shut off and run off their electric motor and battery. These cars are aerodynamic and the tires are often stiffer and inflated higher to reduce dragging. According to a November 16, 2004 article written in the parents magazine, hybrid cars are no different from the gas powered car. It can accelerate just as quickly and travel just as fast on the highway and they are just as safe to drive. When the car comes to a complete stop, the engine shuts down completely and starts up again when the accelerator is pressed. Therefore, gas is not wasted and toxins are not emitted. www.ineed2know.org There are 3 popular hybrids on the market today which are the Honda Insight coupe, Toyota Prius four door hatchback and the Honda Civic hybrid Sedan. There are 6 new hybrid models on the way to the market which will give families a larger selection to choose from. These cars will allow consumers to save on gas. The consumer gets more miles per gallon with the Hybrid car. These cars can go 600 miles before having to refuel with gasoline which will decrease the amount of money that the consumer will have to pay for filling the gas tank. Also, these cars produce about 90 percent fewer smog-forming tailpipe emissions compared with the average new car, according to Dave Hermance, head of Environmental Engineering for Toyota. Purchasing these cars will also allow the consumer to receive a tax break of $1,500. The price of these cars are no... ...ill increase and the manufacturers will have to increase production. Interest rate is another factor that impact demand for this car. If the interest rate is low, more consumers will be able to purchase the car because the monthly payments will be low. However, if the interest rate is high, this will cause the monthly payments to be higher which may cause demand for cars to decrease. The forecasts that I would use for these indicators are www.federalreserve.gov, www.cbo.gov and www.mbaa.org. These economic forecasts can be used to predict future demands. Due to the constant rise in gas prices, Hybrid cars have become a hot item in today's economy. Although the Hybrid cars are more expensive than the conventional cars the rapid increase in gasoline prices will allow the consumer to make up the difference and save money by having to make fewer trips to the gas pump.

Why Africa Is the Poorest Continent

Africa: The Poorest Continent in the World By Haile Hamlett You have just been kidnapped and the war lord has gotten you so addicted to drugs you’ll do anything for him to get them. Or you can’t go to school because you have to stay home and take care of your siblings because you parents died of AIDS. This is just some of the things the citizens of the poorest continent in the world go through every day. Thirty six percentof people in Africa are living on less than a dollar a day.Sixty nine percent of the population in Africa is living with HIV. Another very overlooked reason is that there isn’t enough clean wate r. Those are just a few of the reasons that Africa has become the poorest continent in the world. The education in Africa is very poor, which leads to many of the problems in Africa. Only 52% of kids are enrolled in primary education and the percent goes down as they get older. The largest reason for poor education in Africa is because there isn’t many places fit to be a school or people to employ as teachers.Most people who do receive an education are in big cities or go overseas to get their education; people who live in rural areas find it harder to get a proper education. The poor education leads to issues finding jobs that could provide more money. If there was a better educational system there would be more job opportunities and more money being offered. Out of the estimated 31. 6 people who have AIDS/HIV worldwide, 21. 6 million of them live in Sub-Saharan Africa. One main reason it’s so high in Africa is because it’s transmitted more often.This is because people don’t have enough money to get the medication they need, and have kids or pass it on, therefore infecting yet another person. Of course, AIDS isn’t caused by poverty itself, but caused by HIV. But poverty can be the reason that could make somebody more eligible to get it. Poverty can make it hard for people to get information on AI DS/HIV or how to properly prevent it. Also when you don’t have the money you can’t get tested so you could be living with HIV and not even know it. ______ has reported that about one billion people in Africa don’t have access to clean, safe drinking water. Without water you cannot grow crops which could help you feed your family or you could sell them for money to get other necessities. Without water you cannot stay hydrated while working tedious hours in the fields or out hunting. Often the nearest water source is miles away and you have to bring a jug and fill it with, often dirty, water, and carry it back to where you live. The water can create a healthier place and help slow down the spread of diseases.Although Africa is the poorest continent it could be considered â€Å"rich† with all the natural resources that can be found throughout Africa. Africa has a lot of natural resources including oil, diamonds, gold, coal, petroleum, and tropical fruits, an d because its population is so spread out many of them have not even been touched. Africa is also rich with culture, even though many of the people are below poverty line they still find a way to have fun and live life. Africa may be poor in some ways but is rich in ways that can’t be taken from them.

Romeo & Juliet Theme Essay

Romeo and Juliet is a classic play by William Shakespeare about a pair of star-crossed lovers whose passion eventually drives them to their unfortunate deaths. Since the theme in The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet is Love as a Cause of Violence, it is easy to see why Shakespeare uses that thematic focus to show how Romeo and Juliet’s love for one another affected the outcome of their relationship. Most of the time, being in love makes people very over dramatic. When they lose someone they love, certain people tend to think that their lives are over and they can’t go on. This happens a lot in Romeo and Juliet.For example, when Romeo is exiled from Verona, he overreacts completely and goes to complain to the Friar. He says that being banished is just saying death by another name. He whines and utters that he would rather die than be away from his dear Juliet. Also, after Romeo is rejected by his first love Rosaline, he thinks that there is no one else in the world that can e ver compare to her, even though he falls in love with Juliet shortly after. Another example of this over dramatic behavior was when Juliet heard news of Romeo’s banishment. She considered Romeo’s banishment even worse than her own cousin’s death!Over dramatic behavior is just one of the things that makes love turn into violence. This play also demonstrates the effect love can have on decision making. Love can be very blinding especially in Romeo and Juliet’s case. They both made many rash and dangerous choices because their love clouded their ability to think wisely. An example of one of these rash, terrible decisions was when Romeo bought the poison from a pharmacist/apothecary. He should have considered all of his options before immediately jumping to the conclusion that he had to kill himself.This theme also came up when Juliet stated, â€Å"I long to die if what thou speak’st speak not of remedy. † (Shakespeare, Act IIII Scene I) She sai d this to Friar Lawrence complaining that if he can’t find her a way out of marrying Paris, she will kill herself. This is significant because it shows how her love for Romeo made her think violently, even though she didn’t follow through with what she said she would do. Lastly, Juliet stabbing herself with Romeo’s dagger at the end of the play showed how being without Romeo was unthinkable for her.Finally, the reoccurring theme of Love as a Cause of Violence is mainly in this play because without it, the audience underestimates the true power of Romeo and Juliet’s love for one another. The theme is what caused the dramatic, tragic ending to the play Romeo and Juliet. The double suicide was what ended the conflict between the two feuding families and showed how love is the source of all or most of the violence that occurs in The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. Romeo and Juliet aren’t the only ones who died because of love either.Lady Montague died of grieving for her banished son whom she loved exceedingly, and Tybalt died because Romeo killed him out of rage from losing his beloved best friend Mercutio. As you can see, the main theme of Love as a Cause of Violence is prevalent throughout the entire play of Romeo and Juliet. The power that love contains works in many different ways. In The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, love causes overly dramatic behavior, lack of quality judgment, and most of all, particularly violent actions and thoughts by the main and minor characters. Romeo & Juliet Theme Essay Romeo and Juliet is a classic play by William Shakespeare about a pair of star-crossed lovers whose passion eventually drives them to their unfortunate deaths. Since the theme in The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet is Love as a Cause of Violence, it is easy to see why Shakespeare uses that thematic focus to show how Romeo and Juliet’s love for one another affected the outcome of their relationship. Most of the time, being in love makes people very over dramatic. When they lose someone they love, certain people tend to think that their lives are over and they can’t go on. This happens a lot in Romeo and Juliet.For example, when Romeo is exiled from Verona, he overreacts completely and goes to complain to the Friar. He says that being banished is just saying death by another name. He whines and utters that he would rather die than be away from his dear Juliet. Also, after Romeo is rejected by his first love Rosaline, he thinks that there is no one else in the world that can e ver compare to her, even though he falls in love with Juliet shortly after. Another example of this over dramatic behavior was when Juliet heard news of Romeo’s banishment. She considered Romeo’s banishment even worse than her own cousin’s death!Over dramatic behavior is just one of the things that makes love turn into violence. This play also demonstrates the effect love can have on decision making. Love can be very blinding especially in Romeo and Juliet’s case. They both made many rash and dangerous choices because their love clouded their ability to think wisely. An example of one of these rash, terrible decisions was when Romeo bought the poison from a pharmacist/apothecary. He should have considered all of his options before immediately jumping to the conclusion that he had to kill himself.This theme also came up when Juliet stated, â€Å"I long to die if what thou speak’st speak not of remedy. † (Shakespeare, Act IIII Scene I) She sai d this to Friar Lawrence complaining that if he can’t find her a way out of marrying Paris, she will kill herself. This is significant because it shows how her love for Romeo made her think violently, even though she didn’t follow through with what she said she would do. Lastly, Juliet stabbing herself with Romeo’s dagger at the end of the play showed how being without Romeo was unthinkable for her.Finally, the reoccurring theme of Love as a Cause of Violence is mainly in this play because without it, the audience underestimates the true power of Romeo and Juliet’s love for one another. The theme is what caused the dramatic, tragic ending to the play Romeo and Juliet. The double suicide was what ended the conflict between the two feuding families and showed how love is the source of all or most of the violence that occurs in The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. Romeo and Juliet aren’t the only ones who died because of love either.Lady Montague died of grieving for her banished son whom she loved exceedingly, and Tybalt died because Romeo killed him out of rage from losing his beloved best friend Mercutio. As you can see, the main theme of Love as a Cause of Violence is prevalent throughout the entire play of Romeo and Juliet. The power that love contains works in many different ways. In The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, love causes overly dramatic behavior, lack of quality judgment, and most of all, particularly violent actions and thoughts by the main and minor characters.

The World Trade Organization

The courage and dedication that was displayed by the protestors in the video was what I took to heart. It was something else to see a group of people come together to protest something that they believed so strongly despite being pepper sprayed, shot at with rubber bullets, and thrown into jail†¦.. But why would anyone go to these lengths to protest against an organization? The World Trade Organization was created in Jan. 1 1995 and has 140 member countries. According to their official website www. wto. org the organizations main purpose is to, â€Å"help trade flow as freely as possible-so long as there are no undesirable side-effects. This partly means removing obstacles. † However the organization isn’t a democratic organization. Instead the WTO rules are written by and for corporations with inside access to the negotiations. Citizen input by consumer, environmental, human rights and labor organizations is consistently ignored as WTO meetings are held in secret. According to the video, out of the 100 largest economies in the world, 51 are corporations and only 49 are countries. As a result it is no wonder why so many came to protest this secret meeting held in Seattle, WA. According to the video many protestors argued that the WTO and its motto of free world trade is stomping over labor and human rights in countries throughout the world as the use of cheap labor and child labor are continually ignored by the WTO. The magazine Global Exchange states that the WTO is blocking human rights abuses since they have ruled that, â€Å"1) It is illegal for a government to ban a product base on the way it is produced and 2) Governments cannot take into account the behavior of companies that do business with vicious dictatorships such as Burma. The protestors in the video also felt that the WTO was destroying the environment. Evidence of this, dates back to 1993 when according to the Global Exchange, â€Å"The very first WTO panel ruled that a regulation of the US Clean Air Act, which required both domestic and foreign producers alike to produce cleaner gasoline, was illegal. Recently, the WTO declared illegal a provision of the Endangered Species Act that requires shrimp in the US to be caught with an inexpensive device that allows endangered sea turtles to escape, and the WTO is currently negotiating an agreement that would eliminate tariffs on wood products, which would increase the demand for timber and escalate deforestation. As a result I believe that these corporations should not be allowed to continue to get away with such actions. The people in Seattle honored their legal right to assemble. The actions taken by the city of Seattle against these protestors were too extreme and I’m still unclear for what reason they took such extreme measures against the protestors. These were peaceful protests and the city freaked out over a few broken windows at corporations such as Starbucks and Nike. In my point of view the steps taken by the city of Seattle was way over the line and its disgusts me that peaceful protestors were thrown into jail for demonstrating a legal right in the constitution.

My experience, role and learning support Essay

In accordance to the ethical guidelines written by The British Education Research Association (BERA, 2004), the names of the children and school, where used, have been changed in order to maintain confidentiality and anonymity. My role (Hancock et al. , 2013 p1) States that â€Å"the practice of learning support as carried out by teaching assistants has developed considerably in recent times†. In the nursery I work along side two higher level teaching assistants and the nursery teacher. At this stage of school life, the majority of learning is through play, so we encourage the use of structured, well thought out fun educational games and play either in small groups or on a one to one basis, I carry out structured activities i. e. drawing, writing, crafting and reading, either on a one to one basis or with a small group of usually 4-6 children. I help identify any child or children that may benefit from further one to one help, through keeping well informed observation notes (KU1. 1) (KS3. 1) (PPS4. 3) In my role as classroom assistant in year one, my role is very similar to that of the classroom assistant, Margaret Verrecchie, in reader book 1 (Hancock et al. , 2013, pg4) A classroom assistant) I work along side the teacher and one teaching assistant. I help the teacher in the classroom, prepare resources’ for the session and offer the children extra support with reading and writing, it depends on what the teacher wants and needs and on what she asks me to do. Each day is different, and my duties vary accordingly. (PPS4. 3) (KS3. 1) As a midday supervisor, I work along side 10 other midday supervisors, supervising the children in the dining area and other parts of the school during the lunch time break. I help the children with a variety of tasks such as cutting up food, unwrapping of pack lunches and help teach good eating habits, After the children finish eating, we go to the playground, or if it’s wet play, a classroom, where I supervise the children at play. I ensure pupils keep out of areas that are out of bounds, deal with misbehaviour, reporting any problems that I’m unable to resolve to my duty manager, I attend to all pupils who are sick or injured, ensuring they receive the appropriate medical attention, reporting all accidents in the accident report book, I am aware of my responsibilities under the child protection legislation, reporting any concerns I may have to my senior supervisor or child protection officer. I enjoy this role as it allows me to see the children in a more relaxed environment, giving me the invaluable opportunity to get to know the children, on a more personal level, getting to know their personalities outside of the classroom. As lunchtimes are a great opportunity for the children to burn of f some steam, I try to encourage the children to take part in lots of physical activities like skipping and hoopla hoops. (PPS4. 3) I can personally relate to the parent helper in the (The Open University, 2013) E111 DVD sequence –Pam Crawford is a parent helper with a son who is special needs statemented, In the sequence, Pam states that she originally started to volunteer mainly to support her son, but along the way she decided that being a teaching assistant was what she wanted to be, so started a college course to train to become a qualified teaching assistant, which is exactly the same as why I am doing this course. Framework I provide a varied and broad array of duties and tasks on a daily basis in support to the pupils, the teacher, the school and the curriculum, through performing activities on a one to one basis or as part of a team with my work colleagues. Although they do tend to regularly overlap each other, I offer the four levels of support as suggested in the DfEE framework. (PPS4. 3) To support the pupils I encourage them to act independently in an appropriate way, to interact with each other and engage enthusiastically in all the classroom activities. I try to establish a good relationship with all the pupils, acting as a good role model, being aware of and responding appropriately to all individual needs. I supervise and support all the pupils ensuring their safety and make sure they have access to learning at all times. I help them to develop their skills in listening, to express their feelings and ideas, help them to understand, describe, select and retrieve information, show them ways in which to help with problem solving, communication etc. I also attend to all pupils’ personal needs including social, health, physical, hygiene, minor first aid and general well being. To help support the teacher, I prepare the classroom as and when needed for the lessons then clear everything away at the end of the lesson. I also help display pupils work around the classroom; I keep records as and when asked to do so by the teacher. I also support the teacher by managing pupil behaviour, reporting all difficulties appropriately, to the relevant member of staff. I also gather and report and information to and from parents or careers at the end of the school day and I provide administration duties as and when the teacher requires. To support the school I participate in any training and learning activities and any performance development meetings as and when required, I contribute to the overall ethos of the school, I am aware of and support difference and ensure all pupils have equal access to opportunities to learn and discover and to be aware of and comply with policies and procedures relating to child protection, health, safety and security, confidentiality and data protection, reporting all concerns to an appropriate person. To help support the curriculum I help prepare and maintain equipment/resources as directed by the teacher and assist the pupils in their use, also supporting the pupils in using basic ICT as directed by the teacher. I support the pupils in respect to national and local learning strategies e. g. literacy, numeracy, early years as directed by the teacher and help pupils understands instructions that have been given by the teacher. Previous interests and experiences I enjoyed school and took part in lots of school activities like the school productions and the school summer floats at carnival time, I also learnt to play the flute which gained me a place in the school orchestra. I was confident and never had problems making friends, although I did struggle with my school work, but I never let it beat me, I always strived to do my best. I have always been able to take the initiative and have a positive and adaptable personality. I find it easy to fit in with my surroundings and work well as part of a team or on my own. Since leaving school, I’ve worked for various companies, big and small. I’ve been a company administrator for a large company, which built up my confidence working as part of a team which encouraged me to be more efficient with my time as I had to work to strict deadlines, gaining knowledge on company policies and procedures and improving my ICT, and communication skills. I was also a care worker for a care agency where confidentiality was paramount; I went to client’s homes to perform various duties from personal care to shopping and housework. It’s through this job that I learnt skills to encourage people to be independent and carry out simple instructions/tasks. It’s also through this job that I learnt the importance of confidentiality and to keep completely accurate, up to date client observational records. I have three children of my own now and the experiences gained from being a mother, on top of the experiences gained from previous employment and my current employment, has enabled me to make the clear decision that I would like to pursue a career as a teaching assistant as I feel that the skills I’ve gained through life are all relevant to a teaching assistant’s role and skills that I have acquired for life. Key theories and concepts Both Piaget and Vygotsky were instrumental in forming a scientific approach on cognitive development in children. Jean Piaget was one of the first psychologists to reveal that children reason and think differently at different periods in their lives. Piaget considered development went through four stages: Sensori-motor: Pre-Operational: Concrete Operational and the formal Operational stage. The Sensori-motor period (0-2 yrs) is the first stage, as the infants interactions are based on exploring their environment through their senses and abilities, such as grasping and sucking, this also includes practice play as the infant is able to repeat actions continually, but with no intention. The pre-Operational stage (2-7 yrs) is where children’s language is rapidly developed, allowing them to express themselves. They start to use pretend play and parallel play which means children are talking but it is not directed at anyone in particular. The Concrete operation (7-11 yrs) and Formal Operational (11-adult) periods are the third and fourth stages. These are not usually considered in early childhood education but they are still equally important as they are able to think realistically and logically about situations and understand their world (Pulaski. 1980) Vygotsky believes children’s learning of new cognitive skills is guided by an adult or a more skilled child, such as an older sibling, who structures the child’s learning experience, a process Vygotsky called scaffolding. To create an appropriate scaffold, the adult must gain and keep the child’s attention, model the best strategy and adapt the whole process to the child’s developmental level. Vygotsky used this term to signify tasks that are too hard for the child to do alone, but can manage with guidance. Children do seem to follow a certain internal structure, for example grasping and touching, but not all children learn in the same way or at the same pace. A classic example of Vygotskys scaffolding theory can be seen with my two sons, the youngest that at the time was in nappies wanted to use the big toilet like his big brother, so as suggested by Vygotsky, my eldest son used the scaffolding technique. Vygotskys ideas have important educational applications, like Piagets, Vygotskys theory suggest the importance of opportunities for active exploration. But assisted discovery would play a greater role in a Vygotskian classroom than in a Piagetian class: The teacher would provide the scaffolding for children’s discovery, through questions, demonstrations and explanations. To be effective, the assisted discovery processes would have to be within the zone of proximal development of each child (Bee and Boyd, p38. (2009) Cognitive learning is not just internal but also external. Piaget believed that developmental growth was learned in stages. Vygotsky believed that learning was a social and progressive process that did not start or stop at a certain stage or age. A child’s activity plays a key role in the way they learn. I believe that both these theories go hand in hand and that the environmental factors do influence learning behaviours. Training needs My overall aim is to become a qualified teaching assistant, for primary school aged children, which I will gain through completing this course and with the ongoing training I am receiving at work. I aim to develop a better understanding of the ways in which children learn and be more involved in the planning and preparation of lessons. Even though I am a valued member of staff, I still feel that I need to develop my relationships further with professional bodies. I feel I also need to develop my leadership skills further, in order for me to improve my effectiveness in leading pupils through a class activity.

Cloudstreet Essay

Cloudstreet: Religion and Spirituality | A Novel by Tim Winton| â€Å"From separate catastrophes, two rural families flee to the city and find themselves sharing a great, breathing, shuddering joint called Cloudstreet, where they begin their lives again from scratch. For twenty years they roister and rankle, laugh and curse until the roof over their heads becomes a home for their hearts.† (Winton, 1991) Tim Winton’s critically acclaimed novel, Cloudstreet is a masterful tale of love, meaning and heartbreaking tragedy that speaks strongly of a post war Australian society that was essentially rebuilding itself after years of political upheaval and financial struggle. Good Morning/Afternoon Ladies and Gentleman. I am a representative of the National English Curriculum board and today I am here to demonstrate to you how Cloudstreet is authentic and believable, and as Marieke Hardy suggests: â€Å"It is Australian. Reading it felt like coming home.† Throughout Cloudstreet, there are numerous concepts that portray the Australian cultural identity; and the theme of religion and spirituality is especially prominent and appealing. The concept of luck, Aboriginal spirituality, and the search for the meaning of life, are all Australian ideas that Winton expertly portrays. Spirituality can be defined as â€Å"a concern for that which is unseen or intangible; as opposed to physical or mundane.† (Greenberg, 2008) It encourages a sense of peace and purpose within an individual and promotes a feeling of belonging. Additionally, religion can be defined as â€Å"the belief in, and worship of a superhuman controlling power.† (Religion) Both concepts are widely integrated into the core of the novel and are depicted through the Australian notion of luck. Luck, which some would argue has long been etched into the Australian consciousness as a common working class superstition, is, whether th ey are conscious of it or not, a form of religion for both families. The Pickles family, most notably Sam, rely on the â€Å"shifty shadow of God† (p 12) to warn them about future events, while the Lamb’s simple game of â€Å"spinning the knife† (p 53) acts as their metaphorical life compass. â€Å"The Lucky Country† (Horne, 1964) is a phrase that originated from a book of the same name written in the 1960’s, and since then, has gained widespread popularity and thus, been attached to the Australian culture for a long time. Winton has  cleverly examined this historical background to incorporate an accurate facet of the Australian identity into the novel and its characters. Also related to the concept of luck, is the fact that after Fish drowns, Oriel, once a devoted and â€Å"god fearing† Christian, begins to question her faith and the reliability of believing in God. When Fish is resuscitated, but only â€Å"some of him comes back†, (p 32) both she and Lester are emotionally forced to abandon God and Christianity and instead, turn to luck, hard work and the idea that â€Å"life and death, was all there was,† (p 65) in order to endure their circumstances. This draws on the common â€Å"Aussie battler† tradition, of which a working class person overcame challenging situations through perseverance, faith and steadfast determination. In terms of the Australian cultural identity, Winton has again taken an important and recognized historical Australian idea and shaped it to evoke feelings of familiarity and intimacy between the readers and the characters of Cloudstreet. The frequent appearance of the â€Å"Blackfella† is yet another example of how the Australian cultural identity is portrayed through examination of Aboriginal Spirituality. However, in many scenes throughout the novel, the blackfella signifies both Christian and Aboriginal spirituality through allusion and comparison. For example, he is likened to Jesus by walking on water and again when he produces a never ending supply of wine and bread in Quick’s car. This comparison is particularly effective as it symbolises the â€Å"coming together† of Christianity and Aboriginality, which was a particularly delicate Australian issue during the time period of the novel, due to Aboriginal marginalisation and the rise of Christian ideals. Essentially, the Blackfella acts as a reminder of the original religion inherent to Australia and its development, during a time when social and political change was overtaking that of its native beliefs. The â€Å"Blackfella† also ac ts as the conscience of the characters when they have lost their way or their family unit is threatened. This can ultimately be seen when he leads Quick back to Cloudstreet after he runs away to the country, knowing that Quick feels secretly lost without his family, and needs them to feel fully alive. He also persuades Sam not the sell the house and states that â€Å"you shouldn’t break a place. Places are strong and important,† (p 406) referring to not only the house and its tragic Aboriginal history, but also to the fragile  families who live inside it. In doing so, he ensures that the families stay whole and together, which is an important and dominating religious value for Aboriginality and Christianity, both during the time period of the novel and in our modern Australian society. Consequently, the â€Å"Blackfella’s† role in Cloudstreet is a significant contribution to the novel’s relevancy to the Australian cultural identity. The Australian cultural identity is also illustrated in Cloudstreet through the spiritual symbolism and personification of the river, and its connection to the character’s search for the meaning of life. This is particularly significant for Quick Lamb, who, is spiritually linked to the river in a number of ways. The river acts as a place of peace, purpose and belonging for Quick. Connecting with his mother when they go prawning, glowing after fishing in the country, and most importantly, falling in love with Rose Pickles, are the most significant spiritually defining events that Quick experiences while on the river. Through realising just how symbolically important the river is to him, Quick finally understands the true meaning of his life, and gains a feeling of belonging that allows him to finally shed his self-degrading title of â€Å"the lost lamb.† (p 310) Australia is a country that values the water. Geographically, we are surrounded by it, with most of our population residing close to the shores. As a result of this, the water is seen as a common gathering place, from which one cannot easily escape nor regard as irrelevant to the Australian way of life. Winton has taken this idea and incorporated it into Cloudstreet, to emphasise and promote a relevant part of Australian culture. Finally, the river’s spiritual and religious connection to Fish Lamb is perhaps the most important concept of the novel. After Fish drowns and has his soul ripped into two separate pieces (spiritual fish and physical fish), the river that he so desperately longs for, essentially becomes his gateway to the spiritual world; to the place where he belongs. It is not until the end of the novel when Fish is finally free to reunite with the water that he is truly whole again. â€Å"I burst into the moon, sun and stars of who I really am. Being Fish Lamb. Perfectly. Always. Everyplace. Me.†(p 424) For many, water in Australia is culturally considered to be the blood of the country; a place of c leansing and rejuvenation. Likewise, for Fish, the river embodies the epitome of the spirit of Australia in the form of life giving water. Although his life was initially taken by the water, it is eventually returned to him when his physical self re-joins his spiritual self. In conclusion, Winton flawlessly encapsulates the cultural identity and spirit of Australia in Cloudstreet through symbolic representations of luck, Aboriginal spirituality and the search for the meaning of life. The characters’ connection with religion and spirituality resonates strongly with the reader and successfully evokes feelings of belonging and familiarity that confirms Cloudstreet is indeed a classic Australian novel. Bibliography Associates, R. Q. (2008, September 16). Ideology in Cloudstreet . Retrieved 2013, from www.englishcurriculum.com.au Cloudstreet Notes. (n.d.). Retrieved 2013, from Sydney Home Tutoring: http://www.sydneyhometutoring.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Details-Cloudstreet-notes.pdf. Dot Point Notes Cloudstreet. (n.d.). Retrieved 2013, from Sydney Home Tutoring : http://www.sydneyhometutoring.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Dot-Point-Notes-Cloudstreet.pdf. Greenberg, N. (2008, October 8). Retrieved 2013, from Can Spirituality Be Defined: http://notes.utk.edu/bio/unistudy.nsf/935c0d855156f9e08525738a006f2417/bdc83cd10e58d14a852573b00072525d Horne, D. (1964). The Lucky Country. Penguin Books Australia. Religion. (n.d.). Retrieved 2013, from Google Definitions: https://www.google.com.au/search?q=religion+definition Winton, T. (1991). Cloudstreet. McPhee Gribble.