Minimum Test Battery for Assessing CANS Function Essay

Minimum Test Battery for Assessing CANS Function - Essay Example The following general points should be considered when choosing tests to assess CANS. The sensitivity of central auditory tests is important and can be determined by testing patients with well-defined lesions of the central auditory nervous system (CANS). Using a decision matrix model, the test results from these patients can be analyzed in reference to scores (Musiek 81-82). Test selection should be guided by the intended use of the results. Specific tests may be preferred for differential diagnosis and monitoring disease progression or recovery, whereas other tests may be used to reveal functional deficits, to guide intervention planning, and to determine counseling efforts. There should also be a careful consideration of the population for testing (Katz, Stecker & Henderson 12-44). The various populations for central testing should be divided into categories. This will enhance overall test efficiency because the best tests for a target population can be used. Therefore, the test b atteries for assessing CAPD are presented under several categories (Stapells & Oates, 257-280). The auditory test batteries that are used to assess CANS function or dysfunction as the case may be, falls into two major categories: Behavioral tests and Electrophysiological tests. The behavioral tests are usually divided into four subcategories: monaural low-redundancy speech tests, dichotic speech tests, temporal patterning tests, and binaural interaction tests (Picton 225). The selection of tests will depend upon a number of factors, including the age of the individual being assessed, the specific auditory difficulties the individual displays, the individual’s native language, and cognitive status, and so forth. Electrophysiological tests are measures of the brains response to sounds (Blattner et al 179-183).

Edgar Allan Poe Essay Example for Free

Edgar Allan Poe Essay Edgar Allan Poe was evil genius for his time and a great literary forerunner of today. He created the mind set for current writers such as Stephen King, Clive Barker, and Robin Cook by creating the horror story. Poe invites the reader to enter the mind of the narrator by using our senses as a way to provoke terror, suspense, and awe. His writing was influenced by many tragic losses in his life, and this would explain why Poe was a writer of such morbid short stories and poems. Poes experiences in life definitely influenced the remarkable literary work he produced. In his early life he had to deal with the death of both his parents, a difficult experience, but Poe accepted it as time went on. Later on in his life Poes stepfather disowned him. Young Edgars life was changed due to abandonment, alcoholism, and depression. In 1832 Poe moved in with his aunt and his 11 year old cousin in Baltimore. Poe then married his younger cousin in 1836. However, Poe did not know that he would suffer yet another terrible loss, the loss of his love, his wife. Poes ability to write literature was the window for him to express his feelings. All of Poes tragic losses affected the way he wrote. Poe used his life experiences to make his writing a lot more interesting. Poes writing is remarkably interesting. The poem The Raven showed how Poe erected a crazed state of mind, as the poem shows how the loss or a loved one drove a person crazy. This poem was possibly created for his wife that he had lost. While reading the poem it seems as if the stresses of the life of Poe, and his thoughts and feelings were all put into this poem. Throughout Poes life, many factors have contributed and influenced his writing style. He lived a difficult life, because he was raised in a dysfunctional household. But the final product of Poes mind is printed in his short stories and poems. Poes stories all have similar motifs and composition that would suggest suppressed emotions from life experiences are being discharged through his writings. The most prominent feature of Poes writing is his obsession with death. Poes writing does more than entertain the reader. It can be an insight into the dark and somber world of Edgar Allan Poe. One does not understand the meaning of Poe if one reads at the superficial level. One has to read into Poe, and understand the hardships of his life and how he maintained them that way. He knew that death was an inevitable part of life, it is the price of life, but he tried to fight it as if it was an unnatural part of life. He was an extremely intriguing man from all viewpoints, and he was and is, the dark side of all of us. It is difficult not to link Poes fictional stories with his real life. Evidence shows that Poe had a heart condition during his later years in life. Could The Tell Tale Heart be his own fear of the disease? Who knows? Could Poe have been expressing his fears that his alcoholic rages may cause him to hurt the ones he loved most in his tale The Black Cat? Finally, was the Pit and the Pendulum an allegory of his life? Did he find himself caught between the pendulum of financial adversity and the pit of degradation of death? Poe made the reader feel as if the reader were there, in the story, struggling with the same terrors of the characters. All his famous mystery thriller works give the reader a sense of nervousness, a sense of fear, and a sense of evil, by making our five senses awaken by reading every word. Critics say that Poe did not merely imitate the Gothic tales, but he also enriched them by preserving a central action while adding philosophical speculations and lore that deepened the impressions of the tales. As a result of the traumas he endured, Poe was unafraid of taking his readers for a walk on the dark side, where lines between life and death were sometimes blurred. His ability to tap into humankinds deepest fears and his consistency in portraying such intriguing and captivating themes is what has kept the work of Poe timeless. In short, Edgar Allan Poe has created many great stories for us. He liked to illustrate the dissolution of an individuals mind and body, as he had suffered it himself for quite a long time. He thought death is unavoidable, because he experienced keenly deaths all around him and its threat on his own life. He was obsessed by the loss of love of ideal women, for he had the same experience in life. Now, we can understand why Poe had a tendency of choosing such themes. Poe is an author of the inner world and his writings are his psychological autobiography to some extent. In this respect, Poe pioneered a new field in literature. He is the first one who focused on mans mental and spiritual activities, and his writings have deep influence on many of later writers. WORKS CITED Poe, Edgar Allan. Introductory Notes and Editors preface by Phillip van Doren Stern. In Selected Tales and Poems. The Viking Portal Library, Penguin Books, 1993. Moore, R. The Tell-Tale Heart: Discussion. 2002.Online. Internet. 11 November 2002. Available WWW: http://www.allpoe.com Murphy, Sally. Poes Poetry. 2002.Online. Internet. 12 November 2002. Available WWW: http://www.allpoe.com Meyers, Jeffrey. Edgar Allan Poe His Life and Legacy. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., 1992. Peters, James. Edgar Allan Poe. April 1, 2002.http://www.island-of-freedom.com/POE.HTM Silverman, Kenneth. Edgar A. Poe: A Mournful and Never-Ending Remembrance. New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 1991. Death of Edgar Allan Poe. New Brunswick, NJ: Rutgers University Press, 1998

Night Essay -- essays research papers fc

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Without a doubt, one of the darkest episodes in the history of mankind involved the systematic extermination of Jews, Gypsies, Slavs and gays by Nazi Germany. In order to get a good sense of the horror and despair that was felt by the interned, one simply needs to read the memoirs of Elie Wiesel in his â€Å"Night†, as translated from French by Stella Rodway and copyrighted by Bantam Books in 1960.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Elie Wiesel was born in Sighet, Transylvania. His parents ran a shop and cared for him and his three siblings, Hilda, Bea, and Tzipora. Early on, the Jewish community of Sighet payed little heed to the stories of what had happened to foreign Jews that were expelled. By the time Germans had entered Sighet, it was too late for the people to escape their fates. At first, they were made to give up all of their valuable possessions and move into makeshift ghettos. Next came deportation of the entire community to the Auschwitz internment camp. The way that the people were piled into cattle wagons was only a precurser of appalling events that were to come. The horror really dawned on Elie when he realized that the large smokestacks that he saw were from crematoriums that were set up to burn the bodies of the thousands upon thousands of Jews that were killed in the gas chamber. Elie paints a portrait of life in the camp, which included hours of back-breaking labor, fear o f hangings, and an overall theme throughout the book: starvation. The prisoners were given only black coffee in the morning, and soup and a crust of bread in the evening. The most terrifying aspect of the entire experience was the â€Å"selection†, the picking out of those that were to sick, old, or weak to be useful. These unfortunate souls were thrown into the fires. The one constant in Elie’s life was his father, who along with his son and all other prisoners, were later forced to evacuate to trains that would bring them to the Buchenwald internment camp deep in Germany, under the pressure of the Allied forces on the area. The final horrific scene in this book was how the interned, in mass, were forced to run full speed for hours on end, the people that lagged being shot on sight. The story culminated in the death of Elie’s father, and the eventual freedom of the Survivors of these death camps.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The way that Elie describe... ... day, Pope John Paul II apologized for the past sins of the church, but did not address the way that Pope Pious VII threw a deaf ear towards the Holocaust. What is more disturbing than the fact that their was not opposition to the Nazis by other European countries is the fact that something as horrible as this could happen again. In Bosnia and Herzegovina in the early 1990’s, the â€Å"ethnic cleansing† of Muslims and Croats by Serbs led to the removal of 2.5 million people from cities and villages, mass murders, and the internment of men and boys in as many as 100 concentration camps. Although the situation did not escalate to the point of the Holocaust, it showed the ignorance of people as to past events.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  To conclude, Elie Wiesel’s â€Å"Night† is a haunting and accurate account of the cruelty that man can inflict on man. The lessons learned from this account cannot be forgotten. If they are, then they are sure to be repeated. Works Cited â€Å"Ethnic Cleansing.† The Complete Reference Collection. 1998ed. CD-ROM. The   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Learning Company, Inc., 1998. â€Å"Holocaust.† The Complete Reference Collection. 1998ed. CD-ROM. The Learning

How do the three poems To His Coy Mistress, The Sick Rose and Essay

How do the three poems To His Coy Mistress, The Sick Rose and Sonnet 138 convey the imperfect nature of love? Each of the three poems conveys the imperfect nature of love in one way or another. Personally I feel that love can never be perfect as there are always going to be arguments that arise in any relationship. I think that two people can love each other but it will never be perfect unless there is complete trust and understanding in all situations. Another reason is that there is no such thing as perfection so therefore everything can always be better. The three poems that I am comparing are ‘To His Coy Mistress’, Andrew Marvell (1621-78), ‘The Sick Rose’, William Blake (1757-1827) and ‘Sonnet 138’, William Shakespeare (1564-1616) None of the poems portray a romantic idea of love, but more the dark side of it. Each shows a different aspect of love. However they all show that love is not perfect. Although each poem deals with the imperfect nature of love, they each have their own diverse theme. ‘To His Coy Mistress’ is about sexual desire and basically the poet trying to get his mistress into bed. In this poem the man is trying to persuade and pressure the woman. We then have a poem that can also be interpreted as sexual. An example of the sexual implications of te poem is however this poem’s interpretation is more down to the reader and how they view it. Even with its many interpretations ‘The Sick Rose’ essentially gives a warning about the dangers that love can bring. The third poem has no similarities within the theme as the others do. ‘Sonnet 138’ deals with the imperfect nature of love through the form of lies within a relationship. We can see similarities between the themes of ‘To His Co... ...e similarities within the tones but William Shakespeare’s is completely different to both of them. This poem is more thoughtful and advising. It starts as thoughtful then begins to become questioning. At the end it then develops a tone of resignation. Overall in my opinion ‘The Sick Rose’ is the poem that depicts the imperfect nature of love best. This is because it is the most serious of the poems and it is the one that contains the most warnings. In the other two poems there is a feeling of happiness. Even in ‘To His Coy Mistress’ there is a sense of love in the relationship. ‘The Sick Rose’ however does not give any feelings of happiness but instead reveals a rather dark side of love that nobody would like to be part of. It shows more the pain involved in love. The poem shows that even although people feel love it may not necessarily make them happy. How do the three poems To His Coy Mistress, The Sick Rose and Essay How do the three poems To His Coy Mistress, The Sick Rose and Sonnet 138 convey the imperfect nature of love? Each of the three poems conveys the imperfect nature of love in one way or another. Personally I feel that love can never be perfect as there are always going to be arguments that arise in any relationship. I think that two people can love each other but it will never be perfect unless there is complete trust and understanding in all situations. Another reason is that there is no such thing as perfection so therefore everything can always be better. The three poems that I am comparing are ‘To His Coy Mistress’, Andrew Marvell (1621-78), ‘The Sick Rose’, William Blake (1757-1827) and ‘Sonnet 138’, William Shakespeare (1564-1616) None of the poems portray a romantic idea of love, but more the dark side of it. Each shows a different aspect of love. However they all show that love is not perfect. Although each poem deals with the imperfect nature of love, they each have their own diverse theme. ‘To His Coy Mistress’ is about sexual desire and basically the poet trying to get his mistress into bed. In this poem the man is trying to persuade and pressure the woman. We then have a poem that can also be interpreted as sexual. An example of the sexual implications of te poem is however this poem’s interpretation is more down to the reader and how they view it. Even with its many interpretations ‘The Sick Rose’ essentially gives a warning about the dangers that love can bring. The third poem has no similarities within the theme as the others do. ‘Sonnet 138’ deals with the imperfect nature of love through the form of lies within a relationship. We can see similarities between the themes of ‘To His Co... ...e similarities within the tones but William Shakespeare’s is completely different to both of them. This poem is more thoughtful and advising. It starts as thoughtful then begins to become questioning. At the end it then develops a tone of resignation. Overall in my opinion ‘The Sick Rose’ is the poem that depicts the imperfect nature of love best. This is because it is the most serious of the poems and it is the one that contains the most warnings. In the other two poems there is a feeling of happiness. Even in ‘To His Coy Mistress’ there is a sense of love in the relationship. ‘The Sick Rose’ however does not give any feelings of happiness but instead reveals a rather dark side of love that nobody would like to be part of. It shows more the pain involved in love. The poem shows that even although people feel love it may not necessarily make them happy.

Human history Essay

Human history has undergone various revolutions, political, economic and nationalistic revolutions. Of important consideration too, is the psychological revolution that has made significant advances which helped to unravel the mysteries of human behavior. This encompasses the scientific ability to understand how we behave and why. It is not surprising that various approaches had developed namely: the behavioral, cognitive, cross-cultural, humanistic, psychoanalytic, and psychobiological approaches. Although some would readily view each approach as conflicting, they mainly vary in focus and could be viewed and used as complimenting methods (Carunchio, C. â€Å"The Study of Psychology†). However, for the purpose of this paper, discussion will deal only with the psychoanalytic approach. The psychoanalytic theory developed by Sigmund Freud had created a huge impact that went beyond the walls of scientific study. Although it has also garnered much criticism, it is still considered as one of the major contributors in the field of understanding human behavior and opened new ways of treating psychological problems (psychosomatic illnesses) which were remotely understood by previous physicians. According to this perspective, behavior is the byproduct of instinctual and unconscious forces. The mind is a battleground where these conflicting psychic forces struggle for supremacy and our behavior often represents a compromise between these forces (â€Å"Major Themes and Assumptions of Psychoanalytic Theory†). Major Assumptions Include: A. Man’s behavior is fueled by a psychic energy which always looks for an outlet to be expressed. Common psychological occupation which involve feelings and thought processes is presumed to be triggered by the libido/sexual and death instincts. It believes that human behavior (normal or abnormal) is shaped and influenced by these inner forces of which man is unaware, being repressed into the unconscious depths of the mind, since early expressions continually receive punishment. Hidden in the recesses of the mind, it becomes the very source of energy which continually strives for release. B. Topography of the psyche: unconscious, pre-conscious, and conscious The mind is represented through the famous ‘iceberg’ metaphor. The unconscious is represented at the baseline of an iceberg, hidden and comprising the largest part. At the middle is the pre-conscious. It flashes some of the hidden part of the unconscious to consciousness, just as a real iceberg is partly ‘seen’ and partly submerged. Topmost, and also the smallest part, corresponds consciousness — illustrating the little amount of human experiences that man is aware of. Painful and unacceptable information, of which the conscious part is unable to bear, is pushed down to the unconscious. C. Structure of Mind: Id, Ego and Superego It has a corresponding mental structure: the Id, Ego and Superego. Behavior is either motivated by any of the dynamics of these structures. Irrational behavior is influenced by the Id; rational actions by the Ego, while moral measures by the Superego. D. Means of Resolving Psychic Conflicts Shape a Person’s Personality A person’s trait is determined by how a person resolves these internal struggles. Onset of shaping starts from early childhood experiences. Unresolved stages would cause a person to be ‘stuck’ at a certain psychosexual stage (oral, anal, phallic, latency, genital). A person for example, fixated at the oral stage, will either exhibit to flip from one extreme of over-dependence or being highly independent (â€Å"Freud’s Psychosexual Stages of Development†). E. Psychic Determinism It assumes that nothing is accidental. Forgetting or remember something, ‘slips of the tongue’, or content of dreams are seen as influenced by hidden causes (in the unconscious) which are only looking for expressions. The goal of psychoanalysis is in reliving events or probing into hidden causes in order that conflicts will be resolved in the consciousness. F. Defense Mechanisms An integral part of maintaining human functioning includes defense mechanisms. Unpleasant thoughts or events which prove too painful for the conscious to tolerate are rerouted to the unconscious by means of defense mechanisms. G. Objective of Therapy is to Help Resolve Psychological Problems Through Probing into the Unconscious The goal of therapy is to help a person resolve unconscious conflicts. These hidden conflicts are brought to the fore by means of free association, wherein a person says whatever came to mind and to let one association lead freely to another, regardless of whether it is logical or irrational. It also uses hypnosis to achieve its objective (R. Smith, I. Sarason, and B. Sarason. â€Å"Psychodynamic Perspective: The Forces Within†). References: 1. Carunchio, Clotilde. â€Å"The Study of Psychology†.PowerPoint presentation taken from http://www. unich. it/facolta/psicologia/matdid0607/carunchio/thestydyofpsychology. pdf 2. â€Å"Major Themes and Assumptions of Psychoanalytic Theory†. http://www. wilderdom. com/personality/L8-1MajorThemesAssumptionsPsychoanalytic. html. 3. â€Å"Freud’s Psychosexual Stages of Development: Oral, anal, Phallic, Latency, Genital†. http://www. wilderdom. com/personality/L8-5FreudPsychosexualStagesDevelopment. html 4. Smith, R. , Irwin and Barbara Sarason. â€Å"Psychodynamic Perspective: The Forces Within†. Psychology: Frontiers of Behavior. Harper and Row, Inc. 1986.

Masters Dissertation Writing Tips

Masters Dissertation Writing Tips Masters Dissertation Writing Tips There are several important tasks every student has to face during the process of studying, and writing a masters dissertation is one of them. The first thing worth mentioning about a dissertation is that it needs to be done well in order to get a masters degree. So, as you can see, we shouldnt underestimate all the responsibility of writing such kind of a task. Needless to say, that such a big responsibility makes you feel worried and tense all the time, even if you have enough time and there is no obvious reason for that. It seems like every student has fear for deadlines. Well, it is clear why: writing is a creative task and creativity shouldnt be limited by anything. On the other hand, even if you are pressed for time, you can write faster and cope with your tasks more effectively. Lets try to figure out how to do it right. The first step is choosing a topic you are interested in. You must be sure there is enough information to use for the topic you choose. Moreover, it should be relevant so that your teachers are also interested in what they are going to read. Try to look back at everything youve learned before and understand what particular topic was interesting for you. You may also choose something new, but be sure to consult your teacher to know whether it is suitable for your task. Your next step should be gathering all the necessary information before you will start writing. Once youve done that, make a plan in order to know the structure of a paper you are going to write. Take your notebook with you wherever you go because good ideas can come out of the blue. When you finally start writing, you should clearly see the outline of your paper. Do not put this stage off because you need to have enough time to edit and proofread your paper in the end. Keep in mind that you are writing an academic paper, so your language should be formal. No jargon or slang is accepted here. No matter how attentive you are while writing, you should look through your paper when you finish it to see whether there are any mistakes. Follow these tips and dissertation writing wont be a difficulty anymore. All the tips written above will work fine if you have enough time. Otherwise, you will need some help to cope with your task well. One of our experienced writers can help you out with your Masters dissertation. All you need to do is to place an order and tell our writer what kind of task you have and the deadline by which the task should be done. Save your time and effort and get the paper you need.

Research on the Polar Ice Caps essays

Research on the Polar Ice Caps essays The polar ice caps are some of natures most impressive features because, while they may seem like frozen chunks of ice, they are actually indicators of life on Earth. Maynard Miller maintains that polar ice caps can be defined as domelike glacial masses, usually at high elevation (Miller). The cover the North and South poles, including outreaching areas such as the Artic Ocean and Antarctica. While they appear to be domelike, they can vary in thicknesses. Some parts of the ice caps are only a few meters thick while other areas are several miles (Science Online) thick. They remain frozen year-round and they serve as sources for glaciers that feed ice into the polar seas in the form of icebergs (Science Online). They can form the central nourishment area of an ice field at the crest of a mountain range, or they may exist in isolated positions as separate glacial units in themselves (Miller). They are frozen all year and, as we might expect, they are very cold. Some temperatures h ave been recorded at -126.8Â ° Fahrenheit. Since they are so cold, they double as deep-freeze storage units holding scientifically and geologically useful information (Science Online). While it is agreed that the ice caps have been around a long time (millions of years), there is disagreement over how long they been on the Earth in their current form. However, there is not a question regarding their evolution. Most scientists agree that the caps have undergone contraction and expansion through some 26 different glaciations in just the past few million years (Science Online). This growth can be caused by a number of things, including global temperatures. The primary reason that polar caps experience change is a small drop in temperature. This can be no more than 15Â ° Fahrenheit. The effect that such changes in climate have on the caps has gained attention of late because it ...

The eNotes Blog 8 Books by Black Women to Read for Black HistoryMonth

8 Books by Black Women to Read for Black HistoryMonth In honor of Black History Month, we’re highlighting stories by black women. All of these selections illustrate the complexities that black women have faced when confronting new destinations or social realities. Because of a history of gender and racial bias, black women writers have been underrepresented in the literary canon. In broadening the landscape the literature were sharing in the classroom, it’s crucial to raise the visibility of the work of black women writers and listen to their stories. From memoirs to historical fiction, novels to short stories, these eight works by black women writers offer thought-provoking social commentary and unrelenting honesty. 1. Becoming  by Michelle Obama Page count: 426 Genre: Memoir Publish date: 2018 There’s a reason why Becoming has taken a steady spot on several bestseller lists. The memoir is an invitation into Michelle Obama’s private world, sharing the intimate experiences that have shaped her into one of the most iconic women of our time. She shares the triumphs and setbacks from her humble beginnings on the  South Side of Chicago to her historical residency on Pennsylvania Avenue. A woman who will not be defined by one title, Becoming is about dreaming big and embracing your personal growth. 2. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson Page count: 337 Genre: Poetry; Memoir Publish date: 2014 Awarded the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, Brown Girl Dreaming is Jacqueline Woodson’s memoir told in verse. Woodson recounts growing up as a young African American in South Carolina and New York during the 1960s. During a time of racial segregation, Woodson parallels her coming-of-age narrative with her poetry as she discovers her voice through writing about her experiences as a young black woman dealing with racial injustice.   3. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi Page count: 320 Genre: Historical Fiction Publish date: 2016 Yaa Gyasi’s debut novel traces the history of two families from Africa: one that was sold into slavery and one that was spared. The chapters alternate between the descendants of the two families, each generation representing a different time period of the shared African American experience in the United States. The intersecting narratives explore a long, dark history of oppression, providing different lenses into the past. Gyasi’s novel is a reminder that â€Å"history is storytelling† and listening to the voices of those silenced and suppressed will help us understand what has shaped the present.    4. Kindred by Octavia Butler Page count: 287 Genre: Historical Fiction; Science Fiction Publish date: 1979 The first science fiction novel written by a black woman, Kindred is about a 20th-century African American woman who is frequently transported back in time to the antebellum South. As she switches between her home in 1970s Los Angeles and a pre-Civil War Maryland plantation, she meets her ancestors and experiences the role of a black woman during slavery. Octavia Butler highlights how the intersectionality of power, race, and identity have contributed to the social conditioning that has influenced years of racism. 5. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas Page count: 444 Genre: Fiction; YA Publish date: 2017 Inspired by the 2009 police shooting of Oscar Grant, The Hate U Give is about a young black girl finding her voice and speaking her truth. When she witnesses the shooting of her best friend at the hands of a police offer, Starr Carter must decide whether to share what she knows or stay silent. In this YA novel, Angie Thomas addresses contemporary issues of racism and police violence by telling the story through the eyes of a relatable, young protagonist caught between two worlds. Starrs story encourages fearlessly speaking up on behalf of all of those who have been silenced. 6. The Icarus Girl by Helen Oyeyemi   Page count: 352 Genre: Fantasy Publish date: 2005 Helen Oyeyemi draws on Nigerian mythology to tell a story of a solitary, young girl struggling to find her place in the world. During a summer visit to Nigeria, the young protagonist finally finds someone she believes she can call a friend, even though no one else can see her. With vivid imagination, Oyeyemi takes readers through a mysterious series of events that lead to a haunting discovery. A novel about the dualities of identity and culture, Oyeyemis story encourages readers to explore what lies at the root of feeling displaced. 7. The Thing Around Your Neck by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Page count: 218 Genre: Fiction; Short Story Collection Publish date: 2009 In this short story collection, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie shares twelve different tales about identity and displacement. The characters are mostly women who leave Nigeria in pursuit of a new life in the United States. Each narrative highlights the complexities of the immigrant experience and the struggle to maintain connections with heritage while adapting to a new culture. Adichie is a native Nigerian who moved to the U.S. for college, and her writing provides insight into not only the loneliness embedded in migration but also the importance of acknowledging your roots. 8. We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo Page count: 298 Genre: Fiction Publish date: 2013 Bulawayo’s novel highlights the motivations that influence individuals migrating to a new country and their search for belonging. As a young African immigrant assimilating to American life, Darling experiences the difficulties of growing up in an unfamiliar culture. As the protagonist shares the differences between her home country of Zimbabwe and her livelihood in the U.S., she depicts how coming of age in an impoverished country rather than a prospering country yields different outcomes.

Healthcare Outreach and Its Economic Effect Dissertation

Healthcare Outreach and Its Economic Effect - Dissertation Example Hospital Outreach Program: An Expense or Revenue 25 2.8. An Expense 26 2.9. Outreach Program: Revenue Generating 30 Summary 39 Chapter III 41 Methodology 41 3.2. Research Questions 44 3.3. Ethical Considerations 45 3.4. Role of the Researcher 46 3.5. Methodology Framework 48 3.5.1. Selection of Documents 48 3.5.2. Population and Sample 49 3.6. Data Collection Procedures 50 3.7. Data Analysis 51 3.8. Validity and Reliability 51 Summary 53 Chapter 4 Findings 53 4.0. Introduction 54 4.1. Findings 55 Chapter 5 Discussions 64 5.0. Introduction 64 5.1. Discussions 65 5.1.1. The New Framework 65 5.1.2. The Deconstructed Nature of Outreach 67 5.1.3. The Reduced Costs 68 5.1.4. Outreach, Hospitals and Saudi Arabia Health Care System 69 Summary 72 Chapter 6 Conclusion 73 6.0. Summary 73 6.1. Recommendation 75 6.2. Conclusion 76 6.3. Limitations and Difficulties 77 6.4. Future Studies 78 References: 79 Table Table 1 P 26 Table 2 p54 Table 3 p58 Figures Fig. 1 p 25 Fig. 2 p 36 Fig. 3 p55 Fig. 4 p56 Fig. 5 p57 Fig. 6 p60 Fig. 7 p61 Chapter 1 Introduction 1.0. Introduction World Health Organization (2000) has defined health care system to be promoting maintaining and restoring health of the people. Although the definition provides a very broad understanding, context and scope, it has become on e of the primary motivators for authentic change in the health care system (Leng & Barraclough, 2007). ... Saudi Arabia is considerably a young nation, founded on 1932 (Baranowski, 2009). However, despite this fact, Saudi Arabia has provided its people comprehensive and universal coverage in their heath care access and services. Saudi Arabia has been categorized by WHO as belonging to upper middle class category (2006). In this regard, it becomes undeniable that the country is considered as affluent. The economic progress in the country, which ensued as a result of the increase in the price of oil in the world market is not only evident in the development of infrastructures, telecommunications and other signs of development and progress. The government of Saudi Arabia has steadily invested in the health care system of the country because the government recognizes the crucial role of the supposition that in Saudi Arabia health care should be made available to everybody regardless of gender, nationality and economic status (Boutayeb & Serghini, 2006; WHO, 2006). Saudi Arabia’s univer sal and comprehensive health care coverage is an attestation of the truism that economic development should permeate in all segments and sectors of the society (Stiglitz, 2009). For it is in this way, that economic development can be claimed to be working for the people, as it becomes manifest in the increase quality of life (Balakrishnan, 2010; Stiglitz, 2009). In Saudi Arabia, the primary health care provider is the government. The financial burden of the disease is shouldered by the government, thus, the citizens have been freed from the concerns and difficulties arising from illness. Despite, universal and comprehensive health care access and coverage, Saudi Arabian

Intervew Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Intervew - Assignment Example I also enjoy watching cartoon. I am the preeminent suited applicant for this position because I have enough experience which will enable me to undertake my duties well. I am a self-motivated individual who is at will to learn anything. Besides being an asset, I will do my best to help to your company. I have a positive mind and believe in continuous learning and improvement. I devote myself out of my comfort zone and achieve the best in my tasks (Chase Dream.com n.d.). My accountant position at Kings Supply chain involved dealing with irate customers. I usually talked in a calm manner so that the customer can respond in a business-like manner. I remember a time when a customer’s goods had been over and he became verbally abuse. I tried to remain professional and not allow my feelings take over. When the abuse continued, I humbly requested him to call or visit the manager. Back in college, I was the finance manager of the student union. I had the mandate to account for all spending’s in the union. The job involved working closely with the college accounting

Mycenaean Civilization Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Mycenaean Civilization - Term Paper Example This work talks about the Mycenaeans, who were known as a â€Å"warrior culture†. Although the Mycenaean civilization began in 1550 BC, the occupation of Achaeans or Mycenaeans of many areas of the Greek peninsula, especially the coastal areas, started in 2000 BC. The Mycenaean civilization was the Late Helladic civilization in 1550 BC, but after the volcanic eruption at Thera in 1500 BC, the Mycenaean civilization at Knossos began in 1450 BC. This was followed by the destruction of Knossos in 1380 BC but a revival, development and perfection of Mycenaean architecture in 1350 until 1250 BC. During the revival of architecture, the Mycenaeans became â€Å"wealthy and powerful† and became â€Å"the most powerful group in the Aegean world† . It was also around this time that the Mycenaeans invaded the Minoan civilization and conquered Troy. However, the fall of Mycenaean civilization occurred in 1200 BC and was marked by the destruction of several Mycenaean sites and was finally concluded in 1184 BC by the destruction of Troy. The paper also talks about the decline of the Mycenaean civilization. There were several theories as to the cause of its fall. The most probable explanation, however, was the invasion of another nation known as the â€Å"Dorians,† and such invasion caused the Mycenaean civilization to fall into the â€Å"dark age†. This was, however, opposed by other historians who said that the destruction of the Mycenaean civilization did not happen until 100 years after the Dorian invasion.

Self-Assessment reflection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Self-Assessment reflection - Essay Example I highly value an opportunity for independent thought or action and moderately consider frequent raises in pay. Moreover, I attach little significance in developing close friendship at work. Notably, these aspects would enhance my intensity, direction, and persistence towards attaining a organizational goal. In considering my dominant needs, my scores for the need for achievement were 19, for affiliation were 14, for autonomy were 20, and for power were 18. Notably, my dominant needs relate to the McClelland's Theory of Needs, which recognizes the need for achievement, and the need for power. However, I negate the need for affiliation. More so, I do my best at work, where I rarely spend time interacting with people. I disregard supervision and enjoy leading a project in my work. This relates to the expectancy theory, which asserts that efforts lead to successful performance and that we should reward successful performance. In analyzing the rewards that I value most, I have a score of 4 for good work, 4 for prestigious title, 3 for vacation time, 4 for job security, 3 for recognition, 5 for interesting work, 3 for pleasant conditions, 5 for advancement, 3 for flexible schedule, and 2 for friendly workers. In fact, recognition is the most powerful and least expensive workplace motivator. As such, I highly value, good pay, prestigious title, and job security. However, vacation time does not matter to me. Indeed, payment should correlate with performance. Indeed, I value piece-rate pay where get a fixed sum for each unit of production completed. In considering my view on the nature of people my Theory X- Theory-Y, orientation had a score of 25. I value people of theory Y who exercise self-direction and self-control if committed to objectives. Ideally, I disagree that the average human being requires direction and supervision and hence has no ambition. This represents people of theory X whom I must coerce or control to perform. I also disagree that everybody can acq uire leadership but agree that rewards motivate people to work. However, I am not sure whether fellow employees can influence me and whether individualism is more objective oriented than teamwork. Moreover, I agree that a good leader should give specific, detailed, and complete instructions in a work environment. Indeed, this relates to the Goal-Setting Theory, which asserts that the goals set by the leaders increase performance in an organization. In analyzing my willingness to delegate, I responded to 18 items and scored 52 points. Ideally, I disagree that delegating jobs leads to poor performance. Moreover, I do not supervise my subordinates in secrecy and wholly delegate all my jobs to the subordinates with an aim of reviewing the results. Nevertheless, it is not certain that I will get time to delegate properly. As such, according to my assessment results, a manager can achieve the greatest success in motivating me by satisfying my growth needs and creating an enabling environm ent for the development of new skills and knowledge at work. Moreover, the manager can successfully motivate me by giving me a good pay and offering me a chance to think and act independently. On the other hand, according to my assessments, I highly value rewards, which include good pay, prestigious title, and job security in my work. I also value an interesting work and chance to advance in my work.

The Grand Tour and British Masculinity Term Paper

The Grand Tour and British Masculinity - Term Paper Example Nevertheless, most of the young men could go to the various nations to increase their knowledge and, as a result, it led to many benefits to the countries. The peak of the grand tour appeared when they were sending young men abroad, the French fashions and the aspect of gender of connoisseurship influenced most of them and the view of masculinity associated them. Most of the men had developed the aspect of genders and sexuality, and their manliness had been reflected in their conduct, advising and education, and this was associated with men from the upper and middle class (Hilton & Shefrin 2009, p. 12). The grand tour was one of the memorable moments in Europe, where many transformations were made. The grand tour was done by the wealthy young men and the royal families of Europe more so England, then the Americans, who could go to various nations and stay for years. Most of these men were writers, artists, architects, and thinkers who influenced the current European country. They came up with many ideas of trade, architecture and culture, which motivated more men to be sent abroad for exploration. The places they toured include France, Italy and Rome among others, where each nation had its benefit that they brought home. They were attracted by the landscapes, cities, and a warm climate (Verstraete 2010, p. 34). They were able to travel to various archeological sites, and they influenced the places they went with western civilization. Rome attracted them with the classical heritage that ran through the museums and towns with attractive cosmopolitan centers. At first, they traveled to add knowledge to their education. However, with time, they realized that apart from adding knowledge to education, they also had other benefits that they brought back home such as the new culture, architecture and ideas (Savage 2008, p. 12). The grand tour influenced the social, cultural, economic, architectural,

Self-Assessment reflection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Self-Assessment reflection - Essay Example I highly value an opportunity for independent thought or action and moderately consider frequent raises in pay. Moreover, I attach little significance in developing close friendship at work. Notably, these aspects would enhance my intensity, direction, and persistence towards attaining a organizational goal. In considering my dominant needs, my scores for the need for achievement were 19, for affiliation were 14, for autonomy were 20, and for power were 18. Notably, my dominant needs relate to the McClelland's Theory of Needs, which recognizes the need for achievement, and the need for power. However, I negate the need for affiliation. More so, I do my best at work, where I rarely spend time interacting with people. I disregard supervision and enjoy leading a project in my work. This relates to the expectancy theory, which asserts that efforts lead to successful performance and that we should reward successful performance. In analyzing the rewards that I value most, I have a score of 4 for good work, 4 for prestigious title, 3 for vacation time, 4 for job security, 3 for recognition, 5 for interesting work, 3 for pleasant conditions, 5 for advancement, 3 for flexible schedule, and 2 for friendly workers. In fact, recognition is the most powerful and least expensive workplace motivator. As such, I highly value, good pay, prestigious title, and job security. However, vacation time does not matter to me. Indeed, payment should correlate with performance. Indeed, I value piece-rate pay where get a fixed sum for each unit of production completed. In considering my view on the nature of people my Theory X- Theory-Y, orientation had a score of 25. I value people of theory Y who exercise self-direction and self-control if committed to objectives. Ideally, I disagree that the average human being requires direction and supervision and hence has no ambition. This represents people of theory X whom I must coerce or control to perform. I also disagree that everybody can acq uire leadership but agree that rewards motivate people to work. However, I am not sure whether fellow employees can influence me and whether individualism is more objective oriented than teamwork. Moreover, I agree that a good leader should give specific, detailed, and complete instructions in a work environment. Indeed, this relates to the Goal-Setting Theory, which asserts that the goals set by the leaders increase performance in an organization. In analyzing my willingness to delegate, I responded to 18 items and scored 52 points. Ideally, I disagree that delegating jobs leads to poor performance. Moreover, I do not supervise my subordinates in secrecy and wholly delegate all my jobs to the subordinates with an aim of reviewing the results. Nevertheless, it is not certain that I will get time to delegate properly. As such, according to my assessment results, a manager can achieve the greatest success in motivating me by satisfying my growth needs and creating an enabling environm ent for the development of new skills and knowledge at work. Moreover, the manager can successfully motivate me by giving me a good pay and offering me a chance to think and act independently. On the other hand, according to my assessments, I highly value rewards, which include good pay, prestigious title, and job security in my work. I also value an interesting work and chance to advance in my work.

Industrial application of energy audit Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Industrial application of energy audit - Essay Example 1.1 Background Energy conservation is important in all aspects of our lives. When firms produce goods to sell or provide services for customers they want to ensure that their services are competitively priced. In order for this to be possible firms have to ensure that they provide these services or produce these goods at the minimum cost possible. Energy cost is one of the main operating expenses for most firms. It is also the one that is most manageable or easiest to adjust in order to gain operating efficiencies. It is therefore important that firms find ways of minimising their energy costs in order to maximise the profitability of their operations. In order to make this possible they seek the help of energy conservation specialists/consultants who perform energy audits of facilities or equipments being used. 1.2 Types of energy audits There are two types of energy audits. ... mal consumption pattern for the items in use the bills were surveyed to determine if the KWh usage was in keeping with the manufacturer’s benchmark of the maximum energy use. The equipments were then assessed to determine if there were any defects that would result in excess energy usage. The facility was checked in terms of floor area and details were gathered on the hours of use of these equipments. The exterior and interior of the building and equipment were checked to determine what adjustments and repairs need to be done to effect energy conservation. The energy manager (proprietor/manager) was questioned to determine critical areas that require monitoring. Sub-meters were then placed in areas of particular concern and both hourly and or daily consumption data was taken for the day. An analysis was done of the results and sources of potential energy and cost savings were identified throughout the building. Some recommendations were then made for energy conservation and ma intenance measures to be put in place. 2.0 Details of the Audit Process It was determined that the preliminary audit was the most appropriate since there were no complexities in the structure of the building. However, it involved testing of equipments which are not generally done in a preliminary audit. 2.1 Pre-Site Work Obtain facility and contact details inclusive of address and telephone number (Appendix 1) Steps were taken to identify the average energy use in the industry, specifically as it relates to electricity consumption. Failing that the internet was checked to determine the energy use of specific equipment Specific energy systems and energy use were also evaluated Specific equipments used in the industry were researched to determine their annual energy (electricity) consumption

The Green Community Essay Example for Free

The Green Community Essay Our world has grown significantly and will continue to grow, as our species continues to flourish, unfortunately this constant flourishing of humans, advancing of technology, and the declining in common values will lessen the sense of community in our world. Let’s say that there is a chance to live in a community that have the same common values as you do, this community would base their values on reducing their carbon footprint the name of this society is Ecovillage, the civilization would focus on citizenship, health, and education. In our society today, the communities with a common purpose are called an intentional community and they are commonly referred to as communes. Some of the intentional communities are the Cambridge Zen center, Catholic Worker Communities, and the common ground community. There are over 12,000 intentional communities in North America according to the website www. communa. org, many of them base their values on nature, therapy, and spirituality. Intentional communities are often associated with â€Å"Hippiesâ€Å", which makes them have a negative connotation. The communes in the sixties were mostly populated by young people who were working against society, they were often rioting against the war in Vietnam. Now days the intentional communities are people over forty years old, they have lived in the â€Å"normal world† and are looking for something better. The Ecovillage would focus on the preservation of our earth. There will be many differences in the life of a â€Å"normal life† then of those living in the Ecovillage. The building plans for the Ecovillage are the following, the buildings will be skyscrapers to prevent damage to the forests that would surround our urban city, each building will have grid-connected solar panels that will produce energy for the entire building, there will be a 15,000 gallon water tank and each family will be allowed to use 150/gallons of water, all clothes will be washed on the rooftops of the buildings where there will be a tub always clean and ready for use, food will be organically grown in the â€Å"green house office† located on the rooftop of the public school. School will be a priority for the community we will educate all students of the dangers of harming the earth, as some in some schools â€Å" funding was often inadequate† ( Alvord 301) funding will never be a problem. The community will be a success, with the help of the community members living their lives as normal as possible. The city will have limitations of how you should live. There are no restraints toward the religion, beliefs, and educational preferences. There will always be a sense of community. There will be â€Å"community days† that will help the members remember the purpose of living in the Ecovillage and to slow down the pace of everyone’s busy lives as Thoreau wrote â€Å" Why should we live with such a hurry and waste of life? † ( Thoreau 276) . They will be able to enjoy many activities such as: the gathering of people at seasonal markets, art and craft events, outdoor movies, tree-planting days, live music events, mosaic days, shared dinners, BBQ’s, and picnics. The community’s proposal will be â€Å"Care for the earth and care for the people. Self-sustaining eco-villages will require primary inputs in Health, Education, and develop localized wealth, good Citizenship and Environmental balance. This can only be achieved by optimizing natural resources through cost effective energy provisions, intensive agriculture, and communication. The ideas of all families will be put into account to make the Ecovillage like the communities that Etzioni wrote about in The New Community â€Å" Communities that balance both diversity and unity† ( Etzioni 294), when the goals have been reached the rest of the world is expected to follow the examples of the Ecovillage. The development of this city will significantly change the way of how humanity looks at how we live. This city will provide many people with an alternative way of living and many people will come to realize the cost effective and beautiful place that Ecovillage will provide. Ecovillage will be the best intentional community ever created.

Real Existing Socialism and State Socialism in Romania

Real Existing Socialism and State Socialism in Romania â€Å"Real existing socialism in the GDR and State Socialism in Romania:  A Comparison Introduction Over the course of the last two decades, following the collapse of communism in Russia and other Eastern Bloc states, there has been a considerable amount of debate in academic and political circle relating to the re-definition of socialism, which as a political ideology then became separated from communism. In its purist form, socialism is perceived as the organisational concept within a society whereby the means of production, including factories and farms, is deemed to be held in ownership terms by the whole of a particular community or nation (Caldwell 2003, p.17). Thus, in theory every worker and citizen should benefit equally from his or her share of that ownership. However, as with every other political ideology, in practice such purism does not exist. However, as with other forms of political ideology, a perfect form of socialism does not exist within any national state. As has been witnessed in the Eastern Bloc countries in Europe, there is a significant difference in the way that socialism manifests itself in individual cultures and nations, and this depends upon the prevailing political structure and cultural environment. For example, whilst there are democratic and dictatorship led countries that exercise a socialist agenda, this does not equate to the method of state socialism practiced in other states, even those within the same region. The purpose of this study is to compare two distinct forms of socialism; at the same time seeking to distinguish between the ways that each is operated in their respective societies. To assist with this objective, it is intended to use two nations that have experienced differing political structures. These are GDR[1], which operates a system known as â€Å"real existing socialism† and Romania, which enjoys a state socialism political environment. Socialism There has been a substantial amount of literature produced that has concentrated upon the study of socialism. Much of this has concentrated upon the various divergent forms of the ideology that have emerged within and outside of a communist environment. Although there is still some debate about terminology for these divergent forms of socialism, the vast majority have adapted the two most prominent as being â€Å"real existing socialism† and â€Å"state socialism.† Real existing socialism The studies that have led to the defining of real socialism only really commenced following the breakdown of socialism in areas such as the former communist block (Von Hirschhausen 1995, p.8). From this it has been found that the foundations of real socialism bore no resemblance to the â€Å"planned economy† message that was being projected by the state, and thus cannot be measured or compared with the political systems that exist within the democratic regimes of the western world. Despite it’s similarity to state socialism, the real existing version has none of the unique elements of capitalism. For example, individual property rights, commodity markets, freedom of capital and labour do not exist. Economics was dominated by politics and the two were therefore closely interwoven. This in itself can be seen as part of the cause for their being a lack of planning within these economies, which resulted in problems in three main areas. Firstly, monetary controls and restraints did not exist in the sense that we know in the West. Instead, paper money formed only a part of issues such as workers salaries, with basic goods at low prices or rationed, as can be witnessed by the fact that the price of bread in 1987 had not changed for over fifty years (Von Hirschhausen 1995, p.9), and the higher priced goods were used as rewards for merit rather than available to the citizen as a right. Secondly, there was no attempt to aim for maximum or optimum output from the countries industrial plants as these formed just a part of the party’s objectives, along with welfare and house and a raft of other priorities. Unlike commercial corporations, those within this socialist environment paid little attention to profit and success. Similarly, the idea of plant closure was contrary to the countries socialist identity and beliefs. In itself, this proves the case that there was no economic basis for the nations industrial production and output. The final aspect is planning. As has been discovered since the fall of communism, the official documents issued by the regimes, which purported to be official plans, none of these where implemented or controlled within the industrial environment. This was partially due to the fact that these plants lacked the basic equipment needed to do so, and also because the state showed little interest in the results (Von Hirschhausen 1995, p.9). State Socialism There are many who would argue that state socialism is actually a misnomer. The reason for this is that in this type of socialist community, although there is a limited recognition of private capitalism, the state itself is the centre of power. This power not only includes their ownership of the â€Å"means of production† mentioned earlier in this paper, but also extends to other significant areas as well. For example, their ownership and control extends to the media, transport and communications and, in addition, to the workers, police and military. Similarly, the state uses its power to control dissidents and â€Å"so-called† reactionaries. During the communist era in Eastern Europe, what stopped the nation that followed â€Å"state socialism† from being described more appropriately as bureaucratic regimes was the fact that the state itself was controlled by the communist party, which was essentially determined as a party for the people and thus their representatives. Case Study GDR and Romania The GDR and Romania have been chosen as a comparison case study for this paper as they operate within the two different areas of socialism being discussed, with GDR following the route of real existing socialism and Romania being a state socialism environment. GDR Prior to its reunification with West Germany, the German Democratic Republic was run by a communist regime and operated a system that has latterly become known as belonging to the â€Å"real existing socialism† The economy was controlled and planned centrally by the Socialist Unity Party of Germany, who also strictly controlled prices within the economy, particularly those of a basic nature such as basic foodstuff and housing. In these cases the party heavily subsidised production to ensure that prices remained low and manageable for the ordinary citizen. As has been indicated to be the case with such political structures, virtually all of the production process were centrally owned and controlled. Even in the small private sector (around 2.8%), these were subjected to oppressive regulations and taxation, sometimes with the latter exceeding 90%. In essence, at least in the early years, and to a large degree up until a few years short of the fall of the Berlin wall, one of the central intentions of the states plan was the â€Å"total governance† of society (Caldwell 2003, p.2). However, this centralisation of control provided an ideal breeding ground for corruption, with many managers within the publicly owned business sector lining their own pockets and those of party officials, thus creating an even worse economic situation in terms of the production output of their factories. In an attempt to address some of these issues GDR ruling party moved to a more autonomous level of social control (Caldwell 2003, p.15). They adopted the slogan of â€Å"real existing socialism† as a way of showing that, although there was still a large degree of state control, the lives of the individual was said to be, to a large degree, independent and autonomous to the state, which stated that its regime allowed their citizens to live unfettered lives in private, although dissidents claimed that this pretence of â€Å"normalcy† was just an attempt to cover up the high levels of repressions that existed (Maier 1999, p.22). In reality the individual’s emancipation was against wishes of the state but by allowing it to occur it had the opposite effect to that which could have been expected, this being a tendency towards more the creation of more conflict and unrest. However, as Maier (1999, p.42) later shows, the lack of substance in the opposition by ordinary citizens was probably quelled by the measures taken by the state to repress their citizens. Whilst in some cases, such as the media, this was achieved by s strict process of censorship, as far as ordinary citizens a â€Å"stick or reward† policy was operated. For example, rationing and the reward system in terms of luxury goods, which were always accompanied by the threat that the benefits gained through these measures, tended to opposition voice down to a muted level (Maier 1999, p.49). Similarly, the dispersal of the states secret police force led to a situation where fear of neighbours replaced trust as many people responded to the implied threat by showing a willingness to report opposition in secret. This was not only done to curry favour but also to avoid becoming embroiled with the police on a personal level. Thus, as Maier (1999, p.42) states â€Å"real existing socialism thus rested on a double distortion. It transformed the public sphere into one of negotiated bargains, while it twisted the idea of a private sphere into a domain of complicity and secrecy.† Similarly, as has been evidenced within the performance of the state, despite its repressive measures, is more closely linked to the ideals that were previously expressed by Mark (2004). Perhaps the one benefit that East Germany has derived from the real existing socialism that has become inherent within the culture, particularly in terms of the previous movement towards members of the public having an element of a certain degree of autonomy to their lives, is that this has made it easier for the nation to become integrated within the larger German nation following its reunification with the Federal Republic of German (Crow 2001). Romania In certain respects the Romanian socialist structures is similar to that of the GDR. This is certainly true in the case of the party’s control of the media, which has yet to find an independent voice and the state ownership of a large number of commercial assets. However, following the fall of the communist regimes in the Eastern Block, this country has retained a communist political regime, which observers feel results from the fact that the general public are reluctant to involve themselves in politics in a direct manner (Carey 2004, p.10). When compared with the GDR it is found that the population of Romania is distinctly different to those of neighbouring countries. The culture is much more centralised in its thinking. Evidence of this can be found in the fact that most citizens within the Romanian society have a bias towards â€Å"paternalistic protection of authoritarian institutions† rather than being concerned with their own democratic freedom and values (Carey 2004, p.14). A similar situation exists within the business sector. At the present time the state controls and owns most of the production organisations and, in addition, all of the financials institutions are in public ownership. It would be difficult to sell the latter, because of the problem of non-recoverable loans and other debt crisis. Similarly, although many of the countries vast production plants are inefficient and losing money, the ethos of the ruling classes is such that closure of these organisations is an unacceptable option (Carey 2004, p.17). Furthermore, there is a reluctance to allow these to move into private ownership. Even if the state were prepared to look at this option, as Carey shows within his research (Carey 2004, p.18), the vast majority of business and other citizens in Romania are of the opinion that â€Å"the privatisation† process was dishonest. The overwhelming preference within the country and its culture is in favour of state control, particularly in resp ect of what are considered to be the most important issues, these being â€Å"prices and wages.† However, despite the views of the population, the state does have to address the issue of corporate control and, although some attempt has been made in this area, this has yet to lead to a stable environment. One of the problems they have in this respect is that the workers are union controlled and, with the current wish for central state control of wages, negotiating a productivity based working environment would, at present, be very difficult to achieve. It is anticipated that it will take some time for Romania to be able to convert either its political structure to a more democratic cultural base or its production and manufacturing industries to a situation of optimisation and a success based agenda (Carey 2004, p.229). Conclusion It is clear that socialism is still in the process of undergoing radical change, particularly following the collapse of communism in areas such as Russia and the former Eastern Bloc countries. However, as has been seen from the case study of the German Democratic Republic and Romanic, the cultural impact of this varies between nations. For example, prior to the 1989 revolutions the GDR was already experiencing a significant amount of unrest, which was being generated â€Å"from below,† in other words from a groundswell of public opinion and active opposition (Kornai 1992). This country is therefore moving rapidly towards a culture of democratic rights and away from their former position of being subject to real existing socialism. Conversely, in the state of Romania, the movement away from state socialism has yet to begin in earnest. For example, the current ruling party is still based upon a communist stance and, despite the fact that it retains control over areas such as production and the media, which in some cases can be seen to be repressive, there is little will amongst the populace to effect a change at this time (Federal Research Division 2004). However, one area that has certainly added to the differential between the two countries in terms of their movement towards a democratic culture and political environment is the location and structural differences. For example, East Germany (GDR) is situated adjacent to a Western democracy, albeit it with socialist tendencies, whereas Romania was previously surrounded by communist and socialist states. In addition, Romania has become an independent whilst the GDR has lost its independent identity within the enlarged German nation. To this extent for the GDR the dissolution of the communist based socialist environment has been a much smoother transition (Maier 1999). References Brie, Michael (1991). The General Crisis of Administrative Centralised Socialism: A Sketch Towards a Theory of Reproduction. Available: http://www.ceeol.com/aspx/getdocument.aspx?logid=5id=15370fa8-8415-4f96-8ae7-a4580ee58991 Caldwell, Peter C (2003). Dictatorship, State Planning, and Social Theory in the German Democratic Republic. Cambridge University Press. Cambridge, UK. Carey, Henry F (ed.) (2004). Romania since 1989: Politics, Economics and Society. Lexington Books. Langham, US. Crow, Graham (2001). Social Solidarities: Theories, Identities and Social Change. Open University Press. Buckingham, UK. Federal Research Division (2004). Romania: A Country Study. Kissinger Publishing. New York, US. Kornai, Jà  nos (1992). The Socialist System: The Political Economy of Communism. Clarendon Press. Oxford, UK Maier, Charles S (1999). Dissolution, the Crisis of Communism and the End of East Germany. Princeton University Press. New Jersey, US. Nove, Alex (2001). Marxism and Really Existing Socialism. Routledge. London, UK. Von Hirschhausen, Christian (1995). Five years after the collapse: The socialism debate revisited, and the limits of economic thought. CERNA. Paris, France. Available: http://www.cerna.ensmp.fr/Documents/CVH-WP95.pdf 1 Footnotes [1] German Democratic Republic

Comparing Two Charity Leaflets Essay -- Papers

Comparing Two Charity Leaflets Compare the advertising leaflet for Christian Aid with the leaflet produced by the rspca. Analyse how the different charities try to persuade their audience to change their view, and/or do something to help them, and the difficulties the charities face. Examine and comment on their effectiveness. The purpose of this essay is to compare two charity leaflets and to analyse the effectiveness and impact that they have on the audience. I will be comparing how they persuade the audience to act or think differently. The two charity adverts I will be comparing are those produced for Christian Aid, which is a humanitarian organisation, and the rspca (the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), which is an animal welfare organisation. Charities are there for support. The main purpose of them is to improve livelihoods and help people or animals that are less fortunate, fighting to survive. Charities operate in different communities and each organisation has a unique way of helping. Without these charities many people and animals all over the world would be suffering and most of them would have no hope of living. People give to charities for many reasons: Some feel guilty that there is suffering in the world and feel that it is their duty to help prevent this suffering. Other people feel sympathetic. Some of the world's major religions state that believers must donate to charity, as it is their moral duty towards God to do so. A charity usually focuses on one target and raises awareness about just one particular issue. For example there are charities preventing child abuse (nspcc)... ... to call or booklets to send off for. The audience will see that the rspca is an organised charity and this will encourage them to donate some money. Both of these adverts are very effective. They are attractive and informative. However, I believe that the Christian Aid leaflet is more appealing than the rspca advert. This is because the reader can relate more to the consequences of not having basic amenities and access to clean water and food. This advert would receive a lot of support and donations from the audience as the reader could imagine what it is like to live in those conditions. They would feel sympathetic towards the victims of this charity's project. The shocking images also persuade the reader to support this charity as they reveal to the reader what the world is really like and encourages them to help.

Animal Cruelty :: essays research papers fc

Animal Cruelty The topic of animal cruelty is one of great importance to the wold today. Why we humans have the right reserved to treat animals as lesser individuals is beyond me. Animals are fulfilling their part in the ecosystems and communities of the earth, and to the best extent that they are able. For example, a spider is being the best possible spider that it can be, spinning webs and working diligently at what it knows best, not bothering any creatures of the earth besides the ones which it needs to capture for food. We, as humans, decided that we are a much advanced life form and can basically treat anything else in this world in ways which we cannot imagine being treated. As a result the threads holding our earth together tightly in the balance are being slowly unraveled to lead into ultimate self-destruction. In 1988, 16, 989 animals died in laboratories in the United Kingdom. This was due to such tests as acute and chronic toxicity experiments, where the animals are forced to consume substances such as perfume, make-up and other beauty products and are often literally poisoned, their systems literally overloaded by the substance in question. Another testing method is the Lethal Dose 50 percent test or LD50. In this procedure at least half of the animals must die in order for the government to figure out how much a human can ingest without dying. In one such test some animals were fed 4. lb. of lipstick and one ended up dying of intestinal obstruction. In another, 7 pints of melted eye shadow was fed to rats. In yet another, mice were wrapped in tin foil and grilled in ultraviolet light to test a sun block cream for a total of 96 hours. The results of the test were that the longer the mice stayed in the rays, the more sunburnt they got. But that is not all. A wax product used in many cosmetics was dosed into animals by a stomach tube. The amount that they used is equivalent to feeding 1 Â « lb of the stuff to humans. The animals involved soon began salivating, bleeding from the nose and mouth, and had extreme diarrhoea. As the test progressed some more, the animals became emaciated and unkempt, had congestion in the lungs and kidneys and solid wax in the stomach. The infamous Draize eye test cannot be forgotten either. Chemicals are instilled into the eyes of rabbits in stocks, often for up to seven days. And because their eyes are physiologically different from ours, they cannot produce

How Technology Has Change Our Lives Essay

Throughout the years technology is in constantly changing. It’s almost impossible just to think how different the technology was. I noticed how rapidly the technology change in our classrooms. For example, a video recorder or a side projector is almost obsolete now in days. We can now rely on most efficient technology. There are some good sides to this, for example we are no longer held captive by the prime-time schedules of a handful of networks. Now, with cable, internet and DVRs, we don’t have to wait for our favorite shows. Now we can go back and watch an entire seasons that we may have missed the first time around Social media has been for me the most important change; because, we depend on them as a way of communicate nowadays. Websites like twitter and Facebook have given birth to the new concept of social media marketing. From chat rooms, Messenger, Myspace and social dating has changed the way we are communicating, Instead of sending letters to respective destinations, it is very easy to send an email which will be received instantly. Along with these social sites, the way that people put themselves in the internet has now more impact in others than it did ten years ago. I think we underestimate the power of social media. Now days whatever you put on any social site is for the entire world, and is likely to be for a long time in the future. Family, friends, new bosses and co-workers, potential clients and business partners, prospective love interests they’re all checking you out. How you present yourself in the province of social media can change your life in ways you never thought possible for better and for worse. Read more:Â  Technology Changed Our Lives

Community College Essay

After graduating high school a lot of people do not know what their next step in life will be. Some struggle between deciding to go straight into the workforce, joining the military, or continuing their education by going to college. The average person chooses college as their next step. A common issue about going to college is whether to go to a two-year college/community college or straight into a four-year university. I think community college is the smarter and better choice. People fail to realize that going to community college helps you save thousands of dollars. Not only that, but students with undecided majors better find their way while saving money at community colleges. They are very flexible and can provide students with a better transition from high school while benefiting from their smaller class sizes and campuses. As we all know, community college is cheaper to attend than a four-year university. Four-year universities cost thousands of dollars while attending a community college would cost less than half of that. For instance, the average cost of attendance at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) is roughly 5,000 dollars per year for a freshman, compared to the cost of attendance at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) which is about 25,000 dollars a year for freshmen. The cost of attending VCU is fives times as much as attending NOVA where in retrospect the same material is being covered. To break it down, tuition and fees at VCU amount to about 12,000 dollars. One credit costs about 300 dollars while at NOVA a credit costs 150 dollars. Room and board would be 9,000 dollars at VCU, while going to NOVA in most cases you would not have to pay to live at home if you are a freshman. Books would still be around the same price because books in college are expensive regardless. Other expenses would vary depending on what a student would need. Looking back on it the cost of going to a community college saves you a tremendous amount of money and would be worth it in the long run. Growing up people would talk about community college as if it were basically the thirteenth grade. In a sense would not that benefit a student more? Classes at four-year universities can sometimes be overwhelming, having hundreds of students in one lecture class. With classes getting hard from the transition of high school to college, would not a student want smaller class sizes? It only seems reasonable. By having smaller class sizes a student would naturally be able to learn better than in a class full of 300 people. Lecture classes can be long, tiring, and filled with millions of questions. In bigger classes some communication issues might occur and information might not always get to a student depending on their seating. Also the professors might not always get to a question that a student may have which can get very frustrating. Having smaller class sizes, everything is right there in front of a student. The professor is there for easier access to questions, class discussions would be more beneficial and easier to get involved with, and a person would get to know their classmates more. Smaller class sizes would help students gain a better learning experience. Many people go into college undecided on what they want their major to be. Studies prove that 50% of students who declared their majors change them after their first year according to Dr. Firtz Grupe of mymajors. com. Some students even change their majors up to three times throughout college. Going to community college can help a student find out their major while saving money. When a student changes majors there are always some complications. Some classes that were needed for their previous major have nothing to do with the current major that they just switched to. The money that was paid for those credits is, for the most part, wasted. That can be very taxing on a student’s financial income. If these problems occurred to a student who was attending a four-year college they would have wasted thousands of dollars compared to if a student changed majors at a community college. Even though money is lost in both cases, the amount of money lost at a community college is far more manageable than losing thousands of dollars at a four-year college. Think about it this way, would you rather lose 100 dollars or 10,000? Community college is a great way for students with undecided majors to discover what they want to do while not losing as much money and time. Classes at community colleges are very flexible and can help students manage their classes around other things. People who attend community colleges sometimes seek jobs while in school. One thing that could be very frustrating for a student would be having class at a time that conflicts with a work schedule. That could be a problem if a student at a four-year university had a job because not as much night classes are offered at four-year colleges. Community colleges have better options in that case. A student working a regular 9-5 schedule would find problems trying to go to school after work. At community college classes could easily be taken after work with more night classes being offered at a community college. Students can go to work then school or vice versa, go to school in the morning then work some time after without any hardships. Having flexible classes are always a benefit because they provide more options and having options are always a good thing. Community colleges provide an easier transition from the laid back high school environment to the stressful college life. As Liz Addison says, it helps students begin. High school classes are easier compared to classes in college. Grading wise and tests, quizzes, etc. Community college can help ease a student into the college atmosphere. That classes are not that much easier than that of a community college but not as hard either. It is a step up from high school in terms of difficulty and helps to better transition students into the university world. Less stress is involved and things are more manageable. Some people argue many things about community colleges. The main thing often associated with community college is commuting . People say that commuting to community college cost so much money in regards to gas. Community colleges are in your community and most of the times have ways to get you to and from school. They are called community colleges for a reason. All the money that a student would save from not going to a four-year college would cover the cost of gas easily. Also most community colleges have operating bus systems and car pooling is always an option. Another thing people try to argue about going to a community college is that a person will not gain a true college experience. Some people go through life and do not experience many things like never being on a plane, not having a dog, or even never going to a football game. That experience is not something that a student would need to have to become successful in life. The rewards of getting to where you want to be in life are far greater than not getting a full college experience. In the long run you will make up for the experiences you have missed by gaining better ones. Going to a two-year college first before transferring to a four-year university pays off in the long run. People either do not know the benefits or are two proud to attend a community college. Money is saved, the learning experience is better, the transition from high school is easier and community colleges help undeclared majors find their majors. Seems like the smart way to go.

LAW Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

LAW - Essay Example Therefore, Grapes & Vines Winery could have delivered the wine anytime before May 1, as the contract did not limit their duty to perform only on May 1. However, they chose to do it in the last possible day – May 1. The fact that the delivery van was involved in an accident does not constitute an objective impediment to performing the contract (destruction of the subject matter of the contract cannot be used as an excuse in this case), as the winery most certainly had in stock enough bottles of wine to deliver them later that day to Elin. This is a certain fact, as the bottles were delivered in the afternoon of May 2. Moreover, immediately after the accident, the company should have called Elin and ask her if she would agree to a delivery of the bottles later that day or maybe on May 2. This would have solved the problem and avoid the unpleasant situation. Therefore, the Court should discharge the contract due to its material alteration and failure to substantially perform on b ehalf of the plaintiff (Grapes & Vines Winery). In this case, Elin’s contractual obligations would be also discharged and her not accepting the plaintiff’s tender later than the due date should not be considered as breach of contract. 2. I believe that in this case, time is not of the essence of the contract.

Scan Rate Issue at W.M. Morrison Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Scan Rate Issue at W.M. Morrison - Essay Example ced inventory management process and adoption of online business process are the examples of customer centric business operation strategies of Morrisons. However, the organization is facing critical issues in the scanning process of the consumed items. Long scanning time in the supermarket chains of Morrisons is forcing the customers to wait for so long in queue. It is quite general that each and every individual can get harassed due to these issues (Slack, Chambers and Johnston, 2010, p.34). These specific issues are forcing the existing customers of Morrison to switch over to another brand as the organization is finding it difficult to meet the satisfaction level of the target customers. It is true that the organization has implemented online order processing, order delivering and online payment process. But, inadequate operation management processes affected the business performance and customer service of the organization. Several leading organizations within the industry are imp lementing advanced technological processes and tools in order to enhance several business operation activities. It is important for the organizations to capitalize on the potential business opportunities to sustain in this competitive business environment. Organizations within the UK supermarket retail chain industry are trying to focus on the recent market trend and demand of the target customers. It is quite difficult for an organization to survive in this competitive industry without having skilled and experienced workforce, and highly automotive business operation process. Operation management has become highly challenging for all the organizations within this competitive retail industry as the nature of the industry is becoming highly saturated and competitive. Skills and efficiency of... It is clear from above discussion that being one of the leading organization within the UK supermarket retail chain industry, Morrisons failed to improve its efficiency in the scan rate process. It is highly important for an organization within this particular industry to ensure effective business operation management process in order to provide effective customer service. Now-a-days, people always prefer online consumption facility in daily busy schedule in order to reduce the consumption time in cost. Several potential competitors of Morrison adopted and implemented online business operation start5egy according to the growing market demand and needs of target customers. In addition to this, the organization did not understand the real reason behind the high scan rate. Inadequate strategy development process and lack of effective training for employees affected the entire workplace performance. The organization tried several things to reduce the high scan rate that frustrates the cu stomers to wait for a longer time in a queue. The operation management of the organization increased the target for each and every executive in cash department.

You will need to pick a topic for me Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

You will need to pick a topic for me - Essay Example These are just some of the questions that plagued the venerated Philosopher David Hume. In section four of A Treatise of Human Nature (1739), Hume states that the majority of people believe that they are the ‘same’ person that they believe they were two, five or even ten years ago. Although many different aspects of themselves will have ‘changed,’ they still feel that their personal identity remains the same.1 So if we do not truly know ourselves, then what is this information that we have about ourselves? What are all these insights that only we have access to that we assume constitutes our identity? In this paper we will examine Hume’s theory that all we observe are our perceptions, not our true self. We will look at what Hume states in his treatise and discuss whether what he says is plausible in any way. Let us begin by examining Hume’s epistemology. Empiricism was a pivotal to Hume’s theories, particularly the work of Locke.2 Empiricism sought to â€Å"discover†¦the original, certainty, and extent of human knowledge.†3 Hume’s treatise was his attempt at â€Å"developing a ‘science of man,’†4 that would show and explain to us â€Å"the extent and force of human understanding†¦which could explain the nature of the ideas we employ, and of the operations we perform in our reasoning.†5 He believed that all human knowledge originates with experience, and that all of our experiences are of our own perceptions.6 It was when Hume applied these ideas to our personal identity and the notion of the ‘self’ that his argument against â€Å"the existence of a substantival mind†7 was born. His argument is a logical one, although worrying (to think that there is a possibility that we cannot know our true ‘self’). Hume believed that because all of our knowledge is derived from our experiences, and that our experiences depend directly upon our perceptions, that these

Critical Appraisal of a Piece of Research Essay - 2

Critical Appraisal of a Piece of Research - Essay Example The issue of defibrillation by specially trained lay persons is not new to the medical literature though Colquhoun and colleagues provide only a brief insight into the existing research in the field. For example, there is substantial amount of past studies exploring the potential of PAD on survival and other outcomes of PAD (Pell et al, 2002; Culley et al, 2004; Engdahl, 2002), potential locations of AEDs (Becker et al, 1998), cost-effectiveness of different PAD strategies (Nichol, 2003), etc. The studies employed both qualitative (interviewing, observations) and quantitative (prospective randomized trials, surveys) methodologies to reveal comprehensive and multifaceted data on virtually every aspect of PAD. However, the authors provided a very concise review of prior studies, and instead of analyzing and synthesizing the most credible research in the field they only briefly stated the results of some surveys and analytical works. Therefore, the declaration made by Colquhoun and colleagues that the PAD project launched in the UK many years ago relied on next to no published evidence of PAD strategies’ potential effectiveness seems to be an intentional understatement meant to place extra emphasis on the importance of Colquhoun’s study. At the same time, there are really very few studies that seek to compare the effects of different PAD strategies within the framework of one study and particularly on the national scale in the UK. In this regard, the study can really be referred to as â€Å"†¦the first report of a national scheme that has incorporated PAD into mainstream health care provision† (p.279). Besides, expanding the body of knowledge and evidence pertaining to still developing PAD approach remains an important task in terms of resuscitation effectiveness improvement. The main source of data was standard report forms

Will let you know the paper later Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Will let you know the paper later - Assignment Example In order to have a fruitful business meeting with the Australians, it is vital to have a clear insight of their culture, communication styles and their behaviors (Schroevers, 2013). For Alison McKenzie to make a commendable first impression at the introductory meeting, there are basic etiquettes that she ought to observe. Establishing contacts with the Australian business people is considerably simple. They pay less attention to first creating solid relationships, and are thus open to approaches from outside their business contexts. In general, Australians do not necessarily require a recommendation from a mutual friend to enter into a business agreement with a foreigner. Nonetheless, having such a connection is normally important, since business relationships tend to be personal (Sabath, 2002). Australian business executives are usually very occupied and busy. As such, securing an appointment with them can be a tricky task. To secure a business meeting with them, it is advisable to book an appointment a month prior to the set date. In spite of their busy nature, they are friendly and approachable. Generally, the working hours in the country start from 9AM and ends at 5PM. Thus, when scheduling a business trip, the material day should not fall within their vocational period, which is between December and February. Depending on the organization’s size, appointment proposals are usually submitted via emails and confirmed through telephone calls (Schroevers, 2013). Australians have a dominantly conservative dress code for business visitors. Australian men put on dark suits and ties, while their women while their ladies wear professional dresses or suits. In Australia, the dress code of an organization is dependent upon the climatic environment that the firm is situated (Schroevers, 2013). For that reason, the business attire may be less formal in tropical regions unlike in towns and cities like

The Lesson by Toni Cade Bambara Essay Example for Free

The Lesson by Toni Cade Bambara Essay Toni Cade Bambara’s The Lesson revolves around a young black girl’s struggle to come to terms with the role that economic injustice, and the larger social injustice that it constitutes, plays in her life. Sylvia, the story’s protagonist, initially is reluctant to acknowledge that she is a victim of poverty. Far from being oblivious of the disparity between the rich and the poor, however, one might say that on some subconscious level, she is in fact aware of the inequity that permeates society and which contributes to her inexorably disadvantaged economic situation. That she relates poverty to shame—But I feel funny, shame. But what I got to be shamed about? Got as much right to go in as anybody (Bambara 604)—offers an indication as to why she is so hard-pressed to concede her substandard socioeconomic standing in the larger scheme of things. Sylvia is forced to finally address the true state of her place in society, however, when she observes firsthand the stark contrast between the rich and the poor at a fancy toy store in Manhattan. Initially furious about the blinding disparity, her emotionally charged reaction ultimately culminates in her acceptance of the real state of things, and this acceptance in turn cultivates her resolve to take action against the socioeconomic inequality that verily afflicts her, ensuring that ain’t nobody gonna beat me at nuthin (606). The Lesson posits that far from being insurmountable, economic and social injustice can be risen above, but it is necessary that we first acknowledge the role that it plays in our lives, and then determine to take action against it; indifference, and the inaction that it breeds, can only serve to perpetuate such injustices. Sylvia’s languid regard for Miss Moore, whom she refers to as this nappy-head bitch and her goddamn college degree (601), is a reflection of her initial disregard for the role that social injustice plays in her life. Miss Moore, with her proper speech (601) and desire to take responsibility for the young ones’ education (601), is a foil to Sylvia: educated, discerning, analytical. Her informed and realistic perception of the society in which they live qualifies her as an embodiment of truth within the story, and Sylvia’s rejection of her is thus symbolic of her overarching rejection of the truth. More than just refusing to acknowledge the verity of her poverty—And then she gets to the part about we all poor and live in the slums, which I don’t feature (601)—Syvlia even subconsciously runs away from it. Don’t nobody want to go for my plan, Sylvia says, which is to jump out at the next light and run off to the first bar-b-que we can find (601). Her compulsion to stray from Miss Moore suggests that on some subliminal level, she seeks to avoid confronting the truth that the lesson conveys about her indigent state. Upon arriving at the toy store, Sylvia notes: ‘This is the place,’ Miss Moore say, presenting it to us in the voice she uses at the museum. ‘Let’s look in the windows before we go in’ (602). That Miss Moore introduces the children to the store in her museum voice is indicative of her desire for the children to thoroughly analyze their new environment and synthesize what it might suggest about social stratification; Miss Moore means to show them that, like a historically significant painting in a museum, the society in which they live is worth studying intently. Although the explicit differences between the ghetto and Manhattan are immediately apparent, Sylvia initially fails to make the implicit connections between these external differences and larger social inequity. She boggles at the concept of a woman in a fur coat—Then we check out that we on Fifth Avenue and everybody dressed up in stockings. One lady in a fur coat, hot as it is. White folks crazy (602)—but fails to interpret what she sees in relation to the disparity between the rich and the poor. Instead, all she can do is point fingers and criticize. The children’s discovery of the fiberglass sailboat marks the story’s climax and signals the transition from rising to falling action. The cost of the sailboat provokes an as yet unseen emotionally charged, one might say true reaction from Sylvia: ‘Unbelievable,’ I hear myself say and am really stunned (603). More than just being stunned at the price of the sailboat, however, Sylvia is perhaps on some deeper level stunned at the emotions that have been roused within her. It is at this point in the story that her overriding indifference towards the roles that economic and social injustice play in her life begins to yield to a real emotional response to them. Although Sylvia has begun to respond to the disparity between the rich and the poor, she is still eluctant to fully accept it: So me and Sugar turn the corner to where the entrance [to the toy store] is, but when we get there I kinda hang back. Not that I’m scared, what’s there to be afraid of, just a toy store (604). The hesitation Sylvia encounters upon entering the store is a reflection of her desire to insulate herself from the feel ings of inadequacy she is beginning to experience: she understands that if she enters the store, she will be forced to finally confront the actuality of the socioeconomic gap that separates her from the people that the store caters to. The door to the toy store symbolically manifests this divide, as the toy store itself, with is exorbitantly priced items, is symbolic of the world of the wealthy. Sylvia’s struggle to get a hold of the door is indicative of her continuing struggle to accept absolutely her disadvantaged economic situation. Once inside the store, Sylvia can no longer ignore the blinding imparity between the rich and the poor. Her discovery of an overly priced toy clown prompts her to consider what could be bought for its price: Thirty-five dollars could buy new bunk beds for Junior and Gretchen’s boy. Thirty-five dollars and the whole household could go visit Granddaddy Nelson in the country. Thirty-five dollars would pay for the rent and the piano bill too (605). Sylvia is forced to finally address the socioeconomic inequality that works against her while simultaneously conferring certain luxuries on the rich: Who are these people that spend that much for performing clowns and $1000 for toy sailboats? What kinda work they do and how they live and how come we ain’t in on it? (605). In stark contrast with her earlier disregard for economic and social injustice, Sylvia is now incensed by it. Her anger is further incited when Sugar speaks on the implications of these newly perceived inequalities: ‘I think,’ say Sugar pushing me off her feet like she never done before, cause I whip her ass in a minute, ‘that this is not much of a democracy if you ask me. Equal chance to pursue happiness means an equal crack at the dough, don’t it? [†¦] I am disgusted with Sugar’s treachery (605). In concretely addressing the existence of socioeconomic inequality and its effects on their own lives, Sugar cements its realness in Sylvia’s mind—she can no longer run from it. It is thus the truth in Sugar’s words that she is disgusted with, not Sugar herself. Sylvia’s powerful emotions ultimately culminate in her resolve to not just acknowledge the roles that economic and social injustice play in her life, but to understand these njustices and eventually rise above them: We start down the block and she gets ahead with is O. K. by me cause I’m going to the West End and then over to the Drive to think this day through. She can run if she want to and even run faster. But ain’t nobody gonna beat me at nuthin (606). That Sylvia does not run with Sugar is symbolic of her refusal to run from the truth any longer; she now understands that it is her responsibility to face her situation head-on so that she might one day overcome it. Ironically enough, in the end it is the most cynical of the pack—the one whose idea it was to ditch Miss Moore—who extracts the most meaning from the day’s activities. In his analysis of The Lesson, Jerome Cartwright addresses the significance of Sylvia’s realization in relation to how it moves her to take action: [Sylvia] is changed in a way that promises hope for her ability to respond effectively to the newly discovered reality she faces (Cartwright 61). However, he suggests that although Sylvia’s realization regarding the unfairness of life and, as a black girl, her often low position in the scheme of things (61) is central to the story, the conflict between rich and poor and the economic injustice it reveals (61) is not what drives it forward. For Cartwright, the story is essentially about the value of lessons themselves, the value of learning and thinking. [†¦] The children do not simply need to learn one lesson: they need an education (61). While the importance of the children’s education should not be underestimated, Cartwright compromises the story’s primary importance by generalizing each of Miss Moore’s lessons into a collective importance. To conflate the importance of Sylvia’s realization about her socioeconomic status with the importance of the less critical lessons Miss Moore offers throughout the day—from the uses of the microscope to the components of the paperweight—is to downplay the story’s value as a commentary on economic and social injustice. Cartwright’s generalization in this way belies the story’s true meaning. Although historical surveys of the collective economic status of African Americans point to a long-standing relegation of blacks to lower income levels, current information points to a continuation of a long-term trend toward parity with national levels and absolutely higher levels of affluence than those experienced by most populations outside the United States (Wikipedia 10). Moreover, since the mid to late 1990s, [†¦] over 1. 7 million African Americans have gone off the poverty rolls, earnings by African American women have moved to within a few percentage points of white women’s, and unemployment among blacks in recent years has dropped below the 10 percent mark (10). While these numbers are not enough to invalidate the existence of socioeconomic inequality, they affirm that in this country, social and economic injustice can be mitigated. The unprecedented access to higher education and employment (11) that African Americans have been party to since the Civil Rights Movement speaks strongly to the opportunities for change that this country affords its citizens. However, the value of the struggle cannot be lost on us. We must recognize that such fundamental change does not manifest itself overnight: it is achievable only where a lasting commitment to it is available. Change is not beyond us. Action, however, is its necessary predecessor.