Sustainability supply chain management Research Paper

Sustainability supply chain management - Research Paper Example Generally, such pressures tend to reverberate alongside an organizations supply chain, especially the big multinationals preferably dealing consumer based products (Carter & Easton, 2011). As of today, public scrutiny is on the rise as consumers are currently aware of the fact that not only the final product that needs close observation, but also the supply chain used by an organization requires close monitoring. This paper will seek to research on sustainability, supply chain management, and bring out factors affecting the functioning of a supply chain. Many supply chains among different industries tend to absorb various external pressures, which traditionally act as a reactive stance to industries’ supply chains. However, several examples exist whereby a number of supply chains used by numerous organizations introduce instruments suitable for rolling out suitable and sustainable supply chains (Elsevier, 2008). Reliable evidence from approved sources maintain that sustainable supply chain management is that which seeks to put into place socially responsible and green proactive products into the identified market. Additionally, such supply chain management introduces performing, competitive, and environmentally acceptable processes into organization’s supply chain. ... anages and cooperate the flow of information and materials of a company effectively, it is true to say that, sustainable supply chain management revolves along three dimensions namely stakeholder, economic, and social requirements. This shows that, sustainable supply chain management takes into account the requirements of a stakeholder, economy, environment, and society (Carter & Easton, 2011). Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that for the social and environmental criteria to remain active in an organization’s supply chain, supply chain members must fulfill the aspect of competitiveness via meeting the needs of customers and related economic criteria. Attributively, as theories and principles of management linked closely with sustainable supply chains continue to advance, requirement for extra or rather additional critical analysis and investigation arises to comprehend further the field. As part of looking for ways to understand better the field of sustainable and supply c hain management, this research sought to identify a number of opportunities that needed investigation. Some of them include reviews of particular lines of development concerning the intersection of supply chain management and sustainability. Furthermore, case studies or empirical fields of companies as well as other initiatives of chain actors whose aim is to enhance aspects of sustainability issues needed a closer outlook (Elsevier, 2008). Cases and concepts considered during integration of particularly relevant sustainability issues within the supply chain management also proved to require research as this field is maturing rapidly. Particularly, contributions brought about by the three dimensions of sustainability and supply chain management sounded imperative to carry out a research on them

Patient Satisfaction in Chamber Setting

Patient Satisfaction in Chamber Setting Patient Satisfaction in Chamber Setting in Bangladesh measured by Patient-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire (PDRQ-9 Bangla) Abstract Background: Assessment of patient satisfaction is crucial but there is significant lagging in this sector. Patient satisfaction is an important indicator of health care quality as well as a predictor of treatment adherence. The Good patient-doctor relationship is considered as an integral part of the patient satisfaction. In Bangladesh, this domain is yet to be explored in a large scale. Aim: It was aimed to look into the patient satisfaction level in chamber setting in Bangladesh measured using the patient-doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9 Bangla). Methods: PDRQ-9 is a short yet excellent tool for assessing the patient-doctor relationship. The data collection was done in private chamber setting by the PDRQ-9 and analyzed. Results: Though the result was not completely in line with the existing literature, the PDRQ-9 was found to a useful and brief measurement tool in the context of the patient-doctor relationship. Conclusion: Large-scale research in this particular aspect of patient satisfaction in future may provide a more succinct result. Keywords: PDRQ-9 Bangla, Patient Satisfaction, Chamber Practice, Doctor-Patient, Bangladesh. Introduction Being as old as the civilization the field of medicine is evolving rapidly [1] but there is a significant lagging in the assessment of patient satisfaction which is considered as equally important as other health measures and a significant indicator of efficiency of health care delivery [2]. As stated by Lender et al. patient satisfaction may be defined as positive evaluations of distinct dimensions of health care [3]. A parallel interaction is present in between patient satisfaction, continuity of care, accessibility of treatment and physician, as patient prefer the availability and accessibility of the same physician. The measurement of patient satisfaction is thus useful is assessing the quality of care and also subsequent health-related behaviors and adherence to treatment, at the same time knowing the patient priorities would facilitate the improvement of patient experience [4,5]. Thus patient satisfaction might be considered as an indicator of institutional performance as well as patient`s wish to become more compliance and recommendation for others, which are all related to the socio-demographic condition, the health status of community and more over Patient-Doctor Relationship [6,7,8]. Patient-Doctor Relationship, a dynamic, vital yet complex interpersonal relationship which has been put under the microscope for quite a long over the century and this mutual relationship is intermingled with the idea of patient satisfaction, compliance with treatment and eventually driving the treatment outcome [9]. Over the time the concept of patient-doctor relationship has evolved a lot and currently, patient-centeredness is the most preferred by the patients hence the health care provider focuses of patient autonomy and more emphasis over patient satisfaction [10, 11, 12]. Despite being widely advocated, the practicality of patient-centered model is yet under consideration on the basis of time constraint in consultation as the physician has to perform the daunting task of providing comprehensive, coordinated yet satisfactory to the patient and above all make sure the accessibility of the care [13, 14]. Whether being psychiatric or non-psychiatric patient it is reported that succ essful and both way, a perfect relationship between patient and physician is crucial for the adherence and better outcome of treatment [15]. For assessing the patient-doctor relationship, a brief, concise yet having excellent psychometric characteristics scale has been developed and validated known as the 9-item patient -doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9) [14,15,16, 17,18] which essentially evaluates the therapeutic aspect of the patient-doctor relationship based on the perspective of the patient in the primary health care setting [14,15]. PDRQ-9 gives the opportunity to quantify the communication, level of satisfaction and availability in dealing with the physician in regard to patient`s point of view [18]. Initially validated by Van der Feltz-Cornelis et al. this is to be reported that there is internal consistency among the items of the scale [17] and later was to validated by multiple researchers [14,15,16,18]. Bangladesh, a developing country having about 160 million people and achieving the health-related goal of MDG but lacking significantly in regard to conceptual similarity in health services between physician and patients, hence there exists violence against the doctor and lack of compliance with treatment and eventually patient satisfaction [1,9,19-20]. But unfortunately, there is little to be found in terms of literature regarding the patient satisfaction and patient-doctor relationship. So the authors aimed to look into the patient satisfaction level in public hospital and private chamber setting in Bangladesh measured using the patient-doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9 Bangla). Methods Setting: The data collection procedure was carried out in 3 different hospitals by 3 different physicians. Instrument: The Bangla version of 9 item based Patient-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire (PDRQ-9) was used as the tool for questioning patients which have 5 points Likert-type scale from 1: not at all appropriate, to 5: totally appropriate. Design and Subject: The study was carried out in the outpatient department of Dhaka Medical College and some private chambers in the city of Dhaka over the period of January 2016 to December 2016 from 214 patients with the Bangla version of Patient-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire (PDRQ-9) with purposive sampling. The filling out of the questionnaire was totally voluntary and completed by the participant themselves and assistance weas provided to respondents who were not able to understand any question. Patients who were willing to participate and able to understand Bangla were included in the study and patients who were not willing were excluded. After proper collection of data, the analysis was done by SPSS 16 and Microsoft Excel 2010. Data Collection Method: Self-reporting PDRQ-9 Bangla questionnaire and providing assistance when the patient could not understand the questionnaire. Results Table 1 [VM1] Demographic Variables Age Completed years Percent Gender Gender Percent 14-25 29.3 Male 40.2 26-35 26.9 Female 59.8 36-45 20.7 Religion Religion Percent 46-55 10.7 Islam 93 56-65 11.7 Sanatan 7 Mean  ± SD (Range) 37 ± 9.92 Marital Situation Status Percent Residence Area Percent Unmarried 19.9 Urbane 57.8 Married 78.7 Suburban 14.3 Widow 0.5 Village 28 Divorced 0.5 Educational Qualification Status Percent Occupation Status Percent Below SSC 40.9 Student 32.2 SSC 16.2 Service Holder 16.4 HSC 18.8 Business 7.5 Graduation/ Equivalents 12.3 Housewife 23.8 Post graduation 11.7 Others 7.9 Monthly Family Income Taka Percent Family Family Type Percent 1.73 Nuclear 52.8 5000-10000 10.98 Joint Family 45.8 10000-15000 15.03 15000-20000 12.14 20000-25000 13.29 25000-30000 24.28 >30000 21.97 Demographic Picture of the Respondents. In this study, authors considered age, gender, religion, residence, educational qualification, monthly income, marital status, occupation and family type as demographic variables. Age of the respondents was found Mean  ± SD (Range): 37 ± 9.92 (14-65) years; 40.2 % respondents were male and 59.8% female; 57.8% resided in urban area where as 14.3% in suburb and 28 % in village; 78.7% were married and 19.9% were unmarried; 52.8% belonged to nuclear family and 45.8% were from joint family (Table 1). Table 2: Level of satisfaction in regards to item wise responses (n=214) Statistics Q-1 Q- 2 Q- 3 Q- 4 Q-5 Q- 6 Q- 7 Q- 8 Q-9 Mean 4.29 4.35 4.50 4.17 4.44 4.23 4.31 4.28 3.86 Median 5 5 5 4 4 4.5 5 5 4 Mode 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Std. Deviation 0.99 0.99 0.85 0.97 3.53 0.91 1.02 1.06 1.17 Minimum 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Maximum 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 The level of satisfaction among the Respondents. Among the 9-items of the PDRQ-9, there was a general trend of the mean being about 4.17 to 4.50. The lowest mean was found in the 9th question I find my physician easily accessible which was 3.86. I trust my physician the 3rd item had the highest mean of 4.50. The Standard deviation for the items was around 0.99 to 3.53. 5th question My physician is dedicated to help me had the highest standard deviation of 3.53 (Table 2). Table 3: Distribution of responses of PDRQ-9 Bangla items not at all appropriate somewhat appropriate appropriate mostly appropriate totally appropriate Total Item F (%) F (%) F (%) F (%) F (%) F (%) Q 1 4 (1.87) 11 (5.14) 26 (12.15) 51 (23.83) 122 (57.01) 214 (100) Q 2 2 (.93) 16 (7.48) 20 (9.35) 43 (20.09) 133 (62.15) 214 (100) Q 3 3 (1.40) 3 (1.40) 24 (11.21) 37 (17.29) 147 (68.69) 214 (100) Q 4 4 (1.87) 10 (4.76) 30 (14.02) 71 (33.18) 99 (46.26) 214 (100) Q 5 2 (.93) 15 (7.01) 22 (10.28) 71 (33.18) 103 (48.13) 214 (100) Q 6 2 (.93) 6 (2.80) 40 (18.69) 59 (27.57) 107 (50) 214 (100) Q 7 3 (1.40) 17 (7.96) 19 (8.88) 47 (21.96) 128 (59.81) 214 (100) Q 8 6 (2.80) 14 (6.54) 20 (9.35) 49 (22.90) 125 (58.41) 214 (100) Q 9 8 (3.74) 19 (8.88) 58 (27.10) 39 (18.22) 90 (42.06) 214 (100) Distribution of responses. Among all the 9 items and 5 responses, there was an overall tendency of answering the 5th option totally appropriate by the respondents as evident by the frequency ranging from 42.06% to 68.69% which were the highest for all the 9-items. Not at all appropriate had the lowest frequency ranging around 0.93% to 3.74%. Other three options had all most equal distribution though a greater tendency for the mostly appropriate was observed (Table 3). Discussion Patient-Doctor Relationship is a strong indicator of patient satisfaction as well as the predictor of treatment adherence and quality of health care. Patient satisfaction, on the other hand, depends largely on the availability of care and caregiver. Patient-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire-9 (PDRQ-9) is a brief and excellent tool for assessing the quality of patient-doctor relationship on the regards of patient`s experience and therefore a useful instrument for measuring patient satisfaction. Originally developed by Van Der Feltz-Cornelis et al. in 2004 it was based on Helping Alliance Questionnaire of Luborsky (HAQ), a scale that measures the therapeutic alliance in psychotherapy [17]. Later, numerous attempts were taken to validate PDRQ-9 in different languages. In Ad ´an et al. validated the Spanish version and Mergen et al. in 2012 validated the Turkish version, in 2014 Zenger et al. validated the German version of PDRQ-9 and in 2016 Arafat validated the Bangla version wh ich was the tool for this particular study [16, 17, 18, 21, 22]. On demographic basis Age of the respondents was found Mean  ± SD (Range): 37 ± 9.92 (14-65) years which was close enough to the Bangla validation study where Age of the respondents was found as mean  ± SD (range): 35.6  ± 10.71 and also with Nigerian version where mean age was 40.12 but not consistent with the German validation where Mean age was 50.58 for men and 50.87 for women and also in this particular study 52.8% respondents belonged to nuclear family and 45.8% were from joint family which also aligned with the Bangla validation study where 52% had nuclear family and 48% belonged to joint family environment [16, 18]. 40.2 % respondents were male and 59.8% female which was not in line with the Bangla version where 62% were male and 38% were female but was close to the Nigerian validation where male sex frequency was 47.6% and the female was 52.4%[15, 18].The origin of the respondents which in this study was 57.8% from an urban area where as 14.3% from suburb and 28 % from the village, but in the Bangla Validation version 64% lived in town, 16% in mini town, and 20% in the village [18]. On the 9-items the Mean was found 4.29, 4.35, 4.50, 4.17, 4.44, 4.23, 4.31, 4.28 and 3.86 respectively which were not consistence with either the original Dutch or later validated Spanish, Turkish, Nigerian or Bangla version [15,17, 18, 22] but the German Validation study showed means of the 9-items which were almost similar to this study[16]. It was seemed to be found that the respondents chose to answer mostly appropriate in this particular study. However, as observed by Arafat SMY most of the people in Bangladesh has the perception that, the role of the physicians here are motivated by financial gain only and thus not fully justified which often lead to violence against doctor as well as the health services providers which do not completely fit with the result of this particular study [9]. Also, the doctor leads a hectic life in this country and the overwhelming number of patients per physician also make it difficult to provide quality and patient-centered care [1]. The overall result of the study might not reflect the picture on basis of the currently available literature in this context. Limitations of the Study The majority of the data was collected from private chamber setting which might have been the cause of a result not in line with the other articles. Moreover, in some respondents assistance was provided to fill out the questionnaire. Conclusion The result from the analysis indicated a better level of satisfaction among the patients which was not quite in line with the premeditated concept of the authors as it did not fall in line with the available data. Despite this fact, the Bangla validated the version of PDRQ-9 was found as a very helpful as an instrument for assessing the relationship between patient and doctor in a very short time and both in public and private health care facility. As the scale bears only patients perspective it was very proficient for measuring patient satisfaction. In a developing country like Bangladesh, future large-scale studies to substantiate the findings of this particular study and further evaluate the patient satisfaction on the basis of patient-doctor relationship may provide a clearer picture. References 1. Andalib A, Arafat SMY. Practicing Pattern of Physicians in Bangladesh. International Journal of Perceptions in Public Health. 2016;1(1):9-13. 2. Linda .MS P, editor. PATIENT SATISFACTION SURVEYS FOR CRITICAL ACCESS HOSPITALS. First ed. 1607 West Jefferson Street Boise, Idaho 82702: 2001. 3. Linder-Pelz S. Toward a theory of patient satisfaction. Social Science Medicine. 1982 Jan;16(5):577-82. 4. Raivio R, Jà ¤Ãƒ ¤skelà ¤inen J, Holmberg-Marttila D, Mattila KJ. Decreasing trends in patient satisfaction, accessibility and continuity of care in Finnish primary health care a 14-year follow-up questionnaire study. BMC Family Practice. 2014 May 15;15(1). 5. Paddison CAM, Abel GA, Roland MO, Elliott MN, Lyratzopoulos G, Campbell JL. Drivers of overall satisfaction with primary care: Evidence from the English general practice patient survey. Health Expectations. 2013 May 30;18(5):1081-92. 6. Konà © Pà ©foyo AJ, Wodchis WP. Organizational performance impacting patient satisfaction in Ontario hospitals: A multilevel analysis. BMC Research Notes. 2013;6(1):509. 7. Jackson JL, Chamberlin J, Kroenke K. Predictors of patient satisfaction. Social Science Medicine. 2001 Feb;52(4):609-20. 8. Rahmqvist M, Bara A. Patient characteristics and quality dimensions related to patient satisfaction. International Journal for Quality in Health Care. 2010 Feb 3;22(2):86-92. 9. Arafat SMY. Doctor Patient Relationship: an Untouched Issue in Bangladesh. International Journal of Psychiatry. 2016 Jul 16;1(1):2. 10. Kaba R, Sooriakumaran P. The evolution of the doctor-patient relationship. International Journal of Surgery. 2007 Feb;5(1):57-65. 11. Ridd M, Shaw A, Lewis G, Salisbury C. The patient-doctor relationship: A synthesis of the qualitative literature on patients perspectives. British Journal of General Practice. 2009 Apr 1;59(561):116-33. 12. Bensing JM, Tromp F, van Dulmen S, van den Brink-Muinen A, Verheul W, Schellevis FG. Shifts in doctor-patient communication between 1986 and 2002: A study of videotaped general practice consultations with hypertension patients. BMC Family Practice. 2006 Oct 25;7(1). 13. Little P, Everitt H, Williamson I, Warner G, Moore M, Gould C, Ferrier K, Payne S. Observational study of effect of patient centredness and positive approach on outcomes of general practice consultations. BMJ. 2001 Oct 20;323(7318):908-11. 14. Porcerelli JH, Murdoch W, Morris P, Fowler S. The Patient-Doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9) in primary care: A validity study. Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings. 2014 Aug 9;21(3):291-6. 15. Aloba O, Esan O, Alimi T. Psychometric qualities of the 9 item patient doctor relationship questionnaire in stable Nigerian patients with schizophrenia. Journal of Behavioral Health. 2015;4(4):112. 16. Zenger M, Schaefert R, van der Feltz-Cornelis C, Brà ¤hler E, Hà ¤user W. Validation of the patient-doctor-relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9) in a representative cross-sectional German Population survey. PLoS ONE. 2014 Mar 17;9(3):e91964. 17. Van der Feltz-Cornelis CM, Van Oppen P, Van Marwijk HWJ, De Beurs E, Van Dyck R. A patient-doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9) in primary care: Development and psychometric evaluation. General Hospital Psychiatry. 2004 Mar;26(2):115-20. 18. Arafat SMY. Psychometric validation of the Bangla version of the patient-doctor relationship questionnaire. Psychiatry Journal. 2016;2016:4. 19. Uddin MS, Ahmed MSR, Arafat SMY. Does mind exist in physicians mind? A brief phone survey in Bangladesh. International Journal of Neurorehabilitation. 2016;03(06):234 20. Arafat SMY, Uddin MS, Chowdhury EZ, Huq N, Chouudhury SR, Chowdhury MHR. Demography and Diagnosis of Patients Received Emergency Medical Service from Two Private Psychiatric Hospital in Dhaka City. Int J Neurorehabilitation. 2016;3(6):240. 21. Mergen H, Van der Feltz-Cornelis CM, KaraoÄÅ ¸lu N, Ongel K. Validity of the Turkish patient-doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-Turkish) in comparison with the Europe instrument in a family medicine center. Healthmed. 2012 Feb;6(5):1763-70. 22. J. C. Mingote A, B. Moreno J, R. Rodrà ­guez C, M. Gà ¡lvez H, P. Ruiz L. Psychometric validation of the Spanish version of the Patient-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire (PDRQ). Actas Esp Psiquiatr. 2009;37(2):94-100. [VM1]Please enter the title of the Table 1. Also tables should be below the mentioned text. Copy the text of table 1 before the table. It goes for every table subsequently.

The Ethics of the Creation, Distribution, and Use of Metadata Essay

The Ethics of the Creation, Distribution, and Use of Metadata Navigation This paper discusses the ethical issues that may arise in the creation, distribution, and use of metadata. To do this, one must first understand what metadata is, and have a reasonable understanding of how it is used today. Metadata is not a word that the average person can state a definition for. In fact, even many technologically inclined people may not have a sound idea of what exactly metadata means. Although many people don’t recognize the name, metadata, many people look at, use, or even create metadata on a daily basis. To truly appreciate how important metadata is one must have a firm grasp on what metadata allows and how difficult information retrieval is without it. What is Metadata? â€Å"The variety and amount of information and information-dependent activities from which we can choose seems to be expanding exponentially.†1 The huge amount of information available, that covers a vast number of topics, requires an efficient way to access this information if any reasonable learning is to take place. This is exactly what metadata does. It categorizes the information created by one person so that others may find it and utilize it. Metadata could be said to be â€Å"information about information† or â€Å"data about data.†2 If metadata’s purpose, â€Å"is to enable integration and retrieval within information systems,† 3 then it needs interoperability, or â€Å"the ability of software and hardware on multiple machines from multiple vendors to communicate.†4 This means that for metadata to have a positive effect, or to actually be helpful, standards must be in place, so that one person’s metadata can be comparably likened to a second person’s metadata, and th... ...2 Amy Brand, Frank Daly, Barbara Meyers, "Metadata Demystified," The Sheridan Press and NISO Press (July 2003). <www.niso.org/standards/resources/ Metadata_Demystified.pdf> 3 Brody (35) 4Dictionary.com, 2003, Lexico Publishing Group LLC, 17 Nov. 2003, <http://dictionary.reference.com> 5Eddie Byrne, Metadata A Primer, 2000, WebSeach, 21 Oct. 2003, <http://www.clubi.ie/webserch/metadata.html> 6Dublin Core Metadata Initiative, 2003, DCMI, 24 Oct. 2003, <http://dublincore.org> 7 DCMI 8 Brody (36) 9James Rachels, The Elements of Moral Philosophy 4th ed., (New York, NY:McGraw-Hill 2003) 93. 10Manuel G Velasquez, Business Ethics: Concepts and Cases 4th ed., (New Jersey:Prentice Hall Inc. 1998) 105. 11 Velasquez (94) 11 Rachels (175) 13 Brody (35) 14 Brody (36) 15 Brody (37) 16 Brody (37) 17 Brody (38)

Imagery in William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” Essay

In Hamlet, imagery of disease, poison and decay, are used by William Shakespeare for many purposes. Marcellus’ line in Act I illustrates the use of this imagery very well, â€Å"Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.† Corruption is rampant, like a contagious disease infecting the court. The atmosphere of disease serves to heighten the audience’s disgust for the events that are taking place in the play. Secondly, disease leads to death, so the diseased society of Denmark is doomed. Because of this sense of doom, there is a slight foreshadowing of the play’s tragic ending. The tragic atmosphere is enhanced by the motif of disease and decay. These descriptions of disease, poison, and decay help us to understand the bitter relationships, the anxious, chaotic atmosphere, and also the emotional and moral decay of the characters existing in the play. The image of decay is first used at the end of Act I to help comprehend the depression Hamlet feels in his first soliloquy about suicide. When Hamlet releases the words â€Å"O that this too sullied flesh would melt, thaw, and resolve itself into a dew,† (I.ii, 129-130) he communicates how he wishes to not exist in this world anymore. An image of Hamlet’s flesh rotting and combining with the soil is produced. At this moment, Hamlet’s true emotions liberate, and his pain and his yearn for death can be felt. Hamlet continues to say â€Å"How weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable seem to me all the uses of this world! Fie on’t, ah, fie, ’tis an unweeded garden that grows to seed. Things rank and gross in nature possess it merely.†(I.ii, 133-137) Here, Hamlet feels that the world around him is useless and in constant chaos. By creating these vivid images of death and decay, Shakespeare lets us peer into Hamlet’s soul and recognize his real underlying motivations. Claudius’ relationship with Hamlet is harsh, for he harbors a great hatred for his nephew and even feels threatened and at risk when he is by Hamlet. Claudius says â€Å"But like the owner of a foul disease. To keep it from divulging, let it feed even on the pith of life.†(IV.i, 21-23) Claudius speaks these lines when he is with the queen after the death of Polonius. The King says that he is the owner of a foul disease- Hamlet. The degree to which he despises Hamlet and his goal to prevent him from ruining this new life of his is unveiled. This shows us how endless Claudius’ hatred is  towards Hamlet. Claudius’ extreme anger and frustration is displayed when he says, â€Å"For like the hectic in my blood he rages, And though must cure me.†(IV.iii, 62-63) Claudius describes Hamlet as a vicious disease traveling through his own blood. Hamlet is trapped so deep in the midst of Claudius’ utter hatred of him, that Claudius wants Hamlet dead. Only when Hamlet is gone, Claudius can be cured from this ghastly disease that he suffers. The images of disease express the genuine feelings felt by Claudius. Imagery highlights the poor, horrid relationship that exists between father and stepson, uncle and nephew, king and heir. Shakespeare illuminates Claudius’ true sentiment with these images of disease. Hamlet gravely carries a reciprocal hatred for his uncle who has now become even more connected to him as his step-father and who has also risen in rank to serve as the powerful king of England. Hamlet’s knowledge of Claudius killing his father stems his hatred, therefore Hamlet can not feel anything but disgust and loathing for him. â€Å"Not where he eats, but where ‘a is eaten. A certain convocation of politic worms are e’en at him. Your worm is your only emperor for diet. We fat all creature else to fat us, and we fat ourselves for maggots.†(IV.iii; 19-22) Claudius has just asked Hamlet where Polonius is, and Hamlet replies ever so mockingly by saying he is at dinner. Hamlet killed Polonius and hates Claudius so much that he can even speak of the death of the King’s friend with such vulgarity. By saying â€Å"A man may fish with the worm that hath eat of a king, and eat of the fish that hath fed of that worm,†(IV. iii, 25-26) Hamlet again proves his hatred towards the King. Through his blatant rudeness, Hamlet surprises the King with the fact that even Kings can decay and be eaten. Hamlet’s smart and sneaky comments have underlying meanings that reveal to us his deep, eternal hatred for the king. The images of decay and rotting expose us to Hamlet’s true feelings for the King. The morality of several characters also decay. For example, Gertrude knowingly commits adultery by marrying her husband’s brother only months after his death. Only after Hamlet’s exchange with her in Act III does she appear to feel guilt or remorse for what she has done. Gertrude may be an obviously morally corrupt character, but the center of the play’s evil plots  and true decadence resides in Claudius. Claudius’ list of sins include the murder of his brother and usurp of his kingdom then marriage of his sister-in-law. In Act III he openly admits his guilt and tries to pray for forgiveness but is unable to put his heart into it, showing that he does not truly repent his sins. In addition, Claudius is also a manipulator and a hypocrite. This is revealed in Act IV when Laertes comes to Claudius demanding revenge, and the king builds up Laertes’ rage and directs it towards Hamlet. He plans various conniving schemes such as sending Hamlet to England to unknowingly be executed. When this plot fails, he stoops down even lower as to try to poison him. But Hamlet can be said to deserve some of these instances as punishments, though for Hamlet’s moral character also changes completely through the course of the play. Initially, Hamlet was extremely cautious; he was not sure of the true nature and goodness of the ghost and even doubted if Claudius had actually murdered his father, hence his decision to not act until he was sure, as shown by his â€Å"Rogue and Peasant Slave† soliloquy at the end of Act II. Likewise, at the end of Act III he again puts off killing Claudius because he does not want his father’s murderer to go to heaven, which would occur if he died while praying. Furthermore, Hamlet was once very conscientious, but in Act IV he suddenly stabs Polonius through the drapery, thinking it is Claudius, and from that point his ethics and morality falls rapidly downhill. Finally, he ruthlessly sends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, his old friends and confidants, to their deaths simply for serving the king and also to save himself. His â€Å"How all occasions inform against me† soliloquy in Act IV demonstrates how his priorities have changed too, and he will finally attempt to act in order for revenge and also to preserve his honor. Hamlet speaks of Fortinbras’ bravery and his own cowardice and concludes, â€Å"O, from this time forth, my thoughts be bloody, or be nothing worth!† (IV,iv,65-66) This Hamlet of bloody thoughts and revenge is totally different from the previous Hamlet who once had to be sure that Claudius was guilty beyond a reasonable doubt before his slaughter. In this play moral principles within numerous characters experience a substantial decay. It is evident that Shakespeare uses the imagery of poison, decay and disease to develop and enhance the various conflicts surrounding the play and also  the heavy, disarrayed atmosphere hovering over it. In Hamlet we truly see what a great deal of depth imagery provides us with. The imagery of disease, poison and decay gives us a chance to truly understand the complicated emotions that the characters experience in their mind and soul. The reader perceives the pervasive chaotic mood, helping them to better understand all aspects of this classic work. Also, with the imagery created by Shakespeare, we as readers, can actually comprehend the feelings that are experienced by the characters in Hamlet, that are not always obvious, but remain definitely very important to secure optimum understanding of a great piece of literature.

The Functional to Matrix Transition

The Functional to Matrix Transition Karen R. J. White, PMP RECENTLY PARTICIPATED IN A CONSULTING ASSIGNMENT WHICH INVOLVED MOVING A LARGE ITS ORGANIZATION from an old-style functional-department organization structure towards one more friendly to proj- Common Pitfalls ects. The project faced the sorts of challenges that are common when trying to realign organizational structure with the new realities of managing by projects. In addition, there were added cultural barriers because the company was in the financial services sector-a very traditional industry, known for conservatism in management approaches. Project management consultants were called in because, for the first time, the organization was undertaking a multi-year enterprise-wide development program that cut across multiple functional departments, instead of following their old pattern of doing projects within departments. Within the program, several major related projects were being carried out. Clearly, business as usual would not suffice. BASELINE: A FUNCTIONAL/WEAK MATRIX STRUCTURE A Functional/ (Weak) Matrix organizational structure, such as our client company had in place, works well when the focus is on quality and technical expertise. Under this structure, functional managers are responsible for products created within their areas of expertise. The downside: In the company on which this case study was based, it just wasn't working. And their experience was not uncommon. The functional-based organization structure tends to undermine the authority and decision-making capability of project managers, making project success more difficult. The functional or weak matrix form of organization does have some advantages. In this case, first of all, it was the currently existing state in the client organization. Change is always traumatic in organizations and, to the extent that we could preserve existing processes and systems, the upheaval-and resistance to it-would be minimized. Functional â€Å"stovepipe† organizations take a beating in discussions of optimal organizational structure, but the fact is that they are familiar to people, and thus comfortable for them. In addition, within this structure, IT and IS departments are fully empowered to complete isolated projects within their own â€Å"stovepipes. The client organization already possessed well-established communications processes and authorities within the functional areas. From a purely logistical point of view, the staff work locations were already centralized around functional department assignments, making information sharing among team members more straightforward. There are also serious drawbacks to this organizational structure, however. For instance, communications and decision-making processes existed outside the p rogram structure, contributing to schedule and budget issues. For the same reason, true accountability rested outside the programs, somewhere in the traditional hierarchy of the corporation. For example, executive functional management, who were in fact somewhat removed from the actual conditions of the programs, made all the important decisions. Budget and contracting authority was reserved for the CIO level. Under this very traditional structure, only formal authority-something the project managers did not have-was recognized as a source of power. The client organization had made some strides in moving past a purely functional hierarchy, towards a matrix organization. A Project Management Office (PMO) had been implemented the year before my involvement began-a year after the program was launched. Unfortunately, this meant that proper attention had not been paid to project management issues during the initial planning stages of the program. Phone: 610. 853. 3679 n www. pmsolutions. com n Fax: 610. 853. 0527 EXPERT SERIES The Functional to Matrix Transition Page 2 of 4 Instead of creating a PMO to manage the program, the existing program was inserted into a PMO. However, since the PMO lacked authority for decisions and communications, accountability was problematic. As an example, program budgets and staffing decisions were made within functional organizations, not within the programs themselves and resources were not accountable to programs for deliverables. Programs were initiated by functional departments, making any kind of strategic alignment or project prioritization (portfolio management) problematic. And because project teams ithin programs were organized by functional department, not by deliverable, the physical and organizational barriers between project teams impeded communications. THE OTHER EXTREME The Project (Strong) Matrix organization, at the other end of the organization-structure spectrum, works well for crash efforts, where the focus is on cost and, especially, schedule. These types of project-based organizations are sometimes n icknamed â€Å"Skunkworks† after the Lockheed-Martin aerospace project that made this approach famous. The Strong Matrix is an organizational form beloved of project managers and organizational design theorists. To be sure, this model offers many advantages from the project management standpoint:  · It concentrates complete authority for decisions affecting a project or program within the project or program itself, which simplifies decision-making.  · Program budgets and staffing decisions are made within the programs.  · Staff members have a single manager to please and answer to.  · Resources are accountable to program for deliverables and performance.  · Clear communications paths exist. However, in the real world of our client organization, the Project/Strong Matrix model carried several disadvantages. Limited resources in certain key technical and business areas meant that there simply were not enough people to create dedicated program or project teams, and it was deemed too time-consuming to recruit and/or train additional staff. The existing staff was in dispersed geographical locations with staff not able to relocate. All in all, moving to this form was just too drastic a change for the organization. THE MIDDLE GROUND Thus, our choice in establishing a more project-friendly environment was the â€Å"Balanced Matrix† structure . This structure strives to hit all the bases. Cost, schedule and quality are considered of equal importance. The balance between these considerations is achieved through continuous negotiations and tradeoffs. Given the resource limitations existing within the client organization, we deemed it the best model as well as the most practicable, despite certain inherent disadvantages, such as the need for increased communications and resource negotiations between project managers and functional managers, the added complexity in status reporting and staff management activities, and the need for modified roles and responsibilities in IT and business functional departments. The most significant impact of the new model was the extent to which we revised Roles and Responsibilities. IT functional management now shared joint staff management with program management and had to coordinate with program management in the areas of standards and process implementation. Business functional management also shared joint staff management with program management. Phone: 610. 853. 3679 n www. pmsolutions. com n Fax: 610. 853. 0527 EXPERT SERIES The Functional to Matrix Transition Page 3 of 4 Program management staff had far more â€Å"hands-on† involvement in program activities, as well as increased accountability for staff performance and coordination of related issues with functional man agement. Program Team Members now had multiple managers with whom to coordinate absences. TRANSITION STEPS 1. Assign Project Managers. We introduced project managers from the PMO to replace functional man agers with project management responsibilities, except in those cases where we retained functional leads as part of matrix. We did this when the department managers or supervisors were the ideal choice for supervision project activities because they were the strongest technical person in that area. Once the project leaders were assigned we identified deliverables and associated accountabilities for each project team. 2. Re-define Roles and Responsibilities. We established a policy statement and matrix document that clearly identified the project manager and functional manager roles and responsibilities. 3. Revise Resource Staffing Processes. By involving functional management in project initiation activities-recognizing that functional managers often have the best insight into the skills and limitations of staff members-we made the process of assigning resources to roles more collaborative. We also instituted a formal requisition process for internal resources. 4. Revise Performance Management Processes. We implemented revised performance management processes. Project managers were added to the performance development process training classes and required to provide periodic performance-related information to functional managers. At the same time, functional managers now shared individual goals and objectives with project managers, seeking to align project assignments with objectives. Functional managers continued to administer performance development processes. 5. Establish a Communications Plan. We developed a comprehensive program communications plan identifying who reports what to whom, and when. We acknowledged the information needs of the functional management team by including them in the communications plan. Project websites were established to facilitate communications. 6. Obtain Senior Executive Support. Senior executive support for changes was secured. We instituted an active steering committee. In addition, we established clear support at the CIO level for the Program and Project Manager roles and their authorities. These steps ensured alignment of functional and program goals: functional managers support the programs, which in turn implement the business goals. LESSONS LEARNED The matrix organization will meet resistance; plan for it. Lesson #1 – Program Organization. Make deliberate decisions about program and project organization when chartering the program. Determine the important constraints for the program, know the different organizational structures available and deliberately select the one that best fits your situation. Consider geographical locations when forming teams; try to maintain team integrity within a single location. Lesson #2 – Roles & Responsibilities. Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of all vested parties, including functional managers providing resources to projects. Obtain agreement and sign-off on individual roles and responsibilities as part of each project chartering activity. Phone: 610. 853. 679 n www. pmsolutions. com n Fax: 610. 853. 0527 EXPERT SERIES The Functional to Matrix Transition Page 4 of 4 Lesson #3 – Communications Plan. Develop a comprehensive plan that considers communication needs both inside and outside the program. Consider horizontal communication flows in addition to vertical communication flows. Do not ignore the information needs of the organization as a whole. Le sson #4 – Continuous assessment. Reinforce the transition by continually monitoring the processes and climate of the organization. This is an ongoing challenge, not a one-time event. When a crisis arises, the organization will tend to lapse back into functional management accountability, as opposed to staying within program structure. Pay close attention to the communications and collaboration aspects of the program; reinforce use of the agreed upon communications plan. Remain sensitive to the communication needs of multiple geographic sites, if any. You will need to provide continuous learning and reinforcement, since functional managers are still learning to include project managers in staffing decisions, while project managers are still learning to include functional managers in problem resolution activities. Don't be afraid to change! Question how you are organized; make sure the status quo fits with the work that needs to be done. Maybe you won't change everything, but little regular tweak at organizational structure will keep it vital. Every six months or so, ask â€Å"Does it make sense today? † Prepared for presentation at ProjectWorld, October 2001 Phone: 610. 853. 3679 n www. pmsolutions. com n Fax: 610. 853. 0527

The Social and Economic Effects of Volcanic Eruptions Research Paper Example

The Social and Economic Effects of Volcanic Eruptions Research Paper Example The Social and Economic Effects of Volcanic Eruptions Paper The Social and Economic Effects of Volcanic Eruptions Paper Essay Topic: Sociology Although there are many hazards on a physical geographic scale associated with volcanic eruptions, it is important not to neglect the havoc which also engulfs the social and economic world. Both social and economic effects occur on a spatial and temporal scale causing significant repercussions in a regional, national and even a global context. It is not only the initial eruption but the continuous secondary hazards, such as, lahars, pyroclastic flows and tsunamis that have the major impact on economic and social structures. It is these factors that are responsible for the great social losses in the sense of belonging and society, the human loss of life and the huge economic losses incurred from damaged infrastructures, business interactions and the general cost of re-building. It is therefore ironic that these great economic and social impacts often affect the most vulnerable people in the world. Global Economic Pressures The pattern of financial interactions between the industrialised North and Third World has significantly changed in the light of decolonisation. Demand in both agricultural and mineral exports dependant to many Third World countries has steadily declined, whereas imports have maintained high price rates, often leading countries to incur significant foreign debts. For example, Africa debt servicing amounts to approximately 40-50% of export earnings (ROAPE, 1990). Outcomes to such economic crisis and pressures has resulted in, on one hand, the intensification of natural resource exportation leading to further forestry and soil degradation, thus increasing natural disaster vulnerability (Tierney, 1992). On the other hand, reduction in public spending results in inadequate facilities; education, hospital welfare and safe infrastructures which are able to cope with natural disasters. Increase in vulnerability of a significant proportion of the urban population to natural disasters. This results from the fact that property owners faced with such high mortgage interest rates simply ignore maintenance. (Ford, 1987) Social Aspects vulnerability to hazard warnings Although there have been several successful evacuations through effective warning schemes, e.g., Mt Pinatubo, Mt Etna, a number of serious social negative effects may also result. Within these areas many sick and elderly people died due to the communal camp living conditions present in the evacuation areas. Cyclonic rainfall compounded volcanic ash falls exacerbating the unhealthy living conditions. In other cases panic evacuation along with the threat of blighted property and falling price values also affect the social matrix of the target area. Consequently, the risk of legal action can even make prediction in such areas politically unacceptable. It has often been argued that mass and total evacuation could constitute a disaster with a greater impact than that of a natural phenomenon. It has been stated that traffic problems and accidents could occur on a Herculean scale, crime and looting, great economic loss and an acute difficulty in maintaining public services on a regional and national basis could occur in addition to the increased risk to public health. In particular risks to public health would typically affect the displaced population, often through inadequate sanitation, the psychiatric stress of uncertainty and anxiety. Consequently great social and economic problems are often incurred. This is often exacerbated in evacuation situations and when predictions are subsequently wrong. For example, in 1976 73000 people were evacuated from the Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe in the Lesser Antilles. They remained displaced for a three and a half month period resulting in huge economic losses and great social strain on both the population and government. The volcano never erupted with only minor activity observed (Blong, 1984). In contrast, the products from volcanic eruptions can be highly beneficial to society (fertile soils). In 1992, Cerro Negro erupted near Leon in Nicaragua. A thick layer of ash was subsequently deposited giving rise to economic concerns involving agricultural practices. However, within 10 months farmers were reaping the benefits of bumper harvests (Baxter, 1993). Such benefits consequently constitute an extremely powerful social and economic force. In fact it has been suggested that people inhabiting these high-risk zones for such natural benefits are gamblers by nature. Policy Response and Mitigation On a positive note volcanic disasters can be used to change unjust social and economic structures. Popular development organisations can capitalise on a disaster event to challenge and possibly change vulnerable, unjust political, social and economic structures; Disasters will often set up a dynamic in which social structures can be overturned, and relief and rehabilitation judiciously applied can help change the status quo; while projects will be the models will be the models in micro-cosm that can be used to demonstrate to government the possibilities of a variety of ways of working. (Holloway, 1989) Secondly, Andersons and Woodrows (1989) notion of rising from the ashes depicts the strengthening of local institutions and the increased capability of families to reduce their own vulnerability. Is just as much a product of socio-economic factors as technical ones. The best hope for a communities recovery in a disaster is to have a history of strong organisation; it is to this end that local institutions must direct their efforts. (Dudley, 1988) Thirdly, disasters provide an opportunity to develop effective risk assessment with good cost-benefit arguments for protective measures. For example, In La Paz, Bolivia the World Bank has been offering encouragement to the Local Authorities. They calculated that disaster prevention would cost approximately US$ 500 000 in 1987 and a total of US$2.5 million (US$2.50 per capita) was needed. This amount in cost alone is greatly exceeded by annual losses incurred through natural disasters (estimated as being US$8 per capita). Therefore with this minimal level of funding, disaster mitigation could be both affordable and cost-effective to La-Pazs needs (Plessis-Fraissard, 1989) In conclusion, the impact of volcanic eruptions will only be minimised when decision-makers become more educated and aware that there is no such thigh as a natural disaster; at most, there is a conjuncture of certain physical happenings and certain social happenings.

English media Essays

English media Essays English media Essay English media Essay The media is a way to inform and entertain people. Media is very important it allows us to get information. There are many different types of media such as; * Film * Radio * Newspaper * Internet Films have always had a major impact on peoples lives and is also historically important. For example during the first world war films would allow people to get information about the war seen as many people couldnt read or write and didnt own a radio, so the cinema allowed them to find out more things. In the second world war it was used to escape from reality because many peoples lives were horrible because of bombs dropping, their families fighting and paranoia of someone you would talk to was a spy. It also showed propaganda adverts and Pathà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ news, seen as many people still couldnt read. There wasnt any television so people went to the cinema. When videos arrived there was a decline of the use of cinemas because cinemas were expensive and took a longer time that videos. Now the use of cinemas is rising because there is a wider range of films and people want to relax from the stresses of work. A good quote about the cinema is, Cinema is the most beautiful fraud in the world. Jean-Lu Godard, this means that cinemas are fake and arent real but represent things that are real. It also shows that films are meant to be enjoyed more that they are meant to be believed. Cinemas have an important impact on peoples lives. They are needed for escaping reality and for entertainment. Films are larger than life and in many ways arent realistic. They are visually and audially exciting and allows you to create things that would only happen in films by using many special effects. There are many different genres of films such as romance, thriller, action and comedy These all focus at different age groups, genders and peoples opinions, they also try to make you express different feelings. Films are sold through advertising which can be found everywhere from posters to television adverts. Popular actors sell the film as well because people will go to a film is there is an actor in the film, that they have enjoyed their films in the past. Films are set out to make a profit but they lose a lot of money through actors. Because of the loss of money films make money through merchandise. Disney does this by giving away free childrens toys in fast food restaurants, this encourages people to go and see the film and then eat after it so the child will have a souvenir. I personally like horror films because it creates and unrealistic mood that would only happen in films, it also allows you to encounter a experience that wouldnt happen in real life. I dont like romance because I feel they show similar things in each film. There are many elements that make up a film such as costumes, soundtracks, etc. The soundtrack is sometimes something we could relate to if it is a modern film. Sound also creates a certain mood in a scene if something is scary then there would be scary music, to suit it. Costumes can make you have certain opinions about characters. They create an image for the character and their clothes usually suit their personality. Props can make you imagine certain things about a character or make a scene more effective. In the making of a film there are many more people involved than we think. For example writers, even though the script was already wrote they still had to check and edit parts of it. The director makes sure the film runs smoothly and supervises the film. The people who make the costumes have to do a lot of research to make sure the costumes represent the time, place and character. The editor has a few different shots of the same scene and has to pick the one that fits best with the film then edits it. The prop manager have to make sure all of the props look good in the film and make sure they look realistic. There is also many more people invoked. Luhrmann wanted the film to be set in Miami because of the gangster resemblance. But they couldnt film in Miami because of film prices and the amount of people there so they decided to film in Mexico. Luhrmann chose Mexico because it symbolised a place far away. The film borrows diverse styles from the 1940s, 70s and 90s to create the impact it had. They had many ideas of what they wanted the actors to look like, and went around looking for similar people. They chose a famous person to be in the film because it bring familiarity and makes people want to see it if they are in it. They chose the actress they did to play Juliet because she looks like someone you could know. Costumes help with the meaning and understanding of the character, it also tells a story about them. The costumes they chose symbolised the characters and showed their attitudes through their clothes, the words said can also been shown through the costumes, because people might struggle with the language. At the beginning there is a television screen with bright luminous green writing, this is to make it stand out more and attract your attention. The use of a television screen at the beginning make it seem more real by showing the news. It starts to say the prologue and by putting it as news make it seem more modern and you believe what is being said is the truth. The screen zooms into show that what is being said on the television is important. At the eng of the prologue there is loud modern day sounds and is moving to the action. The music is loud and dramatic. The camera technique is used to make you think that your in a helicopter and your going over the city. The title which says romeo and juliet is white and is on a black background, this is used to make the words stand out. White is also used to show their innocence and love. There is a red cross in between the two names, this symbolises the hate between the two families and could also symbolise the religious cross. In the name s there is bullet holes this represents the fighting between the families. The film introduces the parents of Romeo and Juliet by making it look like something on the news where it flashes up and they begin to speak. Over the images of fighting there is words that link to it speaking of the violence. This violence is shown to make you realise that they have been fighting for a long time. You first get introduced to the Montague boys by having brightly coloured clothes and hair, loud music and they are shouting at the camera. The camera angle is close up to their faces to make you feel more involved. Both of the families have personalised number plates, which shows they like to show off their wealth. Everything the Montague boys are wearing is bright, they are also driving a bright yellow car which shows they are wild and dangerous. They also have loud music which shows they like to draw attention to themselves, and dont care what other people think of them. When they first get to the petrol station, this is where the action at the beginning takes place, the camera angle is jerky this is to keep the story going and to show the fast movement. Luhrmann first introduces the Capulet boys by making them seem dangerous and secretive by only showing their feet. Unlike the Montagues who wear brightly coloured clothes, the Capulets wear black and darker clothes. Their car is also black and is more posh than the Montagues beach car. Tybalt has spurs on his shoes which is emphasised to make him seem in charge and dangerous. Luhrmann places a ladies collage bus between the two cars, this allows the two families not to be able to see each other. The Montague boys shout at the ladies collage, which shows they are care free and dont care about the consequences. The music throughout the scene is things from a western to show there will be fighting and gun firing. Luhrmann uses lots of close ups during the scene, such as to show fear, or make someone look more dangerous when using a gun. The camera also looks up to certain characters to make them seem more scary, but also looks down on characters to make them look more scared. There are many slow motion shots this makes it seem more like a western. Luhrmann also made it so the Montagues and Capulets are never in the same shot together, this is to show the distance between the families. They use many sound effects to emphasize movements, such as the screeching and roaring of cars to make it seem faster. To make the car sound more powerful they put the sound of a pumas roar. Tybalt is very dramatic with his movements. He is always shown like a bull fighter, by him acting elegantly such as when he ripped off his shirt or when he shooting, he uses dance steps. The scene ends with fire because it shows how dangerous things have got.

Taken Aback

Taken Aback Taken Aback Taken Aback By Maeve Maddox A reader encountering the expression â€Å"taken aback† looked it up in the Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, where he found this example of usage: â€Å"I was a little taken aback at the directness of the question.† However, he also found â€Å"taken aback by† and â€Å"taken aback that† in other printed sources. He wants to know what rule, if any, determines what word should follow the expression. â€Å"Taken aback† is used as an adjective meaning â€Å"shocked, amazed, astounded.† In modern usage, it is frequently followed by an adjective complement. Note: An adjective complement is a clause or phrase that adds to the meaning of an adjective or modifies it. The adjective complement always follows the adjective it complements and is a noun clause or a prepositional phrase. A web search yields numerous examples of â€Å"taken aback† followed by a noun clause beginning with that: New Jersey imam â€Å"taken aback† that his mosque was under surveillance Which actress thinks you’re taken aback that she’s ‘easygoing but not necessarily stupid’? Im a little taken aback that you have reg priced a Hasbro F/X star wars lightsaber at 48.00 then put it at 50% off. I was taken aback that this kind of diatribe could actually make [its] way to the general public. When â€Å"taken aback† is followed by a prepositional phrase, the usual preposition used is by, although both with and at are seen. The adverb aback has been in the language since Old English times. Two of its meanings are â€Å"in a backward direction† and â€Å"behind.† As an adverb with the figurative meaning of â€Å"in the past,† aback still occurs in regional dialect: â€Å"Werent it you I saw ride that grey mare over on Wondala a couple of years aback?†(OED example: A. Agar Queensland Ringer (2008) v. 40).â€Å"   Ã‚   The earliest OED example of â€Å"taken aback† to mean â€Å"surprised,† â€Å"shocked,† or â€Å"disconcerted† is dated 1751. This sense arose from a sailing term: taken aback: (transitive verb in the passive) Of a sail: to be suddenly pressed back against the mast, preventing forward progress, either through bad steering or a change in the wind. Of a ship, etc.: to be caught in this way. A person who is â€Å"taken aback† is momentarily â€Å"thrown off course† by some event or remark. Of the 18 examples offered in the OED for both the literal and figurative use of the expression, only four are followed by a prepositional phrase, two of which are governed by with and two of which begin with by. Other dictionaries offer usage examples with the preposition at, but a search on the Google Ngram Viewer suggests that by is by far the most common choice. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Expressions category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Farther vs. FurtherEnglish Grammar 101: Verb MoodWriting a Thank You Note

Article Review - Educational Instructional Practices, Programs, and Essay - 1

Article Review - Educational Instructional Practices, Programs, and Strategies - Essay Example The research centered on a large urban school district with special emphasis on high –need schools. Specifically, the study focused on the success of the no child left behind government policy. To succeed, the government introduced the Adequate Yearly Progress program to ensure the decline in the number of uneducated children. The instructional strategy/program AND the research that assessed its effectiveness is based on surveys. The findings indicate that missing school has a direct destructive effect on the teacher’s strive to increase the students’ academic performance. Likewise, the prolonged absences trigger a persistent negative relationship between excessive absences from class lessons to performance. The research focused on the academic performance of elementary school students. The research centered on the focused on setting up drastic school measures to address the decline in the student’s academic performances. Further, the study focused on the relationship between absences and academic performance. First, the study tracked five cohorts of elementary school children for a period of six consecutive years. The study centered on the siblings’ progress over a period of six consecutive years. The six years included elementary, middle school, and high school. The policy implications on absence behavior could be derived in terms of which data –based decisions. Second, the research zeroed in on both math and reading standardized tests. The research determined the effects of absences on the students’ noncognitive areas such as behavior issues. The study showed that the absentee students feel alienated from their classmates when they enter the classroom. In addition, several absentee students feel the presence of a gap between themselves and the teachers. The concept of the research was very good. The researchers

What are the strengths and weaknesses of an artificial kidney based on Essay

What are the strengths and weaknesses of an artificial kidney based on the use of proximal convoluted tubule cells - Essay Example In the search for alternative treatment of such diseases, kidney transplant emerged as the most viable option, which has been applied extensively. Nevertheless, despite kidney transplant being a successful option, the costs and the difficulty in finding the kidneys for transplant has promoted another alternative search, this time that entails the application of artificial kidney, based on the use of proximal convoluted tubule cells. This alternative is being widely studied and experimented, since it has shown some rays of hope that it might emerge as a viable alternative for addressing the problem. The discovery of this bio-artificial kidney has shown some potential of saving the life of people who have acute renal failures (Fawcett, 2004 n.p.). The study undertaken with 10 patients with acute kidney problems indicated that the artificial kidney that is based on the use of proximal convoluted tubule cells, is well tolerated by the adult human body, and has the potential of improving their conditions (Fawcett, 2004 n.p.). However, despite this ray of hope, there is a need to understand how the bio-artificial kidney operates. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the viability of the bio-artificial kidney, with a view to understand the advantages and disadvantages of its application. First, the strength of this bio-artificial kidney is, that it will be the first device of its kind to be implanted inside the body of humans, as opposed to the use of dialysis machines, which are connected to the body externally, and are used to filter the body waste mechanically (Boyle, 2010 n.p.). Therefore, this device eliminates all the inconvenience that are involved in mechanical removal of wastes from the body, considering that the device will be implanted inside the body of a patient, and thus will be performing continuously, as does the normal kidney (Fawcett, 2004 n.p.). The mechanical removal of human waste is associated with a lot of challenges. Most fundamental is t he fact that; the patient is not continuously involved in the removal of body wastes, but has to do it occasionally as programmed through the use of the dialysis machine. This puts the patients at a higher health risk, since the wastes may accumulate at a rate that was not anticipated by the physician, and thus cause the intoxication of the human body, while he/she still awaits the mechanical removal of wastes (Boyle, 2010 n.p.). It is in this consideration that the artificial kidney, based on the use of proximal convoluted tubule cells, is found to be advantageous, since it works like a normal kidney, without the need for programmable removal of kidney wastes. The application of this bio-artificial kidney eliminates the need to locate a patient close to a dialysis center, while also removing the need for them to undergo the extremely consuming procedure. The other strength associated with the use of the artificial kidney, based on the use of proximal convoluted tubule cells is that ; this artificial kidney is developed using the normal biological kidney cells (Fawcett, 2004 n.p.). The kidney is made up of a cartridge that is lined up with renal proximal tubule cells, which helps the kidney to operate like it was a normal kidney. This is because, the cells performs the most vital functions of the kidney, which is the filtration and separation of the kidney waste components from the vital electrolytes, salt, glucose and water, which are essential for the normal body functioning (Boyle, 2010 n.p.). Therefore, the artificial kidney prevents the loss of most important components of the blood system, which would otherwise have been lost through the

Anti-Death Penalty Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Anti-Death Penalty - Research Paper Example As the paper outlines many imaginative and cruel ways of implementing the death penalty have been witnessed through time – from the guillotine to the garrote to firing squads to gas chambers to electric chairs -- before the more â€Å"humane† lethal injection has been made the manner of choice in countries that consider themselves civilized. However, there still are some countries in the world that use cruel ways of implementing capital punishment. Worse, these are for crimes that in many jurisdictions would not warrant the death penalty, or in some cases, any punishment at all. In Sudan, for example, a married person found guilty of adultery is executed by stoning; an unmarried person receives 100 lashes. In Afghanistan during the Taliban regime, a woman and a man were stoned to death in public using palm-sized stones for non-marital sex. The man died within minutes but the woman had to be finished off by dropping a large chunk of stone over her head. This paper will a rgue that the death penalty should no longer be used as a form of punishment. Four main arguments will be forwarded. First, the irrevocability of the death penalty means that there is no hope of correcting an injustice committed against a convict later found to be innocent. Second, it violates the principle of restorative justice, which should replace the principle of retributive justice. Third, it has been proven by empirical evidence that it in no way deters crime or helps in crime prevention. Fourth, racial biases affect any objective application of the death penalty law.  Human errors and frailty, as well as the lack of adequate forensic facilities in some countries, have led to many convictions that later turn out to be wrong. In a situation where the maximum penalty that may be meted out is life imprisonment, the State may still be able to provide reparation for an innocent man wrongly convicted. He will be allowed to go free and will even be given damages. In a country wher e the death penalty is legal, the finality of the sentence of death renders any mistake in convictions irreversible.  The problem is seriously considering that, according to a death penalty information website, "since 1973, at least 121 people have been released from death row after evidence of their innocence emerged. During the same period of time, over 982 people have been executed. Thus, for every eight people executed, we have found one person on death row who never should have been convicted."  This issue has generated widespread public outrage and is perhaps one of the more compelling reasons as to why the anti-death penalty advocates are gaining ground. Says Haines (125):  An analysis of newspaper coverage suggests that flawed convictions, in which possibly innocent persons either suffer or narrowly escape execution, are especially potent threats to public support for capital punishment. The injustice brought about by sending an innocent man to prison is magnified a th ousandfold by the horrific idea that such an innocent man might be wrongly executed. There can be no recompense that may be provided to the dead. In recent times, we have seen a paradigm shift from retributive justice, where a convict is made to pay for grievances to the community he belongs to, to restorative justice, wherein a recognition is made that a crime has been committed and a wrong has been done, but the convict is still a member of the community and is perceived as a human being with the capacity for reform.  

The Globalization Crisis Explanation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Globalization Crisis Explanation - Essay Example In addition, the technological developments advanced this globalization thing and made the process even faster and more acceptable on the greater percentage. Although there are still gaps to bridge, it could be said in a general sense that the world has become one again. Even the food that we eat, in a way, brought together people from different countries to work in order to bring food on our tables. Kelsey Timmerman in her article, â€Å"It’s From Where?†, looks a lot deeper into this globalization phenomenon and presents arguments which are quite obvious but are generally disregarded perhaps because of the result of globalization also. It is interesting though, for her to bring out the issue on globalization and draw her readers to the underlying problems which should become the concern of every citizen, in every country and if it may be mentioned, especially those who are from highly developed countries. The author points out that highly developed countries like the United States should become aware and be concerned about the workers from which the finished products that reach their houses, come from. This is because most of the workers are painfully paid too little in exchange for their quite difficult jobs. This paper then wants to dissect the arguments of Zimmerman, her approach, including her writing style and purpose. Timmerman does not only inform her readers. She also questions them. This technique is quite effective for her purpose to hold the attention of her readers and get them to take action. She informs her audience to convince them that she did not only read about some distant places and fictitious people in a well-crafted narrative. She does this by showing that she dealt with the people in her article and that they are as human as her readers. She also uses questions in order to appeal to the emotions and conscience of her readers. For instance, Timmerman points out that instant coffee comes in packs, ready for consumption where in what the end buyer needs to do is simply mix hot water with it.

Neural System Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Neural System Development - Essay Example (Gill, 2008). To understand neural development different experimental approaches are done in different model system. The distinction between inherited genetic code (genotype) and the corresponding organism (phenotype) is the cornerstone of biology. Genotype is the one that is inherited from the parents. The complete individual that is formed according to the instructions specified in the genotype is the phenotype. One of the model is the simple genetic encoding, direct genotype-phenotype mapping. Deciding on how to encode the network in the genotype that suitable for the application of the genetic operators is important to evolve neural networks. To be able for an individual at the level of the genotype assumes the form of a string of identical elements; phenotypical characteristics are coded in a uniform manner. The transformation of the genotype into the phenotypical network is called genotype-to-phenotype mapping. (Canglenosi, Nolfi, Parisi). One to one mapping has several drawbacks one of the m is scalability. The space to be searched evolutionary process increases exponentially with the size of the network (Kitano, 1990), because of the length of the genotype is proportional to the complexity of the corresponding phenotype. Another method using the genotype and the phenotype is the growing method. The genotype-to-phenotype process in nature is not only an abstract mapping of information from genotype to phenotype but it is also a process of physical growth (growth in size and in physical structure).( Canglenosi, Nolfi, Parisi). By executing the inherited growing instruction the phenotype is progressively built. Below is the illustration of the development of an evolved neural network. The upper part is the growing and branching process of the axons. The lower part of the illustration is the resulting network after removal of nonconnecting branches and the elimination of isolated neurons and groups of interconnected neurons. Source: http://www.tech.plym.ac.uk/soc/staff/angelo/papers/cangelosi-in-bentley.pdf Cellular Encodings - In natural organisms folding in of the ectodermic tissue which forms the neural crest is the beginning of the development of the nervous system. This gives rise to the mature nervous system in succession of three phases: the genesis and proliferation of different classes of neurons by cellular duplication and differentiation, the migration of neurons toward their final destination, and the growth of neuritis (axons,dendrites). Several experimental approaches in modelling neural development are increasing. The above models are study focused by the paper written by Cangolosi, Nolfi, Parisi. Above models are only some of the studies done by several researchers. Reference: Cangelosi, Nolfi, Parisi, Artificial Life Models of Neural Development http://www.tech.plym.ac.uk/soc/staff/angelo/papers/cangelosi-in-bentley.pdf Kitano H. (1990). Designing neural networks using genetic

A New Computer System for Staples (part 4) Essay

A New Computer System for Staples (part 4) - Essay Example Primarily, it is needed for a widening of market operations to cover the world in scanning for opportunity and threat. The decision to enter markets outside the home country depends on a company's resources, its managerial mind-set, and the nature of opportunity and threat (Keegan, Green, 2003). Marketing in diverse countries allows Staples to reach wider target audience and take market share from an established competitor. Using the market research Staples can develop new products for existing markets or develop new products for new markets. The advantage of product originality will allow Staples to create a strong international brand image. Brand loyalty will also be important factor in increasing the costs for customers of switching the products of new competitors. Using an international market development strategy, Staples will capture a larger share of a market for current products through market saturation and market penetration. Taking into consideration rapidly changing environment and customers expectations it is not enough to operate only on a national market. Global marketing will help Staples substantially increase the level of sales (Evans, et al 2004). To get the message different types of media will be used in accordance with particulate audience. Media selection will involve choice between alternatives. Therefore, for maximum penetration it may help to select primary (first choice) media that interlock or cross support each other. If deeper penetration into the same target market, for example, is required, then vertical advertising in the media that reach the same target market will be sought. For example, advertising on commercial television may be linked with advertising in the magazine that provides the programme schedules for viewers, or local radio advertising in an area may be accompanied by direct mail or press advertising. Direct marketing refers to the marketing operations where company sale is made directly to the purchaser without any conventional distributors being involved. Direct marketing involve a number of different methods which can be used in order to reach, communicate, interest and encourage consumers to buy. The methods are: direct response advertisements direct mail and mail drops personal (direct) selling Catalogue selling (McDonald, Christopher, 2003). Mail drops on the other hand are where the delivery of promotional literature to potential customers is undertaken by agents. It may involve posting through letter boxes, handing promotion literature out in the streets, or even placing literature under the windscreen wipers of cars. It can help a company reach a widely dispersed target market, present its message in a very personalized way addressing letters directly to potential buyers (Stone, 2001). Advertisements will also be placed in the Press, on TV and radio and consumers will be encouraged to order directly by telephoning or writing to the supplier of the goods or by filling in a coupon which may be incorporated in a Press advertisement. 'Off-the-page' purchasing of this nature relies on impulse, and there is a need to present an attractive proposition. The advertisement used must be informative enough to enable Staples existing customers to make a decision to purchase. Alternatively the advert may invite the potential customer to write in or phone for a catalogue or leaflet listing the full range of services. The

Neural System Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Neural System Development - Essay Example (Gill, 2008). To understand neural development different experimental approaches are done in different model system. The distinction between inherited genetic code (genotype) and the corresponding organism (phenotype) is the cornerstone of biology. Genotype is the one that is inherited from the parents. The complete individual that is formed according to the instructions specified in the genotype is the phenotype. One of the model is the simple genetic encoding, direct genotype-phenotype mapping. Deciding on how to encode the network in the genotype that suitable for the application of the genetic operators is important to evolve neural networks. To be able for an individual at the level of the genotype assumes the form of a string of identical elements; phenotypical characteristics are coded in a uniform manner. The transformation of the genotype into the phenotypical network is called genotype-to-phenotype mapping. (Canglenosi, Nolfi, Parisi). One to one mapping has several drawbacks one of the m is scalability. The space to be searched evolutionary process increases exponentially with the size of the network (Kitano, 1990), because of the length of the genotype is proportional to the complexity of the corresponding phenotype. Another method using the genotype and the phenotype is the growing method. The genotype-to-phenotype process in nature is not only an abstract mapping of information from genotype to phenotype but it is also a process of physical growth (growth in size and in physical structure).( Canglenosi, Nolfi, Parisi). By executing the inherited growing instruction the phenotype is progressively built. Below is the illustration of the development of an evolved neural network. The upper part is the growing and branching process of the axons. The lower part of the illustration is the resulting network after removal of nonconnecting branches and the elimination of isolated neurons and groups of interconnected neurons. Source: http://www.tech.plym.ac.uk/soc/staff/angelo/papers/cangelosi-in-bentley.pdf Cellular Encodings - In natural organisms folding in of the ectodermic tissue which forms the neural crest is the beginning of the development of the nervous system. This gives rise to the mature nervous system in succession of three phases: the genesis and proliferation of different classes of neurons by cellular duplication and differentiation, the migration of neurons toward their final destination, and the growth of neuritis (axons,dendrites). Several experimental approaches in modelling neural development are increasing. The above models are study focused by the paper written by Cangolosi, Nolfi, Parisi. Above models are only some of the studies done by several researchers. Reference: Cangelosi, Nolfi, Parisi, Artificial Life Models of Neural Development http://www.tech.plym.ac.uk/soc/staff/angelo/papers/cangelosi-in-bentley.pdf Kitano H. (1990). Designing neural networks using genetic

The Importance of Authority in the Military Essay

The Importance of Authority in the Military - Essay Example From this discussion it is clear that  before exploring how authority is used in the military, it is important to understand what the word means and the ideas that it implies. The Collins English Dictionary offers up a variety of definitions, such as "the power or right to control, judge, or prohibit the actions of others," or "such a power or right delegated, especially from one person to another," or "the ability to influence or control others".This study highlights that  authority can only be gained through power, mostly due to the position that someone holds. A high up position can give someone authority over others because of their job description, which likely allows them to offer guidance to subordinates. Another component of the word authority is that it is delegated or assigned, typically from one person to another. Authority is often found in a chain of command, with those towards to top of the tree afforded more authority than people lower down the food chain. Also, au thority usually is a two-way street between leaders and followers. There has to be a relationship between each set of individuals and both should know where they stand in the relationship; only in an equal relationship will there be no need for either party to have authority over the other.  Informal relationships are often like this, whereas in formal situations authority is necessary in order to preserve some sort of organization within large groups of people.... In less formal situations, a leader will look to influence his or her subordinates but not control them. Controlling a group of people allows little room for them to be creative and think outside the box. In formal organizations, control is the preferred action because organizational structures are rigid and require compliance rather than creativity. In taking into account all of the definitions mentioned above, authority forms a key part of the success of any military. Military organizations by nature can be heated environments with little room for failure. Because of this, it is important that everyone remains on the same page, particularly when it comes to military strategy. Whenever a new batch of recruits is hired to work for the military, one of the first things that they go through is a type of boot camp. The reason for this is to shape the mind so much that it will almost do anything asked of it and not question why an action is relevant. Boot camps often require new recruit to work themselves into the ground so much that they lose all ability to rationalize and think on their own two feet. Likewise, getting every solider to wear the same uniform and sleeping in the same quarters helps them to understand that they are part of a team, but a team that has no standout individuals and almost requires every solider to be a clone of the other ones. Forcing soldiers to wake up before dawn and go on treks into forests and jungles makes them mentally tough but it also prepares them to be able to do anything that is asked by their superiors. On the part of the leaders, they are only doing what is best for the success of the military, which is to produce a highly skilled but

The Third Man Analysis

The Third Man Analysis According to the Internet Movie Database (imdb.com), 1949s The Third Man is the only non-American film to have made the American Film Institutes top 100 films of all time, and ranks number one in the British Film Institutes BFI 100, a similar list compiled in 1999. The Third Man was not only well-regarded decades after its release, but was a commercial and critical success in its own era. What is so special about this film? The creative talent involved with The Third Man was considerable, as was the creative tension between them. The co-producer was legendarily difficult mogul David O. Selznick, a micromanager extraordinaire whose other film triumphs included back-to-back Academy Award winning films Gone with the Wind (1939) and Rebecca (1940). The other producer, and the director, was Carol Reed (a man), equally as stubborn as Selznick, and a talent cited by no less than director Steven Spielberg as an influence. The screenwriter was Graham Greene, a former spy and acclaimed novelist who had nearly all of his books made into films. The Third Man was developed by Reed and Greene from a single sentence scribbled down by Greene: I had paid my last farewell to Harry a week ago, when his coffin was lowered into the frozen February ground, so that it was with incredulity that I saw him pass by, without a sign of recognition, amongst a host of strangers in the Strand. (Newley, 2004) Reed and Selznick fought every step of the way, and Orson Welles, whom Reed insisted to play Harry Lime, the central mystery figure to the film, was his usual temperamental yet brilliant self. Though selfishly refusing to complete some of the sewer scenes which appear at the films end, Welles also was responsible for writing what is arguably the films best speech and perhaps one of the best speeches in movie history in Italy for 30 years under the Borgias they had warfare, terror, murder, and bloodshed, but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and the Renaissance. In Switzerland they had brotherly love they had 500 years of demo cracy and peace, and what did that produce? The cuckoo clock. Greene himself both conceded Welles authorship of this dialogue and its brilliance, no small gesture for an author of unparalleled brilliance himself. Beyond the remarkable power generated by the creative tension between the films key players was the content of the narrative itself. Far from being a simple-minded portrayal of good vs. evil and good people vs. evil people, like so many films of the World War II era, The Third Man was fearlessly ambiguous and complex in its morality. Harry Lime, who summons his best friend (a mediocre Western novelist) Holly Martins to Vienna ostensibly for a writing job is revered by both Martins and Limes girlfriend Anna Schmidt. Lime turns out to have been a completely selfish cretin, who cared little for Anna and who intended to use Martins in his racketeering scheme to sell watered-down penicillin on the Austrian black market. (The one exception is the fact that Lime obtains for Anna a forged passport to prevent her repatriation to Communist Czechoslovakia by the Russians.) Nonetheless, Anna is unable to stop loving Harry Lime, and Holly Martins only turns on Lime after a British major takes M artins to a pediatric ward and shows him children who are dead or suffering because of Limes racket. Even Martins redemption is flawed, as by films end he has fallen in love with and made a play for his best friends girl.However, Anna coldly rejects him in a stunning sequence at films end that went completely counter to the conventional wisdom of the time that demanded a happy ending. As witty, stylized, and cool as the narrative and dialogue are reminiscent of Casablanca the narrative itself reflects a rather bleak and paranoid sense of post World War II psychology. Just as the main characters themselves are morally complex or flawed, the narrative itself including the setting of Vienna paints a picture of a universe where the locus points of good and evil are difficult to find and loyalties are blurred and conflicting. The Third Man is a window into the future of the Cold War, where global conflicts between good and evil were to be played out on local stages by players who have little practical use themselves for the notions of good and evil. Director Carol Reed emphasized the lurking sense of paranoia and betrayal possibly waiting around any corner by the remarkable use of lighting most notably, stark shadows and a plethora of odd, oblique camera angles. One of the most famous entrances in movie history in Orson Welles first appearance as Harry Lime in the fi lm two-thirds of the way through the story, though he is referenced in virtually every scene up to this point. Lime is hiding in the shadows across the street from Martins. All that is initially visible are Limes shoes and Annas cat, which she mentioned in passing was fond of Lime. A neighbor across the way hears Martins yelling after the elusive Lime, and turns on her bedroom light. In a flash, it illuminates Limes face perfectly, and Welles delivers a telltale smirk/grin before disappearing into the night again. (Anton Karas zither music, which Reed insisted upon using over Selznicks wishes for an upbeat score, help round out the stylized grimness that permeates the film.) In a way, Harry Lime embodies the idealistic faith human beings place in institutions, in loved ones, in friendships, in straightforward black-and-white paradigms of morality. The unraveling of his mystique and the heartbreaking reveal of his amoral spiritual core reflected the stark truths of the World War which had just ended, and the Cold War which was to come both great struggles between great competing ideologies who promised much in exchange for allegiances, but failed to deliver. The Anna Schmidts and Holly Martins of the world were left only with each other, and even those tenuous bonds were often of little use. Even the title of this film, The Third Man, suggests a way of thinking that rejects the notion of binary oppositions, i.e., only one of two choices, and demanded that the audience accept a world far more morally complex than they were used to living. Beyond being a film that succeeds in the realms of pure entertainment, The Third Man succeeds in this deeper thematic manner as well.

Cause and Effect Essay - Impact of Stereotypes and Stereotyping

Cause and Effect Essay - The Impact of Stereotypes In today's society, our natural reaction is to put people into a specific class that we feel they fit into upon our first impression. When we were in high school, they were called clicks. There were your jocks and your cheerleaders, who were usually the most popular students. Along with stoners, nerds, and then the people who really didn't fit into any crowd, they were just there. When we were in high school, all of us wanted to be in the "cool crowd". As described in When I was growing Up by Nellie Wong, "I discovered the rich white girls...imported cotton dresses...and thought that I too should have what these lucky girls had..." In stereotyping people, we perhaps have ruined some great minds. However, when high school was over and the real world came true, high school jocks and cheerleaders didn't have much of a lead on the rest of us. Their popularity became nothing after high school. Our stereotyping of each other could have been very harmful. Some students were intelligent but never given a chance to prove it because of the way they dressed or because they smoked. We could see it in our teachers eyes, and our own, when a student walked in with glasses and a pocket protector we assumed that he was smart and way above the intellect of the class. Same as when we saw a person dressed in all black leather with chains walking in; we think that they will never make anything out of themselves. Now as adults, we work with all types of people. Most of us probably don't realize that all the people we used to make fun of in high school for studying hard or getting good grades are now the potential leaders of our nation. That jokes on us. However, wha... ...ave ruined some great authors, engineers, doctors or even presidents because of our cruel stereotypes. It's hard for society to realize that their simple classification of a person without knowing them directly could have such an effect. If we were to understand that just because we choose to where certain clothes or play sports, that it doesn't mean this is the only thing we know. Society itself is full of plenty of intelligent people, however, most of them will never get a chance to prove this because, either we won't give them a chance anymore, or they have just given up. Why should anyone try to prove their importance to us if we aren't willing to believe them? We've never cared about them, so why should they care about us? As a stereotyping society from as early as childhood, we have set ourselves up for problems, which might never be resolved.

Comparing The Withered Arm by Thomas Hardy and Turned by Charlotte Perk

Comparing The Withered Arm by Thomas Hardy and Turned by Charlotte Perkins Gilman This essay is aimed at discussing the differences between two short stories, called ‘The Withered Arm’ by Thomas Hardy and ‘Turned’ by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. These stories have similar plots and both deliver and contrast these in their very own clever ways. They are both based on the idea of triangular relationships, involving two women and a man. In the story ‘Turned’ there is a couple named Mr. and Mrs. Marroner, and their employee who is a young and beautiful Swedish maid who goes by the name of Gerta. In ‘The Withered Arm’ the relationship is between a lady called Rhoda Brook and a farmer called Farmer Lodge and his wife who is called Gertrude. This essay will discuss the similarities and differences between the two stories and their characters, I will also discuss the language used, and the way the same image is effectively conveyed in the two stories. The author of ‘Turned’ is Charlotte Perkins Gilman who was from a poor background and was born in Connecticut, USA, in 1860. The first story she wrote was called ‘The Yellow Wallpaper’ which she wrote in 1892. She then went on to write her best-known book, which was called ‘Women and Economics.’ Gilman was a feminist writer who believed that women had the right to their own independence. This is demonstrated in the character of Marion in ‘Turned’, as she is a clever woman with a degree and has a title of doctor. Gilman published ‘Turned’ in 1911 at the time where issues surrounding women rights was becoming more serious and common. On the other hand, Thomas Hardy wrote his novel ‘The Withered Arm’ with men in the powerful positions. For instance Farmer Lodg... ...ld and frail and died and Farmer Lodge became a kind, caring and thoughtful man! Gertrude died three days later in the town â€Å"Her blood had been turned indeed, too far.† After this Rhoda had lost her friend and her son so she decided to resume where she had started where â€Å"Her monotonous milking at the dairy was resumed.† Farmer Lodge on the third corner of this triangular relationship gave up his farms and became a member of the parish after he overcame his remorse and moodiness. â€Å"He eventually changed for the better, and appeared as a chastened and thoughtful man† To conclude this essay, triangular relationships happen and probably always will happen for years to come. It doesn’t make any difference about what century it happens in or if it is from a rich or poor background because affairs, unwanted babies and complicated relationships are part of life.