Toward a theoretical and substantial understanding of complex social Essay

Toward a theoretical and substantial understanding of complex social networks - Essay Example This research is being carried out to determine the viability of a theory. One of the best ways to do it is to compare it to the parameters and processes of real world systems. Aristotle’s examination of the physical manifestations of natural phenomena helped lead him to his theory of universals, which holds that an object has its own immutable and innate form: a pear is a pear because it embodies that form. The observation of complex social networks, both great and small, yields invaluable information about how their processes affect form, systemic characteristics and interact with other systems. The study of real-world networks reveals a wealth of information about the relevance of the random network model and the theory of scale-free networks, as developed by Albert-Laszlo Barabasi and Reka Albert. Thus, by observing systems such as food web networks, human physiological systems and various social interactions we may determine to what extent the laws of connectivity predict how they behave under certain circumstances. By extension, we may also utilize systems that approximate real-world network tendencies, such as the worldwide web and power network grids. Both random and scale free networks exhibit characteristics that are identifiable in natural systems. In Linked: The New Science of Networks, Barabasi and Albert describe random networks in terms of human physiology, explaining that the more links that are added within a system, the more difficult it becomes to find an isolated node. Thus the networks around and within us are very dense, which explains why â€Å"all molecules in our body are integrated into a single complex cellular map† (Barabasi and Albert 2002, p. 19). In this way, Nature creates redundancy to ensure survival by â€Å"repeatedly and extravagantly (exceeding) the one-link minimum† (2002, p. 18). In developing the theory of scale-free network, Barabasi and Albert found that most real-world networks display what they 2 describe as â€Å"

High School Life Essay Example for Free

High School Life Essay It was in the year 2009, I was a graduating elementary student back then, when our adviser talked to me, together with my fellow honor students, regarding our plans after graduation. The conversation included where we wanted to study in high school. Most of us said that a simple school will do, what’s important for us back then was to have a school. That simple. After a few words, our adviser said that there is prestigious school inviting us to study there. Our initial reaction was, of course, we have no money to pay for the tuition fee. But then, she said that we need not worry, because the school offers us 100% scholarship, with a weekly allowance. We were delighted by the news. Imagine being a scholar of Notre Dame of Greater Manila. That is something to be proud of. So we were scheduled for an exam. We were so nervous. After several days of waiting, the results came out. And I was the one chosen to be the scholar! When my mom told me the news, I was really overjoyed. It would be my first time to study in a private school, prestigious one even. I went to the school to arrange my requirements there. That was when I knew that I am a De Mazenod Lingap Talino (DMLT) scholar, who would enjoy 100% scholarship and weekly allowance. What a privilege! I also met there Mr. Diego Reyes, or Sir Jigs, as what the whole institution calls him, and Ma’am Sofie. They were the ones who helped me during my stay there as a scholar. My first year was tough. A lot of adjustments were done. Of course, I’m not used to having classmates who are techy and rich. They talked about this gadget and that gadget, which, in my previous school, is not an issue. I’m not used to seeing signature clothes and bags. So I didn’t know how I would approach them. I’m not rich as them. I am just a simple girl. Another reason why I’m afraid is because I thought I would not be accepted there. I am different, physically. Before the first day of school, I imagined the Damers teasing me and bullying me. And I imagined myself ignoring them, as if they don’t exist, and when I’m alone, I’d cry a lot just to let the feelings out. I thought I would be an outcast, a loner, weirdo in their eyes. But I was completely wrong. I gained a lot of friends, much many than I thought I’d have. My first impression of them was wrong. They are not like what I see in the movies, rich people who are arrogant and rude. They understand my situation. They are open-minded. They are real. They may tease me but that was only natural, I do not get offended. They are real, true friends. Of course, the teachers are a plus. I thought they would not like me, especially the Math teachers, because I’m really weak in that particular subject. I really like Math, but I guess the feeling ain’t mutual. Until now, I still use finger Math. I am extremely slow in solving problems. I thought Math teachers would lose their patience on me, ignore my presence in the cream class because they would think I don’t belong there, because I am a weakling. But then again, I was W-R-O-N-G. Math teachers in Notre are exactly the opposite of what I thought they would be. They are very kind, especially Mrs. Narciso, Ms.Padlan, Mr.R and Mr. Zuniga. They were the ones whom I spend my Math classes with during my entire stay in high school. They were the ones who taught me Math and helped me to improve my skills in that field. They showed me that I am not a weakling, I still have hope. Whoo. But of course, there were my second parents. Mrs. Mercado and Mrs. Asis who served as my mothers, and Mr. Saplagio as my dad. They were the ones whom I turn to and cry on whenever I have problems. And all of the teachers in Notre, who may seem terror and scary inside the classrooms, but outside, they are one of your bestest best friends. Being a scholar isn’t as easy as anyone thinks. It’s really tough maintaining your grades. It is stressing to think about your grades when they are going down. They say grades are just numbers, but I depend on those numbers. My scholarship depends on those numbers. I usually envy those who can just have fun while I am at my room studying even if there’s no exam. And of course, as a scholar, I should be a role model to others. I should take care of my reputation. But of course doing that is a bit hard. As the saying goes, â€Å"Character is what you are; reputation is what people think you are.† What if my character is different from my reputation? Yes, that happens all the time. But I just maintain my character and ignore those who pull me down by saying things about me behind my back. That made me stronger. Notre gave me a lot of experiences that I would not forget. Notre gave me people that I am thankful for. But of course, I would receive none of these if it wasn’t for the DMLT, for giving me this very wonderful opportunity to study in the institution. I am just a simple girl from a family who cannot afford the services of Notre. But because of Notre’s awareness of the students out there who are not financially able, yet deserving to have quality education, and it’s willingness to reach out to them, I was able to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity. Now, I am going to study in my dream school, the University in the Philippines, one of the most prestigious universities in the whole country. With the help of Notre, I was able to get this dream of mine. It equipped me with enough knowledge and skills to face the challenges ahead. My life in Notre had been stressful, yet everything was all worth it. For this, I would like to express my deep gratitude. Thank you, Notre Dame.

Story about a Baseball Game Essay -- Personal Narrative Essays

It had been an unbelievable season so far, we were going into the championship game of junior league with only two losses. Of course, the only other team with a better record than us was the black team. We gave them their only loss on the second game of the regular season. Now, after defeating the better of the Mosinee teams in the semi finals, my dad, who was also the coach of our blue team, had stopped to watch the rest of the game between black and red. As we pulled into the parking lot, Andy Dunst ran up to our truck and said, â€Å"Black is losing in the sixth!† â€Å"Really?† I asked. â€Å"Yah, they’re down 9-6.† As we watched the rest of the game, black just couldn’t seem to get anything going, and the players on our team that were there watching were getting more and more excited. Finally, that last out was made, and we felt that the championship was a lock with our best pitcher going for the championship. All week, I was excited for the game, and finally it was the big day. As we were going through our warm-up routine, everybody was loose and confident. We were fooling around just like it was another game. Players were making jokes, throws were all over the place like always and it seemed like we had been there a thousand times†¦ until the game started. Josh Heinrick was on the mound in the first inning, and red was able to string a couple of hits together and score a couple of runs. â€Å"Lets go guys, it’s still early and we can make up those runs,† encouraged my dad. So, we went up to the plate, I was batting sixth, and went down in order. The team morale had gone from high and confident to rather low and worried. The game dragged on into the fifth inning and we were still behind by three. Now it was time to bear d... ...ssed it! Our team was going crazy. The outfielder was able to throw out the runner going to second and end the inning, but we had the lead going into the top of the final inning. All right, guys, let’s hold them, and we have this one. We control the game now, and it’s ours to lose,† encouraged my dad. Red was down, and they didn’t have anything in the seventh. They went down one, two, three. Our team all ran to the pitcher’s mound and celebrated. It was the best feeling I had ever experienced from baseball. The energy was awesome after the comeback win, and you could tell that red didn’t know what happened. They had us down and out in the second to last inning, but they couldn’t hold on. As they announced our names to get the trophies, we could hardly stand still. As I waited, I was thinking, I will never forget how it felt to win my first championship.

Macbeth As A Tragic Hero :: essays research papers

Shakespeare uses many forms of imagery in his plays. Imagery, the art of making images, the products of imagination. In the play Macbeth Shakespeare applies the imagery of clothing, darkness and blood. Each detail in his imagery contains an important symbol of the play. These symbols need to be understood in order to interpret the entire play. Within the play ‘Macbeth’ the imagery of clothing portrays that Macbeth is seeking to hide his “disgraceful self'; from his eyes and others. . Shakespeare wants to keep alive the contrast between the pitiful creature that Macbeth really is and the disguises he assumes to conceal the fact. Macbeth is constantly represented symbolically as the wearer of robes not belonging to him. He is wearing an undeserved dignity, which is a point well made by the uses of clothing imagery. The description of the purpose of clothing in Macbeth is the fact that these garments are not his. Therefore, Macbeth is uncomfortable in them because he is continually conscious of the fact that they do not belong to him. In the following passage, the idea constantly reappears, Macbeth’s new honors sit ill upon him, like loose and badly fitting garments, belonging to someone else:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  New honors come upon him   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Like strange garments,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cleave not to their mould   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  But with the aid of use (I, iii, 144-145) This passage is clearly demonstrating that Macbeth cannot fit in these garments. They are not meant to and the clothing imagery is therefor effective. The second form of imagery used to add to the atmosphere is the imagery of darkness. Macbeth, a Shakespearean tragedy contains and demonstrates the darkness in a tragedy. In the play, the design of the witches, the guilt in Macbeth’s soul and the darkness of the night establish the atmosphere. All of the remarkable scenes take place at night or in some dark spot, for instance; the vision of the dagger, the murder of Duncan, the murder of Banquo and Lady Macbeth’s sleep walking. Darkness symbolizes many things such as evil and death in the play. Thus is evident when Macbeth calls on night to come so that he can proceed with Duncan’s murder. Macbeth says:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Come, thick night, And pall thee in the dunnest smoke of hell, That my keen knife see not thee wound makes Nor heaven peep through the blanket of the dark (I, v, 51-53) Macbeth calls on thick night to come cloaked in the blackest smoke so that it may not reveal or witness his evil deed and black desires.

Fitzgerald and Steinbeck: Depiction of a Shared Theme Essay

â€Å"Forgotten is Forgiven. † This quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald depicts the true reality of death, once death has taken you and you are forgotten, you are then forgiven. This reality is true in some literature of F. Scott Fitzgerald and John Steinbeck. The Modern age (1915-1946) has covered some of America’s most important history. During this time period WWI occurred along with: the Roaring 20’s, The Great Depression, WWII and the H-bomb. These historical events gave modern literature characteristics that no other time period can replicate. The great writing movement of modernism came along with the disbelief in the American Dream. There was no longer a need to â€Å"capture the essence of modern life. † Many forms of the era were fragmented and not sequential. Many transitions, resolutions, interpretations, summaries and explanations were used that are common in traditional writings. Themes would relate to issues and events of the time, while having readers draw their own conclusions to these writings. Many techniques of writing were used as well, like stream of consciousness (recreation of the natural flow of thoughts), and the use of symbolism and allusions to suggest themes. Fitzgerald, author of â€Å"Winter Dreams† and The Great Gatsby, and Steinbeck, author of â€Å"Flight† used modernistic writing and their personal life encounters to illustrate their thoughts that â€Å"nature serves as an escape from reality†. Being the fore front of Modernism, F. Scott Fitzgerald and John Steinbeck use similar settings, symbolism, and character development to depict a shared theme that nature can serve as an escape from reality.

Free Essays on Shakespeare

Wicked World William Shakespeare based his plays on evil actions, which the people of the 1600’s could relate to their own lives. Today, society reads his work, and they can compare it to the twenty- first century. Shakespeare uses the theme of evil to show one person’s greed interrupting the lives of all. In King Lear, Twelfth Night, Timon of Athens, Coriolanus, Taming of the Shrew, and The Tempest different forms of evil rule the lives of the characters in the same way people act today. Shakespeare proves the appearance of evil in mankind, such as greed, violence, and hatred dictates the world. Society of the 1600’s, as today, thinks wealth will bring happiness. With this mindset, greed begins to control their lives. In King Lear, the greed of Lear’s older daughters controls Lear’s life. Goneril and Regan strive to overtake their father’s wealth and power. Shakespeare continuously shows the theme of evil for â€Å" Every cruelty in the action is re-enforced. There is not one evil daughter there are two†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Spencer 137). Goneril instigates a crime, and Regan responds with a harsher punishment. After receiving all their father had to offer, both daughters strive for more. Spencer says, â€Å"Goneril and Regan not only violate natural law by their behavior to their father, they also violate their proper functions as human beings by their lust for Edmund, a lust which ends in murder, suicide, and which makes the description of them as animals doubly appropriate† (Spencer 143). Lear realizes the deceit in his daughter when he says , â€Å"They flattered me like a dog, and told me I had the white/ hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there† (4.6.98-99). Greed continuously interferes with the lives of people today. Recently, Enron’s partnerships disguised five hundred million dollars of debt from their books to continue business. These officials of Enron Corporation have been caught with million dollar bonuses which w... Free Essays on Shakespeare Free Essays on Shakespeare No one questions the fact that William Shakespeare is a pure genius when it comes to creating immortal characters whose characteristics transcends those of the normal supernatural beings, but most students of literature agree that his uses of the supernatural aren’t merely figments of his creative imagination. Every man, woman, and child is influenced by the age into which they are born and Shakespeare was no exception. Not only does his use of supernatural elements within his works reveal the Elizabethans’ obsession with mythical beliefs, but it also reveals his attitude toward these beliefs at different points of his writing career. Because of the profound understanding of the beliefs of his time, Shakespeare was able to create masterpieces that critics and readers have respected all over the world. In Shakespeare’s time, the belief in the presence and power of the supernatural touch life at every point. Customs were formed by it and behavior was dictated by it. Not only did the poor believe in it, but all classes of people were under its spell from nobles to the poor. It governed people’s lives down to the smallest details. They carried charms and mascots, found horror in spilling salt and walking under ladders, and dreaded the thirteenth of Friday (May 35-38). They believed that all supernatural elements were at work. The Elizabethans had always been susceptible to belief in the supernatural. As May notes, these people more that other people questioned matters beyond their vision (39). Shakespeare was clearly influenced by his race. He had an inquiring mind that refused bondage by the limitations of matter (Mish 28). Listing the numberless superstitions that Shakespeare gathered from his environment would be impossible. May believes that it is because his own observations of the habits of animals and plants were explained by stories that were more myth that truth. Elizabethans also gave superstitious explanations for chang... Free Essays on Shakespeare The crux of Shakespeare’s Othello is the tragic fall from grace of ‘valiant Othello’ and the rippling destruction that occurs as a result of Othello’s psychological decay. However, among other themes, of significance to this play is the stratification and marginilisation of individuals and groups. Through the events of the plot and an examination of themes, it is evident that dominant social ideologies expressed through various characters, are the basis of the marginilisation, exploitation and disempowerment of individuals within the play. When considering the marginilisation of principal characters, it is essential to understand not only how characters are marginalised in terms of the plot, but also to what extent the marginilisation of characters acts as a conduit of expressing Shakespeare’s support or questioning of dominant Elizabethan ideologies. The character of Othello is an intriguing one, in that he is a black MA Shakespearean tragedy is one that encompasses many different elements. Shakespeare presents all of these elements spectacularly in Othello. For a tragedy to occur there are five conditions. The protagonist, Othello in this case, must experience a death or a total loss of ranking in society. oor, who the audience sees to hold a position of power, commanding respect as a result of his military position and apparent human nobility. Othello’s human nobility is evident through his: ‘language embellished with each kind of artistic ornament.’(Aristotle) Keep up your bright swords, For the dew will rust them. Othello’s rich dialogue aids in Shakespeare’s presentation of Othello as a man in a position of powerful command, deserving of much respect. It is evident through Othello’s military rank and dialogue, that an audience is positioned to see him as a man of greatness and nobility. Othello is also portrayed as a character that is intrinsically good, who loves passionately and is honest and trusting.... Free Essays on Shakespeare Shakespeare - Man or Myth? Was the man we know as Shakespeare really the author of the "Shakespearean Works"? We know little about the man called Shakespeare, Did he really write the plays, or is he just a man that got confused within history? (Sobran 44) There is not even a correct spelling of this mans name, Some of the spellings include Shakspere, Shakespeare, And Shaxpere. Shakespeare, Is it the man, Or is it another? (Hayes 1D) Shakespeare is both fact and fiction, he was no concern until nearly two hundred years after he perished, and there is still no definite or probably will there ever be a conclusion to this mystery. (Sobran 44) There is another man that can be attributed with the works of "Shakespeare", His name is Edward DeVere, the 17th Earl of Oxford. (Bethell 47) The man known as Shakespeare does not fit perfectly into the necessary criteria to determine the author of these works. Thomas Looney invented a series of criteria that had to be filled, in order to be a possible candidate for th! e authorship of the Shakespearean works. To have all the knowledge that is portrayed in the works, the author must have accomplished many things. These including a superior education, from what we know of "Shakespeare", this was not a possibility.(Bethell 46) We do not even know if Shakespeare has ever written anything in his life, Nor do we know that he was paid for writing these works. The man Shakespeare does not even make a claim that he is the author.(Bethell 50) He may not have been able to write the simplest thing of all, His own name.(Hayes 1D) Its not how little we know about Shakespeare that causes confusion and difficulty, Its the things that we do know about this man that cause the confusion and difficulty. We know Shakespears father, a glover, could not write. When he signed documents, he simply made an "X", This is why it is beleived that Shakespeare could not write also, Because he probably did not attend school th... Free Essays on Shakespeare â€Å"†¦Shakespeare examines the contrast between those who follow accepted social forms and those who challenge them†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Dash 252). Shakespeare’s works are known for portraying women in a different way than was socially acceptable during his time period. Why do Kathrina in the play The Taming of the Shrew, Beatrice in the play Much Ado About Nothing, and Cleopatra in the play Antony and Cleopatra go from being strong female characters to weak ones after they fall in love? When analyzing this question, it is important to first understand the women and their characterization. Kathrina is the eldest daughter of her family and has one younger sister. During this time period the eldest daughter had to get married before the younger one was able to. Kathrina is referred to as â€Å"Kathrina the curst! A title for a maid of all the titles the worst!† (The Taming of the Shrew Act 1 Scene 2). No one wishes to marry her and she does not wish to get married. Kathrina has a sharp tongue and does not believe that she will ever fall in love or get married. Kathrina’s father wants her to get married, so his younger daughter can also marry. He asks many men to marry Kathrina but they all reply that she is too much of a shrew to marry. Like Kathrina, Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing, believes that she will never fall in love. In Act 1, Scene 1, she states â€Å"†¦I had rather hear my dog bark at a crow than a man swear he loves me.â₠¬  Beatrice feels that she can not fall in love with a man who can not match her wit, and she feels that no man will ever be able to match her wit, therefore she will never marry. Unlike the other two women, Cleopatra is not married, however she does not despise men like the other two do. When first introduced to Cleopatra she is having an affair with Antony, one of the emperors of the Roman Empire. She is a very dramatic person and feels that she must have control over Antony’s emotions towards her.... Free Essays on Shakespeare Wicked World William Shakespeare based his plays on evil actions, which the people of the 1600’s could relate to their own lives. Today, society reads his work, and they can compare it to the twenty- first century. Shakespeare uses the theme of evil to show one person’s greed interrupting the lives of all. In King Lear, Twelfth Night, Timon of Athens, Coriolanus, Taming of the Shrew, and The Tempest different forms of evil rule the lives of the characters in the same way people act today. Shakespeare proves the appearance of evil in mankind, such as greed, violence, and hatred dictates the world. Society of the 1600’s, as today, thinks wealth will bring happiness. With this mindset, greed begins to control their lives. In King Lear, the greed of Lear’s older daughters controls Lear’s life. Goneril and Regan strive to overtake their father’s wealth and power. Shakespeare continuously shows the theme of evil for â€Å" Every cruelty in the action is re-enforced. There is not one evil daughter there are two†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Spencer 137). Goneril instigates a crime, and Regan responds with a harsher punishment. After receiving all their father had to offer, both daughters strive for more. Spencer says, â€Å"Goneril and Regan not only violate natural law by their behavior to their father, they also violate their proper functions as human beings by their lust for Edmund, a lust which ends in murder, suicide, and which makes the description of them as animals doubly appropriate† (Spencer 143). Lear realizes the deceit in his daughter when he says , â€Å"They flattered me like a dog, and told me I had the white/ hairs in my beard ere the black ones were there† (4.6.98-99). Greed continuously interferes with the lives of people today. Recently, Enron’s partnerships disguised five hundred million dollars of debt from their books to continue business. These officials of Enron Corporation have been caught with million dollar bonuses which w... Free Essays on Shakespeare Shakespeare’s works depict deep thoughts of every type of emotion regardless if it is lighthearted or monotonous, the emotions are always deep, and seemed weighed down by some inner depression. Even though the tone and setting may be cheerful and may be talking about an upbeat emotion, the tenor of most his sonnets are heavy and solemn. In â€Å"Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day?† and â€Å"That Time of Year Though Mayst in Me Behold,† Shakespeare sets the tones differently in each sonnet, however explains how strong his love is for his significant other continuously in each poem with different examples and imagery to express it. Shakespeare set the tone of the â€Å"Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day,† with the cheerful setting of the summer, while expressing his love for another with joyous imagery. He compares her to sweet things that involve the summer’s uniqueness. He explains how his lover is better than all the beautiful and rich things summer has to offer like its â€Å"temperate† weather, and how the love surpasses the greatness of summer because the love they share will endure, and not end like summer does. In â€Å"That Time of Year Thou Mayst in Me Behold,† Shakespeare begins to approach the subject of love in a different way, however sti ll expresses the quantity and the strength of his love, just like in â€Å"Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day.† While still talking about the strength of his love, he only compares it slightly different with the tone, however continues to illustrate how much love her carries for his significant other. He explains how strong his love is by stating that the death in winter and dismal characteristics of the winter season will never dampen his love for this person whom he speaks about. Shakespeare writes how winter will never stifle his love and that his love will shine through all dreariness, and be the light that shines in all the shadows of the world. David Kaula states in...

Human Rights Essay

Human Rights Essay Human Rights Essay Human Rights Task Type: Mini Essays Abbreviations UN- United Nations ICCPR- International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights UDHR- Universal Declaration of Human Rights NGO- Non-Governmental Organisations UNICEF- United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund Discuss the arguments for and against a charter of rights for Australia There are many arguments for and against a charter of rights for Australia; many of these arguments for a charter of rights include that it would improve the quality and accountability of government, that it could generate economic benefits, and that it would contribute to a culture of respect for human rights. Arguments against a Charter of Human rights are that it could undermine the tradition of parliamentary sovereignty possibly causing a transfer of authority, it could be an excessive and costly litigation, and that it could potentially lead to negative outcomes for human rights. It is commonly argued that a statutory Charter of Human Rights would expressly recognise rights not currently recognised by Australian law, and therefore also, help in promoting a stronger culture of respect for human rights, improve government policy-making and administrative decision-making from a human rights perspective, would bring Australia into line with every other liberal democracy and potentially allow Australian courts to play a broader role in protecting human rights under Australian law. Whether this is desirable or not is a source of great argument. It will also help to better meet the obligations Australia has undertaken, under international law to protect human rights standards. On another note many people think that it could potentially lead to negative outcomes for human rights and may mean that there is no better human rights protection guaranteed. There are many common arguments against a Charter of Human Rights. Sadly, Australians cannot claim that their parliamentary system works so perfectly that it does not occasionally need the stimulus of reminders that the law sometimes treats people (usually minorities) unjustly and unequally, therefore many people think that a Charter of rights may â€Å"penalise† those who are in most need of human rights. Many people argue that a Charter of Rights would improve the quality and accountability of government, but on the other hand others agree that it would be undermining a tradition of parliamentary sovereignty, including transferring legislative power to unelected judges. Some suggest that a Charter of Human Rights would be unnecessary, given the existing common law and statutory protections of rights in Australia. There is extremely high community support for a Charter of Rights in Australia. People believe that a Charter of Rights will bring Australia into line with other democracies such as Canada and New Zealand, and will contribute to a culture of respect for human rights. Whilst some commentators suggest that a Charter will be impossible in Australia because I would involve the judiciary in giving advisory options. â€Å"Criminals and suspected criminals are most likely to make claims regarding the right to a fair trial or procedural rights concerning arrest and detention, rights that judges are already familiar with. They may also make claims about their right to humane treatment in custody†. Says Sarah Joseph in her article ‘Stance on human rights has everything - except a charter’. In this article Sarah Joseph states that she is against a Carter of rights and feels it unnecessary for Australia. Many other countries have enacted similar bills of rights by statute; Canada introduced the Canadian Bill of rights in 1960. New Zealand introduced a Bill of Rights in 1993, and the UK enacted the Human Rights Act 1998 (UK). In 2008, on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Federal Attorney- General Robert McClelland announced an inquiry, HUMAN RIGHTS Essay HUMAN RIGHTS Essay Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention: An international regime = set of principles, norms, rules and decision-making procedures that states and other international actors accept as authoritative in an issue- area. The Charter of the United Nations, signed in San Francisco on 26 June 1945, promoted respect for human rights as one of the principal objectives. It also created a commission on Human Rights. The commission was drafting the ‘Universal Declaration of Human Rights’ – list of internationally recognised human rights. Civil and political rights – provide legal protection against abuse by the state and seek to ensure political participation for all citizens. Economic, social and cultural rights – guarantee individuals access to essential goods and services and seek to ensure equal social and cultural participation. E.g. rights to food, housing, health care, etc. Nature of these rights: Humans being are endowed with individual rights & protections because they are human Three Dominant rights: Inherent – birthright of all (not given by state) Inalienable – cannot be given up or taken away – non-exchangeable Universal – apply to all people regardless of nationality, status, gender, religion or race – EVERYONE entitled to rights = controversial You can find these rights in the: UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights – 1948 (second world war was the influence) – Rights of women and children are greater listed than men. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights – 1966 International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights – 1966 International Labour organisation International Court of Justice International Criminal Court Problems & challenges: Compliance & enforcement – rights were created without an equivalent mechanism Cultural objections – communal rights, Asian values Religious objections – role of women in society Economic Objections – child labour = has implications when applied in reality Claim of Western authorship Procedural v substantive freedoms & rights = processed rights, no real contradiction Humanitarian Intervention – designed to uphold these rights Military Intervention: use of force Non-Military Intervention: provision of aid Non- Intervention: The norm in international politics States claim monopoly control over their internal affairs Sovereignty rights protected in UN charter UN Security Council interprets â€Å"threats to international peace and security† = ethical and legal duty Humanitarian Intervention Examples: (1970s – current period) 1994: UN in Cambodia 1999: UN in East Timor 2011: Libya 1971: India in Bangladesh Challenges & Problems: Using force to stop violence – replacing one tyranny, with a tyranny of another kind How many people need to be

Maiolica Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War essayEssay Writing Service

Maiolica Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War essayEssay Writing Service Maiolica: Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War essay Maiolica: Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War essayMaiolica pottery was very popular, especially during the 16th century, when this art has reached the high level of development. In a way, maiolica pottery may be viewed as one of the first manifestations of the popular art because maiolica pottery was closer to people since conventional objects, such s dishes, were transformed into works of art. The Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War is one of such works which dates back to the mid-16th century and it was created by Guido Durantine as a decoration of the pottery. This work of art is particularly noteworthy as the work that refers to the Classical art of ancient Rome and Greece but also this maiolica pottery reveals the European vision of the Classical era through the eyes of the 16th century artist.The Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War, 1540-60, created by Guido Durantine is one of the maiolica pottery created in the 16th century. This dish is an example of the traditional maiolica pottery which depicts the scene that refers to the ancient time. In such a way, the artist pays a lot of attention to the classical art and philosophy which was the mainstream trend in the Renaissance era, when artists re-discovered the cultural and artistic heredity of the ancient world. At the same time, the Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War was not a mere painting depicting a classical plot but, on the contrary, this is the original work of art of the 16th century, while the accuracy of the depiction of the ancient story in accordance to traditions of the classical ancient Greek or Roman art just reveals the turn of the artist to the Classical art as a source of inspiration and creativity.The focus of the artist on the Classical story referring to the Second Punic war is not occasional. Ancient world as well as the classical art of Rome and Greece is the cradle of European civilization and Renaissance artists found the main source of inspiratio n in the ancient classical art. This is why references and episodes from Classical ancient Roman or Greek stories are frequent in maiolica pottery. In this regard, the Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War is not an exception. The artist was apparently inspired by the ancient history and he depicts ancient heroes and gods on the dish to revive the spirit of antiquity in the Renaissance era.The painting refers to one of the most important moments in the ancient history, the Second Punic War, which was the war between Rome and Carthage for the supremacy in the Western Mediterranean. Rome and Carthage were the major superpowers in that time and the theme of their Punic War was very strong in the ancient Roman art (Mussachio 182). At the same time, Guido Durantine could view the Second Punic War in broader terms than just the war between the Rome and Carthage. Instead, he could view the war as the clash of two civilizations, European and African one. During the Renaissance this th eme was very important and the clash of European powers, such as Spain and Italy, in a way, as well as all Europeans during the Crusades, with African and Asian powers was one of main issues in the life of Europeans of that time.In addition, African civilization was totally different from European one and the clash between them could evoke the author’s desire to reveal the origin of the conflict between them. In this regard, the depiction of the Second Punic war helps to understand the conflict between European countries and African ones as the historical conflict (Mussachio 188). However, the painting itself does not really depicts the war or battlefield. Instead, the painting depicts Roman headed by Gaius Flaminius in the center of the dish. They are in a turmoil because of the war on Carthage and they are probably preparing to win the war and defeat Hannibal. Gaius Flaminiys appeals to Romans and attempts to take everything under control. He wants to persuade Romans to car ry on the war and defeat Hannibal but Romans apparently refuse and prefer to leave. Gaius claims and appeals to Romans but they do not really listen to him, instead, they are busy with their own affairs and problems, while some of them have already started to retreat to escape probably the upcoming rage of Gaius. The face of Gaius manifests despair and hatred. He apparently hates Hannbal and wants his defeat. However, after Romans’ refusal to carry on the war and their attempts of retreating, he grows furious and seems to be ready to attack his fellow Romans. Some of his supporters to his right raise their hands to show their support. They also seem to be outraged by the refusal of Romans to carry on the war but the majority of Romans disagree with them and either have already turned their backs to them to go away or just ignore the exclamations and appeals of Gaius’ supporters. Â  The small Cupid in the low right part of the painting is looking downward as if looking for someone to shoot with his arrow, while all the other gods are busy with their own affairs and problems. The depiction of the Cupid seems to be ironic since he, being so small and helpless, turns out to be the only one, who is really ready to bear arms and use it. Alternatively, the role of Cupid may be different but still quite symbolic. For instance, Cupid could be depicted as the tribute of ancient Roman gods, on the one hand, and European traditions of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, where religious themes were traditionally very strong. However, the depict of Cupid as a symbol of divine presence is quite ironic, if not to say sarcastic, compared to large scale paintings created before, during the Middle Ages and early Renaissance, which manifested worshipping of God, detailed and honorable depiction of angels and saints. In contrast, the Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War depicts a small Cupid as the only representative of Roman gods, who is present during the Roman council meeting on the future of Carthage and Hannibal. At this point, the view of the artist on ancient Roman and gods as well as god-man relationship is quite different from views of ancient Romans and artists and people of the Middle Ages. Ancient Romans believed that gods play an important part in their life and they worshiped and hoped for the gods’ assistance. Cupid played minor part in the hierarch of ancient Roman gods. This is why the creator of the Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War had minimized the role of gods in the decision making process shifting the focus on humans as key decision makers. In fact, this idea was new and challenging even for Guido Durantine’ contemporaries because this idea was unacceptable during the Middle Ages and Renaissance had just started to bring the new vision of man as a proactive agent but not a mere subject to God’s will and decisions. Therefore, Durantine rejects the fatum of ancient Romans as well as the overwhelming power of God over humans of his contemporary. Instead, he shows that people can take important decisions, regardless of the position of gods or their involvement in affairs of humans.In conclusion, taking into account all above mentioned, it is important to place emphasis on the fact that the Dish with a Scene from the Second Punic War by Guido Durantine created in 1540-60 depicts the council meeting of ancient Romans and the disagreement of Romans to attack Hannibal and Carthage that make Gaius Flaminius furious. This maiolica potter mirrors the increased interest of European artists of the Renaissance era to the classical art ancient Rome and Greece. The artist had challenged cultural norms of his time and intentionally decreased the role of gods in face of men, who become main decision makers and take a proactive position.

The John F. Kennedy years were often described as Camelot Term Paper

The John F. Kennedy years were often described as Camelot - Term Paper Example It is difficult to define President Kennedy. He was a man with a hidden past, and one who kept his life in strict compartments. He had spent much of his youth seriously ill, and even throughout his Presidency hid the constant pain he felt, so that even those who were closest to him were unaware of it1. As a man he w as easily bored, loved excitement and was charming to all those he dealt with. Whatever decisions he made he was able to back up through rhetoric and charm regardless of whether the choice that had been taken had been the correct one2. There were many events throughout Kennedy’s short presidency including riots over the admission of Negros into University, the Cuban Missile Crisis, civil rights movements, the Vietnam War, as well as countless other incidents3. The manner in which Kennedy handled these incidents and the depiction of him in later literature and film have led to the years of John F. Kennedy’s presidency have often been called the Camelot years, referring to an idealized time, analogous to the years of King Arthur. Under this analogy, Kennedy is thought of as a hero, promising peace to the United State including the complete withdrawal from the Vietnam War. This never happened because of the assassination of Kennedy in 1953. How realistic is this view of Kennedy? Was he a hero, giving the United States a few golden years, or does this view ignore many of the facts of Kennedy’s presidency? This essay examines some of the key aspects of Kennedy’s presidency, including his opinions and decisions concerning the Vietnam War, the way he was as a leader, how he appeared in public compared to his own staff and his personality. It is proposed that the concept of the ‘Camelot years’ of Kennedy’s presidency was brought about by opinions and theories following his assassination, and perhaps by the fact that he was assassinated, but that this description of his term bears little resemblance either to t he man himself, or the events that occurred throughout his time as President. The Vietnam War Kennedy is often seen as a peace bringer and a hero because of his strong desire to bring about the end of the Vietnam War. This image was first advanced by the film JFK produced by Oliver Stone4. Stone forwarded the idea that Kennedy had the intention of ending the Vietnam War, but that this plan was prevented by his assignation in 1963. The image that Kennedy puts forward is one of a lone hero, and has grown in popular opinion since the film’s release5. Yet, considering him a hero in this respect is not entirely accurate. While it is true that in 1963 he strongly desired to end the war, the actions in the first two years of his presidency were not to this end. When he first took office, the war had been occurring for some time, and the position of the United States was poor and on the verge of collapse. Under his leadership, the war was escalated in 1961 and 1962 with the level of violence being increased6.He was responsible for substantially raising the level of aggression with such acts as ordering a squadron from the United States Air Force to become involved directly in combat operations7. As a consequence, he moved the focus from being warfare that was backed by the United State to direct armed attack8. Indeed, although Kennedy’s military advisors put forward predictions that the increases in violence would eventually lead to a military victory within Vietnam, and allow the United States to withdraw their forces, Kennedy himself never fully supported the idea of withdrawal9. The opinion that Kennedy planned to end the Vietnam War was not the only thesis that has been proposed by supporters of Kennedy. Some have proposed that he planned not only the complete with

IP2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

IP2 - Essay Example Yet another criterion of good decision making is based on the need to define the decision making process. This involves clarifying the technique of solving the problem and analyzing the extent in which the problem has been abstracted (Hurwitz & Hurwitz, 2015). Yet another criterion is that the judgment needs to be analyzed based on its faithfulness especially in terms of problem analysis. The decisions made must express the leader as a good decision maker that uses an objective method of making decisions (Peniwati, 2007). On the other hand, the leader must express fairness in the selection of the most appropriate alternatives prior to making the final decisions. In the realm of decision making, various assumptions are made (Martin & Parmar, 2012). Among the assumptions include assuming that women are weaker gender and that they cannot work in the same roles as the men in the office. This assumption then leads to the women being given inferior roles such as making coffee, or not employing them at all. Secondly, the assumptions made regarding age may be made. The boss may assume that the older population cannot grasp concepts on technology; thus, assume their contribution on matters of technology. Assumptions may also be made on the education levels of the staff. Some leaders may assume that persons that are not well learned cannot learn quickly; thus, assume their contribution in the organization. To test or confirm the credibility of these assumptions, I would assess various factors. For the assumption of the automobile that the demand for SUVs would continue because gas prices would continue to rise, I would assess the scientific practicality of the assumption in an attempt to assess if the assumption analyzed the problem in question. On the airlines assumption that there was a need for an airline that provided no added amenities, I would assess the practicality of the decisions made since

Globalization Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Globalization - Research Paper Example The research swill discuss in depth the pros and cons of the phenomenon of McDonaldization. In this study, the researcher is going to analyze the effects McDonaldization has on the society. From the research, a person is able to judge whether the phenomenon is to expected, accepted, rejected, or if it is inevitable. The study will explain why the term McDonaldization was used as a concept of bureaucracy in the early days. The phenomenon was an organizational structure aimed at rationalizing and standardizing the society’s products and services, and the processes involved in producing them. However, from the study, it will be evident that the concept differs from bureaucracy. The concept concerns itself with five points that the paper shall discuss. They include efficiency, calculability, predictability, and control. The study aims at explaining the concept of McDonaldization. In addition, the study will help the people understand to what extent the concept has influenced the employees of the 21st century. It shall discuss the possible consequences for theories of human motivation. Users of this study will understand whether the concept of McDonaldization applies equally to all the jobs. The journal by Kellner described McDonaldization as a process by which the principles of the fast food outlets has taken over majority of the American’s and the rest of the world’s sectors. The author explains how the concept has affected nearly every aspect of today’s society. Nevertheless, the author predicts the concept shall influence the aspects of the future’s society (Kellner 1). In the interview, Ritzer argued that the concept serves the world as a directing force. From his own words, Ritzer implies that the human beings adapt to every turn that the world makes. Definitely, change is good, and McDonaldization is one of the changes the world is adopting. Many companies that follow the concept have achieved immense success. For

Capstone Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Capstone - Assignment Example The iPhone, for instance, continues to be the most popular smartphone in the world today with their latest iPhone 6 already out. Forbes magazine projects the company could sell up to 70.9 million units of the new smartphone (Badenhausen, 2014). The company’s mission has also made Apple come up with the most innovative products and feature hence making it the most profitable company in the world with annual brand revenue of $170.9 Billion (†(Badenhausen, 2014). Unlike other companies, however, Apple has no written vision statement. Instead, the company’s vision is manifested through its leadership like Steve Jobs and current C.E.O Tim Cook. These leaders coin philosophies that they then pass on to the departments like Research and development which then try to come up with product concepts that are consistent with these philosophies. For instance, in the year 1998, former chief executive Steve Jobs envisioned a paradigm shift in the conventional design of personal computers and led his team into a revolution that was to change the norm permanently by introducing the iMac computer. This has given the company an edge in innovation and creativity. Some of the primary stakeholders of Apple include lenders, company employees, developers, and customers. These groups have also impacted the company in significant ways. For instance, the company enjoys an almost fanatical following from its customers. These customers have been the driving force behind apples astronomical sales figures over the years (Jones &Hill 2011). The developers have helped contribute innovative product ideas which have enabled the company produces cutting edge technological devices like the iPad. Overall, the company’s primary stakeholders have had a significant impact on Apple’s bottom line. For apple computers, the threat of new market entrants especially in the smartphone and personal computers category is significantly lower

Economy in Italy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Economy in Italy - Essay Example S&P revised its estimates based on the GDP in Italy which show only an average growth of .7% between 2011 and 2014 which is much lower than what was projected in previous information that the growth would be somewhere around 1.3%. With the upward pressure on the funding costs in private and public sectors and a dampened external demand, in addition to austerity measures that have been put into place by the government, it is likely that the growth will far less than was previously predicted (Ellis). Italy appears to be in trouble and this does not bode well for the next three years. The nation has a great number of resources where its history is concerned, but it appears that its present is in a conflicted state that might make visiting the nation a more difficult or less appealing prospect. With the turmoil in the government, it might be wise to assess the current state of affairs before visiting the country as well as assess the stability of the Euro as it is used in the nation. Showing that the news is ever evolving and connected, Dominic Rushe wrote an article about the economic conditions in Italy in relationship to the way it will affect the entire European economic situation. The credit rating service Moody’s has been the second service in a few weeks to downgrade the Italian rating, creating problems for the idea of lending to the nation and increasing the costs of borrowing for the state. Moody’s stated that it cut the rating because â€Å"sustained and non-cyclical erosion of confidence† (Rushe). An interesting point was made by Italy’s Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi who â€Å"criticised Moodys rival Standard & Poors when it cut Italys credit rating last month, saying the ratings agencys action was "dictated more by newspaper stories than by reality" (Rushe). This commentary furthers the idea that much of the economy is

Capstone Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Capstone - Assignment Example The iPhone, for instance, continues to be the most popular smartphone in the world today with their latest iPhone 6 already out. Forbes magazine projects the company could sell up to 70.9 million units of the new smartphone (Badenhausen, 2014). The company’s mission has also made Apple come up with the most innovative products and feature hence making it the most profitable company in the world with annual brand revenue of $170.9 Billion (†(Badenhausen, 2014). Unlike other companies, however, Apple has no written vision statement. Instead, the company’s vision is manifested through its leadership like Steve Jobs and current C.E.O Tim Cook. These leaders coin philosophies that they then pass on to the departments like Research and development which then try to come up with product concepts that are consistent with these philosophies. For instance, in the year 1998, former chief executive Steve Jobs envisioned a paradigm shift in the conventional design of personal computers and led his team into a revolution that was to change the norm permanently by introducing the iMac computer. This has given the company an edge in innovation and creativity. Some of the primary stakeholders of Apple include lenders, company employees, developers, and customers. These groups have also impacted the company in significant ways. For instance, the company enjoys an almost fanatical following from its customers. These customers have been the driving force behind apples astronomical sales figures over the years (Jones &Hill 2011). The developers have helped contribute innovative product ideas which have enabled the company produces cutting edge technological devices like the iPad. Overall, the company’s primary stakeholders have had a significant impact on Apple’s bottom line. For apple computers, the threat of new market entrants especially in the smartphone and personal computers category is significantly lower

Brand marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Brand marketing - Essay Example Brand is the design, name, symbol, term or other characteristic that generally identifies whether a product is distinct or can be differentiated from other sellers’ products.A brand is considered as an intangible assetEffective branding strategy helps an organization to achieve several potential competitive advantages in competitive global market place. Several leading organizations around the globe are trying to increase their core competencies through the implementation of several unique competitive strategies. This particular essay will discuss various theories in order to assess the relationship of different customers with several B2C brands. This essay will consider and evaluate various authors’ academic literature regarding a brand. Moreover, the essay will reveal how a brand can drive both financial and non financial brand performance metrics. Finally the essay will summarize and conclude the whole findings. Discussion This part of the essay will provide answers of two essay questions. Question (A) It has been discussed earlier that brand is an intangible asset. The brand owners effectively manage their brands in order to develop shareholder value. Several organizations adopt branding to differentiate their products from other market competitors. This branding is subsequently used in marketing, advertisement and business. Coca Cola is a key modern example of brand that belongs to the Coca Cola Company. Several organizations generally focus on brand valuation. Brand valuation is a key management technique which ascribes a significant monetary value to brand (Ariely, 2009, p.23). Moreover, it allows the organization to manage the marketing investments to maximize the value of shareholders. Appropriate branding strategy can result in high sales growth. For example, if a customer likes regular Coke under the Coca Cola Company, then the customer will surely try other products under the company. Brand is a significant personality that helps to id entify a company or a product or a service. According to Kotler (2000), a brand can be defined as the name that is associated with one or more than one product in the specific product line of an organization (Kotler, 2000, p.396). Whenever a marketer or an organization develops a new name, design or logo for a newly developed product, he or she has developed a brand. Branding is one of the initial and important steps within the product or service marketing process. According to Urde (1999), for a longer period of time brand has been treated as the important element of a product or a service (Urde, 1999, p.197). Some individuals distinguished the psychological aspect and brand associations like feelings, perceptions, images, thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, thoughts and experiences. However, the experiential aspect consists of the sum of total points of contacts associated with the brand. This is known as brand experience. According to Baldegger (2012), this brand experience is known as a specific brand action that is perceived by an individual. Sometimes this psychological aspect can be referred as brand image. Brand image is a symbolic construct that is developed within customers’ mind (Baldegger, 2012, p.39). Brand image consists of expectations and information associated with an organization or a product or a service. It is important for an organization to carefully develop a brand management strategy. Careful brand management strategy seeks to develop products and services related to the target audience. It is important for the organizations to achieve significant brand recognition of their products and services (Browayes and Price, 2008, p.192). Effective branding strategy always increases the core competency of a product or service. A strong brand name always demand high price for the products or services as a strong brand name always develops strong brand awareness and market demand. Strong brand

Causes and Effect of Poverty Essay Example for Free

Causes and Effect of Poverty Essay The level of poverty, causes and effects on the Educational sector as well as academic performance of students within the Nigeria is worrisome. Poverty, which forms a specific culture and way of life, is a growing issue in Nigeria. The number of Nigerians living in poverty is continually increasing; hence its effects on students performance. This research focuses on the causes and effects of poverty on the academic performance of pupils in primary school, using primary school within Pankshin Local Government as a case study. To create a comprehensive overview of the study and data collection, both primary and secondary methods were used. The primary method includes the questionnaire while secondary method includes books, articles, results and academics performance of students between 2005 – 2011. Questionnaires were distributed among three (3) randomly chosen primary schools, and the returned questionnaires were collated, analysed and interpreted. The results showed that majority of students in primary schools studied have parents who are living below poverty line subsequently, this affects their performance in school as a result of lack of income. Moreover, majority of the students whose parents are below poverty line have reported cases of different diseases which lead to absenteeism. Lastly, it was observed that some students dropout as a result of inability to pay tuition fees. This research hereby recommends that Government should team up with private bodies to make as well implement policies to reduce poverty. Finally, teachers are advised to inculcate teaching techniques that will help students understand the subject easily in order to perform well.

The Collectivisms Versus Individualism Appeals Cultural Studies Essay

The Collectivisms Versus Individualism Appeals Cultural Studies Essay Love the Internet, love being free-spirited, love getting up late, love the late night food stands, love car-racing and T-shirts for 29RMB as well. I am not a standard-bearer, nor am I someones spokesman, I am HanHan, I just represent myself. When you read this script, do you think that it is an advert launched in the western markets? Actually, it is an advert campaign of a fashion apparel B2C company in China. It is quite interesting to launch an ad which claims I-conscious in a highly collectivistic country. In this essay, the writer will mainly analyze the cultural values behind the ad and discuss how this ad is trying to change the attitudes of the Chinese from group-oriented to self-oriented by using consumer behavior frameworks, such as Maslows hierarchy of needs, Fishbeins behavioral intention model and advertising engagement modes. Background Vancl is a B2C company who sells quality fashion clothing and accessories on-line in China (Appendix 1). It was founded in 2007, and now it has become the NO.1 Chinese fashion apparel B2C enterprise who is occupying 28.4% market share, according to the Report of e-business on fashion apparel industry in China 2009-2010 (http://en.vancl.com). As the concept of the company is to provide quality and stylish apparel at a reasonable price, it considers urban young adults from 18 to 28 years old as its target audiences (http://en.vancl.com). In order to target more consumers and enhance the influence of the brand, Vancl launched an advertising campaign (Appendix 2) in 2010, which achieved a huge success in China. This study is aim to analyze the culture behind the ad campaign based on consumer behavior area. Literature Review Collectivism versus Individualism Appeals in Chinese Adverts Hofstede (1980) developed an individualism-collectivism dimension to differentiate culture. This concept was concluded by Oyserman et al. (2002) that collectivism could be considered as the opposite of individualism, which was usually reflected in the East Asian culture. In thecollectivistic culture, concept of self is relevant to others and the society as a whole (Mooij 2004), which cannot be separated from their social context (Phillips 1976; Shweder 1984). Thus, Families, work groups, social roles, positions, or relationships should be offered as the top priority in an individuals behavior (Mooij 2004, p.96). In the communication level, Individualism-collectivism dimension divides the self-concept into independent self and interdependent self appealed by low-context and high-context communication, affecting in the communication behavior (Mooij 2004). In general, high-context communication occurs more prevalent in collectivistic culture while low-context communication reflects a communication style in individualistic culture (Hall and Hall 1987, Zandpour et al. 1992, Mooij 2004). Therefore, more copy is used in adverts developed in the individualistic countries. By contrast, collectivistic countries use more visual elements in their ads (Mooij 2004). According to Hofstedes (2001) framework of culture dimensions, China is a highly collectivistic country. Collectivism concept congests in the daily life of Chinese. For instance, people are more likely to say, I often watch basketball games with my family and friends. instead of I am a sports fan.' (Liang and Joseph 2010, p.189). Consequently, the level of collectivism may have an impact on the design of local advertising. A host of researchers (for example: Dana et al.1993; Han and Shavitt 1994) have found that collectivistic ideas appear in adverts are more prevalent in the higher collectivism countries, such as China, Japan and South Korea, etc. Similarly, Carolyn (2001) pointed out that group consensus appeals more in Chinese adverts than in American ads. And unlike the commercials in U.S., Chinese were generally we-conscious instead of I-conscious. A research, conducted by Cheng and Schweitzer (1996), identified three main cultural values, in terms of modernity, youth and family dominated in Chinese advertisements, which were much different from the results in the United States (enjoyment, modernity and individualism). Besides, the study also found that comparing with the idea of individualism and manipulation over nature, harmony of social status and oneness with nature were much more frequently discovered in the Chinese advertising (ibid.). Some researches (for example: Belk et al. 1985; Belk and Pollay 1985; Belk and Bryce 1986; Mueller 1987; Paek et al. 2004), however, revealed that the style of the advertisements in some eastern countries was tending to be Americanized and becoming more individualistic orientations. Zhang and Shavitt (2003), for instance, analyzed 463 Chinese advertisements and found that both modernity/individualism values and tradition/collectivism values existed or dominated in Chinese Ads. The former values were more prevalent in personal use products ads, while the latter were more common in the ads promoting shared products. Difference in Appearance and Fashion Advertising Appeals across Culture Mooij (2004) used three culture dimensions, in terms of uncertain avoidance, power distance, and individualism-collectivism, to explain the different needs of appearance in different countries. A map (Appendix 3) was designed to illustrate the importance of appearance in the different cultural valued countries by using individualism-collectivism and uncertain avoidance dimensions, according to the country scores calculated by Hofstede (2001). Mooij (2004) claimed that the degrees of uncertain avoidance determined the proportion of consumption spending of individuals, while the dimension of individualism-collectivism differentiated the purpose of well-dressing between suitability of occasion and earning face. Besides, the higher power distance of culture was, the more degrees people would depend on others. Moreover, Mooij (ibid.) mentioned that self-consciousness was another factor to identify the differences in appearance. Similarly, Phillips and McQuarrie (2010) reviewed numerous of researches (for example: Green and Brock 2000; Holbrook and Hirschman 1982; Petty and Cacioppo 1981) and concluded five modes of fashion advertising engagement (Appendix 4) to illustrate the current situation of fashion ads worldwide. Among these five modes, many scholars (e.g., Murray 2002; Bannister and Hogg 2004; Thompson and Haytko 1997; Richins 1991) found that the engage for identity mode was the most common and traditional model appealed in the fashion adverts, which exactly coincided with Evans (1989) conclusion of three trends in fashion industry: (1) Peoples use of fashion reflects a desire to manifest the self; (2) the desire for self-expression is growing; and (3) there is a continuing need to match female (still the main buyers of clothing and cosmetics) self-images and brand images in more congruent ways (p. 10-11). Evan (ibid.) also suggested that self-expression and branding image were more important than fashion and styling newness when promoting a fashion brand. In General, the advertising appeals in collectivistic counties were more group-identity, while self-identity adverts worked more efficiently in individualistic countries (Cheng and Schweitzer 1996). However, Vancl uses a contrary ad appeals to promote the brand. In the next part, a detailed semiotic analysis will be conducted to explore the different appeals in this advert. Semiotic Analysis According to Solomon (2008 p.103), semiotics is a study of the correspondence between signs and symbols and their roles in how we assign meanings ¼Ã…’which can be interpreted into different information based on the knowledge, culture values, personality and skills of different interpreter. Therefore, analysis of semiotic elements containing in the advert, can help the researcher understand detailed information the advert wants to deliver. There are three components in every marketing message, which should be combined when analyzing an advert, namely an object (product), a sign (symbol), and an interpretant/meaning (Schiffman and Kanuk, 2004). Vancls advertising campaign is developed to two versions divided by gender. Each version includes large amount of signs and symbols which ccn be interpreted. For example, the price of the clothing marked in the advertisement gives a rough idea of the target audiences. Then the audiences analyze this information using their knowledge, persona lity and skills based on the different culture, such as considering the average price of this kind of clothing in the market, and calculate that the price is affordable and reasonable. Another interpretation of price can be considered as high uncertain avoidance. More specifically, if consumers have known the price before they purchase, they can avoid the risk of buying inappropriate products. Thus, in this ad, marked price can be interpreted into both price-friendly and avoidance of risk (Figure 1). Adapted from Solomon, 2008. A Semiotic Relationship. Object Vancl clothing Sign Marked price Interpretant Price-friendly Risk avoidance Personality Skills Knowledge Culture Figure 1: An Example of a Semiotic Relationship in Vancl Advertising In order to understand the messages interpreted in this advertising campaign by different targets, the writer interviewed five people who spoke Mandarin by asking them to use three words to describe the personality containing in this ad. The top three personalities referred most frequently were self-conscious, lively and enjoyment in life. Here, self-conscious means that the ad is I-conscious oriented, expresses a sense of confidence, self-respect and self-fulfillment. Lively can be explained that the ad appeals are more related to daily life and realistic, while enjoyment in life means that a sense of fun, enjoyment and happiness towards life. Based on this interview result, a detailed semiotic analysis is conducted and summarized (Appendix 5). According to Maslows hierarchy of needs theory (1987), clothing can be categorized to the physiological needs, which is the most basic need of humans. However, from the results of semiotics interpretation, the writer found that Vancl focused on targeting the audiences to the forth level needs self-esteem needs (Appendix 6). As it is shown from the survey, Vancl encourages people to be confident and self-respect, clothing is no matter the basic needs of human beings. Wearing Vancl apparel can help the consumers achieve to self-esteem level. Moreover, another finding is discovered. The three personalities concluded by the respondents are much similar to the elements (excitement, fun and enjoyment in life, self-fulfillment, self-respect, etc.) of the List of Value (LOV), a value approach developed by Kahle and Timmer (1983). Surprisingly, these three personalities, which generally occur in the most western counties, are opposite to the culture value in China concluded by Hofstede (2001, Figure 2). As it is shown by the individualism index, the score (20) is lower than the average of other Asian countries (24), which means that China owns a highly collectivistic culture. Chinese consider group as their priority, focus more on their families, friends and society as a whole, than themselves (Mooij, 2004). The writer analyzes the ads in depth on the basis of the Hofstedes culture values (Appendix 7) and finds that, although collectivism deeply influences on the development of Chinese advertisements, Vancls ad campaign, howeve r, pays a lot attention to self concept. Take the script as an example. The copy of two versions keeps the format of Love à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦, I am not à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦, I am à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦, which is much different from the we-conscious adverts in collectivistic countries. It emphasizes self, and gives the opinions of the individuals instead of groups, which reflects an individualistic cultural value. Individualism Masculinity Power Distance Uncertainty Avoidance Time Orientation China Low Individualism (20) Masculine (66) High (80) Low (30) Long (118) Figure 2: Hofstedes Framework for Assessing Culture China Furthermore, this campaign seems to reform the advertising layout from a traditional way to a new style. As it is shown, there are two versions exclusively designed by gender. The layout of these two versions is similar: there is an image of the spokesman in the left of the picture, while a script containing large information in the right. This is also an uncommon way of the traditional Chinese advertisements. Lastly, according to Fishbein and Ajzen (1980), brand attitude and subject norm are two components which influence the intention and finally determine the purchasing behavior. In highly collectivistic countries, subjective norm stands for an important position in this evaluation process (Lee, 1991). In this case, however, Vancl shifts consumers focuses from subjective norm to brand attitude (Figure 3). Therefore, it can be considered that Vancls ad is trying to change Chineses attitudes from collectivism to individualism. Adapted from Fishbein and Ajzen, 1980. Fishbeins Extended Model of Behavioral Intention. + + Behavioral Intention Vancl Normative Beliefs Friends recommend the brand to me, it seems suit me. Norm Evaluations When wearing Vancl, I am more acceptable among friends and feel that I am one in the group. Collectivism Subjective Norm + Brand Beliefs Just be yourself Belief Evaluations When wearing Vancl, I seem to achieve a unique and self-esteemed life like the celebrities own. Self conscious Brand Attitude Figure 3: Model of Behavioral Intention of Vancl How to Change Attitudes Undoubtedly, it is not facile for a brand to change the attitudes of consumers, especially changing an ingrained notion which has rooted for thousands of years. Harmony is a central concept of Confucian, which results in the group-oriented behaviors in Chinese. According to the appearance map (Mooij, 2004), China is categorized in the left-bottom quadrant, represents a culture of low uncertain avoidance and highly collectivistic. People in this kind of culture pay a lot attention on face, context, low-structured and conformity, who generally buy clothing based on others opinions. What is Vancl doing is to shift the appearance concept of Chinese from the left-bottom quadrant to the right-bottom quadrant, where UK and U.S. are, representing an individualistic culture. Consequently, Vancl engages the ad with self-identity concept. During this attitude changing process, the ad focuses on the elements of celebrities and scripts to evoke the ideal self of the consumers (Figure 4). Adapted from Phillps and McQuarrie, 2010. Modes of Advertising Engagement in Womens Fashion. Mode of Engagement Ad Element Focus Processing Style Conceptual Metaphor Engage to Self-identity Celebrities Scripts Attitude Changing Process Ideal Status Figure 4: Mode of Advertising Engagement of Vancl From analyzing the ad, some clues of the reason why Vancl successfully changes the attitudes of its consumers can be discovered. Firstly, the boom of Chinese economy contributes to the process of culture exchange. An Increasing number of foreign enterprises develop their business in China and bring their culture. Besides, the development of technology helps Chinese access to the culture from different countries via TV, Internet, etc. All these are unconsciously influencing the cultural values of Chinese, which provides a prerequisite for Vancl to implement this advertising campaign. Moreover, the effect of celebrity plays an important role in the attitudes changing process. As what suggested by Malhotra (1988), using a spokesperson was an essential marketing strategy to help to match the brand image with consumers self-concept. HanHan and WangLuoDan, the two spokesmen Vancl selected, own high preferences among Chinese youth, and their characters meet the image of Vancl as well. As celebrities represent a sense of credit, attractiveness and power (Kelman, 1961), consumers can be easily influenced. Especially in the collectivistic countries, consumers are eager for the acceptance from peers and society, following celebrities is a clever way to make them acceptable. Finally, the execution of the ad assists in achieving the purpose of attitude changing. The different version by gender designed on the basis of different cultural value of males and females, targets to audiences widely and accurately. The scripts express the opinions of a unique attitude towards life from the celebrities, which influence consumers powerfully. Since China ranks high score in collectivism, the scripts are designed on this special situation: claim to be I-conscious; meanwhile, meet the traditional cultural values of Chinese. More specifically, although most of the scripts advocate self-identity, at the end of the scripts, Vancl utilizes the collectivistic culture to call for in-group and offers a sense of involvement. The last sentence, I am like you; I am Vancl (common people), gives the consumers a hint that it is not difficult to achieve such life as the two celebrities own, wearing Vancl helps to be this ideal self both in the private context and social context. Thus, it can be concluded that three factors contribute to help Vancl change the attitude of Chinese consumers, namely impact of other culture, influence of celebrities, and elaborate ad execution (such as scripts and visual design, etc.). These three factors combined as the persuasion stimuli, affect on the attitude changing process from collectivism and group-oriented to individualism and self-conscious. This impact is not only influence the target audience, but also powerful to publics. Consequently, wearing Vancl is a personal choice, which helps consumers achieve their ideal self. As the attitudes of publics are changed as well, it unifies the opinion of what others think of you and what you really want to be (Figure 5). Actual Self Collectivism Group-identity Impact of other culture Elaborate execution of ad Influence of celebrities Attitude Changing Focus on self Just be yourself Self-oriented Idea Self Self-esteemed Confident Enjoyment of life Social Self Unique Confident Enjoyment of life VANCL Appeal to Individualism oriented Involvement In group Figure 5: Framework of Attitude Changing Process of Vancl Advert In conclusion, self-concept plays an important role in Vancl advert campaign. The ad delivers the message that Vancl represents who you are and what you are not' (Rune and Rosemary 2006, p.868). Thus, wearing Vancl can promote self-concept of consumers, and correspondingly bolster up their actual or ideal view of themselves (Fournier 1998). Based on this purpose, Vancl uses two spokespersons, who own high reputation among Chinese youth and also have a unique lifestyle, to help the brand promote self-concept. As Carroll (2009) referred, this is an efficient way for a brand to shift the culture from that brand to consumer. Moreover, using celebrities also helps Vancl persuade or change the attitudes towards their consumers (Kardes et al. 2010) from group-oriented to self-conscious. Just like Kelman (1961) claimed, attitudes could be changed through three processes: internalization, identification and compliance. For consumers, HanHan and WangLuoDan represent a credible, attractive and powerful image. Thus, their persuasion could help the brand reform a new attitude or behavior to attract the consumers to imitate through the referred three processes (ibid.), and finally achieve the purpose of changing the attitudes of their consumers. Limitations Admittedly, the article may not have analyzed the advert roundly, and still have some limitations as well. Firstly, as it is an ad in China, the translation of the copy may not very accurately due to different language expression, which may cause some different interpretations of signs or symbols and correspondingly influence the different understanding of this advert. Moreover, the frameworks developed in this study are exclusively suitable for Vancl. Although celebrity endorsement has become increasingly popular since 1970s (Tom et al., 1992; Agrawal Kamakura, 1995), there are not enough studies to prove that it works on most of adverts which try to change the attitudes of their consumers. Thus, Further quantitative and qualitative researches are required for determine whether the model of this study also suit for other brands or industries in China. Finally, consumer behavior across is a deep and wide topic, which can be reflect to other subjects, such as psychology, sociology and history, etc. Therefore, there may be still some factors across other subjects influencing the attitude changing process of Vancl advert. Conclusion This article begins with a rough introduction and background of the Vancl advert campaign in China. The literature review part focuses on collectivism-individualism culture dimension and cultural appeals in Chinese adverts, difference in appearance and fashion advert appeals between different cultural values. Moreover, self-concept and celebrity endorsement are also included. Semiotic analysis gives an outline of the advert and helps to understand the advert thoroughly. In order to acquire more accurate message and cultural values containing in the ad, a survey is conducted among five Chinese speakers. Consequently, three main advert personalities are determined, namely self-conscious, lively and enjoyment in life, which could be explained to the self-esteem needs by Maslows hierarchy of needs. Then Fishbeins extended model of behavioral intention help to define the influence of the Vancl ad on the purchasing behavioral intention. The next part explains the methods Vancl used in the ad to change the attitudes of consumers from group-conscious to self-conscious by using an adapted advertising engagement model. And then a framework of attitude changing process of Vancl advert is finally developed. Recommendations Based on the limitations and conclusion parts, the writer summarizes some recommendations both for further research and brand managers. For further research, more quantitative and qualitative researches should be conducted to create a model, which suits for different brands in other categories who want to develop a self-identity advert campaign in a highly collectivistic country. Besides, more subjects, such as psychology, sociology, history, economics, etc., should be related to determine other factors which affect the attitude changing process, so that the model can be modified. For managers, the collectivism level of different products is different. Thus, claiming self-identity in the ad is another way when promoting a less collectivistic product in a highly collectivistic country, such as clothing and cosmetics. In the collectivistic countries, it seems to be a unique way to promote a brand and help the advert outstanding among other ads, however, it is not omnipotent. What should managers do, is to analyze the market accurately and frame an advert campaign which precisely suit the brand.

Jerry Springer Compared To Oprah Winfrey :: essays research papers fc

Springer vs. Winfrey   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the world of entertainment, TV talk shows have undoubtedly flooded every inch of space on daytime television. Many of us have seen and heard the often recycled topics found on such veteran shows as Geraldo and Sally Jesse Raphael. Anyone who watches talk shows on a regular basis knows that each one varies in style and format. One might enjoy watching the sometimes trashy subject matter found on Jenny Jones, while someone else might prefer the more serious and light-hearted feel of the Maury Povich show. But no two shows are more profoundly opposite in the content, while at the same time standing out above the rest, than the Jerry Springer and Oprah Winfrey shows.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jerry Springer could easily be considered the king of â€Å"trash talk.† The topics on his show are as shocking as they come. For example, the show takes the ever common talk show themes of love, lust, sex, sexuality, adultery, cheating, guilt, hate, conflict and morality to a different level. In a vintage Springer show, one finds women who cheated on their boyfriends and are ready to confess. But the boyfriends are in for an even bigger surprise when they find out who their girlfriends have been cheating with. As the secret lovers are patiently waiting back stage, the girlfriends confess that they have been cheating on their men with other women. Another episode seemed reminiscent of the John and Lorenna Bobbitt case, only more twisted. A man cuts off his own genitals because he claimed that his homosexual neighbor was stalking him. Shocking, indeed, but the list of talk material goes on from dangerous love triangles, broken homes, pregnant strippers, teen age prostitutes, adult film stars, devil worshippers, and the always popular rates booster, the KKK. Clearly, the Jerry Springer Show is a display and exploitation of societies moral catastrophes; yet people are willing to eat up the intriguing mishaps of other people’s lives.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Oprah Winfrey was once a follower of the trash TV format, but her long running popular TV talk show has since been reformed. Like Jerry Springer, the Oprah Winfrey Show takes talk TV to its extreme, but Oprah goes in the opposite direction. Oprah’s show is probably the most immaculate talk show there is. It is unlikely that you will find guests on Oprah that have committed adultery, or have sold their souls to the devil. Instead, the show focuses on the improvement of society and an individual’s quality of life.

Religion Support And Education Essay -- essays research papers fc

Religion Support and Education As it stands, we are the transition stage. We have no structure, there is no black and white, we live in a clouded time. All questions are being answered again, because the past is no longer the present. No person knows if our corrections are correct, but they do know it is what the majority wants. The question which is rarely looked at, and that will be looked at in this paper, is the effects which this transition is having on society. This paper is going to attempt to reveal the results, of the removal of religious education and support. The literature involved is going to display the direct, and indirect effects, of not being brought up to believe a certain religion, but to choose your own, no matter what it is. The past beliefs on religious support and education are displayed in the words of Aristotle; "Moral virtues come from habit... The habits we form from childhood make no small difference, but rather they make all the difference." 1 Our society has decided that the habits referred to by Aristotle, do not matter, when involving religion. Statistics tend to show a different result than what our present society feels. This paper is dealing with several different valid sources, which mesh together to make a collective statement. This statement is that the lack of religious support is one of the main reasons why society and its morals are decreasing. World Vision of Canada has published as of November 1993 statistics dealing with the attendance of church and youth, which states; Canada's church attendance, in all denominations has decreased by twenty-five percent in adults and fifteen percent in youth. In Britain Adult attendance is down ten percent and youth attendance is down nine percent. In France the adult attendance is down thirteen percent, statistics for youth where not available. Australia's adult attendance has decreased twenty-seven percent, and the youth attendance was not available. The most considerable changes have occurred in the United States were fourty-one percent of the adult attendance has decreased, and thirty-five percent of the youth attendance has decreased. 2 These statistics display the implications of the removal of religious education ... ...r society is suffering. But- it states that the absence of religion in our society is a contributing factor. Because- religion promotes such values, as marriage and commitment, while disapproving of such things as suicide and abortion. BIBLIOGRAPHY Context. Mississauga, Ont: Marc Canada, 1993. FRC. (http://frc.org/townhall/frc/press/121995c.html). "Divorce Issues". 1995. FRC. (http://www.townhall.com/townhall/FRC/infocus/if95c4wl.html). "Abortion Statistics".1995. Korman, Sheila K and Leslie Gerald R. The Family In Social Context(Sixth Edition). Toronto, Ont: Oxford University Press, 1985. O' Bireck, Gary M. Not A Kid Anymore. Toronto, Ont: Nelson Canada, 1996. Waters, F. W. The Way In The Way Out. Toronto, Ont: Oxford University Press, 1967. ENDNOTES 1 Not A Kid Anymore. (Toronto; Nelson Canada, 1996) p.87. 2 Context. (Mississauga; Marc Canada, 1993) p. 32 3 Ibid. p. 47. 4 Ibid. p. 47. 5 Ibid. p. 52. 6 Ibid. p. 67. 7 Not A Kid Anymore. (Toronto; Nelson Canada, 1996) p.95. 8 Abortion Satistics. (http://www.townhall.com/townhall/frc/infocus/if95c4wl.html, 1995.) 9 Ibid. 10 Divorce Issues. (http://frc.org/townhall/frc/press/121995c.html, 1995.)

Climate Change Essay

The weather has been completely different the last few years for us in Indiana because it has been warm winters and really hot summers. The bad thing about having warm winters is that it does not kill off the bugs for the summer months. It will make them worse than what they were the summer before and have greater risks for diseases from mosquitoes like malaria and diarrheal diseases. When we had a drought a few summers ago, too, it was hard for farmers to grow their crops and to supply enough food for people. Not having enough food could lead to malnutrition, which could be very harmful and even cause death to people. The weather has many effects for people around the world. The planet’s weather is expected to become not only warmer on average, but more variable, with more frequent and intense heat waves, droughts, and torrential rains. Warmer air holds more moisture, so the global hydrologic cycle is expected to accelerate and intensify, leading to violent storms and stronger hurricanes. In addition to their effects on infectious diseases, such extremes of weather pose direct physical risks to the humans in their path-heat stroke, drowning, dehydration, and injury. (DeWeerdt, 2007) If the weather continues to be more variable with extremely hot summers that will cause more injuries for people and for the planet. It would cause more heat strokes and higher death rates. The climate change will affect the weather and cause more serious storms that would be worse than Hurricane Katrina, the August 2005 storm that slammed into the U.S. Gulf Coast and inundated New Orleans. Scientists believe that we would expect to see more storms like that possibly even worse if the climate keeps changing. Another factor for climate change is over population in the world and they are interlinked in complex ways. Most obviously, population growth worsens climate change-more people on the planet means more carbon dioxide emissions. And Parry and Rosenzweig’s modeling of food security indicates that reducing the rate of global population growth would do more to reduce the number of hungry people in the world than would limit climate change. (DeWeerdt, 2007) Limiting the number of hungry people in the world would possibly limit the number of malnutrition people in the world. If the climate keeps changing  globally, food production is likely to decrease because the weather will not be the best in the parts of the world that crops are best grown. There are researchers from various institutions have been modeling the possible effects of climate change on production of the world’s staple grain crops: wheat, rice, maize, and soybeans. Their work integrates several complex computer models-of global climate, crop yields, world food trade, and various patterns of economic development and population growth-to predict future global agricultural production and the risk of hunger. Globalization will have to come into play for trade because some countries will be able to grow certain crops better than others. Not all countries can be the best at growing all crops. If everyone is able to help then we will all be able to lower malnutrition and help lower the hunger rate. Finally, much research on climate change and infectious disease has focused on vector-borne diseases, in which a pathogen is carried from one human host to another by a third species, often a mosquito or other type of insect. Common vector-borne diseases in developing countries include malaria and dengue fever; both transmitted by mosquitoes, and in developed countries Lyme disease, transmitted by ticks. (DeWeerdt, 2007) If the climate changes and people have to make manmade rivers to help their crops it could cause breeding areas for mosquitos or other types of insects that carry the diseases. The diseases can be extremely harmful and even cause death to humans and animals. The populations most at risk from the spread of malaria may be those at the margins of the disease’s present distribution in developing countries without good access to health care. As malaria invades these new areas, its effects may become more severe. â€Å"When you have an outbreak in an area where people are not immune, they’ve not been exposed to malaria regularly, mortality can be 20 or 30 percent,† Kristie Ebi says-compared to about 3 percent in areas where the disease is long established. Moreover, because malaria is such a common disease-infecting half a billion people each year and killing 1 to 2 million-a very slight increase in the relative risk of the disease can translate into hundreds of thousands of additional cases. (DeWeerdt, 2007) These numbers could rise if the climate is changing because weather temperatures will be warming than usually and increase breeding for insects. Overall, climate change is possible and it is happening. Everyone has had temperature changes in the summer and winter that were above normal. Our winters have not been extreme to kill off many of the insets and help with eliminating possible disease carrying insects. The weather also will affect the growth of food and need to start world trade to make sure we can try to eliminate hunger across the world. This could be difficult with worse storms that could happen with the climate change. It seems it is a circle because if there is bad weather it will affect our growth for food and the population to insects, such as mosquitos, will increase which will increase the diseases around the world. Works Cited DeWeerdt, S. (2007, May/June). Climate Change, Coming Home. Retrieved April 26, 2014, from WorldWatch Institue: http://www.worldwatch.org/node/5019

Warped Tour And better – Creative Writing

I gazed up in amazement at the enormous steel arch which made up the railway bridge, which I, together with the other thousands of fans, was shuffling under making our way towards the vast expanse of open fields that constituted the concert arena. I hoisted myself onto the metal barrier enclosing the mass of people and slowly inched my way toward the make shift box office to collect my tickets. By the time I reached the box office it was eleven thirty and it was 100à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½F. The midday sun was harsh and I could feel the heat cutting across my neck like a red hot rapier. The dust was incredible. The grass had been worn away by the thousands of shoes scouring it, causing a permanent haze of dust to envelope the crowd as they rushed into the field beyond. As I crumpled against a steel post forming a chain link fence, I peered down at my feet and noticed rivers of sweat cascading down my legs and evaporating into the haze. Every time I took a breath I felt an abrasive sensation in my throat, causing a painful scratching around my tonsils, which I eventually relieved by bringing up a ball of brown mucus which I spat out onto the dusty ground and rubbed into the earth with my foot. I got the tickets. Once past the tickets and through a series of security checks I ambled into centre of a cluster of around two hundred gazebos, all of them hung with eye catching decorations, selling a vast variety of music paraphernalia, however, I was looking for just one tent; the DRIVE-THRU RECORDS tent. Quickly I paced through serried ranks of displays until a glint of orange caught the corner of my eye and there in bold, black print were the words DRIVE-THRU RECORDS. I barged through the throng of people twisting and turning until I arrived at the stand and was greeted by my sister who had managed to obtain VIP entry to the venue. As I gazed over her shoulder I spied tables decked with musical memorabilia and perched on the edge of one of the tables was a large glass jug containing cool, clear water. Grabbing the jug I swigged the water down in two massive gulps and wiped my hand across my mouth licking the final few droplets from around my lips. Having been refreshed I continued my quest to find the stages, however it was cut short when a magnificent cheer erupted from my right. Spurred on by this roar of excitement I grabbed my friend and dragged him with me toward the noise. We burst through the line of the regimented gazebos and finally found ourselves in the crushing surge of people pressing towards the stage. Surveying the crowd we spied gaps and quickly manoeuvred our way between the bodies until we could squeeze through any further as it was just too packed. As the guitarists struck the first chords the crowd went wild, pulsating into life, jumping, waving, screaming and shrieking with delight. The atmosphere was electric injecting everyone with pure adrenaline and energy. The last note was twanged and like a switch it caused the horde of people to slowly flood out towards the tents and huddle around the stalls selling water. But not me, because, as if by magic, my sister appeared about 100 yards away. She was waving two thin slips of orange paper, trying to lure me towards her. I couldn't quite make out what the papers were, but I had a good idea. I signalled to my friend to head toward her. As we got closer the slips seemed to glow a much more vibrant orange and I knew exactly what they were; backstage passes. Like a deer, frozen in headlights, I stood in a trance as she handed us the passes to stick around our wrists. Once I was out of my own world, my sister and I snaked through the crowd towards the tour bus whilst my friend shuffled to the front of the crowd to watch the next band. As I stepped onto the tour bus (which my sister had been staying on for the last five weeks) I felt a blast of cool clean air hit my face and the bus almost felt cold as I felt the hairs on my arms prick up. My sister grabbed two bottles and chucked one to me. She introduced me to a few of the other people retreating from the heat and then we headed out. Over the last few weeks when my sister had been away whenever I spoke to her over the phone she would brag about how she was making friends with some of the famous people on tour. One of them being someone who I practically worshiped! And I was about to meet him. I stared in disbelief as a man who I have posters of on my wall waved and smiled at my sister. The man, Travis Barker, was under a gazebo (guarded by the biggest man I'd ever seen) behind the main stage. He was leant over a small box with pads which would light up and he would hit them with his drum sticks. My sister walked up to him while I followed trying to work out if it was dream. My sister introduced me to him and when he shook my hand it sent a shiver down my spine. My sister and I spoke to him for a while despite the fact I was so dumbstruck. Eventually we had to leave as he had to play so I got him to sign my hat even though I felt stupid asking and we headed back to the tour bus. The rest of the day seemed to go quickly after this in a blur of watching bands and staggering to the tour bus for replenishment. The last image I have of the day is looking back at all the people, the astonishing size of the whole field and how amazing Warped Tour had been, but it was nothing like looking down at my hat which was I was clutching in my hand.