Original Writing Essay

As she lay there silently on her back, staring deeply into the intricate yet excruciatingly dull pattern on the textured ceiling- as if it were a piece of fine, overpriced artwork, she let her thought processes wander over exhausted terrain. She thought of life, of death, of love, of hate, of god†¦ and everything along the way. What was it all for? She began to scribble a few notes down on a piece of paper in front of her. Her mind began to flutter from one feeling to the next. â€Å"I’m reading all the time of hate and anger and frustration. I’m hearing nothing but the pain of others. I see the agony of all around me. And I have felt it, breathed it, been engulfed by it. I understand the need to vent, to get it all out. But I realise now that I can no longer accept it. Blood is on the minds of millions of innocent children, searching for an answer to this emptiness that harbours our death wish. We hold, in our hand, the power to steal†¦ but nothing is taken without payment. Give and take, live and let live. No harm done, no penalty. Even the most gentle of beings get judged by the monster. This is no dragon, no giant; this is a group, a society, a network. This monster is sacrificing the happiness of the innocent for suicide. This monster is killing off what may be our last chance. Children beaten down and left to bleed and to cry, they are screaming but no one cares, no one sees them. They are irrelevant, theses children are†¦ they are the children of you and yours and people you know. They are outcasts these children are. They are banned from beliefs of any sort of rebellion or belief in other gods. But these children need no god. These children worship themselves. They are good and are portrayed as evil, yet they are shunned and thrown away. Put on display for window shoppers to point and stare and mock. These children are not different, they are not unique. The children are minions banned together to have their freedom. They are slaves to the system. Their innocence is overlooked but ignorant bystanders and administrators. These children are against everything, against god, against the devil, against you, against me. They refuse to worship the nine inch nails of your so called â€Å"Christ†. You will never win! The children will persevere. The children will run free. You will die someday. They will to. They know that in the end we are all alone and you’ve spent your lives convinced that there is always someone looking out for you and your heretic children. These children know better than you. These children know fate. They know yours and you can sense it. They can smell the fear in your shattered voice. They can smell failure. The innocent children have a blood lust and a hit list†¦ I guess this means you will die. Too bad we couldn’t save you from the innocent children†¦ they killed us too. We are locked inside our minds and we are rotting here now† ‘Everything dies’ she thought, but she still hadn’t figured out how to truly live yet. Would her life come to an end before she even knew the answers to all of her questions? It seemed meaningless. Everything seemed that way lately. Her life had become a painful cycle of the same boring events, day after everlasting day. Her friends had begun to slowly detach themselves from her, and it made her question herself. She’d been gone for so long when she moved away, and her world felt wonderful when she had returned to her home, and the people she had taken advantage of before. They’d all seemed glad to see her, and she’d never felt so important. She fell back into her circle of friends and remembered all that she had walked away from. She was happy again, and that was good. One day, it was like the world had shifted suddenly and everything changed. People stopped talking to her. They no longer came by at all odd hours of the night bearing gifts and happy drug-induced smiles. Distancing them. Maybe they all finally came to the conclusion that they hadn’t been missing much after all. People tend to romanticize things to a definite fault, and when they realize they’ve set themselves up for disappointment, they don’t always realize that they themselves are not the only ones being affected by their great epiphany. They sometimes forget the person in the middle of it all, maybe even unintentionally, but without even thinking twice†¦ She asked herself what she possibly could have done to turn them away so suddenly. Was it just her character in general? Were some mindless beings getting rushes of power by spreading dirty lies about her as their new form of narrow-minded offence? Were they sick of her already? The fact that she found herself with so few people left to talk to wasn’t what bothered her. It was the fact that she was entirely oblivious to the cause of all of this landfill that made her question herself over and over again. The more she thought about it, the wider the possibility grew that they had never really enjoyed her company in the first place; it was all a terrible charade. She hated that she could be that person that people associated themselves with for mere lack of anything at all better to do. Was she that person that they all talked about in her absence, like she had seen them do to others in times passed? Did they avoid her when they saw her in the streets? Were they all ‘two-faced’ after all? Again, her reasoning began to shift. She wanted no part in any kind of comradeship with a person too shallow to tell her to ‘go away’ in person. She felt, she knew she was better off by herself. Somehow she felt more at ease in her own company anymore. She’d learned a lot about people in the years prior, and it sickened her to think about what humanity has come down to, how meaningless people have become. She honestly didn’t mind not having friends. Of course friends are wonderful to have, but she had found that she became more herself everyday she spent alone, and she liked that. She had come to the abrupt realization long ago that people really aren’t worth much anymore; definitely not worth wasting your days trying to change or analyze, or even hold a civil open conversation with, for that matter. And again, it all comes back around to the irrelevance of everything. Why had she just wasted her time thinking about these people that she doesn’t even like to surround herself with anymore? Since she’d returned, everything had changed so dramatically. Her friends were not the same people they had been three years ago, and they never would be again. She knew she could do nothing, and had accepted this fact, but it lingered painfully in the back of the bedlam of a mind she possessed. She wished for simpler times. She began to let her mind jump to other things. She’d tired herself of pondering anything even remotely related her connections with other people, and had come to the conclusion that she was indifferent on the matter. She really couldn’t bring herself to care much anymore. If someone desired to speak with her, they’d approach her, and she would listen, but making any sort of an effort to please another person seemed ridiculous to her – Meaningless. The past three hours had been meaningless, and so were the thoughts she had spent that time thinking. And now, so were the people that had provoked these very thoughts.

Crossing Brooklyn Ferry Essay

Ferry is considered one of the greatest lyrical poems of all time. In Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, Walt Whitman uses connotative diction, prying questions, and critical reader engagement to convey a feeling of connection and unity of people through time. By using these certain rhetoric strategies, Whitman creates a piece of poetry that seems to be timeless. Whitman carefully chooses certain words and phrases that really highlight his intentions to connect himself and others readers throughout time. In part 2 of the poem, Walt chooses the words â€Å"simple† and â€Å"compact† to describe a â€Å"scheme† in which we are all â€Å"disintegrated†. These words, precise and carefully chosen, attribute to the great lyricism of the poem. A scheme that is simple is a scheme that we can all live by. And a compact, simple scheme connotes togetherness. Whitman continues to say we’re all disintegrated, but part of the scheme. Being disintegrated could also means we are all little pieces of the same body, or scheme Another simple rhetoric strategy imposed by Whitman to convey a sense of unity between he and the reader is reader engagement. Whitman involves and engages the ready by asking the reader questions, and relating to the reader. By effectively asking questions, Whitman suggest to readers from past and future times that maybe there is not much that separates them. â€Å"What is it then between us? What is the count of scores or hundreds of years between us? The use of these rhetoric strategies are just a few the devices that makes Walt Whitman’s â€Å"Crossing the Brooklyn Ferry† a timeless masterpiece.

Business Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Business Case Study - Essay Example The emphasis is on communication, training and the overall culture or value system in the organization (Hiatt and Creasey 10). In relation to the provided scenario in the case, it is observed that Engenco’s operations comprise most kinds of energy generation and supply, with making investment in order to develop new technologies, including piloting household wind turbines along with supporting the creation of domestic fuel cells. Engenco employs around 25,000 personnel solely within the UK as well as another 5,000 primarily in North America. The average age of employees is between 25 and 35 years. Moreover, a substantial portion of employees i.e. 30% are women. The various activities of the company are performed across national boundaries, which bring in the aspect of cross-cultural management. The European Commission’s proposed energy strategy will address these different attitudes by breaking up companies that produce and supply energy into separate ownership. The com pany also developed a reputation for its scheme to employ women into engineering and initiatives to facilitate individuals with disabilities. Apprenticeship schemes had been prepared in both the UK and Canada, where there was a shortage in terms of skilled trade. These activities also substantiated the organization’s focus to possess ethical culture and to act in a proper way. The company also invested in training of 1000 newly recruited engineers along with providing their other 7500 engineers with advanced training. This training was kept almost in similar pattern for customer service and engineering support staff and 2,500 had been recently trained in new systems. Management development programs cover each stage of a manager’s career, ranging from the talent development to delivering the business strategies which further include change, people, business and personal skills. Typical development activities included work shadowing, coaching, and mentoring, projects and secondments comprising international m opportunities. The senior leadership program had been developed in conjunction with a major business school for high potential senior managers. The company also offered flexible benefits and savings to buy shares with a bonus scheme to encourage higher performance of the employees. For senior management, rewards included performance related pay, opportunities for international experience, contracts altered as per the individual needs and flexibility to fit with lifestyle. Flexible working is also supported to enable other employees to balance work and caring commitments with the added benefit of saving on office space. After obtaining an understanding of the scenario prevailing within the organization, it can be stated that the changes made the employees dissatisfied as they were working in that particular environment in a flexible manner when suddenly the company decided to move their most of the operational activities to foreign destinations such as India. The employees became dissatisfied with such decisions which lowered the employee engagement and they thought of not recommending the company to their friends. It significantly affected employee morale as they were not satisfied with the changes. The employees wanted to stay in their flexible environment and work

Developing Ethics at Workplace Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Developing Ethics at Workplace - Research Paper Example If the employees have the opposite attributes like laziness and show lack of values, the company will not prosper, and the employees should not be there very long† (Eileen, 2008). The Need and Importance of Ethics In order to establish in a competitive environment, the managers must possess ethical values, and use item in the organization. Existence of Business: Business ethics is compulsory for the existence of any business. If the business does not follow any ethical values, the business flops in the market and will creates a bad public image among the customers. Eventually, this will lead to the collapse of the business. Therefore, for a business to succeed and survive in the market, it needs to develop ethical principles. Protecting Rights of Consumers: Business ethics should be developed to look after the rights of the consumers, which includes the right to be informed about the products availability, features, safety, right to be heard, etc. Protecting Employees and Share holders: The employees and the share holders play an important role in the proper functioning of the business. Therefore, ethical values protect them from unethical activities. Increasing Number of Consumers: When the business follows good ethical principles, there will be increase in the number of customers. Customers prefer honest and reasonable dealings. They have the right to file a case against businessmen who indulge in unfair practices. Satisfaction for Customers: Customers are the ones who lead the business. The main objective of any business is to satisfy its customers. Consumers will be happy, only if the company employs business ethics in their dealings. Benefits to Employees: Business ethics provide the employees reasonable wages and compensation benefits. It includes, giving them better working conditions. Maintenance of good relationships between employer and employees. The employee’s proper facilities or amenities. The employees should also have the right to ar gue for their benefits to the management. Benefits to the Society: By reducing unfair trade practices, there will regular supply of better quality products and services to the customers. This results in establishing good relationship with the society. Efficient Performance: If the business practices all the ingredience of business ethics, the employees of the organization contribute and cooperate with the managers. This will lead to increased sales, higher profits, and expansion of the business. Healthy Competition: Business organizations must make use of ethical principles while dealing with the competitors. They must have strong values while opposing the competitors. There must be equal chance for small-scale businesses to survive in the market. â€Å"Buyers Market: In recent times, structural changes have taken place in the concept of business. In the case of many products, sellers market has been converted into buyers market. Under such changed business conditions, business eth ics is needed to stress the importance of consumer satisfaction and service orientation, in place of profit orientation† (Haider, 2010). Reduces Business Misconduct: There are chances of malpractices in some business such as high pricing, black marketing, adulteration, and selling of false products to the customers. This reduces the image and sale of the products. Developing ethical principles

Maritime Security Studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 1

Maritime Security Studies - Essay Example This paper shall be discussed based on expert opinions by theorists and practitioners in the international and political arena. This study is being carried out with the hope of establishing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, as it applies in the contemporary context. This study sets forth that marine terrorism in its most general context is not on the decline. However, the international community has consistently established better ways of dealing with marine terrorism. For which reason, marine terrorists have not been getting away with their activities as they have in the past. This has not stopped them however in perpetuating their terrorist activities. The Working Group of the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific has set forth the most complete definition for marine terrorism. They set forth that marine terrorism is â€Å"the undertaking of terrorist acts and activities within the maritime environment, using or against vessels or fixed platforms at sea or port, or against any of their passengers or personnel, against coastal facilities or settlements, including tourist resorts, port areas and port towns or cities† (as cited by Marine Terrorism Research Center, 2011). In addition, it is also defined as the â€Å"use of threat or violence against a ship, its passengers or sailors, a port facility, or if the purpose of solely a platform for political ends† (Marine Terrorism Research Center, 2011). It is an act which is based on political ideals and goals. Various acts of maritime terrorism have been seen in different parts of the globe. Off the coast of Somalia, acts of piracy have increased the cost of transporting goods in the Gulf of Aden (Shortland and Vothknecht, 2011). A greater issue in the Gulf of Aden however is that of international security and regional stability as Somali piracy might be used to transport weapons or

School Fundings Tragic Flaws Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

School Fundings Tragic Flaws - Assignment Example The main message that the authors aim to reveal is the clear and distinct unequal allocation of funds for schools that are currently skewed towards higher income students rather than the neediest. The effect of the policies emerging from the three levels of government agencies is that educational funds that are supposed to be allocated equally tend to be distributed more to higher income pupils, highlighting disadvantaged educational benefits that are supposed to be equally received by students regardless of income level.The significance of the argument is seen in terms of the policies’ effect on teachers preferences for place of work High-poverty schools typically have less experienced teachers and high turnover rates, so the average teacher salary is much lower in those schools† (Casey and Rosa, 2008, 1). As shown, higher-poverty schools do not attract highly experienced teachers due to poor working conditions and the lower salary rates that come from the disparate all ocation of educational funding. In this regard, the pupils from high-poverty schools are exposed to teachers with lesser experiences and training and thereby, could compromise the level of instructions accorded to these students, when compared to lower-poverty schools that receive greater funding.One personally agrees with the author’s contention that there is a need to reevaluate and assess the disparities in educational funding accorded to school on a national level to justify allocation on an equal basis.

Advise the Prime Minister and Home Secretary of any problems they are Essay

Advise the Prime Minister and Home Secretary of any problems they are likely to encounter with the Order in Council and its provisionsin Parliament - Essay Example This measure because necessary because the PM and Home Secretary deem the acts of Parliament as being insufficient in dealing with terrorism in the UK. Due to that, they seek to get the Privy Council to issue an Order in Council that states that: 1.Human Rights Act 1998 is not applicable to the exercise of the Order 2.The formulation of a special tribunal by the Order in Council for the trying of suspected terrorism and terrorist sympathisers 3.The tribunal could detain suspects for 90 days. The period is renewable. 4.The nomination of a state advocate to represent the suspect. They cannot choose their own representatives. 5.The state advocate of a suspect could not meet with suspects. 6.The tribunal would hear the case in the absence of the suspect and the state advocate would be appointed to represent the interest of the suspect. 7.Guilty persons will be detained indefinitely and not allowed to meet their visitors. 8.Suspects would be subjected to â€Å"harsh but realistic† regime of incarceration [possibly, torture] 9.There would be no right for appeal for the suspects when they are convicted. 10.There would be no press reports of any type related to the suspects and their hearings. The paper provides an advice for the Prime Minister and Home Secretary on the problems they are likely to encounter with the Order in Council and its provisions. This would be done in relation to Parliament and to the Courts. The courts in the UK are required to operate within the fundamental and primary framework of laws in the UK that are a valid part of the laws of the land. This include the traditional sources of UK law and other sources of the law in the country.

Assess security risks to Georgia (Republic of) Essay

Assess security risks to Georgia (Republic of) - Essay Example Georgia was not important to them because it does not serve their national interests. International groups like the League of Nations and Second Socialist International, that are supportive of Georgia’s goal to create a social democracy and are responsible for promoting and preserving peace all over the world, were not strong enough to stop the plans of the Soviet Union to break the independence of Georgia through force (He & Feng, 2012). This essay analyses security risks of Georgia. The politics in Caucasus was not good and harmful to Georgia. The military of Georgia, who were not united, not trained, and have very few resources, were always involved in battles, like border fights and civil wars. These battles showed the problems of Georgia’s national security. And these national security problems were worsened by lack of economic help from other countries, lack of revenues, unskilled public servants, bad communication and transportation, and very hard economic problems (MacFarlane, 2012). Georgia is still in a very difficult situation in terms of security because it has to give information or warnings about security risks without stopping or badly affecting the economy. Creating a strong economy and democracy in a weak or risky country is a main problem for Georgia. While Georgia tries to build democracy, the risk of regional conflict or problem affects all over Georgia and could be made happen by some happenings. This could be one more Russian military attack because of preventing a possible Georgian attack on the occupied South Ossetia and Abkhazia, helping Russian minority groups, giving supplies to Russian military headquarters in Armenia, or fighting terrorism (CSIS, 2006). Russia is being ready to get involved its military in the South Caucasus if fighting occurred in facilities with nuclear weapons from Iran. The reason

Strategic Management of Human Resources Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Strategic Management of Human Resources - Essay Example ining these ingredients provide the motivation, incentives and sense of purpose, which account for success and also help to explain why some of the familiar mechanistic planning and control techniques work so well in some contexts and not in others (Ahuja, 2005, p.830). The understanding of culture provides better alternatives for decision making by the managers. However, it puts restrictions on the alternatives to the managers, that is, the managers should conform to requirements of cultural patterns of people in the organization. This is so because of two reasons: First, no organization can be isolated from cultural environment, that is, organization as a social unit must operate within the framework of the larger cultural system. As such, a congruency has to be maintained with the values of total culture. Second, organization may be considered as a subculture within the framework of total broader culture. No doubt, every organization develops its own norms and cultural pattern of behavior; these elements are developed within the context of the larger cultural pattern. No part of the system should go against it if both have to succeed. From this point of view, the culture affects the functioning of an organization. Culture places imperative demands on organizations. Culture includes both abstract and material elements. Abstract elements include values, attitudes, ideas, personality types, and summary constructs such as religion, etc. Material elements include all the physical and observable things that man has created and which in turn have an effect on pattern of life and behavior. These elements may be such diverse items as products, buildings, machinery, etc. Though there maybe relationship between abstract and material cultures, both affecting each other, it is much more difficult to change attitudes and value systems than to institute technological innovations. The discrepancy between material inventions and the beliefs and patterning of human behavior

Innovation in Hospitality Essay Example for Free

Innovation in Hospitality Essay Innovation is seen as difficult in many countries around the world, innovation strategies are not inclusive to all countries but vary in each country. To minimise the situation within these countries many firms in particular small business see innovation as a high financial commitment that may also be very risky to the business operations. The reason for this tendency is due to the limited hospitality innovation studies needed as a foundation to support managements perception of the theory. The availability of studies has the ability to encourage innovation that may not be detrimental to finances depending on the level of innovation selected. However innovation brings many other barriers and challenges that hinder the successful implementation of innovation: unqualified employees, knowledge, lack of understanding of the relationship between product and the market, high staff culture turnover, strategy-related factors etc. On the other hand hospitality firms used the following three approaches to innovation to successfully undertake innovation: innovation process strategy, continuous improvement theory and strategy as practice perspective. These innovation approaches are used a survival tool to combat against competition and it brings about benefits to the business: improved quality and brand image, knowledge sharing, customer satisfaction, increase in profits. Is innovation difficult within the hospitality industry.? First of all it may be useful to know what is the definition of innovation. Most definitions of innovation vary across the industry. Bessant and Francis (1999) defined innovation as an organisations wide process of sustained and focused incremental innovation where as Cooper (2002) defined innovation as the innovation process strategy for driving new food concepts from the initial stage right through to the final stage.

The Reflection Of Reading And Writing Experiences English Literature Essay

The Reflection Of Reading And Writing Experiences English Literature Essay On the first day of my Freshman high school English, I entered the classroom with an extremely self-assured, even intermediate, sort of feeling. I signed in late and tiptoed to the last seat in the classroom, comfortably supporting my feet on the seat in front of me. Every year, English has been my worst subject and I failed at it. I had to work hard for every grade I earned in that class and thus far proved to be a real challenge in my mind. Every time I complete an assignment, I procrastinated and eventually end up writing ten page essays the night before or the day of and still would average an A- on all of them. This was definitely the worst thing I could do to improve my Reading and Writing, since I felt no confidence or remorse towards my actions. I would stay up late or wake up 2 hours in the morning, just to finish a paper that I loathed writing. This bad nature of staying up to finish a paper led me to believe that I was untouchable, when it came to writing that is. This asp ersion led me to ask the question, what is there that I dont already know? I thought I was an english god. Too bad I was in for a major eye-opener. One big problems that I found constant throughout all my writing pieces and projects was the difficulty answering the why is it important? question. When I wrote something, I knew exactly what my thoughts and ideas meant, but the problem was, I assumed that my audience did too. I also never clarified the common knowledge that I would find by researching. I would increasingly display vague information and would assume that my audience felt the same kind of sympathy towards say, my memoir, as I did. This problem still progresses in all of writings to this day, but its not in the worst phase it could possibly be in. As I had started my freshmen year in high school, my writing was unreadable because it had no intentions, no moral. I would finish the paper just to get the A I need, and nothing more. But all that has changed as I progressed through my junior and senior years. Besides my slight writing deformities, I have accomplished many pieces that has made me content of my writing. Such as my excellent introductions, that not only catch the readers attention, but also to get them hooked into reading my entire pieces. In all my pieces, the introduction, for me, is the most important part, so I make it very descriptive and inspiring. They force the audience into a phase of wonder, and make them research about a certain topic even after theyve reviewed my paper. I love to put big words and complex looking sentences, just to make my audience happy, excited, and even in disbelief right from the start. If it wasnt for the constant peer reviews and teacher conferences during my junior and senior year, I would have had never been made aware of my strengths and weaknesses. At first, I hated peer reviews. I felt like it was a waste of my time and effort. But soon after I got the gist of the whole thing, my essays always came back with a Good job! or a smiley face, demonstrating my writing accomplishments. Peer reviews helped me see what I can improve on and where exactly I make my paper sound awkward or just plain weird. After all the experience, I like to say, peer reviews, thanks for everything. When it comes to Reading, my journey just takes a new route every single year. Even when I entered high school, I wasnt much of a readerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦nope, not even one book that I would actually want to read during my pastime. I felt so jaded from any kinds of reading materials, whether it was a book, a magazines, or even the Sunday comics. I felt very detached because most of my years I spent watching TV was when I shouldve picked up a book and plowed through it, if not even the first page. Even summer reading! I was never motivated to read those lame pieces of writing because they were a waste of my time (as I thought). Peer pressure on books, like Harry Potter, never seemed to induce me into reading either. At this point I had no idea what my future would be like without reading. But just as I had lost hope, just as I was about to stop, I gained moral reason through a system I like to called read and reward. For every book I read, I was awarded with a little extra credit or a pi ece of a snicker bar (sophomore year). I felt as if I was in a contest, and the rewards were sweet! As a result, I started reading more and more books, especially during my junior year. Such as, Of mice and men, The Great Gatsby, and little excerpts from Moby Dick. I may not have loved all of them, but at least I felt like I earned the grade I received through hard work (through actual reading). From that point on, I started to read and most importantly, began to feel more confident. With every page I read, I would clinch my dictionary in one hand and would sit there, reading and searching for an elongated word that I could add to knowledge. That for me was like playing a video game; turn the page (press the buttons) and search (look for a win). Now I felt like I was spending my time in the best way possible. Not just improving my reading skills, but also fitting into the society today. As I progress throughout my senior year in high school, I will always remember the strategies I have learned and taken from previous years. Reading and Writing may not be my best subjects, but so far they have been my best improvements. Im proud to say that now I have truly accelerated in my Reading and Writing career and will further due so.

Concert Critique of Mozart and The Height of Classicism Essay -- Analy

Concert Critique of Mozart and The Height of Classicism   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On Sunday, December 07, 2003, I attended the Mozart and The Height of Classicism concert that was held in the Lincoln Theater of the New World Symphony orchestral academy. Conducted by Nicholas McGegan featuring pianist Robert Levin. There were two pieces of music during this concert, one of the movements was performed by the pianist alone as a solo, Mr. Robert Levin. The program’s title was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Chaconne from Idomeneo. The first piece was Concerto No. 24 in C minor for Piano and Orchestra, K. 491, Allegro, Larghetto, and Allegretto. The second piece was Symphony No. 36 in C major, K.425, â€Å"Linz†, Adagio-Allegro spiritoso, Andante, Menuetto-Trio, and Presto. This concert was unique in that the focus seemed to be as much on the instruments as in the music itself. As the pianist and conductor expressed the form of improvisation as Mozart did, which I will explain further on my critique.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The concert began promptly at 3pm, when the conductor Nicholas McGegan entered the stage with the full theater clapping, along all the members of the orchestra. All the men and women in the orchestra including the conductor were wearing all black suits. Prior to his entrance I noticed that the orchestra began to play, it was obvious that the concert had not begun, so I realized that they were just toning their instruments. This also, happened when we returned from intermission. Being my first time to an orchestra I first thought that they were playing around with the instruments. The Allegro part was very good. I found my self enjoying the most the beginnings and endings of the movements. It also sounded very happy, and bright. This one and Larghetto I enjoyed fully since it was the beginning of the concert. This was my first time attending an orchestral concert. I noticed how beautiful the music sounded and I began to appreciate it a lot more. I can admit that how great and enjoyable was, that I was in a bit of a shock. This was nothing compared to listening to a compact disc. I can say that my favorite instrument was the violin. The play it was played, and how beautifully it sounded, it was like nothing I’ve hear before. In this orchestra I noticed that most violinist were mostly women. I think that this was because women have more sensitivity, which seemed necessary to play the i... ...rs where the violins, viola, cello, flutes, bassoon, French horns and timpani played a bigger role. I’m not saying that this piano concerto was horrible but I just didn’t enjoy as much the piano’s performance in those two movements. It might have been the pianist interpretation, and exercise of improvisation. These two movements were the last performance of the pianist and once the second movement ended the piano was removed from the orchestra. Mr. Robert Levin received his applause once he finished and when he walked back from the curtains. Over all I did love the concert because it was the same style of classicism. The last two movements Menuetto-Trio and Presto were conducted by Nicholas McGegan. My favorite was definitely the last one, because it was so exciting, energetic and fast paced. The timpani as well as all the other instruments sounded great. The timpani in this movement played louder and more frequently that all the other movements, including th e previous piece. There was only one percussionist and he played two timpani. So finally, I’ll end by saying again that the concert was great, and very well performed. I look forward to attending the New World Symphony again.

How Has Religion Affected History And Literature? :: essays research papers

â€Å"And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.† With these words, penned by the eminent political scientist Thomas Jefferson, the struggling colonies known as the United States proclaimed their independence from Great Britain and began an adventure that would develop this small nation into a world superpower. With this â€Å"firm reliance†, her people embraced the unknown future and set out to advance their country politically, economically, and socially. Now, over two centuries later, many would argue that this â€Å"Divine Providence† has been almost completely eradicated from society. Yet, despite these many claims, the fact remains that religion has played a vital role in American public life and, despite the â€Å"demoralization† of the United States that so many individuals cry out against, religion continues to be a basic cornerstone of American societal life. Over and over again, both the history and the literature of the United States of America have taught her people and the world that religion has and always will have an incalculable effect upon the society of the United States. Historically, many see the United States as a â€Å"Christian nation† founded on Christian principles by Christian men with Christian motives. Therefore, they will argue that this heritage should be continued in the U.S. today by allowing prayer in public schools, outlawing abortion, or giving religious organizations special privileges. However, a closer examination of American history reveals that although the United States was founded with many religious guidelines, America is not a specifically Christian nation. This having been said, it is important to recognize how religion has historically affected American society. A chief example of religion’s impact is found in the landmark Supreme Court ruling of 1962 in the case of Engel vs. Vitale in which organized prayer in the public school system was declared unconstitutional. Steven Engel, a Jewish man in New York, had visited his son’s classroom in the fall of 1958 and was offended when he observed the entire cl ass, including his son, with their hands clasped together and their heads bowed. Along with four other parents, Engel challenged the school board and its president, William Vitale, and, on June 25, 1962, the Supreme Court ruled 6-1 that organized prayer in public schools, regardless of whether they are a requirement or not, were unconstitutional and therefore must cease immediately.

Essay --

Ashley Lotoszynski Darren Pagtakhan Social Justice December 17, 2013 Imaginary Fear Teddy Roosevelt once said that, â€Å"the only thing we have to fear is fear itself†. Fear is a product of the absence of knowledge and thoughts that are blown out of proportion. As humans we are scared of the unknown and what it conceals from us. In the novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding, a group of children crash land on an unknown island without adults. As time passes, the kids become uneasy and try to seek comfort in their leaders. When their imagination takes over, the unknown soon ignites their fear and apprehension hinders the juveniles as they attempt to restore order. Since fear is fueled by imagination, the boys’ outward attempt to conquer it only results in violence and chaos. Because we are scared of what we do not know, we believe that the unknown can hurt us. In the beginning, the littluns become scared and speak of a â€Å"beastie†. Piggy asks one of the littluns what he saw and reports that, â€Å"he [the littlun] says he saw the beastie, the snake thing...he says in the morning it turned into them things like ropes in the trees and hung in the branches†(Golding 36). The â€Å"snake thing† is a figment of the littluns’ imagination, causing the children to be more scared which in turn leads them to conjure up more imaginary objects that they believe will hurt them. It is also evident that the boys are scared when Ralph says to Jack that, â€Å"they’re frightened...they dream. You can hear ‘em...They talk and scream...As if it wasn’t a good island† (Golding 52). The boys have nothing to fear on the island however they want to return home where there is danger and war. It is ironic that the boys wan t to leave the island and return home where there ... ...(Golding 181). Jack is a character that instills the fear in the other boys to manipulate them into getting what he wants. By putting the fear into the other boys, they follow him and carry out his evil work leading to violence and chaos. This not only shows that Jack is manipulative, but that he also has a fear of not being a leader and in control. Imagination is the root of fear and leads to destruction and death in the novel. It can make people do irrational things and triggers responses in our security center. In the Lord of the Flies, fear is more dangerous than any beast because the boys are afraid of themselves. Everything that the boys are scared of have an unknown aspect to them. Instead of conquering fear, imagination provokes violence and chaos. The only thing we really have to fear, is fear itself due to its mentally and physically destructive nature.

Characteristics of a Good Proposal Essay

The need for the proposed activity is clearly established, preferably with data. The most important ideas are highlighted and repeated in several places. The objectives of the project are given in detail. There is a detailed schedule of activities for the project, or at least sample portions of such a complete project schedule. Collaboration with all interested groups in planning of the proposed project is evident in the proposal. The commitment of all involved parties is evident, e. g. letters of commitment in the appendix and cost sharing stated in both the narrative of the proposal and the budget. The budget and the proposal narrative are consistent. The uses of money are clearly indicated in the proposal narrative as well as in the budget. All of the major matters indicated in the proposal guidelines are clearly addressed in the proposal. The agreement of all project staff and consultants to participate in the project was acquired and is so indicated in the proposal. All governmental procedures have been followed with regard to matters such as civil rights compliance and protection of human subjects. Appropriate detail is provided in all portions of the proposal. All of the directions given in the proposal guidelines have been followed carefully. Appendices have been used appropriately for detailed and lengthy materials which the reviewers may not want to read but are useful as evidence of careful planning, previous experience, etc. The length is consistent with the proposal guidelines and/or funding agency expectations. The budget explanations provide an adequate basis for the figures used in building the budget. If appropriate, there is a clear statement of commitment to continue the project after external funding ends. The qualifications of project personnel are clearly communicated. The writing style is clear and concise. It speaks to the reader, helping the reader understand the problems and proposal. Summarizing statements and headings are used to lead the reader.

Globalisation Is a Euphamism for Neo-Colonialism

Globalisation is a euphemism for neo-colonialism. Discuss. Globalisation is a complex and multifaceted issue (Bayliss 2008:252). However, this essay will on the imbalance between western powers and the developing world and consequential exploitation, which, rather than being condemned as neo-colonialism, is justified as globalisation. The end of colonial rule did not mark the end of the trend of economic control and exploitation of the developing world (Manzo 2009:267).The cultural, political and economic effects of globalisation upon the developing world resemble that of neo-colonial power – an inequality that is defended by the benevolence of neo-liberalism and egalitarianism of the free market. This essay will focus on the cultural and political international dominance of the west and economic partiality of globalised institutions, referring to IR theories of globalisation defending it as beneficial (Bayliss 2008:248, Pasha 2009:330) and condemning it as capitalist imperial ism.Colonialism describes a period of expansion and exploitation by European powers spanning the 15th to 20th Century, the ‘political control, physical occupation, and domination of people†¦ and their land’ (Crawford 2002:131). Between 1946 and 1976 European powers granted independence to all their colonies. However, Horvath writing in 1972 argues that neo-colonialism swiftly followed its predecessor (Horvath 1972:46).Neo-colonialism implies that whilst post-colonial states attained nominal sovereignty within the international system, they remain dependent upon western powers and are subsequently politically controlled, culturally conditioned and economically exploited (Nkrumah 1968:x-xii). States with the ‘†¦outward trappings of international sovereignty’ but in reality have their ‘economic system and thus its political policy†¦ directed from outside. ’ (Nkrumah 1968:xi)Globalization can be defined as the expansion of ‘wor ldwide interconnectedness’; where states integrate and supranational institutions are formed. Whilst stronger states control their involvement, weaker states are forced to integrate, being influenced rather than influencing (Bayliss 2008:255). Neo-liberalism argues integration is beneficial (Bayliss 2008:249, Sorenson 1997:10) globalization will ‘restructure the world economy without the need for interventionist policies’ creating equality within a competitive free market (Hirst 1999:134).World-system theory however, describes monopoly capitalism where rich ‘core’ states exploit ‘peripheral’ poorer states, essentially an international class system (Bayliss 2008:147, Wallerstein: 1989). Realist thought, would argue that powerful states merely use the globalised system for their own benefit (Waltz 1979). Globalization could therefore be seen as an ‘instrument for imperialism’ favoring strong capitalist states (Bayliss 2008:153 ) essentially a euphemism for neo-colonialism. Democracy is promoted through globalization based upon neoliberal ideals of humanities right to ‘libertarian happiness’ (Morgenthau 1960:100).The political weight of Western thought, and the professed moral legitimacy of its international promotion highlights a neo-colonial dominance (Nkrumah 1968:ix), The Western world believes international co-operation can only safely occur between liberal democratic states (Owen 1994:96). ‘Separate peace’ (Doyle 1986:1151), co-operation solely between liberal democracies, can be seen through EU accession criteria (Europa 2010:Copenhagen Criteria) and ENP policy (DeBardeleben 2008:21) and IMF and World Bank loan policy (Cogan 2009:211). Imposing Western political principles using economic incentive.Here, humanitarian aid is a gift of neo-colonialism; foreign capital used for the exploitation rather than the development of the third world (Nkrumah 1968:x) For Western powers f orce is often a necessary option against illiberal states (Hoffman 1995:31) Owen 1994:97). US involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq has been motivated by the desire to spread democracy and ensure security (Owen 1994:125-127). This power politics contradicts equality of neo-liberal co-operation in globalization suggesting political homogeneity imposed by an imperialist force.Realists argue that states espouse humanitarian motives as a pretext to cover the pursuit of national self-interest (Franck and Rodley 1973). Nato selectivity of response in Kosovo (1999) failing to act in Sudan (Bayliss 2008:527) and the illegitimate intervention of France in Rwanda (1994) expose a flawed international justice, where Western powers act without restraint. In 2005 the UN adopted the ‘responsibility to protect’, giving itself legitimate right act upon human rights breaches. This is one of many examples of nternational institutions imposing Western political and moral ethics justified by an international responsibility (Morgan 1972:33-34); a practice widely accepted in Western public opinion (Reisman 1985:279-80). Globalization is essentially creating an international super power that transcends state borders possessing hegemony on moral and political principles with a self-legitimised right to enforce them. Defenders of globalization suggest the international community is one of shared and defended values.However, these values are presented by the West, who misuse this influence to intervene without justification. Globalization has allowed for an increased flow of culture and traditions internationally. However, this flow has not been evenhanded, media dominance of Western powers dwarfing smaller states. The advanced nature of US media and sheer weight of capital has created ‘Media Imperialism’ (Sklair 2002:167) where the developed world is flooded by broadcasting promoting Western products, creating an externally dictated popular culture.The consequen ce is a developed world dominated by Western products e. g. Coco cola; the best selling drink in the world (Coca Cola 2010). Under the theory of neo-colonialism, neo-colonial states are obliged to purchase manufactured products from imperial powers to the deficit of local products (Nkrumah 1968:ix). The culture and products of powerful societies are not imposed upon weak societies by force or occupation (Crawford 2002:131, Sklair 2002:168) but underhandedly via an internationally dominant media ‘limited to Anglo-American interests’ (Lee 1980:82).Whilst globalization arguably encourages multiculturalism (Bayliss 2008:423), a disparate International system has created a dominant culture within the global community (Kymlicka 1991:182) that exploits its status to the demise of the developing world (Golding and Harris 1997). Colonialism saw a moral arrogance with missionaries striving to create ‘a replica of ones own country upon the natives’ (Emerson 1969:13-14 ) a ‘noble purpose of saving the wretched. ‘ (Horvath 1972:46) Colonial powers occupied weaker states, imposing culture, religion and values based upon a superiority of power, policing and governing without legitimacy (Crawford 002:131-133). Similarly neo-colonialism operates in ‘political, religious, ideological and cultural spheres’ where the powerful ‘transform â€Å"the other† into oneself’ (Toje 2008:83) based on moral conceit. Globalisation has revealed conformity to Western democracy and culture, whether it has been received or enforced is the issue of debate. Globalisation as ‘interconnectedness’ (Bayliss 2008:252) economically the ‘integration of national economies into global markets’ (Todaro 2000:713) is driven by economic growth.The creation of the international free market intended to have a beneficial effect on developing countries (Hirst 1999:134) ‘shifting power away from developed countries to the rest of the world’ (Martin 1997:12). However, free market competition creates losers, often the most vulnerable ‘feminized’ states (Peterson 2009:287). Whilst globalisation did not create inequality, the solution for development was flawed, merely worsening the imbalance (Peterson 2009:287) – arguably, colonialism creating inequality, neo-colonialism maintaining it (Horvath 1972:46).Realists believe states only benefit at other states expense (Art, Waltz: 1988:67-68) suggesting neo-liberal ideas of development would harm the developed nations. Whilst international economic institutions such as the WTO, IMF and World Bank are intended to maintain free trade and assist developing countries, they have often been accused actually maintaining inequality (Peterson 2009:291) for the benefit of elites (Gray 1998, Greider 1997). A free market is intended to be free, impartial and competitive (Bayliss 2008:249). However, the rules of world trade are created, and therefore weighted in favor of rich countries.For example, trade-related aspects of international policy rights require international patent protection favour firms based in the Western World who hold 90% of patents forcing expensive products on the developed world who cannot produced their own low cost versions, the worst example being that of patented medicine (Watkins 2002:78). The double standards of the free market are also apparent in trade tariffs (Anderson 2006:147-159). Northern governments promote free trade and use the IMF and World Bank to impose import liberalization on poor states (Romano 2004:1012).Yet they refuse to open their own markets, south-north export trade tariffs cost developing countries $10 billion annually, twice the amount they receive from humanitarian aid (Watkins 2002:79). International economic institutions are essentially governed by Western powers – the World bank presidential post dominated by American citizens since its creation, not based on votes but informal agreements between the US and European stakeholders (Cogan 2009:209) Since the outset the US has shown dominance (Gowa 1983) creating the ‘Bretton Woods system’ in 1944 and causing its breakdown, in 1971 (Bayliss 2008:245).The competition of the free market, handicapped against the third world by dishonest steward of international economic institutions has allowed for economic hegemony – post-colonial states remaining dependant upon their ‘former masters’ (Young 2001:45). Marxist theories fit alarmingly with criticisms of globalization, World System Theory and Dependency Theory showing resources flowing from â€Å"periphery† of poor, underdeveloped states to a â€Å"core† of wealthy states (Bayliss 2008:147). Poor states are ‘impoverished and rich ones enriched’ by the way poor states are forced into the globalised world system (Blomstrom 1984:8-45).Lenin’s work Imperialism, The Highest st age of Capitalism shows a ‘capitalist monopoly’, essentially neo-colonial ‘periphery’ at the bottom of a tiered international system, a system Marxist’s would argue is essentially globalisation (Bayliss 2008:157). However, unlike colonialism globalization has arguably empowered ideas above states, giving the defenders of ‘neo-colonial’ states a louder voice. Social Constructivism argues that globalisation is far deeper than interaction between states (Snyder 2004:60).Whilst colonialism remained acceptable for centuries, the exploitation and imbalance of the current world system does not go unnoticed, numerous NGOs pressuring government institutions and operating independently as aid organizations. Globalisation has created an imbalanced world system retaining North-South divides that emerged during Colonialism (Horvath 1972:46). Whilst neo-liberal free markets aimed to resolve the inequalities, Realism argues flaws and bias within the cu rrent international system were retained and created as to ensure the Western powers remained economically powerful over the developing world (Emerson 1969:15).Emerson claims it would be a ‘turning point in history’ for global systems not to bring forth a ‘new imperialism and new colonialism’ (Emerson 1969:16). The cultural and moral dominance of Western powers and active promotion of values, for the ‘benefit’ of the developing world however, is a far more malevolent sign that globalization is a euphemism for neo-colonialism (Nkrumah 1968:xi). Bibliography Articles J. Cogan (2009) ‘Representation and Power in International Organization: The Operational Constitution and Its Critics’ The American Journal of International Law, Vol. 03, No. 2, pp. 209-263 R. Emerson (1969) ‘Colonialism’, Journal of Contemporary History, Vol. 4, No. 1, pp. 3-16 J. Horvath (1972) ‘A Definition of Colonialism’ Current Anthropolog y, Vol. 13, No. 1, pp. 45-57 J. M. Owen, (1994) ‘How Liberalism Produces Democratic Peace’, International Security, Vol. 19, No. 2 (Autumn, 1994). pp. 87-125. D. Roman, R. Sandbrook (2004) ‘Globalisation, extremism and violence in poor countries’ Third World Quarterly, Vol. 25, No. 6, pp. 1007-1030. K. Watkins (2002) ‘Is the WTO Legit? ’ Foreign Policy, No. 132, pp. 78-79 J.Snyder (2004) ‘One World, Rival Theories’ Foreign Policy, No. 145, pp. 62-62. Books J. Art and K. Waltz (ed. ) (1988) The use of force London: University press of America. N. Crawford (2002) Argument and Change in World Politics, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press J. DeBardeleben (2008) The boundaries of EU Enlargement, Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan P. Hirst, G. Thompson (1999) Globalization question, Cambridge: Polity Press S. Hoffman (1987) Janus and Minerva Essays in the Theory and Practice of International Politics, Boulder: Westview Press. W.Greider (1 997) One World Ready or Not: The Manic Logic of Global Capitalism, New York: Simon and Schuster J. Gray (1998) False Dawn: The Delusions of Global Capitalism. London: Granta Books J. Gowa (1983) Closing the Cold Window, New York: Cornell University Press W. Kymlicka (1991) Liberalism Community and Culture, Oxford: Clarendon Press K. Nkrumah (1965) Neo-colonialism : the last stage of imperialism, London: Nelson C. Lee (1980) Media Imperialism Reconsidered: The Homogenizing of Television Culture California: Sage L. Sklair (2002) Globalization, Capitalism and its alternatives, New York: Oxford University Press M.Todaro (2000) Economic Development, Harlow: Addison Wesley Longman A. Toje (2008) America, The EU and Strategic Culture London: Routledge R. Young (2001) ‘Post-colonialism: An Historical Introduction' Book Chapters K. Manzo (2009) ‘Do colonialism and slavery belong to the past’ (ed. ) J. Edkins, M. Zehfuss, Global Politics and new introduction, London: Routle dge, pp. 244-271. V. Peterson (2009) ‘How is the world organized economically? ’ (ed. ) J. Edkins, M. Zehfuss, Global Politics and new introduction, London: Routledge, pp. 271-294. M. Pasha (2009) ‘How can we end poverty’ (ed. J. Edkins, M. Zehfuss, Global Politics and new introduction, London: Routledge, pp. 320-344 K. Anderson (2006) ‘Subsidies and Trade Barriers’ (ed. ) Bjorn Lomborg How to Spend $50 to Make the World a Better Place, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 147-159. A. Bellamy, N. Wheeler (2008) ‘Humanitarian Intervention in World Politics’ (ed. ) John Baylis, Steve Smith, Patricia Owens The Globalization of world politics New York: Oxford university press. pp. 522-538. S. Hobden, R. Wyn Jones (2008) ‘Marxist theories of International Relations’ (ed. John Baylis, Steve Smith, Patricia Owens The Globalization of world politics New York: Oxford university press. pp. 142-157. N. Woods (2008) ‘I nternational political economy in an age of globalization’ (ed. ) John Baylis, Steve Smith, Patricia Owens The Globalization of world politics New York: Oxford university press. pp. 244-258 Websites Coco-Cola Company, http://www. coca-cola. com/index. jsp Europa, Copenhagen Criteria, http://europa. eu/scadplus/glossary/accession_criteria_copenhague_en. htm Europa, ENP policy, http://ec. europa. eu/world/enp/policy_en. htm

The Alhambra

After a long time of going back in time to experience first hand the stories behind the world's greatest paintings, I decided to take a break in studying visual art and widen my perspectives a bit. I stayed up all night on which adventure to take next, and the all-night contemplation led me to a decision to take another adventure—to take on Architectural artworks. First stop, the world-famous Alhambra in Granada, Spain. I went back 12 centuries in time, all the way to the ninth century—the reign of the Islamic invasion of Spain.The Zirites, who are the first kings of Granada, had the Alhambra constructed for military reasons. They built their castles on the hill across the Alhambra, making the structure a fortress for forthcoming attacks from anticipated conquerors. Tension was in the air at all times during this point, but it didn't stop me from appreciating the beauty of the structure that is Alhambra. Though still not fully developed, its obvious Arabesque style†”a type of Islamic art with repetitive complex, geometric patterns of interlacing plant, animal, and abstract forms—makes it a sight to behold.I have already read in art and history books that the Alhambra as a fortress would go on until the 13th century, so I decided to skip the boring part and take myself to 1238. It was at this point when the Alhambra was used as a residence of the kings. During this time, it was the Nasrites who ruled the Islamic kingdom in Spain. The Alhambra was later on developed to include a â€Å"alcazaba† (fortress), an â€Å"alcazar† (palace) and a small â€Å"medina† (city), still with Islamic art ruling the entirety of the structures.The old fortress was later on restored; the artworks developed to reach the full potential of its beauty. This, in turn, signified the Golden Age of Islam in Spain. Perhaps it was the overwhelming awe over the legendary architecture of the Alhambra and the chills it gave me just by looking at s ome parts of its structural design which transported me to yet another century. Next thing I know, it was 1492, and Granada was no longer occupied by the Islams.Catholicism was brought back to Spain, and the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabel conquered the city, making the Alhambra a Christian court. Military garrisons and churches were built inside the compound, incorporating Catholicism into the Islamic architecture. For centuries the Alhambra turned into a Catholic city built on Islamic roots, but as years passed, the legendary architectural wonder was left neglected. I was then transported to the 19th century, and it shocked me to find the Alhambra unoccupied, except by thieves, beggars, and homeless people.It struck me so hard that in no time I got back to present time. Now, as I am writing this, the Alhambra is already a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a strong contender for the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Alhambra being recognized as one of the most important stru ctures and architectural artworks in the entire world makes me so proud that I was part of history when it all happened; though I was nothing but a spectator, I got to experience the rich culture in which the Alhambra was rooted, and the colorful history it had withstood.References Crayon, G. (1832). The Alhambra. London: Samuel Bentley. Lipscomb, K. (2005). Hunter Travel Guides: Spain. New Jersey: Hunter Publishing, Inc. Irwin, Robert. (2004). The Alhambra. London: Butler & Tanner Ltd. Feminism. (n. d. ). In Encyclop? dia Britannica online. Retrieved from http://www. britannica. com/EBchecked/topic/724633/feminism Granada, The Alhambra. (n. d. ). In Andalucia Website. Retrieved from http://www. andalucia. com/cities/granada/alhamhistory. htm Arabesque: Art Movement. (n. d. ). In Art Education. Retrieved from

Buddhism Essay Essay

One of the Buddha’s most significant teachings is that everyone is different, and hence each individual’s path to enlightenment is unique. For this reason, Buddhists acknowledge that they must take inspiration from a variety of sources to complete their individual journey to Nirvana. Belief in the concept of enlightenment is therefore important within Buddhism with different branches and schools giving varying emphasis to the many teachings of Buddha and his close followers, while some believe in Bodhisattvas, from whom they take motivation, all believe in shaping their individual effort to achieve enlightenment. Throughout this essay, the Buddha’s teachings on belief and enlightenment, how the four Noble Truths and Buddhist practices relate to belief and enlightenment, and the positions of the two major branches of Buddhism – Theravada and Mahayana – will all be analysed to determine the role of belief in Buddhism, and hence prove or disprove the a bove comments on enlightenment and belief for Buddhists. Enlightenment or _Nirvana_ is a supreme state; free from suffering, individual existence and all worldly concerns; such as greed, hate and ignorance. It is the ultimate goal of all Buddhists, breaking the otherwise endless cycle of death and rebirth known as samsara. Theravada Buddhism (â€Å"Doctrine of the Elders†) teaches that by refraining from all kinds of evil, purifying the mind and having a deep thirst for knowledge, â€Å"†¦ a Theravada Buddhist can reach the state of perfection and enter Nirvana.† (Oracle ThinkQuest, 2012) This knowledge comes almost entirely from the Tipitaka, meaning â€Å"three baskets†. This collection of scriptures contains slightly different versions between the two schools, but is considered to comprise of the most accurate accounts of the Buddha and his close disciples. It is important to note that Theravada Buddhists believe that due to the requirements for enlightenment, monks and nuns are significantly more likely to achieve Nirvana than lay people who should therefore focus on gaining good karma enabling them to be a monk or nun in their next rebirth. Mahayana Buddhism has a variety of scriptures, many of which have been written by high ranking monks since the time of the Buddha, in order to keep the teachings up to date with the culture of the period. Notably, they also  believe that all people have the capability to become enlightened. Apart from the different scripture emphasis, Mahayana Buddism is significantly diverse to Theravada due to the belief in multiple Buddhas and Boddhisattvas. Boddhisattvas are people of deep compassion who are said to delay entering Nirvana in order to help guide others to enlightenment. As such, Mahayana Buddhism adds to the Theravadan definition of Nirvana being the absence of self-centeredness (and therefore the absence of suffering) and the state of spiritual perfection, displayed by total compassion and concern for others. Two well-known Buddhist quotes which summarise the Buddha’s position on beliefs and enlightenment are: â€Å"Don’t blindly believe what I say. Don’t believe me because others convince you of my words. Don’t believe anything you see, read, or hear from others, whether of authority, religious teachers or texts. Don’t rely on logic alone, nor speculation. Don’t infer or be deceived by appearances.† â€Å"Find out for yourself what is truth, what is real. Discover that there are virtuous things and there are non-virtuous things. Once you have discovered for yourself give up the bad and embrace the good.† The above quotes help explain why Buddhists dislike teachings being referred to as beliefs. The first quote highlights the need for scepticism when reading the teachings. The second quote goes further by explaining the individuality of Nirvana, and the idea that not all teachings apply to everyone. Because followers of Buddhism are encouraged to challenge ideas presented and ascertain their own understanding of the major teachings, it is offensive to refer to this knowledge as belief, since `belief’ often refers to faith or trust in an idea(s) which has not been personally experienced. Hence Buddhists only believe in Nirvana, and the basic principles to reach their goal. Theravada and Mahayana both agree with the Buddha’s view that anyone can attain Nirvana, and one can do it within one’s present life if the Buddha’s instructions are followed carefully and applied sincerely. The two main branches of Buddhism have the same Four Noble Truths and interpret these  teachings in a similar manner. The only relevant difference is that Mahayana Buddhists have Bodhisattvas to aid in follower’s quests for Nirvana, whereas Theravada Buddhists believe that since this path is unique, it is the individual’s task to determine how to incorporate the Buddha’s teachings in their own lives. As stated on BuddhaNet, _†Theravada Buddhism places great emphasis on the clergy (Sangha) as the only ones capable of attaining Nirvana__.†_ (Lyall, 2008). As such, the role of the laity (lay people: normal householders) in Theravada Buddhism is to support the clergy and lead a good life according to the Buddha, in the hope of a better rebirth. Whilst it is not taught that a lay person cannot reach enlightenment, as this would be going against a popular teaching of the Buddha, it is perceived as highly unlikely. In return for the lay people’s support, it is common for the monks to teach the laity, provide advice and conduct ceremonies such as marriages. In contrast, the Mahayana Teachings encourage both the laity and the clergy to become Boddhisattvas and attain enlightenment in their current life. Especially in the case of the laity, belief in the possibility of enlightenment at some stage in the many rebirths a person can undergo, is vitally important and an integral part of not only the religion, but the various cultures the religion exists within. The Four Noble Truths are the essence of the Buddha’s teachings. Similar to a doctor’s method for analysing a health issue, the Buddha has diagnosed the problem (suffering) and identified the cause (of the suffering) within the first and second Noble Truths. The third Noble Truth is the description of a cure, while the fourth is the prescription and instructions to recover. Buddhists believe in the Four Noble Truths in the hope of getting closer to enlightenment and find these teachings realistic and hopeful, rather than pessimistic. The first Noble Truth, suffering (Dukkha), describes suffering as presenting itself in many forms of which some are obvious, such as old age, sickness and death (which Buddha encountered immediately after leaving his palace), and others more subliminal. Buddha explained the problem in a more profound way, teaching that all human beings are subject to desires and cravings but acquiring satisfaction from these desires and pleasure is temporar y and will not last without becoming monotonous. The origin of suffering (Samudaya) is the second Noble Truth, and consists of Buddha’s  claims to have found the cause of all suffering – desire (tanha) – which comes in three forms (which have had various names including the Three Roots of Evil, the Three Fires and the Three Poisons). These forms are the ultimate source of suffering, and are; greed and desire, ignorance or delusion, and hatred and destructive urges. The way to extinguish desire is to liberate oneself from attachment, as is explained in the third Noble Truth – Cessation of Suffering (Nirodha). This truth states that attaining enlightenment involves extinguishing the three fires of greed, delusion and hatred and could be considered as a `definition’ for Nirvana. The path to the cessation of suffering (Magga) is the fourth Noble Truth and is often referred to as the Eightfold Path because Buddha outlined a set of eight principles to follow. These are the right understanding, intenti on, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration. Theravada Buddhism, being the more traditionalist branch, follows the practices that have been passed down by senior monks since the Buddha’s time. These traditions or practices include living in forests and performing both sitting and walking meditation. As part of their early training, Theravadan monks and nuns generally live in huts called `kutis’ situated in forests. These huts are built on stilts to keep animals and insects out and have a path for walking meditation. Older monks and nuns are not required to live in the forest, often residing in monasteries. Early each morning and evening, the monks and nuns from a particular school meet together for meditation and recitation. After these ceremonies, which are called _pujas_, they are required to study the Dharma. An important ritual carried out by people entering the temples is to wash their feet with water which has been carried up to the monastery from a stream, generally found below in the forest. The goal of the monks and nuns is to become an _Arhat_, a person free of suffering, through the meditation. Once free of suffering they can continue on their path to Nirvana. Different forms of Mahayana Buddhism have different religious practices. These practices are often heavily influenced by the culture of the society the Buddhist school(s) resides in. Tibetan Buddhist temples are heavily â€Å"†¦decorated with many kinds of Buddha images and wall hangings called  _thankas_.† Big prayer wheels, containing mantras written on strips of rice paper, are set into the walls of the temple while smaller, handheld versions are also common. Tibetan monks generally live in these temples and in between turning the prayer wheels and studying the various teachings, they hold various festivals. These festivals incorporate an array of prayer flags and other colourful decorations to celebrate significant periods. Japanese and Chinese monasteries are very similar to the Tibetan’s, but often with less vibrant, colourful decorations and less festivals. The monks and nuns recite Sutras and sit in meditation together regularly, akin to their Tibetan counterparts. The idea of studying, reciting and meditation in Mahayana Buddhism is to endeavour to accelerate the monks and nuns journey’s to enlightenment, in order that they can become Bodhisattvas and assist others as they near their journey’s end. Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism are very similar with regard to the fundamental teachings. They both accept Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama) as the Teacher, have identical Four Noble Truths (and therefore Eightfold Path), share ideas on the origins of the world, practice their faith similarly and accept many comparable Buddhist concepts. The only outright difference is the scriptures they most value and consider authoritative, which affect the general path members of each branch follow to attain Nirvana. Belief in the concept of enlightenment is therefore important within Buddhism with different branches and schools giving varying emphasis to the many teachings of Buddha and his close followers, while some believe in Bodhisattvas, from whom they take motivation, all believe in shaping their individual effort to achieve enlightenment. BIBLIOGRAPHY BBC, 2009a. BBC – Religions – Buddhism: Meditation [WWW Document]. BBC Religions. URL http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/buddhism/customs/meditation_1.shtml BBC, 2009b. BBC – Religions – Buddhism: The Four Noble Truths [WWW Document]. BBC Religions. URL http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/buddhism/beliefs/fournobletruths_1.shtml Dr. C. George Boeree, 2000. Buddhist Meditation [WWW Document]. Shippensburg University. URL http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/meditation.html GCSE RE site, 2011. Revision: Buddhism [WWW Document]. GCSE RE Site. URL http://www.mmiweb.org.uk/gcsere/revision/buddhism/keybeliefs/6_theravada.html Goldburg, P., Blundell, P., Jordan, T., 2009. Investigating religion. Cambridge University Press, Port Melbourne, Vic. Gunasekara, V., 2012. Basic Buddhism [WWW Document]. URL http://www.vgweb.org/bsq/basbud.htm#ch5 Gursam, L., 2009. The Importance of Meditation [WWW Document]. URL http://www.lamagursam.org/importance_of_meditation.html Harderwijk, R., 2011. The Four Noble Truths [WWW Document]. View on Buddhism. URL http://viewonbuddhism.org/4_noble_truths.html Heckert, L., 2012. An Overview of Buddhist Meditation [WWW Document]. Johansson, R., Tillekeratna, A., De Silva, L., 2012. Buddhist Studies: Nirvana [WWW Document]. URL http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/dharmadata/fdd43.htm Lyall, G., 2008. Buddhist Studies: The Rise of the Mahayana [WWW Document]. BuddhaNet. URL http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/buddhistworld/maha2.htm Nikaya, S., 2012. The Fourth Noble Truth [WWW Document]. BuddhaNet. URL http://www.buddhanet.net/cmdsg/truths5.htm Oracle ThinkQuest, 2012. Buddhism: Buddha [WWW Document]. Oracle ThinkQuest Library: Projects by Students for Students. URL

Court observstion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Court observstion - Essay Example The court demonstrate great power relation in the exercise of its jurisprudence, this is symbolized by the setting of its procedures, to the architecture of the courtroom, the procedures, the presentation of oneself from the judges to the defendants. This is illustrated as stated below: The Architecture: this comprises of the structure of the courtroom in relation with the power relation within the courtroom, the judges position was raised above the rest with the depicting high authority of the judge towards the other members. This does not accommodate equal power distribution among the participants. The fundamental architecture design of courtroom, complimented by precisely calculated use and placement of furniture, did not accommodate equal power distribution among all courtroom participants (Carlen, 1976, pg50). Instead, such architectural features awarded the presiding judged with the position with the most superior power (Carlen, 1976, pg50). The judges place was elevated making the defendant inferior to the judge, the judges dock was the highest positioning of the courtroom having it also centrally placed, ritualized the judges position as equal and non-partisan to any side. The defendants dock was placed isolated with a police officer standing beside the dock this showed the position of defence as the case was to proceed. The furniture in the courtroom is set that the occupants are facing and focused on the witness box which is placed at a lower level than any other furniture item allowing all the members of the courtroom to have clear focus on the witness (Greenberg, 1976, pg87). Arguably, while looking down upon defendant extents intimidation to witness, which makes them to understand their position in the power hierarchy of the courtroom ensuring clear conscious of the need to comply with the laid down system of the will and codes of the court. The presentation: the judges presence was followed by a peculiar silence depicting authority,

Use valid academic sources to illustrate the proximate causes for the Research Paper

Use valid academic sources to illustrate the proximate causes for the massive downturn of the U.S. economy 2009 - Research Paper Example What is however, significant to note that the crisis created a kind of contagion effect on other sectors of the economy also and started to take deeper roots in terms of creating recessionary pressures on the economy? During the last quarter of 2007, US officially went into the recession and official response from US government started to emerge. US took massive action in terms of supporting the failing institutions and government injected tax payers’ money in order to ensure that the whole financial system of the country should not collapse. This also included separate responses from the different actors of the State including The President, Congress, Treasury as well as the Fed Chairman while working in their official capacity. As discussed above that the original cause of financial crisis was the busting of asset bubble wherein the subprime mortgage portfolio of the banks started to get worse. Over the period of time, banks started the practice of lending to subprime borrowers- borrowers with impaired credit history- in order to earn higher returns. Most of the banks however, also securitized their mortgage portfolio and subsequently repackaged their loans and sold them in the form of mortgage based securities. (Cocheo. 2007). The real issue started to emerge when the subprime borrowers started to default and the banks have to divert their own funds to payoff their obligations on the mortgage based securities. This mismatching of the cash flows therefore created the credit crunch for other sectors of the economy and slowly started to engulf the whole economy. The apparent reason may be the subprime mortgages however, underlying this crisis, many critical weaknesses of the regulatory environment of the country. It is generally argued that the overall regulatory environment of the developed countries was so relaxed that the firms took undue advantage and started to adapt the business practices which were risky and put the entire

S.W.O.T. Analysis of Maaco Auto Body & Painting Research Paper

S.W.O.T. Analysis of Maaco Auto Body & Painting - Research Paper Example Experts in franchising have recognized MAACO for its overall excellence, growth potential and helpful support systems for store operators† (MAACCO: About MACCO, par. 2). The positive image of the company contributes to the increase in outlets and clientele since its inception. Gaebler Ventures aptly describes MAACO as a winning retail operation with extraordinary brand recognition, no national competition, and about a 47% U.S. market share. Maaco is more than a franchise opportunity. It is a proven system that provides continuous support and training to position you to grow a prosperous business. With Maaco, you receive expert assistance, so you never feel alone† (Gaebler, par. 1). The competitive advantage of the company is manifested through leadership in the automotive repair industry. According to IBIS World, the nature of the work for auto body shops in the US encompasses repairing the interior and the body of passenger cars, trucks, vans and trailers. These firms also carry out customization work on the interior and body of vehicles. Some firms specialize in certain auto repairs; for example, paint shops specialize in post-collision paint jobs, while automotive glass shops replace, repair and tint windows. Restoration shops, which typically represent a niche market, are involved in restoring classic and antique cars† (IBIS, par. 10). In this regard, this essay aims to proffer a SWOT analysis of MAACO, by reviewing the company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT), to explore its competitive advantage in their field of operations.... Strengths MAACO was recently ranked by AllStar Franchise as an organization worthy to be included in its AllStar list due to its strengths in terms of longevity which is likewise tantamount to years of experience in their business. As revealed by All Business, â€Å"the company has ranked high in financial strength for two consecutive years, and this year its Web visibility improved significantly (from #202 to #106). Maaco offers a conversion program to turn independent auto body shops into Maaco franchises, which is appealing to many independents in a tough economy. Parent company Driven Brands, which owns several automotive-related franchise companies, also has a Dealership Jump Start program that converts car dealerships to Maaco centers† (All Business, pars. 2 & 3). From its 149 AllStar ranking in 2010, the rank improved to 84 in 2011 proving that MAACO continues to utilize its internal resources effectively and efficiently. It boasts of according customers a price for rep airs which is 33% less than those quoted and charged by other repair shops (MAACO: Home, par. 1). As revealed by White, â€Å"in 2011, MAACO was ranked #1 in class by Entrepreneur Magazine† (par. 4). The unique franchising strategy entices investors to open new shops due to the financial prospects and the number of clientele who continue to patronize MAACO auto body shops. Further, Gross revealed that various customers in Canada expressed their content and satisfaction from the services provided by MAACO. Gross averred that â€Å"Maaco is the collision shop that paints cars. We do it all, and just as importantly, give you much more Value than anyone else can. By bringing your car to Maaco, North America's Bodyshop, you benefit from our encounter, buying power,

The Benefits of the Universitys Agricultural Patents Article

The Benefits of the Universitys Agricultural Patents - Article Example The cell line defends stops the growth of mycotoxins. Within the global food environment, Mycotoxin-infected agricultural products precipitate economic losses (DAR, 2006). University of Illinois (2013) offers Agriculture-based courses for farm enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. With the ARS and-University of Illinois patent partnership, the outcome is the improvement of our nation’s agriculture product outputs. The partnership ensures there is abundantly safe top quality food on the American people’s tables. The service helps its citizens, communities, and entities generate economic gains from agriculture transactions. The service scientifically conducts research to solve the nation’s agricultural problems. Solving includes protecting the agricultural products from identified pests (DAR, 2006). The purpose of the patent is to improve the nations’ agricultural food product scene. The improvement includes reducing the economic loss from infected agricultural food products. The research finds ways to reduce or eliminate the harmful effects a certain aflatoxin strain. Aflatoxin reduces the agricultural food products’ quality (DAR, 2006). Further, the ARS partners with University of Illinois to create anti-toxin defenses. Certain fungi produce mycotoxins. The mycotoxins crop up and develop on certain plant types. The plant types include barley, corn, wheat. Aflatoxin is one type of mycotoxin, a toxin (having ill effects) substance (DAR, 2006). The patent has many future applications. The patent will ensure an increase in farm plant outputs. With the anti-toxin patent, the University of Illinois and the United States Governments Agricultural Research Service increases the supply of plant food. With more food, the U.S. Governments hunger statistics is reduced. More food supply contributes to the reduction of farm food prices.  

Your thoughts concerning an intranet where employees can learn and Essay

Your thoughts concerning an intranet where employees can learn and mutually inspire each other - Essay Example Intranets just as any other computer networks including the internet use computer’s internet protocols to facilitate the haring of such resources as information, computing services and operating systems among many others within a single organization. This implies that an organization can customize the features of its intranet thereby making it unique and accessible to particular group of people who have specific interest in the organization. The size and type of an intranet to install in an organization depends on the size of the organization and the nature of the database used in such organizations. Debenhams plc. Is a multinational retail chain operating as department stores in Denmark, the United Kingdom and Ireland. As an organization requires an integrated database with appropriate intranet to link its franchises t a central database, thus enabling consolidate communication among the employees of the company. An intranet is a composition of different communication devices including a computer, routers, switches, data cables and telephones among many other features. To uyse an intranet effectively, employees require appropriate training and skills. Furthermore, the employees can train and support each other on the use of either each of the myriad component of the intranet or the entire network. Besides the above elements, an intranet may include other features such as fax machines, telephones and printers among others. The incorporation of these in an intranets permits sharing of the resources. The placement of such fractures should be strategic in order to facilitate access and efficient service delivery. Sharing of the resources constitute a major advantage of intranets since it makes management of organizations such as Debenhams plc. easier. By including a printer and a fax machine in an intranet, the organization consolidates the information processing mechanism thus permitting every station to access and print information without the need to buy several printers for every department. Additionally, the intranet maintains the integrity of the data printed by the centrally placed printer since it eliminates the use of secondary data storage facilities such as flash drives most of which transfer computer viruses thus impairing the functionality of the machines. An intranet is a fundamental feature of the Debenhams plc. It improves the level of professionalism in the organization besides its role in the operations of the firm. Through the intranet, Debenhams’ employees learn and inspire each other a feature that don not only improve the level of professionalism in the organization but also motivate employees thus improving profitability. Just as with any other technology, it will compel the employees to learn the ways of operation and handling in order to use efficiently. This way, the installation of an intranet in organization will motivate employees to learn and those with adequate knowledge on the operation of the di fferent machines to help enlighten others. Additionally, subsequent upgrade of the intranet will require progressive training of the staff in order to improve their ability to operate the equipment better. The use of computers is elaborate and requires professional technical knowhow depending on the roles of an employee in an organization. Managers for example use detailed programs in managing the organization’s operations and finance, the roles and duties of the employees differ depending on their positions within the organization. This implies that their use of the intranet will equally differ thus compelling the installation of different features of the intranet depending on the use

What does Martin Luther King Jr day have to do with me Essay

What does Martin Luther King Jr day have to do with me - Essay Example He asserts the people’s free will in becoming active elements of social changes: â€Å"Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.† I want to be part of the light walkers, contributing to actions that make this world a better place. King, furthermore, leads people to alternative actions. He says: â€Å"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.† I admire his non-violent means of attaining social changes. I believe that we should also be creative in thinking about and resolving our social issues. King is a rousing transformational leader. He serves as an inspiration to me because he does not allow himself and his people to remain oppressed. He is also a creative thinker. He compels me to think of different ways that can solve problems. What does King mean to me? He is a role model and a hero, a hero who remains alive in the hearts of those who fight for the preservation of justice and

BUSINESS STRATEGY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

BUSINESS STRATEGY - Essay Example Strategy is the other term for business planning to obtain competitive advantage in the market and to analyze the future events to operate successfully in uncertainty. The business strategies of an organization aim at bringing out strategic decisions about the choice of products, customer needs, and new opportunities in the terms of market and technology and other important decisions which help the firm to gain a competitive advantage in the market. The business houses cannot take appropriate and important decisions without the availability of the complete information of the external environment. Business organizations cannot run in vacuum and it has to involve the external environment. There are many related parties to the business like the customers, society, environment, employees, creditors etc. It is very important for the firm to have a complete knowledge about its internal and external environments. A thorough study of the internal and external processes of the organization helps it to understand its strengths by establishing the points or the areas where the organization is good at as well as understanding its weaknesses, the areas where further improvement is required. This analysis would further help in understanding the external environments to understand the scope of the organization in the future. The strategic planning and recommendation requires the thorough understanding of the internal environments of the organi zation so as to plot the strategies accordingly, for the maximization of the benefits drawn from the strategies. The stake holders of an organization play an important part in the policy formation and implementation of the strategies.

How to Succeed in College Essay Example for Free

How to Succeed in College Essay Hints on How to Succeed in College Classes The Key to Success: Study Time The single most important key to success in any college course is to spend enough time studying. A rule of thumb is that you should expect to study about 2 to 3 hours per week outside of class for each unit of credit. For example, a student taking 15 credit hours should expect to spend 30 to 45 hours each week studying outside of class. Combined with time in class, this works out to a total of 45 to 60 hours spent on academic work†not much more than the time a typical Job requires, and you get to hoose your own hours. Of course, if you are working while you attend school, you will need to budget your time carefully. As a rough guideline, your study time might be divided as shown in the table below. If you find that you are spending fewer hours than these guidelines suggest, you can probably improve your grade by studying longer. If you are spending more hours than these guidelines suggest, you may be studying inefficiently; in that case, you should talk to your instructor about how to study more effectively. If Your Course Is: Time for Reading the Assigned Text (per week) Time for Homework Assignments (per week) Time for Review and Test Preparation (average per week) Total Study Time (per 3 credits 2 to 4 hours 2 to 3 hours 2 hours 6 to 9 hours 4 credits 3 hours 8 to 12 hours 5 credits 3 to 5 hours 3 to 6 hours 4 hours 10 to 15 hours General Strategies for Studying 0 Budget your time effectively. Studying 1 or 2 hours each day is more effective, and far less painful, than studying all night before homework is due or before exams. 0 Engage your brain. Learning is an active process, not a passive experience. Whether you are reading, listening to a lecture, or working on assignments, always make sure hat your mind is actively engaged. If you find your mind drifting or falling asleep, make a conscious effort to revive yourself, or take a break if necessary. 0 Dont miss class, and come prepared. Listening to lectures and participating in class activities and discussions is much more effective than reading someone elses notes or watching a video later. Active participation will help you retain what you are learning. Also, be sure to complete any assigned reading before the class in which it will be discussed. This is crucial, since class sessions are designed to help reinforce key deas from the reading. 0 Use your textbook effectively. For a science book, for example: Begin by identifying the learning goals of an assigned chapter, and get an overview of key concepts by studying the illustrations and reading their captions. Next, read the chapter twice: On the first pass, read only the narrative, skipping any optional or boxed features; on the second pass, include the boxed features, and make notes on the pages to remind yourself of ideas you may want to review later. After you complete the reading, check your understanding by trying some of the end- f-chapter problems or any on-line quizzes or tutorials that may be available. 0 Start your homework early. The more time you allow yourself, the easier it is to get help if you need it. If a concept gives you trouble, first try additional reading or studying beyond what has been assigned. If you still having trouble, ask for help: You surely can find friends, peers, or teachers who will be glad to help you learn. 0 Working together with friends can be valuable in helping you understand difficult concepts. However, be sure that you learn with your friends and do not become dependent on 0 Dont try to multitask. A large body of research shows that human beings simply are not good at multitasking: When we attempt it, we do more poorly at all of the individual tasks. And in case you think you are an exception, the same research found that those people who believed they were best at multitasking were actually the worst! So when it is time to study, turn off your electronic devices, find a quiet spot, and give your work a focused effort of concentration. 02013, Jeffrey Bennett (www. effreybennett. com). Permission granted to photocopy as a two-sided handout for college classes. How to Succeed in College Classes, Page 2 Preparing for Exams 0 Rework problems and other assignments; try additional questions to be sure you understand the concepts. Study your performance on assignments, quizzes, or exams from earlier in the term. 0 Study your notes from classes, and reread relevant sections in you r textbook. Pay attention to what your instructor expects you to know for an exam. 0 Study individually before Joining a study group with friends. Study groups are effective only if every individual comes prepared to contribute. 0 Dont stay up too late before an exam. Dont eat a big meal within an hour of the xam (thinking is more difficult when blood is being diverted to the digestive system). 0 Try to relax before and during the exam. If you have studied effectively, you are capable of doing well. Staying relaxed will help you think clearly. Presenting Homework and Writing Assignments All work that you turn in should be of collegiate quality: neat and easy to read, well organized, and demonstrating mastery of the subject matter. Future employers and teachers will expect this quality of work. Moreover, although submitting homework of collegiate quality requires extra effort, it serves two important purposes directly related to learning: 1. . The effort you expend in clearly explaining your work solidifies your learning. In particular, research has shown that writing and speaking trigger different areas of your brain. By writing something down†even when you think you already understand it†your learning is reinforced by involving other areas of your brain. By making your work clear and self-contained (that is, making it a document that you can read without referring to the questions in the text), you will have a much more useful study guide when you review for a quiz or exam. The following guidelines will help ensure that your assignments meet the standards f collegiate quality: 0 Always use proper grammar, proper sentence and paragraph writing should be fully self-contained. A good test is to imagine that a friend is reading your work and to ask yourself whether the friend would understand exactly what you are trying to say.