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My first academic goal is for me to get better grades in my classes. For me to feel like I have accomplished that I would first need to get at least a B in each class. I also feel like this goal is essential to becoming the great student I know I can be. To achieve higher grades I think that all I need is to work a little harder and study while being organized. My second academic goal is for me to try and not procrastinate with my work. I want to do all my work at least 4 days in advance to give myself time to go over everything and not be stressed out.Me wanting to get all my work done is important to not procrastinate but I feel like I could probably be a little lax with the time limit I have given myself. For me to not procrastinate I should take advantage of all the extra time I have throughout the day to get any work done. My only career goal is for me to finish medical transcription school. Mat school is fairly easy since it's self-paced but I also want to be able to work from home soon to be able to help support my family.While me finishing isn't essential to my life, it is very important to me. This goal will be achieved once I figure out how to balance CUT and MAT school. I'm not really one to need family or friend support to get anything done. While it would be nice to have, it could also get kind of annoying with my family becoming too preoccupied with constantly asking about my work. I would prefer to Just stay on top of myself and get things done.

Regional Airlines Case Study

Case 2: Regional Airlines Case 2: Regional Airlines Case Introduction A+ for effort, Customer Service Pays for Itself In an extremely regulated and thus relatively uniform industry such as the commercial airline industry, the successful airline is the organization which sets itself apart from the competition. Within an industry that requires customer planning to interface with flight schedules and security measures, a major operational aspect which can aid an airline in gaining an edge on the competition is customer service.The effective consumption of air travel (finding flights, buying tickets, getting through the airport, boarding a plane, and finally reaching the final destination) is not the same simple consumer –supplier relationship that the consumer experiences in a trip through the Wal-Mart checkout counter; the nature of air travel makes the interaction between the airline and the customer very complex.Almost every facet of the complex relationship between the airlin e and customer can generate a large amount of stress for the consumer; consumers find poor customer service in the face of tight travel deadlines and paid for travel plans that did not necessarily go as intended extremely frustrating. Analysis Investigating Salient Case Issues To capitalize on offering a high level of effective customer service, an investment must be made.The airline must ensure their customer service department not only understands that customer service is highly valued in the organizational environment but also must ensure that the customer service department has the tools and resources to offer effective customer service (Graham, 2012). Like any business investment, the organization must make smart decisions when providing customer service resources; for instance a call center of fifty employees which only answers two calls an hour is a humongous waste of resources that would be better allocated towards another goal.The problem of understand that an investment to wards more effective customer service is needed, but at what cost to make that investment, is the problem which faces Regional Airlines in the case study on page 539 of the 2012 Anderson, et al, text: An Introduction to Management Science Regional Airlines is expanding its customer service operation by setting up a new phone system for the purpose of providing ticketing services and customer assistance over the phone.The airline is going ahead with the new phone system; however, two major decision points exist, how many agents to allocate to the line (one or two) and what complexity of system in which to invest (a system that provides a holding function versus one that does not). The expected call load for the new operation is one call every 3. 75 minutes, available metrics indicate that on each call a ticket agent spends 3 minutes with a customer; effectively this results that for every customer attended to, there will be 45 seconds of downtime (Anderson, et al, 2012).Unfortunately for Regional Air, those figures are only averages, there will be an indeterminate amount of calls which meet or exceed the 3. 75 minute span in between calls. The decision between systems which provides a hold function versus the one that does not will determine will determine if that customer is placed on hold or if the call is just dropped. Placing an unanswered call on hold provides a buffer for the agent to end the call and then service the holding customer; however, for a customer that stays on hold for an inordinate amount of time will begin to feel less and less like a well-served customer.The expected call load versus the time it takes for an agent to deal with each call is the basis of allocating only one agent to man the call system. The second option of allocating two or more agents is in effect, insurance that each call will be answered in a timely fashion and callers will not have to wait for extended periods of time. The decision of how many agents to allocate to the phone system is based upon the apparent cost for an extra agent sitting around not actively engaged in a call; however this view is relatively short sighted because it does not take into account the revenue lost from dropped calls and dissatisfied customers.The salient issue of the case is determining what the appropriate level of investiture to make for the phone system to provide an expected (and beneficial) level of customer service Group Discussion Exploring Simulations Simulation is a quantitative technique developed for studying alternative courses of action by building a model of that system and then conducting a series of repeated trial and error experiments to predict the behavior of the system over a period of time (Srivastava, Shenoy, & Sharma, 1989, p. 753). Of all the simulations waiting line simulations are of the most important to the customer service industry.In the airline industry long waiting times can lead to poor customer service scores and diminished sales. Reg ional Airlines is establishing a new telephone system for handling flight reservations (Anderson, Sweeney, Williams, Camm, & Martin, 2012). The airlines main goal is to decrease the wait time at its call centers and increase sales. Regional’s management team agrees that its goal should be to answer 85% of its incoming calls immediately. The following analyzes Regional Airline’s (RA) current reservation system and ways to improve it. Analysis of Current SystemCurrently RA is answering one call every 3. 75 minutes during 10:00 a. m. to 11:00 a. m. time period (? (average arrival time) = 60 minutes / 3. 75 minutes = 16 calls per hour). The average service time is 3 minutes per customer ( µ (service rate) = 60 minutes / 3 minutes = 20 calls per hour). With only one reservation agent, the probability that a caller will be blocked because of a busy signal is P1 = . 4444 ? o = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /0! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! = . 5556 ?1 = ( ? / ? ) 1/0! i=1k ? /? 1 /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) 1/0! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! = . 444 With two reservation agents, the probability that a caller will be blocked because of a busy signal is P2 = . 1509. ?o = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /0! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! + (16/20) 2 /2! = . 4717 ? 1 = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /1! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! + (16/20) 2 /2! = . 3774 ? 2 = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /2! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! + (16/20) 2 /2! = . 1509 Regional Airlines’ current phone reservation system will answer an approximate of 85% of phone calls with two employed reservation agents.However, the other 15% will be blocked because of a busy signal. Customers who do not get a hold of an agent may not call back and contribute to negative customer service reaction and adversely affect the business. Analysis of Agents Needed Proposed expanded system will allow callers to wait. Instead of being blocke d when all lines are busy, customers can choose to stay on the line and calls will be answered in the order received. With only one reservation agent for Regional Airlines in the expanded system, 80% (Pw) of incoming calls will end up waiting. The average waiting time is also at 12 minutes (Wq).Cited numbers above show a horrendous system that is both undesirable and a business model doomed for failure. So in order for RA to realize the benefits of the expanded system, it needs to employ two or more reservation agents. Po=1- ? /? = 1-1620=0. 20 Lq = ? 2 ? (? – ? ) = 16 2 20 (20 – 16) = 3. 2 L =Lq + ? /  µ= 3. +1620=4 wq+Lq / ? =3. 216=0. 20 hours=12 minutes W = wq + 1/ µ = 0. 20 + 1/20 = 0. 25 hours = 15 minutes Pw= =1620=0. 80=80% At the planning meeting, Regional Airlines’ management team agreed that answering at least 85% of the calls is an acceptable customer service goal.This means that the probability of waiting will have to be 15% or less. Pw= 1k! k k? k? – ? Po k = 2 agents Pw= 12! 16202 2 202 20- 16 0. 4286= 0. 2286 k = 3 agents Pw= 13! 16203 3 203 20- 16 0. 4472= 0. 0520 Po=0. 4472 Lq=0. 0189 L=0. 8189 Wq=0. 0012 hours=0. 07 minutes W=0. 0512 hours=3. 97 minutes Using three agents clearly meets the company’s goal. With three reservation agents, only 5% of the calls will be waiting, which is way below the 15% targeted cap in order to meet the goal of 85% answered calls. Average waiting time is also at a minimum, calculated at 0. 012 hours or 0. 07 minutes. System Recommendation The current telephone reservation system design does not allow callers to wait; callers instead must attempt to reach a reservation agent when all agents are not occupied. Should callers reach the service line when all agents are busy they will be met with a busy signal. The management at RA is seeking to switch to an expanded telephone system to combat this problem. Based on the calculations in the previous paragraphs, RA will need appro ximately 3 reservations agents to run an expanded phone system.Group 3 recommends that the company employ the multiple channels waiting line which consists of two or more service channels that are assumed to be identical in terms of service capability (Anderson, et. al. , 2012). Regional airlines could support at least a two-channel operation to service the needs of its customers. MANAGERIAL REPORT ASSUMPTIONS: a. One call every 3. 75 minutes during 10:00 a. m. to 11:00 a. m. time period ? (average arrival time) = 60 minutes / 3. 75 minutes = 16 calls per hour b. Average service time of 3 minutes with each customer  µ (service rate) = 60 minutes / 3 minutes = 20 calls per hour 1.An analysis of the current reservation system that does not allow callers to wait. How many reservation agents are needed to meet the service goal? With only one reservation agent, the probability that a caller will be blocked because of a busy signal is P1 = . 4444 ? o = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /0! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! = . 5556 ?1 = ( ? / ? ) 1/0! i=1k ? /? 1 /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) 1/0! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! = . 4444 With two reservation agents, the probability that a caller will be blocked because of a busy signal is P2 = . 509. ?o = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /0! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! + (16/20) 2 /2! = . 4717 ? 1 = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /1! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! + (16/20) 2 /2! = . 3774 ? 2 = ( ? / ? ) ? /0! i=0k ? /? i /i! = ( 16 / 20 ) ? /2! (16/20)o / 0! + (16/20)1 /1! + (16/20) 2 /2! = . 1509 Conclusion: Regional Airlines’ current phone reservation system will answer an approximate of 85% of phone calls with two employed reservation agents. However, the other 15% will be blocked because of a busy signal.Customers who do not get a hold of an agent may not call back and contribute to negative customer service reaction and adversely affect the business. 2. An analysis of the expa nded system proposed by the telephone company. How many agents are needed to meet the service goal? Proposed expanded system will allow callers to wait. Instead of being blocked when all lines are busy, customers can choose to stay on the line and calls will be answered in the order received. With only one reservation agent for Regional Airlines in the expanded system, 80% (Pw) of incoming calls will end up waiting. The average waiting time is also at 12 minutes (Wq).Cited numbers above show a horrendous system that is both undesirable and a business model doomed for failure. So in order for Regional Airlines to realize the benefits of the expanded system, it needs to employ two or more reservation agents. Po=1- ? /? = 1-1620=0. 20 Lq = ? 2 ? (? – ? ) = 16 2 20 (20 – 16) = 3. 2 L =Lq + ? /  µ= 3. +1620=4 wq+Lq / ? =3. 216=0. 20 hours=12 minutes W = wq + 1/ µ = 0. 20 + 1/20 = 0. 25 hours = 15 minutes Pw= =1620=0. 80=80% At the planning meeting, Regional Airlinesâ₠¬â„¢ management team agreed that answering at least 85% of the calls is an acceptable customer service goal.This means that the probability of waiting will have to be 15% or less. Pw= 1k! k k? k? – ? Po k = 2 agents Pw= 12! 16202 2 202 20- 16 0. 4286= 0. 2286 k = 3 agents Pw= 13! 16203 3 203 20- 16 0. 4472= 0. 0520 Po=0. 4472 Lq=0. 0189 L=0. 8189 Wq=0. 0012 hours=0. 07 minutes W=0. 0512 hours=3. 97 minutes Using three agents clearly meets the company’s goal. With three reservation agents, only 5% of the calls will be waiting, which is way below the 15% targeted cap in order to meet the goal of 85% answered calls. Average waiting time is also at a minimum, calculated at 0. 012 hours or 0. 07 minutes. 3. An analysis of the expanded system proposal by the telephone company. A representative from the telephone company suggested that Regional Airlines consider an expanded system that accommodates waiting. In the expanded system, when a customer calls and all agents are bus y, a recorded message tells the customer that the call is being held in the order received and that an agent will be available shortly. The customer can stay on the line and listen to background music while waiting for an agent.Expanded System with waiting allowed Pw for 1 agent P0= (1-? /? ) 1-16/20=. 20 Lq= ? 2 =16(2)= 3. 2 ?(? – ? ) =20(20-16) L= Lq+( ? /? )=3. 2 +(16/20)=4 Wq =(Lq/ ? )=3. 2/16=. 20 (12 minutes) W=Wq+(1/ ? )=. 20+ (1/20)= . 25 (15 minutes) Pw= ? /? = 16/20=. 80 Expanded System with waiting allowed Pw for 2 agents Pw=1/k! ( ? /? )k k? / k? – ? P0 1/2! (16/20)2 2(20)/2(20)-16 . 4286= . 2286 Expanded System with waiting allowed Pw for 3 agents 1/3! (16/20)3 3(20)/3(20)-16 . 4472= . 520 In order to use this system, Regional Airlines would have to use three agents to keep the customer service of 85% of the calls being answered immediately. The telephone arrival rate of incoming calls is expected to change from hour to hour. Describe how your waiting line analysis could be used to develop a ticket staffing plan that would enable the company to provide different levels of staffing for the ticket reservation system at different times during the day. Indicate the information you would need to develop this staffing plan.This analysis only covers the 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM time frame. As we have seen with the equations used, we have to have historical data for the other time frames. If the phone lines are open from 08:00AM – 08:00 PM, we could use the data from each hour. Keeping with the 85% rate of phone calls being answered immediately for good customer service and the use of the limited amount of call agents required to save Regional Airlines money, after further analysis, Regional Airlines will have the data need to make the best decisions for their company. 4. Staffing PlanIn order to develop a ticket agent staffing plan that would enable the company to provide different levels of staffing for the ticket reservation syst em at different times during the day, a similar simulation method and analysis used above are needed. By implementing the same application, the right number of reservation agents each hour can be determined. In addition to the number of agents used, it is also possible to use the same information to determine the full-time and part-time shift schedules that meet the company’s customer service goals.But in order for RA to do this, it needs the hourly average arrival rate for the whole day. 5. References Anderson, D. , Sweeney, D. , Williams, T. , Camm, J. , & Martin, K. (2012). An Introduction to Management Science Quantitative Approaches to Decision Making. Mason, OH. South-Western Cengage Learning Graham, J. (2012). Think Like the Customer – Or Lose the Sale. American Salesman, 57(4), 18-23. Srivastava, U. K. , Shenoy, G. V. & Sharma, S. C. (2005). Quantitative techniques for managerial decisions (2nd Edition). New Age International Publishers: New Delhi.

Medical Office Basics: Hoarding

Do you have a problem selling, throwing away, or even recycling things? If you do it is very possible that you may have an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder referred to as Hoarding. Another way to tell if you have this problem is if you shop too much. According to the International OCD Foundation, 3 out of every 4 people shop excessively. While collecting research and reading over signs and symptoms that I will cover later in this paper I realized that I may have an undiagnosed Hoarder in my immediate family. The International OCD Foundation states, â€Å"Hoarding is a complex disorder that is made up of three connected problems: 1) collecting too many items, 2) difficulty getting rid of items and 3) problems with organization. † Of the items hoarded the most common are newspapers and clothes, but also commonly includes containers, junk mail, craft items, books, trash, and in some cases animals. Even collectors can eventually fall into the category of being a Hoarder when their collection becomes so overwhelming that they are no longer able to display their possessions in a safe manner. The clutter in a persons’ dwelling must create a health and safety concern, and also significant distress, in order to truly be categorized as a disorder. It is estimated that as many as 1 in every 20 people have a substantial amount of hoarding problems. The act of Hoarding, cluttering of living spaces and keeping items of little to no value, is most commonly found in older age groups but in rare cases can also be found in adolescents and children as early as 3 years old. The reason that hoarding is found so commonly in the elderly is because the severity of the disorder increases with each decade of life. Hoarding is also found to be more dominant in men than in women. Symptoms of Hoarding are believed to begin in early childhood or adolescence and progress each year without proper therapy. Hoarding is one of only two psychiatric disorders that increase in severity and prevalence as you progress in life, the other is Dementia. There are many consequences that come along with Hoarding, one of the worst being evicted from your home or even your house being ruled as condemned. There was a study done that found 45% of Hoarders could not use their refrigerators, 42% could not use their kitchen sink, 42% could not use this bathtub, 20% cannot use their bathroom sink, and 10% could not use their toilet. In many cases finances also become an immeasurable quandary in a Hoarders life due to paying for storage units for their priceless treasures, buying items to add to their clutter and paying housing fines caused by their property appearing disheveled or having â€Å"lack of curb appeal†. There are four primary characteristics of Hoarding. The first thing you could see is depression or anxiety with a family history of hoarding. Secondly people who hoard have difficult time processing information; these problems can usually be interpreted as having Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder qualities. Third, people who hoard tend to form intense emotional attachments to a wider variety of objects than a person who doesn’t hoard. Hoarders attach human-like qualities to inanimate objects. In other words, asking a Hoarder to get rid of an item is like asking them to get rid of a loved one. The last characteristic is that Hoarders do not want to waste objects or throw away items that could be seen as a loss of opportunity represented by the object. As far as treatments for Hoarding there have not been many medical advances. The only treatments medical professionals have been able to come up with thus far are psychiatric treatments, interventions by friends and family, and prescription medications. Although there are medical professionals hoarders could talk to many times they will come up with reasons to avoid getting help such as, cost of treatment, transportation problems, negative views of mental health, low motivation, and lack of public awareness. Future psychotherapy research may focus more on behavioral (exposure treatment) rather than traditional cognitive therapy principles. If you are concerned that you may have some hoarding tendencies there are various types of tests available online to determine if you are a hoarder and how extreme your case might be. There is a test called Saving Inventory-Revised that only involves a test of 24 questions before revealing your score at the end. Another test that would be useful is called the Clutter Image Rating, this test will give you four picture examples of what hoarding looks like and you compare your house with the pictures given in order to rate at what stage of a Hoarder you are. While researching and writing about this topic I learned many things about hoarding that I had not already known. There are many things about Hoarding that you cannot learn by just watching a show on television such as the different treatments that are offered and the things required to classify someone as a Hoarder. I have now come to the conclusion after comparing pictures of a family member’s home to those on the Clutter Image Rating website and now knowing the requirements to being a Hoarder that I do in fact have an undiagnosed Hoarder in the family. References (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.ocfoundation.org/hoarding Frost, R. O. (2010). Stuff: Compulsive Hoarding and the Meaning of Things. New York: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Paxton, M. (2011). The Secret Lives of Hoarders. New York: Penguin Group.

Race and Gender Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Race and Gender - Essay Example In families where mothers work outside, most of the fathers have dominated childcare (changing the infants’ diapers and bathing the infants); indeed, results showed that such infants achieved average social skills and enjoyed the external stimulation from their fathers, as they were as skillful and loving as the infants’ mothers were (Blau et al 2006). There is a preference of equalitarian marriage where both spouses share work responsibilities, home making and child rearing (Lewis & Sussman, 1986). Other family members including the offspring’s have also been involved in different tasks within the family. For example, in the African rural settings, the male children could look after the livestock owned by the family, and other communities allowed their females to build houses for the male counterparts for example the plain and highland nilots. Policies affecting paid work and family Different family members are concerned with different tasks and certain policies both traditional and corporate affect their performance. Maternity policies apply to the expectant mothers both the young and adult mothers (Blau et al 2006). Such a policy ensures that, for example, in the corporate sector, the expectant mother is subjected to a maternity leave for a defined period before and after childbirth. This ensures that the mother does not strain in terms of performing certain family duties. This is also evident in the traditional society setting as the family members perform family tasks while the expectant mothers have maximum rest. The social policy has a number of parental leaves that are usually granted to either the mother, father or both members. The... The report stresses that nonstandard employment defines poorly paid, insecure, and unprotected type of employment, which in essence cannot support any given household because of poor pay. This type of employment entails part time, temporal, on-call work and both the worker and employer face different advantages and disadvantages. Workers with scarce expertise or skills may benefit as they are given managerial and overseer posts in the employment. The female gender benefits from the part-time nature of the work and they can balance between the work and their family care. In general, the employees are not fixed to the employers timetables throughout as it provides flexibility to other chores. This paper makes a conclusion that structured flexibility provides opportunities for some groups that would be excluded, such as expectant females. The employer can perform the desired work at their own convenience because they only offer the opportunity when it arises, and this reduces the costs incurred. The author declares that the worker faces job insecurity, as there is no guarantee for full time employment, and hence financial instability of the workers. Incomes from the nonstandard jobs are low, resulting into low living standards of the workers. Discrimination and abuse occurs due to gender, for the women who work as house helps, they are usually subjected to sexual harassment by their employers, the workers health is not guaranteed as they work at their own risks, workers are not subject to benefits such as pensions, health care and medical coverage.

Sarasota School of Architecture Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Sarasota School of Architecture - Research Paper Example l style or Bauhaus as it is called in European school, deviated from the historical styles and started innovations by introducing new materials and technologies (Sarasota Architectural Foundation , par 2). Sarasota combined Bauhaus with the forms of Southern Architecture which made use of patios, verandas, modular construction and raised floors which allow natural ventilation (Sarasota Architectural Foundation , par 3). â€Å"The style added a play of light and shadow, and the color and texture of indigenous low maintenance materials, softening the cold machine aesthetic of the Bauhaus† (Sarasota Architectural Foundation , par 3). Characteristic of the design were flat roofs with no ornamentation and no air-conditioning. Building materials used for the beach houses were plywood, plate glass and terrazzo flooring (Herald Tribune , par 3). These were accentuated by bright primary colors but the wood structural elements were painted white. The Herald Tribune further describes the beach houses as having big roof overhangs, glass walls to allow the view of the water, cross ventilation and sometimes vaulted roof forms (par 3). The Sarasota School of Architecture reflected a minimalis t architectural style which minimized the impact of the sun, captured the breezes but at the same time took advantage of the indoor and outdoor spaces (Sarasota History Alive , par 18). "The beauty of simplicity, the concept of sculpted architectural space, and the emotional aspects of architecture," are the concepts that Sarasota adapted from the Masters of Modern Architecture (Sarasota History Alive , par 17). Several modern architectural principles were adapted by the Sarasota School of Architecture. Clear geometric and structural concepts played an important role in creating a defined living space. Enclosure of space and capture of light was another principle utilized (Seibert , par 5). Nowadays, one seldom sees houses or buildings that are greatly influenced by the Sarasota

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Case study - Assignment Example Management is essentially an act of fulfillment of objectives through people, and efficient management implies getting the maximum output from the people. Therefore, a good manager must encourage teamwork and enhance team spirit by meeting the needs of both the individual and the team. This paper will focus on a case study regarding problems of human resources. In any organization, managerial goal is to extract optimum performance from workers and employees for the benefit of the organization. The concept of High Performance Work Practices (HPWP) is a deliberate attempt to establish working patterns that will enhance the overall performance of the organization. This concept is not new and employees who embrace this concept are only implementing common sense approach to improve their performance level. HPWPs indicate assessment of own work, flexible working patterns, and other strategies to provide maximum results. HPWPs also encompass strategic recruitment policies and motivational schemes like promotions, financial rewards and flexible working hours (Sung & Ashton, 2005, p.2). According to research based on world reports, there are two major advantages of HPWPs. First, such practices maintain a steady improvement in the performance level of employees, and second, employee satisfaction can be enhanced both in terms of work and personal lif e. The combined impact of these two benefits is reflected in high level of employee commitment, improved financial performance, sustained competitiveness, and innovation (Sung & Ashton, 2005, p.8). In this section, I will be highlighting the problems of human resources in ServiceCo which is a â€Å"support services partner in the UK providing business solutions for clients across the local government, transport, education, health and defence sectors† (Alfes et al., 2010, p.8). Currently, 10,500 employees are engaged in 200 locations in UK. According to survey

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For and Against Nuclear Power Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

For and Against Nuclear Power - Essay Example There has been varying views about nuclear power. Some people are against nuclear while others support nuclear power as a source of energy and electricity. Nuclear power is believed to be an alternative to threats of global warming. In addition, it offers unlimited source of electricity and energy. Actually, green house emissions contribute to rise globally causing an increased temperature rise. Electricity generation is a major contributor of greenhouse gas mainly due to burning of fossil fuels. On the other hand, nuclear plant does not emit carbon dioxide that is one of the major components of green house gas. Therefore nuclear power acts as a complement to other non-polluting source liken wind and solar. Moreover, nuclear power is the most reliable source of energy. There is possibility of having reliable and enough energy from nuclear plant twenty with no disruption. Nuclear power is not subject to wind, sun or tides. The amount of energy needed can be regulated. Additionally, wa ste resulting from nuclear power is minimal and accumulates after many years. Hence, there is no harm to the environment. In addition, nuclear power increases country dependence on its own source of energy. This will help a country avoid unstable supply of oil and gas usually due to conflicts arising in source countries. Hence, Supply disruption will not affect countries that have adopted nuclear power (Ferguson, & Council on Foreign Relations, 2007). However, there are still some disadvantages of nuclear power. Of the most important is the cost of building a nuclear plant. In fact, it is uneconomical compared top other source of energy. Country economy is affected significantly. Moreover, nuclear power site are becoming the target for terrorist attack. Such an attack is likely to affect the country involved significantly. Nuclear plant releases harmful chemicals with long-term consequences to the general population. Chronic diseases

Functions of Planning and Organizing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Functions of Planning and Organizing - Essay Example As such, planning entails the design of a firm’s activities to respond accordingly to its goals and objectives. However, organizing involves selecting the suitable structure that promotes the implementation of the designed scheme (Hiles, 2011). Therefore, this piece incorporates the concepts of planning and organizing in developing a plan for promoting Macdonald’s. The paper starts by exploring the vision, goals and objectives of developing such a strategy for Macdonald. The paper first examines the state of the company by performing a SWOT analysis. Subsequently, there is a critical assessment of the appropriate strategies, which aim at highlighting the company’s strengths while addressing its weakness. An informed conclusion of the strategies that can promote company’s activities follows. Vision, Goals and Objectives of the Plan This plan’s sole vision is making MacDonald Inc a force in the world’s fast food trade in future. The goals of th e plan include boosting the company’s profits, establishing competitive attributes and addressing the company’s threat and weaknesses effectively. The main objective of plan is developing a comprehensive scheme, which centers on the company’s strengths while countering its weaknesses hence providing an approach that will enable the company to adjust to the dynamic market. The auxiliary objectives include conducting a Swot analysis in the company to propagate knowledge about its market status. Swot Analysis The Company Background Macdonald is a multinational company that significantly controls the world’s fast food supply. Since the date of establishment, the company has recorded incredible growth. Presently, it runs outlets in more than 118 countries. However, the organization is currently facing stiff competitions that are straining it growth. Strengths Strong command powers The company has a reputable market for its products as evident in the extensive supply networks. This is witnessed in most parts of the world; thus, generating massive sales. Fiscal stability The Company has a large business capital and is currently experiencing a period of financial harmony. Indeed, company’s sales are comparatively performing well in the market and returns are appealing. Adaptability to market fluctuations The company can adjust rapidly to the market changes since its large capital can allow a adoption of products diversification models (Kleindl, 2007). Weaknesses The company trades in dynamic products since the food industry provides assorted tastes and preferences that keep changing depending on the availability. Additionally, the company engages in expensive promotion campaigns, which are unproductive; hence, wasting funds. Opportunities Macdonald has the opportunity to venture into emerging food markets especially the provision of organic foods. As such, the company ought to shift its focus from fast foods, which are increasingly s hunned. Threats The emergence of new companies poses threats to Macdonald’s especially when they are small. This is because they require less capital hence their number continues to grow. Notably, the culture of distributing packaged foods though retail chains like supermarket is becoming popular in the market. Strategies Product Restructuring Marketing strategies are plans aimed at capturing the market to increase awareness and purchase of the company’s products. McDonalds can engage in innovative marketing

Should Welfare Recipients be Drug Tested to Receive Government Aid Research Paper

Should Welfare Recipients be Drug Tested to Receive Government Aid - Research Paper Example Those in support of drug testing the people on public assistance emphasize on the efficient use of taxpayer money and that saving money, that is otherwise deemed to have been used for illicit drug activity, would help in tight state budgets. Edward Buchanan, a Republican speaker of the Wyoming house said, â€Å"The idea from Joe Taxpayer is, ‘I don’t mind helping you out, but you need to show that you’re looking for work, or better yet that you’re employed, and that you’re drug and alcohol-free.’ † (The New York Times, 2012). This is as simple as it gets. The state will test you for drugs before you qualify to receive the compensation. To support the point, Garth Everett, a Republic who defended drug testing legislation said that concern for drug test grew out of bitterness that the workers in many industries are tested for drugs several times, whereas welfare recipients are never subject to any such tests despite a high possibility of drug abuse. Therefore their point is that the government may require drug tests from the recipients of the compensation just to ensure that they are not involved in any illegal activity and utilize their funds responsibly. According to them, this shouldn’t be contrary to the statute and constitution as a government can be seen as an employer of welfare recipients in this case (Hall, 2012). On the other hand, those against the proposal have tried to make their point on the basis of statistical evidence and conclusions drawn therefrom. They argue that the rule to drug test these innocent patients is not in accordance with the US constitution as it makes an unreasonable assumption about the welfare recipients to be drug abusers. Therefore testing these unfortunate citizens for drug abuse would amount to an unconstitutional search of people who sought help. This could also jeopardize the main purpose of this good cause. W. Patrick Goggles, a Democrat  state representative said, â€Å"This legislation assumes suspicion on this group of people, it assumes that they’re drug abusers.†

The Ethical Treatment of Animals Essay Example for Free

The Ethical Treatment of Animals Essay Utilitarianism values equality of all interest parties. It is on the principle that when making a decision, thorough consideration on the consequent cost and benefit must be made, and it is on the basis of impartial consideration of all related interest parties that the final decision should be made. Rights-based ethics, however, value the right of individuals. It is more like individualism. It is on the principle that when making a decision, whether the right of individuals or groups will be upheld or violated should be evaluated, and it is on the basis of the benefit maximization of certain individuals or groups that the final decision should be made. The major conflict between utilitarian and rights-based moral reasoning lies in the conflict between the right of one party and the whole party. Utilitarian accepts and sometimes requires the sacrifice of the right of one individual or a small group for the well being of a bigger group. This is absolutely an absurd decision in rights-based moral reasoning. For example, in the spelunking case, a utilitarian would detonate the dynamite to save 19 lives at the sacrifice of the one stuck in the hole, while the decision made on rights-based moral reasoning will be not to detonate the dynamite. This is because according to utilitarianism the benefit of detonating the dynamite is way too higher than the cost, while in rights-based moral reasoning by detonating the dynamite the right of the one who got stuck will be violated. In my opinion, the â€Å"crime† of killing fighting dogs is acceptable in right-based moral reasoning but is unacceptable in Utilitarianism. According to the utilitarian moral reasoning, the sacrifice of the interest of a smaller group is acceptable for the good of a bigger group. However, in this case, if dogs count as one group, the sacrifice of the poorly performing dogs is no necessary requirement of the survival of other fighting dogs, nor of the livelihood of any human group. If they do not count as one group , the people who love dogs must count, the behavior of killing dogs would hurt their feelings, so when impartial consideration of all related interest parties is made, the cost of letting these dogs live must be less than the benefit. Therefore, the behavior of killing dogs is against the Utilitarianism values. Rights-based ethics, nevertheless, defends the right of any individual or group, and the  duty is not taken into consideration. Just like the defender’s said, the dogs are Vick’s property, and he can do what he like to them, despite the fact that he also has the duty to take good care of them. Even though there is no doubt the right to live is one of the most fundamental rights of any creature, the right-based moral reasoning are for the right of human, dogs, sadly, are not included. So when this right-based moral system is at work, any kind of disposal of one’s property is acceptable. That is why I say the â€Å"crime† of Vick the â€Å"crime† of killing fighting dogs is acceptable in right-based moral reasoning but is unacceptable in Utilitarianism.

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button Film Studies Essay

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button Film Studies Essay In 2008, the short story was adapted to fit the big screen and unlike the short story the movie adaptation ran for almost three hours (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, n.d.) . Most people could read Fitzgeralds version three-four times over in that amount of time the movie took. The basis of both the book and movie was simplistic yet versions told the fictional life story of a man living and experiencing life as he is developing physically backwards and cognitively forwards. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a rarity because normal Hollywood/story adaptations lack well developed variations of the story in their respective ways. They both are designed to force the reader or movie goer to self- reflect on their own life experiences. Benjamin Buttons life was an incredible account of events and relationships that were discovered, created, built and lost throughout his life-span. However, while he accomplished so much he was unable to live a life in the normal development pattern, but it allowed him and the reader/movie goer to view life from a different perspective. However his love of life is always strong and he spends a lifetime experiencing events on the opposite side of the spectrum dealing with the frustrations and hardship of being different (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). The Curious Case of Benjamin Button demonstrates developmental stages in reverse in such detail that one might believe it is not a completely fictional story. The story demonstrates the life experiences and development in a graceful depiction of life, love, and the events we expect to happen but never absolutely occur in exact linear progression. Benjamin Buttons journey starts off with his birth at a hospital, during a non-traditional period where hospitals were unusual settings for birth (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). This depicts the framework for the awkward experiences ahead. A hospital delivering babies was not a American societal custom in the 1860s. It was assumed that children were better off being born in the home in a safe environment even if the environment did not include a doctor. The intrigue of what is different about Benjamin is generated as the story builds, the doctor and the nurses at the hospital are depicted as rude and cruel towards the parents and newborn child. The doctor states that his professional reputation is damaged along with the odd reactions of the nurses (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). The narrator describes apprehensive and petrified behaviors after the delivery of Benjamin Button, but the narrator does not mention why the hospital staff are reacting through trepidations descriptions. When the peculiarity of Benjamin is finally explained, it leaves one to ponder the developmental process Benjamin will go through. Benjamins father is mortified, with the circumstance of his sons condition and development. He even states that his son as an appalling apparition and expresses concern about the views of society and his culture will have when they meet Benjamin (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). While his father struggles to process the situation. The question his parents struggle with is trying to decide what stage of development Benjamin is developing in. As Erik Eriksons theory states, Benjamin should be in a basic needs stage and learning about parental trust (Berk, 2012). Erikson defines trust as a critical openness of believing in the compassion that your parents will provide you with fundamental basic needs, and building a sense of ones own trustworthiness of themselves and others. In normal case of development an infant depends on parents providing care and nourishment. Eriksons theory places a high significance on the mother, providing an environment of nourishment and safety (Berk, 2012). Benjamins development was not occurring in a trust or mistrust stage and not developing the need of parental influences, associated with basic trust and mistrust theory (Berk, 2012). Benjamins father demonstrated distant and apathetic feelings towards his son (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). If Benjamin was developing normally, his fathers behavior would severely impact Benjamins ability to develop trust in people close to him. A childs relative understanding of the world and society are largely modeled through parental interactions with their child. Benjamins mother was warmth, affectionate and loving towards Benjamin even though her son was very different (Berk, 2012). Benjamins father acts with detestation about the condition of his sons development (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). . Benjamin is in a stage of later life cognitive thoughts and his emotional stage is one of slow physical productivity and exploration of reflections of a life accomplished tasks and self-integrity determines (Berk, 2009). Benjamin did not have these experiences, but he was portrayed through the story as living a happy, productive and meaningful life (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). While his father develop a sense of despair and internalized his sons condition as a failure of his own life, he believed this lead to constant internal disappointment in himself and his son. Mr. Button was not intrinsically motivated to help his son achieve and did was not demonstrating a content parental attitude and was not happy about providing his son with basic needs. If Benjamin was a normal developing child his fathers lack of providing parental support, learning opportunities and experiencing would severely impair Benjamin (Berk, 2009). Mr. Button finds a costume suit, that he wants Benjamin to wear as normal clothes, Benjamin rightfully complains about the attire. Mr. Button is ferocious in his reply to his son and tells him he embarrassed him with his presents. Benjamin replies to his father in what could only be a learned response of offensive remarks towards his father and breaking the tension with a comical imitation of loving discourse towards his father (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). . His parents were still trying to feed him warm milk through bottles and he would joylessly shake his rattle to appease them. His parents were so confused about how to introduce him to socially appropriate activities, so they went with activities that were with children the same age as him. But Benjamin was establishing a taste of Havana cigars which he stole from his father, as he read the encyclopedia (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). His parents pushed his peer interacts even though his condition placed him in a much advanced development stage. Benjamin was starting to transition into a new stage as he digressed from late life development levels to middle age stage behaviors and thoughts associated with cognitive thought processes displayed in late and middle age stages (Berk, 2009). Benjamin would still try and appease his parents though age related behaviors such as breaking a window or break something to continue the age related behaviors that made his father happy (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). Benjamin and his grandfather became good friends and were able to relate and they spent much time together. However, Benjamin was sent to kindergarten when he turned five and fell asleep so often that he was removed. Benjamin knew where he was in the developmental stages and felt childish not being able to wear long pants. When he asked that he be allowed to wear long pants, his father replied with needing to wait until he was fourteen. So, Benjamin feeling the need to advance his ability to leave a positive impact on society applied and successfully enrolled at Yale. However, he was unable to color his gray hair and was thrown out of Yale because they felt that he posed a threat. Benjamin was still frail in stature, but they decided that not understan ding him was a danger. Benjamin went to Harvard and became a Harvard graduate instead (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). . Benjamin returns from war in 1880, as a twenty year old in a fifty year old body. His father looks more like a brother and their developmental cogitation parallel each other. Benjamin met Hildegarde Moncrief during a dance and reacts to her physically beauty, company and social equalities with instant adornment (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). She felt just as strongly because she assumes he is in his fifties. She and Benjamin are engaged within six months. Benjamin is in the early stages of middle age and in the late stages that play a role in ones quest for intimacy with a partner or being isolated due to rejection of intimacy (Berk, 2009). Benjamin and Hildegarde are at or around this development stage, neither one wants to be isolated from the affection of another. Both have established age related identities, and developed the ability to be in a long-term relationship, because they have formed intimate, mutual relationships that can include sacrifices and compromi ses needed in a healthy relationship require. Both of the characters understood this because of their cognitive development and knew what the other wanted (Berk, 2009). This could explain the lack of time it took Benjamin to ask for Hildegardes hand. Benjamin and his wife have children and over the years he starts to appear younger. His interest in his wife is a losing battle along with his marriage, but he regains an interest in rejoining the army when war is declared (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). . Benjamin leaves to fight in the Spanish-American War of 1898. Benjamin is moving from a development in the the Intimacy vs. Isolation confliction stage to a late stage development of commitment. Benjamin is starting to develop a confusion of identity. This may explain Benjamins desire to re-join the Army and go to war, and lose interest in his wife. When Benjamin returns he finds his wife aging quickly and her development is taking place in the later stages of life, her hair is gray and he realizes that he is developing younger behaviors while she is developing in the opposite direction. They have a son and Ten years after his son graduates, from Harvard Benjamin goes to Harvard to play football and when he plays against Yale, he single handily scored seven touchdowns and fourteen field goals as a freshman athlete (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). . Benjamin development starts demonstrating the competence stage and at fifty-seven he enjoys reading stories and playing with age related peers, and he is considered a playful child (Berk, 2009). His son Roscoe is disgraced with him and is made that he is no longer a man but a child (DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008). His son has a baby and he is a grandfather but they are attending kindergarten on the same day and in the same development level demonstrating autonomy abilities and feeling shame and self-doubt. Benjamin slowly develops into the infant that his parents long ago wish he was and tried to raise him as and slowly developed into nothing dying peacefully as an infant(DeFilippis, Weir, Cornell, Fitzgerald, 2008).

Technological Progress in Science, Arts and Literature

Technological Progress in Science, Arts and Literature Introduction Technology has an influence on the existence of human beings because it brings new risks as well as improving our lives. Technology has impacted a vast range of sectors ranging from health, sports, communication, and entertainment among other parameters. For instance, today individuals are anticipated to live longer as compared to the olden days due to the impacts of new technology in the medical sector. Scientific discoveries are made day by day thereby changing our world. Discussion Just like any other sectors, literature and arts field has also been significantly affected by the advancement in science and technological aspects in our world today. The manner in which art and literature works are presented has become completely different as compared to the early days before technological developments. Some of the rapidly growing art and literature aspects that have been affected by the advancement of science and technology include art application, graphic design; computer generated paintings, art blogs, Photoshop, 3D hacking, E-book, digitally created music, 3D scanning among others (Garcia Calantone, 2002). To begin, one of the literature industries that scientific and technological development has impacted significantly is the film and movie sector. Both digital and mechanical innovations have affected everything from production, distribution, and exhibition of film products. For instance, under production, the advanced technology has changed the manner in which films are shot especially with the use of some special effects. For example, the Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) is a technology that which implicates the computer graphics to unique effects. It is mainly used for visual effects since it makes the scenes controllable. For example, instead of employing the use of thousands of extras in a given scene as before, today CGI would be used for easier and simpler control. Also, many technologies today affect the distribution of films. For example, it is possible for individuals to view movies on portable devices in every location across the world. It is also possible to upload films on small devices and watch them at your discretion. The use of the internet has also simplified the viewing process of films both in legal and illegal means. For instance, an individual can download and view pirated copies free of charge on the internet. Finally, under film industry, the exhibition process of videos has been influenced as well. For instance, special effects have affected the manner in which videos are exhibited through the creation of new motives for the audience due to the special effects that are provided by the CGI technology. Besides, the digital technology has facilitated the creation of bigger and better films with numerous scenes which result into visceral pleasure for the viewers. Another key area in literature that has been transformed by the technological and scientific advancement is our reading and publishing of books. In this sector, self-publishing has been developed, and it has changed the world of books in various ways. For example, today, there is a broader understanding of publishing as compared to before. For an extended period, the publishing industry has suffered the irony that there is the only evidence of publishing when it is invisible. Today, since it is possible to publish brochures for fundraising or sports or even school cookbooks, individuals have learned the steps that are involved in publishing. Besides, due to the emergence of science and technological skills, the role of an author has continuously changed. As a result of media fragmentation in the recent years, publishers were dependent on the authors for marketing reasons, and this is a way of empowering. Because authors can meet their readers during the marketing process more so at literary festivals, or by tweeting or running blogs, they get to know their readers well and do not have to rely on publishers for relationship mediation purposes. The duty of agents has as well changed due to this type of advancement. Initially, the role of agents was to introduce the ingenuine authors to potential investors then associating with them in building long-term careers. However, due to the emergence of many self-publishing authors, agents have found it difficult since the self-publishing authors interact with the readers themselves and therefore agents are expected to identify other areas in which to direct their efforts. Finally, as a result of technological and scientific improvements, the issue is not only about making money. Self-publishing means that an individual assumes a personal responsibility to manage and produce their content which can be effectively achieved through one copy which is kept at home as the sale of many copies online. In other words, self-publishing means that a person recognizes and preserves the content which has value for another person; however, the process does not have to result in earning an income solely. Technological and scientific advancements have also altered the manner in which authors of various items do their work. According to Nietzsche, our writing instruments also work on our thoughts (Carr, 2008). Therefore, Nietzsche acquired a writing ball which compensated for his failed eyesight. This is one instance in which technology changed the manner in which literature works can be presented. The emergence of writing tools and machines has transformed writing to a great extent. Technology has not only changed an individuals styles of writing, but it also has pronunciation on literary establishment entirely. Style can be something that is tangible, but it is built from an individuals words and phrases with academic specialization of stylometry which is intended to its study and elusively associates with the authors unique feel and voice of their prose. With the invention of computers, word processing programs have entirely changed everything. For example, revision has become a considerably easy task. In fact, the difference between composition and revision has completely eroded. For example, today there are writing devices which direct the user through a draft without any stoppage for revision. Word processors have as well found their way to settings and plots in a similar way that typewriters did. Also, literary production circumstances have also changed. For example, in 1983, John Updike dismissed his secretary since he got a word processor (Kirschenbaum, 2014). Apart from style, the sense of the text has also changed due to technological advancement. For example, word processing has enabled writers to grasp manuscripts wholly. Initially, the manuscript was available through search functions. In fact, entire passages could be moved at the users will thereby reordering chapters and sections. The advancement in technology and science has also led to the development of modern literature. There has been an evolution from the gramophone and telegraph to cyberspace and cinema due to technological changes. Each technological breakthrough is accompanied by its changes in literature. Tablet computers, TV and Smartphone have threatened the cultural authority of books thereby shattering the attention or destroying reading. New communication technologies always produce new frameworks that often adjust the appearance of literature i.e. file window, website or even the screen and page. For example, with the help of technology, Walter Benjamin, a commentator, incorporated a technique of rapid intercutting g and jump cuts into a particular form of writing. This was a way in which traffic literature absorbed the film technologies. Concerning art, technology has redefined it in a strange and new ways. Individuals have created works by moving through laser beams or common data that has been gathered from the air pollution. Technology has improvised new ways through which artists express themselves. For instance, the lasers i.e. which are brush strokes, particularly in London one, is known as Assemblance whose design is aimed at encouraging visitors to create light structures and drawings of the floor through the use of colored lasers beams together with smokes. An experience known as Petting Zoo is another favorite digital revolution in the art arena. This involves the snake-like tubes which hung from the ceiling. These tubes may bend move and change colors depending on the way that they have read your sound, movement, and touch. If an individual is simply standing, the tubes will also stand bored. This artwork was developed by Minimaforms which is a design group with the aim of providing a glimpse of future when robots will be capable of reading our moods and react with kindness (Pschera, 2016). The progression of science and technology has also remarkably changed film animation. Several years back, the only way in which an individual would come up with cartoons was hand making frame by frame. However, today many cartoons are made with flash after some software which has interpolation features. In other words, this would mean that an individual doesnt have to draw all the frames for the production of movement illusion. The invention of zoetrope and the current technology has enabled the creation of graphic animation and the evolution of cartoons from 2D to the 3D format and stereoscopic 3D (Adar, Dontcheva, Fogarty Weld, 2008). It is possible to release animated movies across the globe which has become the top-grossing movies over the years. Technological advancement has brought massive changes in this sector, and if a comparison is made between the first cartoon that was made and the current animation, an individual would be convinced that a period is coming when everything would be possible. Technology continuously continues their development, and it has created the movement on a flat screen by making flat images to constantly and rapidly pass on the screen one after the other so that illusion is created. It is possible for a person to catch their favorite cartoons online in their laptops, Smartphone or iPad in high quality due to this technology. Many new cartoons are also made with the 3D software. However, creativity and studies and psychology character definition are required to achieve this. Technology has also improved the difference between modern and classical animated cartoons. For instance, a person who was born in the past century can evidently notice the difference and the unique nature between the old and new cartoons. However, the characters and features of cartoons are almost similar only that those for today are fancy as compared to those for the olden days. Animators and the animation studios continuously combine the latest technological and scientific advances with the naturally born and creative talents to push and raise the levels of possibilities especially to ensure that they come up with the most recent versions of cartoons which are fancier as compared to cartoons of the earlier generations. The final area that has been considerably impacted by the new scientific and technological advancement methodology is writing literary works. Some literary techniques have been improvised to deepen the fiction that an individual has and also to facilitate adequate communication of the intended meaning. The writer is free to use as many techniques as they would want to their literature work as long as they effectively relay their intended information or message. First, there is the use of allegory in which the writer comes up with a story whereby the characters and events bring out a system of symbolic meaning. Symbolism is another technique that can be used in presenting literary work by authors. In this instance, the writer is free to use n action, object, character or word within the story to suggest something but its not its actual dictionary meaning. Irony can also be used, and it has three types. First is verbal irony in which the intended meaning of a statement varies from the actual meaning. It is in most instances referred to as sarcasm. Secondly is the situational irony which occurs when the intended outcome of a particular action is different from the real result. The final type of irony is dramatic. In this case, the audience is more aware of the situation of the character than the characters does. Finally, due to advancement in todays literary works, there is also use of figurative language which creates a meaningful and exciting story. This type of language makes a comparison between different things. The figurative language includes simile, metaphor, personification and hyperbole. The use of figurative language is essential since it gives the audience a clear image of what is being referred to by the performer or the author of an article. This, therefore, makes it easier for the public to synthesize and visualize what the author is talking about. Conclusion It is evident that science and technological advancement has not left out any sector when it comes to its application in various fields. Just like all other areas, art and literary has experienced a vast impact as a result of technological advancements. As the research paper has provided, numerous changes have been noticed especially in the video and film industries. The processes of production, distribution, and exhibition of a video film have substantially improved due to the introduction of CGI which has made it easier to combine many effects easier and more quickly as compared to the initial days. I think that technological advancement is a good thing since it has enhanced innovation and creativity thereby simplifying tasks to be much easier as opposed to olden days when it could take long before completing a particular task. References Adar, E., Dontcheva, M., Fogarty, J., Weld, D. S. (2008, October). Zoetrope: interacting with the ephemeral web. In Proceedings of the 21st annual ACM symposium on User interface software and technology (pp. 239-248). ACM. Carr, N. (2008). Is Google making us stupid? What the Internet is doing to our brains (Vol. 1). July. Garcia, R., Calantone, R. (2002). A critical look at technological innovation typology and innovativeness terminology: a literature review. Journal of product innovation management, 19(2), 110-132. Kirschenbaum, M. (2014). Operating Systems of the Mind: Bibliography After Word Processing (The Example of Updike). The Papers of the Bibliographical Society of America, 108(4), 380-412. Pschera, A. (2016). Animal Internet: Nature and the Digital Revolution. New Vessel Press.

The History of Greek Theater :: Art

The History of Greek Theater Theater and drama in Ancient Greece took form in about 5th century BCE, with the Sopocles, the great writer of tragedy. In his plays and those of the same genre, heroes and the ideals of life were depicted and glorified. It was believed that man should live for honor and fame, his action was courageous and glorious and his life would climax in a great and noble death. Originally, the hero’s recognition was created by selfish behaviors and little thought of service to others. As the Greeks grew toward city-states and colonization, it became the destiny and ambition of the hero to gain honor by serving his city. The second major characteristic of the early Greek world was the supernatural. The two worlds were not separate, as the gods lived in the same world as the men, and they interfered in the men’s lives as they chose to. It was the gods who sent suffering and evil to men. In the plays of Sophocles, the gods brought about the hero’s downfall because of a tragic flaw in the character of the hero. In Greek tragedy, suffering brought knowledge of worldly matters and of the individual. Aristotle attempted to explain how an audience could observe tragic events and still have a pleasurable experience. Aristotle, by searching the works of writers of Greek tragedy, Aeschulus, Euripides and Sophocles (whose Oedipus Rex he considered the finest of all Greek tragedies), arrived at his definition of tragedy. This explanation has a profound influence for more than twenty centuries on those writing tragedies, most significantly Shakespeare. Aristotle’s analysis of tragedy began with a description of the effect such a work had on the audience as a â€Å"catharsis† or purging of the emotions. He decided that catharsis was the purging of two specific emotions, pity and fear. The hero has made a mistake due to ignorance, not because of wickedness or corruption. Aristotle used the word â€Å"hamartia†, which is the â€Å"tragic flaw† or offense committed in ignorance. For example, Oedipus is ignorant of his true parentage when he commits his fatal deed. Oedipus Rex is one of the stories in a three-part myth called the Thebian cycle. The structure of most all Greek tragedies is similar to Oedipus Rex. Such plays are divided in to five parts, the prologue or introduction, the â€Å"prados† or entrance of the chorus, four episode or acts separates from one another by â€Å"stasimons† or choral odes, and â€Å"exodos†, the action after the last stasimon.

Cereal:The Manufacturing Industry :: essays research papers fc

Cereal: The Manufacturing Industry   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Everyday, more than eighty million Americans have some type of cereal for breakfast. Cereal is one of the most popular breakfast foods and some brand is found in almost every home in America (Topher). This vast industry stems from the late 1800s when John Harvey Kellogg and C. W. Post began cereal production in Battle Creek, Michigan (Topher). Today, numerous types and varieties of cereal line the grocery store shelves. However, only a few select companies make every one of those different kinds of cereal.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are four different categories into which economists classify industries. These categories are perfect competition, monopolistic competition, oligopoly, and monopoly. Each of these four categories has its own unique characteristics. Perfect competition has an unlimited number of firms, while a monopoly has one single firm, and an oligopoly consists of a small number of interdependent firms. The demand curve of an oligopoly depends on how firms choose to deal with their interdependence with the other firms in the industry. A firm within an oligopoly market can choose to cooperate with other firms in the industry, which is illegal, or the firm can choose to compete against the other firms. An oligopoly produces either differentiated products or homogenous products. In an oligopolistic market, entry barriers, which prohibit new firms from entering the industry, are present. Examples of entry barriers include patents, brand loyalty and trademarks. Long-run econom ic profits are possible for an oligopoly, and non-price competition is a significant way to compete with other firms in the same market. Most of the non-price competition in an oligopoly comes from product differentiation. The cereal manufacturing industry is an oligopolistic market because it exhibits many of these traits.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  An oligopoly consists of a small number of interdependent firms. The cereal manufacturing industry consists of four different firms that control almost all of the market. These companies are Quaker Oats, Kellogg, Kraft Foods, and General Mills (Lazich 68). In 2001, General Mills and Kellogg led the industry with a market share of 32.2 and 30.7 percent, respectively (68). Kraft Foods had a market share of 16.3 percent and Quaker Oats had a market share of 19.0 percent (68). The remaining 11.8 percent of the market share was held by other firms (68). In 2002, Kellogg took the lead with 32.7 percent followed by General Mills with a 31.8 percent market share (Reyes).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  An oligopoly consists of either differentiated or homogenous products.

Different Cultures Learning Styles Essay

The word culture has been derived from the Latin word â€Å"cultura† which means to cultivate (Online Etymology Dictionary, 2009). Generally it refers to the manners, norms, values, knowledge, attitudes, art, habits and behavioral practices that are preferred and chosen as ideal by majority of the people of the society. With the encroachment and progress in the hi-tech world of today, different cultures across the globe have rapidly undergone the process of acculturation. Thus, learning of diverse cultures around the globe is not a big issue. There are various styles by which one can easily get versed with the multitude of cultures. Some of the styles are as follows. Worldly classroom set up If we have a look at different traditional classrooms of different countries, as well as different classrooms in various cities within one country; we will witness that a number of similarities and differences exist. There are some common factors like discipline, teaching atmosphere, syllabus, curriculum, learning, traditional teaching tools and classroom sitting style; that are common to all classrooms in any part of the world. The difference comes in the degree of effectiveness in teaching, learning, resource input, extra facilities like heating and cooling system, comfortable sitting arrangements and provision of latest technology etc. These factors definitely contribute to creating differences in the scale of learning among the students. Traditional Classrooms around the world Another very popular and effective style of learning culture is the traditional classrooms around the world. Traditional classroom tends to favor cultural learning to its fullest. It is one of the best places where students can interact for a long duration and learn different regional cultural aspects with the passage of time. Interaction of young students with their fellow age group students and teacher with the students definitely promotes broadening of cultural patterns. These written and unwritten rules, which we call culture, consciously or unconsciously, affect people around us. Students at an early young age being quick observers and imitators are swift in picking, absorbing and following various cultural traits and values. Thus, classroom either at primary, secondary or higher level plays a vital role in learning one’s own as well as other cultures prevailing around us. Today’s American culture verses others If we look into different cultures prevailing across the globe, we see impressions of American culture on rest of the world; reason being advanced technological development. America has played a vital role in diffusing its cultural traits to other cultures. Whether it is progressivism, technology, living patterns, habits, music, entertainment and even mind sets of the people; American influence is clearly visible. Nevertheless, many of the traditional and deeply embedded cultures like Islamic, Chinese, Japanese, Indian and Greek cultures still are maintaining their identity, and have truly preserved their norms and values to a great extent. CUSTOMS AND COURTEOUS Taboo of learning in world cultures Every culture in every society observes certain taboos and manners. There are certain issues and topics that are considered forbidden in some cultures like restrictions on sexual activities and relationships, restriction on various diets, incest taboos, exposure of body parts, social-economic class, medical disorders and diseases, alcoholism, depression and divorce. Taboos vary from culture to culture; a taboo in one culture might not be a taboo in another. These taboos are learnt via culture and transmitted to generations. Adapting in different societies Adaptation level of culture and manners varies from society to society. There are various factors like education, technological advancements, public awareness, and values among the old generation that play their role in the adaptation of the culture. Researches have shown that technological advance societies have greater tendency to accept change and modifications as compared to the traditional backward societies (Whitehead, 2005). Learning styles in different communities Learning styles also vary from society to society. For example some societies are seen under great influence of electronic media like TV, radio, and internet. Where as some get inspiration from print material, poetry, literature, newspapers, and classrooms. In illiterate societies people have their leaders, teachers, religious scholars, parents and grandparents as a source of learning. TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASS ROOM The progress of classroom learning Importance of the traditional classroom learning can never be ignored in any society, thus with the advancement in technology, teaching as well as learning has now become a trouble-free chore. Gone are the days when teachers just used to use simple black board for communication. Progress in the classroom learning can easily witnessed with the use of tools like multimedia, overhead projector, computer, audio and video tapes etc (Integrated Publishing). Many Audio Visual aids are available to teachers so they can perform their job quite comfortably. Making use of virtual class rooms has facilitated the teachers in loads. It saves a lot resources and time when the instructor and learner communicate from their locations. It further promotes distant learning, and makes the learning process enjoyable and reasonably priced (Integrated Publishing). Degrees pertaining to technology A lot of degrees that are related to technology are being offered these days. Computer science, instructional technology degree, technology in distance education, diplomas in virtual education, teleconferencing courses etc are definitely rewarding degrees in today’s modern day. Well advanced students with technologies today The amalgamation of Internet with the latest technological aids has played a vital role in enhancing the learning process among the students. Utilization of technology has no doubt drastically brought several changes in the learning of the individuals. Teleconferencing, virtual universities, online degrees and distance learning have very well equipped the students with latest tools and techniques (Conner, 2006). Moreover it provided the students with an opportunity to interact with a number of qualified teachers and students from within their homes. Several chat rooms, discussion forums are available in order to facilitate the students in broadening their views and thinking. We can safely say that well advanced students are equipped with latest technology today (Conner, 2006). POST SECONDARY LEARNING AROUND THE GLOBE Education in America Generally it is believed that education in America provides chances and corridors to achievement. Post secondary educational learning in American society carries great value and importance, as it contributes to the social, economic, cultural, political, mental and visual development of the nation. It therefore focuses on the expansion of critical thinking, promotion of exploration and research, problem solving, developing insight, adopting skills and proficiency among the youth. So that nation could be gifted with highly professional, mobile, innovative and productive individuals at higher levels. Education in Japan If we look into the post secondary educational learning in Japan, we observe that the aims and objectives prevailing are not much different from those prevailing in America. Both being highly advanced and developed countries, more or less focus on similar learning methods. Impacts of European methods of learning are also visible. However, along with similarities, Japanese educational learning system does have some uniqueness as well, like the Special course schools are similar to non-university education in US. Education in Australia An influx of migrants from more than 100 countries, Australia is basically a British-European society. In earlier times post secondary education meant university education. Main aim behind the post secondary education is the development of mental power (intellect), university should be the center of professional training of students. Along with this, in order to cope with the latest trends it is indispensable to inculcate in students such abilities that will help them to become experts in a specific field of study, put out their best and add to the relevant work in their field. It too has influences of British and American educational learning on it. Conclusion In today’s society, there are a multitude of different cultures. In this paper you will learn about the different types of learning styles around the world. You will also be able to understand the different how technology has greatly improved learning and how different regions of the world have different technologies used for learning. References Conner, M. L. (2006). Introduction to a e-Learning Culture. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from Ageless Learner: http://agelesslearner. com/intros/elc. html Integrated Publishing. (n. d. ). THE SELECTION AND USE OF AUDIOVISUAL (AV) AIDS. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from Integrated Publishing: http://www. tpub. com/content/religion/14229/css/14229_324. htm National Governor’s Association. (2007). Innovation America. A compact for Postsecondary Education . National Governor’s Association. Online Etymology Dictionary. (2009). Retrieved July 22, 2009, from Online Etymology Dictionary: http://www. etymonline. com/index. php? search=culture&searchmode=none Whitehead, B. (2005, Oct 24). Educational technology allows for flexibility in learning and teaching. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from web-conferencing-zone. com: http://www. web-conferencing-zone. com/4030-educational-technology. htm

Freud’s Psychoanalysis in Art: Frida Kahlo’s Surrealism

One of the most influential social scientists of his time, Sigmund Freud and his theories on psychoanalysis remains relevant today in the study of human personality and the influence of the subconscious on human thinking and behavior.Freud’s ideas on the significance of dreams, which was seen by him as the expression of human being’s innermost desire, were in fact borrowed by artists ascribing to surrealism who sought to imprint the subconscious. Surrealist paintings are thus characterized with the use of symbols and often have a dreamlike quality to them, where cannot always be taken at face value or by literal translation.It is no wonder then that Freud’s ideas have been widely used in the interpretation of works of art or even of character sketches. Freud’s theory on how personalities are developed which revolves around the main ideas of id, ego, and superego, have, for instance, been used to explain how sex and libido may be transformed into other form s of energies, or how particularly traumatic life events may have a negative effect on both adults and children when not properly processed.Likewise, Freud’s ideas of sexual repression and displacement were influential in the growth and development of the surrealist school, which drew on the rich imagery of one’s dreams, wishes, and fantasies to create their art. (West 185)One of the most notable surrealist painters, Frida Kahlo, has been a classic example of an artist whose works could be interpreted using Freudian concepts and ideas. Kahlo’s tumultuous life, characterized by wild sexual affairs with both male and female lovers, a devastating divorce, and her inability to conceive children due to a series of back operations were mostly found in the bulk of her work which were fraught with symbolisms. (West 185)In her painting entitled Self Portrait with a Necklace, Kahlo painted herself wearing a necklace of thorns and a dangling humming bird, which alludes to her suffering from divorce (as symbolized by the thorns) and to her quest for new love (as shown by the humming bird which is a traditional Mexican love amulet). (Erickson, 2005). In these self portraits,Kahlo’s entire life was depicted in her paintings. She drew her own birth, for instance, and many other events including those connected with her pain and frustration. (Levine 273) Her husband Diego Rivera was also depicted in many of her paintings in different ways: in Frida and Diego Rivera (1931) which is supposed to be a painting of their marriage, she paints him as a father-figure and herself as his daughter, which is reminiscent of Freud’s Electra complex and reveals Kahlo’s insecurity at her own husband’s authority.In another painting Retablo (1943), she captures the scene of the accident that left her under intense pain for most of her life (Kahlo and Kettenman 32) which she later depicts in Broken Column (1944) that â€Å"graphically expresses h er physical agony.† (West 184)Psychoanalysis therefore plays an important role in understanding and unlocking many surrealist artwork. In Kahlo’s case, the artist has rendered her own physical suffering in the metaphoric sense, mostly through the use of portraiture, to something that is haunting and beautiful, and one which outlasts even the pain and suffering of Kahlo’s troubled soul.Works Cited:Erickson, R. (2005). Freudian thought and the surrealist world. Downloaded from Associated Content, The People’s Media Company on March 16, 2007 Kahlo, F. & A. Kettenman. (2000). Frida Kahlo 1907-1954: Pain and Passion. Taschen.Levine, M. P. (2000). Analytic Freud: Philosophy and Psychoanalysis. United Kingdom: Routledge.West, S. (2004). Portraiture. United Kingdom: Oxford University Press.   

Love, Power, and Romeo and Juliet Essay

The play Romeo and Juliet is a classic tale of friendship, love, betrayal, comedy, tragedy, and death. I t was written by William Shakespeare in and is considered one of his greatest tragedies. It has many different renditions and has been translated into many different languages. In the play â€Å"Romeo and Juliet† two young ambitious lovers put themselves in situations that would inevitably lead to their deaths. Was Romeo to blame or perhaps Juliet? Maybe the blame can be put on true love that would lead them to do certain things that were forbidden during those times. In the relationship between Romeo and Juliet many questions are formed within my mind such as who had more power in the relationship between Romeo and Juliet, was it Romeo, was it Juliet, or was it the Love between them. Perhaps gender played a role in who had more power in the relationship. In this paper I intend on exploring the answers to these questions that are lingering in my mind. Throughout the play Juliet increasingly showed her power over Romeo, even though in those days, it was customary for men to show their power and dominance over women, this was not the case in this play. This could have been because William Shakespeare was married and had daughters. The first instance that Juliet shows her indirect power over Romeo was the very moment Romeo laid his eyes upon her. In scene one, act five Romeo says to a servingman, â€Å"What ladies that which doth enrich the hand of yonder knight†, â€Å"Oh she doth teach the torch to burn bright! It seems she hangs upon the check of night as a rich jewel in an Ethiop’s ear beauty too rich for us, for earth to dear! † This show power because earlier that day Romeo was mopping around crying about another young lady named Rosaline. When he saw Juliet he completely forgot who Rosaline even was and went out of his way to talk to Juliet even though she was part of the family that his family was in a feud with. Power was also exhibited by Juliet because Romeo was so infatuated with her that he stood outside her window and talked about her like she was the sun in the sky herself even though he could have been killed for it. Another exhibit of power was when Marcutio and Tybalt fought and the end result was Marcutio being killed by Tybalt and Romeo killing Tybalt and then being banished from Verona by the king. All his happened because of the love between Romeo and Juliet. Another instance of Juliet’s power was when she unintentionally got the Prince and Romeo to fight to the death over her, even though she was not really dead. The result of this battle, ended in the Prince’s death. The next instance of Juliet’s power was at the end of the play when Romeo was so incredibly distraught over his lov ers’ alleged demise that he purchased a vial of poison brewed by an apothecary to kill himself. After Romeo Kills Paris he lies down next to his beautiful Juliet and consumes the vial of poison so he can be with his lover once again. In the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, Romeo also exhibits power. In the balcony scene between the two star- crossed lovers when the famous Romeo, Romeo where forth art thou Romeo speech Romeo tells Juliet that he wants to be with him. They both know that their love is forbidden, but Romeo convinces Juliet that they should run away out of Verona to get married and make beautiful love children. This shows power because they could have been banished or even killed because they could have caused the families to go to war and the kind already declared if they fought again they could been punished with death. Romeo also show his power when in the end of the play Romeo see Juliet dead and drink the poison to kill himself, Juliet awakes to see her lover dead his power over her was so strong that she tried to kiss his lips in hopes of getting the poison into her system so she could be with her lover. When they plan failed she took Romeo’s dagger and plunged it into her own heart killing herself instantly. If that is power over someone I don’t know what is. The last Object that could have been seen as having power over the relationship between Romeo and Juliet was the Friar. He was somewhat of a corky guy who brewed up remedies and was a good friend of Romeo and Juliet. He tried his best throughout the play to get the two lovers together and we all know how that turned out. The first instance of the friar showing his power over Romeo and Juliet’s relationship was when the two came to him for advice he came up with a plan to get the both out of the city and marry the two. Juliet was supposed to take a potion that the friar had concocted which was to make her seem if she had died but she would merely be a sleep. The family would bury her and she would wake up several hours later and meet up with her lover. He writes to Romeo to let him know what the plan is but the letter never makes it to Romeo so he doesn’t know Juliet isn’t really dead. Then all the bad stuff happens and everyone dies. So yes the friar did have some sort of power over the relationship between Romeo and Juliet but it wasn’t good power at all. In conclusion Love will make you do some stupid things. Love is very powerful whether experienced by a man or woman, it can make you do some strange things. The story was a good one and Power over people can definitely be a bad thing, as you can see in Romeo and Juliet.

Experiencing the Schizophrenia of Christianity Essay

â€Å"The religion of the future will be a cosmic religion,† asserts Albert Einstein. â€Å"It should transcend a personal god and avoid dogmas and theology. Covering both the natural and the spiritual, it should be based on a religious sense arising from the experience of all things, natural and spiritual and a meaningful unity. Buddhism answers this description. If there is any religion that would cope with modern scientific needs, it would be Buddhism. † While other physicists and mathematicians love Lao Tzu’s Taoism, most Chinese embrace both and add Confucianism. For thousands of years, these have been the three philosophies of China. While Judaism, Islam and Christianity also made its way to China, these religions did not bear as much fruit because of their schizophrenic nature. Unfortunately, many in the West still suffer from â€Å"split minds† due to Christian indoctrination. There are many factual stories in the news today about the Christian crisis, but fiction writers also have their own adaptations or interpretations of these stories. For instance, in the short story Sixty-five Million Years, Father Hennessey portrays the schizophrenia of Christian clergymen and Christianity in general. Father Hennessey is the main character or protagonist of the story. He â€Å"found himself lured into a kind of salacious appetite for some of the things he was privy to; there were sins his parishioners confessed that seemed nearly attractive to him, not as temptations, but as something close to entertainment, amusement. † He became obsessed with the sexual confessions of Mr. Graham, â€Å"the most popular teacher in the local high school, who taught math along with science. † Graham is also â€Å"kindly, softhearted, resourceful, passionate about his work, a dedicated and devoted educator. † But he is childless with his wife of 25 years, a woman who is â€Å"several years older† than him. After a 15-year old girl, a remedial math student, came to see him regularly, he started to experience sleepless nights with â€Å"sexual tension. † He keeps seeing himself â€Å"reach for her. † She waits for him â€Å"to tell her the answer to a problem,† but he â€Å"can’t do it because† he has â€Å"to use all† his â€Å"mental resources to keep from grabbing her and trying to kiss her and begging her to let† him â€Å"have her. † Father Hennessey finds Graham’s mental anguish â€Å"entertaining,† and Hennessey, in the beginning, always looks forward to Confessionals with Graham. He â€Å"was guiltily aware that this was because of the strange absorption that had taken hold of him concerning the details of the story. † There came a point that it preoccupied his mind so much that he couldn’t administer mass properly anymore. He also couldn’t listen attentively to other confessions since Graham’s story always distracted his mind. There is also a 15-year old boy who regularly confesses to Hennessey. He has â€Å"close-cut blond hair† with a â€Å"crooked nose† and â€Å"a round head. † He also suffers from Rheumatoid Arthritis, spending much time in bed, reading books, as a result of his condition. His condition also resulted in fingers that â€Å"were knotted and curved slightly with the arthritis,† but they were â€Å"beautiful†¦in their strange variance from the hands one expected a fifteen-year-old boy to have. † Hennessey finds out much later that he is the twin brother of Graham’s obsession. Their mother is mentally ill and has been confined in the hospital since their father left them. The twin siblings have been living by themselves at home without any supervision. The young boy’s mentally-ill mother keeps asking the boy numerous doubting questions about God, so he goes to Father Hennessey for the answers. But he fails to answer them. â€Å"Father,† the boy asks during a confessional with Hennessey, â€Å"the dinosaurs lived here for millions of years. We’ve only been here for a little fraction of a second in terms of evolution. What was God thinking? † The boy explains that the Bible is ignorant of dinosaurs. â€Å"Saint Peter didn’t know about the dinosaurs, Father,† he says. But Hennessey doesn’t take him too seriously. He feels that â€Å"the boy might be less than sincere, and that this was all at his expense. † But the young boy is persistent. He visits Hennessey regularly at his confession booth; Hennessey not knowing that he is the twin-brother of Graham’s obsession. The boy even calls up Hennessey’s housekeeper to ask about the priest’s character or behavior, which the boy seriously doubts. Unfortunately, Father Hennessey fails to help Graham and the young boy. Instead of healing the mental illness or perversion of Graham, he makes it worse. Instead of answering the questions of the boy correctly, he gives a stock answer—faith. â€Å"There is no perfect answer, son,† Hennessey says, â€Å"except faith. † He considers them as forms of entertainment like watching interactive television. Hence, he makes both of their lives worse. Graham becomes perverted with his student, committing adultery with her multiple times, even on campus, where they are caught in the gymnasium equipment cabinet, and he is terminated from work. He also ends up in jail for contributing to juvenile delinquency and loses his career. The young boy couldn’t help his mother who is mentally ill, and in turn, the mother couldn’t help her daughter, who ends up with a sexual relationship with Graham. Father Hennessey had internal conflicts that split his mind or made him somewhat schizophrenic. Consequently, he also failed himself. One night, he was very troubled, and â€Å"What disturbed him most that night was that he had gone through everything in these last few weeks only in terms of himself. † He also â€Å"began to wonder if he were not becoming unhinged. † These problems are actually consequences or reflections of much more serious problems in the Catholic Church. Sometimes, it isn’t Graham or the young boy who develop such problems; it is the priest himself who develops sexual relationships with parishioners. Sometimes they rape them or molest them, as the thousands of cases broadcasted in recent television news reports. That’s why many Americans are now turning to Asian philosophies such as Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism which are in harmony with science and psychology, unlike Christianity which is in conflict with science. â€Å"For a parallel to the lesson of atomic theory,† asserts Niels Bohr, a Nobel-prize physicist acclaimed for the Bohr model of the atom and his contributions to Quantum Mechanics, â€Å"†¦(we should study) those kinds of epistemological problems with which already thinkers like the Buddha and Lao Tzu have been confronted, when trying to harmonize our position as spectators and actors in the great drama of existence. † This is the answer that both the boy and Graham were seeking from Father Hennessey. The elementary questions that the boy asked can all be answered by the three philosophies of China easily. The boy wanted to reconcile science with religion. He needed answers to scientific questions that contradicted the Bible or showed its ignorance. Graham would have had a clear answer from a Buddhist too. Although he visited Hennessey to confess his sexual perversions, he was really seeking a solution to his illness or his obsessive compulsions. He wanted to heal it or get rid of it, along with the suffering that he was experiencing. Buddha’s First Noble Truth asserts that life is dukkha—impermanent, uncomfortable, sometimes even painful and deadly, like riding a wooden cart with uneven wheels or hearing a screeching uneven potter’s wheel turn. Lao Tzu explains that the bumpy cycles of life, moving up and down, are the result of natural forces in the universe, which are now understood partly by physicists as gravity, space and time. It creates polarities in everything—male-female, good-bad, day-night, up-down, mania-depression, life-death, white-black, desire-aversion, happiness-sadness, economic boom-busts and so forth—with infinite degrees in magnitude, along with multiple combinations in proportions. The Chinese call this Yang and Yin, respectively. The Second Noble Truth then asserts that dukkha or the impermanent cycle of suffering is caused by the physical existence of Yin and Yang, such as Graham’s aversion and desire, as stated in Rodney St. Michael’s book Sync My World. Consequently, the Third Noble Truth then says that to manage dukkha, one must â€Å"extinguish† the polarities of Yin and Yang, or in Graham’s case, aversion and desire. Finally, the Fourth Noble Truth asserts that to â€Å"extinguish† these polarities, one must follow the Middle Way or the Eightfold Noble Path. To make a long story short, one of the eight guidelines in this path is meditation. Desire and aversion, for example, are caused by imbalanced hormones and neurotransmitters. By practicing breath meditation daily, Graham could biologically alter his brain chemistry to neutralize the imbalance in his system. There are also many other suggestions that a Buddhist could give to Graham, such as what to think when desires start burning him. Buddhists would also explain to him the concept of karma, or the principle of cause and effect, which explains all the possible consequences of ignoring his problem. As for the young teenager, Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching, explains that the â€Å"force,† acting as God or nature, creates everything in polarities such that some are monstrous dinosaurs and some are cute lambs. Some are carnivores and some are herbivores. Everything lives and dies and goes around in a cycle. People should never expect anything to last, whether it be marriage (which normally only lasts 10 years), jobs, prosperity, happiness or anything good. Incorrect expectations cause mental anguish, but managed expectations produce relative stability. One must realize also that the darkest period of night is the time just before sunrise, so any bad situation will eventually turn good, even if death itself has to trigger it. In the end, while Hennessey failed, his experience changed him: â€Å"He stood in the shadow of the church, and looked up. It was a building; he had a moment of being frightfully aware of it as mere stone, the work of human hands, stone and brick and mortar and wood. † He became aware or enlightened of the fact that the Roman Catholic Church is mortal. It is not the divine house of God. He is not a divine worker. There is nothing supernatural in what he is doing. He’s just human. The doubt of the boy made him doubt himself and the Church. But now he has the chance to change everything. And slowly but surely, America is also realizing that they now have a chance to do the same. Works Cited Bausch, Richard, â€Å"Sixty-five Million Years. † NarrativeMagazine. com. St. Michael, Rodney. (Including citations from Einstein and Bohr). Sync My World: Thief’s Honor GA SK. Raleigh: Lulu, 2009.