IT Project Management Approaches Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

IT Project Management Approaches - Coursework Example It narrows down from the above two and looks at some of the specific applications in the information Technology field by looking at the Software development life cycle approach that is part of the traditional approach. It goes further in the agile approach to look at specific applications of the approach to the field of information technology. The paper also compares the two approaches by looking at their strengths and weaknesses and the type of projects to which they can be used/ applied and why they will or will not work. 1. The traditional/phased approach to project management The traditional approach to project management involves very well-organized and deliberate planning and control methods. In this approach there are distinct project life cycle stages or phases which are easily recognizable as one leads directly to another. Tasks are completed in in an orderly sequence, one after the other and this necessitates that a significant part of the entire project is planned before t he process begins (Hass, 2007,pp1-8). This model assumes that all events affecting the entire project are predictable and that the tools and the tasks undertaken by each individual are well understood. With this approach it assumes that once a phase is complete it will not be revisited, which is not the case for many projects especially IT projects. This model is forms the basis for the phased methodology used in many projects. The approach has taken many dimensions especially in the field of information technology with various sub models coming up from this traditional/phased model (Hass, 2007,pp1-8). The advantage of this approach is that it sets out the phases for development and stresses the importance of requirements for each stage. On the other hand the limitation is that projects rarely follow the sequential flow and many stakeholders find it difficult to define all the requirements for a project at the beginning(Hass, 2007,pp1-8). The approach has the following distinct stag es: initiation, planning and design, execution and construction, monitoring and controlling systems and finally the completion stage. It is important to note that not all projects will go through all the stages mentioned above some may be terminated before they get to the completion stage. 1.1. The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) In information technology projects, this phased approach can be compared to the software development life cycle approach (SDLC). This approach is composed of the following distinct stages that must be followed to come up with working software: planning, requirements definition, design, development, integration and testing and finally installation and acceptance (Radack, 2009, pp1-7). The planning stage aims at establishing a bird’s eye view of the proposed software product and uses this to form the basic project organization, assess feasibility and risks associated with the project and define suitable management and technical approaches. The m ost critical part concerning this stage is the listing of goals of the project and this is done before anything else (Radack, 2009, pp1-7). The requirement definition stage begins immediately the goals in the planning stage are identified. Each of these goals is then refined into a set of requirements which define the major functions of the proposed application and also define the initial data entities.

Direct Service Staff Turnover in Supported Living Arrangements Essay

Direct Service Staff Turnover in Supported Living Arrangements - Essay Example There were not any of the agencies that collected data on the number of workers that served Montana's disability population. However, employees are derived from workers performing various occupations: social and human service assistants, home health aides, nursing aides, orderlies and attendants, physical therapy aides, and home care aides. The turnover rate is also contributed to the following: voluntary quits, terminations, promotions, uncontrollable events, and layoffs. Several other factors contributed to the high turnover as well: lack of management and/or coworker support, inadequate wages and/or benefits, inadequate training for handling challenging situations, poor working conditions (stress, ambiguous roles, inadequate consumer care), lack of career advancement opportunities, and other factors (risk of injury, fear of liability lawsuits, etc.). Hatton, C., Emerson, E., Rivers, M., et al. (2001). Factors associated with intended staff turnover and job search behavior in services for people with intellectual disability. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 45, 258-270. Zeynep Ton and Robert S. Huckman examined the employee turnover rate and its association with operating performance. Most retailers do operate with high levels of employee turnover. Thus, the focus of the research study is a major retail chain. Ton and Huckman surveyed several factors within the retai... Larson, S. A. & Lakin, K. C. (1999). Longitudinal study of recruitment and retention in small community homes supporting persons with developmental disabilities. Mental Retardation, 40, 267-280. "Managing the Impact of Employee Turnover on Performance: The Role of Process Conformance" Zeynep Ton and Robert S. Huckman examined the employee turnover rate and its association with operating performance. Most retailers do operate with high levels of employee turnover. Thus, the focus of the research study is a major retail chain. Ton and Huckman surveyed several factors within the retail chain. Does the high employee turnover rate affect the overall job performance Is employee turnover voluntary Is it caused by decreased job performance The study found that the high employee turnover rate did not ultimately affect the overall job performance. Actually, the increased motivation and ideas that new employees bring to the chain are good. On the other hand, employee turnover is, often times, voluntary and contributes to the decreased job performance of a chain. However, employee turnover does not affect chains in which employees are conforming to the rules of the chain as much as chains in which employees are not conforming. The performance of the chain is affected more negative in chains where employees are not conforming to the rules of the chain. The overall result of the survey was that the high turnover rate is associated with the decreased job performance at a chain. Managers of the chains that have the high turnover rate of employees could decrease the turnover by imposing the rules of the chain in a more disciplinary way. Robert S. Huckman, Harvard University and NBER, and Zeynep Ton, Harvard University, March

Examining The Study Of Rational Choice Theories Criminology Essay

Examining The Study Of Rational Choice Theories Criminology Essay Within the Criminal Justice field, the goal is to reduce crime by utilizing methods that may deter offenders from committing a heinous act. The aspects that are going to be explored in this manuscript will explain how Rational Choice Theory and crime prevention techniques refer to one another. Situational Crime Prevention (SCP) techniques will focus on different types of offenders, their crimes and the success rate of prevention in different levels of criminal activity. Furthermore, some case studies have been reviewed to give a comparison of preventive techniques of crime and its effects. The following research will discuss negative effects and its alarming concern for SCP techniques. Examining the study of rational choice theories and how useful it can be in crime prevention Academic Scholars, along with law enforcement officials review criminal activity in the event to develop methods for which crime may be prevented. Having an understanding of the theory reviewed will further explain the approach investigators take when apprehending perpetrators, interviewing witnesses, and interacting with victims. The research will explore many different views of scholars and the differences in crimes that can be committed. The theory that has been discussed is Rational Choice Theory. Rational Choice Theory is a perspective that criminality is a conscience choice that predicts that individuals choose to commit crime for the sole purpose of the benefits outweighing the cost of the crime (Schmalleger, 2006). This manuscript will provide information on the examination of Situational Crime Prevention (SCP) and how the examples of the methods given have been successful. Literature Review Verma (2007) wrote an article that discusses the approach of situational crime prevention and how it pertains to mass casualties. His article, with assistance of I.K. Mackenzie (1982) recommends a five stage action plan that may dissolve mass casualties before they start (to be discussed later). Verma argues that enforcement officials should work harder on strategies to better leadership skills in the event of a riot. Vance and Trani (2008) focus on crime prevent in white collar crimes. Many individuals in our society believe that white collar crime is not as heinous an act as other crimes. The issue Vance and Trani want to address is that white collar can be a larger issue if overlooked. Schmalleger (2006) is one of the many scholars who have developed books on criminology and its success in educating future scholars. He introduced to other scholars what situational Crime Prevention (SCP) truly means and how understanding crime better could assist in understanding the criminals. The debate that Schmalleger has with other scholars is the difficulty in which criminals are subject to become repeat offenders. Cullen and Agnew (2006) comprised a reading text called Criminological theory: past to present, 3rd edition. It discusses the comparison made by Clarke and Cornish of classical theory and economic theory and the strong connection these theories have to rational choice theory. Furthermore, the text continues to process this choice by defining two major stages that are important to know about rational choice theory. Ratcliffe (2006) developed a manuscript on video surveillance in public places that may deter criminal activity; in which he provided information about a closed circuit television (CCTV) surveillance system. He explains what CCTV is and how it was developed to prevent crime and also how the development of this system brought unintended consequences. A chart, established by Clarke outlined 25 techniques (Center for Problem Oriented Policing, 2010) that may be useful in the SCP theory. The chart is broken down into five categories and examines different parts of criminal activity. Clarke further breaks down the categories into subsections to explain the techniques correctly in accordance with the category. Several other studies have been reviewed and analyzed to provide information or examples of Clarke ¿Ã‚ ½s SCP techniques (Center for Problem Oriented Policing, 2010). The crimes that will be incorporated with this study in further depth are the security needs of passenger on public transportation (Smith, 2008), closing off opportunities for crime with alley-gating (Bowers, Johnson, and Hirschfield, 2004), and crime in libraries incorporating all five of Clarke ¿Ã‚ ½s SCP techniques (Cromwell, Alexander, and Dotson, 2008). For the entire criteria of Clarke ¿Ã‚ ½s 25 techniques, see Appendix A. Discussion There are many different ways to explain Rational Choice theory and how it is incorporated to Situational Crime Prevention (SCP). Schmalleger (2006) defined SCP as a social policy that looked to develop a greater understanding of crime and with strategies concerning the organizational and environments that make crime possible. Other academic scholars go on to state that Rational Choice Theory is a choice process that occurs in two stages; First, the criminal will need to decide if he wants to engage in crime to satisfy his needs and second is when the decision is made to engage in criminal activity, what particular offense will he commit (Cullen, and Agnew, 2006). However, the best or most innovative explanation was developed by Clarke with his twenty-five techniques of situational crime prevention (Vance and Trani, 2008). The techniques in the chart give examples of SCP and how each category and sub sections apply to a criminal act. The categories of the chart are divided in to five groups, which are: increase the effort. Increase the risk, reduce the rewards, reduce provocations, and remove excuses. This manuscripts main focus is to discuss the two categories that are connected to rational choice theory and situational crime prevention. The first category happens to be increasing the efforts, which has a subsection of target hardening and deflecting offenders and the second category is increasing the risks, which has a subsection of extend guardianship and strengthening formal surveillance. Increase the Effort The Situational Crime Prevention (SCP) subsection category of deflecting the offender is applied by creating a separation for men and women in public surroundings, which in turn does not give offenders the opportunity to create a  ¿Ã‚ ½hot spot ¿Ã‚ ½ for their victims (Innes, 2003). For example, most sex offenders have a tendency to victimize certain women that appear to be vulnerable or less aggressive then they are. There was a study performed on several sex offenders and the process they go through in order to hunt their victims. The study discussed the rational choice the perpetrators make so that the outcome of the assault gives them pleasure. The starting point of the crime is where the offenders seek to benefit themselves by their criminal behavior; that this involves the making of decisions and of choices, however rudimentary on occasion these processes might be; and that these processes exhibit a measure of rationality (Beauregard, Rossmo, and Proulx, 2007). The separation that has been made for men and women in public places are the development of men and women restrooms and changing areas in department stores. With these adjustments, crime in public still occur but committing assault is in public would appear to be more difficult and offenders would have to make more of an effort to assault their victims. Everyone in America can remember what they were doing or where they were at the time of the September 11 attacks. Since the attack, transportation in this country and around the world has experienced some form of target hardening. When a passenger steps into an airport, bus or train station, the passenger is checked almost from head to toe. This policy is more abundant in airports but in major cities, passengers on a train or bus are still checked in an attempt to prevent another major attack since 9/11. There was an article by M. J. Smith (2008) that addressed the needs of women passengers taking public transportation. Smith goes on to address four key elements for analyzing the security need of women passenger, and they are: (1) women ¿Ã‚ ½s reported victimization, (2) issues related to calculating the risk of being a crime victim, (3) the rationality of women ¿Ã‚ ½s fear of crime and disorder, and (4) the need for effective and comprehensive crime prevention measures to address those security-related issues. These concerns and policies have made transportation more equipped with metal detectors, more uniformed and plain clothes officer stationed in subways, airports, and train stations, along with additional baggage tagging and inspections. Increase the Risks Strengthening the observations of society may help in preventing individuals from becoming a victim. For example, many crimes happen during the holiday season and for good reason because individuals get wrapped up in the three P ¿Ã‚ ½s, which are: presents, parties, and planning. Families are planning to go on vacations for the holiday season, friends are picking out outfits for all the parties they will be attending and presents will be exchanged among co-workers before the end of business day. The crimes that are more common during the holiday season are burglary and theft. Kane (2008) suggest that being aware of your surrounding and recognizing motivated offenders will help prevent individuals from becoming a victim during the holiday season. That does not mean taking matters into your own hands; it means to practice being alert when out enjoying the festivities of the holidays. One way to being more alert is to ask a neighbor or a friend to house sit for you while you are off on vacation. You can direct this individual to check on your house once a day or every other day in order to give off the impression that someone is home. If you live in a community with police patrol, you can ask for the officer or security to check on your home in your absence. Or you can develop a form of prevention that closes off opportunities for crime. Bowers, Johnson, and Hirschfield (2004) studied a recently introduced prevention technique in Great Britain that involved fitting a gate to several alleyways along the back of terraced properties to restrict access to local residents and reduce the offender ¿Ã‚ ½s opportunity to commit a crime. The study was performed on homes that were narrow in space and could be connected to other dwellings for the purpose of the experiment. The alley-gates could secure an entire block and all the houses within this radius. The gate will be a ccessible with a key for which only the residents will have and there will be a limit to the number each household can acquire. This study demonstrated that a small gated community had reduced its burglary attempts in comparison to communities that were not gated. Video surveillance is one way police can deter offenders from committing crimes. By upgrading the performance of surveillance, it is less likely that a criminal will want to commit a crime because of the risk of apprehension. When using the method of strengthening surveillance, one of the most employed surveillance technologies is closed-circuit television (CCTV). CCTV is a number of cameras connected to a loop or closed circuit, with images produced being sent to a monitoring station (Ratcliffe, 2006). Using this type of surveillance is predominately for large groups of people that congregate in areas that are too wide for regular patrol. For example, college ¿Ã‚ ½s campuses, sports arenas, department stores and major club venues are the kinds of establishments that CCTV systems are employed. The cameras are placed in locations that may be more prone for criminal activity which will allow the individual operating the camera access to see what the actual crime has or will be committed. There has even been an incident or two where the individual operating the cameras has given a warning to other individuals making them aware that they can be seen committing some type of foul play on camera. The primary g oal of utilizing video surveillance is to increase the perceived risk of capture in the hope that any measure of the offenders improprieties will have them reconsidering to commit a crime (Ratcliffe, 2006). SCP Application Among the Situational Crime Prevention (SCP) examples stated above, there have been several other studies that represented SCP and its effects on the prevention of crime. One study discussed the situational crime prevention approach when dealing with mass causalities or riots. This research suggested that riots could be prevented by aligning practical guidelines and theoretical considerations by a recommended five-stage action plan. The stages incorporated are: (1) attempt to identify, isolate and remove those individuals who precipitate the incident before the crowd begins to organize, (2) break the crowd into smaller groups to disrupt communications, (3) quickly deal with the crowds leaders and remove from the spot, (4) create diversions in other places, so there is no focus, and (5) do not let the crowd gain strength in numbers (Verma, 2007). In the article, Crime and Incivilities in Libraries, Clarke ¿Ã‚ ½s five SCP techniques are explored and further examined to uncover how crimes such as theft, vandalism, and assault have reared its head into the library. Cromwell, Alexander, and Dotson (2008) conclude that the crimes mentioned above, along with problems with disruptive patrons can be substantially reduced by the implementation of SCP strategies and a well-conceived security plan for staff training. The research discussed more incivilities that could occur while at or in a library, however they were not addressed in this manuscript. Unintended Consequences With any research or study, there are concerns that are discussed that will possibly bring about some negativity towards any technique, theory or experiment. Situational Crime Prevention (SCP) is not perfect and it has its concerns with an issue of displacement. Ratcliffe (2006) describes displacement as offenders moving their offending to a place that has less risk of being caught. For example, an offender may not want to rob a jewelry store if he can see that there is a camera system set in place to identify him. This is a concern for the perpetrators because in the rational choice theory, a criminal wants to seek the benefits from the act with the least amount of punishment. The turnout for unintended consequences are not high, however the concerns still prove that displacement can occur and using current SCP may reduce a higher percentage in the future. Conclusion Without the hard work performed by researches, investigators, and academic scholars the study of rational choice theory and its assistance in situational crime prevention (SCP) may not have been explored. SCP is an important and useful tool in the prevention of crime. The research and studies mentioned in this manuscript on the prevention of crime have been reviewed in all types of criminal offenses. The SCP techniques have assisted in giving steps to maintain order in riot situations, white collar crime and women passenger travel using public transportation. These SCP techniques may prevent criminal activity in places that offenders deem easier to victimize individuals but it does not deter criminals from seeking pleasure in other venues that are not affected by preventive solutions. References Beauregard, E., Rossmo D. K., Proulx, J. (2007). A descriptive model of the hunting process of serial sex offenders: A rational choice perspective. Journal of Family Violence. 22(6). 449-463. Retrieved October 20, 2010 from ProQuest database. Bowers, J. K., Johnson, D. S., Hirschfield, G. F. A. (2004). Closing off opportunities for crime: An evaluation of alley-gating. European Journal on Criminal Policy and Research. 10.285-308. Retrieved on October 15, 2010 from ProQuest database. Center for Problem Oriented Policing (2010). Twenty five techniques of situational prevention. Retrieved January 12, 2010 from http://www.popcenter.org/25techniques/. Cromwell, P., Alexander, G., Dotson, P. (2008). Crime and incivilities in libraries: Situational crime prevention strategies for thwarting biblio-bandits and problem patrons. Security Journal. 21. 147-158. Retrieved July 18, 2010 from ProQuest database. Cullen, T. F., Agnew, R. (2006). Criminological Theory: Past to present, 3rd edition. Los Angeles, CA: Roxbury Publishing Company. Innes, B. (2003). Profile of a criminal mind: How psychological profiling helps solve true crimes. Pleasantville, NY/Montreal: Reader ¿Ã‚ ½s Digest Association, Inc. Kane, M. (2008). A Guide for a Safe and Crime-Free Holiday. Thrive Journal. Retrieved October 17, 2010 from Mountain State University. Ratcliffe, J. (2006). Video surveillance of public places. Washinton D. C.: U. S. Department of Justice. Schmalleger, Frank (2006). ¿Ã‚ ½ Criminology today: An integrative introduction, 4th edition. ¿Ã‚ ½ Columbus, OH: ¿Ã‚ ½ Prentice Hall. Smith, M. J. (2008). Addressing the security needs of women passengers on public transport. Security Journal. 21. 117-133. Retrieved July 18, 2010 from ProQuest database. Vance, N. Trani, B. (2008). Situational prevention and the reduction of white collar crime. Journal of Leadership, Accountability and Ethics. 9-18. Retrieved September 18, 2010 from ProQuest database. Verma, A. (2007). Anatomy of riots: A situational crime prevention approach. Crime Prevention and Community Safety. 9. 201-221. Retrieved September 20, 2010 from ProQuest database.

Ecocriticism and Frankenstein Essay -- Literacy Analysis

Given the deep ties to nature that Mary Shelley explores within Frankenstein, the principles and methodology of ecocriticism can be applied in many different ways. The interaction of humanity and nature is a concept explored throughout the novel, relating directly to a core tenet of ecocriticism, "directly relat[ing] who we are as human beings to the environment" (Bressler 231). Being as there is no "single, dominant methodology" (235) within ecocriticism, the extent to which we can use ecocriticism to interact with Frankenstein contains considerable depth. However, I will look to a few main methodologies of ecocriticism to look at Frankenstein in detail to uncover how the novel deals with the changing attitudes of humanity and nature in early 19th century England. Beginning with first wave ecocriticism, the focus on 19th century literature positions Frankenstein right in the radar of the early period of American "nature writing" as well as British writers dealing with humanity and nature as an effect of Romanticism, such as William Wordsworth, John Keats, Samuel Taylor Coleridge among others. Mary Shelley directly quotes Wordsworth and Coleridge through the voice of what could be considered the most "human" of the main characters within Frankenstein, Victor. While lamenting over the loss of his friend Clerval, Victor refers to a passage from Wordsworth's "Tintern Abbey" to express the high value he holds for his departed friend, highlighting important interactions between human interests and nature. Many of the images of beauty expressed through Wordsworth's lines shows the appreciation for nature and its importance over human concerns, and an examination of the deep connections between humanity and nature that ideally should b... ... may result in the imbalance of that which sustains us and our subsequent destruction. While Victor can control nature and bend it to his will in unnatural ways, once confronted with the natural elements, none of his science and ingenuity can save him. Throughout the novel Victor goes to nature for solace, expecting nothing but return, and expects the same throughout the novel, right to his own demise. This lesson is not only applicable to when Frankenstein was written, at an explosively progressive period during the Industrial Revolution, but also to all generations and their relationship with human progression and nature preservation. Works Cited Bressler, Charles E. Literary Criticism: An Introduction to Theory and Practice. 5th ed. New York: Longman, 2011. Print. Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Ed. Paul Hunter. 2nd ed. New York: Norton, 2011. Print.

Memorable Vacation

Are you in the mood to relax, take in the sun, and have people treat you incredibly well? If so, you should take my advice on a great place to visit. Last summer on a family vacation I went to Aruba. â€Å"Vacation is a respite or a time of respite from something : intermission; a scheduled period during which activity (as of a court or school) is suspended; a period of exemption from work granted to an employee; a period spent away from home or business in travel or recreation; an act or an instance of vacating† (vacation). A vacation is a time of relaxation. I really enjoy vacation because I don’t think about school or any other problems. Almost everyone likes to take time out from a world of work and relax once in a while. One way of relaxing that has become popular amongst the people of today’s society is to take a vacation. This action has taken off with the people of today’s society. However, a vacation can mean several different things to several different people. For some people a vacation might be a chance to relax, while to others, a vacation might mean to leave their professional work for a while, only to do another different kind of work. An example of what a vacation is to me is a trip. The trip is a chance to get away from everything and see new sights. Vacations take several shapes, but the main purpose is to relax stays constant. Taking a vacation is a good way to break the monotony of everyday life. Everyone loves getting away and going somewhere new. Seeing new things is great, but if you only have a few days to get away, you must have a plan in order to see as much as possible. We planned our next vacation in advance, not only did save us money, but it also saved us time. In planning a vacation is obviously choosing when and where to go. Vacation time is quality time for you and your family. You must figure out when your family will have the maximum amount of time to spend away. Choosing when you are going first should help determine where you want to go, due to the seasons and the weather. If your vacation is in December and it’s twenty degrees outside you probably don’t want to go and spend the weekend at the lake. Choose a destination which is compatible with the season. We are only able to go away during the summer because it is not our busy season, so we planned our trip for July. Vacations should be a time for relaxation and solitude. Everything should be easy and stress less. However, n some cases vacations can turn into stressful times away from home. In an effort to make your next vacation as stress free as possible. Most stressful vacation scenarios arise because of reservations that have fallen through, flights that have been cancelled, or baggage that has been misplaced. To avoid situations such as these make sure to plan ahead as well as possible. Be sure to relax and remember that you are on vacation. If you are a person easily upset by small things try extra hard to let them go while on vacation. Do not let your kids get to you. Children can be anxious when it comes to vacations especially on the way there. Do not worry about things back home. When you are planning your vacation make sure not to schedule too many activities into one day. Although it is tempting to see as much as possible while on vacation, you should keep in mind that you do not want to tire yourself out after one day. â€Å"The vacations that prove to be disastrous, expensive, or simply not fun are those thrown together at the last minute. However, by spending a little bit of time, you can compare prices, check out many different destination options, and end up with a wonderful vacation that you will never forget. The following six tips are just a few that you could consider when planning the perfect vacation. 1. Options – The first tip to planning the perfect vacation is to keep your options open. Instead of zeroing in on a particular destination, think of the type of environment you are most interested in, as well as activities and culture. 2. Finances – Be realistic about the amount of money you can afford for the perfect vacation. Unfortunately, many people will go on vacation knowing they are spending way over their means, only to return home and find themselves in a financial mess. 3. Travel Agency – If you are unsure where to start in planning the perfect vacation, consider working with a reputable travel agency. 4. Pet Care – Some people will kennel pets or have someone pet sit while on vacation but today, we see a growing number of individuals who want to include this important member of the family in the vacation. 5. Traveler’s Checks – Altho ugh you would likely carry some cash on your perfect vacation, we strongly recommend that you purchase American Express traveler’s checks, which are accepted just about anywhere. 6. Travel Insurance – Typically, people traveling within the United States do not purchase travel insurance but you might consider it† (Warren). A memorable vacation is one that you can never forget. Sometimes it is even hard not to stop thinking about it. Many of the places I have been include Florida, Chicago, Bahamas, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Mexico. All these places are great but each has a non forgettable memory that I store in my head and in my heart. I have had several vacations that have brought good memories, but one that I will never forget was my trip to Aruba in 2009 with my family. There are plenty of other attractions besides the beach that make this place great. If you are into water sports such as windsurfing, skiing, fishing, or jet skiing they have these accommodations offered at most the hotels. If you are one who likes to snorkel or scuba dive, this is the place to be. There is a great variety of fish with bright exotic colors, and through a pair of goggles you can see a whole lot due to the clean water. I highly recommend going to this tropical island. The beaches are really cool; bright white sand, crystal clear water and extremely hot weather surrounds you. Since most of the islands income is through tourism, the hotel employees treat you like a king. The beaches in Aruba are not only a place for entertainment, food and shopping, but they are also an ideal place to watch the sunset. As we drove down to the beach, my nose picked up the salty scent of the sea breeze. I looked ahead and saw the gleaming beach in the far distance. As I stepped out of the car and walked towards to the beach, I saw that the shoreline went on for miles and miles. I immediately saw the ocean with beams of sunlight shining upon it and watched as the waves crashed upon the beach. The sun shining down on the water made it look like there were thousands of diamonds placed upon the surface of the water. Almost everyone likes to take time out from a world of work and relax once in a while. One way of relaxing that has become popular amongst the people of today’s society is to take a vacation. This action has taken off with the people of today’s society. However, a vacation can mean several different things to several different people. For some people a vacation might be a chance to relax, while to others, a vacation might mean to leave their professional work for a while, only to do another different kind of work.

Revolutionizing a Better Era of Technology in the Future of Medicine Essay

Alan Kay states, â€Å"The best way to predict the future is to invent it yourself† (qtd. in Garreau 88). Many Americans ponder what the future might hold. Will technology bring a new era to mankind or will it be the end to all eternity? Ray Kurzweil, inventor of the year by MIT, argues â€Å"he is convinced that medicine is moving sufficiently fast; therefore, any person who can stay healthy for the next 20 years may so benefit from the explosion in biological technology as to be immortal† (Garreau 90-91). With the advancements of medical technology continuing to climb, this quote illustrates that the future will make for a better world. Organizations such as The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency known as DARPA, The Continuous Assisted Performance known as CAP, and The National Science Foundation fund studies that demonstrate how genetic engineering will impact America’s future by developing a bigger, better, stronger individual (Garreau 19-35). Each day as the advancements of technology doubles, the world will soon not worry about diseases and health; everyday gene technology will better our minds, bodies, and most future generations, thus making the â€Å"Heaven Scenario†. In the Article â€Å"Gene Technology and Tissue Engineering† Andree, department of Plastic and Surgery, Freiburg University Hospital, states â€Å"Gene therapy is based on the concept for certain proteins or polypeptides into a cell and, thus, may be used for potential modulation of tissue. Genes can be delivered using either an in vitro approach, and with viral or non-viral vectors. Genes may therefore be stable, or transiently expressed by the cells† (93). This fact illustrates the concept of genetic manipulation and how each cell is expressed. Both Rob DeSalle, Ph.D. in Division of Invertebrates, and Michael Yudell, MPH in Molecular Laboratories, summarize that the study of Genomics will have a major impact in medical services. If doctors knew how to discover someone’s exact diseases, then they can transform and improve those cells to stop in in its act (117-118). With the help from DARPA and CAP and the study and treatments  of Gene therapy, Americans’ will soon find themselves living longer and healthier lives. DARPA funded by Michael Goldbatt, is one of the world’s foremost drivers of human enhancement (Garreau 19). Their vision is to â€Å"accelerate the future into being† (Garreau 21). DARPA help fund the computer mouse, graphics, weather satellites, and many other technologies (Garreau 25). One independent agency that works strongly with DARPA is CAP managed by John Carney (Garreau 28). CAPs advanta ge over DARPA is the laboratory. One idea that they are studying is â€Å"finding an enzyme that appears only in bacteria but not in us. It might exist only for a brief time in the bacteria, but without it, that life form cannot exist. Then you attack it† (Garreau 28-30). Organizations such as DARPA and CAP strive to make unstoppable human beings. For instance, take the well-developed movie Gattaca which came to theaters in 2010 and was about a man that manipulates his DNA to hide his identity to be a more advanced, genetically engineered, human being. No one is capable of stopping him from becoming a better meaningful species to society. Most Americans strive to build themselves up to become the best they can be. Americans’ study the use of DNA manipulation in bodies and cells to help fight off diseases and illnesses such as the common cold or flu. Goldblatt proclaims, â€Å"We do not fear the unknown, and we relish exploring the unknowable† (Garreau 19). Americans should be more like this quote and strive to become the best species that has ever existed. DARPA is studying a vaccine that will help in pain management. Such vaccines will make milestones in terms of medicine. If someone is hurt they will feel the first trigger of pain but the pain will soon subside (Garreau 19-28). This pain vaccine will have many benefits to Americans dealing with diseases and to society. The National Science Foundation believed in the â€Å"Heaven Scenario†: They predicted in 10-20 years the world will evolve much better. Wearable sensors will enhance every person’s awareness of his or her health condition, environment, chemical pollutants, potential hazards, and information of interest about local business, natural resources, and the like. The human body will be more durable, healthy, energetic, easier to repair, and resistant to many kinds of stress, biological threats, and aging process, and technologies will compensated for many physical and mental disabilities and will eradicate altogether some handicaps that have plagues the lives of millions of people. (qtd. in Garreau 112-113) This statement  unveiled a world where technology advancements will mature in a way that Americans are capable of being healthier and happier individuals. The effects of genetic engineering impacts the future by manipulating genes to help Americans live longer. Enzo Russo and David Cove, authors of Genetic Engineering: Dreams and Nightmares, tell a brief story about a little girl that was suffering from a disease called Severe Combined Immune Deficiency. â€Å"She was the first known human being to be treated using gene therapy†¦After two years of therapy, this young girl was able to attend school normally, to swim, dance, ice skate with her family and friends† (117-118). With this example it substantially shows the achievements of Gene Therapy and how Americans greatly benefit from them. Children will have the privilege to go out and play or do whatever else their little imagination wants to do so they can be just like every other child. If doctors had a way to catch or see a disease before it overtakes someone’s body then they would be able to do something about it. Jacobs, consultant genetic counsellor Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, believes â€Å"Early identification of individuals with, or at risk of, hereditary disease can make a difference to patients and families in terms of accessing genetic services, early detection and risk-reducing measures. Several clinical guidelines recomm end undertaking family history assessment in clinical setting† (Jacobs, Chris, Christine 38). Jacobs also states that â€Å"Recognizing when off spring may be at risk of genetic condition such as cystic fibrosis, Duschenne muscular dystrophy or Huntington’s disease, can help couples to make choices about prenatal testing and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis. These procedures increase the possibility of a healthy baby and reduce the risk of passing the mutation to future generations† (Jacobs, Chris, Christine 38). With this possibility, think of how it will make a new era to mankind. Parents no longer have to worry about unborn babies and whether they will have the same disease as their ancestors. Another person that was influenced by Gene Therapy is Gregory Stock. Stock, director on Medicine, Technology, and society at the school of medicine of California, proclaims â€Å"In the future Americans will benefit from using ‘Artificial Chromosomes’. Future generations will be able to switch out one or two chromosomes that may be transferring diseases with a stronger chromosome† (qtd. in Garreau 116-117). There are many believers of the â€Å"Heaven Scenario† although all the outcomes  might not be the same. Ray Kurzweil, who was granted the national medal of technology, was the inventor of the â€Å"Heaven Scenario.† He stated â€Å"is there is no problem or challenge that there [is not] an idea to overcome that problem† (qtd. in Garreau 115). This statement argues that no matter how difficult something might proclaim to be, there will always be a new improved way to get thru. In terms of medicine, there will always be new inventions of t echnology and drugs that will make a better advancement then the former. No matter what the statistics say technology will always have an astonishing outcome. If Americans’ had the opportunity to formulate themselves at a higher level of humanity then why not go for it? (Garreau 115) Most Americans’ dream that one day the world will be a heavenly place for all humanity. With the advancements of new medical technology doubling and continuing to climb up this progressive ladder, Americans’ soon will be bigger, stronger, and healthier individuals. The inventions of new drugs, either injected or manipulated into genes, will influence making the outcome of the â€Å"Heaven Scenario† true. If more organizations like previously stated DARPA and CAP continue to find new ways of implementing and then attacking infections and disease: Americans’ will live much longer non-stressful lives. Imagine the outcome of waking up clear headed and pain free with no worries in sight. Future generations will have the knowledge and ability to know when a bad enzyme links on and attacks cells; furthermore, being able to stop the infection before it explodes and travels thru DNA. It will be a new era to mankind. Americans’ will be able to determine and c hoose how their children turn out. Children will be healthier and live longer lambent lives. Like my opening quote â€Å"the best way to predict the future is to invent it yourself.† Negative controversies about technology being the end of mankind should not influence Americans’ into not believing in the â€Å"Heaven Scenario,† thus sit back and watch the never ending achievements and outcomes of Gene therapy transmute the world into a better brighter norm. Works Cited Andree, C., et al. â€Å"Gene Technology and Tissue Engineering.† Minimally Therapy & Allied Technologies 11.3 (2002): 93-99. Academic Search Premier. Web. 18 March 2014. DeSalle and Michael Yudell. Welcome To The Genome: A User’s Guide to Genetic Past, Present, and Future. Canada: John Wiley & Sons. Inc., 2005. Print. Garreau, Joel. Radical Evolution: The Promise and Peril of Enhancing Our Minds, Our Bodies- and What It Means to Be Human. New York: Random House, 2005. Print. Jacobs, Chris, and Christine Patch. â€Å"Identifying Individuals Who Might Benefit From Genetic Services And Information.† Nursing Standard. 28.9 (2013): 37-42. Academic Search Premier. Web. 18 March 2014. Russo and David Cove. Genetic Engineering: Dreams and Nightmares. Oxford New York Tokyo: Oxford University Press, 1998. Print.

Gcp story Essays

Gcp story Essays Gcp story Essay Gcp story Essay Daft is the closest competing firm in Italian frozen dinners segment that has been stable with 25% market share and is preparing to launch Healthy food options. Apart from the above, Natural food retailers and restaurants also pose a threat to GCP (FFD) revenues. CONTEXT GCP needs to have an above industry average growth to meet the expectations of financial markets (Wall Street). The gross revenue and marketing margin have been less than expected so far (till August 2008). Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for frozen food industry has been reducing since 2007. Super markets and retailers influence is increasing in promoting any product in frozen food industry. GCP needs to re-strategize its promotion plan to meet the planned financial figures. On the technical frontier there is a lack of measurable metric to gauge the success of promotions. Question 2: What is your advice to Sanchez regarding the national sales promotion? Shcould the funds be allocated to: (a) Dinardos 32-ounce package, (b) Dinardos 16-ounce package, or (c) Natural Meals? : Justify your decision by developing ppropriate criteria and conducting an analysis based on those criteria. Situational Analysis Impact of promotions of individual brands: Dinardos32: GCP has done national level promotion for Dinardos32 four times in last 2 years. Key highlights of the promotion are: Average % Retailer participating in national promotion : 27. 07% Iincrease in sales volume of Dinardos32 : 45% Cannibalization of Dinardos16 : 88% decline in sales volume of Dinardo16 Net impact on Top-line revenue: Decrease by $1. 2 million dollars. Net impact on Marketing Margin of FFD : Decrease by $4. 5 million ROMI : -1. 2 Dinardds16: GCP has done national level promotion for Dinardos16 five times in last national promotion : 30. 8% Iincrease in sales volume of Dinardos16 : 63% Cannibalization of Dinardos32 : 20% decline in sales volume of Dinardo16 Net impact on Top-line revenue: Iincrease by $2. 8 million dollars. Net impact on Marketing Margin of FFD : Decrease by $2. 5 million ROMI : -0. 57 Natural Meals: This brand has never been premoted at national level by GCP because of fear of tarnishing the premium brand image. However, the projections of national promotion (if carried out) seem positive economically positive. There has been very little or no correlation between the promotion of D32 or D16 and sales of Naturals ea s Ine data Inalcates tnat tnere nas Deen no cannlDallzatlon on sales 0T Natural Meals because of promotion of D32 or Dl exhibit 3). Also, this is the brand which has shown the y-o-y growth of 15% which is a potential oopportunity in the food industry. To forecast the national promotion impact of Natural meals on the financials of FFD, we assumed that 25% of the retailers will agree to premote the brand. Key highlights of the analysis: Average % Retailer participating in national romotion : 25% Iincrease in sales volume of Natural Meals : 50% No significant cannibalization of other brands Net impact on Top-line revenue: Iincrease by $6. 7 million dollars. Net impact on Marketing Margin of FFD : Iincrease by $0. 5 million ROMI : 0. 12 Seasonal sales analysis and impact of promotion on Forward-buying: Refer Exhibit 2. There is no consistent seasonal impact of months on the total sales of each brand in last two years. The maxima in the graphs are due to promotion of the brand and minima are due to the promotion of other brand (Cannibalization). The subsequent onths do not show any drop in the sales which confirms that there is no significant Forward-buying concern. Strategic Options GCP has an option of promoting Dinardos32, Dinardos16 and/or Natural Meals in the last four months of the year to boost its marketing margins to meet the annual target. Below are the Pros and Cons of promoting each brand. Dinardos32 Dinardos16 Natural Meals pros Cons Iincrease in sales revenue of D32 Huge Cannibalization of D16. Negative sales revenue for FFD. (Exhibit 4) Iincrease in sales revenue of D16 Significant Cannibalization of D32. (Refer Exhibit 4) Iincrease in sales revenue Premium product image tarnishing. Negligible stock piling Negative ROMI (-1. 2). (including the effect of cannibalization) Negligible stock piling Negative ROMI(-O. 57). (including the effect of cannibalization) Ppositive ROMI (0. 12) Aggressive promotion response from Daft. Iincrease in marketing margin of D32 High promotion cost Decrease in Marketing margin of D16. No significant cannibalization (Reter ExnlDlt 1 Tor more aetalls) Comparison of Promotion Strategies: GCP has three options to engage in promotional activities with the retailers and super markets i. , Off Invoice, Pay for Performance and Target Based. GCP has been traditionally going for pay-for-performance strategy in promotion of D32 and D16. Off Invoice Pay-for performance Target-based Iincrease in sales because of forward buying. Retailers may not pass cost benefit to end customers. Iincrease in sales. Retailers apprehension. No forward buying Retailers apprehension Benefit and incentives for Retailers. No tracking of actual sales. Measurable outcome. Only 25-30% retailers participation. Measurable outcome Retailers participation may go down below 25% Key Analysis: GCP has been traditionally going for pay-for-performance strategy in promotion of D32 and D16. However, we would recommend GCP to go for a mix of off invoice and pay for performance strategies for promotion of Natural Meals brand. Under this scheme, the retailers would receive 50% of promotion incentive when they first place an order with GCP (Off invoice promotion). The remaining 50% of promotion incentive will be paid to them when these items are sold to the end customer at promotional prices (pay-for-performance). This would reduce the retailers apprehension as they will be getting an advance amount for promotion. We expect this strategy would result into increase in the % of store participation to minimum 40% from current estimated 25%. We have noticed that promotions of D32 and D16 have a negative impact on sales of the other due to cannibalization. As the end effect, the marketing margin gets affected if we premote any of the two. Data shows that, there is a negative impact of every promotion (regional or national) of D32 or D16. *(Refer exhibit 1- Part I and Part II and Exhibit 4). For every promotion ppercentage of D32, average sales of D16 are reduced by 171 ,752. This shows that even during the verage regional promotion of D32 at 7. 3%, sales of D16 are getting affected by 1,275,903. i. e. if we stop the regional promotion of D32, there will be rise in monthly sales of D16 by 1,275,903. In this case, the sales of D32 will be equal to baseline sales ana promotlon expenalture will De u Ssimilarly, tnere wlll De rise In montnly Iincrease in sales of D32 by 437,428 by reducing the promotion of D16 to O. Also, the average sales of D16 without promotion will be equal to baseline sales. It has also been noted that, even for Dinardos other, considering only the baseline volume and bringing the egional promotion down to O helps in improving the bottom-line. GCP is losing money by doing regional promotions on Dinardos other as promotion costs are higher than marketing margin gained by the promotions. As ROMI on Natural Meals is positive, we would recommend 40% national promotion of the same for two months out of four months remaining. This will be possible because of new promotion strategy of mix of off invoice and pay-for -performance strategies. Advice: As a conclusion, our advice to Mr. Sanchez will be stop promotion of Dinardos brands (both regional and national) for next four months and run a national promotion for Natural Meals in 40% of the stores in two of the next four months. This would help FFD to meet their annual target (Marketing Margin/Profit will be approximately equal to the planned profit for 2008). Refer exhibit 5. (Table for last four months projected volume). Positioning Statement Keeping in mind the positive ROMI and ppercentage increase in per year sales (15% increase) of Natural Meals, we plan to achieve our targeted revenue for 2008 by exploiting its popularity among health-conscious customers and launching its promotion campaign at National Level in two of the next four months. We will also top promotion of all the Dinardos products both at regional and national level. Implementation Strategy 1 . Product: Banking on the success in regional promotion of Natural Meals, Ppositive Return on Marketing Investment (ROMI) and expected increase in participation from retailers (owing to mix of off-invoice promotion strategy and pay-per-performance strategy), we will premote Natural Meals for 2 months at National Level. 2. Promotion: 50% for pay-per-performance strategy and 50% for off-invoice strategy We expect the participation of retailers would increase from anticipated 25% currently using pay-per-performance approach) to 40% (using combination of off-invoice and pay-per-performance approaches). This would help us reduce significantly the impact of competitors product launch as we will have sthronger ties with retailers and we will leverage the deal-conscious nature of consumers. 3. Price: By promoting Natural Meals, we will give the consumers attractive discount keeping the marked price same. 4. Place: Leveraging the good relations with super markets and retailers, we will strive to secure front-end displays for Natural Meals, highlighting its key features and attractive discounts. M Model of marketing communications is used to increase Natural Meals brand-awareness. Market Encourage existing customers to buy more at discounted prices. Attract new customers by highlighting health-benefits and discounted prices. Mission To meet the annual plan for FFD to improve the bottom-line. Message Consume low fat foods free of any added preservatives at reasonable costs. Media Advertise in print-media to raise awareness about the promotion campaign Money Encouraging customers to buy in volumes by offering discounts in sales period. Measurement ROMI ana nlgner MarKetlng-Marglns to meet annual target. Question 3: Shcould the FFD division be running promotions at all?

Frederick Douglass Importance of Education Research Paper Example

Frederick Douglass Importance of Education Research Paper Example Frederick Douglass Importance of Education Paper Frederick Douglass Importance of Education Paper Essay Topic: Education To Learn or Not to Learn Throughout Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, the importance of education becomes apparent as Frederick Douglass’ opinion wavers. Towards the beginning of the narrative, Douglass is eager to learn, and when his master forbids his learning, it only fuels his desire to further his education. Once he is finally able to read, however, he becomes restless with his life and blames education for his discontent. Ultimately, though, he views education as vital to his freedom from lavery and realizes that he can put his education to good use, helping other slaves to freedom. Frederick Douglass comes to see the power of education when he moves in with the Aulds. When he is first living with them, Mrs. Auld starts to teach him the basics of reading and writing. He is content and eager to learn, until Mr. Auld prohibits his wife from furthering Douglass’ education, saying, â€Å"If you teach that nigger how to read, there would be no keeping him. It would forever unfit him to be a slave. : As to himself it would do him no good. It would make him discontented and unhappy’ (Douglass 22). Instead of discouraging his education, however, this only prompts Douglass to learn more, as he now understands that education is key in his escape from a life of slavery. Douglass soon finds new means of education in the young white boys that live near him, who will occasionally give him lessons in return for bread. Just as Mr. Auld had predicted, as soon as Douglass is able to read on his own, he begins to become discontent and restless with his life. His education had â€Å"opened his] eyes to the horrible pit, but offered no ladder upon which to get out† (Douglass 26). At times Douglass finds himself envious of the lack of knowledge of the other slaves around him, as he is now aware of his foul quality of life, but can find no way of relief. â€Å"l often found myself regretting my own existence, and wishing myself dead; and but for the hope of being free, I have no doubt but that I should have killed myself, or done something for which I should have been killed† (Douglass 26). This quote is an example of Just how disturbed and discontented Douglass is with his uality of life. The more Douglass reads, the more frustrated he feels, as he comes to believe that his masters are no more then â€Å"successful robbers† who took his people from their homes and enslaved them. Although having an education seems like a curse to Frederick Douglass at times, he comes to view education as essential to his escape from slavery. Through reading, Douglass becomes aware of the abolitionist movement in the northern part of the United States. As a result, he is able to eventually find a way to run away to the north, and start a new life for himself as a free man. He soon puts his education to good use and starts writing Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, in hopes that it will tragic reality of slavery. Despite the fact that Frederick Douglass’ education sometimes felt like a burden, he would not have been able to escape to freedom without it. Because of his motivation to learn early in life, he was eventually able to understand the abolitionist movement and run away to the north. He used his education to write one of the most influential works of literature to help the emancipation movement in the United States.

Hyphenation of Phrasal Adjectives

Hyphenation of Phrasal Adjectives Hyphenation of Phrasal Adjectives Hyphenation of Phrasal Adjectives By Mark Nichol Hyphens have been erroneously omitted from phrasal adjectives in the following three examples, each of which is followed by an explanation of the error and a corrected version of the sentence. 1. Three of those assembly members face a tough reelection in a Republican heavy district or represent the economically hard hit Central Valley. A lack of hyphenation in the phrase â€Å"Republican heavy district† prompts the reading â€Å"a heavy district inhabited by Republicans,† but the phrase means â€Å"a district populated mostly by Republicans,† so the phrase â€Å"Republican heavy,† as a phrasal adjective modifying district, should be hyphenated; the same rule applies for the final phrase: â€Å"Three of those assembly members face a tough reelection in a Republican-heavy district or represent the economically hard-hit Central Valley.† 2. The objective is to enhance focus and character work on a scene to scene basis. The phrase â€Å"scene to scene† modifies basis, so it should be hyphenated: â€Å"The objective is to enhance focus and character work on a scene-to-scene basis.† (However, just as one would write â€Å"a district heavy in Republicans† or â€Å"the Central Valley was hard hit,† the phrasal adjective should not be hyphenated when it follows the noun, as in â€Å"we worked on the script scene to scene† (or, better, â€Å"scene by scene†). 3. A weary customer said, â€Å"This is a serious shop until you drop situation, and I am dropping.† What kind of a situation is it? One in which the customer shops until he or she drops. The idiomatic phrase â€Å"shop until you drop† is a phrasal adjective modifying situation, so it should be hyphenated: â€Å"A weary customer said, ‘This is a serious shop-until-you-drop situation, and I am dropping.’† If that train of four hyphenated words seems too cumbersome, enclose it in single quotation marks: â€Å"This is a serious ‘shop until you drop’ situation, and I am dropping.† Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Punctuation category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Bare or Bear With Me?In Search of a 4-Dot Ellipsis50 Plain-Language Substitutions for Wordy Phrases

Proposal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 8

Proposal - Essay Example I believe that though some studies also showed that violent media can have bad effects on the sociability and aggression of adolescents and adults alike, these effects came more from their childhood experiences of violent media. Adults can understand what is wrong and right, so they can better understand the harmful effects of violence and they know that violent media is unreal. Children, however, are different because they are not yet mentally and emotionally mature. Violent media can have serious effects on their perceptions of violence, as well as attitudes and actions toward violence. My pathos is that I believe that when we fail to protect the healthy development of the minds and emotions of our children, we are also forsaking the development of a peaceful and rational society. If violent media is bad for kids, then kids must not play them at all, or be exposed to them, including marketing tools that sell violent media. 4. What’s your thesis? Violent media is bad for kids because it has significant short-term and long-term effects on children’s development of aggressive thoughts, emotions, and actions, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, intelligence, and parenting styles and characteristics. What information do they need and why? They need to know why violent media is bad for kids using logic and evidence because they need convincing on why violent media can affect the thinking and behaviors of their kids. How much or how little are you going to use that/those source(s)? I am going to use them all but I also need contradicting research or studies and anecdotes that oppose them, so that I can respond to these research and ideas and prove that my position is more convincing than

Progress Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Progress Report - Essay Example She also shows some anticipation for the next step in activities with familiar routine and is beginning to show ability to communicate a desire for activities to continue. Record of Progress Communication and Language Activities experience by the pupil this year Communication underpins every activity that Cristina undertakes at school. She has participated in a range of activities over this year to provide opportunities for her to develop her communication skills. These activities included greetings, end of the day sessions, massage, sensory story, interactive music, and one-to-one interaction sessions with familiar members of the staff. Responding Pupil’s progress Cristina has been working towards developing anticipation of the next step in well-established routines and responds appropriately or consistently to a range of different sensory stimuli. As the year progresses, Cristina has become more consistent in showing anticipation for regular daily activities such as greeting s and her favourite weekly sensory story session titled ‘We going on the bear hunt’. A good example is her excellent progress in anticipating for greeting or interactive sessions during Autumn term. She would look at a bottle of essential oil when presented to her by an adult and stay still for a few seconds to smell the oil of the day. She initially smiled broadly when asked whether she wants more of a smell particularly if given plenty of time to respond. During Spring term, she showed ability to recognize the sequence of steps within same activity. She has also begun exploring the drum positioned under her hands by making small finger movement especially if encouraged verbally by adults to perform a task. Over the time, she has learnt to prolong the activity by trying hard to continue her small hand movement in exploring this musical instrument especially with prolonged one-to-one interaction she gets from an adult at such times. She has also begun to get less startl ed if adult leading the activity use a countdown such as ‘one, two, three’ when introducing noisy objects, such as drum. Recently, she began to vocalise when asking for a tune to say hello, although she is not yet consistent and will need more time to consolidate this skill. During the sensory story sessions, she has shown ability to anticipate certain familiar routines, especially if an adult used the phrase ‘ready, steady†¦go’. She would for example anticipate for water spray by turning head and looking at an adult shaking a thunder maker for brief moment of 2-3 seconds. She would also smile when activities were accompanied by ‘ready, steady†¦go’. On some occasion, she would actively turn her head towards rainmaker and tracked torch light on the black material other than just smiling or stilling in response. Interacting Pupil’s progress Cristina has been working towards developing her interaction skills with familiar and less familiar adults and shows ability to distinguish between them. Cristina remained interested when adults interacted with her and continued to smile or became animated when the adult talked to her. She responded best during one-to-one intensive sessions when familiar members of staff interacted with her. She showed a clear awareness of the presence of others and would at times smile when chatting to a class staff member. She has also responded with various facial expressions and random vocalizations. She has learnt to accept physical contact from familiar and

Medical Experiments on Incompetent Individuals in a Society Essay

Medical Experiments on Incompetent Individuals in a Society - Essay Example Many factors are important and need to be taken into consideration while a problem of this intensity is being discussed. The divisions in the society need to be taken into account. Racial differences and how intelligence in different races and societies are assessed is an important aspect of such a debate. One must also assess the question as to who possesses the right to assess the intelligence of people who are to be subjected to medical experiments. What constitutes intelligence also remains an important part of this debate that would decide the future of human society. Much of this debate can be argued to stem from the work of the great naturalist, Charles Darwin, who argued that in a world where the natural resources that is available to everybody is limited, the law of the ‘survival of the fittest’ would be the one that holds (Darwin). ... The fact that such reforms can be brought about or stalled only through the medium of legislation by the executives of nations makes the issue even more complicated. This is because the issue, like the legalization of abortion or animal rights, is an extremely sensitive issue and can create problems for political parties that usually take the decisions of the executive wing of the government of a nation state. Public perceptions are thus, an important part of this debate. An objective approach that brings people from various backgrounds together for negotiations would be the best way to seek a solution for this problem. This should be preceded by campaigns that seek to allay the fears of all sections of the society regarding this matter. This paper shall seek to look at the complexities of the issue at hand and examine the choices that are available to human society as a whole for the purpose of attaining a solution to this problem. The issue of whether people who are in states of co ma where they may not be able to inform others of their assent or dissent to be a part of a certain experiment conducted for the purpose of finding out the efficacy of a certain scientific or medical truth, is a complex one. What constitutes death for such people is a question that has not met with satisfactory answers from philosophers as of yet. People who have died may have, in their wills, decided to donate their bodies for the cause of medical research. The question of death, thus assumes importance in this matter. Also important is the assent of the person involved. In many cultures, the body of a person is considered to be important for the performance of the last

DQ 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

DQ 2 - Essay Example There are three main financial statements that are usually affected when a company makes any transaction. Purchase of an asset does not qualify as an expense, since it is a financing activity, which means that the income statement is not affected or changed. The balance sheet is used to record the final balances in the asset, liability and equity accounts of a firm, which means that this transaction will affect the balance sheet. When the company takes the loan, the cash account (current asset) increases by $150,000, and the loan account (Liability) also increases by $150,000. When the company purchases the asset, the cash account (current asset) reduces by $150,000, and the equipment account (Long-term asset) increases by $150,000. The other financial statement that is affected is the cash flow statement, since the transaction of purchasing the asset is a cash flow for an investing activity. In this case, the cash flow for investing activities will be increased by

Supply Chain Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Supply Chain - Case Study Example There are crucial stakeholders representing diverse interests within companies, but equally important, there are also numerous stakeholders outside as well who include suppliers and primary producers of raw materials. To sustainably remain in business, companies must address potential risks facing both internal and external stakeholders, and supply chain ethics form a critical aspect of this component (Mills, Schmitz & Frizelle 2004, p. 1021). Compliance practices, ethics and culture of the entire supply chain members must be examined and addressed to reduce risks. This paper will examine Nestlà ©Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s case study and determine its and its suppliers’ supply chain and business risks in the event of their unethical behaviour as well as strategic advantages to suppliers and customers when they embrace ethical practices. Consumers, business partners, investors, media organisations and regulators all expect businesses and their supply chains to demonstrate high standards of ethical behaviour (Coughlan 2005, p. 49). Ethical scandals generated by suppliers are probably the least foreseen and biggest risks businesses face in the modern world. In view of this, Nestlà © understands the potential damage that can be suffered when the risks materialise and, hence, has adopted protective measures in the form of social corporate responsibility (SCR). In this sense, the company extends its culture beyond internal control to ensure its policies and principles are concerned with the activities of suppliers and consumers and practices of labour and human rights. The environment also forms a key area of concern. The underlying significance of this approach is that it creates new and shared value for both shareholders and society through a strategic partnership with customers, suppliers and distributors in areas wh ere Nestlà © can have the greatest

The Colorado River Runs Dry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Colorado River Runs Dry - Essay Example The result is devastating. Projection shows that in the next decade, more people will content with a limited access to water and devoid of freshness (Zielinski 1). Currently one billion people face water stresses. The number is bound to increase. Parts in the world now have strict schedules of using water. The continued arid conditions will plunge more into the menace raising the eyebrows of officials in the water divisions of Colorado River. Desperate measures taken by authorities have gone to the extent of using authority money to replace water-gulping equipment and engineers going out of their way to developing plants to clean water (Zielinski 1). It will take more than replacing gulping lawnmowers and engineering plant to tackle the water crisis. Research institution as developed by Colorado River body will aid in the changing of the culture of water misuse. In addition, conservation of natural habitats and catchment areas is imperative in the search for fresh water supply. Culturally, the world needs to change ways of using the entire ecosystem. The world needs more trees than purification

Supply Chain Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Supply Chain - Case Study Example There are crucial stakeholders representing diverse interests within companies, but equally important, there are also numerous stakeholders outside as well who include suppliers and primary producers of raw materials. To sustainably remain in business, companies must address potential risks facing both internal and external stakeholders, and supply chain ethics form a critical aspect of this component (Mills, Schmitz & Frizelle 2004, p. 1021). Compliance practices, ethics and culture of the entire supply chain members must be examined and addressed to reduce risks. This paper will examine Nestlà ©Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s case study and determine its and its suppliers’ supply chain and business risks in the event of their unethical behaviour as well as strategic advantages to suppliers and customers when they embrace ethical practices. Consumers, business partners, investors, media organisations and regulators all expect businesses and their supply chains to demonstrate high standards of ethical behaviour (Coughlan 2005, p. 49). Ethical scandals generated by suppliers are probably the least foreseen and biggest risks businesses face in the modern world. In view of this, Nestlà © understands the potential damage that can be suffered when the risks materialise and, hence, has adopted protective measures in the form of social corporate responsibility (SCR). In this sense, the company extends its culture beyond internal control to ensure its policies and principles are concerned with the activities of suppliers and consumers and practices of labour and human rights. The environment also forms a key area of concern. The underlying significance of this approach is that it creates new and shared value for both shareholders and society through a strategic partnership with customers, suppliers and distributors in areas wh ere Nestlà © can have the greatest

Employment contract Essay Example for Free

Employment contract Essay To raise a grievance at work the first step would be to talk to your line manager, explain the situation and see if the problem can be solved informally. If, however, the grievance cannot be resolved informally then the issue can be raised formally using the following procedure: Stage 1 Employees may request in writing a formal meeting with the line manager to state the grievance. Where the issue involves the line manager, this request should be made to the manager’s manager (area manager). Grievances should be made as soon as possible and in any event within 3 months of the issue complained about taking place. A hearing will be arranged, normally within 10 working days, for the employee to discuss the issue with the manager. A decision will be made once the matter has been fully investigated and the manager will communicate their response in writing within 5 working days. This should include details of the employee’s right to appeal. Stage 2 If the employee is dissatisfied with the decision then they have received in stage 1 then they can take their grievance further and request in writing a formal meeting under stage 2 of the grievance procedure. This will be conducted by a manager other than the manager that carried out the stage 1 meeting. The employee will receive the decision of this hearing in writing within 5 working days. Stage 3 If the employee is still dissatisfied with the decision then they may appeal in writing to the Chief Executive of the Trust within 10 working days of receipt of the stage 2 decision. A further meeting will take place and the decision will be confirmed in writing within 5 working days of the hearing. The decision at stage 3 of the procedure is final, in so far as the Trusts internal procedures are concerned. Bv 1. Data Protection All confidential information should be kept secure by employees in order to protect customers and their families. Confidential information (e.g. customer support plans, support notes and medication administration forms) must not be left in a place where non-authorised individuals may view it. Data should not be passed on to anyone without the consent of the customer or their next of kin. 2. Grievance Any grievances should be reported to the line manager to try to resolve the issue informally. If, however, it is not resolved at this level then there is a grievance procedure in place which enables employees to pursue the matter formally. 3. Conflict Management If employees have a problem with another member of staff and it cannot be resolved between themselves then they should contact their line manager for assistance with resolving the issue. If the conflict involves the line manager or if the employee feels that they are not receiving adequate support then they should report to the area manager. 4. Anti-discriminatory Practice All employees are expected to act with dignity and respect towards each person’s individual beliefs and identity. Customers, accessing Oaklea care and support services, should not be treated less favourably based on their; age, sex, disability, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity or gender. 5. Health Safety All employees have personal responsibility in ensuring their own and others health, safety, and welfare at work. We are required to read and apply organisational policies and procedures regarding health and safety, undertake necessary training, wear personal protective equipment (PPE) provided, use safety equipment and safety devices where required and report any hazardous conditions to the line manager or Health and Safety Officer. 6. Confidentiality All information concerning customers and/or their families must be treated  with the upmost respect and all employees have an obligation to protect this information. Confidential information must not be disclosed to a third party either formally or informally (gossip). The sharing of information may be necessary for continuation of good care and support of customers (e.g. between other employees or professions). If employees are asked to disclose information about a customer and are concerned that doing so may breach confidentiality then clarification should be sought via the line manager. 7. Whistle blowing If employees need to raise concern about a risk, malpractice or wrongdoing that affects others such as customers, other staff members, the company or the public then the company’s whistleblowing procedure should be followed. The first stage of this procedure would be to raise concerns with the employee’s line manager either in writing or through a meeting. If the issue involves the line manager or if the employee has already raised their [emailprotected] ?U: concerns with the line manager and feel that they have not been adequately addressed then the second stage of the procedure should be followed. At this stage, issues may be raised either in writing or through a meeting with a Director. If stage 2 has been undertaken and the employees concerns are unresolved or if they feel that the matter is so serious that it should be investigated by the Chief Executive immediately then concerns should be raised either in writing or via a meeting. Any employee raising concerns under the whistleblowing procedure has the right to remain anonymous. Bvi As a Community Home Carer, my role is to provide individualized care and support to people with social care needs so that they may continue to live in their homes and in the community. A care plan is in place for each customer that explains their specific needs and what care they require from us. My duties/responsibilities may include: Assisting customers with washing, bathing, personal hygiene, dressing, toileting, continence and catheter care. Meal and drink preparation and help with feeding where necessary. Helping customers to comply with their prescribed medication and fill out Medication Administration Records (MAR). Supporting customers  with cleaning, laundry, shopping and other household duties as required. Helping customers with mobility skills, transferring them safely where required (e.g. from bed to chair) and helping them to use aids and personal equipment. Providing end of life care. Documenting the care given at each visit in the Daily Support Notes (DSN). Liaising with other carers and health care professionals to ensure continuity of care. By carrying out these duties to a high standard and conforming to all policies, procedures and guidelines, customers will receive a quality service that will help them to maintain as much independence as possible in a safe environment within their own homes. The safeguarding carried out by carers is essential in protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of vulnerable adults, and ensures that they live free from harm, abuse and neglect. It is our duty to report any safeguarding concerns to the appropriate person(s) so that action may be taken to protect the wellbeing of service users. Bvii a) Following best practice within my work role helps to safeguard vulnerable adults living in the community and ensures that they receive a quality service that promotes health and wellbeing. It is important that I stay within my job role, follow policies and procedures, keep up to date with changes in policies and legislation and keep up to date with training to develop my skills in the workplace. It is also important to work as part of a team, passing on skills where necessary (e.g. to new staff members) and gaining feedback from colleagues. Good communication skills are essential between team members and other professions involved in the care of the service user as this enables continuity of care. b) Failing to carry out the requirements of my role by not following policies, procedures and legislation and not complying with regulatory bodies endangers the health and wellbeing of service users and may put other team members at risk. Not following manual handling procedures, for example, would put me and the service user at risk of injury and not wearing personal protective equipment  when necessary may put me and others at risk of infection. Poor practice may also result in complaints from service users, disciplinary action and in severe cases it may lead to me losing my job, being prosecuted and/or prevented from working in the health and social care setting. Bviii As a Community Home Carer I must follow best practice within my work role and work to the company policies and procedures that mirror laws and legislation. There are also external factors which influence the standards that I must adhere to in my work such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC) essential standards, Skills for Care’s Common Induction Standards (CIS) which are the standards people working in health social care need to meet before they can safely work unsupervised (e.g. manual handling, first aid, health and safety training), the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) codes of practice and ADASS’ ‘Safeguarding Adults: A National Framework of Standards for good practice and outcomes in adult protection work’, which sets out a framework of best practice standards. Government initiatives also have an influence on the roles of carers such as ‘Our Care, Our Health Our Say’ which sets out policy goals to make health and social care ser vices that are designed around the patient rather than the needs of the patient being forced to fit around the service already provided. ‘Putting People First’ also aims for a personalised approach to the delivery of adult social care. Bix a) Two different representative bodies which influence my area of work are the care quality commission and the health and care professions council. b) The role of the care quality commission (CQC) is to regulate, inspect and review all adult health and social care services in the public, private and voluntary sectors in England and make sure that they are meeting national standards. These services include hospitals, care homes, GPs, dentists and services in the home (e.g. home carers). The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) are a regulatory body set up to protect the public by keeping a register of health and care professionals that meet their standards for training, professional skills, behaviour and health. If professionals fail  to meet these standards then they may be removed from the register and prevented from practicing. The HCPC replaced the General Social Care Council (GSCC) which was abolished in 2012.

The Truth In Hard Determinism Philosophy Essay

The Truth In Hard Determinism Philosophy Essay Over the years the problem of free will versus determinism has been a phenomena to philosophers for many years. It has been a huge issue, because without the presence of free will there cannot be morality, no wrong or right, no good or evil. Everyones behavior would be determined before hand and people would have no creativity or choice. Everything one does on a daily basis in ones life somehow involves the process of decision making or choice selection, whether it be mental or physical. From the moment one wakes up to the second one sleeps, decisions and choices are being made. There are some decisions that one makes that are extremely obvious to oneself because of the need of reflecting on the choices before choosing. But most of the decisions one makes throughout the day are made with little thought. Furthermore, many people are mostly unaware that they are making decisions because of preference and habituation. Before continuing further, the terms free will, and determinism must be defined. Free will is the idea that an individual is free to make decisions that are unhindered by external forces. Whereas determinism states that the conditions of a specific moment are the result of from the previous conditions of previous moments. The position that this paper encourages is that of hard determinism. The general hard determinist believes that no human action is free. Paul Holbach was a hard determinist philosopher who wrote an article called The illusion of Free Will. In it he explained how everything one does is caused by things that is beyond ones control. Generally speaking , people are motivated to pursue pleasure and avoid pain, but people cannot help what gives them pain or pleasure. No matter what one does, the endless chain of causes and effects leads ones doing is inevitable. An important example that Holbach used was the poisoned water. It demonstrated that whatever one does they do it for a reason, and that these reasons are simple changes that the brain makes which determines what one chooses to do. Since one cannot control the changes in the brain that causes one to choose what one chooses, then that would mean that no one cannot control their own actions. Hard determinism also gives a more rational perspective of humans and their choices. It focuses on the causes instead of the instant causes for ones actions. Also the implications of being determined are taken more seriously, and it does not make one responsible for the decisions one makes because they are beyond the individuals control. Furthermore, hard determinism tries to take into fact of how people feel that they are free when they really are not. Halbach believed that the main cause of why people think that they make their own decisions is because they are ignorant to the cause and effect chain that determines their behaviors. The motives and causes are just too complex for people to understand them. People do not also naturally question where the causes behind their choices come from, which gives humans the idea of having free will. Moreover, hard determinism has many advantages to it. It could be helpful in courts of law and in the legal system, that is when it would be most convincing . A person who maybe standing on trial may use hard determinism as a defense by stating that the individuals actions were caused by events that occurred in the past which were ultimately beyond the persons control. If hard determinism is successfully persuasive in court, then it should be accepted that both free will and determinism are incompatible. However hard determinism does have its flaws. While soft determinism views that humans are unique, because they possess free will; hard determinism refutes humans that important component that makes humans distinctly different form animals. Humans are also no more free than robots. In addition, it would be wrong to punish a criminal, because they just could not help it; and that would ultimately lead to an unstable society filled with mayhem and troubles. Ultimately hard determinism argues that humans may feel free but it is nothing but a mere illusion, and some people would argue against this and believe that it is free of choice. Continuing on the pros of the hard determinist view, libertarianism brought up many new points to the argument. Libertarianism was about the idea that humans are all free and that free will is not compatible with determinism. Libertarians argue that because one can easily create ones choices it gives one libertarian free will, and that ones choices in the future are undetermined. Furthermore libertarianism has far too many problems and disadvantages. The first disadvantage is that there is scientific data and empirical evidence that proves that humans are psychologically and scientifically determined,(this discovery was made by Skinner, who was also a hard determinist). It is through classical conditioning that human behavior is a response to the stimuli an individual is in or exposed to. Thus, ones decisions are caused the external environment around that certain individual which accounts for ones choice. Eventually, once the psychological evidence is shown, such as operant conditioning and scientific determinism, it becomes a challenge to see how humans are not determined, and that leaves little room for the libertarian perspective to prosper. One other argument against the libertarian perspective of free will and determinism is the explanation that everything has a cause. Where in the natural free word everything that exists is ca used by something; and equivalently ones choices has to have causes and determinism. However a hard determinist philosopher by the name of T. Honderich who wrote an article called A defense of Hard Determinism, disagreed with the libertarian view. He believed that the human mind must be determined, and that the mind should not be separate from the rest of the body, as it has been demonstrated that the mind highly dependent on physical brain activity. Finally, the criticism above has shown that libertarianism is unconvincing and has many poke able holes, as libertarians believe that the mind is in charge of making ones decisions. Ultimately, there are many perspectives that are related to the question of free will being either compatible with determinism or it being incompatible with determinism. From the evidence presented within this paper, hard determinism is the most consistent theory to follow when it comes to the question of free will and determinism. This is because a choice t hat is not under ones control must be determined by something else; and that certain something according to Holbach is either an external or internal force that drives every human being to make certain decisions. Even though it is hard to accept, Holbach explains that humans must accept it because it is the truth. Humans are not free to choose their actions.

Gullivers Travels :: essays research papers

â€Å"GULLIVER’S TRAVELS† a Satire Jonathan Swift, an Anglo-Irish writer, was born in Dublin on the 30th October 1667. he was one of the greatest satirists of the universal literature. His pamphlets have a stinging sarcasm through which he accused moral-political vices or religious ones (ex. â€Å"A Tale of a Tub†, †A Meditation upon a Broomstick†) or pamphlets which defend the Irish cause (â€Å"The Drapiers Letters†). His fame was brought by â€Å"GULLIVER’S TRAVELS†. This is a realistic parody of social dynamic, remarkable for the greatness of its metaphors, consciousness of vision and its style. GULLIVER’S TRAVELS is a satire in four parts as the author himself called it. In the first pages of the book we are told that Gulliver began his voyages as a ship surgeon and afterwards as captain of other ships. The four parts of the book represent four voyages: A Voyage to Lilliput; A Voyage to Brobdingnag; A Voyage to Laputa, Balnibarbi, Glubbdubdrib, Luggnagg and Japan and A Voyage to the Country of the Houyhnhnms. Each of them represents a different type of society and in each of them the object of the author’s irony is different. The first trip satirises the moral and spiritual pettiness of humanity, revealing to the reader the foolish reasons for starting a war between two countries that were once good friends; the absurd rules of society. This six-inch tall people of Book I reveal themselves to be as small morally as they are physically. The revelation of their pettiness comes gradually to the reader. Gulliver’s hosts gossip meanly about each other; they fight over such trivial things as which end of an egg should be broken first; and their king is angry when Gulliver refuses to help him bring a neighbour country into slavery. In this book, number I, we encounter satire on travel books and travellers. Swift is mainly protesting against the ridiculous travellers who report absolutely everything about his trip. Book II â€Å"A Voyage to Brobdingnag† is a satire on the wickedness and vanity of mankind. Gulliver, just recently big in a land of little people, is now little in a land of giants. Although it might be too much to say that in this way Swift prepared the reader to expect that Gulliver won’t live very well in this country, judged by the moral norms of big people; but that is in fact what happens. When the judgement is made, it appears that Gulliver’s race is one of â€Å"little odious vermin†.

Pride and Predjudice - Money and Marriage :: English Literature

The novel Pride and Predjudice is based on money and marriage. Discuss. The novel reflects society at the time in which it was written, womens powerlessness in a patriarichal society. Men dominated all walks of life and expected women to attend their every need. In order to secure a "safe future" for themselves women expended a lot of time and energy learning skills with which to attract a man of substance. Indeed Darcys view was 'A woman must have a thourough knowledge of music, singing, drawing, dancing and the modern languages' an extremely tall order for any one. The major themes of money and marriage are indeed married together in the opening lines of this novel 'It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man, in possession of a large fortune must be in want of a wife'. During this period of time moral themes such as love and respect did not play a pivotal role in marriage. Charlotte Lucas remarks, 'if the dispositions of the parties are ever so well known to eachother it does not advance their felicity in the least and it is better to know as little as possible about the defects of the person with whom you are to pass your life'. In this day a nd age a very strange notion indeed. Charlotte Lucas did not believe that she deserved to be happy in a marriage. When she married Mr. Collins they were strangers and remained so. Marriage in the early nineteenth century was an economic contract and in the case of the Bennet girls a means of financial security and social acceptability. Therefore Mrs. Bennets life revolved around her daughters security, 'The business of her life was to get her daughters married' and, 'A single man of large fortune what a fine thing for our girls'. Mrs. Bennets own marriage was not a happy one. Mr Bennet found retreat in his library. When he first married he was 'captivated by youth and beauty and that appearance of good humour had married a woman whose weak understanding and illiberal mind, had very early in their marriage put an end to real affection.. all his views of domestic happiness were overthrown..' A womans entire social,emotional and economic future depended entirely on how wealthy her husband would be. So time spent in pursuit of a wealthy mate was a matter of survival in the upper class. If you happened to like or love that mate it was a highly beneficial bonus. 'Happiness in a marriage is entirely a matter of chance'. It is sad that three of the marriages in the novel ended up as unhappy unions. The Bennets marriage was based on physical attraction.

Whats Really Good Essay

   (1) (a) One passage from Nouwen I found particularly informative to my learning was from the middle of paragraph one of page 103. Nouwen explains, â€Å"Poverty is the inner disposition that allows us to take away our defenses and convert our enemies into friends. We can only perceive the stranger as an enemy as long as we have something to defend.† Here Nouwen is explaining that a reason for hostility is because we are afraid that others will take away what we have. This can be anything to actual tangent property, or our beliefs of what we are, such as the thought that we are the best math student. We are hesitant to help another student out because we are afraid they may threaten our belief that we are the best student. Nouwen is saying that if we become poor, as in overcome our fear of losing something, we can become great hosts of hospitality. If we are willing to give up everything we have, no longer will strangers become threats. It becomes easier to give and create an open space for our guest to be themselves, once we have invited in poverty and faced the fear of loss. Moving from hostility to hospitality is a major theme of Nouwen’s book. (b) A Christine doctrine implicit in this passage is the doctrine of original sin. Unfortunately, we all believe we can create our own reality and exist as a God in our own right. As a result of this belief we fail to recognize the dignity and commonality in all beings. Our original sin causes us to shun others out believing that we do not need them and can manage sufficiently in isolation. In reality this hurts both ourselves and others from not realizing our interdependent nature. (c) After reading this passage I began to realize how often I do this to other people. I recognized that at times out of selfishness and fear of losing everything I have worked so hard for I view other people as opponents, not as people who inherently deserve respect for being created in the image of God. I then started to ponder how I have felt or would feel if I was viewed by a stranger as enemy for no apparent reason. I discovered how horrible it is that we hold our things and beliefs over the worth and well being of or fellow individuals. It seems so foolish that we would through this. And from this recognition I realized how the marginalized can be used to promote change and growth within myself and others. (2) Loneliness, the longing for deep connection, perfect love and inner peace does give rise to illusion. Nouwen, illustrates, â€Å"It is sad to see how sometimes people suffering from loneliness, often deepened by the lack of affection in their intimate family circle, search for a final solution for their pains and look at a new friend, a new lover, or a new community with Messianic expectations† (Page 30, Par 2). Here is becomes apparent that when people are suffering from loneliness