Latin America Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Latin America - Essay Example Monroe Doctrine was a proof of new American imperialism, which attempted to secure American interests in the Western Hemisphere, as is evident from the speech of President James Monroe, delivered on the occasion of seventh annual meet of the Congress on December 2, 1823. It was made clear to the Western nations that America wanted no outside interference in the political matters of the countries of Western Hemisphere. Actually, the Monroe Doctrine was an indication of American desire to increase its political hold on the Latin countries, being ruled by proxy of the European powers. The purpose of the Doctrine was initially concurrent; it aimed to thwart away the European powers from the region, which later became part of its policy to bring the Latin countries under American impression, irrespective of the feelings of the people of Latin American countries. Things turned for the worse for American interests when the Monroe Doctrine was invoked in 1865 because of military support prov ided by America to the Mexican President Benito Juarez for organizing a successful revolt against the Emperor Maximilian (The Monroe Doctrine 1-2). US Policy Failure It is also contended that the Pan-American movement of the US in the 1880s and 1890s was initiated to secure the commercial stakes of the US. The leader of the movement, James G Blaine, thought that such a movement could help in reducing the European social and political impact and promote undisputed resolution of inter-linked issues of the US with Latin countries. The American attempt to enter into a treaty with eleven Latin countries for the resolution of issues could not succeed as no Latin country ratified the agreement later. Argentina was giving competition to the US to lead the region in the matter of creating economic and political impressions in South America; it boycotted the opening session of the Pan American conference (Hall and Coerver 21). The US wars in the Caribbean region were fought with the aim of ex panding the US impression strategically against Cuba and Puerto Rico. The two ocean issues focused on the significance of an Isthimian canal, increasing US stakes in Central America. The US came to recognize the critical role of the navy, an issue of top concern for the upcoming President Theodore Roosevelt. The expansionary intentions of the US in the Caribbean region created worries even in far-flung countries, as Chile and Argentina, over the US war initiative to get political and economic leverage in the hemisphere. There can be no doubt that the US took only first step in the right direction of freeing a colony, but only to become an expansionary power later. Monroe Doctrine is a proof of American defensive policy turning offensive. The American war paved the path for its becoming a global power, which was incidentally its first phase of aggressiveness through interventionist policy in the aligned area of its stakes (Hall and Coerver 21). Latin American revolutionaries were und er the wrong impression that the US would help their freedom movement but to their dismay, the US approach was cautionary. The government preferred to remain neutral. The US had doubts that any ousting of the European powers from the Hemisphere would lead to democratization of institutions. A policy shift in the US approach was seen only when Monroe became its president, but the US waging a war on Mexico was a planned attack of a powerful nation on

Utilitarianism and Happiness Essay Example for Free

Utilitarianism and Happiness Essay Classical Utilitarianism is a moral philosophy, which was developed in 19th century England by Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill and Henry Sidgwick. The essential feature a utilitarian reside in, is the notion that an action is right if it produces the most amount of happiness well limiting suffering. Utilitarianism focuses solely on the consequences of the action, in an attempt to bring about the most happiness from each situation, well ensuring everybody’s happiness is equally considered. A utilitarian decides each action, by calculating the overall utility (good) that will results against the overall disutility (bad) that will result from a particular action. The action with the highest total net utility will be chosen. Within Utilitarianism there is a division between the conceptions of what is perceived as good; Hedonist Utilitarianism and Preference Utilitarianism. Classical utilitarians believe in Hedonist, were pleasure or happiness is perceives as the only intrinsic good. In modern society most utilitarians believe that the concept of good refers to preferences, and that individual preference satisfaction should be maximized for example artistic creation. There is a further division between utilitarians; Act Utilitarianism and Rule Utilitarianism. Rule Utilitarianism, holds that one should always follow rules that tend to promote the general welfare of humans for example a rule might be not to killing people. Act Utilitarianism holds that one should always act to promote the general welfare. Utilitarianism is plausible firstly because general overall happiness is achieved for the greatest amount of people. Second, because of it simplicity it is easy to determine whether an action is moral or immoral. You simply have to calculate the total utility against the total disutility for each action, and chose the action that will result in the most happiness. Third, the majority of society uses Utilitarianism when they are confronted with daily decisions. For example in peak hour traffic the majority of drivers would let another driver change into their lane, because the other driver obviously needs to change lanes. The other driver is likely to gain more happiness from being let in than the potential unhappiness it will cause you by waiting a few extra second in traffic. Fourth, it is a simply way off living a moral life, were you do not necessary have to be religious to be moral in your decision-making. The strongest objection against Utilitarianism is that it cannot accommodate for moral considerations such as individuals rights and justice. This is because Utilitarianism only considers the consequence of an action. This objection is highlighted in a case concerning an innocent man whose was wrongfully convicted of a crime. In 1974, England, Gerry Conlon was falsely imprisoned, for the bombing of a pub in the town of Guilford, which killed five people. This case raises the issue that the consequences of an action should not be the only things considered when deciding which action to take. If a utilitarian was to view this case critics would argue that a utilitarian would have to conclude that even with, bad consequences resulting from convicting an innocent man, their would overall be more good consequences derived from the peace of mind gained from the loved one of the deceased, as well as the community of Guilford. Critics of Utilitarianism would argue that greater consequences would result in convicting the innocent man, therefore Utilitarianism is unable to regard the importance of justice, this philosophy must therefore be wrong. With the objection that Utilitarianism cannot accommodate for the importance of justice, a utilitarian would address this concern with the response that by choosing the action that results in the best consequences, justice will ultimately be protected. Justice will always be protected even if it is not a utilitarian ultimate purpose. In regards to Gerry Conlon case, a utilitarian would never choose to convict an innocent man of a crime he didn’t commit because, even if more happiness was achieved in the short run through this false conviction, in the long run more unhappiness is likely to result. In the long run the guilty man would be likely to bomb again or commit another crime, also if the liar was discovered then the situation would cause greater disutility than utility, and may result in the dispatch of the justice system, as-well as great upset for the deceased family members who thought the bomber had already been punished. Therefore even though Utilitarianism doesn’t accommodate the moral consideration of justice directly, greater utility will always be created from upholding the justice system. The other aspect of the objection address criticism that Utilitarianism doesn’t accommodating individuals rights, therefore critics believe Utilitarianism must be wrong. A utilitarian would argue that just because rights are not directly considered in relation to the consequences of an action, they do in-fact have some impact on the chosen action. With majority of the population getting happiness out of doing the right thing, rights are often protected through Utilitarianism. For the small minority of people that don’t experience unhappiness from disregarding human rights, the existence of the police force ensures human right are protected from these members of society. With human rights being protected under law, people rights will be upheld under Utilitarianism because there will always be a larger amount of disutility from violating the law than from the personal gains of a human right offender. For example the CEO and CFO of Tyco a New Jersey-based company stole $150 million and inflated Tyco incomes by $500 million, in doing so they violated the rights of investors. After the police discovered this fraud, the justice system penalized both, with a sentence of 8-25 years in prison with the addition of $2. 92 billion paid to Tyco Investors. Under Utilitarianism this case wouldn’t occur because the benefits of stealing this money would never outweigh the consequences that result from being caught for defrauding investors. Therefore even though rights are not considered in the consequence of an action, they have a strong connection with the chosen action. Word- 992Ã'Ž

Animal Testing Should be Reduced :: Animal Testing

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The common belief is that animal testing has accelerated science and medicine a great deal, but the truth is simple: animal experimentation has not cured a single disease. People have been misled into believing that animal experimentation is responsible for many â€Å"miracle cures† and â€Å"medical breakthroughs† for decades. The reason is very straightforward: animals differ from humans greatly—too much to be able to have accurate results from experiments. The only progress with infectious disease made in the 20th century was made through improved nutrition, hygiene, and public sanitation. This is not a result of animal research. In response, many ask this question: what about the polio vaccine? Was it not developed through animal testing? This is one of the biggest lies ever spread throughout the public. The polio vaccine had many problems and did nothing to stop the disease. It was released in the 50’s, a time when polio was alrea dy declining because natural infectious microorganisms have a specific life cycle; they grow and reach a peak—at that point, they start to die off. What proves this is the fact that in areas in the U.S. and in other countries where neither the vaccine nor any other medical help was given, polio died off at the same rate as the places without medical help.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Here is my question to all those pro animal testers out there: if animal testing is so safe, why is it that the FDA is forced to take thousands of pharmaceutical drugs off the shelves after they have been proven â€Å"safe† after animal experimentation? In response, someone may say something such as this: animal testing is better than nothing; besides, they are just beings that do not think or reason. It is true that the main difference between humans and other animals is our ability to think and reason. However, what about those who are mentally challenged? Surely, some animals are smarter than some humans are. Surely there are some humans who cannot think or reason; yet, these people are treated in a special way.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Animals are constantly being tortured while scientists and test conductors claim that the animals are not in pain and given painkillers. However, this is not true. Most tests do cause pain. If you think about it, how can tests trying to see if make-up irritates the eye, not be painful? In addition, these animals are not given anesthetics prior to tests nor any painkillers administered to ease the pain afterward in fear that these drugs may cause inaccurate results in tests.

Islam and Christianity Essay

Prompt: Using the documents, compare and contrast the attitudes of Christianity and Islam toward merchants and trade from the religions origins’ origins until about 1500. Are there indications of change over time in either case, or both? What kinds of additional documents would you need to assess the consequences of these attitudes on merchant activities? During the Post-Classical Era merchants played an incredible role in shaping the course of different societies. Christianity in its origins had a negative view of merchants while Islam was more positive as seen in their religious documents; however by 1500 the two religions had switched their views, Christianity more positive and Islam negative as displayed in the opinions of authorities and the action of merchants. Views on wealth can be seen in the religious documents of each religion. Christianity had its genesis in the first century C.E. and had a negative view of merchants and wealth as stated by Jesus (doc 1) However, this source is just one statement from the Christian scriptures and additional religious documents would be necessary to make a complete thorough argument on Christianity’s views on wealth and merchants. On the other hand Islam which was born in the 7th century C.E. and was more positive in its treatment of wealth if the merchant was honorable (doc 2). As in the case of Christianity it would be necessary to have further passages from the Koran on the issue of wealth and merchants to give a complete picture of Islam’s origins view. However with the sources provided it is clear that Christianity has a more negative view on wealth than Islam at their origins. As time progressed in the Post-Classical Era there were major changes in Islam and Christianity as seen in the discussions of Authorities. Islam had expanded across Afro-Asia and had become very wealthy because of trade in Dhar Al-Islam. On the other hand Christian Europe had entered a Dark-Ages of little trade with the fall of the Roman Empire in the West. However, by 1200 C.E. Europe had come out of the Dark-Ages on its way to the Renaissance. Europe was very interested in wealth and trade. An additional source of trade maps displaying trade wealth in 800 C.E. and 1500 C.E. of Islam and Christianity would help to explain why the views of the religions were changing. This change can be seen in Reginald’s writing about St. Godric in the 12th century C.E. Godric is a saint recognized by the church because he helped with his wealth  acquired by being a merchant. Godric used his wealth for good as a result one could argue that wealth acquired is not evil as long as it used well. It is important to note that Reginald is a colleague of St. Godric and he could be biased causing Godric to look better than he really was. This could change the use of this document because the information may not be completely valid (doc 3). Showing the change in Christianity is Aquinas’ argument in the 13th century C.E. He argues against being dishonest in trade and wealth. He does not condemn wealth and trade just negative ways to conduct trade (doc 4). This brings Christianity very close to Muhammad’s statements in the Koran. Islam on the hand was more negative in its view of merchants. Ibn Khaldun argues that no merchant can be a true honest man. Yet he still has to concede that trade is necessary (doc 5). This source could be biased because it occurred after the fall of the Abassid Empire and the problems with wealth and opulence that had plagued the Islamic world; moreover he could be an Ulama and had a strict view of Islam. As a result it could not portray what other scholars believed a t the time. This negative Islamic view can also be seen in the court decision of the 17th century C.E. in the verdict is against a merchant (doc 7). It is clear that Islam is closer to Christianities original views on Merchants and Christianity is becoming more positive. The views of Merchants provides a clear change. In the 13th century C.E. Christian merchants are engaged in using religious terms promoting trade. Even a mother of a rich merchant advises him to be thankful but not too greedy. Again this is very close to Islam’s original position on the issue. This document could be biased because it is merchants writing and the words of a mother. Neither of these people would be negative on themselves or loved ones. As a result this could exaggerate the practice of Christian in merchants and trade (doc 6). An additional source of different merchants writings would be good to see if all merchants used Christianity to sanction their actions. Moreover it would be good to have other Islamic merchants in writings than just document 7. This would give a better view of Islamic merchant actions around 1500 C.E. By 1500 C.E. it is clear that Christianity had become more in-line to Islam’s original views on merchants and Islam was more in-line to Christianity’s origins.

Drama Monologue – Blame It on the Dreams

Ever wish you could control your dreams? You know, you go to sleep and dream about whatever you want? Sometimes I think I could really FIX things if I could just dream them right. I guess that sounds pretty stupid. Like last week I had this huge test in English. I really like English, but there's so much to remember. I failed. And I know that stuff. That’s what makes me so mad. Who cares, right? It’s just a stupid test. But, here’s the thing. The night before, I dreamt I passed the test. I got an A. I remember sitting at the table, and I knew everything!Every vowel, every sentence, every character. They were all there. Floating around me like birds, or something. I didn’t end up seeing the answers, but I remember getting an A. Okay. Granted, there was a lobster sitting in the seat next to me, but it was a dream, remember. I heard about this thing called lucid dreaming. You’re meant to lie really still for as long as you can until you fall asleep, or something. Well, that sounds way too hard. I mean, I can’t sit still for five minutes, let alone lie still until I fall asleep. Sleep doesn’t just happen.You get into your PJ’s, get into bed, get all snuggly and warm, and then your brain decides to turn itself on and shout, â€Å"WOULDN’T THIS BE COOL IF THIS HAPPENED. I WONDER WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF THIS HAPPENED, OR EVEN THI–oh, you didn’t want to sleep, did you? † Yes, brain. Yes, I do. But, seriously, wouldn’t it be cool to control your dreams? You could dream about, oh I don’t know†¦ Marrying the richest person in the world and buying an island? That’d be nice. Unrealistic. But, nice. You could lay there for hours and hours just thinking about what you want to dream about?I could try that? Pony, pony, pony, pony, pony, pony, pony, pony, pony, po – oh, bother this. This won’t work. What was I thinking? This is all because of that stupid test. I hate failure. I hate it. If only there was a way to guarantee that you’d know the answers to every test you had to take in your life. I could cheat? No! Gosh, what was I thinking? I can’t cheat. I haven’t got a marker to write the answers on my stomach. *sigh* Stupid idea. I could get a marker? Argh! Wrong again. Where on earth would I get a marker that only I could see?That’s a cool idea. I wish I could dream about that. I just wish I knew how to pass every single test ever. *sigh* Hang on†¦ What if I study? I could study for a few hours every night, the week before the test? Ha! It’s brilliant. I can’t believe I never listened to my parents! They were right! I can’t wait to get started. I’ll start first thing tomorrow. I guess I’ll never be able to control my dreams. Oh well. *turns around and looks at ‘bed’* Is that me? But†¦ I’m me? How can I be laying there? I’m so confused, w hat’s going on? Wait†¦ Am I dreaming?

Molières Death and the Color Green

Molià ¨re's Death and the Color Green Whether or not you are an actor, you probably know that it is considered bad luck to say Good luck to a performer. Instead, you should say, Break a leg! And if you have brushed up on your Shakespeare, then you already know that it could be disastrous to say Macbeth out loud while in a theater. To avoid being cursed, you should instead refer to it as the Scottish play. Unlucky to Wear the Color Green? However, many do not realize that it is unlucky for actors to wear the color green. Why? It is all because of the life and death of Frances greatest playwright, Molià ¨re. Molià ¨re His real name was Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, but he was most famous for his stage name, Molià ¨re. He attained success as an actor in his early twenties and soon found that he had a talent for writing stage plays. Although he preferred tragedies, he became renowned for his hilarious satires. Tartuffe was one of his more scandalous plays. This vicious farce mocked the church and caused an uproar among Frances religious community. Controversial Plays   Another controversial play, Don Juan or The Feast with a Statue, mocked society and religion so severely that it was not performed uncensored until 1884, over two hundred years after its creation. But in some ways, Molià ¨res demise is even more intense than his plays. He had been suffering from tuberculosis for several years. However, he did not want the illness to prevent his artistic pursuits. His final play was The Imaginary Invalid. Ironically, Molià ¨re played the central character - the hypochondriac. Royal Performance   During a royal performance before King Louis the 14th, Molià ¨re began to cough and gasp. The performance was stalled momentarily, but Molià ¨re insisted that he continue. He bravely made it through the rest of the play, despite collapsing once more and suffering a hemorrhage. Hours later, after returning home, Molià ¨res life slipped away. Perhaps due to his reputation, two clergymen refused to administer his last rites. So, when he died, a rumor spread that Molià ¨res soul did not make it into the Pearly Gates. Molià ¨res costume - the clothing that he died in - was green. And since that time, actors have maintained the superstition that it is highly unlucky to wear green while on-stage.

How to Manipulate INI files from Delphi

How to Manipulate INI files from Delphi INI files are text-based files used for storing an applications configuration data. Even though Windows recommends using the Windows Registry to store application-specific configuration data, in many cases, youll find that INI files provide a quicker way for the program to access its settings. Windows itself even uses INI files;  desktop.ini  and boot.ini  being just two examples. One simple use of INI files  as a status saving mechanism would be to save the size and location of a form if you want a form to reappear at its previous position. Instead of searching through a whole database of information to find the size or location, an INI file is used instead. The INI File Format Initialization or Configuration Settings file (.INI) is a text file with a 64 KB limit divided into sections, each containing zero or more keys. Each key contains zero or more values. Heres an example: [SectionName] keyname1value ;comment keyname2value Section names are enclosed in square brackets and must begin at the beginning of a line. Section and key names are case-insensitive (the case doesnt matter), and cannot contain spacing characters. The key name is followed by an equal sign (), optionally surrounded by spacing characters, which are ignored. If the same section appears more than once in the same file, or if the same key appears more than once in the same section, then the last occurrence prevails. A key can contain string, integer, or boolean value.​ Delphi IDE uses the INI file format in many cases. For example, .DSK files (desktop settings) utilize the INI format. TIniFile Class Delphi provides the TIniFile class, declared in the inifiles.pas unit, with methods to store and retrieve values from INI files. Prior to working with the TIniFile methods, you need to create an instance of the class: uses inifiles; ... var   Ã‚  IniFile : TIniFile; begin   Ã‚  IniFile : TIniFile.Create(myapp.ini) ; The above code creates an IniFile object and assigns myapp.ini to the only property of the class - the FileName property - used to specify the name of the INI file you are to use. The code as written above looks  for the myapp.ini file in the \Windows directory. A better way to store application data is in the applications folder - just specify the full pathname of the file for the Create method: // place the INI in the application folder, // let it have the application name // and ini for extension: iniFile : TIniFile.Create(ChangeFileExt(Application.ExeName,.ini)) ; Reading From INI The TIniFile class has several read methods. The ReadString reads a string value from a key, ReadInteger. ReadFloat and similar are used to read a number from a key. All read methods have a default value that can be used if the entry does not exist. For example, the ReadString is declared as: function ReadString(const Section, Ident, Default: String): String; override; Write to INI The TIniFile has a corresponding write method for each read method. They are WriteString, WriteBool, WriteInteger, etc. For example, if we want a program to remember the name of the last person who used it, when it was, and what the main form coordinates were, we might establish a section called Users, a keyword called Last, Date  to track the information, and a section called Placement  with keys Top,  Left,  Width, and Height. project1.ini   [User]   LastZarko Gajic   Date01/29/2009   [Placement]   Top20   Left35   Width500   Height340 Note that the key named Last holds a string value, Date holds a TDateTime value, and all keys in the Placement section hold an integer value. The OnCreate event of the main form is the perfect place to store the code needed to access the values in the applications initialization file: procedure TMainForm.FormCreate(Sender: TObject) ; var   Ã‚  appINI : TIniFile;   Ã‚  LastUser : string;   Ã‚  LastDate : TDateTime; begin   Ã‚  appINI : TIniFile.Create(ChangeFileExt(Application.ExeName,.ini)) ;   Ã‚  try   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  //if no last user return an empty string   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  LastUser : appINI.ReadString(User,Last,) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  //if no last date return todays date   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  LastDate : appINI.ReadDate(User, Date, Date) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  //show the message   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  ShowMessage(This program was previously used by LastUser on DateToStr(LastDate));   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Top : appINI.ReadInteger(Placement,Top, Top) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Left : appINI.ReadInteger(Placement,Left, Left);   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Width : appINI.ReadInteger(Placement,Width, Width);   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Height : appINI.ReadInteger(Placement,Height, Height);   Ã‚  finally   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  appINI.Free;   Ã‚  end; end; The main forms OnClose event is ideal for the Save INI part of the project. procedure TMainForm.FormClose(Sender: TObject; var Action: TCloseAction) ; var   Ã‚  appINI : TIniFile; begin   Ã‚  appINI : TIniFile.Create(ChangeFileExt(Application.ExeName,.ini)) ; try   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  appINI.WriteString(User,Last,Zarko Gajic) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  appINI.WriteDate(User, Date, Date) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  with appINI, MainForm do   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  begin   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  WriteInteger(Placement,Top, Top) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  WriteInteger(Placement,Left, Left) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  WriteInteger(Placement,Width, Width) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  WriteInteger(Placement,Height, Height) ;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  end;   Ã‚  finally   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  appIni.Free;   Ã‚  end; end; INI Sections The EraseSection erases an entire section of an INI file. ReadSection and ReadSections fill  a TStringList object with the names of all sections (and key names) in the INI file. INI Limitations Downsides The TIniFile class uses the Windows API  which imposes a limit of 64 KB on INI files. If you need to store more than 64 KB of data, you should use the TMemIniFile. Another problem might arise if you have a section with more than 8 K value. One way to solve the problem is to write your own version of the ReadSection method.

How to Write a Financial Case Study

How to Write a Financial Case Study How to Write a Financial Case Study A financial case study is important in that it helps the finances student as well as financial practitioners in the mastery of the elements described in financial planning standards. The procedure used in writing a financial case study is one of the simplest to follow. This is primarily because it basically consists of specified figures, hence, simplicity. The initial step in the writing of a financial case study involves evaluating a client’s financial situation and identifying specific goals as well as stating the objective of the case study, which might be to avoid the mismanagement of funds for a particular individual or an organization, for example. The second step is to determine the main areas that are to be addressed in a financial plan. Later, the writing of a plan will include the methods that will be used in order to maintain cash flow while minimizing its wastage. The fourth step is the identification of any additional data that could be useful in the establishment of a financial plan. Lastly, various strategies are utilized and recommendations given in the financial plan to satisfactorily address the user’s needs. It is of crucial importance to follow the careful structure of a financial case study when composing its draft or outline. This will affect the logic and flow of narration in the paper. No matter which topic you select to explore, no structural component can be omitted. It is sometimes also important to receive feedback from your supervisor or scientific advisor on the initial stage of researching. This will help to direct your work in an appropriate manner. Additionally, be certain to proofread, edit, and double-spellcheck your composed paper before submitting it. A poorly written paper containing mistakes and other flaws will hardly earn a high grade. Finally, be aware of plagiarism! This is a very serious issue that may lead to major negative consequences affecting your academic career. Properly cite all sources used in your financial case study to ensure that you have not stolen somebodys words, ideas, or research, be it in print, online, or in some other format. Composing a financial case study is quite a complicated matter, so one can sometimes find it difficult to handle especially if one lacks time, skills, and subject knowledge. Still, this is not a reason to lose heart. You can always depend on the professional help of a custom writing company. These days, you may choose one from a wide range of online agencies and entrust your financial case study to their writers. Do not doubt that your paper will be composed and submitted to you by a given deadline and according to your specified requirements. Academic writers at can provide you with quality Finance case study help starting at $13/page. We guarantee non-plagiarized custom case studies with timely delivery.

Check instruction Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Check instruction - Essay Example 324). Islam had spread wide across the horn of Africa and the countries that lie north within two generations. Islam has been in African continent for many years since the formation of Arabian Peninsula. Although Sunni makes up the largest number of African Muslims, the complexity of African Islam is revealed in May schools of thought. Islam is not stagnant; it is constantly undergoing changes forced by economic, social and political conditions surrounding it. African Islam is commonly adapted to beliefs and cultural context of the local’s orthodoxies. Additions, both global and local; dimensions, are posed by Islam. The African Muslims mainly belong to the Sunni denomination. Despite this domination, a significant number of both the Shias and Ahmadiyya are also present. Many Sufis are known to be syncretic, and they practice Sufism with traditional folklore beliefs. Salafism is new, and it has started spreading in Africa due to many organizations and

Welfare and Poverty in America Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Welfare and Poverty in America - Essay Example This is because of the particular socio political situation exists in that country. For an understanding of the welfare measures and poverty in America, we have to discuss the history of America from its existence. America was a land of large animals. Human beings entered this land for hunting these animals. The first people reached North America did not realized that they had crossed into a new continent. They had been following hunting entertainment which their ancestors had for thousands of years, along the Siberian coast and then across the land bridge. It takes thousands of years for North Americans to construct a new land which is now known as United States. Evidence of early life in North America continues to be found. Little of it, however, can be reliably dated before 12,000 B.C.; a recent discovery of a hunting lookout in northern Alaska, for example, may date from almost that time. So too may the finely crafted spear points and items found near Clovis, New Mexico. It is believed that life was established in North and South America prior to 10,000 BC. Slowly people started agricultural practices in this land. The Native Americans started cultivating corn, squash and beans in 8,000 BC in Central Mexico. Slowly this had spread to northern parts. Adenans are said to be the first Native American group. They construct shelter around 600 BC. Of late these Adenans were replaced by various groups called Hopewellians. There centre of activities were around Southern Ohio. These groups are considered to be traders and exchanged tools and materials in wide range of area. By A D 500, These Hopewellians disappeared and appeared Mississippians. They had expertise in hunting, foraging, trading, and agriculture for their food and supplies. Influenced by the thriving societies to the south, they evolved into complex hierarchical

An Option to Overcome Water Scarcity and Environmental Issues Essay

An Option to Overcome Water Scarcity and Environmental Issues - Essay Example However, â€Å"75 percent† of water derives from Northern parts whereas â€Å"80 percent† demand occurs from Southern and coastal California (2). Thus, it transpires that if the resourcing from Northern part is stopped, Southern California will have a water crisis. The population of California, estimated at â€Å"38 million in January 2008† is predicted to climb up to â€Å"59.5 million by 2050† (2). Therefore, in the future, the demand of water for Southern California will multiply. Thus, there is a need to assess the water requirements as well as finding solutions to resolve problem in areas that face scarcity. Two Faulty Arguments on Wasting Water: Water, though a natural resource that humans get easily and sometimes freely, is a very precious element for attaining progress in all areas including economic development. However, people tend to ignore this fact and do not care to preserve water or use their water resources sparingly. Thus, most people make a faulty assumption that paying water bills bestows on them the right to waste water. This argument is not tenable as there are many people who confront the acute shortage of water and they can perhaps subsist on the droplets that others unnecessarily waste. People think that water is an element that is abundantly available on earth and, therefore, they possess the discretion to use it as much as they want. This contention is not correct as resources, no matter how abundant they may appear, will exhaust through overconsumption. Increasing population is a major concern in all countries across the globe, with increased age expectancy as a result of advanced technologies in healthcare and medicine. Thus, people need to acknowledge the demand of future generations before using water beyond a reasonable limit. Besides, several emerging threats such as climate changes and global warming can cause severe draughts in the future. Thus, people must take into account these factors before pres uming that they can waste water as it is abundantly available at the moment. The Need for Replacing Lawns with Xeriscaped Gardens: Lawns need regular watering, mowing, manicuring and fertilizing for their upkeep and maintenance. Besides, to keep them safe from pests and other insects, they also demand the use of pesticides at frequent intervals. The government or local authorities, on many occasions, impose restrictions on the use of water as a result of drought conditions. On such occasions it becomes extremely difficult for people to maintain their lawns. Thus, the maintenance of lawns entails major concerns both in terms of scarcity as well as wastage of water. Research evidence suggests that a yard size of 25 x 40 consumes up to â€Å"1000 gallons of water† in summers (Ratliff 40). The same research also finds that lawns in the US consume over â€Å"70 million pounds of pesticides† in their tending and some of it â€Å"seeps into groundwater,† posing threat to both humans and wildlife (40). Lawn mowers also cause air pollution. Thus, when one considers the problems entailing from lawn maintenance, it appears that such landscaping, while provides homes an aesthetic appeal, comes with a lot negative impact on human life. Therefore, several environmentalists argue that lawns symbolize â€Å"wasteful disregard for the biosphere† (40). On the other hand, many people support the concept of natural landscaping, which, they believe, has many advantages. Proponents of this concept contend it reduces water wastage as well as the usage of pesticides considerably. Sandra Walk, a landscape architect, never installs turfs and she promotes the use of

Data Analyses Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Data Analyses - Research Paper Example Almost 95 % a vast majority turned out to be as a full time student with only 5 % studying as part time students. When question was asked regarding their drinking habit on campus 48 respondents out of 58 said that they don’t drink on campus however 9 respondents said they rarely drink on campus where as only 1 respondent said that he/she drink occasionally. When respondents were asked regarding bar on campus and how would it affect the school’s social atmosphere and help in reducing the stress amongst students? The answers were of split nature few endorsing it few going against it and few chose air of finality or stayed neutral. The facts and figures regarding this question are, 17 respondents strongly opposing the idea of campus on bar on the other hand 11 respondents were strongly supporting this idea. Furthermore 6 respondents believe that its impacts would not turn out to be fruitful so they opposed it by demonstrating and marking no in questionnaire however 20.7 % (12 respondents) were unsure so they remained neutral. The final 12 respondents out of 58 were confident that bar on campus will help students to reduce stress and there is no harm in it. 16 students out of 58 were confident about allowing 2 drinks per day which also makes them majority, however 15 respondents believe that only one drink should be allowed per day, 11 respondents have different ideas they believe that this intake should be raise up to 3 drinks per day while 13 respondents were against all restriction claiming that there should be no limit on drinking per day for students. There were quite a few alternatives that come across while performing research. The first and foremost was that the school should focus on promoting sports and other extracurricular activities rather than opening bar on campus as this will shift students focus towards other things, another alternative was regarding

Meth Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Meth Study - Essay Example Hence in a long term user of methamphetamine, there is the likelihood of having experienced methamphetamine in its various forms (Christophersen, 2000) Methamphetamine can be administered through several routes inclusive of smoking, snorting, orally and intravenously using its crystalline form (Methamphetamine Information: history of methamphetamine). Effects of methamphetamine use could vary depending on the route of administration. For example when crystalline form of methamphetamine is used intravenously, there is a rapid increase in blood pressure. Repeated intravenous use of methamphetamine could thus enhance the risk of arteriosclerosis (Berankova, Habrdova, Balikova & Strejc, 2005) These two factors increase the relevance of the history of the misuse of methamphetamine in a long term user, in studies related to methamphetamine misuse. This is the main limitation in methamphetamine misuse studies, as reliable history may not be available. According to Colfax (2005), confusion is demonstrated by individuals addicted to methamphetamine. This means that reliable history of misuse cannot be got from the concerned individual. Tests and analysis of blood and urine are not capable of providing sufficient information relating to the history of the misuse. This limitation on the availability of sufficient and reliable information makes it difficult to correlate reliably the results available to the toxic effects demonstrated by the long term use of methamphetamine (Berankova, Habrdova, Balikova & Strejc, 2005) Ferri (2006), points out that methamphetamine has a highly and almost immediate addictive nature. Animal studies confirm the highly addictive nature of methamphetamine and indicate the effects of the long term use of methamphetamine. Results from animal findings have led to the hypothesis that long term use of methamphetamine causes reduction in the dopaminergic activity. This drop in dopaminergic activity is believed to be due the

Project management - TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES Essay

Project management - TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES - Essay Example  ·   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Budget of the project covers financial aspect of the project.  ·   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Stakeholder analysis covers the interest of individuals and associations who may get affected by the project.  ·   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Internal control & contingency plan covers the alternative plan to address risk factors associated with the project.  ·   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Equipments needed in different phases of the project are being also covered in project scope statement.  ·   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Internal or external people requirements covers total human capital will be needed in the project. Explanation In context to marketing project, first phase of project scope statement starts with understanding client requirements. In client requirement statements, clients specify their expectations such as expanding distribution channel, asset integrity, establishing new infrastructure etc. In the project scope statement, next comes Contract penalties where is being mentioned. In regulatory controls, legal obligations, government policies and environmental policies regarding the project is being analyzed. In marketing projects, regulatory control section covers legal issues regarding advertising policies, product quality standards, environment standards regarding supply chain activities etc. In budget control section, issues regarding financial capital is being required in required in the advertising promotion, variable cost associated with the operation, cost of supply of resources for different marketing activities are being discussed. In project scope statement of marketing projects, stakeholder analysis covers the probable individuals and associations who will take interest or may get affected by the execution of the project. In Internal control & contingency plan for marketing projects, operational control over advertising activities, human resource movement, assessing risk of project failure and plan to mitigate risks are being discussed. In case o f Equipments needed, marketing project manager design the plan for how many print material, TV commercial broadcasting, sales promotion materials, billboards, signage etc are being needed in the project. In case of project scope statement of marketing project, Internal or external people requirements cover total marketing employees are needed to execute the project and total numbers of external workers should be recruited to execute the marketing project. Mendelow’s Matrix can be used to understand stakeholder requirements regarding event management and marketing campaign of the client.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Table 2: Stakeholder Analysis (Mendelow’s Matrix) Stakeholder Power Index Low UK based customers who will buy retail merchandises of the German discount retailer. Project workers and marketing department of the client and in case of lack of understanding regarding among project members regarding project deliverables, they might create resistance in proposed marketing activities. High Top level management of the retail giant and regional heads of UK division. Financial organization that will provide capital support to client to fulfil its strategic objectives. Supply chain and investment partners might exercise their power in future circumstances. Low High Probability of power exercising Product scope description: in UK, the client offers huge range of product portfolio such as bakery items, beverages,

Meth Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Meth Study - Essay Example Hence in a long term user of methamphetamine, there is the likelihood of having experienced methamphetamine in its various forms (Christophersen, 2000) Methamphetamine can be administered through several routes inclusive of smoking, snorting, orally and intravenously using its crystalline form (Methamphetamine Information: history of methamphetamine). Effects of methamphetamine use could vary depending on the route of administration. For example when crystalline form of methamphetamine is used intravenously, there is a rapid increase in blood pressure. Repeated intravenous use of methamphetamine could thus enhance the risk of arteriosclerosis (Berankova, Habrdova, Balikova & Strejc, 2005) These two factors increase the relevance of the history of the misuse of methamphetamine in a long term user, in studies related to methamphetamine misuse. This is the main limitation in methamphetamine misuse studies, as reliable history may not be available. According to Colfax (2005), confusion is demonstrated by individuals addicted to methamphetamine. This means that reliable history of misuse cannot be got from the concerned individual. Tests and analysis of blood and urine are not capable of providing sufficient information relating to the history of the misuse. This limitation on the availability of sufficient and reliable information makes it difficult to correlate reliably the results available to the toxic effects demonstrated by the long term use of methamphetamine (Berankova, Habrdova, Balikova & Strejc, 2005) Ferri (2006), points out that methamphetamine has a highly and almost immediate addictive nature. Animal studies confirm the highly addictive nature of methamphetamine and indicate the effects of the long term use of methamphetamine. Results from animal findings have led to the hypothesis that long term use of methamphetamine causes reduction in the dopaminergic activity. This drop in dopaminergic activity is believed to be due the

The Acute Care for Elders Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Acute Care for Elders - Essay Example This figure translates to an increasing expenditure on health care to the point of divesting budget from other social services. Statistics show that 10% to 12% of the total health care budget is spent for the aged (CSHRF, 2004). This population also accounts for 13% of the country's total hospitalization (Amador et al, 2007). This scenario brings us to the question of "how can the cost of dying be reduced so that the aged and terminal patients opt for spending their last days in care of any kind to reap the maximum benefit in producing a successful, healthy, productive and active aging". One of the popular responses to the growing economic cost of dying is the removal of "aggressive life-sustaining interventions for dying patients" (Ezekiel J. Emanuel, 1994). The use of pre-need plans such as Medicare is already very much popular. In this paper, we ascertain as to what degree they are used by the patients. This forms essential part of the economic cost of dying as pre-need plans is a form of savings for death. Amador, L.F., Reed, D. and Lehman, C.A. (2007). The acute care for Elders: Taking the rehabilitation model into the Hospital setting. Rehabilitation Nursing, Vol. 32, No. 3, p. 126-132. ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Source. CSHRF Canadian Health Services Research Foundation, (2004

The American revolution Essay Example for Free

The American revolution Essay One of the major reasons why the American Revolution started was because of the fact that the British were not including the Americans in the decisions that were being taken for the taxation proceeds from the citizens the Americans who felt that they were not being asked to participate in important decisions (Blanco 757). The seeds for revolt were planted by the resentment at the non-inclusion at the decision making process given the fact that the Americans felt that they made significant contributions to the coffers of the British. America, at this point, was willing to wage war in order to be properly represented and to be allowed to take part in the decision making process (Blanco 757). It had now become a common sentiment among the Americans that there were so many things that they felt had to be done but were left unresolved due to their exclusion. America went to war not to prove that they were stronger but rather they went to war in order to set things right. America wanted to help the people in living an unsuppressed life and this is why they fought for independence. According to a Richard Blanco, â€Å"The most radical impact was the sense that all men have an equal voice in government and that inherited status carried no political weight in the new republic. The rights of the people were incorporated into state constitutions. Thus came the widespread assertion of liberty, individual rights, equality and hostility toward corruption which would prove core values of republicanism to Americans. (702)† This means that according to some sources, the American Revolution had a greater impact on the world because it was the first who had fought against the British rule and ensured independence for itself. The American Revolution was the one that began the trend of ambushing the British and taking over their own country so that they can rule it in the right way and so that they can also allow the public to be a part of the decisions that are going to be made by the government. This was a major victory for America and this is why they celebrate such an occasion.

The Gang Issue of America Essay -- Legal Issues, Crimes

Gangs are very dangerous to everyone in society. â€Å"Gangs are groups of people (mostly young males) who band together for protection and a sense of belonging. The U.S. Department of Justice officially defines a youth gang as a group of young people involved in criminal activity† (Gangs 1). About one million gang members are in more than 20,000 criminally active gangs in the United States. Also, that group of about one million people is accountable for up to eighty percent of our nation’s crimes. Since 2005, gangs have nationally added about 200,000 members to the already high total (Targeting Gangs 1). This is why more action from the community needs to be taken to help with the growing gang-related crimes here in America. Additionally, what kinds of people are in gangs? To begin with, Latinos make up forty-nine percent of gang member population; African-Americans, thirty-four percent; White, ten percent; Asian, six percent; and the other one percent is just the â€Å"other† category (â€Å"Facts About Gangs† 109). Also in 1996, the National Youth Gang Survey stated that members of gangs were fifty percent adolescents (under eighteen years of age) and fifty percent were adults (eighteen or older). In that survey during 2006, the number of juveniles dropped to only being thirty-six and one half percent of members, on the other hand, the percentage of adult gang members consisted of sixty-three and one half percent of the gang population (Gangs 1-2). Gang members wear similar types of clothing; which is a T-shirt, tennis shoes, and either nicely creased blue jeans or khaki Dickies (baggy men's pants or shorts). Also a member usually has a patterned bandana hanging out of his back pocket; also around his pants is a cloth belt that almost re... ... possible that gangs and gang violence will be stopped completely. With help from the communities in every city and town it is possible to stop and decrease the excessive number of gang members and gang-related crimes. We need to remember that there are many possible ways to help decrease the population size of gangs in America. Some different alternatives to being in a gang are alternatives in the school and community, educational programs for parents and children, and arresting some hard-core gang members and leaders. It is necessary for the safety of the future American citizens to start the process of controlling and containing gangs now. Without helping stop gang membership, America will become more violent and dangerous for innocent people. This is why more action from the community needs to be taken to help with the growing gang-related crimes in America.

My Dream Computer :: essays research papers

My Dream Computer   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  After perusing the isles amongst isles of desktop computers at CompUSA I found myself drawn to the Sony desktops. SONY is a high quality brand name and has shown me throughout the years that anything and everything they create seems to be a winner. Eventually I decided to get one that was practical in size and powerful enough to handle the most strenuous projects. I ended up decide ding on the Sony VAIO RA834G Minitower. The components in this PC were more than I needed for a price I just couldn’t resist.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This particular computer also intrigued me because of its processor. The processor is a common one, an Intel Pentium 4. I like that Sony decided to stick with Intel, since they are an American brand. The exact processor they used is the Intel Pentium 4 3.6Ghz 560J with HT Technology. The Hyper threading technology is very helpful and I’m glad they decided to use it because it really makes multi-tasking even with complex software faster and more efficient and significantly cuts down on the lag. The 3.6 Gigahertz processor is very very fast and can handle even the most multifaceted functions. The bus speed is also very impressive coming out with a total of 800 solid Megahertz’s. This is an extremely fast bus speed considering it only has one successor the 1066 Mhz speed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The motherboard chipset also is made by Intel. It is a well put together chipset that runs very well with the ram chosen for this computer. Sony chose the Intel 915P Express Chipset which runs the PC3200 DDR SDRAM at an harmonious 400 Mhz. I was also very excited that they chose the Double Data Ram as oppose to the normal SDRAM. The computer comes with a 1GB stick of ram, however, I am going to add another stick of Kingston 1Gb ram to max out the ram capacity at 2 gigabytes. And since it’s DDR its going to be running like it has 4GB’s of SDRAM.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The hard drive is a very hefty one with almost 400 gigabytes of space. However after researching the PC closer I learned that it actually contains two 160GB drives configured with RAID 0. The two drives both run at 7,200 RPM’s which is also pretty good.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I also picked this computer because it has a long list of card slots that would work perfectly with any type of media I might need to use.

Factors and Hazards of Infant Development Essay

Author’s note: This essay is a summary of my beliefs of the three most hazards factors in the early stages of Infant Development. This essay is for Mrs. Hacker’s EC100/EEC1700 Section 07 Foundations of Child Development Course. Factors and Hazards of Infant Development There is nothing more precious in life, than hearing your baby heartbeat or feeling it kick for the first time. Mothers and fathers to be should be aware of various hazards that can play a major factor in the development of their infant. The three factors that I feel are the most hazardous are alcohol, smoking, and drugs of any kind. In this essay, I will try to explain to you why these factors are very important to be avoided before and during pregnancy. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can have serious consequences for mother and the developing fetus (O’ Leary et al., 2010). If a mother is consuming alcohol during pregnancy she can have a miscarriage, stillbirth, low-birth weight, or a premature infant (ACP CS-EBK for Developmental Profiles, pg. 58). A developing fetus consumes whatever the mother puts into her mouth and body. Alcohol is a teratogen that has irreversible effects on infant development. There are several birth defects that a mother who drinks should be aware of; they are fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASDs) fetal alcohol syndrome, hyperactivity, heart defects, facial deformities, and speech impairment (Ismail et al., 2010). A mother who drinks mild alcohol during pregnancy could cause their infant to suffer from fetal alcohol effect. Infants with this effect suffer from learning and behavior disorders. It is very important that a mother to be does not consume alcohol. If you care about your baby well-being do not drink during pregnancy. Smoking is a bad habit that’s hard to kick once started. Smoking is dangerous for pregnant women, kids, men, and women. Smoking can damage the lungs of the smoker, and also cause lung cancer to those who smoke for long periods of time. Many pregnant women continue to smoke despite the warning on the U.S. Surgeon General label. Maternal smoking has been linked to many fetal malformations and birth complications (Ashford et al., 2010). Cigarette smoke contains harmful substances, which can harm a person body. These harmful substances are nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. All the substances can harm an undeveloped fetus if consumed throughout pregnancy. Mothers who smoke during birth are at risk for having infants who suffer from asthma, allergies, and it can cause SIDS. Prescription and nonprescription medications, pesticides, fertilizer, and street drugs are very dangerous during pregnancy (Mattison, 2010). These drugs and chemicals can have many adverse effects on developing fetuses. It can cause SIDS, miscarriages, stillbirth, and numerous birth deformities to the undeveloped fetus. Drugs of any kind should be avoided during pregnancy, to ensure a better chance of having a healthy fetus. There are many reasons a mother to be should be cautious about the environment and the things she consumes during pregnancy. The best care a mother to be can give to her undeveloped fetus is to eat right, get adequate rest, and regular check-ups, which can better ensure the birth of a beautiful, healthy baby. References Ashford, K., Hahn, E., Hall, L., Rayens, M., Noland, M., & Ferguson, J. (2010).The Effects of prenatal secondhand smoke exposure on preterm birth and neonatal outcomes, Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing, 39(5), 525–535. Mattison, D. (2010). Environmental exposures and development, Current Opinion in Pediatrics, 22(2), 208–218. O’Leary, C., Nassar, N., Kurinczuk, J., de Klerk, N., Geelhoed, E., Elliott, E., & Bower, C (2010). Prenatal alcohol exposure and risk of birth defects, Pediatrics, 1 26(4), E843– E850.

Canterville Ghost Chapter 1 Summary Essay

When Mr. Hiram B. Otis, the American Minister, bought Canterville Chase, every one told him he was doing a very foolish thing, as there was no doubt at all that the place was haunted. Indeed, Lord Canterville himself, who was a man of the most punctilious honour, had felt it his duty to mention the fact to Mr. Otis when they came to discuss terms. ‘We have not cared to live in the place ourselves,’ said Lord Canterville, ‘since my grand-aunt, the Dowager Duchess of Bolton, was frightened into a fit, from which she never really recovered, by two skeleton hands being placed on her shoulders as she was dressing for dinner, and I feel bound to tell you, Mr. Otis, that the ghost has been seen by several living members of my family, as well as by the rector of the parish, the Rev. Augustus Dampier, who is a Fellow of King’s College, Cambridge. After the unfortunate accident to the Duchess, none of our younger servants would stay with us, and Lady Canterville often got very little sleep at night, in consequence of the mysterious noises that came from the corridor and the library.’ ‘My Lord,’ answered the Minister, ‘I will take the furniture and the ghost at a valuation. I come from a modern country, where we have everything that money can buy; and with all our spry young fellows painting the Old World red, and carrying off your best actors and prima-donnas, I reckon that if there were such a thing as a ghost in Europe, we’d have it at home in a very short time in one of our public museums, or on the road as a show.’ ‘I fear that the ghost exists,’ said Lord Canterville, smiling, ‘though it may have resisted the overtures of your enterprising impresarios. It has been well known for three centuries, since 1584 in fact, and always makes its appearance before the death of any member of our family.’ ‘Well, so does the family doctor for that matter, Lord Canterville. But there is no such thing, sir, as a ghost, and I guess the laws of Nature are not going to be suspended for the British aristocracy.’ ‘You are certainly very natural in America,’ answered Lord Canterville, who did not quite understand Mr. Otis’ last observation, ‘and if you don’t mind a ghost in the house, it is all right. Only you must remember I warned you.’ A few weeks after this, the purchase was concluded, and at the close of the season the Minister and his family went down to Canterville Chase. Mrs. Otis, who, as Miss Lucretia R. Tappan, of West 53rd Street, had been a celebrated New York belle, was now a very handsome, middle-aged woman, with fine eyes, and a superb profile. Many American ladies on leaving their native land adopt an appearance of chronic ill-health, under the impression that it is a form of European refinement, but Mrs. Otis had never fallen into this error. She had a magnificent constitution, and a really wonderful amount of animal spirits. Indeed, in many respects, she was quite English, and was an excellent example of the fact that we have really ev erything in common with America nowadays, except, of course, language. Their eldest son, christened Washington by his parents in a moment of patriotism, which he never ceased to regret, was a fair-haired, rather good-looking young man, who had qualified himself for American diplomacy by leading the German at the Newport Casino for three successive seasons, and even in London was well known as an excellent dancer. Gardenias and the peerage were his only weaknesses. Otherwise he was extremely sensible. Miss Virginia E. Otis was a little girl of fifteen, lithe and lovely as a fawn, and with a fine freedom in her large blue eyes. She was a wonderful amazon, and had once raced old Lord Bilton on her pony twice round the park, winning by a length and a half, just in front of the Achilles statue, to the huge delight of the young Duke of Cheshire, who proposed for her on the spot, and was sent back to Eton that very night by his guardians, in floods of tears. After Virginia came the twins, who were usually called ‘The Stars and Stripes,’ as they we re always getting swished. They were delightful boys, and with the exception of the worthy Minister the only true republicans of the family. As Canterville Chase is seven miles from Ascot, the nearest railway station, Mr. Otis had telegraphed for a waggonette to meet them, and they started on their drive in high spirits. It was a lovely July evening, and the air was delicate with the scent of the pinewoods. Now and then they heard a wood pigeon brooding over its own sweet voice, or saw, deep in the rustling fern, the burnished breast of the pheasant. Little squirrels peered at them from the beech-trees as they went by, and the rabbits scudded away through the brushwood and over the mossy knolls, with their white tails in the air. As they entered the avenue of Canterville Chase, however, the sky became suddenly overcast with clouds, a curious stillness seemed to hold the atmosphere, a great flight of rooks passed silently over their heads, and, before they reached the house, some big drops of rain had fallen. S tanding on the steps to receive them was an old woman, neatly dressed in black silk, with a white cap and apron. This was Mrs. Umney, the housekeeper, whom Mrs. Otis, at Lady Canterville’s earnest request, had consented to keep on in her former position. She made them each a low curtsey as they alighted, and said in a quaint, old-fashioned manner,’I bid you welcome to Canterville Chase.’ Following her, they passed through the fine Tudor hall into the library, a long, low room, panelled in black oak, at the end of which was a large stained-glass window. Here they found tea laid out for them, and, after taking off their wraps, they sat down and began to look round, while Mrs. Umney waited on them. Suddenly Mrs. Otis caught sight of a dull red stain on the floor just by the fireplace and, quite unconscious of what it really signified, said to Mrs. Umney, I am afraid something has been spilt there. ‘Yes, madam,’ replied the old housekeeper in a low voice, ‘blood has been spilt on that spot.’ ‘How horrid,’ cried Mrs. Otis; ‘I don’t at all care for bloodstains in a sitting-room. It must be removed at once.’ The old woman smiled, and answered in the same low, mysterious voice, ‘It is the blood of Lady Eleanore de Canterville, who was murdered on that very spot by her own husband, Sir Simon de Canterville, in 1575. Sir Simon survived her nine years, and disappeared suddenly under very mysterious circumstances. His body has never been discovered, but his guilty spirit still haunts the Chase. The blood-stain has been much admired by tourists and others, and cannot be removed.’ ‘That is all nonsense,’ cried Washington Otis; ‘Pinkerton’s Champion Stain Remover and Paragon Detergent will clean it up in no time,’ and before the terrified housekeeper could interfere he had fallen upon his knees, and was rapidly scouring the floor with a small stick of what looked like a black cosmetic. In a few moments no trace of the blood-stain could be seen. ‘I knew Pinkerton would do it,’ he exclaimed triumphantly, as he looked round at his admiring family; but no sooner had he said these words than a terrible flash of lightning lit up the sombre room, a fearful peal of thunder made them all start to their feet, and Mrs. Umney fainted. ‘What a monstrous climate!’ said the American Minister calmly, as he lit a long cheroot. ‘I guess the ol d country is so over-populated that they have not enough decent weather for everybody. I have always been of opinion that emigration is the only thing for England. ‘My dear Hiram,’ cried Mrs. Otis, ‘what can we do with a woman who faints?’ ‘Charge it to her like breakages,’ answered the Minister; ‘she won’t faint after that;’ and in a few moments Mrs. Umney certainly came to. There was no doubt, however, that she was extremely upset, and she sternly warned Mr. Otis to beware of some trouble coming to the house. ‘I have seen things with my own eyes, sir,’ she said,’that would make any Christian’s hair stand on end, and many and many a night I have not closed my eyes in sleep for the awful things that are done here.’ Mr. Otis, however, and his wife warmly assured the honest soul that they were not afraid of ghosts, and, after invoking the blessings of Providence on her new master and mistress, and making arrangements for an increase of salary, the old housekeeper tottered off to her own room. FROM: Wikisource. Excerpt from The Canterville Ghost, by Oscar Wilde. 1- Try and find as many words as you can from the â€Å"ghost / supernatural† semantic field: any word or phrase that has the same root or that is related to it. Organize your findings in a grid. Ghost semantic field Reality / down-to-earth semantic field 2- Write their translations, explain the differences of meaning. 3- Try and find the meaning of the following words / phrases: Foolish Punctilius Duty Unfortunate To reckon For that matter Purchase Refinement Worthy 4- Use them in a sentence. 5- What could a â€Å"fawn† be? (In the saying: â€Å"lovely as a fawn†) 6- Discuss with a partner what you know about Oscar Wilde. Write a short summary of what you both know. 7- Using the title, guess what the story might be about. Which type of story do you expect it to be? 8- Imagine a story. Be creative! 9- Prepare 6 guesses: what do you think the story is going to deal with? 10- Prepare 6 questions to which you would like to find an answer in the first chapter. 11- Write 10 words you expect to find in the extract. 12- Imagine a short summary of the story using these words. 13- Discuss it with your partner. Read the first paragraph of the story and answer the following questions: 1- What do we learn at the beginning of the story? 2- List all the information you are given about the main characters. 3- What do the following expressions refer to? â€Å"The Stars and Stripes† The Minister â€Å"She† won’t faint after that (end of the chapter). The old housekeeper 4- Can you infer the meaning and word-class (for instance adjective, noun, verb, preposition†¦) of the following words & phrases? Indeed Aristocracy Middle-aged Ill-health 5- Compare the description of the British Aristocracy (Lord Canterville) with that of the modern Americans. 6- What can you infer from these descriptions & their reactions? 7- Write 10 key-words you read. 8- Write a short summary of the story using those words and some connectors. (at least 5) 9- Check if you found the words you thought might appear in the text and tick the correct ones. 10- Try and answer your questions. 11- Prepare 6 more questions (& the answers to your questions) to ask your friends. 12- Pick out 5 verbs from the text and describe their forms (tense, active or passive voice†¦) and decide why this particular tense was chosen. Answer the following questions: 1- Who will be the main characters in your opinion? 2- What do you learn about them? (Draw a grid.) Character Actions Personality Interesting facts 3- Where does the story unfold? When? 4- What is the excerpt really about? 5- Did you enjoy it or not? Why? 6- Which type of short story is it? 7- In which ways is it different from usual ghost stories? 8- What must have been the author’s goal? 9- Do you think the story is a success? Why (not)? 10- Let’s list the key phrases & words from the text: (To be learnt for next lesson): To do a very foolish thing There was no doubt that†¦ To be haunted Duty To discuss terms Skeleton Mysterious noises To get very little sleep at night Furniture To be enterprising To warn someone Otherwise 11- Add some which you did not know. (at least 3) 1- Write a summary of the first chapter. 2- Write a story using the title â€Å"The (name of your school) ghost†. It must be a mock ghost story, a parody. The best story (the most interesting, the most creative, the funniest†¦.) will be selected by the class. 3- Make a poster about Oscar Wilde. 4- Prepare a talk on Oscar Wilde’s main novels, plays, short stories. 5- Learn the vocabulary. 6- Imagine a sequel to the story (the following chapters). 7- Imagine another title for the story. 8- Which type of stories do you enjoy most? Why? 9- Sum up your favourite story for the class. Try and find as many words as you can from the â€Å"ghost / supernatural† semantic field: any word or phrase that has the same root or that is related to it. Ghost semantic field Reality / down-to-earth semantic field Haunted Frightened into a fit Skeleton Ghost Several living members of my family Unfortunate accident Mysterious noises 1584 Makes its appearance before the death of any member of our family Curious stillness Red stain Blood has been spilt Guilty spirit To discuss terms As she was dressing for dinner Got very little sleep at night â€Å"that is all nonsense† Try and find the meaning of the following words / phrases: Foolish (= stupid) fool (noun) + -ish (ïÆ'   adjective) = adjective Punctilius (=Strictly attentive to minute details of form in action or conduct. See synonyms at meticulous/ Precise; scrupulous.) = adjective Duty (= what you are supposed to do) = noun Unfortunate ( = Characterized by undeserved bad luck; unlucky / Causing misfortune; disastrous) Un- (prefix) + fortune (noun) + -ate (ïÆ'   adjective) = adjective To reckon (=To consider as being; regard as / To think or assume.) Verb (informal) For that matter (=as far as that is concerned) = phrase (preposition + quantifier + noun) Purchase (= something you buy) = noun Refinement (= 1. The act of refining. 2. The result of refining; an improvement or elaboration. 3. The state or quality of being refined; cultivation, as in manners or taste. 4. A keen or precise phrasing; a subtle distinction.) = noun (to refine, verb + suffix –ment ïÆ'   noun) Worthy ( = 1. Having worth, merit, or value; useful or valuable. 2. Honorable; admirable: a worthy fellow. 3. Having sufficient worth; deserving: worthy to be revered; worthy of acclaim.) = worth (noun) + suffix –y (ïÆ'   adjective) = adjective. Use them in a sentence. This was a very foolish reaction! Paul has always been extremely punctilius in all matters. This is your duty. You don’t have a choice. This unfortunate accident proved that the house was not safe at all. I reckon I saw the ghost this morning. I don’t believe in ghosts myself for that matter. What a lovely purchase! One of his best qualities is the refinement of his language. He is not worthy of you! What could a â€Å"fawn† be? Like the deer and the stag, the fawn exercised great power over the early Celtic imagination. The Eacute;rainn King Lugaid Laà ­gde pursued a fawn, probably a divine personification of Ireland itself. Aige and Sadb were transformed into fawns. Donn mac Midir used yet another woman transformed into a fawn to lure Fionn mac Cumhaill and his men. But some fawns are male, like Fionn’s son Oisà ­n, whose name is still the Irish word for fawn. The fawn appears to be an antecedent of the stag in the Perceval legend. (Adapted from answer.com) Discuss with a partner what you know about Oscar Wilde. Oscar Fingal O’Flahertie Wills Wilde (16 October 1854 – 30 November 1900) was an Irish playwright, poet and author of numerous short stories and one novel. Known for his biting wit, he became one of the most successful playwrights of the late Victorian era in London, and one of the greatest celebrities of his day. Several of his plays continue to be widely performed, especially The Importance of Being Earnest. As the result of a widely covered series of trials, Wilde suffered a dramatic downfall and was imprisoned for two years hard labour after being convicted of â€Å"gross indecency† with other men. After Wilde was released from prison he set sail for Dieppe by the night ferry. He never returned to Ireland or Britain Adapted from: Wikipedia. Using the title, guess what the story might be about. Which type of story do you expect it to be? It will certainly be a ghost story, a gothic story. Prepare 6 guesses: what do you think the story is going to deal with? (Use modals!!!) It might be about †¦ This story may deal with a cranky old ghost. It could tell the story of a †¦ Prepare 6 questions to which you would like to find an answer in the first chapter. Is the ghost scary? How do the inhabitants feel about it? What is going to happen to the main characters? What did the ghost to be forced to haunt a house? What can he do to rest in peace at long last? Who represents evil, who represents good? Write 10 words you expect to find in the extract. To haunt, to be haunted, to be scared to death, to scream, to howl, to be afraid, to run away, to hide, to moan, to cry. Imagine a short summary of the story using these words. There was once a huge haunted castle in which the inhabitants kept being scared to death by a moaning ghost who kept rattling his chains & howling at night. The poor inhabitants kept crying, screaming, running away from him but there was no escaping him so they had to hide and then to move out at last. Read the first paragraph of the story and answer the following questions: What do we learn at the beginning of the story? (1st paragraph) 2 characters are introduced: Mr Hiram Otis, an American Minister who has bought Canterville Chase and Lord canterville, an English aristocrat. Lord Canterville has told Mr Otis that the place was haunted. List all the information you are given about the main characters. Mr Otis is American. Lord Canterville is English and an aristocrat. He is a man of most punctilius honour and does not hide from his buyer that the castle is haunted. What do the following expressions refer to? â€Å"The Stars and Stripes† (= the twins) The Minister (= Mr Otis) â€Å"She† won’t faint after that (end of the chapter). (= Mrs Umney) The old housekeeper (= Mrs Umney) Can you infer the meaning and word-class (for instance adjective, noun, verb, preposition†¦) of the following words & phrases? Indeed (link-word) 1. Without a doubt; certainly: very cold indeed; was indeed grateful. 2. In fact; in reality: felt sure I’d win, and indeed I did. Aristocracy (noun, aristocrat + suffix –y) 1. A hereditary ruling class; nobility. 2. a. Government by a ruling class. b. A state or country having this form of government. 3. a. Government by the citizens deemed to be best qualified to lead. b. A state having such a government. 4. A group or class considered superior to others. Middle-aged (noun + verb + -ed, ïÆ'   adjective) Of or relating to middle age: middle-aged parents; middle-aged interests. Ill-health (adjective + noun ïÆ'   noun) Poor health; sickness. Compare the description of the British Aristocracy (Lord Canterville) with that of the modern Americans. What can you infer from these descriptions & their reactions? Lord Canterville is a man of punctilius honor whereas Mr Otis mocks the English and is quite derogatory when he mentions that money can buy anything, that the Americans would have bought ghosts if there were such things. Write 10 key-words you read. Ghost, haunted, skeleton, nonsense, to faint, honest soul, frightened, modern country, old-fashioned, be scared. Write a short summary of the story using those words and some connectors. Canterville Chase is haunted by a ghost who had been scaring the British aristocracy for 300 years when it was bought by an American Minister who keeps comparing America, a modern country to Great Britain, an old-fashioned nation. Moreover, Mr. Otis is not afraid of the ghost. On the contrary, he doubts its existence. It’s nonsense according to his son, Washington. Later in the chapter his son even goes so far as removing a blood stain and that makes the old housekeeper, an honest soul, faint. She is afraid of the ghost and of skeletons. Pick out 5 verbs from the text and describe their forms (tense, active or passive voice†¦) and decide why this particular tense was chosen. â€Å"When Mr. Hiram B. Otis, the American Minister, bought Canterville Chase† = past simple, used for a finished time. â€Å"every one told him he was doing a very foolish thing† = past continuous, used for a finished time but when we insist on the activity, its duration, when we give our opinion on the sentence (when we comment upon it). â€Å"We have not cared to live in the place ourselves† = present perfect, used when there is a connection with the present time, with â€Å"now† (indeed, nobody is living now at Canterville Chase, it’s still true). â€Å"lady canterville often got very little sleep at night† = past simple, used for a finished time + narrative tense. â€Å"I fear that†¦Ã¢â‚¬  = present simple, â€Å"fear†: you fear when you say it (then the present simple is used). Answer the following questions: Who will be the main characters in your opinion? Mr. Otis & his family (Washington seems quite enterprising), the ghost. What do you learn about them? (Draw a grid.) Character Actions Personality Interesting facts Mr. Otis Talks about America in a very proud way Insulting (without meaning to), proud Does not believe in ghosts Washington Removes the blood stain practical Is trying to defeat the ghost from the start Lord Canterville Tells Mr. otis about the ghost Frank, kind Tries to warn the family Where does the story unfold? When? In Great Britain, at the end of the 19th century (1584 + 300 = 1884). What is the excerpt really about? It’s about American & British values. Money vs tradition. Which type of short story is it? It is the parody of a ghost story. In which ways is it different from usual ghost stories? There’s a gothic castle but the new owners are not scared to death. They even doubt the ghost’s existence! What must have been the author’s goal? Criticism. Write a summary of the first chapter. ïÆ'   Mr. Otis, an American Minister, buys a property in England called Canterville Chase, against the advice of his friends and the owner himself, Lord Canterville, who assures him that it is haunted. Lord Canterville’s family has chosen not to live there because of the ghost. His grandaunt never recovered from her fright caused by two skeleton hands grabbing her shoulders. Mr. Otis says that he does not believe there is such a thing as a ghost, and says he will take the house and the ghost if it does indeed come with it. Lord Canterville replies that the ghost’s existence has been well known since 1584, and always appears before the death of a member of his family. A few weeks later, when the purchase is complete, the family moves into Canterville Chase. Mr. Otis is accompanied by his wife, who is a good-looking woman of good health, and their four children. The eldest is a son named Washington, a handsome, sensible young man who is also good at dancing. Virginia is the only daughter, and is fifteen years old. She is â€Å"lithe and lovely† and an accomplished rider. She even beat the young Duke of Cheshire in a race, and he was so impressed by her he proposed to her. The youngest children are the twins, otherwise known as the â€Å"stars and stripes† because they are always being switched for their mischievousness. The Otises have a lovely drive to their new property, seeing squirrels, rabbits and birds along the way. However, as they approach Canterville Chase, the sky becomes dark, and everything is very still. The housekeeper, Mrs. Umney, greets them and tells them about the bloodstain on the library floor when asked by Mrs. Otis. She tells them that the stain mysteriously cannot be removed, and is the blood of Lady Eleanore de Canterville who was murdered there by here husband, Sir Simon, in 1575. Sir Simon lived for another nine years, but then mysteriously disappeared. His body was never found, but his ghost haunts the house. Washington says her story is nonsense, and proceeds to remove the stain with stain remover. There is a clap of thunder and Mrs. Umney faints. When she awakes, Mrs. Umney warns the Otis’ to be wary because she has seen the truth of the ghost’s existence, and has spent many sleepless nights in the house. All of the Otises, however, state that they are not afraid of ghosts. (From Bookrags.com).

How Does Williams want us to feel about Blanche in the opening scene?

At the start of the scene, the Blanche is introduced dressed conspicuously in white, â€Å"as if she were arriving at a summer tea or cocktail party†. Williams is trying to portray a sense of youth, innocence and purity in her clothing, but she is obviously out of place; however she is also described as a â€Å"moth†-an unpleasant creature of the dark, so there is obviously more to her than meets the eye. She has an air of great self-importance and she is posh, and therefore slightly out of place. She is used to grander settings than Elysian Fields: â€Å"Her expression is one of shocked disbelief†. She is also unimpressed at the state of her sister's house. She is also very rude and dismissive towards people of lower status, like her overly-helpful neighbour Eunice. After at first failing to get rid of her with boring, one-word answers, she frankly tells her to go away: â€Å"What I meant was I'd like to be left alone†, offending Eunice. She feels superior to Eunice, and is not used to having to answer questions from people she deems to be below her. Once alone, Blanche begins to explore her sister's house. Her eye is caught by a bottle of whiskey in a half-opened closet, and we find out that she is no novice when it comes to drinking. Whereas before she was sitting â€Å"in a chair very stiffly with her shoulders slightly hunched†, now she â€Å"springs up and crosses to it (the whiskey)†. She ‘tosses down' half a tumbler, before hiding the evidence, thus revealing her secretive nature. This theme of her secret drinking habit continues throughout the first scene, as she lies about drinking and even has the temerity to claim that ‘one's her limit'. She is also patronising and rude towards Stella. She joyously embraces her sister, talking far too much while trying to maintain her disguise: â€Å"turn that light off!†¦I won't be looked at in this merciless glare!† She doesn't want her sister to see that she is drunk or see through the facade of youthfulness. She then orders her about patronisingly while condemning her home: â€Å"What are you doing in a place like this?† After at first putting up with her sister's degrading comments about her house, Stella describes her as â€Å"intense†, which describes her perfectly. Blanche is also very quick to accuse her sister, in a bid to deflect attention away from her own short-comings: â€Å"You thought I'd been fired?† She leaves a lot of things unsaid, such as her reason for leaving her job. She also feels the need for approval from her sister, especially appearance-wise. She orders Stella to â€Å"stand up†, before patronisingly referring to her as a â€Å"little partridge† and informing her that she's â€Å"put on some weight†. Her sister puts up with it thought, obligingly telling her: â€Å"It's just incredible, Blanche, how well you're looking†. Blanch is very quick to judge, right from the very start; she is unimpressed by the local area, the neighbours, her sister's home and even her husband's nationality; she ignorantly refers to Polish people as â€Å"something like the Irish, aren't they†¦only not so – highbrow?† She is keen to impose herself upon the local community, again showing her insatiable need to be liked by others. Eventually she moves on to why she came to be here, apart from â€Å"taking a leave of absence† from the school. She gives some lame excuses, like â€Å"I want to be near you† but betrays her cover with the stage direction â€Å"Her voice drops and her look is frightened†. However she is able to recover herself enough to launch into a hyperbolic defence of herself after losing the family home, even blaming Stella for leaving: â€Å"You're a fine one to sit there accusing me of it!† She also exaggerates greatly, claiming â€Å"I fought for it, bled for it, almost died for it†.

Hospitality Industry. Marriott International, Inc Assignment

Hospitality Industry. Marriott International, Inc - Assignment Example Liverpool is a city on the growth path. It has seen fastest growth amongst all the key cities in Great Britain between 2002 and 2003, far in excess of regional and national rates. In cultural diversity it is home to many ethnic communities, varying from Irish, Welsh, Scots, English and different religions and countries Jewish, Muslim, Hindu; Chinese, Greek, Italian, Spanish. Even people from the Caribbean, Somalia, Yemen, the Balkans and Middle East have made Liverpool their home. (http://www.liverpool.gov.uk). This diverse conglomerate of communities creates unique opportunities for attracting a wide diaspora to converge in the city during the year 2008. Liverpool has a vibrant culture, it is the original home of pop and music is supplemented by humor, writing and performing arts. It is a port city with principal traffic to the United States. Liverpool is a major regional shopping hub. (http://www.liverpool.gov.uk). A number of international retail giants as Zara and Armani have large outlets. These will be further expanded to cater for the massive influx in 2008 from European and global tourists. Thus it has a unique advantage of being a business and culture hub of Britain. This trend is being encapsulated in the concept of Capital of Culture. The central focus is on, The World in One City. The supporting themes are Create, Participate and Regenerate to be progressed by the vision of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. All this is within the overall culture strategy of the Liverpool City Council. (http://www.liverpool08.com). ... (http://www.liverpool08.com). The underlying themes of recreating history, reflecting the present and projecting the future can also be encapsulated in Marriot's philosophy of exploiting the past to sustain profits for the present and beyond. Liverpool Culture Company has been set up with a Chief Executive and a Board to manage promotion and oversee implementation of the Liverpool Capital of Culture. This will provide government and agency support for the project. The assured support of all agencies will enable its successful implementation. (http://www.liverpool08.com). Liverpool's bid for the project had been endorsed by the entire North Western Region, to include North West Development Agency, North West Arts Board, North West Sports Board, Sport England North West, the North West Tourist Board and the North West Cultural Consortium. (http://www.liverpool08.com). Marriott's culture of associate support and customer excellence will enable it to place itself in the forefront of Liverpool's successful management of the primary event, Capital of Culture in 2008. Since there is total commitment of city authorities including the Liverpool Culture Company and regional organizations, this offers synergy in implementation, which can also be exploited by Marriot affiliating with local authorities to sustain growth. Marriot has properties in Liverpool and Manchester. These can be networked to generate additional revenue during the Year 2008, as availability of hotel accommodation in Liverpool per se is likely to be at a premium. Proposed Strategic Response Marriot is essentially seen as a company focused in the United States with a network of properties in other countries. Europe receives maximum tourists every year.

Language and Identity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Language and Identity - Essay Example Though all three writers express initial disgust for having to give up part of their heritage, Rodriguez makes it clear throughout his essay that there should be no shame in embracing one’s native tongue, nor should it be thought of as a sin to accept another. Richard Rodriguez’s â€Å"Aria: Memoir of a Bilingual Childhood† follows the writer’s journey from his discovery of the English language when he was a young boy, to being encouraged to learn it while attending Catholic school, and then to completely appreciating its uniqueness from his native Spanish. When he first heard English, Rodriguez remembers being intrigued by the sounds of the words, noting how different and less impersonal the seemed compared to Spanish. These profound differences prompted Rodriguez to regard English as a public and sociable language and Spanish as more intimate and familial based. As a result, Rodriguez felt that his inability to speak English separated him from those who could, and until he was forced to learn English, he was at ease with this distinction. Learning English had been tedious for Rodriguez, who claimed that the Spanish kept his family together and that a new language, one from the outside world, might cause a rift to form between them. As such, Rodriguez was reluctant to accept English as his choice language. He went through school in silence, not keen to open his mouth and speak the words of outsiders. He watched on in interest as his parents used minimal, disjointed English in the public, but pure Spanish within the home. The presence of the familiar Spanish kept Rodriguez from learning English until nuns from his school encouraged his parents to speak English at all times around their children. His parents obliged, and it was not long before Rodriguez fully grasped the English language and began speaking aloud in class. Rodriguez’s perspective of his native Spanish varied throughout his life, and the changes before and after he learned English were the most prominent. Spanish was a language that Rodriguez valued, especially since, according to him, the language kept his family close. He believed that Spanish was not only a secret code that English-speakers could not understand but felt that it was a cornerstone to him belonging to his family, a feeling that was reinforced primarily because his family spoke and shared with one another in Spanish. Everyone outside of the home spoke English, which meant that everyone understood each other; Rodriguez and his family, though, were in their own special circle of Spanish-speakers. Spanish was part of his heritage and a vital component to Rodriguez’s very being. When Rodriguez learned English, he did not necessarily lose his appreciation of Spanish and all that it offered his family but learned to accept the advantages that came with also knowing English. Harder than Rodriguez actually learning to speak English, though, was him speaking a language that di d not involve his parents. As previously mentioned, Spanish was a huge part of Rodriguez’s identity among his family members. When his parents began speaking English for the sake of their children, Rodriguez noticed that the intimacy between his family members had evaporated. They were still a close and loving family, but English caused them to have fewer words to say. When Rodriguez fully accepted English as his primary language, his parents were approving of the change, but other family members were not as open to him embracing a culture other than their own. Aunts and uncles, and even Spanish-speaking strangers on the street and in grocery stores would tease Rodriguez for abandoning his heritage (Rodriguez 321).     Ã‚  

Research advantages and disadvantages to bring World Cup to US Paper

Advantages and disadvantages to bring World Cup to US - Research Paper Example and equipment, which could be practiced on any more or less flat open space of the required size, made its way through the world entirely on its merits. But not in the United States† (Markovits & Hellerman, 2001, p.7). Sports culture is what people breathe, read, discuss, analyze, compare, and historicize and the less popularity of soccer in the US may be a reason of cultural hegemonic sports culture in the US which may lead to the domination of other sports like baseball, basketball, tennis and so on over the soccer extravaganza (Markovits & Hellerman, 2001, p.9). However the craze for soccer is gaining speed in America and a transition has taken place from soccer pioneers to  soccer-literate and are gradually directing towards the creation of the road to soccer-passionate by the soccer fans (Saporito, 2010). The Men’s Soccer World Cup held in 1994 saw almost near-capacity crowds at stadiums around the United States and attracted large domestic television audiences. Coupled with this success, the Major League Soccer (MLS) was founded in 1996 with money flowing from large owners and influential investors accelerating the games’ recognition with high media coverage. Women’s football became the most popular game in the United States nowadays followed by the phenomenal World Cup shootout victory over China by the United States Women’s national team in 1999 paving the way for the Women’s United Soccer Association’s (WUSA) founding in 2001 with huge inflow of investments (Richard & Nagel, 2007). The US bidding committee has also started bidding for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup for bringing this mega event in their country. This paper will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of bringing the World Cup to the United States with the subsequent impacts on the social, economic, and environmental dimension of the country. Emphasis is given on the research of secondary literary resources. Justifications of the statements are provided with examples and

The artist M.C. Escher Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The artist M.C. Escher - Research Paper Example In some of his works, he created polytypes that cannot be constructed in real world and can be explained using mathematics knowledge. His study on mathematics began with George Polya’s academic paper about plane symmetry groups. What he studied inspired him to study the concept of 17 wallpapers (Math Explorer Club, 2009). By using this mathematical concept, he manage to create a periodic tilings made up of 43 colored drawings of different types of symmetry. This was the point where he started developing mathematical approach to expressions of symmetry shapes in his drawings. He was being viewed as a research mathematician during that time when he documented his findings in a book wrote about asymmetry polygons. He researched about color based division and he came up with a system of classifying combinations of shape, color and symmetrical properties (Math Explorer Club, 2009). He also developed several interlocking figures that appear to be mathematically incorrect. With the use of black and white color, he manages to develop different dimensions to make the impossible mathematics look possible. He normally combines 2 and 3 dimensional images to a single print. In his works entitled ‘reptiles’ he drew pictures where reptiles come out of tessellation, move around, and go back into 2 dimensional forms. To create certain linear perspectives, he picked a point on the drawings such that all the lines in the work will converge together at one point. In this way, he used mathematics to develop a certain perception from the audience, without using any special mathematic tool. Escher circle limit III contains tessellations that he drew with a free hand and they are mathematically correct (Abrams, 1995). In 1956, he analyzed the concept of representing infinity on 2 dimensional planes. His wood carvings circle limit I-IV shows the infinity concept. In 1959, he explained further about infinity using his construction (Abrams, 1995). The