One of the Most Innovative Poducts of the Recent Decades Essay

One of the Most Innovative Poducts of the Recent Decades - Essay Example Another strategic resource responsible for 3M’s innovativeness is its strong human resources (Warc News, 2011). The organization is structured in a way that each worker has the dual responsibility of adhering to his/her particular business unit and region as well as being a part of the global 3M network. This global nature of the company’s existence and operations is yet another factor responsible for its success. Hence, employees are encouraged to take on additional roles, move from one region to another and even rotate from one business unit to another (Warc News, 2011). Thus, 3M is flexible in terms of its human resource development and assignment of task roles which further reinforces its culture of thinking out of the box. The company further ensures that change is the only constant element. Hence, trial and error, risk taking and failure are a norm at 3M. This is reinforced by a high degree of employee empowerment such that there is a high tolerance for ambiguity and risk amongst all members. This is combined by the process of reverse thinking that allows workers to schedule their work in a flexible manner, thereby enhancing their motivation to work. However, as much as ad-hoc ideas and brainstorming is encouraged, the company is highly customer-oriented and conducts rigorous, continuous market research in an attempt to continually provide something better and valuable to the customers (Bryson & Rusten, 2008). Hence, at all times the company monitors the pulse of the customer. 2) One of the most innovative products of the recent decades has been the Apple i-phone. The company was able to rack up profits worth millions of dollars despite the global recession. The fundamental reason for it success was its superior design and aesthetic appeal. The phone combined the aspects of beauty and function in a way no other phone has. Hence, the product is labeled as iconic or a pioneer in its type of design and user interface. A significant factor has a lso been Apple’s sheer marketing gimmicks and campaign which was able to capture a large share of mind in its customers. Perhaps, the fact that the product was in the same line as other products in the Apple Family also favored i-phone tremendously (Denning et al., 2010). So customers who own a MAC ( by Apple) and are in search of a mobile phone would find i-phone compelling simply because of the fact that they can synchronize data easily amongst the two. This would allow them to easily transfer, retrieve and store data interchangeably since the two devices share similar technology by the same manufacturer (Apple). Another major reason behind the astounding success of i-phone is the affordability. This simply means that, faced with a choice between a laptop and a mobile phone, consumers with limited money will prefer buying the latter (Curwen & Whalley, 2011). The choice is made easier with the inclusion of software and various applications on i-phone that allow its users to obtain similar interface as that of a laptop. Perhaps, one of the distinguishing features of i-phone was its state of the art integration of internet services that were technically unmatched with its competitors. Furthermore, the time when i-phone was launched is a critical factor behind its success. i-phone was released at a time when social networking had begun operations and people all over the world were enthusiastic about using the new web platform for which i-phone provided an excellent connection (Denning et

The Factors That Influence Travel Decision Making Tourism Essay

The Factors That Influence Travel Decision Making Tourism Essay This chapter consists of three parts. First is introduction, next is literature reviews that review the critical points of previous researches including substantive finding as well as theoretical and methodological contributions to this similar topic. Lastly, a conclusion to this chapter. Research in the area of travel motives is important in understanding and predicting the factors that influence travel decision-making (Cha, S., McCleary, K.W. and Uysal, M., 1995). Motivation is theoretically viewed as a state of need, a condition that serves as a driving force to display different kinds of behavior toward certain types of activities, developing preferences, arriving at some expected satisfactory outcome. (Backman, K.F. Backman, S.J., Uysal, M. and Sunshine, K.M.,1995) In particular, an understanding of motivation assist marketers efforts to achieve and satisfy individuals diverse desires and needs, key elements that influence the process of travelers decision-making (Crompton,J.L. and McKay S.L.,1997). Studies of motivation thus provide to predict travelers personal needs, expectations, achievements, or benefits sought (Formica,S. and Uysal, M.,1998). A brief review of travel motivation research (Table 1) published in three major tourism journals Annals of Tourism Research, Tourism Management, and Journal of Travel Research revealed that existing studies have covered a wide range of the spectrum, there are included the sociology of travel motivation as a stimulator of actual behavior (Dann 1977; Mansfeld 1992); travel motivation of different niche markets (Clift and Forrest 1999; Dunn Ross and Iso-Ahola 1991; Hsu, Cai, and Wong 2007; Maoz 2007; Qu and Ping 1999; Rittichainuwat 2008); the development or empirical test of travel motivation measurements (Crompton 1979; Dann 1981; Fodness 1994; Ryan and Glendon 1998); differences in motivation among tourists with varied nationality and cultural backgrounds (Kim and Prideaux 2005; Maoz 2007), number of visits (Lau and McKercher 2004), destinations and origins (Kozak 2002), sociodemographic characteristic (Jang and Wu 2006; Fleischer and Pizam 2002), or environmental attitude (Luo and Deng 2008). Authors Study Dann 1977 A sociological study of travel motivation, with a focus on the push dimension of motivation. Crompton 1979 The motivation for pleasure vacation. Seven motivation factors were identified through interviews. Dann 1981 Based on a literature review on travel motivation, seven approaches of motivation study were identified. The utilization of different terminologies was also discussed Dunn Ross and Iso-Ahola 1991 Motivation of sightseeing tourists in relation to their satisfaction Mansfeld 1992 The role of motivation in travel behavior and its complex nature Paul 1992 Travel motivation of Canadian ecotourists Parrinello 1993 Relationship between anticipation and motivation in postindustrial societies in the context of Western Europe Fodness 1994 A measurement scale was developed for leisure travel with 20 items. Lieux, weaver; and McCleary 1994 Benefit segmentation of senior tourists from the United States Gnoth 1997 Development of theoretical model on motivation and expectation formation Formica and Uysal 1998 Benefit segmentation of visitors to a cultural-historical event in Italy Ryan and Glendon 1998 The Leisure Motivation Scale was applied to tourism with British holidaymakers. An abbreviated version of holiday motivation scale with 14 items was developed. Waller and Lea 1998 Relationship between authenticity seeking and enjoyment. The knowledge dimension of motivation was found to mediate this relationship. Clift and Forrest 1999 The motivation of gay men in relation to the type of destinations they preferred in the context of the United Kingdom Qu and Ping 1999 Motivation of cruise selection in the context of Hong Kong Goossens 2000 The role of emotional component of travel motivation in stimulating actual travel behavior Fleischer and Pizam 2002 Relationship between motivation and Israeli senior travelers income and health Kozak 2002 Differences of motivation among tourists visiting different destinations and tourist from different countries visiting same destination with respondents from the United Kingdom and Germany Sirakaya, Uysal, and Yoshioka 2003 Benefits segmentation of Japanese tourists to Turkey Lau and McKercher Differences of travel motivation between first-time and repeat visitors to Hong Kong Kim and Prideaux 2005 A cross-cultural analysis on travel motivation to South Korea among five national tourist groups Pearce and Lee 2005 Further development of the Travel Career Ladder by introducing Travel Career Pattern (TCP). The relationship between previous experience and motivation was explored by TCP. Yoon and Uysal 2005 Causal relationship between push-pull motivations, satisfaction, and destination loyalty. Pull factors were found to negatively influence satisfaction. Jang and Wu 2006 Influences of sociodemographic factors, economic status, health status, and positive and negative effects on travel motivation among Taiwanese seniors Chang, wall, and Chu 2006 Benefits segmentation using the novelty seeking scale in the context of Taiwanese tourists to aboriginal attractions Nicolau and Mas 2006 Influences of travel distance and price on destination selection, with travel motivation as a moderator in the context of Spain Poria, Reichel, and Biran 2006 Relationship between perception of heritage as it is related to the tourists own heritage and motivation explored before the trip Snerpenger et al. 2006 Tourists and recreationist were comparing using Iso-Aholas motivation theory. The relationship between motivation and previous vacations was investigated. Swanson and Horridge 2006 Causal relationship between souvenir shopping and four motivational factors in the context of Southwestern United States Beh and Bruyere 2007 Benefits segmentation in the context of Kenya Hsu, Cai, and Wong 2007 A theoretical model of senior travel motivation in the context of China Maoz 2007 Travel motivation of Israeli backpackers, investigated in relation to national and cultural characteristics Luo and Deng 2008 Relationship between environmental attitude and nature-based tourism motivation Rittichainuwat 2008 Travel motivation to a tourism destination, using the disaster-hit beach resort in Phuket as an example. Comparison was made between domestic and inbound tourists, and between tourists of different ages and genders. Park and Yoon 2009 Benefit segmentation of rural tourism in the context of South Korea Table1. Brief Summary of Studies on Travel Motivation (Adopted from Cathy H.C. Hsu, Liping A. Cai and Mimi Li, 2009) Many researchers from different fields such as from sociology, anthropology, and psychology have investigated travel motivation since many years ago (Cohen, 1972; Dann, 1977; Crompton, 1979; Gnoth, 1997). Maslows hierarchical theory of motivation was one of the most applied in tourism literature (1970) and it was model as a pyramid whose base consists of the physiological needs, followed by higher levels of psychological needs and the need for self-actualization. Numerous tourism scholars have attempted to modify the model empirically, with the notable success by Pearce (1982), who projected a tourism motivation model that mirrors the model of Maslow, but free of prepotency assumption. Fulfilling Prestige Push Seeking Relaxation Factors Sightseeing Variety Gaining Knowledge Events and Activities Pull Adventure Factors History and Culture Easy Access and Affordable A review of past researches on tourist motivation indicates that the analysis of motivations based on the two dimensions of push and pull factors have been generally accepted (Yuan McDonald, 1990; Uysal Hagan, 1993). The concept behind push and pull dimension is that people travel because they are pushed by their own inner forces and pulled by the outer forces of destination attributes. Most of the push factors that are origin-related are intangible or intrinsic desires of the individual travelers. Pull factors, vice versa, are those that emerge because of the attractiveness of that particular destination, as the travelers perceive it. They include tangible resources and travelers perception and expectation such as benefit expectation, novelty and marketed image of the destination. A research model is then developing based on this theory at below diagram (adapted from Baloglu Uysal, 1996). Travel Motivation Crompton (1979) first sought to draw seven socio-psychological, or push motives such as escape, self-exploratory, relaxation, prestige, regression, kinship-enhancement, and social interaction) and two cultural, or pull motives that are novelty and education. The conceptual framework that he developed would giving impact the selection of a destination, and this approach implies that the destination can have some degree of influence on vacation behavior in meeting an aroused need. As Cromptons initial empirical effort, many studies have attempted to recognize push and pull motivational factors in different settings such as nationalities, destinations and events (Jang and Wu, 2006). Example incorporated Yuan and McDonalds (1990) study on motivations for overseas travel from four countries: Japan, France, West Germany and UK. While Uysal and Jurowski (1993) studied, the nature and extent of the reciprocal relationship between push and pull factors of motivations for pleasure travel with using data from the Canadian Tourism Attribute and Motivation Survey. Another study in Australia examined the nature and usefulness of the relationship between these two factors of motivation by utilizing canonical correlation analysis (Oh, H., M., Uysal, P. Weaver, 1995). Baloglu and Uysal (1996) claimed that the concept of product bundles is used to refer to the perceived significance of the interaction between push and pull items of motivation. This implies that certain reasons for travel may correspond to certain benefits that are to be valued and obtained at the destination spot. Based on the intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, as discussed above, the individual tourist builds their perceptions, and the perceptions can be differ from the true attributes of the product depending on how the individual receives and process information (Gartner, 1993; Dann, 1996; Baloglu and Brinberg, 1997). A general conclusion can be drawn that the personal motives or called push motives and the view of the characteristics of the tourism destination (pull motives) determine perceptions. These motives interact in dynamic and evolving context (Correia, 2000), and the tourist motivation is seen as a multidimensional concept that indicates tourist decision (McCabe, 200 0). As tourism paradigm is related to human beings and human nature, it is always a complex proposition to study why people travel and what they want to enjoy (Yoon and Uysal, 2005). In most studies, it is generally accepted that push and pull motivations have been primarily utilized in studies of tourist behavior. The discoveries and issues undoubtedly play a use role in attempting to understand a wide different of needs and wants that can drive and influence tourist behavior. Nevertheless, Yoon and Uysal (2005) said that the results and effects of the motivation studies of tourist behavior need more than an understanding of their needs and wants. In tourism destination management, it was generally agree that maximizing travel satisfaction is crucial for a successful business. The evaluation of the physical products of destination as well as the psychological interpretation of a destination product are important for human actions (Swan and Comb, 1976; Uysal and Noe, 2003), which could be further represented as a travel satisfaction and destination faithfulness. Both concepts can be examined within the context of a tourism system representing two major components of the market place, namely, demand (tourist) and supply (tourism attractions) which demand refers to motives (push factors) that sustain tourists desire while supple relates to destinations characteristics (pull factors) (Jurowski et al., 1996). Push and pull factors have generally been characterized to two separate decisions made at two separate period in time one focusing on whether to go, the other on where to go. For instance, Dann (1981) noted that once the trip has been decided upon, where to go, what to see or what to do (relating to the specific destinations) can be tackled and this make a conclude that, analytically, both logically and temporally, push factors precede pull factor. Although these two factors has been viewed as relating to two distinct decisions, several researchers have distinguished that they should not be viewed as operating entirely independent of each others. For example, it has suggested that people travel because they are pushed by their own intrinsic forces and simultaneously pulled by the extrinsic forces such as the destination and its attributes (Cha, McCleary, and Uysal 1995; Uysal and Jurowskil, 1994). However, Crompton (1979) argued, push factors may be useful not only in explaining the initial arousal, energizing, or push; to take a vacation, but may also have directive potential to direct the tourist toward a particular destination (p.412). Several empirical examinations of push and pull factors had been reported in the travel and tourism literature. Of the prior research that examined the students and/or spring break travel market (Butts, F.B., J. Salazar, K. Sapio, and D. Thomas, 1996; Field, 1999; Hobson and Josiam, 1992,1996; Hsu and Sung, 1996,1997; Sirakaya and McLellan, 1997), there have been no investigations of push forces and only a handful of attempts to study the pull factors influencing students destination choice decision. In another study, conducted by Hobson and Josiam (1992), students were asked to list their primary reason for choosing a spring break destination and most responses referred to the influence of friends and/or family living near or going to the destination, other reasons referred to destination-related attributes such as the destination having s spring break party reputation, warm weather, affordable pricing, quiet environment, good skiing, or good beaches.

Tennessee Williams Use of Dramatic Devices To Create Contrast And Conf

Tennessee Williams' Use of Dramatic Devices To Create Contrast And Conflict In "A Streetcar Named Desire" Tennessee Williams uses a number of dramatic devices to highlight the conflicting worlds of the old and new American South. These can be divided into four categories: staging, character and language, and props and costumes. I will be using these categories for reference in this essay. 'A Streetcar Named Desire' is an example of the genre 'realism'. Realism is fiction that is overtly gritty and realistic, showing real people in real situations, and also comments on the state of the world at that time. The play is set shortly after the American Civil War, which was fought over the right to keep slaves; the South wanted to keep slaves on their plantations, working for free, but the North wanted them to work in their factories, for a wage. The North (confederate) won the Civil War and immediately set about industrializing the South. The play is set in New Orleans, one of these newly industrialised areas. In this essay I will examine how Tennessee Williams used these devices to create conflict between the main characters, to provide a social commentary on a changing America, and how these changes affect the main characters of the play. Tennessee Williams stages 'A Streetcar Named Desire' extremely effectively, with much of the play set in the small, confined room of the apartment: Stella: "With only two rooms..." (p.9) This instantly creates and intensifies tension because all the characters are forced to be close together; there is no privacy. When Blanche first enters the play, she is instantly incongruous and out of place: 'she looks like she is dressed for a tea party' (p.3) This contras... ...character; she too is obsessed with the idea of death, and aging. Tennessee Williams even said once: "I am Blanche," which shows he has based her character heavily on himself; they both view men as uncultured brutes, both have an obsession with death. Blanche has this obsession because she had to witness her family, and her old way of life, dying slowly. Now it seems to her like that time in her life was all just a dream of illusion. This is illustrated in the translation of 'Belle Reve', which means literally 'Beautiful Dream'. Blanche losing Belle Reve represents her losing an illusion of life and being brought back down to earth. In conclusion, through careful use of staging, props, costume and language, Tennessee Williams creates a powerful portrait of conflict between the old and new South, between death and desire, and between Blanche and Stanley.

Reaction Paper: Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction Essay

Abstract In his book Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction written by Dr. Mark Laaser he gives us a glimpse into the life of those addicted to sex. Mark Laaser set out to increase understanding of sexual addiction as a disease. He leads us to discover how sexual addiction takes over the life of the sexually addicted person and causes devastation from a Christian world view. In his book Dr. Laaser examines what he calls the building blocks behaviors that begin the cycle that leads to sexual addiction, and the family dynamics that contribute to sexual addiction. The sexual addiction in the church is addressed along with how the church can recover. Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction written by Dr. Mark Laaser (2004) analyses sexual addiction from a Christian world view. Dr. Laaser (2004) is a recovering sex addict with personal experience of the pain and shame of sexual addiction. Sexual addiction is described as a sickness involving any type of uncontrollable sexual activity (Laaser, 2004). Unlike other diseases, Christian sex addicts have the added complication of not seeking help because they feel they will be hated, shunned, laughed at, or punished if anyone knew their sin (Laaser, 2004): however, as Laaser (2004, p. 224) stated in his book â€Å"while sexual sin is devastating, there is hope for healing†. Synopsis In his book Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction Dr. Mark Laaser (2004) identifies sexual addiction, the cycle that causes it, and hope for those who are sexually addicted. His theory of sexual addiction is that it is a disease and immoral. As with all sin, it escalates into a downward spiral that if left untreated can cause death to the sinner. Laaser (2004) believes although sexual addiction is a sin it is also a disease. This leaves little  doubt for Dr. Laaser, that â€Å"we are engaged in warfare when we attempt to heal sexual addiction (Laaser, 2004, p. 25).† He believes the onset of sexual addiction consist of building block behaviors, these are sexual activities that cause the cycle of other sexual behaviors. Laaser (2004, p. 29) explains â€Å"these building block behaviors are fantasy, pornography, and masturbation.† These behaviors cause a cycle where the addict can never find satisfaction. In this cycle of sexual addiction, the addict tries to be in control but cannot gain control without healing. As with most sins once caught in the cycle of sexual addiction it is impossible to get out without help. I believe that the church is responsible for helping to heal people who are sick. Just as a person with diabetes or any other chronic disease the sexually addicted person needs a healer. Family Dynamics Dr. Laaser (2004, p. 76) discusses the roots to sexual addiction, which he says â€Å"begins in families that possess unhealthy dynamics and characteristics.† One way families’ express unhealthy dynamics are through boundaries. Boundaries can be too loose or too rigid. Some families may have both loose and rigid boundaries, which causes confusion in children. Rules are another force at work contributing to unhealthy families. Dr. Laaser (2004) states some families have rules of conduct that prevent tension from getting out of control. These rules are probably never spoken or written down but the whole family knows them. Some of these rules are not talking about feelings, problems or embarrassing situations, this could be hiding one’s feelings or denying problems (Laaser, 2004). The third category that contributes to unhealthy family dynamics are the roles people play in the family unit. These roles can be unhealthy when a person is forced into playing a role he was not created to play (Laaser, 2004). The final category is addictions, addictions can be substance or behavioral things that have become repetitive in an unmanageable way and lead to destructive consequences. As a child I grew up in a family that had both loose and rigid boundaries concerning sex. I was told sex was something you do not do, besides that it was something you do not speak of. I grew up not knowing what healthy boundaries were. This helps me to understand how a person could become sexually addicted. I know I could empathize with a  person who is sexually addicted. As a Christian I have learned what healthy boundaries are and what my role is as a person in Christ. I believe that sexual addiction is immoral, but it is also a disease. I also believe that an addict cannot get out of the cycle of sexual addiction without help. Therefore as the church we are to be the hands of Christ reaching out to help those who need healing from sexual addiction. Treatment of Sexual Addiction When seeing new patients Dr. Laaser (2004) asks three spiritual questions. The first question is â€Å"do you want to get well (pg.122)?† He relates this question to the story of the man at the pool of Bethesda, where Jesus asked the man â€Å"do you want to get well†. The correlation is that to get well the person must want to get well. They must give up their past pain and suffering to God, and find alternative ways to find love and nurturing they need. This requires a lifetime of discovery, but it all starts with willingness (Laaser, 2004). The last two questions are â€Å"what are you thirsty for (Laaser, 2004, p. 123)† and â€Å"are you willing to die to yourself (Laaser, 2004, p. 124).† The addict must be ready to be healed, be thirsty for God, and be willing to die to themselves in order to begin the healing process. Dr. Laaser’s treatment also involves ten components of accountability. Accountability is necessary in order for the addict to maintain sexual purity (Laaser, 2004). He relates the accountability to the story of Nehemiah rebuilding the city that has been destroyed. As in Nehemiah the addict must have someone to be accountable to. When the addict has agreed to treatment Dr. Laaser recommends there be a professional in place to care for them. According to Laaser (2004) there are a growing number of Christian Counselors trained to give a formal diagnosis. The addict should be taken to this professional immediately to begin treatment. Dr. Laaser then gives five components of treatment of sexual addiction. These include stopping sexual behavior, stopping rituals, stopping fantasy, healing despair and healing shame. Elements of all five of these are  required for an effective treatment plan (Laaser, 2004). I believe that learning never ends especially in regards to human behavior. I believe I have the empathy and positive regard for a person that has a sexual addiction to treat them. After working with addicts for a year I learned that this disease is habitual and that it is a cycle that is not easily broken. It takes patience and perseverance to work with an addict. Most of all I believe it take compassion for that person. Knowing that recovery is a lifelong process and takes a life time of work. Sexual Addiction and the Church A leadership Journal survey revealed that 23 percent of 300 pastors had done something sexually inappropriate with someone other than their spouse (Laaser, 2004,p.194). There are a variety of things that contribute to pastors’ sexual vulnerability. However it is still the responsibility of the pastor to get help and not act on these vulnerabilities. In order for the church to heal Laaser (2004) believes we must bring healing to two groups: primary victims and secondary victims. Primary victims are those who have been sexually abused by leaders. Secondary victims are those in the congregation who were betrayed because of faith in the pastor. In caring for primary victims Dr. Laaser recommends that the church provide advocates who can guide these victims in the process of healing. The church should provide fellowship to the victims, and counseling. Care for secondary victims involves breaking the silence, the grieving process, reconciling the victims to the church, and prevention. Prevention involves developing healthy boundaries in the congregation in order to prevent wounds. Dr. Laaser has several opinions in which I agree. One of the most important parts of healing the church as a whole is to develop healthy boundaries in the church. This would prevent people from being wounded and wounding others. The church as a whole must heal the pastors and the congregation. Offering pastors help so that they do not become burdened by their job, and making them be accountable to someone. I also agree that we must speak out and not hide any indiscretion in the church and when there is an incidence it should be brought out in the open. This would stop perpetrators from continuing to harm others. Conclusion The addict is never completely cured from sexual addiction. It takes a lifetime of work and perseverance to break the patterns that cause a person to be sexually addicted. To recover from the trap of addiction a person has to come to the end of themselves and admit they need help. The shame and fear from their habits make it hard for the addict to trust enough to seek help. Dr. Laaser stated accepting their powerlessness over their disease leaves them with a great humility and need for God, which is a deep aspect of their spiritual healing (p. 223). Reference Laaser, M.R. (2004). Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

Peace in Eastern Religions Essay

All Eastern religions have their own ideas about engendering peace within individuals and society. Jainism and Buddhism insist on the protection of all life. Confucianism permits war whenever reality would not allow for absolute peace within society. Daoism, on the contrary, rejects war by almost equating tranquility with the true nature of humanity. It is reasonable, therefore, to pose the following questions: Do all people love peace? If so, why do we have to discuss the subverting of hatred? As a matter of fact, all people cannot find peace until and unless they have come to believe in certain peace-inducing thoughts, such as ahimsa of the Buddhists. All religions propose peace with their particular sets of beliefs. Followers of the religions are required to know the thoughts of their peace-loving leaders, however, before they can find absolute peace within themselves. There is no religion without knowledge, which is why a Jain must know the basic beliefs of his or her community before peace could be practiced in the form of complete nonviolence. I believe that the â€Å"inner peace† proposed by Buddhism is the most important definition of peace. This is the kind of peace that is available to all, regardless of our levels of education. Even before an individual has realized the peace-inducing thoughts of the Buddha, or another religious leader, â€Å"inner peace† is essentially available. Moreover, nonviolence is best practiced with â€Å"inner peace. † If this kind of peace is not available to an individual, he or she may find it difficult also to understand the nonviolent practices of the religion. After all, an agitated and wrathful mind would not be able to practice nonviolence in the best possible way. Despite the fact that Buddhism is an offshoot of Hinduism, Smith-Christopher (1998), the editor of Subverting Hatred: The Challenge of Nonviolence in Religious Traditions, has positioned the chapter on Buddhism before the chapter on Hinduism. This allows the reader to understand the origins of Buddhism after reflecting on the religion. Most importantly, however, the placement of the chapter on Buddhism before the chapter on its origins allows the reader to be introduced to the concept of â€Å"inner peace† earlier on. This is an indispensable form of peace without which no concept of nonviolence is possible to be understood. Seeing that the subject of the book is the practice of peace, it would have been appropriate also to place the chapter on Buddhism as the first chapter in the book – simply for an understanding of â€Å"inner peace. †

Artificial Intelligence Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers

Artificial Intelligence Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers Artificial Intelligence Upon examining issues of mind and thought, the questions of artificial intelligence and its capabilities become important considerations for answering the ultimate question of what thought truly is. Computerized calculation is one of the few events that is somewhat analogous to human cognitive thought, so the extension of this current technology to more advanced future applications makes it a very interesting testing area for questions into consciousness. If one concludes that the advancement from cash registers to present day computers is a step closer to human thought, then we must concede that progressing technology will bring us closer and perhaps to the very point of true cognitive skills. The dilemma left to us philosophers and scientists is to determine when a machine has reached the point of thought, or at least to create a rough guideline. A.M. Turing proposed a test to solve this problem. Named, appropriately enough, the Turing test, it contains a controversial method of te sting called the imitation game. The idea is to put one man and one woman in two rooms and have them questioned by an interrogator in a third room. The man would try to answer questions in a way which would suggest he is a woman. The woman attempts to answer in a way to reveal the truth of the matter. If the man fools the interrogator, it is said that he can think like a woman, or, at the very least, mimic a woman's responses. This game can also be played with a computer in the male slot, trying to convince the interrogator that it is human. It would follow reason that if a computer could pass this test, it could think like a human, or at least mimic one. Perhaps the abilities showcased in the test alone would not be sufficient, but Daniel C. Dennett claims that "[t]he assumption Turing was prepared to make was that nothing could possibly pass the Turing test by winning the Imitation Game without being able to perform indefinitely many other clearly intelligent actions" (Dennett 93) . One often cited criticism of this notion is the idea of mimicry. Imagine a program that stored an almost infinite amount of information regarding sentences and grammar and was able to spit out contextualy appropriate sentences to a wide variety of inquiries. The computer has no knowledge of what the information means; it is acting much as a parrot does. Luckily for Turing, there is no shortage of responses for this claim. First of all, as Douglas Hofstadter points outs, "[t]he number of sentences you'd need to store to be able to respond in a normal way to all possible sentences in a conversation is astronomical, really unimaginable" (Hofstadter 92). The computer would also have to contain a complex microprocessor to keep up with conversation in a timely and manageable fashion. It would have to be so advanced indeed that such a microprocessor might be considered a small scale brain, sorting through symbols and their meanings to form contextually valid responses. Accordingly, if su ch a machine existed, it would pass the Turing test and validate the method of testing at the same time. If a machine was capable of mastering the context-sensitive language we use, it may very well have a claim to true thought. At the very least, the computer would surpass mimicry and be labeled a simulation. Human thought is so complicated and demanding that any device that attempts to duplicate it with any success would have to be a highly sensitive simulation. Any machine that passes the Turing test must have a rudimentary "knowledge" of the information it is using and therefore is more than parrot . Assuming this is true, we must then ask hard questions about the value of simulation. The critical claim is that any simulation is just a simulation and not a real example of what it is simulating. Hofstadter finds this fallacious, as do I. First, any simulation can reasonable defined in this context as the recreation of a natural event by an agent other than nature. This view bring s up the idea of levels in simulation. A good example is Dennett's simulated hurricane in Brainstorms. From the programmer's vantage point, the

selfhelp groups essays

selfhelp groups essays Self-help groups consist of individuals who share the same problem or concern. Members provide emotional support to one another, learn ways to cope, discover strategies for improving their condition, and help others while helping themselves (Wituk, Shepherd, Slavich, Warren, There are several goals to self-help groups. When polled, sixty-one percent of self-help groups said that their most important goal was providing emotional and social support to members. Thirty-two percent said that providing information and education to members was the most important goal. A few other goals were advocacy, special events, and fundraising. Some of the supports to members in self-help groups are telephone support, peer counseling, and buddy systems. With such overwhelming statistics, its a shame that most social workers dont know of any self-help groups other than Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. There are hundreds of groups that social workers should be familiar with so that they could refer clients to them. (Wituk et al., 2000). The setting of self-help groups is usually pretty relaxed. Groups are affiliated with either a national group or a local group. Social workers are not always involved with self-help groups. The ones that are involved are not always the leaders, but merely someone that helps the conversation along (Wituk et al, 2000). Social Workers need to learn what self-help groups there are in their area, so they can refer their clients to them. Social workers can get a copy of the National Self-Help Sourcebook to learn about groups in the United States. They should thoroughly check out these groups to make sure that they are still functioning before they refer clients to them. Social workers should keep a record of all the self-help groups that they can find in their area. This list should also be kept up to date. Clients should be referred to several prog...

What You Need to Know About Becoming a Paramedic

What You Need to Know About Becoming a Paramedic As a general rule, a paramedic is not someone you want to see- if they show up, that means something has likely gone very wrong. But as emergency first responders, they’re definitely the people you want on call for when things do go wrong. Paramedics are often the first on the scene of an accident, illness, or crisis. They perform immediate life-saving measures, if necessary, and stabilize patients en route to a hospital or doctor’s office for further diagnosis and treatment. The Day-to-DayLicensed paramedics, who are among the most skilled emergency responders, do not work in a 9-to-5 setting. Rather, they work in shifts around the clock, and are often on call at all hours, including weekends and holidays. The â€Å"office† may be a dispatch center or on the road in an ambulance, traveling to and from emergency calls. Paramedics provide emergency medical care and rescue services based on incoming calls or requests and can be employed by private ambulance compani es, fire departments, hospitals, or other rescue agencies.Also, know that paramedics are not interchangeable with Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). They go above and beyond first aid and basic patient transport, having the extra training and licensing that allows them to perform advanced medical intervention if necessary- intubating patients so they can breathe, inserting IV lines, and administering medications.Becoming a paramedic is definitely not for the faint of heart. Even though the stereotypical â€Å"blood and guts† aspect is only a small part of what paramedics do (which also includes helping chronically ill patients in addition to accident victims or those with sudden or acute sickness), paramedics are often called to dangerous and active rescue scenes. Stress and on-the-job injuries can result from the hectic life of a paramedic, so potential candidates should be aware of the risks.For more on the daily life of a paramedic, read about it in this Lifehacker inte rview with Paramedic Andy Orin or watch this video interview with Paramedic Kelly Grayson.The RequirementsParamedics need to complete a postsecondary degree program, pass an exam, and apply for a license. The paramedic course of study usually takes 1,200 to 1,800 hours to complete. And although every state requires paramedics to be licensed, each state may have different requirements, so be sure to check out your own state’s regulations.The SkillsParamedics receive training in a number of areas, including:CPR and first aidPatient airway treatment and managementPharmacology (medications)Traumatic injury managementInserting IV linesBasic patient medical careManaging acute conditions (such as diabetic shock, strokes, or heart attacks)General clinical trainingThe PayPer the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), paramedics earn a median salary of $31,700.The OutlookThere’s no shortage of emergencies, unfortunately, so the demand for these highly skilled, essential first re sponders will continue to grow. The BLS expects that the demand will expand at least 24% by 2024, significantly faster than most other jobs and industries.The life of a paramedic is one of both hectic activity (when things are busy) and anticipation (down time when no calls are coming in). It’s an extremely demanding, stressful, and challenging field, to be sure- but if you have a fondness for adrenaline and the ability to stay icy cool under the hottest pressure, then it just might be the right Allied Health career for you to consider.Interested? APPLY HERE

Summarise and Analysis the article option ethnicities Essay

Summarise and Analysis the article option ethnicities - Essay Example Nevertheless, the tendency of the white remaining as â€Å"hyphenated Americans† is very strong and it is present in a number of political as well as social institutions. She describes â€Å"Symbolic ethnicity† of the white ethnic group from later generations as an American phenomenon that is quintessential (Waters 141). Waters further argues that people have retained ethnicity in their lives just because it permits them to bring together the contradicting values of individuality, community and choice in America. In addition to Waters exploring the symbolic ethnicity of the white middle-class from later generations, she addresses what they cost the society. She compares white middle-class with non-white Americans, who do not have many options. These identities are individualistic. However, there is a huge difference between racial identities that are self-imposed or socially enforced and the individualistic symbolic ones (Waters 143). Waters concludes the article by giving the readers invaluable information about the contemporary American life. Young people in colleges and campuses live together, regardless of their background and still respec t and appreciate each other. This is something that most people cannot do. The present discrimination based on race must stop (Waters 144). The assignment is about summarizing the article â€Å"Optional Ethnicities† by Mary Waters. The purpose of the article is to bring out ethnicity as what it really is and how it plays a very big role when it comes to categorizing and treating people, especially focusing on the privileges of a white person. The article does not target a specific audience as Waters wrote the book so that every American who cares to read it gets enlightened about ethnicity. Ethnicity not being a biological phenomenon, but a social one, is the thesis of this

Describe an imaginary place that young children would enjoy.Write the Essay

Describe an imaginary place that young children would enjoy.Write the description so readers can visualize as they read - Essay Example The maids bring them whatever they wish for. They take the children to swings and play games with them. The garden is followed by a huge row of palaces made of pearls and gold. They are made for kind and gentle people to live in who are all dressed in crimson. As children pass by them, they welcome them and offer them to come into their palaces. The palaces have jewels scattered all over and the children jump and play with joy. The sky is full of colors, and there are rainbows of striking colors which no one has seen in this world. The children can touch the rainbows and climb over it waiving at each other with amusement. Lovely parrots and pigeons fly over them singing songs in their sweet voices. The children then jump over the soft clouds which offer them cozy beds made up of water vapors, on which the children lie down to take the sweetest sleep they can ever get.

How was the La Pachuca symbolized during the Zoot Suit Riots Research Paper

How was the La Pachuca symbolized during the Zoot Suit Riots - Research Paper Example The La Pachuca symbolized the concept of complete equality between men and women, as well as a race, while using style and statements to show a sense of identity to the time frame. Defining La Pachuca The concept of La Pachuca rose at the same time as the Zoot Suits of the Chicano movement. The main ideal was based on creating a sense of identity in which all individuals from Mexico, Spain and the Latin decent had a combined identity. The Zoot Suits were the masculine interpretation of creating a modern and new style which set apart this sense of identity. The main concept was to remain as outsiders from the rest of society because of the ethnicity and decent. However, this was combined with the modernist approach of the Zoot Suits, which mimicked the time frame and other concepts of culture. Typically, those who wore these suits were attributed with gang violence and the ethnic race. The La Pachuca mimicked this ideal with the same association of belonging to the Chicana movement wh ile intertwining contemporary style with ethnicity from the feminine style of the time (Ramos, 562). The main approach which the women used in the Zoot Suit movement was based on creating a male like mimic and counterpart to the men of the movement. The women wore baggy pants with a high waste, followed by a t-shirt or blouse. The hair was pulled back with a â€Å"puff† on the top or a short cut of the hair (see Appendix A). This particular style was followed with the more feminine approach. This included a pencil skirt which went to the knees and also which had a high waste. This was accessorized with fishnet stockings, platform heels or sandals. The women would wear this with suspenders and a v-neck sweater or blouse over the top. If the hair was placed down, then it would be curled but would keep the same high top as the other styles used for the time. The women were also known for wearing darker lipstick and were often dressed with the same tattoos as men. The ideology wh ich was created, while moving into a slightly feminist approach, always mimicked the male Zoot Suiters and the style which was taken to distinguish them as Latin American and a part of the rebellion and movement of the time (Ramirez, 1). La Pachuca as a Symbol of Equality The first way in which the representation of the La Pachuca became a symbol was through the definition of equality which was exhibited. The subculture of the Zoot Suits was based on creating a sense of equality in American society for Chicanos that had immigrated to America and were interested in working with the same opportunity as other ethnicities in the country. The inability to have the same equality led many to gang activities and to outbreaks to try to point out the need to have this equality. The Zoot Suit Riots were a symbol of this desire and gathered attention in the national community to begin changing the consciousness of those in society toward culture in general. The Pachuca dressed similar to the me n and was known to have the same identity while taking place in the riots of the time. The representation of this showed that both the men and women of the Chicano / a ethnicity were looking for the same equality in society and deserved to be shown equal merit in terms of national identity (Ramirez, 9). The similarity of the zoot suit and the dress of the La Pachuca were furthered with the overall symbolism that

Essay Interview Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Interview - Essay Example Although my country also provides good educational opportunities, yet they cannot be compared to Canadian standard of education. I believe in high-end quality in education. I believe in seeking that kind of education and degree that is recognized worldwide. My own homeland also has many reputable universities that are recognized around the globe, but my dream was to seek education in Canada since I was a little child. I can find highly flexible learning opportunities in Canada. There is a wide variety of courses available there. Although I may sound like demeaning the education of my own homeland, but the truth is that I am a very patriotic person; yet, I cannot compromise on sensitive issues like education. I had to choose what was best for me, and therefore, I chose Canada. Among many other choices which I was considering about immigration for the purpose of education, I found Canada to be a country which provides protection to its citizens much more than any other country. We can call it a safe country. I feel comfortable in any part of the country without the threat of terrorism or violence. People are guaranteed protection even in bigger cities like Ottawa and Toronto. I do not feel as if I am being neglected because I am not in my own homeland. There is Canadian social help system which does not make me feel unaccompanied when I am facing difficulties settling down. There are a lot of government sponsored programs and courses that I can seek help from in my hard times. For example, if I lose my job, I shall be supported through a government funded program to back up my finances until I find a new job. Another important point that I considered was that Canada is one of the developed countries whose economical infrastructure is very strong. I can be sure to find a suitable paying job in this country. Most of the jobs are well

The hood and its influence on youth culture Essay

The hood and its influence on youth culture - Essay Example Hollywood movies often reflect the life in South Central Los Angeles and paint a picture in the minds of viewers about such stereotype but the media perhaps makes the bigger impact in such perception because of the reliability of the information given and the actuality of things that are reported. The media often show the poor neighborhood which is prone to violent events due to the obvious inequalities and the abuse of workers resulting to fights. Looking at the history of south Central L.A., proposition 13 can be blamed for what is happening at the ghetto. The proposition â€Å"cut funding for California libraries, universities, children’s programs, parks, playgrounds, and perhaps most importantly, its public schools† (Corwin, 174). This resulted to even worse quality of living conditions among the poor because the funds for maintenance and improvement of facilities were not enough. In relation to this, the low funding of schools have been affected by the building of prisons. It could be said that the priorities of the government have not been well-balanced. It is ironic that more money was spent on prisons when the more important institutions that could have helped the people stay away from the jails should have been given top priority. Instead, the exact opposite happened. Corwin says that, â€Å"From 1984-1995, California built nineteen new prisons but the state has not built a new university campus in almost thirty years† (175). Considering this situation, had there been great efforts to construct schools or improve those which already existed, more children could have been molded in a better environment. In effect, there would be no need to construct more jails if there was a better plan for the people that encourage them and show that there is a hope for a better tomorrow for the poor. Moreover, there is the â€Å"three strikes† law which demands more prisons to be built. The law is said to force more prisoners to stay in jai l for a minimum of twenty five years to life even for petty offenses. The long period of punishment for offenders increases the number of prisoners at a faster rate and thus requires the government to build more prisons. Other factors that affected the situation in the ghetto were the Watts riots which caused most white residents to flee the area. Then there was the fair housing legislation which allowed middle-class Blacks to move to better environments leaving the unemployed, single mothers, elderly and the welfare cases behind. Such groups of hopeless and helpless people were joined by Latinos who fled their country due to worse political situations. The competition for a low paying job among Blacks and Mexicans is high and is making their lives more difficult. With the struggles that they are going through, the people often result to violence to express their cry for their rights however such actions make the situation even worse. Following out Corwin’s logic, the conditi on of schools should first and foremost be made a top priority for the government because this can be an instrument in the making of better citizens. The improvement of such institutions should be well-funded so that quality service will be given to the people. Teachers should be paid well so that they will stay in the ghetto even after years of experience. Volunteer and substitute teachers may be accepted but they should not be the ones largely making up the faculty of the schools. The people, whether Whites, Blacks or Latinos, should be given equal

How does the concept of Citizenship contribute to our understanding of Essay

How does the concept of Citizenship contribute to our understanding of the experience of minority ethnic groups - Essay Example Legal British citizenship for the minorities has been changing concept recently with more regularities and demands. The citizenship requirement is not spread in an uniform way amongst the minorities; instead, the blacks seem to be having an upper hand here. "The rates of British Citizenship found across different groups contain a high degree of variance, with black Africans exhibiting the highest level of non-British citizenship in 1977," (Evans, 1999, p.105). Blacks who have migrated into Britain since the days of slavery and increased their numbers in recent decades, have become better naturalised citizens than other minorities. Complete naturalisation and acceptance of British way of life, while retaining some of their own traditional values, depends on many criteria. The main factor that should be considered here is the period of migration and the length of stay here. "These factors are the period of migration, the economic conditions of migration, the citizenship regime of the host state, and the ways in which the political cultures imported by immigrants from their original countries have combined with native political cultures," (Pennin... This means, an individual's mindset about Britain and its citizenship mainly depends upon the treatment he received from the British people after migrating here, the stereotyped models the individual has maintained in his mind and also the prejudiced or unprejudiced attitude he had developed over the years, either aided by the local population, or totally unaided. Victorians thought that the minorities were uncivilised people from far off colonies, and unfortunately they showed it in their attitude. This does not mean that there were no kind people in Victorian days. If the minorities had come into contact with well-balanced thinkers, there are instances of positive outlook where the person became happy under a helpful employer or a friend. The mass migration was from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and West Indies. The settlements were localised and some clusters emerged in London, Liverpool, Cardiff, in the early 1800s and in those days, they were all referred to as black communities. They lived a poor life, as any other immigrants of any country and tried hard to eke out a living. "A pattern of black minority ethnic settlement characterised by residential concentration, segregation and deprivation is now well-established in Britain.the day-to-day experience of most people living in Britain at that time was a white one," (Pacione, 2002, p.216). Eventually their living conditions, with their own hard work and government help, improved and along with it, improved the attitude of the British, who came to recognise the good qualities of their minorities. In any country, it is quite natural, to have wrong opinion, dislike, suspicion about the new people who look

The hood and its influence on youth culture Essay

The hood and its influence on youth culture - Essay Example Hollywood movies often reflect the life in South Central Los Angeles and paint a picture in the minds of viewers about such stereotype but the media perhaps makes the bigger impact in such perception because of the reliability of the information given and the actuality of things that are reported. The media often show the poor neighborhood which is prone to violent events due to the obvious inequalities and the abuse of workers resulting to fights. Looking at the history of south Central L.A., proposition 13 can be blamed for what is happening at the ghetto. The proposition â€Å"cut funding for California libraries, universities, children’s programs, parks, playgrounds, and perhaps most importantly, its public schools† (Corwin, 174). This resulted to even worse quality of living conditions among the poor because the funds for maintenance and improvement of facilities were not enough. In relation to this, the low funding of schools have been affected by the building of prisons. It could be said that the priorities of the government have not been well-balanced. It is ironic that more money was spent on prisons when the more important institutions that could have helped the people stay away from the jails should have been given top priority. Instead, the exact opposite happened. Corwin says that, â€Å"From 1984-1995, California built nineteen new prisons but the state has not built a new university campus in almost thirty years† (175). Considering this situation, had there been great efforts to construct schools or improve those which already existed, more children could have been molded in a better environment. In effect, there would be no need to construct more jails if there was a better plan for the people that encourage them and show that there is a hope for a better tomorrow for the poor. Moreover, there is the â€Å"three strikes† law which demands more prisons to be built. The law is said to force more prisoners to stay in jai l for a minimum of twenty five years to life even for petty offenses. The long period of punishment for offenders increases the number of prisoners at a faster rate and thus requires the government to build more prisons. Other factors that affected the situation in the ghetto were the Watts riots which caused most white residents to flee the area. Then there was the fair housing legislation which allowed middle-class Blacks to move to better environments leaving the unemployed, single mothers, elderly and the welfare cases behind. Such groups of hopeless and helpless people were joined by Latinos who fled their country due to worse political situations. The competition for a low paying job among Blacks and Mexicans is high and is making their lives more difficult. With the struggles that they are going through, the people often result to violence to express their cry for their rights however such actions make the situation even worse. Following out Corwin’s logic, the conditi on of schools should first and foremost be made a top priority for the government because this can be an instrument in the making of better citizens. The improvement of such institutions should be well-funded so that quality service will be given to the people. Teachers should be paid well so that they will stay in the ghetto even after years of experience. Volunteer and substitute teachers may be accepted but they should not be the ones largely making up the faculty of the schools. The people, whether Whites, Blacks or Latinos, should be given equal

Turbochargers to be used in commercial two wheelers Essay - 1

Turbochargers to be used in commercial two wheelers - Essay Example The first turbocharger was invented in the early 20th century by the ‘Swiss engineer Alfred Buchi’ who introduced a prototype in order to increase the power of a diesel engine. At the initial stage, turbocharger was meant to be used on airplanes which could use thinner air and fly at higher altitudes and to be used to deliver ample power for stable flight. In the engineering world turbochargers was in much attention as World War I brought the increased need for the aviation technology. The concept of turbocharging in those days was very little accepted. But, in the last few years, turbocharging has been a vital product in almost every diesel engine, with an exception being very small diesel engines. Turbochargers use in the petrol engines have also shown good boost for the power output. The first turbochargers were applicable limited to large engines such as marine engine. In the automobile industry turbocharging was firstly implemented into truck engines. In 1938, ‘Swiss Machine Works Saurer’ built turbocharged engine for trucks. In 1962, the Chevrolet Corvair Monza was the first turbo powered engine car which was introduced in United States. Poor efficiency and reliability made them to disappear from the market. In 1973, after the oil crisis step in, turbocharging was again found be acceptable in the diesel engine applications resulting an increase in the turbocharged truck engines. As a result today every engine of the truck is turbocharged. After few years, turbochargers were introduced in the motor sports mainly into Formula 1 racing. The word ‘turbo’ started to become quite popular. In those days, almost every manufacturer of automobiles implemented turbocharging in at least one of their top model with a turbocharged petrol engines. Although this engines were very powerful it still did not made an impression to take a further step because of the more fuel consumption and more importantly the delayed response named as ‘turbo lag’ was

Why China has grown faster then India

Why China has grown faster then India Introduction: Comparative studies between China and India are becoming more popular now in the international level. China and India are among the largest economies in the world today. While the Chinese economy has surpass India by a wide margin over the past 15 years. I am comparing the growth experiences of China and India at a broad level, explaining why China has grown faster than India by focusing on the comparison of GDP, Exchange rates policies, Monetary and Fiscal policies, and Unemployment in India and China. In this study will analyze why per capita national income is so much higher in China than in India? And why Chinas GDP is growing so much faster? And why unemployment remains high in both the countries and how the Governments addressing the Unemployment factors? Why GDP per capita national income is so much higher in China than in India? In 1978, after years of state controlled productive assets, the Chinese government invests on a major economic reform program. In an effort to awaken economic giant, it encouraged the formation of rural enterprises, private businesses, liberalized foreign trade and investment. China also relaxed state control over some prices, invested in industrial production and stressed on education of its workforce. The growth in the country is accumulated capital assets, such as new factories, manufacturing machinery and communications systems. Economic development has suggested a significant role for capital investment in economic growth, and a sizable portion of Chinas recent growth is in fact attributable to capital investment that has made the country more productive. In other words, new machinery, better technology and more investment in infrastructure have helped to increase its output. Being hospitable to foreign investment, Chinas open-door policy has added power to the economic transformation. Cumulative foreign direct investment, negligible before 1978, reached nearly US$100 billion in 1994. Annual inflows increased from less than 1% of total fixed investment in 1979 to 18% in 1994. The foreign money helped China built factories, creates more jobs, linked China to international markets and led to important transfers of technology. These trends are especially apparent in the more than one dozen open coastal areas where foreign investors enjoy tax advantages. In addition, economic liberalization has boosted exports which rise 19% a year during 1981-1994. Strong export growth, in turn, appears to have fueled productivity growth in domestic industries. (Zuliu Hu, Mohin S.Khan, 1997) GDP Per Capita (Current US$) 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 China 1,731 2,072 2,660 3,422 3,744 India 765 855 1,096 1,065 1,134 (Adapted from The World Bank Group, 2010) Why Chinas GDP is growing so much faster? GDP: Comparative Analysis between China and India As per IMF (International Monetary Fund) report, China was the fourth largest economy of the world by nominal GDP in 2006, where as India was 12th. China registered GDP growth rate of 14.2% in the first half of 2007, where as India has registered a 9.6% GDP growth in June 2007. Chinese economy is worth $4900 billion, whereas the India economy is worth of $1300 billion. GDP Growth (Annual %) 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 China 11.3 12.7 14.2 9.6 9.1 India 9.3 10.1 9.6 5.1 7.7 (Adapted from The World Bank Group, 2010) GDP (Current US$) 2006 2007 2008 2009 China 2,716,870,000,000 3,505,530,000,000 4,532,790,000,000 4,984,730,000,000 India 949,192,000,000 1,232,820,000,000 1,214,210,000,000 1,310,170,000,000 (Adapted from The World Bank Group, 2010) Chinas economy seems to be a better bet, for unlike China; India is yet to prove that it can sustain high growth rates over a period of time. The general feeling is that despite having a boom in technology, services and IT sector, the Indian economy still eventually depends on good monsoons, meaning that agriculture continues to dominate the Indian economy more than it should. (Arvinder Singh, May/June 2005) Foreign Direct Investment, Net Inflows (BoP, Current US$) The FDI flow depends on the market size, market growth rates, political stability, corruption, exchange rates, labor productivity, economic freedom, infrastructure, openness, human capital and taxes. China got $79 billion in 2005 in FDI and India did not even get $ 7 billion in FDI. In 2009 there is slight change in Chinas FDI of about $78 billion dollars but India made a good progress of raising $34 billion in FDI compared to year 2005. The study tried to explore this phenomenon and to understand the drivers for attracting foreign investment in emerging economies. India despite being the largest democracy in the world has lagged behind due to its focus on services and specialized skill based relatively small manufacturing model in contrast to China. India growth model has been based on IT, ITES and skilled manufacturing which are dependent on the availability of human skill and capital in an emerging market. (Swapna S Sinha, Apr-Sep 2008) FDI, Net inflows (BoP, Current US$) 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 China 79,126,731,413 78,094,665,751 138,413,000,000 147,791,000,000 78,192,727,413 India 7,606,425,242 20,335,947,448 25,127,155,852 41,168,605,242 34,577,000,000 (Adapted from The World Bank Group, 2010) China is regularly getting 10 to 12 times more foreign investment than India. In India the number have come up, they will probably come up more. I believe China has a more competitive manufacturing sector than India and that is derived primarily from Chinas greater degree of openness than India. That does not mean that India does not have many world class manufacturing companies, it certainly does, but on an average the competitive environment in China is much stronger because its tariff being much lower. (Wanda Tseng, 2006) Trade in Goods (Imports, Exports and Trade Balance) in China India: Trade with China Month Exports Imports Balance January 2010 6,888.8 25,185.1 -18,296.3 February 2010 6,855.1 23,363.8 -16,508.8 March 2010 7,403.6 24,300.2 -16,896.6 April 2010 6,591.2 25,905.7 -19,314.5 May 2010 6,752.7 29,036.8 -22,284.1 June 2010 6,715.0 32,866.5 -26,151.5 July 2010 7,344.7 33,260.0 -25,915.3 August 2010 7,253.5 35,288.5 -28,035.0 Total 55,804.6 229,206.7 -173,402.1 Note: All figures are in millions of US dollars on a nominal basis, not seasonally adjusted unless otherwise specified. (Adapted from U.S. Census Bureau, 2010) Trade with India Month Exports Imports Balance January 2010 1,295.5 2,079.4 -783.9 February 2010 1,235.2 1,958.1 -722.9 March 2010 1,454.8 2,472.4 -1,017.6 April 2010 1,671.2 2,650.0 -978.8 May 2010 1,852.9 2,672.6 -819.7 June 2010 1,690.6 2,532.6 -841.9 July 2010 1,800.2 2,591.4 -791.2 August 2010 1,716.8 2,773.5 -1056.7 Total 12,717.1 19,729.9 -7012.7 Note: All figures are in millions of US dollars on a nominal basis, not seasonally adjusted unless otherwise specified. (Adapted from U.S. Census Bureau, 2010) ? Exchange Rate Policies in two countries: China policy The debate over the exchange rate between the Renminbi (RMB) and the Dollar is usually framed in terms of global imbalances, excessive US consumption beyond its savings on the one hand, and excessive Chinese production and savings beyond its own spending on the other. This quickly leads to a conclusion that the United States should export and save more and China should import and spend more. Leaders in the United States would like the RMB to appreciate significantly and quickly to encourage an expansion of US exports and employment. The argument for a sustained appreciation of the RMB is rooted not only in short term concerns about Chinas large current account surplus, but also in long term trends of Chinas economic fundamentals, including high growth rate, rapid urbanization and industrialization, low national debt and low fiscal deficits. These trends are the result of three decades of reform in China that have opened the country to trade with the rest of the world and led to strong productivity gains. Based on the experience of other fast growing industrializing economies, these forces will increase Chinese wages, the value of the RMB and Chinas price level over time. (Steven Dunaway, 2010) (Geng Xiao, 2010) Indian Policy With the appreciation of the rupee/dollar exchange rate in early May and the expectation of interest rate hike, there was some appreciation of the rupee and that could hurt exports. In particular, it would hurt the low value added exports from small and medium enterprises. The recent recovery in exports happens to be the biggest factor for a sharp rise in industrial output growth; this imminent rate hike was opposed. There were calls for the Reserve Bank of India to intervene in the forex market to contain the strength of the rupee largely to support the export sector recovery. There were even suggestions to continue the export incentives that were part of the overall stimulus packages of 2009. These suggestions are based on the assumption that in India, a weak rupee would encourage exports and thus, help the overall growth recovery. Many economists have argued for intervention in the forex market, and some Asian economies, notable China maintain artificially undervalued exchange rates to maintain international competitiveness. (N R Bhanumurthy, 2010) Monetary and Fiscal Policies in two countries: Indian Monetary Policy The Reserve bank continues its tightening cycle as inflation pressures are building, by raising reserve requirements and its main interest rates since the beginning of the year. Indian Fiscal Policy The budget for the 2010-11 fiscal year projects improvements for the deficit after the fiscal stimulus of last year and the large one off expenditures of the year before. As a share of GDP, the deficit is expected to reach 7.8% of GDP from 9.6% last year and 11.8% in 2008-09. The improvement will come from a combination of weaker expenditure growth from reduced subsidies and greater revenues from the acceleration of economic growth. The reversal of indirect tax cuts that were part of the fiscal stimulus package, the expansion of the tax base and the revival of the privatization program, as well as the one time sale of G3 licenses, which generated over US$ 15 billion. Solvency indicators will improve again, but are expected to remain above comfortable levels, with public debt to GDP reaching 68% by 2014-15. (Export Development Canada, 2010) Unemployment in China India and Remedial Measures by the Government: Causes of Unemployment in China This country has largest population in the world. The work force available is too large. Every year new generation is added to the already available work force. It is very difficult for any government to find jobs for millions of young people entering in the job market. In 2004 the estimation was that 15 million young people will enter the job market and only about 8 million jobs were expected to be created in that year. The other major reason behind the unemployment is the type of jobs offered. There is lack of jobs for the graduates and literate young people. I feel that the ever increasing population and lack of the English speaking workforce are the two major causes of unemployment in China. Causes of Unemployment in India There are individual factors like age, slow pace of development, high growth rate of population, slow industrialization, slow growth rate of agriculture etc. Every year Indian population increases manifold. More than this every year about 5 million people become eligible for securing jobs. Self employment field is subject to ups and downs of trade cycle and globalization. Technological advancement contributes to economic development, but unplanned and uncontrolled growth of technology is causing havoc on job opportunities. The Chinese government is addressing the unemployment issues by promoting growth of tertiary industries, by increasing financial support and implementing favorable policy for non state sector especially small medium companies in private sector. It is also readjusting the employment concept and is preparing laborers with practical job training and education. Conclusion: The main reason why Chinas GDP is higher than Indias is that the growth of China has resulted from the rapid rise in the manufacturing of high-tech goods in the country under the large scale high tech manufacturing firms like Lenovo, Baidu.com and Huawei Technologies. The infrastructural development in China has also been quite high than that of India, which has added to growth of the Chinese GDP. China spends 11% of GDP on infrastructure and India spends 6% of GDP on infrastructure. (Geethanjali Nataraj, 2010)

The United States Industrial Boom Essay examples -- American History,

After the Civil War had ended the United States had many challenges to face. There are a variety of factors that aided the country through the tough years that followed the war. The rapid growth of the United States helped to accommodate a large flow of immigration, and build an extremely powerful industrial infrastructure, as well as temper the hostility still present throughout the country. Trains, and eventually automobiles, opened the West to the rest of the country. People now had an escape from there lives in the East, and eagerly began to populate the farthest corners of the country. America was on its way to making an enormous impact on the world’s industrial market. Raw materials, new techniques in the workplace, a massive increase in the labor force, and numerous technological inventions all played integral parts in the United State’s economic and industrial boom. Large quantities of coal, iron ore, silver, and gold were discovered in various regions in the West. Lead, quartz, zinc, copper, and other precious metals were also found as new areas were uncovered. Around the mines and quarries gathered the workers of the sites along with their families. These people created towns known as â€Å"boomtowns†, which required transportation in the form of trains for their supplies. The same process happened with numerous other raw materials found in the country as well (Brinkley, 449). The agriculture, cattle, and sheep markets made many people large profits and, as with the stones and metals, relied on the railroad to bring the goods to the consumers. With the aid of the railroads there was an abundance of agricultural goods in the United States, â€Å"American commercial farmers, constantly opening new lands, produced much mor... ...in the United State’s economic growth. America used its massive reserves of raw materials to produce its way into the world industrial market. Railroads brought American settlers and adventurers across the United States to discover more raw materials as well as spread out the country's population from the crowded East. New technologies and innovations allowed for the manipulating of resources until they produced as much profit as possible. The concentration of power and monopolies required, and received, massive numbers of cheap labor. It was that very wealth the monopolies created that attracted millions of immigrants to this country to find work. A cycle of factors where every one played a part, some more crucial than others, yet equally dependent upon one another. This cycle fueled America’s industrial boom, and propelled it into the world’s industrial market.

Hypertension Essay -- Health, Cardiovascular Diseases, Stroke

Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases including stroke and may also have a role in the development of vascular cognitive impairment and vascular dementia [1, 2]. Angiotensin I-converting enzyme (EC 3.4.15.1; ACE) plays an important role in the rennin-angiotensin system and it is a carboxyl-terminal dipeptidyl exopeptidase that catalyzes the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II [3-6]. ACE converts an inactive form of decapeptide, angiotensin I, to a potent vasoconstrictor, octapeptide, angiotensin II, in addition; since the ACE is a multifunctional enzyme it also catalyzes the degradation of bradykinin, which is known as a vasodilator [4, 7]. Therefore, inhibition of ACE activity leads to decrease in the concentration of angiotensin II and increases the level of bradykinin; consequently reduce blood pressure [8]. The discovery of captopril as a potent inhibitor of ACE led to the recent development of many series of novel structures with similar biological activity [9]. To date a wide variety of ACE inhibitors from various land and marine food sources have been reported such as milk [10], cheese [11], egg white [12], canola [13], peanut [14], rapeseed [15], antler [16], fish muscle [17], seaweeds [18] and tuna [2]. Many academic, scientific, and regulatory organizations are considering ways to establish the scientific basis to support and further validate claims for functional components or the foods containing them. Consumer interest in the relationship between diet and health has increased the demand for information about functional foods. More recently, the food industry, the agricultural community, and now consumers have shown a growing interest in the field of... ...dependent on the conversion of yellow tetrazolium bromide to its purple formazan derivative by mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase in viable cells [34]. In conclusion, E. cava is a very interesting resource, due to the presence of unique phlorotannin derivatives with special bioactivities including ACE inhibitory activity. Ethanol enhances the extraction of phlorotannins specially dieckol from the brown seaweed E. cava. By contrast, in this study phloroglucinol derivative dieckol exhibited the strongest activity against ACE. With the results of this study we can suggest that the brown seaweed E. cava could be used in development of promising and potential functional food products. Moreover, it is expected that these findings will contribute to developing interests in basic research and potential applications of the phlorotannins in the relevant fields.

Nursing code of ethics

Ethics refers to the adherence to practices and processes, which are morally acceptable.   Ethical issues are what shape public opinion about an organization. In addition, a code of ethics serves as the benchmark for decision-making. In nursing and healthcare, the issue of culture is more pronounced than anywhere else. In deed, it is in the understanding of the need for a more diversified an ready to serve call that led the University of phoenix to develop a code of conduct for students which guides the nursing students and indeed a the whole university community into understanding how best to deal with the issues of professional relations . The fact that nurses are required to serve many people from various ethnic, religious, racial and cultural backgrounds who come forth to hospitals and healthcare centres in search of health solutions means that, the conduct of nurses must be guided by a common concept which in this case is the code of ethics. Due to these cultural disparities, patients often fail to receive quality services because of practices that are lacking in cultural competence. As a result, the American Association of Nursing has in place a code of ethics which aims at offering guidelines for nurses in the course of service. A code of ethics for nurses and indeed for nursing students is aimed at making sure that, nurses offer service with competence and in an efficient manner in a cross-cultural setting thus enhancing the system’s or institution’s capacity to function in effective ways. The American nursing code of ethics emphasizes on integrity, honesty, care giving, and accountability. Under the provisions in the American code of ethics, nurses are required to strictly act in accordance with the guidelines so as to ensure a smooth running of health care provision in the United States of America. The code of ethics for both nurses and students at the University of Phoenix is aimed at ensuring that, in their professional growth, professional attain qualities which influences the individual’s values, perceptions, beliefs and opinions in corresponding to the professional standards expected of nursing professionals. The US is comprised of the most culturally diverse population.   A big percentage of the world’s ethnic, religious and cultural groups are represented in this population.   This has created a most unique opportunity as well as challenge to many professionals including nursing professionals.   Nurses are presented with patients with very diverse cultural backgrounds. Culture influences how different people will respond to the different ways of health service delivery, interventions and treatment, as a result, the code of ethics is designed to streamline the actions of the nurses in regard best practice. In deed the American nursing code of ethics is designed to guide the nursing professionals into the future. In more the same way as a business strategy, the code of conduct imparts discipline and control in the nursing profession thus making sure that, the profession is ready to face future challenges. Because of the demographic situation in America service providers are under pressure to provide more culturally correct services.   The nursing profession cannot be left behind and therefore the need to comply with the changing needs is overwhelming.   One ethnical principle that guides nurses in their endeavour to provide culturally appropriate care is the appreciating that everyone regardless of their cultural persuasion is entitled to receive quality health care. Cultural differences can influence the caregiver’s prejudices and bias towards a patient.   In a similar way a patient can misconstrue the caregiver’s actions and words.   This can serve to lower the quality of care given to this particular patient.   Professional ethics require that there be no form of discrimination in the provision of health care but in a situation where there is prejudice on either party, then the quality of care is compromised. Nurses are usually supposed to care for the general well being of a patient, they ought to be able to understand and empathize with the patient inorder to cater for their physical and emotional needs.   On an individual level, a nurse has a responsibility to learn the practices that are in accordance to cultural competence. In the year 2010 more than 45% of all patients in the US will come from minority cultures.   This is due to immigration that is the greatest contributor to the cultural diversity.   The health sector has realized the reality of these facts and medical practitioners are now given incentives to encourage them to take up learning on cultural diversity. The above reasons amongst others are worthy considering in regard to how nur4ses in this country are governed. To achieve the health goals, the American nursing association must constantly address the issues at hand and specifically consider reinforcing high values. This is what the American code of conduct seeks to achieve as well as the University of Phoenix Student Code of conduct and the American code of conduct. University Phoenix student code ethics. American nursing code of ethics. http://www.nursingworld.org/ethics/ecode.htm accessed on 07/05/2007   

Is Higher Education Worth the Price Essay

When someone hears the term â€Å"higher education† the first thought tends to be college, of course. College has always been thought of as the one-way ticket to a high salary occupation. The reality of the situation is that while that may be true in some cases, it’s not as easy at it seems to receive that ticket aka the Bachelor’s degree. College tuition is a large amount and it’s even more expensive to attend college only to drop out. This leaves the student with no degree and vast amounts of debt. That debt is averaging 20,000 dollars for four years of schooling. Higher education is beneficial for anyone with the dedication to attending and knowing what they are striving for with while doing so. Achieving a Bachelor’s degree or a B. A. is a worthwhile goal for just about everyone. Why is it worth the time, effort and money to receive this diploma? Charles Murray in his article â€Å"Are Too Many People Going to College? † states, â€Å" Employers value the B. A. because it’s a no cost (for them) screening device for academic ability and perseverance† (pg. 233). The train of thought for employers is that the students with the drive and capabilities to succeed are the one’s that will attend college. This makes it close to impossible for a person with only a high school diploma to even be considered for a variety of jobs. Brian Kelly in his article â€Å"Is College Still Worth It? † has come across the same findings as Murray. He reports, â€Å" Hiring managers will tell you that creative intelligence and an ability to communicate are more useful in the long term. As a proven work ethic which is why persisting through four years of college is an admirable credential in itself† (pg. 8). College is supposed to teach a person how to think and work hard. That is something that any employer values greatly. The greater chance of a fulfilling career isn’t the only benefit to receiving a B. A. In 2007 the Census Bureau reported that the average college graduate had a yearly income of $57, 181 (Wilson pg. 260). The average high school graduate pulled in around $31, 286 yearly, leaving the college graduates earning around 80% more annually (pg. 260). Wilson also states that according to the Census Bureau the college graduate will earn around one million dollars more than the high school graduate (pg. 260). This is reason enough for many people to buckle down for the time it takes to earn his or hers degree. A fear for many is that the debt someone will leave college with will be unmanageable. The reasoning for this being unemployment rates as well as the fear of how long it will take to pay off his or hers debt. It’s true unemployment is a crisis that many are facing but it’s much scarier to be only a high school graduate in the economy currently. The rates of unemployment for a Bachelor’s degree holder over twenty-five is estimated to be around 4. 4% (Wilson pg. 260). For a high school diploma holder over twenty-five the unemployment rate is an even greater number at 9. 3% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (pg. 260). As for paying off the debt accumulated in college, those figures aren’t as frightening. According to Sandy Baum, a senior analyst at College Board, â€Å"A student with twenty thousand dollars of debt should be able to make at least that amount in extra earnings in one to two year’s time simply by having earned a college diploma† (qtd. in Wilson). What is the key to unlocking the door for a brighter future? Apparently it’s a B. A. but if this is the case then why are dropout rates so high? When students are making the decisions to go to college, they are typically pushed to attend college rather than doing so out of free will. These students are the one’s that parents, teachers, and guidance counselors assume will succeed the most in that kind of environment. The truth is rather sad when it comes to how the students actually fared in their academic pursuit. Dana Goldstein in her article â€Å"Should All Kids Go to College? † informs that only fifty three percent of students actually finish their degree in four years, and half the students that attend a two-year college drop out before finishing. But this isn’t the only surprising information she writes about in her article. There is another group of students who unlike their peers, aren’t pushed as much into attending college. Kati Haycock, president of Think Tank Trust in Washington, DC, shocks with her statement of, Most schools sill resist the idea that all kids can and should be college-ready. By continuing long-standing practices of sorting and selecting, they created what is essentially an educational caste system- directing countless young people, especially low-income students and students of color, away from college-prep courses and from seeing themselves as ‘college material’ (qtd. n Goldstein). With these standards given in high schools these students pushed away from college will not ever think of themselves as able to perform well in a college environment, which greatly limits their future professionally. Goldstein shows in her article the research showing that with the decline of the manufacturing economy these students are the ones who would gain the most from the four-year college experience. The question is now, why are these students unable to realize their potential or stay focused in college? Most of the time these teenagers are unable to say what they want to do with their careers or lives. Going to college isn’t easy for anyone without a clear idea of what their striving for, which makes the entire experience even more frustrating for them. So how can these students go into college somewhat knowing what they want to do with their time there? The best solution is to allow these teenagers to explore the professional world while still in high school. If they can do that, then they won’t spend extra time or money changing their majors all throughout college unable to decide what their desires are. There is a program that has been implemented in a few schools across the nation called Career and Technical Education or CTE (Goldstein). These programs integrate school with real world occupational training so that students can have hands on experience with a job that they would like to pursue in college. The training available to these students includes internships, dual enrollment and hands on work out in the field (Goldstein). All of this is done while in high school accomplishing their high school diploma and getting a head start on college. Programs like the previous are great ideas that the government has been using to help these students struggling find their goals. It may be a while until these CTE schools are seen more but at least the students able to take advantage of them are showing the country how beneficial the programs are. With ideas like this, it is possible to cut down on the money and time wasted during college for someone who isn’t positive they would like to be there. It also allows the students who are judged due to unfair standards to prove that they are college material and able to do great things. There would be less wondering about whether or not they want to attend college because they have experience with the career of their choosing and are able to map out their future much more clearly. Overall the idea is yes, higher education is worth the price. The Bachelor’s degree alone can take someone to higher levels than just a high school diploma. College is costly, it is time consuming, and it is hard but when someone is dedicated it becomes increasingly easier. The solutions to making college more achievable for everyone isn’t ever going to be easy but there are steps that can be taken in the right direction. As long as students aren’t discriminated against or pushed into something they are unsure of, when the time is right for them to attend college they will do so in a way that will benefit them the most. Add in programs like the Career and Technical Education schooling and these students can come out on top ready for the work force. Higher education may not be for everyone, but for the people who do take the challenge reap benefits for the rest of his or hers lives.

My Brother, My Executioner Essay

I – The Characters Estaquio â€Å"Istak† Salvador / Estaquio â€Å"Istak† Samson * Estaquio also known as Istak is a young man serves as an acolyte in the church in Cabugaw. He was raised by Padre Jose, a Spanish priest in Cabugaw and gave him good education about healing arts and other practical skills that made him fit to become a priest. Istak got sick during their stay in Cabugawan and that time, Capitan Gualberto Together with his Spanish official took An-no and killed him. Dalin * Dalin is a widow and became the wife of Estaquio â€Å"Istak† Salvador. She was brought by An-no together with her late husband who died in Po-on because of his illness. Dalin was the reason why Istak and An-no had some misunderstanding. During Istak’s journey together with their relatives in Po-on, Dalin was the one who led the way to Pangasinan because she was the one who is familiar to the place. Ba-ac * Ba-ac is the Father of Istak and the Wife of Mayang. He is very angry and at the same time, bitter to the Spanish Colony because of losing his one hand. Ba-ac was the one who killed the new priest in Cabugaw after he went and beg to the priest for Istak to be in the church again. He was also the one who led the journey to Pangasinan together with his family and relatives. He died during the journey because of the python who struck him. Mayang * Mayang is the Wife of Ba-ac and the mother of Istak, An-no and Bit-tik. She doesn’t want Dalin to be with Istak because Dalin was too young to be a widow. Mayang died in the journey to Pangasinan when Istak and Mayang was crossing the Agno river and the tree trunk hit the cart where in Mayang was inside that made the cart swallowed by the water raging down the river. Mariano â€Å"An-no† Salvador * An-no is the brother of Istak and Bit-tik and the Son of Mayang and Ba-ac. He was the one who brought Dalin to Po-on. An-no together with his family and relative went on a journey to Pangasinan. During their journey, He met Orang, Blas’ daughter and became his husband. An-no died because of Capitan Gualberto and other Spanish official who took him and killed him because of his father’s fault. Silvestre â€Å"Bit-tik† Salvador * Bit-tik is also the brother of Istak and An-no and the son of Mayang and Ba-ac. He also went to Pangasinan together with his family and relatives. During their stay in Rosales, Pangasinan. Bit-tik met Diego Silang during their stay in Rosales. He also has a girlfriend, Sabe, who leave Cabugawan, their new town and married a farmer from Carmay. But when An-no died, he took responsibility of the two children of his late brother and the farm. He became the husband of Orang, An-no’s wife. Orang * Orang is the daughter of Blas’ Ba-ac and Mayang’s relatives and the sister of Sabel who had an affair with Bit-tik, An-no’s brother. Orang became widowed when An-no got killed by the Spanish Officials but after the incident, she live with Bit-tik and became his wife. Padre Jose * Padre Jose is the Spanish priest who gave shelter and good education to Istak, an acolyte in the church in Cabugaw. Padre Jose helped Istak through Istak’s dream where he talked to his acolyte and gave him advice during their journey. Padre Jose served as an inspiration to Istak. He was also the one who taught many things to Istak that later on, helped Istak to overcome all the challenges and even sickness during their journey and during their stay in Cabugawan. Don Jacinto * Don Jacinto was a rich and educated man living in Rosales, Pangasinan. He was the one who helped Istak, his Family and Relatives in their daily needs in life. He was also the one who offered the land to the Family and Relatives of Istak. Don Jacinto was a good friend of Istak during the stay in Rosales, Pangasinan. He was also the one who lend Dr. Jose Rizal’s novels and even the newspaper to Istak in order for Istak understand more about the situation they’re going through that time. He is also a good friend of Apolinario Mabini who was staying with Don Jacinto. Apolinario Mabini * Apolinario is a good friend of Don Jacinto during that time. He is the cripple who asked for a favor to Istak. He was also the one who gave the job to Istak in delivering the letter to the President, Emilio Aguinaldo. Apolinario Mabini is well educated and has a passion in writing. He continued writing because he wants to encourage people to be united as one and fight against the nation’s freedom. General Pio Del Pilar * General Pio Del Pilar was a general that time who led the fight against the Americans. He was also the one whom Istak talked with regarding the letter that Apolinario Mabini sent to the President, Emilio Aguinaldo. Istak joined his army in defeating the Americans that time. II – Summary of the Novel Estaquio â€Å"Istak† Salvador is an acolyte in the church in Cabugaw. Istak served in the convent for almost ten years. His mentor, Padre Jose was the one who gave him shelter, food and even good education which made Istak fluent in Filipino, Latin and Spanish and even familiar with practical skills and medicine. With Istak’s knowledge, he was fit to be a priest and someday, Padre Jose told him that he could go to Vigan and be serve the church there as a priest. But when the time comes, when Padre Jose was replaced by a new younger Spanish priest in Cabugaw, Istak was sent home to Po-on because the priest told him that he doesn’t need him anymore and maybe because of what Istak saw during his stay in the Church where in the new Spanish priest, having an illicit sex to one of Capitan Berong’s daughter. The time comes when the new priest told them to evacuate the land that they don’t even own. Because of this, Istak’s father, Ba-ac who is angry and bitter to the Spanish colony because of what happened to his one hand, went to Cabugaw and beg to the priest to allow them to stay in the land for just one harvest since they don’t have anything to keep if they will leave the village. He also begged to the priest to allow his son, Istak to go back to the church and serve as an acolyte again but the priest doesn’t allow them. During that time, Ba-ac was surprised to find out that the priest he was talking was the one who ordered his official to looped Ba-ac’s hand until it became numb. Due to Ba-ac’s anger, he killed the young Spanish priest with the use of a silver crucifix. With this, he was forced to move out to Po-on immediately together with his family and relatives. He went to a journey to Pangasinan in order for him to escape the punishment of the Spanish government to him. During their preparation for the upcoming escape in po-on, An-no, brought Dalin together with her sick husband to the village and eventually died because of the illness. The Family and Relatives of Ba-ac immediately moved out the village except for Istak who refused to go with them. But when the Spanish officials reached Po-on, everyone left except for Istak that made his life in danger. He was closer to death that time but luckily, Dalin went to him and saved him. Their journey starts which led by Dalin and Istak who are familiar with the road. They also met Blas and his daughters during the journey to Pangasinan. During their voyage, they’ve been through a lot of challenges. One of Istak’s relatives got killed because of the encounter of the Bagos. Ba-ac also died during the journey to Pangasinan because of the Python who waited and attacked him. When they reach the Agno River, an unexpected situation happened when Istak together with Mayang, his mother was crossing the river then suddenly a huge tree trunk hit the cart where Mayang was staying that caused Istak’s mother’s death. They finally reached Rosales, Pangasinan through journeying for almost two weeks. When they reached Rosales, the people living their told them to go to Don Jacinto, a well known man in the place and ask for some help. Istak never wasted a chance, instead, he went to Don Jacinto’s house in Rosales, Pangasinan and asked for some help. Don Jacinto didn’t hesitate to help them. He gave a land to them where they can start their new life. Istak’s family and relatives called their new village, Cabugawan, since they are from Cabugaw. They lived in Cabugawan for almost ten years. During their stay, Istak and Dalin got married and had two sons namely, Antonio and Pedro. An-no and Orang also lived together but An-no died because of the Spanish officials and Capitan Gualberto who took him. Later on, Bit-tik and Orang lived together and Bit-tik took the responsibility of his brother’s children. Istak became close to Don Jacinto and soon enough, he also became close to Apolinario Mabini, Don Jacinto’s friend. That time, Mabini was sick and Istak gave him some medicines for him to drink. As time goes by, Istak earned the trust of Don Jacinto and Apolinario Mabini. He was asked by Mabini to send the letter to the President, Emilio Aguinaldo. During Istak’s trip, he experienced problems because of the Americans who were in the country that time. In Istak’s trip, he encountered American officials who shot his horse, Kimat. He also encountered problems where American burned the whole village and killed all the people there. He finally reached a village where General Del Pilar was. Istak lost the letter addressed to the president but instead, he told the General about the letter of Mabini, what he really wants for the country to be united as one. But Gen Del Pilar was not convinced and he sent Istak home. Istak never went home but instead, he stayed and joined General Pio Del Pilar’s army against the American soldiers. III – Analysis of the Novel A. Literary Analysis Characters Estaquio â€Å"Istak† Salvador/ Estaquio â€Å"Istak† Samson * Estaquio Salvador is the Major/Central Character in the Novel, Po-on by F. Sionil Jose. He was the one who resolves the conflict between Ba-ac and the Spanish Officials by leaving Po-on and gives information to his family and relatives of what he have learned during his stay in the convent and his journey with Padre Jose. Istak Salvador is also the Protagonist in the Novel since he was the one who faced the conflict during the time where the new priest wanted them to banished in Po-on and he was also the one who faced and experience situations where in he almost died. Istak is also a dynamic character since he changes his personality during the period. At first, he was contented in healing, teaching his fellow villagers but as time goes by, when he was asked to deliver the letter to the president and when he met Gen. Del Pilar, He leave what he used to do way back to Rosales and began to join the army to fight with the Americans. Ba-ac * Ba-ac, the father of Istak, Bit-tik and An-no, and the wife of Mayang is the Major/Central Character in the novel. He was the one who somehow resolves the conflict between him, Istak’s and the new Spanish priest in Cabugaw by begging the new priest to accept Istak in the convent. He was also the one who lead Po-on villagers to leave the village. Dalin * Dalin, a widow and the wife of Istak played as a Minor Character in the Novel, Po-on. In the novel, Dalin was the one who helped Istak and the Po-on villagers by leading the way to Pangasinan since she was familiar with the place. Mayang, An-no, Bit-tik, Orang * Mayang, the wife of Ba-ac, An-no and Bit-tik, the sons of Mayang and Ba-ac and Orang serve as Minor Characters in the novel. They were the one who helped Istak, Ba-ac and fellow Po-on villagers in journeying the land of Pangasinan. Padre Jose * Padre Jose, a Spanish priest in Cabugaw serves a Minor Character in the novel. He was the one who helped Istak by giving him enough education, teaching him about medicine and other practical skills and by teaching him different languages such as Spanish and Latin. He akso helped Istak during their journey when he appeared in Istak’s dream. The journey that Padre Jose and Istak had also helped Istak in journeying their way to pangasinan since Istak became familiar with the roads they are seeking that time. Don Jacinto and Apolinario Mabini * Don Jacinto, a well known man in Rosales, Pangasinan serves as a Minor Character in the novel. He helped Istak during their stay in Rosales, Pangasinan. He even gave lands to the Po-on Villagers. Don Jacinto also helped Istak to broaden his learning when it comes to the social situations in the country by lending him newspapers and other materials that Dr. Jose Rizal wrote. Apolinario Mabini, Don Jacinto’s close friend and became Istak’s friend also serves as a Minor Character in the Novel. Apolinario helped Istak during his stay in Rosales by giving writings that helped Istak in understanding the situations in the country. New Priest in Cabugaw and Capitan Gualberto * They serve as the antagonists in the novel, Po-on. The new priest was the one who ordered to loop Ba-ac’s hand and the one who want to banished the villagers in Po-on and other villages in Cabugaw. Capitan Gualberto serves as an antagonist in the novel because he was the one who seek for Ba-ac’s family in Rosales, Pangasinan and the one who killed An-no as a payment for Ba-ac’s mistake. Plot The event in the novel, Po-on by F. Sionil happened from 1880 to 1889. During this time, the Salvador Family together with their relatives who live in the village abandoned their beloved village, Po-on because of the sin that Ba-ac, the father of Istak, An-no and Bit-tik and the Husband of Mayang committed when he killed the new priest after realizing that he was the one who ordered to loop Ba-ac’s hand until it became numb. When Salvador Family and other Po-on villagers leave Po-on, Istak, the acolyte who served for more than 10 years in the convent in Cabuyaw intended to stay in the village, hoping that the Spanish officials will accept and understand what happened in the convent. Unfortunately, Istak got nearly killed by the Spanish Officials and the Village was burned and turned into ashes. Dalin waited for Istak and was the one who took care of him when he got almost killed by those Officials. The Po-on Villagers leave Cabugaw and took the journey to Pangasinan where they can start their lives again and for them to escape the cruelty of those Spanish officials who are looking for Ba-ac. During their journey to Pangasinan, they encountered many challenges that tested their patience, unity and strength. During their voyage, they encountered Capitan Gualberto who once checked the carts of the Po-on Villagers. When they reached the mountain, they encountered Bagos who killed a Po-on Villager uring the attack. Their journey to the mountain became difficult for the villagers. Ba-ac was killed during the journey to the mountain when a Python waited for the right moment to strike on its prey. Istak, who noticed that his father was no longer seated in the cart went back to check for his father but he found out that the Python was crushing the body of Ba-ac that caused his death. The Villagers now reached the Agno River but the current of the water is too fast that caused Mayang’s death when she and Istak finally crossing the river then suddenly, a tree trunk hit their cart. Salvador Brothers namely Istak, An-no and Bit-tik, together with their relatives now reached Rosales, Pangasinan. During their Arrival, the people in Rosales told the po-on villagers to ask Don Jacinto for help. Istak doesn’t hesitate to go and ask for Don Jacinto’s help and luckily, they were given a land to develop and claim it as their own, and named their land, Cabugawan. During their stay in Cabugawan, Istak are doing some healing to those who are sick. That time, a harmful disease was spreading in the nearby town that made Cabugawan Villagers threatened. As time goes by, the Spanish officials together with Capitan Gualberto reached the place where the Po-on villagers are staying. During that time, Istak got sick and he was too weak to function. When he finally recover from his Illness, Dalin, now his wife told him that these officials took An-no and killed him as the payment for what their father did way back in Cabugaw. During their stay in Rosales, Istak became closer to Don Jacinto and Apolinario Mabini, Don Jacinto’s good friend. Istak worked for Apolinario Mabini that time as the one who writes the draft made by Apolinario. As time goes by, the trust between Istak, Apolinario and Don Jacinto became stronger that made Apolinario trust Istak with the letter to be delivered to the President of the Philippines, Emilio Aguinaldo. When Istak journeyed to the location of the President of the Philippines, he encountered Americans who killed people in the village and Burned the whole village. The horse lend by Don Jacinto was shot during his encounter with the Americans that made Istak walked on the road and even in the mountains. He finally reached a village where he can buy a horse and that time, he met General Pio Del Pilar who lead the Filipino army against the Americans. Istak told the General about the letter for the president given by Apolinio Mabini that was lost. General Del Pilar asked Istak to leave the village immediately but Istak stayed and finally realized to join the army of General Pio Del Pilar. Setting The event in Po-on happened in Ilocos Region and the Cordillera Mountain Range. Po-on was in Cabugaw, Ilocos. When Istak’s family and relatives went to Pangasinan, they settled in Rosales. It all happened during the last few years of the Spanish Colonization and few months of American period. Point of View Estaquio, also known as Istak is the third person who is talking in the novel, Po-on. He was the one who narrates what happened when he and Padre Jose had their journey, and when they had a conversation in his dream. Estaquio also portrayed the first person in the novel because at some point, he was the one narrating what happened during his and Padre Jose’s journey. The author, F. Sionil Jose is the third person talking in the novel because he is the one who narrates the story by this personal point of view. Dalin, Istak’s wife portrayed the third person in the novel because there is time where she narrates what happened to her life during her voyage with her parents. Theme The theme of the novel, Po-on by F. Sionil Jose is the birth of the Philippine nation and the awakening of the Filipino citizens regarding the situations of the country during the Spanish and American Period. The theme of the novel is also the suffering of the people and the will of God. B. Sociological Analysis The political and social situations revolved in the novel, Po-on were the Spanish and Americans who claimed the Filipinos’ land, as their own land and how those people who called themselves superiors act in the society. The officials during that time only think about theirselves and how they will inherit all the lands in the country. Those officials who treated theirselves as superiors did everything that they can do to the citizens in the Philippines. They don’t have any respect to the people in the country especially to the women who were abused by those officials. C. Values The values that were present in the novel are the uniqueness of each person, empowerment, learning community and delight in the spiritual adventure with god. The uniqueness of each person portrayed in the novel serves as a big help for them to overcome all the challenges in life. This uniqueness includes the ability of each person to do everything that will make his/her life more meaningful, the strength and patience of each person experiencing challenges. The learning community is also present in the novel since the people in Po-on and now based in Cabugawan, Rosales, Pangasinan learned new techniques in handling their new life in Pangasinan. The people in Cabugawan learned to enhance their skills when it comes to field works. Lastly, the delight in the spiritual adventure with God is also present in the novel since Istak and other Po-on natives have a strong belief with God and offer their selves to the purpose of god for their lives. These values relate to the core values in Assumption College because just like the people portrayed in the novel, the core values of Assumption also portrayed the students and faculty when it comes to the morals of Assumption College. D. The Image of the Woman The images of the women portrayed in the novel are strong and very independent when it comes to field works. Dalin showed how strong she is when it comes to challenges. She had been through a lot of challenges in life that tested her patience and strength. Orang, Blas’ daughter also showed strength when she was took advantage by the Spanish officials. Despite of what happened to her, she remained strong. Mayang, Ba-ac’s wife also showed strength when Ba-ac died. She is also independent when it comes to her works in the village. These women were not respected by the Spanish officials that time. That time, they were inferior to the eyes of these officials. E. Relevance In the novel, Po-on, some of the situations happened that time were also present in the society today. It showed how people were abused, were not respected by those people who think they are superior. As a woman, the situation happened during Dalin and Orang’s time struck me because nowadays, it is still happening in the society. Women are abused by men, trying to get the dignity of these women. The social issues happened that time is also present in our society today. The Spanish officials present in the novel can be portrayed by the government officials who are present today. They have somehow the same traits; Acting as if they are superiors, as if they own the lives of the people in the society. The novel imparted the people nowadays how those people present during that time feel and experience. IV – Conclusion All in all, the novel, Po-on written by F. Sionil Jose portrayed the life of Istak and the Cabugawan Villagers in their newly hometown, Rosales in Pangasinan. After so many years of healing and teaching, Istak finally realized that he will just forget the things he used to do in Cabugawan and joined the army of General Pio Del Pilar who are against the Americans. Istak finally joined the army and leave his fate to God’s hand. Istak didn’t even bother going back to Cabugawan when General Pio Del Pilar asked him to. He finally forgets all the things he used to do in his hometown and do what is right for the country.