Hitchens’s Concepts of Religion and Politics Essay

One of the most controversial man, Christopher Hitchens, in his letters, â€Å"Letters to a Young Contrarian† (2001), implies that people of the contemporary society should avoid thinking other than for themselves by taking on the pathway of being a contrarian. His purpose is to help â€Å"individuals on how they think, and not what they think by making them a more independent and questioning person† (63). The letters take us through a pathway of what is means to be a contrarian. He uses great personal and current examples to explain why individuals should have a voice for their own. Two of the most important topics in which he heavily discusses about are religion and racism. Throughout Hitchens letters, he uses pathos and logos appeals to create arguments in which defy religion and racism in an effective manner. One of the most debatable topics in Hitchens’s letters is about religion.Hitchens argues his point on why he is against religion using an ethos approach. He gains credibility with the audience by mentioning, â€Å"I can speak with more experience of the Christian propaganda, since I was baptized ass an Anglican, educated at a Methodist boarding school with compulsory religious instruction and was once received into the Greek Orthodox Church for reasons that are irrelevant here.† (59) While I do agree that he has gained some credibility being that he once experienced a life of what it’s like to be a believer of God, I don’t think it makes his argument any stronger. In this way, Hitchens argue his beliefs and appealing to the audience’s emotions. â€Å"In some ways I feel sorry for racists and for religious fanatics, because they miss the point of being human, and deserve a sort of pity. But then I harden my heart, and decide to hate them all the more, because of the misery they inflict and because of the contemptible excuse they advance for doing so. It especially annoys me when racists are accused of discrimination. The ability to discriminate is a precious faculty; by judging all members of one ‘race’ to be the same, the racist precisely shows himself incapable of discrimination.† (110)

Cultural Prohibition of Food in Two Societies

Many people of different cultures and religions define themselves not only by what their religious beliefs are but also by what food they eat and the different ways in which they prepare it (Campo 2009). Food is one important factor of everyday life that brings people together and links people to the natural and sacred worlds (Campo 2009). Since the beginning of time dietary practices have been incorporated into the religious practices of different people around the globe. Some religious sects abstain, or are forbidden from consuming certain food and drink. Others restrict food and drink in their holy days, while some associate dietary and food preparation practices with rituals of the faith (Waibel 2004). These dietary practices are known as the cultural prohibition of food. In this essay I will discuss the Islamic dietary laws and the Hindu dietary requirements that are practiced around the world. The Muslim cultural prohibition of food plays a very significant role in the lives of Muslims around the world . The Islamic dietary laws are a matter of both social custom and religion (Campo 2009). In Islamic dietary laws, foods are categorized into different groups. These groups include those that are lawful (HALAL), those that are forbidden (HARAM) and those that are pure (tahir, tayibb) and those that are impure (rajis, najis). These divisions of what foods are lawful-pure and what foods are forbidden-impure are based on the QURAN and HADITH, the Islamic sources of revelation (Campo 2009). The Quran instructs people to eat only lawful and good things from the earth and not to â€Å"follow in Satan’s footsteps† (Q 2:168). The most general statement in the Quran about food is one that was intended for â€Å"children of Adam†: â€Å"Eat and drink, but do not be wasteful, for god does not like wasteful people† (Q 7:31) (Campo 2009). It is clear from both of these verses that ethics plays a major role in the practicing of the Islamic dietary laws. The Quran also identifies specific foods that God has provided for people to eat. These include the following; dates, grapes, olives, pomegranates, grains and the flesh of domestic sheep, goats, cattle and camels (Q 6:99, 141-145; 80:25 -32) (Campo 2009). Muslims can only consume meat where the animal has been slaughtered or sacrificed in accordance to specific rules: â€Å"The name of God (BASMALA) must be invoked (Q 6:118, 121), and a deep incision with a sharp knife must be made across the throat. Most seafood can be eaten (Q 5:96; 16:14), as well as hunted animals as long as the name of God has been pronounced when the hunting weapon is discharged (Q 5:4)† (Campo 2009). The Quran also forbids believing Muslims from eating carrion (Meat from unsacrificed dead things), spilt blood, pork and food that has been offered to idols rather then God (Q 5:3; 6:145). Other forbidden food such as the flesh of predators (animals with fangs or talons) is also included in the HADITH. The Muslim jurists consider meat from an animal that has not been correctly slaughtered as carrion (inedible). This includes animals that have been beaten to death, strangled, killed by a fall, or gored to death (Q 5:3). Wine is also prohibited along with other intoxicating substances. All of these forbidden foods and substances are said to be impure and can prevent Muslims from fulfilling their religious duties unless removed or avoided. Sometimes exceptions can be made when the situation is dire (Campo 2009). Specific dietary rules can also apply when it comes to worshipping and other activities in Muslim life. Prayer, fasting during Ramadan, Almsgiving, and the Hajj all involve restrictions and procedures concerning food that people are meant to abide by (Campo 2009). The offering of food is considered an important act of charity, but the food that is offered cannot be forbidden. Rules of etiquette are also recommended for special occasions involving hospitality and feasting as well as ordinary meals (Campo 2009). Hindu dietary requirements, like those of the Islamic dietary laws play a major role into the lives of many Hindus around the world. According to Arjun Appadurai â€Å" The density, scope and taxonomic complexity of Hindu symbolic thought in regard to food is difficult to capture in a brief space† (Appadural 1981). A love of nature and the importance of living a simple, natural life are the basis of Hinduism, which is a faith that originated in India (ElGindy 2010). The Hindu faith promotes a vegetarian lifestyle and encompasses a number of health beliefs and dietary practices. These practices arise from the idea of living in harmony with nature and having mercy and respect for all of God’s creations (ElGindy 2010). Devout Hindu’s believe that all of God’s creations including both humans and animals are worthy of respect and compassion. Therefore Hinduism promotes a vegetarian lifestyle with avoidance of eating animal meat or flesh (ElGindy 2010). However some Hindu’s choose not to practice vegetarianism and may adhere to the Hindu dietary codes in different degrees of strictness. For example, some Hindu’s avoid eating beef and pork (which are strictly prohibited in the Hindu diet code, especially beef because cows occupy a special place in the Hindu religion), but will eat all other meats (ElGindy 2010). Hindu’s believe that food affects both the body and the mind and a proper diet is considered to be vital for spiritual development in Hinduism. The Hindu diet code divides food into three separate categories, based on the foods effect on the body and the temperament (ElGindy 2010). The first is known as Tamasic food. This is food that is leftover, stale, overripe, spoiled or other impure food, which is believed to produce negative emotions such as jealousy, anger and greed. The second is known as Rejasic food. This is food that is believed to produce strong emotional qualities, passions and restlessness in the mind. The food in this category includes eggs, meat, fish, garlic, onions, spices, hot peppers, pickles and other pungent spicy foods. The last is known as Satvic food. This is the most desirable food and is food that is non-irritating to the stomach and purifying to the mind. The foods in this category include fruits, nuts, whole grains and vegetables. These foods are believed to produce calmness and nobility (ElGindy 2010). Hindu’s believe that for true service to God, purity of food is necessary to maintain the desirable state of mind that leads to enlightenment† (ElGindy 2010). Food is consumed to achieve mind/body equilibrium and good pure food promotes a peaceful – non agitated-mind. â€Å"Sin or an agitated state of mind, prevents the journey to moksha (divine supreme knowledge, which leads to freedom from the cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth† (ElGindy 2010). Religion is the major factor when it comes to the prohibition of food around the world. Both the Muslim culture and the Hindu culture promote Holiness and pure lives through the prohibition of certain foods. A question of ethics arises from the practicing of such laws in both cultures. They also promote kindness and charity among people. There are many similarities between the two cultures in both the way they live their lives and the way in which they consume food according to their dietary laws and requirements. One major similarity is that both cultures categorize foods into groups, with certain foods being classified as being either pure or impure. Another similarity then arises from this as there are similar foods that are classified as pure, good foods to eat in both societies ,for example fruits and grains. Both cultures have specific foods that are forbidden, such as, meat that has not been slaughtered in accordance with specific rules for Muslims and Stale, leftover, overripe and spoiled food for Hindu’s. The main similarity between the two cultures is that they both strive to live pure, spiritual lives through the practicing of their dietary laws. For both cultures, if they do not abide by their dietary laws they cannot live fulfilled religious lives. As well as many similarities between the two cultures of Muslim and Hindu, there are also a few differences between the way in which they live their lives and dietary laws that they follow. One of the main differences between them is that Muslims can eat meat, as long as the animal has been slaughtered in the correct way, whereas Hindu’s promote a vegetarian lifestyle because they believe that all of God’s creations are equal. Although some Hindu’s may choose to eat meat (apart from beef and pork), depending on the level of strictness in which they follow their dietary laws. Another difference is that Islamic dietary laws are a matter of social custom and religion. Special etiquette is required at social gatherings such as feasts, as well as ordinary meals, for example, â€Å"pronouncing the basmala, taking food and drink with the right hand and not reclining while eating† (Campo 2009). Another difference between Muslims and Hindus is that Hindus believe that food is good for both the body and the mind. They believe that certain foods can create different emotions when consumed. For example, they believe that impure food can make someone angry, jealous and greedy (ElGindy 2010). The cultural prohibition of food in both the Muslim society and the Hindu society is a very strong element in the religious lives of those who practice these faiths. Firstly I would like to point out that ethics appear to be a major influencer into the practicing of dietary laws and codes in these religions. This is because people of both religions strive to live a fulfilled spiritual life, which they cannot have if they eat foods, which are not considered as being pure. This brings me to my next point, which is, both Muslims and Hindu’s classify foods into groups based on whether the food is pure or impure. In both societies people want to eat pure food and avoid impure food so that they can live a pure life. Certain rituals and rules apply to both cultures when it comes to how food is prepared before it is consumed. Sometimes in both cultures exceptions can be made to these laws in dire circumstances. In conclusion the cultural prohibition of food in the Muslim society and the Hindu society helps people to reach religious equilibrium, which is something that all people who practice the faith strive to achieve. From the research that I have conducted into the study of the prohibition of food I have found that both the Muslim faith and the Hindu faith follow similar morals and belief systems and place significant importance on the key ideas of holiness, pure, impure, kindness, generosity, equality and charity.

Environmental Discourse Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Environmental Discourse - Essay Example Green Evangelicalism Prelli and Winters (2009, p.224) state that there are different views presented by Christian evangelicals and environmentalists regarding environmental problems like human-induced global warming and climate change. When evangelicals presented the idea to make interventions to fight climate change, they were struck with surprise by environmentalists and common people because they were not expecting them to point out this issue. â€Å"†¦many people were struck by the apparent incongruity of American evangelicals addressing the climate change problem†, state Prelli and Winters (2009, p.225). Sustainable Development The supporters of sustainable development argue that sustainable construction gives important consideration to the environmental impacts besides creating a structure or building that is user-friendly and comfortable. It ensures that damage risks to the building, residents and environment are eliminated. The main objective of sustainable constr uction is to build healthier buildings which tend to comfort society, improve biodiversity, reduce polluting emissions, and ensure less consumption of resources. The opponents of this discourse believe that sustainable development has â€Å"certain serious shortcomings that need to be addressed† (Haque, 2000, p.3).

Changing Human Behavior Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Changing Human Behavior - Research Paper Example I strongly believe that way I know him and understand his work pattern, no one does in the office. It is because we mostly share projects and work in a team sometimes; hence I am well-aware of his all work patterns moves and strategies. I have been working with him since more than 3 years, and I have observed that he spent more than enough time on each project mainly because his mind stays distract firstly due to his smoking habit and secondly he uses social networking websites during work hours (Kochan & Lipsky, 2003). Due to his habits and slight non-serious behavior towards deadline of work submission, he often completes his individual projects late. Also, in a team, project most of the times others members have to put extra efforts on his behalf. Although, he wastes a lot of his time in smoking after every ten to minutes, but more than that his mind is distracted due to his habit and interest in using social networking websites during work time. Thus, to help him quit his addiction to social networking, a month back I arranged an informal meeting with him at his favorite restaurant (Alvesson & Sveningsson, 2008). I strongly believe that emotional counseling can help one rethink about own strengths and weaknesses. I planned to talk to him normally about my own family, friends and social issues around in the city or community. Then, coming to the point I told him about some of those seniors in our company who initiated their job career as beginner content developers in game division, and within three years they have now been promoted to senior designation. I intentionally discouraged him initially by saying that he cannot get promotion in this or any other organization to hit his emotions regarding job career and importance of everyday or month performance in an organization. I was sure he will surely argue with me and try to find out reason behind my

Physical Science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Physical Science - Essay Example Finally, the photo thermal effect is where the photons absorbed transform to heat energy (phonons) through vibration of molecules. Energy can also transform when nuclear reactions occur. Through fission or fusion, subatomic particles are rearranged hence creating a transformation of energy. The final factor that facilitates transmission of energy from one form to another is the action of forces. These forces include gravitational force, frictional force and electromagnetic force fields (Rathore, 2011). A common transformation is that of kinetic energy to heat energy. The atoms of a substance are in constant, random motion. As the atoms slide against each other molecules come into contact and, therefore, interact via electromagnetic fields causing vibration. The random vibration of molecules and atoms in a substance result in the increase of pressure within the substance. These vibrations may also increase with an increase in external or internal temperature of the substance. An incre ase in the vibration of the substance’s molecules and the subsequent increase in pressure transform potential energy into kinetic energy thereby leading to an increase in the kinetic energy. High kinetic energy is an indication of high temperature, therefore, heat energy (Rathore, 2011). Energy is necessary for running peoples everyday lives. A common source of energy in the world today is fossil fuel. Fossil fuels are hydrocarbon compounds formed through the biochemical decomposition of organic compounds over millions of years. Examples of fossil fuels include oil, coal and natural gases such as butane. These fuels are attractive sources of energy because of various reasons. The first reason is that these sources of energy can be utilized differently to produce energy. One can burn them directly or derive other compounds such as petroleum, used to run vehicle engines, in the case of oil. Above the efficiency, other products such as plastic are derivatives of fuels such as oi l. A single location with fossil fuel can produce large amounts of energy beating the prospecting and mining costs by ten folds. Through pipelines, it is particularly convenient and cost effective to transport oil and natural gas from one station to the other. Finally, gas run power plants are extremely efficient, and they can be located anywhere there are abundant gas sources (Pimentel, 2008). Fossil fuels are non renewable and a potent source of pollution through carbon emissions. With the pressing need to curb global warming and its adverse effects, new environmental friendly energy sources need to replace fossil fuels. Wind energy is a clean, renewable source of energy. Tapping wind energy requires the construction of turbines. Wind posses kinetic energy that turns these turbines, through this process, kinetic energy turns into mechanical energy. This energy runs the generator connected to the turbines hence producing electric energy. Locating a wind power station is more taskin g than locating a fossil fuel station. However, the energy produced by wind is clean compared to fossil fuel energy. Also, the cost of constructing a wind farm can be offset through the subsequent efficient production of energy (Pimentel, 2008). Another source of energy scientists seem to approve in place of fossil fuel energy is solar energy. This form of energy requires the utilization of the photo thermal effect. Solar cells absorb the photons within the sun rays. The photons transform the solar cell electrons into conduction

Bring Your Own Device Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Bring Your Own Device - Research Paper Example The first section of this paper briefly introduces the BYOD/BYOT trend and implications for all the stakeholders in the educational sector and highlights the public discourse surrounding the trend. The second section discusses the theory underlying the BYOD/BEYOT trend by synthesizing arguments of peer-reviewed journal articles and creating connections with educational practice in an actual educational setting. This section also highlights specific gains of the BYOD trend in terms of positive changes in educational practice among other things. The third section of the paper provides my own stance on the manner in which the BYOD trend can be addressed in school, besides reviewing the overall findings of the discussion and reflecting on what it means for my own thinking about teaching and learning. Eventually, this section draws upon authoritative evidence in support of a claim that the BYOD trend has certain ramifications for teaching and learning in schools, which must be considered by decision makers. In recognition of the rapidly changing times, the need to enable students to adjust effectively to the contemporary information society and to take advantage of the modern digital technology in education, schools have sought to provide computers and other digital technologies for use by learners (Hill, 2011). However, due to financial constraints and the high cost of digital technologies, not many schools have been able to provide sufficient computers and digital technologies for their students.

Formal Report Presentation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Formal Report Presentation - Essay Example Inspiration to be physical therapy assistant: The inspiration to be assistant physical therapists goes back to my younger years. My favorite uncle got a car accident, which made him almost immobile. With curiosity, I asked whether my uncle would ever walk again. I missed the many walks and trails he took me to almost every fortnight. My mother informed that my uncle would be better through physical therapy. As young as I was, I never forgot that name despite the fact that it was beyond my age knowledge. It was challenging to see my uncle go through physical therapy. From that time onwards, I decided that I learn physical therapy to assist people like my uncle. It was beyond my imagination, thinking just how many people suffer from such problems in the world. The need and demand for physical therapy assistant services: According to the Government of Canada (2013), the demand for physical therapy has increased over the years. The United States Department of Labor (2012) indicates there is high demand for physical therapists in the United States. The high number of accidents and violence has increased the demand for the physical therapy services. Why Physical therapy is important to me: the fact that my uncle walked eventually, even though he limbs was a revelation that many people in the society can get help and be better. In that regard, I focused on physical therapy because it could touch the lives of many people in the society significantly. My future: it is my desire to continue serving the society in my current role. In the future, I would like to assist in addressing the problems this medical field faces. Improvement in physical therapy field will affect even more people by improving their lives for the better. Doctor Stewart: Physical therapy is a solution to immobility. This medical field has made it possible for accident victims to be mobile again in the future. The kind of

UK Deregulated Banking and Economic Downturn Essay

UK Deregulated Banking and Economic Downturn - Essay Example According to Economy Watch (2010), the Banking Industry was once a simple and a reliable business; but, deregulation and technology have transformed the industry considerably. Banking regulation ensures correction of market imperfections and unfair distribution of resources (Central Banks, 2011). Therefore, deregulation of financial institutions saw the domination of the industry by the selected few, and they acted according to their selfish gain. According to Lyons (1999-2011), every aspect of banking is regulated by federal or state agencies. The Thatcherism regime in its quest to deregulate the banking industry generated a chain of imperfection towards failure in the financial sector (Enqdahl, 2009). Deregulation is expected to have considerable effects on the real economy if t significant changes were placed in the structure, and efficiency of the banking industry (Strahan, 2002). Overreliance on a deregulated banking system in the United Kingdom saw the large financial instituti ons dominate the sector across a wider geographical area. This led to loss of local market concentration as they only pursued entering the market rather than consolidating within a local market. Banks play a central economic role; thus, affecting the well being of every sector in the economy (According to about.com 2011). The motivation for bankers to undermine and hinder prudent regulation is inherent in the compensation incentives of bankers (Gilani, 2009). With deregulation, transparency in the activities of the institutions is inhibited. Deregulation of the Banking Industry in the United Kingdom saw rapid growth in credits within the financial sector (The Turner Review, 2009). This was orchestrated by the freedom in the banking sector as banks could formulate their own policies without reliance to the state approval. On the same note, significant wholesale and overseas funding surged the economy into deep crises (Economic crisis and Market Upheavals, 2011). Investment in the mar ket was heightened in the sense that one could access investment in the UK risk-free index government bonds with a yield to maturity over 3% real and this could even surge down to1% (The Turner Review, 2009). In the UK, trading activity was underpinned by the securitized credit model, and as the home of several leading banks, it was affected greatly by the impact of the economic downturn. A number of features increased risks contributing to the credit boom in the upswing and enhancing the nature of the down swing that followed (Economic Watch, 2010). This saw losses and liquidity strains escalate in the financial market, housing problems became widespread, as the prices of houses shot down, and credit supply dwindled down and the eventual problems with funding of the UK mortgage banks intensifying (Economic crisis and Market Upheavals, 2011). Factors that were escalated by the deregulation of the banking industry included among others; massive growth, and complexity of the securitiz ed credit model, increased commercial banks involvement in trading activities, heightened leverage in multiple forms followed (Economic Watch, 2010).. Also, the expanded maturity, complexity of structured credit and derivative system and lack of adequate capital buffers contributed to the escalation of the

Roman State Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Roman State - Essay Example The Romans usually described by their cultural-identity in very simple terms, which included the use of Latin language, regard for traditional Latin literature, loyalty to Roman laws and hereditary civilization. Else - everyone who wasn't a Romanian and didn't want to share this way of life - was barbarian (P.J. Geary, 2001, pp. 107-109). By the similar gauge, all persons who lived inside the borders of Rome were, theoretically, tied by their widespread contribution in Roman culture (P.J. Geary, 2001, pp. 107-109). Following the fall of Alexander and the rejection of Greek domination in the 3rd century BC, the Illyrians twisted their fates to piracy (P.A. Brunt, 1976, pp. 161-74). Carrying out their invasions from the isolated waterfronts of the coastline, they devastate the shoreline of Italy along with Greece and victimized the commerce of the Adriatic. In return to help calls from Greece, Rome demanded a termination of the piracy, but the Illyrians discarded. This negative response caused two consecutive trounces in the Roman wars of 229 and 219 BCE. Illyria, but, remained an influential Empire with its center at Skodra, until 180 BCE, when the Dalmatians stated themselves autonomous of Ruler Gentius (P.A. Brunt, 1976, pp. 161-74). ... They, but, opposed to yield Romans annexation until the earliest part of the 1st century CE. They tied in an endeavor with the Pannonians and to set free their provinces from Romans in 6 C.E. and they were not finally controlled until 9 C.E. by Augustus and Tiberius (P.A. Brunt, 1976, pp. 161-74). From that time on, the entire of Illyria was occupied and unified as the Roman territory of Illyricum and finally developed to be one of the major employing grounds for the Rome's army. Finally, as it developed into highly-Romanized, it was acknowledged as the hometown of some Emperors counting Diocletion. After the demise of King Prasutagus (AD 50-60), though, the Roman overseers in Britain made the Iceni a subject populace. In Iceni, Boudicca was a true combatant ruler. In 60-61 A.D., she enthused and directed the biggest rebellion in opposition to Romans in Britain. Rome had got the wrong impression about Boudicca and the Iceni. Instead of yielding to Romans, Boudicca lifted up a massive army and guided them in opposition to Roman's forces in Britain. Nine out of ten Rome's legions were busy in Wales, combating with Druids. There was less-effective resistance as Boudicca and her territorial army swept into the business centre of Londinium on the Thames (Guy De La Bedoyere, 2003, pp. 64). Rome routed the Britons in one of the very old world's most blood-spattered massacres. The Romans way of life was not as good as all over the place than it is nowadays, mainly for the minor classes. The command was an armed domination - a benevolent one, but domination however. Possessing complete Roman nationality, the former soldiers were at the peak of the 'totem pole' amongst citizens. This was particularly significant as the essential feature of Romanization demanded the

Blended Learning Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Blended Learning - Assignment Example In the review of related literature, you need to offer some definitions for traditional face-to-face learning processes, its advantages and disadvantages, the perceptions of teachers towards using it, the perceptions of students towards being taught through it, and any other related materials. When the above is achieved, you need to conduct a thorough literature review on online assessment and teaching, its origins, its impacts on the learning processes of students, its advantages and limitations, teachers perceptions and attitudes towards its use, as well as students' perceptions and attitudes towards being taught using the system. In all this, you need to actively research on some previous studies that have been undertaken on traditional face-to-face learning processes as well as on the online learning processes and assessment. You need to compare and contrast the two, and your analysis must be based on reliable information. That's why you need to undertake a deep literature review. ... 4. How is it perceived by both the students and the teachers Here, expound more on different perceptions and attitudes held by both the teachers and the students. Be sure to include attitudes and perceptions that are specific to the country where the case study will be carried out. 5. Does it increase the performance and learning outcomes of students After that, be sure to conduct an extensive research for materials on the following 1. What does online assessment and blended learning entails 2. Document the growth of blended learning in institutions of higher learning. Be sure to include some examples of how blended learning is used in various institutions. Examples that are specific to your country will be excellent. 3. What are the advantages and limitations of blended learning in our institutions of higher learning Again, be sure to include some examples. 4. How has blended learning affected the performance and learning outcomes of students Blended learning entails the use of both face-to-face as well as Information Communication Technology (ICT) based form of learning. This is the most crucial part as it directly addresses the research question. Here, you must rely heavily on previous research and scholarly works of various authors to come up with means through which blended learning can be used to improve the performance and learning outcomes of students. The following areas also need to be extensively researched on as they will guide your research question 1. Does the country have a strategy or policy paper on face-to-face learning processes If it is there, document it and be sure to document its effectiveness (or failures). 2. Has education stakeholders designed a strategy for incorporating blended learning in the institutions of

A piece of wire on the resistance Essay Example for Free

A piece of wire on the resistance Essay Resistance gives us an idea of how easily electrons flow through a conductor it is the opposition of a material to the flow of electricity through it. It is caused by the internal structure of the material and its atoms, and tends to convert electrical energy in to heat. It is measure in ohms (? ). To measure resistance you must first find the voltage, which is the change in current between to certain points in a circuit. Electricity gives us a way of transferring energy and voltage is a measure of the energy available per coulomb of charge passing. Then you also need the current, which is measured in amps, electrical current as occur when there is a drift of charged particles (electrons or ions) in a particular direction. However there are some effects of the current flowing through a wire, it tends to heat up. If you divide both the voltage and the amps you get the resistance. Resistance = Potential Difference (in V) Current (in A) There are four main factors that effect resistance, these are: As temperature increases, the resistance of the wire increases as well. Some metals are better conductors than others, for example Nichrome has more resistance than copper. The thickness of the wire affects it as well because the thicker the wire the more resistance there is.   And the one I am testing- As the length of the wire increases, as does the resistance because there is further for the energy the travel so it looses energy along the way. In 1826 Georg Ohm discovered that the current flowing through a metal wire is proportional to the potential difference across it. In other words if you double the potential difference the current is also doubled. However this law is only obeyed when all the conditions stay constant. However the shorter the wire the more energy is converted into heat due to more atoms for the electrons to collide with. So the wire temperature increases which was one factor that Ohm did not take into consideration. A battery supplies voltage to the circuit between its terminals. Ideally the voltage should stay constant, however it does not, this is because the battery itself has resistance and acts like a resistor. This is called internal resistance. Prediction: I predict that as I increase the length of the wire the resistance will also increase, because as the current goes through the wire the electrons lose energy because they collide with the atoms of the metal and they lose the energy via heat loss. This causes there to be a decreases in the push force that move the electrons around the circuit. If the wire is longer there will be more collisions and so the electrons will lose even more energy thus losing the push force. If I double the voltage the current will also increase because voltage and current are both proportional. However as stated above in my research I shall not expect this to be exactly correct because not everything in my circuit is not remaining constant the temperature of the wire should increase. Equipment: Energy source (batteries) Ammeter   Volt Meter   Metal wire 5 wires Plan:   I will set up my equipment ensuring that the volt meter is parallel to the metal wire I will then insert the 30 cm long wire and measure the amps and volts Then I will take away 5 cm off the wire and read off the ammeter and volt meter   I will repeat this till I have a 5 cm piece of wire. Diagram: Ammeter Volt Meter Wires Metal wire Batteries Preliminary Results and Changes: Length (cm) Voltage (V) Amps (A) Resistance 30cm cm After doing my preliminary experiment I have decided to do the test every 3 cm so it will go 30cm, 27cm, 24cm, 21cm etc. Results Results table 1 Length (cm) Voltage (V) Amps (A) Resistance 30cm. Results Table 2 Length (cm) Voltage (V) Amps (A) Resistance 30cm Results table 3 Length (cm) Voltage (V) Amps (A) Resistance 30cm Average Result for resistance Length of wire (cm) Average Resistance Conclusion I can now conclude that the resistance increases as the voltage (and current) increases because energy is lost as the electrons go through the wire and collide with the atoms. Having looked at my results and graph I can also conclude that the resistance is directly proportional to the length of wire because my graph is fairly straight. Despite the fact that hardly any off my points are exactly on the line, they follow the line of best fit and are very close to it. This shows that the resistance increases as the length of the wire increases due to more atoms for the electrons to collide with (see prediction and research for further details). Gradient y1 y2 Two points: This shows that my line of best fit goes up very gradually. The graph that I have drawn is very misleading because it looks as though the line goes up steeply; this is because my scale is very big. If I half the scale my line would appear to go up at half the steepness. Resistance per centimeter   Evaluation My results in my opinion are fairly reliable we have the odd result as with most experiments, however on the whole our results and graph show that the current is directly proportional to the voltage and that was our aim in the beginning. Our graph is reliable despite the fact that only two results actually touch the line (this could be due to back readings off or a fault in our method) because all of our results follow the line and are very close to it. Regardless of getting reliable results except a few anomalous results we could have improved our method by ensuring that we had the set amount of wire in between the clip, for example 30cm, because when you add the clips it takes of about 2 cm so we could all of the experiment with the wire 2cm longer. Also as stated above in my research temperature has to remain a constant, which it was not because the smaller the wire got heat was lost so the resistance would be higher so maybe our lower results are not as reliable as the higher ones. Abigail Male 1st February 2002 Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE Electricity and Magnetism section.

Comparison of UK Policy Failure and Success

Comparison of UK Policy Failure and Success Using UK national policy examples, compare an example of a policy failure and a policy success. What criteria can be used to make this judgement? Which criteria do you feel is most appropriate to your examples? In recent years British governments have drawn up and put into practice various policies to help protect the environment by preventing, reducing, or cleaning up pollution, and by adopting measures that are intended to enhance sustainable economic development and growth. The following will discuss whether any of the environmental protection policies have failed, or which policies have succeeded. Or more specifically one policy that has been deemed to be a failure and one policy that has been deemed a success. The failure or success of any government’s policies can be assessed by various criteria, such as political, economic and environmental factors or objectives. A single policy might be a failure or success in all of its assessed criteria, or a failure in some, whilst being a success in other respects. Government policy makers make policy decisions on various criteria, although generally political objectives or criteria take priority over economic, environmental, or social considerations. Governments are usually more interested in pursuing policies that will prove electorally popular, rather than policies that, although they might be environmentally important, are not electorally popular. Environmental campaigners have to be aware that the B ritish government may not be quick or as decisive as they would like in making policy decisions to achieve their objectives, yet they cannot always be sure that those policies will be a success. Governments use policies to change people’s behaviour through legislation, publicity or persuasion, offering incentives or deterrents via the taxation system. British governments have also had external influences upon the formation of environmental policy, such as environmental groups, business groups, and the European Union (EU). An area of the British government’s environmental policy that can be regarded as a failure has been the efforts to reduce the number of vehicles and the amount of fuel that these vehicles use. There are various reasons why this government policy can be regarded as a failure, some environmental, some economic and some political (Coxall, Robbins Leach, 2003, p 401). The number of motor vehicles in use and the places and frequency of their use can have a great deal of influence upon the environment, yet also has importance in terms of economic growth and keeping people employed (Jones et al, 2004, p.700). Before the Conservative governments from 1979 became interested in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development, they sought to attract foreign car manufacturers to build factories in Britain. The Conservatives believed the strategy of having car factories built would promote economic growth, regenerating areas with high unemployment and high levels of social deprivation, such as Sunderland. That was an extension of traditional economic policy that had encouraged Ford, General Motors, and Peugeot to have factories in Britain (Jones, 1999, p.187). For environmentalist groups persuading the British government to reduce the number of motor vehicles in use would have been a major success. The number of cars built in Britain itself had been declining for years, a decline that was only halted by the cars produced by the new Nissan and Toyota factories. The decline in the number of British cars did not equate to a fall in the number of motor vehicles being used in Britain. It just meant that British consumers were buying imported cars, rather than Vauxhalls, Rovers and Fords (Fisher, Denver Benyon, 2003, p.335). Car sales have continued to increase for various reasons, some that British governments could control, and others that it could not. More cars have been bought because more people can afford to buy them and can afford to pay their operating costs, such as petrol, motor insurance, and road tax. People also buy cars because they need them to get to work, go shopping, or to take their children to school. People choose to buy c ars as they believe that public transport is either inadequate, or that it does not go to the places that they have to go to (Moran, 2005, p.175). The Conservatives did not help the development of effective public transport policies by deregulating bus services and also by the privatisation of the railway network. Arguably, the better the public transport system is then the fewer people will need to buy, or at least use their cars to get to work or wherever they need to go to. (Coxall, Robbins Leach, 2003, p.405). It is unlikely that any British government would ever stop people from owning and using their own cars. Judging by the British government’s policy to reduce car ownership or at least halt its rapid rise on purely environmental criteria, then it has been a failure. However, it has not been a failure under every criterion with the policy leading to some changes that improve the chances of other areas of environmental policy proving to be successful. The number of cars built in Britain has declined due to the collapse of the MG Rover group and the closure of Ford and Peugeot factories (Seldon Kavanagh, 2005, p.192). The inability to reduce the number of motor vehicles in use has had the knock on effect of the government having to construct new roads and maintain existing roads. The construction of new roads obviously causes adverse environmental effects in the areas surrounding the construction. Conversely, traffic congestion is more harmful to the environment than free flowing traffic, as it increases fuel consumption via lower fuel efficiency (Fisher, Denver, Benyon, 2003 p. 334). Under slightly different criteria the policy has not been a complete failure. Government policy towards controlling the growth of car ownership and slowing its environmental impact has helped to put such ecological issues on the political agenda. The British government has used the taxation system to establish the principle that the polluters pay to protect the environment and to clean up the pollution. Originally, the government had levied road tax so those motorists should contribute towards the cost of building and maintaining roads. The Conservatives started to practice of charging different rates of road tax dependant upon the engine size of the car. New Labour has taken that concept further by charging much higher rates for fuel guzzling sports cars and off road vehicles, which cause higher levels of pollution. Another way in which the polluter pays for causing pollution is by paying duty on petrol and other oil based fuels. These duties and higher taxes certainly raise extra r evenue for the government, yet that is of no benefit to the environment if the government does use the extra money to improve public transport or take action to cut pollution (Coxall, Robbins, Leach, 2003 p. 405). It could be strongly argued that were the amount of pollution or environmental damage caused by cars has decreased, it has been the result of action by the motor companies themselves. The motor companies will have taken measures to reduce pollution due to environmental legislation passed by the EU, as well as by the British government, whilst improvements in technology can improve the fuel efficiency of cars and reduce their environmental impact. For instance, motor and oil companies have introduced unleaded fuels and catalytic converters that have done much to reduce air pollution levels (Coxall, Robbins, Leach, 2003 p. 405). A policy area in which the British government has been successful in has been a reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases in general and carbon dioxide in particular (Schott, 2006 p. 205). These gases are generally considered to be the greatest threat to the environment, although such gases are produced through natural activities, human generated emissions are threatening to adversely effect the planet’s environment (Moran, 2005 p. 175). British governments have taken an interest in reducing levels of air pollution for much longer than any other environmental issues. For instance, steps were taken to clean up smoke emissions from factories and domestic coal fires that reduced the incidence of smog during the 1950s, especially in London (Jones et al, 2004 p. 696). British governments’ had a tendency to handle environmental issues on a piecemeal or ad hoc basis, usually as an after thought to deciding on political, social and economic policies (Jones et al, 2004, p.69 7). The clean up of smog was not the only example of such an ad hoc method being effective. During the late 1970s and the early part of the 1980s, the problem of ‘acid rain’ became a prominent environmental issue that mainly affected Scandinavia and Germany. Sulphur dioxide emissions from coal fuelled British power stations were considered to be a major contributory factor to the acid rain problem. The Conservative government agreed to have filters fitted to the power station, which greatly reduced the problem (Jones, 1999 p. 279). It was during the late 1980s that the Conservative government, or at least parts of it, became convinced that tackling the greenhouse effect was starting to become a policy priority. In part that change of opinion was brought about by the publicity of environmental pressure groups, such as Friends of the Earth and growing evidence of global warming from scientific research. The British government therefore, set about limiting then reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases in conjunction with other EU member states, the United States, Japan, and China amongst other countries. To their credit, British governments have played a role in the decisions and the targets set by the Rio Earth Summit and the Kyoto Protocol (Coxall, Robbins, Leach, 2003, p. 406) Britain has done very well in comparison with other countries in reducing carbon dioxide emissions especially. Britain is as good as, if not better, than most of the other EU members and its record are much better than the United State s (Jones et al, 2004 p. 700, Schott, 2006, p. 205). The British government has also decided to reduce the demand for electricity and central heating by increasing the energy efficiency and insulation of all domestic homes, which currently make up a quarter of Britain’s carbon dioxide emissions. Individuals as well as the government and businesses are responsible for protecting the environment (Whitaker’s, 2007 p. 519). Judging the British government’s policies to cut omissions of greenhouse gases on environmental criteria, those policies have been successful. For instance, carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced as a result of switching from coal fired to gas fired electricity generating power stations. To some extent that switch had started before the decision to reduce greenhouse gas emissions was made, and was a consequence of the closure of the vast majority of Britain’s coal mines (Jones, 1999 p. 214). Gas emits less carbon dioxide when it is burnt than coal does. The British government has also made attempts to increase the amount of electricity generated by renewable sources, such as wind turbines and hydro- electric dams. More controversially, the government had approved new generations of nuclear power stations, although in not enough numbers to become the main generators of electricity (Moran, 2005 p. 175). The government has also introduced other measures to cut the emis sion of greenhouse gases, such as promoting the use of lower emission fuels for cars, buses and other motor vehicles, which has compensated for its inability to reduce the numbers of motor vehicles that are being used. There might be more cars, yet they are causing less pollution than older makes of vehicles used to do, due to lower sulphur levels in fuels, greater fuel efficiency and lead free fuels (Jones, 1999 p. 279). The British government itself aims to set a good example by having its own departments develop and implement sustainable development strategies to preserve resources and lower gas emissions. The government has influenced its suppliers to develop greener resources (Coxall, Robbins, Leach, 2003 p. 405). In terms of political criteria, the British government’s policy to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions had been a success. The government’s policy has certainly raised public awareness of environmental issues. Where the British government has been astute in relation to the success of the policy of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to counter global warming is in claiming the political credit for carrying that policy out. Although British governments have become convinced of the need to counter global warming, most of the legislation to reduce pollution is passed by or inspired by the EU, rather than the governments of its member states. British governments might try to influence the environmental policies advocated by the EU, yet those policies are now approved by majority voting in the Council of Ministers (Jones et al, 2004, p.700). However, it could be argued under certain criteria that the success of the British government’s policy to reduce greenhouse gases is more apparent than real. Some environmental groups argue that the government’s strategy is not going to lead to sustainable development over the long-term, or continue to cut greenhouse gas emissions. They contend that the British government has not taken enough measures to find alternative energy sources for when fossil fuels are eventually exhausted and that the measures taken to counter global warming are effectively too little, too late (Coxall, Robbins, Leach, 2003 p. 405). Thus to conclude, the main environmental protection polices of British governments have met with failure and success. One noticeable policy that has failed has been the attempt to maintain or even reduce the number of motor vehicles used in Britain. However, British governments have not been able to achieve that policy at all. Government policy had attempted to persuade people to use public transport instead of their own cars, although the privatisation of the railways and the de-regularisation of bus services have hampered that. The government has increased duty on fuels and altered road tax so that people with vehicles that cause higher levels of pollution have to pay more. These measures have certainly raised extra revenue for the Treasury, yet they seem highly unlikely to reduce car use overall. This failure of policy has not been as harmful as might have been expected, as through a combination of legislation, innovation, and greater fuel efficiency, the environmental damage caus ed by newer cars had been reduced. An area of success for government environmental policy has been the reduction in the level of greenhouse gas emissions achieved since 1990. British governments should be commended for their efforts in that direction although part of that success is down to the legislation, regulations and directives set by the EU. There are however, doubts about the completeness of sustainable development over the long term, especially as the level of energy from renewable sources would not be efficient to replace fossil fuels once those have been exhausted. Bibliography Coxall B, Robins L Leach R (2003) Contemporary British Politics 4th edition, Palgrave, Basingstoke Eatwell R Wright A, (2003) Contemporary Political Ideologies 2nd Edition, Continuum, London Fisher J, Denver D, Benyon J, (2003) Central Debates in British Politics, Longman, London Jones B, (1999) issues in British Politics Today, Manchester University Press, Manchester Jones B, Kavanagh D, Moran M, Norton P, (2004) Politics UK, 5th edition, Pearson Longman, London Moran M, (2005) Politic and Governance in the UK, Palgrave, Basingstoke Seldon A Kavanagh D, (2005) The Blair Effect 2001 – 5, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge Schott B, (2006) Schott’s Almanac 2007, Bloomsbury, London Whitaker’s, (2007) Whitaker’s Almanack 2007 – today’s world in one volume, A C Black, London

Capitalist society

Capitalist society What are the defining characteristics of a capitalist society? Which characteristics have held constant, and which been transformed, in the period since the 1970s? In this essay I am going to examine the six main characteristics of capitalism, as outlined by Adam Smith in his book An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations (1776). To aid me in this I shall include references from a broad range of Sociologists in order to elaborate on Smiths points and provide elucidated examples. I then plan to discuss how these characteristics have been transformed since the end of the rapid economic growth post World War Two in the 1970s and the catalysts for these transformations. Prior to this I am going to give an overview of the definition and inception of capitalism. Edmund Burke (1795) defines a capitalist society as one in which even labour is seen as a commodity; the means of production are privately owned by the bourgeoisie whom pay the proletariat a wage in exchange for their labour. Good are produced in accordance with what will make the greatest profit for the bourgeoisie rather than to comply with the needs of the consumer base. The history of capitalism can be traced back as early as the 8th century, in his book Capitalism in Medieval Islam, The Journal of Economic History Sabhi Labib refers to this as, ‘Islamic Capitalism; the stability and relatively high value of the dinar currency led to the establishment of one of the first economies were money was traded in exchange for goods or services. However capitalism didnt become dominant in the ‘West until the 18th century, the catalyst for this was the French revolution of 1789. During this time social stress built due partially to an excessive population, which led to food shortages and disease epidemics. Despite the recent growth of capitalism due to increases in overseas trade and thus the continued growth of the economy the majority of French citizens (especially in rural areas) continued to live at or below the poverty level. Furthermore the stratification system of dividing the population into a hierarchy of social orders at birth caused social unrest. People wanted social change but were unwilling to act, until the fall of Bastille. The storming of the French prison by a group of middle class demonstrators protesting the dismissal of Jacques Necker effectively acted as a catalyst for the revolution; people began to realise that drastic action could bring about social change. Violence dominated the French Revolution; King Louis XVI was dethroned and beheaded and in 1793/1794 thousands more also met this fate, executed because they were thought to be anti-revolution. The French Revolutionary government, who had seized power during the political instability that followed the abolishment of the monarchy, entered war with most of the major powers in Europe, a war that outlasted the revolution. Throughout the bloodshed a number of important changes took place, the most radical of these being the abolition of feudalism and the establishment of a new order. A massive shifting of power from the Roman Catholic Church to the state took place; property was taken from the Church and members of the clergy were forced to sign an oath swearing loyalty to the state. The French revolution was swiftly followed by the Industrial Revolution in Britain, which in turn led to the spread of revolution across Europe. The Industrial Revolution brought an end to feudal society in Britain and a capitalist economic system began to develop through the growth of free labour which liberated industries such as the textile industry. E.A Wrigley wrote that industrialisation was the product of a steady increase in per capita income (1972). Though it should be noted that the economic changes were not the only factors to contribute to the rise in capitalism, the process also involves a wider set of social changes (Kumar 1978) for example Max Weber believed the Protestant ethic was a driving force in the development of capitalism. Now I have given an overview in to the development of capitalist societies I am going to discuss the characteristics associated with them. As previously stated Adam Smith outlined six characteristics of the capitalist society, the foundation of these characteristics was the notion of freedom; Smith believed that capitalism was characterised by individuals having both freedom of enterprise, that is the freedom and right to own property and/or a business and the freedom to dictate their own labour and consumer habits (freedom of economic choice). This freedom is however restricted by human need for sustenance and the means of production, ‘He is not forced to live according to the plan of a planning authority enforcing its unique plan by the police, i.e., the social apparatus of compulsion and coercion. What restricts the individuals freedom is not other peoples violence or threat of violence, but the physiological structure of his body and the inescapable nature-given scarcity of the factors of production. (Mises, L. The Anti-capitalistic Mentality, 1956 CH.1) A further characteristic put forward by Smith was the division of labour; for humans to carry out this production of materials they have to form what are known as, ‘relations of production, and divisions of labour must be made which are determined by the means of production at the time and whom owns them. According to Geoff Pilling (1980) for these relations of production take on the form of classes, as they have done present day, the productive forces must reach a certain level of growth (he further noted that if productive forces continued to increase to a higher level society may return to being class-less). . To illustrate Adam Smiths theory that within in a capitalist society there are high levels of self interest it is useful to look at the work of Marx. Marx used the model of a modern capitalist society as an example of how we can look at how the unequal distribution of the means of production leads to class development and thus class conflict. The bourgeoisie (ruling class) own the means of production, which means that for the proletariat (working class) to gain the materials they need to sustain life they must exchange their labour for a wage. According to Marx, capitalism is driven by an innate greed, especially within the ruling class; capitalists try to find ways to increase workers efficiency and force them to work longer hours. Caporaso and Levine (1992) noted, . ‘As a result profit increases, real wage (subsistence) remains the same the worker works harder, and longer whilst his share of the product declines. . This sets the interests of the two classes in opposition each acting in accordance with their own desires, as the working class are trying to limit the amount of exploitation they suffer. In order to control excesses of both individual and collective self interest capitalist societies require a competitive market, ‘As it is the power of exchanging that gives occasion to the division of labour, so the extent of this division must always be limited by the extent of that power, or, in other words, by the extent of the market. (Smith, A The Wealth of Nations, Book I, Chapter III, 1845) To ensure this competitive market there must be a large population of buyers and sellers, this is to ensure that no one person or group of peoples can dictate the price of a good or service by manipulating the supply or demand. One recent example of a company attempting to manipulate the supply/demand chain is that of Apple. The corporation is one of the main buyers of NAND flash memory chips, they are accused of indicating to their suppliers that they require larger volumes of stock than they actually intend to purchase. In order to meet this demand the suppliers increase production and as a result are left with a surplus amount of stock which they are forced to sell at a reduced rate. Moreover a competitive market must allow everyone free entrance and exit from the marketplace and must not restrict knowledge; both buyers and sellers must be aware of the markets that exist and the range of prices. The final characteristic of a capitalist society given by Adam Smith is that of limited government or laissez-faire, however it is a theory that only works if the aforementioned five characteristics are fulfilling their role. Smith believed that the government should not intervene in the marketplace as that would ruin its chances of operating efficiently and to its full potential. He saw it as the governments role to police the marketplace by creating and enforcing laws to ensure fair practice as well as helping to settle disputes. Now I have provided insight in to the characteristics of a capitalist society I am going to discuss how economic events, including two global recessions, over the past forty years have affected the characteristics and policies of the capitalist system. World War Two was the catalyst for the beginning of mass production of goods, this was known as Fordism. The process was named after Henry Ford, whom helped develop the first car that was economically viable for the working class through the use of assembly lines. Not only did this method of mass production lower the price of the end product, it also enabled Ford to hire unskilled workers which helped reduce unemployment at the time. Wages in his factory were high, at five dollars a day which enabled his employees to become consumers through this Ford managed to boost the economy. The practice of Fordism helped overcome the economic depression that occurred during the 1930s as it decreased the numbers of unemployed and increased the efficiency of workers meaning that profits rose. However the Fordist work structure was abandoned in the 1970s when economic crisis put an end to the post-war boom. The causes of this economic downturn were the oil crisis of 1973, the 1973-74 stock marke t crash, a period of slow economic growth (stagnation) and inflation. Gamble and Walton (1976) used statistics to show that it was no longer realistic for ‘Western societies to practice Fordism; they found that by 1975 3.5% of the UK was unemployed (which went against the Fordist ideal of full employment) and that inflation had increased by 27%. The aforementioned factors combined led to a massive decrease in consumerism. This economic crisis caused dramatic changes within the capitalist system and the development of a new system of economic production post-1970 that is often called Post-Fordism. It should however be noted that although the economic downturn was the main driving force for the introduction of Post-Fordism, globalisation and advances in technology also aided the transformation. Flexible production defines Post-Fordism; producers began to look more closely at the individual needs of their consumer base and produce small amounts of specialised goods rather than mass producing standardised products. One example of this is that of ‘Third Italy, this was the name given to regions of Italy such as Tuscany and Veneto that were encouraged by the Italian government to produce small quantities of high quality products. The goods were produced in small workshops with a workforce of fewer than fifty people and workshops from different regions often pooled their resources in order to purchase machinery. Despite the fact that these unique products were highly desirable to consumers and thus enabled these small companies to charge more advances in technology during the 1990s led to many corporations once again succumbing to mass production. Writing of Benetton, whom started as a small family business in Veneto (Third Italy) before becoming a large corporation, Castells stated, ‘New technologies allow for the transformation of assembly lines characteristic of the large corporation into easy-to-program production units that can be sensitive to variations in the market (product flexibility) and in the changes of technological inputs (process flexibility). (2000: 167) This product and process flexibility has enabled Benetton to maintain their individuality and the exclusive feel of their products regardless of their current status as a global fashion brand with over 6,000 retail outlets. Another such change is the deregulation of markets. Reich (2007) wrote that post Second World War capitalist society was dominated by ogliopolies whom controlled the industry; they were aided by government regulation that allowed them to keep out competition. Changes in the seventies however reduced the power of these large conglomerates as the government simplified laws regarding the market place, this led to a massive increase in competition as it became easier to start up businesses. Competition was further increased by the globalisation of the capitalist economy as corporations began increasing their consumer base by seeking larger international markets. The deregulation of markets is a product of the theory of Neoliberalism, which aims to increase the efficiency of governments and improve economies by transferring some economic control from the public sector to the private sector (Cohen 2007). This policy complies with Smiths theory of laissez-faire as it reduces government intervention. Margret Thatcher, whom served as prime minister of the UK for eleven years was an advocate of this policy; between 1979 and 1990 she oversaw the privatisation most of the United Kingdoms utilities including British Telecom, British Railways and bus services throughout London. And although the current government has yet to privatise any public services there does not appear to be any intention of reversing the work done by Thatcher in reforming the economy. There is no doubt that the capitalist system has undergone many transformations over the last few decades; the changes to economic policy caused by the current global recession serve to reinforce this. However the foundation of capitalism and the core values of the system remain intact; the essence of capitalism is still profit. The proletariat are still exploited by the bourgeoisie and the rich-poor divide increases each passing year (particularly in less economically developed countries for example in 2007 the amount of billionaires in India almost doubled). Adam Smiths vision of a competitive market that could not be dictated by any one corporation now seems too idealistic; the ‘free market is controlled by those who own large conglomerates, their wealth ensuring that nothing stands in their way. References Books Burke, E. Thoughts and Details on Scarcity, Edition 3, 1800, Oxford University: F. and C. Rivington and J. Hatchard. Caporaso, J. A and Levine, D.P Theories of Political Economy; 1992, Cambridge University Press Castells, M. The Rise of the Network Society, The Information Age: Economy, Society and Culture Vol. I; 2000, Cambridge, MA; Oxford, UK: Blackwell Cohen, Joseph Nathan The Impact of Neoliberalism, Political Institutions and Financial Autonomy on Economic Development, 1980-2003; 2007, Dissertation, Department of Sociology, Princeton University. Defended June 2007 Gamble, A and Walton, P. Capitalism in Crisis; 1976, Macmillan Kumar, K. Prophecy and Progress The Sociology of Industrial and Post-Industrial Society; 1978, Viking Labib, S. Capitalism in Medieval Islam, The Journal of Economic History; 1969 pp. 79-96 Mises, L. The Anti-capitalistic Mentality; 1956, Indianapolis: Liberty Fund, 2006. Pilling, G. Marxs Capital, Philosophy and Political Economy; 1980, Routledge Keagan Paul Reich, R B. Supercapitalism. The Transformation of Business, Democracy, and Everyday Life; 2007 Knopf; illustrated edition Smith, A. An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations, 1845, Nelson Wrigley, E.A The Process of Modernization and the Industrial Revolution in England, Journal of Interdisciplinary History, Vol. 3, No. 2, Economics, Society, and History 1972, pp. 225-259 1972, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the editors of The Journal of Interdisciplinary History. Websites http://www.marxists.org/archive/pilling/works/capital/index.htm http://oll.libertyfund.org/?option=com_staticxtstaticfile=show.php%3Ftitle=1889chapter=109993layout=htmlItemid=27 http://arstechnica.com/apple/news/2009/11/apple-using-dodgy-tactics-to-get-better-nand-flash-prices.ars

A Woman Indefinitely Plagued: The Truth Behind The Yellow Wallpaper

A Woman Indefinitely Plagued: The Truth Behind The Yellow Wallpaper In The Yellow Wallpaper, a young woman and her husband rent out a country house so the woman can get over her â€Å"temporary nervous depression.† She ends up staying in a large upstairs room, once used as a â€Å"playroom and gymnasium, [†¦] for the windows are barred for little children, and there are rings and things in the walls.† A â€Å"smoldering unclean yellow† wallpaper, â€Å"strangely faded by the slow-turning sunlight,† lines the walls, and â€Å"the pattern lolls like a broken neck and two bulbous eyes [that] stare at you upside down.† The husband, a doctor, uses S. Weir Michell's â€Å"rest cure† to treat her of her sickness, and he directs her to live isolated in this strange room. The nameless woman tells the reader through diary entries that she feels a connection to the yellow wallpaper and fancies that an imprisoned woman shakes the pattern. The narrator’s insanity is finally apparent when she writes, â€Å"The re are so many of those creeping women, and they creep so fast. I wonder if they all come out of that wall-paper as I did?† When the story first came out in 1892, the critics saw The Yellow Wallpaper as a description of female insanity instead of a story that reveals society’s values. A Boston physician wrote in The Transcript after reading the story that â€Å"such a story ought not to be written [. . .] it was enough to drive anyone mad to read it,† stating that any woman who would go against the grain of society might as well claim insanity. In the time period in which Gilman lived, â€Å"the ideal woman was not only assigned a social role that locked her into her home, but she was also expected to like it, to be cheerful and gay, smiling and good humored.† By expressing her need for independence, Gilman set herself apart from society. Through her creation of The Yellow Wallpaper, Charlotte Perkins Gilman wrote a personal testament of the emotional and psychological anguish of rejection from society as a free-thinking woman in the late nineteenth century. The life of Gilman revolved around troubled and loveless relationships that sparked the gothic tale of her descent into madness. Relating to Gilman’s situation and appreciating The Yellow Wallpaper for how it exemplifies the women’s lives of her time proves difficult today. Before the reform of women’s rights, society summed the roles of the woman in a sim... ...ions far surpassed her time. The honesty of emotion in The Yellow Wallpaper sends a chill through any backbone, whether literal or metaphorical, and reveals how a simple testament can create a revolution of any type. From: . See 1. See 1. Lawell, Jeannine. â€Å"The Yellow Wallpaper: The Rest Cure as a Catalyst to Insanity.† From . See 1. Gilman, Charlotte Perkins. â€Å"Why I Wrote 'The Yellow Wallpaper'?† The Forerunner. To Herland and Beyond: The Life and Work of Charlotte Perkins Gilman. New York: Penguin, 1990. Lane, Ann J. â€Å"The Fictional World of Charlotte Perkins Gilman.† The Charlotte Perkins Gilman Reader. New York: Pantheon Books, 1980. â€Å"The Cult of True Womanhood.† Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia Deluxe. Microsoft Inc, 2004. â€Å"Charlotte Perkins Gilman.† Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia Deluxe. Microsoft Inc, 2004. See 7. See 7. Ceplair, Larry. â€Å"The Early Years.† Charlotte Perkins Gilman: A Non-fiction Reader. New York: Columbia, 1991. â€Å"Depression (Psychology).† Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia Deluxe. Microsoft Inc, 2004. â€Å"Hysteria (Study and Treatment).† Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia Deluxe. Microsoft Inc, 2004. See 13. See 7. See 7. See 7. See 7. See 7. See 6. See 6. See 6. See 8.

Analysis Of Scared To Death Of Dying, Article By Herbert Hendin :: essays research papers

Analysis of "Scared to Death of Dying", Article by Herbert Hendin The background for this work is that the existing conflict over legalizing assisted suicides and euthanasia could bring our values down and society apart. The problem is not legalizing or opposing to it, the real problem is to find a way to care for the terminally ill. We have the responsibility to help the terminally ill die in a decent way not killing them. If we don't have a policy or rule against this we are permitting doctors, like Jack Kevorkian, to become famous for killing people. The claim for this work is that assisted suicides and euthanasia should be illegal. The Oregon Law would allow people to die quicker and without dignity. We can see that this is true in the story of the 30 year-old man that has leukemia. He had a 25 percent chance of survival if he was medically treated; if not he was given a few months to live. When told this, the man wanted to suicide. At first he was scared but after talking with the doctor he decided to take medical treatment and be closer to his family in his final days. If this had happened under the Oregon Law, he would have asked a doctor to assist him in suicide and the doctor would have assisted him without any problem since he had no mental illness. Doctors can cause or hastened death without the patient's request. This can be seen in the Netherlands were a 30 year-old man who was H.I.V.-positive, but had no symptoms and may not develop them for years, was helped to die. Probably the doctors didn't explain that even if he had a terminal disease he could enjoy the rest of his life with his family and friend that were about to lose him. Doctors aren't trained to do this in medical school and the public doesn't know better. This is because doctors aren' t trained properly in the relief of pain and discomfort in terminally ill patients. And time should be devoted in medical schools to explain to the future doctors that there are going to be some patients that they are not going to be able to save but must address their needs. Also the public hasn't been properly educated about the choices they have at the end of their life. The purpose of this work is to create a national commission that would study the care of the terminally ill giving treatment to the dying patients. Both people who support and oppose euthanasia will be able to participate having

My Philosophy Essay -- Teaching Education Essays

My Philosophy A teacher plays a very important role in a child’s life, and that is the main reason I want to be a teacher. I want to be able to inspire, empower and help children to discover their unique learning ability, special interests and qualities. As a teacher I will be able to give students the gift of an education, which will help them advance as adults. I feel that there are many ways to go about teaching and managing a positive learning environment. I want to have a classroom in which students feel personally altered by their experience in my classroom. Progressivism is one major philosophical approach that I plan to use in my classroom, along with an assertive discipline approach. In my classroom I want students to accomplish new material, learn to overcome the subjects they struggle with and develop confidence in what they do. I hope to help students acquire more of themselves in their education and strengthen their qualities. I not only want them to succeed in subjects but also grow as individuals. I plan to use the progressivism approach in my classroom because I believe that hands on education in a very effective way of learning. It helps students to get a first hand experience to see and feel what it is they are learning. I also think that working with groups in their classroom is very beneficial to students. By interacting with their peers they will learn how to share their ideas, accept others points of view and learn how to develop relationships , which is a very important part of life that will help them to succeed in their careers. I hope that my students leave my class with lots of new information , positive attitudes about learning, co nfidence and an open mind. ... ...gh teaching and getting a better perceptive on children will make my life a fulfilled one because I will have been blessed by God in being part of a child’s life in a positive way. I want to continue to learn how to be an effective teacher and become an encouraging figure for a child’s life. Teaching is more than instructing or giving information to students. It is about empowering students, inspiring them to grow intellectually, giving them courage to be creative, expanding their curiosity and providing opportunities. As a teacher I will always be learning just as my students. I will listen to them and grow from experiences with them. Learning in a multifaceted process that is different with every individual. As a teacher I want to be able to attend to all my students ways of learning, therefore I will continue myself to learn and understand students.

Last Sacrifice Chapter Thirty-six

I'D OFTEN DREAMED ABOUT waking up with Dimitri, waking up in a way that was †¦ ordinary. Sweet. Not because we were hastily trying to catch sleep before fighting our next foe. Not because we were recovering from sex we had to hide, sex laden with baggage and myriad complications. I just wanted to wake up together, in his arms, and have it be a good morning. Today was that day. â€Å"How long have you been awake?' I asked drowsily. My head was on his chest, and I was wrapped against him as best as I could manage. My wounds were healing rapidly but still had to be babied. We'd found a few creative workarounds last night. Sunlight now spilled in through the windows, filling my bedroom with gold. He was watching me in that quiet, solemn way of his, with those dark eyes that were so easy to get lost in. â€Å"A little while,' he admitted, lifting his gaze to the sunlight-filled window. â€Å"I think I'm still on a human schedule. Either that, or my body just wants to be up when the sun is. Seeing it is still amazing to me.' I stifled a yawn. â€Å"You should have gotten up.' â€Å"I didn't want to disturb you.' I ran my fingers over his chest, sighing in contentment. â€Å"This is perfection,' I said. â€Å"Is every day going to be like this?' Dimitri rested his hand on my cheek and then moved down, tipping my chin up. â€Å"Not every day but most days.' Our lips met, and the warmth and light in the room paled compared to what burned inside me. â€Å"I was wrong,' I murmured when we finally broke the long, languid kiss. â€Å"This is perfection.' He smiled, something he was doing an awful lot of lately. I loved it. Things would probably change once we were back out in the world. Even if we were together now, Dimitri's guardian side would always be there, ready and watchful. But not right now. Not in this moment. â€Å"What's the matter?' he asked me. With a start, I realized I'd begun to frown. I tried to relax my face. Unbidden, Adrian's words had come back to me, that the next time I was in bed with Dimitri, I should think about others who weren't so lucky. â€Å"Do you think I ruin lives?' I asked. â€Å"What? Of course not.' The smile changed to shock. â€Å"Where would you get that idea?' I shrugged. â€Å"There are just a lot of people whose lives are still kind of a mess. My friends, I mean.' â€Å"True,' he said. â€Å"And let me guess. You want to fix everyone's problems.' I didn't answer. Dimitri kissed me again. â€Å"Roza,' he said, â€Å"it's normal to want to help the people you love. But you can't fix everything.' â€Å"It's what I do,' I countered, feeling a little petulant. â€Å"I protect people.' â€Å"I know, and that's one of the reasons I love you. But for now, you only have to worry about protecting one person: Lissa.' I stretched out against him, noticing my injuries really were constantly improving. My body would be able to do all sorts of things soon. â€Å"I suppose that means we can't stay in bed all day?' I asked hopefully. â€Å"Afraid not,' he said, lightly running his fingertips along the curve of my hip. He never seemed to get tired of studying my body. â€Å"They come first.' I brought my mouth back toward his. â€Å"But not for a little while.' â€Å"No,' he agreed. His hand slid up to the back of my neck, tangling in my hair as he drew me closer. â€Å"Not for a little while.' I had never attended a royal coronation before, and honestly, I hoped I never would again. I only wanted there to be this one queen ruling in my lifetime. Eerily, the coronation was kind of a reverse of Tatiana's funeral. What was the old saying? The queen is dead. Long live the queen. Custom dictated the monarch-to-be spend the first part of the coronation day at the church, presumably to pray for guidance, strength, and all that spiritual stuff. I wasn't sure what custom did in the case of atheist monarchs. Probably they faked it. With Lissa, who was fairly devout, I knew that wasn't a problem and that she was probably legitimately praying she'd do a good job as queen. After the vigil, Lissa and a huge procession walked back across Court to the palace building, where the crowning took place. Representatives from all the royal families joined her, along with musicians who were playing much more cheerful tunes than they had for Tatiana's procession. Lissa's guardians–she had a fleet now–walked with her. I was among them, wearing my finest black and white, including the red collar marking me as a royal guardian. Here, at least, was a notable difference from the funeral. Tatiana had been dead; her guardians were for show. Lissa was very much alive, and even if she'd won the Council's vote, she still had enemies. My colleagues and I were on high alert. Not that you'd think we needed to be, not with the way the onlookers cheered. All those who had camped out during the trials and election had stayed for this fanfare, and more had shown up still. I wasn't sure when there'd ever been this many Moroi in one place. After the long and winding walk, Lissa made it to the palace building and then waited in a small antechamber adjacent to what served as the Moroi throne room. The throne room was almost never used for modern business, but every once in a while–like a new queen being sworn in–the Moroi liked to pull out ancient traditions. The room was small and couldn't hold all the witnesses from outside. It couldn't even hold the entire procession. But, the Council and highest-ranking royal members were there, along with some select invitees of Lissa's. I stood off to the side, watching the glamour unfold. Lissa hadn't made her grand entrance yet, so there was a low hum of conversation. The room was all green and gold, having been given a thorough and fast remodel in the last few days, since custom dictated the ruling family's colors dominate the throne room. The throne itself sat high against the far wall, accessible by steps. Carved of wood I could no longer identify, I knew the throne had been carried around the world by Moroi monarchs for centuries. People were lining up in carefully assigned positions, preparing for when Lissa would enter last. I was studying one of the new chandeliers, admiring how realistic the â€Å"candles' in it looked. I knew they were electric, but the craftsmen had done amazing work. Technology masked in old-world glory, just as the Moroi liked. A small nudge drew my attention away. â€Å"Well, well, well,' I said. â€Å"If it isn't the people responsible for unleashing Rose Hathaway on the world. You've got a lot to answer for.' My parents stood before me in their typical and wildly contrasting clothing. My mom wore the same guardian outfit I did, a white shirt with black slacks and jacket. Abe was †¦ well, Abe. He had on a black pinstripe suite, with a black dress shirt underneath. Splashed against the darkness was a bright, lemon-yellow paisley tie. A matching handkerchief peeped out one of the jacket's pockets. Along with his gold earrings and chains, he also wore a black fedora, which was a new addition to his outlandish wardrobe. I guess he wanted to go all out for an event like this, and at least it wasn't a pirate hat. â€Å"Don't blame us,' said my mother. â€Å"We didn't blow up half of Court, steal a dozen cars, call out a murderer in the middle of a crowd, or get our teenage friend crowned queen.' â€Å"Actually,' said Abe, â€Å"I did blow up half of Court.' My mom ignored him, her expression softening as she studied me with her guardian eyes. â€Å"Seriously †¦ how are you feeling?' I'd seen them only briefly in the days since waking up, just enough for us all to check in on each other. â€Å"You're doing an awful lot of standing today. And I've already told Hans not to put you on active duty for a while.' It was one of the most motherly things I'd ever heard her say. â€Å"I †¦ I'm fine. A lot better. I could go on active duty right now.' â€Å"You will do no such thing,' she said, in exactly the tone she'd use giving orders to a troop of guardians. â€Å"Stop coddling her, Janine.' â€Å"I'm not coddling her! I'm looking out for her. You're spoiling her.' I looked back and forth at them in amazement. I didn't know if I was witnessing a fight or foreplay. I wasn't thrilled about either option. â€Å"Okay, okay, just back off you guys. I survived, right? That's what counts.' â€Å"It is,' said Abe. He suddenly seemed very fatherly, which weirded me out even more than my mom's behavior. â€Å"And despite the property damage and string of broken laws left in your wake, I'm proud of you.' I suspected that secretly, he was proud of me because of those things. My cynical interior commentary was brought to a halt when my mom concurred. â€Å"I'm proud too. Your methods were †¦ not ideal, but you did a great thing. Great things, really. Finding both the murderer and Jill.' I noticed her careful wording of â€Å"the murderer.' I think it was still hard for all of us to accept the truth about Tasha. â€Å"A lot will change because of Jill.' All of us looked over at the foot of the throne. Ekaterina stood on one side, ready with the book of royal vows. The other side was where members of the monarch's family stood–but only one lone person was there. Jill. Someone had done a great job of cleaning her up. Her curly hair had been elaborately styled and pinned, and she wore a knee-length sheath dress with a wide portrait style collar, just barely showing off her shoulders. The dress's cut made the most of her lanky figure, and the dark green satin looked great with her features. She was standing straight, chin high, but there was anxiety all over her, made more obvious by her being so conspicuously alone. I glanced back at Abe, who met my eyes expectantly. I had a lot of questions for him, and he was one of the few who might tell me the truth. The decision was: which question to ask? It was like having a genie. I'd only get so many wishes. â€Å"What will happen to Jill?' I asked at last. â€Å"Will she just go back to school? Are they going to train her to be a princess?' Lissa couldn't be both princess and queen, so her old title went to the next-oldest member of her family. Abe didn't answer for several moments. â€Å"Until Lissa can get the law changed–and hopefully, she will–Jill is all that allows her to keep her throne. If something happens to Jill, Lissa will no longer be queen. So. What would you do?' â€Å"I'd keep her safe.' â€Å"Then you have your answer.' â€Å"It's kind of a broad one,' I said. â€Å"†Safe' means a lot of things.' â€Å"Ibrahim,' warned my mother. â€Å"Enough. This isn't the time or place.' Abe held my gaze a bit longer and then broke into an easy smile. â€Å"Of course, of course. This is a family gathering. A celebration. And look: here's our newest member.' Dimitri had joined us and wore black and white like my mother and me. He stood beside me, conspicuously not touching. â€Å"Mr. Mazur,' he said formally, nodding a greeting to both of them. â€Å"Guardian Hathaway.' Dimitri was seven years older than me, but right then, facing my parents, he looked like he was sixteen and about to pick me up for a date. â€Å"Ah, Belikov,' said Abe, shaking Dimitri's hand. â€Å"I'd been hoping we'd run into each other. I'd really like to get to know you better. Maybe we can set aside some time to talk, learn more about life, love, et cetera. Do you like to hunt? You seem like a hunting man. That's what we should do sometime. I know a great spot in the woods. Far, far away. We could make a day of it. I've certainly got a lot of questions I'd like to ask you. A lot of things I'd like to tell you too.' I shot a panicked look at my mother, silently begging her to stop this. Abe had spent a good deal of time talking to Adrian when we dated, explaining in vivid and gruesome detail exactly how Abe expected his daughter to be treated. I did not want Abe taking Dimitri off alone into the wilderness, especially if firearms were involved. â€Å"Actually,' said my mom casually. â€Å"I'd like to come along. I also have a number of questions–especially about when you two were back at St. Vladimir's.' â€Å"Don't you guys have somewhere to be?' I asked hastily. â€Å"We're about to start.' That, at least, was true. Nearly everyone was in formation, and the crowd was quieting. â€Å"Of course,' said Abe. To my astonishment, he brushed a kiss over my forehead before stepping away. â€Å"I'm glad you're back.' Then, with a wink, he said to Dimitri: â€Å"Looking forward to our chat.' â€Å"Run,' I said when they were gone. â€Å"If you slip out now, maybe they won't notice. Go back to Siberia.' â€Å"Actually,' said Dimitri, â€Å"I'm pretty sure Abe would notice. Don't worry, Roza. I'm not afraid. I'll take whatever heat they give me over being with you. It's worth it.' â€Å"You really are the bravest man I know,' I told him. He smiled, his eyes falling on a small commotion at the room's entrance. â€Å"Looks like she's ready,' he murmured. â€Å"I hope I am,' I whispered back. In true grandiose fashion, a herald brought the room to attention. Perfect silence fell. You couldn't even hear breathing. The herald stepped back from the door. â€Å"Princess Vasilisa Sabina Rhea Dragomir.' Lissa entered, and even though I'd seen her less than half an hour ago, I still caught my breath. She was wearing a formal gown but had once again dodged sleeves. No doubt the dress-maker had had a fit. The dress was floor-length, with a skirt of silk and chiffon layers that moved and fluttered around Lissa as she strode forward. The fabric was the same jade as her eyes, as was the dress's top, with a halter collar covered in emeralds that gave the illusion of a necklace. Matching emeralds covered the dress's belt, and bracelets completed the display. Her hair was worn long, brushed out to gleaming, platinum perfection, an aura unto itself. Christian walked beside her, a sharp contrast with his black hair and dark suit. Customs were being modified significantly today since a family member normally would have escorted Lissa, but †¦ well, she was kind of running out. Even I had to admit he looked amazing, and his pride and love for her shone on his face–no matter what troubled feelings stirred within him over Tasha. Lord Ozera, I remembered. I had a feeling that title would become more and more important now. He led Lissa to the base of the throne and then joined the Ozera delegation in the crowd. Ekaterina made a small gesture to a large satin pillow on the floor in front of the steps. â€Å"Kneel.' There was the briefest hesitation on Lissa's part, one I think only I noticed. Even without the bond, I was so attuned to her mood and tiniest actions that I could pick up on these things. Her eyes had gone to Jill. Lissa's expression didn't change, and it was so strange not to know her feelings. I could make some educated guesses. Uncertainty. Confusion. Again–the pause was only a moment long. Lissa knelt, artfully spreading her skirts around her as she did. Ekaterina had always seemed so frail and wizened in that testing room, but as she stood there with the ancient Moroi coronation book, I could sense a power still within the former queen. The book was in Romanian, but Ekaterina translated it effortlessly as she read aloud, beginning with a speech about what was expected of a monarch and then going to the vows Lissa had to swear to. â€Å"Will you serve?' â€Å"Will you protect your people?' â€Å"Will you be just?' There were twelve in all, and Lissa had to answer â€Å"I will' three times to each one: in English, in Russian, and in Romanian. Not having the bond to confirm her feelings was still so strange, but I could see on her face that she meant every word she said. When that part finished, Ekaterina cued Jill forward. Since I'd last noticed the girl, someone had given her the crown to hold. It had been custom-made for Lissa, a masterpiece of white and yellow gold intertwined with emeralds and diamonds. It complemented her outfit beautifully, and, I noticed with a start, Jill did too. Another tradition was that the monarch was crowned by a family member, and this was what Jill had been saved for. I could see her hands tremble as she laid the bejeweled wonder on her sister's head, and their gazes met briefly. A flash of troubled emotions swirled in Lissa's eyes once more, gone quickly as Jill stepped back and the weight of the ceremony took precedence. Ekaterina held out her hand to Lissa. â€Å"Rise,' she said. â€Å"You will never kneel to anyone again.' Holding Lissa's hand, Ekaterina turned so that they both faced the rest of us in the room. With a voice startling for her small body, Ekaterina declared, â€Å"Queen Vasilisa Sabina Rhea Dragomir, first of her name.' Everyone in the room–except Ekaterina–dropped to their knees, heads bowed. Only a few seconds passed before Lissa said, â€Å"Rise.' I'd been told this was at the monarch's discretion. Some new kings and queens enjoyed making others kneel for a long time. Paperwork followed, which we all watched dutifully as well. Basically, it was Lissa signing to say she'd been made queen while Ekaterina and a couple witnesses signed that they'd seen Lissa made queen. Three copies were on the ornate paper Moroi royalty so loved. One was plain white letterhead, which would go to the Alchemists. When the signing was done, Lissa took her place on the throne, and seeing her ascend those stairs was breathtaking, an image that would stay with me for the rest of my life. The room broke out into cheers and clapping as she settled into the ornate chair. Even the guardians, who normally stayed so deadly serious, joined in the applause and celebration. Lissa smiled at everyone, hiding whatever anxiety she felt. She scanned the room, and her grin broadened when she saw Christian. She then sought me out. Her smile for him had been affectionate; mine was a bit humorous. I smiled back, wondering what she would say to me if she could. â€Å"What's so funny?' asked Dimitri, looking down at me with amusement. â€Å"I'm just thinking about what Lissa would say if we still had the bond.' In a very bad breach of guardian protocol, he caught a hold of my hand and pulled me toward him. â€Å"And?' he asked, wrapping me in an embrace. â€Å"I think she'd ask, â€Å"What have we gotten ourselves into?† â€Å"What's the answer?' His warmth was all around me, as was his love, and again, I felt that completeness. I had that missing piece of my world back. The soul that complemented mine. My match. My equal. Not only that, I had my life back– my own life. I would protect Lissa, I would serve, but I was finally my own person. â€Å"I don't know,' I said, leaning against his chest. â€Å"But I think it's going to be good.' First and foremost, thank you to all of the loyal and enthusiastic readers around the world who have accompanied Rose and me throughout the series. I couldn't have made this journey without you and hope you'll continue to enjoy the many Moroi and dhampir adventures to come. Thank you also to all of the friends and family who have supported me–especially my husband, who continually amazes me with his patience, love, and ability to live with the ups and downs of a â€Å"creative type.' A special shout-out also goes to Jesse McGatha for creating the forest riddle, something I could never have come up with, let alone solve. And as always, I'm grateful to the publishing folks who work behind the scenes to make these books happen: Jim McCarthy–my agent, occasional therapist, and non- stop advocate; Lauren Abramo, who keeps finding more countries I've never heard of to send Rose to; Jessica Rothenberg and Ben Schrank, editors extraordinaire whom I'm pretty sure forego food and sleep to perfect these books; and publicist Casey McIntyre, who organizes my tours and interviews, with great care to arrange them around my hair appointments. A final thanks to all the others who work on this series at Penguin Books, Dystel & Goderich Literary Management, and my international publishers. There are far too many of you to list, but all of you are essential in telling Rose's story. Thank you.