21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century European Fascism Essay

Religious fundamentalism is the belief that social and political life should be organized on the basis of what are seen as essential religious principles that are supported by a belief in the literal truth of scared texts.1 Fascism, on the other hand is a totalitarian ideology that centers itself upon the leader and possesses the ‘anti-factor’ whereby it rejects a whole lot of other ideologies such as liberalism and communism. At first glance, there seems to be not much connection between 21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century European Fascism; however a more detailed comparison between the two ideologies will reveal similarities that caused the former to be viewed by some as the â€Å"new fascism† and differences that made this view irrelevant. In the first half of this paper, I am going to compare and contrast the various similarities and differences between 21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century European Fascism and then show that to deem religious fundamentalism as a new form of fascism is really unjustified. In the remaining half of the paper, I will make an argument for my belief that 21st century religious fundamentalism should indeed be considered as an ideology and also the basis of its mass appeal. Due to the complexities and varieties of 21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century fascism, the similarities and differences listed below can be seen as generalizations and thus proven wrong by certain sects of religious fundamentalism or certain style of fascism. However, this is inevitable as this is the only way to compare the similarities and differences between these two complex ideologies. The first similarity between 21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century European Fascism is the emphasis in both ideologies upon charismatic leadership. Many of the fundamentalists believe in the embodiment of ‘truth’ by their leader who will in turn implement it.2 For instance, in the Catholic faith, the pope is seen as the Vicar of Christ and can do no wrong.3 Furthermore, Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of Islamic Iran was recognized first as Ayatollah (a ‘reflection of Allah’) and then Grand Ayatollah. 4Fascism is based upon the cult of personality built around its leaders and it is effectively crafted to exploit this cult. For instance, Hitler effectively cultivated the Fuhrer cult through Nazi propaganda machine under the expertise of Goebbels and through films such as ‘Triumph of Will’ by Leni Riefenstahl.5 Perhaps fascism’s huge emphasis on charismatic leadership is best embodied by Mussolini’s proclamation, â₠¬Å"Fascism is Mussolinism†¦what would Fascism be, if I had not been?†6 The second similarity between these two ideologies is the intolerance shown by both ideologies upon conflicting elements that goes against their principles. For instance, some sects of religious fundamentalism such as evangelicalism or Islamic fundamentalism exhibits little tolerance for other faiths and in some instances even prosecute and victimize minorities that believes in other faiths in a largely Islamist or Christian country. This intolerance also translates into the belief that religious views can be coercive and religious views ought to have a role in politics thus cementing the power of the religious fundamentalists in their country. This is comparable to the racism and anti-semitism present in European Fascism whereby the proclaimed enemies of the ideologies were shown no mercies and prosecuted and victimized through no faults of their own. The most extreme illustration of this is the holocaust which was brought about systematically by the Nazis. These two similarities certainly contributed to 21st century religious fundamentalism been branded by some as â€Å"the new fascism†. However, the more important contributing factor should be the increasing role that religion is playing in world politics. Judaism has produced its own militant â€Å"nationalist† terrorists; Buddhists show a militant and violent side in their politics in Sri Lanka against Hindu Tamils. 7 A few American evangelists have engaged in murder and violence on the abortion issue.8 Islam-inspired terrorism also received much publicity especially after the 911 attack. Furthermore, religious fundamentalists have tried their best to exert their influence through proper channels of government. For instance, American fundamentalists fielded candidates for elections.9 Thus the increasing influence that religious fundamentalists are trying to exert in politics and the adverse violent happenings that they brought in the 21st century doubtlessly brought echoes of the 20th century European Fascism which brought about not only the 2nd World War but also the holocaust. However, to brand 21st century religious fundamentalism as the ‘new fascism’ is not only incorrect but also unjustified. In the following paragraphs, I will proceed to show the differences between 21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century European Fascism. 21st century religious fundamentalism does not contain elements of racism, anti-semitism or the belief in the possibility of a master race. It also holds no faith in eugenics. Furthermore, it is also an ideology that does not preach upon imperialism, militarism or world domination. All the above elements are defining attributes of 20th century European Fascism. The mere evidence that religious fundamentalism does not believe in all these attributes made the branding of it as a new form of fascism unjustified. Many religious fundamentalists believe that political power should be subordinated to religious power whereby the Bishop, the Rabbi, or the Ayatollah should be able to make the final decision on social issues.10 The best case scenario for religious fundamentalists would be as in the case of Iran where they actually govern however, compromises are made between religious fundamentalists and secular authorities.11 This belief that political power should be subordinate to religious power is of course the direct opposite of fascism whereby churches (religion) should be subordinate to the state. 21st century religious fundamentalism also possess other aspects in their ideology that is absent in 20th century European Fascism. Some of these attributes are otherworldliness and messianic spirit (where fundamentalists are concerned with the sacred and devote energy only in activities consonant with the words of God), against science (rejecting critical interpretations of the Bible and Darwin’s evolutionary theory), belief in the supernatural, moralism and the subordination of women.12 After showing the differences between 21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century European Fascism, I will like to conclude that to brand the former as â€Å"new fascism† is not only unfair but incorrect. Next, this paper shall argue for 21st century religious fundamentalism to be accorded its rightful status as an ideology. Before I start defending my belief that religious fundamentalism is an ideology, I will like to provide the definitions of political theory and political philosophy. This is because of the commonly interchangeable usage of ideology, theory and philosophy and thus a clear distinction between the three terms will be helpful to my argument. Political philosophy is defined as a â€Å"disinterested search for the principles of the good state and the good society.†13 Political theory has been defined as â€Å"disinterested search for knowledge of political and social reality.† 14 Thus many scholars claimed that political philosophy is a normative theory while political theory is an empirical theory.15 Political ideology contains both the normative and empirical propositions.16 Thus, I will now start my argument by looking at the characteristics of an ideology and how religious fundamentalism actually fits these characteristics and rejects any suggestions that religious fundamentalism is only a ‘philosophy’ or a ‘theory’. â€Å"Ideologies arise in conditions of crisis and in sections of society to whom the hitherto prevailing outlook has become unacceptable†17 This accounts for the resurgence of religious fundamentalism in the late 20th to 21st century(similar to how European Fascism evolved) where social problems in western countries such as Britain and America have caused evangelicals to organize pressure groups to petition against abortion laws and other problems such as pornography. This further explains the popularity of political Islam in the Middle East as it is the only other viable solution to the secular ideologies propagated by the West. â€Å"An ideology is more than just ideas; it is also actions based upon those ideas.†18 21st century religious fundamentalism can be seen to fulfill this criterion as many examples show this. One example will be the establishment of Iran as an Islamic state and in its latest issue of Iran daily; Iran reiterated that it will still maintain its fundamentalist ways despite pressures from the United States.19 Another example will be Evangelicals forming pressure groups to translate their ideas into actions. â€Å"Ideology includes both empirical and normative elements-empirical assertions that certain conditions exist, and normative assertions that a certain political order is to be preferred.†20 21st century religious fundamentalism does possess this quality and one instance will be how Islamic fundamentalist view the Israel issue where they see Israel as a western creation due to no fault of their own and sought not to recognize the status quo but to take steps to revise it. Another example will be Islamic fundamentalists’ view of the United States role in the Middle East. â€Å"Ideology tends to be exclusive, absolute, and universal.† 2121st century Religious Fundamentalism contains various different sects, for instance, evangelicalism and Islamic fundamentalism and thus could not lay claim to this criterion. However, there are indeed common attributes within religious fundamentalism such as the inerrancy of the â€Å"Written Word† and the subordination of political power. Furthermore, within the different varieties of religious fundamentalism, one can points out that evangelicalism and Islamic fundamentalism is by itself, exclusive, absolute and universal. Lastly, â€Å"Ideologies seek to elicit a response of commitment and obligation on the part of the adherents.† Again, this criterion is easily satisfied by 21st century religious fundamentalism. This can be seen in the 911 suicide bombing of the twin towers by terrorists inspired by Political Islam. To pursue ‘jihad’, Islamic extremists are willing to give up their lives for a greater good. On a more moderate note, ideologies certainly influence evangelicals who try to fight against social laws that their ideology deem inappropriate. After showing the ability of 21st century religious fundamentalism of fulfilling the various criteria of an ideology, I can safely conclude that 21st century religious fundamentalism is an ideology and not a political philosophy or a political theory. In this last part of the paper, I will provide the basis of its mass appeal. The basis of 21st century religious fundamentalism’s mass appeal must be its political vision of the world and the kind of a new society that it can bring to the world. Faced with social problems such as rising crime rates, teenage pregnancy and abortion rates in the Western countries, evangelical activists draw strength from its ideology and attempt to fight all these social problems through the formation of pressure groups pressuring and cajoling the government to make improvements in all realms of lives, from abolishing abortion to anti-pornography laws to religious education in school. These actions by evangelical activists from their perspective can be seen not only as morally rewarding but also efforts made that adhere to their religious beliefs. Political Islam’s appeal in the Middle East can also be attributed to the erosion of traditional values brought about by modernization.22 Furthermore, complicated by the colonial experience, the failure of secular nationalism, the Israel creation and unhealthy US interferences in the region, political Islam remains a very attractive alternative to western ideas.( the reason been that Islam cover all aspects of lives and offer solutions to just about everything) In conclusion, this paper has shown the similarities and the differences between 21st century religious fundamentalism and 20th century European Fascism and also argued that to call religious fundamentalism â€Å"new fascism† is not only incorrect but unjustified. This paper has also argued for 21st century religious fundamentalism to be considered as an ideology through the demonstration of it fulfilling the various criteria of an ideology. Lastly, this paper has provided the writer’s perception for the basis of 21st century religious fundamentalism mass appeal. Bibliography Andrew Heywood, â€Å"Politics†, second edition, palgrave foundations, 2002 Aristotle A. Kallis, â€Å"The Fascism Reader†, first edition, Routledge, 2003 Graham E. Fuller, â€Å"The Future of Political Islam†, palgrave, 2003 J. Christopher Soper, â€Å"Evangelical Christianity in the United States and Great Britain†, Macmillian, 1994 Reo M. Christenson, â€Å"Ideologies and modern politics†, first edition, Fletcher and Son Ltd, 1972 Roy C. Macridis and Mark Hulliung, â€Å"Contemporary Political Ideologies, Movements and Regimes†,sixth edition, HarperCollins College Publishers, 1996 http://www.iran-daily.com/1384/2526/html/ Iran Daily Newspaper copyright,2005, 20/03/06 1 Andrew Heywood, â€Å"Politics†, second edition, palgrave foundations, 2002, p. 63 2 Roy C. Macridis and Mark Hulliung, â€Å"Contemporary Political Ideologies, Movements and Regimes†,sixth edition, HarperCollins College Publishers, 1996, p.233 3 Hulluing, p. 233 4 Hulluing, p. 234 5 Aristotle A. Kallis, â€Å"The Fascism Reader†, first edition, Routledge, 2003, p.294 6 Reo M. Christenson, â€Å"Ideologies and modern politics†. first edition, Fletcher and Son Ltd, 1972, p. 60 7 Graham E. Fuller, â€Å"The Future of Political Islam†, palgrave, 2003 p. 78 8 Fuller, p. 78 9 Fuller, p. 78 10 Hulluing, p. 233 11 Hulluing, p. 233 12 Hulluing, p. 233 13 Christenson, p. 7 14 Christenson, p. 7 15 Christenson, p. 8 16 Christenson, p. 8 17 Christenson, p. 9 18 J. Christopher Soper, â€Å"Evangelical Christianity in the United States and Great Britain†,Macmillian,1994, p.26 19 http://www.iran-daily.com/1384/2526/html/ Iran Daily Newspaper copyright,2005, 20/03/06 20 Christenson, p. 11 21 Christenson, p. 11 22 Fuller, p. 68

Political philosophy Essay

KNOWLEDGE IS FORMED AND ACQUIRED IN THE COURSE OF OUR LIFE THOUGH COGNITION AND IT IS NOT INBORN AND DEVELOPS FROM OUR OWN IGNORANCE. JOHN LOCKE COMPARED IT WITH TABULA RASA OR SOME SORT OF A BLANK SHEET UPON WHICH NOTHING IS WRITTEN. THESE ARE DATA OR IMAGES OF THE OBJECT WHICH STIMULATED OUR SENSE-ORGANS-SIGHT, HEARING, TOUCH, TASTE AND SMELL ARE, IN A MANNER OF SPEAKING, RAW-MATERIALS WHICH OUR BRAIN FORMS, THROUGH ABSTRACTION, INTO CONCEPTS OR IDEAS, AND WHICH WE EXPRESS IN SIGNS OR LANGUAGE. THERE ARE TWO OBSTACLES TO COGNITION THE BIASES WHICH BECLOUD THE HUMAN MIND AS â€Å"IDOLS† AND THE ERRORS IN REASONING. WHICH ARE THE SO CALLED FALLACIES. REASONING IS A MEANS FOR ACQUIRING KNOWLEDGE BUT IF IT IS FALLACIOUS IT CANNOT YIELD BUT DECEPTION. MOREOVER THERE ARE THREE THEORIES OF KNOWLEDGE NAMELY; EMPIRICISM, RATIONALISM AND INTUITIONISM. IN EMPIRICISM, KNOWLEDGE COMES FROM EXPERIENCE AND EXPERIENCE IS A SENSE OF PERCEPTION WHICH MAY BE UNDERSTOOD AS DIRECT OBSERVATION BY THE SENSES OR INDIRECT BY USING INSTRUMENT OR BY EXPERIMENTATION. EMPIRICISM TEACHES THAT WHAT WE SEE, HEAR, TOUCH, OR SMELL, IS ALL THAT WE CAN KNOW. OUTSTANDING EXPONENTS OF EMPIRICISM WERE JOHN LOCKE, GEORGE BERKELEY. DAVID HUME AND THE SO-CALLED LINGUISTIC PHILOSOPHERS. RATIONALISM MAINTAINS THAT REASON IS THE SOURCE AND TEST OF KNOWLEDGE AND NOT SENSE-PERCEPTION. KNOWLEDGE CONSISTS OF CONCEPTS WHICH GENERALIZE ABOUT THE NATURE OF REALITY SO THAT IT HAS A UNIVERSAL AND PERMANENT CHARACTER. IT IS THE REASON OR THE INTELLECT WHICH â€Å"MANUFACTURES† THE DATA INTO CONCEPTS, JUDGMENTS AND LAWS, AND THAT IS HOW OUR KNOWLEDGE IS FORMED. WHAT WE KNOW IS â€Å"WHAT WE HAVE THOUGHT OUT†, OR WHAT REASON HAS â€Å"ABSTRACTED† FROM THE DATA OF SENSE PERCEPTION. THE KNOWN DEFENDERS ARE PARMENIDES, PLATO OF ANCIENT GREECE, DESCARTES AND HEGEL OF THE. MODERN WORLD. THE THIRD THEORY WHICH IS INTUITIONISM CLAIMS THAT THE SENSES CAN ONLY MIRROR THE APPEARANCE OF THINGS HENCE WHAT WE CALL SENSE-DATA, CANNOT TELL US WHAT THINGS ARE IN THEMSELVES. BUT THROUGH INTUITION, WE CAN HAVE â€Å"A FEEL† OF WHAT LIES BEYOND THE PHENOMENA CAPTURED BY OUR SENSES AND TRANSFORMED BY REASON INTO CONCEPTUAL SYMBOLS. INTUITION â€Å"INTUERE†. (TO LOOK INTO) IS A DIRECT APPREHENSION OF KNOWLEDGE WHICH IS NOT THE RESULT OF CONSCIOUS REASONING OR IMMEDIATE PERCEPTION. ADD THE FACTS THAT THERE ARE TWO METHODS OF INTELLECTUAL INQUIRY, FIRST IS THE  INTUITION THAT GRASPS THE ESSENTIAL NATURE OF REALITY AND â€Å"TIME† AND THE SECOND IS ANALYSIS WHICH IS THE STABILITY AND PREDICTABILITY, BUT OFFERS ONLY â€Å"A PHOTOGRAPH† OR â€Å"A SNAPSHOT† OF WHAT IS ESSENTIALLY A DYNAMIC, ACTIVE WORLD THE ONLY WAY TO BRIDGE THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE â€Å"OBJECT KNOWN† AND â€Å"THE KNOWER†, WE MUST USE â€Å"INTELLECTUAL SYMPATHY† THAT EXPERIENCES BEING AS A WHOLE, AS â€Å"A DYNAMIC CONTINUUM†. LASTLY, THERE ARE DIFFERENT NOTIONS OF TRUTH NAMELY THE CORRESPONDENCE THEORY, COHERENCE THEORY, PRAGMATIC THEORY AND THE MARXIST THEORY. EDUCATION: THE WORD EDUCATION COMES FROM THE LATIN VERB â€Å"EDUCERE† (TO LEAD) OR FROM  Ã¢â‚¬Å"EDUCARE† (DRAW OUT). EDUCATION IS THE ART OF LEADING OR GUIDING A PERSON TO SOCIAL CULTURE SO THAT BY EXPOSING HIM TO ITS COMPLEXITIES AND HE MAY ACTUALIZE HIS Introduction to Philosophy POTENTIALITIES. EVERY PERSON, REGARDLESS OF RACE, GENDER OR CLASS HAS A DORMANT POWER WHICH IF DRAWN OUT OR DEVELOPED COULD EQUIP THE INDIVIDUAL TO FILL A VARIETY OF ROLES IN SOCIETY. EDUCATION AND TRAINING IS OF DIFFERENT MEANING. EDUCATION HAS TO DO WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE WHOLE PERSONALITY WHILE TRAINING DEALS WITH THE GAINING AND ACHIEVING OF SKILLS. THERE ARE AIMS OF EDUCATION; FIRST IS TO PREPARE  THE YOUNG FOR â€Å"CITIZENSHIP†-THE SUBTLE MEANS OF PROVIDING THE STATE IN ALONG RUN WITH FUTURE LEADERS AND FOLLOWERS WHO WOULD PUT INTEREST OF THE STATE AND NATION ABOVE SELF. SECOND AIM IS TO DEVELOP THE INDIVIDUAL â€Å"AS A MAN†- ENABLE THE INDIVIDUAL TO REALIZE HIS POTENTIAL POWERS AS A HUMAN BEING SO HE COULD BE FREE IN OUTLINING HIS OWN DESTINY. THIRD, IT SHOULD AIM TO PRESERVE THE PREVAILING SOCIAL SYSTEM BY WAY OF TRANSMITTING THE IDEAS, THE BELIEFS, THE VALUES AND THE PRACTICES OF SOCIETY. FOURTH, IT AIMS TO CONTRIBUTE TO SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION AND IT MUST FOSTER  A NEW CONSCIOUSNESS THAT IS SUPPORTIVE OF THE PEOPLES DREAM AND STRUGGLE FOR A MORE JUST, HUMAINE AND DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY. FIFTH, IT SHOULD PREPARE US FOR ETERNAL LIFE IN A PARADISE TO COME AND LASTLY IT SHOULD AIM TO COMPREHENSIVELY PREPARE US TO BE A â€Å"WORKER† OR TO BE â€Å"A CITIZEN AND TO BE â€Å"A PERSON.   EDUCATION HAS AN IDEOLOGICAL CHARACTER. TO LITTLE, INDEED, DOES THE SCHOOL GOING TO PUBLIC SUSPECT THAT EDUCATION AS A SOCIAL INSTITUTION CAN BE MANIPULATED BY VESTED GROUPS FOR THEIR OWN POLITICAL INTERESTS. TO SOME PEOPLE WHOSE ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL FORTUNES ARE ENTRENCHED THAT EDUCATION IS USED TO  PROMOTE SOCIAL CONFORMITY AND AGREEMENT. TO OTHERS WHO HAVE NOTHING BUT THEIR STATE OF DEPRIVATION AND UNCERTAINTIES, EDUCATION CAN EMPOWER THEM TO STRUGGLE FOR SOCIAL CHARGE. POLITICS: POLITICS IS A STRATEGY TO MAINTAIN ORDER AND COOPERATION AMONG PEOPLE OR INDIVIDUALS WITH DIFFERING NEEDS AND IDEALS IN LIFE, OR FOR REVOLVING CONFLICT WITHIN THE GROUP WHETHER THIS BE A FAMILY, A TRIBE, A VILLAGE OR A NATION-STATE. IT MAY BE UNDERSTOOD AS A CONTROL OVER THE SITUATION SO THAT DIFFERENCES ARE RESOLVED AND PREVENTED. THERE ARE TWO MAIN APPROACHES TO POLITICS NAMELY; POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY AND POLITICAL SCIENCE. POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY HAS A SPECULATIVE AND NORMATIVE CHARACTER BECAUSE IT DEALS WITH THE QUESTION OF WHAT IS POLITICS â€Å"OUGHT TO BE† OR WHAT IT SHOULD BE WHILE POLITICAL SCIENCE IS EMPIRICAL AND DESCRIPTIVE IN NATURE BECAUSE ITS MAIN CONCERN IS THE ANALYSIS AND DEFINITION OF THE STATE AND ITS INSTRUMENTALITIES AND DESCRIPTIONS OF THEIR FUNCTIONS. POLITICS IS THE SCIENCE AND ART OF GOVERNING SOCIETY IN THE PURSUIT OF COMMON GOOD THEN ITS CONCRETIZATION IS THE GOVERNMENT WHOSE AIM IS THE PEOPLE AND THE SECURITY AND WELFARE OF THE PEOPLE. FORTHETHREEGREATPHILOSOPHERSNAMELY;CONFUCIUS,PLATOANDNICCOLO MACHIAVELLI TO BE GOOD RESPONSIBLE POLITICAL LEADERS OF STATE THERE ARE VERY ESSENTIAL QUALITIES TO BE CONSIDERED. FOR CONFUCIUS, POLITICAL LEADERSHIP IS NOT FOR THE COMFORT AND ENJOYMENT OF THE RULERS, NOR ARE THEY SIMPLY FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF LAW AND ORDER, BUT FOR â€Å"THE HAPPINESS AND ENLIGHTENMENT OF THE PEOPLE†. HE ALSO PRESCRIBED THAT THOSE WHO ASPIRE TO LEAD THE PEOPLE MUST POSSESS THE VIRTUES OF HUMAN-HEARTEDNESS, RRIGHTEOUSNESS, PPROPRIETY AND Introduction to Philosophy WISDOM. FOR PLATO, A PERSON’S LIFE IS ORDERLY OR â€Å"JUST† WHEN HIS REASON CONTROLS THE EMOTION AND TEMPERS THE APPETITES. THE THREE KINDS OF PEOPLE SHOULD POSSESS THREE ELEMENTS IN MAN. A RULER SHOULD EMBRACE REASON, THE SOLDIERS OR WARRIORS SHOULD DEAL WITH THEIR EMOTION AND THE ARTISANS OR ORDINARY PEOPLE SHOULD CONTROL THEIR APPETITES. ALL CITIZENS MUST UNDERGO RIGID PHYSICAL, INTELLECTUAL AND MORAL TRAINING. PLATO’S PHILOSOPHY ON EDUCATION WAS ONE OF SO CALLED SELECTION & ELIMINATION. NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI WROTE A BOOK ENTITLED, â€Å"THE PRINCE â€Å"POLITICS, AS AN EXERCISE OF POWER, SHOULD BE DIVORCED FROM MORALITY AND RELIGION. POLITICS HAS NO MORALITY; IT IS A NAKED POWER OF â€Å"EXPEDIENCY†. OR HIM AN EFFECTIVE LEADER IS BOTH  A FOX AND A LION, BOTH A MAN AND A BEAST AND BOTH GREAT PRETENDER OR GREAT DISSEMBLER. B. Analysis (Critique) KNOWLEDGE: THESEARCHFORKNOWLEDGEISANEVER-ENDINGADVENTURE LIKEWE’VESEENIN MOVIES AND PLAYS. THE WHOLE OF REALITY IS TOO VAST THAT WE CAN KNOW ONLY TOO LITTLE OF IT IN OUR SHORT LIFE-TIME; HENCE, IT WOULD BE THE HEIGHT OF INNOCENCE TO NARROW OUR PRESENT KNOWLEDGE, UNLESS WE CHOOSE TO CLOSE OUR MIND TO OTHER POSSIBILITIES. OUR KNOWLEDGE IS A PRODUCT OF ALL OUR ABILITIES, SENSATION, REASON AND INTUITION. AND O AGREE WITH THE SAYING THAT â€Å"KNOWLEDGE IS POWER†, A POWER TO RECREATE THE  WORLD, A POWER TO CONSTRUCT A BETTER SOCIETY WHERE ALL MEN AND WOMEN COULD LIVE WITH DIGNITY, FREEDOM AND PEACE. I DO BELIEVE THAT THERE ARE ALWAYS MORE TO KNOW SINCE IT IS DYNAMIC AND TOO ENORMOUS. WE SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE THE GUTS, THE PASSION AND THE LOVE TO LEARN AND TO CONTINUE SEARCHING AND BUILDING ON THE BODY OF KNOWLEDGE. NO DOUBT, KNOWLEDGE ADDS COLOR AND RELATIVE CHARACTER TO MAKE OUR LIFE WORTH LIVING AND SPENDING. OUR KNOWLEDGE SHOULD NOT BE AFFECTED NOR DISTORTED BY OUR OWN COGNITION. WE SHOULD KEEP IN MIND TO ALWAYS USE REASONING SINCE IT IS ACQUIRING  KNOWLEDGE NOT JUST BASING IT TO WHAT WE PERCEIVE. YES, WE CAN CONSTRUCT KNOWLEDGE BY OUR SENSES TO EVERY SITUATION WE’RE EXPERIENCING YET WE SHOULD ALWAYS BE RATIONAL. KNOW THE REASON TO EVERY DETAIL NOT TO JUSTIFY THINGS BUT RATHER TO BE REASONABLE IN JUDGING AND JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS. KNOWLEDGE IS A STUFF OF REALITY; IT IS A WAY OF TRUTH AND NOT A WAY OF SEEMING OR GIVING OPINION. ALSO THE ONLY THING WE SHOULD NOT DOUBT IS THAT WE ALWAYS IN PARTICULAR SITUATION DOUBT. DON’T BE AFRAID TO DOUBT OR TO QUESTION THINGS BECAUSE IT IS A WAY OF ACQUIRING AND GAINING ALL WE NEED TO KNOW. ON THE OTHER HAND WE COULD STILL OBTAIN KNOWLEDGE THAT IT IS NOT THE SENSES, NOR REASON CAN PROVIDE ADEQUATE UNDERSTANDING OF REALITY BUT THE SO CALLED INTUITION. KNOWLEDGE IS AN INTERCONNECTED CHAIN WHEREIN THERE IS AN AGREEMENT WITH ONE SET OF KNOWLEDGE WITH ANOTHER SET OF IT. IT IS A CYCLE WITH NO BEGINNING AND ENDING. THE MORE WE BECOME CURIOUS THE MORE WE QUESTION AND THE MORE WE SEEK FOR THE ANSWER. WE ALWAYS HAVE THE PRIVILEGED TO OPEN OUR CLOSE UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD AND WE ARE FREE TO EXPLORE ITS LIMITATION AND BOUNDARY. WE ALWAYS HAVE THE KEY TO KNOW THE SECRETS OF THE REAL MEANING AND  Introduction to Philosophy VALUE OF LIFE. WE SHOULD NOT STOP TRAVELLING THE BEAUTIFUL AND COLOURFUL JOURNEY OF OUR EXISTENCE AND DON’T STOP TO STRIVE AND TO GAIN THE PERFECT AND UNDYING KNOWLEDGE. EDUCATION: SINCE WE ARE SEARCHING FOR KNOWLEDGE, HAVING AN EDUCATION IS OF GREAT HELP. IT IS A VITAL INSTRUMENT TO EXPLORE OUR LIMITATION AND TO GO BEYOND THE HORIZON. HAVING AN EDUCATION IS LIKE SEEING A RAINBOW AFTER A RAIN SHOWER; IT ADDS COLOR AND MEANING AFTER THE SUDDEN DARKNESS. WE SHOULD NOT JUST BE TRAINED, WE MUST BE EDUCATED. BEING EDUCATION FOR ME IS OPENING THE WINDOWS OF OUR MIND AND SOUL. WE SHOULD PUT EFFORT TO UNDERSTAND, TO COMPREHEND, AND TO BE SENSITIVE TO IDEAS, ASPIRATIONS AND INTEREST TO WHICH WE MIGHT OTHERWISE BE INDIFFERENT TO EACH OTHER. WE SHOULD NOT JUST BE CONTENTED JUST TO BE TRAINED BECAUSE IT SIMPLY MEANS WE JUST WANT TO IMPROVE OUR ABILITY TO DO SOMETHING WITHOUT DEEPENED UNDERSTANDING, WIDENED SYMPATHY OR HEIGHTENED ASPIRATIONS FOR IT. THERE SHOULD BE A COMMON AGREEMENT ON WHAT IS EDUCATION SHOULD AIM AND DEFINE THE PURPOSE OF EDUCATION WITH NO BIAS AND FAIR CHANCES TO PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT SOCIAL POSITIONS AND SHOULD NOT BE IN HARMONY WITH THEIR FUNDAMENTAL INTERESTS. IT WOULD BE AN ILLUSION TO EXPECT THE PREVAILING EDUCATION TO BE TRULY TRANSFORMATIVE AND LIBERATING BECAUSE OF TODAY’S INEQUALITY ESPECIALLY IN SOCIAL STATUS ASPECTS THUS THERE IS A NEED TO RE-INVENT EDUCATION SO THAT IT WILL FOSTER A NEW AWARENESS AND PERSPECTIVE THAT IS SUPPORTIVE AND REFLECTIVE TO OUR ASPIRATIONS AND STRUGGLE FOR SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION. POLITICS: EDUCATION HERE IN THE PHILIPPINES IS AFFECTED BY MANY FACTORS SUCH AS THE KIND OF POLITICS WE HAVE. I DO BELIEVE THAT POLITICS SHOULD FUNCTION AND AIMS TO GO AFTER THE WELFARE OF THE PEOPLE AND NOTHING ELSE BUT THE SECURITY AND NEEDS OF  PEOPLE. POLITICS IS BOTH A FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY. IT IS POWER YET WHEN USED IN A WRONG WAY OR BECOME A PURSUIT AND CHASE OF PERSONAL INTERESTS COULD BE ABUSED. POLITICS IS NOT JUST A SYSTEM ITSELF BUT A SYSTEM OF IDEAS WITH MISSION AND FUNCTIONS. IN SPITE OF THE CURRENT SITUATION IN OUR COUNTRY WE COULD STILL PURSUE A FAIR, JUST, HONEST AND RESPONSIBLE POLITICAL SYSTEM. WE COULD STILL MAKE A CHANGE. ASIDE FROM BEING A GOOD AND RELIABLE FOLLOWER WE COULD CHOOSE AND ELECT GOOD AND RIGHT POLITICAL LEADERS ESPECIALLY WITH OUR DEMOCRATIC TYPE OF SYSTEM. WE  NEED TO BE RESPONSIBLE ENOUGH TO DESIGNATE THE FIT AND APPROPRIATE RULER WITH THEIR BEST QUALITY AND CHARACTER. WE SHOULD CAREFULLY ANALYSE AND EVALUATE A POLITICAL RULER WHO HAS THE INTEREST IN SERVING THE PEOPLE WITH SINCERITY AND SHOULD NOT JUST MAINTAIN HIMSELF OR HERSELF IN POWER. C. Contextualization KNOWLEDGE: Introduction to Philosophy FILIPINO IS A KNOWLEDGE SEEKER AND SO EXPLORATIVE WHEN IT COMES TO NOURISH AND DEVELOP THEIR LEARNING AND ABILITIES. WE HAVE SO MANY PROUD KABABAYAN WHO ARE SO PASSIONATE AND DETERMINE IN ACQUIRING SUCH KNOWLEDGE THEY ARE LOOKING FOR. SOME OF US EVEN TRY TO GO TO OTHER COUNTRY FOR THEIR SEARCH FOR KNOWLEDGE. WE ARE NOT CONTENTED WITH JUST HAVING A KNOWLEDGE THAT IS ALREADY IN FRONT OF US. WE USUALLY GET OUT OF THE BOX AND GO BEYOND THE HORIZON. AND BECAUSE OF THIS PERSEVERANCE, MANY FILIPINOS FROM DIFFERENT FIELD BECOME SUCCESSFUL AND FAMOUS. MANY JOBS AND OPPORTUNITIES BECOME OPEN TO FILIPINOS BECAUSE OF THEIR ABILITY AND PASSION TO LEARN. EDUCATION: PUBERTY BECOMES A BARRIER TO ATTAIN THE GOAL OF HAVING A BETTER EDUCATION. NOWADAYS, AS YOU LOOK WITH THE STATUS OF OUR COUNTRY, PHILIPPINES I MUST SAY THAT  WE OUR STRUGGLING ESPECIALLY THE UNFORTUNATE INDIVIDUAL TO GET SUCH APPROPRIATE AND GOOD QUALITY OF EDUCATION. IN OUR COUNTRY; LIVING STATUS AFFECTS A LOT IN MAINTAINING A GOOD QUALITY OF EDUCATION. THERE ARE SO MANY FAMILIES WHO BATTLE FOR FINANCING THE OTHER EXPENSES OF THEIR CHILD LIKE PROJECT AND DAILY TRANSPORTATION AND FOOD ALLOWANCE. FOR AN UNDERPRIVILEGED FAMILY WITH INCOME THAT IS NOT ENOUGH WITH THEIR DAILY CONSUMPTION, HAVING A BUDGET FOR EDUCATION COULD BE A LEAST PRIORITY. MANY OF THE YOUTH TODAY EVEN THEY WANT TO CONTINUE THEIR COLLEGE JUST COULD NOT BECAUSE THEY HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO WORK TO SUPPORT  AND PROVIDE FINANCIALLY FOR THEIR FAMILY. ALSO IT IS COMMON, IN SOME FAR BARRIOS MANY FILIPINO CHILDREN BEFORE THEY COULD REACH THE NEAREST SCHOOL FROM THEIR HOUSE THEY NEED TO STRUGGLE AND WALK ON RIVERS AND EVEN SOME SLOPPY MOUNTAIN BEFORE THEY CAN GET THERE. IN SPITE THEIR DEDICATION TO BE EDUCATED, SCHOOL BUILDINGS AND GOOD LEARNING FACILITIES AND MATERIALS IS NOT ENOUGH TP ACCOMMODATES LARGE POPULATION IN OUR COUNTRY. ALSO CORRUPTION IS ONE OF THE MAJOR REASONS WHY NUMBER OF FILIPINO IS UNABLE TO AVAIL THEIR RIGHTS TO BE EDUCATED. INSTEAD OF FINANCING THE EDUCATION SECTOR, THE MONEY OF FILIPINOS GOES  TO THE POCKET OF THOSE WHO ARE GREED AND SELFISH OFFICIALS. NO DOUBT, PHILIPPINES IS A RICH COUNTRY WITH ITS SPLENDID NATURAL RESOURCES YET OUR MONEY COULD NOT EVEN FINANCIALLY PROVIDE AND GIVE STABLE WORKS AND OPPORTUNITIES TO THOSE WHO NEED JOBS. POLITICS: IT BEEN AN ORDINARY SCENARIO DURING ELECTION THAT THERE ARE SO MANY UNNECESSARY ACTIONS TOOK PLACE LIKE VOTE BUYING, BALLOT RESULT CHEATING, KILLING OF POLITICAL RIVALRY, AND THE LIKES JUST FOR THOSE SELF-CENTRED ASPIRANT OFFICIALS TO WIN THE SAID ELECTION. AND EVEN AFTER THE ELECTION, DURING THEIR SERVING YEARS SO  MANY VOID PRACTICE IS BEEN HAPPENING. CORRUPTION IS ONE OF THE MAJOR PROBLEMS HERE IN THE PHILIPPINES. MANY ELECTED POLITICAL OFFICIALS ABUSE THE POWER GIVEN TO THEM FOR THEIR OWN INTERESTS. TODAY’S ISSUE IS WHAT THEY CALLED PORK BARREL SCANDAL WHEREIN THE BUDGET ALLOTTED AND GIVEN TO POLITICAL OFFICIAL FOR THEIR PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS THAT SHOULD AND MUST HELP FILIPINO GOES TO POCKET OF JUST SOME PEOPLE. FINGER POINTING AND HAND WASHING THAT THEY DON’T USE ANY OF THE PUBLIC MONEY FOR THEIR OWN WELFARE IS STILL ON INVESTIGATION AND NOT YET ANSWERED. Introduction to Philosophy  INSTITUTIONALIZING IS ALSO HAPPENING IN OUR COUNTRY AND THE MOST AFFECTED ARE THE PUBLIC ESPECIALLY THE POOR. IT IS ALSO COMMON IN OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM HAVING A FAMILY DYNASTY WHEREIN THE POWER IN MANY PLACES IS JUST IN THE HAND OF ONE FAMILY. EVEN WE ALREADY HAVE AUTOMATED KIND OF ELECTION SYSTEM, WE STILL STRUGGLE TO HAVE THE FAIR AND JUST POLITICAL SYSTEM WE ARE LOOKING AND HOPING TO ACHIEVE. LASTLY, WE FILIPINOS STILL ELECTING WRONG PUBLIC SERVANT. WE ARE STILL BLIND WITH THEIR LOOKS, WHETHER THEY ARE CELEBRITIES OR IF EVEN THEY TEND TO FINISH THEIR EDUCATION AND WITH THEIR FLOWERING PROMISES AND WORDS. WE NEVER REALLY PRACTICE A CRITICAL JUDGEMENT TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT AND THE GOOD STATE RULER. D. Evaluation 1. SUBJECT THE SUBJECT PHILOSOPHY REALLY HELPED ME TO BE OPEN-MINDED AND CRITICALLY INCLINED WITH EVERYTHING AROUND ME. WE HAVE SO MANY THINGS WE STILL NEED TO KNOW AND ACQUIRE YET PHILOSOPHY SERVES AS AN ASSISTING TOOL TO REALLY KNOW THE MEANING OF OUR OWN EXISTENCE AND THE REAL MEANING OF OUR LIFE AND ITS PURPOSE. MY CLOSED WORLD BECOMES EXPOSED WITH WHAT IS REALLY HAPPENING. 2. PROF SIR RODERICK CENTENO IS A VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE, RESPECTED AND FULL OF SENSE KIND OF PROFESSOR IN PHILOSOPHY. WE REALLY ENJOYED LISTENING TO HIS LECTURES ABOUT PHILOSOPHY. IT SO REFRESHING THAT WHILE LEARNING WE’VE ABLE TO HAVE FUN AND ENJOY EVERY LEARNING AND DISCUSSION. THE REPORTING IS A GOOD WAY FOR US STUDENT TO EXPRESS OUR PERSPECTIVES AND OPINIONS ON THINGS. IT HELPS TO BOOST OUR INTEREST AND AWARENESS ON THE THINGS THAT BEFORE WE REALLY DON’T HAVE CARE AND IS NONE OF OUR BUSINESS. THE REFLECTION WRITING ACTIVITIES IS A USEFUL FOR US TO HAVE SECOND THOUGHTS TO EVERY ISSUE AND DECISIONS. AND I OBSERVED THAT SIR GIVES IMPORTANCE IN MANAGING HIS AND OUR TIME. Introduction to Philosophy.

Drawing from module materials, analyzing how Fair trade consumption Essay

Drawing from module materials, analyzing how Fair trade consumption shapes the ethical experience of its users. How does this pa - Essay Example Thus, the essence of Fair Trade Consumption is not just to desire to be ethical, but to believe in the concept of ethical behavior for both the corporations and individuals, to approve of such ethical behavior and to demand that such behaviors be displayed by the business community (Simon, 2007 p18). The concepts of both demand and approval therefore shape the focus of this organizational form, where the demand of any corporate product is made based on the self-approval of the necessary ethical compliance. Fair Trade Consumption demands that we, as the ethical players should not just desire to be ethical, but that ethical behavior should be the basis of all consumptions we make and a fundamental feature of what we think as self, not just as a fair practice, but out of self-approval (Simon, 2007 p23). Fair trade consumption is an organizational form that serves to shape the ethical behaviors of both the producers and consumers, as well as that of all the organizations and agencies tha t operate in between, through creating a partnership that is based on dialogue, mutual respect for all parties and transparency (Bryant & Goodman, 2004 p344). Oxfam is an example of a firm operating under the Fair trade consumption umbrella, which has opened over 750 charity shops for selling second hand clothes, books and other items, for the mere purpose of ensuring to reach the less disadvantaged, while also enhancing the environmental conservation efforts (Clarke, et al., 2007 p585). While the organization of Fair trade consumption could be perceived as political mechanism that is not compatible with the business goals and objectives, the truth is that this organizational form has helped to shape who individuals believe they are, through a process referred to as Ethical Selving (Shreck, 2005 p18). For example, the Fair trade Movement has been working towards raising awareness among the consumers, regarding the negative effects of their non-ethical purchasing, to enable such cons umers exercise their purchasing powers responsibly and positively, through supporting the organizations, business entities and corporations that are enhancing developmental sustainability through corporate social responsibility and caring for the environment (Doherty & Clarke, 2012 p297). This campaign has been geared towards enhancing conventional international trade, which is based on the precepts of transparency, dialogue and respect for all the stakeholders in trade. The organizational form of Fair trade consumption does not seek to enhance responsible trading of the trading partners through trading activities only, but also through campaigns for raising awareness, geared towards ensuring that ethical business standards are not just a preserve of the partners within the Fair trade consumption organization, but the same should hold both locally and internationally (Williams, 2013 p17). The purchase and consumption of Fair trade products does not only serve to present the individu al buyer as one who cares about the implications of poor business practices, but to define the individual as an ethical person (Bird & Hughes, 1997 p167). Therefore, through purchasing Fair trade products, the individual purchasers tend to rebrand themselves as ethical, and that fact with time sinks

Interpretations of David Lynch's film Blue Velvet (1986) often suggest Essay

Interpretations of David Lynch's film Blue Velvet (1986) often suggest that the film either cultivates the sincere and innocent - Essay Example They do not reveal anything about the investigation but it is here that he meets Sandy (Laura Dern), the detective’s daughter, who unveils what her father has deciphered about the case- that a woman named Dorothy Vallens (Isabella Rossellini) is a suspect of the case. Jeffrey then poses as a help man and as Dorothy is engaged in conversation with a man in the yellow suit (to whom Jeffrey later refers to as Yellow Man), Jeffrey takes the key to Dorothy’s apartment. Sandy and Jeffrey then attend Dorothy’s nightclub act where she sings ‘Blue Velvet’, and from thereon Jeffrey leaves early to sneak into Dorothy’s apartment to find clues. When Dorothy arrives he hides in her closet, but she sensing him finds him with a knife in her hand. Mistaking Jeffrey’s curiosity for sexual interest she forces him to undress as she threatens him with the knife. At this point Dorothy engages in orally stimulating Jeffrey. The encounter is interrupted by a knock on the door whereby Dorothy pushes Jeffrey back in the closet from where he witnesses that the visitor-Frank Booth (Dennis Hopper)- attempts to molest, abuse and rape Dorothy. Hiding in the closet Jeffrey finds that Frank Booth is a drug dealer who has kidnapped Dorothy’s husband and son so that he may use Dorothy to satisfy his sexual appetite. When Frank has left Dorothy turns to Jeffrey and attempts to make him mistreat her but he refuses and leaves even upon her insistence for him to stay. Jeffrey later relays his experience to Sandy and subsequently they go to Dorothy’s club where she performs Blue Velvet yet again. At the club Jeffrey observes Frank Booth who is fondling a piece of blue velvet which he had torn from Dorothy’s clothes the night Jeffrey has witnessed his assault and rape of Dorothy. It is then that Jeffrey decides to follow Frank. The next scenes show Jeffrey prying on Frank and his connection with the Yellow Man and another man which Jeffrey identifies as the Well Dressed Man. Jeffrey goes onto inform Sandy about his new findings and it is then that the sexual tension between the two breaks and they engage in a soft kiss. But Sandy is reluctant to go any further with Jeffrey because she has a boyfriend and Jeffrey taking this as rejection turns to Dorothy and the two have sexual intercourse. During this second intimate encounter with Dorothy, Dorothy is able to extract a frustrated reaction from Jeffrey whereby he turns and hits her. Instantly, we see that Jeffrey regrets this violent act but Dorothy enjoys it. Afterwards, Frank Booth finds Dorothy and Jeffrey coerces them to go to his partner Ben’s apartment. The scene at Ben’s residence is sadistic, here Ben sings ‘In Dreams’ and in the wake of this music Frank punches Jeffrey to unconsciousness when Jeffrey attempts to hit Frank when the later molests Dorothy. In the morning Frank wakes up in the yard where he had been beaten uncons cious and goes to Sandy’s father (the detective) to relay the entire course of events. That day Sandy accompanies Jeffrey to a dance and upon their return to Jeffrey’s residence they find a stricken, naked and traumatized Dorothy on Jeffrey’s lawn. Sandy is gone to fetch the police and her father and take them to Dorothy’

The causes of the Civil War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The causes of the Civil War - Essay Example Today the American Civil War represents one of the most important conflicts in the history of the United States. While the war itself only lasted from 1861-1865, the effects have been felt significantly throughout the United States since. In addition to enacting significant death tolls on both the Northern and Southern participants, the political ramifications of the conflict were truly revolutionary as they resulted in the emancipation of slaves throughout the country. While ostensibly the Civil War was a direct result of then President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, declaring the abolishment of slavery, upon further inspection it’s clear there are a number of complex causes behind the war. This essay considers the various causes to the Civil War in an attempt to gain a broader understanding of their political implications. Perhaps the primary catalyst behind the Civil War was the economic differences between the Northern and Southern states. While indust rialization had enacted factory production and similar means of economic subsistence in the Northern states, the Southern states had evolved along a different path. Within the Southern regions, where the climate encouraged more agricultural means of production, the economy had become almost entirely reliant on cotton production. Within this spectrum of existence, cheap labor was essential to ensure the economy functioned, so slavery became a key part of Southern existence. In addition to embracing slavery, the Northern modes of city-life encouraged greater means of interaction between the social classes. As a result, it’s argued that Northern regions evolved more progressive views on the social hierarchy, while the Southern regions remained in an antiquated order (Chambers 1999). This would led to conflicting perspectives that would eventually mount, greatly contributing to the opposing regions engaging in warfare. Another pivotal aspect that contributed to the start of the C ivil War was general disagreements on political policy between the Northern and Southern regions. In these regards, one of the primary disagreements was between the belief the Southern belief that states should be primarily responsible for determining legal policy, versus the Northern view that the Federal government should be the primary decision maker in these matters. One of the primary arguments was advanced by politician John C Calhoun and referred to as nullification. This would give states the power to nullify laws that were passed by the Federal Government. As it became clear that such a measure would not be allowed, the Southern states moved toward seceding from the Union (Jones 1999). Ultimately, this would be a primary influence in bringing the Southern states to war. Another primary political issue was the moral disagreement between individuals that supported slavery and those that were vehemently opposed to it. As slavery had become a long-entrenched aspect of the Ameri can economic landscape, even as growing concern over its immoral aspects mounted it became increasingly difficult to break the nation from these past practices. With the Louisiana Purchase, the United States gained a large portion of land in the Western United States. The Federal Government deemed that new states admitted to the Union through this land would be free from slavery, placing increased pressure on the Southern states that embraced slavery to move toward abolishment. In addition to these aspects, tension began to emerge between the Southern and Northern states regarding slave laws. With laws such as the Compromise of 1850, Federal officials in southern and northern regions were forced to arrest fugitive slaves, or else themselves be arrested or fined (Gienapp 2001). Laws such as this caused tension with Northern individuals that believed these laws violated general human rights. In addition, there existed a growing abolitionist movement of political revolutionaries that s ought to end slavery through protesting and sometimes violent means. These

Art History Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Art History - Research Paper Example What world did they see in the early 1860s, when Impressionism stormed into their lives as the wind of change? Social disruptions at the end of the 18th century, revolutions in France and America, transformed the very essence of Western culture, which cannot but affect the role of art in a rapidly changing society. Accustomed to some social orders from the ruling dynasties or the church, artists suddenly found that all the customers left them. The nobility and clergy experienced serious financial and social troubles. The era of capitalism came, which changed the art rules and priorities totally. Gradually established republics and democratic powers witnessed the growth of the middle class and this growth caused the development of the new art market. Unfortunately, entrepreneurs and traders usually lacked hereditary culture and education, without which it was impossible to understand the diversity of allegories or skillful mastery, which charmed the aristocracy. Without any aristocratic upbringing and education, the middle-class representatives, who suddenly became the art consumers, had to rely on the opinion of professionals - newspaper critics and official experts. The artistic academies, the watchers of the classical canons, became the central arbiters in the issue of artistic preferences. So, it’s not a paradox that some young and talented artists rebelled against the conformity and dominance of the formal academism in art. The major strongholds of the academicism at that time were state patronized exhibitions of contemporary art – the Salons. Participation in the Salon was the only chance to attract attention of the press and customers. The Salon was a unique opportunity to acquire a customer, to build a career in art. Auguste Renoir, in his letter to his dealer Durand-Ruel, criticizes status quo: â€Å"In Paris there are scarcely fifteen people who capable of liking a painter who doesn’t show at

Mentorship and work based learning and assessment Essay

Mentorship and work based learning and assessment - Essay Example The whole process of this developmental and assessment framework is required to be supported and assessed by mentors. The midwifery mentors who have additionally qualified to be sign-off mentors as part of their mentorship qualification programme would make the final assessment of practice, and after the assessment, if the registrant qualifies the NMC standards, they would be recommended to be registered (Nursing and Midwifery Council, 2004). To be able to do this, NMC has further designed the framework in such a way that if the outcomes are met within the rigorous provisions of accountability, the registrant midwives will be qualified to be registered. The domains in this framework are establishing effective working relationship, facilitation of learning, assessment with rigorous accountability, evaluation of learning, more importantly creating an environment of learning, establishing context of practice, promoting evidence-based practice, and inducing leadership. This framework wil l be suited for working in the modern healthcare, and there would be a perspective of inter-professional learning (Nursing and Midwifery Council, 2006). Furthermore, this has a close correlation with the career pathways of the midwives due to the fact that NHS has launched KFC scheme as indicators of terms and conditions of service for their employees (Nursing and Midwifery Council, 2006b). Career pathways in midwifery is considered as part of the new pay and career structure that have been developed in Agenda For Change, and this has been linked to the Knowledge and Skills framework. The Agenda For Change is a career framework for the NHS employees that include the midwifery professionals (UKCC, 1999). The KSF in turn is a framework to assess the progress and development of the staff within the pay bands. This needs a modification of the professional demarcations and

Importance of islam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Importance of islam - Essay Example By gaining an understanding of the history, the students will know how Allah’s almighty law works in the lives of people. Islam is derived from an Arabic word meaning peace and teaches that in total submission to Allah, the creator, one finds peace. Muslims believe Allah is the only God and He is the only one who deserves worship hence any praise of saints or human beings is perceived as idolatry. The five pillars of Islam are prayer, fasting, testimony of faith, alms giving and pilgrimage and help to strengthen the obedience and faith of Muslims. Islam religion is a daily way of life which organizes the social, political and economic aspects of life including relations with God, families and other brethren. Islam maintains that Archangel Gabriel relayed messages to Prophet Muhammad from the year 610AD to 632AD. Muhammad is the final messenger of God and the revelation he received was called Quran. In 633AD, the first Islamic ruler, Abu Bakr commissioned the production of Quran since there was no Quran that was completely written and approved. The sacred task that Mohammad was entrusted was important a nd the Quran has glorified and exalting Allah. Therefore, it is crucial for students to a have knowledge of the Quran and the origin of Islam (Sonn, 2004). The legitimate basis for a person to adopt a religion should be that the claims of the religion are true. The Quran and Hadith are important because they are the legal sources of Islam. The Quran is also a book of guidance therefore it is important for the religious studies students to know and be able to prove who composed it. The Quran explains the challenges accusations and attacks of different prophets who were sent to nations. In writing the brief history of the Quran, the students will also have to explain how the seven versions of Quran came about since God expressed it in Arabic only. Another

Comparative Politics Midterm Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Comparative Politics Midterm - Essay Example The answer to this question is simple and straightforward. This is the most popular pattern of democracy, practical from the functional point of view of the government in power. In a democracy, the political party that wins the election, turns to be the powerful chair and the party/parties those are defeated turn to be chair-less powers! Elucidating this issue further Arend Lijphart writes, â€Å"The majoritarianism-consensus contrast arises from the most basic and literal definition of democracy-government by the people or, in representative democracy, government by the representative of the people—and President Abraham Lincolns famous further stipulation that democracy means government not only by but also for the people—that is government in accordance with the peoples preferences.†(1) From the technical point of view, and going the by the rule book of democracy, the issue is clear. The party in majority, rules the country and its decisions are final and legal ly binding on the people. The Consensus Model is to accommodate for the viewpoints of the other party /parties, even though they have lost the election are obliged to sit in the opposition benches. In this model, there is always room for the others. They believe, two heads are better than one. Lijphart throws more light of the functioning of such democracies and he comments, â€Å"The alternative answer to the dilemma is: as many as possible. This is the crux of the consensus model. It does not differ from the majoritartian model on accepting that majority rule is better than minority rule, but it accepts majority only as a minimum requirement: instead of being satisfied with narrow decision-making majorities, it seeks to maximize the size of these majorities.†(2) Working as per the guidelines of this model, the majority party does not believe that whatever it decides is correct; rather it is willing to believe and implement, whatever correct is there, belongs to all. The French system of

Recommendations for the Best Interests of a Child Essay Example for Free

Recommendations for the Best Interests of a Child Essay Ted and Joanna Kramer have been married for six years before she decided to leave him and their son Billy. She believes that she is unfit to continue being a mother and has decided to force her husband into taking care of their child by simply leaving. Mr. Kramer had been ignorant of the depression that has gripped his wife through more than half of their married life because he was too busy with his job. Both father and son were hoping that Mrs. Kramer would come back but weeks turned to months and she would just write letters. Meanwhile, Mr. Kramer and the child have been able to establish their own relationship and routines. They grew fond of each other and have learned to put more effort in keeping their bond stronger. On the other hand, Mrs. Kramer had transferred to another state and has been undergoing therapy. Upon realizing that she does have self-worth, she decided to come back to work in New York and fight for custody. Mr. Kramer is equally determined to keep the child because he was not sure if his wife was stable enough to really take care of their son. Recommendation The court must ensure that its decision would be for the best interests of Billy Kramer who is now seven years old. Upon examination of the situation and both parties’ relationship to each other, the recommendation is for both parents to share legal custody of the child. Physical custody shall be solely granted to the father, Ted Kramer. Joanna Kramer shall be allowed visitation rights. Recommendations are based on the following reasons: 1. Although both parents show great affection for their son, the absence of a caring father at home may be particularly tough for a boy; those who see little of their fathers during their childhoods and have no substitute male presence in their lives may later have trouble making and keeping friends. (Eisenberg, et. al. , 1996, p. 792) 2. Although records from Mrs. Kramer’s psychologist show, her positive response to therapy, approximately six years of depression cannot be solved in merely fifteen months. It would be wise for Mrs. Kramer to gain more understanding of herself and her own needs before she takes custody of their child. 3. Billy Kramer has already established a daily routine with his father and this has helped this child cope with the distressful absence of his mother. Should the court decide to grant Joanna Kramer full custody, this shall uproot Billy from the lifestyle he has already gotten used to and may affect him negatively. 4. Joint legal custody in this case shall be needed to support the child’s needs. Mrs. Kramer’s salary is higher than Mr. Kramer’s and Billy would benefit most if both parents can provide his needs financially. 5. The impact of change on the child must be taken into consideration. When parents live far away, it can be hard for children to maintain a feeling of continuity between both of their homes. (Davis Keyser, 1997, p. 391) 6. In general, custody laws and decisions favor continued and frequent contact between the child and both parents, as well as an ongoing role for both parents in the raising of their children. (http://www. healthline. com/galecontent/child-custody-laws) Visitation rights for Mrs. Kramer can help Billy feel secure about his family and self. Evaluation has been done to ensure the child’s interest and therefore, the recommendation is for both parents to share legal custody; Mr. Kramer be granted full physical custody; and Mrs. Kramer be granted visitation rights. References Davis, L. Keyser, J. (1997). Becoming the Parent You Want to Be. Broadway Books New York, p. 391. Eisenberg, A. , Murkoff, H. E. Hathaway, S. E. (1996). What To Expect The Toddler Years. Workman Publishing New York p. 792. Retrieved May 11, 2007 from http://www. healthline. com/galecontent/child-custody-laws

Design Of Perfomance Linked Reward System Business Essay

Design Of Perfomance Linked Reward System Business Essay Performance-related reward system involves rewarding employees according to their performance, or results achieved or contribution to organisations performance as individuals or as a part of a group. It involves a shift of focus from remuneration models based on the worth of jobs and employee skills to their performance. Designing a performance-linked reward system is conditioned by a variety of factors such as the nature of business, type of technology, the attitude of unions and human resource management strategies of the organisation. Therefore, no particular model can be recommended; it has to be custom-tailored. Performance-linked reward systems reduce labour cost, result in increases in real wages and motivate performance. They provide a method of absorbing cost escalation on account of pay increases and thus help in sustaining competitiveness of the organisation. It has been increasingly realised that performance-related pay, if used in isolation, may have little impact on motivation for performance. Appropriate conditions in the organisation have to be created for performance-linked reward systems to be motivationally effective. These conditions, for instance, will involve proper information, consultation, communication mechanisms, training and development of employees, developing proactive attitude and performance-oriented culture, providing non- monetary incentives and evolving an efficient performance management system and so on. Reward system cannot be seen in isolation from compensation management. Compensation management is getting increasingly integrated with business and human resource management strategy. Reward system should, therefore, be considered as an aid to better performance in a performance management system which may be integrated with the overall business plan and strategy. FORMS AND CHOICE OF PERFORMANCE LINKED REWARD SYSTEM There are several types of performance-linked reward schemes. Generally, these are designed to-share with or distribute to employees as individuals, groups or a collectivity productivity gains, profit improvement or financial results of enterprise performance. Such schemes fall into the following broad categories: Schemes based on individual or small group performance including piece rates, traditional merit pay, and sales commission. Incentive schemes which may relate pay to profits on the basis of a pre- determined formula. Bonus schemes based on contribution to productivity and profitability according to a pre-determined formula with gains sometimes distributed among the individual employees on the basis of merit rating. Productivity Bargaining. Employee Stock Options Plan (ESOP). Competency-based pay. 1. Merit Incentive Pay A common method which has long been in existence is pay increase or bonus payment on the basis of performance rating. The merit incentive pay scheme provides another method of recognising and rewarding differential performance. This method could particularly be suitable for office staff. The scheme essentially involves the following steps: a) The determination of result-oriented merit rating procedures, b) The identification of job factors and their relative importance, c) The formulation of a scale of reward, and d) The communication of the basis of monetary reward. Illustratively, job factors of salesman can be identified as (a) sales promotion, (b) realisation of outstandings, and (c) good-will calls, (d) after-sales service and, (e) investigation of complaints. These tasks will differ in their degree of importance. This difference can be recognised by imputing numerical values to different job factors. Hypothetically, let us assign weight values of 5, 3 and 2 respectively to the above tasks. In practice, weight values can be ascertained through job analysis. The actual merit rating score will give the percentage of basic wage or basic wage plus D.A. as incentive bonus. Given a result-oriented merit rating procedure and its objective operation in an organization, it should not be difficult to install a merit incentive pay system. This is not to minimise the difficulties that are usually encountered in operating a -merit rating system. The effectiveness of the performance appraisal system will depend on the soundness of the performance appraisal system. Sometimes merit increments and merit awards are also given in recognition of superior performance on the part of individuals. These are poor substitutes for a system of merit incentive pay because of several shortcomings. Under a system of merit increments, there is no prompt relationship between reward and effort. The quantum of reward at a point of time will be considered inadequate. Additional cost in the form of enhanced allowances is built for the company on permanent basis. Employees continue to benefit from their best performance even if it remains below standard in the future. Employees getting merit awards cannot visualise a proportionate relationship between their performance and reward. The basis of determining the quantum can not be explained to employees who are not given such awards. This may evoke jealously and friction and may thus jeopardise cooperation and goodwill. Incentive Payments Lumpsum payments such as sales commission is another traditional method. Generally, the performance and the payment of lumpsum are linked by a formula. Sales commission, however, does not generally consider other parameters of performance such as realisation of outstandings and selling high profit margin products. Another traditional method of rewarding performance is piece rates. There are several weaknesses in this system. It is not easy to agree with workers on the standard output required. Frequent changes may be needed in the standard output due to technology changes and this may lead to conflict between unions and management. Also factors other than individual performance such as change in work method affect output. Conflicts may also arise between different work groups when one group is dependent on another. There is a potential for conflict when norms have to be revised because of such factors as technology changes. Also, modernisation of technology and automation has rendered piece rates somewhat obsolete. 2. Incentive Schemes Output-based incentive scheme are appropriate where tasks are repetitive and measurable. These involve the following steps: Selecting the objectives Determining the parameters of performance in accordance with the objectives Determining the norms or base values or benchmark values for each parameter Determining performance-reward relationship Fixing the relative importance of the selected parameters, that is, their weightages Designing information and procedure formats Determining the maximum payable incentive amount (incentive opportunity) and , payment period Formulating a communication and review scheme These are, however, not suitable for high technology and service activities, which require information sharing, problem solving and team work. Productivity gain or profit sharing or employee stock options plan (ESOP) may be suitable types for such activities. 3. Group Incentive and Productivity Gain Sharing Under the productivity gain sharing schemes, productivity gains are shared in accordance to an agreed pre-determined formula. Profit sharing gives a share of profit. Sometimes, the quantum of bonus is determined on the basis of profit as well as productivity improvements according to a pre-determined benchmark value for each of them. 4. Productivity Bargaining Productivity bargaining can provide yet another method of improving productivity and linking wage increases- to such improvements. Productivity bargaining, however, does not mean an incentive scheme or wage increases in return for assurances and promises from unions for achieving production targets. This method implies (a) a detailed analysis of the firms operations, (b) the identification of cost reduction possibilities, (c) estimation of savings in cost, and (d) the development of a system o indexing wage increases with cost reductions actually realised over time. The climate for productivity bargaining has never been more favourable than now. It is for managements to take initiative and build this approach in their collective bargaining relationship with Unions. 5. Long-Term Incentive (ESOP) Long-term incentive in the form of employee stock options schemes are operated both to improve long-term incentive and to reduce fixed cost. ESOP envisages employee participation in and ownership of a companys equity. This plan is intended to provide an incentive to the employees to improve the all- round performance and growth of the company and share its prosperity. The plan usually involves allotment of equity shares according to a laid down procedure and subject to governmental regulations, laws and rules. The employees benefit in the form of enhanced market value of his shares and capital gains, which in turn depend on companys and employee performance. Several software and high-tech organisations such as Infosys have conceived and designed such plans. 6. Competency-based Pay The competency is a critical determinant of performance. Therefore, there is an increasing interest in offering monetary incentive for acquiring competencies required for higher performance on the present job or for the next job. Such competency may for instance include values, attitude and behavioural characteristics which influence performance. In designing a performance linked reward scheme, choice of an appropriate scheme should be considered as critical. The choice will be determined by a variety of factors such as the nature of the organisation, the nature of technology, the nature of profits, the nature of markets, the human resource strategy and business objectives. STEPS IN DESIGNING There is a variety of forms of performance-linked schemes. These must be closely adapted to the particular conditions of individual enterprises and the concerned groups of companies. In designing a custom-tailored performance-linked reward scheme, the following steps are important: 1. Custom-Tailored There is little scope for relying on model or standardized schemes. Attempts to impose specific performance-linked reward systems through central regulations generally appear to fail. Frequently the appropriateness of what is being required may appear questionable from the perspective of individual enterprises. Therefore, care must be taken in adapting such schemes to the particularities of individual enterprises. 2. Objectives The objectives of the schemes need to be carefully formulated. Such objectives are needed to guide the selection of performance measures, the specification of bonus calculation formulae and the reaching of common understanding on the size of bonuses that may be expected through the schemes. The potential for performance improvement may vary greatly from one enterprise to another, as well as with the passage of time. Both the short and long run objectives for the scheme should be identified. 3. Selection of Performance Measures The selection of performance measures must be consistent with the scheme objectives; these must encourage those types of behaviour considered important for organizational performance such as increasing output, reducing labour and other costs, improving quality or timeliness of delivery, encouraging co-operation amongst work groups, enhancing adaptability and innovations, etc. In addition, they must not be pursued at the expense of other performance parameters. At the same time, the measures of performance selected should, to a large extent, be under employee control, and not influenced by external influences. Employees will be demotivated if their best efforts are offset by factors they cannot control. The unit, the performance of which is measured, should be small enough to ensure that workers can see some relation between their efforts and rewards. To ensure motivational effectiveness, the measures of performance should also be easily understood by the workers concerned, subject to ready verification if suspicions arise, and be calculable at frequent intervals. 4. Basis Depending on circumstances, performance awards may be determined on the basis of improvements over the previous year, improvements over a base period performance, or the maintenance of a high level of performance. Bonuses which become exceptionally large should be integrated into basic wages in order to avoid distortions in pay structures. Where necessary, it may be advisable to resort to procedures for stabilising bonuses of lengthening the period over which performance is calculated. 5. External Influences To the extent possible, the initial agreement establishing the scheme should specify how target performance levels are to be dealt with when their achievement is affected by external influences such as changes in. production methods, product mix and prices of inputs and outputs. 6. Distribution The rule for the distribution of bonuses amongst workers should be simple and widely supported. It may be based on wage rates or average earnings. Also, to discourage excessive absenteeism, bonus is sometimes varied with the number of hours or days worked. However, distributions in accordance with assessments of individual worker performance by supervisors may be problematic, especially if such assessments lead to significant variation in pay. 7. Equity There should be equal opportunities to earn bonuses, even though the performance measures may vary. In addition, performance targets should be set after a careful scrutiny of the historical behaviour of the measures selected. The quantum of bonus should be significant enough to evoke extra efforts. At the same time performance awards should not be so large as to put at risk a significant part of employee earnings for reasons beyond their control. 8. Safeguards Such schemes should not be substituted for wage increases that otherwise would have been granted or replace fixed wages with variable wages. Performance pay should supplement rather than replace existing wage bargaining arrangements and should not question the need to maintain basic wages at adequate levels. Perhaps of even greater importance in some contexts may be the need to give assurances to existing employees that productivity improvements would not place jobs in jeopardy. 9. Involvement and Communication Such schemes must be perceived as acting in the interest of employees as well as employers. Accordingly such schemes must be implemented in ways that convince employees that they will receive a fair share of the benefits derived from their extra efforts and their jobs will not be threatened. Schemes based on collective performance work more effectively when the scheme objectives and operation are explained in detail to all the employees concerned. The success of schemes depends to a large extent on the amount of effort given by management to consultation at various stages in the planning and design of the scheme, in the process of implementation and monitoring of results. In addition, the schemes have a better chance of success if employees are provided with full opportunities to present their ideas for bringing about improvement. Performance- linked schemes function most effectively when they are accompanied by a formal participative system that facilitates: (a) the transformation of agreed practical suggestions into actual changes in operating methods and procedures; (b) two-way communications at all levels on operating difficulties and general business trends. 10. Union Participation in the Design Performance reward schemes may work most effectively when worker representatives are given full opportunity to participate in their design and administration. Such involvement may facilitate comprehension and acceptance of scheme objectives. Moreover, workers may only fully trust the scheme if it has been elaborated in consultation and agreement with worker representatives and they are subsequently given opportunities to verify that awards is being calculated fairly. Also, the commonality of interests of workers and employers in improved productivity, performance, earnings and equity is likely to be much more apparent where pay systems are developed and elaborated in accordance with rules established through collective bargaining. 11. Review There should be a clear provision for modifications owing to changes in production methods or in prices or inputs or outputs. The effectiveness of all pay systems decays with time and the duration of schemes based on collective measures of performance are particularly short. Accordingly it should be foreseen that the basic parameters of such schemes would undergo regular periodic revisions. Indeed it should be expected from the outset that the collective performance measures and targets would undergo continuing change every few years in the light of the experience. ISSUES AND TRENDS There are many issues and trends occur in linking performance with reward system which are as follows:- 1. Level of Education The level of education of the employees, among other factors, will determine what type of scheme is likely to be easily understood by them and will motivate them. The nature of the business and the operations will also influence. Organisations in low cost manufacturing or which promote innovation, skills and higher performance or which are in service industries may need to consider different forms of performance pay. Their business and human resource management strategy will differ; the form and content as well as objectives of performance pay should be consistent with them. 2. Trade Union The chance of success of performance-linked pay will depend on the tradition of collective bargaining and attitudes of unions. While the negative attitudes hinder its introduction, the positive attitude considerably facilitates it 3. Organisational Culture Performance pay gives better results in organisations characterised by employee involvement and team spirit. A pro-active culture in the organisation is found to be valuable to performance and productivity. 4. Package of Monetary and Non-Monetary Incentives Performance pay is at best an element in the reward management and motivational system. Besides performance pay, it is essential to pay attention simultaneously to such aspects as re-organisation of work process, training, employee involvement and participative decision-making, opportunities to contribute ideas and knowledge, non- monetary recognition, career development and goal setting. 5. Rewarding Good Performance Rewarding good performance may include, among others, such mechanisms as cash awards, appreciation letter and certificates, training in reputed institutions, foreign travel, job enlargement and enriched roles, publicity in newsletters and membership of professional societies, etc. For higher effectiveness of performance-linked pays system, such reward mechanisms should also be used. 6. Performance Pay and Performance Management It is increasingly realised that performance is affected by a variety of factors. These factors, for instance, will include knowledge and skills which are developed through training, work attitudes and intrinsic rewards. These and other factors which affect performance are considered in the wider context of performance management and human resource management with performance pay constituting an element of it. 7. Caveats It is being increasingly realised that The performance pay systems should be designed to promote the kind of performance an organisation needs. It should, therefore, be integrated with human resource management strategy for better performance and growth of the organisation. The performance pay should underpin the organisations main values such as team work, creativity, flexibility and quality. The system should provide an impetus to and support the behaviour expected of the employees. Therefore, it must communicate to employees the type of behaviour to be rewarded and the way in which it will be rewarded. The reward system should be strengthened through re-organisation of work process and enlarged job responsibilities, training, consultation, communication and participatory system. Employees should also be consulted in the formulation of the plan. The criteria for determining performance should be objective, measurable, easily understood and related to what employees can control. The quantum of performance pay should be significant enough to be motivationally effective and its distribution should be equitable. The payment of performance pay should follow the performance as soon as possible and as frequently as possible. The performance level should be achievable; otherwise it will have a demoralising effect. The quantum of pay should be sufficiently flexible to absorb downturn and adequately reward when performance is good; it should also safeguard the minimum remuneration for the value of the job. QUESTIONS Q1. Explain what is performance-linked reward system? Q2. What are the various ways in which performance can be linked to reward system? Q3. In designing a performance-linked reward system, what considerations will you take into account? Q4.List out the various steps involved in designing a performance-linked reward system. Give an example. Q5. Examine the current issues and trends in linking performance with reward system.

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorn Essay -- revenge, chillingwort

Revenger consumes the soul of the extractor, and leaves him a shell of his former self. Revenge often leads him down an irreversible path that ultimately proves to be detrimental to him. Such acts are especially grave according to Puritan belief, which holds that vengeance belonged only to God. As a Puritan, Nathaniel Hawthorn knew about such believes, and as a master of words, a literary genius who had a deep understanding of human emotions and boundaries, he develops a story whose central theme was revenge. Hawthorne uses The Scarlet Letter to reprimand revenge as a detrimental act never allows a person to be satisfied and in the end, destroys him. He uses Chillingworth’s conversations with others to characterize Chillingworth’s radical transformation from a scholarly person to a devil whose sole purpose was to torment Dimmesdale as retribution for committing adultery with Hester. In his exposition, Chillingworth, a learned man justly demanded that his wife’s fellow sinner speak up and identify himself. This was no doubt a perfectly normal response for a man, who after being in the company of Native Americans for over three years, happens to come to the right place at the right moment to see his wife on the scaffold, humiliated by the overbearing sin of adultery. In his conversation with Hester in jail, Chillingworth made it clear that he did not intend to harm neither Hester nor Pearl. He contended that had he been a more open caring husband, and not devoted his youth to books and the pursuit of wisdom, such an incident would had never occurred. In admitting partial responsibility for Hester’s sins, Chillingworth is characterized as a humble and sagacious man, which Hawthorne employs as the peak from which he strips away Chil... ...intellectual force – seemed at once to desert him† (254). As a man whose sole purpose thereof was to extract revenge, when death moved one-step ahead of him, he had no more purpose in life, and thus too died within the year. Through an analysis of his dialogue with other characters, the reader can witness Chillingworth’s transformation from a leaned man to a vengeful demon. Hawthorne reveals the detriment of revenge, which ultimately drove Dimmesdale and Chillingworth himself to their unintended death, and condemns it as an act that only God can execute. Only Hawthorne could have conjured such an elaborate love story whose central theme is the devastating effects of revenge. This novel serves to remind people of the harmful consequences of extracting revenge without constraint, and how once a person embarked on the path of vengeance, his demise is set in stone.

Lying Is the Most Fun You Can Have Essay -- American Government, The B

The propaganda machine set up by the Bush administration channeled many lies concerning the story of Jessica Lynch. The media, in turn, played and replayed her story to excess. These numerous lies were then published in an article by the Washington Post, on which Krakauer remarks that: Thanks largely to details first revealed in this article, as well as dramatic video of the rescue distributed to the media by the Army, Jessica Lynch dominated the news for weeks. The details of the incident provided by military public affairs officers made for an absolutely riveting story that television, radio, and print journalists found irresistible: a petite blond supply clerk from a flea-speck burg in West Virginia is ambushed in Iraq and fearlessly mows down masked Fedayeen terrorists with her M16 until she runs out of ammo, whereupon she is shot, stabbed, captured, tortured, and raped before finally being snatched from her barbaric Iraqi captors during a daring raid by American commandos. (207-208) Krakauer admits that the article expresses there had been no verification of the details relating to Jessica Lynch's story, but this was largely ignored (208). It seems as though the administration was as good at covering their asses as they were at manipulating the public at large. This can be seen in the disclaimer in the article by the Washington Post. The article states that â€Å"Pentagon officials said they had heard â€Å"rumors† of Lynch's heroics but had no confirmation†(qtd. in Krakauer 208). They knew that truth about Jessica Lynch would eventually come through, and as long as the lies had their desired effect; they didn't care. The real story of what happened to Jessica Lynch is much less extreme. As Krakauer emphasize... ...t provided support for the war in Iraq and kept our troops there, the better. As illustrated by Krakauer, â€Å"Bin Laden regarded the invasion of Iraq as a tremendous gift from President Bush―a 'rare and essentially valuable' opportunity to spread jihad† and that â€Å"the American occupation was fueling Muslim rage even more than the invasion of Afghanistan had, inspiring throngs of Arab men to join the ranks for al-Qaeda† (255). The Bush administration's treatment and spinning of the stories of these heroic soldiers into a vehicle of propaganda for their own ends was abhorrent. I feel disgusted at their using of people and lies to maintain their unjust war, and their war must be indeed have been unjust if they had to go to such extremes to support it. It is tragic that the people of the United States and other countries have been subjected to this kind of betrayal.

Conflict: Science against Religion Essay

Throughout the ages science and religion have struggled with one another. They both are constantly striving to gain the upper hand against the other. Within this struggle both are trying to assert the fact that their ideas are accurate and how the others ideas are inaccurate. Science yearns to answer the questions of how things happen through the means of solid facts. Religion, on the other hand, seeks to answer the question of why things occur and its thought process is grounded in faith. Some believe that the two views are not in turmoil with one another. This thought process is extremely skewed because these two belief systems contradict one another consistently and believers of each view then struggle to prove their perspective is correct. Science and religion, â€Å"do not have the same viewpoints about the nature of the world or agree about how truth is perceived or confined† (Neese, 2001). These two ideologies are at war with one another. The issues between the two cann ot be overlooked or brushed under the rug because there are too many opposing aspects. Because of this there is no way for these two ideologies to coexist harmoniously. When science and religion have overlapping topics that attempt to answer the same questions, conflict occurs between believers of each theory. A good example of this overlap is the Evolution theory. This theory has caused controversy from its beginnings in history. Evolution, as defined by Webster’s Dictionary, is â€Å"a theory that the various types of animals and plants have their origin in other preexisting types and that the distinguishable differences are due to modifications in successive generations† (Webster, 2012). The placement of this theory in high school text books has been very controversial. Multiple court cases have been fought over the theory of evolution and its existence within public schools’ curriculum. There are cases dating back from 1968 up until present day arguing about whether this theory should be taught to students (Masamura & Mead, 2001). According to religion, God made all things. This is known as creationism. Within the creationism theory there is no margin for compromise. God made man and there is no other explanation in accordance with the creationism theory. The Theory of Evolution contradicts everything that religion is based on. The Bible says that God created the animals but he also created man. The Bible speaks nothing of God creating animals and they evolving into mankind, so the idea that religious parties could agree with the evolutionary theory and accept it is ludicrous. Regardless of whether it is acknowledged or not, science is deeming what religion believes as a lie. There is no way to avoid the turmoil that it causes by attempting to prove that God didn’t make man but instead we evolved from animals. Debates regarding where mankind comes from seems to elevate tempers and leads to arguments. History shows us that people have not agreed upon these two opinions and it has led to judicial action b ecause there could not be an agreement made about the subjects. These are not issues of the past but are still currently raging throughout society even today. It is absurd to think that the theory of creationism and the theory of evolution do not cross over into one another and create conflict. How could two views that are polar opposites possibly be agreed upon? It is a simple answer; they can and will not be agreed upon. Another argument that rages between science and religion is the argument about the approximate age of the Earth. Science believes that the Earth is billions of years old; meanwhile, religious groups believe that the Earth is approximately 10,000 years old. Scientists believe that the earth can be dated back over 4 billion years using a method of Argon-Argon dating (Robins, 2006). On the other hand religious groups use the Bible as a reference to date the earth. Science argues that their method of dating is accurate and they have found fossils that are millions of year old; yet, religion argues that â€Å"The Great Flood† trapped carbon around the fossils and therefore would negate the carbon dating process that is typically used when dating fossils (Fossil, 2011). There are drastic differences between the timeline that science has created and the one religion uses. Science relies on gathering evidence that allows a conclusion to be made about the Earth’s age; meanwhile, religion relies upon the Bible and declares nothing can be questioned because the Bible is absolute. The argument regarding the age of the Earth is definitely a continuing issue. These two viewpoints have no common ground and will continue to conflict one another. The question of why someone is a homosexual has plagued debates for years. This argument is very emotional for a lot of people. Science and religion both have very opposing views of this topic. Some scientists believe that homosexuality is linked to genetics and have been trying to locate the gene that causes someone’s homosexuality (Abrams, 2007). Yet, religious sects believe that homosexuality is a choice. Science is trying to prove that people do not choose to be gay but instead are born with the predisposition to like someone of the same gender. In religious groups this view is widely rejected because the Bible states that homosexuality is wrong, and God would not make someone more prone to â€Å"sin†. The debate regarding the origins of why someone lives the homosexual lifestyle has not fully been pinpointed in science yet but this still doesn’t calm the argument with religious groups. The fight over giving homosexuals the right to legally marry in the U.S. gives us a good example of how heated this debate actually is and how far it is from being resolved. Several states have voted to allow gay marriage while the majority of states still have not latched on to the idea due to religious backgrounds within the communities. Not as widely discussed but still a conflicting issue for science and religion is the iss ue of death. The belief in the hereafter, or lack thereof, is strongly debated among scientists and religious groups. Science does not prove or disprove the existence of anything occurring after death. Some scientists argue that the phenomenon of an out of body experience is simply the result of the brain continuing to work even though the body does not (Fitzpatrick, 2010). This discredits people’s stories of experiencing the hereafter and coming back from it. Religion gives a greater purpose in life and the ultimate goal is to spend eternity in the heavenly realm. By some scientists disregarding the possibility of a hereafter it adds to the tension that already exists between religion and science. Since science leaves for the possibility that nothing exists after we die, it doesn’t support the theory that religion does. In not supporting the idea of something existing after we die, it creates an invisible wall between science and religion and leaves room for argumentative discussions. One of the most overlooked conflicts between science and religion is the separation of the languages. There are multiple theories about how language developed and changed according to s cience. Most scientists will agree that they believe evolution played a large part in the diversity of languages. Science bases the evolution of multiple languages on people slightly changing their current dialect as they migrated to different regions. Many scientists believe that the first language was developed somewhere in Africa (Wade, 2011). Religion seeks a completely different approach to the development of the separate languages. Religion bases the changing of dialects to the event that occurred at the tower of Babel, as recorded by the Bible. The Bible says that people were joining together to build a tower to reach to heaven. God was displeased with this act so he separated the languages so the people could no longer understand one another; thus, stopping their ability to work together to build the tower (Genesis 11, KJV). These two counter ideas both answer the question of how languages evolved but in two extremely different ways. In no way are these two theologies coexisting seei ng that there are no similarities between their theories. People argue about the existing conflict between religion and science. Some argue for the presence of a conflict, while others argue that turmoil simply does not exist between the two. A man by the name of Stephen Jay Gould â€Å"referred to the non-overlapping magisterial of science and religion, with the former describing reality – what is – and the latter dealing with values – how we ought to act† (Fish, 2010). Gould argued in his book, â€Å"Rock of Ages†, â€Å"that science and religion can coexist because they occupy two separate spheres of the human experience. According to Gould, science and God are inherently divided and thus can easily co-exist in the human belief system. Science, he argues, answers questions of fact, while religion covers questions of morality† (Clark, n.d.). Many people have the same viewpoint as Gould or a similar one. This argument suggests that these two ideologies run parallel to one another, therefore there is no possible way for them to conflict. By making this kind of claim it is saying that there is a limit to what science can investigate and theorize about. If science and religion do not overlap as Gould and many others suggest, then it would box these two ideologies in and limit their topics of discussion. In reality, this can never occur. You cannot limit the topics in which both science and religion have opinions about, because this would be the only way for these two to have no overlapping viewpoints. This argument defines science and religion as being two separate entities that do not cross over into one another. This is not reality however. Whether it be creation, sexual preference, death, or the separation of languages; all of these things have obviously been delved into by both science and religion. The argument that these two approaches of doctrine exist parallel is unrealistic. If that were the case then that would mean that no topic discussed by science or religion has ever or will ever be of the same subject. As everyone knows, throughout history science and religion have undoubtedly had discussions about the same subject ma tter; thus, negating the whole basis for Gould’s argument and others who believe as he does. If logic is used and we look at both of these ways of thinking we see the drastic difference in their opinions. This leads to a dialogue about who is right and who is wrong. There is no middle ground with these conflicting views. â€Å"Science is based on verifiable facts, whereas religion rests on faith that is not amendable to verification† (Dias, 2010). These two thought processes show no similarities; therefore, they do not have common ground and cannot agree. The desire for knowledge will always be prevalent in the human race. With this obtained knowledge comes theory and with theory comes disputes. Here stems the disagreements between science and religion. The never ending feud about whose viewpoint is right is raging as strong today as it has been in the past. The conflicts encountered within these two ideologies have no end in the foreseeable future. Their methodologies keep these two polar opposites continually disputing with one another. If there is a way for science and religion to harmoniously exist with one another, society has yet to find it. There are utopian ideas that attempt to reconcile science and religions altercations but no attempt at calming this argument has been successful thus far. Albert Einstein said that â€Å"science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind,† (Neese, 2001). His statement is rather idealistic and unfortunately we do not currently live in a world where this way of thinking is widespread. No matter how good it would be for these two groups to coexist, it will never happen due to their drastically different views. Maybe in time things will progress but as for now the two remain at war with one another. References Abrams, M. (2007). BORN GAY?. Discover, 28: 58-83. Retrieved Friday, August 10, 2012 from EBSCOhost database. Clark, Josh. (n.d.) Can God and Science Co-exist? Retrieved from http://science.howstuff works.com/science-vs-myth/everyday-myths/god-science-co-exist.htm. DIAS, P. (2010). Is Science Very Different from Religion? A Polanyian Perspective. Science & Christian Belief, 22(1), 43-55. â€Å"Evolution†. (2012). In Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved August 28, 2012, from http://www. merriam-webster.com/dictionary/evolution. Fish, J. M. (2010). Science VS Religion DEBATE. Humanist,70(4), 27-31. Fitzpatrick,L. (2010). Is There Such a Things as Life After Death?. Time. Retrieved from http://www.Time.com. Fossil and Radiosiotope Dating. (2011). Retrieved August 28, 2012, from http://creationscience today.com/28-Carbon-14_Dating.html Helden, A.V. (1995). The Galileo Project. Retrieved from http://galileo.rice.edu/bio/narrative _7.html. Masamura,M. , Mead, L. (2001). Ten Major Court Cases About Evolution and Creationism. Retrieved from http://ncse.com/taking-action/ten-major-court-cases-evolution- Creationism. Neese, L. H. (2001). SCIENCE vs. RELIGION: The Challenge of Interpretation. USA Today Magazine, 130(2674), 70. Robins, M. (2006). How We Know Earth’s Age. Discover, 27(3), 22-23. Retrieved Friday, August 10, 2012 from EBSCOhost database. Wade, N. (2011). Phonetic Clues Hint Language is Africa – Born. New York Times, Retrieved from http://newyorktimes.com.

Management Genius Peter F. Drucker

Management Genius: Peter F. Drucker By Md. Faruk Hossain (Faruk) Dear reader, there are many kinds of writings, many kinds of posts, that depict different kinds of tips, suggestions, etc. But I will try here to post something different, because there are really something differences to write. Actually sometimes there exist lots of geniuses in our invisibility, but we don't know well about them though we did hear a little or knew the names of them. Today I will write about one of the best Management Genii of all time, who is Peter F. Drucker!It might keep you all in a feeling that I am trying to make you all to read management books, but Good News is that, it is not. It will be tried here to make you know because we really should know about Drucker! And if you don't believe that, then the proof will undoubtly knock you at the end of reading this post. Anyway, is this the time to start now? Well we can move on! I am not actually writing Drucker's born city, time, parents name, etc. I j ust would like to write why he is important for us, especially for business background students, because that should create more appeal.Drucker is actually much popular for his renowned book â€Å"The Practice of Management† (1954), though the world first looked at him through his â€Å"The End of Economic Man† (1939) book. The Practice of Management created some different expressions because he really put some different things there. This is a lively and forceful book. It proclaims that the manager is the dynamic, life-giving element in every business. It emphasizes the fact that management is Performance, it is Practice. In 1943 General Motors (GM) Corporation invited him to study its top management policies and organization structure.The result of this study was his book, Concept of the Corporation (1946), which turned out to be a landmark in management studies. The real subject matter of this book is social and political problems of industrial society. Drucker's ac hievements are due to his extraordinary self-discipline. His time management is superb. His energy is boundless. He has the genius to concentrate and he unflinchingly adheres to his ideals and objectives. In a sense he has been practicing management by objectives (MBO) and self-control throughout his life. He is no doubt endowed with unusual gifts, which he has cultivated to great advantage.He is also a great accomplished time manager. He works in three capacities, as consultant, professor and author. He has reserve about 100 days for consultancy and speaking work. He has no office staff! Isn? t it amazing? It is remarkable how he handles all his work by himself. He is ruthless as far as time wasters are concerned. He responds to most of his mail. Drucker takes his work seriously and expects others to do likewise. Once when he found that one of his clients, a very big fir, had not done their homework properly, he walked out of the meeting! Drucker is immensely interested in teaching and teachers. Teacher Watching? has been his major hobby over a number of years. He also worked as consultant for scores of firms throughout the world and „consulting is my laboratory? , he says. This is the source of his astonishing knowledge of the working of organizations, their technologies, their methods of management and their markets. He reads very little about management itself. He has developed his own approach to consultancy work. Now this is the time to ask question about â€Å"Why Study Drucker? † One great thing is, He raises simple questions which have profound practical implications.For instance, he once asked the chairman of a well-known firm manufacturing glass bottles, „What us your business The chairman was surprised at this elementary question. He said, „We are obviously in the business of manufacturing glass bottles.? Drucker said, „No, this is not correct. You are in the packaging business.? The reason being that glass can be rep laced by plastic, tin or cardboard, but the basic purpose is packaging. These few words of Drucker made all the difference as the firm turned over to other types of packaging and benefited greatly by it.Drucker has developed the art of raising such practical questions and providing practical guidelines for their solution. His suggestions are not ad hoc solutions based on guess work. They are based on wise experience, rigorous analysis, penetrating insight and unerring sense of practicability. To understand Drucker is to know the essentials of management. For this reason, F. C. Dyer once said about Drucker, â€Å"Whenever I pick up the writings of Drucker, I feel that I am in the presence of genius. † This is all about today? s writing.If it could make the readers happier and with useful, then again Drucker might come back here along with his lots of indispensable works, or with the similar post. At the End, we can finish our reading by simply brainstorming and looking at â₠¬Å"What we can learn from Drucker? †: ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Self-Discipline Strong Time Management Asking simple question to get flawless ourselves Self-Confident Accustomed to working alone with self-reliance Serious with work, what is relied upon Thinking more Thank you all and it is really grateful for showing your perseverance to read the whole article. Md. Faruk Hossain [email  protected] com ———————-