Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Environmental Science and Ethics: Global Warming Essay

A worldwide temperature alteration can be characterized as the ceaseless ascending of temperature of the globe. This marvel is realized by the ozone depleting substances that ascent into the environment. The gases are caught inside the environment by the sun’s vitality. The development of these gases had made the globe warm-up. National Resource Defense Council had noticed that that over the 50 years the normal worldwide temperature has expanded in a quick rate and as per researchers, this would proceed with still later on. It has been additionally investigated that normal temperature in the United States would build 3 to 9 degrees higher toward the century's end. Future forecasts from the Environmental Protection Agency of America uncover that the world would encounter progressively sweltering summers and exceptional rainstorms. As expressed over, the reason for Global Warming is the ozone harming substances. As indicated by the site, timeforchange. com, the significant common ozone depleting substances are water fume Carbon Dioxide, Methane and Ozone. At the point when daylight comes to the earth’s climate, it is assimilated and it warms the earth. A large portion of the warmth is encased in the climate at a more drawn out time than the daylight. This thusly makes the warming impact the world over. The ozone depleting substances acts like a reflector of warmth radiation to the Earth’s climate. Examination of specialists show that the higher the centralization of ozone harming substances, the higher would be the warmth reflected to the Earth’s air. The National Resource Defense Council (NRDC) shows that Carbon Dioxide is one of the significant givers of the nursery impact in the climate which causes around 9 to 26%. Coal consuming force plants are expressed as the biggest wellspring of Carbon Dioxide in the United States. Carbon Dioxide delivered each year is 2. 5 billion tons consistently. Cars are the second biggest source which produces 1. 5 billion tons consistently. In view of measurements from NRDC, the biggest wellspring of a dangerous atmospheric devation contamination is the United States. Making a proportion and extent assessment, Americans are 4 percent of the world’s populace. Be that as it may, the United States contributes 25% of the Carbon Dioxide contamination in the environment. Looking at numbers, 4% of the individuals in the globe produce a fourth of the contaminations. This lone shows that control is essential in this specific territory. Further exploring the marvel, there are four significant impacts of Global Warming. These are atmosphere design changes, wellbeing impacts, warming water and biological system interruption. Normal hotter temperatures ascends subsequently, the recurrence of warmth waves rises. The likelihood of having dry season and fierce blaze likewise increments. The hotter temperature results to a higher pace of vanishing during the periods of summer and fall. As proof, there has been a recorded dry season in the years 1999 to 2002. This has been noted as one of the across the board dry seasons over the most recent 40 years. Another is that the Firefighting uses have reliably expanded by $1 billion every year. Warmed atmospheres cause heat waves and the warmth waves bring about warmth related passings. In the year 2003, a gauge of 35,000 lives were guaranteed by heat waves in Europe. It very well may be additionally noticed that the temperature had arrived at 104 degrees Fahrenheit and the temperature had not changed for about fourteen days. Beside the warmth waves, the warmth had additionally caused expanded in weed development wherein the dust triggers sensitivities and causes asthma. Mosquitoes can additionally endure due to the expansion in temperature. Mosquitoes carryng dengue infections and Malaria can get by in heights as high as 7,200 feet in Colombia. The warming of water had caused all the more impressive and hazardous tropical storms as indicated by the NRDC. As clarified by the board, hotter water in the seas drives more vitality into hurricanes. This thusly makes the tempests become increasingly damaging and exceptional. As proof, the quantity of tempests inside the classification of 4 and 5 had expanded over the most recent 35 years. The 2005 Atlantic tropical storm season had demonstrated a record of 27 tempests where 15 of the tempests had become typhoons. Another is Hurricane Katrina that had occurred in the year 2005. The softening of ice sheets and ice defrost is likewise an impact of the warming water. Ski Resorts in the Alps according to Cline (2005) had every single expanded height and some ski resorts ought not be opened in view of the line of snow dependability had expanded. Further height of snow is required so as to work a ski resort. The Ecosystem movements and a portion of the animal categories bite the dust. Because of the hotter temperature, a portion of the animal varieties in the biological system kick the bucket on the grounds that the species can't receive to the hotter atmosphere. According to NRDC, there are more than one million animal types that would be terminated in the year 2050 due to a dangerous atmospheric devation. The most potential environments that would be influenced are thouse in the Alps, the tropical mountains and the mangrove timberlands. The hotter temperature and ascend in the ocean level would not have the option to help the biological systems sooner rather than later. There had been a few arrangements that had been a few arrangements that had been counted by the National Resource Defense Council. These are to spare vitality utilizing apparatuses that has the vitality star level on it. By having the option to spare vitality, this may have an impact in the vitality created by the coal consuming force plants. Another conceivable arrangement is the change of vehicles which are the second biggest supporter of the ozone depleting substances. The fuel consuming models of to-date would be altered by the power device innovation vehicles that would be presented in the following twenty years. This doesn't just concern vehicles yet in addition airplanes. There has been an investigation from the NRDC that the carrier business looks for data on green growth based fuel and biobutanol, which can be produced using sugar, beets, corn, wheat and straw. Last arrangement that can be noted in the report of the NRDC is the covering of coal underground. The United States is seeing future possibilities of changing over coal into an unmistakable consuming gas and catching Carbon Dioxide. The Carbon Dioxide would then be covered underground to keep it from being discharged to the air. Taking a gander at the impacts of the an Earth-wide temperature boost to the earth, it is just option to have laws and further research the issue. Notwithstanding, there are some who utilize this worldwide marvel as a way to pick up notoriety, cash, awards and chances for a superior life. Driessen (2007) had demonstrated the various edges that can be shown as a result of the a dangerous atmospheric devation wonder. The primary subject of his article shows that the issue of a worldwide temperature alteration had caused alert anyway it had likewise helped delivered money related and political motivating forces. It has been appeared in the article that the a few researchers had utilized the investigation of a worldwide temperature alteration to improve their odds of getting research awards and establishments in organizations, establishments and the legislature. Legislators gain certifications since they had placed in enthusiasm for a worldwide temperature alteration. They had put their pork barrels into ventures that would advance moral planetary insurance. Driessen (2007) had focused on that corporate duty was advanced by certain government officials. There are a few activities that should be nullified yet rather are commended by the individuals on the grounds that the outcomes of moves that had been made by the lawmakers are not appeared at present. The impacts of their activities must be found over the long haul. The lawmakers had solidified their associations with the earthy people in view of the natural security extends that they had ascribed in lieu of an unnatural weather change. Another gathering that had profited by the an Earth-wide temperature boost marvel are the earthy people. Driessen (2007) had observed the control of the natural activists that had driven them to utilize the a worldwide temperature alteration circumstance to raise reserves. It had become a system for these gatherings to have power over a worldwide asset using laws, settlements, guideline and weight battles. Ecological Defense of the legislature had accused the warming of the earth to the circumstance achieved by the expanding instances of ailment, for example, jungle fever. Seeing this point intently, the natural guard could have made preventive estimates like fumigation so as to slaughter the mosquitoes that cause these infections as opposed to accusing the atmosphere. There are likewise a few organizations that may utilize the circumstance to additionally publicize their item which shows a personal responsibility in the business. As indicated by an issue in New York Times by Revkin last 2005, the Bush Administration had made a few documentations on the notes about the atmosphere changes. It was appeared in the article that few authorities in the administration had controlled the information about the atmosphere due to the way that America has been demonstrating an exceptionally enormous commitment in the an unnatural weather change wonder. So as to conceal any hint of failure, the administration had attempted to change the readings in the atmosphere. In this manner, there were a few occurrences that showed that these were concealed by the administration authorities in the white house. Morally, as occupants of the Earth, the individuals must focus on taking care of the issue of an Earth-wide temperature boost and not on concentrating on things that are only for appear. Some may show that they are doing a specific thing to spare the planet however on the off chance that the deed is dissected all the more intently, it was being done so as to profit on what they can escape the individuals who might accept on their activities. An unnatural weather change is an intense theme and it needs every person’s collaboration so as to take care of things. Having the option to make activities and exploration that help examine an unnatural weather change isn't sufficient. What is significant in the issue of Global Warming is the activities that every single one would never really additionally harm of the marvel to the earth. REFERENCES Revkin, A. (2005). Shrubbery Aide Softened Greenhouse Gas Links to Globa

Saturday, August 22, 2020

Martin Gansberg Thirty-Eight Who Saw Murder and Didn’t Call the Police Essay

The article by Martin Gansberg, Thirty-eight who saw murder and didn’t call the police, is about a confined occasion. I don’t think something like this happens a great deal. Ordinarily individuals would call the police or plan something for help the person in question. Yet, shockingly once in a while people can be freezing or even brutal, as for this situation. A few people just don’t care about what is happening around them, on the off chance that somebody needs assistance or some participation. It’s increasingly common for the individuals who live in huge urban areas in light of the fact that in a bustling urban life, in the group current they don’t have an opportunity to stop and dissect what might be the correct activity and they just don’t need to get included and put themselves in inconveniences. In modest communities individuals are increasingly responsive, and the circumstance like this would less inclined to occur. Something else that is influent is wrongdoing and viciousness scenes that individuals continually observe on TV, web, films. Individuals becoming acclimated to seeing that on television all the time, all things considered, see it like another show and simply watch with no activity and some of them even get amped up for how it’s all going to end. Fortunately I have never been in circumstance when I needed to report a wrongdoing in progress, however I know whether something happens I won't remain there and watch. Also, ideally I will never get in circumstance when I’m the person who needs assistance and nobody makes a difference. The initial line of the Martin Gansberg’s article â€Å"Thirty-eight who saw murder and didn’t call the police† states: â€Å" For the greater part an hour 38 good, decent residents in Queens viewed an exceptional tail and wound a lady in three separate assaults in Kew Gardens. † But it doesn’t imply that they were remaining around like in field viewing the executioner butchering a casualty from the earliest starting point as far as possible. The creator utilizes little embellishment to perform what occurred. It may not be the reality however it communicates author’s position. It shows how furious and disillusioned he is, it shows his judgment. In spite of the fact that scholars, particularly correspondents, have a moral obligation to be exact, little misrepresentation and bending can have a spot, what can help creator to communicate their position and their perspective. What makes a difference is the thing that precisely and what amount has been twisted. For instance, article says that the executioner made three endeavors to slaughter the lady. On the off chance that surely the casualty passed on from the principal endeavor and the executioner pursue away that, however creator changed the story to make it increasingly sensational, that would be intense bending of the story.

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Problems in Decision-Making

Problems in Decision-Making Inspiration Print Problems in Decision-Making By Kendra Cherry facebook twitter Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author, educational consultant, and speaker focused on helping students learn about psychology. Learn about our editorial policy Kendra Cherry Updated on April 25, 2019 Portra Images / Getty Images More in Self-Improvement Inspiration Happiness Meditation Stress Management Spirituality Holistic Health Brain Health Technology Relationships View All Each and every day we are faced with a multitude of decisions. Some of these are relatively small, such as deciding what to wear or what to have for breakfast. Others are big and can have a major influence on the course of our life, such as deciding where to go to school or whether to have children. Some decisions take time  while others must be made in a split-second. While we employ a number of different decision-making strategies, we also often fall prey to a number of common fallacies, biases, and other decision-making problems. Discover which decision-making mistakes and obstacles might be influencing the choices you make each and every day. Heuristics Decision-making problems are often the result of relying too heavily on mental shortcuts that have worked in the past. A heuristic is a sort of mental shortcut or rule of thumb that we utilize when making a judgment or decision. These heuristics help to lighten the mental load when we make choices, but they can also lead to errors. Heuristics come with a couple of major advantages. First, they allow us to reach conclusions quickly. Second, heuristics also tend to work quite frequently. But as with all kinds of shortcuts, they can sometimes have disadvantages. They can sometimes lead us to make mistakes and misjudge situations. Two common types of mental shortcuts are: The Representativeness Heuristic: This involves judging the probability of an event based upon how similar it is to our existing prototype of such an event. For example, gamblers often judge the probability that they will win their next game based on whether or not they won the last game. In reality, the games are not dependent upon each other and winning or losing is entirely up to chance.The Availability Heuristic: This involves judging the likelihood of an event based upon how quickly we can call similar events to mind. For example, you might believe that plane crashes are more common than they really are simply because you can quickly think of several examples of high profile airplane accidents. Overconfidence Another problem that can impact decision-making is our tendency to overestimate our own knowledge, skill, or judgment. In a classic experiment looking at this phenomenon, researchers Baruch Fischhoff, Paul Slovic, and Sarah Lichtenstein gave participants a variety of statements that had two different answers. Participants were asked to select the answer they believed was correct and then rate how confident they were in their answers. When people stated that they were 100% confident in their answers, they were only correct about 80% of the time. So why do people tend to be overconfident in their judgments? In a lot of cases, people might not realize how uninformed they are about a particular subject. Essentially, we dont know what we dont know.In other cases, the information we have about a particular topic might simply be wrong or it might come from unreliable sources. One example of this overconfidence is a type of cognitive bias known as the Dunning-Kruger effect. This bias causes people to overestimate their own intelligence and abilities, essentially blinding them to their own incompetence. No matter what the cause, this tendency to overestimate our own knowledge can lead to poor decisions. Imagine that you are traveling to Las Vegas with a friend. Youve been there a couple of times before so you assume that you know the route you should take and you instruct your friend to take a particular exit that you believe is the correct one. Unfortunately, you misremembered the route and the exit turns out to be the wrong one. Your overconfidence in your ability to navigate the route led to the wrong choice and added considerable time on to your journey. Hindsight Bias After something has happened, do you ever look back on the event and feel like you should have known what the outcome would be? In psychology, this tendency to look back retrospectively and easily spot all the signs leading up to a particular outcome is known as the hindsight bias. Sometimes referred to as the I-knew-it-all-along phenomenon, this tendency can lead us to believe that we can actually predict consequences in situations that are really dependent upon chance. For example, a gambler might mistakenly believe that they can accurately predict the outcome of a game of cards. In reality, there is no way that he can know what will happen  since the game is based upon probability. The hindsight bias can cause problems when it leads you to believe that you should have been able to foresee the outcome of situations that really werent that predictable. As a result, you might make future decisions based on the information you learned from past mistakes. Rather than relying on factors related to the present situation, you might find yourself trying to guess the outcome based upon other, possibly unrelated experiences. Illusory Correlation When making decisions, we sometimes see relationships that do not really exist. For example, we might believe that two unrelated events have some type of relationship simply because they occurred around the same time. In other cases, a one-time association between two different variables might lead us to assume that the two are somehow connected. For example, if you have a bad experience with a rude waitress, you might mistakenly believe that all waitresses are rude. This tendency to see relationships where none exist is known in psychology as an illusory correlation. In addition to leading to faulty beliefs, illusory correlations can also cause problems in the decision-making process. For example, imagine that you are interested in getting a new pet but you are not sure which type of pet you might want. A bad childhood experience with a dog might lead you to hold the mistaken belief that all dogs are aggressive and tend to bite. This can influence you as you make your choices about which pet to get, and might lead you to reject getting a puppy even though a dog would likely make a great pet for you. A Word From Verywell While we all like to believe that we make our choices based on logic and rationality, the fact is that there are a number of decision-making problems that can complicate this process. Being aware of some of these potential pitfalls might help you make better decisions in the future.

Sunday, May 24, 2020

Who Is The American Civil War - 1245 Words

When an United States citizen is asked about the American Civil War, their first thought is usually about how the Union and Confederacy fought over whether man should or should not have the right to own slaves. While this issue was the main cause and the biggest factor that led to the American Civil War, it is not the only cause or factor. In Jeffery Dixon’s article, What Causes Civil Wars? There are two other big issue that cause counties to go war against each other. Those two other issues are; economy and geography. Civil Wars are fought over what land belongs to who and what is the best way to spend and receive money. The other two factors they would help eventually lead to the American Civil War are Protectionism and the crisis over†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"The most widely accepted relationship between economic factors and civil war is that high-income nations are less likely to experience civil wars than low-income nations.† (Dixon 714). The disagreeme nts over how to spend money and tax imported goods, and how territories should be distributed, cause this one nation to fight against each other. The second factor that led to the American Civil War is the fight over new land. With obtaining new states let it be from buying them, negotiating for it, or full out taking over land from other countries, there was always the question of whether those states would be entered into the country as free states or slave states? The new land had been distributed equally between the free states and the slave states, but there was still fighting over the territories west of the Mississippi. Northern Mexico and California had been taken over by the United States kin 1848, and any states that were proslavery states wanted to expand their land and have more that were slaveholding states. The North did not want more slave holding states, they wanted to limit the increase of territory that was proslavery and to also limit the power proslavery states possessed. The American Civil was about more than if humans should have to right to own other human beings. It was also a fight over how money should be spent and imported and exported goods taxed; as well as how new land should be distributed. The South was benefitingShow MoreRelatedThe American Civil War, Wars, And Rumors Of Wars1183 Words   |  5 PagesThe American Civil War Wars, Wars and rumors of wars!!!! Everyone knows the United States has had its fair share of wars. Let me start by giving you a brief list of wars the United States has participated in according to Wikipedia. Both â€Å"Barbary Wars (1801-1805, 1815-1816), Wars of 1812, Mexican-American War (1846-48), American Civil War (1861-65), Indian War (1865-91), Spanish-American War( 1898), Philippine-American War (1899-1902) Border War(Mexican Revolutionary)1910-1919, World War I (1917-18)Read MoreThe Civil War And American History890 Words   |  4 Pages In American History many significant events took place that reflected religious faith of multiple Americans and has shaped the world we live in today. Throughout the 1800s, the most memorable times in America took place throughout the Civil War. Events that escalated before, during and even following the Civil War resulted in a chain of reactions from many people within that period. After analyzing the events of the Civil War, I was able to draw a connection to the actions of the soldiers, womenRead MoreNative American in the Civial War1380 Words   |  6 PagesNative Americans in the Civil War The American Civil War was fought between the Unions, from the northern region of America, and the Confederacy, from the southern region of America. A war that was started because of slavery and fought between western europeans and incidentally people who live on the land such as Native American. The battles fought were all over the land in America. So, if a territory was on the land, then the people who lived there would inevitably get involved with the war. BattlesRead MoreWhat Caused The American Civil War1634 Words   |  7 PagesWhat caused the American Civil War from 1861 to 1865? There has been several different debates and disputes about the causes of the American Civil War. Historians have stated slavery was the primary cause of the American Civil War, while other historians have argued there were other causes and effects in conjunction with slavery. Research has shown all historians did agree upon the division between the North, known as the Union, and the South, known as the Confederacy, battled on the soil of theRead MoreUnderstanding The Civil War1710 Words   |  7 Pages Civil War Chris Cowan HIS/155 November 11, 2015 Civil War Understanding the Civil War is very important, to understand the way America has been shaped through out the past couple of centuries. Shelby Foote, a historian, believed that the Civil War defines the people in America. The Civil War was a war involving the North (The Union) and the South (The Confederates) who had different points of view over whether or not slavery was justified. Ultimately around 600,000 Americans lost theirRead MoreAfrican Americans During The Civil War1423 Words   |  6 PagesAfrican Americans were a very important addition to the American Civil War such as fighting and spying for both the north and the south sides. The American Civil War was a war fought in the United States between the North and South states. The war was from 1861-1865 and was because the South wanted to establish itself as a separate nation. The northern states were called the Union and the southern states were called the Confederate. Between the north and south states were the Border Stat es, whichRead MoreThe Battle Of The American Civil War905 Words   |  4 PagesThe American Civil war occurred about seventy-eight years after the American Revolution, and has many of the same characteristics of a revolution. In both wars, the American people fought for what they believed in and the way of life that they wished to live. However, the two wars differ from each other, as the soldiers that fought in the Civil War fought a new American Revolution that could have split the new world. The Confederate soldiers in the Civil War fought to keep their way of life withoutRead MoreIn What Way the African Americans Shaped the Course and Consequences of the Civil War? Confine Your Answer to the Years from 1861 and 1870.1038 Words   |  5 PagesIn what way the African Americans shaped the course and consequences of the Civil War? Confine your answer to the years from 1861 and 1870. Immediately after the election and inauguration of Abraham Lincoln, the newly-established Republican Party’s presidential nominee, eleven states of the South seceded from the Union. These events marked the beginning of the Civil War and the war was a result of many political tensions that had emerged between the North and the South in the prior decades, allRead MoreSlavery And The Civil War1706 Words   |  7 PagesAbraham Lincoln once said, â€Å"A house divided against itself cannot stand.† In the 1800s, the American nation was slowly becoming a house divided against itself. The United States were no longer united, mainly over the issue of slavery. In fact, many historians believe that, â€Å"From the nation’s founding, the issue of slavery threatened to tear the United States apart.† (â€Å"The Civil War† 1). The issue of slavery was always kept at bay through the utilization of various compromises; however a permanentRead MoreThe American Civi l War1418 Words   |  6 PagesGuns fired, smoke lingering in the air, people dying. The American Civil War had a huge impact on the United States. Two compromises took place before the start of the Civil War. These compromises include the Missouri Compromise and the Compromise of 1850. The Missouri Compromise dealt with the crisis in 1819 over Missouri entering the Union as a slave state. The compromise was â€Å"the first major crisis over slavery, and it shattered a tacit agreement between the two regions that had been in place

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

English Literature Free Essays

Causing the Rising in altitude though Create their While slicing lives for Thus only stumps appear Give birth to yourself; don’t wait for a mid-wife I know that everybody dies; we know that not everybody lives Can’t be done thinking thanks; still holding to the green leaves I haven’t made it yet; still have hopes to make it in future Nobody knows tomorrow; the things to happen, we only hope to picture What they take for granted today seemed Impossible yesterday, to structure I want to be used for a greater purpose; far way bigger than myself Life Is good; I want It to be deter for l, Me and Myself. I wrote a letter to time, asking him for more time The things I hope to accomplish in future is enormous; I need more than time Checks and balances; everything being equal, my life is balanced Heard equality is unattainable; many still feed on diets that are not balanced Could it be that life is not fair to some people? Is it then dark? So far there is life, there is hope; this is beyond the slate minds that are blank Imitation is limitation I heard; Am so busy trying to make my own impression My impressions will be baseless If I don’t conquer the limits f my limitation Thank God for the gift of life; be happy and free to live your God- giving life Life Is good; Yes! It will be better for all have life and still strife. The future Is so competitive; I have the best In anticipation To the best of memory; All in the past has been solidification of the foundation I pray, the temple of my life your life; let no pirate sail above You are in charge, take control of your ship and sail against the tides of the sea With a focused third eye; all that you seek to look, you will surely see These walls don’t keep a secret; Am obsessed with life, want to keep living . We will write a custom essay sample on English Literature or any similar topic only for you Order Now How to cite English Literature, Papers English Literature Free Essays 1. Test-Theodore Thomas By P. Baburaj, Senior Lecturer, Dept. We will write a custom essay sample on English Literature or any similar topic only for you Order Now of English, Sherubtse college, Bhutan Author of: Language and writing, DSB Publication Thimphu Communicative English, P. K. Books, Calicut A perception on Literary Criticism, P. K. Books, Calicut ? A fantasy ? Story takes place in an advanced form of hypnosis In simple level the protagonist-Robert Proctor behaves responsibly but he is denied the license. The story is futuristic. ? Contains the elements of a science fiction. ? Uses technical and scientific facts. Science fiction A broad genre of fiction that often involves speculation based on current/future science and technology. It is a fiction based on futuristic science. A form of fiction normally set in future that deals with an imaginary scientific or technological development. It is a kind of writing in any literary piece through science background but not necessary that everything written can be based on facts. The writing includes science but it is not a real thing, just an imagination/imaginative work presented through science. Features of science fiction Based on technology and science. Related article: Short Story Woman Unknown by Rabindranath Tagore Futuristic (making prediction about life in future) * Make believe the reader. Examples ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Too badIsaac Asimov. Robert- Isaac Asimov. Test- Theodore Thomas. Mirror ImageLena Coakley. All summer in a dayRay Brad Ben. ‘The Test’ is a Mixture of action stories and realism. The story explores the theme of the ethics of the power of the state to ‘control’ its citizens. -Individual versus state. ? Short and direct sentences are used to maintain the pace of action (esp. during the accident scene). ? Story shows how writers are using sentence length to create mood. Short sentences create a sense of tension, urgency and fast action. ? Longer sentences-slow the pace and create a more thoughtful environment. ? Story has two plots-in two different times or two different states of mind. 1) Accident (Hypnotizing) 2) Action in the testing centre The story brings an interesting platform for discussion of the individual rights and rights of the state. The story is an attack on all forms of totalitarian or authoritarian forms of government which harness individual freedom and identity. ? Citizen under such governments becomes mere ‘cog’ in the wheel. â€Å"Men are born free but always in chain†- Jean Jacque Rousseau Chain of religion, cast, region, wealth all these come in the way to check our innate freedom. Thus men are â€Å"Robert Proctors†. Even though Robert Proctor meets with an accident in the state of hypnotism but he behaves responsibly, but at the end fails miserably. Emotions expressed here are true but the incident that he imagines never takes place. ? Story is about humanities need for power-power to control others ideas/opinions/self identity, through totalitarian governments control because of fear that something may happen. Test is derived from the fear of diversification and self identity. ? The foundation of the world is based on ‘control’. Hypnotism itself is a form of control. Symbo ls ? Blue uniform-police and government’s dominance over modern citizen. ? Robert Proctor-being watched throughout, recorded and observed all his actions. ? ‘Big brother’ (authority) always watching him (citizen) Modern man has been observed like a rabbit or a rat in the experiments-unable to show ones identity and individuality. This is the dilemma of modern man under the totalitarian form of govt. govt. cts like a dictator. By P. Baburaj, Senior Lecturer, Dept. of English, Sherubtse college, Bhutan ? White uniform- experimentalist in the laboratory. Our ability to take wise decision is checked and controlled every time. Modern men under authoritarian government are treated like rats and rabbits under experiments in the laboratory. ? They are living in a hypnotic nausea. their life is like a dream under authoritarian. So they are negated of their reality and unable to live in the world of reality. ? Reality of life is always negated and rejected. Reality of life they forget or unaware. So story reminds them the power comes with all its might. ? Story reminds us ‘man is born free but he is everywhere in chain’ no one is happy to live in cages even if it is made out of gold. ‘How can the bird that is born for joy sit in a cage and sing’ we should not allow anyone to suppress our innate freedom and ability. Conflicts ? Ethical/emotional/physical character is most alien. ? Can comment on important issues in societies Setting 1. -Is on the turn-pike road on a cool morning in May. 2. In the testing centre where Robert Proctor is hypnotized by officials. Content The totalitarian Govt. ppears like a dictator in a way that completely destroys the human diversity. Diversity (diversification) is what makes this world, an amusing and interesting place to live in, without diversification- people of different races, religion, regional background life would be boring and dull. People should raise their ideas and opinions, all th ese opinions are to be tolerated, constructive criticism should be allowed. No one should escape from criticism. -bear all criticism with patience. If our varied ideas and opinions are taken away from us, we would end up our life like Robert Proctor. Slowly we will be transformed as automaton and compelled to live a slavish life of obedience that will be the end of all our free thinking and individuality. â€Å"Test†-the story reminds us this noble concept. By P. Baburaj, Senior Lecturer, Dept. of English, Sherubtse college, Bhutan (A model essay) Theodore Thomas, one of the vigilant writers, tries to explore the idea that one must come out of one’s shell letting the prevailing dormant dreams to germinate into reality. He shatters the totalitarian form of government through the story titled â€Å"TEST†. He provokes the true image of the modern citizen with his true prophetic writing. ‘Test’ is a fantasy in an advanced form of hypnosis. The story is futuristic and comprises the elements of science fiction. However, the story tries to explore the theme of the ethics of the power of the state to â€Å"control† its citizen. ‘Test’ is a mixture of action stories and realism whereby the story mainly focuses on humanities need for power, the power to control others ideas/opinions /self identity through government’s control because of the fear that something may happen. The protagonist, Robert Proctor, though being a good driver, came for applying for the driving license. However, he was made to undergo hypnosis where he had an experience of an accident. But as he opened his eyes and was out of the hypnotic effect the officials refused to provide him with the license as he made an accident. But instead he was dragged out of the room without a feeling of mercy on his situation. Basically they hypnotized Robert Proctor to lower his selfconfidence and prove that he’s not at all worthy to be a driver. They did so, to harness is individuality because of the fear of getting diversified. The story which is derived from the fear of diversification and self-identity reveals the fact that modern citizen is a cog in the wheel under the totalitarian form of government. He is not provided any privilege to explore his emotions and feelings. The foundation of the world is based on â€Å"control† where authoritarian always tries to maintain conformity among its citizens. People under authoritarian are living in a hypnotic nausea where their ability to make wise decision is checked and controlled. The modern citizens are no better than a rabbit or rat in the experiments. The charming wishes of modern men is crushed and injured by the policies that ‘big brothers’ implement on him. He is never provided any liberty to raise his head so that he can create a free society. The story is really relevant in the pretext of the recent developments in countries like Libya, Egypt and Oman. The realities of modern men are always suppressed. He is being watched thoroughly; all his actions are recorded and observed. Robert Proctor is like a rat or rabbit in the experiments. If he or she shares his or her opinion, the totalitarian government is ever ready to shut him or her down. Story reminds us the power comes with all its might. The time has come for us to teach the totalitarian government to suck the eggs in order to regain the lost liberty. people under authoritarian need to keep their nose to the grind stone and fight. We should remember man is born free but he is everywhere in chain. No one is glad to live in cages even if it is made out of gold. The suppressed must rise from ashes and pave the way better for their generations to come. Thus, what they have to do is to find a key for the locked cage. And they are sure that in the long run, they become victorious in their life and become inseparable from free birds. Luckily we the people of Bhutan enjoying a life of Gross National Happiness and let us sing the praise of it in now and in coming time. By P. Baburaj, Senior Lecturer, Dept. of English, Sherubtse college, Bhutan. How to cite English Literature, Essay examples

Monday, May 4, 2020

Carlsberg free essay sample

The firm specialized in businesses turnarounds and reviving distress businesses in the past decades. At this month’s meeting, David’s boss, Robert Stanley had voiced out his concerns about the amount of time taken to resolve their cases. He mentioned that although their overall business is considered profitable, but the firm’s cash inflow had become irregular considering the nature of their business. In order to be sustainable, Mr. Stanley suggested that they start looking into proposing schemes to cash-rich firms that wanted to expand, diversify or venture into profitable businesses. David, who was anxious to prove himself, readily took up the challenge when he was offered the task of pioneering the move. David immediately remembered reading somewhere that the beer and stout industries was at crossroads because of high excise duties in Malaysia. Therefore, he began his research on the industry and came up with some preliminary findings: 1. Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad (Carlsberg) was a market leader with more than a 50% share of the beer and stout market. We will write a custom essay sample on Carlsberg or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page . Incorporated in 1961, Carlsberg began brewing Carlsberg Green Label Beer for the Malaysian market 2 years later. 3. Over the years, Carlsberg led the beer market in innovation, quality and product launches and campaigns. 4. Carlsberg held no less than 12 products of beer and shandy, was 51% owned by the Carlsberg group of Denmark and listed on Main Board of Bursa Malaysia, locally marketing its products via 100%v subsidiary in Carlsberg Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. 5. Since its operations, the company was able to enjoy sustainable profits, an increase from RM 14 million in 1977 to RM 138 million in 1999. . Even when profits declined, it still maintained a respectable RM 76 million in 2008. 7. Carlsberg always rewarded its shareholders well regardless of the fluctuating profits over the years. It was able to keep a stable dividend yield policy. Its dividend payments had exceeded its net profit over 7 straight years. 8. In 2008, Maybank Investment Bank analysts had reported that Carlsberg’s main competitor, Guinness Anchor Berhads (GAB) gradual gain in market share has eventually dominated the Malaysian Brewery industry. . However, Carlsberg’s Managing Director (MD), Soren Holm Jasen confidently quoted that they were on track of achieving favorable earnings for the coming year. He also added that the newly acquired Carlsberg Singapore would boost the company’s earnings by 40% 50%. THE ISSUES 1. The incurring of excise duties and taxes that accounted for more than half of the cost for a typical beer company in Malaysia. These include: a. Excise duties and ad valorem tax (49. 6%) b. Sales, distributions and administration (19. %) c. Raw materials and packaging costs (13. 1%) d. Employees costs (5. 5%) e. Depreciation (2. 2%) f. Corporation tax (2. 6%) 2. As reported in The Star on 29 July 2009, the beer and stout industry was facing tough times with the pending hike in excise duties and taxes which were on gradual increase, being the highest in Asia and second highest in the world. 3. It has been estimated that an increase in excise duties and taxes between 5% and 25% would reduce per capita consumption further by 7% to 21%. 4. Due to this increase acting as the main limiting factor, Malaysian beer and stout market has reached saturation point. 5. Carlsberg’s main competitor, GAB shares the same issue as well. THE SOLUTIONS 1. Since there is not much of a prospect for expansion in the market, a promising alternative for Carlsberg and GAB is diversification. 2. David recognized Carlsberg’s strength in its brewery operations and its bottling and marketing forces. Therefore, he saw the alternative in bottling and marketing of non-alcoholic beverages where the company can venture into a much larger market in Malaysia. 3. After analyzing Carlsberg’s and GAB’s 2008 annual reports, David was confident that his idea of manufacturing sparkling grape juice under a â€Å"Halal† brand to Carlsberg could be sold. 4. David was well aware about the successful launch of the non-alcoholic â€Å"Guinness Maltase† by Guinness many years ago. 5. He also considered a route-map to list the new company in Bursa Malaysia within the shortest time frame. 6. Based on his research, David estimated that a carbonated beverage operation under a wholly-owned subsidiary would require an investment of RM 200 million where the internal rate of return would be a likely 12%.

Monday, March 30, 2020

The Rise of China

Abstract China’s swift rise in economic and political supremacy is considered among the most significant changes of the past three decades. The paper examines three research papers on China’s rise to political and economic dominance. The paper also scrutinizes research questions in each of the articles and establishes their validity.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Rise of China specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The paper also explores role, limitation and interpretation of hypothesis testing in quantitative and qualitative research. Analysis from all the three research papers shows that China’s spiral growth and influence will continue and even surpass the United States. However, this will depend on China’s ability to manage both domestic and international challenges. Introduction Rapid rise in china’s political and economic strength in the last three decades has cr eated applause and uproar at the same time. The country’s vast population and territory had made it a potential powerhouse for centuries. However, China’s potential was not realised until the 1980s when they embarked on an ambitious program aimed at revitalizing its economy. While a section of the world has praised China for its rise in the global arena, others have grown sceptical of its methodologies of attaining global rise. In particular, the United States has been sceptical of china’s financial techniques utilized to manipulate the market (Altbach Wang, 2012). It is quite evident that China has been utilizing currency manipulation techniques to keep its economy afloat. This paper will utilize both qualitative and quantitative analysis to identify possible dangers of the fall of Chinese economy to the world. Moreover, the paper will explore the effects of China’s rise on the U.S. (Chellaney, 2012). Literature Review and Analysis China’s past t remendous growth is currently facing huge upheavals as it tries to balance its economy. On the other hand, its economic turmoil is also affecting the global economy because of its large share in international market. In addition, China’s its political decisions have also attracted criticism from world powers like the EU and the US. The Rise of China and the Future of the West The article above talks about China’s economic and political rise as well as its effects on western powers (Ikenberry, 2008). The author introduces hypothesis on whether the liberal system will survive. The article describes extraordinary economic growth that has defined China for the past three decades. Moreover, it entrenches on the diplomatic influence China has gained since its growth started. However, the author brings in a number of research questions on effects of China’s dominance.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get y our first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For instance, he asks whether China’s rise will bring about a new order or if China will join the existing order. According to the author, Western order is quite easy to join than to overturn. In essence, if China has to create a new order, then it has a huge obstacle to overcome. According to Ikenberry, the United States created a farsighted leadership that integrated newly sovereign with established powers. In addition, its leadership brought global membership together as well as creating universal institutions that brought market societies and global democracies together. The author establishes that it would be difficult for China to overturn the existing world order (Ikenberry, 2008). The author also reminds the United States that it has the mandate to define the environment in which China operates. Moreover, he alludes that the United States must strengthen institutions that underpin the western order. The article outlines that the United States should give China incentives for integration to increase western order’s chances of survival. Later on, he asserts that if the struggle is between China and the United States, the former will win but if the struggle is between China and the Western system, the latter will triumph. The author uses data to back up his assertions that China is rising at a dramatic pace. For instance, the article shows that China had more than one trillion dollars as foreign reserves by the end of 2006. Moreover, the country’s military spending had increased to 18% with its diplomatic reach extending beyond Asia to Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. Additionally, the article articulates an important debate on China’s power since it is emerging as both an economical and a military power as opposed to Soviet Union, which only posed military opposition to the United States. With that, the article concurs that China’s rise poses a greater threat th an that posed by the USSR. The article gives a conclusive review of the strengths of western order including its rules and norms, which have enabled it to gain dominance. OECD projections show that China’s PPP will surpass the United States’ PPP by 2025. However, the same modelling shows that China’s defence expenditure, as a percentage of GDP will not surpass that of the United States by 2030. The article concludes that the U.S. cannot stop china’s rise although it can define the environment that China operates. Research question is detailed to support research objectives as provided in the article (Ikenberry, 2008).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Rise of China specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The Rise of China and the Interests of the United States The article by Carl Minzner provides a comprehensive scrutiny of China’s global emergence and its effects on US int erests. The article begins by reviewing the grinding Iraq war, which dominates the U.S politics. However, it goes right into context of the issue facing international politics, which is China’s steady rise. The author asserts that China’s growth is natural which conflicts most analysts views. It mentions the huge population of China at about 1.3 billion, which has experienced rapid growth over the past three decades. Moreover, the author claims that China’s expected rise would change the current geopolitical system that the United States has enjoyed for the past few decades. In fact, the author concurs that China’s dominance is not a matter of if but when, therefore, the United States should find ways of adapting to the expected global changes. Additionally, the article examines domestic issues that could derail china’s dominance. For instance, the article talks about the rising number of discontented rural farmers and migrants who could bring abou t revolution (Minzner, 2007). The author also concurs with other scholars that China is not seeking confrontation with the United States. Therefore, according to the article, the policies applied by the Chinese government regarding rapid growth, reduction of poverty among the poor and police controls are aimed at stopping potential revolution against the regime. However, the article also alludes to the existence of threat posed by China’s emergence to the United States. Tensions between the two states concern Taiwan and South China Sea but do not seem like direct military confrontation. The author views Chinese competition as a challenge and not a threat. Therefore, the article proposes that the U.S. gives China an active role in expanding existing institutions rather than isolate or intimidate it. Moreover, the article suggests that China should take an active role and responsibilities in shaping international crises like the ones in Sudan and North Korea. The article also s tresses the need for the U.S. to strengthen international norms and institutions as well as deal with the world’s most populous nation in a bipartisan manner. The article provides a detailed description of research problem (Minzner, 2007). China’s Peaceful Rise in the 21st Century The article examines the conditions and challenges that would allow for peaceful rise of China. Moreover, the article explores whether china can achieve global dominance without war. The article begins by stressing China’s huge economic and military potential backed by a vast population and territory.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The article examines opportunities and challenges that face the world’s most populous nation in its quest to rise. In particular, the article divides conditions into two groups namely, domestic and international conditions. In the first part, the article looks at the relationship between China’s deep reform and perceived peaceful progress. Jintao’s concept of peaceful development has been the basis of China’s diplomatic policy. However, the article raises research question of whether China’s perceived peaceful development would work in the wide context of international and domestic development. The article also looks at the china’s regime stability, as well as political legitimacy. In addition, the article explores the country’s hybrid regime and peaceful development. In the second section, the article examines international conditions to China’s peaceful rise. In this section, the author looks at relationship between China-US military. Moreover, it examines the geopolitical system in central Asia (Guo, 2007). The article utilizes comprehensive literature to provide interpretation based on China’s new progress. Moreover, it examines China’s ability to achieve global dominance without provoking war, as was the case in Germany and Japan. Moreover, the article tries to answer research question of how China deals with potential provocations as witnessed in currency manipulations and diplomacy. The article provided a comprehensive review of the implications of China’s strategic choices with regard to diplomatic and economic influence. The article is therefore important in answering research question on china’s ability to achieve peaceful global dominance. Statistical techniques utilized in the articles provide both qualitative and quantitative analysis of china’s potential global dominance (Guo, 2007). Role of Statistics in Research Statistics plays an important role in condu cting of research. Statistics provides avenues for data collection, analysis and recommendation based on the outcomes. Moreover, statistics provides unique problem questions that lead to a choice of research steps and classification. Statistical hypothesis test is essential in empirical research of both quantitative and qualitative research analysis. However, statistical tests also have limitations. For instance, hypothesis test rarely applies literally. Moreover, the complexity of reasoning based on uncertain data sometimes lead to misunderstanding and wrong application of the statistical tests. Moreover, most of the tests are based on random variability that is based on assumptions thereby creating a possibility of error. During interpretations, one should be aware of potential causes of errors since wrong assumptions can result in invalid conclusions Conclusion Statistical methods play an important role in qualitative and quantitative analysis, as well as other research methodolo gies. Statistical methods provide information, which are significant for analysis. Statistical hypothesis is the most commonly used statistical test in empirical research of social science. It evaluates data by contrasting null hypothesis with its alternative hypothesis. High values are considered to be for null hypothesis while low values are considered to be against null hypothesis. From the above articles, it can be noted that China’s rise is will continue although it will depend heavily on its approach to managing its domestic and international issues. In addition, The United states will have to accept the changes that arise from China’s emergence. However, the U.S. should ensure that China rises through accepted international standards defined by western order (Chen, 2012). Reference List Altbach, P., Wang, Q. (2012). Can China Keep Rising? Scientific American, 307(4), 46-47. Chellaney, B. (2012). Rising Powers, Rising Tensions: The Troubled China-India Relations hip. SAIS Review, 32(2), 99-108. Chen, G. (2012). The Art of Governance: Managing Rising Expectations. China Development and Governance, 22(1), 1-5. Guo, S. (2007). China’s â€Å"Peaceful Rise† in 21st Century: Domestic and International Conditions. The China Journal, 1(58), 228-230. Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/20066356?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents Ikenberry, J. (2008). The Rise of China and the future of the West: Can the Liberal System Survive? Foreign affairs, 87(1), 23-37. Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/20020265?origin=JSTOR-pdfseq=1#page_scan_tab_contents Minzner, C. (2007). The Rise of China and the Interests of the U.S. The Ripon Forum, 41(2). This research paper on The Rise of China was written and submitted by user Rodolfo G. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Saturday, March 7, 2020

Celebrate Marriage With These Love Quotes

Celebrate Marriage With These Love Quotes You dont need a marriage to legitimize your relationship. Marriages are sacred vows and hence should be undertaken only when two people in love are willing to enter into a lifetime commitment. Without love, there cannot be a happy marriage. After years of commitment and togetherness, boredom can set in. Only love can help bind the couple and keep them happy forever. Here are some marriage love quotes to help rekindle the passion of love in marriage. Love Quotes for Rekindling Your Marriage Georg C. LichtenbergLove is blind, but marriage restores its sight. Groucho MarxSome people claim that marriage interferes with romance. Theres no doubt about it. Anytime you have a romance, your wife is bound to interfere. Harriet MartineauAny one must see at a glance that if men and women marry those whom they do not love, they must love those whom they do not marry. Mark TwainLove seems the swiftest, but it is the slowest of all growths. No man or woman really knows what perfect love is until they have been married a quarter of a century. Tom MullenHappy marriages begin when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry. David BissonetteI recently read that love is entirely a matter of chemistry. That must be why my wife treats me like toxic waste. Benjamin FranklinWhere there is marriage without love, there will be love without marriage. James GrahamLove is blind and marriage is the institution for the blind. George Bernard ShawIt is most unwise for people in love to marry. Pauline ThomasonLove is blind marriage is the eye-opener. Tom MullenHappy marriages begin when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry. Ellen KeyLove is moral even without legal marriage, but marriage is immoral without love. Will DurantThe love we have in our youth is superficial compared to the love that an old man has for his old wife. Pearl S. BuckA good marriage is one, which allows for change and growth in the individuals and in the way they express their love. Nathaniel HawthorneWhat a happy and holy fashion it is that those who love one another should rest on the same pillow. Michel de MontaigneIf there is such a thing as a good marriage, it is because it resembles friendship rather than love. MoliereLove is often the fruit of marriage. Mignon McLaughlinAfter the chills and fever of love, how nice is the 98.6Â º of marriage! Langdon MitchellMarriage is three parts love and seven parts forgiveness of sins. Mignon McLaughlinLove requires a willingness to die; marriage, a willingness to live.

Thursday, February 20, 2020

International Business of McDonald Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

International Business of McDonald - Essay Example It is referred as the industrial business transactions which take place collectively among two or more nations, areas or regions. These transactions are performed in order to augment the profit margin of an organisation along with its brand equity across the globe (Eebizguides, n.d.). Notably, in recent years the scope of international business in United Arab Emirates (UAE) augmented due to low trade barriers and huge amount of Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs). In addition, UAE also offers the opportunity of free trade zones with modern infrastructure and sovereignty from foreign exchange controls. The economy of UAE also offers an easy entrance to consumer markets connecting ‘13 free trade zones’ in the present scenario (Eebizguides, n.d.). The objective of the assignment is to analyse the importance of international business and the scope of foreign investment in UAE with the motive to assist an Australian renowned fashion company, Peter Alexander to expand its busine ss operations in UAE. With this intention, the discussion of this paper will evaluate the suggestion of considering joint ventures as a mode of strategic alliance with the local companies of UAE for Peter Alexander’s penetration to the market. 2.0. Project Description and Progress Peter Alexander is a renowned Australian fashion designer, mainly known as the leader in the segment of stylish sleepwear, nightwear and gifts. It includes varied types of stylish and trendy clothes for men, women and kids. In the year 2004, the foremost stand-alone store for Peter Alexander’s products was established in the city of Melbourne, Australia with his name (Peteralexander, n.d.). The objective of this project is to propose the organisation, i.e. Peter Alexander to expand in the UAE highlighting the opportunities in the UAE fashion industry. In order to enhance the portfolio of the brand along with its distinctiveness from a global perspective, Peter Alexander can be suggested with noteworthy strategies with due consideration to joint venture initiatives to attempt towards expanding its business operations in the markets of UAE. Hence, it might also facilitate Peter Alexander to amplify the brand value and total turnover of the organisation. It might also enhance the reputation of Peter Alexander, which is extremely essential to sustain in the long run. With this concern, the progress of this particular project will be considering the virtues of joint ventures to assist in the expansion planning of the company. Stage 2 3.0. Business Matching and Networking Owing to the virtues of globalisation, the intensity of fashion events enhanced quite rapidly acting as the backbone of the emerging markets of Middle Eastern region providing a considerable contribution over the GDP of these economies. Moreover, the exclusivity of fashionable hubs also developed by a large extent due to presentation of varied shows by the leading fashion houses within the market of Dubai (S cribd, n.d.). Thus, it is advised to the management of Peter Alexander, to visit the markets of Abu Dhabi and Dubai in order to recognise its underlining opportunities and strengths by conducting a market research to evaluate the internal as well as external risks

Tuesday, February 4, 2020

Street Food Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Street Food Marketing - Essay Example The target consumer for our food production is the low and middle-income class consumers. Based on behavioral statistics, these consumers will most likely prefer to take food on from the street. This group of consumers constitutes the largest of Plymouth residents, which makes our market target quite promising. However, with the pot sticker dumpling being a new introduction into this area, the initial sales are not expected to be high as compared to similar street foods. Sales are expected to rise with more consumers getting aware of the food’s existence in the area. In the bid to create awareness, the business shall make adverts be posted on local food guide websites such as the eatoutdevon.com website. As the team seeks to introduce this unique food into this highly competitive street food market, three areas shall be focused on including the quality of the product as compared to similar foods. Other areas will include legal requirements and registration, consumer behavior and reaction, and the level of competition and impact on the business. Concerning the quality of the pot sticker dumplings, the team will consider hiring professional chef highly experienced in the making of this product. If the food is of its best quality, the consumers’ reaction is expected to be positive and thus will influence their tendency to buy more. While the government of Plymouth requires every business seeking operational permits to trade, special licenses are offered to street food vendors based on authorized locations to trade.

Monday, January 27, 2020

Factors Affecting Health Communication Campaigns

Factors Affecting Health Communication Campaigns A comparison of HIV Aids and Polio Campaigns in Aligargh, Uttar Pradesh Introduction: Last two decades of the century has seen a renewed interest in the field of health communication, disease prevention and health promotion. This was because it was realized that continued investments in clinical health research brings diminishing returns if it is not accompanied with strategic information, education and communication(IEC) efforts. (Pencheon, Guest, Melzer, Gray, 2004) Public and government health departments are rich with tacit knowledge regarding health communication practices and the problems encountered with the population in their geographical area. However this information is rarely collected and written down due to lack of resources. Effective communication can spread knowledge, value and social norms. This can be instrumental in affecting behaviour and improving the over-all health status of the population. India faces a dual challenge in tackling the problem of HIV Aids and Polio. First is the overall high population and poor living conditions of people living in small towns and villages, and second is the complex socio- cultural factors which lead to poor awareness and stigma attached to these diseases. It is important to understand these factors which affect the impact of health communication campaigns in a particular geo-graphical sub system if a comprehensive micro understanding of this field has to be generated. Moreover there always exists a gap between the people who design health communication campaigns and the campaign implementers. An assessment and feed-back from the grass root level implementers needs to be taken if this gap has to be effectively filled. This research hopes to uncover these insights which will be useful not only to the academics but also to the practitioners. Literature review Health Communication: Health communication involves the use of communication strategies by experts in public health domain to influence the health behaviour of people. It is a link between health care practices and communication which has a significant impact on influencing individual and community behaviour towards health and thereby a huge potential to significantly improve their life. (Neil Mckee, 2004) HIV AIDS: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that infects cells of the immune system, destroying or impairing their function. As the infection progresses, the immune system becomes weaker, and the person becomes more susceptible to infections. The most advanced stage of HIV infection is acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It can take 10-15 years for an HIV-infected person to develop AIDS; antiretroviral drugs can slow down the process even further. HIV is transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse (anal or vaginal), transfusion of contaminated blood, sharing of contaminated needles, and between a mother and her infant during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. Global Case load: HIV Aids In countries most heavily affected, HIV has reduced life expectancy by more than 20 years, slowed economic growth, and deepened household poverty. In sub-Saharan Africa alone, the epidemic has orphaned nearly 12 million children aged less than 18 years. The natural age distribution in many national populations in sub-Saharan Africa has been dramatically skewed by HIV, with potentially perilous consequences for the transfer of knowledge and values from one generation to the next. In Asia, where infection rates are much lower than in Africa, HIV causes a greater loss of productivity than any other disease, and is likely to push an additional 6 million households into poverty by 2015 unless national responses are strengthened (Commission on AIDS in Asia, 2008). According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), HIV has inflicted the single greatest reversal in human development in modern history (UNDP, 2005). Fig 1.1 A global view of HIV Infection (UNAIDS, 2008) The current statistics on HIV/AIDS as published by UNAIDS (2008) are: Estimate People living with HIV/AIDS 33.0 million Adults living with HIV/AIDS 30.8 million Women living with HIV/AIDS 15.5 million Children living with HIV/AIDS 2.0 million People newly infected with HIV in 2007 2.7 million Children newly infected with HIV in 2007 0.37 million AIDS deaths in 2007 2.0 million Child AIDS deaths in 2007 0.27 million Fig. 1.2 -Current Statistics on HIV Aids Global Health Communication initiatives for HIV Aids: Education Entertainment Approach: The Soul City, South Africa (Goldstein, Japhet, E.Scheepers, 2004) South Africa even though a developed country had a wretched health care system, mainly due to long years of apartheid practices. In late 1990s Dr Garth Japhet, a young doctor observed this at Alex clinic. He observed that the health communication efforts in South Africa where very slogan based and not sustainable. Bursts of activity like National Aids day were not enough. There was no formative research before planning these campaigns. More over the campaigns followed a Top Down approach, and lacked synergies between medical community, government and media. Soul City was an extensive multi media campaign started in South Africa, due to the efforts of Dr Garth Japhet. The whole campaign was a collection of mass media campaigns which were connected and implemented year on year. There was a 13 part prime time- television series called Soul city, which was accompanied by a 60 episode radio show. Even though content of both these shows was not similar yet they both highlighted same health issues. Later on printed IEC material was also developed and distributed based on the characters of Soul City. These booklets were also reviewed by 11 top newspapers of the country. Through 1994 to 1999 five series of Soul city were broadcasted. These were consisted rated as top three most watched drama series in South Africa. The Radio program also got very high listenership ratings. Formative research and high creative input went into designing the IEC material which was targeted uniquely to adults and young population. The key to success of Soul City multimedia program was use of media conversion, from print to radio to television. This encouraged inter-personal discussions about health issues. Learning: Locally developed content which has quality entertainment works well For a multimedia educational model to succeed it should return value to all the stake holders Media advocacy leads to policy and social change A continual and integrated multimedia strategy is necessary if the effect of communication has to be sustained. Against Stigma: ACT UP, United States of America (Documents archive/Act Up explained) Stigma is a problem which plagues every country and becomes a very important factor in HIV + people seeking help and coming out in public .The Aids Coalition to unleash power , is one such organisation which attempts to remove this stigma through bold and creative action. They boldly use their slogan Silence = Death which urges people to speak up about HIV and Aids. They seek to normalize talks about condoms and Aids by radical action like sticking posters on telephone booths which say this telephone has been touched by a person with Aids Public demonstrations at churches, baseball fields, Wall Street etc are held to imply that Aids is everybodys business. Once during a Sunday sermon session in New York the ACT UP activists did staged a mass die in outside to highlight the bishops silence on Aids. ACT UP activists use linguistic symbols to make strong statements like -No, Glove No Love and Aids is no ball game. These were used as places like Shea baseball stadium. Learning: ACT UP founder Larry Kramer studied the fight against stigma by Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Martin Luther King and suitably adapted it for modern day audience Use of creative and clutter breaking ideas helps discussion and normalization of sensitive issues like stigma Use of public demonstration, Sit ins and Die ins helps create buzz and social change. Health communication efforts for HIV Aids in India: The National Aids Control Program (UNAIDS, 2008): Every State in India has an Aids prevention and Control Society which under supervision from NACO carries out local initiatives. The second Stage of National Aids control program (NACP) ended on March 2006.This focussed on various platforms to promote youth education about safe sex, safe blood donation and HIV testing. Various platforms like Street plays, concerts, national aids day, TV and radio spots, and celebrity endorsements were utilised. Use of teachers and peer group influencers was done to disseminate knowledge about HIV aids The third stage of NACP will have a strong focus on condom promotion. The installation of over 11,000 condom vending machines in colleges, road-side restaurants, stations, gas stations and hospitals has been done. With support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the government has also initiated a campaign called Condom Bindas Bol!, which involves advertising, public events and celebrity endorsements. It aims to break the taboo that currently surrounds condom use in India, and to persuade people that they should not be embarrassed to buy them. (Shhhhnot anymore!) Various multi-media campaigns have been implemented in India to create awareness about HIV. These include special communication programs to target special audience like sex workers, truck drivers, and street children. Radio programs are broadcasted on a regular basis to disseminate information. Field publicity units, Drama and song division has been set up to target rural India. Aids hotlines with around 1097 toll free numbers have been set up in major cities of India. A very successful program has been the University Talk Aids (UTA program), which covered 4,044 institutions in India and reached out to 3.5 million students. The program was implemented by National Service Scheme with assistance from WHO and NACO.Independent evaluation suggested that the program was highly successful in creating a healthy attitude about sex among young children  ­Communication regarding Condom promotion: Social marketing of Condoms combined with free distribution has been used to promote usage among general public as well as high risk groups. Department of Family welfare has been instrumental in distribution and supply of condoms. Family Health Awareness Campaign This campaign was focussed on creating awareness about RTI and STI among the general public as well as the field level functionaries. This campaign is organised annually in rural as well as urban slum areas. (Shaukat Mohammed, 2003) Reaching Special Audiences: Reaching Men who have Sex with men (MSM): Case Study Naz foundation Trust of India: (Rakesh, 2002) Background: India with a very high population runs the risks of very high PLHA even if a low prevalence rate of HIV is present. Even though most sources of infection are through hetero-sexual sex yet in certain areas like north -eastern India, IDU becomes a dominant factor for HIV transmission. Strategy: The Naz foundation was set up in 1994 to address sexual health issues of MSM, women, truck drivers and PLHA. The key communication objectives were: Communication about modes of transmission Prevention and risk reducing strategies Means of accessing treatment The intervention strategies utilised were: Community outreach: Nine outreach sites which were staffed with officers who provided information on safe sexual health practices, condom usage and provided referrals STI referrals: A non judgemental approach to STI risk patients was followed. STI clinics were set up with a MSM friendly physicians Social and Group meetings: support groups were formed to help MSM and create a freer environment for information interchange Counseling:Telephone hot lines and personal counselling was set up to address MSM concerns Results: The implementation of Naz foundation strategies was evaluated and it showed a number of positive results. An increase from 11 % to 43% for all time condom usage ,the STI clinic visits increased from 24% to 56%, and condom usage by male sex workers increased from 20% to 43 % Learning: Naz foundation realized that in order to reach out to special audiences tailored solutions are necessary. Some risk groups like female partners of MSMs are very difficult to reach and hence intensive efforts are needed in this area. Reaching out to Injecting Drug Users (IDU): Case Study IDUs in New Delhi India (Dorabjee, 1998) Background: In some cities of India like New Delhi the HIV prevalence rate among IDU users is as high as 85%.The Indian NGO Sharan has been working for IDU since 1979,and has done some breakthrough work in this area.(AIDS Analysis Asia ,1996). Strategy: IDU were motivated to join either drug substitution therapy which involved substituting drug injections to oral drug usage or needle exchange program where the registered IDU users vouched to stop exchanging needles during drug usage. The reason behind the success of this program was that it managed to develop a strong trust among IDU users because it employed recovering drug users as outreach workers. Constant feedback was sought from them and the program was modified accordingly. The IEC approaches used were counselling, peer education, information on sexual transmission of HIV aids, condom distribution and drug use prevention programs. Results: 33 % of registered IDU started taking oral drugs instead of Injections 21% stopped sharing needles Use of advocacy resulted in government accepting the use of harm reduction strategies for IDU users Learning: Political support is necessary for the success of any IEC project on sensitive issues. This can be influenced through strong advocacy Incorporating feedbacks by outreach workers and IDU can significantly increase the impact of the campaign A range of clinical, social and communication services are required to meet the purpose of HIV prevention among IDU users Addressing the mobile population: Case Study the Trucker Population of India (Bhoruka, 2001) There are about 50 million trucker population in India, who spend around ten months away from home. Around 70% of these engage in unprotected extra marital sex (UNAIDS, 2006).HIV infection is high in this segment along with a high STI danger. A major obstacle is that these truck drivers do not use condoms for road side sex as it regarded as a re-creational activity. Strategy: The Bhoruka public welfare trust (BPWT), attempted to reach these truck drivers through free tea parlours set up at 5 main route stops in India. These tea parlours offered a meeting ground for the truck drivers and offered tea, newspaper, TV and other forms of entertainment. However no prostitution or drugs were encouraged. Condoms, clinical counselling and STI medical referrals were offered at a subsidised rate. The most important aspect was focus on peer education and counselling. As these truck drivers discussed about their life, peer educators gave them counselling and information. Parking lots were used as another reaching stop where peer educator gave out condoms and IEC material. This program became so successful that various truck drivers themselves became informal peer educators. The tea-shops were also managed by truck drivers or sex workers. Informal truck driver peer educators were later trained and given certificates to become formal peer educators and work in these tea shops. Small motivational incentives like bags and pens were also offered to these truck drivers as well as informal peer educators. Results: Every tea centre reaches out to close to 48,000 people annually, provides subsidised treatment to 2,200 patients .Fifty percent of these patients are treated for STIs Around 200 truck drivers had been trained as peer educators by the year 2000 The condom social marketing component of this program was very successful, with steady increase in condom sales. Till 2000 there were 104,832 sold and 162 active condom distribution set up. Learning: A high level of motivation should be maintained amongst the peer learning groups. Its important to have support of all the stakeholders for the success of any ICE program. Poliomyelitis (polio) Poliomyelitis (polio) is a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children. The virus is transmitted through contaminated food and water, and multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system. Many infected people have no symptoms, but do excrete the virus in their faeces, hence transmitting infection to others. Initial symptoms of polio include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. In a small proportion of cases, the disease causes paralysis, which is often permanent. Polio can only be prevented by immunization (World Health Organisation) Global Case load: Polio Polio cases have decreased by over 99% since 1988, from an estimated 350 000 cases in more than 125 endemic countries then, to 1997 reported cases in 2006. In 2008, only parts of four countries in the world remain endemic for the disease the smallest geographic area in history. In 1994, the World Health Organization (WHO) Region of the Americas (36 countries) was certified polio-free, followed by Western Pacific Region (37 countries and areas including China) in 2000 and the WHO European Region (51 countries) in June 2002. In 2007, more than 400 million children were immunized in 27 countries during 164 supplementary immunization activities (SIAs). Globally, polio surveillance is at historical highs, as represented by the timely detection of cases of acute flaccid paralysis. Persistent pockets of polio transmission in northern India, northern Nigeria and the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan are key epidemiological challenges. As long as a single child remains infected with polio, children in all countries are at risk of contracting the disease. The poliovirus can easily be imported into a polio-free country and can spread rapidly among unimmunised populations. Between 2003 and 2005, 25 previously polio-free countries were re-infected due to importations. The four polio-endemic countries are Afghanistan, India, Nigeria and Pakistan. Global Health Communication efforts for Pulse Polio: Strategic communication efforts in Afghanistan (Rafiqi, 2004) The Pulse polio eradication program of Afghanistan faced stiff challenges due to illiteracy, resistance, inaccessibility and worsening security conditions. Strategic approach for Polio health communication in Afghanistan focussed on advocacy, social mobilization, communication to support the program and training. Advocacy was achieved by involving top leaders at every program launch, and getting them involved at all levels by sharing epidemiological data. Social mobilization through involvement of religious leaders, mosque and prayer announcements, and inter-personal communication. Television and Radio was also utilized. Communication to support the program was achieved through district and community based forums which encouraged discussions, dedicated community specific social mobilization workers were employed and training was given to Imams and other religious leaders. Print media was used effectively for brochures, banners and leaflets. Learning: Its a challenge to shift the focus of health communication from campaign type to sustainable communication Advocacy at highest level is instrumental to success of the campaign Use of local facilities like mosques, bazaars, mobile loudspeakers etc lead to effective social mobilization Appropriate mix of print and radio can effectively reach mobile population Establish strong relationship with religious leaders Promote health education through health facilities as well as private practitioners Ensure all factions of community are involved including women Polio immunization efforts through public health education efforts in West Africa. (African Science Academy Development Initiative (ASADI), 2005) Nigeria faced a major challenge when polio vaccination was stalled in northern areas due to huge negative controversy in local as well international media regarding the safety of these oral medicines. Moreover allot of trusted religious leaders also spoke out against the vaccine. To fight this drastic loss of acceptance of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), a strong communication plan was developed with the objective that each child should get OPV drops.This was achieved through heightened advocacy through large scale public flag offs of campaigns, direct involvement of the president, working with the private companies including telecom companies, and engagement of religious as well as community networks. To focus on community education community mobilizers were assigned to high risk area, traditional media like street theatre, town criers, mobile cinema and folk songs were utilized. Mass media like TV spots and radio jingles were also integrated Effective use of Media for behaviour change was used. This included broadcasting in national languages, special programs for minority groups, projection of human interest stories to create positive dialogue, folk media, community theatre and mobile cinema followed by dialogue. Success of this campaign can be determined by the fact that the demand for immunization and OPV drops substantially increased. The OPV controversy was effectively resolved, along with support from key stake holders. Learning: Behaviour Change through public education and integrated mass and traditional campaigns can effectively result in more demand and acceptance of polio immunization. Health communication efforts for Polio: India Reducing resistance and increasing community dialogue: Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) India, 2007) Meerut is one of the regions of Uttar -Pradesh which is seen as high risk for the polio endemic. A highly innovative social mobilization campaign was implemented in Meerut, which involved: Use of distinct influencers; Three teams of 35 Urdu teachers,24 kirana store owners and Hajis (people who have completed Haj pilgrimage )were involved in these teams. Close to 25,000 primary schools were approached on republic day, to educate the children, inform them of the dates of immunisation so that better participation is achieved. Mosques were approached to educate the community. Their participation increase from 61% in January 2007 to 74% in February 2007. Meetings on a regular basis were conducted with mothers and daughter in laws, to discuss polio and child health issues. Booklets were published which contained poems written by local influential poets. These boosted the morale of health workers and also worked as strong advocacy measure. Due to these innovative techniques Meerut recorded the lowest no. of resistant households in Uttar Pradesh in 2007. Learning: Polio needs to be incorporated as a part of overall child health program . Consistent, open and on-going dialogue with all factions of community is necessary. Use of innovative techniques to create interest: Polio Joker (Kher, 2007) Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), hired Manchanda Jha to dress up as a joker and attract kids to polio booths .He sings songs about polio, does tricks, engages children and gives information about the importance of polio drops alongside.When dances and sings Chal chale polio boothpe hum sathiyoon, chalke do boondh jeevan ke le sathiyon the children are not only humoured but also an important message has been delivered. He became so successful that he came to be called Polio Joker popularly. He has been instrumental in reaching out to care-givers and kids in slum areas. This program was implemented for three years and has very high recall value. Learning: New entertaining techniques need to be implemented if communication has to reach children Communication methods should be tailored to meet the needs of high risk areas. Rationale of the research Health status of a country is influenced by a number of factors like food, water, income, sanitation, education and accessibility to health care services. Health communication campaigns and health services dont exist in a vacuum but are influenced by external socio-economic, cultural and factors. These factors play an important part on how health information education and communication campaigns are designed, implemented and finally received by the target audience. These factors also influence policies, resource allocation, technology, training of medical staff and communication strategies used. These in turn shape the health services system of a particular region. Studies which have documented the health communication efforts have restricted themselves to an analysis at national level. It will be not surprising to find that in a complex nation like India various sub-systems exist, and every sub-system might influence the message in its own way. HIV AIDS and Polio are two major health concerns faced by Indian population. On-going and consistent efforts are made to educate people regarding these. However again within a geographic sub-system people might react and respond both these campaigns in a differential manner owing to a variety of factors like sensitivity of the issue, complexity of the message and stigma. Through this study I wish to explore these factors which affect the impact of health communication campaigns of HIV Aids and Polio, in a geographic sub-system. Research Objectives: Through the analysis of the literature review and recommendation of my guide the following research objectives have been identified: To understand the health communication processes and initiatives undertaken for HIV Aids and Polio prevention/care at a sub-system, grass root level. To identify factors which lead to an differential impact of these health communication campaigns To suggest improvements ,if possible, to current health communication practices followed in the geographic sub-system Research Areas: Health communication campaigns which will be studied extensively are: Against HIV-Aids: These will include the communication efforts in the area of prevention (transmission through mother to child, sexual transmission and primary prevention) and against stigma. Against Pulse Polio: Campaigns for polio education and routine immunisation will be studied. This study aims to understand the use of traditional media, electronic and human channel employed at the grass root level. What are the problems faced in implementation, what are the intermediary factors which affect them, and what measures are taken to combat these problems. An evaluation of these campaigns will also be conducted based on how much has the target audience been receptive to them, and responded by either positive action or behaviour change. Ultimately both these campaigns will be compared and contrasted to arrive at the differentiating factors which impact the outcome of these. Research Methodology: Phase One An extensive secondary research will be done to establish a foundation for the primary research. The literature review provides certain learning about different methods of strategic health communication. This learning will be taken forward to secondary research where the focus will be kept on the grass root health communication initiatives undertaken in the chosen sub-system. In addition a case study method will be employed to shape up the key focus areas for the primary research. Phase two This phase will consist of primary research will be essentially qualitative and exploratory in nature. The purpose of this type of research methodology is to generate basic knowledge on relevant areas, discover associated factors, and identify information gaps. Data collection and Analysis: Secondary research will consist of data collection from online sources, medical and communication journals as well as reports. Various performance reports and internal documents which are generated at the primary sub-system level will also be looked into gather data. Expert In-depth interviews will be conducted to gain more understanding on the subject. It is important to note that the interviews will be open -ended and flexible to generate maximum insights. These interviews will involve extensive probing and will utilize the technique of laddering, An interview guideline will however be prepared for a comprehensive and systematic execution. Similar technique of in-depth interviews will also be employed to collect information from target audience regarding the appeal of the campaigns. The reason why in-depth-interviews will be used over other methods of data collection is: It is flexible It provides in-depth information about areas to be covered Since the area of study is very specialised it provides scope for clarification Some of the issues which needs to be discussed are personal in nature, a face to face and private discussion is necessary Like other techniques, this tool also suffers from certain limitations. It is prone to bias and largely depend on the skill of the interviewer. It is an expensive technique, can be time consuming and responses may be difficult to interpret. The structure of the interview is not clearly defined unlike a survey and so same questions may not be asked to all the respondents Area of Study: The chosen geographical sub-system for the primary research is Aligarh in UP. The reasons behind this are the following: Northern UP has a relatively high prevalence rate of HIV AIDS Its one of the few areas in India which is still Polio Endemic Familiarity with the local language Initial contacts are available Timeframe of the study: Phase one-: November till mid-December 2009 Phase two/primary research: Mid December to January 2010 Sampling: Sampling universe consists of all the experts in the area of the study, and the population to which the health communica

Sunday, January 19, 2020

Curbing college drinking starts with a change in attitude Essay

The article by Sarah Fritz deals with a very acute issue of today’s reality: college drinking. She draws on horrifying statistics showing that 1,400 college students die each year because of alcohol and 600,000 are assaulted by another drunk student. We are used to assaults and rapes related to alcohol, but few would connect it with the deaths of such a large number of young people. Fritz makes one think that drinking can be more harmful and dangerous than we are used to think. At the same time, the author is sceptical about the prospects of fighting alcohol dependence with the methods, currently used on campus. I agree with her where she says that college officials may not be really interested in fighting the problem, because any mention of drinking incidents on some particular campus will hurt the reputation of this university. So if they are interested in hushing things up, then there is hardly a chance that drinking will go away any time soon. Besides, the bad example set by the previous generation mentioned by Fritz still works. Students know that their parents drank in their college youth and many of them turned out all right. As a result, students are convinced that adults are exaggerating the problem and trying to deny them what made the fun and joy of their own youth – happy partying with friends. Students may be afraid to try some new unknown drugs, but they know that humanity used alcohol since the time of Ancient Greeks and this did not bring the civilization to ruin. Perhaps a massive campaign against drinking can have effect, but only to a certain point, since the young always want to try out things even if they look dangerous. For this reason the effect will be limited. In addition, young people for the most part value having a good time above everything else, and for many people good time is closely connected with alcohol. They simply do not know any other way to spend their time in a more exciting way than binging with friends, and teaching them other ways is extremely difficult. Wanderman, Richard. One Person’s Path to Literacy. Wanderman’s story has many meanings. On the one hand, it gives an idea of how a person with disabilities adjusts to the world designed for normal people. On the other, it give insights into the process of learning, so deep and simple that virtually every person can use them to achieve success in some field. Wanderman does not ask for pity, nor does he write his story to express his bitterness about the world that was harsh on the disabled man. He opens his story with stating that he has a successful career, a nice house and a family. The author seems to have no hard feeling against nature or God that has made him this way. His journey from inability to improvement was his own making, and in this sense he is a self-made man indeed. Reading his story is highly useful for all of the healthy people who enjoy the benefits of good health they received at birth and forget that this blessing was not given to anybody. Basic things like reading a book or getting good grades in public school can be a challenge to these people, something worth remembering for all. The things Wanderman learned through his learning experience can be useful to all of us, since we all come across challenges in our lives. He very perceptively describes how he learned that a man can be stupid and incapable in one area and at the same time smart in another. His lesson that practice makes perfect is also very important to learners who despair at the first failure. He also learned that his father was right when he told him that â€Å"bumps would build character† (Wanderman 2000). Stating that he is happy to have a lot of character because of his trials, although he would not like to repeat his path, Wanderman gives comfort to those who are going through a black streak in their lives. Although they are going through difficulties, this is going to mould their characters in such a way that they are better able to meet the next set of difficulties to come. Logan, Paul. Rowing the Bus. Paul Logan’s story touches a cord with everyone who was once insulted or humiliated by a school mob or any other group of people enjoying scapegoating. It also touches a cord with anyone who has seen abuse of the vulnerable, but was too scared to defy the mob. The story tells about things many of us have encountered but were too ashamed to bring up in public discussion. Paul goes through an evolution in his attitude to bullies. In the first school, he believes them to be inevitable because of his poor clothes, fatherless family, lisp, crossed eyes and poor skill at sports. When one reads these stories, one often wonders why teachers never did anything to accommodate the child who was so different from the rest and clearly suffered from other children’s attitudes. Why didn’t they change something about the team selection process if they saw that it was humiliating to the one in the group who most needed protection? Anyway, Paul was obviously left on his own to combat the class, and this instilled in him very strong fear of being the one at the bottom. The fear was so strong that he rejects George who is even more vulnerable than he was in the new school. However, George’s hurt look triggers a revolution in Paul’s mind. He suffers from pangs of conscience so strong that finally he overcomes his fear in the incident with Donald, a high school bully. He is so successful that from now on all school bullies behave quieter when he is on the bus. They recognise that Paul has the strength to defend his views that developed under the influence of his own negative experience. Thus Paul succeeds in becoming sort of moral authority for the school. His influence on the others is positive, and for himself this action symbolizes threshold to maturity, a transition from boyhood to manhood. He is no longer the vulnerable one – on the contrary, he is able to protect the others. Still, he is left with the vision of George that he will hardly let go in the nearest future. Frost, Robert. Mending Wall. Mending a wall describe a slow, methodical process through which two neighbors are trying to isolate themselves from each other. They continue mending the barrier between their properties even when they feel that â€Å"something there is that doesn’t love a wall† (Frost 1915). The two neighbors have different views on neighbourhood and the necessity of the wall, yet they are working together to maintain the old and rundown thing. The neighbor who has a pine forest wants to maintain the wall since he learned from his father that â€Å"good fences make good neighbours† (Frost 1915). He does not question this saying, probably like he does not question any truths he learned from his Dad. The wall in his thinking is something that probably stood there for centuries and now is expected to stand at least for his lifetime. This neighbour is eager to devote time and effort to repairing the old wall, even though it is difficult to keep it in the same condition and stones and balls will not balance. The author seems to be more open to neighbors. He does not really want to keep a wall because he does not believe that it will improve his relationship with the neighbour. On the contrary, he does not think there is any threat from the neighbor’s house or pine forest that will not jump over to his land and eat his apples. Frost probably does not have a strong sense of property and is not so much afraid to share something that is his with others. He insists that fences make sense as a barrier to cows’ movement, but since there are no cows really, it makes no sense to keep them. The little poem makes one think about one’s attitudes to neighbours. It looks like there are two kinds of attitudes: either one maintains a fence around one’s property and does one’s best to keep the others out, or one does not care for fences. I do not think that there is a right or wrong choice here. It all depends on the way of communication one is comfortable with, although I would definitely prefer to do without fences.