Leisure the basis of culture by Josef Pieper Essay

Leisure the basis of culture by Josef Pieper - Essay Example According to the new scale of values, to have leisure means to have break from work or to go in a state of idleness. Although breaking from work is considered as leisure in the modern world, yet it actually is not. Values of the modern age compel people to live for working. Materialism and consumption are two of the main values of the modern society unlike the past, when spirituality was the main value. In the new scale of human values, a person is considered good, better, or best depending upon the extent to which he/she has contributed to the society. This can even mean consumption because the more an individual consumes, the more businesses flourish and the more the society benefits from consumption. For the modern mind, work means to be able to serve the society as a whole. This conception of work tends to deny the consideration of any such activities as work that do not benefit the whole society. For the modern mind, work is not necessarily that which requires physical input or labor. Mental exertion and use of intelligence is also considered work because mind is used to make plans that benefit the whole society. The modern mind has lost the fundamentals of the notion of leisure. The worker who thinks that the only way to serve the society is doing work tends to think of leisure as inactivity and idleness. The concept of obtaining something in a passive receptivity is in contrast with the concept of good that is imposed upon man by the modern mind. According to the modern mind, nothing good can be achieved unless some effort has been made for it. Work for the modern mind means a way to get compensated so that the money earned can be spent that is what modern mind thinks of as leisure. Leisure for the classical mind is engaging in activities that cause spiritual rejuvenation. These activities include pondering over the reason of fundamental existence of man on Earth, the purpose of life, and thinking about where man came from and where he has to go after de ath. Leisure for the classical mind means engaging in festivals to praise the Creator. This means using mind to develop one’s connection with God. This might even take physical labor, but the spiritual rejuvenation does help man better prepare even for such worldly activities as doing work. According to the classical mind, the heart of leisure exists in the world’s affirmation. This affirmation exists in festival and is essentially the praise of God because the entire meaning of the festival exists in the aspect of worship that it encapsulates. In the classical perspective, leisure means worship. When the definition of leisure of the classical mind is interpreted in light of the modern conception of work, leisure then also work because to find out the answers of these questions of spirituality, one needs to think and use the brain. This is the fundamental reason why thinking has become passive in the modern world because leisure in the modern world is translated is pur e idleness and break from work, meaning no thinking is involved in the modern interpretation of the term â€Å"leisure†. The emphasis placed by the classical mind on the practice of religion and developing a strong connection with God is one of the main reasons why practicing religion and opposing such notions that are condemned by religion as homosexuality are considered as passive and regressive in the modern age. The major issue in the transformation of values from the classical mind to the modern mind is that man has become increasingly materialistic, and has become so involved in the worldly activities that his relationship and connection with nature in general and God in particular is distorted. This is one

Water Pollution Essay Example for Free

Water Pollution Essay More people die from dirty water and poor sanitation in Africa, than acts of violence , including war(â€Å"Why is Clean Water so important?†). Children are especially targeted for disease, because their immune system is smaller, and they are younger (â€Å"Why Water?† ). Africa has many poor countries, and many people are dying from diseases in water. Every day, people have to walk over five miles to get a bucket of water for the family they are in. Most of the time, the only water people can find is dirty. Dirty water causes children to develop diseases every year. In fact, over eighty percent of disease is caused by unclean water (Drop in the Bucket). Many organizations are desperately working to give third-world countries the water that people need. The organizations want to build a well for every village in Africa, so there is no more disease breaking out, and people want to reduce the death toll of 2,000 a day, to a much lower amount(â€Å"Water Aid†). In Africa alone, people spend 40 billion hours every year just walking for water. Women and children usually bear the burden of water collection, walking miles to the nearest source, which is unprotected and likely to make them sick (â€Å"Why Water?†). There are many ways one can help Africa reduce their pollution, especially in water. One way that takes the least amount of effort, but makes a big difference, is to donate to an organization. There are so many of them that are serving Africa, and the more donations, the better. People want to end poverty right? Another method of impact is to never waste water. If one cannot finish water, give it to a plant, or save it for later. But never throw it away. The last method of impact is try to reduce the pollution in communities around you. If the world has too much pollution, America’s water will end up like Africa’s, and our population will reduce and reduce, and at some point, the world might even end. To sum it up, the pollution in Africa is on the rise, and people need help to get clean water. First world countries like America have no idea how much people waste clean water, and how lucky those people are to have it. So in the future, don’t waste water, one will never know who doesn’t have it. Works Cited Drop in the Bucket. Drop in the Bucket. N.p., Jan. 2013. Web. 30 Jan. 2013. What Makes Clean Water So Important? Blue Planet Network. Blue Planet Network, 12 Jan. 2013. Web. 29 Jan. 2013. Worlds Top 10 Most Polluted Places. Worlds Top 10 Most Polluted Places: Scientific American. Scientific American, Jan. 2013. Web. 29 Jan. 2013.

Can Religion Make You Happy? Essay -- Happiness Essays

â€Å"If Religion Makes People Happy, Why Are So Many Dropping Out?† -- Louis Tay and David G. Meyers. Throughout history, religion has helped form the basic fabric of society. From an early age, religion provided the answers to any unexplainable natural phenomena. The question of why the world worked in a particular way was easily answered with â€Å"because [name of deity] made it that way.† Religion was everywhere; everyone had their own ideas about how the world worked and what their role was in the universe. Each likeminded group held that their religious beliefs were the root cause of their happiness and general satisfaction with life. Centuries of religious dominance eventually gave birth to a widespread idea that strong religious beliefs are essential to living a happy and fulfilling life. Even today, in a society dominated by scientific advances, religion finds a niche in catering to people’s spiritual needs. Indeed, despite the societal changes that have occurred in modern times, religion has remained largely unchanged since its early days. The belief t hat religion factors heavily into one’s life satisfaction and happiness has also remained much the same, despite today’s complex and ever-changing society. The problem lies where religion is viewed as a major way to achieve happiness, and this perspective can lead to blind acceptance of religion solely on the basis of its supposed universal benefits. Basically, a new way of looking at religion is needed: seeing it not as the end-all happiness tool, but as a small factor in a complex web of happiness and well-being. Traditionally, organized religion in the Western world encouraged a melancholy outlook on life. Today, however, religion represents an image of happi... ...tz, Hans-Georg; Lewis, Christopher Alan. â€Å"The Relationship Between Religion and Happiness Among German Students.† Pastoral Psychology. 51.4 (2003): 273-281. Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection. Web. 19 June 2015. Madigan, Timothy J. â€Å"Godless Happiness.† Free Inquiry Summer 1998: 32+. Student Resources in Context. Web. 19 June 2015. Moeller, Philip. â€Å"Religion Makes People Happier--But Why?† Chicago Tribune. N.p., 13 Apr. 2012. Web. 15 June 2015. Myers, David G. â€Å"Who’s Happy? Who’s Not?† Christianity Today. 23 Nov. 1992: 23+. Gale Power Search. Web. 19 June 2015. Schumaker, John F. â€Å"Can Religion Make You Happy?† Free Inquiry Summer 1998: 28+. Student Resources in Context. Web. 19 June 2015. Stearns, Peter N. â€Å"The History of Happiness. (Cover Story).† Harvard Business Review 90.1/2 (2012): 104-109. Business Source Complete. Web. 6 June 2015.

Sir Isaac Newton Essay examples -- Biography Accomplishments of Isaac

Why do things fall when we drop them? How come we do not float as we would on the moon? Where do the colors of a rainbow come from? How long would it take to drive across Colorado if you are constantly changing speeds? All of these questions can now be answered, largely impart because of the great English philosopher, Sir Isaac Newton. In a time where religion was at war with science, Isaac Newton opened up people's minds to theories and reason. Isaac Newton was to be the starburst of the Enlightenment. He became the foundation of enlightened thought. It was the 17th century, the time of the Scientific Revolution. Many brilliant men contributed to this time, but it was Newton who solidified their thoughts and theories (Margaret, 10). Isaac Newton is one of the most influential people in the world. He not only invented so many new concepts and ideas, but he brought an understanding of the universe that we live in to people across the world. Isaac Newton not only c hanged the world with the invention of calculus, but also with his theory of light and color, and his invention of physical science and the law of universal gravitation (Margaret, 11). To begin with, Isaac Newton laid down the foundations for differential and integral calculus. It all began when Newton was enrolled at Cambridge College, the University that helped him along in his studies. Here, he began reading what ever he could find, especially if it had something to do with mathematics. He read books on geometry by Descartes, algebra books by John Wallis, and eventually developed the binomial theorem which was a shortcut in multiplying binomials (Margaret, 46). Newton was 22 at this time and he was already going beyond other people's thinking.... ...e began by mastering mathematics. He developed calculus in order for him to find the rate of change of objects. He learned about light and colors, which lead to his invention of the refracting telescope. He was the man that finally built a model of astronomy and physics and in doing so, brought together the work of Kepler and Galileo and of course his own findings on gravity (Margaret, 90). Newton was the first scientist ever to be honored with a knighthood for his work (Christianson, 138). Newton saw far, farther than anyone else at this time. He changed the world, and opened people's eyes. Work Cited Anderson, Margaret. Isaac Newton: The Greatest Scientist of All Time. Berkeley Heights, New Jersey: Enslow Publishers; Revised edition, 2008. Christianson, Gale. Isaac Newton: And the Scientific Revolution. New York: Oxford University Press, 1996.

Modernism, Mass Culture

Andrea Hussies argues that â€Å"since the mold 19th century, the culture of modernity has been characterized by a volatile relationship between high art and mass culture. † The writer states that Modernist artists strove to distance themselves from the â€Å"lark pour lark† movements of the turn of the century like Art Nouveau, Symbolism and ?aestheticism. This type of art pandered to the tastes of the middle classes striving to live â€Å"the good life† which evolved into a culture of decadence and indulgence. TheModernists also distanced themselves from Abstract Expressionism during the Post World War II years, favoring autonomy, a hostility to mass culture and a â€Å"radical separation from the culture of everyday life† rather than a desire to â€Å"find a content rich with meaning and redolent of social responsibility. † Hussies highlights that the most significant Modernist â€Å"attack† on the esthetics ideas of the self-sufficiency o f high culture In the 19th century resulted from a discord of the independent modernist stretch wealth the post World War I revolutionary politics in Russia andGermany, and the Increasingly rapid evolution of city life during the early 20th century. Hussies asserts that the attack was known as the historical avian garden symbolizing a new aesthetics approach, manifested in movements like expressionism, Berlin Dada, Russian constructivism, the post Russian Revolution purposeful and French Surrealism. The author ascribes this presence to a so-called â€Å"Great Divide† separating high art from mass culture, which he insists is imperative to the theoretical and historical understanding of modernism.The book Fin De Is ©clue and Its Legacy states that Hussein's thesis about postmodernist is highly debatable, and that artistic modernism can only be understood in relation to the developments that came after the emergence of new mass communications technologies from the time of Bau delaire to the Second World War. Despite a great divide, the developments of high art apparently came about as a reaction to and dependence on mass communications technologies. One might argue that artistic modernism can only be understood in relation to the mass culture of the time.Hussies asserts that both modernism and the avian-garden have always defined their identity in relation to traditional bourgeois high culture and modern commercial mass culture. He believes that most discussions relating to modernism, the avian-garden and even post modernism validate bourgeois high culture at the expense of the avian-garden or modernism. Artists of the mid 19th century like French Realist Gustavo Courier disapproved of the depiction of historical and fictional subjects in art, preferring to focus their work on mundane everyday contemporary life.Through his work, Courier broke away from academic forms and standards that advocated Idealism, and attempted to destabilize the economic power s tructure of the day. Although It might appear that there were grounds for wanting to separate the notion of high art from mass culture, the economic climate in France money of mass communication in order to make a living. Artists like Henry Toulouse- Ululate and Egg ©nee Grasses relied on poster making as a means of generating income.In the case of Grasses, after studying art and architecture and working as an accomplished painter and sculptor, he designed and produced posters, which was said to have become his fort ©. His posters eventually generated interest in the United States, and the artist was asked to design a cover for Harpers magazine in 1892 at a time of continuing expansion in the magazine industry. One might suggest that instead of there being a great divide between high art and mass culture, artists of the time were using the tools of high art to communicate ideas to mass culture, and that each existed in tandem with instead of in opposition to the other.Hussies ar gues that both Greenberg and Adorn insisted on a â€Å"categorical separation of high art and mass culture†, both men being driven by an impulse to â€Å"save the dignity and autonomy of the art work from the totalitarian pressures of fascist mass spectacles, socialist realism and degraded commercial mass culture in the West. † However, the writer goes on to agreeably postulate that although both men's impulses might have been correct at the time, their insistence of such a separation or divide became out dated.

A Bend In The River essays

A Bend In The River essays The novel, A Bend in the River, centers on Salim, a Muslim of an Indian family who has lives in coastal towns. Salim himself is not really a smart man, not intellectual at all. It takes place in an unnamed east coastal African country. The topic, which Im going to handle, is about the comparison of Salims view of The Big Man contrasting with Naipauls view of Mobutu in A New King for the Congo. The Big Man is the countrys new elite. He is a raw, fearful, and greedy man. He rules by rhetorical devices, and sorcery. The Big man is the president for life. Many things are changing in the country. Big buildings are being built; young ones are admitted to new schools and universities; the street thugs are all enrolled in the army. Its like if The Big Man is making a difference there. Many things are changing, even to the point where the tribes are fading away, the social classes that are dismembering from society. People living there are also losing most of their self-assurance. They even listen to 3-hour lectures from The Big Man on radio. We can clearly see what is happening. The Big Man is making things exactly how he wants them. He is making the society believe that there is going to be only one source of power, and thats going to be him. He basically wants to eliminate all the tribal life and bring out a new way of living. Salim, like I said in the beginning is not a very intellectual man, so he is trying to understand the new Africa. It hasnt all setup in his mind yet. So he decides to be patient. At the end the Big Man pretty much ruins Salims life by assigning his little shop to Citizen Theotime. But personally I dont think that giving away his shop like that affected him that much. I think its the way he wanted him to do things that mad him mad. The Big Man wanted Salim to let Theotime be the boss, be someone he wasnt. Basically the B ...

Importance of Communism essays

Importance of Communism essays In the eyes of many individuals communism is seen as the route of all evil and the worst choice for a system of government. Many countries including the United States have spent a lot of time, money and effort in order to prevent the spread and influence of communism throughout the world. Even though freedom is associated with democracy and control with communism, there are many instances where certain people need to be governed under a communist regime. In the eyes of such figures as Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, communism is nothing more than abolition of private property. Which means that the government controls the state. These two as well as many others see communism as the only fit way to govern and in some cases this is true. In one of the readings Karl Marx makes a very good argument in showing how over history there have been social rankings and control, but it was not labeled as communism. He says in the earlier epochs of history we find almost everywhere a complicated arrangement of society into various orders, a manifold gradation of social rank. This proves that people are accustomed to living in a world where certain individuals rule and the citizens or people obey their rules or laws. A great example of where communism works and is followed is in both Russia and China. Without the rule under communism both countries would probably be in total chaos. The people are accustomed to following orders and being taken care of by the government. The country survives through the government and if the people had to provide for themselves an endless amount of problems would occur, such as starvation, poverty, and chaos. From the reading anyone can see the positives of communism and its impact on cert ain societies. Both Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels prove that communism is necessary and is helpful in containing governments that are not good for the people. ...

Free Essays on Pre-Interview Preparations

What preparation needs to be done before the interview? For starters, pre-interview preparations should actually begin with determining the type of job opening available within the company. In this scenario, the job opening is one of sales personnel. Hence, in this example, the Human Resource Manager of ABC Pharmaceutical would have conferred with the head of the department in which the position is open, i.e. the Sales Manager. Together, they would have firstly, discussed the job qualifications and the criteria for the â€Å"ideal† candidate, and secondly, made sure the job description accurately reflected the current job opening. Once that is accomplished, the next few steps are crucial in determining the success and effectiveness of the ABC Pharmaceutical interview. This is also, where the main bulk of time is spent preparing and planning. There are several tasks the three interviewers can do beforehand to improve their chances of success. The first is to follow a systematic approach starting with defining the objectives of the interview. With that in mind, the very first questions they should ask themselves before conducting the interview are â€Å"Why am I conducting this interview?† and â€Å"What do I want to achieve from it?† A good second task is to, by reading all relevant applications and have available all necessary documentation including the job description and the personnel specifications. This means, to consult the five application forms, CVs, references, letter of applications, job specifications, and test results. By reviewing the five candidates’ application forms and/or resumes, the three interviewers of ABC can create, in their minds, a more complete picture of the applicants in terms of what is represented on the resumes and applications, and what the job requires. From example, by doing research before the interview, the interviewers will then know enough about their candidates to ask intelligent... Free Essays on Pre-Interview Preparations Free Essays on Pre-Interview Preparations What preparation needs to be done before the interview? For starters, pre-interview preparations should actually begin with determining the type of job opening available within the company. In this scenario, the job opening is one of sales personnel. Hence, in this example, the Human Resource Manager of ABC Pharmaceutical would have conferred with the head of the department in which the position is open, i.e. the Sales Manager. Together, they would have firstly, discussed the job qualifications and the criteria for the â€Å"ideal† candidate, and secondly, made sure the job description accurately reflected the current job opening. Once that is accomplished, the next few steps are crucial in determining the success and effectiveness of the ABC Pharmaceutical interview. This is also, where the main bulk of time is spent preparing and planning. There are several tasks the three interviewers can do beforehand to improve their chances of success. The first is to follow a systematic approach starting with defining the objectives of the interview. With that in mind, the very first questions they should ask themselves before conducting the interview are â€Å"Why am I conducting this interview?† and â€Å"What do I want to achieve from it?† A good second task is to, by reading all relevant applications and have available all necessary documentation including the job description and the personnel specifications. This means, to consult the five application forms, CVs, references, letter of applications, job specifications, and test results. By reviewing the five candidates’ application forms and/or resumes, the three interviewers of ABC can create, in their minds, a more complete picture of the applicants in terms of what is represented on the resumes and applications, and what the job requires. From example, by doing research before the interview, the interviewers will then know enough about their candidates to ask intelligent...

Challenge of Groups and Teams Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Challenge of Groups and Teams Paper - Essay Example They will be able to recognize the meaning of persistent communication building within the team. This training programme will include the sessions where the team mates will be informed of the techniques on how they can handle the diversity element within their team mate circles.This is the most significant, because of the fact that conflict tends to develop where the team mates are from varying backgrounds and culture. Because they are unable to understand each other's difference of speech, likes and dislikes, manners and rituals. The participants will be taught how to relate to their past workplace experiences with their current performances, in addition to how they can actually avoid any bad outcomes later. The team will be taught hot to function efficiently across operations, characteristics. How they can easily break the numerous communication barricades (Mackin, 2007, pg 109). The team mates should be imaginative enough to resolve compound problems. They should have the ability to assess the suppositions in relation to how individuals/teammates can function effectively as one. Developing the individuals self responsiveness in addition to substantiating their facets of self discernment.

Beck's Theory of Risk Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Beck's Theory of Risk Society - Essay Example Time and again, sociologists have studied societal behaviours and have coined different names for different societies. With the advent of the era of advanced modernity, societal thinkers went into further depths and coined even more comprehensive titles such as Affluent societies, Civic Societies, Open societies etc. One of the most prominent societal thinkers of this new modern era is Ulrich Beck. INTRODUCTION TO BECK AND RISK SOCIETY The German sociologist coined the name of Risk Society in his book ‘’ Toward a New Modernity’’ to explain that this era of advanced modernity is overwhelmed by the underlying risks that form an integral part of the future of these societies. Beck uses the term to identify societies that are risk averse and try to find out systematic methodologies to deal with risks induced by the modernisation itself. The term risk society is also analysed through the paradigms of a theoretical framework. This frame comprises of three interre lated ingredients: Individualization, Risk and reflexive modernity. The underlying basis of Beck to his argument is that modern society is exposed to a plenthora of risks and uncertainties. These uncertainties can include nuclear radiations, global warming, highly endemic diseases, invasive species and many other virulent phenomena (Adam, 2000). CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF BECKS THEORY: The historical theoretical work on societies centered around the distribution of world resources. Particularly those of the beginning of the modern era but with the new concept of risk aversiveness, Beck has given new paradigms to the societal risk theories. He argues that today, the focus of societies is not on the distribution of resources but on the distribution of risks and machinations of modernization, the risks prevalent in the contemporary scenario. He furthers his stance by saying that many potential risks are extricated from the concepts of boundaries and so these risks cannot be equitably distrib uted. Everyone therefore is equally at risk. Hence the concept of social classifications identified by the historical sociologists are no longer relevant according to Beck because risks cannot be equitably distributed and so all social classes are dissolved leading to individualization of the social actors. INDIVIDUALIZATION: According to Beck since all countries are equally exposed to the risks identified earlier, all entities, organizations, institutions and governments stand at the same level and so they are individualized at their own domains. Thus they have to take charge of the responsibilities and work on solutions to mitigating these risks. These individualized social actors identify the risks generated from technological innovation and new discoveries and they undertake action such as social movements and awareness campaigns to pressurize the innovators in being safety complaint. On the basis of this idea of individualization, Beck illustrates the vision of ‘New Moder nity’. He portrays a society where personal experimentation and cultural innovation are cherished at the back of high potential uncertainties. Beck considers both regressive and progressive elements to individualization REFLEXIVE MODERNIZATION Beck criticises modernity by attacking the presuppositions of the theory of modernity related socialization. He is of the opinion that many sociologists confuse modernity with industrialism. He finds progress in the overrated social theories which align linear

Comparison & Contrast between activities involved in Strategy Assignment

Comparison & Contrast between activities involved in Strategy Formulation versus Strategy implementation - Assignment Example Strategy formulation and implementation are two important aspects, which are interrelated. Strategy formulation and implementation are important facets of strategic management in a corporate for long-range performance. Strategy management comprises of three phases namely, diagnosis, formulation, and implementation (Hill and Jones 2012:20-21). Strategy formulation entails development of long-range plans for effective management of environmental opportunities and threats. This is in the light of corporate strengths and weaknesses. Hill and Jones (2012:20) state that formulation encompasses defining corporate mission, objectives, setting policy guidelines, and developing sound strategies. Formulators of strategy attach some estimate or risk to discernible alternatives. They appraise corporate strength and drawbacks with the resources, which are available. Formulation gives a clear set of recommendations in order for the corporate to accomplish its mission successfully (Hill and Jones 2012:20). Formulation of corporate strategy entails creating sustainable competitive advantages. This happens through giving prudent and practical solution to problems that may affect the corporate. Strategy implementation encompasses putting strategies, which corporate formulates into practice. This entails designing and management of systems in order to achieve best integration of people, processes, structures, and resources in order to attain organizational set goals. This is the step in which corporate converts its strategy into operationally effective action. Formulated strategy gains commitment of resources of organization or corporate. Strategy implementation aims at bringing sound ideas into practice. For implementation of corporate strategy to be effective, strategic managers in organization should support the chosen plan. Second, the strategic supervisors should allocate sufficient resources. Third, the formulated strategy

Factors Affecting Customer-Centric Website Design Essay

Factors Affecting Customer-Centric Website Design - Essay Example The paper concludes that website designers must exploit Cloud technologies and use teams that are multicultural and gender sensitive when designing their websites if they truly want to make their customers the centre of their work. Introduction The infrastructure known as the Internet has been at the heart of globalisation, flattening the world, and causing disruptive change in business bringing about new models and new products and services. At its core the web browser has been the most visible interface for consumers and businesses to enjoy these changes brought about by the Internet. With increasing use and time spent on the internet, and with the accompanying information overload, businesses are seeking to capture differentiate themselves through website designs that attract and engage customers. It is within this context that web designers are being tasked to come up with customer-centred websites. Customer-centric web design aims at creating a website that is intended to meet t he specific needs of customers as opposed to all web visitors. When considering customer-centred design, Schneider (2011) recommends focusing on the customer buying process. Garrett (2003) suggested that there are six key areas that the web designer will need to focus on to enhance the users’ experience: visual design, information architecture, information design, navigation design, interaction design, and content. Given the highly fluid nature of the internet and its associated technologies, web designers are finding it difficult to design the much desired customer-centric websites. In the next section, the paper begins by trying to understand why customer-centric web design is so important for any individual or organisation that is putting up or has a website. After that the paper discusses three factors that make achieving customer-centric web design difficult. First it discusses the effect of culture and gender, then the impact of the emergence of the mobile web and f inally the rise of prosumerism. The paper then concludes with suggestions on possible techniques that web designers could use to tackle the challenge posed by these three factors. Literature Review Importance of Customer-Centric Web Designs Naturally, one would ask why is achieving customer-centric web designs so important to warrant its discussion? Porter (2001) argued that the internet weakened industry profitability by influencing the five forces that underlie industry structure. The Internet reduced switching costs and shifted bargaining power to end consumers. The web essentially changed the dynamics of the relationship between organisations and their customers. The customer is now more empowered and more in control of the relationship than ever before (Perfetti, 2006). The web has not only made it easier for customers to find alternatives but it has also lowered the costs they incur either in searching for alternatives or moving to them. Customers only care about that whic h is important to them. This means that if they cannot find the products, services or information that brought them to a particular website, they will simply go elsewhere. To prevent customers from going elsewhere makes it necessary for organizations to design their websites with the customer as the core focus. Also, it has been found that there is a big distinction between the numbers of people who visit a website and those

Becoming an Informed Voter-Researching your congressional Delegation Essay

Becoming an Informed Voter-Researching your congressional Delegation - Essay Example Such as the state of Michigan and its 9th congressional district. Presently, the representatives of this district, who also work for the state as a whole, include Senator Carl Levin and Congressman Gary Peters. With Senator Levin being an elected official for the previous three decades, it would affirm the role having been played by both the Senator, as well as his political party. The Democratic Party would further cement that hold, with the election in 2008 of Congressman Peters. Both men in their respective elections, would face Republican candidates as their opponents and win. Thus, showing that the citizens of Michigan seek to find reliable change and are open, at least when they feel the time is right, to find it where and with whomever they are able to. Historically speaking, the citizenry of the 9th congressional district, have been represented by both the Republican Party, as well as the Democratic Party. With the different roles to be played by Senators and Congressman, the fact that Senator Levin will have been in officer for as long as he has, would lead many to decipher that either the electorate of Michigan feel more comfortable with a Democrat as their Senator for an extended period of time. Otherwise, there hadnt been a strong Democratic contender for the congressional seat in the 9th district until Congressman Peters decided to run on the Democratic platform. After observing the general rank and file of most of Michigans elected representatives, those of whom influence what occurs in the 9th district and by extension the state as a whole, it would appear presently that the Democrats would in fact hold an edge as of late. From a standpoint of advantage, the Democrats would have their own advantage presently. Not only having Senators in power from their political fold, along with Congressman Peters, the Governors mansion and the Lt. Governors positions are both presently held by confirmed Democrats. Whether its been recent change,

Factors Affecting Customer-Centric Website Design Essay

Factors Affecting Customer-Centric Website Design - Essay Example The paper concludes that website designers must exploit Cloud technologies and use teams that are multicultural and gender sensitive when designing their websites if they truly want to make their customers the centre of their work. Introduction The infrastructure known as the Internet has been at the heart of globalisation, flattening the world, and causing disruptive change in business bringing about new models and new products and services. At its core the web browser has been the most visible interface for consumers and businesses to enjoy these changes brought about by the Internet. With increasing use and time spent on the internet, and with the accompanying information overload, businesses are seeking to capture differentiate themselves through website designs that attract and engage customers. It is within this context that web designers are being tasked to come up with customer-centred websites. Customer-centric web design aims at creating a website that is intended to meet t he specific needs of customers as opposed to all web visitors. When considering customer-centred design, Schneider (2011) recommends focusing on the customer buying process. Garrett (2003) suggested that there are six key areas that the web designer will need to focus on to enhance the users’ experience: visual design, information architecture, information design, navigation design, interaction design, and content. Given the highly fluid nature of the internet and its associated technologies, web designers are finding it difficult to design the much desired customer-centric websites. In the next section, the paper begins by trying to understand why customer-centric web design is so important for any individual or organisation that is putting up or has a website. After that the paper discusses three factors that make achieving customer-centric web design difficult. First it discusses the effect of culture and gender, then the impact of the emergence of the mobile web and f inally the rise of prosumerism. The paper then concludes with suggestions on possible techniques that web designers could use to tackle the challenge posed by these three factors. Literature Review Importance of Customer-Centric Web Designs Naturally, one would ask why is achieving customer-centric web designs so important to warrant its discussion? Porter (2001) argued that the internet weakened industry profitability by influencing the five forces that underlie industry structure. The Internet reduced switching costs and shifted bargaining power to end consumers. The web essentially changed the dynamics of the relationship between organisations and their customers. The customer is now more empowered and more in control of the relationship than ever before (Perfetti, 2006). The web has not only made it easier for customers to find alternatives but it has also lowered the costs they incur either in searching for alternatives or moving to them. Customers only care about that whic h is important to them. This means that if they cannot find the products, services or information that brought them to a particular website, they will simply go elsewhere. To prevent customers from going elsewhere makes it necessary for organizations to design their websites with the customer as the core focus. Also, it has been found that there is a big distinction between the numbers of people who visit a website and those

Swedish Daddies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Swedish Daddies - Essay Example I am happy that it is possible for a woman to pursue both her career and dedicate some time for her family. However, striking a work-life balance is not an easy task considering the structure of many American companies. In my view, the American companies should follow the example of Sweden, Germany, and Iceland. This paper will provide a critical reflection on whether American companies should give both men and women an opportunity to balance work and family. Although I am currently undertaking my studies, I intend to have a remarkable balance between work and family. I am pursuing a career that interests me, but I believe that it is good to have a family. Therefore, in the future, I will have a family and I would want to be an influential mother to my children. Therefore, I have to strike a balance between my career and family life. When I begin looking for a job, I will consider companies with flexible working hours so that they can grant me an opportunity to participate positively in the growth of my children. In my view, a parent has a weighty responsibility of ensuring that children grow up to become responsible people. It is the role of a parent to set examples for children. I intend to be such a parent since I want to give my family the attention it deserves (Shaw, 2013). On the other hand, I want to develop a successful career because it will add to my level of satisfaction. In addition, to the financial stability that comes with stable finances that come with a successful career, I want to build a career that can help me make a positive impact in the world. A close analysis of the mindset of corporate America reveals that it does not allow women to balance both career and family commitments. Capitalism has overwhelmed the American society with companies pushing workers to perform more and more. With the increased emphasis on productivity, employees face the compulsion of working for long hours. Therefore, they have limited time to dedicate to their

The Mesopotamian Dbq (Outline) Essay Example for Free

The Mesopotamian Dbq (Outline) Essay Group 1:Mesopotamia * Document 1: This document describes the story of an innocent god that shared water with animals at a watering hole. The document describes the importance of water by referencing to the herds of wild game and Enkidu. The people that have created this document have put much emphasis on water systems. * Document 2: This document covers the spectrum of the river systems and agricultural growth in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus regions using a map. * Document 3: In this document, a picture depicts reed huts in the marshes of Southern Iraq. It appears that in this area, a large, agricultural-based city does not thrive here. This document stresses that a successful river system is the base of cities. * Document 5: This document describes Marduk’s journey and his conversation that he held with the gods. Overall it is about the creation of Babylon. In the first paragraph, it mentions the location of where Babylon would be locates (near the Tigris and the Euphrates river). This displays the importance that the Babylonians placed on river systems. A: Marduk thought of the Earth as a mirror image of heaven, because he strengthened and prepared the grounds to create holy precinct that would be the home of the gods. Group 2: Egypt * Document 2: This document covers the spectrum of the river systems and agricultural growth in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus regions using a map. * Document 6: This document shows the Pyramids of Giza located nearby the Nile. The mud blocks used to create the Pyramids must have been created from a nearby river system. Group 3: Indus River Valley * Document 2: This document covers the spectrum of the river systems and agricultural growth in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus regions using a map. * Document 4: In this document the formation of mud brick fortification suggests that the Indus river valley Harappa, India indicate that they had an accessible river system nearby. * Document 7: In this document, the walls appear to be made from mud brick, which is a sign that they had utilized a nearby water system. Although the document above delivers evidence of the effect of rivers in these regions, it would be beneficial to have additional documents. A chart of population growth over time of all three regions would suffice. It would be able to display the comparisons and differences in the growth of population within each region. A excerpt of an Egyptian or Harappan script that described the role that their river systems played in their society.

Simply Supported And Cantilever Beams

Simply Supported And Cantilever Beams A beam is a structural member which safely carries loads i.e. without failing due to the applied loads. We will be restricted to beams of uniform cross-sectional area. Simply Supported Beam A beam that rests on two supports only along the length of the beam and is allowed to deflect freely when loads are applied. Note see section A of unit. Cantilever Beam A beam that is supported at one end only. The end could be built into a wall, bolted or welded to another structure for means of support. Point or Concentrated Load A load which acts at a particular point along the length of the beam. This load is commonly called a force (F) and is stated in Newtons (N). A mass may be converted into a force by multiplying by gravity whose value is constant at 9.81 m/s2. Uniformly Distributed Load (UDL) A load which is spread evenly over a given length of the beam. This may be the weight of the beam itself. The UDL is quoted as Newtons per metre (N/m). Beam Failure If excessive loads are used and the beam does not have the necessary material properties of strength then failure will occur. Failure may occur in two ways:- Calculating Shear Forces (we must use the shear force rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are positive and upward forces are negative. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. Starting at point A and looking left: (note: the negative sign (-) means just to the left of the position and the positive sign (+) means just to the right of the position.) SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 6 kN An alternative method of drawing the shear force diagram is to follow the directions of each force on the line diagram.SFB = 6 kN SFB + = 6 kN SFC = 6 kN SFC + = 6 kN SFD = 6 kN SFD + = 6 12 = -6 kN SFE = 6 12 = -6 kN SFE + = 6 12 = -6 kN SFF = 6 12 = -6 kN SFF + = 6 12 = -6 kN SFG = 6 12 = -6 kN SFG + = 6 12 + 6 = 0 kN Note: the shear force at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. Calculating Bending Moments (we must use the bending moment rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. section F F section F + F + Hogging Beam Sagging Beam Starting at point A and looking left: BMA = 0 kNm BMB = (6 x 1) = 6 kNm BMC = (6 x 2) = 12 kNm BMD = (6 x 3) = 18 kNm BME = (6 x 4) + ( -12 x 1) = 12 kNm BMF = (6 x 5) + ( -12 x 2) = 6 kNm BMG = (6 x 6) + ( -12 x 3) = 0 kNm Note: the bending moment at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. The following page shows the line, shear force and bending moment diagrams for this beam. Simply Supported Beam with Point Load 6 m F E D C G B A 6 kN 6 kN F =12 kN Shear Force Diagram (kN) 0 0 -6 6 0 Line Diagram 12 12 18 6 0 6 Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) Max Tensile Stress SAGGING (+ve bending) Max Compressive Stress F F A maximum bending moment of 18 kNm occurs at position D. Note the shear force is zero at this point. Simply Supported Beam with Distributed Load UDL = 2 kN/m F E D C G B A 6 m RA The force from a UDL is considered to act at the UDL mid-point. e.g. if we take moments about D then the total force from the UDL (looking to the left) would be: (2 x 3) = 6 kN. This force must be multiplied by the distance from point D to the UDL mid point as shown below. e.g. Take moments about D, then the moment would be: (-6 x 1.5) = -9 kNm 1.5m UDL = 2 kN/m D C B A 3 m Taking moments about point D (looking left) We must first calculate the reactions RA and RG. We take moments about one of the reactions to calculate the other, therefore to find RA: Take moments about RG ÃŽ £Clockwise moments (CM) = ÃŽ £Anti-clockwise moments (ACM) RA x 6 = 2 x 6 x 3 RA = 6 kN now, ÃŽ £Upward Forces = ÃŽ £Downward Forces RA + RG = 2 x 6 6 + RG = 12 RG = 6 kN section F + F F F + Calculating Shear Forces (we must use the shear force rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are positive and upward forces are negative. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. Starting at point A and looking left: (note: the negative sign (-) means just to the left of the position and the positive sign (+) means just to the right of the position.) SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 6 kN SFB = 6 (21) = 4 kN SFB + = 6 (21) = 4 kN SFC = 6 (22) = 2 kN SFC + = 6 (22) = 2 kN SFD = 6 (23) = 0 kN SFD + = 6 (23) = 0 kN SFE = 6 (24) = -2 kN SFE + = 6 (24) = -2 kN SFF = 6 (25) = -4 kN SFF + = 6 (25) = -4 kN SFG = 6 (26) = -6 kN SFG + = 6 (26) + 6 = 0 kN Note: the shear force at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. Calculating Bending Moments (we must use the bending moment rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. section F F section F + F + Hogging Beam Sagging Beam Starting at point A and looking left: BMA = 0 kNm BMB = (6 x 1) + (-2 x 1 x 0.5) = 5 kNm BMC = (6 x 2) + (-2 x 2 x 1) = 8 kNm BMD = (6 x 3) + (-2 x 3 x 1.5) = 9 kNm BME = (6 x 4) + (-2 x 4 x 2) = 8 kNm BMF = (6 x 5) + + (-2 x 5 x 2.5 = 5 kNm BMG = (6 x 6) + + (-2 x 6 x 3) = 0 kNm Note: the bending moment at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. The following page shows the line, shear force and bending moment diagrams for this beam. Simply Supported Beam with Distributed Load 4 2 0 -2 -4 UDL = 2 kN/m 6 m F E D C G B A Shear Force Diagram (kN) 0 0 -6 6 0 Line Diagram 8 8 9 5 0 Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) 5 6 kN 6 kN Max Tensile Stress SAGGING (+ve bending) Max Compressive Stress F F A maximum bending moment of 9 kNm occurs at position D. Note the shear force is zero at this point. Simply Supported Beam with Point Loads 6 m F E D C G B A RA RG F = 15 kN F = 30 kN We must first calculate the reactions RA and RG. We take moments about one of the reactions to calculate the other, therefore to find RA: Take moments about RG ÃŽ £Clockwise moments (CM) = ÃŽ £Anti-clockwise moments (ACM) RA x 6 = (15 x 4) + (30 x 2) RA = 20 kN now, ÃŽ £Upward Forces = ÃŽ £Downward Forces RA + RG = 15 + 30 20 + RG = 45 RG = 25 kN section F + F F F + Calculating Shear Forces (we must use the shear force rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are positive and upward forces are negative. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. Starting at point A and looking left: (note: the negative sign (-) means just to the left of the position and the positive sign (+) means just to the right of the position.) SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 20 kN SFB = 20 kN SFB + = 20 kN SFC = 20 kN SFC + = 20 -15 = 5 kN SFD = 20 -15 = 5 kN SFD + = 20 -15 = 5 kN SFE = 20 -15 = 5 kN SFE + = 20 -15 30 = -25 kN SFF = 20 -15 30 = -25 kN SFF + = 20 -15 30 = -25 kN SFG = 20 -15 30 = -25 kN SFG + = 20 -15 30 + 25 = 0 kN Note: the shear force at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. Calculating Bending Moments (we must use the bending moment rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. section F F section F + F + Hogging Beam Sagging Beam Starting at point A and looking left: BMA = 0 kNm BMB = (20 x 1) = 20 kNm BMC = (20 x 2) = 40 kNm BMD = (20 x 3) + (-15 x 1) = 45 kNm BME = (20 x 4) + (-15 x 2) = 50 kNm BMF = (20 x 5) + (-15 x 3) + (-30 x 1) = 25 kNm BMG = (20 x 6) + (-15 x 4) + (-30 x 2) = 0 kNm Note: the bending moment at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. The following page shows the line, shear force and bending moment diagrams for this beam. 0 20 -25 0 Shear Force Diagram (kN) 5Simply Supported Beam with Point Loads 6 m F E D C G B A 20 kN 25 kN F = 15 kN F = 30 kN Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) 0 0 45 40 20 50 25 Max Tensile Stress SAGGING (+ve bending) Max Compressive Stress F F A maximum bending moment of 50 kNm occurs at position E. Note the shear force is zero at this point. Simply Supported Beam with Point and Distributed Loads (1) 6 m F E D C G B A RA RG 15 kN 30 kN UDL = 10 kN/m We must first calculate the reactions RA and RG. We take moments about one of the reactions to calculate the other, therefore to find RA: Take moments about RG ÃŽ £Clockwise moments (CM) = ÃŽ £Anti-clockwise moments (ACM) RA x 6 = (15 x 4) + (10 x 2 x 3) + (30 x 2) RA = 30 kN now, ÃŽ £Upward Forces = ÃŽ £Downward Forces RA + RG = 15 + (10 x 2) + 30 30 + RG = 65 RG = 35 kN section F + F F F + Calculating Shear Forces (we must use the shear force rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are positive and upward forces are negative. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. Starting at point A and looking left: (note: the negative sign (-) means just to the left of the position and the positive sign (+) means just to the right of the position.) SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 30 kN SFB = 30 kN SFB + = 30 kN SFC = 30 kN SFC + = 30 15 = 15 kN SFD = 30 15 (10 x 1) = 5 kN SFD + = 30 15 (10 x 1) = 5 kN SFE = 30 15 (10 x 2) = -5 kN SFE + = 30 15 (10 x 2) 30 = -35 kN SFF = 30 15 (10 x 2) 30 = -35 kN SFF + = 30 15 (10 x 2) 30 = -35 kN SFG = 30 15 (10 x 2) 30 = -35 kN SFG + = 30 15 (10 x 2) 30 + 35 = 35 kN Note: the shear force at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. Calculating Bending Moments (we must use the bending moment rule). When looking right of a section : downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. When looking left of a section: downward forces are negative and upward forces are positive. section F F section F + F + Hogging Beam Sagging Beam Starting at point A and looking left: BMA = 0 kNm BMB = (30 x 1) = 30 kNm BMC = (30 x 2) = 60 kNm BMD = (30 x 3) + (-15 x 1) + (-10 x 1 x 0.5) = 70 kNm BME = (30 x 4) + (-15 x 2) + (-10 x 2 x 1) = 70 kNm BMF = (30 x 5) + (-15 x 3) + (-10 x 2 x 2) + (-30 x 1) = 35 kNm BMG = (30 x 6) + (-15 x 4) + (-10 x 2 x 3) + (-30 x 2) = 0 kNm Notes: the bending moment at either end of a simply supported beam must equate to zero. The value of the maximum bending moment occurs where the shear force is zero and is therefore still unknown (see Shear Force diagram). The distance from point A to this zero SF point must be determined as follows:- x = 2 15 20 x = 1.5 m Total distance from point A = 2 + 1.5 = 3.5 m therefore, BM max = (30 x 3.5) + (-15 x 1.5) + (-10 X 1.5 x 0.75) = 71.25 kNm The following page shows the line, shear force and bending moment diagrams for this beam. 70 71.25 35 30 60 70 0 0 Simply Supported Beam with Point and Distributed Loads (1) 2 m x 30 -5 Shear Force Diagram (kN) 0 -35 15 0 6 m F E D C G B A 30 kN 35 kN 15 kN 30 kN UDL = 10 kN/m 20 kN Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) Max Tensile Stress SAGGING (+ve bending) Max Compressive Stress F F A maximum bending moment of 71.25 kNm occurs at a distance 3.5 m from position A. Simply Supported Beam with Point and Distributed Loads (2) 1 m RB 12 m E D C F B A 8 kN RE UDL = 6 kN/m UDL = 4 kN/m 12 kN We must first calculate the reactions RB and RE. We take moments about one of the reactions to calculate the other, therefore to find RB. Take moments about RE ÃŽ £Clockwise moments (CM) = ÃŽ £Anti-clockwise moments (ACM) (RBx10)+(6x1x0.5) = (4 x 4 x 9) + (8 x 7) + (12 x 3) + (6 x 3 x 1.5) RB = 26 kN now, ÃŽ £Upward Forces = ÃŽ £Downward Forces RB + RE = (4 x 4) + 8 + 12 + (6 x 4) 26 + RE = 60 RE = 34 kN Calculating Shear Forces Starting at point A and looking left: SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 0 kN SFB = -4 x 1 = -4 kN SFB + = (-4 x 1) + 26 = 22 kN SFC = (-4 x 4) + 26= 10 kN SFC + = (-4 x 4) + 26 8 = 2 kN SFD = (-4 x 4) + 26 8 = 2 kN SFD + = (-4 x 4) + 26 8 12 = -10 kN SFE = (-4 x 4) + 26 8 12 (6 x 3) = -28 kN SFE + = (-4 x 4) + 26 8 12 (6 x 3) + 34 = 6 kN SFF = (-4 x 4) + 26 8 12 (6 x 4) + 34 = 0 kN SFF + = (-4 x 4) + 26 8 12 (6 x 4) + 34 = 0 kN Calculating Bending Moments Starting at point A and looking left: BMA = 0 kNm BMB = (-4 x 1 x 0.5) = -2 kNm BM 2m from A = (-4 x 2 x 1) + (26 x 1) = 18 kNm BM 3m from A = (-4 x 3 x 1.5) + (26 x 2) = 34 kNm BMC = (-4 x 4 x 2) + (26 x 3) = 46 kNm BMD = (-4 x 4 x 6) + (26 x 7) + (-8 x 4) = 54 kNm BM 9m from A = (-4 x 4 x 7) + (26 x 8) + (-8 x 5) + (-12 x 1) + (-6 x 1 x 0.5) = 41 kNm BM 9m from A = (-4 x 4 x 8) + (26 x 9) + (-8 x 6) + (-12 x 2) + (-6 x 2 x 1) = 22 kNm BME = (-4 x 4 x 9) + (26 x 10) + (-8 x 7) + (-12 x 3) + (-6 x 3 x 1.5) = -3 kNm BMF = (-4 x 4 x 10) + (26 x 11) + (-8 x 8) + (-12 x 4) + (-6 x 4 x 2) + (34 x 1) = 0 kNm Point of Contraflexure At any point where the graph on a bending moment diagram passes through the 0-0 datum line (i.e. where the BM changes sign) the curvature of the beam will change from hogging to sagging or vice versa. Such a point is termed a Point of Contraflexure or Inflexion. These points are identified in the following diagram. It should be noted that the point of contraflexure corresponds to zero bending moment. Turning Points The mathematical relationship between shear force and corresponding bending moment is evidenced on their respective graphs where the change of slope on a BM diagram aligns with zero shear on the complementary shear force diagram. Thus, at any point on a BM diagram where the slope changes direction from upwards to downwards or vice versa, all such Turning Points occur at positions of Zero Shear. Turning points are also identified in the following diagram. Simply Supported Beam with Point and Distributed Loads (2) 1 m 26 kN 12 m E D C F B A 8 kN 34 kN UDL = 6 kN/m UDL = 4 kN/m 12 kN 2 6 2 -4 22 -10 Shear Force Diagram (kN) 0 -28 10 0 F F SAGGING (+ve bending) -3 22 41 54 46 34 18 -2 Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) 0 0 F F HOGGING (-ve bending) Points of Contraflexure The maximum bending moment is equal to 54 kNm and occurs at point D where the shear force is zero. Turning points occur at -2 kNm and -3 kNm. Cantilever Beam with Point Load 6 m F E D C G B A RA 12 kN Free End Fixed End In this case there is only one unknown reaction at the fixed end of the cantilever, therefore: ÃŽ £Upward Forces = ÃŽ £Downward Forces RA = 12 kN Calculating Shear Forces Starting at point A and looking left: SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 12 kN SFB = 12 kN SFB + = 12 kN SFC = 12 kN SFC + = 12 kN SFD = 12 kN SFD + = 12 kN SFE = 12 kN SFE + = 12 kN SFF = 12 kN SFF + = 12 kN SFG = 12 kN SFG + = 12 12 = 0 kN Note: the shear force at either end of a cantilever beam must equate to zero. Calculating Bending Moments NB for simplicity at this stage we shall always look towards the free end of the beam. Starting at fixed end, point A, and looking right towards the free end: (the same results may be obtained by starting at point G and looking right) BMA = -12 x 6 = -72 kNm BMB = -12 x 5 = -60 kNm BMC = -12 x 4 = -48 kNm BMD = -12 x 3 = -36 kNm BME = -12 x 2 = -24 kNm BMF = -12 x 1 = -12 kNm BMG = 0 kNm Notes: the maximum bending moment in a cantilever beam occurs at the fixed end. In this case the 12kN force in the beam is trying to bend it downwards, (a clockwise moment). The support at the fixed end must therefore be applying an equal but opposite moment to the beam. This would be 72 kNm in an anti-clockwise direction. See the following diagram. The value of the bending moment at the free end of a cantilever beam will always be zero. -12 -24 -36 -48 -60 -72 Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) 0 0 12 125 Shear Force Diagram (kN) 0 0 72 kNm 72 kNm 6 m F E D C G B A 12 kN 12 kN The following shows the line, shear force and bending moment diagrams for this beam. F F HOGGING (-ve bending) Max Tensile Stress Max Compressive Stress A maximum bending moment of -72 kNm occurs at position A. Cantilever Beam with Distributed Load UDL = 2 kN/m 6 m F E D C G B A RA To calculate the unknown reaction at the fixed end of the cantilever: ÃŽ £Upward Forces = ÃŽ £Downward Forces RA = 2 x 6 RA = 12 kN Calculating Shear Forces Starting at point A and looking left: SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 12 kN SFB = 12 (2 x 1) = 10 kN SFB + = 12 (2 x 1) = 10 kN SFC = 12 (2 x 2) = 8 kN SFC + = 12 (2 x 2) = 8 kN SFD = 12 (2 x 3) = 6 kN SFD + = 12 (2 x 3) = 6 kN SFE = 12 (2 x 4) = 4 kN SFE + = 12 (2 x 4) = 4 kN SFF = 12 (2 x 5) = 2 kN SFF + = 12 (2 x 5) = 2 kN SFG = 12 (2 x 6) = 0 kN SFG + = 12 (2 x 6) = 0 kN Note: the shear force at either end of a cantilever beam must equate to zero. Calculating Bending Moments Starting at fixed end, point A, and looking right towards the free end: (the same results may be obtained by starting at point G and looking right) BMA = -2 x 6 x 3 = -36 kNm BMB = -2 x 5 x 2.5 = -25 kNm BMC = -2 x 4 x 2 = -16 kNm BMD = -2 x 3 x 1.5 = -9 kNm BME = -2 x 2 x 1 = -4 kNm BMF = -2 x 1 x 0.5 = -1 kNm BMG = 0 kNm The following page shows the line, shear force and bending moment diagrams for this beam. Cantilever Beam with Distributed Load8 6 4 2 36 kNm 36 kNm 12 105 Shear Force Diagram (kN) 0 0 -1 -4 -9 -16 -25 -36 Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) 0 0 6 m F E D C G B A 12 kN UDL = 2 kN/m F F HOGGING (-ve bending) Max Tensile Stress Max Compressive Stress A maximum bending moment of -36 kNm occurs at position A. Cantilever Beam with Point and Distributed Loads RG 2 m 10 kN B C D E A F G 4 m UDL = 10 kN/m To calculate the unknown reaction at the fixed end of the cantilever: ÃŽ £Upward Forces = ÃŽ £Downward Forces RG = (10 x 6) + 10 RG = 70 kN Calculating Shear Forces Starting at point A and looking left: SFA = 0 kN SFA + = 0 kN SFB = -10 x 1 = -10 kN SFB + = -10 x 1 = -10 kN SFC = -10 x 2 = -20 kN SFC + = (-10 x 2) + (-10) = -30 kN SFD = (-10 x 3) + (-10) = -40 kN SFD + = (-10 x 3) + (-10) = -40 kN SFE = (-10 x 4) + (-10) = -50 kN SFE + = (-10 x 4) + (-10) = -50 kN SFF = (-10 x 5) + (-10) = -60 kN SFF + = (-10 x 5) + (-10) = -60 kN SFG = (-10 x 6) + (-10) = -70 kN SFG + = (-10 x 6) + (-10) + 70 = 0 kN Note: the shear force at either end of a cantilever beam must equate to zero. Calculating Bending Moments Starting at point A, and looking left from the free end: (the same results may be obtained by starting at point G and looking left) BMA = 0 kNm BMB = -10 x 1 x 0.5 = -5 kNm BMC = -10 x 2 x 1 = -20 kNm BMD = (-10 x 3 x 1.5) + (-10 x 1) = -55 kNm BME = (-10 x 4 x 2) + (-10 x 2) = -100 kNm BMF = (-10 x 5 x 2.5) + (-10 x 3) = -155 kNm BMG = (-10 x 6 x 3) + (-10 x 4) = -220 kNm The following page shows the line, shear force and bending moment diagrams for this beam. 70 kN 2 m 10 kN B C D E A F G 4 m UDL = 10 kN/m 0 0 Shear Force Diagram (kN) -60 -70 -10 -20 -40 -50 220 kNm 220 kNm -30Cantilever Beam with Point and Distributed Loads 0 0 Bending Moment Diagram (kNm) -220 -5 -20 -55 -100 -155 F F HOGGING (-ve bending) Max Tensile Stress Max Compressive Stress A maximum bending moment of -220 kNm occurs at position G.

The Sound of Music Essay -- Film Musicals Movies

The Sound of Music In 1965 Robert Wise presented the world with his smashing box office hit film, The Sound of Music. Over time it has become known as one of the most loved and well-known musicals of all time. Shortly after its release it won many Academy awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Sound, Best Adapted Score, Best Film Editing, Best Film-Musical, Best Color Cinematography, and Best Costume design (Freiden par3). The movie is based upon the true story of the VonTrapp family and allows its audience to relive their family experience as well as their flight from Nazism just before the outbreak of World War Two. So why is it that even today, The Sound of Music is still the "most popular movie-musical ever made?" (20th Century Fox). The musical film presented a sound that "inspired a generation," giving them romance, longing and love. (20th Century Fox). However, there is certainly more than meets the eye to this 1965 American production of Austria's VonTrapp family. By taking a closer look at the movie we find that, not only did this smashing box office hit present us with a classic tale of romance and adventure, but it also inadvertently challenged us to wonder if The Sound of Music was Austria’s chance to exonerate itself from its past involvement in Nazism. In order to question whether or not this movie is an opportunity for Austria to exonerate itself, we first need to understand how the movie creates an Americanized image of Austria's role in Nazism. An American audience will most certainly be affected by this movie in a different way than will a German or Austrian audience who have been personally involved in will. Because most Americans are not personally attached to ... ...s/sound-of-music.html>. Gruber, Ruth E. â€Å"Viennese Warily Confront Austria’s role in World War II.† The Jewish Bulletin. 1996. San Francisco Jewish Community Publications Inc. 11 November 2001. <http://www.jewishsf.com>. Perez, R.H. â€Å"Timebase 1938.† Humanitas International. 2001. 5 November 2001. <http://humanitas-international.org/showcase/chronography/timebase/1938tbse.htm>. Starkman, Ruth A. â€Å"American Imperialism or Local Protectionism? The Sound of Music (1965) Fails in Germany and Austria.† Historical Journal of Film, Radio and Television 20 (1997): 63. MAS ULTRA- School Edition. Palni SiteSearch. Goshen College Good Library. 30 October 2001. Webster, Brian. â€Å"Review—The Sound of Music.† Apollo Guide. 2000. Apollo Communications Ltd. 10 October 2001. <http://www.apolloguide.com>. 2oth Century Fox. The Sound of Music. 1965. 9 November 2001.

My Philosophy on Teaching :: Education Teachers Learning Classroom Essays

My Philosophy on Teaching It became clear to me that I wanted to become an Elementary teacher when I was given the opportunity to attend Hinton Elementary School as a student volunteer to read to the first grade class during my junior year of High School. It was on this day that I realized that teaching is what I truly want to do with my life. Given the opportunity to read to the first graders and being able to get to know each of them filled a special place in my heart. After reading a few of my favorite childhood books to the first graders, I gave them the opportunity to read and sound out some of their favorite books to me. I am very grateful that I was given such an opportunity, such an eye opening experience – which helped me to realize that this is what I want to do with my life – Teach. Every teacher has an opinion as to what the best teaching method is. While each method has many advantages and disadvantages, I have chosen direct instruction as my main teaching method. To me, it seems to be more direct and easier to understand for elementary students. Direct teaching is also known as systematic, active, or explicit teaching. In this set, the teacher is a strong leader that develops, structures and teaches by having an academic focus point. With the emphasis on the importance of a structural lesson, the presentation of new information is followed be student practice and teacher feedback. A teacher must have a lot of patience with the younger children. It is often the case that students will fall behind because they have not yet mastered the basic skills of the given subject. With the direct teaching process, the children are able to receive several opportunities to enhance their learning and make them understand subjects more clearly. By refreshi ng their memories, using repetition, giving homework, and asking questions, a teacher can better understand the children and allow them to learn in a proper manner. The younger children can learn, remember and understand instead of just memorizing the information to get through a test and forgetting it after the test is over.

Dialog in a cafeteria near the office of Victoria and Abigail

One Saturday afternoon in a cafeteria near the office of Victoria and Abigail, they scheduled themselves to unwind and take a look to what really is going on in the realm they are into. Abigail unconsciously uttered what tremendous circumstance that is happening around her in the office and she simply takes into account the attitude of being bullshit is scattered in their working area, â€Å"As I join my officemate, I can’t help but just listen to the bullshit topic they are apt to† â€Å"You know, that was so rampant in the environment that we have, isn’t it? † Victoria shows her feelings as she grabs her cup of coffee.The two girls relate with each other as they exchanged insight as regards to the huge fuzz of bullshit thing. Abigail exemplify â€Å"You know girl, the thought of being bullshit lies on the fact that it is beyond the lies that we make, it is more alarming because you are doing beyond what you think is true† â€Å"What you mean Abig ail? † â€Å"What I am trying to embark here is that the verity that you lie, you actually knew that you are doing the wrong thing but it is different when you are talking about something without caring whether it is factual or not† Abigail expounds as she has a second thought behind her mind what is Victoria is thinking about.â€Å"What are you thinking about? † Abigail asked. Victoria responded, â€Å"Well, nothing besides the realization of what you are trying to implore†. â€Å"In actuality Victoria, it is more alarming than we think how being bullshit destruct one’s personality†, Abigail is provoking the feelings of Victoria towards the subject matter. â€Å"You know girl, the air in our environment in the office is very unscrupulous† Victoria is listening intensely to what Abigail is about to share. Abigail continues, â€Å"One of my officemates is claiming that she is rich and to the point that she is acting like a real oneâ₠¬ Ã¢â‚¬Å"Really, how come you say that? † â€Å"It was quite obvious that she is not and she is just making a bullshit gesture. You know, there were times that we are just talking about our experiences in the office as we handle our client and answering their queries, all of a sudden she will make a huge fuzz out of nowhere about her new condominium†. Abigail added, â€Å"It’s not that we are envious of her but obviously, it is not related to the topic most especially, we are all aware that it is not true and she is just acting like a rich fellow† â€Å"That was terrible! † Victoria reacted.â€Å"Absolutely, that’s why we usually get annoyed of her actions† Abigail really wanted to hear Victoria’s insights as to the matter of bullshit because in the realm they are distressing, it is quite everywhere and everybody is getting into the angle of the phenomenon. As the conversation of the two becomes intense, they did not notice tha t they spend almost two hours just tackling what bullshit in their eyes is. Of course, the subject matter is truly controversial because we can never deny the fact how we usually use such word to our daily encounters in our lives.Going back to the cafeteria where Abigail and Victoria are exchanging their views, Victoria cannot take holding her emotions and reacted completely to what was Abigail is talking about earlier. She never hesitated to counterfeit what was Abigail’s scrutiny in relation to bullshit measures. â€Å"I agree with you when you say that it happens in our nature nowadays that bullshit is everywhere and we cannot do anything sometimes even if we condemn the act†, Victoria uttered.Abigail is listening on what Victoria is about to take note. â€Å"Bullshit was established in the context of the discourse and not in intentions of the speaker per se† Victoria exemplifies as she eagerly expound what she is thinking as Abigail is talking earlier. Abiga il is listening attentively to Victoria as she sips her coffee, accordingly she reacted â€Å"what views you are apt to when you mention that it is in the context of the beholder’s speech and not in the intention of the speaker that bullshit arises? †Victoria act in response â€Å"consider the norms of politics as those in authority consistently delivering how their nations are coping with the tremendous change in this time and age, however they fail to take a look on several issues of corruption that tends to depreciate the stability of their nation. The bullshit context of the authority’s approach to changing nation despite their unintentional gesture was quite dishonest and considered a bullshit act. Parallel to this, acting inappropriately by holding into corruption was undeniably unprincipled†It seems that the two girls are showing their perception to the phenomenal acts of being bullshit. Indeed, the different approach that they believed in truly de picts a sense of formulating a specific theory towards the anomaly of being bullshit. Abigail is wondering how deep Victoria’s attitude towards their subject matter. She cannot hide in her inner self if at some point in her conversation with her friend that their views meet. It is good to take note the buzz about being bullshit nowadays, may it be on the fact that you acted the wrong and unaccepted way or the fact that your views contributes on being a bullshit material.Either way, the theories at hand might contribute to the understanding of what this is all about. As the two girls continues to talk about what they encounter in their work and in the nation that they belong, they can’t hinder themselves to weigh who has the most reasonable consideration to what they are talking about. Abigail insisted that by being bullshit, it come to light the fact that you neglect what is true and believe in yourself that you are doing the right thing even if you just decoded what r eally is true and what is not.On another account, Victoria uttered that it goes with the content of what you say that makes person a bullshit one. Unintentionally we do and say things which are oppose to our norms but we do not intend to sound like bullshit but by not controlling our selves, we make project such attitude. In realism, the perception of Abigail matters a she define bullshit by being neglect able of what is right and wrong. It has been said that it is most dangerous to be bullshit than to make lies and this is what Abigail shares to her friend. As they exchanged their views, the girls got enlightened by their topic and they just bonded all night long.

Global Civil Society Essay

Over the years the civil societies have increasingly played a major role in global governance. Their involvement has attracted a lot of attention where people are skeptical about what are global civil societies. The rate at which the global civil societies are emerging as well as their political role in the globe has received a lot of attention from scholars around the world. The big question has always been how the global social society which includes the social movement and not governmental organization can form a coalition and influence the global policies. Studies have also been focused on empirical as well as the normative perspective of the global civil societies. The normative perspective of these studies focus on whether the role of the global civil society is legitimate. Whether the global civil societies have a role in making global policies and policy making democratic has been the big question (Hofmann, 2005). With the current globalization and deregulation, the role of non governmental organizations and civil movement is becoming increasingly important in the making of global policies. There is increasingly high number of key policies directly affecting a country that is made outside the state where the process is likely to be undemocratic. For this reason many of the scholars view global civil society as a potential force that is essential in making the globalization process more civilized and democratic (Colas, 2002). Global Civil Society Over the years, the meaning of civil society and their political influence has varied from time to time. Moreover, they also vary theoretically and activities undertaken from place to place. While today civil societies are separate from the states, the political thought in the 16th century did not separate the civil societies from the state. In the 17th century, civil societies included profit making organization which is not the case today. The global civil society can be seen as the political space where nonprofit making organization voluntarily and deliberately influences the governance of the society. The voluntary and deliberate acts of the civil societies influence the rules which include the policies, norms and structures that are essential in the governance of the society. The actions of the civil societies focus on both the formal and informal structures in the society. For example, they may focus on the legislation as well as the gender roles in the society or the general social order (Scholte, 2002). However, it is difficult to draw a line between the voluntary activities that influence governance and formal or market activities. For example, some civil societies are involved in the implementation of formal policies while some others are involved in business activities to raise money that is used in the funding of their campaigns. Moreover, there many cases of government and cooperate organization that have incorporated some civil societies. In pure terms, the activities of civil societies should not include or be related to quest for power which excludes political parties from the list or any monetary gains which excludes cooperate organizations and commercial media houses. The civil society therefore has several actors which includes academic institution civil movements, social advocates, lobby groups faith based organization, human rights advocates and social networks. Philanthropic organizations and organization that profit humanitarian aids are also civil societies (Scholte, 2002). However, political scientists have been skeptical about the definition of global civil society. Some scholars have disagreed with the general assumption that all civil societies that operate in different countries can be termed as global civil societies. These scholars have argued that considering transnational civil societies as global civil society is an attempt to include all non governmental organizations operating transitionally in the bracket. This will include the quasi Christian movements which are the remnants of missionaries from Europe operating in different parts of the world. These skeptics have suggested that global civil societies those civil organizations uphold universal values in the globalizing world while effectively using globalization to promote universal values. They view global civil societies as movements and organizations that use globalization to universalize the world (Anderson & Rieff, 2004). Some political scientists have also been skeptical about the values symbolized by global civil societies and their supporters. Rather that taking democracy as the basic value in the society, majority of the global civil societies appear to have taken human rights as the basic society value. Despite this the democracy in the world is greatly dependent on the role of the global civil societies. As the civil societies promote human rights, it is important to note the loopholes for human rights violation created by the democracy deficit that is present in many parts of the world. However, it is indisputable that although the global civil societies have focused on promotion of human rights, they have played an important role in the support of democracy. Some people have argued that the civil societies have concentrated more on human rights in the global society at the expense of democracy but it is evident that the two values complement each other and are both indispensable in every society (Anderson & Rieff, 2004). Examples of global civil societies that have taken an active role in global governance are the non governmental organizations. These organizations were not active in the world affairs until the United Nations was founded in 1945. The formation of the United Nations introduced provisions that made private civil organizations stronger and formal as well as enhancing the role of the role of the United Nations in the social and economic affairs of the world. There are numerous organizations all over the world that are described as non governmental organizations. Some of them operate as transnational organization while other operates at the national level. However, these non governmental organizations have fundamental characteristics. They are all independent from political influence or control by the state. There are other characteristics that exclude some organization from NGOs such as political parties, profit making organizations, and criminal groups. These conditions must be met for the organization to be recognized by the United Nations as a non governmental organization. However, some recognized non governmental organizations have been linked to political parties while many others are involved in commercial activities such as selling publications and consultancy to generate income. Nonetheless, there are no cases where non governmental organizations are incorporated in the government bureaucracy, in political parties or commercial organizations. NGOs therefore are organizations that work together with a common goal and do not aim at attaining political power, accumulating wealth or being involved in criminal activities (Willets, 2006). Global Governance Global governance is one of the most important aspects of the modern world as a result of globalization. It is a political and social interaction between nationals and societies of the world with an aim of developing solutions to the problems facing a particular society or state as a result lack of compliance. Global governance has also been referred to as world governance. In the modern world, no societies can life under social and political exclusion from the rest of the world. The world societies are becoming more and more interdependent with the rise of globalization which is as a result of human societies interrelating with each other especially in international trade. This has created the need for global governance in the context of the global world which stipulates the regulations that govern the society at the global scale (Scholte, 2005). In simple terms, global governance is a stipulation of regulations that are set to organize different groups of people on a global scale. Historically, governance could not be separated from political authority and political institutions. The traditional definition of governance is based on the formal political institutions that organizes the relations between different societies and has the authority to enforce and implement policies. A formal global government with political structures and authority may not exist for global governance. Some scholars have therefore suggested that global governance is the act of managing the global affairs without a global formal government. It is a well organized cooperation between societies of the world with concrete arrangement used in solving problems. Many organizations are involved in global governances which includes principally the United Nations and global civil societies. Global governance involves formal institutions and processes as well as informal mechanisms and institutions that work together in complex environment. The collective interests of different societies, individuals, markets, nationals and organizations are articulated in the global governance while upholding the rights and obligations of individuals (Weiss, 1998). Democracy has been an important principle that governs the global governance. Democracy determines whether the exercise of power as well as the sources of power is legitimate. Legitimate exercise of power is mandated by the people being governed who have the democratic rights to determine how they will be governed. Moreover, the individuals or institutions that are given the political powers should be worth the confidence the society places on them. Democracy is important in the global governance to reduce the possibility of leaving important decisions affecting the world societies the world to some international undemocratic institutions which may not be legitimate. Global governance requires some levels of representation of the global societies from different states or administrative units who are elected directly by the society members to represent their interests. More importantly the role of global civil societies that promote human rights and democracy by influencing policy making is important in global governance (Scholte, 2007). The development of international organizations as a result of global governance has introduced vicious institutions in the world that make important decisions affecting the world societies. This has created some inadequacies in the ability of the global governance to meet the needs of the world society. This is basically due to absence of morality, economic powers, legal foundations, democracy and good leadership. The lack of adequate legitimacy due to lack of legal foundations is the major challenge that affects the ability of global governance to organize and manage the world societies. The inadequacies in global governance are an impediment to the ensuring fair play in the world with the rise of globalization 9 Van Rooy, 2004). Examples of global governance agencies include the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the World Trade Organization among others. These organizations were formed with the mandate of management of the social, economic and political affairs of the global world (Scholte, 2004). Global Civil Societies and Global Governance Democracy and accountability of any form of governance is essential. The case is not different in global governance. In governance guided by the principles of democracy and accountability, the leaders are answerable to their subjects for their good and bad acts. When democratic leaders perform well in their governance, they are supported by the general public. On the other hand, they are responsible for their errors and owe an explanation to the public which may force them to resign from office. However, there has been very little democracy and accountability when the arrangements in the global governance are considered. Over the years there has been unprecedented increase in the laws and institutions that affects societies in all over the world or in a given region of the world. Despite the increase in transnational policies, there regulation mechanisms are ineffective or inexistence. There is no democracy in the running of suprastate policies and institutions nor are the leaders accountable (Scholte, 2000). With this regard, there is a common belief that the global civil societies can save the situation. The world society who have been in one way or another affected by global governance due to lack of democracy and effectiveness believes that their help can only come from the organizations such as the united nations, the world trade organization and other global institutions that can influence the formulation and implementation of global policies. The disadvantages societies have also laid their hopes on global civil societies such as community based organizations, religious groups, think tanks, social and economic forums, trade unions, professional organizations and NGOs to increase their involvement in global governance (Wolf, 2006). Over the years, the civil societies have played an important role in influencing governance in the society. As the world changes the system of governance is also changing into a polycentric structure with the global and regional governance, state and substate governance. This has resulted into redirection of civil societies efforts from the traditional governance at the state level to other sites that have emerged in the complex society. The rise of globalization has made global governance inevitable which has created new needs for institutional accountability (Fraser, 2005). The involvement of global civil society in global governance has become an essential role of the civil society. A very good example is the anti globalization movement that protested against the International Monetary Fund, the World Trade Organization and the World Bank, think tanks and forums that have proposed various changes in the global economy as well as human right movements that have advocated for the enhancement of arms controls across the borders and management of conflicts in different parts of the world. An important role has also been played by women associations who have made numerous attempts with much success in the promotion on of gender sensitivity in the global society. In the rise of global environmental degradation, it is important to note the role of environmental movements who have played an important role in the formulation and implementation of strict global environmental regulations. Trade unions have also played an important role in the promotion of international standards in the workplace. There are a large number of civil societies that are involved in the promotion of health and development and have taken an active role in the management of funds allocated to healthcare. There are also involved in the control of diseases that are considered as transworld which includes Aids, malaria and other epidemics that require global attention. There are other global civil societies that are directly involved in global governance arrangements that affect vulnerable groups such as women, children and the consumers (Scholte, 2004). Majority of the global governance institutions and agencies have realized the importance of global civil society in effectively carrying out their roles and have devised different mechanisms that are intended to accommodate the civil societies initiatives. Many of the global governance structures have developed channels that improve communication with the public through their websites and other communication channels that are aimed at addressing the concerns raised by civil societies. The result has been more accountability and transparency as the global governance agencies release more and more information to the public through the civil societies. As a method of promoting democracy within, these agencies have created room for the participation of civil societies and interest groups in their activities including workshops and conferences. Briefings to the civil societies, appointment of liaison officials from the civil societies and adoption of guidelines in personnel recruitment as stipulated by interest civil group has also increased accountability in global governance. Some global governance bodies have had formal arrangement to incorporate civil societies and interest groups in the management of their affairs where they include them in their advisory boards and the process making and implementation processes (Scholte, 2004). An example of an active involvement of civil societies in the global governance is the briefing of the International Monetary Fund to over one thousand global civil society through a quarterly newsletter. This ensures that the regulatory body is accountable and effective in carrying out its mandate. The World Bank also ensures that the information on the activities of the agency is freely accessible especially to interest civil groups and the general public. The united nation is the largest and most influential global governance agency in the world. In every United Nations global summit, the views of the civil society is put into consideration with them holding a parallel forum in every summit. Notable global civil society includes the Non Governmental Liaison Service which works with different institutions in the United Nations and the International Labor Organization which represents workers organizations and trade unions. In the years 2003, the World Trade Organization noted the important role played by civil societies and appointed a civil society advisory board (Scholte, 2004). The civil societies have played an important role in the promotion of accountability, effectiveness and democracy in global governance. They have played an important role in the promotion of transparency in the global governance formal and informal structures (Rhodes 1997). They promote democratic governance by pressing the agencies to disclose more information on their activities. This has increased public visibility through mass media, publications and websites which makes these agencies more accountable for their activities. Civil societies not only advocate for transparency of global governance agencies but also effective transparency. They understand that releasing the information to the public is one thing and understanding the details is another thing (Scholte et al, 1999). Monitoring and review of global governance policy is also an important role of the civil societies in ensuring effective, accountable and democratic governance. They act as the public watchdogs in the formulation and implementation of the policies. They ensure that the agencies comply with the stipulated guidelines, the official resolutions and declarations. They have also been involved in the review of global governance policies and how they affect different societies of the world. These reviews have been instrumental in uncovering incompetent implementers, shortfalls and the dangers associated with such policies. The civil societies have also played a role in ensuring that the global governance structures and policies do not result into ethnic strife and uprising. This in many cases may result from the dissatisfaction of some society with the distribution and misuse of resources from global governance agencies such as the International Monetary Fund or the World Bank. The civil society has also created channels through which different societies can forward their concerns, promoted formal accountability and in general advanced democracy in global governance (Scholte, 2004). Conclusion The global societies have played an important role in the promotion of democracy in the national as well as the global governance. However, political scientists are skeptical about the definition of global civil societies. In the current wave of globalization, global governance has become an important phenomenon due to the need to organize the world society as a result of interdependence. The role of the civil society is therefore essential in ensuring that the activities of the governance agencies are effective, accountable and democratic. Bibliography: Anderson, K. and Rieff, D. (2004) ‘â€Å"Global Civil Society†: A Skeptical View’, in Anheier, Helmut, Marlies Glasius and Mary Kaldor (2004) (eds. ). Global Civil Society 2004/5. London: Sage. Colas, A. (2002) International Civil Society, Polity Press, Cambridge Fraser, N. (2005) ‘Reframing Justice in a Globalizing World’, New Left Review, 36; pp. 69-88. Hofmann, J. (2005) â€Å"(Trans-) Formations of Civil Society in Global Governance Contexts – Two case studies on the problem of self-organization†, in: Gunnar Folke Schuppert (Hrsg. ): Global Governance and the Role of Non-State Actors, Band 2 der Reihe „Schriften zur Governance-Forschungâ€Å", Nomos-Verlag: Baden-Baden Karns, M. & Mingst, K. (2004). International Organizations: The Politics and Processes of Global Governance, Lynne Rienner, Boulder. Rhodes, R. A. W. (1997) Understanding Governance: Policy Networks, Governance, Reflexivity and Accountability. Open University Press, Buckingham. Scholte, J. A. (2007). Civil Society and Legitimation of Global Governance. CSGR Working Paper No. 223/07. Scholte, J. A. (2005). Globalization: A Critical Introduction, Palgrave: Basinstoke. Scholte, J. A. (2004). Civil Society and Democratically Accountable Global Governance Government and Opposition Ltd, Blackwell Publishing, Oxford, UK: 9600 Garsington Road, Scholte, J. A. (2002) ‘Civil Society and Democracy in Global Governance’, Global Governance, 8, pp. 281-304. Scholte, J. , O’Brien, R. & Williams, M. (1999) ‘The WTO and Civil Society’, Journal of World

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the current jury system Essay

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the current jury system in the UK - Essay Example D submitted copies of these documents to an MP from the opposition camp so that the issue could be raised in parliament. D was charged in accordance with the Official Secrets Act. Despite the clear knowledge that D’s actions amounted to an offense, he was acquitted by the jury1. The case above presents convincing evidence that the jury system acts as a counter balance to politically motivated and other improper prosecutions. Although they do not reveal their reasons for acquitting or convicting, juries provide certainty of their actions and this increases public confidence. Juries can also act on their conscience in addition to relying on evidence. This has the advantage of delivering justice even where confident witnesses present biased evidence. Despite these advantages, the jury system as applied in the UK has several disadvantages. First, the jury system increases the costs incurred by courts. The group of jurors handling the case must be paid as well as the pool of jurors from which the jury has been selected. In addition, other court personnel are employed for the purposes of ministering to the jury during all stages of the case. Furthermore, the making of a verdict by one judge alone costs about  £1,000 per day while a jury’s verdict costs about  £7,400 per day, which is significantly more expensive. There is evidence of perverse verdicts in the UK jury system. This is where juries make decisions that are outright against the law. One case in point in relation to this is R v Owen. In this case, it was established that D fired a sawn off a gun at T because T had killed his son through careless driving. T had been sentenced to serve a term of 12 months. D felt this was not enough, the reason for his action. D was tried for intentional malicious wounding and attempted murder. However, he was acquitted by Maidstone