Management of depression for David Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Management of depression for David - Essay Example Further it will help him undertake measures to help in rehabilitating his father who is an alcoholic so that he can reform and shun his drinking habits. (Veronica, 2001) The purpose of the appraisal is to help David understand that his predicament can be over and he can be able to get through the tough times he is undergoing. It will also assist David in appreciating himself, accepting his current situations hence taking appropriate measurer to help solve them, assist him in understanding that sharing his problems with others is a healthy more which he should adopt by sharing his worries with some one he can trust, balance work and recreation, avoid reliance on things such as drugs and alcohol, accept his duties of care giving and parenting alone and help him manage his time effectively. Gough, N. (1992) Defines Enquiry based learning as a learner-centered approach that puts more emphasizes on higher order thinking skills. This occurs in several ways which assist the students to gain academic independence when it comes to self study. Some of them are problem solving, discovery methods, critical and creative activities e.t.c. all these takes place in the entire community including the classroom level. The learners are expected to arrive at solid conclusions regarding the self processed data on the question under discussion since the study is entirely self-centered. This is usually done in groups. For example, a group of fifteen students can gang up to discuss very practical oriented scenarios for instance they can discuss ways to help intellectually challenged students who are there in the society, they can also take a case of wife beating research on it and arrive at possible solution to the said vice, they can also take an individual in their midst research on drug abuse and arrive at comprehensive findings e.t.c. In our case we shall organize the fifteen of us(students) hold a small meeting whereby we will table the whole scenario of David so that it can be discussed amongst ourselves through personal research and own contributions. This will be a full research incorporating the collection of all the best research materials interpreting them and finally coming up with quality researched work. Our learning issues will basically dwell on the issues affecting the troubled David as to our scenario. Every member of our group is supposed to investigate matters in the scenario by fully researching on it after which we shall hold another discussion session and compare our researched work and later combine it for reliable results. To get the required resources Students will visit well stocked libraries which offer all sorts of learning books, journals, magazines, internet facilities among others. Enquiry based learning process is used to help the learners in developing relevant skills on how to successfully handle issues in their future, it helps them assess various scenarios, research on them thereby by acquiring vast knowledge to tackle such matters which counts greatly in their overall cognitive development. In the above case the process will help us to go through the clinical and theoretical measures on how to

Currency and Thai Baht Essay Example for Free

Currency and Thai Baht Essay Assessing Future Exchange Rate Movements 1. How are percentage changes in a currency’s value measured? Illustrate your answer numerically by assuming a change in the Thai baht’s value from a value of $0.022 to $0.026. ANSWER: The percentage change in a currency’s value is measured as follows: where S denotes the spot rate, and St −1 denotes the spot rate as of the earlier date. A positive percentage change represents appreciation of the foreign currency, while a negative percentage change represents depreciation. In the example provided, the percentage change in the Thai baht would be: That is, the baht would be expected to appreciate by 18.18%. 2. What are the basic factors that determine the value of a currency? In equilibrium, what is the relationship between these factors? ANSWER: The basic factors that determine the value of a currency are the supply of the currency for sale and the demand for the currency. A high level of supply of a currency generally decreases the currency’s value, while a high level of demand for a currency increases its value. In equilibrium, the supply of the currency equals the demand for the currency. 3. How might the relatively high levels of inflation and interest rates have affected the baht’s value? (Assume a constant level of U.S. inflation and interest rates.) ANSWER: The baht would be affected both by inflation levels and interest rates in Thailand relative to levels of these variables in the U.S. A high level of inflation tends to result in currency depreciation, as it would increase the Thai demand for U.S. goods , causing an increase in the Thai demand for dollars. Furthermore, a relatively high level of Thai inflation would reduce the U.S. demand for Thai goods, causing an increase in the supply of baht for sale. Conversely, the high level of interest rates in Thailand may cause appreciation of the baht relative to the dollar. A relatively high level of interest rates in Thailand would have rendered investments there more attractive for U.S. investors, causing an increase in the demand for baht. Furthermore, U.S. securities would have been less attractive to Thai investors, causing an increase in the supply of dollars for sale. However, investors might be unwilling to invest in baht-denominated securities if they are concerned about the potential depreciation of the baht that could result from Thailand’s inflation. 4. How do you think the loss of confidence in the Thai baht, evidenced by the withdrawal of funds from Thailand, affected the baht’s value? Would Blades be affected by the change in value, given the primary Thai customer’s commitment? ANSWER: In general, a depreciation in the foreign currency results when investors liquidate their investments in the foreign currency, increasing the supply of its currency for sale. Blades would probably be affected by the change in value even though its Thai customer’s commitment, as the sales are denominated in baht. Thus, the depreciation in the baht would have caused a conversion of the baht revenue into fewer U.S. dollars. 5. Assume that Thailand’s central bank wishes to prevent a withdrawal of funds from its country in order to prevent further changes in the currency’s value. How could it accomplish this objective using interest rates? ANSWER: If Thailand’s central bank wishes to prevent further depreciation in the baht’s value, it would attempt to increase the level of interest rates in Thailand. In turn, this would increase the demand for Thai baht by U.S. investors, as Thai securities would now seem more attractive. This would place upward pressure on the currency’s value. However, the high interest rates could reduce local borrowing and spending. 6. Construct a spreadsheet illustrating the steps Blades’ treasurer would need to follow in order to speculate on expected movements in the baht’s value over the next 30 days. Also show the speculative profit (in dollars) resulting from each scenario. Use both of Ben Holt’s examples to illustrate possible speculation. Assume that Blades can borrow either $10 million or the baht equivalent of this amount. Furthermore, assume that the following short-term interest rates (annualized) are available to Blades: Currency Dollars Thai baht Lending Rate 8.10% 14.80% Borrowing Rate 8.20% 15.40% ANSWER: Depreciation of the Baht from $0.022 to $0.020 1. Borrow Thai baht ($10,000,000/0.022) 2. Convert the Thai baht to dollars ($454,545,454.50 million Ãâ€" $0.022). 3. Lend the dollars at 8.10% annualized, which represents a 0.68% return over the 30-day period [computed as 8.10% Ãâ€"(30/360)]. After 30 days, Blades would receive ($10,000,000 Ãâ€" (1 + .0068)) 4. Use the proceeds of the dollar loan repayment (on Day 30) to repay the baht borrowed. The annual interest on the baht borrowed is 15.40%, or 1.28% over the 30-day period [computed as 15.40% Ãâ€"(30/360)]. The total baht amount necessary to repay the loan is therefore (454,545,454.50 Ãâ€"(1 + .0128)) 454,545,454.50 10,000,000.00 10,068,000.00 460,363,636.40 5. Number of dollars necessary to repay baht loan ($THB460,363,636.40 Ãâ€" $0.02) 6. Speculative profit ($10,068,000 – $9,207,272.73) 9,207,272.73 860,727.27 Appreciation of the Baht from $0.022 to $0.025 1. Borrow dollars. 2. Convert the dollars to Thai baht ($10 million/$0.022). 3. Lend the baht at 14.80% annualized, which represents a 1.23% return over the 30-day period [computed as 14.80% Ãâ€"(30/360)]. After 30 days, Blades would receive (THB454,545,454.50 Ãâ€" (1 + .0123)) 4. Use the proceeds of the baht loan repayment (on Day 30) to repay the dollars borrowed. The annual interest on the dollars borrowed is 8.20%, or 0.68% over the 30-day period [computed as 8.20% Ãâ€" (30/360)]. The total dollar amount necessary to repay the loan is therefore ($10,000,000 Ãâ€"(1 + .0068)) 5. Number of baht necessary to repay dollar loan ($10,068,000.00/$0.025) 6. Speculative profit (THB460,136,363.60 – THB402,720,000.00) 7. Dollar equivalent of speculative profit (THB57,416,363.60 Ãâ€"$0.025) 10,000,000.00 454,545,454.50 460,136,363.60 10,068,000.00 402,720,000.00 57,416,363.60 1,435,409.09

Technology and Technological Advances Shape the American Culture :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

Technological Advances Shape the American Culture People stay current with events that are happening worldwide in many ways. They watch the news on televisions, read the newspaper or go to news station's web sites. Looking back on the good old days, before television, cellular phones, and the Internet, life was simple. It is unbelievable how the little advances in technology since the late 1800s have shaped American culture. I remember 1948 well. This is when cable television had fifty stations across the country and one million receivers. From here the television industry grew to new heights. By 1951, Americans all over the country could watch the same thing. I recall CBS's attempt at broadcasting shows in color. This idea did not last long due to the use of technology mismatching with what was used in black and white television sets. One late evening in 1953, I saw on the news that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the RCA compatibility system that made color and black and white kosher. The addition of color gav e a new meaning to television. Later in 1953, the first educational television (ETV) station aired. Being just a kid at this time, educational shows did not fascinate me, but my mother made me watch them. Despite attempts to ignore what was being said, I learned more than I could imagine. Around 1956, the first motion pictures were produced in Hollywood and sent out around the country. I remember watching this exclusive event on the family television. My parents did not understand the thrill of movies coming out. I guess it was because they were too old fashioned. The television stations that we watch today became national cable stations in the 1970s. I remember 1975 as if it was yesterday. During this year the HBO station became the first national cable network. Back then, HBO watchers did not pay extra for the movies or shows they watched. Now if you want to watch a movie on HBO you pay extra on your cable bill, that is, if your cable company provides HBO. Another cable network that went national during the late 1970s was TBS. The TBS superstation was one of my favorite stations during that time. The shows broadcasted have gotten better and the movies have gotten more interesting. Television channel selections were rare during the 70s, but then the 80s came and with this decade came others. Technology and Technological Advances Shape the American Culture :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers Technological Advances Shape the American Culture People stay current with events that are happening worldwide in many ways. They watch the news on televisions, read the newspaper or go to news station's web sites. Looking back on the good old days, before television, cellular phones, and the Internet, life was simple. It is unbelievable how the little advances in technology since the late 1800s have shaped American culture. I remember 1948 well. This is when cable television had fifty stations across the country and one million receivers. From here the television industry grew to new heights. By 1951, Americans all over the country could watch the same thing. I recall CBS's attempt at broadcasting shows in color. This idea did not last long due to the use of technology mismatching with what was used in black and white television sets. One late evening in 1953, I saw on the news that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the RCA compatibility system that made color and black and white kosher. The addition of color gav e a new meaning to television. Later in 1953, the first educational television (ETV) station aired. Being just a kid at this time, educational shows did not fascinate me, but my mother made me watch them. Despite attempts to ignore what was being said, I learned more than I could imagine. Around 1956, the first motion pictures were produced in Hollywood and sent out around the country. I remember watching this exclusive event on the family television. My parents did not understand the thrill of movies coming out. I guess it was because they were too old fashioned. The television stations that we watch today became national cable stations in the 1970s. I remember 1975 as if it was yesterday. During this year the HBO station became the first national cable network. Back then, HBO watchers did not pay extra for the movies or shows they watched. Now if you want to watch a movie on HBO you pay extra on your cable bill, that is, if your cable company provides HBO. Another cable network that went national during the late 1970s was TBS. The TBS superstation was one of my favorite stations during that time. The shows broadcasted have gotten better and the movies have gotten more interesting. Television channel selections were rare during the 70s, but then the 80s came and with this decade came others.

Propaganda in indoctrinating Nazi ideals Essay

The Nazi propaganda after the consolidation of power featured many of the common characteristics associated with totalitarian propaganda; Twisted truths, stereotypical and distorted pictures of populace groups, simple messages repeated frequently and the use of a common enemy as a scapegoat. Also the Nazi propaganda featured many new methods of indoctrination, such as the mass rally meetings and the extensive radio propaganda. But how successful where these ways in conveying and convincing people of Nazi ideals? That is the question which I plan to investigate in my essay. The propaganda campaign launched by the Nazi government was headed by the brilliant orator Joseph Goebbels which was put as Reich Minister for Public Enlightenment and Propaganda where he coordinated the seven different departments: administration and organization, propaganda, radio, press, films, theatre, and adult education. From the department Goebbels controlled all aspects of Nazi propaganda, and since he was such a skilful propagandist almost all parts of the propaganda campaign, especially the radio, became huge successes. Of all the medias available to Goebbels his unquestionable favourite was the radio- the peoples receiver. Goebbels wanted to ensure that every home in Germany was equipped with a â€Å"Volksempfà ¤nger† from which they could listen to propaganda at all times of day. Prices where slashed and in the late 1930 the Germans could boast having the cheapest radios in the world. Radios where even put up in working places and public areas to ensure a maximal amount of listeners. And due to the large effort put into the campaign it became one of the most successful, by 1940 16 million households in Germany listened to Nazi Propaganda via the radio. Another effective way of supplying propaganda to the German people, was ,in theory, by the use of the censored press. In the beginning the press remained relatively unchanged, propaganda message where inserted in some magazine and papers, but most of the press friendly towards the regime remained unchanged, at least in the beginning. Soon Nazis propaganda was found in every page in every paper and by 1945 the Nazis ran 82% of all the newspapers in print.

Homeland Security Essay

Outline I. Topic: The United States Homeland Security and The War on Terrorism II. Thesis Statement: Homeland Security plays a major role in the war on terror. Topic Sentences 1. The Homeland Security Act of 2002 reduces the vulnerability of the United States to terrorism. 2. The Department of Homeland Security was created for the war on terror. 3. The role of the Homeland Security Committee. 4. The history of the United States on foreign policy. 5. How terrorists communicate what they want to accomplish. 6. The study of Foreign Intelligence. 7. The Increasing Need for Domestic Intelligence. 8. How security benefits from intelligence. 9. The United States is strengthening our Nuclear Security. 10. How the U.S. is fighting the war on terror. 11. Conclusion The Homeland Security Act Created by President George W. Bush after the 9/11 attacks the United States Department of Homeland Security is the largest federal government reorganization since the Department of Defense was created via the National Security Act of 1947. The new department assumed a large number of services, offices and other organizations previously conducted in other departments, such as the Customs Service, Coast Guard, and U.S. Secret Service. The Department of Homeland Security was created for the war on terror The primary mission of the Department is to prevent terrorist attacks within the  United States. Homeland Security reduces the vulnerability of the United States to terrorism. It also minimizes the damage, and assists in the recovery, from terrorist attacks that do occur within the United States. The role of the Homeland Security Committee Homeland Security Committee States that The Committee on Homeland Security was created by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002 in the aftermath of September 11, 2001. The Committee was first formed as a select, non-permanent Committee, to provide Congressional oversight over the development of the Department of Homeland Security. The Committee was made permanent when it was designated as a Standing Committee of the House on January 4, 2005, the first day of the 109th Congress. The Committee will be made up of 21 Democratic Members of Congress there is currently one vacancy, led by Chairman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), and 13 Republican Members of Congress, led by Ranking Member Peter T. King (R-NY). Frances Townsend currently heads the committee. Trudeau states that â€Å"President George W. Bush said We’re under attack because we love freedom, is why we’re under attack. And our enemy hates freedom. They hate and we love. We differ from our enemy because we love. We not only love our freedoms and love our values, we love life itself. Our enemy hates innocent life.† (2002) The history of the United States on Foreign Policy Because of its role as a major world superpower, the United States must carefully consider its national foreign policy goals. Although they may be carried out very differently from administration to administration, the primary goals of American foreign policy are most effective when they remain constant over time. Historically, the United States has pursued a number of foreign policy goals, but one goal has been and continues to be a primary goal of every generation is national security. The Realists point to several factors that demonstrate the importance of national security. They begin by declaring that humans are naturally aggressive and instinctively fight one another. This human tendency reveals the inevitable nature of war. The Cold War which was a period of strong change starting in 1945 led  America into a geopolitical mindset for the first time in American history. This period made national security and military affairs the center of focus for America. This gave way to the idea of national security being a strong focal point of the American agenda. It made it equally as important as anything else did on the agenda. Also the United States was now a state of mobilization. The armed forces would now and always be at a striking force. All of the changes were something new to the people of America but it was an idea that was not only accepted it was expected. The same rings true with 9/11 in relation to the role of America. Our sole focus is national security and to put our military at a point of being called upon any second. The United States has embraced the idea that things have changed and are willing to do whatever possible to prevent future events of this magnitude. Another characteristic that the Cold War Period and 9/11 hold in common is that both were a pervasive political and military competition that dominated international politics. On September 11, 2001 terrorism became a reality! There is no way for the United States to prevent future attacks on Americans without working as a coalition force with the other nations to identify, track, and eliminate terrorist networks around the world. One of the main problems with fighting a war on terrorism is that the nations of the world have become accustomed to working alone as individuals vice working together. The United States will need to change its approach in order to conquer the worldwide threat of terrorism. The way to defeat terrorism at home and around the world is to form an international counter-terrorist task force. In order to prevent future acts of terrorism on the United States and around the globe, the free-nations of the world will have to come together and form a large task force to counter against the terrorist threat. The main problem with forming a world wide counter-terrorist headquarters is that there is no one single definition of terrorism. Each country has a definition of the word â€Å"terrorism† based on the political stance that the country takes on use of force. The United Nations must first come up with a clear definition of terrorism in order to facilitate the creation of an international counter-terrorist organization. How Terrorists communicate what they want to accomplish Terrorists kill for a reason. The reason is to communicate a message that will instill fear in the enemy government and demoralize it. The strategy of terrorists is to provoke the government into repressive measures in the hope that this will cause a revolt. The Study of Foreign Intelligence The study of foreign intelligence has demonstrated that the purpose of intelligence is to acquire information necessary to apply governmental power with greater precision and that as the need for application of government power increases, so does the need for intelligence. Domestically, terrorist threats to homeland security will be countered by government power used by various domestic security agencies, and the newly created domestic intelligence programs will enable them to apply their powers with greater force and precision. As technological capabilities inevitably grow threats to homeland security will increase in the future, and the need for domestic intelligence will increase. The Increasing Need for Domestic Intelligence Homeland security will require greater levels of domestic intelligence in the future. Foreign intelligence has indicated that the purpose of intelligence both foreign and domestic is to facilitate precise application of governmental power. Countering terrorism has increased the need to collect domestic intelligence, but threats to domestic security will increase even more in the future due to growth in technological capacities. As the use of power increases to counter these threats, domestic intelligence capabilities must also increase so that the power is applied effectively. American officials created a permanent intelligence community to warn policymakers of threats to national security. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor had such a detrimental effect on American perceptions of security that after World War II ended, policymakers decided to create for the first time in the nation’s history a permanent bureaucracy intended to prevent any future surprise attacks or other strategic surprises. Historically, intelligence capabilities had been organized to provide targeted military information to commanders because losing wars held such disastrous consequences. The United States was the last major power to get into the intelligence analysis business. It was thought that it wasn’t  necessary because two great oceans protected America from foreign dangers. Marrin states that The attack on Pearl Harbor and subsequent American involvement in World War II changed the United States’ need for and use of intelligence. During World War II, the United States increased its overseas presence, and this necessitated the creation of a global intelligence capability commensurate with the United States’ expanded global role. After World War II ended, American political leaders decided that the United States needed an intelligence agency capable of integrating disparate pieces of information distributed throughout the military and other government agencies to prevent another Pearl Harbor. As a result, in 1947 the Central Intelligence Agency was created to prevent future surprise attacks by focusing on threats to national security. (2003) How security benefits from Intelligence The primary security benefit of intelligence is that it enables power to be applied with greater precision and with less collateral damage. The role of intelligence is the collection and analysis of information to find out who the terrorists are and what they are up to. Knowledge can make the application of power more effective, but knowledge alone is powerless. The benefit of foreign intelligence is easiest to illustrate in the application of military power. Foreign intelligence can also assist in the application of economic and political power. The United States is strengthening our Nuclear Security In the 1990’s we were warn of potential terrorists obtaining and using of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) whether chemical, biological, and nuclear. Chemicals weapons are available to terrorist through homebrew or rogue states. Nuclear terrorism is our biggest worry. Nuclear weapons are more difficult for terrorists to handle. Henderson (2004) states that With so many nuclear warheads being stored under conditions of uncertain security in the former Soviet Union, it is possible terrorists might be able to buy or steal a ready made nuclear weapon. But nuclear  warheads have safety interlocks, and it has been proposed that the weapons be fitted with devices that would allow them to be remotely destroyed or disabled if terrorists obtain them. U.S. agencies since the 1900s have sought closer coordination between U.S. and former Soviet Scientists and engineers in order to secure the nuclear stockpiles. How the U.S. is fighting the war on terror We have worked with a number of states around the world to expose plotting Al Qaeda cells. The United States has implemented broad-sweeping, even controversial, steps such as the Patriot Act in an attempt to improve our domestic security. There are three tools that can be used on terrorists. The criminal law and legal system is used to prosecute terrorist suspects. The military can be used to destroy terrorist’s infrastructures. Diplomatic efforts can be used in the hopes that nations can work together to prevent the movement of terrorists around the world. Conclusion After 9/11 the Department of Homeland Security was organized. The primary mission of the Department is to prevent terrorist attacks within the United States. Homeland Security reduces the vulnerability of the United States to terrorism. It also minimizes the damage, and assists in the recovery, from terrorist attacks that do occur within the United States. Intelligence has been used to collect and analysis information to find out who the terrorists are and what they are up to. It is best to see that the United States is taking the proper steps to fight terrorism. Reference: Henderson, H. (2004) Global terrorism, New York, NY: Facts on file, Inc. Homeland Security Retrieved November 25, 2009 http://homeland.house.gov/about/index.asp Marrin, S. (2003) Homeland Security Intelligence Retrieved November 25, 2009 http://www.homelandsecurity.org/journal/Articles/marrin.html Homeland Security Retrieved November 24, 2009 http://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/homeland-security/ Trudeau, G. (2008) The war in quotes p.20 Retrieved November 27, 2009 http://www.ontheissues.org/Celeb/George_W__Bush_Homeland_Security.htm

Feminism In Frankenstein essays

Feminism In Frankenstein essays When reading Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, one cannot help but notice that the women characters seem to have little substance compared to the male characters. This may have been caused by the time period in which she wrote: one in which females was considered to be inferior to males. There are many factors in this novel which contribute to the portrayal of feminism. The three points which contribute greatly are, the female characters are there only to reflect the male characters, women are seen as possessions for men to protect, and finally women in the novel are portrayed as stereotypical women in that time period. Mary Shelleys novel portrays feminist qualities, and is a feminist novel. Firstly, the female characters in the novel are there only to reflect the male characters. To start, in the novel itself, no women speak directly. The book has three basic narrators: Robert Walton, Victor Frankenstein, and Frankenstein's monster. The female characters are very weak in this novel, especially Elizabeth, Victor's cousin/fianc. She is portrayed as the perfect woman, especially after Victor's mother, Caroline dies. She takes the place of the mother figure in the household. Secondly, just like all the female characters in the story, Elizabeths character has little substance. Victor's character is described in detail, as is that of the monster, and Henry Clerval. When Henry gets killed, sympathy is really felt toward Victor, because he has just lost his lifetime friend. When Elizabeth is murdered, the reader finds it hard to connect with what Frankenstein is feeling. Elizabeth (and the other main female characters: Justine and Caroline) are there to reflect the men charac ters. Lastly, women function not in their own right but somewhat of a passage for men's relations with other men. This is especially clear when the monster kills Elizabeth on their wedding night. The monster is upset with Victor, so instead of hurting ...

upper room essays

upper room essays When an artist displays a work of art in a public place such as Battery Park City, he or she must take into consideration the degree of interaction that may take place between the public and their work of art. When I spoke with the artist of The Upper Room, Ned Smyth, he explained his intention of the publics interaction with his sculpture was to be both physical and emotional. In this paper, I will discuss the different issues that have made his intent a success. First, I will address the impact that the physical appearance of the work has on the public, and why. The Upper Room is constructed from concrete with inlayed stone and glass mosaic. It is a large-scale sculpture, yet it is very welcoming to the eye of the public and not overpowering. The sense of feeling invited into the piece comes partly from the pastel pink color of the concrete and the mystery of the mosaic pattern that is inlayed into it. The artists dynamic use of space also creates an inviting aura. There are steps leading up to a colonnade, which is not attached to an actual building. This is unusual when studying the history of architecture. The entire room was created by a series of surrounding columns, none of which are attached to any sort of wall or ceiling. The artist explained to me that he wanted to create an interior "room" as a part of the exterior environment he was given to display his work in. He wanted to create a space, rather then to create an object. He chose not to have an enclosed area, because that would make the work separate from the environment and the people in that environment as well. The space in which The Upper Room is displayed is an important issue when discussing the physical and emotional interactions of the public. The sculpture is located in Battery Park City, at the end of Albany Street at the Esplanade. As people walk along the path, they can visually see the sculpture, which is off to the side. It ...

Giant Panda Facts

Giant Panda Facts Giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) are bears that are well known for their distinct black-and-white coloration. They have black fur on their limbs, ears, and shoulders. Their face, belly, and the middle of their back is white and they have black fur around their eyes. The reason for this unusual color pattern is not fully understood, although some scientists have suggested it provides camouflage in the dappled, shady environments of the forests in which they live. Fast Facts: Giant Pandas Scientific Name: Ailuropoda melanoleucaCommon Names: Giant pandaBasic Animal Group: MammalSize: 2–3 feet tall at the shoulder when on four legs, about 5-feet tall standing erectWeight: 150–300 poundsLifespan: 20  years (in the wild)Diet: OmnivoreHabitat: Broadleaf and mixed forests, where bamboo is present, in southeast China  Population: About 1,600Conservation Status:  Vulnerable Description Giant pandas have a body shape and build that is typical of most bears and are roughly the size of an American black bear. They have a distinctive black-and-white coat with black fur covering their ears, arms and legs, and part of their chest and back. The rest of their fur is white. Giant pandas molars are very broad and flat, which helps the animals crush the bamboo shoots, leaves, and stems  that  they eat. They also have an enlarged wrist bone that functions as an opposable thumb, which helps them grasp the bamboo. Giant pandas do not hibernate and are the rarest species in the bear family. Habitat and Range Giant pandas inhabit the broadleaf and mixed forests where bamboo is present, in southeast China.  They usually communicate using calls or scent marks. Giant pandas have a sophisticated sense of smell and they use scent marking to recognize and define their territories. Diet and Behavior Giant pandas are highly specialized in terms of their diet. Bamboo accounts for over 99 percent of the giant pandas diet, though they sometimes hunt for pikas and other small rodents. Since bamboo is a poor source of nutrition, the bears must make up for this by consuming vast amounts of the plant. Another strategy they use to compensate for their bamboo diet is to conserve their energy by remaining within a small area. To consume sufficient bamboo to provide all the energy they need, it takes giant pandas as long as  10 and 12 hours of feeding every day. Giant pandas have powerful jaws and their molar teeth are large and flat, a structure that makes them well suited for grinding up the fibrous bamboo they eat. Pandas feed while sitting upright, a posture that enables them to grab onto bamboo steams. The digestive system of a giant panda is inefficient and lacks the adaptations that many other herbivorous mammals possess. Much of the bamboo they eat passes through their system and is expelled as waste. Giant pandas obtain most of the water they need from the bamboo they eat. To supplement this water intake, they also drink out of streams that are common in their forest habitat. Reproduction and Offspring The giant panda mating season is between March and May and young are usually born in August or September. Giant pandas are reluctant to breed in captivity. Young giant pandas are born quite helpless. Their eyes remain closed for the first eight weeks of their life. For the next nine months, the cubs nurse from their mother and they are weaned at one year. They still require a long period of maternal care after weaning, and for this reason, remain with their mother for a one-and-a-half to three years, as they mature. yesfoto/Getty Images Conservation Status Giant pandas are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. There are only about 1,600 giant pandas that remain in the wild. Most captive pandas are kept in China. Classification Debate The classification of giant pandas was once a subject of intense debate. At one time they were thought to be of a close relation to raccoons, but molecular studies have revealed they belong within the bear family. Giant pandas diverged from other bears early in the familys evolution. Sources â€Å"Giant Panda.†Ã‚  WWF.â€Å"Giant Panda.†Ã‚  National Geographic, 21 Sept. 2018.â€Å"The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.†Ã‚  IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Contrast Enhanced Magnetic Resonance in Literature review

Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Contrast Enhanced Magnetic Resonance in Pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment - Literature review Example The first stage of the pancreatic cancer diagnosis is tumor detection. The tumor is not easily detectable and hence the increased mortality rate of the disease. The detection of the tumor is therefore an important stage in the efforts of treating and curing pancreatic cancer. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a process that enables the early confirmation of the pancreatic tumor thereby increasing the curability of the disease. Contrast agents are used in the MRI process. The commonly used contrast images are Gadolinium based Contrast agents and Iron Oxide nanoparticle enhanced contrast agents. The contrast agents allow for the formation of distinct images subsequently allowing for better determination of Carcinoma cells. The research paper looks into the role that Iron Oxide Nanoparticles enhance the magnetic Resonance in the quest for pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment. The paper is broken down to the different MRI and its contrast agents, Nanotechnology, Iron Oxide nanoparticles, and their importance in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer and finally the effectiveness and dependability of the Nanoparticles in the curability of pancreatic cancer. The paper has clearly cut objectives, which should be addressed comprehensively throughout the paper. According to Zhou and Lu (2012), Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a powerful medical modality that displays the anatomical structures of the body. MRI is quite important in detecting and characterizing the diseased tissues in the body as well as solid tumors. MRI produces a three-dimension, high resolution and contrast images of the tissues or tumor and does not release ionization radiation in the process. MRI uses a variety of contrast agents in relation to the tissue or body part involved in the process. Over the years, since its inception three years ago, the

The Syndrome Of Colorectal Cancer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

The Syndrome Of Colorectal Cancer - Essay Example After getting the report of the medical test, John and his wife Carol learned that he was suffering from colorectal cancer. John was appalled at the diagnosis as he was completely unprepared for such a result. A doctor suggested him a surgeon who particularly dealt with such kind of diseases and offered hope towards fighting and surviving this grave disease. The surgeon explained the procedure of treatment and therapy that John needed to undergo before and after the surgery. After performing a surgery, the physician discussed the means in relation to the disease from which John was suffering. The physician broke the news to John that he was gravely affected with the high level of cancer in his abdominal. John undertook several tests to determine the accuracy of the statement made by the physician and found it to be true (Australian Government Cancer Australia, 2012). The joint report published by the ‘Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)’ and the ‘Australasian Association of Cancer Registries (AACR)’ focuses on delivering a thorough update regarding the changes in cancer endurance in Australia since 2001, when the first national cancer report was published. It delivers a trend statistics regarding the survival of persons affected by invasive cancer from 1982-1986 to 1998-2004, as well as analyzes the survival outcome in terms of age, geographic provinces, sex, and socioeconomic status. During the period of 1982-2004, the statistical reports concerning the frequency of invasive cancer in Australia provided an account of 1.6 million cases. This was the period when cancer-related survivals were examined in terms of their gender, age and period of treatment, as well as survival period, geographic provinces and socioeconomic status. Moreover, this report also provided the prevalence calculation regarding all the se aspects (Alteri et. al., 2011). In Australia, during 2007, the risk of colorectal cancer was identified at the age of 85 which was 10 for men and 14 for women. This risk was noticeable and increased from the age of 45.

Recycling the Household Rubbish Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Recycling the Household Rubbish - Essay Example The nations around the world should opt for compulsory recycling of household rubbish to overcome the problems like environmental pollution and ecological disorders. The most crucial aspect of this issue is that the world is running out of room to bury its rubbish. The figures in the recent years show that if the people of America recycled the Sunday newspaper, they could save over 500,000 trees a year. Much more will be the effects if another solid household waste is recycled. Recycling is widely accepted as the environmentally friendly, cheapest and most sensible way to dispose of the household rubbish. To begin with, recycling the waste helps in reducing the amount of methane generated from biodegradable waste, for example, breaking down cardboard in the landfill. It also cuts down the emissions of methane, the most important factor contributing to global warming. Recycling the rubbish will also avert other negative environmental impacts; for instance, it will reduce the number of trees being cut down and will reduce the number of minerals and metals extracted from mines. An important hindrance that stands against the recycling of the household waste is the unreceptive mentality of the society against recycling.  The National Consumer Council (NCC) points out, factors that might restrain people from acting ‘sustainably’ include recycling (Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, 2005). People should be convinced of the fact that the reserves of metal ores are not unlimited. There is only a little gold, silver, tin and other metals remaining in the ground and once they all have been mined out, there will not be anything left unless we are already to recycle what has already been used. Evidently, â€Å"the United States daily generates more solid waste than any other country on earth.† (Barry & Mendoza, 2006, p. 416). Consumption of fast food meals packed in paper or Styrofoam containers has grown alarmingly high.

UPenn Wharton Business School Admission Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

UPenn Wharton Business School Admission - Essay Example The competitive Chinese real estate market and the economic bubble was not fit for the financially challenged lot, making them drop along the way or were just employed as masons, and contractors when there were many opportunities. In addition, just as Mao Zedong said that nations do not mistrust each other because they are armed, while they are armed because they do not mistrust each other. I wanted to arm the masons and empower them to get the best out of their effort. I helped them identify alternative sources of capital that they could use to help improve their financial situation. Most of my first clients are in the real estate and have been enjoying the fruits of their life. These people have known the best recipe for project management and capital valuation, they know the importance of the project, how to maximize the bottom line in all projects, how to dispose their capital equipment without losing much through trade in or recycle/reuse. Others started big construction compani es that are now tremendously successful in the maintenance of the bad roads in Vietnam. These people realized that the main secret to their life is to like what they do and not just do what they like only. In this spirit, I only want to do the things I like and decide that now is the defining moment at hand before the defining moment defines me.

How have cell phones affected the lives of american citizens Essay

How have cell phones affected the lives of american citizens - Essay Example The lives of the American people are, therefore, highly influenced by mobile telephony. Arguments on the effects of cell phones on the lives of American citizens are both positive and negative, with the positives outperforming the negatives (Ling 34). Cell phones constitute the primary mode of communication in America. This means that mobile telephony has made it simple and easy to access effective and efficient communication services. As a result, communication challenges that were evident decades ago are no longer present today. Sending and receiving information is efficiently aided by cell phone devices, thereby reducing time and cost of sending and receiving information and messages. The social aspects of the American people have also been accounted for by cell phones. The mobile telephony industry has revolutionized social interactions through the use of cell phones. This has made it possible for people to interact even without having to meet physically. The link of cell phones to the social media has further led to the realization of an integrative social enhancement at a global level. This has come as a complement to intentional communications originating from America to the rest of the world. Cell phones have further impacted positively on the economic conditions of individuals, businesses and the performance of the American economy at large (Campbell 73). At individual level, cell phone services are provided at affordable charges, with competition in the industry necessitating an ever declining service pricing for mobile telephony. Moreover, cell phones companies undertake promotions all over America, offering cash money, mobile phone handsets and mobile phone accessories to their lucky subscribers. This has enhanced the economic conditions of numerous subscribers across the United States. In general, American citizens have benefited from the operation strategies employed by cell phone

UPenn Wharton Business School Admission Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

UPenn Wharton Business School Admission - Essay Example The competitive Chinese real estate market and the economic bubble was not fit for the financially challenged lot, making them drop along the way or were just employed as masons, and contractors when there were many opportunities. In addition, just as Mao Zedong said that nations do not mistrust each other because they are armed, while they are armed because they do not mistrust each other. I wanted to arm the masons and empower them to get the best out of their effort. I helped them identify alternative sources of capital that they could use to help improve their financial situation. Most of my first clients are in the real estate and have been enjoying the fruits of their life. These people have known the best recipe for project management and capital valuation, they know the importance of the project, how to maximize the bottom line in all projects, how to dispose their capital equipment without losing much through trade in or recycle/reuse. Others started big construction compani es that are now tremendously successful in the maintenance of the bad roads in Vietnam. These people realized that the main secret to their life is to like what they do and not just do what they like only. In this spirit, I only want to do the things I like and decide that now is the defining moment at hand before the defining moment defines me.

Globalization, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), or Multinational Essay

Globalization, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), or Multinational Corporations (MNCs) - Essay Example On the other hand, poverty and inequality emanates from disorganization and injustice among the developed countries in the global market who instead should work at developing the global economy to greater levels. According to Cohn’s perspective, globalization entails activities that assist countries and societies to broaden and deepen thus increasing their interdependence around the world. Broadening and deepening is the establishment of links and using them to increase the regularity and intensity of the communications, transactions, relationships and general interactions among the involved societies and states. Globalization has led to developments in management and other significant sectors in the corporate world as companies come up with excellent strategies to overcome the competition and as a way of keeping up with the trends1. The vast growth in international market relates with developments in areas such as communication and transportation technologies that are key facilitators of the strategic links between the participating states and Multinational Corporations (MNCs). However, globalization’s impact varies in the different countries and in most cases; it threatens th e domestic autonomy causing issues among the local economies. Upon entry into the international market, countries take up new roles and responsibilities, that allow them to make any policy choices. The policy choices are the determinants of states and societies’ experiences of globalization i.e. unity and cooperation or fragmentation and conflict. Multinational Corporations (MNCs) are companies that distribute goods and services across borders with an aim of spreading ideas and controlling assets in more than one state. They play a significant role in globalization and economists argue they make the greater part of it. MNCs mostly practice Foreign Direct Investments (FDI): in order to manage rights and control economic transactions in different states. Realists link globalization with

Greatest Speeches of All Time - Franklin Roosevelts Speech Essay Example for Free

Greatest Speeches of All Time Franklin Roosevelts Speech Essay In his first paragraph, Roosevelt states that he is certain that his fellow Americans expect he will address them with honesty and a decision which the people will push forward. He also states that this is the distinguished time to speak the truth. That Americans should not shrink from honestly facing conditions in their country today. America will endure as it has endured and will revive and flourish. So first of all, he will support his firm belief that the only thing they have to fear is fear itself- unjustified terror which stops needed efforts to transform retreat into advance. He makes a point about how values have shrunken dramatically as taxes have risen, ability to pay has fallen, the government is faced by diminishment of income, exchange means are frozen in trade, the industrial enterprise is falling (â€Å"withered leaves†), farmers cannot sell produce, savings of families are gone and there are going to be more unemployed citizens. He speaks about how America doesn’t have the problems they once had with loss of produce and how â€Å"our forefathers conquered† and that American’s should appreciate it. He says that the country has many resources and shouldn’t waste them, like leaders have wasted resources before, whether it was because they stubborn or just plain dumb, they have passed on these habits to their future rulers. He acknowledges that they have tried, but their efforts were in vain. They have only ever proposed the lending of money. People before him have not had the choice to lure people to follow him by using money promises; they resorted to persuading the people through â€Å"pleading tearfully for restored confidence. These people had no vision and only knew the rules of a generation of self-seekers, and with this vision people perish. He acknowledges that social values are more important than money values and that is where the restoration should begin. He also acknowledges that money doesn’t bring you happiness but the joy of achievement does. He also acknowledges that the joy and moral side of work no longer need to be forgotten in the chase of diminishing profits. He also states that recognition of material wealth being the standard of success being a false idea going hand in hand with the â€Å"abandonment of the false belief that public office and political position are to be valued only by the standards of pride of place and personal profit†, also that there must be an end to the wrong doing to the citizens who trust in banking and in business. If the nation is to be restored both ethics must be changed and action must be taken. He recognises action needs to be taken so that more people are in the workforce and are able to get into the workforce. He states that we must recognise that most of the population lives in the city and that the land should be put to better use. This can be achieved by raising the value of agricultural products and with this power to purchase the output of cities. It can be helped by preventing the tragedy of the growing loss of small homes and farms. It also helped by insistence that the federal, state and local governments act on demand to have their costs reduced. If national planning for supervision of all forms of transportation and communication were in place it would also help. He states that it cannot merely be helped by talking about it and actions must be put in place quickly. He states that to return to the safeguard of work there must be strict supervision of all banking and credits and investment, there must be end to speculation with other people’s money and there must be provision for an adequate but sound currency. He goes on to explain how he will fill his duties in a fulfilling way. The event the speech addresses: The event the speech addresses was Inauguration Day, 1933. This marked the commencement of a four year term. On this day there was a swearing in ceremony which consisted of Roosevelt taking an oath of office and delivering a speech. This speech outlined that Roosevelt understood that the American Constitution had proved itself as an enduring modern political mechanism and how Roosevelt planned to ease the effects of the Great Depression. Profile of Franklin Roosevelt: Franklin Delano Roosevelt was born in 1882 at Hyde Park, New York. Hyde Park (New York) is most famous for being the hometown of Roosevelt and his grandfathers’ home is located near the Riverview Circle of the Hudson River. He was born as the only child of James Roosevelt and Sara Ann Delano Roosevelt. He was born into a family of riches and the sense of self importance. He was educated by tutors and governesses and his upbringing was far different from the common people. In 1896 he attended Groton school for boys where he found it hard to fit in as most of the boys excelled at athletics while he did not. After graduating in 1900, Roosevelt attended Harvard University and Columbia Law School but in 1907 he passed the bar exam yet didn’t receive a degree. In 1905, on St. Patrick’s Day he married Eleanor Roosevelt, his fifth cousin, niece of Theodore Roosevelt, also his fifth cousin. Theodore Roosevelt was Franklin Roosevelt’s idol and Roosevelt aimed to follow in his footsteps. Theodore Roosevelt became commander-in-chief in 1901 after William McKinley was assassinated and president in 1904 after winning second term. Roosevelt won a seat in the New York senate in 1901. He was stricken with Polio in 1921, but not many people knew exactly how paralysed he was as he was never seen in a wheelchair. He fought to regain the use of his legs though hydrotherapy. Franklin Roosevelt was the only president to be elected four times. Roosevelt had become the 32nd President of the United States in 1933. In 1935 many members of the public were against Roosevelt’s New Deal program even though the Nation had received some measure of recovery as national product went up and unemployment went down. The New Deal program was a series of domestic programs enacted in the United States between 1933 and 1936. Roosevelt was re-elected in 1936 by a huge margin. Roosevelt had pledged the United States to the good neighbour policy, when France fell and England came under siege in 1940, he began to send Great Britain all possible aid short of actual military involvement. Hopes of keeping America out of the war ended on December 7, 1941 when Japan attacked Pearl Harbour. Roosevelt helped in the area of advising military personnel and did this successfully in 1942 in an invasion on South Africa, in 1943 in both Italy and Sicily and followed by the D-Day invasion in Europe in 1944. During this time Roosevelt also promoted the formation of the United Nations (UN). Also in 1944 Roosevelt had been tested and diagnosed with many problems but despite this he ran for president with his running mate Harry S. Truman who he nominated as his senator and won 36 of 48 states, yet again becoming president. In February, 1945, Roosevelt attended the Yalta Conference which was held to discuss after-war reorganisation with British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Soviet General Secretary Joseph Stalin. Roosevelt died on the afternoon of April 12th in 1945, as the World War II came to a close from a cerebral haemorrhage. His passing shocked America even though people knew he looked exhausted in photographs and news reels, no one was prepared for his passing. Historical Analysis: Roosevelt’s presidency had forever changed the United States and the way it was run. He led a country through the Great Depression, as well as the greatest war in human history, and his social programs during the Great Depression have redefined the role of government in Americans’ lives. He established the United States leadership on the world stage through his role in World War II. The 12 years he spent in the White House had redefined liberalism and set a precedent for the expansion of presidential power for future generations.

Moral Panics And Create Folk Devils

Moral Panics And Create Folk Devils There are many ways in which the media can incite moral panics and produce folk devils and one way in which this is possible is through labelling. Moral entrepreneurs, who dislike some particular behaviour such as drug takings, may use the media to put pressure on the authorities to do something. This is an important element in the process in creating moral panic. This refers to an exaggerated over-reaction by society to a perceived problem- usually fuelled or inspired by the media. The media also help to make the problem bigger and blow it out of proportion. There are many ways in which the media can stimulate this. In a moral panic, the media identify a group as a folk devil. Folk devil can be identified as a threat to societys values. The media also present the group in a negative stereotypical fashion and again exaggerate the scale of the problem. Also the respectable people of the society such as, bishops, politicians and police chiefs condemn the group and its behaviour. Usually this would lead to a crackdown on the threatening groups. In spite of this, it may result in creating a self-fulfilling prophecy that amplifies the very problem that caused the panic in the first place. This could be seen in the instance with cases of drugs. As a result police set up drugs squads and in turn find out more drugs and the crackdown identifies more deviants, which then calls for even tougher action creating a deviance amplification spiral. The most influential study was by Stanley Cohen, which was featured in his book Folk Devils and Moral Panics. He examined the role of the media and the medias response to disturbances between 2 groups of teenagers. The Mods and the Rockers were two groups of largely working class teenagers, at English seaside resorts from 1964-1966, and Cohen examined the way in which this created a moral panic. The mods were distinguished as wearing smart clothes and rode scooters and listened to pop and soul, whilst rockers wore leather jackets and rode motorbikes and listened to rock and roll. Although in the early stages, distinctions were not very clear. On the Easter weekend 1964 there were a few scuffles and broken windows and some beach huts were destroyed. Although the disorder was minimal, the media over reacted. In Cohens analysis, he uses the analogy of a disaster, where the media produce an inventory or stocktaking of what happened. This inventory contained three things. Exaggeration and distortion are one of them. This is where the media exaggerate the numbers involved and the extent of the violence and damage, and distort the picture through the dramatic reporting and sensational headlines. Second, is prediction and this were the media regularly predict and assume further conflict and violence will take place. Lastly, symbolisation, and this is where the mods and rockers symbols such as- their clothes, bikes, scooters and hairstyles- are negatively labelled and associated with deviance. Cohen goes further and argues that the medias portrayal of events produces a deviance amplification spiral by making it seem as if the problem was spreading and getting out of hand. This then led to an increased control response from the police and also courts. This then in turn produced further marginalisation and stigmatisation of the Mods and Rockers as deviants and less tolerance. The media further amplified the deviance by defining the two groups and their sub cultural styles. By emphasising their supposed differences, the media made clear the two distinct identities and transformed loose-knit grouping into two tight knit gangs. This encouraged polarisation and helped create a self- fulfilling prophecy of escalating conflict as youths acted out roles the media had assigned them. Cohen also observed that the medias definition of the situation are crucial in creating a moral panic, because in large-scale modern societies, most people have no direct experience of the events themselves and therefore have to rely on the media for information about them. In the case of the Mods and Rockers, this allowed the media to portray them as folk devil. However it could be said that the notion described by Cohen are outdated. Fashion and music have become more diverse, and young people rarely identify themselves with one particular style. Subsequently, society has become more complex, fragmented and liberal and its less clear what constitutes deviant behaviour. Thirdly, politicians are cautious when trying to create a moral panic over, for example, teenage mums, in case they are seen as old-fashioned bullies. McRobbie and Thornton argue that society and the media have moved on and new concepts and ideas. They also point out that early versions of the moral panic model saw society as one influenced by postmodernism, would take a more differentiated approach. It has been widely accepted that this is the age of moral panics. From the Bulger case to mad cow disease, newspaper headlines continually warn of some new danger and television programmes  echo the theme with sensational documentaries. Although todays media audiences are accustomed to shock stories. So it could be said that they do not react to manic to media exaggerations. Finally it has been said that the media create moral panic to preserve ruling class hegemony. This was seen in the 1970s mugging, which were sensationalised by the elite to divert the attention from the crisis of the Britain capitalism. In conclusion many of the dramatized stories illustrate many aspects of moral panic and highlight the way such issues are portrayed and orchestrated by the media. As it is the case with many moral panics become deviants such as the Mods and Rockers, and are deemed threatening to our society as a result of the medias reporting of their views and actions.

Why Can’t We Be More Like Canada? :: Essays Papers

Why Can’t We Be More Like Canada? The National Rifle Association has gone too far in defending the right to bear arms because the safety of schools is in jeopardy. The tragic events that occurred at Columbine High School in early 1999 with the killing of 13, including 12 students and one teacher while wounding many more, put much greater focus and awareness on violence in schools. The upward trend of violence in schools beginning in the early 1990’s got national attention because of the shootings that took place just outside of Denver. The tragedy at Columbine seemed to be the last straw for anti-gun activists, politicians, the media, and parents of children in schools to take action to protect America’s young from death in a place where kids are supposed to be safe. The NRA is not stepping back from their fight to protect the second amendment, but changes need to be made to protect kids growing up in society today. School violence, especially school shootings, has kept pace in recent years since the Columbine shootings. According to the National School Safety and Security Services there have been 116 total deaths in the past 5 years that occurred in schools. Of the 116, 45 have been caused by shootings. Just within the past three months of this new school year, there have been 13 school shooting deaths (fig. 1 and 2). That is an average of nine deaths caused by guns per year for the last five years since Columbine startled society to this devastating problem. The obstacle is in front of all of American to have the incidents of shooting deaths in schools decrease to where they are non-existent. In the state of Colorado, where the world’s media attention was drawn due to Columbine and still is, they have some of the loosest guns laws in the nation. A fact sheet was released by the Violence Policy Center on the same day as the shooting at Columbine High School for some related background information. The press release shows that citizens of Colorado do not have licensing or registration requirements with firearm purchase or possession. There is no waiting period for the purchase of handguns, shotguns, or rifles. There are no age restrictions with the possession of rifles or shotguns, but no person under the age of 18 can have a handgun.

Interpersonal Skills Essay

Interpersonal skills are very important to have and develop in life, they are the foundation to the relationships we make throughout our existence. We are interacting with people on a daily basis, even if for a brief moment in time and, those interpersonal skills are the tools we need to make those interactions as positive and effective as possible. This is especially true with our workplace interactions. Throughout our work experience, we will constantly collaborate and interact with others on all aspects of work in order to get the job done. There are many different dimensions of interpersonal skills that include verbal and non-verbal communication, effectively delivering feedback and being open to accepting constructive criticism, efficiently dealing with disagreements, and understanding how technology has an effect on theseskills in the workplace. By understanding these types of interpersonal skills we can more positively influence and support each other, create an encouraging work environment and collectively work together to thrive in our employment. These interpersonal skills will determine our degree of success in the workplace. Furthermore, the absence of these interpersonal skills will hinder our other talents and knowledge and result in a dysfunctional work environment. Interpersonal Skills When thinking of a person we like to be around, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact reasons why we enjoy their company. A common reason is that they are good communicators. It’s easy to talk to them, they relate well to you, they have a positive attitude and are generally pleasant to be around. Similarly, we all know someone who has difficulty communicating with others. Maybe it’s your coworker, a longtime friend, the clerk at your favorite store or a family member. Everyone is different and interpersonal communication skills vary depending on how well they are in tune with themselves and others. Interpersonal communication is simply the way people communicate with each other (Interpersonal Skills, 2013). Whether interactions are of a social or professional nature, having good interpersonal skills will improve those interactions. The messages sent to others while communicating are both verbal and nonverbal (Adler, 2010). The words being spoken, the listener’s perception of their meaning, the body language of the communicators involved and the environment where the communication is happening are factors of interpersonal communication (Adler, 2010). With all of these moving parts it’s easy for misunderstandings to occur. Often times there is a disconnection between what a speaker actuslly says, what the speaker intended to say and the meaning the listener applies to what the speaker said (Adler, 2010). Linguistic theorists C. K. Ogdfen and I. A. Richards are famous for creating the triangle of meaning. This model shows that there is no direct relationship between an idea, process or other referent and the word (or other symbol) used to represent it. Rather, the pathway to understanding – or misunderstanding – passes through the mind of the sender or receiver. (Adler, 2010, p. 92) Speaking with clarity and removing equivocal terms, or terms with two different, but equally acceptable meanings is one way to mitigate inevitable misunderstandings (Adler, 2010). By eliminating the use of slang in a professional setting and being cognizant of the use of jargon communicators can also help to reduce misunderstandings (Adler, 2010). There is an appropriate place and time for everything and being aware of the audience and how messages will be received can keep verbal messages on a direct path of understanding to the listeners. Nonverbal communication often affects the way information is received more than verbal messages because, as the timeless phrase tells us, it’s not lways what you say, but how you say it that can leave a lasting impression. Nonverbal communication is anything other than the words coming out of your mouth (Adler, 2010). If your boss has a slouched posture and disinterested expression on their face, this may make an employee feel discouraged about bringing forth important concerns. If a colleague is making poor eye contact and constantly checks their watch, this may a message of disinterest to a coworker. People that often encroach upon others’ personal space can find that this affects the attitudes of others towards them. Most times you cannot control if your intended verbal message is received properly, but you can control if you are fidgeting and the amount of focus you are portraying to anyone you communicate with. Verbal and nonverbal communication skills go a long way towards improving overall interpersonal skills. One can improve their interpersonal skills and facilitate optimal communication by developing better networking, team work and leadership qualities (Interpersonal Skills, 2013b). Networking skills are exemplified when an individual is self-confident, communicates effectively and never stops building connections in their personal and professional networks (Interpersonal Skills, 2013b). People with great interpersonal skills can easily act as the ‘go-to’ person in their social circle or professional organization. They can connect the dots for others because they relate well to others and move through various interpersonal environments effortlessly. Collaborating well with others and working towards a common goal illustrates good team work. Individuals with interpersonal prowess cooperate with others to achieve the group’s goals. They value the ideas and contributions of each team member by actively listening and encouraging each and every team member to participate. Strong leadership skills require highly developed interpersonal skills. A leader with confidence, an open mind and who readily gives due praise can motivate others to work harder and achieve more (Adler, 2010). Using one’s expertise to delegate appropriately and mentor those who need it are natural characteristics of a leader (Interpersonal Skills, 2013b). Poise, grace and charisma also play a large part in the impression left after any interpersonal interaction. Those with robust interpersonal communication skills understand not only themselves, but also those around them with a fluid flow of cause and effect.. Dealing with Criticism One cause for communication that relies heavily on interpersonal skills in order to attain a successful outcome is criticism. Dealing with criticism from any aspect can be tricky, if not handled in the right way this kind of conversation can quickly go awry very quickly. While giving and receiving praise is easy and pleasurable to manage, encountering criticism is inevitable. Whether speaking out about a complaint or being the one to receive another’s dissatisfaction, criticism can spread like a wildfire of negative emotion and can result in a workplace climate where people are defensive. With the right tools though, someone can effectively deliver and respond to constructive criticism as well as use that information to develop and grow more. Offering constructive feedback can be more stressful than receiving it, because we know that we may offend others by telling them something they may not want to hear. Anticipating the confrontational nature of the encounter is unnerving, but can be best minimized by having a good attitude, carefully planning the message and being well prepared in the delivery. A good attitude is imperative to fostering development in others, positively influencing work relationships, and most importantly, will also help make others feel more receptive to the constructive feedback you may have. The essence of a more positive attitude is respect†¦that comes from how we construct messages; how we speak and act can be more important that the words themselves, as well as paying close attention not only to what you say but also to your nonverbal behavior, including your vocal tone and facial expression, when expressing yourself. (Adler, 2010) In addition, part of having respect and demonstrating equality for others is showing a genuine concern for them and being honest in communicating, which also gives others a feeling of being valued and appreciated. Planning your constructive feedback content is also essential n making your message most effective, and minimizing a defensive reaction (Adler, 2010). â€Å"Organize your thoughts or the sequence of events that you would like to discuss†¦and might even wish to refer to note card†¦as it ensures you get the information correct and can offer the impression that you have carefully considered your comments† (Garne r, 2006). Your message should define the problem clearly with sufficient detail, stay concise, accurate and on topic. The message should address one topic so as to not overwhelm the receiver and potentially cause the individual to become defensive. A good idea, would be to include any ways in which the recipient will benefit from heeding your feedback. When receiving criticism, a respondent will be more accepting if their strengths and positive actions are acknowledged. Finally, the delivery of your feedback should be in a way that is most conducive to convincing the receiving individual. The use of descriptive statements, or â€Å"I† language, refocuses evaluative statements on the speaker instead of judging the other person because they clearly state the reason for bringing up the matter as well as the speaker’s feelings (Adler, 2010). Avoid using â€Å"you† statements that can very easily make the situation take a turn for the worse by making the individual defensive. Pay close attention to your nonverbal communication, so as to avoid demeaning the other person, such as speaking loudly, sounding condescending or pointing your finger (Adler, 2010). Finally when giving constructive feedback, it’s most important to deliver your criticism privately (Adler, 2010). There is nothing worse than feeling embarrassed and belittled, because you feel like you’re being scolded in front of others. Reacting in defense is very easy to come by when you’re on the receiving end of constructive criticism. â€Å"Receiving criticism can actually trigger the flight-or-fight response†¦feeling the desire to withdraw (flight) or retaliate (fight)† (Garner, 2006). Luckily, there are many strategies that can be implemented to help in listening non-defensively and might leave you more open to the feedback. Some strategies include recognizing your body’s physical response to criticism-prone situations, keeping an open mind, recognizing there may be truth in the criticism, and viewing it as an opportunity for personal growth. As you realize that you are being criticized you may feel your heart race a bit, your blood pressure rise, your mouth become a bit dry, and your skin temperature may change†¦however, it may be best to simply realize that these are somewhat instinctual responses and succumbing to them may not best serve your long-term goals† (Garner, 20 06). We learn something new every day from the people around us, especially in the workplace where there are a wide range of skills and knowledge spanning different departments (Adler, 2010). By keeping an open mind and listening thoughtfully, you may learn something useful. While it can be hard to listen sincerely when being criticized, asking for examples or clarification, paraphrasing and even keeping notes of your critic’s comments can give you something to do besides defend yourself†¦and will show your critic that you take his or her comments seriously† (Adler, 2010). Doing these things, they may allow you to be more open to recognizing there might be some validity in your critic’s feedback, especially if this is an opinion others may share. You must avoid excuses, rationalizations and blaming others so as to deviate from the situation. Being honest with yourself is most important and taking the opportunity to develop and grow will benefit you in the long run. It is both the critic and the recipient’s responsibility to work together as a team to focus on finding a cooperative solution that meets everyone’s needs. â€Å"The goal of critical communication is to ensure that there is a dialogue†¦important information may be missed that might help better assess the particulars of the situation† (Garner, 2006). Both party’s perspective should be heard with respect and with as much of a non-judgmental attitude as possible. New information can potentially be uncovered that may influence one’s view of the circumstances, that would otherwise remain undisclosed if the other’s case is not fully heard. Finding someone to place fault on is counterproductive and will not work for satisfying both individuals. A more gainful approach is focusing on finding an effective solution is most beneficial to everyone involved (Adler, 2010). The goal is not to have a winner and loser, but to have a mutual understanding about the topic and how things can change for the better (Garner, 2006).

Provide Leadership Across the Organisation

PROVIDE LEADERSHIP ACROSS THE ORGANISATION ASSESSMENT BY CHARLOTTE MCMANUS LEADER: The 14th Dalai Lama 1. INTRODUCTION The reason for selecting the Dalai Lama is because he has achieved many things in his life and is now considered amongst many researchers and writers, as one of the greatest leaders of all time. He has been a leader of a country, a religion, and more significantly, the leader of the spiritual world. He is a fascinating character that has experienced many difficult situations which increases the intrigue of this leader and the skills that he possess. He leads and promotes a way of life that encapsulates all humans, in all countries, of all religions, and uses very unique leadership skills, which will be very interesting to study. 1. 2BACKGROUND The Dalai Lama is a re-incarnation of a long line (13 before him) of â€Å"tulkus  (an enlightened Tibetan Buddhist lama/teacher) who descend from the  bodhisattva  Avalokitesvara†. The first Dalai Lama was Gendun Drup who lived in 1391 – 1474. Tenzin Gyatso was enthroned as the 14th Dalai Lama in 1940 when he was five years old, and assumed â€Å"temporal responsibility of Tibet† (www. alailamafoundation. org) when he was 15 years old. He experienced an invasion of Tibet by the Chinese and escaped into exile in India when he was 24, making him the first ever Dalai Lama ever to leave Tibet. The Dalai Lama has dedicated his life to promoting a world free of violence and suffering, where all nature can live in peace and harmony together, irrespective of nationality and religious beliefs. He believes that through meditation, compassion and the respect for all life, each person will achieve happiness and contentment in their life. 1. 3ACHIEVEMENTS The Dalai Lama has achieved many things in his life to date, including being awarded with one of the most recognised awards in the world in 1989; The Nobel Peace Prize, which is a true indication of his world-recognised contributions to promote peace. To achieve this award the Dalai Lama has spent his entire life striving to create a more peaceful environment for the human race, with a great focus on reclaiming human rights in Tibet. This mission has seen him travel all over the world, meeting with leaders of many countries presenting new initiatives and being relentless in his message and strength to resolve these issues. These include his appeals to the United Nations during his exile, in 1959, 1961 and 1965, which resulted in three resolutions being adopted by the General Assembly. In 1987 he presented the â€Å"Five Point Peace Plan† to the Congressional Humans Rights Caucus. This was an appeal to the US Congress for the restoration of human rights in Tibet and to announce it as a zone of peace, therefore stopping the dumping of nuclear waste in Tibet, as well as urging â€Å"earnest negotiations on the future of Tibet and relations between the Tibetan and Chinese people† (http://nobelprize. org). In 1989 he offered the â€Å"Middle Way Proposal† at the European Parliament, which was not accepted, however, the Dalai Lama again proposed this in 1996 and 1997, when a preliminary opinion poll was held and the policy was adopted by Parliament. In April 1991, Tenzin Gyatsu travelled to the US and met with George Bush, which ended a boycott with the nation, and also resulted in US Congress passing the â€Å"Tibetan Policy Act 2002†, formalising US support for dialogue between China and the Dalai Lama, and also providing funding to Tibet for development projects within the country. This was a very strategic decision ade by the Dalai to create a valuable relationship with one of the most powerful counties in the world, and also resulted in the US awarding the Dalai Lama with the highest civilian award, the Congressional Gold Medal, in 2007. Whilst negotiating with parliaments and congress worldwide, the Dalai Lama has rebuilt communities for those living in exile, set up educational, cultural and religious institutions all over the world to assist in maintaining the Tibetan culture and teach Buddhism. He still continues to lead a population of an estimated â€Å"500 million Buddhists worldwide† (http://www. thedhamma. com). 1. 4LEADERSHIP CHARACTERISTICS It is very clear that the Dalai Lama’s objectives are to restore â€Å"equality, respect, trust and mutual benefit† (www. nobelprize. org) between Tibet and China. His concerns are for â€Å"all members of the human family† (www. nobelprize. org), and he has remained consistent and relentless in his message which has resulted in loyalty and dedication from his followers. Personal values are very important to this leader, and he sets a moral example to his followers, yet also during the most difficult situations he still appears to act rationally. For example, it is reported that â€Å"20% of the Tibetan population have died in combat with the Chinese† (www. dityabirla. com), yet he consistently acts with integrity, compassion and empathy, whilst remaining strategic and controlled in his negotiations with this nation. The Dalai Lama’s values and morals are what lead him; this encourages his followers to also align their values with his. He sticks to his principles of right conduct, and therefore sets a moral example to his followers, which results in their unwavering support for him and his cause. These values and morals have prevented the Dalai Lama from behaving violently when in a threatening situation as they are part of his psychological makeup, and moral reasoning. Theory Y is applicable in this scenario as the Dalai Lama leads on the premise that people are intrinsically motivated, meaning that how they feel will impact and influence them more than external motivation. Because of his spiritual strengths the Dalai Lama has developed the highest stage of moral reasoning, which as Kohlberg has expressed is not always possible. Whilst Gyatsu’s morals remain the most important driver in his leadership, his culture is also something he is very proud of and is something that he is consistently working to retain. This is evident through his part in the leading the development of towns of Tibetans in exile across the world that celebrate and acknowledge the Tibetan culture, in particular, Buddhism, which has also clearly driven his behaviours and attitudes towards life. There are numerous groups following the Dalai Lama’s Buddhist teachings, with followers travelling all over the world to get the opportunity to meet or listen to his teachings live. This group cohesion ensures reciprocal influence and maximises the influence of his messages, which is another reason why the Dalai Lama spends so much of his time travelling. He regularly visits these groups to minimise interpersonal conflicts between the groups. It also allows for new groups to form at each event, which results in the group development process repeating itself throughout the world. The Dalai Lama’s leadership is both authentic and servant leadership. He promotes self-awareness, openness and inclusivity within the human family, yet he also acts as a servant for the people of Tibet to fight for their right to live in peace. I would say that the Dalai Lama is a transformational leader who provides vision for his followers and inspires them to â€Å"embrace his vision† of peace and happiness for all. He allows them to dream of what they can achieve, then designs a way for them to achieve it, and then continues to develop it through initiatives and programs that allow the vision to materialise, as we have seen in section 1. 3 â€Å"Achievements†. 1. 5TYPE OF POWER Due to his position within the Buddhism community the Dalai Lama possesses referent power over his followers, this has developed over a long period of time, which has allowed his followers to witness his leadership skills and what he is prepared to experience/sacrifice for his beliefs. This has resulted in his following growing consistently over the past 70 years, as people trust, respect and love him, therefore increasing his influence and support. As it is believed that the Dalai Lama is a reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama he also possesses a level of legitimate power that has been passed down to him when he was enthroned as the 14th Dalai Lama. This legitimate power would only be relevant to those that believe in Buddhism, therefore believe in the concept of reincarnation. This legitimate power is not a power that the Dalai Lama exercises, as he claims that he is â€Å"a simple monk from Tibet, I am no one special† (Nobel Prize acceptance speech). This claim also contributes to the respect that his followers have for him and also helps them relate to him through his personalised leadership, resulting in stronger bonds being formed. The Dalai Lama is also a community leader, as he does not have position power from any country, and also has minimal resources to communicate his message through. He also possesses the skills to build social capital, as discussed above and mobilisation, through the travel he does all over the world to communicate with his followers. 1. 6PERSONAL TRAITS The Dalai Lama uses his personal traits to communicate with people more effectively, which in turn ensures he gains their trust and respect. He is often smiling at people, listens intently, and always maintains eye contact with the listening or speaker. He appears to be comfortable discussing all topics and never interrupts the speaker during conversation, but listens, encourages them to continue and then responds calmly. The Dalai Lama speaks three languages, Tibetan, Chinese and English. This ensures he can communicate and connect strongly with his fellow countrymen in Tibet. It is also important that he can communicate effectively with those that he has conflicts with, the Chinese. English is also a language he has learnt, as this is the most common language spoken in the Western world and therefore means maximum exposure of his message to those across the world. When people talk about their encounter with the Dalai Lama, many mention his insatiable laugh and kind smile that result in them â€Å"warming to him† (www. youtube. com) and instantly wanting to listen and absorb his message. It has been reported by some, that he possesses an aura that has an amazingly positive effect on a person and is communicated to the receiver purely through facial expressions, including eye contact. As these aspects of the communication process makes up 50% of the message, it therefore ensures clarity and understanding for the receiver of the message. . 7LESSONS TO BE LEARNT The Dalai Lama has a lot to teach those that analyse his leadership skills, but I would say that the most profound teaching is that you must connect with your followers, by gaining their trust and commitment. This can only be achieved by being consistent in your message, whilst acting with integrity, and providing your group or team with a vision, and assisting with achieving the fi nal goal through support and development of the vision. It is also important to leave regrets behind and take forward the lessons which have been learnt by past mistakes, which ensures group cohesion, therefore maximising the chances of achieving that goal or objective. To be a successful leder you must be passionate about achieving your objective, as this will be communicated to your followers, therefore encouraging loyalty and passion iin them, whilst inspiring them to achieve their goal. Mentoring is also another important aspect of leadership, as it ssists in the changing of behaviours and also encourages aspirations in the less experienced, whilst passing on valuable skills and lessons learnt from a more experienced leader. This has been apparent by the lessons and support that the Dalai Lama has received from many leaders around the world, including religious political and organisational, and also by the time he spent as a child learning about Buddhism and Tibetan culture. 1. 8CONCLUSION In conclusion, it has been very interesting and inspiring to read about this leader, i have learnt about many skills that are required to be a successful and inspirational leader. However, this spiritual leader may have many more skills that I believe cannot be duplicated without many hours of meditation and the study of his culture. Yet, this in itself highlights how effective the Dalai Lama is in communicating his message in relation to Buddhism, and how inspirational he really is.

Heart of Darkness Study Guide Essay

Chapter 1 1. The setting of the story begins on the Nellie, a ship. The turn of the tide is significant because it gives the men on board extra time to talk, and Marlow begins telling his story. In addition, symbolically, the turning of the tide conveys a change, and perhaps, foreshadowing of the story. The author spends a lot of time dealing with light because it is the main symbol in the novella. Light and darkness are universal symbols that represent good and evil. Although not explicitly stated, those who have the light are those who are â€Å"civilized†, and those who have the darkness are those who remain â€Å"uncivilized†, particularly the people living in Africa. 2. Marlow appears different from everyone else on the ship because of how the author describes Marlow’s character. Conrad describes Marlow as having â€Å"sunken cheeks†, a â€Å"yellow complexion†, and resembling that of an â€Å"idol†. Marlow seems ill through this description. Sunken cheeks convey a lack of nourishment, as well as exhaustion. The color yellow in literature has two meanings: happiness and sickness. In this context, one may infer the color yellow to symbolize Marlow’s sickness, or corruption, as it correlates to the rest of his description. Lastly, an â€Å"idol† connotes a phantom. Marlow appears to be different from everyone on the ship through his description. The audience is civilized. All of the men have jobs, a lawyer, an accountant, the director, and the outside narrator. The story also explains how Marlow remained the only one out of the men to still follow the sea. He also portrays how he did not â€Å"represent his class.† This suggests that Marlow may not be as â€Å"civilized† as the other men. As Marlow begins to tell his story, the narrator explains how Marlow is about to embark on another â€Å"inconclusive† experience. The word inconclusive suggests not fully answering doubts and questions. In addition, Marlow begins to remark the â€Å"weakness of many tellers of tales who seem so often unaware of what their audience would best like to hear.† This conveys how Marlow hopes to interest, or intrigue, his audience. Marlow feels inclined to share his story so that his audience better understands him. 3. The Roman reacted to England, a dark place, by â€Å"civilizing† it, or conquering its territory. At that time, England looked like the â€Å"very end of the world.† It possessed â€Å"sand banks, marshes,  forests, savages.† The story conveys how there was little to eat for a civilized man and only the Thames water for drink. England was a dark place at that time because it was uncivilized. 4. According to Marlow, what redeems the conquest of the Earth is the idea only; the idea that men will unselfishly sacrifice themselves for. Marlow explains how conquering land, and the land’s people, really is not a pretty thing. I think Marlow breaks off because it is a sensitive subject for him to discuss, and maybe only something he truly understands. 5. Marlow keeps comparing the river to a serpent. The comparison is interesting because a serpent symbolizes evil, corruption, and temptation. Similar to the story of Adam and Eve, a snake, or the river in this case, tempts the protagonist. 6. Aside from knitting, the two women in the office appear to be secretaries, or receptionists, for the doctor. Both women appear to symbolize fate; they are the fates who spin, measure, or cute the thread of life. This symbol is an allusion to Greek mythology. As Marlow is progressing toward his journey to Africa, it is in the Company’s office that he meets these two women. 7. Fresleven went insane because he had spent so much time in the jungle. After attempting to stab the village chief, Fresleven was killed. The conflict began with an argument over a couple of hens, which cost him, his life. The village became abandoned because the natives became superstitious; they were all very afraid to kill a white man. 8. Marlow’s Aunt calls Marlow an â€Å"emissary of light† because she believes that during his journey to Africa, Marlow is going to bring knowledge and civilization to the â€Å"savages.† This reflects the imperialism during that time period. 9. The man-of-war is a lifeless forested stretch of coast. Once they reach the Congo River, Marlow boards another ship to journey further upriver. The man-of-war portends the lifelessness of many coasts in Africa; most parts of the place appear corrupt and dreary. 10. Marlow describes the Company’s station as a â€Å"Grove of Death†, in which among the trees there are dying natives and recurring dynamite blasts. I think the natives allowed themselves to be bullied by the white men because they felt inferior. During this time, imperialism was popular and the belief that a white man was better than a black man was common. I also do not think natives had the proper technology, means, or knowledge to necessarily stand up to a group of white men either. 11. The accountant is described as an elegant white man with a clean and  well-mannered appearance. The accountant is described as a â€Å"miracle† because he represents the Company, or how the Company wishes to be seen. The accountant is devoted to the Company. The station manager is described as an average man. The manager’s supreme gift is his ability to never get sick. Marlow does not like the station manager because he is jealous of Kurtz, and also because Marlow describes him as â€Å"originating nothing.† This suggests how the manager lacks innovation and is devoted to keeping up with appearances, although he has nothing to offer. The manager comments about how ‘men should only come out here if they don’t have anything inside.’ This conveys that in order to succeed in the ivory trade business and survive in Africa, one must be ruthless. 12. The brick maker appears to be idle as Marlow remarks on how there â€Å"wasn’t a fragment of a brick anywhere in the station.† The brick maker is waiting for his opportunity to move up the ladder within the company. 13. Kurtz’ painting is of a blindfolded woman carrying a lighted torch, in which her face is appears deceived by shadows. I suppose the painting reflects the men traveling to Africa, blindfolded, to civilize the natives, who represent the light. The woman is blindfolded as the European men are blinded by their negative influence on the natives. The shadows suggest darkness, which suggests corruption. 14. The manager and brick maker are upset at Kurtz’ pre-eminence because they are envious at his success. This conveys the competition, desperation, and corruption during this time period to do whatever it takes to be successful, powerful, and rich. For these European men, money was power and that was their desire. Marlow lies to the brick maker by playing along to further understand his motives. In addition, Marlow allows the brick maker to think he has an influence in Europe to gain information about Kurtz. 15. Marlow was unable to get the rivets from the Company. This suggests how the enterprise is allowing loose policies and for things to follow apart; this conveys a lack of professionalism. The manager does not want the rivets to make it out because he wants his Eldorado Exploring Expedition to follow through. 16. The Eldorado Exploring Expedition suggests an expedition in search for gold during this time. Although there was no gold in Africa, ivory was very valuable. This expedition was led by the manager’s uncle. Its purpose is to find ivory and exploit African resources. Chapter 2 1. The manager survives because he cannot get sick. His plan to â€Å"beat Kurtz† is by delaying the trip to the Inner Station, that way hopefully Kurtz’ illness will kill him because he will not receive the proper care in time. 2. The crew of the steamboat was the cannibals. Although savage, the cannibals are much better at controlling their behavior than the pilgrims. The pilgrims appear willing to begin destruction at any cause in order to gain ivory. The definition of â€Å"civilized† seems to belong to those who are able to exercise self-restraint. 3. The drums symbolize the culture that still exists in Africa. The forest appears to be moving throughout the journey, which may be foreshadowing how the natives are moving with the boat to assure that it does not meet Kurtz. 4. â€Å"The earth seemed unearthly† suggests the discomfort Marlow feels along his journey. On a larger scale, this conveys how Africa has become a place lacking of normality and humanity; Marlow expresses how he feels separated from Earth. â€Å"That was the worst of us, the suspicion that they weren’t human,† suggests how corrupt the men were; they appear to show no signs of humanity. 5. Marlow discovers a book about seamanship. The book appears admirable because it is the only bit of reality Marlow has encountered recently. 6. When they wake up, eight miles from the station, the coast has been covered in a thick fog which keeps them stationary. The fog is a white, however, it does not represent light or goodness. The fog suggests how Marlow’s steamer does not know exactly where they are or what lies ahead in their journey; everything appears unclear physically and emotionally. 7. Marlow claims that the natives will not attack because the â€Å"nature of their noise† seems to convey sadness. In addition, Marlow does not understand how there could be an attack with the severe fog. 8. The sounding man is killed first in the attack because he is the first man seen. The river comes to symbolize not only the way in which Marlow begins his journey into himself, but as they venture further up the river, Marlow begins to realize he has more in common with the natives than Europeans. In addition, the river continues to represent the heart of temptation. The helmsman gets killed because he began to freak out, abandoning his position to grab a gun. Marlow drives the natives away by using the steam-whistle. 9. Marlow wanted to meet Kurtz because he had heard such interesting, wild things about him. Kurtz  represents the thrilling and horrifying wildness that Marlow desired. Kurtz abandoned his life in Europe to pursue fortune in Africa. 10. Kurtz head was compared to that of an ivory ball. This suggests how important ivory was to this man; it was the only thing on his mind. Conrad uses a simile, irony, as well as symbolism to convey this. 11. Kurtz paper is about how white men must treat Africans as though the white men are much greater, super natural beings so that they can exert power over them. At the end, the scribble proclaims to exterminate all brutes. 12. The harlequin is the Russian man, Kurtz’ disciple. The harlequin knows a lot about Kurtz, he claims to only listen to Kurtz, and he acts only has information for Marlow. Chapter 3 1. The harlequin is boyish in appearance, and he is young. His brightly patched clothes are similar to the maps in the office Marlow had admired. The harlequin represents youth and adventure. The harlequin is still alive due to Kurtz’ influence. 2. The stakes outside of Kurtz’ compound were human heads. Most were faced in, while a couple was faced outward. They are the heads of â€Å"rebels†. 3. A group of native Africans carry Kurtz on a stretcher. Marlow describes Kurtz as resembling â€Å"an animated image of death carved out of ivory.† This further suggests how Kurtz was willing to die in pursuit of ivory, which symbolizes power. 4. Kurtz brings his guns with him. Since the natives view Kurtz as a deity, they believe that the guns hold great power. Kurtz brings them to further emphasize his power over the natives. 5. The â€Å"wild and gorgeous apparition of a woman† is a native woman, Kurtz’ mistress. Conrad pairs here with being a warrior. 6. Right before Kurtz dies, Marlow recognizes all of Kurtz’ emotions. This relates to Kurtz’ last words â€Å"the horror! The horror!† because perhaps Kurtz realized that the life he was living was actually not worth dying for. Marlow blows out the candle because it is symbolic of Kurtz’ life. 7. â€Å"He had something to say† relates to Kurtz, who always had something to say, while Marlow had nothing to say. Marlow believes that Kurtz last words are a victory because he thinks he realized his negative impact in the world and his corruption at that moment. 8. Back in the city, Marlow discovers that Kurtz had many other talents such as a gift in music and writing. 9. Marlow gives up the idea that the Europeans belong in Africa. He has gone about doing that by no longer choosing to pursue that lifestyle. 10. The Intended is Kurtz’ fiancà ©e. She  is described as being beautiful and often connected with imagery of light and heaven. Marlow’s belief that women live in beautiful worlds, which should not be disturbed, is relevant here as this beautiful woman is not intertwined with Kurtz’ alter lifestyle, his corrupt lifestyle. 11. Kurtz’ Intended claimed to have known him more than anyone else on Earth. However, she did not know the type of lifestyle Kurtz was living. Marlow tells the Intended that Kurtz’ last words were for her name. Marlow claims that â€Å"it would have been too dark† to tell her the truth. I think the Heart of Darkness is when one allows him or herself to live in a false reality, allowing themselves to lie and deceive others for their own benefit.