Plains Indian Culture in the Late 19th Century Essay

The study of culture helps us understand the rise and fall of different tribes during the 19th century America. In this paper, the primary concern is the decline and fall of Plains Indian culture in the late 19th century. The Plains Indians are also called North American Plains or Buffalo Indians who settled the Great Plains (â€Å"The Plain Indians†). The Great Plains is now called the central United States and south-central Canada which has been the long time place for Plains Indians (â€Å"The Plain Indians†). In line with that, at the time of the Civil War, most Plains Indians tribes were independent, resourceful, and capable of defending their integrity. In a span of twenty five years, they were defeated, demoralized, and dependent on the United States government. With that, we are convinced that there is a need to examine and trace the cultural development of the Plains Indians during the late 19th century. The Plains Indian culture is rich for its remnants are even known today. However, the culture of the Plains Indians was destroyed and altered from the time the white settlers transferred into the region where they are found (â€Å"The Plain Indians†). There are many devastating effects brought out by the existence of white settlers in the region. First, the hunting economy of the Plains Indians was considered obsolete as the white settlers established the extermination of the buffalo. As a result, the hunting economy was crippled which affected so many members of the tribe. Second, the introduction of metal utensils and cloth by the white settlers caused the collapse of the native crafts industry. The use of manufactured articles dominated the region and merchants of native products faced a tremendous decrease of business profits (â€Å"The Plain Indians†). And third, the concept of the division of labor was affected due to the introduction of the plow in farming endeavors. Besides, rare diseases and warfare with white settlers displaced many Plains Indians which caused their dependence on the American government. Another ordinary yet exquisite culture of Plain Indians is the relevance of women to the development of their culture. Plain Indian women during the late 19th century are capable to displaying myriad talents in relation to music, arts, literature, and even ancient entrepreneurship (McCoy 1). However, the crucial role of Plain Indian women in their cultural development has been poorly understood when the white settlers begin to alter their daily activities (McCoy 1). In fact, the Plains Indian women as a minority group provided a strong influence on the history of the country (Conlin 1). Women played a vital role to the economy at that time since they are able to work in fields and work household chores at the same time. If not because of the negative impact of the white settlers, the Plains Indians could keep their culture intact. Finally, the culture of the Plains Indians is rich and peculiar as shown in films and television shows. The truth is that the Plains Indian tribes tried hard to protect their cultural development not to be corrupted by the white settlers. These people primarily earn a living through farming and hunting. Plains Indian women are also instrumental in the development of the arts, literature, music and commerce. However, the culture of the Plains Indians was destroyed due to the introduction of manufactured products and the extermination of buffalo led by the white settlers. Eventually, the cultural development of the region was diminished and altered and the Plain Indians were demoralized forcing them to depend so much on the American government. Works Cited McCoy, Ron. 24 September 2007. Collector’s Guide. . February 6, 2009 < http://www. collectorsguide. com/fa/fa094. shtml >. â€Å"The Plains Indians†. 2009. 50 MEGS Website. February 6, 2009 . Conlin, Joseph. The American Past: A Survey of American History. United States of America: Wadsworth Publishing Company, 2006.

Project planning and evaluation Essay

Before anyone is going to do something, there is nothing as sensible as planning. A plan as we know is something thought about and chalked out in advance before the real action takes place and is actually a recipe for success. But then, the word ‘plan’ does not need much of a definition. It has been used so much that it has become quite hackneyed. So, we all know what it means, but how many of us really resort to planning before we start a course of action. I’m not referring to a mental picture that we chart out in our minds that is in one word, vague. I mean a real plan in black and white, that is, put down on a piece of paper. It is so important because once we write down something, it clears up a lot of hazy areas and opens aspects that we probably overlooked. As the saying goes, â€Å"Trying to manage a project without project management is like trying to play a football game without a game plan†. In my M.A. class with our professor, Dr. Cirineo, I have learned so much about the significance of planning a project and of course, evaluation with the help of my classmates who have exerted their efforts in reporting the assigned topics. I have also done my part when I have reported about the Economic Analysis and I have learned so much from this, too. These are my views as I have studied and listened to the reports: II. INPUT: 1. PLANNING, APPRAISAL AND DESIGN (reported by: Ms. Jelly Rose S. Victor) The first phase of the Process of Project Management Cycle taught me that planning should begin with the end in sight. Good project plans begins with good implementation, methodologies and best practices that are consistent,  controlled and deliverables that meet expectations. If advanced preparation has been made, by the end of the meeting, the implementation is defined, the activities surrounding the project plan are established, the administrative procedures are implemented and the project monitoring and control processes are developed. In designing a project, I have learned that it should always be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bounded) so that it would become valid and easy to realize. Project appraisal is also an important part of this phase because through this, you will be able to ensure that the expectations you have of your team members match the expectations that each individual has for themselves. As part of this process, it is important to schedule regular reviews throughout the year to suit the needs of your team. Thus, we need to appreciate the benefits we can gain from an effective appraisal process to monitor your team’s performance more than make up for the time invested. It will help increase the individual effectiveness of your team members. 2. SELECTION, APPROVAL AND ACTIVATION (reported by: Ms. Lorelyn A. Ignacio) In a project plan, it is good to know and understand that not all of the suggestions made in the plan would be approved and utilized. We still have to decide fully on what part of the plan should be selected, what should not be selected, what to approve and what to disapprove before we activate or execute our project. Why? Because there are things that we have to consider, knowing that not all things are suitable to implement based on the different situations and problems that may arise. The second phase of the Project Management Cycle made me realize that the process strives to increase productivity of the team and quality of deliverable. It enables quality control by measuring performance and comparing the same against what is planned. The simplest stage and perhaps the most complicated in practice is the execution stage which involves the integration of all inputs identified in the planning and design stage to construct the actual end product. On this part, the project manager should monitor the work of the team members on a daily basis. 3. OPERATION, CONTROL AND HANDOVER (reported by: Mrs. Marissa P. Agdong) This could be thought of as the perfecting phase, where analyzing the efficiency and quality of the project cycle from a strategic perspective allows for the optimization of the operational processes. This step-by-step process highlights each feasible step in the project management cycle. By appropriately incorporating each step of the model into the planning stage, managers can effectively forecast the deliverables and avoid losing value through accurately assessing the margins that will be produced in a given strategic initiative. The control cycle is an important part of quality control, and it not only verifies the delivery of good quality but also identifies gaps and failures that need to be addressed. Ultimately, it is a process that continuously evolves within the production process. In this phase, which is the third, I’ve learned four important steps: PLAN, DO, CHECK and ACT. 4. EVALUATION AND REFINEMENT (reported by: Ms. Bernarda T. Cudal) After listening to the reporter, I have realized that in the Process of Project Management Cycle, we should not set aside this very important stage: Evaluation and Refinement. It is a major part of learning, and can provide a wealth of useful information on the outcomes of a project or action, and the dynamics of those who undertook the work. Through the identification of the highlights and lowlights of the project, evaluation draws conclusions which can inform future decision making, and assist to define future projects and policies. Evaluation and Refinement are undertaken for a number of reasons such as to reflect on how you are developing, to see whether you need to improve the way things are being done, to be accountable to those who are funding the project, to review and adjust the methods and techniques used and how effective they are, to determine whether you have met your objectives or not and to provide information for planning future projects. 5. PROJECT IDENTIFICATION: DEFINING AND SPECIFYING THE PROJECT (reported by: Ms. Riza T. De Guzman) As I am writing this reaction paper, I have thought of imagining the different products we have worldwide. Every product has a name, unique and advertised. Why? because owners of those products want to be identified, and recognized. Same with making our own project, it should be born with a need to be identified by several customers who will be willing to provide funds as their needs would be satisfied in return. The key feature of this activity is to recognize that identifying candidate projects is something that an organization should do not just once a year but on a regular basis. To define a project, we must first identify the objectives, scope and sequence, and the resources of the project. The main purpose of specifying the project scope is to ensure a clear understanding of the business problem and the proposed solution. It is must to give a clear understanding about the project and provide a direction. Its intention is to state what is going to be in the project and what is not going to be part of the project out of scope. It must clearly define a project boundary to minimize the expectation gap between the client and the team. 6. SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS (reported by: Ms. Diana T. Rabaca) Before we start implementing and executing our projects or before we build it somewhere, it is very important to analyze the present situation that is being encountered in a certain area. In this way, our project would become successful, just because it becomes an answer to the problems arose in a certain area. For example, there are so many stores that are selling food in that place, but no one sells drinks yet, and customers need it, then you are the one to serve it! Situational Analysis is the first step in formulating a plan. It identifies and prioritizes problem situations affecting the target population or specific segments of the population, providing possible solutions and actions needed to solve a problem. It seeks to answer several questions such as : What is the problem?; Why is there a problem?; Who are affected by the problem?; and What has been done to solve the problem?. The information needed to answer these questions are both quantitative and qualitative such as the outcomes, the resources, the services and the facilities, the acess and utilization of services and facilities and the environment of course. 7. MARKET ANALYSIS (reported by: Ms. Jeanaline A. Ajel) I have learned that the goal of Market Analysis is to determine the attractiveness of a market, both now and in the future. It is part of the industry analysis and this in turn of the global environmental analysis. Through this analysis, the opportunities, strengths, weaknesses and threats of a company can be identified. Market Segmentation is the basis for a differentiated market analysis. Differentiation is important because the saturation of consumption, which exists due to the increasing competition in offered products. Consumers ask for more individual products and services and are better informed about the range of products than before. As a consequence, Market Segmentation is indispensable. To identify and classify the relevant market, a market classification or segmentation has to be done. 8. TECHNICAL ANALYSIS (reported by: Mr. Leonardo Diez, Jr.) Our reporter in technical analysis had explained this report comprehensively by using different concrete examples based on real life situations. Accordingly, Technical Analysis is a method of evaluating securities by analyzing statistics generated by market activity, such as past prices and volume. Technical analysts do not attempt to measure a security’s intrinsic value, but instead use charts and other tools to identify patterns that can suggest future activity. The reporter was fair enough that he decided to discuss both the positive and the negative side of Technical Analysis. These are the strengths: If the objective is to predict the future price, then it makes sense to focus on price movements. Price movements usually precede fundamental developments. By focusing on price action, technicians are automatically focusing on the future. These are the weaknesses: Argument is the fact that technical analysis is open to interpretation. It is in the eye of the beholder. It is subjective and our personal biases can be reflected in the analysis. In conclusion, Technical Analysis in terms of security is somehow, debatable. 9. ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS (reported by: Mr. Danny Cruz) In project planning, it is important to identify the constraints that may affect the natural environment. We should always consider how our projects would affect other people, communities, and the environment like road construction, logging, and tree clearing and building a hydroelectric dam. Remember that Environmental Analysis is often required by law, but the process is intended to be a very useful planning tool to help make good decisions and improve projects. So we should consider this not just because it is a must but because it is systematic, interdisciplinary, and develop practical alternatives to the proposed action. The reporter gave the following recommended practices: Open project information to public scrutiny; Involve all parties affected by the project and learn to communicate. 10. OPERATIONAL ANALYSIS (reported by: Ms. Racquel R. Santos) I have realized that operational analysis is an excellent method of assessing the financial performance of the business, determining whether the cost of production is compatible with performance numbers and strategic goals. It looks closely at financial and resource investments, and determines whether adjustments must be made so that the company’s strategic goals may be met in an efficient, cost effective manner. Thorough operational analysis ought to address a few principal questions in its effort to ascertain if operations are efficiently meeting strategic planning. The first key area to be considered is whether financial and resource investment is delivering planned output to the optimum consumer base. It can also determine if there is any existing need for additional investment and recommend areas where investment could be reallocated or streamlined. Thus, in conducting an Operational Analysis, we have to observe, interview, report and conclude so that a gap analysis can be conducted and adjustments may be made. 11. ADMINISTRATIVE ANALYSIS (reported by: Ms. Joe – Ann C. Magno) Aside from understanding the significance of administrative analysis in project planning, I have also realized that there are differences between the word â€Å"Administration† and â€Å"Management† in its role to project planning and implementation. The difference between the two can be summarized under 2 categories: Functions and Usage. On the basis of functions, Administration is a thinking function because it is a decision – making function while Management is a doing function because it is an executing function. On the basis of usage, however, Administration is applicable to non – business concerns such as club, schools, hospitals and the like, while Management is applicable to business concerns such as profit-making organizations. Administration represents owners of the enterprise who earn return on their capital invested & profits in the form of dividend. Management constitutes the employees of the organization who are paid remuneration (in the form of salaries & wages). 12. FINANCIAL ANALYSIS (reported by Mr. Joseph P. Mendoza) Is the project cost reasonable? Can it be done? How long will it take to design? How much will each one cost to make? How much will it cost to bring the product to market? These are the questions arise as I listened to the report on Financial Analysis. For investors, to engage in a new investment project, the project has to be financially viable. Invested capital must show the potential to generate an economic return to investors at least equal to that available from other similarly risky investments. For me, I agree with that because I think, no one would engage himself into business without money and interest involved in return. A number of reasons why to conduct a financial analysis are: first, it provides quality information for decision-making, it helps attract equity investments and securing funding from lending institutions and other monetary sources and lastly, it identifies reasons whether to proceed or not to proceed with the project. 13. ECONOMIC ANALYSIS (reported by me: Ms. Analyn M. Cruz) Wow! This is my report! I am so glad that Dr. Cirineo gave me the opportunity to discuss this over the class for it became my favorite subject way back 2005 when I was a senior highschool. It gave me a room to reopen my notes and study the lesson which my favorite teacher used to discuss in our class with excellence, clarity and comprehension. As we all know, Economics is the social science that analyzes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. The term economics comes from the Ancient Greek ÃŽ ¿Ã¡ ¼ °ÃŽ ºÃŽ ¿ÃŽ ½ÃŽ ¿ÃŽ ¼ÃŽ ¯ÃŽ ± (oikonomia, â€Å"management of a household, administration†) from ÃŽ ¿Ã¡ ¼ ¶ÃŽ ºÃŽ ¿Ãâ€š (oikos, â€Å"house†) + ÃŽ ½ÃÅ'ÃŽ ¼ÃŽ ¿Ãâ€š (nomos, â€Å"custom† or â€Å"law†), hence â€Å"rules of the house(hold)† Economic Analysis is a process whereby the strengths and weaknesses of an economy are analyzed. Economic analysis is important in order to understand the exact condition of an economy. – The purpose of the economic feasibility assessment is to determine the positive economic benefits to the organization that the proposed system will provide. Now that we have temporal project plan to answer to: What will be done?, Who will do it?, When will it be done? What are the necessary resources? We still have to answer: How much will it cost? and How will the resource  capital be applied? Why? because Money is important in the enterprise world. Our projects live in this context. Enterprises have a lot of projects, and the cost is an important criteria. ACCORDING TO THE HANDBOOK ON ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF INVESTMENT OPERATIONS (WB, 1998) – we have to consider the following: What is the objective of the project? What will happen if it implemented, and what if it is not? Is the project the best alternative? Are there any separable components and how good are they separately? Who are the gainers and losers? Is the project financially sustainable? What are the fiscal and environmental impacts? Is the project worthwhile? What is the risk of the project not achieving its objectives? Economic analysis of sector investment programs should include a clear rationale for the expenditure, motivated by a desire to correct market failure or alleviate poverty, otherwise public spending simply crowds out private supply, resulting in few net benefits to the economy. I have ended my report by letting the whole class reflect on the EXCELLENT TIPS given by WARREN BUFFET, a business man. And it goes like this†¦ On Earning: â€Å"Never depend on single income. Make investment to create a second source.† On Spending: â€Å"If you buy things you do not need, soon you will have to sell things you need.† On Savings: â€Å"Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving.† On Taking Risk: â€Å"Never test the depth of river with both the feet.† On Investment: â€Å"Do not put all your eggs in one basket.† On Expectations: â€Å"Honesty is very expensive gift. Do not expect it from cheap people.† 14. SOCIAL ANALYSIS (reported by: Ms. Sherilyn P. Navat) I have understood the report through the help of illustrations shown by the presentor. When we say social, it involves to public, the community or the society. Thus, in Social Analysis, we have to consider the social characteristics of an area, including its demographic structure, general quality of life, social services and social justice. The framework for Social Entry Points includes five entry points such as Social Diversity and Gender, Institution, Rules and Behavior, Stakeholders, Participation and Social Risk. Five entry points, one result because team will have a clear  map of the socio-cultural barriers and bridges to project goals, a good sense of the institutional arrangements and resources they will need and a set of indicators which to measure their success in meeting the project’s development objective. Through this, I have realized that BETTER DATA + BETTER ANALYSIS = BETTER PROJECT. 15. POLITICAL ANALYSIS (reported by: Mrs. Ma. Socorro L. Dayao) At first, there was a big question mark and a lot of questions that came in my mind not knowing that there could also be a so – called Political Analysis involved in Project Planning and Evaluation. But later on, after the report has been made, I have now realized that the Political Analysis, which is the last of all the analyses discussed, plays an important role in project planning, designing, implementing, monitoring and evaluation. Political Analysis is a one way to develop strategic approach to external players. It is a process of disaggregating the key players in a community or policy environment, identifying how they influence progress toward your goals, and developing strategies to interact with them to advance your goals. There are seven key elements involved in the political analysis framework: the Actors, Motivations/Interests, Participation, Resources, Strategies, Tactics, Influence and Action Channel. Individuals who have the same interest or motivation might not necessarily be involved or active in a particular issue or project. In addition to their level of interest or motivation, each party’s ability to participate will depend on: their likelihood of success, visibility of the issue, costs of participating, and What opportunities they have to participate. The extent and nature of each actor’s participation will also depend on the resources that favor their objectives/interests. So, we must not be negatively too much affected by them. Let’s take them as â€Å"mixed blessings†. 16. PROJECT APPRAISAL AND PROJECT SELECTION (reported by: Ms. Rodelyn G. Pidoc) Project Appraisal provides a comprehensive and systematic review of all aspects of the project. After the preparation and design, it is being done for the development and successful completion of projects. To determine whether a project proposal is adopted or rejected, there should be appropriateness of project objectives, size, scope, implementation methods, modalities, time scale, and the project technical, financial, economic, institutional, environmental, social and distributional justification of the project. Thus, good appraisal systems should ensure that: project application, appraisal and approval functions are separate, all the necessary information is gathered for appraisal, Race/tribal equality and other equality issues are given proper consideration, those involved in appraisal have appropriate technical expertise and there are realistic allowances for time involved. Appraisal is an important decision making tool. Need, targeting and objectives. Context and connections, Consultation, Option, Inputs, Value for money, Implementation, and Risk Uncertainty are the key issues discussed in appraising one’s project. On the other hand, Project Selection is a process to assess each project idea and select the project with the highest priority. We do it when one has more ideas than the number of projects one can undertake and need to select the project that should be given priority. We do it because oftentimes, one will have a number of suggested projects but not enough resources, money or time to undertake all of the projects. So, if the organization in question has limited experience then it is recommended to concentrate on a small number of projects, ideally one project at a time, until the people in the organization have developed the skills and experience. One should do the easy projects first and, only then, work towards the most difficult and rewarding projects. One should use the easy projects to help answer questions/solve issues for the more difficult projects. Also, one should use the best opportunities to learn. Involving the Project Manager in the Project Selection process will help build ownership in the project and support a successful project in the long run. All the project selection processes and methods emphasized and described along the presentation are absolutely essential for an efficient business planning. It is always best to have a good plan from the inception, with a list of criteria to be considered and goals to be achieved. This will guide one through the entire selection process, and will also ensure that one does makes the right choice. 17. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION (reported by: Mrs. Kathyrine A. Placido) This is a very awakening topic for all of us. Yes, it is true, and I have realized – that a project, no matter how nice it is planned, if it cannot be implemented, is nothing at all because the highlight of every project and main reason why we planned is this – the implementation. Project Implementation is a process whereby â€Å"project inputs are converted to project outputs†. It may be looked at as: putting into action the activities of the project or putting into practice what was proposed in the project document (i.e. transforming the project proposal into the actual project.). In simplest term, it is the so – called Project Execution. Time taken to implement project activities is one measure of successfulness of supervision or monitoring of project implementation. Supervisor pays particular attention to time control measures, time scheduling and its supervision, time extension and postponement, damages for non-completion and defect or warranty period. Factors affecting project implementation are: Poor scheduling of projects leading to delays in implementation; Misallocation of funds; Delay and sometimes lack of counterpart funding; Lack of accountability and transparency; Bureaucracy in decision-making and Selfishness/ nepotism/ favoritism by some project managers. Thus, to better implement the project, a good project manager should: have working knowledge in several fields, be able to understand general managerial problems, have active interest in training and developing subordinates, and be able to delegate some tasks to subordinates. He should know the project and understand its objectives as well as the systematic process for managing projects. 18. PROJECT MONITORING AND MONITORING TOOLS (reported by: Mr. Rodelio D. Pantaleon) This is an unforgettable report that we have listened to in our class with Dr. Cirineo. Why?, because the reporter used a motivational activity before proceeding to the discussion of his topic. He classified us into 5 groups: The medicines, the nurses, the doctors, the patients, hospital and ambulance for the over-all. The rule of the game is that we have to rise and shout whenever we hear him say our group’s name. So along his story-telling, we did our part actively as he kept on mentioning our group’s name. In that case, he was able to monitor the success of the plan and in the end, was able to recognize the excellent team! As a reward, he gave a prize to the winners! In the discussion process, the project management cycle was again presented: the Plan, Do, Check and Act, together with the Triple Constraint which affects the quality of a product: the Scope, the Time and the Cost. He presented a GANTT CHART as an example of a monitoring tool. Why do we monitor? Simply because we know that things don’t always go according to plan (no matter how much we prepare). We have to detect and react appropriately to deviations and changes to plans. At the execution stage when the actual tasks of the project are in progress, it is vital to monitor information in order to keep track of what is being accomplished. The project manager can facilitate the project by communicating with team members and clients. Through hands-on monitoring, the team leader can make sure that individual participants stay with the original plan for the project and remain focused on predetermined goals. The project manager takes careful notes to follow all aspects of the project and address any problems that come up. Time management monitoring is executed by the project manager to make sure deadlines are being met as the project moves forward. Time sheets are used to monitor the time individual team members spend on tasks within the project. The team leader can identify and resolve any time management issues that arise. Projects can become disorganized and difficult to manage without some sort of monitoring and tracking of the progress. It is important to monitor the progress based on the goals for both timeliness and finished tasks. Budget and quality monitoring are included. If you don’t do it, you won’t know if you have succeeded. Without a well thought out Monitoring and Evaluation Plan project managers will not be able to tell whether the project has achieved its objectives. This significantly undermines the value of the project. and, as perception becomes reality, a project that cannot clearly demonstrate success will always be in danger of being seen as a failure. 19. COMPLETION AND ASSIMILATION (reported by: Ms. Marilyn B. Britanico) This is the phase that requires the highest level of coordination. The purpose of project completion is to assess the project, ensure completion, and derive any lessons. Project completion should be anticipated and planned as early as possible in the project lifecycle even though it is often the last major process of a project’s life. To avoid problems, project managers must plan for this stage of the integrated project cycle in a systematic way, with the goal of smooth and efficient handover of authority, assimilation. III. INSIGHTS: Planning helps us to have a better idea about the course of action that we propose to take. Planning better defines the course of action that we propose to undertake. Planning gives a rough estimate of the time required for a project. Planning gives us a fairly good idea about the expenses involved in the project. Planning helps us to get prepared for emergencies that may arise during the course of the project. A well thought about plan gives us a clear idea about what is to be done every day, every week and every month. Planning helps avoid duplication of labor. If a plan is followed, everyone will have a clear idea about his or her role. IV. IMPLICATIONS: Whatever be the plan, I want to stress the point that a plan should always be time bound. Plans should always be time bound and there we get the relation between time management and planning. In fact, planning is as fundamental to time management as organizing and prioritizing. We should have both short term plans as well as long term strategy plans. To ensure that the time schedule is being adhered to, the project activity time listing can be of great importance. At the same time we should also try to draft out contingency plans to deal with a crisis if it arises. As the project moves along, the plan should be flexible in the sense that it should incorporate any changes that might prove necessary once the project is put into action. View as multi-pages

Do you agree with Perkins' statement that the corporatocracy is in Essay

Do you agree with Perkins' statement that the corporatocracy is in fact an empire If so, why if not why not - Essay Example An empire can also be defined as supreme power or a jurisdiction of an entity or an organization. An example of an empire is the Roman Empire that rules from the Vatican City through the holy Catholic Church. Having defined the major terms, it is appropriate to find out whether corpocracy is an empire or not. Corporatocracy is, indeed, an empire. This is because an empire involves power and the rule of a collection of states. Corporations have today become so powerful due to their economic resources, and they influence the governance of many states all over the world. They do this through: exploiting economic control, influencing politics, determining the laws of the land, and manipulating policies of various governments. According to WorldiQ, corporations do this, for example, by owning and controlling main media outlets, and allowing access only to information that serves their interests, and influencing the enactment of laws that serve their wellbeing. For instance, in the United States, digital millennium copyright act was enacted due to pressure from corporations (WorldiQ). This was done to allow them to meet their self-centered goals and objectives. Power revolves around political, economic and social pillars, and control of these makes an empire. Corporations control these pillars, hence in charge of a conglomeration of states; corporatocracy is an

Effects of Slavery on Development of the South Essay

Effects of Slavery on Development of the South - Essay Example By the 18th century, America could not be seen as being a homogenous society. Clearly defined states could be identified that had different outlooks and different values. Which later was seen in the North versus South divide that created the two sides in the war. By April 1861, slavery had become entwined with state rights, the power of the federal government over the states and the South’s ‘way of life’. It made a significant contribution to the causes of the American Civil War.It later is seen in the North versus South divide that created the two sides.The South was an agricultural region where cotton and tobacco were the main backbone of the area’s economic strength which relied on free labor from the slaves. Slavery was seen as part of the southern way of life. Without slavery, the economic clout would have been severely dented. On the other hand, North was industrializing at a very fast rate. North’s economic development was based on entrepreneu rial skills and input of poorly paid workers who were not slaves. Due to this difference, both parts had different views of slavery. The southern side did not advocate for the release of the slaves as they relied on their labor for their economic backbone while northern side advocated for their release. These differences became the essential difference between north and south. Even after the liberation of slaves after the swearing in of Abraham Lincoln, the southern side was not viewed as a safe place for blacks as they were still considered as slaves.

Can Minnesota justify taking the grey wolf off the endangered species Research Paper

Can Minnesota justify taking the grey wolf off the endangered species list - Research Paper Example II. History and Current Status of Grey Wolf in Minnesota. a. Grey wolf is included in 1974 list of endangered Species. b. Grey wolf was on the brink of extinction in 1974. c. Grey wolf has surpassed Minnesota’s 1,400 maximum grey wolf population. III. Endangered Species. a. Minnesota wolf management program protects the grey wolves. b. Minnesota has set aside grey wolf conservation areas. IV. Prediction to the Future of the Grey Wolf in Minnesota. a. President Barack Obama signs the 2011 congress- approved law for the removal of the grey wolf from the endangered species list. b. Pro conservationist groups will sue the federal government. c. The grey fox population will decline to minimum levels. V. Endangered Species Act. a. The Endangered Species Act was signed into law by President Richard Nixon in 1973. b. The grey wolf was included in the endangered species list in 1974. VI. Conclusion a. Minnesota justifies the taking of the grey wolf off the endangered species. b. The re moval of the grey wolf from the endangered species list allows the hunters to hunt the grey wolves to extinction. c. The pro –wolf conservationist will sue the federal government using political action to a purely biological issue. d.

Leadership, A good leader Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Leadership, A good leader - Essay Example The history of leadership can be traced back to two phases of theories, the classic theories (before 1938) and the contemporary theories (after 1938). A leader plays a very important role in binding a team together and guiding them through the phases of problems and solving them, as well. A good leader is one, who can maintain his poise and dignity, level-headedness and expertise; and yet, be a part of the team and lead them. He possesses a clear vision and very often, discusses things out with his team mates. The article discusses these various theories that have emerged through the years, which all emphasize different leadership styles. "Superior leaders get things done with very little motion. They impart instruction not through many words, but through a few deeds. They keep informed about everything but interfere hardly at all. They are catalysts, and though things would not get done as well if they were not there, when they succeed they take no credit. And, because they take no credit, credit never leaves them," said Lao Tzu There exist numerous types of leaders---Autocratic, Bureaucratic, Participative, Laissez Faire and Paternalistic. Each of these kinds is distinctive and clear-cut in terms of its approach and the general perception. Autocratic leadership is characterised by close supervision, wherein the leader dons the most important role. The authoritarian gives clear and precise directions; and therefore assumes the top stop with authority. He or she offers no room for employee initiative or independent thoughts. There exists no room for discussions and sharing of ideas, since it is all one-sided. Employees do not participate in decision making and are more like obedient executioners of the plan of action imposed by the leader. In other words, the leader is the most important person, without whom the team crumbles into shambles. He or she becomes the be-all of the team and often is perceived as the face of the entire team. This is very often perceived as the least effective method of motivation, due to the non-participatory element in this form of leadership. The next form of leadership is the Bureaucratic form of leadership. This form of leadership focuses on the institution's rules and policies. It is more or less a statutory form of leadership, that follows theoretical principles with adherence. There exists an apprehension to take chances and management is done "by the book". There are no departures from the rules that are generally accepted. Attempts at creativity of thinking out of the box is something that is not synonymous with this kinds of leadership, more so because of the sheer dedication to rules and book material.

Budget Targeting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Budget Targeting - Essay Example Absent these inferences, firms would not know how well they are doing, and capital markets would not know how to value them. And absent these inferences, firms would be unable to improve their processes and, as a consequence, improve their economic performance". (Meyer, 2002, p. 24) Budget meeting its target as personal performance measure can be analysed in two broad categories: "First, a budget can be used as a financial plan, utilised by the finance department to ensure that the organisation stays within its operating constraints. Second it is much more widely used in most organisations as a tool of overall management control. Here budget targets are set for individual responsibility centers and their operating managers, so that operating performance can be monitored and controlled". (Neely, Business Performance Measurement) Irrespective of any category, effective budget targets must possess the following characteristics: "Strong incentives for departments and their partners in service delivery to plan over several years and plan together where appropriate so as to deliver better public services with greater cost effectiveness". (Budget-2006) "Data collection and analysis for performance measures are defined to establish a common understanding for the measure, to describe how and when the data will be collected and interpreted, and to ensure the quality and integrity of the data". (Budget-2006a) Performance measures further include the following steps: "Analysis of existing systems (like accounting and auditing) should be conducted in order to determine its performance-basis, if one expects performance data to be used in the system this means that systems that relate to other outdated budgeting approaches need to be replaced to accommodate performance based budgeting". (Andrews & Hill, 2003, p. 135) "The use of performance information

Security and democracy. Can you have both Hows does popular culture Research Paper

Security and democracy. Can you have both Hows does popular culture and Star Wars tell us that you cannot - Research Paper Example However, we have countless cases around the world whereby democratic countries tend to be unstable, beset by cycles of conflicts while those that are led by despots seems to be enjoying relative peace. For instance, drug lords are virtually taking over some Southern American countries such as Guatemala and Mexico, making parts of those countries insecure even though free elections, a key demand for democracy, are held regularly. Clearly, the democratic governments in most of these countries have failed to enhance security in their states. On the other hand, countries lambasted for having failed the democratic test such as Cuba and swathes of nations in the Arab world, never known to hold elections to choose leaders, are relatively calm with very low levels of crime. Different stories and experiences of popular culture, with the backup from various academic and non academic sources will be analyzed to determine whether it is possible for a country to have stability and democracy at the same time. Democracy will undoubtedly cause tensions as the minorities cry foul over lack of opportunities. These tensions can be a major source of instability. Is it therefore possible to have both stability and democracy if the minorities are unhappy? Popular culture can be broadly defined as the aggregate of cultural products such as music, art, literature, fashion, dance, television and film that is primarily consumed by the non-elite portion of the society (Crossman; Osborn 3). Non-elitist group of the society are mainly the downtrodden or the masses that does not control both the political as well as the economic power. These are the laborers, the middle class and the lower class of the society. According to Crossman, popular culture can be viewed from two dimensions. First, popular culture is a tool used by the elites to control the masses. This is because the elites tend to control media outlets and the culture itself. For

Success Quotes Essay Example for Free

Success Quotes Essay The person who gets the farthest is generally the one who is willing to do and dare. The sure-thing boat never gets far from shore. -Dale Carnegie 1. Most successful men have not achieved their distinction by having some new talent or opportunity presented to them. They have developed the opportunity that was at hand. Bruce Barton 2. Would you like me to give you a formula for success? Its quite simple, really. Double your rate of failure. You are thinking of failure as the enemy of success. But it isnt at all. You can be discouraged by failure or you can learn from it, So go ahead and make mistakes. Make all you can. Because remember that? s where you will find success. Thomas J. Watson 3. The successful always has a number of projects planned, to which he looks forward. Anyone of them could change the course of his life overnight. -Mark Caine 4. There are three ingredients in the good life: learning, earning and yearning. Christopher Morley 5. There are three ingredients in the good life: learning, earning and yearning. 6. When a man feels throbbing within him the power to do what he undertakes as well as it can possibly be done, this is happiness, this is success. Orison Swett Marden 7. Pity the man who inherits a million and isnt a millionaire. Heres what would be pitiful,if your income grew and you didnt. The great successful men of the world have used their imagination? they think ahead and create their mental picture in all its details, filling in here, adding a little there, altering this a bit and that a bit, but steadily building steadily building. Robert Collier 8. Success doesnt come to you? you go to it. Marva Collins 9. The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will. Vincent T. Lombardi

Value of Common Sense Essay Example for Free

Value of Common Sense Essay Common sense, a mere adaptation on ones way of thinking and acting. It is described as the knowledge and judgment that most people already have or should have. Many people generalise certain acts as an inconsideration for common sense. In my short period of existence, I can certainly say that the practice of this concept can only be perceived as anything but common, more like rare or occasional. Common sense has no form of value that would allow it to contribute to your qualifications or even towards your online dating profile. One thing is certain, it has a long term effect on your quality of life and the safety of those around you. The lack of common sense should be considered a disease which i even suffer from at times. One of the symptoms I usually experience is excruciating pain. Let’s just say I was very sick, this past holidays. I went ice skating with friends and family and it wasn’t my first time. Once we had our skates on, we wandered like a group of penguins until we reached the ice. So we skated around and around which seemed like a continuous, unbroken cycle until i decided to do something unexpected. I glared down at my boot and noticed that a strap had come loose. I should mention that I was still moving and pretty fast too. leaned over and tried to clip it in place, a mission nobody else would pursue and i soon found out why. As i had fastened the strap, I felt my legs wobble uncontrollably. Before I knew it, I was swimming on ice. What i learned from that experience is that you should never grab a person as an attempt to pull yourself up from the ice. it will only become worse. If u dislike embarrassment and feelings of regret, the way I do. Then you should be able to detect the value of common sense as depicted in this story. Not all scenarios measure common sense with the same amount of importance. The outcome differs and in the next story, it has quite a lot of weight and consequences. I was with my uncle at a harbor, where we went to buy fish. We met this one guy who had a small stall and was selling fresh fish, he had just caught. We bought a few and thought that we should conversate to pass the time. The fisherman told us about himself and his job out on sea. I noticed that he had quite a large number of fish on sale. I then asked him how long it took him to catch them. He replied, ’oh, not too long, just a few hours†. While in amazement, my uncle said,’ why don’t you stay out longer, that way you can catch more fish? The fisherman explained that what he had caught was sufficient enough to support his family because he dedicated his existence to them. He said that he spent the rest of his time with his wife, children and friends. My uncle reflected before saying, â€Å"here’s what you should do, stay out longer so that you can catch more fish. Then you can sell the extra fish and use that money towards buying a bigger boat. Thereafter, you would three, even four boats until you possess a small fleet. Employ some workers and sell to larger businesses. The fisherman was stunned and mumbled out, â€Å"what about my family? I jumped in and said that they would have a better life, filled with opportunity and realistic dreams. We walked away in silence, leaving the man to contemplate deeply into the distance. In this story, the wealth in ones life, happiness of a family and self-accomplishment rest on common sense. Education brings about maturity and sophistication, but does not enforce your ability to display common sense. It is seen as a gift from birth which brings about simplicity and ease rather than unnecessary complication and discomfort. so just remember, if you do something stupid, you probably didn’t use your common sense.

Dominant Theories Of Neorealism And Neoliberal Institutionalism Politics Essay

Dominant Theories Of Neorealism And Neoliberal Institutionalism Politics Essay 1. While neorealism and neoliberal institutionalism are now considered the dominant theories in international relations, neorealism can be viewed as the more dominant of the two because it more accurately portrays state behavior from a positivist standpoint. Unlike neoliberalism which can only adequately explain the economic relations of nations, neorealism is able to explain how states react to one another in terms of security affairs. Quite empirically, neorealism argues that states only act in its own interest vis a vis the material structural incentives of the international system (Griffiths, OCallaghan and Roach 282). How states behave is reflected upon how they are also positioned in a hierarchy within the international system. In the end, states will behave in a manner that allows them to improve, or at the very least, maintain their positions in the hierarchy. The more powerful states are likely to be more influential in deciding the fate of global affairs while the weaker st ates will have relatively less say on matters of international import. Therefore, among neorealists, how the international system is divided is dependent on how the capabilities of states are distributed. The international system is essentially a system of anarchy. States pursue maximum utility in order to achieve their interests. From the neorealists point of view, states need the same things but are not equally capable of meeting their needs. For instance, states in the North American continent are relatively well-positioned economically than states in Africa. A consequence of the disparate capabilities between the states from both regions is that their cooperation is limited since partnerships will end up either in dependence or exploitation. On another note, the more affluent states engage in cooperation and competition to maximize relative gains and power. This desire and the ability to maximize power on the part of states results in what is called balance of power. Neorealists believe that the unequal positions of states in the international system gives rise to a security dilemma where states struggle to balance power either by 1) building more powerful armies and increasing mi litary spending, and 2) forging regional alliances or diplomatic ties with other states to check more powerful nations. Neorealists are able to characterize the distribution of power in the international system based on capabilities of nations: unipolar (a singular power), bipolar (two great powers), and multipolar (more than two powers). The establishment of European Union, for instance, is an attempt to balance power and promote a multipolar world in a present unipolar system ruled by the United States of America. On the other hand, neoliberal institutionalism uses positivism to explain why states cooperate and why they do not cooperate with each other. Using game theory as its method of analysis, neoliberal institutionalists explain that behavior of states depends on their analysis of gains and losses. States are interested in cooperating only with states and institutions that can deliver mutual gains and profitable arrangements. Neoliberalism responds to the neorealist conception of the international system as anarchic. While it does not contest or deny this, neoliberalism purports that this is exaggeration. Neoliberals contend that states do not compete all the time and that cooperative behavior among states is possible if the international system is decentralized. Leaning on the classic liberal view of the state as a rational and self-interested actor, states, when allowed to compete fairly in a decentralized environment, are able to maximize their relative gains in power and resources. 2. Neoliberalism and neorealism are considered modern interpretations of the classic positivist theories on international relations. While different in some conceptions of state behavior, both theories are complementary and mutually enforcing. They more alike than different; both theories are rooted in the explanation of international relations using the state as primary unit of analysis. They cannot be considered alternative theories to international relations, merely, a modern version of the traditional positivist view of IR. In some ways, neorealism and neoliberalism contradict but they are essentially mutually reinforcing interpretations of international relations. Both recognize anarchy in IR but at different extents. The neorealist believes that the global system is anarchic by nature and that the main preoccupation of states is how to ensure their survival. Thus, whatever alliances and cooperation is forged among nations is hinged upon the need to survive. Other states, like North Korea, rely on their own processes of survival, even violating international law to ensure that it is not crushed by the more powerful states. Its concept of balance of power requires it to develop its own nuclear problem to deter threat. If states do not recognize anarchy, they will be weakened. From a neorealist perspective, international cooperation is illusory, if not outright impossible to achieve. Neoliberal institutionalism recognizes that there is anarchy but there are creative ways to go about it, such as the building of regimes or institutions to mitigate anarchy. Neoliberals value the existence of international institutions such as the World Trade Organization, the United Nations, and other international regimes that ensure mutually beneficial relations among nations. The WTO for instance, sets norms and rules for global trade. The UN acts as an arbiter of international conflict. 3. Marxism remains of the most relevant theories that provide alternative explanations to international relations. First of all, departing from the traditional realist and liberal view of the state as the fundamental unit of analysis, Marxism treats class as the unit of analysis. Marxism argues that the international system was established to protect the property interests of the upper classes and the most affluent states. Hence, the struggle in the international system is essentially a class struggle between rich and powerful nations and the exploited nations. Variants of Marxist theory of international relations include the world-systems theory, dependency theory, and neo-Marxism. Marxism divides the world not into political entities but economic classes. Using its analysis of the base and superstructure, Marxism contends that economics supersedes politics in the global order. International relations was developed by the capitalist class to ensure capital accumulation of wealthy corporations and affluent states. The world-systems theory developed by Wallersten argues that the world can be divided into economic classes: 1) First World represents the most affluent or the core, and 2) Third World represents the poorest and underdeveloped or the periphery. According to the world-systems theory, only the core countries are able to benefit from international relations because they own the means of production while the periphery countries are exploited. The dependency theory which grew popular in Latin America propose that the poor countries (classes) are transformed into mere source of cheap labor and raw materials, hence, keeping them utterly dependent on affluent nations. International institutions such as the WTO are said to perpetuate this inequality. To resist this unequal relations, Marxists argue for protectionism and economic control policies that will liberate them from the control of the global economic regime, including import substitution to replace export-based economic models. Work Cited Griffiths, Martin, OCallaghan, Terry, and Steven Roach. International relations: the key concepts. 2nd ed. New York: Routledge, 2002.

World Today :: essays papers

World Today The world today, more than ever, is a steadly shrinking planet, as new technology allows us to cross boundaries and attempt feats that were once only dreams of science fiction novelists. Yet, even as progress roots out old ways of life, and new technology makes obsolete time honored traditions, we never lose sight of the rich cultures to which our earth is home. Even today, the world is still a colorful and vibrant place, filled with a myriad of exotic cultures, each with its own unique and enthralling history and traditions. It is this increasing charm and fascination with the ancient that invariably draws the curiosity of outsiders. This fact has even permeated itself throughout my life. No matter where I go and wherever I end up, there is always some measure of curiosity concerning the other hemisphere of the world. Before and especially following any significant trip, I repeatedly face the same line of inquiry, â€Å"What is the Middle East like?†. To this question I have often respond with a casual and simple answer, â€Å"It’s okay†. Upon my return from the Middle East this past summer however, I began to feel this response horriblyinsufficient, and I decided to contemplate a more meaningful answer. I quickly came across amental block as I started thinking to myself, how could I ever possibly convey the sights, the sounds and the feelings of this region, so vibrant and culturally rich, to anyone who has not had the fortune to see it for themselves? Despite these difficulties, I began to draft my thoughts. In an attempt to bring in perspective the rich and inspiring heritage of the region, I progressively began to picture my most recent vacation to Arabia, and letting my memories take charge, I began describing to the best of my ability t he highlights of my trip. Dawn crept up sluggishly the day I arrived in Saudi Arabia after my twenty-eight hour flight. After fighting, unsuccessfuly, for a few hours of some much needed sleep, I was just about to drift into doze off when the nearby mu’athin announced the dawn prayer, calling all faithful Muslims to their morning religious duty. Trying to turn over and sleep after an exhausting trip, I found my efforts compromised by the piercing bright desert sun that now edged over the horizon. Rousing myself from bed, I readied myself for the coming day, planing and imagining what each successive day would bring. Reintroducing myself to familiar sights, I noticed the same young boys from so

Cloning, Ethics, and What Lies Ahead :: Science GeneticsTechnology Essays

Cloning, Ethics, and What Lies Ahead â€Å"If clones copy off each other in school, is this considered cheating?†(Milgram 76). These types of questions are now asked in the present day due to today’s ever advancing technology. In recent years, mankind has made technological breakthroughs in every aspect. From the new super information highway that has metamorphosed and expanded the definition of communication, to the ability of creating fully identical animals in nature, these advancements have both introduced positive and negative effects. Some question the purpose of these discoveries while others adamantly continue to drive towards extending the boundaries of knowledge. Biotechnology has evolved to a point in time giving mankind the ability to create an identical creature using only some lab instruments. Moreover some envision soon that scientists will have the capacity to replicate a human being, genetically identical to another, using the information already gained from genetic research in lab a nimals, but one must ask, â€Å"What purpose will this serve and how will it benefit mankind?†. The knowledge that scientists have gained in animal cloning must solely be used to further advance the field of health and medicine for the betterment of humankind. In no way can these findings be used to research the cloning of humans for this poses a great threat to humanity. It is critical to first understand the basics behind cloning and what it exactly is before one is able to make any decisions regarding this controversial subject matter. Cloning involves replicating the genetic material from another animal to create a physically and biologically identical clone. When organisms are replicated, the result is a genetically identical copy of the original organism. Within the last decade, scientists from PPL Therapeutics were able to clone the famous sheep, Dolly, who ignited the flame for the many controversial issues to follow. She was specifically â€Å"formed by a nuclear transplantation of a parental nucleus into a donor egg; she inherited the DNA outside of her nucleus from the donor’s egg†(MilGram 5). The scientists removed all genetic material from the egg and then injected the nucleic material from the donor into the egg. After doing so successfully, they harvested this egg in the uterus of a lamb and the rest is history (Kola ta 12). There are a couple of misconceptions that first must be cleared. Cloning, Ethics, and What Lies Ahead :: Science GeneticsTechnology Essays Cloning, Ethics, and What Lies Ahead â€Å"If clones copy off each other in school, is this considered cheating?†(Milgram 76). These types of questions are now asked in the present day due to today’s ever advancing technology. In recent years, mankind has made technological breakthroughs in every aspect. From the new super information highway that has metamorphosed and expanded the definition of communication, to the ability of creating fully identical animals in nature, these advancements have both introduced positive and negative effects. Some question the purpose of these discoveries while others adamantly continue to drive towards extending the boundaries of knowledge. Biotechnology has evolved to a point in time giving mankind the ability to create an identical creature using only some lab instruments. Moreover some envision soon that scientists will have the capacity to replicate a human being, genetically identical to another, using the information already gained from genetic research in lab a nimals, but one must ask, â€Å"What purpose will this serve and how will it benefit mankind?†. The knowledge that scientists have gained in animal cloning must solely be used to further advance the field of health and medicine for the betterment of humankind. In no way can these findings be used to research the cloning of humans for this poses a great threat to humanity. It is critical to first understand the basics behind cloning and what it exactly is before one is able to make any decisions regarding this controversial subject matter. Cloning involves replicating the genetic material from another animal to create a physically and biologically identical clone. When organisms are replicated, the result is a genetically identical copy of the original organism. Within the last decade, scientists from PPL Therapeutics were able to clone the famous sheep, Dolly, who ignited the flame for the many controversial issues to follow. She was specifically â€Å"formed by a nuclear transplantation of a parental nucleus into a donor egg; she inherited the DNA outside of her nucleus from the donor’s egg†(MilGram 5). The scientists removed all genetic material from the egg and then injected the nucleic material from the donor into the egg. After doing so successfully, they harvested this egg in the uterus of a lamb and the rest is history (Kola ta 12). There are a couple of misconceptions that first must be cleared.

Personal Sacrifices for Career Success

A great career often means that you have to sacrifice. There is always a give and take that you have to go through in order to get to where you want to go. Whether you have to work with someone you don't like because they can get you a connection, or doing a Job you don't like because you will one day get promoted to something you do, a good career requires give and take. Say the boss asks you to work on a Saturday. Why would you do It? Why would you give up a day where you could sleep In, go see a movie In the afternoon and then go out at night?You do it because working on Saturday will Impress people. It will show that you have a team first attitude that you will come In when needed to help the company. You might not enjoy working with people you don't know all day. This especially holds true for those who don't have great hygiene or respect personal space. Why do you put up with them? Why not just tell them they smell bad and get it over with? You shut your mouth because you have to be a professional, and you have to get along in order to get ahead. Professional sacrifice is also why you don't yell and scream at people who don't do a DOD job.You don't want others to feel bad, but you don't want to look like you are short tempered. This doesn't help anyone, and you can get in trouble for it. Even If you are saying what others are thinking, it still requires you to restrain yourself and stay quiet. The betterment of your career is why you show up five minutes early to work. It's why you go to Buffalo for a job when you have been living in San Diego your whole life. No one wants to go across the country when it is much easier to stay where you are happy. No one wants to get to work early when we all know that work isn't fun.

The Ideal And The Realty Of Classical Athens

The Ideal and the Realty of Classical Athens Discovering the Western Past Introduction: Athens during the fifth century B. C. Is often identified as one of the main sources of Western values and standards. Later Europeans and Americans regarded the Athenians as the originators of democracy, drama, representational or realistic art, history, philosophy, and science. At different times over the past 2,500 years they have attempted to imitate this â€Å"Golden Age† of classical Athens in everything from buildings to literature.Many U. S. State capitols and government buildings are modeled On the Parthenon or there temples, complete with statuary of former governors in the manner of Greek gods. We still divide, drama into tragedies and comedies in the same way the Athenians did, though now we sometimes use a prerecorded laugh track instead of grinning masks to indicate that a given work is a comedy.During some historical periods, such as the Renaissance, thinkers and writers made conscious attempts to return to classical ideals in all areas of life, combing the works of Athenian authors for previously overlooked material in their quest to draw guidance and learn everything possible from this unique flowering of culture. Even more than as a model for literature and art, classical Athens has continued to serve as a relevant source for answers to basic questions about human existence.Though all cultures have sought to identify the ultimate aim and meaning of human life, the ancient Greeks, especially the Athenians, were the first in the West to provide answers that were not expressed in religious or mythological terms. Their thoughts on these matters grew out of speculations on the nature of the universe made by earlier Greeks, particularly Thales and. His followers Misbranded and Heraclites. These thinkers, living in the seventh and sixth centuries B. C. Theorized about how the universe had been formed and what it was made of by means of rational explanations drawn from observation rather than from myth or religious tradition. Because they believed the natural universe could, be explained, in other than supernatural terms, they are often termed the first true scientists or first philosophers. During the fifth century B. C. , several Athenian thinkers turned their attention from the world around, them to the human beings living in that world. They used this new method of philosophical inquiry to question the workings Of the human mind and the societies humans create.They asked such questions as. How do we learn things? What should we try to learn? How do we know what is right or wrong, good or bad? If we can know what is good, how can we create things that are good? What kind of government is best? This type of questioning is perhaps most often associated with Socrates (469-390 B. C. ) and his pupil Plato (427-347 B. C. ), who are generally called, the founders of Western philosophy. Thales and his followers are thus known as the pre- Soc ratic; and a twentieth-century philosopher, Alfred North Whitehead, noted-?only half jokingly-?that â€Å"the European philosophical tradition .. Insists of a series of footnotes to Plato. † Both Socrates and Plato believed that goodness is related to knowledge and that excellence could be learned. For Plato especially, true knowledge was gained not by observation of the world but by contemplation of what an ideal world would be like. In their view, to understand goodness, justice, or beauty, it is necessary to think about what pure and ultimate goodness, justice, or beauty means. Plato thus introduced into Western thought a strong strain of idealism and was the first to write works on what an ideal society or set of laws would look like.He also described the education required to train citizens for governing this Ideal state and the social and economic structure necessary to keep them at their posts. Though he probably recognized that these standards could never be achieved, he believed that the creation of ideals was an important component of the discipline of philosophy, a sentiment shared by many Western thinkers after him. Plat's most brilliant pupil, Aristotle (384-322 B. C. ), originally agreed with his teacher but then began to depart somewhat from idealism.Like the pre- Socratic, Aristotle was fascinated by the world around him, and many of his ratings on scientific subjects reveal keen powers of observation. Even his treatises on standards of human behavior, such as those concerning ethics and politics, are based on close observation of Athenian society and not simply on speculation. Aristotle further intended that these works should not only describe ideal human behavior or political systems, but also provide suggestions about how to alter current practice to conform more closely to the ideal.Thus, although Aristotle was still to some degree an idealist, both the source and the recipient of his ideals was the real world. In classical Athens, human nature was a subject contemplated not only by scientists and philosophers, but also by historians, such as Herodotus and Discusses. They, too, searched for explanations about the natural order that did not involve the gods. For Herodotus and Discusses, the Persian and Peloponnesus wars were caused by human failings, not by actions of vengeful gods such as those that Homer, following tradition, depicted in the Iliad as causing the Trojan War.Like Aristotle, they were interested in describing real events and finding explanations for them; like Plato, they were also interested in the possible as well as the actual. History, in their opinion, was the best arena for observing the true worth of various ideals to human society. To the Athenians, war was the ultimate test of human ideals, morals, and values, but these could also be tested and observed on a much smaller scale in the way people conducted their everyday lives.Although for Plato the basis of an ideal government was the pe rfectly trained ruler or group of rulers, for Aristotle and other writers it was the perfectly managed household, which they regarded as a microcosm of society. Observing that the household was the smallest economic and political unit in Athenian society, Aristotle began his consideration of the ideal governmental system with thoughts on how households should be run. Other writers on politics and economics followed suit, giving advice after observing households they regarded as particularly well managed.Whereas Plato clearly indicated that he was describing an ideal, in the case Of Aristotle and other Athenians, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether they were attempting to describe reality, what they wished were reality, or a pure ideal. Your task here will be to examine the relationship between ideal and reality in the writings of a few Athenian philosophers, historians, and commentators. What ideals do the writers set forth for the individual, the household, and the gover nment?How are these ideals reflected in more realistic descriptions of life in Athens and in the way Athenians built their houses and their city? Sources: All the written sources we will use come from Athenians who lived during the classical period and are thus what we term original or primary sources. They differ greatly from modern primal sources, however, in that their textual accuracy cannot be checked. Before the development of the printing press, the only way to obtain a copy of a work was to write it out by hand yourself or hire someone to do so.Therefore, each manuscript copy might be slightly different. Because the originals of the works of Aristotle or Discusses have long since disappeared, what we have to work with are translations of composites based on as many of the oldest copies still in existence after 2,500 years that the translators could find. The problem of accuracy is further complicated with some of the authors we will read because they did not actually write t he works attributed to them. Many of Aristotle works, for instance, are probably copies of his students' notes combined with (perhaps) some of his own.If you think of the way in which you record your own instructors' remarks, you can see why we must be cautious about assuming that these secondhand works contain everything Aristotle taught exactly as he intended it. Socrates, in fact, wrote nothing at all; all his ideas and words come to us through his pupil Plato. Scholars have long debated how much of the written record represents Socrates and how much represents Plato, especially when we consider that Socrates generally poke at social gatherings or informally while walking around Athens, when Plato was not taking notes.These problems do not mean that we should discount these sources, they simply mean that we should realize that they differ from the printed documents and tape-recorded speeches of later eras. We will begin our investigation with what is probably the most famous desc ription of classical Athens [Source 1]: a funeral speech delivered by Prices. Prices, one of the leaders of Athens when the Peloponnesus War opened, gave this speech in 430 B. C. In honor of those who had died during the first year of the war. It was recorded by Discusses and, though there is some disagreement over who actually Wrote it, reflects Prices' opinions.Read the speech carefully and be prepared to answer the following questions: (1) Is Prices describing an ideal he hopes Athens will achieve or reality as he sees it? (2) How does he depict Athenian democracy and the Athenian attitude toward wealth? (3) How does he compare Athens with Sparta? (4) How does Athens treat its neighbors? (5) What role does Prices see for Athena Ian women? Source 2 comes from a later section of Discusses' Peloponnesus War, and it ascribes Athenian actions in the sixteenth year of the war. As you read It, think about the virtues that Prices ascribed to the Athenians. 1 ) Are these virtues reflected in the debate with the Menials or in the actions against them? (2) How do the Athenians justify their actions? Sources 1 and 2 from Discusses, History of the Peloponnesus War, translated by Richard Crawler (New York; Modern Library, 1951) up. 103-106; p. 109. 1. Prices' Funeral Speech, 430 B. C. That part of our history which tells of the military achievements which gave us our several possessions, or of the ready valor with which either we or our ethers stemmed the tide of Hellenic or foreign aggression, is a theme too familiar to my hearers for me to dilate on, and I shall therefore pass it by.But what was the road by which we reached our position, what the form Of government under which our greatness grew, what the national habits out of which it sprang; these are questions which I may try to solve before I proceed to my panegyric (festival assembly) upon these men: since I think this to be a subject upon which on the present occasion a speaker may properly dwell, and to which t he whole assemblage, whether citizens or foreigners, may listen with advantage. Our constitution does not copy the laws of neighboring states; we are rather a pattern to others than imitators ourselves.Its administration favors the many instead of the few; this is why it is' called, a democracy. If we look to the laws, they afford equal justice to all in their private differences; if to social standing, advancement in public life falls to reputation for capacity, class considerations not being allowed to interfere with merit; nor again does poverty bar the way, if a man is able to serve the state, he is not hindered by the obscurity of his condition. The freedom, which we enjoy in our overspent, extends also to our ordinary life.There, far from exercising a jealous surveillance over each other, we do not feel called upon to be angry with our neighbor for doing what he likes, or even to indulge in those injurious looks which cannot fail to be Offensive, although they inflict no posit ive penalty. But all this ease in our private relations does not make us lawless as citizens. Against this fear is our chief safeguard, teaching us to obey the magistrates and the laws, particularly such as regard the protection of the injured, whether they are actually on the statute book, or belong to hat code which, although unwritten, yet cannot be broken without acknowledged disgrace.Further, we provide plenty of means for the mind to refresh itself from business. We celebrate games and sacrifices all the year round, and the elegance of our private establishments forms a daily source of pleasure and helps to banish the spleen; while the magnitude of our city draws the produce of the world into our harbor, so that to the Athenian the fruits of other countries are as familiar a luxury as those of his own. If we turn to our military policy, there also we differ from our antagonists.We throw open our tit to the world, and never by alien acts exclude foreigners from any opportunity of learning or observing, although the eyes of an enemy may occasionally profit by our liberality: trusting less in system and policy than to the native spirit of our citizens; while in education, where our rivals from their very cradles by a painful discipline seek after manliness,

Yes We Can

Greg Oberschelp CAS 137 1 PM Dr. Freymiller â€Å"Yes We Can† The word rhetoric is widely thrown around by many different people in today’s age. Many people don’t understand the real context of the word, but that does not mean it is not any less common. Rhetoric is all around us, whether it is on television, in a paper, or, just in an advertisement. For most people, rhetoric is most widely seen during election season, especially during the Presidential election. Candidates rely heavily on rhetoric to get their ideas out there, showcase their list of credentials, and really paint themselves as the next President of the United States.For most campaigners, the most effective way to do this is through simple advertisements, basically flyers. Barrack Obama was exceptional at using these small advertisements to his advantage during the 2008 election. In taking a look at one of his 2008 â€Å"Yes We Can† ads, one can analyze the ethos, pathos, logos, and audience of the piece and its effectiveness in using rhetoric. In this political ad, Barrack Obama uses his patented pathos to further his campaign. For President Obama, pathos or emotional appeal has been his bread and butter for his political ads, and this poster is no different.The pathos conveyed here speaks to the entire nation, with the simple words â€Å"yes we can. † On the surface, â€Å"yes we can† seems to say that we, as the people of the United States, can elect Mr. Obama over his opposition. It goes much deeper then that though, as the message varies depending on the person reading it. For one, it speaks to the people that they can make history and elect the first African American president. This appeals to a section of Americans, (mainly African Americans) who can make the once pipedream of having one of their own as the commander-in-chief a true reality.To the average reader though, â€Å"Yes we can† also symbolizes the rough times America had been in an d how the country was not run effectively as it could’ve been. The economy was in a recession, the house and senate were deadlocked, and nothing proactive was being done to change it. Mr. Obama, along with the help of voters, could get the United States out of the difficult times and successfully turn the country around. â€Å"Yes we can† improve the outlook for our country and help make a better future for families and ourselves by electing Mr. Obama. Lastly, â€Å"Yes we can† symbolizes hope. This speaks to all readers of the ad.Hope in our great country that we can elect someone to bring America back. Hope that our President can finally be an African American and break the color barrier in the country. Hope that a better future lies ahead for the United States under President Obama. â€Å"Yes we can† starts with the American people. We can do all of these things; it all starts with the election of Barrack Obama (in January of 2008). The ethos in the po litical ad is greatly conveyed and shines Mr. Obama in an extremely positive light. Starting with the visual aspect of the ad, it portrays the President in a serious tone.He looks as if he is pondering what can be done, as his head is arched slightly up towards the sky. He is thinking, the outline of his face is in red, white, and blue, which we all know are the colors of the United States. This, coupled with his serious expression, makes the ethos or credibility of the ad very clear. It displays Mr. Obama as a thinker, someone who will go outside the box to fix the problems of the country. He seems to be in a position of great knowledge, since a great stream of confidence is drawn across his face. People are drawn to this, as one would quickly look at the ad and instantly associate Mr.Obama with credibility. Even without knowing his long list of credentials, (his graduation from Columbia University and Harvard Law School, past as a civil rights attorney, and Illinois state senator) people can clearly see that he is being displayed as a qualified leader. With this association of qualification, people then associate his credentials with trustworthiness. In this ad, Mr. Obama seems like someone that this nation could trust to lead the American people back to the country’s former glory. The ethos of this ad makes the reader buy into Mr. Obama as a qualified, trustworthy leader.One who will be the next President of the United States. The message in this ad is clear. Yes, we can. The simple campaign ad uses a very logical argument. The main message is stated, â€Å"yes we can†. We, the people of the United States, can elect Barrack Obama. The minor premise is also easily drawn from the message, Barrack Obama is a better fit for the country then what the we had. The conclusion ties all of these ideas together in that under Barrack Obama, America will see a great change as country and the people will be much better off in voting for him. Very effective idea in the implicity of the message, a vote equals an election. An election will in turn equal a great for the country, and a good fit will lead to a better future for the people. As previously stated, simplicity is key to this logical argument. This poster/flyer was seen by millions of people, but only for a short period of time. It was a passing glance, something that people saw as they walked by, usually with other things going on in their heads. This ad had to standout to get the minds of readers jolted and provide the layout for which the readers could effectively draw a conclusion from the ad.Obama’s portrait, the colors of the American flag, and the simple message, are all effectively connected to the main idea. Elect Barrack Obama for the President of the United States, we can do it. He is the â€Å"best† fit for the country and will lead the country into a new, better dawn. Finally, the last proof of the ad is in the audience. The audience is a certain group of people, a demographic that the ad is targeting. In breaking down the ad’s intended targets, it starts with the American people.First and foremost, the people of the United States are the ones that directly choose their next leader. The red, white, and blue colors of the President in the portrait help to strongly display that message. The colors obviously represent the great nation and in turn can be attributed to the great people who make it up. As the message becomes analyzed in more depth, the American people are broken down into smaller groups. The next target group in my eyes is the people of the Democratic Party. Next are the majority of African Americans, and finally the people who consider themselves progressive.These groups are all targeted in the tagline of the ad â€Å"Yes we can† and fall under the general category America people. Like before, the Democratic Party can gain the control of the country once again with President Obama’s initial electio n. They could put their ideas on how to run the country into action, further the ideals of the party. For the African Americans, they can finally elect one of their own to give themselves a majority voice of the minority in the US. Their fortunes can be reversed, as they, along with the rest of the American public, can better their lives and shape their bright futures.Lastly, the tagline targets progressives. These are the people who don’t side with a party in the election, the vote with who will push the US into the proverbial â€Å"new frontier†. To them, they can change history, vote for an African American for the first time ever as the President. They can politically, socially, and economically progress their great nation to put it on the forefront of progress in the world. Progressives, African Americans, Democrats can pull together as the American people and change the whole the future course of their homeland.In this advertisement, ethos, pathos, logos were all effectively used by Barrack Obama’s 2008 campaign. Being one of the more rhetorical presidents of our time, this should come as no surprise. He was able to spark emotion, display his credibility, and make himself the logical choice for the presidency all in a simple ad. The â€Å"Yes We Can† ad meticulously targeted certain groups while still appealing to all American people and voters. The vast, far-reaching audience propelled Mr. Obama to victory and he has his campaign to thank for the support of the people. â€Å"Yes We Can†, yes they can, and yes we did.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was drafted in 1948 and one of the articles, article XXVI deals with protection of the fundamental rights, right to education: (1) Everyone has the right to education. Education shall be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory. Technical and professional education shall be made generally available and higher education shall be equally accessible to all on the basis of merit. (2) Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups, and shall further the activities of the United Nations for the maintenance of peace. (3) Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children. The right to education is a universal right and is recognized as a hum an right. It includes the right to free, non biased and non political primary education for everyone, to make secondary education at least accessible to everyone and make access to higher education.The right to education also provides the obligation to avoid discrimination at all educational levels and to improve quality of education. Furthermore, the European Court of Human Rights defined „education as teaching or instructions in particular to the transmission of knowledge and to intellectual development† and in a wider sense as â€Å"the whole process whereby, in any society, adults endeavor to transmit their beliefs, culture and other values to the young. â€Å" The rights to educations have been separated into three levels.Primary also known as elemental or fundamental education must be compulsory and free for any young person. It must not be discriminatory on nationality, gender, sexuality, etc. All countries ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Socia l and Cultural Rights States must provide free primary education within two years. Secondary education must be available and accessible to anyone regardless of nationality, gender, or sexuality. It can be free or not, and it can be compulsory, but it does not have to be.In some countries, even though minority, secondary education is compulsory, for example in Denmark, Croatia, Finland, etc. Higher education at the University level must be accessible to persons who meet necessary education standards to be able to go to universities. Higher education does not falls under the provision of free education. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) proclaims that: „Everyone has the right to educationâ€Å", the question is to what kind of education or who should provide it?The fact is that UDHR was drawn up in 1948 when only a minority of young people in the world had access to any type of education, however, today we can say that situation is much better, showing that four out of five adults worldwide have some literacy skills. The purpose of the UDHR's article XXVI is not just having quantative aspect, but also qualitative. The UDHR's article XXVI has certain provisions that must be fulfilled in order to have qualitative education, such provisions are: „Education shall be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stagesâ€Å"and „Elementary education shall be compulsoryâ€Å".Today educational opportunities have significantly changed in most parts of the world especially in Europe, North America, and Asia, nevertheless Africa remains the main problem regarding the number of educated people. Another interesting point has been made over the years, whether educational institutions are ready to provide qualitive education to young people, and prepare them for social, economical, and political aspects of human life.The commitment of the international community to implement the rights set out in the UDHR, mainly to adopt certain measur es to ensure effective recognition, has taken different forms from international treaties to internationally agreed programmers. The UDHR's rights and standards do not have force of law, however, the UDHR's rights have been transformed into treaty provisions making legal obligation on the states that ratified the treaty to provide citizens with free and qualitative education on at least primary level.The right to education is dealt with in Articles XIII and XIV of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and is also mentioned in Article XVIII(4) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. As I previously mentioned almost all countries in the world have adopted and ratified treaties concerning right to education, but only some of them left doors open to individual citizens in their countries to challenge their own country for not complying with the provisions that they set in the treaties if that is the case.In all Western Europe countries which have highly developed legal system, now exists a body of case law in regard to the right to education. Besides international treaties, countries worldwide have adopted other instruments for implementation of the right to education, from Recommendations of international conferences of States, to Declarations and Programmes or Frameworks for Action adopted by intergovernmental conferences, or by ‘mixed’ conferences composed of representatives of governments, international organizations and civil society such as the World Conference on Education for All.The recommendations agreed by international conferences of states do not have the legally binding force as treaties, thus, they are normally adopted by consensus on the understanding that country will make everything in its power to implement provisions. In the world’s perception of the right to education changes has been made in the few past decades. the changes occurred in three phases or stages.In the first phase, lasting from the late 1940s up until the early 1960s, international concern over the provision of ‘fundamental education’ came to focus particularly on literacy and expansion of elementary of primary education in developing countries. The second phase started in the mid 1960s until the late 1970s when focus passed on functional illiteracy and expansion of elementary education continued. In the last phase, from 1980s until the present functional literacy was regarded as an aspect of learning needs. Two general points for educational policy can be made.The first is national efforts to reach out to those illiterate adults especially in Africa and the second to expand access to elementary education for the younger generation again mainly in Africa. These two points are the grounds for fulfillment of the UDHR article XXVI – right to education. Other provisions can be only partially fulfilled such as free education, but two provisions I mentioned can be fulfille d entirely in the whole world. The assessment of the fulfillment of the right to education is done by using so called 4As framework, which means that education must be available, adaptable, acceptable, and accessible.This 4A framework was developed by Mrs. Katarina Tomasevski, the former UN Special Rapporteur on the right to education. This 4A framework is intended to be applied on the governments, parents, and teachers. I will briefly explain these 4 As. Availability means that education must be funded mainly by the governments, education must be universal, free, and compulsory. The governments must ensure necessary infrastructure and educational materials for students and professors. Facilities intended to be schools must satisfy all safety standards, and all each school must have enough professional educators.Adaptability means that educational programs should be flexible and schools must respect all religious holiday. Adequate care must be given to student and professors with di sabilities. Accessibility means all children must have access to school regardless of race, religion, gender, nationality or social status. School must be within a reasonable distance for children, and if necessary transportation must be provided. Children must be supplied with all necessary textbooks and uniforms without additional costs.Acceptability means that education that will be provided to students must be culturally appropriate and without if discrimination. Professors and methods of teaching must be objective, and all textbooks must not be bias or forcing single idea or belief. Professors must be at highest possible level of professionalism. UNESCO has several instruments for monitoring the implementation of the UDHR right of education with the support of Member States, various international organizations, the intellectual community, etc.Thus, UNESCO's constitution requires that member states must submit periodic reports on the implementation and development of the right t o education. The articles VI and VIII of the UNESCO constitutions provides: „Each Member State shall submit to the Organization, at such time and in such manner as shall be determined by the General Conference, reports on laws, regulations and statistics relating to its educational, scientific and cultural institutions and activities, and on the action taken upon the recommendations and conventionsâ€Å".United Nation bodies which deal with human rights periodically receive reports from Member States, governmental and non-governmental organizations on implementation and violations of human rights including the right to education. The Committee on the Rights of the Child and the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women are just two treaty bodies out of several which monitor the implementation of the right to education. Thus, it is important that two treaty bodies I mentioned above closely cooperate with UNESCO in order to protect human rights.I t is important to mention five international treaties which relate to education and protection of such right: International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, Convention against Discrimination in Education, Protocol Instituting a Conciliation and Good Offices Commission to be Responsible for Seeking the Settlement of any Disputes which may arise between States Parties to the Convention Against Discrimination in Education, Convention on the Rights of the Child, and Convention on Technical and Vocational Education.Besides to all the efforts of the United Nation, UNESCO, various international agencies and organization to implement UDHR's provisions mainly article XXVI, many governments still give too little attention to protection of human rights. Hugh amount of money are being injected in military development and maintenance, while education as the important pillar of the modern society still stays on the margins of the governments budgets.Mrs. Katarina Tomasevski, the former UN Special Rapporteur on the right to education wrote interesting comparison stating that there are 150 soldiers for every 100 teachers in the world. She additionally stated that only 2% of educational funds come from international aid. Thus, in many African countries even primary education is not free and education simply becomes too expensive for the poor families in those countries.Education cannot survive without money, and implementation and protection of the right to education depends upon the funds that governments and international organizations are willing to provide. We can conclude that only Europe and North America managed to satisfy all the requirements stated in the United Declaration of Human Rights article XXVI. There is still a lot of work to be done to copy this example to the rest of the world, especially in Africa, where education is only one problem among many others. References: The United Nations Right to education organization United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization The State of the Right to Education Worldwide: Free or Fee World education report. 2000. Unesco Publishing.