Buddhist Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Buddhist Psychology - Essay Example But as we begin to discover more of ourselves, and we begin to understand and honor the presence of things and people around us, we become less of a person who is self-seeking but we are slowly being transformed to become self-giving. The more we enjoy the meaning of ourselves, the more we want to share it or give part of ourselves away. As we get to know each other more, it is much simpler to be generous to others, in almost everything. This is because of our increased sense of security, we have taken from our self-awareness. In my opinion, a person who is self aware, is less insecure. We become more comfortable even in unknowns spheres and parameters. We are no longer confined to restrictions and it becomes a need to share what we are and who we are. Buddhism or Psychotherapy invokes that the further we look at/into our selves the further we are perpetuating the notion of no self. No self basically means letting go of narcissistic notions and furthermore allowing oneself to become part of a bigger picture in the world. This may sound very paradoxical but this can be explained in several ways. For example, the more we are in touch with our senses, the better we perceive the senses of others. Our personal sensitivity becomes not just means to promote our own needs but also to meet the needs of others. Simple fact such as being sensitive to foul smell, we cannot just easily ignore it, because our senses can perceive it, at the same time we subconsciously know that others smell it too, thus we begin to "care" about others, and how they would perceive things. This is purely a function of departing from our own self.Such tendency allows us to discover our inner connection to the world and other beings. As Aristotle says, men indeed are social beings. We are born to form communities and relate with fellow beings. This way of looking at ourselves, will definitely bring us back to the essentials of becoming social beings.According to Mark Epstein, "What Buddhism teaches is that the connection, the ability to find intimacy or connection, is inherent within us, and that if we can j ust surrender back into that capacity for love, that is all of our birthrights--all babies are born with that; they instinctively love their caretakers. So if we can find that again, then our relationships will take care of themselves."(Epstein, 2005) Mark Epstein pioneered the Eastern teachings of non-self, something that is so different and new to the Western mind. Instead of the usual or traditional Western teaching of separation, individuality as the ultimate psychological goals of human development, he opted to create a theory that is based on connection. Through Buddhism, the idea of "self" becomes a part of a certain whole- which is the universe. Each soul or person becomes a vehicle of spirituality, common to all people. Thus, if we look deeper within ourselves, we find it natural to relate and connect with other people because there is something common amongst all of us, it can be the presence of a higher being within us, or simply the common kind of spirituality which has

Human Resources Information Essay Example for Free

Human Resources Information Essay Introduction This report on data management; has been compiled to explain to you the reasons why HR data is important to an organisation, the types of data that should be recorded, the methods for collecting HR data and some of the UK legislation surrounding the recording, storing and accessibility of HR Data. Types of Data That Should Be Recorded and the Reasons Why â€Å"HR records include a wide range of data relating to individuals working in an organisation, for example, pay or absence levels, hours worked and trade union agreements. This information may be stored in a variety of media, such as computer databases or paper files.† (http://www.cipd.co.uk/hr-resources/factsheets/retention-hr-records.aspx#link_0, accessed 3/3/2015) There are some statutory records that need to be recorded and stored; these statutory records must be kept because the law requires them. Statutory records will include things like the job title, address and emergency contact. Records such as pay and working hours will  be stored to help management adhere to the Working Time Directive and the Minimum Wage Act 1998. Non-statutory records are kept for the internal purposes of the organisation. These records such as attendance, punctuality, skills, strengths and weaknesses can all be used to recognise trends within the company and aggregate management or big data so that managers can act on any trends that may need sorting. For example at P.P. Plasma Ltd there is only one person in the sales department who is trained to read and understand technical drawings. This person is currently in line for a promotion within the group of companies and will no longer be part of the sales team in the next eighteen months. After aggregating the records it has been identified that the manager of the drawing office has the skills to teach the other sales team members enough to fill this skills gap. Other reasons for storing records could be to review capability issues; induction records, training records and health and safety documentation should all allow the organisation to challenge staff on the reasons that they are not following procedures when they have had training and have signed to show understanding. These will also show any other training that may be necessary. As evidence in case of any tribunal or discrimination challenges; recruitment and selection data and termination of employment data will show the organisation has been fair and unbiased in its selection process or how they have dealt with a termination without discrimination. Methods of Storing HR Data Paper Method The paper method of storing records has many more disadvantages than advantages; but for small organisations would still be a viable solution to storing HR records. â€Å"Data relating to employees is of a highly contentious and potentially litigious nature and has to be managed in accordance with compliance regulations. To do this manually is a daunting task and often liable to malpractice.† (http://www.ipcgroup.co.uk, accessed 7/3/2015) There are time limits on the information that can be kept and if you are storing this information manually then this also means that you must remove or redact information every so often. This means that data could be stored for too long. Aggregating all of the data collected into big data can also be a challenge; most of this data will need to be entered into spreadsheets  manually in order to create the management data needed. Other issues with paper records are the cost of floor space needed to store the information, the difficulty of backing up such a system; this would require the same amount of floor space on an alternate site and the security of the records; some filing cabinets may be locked with a key but if somebody were to forget to lock the cabinet then these files are open to anybody with access to the room. Digital Method The digital method could be a cheaper, much more secure, simple and timesaving solution to all organisations but especially the larger ones. â€Å"Given the low cost and the easy accessibility of electronic records storage, many employers are making the digital leap to â€Å"paperless† HR. These days, most records are created and maintained electronically, and some never even make their way to paper.† (http://www.businessmanagementdaily.com, accessed 7/3/2015) Security on a digital system whether it be local or cloud based would be much easier to manage, an electronic record of anybody that as accessed data can be kept automatically and permissions can be set to allow some people to see records that others do not have permission to see; for example at P.P. Plasma Ltd the Managing Director will have access to the HR of everybody in the organisation whereas a departmental manager will only have access to the records on their own staff. Space is only an issue of how much cloud space you can afford or how big a hard drive you can have in your server if you are doing it locally. When using a cloud based service you need to ensure that the cloud service that you are using has a backup system in case of a failure or natural disaster and what the time constraints on these being implemented if needed. Whereas if you are using a local system you will need to speak with your IT department and ensure that the system is backed and removed from the site, this solution will also need a time constraint on how long the system will need to be put back into place. Other reasons to use a digital HR system would be that the data could be aggregated into management and big data easily, whether the HR system has this built in or the data needs to be copied into a spreadsheet or database in order to create graphs, charts , tables and reports. Searching digital records could be done with a few clicks of the mouse and as long as the permissions are set up correctly this could also tell you who you need to  speak to in order to gain access to the information that you are searching for. UK Legislation regarding HR Data There are many pieces of legislation surrounding the recording, accessing and storing of HR data but the two that I am going to explain are the Date Protection Act 1998 and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. The Data Protection Act 1998 controls how your personal information is used by organisations, businesses or the government. Anybody responsible for storing and accessing HR data has to follow the data protection principles. They must make sure the information is: used fairly and lawfully used for limited or specifically stated purposes used in a way that is adequate, relevant and not excessive accurate kept for no longer than is absolutely necessary handled according to people’s data protection rights kept safe and secure not transferred outside the UK without adequate protection Anybody who feels that there data has not been used in accordance to these principles can make a complaint to the organisation themselves and if they are still unhappy with the response can contact the Information Commissioner’s Office. The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives the general public right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities and those providing services for them. It also sets out exemptions from that right and places a number of obligations on public authorities. Recorded information includes printed documents, computer files, letters, emails, photographs, and sound or video recordings. In order to adhere to the Freedom of Information Act; any person making a request to a public authority for information will be entitled to be informed whether that information is held. The Freedom of Information Act does not give people access to their own personal data such as their health records or credit reference file. If a member of the public wants to see information that a public authority holds about them, they should make a subject access request under the Data Protection Act 1998

Sieze The Day :: essays research papers

Sieze the Day!   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Andrew Marvell wrote his short poem â€Å"To His Coy Mistress† in a persuasive tone to allow the speaker to convince his mistress, the listener, to succumb to his want. Marvell uses meter, imagery, and tone to persuade his lady to further commit in their relationship. This poem has a very strong carpe diem or seize the day theme which Marvell conveys throughout the poem.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In general, the meter of the poem is iambic tetrameter. Marvell uses pauses as well as enjambment to break up the neat pattern that the rhyme scheme of the poem imposes. The first two lines, for example, contain internal pauses that break the tetrameter into shorter units; â€Å"Had we but world enough, and time, This coyness, lady, were no crime.† The third line contains no pauses and runs directly into the fourth, so that the rhyme runs opposite the rhythm of the couplet. Near the end of the poem, the lines seem to be coming out faster than at the beginning, creating a sense of urgency as the speaker talks. These last few lines are the lines in which the speaker talks about how the two should seize the day and live life to the fullest.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The use of imagery throughout the poem is also an effective means of conveying his message to the lady. His references to the Great Flood and the conversion of the Jews are both examples of biblical imagery. The timelessness of the Bible backs up his eternal love towards his lady. The references of the tomb are perhaps the greatest images of all, the images of death. Nothing depicts the urgency and shortness of life better than the expectation of death. Images implied in the last stanza are those of a race against time. The goal is to try to beat time, and although time will eventually win, the â€Å"runners† must try to keep up with time for as long as possible, and actually beat it for awhile with the moment of love. And because no way exists to beat time, Marvell suggests that they must live with life they have to the fullest.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Marvell’s excellent use of tone also helps to prove his argument with his mistress. In the first section, the poem takes a loving, romantic tone; â€Å"We would sit down, and think which way to walk, and pass our long love’s day.† Marvell’s romantic style of writing helps to prove his allegation that he loves his mistress more than anything in the world. The tone undergoes a drastic change in the second stanza, however; â€Å"I always hear time’s winged chariot hurrying near.

Cultural Diversity Ewareness Essay

Many cultural differences abound in San Francisco’s educational institutions. The so many people of different races who live together in this side of the United Sates have quite a challenge trying to coexist because of their cultural differences occasioned by their differences in race, religion, gender, social status besides others. These differences pit the whites, Latinos, Caucasians, Black Americans and the physically challenged against each other in their day to day activities whether it is in the educational institutions, in church or in several other social organizations. A case in study here is the educational institution set up where these differences are so common they threaten to get out of control. All these groups live in a state of denial because they are not able to appreciate their cultural differences. Stereotyping coupled with worrying levels of intolerance has adversely affected social order in campuses since no one group is prepared to accept what they see as an act meant to devalue them from from an otherwise well- meaning different racial group. This has resulted in near total communication breakdown. One needs to be well acquainted with the several differences in the cultures of these students so as to be able to coexist without these unnecessary conflicts (Paul et al 1967). Black Americans and students from foreign countries mainly from Africa, Latin America and some Asian countries have most of the time had the going tough due to racial profiling. Discrimination is meted against them and their response is denial and defencse. A few respond to this challenge using minimization. Most cases of violent confrontations on many campuses in San Francisco are as a result of these differences which are more often than not ignored by the concerned authorities. Professionals handling students’ affairs should make every effort to infuse into students affairs work the needed skills that bring about multicultural competences, for example awareness and the knowledge together with the necessary skills so that the students can be able to work with fellow culturally different students in a way that bears meaning, relevance and productive ways (Pope, Reynolds & Mueller 2004). Cross-cultural communication is a big issue here as the different racial groups speak a language that sometimes has words that do not exist in the vocabulary of the others or words that bear different meanings and this presents a case of communication on cross-purposes and therefore conflicts are bound to be frequent. We are talking about slang, idioms and dialects that are not common to all. A student from outside the U. S. will not fully understand the meanings of many words used by their native college mates occasioning a breakdown in communication. This age-group has its own set of language that deviates from the common language, the only one they know and this brings misunderstandings among them posing a threat to communication. The physically challenged do not fare well in many socio-cultural settings due to heir disabilities. They are left to maneuver through the tight and difficult programs in the educational institutions on their own. The frustration resulting from these acts of abeism makes them react by way of misplaced aggression (Jaime 2004). To this, they respond by coiling to a corner to give the strong way, and so do some female students. College youth has serious intolerance for some religions especially Islam. Most of them in this region few and associate it with terrorism, which is a very harsh term to a fellow student, but still they cannot avoid using it against students from some Asian countries or those from a similar origin. Counseling needs to be given priority in resolving these various differences and biases. REFERENCES Jaime, (2004). Toward Multiculturalism: A Reader in Multicultural Education; Newton, Ma, Intellectual Resource Corporation. Paul et al, (1967). Pragmatics of Human Communication: A History of Interactional Patterns, Pathologies and Paradoxes. New York, W. W. Norton. Pope, Reynolds and Mueller, (2004). Multicultural Competence in Student Affairs; San Francisco, CA.

How does Shakespeare make Act 1, Scene 1 exciting and dramatic?

Romeo and Juliet is one of Shakespeare's most memorable plays. The play is based on star-crossed lovers with tragedy, violence, love and arguments. The story of Romeo and Juliet is about two lovers that can't be together because their families are enemies, but nothing can't stop them and at the end both of them due in a dramatic way. The main themes are romance, tragedy and conflict. The play is relevant for us because those kinds of things still happen, young people kill them self because of love and in some families, the girls can't be able to pick her own husbands, the females have to do the house work and the males are supposed to bring money home. The play was set in the 14th century. Shakespeare had to face loads of challenges to make the play interesting, also he had to keep on improving, to not get the audience throw the food on stage, if they have done that, then this meant that the play is boring. Theatre in Shakespeare era was a place where rich people could go to rest, and have fun, whereas the poor people would be able to earn money, by selling beer, snacks, or collecting the lost money. Theatre nowadays is a place that must be cultural; you are not allowed to throw food on stage, if you do so you have to leave. In Shakespeare era there weren't any spot lights or CD players which form you could be able to play music, or add sound effect, so Shakespeare had to make scene dramatic and exciting by costumes, voices, words and body language. The servants are the first characters on the stage. They grab the audience's attention because servants are not very important, they are on a bottom shelf in your life, and they are also known as not educated people. Thought that all the best things should only happened to them, but over a time everything has changed. Some people would like seeing servant because they are normally low status, so called groundlings. The rich people might felt weird when they saw someone poor on the stage, because how can someone lower classes than them perform, also they never could expect that. The opening scene begins with just two characters on the stage and soon there where more than ten, fighting fiercely. Shakespeare decision to include a fight at the beginning was clever because he made the play exciting and dangerous; most of the people enjoyed it, because when the beginning is great the rest must be much better. `Nay, as they dare. I will bite my thumb at them which is disgrace to them, if they bare it` this shows that Sampson is planning everything out carefully, and knows what going to make them fight. Sampson and Gregory are very good friends, and it shows that they trust each other, but Sampson is more clever than him, because he is the one that plans everything out. Tybalt and Benvolio have very contrasting characters. Tybalt seems to be angry while Benvolio is calm. ‘Part, fools! ‘ this shows that Benvolio is trying to stop the fight; this also tells as that Benvolio is a peace maker and that he has manners and he is higher status. The explanation mark show's that he is shouting and trying get attention from the fighters. On the other hand, Tybalt says `As I hate hell, all Montagues and thee`. This quote suggests he is angry and want to continue the trouble, so called fight. The audience might enjoy seeing him on stage. He also shows that he like to be everywhere, where trouble begins, he also must be the start of it, or join in, somebody else's trouble. Shakespeare then changes the mood of opening scene from a serious fight to comical rows between husbands and wives. When Lady Capulet says `A crutch, a crutch! Why call you for a sword? ` it may make the audience giggle or laugh because a women is shouting, at her husband and making him feel old and unusable. The scene could be also dramatic, Lord Capulet could go up and hit the women, and show her no respect. The scene is also exciting because in this scene woman is showing no respect to man, which normally is the other way round. This shows the audience that not only men can be in control, and they are the one that should wear pants, which mean to be in control. The males in the audience would have felt ashamed because the other main male character, is not able to join the fight, because of his wife, she didn't let him. Women however would felt joyful because a woman is keeping a man on a short string. As the scene continues, the fight escalates and Shakespeare introduces Prince Escalus to try and stop the violence. The Prince represents a figure of a strong person, which everybody should be scared of. Prince Escalus represent is responsible for everything that happens; he is like a boss or leader to everyone. He is protecting, and making sure everyone is safe when he is around. Shakespeare needs this character to be able to change the mood of the play. In the Elizabethan era everyone enjoyed the fight in the play, because it was difficult to see them on the street. Fights were improving everyone's humor, so Shakespeare had needed a character to stop the fight, and make the audience react differently. The audience could be very angry about stopping something that they had enjoyed. The upper classes may be happy because the violence has stopped, and is not giving anyone such a bad example. The groundling will be upset, because they are not used to see fight with upper class people. The prince speech used language to create a change of mood, `Purple foundations issuing my veins. In this quotation the Prince had used a metaphor, he is trying to compare our veins to foundations, because the blood would never stop going around our body. He is trying to tell everyone that, the anger should stay inside of us, like the blood in veins; Prince is also trying to say that the fight is unneeded. This gives us impression that the Prince is treating everyone equal, he never keeps anyone's side. This language contributes to making Act 1, Scene 1 a dramatic and effective opening, because Prince is changing the mood, he also shows everyone his opinion about fighting. The introduction of Romeo to the opening scene is interesting because we get to learn more about his character before he even appears on stage. From Benvolio and Lord Montague we learn that Romeo is fed up, sad and unhappy. This can make the audience feel curious or annoyed because the main character, start form being very negative about life, while he is rich and can get anything he want. Romeo's conversation with his cousin reveals a lot about his character and grabs the audience's attention. ` Why the, O brawling love, O loving hate` Romeo is talking about love difficulty, why does it have to be so painful. Romeo had used oxymoron's, `loving hate` those two words are opposite of each other, by using language like that he shows the audience that he is very confused about his life. The audience alternatively might think that Romeo is too young to know anything about love problems, and that he is not able to show his emotions. Normally 15 years old boy should have a positive character, and minds full of having fun. Shakespeare adds more elements of drama to the first scene, when Benvolio tells Romeo that he should have another look for good-looking girls. By giving liberty into thine eyes, examine other beauties. ` This could be exacting because Romeo could have an argument with him, about what love really is, and it not about only being beauty. Benvolio had sounded like, he never would understand love, and all he thinks about is girls' beauty, not what she has to offers, inside her. He is not trying to understand Romeo feeling, he is telling him, to try to find someone else, and forget about the other girl. In my conclusion, Act 1 Scene 1 is very exciting and dramatic, it makes the audience want to see more, it also explains the whole play action. Shakespeare successfully had used the first scene to introduce the themes of the play, love, argument, tragedy. Shakespeare also had good introducing of characters, such as Romeo and enemies, Shakespeare engages with a range of audience members, through language, action, humor and romance, for example females would be excited when they will be seeing romance, whereas males would be very excited watching fights. In my opinion the play is great for young people, because it explains how much love can be painful and the confusion about it, like Romeo had with Rosaline. The most dramatic and exciting scene was when Romeo was talking with Benvolio, about Rosaline. I thought that he might even kill himself, Benvolio was replaying in humor way, he really didn't understand what Romeo was saying, Romeo was very negative character, what made everything very dramatic, because nobody could think of what goes around 15 years old boy minds. He could think of death, or of ways to die. Form first scene you get the understanding, about the whole play, it tells you everything step by step.

Price Elasticity of Supply

Price Elasticity of Supply This is the third article in this series on the economic concept of elasticity. The first explains the basic concept of elasticity and illustrates it using price elasticity of demand as an example. The second article in the series considers Income Elasticity of Demand.  Ã‚   A brief review  of the concept of elasticity and of price elasticity of demand appears in the section immediately following. In the section following that income elasticity of demand is also reviewed.  In the final section, price elasticity of supply is explained and its formula given in the context of the discussion and reviews in the previous sections. A Brief Review of Elasticity in Economics Consider the demand for a certain good- aspirin, for example. What happens to the demand for one manufacturers aspirin product when that manufacturer- which well call manufacturer X- raises the price? Keeping that question in mind, consider a different situation: the demand for the worlds most expensive new automobile, the  Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita. Its reported retail price is $4.8 million. What do you think might happen if the manufacturer raised the price to $5.2M or lowered it to $4.4M?   Now, return to the question of the demand for manufacturer Xs aspirin product following an increase in the retail price. If you guessed that the demand for Xs aspirin  might decline substantially, youd be right. It makes sense, because, first, every manufacturers aspirin product is essentially the same as anothers- theres no health advantage whatsoever in selecting one manufacturers product over another. Second, the product is widely available from a number of other manufacturers- the consumer always has a number available choices. So, when a consumer selects an aspirin product, one of the few things that distinguish manufacturer Xs product from others is that it costs a little more. So why would the consumer choose X? Well, some might continue to buy aspirin X out of habit or brand loyalty, but many very probably would not. Now, lets return to the Koenigsegg CCXR, which currently costs $4.8M, and think about what might happen if the price went up or down a few hundred thousand. If you thought it might not change the demand for the car by that much, youre right again. Why? Well, first of all, anyone in the market for a multi-million dollar automobile is not a frugal shopper. Someone who has money enough to consider the purchase is unlikely to be concerned about price. Theyre concerned primarily about the car, which is unique. So the second reason why the demand might not change much with price is that, really, if you want that particular driving experience, theres no alternative. How would you state these two situations in more formal economic terms? Aspirin has a high price elasticity of demand, meaning that small changes in price have greater demand consequences. The Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita has a low elasticity of demand, meaning that changing the price doesnt greatly change buyer demand.  Another way of stating the same thing a little more generally is that when the demand for the product has a percentage change thats less than the percentage change in the products price, the demand is said to be inelastic. When the percentage increase or decrease in demand is greater than the percentage increase in price, the demand  is said to be elastic.   The formula for price elasticity of demand, which is explained in a little more detail in the first article in this series, is: Price Elasticity of Demand (PEoD) (% Change in Quantity Demanded/ (% Change in Price) A Review of Income Elasticity of Demand The second article in this series, Income Elasticity of Demand, considers the effect on demand of a different variable, this time consumer income. What happens to consumer demand when consumer income drops? The article explains that what happens to consumer demand for a product when consumer income drops depends upon the product. If the product is a necessity- water, for instance- when consumer income drops they will continue to use water- perhaps a little more carefully- but theyll probably cut back on other purchases. To generalize this idea slightly, consumer demand for essential products will be relatively inelastic  with respect to changes in consumer income, but elastic  for products that are not essential. The formula for this is: Income Elasticity of Demand (% Change in Quantity Demanded)/(% Change in Income) Price Elasticity of Supply The price elasticity of supply (PEoS) is used to see how sensitive the supply of a good is to a price change. The higher the price elasticity, the more sensitive producers and sellers are to price changes. A very high price elasticity suggests that when the price of a good goes up, sellers will supply a great deal less of the good and when the price of that good goes down, sellers will supply a great deal more. A very low price elasticity implies just the opposite, that changes in price have little influence on supply. The formula for price elasticity of supply is: PEoS (% Change in Quantity Supplied)/(% Change in Price) As with the elasticity of other variables If PEoS 1 then Supply is Price Elastic (Supply is sensitive to price changes)If PEoS 1 then Supply is Unit ElasticIf PEoS 1 then Supply is Price Inelastic (Supply is not sensitive to price changes) Incidentally, we always ignore the negative sign when analyzing  price  elasticity, so PEoS is always positive.

Scholarship Essay on Future Goals

Scholarship Essay on Future Goals Scholarship Essay on Future Goals Before one can consider himself successful, he needs to be able to achieve certain goals that he has established for himself. I have both personal and professional goals. First, I want to be independent. That means I must obtain an education or training that will help me to develop marketable skills so I can get a decent paying job, one that will take care of my needs and the needs of those for whom I will be responsible throughout life. I also have as a personal goal to remain healthy. That means eating healthy, nutritious meals, exercising appropriately, and getting enough rest so that my body can function properly. In obtaining my professional goals, I must first decide what I am interested in doing for a career. I need to research that career to see what skills, training, and education are required. It is also wise for me to see if this career is in demand and what the market demand will be for this career path for the next ten to fifteen years. Additionally, I should have an idea of how much money I can expect to make in this career and what kinds of opportunities exist for furthering my career. I also need to take into account where to receive the necessary training and education and how much it costs. Furthermore, I must determine how I will pay for this education. Of course I want to be happy, and so that is another goal. Even if I manage to make all the money that I desired, it would mean little to me if I was dissatisfied with my life in some way. I would not want to get into a career path that will serve all my other needs but leave me miserable. I would rather get into a career that may not pay much but that I find fulfilling in some way. If an individual does not see the value in what he does, he is inclined not to respect himself. That sense of unhappiness tends to spill over into other areas of his life, such as the treatment of coworkers, and even interactions with family members. So, with that in mind, one of my goals is to find a career that I enjoy and feel is worthwhile in some manner. Finally, another personal goal is to become a role model to as many people that I can, but especially to my children when I eventually have them. Since I was young, I have always had the urge to influence people in a positive manner and lead them in a positive, productive direction. This is because I grew up observing a number of social ills not only in my neighborhood but in the media as well. I hope to be a good influence on others throughout my life. Scholarship essay writing tips: Given that this scholarship essay is a personal essay, the examiner or reader expects the writer to offer ideas that are unique with regards to goals for the future. When writing this essay, one should keep in mind that it is a scholarship essay. This means that one is expected to impress the reader enough to make the reader to grant the applicant a scholarship. Since the scholarship is for an education, one should include acquiring a good education as a major goal. In fact, if you need a custom essay for scholarship feel free to contact writing service. Our experts will provide you with quality scholarship paper writing help.

Job Opportunities for Teaching English Abroad

Job Opportunities for Teaching English Abroad Over the past few decades teaching English abroad has become a career choice for many native English speakers. Teaching English abroad offers an opportunity to not only see the world but to also get to know local cultures and customs. As with any profession, teaching English abroad can be rewarding if approached in the right spirit and with your eyes open. Training Teaching English abroad is open to almost anybody who has a bachelors degree. If you are interested in teaching English abroad to broaden the horizons, theres really no need to worry about getting a masters degree in ESOL, TESOL. However, it is important to acquire a TEFL or CELTA certificate when teaching English abroad. The providers of these certificates usually offer a basic month long course that teaches you the ropes of teaching English abroad. There are also online certificates to prepare you for teaching English abroad. If you are interested in an online course, you can take a quick look at my review of i-to-i aimed at those interested in teaching English abroad. However, many people in the profession feel that the online certificates are not nearly as valuable as certificates taught on site. Personally, I think there are valid arguments that can be made for both types of courses. Finally, one important aspect is that many of these certificate providers also offer help in job placement. This can be a very important factor when deciding which course is right for you in your efforts to begin teaching English abroad. For more information on certificates necessary for teaching English abroad you can refer to these resources on this site: Getting a Teaching Certificate  - TESOL Teacher CertificationESL Teacher Training and Certification ResourcesGetting Qualified as an ESL Teacher Job Opportunities Once you have received a teaching certificate you can begin teaching English abroad in a number of countries. Its best to take a look at some of the more important job boards to check out the opportunities. As you will quickly find out, teaching English abroad doesnt always pay very well, but there are a number of positions that will help out with housing and transport. Make sure to check out these ESL / EFL job board sites when you start applying for teaching English abroad. Before you begin looking for a job, its a good idea to take a while to understand your own priorities and expectations. Use this advice on teaching English abroad article to help you get started. TEFL.com - Probably the site with the most jobs posted. ESL Employment - Another fantastic resource. Europe Teaching English abroad requires different documentation for different countries. For example, if you are interested in teaching English abroad in Europe, its very difficult to get a working permit if you are not a citizen of the European Union. Of course, if you are an American interested in teaching English abroad and are married to a European Union member, thats not a problem. If you are from the UK and interested in teaching English abroad on the continent - its no problem at all. Asia Teaching English abroad in Asia generally, offers many more opportunities to US citizens because of high demand. There are also a number of job placement agencies that will help you find work in teaching English abroad in Asia. As always, there are some horror stories out there, so beware and make sure to find a reputable agent. Canada, UK, Australia and the USA Its been my experience that the United States offers the fewest job opportunities of any of the native English speaking countries. That might be because of difficult visa restrictions. In any case, if you are teaching English abroad in a native English speaking country, youll find opportunities abound for special summer courses. As always, rates arent usually that high, and in some cases teaching English abroad also means being responsible for a certain number of student activities such as field trips and various sporting activities. Teaching English Abroad Long Term If you are interested in teaching English abroad for more than just the short term, you should consider further training. In Europe, the TESOL diploma and Cambridge DELTA diploma are popular options to deepen your teaching expertise. If you are interested in teaching English abroad at a university level, a masters degree in ESOL is certainly advisable. Finally, one of the best long-term opportunities for teaching English abroad is in English for Specific Purposes. This is often known as business English. These jobs are often on-site in various workplaces and often offer better pay. They are also much harder to find. While teaching English abroad, you may want to move in this direction if you are interested in teaching English abroad as a career choice.

Strategy management Literature review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Strategy management - Literature review Example However, this fact does not affect his performance. In fact, crafting is characterized by the detailed review of organizational problems, allowing for more precise managerial decisions compared to common methods of strategic decision making, where there is the risk of generic assumptions. This advantage of crafting towards other methods of strategic decision making is made clear through the following statement of Mintzberg: manager as a craftsman ‘has to craft his strategy as a potter has to manage her craft’ (Mintzberg 1988, p.73). Another characteristic of the manager who acts as a craftsman is that he is able to use his critical thinking on a constant basis – even when executing a task using his hands (Mintzberg 1988, p.78); this potential for simultaneous use of mind and hands is an advantage of the manager who acts as a craftsman. The view of Mintzberg that the manager is a craftsman, is in opposition with the view of Miller et al. (2005) who noted that strategic decision making is based on intuition; when being used for decision making in organizations, intuition may have two different forms: it could be either a holistic hunch or an automated expertise (Miller et al. 2005, 22); in its first form, intuition is used in organizations where ‘exploration has been adopted as a goal’ (Miller et al. 2005, p.22-23); on the other hand, intuition in its second form can be identified in organizations that focus on ‘execution and building on past investments’ (Miller et al. 2005, p.22-23). At this point, it is assumed that these managers prefer to avoid focusing on details when having to develop critical strategic decisions (ignoring the theory of manager as a craftsman, as stated by Mintzberg, 1987) considering their intuition as more appropriate criterion for the development of effective strategic decisions. The use of the theory of Mintzberg for

Organisational Behaviour and Change Management Essay

Organisational Behaviour and Change Management - Essay Example So, in 2005, it actualized that plan by adopting the diversity program. This program apart from improving Nike’s ethical image, also positively affects the economic and non-economic aspects of Nike’s functioning. Importantly it opens up a surge of opportunities and so this paper as part of a strategic plan will discuss those opportunities, focusing on the ethical dilemmas associated with those opportunities. Then the paper will discuss the actualization of those opportunities through optimization of the strategic plan, incorporating strategies from other organization. Any organized human activity, which is done in-group, will be most times constituted into an organization. So, organization is a ‘structure’ where ‘collage’ of workers will do their allocated work under the supervision of a leader, for the benefit of the organization as well as them. When one speaks or thinks about an industry or an office or an organization, the ‘mental picture’, one visualizes is of machines, large assembling plants, etc, etc (in case of industries) and papers, computers, cabins etc, etc (in case of offices). But, the crucial thing that the mind ‘crops out’ is the picture of a working human. Without delving deeply into why mind always associate industry and office with non-living things, the point is, humans are the crucial things who can put an organization in a cruise mode in terms of production, sales, profits, etc. So, the workers only form the crucial ‘cog’ in the running of the organization. On ly if these crucial workers are recruited or staffed optimally through an effective recruitment process, the organization can achieve optimum success. But, for the organizations particularly multinational companies, recruiting the apt workers is not the end of the task, they have to recruit employees from diverse backgrounds in their home operations and

Preservation of Organs for Transplant Research Paper - 1

Preservation of Organs for Transplant - Research Paper Example Sodiumpump regulates and reduces intracellular sodium under normothermic conditions, however, when the pump speed falls during hypothermia, the intracellular sodium rises, thus pulling water into the cell leading to lethal cell swelling (Toledo-Pereyra, 42). Methods With the modern technologies, some organs such as the liver can be stored for a longer periodthrough flushing the tissues or applying organ preservation fluids and preserving the tissues at (0–5Â ° C) hypothermic temperatures. This method is efficient as it uses various impairmentagents such as lactobionic acid, raffinose, hydroxyethyl glucose that prevent swelling of the cells during storage, and because the solution contains glutathione and adenosine agents that trigger normal metabolism function upon reperfusion by triggering generation high-energy phosphate (adenosine) upon reperfusion. Since the development of the UW solution, other preservation solutions have been discovered, which include Histidine-Tryptoph ane-Ketoglutarate (HTK) and Celsior. However, some Percentages of organs such as livers, kidneys and intrathoracic organs fail upon transplant hence need for improved methods for preservation.Bottom of Form Dynamic preservation methods require some dynamic fluid or gas movement to allow preservation. In the 20th century, Hypothermic machine perfusion was invented for organ preservation to extend both preservation time and quality. Alexis Carrel coined the term organ culture referring to an analogous technique for whole organs that would be developed by using vascular perfusion with support of Charles Lindbergh who helped with the engineering in which he developed a glass perfusion pump that could support kidneys by maintaining oxygen delivery through perfusion. Hypothermic... This paper stresses that in many years following the first successful transplantation of organs, preservation of tissues and organs has attained incredible successes in enhancing and improving preservation and function of organs, and irrespective of these improvements, a huge disparity still exists among the number of people on the waiting list and the available organs donors. The main organ preservation challenge will be how to enhance the marginal donor organs recovery and resuscitation mainly the donation after cardiac organ death; therefore, given the success of static organ preservation methods, the dynamic preservation methods, oxygen persufflation methods and other methods, there is a crucial advances in improving the donor problems. The author of the paper talks that dynamic preservation methods require some dynamic fluid or gas movement to allow preservation. In the 20th century, Hypothermic machine perfusion was invented for organ preservation to extend both preservation ti me and quality. This report makes a conclusion that hypothermic machine perfusion allows organs oxidation for ATP creation through fluid perfusion for oxygen transportation. The cold tissues oxygen requirements are low thus the oxygen demand is also low and this allows for slow flow rates during hypothermia and the relatively low oxygen carrying capacity of most crystalloid perforates are adequate at low temperatures.

Judiciary Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Judiciary Assignment - Essay Example However, at around midnight, turmoil broke out for a couple of minutes and literally affected those in attendance. In this case, Bradley Smith was injured severely in the bar fight. He brought a premises liability action against Del Lago and the jury realized that the resort was 51% responsible and smith had a 49% responsibility on the occurrence. The damages were estimated to be worth $2,874,000, although the trial court minimized the damages by 49% and they agreed that Smith was to be compensated $1,478,283. Bradley smith won the case and he was compensated for his loss. This was a major reason that resulted to the judge’s disagreement. In case I was the Texas Supreme Court Justice, I would conclude the risk of a criminal act that occurred in the Grandstand Bar resulted to injuries although it was not predicted. This means that Del Lago never owed any legal duty to Smith so that he would protect him fro the criminal acts of the third party. In this case, a decision was issued on 3rd March, 2010 and it involved Ronald Lee Wilson, who was accused of shooting Amos Gutierrez during the year 2006. It was noted that the case was not successful since the detective used invalid forensic reports to deceive Wilson so that he would think that his fingerprints were on the ammo clip that was found lying next o the body of Amos Gutierrez. This issue focused Wilson to admit having committee the crime, although he was not involved. However, after the appellants motion to suppress, it is evident that the police officer who had interrogated the defendant had violated the Penal Code 37.09 and he confessed to have tampered with the forensic report. In conclusion, we note that the state provides the defense of the prosecution and it was concluded that Detective Robert created the document as an interrogation technique to ensure that the report was noted as the evidence. According to the law, Wilson served half of the

Nursing Ethics and Leadership Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Nursing Ethics and Leadership Assignment - Essay Example They also carry embody the vision, mission and values of the unit and share with their staff. In line with the budget, we are also charged with managing human resource, ensuring patient and staff satisfaction, maintaining a safe environment for staff, patients and visitors, ensuring standards and quality of care are also maintained. Nurse Managers are also responsible for hiring, training and developing employees. That must however be done through a very economical way. It is common knowledge that all facilities are faced with the problem of scarce resources which must meet all the patients need. Nurses are supposed to be empathetic and work according to the Science of Safety principles of safety design. Therefore, as a nurse manager, it is my responsibility to ensure that every patient’s individual needs are met in an empathetic but professional way. For example, a patient may require a special room. This will be done as per the institution values and protocols. Another protocol is involving the patient and family centered care. As such, as a nurse manager, I am tasked with ensuring that their customers get thee best care possible. By having a supportive and very caring environment where the patients are allowed interactions with their patients, this can be a reality (Studer, 2003). They are also tasked with ensuring quality food, translation or sign language services for their customers. Therefore, our operational costs must be all inclusive. It is important to note that as a nurse manager, I am supposed to subscribe to the Joint Commission for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The local government too has a stake in the quality of care delivered by the facilities to the general. It is therefore by default that a nurse manager draw a budget that is compliant with all these protocols lay down. The nursing codes in western countries specify that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to the patient and not the doctors or employees. One of

Judiciary Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Judiciary Assignment - Essay Example However, at around midnight, turmoil broke out for a couple of minutes and literally affected those in attendance. In this case, Bradley Smith was injured severely in the bar fight. He brought a premises liability action against Del Lago and the jury realized that the resort was 51% responsible and smith had a 49% responsibility on the occurrence. The damages were estimated to be worth $2,874,000, although the trial court minimized the damages by 49% and they agreed that Smith was to be compensated $1,478,283. Bradley smith won the case and he was compensated for his loss. This was a major reason that resulted to the judge’s disagreement. In case I was the Texas Supreme Court Justice, I would conclude the risk of a criminal act that occurred in the Grandstand Bar resulted to injuries although it was not predicted. This means that Del Lago never owed any legal duty to Smith so that he would protect him fro the criminal acts of the third party. In this case, a decision was issued on 3rd March, 2010 and it involved Ronald Lee Wilson, who was accused of shooting Amos Gutierrez during the year 2006. It was noted that the case was not successful since the detective used invalid forensic reports to deceive Wilson so that he would think that his fingerprints were on the ammo clip that was found lying next o the body of Amos Gutierrez. This issue focused Wilson to admit having committee the crime, although he was not involved. However, after the appellants motion to suppress, it is evident that the police officer who had interrogated the defendant had violated the Penal Code 37.09 and he confessed to have tampered with the forensic report. In conclusion, we note that the state provides the defense of the prosecution and it was concluded that Detective Robert created the document as an interrogation technique to ensure that the report was noted as the evidence. According to the law, Wilson served half of the

International Tourism Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

International Tourism Development - Essay Example Organizations like the WTO (World Tourism Organization) and WTTC (World Travel and Tourism Council) are aimed at regularizing and streamlining international tourism in all aspects. International tourism is revered as one of the fastest growing economic sector of the present day world, one of the largest export earners and a very crucial source of employment. In not only ushers in newer opportunities for the local people, but also generates substantial revenues. Recognizing these strengths of international tourism most of the organizations work towards bringing in coherence amongst various governments and local bodies and encourage them to play a more active role in promoting international tourism. In the business oriented world, tourism has almost become synonymous with trade. Whenever a tourism based activity is initiated, it generates trade in some form or the other. To further capitalize on this financial aspect of tourism, various strategies and policies are being adopted by various international organizations. In this regard the WTO releases annual reports on Tourism Market Trends reports which analyze global tourism results and their impact on a country's economy. Acute attention is given to various tourism products like special events, cruises, sports, ecotourism etc. to comprehensively analyze annual tourism trend of a particular country and its effect on the local as well as global trade. A special theory called PEST analysis is often implemented to assess a country's market potential. PEST analysis means adjudging a place on various aspects such as Political factors, Economical factors, Socio-cultural factors and Technological factors. Stability of the government or polity in a country, its economical status, its social and cultural setup and its technological background , all have a vital role to play in determining a country's tourism potential. As today's largest and fastest growing industry international tourism holds immense potential for unprecedented economic boom, globally. It has not only enhanced global trade and generation of revenue but has also given rise to novel ways of economic growth, especially to the developing countries. International tourism organizations are now working towards bringing in symmetry to the whole concept and to achieve global economical growth and prosperity through it. Answer 2: International tourism is present days' fastest growing economic sector and hence its continuous development and regularization is indispensable. Apart from generating huge tax revenue, this industry is also a vital source of foreign exchange and employment. Hence it becomes imperative for any nation to pay acute attention towards development and maintenance of its tourism resources. Tourism stakeholders play a vital role in shaping and sustaining tourism of any place. Tourism stakeholders could be any government or private body engaged in some form of tourism activity. Global tourism stakeholders may also include airports, travel agents, hotels, tour operators etc. Generically, each and every organization, which contributes towards tourism in some form, becomes its stakeholder. Tourism development is a complex activity, which not only includes tourism destinations, countries generating tourism, motivations and influences, but also relationships between people and institutions

Tokyo Drift Essay Example for Free

Tokyo Drift Essay â€Å"The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift† by Justin Lin is a film that allows viewers to attain a heightened level of understanding of the concept of belonging. It extensively explores the notions of separation, connection, displacement and acceptance throughout varying contexts to demonstrate that belonging carries different meaning to individuals. From the beginning it is evident to the audience that the main character, Sean, is no stranger to displacement as his mother states â€Å"This is our third town in two years† implying that they regularly change their location of residency. Her tone suggests that their continuous displacement is undesirable as it increases the difficulty associated with establishing connections with people and places. Sean, who is American, is then forced to move to Tokyo after repeated law infringements for street racing. A montage is shown of him travelling through the city and attending school where he is highlighted as being a single, lone, confused westerner among thousands of Japanese people living their daily lives. This montage is a visual technique which communicates the main character’s feeling of disconnection by depicting him and his actions differently to the rest of his social surrounding. Sean soon establishes a connection with the young street racing community of Tokyo which develops from a common interest in cars. This connection allows room for acceptance by his peers, however their full acceptance of him is still hindered by his many other differences. These remaining obvious differences, explored through the contexts of race, language, values and environment, lead to him being named â€Å"gaijin†, the Japanese word for ‘outsider’ by some within the street racing community. To those that befriend Sean, their acceptance is derived from his connection in the context of an interest in cars. To those that label him as an outsider, they believe he shares no connection with them as he is from a different race, country and culture. This effectively conveys the idea that the concept of belonging carries different meaning to individuals. Later in the story Sean gets to know an important female character, Neala, who appears have a well established identity within the street racing community of Tokyo and he is told that she was once also called a gaijin. Sean then says â€Å"I thought you were born here? † and she replies â€Å"Outsider can mean many different things†. While she appears to have a place in society, other contextual differences not evident in the film, cause her to feel separated; however Sean’s perception of belonging creates an image of her feeling connected with her social surroundings. Through the exploration of different components within the concept of belonging such as difference, connection, displacement and acceptance, â€Å"The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift† is an excellent text in allowing viewers to develop a heightened understanding of the concept of belonging.

Application of Systems Theory in Social Work

Application of Systems Theory in Social Work Systems in Practice Introduction The United Kingdom Children Act 1989 (HMSO, 1989) sets forth all childcare law as such relates to children that are being accommodated by a Local Authority. At the core of the Children Act are the beliefs that children are served best when they are in their own homes (Devon County Council, 2007a). Additionally, the core beliefs of the Act are that the child’s welfare is of the utmost importance, that the child’s parents should stay involved in any and all legal proceedings concerning them, and that such a course of action be avoided if possible (Devon County Council, 2007a). It, the Act, also holds that child welfare is to be promoted, and that children should stay within their families unless unavoidable (Devon County Council, 2007a). Lastly the needs of the child taking into account factors such as race, religion, culture as well as language represent critical facets. In those instances when a child comes under the care of a local authority, it is the responsibility o f the local authority to see to the needs of children in these instances (Devon County Council, 2007b). The foregoing represents important background considerations with regard to the foster care, and the principles underlying such. These basics represent the foundations of any fostering care, placement, and related applications. This examination shall review a case study on social work placement to delve into the manner in which the application of theory, and ideas as they relate to group work on social work practice. Hammond (2003, p. xi) indicates that the â€Å"concept of systems is a theoretical framework in the physical sciences, the life sciences, and the social sciences†. The systems theory is generally acknowledged to have begun with four people, â€Å"Bertalanffy, Boulding, Gerard, and Rapoport, who met in 1954 at the Stanford Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences† (Hammond, 2003, p. xiii). They founded the Society for General Systems Research, which has since become the International Society for the Systems Sciences (International Society for the Systems Sciences , 2007). The systems theory is â€Å" the transdisciplinary study of the abstract organization of phenomena†, in a context that is â€Å"independent of their substance, type, or spatial or temporal scale of existence† (Principia Cybernetica Web, 2007). The systems theory â€Å"investigates both the principles common to all complex entities† as well as â€Å"models which can be u sed to describe them† (Principia Cybernetica Web, 2007). In the context of social work, the systems theory, in its broadest sense, represents the interdisciplinary study concerning human life, along with social organization as represented by systems (Principia Cybernetica Web, 2007). The complexity, yet simiplicity of what the systems theory is, is represented by the following explanantion by Hammond (2003. p. 32) â€Å"Although developments in engineering and management fields are highlighted in the technocratic approach to systems, the emergence of organismic conceptions in biology, psychology, and sociology during the early twentieth century was more important for the evolution of general systems thought†. She continues â€Å" Of course, biological concepts were interpreted in varying ways within different currents of systems thought, and were often appropriated to reinforce and legitimize managerial applications of systems concepts† (Hammond, 2003, p. 32). Ludwig von Beralanffy (1968, p. xxiii), provides his description of systems theory as â€Å"The humanistic concern of general system theory as I understand it makes a difference to mechanistically oriented system theorists speaking solely in terms of mathematics, feedback and technology, and so giving rise to the fear that system theory is indeed the ultimate step towards mechanization and devaluation of man and towards technocratic society†. The concept, while rather complex, does have a sense of simpliticity in that systems theory â€Å"really refers to â€Å"a way of thinking about† or â€Å"an approach to studying† complex systems† (Hammond, 2003. p. 104). Harris (2002, p. 2) advises that von Beralanffy’s approach was â€Å"a more organismic approach to the study of complex systems, objecting to the narrow reductionism of classical science†. The systems theory, in terms of humans and the social sciences, as expressed by Harris (2002, p. 10) has â€Å"something to offer in the articulation and implementation of a more sustaining and sustainable vision of humanitys future.† In terms of social work, Harris (2002, p. 4) states, â€Å"Within this framework, the welfare state has provided the primary vehicle for the mediation of social work†. Harris (2002, p. 4) continues, â€Å"The institutional and organisational processes of the welfare state have been the source of social work’s legal and moral authority and have constituted the material conditions for its practice.† Pinderhughes (1997, p. 20) tells us that â€Å"Training practitioners for competence with diverse populations is high on the list of corrective initiatives to address †¦ inadequacies† in social work practice†. Harris (2002, p. 4) indicates that social policy is influenced by social workers who â€Å"implement legislation on behalf of the state†, thus exercising considerable influence in their roles as professionals. Importantly, Harris (2002, p. 4) points out â€Å"The law sets out the rights, duties and responsibilities of social workers, on t he one hand, and of service users, on the other, in those socially problematic areas which have been accorded official recognition. The law not only defines the ends of social work, but constitutes the source of social workers’ authority for the means by which they intervene in service users’ lives in the pursuit of statutory duties†. Johnson (1972, p. 77) interprets the preceding by stating that social work is not mediated by its context, rather, it is a mediated professions whereby the state decides the clientele as well as what should be provided on their behalf. Harris (1999, pp. 915-937) tells us that social work represents the â€Å"operational embodiment of the welfare state’s intervention in individual citizens’ lives†. In understanding the context of social work in the United Kingdom, Briggs (1961, p. 228) defines the welfare state a â€Å"state in which organised power is deliberately used†¦to modify the play of market forces†¦first, by guaranteeing individuals and families a minimum income irrespective of the market value of their work or their property; second, by narrowing the extent of insecurity by enabling individuals and families to meet certain ‘ social contingencies’, for example, sickness, old age and unemployment which lead otherwise to individual and family crises; and third, by ensuring that all citizens without distinction of status or class are offered the best standard available in relation to a certain agreed range of social services†. The preceding is important in und erstanding the forces behind social work and how such impacts upon its application, usage and context on lives, as well as the conscious and unconscious view that the public has. In helping to shape this picture further, Marshall’s (1963, p. 74) helps to color the palette further in explaining that the social element means â€Å"the whole range from the right to a modicum of economic welfare and security to the right to share to the full in the social heritage and to live the life of a civilised being according to the standards prevailing in the society† He continues that â€Å"The institutions most closely connected with it are the educational system and the social services† (Marshall, 1963, p. 74) In fact, social work plays an important part in linking the state to its populace as it represents the physical human link between government and what it does for the people that can be seen, felt and touched. Or in other words, used! State functions such as roads, infrastructure, sustainable communities, parks, airports, laws, police, and all of the others services that the state provides are there in a physical sense, such as roads, etc, or there for instances of danger, such as the police and armed forces. Social work is a helping, touchy arm of the state that reaches us in the same manner as health services. Wootton (1959, p. 298-299) offers a description in stating that â€Å"The social worker who does for the run of ordinary people what confidential secretaries and assistants do for the favoured few is putting a genuine professional skill at the disposal of those who may properly be called her clients and she is as essential to the functioning of a welfare state as is lubrication to the running of an engine. Without her the machinery would seize up†. Marshall (1975, p. 205) illustrates the preceding by referring to social workers as the mechanics that apply â€Å"their expertise to the lubrication of the welfare state engine were professionals using their expertise in the delivery of social services†. The government, along with social work identify the segment of the population that requires assistance and thus through budgeting and policy, allocates the resources to meet those needs (Alaszewski and Manthorpe, 1990, p. 237). Interestingly, as the areas of accepted social work practice have come to be seen as the norm, and injustice was made less tolerable, historically, new services were thus clamoured for to feel other needs thus explaining the growing nature of the state and social care (Harris, 2002, p. 13) Gertrude Wilson is generally acknowledged as being a key individual in the development of group work (Smith, 2004). Her first book â€Å"Case Work and Group Work† put forth the integrated approach to social work practice which is based in the theory that personal problems stem from both internal and external sources, and thus must be investigated and examined in tandem (Smith, 2004). Her definition of group work states that 1) it is developmental, in that it provides â€Å"for normal social growth, 2) is â€Å"protective or corrective, representing that it can â€Å"be offered to people without groups†, 3) and that it is â€Å"instrumental† in terms of â€Å"achieving socially desirable ends† (Smith, 2004). The last facet entails the understanding of each member’s personalities, the influence of the social worker in terms of their interaction on the group, and the process of participation (Smith, 2004). A key facet of this process represents the c apability to â€Å"assist participants in dealing with conflict and in accepting ‘outsiders’† (McDermott, 2002, p. 14). She points to the preceding as essential in making the group work relationship become reciprocal (McDermott, 2002, p. 14). It is reciprocity that represents a key element in the process as it sets the foundation for give and take as well as fosters trust, cohesion within the group and this can thus be transferred to the outside world (McDermott, 2002, p. 14). Trecker (1948, p. 7) advises, â€Å"social group work represents â€Å"one method on the profession of social work†. He indicates that â€Å"social case work and community organization work† represent the other methods†. Trecker (1948, p. 7) believes that a definition of social group work is easier to describe than define. He sees it as a method that is comprised of â€Å"an orderly, systematic, planned way of working with people in groups† (Trecker, 1948 pp. 7-8). Trecker goes on to add that the â€Å"method is a conscious procedure, a designed means of achieving a goal† (1948, pp. 8). Additionally, he adds that it is â€Å"a method is a way of doing something, but underneath the doing we always discover an integrated arrangement of knowledge, understanding and principles.† (Trecker, 1948 pp. 8). Important to the understanding of group work in the context of social work placement is the family. Hartman and Laird (1983, p. 4) help to provide perspective in stating, â€Å"Human beings can be understood and helped only in the context of the intimate and powerful human systems of which they are a part, of which the family is one of the most important†. Smith (1995, p. 7) elaborates in stating, â€Å"there is no single, correct definition of family†¦. Rather, there are multiple definitions derived from particular theoretical perspectives.† She adds, â€Å"No one theory could satisfactorily represent the truth, but the many ways we look at families can help us to better understand them† (Smith, 1995, p. 7). Lastly, we shall take a look at Hartman and Laird (1983, p. 30), who tell us: â€Å"A family becomes a family when two or more individuals have decided they are a family, that in the intimate, here-and-now environment in which they gather, there is a sharing of emotional needs for closeness, of living space which is deemed â€Å"home,† and of those roles and tasks necessary for meeting the biological, social and psychological requirements of the individuals involved.† The preceding has been included to aid in rounding out the important external as well as internal elements that are factors in a case study concerning social work placement. A Study One of the most important, delicate, and critical functions carried on by social work is the placement of children in foster homes. As can be imagined, it represents an important as well as confidential process for the child as well as the placement team engaged in the process. Owing to that confidentiality, direct case files are not available, only synopsis of placement studies entailing the methodologies employed. Placement stories entail descriptions of external variables as indicated by basic placement overviews, but not the substance. The Bracknell Forest Borough Council (2005) provided an equitable resource in that it provides an outline of the procedures, and practice guidelines concerning foster placement arrangements made under private fostering regulations. Under the new regulations governing the placement of children, local authorities must be satisfied concerning the suitable nature of any proposed arrangement (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). If the foregoing is not the case, then said local authority must exercise its powers ether prohibit and or impose requirements prior to the child being fostered, along with any and all needed safeguards. In understanding the nuances of social work placement, certain descriptions and definitions of a few terms will aid in the understanding of the process. A privately fostered child represents any child under the age of 16 years of age, 18 if disabled, that is â€Å"cared for and accommodated for 28 consecutive days† or longer by someone other that the child’s parent, relative or someone provided with parental responsibility as provided by the parent for said instance (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). The carers responsibility entails an individual â€Å"who does not have parental responsibility for a particular child†, however does have care of the child (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). The definition indicates that the carer â€Å"may do what is reasonable† in terms of any, and all circumstances to safeguard, and or promote the welfare of that child (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). In terms of the duties of the local authority, wh ich represents an extremely important facet in the placement of a child, said local authority has a number of important duties to fulfill. These entail factors such as 1) publise advise and information, 2) ensure compliance with regulations, 3) carry out proper checks and visits, 4) ensure children under care is safeguarded in accordance to regulations, 5) ensure timely officer visits, 6) ensure visited children are seen alone and interviewed, 7) investigate al complaints, 8) inform parents or other authorized individuals of the child’s welfare, 9) ensure authority satisfaction with foster placement, 10) monitor compliance, 11) take appropriate action(s), 12) annual evaluations sent to Director of Children’s Services on placements and outcomes (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). The family placement social worker has the following responsibilities. First, they conduct the initial suitability evaluation of the proposed foster carers as well as all other household members (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). Next, the social work conducts an evaluation of the accommodations, and neighbourhood environment, and forms a close liaison with the social worker of the child concerning placement suitability and the potential of the placement in meeting the needs of the child as well as the likelihood of furthering the child’s welfare (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). With the preceding handled, the social worker then makes recommendations concerning the suitability of a meeting with all parties (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). If the foregoing steps have all concluded positively, the social worker’s ongoing responsibilities thus entail providing support, as well as assistance to the carer and others as appropriate and or necessary (B racknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). The preceding board steps represent the outline of the procedures in child placement. In a actual case, the steps as well as details are more defined. In an actual placement, the fieldwork staff conducts contacts with the parent, if such is the case, and the proposed foster carers (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). After all the relevant steps under the preceding have been seen to, the assessment is forwarded to the placement social worker, provided the foregoing has met requirements, and the placement process begins. The summary placement outline above brought into the equation the concept of social work from its broader perspective as brought forth by Harris (2002, p. 4) where he indicates that social policy is influenced by social workers who â€Å"implement legislation on behalf of the state†, thus exercising considerable influence in their roles as professionals†. The statement continues with â€Å"The law sets out the rights, duties and responsibilities of social workers, on the one hand, and of service users, on the other, in those socially problematic areas which have been accorded official recognition† (Harris, 2002, p.4). The preceding refers to the rules, procedures and requirements that must be adhered to by the placement agency, social workers and all other involved in the process. The aspect of group work is evident throughout the entire process, even before it begins. The local authority, placement agency, field workers, placement social worker, and child social worker all are engaged under the same regulated procedural network, even if no cases, and or placements are being handled. The regulations call for consistent, and constant monitoring of outstanding placement, thus requiring and causing the varied teams, and individuals to maintain contact. That ongoing working relationship represents the group work theory in practice and application. Trecker (1948, p. 7) described group work as â€Å"an orderly, systematic, planned way of working with people in groups†. To the preceding Trecker (1948, p. 8) added the â€Å"method is a conscious procedure, a designed means of achieving a goal†. McDermoot (2002, p. 3) adds to the foregoing in stating â€Å"Social workers, psychologists, community workers, youth workers and other service providers in the human services field spend much of their time working with groups—as staff members, as colleagues—using groups as intervention strategies†. The initial contact stage starts this collative group work process in the placement environment. The family placement social worker meets with the field social worker and discusses the proposed placement, obtaining a copy of the reports (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). The trust and competence issues are strong in that each step in the process relies heavily on the steps that preceded it. As a result, the systems theory represents the underpinning that binds the entire process. It also represents the underlying framework that constitutes how the rules, regulations and processes were devised and set up, as well as their ongoing modification as information, expertise and experience warrants. To review, the systems theory â€Å"investigates both the principles common to all complex entities† as well as â€Å" models which can be used to describe them† (Principia Cybernetica Web, 2007). Ludwig von Beralanffy explains that an important element of the systems theory â€Å"really refers to â€Å"a way of thinking about† (Hammond, 2003. p. 104). The systems theory’s interdisciplinary study concerning human life, along with social organization as represented by systems (Principia Cybernetica Web, 2007) represents the underpinning via which the described rules, procedures, regulations, follow up, monitoring, interview, research, and evaluation processes take place. The intial contacts as well as checks conducted by the placement social worker include interdepartmental checks on the proposed carer as well as information gleaned in the initial and follow up meetings and interviews (Bracknell Forest Borough Council, 2005). All of these steps as well as the ones that follow are elements of the systems theory, foundations of social work and group theory. If one steps back from the process and reviews the overall steps again, the relevance of the systems theory begins to take shape. It, the systems theory is â€Å" the transdisciplinary study of the abstract organization of phenomena†, in a context that is â€Å"independent of their substance, type, or spatial or temporal scale of existence† (Principia Cybernetica Web, 2007). The steps in the active procedure do take place in a temporal time frame. However, the functioning of the system of rules, regulations and procedures is always active, functioning and waiting to be utilized whether there is something engaging it or not. In this context, the foregoing precepts underpinning the systems theory gains clarity. McDermott (2002, p. 14) aids in bringing the group work concept into the preceding placement situation in her discussion of reciprocity. She states that it is reciprocity that represents a key element in the process as it sets the foundation for give and take as well as fosters trust, and cohesion within the group and this can thus be transferred to the outside world (McDermott, 2002, p. 14). The foregoing aptly describes the internal working mechanism of the group which at the investigation stage centers upon the placement social worker, and later pulls in the child’s social worker to complete the process. This continues with the evaluation of suitability concerning the carers as well as other family and household members. Through the utilization of the systems theory, all contingencies are evaluated and considered as a part of the whole, and extended whole. In reviewing the process in terms of the lessons learned, and potential for different application(s) in the future, is a prospect of evolution. Regardless of how correctly the system seems from the review of the procedural steps, there is always room for improvement as a result of the human factor, group work, systems theory and social work contexts. The potential for human error looms as the biggest failing point in that the entire procedural methodology is based, dependent and reliant upon human input, decisions, evaluation and observations. The central component in the process the placement social worker who makes the final determination based upon the salient inputs from all other quarters. And while it is true that the field work social worker as well as the child social worker could potential taint the input and results, it is the placement social worker that sorts and arrives at the determination. Thus, as the potential weak segment within the process, a phased step review whe reby a second placement social worker, or supervisor briefed at every turn, periodically steps in at any stage in the live process and makes observations, suggestions, and or calls for additional information to shore up the potential for error, and or critical factors needing closer attention, and or review. In addition, computer modeling of the effectiveness of the group members as an evaluation projection, would serve to alert the supervisory personnel to the potential for weak points in one of the tam member profile as a signal for either an additional check, and or review. Conclusion The seemingly distant facets of systems theory, group work, and social work as a cohesive aspect of placement requires the long view in order to see the fit of these elements up close. At the heart of these theoretical and practical applications is a child, which is and remains the focus of these aspects. Thus, with the well being and welfare of a vulnerable human being at stake, the processes, systems, regulations, rules and procedures can never be too precise, careful or correct, as the cost of error is incalculable. McDermott (2002, p. 1) says, â€Å"You have to have done a bit (of group work) yourself to understand the process.† In terms of the context of this examination, McDermoot (2002, p. 3) advises that â€Å"Social workers, psychologists, community workers, youth workers and other service providers in the human services field spend much of their time working with groups—as staff members, as colleagues—using groups as intervention strategies†. She adds, â€Å"group work is about building bonds between people which depend on the establishment of trusting relationships† (McDermott, 2002, p. 14). She further elaborates, â€Å"It is also about helping to forge connections between people who may be different or unlike one another. This latter activity—finding common ground across differences—is the more difficult, and it is here that group workers and participants require knowledge and skills† (McDermott, 2002, p. 14). The foregoing summarizes the interlinked aspects of the process that call for increased cohesion as well as improvement through modification, interpersonal relationships and skills, as well as understanding that the potential for error always exists, and can hide itself anywhere in the process. With that consideration uppermost in the minds of the participants, the occurrence is less likely to happen. Bibliography Alaszewski, A. and Manthorpe, J. (1990) Literature review: the New Right and the professions. Vol. 20. British Journal of Social Work Bracknell Forest Borough Council (2005) Private Fostering: Policy, Procedures Practice Guidance. Retrieved on 13 May 2007 from http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ Briggs, A. (1961) The welfare state in historical perspective. Vol. 2. No. 2. European Journal of Sociology Devon County Council (2007a) The Children Act 1989. Retrieved on 12 May 2007 from http://www.devon.gov.uk/index/cyps/fostering/foster_carer-2/foster-care-handbook/fos-law-relat-to-child/fos-law-relat-to-child2.htm Devon County Council (2007b) The Local Authority Fostering Service. Retrieved on 12 May 2007 from http://www.devon.gov.uk/index/cyps/fostering/foster_carer-2/foster-care-handbook/fostering-service.htm Hammond, D. (2003) The Science of Synthesis: Exploring the Social Implications of General Systems Theory. University Press of Colorado, Boulder, Co., United States Harris, J. (1999) State social work and social citizenship. Vol. 5. British Journal of Social Work, Harris, J. (2002) The Social Work Business. Routledge, Boulder, Co., United States Hartman, A., Laird, J. (1983) Family-Centered Social Work Practice. Free Press, New York, United States HMSO (1989) Children Act 1989. Retrieved on 12 May 2007 from http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1989/Ukpga_19890041_en_1.htm International Society for the Systems Sciences (2007) Home Page. Retrieved on 13 May 2007 from http://www.isss.org/ Johnson, T.J. (1972) Professions and Power. London: Macmillan. Ludwig von Bertalanffy, (1952) General System Theory: Foundations, Development, Applications. George Braziller, New York, United States Marshall, T.H. (1963) Citizenship and social class. Heinemann, London, United Kingdom Marshall, T.H. (1975) Social Policy in the Twentieth Century. Hutchinson, London, United Kingdom McDermott, F. (2002) Inside Group Work: A Guide to Reflective Practice. Allen Unwin, Crows Nest, New South Wales Principia Cybernetica Web (2007) What is Systems Theory? Retrieved on 12 May 2007 from http://pespmc1.vub.ac.be/SYSTHEOR.html Pinderhughes, E. (1997) Developing diversity competence in child welfare and permanency planning. In G. R. Anderson, A. S. Ryan, and B. R. Leashore. The Challenge of Permanency Planning in a Multicultural Society. Haworth, New York, United States Smith, S. (1995) Family theory and multicultural family studies. In Goldsby, B., Smith, S. Families in Multicultural Perspective. Guilford Press, New York, United States Smith, M. (2004) Gertrude Wilson and social group work. Retrieved on 12 May 2007 from http://www.infed.org/thinkers/wilson.htm Trecker, H. (1948) Social Group Work: Principles and Practices. Woman’s Press, New York, United States Wootton, B. (1959) Social Science and Social Pathology. Allen Unwin, London, United Kingdom

Globalization Has A Negative Impact on Global Health Essay -- Outsourci

Globalization is the development of an increasingly integrated global economy marked especially by free trade, free flow of capital, and the tapping of cheaper foreign labor markets (www.merriam-webster.com, 2012). Globalisation has had both, positive and negative effects on health. This essay will examine how globalisation has helped alcohol and tobacco trade around the world and in doing so affected health, how globalization has enabled the global community to combat these issues and an estimation of alcohol and tobacco consumption in different countries. This essay will also contain statistics from the World Health Organization based on alcohol and tobacco to illustrate the impact of globalisation. Alcohol: The question as to when alcohol was invented is still unknown, but the discovery of late Stone Age beer jugs is proof that alcohol/fermented beverages was used in times of the Neolithic period. (Patrick, 1952). Researchers use the years between 6000-4000 BCE as a starting point when examining the history of alcohol because the evidence is very clear. During this time, viticulture, the process of making wines was invented and the evidence lies in Egyptian pictographs. A vital moment in the history of wine was during 3000-2000 BCE when wine production and trade became a vital part of Mediterranean market and culture, ships carried enormous amounts of wine between the cities. Over the years the production of wine increased and it was during 500 ACE when wine production reaches Tang China along the Silk road (www.lmu.edu, 2012). The above explains the history of wine trade. Today wine can be found all over the world, it is a global product and the production of wine will only continue t o grow. By looking at Figure 2 –world wi... ... on the consumption of tobacco and smoking. There was great success by implanting this treaty for example: Ireland in 2004 banned smoking in public places, in 2006, Iran banned all types of tobacco advertising, in 2009, Turkey implemented a similar smoking ban and there are many other success stories related to the implementation of this treaty (www.who.int, 2011) Conclusion: As boundaries vanish because of globalisation, people and goods are allowed to move around the world easier which in doing so creates new challenges to global health. These cannot be combated by national governments alone but must be dealt with instead by international organizations and agreements. Globalisation has had a negative impact on health in terms of alcohol and cigarette trade but with the help of the global community, these problems can be successfully combated.

Is Doubt the Key to Knowledge Essay

As a student currently taking the International Baccalaureate, I constantly question the differences between the several areas of knowledge which I study. In a period where technology shows constant developments which trigger new discoveries and establish new facts, a critical outlook is essential in order to assess the validity and limitations of knowledge claims that arise within these fields. The twenty-first century has been called the age of information, where individuals have the ability to communicate freely and where knowledge becomes increasingly accessible. This seems to create an environment where knowledge prospers freely, and where doubt is gradually becoming extinct. However, many still argue that this new age of information bombardment creates a false sensation of certainty, and a series of unsupported convictions. Almost all areas of knowledge have a particular way of achieving values of truth, when that is possible whatsoever. This is directly linked to the ways of knowing in Theory of Knowledge, (emotion, perception, language and reason) as well as through the methods each field uses in its attempts to explain something, or to reach truth. Furthermore, it is important to recognize the several â€Å"paradigm shifts†, as in the term first coined by Thomas Kuhn[1], that change the perception and methods through which we acquire and interpret knowledge, as well as our definition of truth. Scientific certainty derives from countless experimentations and observations, and many debate whether scientific truth can ever be reached. History, on the other hand, is rigorously based on personal experience and interpretation of individual accounts, which allows for partiality and bias. This essay aims to evaluate and distinguish these two areas of knowledge, as well as determine the possible legitimacy and certainty that can be obtained from the knowledge claims produced in each field. Historical analysis is one the most controversial areas of knowledge, possibly due its extremely ambiguous and uncertain nature. Historians may disagree over the causes and consequences of nearly any historical event. It is important to remember that history is based on paradigms. As a result, it s almost impossible to find a particular period in history which has not been marked by disputes between historians, attempting to determine what actually happened. Thomas Carlyle, a 19th century historian and teacher at the University of Edinburgh, once stated that â€Å"The history of the world is but the biography of great men†, an allusion to The Great Man Theory, one of the many paradigms that have bent the shape of historical analysis. If we take the Second World War as an example, it seems as if the historical context of the war is seen through the actions of men such as Adolph Hitler, Joseph Stalin, Benito Mussolini and Winston Churchill. Another paradigm that can be observed in historical thought is the â€Å"Rise and Fall† concept, which tends to evaluate the history of empires and historical powers in terms of two phases: the ascent and decline. Examples of this paradigm can be found in many titles of history books: â€Å"The Rise and Fall of the Holy Roman Empire[2]†, â€Å"The Growth and Decline of the French Monarchy[3]†, â€Å"The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich[4]†, amongst others. Furthermore, as we analyze the history of the Second World War, we also find correlations with another historical paradigm, best exemplified by the famous proverb: â€Å"History is written by the victor†. The argument proposed is quite clear; those who triumph at War and reach power will inevitably influence and determine the course of history. In order to better illustrate this claim, two extracts follow, concerning the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941; the first, a broadcast by Winston Churchill to the British people, and finally a speech given by Adolph Hitler in Berlin, proclaiming the invasion of the USSR: â€Å"At 4 o’clock this morning Hitler attacked and invaded Russia. (†¦) A non-aggression treaty had been solemnly signed and was in force between the two countries. †¦) Then, suddenly, without declaration of war, German bombs rained down from the sky upon the Russian cities. (†¦) Hitler is a monster of wickedness†¦Ã¢â‚¬ [5] Winston Churchill, London, June 22 1941 â€Å"National Socialists! (†¦)The German people have never had hostile feelings toward the peoples of Russia (†¦ ) Germany has never attempted to spread its Natio nal Socialist worldview to Russia. Rather, the Jewish-Bolshevist rulers in Moscow have constantly attempted to subject us and the other European peoples to their rule. (†¦) which were particularly severe for Germans living in the affected nations. †¦) The purpose of this front is no longer the protection of the individual nations, but rather the safety of Europe, and therefore the salvation of everyone. May God help us in this battle. † Adolph Hitler, Berlin, June 25 1941[6] Analyzing both speeches, the difficulties of validating a historical account become quite evident, since there are always several perspectives concerning a specific historical event. As it relates to the ways of knowing, history is extremely dependent on perception and language, making it particularly hard for historians in hindsight to corroborate one account over the other and recognise its legitimacy. However, offering a personal perspective, I would most likely tend to support Churchill’s account of the 1941 Nazi occupation of the USSR. Yet, after exposing the uncertainties and ambiguity of historical knowledge, I begin to question whether or not my perception would differ, had Hitler and the Axis’ forces won the war. Unfortunately, it seems that would most likely be the case. Science is widely regarded as one of the most reliable fields of inquiry. When considering its potential for accurate and impartial conclusions, my initial response was to consider the scientific method the ideal, archetypal model of discovery. History seems simply too inseparable from human emotion and interpretation to produce a constantly indisputable account of facts, while science appears to be the most reliable and precise area of knowledge, solely based on rationality, empirical evidence and observable patterns. The scientific method, starting with a predicted hypothesis, followed by an experiment, collection and interpretation of data, which ultimately leads to a conclusion which could be repeated by any other scientist, gives the impression of being the perfect â€Å"truth formula†. On the other hand, when looking at the progress of science over time, it is important to realize that, together with the other areas of knowledge, real certainty can never be achieved in science. Even when scientific models survive repeated testing which fail to disprove them, they cannot be universally accepted as truths, but only provisional truths that are simply given functional certainty. The Caloric Theory[7], introduced by Lavoisier, was once a commonly accepted theory that was discredited in the 19th century by the mechanical theory of heat introduced by Carnot[8], which later on evolved into the science of thermodynamics. This supports the claim that scientific â€Å"truths† only exist on their specific â€Å"scope of applicability†[9]: â€Å"Science progresses through trial and error, mostly error. Every new theory or law must be skeptically and rigorously tested before acceptance. Most fail, and are swept under the rug, even before publication. Others, like the luminiferous ether[10], flourish for a while, then their inadequacies accumulate till they are intolerable, and they are quietly abandoned when something better comes along. Such mistakes will be found out. There’s always someone who will delight in exposing them.  Science progresses by making mistakes, correcting the mistakes, then moving on to other matters. If we stopped making mistakes, scientific progress would stop. † [11] In conclusion, it seems that uncertainty will always be an indissoluble part of every area of knowledge. We can also conclude that historical and scientific knowledge have an incredibly different way of explaining and interpreting things, mostly due to the ways of knowing, or according to which filter each area of knowledge attempts to express their ideas, and draw conclusions. While many may argue that the main purpose of these areas of knowledge is to explain and generate answers, some would say that their aim is inquiry, and their purpose is to generate questions. If we analyze these fields in hindsight, it is hard to dispute the claim that what we now consider hard facts are simply theories waiting to be discredited by the progress of our existence. Although at first I found myself to be disappointed with my findings, I stand corrected. The pursuit of knowledge, the quest for truth, is a never ending cycle of discoveries, and most importantly rediscoveries. Once we are certain of anything, we kill this cycle, we close the book, and the entire process loses significance and context. In the human drive for knowledge and higher awareness, as in the questions that generate the angst and sorrow of human consciousness, there can never be an unquestionable truth, an indisputable answer, for certainty is an illusion.