Poetry explication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Poetry explication - Essay Example War will not be without death or defeat. And the poem describes how sorrowful it is, that even if there is victory in war, there is no victory over death. For in war, there is violence and in violence there is death. The tone of the poem expresses sorrow and regret. Although the drums beat in victory, the drums also beats sorrow for the passing of the honorable men who sacrificed their very lives in order to gain victory in war. It is but sad for their families and comrades. Although everyone knows how difficult war can be in the end, there are still people willing to sacrifice themselves for the victory of their party. And with this, although there is victory, the family and friends of the passing comrades will always be a shadow of defeat. Yes, they are honored. Yes, the party thanks them for their sacrifice and their hand in victory. But never can they be brought back by the honor that is being given to them. The speaker of the poem tells the sad story of how he witnessed the fune ral procession of the war veterans. He is particularly struck by the fall of the father and son. With this, he begins to question the war, its purpose and its victory. He begins to lose his will to fight and his thirst for victory. He does not feel the passion soldiers feel when they begin fighting, but he feels the burden of guilt that he is still alive when there are a lot of his friends and comrades that have fallen. He feels the sorrow of the families who lost brothers, fathers and sons. And with this, he creates a picture of unfulfillment is disillusion from the war. Although they have gained the victory that they have fought hard for some time, he only felt the pain of being left while so many of his comrades are dead. Although there are drumbeats indicating victory, the drumbeats for him represent the loss that he has seen, felt and encountered during the period of war. He cannot move on so easily, and he cannot rejoice over their victory because all he sees is death all arou nd him. The picture created in the poem, where the moon shines over the procession indicates a sorrowful event despite a victorious winning. It shows that despite the victory, behind the pounding of drums indicating expressions of honor for the dead, there is still a darkness that covers the entire army. Yes, after darkness, there is light, but in this scenario, the speaker cannot find the hope of coming day but he wallows in the darkness of the bright yet ghastly moon. The moon represents how things may seem bright but it is only illuminated by the sun, when one cannot see the sun. In war, the death of the soldiers may be shown as honorable deaths, but it is a dark event, only illuminated by the thoughts of the entire army celebrating success. With the moon shining, the speaker begins to really that even if it is only illuminated by the absent sun, it is still steadfast and strong. With this, he begins to realize what he can for the dead and dying. He begins to let them go, and off er them the only gift he can give them with their deaths, that is his love and the thoughts of being able to gain victory. This indicates how soldiers can still move on while they see comrades die beside them. They gain strength with their deaths, pushing for victory, pushing for the win. Their comrades’ death is like the moon, it gives them the strength as the moon gives the nighttime some illumination. War will never be without sorrow. It is the twin sister of war. Death is always part of the war, and the only way the soldiers will be able to

Energy Drinks, the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Essay Example for Free

Energy Drinks, the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Essay Energy drinks, also known as power boosters, are soft drinks that contain nutrients and good flavor. The name of some energy drinks are Red Bull, Rockstar, and Monster. These drinks help improve and boost energy levels. People who drink power beverages experience decrease in stress, muscle strain, and fatigue. Power beverages also help improve speed and reaction. Energy drinks should remain on the market because they help athletes, workers, and students maintain performance, endurance and momentum. The most accepted energy drink is Red Bull. Red Bull contains caffeine and sodium. Caffeine acts as a pick-me-up, giving people the feeling of being awake and alert. Sodium helps to prevent the body from losing water. These ingredients work together to increase energy levels in the human body. Red Bull commercials often feature athletes, students, and workers drinking its products. Some people prefer to drink diet energy drinks. Red Bull is the only brand that offers power drinks in diet, making it the most popular energy drink on the market. Monster Energy, second in popularity, is highly favored by the adult community. It is the energy drink of choice for most athletes. Monster largely relies on a high dosage of sugar and caffeine to boost the users energy level. After drinking one can of Monster, users experience a feeling that is similar to drinking three cups of coffee. Rock Star is available in fourteen different flavors and is preferred by the younger generation. People that like to party prefer Rock Star because it prevents them from getting tired. The increased amounts of sugar and vitamins in Rock Star help prevent low energy. This gives party goers power to keep going. Energy drinks are good for people because they keep the human body alert. Most brands can be purchased in any store. Power drinks contain nutrients; good flavor, and increases energy levels. Many people seek energy boosters to improve metabolism and strengthen immune system when dieting. These drinks help people to stay alert in everyday life functions such as working, playing sports, and school. Red Bull and Monster both contain Vitamin B. Vitamin B is important to the body. It improves the function of red and white blood cells. Cells are instrumental in ridding the body of impurities and promoting healthy liver function. Energy drinks should not be taken off the market because they help athletes, workers, and students to maintain performance, providing momentum during times of stress and strain.

Spectrophotometry Techniques and Devices

Spectrophotometry Techniques and Devices I. INTRODUCTION Spectrophotometry Infrared Spectrophotometry is designed to identify or determine the sample by measuring absorption of infrared radiation of wave numbers in a region of 4,000 to 400 cm-1, at various wave numbers, when it passes through the sample. This method uses the property that the infrared absorption spectrum of a substance is Characteristic of its chemical structure. Infrared spectra are shown in charts drawn by plotting the wave numbers on the abscissa and the transmittances or absorbances on the ordinate. i. Spectrophotometer Spectrophotometry involves the use of a spectrophotometer. A spectrophotometer is a photometer (a device for measuring light intensity) that can measure intensity as a function of the color (or more specifically the wavelength) of light. Important features of spectrophotometers are spectral bandwidth and linear range of absorption measurement. Perhaps the most common application of spectrophotometers is the measurement of light absorption, but they can be designed to measure diffuse or specular reflectance. The use of spectrophotometers is not limited to studies in physics. They are also commonly used in other scientific fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. [2] They are widely used in many industries including printing and forensic examination. ii. Design There are two major classes of devices: single beam and double beam. A double beam spectrophotometer compares the light intensity between two light paths, one path containing a reference sample and the other the test sample. A single beam spectrophotometer measures the relative light intensity of the beam before and after a test sample is inserted. Although comparison measurements from double beam instruments are easier and more stable, single beam instruments can have a larger dynamic range and are optically simpler and more compact. Historically, spectrophotometers use a monochromator containing a diffraction grating to produce the analytical spectrum. There are also spectrophotometers that use arrays of photosensors. Especially for infrared spectrophotometers, there are spectrophotometers that use a Fourier transform technique to acquire the spectral information quicker in a technique called Fourier Transform Infrared The spectrophotometer quantitatively compares the fraction of light that passes through a reference solution and a test solution. Light from the source lamp is passed through a monochromator, which diffracts the light into a rainbow of wavelengths and outputs narrow bandwidths of this diffracted spectrum. Discrete frequencies are transmitted through the test sample. Then the intensity of the transmitted light is measured with a photodiode or other light sensor, and the transmittance value for this wavelength is then compared with the transmission through a reference sample. In short, the sequence of events in a spectrophotometer is as follows: The light source shines into a monochromator. A particular output wavelength is selected and beamed at the sample. The sample absorbs light. Many spectrophotometers must be calibrated by a procedure known as zeroing. The absorbency of a reference substance is set as a baseline value, so the absorbencies of all other substances are recorded relative to the initial zeroed substance. The spectrophotometer then displays% absorbency (the amount of light absorbed relative to the initial substance).[2] II. UV IR SPECTROPHOTOMETRY i. Ultraviolet spectrophotometry The most common spectrophotometers are used in the UV and visible regions of the spectrum and some of these instruments also operate into the near-infrared region as well. Visible region 400-700nm spectrophotometry is used extensively in colorimetry science. Ink manufacturers, printing companies, textiles vendors, and many more, need the data provided through colorimetry. They take readings in the region of every 10-20 nanometers along the visible region, and produce a spectral reflectance curve or a data stream for alternative presentations. These curves can be used to test a new batch of colorant to check if it makes a match to specifications e.g., iso printing standards. Traditional visual region spectrophotometers cannot detect if a colorant or the base material has fluorescence. This can make it difficult to manage color issues if for example one or more of the printing inks is fluorescent. Where a colorant contains fluorescence, a bi-spectral fluorescent spectrophotometer is used. There are two major setups for visual spectrum spectrophotometers, d/8 (spherical) and 0/45. The names are due to the geometry of the light source, observer and interior of the measurement chamber. Scientists use this machine to measure the amount of compounds in a sample. If the compound is more concentrated more light will be absorbed by the sample; within small ranges, the Beer-Lambert law holds and the absorbance between samples vary with concentration linearly. In the case of printing measurements two alternative settings are commonly used- without/with UV filter to control better the effect of UV brighteners within the paper stock. Samples are usually prepared in cuvettes; depending on the region of interest, they may be constructed of glass, plastic, or quartz ii. IR spectrophotometry Spectrophotometers designed for the main infrared region are quite different because of the technical requirements of measurement in that region. One major factor is the type of photosensors that are available for different spectral regions, but infrared measurement is also challenging because virtually everything emits IR light as thermal radiation, especially at wavelengths beyond about 5ÃŽ ¼m. Another complication is that quite a few materials such as glass and plastic absorb infrared light, making it incompatible as an optical medium. Ideal optical materials are salts, which do not absorb strongly. Samples for IR spectrophotometry may be smeared between two discs of potassium bromide or ground with potassium bromide and pressed into a pellet. Where aqueous solutions are to be measured, insoluble silver chloride is used to construct the cell. III. INFRARED Infrared (IR) radiation is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength between 700nm and 300Â µm, which equates to a frequency range between 1THz and 430THz—a span of more than three orders of magnitude. Its wavelength is longer (and the frequency lower) than that of visible light, but the wavelength is shorter (and the frequency higher) than that of terahertz radiation microwaves. Bright sunlight provides an irradiance of about 1kilowatt per square meter at sea level. Of this energy, 527 watts is infrared light, 445 watts is visible light, and 32 watts is ultraviolet light. The infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum covers the range from roughly 300 GHz (1 mm) to 400 THz (750 nm). It can be divided into three parts: Far-infrared, from 300 GHz (1 mm) to 30 THz (10 ÃŽ ¼m). The lower part of this range may also be called microwaves. This radiation is typically absorbed by so-called rotational modes in gas-phase molecules, by molecular motions in liquids, and by phonons in solids. The water in the Earths atmosphere absorbs so strongly in this range that it renders the atmosphere effectively opaque. However, there are certain wavelength ranges (windows) within the opaque range which allow partial transmission, and can be used for astronomy. The wavelength range from approximately 200 ÃŽ ¼m up to a few mm is often referred to as sub-millimeter in astronomy, reserving far infrared for wavelengths below 200 ÃŽ ¼m. Mid-infrared, from 30 to 120 THz (10 to 2.5 ÃŽ ¼m). Hot objects (black-body radiators) can radiate strongly in this range. It is absorbed by molecular Vibrations, where the different atoms in a molecule vibrate around their equilibrium positions. This range is sometimes called the fingerprint region since the mid-infrared absorption spectrum of a compound is very specific for that compound. Near-infrared, from 120 to 400 THz (2,500 to 750 nm). Physical processes that are relevant for this range are similar to those for visible light.[4] IV. Infrared spectroscopy (IR spectroscopy) is the subset of spectroscopy that deals with the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. It covers a range of techniques, the most common being a form of absorption spectroscopy. As with all spectroscopic techniques, it can be used to identify compounds or investigate sample composition. Infrared spectroscopy correlation tables are tabulated in the literature. A common laboratory instrument that uses this technique is an infrared spectrophotometer. i. Background and theory The infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum is divided into three regions; the near-, mid- and far- infrared, named for their relation to the visible spectrum. The far-infrared, approximately 400-10cm−1 (1000-30ÃŽ ¼m), lying adjacent to the microwave region, has low energy and may be used for rotational spectroscopy. The mid-infrared, approximately 4000-400cm−1 (30-2.5ÃŽ ¼m) may be used to study the fundamental vibrations and associated rotational-vibrational structure. The higher energy near-IR, approximately 14000-4000cm−1 (2.5-0.8ÃŽ ¼m) can excite overtone or harmonic vibrations. The names and classifications of these subregions are merely conventions. They are neither strict divisions nor based on exact molecular or electromagnetic properties. Infrared spectroscopy exploits the fact that molecules have specific frequencies at which they rotate or vibrate corresponding to discrete energy levels (vibrational modes). These resonant frequencies are determined by the shape of the molecular potential energy surfaces, the masses of the atoms and, by the associated vibronic coupling. In order for a vibrational mode in a molecule to be IR active, it must be associated with changes in the permanent dipole. In particular, in the Born-Oppenheimer and harmonic approximations, i.e. when the molecular Hamiltonian corresponding to the electronic ground state can be approximated by a harmonic oscillator in the neighborhood of the equilibrium molecular geometry, the resonant frequencies are determined by the normal modes corresponding to the molecular electronic ground state potential energy surface. Nevertheless, the resonant frequencies can be in a first approach related to the strength of the bond, and the mass of the atoms at either end of it. Thus, the frequency of the vibrations can be associated with a particular bond type. Simple diatomic molecules have only one bond, which may stretch. More complex molecules have many bonds, and vibrations can be conjugated, leading to infrared absorptions at characteristic frequencies that may be related to chemical groups. For example, the atoms in a CH2 group, commonly found in organic compounds can vibrate in six different ways: symmetrical and antisymmetrical stretching, scissoring, rocking, wagging and twisting: The infrared spectrum of a sample is collected by passing a beam of infrared light through the sample. Examination of the transmitted light reveals how much energy was absorbed at each wavelength. This can be done with a monochromatic beam, which changes in wavelength over time, or by using a Fourier transform instrument to measure all wavelengths at once. From this, a transmittance or absorbance spectrum can be produced, showing at which IR wavelengths the sample absorbs. Analysis of these absorption characteristics reveals details about the molecular structure of the sample. When the frequency of the IR is the same as the vibrational frequency of a bond, absorption occurs. This technique works almost exclusively on samples with covalent bonds. Simple spectra are obtained from samples with few IR active bonds and high levels of purity. More complex molecular structures lead to more absorption bands and more complex spectra. The technique has been used for the characterization of very complex mixtures. ii. Adjustment and Instrument Use a dispersive infrared spectrophotometer or a Fourier-transform infrared spectrophotometer. Before using the infrared spectrophotometer, adjust it as specified in the operating manual. The linearity of the absorbance between 20% and 80% of transmittance (%) should be within 1%. The reproducibility of the transmittance should be within 0.5% in two consecutive measurements. The reproducibility of wave number should be within 5 cm-1 at about 3,000 cm-1 and within 1 cm-1 at About 1,000 cm-1. In addition, adjust the instrument so that a spectrum exhibits absorptions at the wave numbers as indicated in the following figure when measurement is made on a polystyrene film (about 0.03 mm thick).[5] iii. Preparation of Sample According to an appropriate one of the methods below,Prepare the sample so that the transmittance of the most intense absorption bands should be within a range of 20 to 80%. For the optic plate, use sodium chloride, potassium bromide, or thallium iodide bromide. Potassium Bromide Disk Method Place 1 to 2 mg of a solid sample and 100 to 200 mg of dried potassium bromide for infrared spectrophotometry into an Agate mortar, quickly reduce to fine particles protecting from moisture, mix Completely, and transfer into a die. Press the surface of the disk at 500 to 1,000 N/cm2 under reduced pressure of not more than 0.7 kPa for 5 to 8 minutes, and use this disk for the measurement. Solution Method Prepare a solution of the solid or liquid sample in the Specified solvent, inject the solution into a fixed cell for liquid, and use this cell for the measurement. Place the similar cell containing the same solvent for the Compensation beam. The thickness of the fixed cell is generally 0.1 mm or 0.5 mm. Paste Method Crush finely a solid sample and knead well with liquid Paraffin in the mortar. Hold the paste between two optic plates without any air gap, and measure. Liquid Film Method Hold 1 to 2 drops of liquid sample as a capillary film Held between two optic plates, and measure the liquid layer between the plates. If it is necessary to thicken the liquid layer, place rings of aluminum foil or a similar material between the two optic plates so that the liquid sample lies between the plates. Thin Film Method Dissolve the sample in the specified solvent, and apply it to one optic plate. Evaporate the solvent by drying with hot air, and measure the thin film adhered on the plate. If the sample is a film with a thickness of not more than 0.02 mm, measure the film just as it is. Gas Sample Measurement Put the sample gas in a gas cell with a light Path of 5 to 10 cm in length, previously evacuated, under pressure specified in the individual monograph, and measure. A long cell with the light path of not shorter than 1 m is also used if necessary. iv. Conventional method A beam of infrared light is produced and split into two separate beams. One is passed through the sample, the other passed through a reference which is often the substance the sample is dissolved in. The beams are both reflected back towards a detector, however first they pass through a splitter which quickly alternates which of the two beams enters the detector. The two signals are then compared and a printout is obtained. A reference is used for two reasons: This prevents fluctuations in the output of the source affecting the data This allows the effects of the solvent to be cancelled out (the reference is usually a pure form of the solvent the sample is in) v. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a measurement technique for collecting infrared spectra. Instead of recording the amount of energy absorbed when the frequency of the infra-red light is varied (monochromator), the IR light is guided through an interferometer. After passing through the sample, the measured signal is the interferogram. Performing a Fourier transform on this signal data results in a spectrum identical to that from conventional (dispersive) infrared spectroscopy. FTIR spectrometers are cheaper than conventional spectrometers because building an interferometer is easier than the fabrication of a monochromator. In addition, measurement of a single spectrum is faster for the FTIR technique because the information at all frequencies is collected simultaneously. This allows multiple samples to be collected and averaged together resulting in an improvement in sensitivity. Virtually all modern infrared spectrometers are FTIR instruments. Summary of absorptions of bonds in organic molecules vi. Uses and applications Infrared spectroscopy is widely used in both research and industry as a simple and reliable technique for measurement, quality control and dynamic measurement. It is of especial use in forensic analysis in both criminal and civil cases, enabling identification of polymer degradation for example. It is perhaps the most widely used method of applied spectroscopy.[citation needed] The instruments are now small, and can be transported, even for use in field trials. With increasing technology in computer filtering and manipulation of the results, samples in solution can now be measured accurately (water produces a broad absorbance across the range of interest, and thus renders the spectra unreadable without this computer treatment). Some instruments will also automatically tell you what substance is being measured from a store of thousands of reference spectra held in storage. By measuring at a specific frequency over time, changes in the character or quantity of a particular bond can be measured. This is especially useful in measuring the degree of polymerization in polymer manufacture. Modern research instruments can take infrared measurements across the whole range of interest as frequently as 32 times a second. This can be done whilst simultaneous measurements are made using other techniques. This makes the observations of chemical reactions and processes quicker and more accurate. Techniques have been developed to assess the quality of tea-leaves using infrared spectroscopy. This will mean that highly trained experts (also called noses) can be used more sparingly, at a significant cost saving. Infrared spectroscopy has been highly successful for applications in both organic and inorganic chemistry. Infrared spectroscopy has also been successfully utilized in the field of semiconductor microelectronics[8]: for example, infrared spectroscopy can be applied to semiconductors like silicon, gallium arsenide, gallium nitride, zinc selenide, amorphous silicon, silicon nitride, etc. V. USES IN ORGANIC A technique to identify materials including organic polymers. An infrared spectrometer directs infrared radiation through a sample and records the relative amount of energy absorbed by the sample as a function of the wavelength or frequency of the infrared radiation. The method is applicable particularly to organic materials, because the vibrational frequencies of the constituent groups within the molecules coincide with the electromagnetic frequencies of the infrared radiation. Therefore, the infrared radiation is selectively absorbed by the material to produce an absorption spectrum. The spectrum produced is compared with correlation spectra from known substances. VI. SPECTRORADIOMETERS Spectroradiometers, which operate almost like the visible region spectrophotometers, are designed to measure the spectral density of illuminants in order to evaluate and categorize lighting for sales by the manufacturer, or for the customers to confirm the lamp they decided to purchase is within their specifications. Components: The light source shines onto or through the sample. The sample transmits or reflects light. The detector detects how much light was reflected from or transmitted through the sample. The detector then converts how much light the sample transmitted or reflected into a number. CONCLUSION In this topic which is infrared spectrophotometry I have introduced what is spectrophotometry. And it is used in a device called spectrophotometer which is explained in the above thesis. Followed on single beam spectrophotometer is also explained with its design working. Spectrophotometry is generally of two types UV IR spectrophotometry, UV spectrophotometry is explained in short but IR spectrophotometry is explained briefly. The word INFRARED is explained i.e. what it means, infrared region is explained in EM radiation. In EM spectrum there comes a topic infrared spectroscopy which is explained briefly with its background theory. Its preparation of sample followed by conventional method of it. There is other phenomenon called FITR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) is a measurement technique for collecting infrared spectra. FTIR spectrometers are cheaper than conventional spectrometers. Uses application is also explained in the above thesis. At last but not the least its use in organic is explained. The idea of Spectroradiometers is also given, which operate almost like the visible region spectrophotometers. This is end of the conclusion of my thesis infrared spectrophotometry.

Losing Faith Young Goodman Brown Essays -- essays papers

Losing Faith Young Goodman Brown Throughout the short story "Young Goodman Brown," written by Nathaniel Hawthorne the main character is searching for Faith in what appears to be an increasingly corrupt world. Faith takes on a double meaning in this story, for Faith is used both as the name of Young Goodman Brown's pretty young wife and the spiritual devotion of Young Goodman Brown to the Puritan Faith. The dual usage of Faith in this short story, along with its theme of devil worship amongst Puritan society draws the reader in, and leaves the story imprinted on his brain for a long time to come. As the story opens, Young Goodman Brown is about to enter the forest to partake upon an "evil purpose." He leaves behind his sweet, pretty, young wife of three months, who wears pretty pink ribbons in her hair, urging her to "Say thy prayers, dear Faith, and go to bed at dusk, and no harm will come to thee" (p. 102). Young Goodman Brown is hesitant about leaving his Faith behind to go on such an errand, to venture into the forest where "the devil himself could be at my very elbow!" (p. 103). Once in the forest, Young Goodman Brown is met with "the figure of a man, in grave and decent attire, seated at the foot of an old tree" (p. 103). When questioned as to why he has dallied in meeting this figure, Young Goodman Brown replies "Faith kept me back awhile" (p. 103). In the literal sense, Young Goodman Brown's pretty young wife delayed him from his meeting with the dark figure by begging him to "put off his journey until sunrise and sleep in his own bed to-night" (p. 103). In a symbolic sense, Young Goodman Brown's devotion to all that is just in the world has made him hesitant to enter the corrupt reality of the forest. ... ...ditate his sermon, and Goody Cloyse catechizing a little girl. He spies the head of Faith, with the pink ribbons, gazing anxiously forth, and bursting into such joy at the sight of him that she skipped along the street and almost kissed her husband before the whole village" (p. 111). Young Goodman Brown looks sternly and sadly into her face, and passes on without a greeting. "Had Young Goodman Brown fallen asleep in the forest and only dreamed a wild dream of a witch-meeting?" (p. 112). It does not matter, for Young Goodman Brown becomes "a stern, a sad, a darkly meditative, a distrustful, if not a desperate man" (p. 111). He shrinks from the bosom of Faith, and he dies a "hoary corpse" (p. 111). It does not matter that Young Goodman Brown rejected the Devil at his fiery altar that night in the forest. The Devil has claimed his Faith in humanity in another way. Losing Faith Young Goodman Brown Essays -- essays papers Losing Faith Young Goodman Brown Throughout the short story "Young Goodman Brown," written by Nathaniel Hawthorne the main character is searching for Faith in what appears to be an increasingly corrupt world. Faith takes on a double meaning in this story, for Faith is used both as the name of Young Goodman Brown's pretty young wife and the spiritual devotion of Young Goodman Brown to the Puritan Faith. The dual usage of Faith in this short story, along with its theme of devil worship amongst Puritan society draws the reader in, and leaves the story imprinted on his brain for a long time to come. As the story opens, Young Goodman Brown is about to enter the forest to partake upon an "evil purpose." He leaves behind his sweet, pretty, young wife of three months, who wears pretty pink ribbons in her hair, urging her to "Say thy prayers, dear Faith, and go to bed at dusk, and no harm will come to thee" (p. 102). Young Goodman Brown is hesitant about leaving his Faith behind to go on such an errand, to venture into the forest where "the devil himself could be at my very elbow!" (p. 103). Once in the forest, Young Goodman Brown is met with "the figure of a man, in grave and decent attire, seated at the foot of an old tree" (p. 103). When questioned as to why he has dallied in meeting this figure, Young Goodman Brown replies "Faith kept me back awhile" (p. 103). In the literal sense, Young Goodman Brown's pretty young wife delayed him from his meeting with the dark figure by begging him to "put off his journey until sunrise and sleep in his own bed to-night" (p. 103). In a symbolic sense, Young Goodman Brown's devotion to all that is just in the world has made him hesitant to enter the corrupt reality of the forest. ... ...ditate his sermon, and Goody Cloyse catechizing a little girl. He spies the head of Faith, with the pink ribbons, gazing anxiously forth, and bursting into such joy at the sight of him that she skipped along the street and almost kissed her husband before the whole village" (p. 111). Young Goodman Brown looks sternly and sadly into her face, and passes on without a greeting. "Had Young Goodman Brown fallen asleep in the forest and only dreamed a wild dream of a witch-meeting?" (p. 112). It does not matter, for Young Goodman Brown becomes "a stern, a sad, a darkly meditative, a distrustful, if not a desperate man" (p. 111). He shrinks from the bosom of Faith, and he dies a "hoary corpse" (p. 111). It does not matter that Young Goodman Brown rejected the Devil at his fiery altar that night in the forest. The Devil has claimed his Faith in humanity in another way.

Delivery of Human Service Program

Delivery of Human Services Program Jakiya Burse BSHS 471 Deborah Machold October 28, 2012 Delivery of Human Services Program Many people rely on human service programs. This paper will discuss the delivery of  human service program for men, women, and teenagers. There are various men, women, and teenagers that need help with reproductive health care education. Planned Parenthood provides sex education to men, women, and teenagers. Planned Parenthood acts as an advocate for their clients. Planned ParenthoodAccording to  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Planned Parenthood†Ã‚  (2012),  Ã¢â‚¬Å"for nearly 100 years, Planned Parenthood has promoted a commonsense approach to women’s health and well-being, based on respect for each individual’s right to make informed, independent decisions about health, sex, and family planning† (Planned Parenthood). Planned Parenthood healthcare providers offer men and women affordable medical care. How Services are Delivered Planned Parenthood has be en able to be around for so long because this organization provides their clients with trustful healthcare services and information.According to  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Planned Parenthood†Ã‚  (2012), services are delivered to clients through â€Å"preventive, primary care, which helps prevent unintended pregnancies through contraception, reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections through testing and treatment, and screen for cervical and other cancers. Caring physicians, nurse practitioners, and other staff take time to talk with clients, encouraging them to ask questions in an environment that millions have grown to trust (Planned Parenthood). Planned Parenthood offers supports group to clients who have had an STD before or who have terminated a pregnancy in the past.Depending on the location the services offered by Planned Parenthood are abortions, birth control, emergency contraception (morning after pill), general health care, HIV testing, LGBT services, men’s health c are, pregnancy testing and services, STD testing, treatment and vaccines, and women’s health care   (â€Å"Planned Parenthood†,  2012). Some of the  services offered require an appointment to be set up. Others can be seen on a walk-in basis. Educating According to  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Planned Parenthood†Ã‚  (2012),  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Planned Parenthood known for provided reproductive services to their clients.Planned Parenthood offers easily understandable and  honest data that allow women, men, teens, and families to make informed choices and lead healthy lives. Planned Parenthood is proud of its very important role in providing young people with honest sexuality and relationship information in classrooms and online to help reduce the nation’s disturbingly high rates of teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Nearly 1. 2 million youths and adults participate in Planned Parenthood educational programs every year (Planned Parenthood). EvaluationAccording to  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Planned Parenthood Of New Mexico†Ã‚  (2012),   medical services are provided in accordance with high medical standards set forth by the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and are closely monitored by the Medical Director. The affiliate is evaluated on a regular basis by PPFA to ensure that PPNM meets all standards for accreditation. PPNM went through this process in April 2007 and received a four-year accreditation. PPNM's Standard and Guidelines as well as other, manuals were recommended or used as models for other affiliates (Our History). Conclusion Planned Parenthood has been around for 95 years.In those 95 years this human services program has continued to provide clients with reliable healthcare that the client can trust. Planned Parenthood advocates for public policies to make sure clients have access to the services provided. Planned Parenthood also provides education to men, women, and teenagers around the world about human sexuality. References P lanned Parenthood. (2012). Retrieved on October 28, 2012 from http://www. plannedparenthood. org/about-us/who-we-are-4648. htm Planned Parenthood of New Mexico. (2012). Retrieved October 28, 2012 from http://www. plannedparenthood. org/new-mexico/our-history-3150. htm

Lou Gehrig essays

Lou Gehrig essays Lou Gehrig was born and raised in New York City, the son of German immigrant parents. His full name was Henry Louis Gehrig. After graduating from high school, he attended Columbia University where he became a football and baseball star. Lou's father directed him to becoming a pro baseball player. He became sick and needed on operation, but there was no money for doctors and hospital expenses in the family budget, so young Lou quickly capitalized on his baseball skills. He accepted an offer from a scout to sign a contract with the New York Yankees, for $ 1,500 in cash as a bonus. Lou dropped out of college to play in the minor leagues and gain some experience until the Yankees needed him. Gehrig was 22 when he became a big league rookie. He sat on the bench until one day in June in the 1925 season when he finally broke into the Yankees' line up as a first baseman. It happened because the team's veteran first baseman couldn't play because of a sever headache. He stayed first baseman for fourteen seasons, five thousand eighty-two playing days, he played a total of two thousand, one hundred and thirty major league games. It was a record that will never be broken or even equaled. To create that unbelievable endurance, feat, strong and powerful Lou Gehrig nicknamed "The Iron Horse," played in every one of the two thousand, one hundred and thirty consecutive games, even though he was beaned three times, had fingers broken ten times, suffered fractured toes, torn muscles, a wrenched shoulder, a back injury, chipped elbows, and the pain of several lumbago attacks. Yet, in every contest of that incredibly long playing period he played with all the enthusiasm of a kid breaking into the big leagues. During that streak of 2,130 consecutive games "The Iron Horse" performed other astonishing feats. He became the first in the 20th century to hit four consecutive home runs in a nine-inning ga...

Muslim perceptions on Islam

Muslim perceptions on Islam Introduction Muslims are the second largest religious community in the world after the Catholics (Saenz, 2005). Even though they are racially and ethnically diverse, they have taken on to themselves various connotations and there have been various perceptions regarding how Muslims are viewed across the world.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Muslim perceptions on Islam specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In the same respect, it is also evident that different Muslims in different countries behave differently depending on the cultural practices surrounding them. This therefore means that they perceive the Islamic teachings differently and that the practice is not the same all Muslims. In some countries for example, it is mandatory for women to wear a veil while in other countries, this is not compulsory (Curtis, 2006). Going by the foregoing arguments, in spite of them being deeply rooted in their faith, Muslims f rom different parts of the world view Islam differently. This does not however mean that their practices are dwindling; it only illustrates that faith and religion are as good as one’s beliefs and perceptions. As such, the essay below is an attempt to analyze the teachings of Islam and thereafter, illustrate how they are interpreted and perceived by different Muslims from different countries. Islam: Beliefs and Practices The Islamic religion is characterized by many beliefs and practices that have to be adhered to by members of this religious group. According to Saenz (2005), there are over one billion Muslims living in the European countries and in other continents like Asia and North Africa. In addition, there are approximately 40 Muslim dominated countries in the world (Saenz, 2005). Even though the various practices of Islam are different from one country to another, nonetheless, we do have basic fundamental elements and teaching that they all look up to. The basic teachi ngs of Islam revolve around Prophet Muhammad as the teachings were first revealed to him in the (Saenz, 2005). Prophet Muhammad later collected these teachings that he had received and compiled them into the Holy Quran. In order to get guidance and teachings in their day- to- day lives, the Quran is a very important asset of the Muslim faithful since they rely on it as a basis for leading an Islamic way of life, according to the teachings of Allah, though Prophet Muhammad.Advertising Looking for research paper on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Besides being a prophet who role was to gather the materials in the Quran, Prophet Muhammad lived a life that was exemplary and that deserves to be emulated by all the Muslims. Five Pillars of Islam Every Muslim is required to adhere to the Islamic teachings which require that they follow the five pillars of Islam. The first of these pillars states that every Muslim has to confess his/her faith. In this case, all Muslims supposed to declare that besides Allah, there are no other gods (Esposito, 1998). This means that the Muslims are required to declare and acknowledge the monopolistic nature of the religion. Under the teachings of Islam, Muslims have to observe the second pillar of Islam which is prayer. In this case, they are required and instructed to pray at certain times of the day and in total, ensure that they pray at least five times a day. The sequence of the prayer guideline begins with the azan prayer which is a call for all Muslims to come together and pray. They are then required to follow an order in the recitation and proclaiming of messages in the Quran (Esposito, 1998). This entails taking successive bows while facing towards the city of Mecca, the holy land. In addition, Muslims are also to offer an amount of tax which is the equivalent of an offering that is dedicated for the poor and the needy among the Muslim members of the society. This particular pillar is compulsory to all Muslims, as opposed to being voluntary. The fourth pillar is observing the Holy Month of Ramadan through fasting from sunrise to sunset, based on the sayings of the lunar calendar. During this period, Muslims area also required to reflect on their lives in regards to the wealth they have attained or the health that they have been endowed with. They are then required to look out for the less fortunate in the society (Esposito, 1998). The last pillar that the Muslim faithful are supposed to observe according to their teachings is the pillar of pilgrimage where they are required to visit the holy city of Mecca in pilgrimage at least once in their entire lifetime. Interpretations of the Islamic teachings across the world The above teachings have however been interpreted differently by Muslims from different countries thus forming different sects in the Muslim community. This means that the practices by each sect differ vastly f rom those of other sects. Some of the different sects that have emerged in Islam include the Sunni and Shiite Muslims. The Sunni Muslims are the majority in the Muslim world (Armstrong, 2000).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Muslim perceptions on Islam specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More On the other hand, the Shia are a group of Muslims who practice a more decentralized type of Islam than the Sunni.The Sunni are of the view that it is not necessary to have one authoritarian religious leader but deem it important to rely on scholars that have been widely educated and on the profound religious texts (Denny, 2006). With regard to the interpretation of the Quran, the Sunni are more literal in comparison with the Shia. On the other hand, the Shia rely too much on their religious leaders and view them as people that have been divinely elected by God to help them in their spiritual growth especially in the analysis of the Quran. In the same regard, their views on Islamic teachings are more authoritarian than communitarian. In countries like the United States can be categorized as being liberal not in the sense that they do not observes the Islamic teachings but due to the fact they are entirely the type that do not need guidance or constant contact with their religious leaders in order to know what is required of them (Denny, 2006). The same applies to other developed countries like the United Kingdom, Russia and Germany. However, in countries like Saudi Arabia, Indonesia and Nigeria, the Muslims are more intertwined with their leaders and this is reflected even in their religious practices and in their conservative nature. They tend to keenly uphold the prayer times with constant visits to the mosques for spiritual nourishment. Another sect that has emerged in the same aspect is the Sufi’s who are deemed to be a different group of Muslims that perceive Islamic teachings in a different manner. They interpret the Islamic teachings as symbols and allegories and thus practice very mystic religious activities as compared to the latter groups (Denny, 2006). In order to meet the qualities and characteristics that Muhammad showcased during his time, the Sufi’s have chosen to neglect their natural being by not recognizing material wealth and in order for them to be more committed on the love and meditation of God. In a survey that was recently conducted in the Muslim community on how they view Islam and how they practice it in their lives, the results were varied especially when compared with Muslims from other countries (Saenz, 2005).Advertising Looking for research paper on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In spite of the fact that all the participants agreed on the core commitment to God, nonetheless, they differed in their level of commitment, openness to certain Islam teachings and interpretations in regards to their faith and in acceptance of the above sects as mentioned earlier. In the Middle East and the North African countries there was a very high belief in God and the prophet Muhammad followed by the Asian countries (Saenz, 2005). Central Asia and sub-Saharan Africa were ranked fourth and fifth respectively with Europe being the last of the group with 85%. Through the survey, it emerged that most of the Muslims in the countries where Islam was ranked as first and second largest religion regarded it as a very important aspect of faith and by extension, their lives. However, in the United States, Only 69% of the Muslims regarded their faith very important to them (Saenz, 2005). Nonetheless, in some nations that have only recently emerged communism like Russia, Muslims have very little concerns as regards their teachings and what their religion requires of them. It was noted in the survey that not more than half of the Muslims in the county quoted religion as important to their lives. The same characteristic was also predominant in the Balkans. However, 67% of the Muslims who took part in the survey in Turkey stated that to them religion was very important (Saenz, 2005). These religious differences as highlighted above were also mainly characterized by the difference in age groups with those who are older being more deeply rooted in their religion than those that are younger. It was also noted that there was gender disparity on how the Islamic faith and teachings were perceived among the different countries. In central and south Asia, majority of the women have been quoted to have never attended a mosque. It was also noted that in countries where there is strict compliance with the Muslim teachings and laws like in Saudi Arabia , Morocco, and majority of t he countries in the Middle East and northern Africa, there have been very poor statistics of women attending prayers at the mosque(Nasr, 2003). This is especially due to the fact that the cultural norms of the people in these countries do not permit women to be liberal in certain religious activities. However, women still actively participate in the daily rituals or prayers required of them though not in the limelight as men do. Regarding the element of holy war as a teaching in the Islamic faith, there is a very wide disparity on the level of disagreement. While majority of the Muslims in the Middle East countries and part of northern Africa are strong believers in the holy war, their counterparts in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom seem to be against it (Nasr, 2003). They state that in most cases the holy war end up affecting innocent civilians other than those it was aimed at fighting. As such, it is not fair and rightly targeted (Curtis, 2006). On the othe r hand, Muslims from Saudi Arabia and Morocco are strong advocates for the jihad war, stating that the holy war is aimed at helping to salvage the requirements of the Islamic faith. However, it is also clearly depicted that holy war is not terrorism.To most of the Muslims however, holy war is acceptable. In contrast, Muslims from the south and central Asian countries like India are characterized by low levels of commitment to their religion in terms of the practices that they are obligated to fulfill (Bloom Blair, 2000). These are among others, veiling of the women and conducting prayers and rituals from time to time. However, those in Turkey have a high level of commitment and they strive to practice their religious duties as required of them. The women are very keen on practices like veiling. In some other countries for instance, veiling is not a compulsory law and there are no clearly stipulated Islamic laws in place. In the United States for instance, there are no laws that see m to support Islamic teachings at all.In fact Islam is viewed as a terrorist religion especially after the effects of the September 11th attacks (Armstrong, 2000). In Germany, although Islam is viewed in an important dimension, it is not compulsory that women veil and there are no laws to reinforce the practice. In the middle eastern countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia and many more, women are required to strictly comply with the shariah laws and thus it is a rule that they should veil their heads at all times without any compromise. Conclusion Islam is ranked as the second largest religion in the world, after Catholicism. In addition, nearly 40 countries in the world are regarded as being predominantly Islam. Regardless of their cultural settings location, Muslims across the world are guided by the five basic beliefs and practices. For example, all Muslims recognize Prophet Muhammad as the holy messenger of Allah, and that there is no other god but Allah. We also have five basic pil lar of the Islamic faith that is common among all Muslims. However, the interpretations of the Islamic faith across the world differ, based on cultural backgrounds and religious sects. For example, whereas the Shia relies a lot on the teachings of religious leaders, on the other hand, the Sunni are a bid liberal on this issue. Also, the older generation in Islam is very much attached to their faith, while the younger generation is not so much attached to it. The holy war is also viewed differently by Muslims from various parts of the word. Reference List Armstrong, K. (2000). Islam: A Short History. New York: Modern Library. Bloom, J., Blair, S. (2000). Islam: A Thousand Years of Faith and Power. New York: TV Books. Curtis, E. E. (2006). Black Muslim Religion in the Nation of Islam, 1960–1975. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press. Denny, F. M. (2006). An Introduction to Islam. 3rd ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. Esposito, J. (1998). Islam the Straight P ath. 3rd ed. Oxford, U.K.: Oxford University Press. Nasr, S, H. (2003). Islam: Religion, History, and Civilization. San Francisco: Harper San Francisco. Saenz, R. (2005). The Changing Demographics of Roman Catholics. Retrieved from https://www.prb.org/thechangingdemographicsofromancatholics/

Simulation Reflection Essays

Simulation Reflection Essays Simulation Reflection Paper Simulation Reflection Paper This paper is a reflection on three simulations as each relates to strategic planning. The first simulation, â€Å"Thinking Strategically,† highlights the importance of environmental scanning. The second simulation, â€Å"Developing Grand Strategies,† challenged decisions made for a company which lead to effective strategy formulation and choices. The third simulation, â€Å"Creating a Strategic Road Map,† provided a simulated experience of how to build a strategic roadmap focusing on the importance and effectiveness of formulating action plans and goals. This reflective approach will convey the lessons learned relative to the importance and effectiveness of the key learning points obtained through each simulation. The challenges faced by strategic planners will be discussed from the discoveries of lessons learned in the three simulations. Environmental scanning provides the opportunity for detailed insight for a company’s current position as well as desired position in the industry. Scanning discoveries provide the company with awareness to warnings signs of external conditions facing competitors and the economy. As shown in the simulation, â€Å"Thinking Strategically,† environmental scanning encourages a company to evaluate and promote an appropriate vision and an improved sense of direction for all stakeholders. The information gathered in an environmental scan, also provides the company with future trends data. This discovery information can warn company officials of the rising or declining of trends on the horizon. The simulation used a SWOT analysis as an effective tool of environmental scanning. An analysis of strengths and weaknesses is obtained through internal sources, whereas, opportunities and threats information is obtained externally. All SWOT factors are critical for the company’s successful strategy. Analyses of each including a matched pair analysis are essential in determining the future prospects of the given industry and developing a specific industry niche. In the simulation, the bike company, BJ’s, built a business on baby boomers. BJ’s brand image is geared toward male extreme bikers. However, women comprise almost half of the biking industry. BJ’s identify key strategy concepts by the use of SWOT analysis to achieve the long-term vision of becoming the top ranking specialty bicycle retailer in terms of revenue in the next five years. The approach to increase marketing efforts towards women, including hiring female consultants, is the most logical in a global environment where women’s sports and athleticism is gaining in popularity. Scanning one’s environment creates a clearer global portrait and significantly impacts all decisions necessary for optimal business outcomes. Throughout the simulation, the primary lesson learned was the value of using various sources of information and implications that such can have on outcomes of strategic planning. BJ’s and any given company can benefit through using material pertaining to statistical studies in relation to historical data gained from previous years of operation reports. For example, industry, population, age, race, and geographic areas can separate this information and locations to assist with making well-informed decisions. The results of such analysis can provide a clear direction necessary for maximizing strategic plan designs. This evaluation will aid companies in understanding how to best hedge against competing practices by knowing the appropriate target audience and building company opportunities designed richly to attract such consumers, clients and employees. â€Å"The two most prominent sources of competitive advantage can be found in the businesss cost structure and its ability to differentiate the business from competitors,† (Pearce and Robinson, Ch. 7). Without environmental scanning, strategic planners will offer information to businesses blindly. Mere internal information can be beneficial for company cultural concerns, but the external information can prove more beneficial based on industry standards. The expense of the industrial analysis reports may seem extravagant, but when exercised properly are very valuable for companies looking to surpass competition. This simulation implies a one time evaluation suits the company, but as Sam Harrison states in his article about Finding Ideas that Make a Difference, Never stop creating. Never stop exploring. Never stop appreciating, (Journal of Business Strategy, 2008). The second simulation, â€Å"Developing Grand Strategies,† was focused on the development of a grand strategy for a company. A lesson learned has been the ability to apply analytic tools and concepts to aid in the development of strategic planning. The toy company, Oz, was the third largest toy manufacturing company in the country. The company reported $3. 5 billion in revenue. Industry reports viewed at Oz predicted that the sales curves were flattening. Oz decided to take a proactive approach to develop a grand strategy that was suitable to the industry reports. â€Å"Strategies, that involve adoption of new technologies, also have sweet spots. Connecting with the right strategy at the right time supported with the right resources will produce the best possible results,† (Oliver, 2002). Oz needs a proactive strategic response to an industry situation impacted by consolidation among manufacturers. Asian imports that have led to an influx of cheap toys and changes in trends such as the increasing purchase power of consumers. The appropriate Grand strategies need to be selected based on the firm’s quadrant positioning in the Grand strategy cluster. A firm’s quadrant position is identified using its competitive position and the market’s growth capability. The firm’s competitive position can be identified using a SWOT matrix and industry report. The industry report also can reveal whether the market is a slow growth or rapid growth market. The selected Grand Strategies based on the firm’s quadrant positioning helps in selecting the correct action plan to meeting the firm’s goals. If the strategies are incorrect, the firm’s action plans may not be accurate and may not help the firm meeting its goals. Developing a vision and determining what is critical for the business will aid in making key business decisions. In experiencing the Grand Strategy with Oz, the strategy used is in response to the internal and external conditions of the business systematic processes. As the company builds on strengths and weaknesses, the strategy is to create and sustain a competitive advantage. If a potential opportunity arises, the opportunity should be consistent with what is â€Å"important to the values (and vision) of the business. The key point in a business strategy is figuring out what you are not going to do, not just what you are going to do,† (The Bangkok Post, 2002). The Grand Strategy Cluster is the ideal platform for the selection of appropriate Grand Strategy. In conjunction with the Grand Strategy Cluster, the SWOT Matrix helps to identify a company’s position. Strengths and Weaknesses in the SWOT matrix show the firm’s internal face. Opportunities and Threats show the firm’s external face. The SWOT matrix is important to identify the firm’s competitive positioning. The Grand strategy cluster is important to select the strategies based on the firm’s competitive position and the market’s growth capability. Strategic planners can use the grand strategy cluster to plan for appropriate short term and long-term activities relevant to the company. But use of the grand strategy cluster could lead to greater challenges in choosing the right strategy in the real world. If the market is changing too fast, focusing on one tactic can become difficult to identify the ideal strategy. If external threats exist in the middle of executing a strategy, the firm may find it difficult to change quickly to address the threats. Similarly, the firm’s goal of keeping the shareholders happy may conflict with some of the selected strategies. The shareholders and the market may not see some of the strategies as positive. As an example, the firm may like to liquidate a business function considering its Grand strategy cluster quadrant positioning while the shareholders and the market may consider it as an inappropriate strategy. Sometimes, the strategic planners may not have adequate data to make an appropriate decision. Planners may need to make assumptions in the event of unavailability of data and the assumptions may be wrong and may create issues. The above are some of the challenges for strategic planners while selecting the right strategy. In looking at the â€Å"Creating a Strategic Road Map† simulation, there were several lessons applied regarding the importance and effectiveness of the formulation of action plans and goals. The basis for the formulation of action plans and goals are geared toward long-term company objectives. From the simulation, ConstructWell is the leading provider in the specialized construction service focusing on commercial and infrastructure segments in North America. The company dominated the largest construction market. Organizational success made the company vulnerable for a takeover by a larger corporation. ConstructWell decides to set long-term objectives that countered the take over bid and made long-term strategic decisions designed to rank the company at the top of the industry. A team was formulated to develop a strategic roadmap to accomplish the objectives that had been set. A strategic roadmap helps to place organizational strategies keeping in mind with the company vision and long-term objectives. Once an organization has identified workable long-term goals, the company can begin work on developing strategies to meet those set goals. Every decision made within the firm must be done in alignment with the ultimate goal of meeting the described long-term objective. Using the SWOT chart is integral in this step. Goals with specific tangible measures of progress assist an organization in measuring progress in a manner consistent with the long-term objectives of the organization by having the knowledge of the desired direction. In conclusion, the first simulation, â€Å"Thinking Strategically,† highlighted the importance of environmental scanning. The second simulation, â€Å"Developing Grand Strategies,† challenged decisions made which lead to effective strategy formulation and choice. The third and final simulation, â€Å"Creating a Strategic Road Map,† provided a simulated experience of how to build a strategic roadmap and the importance and effectiveness of formulating action plans and goals. These are the challenges that currently face strategic planners. To remain competitive, companies traditionally trim balance sheets cut costs, and return to their core competencies. Companies search for alternatives in handling procedures that are essential to their businesses. Many of today’s companies, like the mentioned in the three simulations, are all challenged to produce an outcome that is beneficial to the bottom line of the business. Globalization, rapid change, outsourcing and other major forces shaping today’s economic landscape has ushered in multi-business strategic decision making that focus a mixed structure in different countries to become the global leader in the industry. Defining a company’s strategic initiatives and mapping the strategies from a SWOT analysis in each simulation proved important as a strategic planner. Based on long-term objectives, the manager defines the strategies and the corresponding goals that would enable the business to achieve successful status. References The Bangkok Post. (2003). `Shooting for the stars through strategic planning. Retrieved on April 20, 2008, from ProQuest. Creating a Strategic Roadmap Simulation (2008). University of Phoenix: Retrieved on April 9, 2008, from website, http://mycampus. phoenix. edu. Developing Grand Strategies Simulation (2008). University of Phoenix: Retrieved on April 6, 2008 from website, http://mycampus. phoenix. edu. Harrison, S. (2008). Finding Ideas that Make a Difference. Journal of Business Strategy. Retrieved on April 19, 2008, from americansentinel. edu/JOBS//ideaspotting. shtml Oliver, R. (2002). The Strategic Sweet Spot. The Journal of Business Strategy. Retrieved on April 19, 2008, from EBSCOhost. Pearce-Robinson (2004). Strategy Implementation Ninth Edition: Retrieved on April 17, 2008, from Strategy Formulation: Formulating Long-Term Objectives and Grand Strategies. Thinking Strategically Simulation (2008). University of Phoenix: Retrieved on March 30, 2008, from website, http://mycampus. phoenix. edu.

A Critical Analysis of N.T. Wright New Perspective of Paul on Research Paper

A Critical Analysis of N.T. Wright New Perspective of Paul on Covenantal Justification - Research Paper Example Being a self admitted proponent of a number of aspects that result from the New Perspectives put forward by Paul, Wright distinctly shares a number of similarities with fellow advocates E.P Sanders and James Dunn however, Wrights arguments carry their own weight and unique undertone. In recent times however, Wright has received a large amount of criticism especially with regard to the doctrine of justification2. This is the issue which will be examined in this discussion and will be addressed by examining the origin and development of the New Perspective of Paul,2) Justification in N.T. Wright and its Relation with the Adamic, Abrahamic and New Covenant and 3) Carry out a Critical Analysis on NT Wright Covenantal Justification from Reformed Scholars. By the end of this paper, it is hoped that the reader will have a clear understanding of the weakness of the covenantal view approach to justification by contrasting strengths within the disputed justification. In recent years, there has been a distinct change in the views touching on Pauline Theology with a growing number of evangelicals endorsing what is being referred to as the New Perspective on Paul which makes a significant departure from the Reformation focus on justification based on faith alone3. Some of the most popular spokesmen for this new view are E.P Sanders and James D.G Dunn. While having slight differences in the manner in which they defend the New Perspective, all of these scholars have seemingly adopted an argument referred to as covenantal nominism which essentially provides a role to salvation to the works of Moses’ law4. Among the numerous contributions to Pauline theology E. P Sanders stands as one of the most distinct. Heavily influenced by historical-Critical ideologies, Sanders argued that Paul’s Christology is distinctly unclear and conflicting. For instance on Rom 1:3-4 Sanders argues that while the reader of the passage might be led to believe

Recognize the elements of a negotiable instrument, as well as the Essay

Recognize the elements of a negotiable instrument, as well as the elements of rules affecting transferability and liability - Essay Example The other types of instruments are constructed in form of an order. Does the instrument in question meet the requirements of negotiability under the Uniform Commercial Code? This question can best be dealt with by comparing the elements of a negotiable instrument under the Uniform Commercial Code with the instrument in question. These elements are: Writing can be on anything that is permanent and has portability (3-103 UCC). Since the above instrument is written, there appears to be no contention that the instrument in question meets the first requirement. This is intended to authenticate it (3-401 UCC). Bob by handing over a pen to the maker in this question implicates that he wants the maker to put his signature and make him be bound by the document. The maker here will be bound by making any mark on the instrument which purports to be a signature. â€Å"The promise must be an affirmatively written undertaking more than a mere acknowledgement of a debt† (Howard 1964). Apart from acknowledging that he has a debt amounting to $20 000 plus interests the maker further makes an affirmative undertaking to discharge the debt. This can be ascertained by the use of the phrase ‘I promise to pay’. Payment cannot be conditional and the promise or order cannot be subject to rights or obligations stated in another source save for any exception provided by the Uniform Commercial Code. The document in question does not imply any condition. Take for instance if the document was worded in the following manner; â€Å"I promise to pay to the order of Bobs Auto Emporium $20 000 with interest...defaulting by which I shall be liable to pay double the value of interest†, this is a prima facie case of a condition and such an instrument shall be void (Martindale 2011). Any instrument payable in money are negotiable (3-304 UCC).The above instrument is payable at a fixed amount of $20 000 and hence satisfies this test of negotiability. The Uniform

Globalization in India Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Globalization in India - Essay Example The raise in migration, pressurise the city vicinity with increase in the density of population. The need to develop more land for living drives us to eliminate the greenery or natural habitat. Many cultivable lands were been taken away by either government or private realtors for the thrust for wealth. Land acquisition in countries like India created lot of uproar as people who depend on the land has to either relocate or they were forced to relocate leaving their age old habitats, the cattle, house etc. Multi national companies like POSCO have planned huge investments in Orissa state of India. The investment has ignited people to raise lot of concerns as it requires lot of relocation and rehabilitation management at the proposed sight. According to Vijayan MJ, the state government and POSCO rolled out a billion dollar investment plan in Orissa state of India. The land required for the project is 4004 acres out of which 3566 acres is government land and the rest 438 acres is private land. In all, as per official data, 471 families would be affected from the three Gram Panchayats. However, as per the local movement against POSCO, more than 4000 families, i.e., a population of 22000 will be affected by the project in the area.

French Wedding Traditions and Customs Speech or Presentation

French Wedding Traditions and Customs - Speech or Presentation Example As culture and identity are closely associated with each other, it is our responsibility to maintain and preserve our cultural identity for the new generation as well as for people outside our culture. Because, cultural heritage offers people a genuine window to look closely at the richness and grandeur of the past and present of a society or a community. This paper briefly addresses the cultural heritage of the French society and introduces particularly the French traditions and customs related to the wedding ceremonies of French people. When it comes to describing traditions and customs, a lot of speculation is based on the current trend of avoiding or neglecting these traditional views by today’s younger generation. However, that does not paint a sad picture. Some traditions and customs are still followed by the French people in their wedding styles. The paper also discusses briefly the different wedding ceremonies followed by the French communities, along with all the sign ificant aspects relating to the traditional French wedding. French wedding ceremonies: Wedding ceremonies have always been a fascination with the bride and groom taking vows of being faithful and loyal to each other for the rest of their lives. It has always been like a fairytale with the spouses being given special treatment like prince and his princess. French wedding ceremonies also speak of the same charisma that is as fascinating as any other wedding tradition. This further requires a deeper glance into the history of French weddings. When it comes to describing a traditional French wedding, its varied customs and traditions spell of myriad hues of love and romance. As the customs and traditions indicate the important aspects of marriage, the traditional aspects involve a number of things to be discussed briefly in the following sections. Wedding costume: A traditional French wedding is usually synonymous with love and romance as repeated above. Therefore, the wedding costume gets a lot of special attention. Moreover, the design of the wedding costume involves serious consideration of the traditional values. Starting with the Medieval and Renaissance periods, French wedding costumes were just the elaborate versions of contemporary dresses in the sense that they did not require any distinctive coloring. Usually, the bride’s best dress was transformed into her wedding dress adorned by jewelry, laces, ribbons, embroidery, beads, etc. The concept of the all-white wedding gown is relatively new in French tradition. Introduced by Ann of Brittany, daughter of Francis II in 1499, the all-white wedding gown started receiving popularity and acceptance only in 19th century. The elaborate styling of modern white wedding gown is attributed to Empress Eugenie, who wore it in her wedding to Napoleon III in 1853. The idea behind an all-white wedding gown is to symbolize the matrimonial alliance as a token of the bride’s purity and innocence. Now coming to the traditional customs related to the wedding attire, two mo st important concepts are – a) the bridal trousseau and b) the wedding armoire. The bridal trousseau is a bundle of linen cloth given to the baby girl by her parents. The trousseau is also known as the ‘hope chest’ that is given to the girl for her future wedding ceremony. Besides, the girl is gifted with clothes, jewelry or any other items that she would need after her wedding, by her family members and friends. Contemporary customs also include this but in a modified manner of the old custom. Today, the bride is presented with all the household necessities in a stone-carved box by her family just before the wedding. According to the French tradition, the wedding armoir

Waste equals Food Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Waste equals Food - Essay Example Human influence significantly affects the cycle through which nature replenishes itself. The human practices introduce a model through which the nature cycle becomes obstructed. The substances humans pick from nature cannot safely return into the natural cycle developing a closed end. The writer also identifies the demarcation of substances into two material flow pathways. These are technical and biological pathways. Of late, human advancement has blended the two pathways with the result of obstructing both. This is through the creation of hybrids which can neither benefit the biological pathway, nor the technical pathway. A banana peel may undergo different processes depending on its mode of disposal. When placed in a landfill, organic matter remains in a form that is not reusable by nature. The landfill contains other contaminants that make the peel not to be salvaged by either the biological process or the technical process. The benefits obtainable from the peel become unrecoverab le. When placed in a compost pile, however, the peel forms the raw material for microorganisms which salvage the carbohydrates present. This way, the peel undergoes decomposition to release minerals, which replenish the soil (Picq et al 34). The authors’ main objective is to caution the human race from entangling in processes that do not promote continuous replenishment of the earth. In their view, the earth is the source and should be protected to promote life. Several practices by humans, however, interrupt with the earth’s life cycle and contribute to adverse effects. With the advent of modernization and increasing population, agricultural practices vary from the ancient methodologies with a marked increase in use of chemicals in farming. Though more food than ever is produced, the practices leave the earth vulnerable to erosion, and death of natural fauna. Chemicals used in farming end up killing the beneficial microorganisms thus interrupting the natural ecosystem . Deforestation, as a result of tree felling at a rate lower than that of planting, has led to erosion. The incorporation of technical nutrients with biological ones means that once the lifespan of the product ends, the waste cannot reenter the nature’s pathway or be reused in the technical pathway. The chapter addresses the issue of how human beings can be responsive in ensuring the stability of earth. The emphasis is that the earth is the primary source of livelihood for survival of life. The earth has its own mechanism of ensuring continuous flow of nutrients. This happens through the nature’s life-cycle involving death and decomposition of matter. It is critical to come up with technologies that do not end with products that cannot be reused or recycled. Substances used as technical nutrients should allow reuse in other systems rather than end up being disposed or degrading the environment. Technical and biological nutrients should not be blended. Else, the systems in which they gain application as hybrids, should allow the materials to be recovered separately to re-enter the separate pathways. In order to support their conclusions, the writers cite the intervention in making materials for wheelchairs with nutritive biodegradable matter. This was done through elimination of harmful dies and a terrific selection of natural fibers. The products not only ensured comfort and aeration to the user, but once worn out, they could be

Environmental Footprint Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Environmental Footprint - Lab Report Example This increase in carbon dioxide emissions results in increase in the global Earth temperature. Consequently, development of newer homes in areas that have been originally covered with forests results in increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, since the forests functioned as carbon sinks. In addition, same lifestyle among humans may result in degradation of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity. As the human population increases, new modifications on the landscape, such as creation of new structures, result in altering of the ecosystem of a place and disruption of the ecosystem processes. The ecosystem processes are controlled by the biodiversity in an area. If everyone enjoyed the same lifestyle, the rate of consumption of resources would increase rapidly. This would result in a decline, in the resource base for humanity. Changing human lifestyles, such as preferring fast foods to agricultural products can also result in decreased farming activities. This may lead to lack of food r esources necessary to support human population and, hence, may affect the economic security. Consequently, increase in human activities, such as deforestation, affects ecosystem processes, which reduces the productivity of land. ... In addition, turning down of the temperature of the heating thermostat by eight degrees Fahrenheit and the air conditioner by seven degrees Fahrenheit can provide savings of $24 and $42 respectively. This will save about 770 pounds of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere. Activities, such as washing clothes in cold water instead of hot will save up to $10 annually and in the process there would be savings by 181 pounds of carbon dioxide emission. In addition, using the sleep feature in the computer will save $10 annually saving about 159 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. In order to reduce carbon emissions, recycling products associated with foodstuffs can be used. This will save about 447 pounds of carbon dioxide. The total amount of carbon emissions saved by an individual amounts to 19,905 pounds. This produces savings amounting to $2,304 per year. For a population of 100 million in America, the total amount of carbon emissions saved would amount to approximatel y 1990.5 billion pounds of carbon dioxide saved per year. Therefore, the total savings in dollars would be about $230.4 dollars per annum. Implementation of these solutions will greatly reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which will result in maintaining a stable earth temperature. In addition, reducing the miles driven by vehicle will help improve the air quality, as the production of carbon dioxide from the vehicles will be reduced. Consequently, increased recycling as a measure to reduce pollution will help improve water quality, as most of products that were disposed in the waters will be re-used. Reduction in the emission of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will improve the health conditions of humans especially those who have breathing

French Wedding Traditions and Customs Speech or Presentation

French Wedding Traditions and Customs - Speech or Presentation Example As culture and identity are closely associated with each other, it is our responsibility to maintain and preserve our cultural identity for the new generation as well as for people outside our culture. Because, cultural heritage offers people a genuine window to look closely at the richness and grandeur of the past and present of a society or a community. This paper briefly addresses the cultural heritage of the French society and introduces particularly the French traditions and customs related to the wedding ceremonies of French people. When it comes to describing traditions and customs, a lot of speculation is based on the current trend of avoiding or neglecting these traditional views by today’s younger generation. However, that does not paint a sad picture. Some traditions and customs are still followed by the French people in their wedding styles. The paper also discusses briefly the different wedding ceremonies followed by the French communities, along with all the sign ificant aspects relating to the traditional French wedding. French wedding ceremonies: Wedding ceremonies have always been a fascination with the bride and groom taking vows of being faithful and loyal to each other for the rest of their lives. It has always been like a fairytale with the spouses being given special treatment like prince and his princess. French wedding ceremonies also speak of the same charisma that is as fascinating as any other wedding tradition. This further requires a deeper glance into the history of French weddings. When it comes to describing a traditional French wedding, its varied customs and traditions spell of myriad hues of love and romance. As the customs and traditions indicate the important aspects of marriage, the traditional aspects involve a number of things to be discussed briefly in the following sections. Wedding costume: A traditional French wedding is usually synonymous with love and romance as repeated above. Therefore, the wedding costume gets a lot of special attention. Moreover, the design of the wedding costume involves serious consideration of the traditional values. Starting with the Medieval and Renaissance periods, French wedding costumes were just the elaborate versions of contemporary dresses in the sense that they did not require any distinctive coloring. Usually, the bride’s best dress was transformed into her wedding dress adorned by jewelry, laces, ribbons, embroidery, beads, etc. The concept of the all-white wedding gown is relatively new in French tradition. Introduced by Ann of Brittany, daughter of Francis II in 1499, the all-white wedding gown started receiving popularity and acceptance only in 19th century. The elaborate styling of modern white wedding gown is attributed to Empress Eugenie, who wore it in her wedding to Napoleon III in 1853. The idea behind an all-white wedding gown is to symbolize the matrimonial alliance as a token of the bride’s purity and innocence. Now coming to the traditional customs related to the wedding attire, two mo st important concepts are – a) the bridal trousseau and b) the wedding armoire. The bridal trousseau is a bundle of linen cloth given to the baby girl by her parents. The trousseau is also known as the ‘hope chest’ that is given to the girl for her future wedding ceremony. Besides, the girl is gifted with clothes, jewelry or any other items that she would need after her wedding, by her family members and friends. Contemporary customs also include this but in a modified manner of the old custom. Today, the bride is presented with all the household necessities in a stone-carved box by her family just before the wedding. According to the French tradition, the wedding armoir

Environmental Footprint Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Environmental Footprint - Lab Report Example This increase in carbon dioxide emissions results in increase in the global Earth temperature. Consequently, development of newer homes in areas that have been originally covered with forests results in increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, since the forests functioned as carbon sinks. In addition, same lifestyle among humans may result in degradation of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity. As the human population increases, new modifications on the landscape, such as creation of new structures, result in altering of the ecosystem of a place and disruption of the ecosystem processes. The ecosystem processes are controlled by the biodiversity in an area. If everyone enjoyed the same lifestyle, the rate of consumption of resources would increase rapidly. This would result in a decline, in the resource base for humanity. Changing human lifestyles, such as preferring fast foods to agricultural products can also result in decreased farming activities. This may lead to lack of food r esources necessary to support human population and, hence, may affect the economic security. Consequently, increase in human activities, such as deforestation, affects ecosystem processes, which reduces the productivity of land. ... In addition, turning down of the temperature of the heating thermostat by eight degrees Fahrenheit and the air conditioner by seven degrees Fahrenheit can provide savings of $24 and $42 respectively. This will save about 770 pounds of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere. Activities, such as washing clothes in cold water instead of hot will save up to $10 annually and in the process there would be savings by 181 pounds of carbon dioxide emission. In addition, using the sleep feature in the computer will save $10 annually saving about 159 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. In order to reduce carbon emissions, recycling products associated with foodstuffs can be used. This will save about 447 pounds of carbon dioxide. The total amount of carbon emissions saved by an individual amounts to 19,905 pounds. This produces savings amounting to $2,304 per year. For a population of 100 million in America, the total amount of carbon emissions saved would amount to approximatel y 1990.5 billion pounds of carbon dioxide saved per year. Therefore, the total savings in dollars would be about $230.4 dollars per annum. Implementation of these solutions will greatly reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which will result in maintaining a stable earth temperature. In addition, reducing the miles driven by vehicle will help improve the air quality, as the production of carbon dioxide from the vehicles will be reduced. Consequently, increased recycling as a measure to reduce pollution will help improve water quality, as most of products that were disposed in the waters will be re-used. Reduction in the emission of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will improve the health conditions of humans especially those who have breathing

Kinds of research data Essay Example for Free

Kinds of research data Essay The basic classification of research data is in terms of quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative research entails examination of numerical data by using mathematical models and statistical procedures. (Morgan, 2000). Qualitative research involves use of analysis and opinions to explain interviews and documents and understanding the phenomenon. The study requires a qualitative and some quantitative approach rather than a purely numerical one. Data Collection Approaches Data collection approaches can be primary and secondary. Both primary and secondary approaches will be utilized Extensive research will be carried out in the Library as well as on the World Wide Web. Qualitative Research Methodologies Qualitative methodology focuses on quality† a term referring to the essence or ambience of something. Qualitative methods are used to understand complex social phenomena. In the present situation, literature survey along with interviews and questionnaires will be the key techniques used for data collection, collation and analysis. Case-Study Research Methodology. Case study in the primary research methodology employed in this study. A case study is an enquiry which uses multiple sources of evidence. It evaluates a contemporary phenomenon in real life context within the boundaries of the phenomenon and when the context is not clearly evident. Potter, (1996) has defined case study as a â€Å"realistic† methodology, which deals with solid and specific questions. Case study translates research objectives into more researchable problems, and provides rich examples, which are easy to comprehend. The significance of case studies is its revealing the meaning of a phenomenon. A peer group case study approach is considered best suited than other techniques to implement this research, as it will concentrate on an empirical, contemporary problem. It will also enable answering the questions as, â€Å"why† and, â€Å"how† to understand the underlying motivations. It will generate empirical data and interesting information specific to the phenomenon under study. Research cases offer a unique tool to testing theory by examining phenomena which are beyond the traditional statistical approaches. (Potter, 1996). Case study research is useful to the aims because the degree to which a case study produces valid and credible information is generally higher than qualitative research in a more general survey. An analysis of the Chinese and UK banking systems is proposed to be carried out with reference to the case study of Bank of China and HSBC, London. Limitations of Case Study One of the limits of case studies is the difficulty of generalizing their findings. If the case design is sound and if the researcher is careful to be explicit about the phenomenon and the context of the study, then results can be generalized.(Potter, 1996). Another limit of case studies is that they generate a lot of information that needs to be logically handled to strengthen the argument presented in order to develop credible conclusion. Research Instruments Primary data is collected for the research study to answer a specific question. Ways of collecting this kind of information includes surveys, observation or controlled experiments. Surveys are one of the most common ways to collect data, where the subject can be contacted through mail, telephone or directly in personal interviews. (Veal, 2000). It entails sending questionnaires, interviews and non-formal enquiries made to people. By carrying out interviews of a significant number of individuals a broad perspective can be provided. This research will collect data by essentially the method of interviews and questionnaires. Data Collection Method Questionnaire Survey Surveys are frequently used to obtain information about social issues. Jones (1997) has described that survey needs planned strategy to gather data. Surveys can be conducted in many ways, over the telephone, by mail or in person. Questionnaire surveys are ideal for providing complex information. Questionnaire involves a sample of the population which can range from few hundreds to few thousands depending on the research study (Veal, 2000). Questionnaire technique has been used in the study. Limitation of the questionnaires On an average the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, but a key drawback is low response rate. This will result in low level of confidence and distort the analogy of statistical information. Another weakness of questionnaire is the fact that it is a structured format and allows little room for flexibility with respect to reply by the respondents. Interview Interviews will form an interactive part of this study and will be carried out after the secondary research is done in combination with the questionnaire. When doing these interviews it will be important to keep a neutral view of the research topic, where the actual behavior instead of an intended behavior needs to be identified. Veal (2000) has described interview as a strategy to find out from people about the things, which cannot be observed directly.

Examine The Distinctions Between Theories Of International Relations Politics Essay

Examine The Distinctions Between Theories Of International Relations Politics Essay Critically examine the distinctions between explanatory and constitutive theories of international relations, illustrating your argument with insights from a variety of theoretical perspectives The distinction between explanatory and constitutive theory is a contested issue that has emerged as a result of the contemporary way of framing issues in International Relations. I will argue that this is an ambiguous and superficial distinction that when pressed to categorise theoretical concepts requires an oversimplification and carries a danger of negligence. I then offer an alternative categorisation; that put forward by Robert Cox ( 1981): problem-solving and critical theory. I conclude by arguing that the act of categorising in itself is highly problematic. Explanatory theory views the world as something external to our theories, indentifying a number of key factors and then predicting a range of outcomes on the basis of a few important causal factors. (Kurki Wight, 2007, p.28) In contrast, constitutive theory argues that our theories help construct our world and that we cannot separate subject and object as a causal relationship; but instead theory and practice are embedded. The epistemology of explanatory theory is positivist, arguing that we can have authentic value- free knowledge based upon sense experience and methodologically using empirical data to produce universal conditionals. (Baylis et al., 2008, p.177) Constitutive theory rejects this epistemological and methodological approach, arguing that human knowledge is not based on neutral foundations, but rather upon human conjectures. Instead, constitutive theory is concerned with the study of how norms, rules and ideas are constituted in social objects; preferring to study from a meta-theoretical perspective. (Kurki Wight, 2007, p.29) Realism, an orthodox theory, is regarded as a classic example of explanatory theory. (Kurki Wight, 2007, p.28) Realism claims that politics and society are governed by objective laws based upon a fixed conception of human nature. (Morgenthau, 1967) The Realist conception of human nature has its roots in the Hobbesian man; a creature of self-preservation, countless appetites and desires; when added to the anarchical state of nature the life of man is solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short. (Hobbes, 2008, p.84) This image of man is then extrapolated into the state and world order, giving Realism a rational outline that concludes that states are by nature power maximizers. (Rosenberg, 2001, p.17) This concept of power imposes intellectual discipline upon the observer, infuses rational order into the subject matter of politics (Morgenthau, 1967) and produces the idealistic  [1]  conception of a balance of power. Overall, Realism advocates a broad positivist scientific epistemolog y by a determinate causal relation between the object and subject i.e. the fixed objective nature of man into a subjective social power relation between states. Another orthodox explanatory theory is said to be Liberalism, which sets out a common positivist epistemology and ontological emphasis on human nature. The Liberal perspective accepts the Realist ontology of human nature and state-centricity, but differs by emphasising the rational qualities of individuals and a faith in the progress of social life. Despite the fixed conception of human nature, man is able to cooperate and construct a peaceful society. (Russett, 2007, p.96) Although not denying the international system is anarchical, there is a disagreement as to what this means and why it matters. (Baldwin, 1993, p.4) Liberalism has a belief in democratic governments, economic interdependence and international law and institutions, in a series of feedback loops each factor strengthening the other and leading to a self-perpetuating peaceful system. (Russett, 2007, p.107) In a sense Liberalism breaks from away from the Realist conception of man, to a more central role of rational indi viduals cooperating and constructing a peaceful society. Once more Liberalism applies a positivist methodology by relating the agency of human nature as the ontological basis and predicting structural power relations between states. So far I have focused upon two generalised orthodox theories and argued that both categorise neatly within the explanatory bracket. However, when moving to the third paradigm of International Relations theory Marxism we find that the distinctions become obscure and potentially misleading if operated negligently. Marxisms methodology operates on a dual basis of dialectical and historical materialism; if taken separately I believe Marxism can wrongly be defined as explanatory theory, whereas, taken in its correct dual sense Marxism bridges the gap between explanatory and constitutive theories. Firstly, dialectical materialism is a theory of struggle and must be understood as in direct opposition to idealism. Contrary to the orthodox theories, dialectics does not regard nature as an accidental agglomeration of things, independent and isolated such as the ontological basis of power and human nature but a connected and integrated whole, in which things are organically interdependent. The dialectical methodology is holistic and therefore holds that we cannot understand the phenomena in nature, if isolated from surrounding phenomena. Contrary to orthodox theory, human nature is not in a state of rest, fixed and immobile, but in a state of continuous movement and change. This dialectical approach has important implications for the way in which Marxism studies social life, removing it from a simple object and subject split, whilst also distinguishing its methodology from orthodox theory. As Marx himself put it, as soon as this active life-process is described, history ceases to be a collection of dead facts as it is with the empiricists. (Marx Engels, 1970, p.48) Nevertheless, Marxism still retains an element of explanatory quality, as dialectical materialism envisages a process of development; where qualitative changes occur not gradually, but rapidly and abruptly, leaping from one state to another; not accidently, but as a natural result of gradual quantitative changes in the unfolding of contradictions inherent in nature. (Stalin, 1938) This dialectical process results in Marxist methodology to scientifically predict the eventual downfall of capitalism to a higher stage of communism. The mistake often made with Marxism is to highlight the objective factors as primarily driving revolutionary change. Instead, by incorporating a reading of Marxist historical materialism, we begin to understand that objective factors inevitably give rise to revolts and not revolution; i.e. objectively the stock market will crash due to the structure of capitalism, giving rise to a subjective revolt. By incorporating historical materialism, Marxism focuses on the subjective factors alive within an epoch of history and seeks to measure the factors for revolution and the factors against; objective factors can include unintentional structures of exploitation and alienation; giving rise to subjective necessity to find a job, or join a union. It is this dialectical interrelation of object and subject that informs the Marxist methodology. Contrary to explanatory theory, which asserts that theory can be separate from practice, and that value-free knowledge is possible due to our sensations, ideas and perceptions; Marxist materialism holds that matter is primary, since it is the source of our ideas, and that our theory is derivative, a reflection of matter and practice. One cannot separate the thought from matter which thinks. Matter is the subject of all changes. (Marx, 2001, p.167) Whatever the material conditions of life of a society, such are the ideas and theories about them it is not the consciousness of men that determines their being, but, on the contrary, their social being that determines their consciousness. (Marx, 2001, p.425) In summation, Marxism has scientific qualities and foundational epistemology similar to explanatory theory; yet, by its break towards a more holistic methodology and historical materialist ontology, marks a nascent stage of constitutive theory. The Marxist ideological hypothesis marks a transition towards Post theoretical concepts. Post-structuralism claims that interpretation is void of any objectivity and as such political leaders, social activists, scholars and students all actively engage in a interpretation of the world that is ideological. Post-structuralism attacks the Realist foundational approach, highlighting how state-centric ontology results in predetermined practice; i.e. balance of power emerges as Realism marks a border between inside/outside, sovereign/anarchic, us/them (Campbell, 2007, p.216) and post-structuralism is concerned with how this inside and outside relation is mutually composed. Post-structuralism argues that these interpretations are made from a particular ideological vantage point and hence representation cannot be abstracted from our identities; therefore post-structuralism is concerned with the discourse of identity politics. (Campbell, 2007, pp.214-16) Post-structuralism is essentially conc erned with the deconstruction of truth claims; for example, Realism, Liberalism and Marxism all have a normative position and therefore claim to have uncovered some fundamental truth about the world. (Baylis et al., 2008, p.185) Overall, post-structuralism has a devastating critique and deconstruction of the normative element of traditional theories. However, I would argue that this meta-theoretical critique is useful in retrospect, yet, pacifying and un-politicizing by an failure to change the concrete conditions of society; otherwise contradicting its anti-normative perspective. The distinctions between explanatory and constitutive appear to be problematic and I believe this due to the construction of explanatory theory using a framework of Realist ontology, epistemology and methodology. This forces a superficial distinction to be drawn in the shape of constitutive theory, which directly opposes Realism. Yet, when placing Marxism and to a degree Liberalism within these inflexible categories, an element of overlap is necessary. Instead, using Robert Coxs more flexible categorisation; problem-solving and critical theory helps to show clearly the points of departure and encourage reflection on the process of theorising itself; i.e. to achieve a perspective on perspectives. (Cox, 1981, p.88) Realism and Liberalism would be defined as problem-solving theory due to its negation of the prevailing social and power relationships, as well as institutions and economic structure. The second category is critical theory, it is critical because it refuses to except the exi sting order as a non-historical occurrence, but question how that order came about and how it is maintained. (Cox, 1981, pp.88-89) Overall, the problem-solving and critical distinctions offer more flexibility and clarity between theoretical perspectives. Nevertheless, the distinctions made are on a normative basis and subsequently complicate the positioning of post theoretical perspectives. To conclude, I would argue that the distinctions of Explanatory and Constitutive theory are highly problematic since the act of categorisation, in itself, leads to the creation of new discourses that can dangerously disregard important underpinnings of major theories. As Marx once famously recalled if this is Marxism, then I am not a Marxist (Engels, 1890) and Foucaults effort to escape any fixed identity through his writings, (Gutting, 2005, p.10) illustrates the discomfort of categorisation as practice in political theory.