Description of the educational system in Egypt

The intent of this chapter is to give the reader a general position of the context in which the survey is conducted. The chapter will travel, from planetary to specific, by giving a general description of the educational system in Egypt runing from its doctrine, structuring and finance to curriculum planning, design and development. Emphasis will be given to English linguistic communication instruction ; its purposes, and manner of development. A farther point about higher instruction: current state of affairs and national reform is highlighted. Finally, EFL teacher developing programme, the function of CDELT in accomplishing national ends are brought into focal point for its importance to the whole intent of the probe.2.1 Country profileThe Arab Republic of Egypt lies in the north eastern portion of Africa and Sinai Peninsula in the western portion of Asia. It is about one million square kilometers in size. The population of Egypt was estimated in 2008 as 75,175,062 harmonizing to t he Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics in Egypt. ( Said & A ; Mourad, 2008 ) .2.2 The nature and doctrine of instruction in EgyptEgypt ‘s instruction system is the largest in the Mena part and among the largest systems in the universe. As of 1999-2000, the system reported an registration of about 16 million, of which 7 million are in primary instruction, 4 million in preparative instruction, 3 million in secondary instruction, and over 1.8 million in third instruction. The system besides employs the largest figure of civil retainers in Egypt about 3.8 million employees ( The World Bank, 2007 ) . Some negative features of the Egyptian educational system include what Hargreaves ( 1997 ) termed â€Å" a additive consolidative merger † ; instructors with low degrees both in the cognition of the capable affair and in teaching method ; a mismatch between course of studies and curricula drawn at the cardinal national degree and the existent instruction larning state of affairs ; ritualisation, and mechanistic acquisition and learning methods. Other negative characteristics include: examination-driven direction, politicisation, bureaucratism that hinders the accomplishment of indispensable marks behind schooling, limited resources, centralization, and mal-distribution of educational services amongst the province parts ( Jarrar & A ; Massialas, 1992 ) . Many of the defects of the educational system, and so its failure to convey about effectual long-run reform, have been due to its being extremely centralised, in malice of efforts at decentralization. The system is really hierarchal, with the Ministry of Higher Education ( MOE ) at the top of the pyramid. The system is based on senior status instead than virtue. Due to its extremely centralised and bureaucratic nature, the educational system defines and predetermines what is to be taught, how it is to be taught, the functions of instructors and scholars, every bit good as the intended results of the educational procedure. Given this character, the Egyptian educational system is about imperviable to influences and enterprises from instructors, parents and scholars ( Gahin, 2001 ) . Egyptian instruction has been portrayed. harmonizing to ( Hargreaves, 1997 ) as â€Å" undemocratic † , â€Å" teacher-centred ‘ , â€Å" autocratic † ‘ and â€Å" extremely competitory † . Students ‘ greatest concern is to hive away and keep information so that when it is needed, they pour it out in the test which is held to prove their grounds of larning. Their exam tonss are the exclusive standards for pupils ‘ success.2.3 Higher Education System in EgyptEgypt has a really extended higher instruction system. About 30 % of all Egyptians in the relevant age group go to university. However, merely half of them alumnus. The Ministry of Higher Education supervises the third degree of instruction. There are a figure of universities providing to pupils in diverse Fieldss. In the current instruction system, there are 17 public universities, 51 public non-university establishments, 16 private universities and 89 private higher establishments. T he higher instruction cohort is expected to increase by close to 6 per centum ( 60,000 ) pupils per annum through 2009. ( Higher Education in Egypt: Reappraisals of National Policies for Education, 2010 ) In 1990, a statute law was passed to supply greater liberty to the universities. But still the instruction substructure, equipment and human resources are non in topographic point to provide to the lifting higher instruction pupils. But at that place has non been a similar addition in passing on bettering the higher instruction system in footings of debut of new plans and engineerings. Both at national degree ( inspection systems, scrutinies ) and at local degree ( school degree pupil appraisals ) steps of the success of instruction schemes and the public presentation of the system are weak. ( Ginsburb & A ; Megahed, 2009 ) Although higher instruction was founded much earlier in Egypt before it appeared in Europe ( Metcalfe, 2008 ) , The Government of Egypt recognizes that there are still existent challenges to be faced in the sector, foremost amongst which are the demand to significantly better sector administration and efficiency, increase institutional liberty, significantly better the quality and relevancy of higher instruction plans, and maintain coverage at bing degrees. Recent Government actions to construct political consensus on issues critical to reform hold created a clime that is mature for alteration. The Ministry of Higher Education ( MOHE ) acts as a title-holder for reform. The Minister, appointed in 1997, rapidly established a commission for the reform of higher instruction known as the Higher Education Enhancement Programme ( HEEP ) Committee which drew in a broad scope of stakeholders including industrialists and Parliamentarians. A National Conference on higher instruction reform was held in February 2000, and a Declaration for action emanating from the Conference was endorsed by the President and the Prime Minister. The Declaration identified 25 specific reform enterprises. Due to the dynamic nature of the reform scheme, which entails reconsidering precedences for each period, a Strategic Planning Unit ( SPU ) was established for the MOHE to guarantee the sustainability of planning and undertaking monitoring during the three stages and for future 1s. A Students ‘ Activity Project ( SAP ) was besides initiated as portion of plan accreditation similar to scientific research and station alumnus surveies.2.3.1 Egyptian universities:Universities in Egypt are by and large either state-funded or in private funded. Education in Egypt is free by jurisprudence, nevertheless there are really little fees paid for registration. Public establishments, with few exclusions are by and large overcrowded with a pupil organic structure of several 1000s. Private universities are either Egyptian or foreign, and normally have a much smaller pupil organic structure and with a much higher tuition rates.2.3.1.1 Public UniversitiesPublic universities are under authorities d isposal. Public Higher instruction is free in Egypt, and Egyptian pupils merely pay enrollment fees. International pupils pay full tuition with fees that reach up to ? 1,500 a twelvemonth. In 2004, the Egyptian authorities announced its program to make new public universities from dividing multi-branch universities ( Cairo University, Menoufia HYPERLINK â€Å" hypertext transfer protocol: //en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanta_University † University ) . This should let the enlargement of these much neglected smaller rural subdivisions and supply infinite for the increasing figure of pupils. There is besides al Azhar University, considered the best university for the survey of faith and scientific discipline.2.3.1.2 Private UniversitiesBefore 1993, merely two private foreign establishments were established decennaries ago. The American University in Cairo, founded in 1919 and the Arab Academy for Science and Technology ( AAST ) . Under a new jurisprudence in 1993, Egyptian private universities were established get downing from 1996. These new universities are accredited from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Universities every 3 old ages, in add-on to accreditation from fo reign educational organic structures in Europe. ( Herrera, 2007 )2.3.2 AdmissionAdmission to public universities and establishments operates through a centralised office, Admission Office of Egyptian Universities. This office receives applications after the consequences from the General Secondary Education Certificate are announced in any of its offices or online. The application day of the months are announced every twelvemonth but normally take topographic point every August. The application is both discipline-based and university-based. Students are asked to make full the admittances application that naming their picks of their coveted subject and university in a descending order of precedence. Students with higher tonss have a better opportunity of procuring a topographic point for themselves in their school of pick. While lower-scoring pupil may â€Å" acquire stuck † in a school or train different from that they desired, which might take them to seek admittance in private universities where competition for topographic points is less ferocious. Admission to private universities is different and is similar to universe broad registration processs.2.3.3 Course of studyIn universities, general or private, course of study are left to lectors and professors to make up one's mind the doctrine, guidelines, and even stuffs that they think pupils should larn. By and large talking, the course of study is centralised plenty to incarnate political and classless rules presented in free instruction and guaranting that all students have entree to the same programme of survey. It aims to raise criterions, guarantee that all pupils attain the aims at each degree, and to make the conditions for increased school and instructor answerability.2.4 English linguistic communication instruction in EgyptEnglish has long been given a particular position in Egypt, whether â€Å" a necessary immorality during the British business † or â€Å" a practical vehicle for educational, economic andaˆÂ ¦ societal mobility ( Schaub, 2000, p. 235 ) † . the chief aims set for ELT are to develop the ability to utilize English for communicating ; to further favorable attitudes towards larning in general and towards appropriate foreign civilizations in peculiar ; to develop an consciousness of the nature of linguistic communication and linguistic communi cation acquisition and hence, achieve cross-cultural consciousness ; to assist pupils ‘ womb-to-tomb acquisition every bit good as develop self-independence and to advance collaborative as a measure towards conveying up citizens who appreciate teamwork ( Schaub, 2000 ) . These are what is stated as the theoretical purposes of instruction. However, As far as the EFL schoolroom is concerned, it is non different from any other school topic, since it is a portion of the whole system. The state of affairs might conceivably be worse, due to the particular nature of the English linguistic communication learning in Egypt. The dominant form in the bulk of schoolrooms is that of an active instructors and inactive scholars. The instructor is the exclusive authorization to make up one's mind â€Å" what † and â€Å" haw † in the instruction and acquisition procedure, based on the cognition spelled out by the stakeholders. In footings of quality, the instruction and acquisition of EFL is characterised by instructors ‘ low proficiency in the mark linguistic communication. Teachers ‘ chief involvement and purpose is to acquire their pupils to go through their tests. Students ‘ Markss in such tests are the grounds of instructors ‘ success along with their governments in accomplishing the purposes of the MOE. That is why it is non surprising to happen a parallel system of instruction called â€Å" private tuition † taking at enabling pupils to go through the test and acquire high Markss. This private and Markss oriented tuition has long been fought by the authorities, which tries difficult to take serious and terrible steps against it. However, these attempts have been in vain up to now. Besides, a big per centum of primary and preparative school instructors are non-specialists ( 41 % ) ( Ibrahim, 2008 ) . In add-on, rating techniques do non get by with the development in acq uisition and learning methodological analysis techniques, and are rather far from the existent appraisal of pupils ‘ public presentation.2.5 Teacher preparation Reform Programme:Egypt has no deficit of instructors, so if anything Egypt has a excess of instructors, with some of 800,000 instructors presently believed to be in the state. ( Abdel-WAHAB, January 2008 ) ( Crookes, 2003 ) concludes that autochthonal Egyptian instructors, though non needfully utilizing activities or schoolroom interaction forms thought most desirable by Second Language Acquistion theoreticians, likely acquire better than foreign teachers ; but that the big category contexts that were new to the Egyptian instruction system ( through non unusual around the universe ) were a challenge met by the visitants. However the techniques used by visitants to pull off theses challenges, Holliday suggests, would be improbable to hold positive long-run effects because they did non construct on autochthonal forms and penchants. ( Holliday, 1996 ) concludes that † merely a new, rationalized-yet traditional- attack, could be to the full effectual in theaˆÂ ¦.culture of Egyptian university big classesaˆÂ ¦.. Exceptions apart, merely local lectors would be able to the full to accomplish this, because it would necessitate a rationalized edifice and re-allocation [ of thoughts and resources ] on an bing traditional footing ( p.100 ) Well aware of the challenges, the authorities is now looking for new ways of making things and has emarked on a big graduated table reform programme of public instruction to give single instituttions greater liberty and engagement to the private sector to assist increase capacity and better criterions. ( The Report: Egypt 2009, 2009 ) The major accomplishments of the Higher Education Enhancement Programme ( HEEP ) have been integrated into the national Education strategic program for the period 2008-2012, which aims to deconcentrate the national the national school construction, present school-based reform and better human resources through professional development programmes. The increased accent on instructor preparation within the model of the National Education Strategic Plan is considered one of the most of import facets of the reform programme.2.6 EFL prospective instructors preparation programme at Menoufia University:Since the focal point in this survey is centred on prospective EFL instructors ‘ perceptual experiences of microteaching, it will be utile to supply an overview of Menoufia university, Faculty of instruction and their readying programme in the school of instruction.2.6.1 Menoufia University: Historical backgroundAn Egyptian Public University founded in 19 76, is located chiefly in Shibin EL Kom, a metropolis in Delta and the capital of the Monufia Governorate. There is besides a subdivision in 1 † Sadat City, founded in 2006. It contains modules: of Education, Agriculture, Arts, Computers and Information, Commerce, Law, and Medicine. Both undergraduate and post-graduate instruction is offered.2.6.2 Menoufia university mission, general intents and strategic aimsMenoufia university ‘s mission is lending to construct the academic and moral construction of people, and developing both the local and national societies by supplying the specialised cognition and accomplishments peculiarly those that are related to the rural and new industrial communities through high quality educational, research, and social services that can assist the university to accomplish a competitory advantage at the national, regional, and international degrees. The general intents of the University represent the cardinal indexs of success of the achieve ment of the University ‘s mission. Seven general intents are identified for Menoufiya University. Each of the old general intents has a figure of strategic aims that reflect them. ( see appendix 1 )2.6.3 Faculty of Education, Menoufia UniversityThe module of Education was foremost established in 1971, affiliated to Ain Shams University. In 1975, it became attached to Tanta University. The module so became attached to Minoufiya University at its initiation in 1976. It contains sections of Educational Psychology. Curricula and Teaching Methods, and Education Fundamentals. Its Bachelors grades are offered in combination with one of the sections in the module of Humanistic disciplines or the Faculty of Science.2.6.4 school of Education English section readying classs:Theoretically, EFL instructors is prepared in the module of instruction through two complementary sets of classs. The first set of classs is chiefly linguistic communication proficiency classs ( capable affair cogniti on like English literature, interlingual rendition, grammar, phonetics, and linguistics ) , and the 2nd set is pedagogical classs ( the instruction proficiency ) , including classs like foundations of instruction ; comparative instruction ; educational psychological science ; along with the learning practicum that aims to fix pupil instructors for the prospective occupation. The practicum is jointly carried out and supervised by the MOE inspectors and instructors along with the staff of modules of instruction.Bettering Pre service teacher developing programmes:The national board for professional instruction criterions ( NBPTS ) identified five features of high-quality instructor: Teachers are committed to pupils and their acquisition. Teachers know the topic they teach and how to learn those topics to pupils. Teachers are responsible for pull offing and supervising pupil acquisition. Teachers think consistently about their pattern and learn from experience. Teachers are members of larning communities. Demand for teacher readying plans at establishments of higher instruction and through a go oning procedure of development and research, the centre for the development of English Language Teaching ( CDELT ) supported by the Integrated English Language Program ( IELP- II ) have integrated information about instructional rules to develop Egyptian criterions for instructors graduating from pre-service English instructor instruction plans ( STEP ) . Through the professional instruction plan, campaigners are expected to run into the criterions at progressively complex degrees. Campaigners are assessed at each degree to show public presentation. The subjects of building cognition, developing pattern, and furthering relationships provide the foundation for each of the criterions. These criterions, which are grouped into five chief spheres schoolroom direction, linguistic communication, direction, appraisal, and professionalism, organize the anchor of our instructor instruction plans. The STEPS undertaking is a countrywide enterprise under the protections of the Center for the Development of English Language Teaching ( CDELT ) in coaction with the Program Planning and Monitoring Unit ( PPMU ) . It is sponsored by the Integrated English Language Project II ( IELP-II ) . Its purpose is to put criterions for instructors of English at pre-service degree. The STEPS undertaking force consists of representatives from 12 Faculties of Education from nine universities and from the Ministry of Education of the Arab Republic of Egypt. The Task Force has drafted a set of criterions in five spheres depicting what freshly qualified instructors from our Faculties of Education should cognize and be able to make.The Role of CDELT to better Clinical supervising during Practicum:Harmonizing to ( Bowers & A ; Gaies, 1997 ) , Five rules underline the clinical supervivsion of CDELT classs. These are: There should be a balance between. theory and pattern, between the †educational † and the † preparation † maps. The feasibleness of proposals for alteration in instructor public presentation should be judged against the existent restraints of the learning context. The personal sensitiveness indispensable to effectual counciling and preparation is best developed within the security of a system or † paradigm † of counselor-teacher interaction. Observation should be systematic and focused, with rating based on grounds available to the instructor. Reding should steer the instructor toward specific, mensurable, and moderate alterations in behaviour. Examination of theses rules offers an indicant of the scheme of the CDELT attack to supervisor readying. The CDELT offers a full-time class of 24 hebdomads. It includes 20 hebdomad class work in four blocks of 5 hebdomads each, and one 4-week block of practical experience, in the center of five blocks. During the first two blocks, along with classs related to linguistic communication betterment, there are talks and seminars in debut to linguistics, theories of English linguistic communication instruction, and learning methods. Theses satisfy the demand to set up perceptual experiences of what linguistic communication is, what instruction is, and alternate attacks to the instruction of English. Over the diploma class as a whole, we aim to integrate into supervisor readying the five indispensable purposes of instructor instruction identified by, which among them guarantee theoretical grasp and practical application: principle, experience, observation, test and integrating.2.7 DecisionThe purpose of this chapter has been to supply the layout of the Egyptian educational system so as to give the reader an overview about the context in which this survey is connected, clarifying why this survey is of import for Egyptian instruction in general and linguistic communication instruction in Egypt in peculiar. Furthermore, the chapter reveals the alterations and fortunes that have been underway for about two decennaries now. These alterations are represented by proposing and planing new attacks, rules and weaponries for the general instruction, and in peculiar, for EFL acquisition and instruction. The undermentioned chapter is chiefly devoted to reexamining the literature related to EFl instructor readying programme and the function of microteaching in bettering their instruction public presentation.Abdel-WAHAB, A. ( January 2008 ) . Modeling Students ‘ Purpose to Adopt E-learning: A Case From Egypt. Turkish Online Journal of Distance Education-TOJDE, 9, 157-167.Arbors, R. , & A ; Gaies, S. ( Eds. ) . ( 1997 ) . Clinical supervising of linguistic communication instruction: the supervising as trainer and pedagogue Cambridge university imperativeness.Crookes, G. ( Ed. ) . ( 2003 ) . A practicum in TESOL: Professional Development through Teaching Practice: Cambridge University Press.Ginsburb, M. , & A ; Megahed, N. ( Eds. ) . ( 2009 ) . Comparative Positions on Teachers, Teaching and Professionalism Springer.Hargreaves, E. ( 1997 ) . The sheepskin disease in Egypt: Learning, instruction and the monster of the secondary departure certification. . Appraisal in Education, 4, 1 61-167.Herrera, L. ( Ed. ) . ( 2007 ) . Higher Education in the Arab World: Springer.Higher Education in Egypt: Reappraisals of National Policies for Education. ( 2010 ) . ) .Holliday, A. ( Ed. ) . ( 1996 ) . Large-and small-class civilizations in Egyptian university schoolrooms: a cultural justification for course of study alteration. : Cambrigde University imperativeness.Ibrahim, H. ( 2008 ) . The strategic reading procedures of Egyptian EFL scholars. Exeter University.Metcalfe, A. ( Ed. ) . ( 2008 ) . Speculating Research Policy: A Model for Higher Education: Springer.The Report: Egypt 2009. ( 2009 ) . ) : Oxford concern group.Said, M. , & A ; Mourad, M. ( Eds. ) . ( 2008 ) . Egypt. Baston: Baston College Center for International Higher Education.Schaub, M. ( 2000 ) . English in the Arab Republic of Egypt. World Englishes, 19 ( 2 ) , 225-238.Appendix 1 Menoufia University mission, purposes and Strategic AimsPurposeStrategic aims1A alumnus who is compatible with the modern-day cha llenges Bettering the quality of the educational procedure harmonizing to the both the local and international criterions. Associating theA educationA withA theA issuesA of bothA societyA andA localA environment. Effective leading of pupils. Bettering the wellness and societal attention of the pupils. Increasing the competitory capablenesss of the alumnuss in the labour market.2An first-class staff member. Accurate choice of the instruction and back uping staff members. Sustainability of the integrated development of the instruction and back uping staff members. Effective motive of the instruction and back uping staff members. Continuous public presentation assessment of the instruction and back uping staff members. Advanced systems for advancing the instruction and supportingA staff members.3Advanced academic research to be oriented by the intents of the national comprehensive development programs. Constructing an advanced academic base for the scientific research. Associating the scientific research with the issues of the comprehensive development programs at the national degree.4Promoting values and ideal rules. Developing and intensifying the belongingness to Egypt. Constructing the positive personality. Guaranting the values and committedness. Guaranting and esteeming the university ‘s values and traditions.5Civilized society and developing environment. Directing and utilizing the scientific research to function the development demands of the environment. Freedom of sentiment and protection of rational belongings. Bettering the quality of life. Developing consciousness of the cultural heritage. Developing the sense of beauty and encouraging creativeness. Developing the environmental consciousness. Promoting the behaviours that are compatible with the society development.6Distinguished position of the University in the development procedure of the instruction system. Distinguishing the university from others al both the local and international degrees. Bettering the society ‘s trust and convection of the university ‘s roleA and accomplishments. Triping the university ‘s parts in the local and internationalA academic motion. More effectual function of the university in the current development systems of the higher instruction and scientific research.7Effective administrative system. Bettering the organisation of the university ‘s councils and commissions. Bettering the university ‘s organisational and occupation constructions. Computerizing both the administrative and fiscal systems. Bettering the forming facets of the university ‘s fiscal and private concern units. Bettering the choice procedure of the non-academic leaders and the administrative staff. Continuous development of abilities and accomplishments of administrative staff. Effective motive of the administrative staff. Effective public presentation assessment and controlling of the administrative system.

African American Literature Essay

African American writing is outstandingly interesting, and very informative. All African American writers observe cultural dealing in related and diverse understandings. The three stories that I decided to talk about in this task is â€Å"To my old Master† by Jourdon Anderson, â€Å"My White Folks Treated us Good† by Marriah Hines, and â€Å"If we must die† by Claude McKay. In these stories they observed prejudice, discrimination, and inclusive behaviors throughout the years. The writers open the reader’s eyes to things that were going on in each writer’s life. We will see that each writer was going through the same thing being an African American in America. â€Å"My White Folks treated us good† by Marriah Hines (p. 32). She talked about how her master took care of them by nourishing, the way he dressed them and how he did not hold them back from them developing. The women were right when she said it was exploitation of former slaves. She specified â€Å"Some unfortunate individuals practically have nothing to eat. Why, the way their owners treated them was disgraceful treated them like felines and canines† (Hines, p.32). Hines made remarks about how her master did not permit them to work on Sundays because it was a day for rest. Hines made it clear how nice it was to work for the master that she worked for. She was treated with respect she was not beaten, raped or injured by her master. She told the readers the different between her master and other masters, how others so him as an African American lover. Her master was a religious person went to church and always encourage the slaves to go to church also but did not care if they did not. Even when the slaves were set free the slaves wanted to stay. â€Å"Most of us stayed right there and raised our own crops. † (p. 34). She concluded the way she was able to survive was because of her master. When the slaves became free Hines master gave them cows and mules in order to be successful running their own farms. She was free but she remained loyal to her master and his family until he died and the family moved away. In the story â€Å"To my old Master† by Jourdon Anderson, this is a letter in return t previous correspondence f his old master. The master want Anderson and his family to come back and work for him, is this master being weak, because the slaves did all the work nad things not getting done. The reader can see how the master mistreats the slaves. Anderson states, â€Å"Although you shot at me twice before I left you, I did not want to hear of your being hurt, and I am glad you still living†. (p. 15). Anderson continues to have a discussion on how he and his family are doing well after slavery how their new life is just that new. He tells the master how his kids are getting an education, and how well he is doing making money. One of things that Anderson was afraid of if he went back to work for the old master and that was would he be treated like the last time. The reader knows that Anderson wife Mandy is against going back because she does not believe that things will not change. I think Anderson did not feel commutable going back either because of what he said â€Å"We have concluded to test your sincerity by asking you to send us our wages for the time we served you† (p. 16). How Anderson seen it this was a step toward healing the broken working relationship between him and his master. What Anderson wanted was to be paid back for all the work that he put in. He served his master for 32 years and his wife served for 20 years. Anderson continues to discuss how the master mistreated women and how he was afraid of bring his daughter back in to that environment. Anderson stated â€Å"I would stay here and starve and die, if it comes to that then to have my girl bought to shame by violence and wickedness of their master†. (p. 16). Anderson was harboring about going back but I think he knew he could not go back to his old master. By doing that it was a step back and not a move forward. â€Å"If we must die† this poem is by Claude McKay. This was a poem about how African Americans people were horribly treated by White Americans. This poem discuss about how African Americans stood up for themselves, if it took physical or even if it cost their life. McKay stated â€Å"though far be more numerous than let us show us courageous. Like men we’ll face the murderous, cowardly pack, pressed to the wall, dying but fighting back† (p. 378). This statement is a strong statement. The author was trying to tell the African American men that even when things don’t look good and it don’t look like a way out just keep fighting. In the poem â€Å"If we must die† McKay states â€Å"If we must die, let it not be like a hog, hunted and penned in an inglorious spot† (p. 378). Even today we as African Americans still find ourselves fighting to be part of America. The problems that ascend with African Americans are being used just because of the color of our skins. The event with Trayvon Martin the young 17 year old boy shot down because of the way he dressed and the way the young man looked. To this day we are still dealing with racism and it seems like America will always have to deal with racism. Civilization still has not come as far as they would like to have faith in. America has taken its chances to change and to make a harmony with every American. As we have read these stories from three different writers they all have something in common and that was that they were dealing with the same problem. All three writers was part of that culture that was oppressed and left to be defeated. But as one of the writers said when things are bad and we keep getting beat up just keep fighting and we will progress through.

Appraisal Theory The Effects On Skin Psychology Essay

Appraisal Theory The Effects On Skin Psychology Essay This report aims to replicate a classic finding in biopsychology research which proposed, that increases in task difficulty lead to increases in arousal. As well as to present any individual differences that angle off from this, that possibly could be accounted by the appraisal theory. One hundred and two individuals took part in a task called Speedy Pizzas where they had to deliver successfully a vast quantity of pizzas as the level of difficulty increased. The individuals were represented with a total of 5 levels of difficulty, beginning from level 1 (10 pizzas per minute) to level 5 (50 pizzas per minute). This experiment used a repeated measures design where each individual participated at both levels of task difficulty. The outcome showed that there was a significant increase in GSR as task engagement got more challenging. Although, that the overall GSR test showed increase, individual differences might suggest otherwise. Introduction To begin with, this paper will first examin e some relevant background on the former literature on a classic biopsychology discoveries based on task performance and its association with increase in skin conductance in an attempt to replicate its findings. Afterwards, it will address some individual variations that might have a crucial role in that correlation. A number of researchers over the years have shown that task attainment of individuals is closely knit together with increase in skin conductance. For instance, Kahneman, Trusky et al. (1969 cited in Pecchinenda and Smith 1996) experiment, showed the relationship between skin resistance levels and mental arithmetic task at three layers of difficulty and encountered that skin resistance decreased as difficulty of each level increased. Nonetheless, this connection between them is often distinct, there are cases that the individuals disengage from the task by resigning which is shown in the form of decreasing responses in the GSR levels whilst the task engagement becomes pa rticularly difficult. This occurrence can be placed under the theory of the appraisal model proposed by Smith and Lazarus (1993 cited in Pecchinenda and Smith 1996) that suggested that the amount of each individual’s focusing resources is established by their appraisal of task-solving coping potential. The above theory has been adapted in various studies, one of them was measuring accomplishment in a demanding mental task. (Pecchinenda and Smith 1996) Pecchinenda and Smith’s study wanted to demonstrate the direct association between a cognitive task engagement and the appraisal of each individuals coping potential. Thus, subjects were presented by series of anagrams, that they were called to solve, in various circumstances whilst their GSR was continuously observed. The level of difficulty diverse between each anagram by either having an easy, moderately difficult and extremely difficult anagram as well as the amount of time available that participants had to solve it changed between 30 sec and 120 sec. Results showed that participants coping potential varied between them, since the perception that each subject experienced the situation was different. Paradigm, when an individual appraised their task-solving ability with having a high coping potential approached the task with the attempt to achieve their goal and successfully complete the task. On the contrary, people who appraised the situation as overwhelming and the â€Å"task as virtually impossible† (Pecchinenda and Smith, page 486) had low coping potential and therefore disengaged from the task. Hence, apposite to the skin conductance activity there was a general increase in the GSR levels when the task-solving trials were aligned with the participants’ engagement in the trials. However, this increase dropped dramatically when the anagrams level of difficulty was extremely demanding as a result of the paltry levels of task engagement. An interesting feature about this study th at shouldn’t be obscured was that the correlation between skin conductance activity and task engagement is not absolute. There are other aspects that might intrude and mislead this association. As in that the correlation between GSR and other components such as stress, perception of the circumstance, negative feelings etc resulted as having an impact on the GSR, Nikula (1991 cited in Pecchinenda and Smith 1996). Another related experiment was conducted by Bohlin (1976). Bohlin’s study manipulated the levels of arousal by having participants to response after a number of trials whilst they were in physiological habituation state. She divided the subjects into three groups, the first group were told to relax when listening to a tone, the second one were given arithmetic tasks to solve and the third one a threat of shock was added to the task performance. Results showed that the Shock-threat group had the highest mean in conductance level and the Relax group had the lowes t mean in GSR. Thus, this produces some evidence showing how  increases in task difficulty result in various increases in physiological arousal.

The Antitrust Battle Ahead Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Antitrust Battle Ahead - Essay Example It may so happen that the merged organizations gains at the expense of the consumer. This is where the government chips in, through its antitrust regulations. The government reserves the right, and rightly so, to intervene and block any merger deal which it feels would reduce competition in the industry and thereby adversely affect the consumers, either by way of high prices or by way of low quality. In some cases, these mergers may lead to less innovation thus indirectly putting consumers at a loss. Section 7 of the Clayton Act disallows mergers and acquisitions when such transactions may significantly lower competition, or may create a monopoly, or may lead to formation of cartels (Federal Trade Commission 2011). Simply put, the purpose of antitrust legislations is to enforce laws that promote competitive markets. These laws thus ensure efficient allocation of resources in a free market and prevent market failures. The focal point of antitrust economics is competition (Scheffman 2002). It is competition that is at the heart of many important business decisions and to a large extent determines the firms pricing strategies and tactics. The Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Competition, along with the Bureau of Economics is entrusted with the enforcement of such antitrust laws in the United States. The FTC and Department of Justice review scores of merger filings every year of which 95 percent have no competitive issues (Federal Trade Commission 2011). The first category consists of merger proposals wherein the competitive concerns can be resolved by mutual consent of the parties concerned. The revised merger proposal, so arrived after negotiations, retains the beneficial aspects of the deal and discards the threat. The federal regulators negotiated a settlement in the proposed merger deal of Comcast and NBC Universal. As a part of the revised deal, Comcast agreed to give up

The Irish Famine Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Irish Famine - Essay Example The famine, which is also referred to as The Great Hunger, and The Bad Life, and its impact was terrible in terms of demographic decline, triggering off the mass emigration. From a prominent exporter of food, Ireland was reduced to the most unenviable position with its people, leaving the homeland, dying under deplorable conditions on the way to England, Scotland or America or any country that they could find a way to. Ograda writes the book with the intention of providing 'fresh perspectives by an explicitly interdisciplinary and comparative approach comparing the Irish famine with the Third World Famines'. He says one of the main differences between the two is while Irish famine killed people in a large scale and other famines did not, at least not to that extent, though all famines produce individual tragedies. Unlike today's famines that usually happen in the impoverished areas, Irish famine was in the prosperous hub, which Prince Albert called 'the workshop of the world'. (p.5). The pleas for help were treated with the philosophical context, when the Economist answered the requests with a curt "It is no man's business to provide for another.' (p. 6). It was also treated as a natural retribution that the Irish should suffer as a penance. "Many people in high places in both London and Dublin in the 1840s believed that the famine was nature's response to Irish demographic irresponsibility, and t oo much public kindness would obscure that message" (p.6). Potato had been cultivated more as a garden crop in Ireland and an average yield of approximately 6 tons per acre was recorded just before the famine. It was believed that Ireland was highly suitable for potato cultivation due to its acidic soil, damp, temperate climate. When the famine happened, the country was unprepared to a calamity of that scale, and landlords most of them living in England, belonging to the noble cause, could not, or did not do enough to help their farmers. Even though this is the popular conception, Ograda argues that most landlords themselves were insolvent and they were not in a position to help their tenants. During the famine, a large number of landlords lost their ownership of the land. There were other problems like over-cultivation of a rage of potato varieties, adverse consequences of industrial revolution, confiscation of the land in the earlier centuries that left the ownership in the hands of British landlords etc. When famine started and the early deaths were reported, the official reaction was to call for the verification of deaths. An enormous crisis was simmering and by late 1840s 'famine symptoms of wandering beggars, roadside deaths, rising crime rates, poorly attended burials, widespread panic about contagion, and mass evictions were commonplace throughout most of the country'. The situation raged for another five years, unabated and Ograda says that the long-lasting nature of the famine led to compassion fatigue and charitable donations dropped steadily while land clearance and emigration reached a massive scale. Prevention strategies included initially identifying the most vulnerable poor and help them through the relief committees established by the Poor Relief (Ireland) Act of 1838. Admission into the workhouses rose ominously; but the representatives of Board of Guardians refused more money for relief measures. Relief Commissioners and

Capital punishment Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Capital punishment - Research Paper Example Advocates of death penalty argue that it should be given to hardcore criminals in order to reduce or control crime rates in a country whereas critics believe that death penalty should be avoided in all circumstances, as it is not a proper mean to punish criminals in a civilized world like ours. This paper analyses various dimensions of death penalty in detail. One of the major arguments against capital punishment is that â€Å"it never allows a criminal to change his behavior as in the case of other forms of punishments† (Kartha). It should be noted that the character of a human can be changed as time goes on. Nobody will get a second chance to live or correct his mistakes once he has been given capital punishment. Life is the most precious thing in this world and it should be honored and respected as much as possible. Even after huge developments, in science and technology, the secrets behind life are still unknown to us. Only the creator knows the secrets of his creations. U nder these circumstances, critics of death penalty argue that killing of a criminal may not be the suitable way of punishment. In their opinion, both the criminal and the criminal justice system do the same thing while declaring capital punishment to a criminal. ... One of the major core principles of the criminal justice system is that no innocent person should be punished even if thousands of criminals escaped. However, these principles are often been violated by the courts. Nobody can guarantee that court procedures are free of errors. Humans can commit mistakes. If that is true, courts controlled by human elements can also commit mistakes. It should be noted that after taking a life, nobody can return it once the offenders realize their mistakes. The above principle is true in the case of courts also. According to Kantian ethical theories, â€Å"even a person guilty of murder is to be treated with a certain sort of dignity, because even the murderer is still a person -- still an end in himself† (Stairs). If capital punishment is unethical and illegal, the question, how hardcore criminals should be handled or punished, is relevant. Nobody can assure that criminals such as Osama Bin Laden may change their behavior over a period of time. If they were released from jails, they may continue their criminal behavior and innocent civilians may lose their lives again. Under these circumstances, supporters of capital punishment argue that hardcore criminals should be executed with immediate effect in order to save the lives of others. In their opinion, a criminal who is responsible for killing innocent people does not have the right to live in this world. â€Å"It is said that when a criminal is given a capital punishment, it dissuades others in the society from committing such serious crimes. They would refrain from such crimes due to fear of losing their lives†( Kartha). In the absence of severe punishments such as capital punishment, the motivation for criminal activities may increase

Project Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Project Management - Essay Example Microsoft Project is one of the most widely used tools for Project Management as well as for Work breakdown structure. However, there are other alternate software available as well that could facilitate the project managers in managing the project. This report discusses about the use of alternate Project Management software, Project Libre. Project Libre has been one of the most downloaded project management tools in different countries. The software is used in a number of geographic locations as presented in the image below: (Project Libre a, 2013) With 99,770 downloads of the software, this software was one of the most used project management software (Project Libre a, 2013). Therefore this software has been selected in order to compare against Microsoft Project. Project Libre is alternate software to Microsoft Project. Project Libre can also breakdown the project into smaller tasks just like Microsoft Project. Project Libre has also been awarded "Best of Open Source" or BOSSIE awar d by InfoWorld (Project Libre b, 2013). Thus, this confirms the quality of the software and how helpful the software has been around the world particularly for project managers. This report uses the software Project Libre and then a comparison has been presented using the two tools, Microsoft Project and Project Libre. Evaluation of the techniques used have also been presented in this report for the project Enterprise Rent-A-Car. MICROSOFT PROJECT MANAGEMENT TOOLS USED In order to accomplish the project of ‘Enterprise Rent-A-Car’, the project management team has divided the overall project into following smaller tasks. By dividing the smaller tasks, the project management team can better manage the project and make sure that each of the tasks is handled well. By doing so, it will allow the project management team to make sure that the project is completed within the time. The following table shows the activities that are to be completed for this project of Enterprise Re nt-A-Car along with their duration and their predecessors: No. Task Days Predecessor 1 TM Team Development 1 week 2 E-learning Software Purchase 2 weeks 3 E-learning Courses Design 2 weeks 2 4 Hacks Portal 4 weeks 5 Portal Content Set Up 2 weeks 4 6 Trainer Contract 4 weeks 7 TL Training 16 weeks 6 8 Current Training Evaluation 8 weeks 9 Retraining (Current Staff) 16 weeks 7;8 10 PBL Evaluation 8 weeks 9 11 Training (New Trainees) 26 weeks 7 The above tasks are used on two different software; Microsoft Project and Project Libre. The techniques for both the software are evaluated and discussed. Gantt Chart Using Project Libre and Microsoft Project Gantt chart is used to present the tasks of the project along with the starting date and the ending date of that particular task (Cleland, and Gareis, 2006). Modern Gantt chart has started to include the predecessor as well that shows the dependency of that particular task. This allows the project manager to identify the starting as well as the ending date of each task and thus the project can be analyzed. Both the software Microsoft Project as well as Project Libre allow the users to create the Gantt Chart. Project Libre has a similar style and user experience than Microsoft Project. Both the software when starts show a tabular form along with the space for Gantt Chart. As activities or tasks are added in the tabular form, the Gantt chart starts to fill up. As all the information about the activities are added, the Gantt chart

Personal statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 28

Personal Statement Example Hence, my path to pursue a degree in nursing was not a very smooth one. However if I can have the zeal to pursue this passion, it will motivate others to do the same in a positive manner. One of my greatest achievements is the fact that I have always taken pride in my work ethic. As a second year in adult nursing training, I have been exposed to the medical environment at a very early age. I have seen how the person giving care can make all the difference in a patient’s life. As a result, I started to do voluntary work for charity in an elderly people’s home. I have first handed scarcity of exceptional medical care, but also be deprived of immediate attention at times because of its scarcity, and still leave happy with gratitude regardless to the waiting time. This has led me to understand the value of nursing care that is so essential to provide absolute care for those who need it the most. A part of me believes that the gratitude being a caregiver via my volunteering is what served as a catalyst for this passion. I loved the fact that I was able to provide care for them, which manifested in their gratitude. It wasn’t until I started working in a hospital that I got a clear understanding of how I want to proceed in my journey to become a nurse. One of the most challenging elements I had to endure during my endeavor in nursing is to follow my passion, even if it meant that the field was not lucrative. I worked extremely hard to bring my family from oversees as depicted through working in two nursing homes. It taught me the value of my passion, and that I want to do something that is fulfilling in my life. Most individuals will never understand that because they merely work for money. As depicted through my tenure, I have always been focused on harnessing my academic development and strongly feel that obtaining an admission would be a logical

International Business Cultures Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 3

International Business Cultures - Essay Example Globalized business environment causes the flow of human resources from one nation to the other. Managers and employees are required to communicate with people from different backgrounds in a globalized business environment. It is essential for international business concerns while operating in a foreign nation to be able to adapt themselves with the cultural beliefs and values existing in the society of the host country (Bennett, Aston and Colquhoun, 2000). In this reflective report the cultural difference existing between the nations of the U.K. and China have been studied. Both the U.K. and Chinese organizations are observed to have distinctive cultures. The cultural dissonance existing between these nations have been analysed in this report. From my perspective, it is important to study the cultural difference existing between different nations as it helps in taking measures for bridging the gap and develop business ties across international boundaries. The difference in the cultural perspectives is seen to arise from the difference in governance, value system, social thinking, attitude and behaviour. The cultural dissonance acts as a barrier for effective communication. This paper speaks about the cultural differences existing between the U.K. and China as understood by me. The analysis and research work that was conducted by me reveal that employees in the U.K. interact in a casual manner while transacting business or communicating with each other. Casual relationships are seen to be a part of their organizational culture. Business entities are seen to communicate with each other directly in a less formal manner. The U.K. based organizations believe that when casual relationships enhance direct attachments. The direct associations between different organizations are important to transact more efficiently. In the context of China

Rationale Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Rationale - Essay Example s with specialized skill set, I have the advantage and prerequisites and can sign up for the course immediately, with the potentialities knocking at my door. As such after applying proper thought I have opted for, among others, the following group of subjects: Foundations of Leadership, Consumer Behavior, Principles of Marketing and Business & Economic History of the US. Foundations of Leadership and Principles of Marketing and Business & Economic History of the US should be of immense help to me in bettering my career prospectus. After graduation, I wish to join some multinational organization as a Marketing Executive to get exposed to the ground realties of marketing and interacting with the customers. My concentration is marketing/advertising for the sports industry with a coaching minor. I foresee immense scope for development of sports good industry. After getting sufficient marketing experience, I have plans to establish my own small scale unit to manufacture sports goods. Leadership is a quality needed most in every area, private as well as public relations. To me, educational and career advancement are alternative beats of the same heart and the degree in Bachelor of Science with major in Integrative Studies lays the foundation for a professional career. The sampling of several disciplines will provide to me a well-rounded education. By working in a multinational organization as stated above, and by gaining practical marketing experience, I am sure that I will be able to succeed in my business venture of establishing a sports goods manufacturing

Transport and Maritime Traffic Essay Example for Free

Transport and Maritime Traffic Essay Cost is an important factor which trading industries will have to consider. In Europe and North America the proportion of development of road and rail is the highest at 25 to 35 per cent. Thus, trade is predominantly transacted by road and rail. Cargo between countries without a common border is carried mainly by sea because of the growth rates for air freight are more than double those for shipping in recent years. In comparison to transporting via ocean freight and air freight, maritime traffic is considerably much cheaper. Airlines bills a chargeable weight. Chargeable weight is calculated from a combination of the weight and size of a shipment. Whereas, sea carriers charge per container rates for shipping in standard containers. For example; while a standard shipment shipped from Singapore to Europe costs Sgd5000, the same shipment might cost up to Sgd35,000 via air freight. While weight can factor into the price from sea carriers, their charge tends to be based more on the size of a shipment. Thus, with larger and heavier shipments, it is much cheaper to ship by sea. Thus, the main advantage of marine transportation is its economies of scale making it the cheapest per unit of all transport modes which is one of the important factors as to why maritime traffic is growing. According to data statistics UK, US, EU, NZ and many other countries marine government data statistics show that maritime traffic holds the highest transportation statistics in the country. Growth in World Trade via globalization As mentioned in the introductory paragraph, the main reason behind the growth in maritime traffic is the growth in globalization. In the past, the WTO provided a new cycle to world trade whereby China’s economic opening led to their admission to the WTO in 2001 causing its exports to increase 4times within 5 years. Another example of integrated markets boosting international trade are exports from Mexico to the USA within 6 years of NAFTA being established. This measure taken by WTO helped newly-industrializing emerging economies, particularly China and India, for energy and mineral resources. These resources had to be transported regionally via marine traffic. This led to increasing quantities of goods being transported from far-distant countries via ships. (http://worldoceanreview. com/en/wor-1/transport/global-shipping/3/WTO). The growth in globalization causes the growth in maritime traffic as well. This had and is still causing a steady growth in maritime traffic as well. This is evident via the statistics review by the United Nations marine trade which shows that Around 80 per cent of the volume of international trade in goods is carried by sea, and the percentage is even higher for most developing countries. Thus, globalization has played a huge role as to why maritime traffic has and is growing. †¢Effective mode of transportation Physical properties of the various modes of transportation available also play a key role as to why maritime traffic is growing. Due to the physical properties of water conferring buoyancy and limited friction, maritime transportation is the most effective mode of transportation to move large quantities of cargo. The approximate maximum takeoff weight for air cargo planes is~910,000. worlds longest, heaviest trains. Demonstration union train-WTO†). Road transportation have both weight and distance constraints which will be the least option to consider for bulk and far distance transportation. Whereas, bulk carriers ships are designed to carry specific commodities. They include the largest tankers, the Ultra Large Crude Carriers which are up to ~500,000 dwt. (Aragon, James R. ; Messer, Tuuli Anna (2001). Masters handbook on ships business. Cambridge, Md: Cornell Maritime Press). In July 2009,the global merchant fleet consisted of a total of 53,005 vessels. In all, the global merchant fleet has a capacity of ~1192 million dwt. (http://worldoceanreview. com/en/wor-1/transport/global-shipping/3/). Thus, it is evident that maritime transportation is the only feasible mode of transportation for bulk shipping such as coal, minerals, oil tankers and other bulky goods for companies which needs to ship a large amount of goods at once, with longer lead times. This is one of the reasons as to why there is a growth in maritime traffic. (III)Conclusion Despite the fact that maritime transportation has high terminal costs since port infrastructures are among the most expensive to build, maintain and improve; maritime traffic is growing. As mentioned above, due to reasons such as cost efficiency, global trading and most effective transportation of heavy and bulky goods with long lead times; as long as there is world trade there will definitely be a demand and growth in maritime traffic.

Egyptian Mythology Essay Example for Free

Egyptian Mythology Essay Mythology is a collection of stories believed to be true by any culture, where these stories are used to interpret and explain natural and supernatural phenomenon. Myths play a prominent role in religion. The abstract concept of god that is dealt with by religion is made concrete through the development of myths. Earliest mythologies concerned themselves with the immense powers of nature which might have confounded the brain of the primitive human beings. Therefore they worshipped nature rain, sun, water, wind, animals, birds, and trees. The evolution of mythology started with a feeling of terror and awe when confronted with these forces of nature over which man had very little power (Conway, 1876). The brain of human beings is constructed in such a manner that it seeks explanations for events. It is wired to look for causes behind consequences. Human beings used myths to provide reasons for the manner in which nature functioned. For example, thunder was considered to be the anger of gods. Many temples were built in order to propitiate the gods of their myths. Some of the most famous temples of Ancient Egypt are Abu Simbel, Abydos, Karnak, Luxor, and Ramesseum. Myths of different characteristics are found in ancient Egypt †¢ origin myths, †¢ ritual myths, †¢ creation myths, †¢ social myths, and †¢ eschatological myths. Of these, the creation myths are most interesting from the point of view of Egyptian mythology as well as those of other mythologies. According to the Egyptian mythology, there are three different cosmogonies: first involves the emergence of land and life from primordial waters known as Neith, second involves the creation of Ra from the interaction of water, air, darkness and eternity, and the third one is similar to the Judeo-Christian creation myth whereby Ptah, the eternal god, spoke and all creation was manifested. Origin of life for the Egyptians begins with the creation of the nine primeval deities known as Pesedjet. Out of these deities the most important one is Atum, who is known to be the ‘complete one’ or the ‘one absolute’. He is created from the primordial soup known as Neith. His breath becomes dryness and semen becomes moisture. Through an interaction of dryness and moisture, emerge the earth and sky. They separated to form life and death, and desert and fertile land. The creation of earth and life from chaos is a theory central to the Hindu, Cherokee, Babylonian, Nordic and Germanic mythologies. The other important motifs of creation myths are the separation of the male (father) and female (mother) gods, emergence of land from water and the creation of everything from nothing. According to the Ancient Finns, the world is formed from a broken egg. In ancient Egyptian mythology, the sun god, Ra, opened in an egg. As life exists because of the energy derived from sunlight, it is easy to notice that the creation of life is linked to the creation of the sun. Origin myths are known as aetiologies. They are used to explain the causes of certain cult myths. They are related to the creation myths in the sense that they explain the causes of the creation myths. Many animals were considered sacred. Nowhere is this more evident than in Egyptian mythology. The Egyptian pantheon was essentially zoomorphic. Some of the common sacred animals of the ancient Egyptian pantheon are Anubis, the jackal or dog; Apis, the bull; Hathor, the cow; Horus, the falcon; Satis, the gazelle; Sekhmet, the lioness; and Selket, the scorpion. All these animals were attributed with divine powers but the god himself or herself (as the case may be) was anthropomorphic. Gods created good and evil. Thus there was no need for a devil in ancient Egypt (Conway, 1876). Propitiating the gods with rites and rituals bestowed men with good fortune. For the ancient Egyptians though, it was not life that was important. They placed immense import on the after-life. All of life was a preparation for life after death. All the Egyptian myths speak about the after-life at some point or the other. In order to explain what happened to human beings after death, they believed that the soul of a person goes into a judgement hall by Anubis. The heart of the dead person is weighed on a balancing scale against a single feather that symbolizes Ma’at, who stands of truth. If the heart is outweighed by the feather, the dead soul goes to ‘live’ in the presence of Osiris, who is the lord of the after-life. If the heart outweighs the feather, Ammit, who is part lion, part crocodile and part hippopotamus, eats the heart. The reason for this is that a heavy heart is one that is burdened by sin and guilt and a light heart is a pure one (Budge, 1991). One of the most prominent deities in the ancient Egyptian mythology is the sun. Many deities were associated with the sun such as Bast, Bat, Hathor, Menhit, Nut, Sekhmet and Wadjet. The sun’s god was known as Ra who was the creator of everything. He was represented by a man’s body and a hawk’s head and holding a sceptre and an ankh. Horus was another representative of the sun. The sun would travel across the sky every day in a barque and travel in the underworld during the night. Ra would fight a battle with Apep everyday during darkness in order to remerge during the day. After their death, the members of the royal household were believed to travel with the sun each day in the barque. The kings considered themselves to be the sons of the sun and therefore, a Pharaoh was born divine. The king was ‘Son of Amen’ and therefore a personification of the sun, the father (Bard, 1999). The concept lingers to this day in the form of Jesus Christ who is the son of God, the Father. Jesus is in absolute likeliness of the God, the Father. Sun has similar importance in the mythologies of other cultures too. The Aztecs worshipped the sun as Toniatiuh, ‘movement of the sun’ in Nahuatl. For them, sun was the leader of heaven. According to them, the present sun was the fifth sun with its own cosmological time span. There were four other suns before this one. According to the Chinese cosmology there were ten suns. Hou Yi was the hero who shot nine of the ten suns so that there would just enough light and heat to sustain the planet. Most Vedic hymns are dedicated to Surya, the sun god. Savita was the personification of the deity. There were twelve Adityas or solar deities. Ancient Egyptian mythology is rift with rituals. Rituals were central to the religion, state and culture of this great civilization. Many texts were used to assist in the rituals †¢ Books of Breathing, †¢ Book of the Earth, †¢ Book of the Dead, †¢ Book of the Netherworld, †¢ Book of the Gates, †¢ Book of Caverns and †¢ Amduat. Of these, the Book of the Dead is most famous. It contains many spells and incantations. It was buried along with the dead in order to help them pass through the underworld in a safe manner. The ancient Egyptian funerary rituals included mummification, casting of incantations and spells, and burial. The bodies of the dead were mummified because the ancient Egyptians believed that the soul needed to the body even after death. The mummified bodies were buried along with many grave goods such as tools, implements, jewels, clothes and weapons. Many mummies would be placed in funerary boats. Burial rituals were always accompanied by funerary literature. For a long time it was thought that mummification was unique to the ancient Egyptians until mummies began to be discovered by archaeologists in China and Latin America. The process of mummification also appears to have been similar and they also appear to have been accompanied by rituals and incantations. The presence of megalithic structures in ancient Egypt has interesting parallels in Crete, Ireland, and even Melanesia. These are a group of complex building built in a labyrinthine fashion near a lake. They associated essentially with animal sacrifice and funerary rituals (Campbell, 1959). Ancient Egyptian mythologies extend even to the trees. They considered that a spirit dwelled in a leafy-tree and that there was a well of water at the bottom of the tree. Some of the common sacred trees in Egypt were the sycamore, palm, and persea (Buhl, 1947). Hathor, the cow was also known as a tree-goddess in the Old Kingdom and many tree-goddess cults prevailed in that region. Hathor was also known as ‘The Mistress of the Southern Sycamore’. Not only females but even males were associated with tree divinity. â€Å"He who is under a moringa tree† was a common statement in tree cults and referred to various tree deities. Mythologies abound even today in many religious systems. Many Judeo-Christians believe that the Genesis is a literal account of creation. It has sparked many a controversy with the evolutionary theory of life. Comparative mythologists such as Joseph Campbell and Rollo May claim that the loss of connection with ancient myths is one of the causes of greatest concerns for the modern man. Myths act as guides. They are the signposts of the soul. The stories they tell are very similar to the lives we lead. The morals they provide are sure to help man in solving the problems of his own life. REFERENCES: http://www. solarnavigator. net/egyptian_solar_boat. htm Moncure D. Conway, â€Å"On Mythology†. The Journal of the Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland, Vol. 5, (1876), pp. 202-212. Budge, E. A. Wallis, â€Å"Egyptian Religion: Egyptian Ideas of the Future Life (Library of the Mystic Arts)†. Citadel Press. August 1, 1991. Kathryn Bard, â€Å"`Encyclopedia of the Archeology of Ancient Egypt†. Routledge. 1999. Joseph Campbell, â€Å"Primitive Mythologies†. Penguin Books. 1959. Marie-Louise Buhl, â€Å"The Goddesses of the Egyptian Tree Cult†. Journal of Near Eastern Studies, Vol. 6, No. 2 (Apr. , 1947), pp. 80-97

Path loss determination using Hata model

Path loss determination using Hata model CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION Path loss is the degradation in received power of an Electromagnetic signal when it propagates through space. Path loss is due to several effects such as free space path loss, refraction, diffraction, reflection, coupling and cable loss, and absorption. Path loss depends on several factors such as type of propagation environments, distance between transmitter and receiver, height and location of antennas. Also the signal from the transmitting antenna may take multiple paths (multipath) to reach the receiving side, which results in either increase or decrease of received signal level depending on the constructive or destructive interference of the multipath waves. Path loss is usually expressed in decibels (db), as this method gives us an easy and consistent method to compare the signal levels at various points. Where Lp is the path loss i.e. the ratio of power of received signal to that of transmitted. Propagation models are used extensively in network planning, particularly for conducting feasibility studies and during initial deployment. They are also very useful for performing interference studies as the deployment proceeds. Numerous Experiments have been carried out all around the world, for checking the applicability of suitable path loss models in mobile communications specific scenario. In those experiments radio engineers carried out signal strength measurement for a specific area and compared the observed output with that of predicted outputs from different widely accepted propagation models so as to find out which model best predict the path loss for the given scenario. Also, some fine tuning for that model are done based on the difference. Many propagation models are available for path loss predictions. Deterministic models are based on the laws of electromagnetic wave propagation and produce accurate predictions of the path loss, however they take high computational effort and require detailed and accurate description of all objects in the propagation path .Free space Model, and Plane Earth model, are easier deterministic propagation methods. Empirical models are based on extensive collection of data for specific case. They are not accurate but predict the most likely behavior the link may exhibit under specific conditions. Okumura carried out a lot of field strength measurements in Tokyo, Japan with varying terrain, frequency antenna height and transmitted power. It states that, the signal strength decreases at much greater rate with distance than that predicted by free space loss .An empirical formula based on Okumuras results has been developed by Hata in order to make the propagation loss prediction easy to apply .Hata gave no of path loss models for urban, suburban and open areas, often called Okamura-Hata model. The European Co-operative for Scientific and Technical Research (COST) extended the Hata model to be valid for PCS(personal communication System) Operating at 1800- 2000 MHz, which is named COST 231 Hata model .The European research group also developed an another model taking Diffraction effect into consideration, which is COST 231 Walfish Ikegami model. Actually, this model is a semi-deterministic model as the path loss calculations is made by combining empirical models with deterministi c techniques [4].wave propagation models for planning of mobile communication network. Theres a North American model called Lees model named after W.C.Y. Lee, which is characterized by two parameters, power at a mile and path loss exponent. Kathmandu is the capital city of our country Nepal with more than 1 million inhabitants. GSM Mobile launched by Nepal Telecom reached almost a decade now with total 3.5 million subscribers, and 1.5 million solely in Kathmandu. With such increase in no. of subscribers, the no of BTS has gone up to 1500 in whole Nepal. Operating with both the frequency 900 and 1800 MHz, there are nearly 500 BTS (BS) in Kathmandu only. With such increase in the no. of Bs in Kathmandu valley due to the growth in No of subscribers, proper planning methods are needed for placing BTS for acceptable field strength and Interference level in the coverage area. Also the Coverage holes are needed to be filled with proper planning. This Planning Requires appropriate propagation models that best predicts the path loss for our specific environment. In this project, the feasibility analysis and fine tuning of Hata and Cost 231 Hata model has been done for propagation environments in Kathmandu. Taking three different areas of Kathmandu namely: Core city area, Ring-road area and Remote areas and five locations are selected for each of the terrain types and Field Strength Measurements offers a better means to understand what path loss model to use in certain propagation environments. Field strength measurements were conducted on the existing GSM 900 MHz Network of Nepal Telecom on the locations of interest. MOTIVATION The demand for increasing mobile subscribers needs efficient extension of a cellular network. For GSM like technology, there is additional complexity in making efficient Allocation of Base Stations and frequency planning. For this, proper path loss models should be used for coverage prediction and interference analysis. Much of the popular path loss models by renowned RF engineers are based on the observation data taken on their own country. So there is need of fine tuning of such model for applicability in our area. To my knowledge, there has not been any published work regarding such models feasibility analysis and modifications.This provides the impetus for this project to make an analysis of the observed data and necessary modification in Hata and Cost 231 Hata model for Kathmandu. Also, the proposed re-farming of 900 MHz frequency spectrum for Future Generation of Mobile Communications provides another drive for this project. It is obvious that use of less frequency yields large coverage area than higher frequencies. Hence, for future generation mobile, Scientist have conceived of making use of 900 MHz spectrum and together with use of newer technologies, they could make efficient utilization of this spectrum. APPLICATIONS This project can be used in realistic planning of GSM networks, with the predicted path loss in Kathmandu. For capacity enhancements of the network, GSM Engineers can use the path loss prediction models for intelligent placement of BTSs with certain antenna height and power. Path loss also facilitates Link budget analysis and Design in a telecommunication system. In a GSM like Cellular network, Path loss is used for Frequency Re-use distance estimates so as to properly space the channels in Base stations (BS). Actual Frequency assignment plans for the Base Stations are also facilitated by the use of path loss. Better Coverage predictions and interference reduction is what planning engineers get by using better path loss model. CHAPTER-2 PATH LOSS MODELS In this chapter, description of various Path Loss model will be discussed. The model characteristics, along with mathematical formulae, will be shown that is useful for further calculations, analysis in this project. In addition, three kinds of dependency factors of path loss will be noted that will be analyzed later. FREE SPACE PATH LOSS This model is the most simple and primitive path loss model where the influence of all objects and obstacles in the propagation environment is ignored. Here, the Received signal is inversely proportional to the square of distance between the transmitter and receiver. So, the free space Path loss is given by As Decibel (db) method gives us easy and consistent method to observe and analyze the signal levels at various points, the free space path loss can also be expressed in logarithmic format as OKAMURA MODEL This model is a RF propagation model that was developed based on the data collected in the Tokyo city, Japan. The model served as a base for all other empirical propagation models. In this model, the propagation area is divided into terrain categories: open area, suburban area, and urban area. Urban area is used as a reference area and Correction factors are applied in it to calculate the path loss for other terrains. HATA MODEL It is also known as the Okumura-Hata model for being a advanced version of the Okumura Model, is the most widely used model in radio frequency propagation for predicting the behavior of cellular transmissions in city outskirts and other rural areas. This model incorporates the graphical information from Okumura model and develops it further to better suit the need . Hata Model predicts the total path loss along a link of terrestrial microwave or other type of cellular communications. Operating frequency, Base Station Antenna height. This model is suited for both point-to-point and broadcast transmissions. COST 231 HATA MODEL It is also called the Hata Model DCS Extension, which is a RF propagation model that extends the Hata Model to cover a more range of frequencies. Also, this model is applicable to Open, Suburban and Urban Areas . PATH LOSS DEPENDENCY FACTORS Path loss usually depends on operating frequency, Base station Antenna Height, and distance of the Mobile stations (MS) from the Base Station (BS). For each of the popular empirical models discussed above, those dependency factors are observed separately and lastly combined together to give a formula for that path loss model. PATH LOSS EXPONENT We know that received signal at a distance from a BS or a transmitter is inversely proportional to some power of the distance, i.e. farther we go from the BS or transmitter, the received level will degrade by some factor. CHAPTER-3 For empirical models, Field strength measurements gives an easy and better way for feasibility analysis and fine tuning of the models for certain propagation environments. In our case, I intend to check the applicability and the modification of Hata and Cost 231 Hata model for propagation environments in Kathmandu. Three different terrains are taken into consideration, namely: Core city area, Ring-Road area, and remote area. Field strength measurements are carried out in fifteen different locations, where five of them belong to one terrain types. Location of BS, Transmitted power, antenna height is taken for the areas of interest in Kathmandu. Field strength measurements were conducted on the existing GSM network of Nepal Telecom and the receiver used was TEMS tool with a mobile set. DRIVE TESTING USING TEMS TEMS is an air interface test tool for real time diagnostic of different parameters for RF optimization. Also, all the data can be saved for later analysis. It consists of a laptop with TEMS software, a mobile set with a connector, GPS for location, and a hardware lock key. As for this project, only the received level is concerned, so the received level is noted as we drive farther from a BS. Above Figure shows the trail of the drive test path through a vehicle, in the location of interest. Here, the distance of a sample point in the trail can easily be noted using a scale in the map. Before performing drive test in all of those sites, proper Information regarding Site locations, their Carrier Frequencies, BS antenna Height, power transmitted from the BS are taken and used in the data collection and Calculations part. ASSUMPTIONS In this project, several assumptions are considered to ease data collection and analysis phase, which are listed as: Though the signal strength measurements are done for different BS with different Carriers (ARFCN), operating frequency is taken to be fixed at 900MHz. The effective power radiated from the BS is taken to be fixed at 50 dbm. Also height of mobile () taken to be fixed at 1.5 meters as the data is measured through TEMS inside a vehicle. Core city area, Ring-road Area and Remote areas in Kathmandu are assumed to be Urban, Sub-urban and Rural area respectively for simplification in analysis and comparison. If that assumption gives different result, then it can be rectified easily based on the integrated analysis of the path loss plot vs distance. MEASURED PATH LOSS For each of the propagation environments which have been selected and drive tested for data collection, the path loss can easily be calculated using the formula: So, Path loss can easily be observed from the collected data, to be increasing as we go farther from the BS. Data Collected for Fifteen different Locations can also be shown in tabular format as: PATH LOSS FROM MODELS After the observation of measured path loss in the propagation environments in Kathmandu, we need to calculate the path loss from the formula for the two models Hata and COST 231 Hata Model, with the distance d of MS from Bs in km, Frequency f in MHz, BS height hb in meters, Antenna height in meters taken from the actual scenario. Calculations are done using Excel sheet and the data are shown as: PATH LOSS PLOTS: As we get all the measured data and predicted data from the two models, the average data of path loss as shown in the table below are plotted with the increasing distance d of MS from BS as shown in the graph below for each propagation environments. COMPARISION AND ANALYSIS From the above plot for each propagation environments, comparing the average path loss values with that of Hata and COST 231 Hata model plot gives the result that Hata model best fits the propagation characteristics in Core city area and Ring-road area whereas the COST 231 model best predicts the propagation characteristics in Remote area. Also the Minimum Square Error (MSE)calculated for each of the model is within acceptable limits, which can be calculated using the formula: From the MSE analysis also, I find that Hata model best fits the Kathmandu Core city area and is also suitable for Kathmandu Ring-road Area. Whereas in the case of Kathmandu Remote Area, Cost 231 Hata model best predicts the path loss characteristics. FINE TUNING OF THE BEST FIT MODEL Due to the least and acceptable MSE in both Ring road area and remote area, the best fit models need not be modified for such propagation environments in Kathmandu. Solely based on the Minimum Square Error in path loss, the Best fit model for Core city area in Kathmandu i.e. Hata model can be modified accordingly. This formula is the modified version of the Path loss in urban area as given by Hata model for application in Kathmandu. CHAPTER-4 RESULTS By the comparison of the actual path loss with that of the predicted path loss from the two models Hata and COST 231 Hata model, and integrated analysis of all the plots, the feasibility analysis of the two models for three different propagation environments in Kathmandu is done. From which we get, Hata model is not feasible for the application in remote area due to much high minimum square error. Also the Hata model best fits the core city area in Kathmandu with MSE slightly greater than the acceptable limits as given by [6]. So the new modified Hata model is given based on the MSE. And for Ring-road area both model is applicable but the COST 231 Hata Model best fits it due to least MSE. CONCLUSION In this project, the popular empirical path loss models for mobile communications are studied. Among them two models, Hata and COST 231 Hata model is compared with actual path loss in three different propagation environments in Kathmandu, for applicability in macro-cellular Base Stations (BS). Comparison and Analysis of the integrated plot of the path loss from two models and actual path loss in those environments, along with mathematical calculations gave us the result. And the best fit model based on MSE calculations is either modified or left as it is, for those three propagation environments in Kathmandu. Also the assumptions for the three areas are consistent with the actual model which made the analysis and comparison easy. The choice of which model to use actually depends on the terrain type and the surrounding environments and objects around it, the selection of that model in planning a mobile communication network will give the best result and better network is what will be the output. So, Service providers must use efficient planning tools to better model their propagation environments along with the best predicted path loss. Hence, this project is useful for such realistic planning for GSM 900 MHz in Kathmandu. Further enhancements in this project can yield similar results for future mobile technologies and other spectrum too. PROBLEMS / LIMITATIONS: The receiver used for this project is a mobile set which has a sensitivity of -105 dbm. Hence, during field strength measurement, I can only measure signals up to 600m from the Base station in core city area. If there was separate equipment for signal measurement, it would have yield much better result, maybe thats the reason why there is much difference between the measured and predicted value due to lesser no of sample points. Also, Effective power radiated from the antenna is assumed to be 50 dbm, (same for all BS) due to unavaibility of measuring actual power radiated from the antenna and the losses in the RF cables and connectors. Also the antenna azimuth and down tilt not taken into consideration and sometimes, the measurement of received signal is done in locations that may be outside of the main lobe of the antenna radiation, i.e. outside of the half-power beam width (HPBW). FUTURE WORK: This work can be extended to apply for other mobile technologies in other frequency spectrum such as 1800 MHz DCS, 2100 MHz WCDMA. Also high sensitive field strength measurements tools can be used for future generation Mobile technologies for better result. As this project only dealt with the selection and modification of Path loss models for applicability in Kathmandu areas, the result of this project can be used for interference estimation and frequency assignment planning for new network or extension of existing network. REFERENCES Z. Nadir, N. Elfadhil, F. Touati, Pathloss Determination Using Okumura-Hata Model And Spline Interpolation For MissingData For Oman, Proceedings of the World Congress on Engineering 2008 Vol I WCE 2008, July 2 4, 2008, London, U.K. Popescu, I.et al., Applications of neural networks to the prediction of propagationpath loss for mobile communications systems, Applied Electromagnetism, 2000. Proceedings of the Second International Symposium of Trans Black Sea Region, 2000. K.Ayyappan et. al., Propagation Model for highway in Mobile Communication System, from http://www.ubicc.org/files/pdf/Highway_249.pdf F.M. Landstorfer, Wave Propagation Model for the Planning of Mobile Communication Network, from http://amsacta.cib.unibo.it/1427/1 /GAAS_99_065.pdf J. Wu and D. Yuan, Propagation Measurements and Modeling in Jinan City, IEEE International Symposium on Personal, Indoor and Mobile Radio Communications, Boston, MA, USA, Vol. 3. M. Hata, Empirical Formula for Propagation Loss in Land Mobile Radio Services, IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, Vol, VT-29, No, 3, 1980. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free-space_path_loss P K DALELA, et al., A New Method of Realistic GSM Network planning for Rural Indian Terrains, IJCSNS International 370 Journal of Computer Science and Network Security, VOL.8 No.8, August 2008 V.S. Abhayawardhana, et al., Comparison of Empirical Propagation Path Loss Models for Fixed Wireless Access Systems, from http://www.cl.cam.ac.uk/ research/dtg/lce-pub/public/vsa23/VTC05_Empirical.pdf http://www.google.com.np/#hl=neq=+++++L%3D+FSL%2BAM-HMG-HBG+median+path+lossaq=foq=+++++L%3D+FSL%2BAM-HMG-HBG+median+path+lossfp=80b8cfa680f5dc97.

The Blue Hotel :: Blue Hotel Essays

The Blue Hotel As a recently published book on the works of Stephen Crane, it is rather disappointing to see some of the key moments left out of Stanley Wertheim's criticism in A Stephen Crane Encyclopedia about the short story "The Blue Hotel." Wertheim leaves out a key point in the characterization of the Swede and the plot of the story. This occurs at the point where Patrick Scully, in the story, persuades the Swede to stay in his hotel despite his fears and inhibitions about the Wild West by getting him to drink and not to worry. This by itself is a climatic event because the Swede believes that he is about to be killed or poisoned as Scully brings out the bottle. Another event comes later as Wertheim simply brushes over the murder of the Swede. Both of these events are based on extreme emotional feelings and actions that cause the reader to question the motive behind the Swede's actions as well as his characterization. Wertheim does a very good job at bringing out other points in the novel. The setting he states is "bleak prairie town in northern Nebraska" with the fictional appearance of a dangerous western environment. The blizzard that occurs later in the story, Wertheim continues, represents a "hostile manifestation of nature" that ironically does not kill the Swede. As Wertheim finishes his criticism with the final section of the story, he brings in several arguments about the fault of the Swedes death and the punishment of the gambler. He brings in the argument about the "affirmation of the Howellsian doctrine of complicity" and "the existential necessity for human brotherhood in a viable society.

thomas jefferson :: essays research papers

Thomas Jefferson Thomas Jefferson is remembered in history not only for the offices he held, but also for his belief in the natural rights of man as expressed in the Declaration of Independence and his faith in the people’s ability to govern themselves. He left an impact on his times equaled by few others in American history. Born on April 13, 1743, Jefferson was the third child in the family and grew up with six sisters and one brother. Though he opposed slavery, his family had owned slaves. From his father and his environment he developed an interest in botany, geology, cartography, and North American exploration, and from his childhood teacher developed a love for Greek and Latin. In 1760, at the age of 16, Jefferson entered the College of William and Mary and studied under William Small and George Wythe. Through Small, he got his first views of the expansion of science and of the system of things in which we are placed. Through Small and Wythe, Jefferson became acquainted with Governor Francis Fauquier. After finishing college in 1762, Jefferson studied law with Wythe and noticed growing tension between America and Great Britain. Jefferson was admitted to the bar in 1767. He successfully practiced law until public service occupied most of his time. At his home in Shadwell, he designed and supervised the building of his home, Monticello, on a nearby hill. He was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1769. Jefferson met Martha Wayles Skelton, a wealthy widow of 23, in 1770 and married her in 1772. They settled in Monticello and had one son and five daughters. Only two of his children, Martha and Mary, survived until maturity. Mrs. Martha Jefferson died in 1782, leaving Thomas to take care of his two remaining children. Though not very articulate, Jefferson proved to be an able writer of laws and resolutions he was very concise and straight to the point. Jefferson soon became a member in a group which opposed and took action in the disputes between Britain and the colonies. Together with other patriots, the group met in the Apollo Room of Williamsburg’s famous Raleigh Tavern in 1769 and formed a nonimportation agreement against Britain, vowing not to pay import duties imposed by the Townshend Acts. After a period of calmness, problems faced the colonists again, forcing Jefferson to organize another nonimportation agreement and calling the colonies together to

A Plan to Invest in Real Estate Despite the Recession Essay -- Real Es

The Great Recession has shuffled the deck of playing cards. Seasoned investors and first-time home buyers alike have been hit – and hit hard. The challenging and volatile real estate market has created a flood of distressed asset sales all across the nation. However, the flipside to the coin of disaster and distress is almost always opportunity. Now that I have acquired $150,000 in cash to purchase distressed real estate, my detailed strategy below outlines exactly how I will personally benefit, and perhaps more importantly, how the community I invest in will benefit. First I will outline the basics: what I would buy with the cash (distressed apartments), where I would buy (San Jose, CA), how I would buy (my investment strategy) and why I would buy (a personal profit analysis). Then, I will outline my plan to pay it forward – to translate my newfound experience to help other first-time investors safely and knowledgably purchase their own distressed assets. I will add value to the community through a three-pronged approach of live seminars, online outreach, and a mentorship program. PERSONAL BENEFIT What to Buy: Distressed Apartments To properly understand how I would invest the $150,000 for personal profit and community benefit, we must first understand what I would buy. While there are a plethora of distressed real estate assets on the market, from single family homes to multi-tenant retail centers, I believe the most feasible and simplest starting place for a first-time investor is residential apartments, one to four units. For most people, buying a home and renting it out, or buying a fourplex and renting it out is not as farfetched as buying the local distressed strip mall. One to four unit rentals are not only easy... ... of 20.34%. However, the community will be the real winner as I implement my three-pronged community contribution campaign of Live Seminars, Online Outreach, and a Mentorship Program. My plan will create a strong momentum of first time investors purchasing distressed assets and repairing the deferred maintenance. This grassroots movement will focus on repairing distressed assets and safe investment practices. It will create new demand for distressed assets, reversing the downward spiral of prices for such assets. It will also prevent future distressed asset meltdowns by teaching safe investing practices. Works Cited Nadji, Hessam. "2011 Apartment Research Market Report for San Jose Metro Area." Diss. Marcus and Millichap, 2011. Print. Nadji, Hessam. "2011 Real Estate Investment Research National Apartment Report." Diss. Marcus and Millichap, 2011. Print.

Othello -Essay

Gender Overplay The representation and relationships of women in Venetian society in terms of ender relations and equality are explored throughout the play. The character of Ago, adopts the sexist and discriminatory attitudes towards women that was common In the patriarchal society of Venice. Ago was someone who thought women were Infinitely exploitable, dispensable objects and driven by sexual desire only- â€Å"That she may make, unmake, do what she list ‘even as her appetite shall play the god. (Act 3 Scene 3). As Ago soliloquies, the repetition of â€Å"make† emphasizes the view of the relentless nature to which women approach relationships that was adopted by the patriarchal society. The view that women were characterized in such a derogatory and disparaging fashion, articulates the discriminative societal views that were upheld in Venetian society. Similarly, Sago's characterization of women Is representative of the dominant societal view that women were Inferior and nonsensical beings.Interestingly, Emilie contrasts Sago's belief concerning the sexual desire of women by expressing her belief that men use women to satisfy their own sexual desire- â€Å"They are all but stomachs, and we all but food; / they eat us hungrily, and then when they are full/ they belch us. † (Act 3 Scene 4). With the use of a metaphor to express the exploitation of women, combined with figurative language, Email Illustrates the gender tensions and views of women existing In a pre-femaleness society of women's oppression.The gender tensions that were present In the Venetian society existed on a basis of assumptions, having been predetermined by central societal beliefs. The resolution of play necessitates the death of Desman and Emilie due to their anomalous attempts to usurp the Elizabethan chain- mite I'll not shed her blood/nor scar that whiter skin of hers than snow/yet she must die, else he'll betray all men. â€Å"(Act 5 Scene 2) The use of an assertiv e tone, combined with figurative language expresses the belief that women were represented as threats to Venetian patriarchal structure.Desman had set herself outside the bounds of accepted female behavior, and her death signifies a return to patriarchal control. Othello is a warning for those who that attempt to usurp their position in Venetian society. Those people, who endeavourer to challenge the Elizabethan chain of being, are punished for their actions. Othello continues to engage audiences through its exploration of gender power plays- perennial, universal concerns that transcend time Racial Overplay Racial tensions explored in Othello are perennial themes which continue to engage audiences.Othello is considered as the ‘outsider' as he comes from outside of Venice and ‘retains some of his alien origins. ‘ In entering into marriage with Desman, Othello is stepping outside his expected role in society and challenging the Venetian hierarchal ‘chain of bei ng power structure. The racial discrimination and views on interracial marriage are expressed through use of binary opposition, using the analogy of a black ram and white ewe to highlight the bridge that exists between Othello and Desman belonging to different racial backgrounds- â€Å"Even now, now, very now, an old black ram is tipping your white ewe. (Act 1 Scene 1). Bestial imagery is also used with anthropomorphism to convey the racial prejudice expressed by Abortion and also the wider Venetian societal views on race and interracial marriage. This view characterizes Othello and intern his racial background as being associated with something that has negative connotations attached to it- â€Å"old black ram†. Throughout the plays evolution, the audience witnesses as Othello absorbs the explicit racism and black imagery, resulting in self-hatred.This is communicated through use of allusion as Othello utilizes his own â€Å"blackness† to characterize himself as sava ge- â€Å"Her name, that was fresh/ as Din's visage, is now begrimed and black/as mine on face. † (Act 3 Scene 3). Othello reflects the Venetian racial elucidation that blackness was a representation of evil and iniquity. At the conclusion of the play, it is clear to the audience that Othello is completely immersed n the racial based discriminatory values that are upheld by Venetian society.Before ending his life Othello mentions ‘Turk†, expressing a view of himself as the enemy to Venice- â€Å"Where a malignant and turbaned Turk/beat a Venetian and traduced the state† (Act 5 Scene 2). The allusion to the Turkish emphasizes the comparison that Othello is making of himself to something savage and unrelenting. This communicates the depth to which Othello has allowed himself to be pervaded with the dominant racial societal views. Resolution to the social challenge could only come wrought the death and disgrace of those who attempt to usurp the Venetian Ã¢â‚¬Ë œchain of being power structure.Othello is a warning for those who attempt to usurp the Elizabethan chain of being power structure. Those people, who attempt to contravene the divinely constructed social order, are punished for their anomalous actions. Through extracting the perennial power relations of the play, a Marxist and Feminist paradigm can be adopted. Shakespearean domestic tragedy Othello continues to engage audiences through its exploration of race and gender power plays- universal concerns that transcend time and place.