Genetically Modified Food: Pros and Cons Essay

A few years ago, I was invited to give a talk at the English Salon, a weekly seminar series sponsored by the YWCA Language School in Nagoya, Japan. My topic was genetically modified (GM) food and my stance was distinctly supportive. (Don’t start throwing the rotten tomatoes now! ) Despite my hour-and-a-half long presentation, I was unable to convince most of the audience that GM foods were safe to eat and had many environmental benefits as well. GM food seems relatively benign if it’s the result of cross-breeding two organisms of the same species, such as crossing strawberry plants with a deeper red color with those that have larger fruit. The type of genetic modification that causes the greatest ire amongst consumers and activists, however, is when genes from two totally unrelated organisms are combined. For example, â€Å"Roundup Ready† soybean crops have been genetically engineered to carry a gene from a bacteria that is resistant to Roundup, a weed killer. When Roundup is sprayed on these crops, every plant in the vicinity dies except the soybeans. Sounds frightening and unnatural, but consider the positive effects genetically modified crops would have on health, farming methods, and the environment. Current and future GM products include: †¢Food that can deliver vaccines – bananas that produce hepatitis B vaccine †¢More nutritious foods – rice with increased iron and vitamins †¢Faster growing fish, fruit and nut trees †¢Plants producing new plastics Jonathan Rauch wrote in The Atlantic Monthly, Recall that world food output will need to at least double and possibly triple over the next several decades. Even if production could be increased that much using conventional technology, which is doubtful, the required amounts of pesticide and fertilizer and other polluting chemicals would be immense. If properly developed, disseminated, and used, genetically modified crops might well be the best hope the planet has got. The Human Genome Project summarizes the controversies surrounding GM foods: †¢Potential human health impact: allergens, transfer of antibiotic resistance markers, unknown effects †¢Potential environmental impact: unintended transfer of transgenes through cross-pollination, unknown effects on other organisms (e.g. , soil microbes), and loss of flora and fauna biodiversity. †¢Domination of world food production by a few companies †¢Increasing dependence on Industralized nations by developing countries †¢Biopiracy – foreign exploitation of natural resources †¢Violation of natural organisms’ intrinsic values †¢Tampering with nature by mixing genes among species †¢Objections to consuming animal genes in plants and vice versa †¢Stress for animal †¢Labeling not mandatory in some countries (e. g., United States). †¢Mixing GM crops with non-GM confounds labeling attempts †¢New advances may be skewed to interests of rich countries There’s no doubt that the GM food supply should be closely monitored and regulated, but that doesn’t mean it should all be banned. I believe that genetic engineering of plants, animals, and humans has much to offer as long as we are aware of potential benefits and side effects. And that’s true even for more traditional methods of farming, animal husbandry, and medicine.

Food Adulteration

Effect of food adulteration on the health of people Abstract of the report: Introduction to Food Adulteration: Adulteration – is a term legally used to define any kind of food product that does not meet the standards set by the centre or the state. The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act states that any substance that may be used for adulteration can be called as an adulterant. †¢ Adulteration could mean any of the below: Substitution with a cheaper or inferior quality substance – in part or whole †¢ Articles being packaged and kept under conditions that are classified as insanitary †¢ Any food article infested with insects, or consisting of decomposed , rotten or filthy stuff †¢ Substance being obtained from an animal affected from disease †¢ Articles containing poisonous materials †¢ Articles that contain coloring substance that has not been prescribes for use or contains a prescribed coloring substance beyond the prescribed limits †¢ The above point is true for preservatives as well Quality of an article is not up to the prescribed standards As a part of this report, we intend to explore the effects that food adulteration has on the health and lives of the victims, look at some of the most common forms of food adulteration that takes place in our country as well as around the globe. We will also briefly look at the laws that are in place to protect us from food adulteration and their implications on controlling food adulteration. Another major focus point of our report will be to identify ways that enable people to identify whether a food product is adulterated or not.

Qualitative Research

Introduction/Background In this section of the study, the researcher should explain the rationale for undertaking the work reported on, including what he/she has chosen to do, the reasons for doing it and the background to the study. It should be written in an explanatory style. Thus, the researcher should state what the report is about, the relevant themes and issues, a brief outline of the method of enquiry and also the limits of the research and reasons for them. For instance, in the article titled â€Å"Making Corporate Social Responsibility Work: Do Rural and Community Banks (RCBs) in Ghana Care at All?† by Dr. Henry Kofi Mensah, Dr. Ahmed Agyapong and Dr. Eric Fosu Oteng-Abayie, the background information was perfectly done. The researchers made their intentions clear and known and by this, their concentration was on Rural and Community Banks in Ghana. Also, what other researchers have debated on concerning this topic was made clear by the researchers.Literature ReviewThis part of the research report should focus on a survey of publications (e.g. books, journals, authoritative websites, conference papers, etc.), reporting work that has already been done on the topic of the report. It should only include studies that have direct relevance to the research. A literature review should be written like an essay in a discursive style, with an introduction, main discussion grouped in themes and a conclusion. Then, the researcher should conclude with how the review has informed his/her research, thus things the researcher will be building on and also the gaps he/ she will be filling. For instance, in the article titled â€Å"Making Corporate Social Responsibility Work: Do Rural and Community Banks (RCBs) in Ghana Care at All?† by Dr. Henry Kofi Mensah, Dr. Ahmed Agyapong and Dr. Eric Fosu Oteng-Abayie, the literature review was perfectly done. The researchers of this article grouped their literature review in thematic areas, which include; CSR and Business Operations, The CSR Agenda and the Operations of RCBs and also concluded with the aim to provide justification or otherwise for the investment in CSR and contribute to the growing discourse of CSR and its strategic value for SMEs in emerging economies. Qualitative research Qualitative research refers to â€Å"investigating the features of a market through in-depth research that explores the background and context for decision making†[1].   In another words, this type of research prefers other methods rather than the statistical analysis of data to obtain certain conclusion about the market and aims to research on the behaviour of the customers. There are two types of qualitative research methods.   The first one is depth interviewing.   Depth interviewing refers to one – on – one interviewing as the main tool of finding the customer’s preferences and opinions about a product, a service or a marketing campaign, for example. The second method is group discussions, in which the focus moves from the individual consumer to the group of potential customers[2].   The customers are brought together and discuss a certain product or service, analyzing the strength and weaknesses of that product and proposing ways by which its sales can be increased. In general, qualitative research is used â€Å"when more in depth or perceptual data is required†[3].   This means that, as a marketing tool, qualitative research will be used when attempting to obtain very focused information on consumer behavior an consumer reaction to a certain product or service. The first important advantage of such a marketing tool is the fact that it is very applied and that it is most likely to provide very accurate information in the area it is used.   If you conduct an individual, one-on-one interview with a potential or active client, you will be posing questions so that you will obtain feedback as to the customer’s preference in terms of that product’s characteristics. In this way, the product that will be launched on the market will be more fit for the potential clients, it will bear many of characteristics they need or require.   If the product has already been launched, then this will most likely be corrected following the new evaluations.   Because it will reflect more of the requirements the clients want, the product’s sales are likely to grow as well. Among the disadvantages, we can mention, first of all, the fact that the market is formed of an almost incalculable number of clients and customers, while these methodologies target only a very small number of them.   We may assume that the targeted individuals are not necessarily representative for the entire population and that they will be only be referring to their own preferences rather than those of the entire potential group of consumers. Additionally, we can point towards the very large costs qualitative research implies.   Indeed, being able to perform individual interviews is definitely a task that will mean additional costs for each of the interviews.   The group interview methodology is also costly, as all the participants will need to be paid, while this type of session is likely to take up some time. Quantitative research refers to â€Å"measuring a market and quantifying that measurement with data†[4].   Obviously, compared to qualitative research, this is a much larger perspective, a perspective where the entire market needs to be analyzed.   Additionally, quantitative research will aim to discover and statistically analyze information and data on the market size, market growth rates etc. On the other hand, quantitative research can also be used to evaluate customer preference and decide on customer attitudes and awareness for certain products. The quantitative analysis is based on two essential vectors: data collection and data analysis.   In terms of data collection, this activity will be aimed at gathering data that will help the marketing – related decisions of the company.   Data can be collected in any circumstances, on the street in interviews, through the Internet, on the phone or over the mail etc. On the other hand, this data needs to be interpreted and analyzed so as to provide the necessary reaction from the decision makers.   By interpretation, we will mean that the data will be statistically analyzed, trends and current tendencies will be estimated, all this with the use of different statistical measure and calculations. Obviously, the main advantage of quantitative research is that it give such an ample perspective over the whole market rather than isolated opinions of certain individuals.   On the other hand, the problem is that it often does not incorporate personal opinions, things like customer preference and specific customer behaviour, which would be covered by the qualitative research. In general, it is often recommended that the two different types of analyses are combined so as to reflect best both the market in general and the individual preferences. This way we can ensure that the marketing decision is entirely sustained and supported by relevant data. Bibliography 1. Market research – qualitative research. On the Internet at http://www.tutor2u.net/business/marketing/research_qualitative.asp. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006. 2. Qualitative Market Research. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006 3. Market research – quantitative research. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006.       [1] Market research – qualitative research. On the Internet at http://www.tutor2u.net/business/marketing/research_qualitative.asp. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006. [2] Ibid. [3] Qualitative Market Research. On the Internet at http://www.apmforum.com/emerald/qualitative-market-research.htm. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006 [4] Market research – quantitative research. On the Internet at http://www.tutor2u.net/business/marketing/research_quantiative.asp. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006. Qualitative research Qualitative research refers to â€Å"investigating the features of a market through in-depth research that explores the background and context for decision making†[1].   In another words, this type of research prefers other methods rather than the statistical analysis of data to obtain certain conclusion about the market and aims to research on the behaviour of the customers. There are two types of qualitative research methods.   The first one is depth interviewing.   Depth interviewing refers to one – on – one interviewing as the main tool of finding the customer’s preferences and opinions about a product, a service or a marketing campaign, for example. The second method is group discussions, in which the focus moves from the individual consumer to the group of potential customers[2].   The customers are brought together and discuss a certain product or service, analyzing the strength and weaknesses of that product and proposing ways by which its sales can be increased. In general, qualitative research is used â€Å"when more in depth or perceptual data is required†[3].   This means that, as a marketing tool, qualitative research will be used when attempting to obtain very focused information on consumer behavior an consumer reaction to a certain product or service. The first important advantage of such a marketing tool is the fact that it is very applied and that it is most likely to provide very accurate information in the area it is used.   If you conduct an individual, one-on-one interview with a potential or active client, you will be posing questions so that you will obtain feedback as to the customer’s preference in terms of that product’s characteristics. In this way, the product that will be launched on the market will be more fit for the potential clients, it will bear many of characteristics they need or require.   If the product has already been launched, then this will most likely be corrected following the new evaluations.   Because it will reflect more of the requirements the clients want, the product’s sales are likely to grow as well. Among the disadvantages, we can mention, first of all, the fact that the market is formed of an almost incalculable number of clients and customers, while these methodologies target only a very small number of them.   We may assume that the targeted individuals are not necessarily representative for the entire population and that they will be only be referring to their own preferences rather than those of the entire potential group of consumers. Additionally, we can point towards the very large costs qualitative research implies.   Indeed, being able to perform individual interviews is definitely a task that will mean additional costs for each of the interviews.   The group interview methodology is also costly, as all the participants will need to be paid, while this type of session is likely to take up some time. Quantitative research refers to â€Å"measuring a market and quantifying that measurement with data†[4].   Obviously, compared to qualitative research, this is a much larger perspective, a perspective where the entire market needs to be analyzed.   Additionally, quantitative research will aim to discover and statistically analyze information and data on the market size, market growth rates etc. On the other hand, quantitative research can also be used to evaluate customer preference and decide on customer attitudes and awareness for certain products. The quantitative analysis is based on two essential vectors: data collection and data analysis.   In terms of data collection, this activity will be aimed at gathering data that will help the marketing – related decisions of the company.   Data can be collected in any circumstances, on the street in interviews, through the Internet, on the phone or over the mail etc. On the other hand, this data needs to be interpreted and analyzed so as to provide the necessary reaction from the decision makers.   By interpretation, we will mean that the data will be statistically analyzed, trends and current tendencies will be estimated, all this with the use of different statistical measure and calculations. Obviously, the main advantage of quantitative research is that it give such an ample perspective over the whole market rather than isolated opinions of certain individuals.   On the other hand, the problem is that it often does not incorporate personal opinions, things like customer preference and specific customer behaviour, which would be covered by the qualitative research. In general, it is often recommended that the two different types of analyses are combined so as to reflect best both the market in general and the individual preferences. This way we can ensure that the marketing decision is entirely sustained and supported by relevant data. Bibliography 1. Market research – qualitative research. On the Internet at http://www.tutor2u.net/business/marketing/research_qualitative.asp. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006. 2. Qualitative Market Research. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006 3. Market research – quantitative research. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006.       [1] Market research – qualitative research. On the Internet at http://www.tutor2u.net/business/marketing/research_qualitative.asp. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006. [2] Ibid. [3] Qualitative Market Research. On the Internet at http://www.apmforum.com/emerald/qualitative-market-research.htm. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006 [4] Market research – quantitative research. On the Internet at http://www.tutor2u.net/business/marketing/research_quantiative.asp. Last retrieved on November 15, 2006.

History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

History - Essay Example In the 1890 and 1915 elections in the Unite States, the republicans and the democrats joined to draft state laws prohibiting third party candidates from having third names on the ballot in presidential elections. Third party candidates are more likely to win elections easily at the local level which may cost a lot in other aspects of the elections according to Bibby and Schaffner (278). In avoiding this, the American government adopts a unique electoral system of winner-takes-all which allows the domination of two parties only. The third party candidate is said to add more weight on either of the two candidates in an attempt to improve their political agenda after elections. Although these third party candidates rarely emerge as winners, they may have an impact on the elections. For instance they mostly accused with issue of spoiler impact. This is because they it is likely for them expose issues which majority parties may ignore. If the issue is accepted by the voters, the major par ties may adopt it into their party platform. Another impact of third party candidates is that they can be used to pass a protest vote as a type of referendum on a significant issue. This may have the effect of an important issue being voted against due to disagreements between the major parties.

Art Fund Proposal Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Art Fund Proposal - Research Paper Example Painting is one among them. The paint market sector can be divided into two major categories, industrial coatings and decorative paints based on the end-use of the particular products. Besides segmentation based on the end use of the particular painting product, markets can also be divided based on the quality and price of the product. Paints are generally divided into three price and quality categories: medium, premium and economy. The size of each group differs by market area and country, depending on the local painting traditions, standard of living, styles of construction and available materials, the general construction and decorating trends as well as industrial activity and renovation. Art market is a network of worldwide fiscal activity in major world cities: London, Berlin, New York, Geneva, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Milan. Art market subsists only in cities with cultural and financial capital that attracts continuing concentration of marketplace activity. The US guides the world marketplace for modern art with 50% of sales level. Aggregate sales volume and pricing across the art market from every source (sales, dealers, galleries, private and auctions) are presently impossible to quantify, but at the same time there are obvious indicators and trends. Using international prices and auction sales as an indicator of rising market activity, it can be seen that modern art prices were up 22% in 2003. Contemporary art market is being driven by the arrival of a new demographic of younger collectors and buyers. â€Å"Modern art is currently the heart of the global art market. It is the densest and most profitable segment. 2011 was the best of the decade for the sale of modern works with particularly strong demand and an outstanding revenue total of $6.067B, representing 52.4% of total global art auction. In 2011, the revenue from Modern art was up $1.218 billion versus 2010 which was itself a record year† (Art Market Trends 2011

Rights of the Contract Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Rights of the Contract - Research Paper Example Nomar shall acquire rightful ownership that will include executive powers to run the gun business upon payment of the principal sum. Henceforth, all legal procedures and requirements shall be based on his adherence to proper business ethics as outlined in their partnership accord. The principal sum will indicate Mia’s willingness of compliance to the business transfer contract. Thus, the sum will be a commitment for her 50% share ownership in the business. Following the first settlement Nomar will achieve executive rights to purchase all the business assets up to and including inventory, fixtures, trade license, and the remaining seven-year lease of the business store. Use and Disclosure; Rights The business partners shall agree on disclosure of rights and business freedoms as required by the law. Following a successful transfer of ownership, business partners shall be required to comply with regulation that regards to the nature of the business. Considering that the couple is involved in a sensitive business and one that is of national concern, the partners shall be expected to comply with confidentiality as required by the court. Unless authorized by a legal procedure, the business partners shall be expected to withhold any sensitive information that pertains to their business. A mutual agreement will be reached in accordance to the Uniform Commercial Code or otherwise. Henceforth, the business associate shall be accountable for any form of disclosure that threatens the very existence of the business or any form of security breach related to their business. In this concern, the associates shall agree not to disclose any sensitive information that would otherwise jeopardize the requirements covered in the business entity.... The business partners shall agree on disclosure of rights and business freedoms as required by the law. Following a successful transfer of ownership, business partners shall be required to comply with regulation that regards to the nature of the business. Considering that the couple is involved in a sensitive business and one that is of national concern, the partners shall be expected to comply with confidentiality as required by the court. Unless authorized by a legal procedure, the business partners shall be expected to withhold any sensitive information that pertains to their business. A mutual agreement will be reached in accordance to the Uniform Commercial Code or otherwise. Henceforth, the business associate shall be accountable for any form of disclosure that threatens the very existence of the business or any form of security breach related to their business. In this concern, the associates shall agree not to disclose any sensitive information that would otherwise jeopardize the requirements covered in the business entity.

Phase 4 Discussion Board Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Phase 4 Discussion Board - Assignment Example However, competitive ideas in automation will require innovative ideas, expert workforce, and structural capabilities. This means that automation will merge business activities and process will no longer be isolated. Automation was necessary for our company since it helps in speeding up the process; in essence, it develops processes that are simple, mitigate inefficiencies, and overlap workloads. The greater visibility will enable managers in diagnosing problems; prevent time-consuming process, and increasing efficiency (Sveiby, 2007). Statistics shows that businesses spent 70% of their time in planning and developing rules and processes. Arguably, this amounts to a lot of time that should be used by businesses in production process; therefore, business automation will help in allocating tasks, planning, and reducing time spent in production scheduling. In other words, production automation helps n making historical comparisons, predicting future trends, and analyzing business process (John, 2010). Process failures are attributable to unexpected events; hence, automation will enable businesses in increasing reliability. John (2010) state that automation is essential for our company since it enables quantification of data, explores the areas of improvement, and minimizes poor allocation of resources. Misallocation of resources leads to waste of resources that should be used in increasing productivity. In essence, automation helps in increasing relationship with stakeholders such as suppliers, customers, distributors etc. this is an effective strategy in boosting efficiency and increasing competitive advantage (John, 2010). In sum, business processes automation helped us in restructuring labor cost, integrating office applications, and redefining workflow. Simply, businesses needs to pursue strategies that will ensure time is saved, cost is reduced, and efficiency is increased. However, the decision to

Foreign language courses in public school Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Foreign language courses in public school - Essay Example According to (Dillon 2010), this is a distressing news that many schools nationwide have stopped teaching foreign languages overlooking the fact that a greater number of linguists are present needed in America in an order to look after the global business and diplomacy. The talk about necessarily requiring the American students to take foreign language courses at the schools is weighty and fraught with positive merits because research shows that younger children are more able to develop familiarity with foreign languages and learn to speak them fluently than senior people are. Young school students are of that age when acquiring knowledge about new and difficult things does not create much hurdles for the students and they are able to go all the way through to acquire control over foreign languages, which are sure to assist them a lot in their later lives when they would have to survive in a culturally diverse society and interact with people speaking different languages. There are m any jobs which essentially demand the candidates to be bi-lingual. Jobs in the fields of teaching and business require an individual to be able to socially interact with many people from different backgrounds and who may be speaking different languages. Moreover, according to (Peckham, n.d.), â€Å"children in foreign language programs have tended to demonstrate greater cognitive development, creativity, and divergent thinking than monolingual children.† ... elds of teaching and business require an individual to be able to socially interact with many people from different backgrounds and who may be speaking different languages. Moreover, according to (Peckham, n.d.), â€Å"children in foreign language programs have tended to demonstrate greater cognitive development, creativity, and divergent thinking than monolingual children.† Early foreign language learning is also important because children are the future of a country and arming them with the tool of speaking foreign languages can help them in accepting different cultural beliefs. Even proponents believe that being bi-lingual is important and beneficial in the 21st century since globalization is a prominent feature of the present America, still they obstinately stand by the viewpoint that making the foreign language courses mandatory at school level is not a wise step and should be re-considered in many educational setups. Proponents suggest that though learning foreign langua ges has its merits, still importance of an individual’s freedom should never be forgotten and in the end, it should be the student him/herself and no other authority that should decide whether taking foreign language classes is important at school or not. Proponents also claim that essentially requiring the American students to take foreign language courses at schools is not a wise step because there is already a complex and tough academic course for the students that may virtually leave the students with no excess time for learning foreign languages. This claim may be true to some extent but can be suppressed by adjusting the curriculum in such a smart way that the students would not have to face troubles in adjusting their time between other courses and additional foreign language courses.

Management Control Systems Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Management Control Systems - Case Study Example The monetary measure becomes a common measure that is understood by all functions of the organisation. Also, profitability measure is essential to the success of all organisations. Thus, management monitors performance in terms of monetary value. Most especially, financial results provide a mechanism to suggest whether the business strategies implemented by an organisation benefited them. (Kimmel, Weygandt, & Kisco, 2000) This paper focuses on the management control systems established and implemented by a banking institution - Grameen Bank. Grameen Bank is a non-traditional bank that surpasses conventional banking practices of its contemporaries. In view of this, the paper will illustrate the different performance measurements that the organisation established as well as create a performance evaluation of the organisation. Grameen Bank is a micro-credit organisation that had initiated lending to the rural poor and was very successful that they rise above the normal banking conventions. Muhammad Yunus founded the bank in order to help the poor people in his country. He envisioned create an organisation that would alleviate the poor from poverty. He created the bank because no other banks shared his vision. In his speech as a Nobel Peace Prize Awardee, Yunus started the bank as a home-grown project that was run with the help of his students. Now, the Grameen Bank has increased in multitudes and the Grameen idea has spread around the world. Grameen-type programs are being implemented in almost every country. (Yunus, 2006) The target market of Grameen is the poorest of the poor in Bangladesh and most of their customers are responsible women of the poor families. Yunus developed a lending methodology where loans are paid in miniature weekly payments. The purpose of micro-credit lending is to detect problems early and increase borrowers' confidence. The objectives of the Grameen Bank are to extend the banking facilities to the poor people without collaterals but instead of mutual trust, accountability, participation and creativity. The organisation aims to become an enabler for the unutilized and underutilized manpower to create opportunities for self-employment. (Grameen Bank, 2009) Management control systems According to Kaplan & Norton (1996), what an organisation cannot measure, the organisation cannot manage. In order for an organisation to be successful in its business, they must know what to look at or the indicators that show the health of the organisation. It is part of the role of management to create strategies for the organisation in order sustain their existence as well as grow in their business environment. It is the nature of management to have control over the organisation. It is the function of management to define various measures to safeguard its assets; check the reliability and accuracy of accounting information; ensure compliance with management policies; and evaluate operating performance and efficiency. Without control, the people in the organisation will be functioning in chaos and without direction. Management control is one of the reasons that an organisation would look professional, systematic and trustworthy, inside and out. A management control

Demonic Possessions and exorcisms Research Paper

Demonic Possessions and exorcisms - Research Paper Example al demonic possession, where demons supposedly took control of their victims manifesting evil characteristics and abilities not associated with the persons hosting such evil spirits. In the last half of the 20th century, an epidemic of a personality disorder called dissociative identity disorder (DID) emerged, which is primarily characterized by the presence of two or more personalities or alters that compete in taking control over the same person. A comparison of their respective symptoms, causes and treatment indicate that DID and demonic possession are almost identical. Demonic possession, both individual and collective, is a significant part of the Judeo-Christian faith in Europe and the Middle East and documented cases were noted up through the 1700s with isolated cases emerging in the 1800s up to the present. 1 The Old Testament refers to demonic possession sparingly but the New Testament is replete with it, such as Jesus casting out ‘unclean spirits.’ In Luke 8:30, for example, Jesus exorcised the demons called Legion and cast them into a group of pigs. Some other biblical passages on the subject are: Luke 9:38-43, where an epileptic boy is said to be possessed by a demon; Luke 11:14 a person is made mute because of demon; Luke 13:10-13, a woman was possessed by a demon who crippled her for 18 years, and; Matthew 15:21-28, a woman pleaded with Jesus to cast a demon from out of her daughter. 2 In the Middle Ages, the Church became preoccupied with demonic possession suspecting anyone exhibiting out-of-the-ordinary behavior of being possessed by the Devil. During the Inquisition, people believed to be possessed by demons were arrested, tried and executed if found guilty. The Catholic Church issued a procedure for exorcising demons in 1614 included in a document called Rituale Romanum, which can be performed by a priest alone while the Protestant Reformation discarded the idea of demonic possession. 3 The known symptoms of demonic possession are: sharp

Tradeswomen in Early America Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Tradeswomen in Early America - Essay Example Women of all races were expected to do their share of work, and it would have been considered odd or even unthinkable for them to refuse. Interestingly enough, many women actually became shoemakers during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, but societal attitudes toward this work were unsurprising given the period. Men who made shoes for a living did precisely that - they were skilled artisans and expected to be compensated for their work. Women, however, often worked at home rather than in a shop and performed exactly the same work for little or no wages. For example, in her book Men, Women, and Work, Blewett (1990) recounts the story of Sarah Smith Emery, who lived in Essex County, Massachusetts in the late eighteenth century, and whose uncles Joe and Ben ran a shoe-making store. One time, the men received an order for "one hundred pairs of sealskin boots that had to be finished in five days" (p. 4). She recounts how, after Sarah had stitched for five days, her fianc found her "exhausted and covered with dirty sealskin oilHer account of the incident mentions no wages paid to her for the work" (p. 4). In a case such as this, a woman became a virtual slave to her family.

Aristotle and Plato Compared Essay Example for Free

Aristotle and Plato Compared Essay In the second book of The Politics, Aristotle digresses from Plato’s recommendations and provides a counter framework for what he believes is an ideal state. The best ideal state according to Aristotle is one that is not ruled by philosopher kings. This main feature of rulership is what distances Aristotle from Plato. Is it natural for there to be a group of philosophers ruling? Is it natural that these philosophers must be removed from private life? These are the questions Aristotle deals with in the second book of The Politics. In his book, Aristotle also details the role of women, slaves and foreigners. Plato would definitely be upset with his student Aristotle because of the main fact of his idea of rulership and the removal of the philosopher class. It is important to note that although Aristotle’s ideal state has greater exclusivity of groups than Plato; its benefits are far greater and practical in creating virtuous citizens. This essay will go on to discuss and critically analyze the main features of human nature, communalism, and private property of both philosophers. Before we encounter Aristotle’s practicable state we must look at Plato’s idea of communalism. Plato highlights that it is philosopher kings who should rule and be removed from private life. His notions are quite extreme because of the mere fact that his form of rulership is one that is stripped from attaining wealth and also familial roles. One can argue that this notion is doomed to fail. If this notion of communalism were to be established in a city-state, citizens would not be able to tell who there biological siblings are, which can evidently lead to incest. Another critique to Plato’s communalism is the fact that citizens would have no attachment each other and can disrupt social interaction. For example, some of the best aspects of social interaction will be eliminated if property was communal. For all citizens must share everything, or nothing, or some things but not others. It is evidently impossible for them to share nothing. For a constitution is a sort of community, and so they must, in the first instance, share their location, and citizens share that one city-state. But is it better to share some things but not others? For the citizens could share children, women, and property with one another as in Plato’s Republic. For Socrates claims there that children, women and property should be communal. (The Politics 372). Through this quote one can gather the belief that unity is impossible through this communal relationship and is only derived through hard work. This quote is very significant because it explains sharing children and women, and gives the notion that everybody in the city-state is alike, however this is not the case. A city-state is made up of a variety of citizens. Let us use this example in today’s society; will it be possible for the sharing of children, women and property in the city of Toronto? Although this is an extreme example, being that Toronto is a multicultural city; it parallels the city-state on so many levels. Plato would be upset with Aristotle’s ideal state because the majority of Plato’s demands are too far-fetched and cannot be practiced. Trying to make a city-state too much a unity or a household is not a better policy (The Politics 372). The institution of family is natural and the outright removal does not bring about virtue. As civic virtue is most practiced when given individual care and not communal care. Through Aristotle’s natural arguments we begin to see him classify roles for women Aristotle felt that the household consisted of three parts: one is mastership, another that of a father, and a third marital (The Politics 370). â€Å"For a male unless he is somehow constituted contrary to nature, is naturally more fitted to lead than a female, and someone older and completely developed is naturally more fitted to lead than someone younger and incompletely developed† (The Politics 370). This criterion proves to be dangerous in a city-state as it provides for domination and a creation of a hierarchy filled with discrimination of gender and age in this society. Slaves are another group of people that seize to exist in Aristotle’s model. Aristotle points that a slave is among things that exist through nature. Although it is not ideal for there to be slaves, it is practical and benefits the city. Plato points out that Greeks should not make other Greeks slave; this gives the impression that it is still okay to have slavery in the city. Noting that anyone who is not Greek are considered Barbarians and worthy of being slaved. Aristotle’s approach was to rationalize the use of slavery, stating that some people are slaves because they are incapable of responsibility. However we cannot dismiss the role of slaves in the city-state. Slaves play a functioning part of society and allow for the working class to have leisure. In trying to obtain an end with good and happiness, it is crucial that the middle class has leisure which allows for a space to â€Å"think† and discuss things with others, using practical wisdom in concert with others. Aristotle also justifies slavery as the natural use of their bodies. Questions of morality begin to arise; Are these justifications legitimate? At an individual level it is immoral, however in terms of a well functioning city-state slavery benefits a larger number of people (political process). The benefits are greater because it complements the organic hierarchy; where there are multiple parts that make the city-state function. Aristotle points out that private property is not only necessary but beneficial in providing for a functioning city-state. This goes against Plato’s appeal for rulership to have a communist lifestyle stripped from private property. Plato seems to be demanding too much and does not take into account that men naturally try to gain access to private property. The mere removal of private property does not seem practical, and Aristotle states that you can have some form of property that is communal. For example, the land might be grown separately, but the crops grown on it are communally stored or consumed; or the land might be owned and farmed communally, while the crops grown on it are divided up among individuals for private use (The Politics 374). Here is why Plato is upset with Aristotle’s features; he uses Plato’s Utopian idea of private property and dissects it to one which can be applied to a practical state. The major theme of what is â€Å"natural† emerges in both philosophers. It is hard to determine what is in our nature and how it effects our political position. Aristotle cleverly uses nature as a way to justify the notions of communalism, slavery, exclusion of women and private property. One can attribute Plato’s anger of Aristotle’s practicable state to his radical change in the aforementioned categories. Although Aristotle’s exclusion of women and slaves are far greater than Plato’s; the benefits applying it to his system of a practicable city-state cannot go unnoticed. Works Cited Classics of moral and political theory. Indianapolis, IN: Hackett Pub. Co. , 2005. Print.

Mother Courage Epic Theatre

Mother Courage Epic Theatre Mother Courage is an example of Brechts concepts of Epic Theatre and Verfremdungseffekt or estrangement effect. Verfremdungseffekt is achieved through the use of placards which reveal the events of each scene, juxtaposition, actors changing characters and costume on stage, the use of narration, simple props and scenery. For instance, a single tree would be used to convey a whole forest, and the stage is usually flooded with bright white light whether its a winters night or a summers day. Several songs, interspersed throughout the play, are used to underscore the themes of the play, while making the audience think about what the playwright is saying. Another epic feature that we find in Brechts play is the presence of the songs. Mother Courage tries to teach her children the facts of life through songs, this representing a way of bonding with them, apart from the cart. This latter keeps the family together, and probably that is why in the end we see a lonely Mother Courage pulling the cart: it reminds her of her three children as well as still being a means to make a living. We do not despise Mother Courage as, in some ways, she is admirable however, the audience is exposed to intense irony: in her desire to preserve her family, she has participated in destroying it. Brecht is very famous for his modern conception of epic theatre and is tremendously important for modern theatre as he helps the audience understand that the unchangeable can change. This is Brechts term for that which expresses basic human attitudes not merely gesture but all signs of social relations: department, intonation, facial expression. The Stanislavskian actor is to work at identifying with the character he or she portrays. The Brechtian actor is to work at expressing social attitudes in clear and stylized ways. So, when Shen-Te becomes Shui-Ta, she moves in a different manner. Brecht wished to embody the Gestus in the dialogue as if to compel the right stance, movement and intonation. By subtle use of rhythm pause, parallelism and counterpointing, Brecht creates a gestic language. Epic theatre is gestrual. [] The gesture is its raw material and its task is the rational utilization of this material. (Walter Benjamin, Understanding Brecht, 1966, pg. 3) The songs are yet more clearly gestic. As street singers make clear their attitudes with overt, grand but simple gestures, so, in delivering songs, the Brechtian actor aims to produce clarity in expressing a basic attitude, such as despair, defiance or submission. Instead of the seamless continuity of the naturalistic theatre, the illusion of natural disorder, Brecht wishes to break up the story into distinct episodes, each of which presents, in a clear and ordered manner, a central basic action. All that appears in the scene is designed to show the significance of the basic Gestus. We see how this works in Mother Courage. Each scene is prefaced by a caption telling the audience what is to be the important event, in such a way as to suggest the proper attitude for the audience to adopt to it for instance (Scene 3): She manages to save her daughter, likewise her covered cart, but her honest son is killed. The words in red express the playwrights view of how we should interpret the scene; Courages saving her business at the expense of her son is meant to prove how contemptible our actions are made by war. Anger, outrage, panic, revenge, violence => vital elements of his work, stand condemned Brecht is probably trying to master these emotions in himself, for his work exposes his desire for absolute submission, a state of being in which he can conquer his unbridled feelings, and, instead of engaging himself with the external world, merge with it. (Berstein, The Theatre of Revolt, p. 239) Throughout the twentieth century, Brechtian influence was fully present in the works of various playwrights such as John Arden, Thornton Wilder, Robert Bolt, Peter Weiss, Arthur Adamov, Roger Planchon, and even the famous director Giorgio Strehler. Compatibility between the methods promoted by Bertolt Brecht and the playwrights desire to initiate open debates on history and contemporaneity contributed to creating a strongly opinionated political theatrical genre, formed by the coalition of fringe theatre groups (who would perform on the outskirts) which the young playwrights such as David Hare, David Edgar, Howard Brenton joined. As the main proponent of political drama, Howard Brenton believed in theatres mission to shape consciences and transform society. Despite his desire to distance epic theatre, which he considered rather artificial and simplistic to suit his artistic criteria, the episodic structure and the principle of minimal scenic parts remain Brechtian in origin. In addition, just as Brecht, the playwright starts a crusade against humanist tradition of social drama, seeking for a theatrical form that would incite the lazy audience with disapproval, persuasion and argument. The English playwright is distinguished by his virulent analysis of socio-political structures and putting forward a personal dramatic style, being a master of the temporal dislocations technique and of stage embodied visual images. For him, the theatre had to be the expression of the perfect collaboration between the show and the straight-forward message of the. His first creations Christie in Love (1969), Revenge (1969) and Fruit (1970) successfully materialize this artistic goal. In Christie in Love, Howard Brenton has directed his entire attention to the effects of social injustice, which inevitably metamorphose into violence and crime (this, in fact, being a prominent feature of English political theatre of the period, where many playwrights would tell the story of society dehumanization through violence and indifference). Brenton was said to have aimed at giving the audience a feeling of moral vertigo with his short piece Christie in Love. Looking at it from this perspective, the play succeeds in fulfilling Brentons wish because it did indeed outrage the collective morality. The grounds on which Christie, the serial killer, commits the crimes can be analysed from different perspectives, with little chance of running out of options. He may be the incarnation of evil, an outburst of the brutality inherent in human nature or a psychoanalytic ritual of decompression of repressed love, a deviated revenge of the man who is vulnerable to women. The numerous possibilities of understanding this stage event proves that Brenton is closer to the Brechtian view about the open theatre, the one that does not have to give answers, but to make the audience reflect on either explanation and option they consider suitable and convincing, that he had previously stated. However, it is quite obvious that if the meanings the reader and the audience can infer from this play would stop to the psychological level of killer instinct, the brentonian theme would be much too simplified. But The real purpose of the play concerns society as a whole. What the author wants to suggest is t hat the protagonists atypical behaviour, presented in an almost naturalistic way, is actually societys behaviour, however much the latter one is trying to hide it under the guise of respectability. The equality sign the author puts between a miserable bastard and the world justifies the inversion o the characters portrayals, bringing us to one of the features of the epic form of the theatre, that of presenting an image of the world, instead of ones experience. Christie, the famous mass murderer, appears as a normal human being while the police, the defenders of the people, become abnormal, achieving the bold features of some surreal characters. Roland Barthes has pointed out that the verisimilitude of [epic] acting has its meaning in the objective meaning of the play, and not, as in naturalist dramaturgy, in the truth inherent in the actor. (Styan, Modern Drama in Theory and Practice 3, 1981, p. 142) Brenton keeps the character of Christie in the objectivity sphere, thus provoking the spectators to live with the suspense throughout the play.

Strategic Change Management At Marks And Spencer Business Essay

Strategic Change Management At Marks And Spencer Business Essay Marks and Spencer is one of the leading foods and non food items retailer almost all over the world and its mission is to provide excellent quality to their customers. It has long heritage of excellent service and product and successful stories of business. These days they have faced some great extend of competition from their competitors such as competitive price strategy and use of excellent market tools and new fashion at low cost prices. In this report we will discuss the need of change that Marks and Spencer would required in organization. Background of Change: These days companies are focus to increase their product line and market their process by using of effective marketing tools for example 4ps for example Tesco is the one of the biggest retailer in the UK and currently having more than 2500 line of products in their store and they are increasing their products day by day because they want to retain their old customers as well as they want to attract new customers, for this purpose they have strong RD Team that helps them to know that what would be the competitive product and they not only took initiative but also start their specific group researched to improve their existing product. Mean while the whole process is monitored by upper management level and they use right place, right process and right product for the right people and increase their sales level with the slogan of Every little help. This is very effective strategy to show the whole process by saying that that they are only helping their customers. The need of above example is the main key process of their RD team is that they review their whole process again and again to make their decision and products better and implement changes on urgency basis. Before discussing the need of change in Marks and Spencer I will discuss and model for changes which are these: Kotters Model for Change Kotters Model for Change: Change is a process that need to be placed compulsory in each and every organization these days after certain period, these changed could be in management level or labour level, but the important thing that this change should be implemented successfully to gain the same level or more then the old level of satisfaction or profit. In Harvard Business School Korter introduced the eight step of model of change that help organization to implement the desired change successfully and carefully and also on urgent basis. (Mind Tools, 2011) He mentioned that changes that organization need in the presence of their competitors are most quick so thats why employees should accept the change to help the org. to lead in market with quick decision. Step no. 1: Need of Urgency: As we have discussed above that company needs a quick change to lead in the market with competitive skills and products and with competitive decisions. Now we will see its importance with an example of Marks and Spencer, suppose its competitor ASDA introduces a discount of 10% bread and butter together, now the very next morning it is the challenging situation for Marks and Spencer to retain their customers before opening hour they have to call the meeting on urgent basis and plan the change in their strategy because of the competitors actions, they introduce loyalty scheme that who buys bread and butter will get double club card point that will help to retain the customers and their profit will remain same, but afterwards they need to make it sure that this one decision is implement in all their branches in UK to protect the confidence of the customers. This is call urgency need of change. To implement these skills and situation MS would need to: Analyse their employees potential of learning and their knowledge skills that how active they are towards any change Allow the room and time to employees to find out the need of business by doing SWOT analysis and made them aware that how quick they should be in term of change When management take the decision from employees than employees would know and will assess the upcoming change and will be ready to adopt it. Step no 2: Strong Coalition: Implementation of change without strong leadership means having a profit without investments in retail industry. We can measure the importance of change without leader in our daily lives. According to Korter team work of organization towards change leads to success. For that purpose Marks and Spencer must follow these points: Take a feed back from employees about the progress of the leader Do external audit to know the influence of leader on their employees Hire new strong leader to implement the changes on urgent basis Step 3: Change in Goals and Mission: Every organization do practice and do internal audit to make sure that their employees are working with the knowledge of their path that leads to common mission and objectives. According to Korter in case of change in organization goals and mission they must remember these new approaches to their employees. (Value Based, 2010) They can do in the following format: Use of few words and post it inside the organization on small distances Do the seminars with the general public and with employees to show your progress and the care companys for customers and their employees Use of these words in common speeches in mid term reports, etc. Step no. 4: Regular discussion and communication of vision and mission: As we have discussed before that the need of the management is to do practice of remembering of common vision and mission among their employees to let them know their duties and any new changes. Step no. 5: Remove Obstacles: As we have discussed the korters need of urgency at start they also focused that if they found any obstacle in reviewing process it must be removed urgently. Step no 6: Short Term Wins: Management while remembering the vision among employees should appreciate every little effort of employees to made them perfect and efficient in their own tasks. This would help the other employees to be motivated. (The leader ship hub, 2011) Step no 7: Build the Change Continuously: This step defines that company need to be productive and should not stop after certain level of change but regularly should analyse the market situation. Step no 8: Relation with companys culture: Company such as Marks and Spencer should always relate the change ideas and strategized with the company environment and with its current cultures. Change in Marks and Spencer: In recent research it is found that MS having low level of sales due to their extra expenses on non related items like according to MS they spent 2m pounds in partnership with Oxfam to collect the old unused cloths and for stopping land filling. This strategy also market on their websites and on different paid place these activities got lot of amount and did give back nothing in term of financial to stake holders. Before implementing these kinds of strategies it is necessary to measure the benefit of key stake holders. (Marks and Spencer, 2010) Initially they attract 1200 of people on their web site in one moth by saying that they will award a sum of amount who would give the most productive idea to protect the environment but this activity to invite them didnt give them as such because they were more focused towards other activities than introducing new styles and products. Need of Change in Specific Areas: As we have discussed the reason that why they need change that is first of all the over spent on the advertising and second thing is that the focus of the management towards companies goal and mission and third is increasing the product line. These factors are not only focused on companys strategies but if we discuss the same factors with the companys objective we must ensure the quality of whole process to let every employees know the importance and values of companys mission. With the relation of all above discussion now I will discuss the exact main root of change that what are the places needed change? Factors of need of change: Below are the main root that causes the disturbance and these factors need to become changed in Marks and Spencer: Unclear goals of MS among the employees Extra spending and attention of extra curricular activities Low number of product line Increase new style fashion Regular reviewing and monitoring process (Internal Audit) These are the few points that must be implementing in Marks and Spencer to accomplish its old mission statement. Change in Management Activities: As we have discussed that the main problem in marks and Spencer is that their vision towards their business activities is not clear they are focus to treat other activities as their own business activities such as they joined their hand with Oxfam a charity organization and have started campaign to collect the unusable cloths to stop land filling and reselling them with the help of Oxfam. Actually they have distracted from their actual work its not due to some employees activity but this action is being decided and taken by upper level of management. Now the change is needed in that area to recover the absence and demage to business brand value to complete their uncompleted short term goals to achieve long term goals on decided time until 2020. Application of Kotters Model: Here kotters first step of model of change applies that they needs to create the situation of quick change by considering the current situation of their business as compare to the other competitors they must be able to act as quick as they want to gain the profit from the market businesses. For this they need a strong leadership that would motivate and attract the employees towards the need of urgency because some times employees didnt focus that what they are doing and they didnt adopt the change so it is the responsibility of leader to insist them that change is the compulsory thing that needs to be implement. (mind tools, 2010) Change in Product Line: The change is needed in product line where there are very few fashion products they are presenting as compare to their competitors. BY doing SWOT analysis they would come to know the need of new and innovative product that will help them to retain the old customers and by introducing new styles in non food industry they will attract other new customers as well. (Marks and Spencer) Change in Spending on Extra curricular Activities: They need to change their perception towards the mind capturing of customers until now they understand that the best way to attract the customers is socialise them on their web site and ask them to give new ideas to win the prizes but these ideas were not so popular and still the reason of spending extra money and time on it. Application of Short term Wins: After ensuring the strong leader management need to do a quick review of their planning and find out any barrier that stops their progress towards their goals. After ensuring all tools and techniques than they need to make sure that they are appreciating their employees to get out of them some thing extra to promote their vision and to get the suggestions and new ideas from them. Change in Fashion Products: As we have discussed that they are currently in need to attract the customers by introducing new styles and fashion in garments industry to attract more customers from all around the UK so in that case they would able to become the market leader in short term in the UKs market. Relation with Marks and Spencers Culture: After ensuring that they have removed the barriers and have created short term wins now they need to change the inner environment of MS time by time to get the modern techniques and styles in to their organization. That continuous change would remind the employees to give their on suggestions on their short term wins and with that opinions business would be able to act more quickly towards the change. Key Stake holder at Marks and Spencer: Now we will discuss the importance of stake holders in any organizations and their need in the companies change strategies and their importance in over all business planning. Stake holder means a group of person and companies having direct or in direct relation with the company strategies and they are affected with company decision internally or externally. Suppliers as a key stake holder at MS: Supplier at Marks and Spencer are both food and non food products so while making strategic planning it is crucial to take care of their interest in that policies. Suppliers interest could be increase in number of their order so they would get paid more and taking new orders would increase their productivity and profit. With the consent in change in business strategies of suppliers they would able to provide new products and new ideas on time to the customers on the shop and also on online stores and they would get on time door to door delivery. They also a great impact on environmental by using green factories and transportation while delivering the food and fashion products to the customers at their doors. Board of Directors at Marks and Spencer: Board of Directors are those person who have superior power inside the organization and are holding large number of shares and any nay policies effect their interest more badly or positively. So it is vey important to design the change policy in the way in which BOD can easily identify their short term and long term profit of the organization. Customers of Marks and Spencer: Their are two types of customers who shop from Marks and Spencer that is in shop customers and other type is Online customers in recent annual report according to MS they showed the sales figure in which the total 15% of sale from UK was online based that was the huge amount sold from online resources. Now while doing change in organization it is very important to consider the interest of both type of customers to get the highest level of satisfied customers with increasing number of sales. Government: In some projects govt. is included in the business planning as a stake holder such a charity program that runs nation wide have a great influence of govt. department in it so doing change in policies would effect them badly. So management needs to care their interest as well to protect their long term benefit. Implementation Process of Model of Change in Marks and Spencer: Bow we will discuss the need of change and how they implement it in the organization with consent of all other key stake holders. To understand this process easily I have divided these steps in main five steps such as financial and function level and their sub heads with Kotters models, etc. The implementation is described in table below: Model of Change in Marks and Spencer Levels Definition Starting/Function level Need To made quick decision on Urgent basis Strong leadership that leads to strong team work Process Level Clear vision on all companys objective On regular basis communication with companys employees Structure Level Improve structure level by removing any obstacle Increase the confidence by awarding them on short term achievement Marketing Level Regular working towards change with the help of marketing tools Innovation/Maturity Level Daily revision of old achievements and new targets Progress with practice under supervision Discussion of above Table of application and implementation: In Marks and Spencer company have lot of branches inside the UK to make sure that they all act on policies of change at functional level and process level it is necessary to get their strong leadership on them to bring the new and desired change it is due to the research of Kotters model of change according to him the need of change only could be generated if the team would have strong coalition and strong leadership. Thats why doing SWOT analysis at this level is also important to get rid of barriers at urgency level, other wise whole process would lead to the company towards unsuccessful change and the interest of stake holders would be damaged. Yours Truly, Adnan Jamil

Comparing Defoes Moll Flanders and Aphra Behns Oroonoko :: Comparison Compare Contrast Essays

Credibility and Realism in Daniel Defoe's Moll Flanders and Aphra Behn's Oroonoko  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚   In the Dictionary of Literary Terms, Harry Shaw states, "In effective narrative literature, fictional persons, through characterization, become so credible that they exist for the reader as real people." (1) Looking at Daniel Defoe's Moll Flanders (2) and Aphra Behn's Oroonoko (3) the reader will find it difficult to make this definition conform to Moll and Behn's narrator. This doesn't mean that Defoe's and Behn's work is 'ineffective', but there is indeed a difficulty: it is the claim of truth. Defoe in his preface states, "The Author is here suppos'd to be writing her own History." (Moll Flanders, p. 1) and Behn claims, "I was myself an eye-witness to a great part, of what you will find here set down, and what I could not be witness of, I received from the mouth of the chief actor in this history, the hero himself, (...)" (Oroonoko, 75) Although both authors claim their stories are true, and thereby that their characters are realistic, there seems to be a gap between the authors' claims and the "reality" of the characterization. This question is closely connected to the fact that both novels belong to the earliest English novels. There was no fixed tradition that the authors worked in; instead the novel was in the process of being established. The question arises whether the two works lack a certain roundness in their narrators. The main characteristic of the new literary form of the novel according to Ian Watt is "truth to individual experience" (4) and its new shape is created by a focus on the individual character. He is presented in a specific definition of time and space. The second section of this paper will show how far this is realized in both of the novels. In the third section I want to analyze the characters' individualism in connection with the claim to truth and their complexity in description. 2 Realism Watt argues that the characters in a novel owe their individuality to the realistic presentation. "Realism" is expressed by a rejection of traditional plots, by particularity, emphasis on the personality of the character, a consciousness of duration of time and space and its expression in style. 2.1 Rejection of traditional plots Watt states that, "Previous literary forms had reflected the general tendency of their cultures to make conformity to traditional practice the major test of truth: .

Divine Comedy - Dante and Virgils Relationship in Canto XIV of Dante’s

Dante and Virgil's Relationship in Canto XIV of Dante’s Inferno In Canto XIV of Dante’s Inferno, Virgil describes the statue of the Old Man of Crete. Dante uses the Old Man of Crete as a metaphor for Virgil’s legacy in order to elucidate the nature of Dante’s and Virgil’s relationship. In the beginning of the metaphor, Dante carefully and methodically illustrates the grandeur of the Greek empire and Roman civilization. "[Mount Ida] was once chosen," Virgil explains, "as a trusted cradle/ by Rhea for her son" (XIV.100-101). According to Roman mythology, Rhea gave birth to Zeus, who ultimately became the father of all Greek gods and mortal heroes and served as the cornerstone of Greek civilization. Crete, thus, is the "cradle" or birthplace of Greek civilization. In the Aeneid, Crete is also the birthplace of the Roman civilization, a concept that is important because it already begins to point to the greatness of Virgil and his homeland. The position of the statue of the Old Man provides a straightforward glimpse of the status of Rome and the legacy of Virgil. Standing straight and "erect" (XIV.104), the Old Man "looks at Rome" with his back "turned toward Damietta" (XIV.104-105). The statue’s back faces Damietta, an ancient city in Egypt. What’s more important, though, is that the Old Man is facing Rome. This precise detail makes it clear that Dante the poet wants his contemporary readers to know that Rome is the direction towards which society is converging. The image of the statue looking at Rome "as if it were his mirror" (XIV.105) drives this point further. Within Rome, the Old Man sees a reflection of all of his characteristics; Rome is a natural extension of all the great aspects of the Greek culture, including... ...to the Romans. Virgil is the conduit through which the tradition of Homeric poets and Greek literature flows. On the other hand, Dante also seems to be describing the deterioration of Virgil’s legacy: the Old Man is "of choicest iron/ except for his right foot, made of baked clay; and he rests more on this than on the left" (XIV.109-111). Furthermore, "down that fissure there are tears that drip" (XIV.113). The tears are metaphors for the flowing away of Virgil’s legacy. The tears form the rivers of hell, which suggests that Dante is using Virgil’s description of hell as a basis for his own vision. By doing so, he builds his reputation but takes away from Virgil’s fame. Dante must stand on his own feet, which is the reason why the Old Man is leaning on his crumbling, "baked clay" foot. Dante’s challenge, then, is upholding Virgil’s legacy while building up his own.

Ethical Systems Essay

Ethical systems form the basis of moral beliefs; they are the moral philosophies that order moral principles systematically. (Thomson and WardSworth, 2005) Ethical systems can be broadly classified into deontological and teleological ethical systems. A deontological system concerns itself with the nature of an act that is under judgment, if an act is good but results in bad consequences than if it still considered a good act. Teleological systems judge consequences of an act, if an act is bad but results in beneficial consequences then it is considered moral. Ethical formulism judges the intent of the author thus, it is a deontological system. If a person performs an action from goodwill and it results in bad consequences, it is a moral action. This system also uses predetermined principles to judge goodness: that people should not be used as a means to an end, that behavior is moral when it is freely chosen and autonomous (someone worked to do a good thing is not really moral. ) and that actions should be based on behavior being universal. Utilitarianism is a teleological system whose goal is judged by consequences of an action. In this case when an action contributes much to the good of majority it is moral, regardless of the individual or minority who may have suffered because of the action. Following this system, Winston Churchill by allowing Coventry to be bombed in World War II so the Germans would not know the Allies had cracked their military code did a moral thing even though hundreds of English people were killed, when they might have been saved had they been warned. A smaller group was sacrificed for the sake of the greater good in this case, ending the war earlier and saving thousands more. Religion is a frequently used ethic system based on a willful a rational God. For believers there is no reason to question the authority of God’s will. The controversial issue is the interpretation of God’s will. According to Barry when is a dilemma; God’s will can be found in 3 ways; if one feels uncomfortable about a certain action, it is probably wrong. Religious authorities can provide guidance on right and wrong and thirdly the scripture provides answers to moral dilemmas. (Thomson and Wadsworth, 2005) The natural law ethical system proposes that ‘what is good is natural and what is natural is good’. These are innate instincts for example self-preservation is inborn, natural and basic and all actions related to it such as self-defense, prohibition of murder are moral acts. The basic problem with this system is where it is difficult to identify what is consistent and congruent with human nature. Focus on basic inclinations make this a teleological system because an action like killing may be wrong but if it is done in self-defense then it is considered a moral act since it is line with the self-preservation instinct. The ethics of virtue is a system that focuses on defining a good person as opposed to a ‘good action’. Here reason cannot be used to find out what is good. This system is teleological as it conserved with achieving a good end and more specifically happiness. One does good because of one’s character, if one has a bad character they will usually choose the immoral path. For example, a person who is broke and sees a stranger drop money without realizing calls the strangers back and gives him his money, he has performed a moral act because he has a habit of integrity. Someone else would steal because it is in his or her character to do so. The ethics of care system emphasizes human relationships and needs. It has been referred to as a feminine morality as it is founded on the natural human response to care for unborn child, ill and hurt. Some Eastern religious like, reject a rule-based form of ethics preferring instead to lead an individual in caring for needs. Braswell et al, 2002). The ethic behind rehabilitation is another illustration of ethics of care system. (Thomson and Wardsworth, 2005) This system is in line with teleological system of ethics because it does not simply classify action as wrong or right, rather it is concerned with the needs of others and effects of the actions on them, which learns more towards judging consequences corporations rather than the actions themselves. Egoism proposes that what is moral is what is good for one’s survival and personal happiness. This premise in its extreme directs that people should do whatever is beneficial to them. This disregards other people, using them as means to ensure happiness and in effect it means they have no meaning or rights (Thomson and Wadsworth, 2005) Egoism, sees an individual who performs a completely selfish act as immoral even impossible as it is not in line with true nature of human beings who like all other species have instincts for survival, self preservation and self in trust which is merely part of this natural instinct. This position is neither logical nor flexible single it would be in support of exploitation of the weak by the strong, which by all other systems is wrong. The system that closely matches my own beliefs is the religious ethical system. This is because the basis for ethics provided is rational since it can be identified wit a perfect God-figure. In addition, the similarity of the principles of these ethics in most of the religious are an indicator that they are acceptable to a wide majority hence they cover the needs of most of mankind adequately. In addition, scripture provides answers to ethical problems in all circumstances, something that most other ethical systems do not. The issue of say the birth contradicting only comes up when there is failure to understand the context of scripture. Belief in a God means that we do not have the responsibility of determining what is right, or wrong, since an unquestionable authority has determined them already.

Moving to a new school

Moving to a new school, I admit, is quite frightening. Especially if you are moving in the middle of school year where everybody had already found their own group of friends. But this can change. Maybe moving toa new school can be so much better than staying in your old school, or it can the best and unforgetable experience for you at school. In order to achieve that, here are some tips that can help you. First, ask the teachers in charge of the informations you might need or know in the school. You may contact them via phone or directly.The informations you got from the teachers in charge could be used by you as a guidence to help you adapting in the new school. The teachers whose in charge, whether its a He or she could tell you how to dress for the first day and the things you need. Since you're a new student and have no idea of the rules, They will probably tell you about things that are prohibited by the school to be worn on the first day, no skinny Jeans, no mohawk hairstyles, no braceletes, no crop tops, and manyore. Second, prepare everything beforehand.It ill decrease the possibility of forgetting important things. Third, be open-minded, don't be shy and try to talk to everyone whenever you see the opportunity. If you act like you're scared, people will be reluctant in approaching you. Just act normal and you'll be fine. The last one, make new friends. They will be the ones who help you going through your first year. By following their advice you will be more comfortable moving to a new school. From what I've learnt, the relationships inventory can be classified into two groups.The first one is being people that are able to socialize properly and the other one being people that felt left out and cant blend in their society. After reading and analizing the inventory, i realized that I'm in the middle of those two groups. Sometimes i would rather stay at home spending time by myself than going out with friends or family. I am accepted by my friends, fami ly, and the teachers. They seem to like me but most of the time i am not confident. But other times i can be friendly to everyone and talk to them.Moreover i can share opinions with my friends. I wanted to be in the first group. I want to be able to socialize with everyone and be open- minded. In order to do this, i must develop more self-confident and learn not to be afraid to be myself in front of people. By doing this, I'm sure i can improve. We always wonder and wish to be a famous actor/actress/artist one day. But living as a popular person who surrounded by hundreds of cameras' light everyday might be so annoying sometimes. But have we ever wondered why those paparazzi took the pictures?Is it because of the famousity we have, the achievements in our work, or is it because we did something wrong? Thats Just what happened currently with AQJ, or mostly known as â€Å"dul†, the smallest son of Ahmad Dhani, one of most known musician in Indonesia. Dul has Just had a car acci dent which killed more than 6 people. Dul is still 13 years old, so his father forbid him to drive alone. But it seemed from the source in television, Dul was not listening to his father, so he went to bogor with his at night.Dul was driving â€Å"lencer† car and was believed reached 150km/h speed inimum. Because he drove with a very high speed, he couldn't control the car's balance which made his car crashed the highway seperator and moved to the other road. Since there are victims of this car accident, the victims' family asked the accountability from ahmad dhani's family. Responding to the the victims' family, Ahmad Dhani made a promise to pay for all the education fee until the victim's kid graduate from university. If Dul listened to his father to not driving alone, the car accident wouldn't happen.

Legal Research

Samaritan Smith slipped and fell on shampoo that had spilled In the health and beauty department of the grocery store in question. Ms. Smith had suffered a broken hip from the incident and is going to be spending the next few months in physical therapy. Ms. Smith has no health insurance and is a single mother of a 2 year old boy. After our complaints were filed In the courts; the grocery store alleges that Ms. Smith had a duty herself to avoid the spillage, but was too distracted by her young son to notice. The store feels that Ms. Smith should be held just as responsible as hey are in the case.The question being presented today, Is If both parties Involved are equally responsible? Ms. Smith does in fact possibly hold some sort of comparative fault in this case. The grocery store did complete their scheduled aisle check Just thirty minutes before Ms. Smith slipped. INDO. Code Ann. 534-51-2-5 (WEST 1998) states that â€Å"In an action based on fault, any contributory fault chargeable to the claimant diminishes proportionately the amount awarded as compensatory damages for an injury attributable to the claimants contributory fault, but does not bar recovery†.There are several factors in that can place Ms. Smith with comparative fault. The biggest fact being that she was not paying attention, because she was dealing with her 2 year old son. It does not seem that the store is not at all responsible for the injuries she sustained. Yes, the aisle check was done at the scheduled time, but it was checked by an older gentleman that wore prescription glasses. As in Wall-Mart v. Wright, 774 EN ad 891 (2002) where Wright was found at comparative fault and awarded 30% less In damages, this too could be the case with Ms. Grants Ms.Smith states negligence on the grocery stores behalf, but she too had a duty to pay attention to her surroundings. The grocery store in question has documented proof of an aisle check being done at 1 p. M. The shampoo could have spilled anyt ime between 1:00 and 1:30 p. M. In conclusion Ms. Smith could very well hold some comparative fault if the grocery store can prove that she was distracted enough by her child, that she was unable to notice the spillage. [Where are the headings in your memo? I have no idea where your memo components are. ] Wall-Mart stores Inc. V. Got, 774 EN ad 891 (2002) Wright originally sued Wall-Mart for Injuries she sustained when she slipped and fell on a puddle of water in the â€Å"Outdoor Lawn and Garden Corral†. Wright insisted Wall-Mart was negligent in the maintenance and inspections of the premises. Wright was found at comparative fault for not doing her duty as an Individual and shopper and paying attention In an area of the store where it was common for water to be on the ground. Description Weighting Possible Points Points Earned Content Student located a statute from the appropriate Jurisdiction.The statute that the dent located is on the appropriate issue and applied to the fact situation. Student provided proper citation of statutes. Student located a case from the appropriate Jurisdiction that interprets the statute. 32 Sentence Mastery Sentences are consistently grammatical. Major sentence-level errors, including fragments, run-eons, and comma splices, are avoided. Sentences are graceful, I. E. , they can be read aloud without awkwardness, awkward pauses, or running out of breath. Language is rich, precise, and vivid. 6 Grammar and Mechanics Spelling is proficient. Spellchecker has been used to avoid egregious errors.Grammar and mechanics are sound, including mastery of the following key elements: subject-verb agreement; verb form; appropriate punctuation and capitalization; apostrophe use; appropriate word use. There are no extra words, and there are not missing words. Organization and Format Organization and structure are clear and easy to follow. Writing shows clear purpose and orderly transitions from beginning to end. Sentences consistently est ablish this organization and flow rather than interrupt it. Format meets PAPA guidelines and Bluebook rules as appropriate, including use of title pages.There is no playful experimentation with fancy fonts. It is written for the appropriate audience. Citation Style Writing shows both internal citations in the body of the text as well as a proper list of references at the end of the paper, following PAPA or Bluebook format. Citations appear consistently where needed, whether following quoted or paraphrased material in the text. Note: In papers requiring secondary sources, failure to provide any citation does not result in a deduction of 10% from the paper, but will result in a failed paper and a plagiarism investigation.Total: 100% 60] Possible Points [50] Points Earned Additional Instructor Comments: FRIAR for Samaritan Smith scenario Facts [Your own paraphrase of the facts of Smith's problem in one or two paragraphs. This goes to the Analysis section, so do not skimp. ] Issue [Your own statement of Smith's problem in a single sentence in yes or no format. For example, â€Å"Can Samaritan Smith recover for the damages she endured as the result of a slip and fall at a local grocery store where shampoo had leaked upon the floor? â€Å"] Rule The citations and holdings from the two cases you located (one in Unit Three and one

Prince Henry the Navigator

Prince Henry the Navigator Prince Henry the Navigator Prince Henry the Navigator was born 1394 and died 1460. Even know he died doesn't mean I can’t refresh your memory about him. Prince Henry was a Portuguese royal prince, solider, and patron of explores. Henry sent many sailing expeditions. Prince Henry father is of King John I of Portugal and his English wife, Philippa of Lancaster. When he was 21, Prince Henry attacked the Moslem port of Ceutha in north Morocco. This successful attack in 1415 inspired Prince Henry to explore Africa, most of which was unknown to Europeans. Prince Henry created the school of navigation.About 1418, Prince Henry started the first school for oceanic navigation along with an observatory at Sagres, Portugal. In this school, people were trained in navigation, map-making, and science, in order to sail down the west of Africa. Prince Henry of Navigation traveled all over the place like West Africa at this time, no Europeans had sailed past the treac herous Cape Bojador and returned alive. Cape Bojador is on the coast of Africa just below latitude. Prince Henry the Navigator established his own court at Sagres and sponsored voyages of discovery in the Madeira Island and along the western coast of Africa.As grand master of the Order of Christ, he gained funds for backing voyages aimed at the conversion of pagans. His patronage led to development of the Portuguese caravel and improved navigational instruments and the advancement cartography. See I told you can learn a lot from reading my essay I bet you barely knew some of the things I told you I even learned a lot to. Bibliography http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Henry_the_Navigator#Early_life http://www. enchantedlearning. com/explorers/page/h/henry. shtml

Chinese culture Essay

1. Executive Summary Business today is becoming more universal and it is common to travel around the world for business dealings. In order to clinch a business deal with parties of other countries, it is essential to do some research about the country first. This will provide critical information about their business tradition, etiquette issues and other factors that will allow easier acceptance of Singaporean business persons. China being the largest populated country of 1. 3 billion, with an area of 9,600,000 square kilometers, has a long history, unique culture and a wide variety of distinctive customs and traditions. She has been attracting foreigners to invest as there are plentiful resources and labour market, which are crucial in business dealings. Besides the factors that are mentioned above, other factors play essential roles as well. Guanxi and Mianzi are the foremost factors that Chinese businessmen take into account. Other factors include preparation for Chinese business meetings, knowledge of the Chinese Lijie, such as non-verbal communication and social relationships. Also, the Chinese banquet consisting table etiquette together with drinking and toasting. There will also be gift-giving, such as what should be considered to give and what should be avoided. Last but not least, different ways to negotiate with the Chinese for the best solution should be taken into consideration. In conclusion, having the knowledge of the Chinese etiquette will better help one to succeed in clinching more business dealings. At the same time, it also helps one to understand the culture and customs of Chinese. Therefore, this will not only do one good for business purposes, but also encourages common understanding amongst countries. 2. Introduction The People’s Republic of China, has a largest population of 1. 3 billion and a GDP of US$2393 billion. Thus, it has been eyed by many business executives due to its big market share and a large pool of labour which provides many business opportunities. In order to carry out business transactions efficiently with the Chinese, it is important for us to know what the prohibitions, customs and taboos are in China. By understanding these, we will be more prepared to conduct business with the Chinese. 2. 1 Meeting the Chinese. To begin with, the Chinese are very particular about first impressions. They prefer to be introduced formally to people as they are reluctant to strike up conversations with people they are unfamiliar with. A proper handshake will be most appropriate upon introduction. If one is being introduced to a group, remember to shake everyone’s hands. Also, stand up throughout, when being introduced or when presenting self. Begin introductions with his/her name, followed by the company’s name and specify the country that he/she is from. 2. 2 Business Cards. It is polite to use two hands to hold both corners when presenting business card and to position it so that it is legible to the recipient. Try to have one side of the card being translated and print the Chinese letters using gold ink as this is an auspicious colour. It will be respectful to spend a few seconds reading the card upon receiving it and helps in remembering one’s name. It is demeaning to put it directly into your pocket without glancing. If it is a sit-down meeting, place the card on the table so that one can look at it. 2. 3Conversations. Most Chinese like to engage in conversations concerning topics which they have knowledge on, such as weather, geography, Chinese cuisine, Chinese scenery and landmarks. Topics related to politics should be avoided. Dismiss personal questions with a little humour if uncomfortable. The Chinese would often compliment the country of origin. However, accepting praise outright is not considered as good etiquette for them. Instead, one is expected to deflect compliments and pretend it is unworthy of receiving them. 2. 4 Greetings Surnames come first when addressing a Chinese. In business situations, one will seldom concern themselves with a Chinese person’s given name. It is advisable to get straight how one should address someone at the first meeting. For business purposes, it is traditionally acceptable to call a Chinese by the surname, together with a title such as Managing Director Toh. 2. 5On the telephone Although Chinese may make arrangements through the phone, most Chinese prefers face-to-face meetings. On the telephone, the standard greeting is the word â€Å"wei†, which means â€Å"hello† or â€Å"are you still there† in Mandarin. Chinese often do not furnish any identifying information upon answering the phone; hence it is good to verify that one has reached the organization he/she intended to dial. 3. GuanXi – Relationships Personal relationships play a vital part in the business world of Chinese. Chinese businessmen do not rush into discussions and negotiations, as they want to get familiar with their business partners before doing business. This is known as Guanxi, which means â€Å"relationships†. It is the network of relationships among various parties that cooperate together and support one another. Before doing business, Chinese will extend hospitality to demonstrate their respect for others and appreciation of the finer things in life so as to soften their visitors. There will be small talk during the first full day, where Chinese learns about his visitor and goals. The evening during the welcome banquet, they would learn more as foreign visitors will open up during casual talks. Also, the visitors may visit the residence of their acquaintances from other organizations and bring some gifts as it is important for building and creating Guanxi. Gifts like foreign cigarettes and quality wines are acceptable, which will be discussed more at the later part of the report. Trust is built during such situations and Chinese would then be more comfortable to work with them. Relationships are not only between companies but also personal levels. Establishing a sincere, supportive relationship based on mutual respect is a fundamental aspect of Chinese culture. In the world of business, possessing the right Guanxi is crucial for ensuring the minimization of difficulties and frustrations that are often encountered and it is also important to any successful business strategy in China. 4. Mian Zi – Face Face, also known as Mianzi, is a mark of personal pride and forms the basis of an individual’s reputation and social status. Having face means having a high status in the eyes of one’s peers, and is a mark of personal dignity. It is a prized commodity, which can be given, lost, taken away or earned. Face to a Chinese, holds more importance and encompasses a greater part of life. In order to establish all important interpersonal relationships, face must always be created and maintained at all times. Losing face may be caused by, for example, public insult, chastisement or contradicting someone in front of another, and also, by ourselves, such as losing temper or losing your own control in public. Furthermore, rescinding an order can also be constructed as losing face. This is why Chinese leaders would rather follow the policies even if there are events that prove them that it is irrelevant. Causing someone to lose face through public humiliation or inappropriate allocation of respect to individuals within the organization can seriously damage business discussions. On the other hand, praising someone in moderation before their colleagues is a form of ‘giving face’ and can earn respect, loyalty and aid negotiations. Nevertheless, face is so important that it is justification for spending money even if the Chinese is not very rich. Money that may be set aside for emergency use may be used for buying gifts or accessories instead because of face. 5. Lijie- Art of Politeness Being polite is a type of basic courtesy one should possess. In China, personal feelings and hint of criticism should not be dealt with publicly as it might cause public embarrassment and unpleasantness. A glass of tea that is automatically set out in front of arriving guests is how the Chinese allows the guest to feel comfortable and appear gracious. 5. 1 Surface harmony Surface harmony is an essential skill because the world of Chinese etiquette is very insensitive to unpleasant genuine feelings as it concerns matter of â€Å"face†. To the Chinese, things are done more for show than for substance; for example, manners are tools which they use to maintain pleasantness at all times, even when it is not entirely felt. Surface harmony is disturbed when one expresses his/her disagreement. Therefore, it is advised to remain quiet and â€Å"give face† as it might result in sabotage, subversion or revenge as the Chinese are well capable of such actions. 5. 2Intermediaries Intermediaries can be useful in communicating something unpleasant to the Chinese, and they help to ask questions, as preservation of face and surface harmony is considered highly important to Chinese. Intermediaries are highly useful in negotiations as they provide back channels for information that might prove too sensitive or risky. However, anger may be expressed directly for strategic purposes. 5. 3 Social relationships Chinese manage their social relationships by an imaginary circle that surrounds them. Relatives, friends, neighbours, classmates and co-workers are within the circle. These people have relationships with one another and hence, bear some sort of obligation. Chinese tend to go all out for them, be it putting themselves at great inconvenience or even ethically questionable circumstances. The rest of the world, whom a Chinese treats like a stranger, remains outside of the circle to whom with no particular obligation. 5. 4 Non-verbal communication. Chinese have various non-verbal communications. Firstly, Chinese tends to have a shorter social distance compared to many western cultures, for example, a Chinese friend might stand a little close to you for comfort or breathing directly into your face when talking to you. Furthermore, if one steps backwards, his/her Chinese counterpart may advance accordingly. When dealing with a Chinese, particularly the older ones, one should not touch a member of the opposite sex you do not know extremely well as other types of physical contact can be misinterpreted. However, it is said to be perfectly acceptable for Chinese to be physical with members of the same sex. Traditionally, Chinese are seldom demonstrative with the opposite sex in public. Therefore, foreigners should keep in mind that they are well advised to avoid more passionate forms of contact besides holding hands with a companion. During a conversation, one should not slink down in chairs as they are deemed disrespectful. Furthermore, some Chinese will avoid meeting one’s eyes or smile. This is a sign of shyness or keeping feelings to themselves. Thus should not be confused with insincerity, unfriendliness or anger. Silence is a virtue for it represents reflection or a sign of politeness. Gestures such as â€Å"come here† by curling index finger upward, â€Å"okay† sign with thumb and forefinger forming a circle, and shrugging of shoulders showing â€Å"I don’t know† may not be understood by the Chinese. Nodding or shaking of head, thumbs-up and clapping of hands for applauding are universally accepted gestures. 5. 5 Ways to reject a Chinese Rejecting people or saying ‘no’ can result in losing face, therefore the Chinese devised a number of methods of refusing without saying ‘no’. Ways to reject are, saying to grant the wish would be â€Å"inconvenient† as it means there are political problems associated with fulfilling a request, or it is â€Å"under consideration† or â€Å"being discussed†. This generally means that something is unlikely to happen. Another way is to blame someone else for the roadblock by finding a scapegoat. Lastly, a Chinese may tell a lie such as inventing a story to get out of the uncomfortable position in which a person feels placed. 11. References and Acknowledgements 1. De Mente Boye. (2004). Chinese etiquette & ethics in business. Boston: McGraw-Hill. 2. Scott D. Seligman. (1999). Chinese Business Etiquette: a guide to protocol, manners, and culture in the People’s Republic of China. United States of America: A Time Warner Company 3. About. com: China Online (n. d. ). Retrieved on June 13, 2007. http://chineseculture. about. com/od/businessculture/Chinese_Business_Culture. htm 4. Communicaid global communication: doing business in China. (n. d. ). Retrieved on June 13, 2007. http://www. communicaid. com/chinese-business-culture. asp 5. Chinese Culture. (n. d. ). Retrieved on June 13, 2007. http://www. chinese-culture. net/html/chinese_business_culture. html 6. Kwintessential- Language and culture specialists (n. d. ). Retrieved on June 13, 2007. http://www. kwintessential. co. uk/cultural-services/articles/china-business-culture. html 7. China’s GDP grows 10. 7% in 2006. (January 25, 2007). ChinaDaily. com. cn. Retrieved on June 25, 2007. from http://www. chinadaily. com. cn/china/2007-01/25/content_792311_2. htm 8. Economy – Economic Structure & Trends. (2006). Retrieved on June 20, 2007. http://china-europe-usa. com/level_4_data/eco/042_3. htm 9. China – Business etiquette, manners and cross cultural communication. (n. d. ). Retrieved on June 15, 2007. http://www. cyborlink. com/besite/china. htm 10. China – Business & Travel Etiquette. (n. d. ). Retrieved on June 15, 2007. http://www. crazycolour. com/os/china_02. shtml 11. Business Card Etiquette by Neil Payne. (n. d. ). Retrieved on June 15, 2007. http://www. sideroad. com/Business_Etiquette/business-card-etiquette. html.