Satire and irony by Jonathan Swift

Satire and irony are the main literary tools used by Jonathan Swift in A Modest Proposal and Gulliver’s Travels. The author has used irony to create satire in making the audience see the deeper truths within the prevailing social, moral and political circumstances prevailing during the time. While making a comparison between A Modest Proposal and Gulliver’s Travels, one can see that the author has used satire, irony and satirical settings in highlighting the problems and contradictions present in society. The author also intends to make comments on such circumstances without intentionally addressing the reader for his response. In both A Modest Proposal and Gulliver’s Travels, Jonathan Swift has used irony and satire to achieve certain goals primarily because of the disparity in the structure of each work. There is a strong variance in the use of satire in A Modest Proposal and Gulliver’s Travels. A Modest Proposal is certainly a satire which aims at making people of that period to realize the patterns of cold and calculated callousness demonstrated by forthright rationalism in dealing with issues related to poverty and over population. Swift’s works fall under two kinds of satire; the formal and the indirect. Formal satire is narrated in first person while indirect satire is in the form of the character appealing to the audience. A Modest Proposal is an indirect satire since the author speaks on behalf of a character who proposes to provide solutions to an audience that is primarily anonymous while addressing the political economy. The satire used by Swift in A Modest Proposal is aptly demonstrated by the following; I have been assured by a very knowing American of my acquaintance in London, that a young healthy child well nursed is at a year old a most delicious, nourishing, and wholesome food, whether stewed, roasted, baked, or boiled; and I make no doubt that it will equally serve in a fricassee or a ragout† (Swift, 1996). The irony in A Modest Proposal has been presented by the author mainly through characterization whereby the speaker makes the proposals. For example the speaker in A Modest Proposal who is ironic is able to discuss coldly about the social and economic advantages of killing children and then eating them without a tinge or presence of any thought being given to the related moral problems. The irony exhibited by this character does reveal that he can just go on criticizing the moral weak points of mothers who undergo immoral acts such as abortions and committing infanticide. In a dramatic and very ironic statement, one of the characters in A Modest Proposal balks at the prospect of eating teen-agers because it amounts to cruelty, which is in stark contrast to the other suggestions in it. The characters in A Modest Proposal use satire and irony in indirectly telling the readers to ignore the other options and ideas thus giving an example of being represented by the most terrible social planners and politicians. The character can make ironical statements in making them to appear perfectly economical without appearing to comprehend the appalling nature of the same. For example, on one occasion the character talks about selling children as food, which is narrated in A Modest Proposal as â€Å"I grant this food [children] will be somewhat dear, and therefore very proper for landlords, who, as they have already devoured most of the parents, seem to have the best title to the children. † Indeed this is a very powerful statement in being disguised as being the meaning that conveys the philosophy of the speaker and in addressing the fact that the rich land owners of England and Ireland had taken away all that the poor inhabitants had. Such ironic narrations in A Modest Proposal convey to the reader in a rather cold manner about how children’s skin can be used in making †¦ â€Å"admirable gloves for ladies and summer boots for fine gentlemen†. It appears quite normal and nothing extraordinary for the narrator to rattle out such ironical words in implying as if it was something very simple and beautiful. The inherent irony in A Modest Proposal does make the reader understand the dangers involved in blindly adhering to a single philosophy especially when the entire population is likely to be adversely influenced. Verbal irony is the main figure of speech in A Modest Proposal, whereby the character says exactly the opposite of what he intends to mean. Swift has tactfully used such a device in making his arguments about the Irish people deserving improved conduct from the English, which is indeed extremely amusing and powerful. In pointing out that the Irish should not be ill treated as animals, Swift has written, â€Å"I rather recommend buying the children alive, and dressing them hot from the knife, as we do roasting pigs. In Gulliver’s Travels, Jonathan Swift has made the bureaucracy of England as the main target of irony and satire. Gulliver’s Travels is primarily a work of satire. According to Rodino , â€Å"Gulliver is neither a fully developed character nor even an altogether distinguishable persona; rather, he is a satiric device enabling Swift to score satirical points† (Rodino, 1992). Sure the work begins with a lot of satire in attacking the different political machines. Primarily, however, Gulliver's Travels is a work of satire. â€Å"Gulliver is neither a fully developed character nor even an altogether distinguishable persona; rather, he is a satiric device enabling Swift to score satirical points† (Rodino, 1992). Indeed, whereas the work begins with more specific satire, attacking perhaps one political machine or aimed at one particular custom in each instance, it finishes with â€Å"the most savage onslaught on humanity ever written,† satirizing the whole of the human condition. Murry, 1972). During the time of Swift, the monarchy in England had lot of influence in most realms including law despite the increasing power of the bureaucracy. It is this aspect which has been made as the object of satire in Gulliver’s Travels by way of the actions of the Lilliputians who take detailed stock of the possessions of Gulliver and in being prone to making official proclamations about the factors that governed the life of Gulliver along with that of the other citizens. This is evident from what Gulliver remarks in an important quote from Gulliver’s Travels, â€Å"I could not sufficiently wonder at the intrepidity of these diminutive mortals, who durst venture to mount and walk on my body, while one of my hands was at liberty, without trembling at the sight of prodigious creature as I must appear to them† (Swift, 1983). Such overpowering self importance is an example of the satire used by Jonathan Swift in Gulliver’s Travels. It can be seen that a small and unimportant matter can be transformed and made into a bureaucratic and political issue of great importance. The satire is also evident for example when there is a war between Blefuscu and Lilliput because the Emperor cut his finger with an egg shell and there was no consensus about the best way to break the egg. This is evident from the quote from the book, â€Å"Whereupon the Emperor published an edict, commanding all his subjects, under great penalties, to break the smaller end of their eggs. The people so highly resented this law, that our histories tell us there have been six rebellions raised on this account† (Swift, 1983). The war had specifically broken out between Blefuscu and Lilliput because the debate ended without any conclusion being arrived at in regard to interpreting which end of the egg was smaller. For the author of Gulliver’s Travels, Lilliput represents England while Blefuscu represents France. In narrating this story, Swift has satirized the aimless bickering and power struggle between the two countries. The introduction of Lilliput in Gulliver’s Travels is indicative of an absurd and miniature England instead of a distant Utopia. In conveying the description of the government and the land it is made clear that despite the Lilliputians suffering from the same faults as present in the English society, they possessed several principles that allowed them to have a Utopian existence, particularly when its comparison was made with England. After Gulliver escapes from Lilliput he goes to England and returns back to sea after some time. This time he lands in a strange land where he is the smaller one as compared to Llliput but is alone in this world and when he does encounter the first inhabitants he gets scared, â€Å"for as human creatures are observed to be more savage in proportion to their bulk† (Swift, 1983). This indicates that Swift has used satire in attacking humanity for their ways. The satire in Gulliver’s Travels reaches the pinnacle whereby â€Å"Swift put his most biting, hard lines, that speak against not only the government, but human nature itself† (Paij, 2009). Using a great deal of irony, Swift makes Gulliver to come in contact with the Yahoos when he comments about a Yahoo, â€Å"My horror and astonishment are not to be described, when I observed in this abdominal animal a perfect human figure† (Swift, 1983). Gulliver ponders that the basic difference between him and the yahoo was the absence of clothes and cleanliness; otherwise the animal was no less than a human. In making such narrations Swift achieved his goal in expressing the satire in showing that humans have overpowering flaws which ultimately lead to the degradation of man. He has used a satirical technique in Gulliver’s Travels in order to attack modernity. He is seen as being concerned about the enhanced power of Europeans throughout the world, the nastiness of the privileged and the increasing importance of wealth for achieving happiness in life (Harold, 1986). Swift took Gulliver on four voyages which made him have a larger understanding of the flaws in human nature. Gulliver’s perceptions about humans and the world change and it is the change in his narrations that conveys the author’s social commentary and satire. Gulliver’s image of humans is not much influenced after the first voyage and so is the case for the second one. But his image of humans declines steadily by the end of the fourth voyage when he comes across the Yahoos. It is in this way that Swift has presented his opinion about human conditions.

A Day at the Beach in Cape Hatteras, North Carolina

When I woke up in the morning my mind began to run wild; imaging my fun filled day at the beach.   I imagined the warm sun wrapped around my back, as the warm sand rolled through my toes.I smelled the salty sweetness of the ocean waves that would soon carry me to bliss.   I saw parents with their children laughing and playing along the shore, as small waves crashed against their ankles.  Ã‚   I could not wait to get to the beach.After my mind calmed down, I quickly jumped out of bed and ran to the window to see the sun of my thoughts.   To my dismay, the sun was not there.   My eyes moved rapidly, searching for any possible sign of the sun’s rays.   All I could see was numerous thick gray clouds suffocating the sun and its rays.I told myself I would not let a few clouds interfere with my day at the beach.   I moved with haste, as I put on my favorite orange swim trunks outlined with blue stripes.I threw on a white tank top, grabbed my float, threw my big blue bea ch towel across my back and headed for the beach.   When I got out the door I heard the faint sounds of thunder in the distance.   I then turned up my nose and sniffed the air for any odor of rain to come. I only hoped that lighting was not far behind.I did not know how the weather was going to behave so I grabbed my float and tucked it under my arm and ran into the ocean.   My body began to shiver as I felt the cold waves rush against my feet. While my body adjusted to the temperature change, I sat on my float legs dangling on each side and waded close to the shore. I watched parents as their faces changed from gleeful smiles to concerned glares, as their eyes searched the dubitable sky.All of a sudden a loud crack of thunder pierced my ears. My body reacted immediately, as I jumped and slipped off of my float. I wasn’t too far from the shore, which enabled my feet to hit the surface.   I eagerly looked at the sky and saw a flash of lighting.   I grabbed my float a nd began to swim back, as I saw disappointed children reluctantly go inside from the beckoning call of their parents.Before I could put my feet back on sand, the sky immediately cleared up.   The sun came roaring out from behind the clouds announcing its return.   The gray clouds dispersed quickly as if they were afraid of the sun’s strength.   I gazed throughout the sky looking for any sign of bad weather.   To my surprise the day began to turn into my early thoughts of the beach.I was extremely happy with the new turn of events.   I reached shore and threw down my float and began to run through the sand.   I was so ecstatic that I stepped on three sandcastles, and tripped over a red shovel and bucket that one of the children left in the sand.   I rejoiced, as I ran down the beach along the shore.   My feet were moving swiftly, as I swung my arms to catch as much wind as possible.I stopped a half a mile down the stretch of the beach, when something clear and shiny caught my eyes.   I walked over slowly to the unknown object, careful not to disrupt its peace.   The closer I got, the more I began to realize what was before me.  Ã‚   This was my first encounter with a jellyfish.The jellyfish washed up close to shore because of the slight storm.   The waves must have carried it in. I was about to examine the jellyfish, when the tide rushed in and pulled it back into the ocean.   Just being able to see a real jellyfish in its natural habitat made my day at Cape Hatteras beach one the best.

Unit 2 module Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Unit 2 module - Assignment Example The opposite is true in the case of unfavorable variance, where the amount set aside in the budget is less than the actual expenses to get met. For this case, the organization will experience budget deficit, and some items in the budget will get forgone or postponed unless borrowing or further funding get undertaken by the firm. c) Some variances are usually nil or zero. This arises from the accurate budget estimation done by the organization. Favorable and unfavorable variances often result from an organization’s lack of the exact projection or rather forecasting on the accrual expense in its various variables, both patient and non-patient revenues. Other also arises from an organization’s failure to give the estimate on the exact value of the expenses, both personal and non-personal, and the income over or under expenses. d) The possible primary cause of favorable variance is the organizations overestimation on the actual price of the particular variable. It can also arise as fall in the future price or cost of the particular variable, such that relatively the budgeted value is higher than the real value. As a result of this, the estimated value exceeds the actual value leading to a positive difference, which, in this case, is the favorable variance. The possible primary cause of unfavorable variance is underestimation of the real future price of the particular variable, for example, net salaries and wages. The other possible cause is the increase in the future price or cost of the particular variable, such that the budgeted value is relatively lesser than the actual value. For these two cases, the amount set aside for the budget ends up getting lower than the real value of the variable, hence a negative difference, which results in unfavorable variances. e) Positive variances are always favorable. This

Business so Foreign Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Business so Foreign - Essay Example This paper will briefly but sufficiently provide an explanation for this. China has long been dubbed as the sleeping giant. However, the past three decades saw its awakening as it experience unprecedented economic growth and development. From being a communist republic for a long time it had open its doors to globalization and new economic policies in 1979 (China 2005). This new economic system has paved the way for progress. Currently, China is the sixth largest economy in the world recording the highest growth in real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 9.5% during 2004. China's GDP was recorded at US$1.96 trillion in during the same year which is equivalent to 1/7 of the United States' economy. China is now known to be the "new economic giant" (Gulob, 2003). A small business trying to break into the foreign market can well establish its operation in China. As one of the recently emerging and developing economy, China poses various business opportunities. Simultaneous with the rise in its GDP is the increase in the country's per capita GDP. This, in turn indicates a higher income for individuals and more money to spend. A small business entity can take advantage of this rise in income by offering the Chinese market new and innovative products. Another reason why China is considered is its relatively lower wage rate. On the average, a Chinese gets $0.40 a day (Hennock 2002). This vast pool of cheap worker can be utilized to the advantage of a small entity as it does not have a large resource to cover high amount of expenses. This implies a huge cost savings for entrepreneurs to invest in other capital needed in their operations. Philippines The Philippines is one of the world's developing economies in the Southeast Asia. Economically, the performance of the country is not impressive due to the constant devaluation of its currency and economic unrest due to political issues (Philippines 2005). However, this country is a promising destination for a start-up business entity. Foreign investments are highly encouraged in the Philippines. In fact, the Bureau of Investments offers numerous incentives such as: income tax holidays; exemption from taxes and duties on imported spare parts; exemption from wharfage dues and export tax, duty, impost and fees; tax exemptions on breed and genetic materials; tax credits; and additional deductions from taxable income to foreign investors (Fiscal Incentives 2005). Another advantage in doing business in the Philippines is its cheap pool of skilled workers. The average wage rate in the country is $3-$6 a day (Manpower Costs 2005). However, the country boasts of its over a million secondary school graduates and 350,000 college graduates annually. The Philippine market is also distinct for its highly Westernized way of living. A large factor which contributed to this is the long period of colonization under the United States. Filipinos are known to have colonial mentality and are very "Americanized." This has a good implication for a small firm as this indicates a large acceptance and preference for foreign products. India India lags behind the economic giants Japan and China in the Asian continent. India is one of the world's largest markets in the world with a population of 1.1 billion. The country continues its economic development following the market-oriented reforms in 1991. A small business trying to

Waste Management Strategy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Waste Management Strategy - Research Paper Example The basic aim was to derive the analytical framework guiding different phases of this Project. Goals of Project (Week 1): The project performed a business simulation on the T5 programme using important theoretical study features resulting in the following hypothesis to be tested as per current progress: the T5 programme is on schedule and within the project management scope of costs, time and budgetary constraints. The sub-goals of the project were identified in terms of research goals: Results presentation (Weeks 1-2): A detailed planning made for of different areas of interest for T5 programme: 1. Reviewing current status at T5; 2.Analysing the research questions; 3. Discussing basic methods of waste management being employed; 4. Points to be kept in mind for design e.g. software such as Autodesk; 5. Recycling methods (85% recycling results); 6. Environmental concerns/legislative actions.; 7. Operational risk management study; 8. Other aspects such as finances, etc. The author's main purpose in presenting all possible result areas, was to achieve a reasonable amount of self-sufficiency in tackling any future challenging projects (provided they meet funding criteria) and to develop a solid career in this emerging field. 2. Literature Review Raw Data sources (Weeks 2-5): During this phase, the author researched different learning materials (both research as well as case studies) to determine whether the T5 construction project was being handled efficiently (Refer Week 1 hypothesis). The literature sources varied from BAA brochures to various data collected from field sources. A significant deficiency in this proposal was the lack of primary data (interviews). Since the T5 project is currently under construction, it was proprietary and classified information not available in public domain. Upon a request to consultants dealing in recycle strategies as applied to design and development, most declined to comment on the exact nature of these strategies, especially the financial parts and the underlying methods in isolating key materials being used. The best guess was to look into a case study approach based on inferential and exploratory data from secondary sources. Development of data sources (Weeks 5-9): The most important phase of the project, the main aim was to build up the state of the art in relation to T5

Patrimony controversy of the Treasure of Troy Research Paper

Patrimony controversy of the Treasure of Troy - Research Paper Example Heinrich’s ease with which he learned different languages enabled him to land a good job in an import export firm. It was there that he acquired a small fortune that enabled him to start on his dream of finding the city of Troy where he believed; he would get Priam’s treasure (Krystek). However, according to many archeologists Heinrich was not considered that much of an archeologist and they claimed that it was due to luck that he even acquired the treasures. Heinrich started his excavations in 1871 using â€Å"The lliad† as a map to guide him in Hissarlick. He however had to sign an agreement with the Turkish government promising to give them a percentage of the treasures. In 1873 Heinrich found treasure there that included golden earrings, necklaces, pots of silver, gold and other items such as gold diadems believed to have been worn by queens and princesses. He also found the mask of Agamemnon in Mycenae, in Greece. Most of this treasure was believed to be own ed by King Priam who ruled Troy. He, however, left Turkey with the treasure without giving the government anything and was later sued and was fined $5000, which he gladly paid ten times over since he needed to dig for more treasures (Krystek). The whole troy treasure controversy, which dates as early as 1880, was brought about by Heinrich himself, who first discovered it in troy then smuggled it to Greece. Later during his old age he decided, he needed a permanent home for the Treasure of Troy and donated it to a museum in Berlin, Germany where it stayed till 1945 (Meyer). It was then lost in the Second World Wa

Society Comparison Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Society Comparison Paper - Essay Example It needs to be realized that currently all societies of the world are battling with the Environmental concerns. Whereas Orkney Society can be classified as a â€Å"surviving† society, it nevertheless has its own set of concerns and improvisations that can improve its environmental conditions. Nevertheless, in contrast with Norse Greenland Society, Orkney society undoubtedly lives. The Orkney and Greenland societies both belong to the Viking colonies of North Atlantic. Orkney survived whereas Greenland saw its demise after a time span of 450 years. Four major environmental factors have been recognized for this difference of fate of both societies; ocean distances between Norway and Britain, resistance offered by non-Viking residents of the region, suitability for agricultural productions and environmental fragility in terms of soil erosion and deforestation (Diamond). Orkney is a continental Island, surrounded by water from its northern tip. It proved to be the naval base for B ritish forces in both world wars. With respect to environmental concerns, Orkney has left no stone unturned in its attempt to provide a better living standard for its residents. Currently, the Orkney Islands Council’s Environmental Health Team is responsible for identifying and devising possible solutions for any activity that poses a risk to the health and well-being of the citizens (Orkney Islands Council). Education and awareness is being spread about the environmental concerns and ways of tackling it. At present, all residents of Orkney Islands are entitled to quality air, atmosphere, water, soil, land and landscape as well as factors affecting the quality of these (Orkney Islands Council). Environmental conservation has been the Orkney’s primary concern. On the other hand, Norse Greenland was naturally deficient in resources like metallic elements, and was also incapable of exploration due to the absence of ships and manpower. It was invaded by the Vikings during 1200 AD. Skirmishes between the Natives and the Vikings (called Innuits) did not allow peace to be established in the region. Greenland was also incapable of promoting agricultural activities in their region due to the extreme climate. This had caused the people of Greenland to migrate out of the region as the Climate changed dramatically. The current climatic change can now be scientifically attributed to Global Warming, which also caused the rise of water tables (Karen). Greenland could not practice environmental conservation, partly due to natural deficiencies and partly on behalf of their harsh climatic conditions and Viking colonization. Hence the Norse Greenland society collapsed after a mere 450 years of desperate survival. The energy resources for Greenland are not clearly documented, but the time line suggests these resources would not have been â€Å"green† fuels. On the other hand, Orkney has established an Environmental concerns agency by the name of ECO, which tr ies to make everything environment-friendly – from fuels to recycling etc. The energy sources for Orkney include renewable sources like tidal, solar, wind and wave powers (ECO). The population of Greenland, in 1000AD numbered at 500 people, which increased with the subsequent invasion by the Innuit Vikings (Diamond). The population of Orkney, according to 2011 statistics, is numbered at 19,590 people (True

U.S. Government's Bailouts Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

U.S. Government's Bailouts - Research Paper Example The debt ratio of the company was 2.11. The firm was highly leveraged which led to the high fixed costs associated with debt financing. The debt of the company was more than twice its total assets. Providing governmental assistance to corporations such as General Motors is a way for the government to spur economic activity. Governmental assistance can ensure that companies that are facing financial trouble keep their doors open . Prior to the governmental assistance General Motors was near shutting down their operations. In the short run companies get a capital injection that can be used to cover operating expenses which includes both variable and fixed costs. The fixed costs of the company increase in the long run if the assistance that is given is in the form of debt financing. From the perspective of the government the assistance given protects jobs and government tax revenues. In the case of General Motors the long run consequence of the bailout was that the firm had to give up a lot of equity to the government in exchange for the governmental assistance. General Motors has recovered well since its reorganization in 2008. The current price of GM common stocks is $34.48 (Yahoo, 2014). The organization has a global workforce composed of 1.9 million employees. The firm is a socially responsible organization. Its product portfolio of vehicles includes hybrid / electric cars. The company on November 18, 2010 completed the world’s largest initial public offering, emerging with a solid financial foundation that enabled GM to produce great vehicles for their customers and build a bright future for its employees, partners and shareholders (Gm, 2014). In fiscal year 2013 General Motors generated $155 billion in revenues and it had a net income of $3.8 billion. The net margin of GM in 2013 was 2.45%. When a company employs directly 1.9 million people it is always worth saving such an organization.

The Iliad or the Poem of Force Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Iliad or the Poem of Force - Essay Example It is not a story of people but how force is being used to subjugate other people and cow them. Many people were mistaken on this aspect of the story and therefore failed to focus on a real moral lesson which is how force is the big determinant among people's relationships. It has a power to influence people and shape the course of events in history as well. Her insights into Iliad had forced people to think again of the real story in terms of a force that de-humanizes people, both of the protagonists in any conflict. The psychological and the emotional effects of the use of force scars the people who use force to intimidate the other people as well as the recipients or victims of the force being applied. It can intoxicate or numb the people who have the power to use force because it blinds them to its ill effects. War can never be justified, even those so-called pre-emptive wars designed to prevent further wars by striking at the enemy first and therefore spare the populace of a wid er conflagration. It can be seen in the after-effects of so many wars in which soldiers return home like zombies. They stop caring and thinking; soon, they engage in self-hatred (Bell, 1998, p. 186). From her point of view, there are no winners in a war no matter how this is justified. She had expressed this perspective in her numerous writings stating the futility and brutality of wars (Bell, 1993, p. 149).

Johnson & Johnson Tylenol Crisis Essay Example for Free

Johnson Johnson Tylenol Crisis Essay Johnson Johnson had manufactured Extra-Strength Tylenol in capsule and tablet form since 1959. Tylenol became one of Johnson Johnson’s most successful products, accounting for 17 percent of the company’s profits. Extra-Strength Tylenol constituted 70 percent of all Tylenol sales. Johnson Johnson also enjoyed a tremendous amount of trust and goodwill from the public, nurtured in part by its adherence to the company credo of responsibility to customers, employees, shareholders, and the community. In 1982, seven people in the Chicago area died after taking Extra-Strength Tylenol capsules that were laced with cyanide. After this incident, the CEO of Johnson Johnson was faced with very serious, important decisions; should he recall only the extra strength Tylenol in Chicago or nationwide? He was also concerned that this incident would forever ruin the Tylenol name, even after the investigation, proved that the tampering did not occur within the company. I would have advised the CEO of the company to make a public announcement, assuring the pubic that these cases were isolated to the Chicago area, that this was by no way caused by the negligence of Johnson Johnson employees. Also, he would need to state that the company is doing everything possible to ensure that this does not occur again and that they were working closely with the authorities to determine the cause. I would also advise a nationwide recall. I believe that a recall should have been issued for the entire nation. Although this would cause a significant loss for the company, it would save their reputation. It would ensure the customers that the CEO was doing everything possible to protect them, which would help reestablish their trust in the company. If a recall were not issued, people still would not be buying the product and it would sit on shelves for months, even years, because people would always be fearful they would get a bad batch. If a recall were issued, this would not be called into question. The new batches would be issued with a tamper evident seal and there would be no question whether or not they were tampered with again. From an economic point of view, recalling the product resulted in a loss of an estimated $150 million dollars. Legally speaking, recalling the product could have saved Johnson Johnson millions of dollars in law suits not to mention certain laws that they had to abide by through the food and drug administration. Morally, Johnson Johnson did the right thing. They removed their product from store shelves, re-embedded a certain amount of trust in their company and potentially saved many, many more lives. These results do not significantly differ from the decision Johnson Johnson eventually made. Economically, the company suffered for a short period of time, but returned full force after precautions were made to ensure this never happened again, sealing the future of the company, literally and figuratively. The company benefitted from their credo because they stated their responsibilities and what they valued to the public which reinstated a certain amount of trust in the company again. There are other companies since Johnson Johnson that could have used a similar credo, for instance the peanut butter incident and the formula incident (both from a couple years ago). Both of these cases were similar because it involved poisoning of a product. The companies also eventually bounced back from the incident. I believe that the credo had a great deal to do with saving the company brand because it stated all of the main goals and responsibilities of Johnson Johnson. However, I think that developing the tamper-resistant packaging, recalling the product, and distributing over 80 million in coupons also had a great deal to do with it. Without all of these factors though, who knows whether or not the company would have been able to recover from this incident. I believe that Johnson Johnson should not have continued to market the capsule form as soon as it returned to the market. The incident was too fresh in the publics’ mind for it to sell as well as it had before the incident. I do however feel that the capsule form should have been reintroduced to the market after a few years. Upon discovering that there was another death three years later from a similar incident, I would advise the company to ensure that this death was not from the previously recalled batch. Also, since this incident was isolated to one person, it would seem that someone tampered with that particular bottle. With all of the new tamper-resistant packaging it would be nearly impossible for someone to poison a bottle with it going unnoticed. However, I would advise the CEO of Johnson Johnson to inform the public of the incident instead of trying to conceal it. I would be much more interested in purchasing a product from an honest company than one who hides mishaps.

Issues of the Increased Elderly Population

Issues of the Increased Elderly Population The â€Å"Greying of America†, refers to the endurance in our seniors which is tugging on all the resources in our society. People are living longer healthier lives. This is a good thing and a bad thing. Are we ready to meet these demands on our society in the long term? Some believe this will be a financial burden on Medicare, long-term care, public pensions and financial programs.The aging population has multiple facets; including the financial, physical, emotional, and psychologicalneeds represented in society. There is increased question if our Social Security and Medicare System will hold out to care for this generation.How will supply and demand be met when there are fewer in the work force? How will the money in Social Security System last, when less is being put in? â€Å"A large population of the United States is old and non-working. Almost 24 percent of the population in US is over 50 years old.† http://www.naswdc.org/pressroom/features/issue/aging.asp Officials refer to this changing time in our history as the â€Å"Greying of America†. For a long time over population was stated in our country and others, like China. One child in China and in the United States two children were plenty, now, it seems the baby boomer generation will be the largest demographic, the older generation. Some of the baby boomers have already reached this time in their lives. Baby Boomers were born in the years 1946 to 1964. If you do the math those born in 1946 are now 67, which is retirement age or it was. Retirement age used to be 65, but as the demands on our economy, so the retirement age is pushed back. Some say 72 is the new retirement age.â€Å"Statistics project that by 2030, Americans 65 and older will actually outnumber their younger counterparts. With the aging of the baby boomer generation and the lengthening of life spans, both the number and proportion of older people are rapidly increasing. Many of the health related problems that contributed to decreased life span have been combated†. http://www.naswdc.org/pressroom/features/issue/aging. Another question is housing, some live in their homes, assisted living, nursing homes or independent living, but will there be enough structure in place to meet these growing needs? There are also the needs of the families, caring for their elderly parents, while raising their children, and working. An article written by Joan Mooney, â€Å"Housing America’s Graying Population, she states: Eighty to 90 percent of Americans want to â€Å"age in place,† either in their current home or in their neighborhood. But most homes and communities are not set up to house the elderly. And also in an interview with Henry Cisneros, former Hud Secretary, he stated, â€Å"The solution will lie not just in individual homes, but also in the surrounding communities. The number-one fear of people as they age is isolation,† said Cisneros. â€Å"They need to be able to get to the doctor, stores, parks, and other public amenities† (Mooney). http://urbanland.uli.org/infrastructure-transit/housing-america-s-graying-population/ Another area of concern, are the growing needs for professional social workers for this demographic in our society. Will there be enough workers for all the needs characterized by this growing segment? Social workers serve as advocates for the older people and their families, providing necessary connections for the services needed. As these demographics change and grow there is a growing requirement for social workers to provide for the necessities of these individuals and their families. There are also questions about how this generation will be taken care of since the largest part of the population will be older, and less will be in the market place. Social workers are essential to this growing segment in our population. The professional, skilled social worker, who is equipped in problem solving, can lend peace, security and hope to the individual. They are knowledgeable about how human behavior, social, financial, and cultural issues, and how they relate and affect daily lives. So, as there are economic factors that lead to nervousness about the future of our economic growth. There are also valid arguments for supply and demand. Yes there are possibly less workers in the work force, though people are working longer. There are new or growing markets for healthcare, housing, social work intervention and pharmaceuticals, among other things that will drive the economy. There is definitely going to be cause for growth in the Gerontology field. Currently this is not an area, where social workers tend to stay due to financial restrictions, among other things. In a testimony given by: Worker needed to avoid a dangerous outcome, for the coming era. She also advocates education and marketing to avert the common ideas that are related to working with older generation. That it is depressing working with the sick and the dying. A perception also exists that there are few personal, professional, and societal rewards for working with older people. Social Workers need to take an aggressive approach to change the opinions that older individuals lack value, these needs to change in the hearts of Americans and in the hearts of the people reaching this age. It is also concluded, NASW agrees that the existing health care workforce will be inadequate to meet the needs of older Americans. They believe the Federal Government should be involved and encouraged towards loan forgiveness, stipends for students and faculty, and financial support for field placements in geriatrics to be able to attract and retain social workers and other health care professionals in the field of geriatrics.† The reason I include large portions of this article is I believe that will support and show this so-called Greying America does not have to be a problem. It can be solved through its own counterparts. We the nation and the other surrounding developed nations can use their own resources with the help of professionals. With encouragement, marketing, education and direction people can live functional lives even in old age. As the baby boomer generation is different in a variety of ways, this can add enthusiasm to the discussion because, this generation does not want to stop and sit in a rocking chair. Yes, as boomers age, they will put increasing burdens on the health care and financial system. There is proof that there is a shortage in practitioners in the area dealing with aged population. And there is proof that medical advances have taken place due to this encroaching segment in the population. The fact that the older generation is trying to stay younger through exercise and prevention and taking care of themselves is causing innovation in the medical industry. It has been said that many core nations are working toward and getting honestly prepared for the rise in the elder population. There is always the concern for the impoverished segment, like elderly, single women, and some minorities that are on the fringes. But that is where the social worker can be a benefit, searching for crucial answers and direction, and educating society to the benefits age can provide, so the stereotypes can change and empower the elderly, especially in their own attitudes. The cultural views on aging have changed also. Before this age, before the industrial revolution, our elders were given great respect. The family included the elders, grandparents in the home. They helped raise the grandchildren and provided wisdom in the home. But cultural views have changed and the older population doesn’t seem as necessary or crucial to the family and the world. The stereotype of the older population depicts them as old and feeble, they are a drag on society, in their usefulness and value. In many cultures the elders were revered and needed now they are replaced by youthfulness and vigor. They are shuffled off to nursing homes instead of being an integral part of the home. There is great concern over finances, will our economy survive when varying resources are changing. Coming from the perspective of belonging to the ‘baby boomer generation and reading various articles, this generation was a change from previous generations. There was an increase in money to be spent and less saved. There became more emphasis on pleasure and leisure. After the depression, the financial world allowed for more to be had, with a blink of an eye. You did not have to save, before buying as our parents did. So, is this generation ready to quit the market place? Many are working longer due to the need to save and get out of debt. This can be a good thing as working enriches lives, keeps the brain sharp and hopefully the body more nimble. So this is cause and effect, our society is living longer, less population, so we now have to control the somewhat adverse effects of an older population? Or is it an adversity? Are older people nonproductive residues in our environment? Maybe because I am a part of that generation, I believe they have contributions, yet to give. Mother Theresa was older when she passed from this world. Should she have been pushed into a corner to die? I do not believe so. She was a great asset to the community in our world. My mother, until recently resided in our home for years. Now she is in Oregon with the rest of my family, but she is valued and loved. I do not think people intend to relegate the elderly to the corner, but pressures in the home, finances and social perspective seem to guide us there. The Social Work profession wants to work to change these notions and show people their worth, through, information, education, counselling, community assistance and many other problem solving community and government actions. What can be done to change the present outcome? We need to let people continue to contribute in their own way, so they can feel their worth. Yes, generally they cannot move as fast, even think or talk as fast as you or I. But they can show and teach us, if we are willing to learn and listen. We have learned by studying History that we can change things and have a better outcome for the future if we do not repeat mistakes. I believe when families co-existed, the family unit had a greater strength and fortitude to weather storms. Culturally, the breakdown of the family unit exists, but the foundations can still be built through relationships and assistance to the needy. Through reaching out in the community, and again this can be directed with social assistance. S ocial workers in this environment are trying to instill life in the elder patient and the family giving them direction, and assistance through the transition, of being the giver to the receiver as an older person is. But we can still allow them to give through their lives, if we are willing to receive. Working in the public, networking, people are not satisfied to stop at a certain age, but press on to learn new things. There are many people re-inventing themselves at different walks in their lives, to allow for change, challenge and growth as individuals, who will benefit society. This benefit can come in the form of financial advantage and socially for our society as a whole to counter affect the challenges of a so-called decaying society. With encouragement, marketing, education and direction people can live functional lives even in old age. Sources Gibelman, M. (1995). What Social Workers Do (4th ed.). Washington, DC. NASW Press. Dunkle, R.E., Norgard, T. (1995). Aging Overview. In R.L. Edwards (Ed.-in-Chief), Encyclopedia of Social Work (19th ed., Vol. 1, pp. 142-153). Washington, D.C.: NASW Press. Zuniga, M.E. (1995). Aging: Social Work Practice. In R.L. Edwards (Ed.-in-Chief), Encyclopedia of Social Work (19th ed., Vol. 1, pp. 173-183). Washington, D.C.: NASW Press.

The Ethics of the Salary of Professional Athletes Essay -- Athletes Sp

The Ethics of the Salary of Professional Athletes My claim is that it is unethical for professional athletes to receive the enormous amount of compensation that they do. By Unethical I mean that it is an injustice to the citizens of our hard working country that are out to make a dollar and do it by holding a well respected job. By compensation I mean the ridiculous amounts of money that an athlete makes for playing a particular sport. My value criteria or standards I will use are as follows: 1. A man who does not graduate college may not be as qualified to make the salaries that exist. 2. Ridiculous salaries is setting an example for our youth that just because you can hit a baseball or shoot a basketball or shoot a hockey puck or throw a football that you can make millions of dollars without truly earning it. 3. An athlete who graduates college deserves money based on his collegiate experience. I will argue the point of graduation first and then go into the fact that just because you have a god given talent that doesn’t mea n you should make millions more than others, and finally I will conclude that the college graduate that does make it in the professional sports world deserves money based on experience from College. Now then turning to my first point of being a college graduate. Kobe Bryant one of the NBA’s most prolific scorers and highest paid player never ever went to College. In fact Bryant, from near my hometown in Delaware County bypassed college and made the leap to the NBA. Should he be able to receive the amount of money that he does, and the average college student that graduates and has a degree is not able to obtain a job that pays that kind of base salary. I think not, in fact I feel that the only kind of people that have any business of making the kind of money athletes do are doctors, lawyers, stockbrokers and maybe anyone who actually does attend graduate school. Now those kind of professions have the right of making that type of income due to the fact that they not only have they graduated college but they attended graduate school and have perfected their business and received a degree. Kevin Garnett has the richest contract in all of NBA history, 6 years 126 million dollars and he never ever stepped a foot on one of our great campuses in the United States of America. Please tell me why should Garnett make this money if he never ever ... ...00 dollars. Would there be the same amount of competition and would the sport be as enjoyable for these athletes to play. Not to mention that by going to sporting events we are condoning the payment of these athletes. Now I am a HUGE sports fan as most of you might know. I also am in the sports broadcasting business and I have my own company covering Philadelphia sporting events. That means that I go to games on a press credential and do not line the pockets of the owners and thus the players with my hard earned money. In fact If I was not in the sports broadcasting business, the chance I would attend these games and pay these ludicrous prices that would ultimately lead to these preposterous salaries is highly unlikely. In closing, today I have shown how the amount of money athletes make is unethical to our society. I have given proper examples of criteria that is backed up by proof. I have stated my claim and my case for the subject and have given reasons why I believe athletes salaries are ridiculous. Children of ours should not grow up and think that all they have to do is drink milk to be like Mike or wear Kobe’s shoes to attain his success, rather they must earn it instead.

Order, Memory, and Anxiety in Borges Fiction :: Reading Memorize Memory Essays

Order, Memory, and Anxiety in Borges' Fiction The fundamental questions of how and why we read have an infinitude of answers, none of which entirely 'do the job', simply because they bear too closely upon the automatic, (and therefore, to us, secret) processes of the mind; the act of reading is too closely related to the act of living in the world for us to comprehend definitively. There are few writers who understand and exploit this primal link more persistently than Jorge Luis Borges. One of the ways in which he forces us to examine the parallels between reading and existing (I use the word 'force' because it is not always a pleasant confrontation) is through the thematic use of memory. I. Total Recall "It is because I forget that I read." -Roland Barthes, S/Z One of the most masterful treatments of the memory theme is in "Funes the Memorious", the brilliantly, (and somewhat absurdly), touching story of a man who cannot live under the strain of his natural and inescapable ability to remember everything perfectly. The story begins with the words "I recall", and immediately we are plunged into the realm of memory-we understand that what we are about to read is a semblance of a reminisence. Jon Stewart calls attention to the importance of the repetition of this verb in the opening paragraphs of the story: "The continual use of this verb clearly foreshadows the most important element of the character of Funes-his prodigious mnemonic powers: but there is more to it than this. Borges continually uses the same verb and with it brings together a number of scattered and seemingly chaotic memories that he has of Funes. The point of this repetition is to underscore his own impoverished memory of Funes." (p.74) But Stewart neglects to take this point to its logical and important conclusion; the narrator's 'impoverished memory' is not merely a foreshadowing of Funes' infinitely rich one-it comes to be, in fact, the necessary circumstance, and the subject of the story. Borges tells us that the story grew out of his own bouts of insomnia: "I remember that I used to lie down and try to forget everything, and that led me, inevitably, to remember everything. I imagined the books on the shelves, the clothes on the chair, and even my own body on the bed... and so, since I could not erase memory, I kept thinking of those things, and also thinking: if only I could forget, I would certainly be able to sleep.

Medical Mechanics of Ultrarunning :: Running Sports Essays

Medical Mechanics of Ultrarunning The medical aspects of ultramarathon running are a enormous part of what makes up the individual ultra runner. Many traumatic injuries can take place when a person gets involved in this specific sport. " It is impossible to overemphasize the importance of injury prevention and treatment to the career of a successful athlete. It has been noted that the champion athlete is very often one who has attained a high level of lay expertise and downright craftiness with regard to injuries, whereas novices seem to keep getting hurt. Very often the difference between the perennial champion and the perennial bridesmaid is just that edge: an ability to avoid and/or recover quickly from physical trauma."(Marty Liquiri) This quote made by Marty is stating the point that preventing injuries is a essential aspect that a runner has to consider. There are a limitless amount of injuries that a runner might have to deal with. Several precautions can be taken to make sure most of these injuries do not tak e place. Proper stretching is a very major part of preventing injuries concerning running. In order to run any distance your muscles as well as body have to be readily prepared. There are four stretching techniques that I have learned about. The first one is ballistic stretching. This stretch activates the stretch reflex, allowing the stretched muscle to contract quickly and the runner to bob up with a lot of speed. This stretch is not a popular one and is not very useful in ultra running. The second stretch is called the passive stretching. This stretch needs a partner to apply extra external pressure to elaborate the stretch. This stretch is safest when applied to more experienced athletes and is not advised for beginners just learning the whole stretching routine. The third way of stretching is referred to as contract-relax stretching. In this stretch the muscle is allowed to contract actively while being stretched and then stretched once more immediately after it relaxes. The fourth and f inal stretch is considered static stretching. This stretch is positioned and held for thirty to sixty seconds. There is a gradual build up of tension in the muscle being stretched so the stretch reflex isn't activated. As the tendons are slowly being stretched the inverse stretch reflex is being activated and the tension in the muscle lessons so the muscle can be stretched even further than before.

Religious Worldviews

Part One: Hindu Worldview (Pantheistic) 1. The Question of Origin – In a Hindu Worldview the question of origin would be pantheistic in nature. A Hindu would believe that they have always been in existence and everything is a part of god. God is seen as an impersonal force of nature and this force is in everything and surrounds everything. One can only escape this force through the process of reincarnation and to become one with everything. 2. The Question of Identity – In a Hindu Worldview life is seen as a sacred part of nature. Man’s soul is seen as eternal until he eventually reaches a state of Nirvana. At that time they will become one with Brahman. The goal is to do enough good deeds so that when you die you will return in a higher life form until you reach Nirvana. 3. The Question of Meaning/Purpose – In a Hindu Worldview life is to be viewed as an illusion as though one was living in a dream and life around them does not really exist. The goal is to understand this so that you may end the cycle of reincarnation and ascend to a state of Nirvana. 4. The Question of Morality – In a Hindu Worldview god is in everything and everything is in god. This belief will govern how man treats everything and everyone around them. It is ultimately one’s own decision to determine what is right and what is wrong. 5. The Question of Destiny – In a Hindu Worldview one would believe that one’s karma determines how you will return in the next life. If a person has good Karma they will reach a higher level upon rebirth. If one has bad Karma they will return to a lower level, or as an animal upon rebirth. The goal is to reach Nirvana. Part Two: Christian Worldview (Theistic) . The Question of Origin – A Christian believes that God exists and that God always has been and always will be. With this presupposition a Christian believes that he was created by God and that everything that exists was created by God. Whereas a Hindu believes that everything has always existed and is a part of god. 2. The Question of Identity – A Christian believes that because he was created by a Sovereign God he is a special creation of God. God created humans only lower than angels and in His image. God placed the responsibility of caring for His creation in the hands of humans. Hindus believe they are a part of everything in nature and the goal is to become one with Brahman. 3. The Question of Meaning/Purpose – A Christian believes that their purpose is to know God. A Christian is to have a meaningful relationship with the one true God. A Hindu believes that their purpose is to end the cycle of reincarnation and reach a state of Nirvana. 4. The Question of Morality – A Christian believes that the guide for moral living is the Bible. Right and wrong are based upon God’s holy standard and not on man’s own perspective. A Hindu believes that they govern what is right and wrong. 5. The Question of Destiny – A Christian believes that by accepting or not accepting Jesus Christ as their savor determines where one will spend life after death. By accepting Jesus Christ as ones savior they will spend eternity in Heaven where they will be in the presence of God forever. If one denies Jesus Christ they will spend eternity in hell forever separated from God. A Hindu believes in reincarnation and Karma. Good or bad karma will determine in what form they will return upon rebirth. The goal is to reach Nirvana.

Introduction to Oboe and Bassoon

An Introduction Oboe and Bassoon By Marie A Rogers 300005290 Woodwind Techniques 1 1010-1100 Mr. Robinson The oboe is a soprano-range double reed instrument with a length of 62cm. Its wooden tube is distinguished by a conical bore that expands into a flaring bell. The modern oboe’s range extends from the B flat below middle C (b3 flat) to about 3 octaves higher (A6). The oboe has a very narrow conical bore. It is played with a double reed consisting of two thin blades of cane tied together on a small metal tube called a staple, which is inserted into the reed socket at the top of the instrument.Traditionally made from African Blackwood, also called grenadilla, the instrument is made in 3 parts. The top joint has 10 or 11 holes, most of which are manipulated by the players left hand. The bottom joint also has 10 holes, which are predominately controlled by the right hand. The bell has 2 keys that are not used very much by the player. Oboe History The baroque oboe first appeared in the French court in the mid-17th century, where it was called â€Å"hautbois†. This name was also used for its predecessor, the shawm. The basic form of the hautbois was derived from the shawm.Major differences between the two instruments include division into 3 sections or joints, for the hautbois, and the elimination of the pirouette, a cup placed over the reed that enabled the shawm players to produce greater volume. The latter develop more than any other, was responsible for bringing the hautbois indoors where, thanks to its more refined sound and style of playing, it took up a permanent place in the orchestra. Classical period brought upon an oboe whose bore was gradually narrowed, and the instrument became outfitted with several keys, among them were those for the notes D#, F, and G#.A key similar to the modern octave key was also added called the â€Å"slur key†. It was used more like the â€Å"flick† keys on the modern German Bassoon. Only later did French instrument makers redesign the octave key to be used in the manner of the modern key i. e. held open or upper register, closed for lower. The narrower bore allowed the higher notes to be played easier, and composers began to utilize the upper register of the oboe in their works. Oboe Reeds Most professional oboists make their own reeds since every oboist needs a slightly different reed to suit his or her individual needs.By making their own reeds, oboists can precisely control factors such as tone color and intonation. Novice players often begin playing on â€Å"fibrecane reed† which is made of synthetic material. Fibrecane reeds are much easier for the novice to control and take a shorter amount of time to ‘break in†, and usually last longer. After learning on fibrecane reeds, which are available in several degrees of hardness, a medium reed usually being used. These reed, like Clarinet and Bassoon reeds are made of arundo donax. Different types of OboesTh e oboe has several family members. The most widely known today is the Cone Anglais or English Horn, the tenor (or alto) member of the family. A transposing instrument, it is pitched in F, a perfect 5th lower than the oboe. The Oboe d’ Amore the alto (or mezzo soprano) member of the family, is pitched in A, a minor 3rd lower than the Oboe. A less commonly played instrument is the Bass Oboe which is an octave lower than the oboe. Even less common is the Hecklephone, which has a wider bore and larger tone than the bass oboe. Only 165 hecklephones have ever been made.Its hard to find competent players because of the rarity of the instrument. The least common is the mussette or (piccolo oboe), the sopranino member of the family (usually pitched in Eflat or F above the oboe), and the Contrabass Oboe ( typically pitched in C, 2 octaves deeper than the standard oboe). The Bassoon Bassoon is a member of the double-reed family, and generally plays in the bass and tenor registers. The b assoon plays most commonly in concert bands, orchestras and chamber ensembles. It is a non transposing instrument.The bassoon is generally made of maple, with medium hard types of wood, such as sycamore, maple and sugar maple preferred. Less expensive models are also made of materials such as polypropylene and ebonite, primarily for student and outdoor use. The bassoon is 4. 4 feet long. The bore of the bassoon is conical, and the two parallel bores of the boot joint are connected at the bottom of the instrument with a U- shaped metal connector. Both bore and tone holes are precision machined, and each instrument is finished by hand for proper tuning.The bocal connects the reed to the rest of the instrument and is inserted into a socket at the top of the wing joint. The range of the bassoon begins at bflat 1 and extends upward over 3 octaves. Bassoon history Earlier bassoons were called â€Å"Dulcian†. They two instruments are quite similar; they both have a double reed fitte d into a metal crook, obliquely drilled tone holes, and a conical bore that doubles back on itself. The origins of the dulcian are not clear, but by the mid 16th century it was available in 8 different sizes from soprano to great bass.Its primary function seems to have been to provide the bass in a typical wind band of the time. Early â€Å"dulcian† technique was rather primitive, with 8 finger holes and generally one key, indicating that it could only play in a few keys. The Baroque period was when the bassoon became very similar to what it is today. The man most likely responsible for developing the true Bassoon was Martin Hottorre. He was responsible for breaking the instrument down the one-piece dulcian into 4 sections (bell, bass joint, boot and wing joint).The modern Bassoon exists in two distinct primary forms the Buffett system and the Heckle system. Most of the world plays the Heckle system, while the Buffett system is primarily in France, Belgium, and parts of Latin America. Bassoon techniques The Bassoon is held diagonally in front of the player, but unlike the flute, oboe, and clarinet, it cannot be supported by the players hands alone. Some means of additional support is required; the most common ones used are a neck strap or shoulder harness attached to the top of the boot joint, a seat trap attached to the base of the boot joint which is laid across the chair seat prior to sitting down. To stabilize the right hand, many Bassoonists use an adjustable common shaped apparatus called a â€Å"crutch†, which mounts to the boot joint. An aspect of Bassoon playing technique called flicking involves the momentary pressing or â€Å"flicking† of the high A, C, and D keys by the left hand thumb at the beginning of certain note in the middle octave in order to eliminate the cracking or brief microphonic that happens without the use of the key.Bassoon Reeds Bassoon reeds, made of Arundo donax cane, are often made by the players themselves , although beginner bassoonists tend to buy their reeds from professional reed makers or use reeds made by their teachers. Reeds begin with a length of tube cane that is split into three or four pieces. The cane is then trimmed and gouged to the desired thickness, leaving the bark attached. After soaking, the gouged cane is cut to the proper shape and milled to the desired thickness, or profile, by removing material from the bark side.This can be done by hand with a file; more frequently it is done with a machine or tool designed for the purpose. After the profiled cane has soaked once again it is folded over in the middle. Prior to soaking, the reed maker will have lightly scored the bark with parallel lines with a knife; this ensures that the cane will assume a cylindrical shape during the forming stage. On the bark portion, the reed maker binds on three coils or loops of brass wire to aid in the final forming process. The exact placement of these loops can vary somewhat depending on the reed maker.The bound reed blank is then wrapped with thick cotton or linen thread to protect it, and a conical steel mandrel (which sometimes has been heated in a flame) is quickly inserted in between the blades. Using a special pair of pliers, the reed maker presses down the cane, making it conform to the shape of the mandrel. (The steam generated by the heated mandrel causes the cane to permanently assume the shape of the mandrel. ) The upper portion of the cavity thus created is called the â€Å"throat†, and its shape has an influence on the final playing characteristics of the reed.The lower, mostly cylindrical portion will be reamed out with a special tool, allowing the reed to fit on the bocal. After the reed has dried, the wires are tightened around the reed, which has shrunk after drying. The lower part is sealed (a nitrocellulose-based cement such as Duco may be used) and then wrapped with thread to ensure both that no air leaks out through the bottom of the reed and that the reed maintains its shape. The wrapping itself is often sealed with Duco or clear nail varnish (polish).The bulge in the wrapping is sometimes referred to as the â€Å"Turk's head†Ã¢â‚¬â€it serves as a convenient handle when inserting the reed on the bocal. To finish the reed, the end of the reed blank, originally at the center of the unfolded piece of cane, is cut off, creating an opening. The blades above the first wire are now roughly 27–30 mm (1. 1–1. 2 in) long. In order for the reed to play, a slight bevel must be created at the tip with a knife, although there is also a machine that can perform this function. Other adjustments with the knife may be necessary, depending on the hardness and profile of the cane and the requirements of the player.The reed opening may also need to be adjusted by squeezing either the first or second wire with the pliers. Additional material may be removed from the sides (the â€Å"channels†) or tip to b alance the reed. Additionally, if the â€Å"e† in the staff is sagging in pitch, it may be necessary to â€Å"clip† the reed by removing 1–2 mm (0. 039–0. 079 in) from its length. Playing styles of individual bassoonists vary greatly; because of this, most advanced players will make their own reeds, in the process customizing them to their individual playing requirements.

Immanuel Kant †Ethics Essay

Immanuel Kant was born in Konigsberg, East Prussia in 1724. He attended the Collegium Fridiricianum at eight years old where he was taught classicism. Then he went to the University of Konigsberg where he spent his career focusing on philosophy, mathematics, and physics. When his is father past away, Kant left the university and earned his living as a private tutor. In 1755 he returned to the University to receive his doctorate in 1756. Immanuel Kant remained at the University teaching for 15 years. He received his tenure at the University in 1770, where he stayed for the next 27 years. In 1792 he was barred from teaching or writing on religious subjects do to his unorthodox approach in his teaching by King Fredrick William II. He returned to teaching after the king had passed away five years later. In his retirement he published a summary of his views on religion. Immanuel Kant passed away in 1804. Immanuel Kant was widely known for his categorical imperative theory. Categorical imperative is how one determines one’s duty, what principles are proper, and which are not. Doing one’s duty for the sake of duty itself is better than simply acting in agreement with one’s duty. Telling the truth in order to benefit yourself is acting in accordance with duty and not acting for the sake of duty. The categorical imperative states, â€Å"Act only on that maxim whereby thou canst at the same time will it should become universal law(Keele, 2008). † Maxim in this sentence is the moral part of your action. Categorical imperative tells us it is immoral to make an exception of our self. Just like my mother would say treat and act as you would want others to treat and act towards you. In the news I view an article about â€Å"School knife attack poses ethical dilemma for daily. † In this article they talk about the Worcester New identifying a schoolboy as a suspect. The news published the boy’s name and picture on Facebook putting the boy’s life at risk. After the boy was found the news took down the boy’s picture at once. Everyone was perplexed by this situation asking why they put picture up and then took it down. According to the Worcester News, the situation change, where they were trying to find the boy to stop him from hurting himself or others and then to protecting the child. Would the newspapers actions have been ethical according to Immanuel Kant’s Categorical Imperative? First let’s take a look at the reasons why they did it. The newspaper stated they put his picture up to protect him and other, then took down to protect him. I believe they were acting in the best of society myself by putting the information up. According to Immanuel Kant’s theory they were acting in accordance with their duty. They had a duty to let the public know what was going on to protect other students and teachers If they didn’t act with such speed would the boy have been found so soon? I think not! This boy could have went on a killing spree and if the Worcester News didn’t report it they would not have been acting in the best of society and would not have been doing their duty. But then to take down the information I feel is unethical. They don’t take down any information when it comes to any other person involved in a crime. Immanuel Kant stated that it is immoral to make an exception of yourself. The Worcester News should hold to the same standards as any other crime they report. I understand that they are trying to protect the boy, but if you are going to report any other crime and not take it down this should happen in the same way. In conclusion, based on my research I feel that Immanuel Kant’s Categorical Imperative theory is important to our society today. It holds everyone to the same standards! He has help to maintain a set of standards for our society that requires everyone to be treated the same. The study of ethics is important in today’s business and government world because it sets standard for all to abide. From John Locke’s right theory to Kohlberg’s moral development stages. They all 1 / 2 set standards in which business need to stay within. If there were no standards there would be more scandals in the news than there is. References Britannica. (2014). Immanuel Kant. Retrieved from http://www. philosophypages. com/ph/kant. htm. Keele, Lisa. (2008, The Categorical Imperative of Immanuel Kant. Retrieved from https://www. suite. io/lisa-keele/ypd2fk. Linfold, Paul. (2014, September 28). School Knife Attack Poses Ethical Dilemma For Daily. Retrieved from http://www. holdthefrontpage. co. uk/2014/news/school-knife-attack-poses-ethical- dilemma-for-daily/ POWERED BY TCPDF (WWW. TCPDF. ORG).

Childhood Memory

I am an international college student from Vietnam, and have been through twelve grades with lots of memories. One thing I could say is the interval time between my sixth and eighth grade was the time that I cherish the most. It is not only because it was my most successful time with a bunch of fabulous achievements I obtained, but also because literally it was my great pleasure to be instructed by a very thoughtful teacher. She was my Mathematics teacher, and her name is Mrs. Nguyen. I did enjoy most of her lectures in class. Thanks to being taught by a great teacher, Mathematics gradually became my most favorite subject. At that time, Vietnamese teachers received just a small amount of salary every month due to the government did not have much money. They could have a good life if they live alone, and only spend money for their own. However, if they have a family, their husband or wife needs to have much better income to run the house and nurture their children. My teacher and her husband both do educational job. As a result, they do not have good income enough to run their house and to pay tuitions for their kids. Therefore, those who had the same situation like this usually opened extra classes at their home for a little income. The government prohibited teachers to give extra lectures at their home because they worried that if teachers give lectures at home, students would get bored of listening lectures in class. Childhood Memory As a child everything was so much more simple. Day after day I only had one objective on my mind, and that was to go outside and have as much fun as I possibly could before the sun went down and it became dark, that was when I had to be home. My cousins lived right next to me so i can always remember going outside and swimming in our swimming pool, and then we would go over to our grandmothers house for lunch, she lived on the other side of my house right next door, I will never forget going over their amd smelling the freshly baked cookies she always made us.There are alot of things i can remember from my childhood but everytime I think back this one seems to always stand out the most. I will never forget the early morning that my dad woke me up on my birthday. He woke me up and told me to get ready because we had to go. I remember asking him over and over again why I was up so early, and where in the world do we have to go its my birthday what about when all my friends come over. H e told me to not worry because he had a special suprise for me, I was so excited but I couldn't think of what the suprise could be.Driving in the car felt like it was taking forever, I was so tired i fell back asleep in the back seat. Once we got there my dad woke me up again but this time when i opened my eyes i saw my cousin michael and my uncle donny standing right next to my dad. I remember asking what is going on and thats when my dad showed my the fourwheeler he bought me. I couldn't have been any happier at that moment I was jumping up and down overwhelmed with joy. e put the fourwheeler on my uncles trailer but there was already one on it, thats when my cousin michael told me that his dad got him one too. I was so happy because we did everything together, nobody could sperate us. I couldn't thank my father enough on the way home, a fourwheeler was my dream I always wanted to have one they looked like so much fun all of the my older friends and cousins had one not to mention all the video games that I played with them. I couldn't believe that I finally had one now all I needed to do was learn how to ride it.This was one of my biggest challenges because nobody ever showed me how. When we finally got home my dad and my uncle took both fourwheelers off of the trailer and my dad showed me what to do how to use the gas, turn and how to stop with the brake. He turned the fourwheeler on for me and I sped away having no clue what I was doing, my cousin followed right behind me but he already knew how to ride because his brother had a fourwheeler and he taught him what to do. We rode all the way to the fields in my backyard behind the apple orchard.Right before the field there's a hill that has a deer feeder on it close to the woods my dad hunts in, i decided to try and drive up the hill I guess i wasn't ready to do something that experianced because when I got halfway up the hill I stalled the fourwheeler and hit the back brake and the fourwheeler flipped over and I fell off rolling down the hill the fourwheeler landed on my hand. My dad came running down to me and picked me up because I was screaming thinking my hand was broken, I always over exaggerated everything when I was younger.I went up to the house and put ice on my hand because it was really swollen. That ended my day because when my mom came home she was so worried she didn't want to ride my fourwheeler anymore because she thought it was too dangerous. I tried to tell her that it was an accident and I just did something I shouldn't have tried yet. She told me I could ride it again if i waited for my hand to heal, but of course I didn't listen to anything my parents told me because I was a wild child.So the very next day I was back out riding again with my cousin but this time we took it a little bit easier and went slow and I wouldn't dare attempt the hill again. My mom was ferious when she found out that I was riding when I wasn't suppose to be. I was bound and determined to b e the better than my cousin someday but I doubted it because he was two years older than me and he was always bigger than me so he had an advantage because we had the same fourwhellers and i was a little bit to small for it.Everyday we would wake up at the same time around eight in the morning and we both would meet at my barn where we kept the fourwheelers and we would go up to the house and fill up our tanks with gas and go ride in the fields behind my house and across the street. we would come home at dinner time so filthy, we would be covered in mud from head to toe but we didn't care at all because we were kids just having the best time of our lives. Now that I reflect upon my childhood I realize that I do not regret any choices that I made because that's what made me happy.I had alot of fun as a child and I miss every second of it, I didn't have a worry in the world. Now that I am getting older and about to graduate from high school I know that those days are over. At this poi nt in my life I need to get down and stay focused and determined to live a successful life, I feel that if I put my mind to it I will be able to do it. Just like how determined I was to be better than my cousin everyday I practiced, and I soon became much better doing things that he still to this day can not do. My childhood was perfect and I wouldn't change anything about it, these memories will live on forever with me.

Working thesis statement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Working thesis statement - Essay Example In my earlier papers; one on Definition Essay which discussed fashion's negative impact on societies throughout history, and The Midterm Essay, wherein I discussed how the health and beauty industries have all along encouraged us to think of our bodies in terms of machines, I had maintained that health could not be compromised for the sake of appearance. To prove this, I quoted the names of Luisel Ramos and Ana Carolina Reston, who, seeking stardom and money, paid the supreme prize for their body abuse. Sad, but true, this is the life of models, who walk the ramps to the appeasement of a handful. In order to substantiate my argument that the two industries (Health and Beauty) in discussion have all along been more inclined to improve their personal interests, this research will take a look at what happens behind the scene. Fashion and beauty are but short-lived, life is not. Being identical to a Jane Fonda or an Arnold Schwarzenegger does not guarantee stardom or success. Every indiv idual on his or her own terms is as attractive as any other. It's all in the mind. Models have for long caught our attention as being pretty and sexy. The notion that men prefer women with a model's body is all wrong. Does this mean that women who are healthy are less attractive or pretty Definitely not! In fact, men prefer women with more flesh.

Speech to an existing presentation etc. - Control System Design Term Paper

Speech to an existing presentation etc. - Control System Design Knowledge requested - Term Paper Example It also helps the planes to stick to their routes during a flight process. I have observed this as a very helpful project that can reduce many problems in the transport sector, most importantly air transport. I would like to get your support in this project. At this juncture, let me introduce the project and give you its status together with the problems that I have experienced in carrying out the project. In the due course of my presentation, I will also show you the solutions that I took to solve the problems that I came across. Finally, I will give you the opportunity to listen to decisions that I took as remedies to the experiences, which I had. The system comprises of three parts; flight monitoring unit, which is our own unit, safety unit together with radar and defense system. The systems work hand in hand with each other smoothly to reduce any risks that can arise at any stage of the flight process. The flight-monitoring unit is divided into four partners but since we are the system OEM we are responsible for the completely functioning processes of the unit. The partners that we indentified to help us manage the system are Laissez Fair with twelve percent, Bankarottair who is holding nineteen percent and Rashid Air System has a share of twenty-three percent. We are yet to identify any partner who will be in charge of parachute control. Project process At this point comrades, let me make it more realistic and simple for you to understand the process through the diagrams. At the start, we start with designing the code. After designing the code, we deliver it to Rashid air who accepts the software test. Bankarottair does software integration after Rashid air has completed the software acceptance testing. The software comes back to us to test the integration and then, take to Laissez fair to find if the software has any problem. If there is any problem, then they fix it before moving to the final stage of verification and start releasing with the authorities . Project Plan and Status The period set to complete this program is short. The deadline is 30th January next year. Looking at the schedule, there is a lot of work that need to be done in this very short period. As you can see, we completed the first step at a hundred percent and took to Rashid air to do the software accepting some few weeks ago. They had completed up to eighty percent when we received their message that the system is experiencing some failure. Therefore, the other processes have not yet started. Basing on this it is most determinable that if remedies are not put in place at the correct time, we shall be late for a long period. The remaining processes are important and they may require enough time to deal with them. There are five general processes so far we have managed to complete only one. The second one is almost to the end although it has some challenges that require special attention. Problems Our colleagues from India report that they are experiencing great p roblems. They say that it will be necessary to shut down the system then restart it after sometime. This will cause a delay of several days that we did not expect. According to their report, it may take five or eight days to fix the problem. This will attract a penalty of $50,000. This means that for eight days, we will have to pay about four hundred thousand US dollars. The reason is that we have to replace a rig module. This could take around five days to replace then

APPIAN WAY Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

APPIAN WAY - Research Paper Example The remaining sections were constructed in the course of next few centuries, with the road spanning about 563kms and thereby connecting Rome to Brindisi in southeast Italy. When the road construction process was started, it was mainly leveling the dirt road. After leveling, large stones as well as mortar were laid, which is followed by the laying of gravel. When the basic structure of the road was formed, it was topped with small stones which fitted into the gaps, thereby forming a flat surface. The small stones fitted into the gaps so aptly that historians marveled at how the small stones seem to have â€Å"grown† along with the other components. For instance, historian Procopius said that small stores â€Å"did not look so much fitted together but as grown together†, so much so they led to the formation of a road surface which was smooth, and far better than the jagged irregular roads before. (Kaster, 2012, p. 23). On the whole, the initial construction process of using large stones as the base, and then fitting in with softer gravel as well as small stones gave a proper and also functional look to the road. â€Å"Large stones made up the bulk of its construction and softer gravel that was compacted between the rocks cemented it.† (Appian Way, Rome,† n. d). Then, when the construction began on the stretch between Rome and Lake Albano, the Romans started using lime cement to build better quality roads. Sourced from volcanic rocks, this lime cement was laid over the small stones thereby providing a far smoother road surface. In addition, the Romans crowned the middle portion of the road for the purpose of water runoff, and also built ditches on either side of the road which were protected by retaining walls. It was while extending the road through the Pontine Marshes; the Romans faced number of challenges. Their plan to dry the marshes, build bridges over it and so on did not gave expected results, forcing the Romans to build

Students with mental illness and depression Essay

Students with mental illness and depression - Essay Example Anxiety and depression disorders are common mental illnesses known to exist. Mental illnesses occur mostly in the times of uncertainty or stress which can be resulting from people’s daily life activities. It is worth to understand that mental illnesses and disorders are real illnesses. Just like other illnesses, such as asthma or diabetes, most mental disorders or illnesses are episodic. (U.S. Department of Education). That means there are periods when people will be well and productive, as well as other times being unwell and their overall production and functioning, becomes low. Depression is just a mental disorder, but not a disease. Psychiatrists have tried to help people who seek medication for conditions of mental disorders such as depression, but they have failed to explain the meaning of disorder or depression. These conditions are called disorders but not diseases with a reason. Disorder means something out of ordinary, where depression and other known mental illnesse s belong. According to a report in 2001, the US Department of Education reported that the rate of school dropouts among the students with mental illness is approximately fifty percent (U.S. Department of Education). The above disorder is characterized by the lack of ability to remain focused on a task, excessive activity, and impulsive behavior or inability to remain for a some moments. That means there are periods when people will be well and productive, as well as other times being unwell and their overall.

Does Hand Hygiene Hompliance Increase among Staff Members Aware of a Essay

Does Hand Hygiene Hompliance Increase among Staff Members Aware of a Population of Immuno-Compromised Patients - Essay Example This Challenge is an international reality: no clinic, no hospital, no health-care system, no health post and no dispensary can presently say that compliance with hand hygiene suggestions is not an issue. â€Å"WHO Guidelines for Hand Hygiene in Health Care prepared with the help of more than 100 international experts, are in the testing and implementation phases in different parts of the world. Pilot sites range from modern, high-technology hospitals in developed countries to remote dispensaries in resource-poor villages† (World Alliance for Patient Safety: Who Guidelines on Hand Hygiene in Health Care (Advanced Draft); A Summary 2005, p. 5). In October 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the campaign for hand hygiene importance worldwide, with the theme â€Å"Clean Care Is Safer Care† (Patient Safety 2012) as part of the Hand Hygiene Health Care draft. This program has already caused many people and organizations to participate, the Ministries of Health from 124 countries agreed to collaborate to lower infection due to poor hand hygiene and support the efforts of WHO. (Allegranzi et al. 2009). Most pathogens transmitted by the hands of health care workers. (Doebbling et al. 1992). All patients on the department develop a side effect of they’re treatment called neutropenic sepsis. Neutropenic sepsis is defined as drop in the white blood cell count, which are the bodies major defense against infections. As some research has found that as little as 47% compliance of hand hygiene in health care workers (Randle et al. 2010). Identification of Research Question/Objectives/Problem/Hypothesis: The research question to be focused on this paper is: â€Å"Does hand hygiene compliance increase among staff members aware of a population of immunocompromised patients’’? Selection and Rationale for the Research Methodology: There are Two Methods of Research: By definition quantitative research deals with quantities and relat ionships   between attributes; it involves the collection and analysis of highly structured data in the positivist tradition (Bowling 2002). Whereas qualitative research can be described as a study of people in there natural social settings and to collect naturally occurring data (Bowling 2002).  Ã‚   Design Method Used: The researcher proposes to utilize the method of quasi experimental design , the method is, nevertheless, a very useful method for measuring social  variables. (Parahoo 2006). The inherent weaknesses in the methodology do not undermine the  validity  of the data, as long as they are recognized and allowed for during the whole  experimental process. Firm statistical analysis can be very difficult due to the lack of proper controls (Polit and Beck 2008). Quasi-experimental design includes choosing groups, upon which a variable is tested, with no any random pre-selection procedures. â€Å"For example, to perform an educational experiment, a class might be arbitrarily divided by alphabetical selection or by seating arrangement. The division is often convenient and, especially in an educational situation, causes as little disruption as possible† (Quasi-Experimental Design 2008). Differences of Quasi Experiment and a True Experiment:

Topics Discussed in Class - My Participation in Class Assignment - 3

Topics Discussed in Class - My Participation in Class - Assignment Example In their view, physical forces, such as technological restraints may make it demanding or even not possible to develop a significant international market. For instance, a number of developing nations contain such primitive storage and transportation systems that make global distributions inadequate or at times, impossible. The presenters made this claims when they were explaining the scenario using food as an example. This is because food is frequently damaged by the time it reaches the destination of business in particular nations (Jensen & Hansen 2006, p. 443). In addition, according to them, this fact can be compounded with lack of adequate sewer systems and unclean water. I made a contribution to this topic by asserting that exporters in the United States should be informed that particular technological disparities have an impact on the nature of exportable products. For instance, internet and computer utilization in a number of developing nations may be nonexistent or extremely thin. ... In addition, the physical global marketing environment has an impact on the economic and political activities, models cultural components, for example, religion and language, and determines transportation, usage of land, and commercial flows. Domestic Consumer Predispositions: Ethnocentrism and Disidentification The presenters argued that clients’ local bias is a significant determinant of behaviour of domestic product purchase. In their view, consumer ethnocentrism explains customers’ leaning to prefer local commodities and stay away from foreign commodities. They also argued that marketing managers and researchers examine degrees of consumer ethnocentrism to determine the degree of local biases in the business environment. They also argued that consumer disidentification has a tremendous effect on purchasing choices beyond and above the effect of consumer ethnocentrism. In my argument, I highlighted that components, for example, ethnic identification and acculturation are significant indicators of both consumer disidentification and consumer ethnocentrism. In addition, I explained that businesses could evaluate the degree of consumer disidentification as part of their continuous tracking studies to determine the degree of consumer disidentification in their local market to attain specified insights into regional disparities in consumer disidentification levels. Such details could be employed to signify whether the national origin of the commodity should be marketed in the respective areas (Shankarmahesh 2006, p. 153). The external resource emphasizes that consumer disidentification may be traced by domestic organizations that attempt to understand consumer disidentification and want to safeguard their markets against escalating global competition. Also,

Teachers Attitudes towards Autistic Children Research Paper

Teachers Attitudes towards Autistic Children - Research Paper Example By doing this a pattern of behavior forms where the student either answered very quickly without thinking or doesn't even try. With autistic children, this can be absolutely critical. Autistic children are generally found to be at least average intelligence, possibly above-average. However, IQ tests simply do not work with these kinds of students, due to the requirement of quick response. When not even sure that you autistic children see the world in the same way. In fact, we know so very little about this condition that any kind of properly done and reported research will be valuable. The nature of the disorder, mainstreaming is very important, because one of the areas in which the student desperately needs to improve his social communication. In special classes, where the students suffer from this disorder, there is a double deficit in communication among students. However, by mainstreaming autistic students in a regular classroom, perhaps with the helper, the autistic student is p rovided the opportunity to communicate with other students lacking this disability. With the proper training of the teacher and the coaching of the other students, the benefits can be reciprocal. You autistic student is provided with an environment where responses can be immediately acknowledged, and the regular students are provided with an opportunity to understand this disability and learn that an autistic student is otherwise quite a normal person. One component of any research project would be the literature review. A review of the literature can give the researcher an idea of what questions have been researched and the methodology used. Furthermore, in well-done research reports, the questions themselves are generally represented. Once the literature review is completed and the results analyzed, then conclusions can be made about the suitability of the research. In order for the research to be valuable, it must investigate an area which has not been well researched or answer a question which has not been asked and answered, or use the methodology that will result in different kinds of data. In researching the above question in a literature review, a great deal was found referring to autism, nearly 25,000 responses in EBSCO database alone. The focus was narrowed to documents from the year 2006 to the present. This reduced to do just over 14,000 results. By adding the word "mainstreaming" results were cut to a manageable eighty. Fourteen of these results were found to be relevant with six dealing with attitudes and perceptions of teachers, and the balance dealing with methods of teaching. From these results, it was clear that this question has not been well investigated. Those results which dealt directly with teachers attitudes did not give much information. Therefore, it was decided from the literature review that this was a good question to investigate. Primary Research Of the various methods available to cover this research, the choice must be made amo ng quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research. Due to the nature of the question is probable that strictly quantitative will not give much useful information because it deals with attitudes. Therefore, one must choose between qualitative and mixed methods. One extremely useful qualitative method is direct observation.