Culture - Definition, Discussion and Examples

Culture is a term that refers to a large and diverse set of mostly intangible aspects of social life. According to sociologists, culture consists of the values, beliefs, systems of language, communication, and practices that people share in common and that can be used to define them as a collective. Culture also includes the material objects that are common to that group or society. Culture is distinct from social structure and economic aspects of society, but it is connected to them — both continuously informing them and being informed by them. How Sociologists  Define Culture Culture is one of the most important concepts within sociology because sociologists recognize that it plays a crucial role in our social lives. It is important for shaping social relationships, maintaining and challenging social order, determining how we make sense of the world and our place in it, and in shaping our everyday actions and experiences in society. It is composed of both non-material and material things. In brief, sociologists define the non-material aspects of culture as the values and beliefs, language, communication, and practices that are shared in common by a group of people. Expanding on these categories, culture is made up of our knowledge, common sense, assumptions, and expectations. It is also the rules, norms, laws, and morals that govern society; the words we use as well as how we speak and write them (what sociologists call discourse); and the symbols we use to express meaning, ideas, and concepts (like traffic signs and emojis, for example). Culture is also what we do and how we behave and perform (for example, theater and dance). It informs and is encapsulated in how we walk, sit, carry our bodies, and interact with others; how we behave depending on the place, time, and audience; and how we express identities of race, class, gender, and sexuality, among others. Culture also includes the collective practices we participate in, such as religious ceremonies, the celebrati on of secular holidays, and attending sporting events. Material culture is composed of the things that humans make and use. This aspect of culture includes a wide variety of things, from buildings, technological gadgets, and clothing, to film, music, literature, and art, among others. Aspects of material culture are more commonly referred to as cultural products. Sociologists see the two sides of culture — the material and non-material — as intimately connected. Material culture emerges from and is shaped by the non-material aspects of culture. In other words, what we value, believe, and know (and what we do together in everyday life) influences the things that we make. But it is not a one-way relationship between material and non-material culture. Material culture can also influence the non-material aspects of culture. For example, a powerful documentary film (an aspect of material culture) might change people’s attitudes and beliefs (i.e. non-material culture). This is why cultural products tend to follow patterns. What has come before in terms of music, film, television, and art, for example, influences the values, beliefs, and expectations of those who interact with them, which then, in turn, influence the creation of additional cultural products. Why Culture Matters to Sociologists Culture is important to sociologists because it plays a significant and important role in the production of social order. The social order refers to the stability of society based on the collective agreement to rules and norms that allow us to cooperate, function as a society, and live together (ideally) in peace and harmony. For sociologists, there are both good and bad aspects of social order. Rooted in the theory of classical French sociologist Émile Durkheim, both material and non-material aspects of culture are valuable in that they hold society together. The values, beliefs, morals, communication, and practices that we share in common provide us with a shared sense of purpose and a valuable collective identity. Durkheim revealed through his research that when people come together to participate in rituals, they reaffirm the culture they hold in common, and in doing so, strengthen the social ties that bind them together. Today, sociologists see this important social phenomenon happening not only in religious rituals and celebrations like (some) weddings and the Indian festival of Holi but also in secular ones — such as high school dances and widely-attended, televised sporting events (for example, the Super Bowl and March Madness). Famous Prussian social theorist and activist Karl Marx established the critical approach to culture in the social sciences. According to Marx, it is in the realm of non-material culture that a minority is able to maintain unjust power over the majority. He reasoned that subscribing to mainstream values, norms, and beliefs keep people invested in unequal social systems that do not work in their best interests, but rather, benefit the powerful minority. Sociologists today see Marxs theory in action in the way that most people in capitalist societies buy into the belief that success comes from hard work and dedication, and that anyone can live a good life if they do these things — despite the reality that a job which pays a living wage is increasingly hard to come by. Both theorists were right about the role that culture plays in society, but neither was  exclusively  right. Culture can be a force for oppression and domination, but it can also be a force for creativity, resistance, and liberation. It is also a deeply important aspect of human social life and social organization. Without it, we would not have relationships or society.

Sarah Osborn And The Bullets Would Not Cheat The Gallows

Who is Sarah Osborn and why is she important? This primary source analysis will provide information about Osborn and what she did in order for us to briefly answer these two important questions. This primary source is referenced as Sarah Osborn, â€Å"The bullets would not cheat the gallows†¦Ã¢â‚¬  This is Sarah Osborn’s deposition before the Court of Common Pleas in Wayne County, New Jersey, in 1837 but was excerpted from The Revolution Remembered: Eyewitness Accounts of the American Revolution, ed. John C. Dann in 1980. Prior to this class and primary source I never even heard of Sarah Osborn, but after reading this deposition I obtained an understanding of who she was. This deposition was originally intended for the court, as it was Osborn’s testimony of her and her husband’s experiences in the Revolutionary war in order to claim their veteran pensions. However, John C. Dann decided to excerpt this deposition for the general public specifically focusing on historians and women for the purpose of explaining women’s unaccredited participation in the Revolutionary war, using Sarah Osborn’s personal testimony as a prime example. Sarah Osborn decided to testify before the Court of Common Pleas in New Jersey in 1837 because Congress had made it possible for Revolutionary war veterans to claim their pensions and she felt she was obligated to receive her pension for her actions during the war. In her deposition, Osborn explains all the dangerous duties she performed on the battlefield whenShow MoreRelatedA Woman’s Retrospective of the American Revolution Essay2537 Words   |  11 PagesSarah Benjamin went before the deposition on the twentieth day of November, 1837 in the Court of Common Pleas of Wayne County, Pennsylvania. This deposition intended to validate claims for receiving pension benefits owed to Mrs. Benjamin from a previous marriage; an Aaron Osborn, veteran of the Revolutionary War. Her case founded itself on the numerous acts of Congress over the previous decade--in particular the Comprehensive Pension Act of 1832 and subsequent acts of Congress from July 4, 1836

Employee Development in the Interior Ministry in Jordan †Free Samples

Question: Discuss about the Employee Development in the Interior Ministry in Jordan. Answer: Project Background Employees are regarded as the most important asset for an organisation. The ultimate success of any organisation is dependent on the quality of its workforce and the efficiency with which they perform. The employee development refers to those activities that are aimed at improving the skills and competencies of employees working in the organisation and provide them with the opportunities for their growth and development. It is necessary for the managers to acknowledge and respect the efforts made by the employees in order to motivate them and develop a sense of belongingness among them towards the company. For the efforts made by the employees, they usually expect something in return, money is one such motivating factor (Kraiger et al., 2014). However, not all employees are motivated just by the money factor, certain employees need the opportunities where they can develop their talent, skills, and competencies to face the future work challenges. Employee development activities are important in an organisation. It allows the employees with the facilities to enhance their existing knowledge and skills to work better at their job profiles and, which in turn helps in increasing the overall organisational productivity. The company employs the development activities to make the employees aware of the developments and changes in the organisations and prepare them for the adverse and unforeseen conditions that they may face while performing their jobs. The development activities offered by the companies not only help the employees with their professional growth but also with their personal growth. These activities enable the employees to attach themselves positively with the working of a company (Wilson, 2005). They become aware of the fact that the success and progress of organisation will actually be a success of their own. In this context, the proposed research study seeks to examine and study the significance of employee development in an organisation. It aims at exploring various methods that are used by the organisations as a part of the employee development activities and seeks to analyse its impact on the performance of the employees. The study will be conducted with specific reference to the Interior Ministry in Jordan. On the examination of literature, it is evident that training and development are emerging as a significant tool that can influence the satisfaction and performance level of employees. If the employees are provided with enough opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills base, they are likely to be satisfied with their jobs and tend to perform better (Lee and Bruvold, 2003). In this respect, this research study will serve to be significant in examining the impact of employee development on the performance of employees with specific reference to Interior Ministry in Jordan. It will provide a strategic guidance to not only the Ministry but also other organisations as to which methods can be adopted by them for employee development and the manner in which the performance of employees can be influenced. This research study will also serve as a foundation for the future researchers who seek to explore the field of employee training and development. Literature Review According to Harrison (2012), employee development may be defined as a joint initiative taken by the employers and employees to enhance the knowledge and skills of an employee. It is a source for the employers to nurture and develop an employee to make him a reliable resource for the organisation and eventually add up to the better performance of the overall enterprise (Harrison, 2012). It is primarily initiated to keep the employees motivated and aware of the recent developments in the industry. In the perception of Khan, Khan and Khan (2011), employee development plays an important role in an organisation. Training and development activities initiated in an organisation is likely to make the processes and the employees efficient, as it reduces the mistakes that are committed by the employees while performing their tasks. This reduction in the errors lowers down the cost of production and enables economic use of the resources and waste minimisation. In addition to this, it provides a boost to the morale of the employees and reduces absenteeism. The literature provides that when employees are provided with ample opportunities for their growth, they develop loyalty towards the organisation and starts enjoying their job, which reduces the absenteeism and turnover in the organisation (Khan, Khan and Khan, 2011). It also helps in change management as more and more of employees are involved in the change process and are provided with the facilities to adjust their skills and competencies as required by the changes. In support of the above arguments, Salah (2016) added to the context stating that in the Jordanian private transport companies, there is a positive relationship between the employee performance and the training and development practices. The literature indicates that the major impact of the employee development practices is not only on the performance of employees but also to the overall organisation. These activities are aimed at improving the existing knowledge in the employees and teaching them new skills which are required to perform the job roles. Learning these new skills helps in eliminating the human errors, contributes to the personal and professional development of employees which in turn keep them motivated. This eventually helps the employees in performing better and increasing the organisational productivity and effectiveness (Salah, 2016). In the context of the methods that are used by the organisations for the development of employees Richenhagen (2013) stated that there are different methods available for the development. It is not necessary that a method which is successful in one organisation serves the same purpose in the other organisation. However, most commonly used methods for employee development includes job rotation, on the job training methods, performance appraisals, allowing employees to work in teams, conferences and seminars, and off-job training methods. It is essential for the human resource managers to carefully plan the development programs depending on the nature of the job, employees capabilities, and skills set (Richenhagen, 2013). These methods ensure that the employees work towards the improvement of their knowledge and skills and contribute to the success of the organisation. The review of the literature reveals that there is a lack of information available on the methods that are used by the Interior Ministry and the impact of the employment development practices on the performance of employees of Interior Ministry in Jordan, which creates a literature gap. This research study, therefore, will be an attempt to fill this gap and analyse the role that employee development plays in increasing the performance of employees in Interior Ministry in Jordan. Objectives The objectives of a study reflect the intended outcomes of a research which a research intends to achieve and which are responsible for providing a flow to the information (Collins, 2010). Following are the objectives developed for this study: To understand the concept of employee development To examine the significance of employee development in an organisation To analyse the methods that are used by the organisations in the process of employee development To determine the impact of employee development on the performance of employees working in the Interior Ministry of Jordan Research Question What is the impact of employee development on the performance of employees working in the Interior Ministry of Jordan? Methodology The research will make use of the positivist paradigm as the focus of this study is on deriving logical results regarding the methods that are used by the organisations for the employees development (Gratton and Jones, 2010). The research will use the deductive approach as it focuses on making a contribution to the existing theories of employees training and development (Bergh and Ketchen, 2009). This approach will also help in examining the significance of the employee development for the Interior Ministry in Jordan. The proposed study will adopt the exploratory research design which will help the researcher in conducting the study in an objective and analytical manner. As the proposed study seeks to determine the impact of employee development on the performances of employees, this research design will be appropriate (Edmonds and Kennedy, 2012). The data for the study will be gathered with the help of both primary and secondary data collection methods. Under the primary data collection methods, the focus will be on collecting the qualitative data. For this semi-structured interviews will be conducted with 5 managers working in the Ministry of Interior, Jordan. The managers will be selected with the help of the convenience sampling method to reduce the time, cost and efforts of the researcher in the data collection (Black, 2009). The interview method will be used because it will help in gathering the personalised response of the managers and obtaining a high response rate for the study(Lim and Ting, 2013). For the secondary data resources, the data will be collected with the help of books, magazines, journals, and online articles. It will help the researcher in synthesising the opinions and ideas of various scholars and academicians which would further assist in providing a foundation for the study. The data gathered from the interviews will be analysed and presented with the help of thematic analysis method. Timeline Key Activities (Milestones) Time-scale (Plan of action) Resources required (Equipment, software, personnel etc) Chapter1- Introduction 1 Month N/A Chapter 2- Literature Review 2 Months Secondary sources- books and peer reviewed journals Chapter 3- Research Methodology 1 Month Primary and secondary data collection and analysis tools Chapter 4- Data Analysis and Discussion 2 Months Interviews as a primary data collection tool and the result will be analysed using thematic analysis technique Chapter 5- Conclusion, Recommendations and Future work 1 Month N/A References Bergh, D. D. and Ketchen, D. J. 2009. Research Methodology in Strategy and Management. Bingley: Emerald Group Publishing. Black, K. 2009. Business Statistics: Contemporary Decision Making. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons. Collins, H. 2010. Creative Research: The Theory and Practice of Research for the Creative Industries. London: AVA Publishing. Edmonds, W. A. and Kennedy, T. D. 2012. An Applied Reference Guide to Research Designs: Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods: Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods. London: SAGE. Gratton, C., and Jones, I. 2010. Research Methods for Sports Studies. Taylor Francis. Harrison, R. 2012. Employee Development. Universities Press. Khan, R.A.G., Khan, F.A. and Khan, M.A. 2011. Impact of training and development on organizational performance.Global Journal of Management and Business Research11(7), pp. 63-68. Kraiger, K., Passmore, J., Rebelo dos Santos, N. and Malvezzi, S. 2014. The Wiley Blackwell Handbook of the Psychology of Training, Development, and Performance Improvement. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons. Lee, C.H. and Bruvold, N.T. 2003. Creating value for employees: investment in employee development.The International Journal of Human Resource Management14(6), pp. 981-1000. Lim, W. M. and Ting. D.H. 2013. Research Methodology: A Toolkit of Sampling and Data Analysis Techniques for Quantitative Research. Germany: GRIN Verlag. Richenhagen, M. 2013. Simply Management. Bloomington: iUniverse. Salah, M.R.A. 2016. The Impact of Training and Development on Employees Performance and Productivity. International Journal of Management Sciences and Business Research 5(7), pp. 36-70. Wilson, J.P. 2005. Human Resource Development: Learning Training for Individuals Organizations. London: Kogan Page.

social research Essays (333 words) - Academic Disciplines, Articles

Jacari Gentry Assignment 1 "Sociology shouldn't be confused with social philosophy. It is not a point of view about the way things ought to be. Rather, sociology deals with the way things are. Moreover, sociology is more than just an opinion about the way things are." After reading this article, I now have a better outlook the concept of sociology and ways to better myself in society. In this article, it educated me on how the term sociology is really the use of critical thinking. In this article it talks about how sociology is a science used to explain how people develop their way of thinking. If people used critical thinking more then the world would be a better place to live in. It allows for people to expand their minds and think more logically. It helps the issue with problem solving because it eliminates factors that aren't important to the situation. Sociology also helps with the way that we live our daily lives together as a society. People have developed their own beliefs and culture through the use of sociology. It explains why we are able to get along. We all have the freedom to have our choices of religion and speak any language we would like. It's the job of a sociologist to study the way we connect with each other. Human interaction is important because it's what makes the world go around. We buy, trade, and sell with each other. Through those interaction is where we build relationships and that can carry from one generation to another. In the end, it must be known that the study of sociology is a concept that is needed in society. It's important to understand and find new ways to interact and build as a society. The world changes everyday we go to sleep and wake up. It's up to us to decide if we want that change to be positive or negative. We can always correct issues between humans with the use of sociology.

Ideal of Perfection essays

Ideal of Perfection essays Throughout history the Greeks have been know to be excellent in almost every aspect of life. Aristocracy was a major part in the structure of Greek culture and males were the complete rulers of the Greek cities. The Greeks set up a social structure where the males would be gauged by the Greek ideal of perfection. If a male was to follow these ideals he was honored and worshiped by the women and the lower classes of the towns but there were many necessities that one had to abide by. There are many ideas that the Greeks had to consider for one to be perfect but one of the most important characteristics was for a man to have a gorgeous, slender, muscular and fit body. Since most of the events that took place, mostly arena fighting, took place in the nude and fit bodies were definitely admired. Not only did the females during events and daily life admire these bodies, but since homosexuality was a big role in their society, males liked fit bodies on their male friends as well. It was most common for adult males to have relationships with young men. This was considered a perfection trait because these relations were see to be education, teaching the young me ideas and beliefs about their society among other things. These fit bodies on the men represented that they were strong, powerful, very courageous and since it was mostly military men it showed that they also had money because most people at that time couldnt afford to be in the army because they didnt get paid, hence people in the army must have been able to afford it, they had money. It was not only important to have fit bodies, homosexual partners and money, but an education was very important in this perfection ideal. This education goes along with how men interacted with their homosexual partners. Since these relationships were seen as an education experience for the young men, the males would definitely have to be educated not ...

Spanish Shawl Nudibranch - Flabellina iodinea Profile

Spanish Shawl Nudibranch - Flabellina iodinea Profile    The Spanish shawl nudibranch (Flabellina iodinea), also known as the purple aeolis, is a striking nudibranch, with a purple or bluish body, red rhinophores and orange cerata. Spanish shawl nudibranchs can grow to about 2.75 inches in length. Unlike some nudibranchs, which remain on their chosen substrate, this nudibranch can swim in the water column by flexing its body from side to side in a u-shape. Click here for a video of a Spanish shawl nudibranch swimming. Seeing this nudibranch swimming may remind you of the fringed shawls worn by Flamenco dancers, for which this nudibranch gets its name.    Classification:    Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Mollusca Class: Gastropoda Order: Nudibranchia Family: Flabellinoidea Genus: Flabellina species: iodinea    Habitat and Distribution: You might think of a colorful creature like this as inaccessible - but Spanish shawl nudibranchs are found in relatively shallow water in the Pacific Ocean from British Columbia, Canada to the Galapagos Islands. They can be found in intertidal areas out to a water depth of about 130 feet. Feeding: This nudibranch feeds on a species of hydroid (Eudendrium ramosum), which possesses a pigment called astaxanthin. This pigment gives the Spanish shawl nudibranch its brilliant color. In the Spanish shawl nudibranch, the astaxanthin shows up in 3 different states, creating the purple, orange and red colors found on this species. Astaxanthin is also found in other marine creatures, including lobsters (which contributes to the lobsters red appearance when cooked), krill, and salmon. Reproduction:    Nudibranchs are hermaphroditic - they poses reproductive organs of both sexes, so they can mate opportunistically when another nudibranch is nearby. Mating occurs when two nudibranchs get together - the reproductive organs are on the right side of the body, so the nudibranchs match up their right sides. Usually both animals pass sperm sacs through a tube, and eggs are laid. Nudibranchs may be found first by seeing their eggs - if you see eggs, the adults who laid them may be nearby. The Spanish shawl nudibranch lays ribbons of eggs that are pinkish-orange in color, and are often found on the hydroids upon which it preys. After about a week, the eggs develop into free-swimming veligers, which eventually settle on the ocean bottom as a miniature nudibranch that grows into a larger adult.    Sources:    Goddard, J.H.R. 2000. Flabellina iodinea (Cooper, 1862).  Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Accessed November 11, 2011.McDonald, G. Intertidal Invertebrates of the Monterey Bay Area, California.  Accessed November 11, 2011.Rosenberg, G. and Bouchet, P. 2011. Flabellina iodinea (J. G. Cooper, 1863). World Register of Marine Species. Accessed on November 14, 2011.SeaLifeBase. Flabellina iodinea. Accessed November 14, 2011.

Brief essay on why you would like to have a career as a surgical

Brief on why you would like to have a career as a surgical technologist - Essay Example This paper aims at explaining the reasons as to why I would like to have a career as a surgical technologist. For a person to be successful as a surgical technologist there are a number of skills and abilities that they are supposed to have. For instance, I am aware of the fact that a good surgical technologist needs to have manual dexterity that can enable them to handle instruments quickly. Having trained as a pharmacy technician at St. Johns University I am convinced that during the process I certainly gained the relevant skills that can enable me to meet the skills that have been mentioned herein. Such skills will enable me to make a good surgical technologist. Another thing is that a surgical technologist should have the ability to respond quickly and be aware of the surgery procedures so that they can be able to know which instrument to prepare without having to wait for the surgeons or nurses to tell them what they should be preparing (Fuller, and Armistead 111). This is something that can only come with experience. The experience can allow someone to completely familiarize with the process as a result of being involved in the process repeatedly. On my side, I can say that I have gathered the relevant experience that will enable me to effectively work as a surgical technologist. I worked as an office manager at the cardiology clinic for a period of 7 years. I am sure that during this period I learnt allot about surgical procedures that might help me in being a good surgical technologist. Being familiar with surgical processes am sure that it would not take me long before I am able to be effective as a surgical technologist. This gives m e an advantage over those who have not had any experience. I am also convinced that I have the physical ability to be a surgical technologist. One thing that is required of a surgical technologist is physical strength because of the activities that

Complaints Against an Attorney Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Complaints Against an Attorney - Essay Example The subchapter 8.100 of the Michigan Court rules clearly states some rules that regulate the conduct of attorneys. In addition, the Michigan Supreme Court occasionally produces administrative orders, which can have the same effect of the Michigan Court Rules governing attorney practices. (Michigan legal ethics). Michigan attorneys are accountable for their misconducts regardless of whether or not they are occurred in the course of an attorney-client relationship. According to the section 0.2:240 of the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct, misconduct can be referred to as â€Å"conduct prejudicial to the proper administration of justice† or â€Å"conduct that exposes the legal profession or the courts to obloquy contempt, censure or reproach† (Michigan legal ethics). An individual can file a complaint against the attorney if the individual truly believes that the attorney’s conduct was against justice, professional ethics, honesty and good morals. If the attorney’s conduct does not meet the Standards of Professional Responsibility set by the Supreme Court, he will be found guilty. An individual can file a Request for Investigation if the attorney’s conduct is contrary to US’ or any of its states’ criminal law. An attorney will be found accountable for his misconduct if he intentionally misrepresents any fact or circumstance. In short, an individual can file a Request for Investigation against an attorney if the complainant really believes that the conduct of the attorney was against his professional ethics. Anyone can file a complaint against an attorney licensed by the State Bar of Michigan or permitted by an authoritative court by filling and signing the Request for Investigation form of AGC. In addition, the complaint can also be filed by sending in a signed letter. According to the Attorney Grievance Commission, â€Å"The form or letter must be signed and sufficiently describe the alleged

The needs of society Essay Example for Free

The needs of society Essay Sensitivity and awareness to the needs of society helps authorities of educational institutions guide students toward success not only for themselves but for their country as well. Reading about the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) and the connections of Human Resource Development with vocational training reinforces my belief that teaching is merely transferring knowledge. Understanding the needs of society helps administrators of educational institutions form our own programs that would lead towards the success of education as a tool for America’s economic supremacy. However, upon reading news such as the one by USATODAY. com’s Richard Benedetto (2003), my own negative belief in the NCLB has been reinforced. My experience showed me that children have their own strengths and weaknesses that do not always involve academics. NCLB seems to be an ideal political move but it has ineffective because of its wrong principles. The real causes of student academic failure most of the time is rooted on family issues. What NCLB and those who are interested in creating a good work force for the USA must consider is that success has to deal with more than just academic and skills training. How important are academics and skills training compared to the inculcation of moral values? If No Child must be Left Behind, then what kind of standards can we practically create when children are individuals who have their own weaknesses and strengths that are not always academic based? Gary Becker (1992), Nobel Prize Winner, believes that employees can only be true assets of a company if they are not only trained with skills but also if they learn how to deal with their colleagues†¦a topic not mentioned in the articles that keep focusing on the needs of the future labor force. With families disinterested in academic success for children and companies ignoring the idea that workers succeed if they have better relationships, does the problem really lie on the institutions built or the priorities our country has really learned to place importance on? References Becker, G. (1992). The Economic Way of Looking At Life. Economic Sciences. 44. Benedetto, R. (2003). Suit against No Child Left Behind about education, politics. Retrieved May 30, 2008, from http://www. usatoday. com/news/opinion/columnist/benedetto/2005- 04-23-benedetto_x. htm

The Effect of Full House on My Life Essay -- Sitcom Television Compare

The Effect of Full House on My Life When I look back at my childhood, I see it as a highly colored, exaggerated version of what it must have been. Everything seems brighter, and bigger than reality allows. It’s the ideal â€Å"child’s world,† full of Barbies, dress-up, and playgrounds. But, if I try hard enough, I can remember the feeling of being there. The feeling of being small, and nearly innocent. Most of the time when I think of my childhood, I look back on two specific years, kindergarten and first grade, and the summers before and after the two. Both of these took place in Schaumburg, Illinois, in a two-bedroom town-home that I still call â€Å"my old house† even though it’s not that anymore. I’m not sure if these are the years I simply remember the best, or if that was actually the time I felt most like a child. I had many friends, and we had plenty of time to play games and use our imaginations. Nevertheless, I don’t usually reminisce about the shows and movies that I used to watch, and certainly not how these things affected me growing up. When prompted, however, I can remember specifics. I even begin to see how visual texts, like The Little Mermaid and Full House, have influenced me throughout my life and especially in my childhood. I have felt the impact of these things in my life as recently as this year, and I can see not only how the shows I watched influenced my behavior, but also that I chose to watch shows and movies that I thought were representative of me. The show I remember watching most is definitely Full House. I mean, I thought I was D.J. Tanner. I had exact replicas of some of her outfits (like the blue, polka-dot blouse and pants set), and I was constantly asking to have my hair blown out just like hers.... ...less impossible. Full House, The Little Mermaid, and Under the Tuscan Sun all held examples, and lessons that I have often applied to my own life. Whether I was looking up to straight-laced D.J. Tanner, or the mischievous mermaid named Ariel, these visual texts have been an important influence on my life. All were things to aspire, and look forward to. The things I watched on TV. and in movies as a child definitely helped to shape my personality and views on life. Equally important are more recent movies and experiences that I can relate to my childhood favorites. Whether I’m looking back to my past in Schaumburg, or remembering moments as recent as last summer, by analyzing what it is I like about specific visual texts, I can learn a lot about myself. They are all representative of the kind of person I am, and the kind of person that I have always wanted to be. The Effect of Full House on My Life Essay -- Sitcom Television Compare The Effect of Full House on My Life When I look back at my childhood, I see it as a highly colored, exaggerated version of what it must have been. Everything seems brighter, and bigger than reality allows. It’s the ideal â€Å"child’s world,† full of Barbies, dress-up, and playgrounds. But, if I try hard enough, I can remember the feeling of being there. The feeling of being small, and nearly innocent. Most of the time when I think of my childhood, I look back on two specific years, kindergarten and first grade, and the summers before and after the two. Both of these took place in Schaumburg, Illinois, in a two-bedroom town-home that I still call â€Å"my old house† even though it’s not that anymore. I’m not sure if these are the years I simply remember the best, or if that was actually the time I felt most like a child. I had many friends, and we had plenty of time to play games and use our imaginations. Nevertheless, I don’t usually reminisce about the shows and movies that I used to watch, and certainly not how these things affected me growing up. When prompted, however, I can remember specifics. I even begin to see how visual texts, like The Little Mermaid and Full House, have influenced me throughout my life and especially in my childhood. I have felt the impact of these things in my life as recently as this year, and I can see not only how the shows I watched influenced my behavior, but also that I chose to watch shows and movies that I thought were representative of me. The show I remember watching most is definitely Full House. I mean, I thought I was D.J. Tanner. I had exact replicas of some of her outfits (like the blue, polka-dot blouse and pants set), and I was constantly asking to have my hair blown out just like hers.... ...less impossible. Full House, The Little Mermaid, and Under the Tuscan Sun all held examples, and lessons that I have often applied to my own life. Whether I was looking up to straight-laced D.J. Tanner, or the mischievous mermaid named Ariel, these visual texts have been an important influence on my life. All were things to aspire, and look forward to. The things I watched on TV. and in movies as a child definitely helped to shape my personality and views on life. Equally important are more recent movies and experiences that I can relate to my childhood favorites. Whether I’m looking back to my past in Schaumburg, or remembering moments as recent as last summer, by analyzing what it is I like about specific visual texts, I can learn a lot about myself. They are all representative of the kind of person I am, and the kind of person that I have always wanted to be.

Biology 2160: Test Questions

Question 1 5 out of 5 points The nutrients fall into ______ classes Answer Selected Answer: 3. 6 Correct Answer: 3. 6 †¢Question 2 5 out of 5 points The most energy-rich of the nutrients is: Answer Selected Answer: 2. fat Correct Answer: 2. fat †¢Question 3 5 out of 5 points All of the following nutrients are organic EXCEPT: Answer Selected Answer: 1. minerals Correct Answer: 1. minerals †¢Question 4 0 out of 5 points Effects of physical activity on the body include all of the following EXCEPT: Answer Selected Answer: 5. all of the following are effects of physical activity Correct Answer: 1. decreased bone density Question 5 5 out of 5 points Carbohydrate and protein each contain __ calories in a gram. Answer Selected Answer: 2. 4 Correct Answer: 2. 4 †¢Question 6 5 out of 5 points The abundance of types of foods today has made it: Answer Selected Answer: 1. more difficult to plan a nutritious diet Correct Answer: 1. more difficult to plan a nutritious diet †¢Question 7 5 out of 5 points Your family always has rice available at every meal, just as it has been for every generation. This is an example of ____ of food selection. AnswerSelected Answer: 1. cultural tradition Correct Answer: 1. cultural tradition †¢Question 8 5 out of 5 pointsA study conducted in several countries where a high intake of fish and a low intake of animal fat were correlated with a low rate of breast cancer death is an example of a(n): Answer Selected Answer: 1. epidemiological study Correct Answer: 1. epidemiological study †¢Question 9 0 out of 5 points Scientists have developed a new type of margarine containing plant ingredients they think will lower blood cholesterol levels in people who use the margarine. They want to test this by having some people use the new margarine for a while and then compare their cholesterol levels with those of a group of people who use regular margarine.This is an example of what type of research design? Answer Selected Answer: 4. laboratory study Correct Answer: 3. intervention study †¢Question 10 5 out of 5 points The main purpose of the national research projects, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) and the Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals (CSFII), is to: Answer Selected Answer: 2. determine what the nutrient and dietary intakes of the population in our country are Correct Answer: 2. determine what the nutrient and dietary intakes of the population in our country are

Special Population and the Advocacy Role

Advocacy is the fighting a cause for an individual or group of invididuals. Many people today need and use an advocate. For example, a social worker advocates for a client so that the client can receive state assistance benefits. An advocate usually pleads or defends a position. The wealthy usually do not need an advocate as they have the means to solve the problem or issue themselves. Many programs from Catholic charities to the federal food stamp programs employee advocates. In the State of Nevada there are local charities that advocate for the protection of children and fight for the rights of prisoners and victims of crimes. Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errant’s and the Recovery Group Cure, (Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errant’s) and the Recovery Group Inc. are such charities that advocate for prisoners in the State of Nevada Legislature in hopes to create laws equal and just. Carson City Nevada is the state capital of Nevada. The state of Nevada has a population of more than two million. Nevada state prisons house over 12,000 inmates. The main purpose of CURE and the Recovery group is to ensure prisons are used for those individuals who belong in prison and to provide available resources to those in prison who want to turn their lives around. CURE currently has 20,000 members. â€Å"Current issues addressed are abolishment of the death penalty, adequate access to legal assistance, effective drug treatment and a constitutional amendment that changes the American justice system† (Nevada-Cure, 2011, p. 1). Members of the CURE group and the Recovery group are currently appearing in the state legislature to speak on such issues as WIC for pregnant women prisoners, an increase in educational programs in prisons, and requiring juvenile justice receiving state funds to file an annual report on the number of juvenile deaths and the circumstances relating to the death of the juvenile (Nevada-Cure, 2011). Adrienne’s Perspective. Adrienne’s husband has been asked to be a part of a committee in the state’s legislature that addresses the issues and concerns of the CURE and Recovery group. She believes that many prisoners have the desire to change their lives; however, many programs are no longer available to the prisoners housed in the state of Nevada’s prisons. A meeting was set up with the Director of Prisons in January to discuss the issues currently addressed in the state legislature. Adrienne realizes the state has limited resources and funding available. She would propose that these two organizations raise money through donations and federal grants. Individuals who do not have the time to advocate for the cause and believe in this cause can donate money to these organizations to fight for the cause. Adrienne and her husband along with other individuals advocate for this cause by being the voice inside the state legislature. Although Adrienne does believe many individuals will never change their lives, she does believe that those whom want to must have the opportunity and resources available to succeed. References Nevada-Cure.org. (2011) Nevada-Cure: Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errants. Retrieved January 15, 2012 from http://www.nevadacure.org/

The Russian Theatre Hostages essays

The Russian Theatre Hostages essays The views of different countries when it comes to news coverage vary greatly for many reasons. One such story is the theatre hostages in Chechnya, Russia. Each country giving information on this story may contain different information from one another. For example, the United States articles on the theatres hostages lists facts given by many different hostages, Russia trys to make themselves look good and does not give as much information. Chechnya, Russia is where all of this is took place. The people holding these hostages are referred to as rebels. The captors state that they are ready to die and they can resist as long as they want. They ask for an absolute end to the war and that the Russian troops in Chechnya leave. If President Vladimir Putin refuses to pull out he troops, the captors threatened to shoot and kill about ten people an hour. (Theatre Hostages: Lots of blood.) There were over seven hundred hostages being held in the theatre. They were all there to see the performance, Nord Ost. They came from places such as Russia, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Australia, Britain, and the United States. The captors allowed a Russian television crew into the theatre. They filmed many of the hostages, most of which pleaded for the government not to come and attack because the men had explosives and were not afraid to kill all of the hostages and themselves. While the news crew was still filming, me mbers of the International Committee of the Red Cross entered the theatre. They then releases more than forty-one people; pregnant women, children, and the elderly. Since all of this is taken place in Russia, it automatically makes bad reviews for the country. The Russians main focus in the article is when they practically pat themselves on the back when they avoided a terrible tragedy (117 hostages die in theatre attack), which in my eyes I believe that what happened in that theatre was ...

New 2018 PSAT Percentiles and Selection Index

New 2018 PSAT Percentiles and Selection Index SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Your PSAT score report will show you a myriad of scores, including your total score, section scores, subscores, percentiles, and Selection Index (SI). This guide will focus on the last two pieces of data: your PSAT score percentiles and Selection Index. Because it’s important to understand how the other scores in your reportrelate to your PSAT percentiles and Selection Index, we’ll start with a quick review of terms. If you’re one of many students or parents looking for directions out ofthe complex mazethat is the PSAT score report, read on to have the path illuminated! What Scores Will You See on Your PSAT Score Report? If you took the PSAT, then you know your score report contains a lot of data. The various scores fall on different scales, and all of them arecalculated from your raw score, or the total number of questions you got right.In other words, your raw score is made up of one point for every correct answer. Note that you don’t get any deductions for wrong or skipped answers. Let’s take a moment to define the various scores you'll see on your PSAT score report to clear up any confusion and revealwhere your percentiles and Selection Index come from. Total score- the sum of your two PSAT section scores, ranging between 320 and 1520. Section scores (2)- a score for Math and a score for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), both between 160 and 760. Test scores (3)- separate scores for Math, Reading, and Writing Language, all between 8 and 38. Cross-test scores (2)- scores to measure your performance on Analysis in History/Social Studies and Analysis in Science questions taken from all three subject areas (Math, Reading, and Writing); these scores range from 8 to 38 (as test scores do) Subscores (7)- scores to measure your performance on PSAT questions in seven specific skill areas: Command of Evidence, Words in Context, Expression of Ideas, Standard English Conventions, Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving Data Analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math; each subscore ranges from 1 to 15 Nationally Representative Percentile- shows how your scores compare with scores of all US students in your grade, including those who typically don'ttake the PSAT User Percentile- shows how your score compares with scores of US students in your grade who typically take the PSAT Selection Index- a scoring system used by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation to determine eligibility for Commended Scholar, Semifinalist, and Finalist As you can see, there are a lot of scores on your PSAT score report. Your section and total scores, along with the percentiles they fall in, are by far the most important for understanding your performance on the test. Your cross-test scores and subscores are useful asfeedback on your strengths and weaknesses as a test taker. You can use this feedback to help you prep for the PSAT again (if you’re a younger student) or to get ready for the SAT if you’re already a junior. Now that we’ve defined these scores, let’s consider the metric that compares your performance with that of other test takers: your PSAT percentiles. Read on so you, too, can magically juggle percentiles in the palms of your hands. What to Know About PSAT Percentiles PSAT percentiles are useful because they compare your exam performance with that of other test takers in your grade. If you scored in the 90th percentile, for example, you scored the same as or higher than 90% of test takers (the remaining 10% scored higher than you). As explained above, the Nationally Representative Percentile takesinto account all students, even those who don’t typically take the PSAT. This percentile includes students who didn't take the test, but who, on the whole, presumably would have scored lower if they had. The Nationally Representative percentile appears to be based on the population of all US students in a certain grade rather than on the population of PSAT test takers in a certain grade.For this post, we’ll focus on User Percentiles,which are calculated based on the performance of students who actually tookthe PSAT. If these two percentiles seem confusing, it’s because they are. In fact, somecritics have questioned the accuracy of both percentiles, suggesting that they're inflated and "presentinga rosier picture† of student PSAT scores to sway students toward the SATand away fromthe ACT. While it’s unclear whether or not these criticisms are warranted, it does appear that the data has the potential to fluctuate in the future. For now, these are the percentile charts that the College Board released in 2018. They show how your total and section PSAT scores get represented by percentiles. Critics of the PSAT might be right to be suspicious. As many people know, 73.6% of statistics are made up on the spot. PSAT Total Scores to Percentiles This chart, based on the College Board's 2018 PSAT scores report,shows the User Percentiles for total PSAT scores.You can also check outour other guides if you want to learn more about PSAT percentiles for sophomores or freshmen. Whether you want to check these percentiles against your own score report or are looking up your results on a PSAT practice test, you can find your percentiles by locating your total PSAT test score. Again, this willrange between 320 and 1520 and is the sum of your two section scores (Math and EBRW). If you scored 650 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 700 in Math, for example, your total PSAT score would be 650 + 700 = 1350. Based on the chart, you can see that a total score of 1350 falls in the 94th percentile. Scroll down to find yours or, conversely, to see what you would need to score to make it into your target percentile. Total Score Percentile Total Score Percentile 1520 99+ 1070 62 1510 99+ 1060 60 1500 99+ 1050 58 1490 99+ 1040 56 1480 99 1030 54 1470 99 1020 52 1460 99 1010 51 1450 98 1000 49 1440 98 990 47 1430 98 980 45 1420 97 970 43 1410 97 960 41 1400 97 950 40 1390 96 940 38 1380 96 930 36 1370 95 920 34 1360 95 910 32 1350 94 900 31 1340 94 890 29 1330 93 880 27 1320 93 870 26 1310 92 860 24 1300 91 850 23 1290 91 840 21 1280 90 830 20 1270 89 820 18 1260 88 810 17 1250 87 800 15 1240 86 790 14 1230 85 780 12 1220 84 770 11 1210 83 760 10 1200 82 750 9 1190 81 740 8 1180 79 730 7 1170 78 720 6 1160 77 710 5 1150 75 700 4 1140 74 690 3 1130 72 680 3 1120 70 670 2 1110 69 660 2 1100 67 650 2 1090 65 590-640 1 1080 63 580 and below 1- Learning any new skill takes hours of dedicated practice. Doing well on the PSAT is no different! PSAT Section Scores to Percentiles While the chart above shows PSAT percentiles represented by total scores, this next one shows the percentiles assigned to section scores. As described above, you’ll get two section scores on the PSAT: one for Math and one for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. Each score isbetween 160 and 760. Just like in the chart above, you can use the following chart to find your percentiles ortofind out what scores you need to achieve your target percentile on a particular PSAT section. In addition to helping you prep and interpret your PSAT scores, whether on practice tests or the real thing, percentiles can be helpful for estimating your chances of gettingNational Merit distinction. We'll talk more about why this matters in a moment. Section Score EBRW Percentile Math Percentile 760 99+ 99+ 750 99+ 99 740 99 98 730 99 97 720 98 96 710 97 96 700 96 95 690 95 94 680 94 93 670 93 93 660 91 92 650 89 91 640 88 90 630 86 89 620 84 87 610 81 85 600 79 83 590 76 81 580 73 78 570 70 75 560 67 72 550 63 69 540 60 65 530 56 62 520 53 58 510 49 55 500 46 52 490 43 48 480 39 44 470 36 40 460 33 36 450 31 33 440 28 29 430 25 26 420 22 23 410 20 19 400 17 16 390 15 13 380 12 10 370 10 9 360 8 7 350 6 5 340 5 4 330 3 3 320 2 2 310 2 2 300 1 1 290 1 1 280 1 1 270 1- 1 260 1- 1- 250 and below 1- 1- If you're aiming for National Merit, you need to know your Selection Index score. How Do PSAT Percentiles Relate to National Merit? Students who score highly on the PSAT their junior year might qualify for National Merit distinction. The top 3-4% of scorers every year are named Commended Scholars, while the top 1% are named Semifinalists and can potentially go on to become Finalists and scholarship recipients. Your percentiles on your PSAT score report are an estimate rather than an exact prediction of your chances of National Merit. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation actually uses its own scale called a Selection Index (SI) to determine National Merit. The NMSC compares students nationally for Commended Scholar but determines eligibility on a state-by-state basis for Semifinalist. It uses this state-by-state system to ensure there is an even distribution of Semifinalist awards throughout the country. This discussion of National Merit brings us to an important piece of data: your Selection Index. What Is the Selection Index? Your score report will give you your Selection Index (SI) score; you can also calculate this yourself, as you’ll see below. Your Selection Index will look much different from your total PSAT score since it ranges between 48 and 228. To be named National Merit Semifinalist, you’ll need a Selection Index score at or above a certain cutoff. Each state’s cutoff is different (usually students testing in New Jersey; Washington, DC; and abroad have the highest ones) and changes from year to year. Based on reports from students around the country, we've compiled the full list of 2018 cutoffs for each state. If you took the PSAT as a junior, you can check out our National Merit Semifinalist guide to get a sense of whether or not you might qualify. Remember that cutoffs can change from year to year. So where does this Selection Index score between 48 and 228 come from? Read on to find out. Calculating your Selection Index score is easy. All you need is a calculator, a spoon, a Yukon Gold potato, and a dozen European coins. How to Calculate Your Selection Index Score Your Selection Index score is calculated from your PSAT test scores. As you saw in the glossary at the beginning of this guide, you get three test scores: one for Math, one for Reading, and one for Writing and Language. Each test score ranges from 8 to 38. If you take the PSAT/NMSQT, your score report will show you your Selection Index. You can also easily calculate this score yourself by adding your three test scores together and multiplying the sum by 2. The chart below shows how you would calculate your Selection Index score if you earned a 35 in Reading, a 32 in Writing and Language, and a 37 in Math: Section Score Sum x 2 Selection Index Score Reading 35 (35 + 32 + 37) x 2 = 208 Writing and Language 32 Math 37 If you scored in top percentiles and think you might be eligible for National Merit, you can check out our state-by-state cutoffs for the 2018 PSAT. In closing, let’s review what you need to know about the PSAT scoring system, particularly the percentiles and Selection Index. Key Points: Scores on the PSAT The PSAT is scored on a scale from 320 to 1520. Its scale is shifted down from the SAT’s scale, which is 400-1600, to account for the fact that the PSAT is a somewhat easier test. Your Reading and Writing and Language performances are reported together as a single Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score between 160 and 760. Your other section score is Math and also ranges between 160 and 760. Your score report will tell you two percentiles: the Nationally Representative and User percentiles. It is generally thought that the User Percentile is the more accurate and useful of the two,as it's based primarily on students who typically take the PSAT. The charts above show the percentiles represented by your total and section scores on the PSAT. If you’re taking and scoring your own PSAT practice tests, you can use the charts to determine what scores you need to achieve to make it into your target percentile. If you score in a top percentile on the PSAT, then you might be named National Merit Commended Scholar or National Merit Semifinalist. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation typically notifies qualifying students in September. While your PSAT score report might look confusing with all its measures and metrics, the various scores on it can actually be extremelyuseful as feedback for your PSAT and SAT prep. If you take the time to comprehend your PSAT score report or calculate these scores on your own from practice tests, you’ll gain valuable insight into your profileas a test taker. You can use this feedback to shape your prep, whether you’re taking the PSAT again or preparing for the very similar SAT. Whatever the case, it’s a good first step to take stock of your academic strengths and weaknesses and design a personalized study plan that will work for you! What’s Next? Now that you’ve gained some insight into PSAT scores, check out our guide to learn about the SAT scoring system.In it, we break down how the SAT is scored and give you scoring charts so you can score your own practice tests. What should you do after you get your PSAT score report? This in-depth guide discusses some next steps everyone should take after getting their PSAT scores. Are you aiming for top scores on the PSAT?Learn all about the test here, and then download PSAT practice tests to help you study. If you’re aiming for National Merit, check out this guide on how to get a perfect score on the PSAT. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points?We've written a guide about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

The Song of the Hummingbird Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Song of the Hummingbird - Essay Example According to the discussion  in 1519, a small group Spaniard soldiers led by Hernan Cortes docked on the Mexican Vera Cruz coastline. By mid-August 1521, the capital city of the Mexican empire had fallen to the hands of the Spaniards. This dramatic milestone signified the start of one the globes most famous holocausts. However, this comprehensive destroying of an entire civilization was not conducted through military conquest alone. In 1524, at the invitation by Hernan Cortes for 12 Franciscan monks guided by Fray Toribio arrived in Vera Cruz and journeyed bare footed up to Mexico City. By this time, Hernan Cortes and his other men, had conquered almost the entire of Mexico, but was being affected becoming more and more weak with Cortes’ chase of a rogue army personnel in the north of the nation; only 200 Spaniards gathered together in Mexico city fighting against each other with other Mexican masses keenly waiting for a chance to defeat these new settlers.From this paper it is clear that  Mexicans totally lost their religion to the Spaniards. As a mere consolation, by wiping out the heart and soul of the religious civilization of the Mexican culture, the Spanish church leaders declared ownership of all Mexican people and as such turned into the mask of the Mexican citizens against the carnages done by the Spanish in the name of monetary gain.  This only shows that apart from destroy their past religion, the Spaniards also forced the Mexicans into Christianity.

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

Heterosexism - Essay Example A cursory analysis of available costumes illustrated that twenty two costumers were propagating hyper heterosexism. They were even segregated into sections named as ‘Male’ and ‘Female’ costumers. There were also unisex costumes like burglar costume or angel costume. However, it was evident that majority of these costumes encouraged heterosexual partnerships. This costume based stratification can be explained with the help of feminist sociology theories that support existence of a social order and values related to it that are meant to be followed by individuals in order to demonstrate their participation in a gender-based group participation (Ingraham 209). There were eight costumes that could have been seen as being suitable for same-sex partnerships. These costumes included Scottish outfits, Mario costumes, wrestler costumes, and other revealing warrior costumes. The store also had a male personification of Adam and Eve costume which was clearly supporting same sex relationship. This study helped in understanding that there was a rather limited choice for customers who do not wish to propagate hetero-normative gendered constructs. The store had a collection of object-based inanimate costumes such as Cupcakes, Robotic characters, Banners and other similar costumes that were equally famous in male and female customers, according to the store owner. These costumes are delivering clear messages about heterosexual relationships. The costumes meant for female customers included Ballerina dresses, Disney movie characters and others clearly having a feminine outlook. On the other hand, costumes meant for boys had moderate to strong masculinity attached to them as they were reflecting a degree of physical violence and aggression. When asked about a Tuxedo hanging in the Halloween section, store manager responded that it is meant for female customers as it was ‘sleeker’ as compared to

CASE STUDY ----- Accsys Technologies PLC Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

----- Accsys Technologies PLC - Case Study Example This paper will analyze the financial statements and annual reports of the company and identify three areas of heightened audit risk in the auditing of the company this year. In addition, the paper will explain the reasons for five substantive audit procedures in relation to the areas of heightened audit risk identified. From the annual report of the company, it is evident that there are some areas that require heightened audit risk this year. One of the areas in the company that has heightened audit risk is the operating costs. There was an increase in the operating costs of the company by 11%. While the figure was 13.5 million pounds in 2013, it rose to 15 million pounds in 2014. This resulted from high costs of administration that the organization incurred during the year. Moreover, there were legal costs that resulted from the arbitration process related to the Diamond Wood. The cost of staff also increased by 9% and this was as a result of the increase in head count (ACCSYS TECHNOLGIES 2015). Operating costs is an area of heightened risk audit in this company since they determine whether the costs incurred by the company are being used to cover the relevant expenses. In addition, costs determine whether there is effective management of costs in the organization and ascertain whether there are activities that contribute to the wastage of the company’s resources. For Accsys Technologies PLC, operating costs represent an area of heightened risk since they keep on increasing and might affect the profitability of the company, as well as the initial business plan of the organization. With proper auditing of the costs such as staff costs, the management can make adjustments to the operations of the organization and ensure that the company is in the right track (ACCSYS TECHNOLGIES 2015). Another area of heightened audit risk in the audit of the company this year is

Public Perceptions of Health

Public Perceptions of Health INTRODUCTION Studies shows that self-perception is a paramount indication of health outcomes. The degree to which self-perception to health is related with personality trait is, though, largely untold. We aim to study the connection between self-perception, personality and trait among people on Health. Health defines a person that is free from pain, injury and illness in both mind and body. Based on World Health Organization (1946) Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. THE PUBLIC CONCEPTS OF WHAT HEALTH IS According to the public, health means the ability of a person or communities to cope and manage their own health when physical, mental and social challenges occur. On the other hand, some of the people believe that being healthy has something to do with physical condition of the body, in fact it has to do with the whole condition of an individual both mind and body. Lots of people makes a great effort to live healthy and feel good for doing so. Thus with this kind of concept, man’s health is like an open system that continuously affected or influenced by external and internal factors. Factors such as coming from the environment, social dynamics and physical and mental state of health play a role in man’s ability to cope. Consequently these pose a challenge on putting an effective health management strategies. These are reasons why a multi-disciplinary approach to health care is paramount to public health. The involvement of multiple teams and other helth allied health professionals into public health management caters to the diverse needs and factors affecting the genral health of the public. In most first world countries, multidisciplinary approach to healthcare has been proven to provide best outcome of care and very cost effective. THE PUBLIC CONCEPTS OF WHAT ILLNESS IS Illness is a disease or a period of sickness affecting the body. But this does not only refer to physical health. Social conditions like poverty, inadequate nutrition, inappropriate housing, rising pollution and unhygienic and unsafe play areas for children fall into the first stage of illness. Each of these illnesses has different views from the public in New Zealand. People with illness tend to be less motivated the moment when they know about their illness while people around them only give minimal support. Some people tend to refuse or hide illness to prevent others to know their illness out of shame or embarrassment which makes matters worst. Therefore these concepts of illness compliment on how public view health, as completely the opposite. And public’s behaviour towards illness greatly affect the healthcare delivery system. Fears, anxiety, social stigma and poor understanding or lack of awareness are factors that are hard to overcome by health professionals in getting services to the public and often the cause of poor compliance to treatment. Thus, management or treatment of illness should not only focus on the physical symptoms and organic causes but also on the emotional and social impact of them to the person. Health professionals practicing under a multidisciplinary team recognize the importance of a support system for someone who is sick especially once they are in the community. For example, smokers in the pacific region give less effort to programs that helps to put an end on their smoking habits by substituting cigarettes with Nicotine replacement therapy. This program was tested when 24.6% of the smokers believe that nicotine replacement therapy can cause more harm than smoking itself and strongly believe that smoking can be stopped even without the program. Basically, Nicotine replacement program became ineffective for the pacific people, as a matter of fact, there was a high proportion of people believes on its ineffectiveness and only a relatively low proportion of pacific people especially in South Auckland that made claims for subsidized nicotine replacement therapies. Even though the campaigns and programs are set, more people are still likely to smoke that contributed to the rising air pollution and risking the health others through second hand smoke. In a research conducted by the Counties Manukau study that MÄ ori parents have low to no aw areness of options for stopping the smoking habit. This indicates that these group of smokers should be better aware in order for them to address their mental illness in smoke addiction. The Ministry of Health and World health Organization as well as the health care professional works hand in hand to help people quit from smoking. To encourage the public quit from smoking Policy on health should strictly manage a tobacco-free environment (i.e. workplaces, school etc†¦) and regulate a policy to stop advertising, promoting tobacco products and also to provide more awareness to the public about the negative effect of smoking. THE IMPORTANCE THE PUBLIC PUT ON HEALTH Life threatening diseases, illness and injury may occur in many instances than any of us would expect, but no one ever know when to happen. In public, insurance has a big impact on their health. According to research, around 32 percent of NZ has health insurance. It may not be big part of the population, but considering that public health here is government funded for primary and acute health needs, this number tells us that health really matters for NZ people. People invest for their health to get a better and quicker health service to avoid queuing up for rationed health services shouldered by the government in public health facilities. As compared to getting public health service where services are prioritized according to needs and acuity or urgency, health insurance caters to the individual need of the public without having to to be on a waiting list. PUBLIC ATTITUDES TOWARDS HEALTH AND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS According to a recent studies conducted by Reader’s Digest NZ, a popular general interest magazine, out of the Top 10 most trusted profession here in NZ 5 of them are from the health and medical field. Nurses, doctors, rescue volunteers, pharmacists and Paramedics that topped the lists, were on the 2013 list. This means a confirmation of the quality of service and the public being happy of it. However trust creates expectation, a bigger expectation to maintan the quality and standard of health services. This is a challenge not just by the profesionals themselves but more so to the top management and government health or regulatory agancies to ensure public safety is always protected. CONCLUSION Self-perception to health is associated with attitude and personality regardless if there were self-reported medical condition or none. It was highly suggested that personal characteristic has a major contribution to the attitude and personality of the individual between self-perceived health and health outcomes. References: http://www.healthfunds.org.nz/pdf/Fact%20File%20oct2010.pdf http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/people_and_communities/pacific_peoples/pacific-progress www.stuff.co.nz http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE0508/S00119.htm http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3576258 http://www.shareyouressays.com/113393/short-essay-on-illness http://www.readersdigest.co.nz/most-trusted-professions-2013

Modern Witches Essay -- Witchcraft Research Papers

Modern Witches While doing research for this paper I decided to talk to some modern witches. When I informed some of my friends of this the most common remark was â€Å"Be careful!.† From these conversations it quickly became evident that most people have no idea what witches believe or even if they exist. However, almost everyone has an image of an ugly witch on a broom, who kidnaps and eats little children. Kids dress up like her during Halloween, and books like Hansel and Gretel introduce her to each new generation of children. I became interested in where all these stereotypes about witches come from and how they differ from the reality about witches and Wicca. It seems that most of the stereotypes can be traced to the Middle Ages and the time of the witch craze and the inquisition. 1. The stereotype of witches and where it comes from a. Pre-Christian Witches Although most of the stereotypes of witches can be traced to the Middle Ages, it does not mean that people during this time came up with the description of a witch without prior historical influence. In order to understand what happened during the Middle Ages to create the images of a witch that we know today, it is necessary to go back to pre-Christian times. European witchcraft during the Middle Ages was strongly influenced by beliefs in magic and sorcery from the Greco-Roman as well as Hebrew times. The Greeks had a sophisticated system of magic that was combined with witchcraft and religion. The highest level of magic was that dealing with the gods. This was the one acceptable form. The two lower levels both deal with individuals who claim to brew potions, recite incantations, or give people magical objects. These people usually sold their... ...with all the other groups that fall under the name of witchcraft. References: 1. Adler, Margot. Drawing Down the Moon. Boston: Beacon Press, 1981 2. Ankarloo, Bengt and Henningsen, Gustav. Early Modern European Witchcraft. New York: Oxford University Press, 1990. 3. Barry, Jonathan and Hester, Marianne and Roberts, Gareth. Witchcraft in Early Modern Europe. New York: Cambridge University Press, 1996. 4. Clark, Stuart. Thinking with Demons. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997. 5. Farrar, Stewart. What Witches Do. Blaine: Phoenix Publishing Inc., 1991 6. Russell, Jeffrey. A History of Witchcraft: Sorcerers, Heretics, and Pagans. New York: Themes and Hudson Inc. 1983. 7. Starhawk. The Spiral Dance. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 1989 8. Interview with Seamus McKeon and Sandy Herrera both practicing Wiccans.

Billy Bud Martial Law

Marshal Law in Billy Budd The story â€Å"Billy Budd† by Herman Melville takes place in 1797 on a British navel warship. A man named Billy Budd was recruited into the ranks as a naval sailor for the British ranks. Britain was at war with France during the time so on the warships marshal law was used. Billy Budd is a young sailor newly recruited into the ranks, he is liked by many of his crew. Munity on a lot of British warships has occurred and many officers are scared of their crew turning on them.John Claggart is the master at arms of the ship, his job is to keep an eye on the crew by making sure everyone is doing their job and not trying to start a mutiny. Claggart believes that Billy Budd is a dangerous man and thinks that Billy Budd is liable to mutiny. Claggart on his suspicions goes to speak to the captain and tells Captain Captain Edward Fairfax Vere about Billy Budd. Captain Vere does not believe this and asks Claggart and Billy Budd to come confront one another.Clagg art begins to accuse him and Billy Budd overcome with rage strikes Claggart and he collapses instantly to his death. After this the captain is forced to call for a trial for the death of Claggart. The Captain was the sole witness to the case, during the trial most judges as well as Captain Vere know that Billy Budd did not mean to but because of the Marshal Law set place Billy Bud must be put to death. Captain Vere tells the judges that they must vote to execute Billy Budd to show an example to the rest of the crew.Billy Budd is put to death by hanging. Marshal law plays a big role is the death of Billy Budd. Billy Budd is looked at as unintentionally killing Claggart he is still executed for his crime. The Navy’s Marshal law was enforce and stated that murder is murder regardless of intention. If Marshal law was not enforced Billy Budd would have most likely have been tried for killing Claggart and would have been found guilty but his sentencing would have been different.Bil ly Budd would have most likely been sent to jail for a number of years because of his actions but he would not have been sentenced to death. In Marshal law intention does not matter while in regular law intention is more important then the action that has accured. If someone by accidently killed someone driving they are not put to death but rather charged for manslaughter and could get a couple of years in jail. If the defendant shows that it was not his fault they could even and they did not mean their actions then they could be acquitted of manslaughter as well.But in Marshal law they could be trialed and put to death for simply killing the other. In the case of Billy Budd, Marshal law had a direct account for his execution. If there was no marshal law on the British warship he would have been spared his life. In conclusion Billy Budd’s death had to do solely with the type of law instilled in the British Naval ranks. If Billy Budd would have been charged in regular court he would have been found guilty and sent to jail for a couple of years. Instead Billy Budd was put to death by hanging.

Timed writing rewrite: the Prince

Leaders of countries or Princes must make decisions that not many will agree with, but are the best for the populace and he must make them, no matter the cost. Niccolo Machiavelli uses logos, ethos and distinct clear diction to prove the necessity for a ruler to be able to make unpopular decisions, in an excerpt from his book â€Å"the Prince† (1532). Throughout the excerpt Machiavelli uses logos to talk about this issue in a logical manner. His first step in approaching this topic is when he states to the reader that others have tried to discuss how a prince should act. Machiavelli states that he is doing something along the same lines but what he says is that a prince must be able to do what is not seen as the right thing in the eyes of his people. He then goes to talk about the qualities a prince must have in order to make those tough decisions because not everything that a prince does will be loved by the people so he must learn to deal with this. Machiavelli manages to address all of these points in his work while remaining logical and he uses ethos to try and show the reader a need for such rulers, who are capable of the doing the right thing for his people even if they disagree. An example of this attempt by Machiavelli to establish credibility can be found in lines 3 – 5 â€Å"being my intention to write †¦ useful to him who apprehends it †¦ to follow up the real truth of the matter than the imagination of it †¦ â€Å"this provokes a response from the reader that does have the effect it should have, it makes Machiavelli seem more credible in his argument and that this is not just some fairytale. That Statement made by Machiavelli shows how clear and precise his diction is and this helps him as he tries to prove that a prince must be able to unpopular things that will benefit his nation. The clear and focused diction that is used adds to this a whole new meaning of understanding where now those who are reading this book can picture what the government needs to do for the betterment of society as a whole. Machiavelli persuades his readers using logos and ethos and clear precise diction in his work the prince because he knows just how important it is for our president of a free state is necessary to helping the people.