Thursday, December 26, 2019

African American Literature Toni Morrisons Essay Black...

African American Literature Toni Morrisons Essay Black Matters In Black Matters, Toni Morrison discusses knowledge and how it seems to take on a Eurocentric standpoint. The knowledge she discusses is the traditional literature that is unshaped by the four-hundred-year-old presence of the first Africans and then African-Americans in the United States (Morrison 310). Morrison also addresses the treatment of African Americans in current society dealing with racial discourse (311), in addition, to ignoring matters of race. Morrison strongly argues that the traditional canon, taught and respected by much of society, ignores blacks contribution to society. She is also concerned with the lack of true African representation within the†¦show more content†¦This statement is depicted in Faulkners A Rose for Emily, through the Negro servant named Tobe. Although he is a character in the story, the reference to him is as a doddering Negro man to wait on her#8230; He talked to no one, probably not even to her, for his voice had grown harsh and rusty, as if from disuse (Faulkner 76). I feel through literature, society and white writers show the African-American experience or (black life) as valueless. Morrison also argues that society ignores issues of race by disguising the actual subject. She demonstrates this idea using a famous book within the canon, Huckleberry Finn. She says that, the critique of class and race is there, although disguised or enhanced through a combination of humor, adventure, and the naà ¯ve#8230; the novel masks itself in the comic, the parody and exaggeration of the tall tale (Morrison 320). Despite the serious subject matter within the book it simulates and describes the parasitical nature of white freedom (321). Morrison also claims that society reduces the importance of the African-American experience by perpetuating negative stereotypes. She states that the ending of Huckleberry Finn has been labeled as a brilliant finesse that returns Tom Sawyer to the center stage where he should be (321). By rep lacing the black slave, Jim, with the white character of Tom at the end of the book, racial stereotypes are confirmed.Show MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Black Culture On American Literature1205 Words   |  5 PagesWRIT303 Toni Morrison: Playing in the Dark In Toni Morrison’s article Playing in the Dark, she is discussing how racism effects American literature. To Morrison, black culture is a tiny speck in American literature and she wants to expand it. Before Morrison could even think about doing this, she had to change her perspective and imagine what it is like to be in someone else’s shoes. Morrison states that, â€Å"My work requires me to think about how â€Å"free† I can be as an African-American woman writerRead Morestudy on toni morrison Essay2402 Words   |  10 Pagesï » ¿A Study On Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye Ying-Hua,Liao Introduction Toni Morrison was the winner of the 1993 Nobel Prize for Literature. She is a prominent contemporary American writer devoted to the black literary and cultural movement. Her achievements and dedication to the promotion of black culture have established her distinguished status in American literature. Many critics applaud Toni Morrison’s artistic talent and contribution to American literature. Darwin T. Turner, for exampleRead More Essay on African-American American Nightmare in Song of Solomon798 Words   |  4 PagesAmerican Dream or African-American American Nightmare       The Declaration of Independence was written so Americans could achieve this dream, but the African slave was never intended to be a part of this American Dream. To the African-American, there were and still are many restrictions that go along with the American Dream.    In Toni Morrisons novel, Song of Solomon, Macon Dead craved for the American Dream. He was in denial and believed that he could be just as successful as theRead MoreToni Morrison and Historical Memory5014 Words   |  21 PagesMost of literature written by American minority authors is pedagogic, not toward the dominant culture, but for the minority cultures of which they are members. These authors realize that the dominant culture has misrepresented minority history, and it is the minority writers burden to undertake the challenge of setting the record straight to strengthen and heal their own cultures. Unfortunately, many minorities are ambivalent because they vacillate between assimilation (thereby losing their separatenessRead MoreToni Morrison And Virginia Woolfs The Bluest Eye1629 Words   |  7 Pagestheir works, but that could not be farther than the truth. These women, have in fact, made a tremendous impact on society and sculpted the way we see things in the world today. T oni Morrison, author of The Bluest Eye, challenged the Essentialists’ claim by making a novel about racism, and how it affected African American culture in the 20th century. Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid’s Tale, challenged this notion by addressing issues about sexual violence and political issues, except in theRead MoreThe And Invisible Man By Toni Morrison And Ralph Ellison1726 Words   |  7 Pages The Un-American Race Throughout history, the African American race has battled great social injustices. From slavery to freedom, being property to owning property, African Americans have fought their way to be a part of equal justice. For many black individuals, their identity was non-existent, stripped away, leaving them powerless due to white power. Race, class, and economic standing are all social issues that are prominent in both Beloved and Invisible Man. Toni Morrison and Ralph Ellison areRead MoreTwo Contrasting Views of Slavery in Literature: Beloved and American Negro Slavery2068 Words   |  9 PagesIn this essay, I will be examining the works of two authors on the topic of slavery in America: Ulrich B. Phillips American Negro Slavery (1918) and Toni Morrison Beloved (1987). One writes as a Southerner and a historian who is defending southern slaveholders and draws upon contemporary racial theory to justify the system as beneficial to African Americans. The other writes as an African-Ameri can woman who is looking to write women into history and in doing so, add a female voice to the pastRead More The African-American Nightmare Exposed in Black Literature Essay2231 Words   |  9 PagesAfrican-American Nightmare Exposed in Olaudah Equiano, Narrative of Frederick Douglass, Song of Solomon, and Push    The American Dream was founded on the concept that all men are created equal(Jefferson 729) and that everyone has the capability and resources to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. The Declaration of Independence was written so Americans could achieve this dream, but was not written with the African slave in mind. The African slave was never intended to be a part of thisRead MoreEssay on Race and Class in Alice Walkers Color Purple1622 Words   |  7 PagesEssay on Race and Class in The Color Purple  Ã‚     Ã‚   An important  Ã‚  juncture in Alice Walkers The Color Purple is reached when Celie first recovers the missing letters from her long-lost sister Nettie. This discovery not only signals the introduction of a new narrator to this epistolary novel but also begins the transformation of Celie from writer to reader. Indeed, the passage in which Celie struggles to puzzle out the markings on her first envelope from Nettie provides a concrete illustration Read MoreBrief Summary of the Harlem Renaissance.1863 Words   |  8 Pagestook African American literature seriously and that African American literature and arts attracted significant attention from the nation at large. Although it was primarily a literary movement, it was closely related to developments in African American music, theater, art, and politics. BEGINNINGS The Harlem Renaissance emerged amid social and intellectual upheaval in the African American community in the early 20th century. Several factors laid the groundwork for the movement. A small black middle

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Persepolis A Revolutionary Book Revolutionize The...

Persepolis: A Revolutionary Book to Revolutionize the Christian Perspective Marjane Satrapi’s graphic novel, Persepolis, is a spellbinding read. From start to finish, the story grips the reader with its thought provoking content and touching storyline. The author’s depiction of war torn Iran provides its audience with a better understanding of a people that many Western communities deem as ungodly and dangerous. By reading Satrapi’s work, it becomes clear that the Iranian people are much less one-dimensional than most automatically assume. From a Christian perspective, this is particularly important because it reminds us of God’s call to love and care for all people, regardless of their beliefs. The book helps Christian readers to open their eyes and see the needs of a hurting people who see religion as a government mandated obligation rather than a life giving gift. Throughout the graphic novel, Persepolis, religion becomes less and less of a priority due to the increasing basic needs of the Iranian people; however, despite the r ather depressing content, Persepolis is beneficial for Christian readers because they can use the information presented in the book to better serve hurting communities. At first glance, the artwork presented in Persepolis seems mediocre at best. The drawings are simple, black and white images that contain very little detail. However, there is a meaningfulness that can be extracted from the author/illustrator’s decision to represent her characters

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Physical Distribution Logistics Management -Myassignmenthelp.Com

Question: Discuss About The Physical Distribution Logistics Management? Answer: Introduction Logistic and supply chain management refers to the necessary activities undertaken by the organization for distributing the products and services to the potential clients. According to Stadtler (2015), an organization can achieve the success by improving the effective logistic and supply chain process. Strive for achieving the competitive position has become the common focus for the internationalized entities. These companies look for the best approach to develop the value added aspects that can feed the needs of the potential customers. It is to be indicated that every organization adopt the unique approach while structuring their logistic and supply chain management process (Stevens and Johnson 2016). The innovative process developed in this context is much useful to improvise the brand value of the product and services. Moreover, the most effective distribution strategy utilized by the organization determines the significant return on the profitability parameter. The study develops the ideas about the systematic approaches undertaken by Zara, the renowned fashion retail company, to accomplish the business goals and achieving high profitability rate. It is essential to identify the sequential and systematic approaches used by Zara that eventually led the company towards achieving success. Furthermore, the study would also discuss the method used by the company to strengthen the competitive position and maintain the long term sustainability. The comparison would be developed to identify the effectiveness of the strategic implementation that created more values for the company to retain the competitive position in current business scenario. Logistic and Supply Chain Management of Zara The continuous development in the global business scenario is developing more advanced methods of achieving profitability. Accordingly, the organizations face considerable challenges to remain competitive in this advanced world. In fact, the changing demands of the customers are also hindering the organizational functionalities. Therefore, it is noticed that the companies worldwide strive to meet the expectation level of the customer for establishing the long term sustainability (Ross 2015). Value added services are thus utilized extensively to strengthen the competitive position. Some of the organizations achieve success to develop the most innovative value added services whereas some fail to address the basic demands. Zara is one of the fastest growing fashion retail companies that have the remarkable global presence (Srinivasan and Swink 2017). It is observed that the most efficient supply chain process has led Zara towards accomplish the success much remarkably. In many of the ca ses, it has been noticed that the other apparel companies struggle with their fashion lines, which affect the brand value of the products. Zara is quite efficient in managing such hindrance by developing the most effective distribution and logistics process. This section of the study would provide the clear insights about the systematic approach undertaken by the company to develop the best supply chain management. It is notable that the sequential and efficient supply chain management of Zara is the key to achieve the competitive advantage. The company develops the following activities to manage the entire distribution and supply chain process. Synergy between the operations strategy and business The overreaching strategy of Zara is to achieve growth through vertical integrations and product diversification (Srinivasan and Swink 2017). In order to establish a unique approach, the company adapts the manufacture, couture designs, distributes, and retail clothes within two weeks of the first appearance of the clothes in the catwalk. The company promotes the idea of fast fashion, which is one of the most considerable factors for developing the remarkable brand identity. Just in time production Zara, the retail giant, offers the potential customers trendy and fashionable clothes of various tastes through an integrated and controlled process- just in time. The company keeps the in-house production amount and ensures to reserve almost 85% of the entire capacity for the in-season adjustments (Qrunfleh and Tarafdar 2014). It is also noticed that the company maintains the high level of sophistication in fabric sourcing, sewing facilities, and cutting process that are performed in headquarters in Spain. The high wages of the European workers are also quite motivating for ensuring the productive outcome. Efficient and secured inventory management Zara warehouse contains extra inventory or deadstock for the supply chain process. The company follows the lean supply management in managing all the way from the raw materials to the finished garments. The company utilizes the inventory optimization model to determine the quantity, which are to be delivered to the retail stores (Lu, 2014). The products are delivered twice in a week via shipments. The maintenance of such effective inventory process helps the company in building up the effective brand image while avoiding the unpopular stock. Commendable Distribution Network The strong distribution network of Zara enables the commendable method delivering goods to the European stores within 24 hours and to the Asian and American stores within 40 hours. This effective distribution network creates the buzz among the customers and develops the greater brand value. Successful Fast Fashion The extensive research on the brand success highlights that the company has achieved the greater success in the operation management. The cross-functional operation strategy is coupled with the sequential supply chain process, which is vertically integrated. It enables the mass production even under the push control that lead towards the well-maintained inventory system (Farahani et al., 2014). In addition to this, Zara has achieved the immense success in lower markdowns, value creation for the shareholders, and the higher profitability as well in both short and long term. The above discussion suggests that Zara, being the fashion retail giant, maintains the updated trends in cloth manufacturing process. The company has captured the leading position in offering the hottest trends and exuding the exclusive fashion segment. The most commendable logistics are yet to be explored by many of the organizations. However, the company keeps the focus on the concerned areas of the customers when they purchase any trendy garment. The updated fashion quest is the major concentration that has led the company towards establishing the most effective logistics and supply chain process. Reasons for success of Zara Zara along with Dell are the most popular and ideal examples of successful implementation of their logistics management in the world. However, there are various reasons behind the success stories of these two companies (Leonidou et al. 2013). On the other hand, Myer is having the history of failed logistic and supply chain management. Thus, in order to determine the reasons for the success of Zara and Dell, the logistic strategy of Myer will also be discussed. Distribution strategy of Zara Zara is known for their fast fashion concept. Implementation of fast fashion concept involves effective distribution and logistics strategies for them. One of the key strategies being initiated by them is the absence of intermediaries between the manufacturing units and the retail stores (Kim 2013). It helps them to manufacture the fashion items according to the recent trend that are being identified from the customers. Moreover, absence of the subsidiaries also helps Zara in involving less time in transporting the goods from the manufacturing unit to the retail stores. Thus, it helps them to offer the latest products from their stores in minimal time. Distribution strategy of Dell While, Zara relies on providing the latest fashion trend to their customers, the key objective of Dell is to provide the best quality products to the customers in least price available (Pollard, Chuo and Lee 2016). Moreover, customers are having the option of customization in order to design their product according to their specification. In this case also, Dell do not maintain any intermediaries or storing facilities, rather they directly take the specified orders from their customers and source from their suppliers accordingly. This helps them to provide customized products to their customers. Distribution strategy of Myer Apart from the distribution strategy of Zara and Dell, the distribution strategy of Myer is more conservative and traditional in nature. Myer is having Omni channel concept of marketing with having their presence in both online and offline markets. However, they follow traditional distribution strategy of having intermediaries between the manufacturing facilities and retail stores (Homburg et al. 2015). Thus, they involves more time in delivering the latest products to their customers compared to their competitors. Comparison of distribution strategies One of the key reasons of the success of Zara and Del over Myer is the customer centric approach. This is due to the reason that, distribution strategies of both Zara and Dell are customer oriented and they are flexible enough to adapt the change in the trend and requirement of the market (Borland and Lindgreen 2013). Due to not having any intermediaries, Zara manufactures the fashion items according to the latest trend and transport them quickly to their stores. On the other hand, distribution strategy of Dell is more flexible due to the reason that, they do not have the manufacturing facility (Chen, Olhager and Tang 2014). Dell is just passing the requirement of the customers to their suppliers and providing the products accordingly. However, it is not possible for Myer to quickly adapt to the change in the market due to having their own storing facilities and maintaining of huge stocks. Another reason of success for Zara is the cost leadership. Zara gains cost leadership by not having the intermediaries between their manufacturing and retail stores. Moreover, having the entire production and operational processes under same facility helps them to reduce the cost involved in transportation (Teeratansirikool et al. 2013). It helps them to increase the profitability in the market. On the other hand, Dell is gaining cost leadership by not having own manufacturing hubs. Moreover, sourcing of the materials is being done by them from different suppliers, which further segregate the price. However, distribution strategy of Myer is less flexible towards gaining cost leadership due to the reason that, they are having intermediaries, which involves more cost and time (Kurt and Zehir 2016). Moreover, the manufacturing facilities of Myer are not centralized and thus, a good cost is involved in inbound and outbound activities from their manufacturing facilities. Similarities of the distribution strategies The distribution strategies of Dell and Zara are having various similarities over Myer. One of the key similar strategies being identified between these two companies is the flexible distribution process (Qrunfleh and Tarafdar 2014). Distribution process of both the companies is flexible enough to quickly adapt with the changes in the trend and requirement of the customers. However, the distribution approach of Myer is also customer oriented, but they are not flexible enough compared to Dell and Zara. Another similar strategy being identified is the gaining of competitive advantages from the market with the help of the distribution process more than the marketing process (Czajkowska and Stasiak-Betlejewska 2015). This is due to the reason that, Dell and Zara gain competitive advantages from providing customized products and latest fashion lines respectively to the customers. However, on the other hand, various marketing activities such as pricing and offering discounts to the custome rs help Myer to attract more customers. Thus, the importance of distribution strategies is different between Dell, Zara and Myer. Implementation of successful distribution strategies The effective distribution strategies initiated by Zara and Dell can be implemented on other companies also. This is due to the reason that, in the current business scenario, majority of the business organizations are having customer oriented business approach. Thus, having the distribution process with customer centric approach will help them to adapt to the change in the market effectively (Tax, McCutcheaon and Wilkinson 2013). Moreover, the current business scenario is more competitive in nature and thus according to the porter generic strategies; cost leadership is one of the key sources of gaining competitive advantages (de Oliveira Teixeira and Werther 2013). Hence, from the initiation of the distribution strategies of Dell and Zara, contemporary business organizations will get benefited from having cost leadership in the market. Recommendations One of the key sources of gaining competitive advantages for Zara is the initiation of the sustainable development. This is due to the reason that, in the current business scenario, sustainability is one of the key issues being faced by the business organizations. Thus, having the environment friendly materials in the products will help them to create distinctive marketing activities along with enhancing the ethical impression of the brand. Thus, it will help Zara to attract more footfalls in their retail stores. Another recommended step to gain competitive advantages for Zara is outsourcing of their manufacturing facilities. In the current business scenario, outsourcing is one of the most popular concepts being practiced by the business organizations in order to gain cost leadership in the market. This is due to the reason that, outsourcing the manufacturing activities will reduce the cost of production significantly and thus, it will help Zara to enhance their profitability in the market. It is also being recommended that, market development will also be one of the key sources of gaining competitive advantages in the market. This is due to the reason that, in the present situation, Zara is having their market presence only in the metropolitan cities around the world. However, in the recent time, various cities mainly from the developing countries such as India and China are rapidly developing. Thus, it will be effective for Zara if they can have their market presence in the Tier II cities. These markets are still being untapped and being the early bird will help Zara to have the entire market for operation. Thus, this will leads to the increase in the market coverage for them along with gaining more customers base and brand exposure. Conclusion Thus, from the above discussion, it can be concluded that, Zara and Dell is having effective and efficient distribution strategies, which helps them to gain competitive advantages in the market. This report discussed about the factors that distinct Zara from their competitors in the market. One of the key reasons identified is the flexible distribution strategy of Zara, which is also similar with Dell. Distribution process of both these organizations is being designed in such a way that, it will quickly adapt to the change in the business and market requirements. Thus, they are offering products according to the recent trend in the market. This report also discussed about a few recommended steps that will further help Zara to gain competitive advantages in the market. Reference Borland, H. and Lindgreen, A., 2013. Sustainability, epistemology, ecocentric business, and marketing strategy: Ideology, reality, and vision.Journal of Business Ethics,117(1), pp.173-187. Chen, L., Olhager, J. and Tang, O., 2014. Manufacturing facility location and sustainability: A literature review and research agenda.International Journal of Production Economics,149, pp.154-163. Czajkowska, A. and Stasiak-Betlejewska, R., 2015. Quality management tools applying in the strategy of logistics services quality improvement.Serbian Journal of Management,10(2), pp.225-234. de Oliveira Teixeira, E. and Werther, W.B., 2013. Resilience: Continuous renewal of competitive advantages.Business Horizons,56(3), pp.333-342. Farahani, R.Z., Rezapour, S., Drezner, T. and Fallah, S., 2014. Competitive supply chain network design: An overview of classifications, models, solution techniques and applications.Omega,45, pp.92-118. Homburg, C., Vomberg, A., Enke, M. and Grimm, P.H., 2015. The loss of the marketing departments influence: is it really happening? And why worry?.Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science,43(1), pp.1-13. Kim, B., 2013. Competitive priorities and supply chain strategy in the fashion industry.Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal,16(2), pp.214-242. Kurt, A. and Zehir, C., 2016. The relationship between cost leadership strategy, total quality management applications and financial performance. Leonidou, L.C., Leonidou, C.N., Fotiadis, T.A. and Zeriti, A., 2013. Resources and capabilities as drivers of hotel environmental marketing strategy: Implications for competitive advantage and performance.Tourism Management,35, pp.94-110. Lu, C. (2014).Zara supply chain analysis - the secret behind Zara's retail success. [online] Tradegecko.com. Available at: https://www.tradegecko.com/blog/zara-supply-chain-its-secret-to-retail-success [Accessed 22 Jan. 2018]. Pollard, D., Chuo, S. and Lee, B., 2016. Strategies for mass customization.Journal of Business Economics Research (Online),14(3), p.101. Qrunfleh, S. and Tarafdar, M., 2014. Supply chain information systems strategy: Impacts on supply chain performance and firm performance.International Journal of Production Economics,147, pp.340-350. Qrunfleh, S. and Tarafdar, M., 2014. Supply chain information systems strategy: Impacts on supply chain performance and firm performance.International Journal of Production Economics,147, pp.340-350. Ross, D.F., 2015.Distribution Planning and control: managing in the era of supply chain management. Springer. Srinivasan, R. and Swink, M., 2017. An investigation of visibility and flexibility as complements to supply chain analytics: An organizational information processing theory perspective.Production and Operations Management. Stadtler, H., 2015. Supply chain management: An overview. InSupply chain management and advanced planning(pp. 3-28). Springer Berlin Heidelberg. Stevens, G.C. and Johnson, M., 2016. Integrating the supply chain 25 years on.International Journal of Physical Distribution Logistics Management,46(1), pp.19-42. Tax, S.S., McCutcheon, D. and Wilkinson, I.F., 2013. The service delivery network (SDN) a customer-centric perspective of the customer journey.Journal of Service Research,16(4), pp.454-470. Teeratansirikool, L., Siengthai, S., Badir, Y. and Charoenngam, C., 2013. Competitive strategies and firm performance: the mediating role of performance measurement.International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management,62(2), pp.168-184.

Monday, December 2, 2019

The challenge of presenting a balanced representation Essay Example For Students

The challenge of presenting a balanced representation Essay The challenge of presenting a balanced representation of the past through the exploration of history and memory is dealt with very differently by the two composers Mark Baker and Alexander Kimel a direct result of their varying purposes. In Bakers The Fiftieth Gate (1999), the author attempts to create a balanced account of the past (i.e. One that is true, historically and emotionally relevant), while in Kimels poem, Do I Want to Remember? (1989), the purpose is not so much in representing a balanced account of the past as it is a conscious decision to represent only the emotional and memory-oriented aspects of the past .To this end, the varying degrees to which the past is presented as balanced representations of history and memory is a direct result of the authors purpose: Bakers challenge being to accurately trace his parents lives, Kimels challenge being to record the emotional suffering of his father. We will write a custom essay on The challenge of presenting a balanced representation specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now The challenge of presenting a balanced representation of the past is combatted in Mark Bakers memoir The Fiftieth Gate by using both history and memory in conjunction using one to vindicate the other. Bakers purpose is to broaden his understanding of the Australian survivors of the Holocaust by retracing his parents lives during the Holocaust. As such, Bakers memoir is a journey towards redemption, as symbolised by the motif of gates: whoever enters the fiftieth gate sees through Gods eyes from one end of the world. The darkness and the light. The dichotomy of light and dark is used by Baker to represent the very challenge of presenting a balanced account of the past, the metaphor representing the truth and ambiguity. Thus Baker attempts to elucidate the past by using history and memory in conjunction to create a complete past, and to fill in the gaps in his knowledge. This is highlighted in Bakers appropriate of Dan Pagis poem Written in Pencil in the Seated Railway-Car, changing it so that it is pertinent to his parents story. The poem itself is unfinished, here in this carload tell him that, the result of which is a reflection of his desire to represent a whole and complete past: I am Hinda, tell him that I. Baker acknowledges the flawed nature of both history and memory, indeed this is the very reason for the challenge of presenting a balanced past. As an historian, early in the memoir, Baker has a tendency to rely more on history than memory, constantly using lists and historical documents to validate the past, such as Graetzs Geschitche der Juden, and the use of his grandparents wedding certificate. The result of this however is a lack of emotion: history by itself cannot explain the torment of a child forced to live in darkness for two years, or the anguish of a thirteen year old forced to watch his mother taken to be gassed. To this end, history is represented as cold and clinical: what are these sheets of paper anyway except echoes of the past, dark shadows without screams. This over-reliance on his tory leads to conflict with his parents, as seen in the constant use of the clinical onomatopoeic refrain of tak tak tak and Left. Right. Left. Right to demonstrate the objectivity inherent in history. Bakers parents berate his use of fecks, and indeed he himself admits his shame in having doubted his parents memories. Thus by demonstrating the clinical nature of historical sources, Baker shows the challenges of presenting a balanced representation of the past. Baker also demonstrates this difficulty in the nature of memory, which is portrayed as ambiguous and prone to fault. This can be seen most clearly in memorys degradation as a result of age, disease and time. For instance, Bakers grandfather suffers from dementia, resulting in difficulties in procuring information from him. This is explored further in Bakers doubts over his mothers past: as the only survivor of an Aktion in the obscure Polish town of Bolzsowce, verifying the past is made near impossible. Indeed this is reflected in his mothers low modality: maybe I forgot.: Baker suggests that memory must be aided, his way of achieving a balanced representation of the past. .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 , .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .postImageUrl , .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 , .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12:hover , .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12:visited , .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12:active { border:0!important; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12:active , .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12 .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc643c880a138e01dee20089085191f12:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Metternich The Leader EssayHis father Joes memory is part of a collective whole, with the place names of Auschwitz and Treblinka metonymically serving to represent the shared memories of other survivors: the next terrifying chapter jumped at him like a jack-in-the-box. Thus Baker suggests that memory requires historical validation to metaphorically release the torrent whose flow went backwards into his darkest might. This metaphor serves to show the extent to which memory is an emotive force, Baker also using olfactory imagery in pungent odour of fresh vomit and faeces and aural imagery in screaming sound of shots to demonstrate the aspects of the past that historical reco rd cannot present. Thus Baker deals with the challenge of presenting ag balanced representation of the past by amalgamating history and memory into one accurate representation of the past. This can be seen in the visit to Buchenwald with Joe, in which Joes memory supplies some detail, while Bakers historical interjection provide other details. To this end, Joe provides the emotional responses (a great noise. Hurrah!) while Baker verifies this with objective facts (10:30am on 11 April 1945). The triumph of truthful representation is presented in the Buchenwald Ball, where they danc, not there, but in spite of there, in defiance of then, in celebration of now, in memory of them. Therefore it is clear that Baker in The Fiftieth Gate uses both history and memory to deal with the challenge of presenting a balanced representation of the past. This challenge is dealt with somewhat differently by Alexander Kimel in his poem about his fathers time in a concentration camp, Do I Want to remember?. Kimels purpose is not to present a balanced account of the past, but to deliberately ignore historical fact and create a homage to his fathers life. He stresses the importance of remembering emotions not facts, thus intentionally creating an unbalanced account of the past. Kimel uses the refrain of Do I Want to remember? at the head of every stanza, the repetition of this rhetorical question serving to highlight the necessity, and difficulty, of recording memory as well as history. The refrain of I cannot forget which ends every stanza is also used to reflect the ability of an omnipresent memory to remain forever, thus creating a legacy. To this end Kimel is very selective of the past, intentionally stressing what he sees as important and interesting in his fathers life. His text is reflective, not didactic like Baker. Like Baker however, he uses graphic imagery to stress the emotions and subjectivity of the past that history cannot hope to portray: faces of mothers carved with pain. Kimel also uses the metaphor of shadows on swollen legs to demonstrate the atrocities experienced by his father, and thus the necessity he sees in recording only his fathers memories of the past, an unbalanced account. Kimel presents this unbalanced account due to his distrust and skepticism of the nature of history. He repeatedly refers to history as numbers scrawled on a page, suggesting that history without memory creates a history in which there is nothing personal: no not people, numbers. This belief is reflected in his intense desire to record the past, his subversion of the refrains in the final stanza showing this. Kimel says, Do I want to remember the world upside down?: concluding that Yes. And I will never let you forget, which serves to show both the need of Kimels to portray a purely emotional and memory based recreation of the past, as well as the moral imperative that survivors have to pass on their legacy. This is shown in the shift to the second person narration, which suggests that the audience too should be considering the nature of history, and the necessity of emotional content. Furthermore, Kimel uses the metaphor of history as sandpaper and memory as silk, to portray his very intentional ignorance of history. Therefore unlike Baker, Kimel does not attempt to create a balanced representation of the past, instead making a conscious decision to stress the importance of memory, and the emotions that only memory can convey. .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a , .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .postImageUrl , .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a , .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a:hover , .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a:visited , .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a:active { border:0!important; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a:active , .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u59e124c038d2b55d43e71d114f2ed47a:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: The Road Not Taken EssayIn conclusion, the challenge of presenting a balanced representation of the past is reflected in the texts of both Mark Baker and Alexander Kimel, Baker suggesting the necessity of a combination of history and memory to create an interpretation of the past that is accurate, Kimel suggesting that only memory need be used to create a past that is emotionally viable. Very assured voice Good focus on question Unfortunately, you begin Baker (after your treatment of the epigraph) most obscurely. The Pagis section is unclear and feels muddled/muddling. And its a rather minor way to start the text! This quickly gathers momentum, though and becomes far more effective Try to use the words represent, presentation in conjunction with the specific events, situations, personalities youre exploring in your examples Keep key words clear as part of your argument. Your second paragraph on Baker essentially ignores the idea of a challenge. You end your treatment of the text in the next paragraph well. The poem is treated very well and the links to Baker are pertinent and illuminating. Challenge is lost. There appears to be no challenge for Kimel and this should have been stressed, further in relation to his thoughts about historical documentation/discourse.

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

5 Ways to Get Back on Track After the Holidays

5 Ways to Get Back on Track After the Holidays It’s the first workday in January. You’re back at your desk after a rough back-to-normal commute, and you may even be a wee bit hungover from New Year’s shenanigans (we don’t judge). Your office will be back to business-as-usual, which means you need to be too. Here are some ways to make that transition from Holiday You back to Everyday You with minimal stress and fuss. 1. Don’t expect to go full-throttle at 9 a.m.Remember, many of your officemates will be in the same situation, easing back to normal after travel or down time. It’s likely that no one is interested in a 9 a.m. meeting or expects you to have everything sorted and addressed right away. Before you even get to work, think about what you want to accomplish that first day back. Pick one or two main goals for your day. If you have standard daily tasks, give yourself a little more time to do those so that you can get used to the routine again.2. Do some triage before you dive in.Inste ad of responding to emails in the order they came in while you were out, dig through your inbox first. Urgent, red-exclamation-point emails should get priority of course, but after that figure out what needs to be addressed right now versus items that can wait until later in the day (or even tomorrow). This way you’ll get some control over your day, instead of being a slave to the inbox.3. Schedule some breaks.Even if it’s five minutes to grab a coffee or just to take a quick walk, make sure you’ve given yourself the opportunity to take breathers. Don’t tether yourself to your desk for eight hours. If possible (and it’s not too cold), step outside for some fresh air, especially around lunchtime.4. Bring a snack.This might sound a little juvenile, but it’s just as valid for adults as for kids. If your workplace is anything like mine, the place has been full of candy and holiday treats for the past month. Now that the holidays are over, the of fice will likely go back to being a sad, candy-less place. Yet your brain and your body may have become conditioned to get treats at various points during the day, so bringing a small snack to keep at your desk can help calm those expectations of goodies. Double bonus points if you pack something healthy.5. Try to leave on time.Unless there’s a very specific project or reason to stay beyond your normal work hours, peace out on time- especially on the first few days back. This can help you mentally reset your routine. Plus, it sets a boundary for the upcoming year, especially if work-life balance was one of your resolutions.The first day back can be a challenge. Remember that you’re not alone, and there are things you can do to make it easier on yourself. There’s no need to be a hero on day one. After all, it’s a long way until the next big holiday weekend! Aiming for â€Å"calm and productive† is a solid start to 2016.

Saturday, November 23, 2019

The National Popular Vote Plan to Bypass the Electoral College

The National Popular Vote Plan to Bypass the Electoral College The Electoral College system - the way we really elect our president - has always had its detractors and lost even more public support after the 2016 election, when it became apparent that President-Elect  Donald Trump might have lost the nationwide popular vote to Sec. Hillary Clinton, but won the electoral vote to become the 45th  Ã¢â‚¬â€¹President of the United States. Now, the states are considering the National Popular Vote plan, a system that, while not doing away with the Electoral College system, would modify it to ensure that the candidate winning the national popular vote is ultimately elected president. What is the National Popular Vote Plan? The National Popular Vote plan is a bill passed by participating state legislatures agreeing that they will cast all of their electoral votes for the presidential candidate winning the nationwide popular vote. If enacted by enough states, the National Popular Vote bill would guarantee the presidency to the candidate who receives the most popular votes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. How the National Popular Vote Plan Would Work To take effect, the National Popular Vote bill must be enacted by the state legislatures of states controlling a total of 270 electoral votes - a majority of the overall 538 electoral votes and the number currently required to elect a president. Once enacted, the participating states would cast all of their electoral votes for the presidential candidate winning the nationwide popular vote, thus ensuring that candidate the required 270 electoral votes. (See: Electoral Votes by State) The National Popular Vote plan would eliminate what critics of the Electoral College system point to as the winner-take-all rule - the awarding all of a states electoral votes to the candidate who receives the most popular votes in that state. Currently, 48 of the 50 states follow the winner-take-all rule. Only Nebraska and Maine do not. Because of the winner-take-all rule, a candidate can be elected president without winning the most popular votes nationwide. This has occurred in 4 of the nations 56 presidential elections, most recently in 2000.The National Popular Vote plan does not do away with the Electoral College system, an action that would require a constitutional amendment. Instead, it modifies the winner-take-all rule in a way its supporters say would assure that every vote will matter in every state in every presidential election. Is the National Popular Vote Plan Constitutional? Like most issues involving politics, the U.S. Constitution is largely silent on the political issues of presidential elections. This was the intent of the Founding Fathers. The Constitution specifically leaves details like how the electoral votes are cast up to the states. According to Article II, Section 1, Each State shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors, equal to the whole Number of Senators and Representatives to which the State may be entitled in the Congress. As a result, an agreement between a group of states to cast all of their electoral votes in a similar manner, as proposed by the National Popular Vote plan passes constitutional muster. The winner-take-all rule is not required by the Constitution and was actually used by only three states in the nations first presidential election in 1789. Today, the fact that Nebraska and Maine do not use the winner-take-all system serves as proof that modifying the Electoral College system, as proposed by the National Popular Vote plan is constitutional and does not require a constitutional amendment. Where the National Popular Vote Plan Stands Currently, the National Popular Vote bill has been passed in a total of 35 state legislative chambers in 23 states. It has been fully enacted into law in 11 states controlling 165 electoral votes: CA, DC, HI, IL, MA, MD, NJ, NY, RI, VT, and WA. The National Popular Vote bill will take effect when enacted into law by states possessing 270 electoral votes - a majority of the current 538 electoral votes. As a result, the bill will take effect when enacted by states possessing an additional 105 electoral votes. To date, the bill has passed at least one legislative chamber in 10 states possessing 82 electoral votes: AR, AZ, CT, DE, ME, MI, NC, NV, OK, and OR. In The bill has been passed by both legislative chambers - but not in the same year - by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, controlling a combined 14 electoral votes. In addition, the bill has been unanimously approved at the committee level in the states of Georgia and Missouri, controlling a combined 27 electoral votes. Over the years, the National Popular Vote bill has been introduced in the legislatures of all 50 states. Prospects for Enactment After the 2016 presidential election, political science expert Nate Silver wrote that, since the swing states are not likely to support any plan that might reduce their influence over control of the White House, the National Popular Vote bill will not succeed unless the predominately Republican â€Å"red states† adopt it. As of September 2017, the bill has been fully adopted only by predominately Democratic â€Å"blue states† which delivered the 14 largest vote shares for Barack Obama in the 2012 Presidential Election.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Conceptual Issues in Evolutionary Archaeology Research Paper

Conceptual Issues in Evolutionary Archaeology - Research Paper Example Jones is mainly recognized because of the many films he has acted, some of which include: Last crusade, Lost Ark Raiders and Temple of Doom among others (Winterhalder & Eric, 2000). In understanding the character of Indiana Jones, these films depict some of the traits that make him have a great influence over the people. Most of these films have similar plots, presenting the ways which Indy employs to prevent Hitler’s hands from holding the biblical artifacts. For instance, the movie that explains how the covenant ark was lost is a controversial story, by first trying to understand if the ark existed in the first place. Scholars have ever since tried to explain the whereabouts of the ark, but they have not yet come up with valuable conclusions to the issue (Bentley & Herbert, 2001). Some say it was carried to Canaan while others say that it was destroyed in Babylon.Another movie that approaches archeology in a better way is Last Crusade. It similarly explores another treasure in the bible- Holy Grail (Arnold & Nancy, 2001). This treasure like the ark has numerous stories surrounding its history. People have no clear idea of its existence, and where it finally went to. Some people claim that Arimathea Joseph carried the Grail to France with him, and this claims triggered Nazi to start his Grail search. In the movie, Jones acts brilliantly during their travel, by making marks on the way which in turn give him clues that guide him to the final resting place of the Grail.... His theoretical diversity in many of the movies he has acted, portray him as a real archeologist from the way he dresses to the way he presents himself. Processual archaeology presents three perspectives that we can employ in studying Indiana Jones: evolutionary ecology which predicts human behaviors in their ecological contexts, and evaluates their behaviors using ethnographic and archaeological data. Secondly, there is behavioral archaeology which focuses on when, where and how human behavior relates to material cultures. Arnold & Nancy (2001) explain that there is the Darwinian archaeology perspective that tries to reconcile Darwinian Theory and other scientific explanations of evolution. On the other hand, the postprocessual perspective comes up with criticisms of the early studies. Literature Review Postprocessual Archeology Postprocessualists are opposed to the ideas of science as the only source of knowledge. They generally classify scientific studies into non-positivist perce ptions with no basis (Johnson, 2010). For instance, these people claim that the empirical studies done by science are not satisfactory enough, since they do not have sufficient fundamental facts. According to the postprocessualists, we have active individuals hence, they do not agree with the views of archeologists who make individuals to be lost in their theories. They thus advocate for individuals to be active instead of following blindly the social norms and values that are presented to them. They then emphasize on agency as a tool of active individuals (Hegmon, 2003 & Hurt & Rakita, 2001). Focusing on their understanding, one can conclude that they urge archaeologists to consider rules that can be changed creatively by social

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Human Biology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Human Biology - Assignment Example Based on the significant evolutionary development that have taken place in on earth, the organisms that have contributed a lot the evolutionary changes are the simple organisms. According to Darwin’s theory, multi-cellular and high organisms are thought to have evolved from simple organisms (Darwin, 1859). Indeed, it could be argued that such simple organisms continue to undergo evolution, considering the emergence of new strains of viruses and bacteria that threaten human health. For example, it is widely concurred that Malaria causative agents have noticeably evolved to become drug resistant. The new exotic organisms are accompanied by far-reaching implication on the ecosystems. In the most common way, these organisms have altered food chains and food webs through increased competition, as well as their harmful activities on the environment. The impact of such organism to human beings can also be speculated based on the food web relationships. If one component on the food web is altered or threatened, the impact is transferred to the rest of the organisms in the ecosystems, including human beings. The impact may always be direct, but comes with profound consequences, such introduction of toxins to the environment, which gets to the human body through the food chains (Cronon, 2005). Becoming a vegetarian has also some implications on the environment. One is that vegetable dependency deprives the ecosystems the primary producer capacity to cater for the ecosystem needs, such as carbon dioxide recapture. Secondly, over-reliance on vegetables could harmful because it concentrates only certain form of energy in the body, which could be harmful. Lastly, vegetables alone are not adequate for a balanced diet. One misses out essential nutrient such as animal proteins that are crucial for the body functioning. The most convenient sources of energy are hydroelectric power. Currently, a lot of emphasis is being laid on green energy

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Recruitment and Selection Strategies Recommendations Essay Example for Free

Recruitment and Selection Strategies Recommendations Essay Recruiting for Landslide Limousine Services requires multiple strategies. Confining the company on strategy will immensely decrease the chances of finding quality, skilled applicants with the appropriate attitude towards their position. Recruiting begins with locating potential applicants and enticing them to the company. Advertisements are good, especially for a new company. Another source of applicants is the CDL classes and other limousine companies previous employees. Once a suitable selection of applicants is established the interviewing process begins. The applications are carefully reviewed, along with a background check. This is important because the employees are dealing with high society at times, and it is a commercial driving business. Employees must not have been arrested at any point for certain offenses, especially vehicle or theft related. Once a more refined selection has been made from the written applications formal interviews are next. Formal, face-to-face interviews allow the hiring manager to evaluate ones attitude. The attitude can decide if an applicant would be a good fit for the company and help to raise their image, while a bad attitude would eliminate any customer contact. According to our readings, when conducting an interview certain steps should be followed to ensure the most is gained on both sides other desk. 1) Standard questions, with flexibility is delivery (can be asked in different ways) 2) Set a time and place 3) Pay attention to applicant’s answers and body language. The reason these steps are important is because they provide a uniform method for each applicant. They provide the ability to alter the interview to each individual applicant. Another issue is to make sure not to promise the position to an individual during the interview before reviewing each of the interviews and applications. Some of the areas to pay attention to are an  applicant’s appearance, character, communication styles and habits, intellect, education level, knowledge of the position or craft, special talents, and the potential of furthering their development. The final selection of candidates consists of creating an analysis containing the information gathered during the interview, including the background check, driving records, and their application. This will allow the manager to carefully evaluate and compare each candidate, choosing the most appropriate for the positions available. Workplace Diversity The changes in societies demographics are evident as globalization becomes more common, which creates a more diverse work environment. Managing a diverse workforce will present various advantages (new perspectives on process) as well as challenges (cultural or language barriers). Some of the advantages of hiring a diverse staff are the new outlooks and perspectives of each situation. It will also help Landslide Limousine to cater to clients coming from other countries; the staff member from that area could provide tips on how to better serve the client in a manner that will not be unintentionally disrespectful. Demographics The demographic makeup of Austin Texas, according to US Census Bureau, is mostly white Americans and Latino and Hispanic. The general population, estimated in 2012, is almost 843,000 individuals with an average income of $31,000 a year, and an average of over 80,000 businesses (US Dept. of Commerce, 2014). Keeping this in mind, diversity within Landslide Limousine will not be an issue. According to the average income, holidays and special events will be the most likely first regular busy seasons. Once the reputation grows among the businesses in the area so will the company. This means that Mr. Stonefield must obey the laws pertaining to the varying cultures in the area. Some of the laws important considered for Mr. Stonefield to consider are the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination based on religion, color, sex or origin. This is law is particularly applicable to workplaces employing more than 15 people (EEOC, 2013). The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967- protects employees from discrimination on the basis  of age. Both private and public employers need to adhere to the provisions of the law which calls for eliminating discrimination of employees above the age of forty (EEOC, 2013). The Americans Act with Disabilities Act of 1990 prohibits discrimination in hiring competent persons with disabilities, for public and private employers (EEOC, 2013). Organizational Branding Creating an organizational brand is crucial in creating awareness of the company and recognition associated with the logo and the quality of service. The point of a brand is to create an emotional connection tying consumers to a brand preference. What this means, is that as consumers, some people prefer a specific brand, or level of brand. Organizational branding creates that perception of the company that resonates with consumers who desire only the best; this directs them to or away from your brand. This branding is first achieved by word-of-mouth from employees, friends, and family. As business gains clientele, they will begin to spread their impression of the company. The goal is to ensure that both the employees and the clients are creating the same impression. Each company has their own design to represent their company. This not only provides an image that Landslide Limousine services wants to promote, but it is a reminder of that goal and source of pride for any company owner. Branding methods are as diverse as society and are limitless; but they also set the standard by which to company wishes to operate. Landslide Limousine Services is an interesting name which should make picking a brand less difficult. The more interesting, with a play on words or an image depicting a desired outcome would be really good choices. Interviewing After applicants have submitted his or her application and each application, is carefully reviewed a formal interview must follows. Conducting formal interviews are important because it will assist the hiring manager and the applicant the opportunity to evaluate the positions working conditions. According to, the text interviews are known as scheduled communication. When conducting the proper interview it is important to follow the following steps (Cascio, 2013). Have a comprehensive list of questions to ask applicant in a flexible method. Prepare for the interview and select a  designated time in a quiet location. Pay close attention to applicants and listen to his or he answers with an opened mind. It is important to avoid interruptions and answering the phone when conducting a formal interview. It is also important to avoid making promises to potential applicants including promising applicants that someone will contact them with the results. If promised it is proper to do so to avoid misrepresenting or misleading the applicant. In addition to conducting a proper interview it is necessary to evaluate the following, Appearance Character Communication Intellect Education Knowledge Talents Potential for furthering his or her development and determination References: Cascio, W. F. (2013). Managing Human Resources: Productivity, Quality of Work Life, Profits (9th ed.) Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill/Irwin EEOC, (2013). Discrimination by Type. Retrieved from http://www.eeoc.gov/laws/types/index.cfm US Department of Commerce, (7th January, 2014). State and country quick facts; Austin (city), Texas. US Department of Commerce – Census. Retrieved from http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/48/4805000.html

Friday, November 15, 2019

Where the Boys Arent Essay -- Education

Education in the United States was largely of the single-sex (SS) variety until the mid 1800s; that single sex was male. Gradually, coeducational schools became the rule and the passage of Title IX of the Education Act of 1972 was a concrete step toward insuring that gender equality would be the norm in all government-supported schools (Anfara & Mertens, 2008; Halpern et al., 2011; Johnson, 2004). A major change took place in 2001 when Congress passed the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLBA). An amendment to the act authorized school to use federal money to create innovative programs including SS classes (Dee, 2006; Johnson, 2004). The amendment was co-sponsored or supported by five female senators, namely, Kay Bailey Hutchinson, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Susan Collins, Barbara Mikulski (Johnson, 2004), and Diane Feinstein (Meyer, 2008) and approved unanimously by the Senate (Johnson, 2004). A reinterpretation of Title IX was issued in 2006 promulgating a set of federal guidelines under which SS classes would be legally permitted (Anfara & Mertens, 2008; Halpern et al., 2011; Johnson, 2004; Novotney, 2011; Rex & Chadwell, 2009). The following were required: (a) be based on attaining a stated educational goal or providing diversity, (b) be wholly voluntary, (c) be implemented even handedly, (d) be substantially equal for both sexes, and (e) be reviewed at least biennially (Johnson, 2004; Rex & Chadwell, 2009). Since these changes have been implemented there has been a veritable explosion of new SS classes implemented. As of the 2007-2008 school year, 97 SS public schools and 295 SS classes have been started (Billger, 2009). In South Carolina alone, the number of schools offering SS classes jumped from 30 in 200... ... K., & Smith, M. (2005). Single-sex versus coeducational schooling: A Systematic Review (2005-01). Retrieved from U. S. Department of Education: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/opepd/reports.html Meyer, P. (2008). Learning separately: The case for single-sex schools. Education Next, 8(1), 11-21. Retrieved from www.educationnext.org/learning-separately/ Novotney, A. (2011). Coed versus single-sex ed. Monitor on Psychology, 42(2). Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/02/coed.aspx Rex, J., & Chadwell, D. (2009). Single-gender classrooms. The School Administrator, 66(8), 28-33. Retrieved from http://www.aasa.org Wolfgang, B. (2011, September 2). Boys in one class, girls in another at more schools;Single-sex option grows, but some still skeptical. The Washington Times , p. 7. Retrieved from http://www.lexisnexis.com.proxy1.ncu.edu/hottopics/lnacademic/

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

The Korean War

Korea, recovering from the Korean war and getting rid of the Japanese colonization since the mid-20th, welcome its social upheaval. This tumultuous change not only is presented in social life but also related to the perspectives and values of the public. For instance, women have wakened up to seek their status in this society and rights to pursue their ideal lives; as the time goes by, the culture-encounter has become a normalcy. On top of that, nothing could better than the film industry to reflect the realistic Korean society in this era via an artistic method. The revolution of the filmmaking also brings an underlying information about the postwar Korea. † Madame Freedom† is a film which resonates with the majorities of women and brings a profound meaning ever since it was released. Besides, the novel arrangement of plots also broaden the eyes of the public and it is worthwhile to refer to. Madame Freedom was released in 1956, it fixated on the life of a woman who married to a university professor. Unlike the heroine in the previous Korean cinema, the main character —Son-Yong is a housewife who has a desire for pursuing her life. Not surprisingly, she has an affair with her boss and meets her neighbor secretly. Not to mention heroin, each female character in this film has their unusual lives. Such as office lady admires her teacher, up-middle class women pursue financial independence and modern girl dating with a foreigner to study English. These various female are epitomes of Korean in mid-20th. As we know, the surrender of Japan represents the ending of the Japanese colonization. However, Korea was controlled by the other power after coming of American one month later. From 1948 until 1992, Korea was in a political chaos and the first republic happened from 1948 to 1960. Under the power of the Lee Sung Man, civil war seems inevitable then. After the Korean War, South Korea kept accepting the financial support from the U.S while there was no conspicuous progress. However, with the contact with the Western world increasing, filmmaking got the underlying influence from the western half-formulated genre of movie and the contentious film â€Å"Madame Freedom† came out. According to the papers of several scholars, the reason why this movie could be one-of-kind is not only its innovational arrangement of plots but also the metaphor of each scenario. All in all, it is the historical background entrusting the elusive meaning to this movie.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Radio Shack Compensation Problem Essay

RadioShack is one of the largest electronic chain stores across America. They employ up to 34,000 employees and according to their corporate website (www.radidoschack.com) they offer the â€Å"Complete Package : Incredible work environment, highly qualified employees and competitive compensation , including upon hire: paid time off , merchandise and wireless discounts, credit union, career progression , continued learning and development , educational discounts ,401(k) Plan. Medical, Dental and Vision Plans Flexible Spending Accounts, Life/AD&D Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability. This all sounds great, they offer things we all look for in an employer ; a competitive compensation and perks. So how does this huge corporation become rated number 3 top worst places to work for? The Problem According to 24/7 Wall St, they examined employee reviews at online job site Glassdoor.com. To make the cut of worst company, companies need to have a minimum of 300 reviews. Based on these ratings, 24/7 Wall St. identified RadioShack as the number 3 worst company to work for. Any company receiving a score of 2.7 or lower, ranks them in the bottom 10% of the 202 companies they measured. RadioShack rating was 2.4 and has 560 reviews. Reviewers were consistently unhappy about the retailer’s sales commission structure and the long hours. The reviews also indicated that the company limits commissions to certain products, instead of paying based on sales. â€Å"Over the years compensation has turned into a big joke. You MUST perform in all metrics (service plans, batteries, cell phones, etc) to get any sort of bonus as an associate.† stated a former RadioShack employee. (www.glassdoor.com) Conclusion These remarks paint a completely different picture than what is listed on the corporate career web page. In my paper, my focus will be on the challenging monetary compensation of the company and to offer strategies on how to improve this problem.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Free Essays on Medieval

The Renaissance was the age of creativity, experimentation, and discovery. A new age was beginning but every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end. This new age started right after the Dark Ages. The goal of the Renaissance period was to revive the lost wisdom, art, and culture. The humanists not only wanted to bring these aspects of life back, but also to start reconstructing their present culture along classical lines. The Renaissance period took place from 1265 AD to 1633 AD. The Middle Ages were coming to a close and a new age was beginning. Italy was at the center of intense creativity we now call the Renaissance, meaning â€Å"rebirth†. The Italian humanists were inspired by the classical works of Greece and Rome. The Italian humanists revived this type of culture and took it in as a new way of looking at the world. The rediscovery of their classical past helped to give Europeans a new sense of history as well as of their own capabilities. Many thinkers were now turning away and becoming less occupied with saving souls and avoiding temptation. The thinkers of this time dedicated themselves to exploring people’s individuality and educating them in their duties to society. This became the movement known as Humanism. At the same time, artists celebrated the beauty of the human body, in more lifelike paintings and sculptures, architecture, and discovering new ways to accomplish tasks. Many great accomplishments came out of the Renaissance period. Some prime examples are the Sistine Chapel, the plays of William Shakespeare, and the uniting of two kingdoms to form Spain. The Renaissance Era was the beginning of creativity, experimentation, and discovery after the Dark Ages.... Free Essays on Medieval Free Essays on Medieval The Renaissance was the age of creativity, experimentation, and discovery. A new age was beginning but every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end. This new age started right after the Dark Ages. The goal of the Renaissance period was to revive the lost wisdom, art, and culture. The humanists not only wanted to bring these aspects of life back, but also to start reconstructing their present culture along classical lines. The Renaissance period took place from 1265 AD to 1633 AD. The Middle Ages were coming to a close and a new age was beginning. Italy was at the center of intense creativity we now call the Renaissance, meaning â€Å"rebirth†. The Italian humanists were inspired by the classical works of Greece and Rome. The Italian humanists revived this type of culture and took it in as a new way of looking at the world. The rediscovery of their classical past helped to give Europeans a new sense of history as well as of their own capabilities. Many thinkers were now turning away and becoming less occupied with saving souls and avoiding temptation. The thinkers of this time dedicated themselves to exploring people’s individuality and educating them in their duties to society. This became the movement known as Humanism. At the same time, artists celebrated the beauty of the human body, in more lifelike paintings and sculptures, architecture, and discovering new ways to accomplish tasks. Many great accomplishments came out of the Renaissance period. Some prime examples are the Sistine Chapel, the plays of William Shakespeare, and the uniting of two kingdoms to form Spain. The Renaissance Era was the beginning of creativity, experimentation, and discovery after the Dark Ages....

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Biography of Fannie Lou Hamer, Civil Rights Leader

Biography of Fannie Lou Hamer, Civil Rights Leader Known for her civil rights activism, Fannie Lou Hamer was called the spirit of the civil rights movement. Born a sharecropper, she worked from the age of six as a timekeeper on a cotton plantation. Later, she became involved in the Black Freedom Struggle and eventually moved on to become a field secretary for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).   Dates:  October 6, 1917 - March 14, 1977Also known as:  Fannie Lou Townsend Hamer About Fannie Lou Hamer Fannie Lou Hamer, born in Mississippi, was working in the fields when she was six and was only educated through the sixth grade. She married in 1942 and adopted two children. She went to work on the plantation where her husband drove a tractor, first as a field worker and then as the plantations timekeeper. She also attended meetings of the Regional Council of Negro Leadership, where speakers addressed self-help, civil rights, and voting rights. Field Secretary With the SNCC In 1962, Fannie Lou Hamer volunteered to work with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) registering black voters in the South. She and the rest of her family lost their jobs for her involvement, and SNCC hired her as a field secretary. She was able to register to vote for the first time in her life in 1963 and then taught others what theyd need to know to pass the then-required literacy test. In her organizing work, she often led the activists in singing Christian hymns about freedom: This Little Light of Mine and others. She helped organize the 1964 Freedom Summer in Mississippi, a campaign sponsored by SNCC, Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), and the NAACP. In 1963, after being charged with disorderly conduct for refusing to go along with a restaurants whites only policy, Hamer was beaten so badly in jail, and refused medical treatment, that she was permanently disabled. Founding Member and VP of the MFDP Because African Americans were excluded from the Mississippi Democratic Party, the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP) was formed, with Fannie Lou Hamer as a founding member and vice president. The MFDP sent an alternate delegation to the 1964 Democratic National Convention, with 64 black and 4 white delegates. Fannie Lou Hamer testified to the conventions Credentials Committee about violence and discrimination faced by black voters trying to register to vote, and her testimony was televised nationally. The MFDP refused a compromise offered to seat two of their delegates and returned to further political organizing in Mississippi, and in 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act. Delegate to the Democratic National Convention of 1972 From 1968 to 1971, Fannie Lou Hamer was a member of the Democratic National Committee for Mississippi. Her 1970 lawsuit, Hamer v. Sunflower County, demanded school desegregation. She ran unsuccessfully for the Mississippi state Senate in 1971, and successfully for delegate to the Democratic National Convention of 1972. Other Accomplishments She also lectured extensively, and was known for a signature line she often used, Im sick and tired of being sick and tired. She was known as a powerful speaker, and her singing voice lent another power to civil rights meetings. Fannie Lou Hamer brought a Head Start program to her local community, to form a local Pig Bank cooperative (1968) with the help of the National Council of Negro Women, and later to found the Freedom Farm Cooperative (1969). She helped found the National Womens Political Caucus in 1971, speaking for the inclusion of racial issues in the feminist agenda. In 1972 the Mississippi House of Representatives passed a resolution honoring her national and state activism, passing 116 to 0. Suffering from breast cancer, diabetes, and heart problems, Fannie Lou Hamer died in Mississippi in 1977. She had published To Praise Our Bridges: An Autobiography in 1967. June Jordan published a biography of Fannie Lou Hamer in 1972, and Kay Mills published This Little Light of Mine: The Life of Fannie Lou Hamer in 1993. Background, Family Father: Jim TownsendMother: Ella Townsendyoungest of 20 childrenborn in Montgomery County, Mississippi; family moved when she was two to Sunflower County, Mississippi Education Hamer attended the segregated school system in Mississippi, with a short school year to accommodate fieldwork as a child of a sharecropping family. She dropped out by 6th grade.   Marriage, Children Husband: Perry Pap Hamer (married 1942; tractor driver)Children (adopted): Dorothy Jean, Vergie Ree Religion Baptist Organizations Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP), National Womens Political Caucus (NWPC), others

Sunday, November 3, 2019

The Role of Recreational Literacy in the Knowledge Acquisition of a Ho Essay

The Role of Recreational Literacy in the Knowledge Acquisition of a Hotel Manager - Essay Example The average person has so many options to choose for in terms of upgrading his knowledge about specific events that are relevant to his or her life. Due to this, literacy is not restricted only to the traditional classroom learning or the supervisory systems where institutions controlled the flow of information to different parts of the society. This the existence of recreational literacy as an alternative source of enlightenment has affected different units of the society including the hotel industry. Recreational literacy is defined by Mackey as â€Å"engagements with texts of all kinds that are undertaken entirely for their own sake, for the pleasure of the engagement and not for any utilitarian outcome† (2007 6). Thus it refers to reading and update of information by individuals without a view of getting a qualification or some recognition from it. The whole idea of idea of recreational literacy refers to the acquisition of knowledge by self-motivated individuals mainly through unconscious efforts. This influences the way an individual thinks, although it might not be in a very structured system. Due to the unconsciousness and the gradualist system, recreational literacy affects the way people think and perceive organizations. Due to this, recreational literacy affects the way a hotel manager goes about his/her work. Since I desire to become a hotel manager, I will examine the literacy practices of the hotel management industry and attempt to find out the rate at which recreational literacy has had an influence on the sector. In effect, the paper will examine how recreational literacies are currently transforming learning and communication in hotel management. The paper will proceed by first examining the concept of recreational literacy into greater depth. It will go on to examine the main literacy structures in the hotel management industry. From there, it will explain how the hotel industry is being changed by recreational literacies by interviewing a resource person who has first-hand knowledge of these trends in the industry.     Ã‚  

Friday, November 1, 2019

Madeleine Leininger -transcultural nursing theory model Research Paper

Madeleine Leininger -transcultural nursing theory model - Research Paper Example major reason leading her to forming the theory was her clinical specialist caring experience with children who were mildly disturbed and came from varied backgrounds (Allauigan, 2011). Factors like lack of doctor support, inadequate training, work burden and severity of illness of patients lead to elevated stress levels of nurses, which in turn leads to improper care of patients. Positive attitude results from holistic nursing approach, older age, and support, but negativity results from the load of work on the nurse (Kluit & Goosesns, 2011). The research will add to the literature of nursing theories. The research will aim at understanding a direct relationship between high levels of stress at work environment and the elevated negativity of attitude due to the stress. Keeping the theory of Trans-cultural nursing theory, it will also address the correlation that the negativity of attitude from nurses has on the recovery of children. The research will aim at the effects that cultural diversity has on the recovery rate of children, allowing for nurses to cater for those factors to aid in recovery. Allauigan, D. (2011). Theory Development and Historical Background. Leininger’s Theory of Culture Care. Retrieved January 1, 2013. Available at: http://nursingtheories.blogspot.com/2011/07/leiningers-theory-of-culture-care.html Kluit, V.D & Gossesns, (2011). Factors influencing attitudes of nurses in general health care toward patients with comorbid mental illness: an integrative literature review. Issues Ment Health Nurs. 32(8):519-27. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21767254. Abstract Retrieved at January 1, 2013. Sitzman, K., & Eichelberger, L.W., (2012). Madeleine Leininger’s Culture Care: Diversity and Universality Theory. Understanding the Work of Nurse Theorists, A Creative Beginning. Jones and Bartlett Publishers:

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE for DRAMA OF DIVERSITY class, about these 2 Statement

PERSPECTIVE for DRAMA OF DIVERSITY class, about these 2 questions When did you first notice that you were different fr - Personal Statement Example I always felt that it was my moral obligation to help out others. I have probably given over 100 tutoring sessions in my lifetime free of charge. To me helping others was a truly gratifying experience. Back when I was 12 years old I would always play basketball during lunchtime and after school. I would practice alone for hours upon hours because I loved the game. My teachers always told me that I was a very special student. I have always loved reading about different subjects. When the internet became popular back in the 1990’s I became a more sophisticated student due to the fact that the internet provided me with an unlimited source of information. Since I was very young I was always very curious about learning new things. I believe that every human being has unique attributes and skills that can be used to make our society a better place. 2. A few years ago I was a member of an organization as a part-time worker. In this job one of my primary duties was giving refunds to t he employees that went on business trips. My supervisor was a very nice man that treated me with respect. After six months on the job my supervisor got promoted and he left the office to work at another division in another state. At that time the head of the office became my supervisor. From the start I did not like the way I was treated by this person. She though because I was young and inexperienced that I did not deserve any respect.

Monday, October 28, 2019

Measure of Contentment Essay Example for Free

Measure of Contentment Essay Down to that moment I had vainly supposed that my creditor had withdrawn or suspended proceedings until I should be quite recovered. I had never dreamed of Joes having paid the money; but Joe had paid it, and the receipt was in his name. What remained of me now, but to follow him to the dear old forge, and there to have out my disclosure with him, and my penitent remonstrance with him, (Page 463) This shows how only Joe can rescue Pip and his identity; Joe represents who Pip should have become. Respect and admiration for Joe is once again won for Pip, as I had never dreamed of Joe paying the money; but Joe had paid it, and the receipt was in his name shows. As a result of this act of Joes, Pip continues to reform into someone with a better identity, an example of which is shown in the passage: What remained of me now, but to follow him to the dear old forge, and there to have out my disclosure with him, and my penitent remonstrance with him, as this shows how Pip is willing to be humble toward Joe, and ask for his forgiveness. By seeking after someone elses pleasure before his own, Pip displays qualities of selflessness, Once Pip has discovered his true identity, he can begin to become someone he is happy and content with, because he cares less about his own problems and so they dont loom as great and as terrible, and he becomes more content. A further lesson Pip must learn in his struggle to find contentment is to control his fantasies, phobias and delusions. A phobia is something psychological, that you fear and therefore try to shut out. Pips phobia that he wont be able to obtain Estella controls him so much that he subconsciously creates fantasies to counter-act his phobias. A fantasy is when you dream of something irrational, or a surreal delusion of something that is exaggerated to fit your expectations of what you want that thing to be. Pip gets trapped by many fantasies in the novel, which prevent him living in reality and achieving contentment. A major fantasy in the novel is that Estella is meant for him, and that Miss Havisham is his benefactress, and this fantasy drives Pip into becoming a gentleman: The beautiful young lady at Miss Havishams, and shes more beautiful than anyone ever was, and I admire her dreadfully, and I want to be a gentleman on her account. (Page 125) This passage is when Pip confides in Biddy why he yearns after being a gentleman, and it shows how Pip has the fantasy that as soon as he is a gentleman, Estella will be his. Later, when he comes into his Great Expectations, he fantasises that Miss Havisham is his benefactress so that he can be fit for Estella, and the fantasy is so strong that he makes himself believe that it is true. A passage that displays this is found on Page 177, when Pip is getting acquainted with Herbert: And as to the condition which you hold your advancement in life-namely that you are not to inquire or discuss to whom you owe it- you may be very sure that it will never be encroached upon, or even approached by me, or anyone belonging to me. In truth, he said this with so much delicacy, that I felt the subject done with, even though I should be under his fathers roof for years and years to come. Yet e said it with so much meaning, too, that I felt he as perfectly understood Miss Havisham to be my benefactress, as I understood the fact myself. This passage shows how Pip has let his fantasy that Miss Havisham is his benefactress delude him, and how he will manipulate things that may not necessarily mean what Pip wants them to mean, to suit him and his fantasies. In order for Pip to progress in life and achieve contentment, he must learn to let go of these fantasies. However, it is apparent that Pip is unable to let go of his fantasies, because he is afraid of what the reality might be. For example, Pip makes himself believe that Miss Havisham is his benefactress and that Estella is intended for him, because if Miss Havisham is not his benefactor, who is, and is Estella still for him? To Pip, the answer to these questions are too daunting to recognize, so he fantasises about the answer that he wants it to be. Therefore, when Pip discovers that in reality, his benefactor is an escaped convict, he is in absolute shock and repulsion. The abhorrence in which I held the man, the dread I had of him, the repugnance with which I shrank from him, could not have been exceeded if he had been some terrible beast. (Page 313) Dickenss cleverly uses language in this passage by repeating the same thing three times in different ways, as each of the parts of the passage that Pip describes Magwitch with all tell of his hatred and revulsion of him, but the build up of these things adds drama to the scene, emphasising Pips shock at the reality instead of his fantasy. Once Pip understands that Magwitch is his benefactor, a reformation begins in Pip, and he becomes a better, happier, more altruistic person. Where I might go, what I might do, or when I might return were questions utterly unknown to me; nor did I vex my mind with them, for it was wholly set on Proviss safety. I only wondered for the passing moment, as I stopped at the door and looked back, under what altered circumstances I should next see those rooms, if ever. (Page 425) This passage depicts how Pip has controlled his phobia of lower class status, because he is willing to help Magwitch and develops a self-sacrificing love for him, because, as it says in this passage, Pip is willing to give up everything that he has ever consciously wanted, which is being an eligible gentleman, for Magwitchs (Proviss) safety. As a result of his self-centred fantasies, phobias and delusions, Pip becomes very selfish and self-concerned whilst he is in London, but when he begins to seek humble forgiveness from Joe and Miss Havisham because his fantasies have been ruined by reality, he becomes less selfish. Selflessness contributes to Pips happiness at the end of the novel, which is part of Pip learning to become like Joe, who demonstrates selflessness throughout the novel. When Pip seeks after others happiness before his own, he becomes more able to grow and develop into a better person: Giving of self makes you unselfish, which in turn makes you happy as you make others happy. This consequences in you being outward looking because you want to look for more opportunities to help others, creating less focus on your own faults and more contentment and satisfaction with yourself. For example, when Pip saves Miss Havisham from the fire, or lends Herbert money for his business, Pip forgets about his own needs and safety. The injury Pip gets as a result of the fire at Satis House does not prevent Pip from wanting to save Magwitch by helping him escape the law and Compeyson by fleeing the country, instead, he wishes he could do more: I felt mortified to be of such little use in the boat,; but there were few better oarsman than my two friends. (Page 426) This shows how instead of dwelling on his own unfortunate circumstances, and the fact that he felt mortified, Pip thinks in a complimentary manner about his two friends: but there were few better oarsman than my two friends. Pip learning how to become less self-centred and dispel his fantasies and phobias partly leads to the level his contentment at the end of the novel. An additional lesson that Pip must learn before he can achieve some level of contentment, and a fundamental lesson for anyone growing up, is learning to listen and take advice from others. There are many points in the novel where Pip is offered good advice, usually by someone of trust or worth to Pip, and he doesnt take it. Once Pip learns to take the advice given to him by those superior to him in experience, he can begin to make better and more informed decisions, which consequences in his being happier, more satisfied and more content. The first major turning point in the novel, of Pip desiring to be and becoming a gentleman, could have been avoided if Pip had listened to this advice given to him by Biddy: Biddy, said I, after binding her to secrecy, I want to be a gentleman. Oh, I wouldnt, if I were you! she returned. I dont think it would answer. Biddy, I said with some severity, I have particular reasons for wanting to be a gentleman. You know best Pip, but dont you think that you are happier as you are? (Page 124) This passage shows how Pip thinks that he knows best, as he speaks to Biddy with severity at not being able to understand why he wants to be a gentleman. When Biddy questions Pip, if he is not happier now, it shows that Pip is striving for contentment, although he attempts to find it in the wrong way, as Biddy cleverly picks up on: Do you want to be a gentleman to spite her, or to gain her over? Biddy quietly asked, after a pause. I dont know, I moodily answered. Because if it is to spite her, Biddy pursued, I should think -but you know best- that might be better and more independently done by caring nothing, for her words. And if it is to gain her over- I should think- but you know best -she is not worth gaining over. (Page 125) Here, Biddy is offering Pip very good advice; that Estella really isnt worth it. However, Pip thinks that he knows best, as Biddy says, and continues to follow the prospect of becoming a gentleman for Estella. If Pip had taken Biddys advice, he would have been able to achieve contentment in his life quicker than he does as he pursues the life of a gentleman, because he would have learned to forget Estella, become apprenticed to Joe, and lived the life of Joe, who is content with his life. However, once Pip is in London, it is a whole new world to him, one that he struggles to cope with at first because of the spectral difference between London and his marsh country home. As a result of this, Pip needs to be taught how to survive in London and he is now willing to learn and listen to the advice of others, which in turn helps him to achieve a degree of contentment. I believe that this is one of the most important lessons that readers today can get from Great Expectations; that in order to achieve contentment, you need to be able to listen to the advice of those that are older, more experienced and more knowledgeable that you are, because they are more likely to know how to best achieve it. The readers can learn from Pips ignorance not to make the same mistakes themselves. Dickens cleverly uses setting throughout the novel to depict different qualities of life, or levels of contentment. The marsh country Pip originates from represents a humble lifestyle, but those that live there, such as Joe and Biddy, and Pip at the beginning of the novel, seem to be more content with their lives than those that live in London, which represents the wealthy, extravagant lifestyle. Dickens uses this irony to show how money and wealth do not necessarily bring contentment, which is a further essential lesson that Pip must learn. Miss Havisham lives in Satis House, which comes from the Latin meaning enough or satisfaction. This is ironic because from the outside, the house represents a life of wealth and grandeur, which people often assume to bring satisfaction, but on the inside, the residents of the house lead a bitter, frozen lifestyle, and Miss Havisham is so unsatisfied with her life that she lives it to wreak revenge on all men. These circumstances are used by Dickens to show how wreaking revenge does not equate to contentment; Pip must learn that if he is to be happy, he must not seek revenge from anyone, even those that have especially offended him. Nobodys life works out perfectly, and Pips is evidently no exception. An example of a situation where Pip would need to learn to forgive and forget is when Mrs Joe, his sister dies. On contemplation, Pip reflects: Whatever my fortunes might have been, I could scarcely have recalled my sister with much tenderness. But I suppose there is a shock of regret which may exist without much tenderness. Under its influence (and perhaps to make up for the want of the softer feeling) I was seized by a violent indignation against the assailant from whom she had suffered so much; and I felt that on sufficient proof I could have revengefully perused Orlick, or anyone else, to the last extremity. (Page 272) This passage discloses Pips thoughts as he moves from feeling bitter toward his sister: I could scarcely recall her with much tenderness, to seeking revenge upon the person that caused his sister anguish: I felt that on sufficient proof I could have revengefully perused Orlick, or anyone else, to the last extremity. It is a successful piece of writing as Dickenss uses pairs of effective adjectives such as shock of regret and violent indignation, which creates more impact on the reader and helps them to empathise with the way Pip is feeling. This then results in the reader feeling more of a connection to Pip as he strives to achieve contentment, and so helps them to learn more from the novel. In conclusion, it believe that Dickens rite-of-passage novel Great Expectations is successful at presenting useful lessons to its readers as to how they themselves can achieve contentment, despite being written in the 19th century. These are portrayed through Pips own struggle to achieve contentment, many of the struggles relating to Dickens own life, such as the issues like overcoming debt, unrequited love, family problems and poor education. Dickens shows in the novel how these things can be overcome, and contentment and satisfaction achieved, through the realisation of moral values, the dispelling of delusions and fantasies, and learning how to respond to people around you. However, despite this, the most important lesson, that comes through the novel, in learning how to achieve contentment in life is living it. Pip says that he was happy at the forge before he went to London, but he was not content (Page 315). Therefore, this suggests that the novel recommends that the best way to gain contentment is to live your life and learn through the experience of it; otherwise you would feel unsatisfied with your experience of life.