Business Management and Personal Skills Assignment

Business Management and Personal Skills - Assignment Example Academic writing involves putting together information from literature, including journals, books, websites, periodicals, reports and other, in a synchronized and organized manner and offer originality of thought to support the thesis. Referencing these sources in the correct manner as per the required citation style (APA, Harvard, MLA, and Chicago etc.) is quintessential to support the argument being made. Counterarguments also need to be offered to ensure that the author is well aware of both sides of the argument which enhances the validity of these arguments.   However, mere paraphrasing of authors’ ideas and putting them together without synchronizing them will result in a ‘patchwork’ and not an essay or a report. It is, therefore, critical to link the ideas with each other to ensure a coherent meaning is conveyed. Although I had strong skills as far as finance and accounting were concerned, my creative writing skills needed refinement as was indicated by m y instructors in their feedback. I found it increasingly difficult to organize my free-flowing thoughts into a structure and develop a flow throughout my piece of writing. According to Barrass, after scanning through the index to check whether the book is relevant or not it is useful to skim through the text to gather the main ideas. Following this pattern, I took notes after my ‘second’ reading of the text and tried reconstructing outline for the topic. This allowed me to organize my thoughts in a better way.... cluding journals, books, websites, periodicals, reports and other, in a synchronized and organized manner and offer originality of thought to support the thesis. Referencing these sources in the correct manner as per the required citation style (APA, Harvard, MLA, and Chicago etc.) is quintessential to support the argument being made (Tissington et al., 2009). Counterarguments also need to be offered to ensure that the author is well aware of both sides of the argument which enhances the validity of these arguments (Neville, 2010) (Anderson, 2010). However, mere paraphrasing of authors’ ideas and putting them together without synchronizing them will result in a ‘patchwork’ and not an essay or a report (Bovee et al., 2008). It is, therefore, critical to link the ideas with each other to ensure a coherent meaning is conveyed. Although I had strong skills as far as finance and accounting were concerned, my creative writing skills needed refinement as was indicated by my instructors in their feedback. I found it increasingly difficult to organize my free flowing thoughts into a structure and develop a flow throughout my piece of writing. According to Barrass, after scanning through the index to check whether the book is relevant or not it is useful to skim through the text to gather the main ideas (Barrass, 1996). Following this pattern, I took notes after my ‘second’ reading of the text and tried reconstructing outline for the topic. This allowed me to organize my thoughts in a better way. During my study, however, I was exposed to the concept of group studies which is something that has been reinforced by my learning on team dynamics and team working in organisations. Theory suggests the significance of learning through teams (Hills, 2001). However, my

Brand Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Brand Management - Essay Example rand of its retail business, and it is the largest division in the Cooperative Group and it is one of the largest food retail chains in the country of United Kingdom. The strategy adopted by the group is to mainly serving the local communities with small stores, in line with the objectives of cooperative movement, rather than competing with the bigger supermarkets. Members of The Co-operative Group get rebate on the value of purchases made from the cooperative retail stores. The brand concept of the group, for example in the case of Co-op 99Â  brand tea, portends success of a comprehensive strategy that may be adopted for its foods business, to leverage its strengths goodwill in the market. The products with Cooperative brands already appearing with its own labels are available throughout the country in their own stores and other retail cooperative societies. A strategy for consolidation of the brand image and brand value at this stage would enhance the brand identity, recognition, image and positioning relative to the competing products. Brand image denotes the respectability or the status of the products or services as perceived by the consumers. Brand represents character, quality or attributes in respect of the products or services which is very important for the manufacturers or service providers to position the product or services in the market place or differentiate them from the others. Every entrepreneur tries to introduce unique features to strike a chord with the customers with varied expectations, requirements, aspirations and psychological needs. In creation of a brand, building unique features into the products or services plays a basic and important role. Establishing the brand in the market place involves creating awareness about the products in the minds of the consumers. Creation, establishment and maintenance of the brand could be called as brand management. There are so many factors involved in a brand to be successful in the long

Approaches to Treating Depression: An Analysis

Approaches to Treating Depression: An Analysis Stacey Obispo NCU Intervention Program Depression is an issue that will affect 10 percent of the young adults in the United States (Buss, 2012). Possible solutions towards treating depression can be found through an evolutionary perspective. By looking through the lens of evolutionary psychology one can see how the ancient environments different from the ones we have today have developed and molded the structure and functions of our brains. Treating depression through understanding environmental influences and natural selection in shaping brain formation and behaviors can be an effective way towards incorporating an intervention plan to prevent and counter the effects of depression. Theoretical Approach The theoretical basis for the depression intervention program is based on an ethological approach. The role of biology in studying human behavior brought on from Darwin’s theory of natural selection was enforced through ethology (Buss, 2012) The ethological approach for treating depression is one that should be considered because it does not just treat the symptom (such as sadness) it attempts to treat the root of the problem. Using an ethological approach to depression answers the four whys of behavior. The four â€Å"whys† of behavior include: 1) the immediate influences of behavior; 2) the developmental influences of behavior; (life;3) the function of behavior or the â€Å"adaptive purpose† it fulfills, and 4) the evolutionary or phylogenetic origins of behavior (Buss, 2012). The first two â€Å"why† questions examine the causes of behaviors pertain to the processing of internal and external stimuli such as one’s anatomy (Geerts Brune, 2009). Th e second two â€Å"why† questions are referred as the evolutionary causes which address the evolutionary processes that molded the behavior (Geerts Brune, 2009). These questions are important pertaining to depression because with these answers a deeper understanding involving the biological action of behavior or selective advantages regarding a person’s survival and reproductive process can be understood as well as how the origins of the behavior may have come about and evolved. Evolutionary Psychology Darwin’s theory of natural selection composes of three essential ingredients variation, inheritance, and selection. Organisms vary in different ways such as personality, cell structure, defensive ability and etc. The raw materials provided that are essential for evolution to operate is variation (Buss, 2012). Some variations are inherited passed down from parents to offspring down through the generations(Buss,2012). As a result, more offspring results due to the aid of heritable variants for the task of survival or reproduction(Buss 2012). Another way variation applies is through phenotypes. Phenotypes are the physical and biochemical characteristics of an organism as determined by the interaction of its genetic make- up and the environment (Brune et al. ,2012). They are important to understanding how behaviors develop due to environmental factors. Phenotypic variation occurs when an intricate interaction of environment and genotype including epigenetic devices are decisively shaped by experiences of the individual lifespan (Brune et al., 2012). Implementation of an intervention program can be made by looking at how the origins of these traits apply to psychological development of maladaptive traits and the detection and the development and nature of its devices, explain the â€Å"proximate causes†, and evolutionary history and adaptive value (Brune et al, 2012). Treating depression through understanding environmental influences and natural selection in shaping brain formation and behaviors seen through the lens of genetics, environment and psychotherapy is the basis for the intervention program. Genetics and Environment Belsky and Pluess (2009) found that in humans parenting and gene environment interactions can affect ones susceptibility to depression. Individuals may be more likely to develop psychiatric conditions like depression because they carry variations of genes that make them vulnerable. What is even more striking in the research of Belsky and Pluess (2009) is the discovery of variations of genes can predispose an individual into developing depression due to unfavorable environmental conditions such as child abuse an these alleles can also protect and allow enhanced coping from experiencing favorable environmental conditions. So the gene can produce two results; predispose one to a psychiatric condition or enhance coping skills. These results show how genes and environment interplay with each other to get either a favorable or unfavorable result. The results advocate how selection favors flexibility which contributes towards individuals being more exposed to environmental possibilities (Br une et al., 2012). This knowledge is valuable for making interventions to depression because the research has suggested that if one is in a favorable environment can foster positive results such as enhanced coping skills (Belsky Pluess, 2009). Conversely, environmental influences such as poor parenting practices and insecure attachment with parents can predispose one to a psychiatric condition (Belsky Pluess, 2009). With this found knowledge the depression intervention program can be implemented because the genetic and environmental causes have been identified. Intervention Program The depression intervention model will be administered with participants who volunteer for the program. Eligible participants will include individuals who have been identified by California Department of Social Services who are currently encountering a depressive episode or who are living in unfavorable conditions which might provoke the occurrence of depression. Families that have been identified at being high risk for child abuse and neglect will also be invited to partake in the intervention program. Individuals who take part of the intervention will receive help through a clinical psychologist administering Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) which is drawn from Bowlby’s attachment theory. The length of treatment will be 1hour sessions given once weekly over the course of six months. Relating to Evolutionary Psychology Evolutionary concepts are important in understanding mental health issues such as depression. An example of how gene and environment interaction interplay with each other is seen in Bowlby’s attachment theory. Psychological and psychiatric clinical practices have drawn upon Bowlby’s attachment model which state that early social interaction between mother and newborn plays an important role in the social development in life and that abnormal early attachment can predispose the child to psychopathology later in life (Geerts Brune, 2009). Following on the evolutionary concept of Bowlby is CFT. CFT is a form of therapy that teaches patients the importance of phenotypic variation and evolutionary concepts. Gilbert (2009) points out that CFT focuses on distinguishing at least three types of emotion regulation systems: threat and protection systems; drive, resource-seeking and excitement systems; and contentment, soothing and safeness systems. The threat and protection system is the source of most psychopathologies and all living things have a threat detection and protection system (Gilbert, 2009). However environmental factors like early life events (unattached mother) may stimulate an individual’s threat protection system which in turn lead to the development of safety strategies which can operate automatically as a conditioned or conflicting response (Gilbert, 2009). Safety strategies according to Gilbert (2009) can include avoiding interpersonal conflict, seeing one’s self as inferior , and being quick to socially anxious and uncertain. Strategies such as these can increase one’s vulnerability to depression and low self- esteem and depression (Gilbert, 2009). According to Gilbert (2009) the drive system relates to the threat protection system by trying to avoid negativity through thoughts such as â€Å"shoulds†, â€Å"oughts† and â€Å" musts† .Material possessions, and achievement are pursued in order to feel safe and deter the feeling of inferiority and rejection (Gilbert, 2009). However in depression there is decreased activity in this system. The contentment system is related with being happy and not having the need to seek for things(Gilbert,2009). Contentment is the absence of activity in the threat protection system. The contentment system is linked to opiates which regulates happy feelings(Gilbert,2009). Bowlby’s attachment theory is related to contentment systems because a parent touching and soothing a baby has an effect on a baby’s physiology (Gilbert, 2009) According to Gilbert (2009) caring behavior is important because it activates the soothing in the threat and protection system and causes it to not be overstimulated. CFT uses attachment theory to help individuals understand the ecological bases ingrained and communicated through their symptoms and offers reasons for giving up unprofitable behavioral strategies or defenses. Conclusion Treating depression through an ethological approach treats the root of the problem not just the symptom. CFT approaches depression by considering phenotypic variations and informing patients of how these variations are a part of an evolutionary process. A depression intervention program like the one modeled which places emphasis on understanding the roles of genes, environment, and psychotherapy can be an effective tool in combating depression. References Belsky, J., Pluess, M. (2009). Beyond diathesis stress: Differential susceptibility to environmental influences. doi:DOI: 10.1037/a0017376 Brune, M., Belsky, J., Fabrega, H., Feierman, H., Glibert, H., Glantz, K., Polimeni, J. (2012). The crisis of psychiatry- insights and prospectus from evolutionary theory. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3266750/?tool=pubmed#B16 Buss, D. (2012) Evolutionary psychology: The new science of the mind 4th ed. Prentice Hall Geerts, E., Brune, M. (2009). Ethological approaches to psychiatric disorders: Focus on Depression and schizophrenia. Retrieved from http://ehis.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=10[emailprotected]hid=104 Gilbert, P. (2009). Introducing compassion -focused therapy. Retrieved from apt.rcpsych.org/content/15/3/199.full

Neural Interfacing Essay -- essays papers

Neural Interfacing In the motion picture â€Å"RoboCop† scientists during a future time implanted a human head into the body of a futuristic robot creating an almost unstoppable police officer. During 1987, when this movie was produced, the idea of man combining with machine was considered pure fantasy. However, advances in technology in the year 2000 and further studies in recent years have proven that this idea may, in time, become a reality. On October 13th 2003, sciencedaily.com in their article, Monkeys Consciously Control A Robot Arm Using Only Brain Signals, reported that researchers of Duke University had successfully taught a monkey to manipulate a robotic arm using only her brain signals and a video display.[1] Though the theory behind the idea of somehow connecting human tissue to electronic devices is relatively simple, the processes needed to create the experiment are very complex. For years scientists have understood that the brain uses small amounts of electrical currents to stimulate specific muscle movements. Some of these scientists then asked if it was possible to create a device that can be controlled simply by reading this electric activity of the brain. Only in recent years were scientists able to place this theory into practice. This amazing scientific accomplishment was made possible by surgically implanting microelectrodes (very small sensors used to measure electric activity in living tissue) into the brains of two monkeys.[2] These microelectrodes were implanted where scientists believe is the greatest amount of complex muscle control, the frontal and parietal regions of the brain. [3] Then different measurements of electric brain activity were recorded from the microelectrodes utilizing a scientifi... ... God and fiddle with God’s creation? This is a very personal question and must be dealt with the by individual alone. Works cited: Better Humans. (2004, February). Snail Brain Merged with Microchip. Retrieved March 31, 2004 from http://www.betterhumans.com/News/news.aspx?articleID=2004-02-23-4 Science Daily. (2004, March). Human Studies Show Feasibility Of Brain-machine Interfaces. Retrieved March 31, 2004 from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/03/040324071203.htm Science Daily. (2003, October). Monkeys Consciously Control A Robot Arm Using Only Brain Signals. Retrieved March 31, 2004 from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/10/031013082812.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/10/031013082812.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/03/040324071203.htm http://www.betterhumans.com/News/news.aspx?articleID=2004-02-23-4

Delta Airlines Essay

Delta Air Lines is one of the top five domestic airlines in the United States, and amongst the top 20 in the world today. The key to Delta being so successful today is their focus on human relations (Anthony, Kacmar, & Parrewà ©, 2010). An agricultural extension agent by the name of C.E. Woolman founded Delta. Mr. Woolman was not a financier, so Delta has not historically relied on financial strategies to create competitive advantage (Anthony, Kacmar, & Parrewà ©, 2010). Delta has had the fewest number of customer complaints of any major carrier for 20 years straight. This excellent customer service could be partial due to the fact that Delta was strongly committed to its employees. With loyal employees and excellent customer service Delta was able to be very competitive in the airline industry and still is today. One of Delta greatest challenge today is differentiating itself from its competitors while cutting cost, but through their continual strong focus on human relations and s uperior customer service Delta will continue to be amongst the top in the airline industry. External Environment General. Economic factors: Inflation has increased and the world economy has dealt  with financial issues. There is a lot of potential growth in the emerging economies. Airlines merging not only affect those involved in the merger, but also the other airlines that stand to lose market share. Socio-culture: Factor varies among societies. The airline industry serves all kinds of customers. There have been issues with obesity and airlines because of having to purchase an additional seat for being larger. Political-Regulatory factors: Airlines have to consider are security issues because of terrorist attacks and deregulation of airlines. Also, there are fuel regulations to consider (Anthony, Kacmar & Perrewe, 2010). Technological factors: Technology has changed the industry drastically. Travel agencies are completely obsolete because of websites like hotwire, Orbitz and Priceline. Airlines have mobile applications for phones and ipads that allow you to check-in and get flight updates. You do no t even need a paper-boarding pass; there are electronic boarding passes. Demographic factors: The airline industry serves customers all over the world. Typically serving adults, even though children fly. Shares of the market are customers traveling for business purposes. Industry Airline Industry. The airline industry is a major economic and social force. The impact air travel has had on related industries, manufacturing, and tourism is on a global scale. Few industries have created the amount of technological advancement or gained such attention from federal governments. The industry has high and low cycles largely dependent on time of year and socioeconomic factors. The industry is fairly concentrated with only a small handful of majors competitors in North America, but each competitor has attached themselves to joint ventures with numerous global corporations, such as Sky Team, which contains Delta Air Lines. Airlines compete on a global scale, offering flights from Washington D.C to South Africa to Tokyo, Japan. Companies that limit themselves to a certain region struggle maintain a large portion of the market share. The airline industry is somewhat difficult to break into due to a high learning curve and the number of major competitors already establishe d in the field. The industry is in a mature phase, which means it is a well-established commodity that has seen little growth into untapped markets. Technology is rapidly growing to make planes larger, more efficient, quieter, and easier to manage. Technology has  allowed air travel to become safer and more cost effective than driving. The use of the internet has enabled consumers to purchase seats easier than ever. The capital requirements of an airline are very large. Planes, hangars, hubs, and a massive support staff are always needed to maintain even a small operation of flights. The industry can be very profitable as long as competition is maintained and people have a need for more rapid transportation. 5 – Force Analysis New Entrants. The significant start-up costs and capital requirements make entering the airline industry difficult. Government regulations also make a new or unknown company struggle internationally, as many governments strictly control who has authority to land within the country. Foreign competitors are more of a threat than new competitors. Foreign competitors are always looking to increase their market share in the U.S. and North America. Suppliers. Suppliers have a large amount of power within the industry. Boeing and Airbus dominate the manufacturing industry related to the airlines, which limits competition and rivalry. There is a lack of intensity within the industry due to this lack of competition. The other high priced commodity for airlines is fuel. The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries is very strong and can easily influence the price of fuel. These suppliers can demand the prices they want because the airline industry has limited options otherwise. Buyers. Buyers have relatively low bargaining power within the airline industry. This is in part due to the high costs of switching airlines and the fact that airlines have the ability to set their own prices without fear of taking losses. Buyer power has recently grown with the use of travel/booking websites such as Travelocity, Kayak, and Hotwire. These sites enable buyers to instantaneously peruse numerous airline ticketing costs. The consumer then has the option to select the airline with the lowest offered price. Delta has introduced a way to lower ticket costs and maintain a loyal customer base. They offer lowered prices to consumers who buy directly from the Delta website. Substitutes. The increased efficiency of other travel modes do offer some threats of substitutes and also forces the airline industry to remain vigilant about having constant technological upgrades of their own. The threats offered from other services, such as motor vehicle, train, and boat,  have been dec lining since the rise of air travel, but they remain as a constant within the tourism and travel industries. Increased costs of fuel/oil prices have decreased the number of consumers who travel for pleasure, which has increased the percentage of those who travel for business needs. Airlines remain the favorite for international or transoceanic traveling due to the speed of transportation. Existing Rivalry. Rivals have created increased intensity within the market and the need for joint ventures and new business contracts on a regular basis. The most profitable hubs are ones setup within major traffic cities with a high demand for air travel. This means that the major airlines have to compete with one another to seize the larger markets. The larger markets typically cost more to get into, but yield a higher return on investments, so it is beneficial to become involved. Companies need to offer more flights and more time flexibility through these larger markets to keep up with the demand of their rival companies. Fixed costs from suppliers, low differentiation of services, and price wars contribute to rivalry as well. Net profits are lower overall due to this competition, but it ensures that one company is unable to seize a monopoly of the market share. Offering â€Å"frequent flyer miles† is one way to differentiate from the competition and increase a loyal customer base.

Abnormal Psychology: Abnormality

1) Abnormality is defined from an average where common behaviour is defined as â€Å"normal† and rare behaviour is defined as abnormal. These characteristics can be shown and placed on a scale â€Å"graph† that would reveal how common their score is in comparison to everyone else. There are problems deciding how rare behaviour has to be to be considered abnormal, phobias could be defined as normal as they affect a lot of the population. Different cultures have different definitions of being abnormal. Something that is rare to use might be defined as normal to a different culture. Statistical infrequency is a way to define events that are more or less common, this frequency is represented with a curve the most common events are the high part of this curve and the less common are the lowest part of the curve. The most infrequent occurrences are considered abnormal and statistically infrequent; these are events that occur rarely. In some situations statistical infrequency is used to define mental retardation, but statistical infrequency doesn’t focus on the bad points only, abnormal behaviour isn’t always undesirable e. . being better at sports, genius’s. Using statistical infrequency means we are unable to distinguish the good and bad abnormalities. 2) The diagnostic term for the patient is schizophrenia the doctor will evaluate the patient and ask about symptoms, medical history, and see if theres anything physically wrong with the patient. There are no tests to identify mental illnesses, the doctor would send the patient for tests to rule out any other illnesses first. If theres nothing physically wrong and the symptoms persist the doctor may refer the patient to a psychiatrist these people are trained for treating mental illnesses. These trained people use a specially designed interview to evaluate the person, they also see how the person is within themselves and socially, and watch the persons attitude and behaviour, the doctor would ask if they have Hallucinations,Delusions If extremely bizarre, they would see if their speech is Disorganised They can usually diagnose a mental disorder based on these factors. Doctors may misdiagnose patients suffering with schizophrenia symptoms, the patient may be embarrassed about being diagnosed with this condition so may not tell the doctor about hallucinations or any other disturbing behaviour, its difficult to diagnose schizophrenia with it being a mental disorder an may be diagnosed as another mental condition. 3) Discuss evidence that schizophrenia has a biological cause. Twin studies show that they have a higher concordance rates than dizypotic twins. The closer the relative the higher the concordance . Biological causes schizophrenia Our genes are involved with the inheritance or development of schizophrenia, multiple chromosomes are transmitted to people in generations and are later diagnosed with schizophria, there is a 70% chance of inheriting schizophrenia. Evidence shows that identical twins do not develop schizophrenia, i resent study shows that 28% of twins have a chance of developing schizophrenia if the other twin already has it. Stress can cause episopes of schizophrenia, there are also other factors like poverty, poor diet, ill health, drug use. Researchers have found that people suffering from schizophrenia tend to have been born in winter. There are no definite causes of schizophrenia. Chemotherapy is used to treat chemical imbalance’s in the brain, its changes the way the brain and body works. 4) Discuss the role of the family in the causation of schizophrenia. The double bind theory states that schizophrenia is a abnormal patter n in family communication, a person is given mutually contradictory signals by another person, this places the person in an arkward situation causing conflict. Liem et al compared communication patterns within the family with an without a schizophrenia, there was evidence that families process a role in relapse of schizophrenia patients following stabilisation. Familys hign in critgicism, hostility lead to more relapse, the double bind theory is a distressing communication within the family, the use of confusion makes it difficult to respond or to resist conflict. 5) Evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive therapy for schizophrenia, and discuss problems in assessing its effectiveness. This treatment is increasingly popular this has good success rates for epression, OCD, eating disorders and anxiety, its less effective with schizophrenia and dipolar depression. It works by the way we think at attitudes that influence our behaviour, irrational thinking is seen to be the cause of the mental disorders; it also works by changing the way the client thinks. This therapy has fewer side effects than any other treatments, this is a long term strategy but could make the patient worse if it doesn’t work and it’s not a quick recovery process. People could give up on this treatment feeling it’s not working because it takes a long time.

Dreams vs. reality Essays

Dreams vs. reality Essays Dreams vs. reality Paper Dreams vs. reality Paper Dreams vs.. Reality Corm McCarthy has written many terrific novels Including the book The Road. In this book McCarthy uses the theme dreams vs.. Reality often. Many other authors have also used this theme, including F. Scott Fitzgerald. Corm McCarthy and F. Scott Fitzgerald have very different writing styles, although they both have the reoccurring theme of dreams vs.. Reality. In the book The Road there are numerous examples of how McCarthy compares dreams and reality. One of the main of examples of this is the man dreaming of his wife. In the story, the wife Is never physically there; she Is always a thought, a Emory or a dream. The old man often dreams of their perfect relationship and how wonderful and gorgeous she was. He dreamt of her in a magnificent dress, with a dashing smile and luscious dark hair. The man dreaming of his wife so often meant something. His wife was a wonderful thing and it also is something he lost. This is a direct comparison to his life. He had a fantastic life and now after the disaster his life Is ruined and destroyed Just Like his wife. The boy himself also had dreams. The boys dreams were not as happy and good as the father; rather they were dark and scary, bad dreams. One dream in specific was the dream of a wound it up toy. As the boy woke whimpering he told his father everything about the dream. l had this penguin that you wound up and it would waddle and flap its flippers. We were in that house that we used to live in and it came around the corner but nobody had wound It up and It was really scary. (The Road 14) To many people this might sound foolish. UT this was a child and had many scary thoughts dancing around his head and his dreams were how he expressed his thoughts. Later in the story, Just before the Mans death, he gave the boy some very wise advice. When your dreams are of some world that never was or of some world that never will be and you are happy again then you will have given up. Do you understand? And you cant give up. I wont let you. (The Road 66) In essence, what the Man Is trying to say Is that without bad dreams there Is no end and with good dreams the end is near. When your dreams are happy it has proven you have given up and you have lost. When you are having bad dreams you are still fighting and you are pursuing the future. Dreams are a physiological time clock of your life. Relative to Corm McCarthy, F. Scott Fitzgerald uses the theme of dreams vs.. Laity In his books. It Is most prominent In the book The Great Gatsby. In this book Jay Gatsby pursues his dreams to be In a relationship Daisy Buchanan. In this quest he overcomes and succumbed to many obstacles. His main obstacle was winning Daisy back and living the perfect life just as he dreamt. Gatsby needed to face reality and realize that he can not reverse time. Nor can he instantly make his dreams true. Reality was that Gatsby was too late, Daisy had fallen in love with Tom Buchanan and Gatsby love would not be enough to split there relationship. Case, his dreams overcame him. He dreamt of Daisy and their perfect future, he dad this his goal and only goal. He started evolving his entire life around it by buying a huge mansion across the bay from the Buchannan and throwing huge parties on the weekends. The line between reality and dreams was blurred and Gatsby started to mistake his dreams for reality. Once his dreams were crushed his reality was crushed and Gatsby emotion caught up to him and inevitably led to disaster. Both Corm McCarthy and F. Scott Fitzgerald use the the theme dreams vs. reality. Regardless, they both have there differences, they are still very similar. Both books can teach one some very crucial and important lessons in life.

buy custom Childhood Obesity in the United States essay

buy custom Childhood Obesity in the United States essay In the United States, obesity has been identified as one of the most detrimental and life-threatening conditions. People, in an effort to save time, have turned towards the consumption of unhealthy fast foods. In addition, little time is dedicated towards exercises since individuals must meet their daily expenses and monthly bills. This culture has been passed down from the parents to the children. Parents neither educate nor present choices to their children. In addition, unhealthy foods that increase the risks of the child being overweight, and consequently obese, surround our children: from the school cafeteria to their packed lunches. This has not only had a profound effect on their health, but also places them at a significantly high risk of contracting chronic diseases and life-threatening conditions such as heart failure. Our children are the future of this nation. Key strategies must be put in place if this disastrous trend is to be reversed. This essay shall analyze obesity in children and propose ways through which it can be avoided. A report by the Center for Disease Control states that in the last thirty years, incidences on the occurrence of obesity and related conditions have almost tripled. Approximately 17% of persons aged 2-19 years are obese. This translates to 12.5 million people. It is important to differentiate between obese and overweight persons. An overweight person is one whose body mass index (BMI) ranges between the 85th and 95th percentiles. On the other hand, an obese person has a BMI exceeding the 95th percentile (Touliatos 1). Hence, over time, an overweight person becomes obese. Despite the fact that an overweight person has a lower BMI, they are faced with major health risks, which at times are just as high as those faced by an obese person. Therefore, if obesity is to be successfully tackled, the strategies used must address those who are overweight. There are several major factors that lead to obesity. First, a childs dietary habits have been identified as the leading cause of obesity. Sustained excess consumption of calories leads to a rapid gain in weight. Children have shifted away from the consumption of healthy foods and adopted a culture which promotes the consumption of fast foods. Foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables have been shunned and termed as traditional. Instead, children and teenagers have shifted towards sugary drinks, processed snacks, burgers and other foods which have high cholesterol and starch levels. In addition, children have adopted poor dietary patterns, whereby a child eats food during irregular hours such as when watching television. Secondly, genetic factors and family history may contribute towards obesity. Despite the fact that genetics do not solely contribute towards obesity, a child whose close relatives such as father or brother are obese is at a higher risk of becoming overweight. Genetic susceptibility to overweight conditions and obesity has been attributed to the interaction between genetic, environmental and behavioral factors. However, such cases are rare in the United States. Thirdly, a childs social-economic status greatly influences a childs weight. Dietary and nutrition practices are normally ignored in low-income families. As a result children born in these families are likely to consume food with high calorie levels. On the other hand, children brought up in middle-income and high-income families are more likely to watch their diets. In addition, they have sufficient resources at their disposal. Hence, they can consult the relevant medical practitioner in order to identify a proper diet. In addition, obesity disproportionately affects children according to race and ethnicity. However, these cases have only been linked to race and ethnicity due to the fact that majority of these families are in middle-income or low-income brackets. Therefore, African American and Hispanic children enjoying the same socio-economic status as white children are not necessarily exposed to higher risks in comparison to their counterparts. Additionally, when a child is physically inactive, few calories are burnt out. Todays tech-savvy children and teens spend most of their time playing computer games and watching television. In addition, their parents have busy schedules which demand that they dedicate most of their time trying to make ends meet. Hence, there is little or no time left to engage their kids in regular physical exercise. Whereas some schools have put in place several after-school exercise programs, such as soccer, they have not been made entirely compulsory. Finally, parental choices and influences greatly affect the diet and nutrition practices of their children. Once a child is born, parents are solely responsible for choosing an appropriate infant feeding scheme. During infancy and later stages of development, parents avail and promote some foods over others. Therefore, parents who prefer foods with a high saturation of fat and cholesterol are likely to influence their children towards consuming a similar diet. However, such influences reduce with age. Teenagers tastes and preferences differ widely from their parents in comparison to infants, whose diets are prepared by their parents (Zogby 1). Overweight and obese children are faced by various health risks as well as personal problems. First, they have been observed to have low self-esteem. Hence, they have a poor perception of themselves which leads to depression. In addition, they are likely to be ostracized and discriminated against by their friends since they cannot participate in social activities such as physical childhood games. Secondly, obese children are faced by a host of detrimental health conditions such as high blood pressure, difficulties in breathing and respiratory conditions such as asthma and sleep apnea, Type 2 diabetes, gallstones and kidney ailments (Hassink 10). The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization that is dedicated towards ensuring that the United States children are not only healthy but also free from diseases. The organization proposes various strategies through which obesity, and its related conditions, can be eradicated. Strategies involved in ensuring that children lead a healthy lifestyle involve parents, teaching staff at their respective schools, the public, and the children themselves. These are the individuals who form the childs environment and must partner in order to ensure a successful campaign (Hassink 16). The fight against obesity takes a three-pronged approach. First, the chiild must consume a balanced diet. Children, teens in particular, have been lured by the media through advertisements towards the consumption of foods that are highly saturated with fats and sugars such as snacks and burgers. In addition, most of these foods are consumed irregularly. Parents must not only ensure that the child takes a balanced diet, but also ensure that food is taken at regular intervals, usually after every 6 hours during the day. Secondly, the child must take part in regular exercises such as sports, jogging or walking a considerable distance. Todays parents have a very hectic schedule that does not allow them to allocate much time to their children. However, such responsibilities can be conducted at school. Children must participate in regular exercises in order to burn out extra calories which otherwise lead to the accumulation of weight. Finally, special programs should be put in place in ord er to address various conditions faced by children who are already overweight. This requires that parents consult a pediatrician or the relevant medical officer on diet and exercises that the child should participate in. For instance, obese children may have problems participating in various after-school sports due to respiratory or heart conditions. They should first be put under a special program. Afterwards, when their weight has reduced sufficiently, they can then be allowed to participate in these sports. The American Academy of Pediatrics has proposed several techniques for use by parents, teachers and the public. First, the family should work collectively towards maintaining a proper diet and in carrying out regular exercises. This ensures that the children are not singled out. During free evenings and weekends, the family should participate in joint activities such as walking, playing croquet or football. Secondly, parents should be vigilant as to what their children consume and their eating patterns. They should enlist the help of a physician. By analyzing your childs weight, height and body mass index, the physician is able to make suitable recommendations that safeguard the childs growth and development cycle. Thirdly, the parents should evaluate their childrens nutritional intakes. By eating meals together, a parent will establish whether the child has consumed sufficient supplements in his/her diet. Thirdly, schools should stock healthy food choices such as low-fat dairy produ cts and fresh fruits in their cafeterias. Similarly, a parent should take time to assess the schools cafeteria menu and lobby for the introduction of healthy foods where such are absent. Finally, both parents and teachers should regulate the amount spent watching television and on electrical gadgets such as the computer and mobile phone. This encourages the child to develop interests in physical activities such as sports. In conclusion, obesity is an outstanding problem among children and teenagers. We must all join forces in order to safeguard the future of the young generation. In addition, parents should not be solely charged with the responsibility of monitoring their childrens dietary practices. Rather, teaching staff and the public must join forces with the parents in ensuring that children do not make unhealthy food choices. This will not only protect the childrens future, but also safeguard the future of the United States. Buy custom Childhood Obesity in the United States essay

Benefits of Education for Society

Benefits of Education for Society Benefit of the education: Education a tool for progress Abstract This document shows us some educative system that change social status of the society and how the education is a perfect mechanism for finding the economic stability of a country. This research is based on fact of countries that had suffered key change using to the education how way for building a competitive civilization. Moreover, Finn educative system has been the best of the world without pressures to students. When they choose subjects, class schedules with the purpose of having brilliant students that supply their knowledge at the community. It decreased the levels of poverty in developing cities. So, this country focused in creating groups people working together for finding big profits on an environment complex. In addition, government have implemented extreme laws as free education since the first education years until university. In this nation, all is free including educative material, meal and tra nsport producing big result as the first country in innovation. Besides, time moderns had put on evidence that the world continually modify different aspects as educational, economic and social.   It has seen the need of finding other solutions based in the creativity and the innovation that request to progress with the time. So, technology is the result of people who look for show their investigations through constant experiments. Nowadays, it serves as support material for creating an easy learning to students that allow them development their thought creative. Education: A tool for progress The educational systems influence in the student dynamics facilitating the learning with techniques that allow the development mental and psychological of the students. However, obsolete educational models is ending with the critical thought of the youth. Due to, classes are not interactive between professor and student or student and student getting a level low of learning in compa rison of other countries. It connects the real world with the imaginary established possibilities for the progress where the only benefited has been the humanity. It has meant a halted society in the past without future. However, could new educational methods serves as a window to successful? Challenges of the human being are strategic approaches designs depending on the necessities that turn around of our environment. In other words, it means our world is created on base of people who has seen and thought of a way different. So, some countries adopt at the education as a form for the progress and create new policies on profit of the knowledge until get a stability economy of a country on development process. Then, it allow to develop scientist mind through experiments based experience accumulations that in an unexpected moment appearance and transformed our life. Therefore, we have to mention to the creativity and at the innovation as resources of development on a future closer. The Knowledge Builds Cities The researcher spirit is inside of each person like a faded diamond that only need to polish for having a shine. It means that the people since they are children need to have more attention and a correct education for developing a set of ideas in front of any event. It will allow them improving to generate big solutions in look for excellent. But, in the traditional educative systems, students go to the classes for staying in their seat and do not interact in the classes. At the result, that country stays in the past. The humanity requests changes constants on educative models and at the same time a dedication about effects produced on the youth. However, countries advance to big step that decrease its resources until cause damage irreversible. Here, the education is an important role because, it creates mechanics that help to eradicate problems with simple solutions based on idea rains according to a think way. Educative institutions are held to Go vernment laws apply their form of leading a nation. In this situation, the new mechanics tend to lose their figure on the development model technologic and industrial. But, there are countries where the public sectors have their space. So as, Hancock (2011) explain that â€Å"In 1963, the Finnish Parlia-ment made the bold decision to choose public education as its best shot at economic recovery.† Finland recently has been the attention center at worldwide level on education because this country has the best educative system of the world. This change began 40 years ago when they used at the education as only possible of thriving on the economy. This program takes many time until on 2000 year was the first evaluation done by Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) with a standardized test showing that Finland had the best readers of the world, on few time after they was the best in math. In 2009, PISA put to Nordic state on second place in science, in third plac e in reading and six place in math. So, they performed that education is the key of the successful. Due to, government post at the education as a mechanism for leaving of the poverty and compete worldwide. This system is success on two important aspects: Educative Model The education is free for all Finn with any economic levels receive the same knowledge and children begin school life at 7 years old. The primary education has a length of six years during this time, they have classes with the same professor each subject. They attend at the school few hours each student learns to think in the different educative levels are integrated in one only body. In other words, there is not a transition since initial education, school primary, college until university. Professor It is the career more difficult because the students must study hard for getting excellent grades. The major of students want to follow a teaching career because it has big prestige and is a respectable figure. Although, the professor salary is not high as others professions, it has huge petition in society. This carrier is enough demanding for the students but each university admits only 10% of the total of candidates. In addition, duration of this university career is five years, three years they study for a bachelor ´s degree and two years for a specialization obligatory on master. When students finish his teaching career, majority of graduate choose the childhood as the resource of knowledge on a society in building. In short, they consider that the childhood is starting point for future changes of their country. Also, children have curiosity for learning and know things that are around. All Finland people trust in the knowledge of their teachers and usually need them help about something that they do not know. Because, the community knows that students with excellent qualifications access to the teaching. Innovation and Creativity The innovation is the source of the wealth on setting of the creativity, a transition that breaks the traditional diagrams below the light of fresh ideas promoting  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   the art of thinking.   So as, Robinson (2010) explain that â€Å"In fact, creativity — which I define as the process of having original ideas that have value — more often than not comes about through the interaction of different disciplinary ways of seeing things.† Then, the tactic discipline puts on evidence creation of a right behavior directed interchange of ideas between people. Occasionally, the scientists use simple ideas like hypothesis for arriving to a general idea (thesis) in middle of these two points exist innumerable experimental processes. So, there are great creations start with simple answer and follow a sequence logical of thoughts until get a purpose. For instance, the technology since its creation on the century XXI has united borders and has destroyed obstacles on the field social and on construct ion of new knowledge. Nowadays, the professors and students have benefit on the learning and the teaching through computational programs orient to create more invent in basing of invent created. However, it needs economic investment of local governments and contribution of private companies for an excellent educative level. That is to say, the better investment is in the education. In addition, some invents serve like experimental models for the next generation. It attracts attention of the students and possibility of creating a revolutionary idea. Creativity designs a path of chances on crisis times. Creative uses passion as the motor to develop an activity and involving the imagination in the prediction about something that will happen or happened. Humans are the only with capacity compose, create, invent, build cities and buildings. We live in an imaginary world where everything around us is the end product of an idea that someone had. So, if we put our neurons to work we are a ble to advance, progress, start our projects and face new challenges. Although, sometimes we have possibility of making mistakes, this not must be impediment because stumbling leads to a good idea. Therefore, we all have capacity to create and to imagine but we must learn to develop it in the same way that we learn to read. Senegal (2016) said that â€Å"Technology is progressively replacing manual labour and pervading how we live and work.† So, the creativity revolutionizes the learning and changing the social status of a generation that advances continuously using new methods on the education. Modern methodologies offer a variety of solutions with the building of investigation centers. It has gotten good profit and the quote of investigators for the modern world. In conclusion, this research have found important aspects that is changing the world since human beings use their physical abilities or intellectuals for creating something. However, some people is following ol d methods that do not allow developing a creative though with activities focused to future world. On the other hand, new study techniques propose radical changes in the behavior mental in front of challenges of a society that search getting an equilibrium social and economic. So, each epoch marks the end and the beginning of something new where creativity plays an important role in the advance or deterioration of a civilization. References Compton, A. (Direccià ³n). (2012). The Finland Phenomenon [Pelà ­cula]. Hancock, L. (- de 09 de 2011). Smithsonian.com. Obtenido de Smithsonian.com: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/why-are-finlands-schools-successful-49859555/ Ossola, A. (12 de 11 de 2014). The Atlantic. Obtenido de The Atlantic: http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2014/11/the-creative-scientist/382633/ Robinson, K. (2010). Ted Ideas Worth Spreading. Obtenido de Ted Ideas Worth Spreading: https://www.ted.com/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kil l_creativity?language=en Segal, S. (20 de 5 de 2016). World Economic Forum. Obtenido de World Economic Forum: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2016/05/a-case-for-disruption-in-latin-america-s-classrooms/

The Dormant Roots and the Open Faces of Crime Essay

The Dormant Roots and the Open Faces of Crime - Essay Example This has resulted in a plethora of theories, which has been relegated as obsolete information. Christian thought stressed the personal responsibility in wrongdoing and the gateway to return from the path of wrong is repentance, the aim of which is the ultimate salvation of the individual soul. Till the end of the eighteenth century the study of criminal interest was the domain, chiefly of reformers. 19th century witnessed more attempts to study crime as a science, which has to be studied with the tools of experimentation and statistical evidence to arrive at objective scientific conclusions. The early flowering of the study of crime took many directions in a somewhat phased manner over the course of time finally in the past two decades blossomed in to overabundance of theories due to a host of divergent and complementary movements. Today's world is postmodern, multicultural, post -Marxian, post-feminist and post-structural. After the death-knell of many movements that appeared on the social life of modern societies with great fanfare, people have discarded simplistic notions of life and are more prepared to appreciate the reality of the complexities of social behaviour. The traditional one-dimensional explanations of crime and its prevention, which visualized human beings and societies in to watertight compartments is hardly convincing today. While the old school had glimpses of truth, the analysis and conclusions are inadequate and do not consider some of the essential factors before pronouncing their verdicts on the roots of crime and its expressions. The present day scholarship across the world is demanding a more integrated approach to the study of criminal behaviour and its reduction. A significant work of early days of criminology, The Criminal Man, 1876, by the Italian scholar Lombroso asserted that criminals are separate physical and biological type. His over simplistic identification of the criminal type are based on physical traits, like a long lower jaw, asymmetric cranium and a few other external detectable conditions. These traits according to him indicated an inherent propensity to crime. He taught that the propensity toward crime was due to a primitive level of human development, which asserts atavistic tendencies. Lombroso's theories now enjoys only the value of a historic curiosity as their formulation have not been accompanied enough research and statistical data analysis so as to be recognized as theories of universal applicability. The study was conducted in a limited geographic frame. The study was conducted on people who get convicted, comparing them with people who are free. Even in the modern days of sophisticated crime tracking the number of people who get arrested are very few and among them most of them are acquitted due to the loopholes of law. Gault quotes Garofalo who says: The fact is well known that not the half of those guilty of established crimes are brought to justice (94). So one may be weighing against criminals and non-criminals, with criminals, or criminals in jail with unapprehended criminals. Gault while admiring Lombroso, as a trailer blazer in the infancy of criminology, derides his simplistic conclusions in a most complex behaviour of humans. Lombroso's was a too s imple formulation of an extraordinarily complex problem (94). Lombros's theories were accepted also by

Globalization and Human Rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Globalization and Human Rights - Essay Example This work talks about globalization and its effect on human rights. Globalization tends to refer to the economic systems that have been put into place in order for free trade to occur more easily. However, there is also a different kind of globalization which may be identified as an international â€Å"human rights regime†. In some sense the idea that occurrences within individual countries are the concern and responsibility of all countries was created with the Nuremberg trials of Nazi war criminals and the creation of the United Nations, one of whose purposes was to stop such genocide occurring again. However, as the events in Rwanda have shown, attempts to stop genocide have often been haphazard and/or non-existent. Concerning Rwanda, the essay talks that there are some bright spots within the history of the genocide in Rwanda. These suggest that it is the actions of individuals, rather than worldwide organizations that may in fact be able to at least partially alleviate what occurs in such terrible times. The paper concludes that, after the genocide of World War II the world decided, through the body of the United Nations, that it would no longer allow genocide to occur. Unfortunately, countries that are remote from others, or in perceived â€Å"unimportant† areas of the world – such as Africa – tend to be left to deal with their own problems. It seems obvious that if genocide had been occurring in a country such as the United Kingdom then America would have intervened the next day. This is reality, a sad reality, but undeniable nevertheless.

Thomas Paine Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Thomas Paine - Research Proposal Example In July 1761, he returned to his native town of Thetford to work as a supernumerary officer for a bit more than one year. After that Paine moved to Lincolnshire and became an exciseman. His service continued until August 1765, when he was fired for "claiming to have inspected goods he did not inspect" (Conway, 1892). In 1767 Paine became a schoolteacher in London, but that occupation was also rather short: the next year he again took the position of exciseman Lewes, East Sussex. His service lasted for the next six years during which Paine serviced as exciseman and simultaneously managed a small tobacco shop. In 1771 he married Elizabeth Ollive and for the first time involved in the political issues: he joined the Society of Twelve, a local group of thinkers that periodically met to politics of the local authorities. In the beginning of 1774, Paine was again fired from his service and his tobacco shop collapsed so that he had to sell his household possessions to rid himself of debts. The second marriage was also childless and not happy. In 1774 he legally divorced Elizabeth Ollive and moved to London where he got acquainted with Benjamin Franklin, and in October same year upon receiving the letter of recommendation from Franklin who administered emigration to colonial America at that time, Thomas Paine traveled to Philadelphia (Ayer, 1990). The travel was very difficult and Paine barely survived it: it took him 6 weeks to fully recover. After recovery, he settled in Philadelphia, changed his birth name to 'Paine', and began to work as a journalist for the Pennsylvania Magazine (Conway, 1892). Strong eloquent style of Paine's articles and pamphlets immediately earned him a reputation of radical uncompromising fighter for the natural rights of man and freedom. On January 10, 1776, one Paine's most famous pamphlets known Common Sense was published. Some historians believe that the pamphlet became arguably the most essential piece of writing that had strong social and political influence on those day's developments that eventually led up to independence (Larkin, 2005). In particularly, Paine stated that: "Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one: for when we suffer, or are exposed to the same miseries by a Government, which we might expect in a country without Government, our calamity is heightened by reflecting that we furnish the means by which we suffer. Government, like dress, is the badge of lost innocence; the palaces of kings are built upon the ruins of the bowers of paradise" (Paine, 1776). Such very sharp and radical stance was the distinct feature of Paine's writing. Thus, he dismissed the King as a fool (labeled King George III as "the Royal Brute of Great Britain" (Jensen, 1968, p. 668) claiming that heredity is not always and not necessarily related with natural ability, that Britain used the colonies solely for obtaining profits treating the colonists in unacceptable fashion. Paine also urged the colonies to unite as quickly as possible to effectively protect their rights and believed that the only possible way to do so was to become fully independent: "Until an independence is declared, the continent will feel itself like a man who continues

Why does bullying occur among prisoners Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Why does bullying occur among prisoners - Essay Example Finally, the psychological forms of bullying comprise manipulating societal interrelations, extortion and scattering rumors (Blazer, 2005). The behaviors concerning bullying take place in every sphere of life such as in families, schools as well as in the workplaces. The effects of bullying behaviors might result in increased level of depression, fear, sadness and illness among others. In general, it can be stated that certain individuals generally perform bullying behaviors with the intention of exercising full control as well as domination particularly over the weaker individuals (Lines, 2007). Â  The significant aspect of bullying amid the prisoners has undoubtedly become a significant concern and it is regarded as a behavior that generally takes place amid every sort of prisoners whether young, men, adult or women. Different sorts of bullying can impose significant impacts upon the attitudes as well as the behaviors of the prisoners to a greater extent. Moreover, the effects of bullying can severely affect the lives of the prisoners in terms of generating fear as well as tension, physical injuries, depression, and illness (Ireland, 2002). Â  This paper intends to conduct a detailed literature review based analysis about the significant aspect of bullying that occurs among the prisoners in prisons. The structure of this paper will be designed by considering a descriptive as well as a critical evaluation along with a conclusion concerning the aforementioned subject matter. In this connection, the source materials that would be used for analyzing the aforesaid topic are renowned published journals and books along with pertinent online sources. Â  According to Tahir and Konstantinos (2011), bullying is regarded to be a persistent problem wherein the incident rates are incessantly rising significantly in the developed as well as underdeveloped nations.

Climate Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Climate - Assignment Example The main theme of this article is to offer detailed information regarding the harassment of the weather scientists by various sections of society, especially the fossil fuel industry. Since the scientific community has identified exploitation of fossil fuel as the main reason for global warming, this section of society has been prosecuting them on various levels, in spite of mounting evidence. Climate change can be broadly defined as the long-term time period shift in weather statistics including the average climate (NOAA, 2007). One of main concerns in environmental study is global warming with the continuous increase in temperature all over the world. It is also one of the topics that are hotly debated between various sections of the modern society (US National Academy of Sciences & the Royal Society, 2008). Mann begins by saying that weather scientists who are working in this area are gathering mounting evidences regarding the increase of surface warming all over the world. One such source is the thermometers that are monitoring the changes in hundreds and thousands of locations all over the world and recording those changes at a permanent location. The scientists are also getting indirect estimates from such sources as the ice cores as well as tree rings; for calculation of change in temperature during past years (US National Academy of Sciences & the Royal Society, 2008). Since last few decades, there are many theories that seek to explain the reason of the global warming such as the cycle of sun spots and changes in Earth climate, natural variability of the climate or changes due to human activity. Mann states that as per some climatologists, the main source of global warming is the sun spots and the 11 year Sun–cycle. The energy output of the Sun varies considerably depending on the abundance of some isotopes of beryllium or carbon atoms and number of sunspots. But, as per the evidence that

Thomas Paine Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Thomas Paine - Research Proposal Example In July 1761, he returned to his native town of Thetford to work as a supernumerary officer for a bit more than one year. After that Paine moved to Lincolnshire and became an exciseman. His service continued until August 1765, when he was fired for "claiming to have inspected goods he did not inspect" (Conway, 1892). In 1767 Paine became a schoolteacher in London, but that occupation was also rather short: the next year he again took the position of exciseman Lewes, East Sussex. His service lasted for the next six years during which Paine serviced as exciseman and simultaneously managed a small tobacco shop. In 1771 he married Elizabeth Ollive and for the first time involved in the political issues: he joined the Society of Twelve, a local group of thinkers that periodically met to politics of the local authorities. In the beginning of 1774, Paine was again fired from his service and his tobacco shop collapsed so that he had to sell his household possessions to rid himself of debts. The second marriage was also childless and not happy. In 1774 he legally divorced Elizabeth Ollive and moved to London where he got acquainted with Benjamin Franklin, and in October same year upon receiving the letter of recommendation from Franklin who administered emigration to colonial America at that time, Thomas Paine traveled to Philadelphia (Ayer, 1990). The travel was very difficult and Paine barely survived it: it took him 6 weeks to fully recover. After recovery, he settled in Philadelphia, changed his birth name to 'Paine', and began to work as a journalist for the Pennsylvania Magazine (Conway, 1892). Strong eloquent style of Paine's articles and pamphlets immediately earned him a reputation of radical uncompromising fighter for the natural rights of man and freedom. On January 10, 1776, one Paine's most famous pamphlets known Common Sense was published. Some historians believe that the pamphlet became arguably the most essential piece of writing that had strong social and political influence on those day's developments that eventually led up to independence (Larkin, 2005). In particularly, Paine stated that: "Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one: for when we suffer, or are exposed to the same miseries by a Government, which we might expect in a country without Government, our calamity is heightened by reflecting that we furnish the means by which we suffer. Government, like dress, is the badge of lost innocence; the palaces of kings are built upon the ruins of the bowers of paradise" (Paine, 1776). Such very sharp and radical stance was the distinct feature of Paine's writing. Thus, he dismissed the King as a fool (labeled King George III as "the Royal Brute of Great Britain" (Jensen, 1968, p. 668) claiming that heredity is not always and not necessarily related with natural ability, that Britain used the colonies solely for obtaining profits treating the colonists in unacceptable fashion. Paine also urged the colonies to unite as quickly as possible to effectively protect their rights and believed that the only possible way to do so was to become fully independent: "Until an independence is declared, the continent will feel itself like a man who continues

Climate Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Climate - Assignment Example The main theme of this article is to offer detailed information regarding the harassment of the weather scientists by various sections of society, especially the fossil fuel industry. Since the scientific community has identified exploitation of fossil fuel as the main reason for global warming, this section of society has been prosecuting them on various levels, in spite of mounting evidence. Climate change can be broadly defined as the long-term time period shift in weather statistics including the average climate (NOAA, 2007). One of main concerns in environmental study is global warming with the continuous increase in temperature all over the world. It is also one of the topics that are hotly debated between various sections of the modern society (US National Academy of Sciences & the Royal Society, 2008). Mann begins by saying that weather scientists who are working in this area are gathering mounting evidences regarding the increase of surface warming all over the world. One such source is the thermometers that are monitoring the changes in hundreds and thousands of locations all over the world and recording those changes at a permanent location. The scientists are also getting indirect estimates from such sources as the ice cores as well as tree rings; for calculation of change in temperature during past years (US National Academy of Sciences & the Royal Society, 2008). Since last few decades, there are many theories that seek to explain the reason of the global warming such as the cycle of sun spots and changes in Earth climate, natural variability of the climate or changes due to human activity. Mann states that as per some climatologists, the main source of global warming is the sun spots and the 11 year Sun–cycle. The energy output of the Sun varies considerably depending on the abundance of some isotopes of beryllium or carbon atoms and number of sunspots. But, as per the evidence that

Advantage of science Essay Example for Free

Advantage of science Essay Science gives us safe food, free from harmful bacteria, in clean containers or hygienic tins. It also teaches us to eat properly, indicating a diet balanced in protein and carbohydrate and containing vitamins. The results is freedom from disease and prolonged life. In pre-scientific days, food was monotonous and sometimes dangerous; today it is safe and varied. It is varied because through improved sea, land and air transport food can now be freely imported and exported. Science has also improved clothing and made it more appropriate for climatic and working conditions. Man-made fibers and versatile spinning machines, today enable us to dress in clothes both comfortable and smart without being expensive. Home, school and office all bear witness to the progress and application of science. Nowadays, most homes possess electric lighting and cooking, but many also have washing machines, vacuum cleaners and kitchen appliances, all designed to increase comfort and cleanliness and reduce drudgery. Science produces the fan which cools the air, the machinery which makes the furniture and fabrics, and hundred and one other features for good living. The books and papers are at school, and again everything from the piece of chalk to the closed-circuit television of instruction are the direct or indirect results of scientific progress. Learning is therefore easier. And clerical work is made far more speedy and efficient by the office typewriter, quite apart from the hundreds of different machines which relieve the manual worker of so much slow and monotonous toil in the factories. The first and the major advantage is that medical science is very progressive and vastly available. Without the needed technology a lot of people would struggle with their health. More complicated treatments are being carried out successfully, by means of science and technology. These include surgeries, heart and kidney transplant, artificial inseminations and many others. These treatments are saving many innocent lives. The point is to spread it, and reach with medicine help to the poor nations of the Third World. Again, advanced technology improves industry by making it more effective and, what is vital today, safer for environment. Modern technology has introduced various sophisticated machines into our industries which is increasing productivity at a very fast rate. Work that required technological advancements have made the world a smaller place to live in Dissemination : whether spreading  information, broadcasting news, or sharing knowledge, technology has made it faster, easier, and smarter. Education Disadvantage  with the new science and technology developments most people underestimate the damage it gives us. First of all, I would like to say, that with these new science and technical appliances people became to be lazy. They rarely go out to work on foot or by a bicycle. Now there are a lot of modern cars in the cities, which are said to be emitting less gas. But still their emitted gasses damage the environment, so to my mind, that is why pollution of our environment is increasing. Secondly, it seems to me, that technologies are throwing away our free time. For example, these new laptop computer or those touch-screen devices are full of entertaining programs, which are attracting people effectively. Then people forget how to communicate with others in real life, not through international communication systems like â€Å"Skype† or â€Å"Facebook†.

The Kalabagh Dam Consequences

The Kalabagh Dam Consequences The Kalabagh dam is controversial for many reasons. A key reason has to do with the decision making process, which is highly centralized, politically coercive, and technically flawed. Regrettably, when the need is for broad-based stakeholder consultations, the existing trend is towards even greater centralization. For instance, the rotating chairmanship of the Indus River System Authority has recently been converted into a permanent appointment, provincial resolutions against Kalabagh have been given short shrift, the Council of Common Interests (CCI) has consistently ignored the matter and community concerns continue to be met with blatant disregard. Small wonder then that the political leadership in the smaller provinces and civil society are up in arms against Kalabagh. In this essay, we critically examine four contested aspects of the Kalabagh dam. These relate to: water availability; environmental impacts; food and energy; and technical and financial feasibility. The work of colleagues is gratefully acknowledged. Water availability is an over riding concern. Is surplus water available to justify the Kalabagh project? WAPDA itself the generic source has sown confusion on this issue. It cites two average flow figures: 123 MAF (million acre-feet) and 143 MAF. The first calculation is based on a 64-year period (1922-1996) and includes both wet and dry cycles. The second estimate is based on a much shorter and wet cycle period of 22 years (1977-1994). Since the total requirement (inclusive of the additional allocation of 12 MAF under the 1991 Water Accord), is calculated at 143 MAF, there is a clear short fall of 20 MAF if we use the first estimate. This means Kalabagh may remain dry every 4 out of 5 years. Even the higher flow figure (143 MAF) overlooks certain factors. The first of these is system (evaporation and seepage) losses. If such losses increased from 6.2 MAF post Mangla to 14.7 MAF post-Tarbela, presumably, they will be even higher post-Kalabagh. This would have adverse implications for inter-provincial water distribution. New irrigation infrastructure appears untenable in view of these losses, since the increased upstream off-takes would be at the expense of downstream flows. This concern is also ignored when presenting Kalabagh as a replacement for Tarbela. Tarbela is projected to lose 5.3 MAF of its storage capacity by the year 2010. Since Kalabagh would, essentially, be replacing this loss, the Right and Left Bank canals would divert even more of Sindhs allocations than they presently are. In addition, illegal off-takes would also tend to be exacerbated. Consider now the environmental implications of constructing yet another large dam on the Indus River ecosystem. A catalogue of existing degradation provides the context for future environmental impacts of dams like Kalabagh. Degradation of the Indus delta ecosystem, as a result of reduced water outflows, is already a highly visible phenomenon. The present level of silt discharge, estimated at 100 million tons per year, is a four-fold reduction from the original level before large dams were constructed on the River Indus. The combination of salt-water intrusion (some reports show this as 30 km inland), and reduced silt and nutrient flows has changed the character of the delta considerably. The area of active growth of the delta has reduced from an original estimate of 2,600 sq. km (growing at 34 meters per year) to about 260 sq. km. The consequent ravages to the ecosystem have been exceptionally severe, in particular to the mangroves, which are its mainstay. They sustain its fisheries, act as natural barriers against sea and storm surges, keep bank erosion in check and are a source of fuel wood, timber, fodder and forest products, a refuge for wildlife and a potential source of tourism. Without mangroves and the nutrients they recycle and the protection they provide, other components of the ecosystem would not survive. The direct and indirect benefits of mangroves are enormous. In 1988, Pakistan earned Rs.2.24 billion from fish exports, of which shrimps and prawns constituted 72%. Additional income is generated from fuelwood, fodder and forest products was another Rs.100/- million. Not only is this revenue at risk from mangrove loss, but the physical infrastructure required to replace the natural protection provided by the mangroves (dykes, walls) would entail enormously high capital and maintenance costs. The health of mangroves is directly linked to fresh water inflows. Releases below Kotri barrage in most years and excluding floods average 10 MAF. Of this, little or none actually reaches the mangroves. The rest is lost due to evaporation or diversions. According to the Sindh Forestry Department, about 27 MAF is required to maintain the existing 260,000 ha. of mangroves in reasonably healthy condition. This is 27 MAF more than currently available, a situation which has contributed to ecosystem instability and mangrove loss. Within the framework of the Indus Water Accord, an additional 12 MAF would be diverted for upstream dam construction including Kalabagh. This would reduce existing sub-optimal flows further and aggravate an already critical situation. A community of about 100,000 people, residing on the northern side of the Indus Delta, depends on the mangroves for their livelihood. The prevailing view is that being under privileged, such communities are prone to degrade their environment. However, it is difficult to fathom why poor communities should endanger the very basis of their existence. The more likely explanation is that community practices have not changed, but they appear unsustainable because the resource base has begun to degrade. Communities are more often the victims than the agents of such degradation are. The real culprits are water diversion; biological and chemical water contamination and large-scale commercial practices, compounded both by institutional ignorance and complicity in such practices. Mangrove loss is only one among the many manifestations of biodiversity deficits emerging along the entire length of the Indus River ecosystem. The ecosystem has been severely fragmented over time by its extensive network of dams, canals and barrages, resulting in threats to a variety of species and organisms, the most notable among them being the Indus dolphin and the palla fish. Both can be classified as indicator species, as their impending loss represents the loss of a way of life, characterized by interdependence between communities and their environment. Another myth firmly embedded in the minds of our planners is that large dams are the perfect flood prevention devices. The evidence for Pakistan shows otherwise; that its large dams not withstanding, there has been no reduction in the incidence and intensity of floods nor in the associated losses in lives, crops, livestock and infrastructure. There is no seeming pattern to the floods other than the fact that they could have coincided with wet cycles. In actual fact, the severity of flood impacts appears to have increased after the two major dams, Tarbela and Mangla, were constructed. In actual fact, the shrinking of the riverbeds due to water diversions reduces their absorptive capacity and hence enhances the danger of flooding. River ecosystems have a natural capacity to deal with floods and these natural processes provide many benefits. Flood plains, wetlands, backwaters are commonly referred to as natures sponges; they absorb and purify excess water as a hedge against lean periods. They act as spawning grounds for fish and wildfowl. The floods themselves replenish agricultural soils. Communities living around these areas adapt to this natural rhythm and use its bounty to ensure reliable and sustainable livelihoods. It has also been pointed out that dams dont prevent floods, they merely create flood threat transfer mechanisms. The solution is to work with communities, rely on their knowledge and to supplement their flood mitigation and coping strategies. Two of the most commonly cited arguments in favor of large dams relate to food security and energy. Such arguments have become increasingly compelling in the light of perceived threats to food security and the recent furor surrounding the private power projects. We examine both of these arguments in turn. Additional water from Kalabagh can enhance crop production in three ways: by irrigating new land; by enhancing cropping intensity on existing land; or through yield enhancement. The first option appears tenuous. It is claimed that Kalabagh will irrigate close to an additional million hectares of barren land, and bring Pakistan closer to wheat self-sufficiency. However, the reports of the National Commission on Agriculture and the National Conservation Strategy suggest otherwise. They indicate that available cultivable land is almost fully utilized, leaving little scope for extensive cultivation. Between 1952 and 1977, about 80% of the increase in total cropped area was due to the cu ltivation of new land. Since then, this proportion has fallen dramatically, with double cropping accounting for the bulk of the increase. The reports suggest that in addition to the water constraint a very tangible land constraint exists as well. Crop production can also be increased through cropping intensity increases or crop yield enhancements. Both are water dependent and establish an a priori justification for Kalabagh. The NCS report states that at present 12.2 million hectares of land are available for double cropping while only 4.4 million hectares are being double cropped clearly water is the constraining factor. With respect to yield enhancements, water is again required in large quantities by the high yielding seed varieties (wheat, cotton, rice, maize) and for its synergetic effects upon chemical inputs. However, a critical choice needs to be made here. Does one opt for additional water, or can the same results be achieved through improved water use efficiency? Higher water retention in the system risks aggravating an already massive problem of water logging and salinity. In fact, the controversial and exorbitantly expensive ($780 million), 25-year National Drainage Plan project has been launched to mitigate its impacts. Kalabagh is bound to add to the problem, not only in its immediate environs but also where new irrigation infrastructure is to be situated. A clearly preferred choice is to use existing water more efficiently, and to focus on the necessary institutional changes for its equitable distribution. Some of the proposed measures are canal and watercourse rehabilitation, land leveling, improved on-farm water management and, at the policy level, switching demand based management while protecting the needs of the poor small farmers. These are clearly win-win solutions as they are relatively low cost, efficient, equitable and environmentally friendly. After the recent commotion over private power, the government began to hype up Kalabagh as an alternative source of cheap and clean energy. In the process, it switched adroitly from its earlier position that energy demand had been overstated, to one where it now posits a deficiency in supply. However, the cheap energy argument is becoming increasingly untenable both financially and technically. Donors such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank are unlikely to provide concessional funding for Kalabagh. This reflects their commitment to the thermal based private power projects, as well as the censure they have faced for getting embroiled in projects with major environmental and resettlement costs. And even if concessional funding was available, it is still not clear that hydel unit costs would be lower than thermal, once these costs are factored in. At this point, the whole debate appears to be moot since the government is scampering for funds to keep the economy afloat against the backdrop of sanctions. Even so, renewed policy statements suggest there is a resolve to proceed when the situation permits. Apart from the political compulsions, there is an inertial aspect to this decision as well. Institutional and financial paralysis inhibits the scope for energy conservation, efficiency improvements and diversification. The options have been identified often enough: on the supply side these are reduction of transmission and distribution (TD) losses and renewable energy development technologies (solar, wind, biomass). On the demand side, both technical and economic options exist for energy conservation. While these have been employed to some extent (tariff increases, energy efficient lighting), the efforts are a far cry from the kind of sustained initiatives launched in some South Asian countries, such as Thailand, where revamped e nergy supply systems are part of a larger network, with linkages to RD, the private sector and trade facilities. The title of a study Tarbela Dam Sedimentation Management, carried out by TAMS-Wallingford (March 1998) is self-explanatory. It shows that a de-silted Tarbela would yield the same irrigation benefits as Kalabagh, but at one-seventh the cost in net present value terms. The study states that, replacement of [irrigation and energy] benefits by constructing a new dam and reservoir down stream is feasible, but will be expensive, environmentally damaging and socially harmful. An alternative option cited is the construction of new outlets at the Tarbela Dam that will enable sediment to be flushed from the reservoir. The proposed Tarbela Action Plan is based on computer simulations of sediment flows. These simulations were designed to determine whether flushing was technically feasible and could be used to enhance long run storage capacity and to predict future sedimentation. Based on these simulations, a three phased action plan was proposed. The implementation of this plan would ensure long term and sustainable storage with only a small annual reduction in capacity. The estimated increase in retention at 6 MAF is exactly what the Kalabagh reservoir is designed to hold. Our conclusion is that the burden of proof is on those who advocate building the Kalabagh Dam. Our findings show that it is not economically, socially or environmentally viable. Also, the proposed benefits are based on faulty or misunderstood premises and, in any case, there exist in each case more viable and cost effective alternatives.

CanadasTwo-Tier Healthcare System Essay -- Healthcare

CANADA HAS TWO-TIER HEALTH CARE SYSTEM The issue of a universal approach to Canadian Health Care has been contended for several years. Canada's national health insurance program, or Medicare, was designed to ensure that all people can have medical, hospital and physician services. The cost is to be paid for by Ontario medical insurance program (OHIP). The Canada Health Act was intended to represent certain principles of our health care system. It was intended to be a symbol of the Canadian values. Those values are fairness equity and togetherness. This oneness of a universal approach is what we call the one tier system. Many Canadians still believe the official government stand on this: Canada’s medical insurance covers all needs and services for every insured citizen. Officially then, there is a one level health care system. This paper shall argument that Canada has a two tier health care system. Those who would claim that Canada’s health care is a universal one tier system could refer to the legal terms of the Canada Health Care Act. In particular, the point that states, â€Å"Universality: All insured residents are entitled to the same level of health care.† (â€Å"Canada Health Care Act†, 2007). In fact, many Canadians feel they have a right to be covered financially for any and all medical costs. According to the Globe & Mail, â€Å"Canadians have developed an incredible sense of Medicare entitlement: They want all care for all people, instantly and free of charge.† (Andre, 2009). It is true that the original intention was to make health care services available for Canadians, but the guidelines offer the same service to Canadians covered by the health plan. However, certain problems arose and modifications were needed because not al... ... Works Cited Andre, P. (2009, October 16). Our two-tiered health system: a rural-urban split. The Globe & Mail. Retrieved from http://www.theglobeandmail.com Canada Health Care Act. (2007). Canada Health Care. Retrieved from http://www.canadianhealthcare.org National Bureau of Economic Research. (2007). Health status, health care and inequality: Canada versus U.S. June, E.O. Retrieved from http://www.nber.org/authors_papers/david_oneill Ottawa, provinces to begin talks for health deal. (2011, November 22). The Canadian press. Retrieved from http://www.ctv.ca Prime minister finally admits two-tier health care exists: McDonough. (2000, November 13). The Canadian Press. Retrieved from http:// search.proquest.com.ezproxy.library.yorku.ca Shouldice Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.shouldice.com/what_to_expect.htm

The Illiad In Dantes Inferno :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Iliad in Dante’s Inferno   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dante makes many references to Homer and the Iliad throughout the Inferno. The fates of favorite characters are described during the course of Dante’s travels. Beginning with his vision of Homer in Limbo, continuing through increasingly gory levels of Hell until Dante reaches the eighth bolgia where he meets Ulysses who is engulfed in fire. Dante’s infatuation with the Iliad is clearly illustrated in his Divine Comedy.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dante introduces Homer early in the Inferno. After the writer passes the gates of Hell and safely crosses the Acheron he is in the most comfortable section of Hell. Homer, along with other virtuous pagans(those who were not enlightened by Christ’s appearance on earth) and unbaptised children are there. Homer is spending eternity with philosophers, poets, and writers. The first circle has light and a sense of comfort, two things it doesn’t share with any other level of Hell. The only torture Homer has to endure is the lack of hope for salvation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dante’s next stop (after his confrontation with Minos) is the second circle where the carnal are relegated. In this circle he meets three main players in Homer’s Iliad, Paris, Achilles, and Helen. All of the inhabitants of this circle are swept up like leaves in a storm, denied the light and reason of God they are eternally dammed to ride the hurricane like winds around the second circle.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Much later in his journey Dante meets the man who conceived the Trojan Horse. Ulysses is in the eighth bolgia among his fellow evil counselors. He is is entrapped in a tongue of flame with his partner in crime, Diomede. The flame comes from one source but is spilt in two, the split symbolizes the falling-out that must come in a partnership based in evil. Ulysses is placed in this circle for many reasons. During the Trojan war he gave birth to the deadly idea that the Achains build infamous Trojan Horse. He also caused the death of Deidamia, Achilles lover when he talked Achilles into leaving her to go to Troy.

Intention to create legal relations Essay

Before looking at if the intention to create legal relations should be used to replace consideration, it is important to look at how these doctrines fit into the essential elements in a contract. Their use will then be discussed, together with the doctrine of promissory estoppel. In evaluating these principles reference will be made to case law, judicial comment and of leading contract academics work. Finally, thought will be given to the future of consideration, and if it is still necessary today, when so many other countries have adopted alternative approaches to ensuring that contracts are binding. In the formation of contracts two elements are vital. Firstly, the â€Å"offer,† an indication by one person prepared to contract with another, on certain terms, which are fixed, or capable of being fixed at the time the offer is made.[1] Secondly, there must be an â€Å"acceptance†, an unconditional assent to a definite offer.[2] These two combine to create certainty that a contract has been formed, for, as in Scammell v Ouston (1941),[3] â€Å"if an agreement is uncertain on some important issue†¦the courts will hold there is no contract.†[4] Following this, the elements of consideration and intent provide the contract’s â€Å"body and substance†[5] So, what is meant by â€Å"consideration† and â€Å"the intention to create legal relations†? English law usually requires proof that the parties have made a bargain, or agreement,[6] this is known as the benefit and detriment test. (Currie v Misa (1875))[7] or † a benefit to one party or a detriment to another.†[8] So, in practical terms consideration can be defined as what one party in an agreement is giving, or promising, in exchange for what is being given, or promised, by the other side. [9] This provides mutuality, making the contract enforceable. The Oxford Dictionary of Law definition states, â€Å"Consideration is essential to the validity of any contract other than one made by deed. Without consideration an agreement not made by deed is not binding; it is a nudum pactum (naked agreement) governed by the maxim ex nudo pacto non oritur action (a right of action does not arise out of a naked agreement.)†[10] English law does not rely on formali ties as a way of identifying intention to create a legally binding contract. Instead it focuses on offer, acceptance and consideration.[11] If these are present,  and unless rebutted by contrary evidence, courts operate on the basis of two legal presumptions, that there is no intention to be bound in domestic or social arrangements, but there is intention to be bound in commercial agreements.[12] Professor B.A.Hepple claims that there is no need of a separate requirement of intention, and that a bargain, involving mutuality is sufficient. These views are not generally accepted as it is widely agreed that identifying the parties’ intentions is essential to the role of the courts when establishing if a contract was made.[13] (mf†¦) It is useful to look at why English law has become so reliant on the consideration element of a contract, and why it has frequently been used as the â€Å"badge of enforceability,†[14] Professor Atiyah argues that â€Å"consideration† originally meant a â€Å"reason for enforcing an agreement.†[15] Early forms of contract law mainly involved agreements regarding debt, covenant, or detinue ie., wrongful detention of property, and were only binding if under seal. This method, which required a degree of form such as writing or a deed, was used to prevent fraud and proved that there was an intention to create legal relations. Consideration was first used in the sixteenth century when, in order to enforce informal agreements, the law of assumsit was developed.[16] So, while that the law would, â€Å"†¦still not enforce merely gratuitous promises, †¦ the law had to develop an element that could distinguish between a proper contractual agreement, and somethin g less that would not.†[17] Due to the Law of Property Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1989, form is still required for contracts involving the sale of land. It is also used to offer consumers protection in hire purchase and consumer credit agreements. In the English Common law system, a promise is not legally binding as part of a contract except if it is made in a deed or supported by some consideration. [18] Sir Guenter Treitel Q.C., describes the purpose of consideration as,  Ã¢â‚¬Å"†¦to put some legal limits on the enforceability of agreements even where they are intended to be legally binding and are not vitiated by some factor  such as mistake, misrepresentation, duress or illegality.†[19] This is a peculiarity found only in English law. In some civil law countries, promises that in England would not be considered binding due to â€Å"lack of consideration,† can be enforced if they have been made in some notarised writing. The European Civil Law systems were formed around the fifteenth century and based on the Roman Catholic Code of Canon law and the value of good faith. Due to this, their courts take the view that all lawful and sincere agreements are contracts.[20] As English law has developed there has been an insistence on the use of consideration and intention to create legal relations in order to enforce a contract. (Balfour v Balfour (1919))[21] Although it may not be easy to find consideration in a contract, (Ward v Byham (1956))[22] it could be asked why it is thought to be necessary at all. Originally, the basic idea of consideration was to show that A had bought B’s promise.[23] (Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Co Ltd v Selfridge & Co Ltd (1915))[24] However, there was a general principle of non-interference in the concerns of other people. Therefore, the doctrine was not strictly enforced; it was enough to provide sufficiency of consideration it did not have to be adequate. This meant that, â€Å"the consideration provided by one party need not equal in value the consideration provided by the other party.†[25](Thomas v Thomas (1842))[26] Since this case it was assumed that consideration must have at least some economic value, and that it must be, â€Å"†¦something which has some value in the eye of the law.†[27] (mf†¦) The use of the word â€Å"sufficiency† also causes uncertainty. Courts have decided it must be real, not as in White v Bluett (1853)[28] where a son tried to use a promise to stop complaining over the distribution of his father’s property as consideration. Although, there was an economic element, as a father promised not to enforce the repayment of a debt owed to him by his son, it was held that, â€Å"The son had no right to complain, for the father might make what  distribution of his property as he liked; and the son’s abstaining from what he had no right to do can be no consideration.†[29] In this case the court took the view that this type of moral obligation could not be used as any form of value, in other cases the courts appear to almost invent consideration so contracts can be enforced.[30] As in Ward v Byham (1956) where â€Å"happiness† was used. In Chappell & Co v Nestle Co Ltd., (1960),[31] the House of Lords held that chocolate wrappers needed to buy records in a special promotion were part of the consideration. The wrappers had no monetary value, for upon receipt Nestle’s would simply discard them.[32] Therefore, even something valueless could be used as consideration. From this it can be seen that consideration does not guarantee fairness of bargains. Indeed it could be argued that, as this would not fit the benefit and detriment test, this type of â€Å"nominal bargain†[33] should not be allowed. This is the most problematic area of the rules surrounding consideration. To start with, the fact that consideration need not be adequate, just sufficient, means it does not need to be of equal value to that which the other party is offering. This could lead to injustice. There could be some perfectly good reason why A sells his Mercedes to B for a token amount, but what if he is under duress, perhaps being blackmailed by B.[34] Similarly, it is quite fair that, as in Stilk v Myrick (1809)[35] performance of an existing contractual duty was held to be insufficient consideration. An employee should not be allowed to hold his employer to ransom in this way, unless it is proven that the situation changed significantly, and he has undertaken a considerable extra workload after the promise of extra pay. (Hartley v Ponsonby (1857))[36] So why do the courts permit the token element in bargains at all? It has been said that, â€Å"consideration was originally the reason for the enforcement of a promise.†[37] Therefore, even token bargains have a purpose by providing evidence that the parties take the agreement seriously, and show an intention to create legal relations. The doctrine of consideration was also used was where alteration promises were made regarding the part payment of debts. The general rule as established in Pinnel’s’ case (1602)[38] was that â€Å"the gift of a horse, hawk or robe, etc in satisfaction is good.† [39] The assumption being that providing something in consideration might be more beneficial to the plaintiff than waiting for the money.[40] This rule was confirmed in the House of Lords in Foakes v Beer (1884)[41]. This â€Å"practical benefit† was also the principle in Williams v Roffey Brothers (1990)[42] where it was advantageous to pay more for the same work. However, the rule in Pinnel’s Case can be avoided by providing â€Å"extra consideration, altering the way payment is made, by paying earlier, at a different time or place or via third party.†[43] Possibly due to this, the Law revision Committee 1937 recommended the abolition of the rule in Pinnel’s Case, but so far t hat has not happened.[44] Lord Denning tried a different approach with his use of the equitable principle of promissory estoppel. In his obiter statement in Central London Property Trust v High Trees House (1947),[45] he stated that, † a promise intended to be binding, intended to be acted upon, and in fact acted on, is binding so far as its terms properly apply.[46] Due to this it was held that a promise could be enforced without consideration if it would be wrong for that person to go back on a promise and there has been a reliance on it.[47] He based his views on Lord Cairns’ comments in the earlier â€Å"equitable waiver† case of Hughes vMetropolitan Railway (1877)[48] It has been suggested that the promisee must have suffered a detriment from reliance on a promise. Lord Denning denied that this was necessary, claiming that someone just needed to have â€Å"acted on the belief induced by the other party.† (W J Alan & Co v El Nasr (1972))[49]. Other limitations exist, promissory estoppel only applies to the modification or discharge of an existing contractual obligation, [50] therefore â€Å"equity is a shield not a sword,† it will not allow someone to use equity to instigate a cause of  action.[51] (Coombe v Coombe (1951)[52] The promise not to enforce rights must be clear and unequivocal, in The Scaptrade (1983)[53] it was held that the fact that they hadn’t enforced their full rights in the past was not sufficient. It must be inequitable for the promisor to go back on his promise, in D & C Builders v Rees (1966)[54], Mrs Rees had forced the builders to accept her cheque by inequitable means and so could not rely on promissory estoppel,[55] for â€Å"he who comes to equity must do so with clean hands.† [56] This doctrine is also contrary to the House of Lords decisions in Jorden v Money ( 1854)[57] and Foakes v Beer (1884) As can be seen from these cases, unlike in the past when a gentleman’s word was his bond, people can no longer be relied upon to keep gratuitous promises, however seriously meant. They are also likely to use litigation if they later wish to go back on them. Treitel points out that, † the doctrine of consideration has attracted much criticism, â€Å"[58] as even the most flimsy evidence is given as consideration, so its use has become somewhat dubious. â€Å"The doctrine is an historical accident; that foreign systems do without.† [59]To overcome these problems, Parliament could extend the scope of existing legislation by using form to prove the intention to create legal relations in more situations than now. That would mean that although not needed for basic everyday events like shopping, or private domestic arrangements; eg., babysitting, all other contracts of a financial or contractual nature would have to have written agreements. As Treitel says, † English law does recognise, in the deed, a perfectly safe and relatively simple means of making gratuitous promises binding.† [60]These would be subject to the usual rules applying to the Sale and Supply of Goods Act 1994, the Consumer Protection Act 1987, the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982, etc., In the event of a dispute regarding a contract with no written agreement, the courts could consider it to be void, as there was no proof of an intention to create legal relations and therefore the contract has no legal effect. Any money paid out under such a contract would be recoverable and any work that has been done maybe compensated on a quantum meruit basis.[61] Care would also have to be taken to ensure the rights of third parties are protected.[62] The use of form as proof of the intention to create legal relations would provide a â€Å"useful safeguard against rash  promises.†[63] Although, â€Å"this does not solve the problem of action in reliance on an informal promise†¦ the court maybe able to give some effect to the promise under the doctrine of waiver or in equity.†[64]