Chinese Mothers and Their Incredible Parenting

In her short article, Chua (2013) takes the readers down the controversial track of striving for perfection as the key slogan for child rearing. Despite the fact that their son or daughter evolving into personalities with wide range of opportunities, numerous skills and even greater assets is a dream of every parent, very few people actually know how to bring children up so that they could become successful. As the latest researches and statistical data say, the rates of literacy and academic performance among the U.S. children are dropping fast.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Chinese Mothers and Their Incredible Parenting specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Their Chinese counterparts, however, seem to be doing much better in terms of academic achievements and striving for achieving perfection, which makes wonder whether the methods of Chinese upbringing is better than the American one. Despite the fact that there are a number of peculiar features of the Chinese upbringing to consider, though, the idea of pushing a child to his/her limits does not seem reasonable either. On the surface, Chua offers a detailed account of why the Chinese children are much better at achieving good academic results and building a better career. However, when taking a closer look at Chua’s argument, one will be able to spot certain similarities between the issues that Chua raises in her piece of writing and the concepts introduced by Cherlin (2013). However, a somewhat closer reading of the article written by Chua begs the question whether the author truly tried to reflect on the difference between the methods of child upbringing in a traditional Chinese and a traditional American family, or whether the article also touched upon certain stereotypes concerning the Asian families or the link between strict upbringing rules and success. As a matter of fact, the very image of a typical â€Å"soccer mom† pushing her child to success does not seem very flattering, either. The given issue raises the question whether parents should exercise strict control over their children’s lives, and at what age the control can possibly be made a little bit less tight. As Cherlin explains, in some respect, parents’ attempt to make their children perfect at whatever they take up as an activity can be viewed through a lens that is, in fact, a bit different from the innocent desire for one’s child to be the leader (Cherlin, 2013a). Instead, Cherlin argues, parents might project their own unaccomplished dreams and desires, therefore, ousting the child’s personality and replacing it with their idea of what their child must be like. Another peculiar issue that Chua raises in her story is the conflicts between parents and children, the things that family members way to each other when they cannot control their temper and the way in which the words that, probably, should not hav e been spoken, affect children afterwards. As Chua recalls, once, during a conflict, her father told her that he was ashamed of her; however, the given phrase not only made Chua feel less important, but also evoke the need for self-improvement.Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Applying the given scenario to the American setting, one has to admit that in most cases, such an interjection would have ultimately led to an even deeper conflict. However, it could also be argued that the given principle could be used in child rearing in order to help parents gain their authority in their children’s eyes (Blaisure et al., 2012). Reference List Blaisure, K. R. et al. (2012). Defining features of military families. In K. R. Blaisure et al. (Eds.), Military families in the 21st century. New York, NY: Routledge. Cherlin, A. J. (2013). Public and private families: An introduction (7th e d.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill. Cherlin, A. J. (2013a). Public and private families: A reader (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill. Chua, A. (2011, Jan 8). Why Chinese mothers are superior. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved from https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704111504576059713528698754 This essay on Chinese Mothers and Their Incredible Parenting was written and submitted by user Camron Knowles to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

great depression Essay Example

great depression Essay Example great depression Paper great depression Paper Many times throughout history the United States has undergone economic depression.The most recognized period of economic depression is called the Great Depression. The Great Depression is well known because of the seriousness of the stock market crash.The results of the crash were more serious than any other crash throughout American History.The Great Depression caused a change in the nature of the American family, an increase in poverty, and President Herbert Hoovers proposal for immediate action by the government, balanced his belief in rugged individualism with the economic necessities. While most Americans are familiar with the Great Depression as a time of economic disaster, it also had an impact on the American Family life.There were obvious differences in the classes as a result of the Great Depression.The lower and the middle classes changed considerably, but the upper class lifestyle did not vary a great deal.(Simmons 41) The fathers role as head of the household became m ore challenging because there were fewer jobs.The expectation was for fathers to work and support their families. The reality of the lower class was that few men brought home paychecks.Some fathers suffered anxiety and a feeling of worthlessness for failing to provide for their families.Many resorted to stealing food and money just to survive.(Simmons 41) Women were offered greater opportunities in the work force, however they tended to take the position of stay-at-home mothers.According to Simmons Men resented employed women for they felt that they were occupying jobs that could be given to unemployed men.(Simmons 43) Children in the lower class were expected to get an education so that they could improve their situation.In addition they were needed at home to help with household chores.Unfortunately, many poor children dropped out of school because of their obligations at home. Children in the middle class were bett

Social Welfare and Social Work Practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Social Welfare and Social Work Practice - Essay Example The Scandinavian Model attempts to provide benefits to all citizens on an equal footing, regardless of employment status. In contrast, The Beveridge Model seeks to provide benefits to those citizens perceived as experiencing "the greatest need" (Ploug). First advocated by the German chancellor Otto von Bismarck, the third model benefits most "those who have been on the labour market" (Ploug), and the fourth model places the burden of welfare on the family. It is with the first two of these models, and the countries in which they are practiced, that this essay is concerned. Quality of life is in large part dictated by the way in which a state runs its welfare policies. Such concepts as social cohesion versus social exclusion are important identifiers of the quality of life that is typical in a state. These things influence and are influenced by such variables as citizenship, migration, and even the state of the family units. State welfare policies often have much to say on these topics. Though many are the domestic factors influencing the direction of a state's policies, these policies are often also influenced by outside factors, such as trade and senior governing bodies. Since its inception, the European Union has implemented policies that have affected the way its member states carry out their own social welfare policies. This supranational body was developed over several decades, and now comprises 25 co-operating European countries. It recognizes its principal goal as being "to promote and expand cooperation among member states in economics and trade, social issues, foreign policy, security and defense, and judicial matters" (Urwin, 2005). Based on the fact that a major goal of the EU is the unification of the European market and the reduction of economic disparities among the member states, many of the policies with which it is concerned also affect the social welfare policies of its member states (2005). In addition, lobbyists for several causes frequent its gates in order to influence the formulation of policy. Though the extent to which the EU exerts influence on its member states is varied, the United Kingdom and Scandinavian countries have h ad to make changes or adjustments to their policies in response to the actions of the European Union. This essay will, therefore, discuss the similarities and differences of the two models represented in these regions in light of social cohesion and exclusion, migration, citizenship and family life. It will also examine the two models in light of ways in which they have changed as a result of the influence of the European Union. The term "Scandinavian welfare model" specifically defines the method of state-run welfare as it exists in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. The type of welfare system represented in this model is often placed in what is known as the "Social-Democratic" camp, though this does not necessarily mean that its tenets are supported solely by the socialist parties of those countries (Ploug). The system is, however, based on the idea of equality, and it recognizes what it considers the right that each individual possesses to the opportunities that will secure a good quality of life. This, therefore, is provided to all citizens regardless of their social or employment status. On the other hand, the social welfare model adopted by the United Kingdom (also known as the Beveridge model) is placed in what is known as the liberal camp. This system was developed "to encourage the provision

Acute chest sydrome Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Acute chest sydrome - Research Paper Example Basically, the illness is defined as follows: â€Å"ACS is the term used to describe a new pulmonary infiltrate with respiratory findings in a person with sickle cell disease.† (Miller, 2011). The causes of Acute Chest Syndrome have been found to be both infectious and noninfectious. Thus causing its treatment modalities to be different and not typical when compared to the treatment of other pulmonary illnesses that might be found in non Sickle Cell patients. Hence the unique nature of Acute Chest Syndrome as a stand alone illness or as part of the Sickle Cell complications. â€Å"2504 febrile events in 466 children with SCD resulted in 466 of the infants acquiring ACS. The incidence of ACS cumulatively decreased over time from 27.0% to 17.4% among febrile children with SCD (P More commonly seen as a complication among children suffering from CSD, ACS has proven to have a peak incidence among children between 2-4 of age, which accounts for 25.3 per 100 patients years among children with hemoglobin SS. The epidemiology of the illness also offers evidence that among patients with SCD; â€Å"ACS is the second most common cause of hospitalization (second to vasoocclusive pain) with a reported rate of 12.8 hospitalizations per 100 patient years. It is the most common cause of death, with one-fourth of SCD-related deaths due to ACS. In a report from the CSSCD, the death rate in patients with ACS is 1.8 percent in children and 4.3 percent in adults.†(Uptodate.com, 2014) Among hospitalized patients with SCD, almost half of those confined can be

HGPS Interface Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

HGPS Interface - Assignment Example Additionally, the system will find more appropriate routes to the destination of users, saving them a lot of money in the air pollution and in gasoline. The cars will therefore be safer in any condition of the weather. Business having larger outlet numbers like the utilities will manage the resources in an efficient manner thus reducing the cost of consumers. The Holographic Global Positioning System will offer the answers in facilitating all these concerns. The Holographic Global Positioning System will offer intelligent location of the vehicle and navigation information that will enable the users avoid freeway that is congested. Additionally, the system will find more appropriate routes to the destination of users, saving them a lot of money in the air pollution and in gasoline (Rabbany, 2002). The cars will therefore be safer in any condition of the weather. Business having larger outlet numbers like the utilities will manage the resources in an efficient manner thus reducing the cost of consumers. The Holographic Global Positioning System will offer the answers in facilitating all these concerns. A Holographic Global Positioning System is positioning systems for radios that will combine techniques of computer mapping in offering the three dimensional position, time information, and velocity it equip the user near the surface of the earth (Blaauw, 1976). The Holographic Positioning System is one of the major developments of wireless communication market (Prentzas, 2010). It is a crucial tool for surveying and map-making and has become one of the most important global utility that is cannot be dispensed for the modern navigation on land. The Holographic Global Positioning System is divided into three parts. The segment for users, control segment, and segment for space. The figure below shows the main components of Holographic Global Positioning System.The space has a space segment composing of GPS satellites that will

Hinduism What Makes It Very Appealing Theology Religion Essay

Hinduism What Makes It Very Appealing Theology Religion Essay South Asia particularly, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan has billions of population who follow and practice Hinduism. Hinduism, todays oldest living religion, is practiced by most of the natives of above countries as well as the people who have migrated from these nations to other parts of the world. Alone in India 82% people are Hindus (Moore 487). Hinduism is a unique religion without fundamentals. It is an agglomeration of religious, cultural, and philosophical ideas and practices. Thereby, Hinduism, a heterogeneous mixture of numerous traditions has its own value and set of beliefs. Hinduism, one of the oldest religions in the history, is a blend of various cultures and is legendary for its controversial origin, religious beliefs, and multiple deities. Hinduism or the religion of Hindus, has largely unknown origins because of its great shape and unclear authors of its sacred texts. There is always a controversy regarding the origin of Hinduism since centuries. The term Hinduism derives from the Persian word that refers to the Sindhu (or Indus) river which is situated in northwest India. Hindu was first used in the 14th century by Arabs, Afghans, and Persians to describe about the people of that region. In spite of this lack of definitive origin, there are two theories, Out of India Theory and Indo Aryan Theory that deal with the history of Hinduism. As per out of India Theory, Hinduism is entirely born in India. The original house of the Hindus was India; later they spread out to central Asia and thence to Europe (Modi 11). Historians, of this theory, generally hold that the origin of Hinduism can be traced to the ancient civilization of Indus Valley. Fairy extensive archeological evidences support this theory of origin before 4,000 years. Found aged rock paintings and depictions in the caves at Northern India are main bases to conclude that Hindus were in India who migrated to north and west later. The second theory or Indo Aryan Theory basically says that a group of nomads called Aryans moved to the India and mixed with the natives. However, this theory of origin has been under contemporary scientists belief and increasing challenge. According to this theory, the Artic, of all places w as the original home of these people who migrated to India in course of centuries. Initially, these migrants populated central Asia, Iran, Afghanistan, and finally India. These pre-historic migrants or Aryans were considered as honorable and noble people, who invaded the Indus valley civilization and invented Hinduism along with the natives. These Aryans spoke a language that in its refined form came to be known as Sanskrit, which is believed to be the oldest language in the world. Due to the lack of supporting proof, this theory has now been proven to be flawed one and is considered nothing more than a myth. According to scholars, the evolution of Hinduism may be divided into three periods: the ancient (6500 BCE-1000 AD), the medieval (1000-1800 AD), and the modern (1800 AD to present). About 1500 B.C. the Indus valley was invaded from the east by the Aryans. By the year 1000, the basic doctrines of Hinduism had been formed, and the ancient period of Hinduism gave way to the medieval period. The modern period of Hinduism began about 1800 with the introduction of British rule into India. In addition to the unclear origin, another reason of Hinduism to be a unique is its basic tenets. Hinduism embraces a great diversity of  beliefs about the universe, God and the path to liberation. In Hinduism, the cosmos is represented by the various elements which represent the mass. In Indian mythology, the whole universe is consists of strong radiation represented by the term OM which is the essence of all mantras, the highest all mantras and the divine word. OM consists of three sounds: the vowel a, the vowel u, and a nasalized m. It is said that OM of Hinduism and Amen of Christianity have similar sound and meaning as well. In case of God, for Hindus, he is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent beyond any attributes of shapes, color, and formà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.In general, Hindus consider God not just as the supreme and almighty one, but also the personal one whom the individual can worship. Basically, the divine trinity of Hinduism is formed by Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh who p ossess the characters corresponding to creation, preservation, and annihilation. Hinduism considers diverse aspects of God, in multifarious form. Thereby, it is sometimes viewed as polytheistic or believing in many gods (Rosen 33). As, Hinduism is a cluster of diverse belief and traditions, the prominent themes of Hinduism include the authority of the Vedas (the oldest Indian sacred texts), the Brahman (the ultimate reality), law of karma, right actions, reincarnation, and liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The Vedas are the most ancient religious texts of Hinduism-indeed; they are the oldest religious texts in an Indo- European language. All the religious realms and divine pantheons are described in the vast corpus of mythological and ritual Vedas. Vyas, a holy priest wrote all these Vedas, that Hindus believe. Even, Lord Krishna mentions about the importance of Vedas in Bhagavad Gita (part of Hindu largest Epic Mahabharat): I am seated in everyones heart and from me come remembrance, knowledge, and forgetfulness. By study of Vedas, the goal is to know only me; and it is only I who truly know these texts, indeed, I am the creator of the final truth (The Bhagavad Gita 15.15). There are four main Vedas where whole Hinduism is elaborated: the Rigveda, the Yajurveda, the Samaveda, and the Atharwaveda. Except Vedas, Hindus believe in caste system too, where Brahmans or Brahmins lie on top. A Brahmin is a member of the highest priestly caste in Hinduism who performs priestly services. Brahmins as well as Vedas are two concepts that are fundamental to Hinduism and differentiate the faith from Buddhism and Jainism. Hindu scriptures explain the ultimate reality as Brahman which is obviously the source of all things. It is said that Brahman is the ultimate mystery without any attributes and qualities which is behind the universe and all the Gods. It is pure, indivisible, infinite, incorporeal, and all pervading likewise the sky. To know about life, it is necessary to know the Brahman and the Atman which is the self, the soul, the principle of individual life. Some people feel that a message of Hinduism is, through meditation and contemplation; an individual must come to realize the fact that the Brahman is Atman. The idea that humans soul transfer into a new body after death is a main theme of Hindu tenet and this process happens over and over in a continuous cycle known as Samsara. Throughout these lives, Karma is the one which keeps an individual imprisoned by trans-migratory cycle and determines the quality of next reincarnation. Karma means deed or action. Each souls unique destiny is determined by the universal law of Karma. Hindus also believe that by good Karma the cycle of Samsara can be escaped when a soul reaches a stage known as  moksha (liberation). One who is free from ignorance and sins is eligible for Mokshya and after this point; the soul will reside in heaven. Moreover, truth, meditation, yoga, piousness, honesty, celibacy, prayers, penance, cleanliness, non-violence are other tenets of Hindus. Hindus perform different religious practices and rites according to the age of an individual with the help of trained priest or chaplain serving family. Naming, weaning, hair cutting, marriage, death are different rites throughout a Hindus life. The most important and never a-parting relationship and most engrossing event of a Hindus life is marriage. It is subjected to be the most prolonged and an endless conversation however; those who remain unmarried are also treated with the upmost respect, if he has a pious motive. The bride and bride groom start their lives together where fire is taken as witness. The couples make seven rounds around the fire and each round has its specific promise which they are supposed to keep throughout their married life. In case of remarriage, the Hindu society allows a widower to remarriage however, widows are never allowed to remarry and have affairs throughout their lives. After marriage, the funeral or death ceremony comes second important and this d iffers from caste to caste. The closing moment of a Hindus life is associated with number of actions. After death, the body is destroyed, ideally on the bank of river with fire. Afterwards, Hindu mourning lasts one year, during which a large number of ceremonies have to be performed for the Mokshya or liberation of the Soul. Hinduism is generally associated with multiple deities and does not advocate the worship of one particular deity. Home is the center of religious practices for Hindus. Deities are represented by a complexity of images and idols symbolizing divine powers. Each home has an idol, a picture or at least an image to worship. Cleaning and sprinkling the holy water are common ways to make the house holy and livable for God. In addition, Hindus go to different temples very frequently to worship different gods. Hindus view the Supreme Beings cosmic activity as comprised of three main tasks: creation, preservation, and dissolution. There three tasks are associated with three deities Brahma,  Vishnu  and  Shiva which are fundamental deities of Hinduism and they stand as  creator, preserver and destroyer respectively. Lord Brahma brings forth the generation and represents the creative principle of the Supreme Being. Where, Lord Vishnu maintains the universe and represents the eternal prin ciple of preservation. Lord Shiva represents the principle of dissolution and recreation. All future characters in Hinduism are connected somehow with these three deities. A Hindu deity represents a particular Supreme Being. These three deities together form the Hindu trinity. One must clearly apprehend that these three gods present the same power, the Supreme Being in three different aspects and are not independent. Bansi Pandit says, The oneness of the three gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva or Mahesh is brought out by the mystic symbol AUM where A represents Vishnu, U Shiva and M Brahma. After deities, Hindus also worship planets, trees, animals, and even spirits. As per Hindu scriptures, living beings are not apart from God, since, he resides in each and every one of the creatures in the form of atman (BG 10.39). Hence, each living being is a solitary manifestation of God. In addition, Hinduism has always been an environmentally sensitive philosophy and contains the earliest messages for sustentation of environmental and ecological balance. Thus, Hindus worship nine planets as God because it is believed that these angelic bodies in the cosmos affect every aspect of human lives and are responsible for all the good or bad times one faces in life. Among them, the sun has a major role and is worshipped in different forms. The holy Gayatri mantra is solely dedicated to the sun: Let us mediate on the adorable splendor of sun; may he arouse our minds with his golden beams. After the solar system or planets, Hindus also worship animals and plants such as cow and holy basil. The priests say that just looking after a cow in itself is a form of worship. Holy basil which is often called Queen of herbs is the mother medicine of nature. Generally each Hindus home has a basil plant in courtyard and the house is considered incomplete if it does not have a basil plant somewhere in residence. In India this plant is hallowed for more than five thousand years as a healing balm for body, mind and soul. As Hinduism is a mixture of different castes, cultures, and is comprised of many varying beliefs such as pantheism, monotheism, polytheism, and atheism; it seems very unique in comparison to other eastern religions. Even though philosophers and historians have controversy regarding Hinduism, Hindus do not have any contradiction among their beliefs.

Homosexuality in the Film Latter Days and in Sexual Perversion by Nagel

From the assigned readings and film, I felt that I have gained a better understanding on one of the most controversial types of relationships, homosexuality. The topic of homosexuality isn’t easy to openly talk about but it is important as philosophy students, to have an open-mind about topics that we don’t partake in. Doing so allows us to promote new ways of thinking about the world around us and see them in a whole new light. In this personal response paper, I will discuss homosexuality in connection with the film Latter Days to determine why a homosexual relationship can meet Kant’s criteria for acceptable love as mentioned in Ruse’s essay, â€Å"Is Homosexuality Bad Sexuality?†, as well as why it qualifies as a complete and healthy relationship as described by Nagel in â€Å"Sexual Perversion.† Michael Ruse’s essay revolves around the central question if homosexuality is an acceptable form of relationship. In order to help answer this question, Ruse examines this argument from multiple philosophical perspectives, mainly the categorical imperative and utilitarianism. The first ethical framework is Kant’s categorical imperative. According to this theory, a person should not use another for their own benefit or the benefit of others because â€Å"people must be treated as subjective worthy beings in their own right† (Ruse, 1995, pg.113). This means that in a relationship, one must not treat the other as a means to the fulfillment of their sexual desires (e.g. as a sexual object). Instead, there must be respect for the dignity of the other. â€Å"By giving oneself reciprocally – by yielding oneself, body and soul – one shows respect for the other as an end and not just as a means† (Ruse, 1995, pg. 113). In doing so, according to Kant, there woul... ...ity was something that I never really took the time to think about but after reading the essays and watching the film, I have newfound respect for homosexuality. I know it’s only a matter of opinion, but I do genuinely feel that homosexuality is indeed an acceptable way for people to act and that there is nothing wrong with it. Works Cited Nagel, T. (1995). Sexual perversion. In R. Stewart (4th Ed.), Philosophical Perspectives on Sex and Love (pp. 105-112). New York, New York: Oxford University Press, Inc. Ruse, M. (1995). Is homosexuality bad sexuality?. In R.Stewart (4th Ed.), Philosophical Perspectives on Sex and Love (pp. 113-123). New York, New York: Oxford University Press, Inc. Schaefer, J. & Tibbles, K. (Producers), & Cox, C.J. (Director). (2003). Latter days [Motion picture]. United States: Funny Boy Films & Davis Entertainment Filmworks.

Greenhouse Effect

Greenhouse Effect is a term for the role the atmosphere plays in helping warm the earth’s surface. The atmosphere is largely transparent to incoming short-wave ( or ultrviolet) soalr radiation, which is absorbed by earth’s surface. The earth receives energy from the sun, which warms the earth’s surface. As this energy passes through the atmosphere, a certain percentage gets scattered. Some part of this energy is reflected back into the atmosphere from the land and ocean surface. The rest (70%) actually remains behind to heat the earth. n order to establisha balance, therefore, the earth must radiate some energy back into the atmosphere. As the earth is much cooler than the sun, it does not emit energy as visisble llight. It emitsthrought is frared or thermal radiation. However, certain gases in the atmosphere. Without this blanket effect, the earth would be around 30oC colder than it normally is. These gases like carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide along wi th water vapour, comprise less than one per cent of the atmosphere. They are called ‘greenhouse gases† as the working principle is same as that which occurs in a greenhouse. Just as the galss of the greenhouse prevent the radiation of excess energy, this ‘gas blanket’ absorbs some of the energy emitted by the earth and keeps temperaature level intact. This effect was first recognized by a France scientist, Jean-Baptiste Fourier, who pionted out the similarly in what happen in the atmosphere and in a green house. Hence he terms the greenhouse effect. This gas blanket has been in place ever since the creation of the earth. Since the industrial revolution human activities have been releasing more and more of these greenhouse gases into atmosphere. This leads to the blanket becaming thicker and upsets gses are called ‘sources’ and those that remove them are known as ‘sink’. A balance between ‘source’ and ‘sink’ maintains the level of these greenhouse gases. Humankind upsets this balance when new source that interfere with the natural gas. When we destroy forest, the carbon stored in the treeescapes as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Increasing agricultural activities, changes in land use patterns, and other sources lead to rising level of methane and nitrous oxide. Industrial processes also release artificial and new greenhouse gases like CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), while automobile exhaust fumes lead to ozone generation. The resulting enchaned greenhouse effect is more commonly referred to as global warming or climate change. Global warming is a result of the increase of thickness of the greenhouse gas layer that is release into the atmosphere through human activity like burning fossil fuel. Increase greenhouse gas concerntration may be resulting in more heat being trap in the atmosphere and increasing global temperature emitted by the cars we drive, the furnaces we use to heat our homes and the industries that produce oil and gas, create electricity and develop products for the world’s marketplace. These greeghouse are completely human caused. They harm stratospheric ozone and so are not as directly responsible for global warming as carbon dioxideis. The question of reducing their presence in the stratosphere is being taken care of in another global convention, the Montreal Protocol. These gases are particularly effective in absorbing long wave radiation from the earth’s surface and preventing heat from escaping. Alhtough the views and opinions of people across the world vary on issues relating to the cause of global warming and its possible impacts, there is a common understanding that is is a cause for major global concern and must be adressed immediately. Greenhouse Effect Greenhouse Effect is a term for the role the atmosphere plays in helping warm the earth’s surface. The atmosphere is largely transparent to incoming short-wave ( or ultrviolet) soalr radiation, which is absorbed by earth’s surface. The earth receives energy from the sun, which warms the earth’s surface. As this energy passes through the atmosphere, a certain percentage gets scattered. Some part of this energy is reflected back into the atmosphere from the land and ocean surface. The rest (70%) actually remains behind to heat the earth. n order to establisha balance, therefore, the earth must radiate some energy back into the atmosphere. As the earth is much cooler than the sun, it does not emit energy as visisble llight. It emitsthrought is frared or thermal radiation. However, certain gases in the atmosphere. Without this blanket effect, the earth would be around 30oC colder than it normally is. These gases like carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide along wi th water vapour, comprise less than one per cent of the atmosphere. They are called ‘greenhouse gases† as the working principle is same as that which occurs in a greenhouse. Just as the galss of the greenhouse prevent the radiation of excess energy, this ‘gas blanket’ absorbs some of the energy emitted by the earth and keeps temperaature level intact. This effect was first recognized by a France scientist, Jean-Baptiste Fourier, who pionted out the similarly in what happen in the atmosphere and in a green house. Hence he terms the greenhouse effect. This gas blanket has been in place ever since the creation of the earth. Since the industrial revolution human activities have been releasing more and more of these greenhouse gases into atmosphere. This leads to the blanket becaming thicker and upsets gses are called ‘sources’ and those that remove them are known as ‘sink’. A balance between ‘source’ and ‘sink’ maintains the level of these greenhouse gases. Humankind upsets this balance when new source that interfere with the natural gas. When we destroy forest, the carbon stored in the treeescapes as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Increasing agricultural activities, changes in land use patterns, and other sources lead to rising level of methane and nitrous oxide. Industrial processes also release artificial and new greenhouse gases like CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), while automobile exhaust fumes lead to ozone generation. The resulting enchaned greenhouse effect is more commonly referred to as global warming or climate change. Global warming is a result of the increase of thickness of the greenhouse gas layer that is release into the atmosphere through human activity like burning fossil fuel. Increase greenhouse gas concerntration may be resulting in more heat being trap in the atmosphere and increasing global temperature emitted by the cars we drive, the furnaces we use to heat our homes and the industries that produce oil and gas, create electricity and develop products for the world’s marketplace. These greeghouse are completely human caused. They harm stratospheric ozone and so are not as directly responsible for global warming as carbon dioxideis. The question of reducing their presence in the stratosphere is being taken care of in another global convention, the Montreal Protocol. These gases are particularly effective in absorbing long wave radiation from the earth’s surface and preventing heat from escaping. Alhtough the views and opinions of people across the world vary on issues relating to the cause of global warming and its possible impacts, there is a common understanding that is is a cause for major global concern and must be adressed immediately.

Distortions of Reality Essays

Distortions of Reality Essays Distortions of Reality Essay Distortions of Reality Essay Essay Topic: Diary Of a Madman Lolita In both Vladimir Nabokovs novel Lolita, and Thomas Pynchons novel The Crying of Lot 49, the protagonist is consumed by an obsession. These obsessions affect the characters behavior, actions, and interaction with the world. Most importantly, however, both authors reveal that obsession distorts a persons perception of reality. In Lolita, the protagonist and narrator, Humbert Humbert, has an obsessive lust for nymphets which warps his view of the world, ultimately driving him to paranoia. His sexual fixation for nymphets is projected on all that he sees. It prevents him from seeing the world clearly, void of nymphet-sexual overtones. His interactions and perceptions of girls are consumed with sexual fantasy, which obstructs their true nature. He becomes delusional due to paranoia, causing his imagination to take hold of his notions of reality. Humbert writes the following accounts from a prison cell, where he is able to use his retrospect to narrate the novel. He describes his obsession with nymphets at great lengths. Whenever he comes into contact with them he is overcome with sexual lust and yearning. He tells the reader, I was consumed by a hell furnace of localized lust for every passing nymphet (18). His obsession is intensified by the agony and frustration he feels due to his inability to act on his desires. Humbert even convinces himself that there is nothing wrong with being infatuated with girl-children, justifying it as, a question of attitude (19). This rationale is further justified through his numerous references to man-nymphet sexual relationships throughout history. He has done thorough research on the topic because of his utter fascination with girl-children. This fascination has also led him to pursue the detailed study of the pubescent stages of female development. Humbert describes the feelings that his obsessive lust evokes. He says that his random infrequent interactions with girls on the metro or in the park created a revelation of axillary russet[that] remained in my blood for weeks (20). Whenever nymphets are near him he feels euphoric and becomes enraptured in his fantasies. The world around him stops, and he dreams of being left alone in my pubescent park, in my mossy garden. Let them play around me forever. Never grow up (20). He uses imagery of a mossy garden to emphasize his forbidden desire of young girls. Moss is green, which symbolizes youth or something that is unripe, while the garden refers to Eden, where Eve was forbidden to eat from the tree of knowledge. Nabokov similarly uses imagery to reveal Humberts misconceptions of reality. His obsessive lust for young girls is reflected in the world that he sees, which is expressed through images of a mirror. While he is with a nymphet prostitute he notices his reflection that distorted my mouth (22). This mirrors his distorted view of young girls that he projects throughout the novel. He cannot see himself clearly in the mirror, just as he cannot see young girls clearly. His inability to see outside of his world, which is consumed by thoughts and feelings of obsessive lust, is also seen through imagery of a window. The prostitute is wrapped in the gauze of the window curtain, which symbolizes that Humberts obstructed view of reality is just like the obstructed view that a curtain provides a window. Similar imagery is seen during Humberts life with his first wife Valeria. Humbert and Valeria, who resembles a little girl, live in an apartment that has a hazy view in one window, a brick wall in the other (26). Humbert cannot see outside the box within he lives. He cannot see past his warped sense of women. His mind has slipped into a world confined by his sexual desire. While living in this apartment he is driven mad by the shadow of the grocers little daughter (26). This image reveals that his picture of girls is only a dark reflection of light, thus it lacks substance and clarity. Similar images persist when Humbert notices through the store window of an art dealer, a locomotive with a gigantic smokestack, great baroque lamps and a tremendous cowcatcher, hauling its mauve coaches through the stormy prairie night and mixing a lot of spark-studded black smoke with the furry thunder clouds (26-27). This image of smoke, light, and clouds reflects Humberts obscured understanding of h is world. Instead of seeing things clearly and illuminated, his head is in the clouds. The novels theme of obsession leading to the distortion of reality is reiterated through the work that Humbert does when he goes to America. The intense research that is involved in his job of writing the history of French literature causes him to have a nervous breakdown and he is sent to a sanatorium twice. This reflects the larger theme of the novel that intensity, like compulsion or obsession, leads to mental disorder. While Humbert is on an expedition to arctic Canada, he feels curiously aloof from [himself]seated on a boulder under a completely translucent sky (33). Nabokov uses imagery of clarity to make Humbert feel disconnected from himself. Under a clear sky he cannot see himself clearly. Humberts arrival at the Haze household marks the beginning of his most powerful obsession: Lolita Haze. The name Haze is an intentional play-on-words that Nabokov uses to emphasize the obscured perception and confused state of mind that she causes Humbert. Humberts obsession with this twelve-year-old girl is chronicled in an entire diarys worth of entries that mark every stage of his growing lust for her. It is filled with imagery and language that illustrate his lack of perspective. Mrs. Haze takes a picture of Humbert while he sits blinking on the steps (41). Humberts blindness from watching Lolita is accentuated by the fact that it is captured in a photograph. In another instance, while Humbert daydreams of Lolita, Mrs. Haze interrupts by asking him for a cigarette light (43). This refers to Humberts obscured view of Lolita and is an example of the subtleties of language used by Nabokov to reveal a greater theme. The leitmotif of the mirror is again seen in these diary entries when Humbert observes one day that he and Lolita are in the same warm, green bath of the mirror that reflected the top of a poplar with us in the sky (43). Their position in the sky depicts that Humbert is not grounded, nor does he have his feet on the ground, because he is completely preoccupied with his lust for Lolita. Humbert also reveals self-recognition of his biased perception of Lolita. He explains, Never have I experienced such agony. I would describe her face, her ways and I cannot because my own desire for her blinds me when she is near (44). Humbert is both literally and figuratively blinded by Lolita. He is unable to notice anything but his lust for her. One day, as he lustfully watches her leaning through a window while talking to the newspaper boy, he confesses, I seemed to see her through the wrong end of a telescope (55). Again, Nabokov uses figurative language to depict Humberts inability to see Lolita clearly while she is leaning outside of a window. By looking through a telescope from the opposite end, her image appears much farther away, and thus obscured. Humberts obsession with Lolita causes him to recreate reality. He figuratively takes on the role of an artist. He says, you have to be an artist and a madman (17) in order to lust after nymphets. This aspect of his character is emphasized when Lolita shows him a picture of a surrealist painting in a magazine (58). Nabokov uses this allusion to refer to the surreal nature of Humberts perception of Lolita. Humbert admits, What I had madly possessed was not she, but my own creation (62). He has molded his own image of Lolita in his mind, which has objectified and glorified her. His obsession with this figment of his imagination has clouded reality.

Teaching the English Language

Teaching the English Language Language is important in every culture. It enables people to understand each other and to trace their roots. However, we live in the world where almost everything is uniting into a shared understanding of each other. It would then be possible to relate with each other. That is why a common language like English is crucial. Although at some point it causes other people to feel that their tradition and values are not essential.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Teaching the English Language specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Teaching Standard English in schools is a daunting task. It even becomes more difficult especially when the students are not from native English speaking countries. Some may have been born in those countries but have their native languages. Reading and writing is one way of ensuring that the skill of communication is necessary to the students. Linda Christensen is one teacher who regrets why the Englis h teacher, Mrs. Delaney, made her look inferior just because she could not pronounce certain words correctly. She feels that educators should not force certain pronunciations on students because their mother tongue affects them. Instead, they should try to help students use substitutes for some words. She discovered that at least there were substitutes for every English word. It is important also to note that language defines and classifies an individual. The social norms dictate where someone belongs when they speak and how they pronounce the words. People have come to understand that English is the language of the dominant people. As long as one can speak well and be able to use the words carefully they become recognized in the society irrespective of their origin. Other people believe that it is not good to discard one’s traditional beliefs about foreign values. The Spanish-speaking people and the African Americans are among those who think that it is wrong to judge them b y how they speak the English language. In fact, the African Americans want their Ebonics to receive accolades as much as the English language does. Another aspect of teaching is that it has dwelt so much on the readings without examining the social and historical framework. It is important to include critical literacy that explores the same. It is a state of asking questions to find the reasons as to why, how, when, and what makes them. The students need to look at themselves as they compare with the larger society. Learning is a process that must always include the learner.Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Gilbert’s letter brings to mind great learning from multiple writers. For instance, Multiple Roads to Literacy broadens the means and ways of learning. It builds on the fact that there is no one way of gaining literacy. People can make mistakes and still get it righ t at the end of the day. One must understand the learner and be creative about ensuring that he or she gains from the teaching. The artifact and the writings have something in common. They help to give some history of the English language and why it is important to learn it. They also provide avenues for mistakes. It is not important to judge the students and intimidate them because they could not pronounce a particular word correctly. They give a sober appeal to all learners to appreciate themselves by learning the language. The students also need to relate to their individual environments when trying to write and speak the language. It helps them to find the real meaning of their lessons. When they write about their mistakes, they find easier ways of solving some of them and even learning from each other. In some instances as they read aloud, they make others also become part of their story. At one point, some students cried in class when they heard how their colleague was struggl ing to survive in a difficult situation. There is also the tendency of using the paramount persons in the society as good examples in the impartation of knowledge. The people are mostly from high social classes and or might have served in the public sector. It is up to the teacher to remind the students that even in their small world there are heroes to celebrate, including their improvements. Such things help learners to acknowledge the process and believe in themselves. The writings are crucial. They have made me have a different perspective on learning. It is important to understand the students one has in class. It is also reasonable to relate with them so that all of us can go through the learning process with fewer difficulties. When teaching, I have learned that history is part of the learning. In as much as the lessons may be very particular and strict about the syllabus, one needs to focus on the surroundings as well. When people talk about themselves, and what they are goi ng through, they open up to others to find solutions. It also brings people closer.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Teaching the English Language specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The students who felt lonely because they had no one to talk to would soon find partners in the same problem. The readings and discussions help to solve particular problems. Classes must not just become rigid curricular regulations. They are also social places where people can share, analyze and become part of a solution. Students must learn to deal with their fears because it interferes with their learning. It is also important to discover that there are standards in the education. Those standards must also resonate with the learners. Critical writing would be crucial for my anticipated future. They would guide and shape my new understanding of things. I would become less judgmental and more accommodative to my students. The students under my care would turn out to be the best students who would learn appreciative skills from me. I would use this for community and team building for students who could not relate well to each other to find new ways of association. I would also become more confident about my work as a teacher. It should be all about making positive progress. The readings have opened up my inner understanding. I would have just remained the way I was before my readings. I would also have imparted the same knowledge and skills that my teacher and society taught me. But I have now known that history is part of my students and my work. I always have to feel the urge to keep making others believe in themselves. I have learned through mistakes and would not like others to go through the same mistakes. I would instill discipline in my students because they would carry it on to the future. I would use the children’s mistakes to mold new behavior in them through encouraging them and motivating them. The m ost important thing is to ensure that they release deep-seated anger about their past.Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More I would then group the students depending on their abilities. The groups would keep changing members until if possible all the students can feel happy being with each in class and outside. The stories they share would become confidential within the boundaries of the class until and unless the students want to share with their parents.

The Absolute Freedom of Expression through Journalism in the Modern Article

The Absolute Freedom of Expression through Journalism in the Modern World - Article Example In this same background, it is also important to redefine the true purpose and function of the global journalists. A prudent definition would instruct the journalists to persist their valuable efforts to invite the attention of the common people to incidents of similar nature and to the exact need for greater freedom of the press. The most recent attacks on the six journalists across the world and especially in South Asia once again draw the attention of international community to the question of journalistic function and many have responded to this essential topic of the time. In one of the most persuasive appeals to the recent atrocities on international journalists, Matt Wade’s article â€Å"Sword Mightier than Pen as Journalist Deaths Rise to Six† deals with the â€Å"bloody start to this year for media workers on the Indian subcontinent.† (Wade) In this article, Matt Wade convincingly summarizes the atrocities to journalists in the most hazardous region in the world for journalists to work and reports the several instances of media attacks in South Asia - which includes India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan. He illustrates the mounting attacks against the freedom of speech in the region with pieces of evidence of Lasantha Wickramatunga, the leading Colombo newspaper editor, Uma Singh, the young journalist in her 20s, and Sayed Perwiz Kambaksh, the journalism student in Afghanistan. By reporting and summarizing several instances of attacks on journalists in the region and by raising the issue of the sword is mightier than the pen, Matt Wade not only serves his journalistic function but, more importantly, proves that pen is mightier than the sword. An understanding of the rhetorical devices used by the author, one realizes that Matt Wade has been effective in catching the emotion of the readers and creating the exact feelings of pathos in them.

Not sure it is about media study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Not sure it is about media study - Essay Example 76). Althusser’s then considered that class is never inherent but instead culturally created, and individual desires, attitude, behaviours and choices are creation of ideology. Furthermore, he argued that ideology controls people via despotic state machineries built in ideological state devices, and as such, it is impossible to conceive a structure of images plus objects whose connotations can exist separately of language. Althusser’s observes that ideology interpellates existing individuals as material subjects through pre-existing classes comprising the subject (Montag, 2003, p. 45). Foucault, on the other hand observes ideology as an intolerable concept of universal judiciousness, which are based on subjectivity (Mills, 2012, p. 64). Foucault scepticism on ideology is based on his belief that dissimilar rationalities are composed in historical structures. Thus, he mystifies power due to its emphasis on universal truth. Foucault asserts that, subjectivity is the validation of a progression, and it is rather provisional leading to subject(s) (Ransom, 2008, p. 4). To Foucault subjectivities are rather multiple instead of being unified even as it fluctuates instead of being fixed, per se, subjects are socially constituted. Hence, subjectivity possesses a permanent provocation to the discourse or conversation which defines it (Strozier, 2002, p. 21). On the other hand, Althusser’s defines subjectivity as the roles, characteristics or subject possessed by individuals, and willingly undertake in response to an ideology. Thus, according to Althusser’s, su bjectivity is the hub of initiatives, an author of, along with being responsible for its actions. Therefore, an individual is for all time a subject, even before he or she is born (Ferretter, 2012, p. 88). The aim of this paper is to discuss the statement that language is always already ideological,