Wednesday, December 25, 2019

The Controversial Issue Of Euthanasia - 958 Words

In discussions of terminal illness, one controversial issue has been the legalization of euthanasia. On one hand, people contend that they should have the right to choose to die painlessly. On the other hand, skeptics argue that patients with a terminal illness should let nature run its course. Others even maintain that it devalues life. My own view is that people should have the right to choose assisted suicide. Euthanasia is the act or practice of killing or permitting the death of hopelessly sick or injured individuals in a relatively painless way for reasons of mercy. There are many forms of euthanasia that are allowed in a few states as long as the legal restrictions are met. To be voluntarily euthanized, you must be suffering from a terminal illness that can’t be cured or if the patient has a very low chance of surviving treatment for their illness. If a terminally ill patient expressed to be euthanized at a competence state prior to an incompetence state then others can decide to end his life on good terms because they know that is what they would’ve wanted. Many lives could be laid to rest peacefully and painlessly, that is if the law allowed terminally ill patients to do so everywhere. Euthanasia is legal in quite a few countries regarding some restrictions. Euthanasia is legal in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Different restriction policies of euthanasia apply to the assisted suicide policies that are legal in countries such as Albania, Colombia,Show MoreRelatedThe Controversial Issue Of Euthanasia1680 Words   |  7 PagesEuthanasia For a long time, euthanasia has been a controversial issue in countries all around the globe. However, with active technological progress, this topic becomes more urgent than 50 years ago. Undoubtedly, it is influenced by many factors. One of the leading debatable points is the invention and improvement of artificial life support devices. It is impossible to overestimate the importance of this theme as it is related to the most important value of each person – their life and lives of theirRead MoreEuthanasia Is A Controversial Issue2395 Words   |  10 PagesAs medical technology advances, people are able to become healthier and have a longer life. There are many moral issues between life and death. And we know that death is a stage of life and no one are able to control it. Imagine that you are in a pain of a deadly disease and there are no treatments are available to you, would you choose to live? Or would you choose to die? The answer to this question are subject to the pe rson, everyone would come up with a different answer. The desire of individualsRead MoreThe Controversial Issue Of Euthanasia1150 Words   |  5 PagesEuthanasia should not be legalised in Australia. Good morning 10C and Ms Leoni, Today I am here to talk about the controversial issue of euthanasia. This year, the Greens party has planned to introduce a ‘Rights of the Terminally Ill’ bill into state parliament. This has raised the issue of whether or not euthanasia should be legalised in Australia. Euthanasia is the practice of ending a person’s life in order to release them from an incurable disease or intolerable suffering. There are two typesRead MoreEuthanasi The Controversial Issue Of Euthanasia1650 Words   |  7 PagesAdelaide students think about legalising voluntary euthanasia in Australia? Introduction The purpose of this research is to seeking and analysing the opinions about legalising voluntary euthanasia within Adelaide students (aged 18-25 years old). With recent changes to legalisation of child euthanasia in Belgium, the controversial issue of euthanasia is currently being re-spotlighted all over the world. Ongoing active discussion on the legalisation of euthanasia mainly debates individual’s choices in endingRead MoreThe Controversial Issue Of Euthanasia1937 Words   |  8 PagesEuthanasia is defined as: the painless killing of a patient suffering from an incurable and painful disease or in an irreversible coma (Dictionary Reference). For countless years Euthanasia has been a controversial topic in the Canadian legal system. Many people believe that the act of assisting in a suicide should remain illegal because it can shorten the life of humans; however, others believe that assisting in a suicide should be legal only if the person in question is suffering from a te rminalRead More Euthanasia Essay - The Controversial Issue of Doctor-Assisted Suicide805 Words   |  4 PagesThe Controversial Issue of Doctor-Assisted Suicide      Ã‚   Imagine youu have just found out you are going to die within three months. Recently the questions have been changed form, What am I going to do with the rest of my life? to When should I kill myself?   With painful and crippling diseases such as AIDS and cancer, and Alzheimers along with doctors such as Dr. Kavorkian, some people are choosing death over life.   Doctor assisted suicide has been a very controversialRead MoreEuthanasia Essay1474 Words   |  6 Pagesï » ¿Kraig Ekstein Buck, Todd RELU 110 October 27, 2013 Euthanasia Throughout the world there are many contemporary ethical issues pertaining different religions throughout the globe. These issues have been around for many years and are still quite debated in today’s society. One of the most controversial issues is wither euthanasia is right or wrong. Euthanasia is an ongoing topic in religions throughout the world and each carries their own personal beliefs on the topic. In order to understand howRead MoreThe Centers For Disease Control And Prevention Released1181 Words   |  5 Pagesmajor issue everywhere in the world, but recently assisted suicide has come around the news as a new form of death. Although, assisted suicide had already been around since 500 B.C, the Ancient Greeks and Roman era (â€Å"Historical Timeline†). According to euthanasia.procon.org during that time, â€Å"Many ancient Greeks and Romans had no cogently defined belief in the inherent value of individual human life. . . physicians complied by often giving t heir patients the poisons they requested.† This issue wasRead MoreThe Morality Of Euthanasia By James Rachels1086 Words   |  5 PagesID: 3339147 Active Euthanasia Does James Rachels in â€Å"The Morality of Euthanasia† successfully argue that in at least some cases active euthanasia is morally acceptable? Explain his view and respond to it. In this essay, we are going to analyze the main ideas included in â€Å"The Morality of Euthanasia† by James Rachels to provide a response to the following question: Does James Rachels in â€Å"The Morality of Euthanasia† successfully argue that in at least some cases active euthanasia is morally acceptableRead MoreShould Euthanasia Be Legalized?1210 Words   |  5 Pagesdiagnosis, one of their main concerns is dying with dignity and not left to suffer a long and drawn out death. Euthanasia, also known as mercy killing, is a sensitive and very controversial subject. Several people believe, doctors should not participate in any action that ends a person’s life due to the Hippocratic Oath stating that doctors are obligated to save lives. Although, euthanasia is considered to be immoral and even murder, it should be legalized when a person’s quality of life, due to an

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

The Enactment of Southern Black Codes in 1865 Essay

Essays on The Enactment of Southern Black Codes in 1865 Essay The paper "The Enactment of Southern Black Codes in 1865" is a perfect example of an essay on history. The so-called Black Codes of  1865 –1866 were a series of laws passed by defeated Southern states of the Confederacy to control the newly-freed black slaves. In essence, these laws or codes sought to restore the pre-war order of slavery through supposedly legal means. After Abraham Lincoln was assassinated five days after the end of the Civil War, it was his vice president Andrew Johnson who succeeded him into office; Johnson was a Southerner and is sympathetic to the aims of former white slave owners to restore the old order in the South. The original Reconstruction Plan of Lincoln was changed by Johnson (Zuczek 80) to reflect the desires of white Southerners to deny freed slaves their civil and political rights.   The Union federal government established the Freedmen's Bureau to help blacks in a transition to a life of liberty such as establishing schools for them, helping them find work, to mediate in wage disputes, and in general, allow blacks to learn how to exercise their freedom. The Southern Black Codes were passed by individual Southern states to negate the objectives of the Freedmen's Bureau; many of these laws were passed and adopted by white-only South state conventions designed to control the movement of newly-freed black slaves by restricting their freedoms like denying black children the right to attend free public schools (CRF para. 6). More seriously, the codes disenfranchised the blacks by denying them the right to vote. Without suffrage, blacks were helpless against such laws as they could not participate in the making and passing of laws that discriminated against them in so many ways. This era in the South started the Jim Crow period when laws were increasingly harsh and vin dictive. It started the pattern of discrimination against blacks which continued until the 1960s when the Civil Rights Movement tried to change the situation but injustices persisted even today.

Monday, December 9, 2019

Solution and Concentration in Chemistry free essay sample

A solution is a homogeneous mixture, made up of a solute dissolved in a solvent. Ex. In a water (aqueous) solution of sodium chloride, the sodium chloride is the solute and the water is the solvent. Solute – the component that is dissolved or is the least abundant component in the solution. SolidGasSolidHydrogen in Palladium SolidLiquidSolidMercury in silver SolidSolidSolidSilver in gold Kinds of Solution 1. Saturated Solution – one that contains as much of the solute as can be dissolved at the given temperature. 2. Unsaturated solution – there is less solute than can be dissolved at a given temperature 3. Supersaturated solution – unstable condition in which there is more solute in solution than can normally exist at a given time. Weight percentwt. %100 x grams of solute / grams of solvent + grams of solute Volume percentvol. %100 x liters of solute / liter of solution Parts per millionPpmmilligrams of solute / kg. of solution or milligrams / liter Parts per billionPpbmicrograms / liter grams per volumegrams of solute / liters of solution Concentration Units 1. Percentage Composition a. mass or weight percent of solute – expresses the concentration of the solution as percent of solute in a given mass of solution wt. % = wt. of solute x 100 = wt. of solute x 100 wt. f solute + solvent wt. of solution 1. a. 1. What is the weight percent of sodium hydroxide in a solution that is made by dissolving 8. 00 g of sodium hydroxide in 50. 0 g of water? 1. a. 2. What weight of potassium chloride and water are needed to make 250 g of 5. 00% solution? b. weight-volume percent – expresses the concentration as grams of solute per 100 mL of solution. wt-vol % = wt. of solute, gram x 100 vol. of solution, mL 1. b. 1. A solution was prepared by dissolving 1. 30 grams silver nitrate in water and diluting to 50. 0 mL. Calculate the mass-volume percent silver nitrate. 1. b. 2. A 3. 0% H2O2 solution is commonly used as a topical antiseptic to prevent infection. What volume of this solution will contain 10. g of H2O2? c. volume percent (with respect to the solute). This can be used to express the concentration of a solution made by mixing two liquids. vol. % = volume of solute x 100 volume of solution Volume percent is used to express the concentration of alcohol in beverages. Wines generally contain 12% alcohol by volume. This translates into 12 mL of alcohol in each 100 mL of wine. The beverage industry also uses the concentration unit of proof (twice the volume percent). Pure alcohol is 100% and therefore 200 proof. Scotch whiskey is 86 proof, or 43% alcohol. 2. Parts per million (ppm) and parts per billion (ppb) This concentration is used for very dilute solutions such as water analysis or in biological preparations. A solution whose solute concentration is 1ppm contains 1 g of solute for each million (106) grams of solution or, equivalently, 1 mg of solute per kilogram of solution. Also, 1 ppm also corresponds to 1 mg of solute per liter of solution. pm = mass of solute x 106 ; ppm = wt in mg of solute mass of solution vol in L of solution For solution that are even more dilute, parts per billion (ppb) is used. A concentration of 1ppb represents 1 gram of solute per billion (109) grams of solution, or microgram (? g) of solute per liter of solution ppb = mass of solute x 109 ; ppb = wt in ? g of solute mass of solution vol in L of solution 3. mole fraction (X) – the ratio of the no. of moles of component to the total no. of moles (solute and solvent) present in the solution. Xsolute = no. of moles of one component total no. of moles of all components XA + XB + †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. + XN N = total no. of components Note: Mole fraction have no units because the units in the numerator and the denominator cancel. The sum of the mole fraction of all components of a solution must equal to 1. 3. 1. What is the mole fraction of the solute in a 100g sample of a 10% sulfuric acid solution? 3. 2. A solution of hydrochloric acid contains 36% HCl by mass. Calculate the mole fraction of HCl in the solution 4. Molality (m) – the number of moles of solute per kilogram of solvent olality (m) = no. of moles solute no. of kilograms solvent 4. 1. A solution of hydrochloric acid contains 36% HCl by mass. Calculate the molality of HCl in the solution. Find the molality of a solution of 20. 0% (by mass) ethanol C2H5OH, in water. 5. Molarity (M) the number of moles of solute per liter of solution. The units of molarity are moles per liter. Molarity (M) = no. of moles of solute Liters of solution Since no. of moles solute = weight of the solute (g) molar mass of the solute (g/mol) Molarity can also be expressed as M = weight of the solute (g) molar mass of the solute (g/mol) x Liters of solution 5. 1. What will be the molarity of the resulting solution if 3. 50 grams of sodium hydroxide are dissolved in water to make 125 mL? 5. 2. How many grams of potassium hydroxide are required to prepare 600mL of 0. 450M KOH solutions? 6. Normality (N) – expresses as the no. of equivalents of solute per liter of solution. Normality is based on an alternative chemical unit of mass called the equivalent weights. Normality (N) = no. of equivalents of solute L of solution where,no. of equiv. f solute = wt. of solute (g) equiv. wt. of solute then, N = wt. of solute (g) equiv. wt of solute x L of solution 6. 1. What is the normality of a potassium dichromate, K2Cr2O7, solution made by dissolving 5. 00 grams of potassium dichromate crystals in 250 mL of water if it is to be used for the reaction Cr2O7 -2 + 6 I + 14 H + 2 Cr +3 + 3 I2 + 7 H2O Anuang KYLLINGA MONOCEPHALA commonly known as ANUANG Kyllinga triceps Blanco Kyllinga mindorensis Steud. Kyllinga monocephala Rottb. Var. mindorensis Boeck. Kyllinga gracilis Kuntz Local names: Anuang (Tag. ); barubotones (Bis. ); bolobotones (Bis. ); borobotones (Bis. ); botoncillo (Sp. , Bis. ); bosobotones (Bis. ); boesa-ngadadakkel (Ilk. ); baki-baki (S. L. Bis. ); bosikad (C. Bis. ); boskad (Bis. ); busikad (P. Bis. ); katutu (Mag. ); kurukamoting-orig (Bik. ); malabotones (Bis. ); mutha (Tag. ); mustra (Tag. ); pungos (S. L. Bis. ); sangsangitan (Bon. ); sud-sud (Bis. ); uli-uli (Bag. ); busikad (Bis. ). Anuang is found throughout the Philippines in waste places, open grasslands, etc. , at low and medium altitudes. It is pantropic in distribution. The plant is more or less glabrous, arising from creeping rootstocks. The stems are usually solitary, 10 to 40 centimeters high. The leaves are up to 15 centimeters in length or longer, 3 to 4 millimeters wide; with the bracts similar. The spikes are ovoid, simple, white, 8 to 13 millimeters long. The spikelets are very numerous, 3 to 3. 5 millimeters long, the flowering glume distinctly winged along the keel. The nut is up to 1. 5 millimeters long. According to Kirtikar and Basu the oil distilled from the roots is dark yellowish-green in color, of pleasant odor and pungent taste. The fresh root in decoction is used as a sudorific in malaria with chills. According to Guerrero the rhizome yields a decoction employed as a diuretic, and, mixed with oil, it is externally employed to combat certain forms of dermatosis. Nadkarni states that the root in decoction is refrigerant, demulcent and tonic; it is given to relieve thirst in fevers and in diabetes. The oil distilled from the root is used to relieve pruritus of the skin. Internally the oil is given in torpor of the liver. Other properties are similar to those of Cyperus rotundus. http://en. wikipilipinas. org/index. php? title=Anuang Research methodology sample is important when the students have to select a methodology for their research when writing a thesis or a research paper. But, students face the dilemma of where to find the good methodologies for samples. Research methodology has to be chosen very carefully after deciding on a topic and formulating a set of viable and valid research questions. Some types of research questions and research objectives require qualitative data while others require quantitative data. If the research aims at collection of primary data, the methodology must include setting up of laboratory experiments and conducting interviews etc. Different Types of Research Selecting the right type of research depends on the research problem. If only a little information on the topic being studied is available, and knowledge on the topic is minimal, then the qualitative data on the topic or the subject is a lot more important than quantitative data. Qualitative data helps to be explorative and classify, categorize or define a phenomena being studied. The suitable methods are observation and interviews. If information and knowledge is available on the subject quantitative data is good for proving a hypothesis or supporting a thesis as stated in the thesis statement. Surveys, questionnaires or laboratory experiments are suitable for collecting quantitative data that can be used in conformatory studies using statistical analysis. Research Design Research methodology sample can be used fruitfully when the students design their research. Design of the research has to be done after a careful study of the thesis, hypothesis or the research problem and the type of data needed for supporting the thesis, proving the hypothesis or finding a solution to the research problem. There are many parts involved in the design of the research, depending on the type of research. †¢ Sampling methods Type of data to be collected †¢ Methods for data collection †¢ Designing of data collection tools as questionnaires or lab test apparatus †¢ Methods for data presentation †¢ Methods for data analysis and interpretation Selection of Tools for Data Analysis After the collection of data, it is necessary to analyze the data to draw conclusions. In the scientific experiments, methodologies for data analysis can involve complex calculations and writing sophisticated computer programs. But in analyzing data in a survey conducted for a social science research data analysis may involve use of readily available statistical software. Selection of the appropriate methods has to be done at the proposal stage. Thesis committee will approve the thesis proposal only after satisfying themselves on the soundness of thesis, workability of thesis plan, structure of the thesis outline and the demonstrated plan which indicates the capability of the student to complete the research study. How Custom Thesis Help Students to Learn about Research Methodology Writing a thesis or a dissertation for a higher degree is a tedious and time consuming task. Many smart students face this challenge by getting help from reputed thesis writing companies. If the student cannot find a good research methodology sample or face difficulties in the task at any point of the thesis, they can buy thesis. Buying a custom thesis means that student can get advice, get help for the interviews, get the questionnaires designed etc. Above all, the good thesis writing companies such as Thesistown. com will help deciding on the appropriate research methodologies too apart from writing the whole thesis for the student

Sunday, December 1, 2019

The Rising Essay Example

The Rising Essay I believe that every song is written out of the writer’s own valuable reason what they often refer to as, â€Å"inspiration†. Thoughts and stories crafted with the writer’s own style, songs are inspired and made to inspire. I strongly believe that what touches the heart of music lovers is the way the lyrics of the song relate to their own experience, belief and dreams and for the artists to be loved by the people is a matter of a â€Å"bonus†. As with Bruce Springsteen, who was the person behind â€Å"The Rising† music has to be of â€Å"trusting the art, not the artist† (B. Springsteen, Time Magazine). The Rising is just one of the 911-inspired songs of his come album of the same title which, despite its intense empathy towards the people of America after September 11, 2006, had been plague with criticisms. Known as a rock artist, Springsteen has his heart on the working sector of the society representing the most ordinary people of America. As Senator John Kerry commented in an interview with USA Today, â€Å"Hes a street poet who really is in touched with currents and real peoples dilemmas (USA Today, July 14, 2002). I think this is what made Springsteen as Springsteen and what made â€Å"The Rising† the song of hope for America. We will write a custom essay sample on The Rising specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Rising specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Rising specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Setting aside Springsteen as the artist, The Rising, especially for those who have lost their loved ones when the Twin Towers crashed into dust will find its place in the hearts of the listeners. â€Å"Come up on the rising, come up lay your hands in mine; come up for the rising, come on up for the rising tonight.† For people to lose even the most valuable property they have is even lighter than to lose a beloved whose life will never be brought back. The powerful America can possibly raise another Twin Towers, even better and stronger Twin Towers. But the power and money of America can never bring back a single life to comfort its people. The only thing then that holds the people of America is hope. What The Rising wants to do is to call the people of America to hold on, have faith, unite and rise from the ashes of 911. â€Å"So its not hard to imagine that with The Rising, Springsteens urgency stems from the realization that what Americans need most right now—with th e Sept. 11 anniversary looming and things looking pretty shitty in general—is also that feeling of uplift† (F. Mills, The Seattle Weekly). ‘There are spirits above and behind me, faces gone black, eyes burning bright; may their precious blood bind me, Lord as I stand before your fiery light.† As emphatic and emotional as the lines of the song reveal, Springsteen never escaped controversy and accusations of â€Å"riding† with the current social situation. As the famous national pop critic Tom Moon said, it is just one of a scorched earth publicity campaign linking Sept. 11 with The Rising.† Moon in this statement was referring to the whole album. But who will judge the popularity of the song and the success of the album will still be the listeners, of whom Springsteen intended to touch rather than to please. As the lyrics suggest, Springsteen has great admiration for those who have shed precious blood in the name of duty, for the love of their countrymen and for their concern to their beloved home, America. Closely looking into the chronology of events in the song, The Rising narrates the how dreadful were the days when Twin Towers crumbled to the ground after 911, how empty was the former busy city and how preoccupied were the people with worries fears and anger. Despite those scenarios, The Rising still calls for the best remedy at hand: to come up on the rising. â€Å"The Rising is an attempted portrait of a defining moment in American history† (G. Sanchez). After the creepy spirits above and behind and the faces gone black, Springsteen bring the listeners to the brighter side of things. â€Å"There are holy pictures of our children, dancing in a sky filled with light.† This made me think that Springsteen really is serious of being thoughtful and honest, which according to him will make people listen.   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Thats where your creative authority comes from. Thats how people know youre not just taking a ride† (B. Springsteen, Time Magazine). Springsteen seem to have a sincere purpose of inspiring America in the The Rising. At the end of the song is a description of the whole situation of the American nation after 911. â€Å"Sky of blackness and sorrow, sky of love, sky of tears; sky of glory and sadness sky of mercy, sky of fear; sky of memory and shadow.† All of the possible emotions of everyone who have witnessed the dreadful even were collected by the writer in one single song, clearly trying to make listeners understand that they are being understood and that the writer does grieve with them. But more importantly, the writer dreams with them of remaking America the sky of love and glory, of mercy and of fullness. â€Å"The Rising is about Sept. 11, and it is the first significant piece of pop art to respond to the events of that day† (J. Tyrangiel). The Rising, along with the other songs in the album, Lonesome Day, Empty Sky and Into the Fire, made it to the heart of the people as evidenced by the 526,000 copies sold on the first week of its launching and by making it at the No.1 spot in the Billboard Top 200 (Seattle Weekly). Its writer, Bruce Springsteen is just one of the many song writers who craft their songs for the purpose of carrying their listeners away. Where difference lies in recording the The Rising according to him is that he was writing about something that everyone saw and had some experience with, and obviously some people experienced it much more intimately.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

The Apartment essays

The Apartment essays The Apartment What exactly does the word meaning indicate? The dictionary states meaning as an implication of a hidden or special significance. In Humanities, the meaning of a film indicates the content, the perception, of what took place in a film. The main meaning of a film depends of the interpretation of a person. There could be one meaning or five meanings, but it depends on the person. The meaning of The Apartment is not a love story, but more of a drama about a man, C.C. Baxter, on a subconscious quest to become more outspoken and stand-up for himself. Characters, film techniques, and music all come together to make The Apartments meaning Characters are very important to a film, without characters, there would not be drama, action nor dialogue. C.C. Baxter is the main character who, throughout the movie, learns how to stick up for himself. Mr. Sheldrake and the four executives bribe Baxter into using his apartment by threatening to fire him. He does not stand up for himself, and lets the executives push him around. Miss. Kubelick, the love of Baxters life, helps him realize he is a pushover and needs to change his life. She helps him on his quest to become a better man, more Film techniques say a lot about a film. Whether the film is sophisticated, dreary, funny, romantic or even scary, film techniques help set the mood. In The Apartment, the director chose to use mostly medium shots and fade-out shots. We can see from the medium close-up shots the facial expressions of Baxter when he lets the executives from work push him around. The fade- out shots happen when an important event occurs. For example, when Baxter waits to get into his apartment, it fades out and goes into a shot of what is happening inside the apartment. From watching inside the apartment to outside with Baxter, we get a feel that Baxter is no ...

Saturday, November 23, 2019

To Kill a Mockingbird Overview

To Kill a Mockingbird Overview To Kill a Mockingbird is a searing portrayal of racial prejudice, justice, and innocence lost into a complex mixture of childish naivete and mature observation, while simultaneously being a sort of love letter to small town Southern life. The end result is a novel that is both a brilliant rendering of a specific time and place as well as a study in the meaning of justice, the loss of innocence, and the realization that a place can be both a beloved childhood memory and where you first realized there was evil in the world. Plot Summary Scout Finch lives with her father, a lawyer and widower by the name of Atticus, and her brother, a young boy named Jem. The first part of the To Kill a Mockingbird tells of one summer. Jem and Scout play, make new friends, and first come to know of a shadowy figure by the name of Boo Radley, who lives in a neighboring house and yet is never seen. A young black man named Tom Robinson is accused of raping a white woman. Atticus takes on the case, despite the vitriol this arouses in the largely white, racist townsfolk. When the time of the trial comes around, Atticus proves that the girl that Tom Robinson is accused of raping actually seduced him, and that the injuries to her face were caused by her father, angry that she had tried to sleep with a black man. The all-white jury nevertheless convicts Robinson and he is later killed by while trying to escape from jail. The girls father, who holds a grudge against Atticus because of some of the things he said in court, waylays Scout and Jem as they walk home one night. They are saved by the mysterious Boo, who disarms their attacker and kills him. Major Characters Scout Finch. Jean Louise ‛Scout’ Finch is the narrator and main character of the novel. Scout is a ‛tomboy’ who rejects traditional feminine roles and trappings. Scout initially believes that there is always a clear right and wrong in every situation; as Scout grows older, she begins to understand more about the world around her and begins to value reading and education more. Atticus Finch. Scout’s widower father is an attorney. Atticus is a bit of an iconoclast. He values education and indulges his children, trusting their judgment despite their young age. He is an intelligent, moral man who believes strongly in the rule of law and the necessity of blind justice. Jem Finch. Jeremy Atticus ‛Jem’ Finch is Scout’s older brother. He is protective of his status and often uses his superior age to force Scout to do things his way. He has a rich imagination and an energetic approach to life, but displays difficulty dealing with other people who do not rise to his standard. Boo Radley. A troubled recluse who lives next door to the Finches (but never leaves the house), Boo Radley is the subject of many rumors. Boo naturally fascinates the Finch children, and displays affection and kindness towards them, ultimately rescuing them from danger. Tom Robinson. Tom Robinson is a black man who supports his family by working as a field hand despite having a crippled left arm. He is charged with the rape of a white woman, and Atticus defends him. Major Themes Maturation. Scout and Jem are frequently confused about the motivations and reasoning of the adults around them. Lee explores the way that growing up and maturing into adults makes the world clearer while also less magical and more difficult, ultimately connecting racism with childish fears that adults ought not to experience. Prejudice. Lee explores the effects of prejudice of all kinds- racism, classism, and sexism. Lee makes it clear that racism is inextricably linked to economics, politics, and self-image. Sexism is explored in the novel through Scout and her constant battle to engage in behaviors she finds interesting instead of ‛appropriate’ behaviors for a girl. Justice and Morality. In the earlier parts of the novel Scout believes that morality and justice are the same thing. Tom Robinson’s trial and her observation of her father’s experiences teach her that there is often a stark difference between what is right and what is legal. Literary Style The novel utilizes subtly layered narration; it can be easy to forget that the story is actually being told by a grown-up, adult Jenna Louise and not the 6-year old Scout. Lee also restricts the point-of-view to Scout and what she directly observes, creating an air of mystery for the reader that mimics the childish sense of not quite understanding what all the adults are up to. About the Author Harper Lee was born in 1926 in Monroeville, Alabama. She published To Kill a Mockingbird in 1960 to instant acclaim, winning the Pulitzer Prize for fiction. She then worked with her friend Truman Capote on what would become Capote’s ‛nonfiction novel,’ In Cold Blood. Lee retreated from public life afterwards, granting few interviews and making almost no public appearances- and publishing almost no new material. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 89. Fast Facts Literature Study Guide Title: To Kill a MockingbirdAuthor: Harper LeePublisher: J.B. Lippincott Co.Year Published: 1960Genre: FictionType of Work: NovelOriginal language: EnglishThemes: Prejudice, justice, growing upCharacters: Scout Finch, Atticus Finch, Jem Finch, Tom Robinson, CalpurniaNotable adaptations: A 1962 film adaptation starring Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch. Peck won a Best Actor Oscar for the role, and Harper Lee expressed satisfaction with the adaptation.Fun Fact: The ‛sequel’ novel Lee published in 2015 just a year before her death is actually first draft of To Kill a Mockingbird that was rejected by publishers. Lee took what were flashback scenes to Scout’s childhood and built on those to revise the novel into what became To Kill a Mockingbird.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Marginalized Masculinity in the Snatch Movie Review

Marginalized Masculinity in the Snatch - Movie Review Example The film comprises two plots, which interweave throughout the movie. For instance, there are scenes of boxing matches that interweave with scenes of retrieving the diamond. Apart from characters who have varied tastes and traits, the audience is also introduced to many communities with different cultures; something that further causes more confusion when watching this film. The characters in the Snatch movie uniquely anticipate their survival mechanisms in London. Within these criminal activities, they undisclosed their home of origin. They broadly exercise the picture of a fat gateway driver, a rather vicious dog and a man-eating pig in their illegal boxing activity. In this film, the accent is purely penetrable English for both British and non-British audience. Perhaps, the adoption of pure English and the friendly nature of the marginalized characters in London would be a move towards acceptability by the London communities. In the spirit of this movie’s fair play, Guy adds a wanderer dialect in this moving picture. Living in London is not a bed of roses for these characters who are always trying to falsify everything they do in order to fit in the communities around them. A better life is seemingly fourth coming through the pretense of dialect. Whether you are an American, Jewish or Pikies, speaking in one gypsy dialect was the order of the d ay. This is done in the Snatch movie to reduce the level of curiosity by both the white and Anglo-Saxon Protestants on marginalized groups.

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Compare film messages Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Compare film messages - Assignment Example This is actually contrary to the main goal why the unions were established, helping people gain their rights like safe working conditions and wages commensurate to their efforts. The boss of the dock, Johnny Friendly can be said to be the Moneybag, making profits at all costs. Johnny engages in serious acts of murder, hiring people selectively. The people are filed with much terror and cannot testify against Johnny in the court. However, this silence is broken when Terry unites the people against Johnny and their strength helps to root out these leaders, which illustrates how people with unity of strength cannot be derailed by any kind of obstacle. The â€Å"Front,† refers to a comedy drama and film concerning some of the Hollywood artists that had been blacklisted in the times of live television. During this time, some of the famous directors, artists and writers had been rendered unemployable after being accused of being in support of Communism (Kasdan 65). One New York City cashier in a famous restaurant in the 1950s, Howard Prince has a friend that works for a television, since this friend is blacklisted, he requests Howard to write his name as the producer of some of the TV scripts (Kasdan 56). Howard agrees since he knows he will be entitled to s percentage of the proceeds. The scripts are accepted since they have a person not blacklisted. Later Howard lands in trouble with the Committee that investigates the entire production and programming (Dickos 67). He is made to face the reality of this industry, but accepts it gracefully since he had made some proceeds out of it. In the â€Å"Double Indemnity† film, the authors and directors of this film have used a very dark tone, which features in both thematic and visually. It illustrates of a hero that is led the wrong direction through lust and greed as well as fame. The indemnity film has made a great use of the shadows, which portray

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Sino-US relations Essay Example for Free

Sino-US relations Essay The improvement in Sino-US relations was the main factor promoting dà ©tente between Russia and America in the years 1969-75.’ How far do you agree with this view?  The Ping Pong diplomacy of 1971 begun a period of rapprochement in Sino-US relations. The ‘Chinese dimension’ to Cold War diplomacy threatened the USSR which feared a military alliance, and the Soviet Union moved to improve relations with the USA, thereby facilitating the process of dà ©tente. However, the fear of nuclear war, the escalating cost of the arms race coupled with the grim economic realities of the 1970s and the American withdraw from Vietnam and were also highly significant in promoting dà ©tente between Russia and America. The Soviet Union viewed the improvement in Sino-American relations as a threat to its national security, she was now confronted on two fronts and fearing military collusion, the Soviet Union sought improved relations with the USA. Soviet fears of the ‘yellow peril’ dated back to 19th Century and were reignited by the Sino-Soviet split of the 1960s. Climaxing in 1969 when the Peoples Liberation Army ambushed Soviet troops along the Usuri River, who suffered 59 casualties: this action was perceived by Russia as evidence that the Chinese had designs on its territory. Furthermore, following Kissinger’s secret visit to China in July 1971, the previously internationally isolated China, gained international recognition. She was admitted into the UN with a permanent seat on the Security Council in October that year. The result of this ‘triangular diplomacy’ for the Soviet Union was the relaxation of tensions with the USA through dà ©tente, the USSR believed this would offer the prospect of isolating China from the US and consequently decrease the threat of an coordinated attack. However, alternative factors also contributed to promoting dà ©tente between Russia and America in the years 1969-75. The fear of nuclear war and the escalating cost of the arms race pushed the Superpowers into pursuing better relations. By 1969 both sides had achieved relative nuclear parity in weapons and delivery systems, nuclear war would result in Mutually Assured Destruction. The extensive treaty systems both countries held in the third world, could result in small regional conflict developing into full scale nuclear war. Whilst the cost of maintaining this ‘balance of terror’ came at great economic cost, preventing much needed social reform. In the early 1970s the USA faced double digit inflation and widespread urban rioting in 1968. In contrast, the USSR had failed in its promise to deliver high-quality consumer products and faced falling GNP growth, from 5% in 1966-70 to 3.1% in 1971-75. These factors made it clear to the respective powers that improved relations were necessary to prevent nuclear war, agree on arms limitations and improve trade agreements: President Nixon and his NSC adviser Henry Kissinger’s successful policy of linkage meant the Soviet’s would recognise both superpowers had mutual interests in the Third World and opened up badly needed US technology and investment to the Soviet economy. Whilst the signing of arms limitation treaties of SALT 1 and the subsequent ABM treaty in 1972 was possibly the high point of US-Soviet co-operation engendered by Dà ©tente. Furthermore, the wider international situation of war in Vietnam and the situation in Europe precipitated improved Soviet-American relations. In the USA the war-weary public demanded withdraw from Vietnam which in 1968 had cost 16,889 American lives – pushing the administration of President Nixon to pursue better relations with Moscow; co-operation was vital to achieve a peace settlement with Hanoi. This being achieved through the policy of Linkage which recognised the Soviet sphere of influence. In return, the USSR would support American peace talks with the North Vietnamese. Furthermore, the uneasy territorial settlement of Europe created at Yalta in 1945, which had threatened possible US intervention in 1968 during the Czechoslovakian crisis meant US-Soviet co-operation was vital to ensure peace. The Helsinki Agreement of 1975 continued the policy of East-West dialogue over Europe begun by Willy Brandt’s successful policy of Ostpolitik during the late 1960s. The Soviet controlled Warsaw Pact gained official US recognition of the post-ww2 European borders, whilst the US largely unsuccessfully sought concessions over human rights issues from the USSR, which following the agreement were widely ignored. In conclusion, dà ©tente was the result of a variety of complex factors, driven by a war-weary United States counting the human and economic cost of militaristic confrontation of Communism in Vietnam. The United States under President Nixon recognised more could be achieved through peaceful diplomacy, whilst both Superpowers recognised that dà ©tente offered the opportunity to curtail spiralling defence spending and open up trade links between the nations. The improvement in Sino-US relations added an important Chinese dimension to Cold War diplomacy, but was not the main factor promoting dà ©tente between Russia and America in the years 1969-1975.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Civil Liberties of the Early Twentieth Century :: essays research papers

All throughout history civil liberties have been established, fought for, and abused. During the first quarter of the twentieth century, the civil liberties in the United States of America were tested. There were many events where the freedoms that our founding fathers had fought for Passive Voice (consider revising). Prejudice, fear, and racism all played a role during these events, during many of which they decided the outcome. Two events that demonstrate when the civil liberties in America were tested were during the trial of Sacco and Vanzettii and Schenek v. United States. Schenek v. United States was a trial in 1919 that reaffirmed the conviction of a man for circulating antidraft leaflets among members of the armed forces. This trial upheld the Espionage and Sedition Acts, which by many deemed unconstitutional. The Espionage Act of 1917 was a United States federal law, which made it a crime for a person to convey information with intent to interfere with the operation or success of the armed forces of the United States or to promote the success of its enemies. The Sedition Act forbade Americans to use "disloyal, profane, scurrilous, or abusive language" about the United States government, flag, or armed forces during war. The act also allowed the Postmaster General to deny mail delivery to dissenters of government policy during wartime. These two laws denied the freedom of speech that our sacred Bill of Rights was supposed to uphold. The antidraft flyers that Schenek passed out claimed to be freedom of speech so the government could not stop the cir culation of Schenek’s pamphlets. However, by passing out antidraft laws, Schenek had â€Å"the intent to interfere with the operation of success of the armed forces of the United States.† By doing this, he broke the law. He was sentenced to six months in prison for breaking an unconstitutional law. The government was trying to reduce the freedom of speech during a time of war so that the nation would be united as one. The opposition of some feared Woodrow Wilson and his cabinet so they took action by reducing some freedoms and imprisoning many people unconstitutionally. The scare of not being united under a time of war was the cause of the Espionage and Sedition acts. These acts immediately caused the unfair conviction of Schenek and put him in prison. Although he was utilizing his freedom of speech, the unfair laws passed through the government by Woodrow Wilson, Congress, and the Supreme Court forbade him his civil liberties.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

History of Modern Philosophy Essay

1- How, and with what success, does Hume deal with the apparent anomaly of the missing shade of blue? In A Treatise of Human Nature, Hume attempt to rid 18th century moral philosophy of what he considered to be meaningless and vacuous concepts underlying our theory of knowledge – be it metaphysical arguments or hypotheses seemingly formulated from the mere imagination of many philosophers. Influenced by the emerging trend of empiricism and naturalistic science – like Newton and Locke, which Hume owed much of his basic principles from – Hume presented the Treatise as an attempt to introduce experimental methods of reasoning into the area of moral philosophy. In the first book of the Treatise, entitled Of the Understanding, Hume devoted the first part – Of the Origin of our Ideas – for explaining the basis of his philosophical system that appeals on the similar empiricist approach as that of Locke’s. However, curiously, Hume had cited an explicit counter-argument – the problem of missing shade of blue – that could invalidate his whole philosophical system that is based on this central principle. Even more puzzling is Hume’s complacency with this problem, and although he considers the problem as singular and exceptional, he fully admitted to this counter example and did not try to resolve it. Yet, this case merits a deeper investigation, and it is this essay’s attempt to see whether his apparent complacency with the missing shade of blue would have any effect on the strength of his philosophical system, and other attempts to render this problem irrelevant. The problem of the missing shade of blue by Hume is as follows: suppose a man who is well acquainted with colours for thirty years and has seen all the colours in the set of possible colour spectrum, except for one particular shade of blue. Then, he is presented with a full spectrum of the shades of blue, from the darkest shade to the darkest, all except the one particular shade in which he has not yet encountered. It is then conceivable that this man would be able to produce this single missing shade of blue. The problem of this lies in the basis of the empiricist doctrine at which Hume is following, namely, that all ideas must be preceded by experience, yet, in this example, it is demonstrated that it is possible for an idea to precede sensation experience, as the man is able to produce the idea of the missing shade of blue without having first encountered it through his senses. At this point, I would like to elaborate more on Hume’s theory of mind and the origin of ideas as that would clarify why this example is so damaging to Hume’s system. As stated before, Hume’s project can be put into a general label of empiricism, which is a belief that all knowledge comes from experience. Much of his line of argument resembles that of Locke’s, another prominent empiricist. Hume even borrowed Locke’s key terminology to a certain extent, with terms like ideas and impressions. Locke believes that ideas are whatever the mind perceives in itself, or is in the immediate object of perception, thought, or understanding, as when one perceives, thinks, or understands, the ideas are before the mind. This limits all ideas to be originated from experience (perception), and also shows the connection between thought and perception and their interchangeable nature. The ideas can be divided into ideas of sensation (touch, smell, sight, etc.) and ideas of reflection (fear, happiness, sadness, etc.), which can then be separated further into simple and complex ideas, where complex ideas are derived from simple ones. Hume follows this line of argument with some modifications. He claims he ‘restores’ the term ideas to its original sense by classifying the objects the mind is perceiving as perceptions, not directly as ideas as Locke have used, and from perceptions he then distinguished them into impressions and ideas, where they differ in degree, as impressions are more vivid and forceful before the mind, such when sees a colour, and the ideas are more faint, such when one thinks of a colour after having the impressions of it. Hume then makes the distinction of simple and complex ideas, and by introspection, Hume demonstrates that one can think of any simple ideas and then find corresponding simple impressions that are exact copies of each other, and one can do this with any conceivable simple ideas. Complex ideas are different in that they are composites of simple ideas. And with this experiment in introspection, Hume then postulates his first thesis, â€Å"†¦ That all our simple ideas in their first appearance are deriv’d from simple impressions, which are correspondent to them, and which they exactly represent.† We may call this the Copy Principle, as it simply states that every simple idea is a copy of a corresponding impression. One of the most important components of this thesis is the fact that it’s a genetic one in that it shows the origin of ideas as following from impressions – as impressions to be the cause of ideas. Again, this is proved by the constant conjunction of simple impressions preceding simple ideas, which one can do to every simple idea one may have. Another support Hume gives is that of a man born defective of certain perceptive organs, hence, missing certain impressions (e.g. sight or sound), one would not have any ideas of those corresponded with the impressions, for it is evident that deaf people also have great trouble speaking. The genetic component is important in that they validate the empiricism doctrine on the reliance of experience. Anyhow, now we can see how the problem seems to defeat the purpose of this thesis. Moreover, a counter example, from a logical standpoint, one counter example is sufficient to turn an argument invalid. So why did Hume not deal with this problem? We may try to take it as Hume claimed the problem to be – a singular case where it is not worth investing time on. Being a singular case, one may have to take the argument in closer inspection. Hume states explicitly that the man in question may have enjoyed the sights for thirty years and perfectly well acquainted with all the possible colours except one, and that may be the attempt by him to restrict this to some specific scenario. It is implicitly embedded in the counter example that the subject of this example must be well acquainted with all the colours, such that one can make up colours in one’s mind, much like how only musicians of a certain skill level can sight read music. Thus, it appeals to some amount of ‘experience’ such that one may be bound to experience, habits, or personal background. Yet, when given further consideration, this seems to be invalid as well, as these restrictions do not seem to hold. As far as experience go, a child who does not know what ‘turquoise’ mean does not necessarily have an idea of the colour ‘turquoise’. So this case is certainly not an exceptional case and Hume had not dealt with it satisfactorily. Yet, Humean scholars have tried to find solutions for this problem and some even disregard it as a problem altogether. Firstly, the first objection to this counter argument is that there is no way to test whether the person in question does in fact have an idea of the missing shade of blue before seeing the missing shade or not. There is a great difference between being able to spot a missing spot in a complete spectrum of blue, and being able to produce an idea of the shade of blue without first encountering the impression of it. If ones sees a constant change in shade from, let’s say blue-0 where it is darkest to blue-255 where it is the lightest shade, then if there is one shade of blue missing, it would be quite noticeable as the mind notices the jump in gradual and constant change, but it does not follow that one could create an idea of that missing shade. To test this is also impossible, as if one is to reproduce colour, it still does not follow that he produces the idea since he would only be mixing the existing colours to brighter shades, and thus, after finishing mixing the colour, one then has the idea of the colour following the impression. All other ways of testing is equally futile because they all involve exposing the subject to the missing impression one way or another. Alternatively, if we look at the thesis again, and instead of taking it as a genetic form of the argument that Hume meant it to be, and instead, modifies it slightly to a more analytical empiricism form. Hume’s thesis on the theory of mind, upon closer inspection, can be taken as a form of meaning empiricism, in the sense that ideas to him are the same as different thoughts, which are different kinds of concepts, which is linked to when one understands something in a linguistic sense one is linking the word with the meaning, or the concepts associated to the word. Hence, if we think of the initial genetic content of the thesis, that impressions strictly precedes ideas, we may relax it slightly in favour of the analogy to meaning empiricism and forget its genetic form and instead formulate the following thesis: that all simple ideas must have corresponding conceivable and encounterable impressions. By doing this, we are no longer faced with the problem of the missing shade, since it is perfectly possible that the subject would be able to encounter this particular shade. Lastly, from a personal view, I see the problem of the missing shade of blue as not a problem at all, but Hume’s mistake lies in classifying colours as simple ideas. It is true that the impressions of light blue might very well be different than dark blue, so to speak, but to use Hume’s method, it is possible to separate using our imagination the components ‘light’ and ‘dark’ from ‘blue’. Thus, it is the impression of ‘blueness’ which is a simple impression, combined with the impression of ‘light’ and ‘absent of light’ that combine to give this multitude of shades of colours. Take this example, suppose some neutral shade of blue, let’s number it blue 124, were put somewhere with light, you will be able to see blue 124. However, let’s say for some reason, the room becomes lighter, certainly, the shade of blue 124 would have changed to some lighter shade of perhaps blue 200. If we vary the light in the room from darkest to lightest, it is then possible to observe from the darkest to the lightest shade of blue likewise. One may argue that the colour can be calibrated to some objective criteria, perhaps the ratio of pigments of colour blue of some sort, yet, that does not matter since all that matters to Hume is indeed only impression. Furthermore, using this example, we can also say that perhaps the subject of the experiment may have in fact encountered the particular shade of blue sometime before without acknowledging it. Conclusively, although Hume’s treatment of the missing shade of blue is very limited and very complacent, it is perhaps Hume’s own mistake for considering such example a ‘problem’, rather than the problem itself being a threat to his theory of origins of ideas.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

An Analysis of William Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream Essay

Renaissance humanists believed that if you want to build a moral society, you must begin with the facts of human nature. Basically, this means that their beliefs are rooted on what can be seen, touched, and heard. Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream crossed the boundaries of humanism and Shakespeare actually put in the play elements which humanists believe did not exist. For humanists, â€Å"Nature itself constitutes the sum total of reality, that matter and not mind is the foundation-stuff of the universe, and that supernatural entities simply do not exist.† (Lamont 145). This follows naturally that people then were with little, if at all, imaginative, and creative tendency. They were not keen to elements in literature such as fairies, or other supernatural beings; elements which are present in Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream. In the century preceding Shakespeare, â€Å"humanist† plays were often considered dull and moralistic, as they were often in didactic form. Also, another attitude of Humanism towards the universe â€Å"like its judgment as to the nature and destiny of man, is grounded on solid scientific fact.† (Lamont 145). They believed that man was the cream of the crop of God’s creation, and that the earth and everything that revolves around it are the center of the universe. Again, it’s not difficult to imagine that consequently, this philosophy not only affects the scientific aspect of the era, but also the culture, including literature and other arts. People also took a belief in the interconnectedness of things, for example a physician administering a medicine according to the position of the planets. But A Midsummer Night’s Dream, written sometime in the late 1500s seemed to have crossed boundaries. First of all, there are supernatural elements in the play which sort of went against the Humanist philosophy about supernatural entities not existing. Actually, the play is nothing short of magical. Not only do the mortals in the play associated with fairies, but the plot is manipulated by Puck, a hobgoblin. Bottom, on the other hand symbolizes a culture that survived from the Middle Ages until the Elizabethan times wherein â€Å"reign donkeys dressed up as bishops or dogs with Hosts in their teeth would appear in court masques.† (Bloom 73).   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Spirits and fairies cannot be represented, they cannot even be painted,   Ã¢â‚¬â€they can only be believed.† (Bloom 87). Apparently, this is not in line with Humanist philosophy, and this is what Shakespeare’s play brought people to believe also after the play’s publication. A Midsummer Night’s Dream is â€Å"Shakespeare’s first period of experiment with comic form.† (Bloom 7). Compared to his tragedies, this comedy not only was a trailblazer for rediscovery of classical literature, it also â€Å"knits together a number of different historical times and places, literary traditions, character types, and modes of thought.† (Bloom 7). Humanists also believed that â€Å"whatever he does man is a living unity of body and personality, an inter-functioning oneness of mental, emotional and physical qualities.† (Lamont 274). Apparently, in the play, when Puck put the magical love juice in the eyes of Demetrius, Lysander, and Titania, this premise is not evident anymore, as they were not in their â€Å"right minds† when pursuing different love interests. However, while Shakespeare challenged Humanism through his play, he also showed his influences through the characters, the plot and the sub-plot. Italian Renaissance was an event which influenced Shakespeare in a lot of his works, but Italian Renaissance differs slightly from the English Renaissance, aside from the fact that it preceded the English Renaissance. Italian Renaissance was centered more on visual arts but sonnets also bloomed through Petrarch and Boccaccio. By the time Italian Renaissance was coming to an end and English Renaissance was blooming, writers were then rediscovering the classical literatures from the Italian Renaissance and picked up the sonnets. Shakespeare apparently was one of those writers. Shakespeare’s influences with regard to some elements in the play come from Italian artists like the poet Ovid and the author Apulieus, which show Shakespeare’s rediscovery of the classical literature coming from the Italian Renaissance. For example, the story of Pyramus and Thisbe is told in Ovid’s Metamorphoses and the transformation of Bottom into an ass is descended from Apuleius’ The Golden Ass. Elements such as these show how vast Shakespeare’s influences are, and how experimental the play has become compared to his previous tragedies in terms of the characters and the plot.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I can say that through Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream, people looked at themselves differently, and appreciated more the beauty of the arts. Before Shakespeare, people seemed stuck-up and were conformed to being moralized by their literature. While it was necessary at that time, change is really inevitable. And through Shakespeare’s experimentation in the said comedy, different discoveries and rediscoveries enabled people to try out new things. Throughout the Renaissance, there was a significant change in the way people looked at the interconnectedness of things. Writers and thinkers questioned the connections, while retaining a sense of their beauty as symbols. A major change which this era experienced is that people interpreted the correspondences of things from literal to symbolic, and appreciated more the beauty of the symbols. Works Cited: Bloom, Harold, ed. William Shakespeare’s a Midsummer Night’s Dream. New York: Chelsea House, 1987 Lamont, Corliss. Humanism as a Philosophy. New York: Philosophical Library, 1949. â€Å"A Midsummer Night’s Dream.† Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Identify the Ash

Identify the Ash An ash tree commonly refers to trees of the genus Fraxinus (from Latin ash tree) in the olive family Oleaceae. The ashes are usually medium to large trees, mostly deciduous though a few subtropical species are evergreen. Identification of ash during the spring/early summer growing season is straight forward. Their leaves are opposite (rarely in whorls of three)  and mostly pinnately compound but can be simple in a few species. The seeds, popularly known as keys or helicopter seeds, are a type of fruit known as a samara. The genus Fraxinus contains 45-65 species worldwide. The Common North American Ash Species Green and white ash trees are the two most common ash species and their range covers most of the Eastern United States and Canada. Other significant ash trees to cover significant ranges are black ash, Carolina ash, and blue  ash. green ashwhite ash Unfortunately, both green ash and white ash populations are being decimated by the  emerald ash borer  or EAB. Discovered in 2002 near Detroit, MIichigan, the boring beetle has spread through much of the northern ash range and threatens billions of ash trees. Dormant Identification Ash has shield-shaped leaf scars (at the point where the leaf breaks away from the twig). The tree has tall, pointed buds above the leaf scars. There are no stipules on ash trees so no stipulate scars. The tree in winter has pitchfork-like looking limb tips and there could be long and narrow clustered winged seed or samaras. Ash has continuous bundle scars inside leaf scar looks like smiley face. Important: A leaf scar is the major botanical feature when keying a green or white ash. The white ash will have a U-shaped leaf scar with the bud inside the dip; the green ash will have a D-shaped leaf scar with the bud sitting atop the scar. Leaves: opposite  , pinnately compound , without teeth.Bark: gray and furrowed.Fruit: a single winged key hanging in clusters. The Most Common North American Hardwood List ash  - Genus Fraxinus  beech  - Genus Fagus  basswood  - Genus Tilia  birch  - Genus  Betula  black cherry  Ã‚  - Genus  Prunus  black walnut/butternut  - Genus Juglans  cottonwood  Ã‚  - Genus  Populus  elm  Ã‚  - Genus  Ã¢â‚¬â€¹Ulmus  hackberry  Ã‚  - Genus   Celtis  hickory  Ã‚  - Genus   Carya  holly  Ã‚  - Genus   IIex  locust  - Genus Robinia and Gleditsia  magnolia  Ã‚  - Genus   Magnolia  maple  - Genus Acer  oak  - Genus Quercus  poplar  Ã‚  - Genus  Populus  red alder  Ã‚  - Genus   Alnus  royal paulownia  Ã‚  - Genus  Paulownia  sassafras  Ã‚  - Genus   Sassafras  sweetgum  - Genus Liquidambar  sycamore  Ã‚  - Genus   Platanus  tupelo  Ã‚  - Genus   Nyssa  willow  Ã‚  - Genus   Salix  yellow-poplar  - Genus  Liriodendron

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

When to Use Already and Yet in English for ESL Students

When to Use Already and Yet in English for ESL Students The words  already  and  yet  are common words in English that generally refer to an event that has or has not happened before another event in the past or present: She hasnt finished her assignment yet. - The event has not been completed up to the present moment in time.Jennifer had already eaten by the time he arrived. -  The event occurred before another event took place. Already and Yet -Present Perfect Both already and yet refer to  activities that have or havent occurred before the present moment in time. In bother cases, the adverb  recently  could be substituted with the same meaning: I have already finished my lunch. Ive recently finished my lunch.Have you seen Tom yet? Have you seen Tom recently?They havent visited Rome yet. They havent visited Rome recently. Already - Referring To a Past Event Already is used to indicate that something that happened before the moment of speaking. However, it refers to something that affects the present moment in time. Lets take a look at a few examples: I have already finished the report. This sentence could be used to express the idea that I finished the report and it is ready to read now. She has already seen that film. This sentence might express that the woman saw the film in the past, so she has no desire in the present moment to see the film. They have already eaten. This sentence would probably be used to state that they are no longer hungry. The key to using already is to remember that an action that has happened in the past - often in the recent past - affects the present moment or a decision about the present moment in time. Therefore, already  and  yet  are  used with the present perfect tense. Already - Sentence Placement Already is placed between the auxiliary verb have  and the participle form of the verb. It is used in the positive form and should not be used in the negative: Subject have / has already past participle objects I have already seen that film.Mary has already been to Seattle. NOT!! I have seen already that film. Already is generally not used in the question form. However, when expressing surprise in a rhetorical question it is sometimes used in informal conversations and added to the end of the sentence: Have you eaten already?!Have you finished already?! Yet - Asking Questions Yet is used to check whether something has occurred up to the present moment: Have you seen that film yet?Has Tim done his homework yet? Yet  is generally used to ask about something closer to the present moment. Yet is often used when someone expects something to have occurred before the moment of speaking: Have you finished that report yet? - In this case, a colleague expects the report to be finished soon. Yet - Question Placement Yet is always placed at the end of a question. Notice that yet is not used with question words as questions with yet are yes/no questions: Have subject past participle objects yet ? Have you finished that report yet?Has she bought a new car yet? Yet - Negative Form Yet is also used in the negative to express that something that is expected has not yet happened. In this case, yet is placed at the end of the sentence. Subject have not / has not past participle objects yet She hasnt finished the report yet.Doug and Tom havent telephoned yet. Already - With the Past Perfect Already can also be used with the past perfect to express that something had happened before something else: She had already eaten when he arrived.Jackson had already done his homework when he was asked for help. Already - With the Future Perfect Already is also used with the future perfect to express that something will have been completed before something else occurs: She will have already finished the paperwork before the meeting.Frank will have already prepared the report by the time the boss asks for it. Yet - Coordinating Conjunction Finally,  yet  can also be used as a coordinating conjunction with the same meaning as  but  to connect two simple sentences into one. Place  yet  after a comma to introduce a dependent clause: Theyd like to go to that new restaurant, yet they cant get a reservation.Hed already bought tickets to the play, yet he wasnt able to attend the performance.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Teacher CollaborationCommunication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Teacher CollaborationCommunication - Essay Example Study group, formal as well as informal seminars and trainings, faculty presentation in conferences are some of the activities that promote teacher collaboration. It serves as venue for teachers to support each other's strengths, discuss their weaknesses, sharing of pool of ideas, strategies and materials. Teacher collaboration result in enhancing collegial relationship that breaks the isolation, burn out, and job dissatisfaction. Instead, teachers attain high level of professional fulfillment, enthusiasm at work and job satisfaction. Teachers become more equipped in the classroom, able to reconcile differences of colleagues and students and able to settle occasional conflicts effectively. Since there is collaboration, complex tasks are managed better, new ideas emerge, thus improve schools' curriculum and instruction. Although not uniformly good, teachers who have spent time to work with others have noticed significant improvements in their students' academic performance, attitudes and behavior, and attitude. Since teachers are living examples of collaborative behavior for their students, be it in extracurricular activities or in academic endeavors, students may be influenced by them.

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Critique of a research article Literature review

Critique of a research article - Literature review Example Medical articles can be well analyzed based on the content, the reputation of the authors among other useful information. However, it is paramount that evidence based practice (EBP) be adopted when analyzing an article. According to Sackett et al (1996, pg 71-72) â€Å"Evidence based medicine is the conscientious, explicit, and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patients†. The best available and current research is utilized in making a judgment about the article in question (Drisko and Grady 2012). The research article, Healthcare Providers’ Intentions to Engage in an Interprofessional Approach to Shared Decision-Making in Home Care Programs: A Mixed Methods Study by Legare et al., presents views of the healthcare providers in the implementation of the interprofessional approach to shared decision-making (IP-SDM). In addition, it evaluates their intention for engaging in the program. The IP-SDM program has been gainin g popularity in Canada but it is yet to be incorporated into the healthcare system (Reeves et al., 2008) Interprofessional approach entails the engagement of different professionals within the healthcare system, where all contribute towards the achievement of a common method of patient care. In addition, the aspect of shared decision-making entails the development of a system that involves the patients in determining the type of treatment that is given to them. The research concludes that the health professionals are not in any way opposed to the program (Legare et al. 2013, pg 221). The research objective is clearly defined by establishing the two main items under analysis, the intentions, and the factors behind the intentions of the health workers. The methodology was also defined and this article attempts to analyze it further by pointing out some of its strengths and weaknesses. The participants were healthcare providers with home care

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

I'va attached the file Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

I'va attached the file - Essay Example In Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia and Singapore, the process of democratisation has been studied through the muddled waters the civil society has waded to participate in national socioeconomic development, as shall be seen in the discourse that ensues forthwith. Thesis statement There is a clear and distinct relationship between the presence and vibrancy of the civil society and socioeconomic stability in any state, as can be seen in the ASEAN countries. Many political scientists contend that many have come to falsely believe that socioeconomic growth and stability can be realised through the attainment of strong authoritarian systems, due to the strong state apparatuses that these authoritarian systems possess. Countries such as Singapore and Malaysia are cited to underscore and validate this notion. However, a critical look at the development in the ASEAN countries indicates that authoritarian regimes inherently do not co-occur with socioeconomic development. ... The proximity of South Korea and Taiwan to Malaysia and Singapore could in fact have helped inject democratic elements such as political pluralism in Malaysia and Singapore. Chief among these democratic elements include the accommodation and acknowledgement of the civil society in politics. The very autocratic environment in which political plurality is absent is on the contrary, the very drawback that staves off stable democratic transitions and allows dictators to frustrate the actualisation of reforms and democratisation. Defined as the realm of activities and institutions that exist outside the government's direct control of the government, the civil society has mobilized the society on matters that are directly related to socioeconomic development such as corruption, governance and transparency, in ASEAN countries (Hewison, 137). The standpoint above about the civil society is well exemplified by the manner in which the civil society in Malaysia has concerted its effort to fight politically instigated economic corruption. On 20 March 2013, a group of civil society organisations asked the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to expedite investigations on a dossier that had exposed Tan Sri A. T. Mahmud, the Sarawak Chief Minister and his family as participants in an unlawful and corrupt land deal. Apart from the fact that the land deal was bound to cost the government its source of revenue; thousands of the indigenous people living on that land were to be displaced. Similarly, beside the call by firebrand civil society Aliran to have full investigations carried out over the matter, frantic calls were also successfully made by Haris Ibrahim and his colleges in the ABU movement, to have

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Corporate Social Responsibilty In Mauritius Management Essay

Corporate Social Responsibilty In Mauritius Management Essay The European Commission defined Corporate Social Responsibility as a concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basis. In other words, it concerns actions by companies over and above their legal obligations towards society and the environment. According to the European Commission certain regulatory measures can create a more conducive environment for organisations to voluntarily meet their social responsibility. Similarly, the National Empowerment Foundation (NEF) defines Corporate Social Responsibility as the concept whereby companies act to balance their own economic growth with the sustainable social and environmental development of the country. An organisation that is highly involved in CSR is one that goes beyond the legal compliance and actively practices positive impacts on the local communities and the environment. In fact, there is not a standard definition of Corporate Social Responsibility as it is varies according to various countries and cultures. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become an important issue over the last two decades. Lawyers, practitioners, economists, and civil society have contributed to defining, developing, and analysing the content, nature and implementation of CSR (P. R.Waagstein, 2011). CSR has been practiced by companies all over the world for many years as shown by many researchers. At the beginning, it was more for staff well-being. For instance, during the industrial revolution and age, factories provided different facilities for the community surrounding them in order to make use of their labour. Over the past few years, both businesses and academic researchers have shown increasing interest and enthusiasm for Corporate Social Responsibility. For instance, research done has suggested that CSR may be an efficient tool to improve the legitimacy of companies amongst their stakeholders as per Handelman and Arnold (1999), and to develop positive social responsibility images, according to Sen and Bhattacharya (2001). PROBLEM STATEMENT The term CSR has, over years, been coined to allow the economic development of a country to participate in the socio-economic development. By being responsible for society, the same industries were allowed to give back, in a responsible way, to people working for them and purchasing their goods and services. Amongst the different levels of society, the emergence of need for different categories arose, for example, handicapped people, abandoned children, out laws, the elderly and street people. Thus, Corporate Social Responsibility became a term used for catering to all categories of humans and their wellness in the society. At the onset, Corporate Social Responsibility was a voluntary initiative for companies to act socially responsible. However, over the years, especially in the new millennium, since complete improvement was not totally visible around the world, the United Nations proposed some Millennium Development Goals to improve the general conditions of living. One of their main goals was to eradicate absolute poverty in developing countries and underdeveloped countries. Indeed, the United Nations Millennium Campaign, started in 2002, supports and inspires people from all four corners of the world to get involved and take actions in supporting the Millennium Development Goals. As stated, the main challenges and major concerns of the International community is to eradicate absolute poverty, but this can only be done by the combined efforts of all governments, civil society organisations and the private sector. As mentioned by the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon the goals are ambitious but feasible and, together with the comprehensive United Nations development agenda, set the course for the worlds efforts to alleviate extreme poverty by 2015. The Government of Mauritius has established a policy with the objective of mandating registered companies to pay 2% of their book profit towards programmes that contribute to the social and environmental development of the country. In Mauritius, CSR has been formulated in the year 2008, when then the Minister of Finance decided that companies should reinvest 2% of their book profit towards societal development. To date, CSR has been practiced by companies for years and one of the main issues that arose recently is how to regulate it. Should it be a legal norm, ethical norm or social norm? This question can be further elaborated: Should CSR be regulated through state regulation, code of conduct or self-regulation? Should it be regulated in a voluntary way or should it be an obligation to corporations? Another question that arises is whether it is the role of the private sector to take care or to look after the society, or whether it is the role of the government to do so, since all companies are paying tax and the main objective of a company is to maximise profits. In addition, on a different perspective, another question emerges: should an organisation only focus on maximising profits or should its role as a so cially responsible organisation also include looking after its society and the community? Matten and Moon (2008) offers a broad interpretation, arguing that it should be perceived both as a social imperative and social consequence of business success. Accordingly, two forms of CSR, implicit and explicit, have been introduced. Implicit CSR is embedded in various relationships among business, society and government within the political system. It is represented by strong values, norms and rules or regulations which require corporations to address stakeholder issues. It is important to note that politics and organisations are interrelated and interdependent as they need each other to accomplish their social responsibility in an effective and efficient way. A textbook example in Mauritius would be the Compagnie Mauricienne de Textile (CMT) that has donated Rs 25m to the government for the new project of building a high tech school for vulnerable and deprived children. 1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The aim of this research is to determine the importance of voluntary or mandatory CSR for the overall socio-economic development of the country. In this context, the specific objectives are to: To assess the local opinion of CSR drivers and whether it is better as a mandatory or voluntary practice. This will provide a course of action for the new Ministry of Social Integration and Economic Empowerment. To provide for modifications in the local way of practicing CSR and to be able to answer queries of International organisations on eradication of poverty. To make recommendations so as to meet the targets set by United Nations and the Millennium Development Goals project, and to showcase Mauritius as a success example in Africa. 1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESEARCH In fact, Corporate Social Responsibility is mandatory in Mauritius and this research primarily focuses on determining the opinions, points of view and the experiences of companies that are actively engaged in CSR. Further assessment will be made as to whether they prefer a voluntary or mandatory implementation and determining whether the local way of practicing CSR has benefitted society and provided improvements in the current way local companies are practicing CSR. In addition, it analyses the need for mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility in Mauritius and determines whether the government should keep it mandatory or voluntary or both. It further develops the idea of whether voluntary CSR should be modified to some other form to cater to the needs of the Mauritian society. It also gives a comprehensive overview of findings and conclusions that will allow the local CSR Committee and Government to review and improve its CSR policies for the country. 1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS Based on the above research objectives of the study, the following research questions have been formulated: How organisations define Corporate Social Responsibility? Awareness of local CSR guidelines and what their opinions are and suggestions on the CSR guidelines? What problems they encounter while implementing CSR practices? How can the CSR Committee help in implementing CSR activities? How businesses perceive Corporate Social Responsibility as a mandatory practice in Mauritius. Should it be voluntary or mandatory? 1.6 STRUCTURE OF THE DISSERTATION Chapter 1 Introduction This chapter provides an overview of the topic research on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and sets out the problem statement of the study, outlining the objectives of the research and highlighting the research questions. Chapter 2 Literature Review This chapter reviews the literature relevant to the topic. It provides past reviews carried out by different researchers on Corporate Social Responsibility in various countries around the world. It also provides a description of CSR implementation in Mauritius and the similarities and contrasts that exist among the different countries. Chapter 3 Methodology The methodology chapter outlines the methods and techniques used to conduct the study, namely the research approach, design and strategy used. Information about the target population including the sample size and sampling method is given along with details about the interview questionnaire. Chapter 4 Analysis and Findings This chapter presents the data analysis and research findings. The source of data has been derived mainly from interviews that have been carried out. Further, discussions are based on the findings of this study. Chapter 5 Recommendations and Conclusions In this final chapter, appropriate recommendations will be made and the chapter will end with a concluding paragraph including the possibility for further or future research. CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 INTRODUCTION This chapter presents an overview of the literature relevant to Corporate Social Responsibility. It provides a review of the past studies carried out by different researchers. The idea of social responsibility emerged in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century. Carroll (1989) states three critical turning points in the evolution of social responsibility: The Entrepreneurial Era Businessmen in America were building industrial empires and were abusing their power, being found guilty of antisocial and anticompetitive practices. Such practices included tax evasion and other unethical business practices. This caused frustration among the public who voiced their objections, causing the government to enforce laws whereby business had a role to play in society beyond profit maximisation. The Depression era of 1929- 1930s The economy of United States was dominated by large organisations and the government passed laws to protect investors and smaller businesses. In addition, the social responsibility of organisations was more clearly defined. (iii)The Social Era of 1960s This era was characterised by social turmoil in the United States. The Government looked closely at organisational practices and it was clearly defined to whom the organisation was responsible and who in an organisation was responsible for the organisational practices. Bowen (1953) the pioneering advocate of CSR, described Corporate Social Responsibility in terms of the obligations of businessmen to pursue those policies, to make those decisions, or to follow those lines of action which are desirable in terms of objectives and values of our society. (Social Responsibilities of Businessmen, 1953). The emphasis was laid on peoples conscience rather on the company itself. This alteration in focus was provoked by a number of factors such as the managerial revolution and the mounting hostility of people experiencing social problems. The obligations were further elaborated upon, going beyond economic and legal implications by including the employee, the community welfare and the political and educational needs of society (McGuire, 1963). This gave rise to the modern concept of corporate citizenship (Maignan, Ferrell, and Hult, 1999). The Committee for Economic Development (1971) viewed CSR as the service of a wide range of human values to improve the quality of life. The managerial role in changing societal expectations has also been articulated by the Committee. On one hand, Manne Wallich (1972) mentioned that businesses should not spoil society but should provide solutions through voluntary assumption of obligations. On the other hand, Caroll (1979) summarised the discussion by providing the following definition: social responsibility of business encompasses the economic, legal, ethical and discretionary expectations that society has of organisations at a given point in time. Figure 1 Carrolls classic pyramid (Carroll, 1991) Carrolls CSR Pyramid covers the whole perspective of what society can expect from a company, economically as well as socially. This theory can be used to identify a companys CSR activities and how they use CSR as a strategy. It will further explain and recognise the connection between a companys CSR activities and its stakeholders. Carrolls CSR Pyramid can be used as a tool to clarify the different kinds of responsibilities that a company has to fulfil in order to achieve legitimacy from its surrounding society and stakeholders. 2.1 Definition of Corporate Social Responsibility Various organisations have viewed CSR in different ways, although there are considerable common opinions between them. According to Mallen Baker (2004), CSR is about how companies manage the business processes to produce an overall positive impact on society. Lord Holmes and Richard Watts (2000), in their publications Making Good Business Sense, defined CSR as: Corporate Social Responsibility is the continuing commitment by business to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as of the local community and society at large. This publication also provides some evidence of the different perceptions of what this should mean to a number of different societies across the world. It respects cultural differences and finds the business opportunities in building the skills of employees, the community and the government through CSR. Corporate Social Responsibility Developing Countries and Overseas Experiences In the year 2000 , the Millennium Development Goals set the challenge of Corporate Social responsibility in developing countries in view of eradicating poverty, hunger, providing better education to children, equal opportunities for women and a healthier environment (UN, 2006: 3). Unfortunately, in many developing countries these global aspirations have remained unaccomplished. (Visser et al., 2007) viewed CSR in developing countries as the formal and informal ways in which business makes a contribution to improving the governance, social, ethical, labour and environmental conditions of the developing countries in which they operate, while remaining sensitive to prevailing religious, historical and cultural contexts. According to a survey done by Welford (2005) in Asia, research showed that countries such as Hong Kong, Malaysia and Thailand where indicative of having less prevalent CSR activities. Malaysia is considered as the weakest in terms of CSR performance, with Thailand being relatively strong on external aspects (such as child labour and ethics) and Hong Kong being generally better on internal aspects (such as non-discrimination and equal opportunities). It was determined through a review done on CSR literature (Visser et al, 2006) that only 12 out of 53 countries in Africa have publications in CSR journals and that 57% of published articles focus on South Africa with 16% focusing on Nigeria. On one hand, CSR in the United States has been defined mainly in terms of a philanthropic model. Most companies focus on making and maximising profits and only contribute to charitable activities in an effort to benefit from tax concessions, contributing a certain share of the profits to charitable institutions. They believe that receiving any benefits from charitable sharing would tarnish the reputation of the company. On the other hand, the Canadian Governments perception of CSR is generally understood to be the way a company achieves a balance or integration of economic, environmental and social imperatives while at the same time addressing shareholder and stakeholder expectations. According to Cecil (2008), disclosure of CSR in the United States does not currently exist and is therefore unregulated as a required framework. In fact, various models and categories of reporting do exist under the umbrella of CSR, such as environmental reports, social reports and sustainability reports. Therefore the CSR report is separate from the annual report and represents non-financial qualitative and quantitative data. In contrast to other developed countries, Corporate Social Responsibility in the United States is not forcefully imposed. Companies in the United States participate in CSR based on their own moral and social values, allowing them to apply the triple-bottom-line approach voluntarily. In comparison, the laws of Mauritius state that it is mandatory for profit bearing organisations to pay the government 2% of their annual book profit as a CSR contribution. While companies in the United States have no mandatory obligation towards CSR, they widely exploit the CSR programme as a means of increasing their public image and corporate reputation. Given the fact that CSR in the United States is non-mandatory, companies can define and interpret their views of social responsibility within the context of own their company. Having this freedom has allowed them to better measure and promote CSR activities in comparison to their International counterparts. It is interesting to note that although companies in the United States are very explicit in their public statements with relation to their commitment to corporate responsibility, the lack of precise definition has led to confusion in terminology. A wide range of terms for CSR now exists, such as social responsibility, community investment and corporate citizenship. Each company tends to define them differently, yet having little understanding of what they actually mean, whether that is philanthropic giving, raw material sourcing or employment practices. Mauritius in comparison, although less developed than the United States, has a well-defined CSR programme as the mandatory enforcement of social responsibility has led to a single, precise and distinct perception thereof. The Government of the United Kingdom interprets CSR as the contribution a business makes to their sustainable development goals in terms of how they account for economic, social and environmental impacts. According to I. Pearson, Minister of the state UK, the world is experiencing major economic challenges and the issue of Corporate Responsibility must remain high on business and political agendas. He states that most successful companies have always been the most responsible. Business leaders recognise that Corporate Responsibility makes good business sense and it attracts the best talent, earns the trust of customers and the community and acts as a powerful investment for long-term sustainability. However, just like the United States, and in contrast to Mauritius, CSR is voluntary in the United Kingdom. The Government of the United Kingdom has adopted the voluntary approach as they believe it will motivate and encourage Corporate Social Responsibility through best practice guidance, and where appropriate, regulation and fiscal incentives. In the United Kingdom, CSR is viewed as a voluntary activity that should address both competitive and social interests. Mauritius does not share this approach and even encourages companies to contribute above the legal requirement to benefit the community and environment, invest in education and to help eradicate poverty. The question of whether or not CSR should be considered mandatory emerges when we consider that countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have no such legal compliance obligations. Why would a country like Mauritius, being a small island in the Indian Ocean, apply CSR as compulsory, especially considering that Mauritius is only the second country in the world where CSR is mandatory? NRE (Nouvelles Regulations Economique) law introduced in France in 2001 requires that all publicly listed French companies disclose information to their stakeholders pertaining to social and environmental impacts on their activities, together with their annual reports. There is no requirement for any specific constraints to be included with regards to their standards, thresholds or any other regulatory requirements. Although the law has been introduced, it should be considered as a soft law since the disclosed information is not regulated and there are no clear rules with regards to non-compliance. The legal responsibility is to report on social and environment impacts but without the requirement for certification of the disclosed information. In addition, the law does not clearly outline possible sanctions that may be imposed in cases of non-compliance or falsification of information. According to the research presented by L. Drusch and A.Lioui (2010) there has been a rapid growth in Corporate Social Responsibility in France over the last decade. This growth can be measured by the increase in the number of French companies that are listed in the Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) index in France as well as the listing of French companies in International CSR rankings, such as the 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World listing. Like the United States, CSR in France is based on the triple-bottom-line approach and is aimed at improving social, economic or environmental aspects in society beyond financial motivation. In addition, the United States does provide CSR reporting to some extent although not regulated and submitted in a separate report to the annual statements. In July 2007, Indonesia enforced a mandatory regulation regarding corporate social responsibility, being the first country in the world to do so. Based on the research done by Rosser et al (2008), Indonesia promotes CSR to local small and medium enterprises as a way to reach US and European markets. As compared to Mauritius, where the obligation is to pay 2% of the book profit, Indonesia has imposed a 3-5% obligation to be paid to the government. According to empirical data, the CSR law in Indonesia requires revision and improvement due to misinterpretations thereof, as well as lack of a precise definition. The law created a fierce debate and was heavily challenged as being nothing more than a philanthropy tax that was detrimental for business. Those challenging the law argue that there is no need to regulate CSR as sectorial rules have already been defined and introduced to regulate corporate responsibilities, such as the Environmental Law, Labour Law and Investment Law. The law is very unclear with regards to the governments expectations and has no clear definition of CSR. Unlike France, the law in Indonesia does stipulate penalties for non-compliance. Grafstrà ¶m et al (2008) identified that over the past three decades, the term CSR has been extensively debated by companies and in academic circles across the globe with a common goal: to identify a definition of CSR that all and sundry can collectively agree upon. Kemp et al (2001) observed that companies were hesitant to divulge their actual CSR activities due to the confusion that the term has produced over the past years. It was found that companies are reluctant to publish their activities for fear of reprisal by the media and NGOs should their approach be erroneous. Carroll (1998) found that companies often interpret regulations incorrectly and that laws often create a hindrance rather than improving economic performance. Although Mauritius followed Indonesias stance on mandatory CSR, being only the second country in the world to do so, the differences between the two countries can be easily identified. When the law was introduced, Indonesia faced fierce disapproval and the mandatory requirement is still an on-going debate. It remains mostly a disorganised and misunderstood concept whereas Mauritius appears to have a clearly understanding of what CSR actually entails as opposed to simply being a governmental tax requirement. The introduction of CSR into the Mauritian business environment was done so with a clear understanding on the benefits to business success, reputation and the social impact that such contributions would make on the island. Many are of the opinion that even if CSR was not mandatory in Mauritius, most organisations would still voluntarily contributing to CSR as a good business practice. Like Indonesia, India faced strong criticism when trying to impose mandatory CSR obligations in 2011. Their intention was to make it mandatory for companies to contribute at least 2% of net profits to the government. In July 2011 the Indian government backed down and made CSR contributions voluntary by recasting it as responsible business and issuing a set of guidelines for companies released on July 8th 2011 by the then Union Minister of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Murli Deora. The debate surrounding the mandatory CSR in India continues and the government has requested that companies keep records of their CSR spending in order to disclose to their stakeholders. The Companies Bill 2009 contains many provisions but none more debated than CSR. Salman Khurshid (the current Union minister for law) and Deoras predecessor, initially a mandatory CSR enthusiast, swayed his views that if CSR contributions were publicised, they would create competitiveness between organisations that in turn would encourage contributions. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce Industry (FICCI) suggested tax concessions to companies who reached voluntary targets. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), a rival of the Indian Chambers, felt that mandatory corporate responsibility would be counterproductive, arguing that companies may resort to camouflaging activities to meet such regulations, particularly during recessionary periods and economic downturns. Indias philanthropic community does not support mandatory CSR. According to research, the CEO of the NGO Give India viewed this as a crazy idea. He believed that once CSR is made mandatory, people will find ways and means to get out of it. The rules would be so vague that the reporting would be even vaguer. The CEO and co-founder of the Dasra foundation agreed. He was not in favour of mandatory CSR. He felt that when you make things mandatory, the chance of them not being done would be greater. Philanthropist Rohini Nilekani strongly opposed mandatory CSR believing that it was just outsourcing of governance. She felt that if wanted, the corporations should be taxed and the money put into social programs but that CSR should not be dictated. Corporate giants, TATA and BIRLA, have practiced Corporate Social Responsibility actively, decades before the term CSR became popular in India. Even still, CSR remains misunderstood in the Indian Development Sector. Only a few private and public companies apply CSR and those that do tend to have International shareholding from countries where CSR is considered a business best practice. India attempted to follow in the footsteps of Indonesia and Mauritius by imposing mandatory CSR regulations, the only other country to have actively considered such enforcement. It seems evident from the various researchers and the review of the various approaches and overseas experiences that there is a marked difference in the concept and interpretation of CSR world-wide. Mauritian Context In Mauritius, private organisations are reputed to have an extended culture and tradition of CSR, principally in terms of voluntary social engagement in the communities where they operate and in the society at large. They have participated and contributed over the years to the social and environmental development of the country. Previous survey reports published by the Mauritius Employers Fund (MEF) in 2006 and 2008 indicate that Mauritian businesses in their large majority believe that their role in society extends beyond wealth generation and that pursuing economic interests needs to be balanced with social and environmental responsibility. Indeed, Mauritian enterprises have been engaged in both internal and external CSR, driven mainly by ethical considerations, employee motivation, company reputation and brand positioning. They have also taken into consideration benefits of employees and engaged in external CSR initiatives by contributing and supporting social and community relate d activities. The MEF Surveys have also shown that CSR has followed a rather philanthropic approach, characterised by informal activities, unrelated to business operations and strategy. The recent economic and financial crisis has led to a rise in the level of involvement of governments in the operation of the business sector across the world. There is also an emerging debate in the Corporate Social Responsibility literature with regards to the role of the state in the business relationship. Despite the efforts made by government and International agencies, the global poverty problem is worsening day by day. Thus, the contribution of organisations to Corporate Social Responsibility for the creation of a better society is rising. Corporate Social Responsibility Mandatory in Mauritius According to Y.Ramtohul (Sept 2011), on one hand, in Mauritius, all companies such as those holding a Category 1 Global Business Licence under the Financial Services Act, banks in Mauritius whose income is derived from banking transactions with non-resident or corporation holding a global business license under the financial, IRS companies as mentioned in the investment promotion ( Real Estate Development Scheme) Regulations 2007, as well as any non-resident societe , a trust or a trustee of a unit trust scheme are exempted from mandatory obligation from contributing to the CSR fund. On the other hand , all other companies incorporated and registered at the Registrar of Companies of Mauritius have to contribute 2% of their annual book profits to the CSR fund as provided by the S 50L of the Income Tax of Mauritius ( Act 16 1995). According to the S 50L of the same Act the 2 % that goes to the CSR fund shall be used to either implement an approved programme by a company, an approved programme under the National Empowerment Foundation or to finance an approved NGO. It is the responsibility of the CSR committee to review these programmes or NGOs to be financed as set up under the S 50 L section of the Income Tax in order to have a better control and transparency about the investment made. It is also interesting to understand that if, in respect to a year, the amount paid out to the CSR fund is less than 2% then the difference shall be remitted as an income and will be taxed at the end of the financial year. Statutory Requirements As from July 2009, companies in Mauritius therefore have the legal obligation to contri