Hard Times: Many Symbols about Human Nature

In Dickens's Hard Times, there are many symbols that run through the novel. These symbols stand for much more than Just word you would come across multiple times as you read. Each symbol can mean something about human nature, human relationships, morality, and even about our society. Each symbol can have a different meaning to all of us. The symbols that came up frequently and that stood out to me as I read were staircase, Pegasus, smoke serpents, and fire. The first symbol that stood out to me was the staircase Mrs. Sparsit imagines. This ymbol stood out to me when Mrs.Sparsit notices that Louisa and Harthouse are spending a bunch of time together. As she notices this, she imagines that Louisa is running down some sort of staircase into a â€Å"dark pit of shame and ruin at the bottom. † I believe that this staircase represents her belief that Louisa is going to disappear with Harthouse and ruin herself forever. Mrs. Sparsit has disliked Bounderbys marriage to the Louisa and has always hoped to marry him herself. So this makes her very happy by Louisa's action to disappear with Harthouse. Through he staircase, Dickens reveals how Mrs.Sparsit's character is hypocritical. He also suggests that Mrs. Sparsit's own self misinterprets the situation between Louisa and Harthouse. She misinterprets this because she ends up in shame by having an affair with Harthouse and Louisa ends up returning home to her father. The next symbol that stood out to me was the Pegasus from Mrs. Slearys circus. Mr. Slearys circus entertainers would stay at an inn called the Pegasus Arms. The symbol is inside of this inn. On the inside of this inn, the symbol is a Pegasus that is a odel of a flying horse with golden stars stuck on all over him.This symbol, the Pegasus, represents a world of fantasy and beauty from which Gradgrinds children are not a part of. There is a point when Mr. Gradgrind informs the pupils at his school that wallpaper with horses on it is unrealistic because h orses do not in fact live on walls. He always taught the kids hard facts and nothing but them and to not have an imagination. The circus people however live in a world in which horses can dance and flying horses can be imagined even if they do not in fact really exist in the eal world.The name of this inn shows the contrast between the imaginative and very happy world of the circus and Mr. Gradgrind's belief in the importance of fact and to have no imagination. Another symbol that stood out to me was the smoke serpents above Coketown. The symbol was the streams of smoke that was in the skies above Coketown. These streams are the outcome of factories and industrialization. However, these smoke serpents also represent the obliviousness of some factory owners like Bounderby. He is always so focused on making as much money and profit as he possibly can.Bounderby concludes that the serpents of smoke are a positive sign that the factories are producing and making a g prott Bounderby tails to see the smoke as a torm of unhealthy pollution because he is so concerned about making a profit. He also fails to recognize his own abuse of the hands in his factories. He does not realize how miserable and poor his workers are and is more worried about his business and himself. The final symbol that stood out to me was fire. The first time the symbol fire stood out to me was when Louisa is first introduced in Chapter 3.The narrator explains that here is a â€Å"fire with nothing to burn, a starved imagination keeping life in itself somehow. † This shows that Louisa seems she has not listened to her father's beliefs against wondering and imagining. The fire also shows a certain kid of warmth. It is says that Louisa often stares into the fireplace when she is alone. She stares as if she sees things in the flames that others do not, like her rigid father and brother. However, there is also another kind of fire that stands out to me in Hard Times. The other time I think of f ire in this novel is the fires that keep the factories running.The fire provides heat and power for machines. This shows that fire can be an example of an evil that can be used as a greater good. Through this symbol, Dickens shows the importance of imagination to show the industrialization of human nature. In conclusion, symbols can mean and represent many things in life. People use different symbols every day to represent something that they believe in. For example, many very religious people may wear a cross around their neck to show a symbol of faith Just how the Pegasus from Mrs. Slearys circus is a symbol to the people to have an imagination.

Employment Agency Essay

Founding a particular organization requires a definite goal and utilities in order to achieve that objective. And since organizations need to have reliable staff and people who will function as the primary facilitator to execute the goals, then employing a group of credible individuals will benefit the organization. An agency can easily find the right people to fill different job positions of companies (Wikipedia, 2007). Apparently, one of the most common ways for an organization or office to recruit personnel for its different department operations is by coordinating with employment agencies. It really does not matter whether the agency is a non-profit, public or private type. As long as an employment outfit is able to render its services to an organization by sustaining its needs, then most probably a bureau will tend to request for assistance from an employment agency of choice. A person may ask, why would an organization utilize employment agencies instead of using its assets to hire laborers? The first possible reason may come from the aspect of cost efficiency. Primarily, organizations seek the help of these labor agencies because of the relative convenience the process can provide. Since agencies have a complete database of applicants for different fields, the organization will never undergo the process of coming up with an advertisement operation to gather qualified individuals. This will save the company a huge amount of money in terms of logistics. One more reason in using an employment agency is that an organization will be relieved from the responsibility of sustaining the needs of an employee in terms of labor welfare and rights. The agency can conduct all the necessary processes in order to help the organization provide the important aspects of employing people for its operations. Matters such as insurance benefits, social security membership and other labor related remunerations can be shouldered by the agency with minimal fees. Using the functions of an employment agency can greatly speed up the process of hiring for a company’s needs. Basically, the compatibility of the organization’s demands and the agency’s service will prove to be of great advantage for both parties.

Analysis of The Birthmark by Nathaniel Hawthorne Essay -- Nathaniel Ha

Although â€Å"The Birthmark† by Nathaniel Hawthorne was written in the mid-1800s, its themes and ideas are still a part of society today. The 19th century was a time of change, just as this, the millennium, is a time of great change. Hawthorne’s ideas about science, beauty, and life still play a major part in our lives, despite many improvements. Even today, people try to play â€Å"God† and change things that nature has put in place. It’s human curiosity; how much can be changed, how many things can be perfected? The themes in this short story-- religion, gender, and science--were relevant in Hawthorne’s day, and still are many years later. The theme of religion is hidden in the desire to erase the birthmark. In trying to â€Å"perfect† Georgiana, Aylmer is testing God’s creation. He doesn’t believe that how God created Georgiana is perfect, and he is obsessive about making her his idea of perfection. Aminadab, Aylmer’s servant, tries to tell his master to leave the birthmark alone. He tells Aylmer that if Georgiana were his wife, he wouldn’t worry about something so trivial. However, the scientific ideas on Aylmer’s mind won’t let him forget the birthmark. He believes he can remove it with the help of science. Even so, science has no part in creation, according to Hawthorne, and Georgiana’s death after the removal of the birthmark signifies that theory. Her death is Hawthorne’s way of showing that judgment and perfection are God’s duti...

Movie report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Movie report - Essay Example The sacrifices of the Jesuits in the movie closely mirror the life that Jesus lived in the Bible. â€Å"The Mission† is a movie written by Robert Bolt and directed by Roland Joffe. Produced by Fernando Ghia and David Puttnam, it stars Jeremy Irons as Father Gabriel, the head of the Jesuit mission, Robert de Niro as a former Spanish slaver who becomes a Jesuit, Liam Neeson as a young Jesuit, Ray McAnally as the Spanish cardinal sent by the Catholic Pope to look into the Jesuit missions, and Chuck Low as the Spanish Governor Cabeza who led the Spanish troops to attack the Guaranis. The setting of the story is in the 1970s. The movie’s historical background suggests that under the Treaty of Madrid, the Portuguese were given the power to take over the Guarani community, which at that time was run by Jesuit missionaries. The natives themselves resisted and many died including the Jesuit missionaries headed by Father Gabriel. The introduction presents an example of how the Je suits risk their lives in their mission to convert non-Christians. The scene in which one priest is salvaged by tying him to a cross and letting him run down through the Iguazu falls depicts how cruel the Guaranis could be towards the missionaries. In fact, history recounts Jesuit missionaries in different countries who died for their belief. Martinez (73) reports the death of eight missionary Jesuit priests in an attack in Mexico. Tylenda (372), Butler (68) and Molinari (26) also report the sacrifices of the Jesuit missionaries in different parts of the world especially in Japan, China and Southern America. The scene in which Fr. Gabriel plays his oboe in a river illustrates the courage and determination that Jesuits should possess in order to enter the mission. This is despite the death of the other missionary priest in the falls. Fr. Gabriel plays his instrument to capture the hearts of the Guaranis. Soaked in the river, he positions himself on a rock and plays his oboe until the Guaranis pay attention to him and ask him to come with them. Fr. Gabriel uses music to communicate and bring peace to the people because that is the only way to communicate with them. In sending his disciples, Jesus did not mention the use of music but he equipped them with different languages in order to spread the Word. On the part of the Jesuits, music serves as the way to capture the hearts of the people. In the latter part, we see the people singing in harmony, a scene that touches even the heart of Cardinal Altamirano. This shows the strategy of the Jesuits in converting non-believers. The music of Fr. Gabriel communicates peace and harmony with the people. Until now, Jesuits are known for the beautiful music they make, which one can hear from mass in Catholic churches. The movie also sets the example on how the Jesuit missionaries deny themselves of material pleasures in life. Mendoza, the Spanish slaver, leaves his armor and other personal belongings behind when he follows Fr. Gabriel. The scene is momentous because leaving his sack signifies Mendoza’s preparedness to enter the mission by denying his personal needs and embracing the missionary life. It is also in this scene that the Jesuits and the Guaranis welcome him as their brother. Based on his reaction, Mendoza experiences true happiness and finds relief from the pain caused by his

Capital Budgeting Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Capital Budgeting - Research Paper Example Capital budgeting is a resource allocation process that requires a balance between three factors, which include amount of resources that are to be expended, rate of utilization of those resources, and the time within which the investment starts showing some return in the form of profit. The basic aim of this report is to provide an in-depth understanding of important issues related to capital budgeting. The report also demonstrates the role of capital budgeting in the process of business development. Importance of Capital Budgeting Morgan (2006) states, â€Å"The success of a business depends on the capital budgeting decisions taken by the management†. Capital budgeting is basically a tool to evaluate, analyze, compare, and select the most appropriate project from a list of projects available for investment. Capital budgeting is one of the most important managerial tools, which helps the managers choose among different projects based on cash flows and rates of return. The mana gers choose those projects for investment, which are likely to generate considerable profits for their companies. In an interview with Mr. Darren Sammy, assistant manager finance department of Covrick Business Solutions, Sammy said that capital budgeting, if done properly, not only strengthens the financial position of the investing companies but also plays its role in strengthening the economy of a country as a whole (D. Sammy, personal communication, February 25, 2011). One can know the importance of capital budgeting by the fact that it increases a company’s credibility and profits by assisting the managers in the selection of most suitable investment opportunity for the company. Capital budgeting also helps the companies get considerable benefits from an investment over time, reduce the risks related to capital shortage, and increase the revenues. Three Important Factors There are some factors, which the companies need to consider while creating a capital budget for any s pecific project. Tatum (2011) asserts, â€Å"In order for the capital budgeting for a project to be attractive, the projections have to indicate several factors that will make up the outcome of the project†. Those factors include time needed to recoup the allocated resources, expected generation of revenues from the project, and amount of resources required to sustain the project’s momentum. It is a fact that a company, which recoups all allocated resources within a reasonable amount of time, enjoys more profits from the venture as compared to those companies which are not able to recover their investments in a short time. Capital budgeting for a project is successful if the project continues to generate profits for a long time. The graph of profitability generated from a selected project should continue to rise before leveling out, and this can only happen when the amount of resources required to sustain the project’s momentum are less than the amount of resour ces allocated to the project at the point of launch. Capital Budgeting Process Having discussed the importance of capital budgeting in the businesses and the considerable factors for budgeting, let us have a look at the capital budgeting process. The capital budgeting process helps managers select the most profitable projects from a pool of projects, time the projects’ expenditures, and include the selected projects into a

Water security among Egypt ,Ethiopia and Sudan- subject is Essay

Water security among Egypt ,Ethiopia and Sudan- subject is international relation - Essay Example 98). The river originates from mainly two countries. The White Nile from Burundi joins the Blue Nile from Ethiopia to form the Nile Basin. The Nile Basin is the major source of water for this region supplying ten countries with water. Egypt is the traditional user of the water and has almost exclusive rights for extracting water from the River Nile. Though a non-contributing country, Egypt benefits from a bilateral 1959 agreement that gives it the largest allocation in the utilization of River Nile’s Water. Sudan, another noncontributing country, gets the second largest share of the river’s resources. Other nations especially, the contributing ones have, for a long time, suffered water scarcity due to the unequal distribution of this water. This has created animosity between neighboring countries and was a source of conflict amongst the countries in this region. Countries upstream have, in recent time, considered controlling the use of the water (Adar, 2011, pp. 73). Some have, for example, built large dams and canals to confine their waters. This issue has been a major concern which the UN lists as one o f the most urgent political issues. Watershed countries in the Nile Basin have realized that a shift from the current state must be fueled by a more equitable sharing of the Nile water. This urge to exploit more water has been occasioned by the desire to achieve economic development. Ethiopia, for example, has initiated hydroelectric power projects along the river’s flow. Despite these efforts, however, economic development has not been achieved in many countries. Most of the countries in the region have long unresolved disputes that hinder the economic prosperity of the people (Jacobs, 2012, pp. 37). Civil wars, famines, strife, and internal and regional discord have been the order of the day in these countries. The disparities in the colonial agreement

Obesity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 4

Obesity - Essay Example In airplanes, they should be forced to buy double seats to allow them and other passengers to travel comfortably. Those who feel aggrieved by such radical measure should look for other means of transport or board a private plane Jim is ethical because he does not steal the software but he is rather given for the being a member of the BB network. Secondly, utilitarianism demands that people act on the basis of the greater good. In this setting, it is clear that the process of procurement of software by their company is hectic, and therefore to increase their efficiency Jim and his colleagues, they opt to download software. Lastly, by telling the truth to Thelma, Jim is ethical. Thelma is being harmed because she her moral principles on copyrighted product are also being violated. In addition, the software companies lose sales because of such networks. Thus, Thelma and software companies are the major victims. Having software in BB implies that people have the privilege of accessing or downloading them. Hence, these are acting ethically in the sense that they follow the required procedure to obtain software via BB. Further, it is the easiest or the fastest way to obtain software because it takes care of people who cannot afford to buy software. In addition, these people do not hack sites for software but rather share what they have between each other. Thelma has a choice of either not associating with site if she feels it is unethical or be part of the network if she can justify the actions and values based on utilitarian principle. However, considering her first reaction she ought not join the network at

Radio and mobile communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Radio and mobile communication - Essay Example tems developed in the first generation category were incompatible with one another for the reason that all they were operating at different frequencies. For this reason, mobile users had to change their mobiles when they moved to different countries. Since this generation was based on FDMA standard that why it supported only limited roaming and capacity. Hence, in order to deal with the problems of 1st generation, a new generation of mobile computing evolved in the 1990s known as 2nd generation of mobile networks (Joshi, 2012; Patil, et al., 2012). The design process of 1st generation cellular networks started in 1980 but the actual implementations of these networks appeared in early 1991 and continued until the 2nd generation appeared. Basically, this generation included the majority of currently used ubiquitous cellular networks. As compared to 1st generation networks, 2nd generation networks depended completely on analog FM and FDMA. Some of the well-known techniques used by 2G standards included Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and digital modulation formats with Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA). These systems are normally known as Personal Communications Service (PCS) in the United States. In this scenario, three TDMA standards (GSM, IS-136, and PDC) and one CDMA standard (IS-95) are believed to be the well-known standards of 2G networks (Joshi, 2012; Patil, et al., 2012). One of the major problems with 2G technologies was that it used circuit-switched data modems for this reason data users were limited to a single circuit-switched voice station. As a result, data transfer rate reduced to a very low rate. In fact, the majority of 2G networks supported a data transfer rate of 10 Kbps for all kinds of users. In this scenario, 2G networks were unable to support sophisticated short messaging capabilities and effective Internet browsing and. Short Messaging Service (SMS) is a popular feature of GSM. Thus, in order to help 2G standards overcome

International Business Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 2

International Business - Assignment Example The most significant aspects of the factors include the internet, air travel and other forms of transport and communication. In the particular case, air travel is very significant in the process of globalization. Since globalization and air travel are directly proportional, an increase in the activities of globalization tends to increase the establishment of global airline networks (Brueckner, 2011, p. 33). The formation of the networks gives rise to the airline alliances that are in existence today. An airline alliance relates to the agreement that airlines put forward with the aim of cooperating to a level that is in the accord. The formation of the coalition may be in various fields. For instance, there are airline alliances that tend to concentrate on cargos while others specialize in offering service to international passengers. In other cases, associations tend to form in order to enable the transfer of international packages, as well as the transfer of travelers. The establishment of the global networks is dependent on the strategic plus the environmental factors (Brueckner J. K., 2013, p. 17). The strategic factors are most crucial since they act as the indicators of relevance to the establishment of an airline. The instance thus creates the need to focus on the factors that constitute the strategic and environmental factors. To enable a concise development of ideas, the model of the Three Ring Circus will be very useful. The framework provides insight into the past, the present as well as the future traits that constitute the strategic factors that are significant to an airline network. Before the analysis using the model, the considerations of the routes that make up the regional, as well as the international networks, are important (Antonio, 2014, p. 668). An airline has a strategic advantage over other airlines in other countries depending on the natural placement of the state. If a country tends to be at a central position in relation to

A reflection on the care of a critically ill patient Essay

A reflection on the care of a critically ill patient - Essay Example Physicians are expected to make proper clinical assessments to determine whether failures are reversible or irreversible to determine the kind of decision to make. Such assessments are useful on determining whether to withdraw treatment, the kind of therapy to apply and many others. There are a lot of controversies that surround the aspects of managing MOF. This is due to the reason that there is no known treatment cause to be taken on patients with the complication. The field lacks proper research and controlled studies that will aid in giving proper care. Instead, the current methodologies in the treatment and care of MOF patients suggest the application of different immunotherapy patients which are often full of mistakes and inapplicable in some cases. Many players in this field also rely on information from laboratories and at times, many have accepted the use of unproved interventions to control the complication. Further, the field of MOF management lacks definitive diagnostic p recisions and this has been a major discouraging factor (Jevon $ Ewens 2007). All the above problems experienced in this field greatly contribute to the current lack of principled and well-defined rules to follow during patient management. This has made it difficult for physicians to realize what should happen when certain situations come up. This is one of the problems that one can identify when working with others in the area. Mostly, individuals apply what they think is right at certain times and expects families to consent to their determinations. Further, complications such as systematic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiple organ dysfunctions (MOD) presents complications that are difficult to identify and this has further worsened the situation in ICUs dealing with critically ill patients (Jevon $ Ewens 2007). Despite the above challenges, there have been multiple developments made concerning the issue of MOF. Further research has been able to make progress in det ermining the physiology of SIRS; the leading cause of multiple organ failure. Major pathophysiological mechanisms that are within the inflammatory conditions of MOF have been developed with better definitions of sepsis, SIRS and MODS. Health practitioners have made progress in ensuring the prevention of organ failure by ensuring optimum circulation and faster correction of hypoxia of tissues experienced by patients in high-risks. All these developments have been important in ensuring effective care to the patient. Application of the knowledge from the pathophysiology of SIRS, sepsis and MODS helps in the determination of the best methods as regards the care of patients. This paper will reflect on the self experience of taking care of a patient with a multiple organ failure. It will define the best methodologies for application under certain situations that can complicate the process of care to the patient. My experience as regards this issue is of a 57-yr old man who was found colla psed by his wife. Examination of the man recorded some existence of SIRS, the main observation being spontaneous breathing. Initial management was immediate intubation within the ambulance fifteen minutes after the arrival. He was admitted on hospital where a follow up of examinations were done to ascertain the cause and extent of the complication. A scan of the head was done which showed normal functioning at first instances. However, extensive coronary calcification was noted on the

Electromagnetic research Essay Example for Free

Electromagnetic research Essay We can relate the density to the scattering of radiation in the X-ray region by using the mass attenuation coefficient,  µ/? , and the mass energy-absorption coefficient,  µen/?. In the X-ray region (10-100 KeV), we will find that as the electron density increases, the x-ray signal also increases1. X-ray scattering is considered to be due to the electron density of the atoms in a sample2. J. J. Thomson derived a formula relating the intensity of coherent scattering from a particle. If the incident radiation is not polarized, then his relation takes the form: I(2? ) = Io [(e4)/(r2 m2 c4)] [(1 + cos2 2? )/2] where e is the charge of the particle, r is the distance from the â€Å"scatterer†, m is the mass of the â€Å"scatterer†, c is the velocity of light, and [(1 + cos22? )/2] represents the partial polarization of the scattered photon. An electron is 2000 times lighter than a proton. Most nuclei are made up of many nucleons that have an even greater mass than the mass of a proton. Because the scattered intensity is inversely proportional to the square of the mass of the particle emitting the X-ray photon, scattering of X rays from the nucleus is considered negligible compared to the scattering from the electrons of an atoms. We can conclude that X-ray scattering is due to the density of the electron. The probability for coherent scattering decreases with increasing photon energy and increases with increasing atomic number (increasing number of interfering electrons). As a fraction of the total mass attenuation coefficient, ? coh/? is maximal at atomic numbers around Z=10 and photon energies in the interval 30-50 keV. At higher atomic numbers, the relative fraction decreases due to the strong increase of photoelectric absorption with increasing atomic number3. In silicon, for example, the relative probability for coherent scattering is 14% at 50 keV. Let us refer to table 1, where the densities of elements could be found, and figures 2. 1, 2. 3 and 2. 4, the Absorption of Electromagnetic Radiation by Gold, Silicon, and Iron respectively. The density of silicon is 2. 330, iron is 7. 874 and gold is 19. 32. In the graphs, as the radiation increases we will notice that the absorption decreases. For gold, this will continue until it reaches 200 eV where a discontinuity takes place. In terms of the densities of the elements, as the density of the element decreases, the coherent scattering also decreases. For example, gold, which has an atomic number of 79, contains a higher electron density than an element such as silicon and iron (of lower atomic number 14 and 26 respectively); therefore the photon-absorption processes are stronger (higher  µ) making gold suitable as a radiation-shielding material. However, the decrease in ( µ) with increasing photon energy (below 1 MeV) means that relatively thick sheets are needed to absorb hard (short-wavelength) x-rays or gamma -rays, compared to soft (long-wavelength) x-rays for example. Photon absorption in the visible region of the spectrum depends on the atomic arrangement of the atoms and their bonding. Pure silicon (Si) is strongly absorbing but silicon combined with oxygen is transparent. For the energetic photons in the x-ray regime, photon absorption is much easier to predict and is independent of the details of atomic arrangement. It depends primarily on the electron concentration per unit volume. Since the concentration of atoms per unit volume only differ by factors of 2 or 3 from each other, the electron concentration in two materials can be estimated from the atomic number, Z. Gold (Z=79) absorbs x-rays much more efficiently than silicon (Z=14) or iron (Z=26). X-ray absorption does depend on the energy of the x-rays and decreases with increasing x-ray energy, E. Absorption decreases nearly proportional to the cube of the energy (i. e. absorption proportional to (1/E3). The eventual rise in  µ indicates that a third process occurs at high photon energy; this is pair production, in which a pair of elementary particles (a particle and its antiparticle of the same mass but opposite electrostatic charge) is created from the energy (hf) of the original photon4. In this case, the two particles are an electron and an anti-electron (more commonly known as a positron, whose rest mass m0 is the same as that of an electron but whose charge is +e). Pair production can be represented by an equation, which represents the conservation of total energy (or mass-energy): hf = 2(m0 c2) + K(-e) + K(+e) Here, (m0 c2) = 0. 511 MeV is the rest energy of an electron, which is equal to that of the positron, so the factor of 2 represents the fact that two particles of identical rest mass are created. K(-e) and K(+e) represent the kinetic energy of the electron and positron, immediately after their creation. If the photon energy were exactly 2m0c2 = 1. 02 MeV, the two particles would be created at rest (with zero kinetic energy) and this would be an example of the complete conversion of energy into mass. For photon energies below 2m0c2, the process cannot occur; in other words, 1. 02 MeV is the threshold energy for pair production. For photon energies above the threshold, a photon has more than enough energy to create a particle pair and the surplus energy appears as kinetic energy of the two particles. BIBLIOGRAPHY Giacovazzo, Carmelo. Crystallography. Retrieved 9 June 2008, http://xrayweb. chem. ou. edu/notes/crystallography. html. McAlister, B. C. and Grady, B. P. The Use of Monte-Carlo Simulations to Calculate Small-Angle Scattering Patterns. Macromolecular Symposia, 2003. The American Physical Society. X-Ray Radiation from Non-linear Thomson Scattering. Vol. 91, No. 19, 13 November 2003. Retrieved 9 June 2008, http://www. eecs. umich. edu/USL-HFS/TaPhouc_prl_03. pdf. Weidner, R. T. and Sells, R. L. Pair Production and Annihilation. Retrieved 9 June 2008, http://physics. pdx. edu/~egertonr/ph311-12/pair-pa. htm.

Different styles of leadership Essay Example for Free

Different styles of leadership Essay Marianne and Betsy do have different styles of leadership. Betsy is the more authority compliance manager and as well a little middle of the road off management. Marianne is more of country club management and as well as middle of the road. From experience with those management style. I think Betsy should focus more on what her direct manager wants. If your relatively new to a company, it would be very bad to rock the boat. I don’t think she should continue to follow the same leadership style because quite frankly it’s not working. However she should totally abandon her authority leadership style. Honestly Marianne and Betsy are at a point where they desperate need to work together to get the main goal in the right perspective. Marianne should become move of an authority compliant manager by giving her friendship with Bridget and Suzanne just a little separation. Betsy also needs to learn how to be more of a middle of the road team player management. She can’t rely on being too bossy, especially when her own boss tells her she is bossy that’s a very bad sign. Betsy and Marianne can work together if they both come to an understanding. Betsy is more in a jam then Marianne. Betsy works under Marianne and Betsy is a fairly new employee. If Betsy resist Marianne and goes to senior management it could possible jeopardize her employment. Furthermore Marianne has the majority vote amongst the staff. Betsy might have to loosen up her rings and join more of the middle of the road management or either takes some tips into the country club management.

Appraisal of the person centred approach

Appraisal of the person centred approach There are several therapeutic frameworks which can be used within different realms to help an individual with psychological problems they may be experiencing; cognitive-behavioural therapy, person-centred therapy or psychodynamic therapy, to name a few. Each therapy is distinct from each other in terms of methods of intervention and ideas and assumptions about the nature and sources of psychopathology. Each therapy is also, of course, considered by those who practice it, as widely applicable to the problems presented for psychotherapeutic treatment (Gabbard, Beck Holmes 2005; Feltham Horton, 2006). Within mainstream psychology, person centred therapy is often criticised because it lacks a solid theoretical and empirical foundation but in counselling and psychotherapy it remains influential. Definition and Theory The person-centred approach was established by Carl Rogers in the 1940s and 1950s. It offers a dynamic, process-focussed explanation of the development and functioning of personality, vulnerability to psychopathology, and of therapeutic growth toward psychological well being (Rogers, 1959). According to person-centred theory each individual is born with actualising tendency. This is what is described by Rogers (1951) as the built in motivation in every life form to develop to their full potential, within their own individual unique life circumstances and potentialities (Gillon, 2007). Although this is a controversial concept (Ryan, 1995; Levitt, 2008), and hence a main criticism of person-centred theory as a whole, it is a fundamental concept within the therapy; the therapy is rooted in the clients ability for awareness and self-directed change in their attitudes and behaviour (Bradley, 1999). Rogers theory of the person is made up of two concepts, the first being the organismic self. This is the true and real person that we are. Roger suggests that this is innate and consistent throughout our lives; we do not learn this concept of ourselves we just are. He postulates that it is within the organismic self where the actualising tendency exists. The other part or the person, as theorised by Rogers, is the self concept. This is the learned way of being and develops through the messages we receive from others. This begins in childhood with messages we receive from our parents and continues throughout our lives through interactions within other relationships. According to Rogers, a healthy self concept exists when we experience unconditional positive regard from the other people in our lives and are not placed under any conditions of worth. In contrast, an unhealthy self concept occurs when we are effected by interjected values and conditions of worth. In this state we often ex perience denial and distortion which are defence mechanisms which come into play when we do not fit into the conditions of worth. In Rogers theory, psychological distress happens when there is a poor fit between the organismic self and self concept i.e. there is incongruence. There is a disintegration of the self concept and there is often experience of very serious emotions such as fear, depression and anxiety. The goal of psychotherapy is to promote the self-actualization in the client. PCT utilises the presence of the actualizing tendency in the client makes it possible for the client to control and direct the therapy process, with the facilitation of the therapist. The therapist is not guiding the therapy but aiding the client through their own particular path; in person centred therapy, there are no specific interventions made by the therapist, as such. The Seven Stages of Change Through empirical research, Rogers was able to recognise identifiable features that characterise positions on a continuum of personality change effected by the process of psychotherapy. It is the belief that the client goes through the seven stages of change from incongruence to congruence in therapy which, at the end of the therapy allows them to offer themselves unconditional positive regard and trust in their organismic valuing process (Rogers, 1961). Stage 1 At this stage it is unlikely that the individual will present in a clinical or counselling setting. The person does not perceive themselves as having any problems and they have very rigid views of the world based on past experiences. An individual who does attend a therapeutic session at this stage is unlikely to return after the first session as the therapy seems pointless to them (McMillan, 2004) Stage 2 At this stage the individual has some awareness of negative feelings and is a little more able to express this. However, there is little inner reflection and often the problem is perceived to be external to them. (Cooper et al., 2007) Stage 3 This is the point where most clients enter counselling. At this stage, there is a little more inward reflection and a realisation of self-ownership, although this is not yet fully established. Often the self reflection is focussed on the past and there is a tendency to externalise present thoughts and feelings. (Cooper et al., 2007) Stage 4 According to Rogers, this is where the majority of the therapeutic work will begin. The client begins to talk about deep feelings and there is an increased tendency to to experience things in the present, although this is still often uncomfortable for the client. This is when the client begins to question their thoughts and perceptions of the world. (McMillan, 2004) Stage 5 At this stage the client has a true sense of self awareness. They can express present emotions and are critical of their own previous constructs, but often there is an acceptance e.g. That was a silly thing to do, but maybe thats alright because everyone makes mistakes? (McMillan, 2004) Stage 6 T here is now a rapid growth towards congruence and the client begins to develop unconditional positive regard for other. The previous incongruence experienced by the client is now embraced and challenged by the client. (Mearns Thorne, 2000) Stage 7 The client is now a fully functioning, self actualised individual who is empathic and shows unconditional positive regard for others. It is not necessary for the client to reach this stage and very few do. (Mearns Thorne,2000) Rogers (1967) emphasis that the number of stages are not crucial and they are loose terms with much interplay along the continuum. The Core Conditions As previously stated, the therapy is based upon the belief that the client will primarily bring about change, not the therapist, and the clients self healing will be activated as they become empowered (Casemore, 2006). Instead of making interventions, the therapist has belief in the inner resources of the client that creates the therapeutic climate for growth (Seligman, 2006). The client works within their own frame of reference and within the sessions there are six necessary and sufficient conditions which are referred to as the six Core Conditions, which must be present in order for the client to benefit from their time with the therapist and which are referred to by Rogers as necessary and sufficient (Rogers, 1957). The core conditions are not techniques or skills which can be learned but are regarded as personal attitudes or attributes experienced by the therapist, and communicated to the client (Gillon, 2007). Therapist-Client Psychological Contact One of these six core conditions is therapist-client psychological contact. This means a relationship between client and therapist must exist, and it must be a relationship in which each persons perception of the other is important (Casemore, 2006). In other words, a real relationship must be established between the therapist and Margaret, rather than simply just being in a room together. Prouty, Van Werde Porter (2002) have emphasised that such a relationship cannot simply be assumed and must be worked upon or, arguably, the whole therapeutic framework will fail. Establishing a psychological relationship with a client may be initially difficult, particularly for an individual who has previously had a bad experience of therapy, or simply finds it difficult to talk to other people about the issues they may be having, even those close to them. The rejection of help from people in pre-established relationships, such as friends or family members might suggest that there may be hesitatio n by the client, in establishing a relationship where the purpose is to gain help. Conversely, building a relationship which will provide an individual with the ability to help themselves may be appealing for such a person, and particularly when person-centred therapy removes the conditions of worth placed on an individual by their family and friends. (Todd Bohart, 1994) . The relationship between the therapist and the client is crucial to the person-centred approach and it cannot just be assumed but must be worked on (Prouty, 2002). Incongruent Client It is also a core condition that the client is in a state of incongruence, being vulnerable or anxious. It is only when this core condition is present that there is a need for change. This idea of knowledge of need for change is important, because the condition implies that, as a result of the experience of vulnerability or anxiety, the client is aware that they are encountering difficulties. (Singh Tudor, 1997) It is important for the client to be aware of their own difficulties as the therapy is based upon the client helping themselves without obvious intervention from the therapist. Without the knowledge of their problems and difficulties, it becomes impossible for the client to confront their problems and work through them. Often, the fact that an individual has asked for help from a primary care service which has referred them to therapy, or have chosen to privately visit a therapist demonstrates an awareness of their problems. If a client is not in therapy voluntarily, is host ile toward the process and the therapist, and is noncommittal about attending sessions, the likelihood of a positive outcome from the therapy diminishes drastically. Conversely, if a client enters the therapeutic relationship feeling a strong need to obtain help, are open and willing to give therapy a try, attend their sessions and establishes a helpful therapeutic relationship with their therapist, it is much more likely that they will benefit from PCT (Corsini,Wedding Dumont, 2007). Congruent Therapist Conversely, in order for the therapy to be effective the therapist must be congruent or integrated in the relationship. Congruence means that the therapists outward responses match their inner awareness and feelings; that they are genuine, real, open, authentic and transparent (Casemore, 2006). Rogers (1957) stressed that congruence is not a question of the therapist blurting out compulsively every passing feeling; rather it is a state of being. These feelings should only be expressed when they are persistent and of great strength and when communication of them assists the therapeutic process (Rogers, 1966, p185). By building this self-awareness not only does the therapist build trust with the client but it also reduces the likelihood that a therapists own experiences in relation to a client, such as distress or anger, will not be influenced by his/her own incongruence and thus conditions of worth being imposed. (Gillon, 2007) For example, if there is a persistent feeling of irritati on from the therapist in regard to how they perceive their clients behaviour, (such as the client rejecting help from family members being perceived as avoiding taking responsibilities for their own problems) this issue will need to be addressed in order to maintain congruence in the therapist in the relationship, and hence maintain a central core condition, to enable effective therapy sessions. The concept of phenomenology must be taken into account in such a situation. The multiple reality theory is defined as a subjective view of the world, constructed by each individuals collective experiences (Rogers, 1951). As a result, no other human being can possibly determine what is the correct or incorrect behaviour for any other individual. Therefore, the therapist must respect this, remain non-directive and supportive, and allow each individual the freedom to live according to this reality and to make all decisions about their growth and direction. (Kensit, 2000) It is notable that this feeling will have an effect on the core condition of congruence which the therapist must bring to the relationship within therapy. It is important for a therapist to be aware of what inner experiences to expose to the client during therapy and in what manner to do so. (Gillon, 2007) Taking the previous example of a feeling of irritation in the therapist, it can be seen that this feeling the ther apist is experiencing is not only putting the therapeutic relationship at risk but it may be an option, if this feeling persists, for the therapist to disclose this feeling to the client in a tactful way, as it may ultimately aid her in therapy. Congruent therapist self disclosure has been shown to achieve a more favourable perception of the therapist, and a higher attractiveness perception, as well as a greater desire to choose a therapist practicing congruent self disclosure over incongruent self disclosure. (Knox, Hess, Peterson Hill, 1997; Nyman Daugherty, 2001; Audet Everall, 2003) Self disclosure not only allows the therapist to remain in a congruent state in the therapeutic relationship but also a self disclosure by the therapist in relation to an issue which the client may be having difficulties confronting, may encourage the self healing process. However, within this solution lies a further problem, as sharing this information may evoke strong feelings from the therapist which could damage the therapeutic relationship which has been built with the client. It is a decision which the therapist must regard carefully and personally make the decision as to whether or not to share the information, by balancing the benefits and risks of this self-disclosure. Further to this it is important for the therapist to decide how much information is sufficient to share without overwhelming their client, or placing conditions of worth within the relationship. As previously mentioned, studies have shown that congruent therapist self disclosure is often a positive thing and so should not be shied away from (Knox, Hess, Peterson Hill, 1997; Nyman Daugherty, 2001; Audet Everall, 2003). However, it must be emphasised the importance of careful consideration before engaging in this technique, as if the self disclosure is misread by the client the relationship will be jeopardised, and the clients progress halted. Unconditional Positive Regard Another important core condition which must be present during a therapy session is that the therapist should experience unconditional positive regard for the client. This means that the therapist offers the person respect, acceptance (although it does not have to be approval) caring and appreciation regardless of the clients attitude or behaviour (Gillon, 2007). This non-judgemental attitude and acceptance of the client is important because it challenges the clients beliefs that they are only valued if they behave as required by significant others (conditions of worth). There is no longer any need for the client to shy away from aspects of their inner self which may be painful or that they may see as shameful because they learn that it is possible to be truly themselves and still be accepted. This is an important aspect of person centred therapy as it opens up the opportunity for the client to explore their anxieties and accept them within their own frame of reference. This, in turn, allows for the self-healing process which is central to person-centred therapy. Empathic Understanding Another core condition which must be achieved is that the therapist experiences an empathic understanding of the clients internal frame of reference and endeavours to communicate this experience to the client. In other words, the therapist enters into the clients world as if it were their own and has increased awareness of how an event or situation has affected the client. This will show the client that they understand them and that their views, feelings and thoughts have value. This will henceforth reinforce the idea that the client is accepted and will allow the therapeutic relationship to flourish to enable a deeper exploration of the self concept. This empathic understanding is often demonstrated to the client through the use of techniques such as reflection and paraphrasing. It has been demonstrated through meta analyses that empathy is a core component of most therapeutic approaches, despite various definitions and uses (Feller and Coccone , 2003). However, contrary to the idea s of Rogers, empathy appears to be necessary, but, not sufficient, for therapy to produce positive outcomes. An extensive review of research on empathy over the 1950s to the 1990s (Duan Hill, 1997), notes a decline in academic interest in the concept of empathy in therapy, since the 1980s. They found that that this appeared to stem from continuing methodological problems, which generally appeared to arise from difficulty is defining the various aspects of empathy. A further meta-study, which examined commonalities across various therapy types, found further support for the idea of empathy as a core concept throughout therapies (Beutler, 2000). As above, this does not require the therapist to experience the same emotions as the client, but to understand and respect those emotions. Client Perception of UPR and Empathic Understanding Arguably, the most important condition is that the client perceives this unconditional positive regard and empathic understanding of the therapist through the way the therapist is in session. This can be demonstrated through warmth, and techniques such as reflection, paraphrasing and clarifying. Not only will this reassure the client that they are being understood and so do not have to explain themselves, but it may also trigger further realisations about thoughts and feelings, which in turn will help the client to move through the self healing process with the prospect of increasing congruence. Todd and Bohart (1994) studied a group of patients in psychiatric care, suffering from varying degrees of psychopathology. It was found that when a therapist did not put conditions of worth on (i.e., judge) the patient they responded with more confidence and less hostility. This is an important finding when relating this therapeutic approach to practice, particularly for individuals who may b e reluctant to obtain help from friends and family; who are often the source of conditions of worth. By removing these conditions of worth an individual may be more open to getting help for their problems. As these conditions are actively removed in a person-centred therapy session, it is suggested that such an environment will encourage an individual to feel comfortable enough to open up and explore their thoughts and feelings within their own internal framework. The theory and necessary and sufficient core conditions which construct person-centred therapy will allow an individual to increase congruence and ultimately reduce the levels of psychological distress they feel. Through talking to the therapist within a session which incorporates the six necessary and sufficient conditions, it is hoped they will go through the seven stages of change and at the end of the therapy can be regarded as a fully functioning person, as described by Rogers (1961). Criticism and Limitations A frequent criticism of this approach is that the core conditions as outlined by Rogers, is what any good therapist does anyway. Superficially, this criticism reflects a misinterpretation of the real challenges of consistently manifesting unconditional positive regard, empathic understanding and congruence (Malhauser, 2010). This is particularly the case in regard to congruence, to the extent that some therapeutic techniques used in some other approaches are dependent upon the therapists willingness to suppress, mentally formulate hypotheses about the client, or constantly maintain a professional front, hiding their own personal reactions, there is a real challenge in applying these techniques with the openness and honesty which defines congruence. Nevertheless, as previously discussed, much of the meta-analysis research being carried out is showing the common factor of an accepting therapeutic relationship to be the pivotal aspect of any therapeutic approach. A PCT therapist may often run the risk, due to the nature of the role of the therapist in the relationship, to be very supportive of their clients but not challenge them. If a therapist directs the client to discuss contents that the therapist believes to be central to the process, the therapy is not client-centered. If the therapist arranges the ways in which clients relate to their concerns or to how they express those concerns, the therapy is directive and not client-centered. In this respect, client-centered therapy stands alone within the family of person-centered and humanistic therapies (Witty, 2007). Kahn (1999) discusses the concept of nondirectivity in person-centered theory. He argues that, since personal and theoretical biases are unavoidable, it is impossible for a therapist to be consistently nondirective. Furthermore, the concept of nondirectivity, with its focus on the psychology of the client, implies that person-centered therapy is a one-person rather than a two-per son psychology. The article quotes therapists who believe that when a clients autonomy is respected, a wide variety of therapeutic interventions are possible. The argument is made that therapist shortcomings may be a more relevant concept than nondirectivity. With the fallibility of the therapist and a respect for the autonomy of the client, Kahn postulates that therapeutic responses can become more flexible and innovative, increasing the power of the person-centered approach. It has been said that the only limitation to person centred therapy is the limitations of the therapist themselves (Dryden, 2007) and it is postulated that perhaps this is the key to effective person centred therapy. There has been criticism of the nondirective attitude associated with this particular therapeutic approach. There is also research that indicates that the personality of the therapist is a better predictor of success than the techniques used (Boeree, 2006). In saying that the techniques used are just as personal to the therapist and are often effected by their personality. As laid out in the core conditions, the therapist themselves must be congruent and authentic and so therefore must be constantly aware of their role in a session. It is important that self disclosure is considered and evaluated before brought into a session but similarly it is important that to both challenge and reassure the client, that it does occur at some point. It is a difficult balance to get ri ght but is crucial to the outcome of therapy for the client. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is often regarded as the most effective therapeutic framework practiced by counselling psychologists. This is due to high volumes of research into the effectiveness of CBT to treat a wide range of psychological problems which individuals may have. A recent development has seen NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) recommending computerised cognitive-behavioural therapy as a cost-effective and clinically effective practice (NICE, 2006; Mental Health Foundation, 2006). Although the benefits and effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural therapies are undeniable, and cannot be overlooked, it has, as with any therapy, its limitations and comparative research is showing that very little actually stands between CBT and other therapeutic therapies. The person-centred approach has been successful in treating many different psychological problems including anxiety disorders, alcoholism, psychosomatic problems, agoraphobia, interpersonal d ifficulties, depression, and personality disorders (Bozarth, Zimring Tausch, 2002). It is not, however, a suitable therapy to help someone who is suffering from more severe mental health issues such as severe psychosis, as it is unlikely that they will be able to engage with their own thoughts enough to guide their own therapy. As previously stated, it has also been shown to be as equally effective as CBT when used to help an individual who is suffering from major depression (Osatuke, Glick, Stiles, Greenberg, Shapiro Barkham, 2005); with the client in the aforementioned study being helped using CBT managing her needs better and the client being helped using person-centred therapy, accepting her needs more. The authors concluded that despite the qualitative differences, the success was equal in each case and suggest that there is more than one way of being psychologically healthy. A recent study (Stiles, Barham, Twigg, Mellor-Clark Cooper, 2006) into the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural, person-centred and psychodynamic therapies as practised in the NHS, took into account over 1300 patients, across 58 NHS care sites over a period of 3 years. They found that each of the therapeutic frameworks, either by itself or in conjunction with another therapy such as art, averaged similar marked improvement in individuals well being. This finding suggests that different approaches tend to have equivalent outcomes, an idea which is also demonstrated in other research in the area. (Shadish, Navarro, Matt Phillips, 2000; Holmes, 2002; Stirman, DeRubeis, Crits-Christoph Brody, 2003). For example, Lambert and Bergin (1994) carried out a meta-analysis of studies on psychotherapeutic efficacy, in which they found that there is only a small amount of evidence which weights one particular therapy above another and that most of a clients improvement is related to factors c ommon to all therapeutic approaches. They also propose that it is not the form of therapeutic style a therapist uses, but the therapist themselves which is the main impacting factor on the outcome of a therapeutic treatment. This finding can be considered to be a result of the Dodo bird verdict; a phrase conceived by Rosenzweig (1936). It is often extensively referred to in literature as a consequence of the common factors theory, which proposes that the specific techniques that are applied in different therapeutic approaches serve a very limited purpose and that most of the positive effect that is gained from psychotherapy is due to factors that the schools have in common. This is often the therapeutic effect of having a relationship with a therapist who is warm, respectful and empathic. Meta-analyses by Luborsky (2002) shows that all therapies are considered equal and all must have prizes. On the other hand, scientists who believe in empirically supported therapies (EST) challenge the concept. Chambless (2002) emphasises the importance of remembering that specific therapies are there for specific people in specific situations with specific problems and postulates that grouping problems and therapies, d etracts from the overall importance and individuality of therapy as a whole. Whilst there is much agreement about this, the Dodo bird verdict is still very much accepted within research and is especially important because policymakers have to decide on the usefulness of investing in the diversity of psychotherapies that exist, as demonstrated by the rise of CBT as the therapy of choice in the NHS. Cooper, Elliot, Stiles and Bohart (2008) released a joint statement at the Conference of the World Association for Person-Centred Psychotherapies and Counselling in which they stated that they believe it is scientifically irresponsible to continue to imply and act as though CBTs are more effective than other therapies. They base this opinion on the fact that more academic researchers subscribe to a CBT approach than any other therapy and these researchers get more research grants and publish more studies on the effectiveness of CBT, in comparison to researchers in other areas of psychother apeutic practice. They also take into consideration the previously mentioned research in which scientifically valid studies demonstrate that when established therapies are compared to one another the most common result is that both therapies are equally effective. In conclusion, the person-centred approach is an effective and well researched therapeutic method. It has been shown to have no less standing or effectiveness than cognitive behavioural therapy, despite being pushed to one side within the NHS. It is suggested that an increased scientific research evidence base may increase the likelihood of it being propelled to the same stature within health services as CBT, however as the therapy does not use standardised assessment, measures or clearly defined goals, it would be difficult to measure the effectiveness to the same degree. It is also argued that by researching the approach in such a scientific way it is deviating away from the core principles of the approach itself, which are humanistic. The principles of person-centred therapy are applicable out with the therapeutic relationship and the core conditions which Rogers defines as being necessary for effective treatment, are a valuable tool in allowing an individual to gain self awarenes s and aid their own recovery. It is successful in numerous settings such as family and couples counselling, as well as teaching and management and has been shown to be effective in conflict resolution. The person-centred approach is continuing to develop e.g. relational depth and configurations as outlined by Mearns and Thorne (2000), and will undoubtedly continue to do so with the continued work of key psychologists in the field. Word Count: 4897

John H. Johnson :: essays research papers

John H. Johnson was born January 19, 1918 in rural Arkansas City, Arkansas. His parents were Leroy Johnson and Gertrude Jenkins Johnson. His father was killed in a sawmill accident when little John was eight years old. He attended the community's overcrowded, segregated elementary school. In the early 1930s, there was no public high school for African-Americans in Arkansas. His mother heard of better opportunities for African-Americans in Chicago and saved her meager earnings as a washerwoman and a cook and for years until she could afford to move her family to Chicago. This resulted in them becoming a part of the African-American Great Migration of 1933. There, Johnson was exposed to something he never knew existed, middle class black people. Johnson enrolled in DuSable High School and was an excelling student. Because of his achievements, Johnson was invited in 1936, to speak at a dinner held by the Urban League. Harry Pace, the President of the Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Company, was so impressed with Johnson's speech that he offered him a job and a scholarship to attend college part-time. But his interest focused primarily on the operations at the insurance firm and eventually he dropped his studies at the University of Chicago. In 1939 at the age of 21 he became the editor of Pace's in-house magazine. Collecting articles culled from national publications, Johnson realizes he had struck gold. In 1941, Johnson married Eunice Walker and found a full-time position at Supreme Liberty Life. One of Johnson's job descriptions at Supreme Liberty Life was to collect the news and information about African-Americans and prepare a weekly digest for Pace. He thought that a "Negro newspaper" could be sold and marketed and have people to be very interested in it. In 1942, Johnson borrowed $500 from his mother's furniture and started the Johnson Publishing Company. Johnson got idea, The Negro Digest, and modeled it after the Reader's Digest but it took aimed at African-Americans. He launched the Negro Digest, which took a serious look at racial issues and featured articles from prominent black and white writers. The Negro Digest circulated around 50,000. The magazine featured articles about the social inequalities in the United States and gave a voice to the concerns of African-Americans. Within eight months the Negro Digest reached about $50,000 a month in sales. In 1945, Johnson launched his second publication, the Ebony magazine, in which focused on the diverse achievements and successes of African-Americans.

Essay --

Have you noticed that since the birth of the Nobel Prize, most of the winners are from Europe and America while no one is from China (except for Mo Yan, who won the literature prize in 2012)? As stated, the United States occupies less than 5% of the world's population, but seventy percent of the winners are from US while China that holds one fifth of the world population has only one winner educated in mainland since 1949. What exactly led to present situation of China’s education system? I think China can not foster a Nobel Prize winner because of too much homework, the unreasonable education system, and universities’ not professional enough academic atmosphere. The first reason is that the burden of students today is heavier and heavier. For example, too much homework occupies major parts of students’ spare time. Due to it, students become weighed down with the homework. What is worse, too much homework makes students be afraid of study and exams, which can result in the loss of interest of study. So we can conclude that what too much homework brings to students is not the chance to exercise themselves but excuses for them to evade study. Gradually they regard the process of doing homework as finishing an unwilling mission rather than a way to check up drawbacks in study, which limits the extra time in which students exercise the ability of thinking, querying, and practicing. If students don not have a right attitude towards homework and study, maybe they won not be serious about academic research either when they work in their own fields. Another reason is that the unreasonable education system also contributes to the present situation. Since the recovery of college entrance exam system, the concepts of education have... ... entertainment. Our politics, religion, journalism, sports, education and business are willing to become a vassal of entertainment†. When that happens, even doing the serious research will become a king of trick to attract people’s attention and then fall into jokes. In a word, these three factors contribute to the present situation of China’s education system. The downside of the Asian system is that the national standards do not do much to foster creativity Glenn Zorpette (n.d) We still have a long way to go to perfect our system of developing ability such as E.D.Hirsch Jr (1995) â€Å"higher order skills†, â€Å"self esteem†, â€Å"metcognitive skills†, â€Å"critical-thinking skills†, â€Å"mere facts† which are qualified for society development. I hope one day I can hear the news where a scientist or a writer educated in the mainland of china not other countries win the Nobel Prize.

Oedipus Tyrannos by Sophocles Essay -- Oedipus Tyrannos Sophocles Essa

Oedipus Tyrannos by Sophocles Sophocles uses a mixture of both visual and emotional imagery to create the morally questioning, Greek tragedy ‘Oedipus Tyrannos’. He presents the audience with an intense drama, which addresses the reality and importance of the gods that the Greeks fervently believed in. The play also forces the audience to ask themselves if there is such a concept as fate.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  From the very beginning of Oedipus, it is made clear â€Å"that his destiny be one of fate and worse†. The irony is that Oedipus unknowingly repeatedly predicts his own fate: â€Å"It was I who called down these curses on that man.† Oedipus has unconsciously married his mother and killed his father, just as the Oracle predicted. Fate is proven to be unavoidable to Oedipus as the play shows a devout belief in the Greek gods. The Gods are seen as both â€Å"protectors† and â€Å"punishers†, who can â€Å"turn fate back away†. The gods are shown to have power over everything and everyone, and whoever ignores them will be cursed by the â€Å"darts no one escapes†. Oedipus is one of these people who is seen to have ignored the gods’ warnings and therefore has brought a curse upon himself, and all those around him: â€Å"Nothing grows in the earth, nothing in the wombs of the women.† With the idea of fate comes the question of fairness. Does Oedipus deserve his pitiful destiny and if it was so pre-decided then why? It was yet again the God’s powers.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It may be difficult to avoid pitying Oedipus, as despite his obvious sins, he is shown to be a respectable and honest man: â€Å"I bear more pain for the people than for my own soul†. Sophocles uses irony to increase your growing pity for Oedipus as he searches for the ‘abomination’ that is soon to be revealed as none other than himself: â€Å"That man must reveal himself to me†. Oedipus is frantic to find the killer of Laios (his real father) so as to save the city from the â€Å"hateful plague† that the gods have brought upon them. When Oedipus gouges out his own eyes, the difference between visual sight and insight is clearly represented: â€Å"Light, let this be the last time I look on you†. Oedipus cannot bear to see the destruction that he has brought upon his family. â€Å"Would the sight of my children have been pleasant?† he asks himself, now left in the depths of shame. Due to the severe punishment that Oed ipus inflicts upon himself it makes it difficult for one ... ...time to pass judgement on himself by first gauging out his own eyes, â€Å"Ranting, they would not see what evil he was suffering, what evil he was doing†, and by then ordering his people to â€Å"Expel me from this land as quickly as you can.† Oedipus’ sense of dignity also swiftly disappears toward the end of the play, but he manages to redeem himself by accepting all blame for his actions and does not even attempt to pass it on to someone else. He could have blamed anyone from his parents, the servant that saved him as a baby and even the Oracle, but he does not. He shows great courage when he says: â€Å"My evils are mine and will affect no one but me.† Oedipus goes from a man who has unquestionable and perhaps a dangerous amount of power to a man who himself relinquishes all rule of his land to live a life of misery that he feels he deserves.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The gods and fate play a massive role in creating the tragedy, but Sophocles leaves it up to the audience to pass final judgement on Oedipus. There is a definite moral to this play and that is no one can ever know their decided fate until they die, for â€Å"How can we say anyone is happy until he has crossed to the other side without suffering?† Oedipus Tyrannos by Sophocles Essay -- Oedipus Tyrannos Sophocles Essa Oedipus Tyrannos by Sophocles Sophocles uses a mixture of both visual and emotional imagery to create the morally questioning, Greek tragedy ‘Oedipus Tyrannos’. He presents the audience with an intense drama, which addresses the reality and importance of the gods that the Greeks fervently believed in. The play also forces the audience to ask themselves if there is such a concept as fate.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  From the very beginning of Oedipus, it is made clear â€Å"that his destiny be one of fate and worse†. The irony is that Oedipus unknowingly repeatedly predicts his own fate: â€Å"It was I who called down these curses on that man.† Oedipus has unconsciously married his mother and killed his father, just as the Oracle predicted. Fate is proven to be unavoidable to Oedipus as the play shows a devout belief in the Greek gods. The Gods are seen as both â€Å"protectors† and â€Å"punishers†, who can â€Å"turn fate back away†. The gods are shown to have power over everything and everyone, and whoever ignores them will be cursed by the â€Å"darts no one escapes†. Oedipus is one of these people who is seen to have ignored the gods’ warnings and therefore has brought a curse upon himself, and all those around him: â€Å"Nothing grows in the earth, nothing in the wombs of the women.† With the idea of fate comes the question of fairness. Does Oedipus deserve his pitiful destiny and if it was so pre-decided then why? It was yet again the God’s powers.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It may be difficult to avoid pitying Oedipus, as despite his obvious sins, he is shown to be a respectable and honest man: â€Å"I bear more pain for the people than for my own soul†. Sophocles uses irony to increase your growing pity for Oedipus as he searches for the ‘abomination’ that is soon to be revealed as none other than himself: â€Å"That man must reveal himself to me†. Oedipus is frantic to find the killer of Laios (his real father) so as to save the city from the â€Å"hateful plague† that the gods have brought upon them. When Oedipus gouges out his own eyes, the difference between visual sight and insight is clearly represented: â€Å"Light, let this be the last time I look on you†. Oedipus cannot bear to see the destruction that he has brought upon his family. â€Å"Would the sight of my children have been pleasant?† he asks himself, now left in the depths of shame. Due to the severe punishment that Oed ipus inflicts upon himself it makes it difficult for one ... ...time to pass judgement on himself by first gauging out his own eyes, â€Å"Ranting, they would not see what evil he was suffering, what evil he was doing†, and by then ordering his people to â€Å"Expel me from this land as quickly as you can.† Oedipus’ sense of dignity also swiftly disappears toward the end of the play, but he manages to redeem himself by accepting all blame for his actions and does not even attempt to pass it on to someone else. He could have blamed anyone from his parents, the servant that saved him as a baby and even the Oracle, but he does not. He shows great courage when he says: â€Å"My evils are mine and will affect no one but me.† Oedipus goes from a man who has unquestionable and perhaps a dangerous amount of power to a man who himself relinquishes all rule of his land to live a life of misery that he feels he deserves.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The gods and fate play a massive role in creating the tragedy, but Sophocles leaves it up to the audience to pass final judgement on Oedipus. There is a definite moral to this play and that is no one can ever know their decided fate until they die, for â€Å"How can we say anyone is happy until he has crossed to the other side without suffering?†

Diary of Anne Frank

The Diary of Anne Frank: Literary Essay In The Diary of Anne Frank, we witness Anne mature much more quickly than a normal teenager would, an outcome of the conditions in which she is forced to live by. This is exemplified by her relationship with Peter, her confident knowledge in things unclear, and her patience when dealing with negativity enhanced by those surrounding her. When Anne first arrived in the Annex, she approached Peter with the enthusiasm of a child, excited about the prospect of meeting new people.Although Anne had taken notice that he was a boy of a similar age group, she did not consult it entirely, as it was not a matter to her concern. Later in the play, after Anne and Peter begin speaking as friends on a regular basis, Anne begins to see him as an individual and realizes that he really is an older and likeable male. Their discussions become more formal and the purpose for each day, as Anne fusses over her hair and Peter his outfit. Trapped in such close quarters with a boy, Anne begins to see the male population as more than just something to giggle over- she begins to see them as people, with principals, goals and morals.Peter gives Anne the opportunity to speak as an equal, to be listened to without prior-formed judgments and disregard due to her age. Anne speaks with passion and honesty, grateful and optimistic in her words, â€Å"When I think of the dearness of you, Peter†¦and the goodness of the people we know†¦Mr. Kraler, Miep, Dirk, the vegetable man, all risking their lives for us everyday†¦when I think of these good things, I’m not afraid anymore. † [84] Peter brings forth an unseen side of Anne, only witnessed in her diary.With their discussions, Anne is able to voice her thoughts, and her opinions do bloom: â€Å"I think the world may be going through a phase, the way I was with mother. It’ll pass, maybe not for hundreds of years, but someday†¦I still believe, in spite of everything, that people really are good at heart. † [84] With the help of Peter, Anne matures with unusual speed, as she is surrounded by adults and therefore impacted by their manner. Anne, being the youngest, has nothing to do but grow and learn, and her enthusiasm towards doing such further escalates her travels through adolescence.At this point in her life, Anne is on a journey to discover and shape her own character, beliefs and morals. All seems uncertain, and suddenly everything seems to way on ones shoulders. This is not an easy task or burden, not an easy period in ones life. Anne, however confused, takes it all in piece by piece, productively making her way towards adulthood. This takes years at a time, using around a tenth of a practical individual’s life. Anne, though, conquers many meaningful aspects in just a few years time.

Red Cross

Red Cross –   It is an international organization concerned with the alleviation of human suffering and the promotion of public health; the world-recognized symbols of mercy and absolute neutrality are the Red Cross, the Red Crescent, and the Red Crystal flags and emblems. – It is an international humanitarian organization (Red Cross Society) formally established by the Geneva Convention of 1864. It was originally limited to providing medical care for war casualties, but its services now include liaison between prisoners of war and their families, relief to victims of natural disasters, etc.Purposes: * HUMANITY – The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavours, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect human life and health and to ensure respect for the hum an being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all people. IMPARTIALITY – It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavours to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided soley by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress. * NEUTRALITY – In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature. * INDEPENDENCE – The Movement is independent.The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement. * HUMANITY – The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Moveme nt, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavours, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found.Its purpose is to protect human life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all people. * VOLUNTARY SERVICE – It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain. * UNITY – There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry its humanitarian work throughout its territory. * UNIVERSALITY – The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.In which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide. Blood Donation Program Although all blood is made of the same basic elements, not all blood is a like. In fact, there are eight different common blood types, which are determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens – substances that can trigger an immune response if they are foreign to the body. Since some antigens can trigger a patient's immune system to attack the transfused blood, safe blood transfusions depend on careful blood typing and cross-matching.There are four major blood groups determined by the presence or absence of two antigens – A and B – on the surface of red blood cells: * Group A  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ has only the A antigen on red cells (and B antibody in the plasma) * Group B  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ has only the B antigen on red cells (and A antibody in the plasma) * Group  AB  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ has both A and B antigens on red cells (but neither A nor B antibody in the plasma) * Group O  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ has neither A nor B antigens on red cells (but both A and B antibody are in the plasma)The approximate distribution of blood types in Philippine population is as follows: * O Rh positive – 44-46% * A Rh positive – 22-23% * B Rh positive – 24-25% * AB Rh positive – 4-6% * Rh negative – ;1% There are very specific ways in which blood types must be matched for a safe transfusion: * Group O – can donate RBC to anybody. It’s the Universal Donor. Recipients: O, A, B, AB * Group A – can donate RBC to A’s and AB’s. * Group B – can donate RBC to B’s and AB’s. * Group AB – can donate to other AB’s but can receive from all others. It’s the Universal Recipient.In addition to the A and B antigens, there is a third antigen called the Rh factor, which can be either present (+) or absent ( – ). In general, Rh negative blood is given to Rh-negative patients, and Rh positive blood or Rh negative blood may be given to Rh positive patients. * The universal red cell donor has Type O negative blood type. * The universal plasma donor has Typ e AB positive blood type. WHO CAN DONATE BLOOD? Anyone who: – is in good health – is between 16 to 65 years old (16 and 17 years old need parents consent); – weighs at least 110 pounds; has a blood pressure between: Systolic: 90-160 mmHg, Diastolic: 60-100 mmHg; and – pass the physical and health history assessments. EMERGENCY TOOL KIT FOR RED CROSS it is a tool kit designed to provide emergency response agencies with the series of planning tools to help prepare their personnel and their families for emergencies. – Plastic laminated ID card for family member(s) with special concerns. Indicate name, address, phone, who to call in case of emergency, contact details, the condition of the bearer and special instructions on what to do in case seen unconscious (e. . diabetic). For children who cannot speak, they must also wear the ID card (in case they are reported missing, anyone who will find them will be able to contact their parents). – Emerge ncy numbers to call (Red Cross Opcen, Red Cross Chapter, fire station, hospital, etc. ) – to seek for immediate help in cases of emergencies. – Red Cross 143 Emergency / Disaster Guide explaining what to do in various types of disasters. These should be thoroughly studied and understood before the actual disaster but must be kept for reference. (Teach all family members how to use it). so that they have an idea of what to do in case of disaster or calamities. – Maps with indication of evacuation sites and routes – so that they can transfer immediately in case of calamaties. – Whistle (This is highly suggested, use a whistle that is loud and has a compass on it. ) – serves as an alarm, for everybody to get ready. – Flashlight with extra batteries (self-powered flashlight is suggested) – source of light when electricity is not working – Multi-purpose knife – protection – Matches or lighter and candles (Do not use matches or candles until you are certain there are no gas leaks.There are commercially available waterproof matches. ) – source of light when electricity is not working – AM radio transistor with extra batteries or self-powered – need to monitor the news continuously to know the weather condition and any possible threats – Glow sticks – source of light when electricity is not working – Plastic sheeting or garbage bag – For floor mats, cover items so as not to get wet, or use as a rain coat. ) – Heating blankets – thin, easy to carry and warm – Ropes – used as a tie – Sleeping bag – promote comfort when sleeping at the evacuation centerFIRST AID KIT (STANDARD) The risk of accident or emergency cannot be taken for granted. It is important to be prepared. Always have a first aid kit on hand. First Aid is a life saving skill. Once you know how to apply first aid correctly, you can help save l ives. Call the Philippine Red Cross National Headquarters or the local Chapters for the following First Aid Kit items: – 1 Adhesive Strips (Pk50) –used to close small wounds – 1 Hypo – Allergenic medical tape 1. 25cm x 9. 1m – provide safety and comfort for adhesion to at risk skin. 1 Conforming Bandage 5cm – promote a comfortable bandage – 1 Triangular Bandage 110cm x 110cm – used as a sling on arm injuries – 1 Wound Dressing No. 15 – prevent exposure of wound – 2 Swabs Antiseptic – disinfects skin surface – 1 Tweezers metal 8cm – used to grasp small objects – 1 Scissors disposable – used to cut – 1 Safety pins – assorted (pk12) – used to secure something – 1 Plastic Bags – resealable – 100 X 180 mm – used as a bag – 1 Plastic Bags – resealable – 150 x 230 mm – used as a bag – 2 Gloves â⠂¬â€œ disposable – used in handling wounds 1 First Aid Quick Reference Guide – used to know how to do first aid correctly. I. Introduction Red Cross is an international organization concerned with the alleviation of human suffering and the promotion of public health; the world-recognized symbols of mercy and absolute neutrality are the Red Cross, the Red Crescent, and the Red Crystal flags and emblems. Red Cross has a Blood Donation Program. Donating blood is a safe process. A sterile needle is used only once for each donor and then discarded. Blood donation is a simple four-step process: registration, medical history  and  mini-physical, donation and refreshments.Every blood donor is given a mini-physical, checking the donor's temperature, blood pressure, pulse and  hemoglobin to ensure it is safe for the donor to give blood. The actual blood donation typically takes less than 10-12 minutes. The entire process, from the time you arrive to the time you leave, tak es about an hour and 15 min. All donated blood is tested for HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis and other infectious diseases before it can be released to hospitals. There are four types of transfusable products that can be derived from blood: red cells, platelets, plasma and cryoprecipitate.Typically,  two or three of these are produced from a pint of donated whole blood – hence each donation can help save up to three lives. Donors can give either whole blood or specific blood components only. The process of donating specific blood components – red cells, plasma or platelets – is called apheresis. One transfusion dose of platelets can be obtained through one apheresis donation of platelets or by combining the platelets derived from  five whole blood donations. Most donated red blood cells must be used within 42 days of collection. Donated platelets must be used within  five days of collection –  new donations are constantly needed.Plasma and cryopr ecipitate are stored in frozen state and can be used for up to one year after collection. Healthy bone marrow makes a constant supply of red cells, plasma and platelets. The body will replenish the elements given during a blood donation – some in a matter of hours and others in a matter of weeks. More than 44,000 blood donations are needed every day. The average red blood cell transfusion is approximately 3 pints. A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood. The blood type most often requested by hospitals is Type O. II. Article Philippine Red Cross calls for more blood donorsJun 30th, 2012 by  CityBlogs. by Felipo David G. Malcampo ZAMBOANGA CITY ? Philippine Red Cross (PRC) – Zamboanga City Blood Bank Manager Dr. Kelly Geronimo called on the public to donate blood to ensure regular supply for those in need. In an interview with Dr. Geronimo during the PIA Media Forum, he said there is a need for more blood donors to effectively serve the public as blood demand increased dramatically after Philippine Red Cross-Zamboanga City was declared the Regional Blood Bank. ?We noted an increase in the demand for blood since we now also serve Sulu, Basilan, and Zamboanga Sibugay, our three big neighboring provinces.Actually, the demand has tripled. The challenge here is how to meet the demand, and so we are reaching out to others for more donation, Dr. Geronimo said. However, Dr. Geronimo clarified that there is enough supply in the blood bank. ?We have enough supply of blood. But we need to have consistent blood donation to make sure we can serve those in need. Our advocacy is for more people to donate blood, he said. PRC-Zamboanga City Administrator Vic Liozo said they have intensified their education campaign on blood donation. ?We are going to barangays to educate the public on blood donation.In fact, we assigned a Donor Equipment Officer whose sole function is to encourage people to donate blood, Mr. Liozo said. As a result of their advocacy, PRC noted an increase in the number of voluntary blood donation in the city. From, 2010 to 2011, and even up to the first half of this year, we have noted an increase in the number of voluntary blood donation here. It’s actually a good improvement, and we hope to sustain this momentum, Dr. Geronimo said. Mr. Liozo added that their advocacy program now extends even to elementary pupils. ?We are inculcating in the minds of these young children the importance of donating blood.We tap them to recruit blood donors. It can be their parents, brothers or relatives who are qualified to donate blood, Liozo said. Since July is Blood Donors Month, the Red Cross has scheduled lots of blood-letting donation for the entire month in schools and other offices here. ?We have lined up blood-letting activities for the whole month of July. This will ensure that we will have enough, or even excess supply of blood in our bank. There will be simultaneous blood-letting activities in the entire country. There will be saturation of blood-letting activities next month†, Liozo said.Article source:  http://www. zambotimes. com/archives/48938-Philippine-Red-Cross-calls-f or-more-blood-donors. html III. Discussion and Reaction on Critical Issues Supply and demand play a huge role in blood production, and many times you will hear about blood shortages. It seems that these cries of scarcity are louder and louder every year. Why is it that there isn’t enough donors to keep the blood banks full like we would like to? Why is that bloods are in demand? Based on my research, 96% of us rely on the other 4% to give blood. There is a tremendous need of blood in hospitals.Many patients die because they are not able to cope with blood losses. The blood donated is used to replace blood during injury or accidents, major surgeries, help patients with blood disorders like hemophilia to survive, to help burnt patient replace plasma loss, raise hemoglobin levels on pa tients with chronic illnesses like cancer, kidney disease, anemia, and others. The Philippine Red Cross encouraged people to donate blood to avoid occurrence of blood shortage. They also go from school to school. It’s a good idea that they are starting to educate the young children about the importance of donating blood.Being aware to what is happening in this world is very important, as human, we live with obligations, one, is to care for others. By means of donating blood, we can save lives. We don’t know how many lives will be saved because of our blood donation. If we came to think about, there are so many people qualified in the blood donation program, and besides, donating blood won’t harm them; it will only cause a short-term and temporary headache or body weakness. And according to my research, those adverse effects or disturbances during and after the blood donations can be reduced or minimized.People may be afraid of donating blood because of lack of k nowledge. Information dissemination or lecture must be done first so that their queries about it will be answered. I believe that after the lectures, there will be an increase in the blood donors because their fears of the unknown will be lessened. It’s a nice thing that the officials are doing their part to help increase the blood supply in our country. The Philippine Red Cross cannot do the entire job; they need some volunteers to inform everybody if possible the importance of blood donation.

Mumbai Slums Essay

An earthquake occurs when there is a sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust that causes seismic waves. Earthquakes are typically caused by opening of geological faults. They are however also caused by volcanic activity, landslides, mine blasts, and nuclear experiments. The effects of earthquakes are many and far reaching. Earthquakes cause shaking and ground ruptures which result in less or sometimes more severe damage to buildings or other rigid structures. Earthquakes also results in landslides and avalanches, which sometimes causes damage in hilly and mountain areas. After an earthquake, the place can catch fire by breaking of the electrical power or gas lines. Because of the shaking, sometimes the soil liquefies, the loose saturated cohesion less soil loses its strength and temporarily transforms from a solid to a liquid state. Soil liquefaction causes firm structures like buildings and bridges to slant or sink into a liquefied state. Earthquakes result in loss of life, damage to property, fatal diseases, lack of basic necessities and it affects the financial and economical structure of the country. Some safety measures are used so that the government, individual and businesses can prepare themselves against this calamity. To reduce the damage, retrofitting techniques and modern earthquake resistant designs of new buildings and lifeline structures like bridges, hospitals and power plants are used in earthquake prone areas. The emergency services under the local and state government ensure that the public is safe by dealing with the crisis. Individuals and businesses are encouraged by governments to have an earthquake kit and supplies for three days at hand. As a result of an increase of the number of seismic stations today, the earthquakes are reported more than in the past, which help in the preparation process. Slums in Mumbai Slums always existed in Mumbai. In 19th century, slums grew around mills and other places of employment. Now they grow where ever there is empty space. Slum dwellers today cover 60% of Mumbai’s population. The government tried to rectify the problem in 1985 by passing the Slum Upgradation Project. Regrettable the project targeted only 10-12% of the slum population, those who were able to of upgrade their homes. It ignored inhabitants in slums, those who did not have homes at all. In spite of all the attempts to cure the problem of slums in Mumbai, slums are still growing. The growth rate of slums is actually greater than the growth rate of general urban. It is estimated that everyday 100 to 300 new families come to Mumbai. Most of them end up in a slum colony or just put up a shanty on the on the footpath. Due to migration, the city’s population is increasing and with it the slums. These facts show that migration has to stop to cure the problem of slums. According to Professor RN Sharma, (the head of the Urban Studies Unit in Tata Institute of Social Sciences), Mumbai, the city is unquestionably disintegrating into slums. A Jockin of SPARC, (the NGO that works for slums) said that the rehabilitation process is the only solution to the problem of slums in Mumbai. He said: â€Å"This talk about Mumbai having predominantly slums is rubbish. Already 67 per cent of slums on railway land have been re-settled. The airport project and the rehabilitation near Mithi River is also happening at a good pace. These figures of slum population rising is not true†. Former housing minister Nawab Mallik also agreed that rehabilitation is a best way to get rid of slums. References: Earthquake. (2007, November 4). Retrieved November 5, 2007 from World Wide Web: http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Earthquake Juneja, Saakshi. (2006, January 9). Mumbai Slums. Retrieved November 5, 2007 from the World Wide Web: http://mumbai. metblogs. com/archives/2006/01/mumbai_slums. phtml Slums. Retrieved November 5, 2007 from the World Wide Web: http://www. macalester. edu/courses/GEOG61/espencer/slums. html Slums: The Magnitude of the Problem. Retrieved November 5, 2007 from World Wide Web: http://theory. tifr. res. in/bombay/amenities/housing/slum-stats. html