Total Rewards Program Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Total Rewards Program - Case Study Example g back to several millennia in ancient China and the fabled old city of Babylon under Hammurabi (1750 B.C.E.); a key concept of insurance as a form of protection against any financial losses has stayed the same all throughout from ancient times to modern times. Another vital concept in modern insurance is the use of statistical data and probabilities to determine insurance rates, using actuarial science. In this regard, it has become almost an entirely mechanical process, using powerful computers to determine the risk premiums suitable for an insurable risk, to be able to produce a profit. The original use of insurance was to protect traders who transport their goods using the sometimes treacherous or dangerous river rapids in ancient China from a possible sinking of the boat carrying the goods. In the probability a boat had capsized, the indemnification a trader gets from the insurance will ensure he can rise again financially. In Babylon, the concept of insurance had a much different application. A sea merchant whose ship sinks in the Mediterranean Sea can expect to recoup his losses, because he had paid a premium on the loan to finance his expedition. That extra premium will enable the lender to cancel the loan in case of a ship sinking. In todays capitalist, free-market environment, insurance coverage extends to many situations, such as life, car, boat, condominium unit, motorcycle, or anything of value, even the health of a person. Insurance is a financial product that needs to be sold aggressively, as opposed to other consumer products which people simply buy on their own initiative. Unless it is mandated, as in the case of the new health insurance coverage as required by law under the health reform act, it is a product that most people would rather do without, as premium payment is an added expense. It is therefore important for an insurance firm to have a wide network of sales agents who will push its insurance policies, preferably exclusively with

Contemporary studies in physical education Essay Example for Free

Contemporary studies in physical education Essay There are many ways in which the sport of football is controlled and organised, a majority of the sport is monitored and controlled by governing bodies that distribute funds, organise competitions, present awards and ultimately promote the sport so that football can be accessible to everyone. One of the main football governing bodies is UEFA. The Union of European Football Associations governs football all over Europe and makes sure the rules that are formed by this organisation are enforced and abided by, as well as organising competitions and so on. Moreover, as I live in Wales I will talk about the Football Association of Wales or FAW. The FAW are more of a regional organisation that relay rules etc. from UEFA and make sure that there are competitions, and matches taking place all over Wales, as well as distributing limited funds to grass roots schemes and to various clubs in the region. The FAW are based in Cardiff, the capitol, of Wales, which is, in itself relevant as it means that it is easily located. Here are some details I obtained from UEFA.com: Personnel: Communications: President Address Desmond W. Shanklin. Plymouth Chambers, 3 Westgate General Secretary Street GB David George Collins. Cardiff CF10 1DP Head Coach Telephone Leslie Mark Hughes. +44 29 2037 2325 Press Officer Fax David George Collins. +44 29 2034 3961 As you can see there are quite a number of personnel working at the top of the FAW, these people make sure that everything goes as much to plan as possible and also make sure that there is some sort of authority associated with the sport. This governing body organises a lot of competitions around Wales resulting in leagues and league tables being formed, one such league is the Welsh Premier. There are many football clubs associated with this league ranging from Aberystwyth, Llanelli and Newtown, to Bangor, Caernarfon and Welshpool. All of these teams are entered into the Welsh Premier and compete against each other throughout the season all in the hope of winning and coming top of the table. The way to find out information on the Internet is to log on to www.uefa.com and then look out for the titles reading Welsh football Associations. Regional structure. Although UEFA are a huge organisation, they cannot control every single aspect of the game in all European countries, such as Wales. It is therefore essential that regional, intra-national organisations or governing bodies take as much control as possible and are aware of as much as possible in their area. Wales uses a pyramid system to organise its football events/competitions. The Welsh Premier is Wales national league and the only national competition and all leagues below it operate on a regional basis, the leagues become more localised the further down the pyramid you go. Governing bodies need to structure leagues into regional leagues so that they are more easily managed and are more organised. Like the British Premier League, many foreign countries have adopted segmented or divisional type football leagues. Wales uses this tiered league system to organise many competitions. The Welsh Premier is the top tier or first division and all those below this division are on lower tiers. The second tier consists of two leagues that each covers half of the country. The first represents South Wales and the second, central and North Wales. The champions of both these leagues are promoted to the League of Wales. However although this may sound quite simple, it gets much more complicated the further down the system you go. The similarity is that the teams that come top of the lower leagues are also eligible for promotion. As Ive said, the system gets a lot more mixed up and complex the further down the pyramid you go, with teams having less professional players, and a lower status. The lower less well known teams face a larger competition and less chance of getting promoted due to the larger number of teams. Coaching Awards. It is obvious that if a team succeeds in a particular league and win matches, then, as well as the skill and professionalism of the players being a contributor to their success, the coach of the team must be doing a good job as well. Many organisations present awards to coaches who are seen as successful and who are leading their club well. Without coaches, teams would stand little chance of playing as a team, keeping fit and developing skills, coaches maintain the levels of professionalism whatever the status of the club. Many coaches have to go through training to acquire qualifications in order to coach at the highest level and receive award after doing so. The FA present awards to qualified coaches after they complete training courses at different levels. One such award is the FA Level 1 which is a certificate in coaching football, the course can be taken by anyone over the age of 16 and is an intensive 20 hour course that involves the person dealing with practical coaching, child protection, emergency first aid, over use injuries, child development and growth spurts. Another coaching award is from the NGB or National Governing Body of football. People who have obtained qualifications through their NGB normally go to work shops to further their experience and become better at their job. When someone has obtained qualifications and coaching awards they can pursue a career in coaching their chosen sport and can apply their knowledge acquired through previous courses to coach at various levels. Once in a part time job a coach earn anything from à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½6 to à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½20 an hour and full time jobs can pay from à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½12,000 to à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½20,000 per annum. Promotional/grass root schemes. It is essential for professional and semi-professional teams to be able to pick or select the next best players in order to maintain the reputation of the club and the skill levels required to reach the top of their league. Without grass root schemes young players would not be able to develop their skills or play enough to get recognised by larger clubs. Grass root schemes also make sure that young children are made aware of the benefits of football or any sport and are also taught rules, and the value of teamwork from a very young age. Sports such as football are huge and although the sport does benefit from promotional and grass root schemes, the sport does have a huge following, it is estimated that there are around 70,000 boys playing football for either schools or clubs between the age ranges of under 11 to under 16 and that over 500,000 play between the ages of 9-16. Grass roots football in the United Kingdom is the responsibility of the 43 county football associations that are affiliated with the FA and make sure everything is organised at a local level. Within the individual county associations there are technical directors that oversee the development of football players from their grass roots all the way up to the highest level of the game. There are centres all over the UK that the FA manages and that develop players at grass root levels. Promotional schemes arise all the time around the country and may take the form of celebrity appearances that may boost the turnout of the event and thus the chance of the sport appealing to more young children is increased. The ability to promote a sport such as football depends largely on the willingness of children to participate at grass roots levels and their eagerness to participate at higher levels. Ultimately the children need to have the drive or enthusiasm to take part at low levels of the sport and maintain that ambition so that they will achieve the highest possible level of success in the sport. In Wales, grass roots schemes such as Dragon Sports help to promote football and get more young children involved by using players that can be used as examples of what you can achieve if you persevere. Dragon Sports organise events where the children can turn up and spend the day being taught by professional players and obviously having fun. Regional and national competitions Throughout the country there are various leagues that I talked about previously in my work, these leagues area made up of various teams that compete for promotion to a higher, more competitive league. Regional competitions or matches, are held between more localised teams which compete to win matches in order to gain points and status within their league. If a team win a majority of their games within their own league and against localised opponents, of inter-county matches, they move on to play against the victors from other leagues in various other counties. Ultimately, the teams that are the best in each area of a country will move into a position where they have to play against each other in order to proceed to the next level. After all of the county matches have been played the victorious teams may be promoted into a larger more advanced league that caters for the best regional teams. Theses teams will then play against one another in a national league that offers bigger more prestigious rewards. The teams/clubs at this level are the cream of all the inter-county teams and all compete for national recognition. Doping control and testing. Over the years there have been numerous incidents where athletes have been tested for drugs and were found to have been abusing illegal, performance enhancing narcotics. It is now the norm for most athletes, including footballers, to be tested for doping and drugs that may affect their performance. There are many different ways in which drug testing can be performed, namely, urine samples, hair samples, perspiration and residues found on the athlete or on items of their possession. The urine sample involves the footballer giving a urine sample just before a game, which is tested for the existence of drugs or any evidence of doping. If the results come back positive then the footballer will be suspended and will not be allowed to play in the match or matches following the test until a governing body tells them they are allowed to play. Hair testing involves the footballer/athlete giving a sample of their hair, which, like the urine is tested for evidence of drugs, again, if the test shows that that person has drugs in their system, then appropriate action will be taken. The perspiration test involves the sweat of the athlete being analysed for the presence of any performance enhancing drugs. This is an effective way of doping control and testing, as there are not many ways in which you can avoid this sort of test, or any of the others for that matter. Residue testing involves the footballer giving an item of theirs to the drug analyst that may have residue from the footballers body on it, this could include a drinking flask, mug etc. that may have the persons saliva on it, or a towel that may have hair on it that could be analysed, i.e. anything that may have any residue on it that could be analysed in order to prove the existence of drugs or doping. Here is an example of how the FA intends to deal with the increase in drug abuse in football; The FA is conducting random drug testing of gifted footballers as young as nine years old. These unannounced spot-checks on 9-16 year olds is being carried out at 147 centres of excellence across England and Wales. However, what I find amazing is that each of these drug tests costs the FA à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½230, but I do think that it is necessary as the drug problems with youth football is escalating. Assessment of development and placement on the performance pyramid. There are five levels to the performance pyramid, these are: 1. Grass roots. Here, everyone is encouraged to take part in the sport and anyone can play it. At this level young children are the focal point as trying to get children involved and interested in a sport from a young age is essential if they are to develop into a potential professional player. This is the stage that many governing bodies and organisations are now becoming interested in in-order to develop players of the future. 2. The second stage is recreation. At this stage, players have developed an interest in the sport and are playing quite frequently. This is also the stage where the player will have developed their interest enough to join a club or team. 3. The third stage is sport. This stage involves the person playing at higher levels and their standards have risen to such a point that means that they have become competitive and driven to win. They will also be playing in some sort of league with aspirations of success. 4. If a football player reaches this level they have entered a stage of excellence. The player probably would have been selected for their talent as a player and will be provided with support so that they can train without much hassle etc. They would be sent to train at a centre of excellence where they will receive professional help from qualified coaches in order to play to the best of their ability. Furthermore, the player will probably be playing at county level with the best players in the area who were also selected for their talent. 5. The final level or stage is elitism. At this stage the player is playing at the highest level and has a desire for winning. Moreover, the chances are that the player is at a professional level and is getting paid to play for a particular team. This is the highest of levels that you can reach in any particular sport. Considering all of the stages I would place myself at stage three, sport. I play football at a competitive level and at quite a high standard. I would say that my interest for the sport has developed into one that I can play football at a level where I feel that winning is important but losing is an inevitable factor. With this in mind I can say that there is little chance of moving to the excellence stage and therefore the elitist stage, as I do have other interests and I do not see football as the only sport that I can play. I believe that I am at this level because I have been playing football since I was seven, and I have developed a love for the sport and can appreciate the effort that is put into playing for such a long period of time. Discussion of the effects on my progress. There are many ways in which I have been helped through my time playing football, there are also many ways in which without extra help, I would not have been able to progress. Without a football organisation such as the FA, there would be little order or organisation in the development of football, such as football clubs at grass root levels. I can also say that the funding that these organisations distribute to various clubs is essential for their survival and maintenance of most equipment and grounds etc. At grass roots level, there is emphasis placed on playing for the enjoyment of the sport, which puts little pressure on players. This way of thinking allows players of the future to develop a love of the sport and thus will tend, like myself, to carry on playing football into their teens and beyond, some will eventually develop their natural abilities to such an extent that they can play football professionally and at an elite level where they can live from the money they are paid by their team/club. From a young age I learnt to play by the rules from grass roots football during matches, I learnt how to control myself in various situations and developed a lot of skills. All of this would have been extremely difficult, if not impossible to do, without the help of governing bodies and organisations such as the FA and FIFA distributing funds and carrying out administrative procedures that ensured players, such as myself, the opportunity to play in a controlled manner in supervised games etc. During my time playing football at club level and at grass roots, I had to pay subscriptions, or subs that would be paid into the FA who would recycle the money and put it back into the various football clubs in the country. This money is used by the FA to fund training camps and centres of excellence throughout the country in order to develop the players of future teams and representatives of our country. Furthermore, without these governing bodies and organisations, lower level clubs, like those at grass root levels, would not be able to support themselves as well as with the assistance of such bodies. The transition from level to level throughout the life of a footballer relies not only on the willingness to pursue the sport, but on the dedication of the governing bodies and organisations to help young players and athletes move on with the most support that they need.

PSA Composite Fibers and Membranes

PSA Composite Fibers and Membranes Polysulfonamide/nano titanium dioxide (PSA/nano-TiO2) composite spinning solutions with various nano-TiO2  mass fractions were prepared using the solution blending method. The corresponding composite fibers were developed by wet-spinning technology and the composite membranes were prepared using the digital spin-coating technique. The properties of PSA/nano-TiO2 composite fibers and membranes were investigated by scanning electron  microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, etc. The effects of nano-TiO2 and its  mass fractions on the mechanical properties, thermal stability and ultraviolet resistance of PSA composites were  also analyzed. The experimental results showed that nano-TiO2 with low mass fractions can be dispersed evenly  in the PSA matrix; the blending of nano-TiO2 had no obvious influence on the molecular structure and the chemical composition of PSA fiber; the crystallization in PSA fiber was promoted at low nanoparticles mass f ractions  because it can act as a nucleation agent; the mechanical properties and the thermal stability of PSA/nano-TiO2  composites can be enhanced obviously by blending nano-TiO2 into PSA matrix. The ultraviolet resistance of PSA  composites can be improved significantly with the increasing nano-TiO2 mass fractions and the 7 wt.% specimen  showed the lowest UV transmittance. Polysulfonamide (PSA) fiber is a new kind of hightemperature resistant material and it has outstanding  heat resistance, flame retardancy, and thermal stability,  therefore, it can be used to develop protective products used in aerospace, high-temperature environments  and civil fields with the flame retardant requirements  (Ren, Wang, Zhang, 2007; Wang, 2009). However,  raw PSA generally demonstrates poor ultraviolet resistance and the amide groups in polymer molecular  chains are prone to break down under the ultraviolet  radiation; besides, the breaking tenacity of PSA fibers  is low; these properties lead to some difficulties in its  manufacturing procedures and limit its application in  developing functional textiles. Therefore, it is a challenging work to improve the mechanical properties  and ultraviolet resistance of PSA. It has been proved that nano-TiO2 is one of the  ideal nano-enhanced materials and it has attracted great  scientific attention because of its excellent mechanical  properties in significantly improved properties of composites (Ali, Shadi, Shirin, Seyedeh, Khademno,  2010; Han Yu, 2005). Moreover, nano-TiO2 is good  semiconductor oxides and it has excellent ultraviolet  scattering and absorption (Popov, Priezzhev, Lademann, Myllylà ¤, 2005). It is feasible to blend nanoTiO2 into PSA matrix to improve the mechanical properties and ultraviolet resistance of PSA composites. Experimental Materials The PSA polymer was used as spinning solution with  intrinsic viscosity of 2.0–2.5 dL/g and relative molecular  mass of 462. The rutile titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2)  was blended as functional particles with a diameter ranging from 30 to 50 nm and the rutile content of nano-TiO2  was about 99%. The dimethylacetamide (DMAC) was  selected as dissolvent in this study. The above materials  were provided by Shanghai Tanlon Fiber Co. Ltd. All the  chemicals used here were of reagent grade and they were  used without further purification. Preparation of PSA/nano-TiO2 composites A certain amount of nano-TiO2 was predispersed in  DMAC using ultrasonic vibration for 30min; and thenadded into the PSA solution. The PSA/nano-TiO2  composite spinning solutions with various mass fractions of nanoparticles was prepared after mechanical stirring for 1 h and ultrasonic vibration for 2 h. The  experimental data are shown in Table 1. The pure PSA fibers and PSA/nano-TiO2 composite fibers were developed by a small-scale and singlescrew wet spinning apparatus. Besides, the pure PSA  membrane and PSA/nano-TiO2 composite membranes  were prepared using the SJT-B digital spin-coating  instrument. The preparation procedures of nanofibers  and membranes can be referred to the previous studies  (Chen, Xin, Wu, Wang, Du, in press; Xin, Chen,  Wu, Wang, in press). Test methods The dispersion of nanoparticles in PSA composites  S-3400N scanning electron microscope (SEM) with a  resolution of 4 nm was used to characterize the dispersion of nano-TiO2 in PSA matrix. The machine was  operated at 5 kV. FTIR spectroscopy Thermo Nicolet AVATAR 370 Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to characterize the  molecular structure and chemical composition of  fibers; each spectrum was collected by cumulating 32  scans at a resolution of 4 cm_1 X-ray diffraction X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements of the crystalline structure of fibers were recorded on k780  FirmV_06 X-ray diffraction using the CuKÃŽ ± radiation  (ÃŽ » = 0.15406 nm). The spectra were obtained at 2h  angles range of 5o –60o with a scanning speed of 0.8 s/ step. Mechanical properties test YG006 electronic single fiber strength tester was used  to investigate the mechanical properties of fibers. The  sample gage length was 10mm. The elongation speed  was set at 20mm/min. The measurements for each  sample were carried out 10 times and the average wasThe thermal stability test  The thermal stability of fibers was measured by Germany STA PT-1000 Thermal Gravimetric Analyzer  (Linseis Inc., New Jersey, USA); the experiment was  conducted under nitrogen atmosphere with a gas flow  of 80–100ml/min; the samples were heated up to  700 °C from the room temperature at a heating rate of  20 °C/min. Ultraviolet resistance test Labsphere UV-1000F Ultraviolet Transmittance Analyzer (Labsphere, Inc., North Sutton, NH, USA) was  used to test the UV transmittance of membranes. The  instrument parameters were described as below: the  absorbance was 0–2.5A; scanning time was about 5 s;  data interval was 1 nm and the diameter of beam was  10mm. The measurements for each sample were carried out for 10 times and the average was used for the  result discussion. Results and discussion The distribution of nano-TiO2 in PSA composites As demonstrated in Figure 1, 1 wt.% of nano-TiO2 can  be dispersed evenly throughout the PSA matrix and the  size of nanoparticles is about 50–60 nm; with the nanoTiO2 mass fraction increased to 3 wt.%, a little aggregation can be observed; when the mass fraction of nanoTiO2 increased to 5 or 7 wt.%, its dispersion in PSA  becomes inhomogeneous because of their large specific  surface and high surface polarity, and the aggregation  size is about 100–300 nm. It is difficult for nano-TiO2  with high mass fractions to distribute uniformly in the  PSA blending system. FTIR analysis of PSA/nano-TiO2 composite fibers   As shown in Figure 2, the position and shape of characteristic peaks of PSA composites blending with nanoTiO2 did not change obviously compared with the pristine PSA. The characteristic peaks of PSA composites  exhibiting at about 3338.99 cm_1  can be attributed to the amide N–H stretching vibration and the peaks are  flattened slightly with the mass fractions of nano-TiO2  increased from 1 to 7 wt.%. It ascribes to the quantum  size effect of nanoparticles (Zhang Mou, 2001). In  conclusion, it shows no significant changes to the  molecular structure and chemical composition of PSA  fibers with the addition of nano-TiO2. XRD analysis of PSA/nano-TiO2 composite fibers  As depicted in Figure 3, the PSA composite fibers have  diffraction peaks at 27.54 °, 36.15 °, 41.35 °, and 54.40 °,  this is because of the blending of nano-TiO2 (Chen,  Liu, Zhang, Zhang, Jin, 2003; Xia Wang, 2002). In addition, all the specimens have diffraction peaks at  about 11.85 ° and 21.25 °. The sharp diffraction peaks  corresponding to 11.85o  indicate that there are crystalline structures in PSA/nano-TiO2 composite fibers  (Yang, 2008). Besides, the sharpness of the diffraction  peaks at about 11.85 ° of composites enhances gradually with the nano-TiO2 mass fractions increased from  1 to 5 wt.%. It suggests that the crystallization in PSA  can be improved with the blending of nano-TiO2,  because it can act as a nucleation agent. Moreover, the  shape of diffraction peaks exhibiting at 21.25 ° of PSA  composites broadens significantly with the increasing  nano-TiO2 mass fractions and it proves that the size of  crystal region becomes smaller (Meng, Hu, Zhu,  2007). The mechanical properties of PSA/nano-TiO2 composite fibers As illustrated in Table 2, the breaking tenacity of PSA  composite fiber with 1 wt.% nano-TiO2 improved  obviously; however, the improving degree of breaking  tenacity begins to decrease with the continuous  increase in mass fractions of nano-TiO2 and the value  of the 7 wt.% sample is lower than the pure PSA. This is because nano-TiO2 is an ideal nano-enhancedmaterial; the blending of it into PSA can improve the  mechanical properties of composites to some extent. Moreover, nano-TiO2 with low mass fractions can be  distributed evenly in PSA matrix and it can form a  good interface with PSA molecular chains. As can be seen in Table 2, the composite fibers have  low elongation at break which is lower than the raw  PSA; simultaneously, the initial modulus of composites  increased significantly, however, the improvement  begins to decrease with the mass fractions of nano-TiO2  increased from 1 to 5 wt.% and the 7 wt.% sample has  the minimum value of the initial modulus. It suggests  that the blending of nano-TiO2 with low mass fractions  can improve the mechanical properties of PSA composite fibers to a certain extent. The thermal stability of PSA/nano-TiO2 composite  fibers TG curves and derivative thermogravimetric analysis  (DTG) curves of PSA/nano-TiO2 composite fibers are  demonstrated in Figures 4 and 5, respectively. The  main parameters of the curves are presented in Table 3. In Figure 4, the thermal decomposition behaviors of  specimens are divided into three regions. The first region is a stage of small mass loss ranging from room temperature to 400 °C. As depicted in  Figure 4, each TG curve has a sharp decrease in the  beginning and then reaches a platform with the temperature heating up to 350 °C. However, the mass loss  of PSA composites blending with nano-TiO2 is always  lower than the pure PSA during this process. As  shown in Table 3, the T10wt of each PSA composite is  high, whereas the mass loss of pure PSA reached 10%  at 170.19 °C. This suggests that it is hard for the PSA  composites to decompose and the thermal stability is  significantly higher than PSA. The second region is a stage of thermal decomposition process ranging from 400 to 600 °C. According  to the analysis of bond energy (Zhang, Cheng, Zhao, 2000), the C–N section of amide in PSA macromolecular chains decomposes at 500–600 °C (Broadbelt, Chu, Klein, 1994a, 1994b) and the mass loss  of PSA at this stage is attributed to the gases released  such as SO2,NH3, and CO2. In addition, as illustrated  in Table 3, the To of PSA composites blending with 1  and 3 wt.% nano-TiO2 can be increased; therefore, its  thermal stability can be improved correspondingly.   As exhibited in Figure 4, the mass loss of specimens accelerates steadily with the increasing temperature and each TG curve presents a rapid  decomposition at about 500 °C. Corresponding to the  rapid decomposition, there is a peak in DTG curve  shown in Figure 5 and the Tmax can be determinedaccording to the value of the maximum peak (Yang,  2008). The third region is a high-temperature phase of  carbon formation ranging from 600 to 700 °C. As  demonstrated in Figure 4, the PSA composites still  show a slight decomposition during this stage;  besides, the mass loss of pure PSA decreases obviously. As illustrated in Table 3, the residual mass of  composites at the terminal temperature is higher than  the pure PSA. Therefore, it is concluded that the thermal stability  of PSA composites blending with nano-TiO2 can be  improved significantly. The ultraviolet resistance As exhibited in Figure 6, the ultraviolet transmittance of specimens ranging from 390 to 400 nm  decreases gradually with the increase in mass fractions of nano-TiO2. This suggests that the nanoTiO2 can improve the ultraviolet resistance of PSA  composites significantly. This is because the refraction index (RI) of nano-TiO2 is extremely high  (2.73) and it has excellent ultraviolet scattering  properties (Liu, Tang, Zhang, Sun, 2007). In  addition, electrons in nano-TiO2 are transited from  the valence band to the conduction band under the  ultraviolet radiation; therefore, the nano-TiO2 has  outstanding ultraviolet absorption properties. Conclusions The PSA composite fibers and membranes with different mass fractions of nano-TiO2 were developed. The experimental results can be summarized as follows: (1) The nano-TiO2 with low mass fractions (1 or 3  wt.%) can be distributed evenly in the PSA  blending system; however, it is difficult for  nano-TiO2 with high mass fractions (5 or 7 wt.  %) to disperse homogeneously throughout the  PSA matrix. (2) The blending of nano-TiO2 showed no obvious  changes to the molecular structure and chemical  composition of PSA composite fibers. (3) The crystallization of PSA composite fibers can  be improved by blending with low mass fractions of nano-TiO2, because it can act as a  nucleation agent. (4) The breaking tenacity and initial modulus of 4 5 ance % (a) (b) (c) PSA composite fibers can be improved obviously by blending with low mass fractions of  nano-TiO2; whereas the elongation at break  of PSA composite was decreased with the  particles mass fractions increased from 1 to 7  wt.%. (5) The thermal stability of PSA composites can be  increased significantly and the nano-TiO2 has  some influences on the To, T10wt, and Tmax of  PSA composites compared with the pure PSA. (6) The blending of nano-TiO2 can improve the  ultraviolet resistance of PSA composites signifi-  cantly and the 7 wt.% specimen had the lowest  UV transmittance.

Ellen Foster :: Free Essays

Kaye Gibbons, the author of the novel Ellen Foster, believes that a quote from the Emerson’s â€Å"Self Reliance† is connected with Ellen’s struggle to survive and find her way in the world. The first line of this quote says, â€Å"Cast the bantling on the rocks† is related to Ellen herself. A bantling is an abandoned child. Ellen is a bantling even though she was not abandoned, she was deprived of a normal childhood. Her life as a child was extremely hard, physically and emotionally. She never had a mother or father take care of her through her entire youth. You could say that her childhood was â€Å"cast on the rocks†. The last line reads, â€Å"Power and speed be hands and feet†. This reminds me of how Ellen ran from her problems at home and stayed away from her house as much as possible. The line also represents strength and Ellen was a strong person. She dealt with losing a mother, father and grandmother within one year. She never even h ad a good relationship with her father or grandmother. The short inscription to â€Å"Self Reliance† is almost a short summary of Ellen’s character. In it, a child without parents is raised by someone that is a lot different than she is. After Ellen’s mother died, she is unwillingly left with her alcoholic father who mistreats her. Ellen spent a lot of time at her friend, Starletta’s house and at the house of her grandmother. Life with her grandmother was no better than life with her father. She did not want to be in either situation. After living with her grandmother, Ellen’s struggle to find a suitable, comforting home comes to an end. For the second time in her life, a family member has died right next to her, basically in her arms. Ellen is able to overcome this, even as a

Member of the Wedding

The Member of The Wedding, Carson McCullers Main Characters: Frankie Addams is a twelve year old who in the middle of a sexual and emotional awakening. She feels totally isolated and disconnected from the world all around her. She isn't a member of any clique or group, because of this she becomes obsessed with the fact that she is going to be a member of her brother Jarvis' wedding. Frankie puts all her hopes in dreams into this one event and plans to make. Connection with another group of people, and to disconnect herself from being lonely again.Getting away from childhood is a hard task for her and she has trouble with it, she tries to make changes on the outside to get a better impression but that is a fail. Her biggest struggle is getting over something's that relate to being a female adult like getting her menstruation cycle and sex, Frankie is extremely ignorant when it comes to these two subjects. My first impression of Frankie is that someone needs to teach her how to grow u p. Setting: Frankie Addams is a 12 year old living in the American south in 1944. Summary: Frankie Addams is a young 12 year old living in the American South, the book is about her main frustration with feeling like she doesn't belong as a member in any group and that she's disconnected from the world all around her. She is the daughter of a jeweler and a mom who died during child birth. She spends most of her time being obsessed with her brothers wedding. Frankie tries to find unity with other people and this causes major conflict in the story. When Frankie tries to grow up and become apart of the adult world she notices that there is some stuff she doesn't like about the adult world.One major thing she didn't like is that married couples only include two people which makes her not apart of her dream of being a threesome with Jarvis and Janice. Bernice helped Frankie understand what she needed to know about the adult world and some of the struggles of being an adult. My favorite p assage was â€Å"Bernice tells of a couple she knows in which a woman fell in love with a man who later had a sex change. † that was my favorite because it was so funny. My first impression was to laugh. Conclusion: I liked the ending of the story because it kind of gave some insight on how Frankie matured a little, I wouldn't change the end.

The Multi-dimensions of Art & Milk

The concept of art has been an ever changing forefront of movements, development, evolution and a pending example of how the human race has delved into different realms of expression and exploration into their surrounding environment.   There are varying theories as to the worth of art, pop art in particular and its legacy to the human race; or, all art in general may be examined through critical eyes and have the same question presented in such scrutiny.   The purpose of this paper will be to examine the worth of The Milkproject and how it aids in examining people and products in their everyday life.There has been much debate as to the purpose of; in Oscar Wilde’s famous quote he says, â€Å"All art is completely useless† and while this may be the case in fact, since art does not serve some rudimentary purpose in propelling the human race forward into any evolutionary or revolutionary states, art must be approached from a different angle.   The theorists Dick Hig gins states that,Pop Art?   How could it play a part in the art of the future?   It is bland.   It is pure.   It uses elements of common life without comment, and so, by accepting the misery of this life and its aridity   so mutely, it condones them.   Pop and op are both dead, however, because they confine themselves, through the media which they employ, to the older functions of art, of decorating and suggesting grandeur, whatever the detailed content of their artist’s suggestions (Higgins 49).Thus, with this definition of the death of art through the lack of evolution it is willing to play in progressing forward into a new age of media a viewer may rightly surmise that the endeavors of the Milkproject are far more revolutionary than any other artistic movement being designed in this century.   It is with the inclusion of technology and the approach of applying the common life with something integral to the world such as milk and how and where it travels that this project will have a lasting impression in the art world.It is through diversity of art and the inclusion of different medias into a conglomeration art project that the Milkproject is able to transcend the usual boundaries of art and to delve into something more important, more human.   The project used photographs, sound recordings and live models and life to portray the transportation of milk from a farm into the houses of the general populace.   The integration involved in this journey is what beckons Higgins to recollect the diversity of Duchamp in his theory and to state that it is only through this mixture and inclusion of media that art is able to evolve, and evolve it does with the Milkproject.The true genius of the Milkproject is that is it interactive; with the audience as well as the participants.   The beauty of the project is that is focuses on something common in everyone’s lives so that everyone has a basis for an interest in the project.   As this paper has previously quoted art seems useless:   from the dowdy baroque pieces to the overly large pop art media pieces, there seems to be no real connection between the lay person and art.With the Milkproject this foreignness is bypassed as milk is the main ingredient in the art, and the reactions of people to milk, its journey and process is all a part of the final project.   In Kaprow’s article â€Å"Happenings† in the New York Scene he describes how ‘Happenings’ is an interactive based art experience, â€Å"You come in as a spectator and maybe you discover you’re caught in it after all as you push things around like so much furniture† (Kaprow 84).   This same process of being involved in the Milkproject despite not being the artist of the muse, is what propels the fundamental interest of the viewer.The idea behind the Milkproject as an artistic expression is only defined as such by the intermingled use of photography and voice.   This is why the project is such an important piece; because in most art pieces, the movement is static, the flowers remain the same through time, but with the human voice and the interaction of the product with the audience, the viewer or participant is able to relate on a more humanistic level with the project and thus transform it from a Happening into a thing of real life consequence: from the farm and whatever happens with the farm (financially, weather-wise, etc) to the mouth of the consumer.   Thus, the Milkproject transcends Kaprow’s Happening as he defines it,Happenings are events that, put simply, happen.   Though the best of them have a decided impact—that is, we feel, ‘here is something important’—they appear to go nowhere and do not make any particular literary point.   In contrast to the arts of the past, they have no structured beginning, middle or end.   Their form is open-ended and fluid; nothing obvious is sought and therefo re nothing is won, except the certainty of a number of occurrences to which we are more than normally attentive.   They exist for a single performance, or only a few, and are gone forever as new ones take their place. (Kaprow 85).Thus, the Milkproject is not so clearly defined as art that has no ‘structured beginning, middle or end’ (Kaprow 85) but rather to the extent of the milk’s journey from teet to mouth of the consumer is found these three parts; excepting in the idea that the project itself is a continuation of the milk’s journey transform by the project into art.It is now clear that the Milkproject is a transformable art.   Thus, the art behind the project is not limited to the process of the milk traveling but extends to the reactions of the farmers and the consumer as is proven with the voice recorded tapes.   The audience in turn at the exhibition becomes part of this process as well, which makes the integrated media of the Milkproject evo lutionary in its concept.   This concept of mixed media and the extension of art into the audience is portrayed in Aarseth’s theory on literature,Where this new adaptation might prove to be a radical departure is in the way we shall use it to define textually independent of its traditional associates, the reader/receiver/audience and writer/sender/author.   This move, which might be seen as self-defense†¦A text is not what we may read out of it, nor is it identical with what someone once wrote into it.   It is something more, a potential that can be realized only partially and only through its script (Aarseth 59).One must merely substitute the word literature and text with art and this passage clearly defines the purpose and impact of the Milkproject.Another interesting dynamic to the Milkproject is its use of the narrative.   As was mentioned with Higgins, art does not transcend itself often; that is to say that art does not cross from a painting into a sculptur e, and that is why media is such an important tool for this new era of art.   Most art does not speak for itself, does not lend the viewer with a cemented impression or underlying theory to its own existence as was illustrated in Kabrow’s Happenings.   With the inclusion of a running narrative in the Milkproject, a new dimension of art is being presented and very well incorporated into the integrity of the project.The inclusion of a narrative is not the only aspect of the genius of the Milkproject but the way in which it is included is what makes the narrative a work of art.   The narrative is typically thought of as a story telling device through literature.   In the dynamic of the Milkproject the narrative becomes a palpable part of the exhibition in that it is presented not through written words but electronic devices and thus remaking the project a part of a long lasting tradition of oral story telling, something the native Americans of other cultures pass on stor ies from generation to generation (de Certeau 95).   It is with this oral tradition being included in the project that a sense of human identity and connectedness from the Netherlands to America and further can be appreciated, as Landow expresses of the narrative and technology,Electronic textuality brings with it many changes, but not all concern loss, as so many critics of culture seem to believe.   Lyotard, for instance, claims that the new information technologies produce effects much like the journalist’s rewriting†¦but the evidence of hypertext works thus far created, both instructional and literary, suggests that on the contrary electronic linking graphs idiosyncrasy and personal association in particularly liberating ways.He grounds his charge on the doubtful claim which hypertext linking would seem to contradict, that the â€Å"new technologies †¦submit to exact calculation every inscription on whatever support:   visual and sound images, speech, mus ical lines, and finally writing itself,† and he argues that â€Å"the noteworthy result of this is not, as Baudrillard thinks, the constitution of an immense network of simulacra† but rather the great â€Å"importance assumed by the concept of the bit, the unit of information† (Landow 32).The importance then of the inclusion of the narrative through a technological device then is proven to be a necessary part in the Milkproject not only in a traditional art sense but in a cultural sense as it propels the human story forward by the means of the human ingenuity:   through the bit, through oral tradition by way of a story that is significant to the human race, and its progeny:   a farmer’s milk into the mouths of the consumer, is something that will always be of importance because of its nutrition as well as this project’s ability to show that the world, the economy, cultures, are working in a globalizing fashion to sustain human life in all parts of the earth, thus art imitates nature (Guattari & Deleuze 2).The Milkproject extends the visual world and enters the verbal world so that the audience may better understand the significance of the work.   The emphasis of the verbal, or oral storytelling in this project is what makes the project all that much more human.   The implementation of the digital voice recordings along side the still motion shots taken from video footage is what humanizes the project and for the audience its what makes the project real, and strikes a cord of commonality, thus, not only is the audience member intrigued because of the element of milk, a product used by a large portion of the world’s population but also the voiced concerns of the farmers and consumers are juxtaposed with the audience reactions as de Certeau states ,We could moreover extend this problematic to the relations between the act of writing and the written text, and even transpose it to the relationships between the Ã¢â‚¬Ë œhand’ and the finished painting.   AT first isolated in the area of verbal communication, the speech act turns out to find only one of its applications there, and its linguistic modality is merely the first determination of a much more general distinction between the forms used in a system and the ways of using this system, that is, between two ‘different worlds,’ since the ‘same things’ are considered from two opposite formal viewpoints (de Certeau 98).Thus, the use of the narrative becomes a part of the exhibition in an intrinsic fashion.The focus of this paper has been on the inclusion of several styles of art in one artistic piece, the Milkproject.   Through the use of verbal narrative, mixed media, photographs, technology, and video the ‘artists’ of this project have been able to create a Happening which goes beyond the open-ended suggestion of Kabrow and into a story which develops through the journey of milk from udder to con sumer across continents.The use of GPS in this project was also a major player in extending the static components of art being non-transcendental (i.e. paintings can’t be sculptures and vice versa) and allows the project to be multi-dimensional and thus long lasting.   However, the stroke of genius in the Milkproject is the inclusion of various media in order to engage the audience in the reality of the milk’s journey.It is with this final statement of the project that the purpose of the project becomes apparent:   the audience’s interaction, and reaction to the project is a part of the project if not the main purpose.   Thus, the journey of the milk does not end with the consumer but carries on into the audience and this is what allows the Milkproject to not be a stagnant art form but an interactive exhibition whose genius rests with the reality that the journey’s participation hinges upon the viewer.   Thus, the journey of milk is found in its e nd with the art viewer.Work CitedAarseth, E. â€Å"Nonlinearity and Literary Theory.† Hyper/Text/Theory Landow,  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   George P. (Ed)   Baltimore & London: John Hopkins University Press, 1994  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   excerpts 51-86Burroughs, W. The Cut-Up Method of Brion Gysin. The New Media Reader Nick  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Monfort and Noah Wardrip-Fruin (Eds) Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press 2003 83 88.De Certeau, M.   Walking in the City.   The Practice of Everyday Life.   Berkley.   UniversityOf California Press.   1988.Deleuze, G. and Guattari, F. Rhizome. in A Thousand Plateaus Minneapolis and  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   London: Minnesota UP, 1987 excerpts 2-25;Higgins, Dick. Intermedia. Leonardo 34:1 49-54Kaprow, Allan. Happenings’ in the New York Scene.The New Media Reader Monfort,  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Nick & Wardrip-Fruin, Noah (Eds) Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press, 203 83-88Landow, G. P. What ’s A Critic to Do? Hypertext. George P. Landow (Ed) Baltimore:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   John Hopkins UP, 1994 32-46Marek, K.   Bizarre New World. (The World May Be) Fantastic, Biennale of Sydney  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Catalogue 2002 217-20.Plant, S. On the Matrix. Cybercultures Reader London & New York: Routledge, 2000   325-336

A Guide on How to Use Adverbial Clauses of Time

A Guide on How to Use Adverbial Clauses of Time Adverb clauses provide additional information about how something is done. They are much like adverbs in that they tell the reader when, why or how someone did something. All clauses contain a subject and a verb, adverb clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions. For example, Tom helped the student with the homework because he didnt understand the exercise. ... because he didnt understand the exercise explains why Tom helped and is an adverb clause. Begin by studying adverb clauses which are often called time clauses in English grammar books and follow specific patterns.   Punctuation When an adverb clause begins the sentence, use a comma to separate the two clauses. Example: As soon as he arrives, we will have some lunch. When the adverb clause finishes the sentence, there is no need for a comma. Example: He gave me a call when he arrived in town. Adverb Clauses with Time When: He was talking on the phone when I arrived.When she called, he had already eaten lunch.I washed the dishes when my daughter fell asleep.Well go to lunch when you come to visit. When means at that moment, at that time, etc.. Notice the different tenses used in relation to the clause beginning with when. It is important to remember that when takes either the simple past OR the present - the dependent clause changes tense in relation to the when clause. Before: We will finish before he arrives.She (had) left before I telephoned. Before means before that moment. It is important to remember that before takes either the simple past OR the present. After: We will finish after he comes.She ate after I (had) left. After means after that moment. It is important to remember that after takes the present for future events and the past OR past perfect for past events. While, as: She began cooking while I was finishing my homework.As I was finishing my homework, she began cooking. While and as are both usually used with the past continuous because the meaning of during that time  indicates an action in progress. By the time: By the time he finished, I had cooked dinner.We will have finished our homework by the time they arrive. By the time expresses the idea that one event has been completed before another. It is important to notice the use of the past perfect for past events and future perfect for future events in the main clause. This is because of the idea of something happening up to another point in time. Until, till: We waited until he finished his homework.Ill wait until you finish. Until and till express up to that time. We use either the simple present or simple past with until and till. Till is usually only used in spoken English. Since: I have played tennis since I was a young boy.They have worked here since 1987. Since means from that time. We use the present perfect (continuous) with since. Since can also be used with a specific point in time. As soon as: He will let us know as soon as he decides (or as soon as he has decided).As soon as I hear from Tom, I will give you a telephone call. As soon as means when something happens - immediately afterward. As soon as is very similar to when it emphasizes that the event will occur immediately after the other. We usually use the simple present for future events, although present perfect can also be used. Whenever, every time: Whenever he comes, we go to have lunch at Dicks.We take a hike every time he visits. Whenever and every time mean each time something happens. We use the simple present (or the simple past in the past) because whenever and every time express habitual action. The first, second, third, fourth, etc., next, last time: The first time I went to New York, I was intimidated by the city.I saw Jack the last time I went to San Francisco.The second time I played tennis, I began to have fun. The first, second, third, fourth, etc., next, last time means that specific time. We can use these forms to be more specific about which time of a number of times something happened. Adverb  Clauses Showing Opposition These type of clauses show an unexpected or non-self-evident result based on the dependent clause. Example:  He bought the car even though it was expensive. Take a look at the chart below to study the various usages of adverb clauses showing opposition. Punctuation: When an adverb clause begins the sentence use a comma to separate the two clauses. Example:  Even though it was expensive, he bought the car. When the adverb clause finishes the sentence there is no need for a comma. Example:  He bought the car even though it was expensive. Even though, though, although: Even though it was expensive, he bought the car.Though he loves doughnuts, he has given them up for his diet.Although the course was difficult, he passed with the highest marks. Notice how though, even though or although show a situation which is contrary to the main clause to express opposition. Even though, though and although are all synonyms. Whereas, while: Whereas you have lots of time to do your homework, I have very little time indeed.Mary is rich, while I am poor. Whereas and while show clauses in direct opposition to each other. Notice that you should always use a comma with whereas and while. Using Adverb Clauses to Express Conditions These type of clauses are often called if clauses in English grammar books and follow conditional  sentence patterns. Take a look at the chart below to study the various usage of different time expressions. Punctuation: When an adverb clause begins the sentence use a comma to separate the two clauses. Example:  If he comes, we will have some lunch.. When the adverb clause finishes the sentence there is no need for a comma. Example:  He would have invited me if he had known. If: If we win, well go to Kellys to celebrate!She would buy a house, if she had enough money. If clauses express the conditions necessary for the result. If clauses are followed by expected results based on the condition. Even if: Even if she saves a lot, she wont be able to afford that house. In contrast to sentences with if sentences with even if show a result that is unexpected based on the condition in the even if clause.  Example:  COMPARE: If she studies hard, she will pass the exam AND Even if she studies hard, she wont pass the exam. Whether or not: They wont be able to come whether or not they have enough money.Whether they have money or not, they wont be able to come. Whether or not expresses the idea that neither one condition or another matters; the result will be the same. Notice the possibility of inversion (Whether they have money or not) with whether or not. Unless: Unless she hurries up, we wont arrive in time.We wont go unless he arrives soon. Unless expresses the idea of if not  Example:  Unless she hurries up, we wont arrive in time. MEANS THE SAME AS: If she doesnt hurry up, we wont arrive in time.  Unless is only used in the first conditional. In case (that), in the event (that): In the case you need me, Ill be at Toms.Ill be studying upstairs in the event he calls. In case and in the event usually mean that you dont expect something to happen, but if it does... Both are used primarily for future events. Only if: Well give you your bicycle only if you do well on your exams.Only if you do well on your exams will we give you your bicycle. Only if means only in the case that something happens - and only if. This form basically means the same as if. However, it does stress the condition for the result. Note that when only if begins the sentence you need to invert the main clause. Adverb Clauses with Expressions of Cause and Effect These type of clauses explain the reasons for what happens in the main clause.  Example:  He bought a new home because he got a better job. Take a look at the chart below to study the various usages of different expressions of cause and effect. Note that all of these expressions are synonyms of because. Punctuation: When an adverb clause begins the sentence use a comma to separate the two clauses.  Example:  Because he had to work late, we had dinner after nine oclock.. When the adverb clause finishes the sentence there is no need for a comma.  Example:  We had dinner after nine oclock because he had to work late. Adverb Clauses of Cause and Effect Because: They received a high mark on their exam because they had studied hard.Im studying hard because I want to pass my exam.He works a lot of overtime because his rent is so expensive Notice how because can be used with a variety of tenses based on the time relationship between the two clauses. Since: Since he loves music so much, he decided to go to a conservatory.They had to leave early since their train left at 8.30. Since means the same as because. Since tends to be used in more informal spoken English.  Important note:  Since when used as a conjunction is typically used to refer to a period of time, while because implies a cause or reason. As long as: As long as you have the time, why dont you come for dinner? As long as means the same as because. As long as tends to be used in more informal spoken English. As: As the test is difficult, you had better get some sleep. As means the same as because. As tends to be used in more formal, written English. Inasmuch as: Inasmuch as the students had successfully completed their exams, their parents rewarded their efforts by giving them a trip to Paris. Inasmuch as means the same as because. Inasmuch as is used in very formal, written English. Due to the fact that: We will be staying for an extra week due to the fact that we have  not yet finished. Due to the fact that means the same as because. Due to the fact that is generally used in very formal, written English.

The Life and Accomplishments of Marcus Aurelius

The Life and Accomplishments of Marcus Aurelius Marcus Aurelius (r. A.D. 161-180) was a Stoic philosopher and one of the five good Roman emperors (r. A.D. 161-180). He was born on April 26, A.D. 121, according to DIR Marcus Aurelius, or perhaps April 6 or 21. He died on March 17, 180. His Stoic philosophical writings are known as the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, which were written in Greek. He was succeeded by his son the infamous Roman emperor Commodus. It was during the reign of Marcus Aurelius that the Marcomannic War broke out at the northern frontier of the empire. It was also the time of the important physician Galen who wrote about a particularly virulent pandemic that was given Marcus Aurelius family name. Quick Facts Name at birth: Marcus Annius VerusName as emperor: Caesar Marcus Aurelius Antoninus AugustusDates: April 26, 121 - March 17, 180Parents: Annius Verus and Domitia Lucilla;Adoptive father: (Emperor) Antoninus PiusWife: Faustina, daughter of Hadrian; 13 children, including Commodus Family History and Background Marcus Aurelius, originally Marcus Annius Verus, was the son of the Spanish Annius Verus, who had received patrician rank from Emperor Vespasian, and Domitia Calvilla or Lucilla. Marcus father died when he was three months old, at which time his grandfather adopted him. Later, Titus Antoninus Pius adopted Marcus Aurelius at the age of 17 or 18 as part of an agreement he had made with Emperor Hadrian promoting Antoninus Pius to the status of heir. Career The Augustan History says that it was when Marcus was adopted as heir that he was first called Aurelius instead of Annius. Antoninus Pius made Marcus consul and caesar in A.D. 139. In 145, Aurelius married his sister by adoption, Faustina, daughter of Pius. After they had a daughter, he was granted tribunician power and imperium outside Rome. When Antoninus Pius died in 161, the Senate awarded the imperial power to Marcus Aurelius; however, Marcus Aurelius gave joint power to his brother (by adoption) and called him Lucius Aurelius Verus Commodus. The two co-ruling brothers are referred to as Antonines as in the Antonine plague of 165–180. Marcus Aurelius ruled from A.D. 161-180. Imperial Hotspots SyriaArmenia (Marcus Aurelius took the name Armeniacus)Parthia (took the name Parthicus)Chatti (took the name Germanicus by 172 since the name appears in inscriptions then [Cassius Dio])BritonsMarcomanni (when Aurelius defeated them and freed the Pannonian provinces, he and his son Commodus celebrated a triumph) Plague As Marcus Aurelius was preparing for the Marcommanic War (along the Danube, between Germanic tribes and Rome), a plague broke out killing thousands. The Antonini (Marcus Aurelius and his co-emperor/brother-by adoption) helped with burials expenses. Marcus Aurelius also aided the Romans in time of famine and so is thought of as a particularly benevolent rule. Death Marcus Aurelius died in March 180. Before his funeral, he had been declared a god. When his wife, Faustina, had died in 176, Marcus Aurelius asked the Senate to deify her and built her a temple. The gossipy Augustan History says that Faustina had not been a chaste wife and that it was considered a stain on Marcus Aurelius reputation that he promoted her lovers. Marcus Aurelius ashes were put in Hadrians mausoleum. Marcus Aurelius was succeeded by his biological heir, in contradistinction to the previous four good emperors. Marcus Aurelius son was Commodus. The Column of Marcus Aurelius The Column of Marcus Aurelius had a spiral staircase leading to a top from which one could view the Antonine funerary monuments in the Campus Martius. Marcus Aurelius German and Sarmatian campaigns were shown in relief sculptures spiraling up the 100-Roman-foot column. 'The Meditations' Between 170 and 180, Marcus Aurelians wrote 12 books of generally pithy observations from what is considered a Stoic perspective while emperor, in Greek. These are known as his Meditations. Source â€Å"Marcus Aurelius Antoninus - 1911 Encyclopedia Britannica - Bible Encyclopedia.†Ã‚  StudyLight.org, www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/bri/m/marcus-aurelius-antoninus.html.

Antitrust practices Essay Example for Free

Antitrust practices Essay Antitrust practices are practices carried on by businesses that end up destroying perfect competition in the market. Antitrust laws are laws prepared to seek and promote healthy market competition by preventing anti-competitive practices by companies. Some of the illegal practices that constitute to antitrust behavior include corporate mergers, monopolies and price fixing conspiracies (Bailey, 2010). The Clayton Act of 1914 was passed by the U.S Congress. It was an antitrust law that was amended to stop and prevent practices that led to unhealthy competition in the market. The Clayton Act was amended in order to complement an earlier version of the antitrust law referred to as the Sherman antitrust Act of 1980. This was a federal law that sought to prevent practices that were harmful to consumers such as cartels, monopolies and other unfair business practices (California Association of REALTORS, 2005). One of the recent firms to be investigated for antitrust behavior is Google Company that leads the online searching industry. According to Weiss (2014), the firm recently was being investigated by Competition Commission of India (CCI) for claims that it abused its dominance in the online search engine industry by mainly promoting its own services over those of its rivals. This reason is considered to create unhealthy competition in the business as the search engine company dominates its rivals in what is considered almost a monopolistic market. Antitrust behavior brings about both pecuniary and non-pecuniary costs. Since it damages healthy competition in the market, monopolies can result and this has adverse effects to the prices of commodities. The products end up becoming costly and expensive for the customers and, therefore, affecting the society negatively (Bailey, 2010). On the other hand, antitrust behavior leads to the output of products falling below the market competitive le vel and this is mainly witnessed in monopolistic markets. Then again, the antitrust practices can be costly for any company that has engaged in them since if investigations prove that the company is guilty of the said acts then heavy penalties can be imposed on them. Furthermore, this can ruin the reputation of any company and, therefore, ending up losing its customers (Bailey, 2010). Monopolies and oligopolies are not always good for the society. Their presence in any market simply means they have all the power to control the prices of their products and services. This is not favorable to the customers since prices can always go up any time especially when the demand for certain commodities is high. One good example of an oligopoly is the Coca Cola and Pepsi Companies. These are the world’s largest beverage companies and demand for their products is never decreasing. However, these two companies represent a market with few suppliers while the consumers are many. They have all the power to dictate their products’ prices and the consumers have no power whatsoever (Hovenkamp, 2011). On the other hand, some government monopolies can be considered beneficial to the members of the society. Many governments in the current world control the production and supply of electricity and other forms of energy. This is useful because the governments aim at providin g such services to the citizens at affordable prices and across the countries. It is the responsibility of the government to enhance infrastructure development in the country and, therefore, running such sectors of the economy can be beneficial to consumers. In conclusion, it is important to point out that antitrust practices are unwanted behaviors since they destroy healthy competition among businesses. However, the law is strict on companies that engage in these practices and heavy penalties can be imposed on them. Antitrust practices include price fixing, corporate mergers and creation of monopolies (Reeves, 2010). Antitrust practices. (2016, Feb 28). We have essays on the following topics that may be of interest to you

Grand Hotels Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Grand Hotels - Case Study Example For this, a major instrument required is personal handy phones or PHPs through which the hotel staff members are constantly connected. Grand purchases its PHPs from its regular supplier Four Star. However, a sudden strike in the Four Star’s factory has stopped the production leading to crisis of PHPs on time. Also, the supplier is nearly bankrupt. The company needs to find out a supplier that can provide the required number of PHPs on time and without any quality issues. The major objective of the meeting is to find out the suitability and capability of the supplier in terms of timely delivery, quality and affordability as well as negotiating with the suppliers in terms of pricing so as to get the optimal value from the negotiation. The bigger objective of the meeting is to evaluate the benefits and risks of long-term relationship with the supplier. Grand is one of the well known hotels in the city. The hotel is famous for its luxury, quality and service. The brand has also be en maintaining its service stature for a long time and has expanded many regions across Europe. Its latest expansion has been in Prague through a luxury convention and tourist hotel with 5000 rooms.

Terrorism and patriot act Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Terrorism and patriot act - Coursework Example Over 3000 people lost their lives. While America was still recovering from the shock of this barbaric act on its home soil, President George W. Bush lost no time in pursuit of the culprits. He ordered airstrikes on likely hideouts of Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan. At the administrative level, he promulgated the Patriot Act 2001 and established the Department of Homeland Security to help deal with all further threats and protect the borders of the USA and its people. Some sweeping powers were given to these personnel to track, apprehend and arrest possible suspects who wanted to harm America and its interests. The extent of these powers is a matter of debate, as many opine that it violates the rights of privacy and freedom as guaranteed under the U.S Constitution (Worrall, 2011). The Patriot Act was signed into Law by President Bush on October 26, 2001, just over a month and a half after the events of September 11. The Act has 10 separate sections, one each relating to enhancing domestic security against terrorism, surveillance procedures, anti-money-laundering, removing obstacles to investigations, information sharing, criminal law, terrorism intelligence and border security. Many sections were due to sunset after four years, but they were extended by President Obama in the larger public interest (CLDC, 2012). Among the most contentious of the powers under Section 213 is that of arresting someone on mere suspicion of being a terrorist, and that of searching his or her house without a warrant. Section 218 allows for wiretapping of such suspect’s every means of communication. Under Section 805, anybody even suspected of giving advice or assistance to a terrorist would be liable for arrest and prosecution. Granted that we have to nip terrorism in the bud, but such measures are a close call to violating the privacy and integrity of American citizens and go against the widely held precept of ‘innocent till proven

How would you describe human personality Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

How would you describe human personality - Essay Example ts, his own growth and development patterns, reactions and moods, his social encounters with the people around him– all these come together to help form his personality. This is how the book of Duane and Sydney Schultz (2005) view personality. The formation of one’s personality is dependent on many factors that may inter-relate or overlap. Personality traits are believed to be inherited. They may also be influenced by one’s environment. Personality traits may also be learned from experience or may be strongly molded by the parenting style one has been exposed to. Personality may also be affected by the changes we encounter in life. It is also controlled by conscious and unconscious processes. A person’s experiences leave imprints on his personality. For instance, well-adjusted, well-rounded and successful individuals often share a childhood marked by happy memories and nurturing relationships with family and friends. Bitter, angry and cold people are most likely victims of a bleak childhood filled with disappointments and hurtful relationships. These personal views on personality were influenced by my exposure to the Psychoanalytical theories of Freud, Jung and Erikson. I found it fascinating, albeit complicated. Some of the theories were shocking and mind-boggling, but upon further study and analysis, I realize that it made a lot of sense, especially in explaining how a person comes to be. The Psychoanalytic theory is premised on the belief that human nature is greatly affected by a person’s early childhood experiences and conflicts between impulses and prohibitions. Sigmund Freud’s views human behavior as determined by irrational forces, unconscious motivations and biological and instinctual drives evolving in the first six years of life. According to Freud, there are two levels of personality: the conscious corresponds to its ordinary everyday meaning; the unconscious is the invisible portion of personality below the surface. (Schultz

Research Design and Methods Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Research Design and Methods - Coursework Example Research according to Jupp (2006) entails exploration, analysis, interpretation and the creation of understanding of varied phenomena which are educational in nature, and pertains a formalized and gradual occurrence of social, cultural and psychological processes. This implies that it deals with educational concerns in which there are possibilities of carrying out satisfactory investigation. Similarly, â€Å"†¦the methods which enable such satisfactory investigations and the utility of the results emanating from the investigation are important.† (Dash 1993). The theoretical questions in education result from varied concepts and social understandings of the same. For this reasons, a number of varied paradigms have been brought forward to explain the criteria depending on the methodology selected and the definitions of the concerns for the inquiry. A paradigm, according to Kuhn (1962) â€Å"†¦an integrated cluster of substantive, concepts, variables and problems attached with corresponding methodological approach and tools† (p.52). Positivism paradigm- The paradigm explores social reality and is anchored on ideas of August Conte, a French philosopher. Conte postulates that the two key aspects of observation and reason inform the understanding of human behavior. He underscores the knowledge is based on sensual experience which is obtained through experimentation and observation. His scientific method is, therefore, used by positivistic thinkers to generate knowledge. There are a number of assumptions under the positivism, which are vital in helping to understand the paradigm. However, these assumptions at some point have been considered as separate paradigms of their own. They include; the assumption of ‘Parsimony’, the assumption of ‘Empiricism’ the assumption of ‘Generality’ and the assumption of ‘Determinism’ which form the framework within which the paradigm is

Adult Learners in Higher Education and Training Assignment - 1

Adult Learners in Higher Education and Training - Assignment Example alcolm Knowles was one of the most active adult educators who claimed that learning contracts is the best tool in achieving study goals he sets out for adult learners. Even though contract learning might be one of the most valuable tools for learning in adults it is not always the most useful. In those cases where learners do not have much knowledge about their subject, its depths and its prospects, students are not in a very sound position to make strategies and commitments about the goals they set for themselves in a contract. The main objective of contract learning for Knowles was structuring the learning process in its best and most fruitful way where the content of the educational material is replaced by the process. Students get involved in the study process and they comprehend everything with an active approach. Contract learning puts a sense of responsibility on student and they feel more in control of what they would want to learn instead of feeling ‘being stuck’ with studies. Contract learning is also effective in student groups comprising of students with different backgrounds. This tool reduces the problems due to such difference in

How would you describe human personality Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

How would you describe human personality - Essay Example ts, his own growth and development patterns, reactions and moods, his social encounters with the people around him– all these come together to help form his personality. This is how the book of Duane and Sydney Schultz (2005) view personality. The formation of one’s personality is dependent on many factors that may inter-relate or overlap. Personality traits are believed to be inherited. They may also be influenced by one’s environment. Personality traits may also be learned from experience or may be strongly molded by the parenting style one has been exposed to. Personality may also be affected by the changes we encounter in life. It is also controlled by conscious and unconscious processes. A person’s experiences leave imprints on his personality. For instance, well-adjusted, well-rounded and successful individuals often share a childhood marked by happy memories and nurturing relationships with family and friends. Bitter, angry and cold people are most likely victims of a bleak childhood filled with disappointments and hurtful relationships. These personal views on personality were influenced by my exposure to the Psychoanalytical theories of Freud, Jung and Erikson. I found it fascinating, albeit complicated. Some of the theories were shocking and mind-boggling, but upon further study and analysis, I realize that it made a lot of sense, especially in explaining how a person comes to be. The Psychoanalytic theory is premised on the belief that human nature is greatly affected by a person’s early childhood experiences and conflicts between impulses and prohibitions. Sigmund Freud’s views human behavior as determined by irrational forces, unconscious motivations and biological and instinctual drives evolving in the first six years of life. According to Freud, there are two levels of personality: the conscious corresponds to its ordinary everyday meaning; the unconscious is the invisible portion of personality below the surface. (Schultz

Adult Learners in Higher Education and Training Assignment - 1

Adult Learners in Higher Education and Training - Assignment Example alcolm Knowles was one of the most active adult educators who claimed that learning contracts is the best tool in achieving study goals he sets out for adult learners. Even though contract learning might be one of the most valuable tools for learning in adults it is not always the most useful. In those cases where learners do not have much knowledge about their subject, its depths and its prospects, students are not in a very sound position to make strategies and commitments about the goals they set for themselves in a contract. The main objective of contract learning for Knowles was structuring the learning process in its best and most fruitful way where the content of the educational material is replaced by the process. Students get involved in the study process and they comprehend everything with an active approach. Contract learning puts a sense of responsibility on student and they feel more in control of what they would want to learn instead of feeling ‘being stuck’ with studies. Contract learning is also effective in student groups comprising of students with different backgrounds. This tool reduces the problems due to such difference in

The Major League Baseball Players Association Essay Example for Free

The Major League Baseball Players Association Essay The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) is the union of professional baseball players in the major league. The Association plays the role of collective bargaining for all major league players and it is also the representative for players that need salary arbitration. Like any other union, MLBPA defends the rights of its members and functions in order to protect the players’ best interest. One of the attributions of the MLBPA is that of making sure that the conditions for playing are in accordance with the Association’s safety guidelines. A union of professional baseball players was necessary for promoting the interests of the players and so unions acting in the benefit of professional players were created almost from the very beginning of the history of baseball as a sport. MLBPA does not represent the first union of baseball players, as previous attempts included the Brotherhood of Professional Baseball Players (founded in 1885), Players Protective Association (1900), Fraternity of Professional Baseball Players of America (1912), or American Baseball Guild (1946) (Major League Baseball Players Association, 2007). The basis of MLBPA was set by the formation of the American Baseball Guild which was created by labor lawyer Robert Murphy (Haupert, 2003). The major change that was the outcome of the Guild was that the standard labor contract of players was changed in the benefit of the players since before this change the contracts were very much dictated by owners (Haupert, 2003). Although the Guild was unsuccessful in forming a union, it did bring a great deal of change in the way players’ contracts and rights were being handled. MLBPA is currently the baseball players’ organization and the outcome of this association is the result of the changes that took place in the unionization of baseball players. The union was formed in 1954, but it â€Å"remained in the background until the players hired Marvin Miller in 1966 to head the organization† (Haupert, 2003). This was the decisive step in the future of the union of baseball players. Miller was a former negotiator for the US steel workers and this experience was used with success in the interest of baseball players (Haupert, 2003). The leadership of Marvin Miller and his influence was very usefull for the interest of MLBPA. His skills turned out to exceed those of the owners as he managed to change the rules of the game and represent the players in gaining what was theirs. He managed to control the power that owners had on the players and trough his tough practices to make the opinion of players matter in matters of trade and such (Rockford). Miller’s leadership had a great impact on the unionization of baseball players as his lead brought the most important changes in the life of professional baseball players. Marvin Miller retired in 1984 after managing to put an end to the reserve clause, to ensure the right of free movement from team to team, to gain a great raise in the salary of baseball players (Rockford). Other important changes that were conducted and influenced by Miller’s organizational skills referred to a greater implication of the union in labor disputes, to the creation of a pension fund sponsored mainly from percentages of television revenue. But the most important accomplishment of Miller’s leadership was that the union was recognized and also the right of players to be represented in negotiations by a collective organization was also recognized (Rockford). Marvin Miller is responsible for making baseball a business profitable both for owners and players. The current leader of MLBPA, Don Fehr, was hired by Miller in 1977 as general counsel and after the retirement of Miller he was chosen by the players to represent them as executive director of MLBPA (Haupert, 2003). Fehr’s influence was noticeable for following the policies of his predecessor, continuing the road chosen by Miller. Fehr’s accomplishments are shown in his role of negotiator in collective bargaining with major league owners and in â€Å"administering contracts, grievance arbitration, and pension and health care matters† (Schwarz, 2003). His mission leading the union was even harder that expected because he was replacing a legend, the man that built the union and that had lead it successfully for such a long time. Even so, Fehr was successful in leading the union and in defending the interest of the players. â€Å"The average salary of a major leaguer has gone from $ 185,000 in 1981 to $2. 47 million in 2005. † (Cooper, 2006) MLBPA managed to use the changes made by former unions or associations of professional baseball players and managed to become today the strongest sports union around. Under the leadership of only two, but strong leaders, MLBPA has progressed greatly and this progress is first of all attributed to the leaders that had always had a coherent policy and strong faith in their mission. Perhaps the key to the success of MLBPA is that its leaders have always tried to maintain a unity among the players and by keeping them together and focused on a common goal, they could accomplish the major growth in the baseball industry. Bibliography: Cooper, J. J. , 25 for 25: Don Fehr, July 18, 2006, available at http://www. baseballamerica. com/today/majors/25thanniversary/print261957. html; Haupert, Michael. The Economic History of Major League Baseball. EH. Net Encyclopedia, edited by Robert Whaples. August 27, 2003. available at http://eh. net/encyclopedia/article/haupert. mlb; History of the Major League Baseball Players Association, available at http://mlbplayers. mlb. com/pa/info/history. jsp; Major League Baseball Players Association, 2007, available at http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Major_League_Baseball_Players_Association; Rockford, Warner Oliver, Marvin Miller, available at http://www. baseballlibrary. com/baseballlibrary/ballplayers/M/Miller_Marvin. stm; Schwarz, Alan, One on One: Don Fehr, July 1, 2002, available at http://www. baseballamerica. com/today/features/fehr070102. html;

The Inheritance Of Sins In Sophocles Antigone English Literature Essay

The Inheritance Of Sins In Sophocles Antigone English Literature Essay Inheritance plays a very dominant role in the peoples lives. In both the books, Antigone written by Sophocles in the late 5th century in ancient Greece and The House Of Spirits written by Isabel Allende in the late 20th century, inheritance of sins form one of the major themes. Antigone is the protagonist of Sophocles Antigone. This play takes place in a society where the gods were highly worshipped. To understand this, it is important to know about Oedipus. Oedipus was a man of quick action and extraordinary insight. But, this habit of his eventually turns against him.He saved Thebes from the curse of the Sphinx and became the king overnight,he murders his own father without knowing it, He marries his own mother Jacosta without realizing it, he stabs his own eyes, and then he himself demands to be exiled. He does all of this without knowing that one day, his curse will also befall on his family. The Greeks believed, that the entire family would be destroyed because of some crime committed by their forefathers because the god send them pain and suffering on order to avenge them. This is brought out in the very opening of the play when Antigone says:My own dear sister, Ismene, of all the sufferings bequeathed by Oedipus, can you think of one that Zeus has not given the two of us in our lifetime?  [1]  .. Antigone is very similar to Oedipus. She begins the play with almost the same characteristics that Oedipus did. But Antigone had one thing Oedipus didnt, she knew her past very well. She was not afraid of the approaching fate of the her life.When a house has been shaken by the gods, The ruin never leaves them, but creeps on Through generations of the family2., The chorus sing of the curse, the sins committed by the forefathers, which can brutally destroy a family, generation by generation.. One generation does not free the next, But a god strikes them down3., Antigones lif e revolves around the sins committed by her father due to which she lost her mother, brothers and finally she is going to lose herself. She is continuously haunted by the distortion that has destroyed her family. But she is aware of the fate that has been fixed for her and she feels that she has nothing to lose. The thrice told doom of my father, the entire destiny has come to us, to the famous children of Labdacus4., this quote signifies the reflection of Antigone on her family curse again. She keeps talking about the many grieves that Oedipus handed down to his children. In her emotional confusion, she sees herself doomed because of the crimes committed by her father that has brought ruin to their family. By the thrice told doom she keeps repeating her future. Through this we come to know that even though the Greeks believed in that the supernatural power will destroy the families, they also believe on the fact that even the humans are responsible for the choice they make. Antigo ne, though not afraid, moans her awaited destiny and is continually haunted by her family past. The girl is the violent child of a violent father5. At this point of the story, Antigone is being irrational and being impulsive. She does not know what she is saying or doing. Now, she is in the same position as her father, Oedipus, was except for the fact that Antigone is in complete control of her fate which Oedipus wasnt . Unlike Antigone, where there was the society that believed in supernatural powers and beliefs, The House of Spirits takes place in a modern society where the ancient beliefs are not mentioned, still . Yet, the inheritance of the sins completely changes the course of the life of Alba.Alba is the granddaughter of Estaban Trueba. Estaban Garcia is the grandson of Estaban Trueba and Pancha Garcia. He pours all his hatred into Alba to take revenge.. This is so because Estaban Garcia wants to take revenge on his grandfatherby torturing his granddaughter. Hehates his grandfather for not acknowledging him as. In the epilogue of this book, we also find out that Alba becomes the narrator  [i]  of the story. The epilogue of the story plays a major role as it is spoken by Alba herself and it helps her realize the reason behind these painful incidents. In The House of the Spirits, Alba suffers significantly because of her past..Estaban Trueba is the most prominent character in this book and he is the only character who stays from the beginning to the very end of the book. From the very beginning of the story, he makes a lots of mistakes without realising that one day it will bounce back at him through Alba. He forbade anyone to talk to him and could not tolerate opposition; he viewed the slightest disagreement as a provocationà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the peasants hid their daughters and clenched their fists helplessly because they could not confront him6.. The peasants hated the ways Estaban treated them. He considered the workers and the peasants inferior to himself, so he did not give any importance to them. He was a representative of the conservative attitude. He believed that the peasants do not deserve a share in the wealth of the upper class. Estaban is a person who craves for power, and because of his attitude and the state of the gov ernment at that period of time, he became one of the richest person in the region. He treated the peasants and the lower class people with disrespect without understanding that these mistakes will affect his family too.I am beginning to suspect that nothing that happens is fortuitous, that it all corresponds to a faith laid down before my birth7, realization dawns on Alba that she is not going through all of this because of her fault, in fact she is suffering this pain because of the sins and misdeeds committed by people in her previous generations, especially by her grandfather.Because my revenge would be another part of the same inexorable rite8, Alba decides not to seek for revenge because, the sins committed by her in avenging herself will affect not only her, but also the future generations. She also realizes that this is a chain of events and if it does not stop, will continue forever. Estaban Trueba raped Pancha. And now the same sin is being committed by Estaban Garcia to th e granddaughter of the rapist. Alba has a burning desire to stop this circle of sinful incidents that will cause the future generations to suffer. Due to the suffering she had undergone in the hands of Estaban Garcia, Alba andher grandfather to write their familt story in order to , reclaim the past and overcome the terrors of my own9. By writing this story, both Estaban Trueba and Alba are able to let go of their anger and their yearning to take revenge. In both these books, it is seen that the course of the lives of the characters is determined through the sins committed by their forefathers. In Sophocles Antigone, it is brought out through Antigone. In The House of the Spirits, it is brought out through the youngest living character, Alba. In both these books, these characters realize that their life is shadowed by the sins that their ancestors committed in a very painful way. Antigone is tortured to death while Alba is physically and mentally tortured by Estaban Garcia. In Antigone, it was believed that Antigone suffered because the gods bring ruin to the family that has committed sins whereas in The House of the Spirits, Estaban Garcias desire for avenge became the consequence for the sins committed by the Estaban Trueba.In The House of the Spirits, we also see that the government and the political situation also plays an extremely important role in Albas life. It is because of her grandfathers power than gave rise to so many riv als and it was because of the political situation that Alba was tortured. We see that unlike Antigone, Alba realised that the mistakes she does today will affect her upcoming generations. This is what changes her life forever. Antigone dies whereas Alba lives. Though both these books have different places of origin and different timelines, they depict the same theme through these books. Mans life is truly determined by the sins committed by their ancestors in their previous generations.

A Critique of Colette Dowling?s excerpt of The Cinderella Complex: Wo

The â€Å"battle of the sexes† that rages on today is just as strong as it has always been. Although an ever-increasing number of opinions are being heard and made known, many people are still ignorant and hold on to traditional views that can sometimes be damaging. Even though there has been much progress in the ways of communication and understanding, much is still needed to be done and improved upon. Colette Dowling is a well-respected author on women’s psychological issues who uses her personal experiences and insights to enlighten women about themselves. In Dowling’s excerpt of The Cinderella Complex: Women’s Hidden Fear of Independence, she provides a clearly written and rational explanation on the psychological issues of dependency women exhibit, but lacks in supporting evidence and examples. One night she is lying miserable in bed, sick. She then becomes conscious of the fact that she is not despondent because she feels ill, but because there is no one there to comfort her. She realizes now that this is the way it has always been, she has known no other way. Throughout her childhood she was raised with the notion that someday somehow she would be whisked away by her prince charming and live happily ever after. She did not know what it was like to be truly independent. Nor was she raised to be comfortable with it. Boys were trained to be self-sufficient early on while her parents and society taught her that she did not need to be self-reliant; that she only needed to hold on until her â€Å"savior† came. This person (or so she thought) appeared after she had been raising her children alone for the previous four years. As their relationship grew, they reasoned that it would be good if they moved in together. Soon after moving in together, she found herself sinking into the same routines that she had in her marriage. Slowly but surely she fell into the groove of being a â€Å"good house wife† and stopped feeling the need to pursue her career. She found this surprisingly easy and natural. To take the place of her writing she began doing household chores and started cooking again. Within no time she had gained weight and was starting to feel the inadequacies that go along with not having to support one self. She started to doubt her effectiveness as a writer and ability for self-sufficiency. Her loss of ambition also created an unwanted hardship on the relationship b... ... of the stress that accompanies self-sufficiency. Many women in the modern world simply do not have a father figure around. Without the man being the savior, the girls do not have that crutch to lean on and therefore come to not expect any help in the future. These are the truly independent women of today. They have no choice; either rise up and take care of themselves or fade away. Throughout all of these concerns, one thing is evident and cannot be disputed. Humans are truly creatures of environment and circumstance. What may apply to one may be totally foreign and irrelevant to another. One cannot possibly make a blanket statement and without even researching it, expect it to apply to everyone. This is what Dowling attempts to do. All that she has the authority to speak about is her own personal experiences. She cannot possibly fathom all of the intricacies of human life and expect her personal views to be universal, nor can anyone else. No, she should not have had her book published by Ms. Magazine. Although her experiences may be valid for some, they would not necessarily be beneficial for those who were not brought up as she was. How can one expect to know the mind of all?