The True Nature of Obsession (Othello, Endless Love and...

The true nature of obsession manipulates a person’s character, forcing them to act in unusual ways, as if possessed by an involuntary need. An obsessed mind becomes intensely absorbed in the subject of the obsession to an extent that drives away the truth and realism in their values, morals and perceptions. William Shakespeare manifests this idea of an involuntary change in character in the play â€Å"Othello†, and with a similar approach this idea is identified by Scott Spencer in the novel â€Å"Endless Love† and is further explored in â€Å"Obsession†, a poem written by DaMoyre. Throughout each of these texts, the composers’ use of characterization depicts the true nature of obsession with themes of jealously, revenge and, as a consequence, madness.†¦show more content†¦Other characters in the play note this evident juxtaposition, this is reflective of Lodovico’s horror when he experiences Othello’s dramatic transformation, â€Å" Is this the noble Moor whom our full senate, Call all-in-all sufficient? Is the nature/ Whom passion could not shake? Whose solid virtue/ The shot of accident nor dart of chance/ Could neither graze nor pierce?† Shakespeare’s use of repetitive rhetorical questions addresses Lodovico’s shock and dismay in such a dramatic change. Obsession driven revenge often leads to extensive deceiving, lying and dishonesty. Shakespeare conveys this idea with his characterization of Iago and the idea is further investigates by Scott Spencer in his novel â€Å"Endless Love†. First person narration allows the audience to obtain deepened insight into the thoughts of the characters transfixed, consumed and manipulated mind. The characterization of David in this novel exemplifies this notion as he describes the nature of a lie, â€Å" You don’t live it, you live in it, the way you might live in a cave†. Spencer uses a simile to provide imagery and insight into the true nature of obsession. The idea presented is one of captivation and consumption that emerges involuntarily, as a result of consistent lying to gain power and manipulation in a path of revenge. In the poem â€Å"Obsession†, DaMoyre presents the idea of jealous driven revenge as a result of constant craving, yarning and need for the subject of obsession, without gain. In a

James Joyce s A Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Man

The popularity of the coming of age novel in the Twentieth and the Twenty First Centuries reveals a deepening understanding of the impact of childhood and adolescent experiences in the long-term development of adulthood. Such is the case of James Joyce’s A portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, which explores the lasting impact of Steven Dedalus’ boyhood and teenage years on his destiny as an artist. The majority of the novel centres on these early years and draws upon the conventions of the Bildungsroman. The narrative largely is driven by impressionistic and sensory language which initially focuses on Steven’s encounters with the world but eventually turns inwards to focus on his emotional development and understanding of himself.†¦show more content†¦Furthermore Joyce’s purpose is further revealed through his protagonist’s view of the artist. Steven expresses the view of the role of the artist as an individual who chooses to isolate them selves; through the strict focalisation and the stream of consciousness the reader is able to experience Steven’s isolation and the development of his artistic expression (Belanger xxiv). However, as a result of this isolation we are given limited insight into the way Steven is perceived by others. One of the only descriptions given is from his rival at Belvedere, Heron. He says, â€Å"Dedalus is model youth. He doesn’t smoke and doesn’t go to bazaars and he doesn’t flirt and he doesn’t damn anything and damn all.† (Joyce 57). The repetition of doesn’t implies that Steven is reluctant to participate in the world around him, that in fact he does isolate himself from others and to an extent becomes an observer of life. Ultimately, Joyce does not prioritise the perception of Steven by others, choosing to focus on Steven’s perception of himself. The novel opens with the story of the baby tuckoo, which Steven realises is him, â€Å"He was baby tuckoo. The moocow came down the road where Betty Byrne lived† (Joyce 3). This short tale becomes a microcosm the entire novel and sets the tone for a narrative of self-discovery and realisation (Belanger ix). FollowingShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of James Joyce s A Portrait Of An Artist As A Young Man Essay2057 Words   |  9 PagesJames Joyce and H.G. Wells had different styles of writing and relied on different forms of narration. H.G. Wells was direct and focused on the external environment or situation. He did not give much insight on the thoughts or internal struggle of his characters, while James Joyce did. Joyce supplied his characters with a greater level of internal comprehension than Wells did and was able to provide more human like characters. This difference is especially seen in H.G Well’s Tono-Bungay and JamesRead MoreAnalysis Of James Joyce s A Portrait Of An Artist As A Young Man Essay1953 Words   |  8 PagesJames Joyce and H.G. Welles had different styles of writing and relied on different forms of narration. H.G. Wells was direct and focused on the external environment or situation. He did not give much insight on the thoughts or internal struggle of his characters, while James Joyce did. Joyce supplied his characters with a greater level of internal comprehension than Wells did and was able to provide more human like characters. This difference is especially seen in H.G Well’s Tono-Bungay and JamesRead MoreAnalysis Of James Joyce s Portrait Of An Artist As A Young Man2639 Words   |  11 Pagesof the nature of God. James Joyce s Portrait of An Artist as a Young Man is a narration of the transition from childhood to adulthood of the protagonist, Stephen Dedalus, who grows up in a Catholic society and family life in Ireland. Because of the nature of his church s role in his life, Stephen faces internal conflict regarding his own thoughts and beliefs about the nature of God. After many trials and tribulations with his faith life, Stephen realizes that the church s unequivocal teachingsRead MoreAnalysis Of James Joyce s Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Man2299 Words   |  10 Pagescontrol by the Catholic Church provided structure and stability in their lives, for others it was a source of major struggle and inner conflict. James Joyce found the Catholic Church’s power to be both overwhelming and repressive. In his Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, we see his inner struggle portrayed through the main character Stephen Dedalus. Like Joyce, Stephen struggles throughout his childhood and adolescence with the rigidity and severity of the Catholic Church. Initially, Stephen blindlyRead MoreStephen As A Fan Of Lord Byron s Poetry1503 Words   |  7 Pages and Stephen knew his essay contained heresy because he, â€Å"did not look up. [†¦] He was conscious of failure and detection [†¦]à ¢â‚¬  (Joyce, 69) After opening Stephen’s essay to find the heresy in question, Mr. Tate proclaimed, â€Å"Ah! without a possibility of ever approaching nearer. That’s heresy,† to which Stephen mumbled, â€Å"I meant without a possibility of ever reaching† (Joyce, 69). Stephen’s intentional act of heresy points to his religious dissent. Stephen is also a fan of Lord Byron’s poetry. One nightRead MoreA Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Man1664 Words   |  7 PagesIn A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, Stephen Dedalus grows out of a repressive society fueled by religious beliefs to realize his true desire to be an artist. In Ireland at the time, there is no influence as strong as religion but somehow Stephen is able to look over the wall and find determination to be an artist. He faces numerous struggles along his path and since the novel ends with Stephen just deciding to take his action, it is unclear if he even ever escapes the reli gious influencesRead More Rejection and Isolation in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man1074 Words   |  5 Pages As James Joyces A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man unfolds, the central theme of isolation and rejection becomes evident. From birth to adolescence, the protagonist of the story, Stephen Dedalus, responds to his experiences throughout life with actions of rejection and isolation. He rebels against his environment and isolates himself in schoolwork, family, religion and his art, successively. James Joyce uses Stephen Dedalus responses of isolation and rejection to illustrate theRead More Essay on Kinship in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man1522 Words   |  7 PagesSearch for Kinship in Joyce’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   At the heart of James Joyce’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man lies Stephen Dedalus, a sensitive young man concerned with discovering his purpose in life. Convinced that his lack of kinship or community with others is a shortcoming that he must correct, Stephen, who is modeled after Joyce, endeavors to fully realize himself by attempting to create a forced kinship with others. He tries many methods in hopesRead MoreThe Social And Historical Context Of A Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Man And My Son1436 Words   |  6 Pageshistorical context of A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and My Son the Fanatic and how they enhance our understanding of the texts and then compare the two in their respective contexts. Religious extremism is a social ideology that is heavily implemented into both A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and My Son the Fanatic. With Steven Dedalus being subjected to his traditional family views of Catholicism as was the author of A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, James Joyce. Throughout the textRead MoreMy Understanding Of A Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Man By James Joyce1029 Words   |  5 Pagesexploring various literary pieces can be an interesting task for the young mind. By observing myself and my peers I have developed an opinion, this opinion was reinforced by reading How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas Foster. There are different stages of comprehension. Authors and readers utilize both experiences and prior knowledge quite often. My understanding of A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man By James Joyce was vastly impacted after reading Foster’s book. Instead of just reading

Foundation Management for Hospitality & Tourism -myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theFoundation Management for Hospitality Tourism. Answer: Introduction Scientific management is defined as a process through which maximum efficiency is realized through normalizing tasks by segregating work into small pieces. The concept of scientific management approach aimed to improve labor productivity by following certain principles. It was developed by Frederick Taylor towards the end of 19th century. Human relations approach on the other hand, was developed later and focuses more on achieving goals through improved relationships, recognition and motivation of workers themselves. Modern management theory tries to revise and refine its predecessors in attempt to unify them. Although the basic principles in scientific management theories remain relevant even in modern management approach, there are some key aspects that completely differ. Contrary to scientific management approach, modern management approach stipulates that no one best way of doing this will apply for all situations. Discussion Scientific management This was developed during industrial revolution when large scale factories were created. The solution to management problems, made by Frederick Taylor by developing scientific theory of management, has greatly contributed to the current management practice. It has contributed in solving management problems like organizational inefficiencies, safety issues, supervision, conflict and industrial unrest. Scientific management was characterized by what Taylor referred to as principles of scientific management. From these principles, work is standardized based on measurements and formulae where workers are matched to tasks with respect to their skills (Shaw, 2017). Coordination of activities and separation of planning and execution are emphasized. The principles are based on science, which is the tool used in formulation of procedures to ensure cooperation as opposed to individualism, maximum output instead of restricted output and development of human resources to achieve highest efficien cy and prosperity. Contribution of this approach to work is evident in organization of labor such that work is not based on technical superiority but instead focuses on division of labor then integration of tasks to achieve a common goal. Management uses this science to integrate methods, policies, planning and people to achieve objectives. Taylorism has led to differentiation of skilled and unskilled labor, improved productivity and reduced craft based work. Today, it is used in manufacturing and in mass production. Division of labor still forms the basis of work organization. Human resource managers are still concerned in fostering cooperation. Limitations associated with this approach are that it resulted to repetitions that bring about boredom and promotes deskilling. Human Relations Movement Human relation school portrays organizations as system of interdependent human resources. Mary parker added a measurement of human aspect to the study of organizations. Chester Barnards theory views organizations as systems of coordinated human activities (Feldman Worline, 2016). This study emphasizes on understanding human behavior such as motivations rather than economic factors. This is because employees are found to be social as opposed to economic beings. Work should be viewed as group activity since groups exert strong impacts over individuals. Social factors help productivity to increase, therefore employees performance can be improved by cultivating good relations and trust between managers and workers. Informal work groups are found to influence performance as was observed in Hawthorne effect. Cooperation is an important aspect of productivity and this is connected to the importance of interpersonal skills among managers, who should as well have skills in controlling and pl anning (Loonam, 2014). Such human factors lead motivation based productivity, job satisfaction and cooperation between workers and their supervisors. Attention paid to the role of leadership and supervisory development, motivation and harmony at place of work are key things that can be used to gauge productivity in this perspective. On the other hand, conflict between needs of human workers and those of management of organizations demotivates employees. Modern Management Theory and Practice Modern period with regard to management theory is recent period starting from 1960 to present. This has drifted from extreme human relations thinking about morale and productivity (Robledo, 2016). Modern management wants equal emphasis on machine and human workforce. Principles of management, which are key features of scientific management, reached a point which marked the beginning of modern approaches to management where they needed to be revised and refined in attempt to reach perfection. A new approach that needed to unify different approaches and inclusive of emerging needs was develop and became what is known as modern management theory. This approach of management is sensitive to aspects such as social responsibilities of various societies such as employees, trade unions, customers and shareholders. Three streams of thinking have arisen from it: quantitative (mathematical) approach, systems approach and contingency approach. Quantitative Approach This approach emphasizes on use of mathematical models as universally recognized analysis tool as they provide a good channel for precise explanation of relationships and concepts. It considers variables and inputs in a quantitative basis which can be modelled to help management in decision making. Different tools and quantitative techniques such as simulation, linear programming are increasingly being used to cover a wide scope while studying current problems. It is based on assumption that all aspects of management can be treated in quantitative terms. However, it is recognized that sound judgement in managerial decisions is critical and that mathematical models cannot be substituted (Suddaby, 2015). Contributions of this approach are very significant in the field of management. This has boosted development of orderly thinking of managers by bringing about exactness to managerial processes. This approach has its limitations. It is narrow since it is merely based on solving certain managerial problems that are specific to certain situations. In real life situations, executives are required to make decisions quickly with no time to wait all the information necessary to develop models. The assumption made in this approach that all variables in decision making are measurable is not realistic. Furthermore, information available with regard to decision making based on mathematical models are not always up to date. Systems Approach This approach tried to unify its predecessor schools of thoughts. Organizations are viewed as open systems composed of interdependent subsystems whose interaction contribute to orderly totality of an organization. It is based on the idea that things and processes in an organization are inter-related and interdependent. Various components of the system should to be studied with regard to their interdependent relationship instead of isolation of each (Devers, et al, 2014). The system is composed of a boundary that defines external and internal environment. The system receives information from outside that undergo changes within the internal environment of subsystems and gives output to the external environment. It is therefore dynamic and responsive to changes in the environment. System approach is important in managerial perspective because it aims to solve objectives of an organization in an open system manner. It is easier to locate non performing subsystems and fix them without alt ering the performance of other subsystems (Harrison, et al, 2015). This approach has contributed in analyzing the functions of complex organizations such as project management organizations. Subsystems interactions help to bring interrelations aspects to managerial functions of planning, organizing, controlling and leading. This approach is advantageous over others since it is thought to be very close to reality. However, it may not be applicable to large and more complex organizations. It is regarded vague as it fails to provide any technique to managers. Contingency or Situational Approach This is the latest and it is an improvement of system approach. It is based on the fact that management problems are different at different situations and should be handled so as to cater for the needs at the situation. As opposed to scientific theory of management, contingency approach views problems as situational other than repetitive and thus one best way of management does not always apply. The behavior of one sub unit is in contingent with its environment (Alonso, et al, 2016). To change the behavior of a sub unit, then to one must change the situation influencing it. This approach emphasis on internal and external environments, which are the sub systems of an organization, which are analyzed and integrated to provide practical solutions to problems for given situations. The subsystems analysis helps in determination of organizational designs and managerial actions that are critical in making most appropriate decision for specific situations. In contrary with management theory about universality, contingency approach stipulates no one best way of doing things will apply in all situations. Managers should prepare strategies and policies according to situations the problems arise in. It emphasizes that for such managerial strategies to be effective, adjustment must be made in response to changes in the environment. Diagnostic skills need to be improved for an organization be ready and anticipate for environmental changes. Managers need to have human relations skills in order to accommodate change (Sharma, 2016). Contingency approach forms a basis of brighter ways for development of management theory in future. This approach makes a realistic view in management and disregards validity of universal management principles. It advises executives to be creative and innovative by being situation-oriented. However, this approach does not have theoretical base hence it is upon an executive to weigh between options before taking an action. Conclusion Management theories are vital in analyzing the managerial problems. Different theories have been formed to help in this analysis. Each of them has contributed to modern management. Scientific management theory forms the basis of management approaches. Human relations builds on the same but emphasizes more on human aspect. However, modern theories of managements are not in total agreement with scientific approach. They reject the idea by scientific theory of management that all aspects in management can be modelled mathematically and argues that there is no one best way that will work in all situations. References Alonso-Almeida, M, Celemn-Pedroche, M, Miguel Rodrguez-Antn, J, Rubio-Andrada, L 2016, 'Human and other critical factors in organizational learning in the hotel industry: A contingency approach', Tourism Management Studies, 12, 1, pp. 97-106, Hospitality Tourism Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017. Devers, C, Misangyi, V, Gamache, D 2014, 'editors comments: on the future of publishing management theory', Academy Of Management Review, 39, 3, pp. 245-249, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017. Feldman, M, Worline, M 2016, 'The Practicality of Practice Theory', Academy of Management Learning Education, 15, 2, pp. 304-324, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017. Harrison, J, Freeman, R, S de Abreu, M 2015, 'Stakeholder Theory As an Ethical Approach to Effective Management: applying the theory to multiple contexts', Revista Brasileira De Gesto De Negcios, 17, pp. 858-859, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017. Loonam, J 2014, 'Towards a Grounded Theory Methodology: Reflections for Management Scholars', Irish Journal Of Management, 33, 1, pp. 49-72, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017. Robledo, MA 2016, '3D-Management: An Integral Business Theory', Integral Leadership Review, pp. 72-85, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017. Sharma, DN 2016, 'The Strategic Approach to Management of NPAs in Associate Banks with Special Reference to SBBJ', Journal Of Institute Of Public Enterprise, 39, 3/4, pp. 60-80, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017. Shaw, JD 2017, 'advantages of starting with theory', Academy of Management Journal, vol. 60, no. 3, pp. 819-822. Available from: 10.5465/amj.2017.4003. [10 October 2017]. Suddaby, R 2015, 'editor's comments: why theory?', Academy Of Management Review, 4015, pp. 1-5, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 October 2017.

The Unemployment Rate Essay Example For Students

The Unemployment Rate Essay The Unemployment Rate Essay Introduction The unemployment rate became a hot topic in the past few months when it rose to 3.5 per cent, a recent high for almost 10 years. The jobless rate was higher than the 3.2 per cent unemployment rate recorded in the May to July period. The underemployment rate in the June to August period rose to 2. We will write a custom essay on The Unemployment Rate specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now 5 per cent from 2.3 per cent in the May to July period. Until recently, most workers who lost their jobs were from the manufacturing sector. They were middle-aged factory workers with few skills and little education. But in recent months a large number of employees have been laid off in the retail and restaurant businesses. Unemployment has spilled over to the service sector from manufacturing sector. Hong Kong is facing a prolonged economic downturn. The high unemployment rate has raised many social and economic problems. For example, the number of people who commit suicide is increased. It is because more people had lost their jobs for a long time. It is a serious threat to the lives of the poor. The unemployed people may also feel that it is unmeaningful to live. As a result, they will commit suicide to solve the problem. Moreover, the high unemployment rate results in the increase of the rate of crime. There was an unemployed man who stole rice because he was too hungry and he did not have money to even buy food! We can know how serious the unemployment rate is. By the way, higher unemployment rate causes lower purchasing power of people. A lot of kinds of business are affected. Many people lose confidence in economics of Hong Kong. They do not believe unemployment will be improved. Some say that the Government should provide immediate assistance for the jobless. Some also say unemployment is due to the attraction of cheap labor across the border. The Government can no longer play the role of a bystander. All of these above show the influence of the unemployment. In spite of how many people who have talked about the topic of unemployment, everyone will be concerned about this topic. The following sections will analyze this hot topic. Reasons for unemployment in Hong Kong 1. Faster growth in total labor supply relative to that of total employment In 1993 and 1994, the increase in Hong Kong labor force is 2.9% and 3.5% respectively. At the end of 1993, the total labour supply is 2 970 000. Change in the total labour supply is determined by the population growth, total employment and the emigration condition. If the population growth and the total employment is stable, the extra labour supply will increase the total labour supply. This extra labour supply are mostly from the influx of illegal immigrants from China, imported labour ( 30,000 ), hiring of expatriates ( net increase is 40,000 from 1992 to 1994 ) and the returnees from overseas. Thus, the supply of labour is greater than the demand and gives pressure on employment. From March to May of 1995, the total labour supply had risen 4.4% but the total employment had just increased 3. 6%, so this aggravated the unemployment rate. However, this is just a superficial reason. The following reasons can explain the reason of unemployment in a deeper way. 2. Change in the economic structure The economic structure in Hong Kong has changed from labour intensive to high technology and large capital intensive. Also, it changes from manufacturing oriented to service oriented industries. Therefore, the manufacturing factories move to China for cheap labour. From 1988 to 1994, there are 60,000 jobs lost each year. Of the total employment of different sectors, the portion of the manufacturing industries drops from 27.4% in 1990 to 17% in 1994. Many labour are released from the manufacturing industries. Though there are a great demand of labour in the service sector, many of the unemployed still cannot find their job because of job matching problem. .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 , .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .postImageUrl , .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 , .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9:hover , .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9:visited , .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9:active { border:0!important; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9:active , .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9 .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc5ad4f7a3d6a7cacd0b3cb7a69175ef9:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: GMOs Essay They do not have the skills demanded in the job market, so there are both a lot of vacancies of jobs and a lot of unemployed labour. This kind of unemployment is called the structural unemployment which is a kind of involuntary unemployment. 3. China Policy Recently, the Chinese government tries to control the economy by macro policy such as implementing the contractionary monetary policy , inflation control policy. This leads to the slow down in the Chinese economy. The flow in of the Chinese capital to Hong Kong for speculation and investment reduce. This affects Hong Kongs economic growth simultaneously. In . The Unemployment Rate Essay Example For Students The Unemployment Rate Essay The Unemployment Rate Essay Introduction The unemployment rate became a hot topic in the past few months when it rose to 3.5 per cent, a recent high for almost 10 years. The jobless rate was higher than the 3.2 per cent unemployment rate recorded in the May to July period. The underemployment rate in the June to August period rose to 2. We will write a custom essay on The Unemployment Rate specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now 5 per cent from 2.3 per cent in the May to July period. Until recently, most workers who lost their jobs were from the manufacturing sector. They were middle-aged factory workers with few skills and little education. But in recent months a large number of employees have been laid off in the retail and restaurant businesses. Unemployment has spilled over to the service sector from manufacturing sector. Hong Kong is facing a prolonged economic downturn. The high unemployment rate has raised many social and economic problems. For example, the number of people who commit suicide is increased. It is because more people had lost their jobs for a long time. It is a serious threat to the lives of the poor. The unemployed people may also feel that it is unmeaningful to live. As a result, they will commit suicide to solve the problem. Moreover, the high unemployment rate results in the increase of the rate of crime. There was an unemployed man who stole rice because he was too hungry and he did not have money to even buy food! We can know how serious the unemployment rate is. By the way, higher unemployment rate causes lower purchasing power of people. A lot of kinds of business are affected. Many people lose confidence in economics of Hong Kong. They do not believe unemployment will be improved. Some say that the Government should provide immediate assistance for the jobless. Some also say unemployment is due to the attraction of cheap labor across the border. The Government can no longer play the role of a bystander. All of these above show the influence of the unemployment. In spite of how many people who have talked about the topic of unemployment, everyone will be concerned about this topic. The following sections will analyze this hot topic. Reasons for unemployment in Hong Kong 1. Faster growth in total labor supply relative to that of total employment In 1993 and 1994, the increase in Hong Kong labor force is 2.9% and 3.5% respectively. At the end of 1993, the total labour supply is 2 970 000. Change in the total labour supply is determined by the population growth, total employment and the emigration condition. If the population growth and the total employment is stable, the extra labour supply will increase the total labour supply. This extra labour supply are mostly from the influx of illegal immigrants from China, imported labour ( 30,000 ), hiring of expatriates ( net increase is 40,000 from 1992 to 1994 ) and the returnees from overseas. Thus, the supply of labour is greater than the demand and gives pressure on employment. From March to May of 1995, the total labour supply had risen 4.4% but the total employment had just increased 3. 6%, so this aggravated the unemployment rate. However, this is just a superficial reason. The following reasons can explain the reason of unemployment in a deeper way. 2. Change in the economic structure The economic structure in Hong Kong has changed from labour intensive to high technology and large capital intensive. Also, it changes from manufacturing oriented to service oriented industries. Therefore, the manufacturing factories move to China for cheap labour. From 1988 to 1994, there are 60,000 jobs lost each year. Of the total employment of different sectors, the portion of the manufacturing industries drops from 27.4% in 1990 to 17% in 1994. Many labour are released from the manufacturing industries. Though there are a great demand of labour in the service sector, many of the unemployed still cannot find their job because of job matching problem. .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 , .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .postImageUrl , .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 , .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7:hover , .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7:visited , .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7:active { border:0!important; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7:active , .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7 .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc8c5abc12dbb8f05fd2e04f52e07dcf7:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Christopher Columbus Essay They do not have the skills demanded in the job market, so there are both a lot of vacancies of jobs and a lot of unemployed labour. This kind of unemployment is called the structural unemployment which is a kind of involuntary unemployment. 3. China Policy Recently, the Chinese government tries to control the economy by macro policy such as implementing the contractionary monetary policy , inflation control policy. This leads to the slow down in the Chinese economy. The flow in of the Chinese capital to Hong Kong for speculation and investment reduce. This affects Hong Kongs economic growth simultaneously. In .

Pyrrhus essays

Pyrrhus essays Pyrrhus grew up in Illyria, given sanctuary by the King Glaucias when he was a an infant even when he was offered 200 talents for the boy. Pyrrhus became King of Epirus when he was twelve with an army supplied by King Glaucias. at 17 Pyruss went to a wedding of one of Glaucias sons, where was a coup and he lost his throne and his property. So he joined his brother in-law Demetrius. Pyrrhus had gained the reputation of being a skilled fighter but At the battle of Ipsus, demtrius lost that battle, lost control of Greece, and Pyrrhus was sent to Egypt as a hostage to secure the peace treaty between King Ptolemy and Demetrius. In Egypt he married the step-daughter of Ptolemy Antigone, who helped him raise money to raise an army. He went to regain his kingdom in 297 to find that Neoptolemus had taken his kingdom over. He didnt fight him for fear of Neoptolemus allies and they agreed to share the government. This went on for sometime until Pyrrhus finally killed Newptolemus. Pyrrhus friends considered him easy going and not one to lose his temper and a person who would always repay kindness. When he was told to banish a man for saying bad things about him he replied Its better to have him saying things here, then around the world. On another occasion he asked some men whether or not they said some things about him. Demetrius had now installed himself as King of Macedonia and now the Kingdom of Pyrrhus was adjacent to the Macedonian kingdom. War between the former allies was inevitable. The two armies missed each other and he met the army that Demetrius left behind. Pantauchus the commander of that army challenged Pyrrhus to a duel. Pyrrhus wounded Pantauchus and as he fell he was saved by his men. Pyrrhus men were so happy with this victory they tore the Macedonian Phalanx apart and took 5000 prisoners. Demetrius was did not want to keep fighting Pyrrhus when he could be ...

Second Battle of Bull Run of the American Civil War

Second Battle of Bull Run of the American Civil War The Second Battle of Bull Run (also called the Second Manassas, Groveton, Gainesville, and Brawners Farm) took place during the second year of the American Civil War. It was a major disaster for the Union forces and a turning point in both strategy and leadership for the North in the attempt to bring the war to its conclusion. Fought in late August of 1862 near Manassas, Virginia, the two-day brutal battle was one of the bloodiest of the conflict. Overall, casualties totaled 22,180, with 13,830 of those Union soldiers. Background The first Battle of the Bull Run occurred 13 months earlier when both sides had gone gloriously to war for their separate notions of what the ideal United States should be. Most people believed that it would take only one big decisive battle to resolve their differences. But the North lost the first Bull Run battle, and by August of 1862, the war had become an unrelentingly brutal affair. In the spring of 1862, Maj. Gen. George McClellan ran the Peninsula Campaign to recapture the Confederate capital at Richmond, in a grueling series of battles that culminated in the Battle of Seven Pines. It was a partial Union victory, but the emergence of the Confederate Robert E. Lee as a military leader in that battle would cost the North dearly. Leadership Change Maj. Gen. John Pope was appointed by Lincoln in June of 1862 to command the Army of Virginia as a replacement for McClellan. Pope was far more aggressive than McClellan but was generally despised by his chief commanders, all of whom technically outranked him. At the time of the second Manassas, Popes new army had three corps of 51,000 men, led by Maj. Gen. Franz Sigel, Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Banks, and Maj. Gen. Irvin McDowell. Eventually, another 24,000 men would join from parts of three corps from McClellans Army of the Potomac, led by Maj. Gen. Jesse Reno. Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee was also new to the leadership: His military star rose at Richmond. But unlike Pope, Lee was an able tactician and admired and respected by his men. In the run-up to the Second Bull Run battle, Lee saw that the Union forces were yet divided, and sensed an opportunity existed to destroy Pope before heading south to finish McClellan. The Army of Northern Virginia was organized into two wings of 55,000 men, commanded by Maj. Gen. James Longstreet and Maj. Gen. Thomas Stonewall Jackson.   A New Strategy for the North One of the elements that surely led to the fierceness of the battle was the change in strategy from the North. President Abraham Lincolns original policy allowed southern noncombatants who had been captured to go back to their farms and escape the cost of war. But the policy failed miserably. Noncombatants continued to support the South in ever-increasing ways, as suppliers for food and shelter, as spies on the Union forces, and as participants in guerrilla warfare. Lincoln instructed Pope and other generals to begin pressuring the civilian population by bringing some of the hardships of war to them. In particular, Pope ordered harsh penalties for guerilla attacks, and some in Popes army interpreted this to mean pillage and steal. That enraged Robert E. Lee. In July of 1862, Pope had his men concentrate at Culpeper courthouse on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad about 30 miles north of Gordonsville between the Rappahannock and Rapidan rivers. Lee  sent Jackson and the left wing to move north to Gordonsville to meet Pope. On Aug. 9, Jackson defeated Banks corps at  Cedar Mountain, and by Aug. 13, Lee moved Longstreet north as well.   Timeline of Key Events Aug. 22–25: Several indecisive skirmishes took place across and along the Rappahannock River. McClellans forces began to join Pope, and in response Lee sent Maj. Gen. J.E.B. Stuarts cavalry division around to the Union right flank. Aug. 26: Marching northward, Jackson seized Popes supply depot in the woods at Groveton, and then struck at the Orange Alexandria Railroad Bristoe Station. Aug. 27: Jackson captured and destroyed the massive Union supply depot at Manassas Junction, forcing Pope into retreat from the Rappahannock. Jackson routed the New Jersey Brigade near Bull Run Bridge, and another battle was fought at Kettle Run, resulting in 600 casualties. During the night, Jackson moved his men north to the first Bull Run battlefield. Aug. 28: At 6:30 p.m., Jackson ordered his troops to attack a Union column as it marched along the Warrenton Turnpike. The battle was engaged on Brawner Farm, where it lasted until dark. Both sustained heavy losses. Pope misinterpreted the battle as a retreat and ordered his men to trap Jacksons men. Aug. 29: At 7:00 in the morning, Pope sent a group of men against a Confederate position north of the turnpike in a series of uncoordinated and largely unsuccessful attacks. He sent conflicting instructions to do this to his commanders, including Maj. Gen. John Fitz Porter, who chose not to follow them. By afternoon, Longstreets Confederate troops reached the battlefield and deployed on Jacksons right, overlapping the Union left. Pope continued to misinterpret the activities and did not receive news of Longstreets arrival until after dark. Aug. 30: The morning was quiet- both sides took the time to confer with their lieutenants. By afternoon, Pope continued to assume incorrectly that the Confederates were leaving, and began planning a massive attack to pursue them. But Lee had gone nowhere, and Popes commanders knew that. Only one of his wings ran with him. Lee and Longstreet moved forward with 25,000 men against the Unions left flank. The North was repelled, and Pope faced disaster. What prevented Popes death or capture was a heroic stand on Chinn Ridge and Henry House Hill, which distracted the South and bought enough time for Pope to withdraw across Bull Run towards Washington around 8:00 p.m. Aftermath The humiliating defeat of the North at the second Bull Run included 1,716 killed, 8,215 wounded and 3,893 missing from the North, a total of 13,824 alone from Popes army. Lee suffered 1,305 killed and 7,048 wounded. Pope blamed his defeat on a conspiracy of his officers for not joining in the attack on Longstreet, and court-martialed Porter for disobedience. Porter was convicted in 1863 but exonerated in 1878. The Second Battle of Bull Run was a sharp contrast to the first. Lasting two days of brutal, bloody battle, it was the worst the war had yet seen. To the Confederacy, the win was the crest of their northward-rushing movement, beginning their first invasion when Lee reached the Potomac River in Maryland on Sept. 3. To the Union, it was a devastating defeat, sending the North into a depression that was only remedied by the quick mobilization needed to repel the invasion of Maryland. The Second Manassas is a study of the ills that pervaded the Union high command in Virginia before U.S. Grant was chosen to head up the army. Popes incendiary personality and policies bared a deep schism among his officers, Congress and the North. He was relieved of his command on Sept. 12, 1862, and Lincoln moved him out to Minnesota to participate in the Dakota Wars with the Sioux. Sources Hennessy, John J. Return to Bull Run: The Campaign and Battle of Second Manassas. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1993. Print.Luebke, Peter C. Second Manassas Campaign. Encyclopedia Virginia. Virginia Foundation for the Humanities 2011. Web. Accessed April 13, 2018.Tompkins, Gilbert. The Unlucky Right Wing. The North American Review 167.504 (1898): 639–40. Print.Wert, Jeffry. Second Battle of Manassas: Union Major General John Pope Was No Match for Robert E. Lee. History.net. 1997 [2006]. Web. Accessed April 13, 2018.Zimm, John. This Wicked Rebellion: Wisconsin Civil War Soldiers Write Home. The Wisconsin Magazine of History 96.2 (2012): 24–27. Print.

Urbanization essay 2 Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Urbanization 2 - Essay Example and the modern, bustling city of Toronto, has earned it a tourist destination reputation not only among nearby Canadian provinces but also to people outside the national boundaries. Through the years, the attractions offered by The Beaches has developed it into an urbanized neighborhood characterized by its highly diverse cultural structure, moderately dense population and its proximity to the rest of the city. According to the 2006 statistics released by the Social Policy Analysis & Research Section in the Social Development, Finance and Administrative Division of the city of Toronto, the Beaches has a total population of 20, 420. Furthermore, the statistics show that a large component of its population belongs to the working age, viz., 25-64% (see Fig. 1). Thus, a visit to The Beaches, especially its more busy areas like the Queen Street East strip, during the daytime on weekends reveals this evident demographic constitution: couples in their mid-forties, and middle-aged individuals can be found packing its numerous restaurants, diners and cafes and skimming through shops and grocery stores. There is a comparatively lesser presence of teen-agers and the younger set except for the occasional little children and babies in strollers out on the side streets with adults hovering over and walking with them. As a matter of fact according to the same statistics, only 10% of the population belong s to the age group 15-24, while children from ages 0 to 14 constitute 17% of it. Compared to the rest of Toronto, The Beaches has lower number of individuals in the age group of 15-24, higher number of children from ages 0 to 4 and lower number of children in the 5-14 age group. On the other hand, individuals whose ages range from and up constitute just a mere 9% of The Beaches population lower by comparison to the rest of Toronto. Looking at the gender distribution in The Beaches neighborhood, no one sex group seems to dominate the neighborhood as there is an equal number,

Cybersecurity Incident Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Cybersecurity Incident - Research Paper Example Therefore, ensuring that all the stored data is secure and not accessible to everyone has become a prerequisite to almost everyone using the cyber systems to protect their data. The kinds of security incidents range from being minor invasion of a small virus into the computer networks to the major threat on the secrecy of the data available on the networks because of a much powerful and destructive virus attacking the softwares. In all these cases, strict check and reporting of the cyber incidents are mandatory (Shaw, 2006, p 461). One of such cyber security threats that have come up in the recent years includes the Stuxnet Virus. The Stuxnet Virus (Natarajan et al, 2011) was detected in the mid of 2010, this was a Windows computer worm that attacked industrial softwares and equipments. Computer worm is a computer program that produces various copies of itself, and through the help of the targeted computer network, it attacks other computers too in the same network (Natarajan et al, 2011). Computer worms can attack a number of computer softwares in the same network without any sort of user intermediation due to poor security systems of the targeted computers (Gingrich, 2011, pp 333). ... Moreover, Stuxnet was also the first computer breach to have a programmable logic controller (PLC) software root kit (Shaw, 2006) functioning with itself. The Stuxnet worm at first randomly attacks any software but then its specially designed pestware payload aids in aiming at only Siemens and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) softwares (Shaw, 2006). ‘Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)’ (Shaw, 2006) makes reference to industrial control systems that are computer systems, which look after plus regulate crucial industrial, infrastructural, or facility-based actions. Stuxnet corrupts programmable logic controller softwares by destroying the Step-7 software application (Shaw, 2006) operated to make schemes of the devices in operation. This hinders the softwares from working properly and affects the aimed softwares greatly. In contrast to most of the malware softwares, Stuxnet (Shaw, 2006) does not do much damage to the computers and networks that do not need the downright requirements of the targeted softwares that are set. Instead, it is technically designed software only attacks the networks and computers that stand up to the requirements configured into them. Although the Stuxnet worm attacks and destroys computers and networks without fail, it automatically makes itself inactive if the Siemens softwares are not detected on the invaded computers, this makes the attacking of the softwares very precise and only the sought after networks and computers and affected. Stuxnet worms (Shaw, 2006) can be apocalyptical for the infected computers; Stuxnet embodies self-protection shields within itself that curbs the attacked computers from transmitting the virus to more than three computers, moreover, it also weakens the security systems in

Basic Academic Writing Essay Example for Free

Basic Academic Writing Essay Making a Venn diagram or a chart can help you quickly and efficiently compare and contrast two or more things or ideas. To make a Venn diagram, simply draw some overlapping circles, one circle for each item you’re considering. In the central area where they overlap, list the traits the two items have in common. Example: 1. Write each topic name above one of the circles. List attributes or qualities of that topic in the circle, placing any shared qualities in the overlapping section. Be specific and use details. 2. Review the lists and identify three categories or aspects that describe these details. 3. Then choose one option (point by point or block method) to structure your essay. Comparison-contrast Thesis The thesis of your comparison/contrast paper is very important: it can help  you create a focused argument and give your reader a road map so she/he doesn’t get lost in the sea of points you are about to make. As in any paper, you will want to replace vague reports of your general topic (for example, â€Å"This paper will compare and contrast two pizza places,† or â€Å"Pepper’s and Amante are similar in some ways and different in others,† or â€Å"Pepper’s and Amante are similar in many ways, but they have one major difference†) with something more detailed and specific. For example, you might say, â€Å"Pepper’s and Amante have similar prices and ingredients, but their atmospheres and willingness to deliver set them apart.† Be careful, though—although this thesis is fairly specific and does propose a simple argument (that atmosphere and delivery make the two pizza places different), your instructor will often be looki ng for a bit more analysis. In this case, the obvious question is â€Å"So what? Why should anyone care that Pepper’s and Amante are different in this way?† One might also wonder why the writer chose those two particular pizza places to compare—why not Papa John’s, Dominos, or Pizza Hut? Again, thinking about the context the class provides may help you answer such questions and make a stronger argument. Here’s a revision of the thesis mentioned earlier: Pepper’s and Amante both offer a greater variety of ingredients than other Chapel Hill/Carrboro pizza places (and than any of the national chains), but the funky, lively atmosphere at Pepper’s makes it a better place to give visiting friends and family a taste of local culture. How do I know if my thesis is strong? If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following: Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than  making an argument. Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like â€Å"good† or â€Å"successful,† see if you could be more specific: why is something â€Å"good†; what specifically makes something â€Å"successful†? Does my thesis pass the â€Å"So what?† test? If a reader’s first response is, â€Å"So what?† then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue. Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s o.k. to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary. Does my thesis pass the â€Å"how and why?† test? If a reader’s first response is â€Å"how?† or â€Å"why?† your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning. Example of Comparison-Contrast Essay The Similarities and Differences between Public and Private Universities Malaysia has progressed in many areas since its independence. One significant area that all our past and present leaders have emphasized is education. The drastic growth in the number of universities over the past 20 years signifies this, together with the increasing demand for post-secondary education. Therefore, when public universities faced major challenges in operating within the limitations of the financial aid given by the government, the government not only encouraged private institutions to play a more active role in the higher education industry, but also supported these institutions in their efforts to increase their student intake. In 2006, there were 17 public universities and 21 private universities. Within a year, these numbers ballooned to 20 and 30 respectively. Today, students who wish to pursue higher education are spoilt for choices as there are plenty of courses offered in both public and private universities. However,  deciding on which higher education instit ution to go to, after completing secondary school, is a crucial undertaking. Students need to compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses of both types of institutions based on the courses available, the course fees charged and the competitiveness of these universities. Firstly, the types of courses that public and private universities offer vary significantly. Public institutions offer a whole range of courses that cover various aspects of science, business, social sciences and humanities in an ala-carte form. For example, the engineering programmes incorporate all aspects of engineering which include specialised areas such as marine, gas and aeronautical. Likewise, the business programmes in these institutions include various degrees in business administration like Islamic banking and insurance. In contrast, private universities only focus on programmes that have higher market value such as health sciences, religious studies, history and literature are not offered by these universities. This is especially so since they are profit-driven institutions. In fact, private institutions only specialise in certain fields, such as health sciences. University Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak, for example, specialises in medicine, pharmacy, nursi ng and radiotherapy, while Masterskill University College specialises in nursing, physiotherapy and environmental health, among others. With such vast choices available, students should choose which university to go to and what programme to enrol in wisely. Another difference between public and private universities lies in the course fees. Even though the roles and responsibilities of both types of institutions are similar, the way they are structured is different. Public universities charge rather modest fees as compared to private universities. The primary reason for this is that public universities are largely funded by the government, as opposed to private universities that are usually privately funded by shareholders. For a public university the high cost involved in managing one is borne by the government. In contrast, private universities manage their institutions through the shareholders’ funds and the revenue they earned. Private universities charge a high fee for their  courses as a means of increasing the revenue. The amount charged is normally very much higher compared to that charged by public universities, where the course fees are subsidised by the government. For instance, the fee to study medicine in University Malaya is about RM100 000 whereas in International Medical University (IMU), the fee is about RM350 000. However, since the income per capita of Malaysians has increased; many parents can afford to pay such expensive fees. Moreover, education has become a priority in Malaysia. The government is willing to support these private institutions by making student loans such as those offered by Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional (PTPTN) available for students. This helps to lessen not only parents’ burden, but also the shareholders’. Despite these differences, public and private universities are similar in being competitive in nature. They compete to be the best educational institution in their respective fields of study. Both types of institutions strive to stay abreast to sustain their position in the education industry. The benchmark has been raised very high so that every university has to be sensitive to their customers’ needs. Most universities have made wi-fi connections available around their campus and have upgraded facilities such as computer laboratories, hostels, cafeterias and transportation. Apart from that, these universities also recruit the best faculty staff to make the teaching and learning process an exciting journey. In addition, these universities advertise their annual graduation ceremonies and highlight their top academic achievers to maintain their name and ranking among the top universities. All these criteria have become the yardstick for universities to measure their reputation as world-class education institutions. There is paradigm shift today in the way parents and children regard education. Parents nowadays are sending their children to higher education institutions so that they could obtain a minimum university qualification. Students take up university courses not only to obtain wisdom and knowledge, but also to acquire the expertise and qualifications needed to compete in today’s knowledge-based economy. Thus, it is up to the students to compare the similarities and differences between a public university and a private  university before deciding which institution to pursue their tertiary education in.

The American Clock Essay -- Literary Analysis, Arthur Miller

Arthur Miller is a social dramatist who reflects his outlook on the US government, in many of his plays. The Great Depression had a lasting influence on him, which he portrays in â€Å"The American Clock†. Because he was so deeply impacted by the Depression and the government’s role in it, Miller mocks the idealism of the American dream in â€Å"Death of a Salesman† and â€Å"A View from the Bridge†. Due to his unjust condemnation as a Communist during the McCarthy Era he accuses the faulty court system as culpable. Miller creates John Proctor in, â€Å"The Crucible† as a victim during the Salem Witch Trials, to represent himself during the Red Scare. In his plays, Miller’s characters deal with injustices in order to express Miller’s view that American law is artificial. Miller exploits law as a common theme in his plays to express his outlook about its corruption. He portrays injustice done to the ‘common man and the confinement of America in â€Å"All My Sons† and â€Å"Death of a Salesman†. Miller reflects his political views in his works, by writing about individualism and his experiences. In many of his works, Arthur Miller expresses contempt for the government, which he holds responsible for his childhood poverty, during the Great Depression, and adult persecutions. The Great Depression had an immense impact on Arthur Miller, which he reflects in â€Å"The American Clock†, among other works. After the stock market crash of 1929, the Miller family’s financial comfort drastically changed. Lannone illustrates their extreme change in lifestyle, â€Å"The Depression struck the family hard†¦the garment business of Miller’s father began to decline†¦the family relocated to a dead-end street in the Gravesend neighborhood of Brooklyn, where their once-prosperous life became ... ...rays injustice done to the ‘common man and the confinement of America in â€Å"All My Sons†. In â€Å"All My Sons†, Joe attempts to defend his actions during the war, â€Å"Who worked for nothing in that war? It’s dollars and cents, war and peace†¦ half the goddamn country is gotta go if I go† (Miller 150). Here, Miller portrays his view that society is corrupt. This, he explains, is due to big businesses and the government’s negative influence and failure to aid small businesses, like his father’s during the Great Depression, which failed. Joe says, â€Å"That’s the way they do George. A little man makes a mistake and they hang him up by the thumbs. The big ones become the ambassadors† (Miller 411). The ‘big ones’ represent big businesses and the government, which is evident in Miller’s intentional use of the word ‘ambassador’ to create a governmental connotation.

Terrorism in the Old Testament

Stacy Norton 03 October, 2012 Old Testament Ballard Terrorism and the Old Testament Many terrorist organizations use their religious texts as justification for their acts of terrorism. People even go as far to say that God, as depicted in the Old Testament of the Christian Bible, encourages those acts as a way to defend their actions. While it is true that the Old Testament has evidence of God sending out his people to defend his word and his chosen people, it should not be taken as black and white as others would argue. It is important that we study the religious texts in their proper context.When these texts are not read in their proper textual and historical contexts they are manipulated and distorted. My God is a teacher of love and forgiveness and only uses violence as a last resort. This is more evident in the story of Moses and the release of the Israelite's from the Egyptians. The Israelite s were being held captive and tortured by the Egyptian Pharaoh and his people. They we re forced to spend their days as slaves and lived in deplorable conditions and were beaten routinely by the Egyptians. Moses upset that his people were being treated this way sought guidance from God.God agreed to help Moses free his people. God first sent Moses to the Pharaoh to ask kindly for his people's release. The Pharaoh refused. Moses even tried to convince the Pharaoh with the threat of curses being placed on his people. The Pharaoh refused again. Then, after the curses were released, the Pharaoh still held strong and would not release the Israelite s He was willing to have his own people suffer just because he did not want to give up his power over the Israelite s He only relented when the final curse was released and the first born of the Egyptians, including the Pharaoh's, were killed.The Egyptian Pharaoh was given multiple opportunities to prevent his own people's suffering but decided instead that his power was more important. Another part of the bible people like to c riticize is the book of Judges. Especially the story of Samson. Samson was a Nazarene leader with incredible strength. The Philistines wanted to capture him but could not find a way. Samson then fell in love with a woman named Delilah, who then tricked him into telling her the secret of his strength. He told her that if his hair was cut he would lose his power.When Samson fell asleep that night she cut his hair and let the Philistines in to capture him. They shackled him and gouged out his eyes and were planning on offering him up as a sacrifice to their deity. Samson cried out to God for help. He took out his revenge on the Philistines by basically, for lack of a better term, suicidal terrorism. He killed more people that day than in his whole life combined. In conclusion, the bible is not exempt from what some could deem as unflattering to the Christian faith. God does not try to deny that humanity is riddled with faults.But we must instead of looking at specific stories to justif y harming others think about the overall message. He only asks that we try to lead faithful lives. Treat each other kindly . Above all, we must keep his name holy. No where in the bible can we find where he tells us to set out and harm others just because we do not like their culture or religious viewpoints. He teaches tolerance. A most noteworthy verse that I like to remind myself often â€Å"Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. (Matthew 7:1-2)

Benecol: Raisio’s Global Nutriceutical Essay

Raisio, a Finnish grain and chemical company, is the proud owner of a product that has been deemed one of the ten most important nutritional innovations in the world (â€Å"Benecol ®,† 2010). This product is a unique compound composed of plant stanol esters and has been scientifically proven to help lower cholesterol levels in humans. With the prevalence of high cholesterol in the world population and the incidence of mortality associated with a high cholesterol level, it is no wonder that Raisio had a deep desire to share their product with the world. Raisio’s first introduction of Benecol margarine was in November of 1995 in Finland and, even though it cost substantially more than regular margarine, Benecol flew off of the shelves (Moffett & Howard, 1999). Seeing the potential of Benecol, Raisio formed a plan to take it globally. A successful global product roll-out requires an intricate knowledge of the market and careful planning and preparation of all necessary channels. According to the Global Minds Network, there are 10 critical steps to global launch success. They are; 1) evaluate local market opportunities, 2) create a global plan and roadmap, 3) design an effective launch process worldwide, 4) engage launch team across cultures, 5) communicate across functions and cultures, 6) test your message and image, 7) internationalize customer communications, 8) ensure timely and localized deliverables, 9) deliver effective support tools to ensure global readiness, and 10) enable local sales teams through training (â€Å"10 Steps to Global Launch Success,† n. d. ). As Raisio had no prior knowledge of dealing in foodstuffs, they required a global partner who could perform the 10 steps. Johnson & Johnson was to be this partner. Using their McNeil Consumer Products group, they proposed a comprehensive production, promotion, and distribution strategy (Moffett & Howard, 1999). This strategy clearly defined the roles that each partner would perform and be financially responsible for. Raisio would continue to maintain control of the stanol ester including the production of it and the supply of the raw material or plant sterol. Their input of capital was geared toward keeping the supply constant and Raisio was quick to go into joint ventures with DRT (France), Detsa S. A. (Chile), and Westvaco Corporation (U. S. ). Along with building sterol production plants in these countries, Raisio also built another one in Finland (Moffett & Howard, 1999). Raisio would buy the stanols that were produced at the various plants and then turn them into stanol ester using a process that they had patented. McNeil would then purchase stanol ester exclusively from Raisio, make the products containing the ester, and send these products to market and promote them. McNeil had budgeted over US$80 million for the promotional commitment (Moffett & Howard, 1999). Two other items that were covered in the agreement between Raisio and Johnson & Johnson pertained to payments that would be made to Raisio. Raisio would receive royalties on the sales of all products containing Benecol and they would also receive milestone payments. The milestone payments were an incentive for Raisio and an insurance policy for McNeil. If McNeil were to introduce Benecol products into major markets, they needed to make sure that there would be no break in the supply chain regarding the stanol ester because any lag in the production of the ester could have serious implications for McNeil. If Raisio could not keep up with the demand for stanol ester, there would be no payment. As for being an insurance policy, introducing a new product into the market carries with it enormous financial risk, if Raisio only receives a milestone payment if the launch is successful, McNeil has alleviated some of their risk by sharing it with Raisio. Financially, if McNeil was able to get beyond the FDA and other regulatory hurdles, Raisio stood to make considerable gains. This was welcome news as Benecol sales in Finland had gone fairly flat and had only accounted for 2% of the Raisio Group sales just two years after it had been introduced (Moffett & Howard, 1999). Under the agreement with McNeil, Raisio would receive returns in the short-term, on a continuing basis, and over the life of the agreement. In the short-term, Raisio would receive milestone payments for the use of their intellectual property. These payments would start in 1998 and go thru 2001. Their amounts would be (millions of Finnish marks, FIM) 110, 150, 100, and 50 respectively. These payments are an assured inflow of cash and incur no direct expense associated with them. On a continuing basis, Raisio holds the patent on stanol ester so they would be supplying all of the stanol ester to McNeil. The projected amount ranges from 1723 tons in 1999 to 6851 tons in 2005. This gives Raisio continued sales of the ester and because they are partnered with McNeil, Raisio would receive an acceptable sale price. Projected revenues from the sale of stanol ester, for the years 1998 thru 2005, are (millions of FIM) 0, 1, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, and 4. Over the life of the agreement, Raisio would be the recipient of any royalties from the sale of any products containing Benecol. The royalties are to be paid as a percentage of the retail product price. This is in the favor of Raisio because the royalties aren’t tied to profitability of the Benecol products. Royalty payments made to Raisio are projected to be (millions of FIM) 0, 108, 218, 279, 311, 340, 380, and 428 for the years 1998 thru 2005. In looking at the pro forma income statement, revenues from Benecol are predicted to rise from 2% of the Raisio Group sales to 8% by the end of 2005 thanks to the agreement with McNeil (Moffett & Howard, 1999). The strategy that Raisio needed was indeed partnering with a multinational company as time was of the essence due to possible competition entering the market first. Unilever, Forbes Medi-Tech, and pharmaceutical giant Novartis were on the heels of Raisio also trying to bring their products to market. Raisio had spent immense amounts of money and time formulating Benecol and doing clinical trials and did not want to lose out on any gains to be made (Moffett & Howard, 1999). Raisio was unfamiliar with this line of business so with the experience that Johnson & Johnson’s McNeil division had in the world of pharmaceuticals and consumer products; they were an excellent choice to assist in bringing Benecol to the global market. The only hurdles that now stood between Benecol and the world were regulatory issues. To bring Benecol to the market as quickly as possible would be difficult in Europe but even more difficult in the U. S. Of the three possible classifications that Benecol could be awarded by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), qualifying it as a pharmaceutical would mean substantially larger value-margins as Benecol was shown to have as much, if not more, efficacy then the cholesterol-reducing drugs on the market, however, this path also required the most time (Moffett & Howard, 1999).

Agoraphobia(Anxiety Disorder) essays

Agoraphobia(Anxiety Disorder) essays The term agoraphobia has been widely misunderstood. Its literal definition suggests a fear of "open spaces". However, this is an incomplete and misleading view. Agoraphobics are not necessarily afraid of open spaces. Rather, they are afraid of having panicky feelings, wherever. these fearful feelings may occur. For many, they happen at home, in houses of worship, or in crowded supermarkets, places that are certainly not "open". In fact, agoraphobia is a condition which develops when a person begins to avoid spaces or situations associated with anxiety. Typical "phobic situations" might include driving, shopping, crowded places, traveling, standing in line, being alone, meetings and social gatherings. Agoraphobia arises; from an internal anxiety condition that has become so intense that the suffering individual fears going anywhere or doing anything where these feelings of panic have repeatedly occurred before. Once the panic attacks have started, these episodes become the ongoing stress, even when other more obvious pressures have diminished. This sets up a "feedback condition" which generally leads to increased numbers of panic attacks and, for some people, an increase in the situations or events which can produce panicky feelings. Others experience fearful feelings continuously, more a feeling of overall. discomfort, rather than panic. A person may fear having anxiety attacks, "losing control", or embarrassing him/herself in such situations. Many people remain in a painful state of anxious anticipation because of these fears. Some become restricted or "housebound" while others function "normally" but with great difficulty, often attempting to hide their discomfort. Agoraphobia, then, is both a severe anxiety condition and a phobia, as well as a pattern of avoidant behavior. Individuals do not develop agoraphobia because they are unintelligent or "weak". In fact, the opposite is true. Studies have shown that agoraphobics a...

Free sample - Advanced research methods. translation missing

Advanced research methods. Advanced research methodsThe issues that these two articles raise are that one; culture plays a major role in influencing a decision of an individual. What could be morally right to a person from one culture could be immoral to another person from a different cultural background. The other issue is that different parts of brains vary in activities when it comes to moral impersonal, moral personal and non moral conditions. This kind of study can be classified as and experiment. This is because people who were being tested, when answering questions were undergoing brain scanning by use of FMRI. In this way, the researcher gets first class information as he is the one who watches the results come out (Joshua D. Greene, R. Brian Somerville, Leigh E. Nystrom, John M. Darley, Jonathan D. Cohen, 2001). One of the factor   that the researcher seem to control is that he is able to prove that his findings are true by demonstrating his experimental results. The other way he uses is to explain step by step and seems to have a convincing power. The hypothesis in the study is that certain parts of brain and culture are involved when it comes to make decisions concerning morals. The researcher hypothesis was correct. This is because most of the respondents’ answers and results of the brain scanning were in favor of the hypothesis. The brain scanning followed the laid down procedures (Sandra Blakeslee, 2005). When comparing the information in the New York Times and the short journal, the short journal has deeper information than the New York Times’. The key difference is that the researchers were working on the same issue but the researcher in the short journal went an extra step of doing a brain scan. The moral issue is that it is better to provide more reliable outcome. The information provided can be of great value to the society. This will help people to understand why people behave in a manner that is different to them. References Joshua D. Greene, R. Brian Somerville, Leigh E. Nystrom, John M. Darley, Jonathan D. Cohen (2001). An fMRI Investigation of Emotional Engagement in moral judgment. Science Sandra Blakeslee (2001, September 25). Watching How the Brain Works As It Weighs a Moral Dilemma. New York Times

Marketing of Service- R Cubed Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Marketing of Service- R Cubed Case Study - Essay Example Through internal marketing R Cubed has made promises with its service providers and encouraged them to offer best services to the clients. Human resource strategies provide the best way to the company to show concerns of the company towards employees. Theoretical human resource strategies which increase service quality by people include hiring the right people, developing the people, providing people needed support systems and retaining the best people. The underline belief based on which recruitment strategy of R Cubed was defined was to recruit people who knew what they were doing and had experience to achieve personal and company goals. Senior consultants from the market were hired and to reduce authoritative culture no ‘junior’ positions were defined. Moreover, the people who R Cubed hired to deal with the customers were not the researchers but they were the experienced managers who could better guide the customers by providing them excellent information. Various human resource strategies were introduced at R Cubed to keep the people motivated and to enhance their continuous development. The four months planning cycle was introduced in which all employees used to go off-site for review planning and discussion. Another aim of this strategy was to enhance employee participation and training them. R Cubed also conducted Ops meetings on weekly basis so that all employees could understand the operations of various departments Actually it was the belief of R Cubed’s owners that learning environment and organization structure allow individuals to flexibly set their own pace. Education budget for each employee from support staff to director level equivalent to 10 percent of their gross salary was set. At the same time to achieve company objectives, the education budget was given on â€Å"use it or lose it† basis. Moreover, with the exception of sales staff,

The supply chain of Walmart Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The supply chain of Walmart - Essay Example This expose elucidates on the effects of inventory management on the strategic goals of the supply chain. Lee and Billington (1997) noted that the â€Å"supply chain must ultimately be measured by its responsiveness to customers† (p. 67). In order to achieve this strategy in the supply chain, a companys inventory management must be efficient in delivering products to customers on a timely manner. While recognizing the importance of efficient inventory management, it is important to point out that a customer’s order may involve multiple lines of shipment or even one shipment of goods. In effect, proper management of a company’s inventory along the supply chain will help determine the speed of a companys responsiveness to its customer’s orders. On the other hand, the failure to institute proper inventory management systems in the supply chain will result to failures on the supply chain strategy of responsiveness to customers requirements. A company designs its supply chain strategy so that it can maintain a competitive edge over its competitions in the ever-increasing competitive business world. Lee and Billington (1997) noted the need by customers to know when their deliveries will arrive after they placed their orders (p. 67). In effect, the failure by companies to keep their customers posted on a regular basis regarding their deliveries, especially during delays, causes discontent, loss of goodwill, and confusion from the customers. Effectively, a company may lose its competitiveness due to its failure to manage inventory effectively along the supply chain especially in times of delay in delivery. Another key strategy by companies in their supply chains is the importance of maintaining low logistics costs, which will not have an effect on the supply chain’s responsiveness. As a result, inventory management will play a crucial role in achieving this goal by

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

Outline - Assignment Example The study goes on to discuss different products that are processed from organic Aloe Vera together with the health benefits associated with these products. There is a detailed review of the different farming associations that aide the farmers with the expertise and financial loans that they require to succeed in organic farming. The report is going to discuss and document the findings from extensive research on the organic farming practices that are used to grow Aloe Vera. This is because farmers around the world are investing heavily in organic farming, shunning the popular practice of using chemicals (Gage, 1996). This is evidenced in regions that have abundance of fertile soil that is rich in nutrients and a forest-free environment with a favourable climate that supports the growth of Aloe Vera all year long (Zan Min Jina, 2007). The Aloe Vera leaves are tested on a daily basis, a process which facilitates monitoring the health of the plant and ensures a bumper harvest at maturity (Coats, 1996). The report will also include a detailed review of the tests used to determine the health of the plants (M. Pol, 2007). The Aloe Vera leaves are harvested by hand, and the research will propose mechanized systems that can harvest these leaves; however, the report will also document the main reasons for the farmers’ choice to harvest the leaves by hand (Chattopadhyay, 1998). The Aloe Vera plant has also found a wide application in the manufacture of different products that include medicines, juices and skin jelly (Douglas Grindlay, 1986). The report will document the main buyers of this raw material, the returns that the farmers obtain by selling their produce and the impacts of these returns on their lives (Ricardo D. Valdez-Cepedab, 2006). The report will cover the challenges that the farmers face in their daily lives and how they overcome these challenges (Y. Saks, 1995). Organic farming has gained popularity globally and it is slowly replacing the use

The house of wisdom

The house of wisdom The House of Wisdom Case Study: Al-Khwarizmi. Abu Jafar Al-Mansur was taking no chances with his new imperial capital, Baghdad, for this was to be a city like no other. The second Abbasid caliph of the Muslims ordered his architects to mark the layout of the walls of his proposed city, a perfect circle, in keeping with the geometric teachings of the caliphs beloved Euclid, the great Greek mathematician who lived in the fourth and third centuries B.C, and was specialized in geometry (Hayhurst). Twelve years before work began on the capital, al-Mansurs brother Saffah completed the overthrow of the Umayyad dynasty, which has risen to power in the Muslim world three decades after the death of the Prophet Muhammed in 632. Saffah, sent his forces under the Abbasids distinctive black banners to hunt down the remaining members of the House of the Umayyads. The only significant figure to escape alive was Prince Abd al-Rahman, who fled to North Africa before going on to establish Western Caliphate in southern Spain. However, the victory o f the Abbasids, who found it politically possible to declare their direct lineage to the Prophet through his paternal uncle Abbas, was less a blood dispute between an aging dynasty and an ambitious pretender that it was an extensive cultural revolution throughout the Islamic lands. Al-Mansurs young court was virtually surrounded by established centers of Christian, Persian, and pagan learning; on the other hand, he had to go looking for one important element of what might be called Abbasid intellectual policy. At the caliphs invitation, an Indian scholarly delegation skilled in the movements of the starts arrived in Baghdad bearing Hindu scientific texts, an important jumping-off point for early Arab astronomy and mathematics. The Hindu sages understood how to solve equations based on trigonometric sine function and had devised smart ways to predict eclipses. The caliph ordered an official translation of the Hindu material into Arabic, part of an increasingly organized effort to absorb Persian and Indian knowledge. This same approach, accompanied by much original research was soon afterwards applied with the ancient learning of the Greeks (Lyons). The Umayyads laid the groundwork for scientific inquiry, but much of their early focus was on questions of Islamic law and the practice of medicine, a field in which they, like their successors, relied heavily on Christian physicians from Syria and Persia. The Abbasid caliphs delibrately pushed back these boundaries to make more room for the study of both philosophy and the hard sciences. According to the Arab historian Said al-Andalusi, who died in 1070, much of the credit for this goes to the founder of Baghdad:There was a surge in spirit and an awakening in intelligence. The first of this dynasty to cultivate science was the second caliph, Abu Jafar al-Mansur. He was, in addition to his profound knowledge of logic and law, very interested in philosophy and observational astronomy; he was fond of both and of the people who worked in these fields (Lyons). Another chronicler notes that the caliph directed numerous foreign translations into Arabic, including classic works of Hindu, Pe rsian, and Greek scholars, and set the direction for future research. Once in possession of these books, the public read and studied them avidly. (Lyons) To host the vast scale of work needed to study, translate, and store the huge volume of Persian and Greek texts, al-Mansur established a royal library modeled after those of the great Persian kings. Working space, administrative support, together with financial support were also required for the small army of scholars who take up these tasks and then build on them in creative and original ways. This was the origin of what became known as Bayt al Hikma or the House of Wisdom the collective institutional and imperial expression of early Abbasid intellectual ambition and official state policy. Overtime, the House of Wisdom came to comprise a translation bureau, a library and book repository, and an academy of scholars and intellectuals from across the empire. Its overriding function, however, was the safeguarding on invaluable knowledge, a fact reflected in other terms applied at times by arab historians to describe the project, such as the Treasury of the Books of Wisdom or simply the Treasury of Wisdom. Experts affiliated with the imperial institution staffed the caliphs observatory as well and took part in scientific experiments at his command. But the House of Wisdom also played an important role in the cultivation of Abbasid literary works (Lyons). Large sums of public funds were dedicated to the House of Wisdom and related projects of cultural and intellectual enrichment. Even diplomacy and on occasion war, was harnessed to the drive for greater knowledge. Abbasid delegations to the rival Byzantine court often conveyed requests for copies of valuable Greek texts, successfully securing works by Plato, Aristotle, Hippocrates, Galen, and Euclid; a copy of Ptolemys astronomical masterpiece soon became famous among the Arabs. The influential ninth-century scholar and translator Hunaun ibn Ishaq provides a taste of the length to which the Arab sages would go to obtain necessary material, in this case a missing medical manuscript: I myself searched with great zeal in quest of this book over Mesopotamia, all of Syria, Palestine and Egypt, until I came to Alexandria. I found nothing, except about half of it, in Damascus (Lyons). The caliphs and their officials were not the only ones behind this campaign. The effort became an integral feature of the Abbasid society itself and was supported enthusiastically by the social and political elite, from high born princes to merchants, bankers, and military officers. Even the concubines of the caliphs were known on occasion to contract with scholars for specialized translations. A former highwayman and childhood friend of Caliph al-Mamun, the seventh Abbasid ruler, turned his own facility for astrology into vast political power and wealth; he later fathered three children, known as the Sons of Musa, all of whom did original research in astronomy, mathematics, and engineering and generously funded other scholars and translators. Scholarships and other intellectual activities became an important means of social advancement, further breaking down what remained of the Arabs traditional hierarchy. They also encouraged competition for patronage among scholars from different traditions, primarily Arab and Persian, a phenomenon that ensured that high quality scientific and literary work would be carried out for centuries. The most skilled translator could earn huge sums of their work one was reputed to have been paid the weight of each completed manuscript in gold or rise to high office on the strength of their intellectual accomplishments. Without this institutional support, the considerable talents of the diverse scholars now under Abbasid rule would never have united into a powerful intellectual movement. Over the course of 150 years, the Arabs translated all available Greek books of science and philosophy. Arabic replaced Greek as the universal language of scientific inquiry. Higher education became increasingly organized in the early ninth century, and most major Muslim cities featured some type of university. One such institution, al-Azhar mosque complex in Cairo, has been the seat of uninterrupted instruction for more than one thousand years. Scholars traveled great distances to study with the most celebrated masters, dotted throughout the empire. Travel, and the accompanying exposure to new experiences and new ways of thinking, was an important element of a scholars education in a society that retained great reverence for the spoken word; other than face-to-face, how else could a learned man meet his colleagues and collect and debate their ideas? No one did more to advance the latest trends and then explain and popularize the results than the mathematician and astronomer Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi. Born around 783, al-Khwarizmi was able to take full advantage of the social mobility and intellectual meritocracy that characterized early Abbasid scholarly life in Baghdad. Little is known of his exact origins, although his name suggests that he or his family originally came from Khwarazm. Al-Khwarizmis Muslim faith is made clear by the pious prefaces to some of his works, but his descendants may have been Zoroastrians. Al-Khwarizmis years of greatest productivity corresponded with the reigns of the Abbasid caliph Al-Mamun and his two successors Al-Mutasem and Al-Wathiq. As a prominent researcher attached to al-Mamuns House of Wisdom, al-Khwarizmi went on to attain rare heights in such disciplines as astronomy, arithmetic, and algebra. He was considered at the head of the institution (Sayili). Al-Khwarizmi is known to be the author of the zij, a book containing astronomical tables. His first two tables were known as the Sindhind. The zij provided the Muslims with all the tools needed to locate the positions of the sun, the moon, and the five visible planets. The zij was used to a great extent to regulate the five daily prayers and to mark the crescent moon which determines the start of the lunar month. Al-Khwarizmis Arabic text has been lost, but it survives in 12th century Latin translation. There exists the proof that the so-called Arabic numerals were conveyed to the West. For Muslims, The Book of Addition and Subtraction explained fully a system that was already in some use by the early ninth century, and within a little more than 100 years it had led to the discovery of decimal fractions. Actually, the book was called the Book of Addition and Subtraction to the Hindu Calculations, and this reveals that Muslims were open to many civilizations and they built their knowl edge upon older civilizations and scientific discoveries. The Indians were the first to come up with the decimal place system of nine numerals and zero, apparently the system that we use today. Al-Khwarizmi used decimal fractions to find the roots of numbers and later to calculate the value of Pi the ratio of a circle to its radius, correctly to a notable sixteen decimal places (Brezina). Nothing could reveal the real power and ability of Al-Khwarizmi more than his short work on algebra. The Book of Restoring and Balancing (Kitab al-jabr wal-muqabala) was the perfect guide and also the perfect gift to caliph al-Mamun and the Muslim society. The book was considered the simplest and most useful in arithmetic for the day-to-day matters. The book was referred to in cases of inheritance, legacies, trade, law-suits, and dealings among members of the society. Also, the book was consulted where measuring of lands, digging of canals, geometrical computations and other subjects were concerned. To fit with the Islamic rules of islam, Al-Khwarizmi included a simple algebraic operation that solves the inheritance problem for any size assets. Besides, the calculation of the Zakat, the annual religious tax, was included in the guide (Lyons). South Korea and Taiwan export more manufactured goods in two days than Egypt in a year; 35% of Cairenes live in slums; in Saudi Arabia, up to 30% of people live in poverty. Since 1950 the Arab population has risen from 79m to 327m, but real wages and productivity have barely moved since 1970. Intellectual life is atrophying. More books are translated into Spanish in a year than have been translated into Arabic in the past 1,000, states the UNs Arab Human Development Report. The authors trace much of the regions problems back to Arab societys methods of child-rearing (the authoritarian accompanied by the overprotective) which, they argue, affects how the child thinks by suppressing questioning, exploration and initiative. All of which perfectly suits the Arab worlds leaders and corrupt bureaucratic elites. Should we care? Very much so. Already, poor economic opportunities, endemic corruption, education based on rote learning, state-sponsored Jew hatred, soaring youth populations and unemployment are a recipe for social catastrophe. Add the rise of radical Islam and the growth of Al-Qaeda and the mix becomes something explosive. Paradoxically, the answer to the Arab worlds future lies in its past. A millennia ago Arab and Muslim thinkers, writers, scientists and doctors led an intellectual revolution that is still shaping our world. Without the pioneering work of the 9thcentury mathematician known as al-Khwarizmi, for example, thered probably be no comput ers. The legacies of Baghdads House of Wisdom and Al-Andalus prove there are no contradictions between Islam and intellectual innovation, the motor of any dynamic society. The answer to the Arab worlds problems, say a growing number of modern Islamic thinkers and scholars, can be found in ijtihad. The word shares a root with jihad, meaning holy war or struggle. Jihad nowadays is often interpreted to mean military struggle in Iraq or Palestine, or even suicide bombing. But jihad also means the spiritual and intellectual struggle for knowledge, for self-enlightenment.