Employability and Consulting Skills - reflective report Essay

Employability and Consulting Skills - reflective report - Essay Example 6). If urgent feedback from the team members was required, I would have used face to face communication as it is more sufficient and effective. The second important step is to distribute the meeting agenda and the goals of the meeting in advance. As a team leader, I decided to come up with the meeting structure which will clearly stipulate the expected result from the meeting and ways that will be used to make the meeting more productive. Stating the goals of a meeting helps the individuals whom are expected to attend the meeting to know what is expected of them (Enduring Ideas: The 7-S Framework Podcast 2008, p. 8). This will be achieved by the team leader writing the agenda. The third step that a team leader should consider while planning for a meeting to own the meeting and keeping the meeting moving ahead. Productive meetings are as a result of good leadership. As the team leader taking control of the meeting and expressing my intention of making the meeting to keep on moving with successful, timely and with relevant discussions was important. The meeting leader should show the other team members that he values their time during the discussion. He can do this by making sure that there is a clock or a timer that is visible to all those engaged in the meeting (Cross et al 2006, p. 11). The leader should also ensure that the schedule is maintained by ensuring that the topic of discussion is well maintained. So as to get some constructive and positive inputs from the meeting, two way communications was important to me as it helped in raising honest inputs from every team member. Everyone was also given equal opportunity to express their views and to be heard. It was also important for me to avoid emphasizing on my view as this will prevent the group consensus. Failure to build up a group consensus can make the team

Small Package Delivery Industry Essay Example for Free

Small Package Delivery Industry Essay The small package express delivery industry is a complex competitive environment. The â€Å"Porter’s five forces† combined give the competing companies the possibility to make profits with a low risk of entry and a weak bargaining power of suppliers. The intense rivalry between them and the strong bargaining power of buyers has a negative impact over the prices, which can lower the companies’ revenues. The most interesting thing about this case was the struggle of the global delivery company DHL, to enter the United States market. It was interesting to see how a big company could spend an enormous amount of money to purchase all the equipment necessary for a distribution system, and yet not being able to succeed in gaining the market share. Risk of entry by potential competitors In the small package express delivery industry the barriers to entry are high which makes the risk of entry by potential competitors a weak force. The economies of scale in this industry are attained by only three companies, FedEx, UPS and DHL. They developed complex air and ground delivery networks, which are expensive to establish for new entrants; this gives the leading firms an absolute cost advantage in the industry. DHL, a huge name in the European delivery market, is an example of failure in this aspect. After buying Airborne Express for $1 billion and spending $1. 5 billion upgrading it, DHL was forced to get out of the market because of the losses it encountered during 5 years of struggling. Following this event the, North American express delivery industry became dominated by FedEx and UPS. One major element of the barriers to entry is the government regulations. Federal Express waited three years to get the right to fly planes from Memphis to Tokyo, and it got restricted to only 70 lbs per package. Tough government regulations make it difficult for new companies to enter the industry or in different markets, and it can increase the costs of operations as well. When the force of risk of entry of potential competitors is weak, the profitability of the companies that are already competing within the industry increase. Rivalry among established companies The rivalry among established companies is very strong in the small package express industry. The industry is consolidated, dominated by three large companies, FedEx and UPS in the US and DHL in Europe, which are interdependent. Consolidated industry increase rivalry among established firms because one company’s competitive action, such as a change in price, directly affect the market share of its rivals. This can lead to price war, which means that one company follows suit when the other companies lowers the prices. In 1983, UPS offered next-day air service at half a price of its competitors. In order to keep up, Federal Express followed and cut the prices to match UPS prices. This lead to a price war among competitors, which diminished profitability of the companies competing in this consolidated industry. Bargaining power of buyers The bargaining power of buyers in this industry is a strong force. When the buyers purchase in large quantities, they are able to bargain and reduce the prices. An example discussed in the case is Xerox, which negotiated a lower price for express delivery of its products because of the high volume of the orders and was able to get as much as 60% discounts. The strong force of bargaining power of buyers in the small packages express delivery industry leads to lower prices and less profitability. Bargaining power of suppliers The bargaining power of suppliers in the small package express industry is weak. One example discussed in the case is the acquisition of the retail stores Mail Boxes Etc by UPS, which allowed UPS to have a direct contact with the consumers who needed its services. Another example is the Federal Express purchase of Flying Tigers, an international supplier with which Federal Express was working with at that time. This allowed the package express company to reduce the cost of its operations and build a global air express network. By eliminating the direct suppliers with the vertically integrated strategy, the company gains more profits and control. This weak force in the bargaining power of suppliers allow for greater profits for the companies operating within the industry. Substitute products The threats of substitutes in the small package express delivery industry within US and global market is neutral. The evolution of technology over the past few decades has produced several substitute products to small package delivery. The first substitute that was introduces was the fax machines, which made the transfer of documents easier and faster. The internet, a big substitute of the document delivery via email, but it also created online shopping which led to increased demand of the small package delivery industry. This gave the industry the opportunity to gain additional profits and replace the profits lost through the innovation of the fax and email. Conclusions and recommendations In the small package delivery industry, the established companies will continue to play an important role within the industry and their profits will increase, because of the weak bargaining power of suppliers and the high barriers of entry by potential competitors. In a consolidated industry like the one presented in this case, the strong rivalry among established companies and the strong bargaining power of the buyers can lead to profitability losses.

Education and Awareness Will Promote Environmental Justice Essay

Education and Awareness Will Promote Environmental Justice The goals of this environmental justice conference are stated simply: firstly, to explore whether racial minorities and the poor are being environmentally victimized, and secondly, to evaluate public policies that promote environmental fairness. Each speaker provided insight and information from their respective area of expertise. Led by keynote speaker Dr. Bunyan Bryant, they drew upon the realms of academic investigation, government and public policy, sociology, healthcare, and philosophy to unite the environmental movement with the quest for social justice. After absorbing so much information concerning the current state of environmental justice, one leaves the conference with an overwhelming sense of responsibility to promote awareness and fairness when dealing with issues of environmental quality. Dr. Bunyan Bryant of the University of Michigan began by addressing the history, issues, dilemmas, and central premises of the environmental justice movement. Dr. Bryant distinguishes environmental racism, or the targeting of certain communities for undesirable land use, from environmental equity. The movement is characterized by a complexity of cultural norms, rules, regulations, behaviors, values, policies, and decisions. These influences either lead to the promotion of sustainable communities and the realization of high potentials, or contribute to the degradation of environments by impeding communities from enjoying social, political, and environmental health. Dr. Bryant notes the importance of key events, ranging from the effects of the 1990 Michigan Conference to the earlier convergence of the civil rights and environmental movements around the time of the as... ...s from diverse areas in order to achieve an integrated perspective of the issues, successes, and common goals characterizing the environmental justice movement. The conference was bound together by a common message - the need for education and awareness of issues of environmental quality. Environmental justice corresponds directly to human health and quality of life throughout the world. Regardless of whether or not an environmental hazard exists in one's community or backyard, it is necessary to be informed of the issues that affect us all. The goals of the conference were thus met by clarifying that environmental injustice is indeed occurring, thereby instilling in each participant the need for continued education and involvement in the quest for safe and healthy environments for all. This is the way in which environmental justice will prevail in future societies.

History of English Literature :: Literature Language Plays Essays

History of English Literature I. INTRODUCTION English literature, literature written in English since c.1450 by the inhabitants of the British Isles; it was during the 15th cent. that the English language acquired much of its modern form. II. The Tudors and the Elizabethan Age The beginning of the Tudor dynasty coincided with the first dissemination of printed matter. William Caxton's press was established in 1476, only nine years before the beginning of Henry VII's reign. Caxton's achievement encouraged writing of all kinds and also influenced the standardization of the English language. The early Tudor period, particularly the reign of Henry VIII, was marked by a break with the Roman Catholic Church and a weakening of feudal ties, which brought about a vast increase in the power of the monarchy. Stronger political relationships with the Continent were also developed, increasing England's exposure to Renaissance culture. Humanism became the most important force in English literary and intellectual life, both in its narrow sense—the study and imitation of the Latin classics—and in its broad sense—the affirmation of the secular, in addition to the otherworldly, concerns of people. These forces produced during the reign (1558–1603) of Elizabeth I one of the most fruitful eras in literary history. The energy of England's writers matched that of its mariners and merchants. Accounts by men such as Richard Hakluyt, Samuel Purchas, and Sir Walter Raleigh were eagerly read. The activities and literature of the Elizabethans reflected a new nationalism, which expressed itself also in the works of chroniclers (John Stow, Raphael Holinshed, and others), historians, and translators and even in political and religious tracts. A myriad of new genres, themes, and ideas were incorporated into English literature. Italian poetic forms, especially the sonnet, became models for English poets. Sir Thomas Wyatt was the most successful sonneteer among early Tudor poets, and was, with Henry Howard, earl of Surrey, a seminal influence. Tottel's Miscellany (1557) was the first and most popular of many collections of experimental poetry by different, often anonymous, hands. A common goal of these poets was to make English as flexible a poetic instrument as Italian. Among the more prominent of this group were Thomas Churchyard, George Gascoigne, and Edward de Vere, earl of Oxford. An ambitious and influential work was A Mirror for Magistrates (1559), a historical verse narrative by several poets that updated the medieval view of history and the morals to be drawn from it. The poet who best synthesized the ideas and tendencies of the English Renaissance was Edmund Spenser.

Value Proposition of Gym/Spa Business

A business endeavor like a gym and spa is a rewarding one, due to the fact that you are not only doing business but you are doing people a favor as well. What is nice about a proposed gym/spa business that it complements each other, a spa will always complement to a spa, because it provides the clients a chance to relax after a rigorous workout. Aside from that, the owner of such business can have lots of opportunities the bodybuilding and fitness industry has its complementary products as well. Among these are food supplements that people place a premium nowadays. This can fuel the revenues of the business as well. On the other hand, the spa will draw ladies and metrosexuals who are put a premium on wellness services. The spa will complement the gym and it is evident among prominent gyms with their own spa services. Pricing and Advertising The gym/spa will get athletes and sports celebrities as their endorsers. This will enable the gym/spa to draw clients which will be motivated to enroll in the gym/spa. The payment will be on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis. This will give potential clients the option to enroll at the gym/spa based on their income. Market Niche of a Gym/Spa Business A slogan that can be used with this business is â€Å"Health is Wellness, The Rest Would be for The Best!† The gym/spa business will hold a firm position on its market niche because it will draw people from all walks of life that makes this business worthwhile and lucrative.   Mostly the people who are stressed-out from work will draw your attention. It is evident among gyms like Fitness First and Gold’s Gym who have their own spa amenities inside the gym. Another thing is that, you can engage into this business with some of your friends, so as to draw a variety of crowd that will eventually be your regular clients. SWOT Analysis Strengths  § The gym/spa showcases a wide variety of state of the art amenities and equipment that will promote fitness.  § It has other amenities aside from the usual gym/spa that will augment the gym/spa itself. Weaknesses  § The gym/spa will have a hard time enticing blue collar workers because of its massive advertising using celebrities.  § It is a hindrance that there would be a possibility that the gym/spa can only accommodate a certain number of clients inside the vicinity. Opportunities  § The gym/spa will have potential consignments with other business establishments, such as nutritional supplement shops that will augment the advertising of the gym spa.  § The gym/spa can make their service 24 hours a day because there are people’s work shifts vary. Threats  § The gym/spa is deemed to get a demand for the increase in payments if ever client enrolment will be at a low. Nearby gyms like those within the neighborhood will be a petty yet potential com

What to Do When Your Work Is Stolen

What to Do When Your Work Is Stolen The unthinkable happens. Your work is published without your knowledge, consent or compensation. Whether it is large slushpiles, lack of time, memory lapses or non-existent ethics, theres no excuse for unprofessionalism or deceit. If the publication gets away with it once, they may do it again! Sure, you challenge them. You take the moral high ground, argue facts logically, point out copyrights, escalate to publishers or web domain owners; but your remonstrations fall on deaf ears. When editors dont remedy the situation early and sufficiently, heres how you can take action. Publicize Reputations carry businesses, but are fragile. Social media is a powerful tool, but an untamed beast. Nothing travels faster than bad news. Use Facebook, Twitter, blogs, or your own mailing lists of writers/editors/sources to make noise. However, before you bandy about anyones good name, remember publicity is a two-way street. Choose your words carefully. Dont post on a public forum in a passion. Defamation charges can be difficult to defend, and the last thing you need is to have your life stolen too. Invoice anyway What have you got to lose? Invoicing a publication that has published your work without permission sends a clear message that you are a professional who knows the industry. PayPal has a professional template and a reminder system. Make your invoice due on receipt and clearly state terms and conditions including penalties for delayed payments. Join forces Yours may not be a solitary incident. Ask around. Someone may have experience dealing with the publications idiosyncrasies and may be able to advise you. Hit them where it hurts Magazines exist for sales. Contact the retail outlets where the magazine is sold and inform them of the transgression. They may stop stocking it. Go to court Before you recourse to judiciary as your last resort, consider: a) Money: Lawyers fees are ruinous. Unless you claim Donald Trump as a relation or have engaged a lawyer to work pro bono, think twice. b) Time: Court battles can drag on for years. You may end up resigning your great-grandchildren to life revolving around courthouse working hours. c) Effort: Meetings, filing forms, understanding the law, dealing with red tape there are an awful lot of legal hoops to jump through that drain energy. Will your court battle drain you of the sheer physical stamina to attend your daughters graduation ceremony, steal the mental inclination to host that long-overdue dinner party, rob you of the emotional wherewithal to cope with a friends illness? d) Scandal: Court cases are open affairs. You may think truth and public interest are on your side, but theres no guarantee how the case will develop. Your reputation may emerge out of the ordeal smelling like a bouquet of roses, or it may crawl out looking like something the cat dragged in. Can you live with the local garbage-man and that cute shop assistant at your favorite boutique knowing all about your dirty laundry? e) Practicalities: If you live in the US and the publication is based in Singapore, how do you propose to duel? So weigh pros and cons, calculate cost versus benefit and take action. Or finally, write off the loss and move on. Its great to be principled and fight for fairness. Its also natural to feel to want to get even. But is the article worth the tumult? If not, consider it an occupational hazard and move on. Lesson learned. Whatever you do, hope for the best and be prepared for the worst. Remain positive, proactive, and dont stop writing. As freelancer Judee Fong says, Thieves steal only from the best! 🙂 ID: 181074Â © Abdone | Dreamstime Stock Photos

The 14 College Interview Questions You Must Prepare For

The 14 College Interview Questions You Must Prepare For SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips The college interview process can be nerve-racking. This interview gives the college you're applying to another opportunity to evaluate you and help determine whether or not to offer you admission. However, your college interviews won't be nearly as scary if you know what to expect. In this article, I give you the 14 college interview questions you absolutely must prepare for. I explain why you're being asked these questions and how to provide greatanswers. Furthermore, I offer advice onhow to prepare for your interviews so that when the time comes, you'll be ready to ace them. A Short Introduction to College Interviews A college interview provides a college with an opportunity to give you more information about the school and answer any questions. In addition, the interview gives the college a chanceto learn more about you, your interests, and how you’ll be able to contribute to the school. Very few colleges require interviews, although a fair number offer optional or recommended ones. These are typically highly selective or small private colleges, such asColumbia, Occidental, and Bates.Most large public universities don’t even offer interviews because there are simply too many applicants. Check a college’s website or contact its admissions office to determine whether interviews are offered and how to schedule one.Interviews can be on-campus, usually with an admissions representative, or off-campus near where you live, usually with an alumnus of the college. If you have the option of getting interviewed, do it.It’s to your benefit to take advantage of an opportunity to interview because it shows the school that you’re genuinely interested in attending. And demonstrating interest can greatly help your chances of admission. Finally, the interview gives the school another chance to get to know you outside of what’s in your application. Try not to stress about the interview too much, though. As long as you’re polite, attentive, and prepared, it should only help your chances of getting accepted. The interview will also give you an opportunity to learn more about the school,and help you decidewhether or not it might be a good fit for you. souvenirsofcanada/Flickr Want to build the best possible college application? We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in. The 14 Most Common College Interview Questions The questions I’m listing and explaining were either referenced inmultiple admissions websites andinterview advice guides, or are general enough that you’ll be able to answer a number of similarquestions by preparing for them. Below, I provide you with eachquestion. I then explain why colleges are asking it, what they're looking for in a response, and how you can prepare for the question ahead of time. Question 1: Tell Me About Yourself This isn’t even actually a question, but it’s something you might be asked to do in an interview. Because it’s so general, you might have trouble figuring out where to begin. Why they're asking this: Colleges are asking you to do this because they really do want to know more about you. That's one of the primary purposes of the interview, after all! What they're looking for:You need to paint a unique portrait of who you are to separate yourself from other applicants. Avoidclichà ©sor descriptions that would be too common. For example, don’t just say you’re hardworking- explain what has driven you to become as diligent as you are and why you feel it is important. How to prepare:Rehearse answering this question. Try talking about your passions, hobbies, and interests. You can discuss what inspires you or what your friends like about you. Be specific. Again, you want to make yourself memorable. Question 2:Why Are You Interested In This College? Why they're asking this:This is an important question and one you should definitely prepare for, since colleges want to see that you’re taking the application process seriously and have a legitimate interest in attending the school. What they're looking for:Talk about your interest in a major or academic program, the cultural values of the school, or extracurricular activities that drew you to the college. Again, be thorough and specific.Don’t talk about prestige or rankings, and don't say you just want to go there because it’s close to home; none of this shows genuine interest in this specific college! How to prepare:To answer this question well, you'll need toconduct extensive college research before the interview.You should be able to cite specifics when answering this question. Follow the same advice as if you were writing the answer to this question for your application essay. Bart Everson/Flickr Question 3:Why Do You Want to Major in _____? If you've indicated that you want to major in a certain subject, you might be asked why you’re interested in that particular field. Why they're asking this:Colleges are interested in your academic goals and want to see that you’re academically inclined. What they're looking for:Talk about why a certain subject inspires you or why you're passionate about it. Don’t say that you’re pursuing a certain major to make a lot of money or have job security.That doesn’t demonstrate genuine academic interest; it just makes you seem shallow. How to prepare: Think deeply about why you want to pursue a specific major.Why do you find it fascinating? What experiences provoked your interest in the subject? How will the major enable you to reach your future professional goals? Question 4: What Are YourAcademic Strengths? Why they're asking this:In an effort to get to know you as a student, colleges are interested in getting your perspective on where you excel academically. What they're looking for:Don’t make this answer too short. Don’t just say, "I’m good at science." When discussing your academic strengths, explain how you’ve capitalized on your strengths.If you’re an excellent writer, for example, how have you used your writing skills to excel in school? How do you plan on continuing to use your strengths? How to prepare:Make sure you know your academic strengths. You should be able to explain how you recognized your strengths, how you're currently using them, and how you plan to use them in the future. Question 5:What Are Your Academic Weaknesses? How Have You Addressed Them? Whythey're asking this:Colleges want to admit good students, but they’re aware everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Colleges want to see that you have the persistence and work ethic to succeed despite your challenges. What they're looking for: Schools want students who can demonstrate theirability to confront and overcome challenges.Try revealing strategies or specific approaches you’ve taken to improve your academic weaknesses. You could also tell a specific story about how you managed to do well in a subject that was especially difficult for you. How to prepare: Be aware of your academic weaknesses and how you've addressed them. It's not good to say that you don't have any weaknesses. That's not very believable, and you'll come off as arrogant. Question 6:What Do You Plan to Contribute to This School? Why they're asking this:Colleges want to admit students who will make positive contributions to campus and academic life. Essentially, they’re looking for students who will make the school better. What they're looking for: In short, specifics.Don’t limit your answer to vaguepositive traits. Don’t just say you’ll contribute a good work ethic and a regard for others.Is there specific research you wish to pursue? Do you want to have a leadership position in an extracurricular activity? Are there specific community service projects you want to do?How will your presence on campus and in the classroom make a difference? How to prepare: Know the specific contributions you want to make to the school. Identify your college goals as well as the activities you want to pursue while you're in college. Question 7:What Do You Expect to Be Doing 10 Years From Now? Why they're asking this: Just to set the record straight, you don’t need to have your entire future figured out. Colleges understand that you probably won’t have everything decided and your plans are likely to change. What they do want isstudents with direction. What they're looking for: Collegeswant students who are motivated to achieve their goals.The bad, general answer is to only say you expect to have a fulfilling career and be making a positive impact on the world.What are some specific activities you’d like to do? How do you plan on impacting the world?You don’t have to limit your plans to professional goals. Do you want to take your mom on a vacation? Or have weekly gatherings with your best friends from high school? How to prepare: You can write down some detailed notes answering this question.Paint a picture of the life you want to have in 10 years. That picture should reveal your uniqueness. Question 8:What Would You Change About Your High School? Why they're asking this:With this question, colleges are looking for your ability to identify problems and get a better understanding of what you’re looking for in a school. By learning what you’d change, they get a chance to learn more about what matters to you. What they're looking for: Colleges want a thoughtful response. Be specific and respectful. Don’t say, "I’d get better teachers." Say that you’d allocate more resources to the music department so that more students can have the opportunity to learn how to play new instruments. Discuss how learning an instrument helped you, and describe the current state of the music department.Try to make it clear that you want to improve your school to benefit the personal and academic growth of allof its students. How to prepare: Think about the strengths and weaknesses of your high school. What are some specific problems it has? What are the consequences of those problems? What steps would you take to make improvements? Shouldn't other kids have the opportunity to rock out like this? (Joe Lewis/Flickr) Want to build the best possible college application? We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in. Question 9:Whom Do You Most Admire? Why they're asking this:From this question, colleges can get a sense of your values.If the person you most admire is Justin Bieber, for example, colleges might wonder about your priorities. What they're looking for:Don’t limit your answer just to naming the person. Why do you admire that person?For instance, many people say that the person they most admire is a parent. But what specifically has that parent done that you admire so much? In short, don’t forget the details. How to prepare: Think deeply about your response to this question. If the person you admire is somebody you know, practice by giving your answer to that person. You'll know you've answered the question well if you're rewarded with a hug or even a few tears from your audience. Question 10:What Is Your Favorite Book? Why they're asking this:This question is designed to help schools learn more about your interests. Colleges also probably want to make surethat you actually read books. What they're looking for:Don't limityour answer to the name of abook; think about why you like the book so much. How did it inspire you? Did a particular character resonate with you? Did you learn something from this book that influenced your opinions or behavior? Did this book help shape your perspective or values? How to prepare:Really think about books you've read that you connected with and why. I've also seen similar questions asking about a news article you recently read, so try to stay up to date with the news, too! Question 11:Why Do You Want to Go to College? Why they're asking this:For this question, schools are trying to understand why you’re motivated to pursue higher education. What they're looking for: Collegeswant to see you have clear goals you’re trying to accomplish by attending college.Obviously, they don’t want to hear that you want to go to college because your parents are making you or so you can attend wild parties. In your answer, emphasize how college will allow you to pursue your passions, aid in your personal development, and enable you to fulfill your future goals.Be specific. What are your passions and goals? How will college give you an opportunity to pursue these passions? What college activities will increase your awareness and facilitate your intellectual and emotional growth? How to prepare:For ideas, check out the pros in my article aboutif you should go to college. Steven Depolo/Flickr Question 12:What Do You Like to Do for Fun? Why they're asking this:This question is designed to get a better sense of your general interests and overall personality. What they're looking for:Your answer doesn’t only have to include activities that are academic. After all, you probably wouldn’t be believed if you said all you do for fun is read science textbooks and do math problems. If some of what you do for fun is intellectual, though, explain why you find these activities fun. Finally,try to avoid general answers such as "hang out with friends." How to prepare:You shouldn't have to prepare much for this question since I assume you already know what you like to do for fun. However, spend some time thinking about why you enjoy these activities. Question 13:What Is an Obstacle You've Faced and How Did You Get Through It? Why they're asking this:Colleges want to know if you've faced (and overcome) any significant challenges in your life. They also want to see that you’re persistent and willing to work hard in order to overcome these obstacles. What they're looking for:It’s fine if you haven’t had some awful, incredibly difficult obstacle in your life. Think of a time when you faced a problem that challenged you, and you put ina lot of effort to solve it.Your obstacle could be related to your home life, school, or an extracurricular activity. In your response, explain how the obstacle challenged you and emphasize what exactly you did to overcome it. How to prepare: Think of a significant challenge you've had in your life and how you dealt with it. What did you learn from the problem? How did you solve it? Did it change or influence the way you address similar problems? Question 14:What Makes You Unique? Why they're asking this:This question is essentially what all the other questions above are meant to determine. It's another general question that's often difficult to answer. We are all unique, but it can be hard to put into words exactly what separates you from other people. What they're looking for: Schools ask this question because theywant to get to know you better. You can discuss a trait or multiple traits you possess. Give examples and stories that demonstrate these qualities.Do you have any uncommon interests or goals? Is your background very unique? How to prepare:I recommend doing some serious brainstorming to address this question. Write out specific attributes and anecdotes you can share that demonstrate your uniqueness. When do you feel most comfortable? What makes you the proudest? What makes you special? How to Prepare for College InterviewQuestions For each of these questions, I recommend jotting down some notes so that you can remember key points or details.Don’t try to completely write out your answers and memorize them. The way you speak in an interview is supposed to appear conversational and not rehearsed. Also, if you try to memorize your answers and forget your script during the interview, you’ll end up looking confused and unsure of yourself. Practice your responses by having somebody ask you these questions and then answering them as if you were actually in the interview.Remember that you want to be as specific and detailed as possible.Learn to separate yourself from all the other applicants being interviewed. For some of these questions, it'll be helpful to review your personal statement.Your personal statement likely has some details or stories you can incorporate intosome of your answers. How Do You Answer Questions You Didn't Prepare For? Undoubtedly, the questions abovearen’t the only possible interview questions. Regardless of how much you prepare, you’ll almost definitely be asked a question you weren’t expecting. There’s no need to be too nervous, though. Just try to give honest, detailed answers. As long as you’re thoughtful and professional, you shouldn't worry too much about surprise questions. Also, you might be able to incorporate some details from the other questions you prepared for in your responses.For example, for any question related to academics, you could probably include details from your response to the question, "What are your academic strengths?" If you want to get more comfortable with the interview process, have a friend or parent ask you questions about yourself, and respond as if you were in the interview. This is an excellent way to prepare you for the real deal and will give you more confidence. What's Next? Still feeling nervous? Check out our guide tothe best tools to help you prepare for your interview, so you can feel confident going in. College interviews also giveyouthe opportunity to ask questions. Make sure you ask the right questions during your interview. If your goal is to get into one of the most selective colleges, check out our popular post on how to get into Harvard and the Ivy League. As you navigate the college selection process, it's important to knowhow to choose a college. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Million Dollar Baby Essays

Million Dollar Baby Essays Million Dollar Baby Essay Million Dollar Baby Essay In the medical rehabilitation facility, Maggie asks Frankie to do her a favor and help her die. She does not want to live that way and feels that she has accomplished everything she needed to In her life. Frankie refuses to grant her the wish and comforts her day In and day out. After she attempts to commit suicide, Frankie agrees to grant her the wish and takes her life. He ends up taking her breathing tube out and Injects her with adrenaline. In the end, It comes down to the violence of boxing and the ethical side of the sport. When it comes to sports, violence is always going to be something that happens. The difference between boxing and other sports is that its intent is to inflict injury to another human being. The most compelling objection to boxing is that, while other sports such as football and skiing actually produce more serious injuries, the purpose of these sports is not to inflict injury (Dubos, 2009). The main purpose of boxing is to get in the ring and hurt someone. Boxers train to hurt people and cause some kind of violence. It is a sport that takes the lives of people with no purpose. Getting rid of violence in all sports Is impossible, but stopping boxing eliminates numerous amounts of issues regarding health of athletes. In the movie, Maggie trained to get In the ring and hurt her opponent. It encourages actions that would warrant assault charges If they occurred on the street (Downy, 2009). When looking at that situation, It Is breaking all rules and laws regarding violence. People who are out in the community are not allowed to lay their hands on anyone without going to jail. When looking at boxing, they are saying it is alright to beat a person till they are knocked out or possibly dead. The purpose of boxing is to inflict harm on another: you get points by delivering punishing blows, and you can win by knocking the opponent senseless (Dubos, 009). This shows that boxing is a sport that contradicts the rules and laws of violence. The movie Million Dollar Baby is a perfect example of violence and the ethical decisions that were made. Maggie was fighting hard and clean with the Intent to win the fight. Her opponent was fighting dirty all night causing her to keep her guard up. After the round was over, she was hit by a dirty punch causing her to be paralyzed. The dirty fighter walked away with no punishment for breaking the rules and fighting dirty. It all comes down to ethics and morals that someone can beat the life out of someone else.

Presentation of Critical Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Presentation of Critical Assignment - Essay Example Introduction One of the recently criticized actions of United States is its attack on Abbottabad, Pakistan, which led to the killing of Osama bin Laden. On the one hand, detractors argued that the move broke the trust between two nations, U.S. and Pakistan, as well as the confidence of the Muslim people in nongovernmental aid (Rauhala, 2011, par.2). On the other hand, supporters asserted that the U.S. cannot be blamed for the weak health infrastructure of Pakistan, and that the mission promoted national interest (Nature, 2011, par.5). The significance of this event to Terrorism and Homeland Security will be explored further. In addition, principles and theories will be applied to understand its process and consequences on different citizens and future U.S. plans. The fake vaccination drive portrays the hardships of collecting intelligence information, through responding to religion and community needs aspects of terrorism, but denial and deception embody critical concepts in ensuring homeland security. Summary of the Fake Vaccination Drive The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) plotted to attack Bin Laden’s compound, and confirmed its whereabouts through launching a phony vaccination drive (Shah, 2011). Shah (2011) reported in The Guardian on July 11, 2011 that the move allowed the U.S. to verify Bin Laden’s location by collecting his family’s DNA. The DNA from any of the Bin Laden children in the compound could be matched with a sample from Bin Laden’s sister, who died in Boston in 2010 (Shah, 2011, par.6). Shah (2011) revealed that the CIA recruited the help of Doctor Shakil Afridi, a high-level medical professional, to carry out a regional vaccination program, so that they could validate if Osama bin Laden was hiding in Abbottabad (Shah, 2011, par.7). The ploy is successful because by April, nurses gained access to the compound by giving free hepatitis B vaccine (Shah, 2011, par.13). Soon, the U.S. deployed the Special Forces to at tack the compound and eliminate Bin Laden. Significance to Terrorism and Homeland Security Religion The event is significant to Terrorism and Homeland Security because it showed the tactics needed to infiltrate terrorists with religious interests. In the history of terrorism, religion has been the central or periphery causes of organized terrorists (Purpura, 2007, p.11). For Al Qaeda, they see themselves as fighting a Holy War and use religious language to provide legitimacy to their interests (Purpura, 2007, p.11). Religion is a critical concept in understanding and defeating Al Qaeda, although it is not the only aspect of its organizational interests (Purpura, 2007, p.11). They have a political agenda that consisted of forcing the U.S. to withdraw its presence in the Middle East, ousting regimes that support the U.S., and uniting Muslims toward these endeavors (Purpura, 2007, p.11). The vaccination ruse in Abbottabad, Pakistan depicted the urgency of employing non-religious scheme s that are neutral enough to attain the trust of the terrorists and their families. Community Needs Vaccination is an important need of Pakistani communities, and one which the CIA exploited to serve its purposes. The CIA required something â€Å"authentic† to not raise the security alarms of Bin Laden’s compound (Shah, 2011, par

Teaching Strategies Integration Research Proposal

Teaching Strategies Integration - Research Proposal Example He told us that the parent was quite correct, and that he had failed to account for different learning styles. He went on to say that only the grade from then on would count, for that reason, since he felt it was unfair if he left out any of the students. This is how I try to teach my own adult students, both men and women. In this paper I will describe ten of my teaching strategies developed for this purpose. All of these now have different names. According to the researchers who theorized the latest research on them, but they basically represent the major methods for learning. All learner use a combination of them all, with the exception of learners who are lacking the use of one or more physical senses. However, each learner learns more from one of these than the others. So the teacher who taught math using diagram was only addressing the visual learning style, and the students who favoured other learning styles were being left out. This diagram is the most useful for me when I am designing lessons, as it encompasses Kolb`s ideas very well, and includes all five of the methods I mentioned above. However, it adds another dimension, that of procedure and interaction. So try to design each lesson so that it include opportunities to include all of this learning activity and all five learning styles. I do not always introduce the lesson in the same way, as each lesson requires something different to best communicate it content. However, at some time I present it in both visual and auditory fashion. Then I provide a way for the students to discuss the material before giving them an opportunity to apply the learning in some activity. For every lesson I provide notes, though I do not always hand them out at the beginning. Some students take notes, while others just listen. All the students join in the discussion sessions and the hands on activities. Assessment follows using much the same pattern. I require the students to discuss the outcome, write something

Black reparations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Black reparations - Essay Example The central claims and organising and legal principles of the reparations movement are laid out in the Black Manifesto. The Manifesto is premised on the historical fact that the United States was constitutionally founded on slavery and that the persistence of racial inequality and injustice in American society is derived from slavery. The Manifesto articulates the legal principle for reparations for African Americans. According to Wade Henderson, Executive Director of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, this principle affirms that for every wrong there is a remedy, and ... that remedy is not extinguished by time itself, particularly when the manifestations of the problem are current day and visible to all1. Judiciously, the Manifesto does not specify how to assess the damage for reparations, calling for congressional hearings to determine the basis for compensation. While the Manifesto implicates the US government as a principal benefactor and enforcer of slavery, it intentionally does not specify the form or forms of reparations, except to call for the establishment of a 'private trust', which may imply financial as well as other forms of restitution. Mazrui has delineated three categories of reparations considered during his membership of the Group of Eminent Persons. The Group was established by the Org anisation for African Unity (OAU) in 1992 to address reparations in the larger context of African slavery and colonisation. The categories, broadly defined, are 'capital transfer', 'skill transfer' and 'empowerment'. The first of the three is self-evident, implying financial compensation; the second concerns the acquisition of skills and presumably knowledge to compensate for the deprivation and underdevelopment caused by slavery and colonisation; the third, 'empowerment', calls for the apportionment to Africa of 'out of proportion power' in institutions like the World Bank and for veto authority in the Security Council of the United Nations. Within these three categories, reparations can take several forms. Historical context The call for reparations in the US is not of recent vintage. On his match through Confederate territory in 1865, General William Tecumseh Sherman issued Special Field Order No. 15 on 16 January which reserved land largely in the Sea Islands and on the South Carolina and Georgia coasts for the settlement of freed blacks. That year, nearly 40,000 former slaves settled on 400,000 acres in the 'Sherman Reservation ( Levitt, 1997). Although Sherman (and his contemporaries who advocated land distribution) did not define this as reparations, he ordered that each family of ex-slaves be given not more than forty acres of tillable land' and 'subject to the approval of the President of the United States, a possessory title in writing ( Matsuda, 1987). However, the terms of the land distribution were unclear. Was the federal government leasing or giving title of the land to the ex-slaves When the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Land (aka the Freedmen's Bureau) was established in March 1865, Congress authorised it to lease confiscated or abandoned lands to former slaves who would have the option to 'purchase the land and receive such titles thereto as the United States can convey'. But President Johnson undermined the Bureau's efforts by ordering the restoration of property to the former Confederates he had pardoned. In

Practical report in molecular biology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Practical report in molecular biology - Essay Example DNAs that are prepared in this way may then be analysed by a method called gel electrophoresis. This involves the use of electric currents to facilitate the separation of linear DNA molecules through a gel support, usually consisting of the polymer agarose or polyacrylamide. These polymers form a molecular sieve that permit the DNA to pass through at a rate that is approximately inversely proportional to the log of the molecular weight as measured in kilobase pairs (Kb). The current initiates the movement of DNA from the site of application to the positively charged cathode as the negatively charged phosphate groups in the DNA molecule are drawn to the cathode by electrostatic attraction. If DNA fragments of Known molecular weight are electrophoresed simultaneously thre molecular weight of the DNA fragments generated by restriction enzyme digestion may be ascertained by comparing their rate of mobility with that of the standards of known molecular weight. This is usually calculated b y preparing a graph representing the log of the molecular weight of DNA standards versus the measured distance traveled beach band in millimeters (mm). The distances of the unknown fragments is measured and their molecular weights are determined by locating the position these measured distances are located on the graph. Restriction enzyme digestion of DNA followed by gel electrophoresis is a commonly used method for preparing DNA maps and determining the molecular weights of unknown DNA samples. The DNA used in this experimental protocol was obtained by culturing bacteria (E.coli) that contain plasmid DNA. Two types of plasmids were prepared from E.coli, designated plasmid X and Y. After the plasmid DNA was extracted from the bacterial cells, it was then digested with restriction enzymes, which are capable of making double stranded cuts in DNA molecules at specific

J&G Garden Center Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

J&G Garden Center - Case Study Example Additionally, it is reported they are competent, efficient, and effective in the execution of their duties (J&G Garden Center Case 171). Therefore, it would be imperative for Mr. Weed to take the liability of what he has actually tried to avoid. In regards to the environmental pollution from the chemical and other biohazards related to his product, he built a secure house with a locked barbed wire face as well as an alarm system that would alert them in case of any danger related to his business. Moreover, he constructed Material Runoff Proof Segment and took a special liability insurance policy to ensure the business is covered at any time of any dangerous eventuality. All these initiatives were meant to protect the worker, customer, the community, and the environments that are exposed to the business’ products. In other words, the business if fully compliant with regulatory, customers and environmental safety thereby it neither have loopholes nor undermined operational requi rements. However, it is proper that Mr. Weed is considered an ethical conflict for the closure of the divider. The business has a high profit margin and the only this Weed can do is to provide additional education on the after use safety measures through sensitizing the community and the persons he considers of concern (Duska and Rongione 92). In addition, he may hire or train more workers on the use of his products so that they may conduct regular monitoring and inspection places or fields that these chemicals are used to reduce the negative effects of these chemical on the users and their immediate surroundings (J&G Garden Center Case 171). In this manner, Weed shall have adequately solved the ethical conflicts surrounding his business. Part Two: Closing the New Division It is proper that the business is shut down the business since it is apparent that the business does not meet the minimum requirement set by the business. The minimum requirements herein are the ineffectiveness of the measures already intended to be met by the business. It should be noted that the company should maintain its name at all time during its operational life since the name company of the company is what makes such a company viable (J&G Garden Center Case 172). In fact, serious ethical issues affecting new division including lawsuits may affect the operation of Weed’s other business. Therefore, it will only be proper to shut down the business in favor of the operation of other businesses. However, instead of closing the business, Weed may improve the business profile with the focus on solving the ethical and legal problems currently facing the business. Numerous initiatives and measure may be taken towards improving the current business situation. As suggested by his wife and partners in his businesses, Weed should embark on a serious marketing (Schwartz 94). Marketing is a sure way of building confidence of the customer and the public on the business. Additionally, in his m arketing scheme, Weed should include well-articulated measures towards preventing the already identified problems associated with the application of his products. The business should also develop intensive monitoring trends to ensure that their customers, other than promising to adhere strictly to the down listed precaution requirement, they are actually following them to the letter (J&G Garden Center Case 172). Efficient, effective, and adequate monitoring will enable the company to detect any problem that is associated with

Practical report in molecular biology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Practical report in molecular biology - Essay Example DNAs that are prepared in this way may then be analysed by a method called gel electrophoresis. This involves the use of electric currents to facilitate the separation of linear DNA molecules through a gel support, usually consisting of the polymer agarose or polyacrylamide. These polymers form a molecular sieve that permit the DNA to pass through at a rate that is approximately inversely proportional to the log of the molecular weight as measured in kilobase pairs (Kb). The current initiates the movement of DNA from the site of application to the positively charged cathode as the negatively charged phosphate groups in the DNA molecule are drawn to the cathode by electrostatic attraction. If DNA fragments of Known molecular weight are electrophoresed simultaneously thre molecular weight of the DNA fragments generated by restriction enzyme digestion may be ascertained by comparing their rate of mobility with that of the standards of known molecular weight. This is usually calculated b y preparing a graph representing the log of the molecular weight of DNA standards versus the measured distance traveled beach band in millimeters (mm). The distances of the unknown fragments is measured and their molecular weights are determined by locating the position these measured distances are located on the graph. Restriction enzyme digestion of DNA followed by gel electrophoresis is a commonly used method for preparing DNA maps and determining the molecular weights of unknown DNA samples. The DNA used in this experimental protocol was obtained by culturing bacteria (E.coli) that contain plasmid DNA. Two types of plasmids were prepared from E.coli, designated plasmid X and Y. After the plasmid DNA was extracted from the bacterial cells, it was then digested with restriction enzymes, which are capable of making double stranded cuts in DNA molecules at specific

Emuglents Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Emuglents - Assignment Example Density modifiers can be used to ensure that the continuous and disperse phases have similar densities. This will prevent sedimentation and creaming problem. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable chemical compositions. As a result, care has to be taken to ensure that the physical stability remains intact. Other additives to formulations are colors, flavors, and perfumes. These additives have the capacity of altering emulsions; in terms of the physical characteristics. This is because of the presence of electrolytes which have an effect on pH levels; and, therefore, can impact the flocculation degree. On the other hand, addition of a sweetening emulgent leads to exhibition of Newtonian properties. The consequence of this is that, the rheological suspension properties could be affected adversely. Emulsion viscosity is determined by emulsifying agent concentrations in the formulation preparations. This is applicable to both water-in-oil, in addition to, oil-in-water systems. From the table of results, we can see the effects that surfactants have on the stability of emulsions. In the different solutions, with varying degrees of surfactants we can see that the changes through time depends on the concentration of the surfactants seen in B1, B2, A1, and

Terrorism Its Causes and Effects Essay Example for Free

Terrorism Its Causes and Effects Essay Terrorism has become a worldwide phenomenon with its many faces and manifestations. State-sponsored terrorism presents its worst form. Pol Pot in Cambodia let loose such a terrorism which killed millions of Cambodians. In India terrorism has been there in many States. Terrorists do not hesitate in using even the most cruel methods of violence and do not spare even women and children. In Punjab it has been Pakistan sponsored terrorism. It has been in control in Punjab but still not eliminated. Poverty, unemployment, deprivation and illiteracy make a good breeding ground for militancy extremism. In north-eastern States of India the terrorism has been on the rise and nothing effective has been done to check it. The tribal’s of these States have been victims of long neglect, deprivation, economic backwardness and alienation. Similarly People’s War Group (PWG) has been very active in Andhra Pradesh and has won support, sympathy and participation of the rural public in Telengana. Problem Of Terrorism The problem of terrorism need to be tackled on many fronts. It is a global menace and requires global cooperation between powers of the world to check and eradicate so devastating a phenomenon as terrorism. The biggest threat that the nation-state faces today emanates from terrorism which is widespread geographically and diverse ideologically. Modern terrorism thrives on its ability to hit where it hurts the most. The practitioners of modern terrorism believe the world ‘is beyond redemption. Irishterrorists, the Italian and Japanese Red Brigades, the Baader-Meinhoff gang in Germany, Islamic and Jewish fundamentalists have all sought to spread their ideology by the sword. Terrorist’s use of explosives, machine-gun fire or other sophisticated use of arms has interrupted the prayers of dozens of worshipers of all religions and cut short the journey of bus, rail and air passengers. Terrorism has many faces, faces and dimensions. It may be regional, national or global and international in scale. Then it may be regional, communal, political, state-sponsored or foreign in origin. It is found worldwide in one form or the other. The development of very fast means of transport, communication and very sophisticated automatic weapons, have given terrorism new dimensions, depth and immensity. With the globalization, economic integration and cooperation of the nations, the terrorism too has become unlimited and can be transported and transplanted to any part of the world easily. It is a cult of violence, killings, murders, arson and destruction to perpetrate terror, fear and demoralis1ation among the masses. It is in its worst form when it is state-sponsored. Then dictatorial and military rulers resort to violence, killings and shootings of people on suspicion or any other pretext and suppress human rights to make the public obey their unjust, discriminating dictates and administration. For example, Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, let loose the reign of terror in Cambodia between 1970 and 1975 and millions of its citizens were killed by its trigger-happy troops in uniform. Similarly, the Communist Government in China suppressed and killed people in thousands when they demand political reforms, liberalization and freedom from tyranny in 1989. In Tiananmen Square alone outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, the main place of students demonstration, about 5,000 young students were shot dead and another 10,000 injured. In Tibet as well, the followers of Dalai Lama and Buddhism are tortured and prosecuted by the government troops and administrators. The people there are being forcibly sterilized and their brains are being systematically washed. Dalai Lama himself fled Tibet and sought refuge in India to escape state-sponsored terrorism, violence and persecution. Now, he has his Government-in-exile at Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Terrorism in India is widespread and there seems no end to it, at least for the present. The way it has been spreading in States like Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland, etc. and spilling-over other states alarmingly, is a matter of great concern. The trigger-happy terrorists and extremists have been using all kinds of violence and automatic weapons and bombs to terrorize people and the administration. Their strategies include killings, murders, bomb-explosions, destruction of houses, looting of banks, disruption of road, and rail transportation and other means of communication, desecration of religious places, hijacking and kidnapping, arson and looting. They rape women and do not even spare innocent children. In retaliation, sometimes there is more terrorism, blood-shed, violence and destruction. In the cross-fire between terrorists and the government, the innocent citizens suffer the most because then the opponent forces become totally blind and lose discrimination. The militancy and terrorism and Punjab has been sponsored by neighbor Pakistan. The Pakistan’s ISI has been supervising and financing the terrorists in the Punjab and adjoining States of Haryana and Rajasthan. It has misled the many young people in the name of religion and separate and independent state of Khalistan. The extremists are trained and armed in Pakistani camps and then smuggled across the border into India. They explode bombs, loot banks, ransack homes, hijack, buses and planes and kidnap people. The militancy and terrorism in Punjab has been curbed and controlled to a large extent but it has not been eliminated. The then Chief Minister of Punjab, Mr. Beant Singh, himself was killed in an terrorist attack. In recent days there has again been a spurt in terrorist activities in Punjab. In the Bhatinda train blast in July, 1997, the fourth in the series of bomb-explosions, 38 lives were lost. The extremists have been striking at soft targets. According to the intelligence reports, Prakash Singh Badal himself was under threat from the terrorists. Again, terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir has been Pakistan- sponsored. A number of terrorist outfits have been active there supported, trained, armed and sneaked into the State by Pakistan. The extremists have given a communal colour to the violence and militancy and thousands of Kashmiri Hindus and Pandits have fled the State. The seeds of communal violence and extremism were really sown during the partition of the sub-continent into India and Pakistan. The terrorists groups in Kashmir mainly consist of some politically frustrated groups, religious fundamentalists and mislead youth of the society. Poverty, unemployment, deprivation and illiteracy have made the region a good breeding ground for militancy. The terrorists indulge in all sorts of anti-social and anti-government activities to achieve their narrow, sectarian, political and unholy aims but they are unlikely to succeed in spite of massive financial and other support from Pakistan. 2004 Lok Sabha campaign in JK-the Jaish-e-Mohammed leaflet in Mitari village, lays out a seven-point code of conduct for local residents. People’s Democratic party workers are â€Å"not to participate in the elections, or else face the consequences-which they understand†. Not only this-there has been scores of events of this nature in JK. During the 2002 Assembly elections, 250 companies of the police and paramilitary forces had been pressed into service to hold the ground. Likewise, contrary to that what may happen this time (2004), and how many companies would be needed is a matter of great concem for the Election Commission. The rise of terrorism and extremism in our north-eastern States of Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, Manipur etc. is part of our colonial legacy. The long British rule never attempted to bring the tribal’s of these states into the main stream of the nation. Rather a feeling of separation, hatred, alienation and disharmony was created. Unfortunately even after 55 years of independence, our leaders and governments have failed to change the equation for better. Consequently, misled by a false sense of losing their ethnic identity and independence, they have taken to arms and extremism. Besides social-political and economic aspects there are some such other aspects as psychological, emotional and religious. As a result there has been no participation of the people of these States in the process of democracy and independence. They have been haunted by insecurity, neglect and alienation and want separate and independent states. To achieve their ends they commit heinous crimes like burning, looting and destroying of the homes and houses of other ethnic groups, killing†¢ government security personnel and soldiers. They explode bombs at public places and kill innocent people. They also resort to abduction and kidnappings. The Peoples War Group (PWG) has been quite active for a long time in Andhra Pradesh and now exercises control on a big part of the Telengana region. The poverty and unemployment coupled with illiteracy and exploitation of the weak and vulnerable sections of the society have made these parts of the State fertile ground for insurrection and terrorism. No effective. steps were taken to improve the socio-economic conditions of the people and they were demoralized. In sheer desperation and misery they saw a ray of hope in the PWG movement and if the information is to be believed the militants have been delivering goods. The militant Naxalite outfits have been successful in winning the sympathy, favor and patronage of the down- trodden and long exploited masses who have always been at a receiving and at the hands of the corrupt government officials for many generations. Large parts of Telengana are now under effective control and administration of the PWG. Simply banning an extremist group is not enough, the genuine grievances of the public need to be redressed at the same time. They need a healing touch besides social and economical developments and empowerment. Devaluation and decentralization of powers and economic resources at the grassroots levels to the panchayat raj institutions is the need of the hour. Militancy and terrorism can be checked and eradicated only with the support and active participation of the people of the area. The menace of terrorism needs to be tackled on many fronts. The cause of militancy and terrorism should be clearly and precisely identified and remedial steps taken. There should be clear under- standing and cooperation between neighboring countries on the matter to check terrorism. Moreover, national security and intelligence need be kept quite fit and updated. In the ultimate analysis terrorism achieves nothing, solves nothing. It is sheer madness to take to arms when there are many other democratic and constitutional means available to solve problems in a democratic country like India. Pakistan should also understand that its militant activities and terrorism in India will not succeed. They have already started boomeranging and Pakistan itself is in the worst configuration of communal violence, frenzy, terrorism and bloodshed. Terrorism and its sponsors commit a crime against humanity at large and must be dealt with accordingly. It is a global danger and can be eliminated only by close cooperation between various communities and nations of the world. All terrorist groups are criminals including even those who start with good intentions and objectives because sooner or later they degenerate into corrupt, criminal and anti-social groups. They become so blind in their over-ambition and misguided enthusiasm that they soon lose sense of balance and discrimination between good and evil. Most of the militant outfits have their origin in evil and sin. They are ruthless, rapacious and greedy and do not spare even children, women, old and weak people. They do not hesitate even to abduct and kill foreign tourists and visitors. It creates an endless vicious circle. Terrorists become indiscriminate’ in their killings, shootings and violence. They have no religion, ethics, fellow-feelings and code of conduct. Terrorism drains a country of its valuable resources and enormous funds are spent in facing and checking it. It is said not in vain that prevention is better than cure. Our political leaders are mainly responsible for the origin and growth of terrorism in India in most of the cases. There is still time that th1ey realize that national interest is above everything else and that unity and integrity of the nation is the hallmark of patriotism. Only patriotic feelings coupled with efforts in reduction of poverty, illiteracy, regional imbalances, and inequality among people can successfully face and fight the menace of terrorism.

Relationship Between Religiosity And Prejudice Psychology Essay

Relationship Between Religiosity And Prejudice Psychology Essay The literature on the relationship between religiosity and prejudice has shown inconsistent findings. We argue that it is necessary to distinguish between different types of religiosity and that the relationship with prejudice is mediated by different values. Results of two studies conducted in Italy showed that identified religiosity and introjected religiosity predict different levels of prejudice towards Muslim immigrants. Moreover, the negative relationship between identified religiosity and prejudice was mediated by prosocial values, whereas valuing conformity mediated the positive relationship between introjected religiosity and prejudice. In sum, results showed that it is possible to better understand the relationship between religiosity and prejudice by disentangling the different ways of being religious. Keywords: religious identity, religious internalization, values, prejudice Religiosity and Prejudice: Different Patterns for Two Types of Religious Internalization Are religious people more tolerant? The question about the relationship between religiosity and prejudice always elicited opposite answers. From one side, one would expect that religious people are more accepting of minority out-groups, basing on the idea that most religions teach love for others (see Hunsberger Jackson, 2005). From the other side, not all people describing themselves as religious have positive out-group attitudes; on the contrary, this relationship often goes in the opposite direction, with more religious people being more prejudiced (see the review by Batson, Schoenrade, Ventis, 1993). It is now evident that, in order to approach these conflicting answers, it is necessary to differentiate between the different ways of being religious (see also Leak Finken, 2011), and to investigate which people, among religious people, are more tolerant and which are not. The most common distinction is between an intrinsic and an extrinsic religious orientation (Allport and Ross, 1967): according to these distinction, intrinsic religiosity is connected with low prejudice whereas extrinsic religiosity is related to relatively high levels of prejudice. However, empirical research investigating the link between religiosity and prejudice has not clearly supported these connections and, therefore, this distinction does not seem to offer a clear understanding of the inconsistent link between religiosity and prejudice (Hunsberger Jackson, 2005). Another attempt to analyze the relationship between religiosity and prejudice has been to identify intervening variables. Indeed, scholars identified other constructs than can influence the positive or negative effects of religiosity on prejudice. Research showed that differences in prejudice can be explained by considering the mediating role of, for example, political ideology and right-wing authoritarianism (e.g., Rowatt et al., 2009), religious fundamentalism (e.g., Altemeyer Hunsberger, 1992), and sense of meaning (Hunsberger Jackson, 2005). The aim of the present research is to make a further contribution to the understanding of the relationship between religiosity and prejudice, by analyzing two forms of religious internalization and by examining value endorsement as a mediating variable. In particular, we focus on the distinction between what is called indentified regulated religiosity and introjected regulated religiosity (Ryan, Rigby, King, 1993). In addition, we consider the role of the endorsement of prosocial values and conformity values as mediators in the relationship between religiosity and prejudice. The findings of two studies that examine the attitude towards Muslim immigrants of young adults in Italy will be presented. Religious Identification and Introjection Research on religiosity and prejudice has used Allport and Ross (1967) distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic religious orientation (see Batson, Schoenrade, Ventis, 1993). Recently, some scholars questioned the usefulness of this distinction (e.g., Cohen, Hall, Koenig, Meador, 2005; Flere Lavric, 2007) and revised it (Neyrinck, Lens, Vansteenkiste, Soenens, 2010) by using theories of human motivation such as self-determination theory (Deci Ryan, 1985; Ryan Deci, 2000). An alternative distinction has been offered by research in the field of self-determination theory, which proposed a specific conceptualization of the different ways in which religious values are endorsed and religious behavior regulated. Beliefs can be endorsed in a superficial and conditional way depending on circumstances and social pressures (heteronomy), or in a personal and independent way (autonomy) (Ryan Deci, 2000). Within this framework, two types of religiosity emerged that vary in their relative autonomy: introjected regulation and identified regulation (Ryan, Rigby and King, 1993). The former represents religious beliefs and behaviors that are predominantly based on social pressures and the approval of others. The latter represents adoption of beliefs as personal convictions and the enactment of religious behaviors that are personally chosen and valued (Ryan et al., 1993). Introjected and identified internalization of religion appear to be differently associated to psychological outcomes with the latter having positive and the former negative effects on mental health, psychological adjustment, and self-esteem (Ryan et al., 1993). Whereas the psychological implications of both types of religiosity have been examined, little is known about their social implications. In particular, the relation between types of religious internalization and prejudice has not been investigated. In this study we propose that identified internalization may be related to lower prejudice towards Muslim immigrants, which in the Italian context is a significant and generally negatively evaluated minority out-group (Strabac Listhaug, 2008). In fact, individuals who are deeply identified with their religion can be expected to privately endorse religious principles of prosociality and tolerance, if they feel that their religion values prosociality and tolerance. Accordingly, they should display relatively positive out-group attitudes. In contrast, individuals who mainly introject their religiosity do not privately endorse such values but rather seek approval from significant and generalized others, as they feel that to be religious is to be like the majority of people. In view of the wide-spread negative attitudes towards Muslim immigrants in Italy they, therefore, can be expected to be more prejudiced towards Muslim immigrants. Thus, our prediction is that identified religious people will show significant lower levels of prejudice towards Muslim immigrants than introjected religious people. Religiosity and Values Research on religiosity and prejudice has tried to shed light on the reasons why religious people are less or more prejudiced by examining mediating variables (e.g., Rowatt et al., 2009). In the present paper, we consider values as possible mediators between religiosity and prejudice. Thus, we assume that the different values associated with the different ways of being religious can influence the relationship between religiosity and prejudice. Research investigating the relationship between religiosity and values can be broadly divided into two types. A first group of studies focuses on the relationship between religiosity and conformism. For example, a meta-analysis by Saroglou, Delpierre and Dernelle (2003), including 21 samples from15 different countries, examined the link between religiosity and Schwartzs (1992) model of human values. The analysis showed that religiosity is mainly associated with valuing the maintenance and adoption of social and cultural rules and conventions. A second group of studies highlights the association between religiosity and prosocial values. For example, in his review Regnerus (2003) found that religious adolescents are more likely to be involved in prosocial behaviours than non religious peers. Furthermore, Hardy and Carlo (2005) showed that prosocial values partially mediate the relationship between religiosity and prosocial behaviors. These studies indicate that religiosity is associated with valuing conformity as well as prosociality and these two sets of values are likely to play a different role in intergroup attitudes. In general, the prosocial value of concern for the welfare of others tends to lead to accepting and positive behavior (Hardy Carlo, 2005), whereas valuing conformity and respect for tradition tends to lead to discrimination of non-traditional out-groups, including immigrant groups in Italy (Sniderman, Peri, de Figueiredo, Piazza, 2002). We expected conformity values to be most strongly connected with introjected religiosity because this type of religious belief is predominantly based on approval of others. In contrast, prosocial values were expected to be connected with identified religiosity. In turn, the conformity and prosocial values were expected to be independently associated with prejudice. Thus, the second prediction of the current research is that higher identified religiosity is asso ciated with lower levels of prejudice because of the endorsement of prosocial values, whereas higher introjected religiosity is associated with higher levels of prejudice because of the endorsement of conformity values. The Present Study In the present study, we tested the relationship between religious internalization and anti-Muslim prejudice, and the potential mediational role of prosocial and conformity values. We predicted two paths: identified religious people should endorse in a greater way the religious principles of prosociality and tolerance, thus, we expected a path from identified religiosity to less prejudice, via the endorsement of prosocial values Because of the other-based-approval of introjected religiosity and because those who prize conformity will tend to yield to social pressure and have more negative attitudes toward immigrant groups (Sniderman et al., 2002), we expected the endorsement of conformity to mediate the relationship between introjected religiosity and prejudice. Method Participants. Participants were 164 Italian young adults, self-identified as Catholics, of age between 17 and 30 (M = 21.68, SD = 3.20), with 64.2 % females. Procedure. Participants were contacted by a member of the research team in schools and religious associations. They were asked to fill in an online questionnaire and participation was voluntary. Participants who completed the questionnaire had the chance to take part in a prize draw. All respondents signed an informed consent form before completing the questionnaire. Measures. Respondents completed the questionnaire in Italian. All the measure included were translated into Italian with a back-translation procedure, as recommended by the guidelines of the International Test Commission (Hambleton, 1994). The Christian Religious Internalization Scale (Ryan et al, 1993) was developed for research with a Christian population and measures the reasons why a person engages in religious behavior. There are two reliable and validated subscales, Introjected Religiosity and Identified Religiosity (response scale: 1, not at all true, 7, very true). Two example items for the introjected religiosity subscale (five items) are: an important reason why I attend church is because one is supposed to go to church, when I turn to God, I most often do it because I would feel guilty if I didnt. Example items for the identified religiosity subscale (six items) are: when I turn to God, I most often do it because I find it satisfying to me, an important reason why I attend church is that by going to church I learn new things. In the present sample Cronbachs alpha showed acceptable values (introjected religiosity ÃŽÂ ± = .70; identified religiosity ÃŽÂ ± = .86). Prosocial values were measured with five items adapted from Flanagan, Cusmille, Gill, and Gallay (2007). The scale prompt is the question When you think about your life and your future, how important isà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. Subsequently, participants are asked to respond to five items (5-point scale): to do something in order to build a better society, helping those who are less fortunate, to make a contribution to your country, etc. (ÃŽÂ ± = .82) Prejudice towards Muslims. Following Verkuyten and Yildiz (2010) we focused on the acceptance of Muslim immigrants expressing their religious identity in Italy. Using five items, participants were asked to indicate their agreement (7-point scale) with Muslims expressive rights. Two examples are: to show and express their religion in public life, to wear a headscarf. The scores were recoded so that a higher score means less acceptance of Muslims rights and, thus, more prejudice (ÃŽÂ ± = .87). Conformity. Following Snidermans et al. (2002) research in Italy, participants were asked to rate their agreement (7-point scale) with four statement about conformity values. Two example items are: one should distrust those who act differently from most people; rules are there for people to follow, not to try to change (ÃŽÂ ± = .71). Results and Discussion Constructs were modeled as single-indicator observed variables, by calculating the mean score of the scale items. We conducted a series of path analyses with prejudice towards Muslims as the dependent variable, using the software Amos 16. Means, standard deviations and intercorrelations among the variables are displayed in Table 1. The mean for identified religiosity is higher than for introjected religiosity (t = 21.22, p. Table 1. Means, Standard Deviations and Correlations. Variables 1 2 3 4 5 1. Identification 2. Introjection .36** 3. Prosocial values .44** .12 4. Conformity .06 .18* -.01 5. Muslim prejudice -.07 -.05 -.27** .35** Mean 4.67 2.51 4.03 3.08 3.67 SD 1.17 0.94 .73 1.18 1.60 *p We first tested a model in which introjection, identification, prosocial values and conformity values were independent predictors of prejudice towards Muslims. Fit indices for this model were not acceptable (à Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã‚ ² (5) = 34.321, p. We then tested a full mediation model, whereby the influence of introjection and identification on anti-Muslim prejudice was carried respectively by the endorsement of prosocial and conformity values. The model showed a good fit with the data (à Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã‚ ² (5) = 2.341, p. > .05; NFI= .97; CFI= 1.00; RMSEA= .00, 90% confidence interval: .00- .07) and accounted for 20.0 % of variance in prejudice towards Muslims. Significant parameters from this model are shown in Figure 1. We then calculated the indirect effects on the basis of Preacher and Hayes (2008) bootstrapping method. There was a significant indirect effect from identified religiosity via prosocial values on anti-Muslim prejudice (the standardized indirect effect was estimated as -.12; this value lies between the estimated 95 % confidence interval, -.03 to -.22). There was also a significant indirect effect from introjected religiosity via conformity to prejudice towards Muslims (ÃŽÂ ² = .06, 95% confidence interval: .01 to .12). To further examine our mediational hypotheses we tested an alternative model in which the endorsement of prosocial and conformity values predicted the outcome measure indirectly through identified and introjected religiosity, respectively. The fit indexes for this model were not acceptable (à Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã‚ ² (6) = 52.763, p. .44** Prosocial values Identification -.28** -.12* Prejudice towards Muslims .36** .06* .36** .18* Introjection Conformity Figure 1. Results of the path analysis showing the empirical mediation of prosocial values and valuing conformity. Solid lines represent direct effects and dashed lines represent indirect effects. Numbers are standardized regression weights. **p In sum, the findings confirm the prediction of the independent associations of identified and introjected religiosity with prejudice. Besides, they also confirm the mediational hypotheses about the role of values endorsement. In particular, there appeared to be two pathways: one from identified religiosity via the endorsement of prosocial values to lower prejudice towards Muslims, and the other from introjected religiosity to valuing conformity to higher prejudice. General Discussion The research aimed to test the prediction that different forms of religious internalization are independently associated with prejudice, and that these associations are mediated by the endorsement of different types of values. Thus, we selected a religious sample in order to shed light on the different ways of being religious. Results showed that higher identified religiosity was related to stronger acceptance of Muslims rights (i.e. lower prejudice) and that this was connected to the endorsement of prosocial values. Conformity values which accounted for the indirect relationship between introjected religiosity and prejudice. A first interesting finding is that religious identification and religious introjection were independently and in contrasting ways related to prejudice. They emerged as two dimensions of religiosity that are indirectly associated with prejudice, one with a positive sign and the other one with a negative sign. To our knowledge, this is the first time that such a clear pattern emerge. Therefore, this conceptualization of religiosity could be a useful model that is able to overcome some of the problems with Allport and Ross (1967) distinction, that was not systematically and consistently related to prejudice (see Hunsberger Jackson, 2005). A second finding is that, in agreement with research on values and religiosity (Saroglou et al., 2003), we found a relationship between religiosity and conformity and with the endorsement of prosocial values. Additionally, we were able to identify which form of religious internalization predicts the association with which set of values. Prosocial values were clearly connected with identified religiosity, whereas valuing conformity was associated with introjected religiosity. A third result that contributes to the literature relates to self-determination theory (Ryan et al., 1993). The findings enrich Ryan et al. (1993) conceptualization because they empirically show that the difference between identified and introjected religiosity not only has consequences for individual well-being but also for value endorsement and thereby for prejudice. In fact, the different ways of being religious are strongly associated to different values and this lead to opposite outcomes. Conclusion In the present study, we aimed at investigating the relation between different types of religious internalization and different levels of prejudice. The study indeed presents some limitations, first because of the correlational nature of data and second because of the composition of the sample. In fact, participants are of young age and all live in Italy, making it difficult to generalize the findings to other countries, maybe where religiosity has a different distribution among the population. Similarly, we need to examine other targets of prejudice (e.g., Jews, homosexuals) before reaching general conclusions. Nevertheless, we think that some interesting directions for future research a can be drawn from these findings. A first one refers to the internalization of religion: identified internalization turned out to be a form of religiosity that has the potential to encourage prosocial orientations and out-group tolerance. Thus, it would be interesting, for future research, to look at the factors that promote identified religiosity among religious groups and families (e.g., Assor, Cohen-Malayev, Kaplan, Friedman, 2005). A second suggestion is that future research should investigate other determinants of individual differences in religiosity and try to identify the different ways of being religious with their specific consequences (Pargament, 2002): for example, it is possible that not only identified and introjected internalization have effects on prejudice, but also religious practices and participation in religious organizations and groups(e.g., prayer, church attendance, volunteering, et c.). To sum up, our research add to the investigation of religiosity and prejudice by showing that two forms of religious internalization have independent and contrasting associations with prejudice, and that these associations are accounted by the endorsement of different values. This means that religiosity can both promote and hinder positive intergroup relations, depending on the way religion is internalized and the related values that are endorsed. This seems to indicate that more research is needed about the different ways of being religious and the mediational mechanisms that intervene in the religiosity-prejudice link.

Shakespeares Hamlet - Hamlet’s Villain, King Claudius Essay -- GCSE E

Hamlet’s Villain, King Claudius      Ã‚  Ã‚   In the drama Hamlet Shakespeare has concocted a multi-dimensional character in the person of King Claudius. It is the intent of this essay to analyze and probe all the various aspects of this curious personality.    Ward and Trent in The Cambridge History of English and American Literature consider Shakespeare’s options in designing the character of Claudius:    There were at least two ways in which an ordinary, or rather more than ordinary, dramatist might have dealt with this other â€Å"majesty of Denmark.† He could have been made a crude dramatic villain—a crowned â€Å"Shakebag† or â€Å"Black Will,† to use the phraseology of his creator’s own day. He could have been made pure straw—a mere common usurper. And it would appear that he has actually seemed to some to be one or other of these two. Neither of them is the Claudius which Shakespeare has presented; and those who take him as either seem to miss the note which, putting sheer poetic faculty once more aside, is the note of Shakespeare. It is not to be supposed that Shakespeare liked Claudius; if he did, and if he has produced on respectable readers the effect above hinted at, he certainly was as ineffectual a writer as the merest crà ©tin, or the merest crank, among his critics could imagine. But neither did he dislike Claudius; he knew tha t, in the great Greek phrase, it was the duty of creators to â€Å"see fair†Ã¢â‚¬â€[char]—in the handling of their creations. It would appear that the successor of Hamlet I might have been a very respectable person, if his brother had not possessed a kingdom and a queen that he wanted for himself. (vol.5, pt.1, ch.8, sec.16, no.53)    Literary criticism varies in its evaluation of Claudius. The â€Å"very... .... San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1996. Rpt. from Shakespeare’s Women. N.p.: n.p., 1981.    Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. 1995. http://www.chemicool.com/Shakespeare/hamlet/full.html    Ward & Trent, et al. The Cambridge History of English and American Literature. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1907–21; New York: Bartleby.com, 2000 http://www.bartleby.com/215/0816.html    West, Rebecca. â€Å"A Court and World Infected by the Disease of Corruption.† Readings on Hamlet. Ed. Don Nardo. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1999. Rpt. from The Court and the Castle. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 1957.    Wilkie, Brian and James Hurt. â€Å"Shakespeare.† Literature of the Western World. Ed. Brian Wilkie and James Hurt. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., 1992.               

The Importance of The Bill of Rights in Society Today Essay -- The Bill

When the Second Constitutional Convention wrote the Constitution in 1787, there was a controversy between the federalists and the anti-federalists surrounding whether or not to have a Bill of Rights. The anti-federalists claimed that a bill of rights was needed that listed the guaranteed rights that the government could never take away from a person i.e. â€Å"inalienable rights.† A Bill of Rights was eventually deemed necessary, and has worked for over 210 years. There are many reasons why the ten amendments are still valid to this day, and the best examples are the First Amendment, concerning the freedom of religion, the Fifth Amendment, and the Sixth Amendment. The Amendment I of the Bill of Rights is often called â€Å"the freedom of speech.† It provides a multitude of freedoms: of religion, of speech, of the press, to peacefully assemble, to petition the government. Religious freedom is vitally important to this day because it eliminates the problem of religious conflicts. Historically, many people died for their beliefs because their government only allowed and permitted one religion. T...

Blood Donations

Have you saved somebody’s life lately? Did you know that you can help three people who struggle to survive by giving an hour of your day? I wasn’t aware of how many people I can help until there was a blood drive at my high school. The blood drive was run by the ARUP Blood Services and I learned a ton about donating blood. Before you donate you can talk to a representative and learn more about donating blood. I learned that the blood donated can be stored for about 28 days until it goes bad. The phlebotomist told me blood donations are given to several patients who need transfusions to live.If there are many people donating it can be a long process, but it’s worth the wait until the end because they will provide you with a variety of snacks, treats and drinks. If you are a healthy candidate, you can donate one pint of your blood that can help three different people. A healthy donor can donate blood every 56 days. According the American Red Cross â€Å"If you beg an donating blood at age 17 and donated every 56 days until you reached 76, you would have donated 48 gallons of blood, potentially helping save more than 1,000 lives! † Think about it.The complex blood inside our bodies can be used for a number of people’s lives; you can help save them. You can be a hero to those in need by donating your blood. We talk about donating blood, but people typically don’t know the fundamentals of blood. It’s important to understand blood and what it does. So, what is blood? It’s the red liquid that oozes out when you scrape your arm or leg. That’s what we see and that’s what people say. But if you take the time to study or learn about blood, you’ll see that there are four different components: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.Each component has a different function. The red blood cells function is to carry blood and oxygen to other tissues and organs in the body. Red blood c ells contain hemoglobin, a substance that is iron rich, which binds to the oxygen in your lungs and then carried by arteries. White blood cells main purpose is to defend your body against foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Platelets help blood vessels when there is a wound. The platelets will coagulate, or clot, around the wound and plug up the vessel so that blood does not leak out the injury.Plasma is straw-yellow colored liquid in the blood and is composed of a variety of substances. Our plasma contains nutrients, such vitamins, proteins, amino acids, salts, sugar and more which are essential to the functioning of all bodily cells (Avraham; Litin). Avraham states â€Å"plasma ensures the body of proper balance of these nutrient,† (46). All these components of blood are necessary for the proper functioning of our bodies. We need each part of our blood to work properly in order to live a healthy lifestyle.Although all blood is made up of red blo od cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma, the blood of all people is not the same. Blood types were unknown until 1901, when Karl Landsteiner, an Austrian physician, discovered the presence of blood groups. â€Å"Landsteiner found three groups — A, B and O — that contained one (A or B) or neither (O) of two antigens on the surface of red blood cells. Importantly, he found that people receiving mismatched transfusions made destructive antibodies against the blood-borne antigens that weren’t theirs† (Shugart).Blood types and groups follow into four categories: A; B; AB and O. Each group has different antigens and antibodies. Antigens are a substance that stimulates the antibody. Antibodies are a response cell that will either attack an antigen or let it pass. People who have blood type A have A antigens and antibodies that attack B antigens, and those who have type B have B antigens and have antibodies that attack A antigens. Those who are type AB have both antigens and type O has no antigens. Every group is divided into two groups, positive and negative.The factor that depends on another antigen called the rhesus. Those who have the rhesus antigen are positive and those who don’t are negative (Litin, 1060-1062). It’s vital for people to receive blood from the same blood type or the consequences may be fatal. So let’s say you have B antigens in your blood and have no rhesus antigens, you would be considered B-. Transfusing a patient with blood, that is not the same type as that person, can be very dangerous because he or she may have antibodies that will attack and reject the foreign antigens that have entered the body.In the process, they may destroy the red blood cells in the recipient’s blood (Avraham, 52-54). When blood is donated, several tests are run and those testing the blood are able to figure out what blood type you are. Knowing what blood group you belong in is important because the nec essity for blood can vary in different places of the world. According to ARUP, this table represents which blood types are able to receive blood from different groups. Blood transfusions date back to the 17th century. It was first practiced by two dogs. Then in 1667, French physician Jean Baptist Denis made the jump to humans.â€Å"He transfused 9 ounces of sheep’s blood into a teenage boy by attaching the animal’s carotid artery to the boy’s arm. The boy survived the ordeal, prompting Denis to perform the procedure on several other patients until, eventually, one died. The death triggered a backlash against blood transfusion, leading several countries to ban it,† (Shugart). Then 150 years later, the first transfusion between humans was recorded. James Blundell, a physiologist, took several different blood donors and mixed them together and injected the mixture into a patient suffering from internal bleeding.The patient felt well, but passed away three da ys later. â€Å"The cause of the delayed fatal reaction wouldn’t be understood until the next century,† (Shugart). Blood transfusing would remain a hit or miss until the next century when Landsteiner discovered the blood types. During the last century scientists and biotech companies have been studying ways to create artificial blood. A substance called polyheme was used as a substitute to carry oxygen cells. â€Å"Unfortunately, trauma patients receiving the PolyHeme infusions turned out to be slightly more likely to die of their injuries compared with patients infused with real blood (13.2 percent versus 10 percent)† (Shugart).After discovering that artificial blood did not help patients whatsoever, many companies quit researching. Not only does blood need oxygen carrying cells, it also requires other tasks. Blood contains platelets and clotting factors that help stop internal bleeding; white blood cells to fight infection and electrolytes needed for organ and muscle function. Because blood is very complex, creating artificial blood will take lots of studying and research. â€Å"When it comes to blood, so far nature knows best,† (Shugart). There are many ways to donate blood.Many companies are present in every state such as the American Red Cross. Or there are private blood banks such as the ARUP: Blood Services. Because the need for blood donations is always in demand, many companies are flexible with times and scheduling appointments. The process is very simple. First things that happen when you check in are that they verify your information. Then they give you a book for you to review that have information regarding diseases and medications that can alter you blood. While you reading the book you are given a questionnaire that you must answer to help verify your eligibility to donate blood.When the questionnaire is all done and you’ve read the book, the nurse in charge will call you back and take you into a room and run a few vital signs. That person will check your blood pressure, temperature, pulse and will check your red blood count. In order for them to check your red blood count is that they prick you finger with a small needle and obtain a small sample in a blood in a little tube and run it through a centrifuge. The centrifuge separates the red blood cells from the plasma and then the nurse will measure it.Before the nurse leaves the room, she gives you two stickers, a red and green one. The nurse will describe that the red and green one have different purposes and that you will have to choose one confidentially. The red sticker indicates that you do not want your blood to be used. Maybe you have lied about something, felt pressured to donate blood when you didn’t want too or have done something recently that may affect your blood and you didn’t want anybody to know. The green sticker represents that you feel like your blood is safe and want your blood to be used.Choosing the st icker is done confidentially and afterwards you step out of the room to find the nurse. As soon as you find the nurse, he or she will sit you down comfortably on their chairs and you will be ready to donate your blood. In the United States, an estimated 37 percent of Americans are eligible to donate. However, only ten percent actually donate. What about the other 27 percent of people? Well ask yourself, â€Å"Have I ever thought about donating blood? † The two most common reasons for not donating blood are that people have never given it the thought, or they are terrified of needles (American Red Cross).I’ve encountered many friends and family members who do not want to donate blood because they have a fear of needles. They say they don’t want to get poked because it’s painful or the might faint by the sight of a needle inside their arm. Some people think that they are not eligible when they really are. Those who have gotten a piercing or tattoo are not e ligible to donate for a year because of safety precaution. Precautions such as risk with coming into contact with HIV, or AIDs prevent eligibility from the use on non-sterile needles (Moisse).Because donating blood is only done by volunteers, people may feel like they’re not obligated to donate. It’s true; people don’t have to donate blood. Donating blood may not seem like a big deal, but it helps saves lives every day. The need for blood is always in high demand because accidents happen, and you can’t always expect them. According to the American Red Cross, a single car accident victim may require as many as 100 pints of blood. Donating blood makes a difference. Ask Brennah Payne, she’s a 14 year old teenager who was involved in a car accident at age seven.The incident broke her spine in half, fractured her face, ruptured her bowels, suffered major internal bleeding, and went through nine major surgeries, and 22 other medical procedures throughout the next six months (Shugart). Brennah Payne stated â€Å"I remember tubes coming into me, but I don’t really remember what was in them, now I know that the things that were in them kept me alive†¦ There were so many people helping me, and I didn’t really know why. I just knew that I felt love from them, and it made me happy because without them I wouldn’t be here today,† (Shugart).Today, Brennah is a healthy teenager and a competitive runner on her schools cross country team. â€Å"Although she has recovered from the accident that occurred half a lifetime ago, she has never forgotten how the generosity of blood donors saved her life,† (Shugart). Blood donations have changes Brennah’s life. You can be that person to make an impact on somebody’s life. Although patients, who receive your blood, may not know who you are, they will appreciate the effort giving to donating blood. If you’ve ever grown up wanting to be a hero to others in need, here’s your chance.