The Catcher In The Rye Essays (572 words) - Literary Realism

The Catcher In The Rye The Catcher in the Rye ?The Catcher in the Rye? highlights the value of innocence. Holden is a teenage boy who finds himself caught between the corruptedness of growing up, and the beauty of staying innocent. Holden's relationship with Phoebe is unparrallel to his relationship with anybody else. She is the most innocent and pure person to him because he understands her, and she too loves him. Holden's desire to be a ?Catcher in the Rye? explains his wanting to protect innocence. To catch those who are innocent before they fall ( or grow up) into corruption and adulthood. Holden's attitude toward the adult world derrives from what he sees people selling out on from his eyes. He notices the way people unfairly treat each other and feels that they are fake. To make matters worse he finds himself staying in New York for a few days long enough to evaluate the type of people he dispises and to appreciate the people he loves. Phoebe is Holden's young sister. They have a close connection and love eachother very much. She is young but in Holden's eyes she is much more intellgent than people her age. She is straightforward and honest. Holden feels that he can talk to her without getting a phony response from her and is fascinated with her personality and in turn wants to protect her from the world that he knows as being corrupt. There is a point when she wants to run away with him but he doesnt allow it. As she insists he screams at her and hurts her feelings, causing her to get angry and begin to ignore him. As time passes they find themselves in a zoo and talking. This shows the close relationship that they have. Also she symbolizes the very thing that is trying to preserve in everything when he notices how innocent she looks having fun on the Caroussel. Holden's desire to be a ?Catcher in the Rye? comes from his wanting to preserve and protect the innocence that children have just like a Catcher protects children from falling off a cliff . He feels that this innocence is very valuble and shouldnt be tampered with or even stolen by the cruelties and dirtiness of the adult world which he has seen. He tries to protect people like Jane Gallagher and Phoebe by not telling Phoebe anything harsh, or by not calling Jane Gallagher for fear that she might have changed. Holden resents the adult world for being fake and insensitive to other people. Its a world of selfishness and un- authentic behaviors that Holden finds disgusting. He sees all the phony people who treat people according to status, or looks. He notices hypocrits and liars. Whats funny is that he himself is a liar, he admitts it and is in a sense proud of it . He lies to amuse himself which brings me to think that he is already growing up and loosing his innocence without even knowing it. ?The Catcher in the Rye? points out alot of things in every day life that people disregard or simply dont notice because they are too involved in their own affairs. The world just appears to be a big lie in the eyes of Holden Caulfield and as a Catcher, wants to stop it from sucking in the pure. Phoniness always wins in the end which is deppressing. I can honestly say that although I didnt like the book all that much, I did realize that I share alot of Holden's views. I think I would be naive if I didnt. Book Reports

The Copycat Mary Essays - Mariology, Literature, Fiction

The Copycat Mary Essays - Mariology, Literature, Fiction Connor Johnson Mr. Kearney Modern Irish Lit. P. 6 5 April 2016 The Copycat Mary Mary is one of the biggest figures, especially for mothers, in all of Christianity. Joyce writes Mary Dedalus into A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man to have her try and take on the role of the virgin Mary. Mrs. Dedalus, a God fearing prayerful woman dedicates her life to the pursuit of being a great mother. No matter how hard she tries with her kids she becomes like Sisyphus, all of her work being undone. Mary tries to compare herself in actions to the virgin Mary, but fails constantly in her endeavors, inevitably ruining those she tries to help. The virgin Mary, conceiving a child without sex is the ultimate sign of her purity. In her constant struggle to compare herself to the likeness of the virgin, the nine children of the Dedalus household attest to how far from purity Mary Dedalus really is. Cranly cut him short by asking: Has your mother had a happy life? How do I know? Stephen said. How many children had she? Nine or ten, Stephen answered. Some died (Joyce 301) Stephen states that some of Marys children died which further reinforces her faults and fall from purity. If Stephen wasnt able to easily say she had a happy life with her numerous children, it easily shows she struggled with something. This statement, put so close to the revealing of the death of her children gives insight that her struggle had to do with her family. Shortly after the previous conversation, Cranly questions what Stephens father did for work. Stephen revealed that his dad did a lot of everything. The man doing so much more than her speaks to her inadequacy. A medical student, an oarsman, a tenor, an amateur actor, a shouting politician, a small landlord, a small investor, a drinker, a good fellow, a story-teller, somebodys secretary, something in a distillery, a tax-gatherer, a bankrupt and at present a praiser of his own past. (Joyce 301) Marys inadequacy is also intertwined into areas of the book where she isnt mentioned. Mary, a very religious lady, looks up to the trinity as well as the virgin Mary. Though this coming of age story focuses around breaking away from parents and family, Mary Dedalus is hardly ever mentioned. Mary the virgin is written into Mary parts of this story though, leaving Mrs. Dedalus to be lost in the background. Marys religion plays a large role in her life, yet as much as she tries she cant pass that love for religion to her kin. From the earliest time in Stephens life Mary had tried to get him involved in the church. This forcefulness into religion went so far as to send him to a Christian boarding school. Things start to look good as Stephen becomes attracted to the church, but as much as Mary keeps trying to nurture the Christian flame, Stephen falls to corruption and darkness. After an argument between Stephen and his mother about his attendance at Easter mass, he divulges to Cranly that he doesnt believe in the Eucharist. This is the final nail in the coffin of Marys failure as a Christian mother. Do you believe in the Eucharist? Cranly asked. I do not, Stephen said. Do you disbelieve then? I neither believe in it nor disbelieve in it, Stephen answered. (Joyce 299) Stephen does leave some hope for the future in his comment saying he doesnt disbelieve (299), but on the path hes currently taking, he is falling farther and farther from god. Mary while being hardly mentioned in the story plays a large dynamic in Stephens growing up. With her pushing him away into boarding school as a child he wanted to be more family oriented in the priesthood, but as she forced religion more and more upon him he grew to dislike it. Her constant want to be the perfect mother eventually is her folly. It doesnt lead to her downfall but rather that of her son. Bibliography Joyce, James. A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. New York: Viking, 1964. Print.

Management . Hidden value book Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Management . Hidden value book - Essay Example The difference here begins with the CEO who has a whole different outlook on the world of business. He believes that business will flourish only if the customers have respect for the work you do and the goals you have for your company, that this is more than setting goals for increasing revenues but increasing the overall respect by his employees and his customers. He believes that begins with "realistic" goals about accomplishing something with meaning and he does not mean financial goals (OReilly &Pfeffer, 2,000 pg. 121). He believes that any employee can accomplish the goals of the company, if the goals are understood and essentially set by them. He does not look for employees that have great degrees but employees who are enthusiastic about the business and what it should accomplish. He will train them once hired. The company is successful with this goal setting and people policy because the employees are involved. They understand the goals that are set and they are within the locus of their control. Regular people who have a desire to lead and want to drive the company forward are given the opportunity to do that and many accomplish great things. They are all given more responsibility. For example when salespeople are given the ability to write up their orders, they are given more responsibility and with that responsibility comes the success that is driven by success. The CEO is also involved at the ground level as he respects employees and customers, so they respect him. He does not feel he needs to hire degreed employees but dedicated employees. In the past the focus in hiring employees has been to hire the best which at that time meant education and degree, certifications. It was often found though, that these people did not stay long in one place unless there was a great opportunity for improving their status or an ability to move up the ladder in that company. However, most newly trained management would agree with this CEO. You need to put

Aldous Huxleys Brave New World and the Movie Gattaca - Genetic Enginee Essay

Aldous Huxleys Brave New World and the Movie Gattaca - Genetic Engineering and Its Effects on People - Essay Example On the other hand, Gattaca by Niccol seeks to present a biological vision whereby in the future, liberal eugenics drives the society through the selection of potential children through pre-implantation genetic processes. Through this envisioned process, best hereditary traits of the parents are maintained and passed down to their children while comparatively vague traits undergo elimination. Most importantly, the movie shows concern on the effects and consequences of the reproductive technologies that facilitate eugenics. Evidently, both Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and Gattaca by Andrew Niccol seek to enhance and adapt the engineering advancements allowing genetic alteration to produce a new generation of humans. However, both illustrate a certain degree of fear of the outcome as well as the effects resulting from excessive genetic engineering on people. At the outset, evidence shows Dr Lamar’s battle within himself stating human nature as the problem. He says that creation of genetically superior society consequences to snatching away of the rights and dreams of the society born as â€Å"God-children.† This quote clearly illustrates the detrimental idealism behind genetic engineering. Realistically, the story in Gattaca mainly seeks to show how aspects of desire and heart prove to be immeasurable but in an ironic way. Moreover, Lenina in Brave New World quotes that everyone works for everyone else. This quote focuses on insisting on the neutrality of humans even with the attempts to create a difference through genetic alteration. Furthermore, this quote depicts the equality of both â€Å"species,† regardless of caste, to death. Moreover, Gattaca portrays a new world in which everybody, especially the successful, undergoes genetic alteration to perfect their DNA. Vincent further insists on the need for genetic alteration to become successful when he quotes that the normal humans who have not been genetically altered are outcasts with less capability in the real world.  Ã‚  

Assignment 11 (775) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Assignment 11 (775) - Essay Example The pilot project took the setting of art, physics and geometry classes where most of the teachers and students always ignore the connection between such subjects. A new detailed integrated unit of instructions was designed in order to enhance effective collaboration among the teachers. Workshops, meetings and research were used by the teachers to broaden their knowledge of curricular articulation and integrated instructions. Assessment and evaluation were conducted at the end of the learning in order to identify encountered challenged with a view to coming up with viable solutions. The project was deemed successful as it allowed both the teachers and students to enjoy learning as well as improving the intellectual and emotional development of the students. Today, many authors are fascinated by action research as illustrated in their articles and projects. There are several methods proposed by different authors on how action research should be defined, understood and implemented and the important factors to consider from the power of student’s reflection, challenges during the implementation process, the method of assessment, resource and time investment to creation of a portrait of its ideal attributes. As prescribed in this article, integration of instruction requires the collaboration of all aspects of learning such as organization and management, instructions, curriculum, assessment and the culture of the school in order to improve the teaching and learning experience. The application of hands-on activities to link and relate different subject areas such as art, geometry and physics is emphasized in order to increase student comprehension. In action research, the success of education is based on the effectiveness of its curriculum. Changing the curriculum is an advancement of educational progress by modifying the methodology that allows student to interrelate the different disciples they are taught in

Use Of Water In Labour Health And Social Care Essay

Use Of Water In Labour Health And Social Care Essay A report was published in 1992 in The House of Commons regarding the provision of maternity services; it stated that all hospitals make it their policy to make provision wherever possible for women to choose the position which they prefer for labour and birth with the option of a birthing pool where is practicable (House of Commons Health Committee 1992). Water immersion was officially accepted in the UK in 1993 following the publication of the Changing Childbirth report (Department of Heath 1993). This report recommended that a pool facility should be available in all UK maternity units; professional recognition came about when the Royal College of Midwives (RCM, 1994) and the United Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Heath Visiting (UKCC 1994) published statements in 1994 which integrated the immersion in water during labour into the midwifes role. Water immersion is now incorporated in the UK Midwifery Rules and Standards (2004). The current guidelines for labouring in water in Forth Valley are that the woman should be in established labour, determined as cervical dilation of a minimum of 4cm, be at least 37 weeks gestation, the presentation of the fetus should be cephalic and the fetal heart should be within normal parameters of 110 160 beats per minute, any liquor draining should be clear and no opiates should have been administered in the 4 hours proceeding entry to the pool (Paterson Hamilton, 2009). The water temperature should be 37 degrees; this should be checked hourly together with the temperature of the woman to ensure that she is not pyrexial (NICE, 2007). The woman must also have an uncomplicated obstetric history. At present the facility to labour in water is present in Stirling Royal Infirmary however there is currently only 1 labour room with a pool. This means that only 1 woman can labour or give birth in water at a time. All woman are offered the option of a water birth at their booking vis it however whether or not they will be able to labour or give birth in water will be dependant on the pool being vacant when they present in labour. The benefits of labouring in water are plentiful and is recommended in the NICE Guidelines for Intrapartum Care (2007); the buoyancy afforded by water allows the labouring woman to adopt comfortable positions easily and the water also provides a relaxing environment which assists pain relief due to the release of natural endorphins (Medforth et all, 2007). When a woman feels relaxed oxytocin is released which is required for successful contraction of the uterus and progress in labour; the reduction in feelings of stress will inhibit the production of adrenaline which if produced will hinder oxytocin production therefore slowing the progress of labour. Evidence suggests that the use of water in the first stage of labour empowers woman with an increased feeling of control over the situation she is experiencing (Hall Holloway, 1998) it also shown that as the womens perception of pain is reduced the need for epidural analgesia is lessened (Eberhard et all, 2005) as is the need for augme ntation by syntocinon (Cluett et all, 2004). Studies have shown that woman who give birth in the water have a reduced incidence of perineal trauma (Garland and Jones, 2000). This has been further supported by a clinical audit carried out in Corbar birth Centre, Baxter (2006) found that of 229 pool births 38% of woman had an intact perineum, 32% had a first degree tear, 29% sustained a second degree tear and only 1 woman suffered a third degree tear however this was the result of an accelerated second stage labour and the birth of a baby weighing in excess of 4.5 kg. The audit also showed that women who laboured in the pool but did not give birth had a reduced incidence of perineal trauma. Of the 75 woman 32% had a first degree tear, 31% had a second degree tear and again 1 woman suffered a third degree tear however 31% did require an episiotomy. It has been suggested that it is the atmosphere achieved that results in the positive experiences and outcomes for the woman who choose to use the pool through the continuous one to one care of the midwife, the woman centred approach to childbirth thus normalising the birthing experience. The student will now reflect on her experience of a water birth using Gibbs reflective cycle. I came onto an early shift on the 27 February and my mentor and I were allocated the care of a woman in established labour who had decided to labour in water. We entered the room where we were introduced to Sarah and her partner John. Sarah was a primigravida with an uncomplicated obstetric history and had been well throughout her pregnancy, her body mass index of 22 was within normal parameters. The staff midwife we were taking over from gave a handover, detailing what had happened since Sarah had arrived in the ward; Sarahs labour had commenced spontaneously at home at 41 weeks and 8 days gestation, at 2am that morning she had arrived in maternity triage for assessment; at 5am she had been transferred to the labour ward, at this time she was 3cm dilated and struggling to cope with the pain. Sarah wasnt keen to use pain relief other than entonox and the midwife providing her care had read i n her maternity notes that in the past few weeks that she had been considering labouring in water, therefore she suggested Sarah could try using the pool for pain relief; both the advantages and disadvantages were fully explained to Sarah and she was advised that if her own or the fetal condition deteriorated then she would be asked to leave the pool. Before going into the water Sarahs membranes had been ruptured artificially and following the procedure she was 5cm dilated at 6am, therefore she was in active labour and suitable for labouring in water. Upon taking over Sarahs care a set of baseline observations were carried out by myself, including a blood pressure, temperature, pulse and urinalysis. The fetal heart was heard regularly at 120 130 beats per minute (NICE, 2007). I also checked the water temperature which was 37 degrees. All observations were satisfactory; these were noted both on the partogram as well as the labour notes. Observations of temperature and pulse were carried out hourly, the water temperature was checked regularly and Sarahs blood pressure would be checked 4 hourly. The fetal heart was auscultated intermittently using a waterproof Doppler ultrasound. Sarah was using the entonox in the pool and although she was still finding the contractions painful she was coping well. Encouragement was given to Sarah during this time, reassuring her that she was doing fantastically and guidance on using the entonox effectively. The atmosphere in the room was relaxed and calm, John was also giving encouragement. At arou nd 8.30 am, 1 hour after taking over Sarahs care, she said reported that she was experiencing a burning sensation and was feeling the urge to push. The staff midwife put a mirror into the pool and the vertex was found to be visible at this stage. As per the protocol (2009) Sarah was advised to push when she felt the urge but to remember not to raise her bottom out of the water. Encouragement was given to Sarah when she was pushing, but no direction was given as directed pushing is not recommended for birth in water (Baston Hall, 2009). The babys head was delivered approximated 20 minutes later however the babys chin had not been seen as yet. The staff midwife put a hand into the pool to ensure that the chin was free and it was. A live female was delivered with the next contraction and was guided through Sarahs legs as she was in a kneeling position and brought up to her chest. The third stage of labour, the delivery of the placenta, was carried out on a Bradbury mattress as the protocol states that the placenta cannot be delivered in the pool (Paterson Hamilton, 2009). This is due the difficulty in assessing the estimated blood loss in water. Syntometrine was administered intra muscularly by the staff midwife and the placenta was delivered by controlled cord traction approximately 30 minutes after the birth of the baby. Sarah had advised that she would like the cord to stop pulsating before it was cut and clamped therefore Sarah had remained in the water until this had occurred. Sarah had a 2nd degree tear following the delivery and although it was not actively bleeding it was sutured by the staff midwife approximated 1 hour post delivery as is recommended in the guidelines (NHS QIS, 2008). The labour and birth were a beautiful and memorable experience as although it was evident that Sarah was in pain during the labour she was focused on birthing her baby. I felt very satisfied with the delivery as I felt Sarah had received the support and encouragement to have the experience of birth that she had strived for. The delivery underwater is amazing, I felt completely overwhelmed with how natural giving birth in water is as I had never experienced a water birth first hand. When reflecting on the experience I realised that upon taking over Sarahs care I had felt slightly nervous about how hands off a water birth is. The midwife is expected to basically observe both the labour and birth with the exception of carrying out the routine observations, checking and maintaining the temperature of the water and keeping the water as clear as possible with the use of a sieve. Since this experience I feel that the next time I am caring for a woman labouring or birthing in water I will fe el more confident as this is a natural and therapeutic method which increases the focus on normality in childbirth. The use of hydrotherapy has been encouraged as a method of analgesia for many years as a natural alternative to pharmacological pain relief (Jessiman Bryer, 2000). Water provides a dual benefit, heat alleviates muscle spasm and as a result of this pain is reduced and weightlessness lessens the effects of gravity therefore relieving the strain on the pelvis. Sarah was able to adapt her position easily whilst in the pool and spent the majority of her labour in a kneeling position thus facilitating the decent of the fetus (Fraser Cooper, 2009). The NMC (2007:3) states that You must recognise and the respect the contribution that people make to their own care and well being therefore if a woman wishes to labour and give birth in water it is the midwives duty to support her in this choice. Sarah had all the information in order to make an informed choice and felt that she had contributed to the care she received thus enhancing her satisfaction with her experience of labour. Eckert et al l (2001:84) concluded their randomised controlled trial with the outcome that woman who labour and give birth in water appeared more satisfied with their experience as was the case with Sarah. As a midwife advocacy is an important element of the role and it is important that midwives are advocates for the woman in their care in that they empower them with the knowledge to make informed choices regarding the care they receive (Garland, 2000). Although the use of water has been attributed to reduced perception of pain (Baxter, 2006) there is still insufficient evidence to support the use of water and studies have shown that there is no significant difference in the length of labour, blood loss or Apgar scores at birth (Cluett Burns, 2009). There have also been concerns surrounding the conditions of the neonate born in water; yet as stated there has been no evidence found to support this. In fact Thoni and Moroder (2004:47) have stated that a water birth presented no risk to the adaption of the neonate to extra-uterine life. It is however vital that the woman is removed from the water should the maternal or fetal condition become compromised (Geissbuehler et all, 2004). There was also the question of maternal and fetal hyperthermia; the suggestion that the woman should decide the temperature of the water (Anderson, 2004) was rejected when NICE (2007) advised that the water temperature should be below 37.5 degrees. It has h owever been shown that entry into the pool in the latent first phase of labour can be detrimental to progress, Eriksson (1997) found that woman who entered the pool at this stage had increased augmentation of labour as well as increased requirement for epidural analgesia, hence the protocol in Forth Valley that woman should be in established labour prior to entering the pool (Paterson Hamilton, 2009). In conclusion, it appears that there is currently insufficient evidence to support the positive effects of hydrotherapy in labour and birth; its use has been proven to have a relaxing effect on labouring woman who have reported feeling more satisfied with their experience. Evidence suggests that labouring in water does not make a significant difference to the length of labour; however the fact that the women who choose this method of pain relief report increased fulfilment should not be over looked. Further research would provide an evidence base for best practice. At present only women with an uncomplicated obstetric history are permitted entry to a birthing pool and further research is required to enable women with a variety of obstetric backgrounds to utilise a pool confidently. The question of the environment attained through hydrotherapy has arisen; do women feel increased satisfaction due to the woman centred, one to one approach to care received? It seems that this is a signif icant factor, and one which great emphasis should be placed upon. The role of the midwife is to be with women; this requires the midwife to be an advocate for the women in her care, it also requires her to provide the women with information to make informed choices regarding their care and to treat every woman as an individual, with individual concerns and needs. If hydrotherapy provides a platform for a natural approach to childbirth then it is one that should be encouraged.

Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? Essay exa

Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? Introduction Tatum’s book â€Å"Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?† (1997) analyses the development of racial identity and the influence of racism in American’s culture. She emphasizes the Black-White interactions by comparing the terminology in which racism perceived based on David Wellman’s definition of racism. Tatum also believes racism is not one person in particular but is a cultural situation in which ethnicity assigns some groups significantly privileged compared to others. She illustrates how engaging children in terms of interracial understanding will empower them to respond to racial stereotypes and systems of discrimination. Talking about Racism Tatum: The author states racism is all around us and we should talk about racial discrimination. Throughout her book she explains the hesitation people have about talking about racialism. She argues that people are silent out of fear of being impolite, indiscreet and infringing boundaries. Response: I find the statement people are silent out of fear to be true. I try to avoided conversations that could offend someone or could be misinterpret. It reminds of a conversation with a friend one time. We were watching the movie â€Å"Lion King† when he jokingly compared me to the laughing Hyena. I jokingly compared him to voodoo witchdoctor which happens to be a monkey. To my surprise, he asked, â€Å"Did you pick the monkey because I was Black?† I was so embarrassed and ashamed when I hurt his feelings, I never thought of it as a racial comparison. Although we laughed it off, it still bothered me that I hurt his feelings. Just this week I thought I might of offended someone because I was reading Tatum’s... ...at it means to be Black. Does that not still divide the lines of humanity based on the color of a person’s skin? I thank statements like, â€Å"race-conscious† parents teaching their children to be Black is forming prejudice. I teach my children to be kind to others not what means to be White. In interracial relationships if they have a child what should the child be taught? How to be black or white because I thank it is true, children are taught racial differences by their parents and other adults. Personally, I find most mixed racial children are the perfect skin color we all try to achieve. I am not sure I would recommend Tatum’s book to read to discourage racism even though she raises some valid points. Works Cited Tatum, B. D. (1997). Why are all the Black kids sitting together in the cafeteria? And other conversations about race. New York, NY: Basic Books. Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? Essay exa Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? Introduction Tatum’s book â€Å"Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?† (1997) analyses the development of racial identity and the influence of racism in American’s culture. She emphasizes the Black-White interactions by comparing the terminology in which racism perceived based on David Wellman’s definition of racism. Tatum also believes racism is not one person in particular but is a cultural situation in which ethnicity assigns some groups significantly privileged compared to others. She illustrates how engaging children in terms of interracial understanding will empower them to respond to racial stereotypes and systems of discrimination. Talking about Racism Tatum: The author states racism is all around us and we should talk about racial discrimination. Throughout her book she explains the hesitation people have about talking about racialism. She argues that people are silent out of fear of being impolite, indiscreet and infringing boundaries. Response: I find the statement people are silent out of fear to be true. I try to avoided conversations that could offend someone or could be misinterpret. It reminds of a conversation with a friend one time. We were watching the movie â€Å"Lion King† when he jokingly compared me to the laughing Hyena. I jokingly compared him to voodoo witchdoctor which happens to be a monkey. To my surprise, he asked, â€Å"Did you pick the monkey because I was Black?† I was so embarrassed and ashamed when I hurt his feelings, I never thought of it as a racial comparison. Although we laughed it off, it still bothered me that I hurt his feelings. Just this week I thought I might of offended someone because I was reading Tatum’s... ...at it means to be Black. Does that not still divide the lines of humanity based on the color of a person’s skin? I thank statements like, â€Å"race-conscious† parents teaching their children to be Black is forming prejudice. I teach my children to be kind to others not what means to be White. In interracial relationships if they have a child what should the child be taught? How to be black or white because I thank it is true, children are taught racial differences by their parents and other adults. Personally, I find most mixed racial children are the perfect skin color we all try to achieve. I am not sure I would recommend Tatum’s book to read to discourage racism even though she raises some valid points. Works Cited Tatum, B. D. (1997). Why are all the Black kids sitting together in the cafeteria? And other conversations about race. New York, NY: Basic Books.

Genetic Engineering in Humans Essay

?Genetic Engineering in Humans: How the concerns of the past shape our thoughts for the future It is human nature to be fascinated by the unknown, to conceive radical ideas and to use humanity’s undying curiosity to fuel investigation into areas which previously were a mystery. Genetic engineering in humans is one such example of a field whose idea emerged countless generations ago and intrigued the likes of many scientists, philosophers and writers, throughout history. However not until the technological revolution of the twentieth century, did the research and ethical debate on this subject begin to take a more practical perspective, as the tools necessary to study the intricacies of living structures were developed. The concept of genetic engineering has sparked an ongoing debate regarding the bioethical concerns of this field, which focus strongly on the ethics involved in tampering with the work of Mother Nature and its possible consequences. However this has not been a topic for scientists alone. Throughout history, the minds of fictional literature have provided countless examples of a genetically engineered world; in several cases presenting a dystopian rendition of society, a clear symbol of what they believe to be the consequence of human intervention with the natural discourse of nature. The ethical issues surrounding human genetic engineering, such as genetic discrimination, a loss of human autonomy and the more profound concepts which threaten to redefine what it means to be a human, have universal value, paralleling the concerns of today. This suggests the paramount significance of exploring ethical issues and the consequences of human genetic engineering, as history implies that such concepts will continue to resonate through time. This essay will examine how the literary texts of the past have helped shape our ethical perspective on genetic engineering today. In essence genetic engineering is the manipulation of an organism’s hereditary material [1]. The goal in creating such genetically altered beings is not only to eradicate disease, but to create a population which carries only the most desirable physical and behavioural traits and has the ability to pass on such traits to future generations [3]. However the treatment of diseases does not create public anxiety, rather it is the concept of eugenics and gene determinism. Eugenics is essentially ‘any attempt to accelerate human evolution by improving the genetic makeup of humans† [1]. Eugenics however cannot succeed unless society accepts some degree of the genetic determinism ideology which perceives that all individuals are â€Å"inevitable consequences of the biochemical properties of their cells† and so their â€Å"characteristics are uniquely determined by the constituents of their genes† [1]. Ethically this theory seeks to disregard the true essence of human self definition and integrity, eliminating the significance of such immaterial characteristics as self awareness, will power and human spirit. Additionally, an ethical problem surrounding eugenics is that it is human directed evolution, where individuals set the course of evolution depending on chosen ‘desirable’ and ‘undesirable’ traits. As philosopher Jurgen Habermas states â€Å"it seems reasonable to allow this in the case of a purely preventive intervention in order to avert diseases (â€Å"negative eugenics†). It becomes questionable, however, when it is a case of fitting out a child with certain desirable characteristic (â€Å"positive eugenics†) [1]. This statement alludes to several ethical dilemmas which can arise from a society thriving on the application of positive eugenics. From a virtue ethics standpoint, the application of positive eugenics suggests that the accessibility of genetic manipulation will be limited to those parents who can afford it, thus creating discrimination between sectors of society. If a technology is available to eliminate disease and achieve a â€Å"better† quality of life, should it not be available to all individuals in so to create an egalitarian society which is indiscriminate? Furthermore, how does the implications of such a technology impact upon the individuals sense of privacy and individualism? A world of positive eugenics would suggest an adoption of the gene determinist theory which proposes that all traits and behaviour are ingrained within our genes and thus are not influenced by any other external factors. In such a world, genetic analysis would be open, rendering a complete breakdown of the moral boundaries which hide our genetic makeup from the outside world. People could be tested, controlled and manipulated when access of their hereditary material is in the hands of others, violating their right to privacy. George Wald offers one view of the ethical debate stating that, â€Å"[genetic engineering] faces our society with problems unprecedented†¦ It places in human hands the capacity to redesign living organisms†¦ It presents probably the largest ethical problem that science has ever had to face† [7]. However scientist James D. Watson claims that â€Å"until a tiger devours you, you don’t know that the jungle is dangerous† [7]. In essence, there is a conflict of interest between the possibility of eradicating life threatening diseases and the ethical consequences which may arise from using the technology to alter the evolutionary process for mankind’s own benefit. As a society we must see this as a cost-benefit analysis, where we weigh the proposed advantages of genetic engineering against the possible and in many cases unforseen, consequences. Profoundly the main issue is of self-definition. From an ethical perspective, the true essence of human nature is challenged by the proposed applications of genetic engineering. With these ethical issues in mind, we can see that certain measures must be taken to contain the ethical consequences of genetic engineering to a manageable level and not let the technology overcome our sense of self, compassion and humanity. This will only be successful however, if the key issues are examined prior to genetic engineering becoming mainstream, as when such technology is unleashed to the public it cannot be uninvented. Therefore those in the field of science and engineering must ensure that their research and experimentation adheres to all regulations outlined in the Code of Ethics. Engineering practitioners must â€Å"act on the basis of a well informed conscience† [8] as well as â€Å"respect the dignity of all persons† [8] when carrying out research and experimentation. When faced with unique bioethical concerns emerging from previously uncharted areas of technology, society turns to the scientists and engineers to offer their technocratic decision regarding the new concept. This is the case presently faced by genetic engineering. The engineer in this situation becomes a model of a guardian, social servant and social enabler to humanity, who not only predicts the direction this field will take in the future, but analyses the potential consequences of genetic engineering and helps society to understand its own needs and develop moral autonomy. In this way the engineer is governed by strict ethical codes to â€Å"be honest and trustworthy† [8] as well as â€Å"practise engineering to foster the health, safety and wellbeing of the community and the environment† [8] as well as other stakeholders involved. It can be useful to explore such notions in literature, where the scientist or engineer has experimented without considering the potential consequences of their actions, resulting in an imbalance of the natural order of life. Such is the case in Mary Shelly’s ‘Frankenstein’, where the experimenter did not â€Å"act on the basis of adequate knowledge† [8] as the Code of Ethics outlines, but instead allowed human curiosity to rule, tampering with inanimate organisms to produce new a life form. The strong ethical dilemma posed by this novel is that when such organisms are created what are their rights and how do we determine their humanity? The situation developed in Frankenstein is one of blind sightedness, where the unforeseen consequences of the social experimentation are so detrimental to society that they eventually become the undoing of the experimenter. The text explores the ethical ideas that society should uphold certain virtues when dealing with Mother Nature and that the organisms we alter have certain rights just like other member of society. Most significantly however, it highlights how important the duty of the engineer is to society; to warn and to educate on the possible consequences of new technology and application. The Frankenstein story warns us that the time to address the ethical implications of genetic engineering is before we actually apply it [1]. Furthermore, science fiction literature provides an interesting insight into how the world has perceived genetic engineering and its consequences in a social and cultural sense. The idea of direct genetic control for the â€Å"betterment† of humanity started with evolutionary geneticist, J. B. S. Haldane’s book ‘Daedalus’, in 1924 [1]. The ethical consequences of genetic engineering are explored extensively in texts such as Andrew Niccol’s movie Gattaca (1997) and Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World (1932). Haldane’s vision is sharply satirized in these texts, reflective of the view society had taken after the fall of the eugenics movement in the 1930s. These texts are significant in our understanding of what might happen to society through gene determinism and the absolute acceptance and application of genetic engineering, as scientists at the Gene Therapy Policy Conference in 1997 â€Å"concluded that the possibilities [of germ line gene therapy] aren’t entirely in the realm of science fiction† [1]. Furthermore, the ethical issues discussed in these texts are repetitive, although being from different time periods. This suggests the significance and universality of the ethical risks associated with genetic engineering. The movie Gattaca released in 1997 is a bioethical text which explores the societal implications of genetic-determinism and genetic engineering and gives light to the consequences which may occur from new eugenics. Gattaca raises the issue that many problems associated with the new eugenics, such as genetic discrimination, genetic prophecy, and the homogenization of society [1] is not due to the technology itself, but instead these problems arise only if society accepts the belief that individuals are no more than the sum of their genes. In essence it challenges the notion of genetic determinism. Similarly Huxley within his dystopian novel, Brave New World, explores the ramifications of a society that has rejected Mother Nature in all forms and instead is governed by â€Å"controllers†, who dictate how, when and on whom genetic manipulation should be applied, with the overall goal to achieve absolute stability of a toaliatrian state. In this world, Individualism becomes non-existent and a sense of human integrity is eliminated, resulting in complete totalitarian control, in essence â€Å"a pessimistic accounting of the shape a scientifically planned community would take, of its sterility and human emptiness† [4]. One of the most crucial ethical concerns is the dilemma of genetic discrimination against those who are genetically unenhanced. Genetic engineering in humans implies that we can create an elite race of human beings which are superior to the common man or control genetic engineering in such a way as to create groups of altered beings each with predetermined roles in society. Arguably this gives rise to significant ethical concerns, especially in areas of reproduction where parents can alter the genetic makeup of an embryo before birth. While this is seen as an advantage in the scope of eliminating genes coding for certain diseases, it suggests a violation of humanitarian rights and discrimination between those who can afford the technology and those who cannot so that â€Å"a large fraction of human beings will be the victims of the omissions and commissions of science because they lack the material wealth and the social power to control their own lives† [1], as stated by evolutionary geneticist Richard Lewontin. Arguably this will differentiate people in the matter of career advancement and social relationships [3]. This is a prominent concept in Gattaca, as the protagonist despite being a suitable candidate for a job position is discriminated due to his unenhanced form, stating that in a world of genetic determinism â€Å"the best test score in the world wasn’t going to matter unless I had the blood test to go with it† [1]. As well as this, genetic enhancement challenges the concept of virtue ethics. If we have the power to combine all desirable traits together to enhance and elevate ourselves above other individuals, is it morally permissible to do so and will this lead to greater vanity and commercialism in mankind? Additionally how does this affect our relationship with others who either oppose the technology or cannot afford the luxury of such enhancement? Furthermore, genetic engineering in humans alludes to the development of new class structure within society which will widen the gap between the enhanced and unenhanced even further, questioning the right of all individuals to an equal quality of life. Discrimination of individuals has always been a universal predominant concern and significant measures are taken to protect the rights and welfare of citizens in society. Modern society in particular supports and appreciates the significance of egalitarianism. This has not been an easy venture for mankind as history shows us that previous class structures were difficult to dissolve and even today are not extinct. With genetic engineering and genetic discrimination however, the argument emerges that although we have made it illegal to discriminate people on the basis of race, religion and sex, by genetically engineering them we give rise to a new form of discrimination, one not so easily detectable, as Vincent in Gattaca states â€Å"it’s illegal to discriminate on the basis of genetics—genoism it’s called—but no one takes the laws seriously† [1]. These concerns are mirrored in Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, where he demonstrates the stringent societal class order where Individuals are predetermined to be alpha, beta, gamma, delta or epsilons and are thus classified in the societal ladder as such. Each class has different genetic traits so to ensure they can carry out their predetermined role in society and are conditioned to enjoy their fate. Huxley presents such a blatant view of genetic discrimination to highlight the complete loss of individuals’ rights, free thinking and the ineffectiveness of those in power to carry out their duties to the public. The major ethical dilemma extends from the concept of utilitarianism, in which certain individuals have taken it upon themselves to control what all aspects of life for the â€Å"greater good of society†. This abolishes all concepts of virtue ethics as in a state of totalitarianism, individuals are discriminated against before they are born and have a chance to prove their worth, as Huxley demonstrates with the lower classes of society, who through gene manipulation are genetically stunted to ensure they will forever remain at the bottom rung of society. The prominence of genetic discrimination as one of the key ethical concerns in these texts highlights the fact that our societal problems are so universal that regardless of how or in which way society changes, the ethical implications of classism will inherently be the same although inflicted in a new form. Therefore a mechanism to sustain egalitarianism in society and retain the rights and freedom of individuals must be developed before we allow genetic engineering to become a stronghold in society, as although we may be advancing forward technologically, ethically we will be taking a step backwards. Additionally, genetic engineering in humans raises the profound ethical concern of losing one’s individuality in a genetically altered world and by extension losing moral autonomy. Genetically altered individuals would see themselves as a product of the deliberate intervention of others, giving rise to the misconception of self integrity. This ethical issue causes raises concerns of homogenous societies, which would violate the engineer’s Code of Ethics to â€Å"support and encourage diversity† [8]. This notion is explored extensively in Brave New World, which abolishes the importance of individualism and demonstrates the ways in which those who have access to gene altering technology can utilise it unethically for their own benefit. As a result we must question not only our self integrity but also who should be responsible for determining what traits can be modified. Here the ethical concern stems from the argument that those with the knowledge to implement the technology may reject the previous moral doctrines and create their own, based on their perception of moral relativism [5]. Huxley supports the view that individuals of a utilitarian predisposition will govern the world believing it is done for the â€Å"greater good of humanity†. Additionally, from the perspective of rights ethics, individuals in this world â€Å"†¦are refused any opportunity to plan their own property, change their role, rank or employment in society. Or even live permanently with another person of their choice† [4], thus rendering the rights of the individual non-existent. Additionally the government enforces strict utilitarian ideology, as it â€Å"believes that stability can be achieved if people think and look the same† [4]; and in doing so, these control agents fail to uphold their duties to their citizens, demonstrating a complete lack of respect for human value and dignity. This ethical concern of losing one’s autonomy and individualism is of paramount importance; as different civilisations throughout history have struggled to obtain freedom and a sense of identity. The portrayal of these notions in the mentioned texts, demonstrate that there is no compromise for humanity’s free will and sense of individuality, as this is seen as a basic humanitarian right. As a result, our support or rejection of human genetic engineering will focus on our examination on how this field will impose on our rights as human beings and free thinking individuals. Perhaps the most profound ethical concern regarding genetic engineering is the questioning of what it means to be human and if genetic engineering results in dehumanisation, destroying the concept of humanity as we know it? In a genetically altered world, do we define genetically engineered beings as human if they have no flaws? Such ethical questions challenge our perception of what makes us human and force us to examine whether there is a necessity in genetically altering ourselves if the advantages do not outweigh the possible consequences, as it can be argued that not every scientific advance automatically makes our lives more â€Å"meaningful† [6]. Both Huxley and Niccol examine this profound ethical concern in their texts, providing the conclusion that although we may alter our genetic makeup, we cannot alter the primal, immaterial characteristics of human beings such as our emotional vulnerability. Thus emotional variability, self awareness, will power and human spirit are all subject to human autonomy and while these remain we do not lose our integrity. In essence it is a rejection of the gene determinism ideology as we do not define our individuality on the basis of genetic makeup, since â€Å"there is no gene for the human spirit† [1]. In Gattaca, the essence of humanity is portrayed through the unenhanced Vincent, who overcomes his genetic heritage through shear motivation and will power, demonstrating that these qualities cannot be engineered, emerging instead from an individual’s motivation when confronted with the challenge of a specific context or environment. In this sense it is Vincent’s flaws which fuel his determination and lead to his ultimate success, not his genes. This is contrasted against the genetically enhanced characters, who suffer form the burden of perfection, as Gattaca poses the ethical dilemma that the expectations put upon the genetically enhanced to live up to their genetics are almost as debilitating as the discrimination against the unenhanced [1]. However the individual who has been engineered with no flaws, has nothing to overcome and no apparent need to improve, thus lacking the traits of will power and motivation that Vincent possessed. This is similar to the genetically engineered characters of Bernard and Helmholtz in Brave New World. They are dissatisfied with the limitations their â€Å"stable† society imposes, despite undergoing full conditioning [6]. These examples suggest that individual desires cannot be suppressed with social intervention and although genetic engineering may eliminate imperfections and flaws, it comes at price, which is that of emotional awareness and human spirit. Additionally, the most philosophical ethical concerns arise from a theoretical examination of how genetic engineering may influence the evolutionary process in the future. Genetic manipulation can be seen as a mechanism to aid humanity in adapting to new environmental conditions. Therefore in terms of evolutionary progress, we must question where genetic engineering places us. Are we speeding up the process of evolution or are we simply providing a new form of natural selection, one which is better suited to our technologically advanced context? So that over time, humanity as we know it will become non-existent having made way for the â€Å"superior† genetically enhanced beings. In the future if genetic engineering became widespread in society, will survival be dependent upon the extent and type of our genetic enhancement and if so, who governs these moral â€Å"absolutes†? Although not practical, these are interesting ethical dilemmas to consider. Essentially, we are approaching a point in history where we have the technology and the expertise to alter our genetic makeup in ways which seemed unthinkable even a decade ago [7]. Genetic engineering provides many advantages to human life such as eradicating disease and eliminating undesirable traits, however it also raises serious bioethical concerns such as those examined in Gattaca and Brave New World. We cannot restrict the advancement of science; rather we need to develop moral boundaries so that we can recognize the value of science without devaluing those who it is intended to serve [2]. Flaws in human genetic engineering cannot be undone and thus a serious examination of the possible ethical implications and consequences need to be determined by the scientist and engineers, so that this technology does not have a detrimental impact on future generation. List of References [1] Kirby, D 2000, The New Eugenics in Cinema: Genetic Determinism and Gene Therapy in GATTACA, Science fiction Studies, accessed 3rd October 2013, [2] Gleghorn, M 2001, Putting the Brakes on Human Genetic Engineering: Are We Speeding toward a Brave New World? Probe Ministries, accessed 1st October 2013 [3] D, P 2012, Loss of Privacy and Sense of Self, Desperado Philosophy, accessed 19th October 2013 [4] Gehlhaus, Jr R 1998, Brave New World: The Cost of Stability, Soma Web, accessed 29th September 2013 [5] Brave New World (1932), Literature & Film Search, assessed 12th October 2013, Bottom of F [6] Shakespeare, T 2000, Brave New World II, The Guardian, accessed 2nd October 2013 [7] Epstein, R1999, Ethical Dangers of Genetic Engineering, Institute for World Religions & San Francisco State University, accessed 2nd October 2013 [8] â€Å"Our Code of Ethics†, 2010, Engineer’s Australia, accessed 10th October 2013

Causes of American Revolution essays

Causes of American Revolution essays Life in the colonies, up to 1775 was undisturbed by Britain. Britain had been fighting wars in both Europe and North America, so they didnt concern themselves with the Colonies. When the wars were over Britain was in great debt and they decided to impose taxes on those that they governed, which extended all the way to the Colonies. Although the taxes werent extremely high it made the Colonists mad. They refused to let a country thousands of miles away tax them. Some of the tax acts that were imposed on them were the Stamp Act, the Quartering Act and the Sugar Act. They argued no taxation without representation. The Colonies were also ready to become their own nation, to break away from Britain. They wanted international recognition from countries around the world. ...

Disney Essays

Disney Essays Disney Paper Disney Paper 1. Tentpole movies are defined as the films that support for the financial performance of the movie studio. Disney studio pursuing tentpole strategy which revolved at least eight vast movies per year and receive massive attraction within less period by obtaining highest marketing budget, highest production budget with successful theoretical release such as Frozen in 2013. Disney studios accept mixed existing and new properties without co-financing. Disney studio focused in to producing and marketing side through making big budget movies and expected to produce at least one tentpole film each of five studio brands under the Disney studio. The main reasons of producing tentpole movies of Disney studio are good performance in the market place and having a large crowd as brand deposits. Disney studio care about to hold shareholders when producing big budget movies without losing significant amount of money. There is an issue about releasing dates of tentpole movies with other competitors. Big budget movies could have a significant financial loss when competitor studios release tentpole movies on the same period. Tentpole movies are inherently risky because of high financial failure possibility (Swift 2013). In my opinion, Disney studio pursuing the right number of tentpoles by identifying audience expectations and keeping a reasonable time gap between the big budget movies. If they exceed rather than current number of tentpole movies per year, it couldn’t be able to keep the demand and quality of the movies and it might affect to financial condition as well. However, Tentpole strategy is fulfilled when they have intellectual property, ability to afford to do it and having courage to do it. Disney studio conducting the right mix of new versus existing properties. They have proven that by achieving financial improvements through franchise such as Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Consequently, Disney studio could enhance financial performance having better decisions on movies releasing dates, keeping their own versions and conducting proper gap between movies. 2. Film development process characterised as live action and Animation movies. Live action movies begin with an idea; development department of each studio research film ideas within a series of potential projects, it forward to a greenlight decision to produce that movie or not. Generally, it arises with certain conditions and certain budget. Once the film received the green light, forward into the production process. Creative executives assessing physical performances for casts. Director help to find a best character by keeping a better communication with actors. After production process, film is ready to release but it could take few years. Animation movies also starting with an idea; consider the iconoclastic, brilliant and creativity of the film idea before decision. After researching about film idea, film makers start to lay out the arc of story. Director create a script with the help of screenwriters. After the 4th draft, start to release ideas for the production process to figure out animated characters. Animators create scenes by manipulating three dimensional models of characters and adjusting lighting and camera angles by using special software. Finally release the movie to the audience after the processing period. In the marketing process, Disney studio release movies to secure screens in theatres and distribution division work with exhibitors. Comparing to other studios, Disney having an overwhelming advantage in the marketplace. Disney movies target happiness and fulfilment of both children and adults (Chyrty 2012). Movies marketing process is expensive; tentpole movies releases cost around $70 million on average, spend money on Television, radio, outdoor and online. Exhibitors allow to play trailers in theatres. Half of the advertising cost spend before the releasing date to highlight the film. There are significant risks involve with Disney’s strategy. Disney studio produced many tentpole movies nearly twice, but some movies rivals. Extremely cost box office failures could happen such as critical, commercial disappointments on ‘Treasure planet, Home on the range’ movie. No co-financing policy of Disney studio avoid the help of other financial partners. It is difficult to realise the proper balance between pursuing existing franchises and new original concepts, although it is critical to long term success. Changes of technology and increasing media networks are other risks that can affect to Disney media network (Dholakia Schroeder 2001). Disney studio could have optimised the returns by identifying audience expectations and allocate those expectations to film ideas and selecting best actor to the cast. Catmull (2008) stated that create something original achieve the certainty. To avoid the financial risk, they can have pursued franchise base more. Update with new technology will strong the innovation process. Consequently, implement strategy could minimise risk effectively by reducing cost and gaining competitive advantages. 3. The world’s largest entertainment conglomerate is The Walt Disney company (Elberse 2016). To study organisational culture, Disney is the perfect example because it has clear mission and vision that they conducting already (Curtis 2016). The culture of the Disney studio could be defined as a strong co-operated teamwork with combination of creative, innovative and profitable entertaining experience. The co-values of the Disney studio are important in the culture of the organization. Values of employees are great resources to build a strong production and it enhance the success rate of the company. Employees effectively share recourses by working together leading to achieve highest grossing income and box office success by identifying audience expectations. Disney studios following strong strategies to not allowing horror, comedy, sex, violence and smoking in their movies. Disney animation film innovation is the major turning point in the innovation history (Rojek 2006). In 2013, releasing Frozen to the audience, Disney shows that they have highly succeed in the animation challenge becoming top grossing animated film and winning two Academy awards for the best animated feature. In the Disney culture, adding creative energy, taste and quality for their productions enhance the uniqueness for creations. Giving priority to the quality; the best business plan of them, wait until get the best idea to produce. Long lag period between originals and sequels keep demand of the movies for more period. For example, Finding Dory released 13 years after the predecessor, Finding Nemo. Especially, in new employer training, employees support each other very effectively. Disney studio has identified new technologies in the film market such as 3D technology and applied them to movies. With a combination of media networks, Parks and resorts, studio entertainment and consumer productions and interactives reached remarkable revenues become succussing in the financial stage. In conclusion, Disney studio is effective entertaining business which has creativity, innovation, remarkable financial profitability and strong supportive team work as per their culture. Consequently, applying a balance approach to innovation and cost saving will increase revenues.

Media Ownership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Media Ownership - Essay Example The essay "Media Ownership" talks about the position and power of media in the society and in the country and if its ownership and functioning should be more strictly regulated by laws. Naturally, the media has been tagged as an avenue for entertaining, informing and educating the public. This is a generalized conception that has been accepted and practiced in several areas of the world. But there cannot also be any denial of the fact that in some other parts of the world and in realistic scenarios, the media have been a platform for the promotion of social injustice, misinformation, hyping of political tension, incitement of violence and so on. Lately, and with the introduction of social media, much discussion has even gone on about sanity on the various media platform in adherence of core moral and social values. With all such concerns, the ownership of media cannot be left unattended and so the ownership of media should indeed be well regulated and if possible limited. Presently in America, there is a developing trend where a lot of foreign nationals have taken over the ownership and running of media houses. The activities of such foreign nationals and global corporations are seen in the operation of media outlets including newspapers, television, and radio. Such freedoms lead to the deepening of freedom democratic practice of the American press. Though there are also the negative effects, which includes the use of such global corporations in the sabotage of the core aims, visions, and aspirations of the American people.

Environmentally Friendly Electric Car Project Case Study

Environmentally Friendly Electric Car Project - Case Study Example Other highly topical items driving the debate include steadily rising prices for traditional fuels used to power vehicles. As the focus of the activities of University Research Group 2, the electric car, with its inherent environmental friendliness, has distinct advantages to offer to the transport market. With the family saloon sector in mind, the electric car has a number of immediate advantages: safety and convenience coming from battery- or solar-power; efficiency from the flexible power of electric motors; economy using the duality of the electric motor and electric generator (Her Electric Vehicle, 2008). In addition, with urban traffic restrictions looming and already in place in London (Edmunds, 2007), the electric car is well placed in terms of practically zero pollution and reduced noise of operation. In a society where transport habits are still centred around the car and other means such as public transport, walking and cycling take a back seat, the electric car promises much as a solution that responds to both the consumer's needs and desires. Car manufacturers themselves seem to have some difficulty in gauging the size of the market. ... Even the major players like Toyota, a leader in hybrid electric-petrol-engine vehicles admits that "we just don't yet know the size of that market" (Calcars, 2007). The main competitor for Toyota, General Motors, recently announced plans to launch its own electric saloon car, the Volt (a PHEV - plug-in hybrid electric vehicle), with a stated 60,000 vehicles for the initial launch year (Green, 2007). Closer to home here in the UK, the specialist car company Th!nk (sic) has made public their goal to produce and sell 9,000 electric cars to sell in the UK as well as Switzerland, Norway and Denmark (Winnie, 2008). Extrapolating from these numbers suggests that the UK market for electric cars for the private consumer runs to some 48,000 units per year at the moment, of which Th!nk is aiming to capture 14%. Competition Competition in this market can be categorised in three ways. Firstly, the direct competition from other companies and organisations similar to University Research Group 2: in other words, specialists in this market, typified for example by Th!nk. Secondly, by the major car manufacturers operating on a global basis who have launched mainly hybrid models but appear to be moving towards a pure BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) offering. General Motors is an example, as is Nissan and Toyota. Thirdly, there are the other competing elements including but not limited to petrol and diesel engine vehicles as well as low consumer awareness (ILEA, 2001). Macro environmental factors - PESTEL model overview In order to analyse and evaluate the development of the market, the potential for an electric car from University Research Group 2 and how this should be presented to the market, we use PESTEL (political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, legal and