Thursday, December 26, 2019

Is Global Skepticism Justified Essay - 1625 Words

Is Global Skepticism Justified? Introduction Skepticism is something that we all have to one degree or another. Some of us who carry some Limited (Local) Skepticism might question whether we can really know if the news anchor is giving us correct information or if the five day forecast is really on track this time regarding the rain it is predicting. Others subscribe to the Global Skepticism view; that is, they would argue that we cannot know anything at all, and, therefore, we can’t have knowledge of anything (Feldman 109). As a global skeptic, we would not only challenge the same things that limited skeptics confront, but we would challenge the very essence of our being. If this form of skepticism is valid, we would have to reexamine†¦show more content†¦Could this be convincing enough to lead us to believe that we really could have knowledge of anything at all? Problem Being Solved This paper will address the problem of skepticism. My focus will be exclusively on Global Skepticism as it is more controversial than Local Skepticism. The stance I am seeking to persuade you to take is one regarding the question of whether or not Global Skepticism is justified. In this paper I will discuss and analyze what other philosophers have said about the topic, my argument, how my opponents might object to my arguments, and how I respond to those objections. My hope is the conclusion to my argument will convince you that Global Skepticism is not justified and we can, in fact, come to ‘know’ things about our reality and obtain knowledge. What others have said about the topic I mentioned Rene Descartes earlier in my writing and want to unpack his thinking a little more. In â€Å"Meditation on the First Philosophy,† Descartes starts to question whether he can really tell the difference between being asleep and being awake. He says the following: â€Å"Let us then suppose* that we are dreaming, and that these particular things (that we have our eyes open, are moving our head, stretching out our hands) are not true; and that perhaps we do not even have hands or the rest of a body like what we see. It must nonetheless be admitted that the things we see in sleep are, so to speak, paintedShow MoreRelatedGlobal Epistemological Skepticism Essay1132 Words   |  5 Pages Epistemological skepticism is the idea that individuals lack knowledge or justification for a specific group of propositions (Barnett, 2014). Skepticism with respect to all propositions is known as global skepticism, and it reveals that knowledge is nonexistent (2014). The regress problem is a difficulty in epistemology, where an idea has to be justified, because the justification itself has to have further reasoning (2014). The infinite regress argument concludes that individuals lack justificationRead MoreCondi Reflection954 Words   |  4 Pagesbeginning, I saw potential. In their unrest, I saw dreaming, dreams of being more than they were. I laid out my vision for them. There were grumbles, skepticism, and negativity. They did not see my vision: they were unconvinced. I did not push hard, but I got involved in their work and began pressing their limits. I was able to use Global Diversity. My team came from different upbringings, but I looked for their diverse similarities and found ways to bring them together leveraging my backgroundRead MoreThe Skeptic Theory of Morality in International Relations Essay1398 Words   |  6 Pagesinterest of the state. During that I will give a brief explanation of Skepticism as a theory of morality in international relations. Following that I will explore ethics in the Morality of States and Cosmopolitan schools of thought in comparison to Skepticism. Skepticism: Skepticism, often known as realism, is one of the oldest perspectives to observe ethics in international relations. The basic premise of international skepticism is that states are selfish actors and when necessary, a state shouldRead MoreOn Epistemology and Skepticism Essay1687 Words   |  7 Pagesproposition. As Gettier established the Justified True Belief as a conceptual formula for knowledge, certainty can be understood with the proper perspective and background. The certainty principle explains that knowledge requires evidence to be â€Å"sufficient† to rule out the possibility of error. This means that what we determine to be acknowledged as â€Å"knowledge† must present justification in order to be accepted believed as knowledge. This is important because Skepticism doubts the validation of knowledgeRead MoreRhetorical Analysis Of Cogito Ergo Sum : I Think Therefore, I Am1613 Words   |  7 PagesDescartes’ paradigm-shifting assertion that the foun dational belief and the only purely true instance of knowledge we possess is that we are a thinking thing and our mind’s ability to think is true. This is the quintessential belief of Cartesian skepticism, or whether we can know anything with certainty, and is achieved through a perspective of understanding external world knowledge rooted in doubting wholeheartedly what our senses say is true. Renà © Descartes’ Discourse on Method and Meditations onRead MoreJan Narveson s Moral Matters1618 Words   |  7 Pagesbook is his view of global poverty. Narveson extends foundationalist, anarcho-capitalist approach to this issue; arguing that while charity is morally virtuous, there is no moral obligation on the part of the global rich or developed nation to alleviate the global poor from their precarious position. He also argues that by continuing free trade, enough economic growth will occur to relieve the global poor regardless. *This essay will elaborate on Narveson s pos ition on global povery and criticizeRead MoreDescartes s Meditations On First Philosophy Essay2099 Words   |  9 Pagesknowledge, Descartes then states that the logical next step would be to doubt every single thing that we believe, as without certainty, nothing can constitute knowledge. Certainty plays a pivotal and yet simple role in Descartes argument for global skepticism, yet its role is one that evolves throughout his meditations. Descartes starts off saying that only one thing is truly certain - the fact that nothing is certain – and from there goes on to explore what we can and cannot be certain of. DescartesRead MoreUnderstanding The World Through The Study Of Knowledge1862 Words   |  8 Pagesis given by the hypothetico-deductive method; regarded as the â€Å"true† scientific research method. (Gibson, 1987, 63) Quine examines naturalized epistemology as a progressive approach to the traditional matter of interest. The issue of traditional skepticism becomes apparent within the context of a particular way of forming ideas pertaining to the human condition. It is a by-product of a foundationalist, infallible notion of knowledge passed-on by the Greeks. When we relinquish that notion, we are alteringRead MoreWhat Makes A Leader?1482 Words   |  6 Pagesthe IT assets of the organization, as well as create policy, process, and procedure to support ongoing process improvement. The project, which is implementing industry best practices of IT Asset Management, has come with adversity and skepticism. The skepticism has been challenging and has caused many of the ownership power struggle battles along with a petition to continue with the current mode of operation. Nonetheless, the ultimate challenge is undertaking the company’s operation managers’Read MoreThe Cloning Should Not Be Banned By The Human Body886 Words   |  4 Pagescomplex health issues. Since the cloning of Dolly, Farms now clone animals as a method for increased food production. These cloned animals who suffer horrible health issues are the meat and food we purchase at grocery stores. This article encourages the global public to take a stand and refuse to buy cloned animal products in order to improve the welfare of all animals. Also, another fact that is not often proclaimed, is that pet owners will clone their pets after the pet dies. This helps families cope

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Impact Of Social Media On Business Essay - 1288 Words

2014 reflects a drastic change in the direction of social media. Now, more than ever, consumers are wary of businesses and advertisements. As a result, the trust falls to a third party – a brand or person who is not affiliated with the company receiving the promotion. What does that mean for your business? Businesses are encouraged to become their consumers’ friends, chatting about a product or something related, in a manner that is non-threatening, and even enjoyable. The most effective way for a business, no matter the size, to accomplish this is through being present on most or all social media platforms. More than ever, social media is crucial to access more consumers online. So if this is the case, why are businesses still reluctant to gravitate to establishing their brand online? SONY DSC Who uses Social Media? The reality is that everyone uses social media. Yes, everyone. Every demographic you can imagine, they use it. And they’re not just logging on, they are actively participating. Data shows that 35% of Americans check brand pages daily as part of their social media, as stated by Radiate Media. Click to Tweet. What is it? Social Media used to be online platforms with specific niches where friends came to connect – now it is used heavily by consumers who want to interact with brands and are willing consumers by choice, active in participation. Usually forms of communication, where people post photos, videos, text, and other media, it is also used very heavilyShow MoreRelatedSocial Media And Its Impact On Business1641 Words   |  7 Pagesof and use social media they only think of it from a personal view. However, more and more companies have discovered that this electronic network can be used for business purposes as well. Social media can provide a platform for companies to share knowledge and opinions, and announce information to their audience of followers. It can also generate valuable data about how a company’s customers think, shop, vote, and spend their leisure time. Many companies have incorporated social media in their businessRead MoreThe Impact Of Social Media On Business Essa y1644 Words   |  7 PagesThe relentless emergence of the diverse Social Media platforms has been impacting the way people and businesses interact and communicate with each other. The purpose of the paper is to highlight the dynamics by which businesses and particularly Business to Business (B2B) companies attract customers and promote their products and services to them using social media. With an increasing competitiveness in various fields and the innovative ways marketers use to bring new prospects, some businesses haveRead MoreImpact Of Social Media On Business2529 Words   |  11 Pagesknown as social media. Social media supports interpersonal communication and collaboration through the use of internet-based platforms. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram are some of the well-known sites that are used by hundreds of millions of people. Although only 18 percent of managers believe that social media is important for their business today, more than 63 percent assert that they will be important for business within three years (Kiron et al. 2012). The economic impact of social mediaRead MoreSocial Media Impact on Business10631 Words   |  43 PagesContents: 1. Introduction 2 2. Social Media and Business 2 3. Types of Social Media and Their Importance for Companies 4 4. Social Media Functionality Blocks and Their Implications for Companies 7 5. Social Media and Information Half-life and Depth 10 6. LinkedIn Poll 12 7. Recruitment and Search for Talent 13 8. Advertising and Brands Enhancement 17 9. Customer Profiling and Customer Service and Realtionship Management 21 10. The Future of Social Media 25 11. Conslusion 28 12. References 29 1Read MoreImpact Of Social Media On Business1820 Words   |  8 PagesImpact of Social Media on Business: Effects of Social Networking Sites on Organisational / Academic Performance of London College of Business Management and Information Technology (LCBMIT) Index 1. Introduction 2. Background 3. Research Objectives and Methodology 4. Conclusion 5. References 6. Appendix A Introduction: The present study investigates the effect of use of Social Networking sites on organisational performance of LCBMIT. Blogs, tweets, moodle, and discussion boards, facebook updatesRead MoreSocial Media Impact on Business10637 Words   |  43 PagesContents: 1. Introduction 2 2. Social Media and Business 2 3. Types of Social Media and Their Importance for Companies 4 4. Social Media Functionality Blocks and Their Implications for Companies 7 5. Social Media and Information Half-life and Depth 10 6. LinkedIn Poll 12 7. Recruitment and Search for Talent 13 8. Advertising and Brands Enhancement 17 9. Customer Profiling and Customer Service and Realtionship Management 21 10. The Future of Social Media 25 11. Conslusion 28 12. ReferencesRead MoreImpact Of Social Media On Business Essay2383 Words   |  10 Pagestechnology expands, companies and business are gravitating more toward implicating the use of social media. The use of social media can be extremely beneficial to consumers and the business its self. Some of these benefits are the expansion of a business consumers, easier ways for employers to scout out potential employees. Social media also widens the sales market and improves customer satisfaction. Technology will continue to progress and so will the realms of social media. This study will answer theRead MoreImpact Of Social Media On Business Essay1461 Words   |  6 Pageshandbags, cosmetics, haute couture and perfumery among others. A lot of luxury shoppers are currently using the social media to discover new brands while recommending to their friends. It is, therefore, crucial to understanding the needs of the audience and what drives them as they use social media platforms. Social media analytics is a valuable tool in understanding the trends of social media and what a company can do to weigh its audience (Anstead and O#39;Loughlin, 2015, p. 204). The objectiveRead MoreThe Impact Of Social Media On Business1720 Words   |  7 Pageswith the creation and evolution of social media. Social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter allow for a greater interaction between businesses and their customers. There are many different ways that businesses use social media today to promote their brand. For example, some companies offer special promotions for their social media fans. The number one focus when using social media is communication between current and potential consumers and the business itself. This may be in the form ofRead MoreThe Impact Of Social Media On Business933 Words   |  4 PagesLast year, Sterling argued that there are 25 million active business Pages on Facebook. After the world has entered the Internet age, the internet is not only means large information, but also means communication. The social media is one of the communication tools. Recently, people discovered the increasing number of people using social me dia. Tesikerdekis and Zeadally (2014) states that people find the number of humans that use social media have a 64% growth since 2005; for example, People who use

Monday, December 9, 2019

Identify Marks and Spencers market position and de Essay Example For Students

Identify Marks and Spencers market position and de Essay termine why they nearly collapsedIdentify Marks and Spencers market position and determine why they nearly collapsedIntroductionMarks Spencer is one of the UKs foremost retailers of clothing, foods, homeware and financial services, boasting a weekly customer base of 10 million in over 300 UK stores. Marks ; Spencer operate in 30 countries worldwide, and has a group turnover in excess of 8 billion. It has specific values, missions and visions. Its main vision is to be the standard against which all others are measured, its main mission is to make aspirational quality accessible to all, and its main values are quality, service, innovation and trust. (www.marksandspencer.co Did You Ever Wonder Where And Why We Live The Way We Do? With The Goal EssayMarks and Spencer are also making big changes in their childrenswear department. They have always applied strict safety testing and have the best quality childrens clothing on the market, and if improved can become very successful as the fol lowing quote outlines:I think the biggest threat to the retail scene at the moment is Marks and Spencer. Marks and Spencer is very interesting. They have suffered recently but I think theyre more of a threat if they get their act together and get things right in childrens clothing they could make a huge difference much bigger than any foreign retailers entering the marketplace. Source: MintelIn addition, Childrenswear is keen to involve personalities who are fans of Marks ; Spencer, so Marks and Spencer were delighted in February 2002 to sign David Beckham, a real style icon and role model, to help with their boyswear range. The first products arrived in stores in September 2002, and David Beckham himself has starred in adverts promoting the DB07 clotheswear range. Many of Marks and Spencers marketing activities since 1998 can be defined using Ansoffs matrix. This provides a useful framework for identifying alternative strategies based on products and markets. Although it does not focus specifically on the way in which competitive advantages are gained, it does help businesses such as Marks and Spencer to consider the different options available to them in terms of growth strategies. Each section of the Ansoff Matrix shall now be defined and adapted to Marks and Spencer where believed to be necessary:Market PenetrationThis involves selling more of the same product to the same customers, much like Marks and Spencer have been with the menswear clothing range. This strategy involves increased usage by encouraging customers to use a product more frequently i.e. loyalty bonuses. Product DevelopmentThis involved the development of new products for existing customers, i.e. the David Beckham range of clotheswear for children. Also the Blue Harbour and Classics range from Marks and Spencer. Market DevelopmentThis is the process of developing new markets for existing products. This can be achieved by targeting new segments or entering new geographical markets, as evident when Marks and Spencer brought 120 skilled jobs to the garment industry in Northern Ireland. DiversificationThis is seen as a risky strategy. It introduces new products to new markets. The level of risk is affected by the extent to which the new strategy is related or unrelated to existing business. This proves that things are looking promising for Marks and Spencer, they have bright ideas that are coming into place and are becoming recognised again due to the infiltration of famous faces such as David Beckham and granting him his own clothing range. Their marketing focus is on their clothing range which is probably the right idea due to competitors such as Tesco introducing their own clothing range. To incorporate their own style and image is something their competitors cannot comprehend to, so this is a huge step in the right direction for Marks and Spencers. ConclusionTo conclude, Marks and Spencers obviously suffered from the period of decline. The fall in profits proved this and they were made to count the costs. In fairness though, they have bounced back and are pushing towards the market position they were always proud to hold, at the very top in their sector. This is evident with the new clothing range they have released and the capture of a household name such as David Beckham, they are heading for the top again. The SWOT analysis outlined the problems they faced and the opportunities they had to come back, but as you have read, they have outlined a major focus on their clothing range since 1998, and the profits are starting to come in again. With the Zip, Blue Harbour and Classics range of clothing, they have a vast array of clothing lines to offer new and existing customers. Things can only go up for Marks and Spencer after the disarray of 1998, and if current evidence is anything to go by, they are certainly heading in the right direction. This audit has given a clear view of the problems that were faced and how they have overcome these problems and what the future has in store for Marks and Spencer in terms of marketing. Total Word Count (Excluding SWOT Analysis, Diagrams, Quotes and References) : 2498 wordsReferencesOwww.marksandspencer.co.ukOwww.mintel.comODavidson, H 1997, 1st Ed, Even More Offensive Marketing, Penguin Books, St IvesOFill, C, 2002 Marketing Communications Contents, Concepts and Strategies, Prentice HallODrummond and Ensor, Strategic Marketing Management, p. 149, Butterworth HeinemannOJoisce, Ted Lecture Notes for Marketing Planning and Marketing CommunicationsOMeek, H ; Ensor, J, p. 150, Strategic Marketing Management: Planning and Control, 2001, Butterworth Heinemann, OxfordOPiercy, N 1997, 2nd Ed. Market-Led Strategic Change Transforming the Process of going to Market, p. 27, Butterworth Heinemann, Oxford)OWelsh, CEO of General Electric adapted from Relationship Marketing Lecture Notes, 21/10/2002

Monday, December 2, 2019

Top 100 Persuasive Essay Topics to Help You Get Started

Our life is all about words. It is an essential part of communication, and human relationships.Daily Mail has recently posted an article that supports the idea that women say around 20,000 words a day, while men only say 7,000. According to Rob Hoskins and his article on One Hope, people read around 54,000 words a day either when searching for information or when scrolling through their social newsfeed. So, the words are everywhere regardless of whether you notice it or not. The only question is what effect these words have on people. What percentage of everything we say convince people to do our way? How can one make others follow him using only his words? The power of words is often underestimated. We can do real wonders with them. That is why, colleges and schools teach students how to speak convincingly and use the huge amount of words spoken daily in a right way. Pieces in which someone is trying to convince the others in the correctness of his ideas are called "persuasive essays." What makes a good persuasive essay? There are only a few things that define whether an essay you are working on will be a good one. Among them are: Proper grammar. It is hard (and even painful at times) to listen to someone using poor grammar. Why would someone neglect these rules considering the availability of different means to learn how to speak correctly? Besides, the lack of proper grammar makes the listeners lose respect to the speaker. You don't want to play with that, right? Correct structure. There are rules that explain how a proper persuasive essay must look like. It must start with a bright opening, continue with a couple of paragraphs that all talk about the same point but from different angles, and end with a conclusion. This structure is not merely a whim but rather a smart way of leading the readers to your final point step by step. Solid evidence. When given a task to create an essay, you need to remember that evidence is what matters. So, do not argue round and round the subject but rather proceed straight to the main point itself. This way you won't be viewed as a chatter-box but as a reliable speaker. You cannot jump from one point to the other. Stick to the general flow of your essay, and remember to move smoothly from one paragraph using transitions. So many things are said every day that it is almost impossible to say something creative and innovative. That is why, content that is original is valued above all. Think out-of-the-box and be creative to persuade your audience. Now, as we are on the same page about what makes a good essay, let's focus on what topics one can write about. We have divided the topics into several groups to make it easier to find the one you actually want to talk about. So, if you are experiencing troubles coming up with a good theme for the persuasive essay, just grab one of ours and create an outstanding piece using our tips mentioned above! College persuasive essay topics Should we stop using belts when driving? Should students get paid for good grades? Should people go to jail for using their smartphones while driving? Should there be an age restrictions on registering in the social media? Should higher education be free for all the students? Why should student athletes be getting the scholarship? Should the factories be fined for emitting the fumes? Should students be granted a right to have guns on the campus? Should school days start later? Should students enter the universities right away or after taking a break from school? These are pretty good topics, but if you don't find them interesting enough or they do not match your age, keep reading. Persuasive essay topics for middle school Should there be fast food vendors in the campus? Should schools ban uniforms? Should middle schoolers get less work? Should the school ban students from bringing smartphones to class? Should students working on the school newspaper be paid? Should cheating be punished harsher? Should middle schoolers committing crimes be punished as adults? Should there be some belt on the school buses for better safety? Should students be the ones choosing their school menu? Should PE classes at school be obligatory? Another list of topics, but we have much more other themes to talk about. Keep scrolling. Persuasive essay topics for high school? Should giving pocket money to children be mandatory in all families? When should children be viewed as grownups? Do children watch too much TV? What should be the minimum wage for students working part-time? Should public transportation be free for students and elderly? Should working students get less homework? Should all people be vaccinated? What types of sports should be banned on campuses? Should drinking be strictly controlled on the campus? Should there be a restriction on the age of children living with parents? Funny persuasive essay topics Why should all zookeepers be vegetarians? Why should you be the teacher instead of your teacher? Why is it not true that blondes are stupid? Why should not you blame your horoscope when something goes wrong? Should computer games be added to your academic curriculum? Why should not your parents register on Facebook? Should bigger people be made to purchase several tickets when traveling? Should hats be banned from being worn when in the malls to prevent crimes? Why should people be allowed to steal when they are hungry? Why should only work four days a week, and not five? If these topics did not give you a good laugh, then check out other great option by leading essay writers. Great persuasive essays What punishments should be applied for bullying? Should children be paid for doing chores at home? Should army service be obligatory? Should sweets be banned from selling on the campus? Should adult video stores be open for high school students? Should birth control methods be available to students without parents' consent? Should schools provide students with free condoms as safety measures? Should religion studies be taught at school? Should students be tested for drugs at school? Should school control students' social life? Topical issues Should be schools be constantly under military protection to prevent terroristic acts? Should taxis have free Wi-Fi? Should students be able to listen to music during classes? Should school days start with prayers? Should schools have the Halls of Honor? Should students be allowed to teach classes for elementary school children and get paid? Should marijuana be banned from using in medical institutions? Should medical care be free for everyone? Should immigrants be paid the social financial support? Should people smoking in the public places be punished? Persuasive speech topics Is sexual orientation a choice or a genetical issue? Should capital punishment be allowed? Should euthanasia be banned? Should prisoners be allowed to vote? Why should people in prison be made to work for the state? Should people be punished for committing the literary theft? Should the age when people are allowed to drink be increased? Should same-sex couples be allowed to adopt? Is electroshock device a weapon? Should children be punished physically? Popular topics Should the tortures in prisons be forbidden? Should women pursue higher education? Should parents be certified first to have children? Should biological weapons be banned? Should there be equal amount of male and female politicians in the government? Should abortions be banned? Should the police always have warrants to arrest someone? Should judges have unlimited power? Should the President be indefeasible? Should children get fruit at school daily? Complicated themes for persuasive essays Is there God? Is there one truth for all? Should immigrants have a right to govern the state? Should taking care of the homeless be made mandatory for all the citizens? Should advertisers be punished for giving promises they cannot implement? Should border fences be built to prevent illegal immigration? Should schools replace paper books with e-books? Should boys and girls study at different schools? Should schools stop scanning the essays for plagiarism? Should weight control be made a national concern? Bonus topics for convincing essays Should prisoners be allowed to get higher education when imprisoned? Should missionary trips to poor countries be sponsored by the government? Should the restriction on the minimum speed be lifted? At what age should it be legal for students to start working? Should fast food restaurants be paying more taxes for causing obesity? Should breastfeeding be prohibited in public places? Should parents be allowed to go through children's belongings without their consent? Should the Internet be banned from schools? Should artistic people retire earlier? Should people be executed for domestic violence? Select one of these topics to write a good persuasive essay and you will not regret it. These themes are destined to turn into fun and creative writing. And that's exactly what you need when working on such a piece.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Free Essays on Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. The nonviolent fight for Equality, Civil Rights, and Justice By: Sonia Aguilar Martin Luther King Jr., a martyr, a hero, a man with courage who fought for the equality and civil rights of black people in the United States of America (USA). He challenges segregation and racial discrimination in the 1950’s and 1960’s. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1929 and he was a Nobel Peace Prize winner. Martin Luther King Jr. is a legendary hero for black people and today’s society. He believes that man has the right to disobey just laws. King was strongly influenced by Gandhi’s use of nonviolent protests in India and he considered Gandhi’s teachings a valuable resource to apply in his leadership as the voice of black people in the U.S.A. His principle idea was to achieve equality and develop improved civil rights for black people in America without using violence. One of the most important influences on King was Gandhi’s theory of nonviolent resistance. Gandhi was educated in law at the University College in London, England. He worked in South Africa where he was treated as a member of an inferior race and he was shocked at the widespread denial of civil liberties and political rights to the Indians. Gandhi began teaching a policy of passive resistance after experiencing personal attacks by white South Africans. In 1914 the government of South Africa began to recognize Indian marriages and abolished the poll tax for them. With improvements in South Africa Gandhi felt free to return to India and begin a campaign for home rule. He became a leader in India and used passive resistance techniques to fight for political and economic independence from Britain. He became the international symbol of a free India. He lived a spiritual life of prayer, fasting, and meditation. Gandhi’s advocacy of nonviolence was the expression of a way of life implicit in the Hindu religion. King studied deep... Free Essays on Martin Luther King Jr. Free Essays on Martin Luther King Jr. This letter was written by a man who was sick and tired of seeing African Americans becoming acquired to feeling like their nobodies or outsiders in a world where the phrase â€Å"all men are created equal† was being preached everyday. For over 350 years African Americans have been denied there constitutional and God given rights for being judged by their skin color. Freedom fighter Martin Luther King sought out to put an end to this discrimination against blacks. After receiving his doctorate in theology from Boston University in 1955, King became a pastor at a church in Montgomery, Alabama. As the leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, King organized many marches, boycotts, and sit-ins. In 1963 he was arrested and put into Birmingham Jail where he wrote his â€Å"Letter from Birmingham Jail† addressed to white clergymen who opposed his demonstration. In my opinion Kings argument is solid and respectable because of his strong yet caring tone, org anization of poin! ts, and the support he uses. First of all, Kings tone plays an important role in this letter, the education and vocabulary he uses lets people know that he knows what he’s talking about. Kings argument is so effective because he is not outright slandering his opposition, which would make them even angrier. He kind of goes through each point, which is most likely, a fact, like he’s reading a sermon and says things like â€Å"I’m sorry to say† before each point, which means he is sorry to bring up this truth but this truth has to be known to all. King who is a very religious man often mentions passages from the bible, for instance he says â€Å"†¦he is in Birmingham because injustice is here† and then compares it to when the Apostle Paul left his hometown to go to other parts of the world to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. King also mentions numerously that he uses non-violent campaigns, which shows that he doesn’t want to do any harm to any... Free Essays on Martin Luther King Jr. Michael Luther King was born January 15, 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia to Alberta Williams King a schoolteacher and Pastor Martin Luther King. He was later renamed to Martin Luther King, Jr. King Jr.’s father was the pastor of Ebnezer Baptist Church, the church were his maternal grandfather founded. King attended segregated public schools where he advanced in his education. King attended Morhouse College in Atlanta at the age of fifteen where he later received his bachelors degree in sociology in 1948. King broadened his education at Crozer Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania where he received his bachelor degree with honors in Theology in 1951. King excelled his education in Theology and earned a doctoral degree from Boston University in 1955. King studied teachings on nonviolent protest of Indian leader Mohandas Gandhi at Morehouse, Crozer, and Boston University; King visited India and credited Gandhi on his techniques on his civil-rights success. Other ministers also influenced King. King met his wife Coretta Scott King at Boston University they married in 1953, shortly after they moved to his wife hometown Montgomery, Alabama where they had four children Yolanda Denise, Martin Luther III, Dexter and Bernice. In 1954 King first pastored at Dexter Avenue Baptist church in Montgomery, Alabama. Martin Luther King Jr. is considered a great legend then and now for the civil rights movement. King open opportunities in America for all Americans not just African Americans. The birth of the civil rights movement began when an African American lady name Rosa Parks a member of the NAACP (National Advancement Association for Colored People), refused to give up her seat for a white passenger which was at the front of the bus. Ms. Parks refused to give up her seat that day because she was exhausted from a hard day’s work. When Ms. Parks refused she was arrested and taken to jail; this produced the Montgomery bus boycott. Ki... Free Essays on Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr. The nonviolent fight for Equality, Civil Rights, and Justice By: Sonia Aguilar Martin Luther King Jr., a martyr, a hero, a man with courage who fought for the equality and civil rights of black people in the United States of America (USA). He challenges segregation and racial discrimination in the 1950’s and 1960’s. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1929 and he was a Nobel Peace Prize winner. Martin Luther King Jr. is a legendary hero for black people and today’s society. He believes that man has the right to disobey just laws. King was strongly influenced by Gandhi’s use of nonviolent protests in India and he considered Gandhi’s teachings a valuable resource to apply in his leadership as the voice of black people in the U.S.A. His principle idea was to achieve equality and develop improved civil rights for black people in America without using violence. One of the most important influences on King was Gandhi’s theory of nonviolent resistance. Gandhi was educated in law at the University College in London, England. He worked in South Africa where he was treated as a member of an inferior race and he was shocked at the widespread denial of civil liberties and political rights to the Indians. Gandhi began teaching a policy of passive resistance after experiencing personal attacks by white South Africans. In 1914 the government of South Africa began to recognize Indian marriages and abolished the poll tax for them. With improvements in South Africa Gandhi felt free to return to India and begin a campaign for home rule. He became a leader in India and used passive resistance techniques to fight for political and economic independence from Britain. He became the international symbol of a free India. He lived a spiritual life of prayer, fasting, and meditation. Gandhi’s advocacy of nonviolence was the expression of a way of life implicit in the Hindu religion. King studied deep... Free Essays on Martin Luther King Jr. History is made up of significant events that shape our future, and leaders who influence our destiny. Martin Luther King launched the American Civil Rights movement in the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott as the president of the Montgomery Improvement Association. He was later named to the board of directors of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) in 1957. His book Why We Can’t Wait outlines the important events of Civil Rights in the early 1960’s. Why We Can’t Wait centers on his Letter from Birmingham Jail and is bookended with an historical account of the events leading to his arrest of April 12, 1963. The year 1963 marked the 100-year anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and Martin Luther King asks two questions: why should we wait for emancipation? And aware of what White Americans were doing to Black Americans, â€Å"What is the Negro doing for himself?† (King p. 8) Martin Luther King concludes by pointing out the importance of expanding on the current campaign, what his hopes are for the future, why he wrote Letter from Birmingham Jail, why the campaign was the right thing to do, why America was a better place in January of 1964 than it was in January of 1963, and why America can’t wait any longer to be wholly free. Before Letter from Birmingham Jail can be fully understood, an historical foundation must first be established. â€Å"In the summer of 1963 a need and a time and a circumstance and the mood of a people came together.† (King p. 13) Martin Luther King outlines the conditions of Black America in the early 1960’s, the steps they were taking to change their condition, and goes into detail the conditions that existed specifically in Birmingham, Alabama. The Black community was disappointed in the slow progress being made to de-segregate the school system. With the Presidential election of John F. Kennedy, th... Free Essays on Martin Luther King Jr. World wide racism has been an issue, and still is. Many people have tried to solve this problem in many ways. One way that is common is influencing people through speech. A number of the speakers were successful and others unsuccessful. Martin Luther King Jr. was definitely one of the many very successful. As many already know, Martin Luther King Jr. was a civil rights leader for the black people of America. â€Å"American clergyman and Nobel Prize winner, one of the principal leaders of the American civil rights movement and a prominent advocate of nonviolent protest.†1 King was a leader during the 1950's and the 1960's. â€Å"His charismatic leadership inspired men and women, young and old, in this nation and around the world.†2 â€Å"His wisdom, his words, his actions, his commitment, and his dream for a new way of life are intertwined with the American experience.†3 The life of Martin started in 1929. He was born and raised in Atlanta Georgia. Michael Luther King his original name but was changed to Martin. Martin was the first son and the second child. Christine was Martin’s older sister and had a younger brother named Alfred Daniel. The two proud parents were Reverend Martin Luther King, Sr. and, Alberta Williams King. At five years of age Martin began his life as a student. Martin excelled throughout his entire academic career. Having scored very highly on his entry college exams, he skipped the ninth and twelfth grades. King never formally graduated before he started college at the age of fifteen. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology in 1948. Martin then enrolled in Crozer Theological Seminary. He then went to Boston where he earned a doctoral degree in systematic theology in 1955. Martin was now known as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.. While in Boston, Martin had met his love. Her name was Coretta Scott. She was a native and a music student. The marriage occurred in 1953. They were the proud parents of ...

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Celebrate the Saturnalia Festival

Celebrate the Saturnalia Festival For how many years shall this festival abide! Never shall age destroy so holy a day! While the hills of Latium remain and father Tiber, while thy Rome stands and the Capitol thou hast restored to the world, it shall continue.- Saturnalia Conspicuous Consumption in Saturnalia as in Christmas Around Christmas, its often difficult to separate commerce from religion. I want to do something different this year. Put up something other than a Christmas tree and creche to which the wooden wise men move nearer each day. Maybe Ill wear a funny peaked cap, buy my friends beeswax candles useful gifts in the event of a power failure, let my son (as Lord of Misrule) plan the day, and just maybe Ill celebrate it early... on December 17, the day of the Saturnalia. The Increasing Period of Saturnalia Celebration This Saturnalia problem may sound familiar. After all, stores put out their Christmas merchandise before Halloween these days. The Saturnalia was originally celebrated in Ancient Rome for only a day, but it was so popular it soon lasted a week, despite Augustus efforts to reduce it to three days, and Caligulas, to five. Like our Christmas, this important holy day (feriae publicae) was for more than fun and games. Saturnalia was a time to honor the god of sowing, Saturn. But again, like our Christmas, it was also a festival day (dies festus) on which a public banquet was prepared. An effigy of the god was probably one of the guests. Saturnalia Was the Best Part of the Roman Year The poet Catullus describes Saturnalia as the best of days. It was a time of celebration, visits to friends, and gift-giving, particularly of wax candles (cerei), and earthenware figurines (sigillaria). The best part of the Saturnalia (for slaves) was the temporary reversal of roles. Masters served meals to their slaves who were permitted the unaccustomed luxuries of leisure and gambling. Clothing was relaxed and included the peaked woollen cap that symbolized the freed slave, which looks an awful lot like Santa Clauss peaked red hat . A member of the familia (family plus slaves) was appointed Saturnalicius princeps, roughly, Lord of Misrule. Celebrate the Saturnalia in the 21st Century Im not alone in my desire to do something... old. Biblioteca Arcana and Nova Roma offer suggestions for turning December 17 into a celebration of Saturnalia. Bringing trees indoors to decorate is a modern custom. Nova Roma suggests decorating outdoor trees with sun and star symbols  and using swathes of greenery over doorways, windows, and on people. But Nova Roma emphasizes that decorations are secondary to revelry, feasting, drinking, merry-making, pranks, and gift-giving of Saturnalia. If you can get your friends and neighbors in the spirit, wrangle a parade permit from your municipality so you can dance (like a Roman) in the street. Biblioteca Arcanas suggestions are for celebrating the religious aspects of the Saturnalia and its two adjoining holidays, the Opalia for Saturns wife, Ops, goddess of plenty, and the Consualia for Consus, god of the storage bin. The site provides a complete ritual with an equipment list, information on preparation, location, timing, the banquet, and the conclusion. Io Saturnalia! Also see: Saturnalia Article

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Business Intelligence (SLP) Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business Intelligence (SLP) - Coursework Example Business Intelligence systems use tools to gather, store, analyze and present data which is then used to create business strategies. Business intelligence systems use enterprise wide data which minimizes the need for technical and clerical staff. One of the top players in the field of business intelligence is SAP which has developed tools primarily in three categories to aid decision making; the categories include performance optimization applications, business intelligence platform packages and packages for small and medium sized businesses. The data gathered through business intelligence is spread across a variety of locations in a business context such as the marketing department, finance department, operations etc. In order to take informed, strategic decisions there is a need for this data to be structured in a user friendly manner. Traditionally, the IT department in any organization would allow the use of structured reports from various departments which although would present the information but the integration of the information would be a cumbersome process. This is where the SAP Crystal Interactive Analysis Desktop Edition (formerly known as SAP Business Objectsâ„ ¢ Interactive Analysis, Desktop edition) comes in. The Desktop edition provides self-service data access, multiple source data analysis and trusted insight. This tool allows business managers to develop ad-hoc, interactive reports which can help answer the ever evolving business questions. SAP Crystal Interactive Analysis does not only allow the b usiness managers to view information based on the needs of the specific problem at hand but allows them to conduct an analysis of the information presented. The Interactive Analysis tool gives its users the ability to conduct contingency based analysis of business critical information. It allows the decision makers to combine many types of data from different sources. For example, a production manager can access

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

An Exploration of Childhood Obesity and Child Protection Essay

An Exploration of Childhood Obesity and Child Protection - Essay Example G. N. G. T. H. E., 2006) As per the medical experts, it had been proven that the hazard of being prone to severe health problems soars in accordance with the extra heaviness a person gains. Being obese as a child might also origin â€Å"psychological distress.† Teasing (which is normal) about the look impacts a childs self-confidence and sense of worth and generally escorts to loneliness and hopelessness. The figure of children suffering from obesity in the UK has ascended gradually over the past 20 years. In United Kingdom, currently the obesity epidemic is considered a foremost health concern. (NOËL CAMERON, N. G. N. G. T. H. E., 2006) Childhood Obesity is a severe physical condition. It is defined as carrying too much body fat for your height and sex. A person is considered obese if they have a body mass index or BMI (weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters) of 30 or greater. Obesity is a risk factor for several chronic biological ailments. As studied earlier, obese children often turn into unhealthy, obese adults. Thus, most of these ailments manifest themselves during adulthood. One of the most hazardous consequences of obesity is type 2 diabetes. (KORBONITS, M., 2008) A study conducted by the National Audit Office (NAO) estimates that obesity directly caused more than 250,000 cases of type 2 diabetes in England in 1998. But what is truly alarming is the emergence of type 2 diabetes among schoolchildren. Another major health implication is the prevalence of coronary heart diseases and hypertension among obese people. (www.nao.gov.uk) The coronary heart disease is the leading cause of premature death among obese people. NAO had recorded that obesity caused some 28,000 heart attacks and approximately 750,000 cases of hypertension in England in the year 1998 alone. (www.nao.gov.uk) Excessive body

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Power of Communication Essay Example for Free

Power of Communication Essay Communication is the basic human need to share meanings and express ideas and thoughts and that can be achieved by the exchange of information between the society members. The process of communication is defined by the technology available, culture and protocols of communication. Political scientists are interested in political communication through studying the interaction communication between the political system and the political process generally and they confirmed the importance of the fundamental relationship between them, they called for re-examination and analysis of political science based on communication theories. Politics is difficult to be found without communication because there must be a link between the public and the ruling elite (decision makers), and this applies to the political system too. Citizens must be able to communicate their wishes and demands to the government, and the government should be able to communicate its decisions to citizens and justify them to win their satisfaction. Political parties and politicians needs huge public support, Where it can be said that political communication is the most important means of communication that must be followed by a party in order to gain such support. It is well known that the objective of any party is to access power or participate in it and this cannot be reached without large public support. This political communication can take various forms depends on the technology available such as press, radio, television and digital networked media. The political communication is the proper way of any party members to open dialogue with the masses of the people for establish the doctrine of their party to them, and gain popular support for the policy and programs of the party, where they listen to note of the public towards some situations and impressions towards it, and the members of the party again, during their partisan meetings to discuss the various social and economic problems in the community, and that need solutions, ranging proposals of different party members to fixing these problems through the hierarchical organization of the party until it reaches the level of leadership and integrate in the various party programs. thereby ensuring this party kind of interaction with he public surrounding it, so that lead the response to the wishes and requirements of the public in the general policy of the party, to achieve a great deal of compatibility between the party and street folk, and this goes back to the party with a grea t benefit in elections times, When the public find the investigator to them ambitions and expectations, and This causes at normal conditions for arrival (the party with compatibility larger with the popular will) to rule the country. Communication was and will continue to be the most important activity in human life through interacts with others to express ideas, needs and feelings and dreams, and has expressed their personality, culture and freedom and the idea of an activity that can be embodied the meaning of human dignity and values. So this make this activity one of the most activities accountable of various standards, pressures and the laws that are on the whole a fundamental question about the nature of the relationship between the media and the ethics and other aspects of human life. Communication science benefited and interact with all the of Sciences and knowledge, humanitarian, technical data and the science explain to us at this time to what affect the means of mass communication in the minds of the people and what is the size of this effect and how it is affecting. No one can deny the importance of these theories of communication that formed the communication science which had experimented in communities that adopted and tried to apply. The communication tools play an important role in political life, whether internal or the outside, not only political professionals are attach importance to their communication strategy, but governed also gaining most of their information through the communication tools. The means of mass communication possesses the characteristics and capabilities of multiple distinct from those when its counterparts from groups or opinion leaders, are in any case means mass communication addresses the daily huge cross sections of the population with one voice. The means of communication and media are necessary and important to make effectively communication links and interactions are always open between the ruler and the governed. Definitely, mass communication has evolved technically accompanied by the technological development happened to human societies in all fields, in ancient societies (Greek and Roman society), political community was limited and number of citizens who can be covered by ruling messages was known, so it was direct speeches and forums in public places established in open air r in the theaters of the city that was one of the most forms of political communication, so it was politicians highly dependent on rhetoric and the ability to inference to convince they governed, This free space for debate and political communication that helped to create direct democracy known as the Athenian democracy, But with the development of human societies and the expansion of political activity field appearance regimes of modern political became not possible to rely solely on speeches and seminars, which includes a limited number of citizens, but became necessary to find a communication to spread and includes a wide segment of the public. (Karl W. Deutsch, 2006) Literature Review: Denis McQuail, 2010 â€Å"Seen these arguments written, visual and audio as a tool of direct democracy, and as a court of public opinion open day and night put the law for everything all the time, not a substitute for institutions, but such ray of light detector that keeps moving here and there, revealing always talking about the depths of darkness† Jacques Gerstle, 2004 â€Å"One of the basic properties of the twentieth century is the communication tools revolution, and the appearance the community of communication. We saw the appearance of new techniques for political communication, these techniques that contributed in dissemination and sharing the information, ideas and communities in conditions limited time and across a wide geographical. † Since the advent of printing, which contributed historically in the advancement of the theory and practice of democracy through journalism written is the court of public opinion, as well as with the emergence of radio, which was the most important means of communication used in the second world war propaganda by politicians, through well television, which affects more than other means of mass communication. Various categories divergent public and geographically, does not follow some of the obstacles faced by other means such as the written press such as distribution problems and an individuals ability to read all the way to satellites to broadcast dimensional networks of electronic communication global movement of information and ideas and comply with the limits of regional and geographical, with the development of all these means and which was called some people name new technologies for information and communication find that the process of political communication has evolved is also no longer this process takes place using the means of communication like a traditional speech, for example. Gabriel A. Almond, 2004 â€Å"That everything in politics is communication, system of communication is one of the main channels for the flow of information from the elite to the masses and also to transfer the problems of the masses and their aspirations and their perceptions to the elite. † Robert Wiener, David Jerison, I. Isadore Manuel Singer, Daniel W.  Strook, 1997 â€Å"If we realized politics is system so communication system is the nerve that controls the system, and the systems ability to exercise command and control linked to its ability to deal with the information, so that communication and control are two synonymous of same meaning, every time we call we also control. † Karl W. Deutsch, William J. Foltz, 2010 The nerves of government political Communication and Control â€Å"is proposed similar political regime system Cyber zonular, describes the relationship between the political system and its surroundings under shape or environment Cyber zonular, which imagined that communication as a system of decisions based on the flood of diverse information, and is communication and media the most important issues in political science, and confirms it is wrong to neglecting or underestimation the role of other changes. † Dr.  Schwatzenberg, 1990 â€Å"Political communication is the path that moves the political information one part to another parts of the political regime and between this system and the social system, it is path continuously to exchange of information between individuals and groups at all levels, It is especially the exchange of information between rulers and ruled that will ensure the agreement between them, each governor seeks to accepting his decisions, and all governed trying to structured and their needs are taken in the consideration, and compatibility and harmonization be realized only through the communication and through exchange. † Harold Dwight Lasswell, Peter de Leon, 2009 â€Å"Political community like the pyramid, where rulers are elite at the top of the pyramid and the masses of people at the base, and between them there experts and specialists in the middle between the top and the base, and being communication processes on the basis that each nation have political ystem specific consists of elite, They are responsible for the decision and supervision on the states economic resources and human resources, to achieve the goals and programs of the State, the ruling elite and using tools of communication specialized experts believing they are the ones those can be in the process of communication between the elite and controlled groups, and staff working in this area have their role in attracting public attention to social issues. † Alvin Toffler, 1984 â€Å"That there is a relationship substantially between communication process and the political process, if the world of politics is based on power, the desires of those who have power must be transmitted to the expect they will respond to it, and if the world of politics is based on the legitimacy of the highest authority, the matter requires a means by which based the symbolic expression of values and procedural standards for such systems, and if the world of politics based on participation, this means finding channels transporting the interests and demands of the citizens to decision makers. † Kenneth E. Boulding. 989 â€Å"The political process, such as the decision-making process, it is also a test of the roles of power in society, and in response to the images Stereotypes formed by political means of communication in society, The means of communication change of images Stereotypes of individuals, and political behavior based on images Stereotypes. † Theories and Models of Communication (Difference Job Title and convergence of concept and function) Studies in Communication Sciences provided us science of communication in the framework is not clear in terms of mixing in some of the concepts and nomenclature may be the reason in that transfers of these sciences at the hands of a Type is not specialized and qualified in the field of media and communication. So still confusion exists between science communication and science media and between theories and models in communication process but after multiple studies in the field of media, communication and development study of media and communications at universities and institutes in the third world and after a significant increase in who have advanced degrees in media from Western universities appeared a new generation of communication scholars provided us this real science in its context where they ruled for differentiating between the media and science communication and science and have sacrificed the relationship between them, and provided us both models and theories on the units and they ruled for differentiating among them.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Paris Hilton: The Eigth Deadly SIn :: essays research papers

Paris Hilton: The Eighth Deadly Sin Pride, envy, anger, avarice, sloth, gluttony, lust, and Paris Hilton. The seven deadly sins and Paris the heiress have combined to overtake pop culture as we know it. It may be a coincidence this blond bombshells favorite number is seven, but in the pubic eye Paris is the epitome of such sins. Who blames her? She’s famous, wealthy, beautiful, human, and everywhere you look. From the television, to movies, magazines, books, clothing lines, and even armature video stores†¦ the list goes on, and so she follows. America is obsessed with Paris. When Hilton’s dog, Tinkerbell, disappeared it made national news. When the heiress herself attended a New York Knicks game, Madison square garden chanted her name, while the not so lucky Knicks were down thirty points in the third quarter. Our obsession with Paris has reached an all time high. Americans are now beginning to look, smell, talk and act like Miss Hilton herself. Pride as stated in the seven deadly sins is the desire to be important or attractive to others and to show excessive love of self. In such a case America must forgive Miss Hilton, for she has sinned. Paris had no problem denying she â€Å"feel’s lucky when she looks in the mirror,† in her December 2004 interview with Rolling Stones. But does America blame her for feeling lucky? She is the epitome of lucky and not to mention a designers dream. As Nicole Jones states in her, Getting the Style, commentary Paris has the body of a runway model, and alien thinness that few bear naturally. Designers are not fools to the Paris pandemonium. Not only can she flawlessly sport a trend, she can also sell one†¦ or even two. With a single picture Paris brought forth the Von Dutch decade and the times of the trucker†¦ hat that is. Paris’s trends have teenagers out spending their cold hard cash on real expensive cotton. As Nicole Jones points out in her commentary, Amer ica loves Hilton’s fashion because it is not too difficult for us to incorporate in our own wardrobe. It didn’t take long for guess designer, Marciano, to realize he wanted to bring in some of the Paris’s pop culture platinum. According to Forbes magazine, after making Miss Hilton Marciano’s new guess girl sales rose about 16%. Paris herself does not even underestimate the power of her and name, and in essence continues to commit the

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Black Women Essay

The act of resistance and defiance is one of the most used human reactions that we as Americans often use this to express ourselves in society today. These reactions are also used when some one fee3ls that they are being treated unfairly or in an unjust manner. America is supposed to be a land of equal value and opportunity when it comes to being human. Obviously this is not the way that things are in society today but things were a lot worse off not so long ago. From the late eighteenth century up until now a struggle for equality has been being fought by women, especially the black woman. Now it may sound funny to talk about equality and then turn around and identify a specific group of women. There is I think good reason to acknowledge this difference, this being that this particular group of women has been the most outspoken and influential group of women during this power struggle. I can explain this be saying that the black Black women had to pout up with one: being black from the times of slavery in which blacks were treated as less than human, and two: they are in fact women whom had no respect in society and are still looked at as inferior to the male in today’s society. So the Black woman has had to endure double the hard ships throughout their struggle in America. They fought this battle with resistance by means of resiliency they as a collective group have refuses to accept unjust unequal treatment. As I progressed through our class I realized that there are many different methods of resisting and refusing to accept things for the way they are. One of the most effective methods that women in general have used over the years is writing. Writing in itself is so expressive if ones feelings and opinions, and women have used this method to educate and relate to all audience and social classes. Black women have provided us with a plethora of different genres of writing from the slave narrative to books that specialize in educating the black woman of today’s society they are all effective and critical mechanisms used by the Black woman and culture in society today. So the Black woman has the ability evolve and adapt to the different requirement of society today all of this in the black woman’s psyche and is instilled in her from child birth. One of the most influential characters involved in this molding of thought process of the black child is the Black mother. From my personal experience and from my knowledge gathered from the readings and lectures the black mother is the greatest form of resiliency and positive voice that I can identify. A mother in general is a nurturing person that has the task of raising a child and making sure that the child grows up learning right form wrong. The black mother is this, but there is another el3ement that she has that other mother’s do not the kids that she is raising and teaching are Black children. Therefore she has to be strong for them and teach them outside the American norm because they are in fact not looked at as belonging to this norm. my mother instilled in me and my brothers the fact that we were Black men and that we were always to be proud of that, my mothers favorite thing to say is â€Å"Boy don’t let no body walk over you† this was often the advice that she gave me as a child I used to think of it as â€Å"wow mama why you so confrontational? † but as I got older I understood that that is how she operated all the time in today’s society as a black woman day by day she is constantly tried by numerous things but she refuses to be broken down by any thing. I also recognized this in Dust tracks on a road, not only in the book but also in the writing itself. Zoras mama’s dialogue throughout the story is represented as a strong woman that takes care of her family and keeps things in order. That is the role of the black mother in today’s society also except in our society today the black mother also active in the work force and not just a stay at home mother adding another task to their agenda. As far as the dialogue in the story it was written exactly as they talked back then. This is because for so long the black woman was silenced and forced to talk and behave in a manner that was not their own. This form of writing is clearly an act of resilience because of the simple fact that they are writing in a form that they were told was unaccepted and not civilized. This form of writing says that â€Å"this is how we as a people used to talk and we are proud of it†, people often look down upon the African American vernacular of that time but it was the result of learning a new language second and third and illiteracy in which both these were factors of oppression that were resisted and defied by our people. In today’s society there are similarities to this they can be found inside the school systems. The schools that are in dominantly minority areas are neglected financially and also under staffed this causes students to not learn exactly what they should be learning to be successful. To over come this there are a lot more Black woman teachers that see that this is not where we want our children to go and that a change is needed. They can also relate to black students and educate those outside our race or those who do not understand the struggle and what has come from it. In my experiences a good Black woman teacher acts as a kind of mama away from home for students and a positive female figure for young female students. Over all I can say that this course was really enlightening as far as acknowledging the Black woman I have always thought that most black woman of today’s society were strong and goal oriented but I have never really sat back and thought about why and where this extremely strong sense of self originated. Black woman have endured and persevered for years in America from days of slavery and Harriet Tubman to the civil right movement and Rosa Parks the Black woman has develop[ed an attitude of refusing to accept meritocracy and unjust treatment seeing this has helped me to understand that is where the black woman’s sense of resiliency comes from today.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

How to being a successful student Essay

We all experience some sort of education during our lifetime, whether we succeed or fail depends completely on ourselves. To be a successful student there are a few guidelines you should follow. Attend all classes wherever possible, manage your time efficiently and put drive and effort behind your learning. Following these three guidelines will help to ensure a successful and fruitful educational career. The first step to being a successful student is attendance. Regardless of the teaching format, whether it is boring or simply impossible, attending class is a key to success. Even if all of your readings are complete and you feel comfortable with the information attend class and listen to the material as it is discussed in class. Make note of the teacher’s point of view and the topics that are covered in more detail, chances are you will see them again on a test or exam. Take notes on pertinent information and on subject matter that you do not quite understand and need to clarify. Attending class will ensure that you familiarize yourself with the knowledge you gain and that that knowledge will be easily recalled when most needed. The next step to being a successful student is time management. Organize your time between school, work and your social life very carefully. To be an efficient student you must balance your free time be sure to plan a loose schedule that you can keep day in and day out. Designate a certain number of hours to studying, reviewing and homework and try to keep the hours as consistent as possible. Do not study for extended periods of time; try studying for shorter intervals more often instead of studying for hours on end. You will find that your attention span stays focused and studying goes by much faster.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

The Obligation to Obey essays

The Obligation to Obey essays It has been said that as long as the human species is in a living state conformity shall be part of how human society functions and part of mans natural tendencies. The more people already agree upon or share a particular idea, the more easily a newcomer will in turn be converted to that idea, and the more difficult it will be for one already converted to reject that idea. Therefore, man will most likely obey to what the majority believes is correct, even if he had a different point of view; he will convert and learn to reject all other ideas that do not match to the majoritys idea. This not only allows the newcomer to feel welcomed, yet it may also give him sense of belonging and of safety. This is the primary reason for why man is so prone and willing to obey. People who study conformity, not only by current experiments but also by looking at humanitys history regarding conformity, find that these tendencies have existed as long as Homo sapiens have belong to groups or tribes. However, when it came time to make a critical decision among the people, the majority always determined it; leaving the minority with the responsibility of having to carry out actions they didnt necessarily agree with. Therefore, people in the minority may be convinced, sooner or later, that what they were ordered to do was the best choice, simply because they have learned to trust in the majority. Thus, they begin to loose individuality and gain confidence in the word of authority. In Doris Lessings article, Group Minds, she says, It is a portrait that may not have been acquired consciously, but is part of a general atmosphere or set of assumptions that influence our ideas about ourselves (Lessing 333). In other terms, she is saying that mans tendencies to obey have been gained, or obtained, without him having wanted to, unconsciously. She is also saying that man has obtained conformity ...

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

The Meaning of Libre in Spanish

The Meaning of Libre in Spanish Libre is the most common Spanish adjective for free- but it isnt used to refer to something that is available without charge or cost. For that, the word to use almost always is gratis. Instead, libre, related to words such as liberate and liberty, usually refers to being free in the sense of being free of restraints or sometimes in the sense of being available. Some examples of its use: En 2016, Argentina celebra 200 aà ±os del surgimiento de una nacià ³n libre y independiente. (In 2016, Argentina celebrates 200 years of the springing forth of a free and independent nation.)Soy hombre libre. No dependo de nadie. (Im a free man. I dont depend on anyone.)Serà © libre cuando mis padres no està ©n aquà ­. (I will be free when my parents arent here.) ¿Dà ³nde encontrar cosmà ©ticos libres de crueldad animal? (Where can I find cosmetics made free of animal cruelty?)Dejaron libres a los cinco presos. (They freed the five prisoners.)No habà ­a asiento libre a la vista. (There was not an available (or free) seat in sight.)Hay una diferencia de actitud entre la traduccià ³n libre y la traduccià ³n literal. (There is a difference in attitude between a free translation and a literal translation.)Todos tienen derecho a respirar aire libre de humo. (Everyone has the right to breathe smoke-free air.) Phrases Using Libre An abundance of phrases and idioms use libre. Among the most common: absolucià ³n libre - verdict of not guiltyaire libre, al aire libre - outdoorsamor libre - free lovecaà ­da libre - free falldar và ­a libre - to give permissiondà ­a libre - day off work or other obligationslibre de impuestos - tax-freelucha libre - wrestlingmercado libre - free market (an economics term)paso libre - something free of obstaclesprensa libre - free presspuerto libre - free portsoftware libre - open-source softwaretiempo libre - free timetiro libre - free throw (as in basketball), free kick (as in soccer)trabajar por libre - to do freelance work Words Related to Libre The two verbs most closely related to libre are  liberar and librar. Liberar is the more common and usually means to liberate, to release, or to let a person or a animal go free. Librar has a variety of seemingly unrelated meanings including saving someone from danger, drawing a check (monetary instrument), fighting ,and revealing. There are also several related compound nouns including librecambio (free trade), librecambista (advocate of free trade), and librepensador (freethinker). Other related words include librado (someone who draws or writes a check), liberal (liberal), and libertad (liberty). Etymology Libre comes from the Latin liber, which had a similar meaning to libre. From liber came the Latin verb liberare, meaning to set free or liberate. Its past participle, liberatus, became the source of English words such as liberate and liberation. Other Words for ‘Free’ The other adjective frequently used for free is gratis, meaning without cost. As in the third example, gratis can also be used as an adverb. Note that the singular and plural forms of gratis are the same. Este martes la cadena de comida rpida te da desayuno gratis. (This Tuesday the fast-food chain is giving you a free breakfast.)Prà ©stamos de sillas gratis para los bebà ©s. (Loans of free baby seats.)Aquà ­ puedes aparcar tu coche gratis. (Here you can park your car free.) The phrase exento de, although usually translated as exempt from, can sometimes be used instead of libre de for free of: El soporte debe estar limpio y exento de grasa. (The support should be clean and free of grease.)Éste papel no est exento de cido. (This paper isnt acid-free.) Finally, it is extremely common to translate the suffix free using the preposition sin, meaning without: En el mercado puedes comprar un amplio surtido de infusiones sin cafeà ­na. (In the market you can buy a large assortment of caffeine-free herbal teas.)La leche deshidratada sin grasa y la leche descremada en polvo son muy similares. (Fat-free dehydrated milk and powdered skim milk are very similar.)Espero que puedas vivir sin ansiedad. (I hope you can live worry-free.) Key Takeaways Libre is the typical translation for free when it used as an adjective for meanings other than being without cost.Gratis is used when referring to something that has no cost.Libre is derived from the verb librar, which is related to the English verb liberate.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Ancient Chinese Contributions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Ancient Chinese Contributions - Essay Example Ancient Chinese contributions to civilization are numerous and continue to influence contemporary European and Asian culture. These contributions span all aspects of life, ranging from science and technology, to government, philosophy and art. As the various dynasties succeeded each other in Chinese history, each dynasty made its own unique contribution to the collective heritage of the world. A comprehensive list of Chinese contributions is amazing in its variety and its penetration into every aspect of our lives. This list includes silk, tea, porcelain, paper, printing, gunpowder, the mariner’s compass, plants (peach, apricot, citrus fruits, chrysanthemums, camellias and gingko), zinc, lacquer, medicines and leisure activities (playing cards, dominoes, kites and shadow play). The ornamental and exotic fish in aquariums and the folding parasol also originated from ancient China. (Bodde, 1942). This list is by no means exhaustive: some other Chinese contributions are the philo sophic doctrines of Confucianism and Taoism, the civil service examination, paper money, matches, the seismograph, stirrups, plowshares and calligraphy. (Caldwell and Fullem, 2006). The Han dynasty (202 B.C. – 220 A.D.) remains one of the most prolific contributors to civilization. The Silk Road, papermaking, iron technology, glazed pottery, the wheelbarrow, the seismograph, the compass, ships’ rudder, horse stirrups, the Chinese examination system, weaving and embroidery are all contributions from this period. (Caldwell and Fullem, 2006). ... These early compasses were south-pointers: south being the primary direction for the Chinese. A magnetized needle (obtained by rubbing an iron needle with a lodestone), was floated in a bowl of water with directional markings, or suspended from a thread, and incorporated the principle of magnetic deviation. The compass went on to become a navigational device at sea and on land, and made China the greatest sea power in the world. It cannot be denied that the Chinese invention of the compass is one of the most important milestones in the discovery of new trade routes and pioneered world navigation. (Bodde, 1942). The Tang dynasty (618 A.D. – 906 A.D) contributed the culture of tea drinking, scroll painting, gunpowder, civil service examinations, the flame thrower, brandy and whiskey, poetry, music and dance, and the doctrines of Confucianism and Taoism. The Chinese invention of gunpowder began with refinement of sulphur and saltpeter by alchemists. (Caldwell and Fullem, 2006). T he initial use of gunpowder in fireworks and religious rituals was followed by its incorporation in warfare in the form of explosives: canons, flamethrowers, bombs and rockets. From simple bamboo tubes filled with gunpowder, the Chinese incorporated rocket fire-arrows in warfare. The Chinese military rockets were large and powerful, and were packed with gunpowder and iron shrapnel. It can also be said that the idea of the internal combustion engine originated in China, as the idea of an explosion in a self-contained cylinder was incorporated in these rockets: the rockets were designed to hold an iron pot which held and directed the thrust of the gunpowder propellant.

Friday, November 1, 2019

Of the Natural Condition of Mankind Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Of the Natural Condition of Mankind - Essay Example This is why Hobbes suggests that we lock our doors and that even though there be enforcement of laws we still take precautions. I implore you, gentleman and the like unlock your doors and let civility in.[ Can we know our minds This thing that exists beyond time or space. And does this knowledge free us. And yes we are made accountable to all things that ensue from our innate needs and wants as well as our positive goals dreams or thoughts. And then the question is, "Are the only worthwhile dreams, goals, desires and thoughts the only ones no one else wants" Are we that self-regarding According to ideas of political thought even our so called selfless acts are based on the desire to be seen in a better light. Therefore what we do for others still benefits us. This constant state of war is not necessarily mental but may be derived our of a more basic and life preserving need for us as humans to be in a state of homeostasis. "A dream deferred makes the heart sick." Though a higher power may be established no such agreement for a standard of living may be made unless a person, of their own free will agree to submit to that higher power. And if such higher power may be submitted to namely God. The glue that holds it all together is love. For where there is no law according to Hobbes there can be real free will. Love. Against such there is no law[Holy Bible]. It may be pertinent therefore to establish those that love first obeying the one command that overrules all else. Then there can be real freedom. Imagine a man that were in the world alone. Everyone else is asleep. According to Holy Scriptures it states do not awaken love before it so desires. Yet love does arouse one to a deeper consciousness. You become aware that there is more than just you, your needs, your desires and your wants. A child can not yet understand this. That is, if we agree with Piaget's level of development. Whoever gets to it first. It goes beyond the strongest. It goes beyond will. It comes with intelligence. It is bred within the genes. Thus, this may be why marriages are one way to form alliances, treaties or pacts. The passions that incline men to peace again is not fear of death but love. Ignorance vs. denial. Is ignorance really bliss If therefore, a love such as Christ can compel us it motivates us. It drives us. The whip is good for one thing- training and conditioning but left to one's own devices it is good for not much else. Because the perfect standard is not worldly or based on human ability the perfection still stands. This perfection can never be tainted because it is our of our reach. All fall short of the glory of God. A law that forbids one until they have knowledge of such law is a flawed argument. It is like the tree of good and evil. Once Adam and Eve ate of the tree their eyes were open. Is it ignorance or is it marriage that is bliss Neither! Love is blissful. Though a slave has no rights or personal properties they do have the ability, the power, the capacity and freedom to love. Against such there is no law. St. Thomas Aquinas supports this argument by stating that one need not be smart to understand God- Who is love. Contrary to Hobbes statement that out of fear, or fear of punishment but it is out of deep regard for the safety and protection of another. Again love protects. Fear is

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

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

Photography - Assignment Example Photograph 2-2 shows a picture of a bride. It talks about shooting wedding photographs like any other professional without having to retake the shots. It’s all about passion and then getting the right shot and having confidence in yourself. In photo 3-3, shooting on a tripod stand makes the camera still and steady. This provides a chance to capture tack-sharp shots. Therefore, the quality of the tripod comes a long way in ensuring one gets shots like a pro. In order to get those quality photos one has to invest much on the accessories that accompany any shooting. In photo 3-4, it’s not only about changing the camera settings, but also getting the right equipment and more so what the pros use. Photograph 4-2 shows a ball head, which is used to position a camera at any angle with one turn of the knob. Like a tripod, a good ball head comes with a price which is worth. Photo 5-2 describes how a release cable allows one to get a tack-sharp shot. The cable is attached to the camera and upon pressing of the button the photo is taken without necessarily pressing the shutter on the camera which would otherwise compromise the sharpness of your photos. Photo 5-3 details the B&H as trusted dealers in camera and all accessories because of their professional photographers who offer the best advice and have cheaper more quality products that meet a photographer’s needs perfectly. Another technique of getting a sharp photo, especially in the field is using â€Å"The Death Grip’. As depicted in photo 6, holding a camera with the strap twisted on one’s arm and wrapping it around the wrist gives extra stability and hence clear

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Individual Learner Differences In Second Language Acquisition Education Essay

Individual Learner Differences In Second Language Acquisition Education Essay 1. Introduction The fact that competency levels attained by second language learners fluctuate so greatly (Lightbown and Spada, 2006: 53), raises an intriguing question with regards to second language acquisition (SLA), why are some individuals better at acquiring language than others? A major reason for this variation in L2 proficiency levels is commonly attributed to individual learner differences (ILDs), (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2005: 2). This essay sets out to explain the important role that ILDs play in SLA, through an in-depth discussion on the contribution made by L2 motivation. Three influential theories offering different perspectives on L2 motivation: the Socio-educational model, self-determination theory and the Process model will be discussed in detail. I will also look at the theoretical shifts currently taking place in L2 motivation research, before concluding with a discussion on the strategies that teachers can use to instil and nurture motivation in their students. 2. Role of ILDs in SLA Individual differences are unique learning characteristics which are present in all learners to varying degrees. They can help to distinguish learning needs and identify the extent to which learners will succeed in acquiring a second language (Lightbown and Spada, 2006). These differences are social, cognitive and affective in nature, and include aptitude, motivation, age, personality, learning strategies, learning styles and anxiety (for detailed reviews, see for example, Naiman et al 1995; Skehan 1989; DÃ ¶rnyei 2005). Their relevance to language achievement has made ILDs, a focus of considerable attention in SLA research (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2005). Developments in research, especially in relation to aptitude and motivation, has seen a shift from a product-orientated approach to a more process-orientated stance (ibid: 6). Recent studies have highlighted the importance of the temporal nature and situational context of learner characteristics (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2009). Current arguments however, have suggested that rather than being monolithic variables, ILDs are complex attributes consisting of a combination of sub-components and sub-processes (ibid). All ILDs are implicated in language learning, however they do not function in isolation and some even have elements in common (Gardner, 2008). A look at some of the influential theories which have emerged from research on L2 motivation over the last fifty years will help to explain the complex role that ILDs can play in the language learning process. 3. L2 Motivation Motivation is a learners orientation towards learning goals (Gardner, 1985), and is regarded by many as the most influential ILD in the language learning process (Ellis, 1985). Therefore its relevance to the classroom environment becomes evident, and to know what drives this motivation is of great pedagogic interest. Many of the learner characteristics involved in the SLA process are dependent on, and in some cases completely overridden by motivation (Gardner, 2006). A learner with a natural aptitude for learning languages, for example, may find it difficult to attain long-term language goals without the necessary motivation (ibid). On the other hand, high levels of motivation may lead to successful learning, even where little aptitude exists for language (ibid). Theories looking to explain the role of motivation in language learning have evolved through four main stages. DÃ ¶rnyei (2005) categorises these as: the Social Psychological period (1959-1990); the Cognitive-Situated period (1990s); the Process-orientated stage (late 1990s); and finally a period (last decade) consisting of new approaches that have focused on a learners sense of self-identity. Table 1 summarises the main L2 motivation theories and concepts. 3.1. The Social Psychological approach to L2 motivation Interest in L2 motivation was initiated by social psychologists Wallace Lambert, Robert Gardner and associates as early as 1959, looking to understand the language and cultural Approach to motivation Examples Social-psychological Socio-educational model, (Gardner, 1985). Key concepts: Integrative motivation, Integrativeness, integrative orientation. Theory of Linguistic self-confidence, (Clement, 1986). Key concepts: Self-confidence a self-belief of having the ability to manage the learning process. Cognitive Situated Self-determination theory, (Brown, 1994; Noels et al., 2000). Key concepts: intrinsic/extrinsic motivation, amotivation. Attribution theory, (Weiner, 1992). Key concepts: attributing past success or failure to current actions. Goal setting theory, (Oxford and Shearin, 1994). Key concepts: Cognitive perception of goals as a motivating factor. Goal orientation theory, (Ames, 1992). Key concepts: Goal mastery andperformance orientations. Motivation and learner strategy use, (Oxford and Nyikos; 1989, Macintyre et al., 1996). Key concepts: Motivation as a key factor in stimulating strategy use. Task Motivation, (Julkunen, 2001; Dornyei, 2003). Key concepts: task execution, appraisal, action control. Mixed approach i. Willingness to communicate, (Macintyre et al., 1998, 2003). Key concepts: Willingness to communicate as a key factor for achieving communicative competency. Process-orientated Process model, (Dornyei and Otto, 1998; Dornyei, 2001b). Key concepts: temporal nature of motivation, which includes a preactional/actional/postactional stage. Current and future L2 motivational self system, (Dornyei, 2005). Key concepts: ideal L2 self, ought-to L2 self. Complex dynamic systems, (Larsen-Freeman, 2007). Key concepts: integrating different theoretical perspectives. Table 1. Some of the different approaches used in L2 motivation research conflicts between English and French speaking communities in Canada. Their research adopted a socio-psychological approach, based on the central idea that a learners success in acquiring a second language is dictated by an attitude towards the target language community (Gardner, 1985). Their research on students learning French showed that aptitude and motivation are closely associated with achievement in language learning (ibid). They concluded that motivation is characterised by an individuals willingness to be like members of the target community (ibid). A model based on a socio-psychological approach that has been very influential in L2 motivation research is Gardners socio-educational model (see for example, Gardner and Lambert, 1972; Gardner, 1985; Gardner and MacIntyre, 1991). The most recent version of this model is shown in figure 1. LANGUAGE ACHIEVMENT Other Factors (for example, Learning strategies, language ANXIETY (Gardner, 2001)) Other Support LANGUAGE APTITUDE INTEGRATIVE MOTIVATION INTEGRATIVENESS MOTIVATION ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE LEARNING SIITUATION Figure 1. A basic model of the role of motivation in SLA (adapted from Gardner (2001b)). The most elaborate and researched aspect of Gardners model is integrative motivation, which he defines as the motivation to learn a L2 because of a positive attitude towards, and a desire to integrate with that community (Gardner, 2001b). The three variables that constitute integrative motivation are (ibid): Integrativeness this represents a desire to learn a second language to identify with the target community, and is reflected in a learners behaviour through the following: An integrative orientation, representing the reason for learning, which in this case is an interest in learning an L2 to interact with the target community. A positive attitude towards the target language group. An interest in foreign languages or a general openness to all language groups. Attitudes towards the learning situation (ATLS) this refers to attitudes towards the language teacher, the course in general, the course materials and other factors related to the learning context. Motivation this is a learners goal driven behaviour. A motivated learner: makes a concerted effort to learn a language, for example by doing extra work and seeking more learning opportunities, displays a strong desire to learn a language and is focused on achieving the goal, enjoys learning and has an overall positive attitude towards the learning process. An integratively motivated learner is therefore: motivated to learn a second language, keen to interact and be associated with the target community, and has a positive outlook on the learning situation. To sustain consistent levels of motivation, integrativeness and/or a positive ATLS are essential characteristics, however, it is the motivation element of the Integrative Motivation complex that is the active variable and which directly influences Language Achievement (Gardner, 2001b: 6). Therefore, a learner who has a high level of integrativeness and/or a positive attitude towards learning, but is low in motivation is unlikely to achieve high levels of proficiency. The affect of instrumental factors on L2 motivation was not included in Gardners core theory, but he suggests that they could be one of the other supports affecting motivation (Gardner, 2001a: 7). Based on this, it is possible to substitute integrativeness with instrumentality in the representation of the model in figure 1, to give what Gardner calls Instrumental Motivation (ibid). This is a motivation to learn a L2 for instrumental gains, such as better employment or education. An instrumentally motivated learner has specific communicative needs, which provide a purpose for learning and an impetus for successful language acquisition (Gardner and Lambert, 1972). Gardners model makes little reference to other attributes, for example, personal aspirations and past experiences, which could affect an integratively motivated learner. However, empirical research in different contexts is continuously bringing to light the possibility of including more factors in the general L2 motivational construct. To check Gardners model for adaptability, Tremblay and Gardner (1995) integrated other measurements of motivation, such as anxiety and goal-setting strategies. Empirical testing of the extended model showed that addition of the extra variables did not affect the structure of the original model (ibid). Research on motivation in different context has led some applied linguists to suggest the notion of the language community associated with integrative motivation is untenable for international learners of English (Ushioda and DÃ ¶rnyei, 2009). In a multi-lingual society like China, for example, few opportunities exist for interacting with native English communities. In such a context, instrumental motivation or external factors (for example, exams and employment) are more prevalent among learners than a desire for integrating with native speakers of English (Warden and Lin, 2008). For this reason, other researchers have suggested that the integrative construct should at least be re-examined by including the global L2 learning context and the multi-dimensionality of a learners identity. DÃ ¶rnyei and Csizer, (2002) suggested that rather than identifying with an external language community, the integrative concept could be more accurately linked to a learners internal process of identification with a self-concept. DÃ ¶rnyeis (2005) motivational self-system which developed from this idea is discussed in section 3.4. 3.2. Self-Determination Theory and SLA Influenced by advances in motivational psychology, and a need to understand the classroom-situated nature of motivation, L2 research moved on from a socio-psychological approach, to look at affects of classroom-situated factors on motivation. Self-determination theory (SDT) is a highly influential approach in motivational psychology, and several studies have attempted to incorporate some of its components to explain L2 motivation (for example, Brown, 1994; Noels et al., 2000). According to this theory there are three types of learner motivations: intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and amotivation (Deci and Ryan, 2002). These motivations form a continuum depending on the degree of learner self-determination, where self-determination is as an individuals sense of choice and control over the learning process (ibid). Intrinsic Motivation (IM) refers to an individuals motivation to undertake an activity, purely for personal feelings of pleasure and enjoyment associated with that activity, and is driven by a desire for competence and self-determination (Noel et al., 2000). Intrinsically motivated students are considered more likely to achieve autonomy, competence and fulfil long-term language goals (Ramage, 1990). Extrinsic motivation (EM), on the other hand, relates to actions carried out for: instrumental gains, in search for reward or to avoid punishment (Noels et al., 2000). This motivation can vary in degree depending on the extent to which the activity is controlled by the learner or other variables (Deci and Ryan, 2002). Vallerand et al., (1993) have suggested six subtypes of IM and EM which lie on a continuum of self-determination (see table 2). Noels (2001) suggests that L2 learner motivation can be assessed using the intrinsic and extrinsic constructs. These motivations however, do not necessarily have to be exclusive, for example, a learner whose behaviour is consistent with identified regulation may also exhibit some of the adjacent motivations on the continuum (ibid). Self-Determination Type of Motivation Description HIGH Zero Intrinsic Motivation to know Performing an activity for the pleasure associated with learning or exploring new knowledge. E.g., when reading a new book. Intrinsic Motivation to accomplish Performing an activity for the pleasure associated with accomplishing or creating something. E.g., a student doing more homework than is required. Intrinsic Motivation to experience stimulation Performing an activity for the stimulated sensations (e.g. pleasure and excitement) associated with engagement with the activity. E.g., a student who goes to class for the pleasure of participating in discussions. Extrinsic Motivation Identified Regulation Extrinsic motivation is internalised to the extent that learner behaviour is regulated by a sense of value and usefulness of the activity to the self. E.g., a student who studies the night before an exam because they think it is important to them. Extrinsic Motivation Introjected Regulation Learner behaviour is regulated by internalisation of past external means. E.g., studying the night before an exam because it is expected of a good student. Extrinsic Motivation External Regulation Learner behaviour is regulated completely by external means (rewards or constraints) showing the least self-determined form of extrinsic motivation. E.g., Studying the night before an exam because of pressure from parents. Amotivation A lack of extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. A learner feels their behaviour is regulated by factors out of their control, and may eventually drop out of the learning process. Table 2. Language Learning Orientation Scale: Intrinsic Motivation, Extrinsic Motivation and Amotivation (adapted from Vallerand et al., (1993)). Intrinsic motivation is characterised by a strong sense of self-determination, and is closely associated with integrative motivation (Noels, 2001). This suggests that students learning a language for pleasure may also be seeking interaction with the L2 community. Intrinsic motivation however, is identified more with attitudes towards learning, than the target community (ibid: 54). The social environment (for example, the teacher, family members and the L2 community) has considerable influence on a students perception of self-determination. A teacher plays a significant role in this regard, and can promote intrinsic motivation by encouraging learner autonomy and providing positive feedback (Noels, 2000: 55). Similarly, students learning for intrinsic reasons are more sensitive to the teachers instructional style (ibid). In contrast, the less self-determined external regulation component of extrinsic motivation is linked to instrumental behaviour (Noels, 2001: 53). A limitation of extrinsic behaviour is that it can have short-term characteristics. A study carried out by Ramage (1990) showed that students who learnt a language for academic reasons are more likely to discontinue future language classes. Extrinsic course pressures, for example, compulsory reading, can also negatively affect a learners intrinsic interests (DÃ ¶rnyei, 1994a). 3.3. A Process-orientated approach to motivation DÃ ¶rnyei and Ottos (1998) process model of motivation integrates various theoretical perspectives of L2 motivation, and draws attention to the temporal nature of motivation in classroom learning. The model is influenced by Heckhausen and Kuhls Action control theory, which proposes two sequential phases of motivational behaviour: an individuals motivation to form an attention, and a motivation to initiate and sustain the intended action (Heckhausen, 1991). DÃ ¶rnyei and Ottos model breaks down the motivational process into three temporal phases. The first relates to the transformation of initial desires to goals, and then intentions. The next sees these intentions being enacted, leading to the successful/unsuccessful accomplishment of goals, and the final phase is an overall evaluation of the learning process (see figure 2). Preactional Stage (Choice Motivation) Motivational Functions: generate motivation to select a goal; form an intention to act; select an action plan to enact the intention. Possible factors influencing motivation: goal properties; attitude towards the learning process; attitude towards the target community; perception of self-ability; social environmental encouragement or discouragement. Actional Stage (Executive Motivation) Motivational Functions: carry out sub-tasks to maintain motivation; ongoing appraisal of achievement; action control (self-regulation to help persevere with learning). Possible factors influencing motivation: quality of the learning experience; degree of autonomy; teacher, learner group and family influence/support; classroom structure (competitive or co-operative); knowledge and ability to use self-motivating, goal-setting and learning strategies. Postactional Stage (Motivational Retrospection) Motivational Functions: attribute reasons to success or failure; elaborate internal standards and action-specific strategies; dismiss original intention and further planning. Possible factors influencing motivation: personal attribution style; self-confidence; feedback. Figure 2. Process model of L2 learning motivation (adapted from Dornyei, (2003: 19)). An important assertion made by the process-orientated model is that motivational behaviour is influenced by different factors. Consequently, different theories of motivation can be associated with each phase (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2003: 18). Integrativeness, for example, may be the motivational influence on goal setting in the preactional stage. In the executive phase, situated aspects of motivation play a greater role, mechanisms of the task processing system are more relevant here (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2003). The retrospective links that learners make between the original goal and actual achievement in the post-actional stage are likely to be attributed to past learning experiences, a motivational behaviour addressed by Weiner (1992) in the attribution theory. Two aspects that the model overlooks are: the possibility of several actional processes running concurrently, or an actional process with multiple motivational influences (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2003). This is likely in a school setting, where students often have multiple goals (for example, social and academic) and overlapping motivational influences (for example, task, course or curriculum related) (ibid). The model assumes that the actional processes have defined boundaries, however in an educational context it may be difficult to identify where one actional process starts and the next begins. 3.4. Present and future: The motivational self-system and a Dynamic systems approach. Since the socio-psychological period of motivation research, the global reality of English has changed immensely. The rapid globalisation of English has challenged the validity of many SLA theories (Kachru, 1988), because these theories fail to consider the context of the world Englishes learner (Sridhar and Sridhar, 1992). With limited or no contact opportunities with the native target community, the notion of a self-concept (referring to an individuals images and cognitions of the self) suggested by DÃ ¶rnyei and Csizer (2002), is possibly a more relevant motivational feature in many EFL contexts. DÃ ¶rnyei developed this idea further, in his L2 motivational self-system, which equated integrativeness with an ideal L2 self (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2005; 2010). The main components of this system are: (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2010) Ideal L2 Self a L2-specific image of the attributes that one would like to possess. For example, hopes, desires, aspirations. Ought-to L2 Self a self-guide which refers to those attributes one thinks one ought to possess to meet expectations and avoid negative outcomes. L2 Learning Experience this refers to the executive motives (similar to those identified in the Process model) associated with the immediate learning environment and experience. For example, impact of the teacher, other learners, the course, the experience of success. The hypothesis behind the self-system is that a learners desire to become a person proficient in the L2, serves as a powerful motivating force to learn a language (Ushioda and DÃ ¶rnyei, 2009: 3-4). A recent study in the Japanese context showed that this desire represented by the ideal L2 self is equivalent to the concept of integrativeness in Gardners socio-educational model, but the ideal L2 self is probably more accurate in explaining motivated behaviour (Ryan, 2009) DÃ ¶rnyeis idea of placing the self at the centre of the conceptual role of motivation offers a new perspective, however it overlooks the process-orientated, and contextually dynamic nature of motivation. Justifying this complex nature of L2 motivation, can only be possible by integrating more than one approach (Macintyre et al., 2010). A possibility of combining different perspectives of motivation is suggested by Ushioda (2009) with her person-in-context, relational view of emergent motivation. She suggests that integrating relevant theoretical frameworks to support future analysis of the complex nature of interactional processes and contextual factors in motivational behaviour can help to provide a better understanding of how L2 motivation is shaped (ibid). A similar possibility is offered by the theoretical paradigms of dynamic systems theory (for a detailed review, see Larsen-Freeman and Cameron, 2008). This theory involves a study of systems, where the system is analysed as a whole rather than as its individual parts (ibid). Learner variation is seen as the result of a complex system of relevant factors working in unison, rather than as a result of differences in individual determinants (for example, aptitude or motivation) (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2009). As an example of an application of a dynamic systems approach to L2 learning, DÃ ¶rnyei suggests the possibility of identifying an optimal combination of motivational, cognitive and affective factors with regard to task behaviour, that function as an integrated unit (for a detailed review see, ibid). 4. The practical value of theory motivational strategies for the classroom Chomsky (1988) emphasises the vital role played by teachers in learner motivation by suggesting that ninety nine per cent of teaching involves getting students interested in learning. A language teachers motivational practice is also linked directly to increased levels of learner motivation (Guilloteaux and DÃ ¶rnyei, 2008). Therefore, the need to use appropriate strategies to manage classroom motivation is extremely relevant to L2 practitioners. Motivational strategies are techniques used by a teacher to manage learner motivation, or used by individual learners to regulate their own motivation levels (Guilloteaux and DÃ ¶rnyei, 2008). Although, several motivation strategies have been proposed in L2 literature (for example, Williams and Burden, 1997; DÃ ¶rnyei, 2001a; Alison and Halliwell, 2002), very few are supported by empirical evidence. Self-motivating strategies for learners are an even less researched area of L2 motivation (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2006). An example of an elaborate, theory-based framework which looks at motivational strategies from both a teacher and leaner perspective is proposed by DÃ ¶rnyei (2001a). This model consists of four phases (ibid): Creating the basic motivational condition, by establishing a good student-teacher relationship, a relaxed learning atmosphere and a cohesive learner group. Generating initial motivation by: Strengthening language related values and attitudes (intrinsic, integrative or instrumental values). Increasing the expectancy of success. Increasing goal-orientedness, for example, by making learners aware of the practical (non-syllabus related) reasons or value of doing an activity. Making teaching materials relevant. Creating realistic learner beliefs. Many new learners have inaccurate beliefs about language learning, a realisation of their falseness can have a demotivating influence. Maintaining and protecting motivation, to keep sight of goals, and maintain interest and concentration. The most relevant strategies in this phase include: Making the learning process stimulating and interesting. Presenting tasks in a motivating manner, making them stimulating and relevant. Setting specific learner goals. Preserving the learners self-esteem and promoting their self-confidence. Creating learner autonomy. Promoting self-motivating learner strategies in order to: Preserve the original goal commitment, for example, by encouraging learners to remember favourable expectations or positive rewards. Maintain concentration, for example, by encouraging learners to: identify and manage distractions; and focus on the first steps to take when beginning an activity. Eliminate boredom and add extra interest in a task, for example, by showing learners how to add a twist to a task and using their imagination to make it more stimulating. Manage disruptive emotions and generate a positive emotional state, for example, by getting students to self-encourage and introducing them to relaxation techniques. Remove negative and utilise positive environmental influences, for example, by encouraging students to remove distractions and asking for peer help. Encouraging positive retrospective self-evaluation, by : Promoting positive learner attributions (an idea supported by the Attribution theory, Weiner, 1992) Providing motivational feedback, that is informative and encouraging. This can help to increase learner satisfaction and self-confidence, and encourages constructive self-reflection on weaknesses. Using rewards and grades cautiously, as they can distract the learner from the real purpose of the task (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2006:730). When they are used, they should be offered in a motivational manner. The most motivating of teachers are considered to be those who rely on a few simple and carefully selected techniques (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2006: 730-731). Therefore, achieving optimal levels of learner motivation are more likely if motivational strategies are matched by a teacher selectively, to learners specific needs. 5. Conclusion This essay discussed the significant role that motivation, as an example of an ILD variable, plays in the long and arduous task of second language acquisition. I presented three influential theories that have approached L2 motivation from different perspectives, and looked at some of the current trends in motivational research. A look at some possible motivational strategies demonstrated how theoretical concepts can be applied to improve the quality of classroom learning. The motivational characteristics of the L2 learner highlight the complex but influential role played by ILDs in SLA. Many of the variables involved in L2 motivation have a degree of overlap, and interact both with each other and other ILDs (Gardner, 2008). In order to understand the true nature of these webs of interactions and their affect on L2 achievement, the possibilities offered by a dynamic systems approach is probably the best way forward.