PR and the Media - Networking and Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

PR and the Media - Networking and Ethics - Essay Example Introduction Public relations are one of the most important parts of marketing. Public relation is one of the key elements of the promotional mix. Public relations can be defined as a way of communication through which the products or the services offered by one marketer is promoted or evaluated by a third party and hence this helps the marketers to develop an atmosphere of credibility and trust among the customers. Journalists and reporters happen to be one of the most important parts of the modern media. From the perspective of the marketing and public relations, the journalists play an important role as a reference group. The evaluation made by the journalists about an organization or a product can actually influence the buying behavior of the public and hence the marketers usually look to develop strong relationships with the journalists. However, among all these the ethical aspects of the journalism are some that needs to be maintained. The present study has been conducted in or der to analyze the relationship between journalism and PR keeping the ethical aspects of journalism in mind. Also the study looks to understand how the three different businesses can use one media connector to great effect (Belch and Michael, 2005). Part -1 How journalistic ethics affects marketing public relations professionals Journalistic ethics comprises of the principles of the ethics and good practices applicable to the specific challenges faced by the journalists. Presently this subset of the media ethics is mainly known as the code of ethics. Increasing influence of the public relation professional has been quite detrimental to ethical journalism. The role of a journalist in the society is to provide information that serves the best interest of the public. This needs commitment to the relatively less flexible principle of reporting the most balanced and accurate version of the events and stories. On the other hand PR uses persuasive speeches to serve specific interests. Howe ver, the public relations experts are not at all bounded by the ethical code of the journalists. To explain the roles of journalism and public relations in simple terms, it can be said that role of journalism in the business of reporting and public relations is inevitable. But the penalty of such conflicts would lead to the inevitable decay to the overall quality of PR and journalism (Kapferer, 2008). Importance of building relationships with journalists for the marketers The relationship of the marketers with journalists is extremely important and this is also the base of the interaction with the media. If someone is heading a startup company that has not been established yet it would be extremely important for the marketer to read the local publications and get the names of the local journalists and the reporters. Then the marketer may decide to contact appropriate reporter or journalist. It can be assumed that majority of the time the offer made by the marketer would be accepted simply because the journalists are constantly searching for news and happen to be a lot more approachable than what normal people may perceive. However it is also advised that the marketer should not appear as though the marketer is looking for free publicity because at the end of the day it is a win-win situation for both the parties. The same concept applies for established firms also as journalists can act as a credible source of communications as the buyers would

Rationalism vs Empiricism Using Descartes 2nd Meditation & Hume Essay Example for Free

Rationalism vs Empiricism Using Descartes 2nd Meditation Hume Essay Q3:What are the main differences between rationalism and empiricism as approaches to knowledge? Explain the advantages and disadvantages of each, using Descartes (Second Meditation) as the example of a rationalist, and Hume or Locke as the example of an empiricist. In your view which approach better explains the common-sense knowledge of the world that we take for granted? Common-sense knowledge is information we know and understand unproblematically. It could be that a spider has six legs, your two times tables or that in answering a multiple choice test, it is a good idea to bring a rubber and fill in your answers in pencil. It is information gained from ordinary life. Epistemology is a philosophical term in reference to the nature and limitations of knowledge. It addresses firstly what is knowledge, secondly how is knowledge acquired and thirdly the limitations of knowledge. Rationalism and empiricism are two approaches which seek to provide answers to these questions (Cottingham, 1988). Empiricism perceives that the development of concepts and ideas are dependent on the senses (Markie, 2008). Alternatively rationalism ascertains that reasoning, intuition and deduction are the ultimate vehicles to acquiring knowledge, not sensory experience. These theories do not necessarily exist in opposition of each other, but can co-exist to describe how one views the acquisition of knowledge in different fields (Markie, 2008). Throughout this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each view using Descartes’ ‘Second Meditation’ in contrast to Hume’s ‘Enquiry Concerning the Human Understanding’. I will then elaborate how the Empiricist perspective provides a better explanation to common sense knowledge of the world we live in. Rationalism Rationalism is a method in which the criterion of the truth is not sensory but intellectual and deductive. The rationalistic perspective survives on the assumption that firstly, there is a rational structure to the world and secondly, that people have the capacity to comprehend it. It utilises the deductive methods of logic to provide a model for all human knowledge and relies on intuition (Markie, 2008). This is not always the case, so this philosophy cannot be relied in all circumstances. Rationalism is founded on the thesis of Intuition/Deduction, thesis of Innate Knowledge or Innate Concept thesis separately or in some combination (Markie, 2008). The Intuition/Deduction thesis proposes that in a particular subject area, some information is known by intuition alone or that knowledge is gained by deduction from intuited propositions. Experiences are incapable of developing one’s knowledge but can catalyse thinking causing knowledge to progress from unconsciousness to consciousness (Cottingham, 1988). The Innate Knowledge thesis asserts that some knowledge is inherent within humanity like DNA, as part of our rational nature. The Innate Concept theory is based on the assertion that some of our concepts are not gained from experience (Markie, 2008). The rational nature organically possesses an individual’s concepts. Sense experiences might catalyse a process by which concepts are better understood but experience does not provide the concepts or determine the information they contain, rationality does (Markie, 2008). Other minor theories which are used less significantly to endorse Rationalism are the Indispensability of Reason Thesis and the Superiority of Reason Thesis. The Indispensability of Reason theorem states that we gain knowledge in a certain area when we utilise deduction and employ intuition. The Innate concepts and instances could not have been gained through the sense experience. The second strain stems that knowledge gained â€Å"a priori† through reasoning is superior to that gained through experience (Markie, 2008). In reference to Descartes’ Second Meditation, he explains how rationality can be used to pick up information that is not completely provided by the senses through the example of the hats and coats (Descartes, 1984). Rationalism can provide knowledge which is otherwise unattainable â€Å"Something which I thought was seeing with my eyes is in fact solely grasped by the faculty of judgement which is my mind. † Empiricism Empiricism is the other branch of epistemology, where knowledge is discovered through experience and observation, modelled on natural sciences. Knowledge is â€Å"a posteriori† catalysed by a sensory experience (Markie, 2008). Empiricism is not based on a definitive complete rational system of knowledge but does provide verifiable understandings and information, useful for everyday life (Hume, 1975). In David Hume’s piece â€Å"An enquiry concerning the human understanding and concerning the principals of morals†, Hume purports that the  Ã¢â‚¬Å"†¦most lively thought is still inferior to the dullest sensation. † Hume interjects that thoughts and ideas are less lively perceptions in contrast to impressions where we are encouraged to feel, experience and will (Hume, 1975). He labours his point through the example of the man in a fit of rage, as opposed to someone thinking of espousing those feelings. Rationalism only recalls the information or experience. It is incomparable to the intensity from the original experience provided by empiricism. It might appear that thoughts are without the same restrictions the body possess (Hume, 1975). In reality they have ‘narrowly confined limits with no more creative power than compounding, transposing, augmenting or diminishing the materials provided by the senses’. If a person is without the capacity of one of the senses, they are devoid of the information provided by that sense and are incapable of understanding information attached to that sensation (Hume, 1975). Restoring that sense enables them to receive sensory input, enabling them to conceive the attached ideas. This proves the importance of the sensory experience and that without it understanding is impossible. Comparison In my opinion, Empiricism better explains the common-sense view of the world. This is because knowledge gained through rational thought however much you can understand it, is not engrained or integrated into your core beliefs to the same degree as that gained through tangible experience. Knowledge gained through experience is more strongly felt and can be considered to be superior to knowledge gained by reflection (Hume, 1975). Without an experience of the subject in focus, the information is detached and reflection cannot proceed to occur. Intuition and deduction, however relevant, are open to deception and can lead to inaccurate assumptions. People previously believed the earth was flat and the earth was the centre of the universe, as this â€Å"information† fit their current schemas. It made sense but lead to wrong conclusions as it lacked testing. It is through empirical observation that accurate insight was reached. Their rational thinking followed logical deduction and was believed to be correct due to their intuition, but even rational thinking can be fallible leading to wrong assumptions (Descartes, 1984). It is proven that when people possess strongly held beliefs, they perceive information in such a way to support their current understanding and deny opposing views, filtering out information that does not fit their current schemas like putting blinkers on a horse. Although they believe their thoughts to be rational, their powers of deduction are compromised and can be rationally wrong. This significantly limits their ability to gain knowledge (Descartes, 1984). Conclusion Rationalism and Empiricism are two distinctly different views relating to epistemology and the degree of input that the senses provide in the formation of knowledge. Rationalism through intuition, deduction and rational logic ascertains certain knowledge which perhaps cannot be scientifically proven through observation (Markie, 2008). On the other hand, Empiricism understands the role of sensory experience and observation in order to develop one’s knowledge. In reality, both are useful and even essential to the formation of any knowledge. References Cottingham, P (1988) The Rationalists, Oxford University Press. Oxford; New York Descartes, R. (1984) Meditations. Second Meditation, ‘The nature of the human mind, how it is better known than the body’, translated by Cottingham, J. in The Philosophical Writings of Descartes, vol II (Cambridge U. P. , 1984) pp 16-23 Hume, D. (1975) An enquiry Concerning Human Understanding [Section 2, ‘Of the Origin of Ideas’ (P. H. Nidditch, ed. , Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1975), pp17-22. Markie, P (2008), Rationalism vs. Empiricism, The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, viewed 2nd October 2011, http://plato. stanford. edu/entries/rationalism-empiricism/.

Budget Deficit & National Debt :: essays research papers

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the short- and long-term effects of current budget deficits and the nation debt. In order to do this; I first had to find out exactly what they were. I will also discuss whether I think the government should operate with a balanced budget. Budget deficit is the amount by which total government spending is more than government income during a specified period; the amount of money which the government has to raise by borrowing or currency emission in order to make up for the shortfall in tax revenues. National debt denotes the total sum of the outstanding debt obligations of a country's central government. I discovered that many people use the term somewhat more broadly to refer to the total indebtedness of all levels of government, including regional and local governments and sometimes also the indebtedness of government owned business entities such as local transit and communications systems or nationalized industries as well. The national debt represents the accumulated total of all the government budget deficits of past years, less the accumulated total of all the government budget surpluses of past years. In the United States, the national debt consists almost entirely of interest-bearing "IOU" instruments that are usually re-sellable on organized financial markets such as, for example, U.S. bonds, U.S. treasury notes, and U.S. treasury bills. These IOUs are originally purchased from the Treasury by private individuals, private corporations, insurance companies, pen sion funds and banks (both inside the United States and outside its borders), and the Treasury then uses the money it raised to bridge its spending gap when its budget is in deficit. The Treasury also sells IOUs to other Federal agencies that operate so-called trust funds -- primarily the Social Security Administration and other Federal retirement programs. The complication here is that since this is money that the government "owes to itself," it is not counted as part of the national debt in any realistic system of accounting. I find this to be really strange. Money to pay the annual interest owed to the owners of the government's debt instruments has to be provided through appropriations in every year's Federal budget. These interest payments on the national debt constitute as one of the largest spending categories in the budget. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is an estimate of the total money value of the entire final goods and services produced in a given one-year period using the factors of production located within a particular country's borders.

Psychodynamic Theories Essay

As a group over the last few weeks we have been dicussing has a group the 3 main theories of counselling and after careful deliberation ive chosen to do my presentation on the psychodynamic theory. Psychodynamics is the theory and systematic study of the psychological forces that underlie human behaviour. It is especially interested in the dynamic relations between conscious and unconscious motivation . Psychodynamic therapies depend upon a theory of inner conflict, wherein repressed behaviours and emotions surface into the patient’s consciousness; generally, one conflict is subconscious . Psychodynamics was initially developed by Sigmund Freud ,Carl Jung and Alfred Adler. By the mid 1940s and into the 1950s, the general application of the â€Å"psychodynamic theory† had been well established. When talking about Psychodynamic theory the first name that pops into most peoples heads is Sigmund Freud. Sigmund Freud was Born in Austria on May 6, 1856, Sigmund Freud theorized and practiced neuropsychology, studying first hysteria and then sexuality. A highly controversial intellectual figure of the 20th century, he studied dreams, defined what he called the Oedipus complex and laid out three stages of infantile sexual development . He remains one of the most influential figures in today’s world. His name alone symbolizes the importance of his theories, and the name that comes to most people’s heads when saying the word psychology is Sigmund Freud. Freud was a psychodynamic psychologist and that came from Freud’s view on the mind is in the shape of an iceberg. He believes that mankind’s mind works in the unconscious. Every choice that mankind makes he is aware of, but maybe the consequences of our action might be unknown. The Structure of Personality which is another interesting part of Freud’s theory basically states that we have an ID, a Superego and an Ego. The ID is a biological reservoir of urges and impulses that need to be gratified. He says the ID does not have a conscious , it acts on instinct and it seeks out gratification and pleasure. It is the pleasure principle. The Superego is the Morality Principle, and the Superego knows the difference between right and wrong. The Superego is a bunch of learned internalized morals and values of society. This is  basically the thing that keeps the ID in check. Freud said that Superego is our conscious, and that the Superego is the most powerful tool (guilt and pride). Last but not least is the Ego, which is the reality principle. The Ego finds socially acceptable ways to satisfy the ID. It finds the balance between the ID and reality. The functions of the Ego is to find a compromise between the ID and the Superego. The Ego must also learn to deal with anxiety, and it also helps to boost the self-esteem. Without the Ego there would be no mental health. After researching Freud’s theory of the Structure of Personality I feel we have different parts of our behavior that we can control and that we are conscious about and there are other behaviors that come directly from our unconscious . Our ego lies to us, denies, falsifies, and distorts reality which in turn causes us to create what Freud likes to call the seven defense mechanisms. The first of the seven defense mechanisms is Repression. Repression pushes the problem to the subconscious. It is the exclusion of impulses and thoughts from the conscious mind. Next comes Denial, and denial is the cutting of the conscious mind from external threats. ANTHONY BILLSON 5. 2 PAGE 3 An example of this would be when you are walking in the mall with your girlfriend and a beautiful woman walks by and you look but when your girlfriend asks you say, â€Å"I wasn’t looking at her. † Next there is a defense mechanism called Sublimation which is the changing of bad behavior and impulses into socially acceptable behavior and impulses. One example of this could be playing football for a scholarship in order to go to college. Another defense mechanism is Reaction Formation which is a development of behavior opposite of that which brings you anxiety . The next mechanism is called Projection whichis when the unconscious attribution of your thoughts and feelings is brought onto others. Finding flaws in others is a good example of Projection. Displacement is the next defense mechanism, and this is when an urge is placed onto another object. Taking out anger onto others when you really should be mad at yourself. Last but not least is the defense mechanism of Rationalization which is giving a good reason in place of the true reason. Another well known psychologist which is actually a student of Freuds’ is Carl Jung who is also a psychodynamic psychologist, Carl Jung was born July 26, 1875 in Kesswil, Switzerland and he went a little deeper than Freud did in his theories and he challenges some of his ideas. One is that Jung’s iceberg is right side up and at the top of the iceberg is the ego, and the level underneath that is the personal unconscious, and the final level of the iceberg is finally the collective unconscious which is almost the exact opposites of Freud’s. What I mean by deeper is that he feels that man is not just sexual but spiritual as well. He says that the major difference in man is based on the Libido which is your sex drive. As you can see Jung has a much broader level of human interest. Jung theories are strongly based on Darwin’s theory of Evolution. Jung thinks we evolved behaviorally which has allowed us to prosper and move forward in order to keep up with society. The next part of Carl Jung’s theory is the Archetypal Complex, which are common ways of dealing with the world. In other words it’s a genetically transmitted response strategy. It ensures survival. There are two examples of Archetypal Complexes and they are the enemy archetype and the social archetype. . There are examples in everyday life when a person does not know what something is they immediately show some sort of aggression or frustration which proves they are afraid of what is different or what they do not really know or understand. The social archetype basically means strength in numbers. Also the social archetype is what we look to for support and look to interact and socialize with. The response strategy is to develop a need to conform. With the whole idea of Archetypal Complexes different people use different ways to deal with the world’s problems, and enemy archetype could not be more precise about mankind being threatened by something that is different. The next part of Jung’s theory is the idea of Individuation which is the integration of our conscious perceptions of the outside world with our unconscious archetypal experiences. Polarities, which are opposite extremes, which ties in the Principle of entropy which, is a state of disorder and a randomness of energy. The last thing Jung states in his theory is the idea of wholeness which is having both polarities of our life met. Carl Jung’s theory challenges much of Freud’s, but in some ways is similar. Jung gets more into man being more spiritual than sexual which is almost the opposite of Freud. The next psychologist that I will mention will be a social psychodynamic psychologist by the name of Alfred Adler. Adler was born on February 7, 1870 and Adler’s theory states that all of us are born with a sense of inferiority as evidenced by how weak and helpless a newborn is. ANTHONY BILLSON 5. 2 PAGE 4 By this, Adler was able to explain that this inferiority is a crucial part of our personality, in the sense that it is the driving force that pushes us to strive in order to become superior. In addition to the Inferiority Theory of Personality, Adler also considers birth order as a major factor in the development of our personality. He believed that first born children may feel inferior and may even develop inferiority complex once their younger sibling arrives. The middle born children, on the other hand, are not as pampered as their older or younger sibling, but they have a sense of superiority to dethrone their older sibling in a healthy competition. Thus they have the greatest potential to be successful in life. The youngest children may feel like they have the least power to influence other members of the family. Because they are often the most pampered, they may develop personality problems of inferiority just like the first born. He was much less of a pessimist than Freud was; Almost a complete opposite from Freud. Adler believed that society impedes humans. His view of the mind is much like Carl Jung’s, but instead of having the ego at the top he has the conscious at the top with the unconscious on the bottom. He felt that social interests drive motivation, which is an innate drive to be social and to belong. He also stated in his theory that mankind is dependent on others and their reactions and their acceptance which in turn leaves mankind very vulnerable. The main idea of this theory is that he feels that mankind is more social than biological. A great example ofthis would definitely be that in today’s schools there are cliques and clans of different people that feel that they are cooler or better and than the people who are not as popular do whatever they can to fit in with a certain group. Teenagers nowadays are probably the best example there is of Adler’s theory of social interest. Another part of Adler’s theory that he brings up is the idea of the creative self which he says drives us toward human nature. There are two parts to this theory and they are the superiority complex and the inferiority complex. First of all the superiority complex states mankind tries to better itself in order to overcome our weaknesses. The second part of this theory is the inferiority complex which is when society measures us up to their standards. This is when we begin to avoid our weaknesses instead of trying to overcome them. The next theorist is Erich Fromm who was born in Frankfurt on March 23, 1900 and he was a liberal social psychodynamic psychologist who was also a student of Freuds. He believes that man is innately good and society is the thing that corrupts him. He also feels that the conscious mind dominates over the unconscious. Fromm says man is a social creature and he believes that mankind has social needs. He says life is a struggle and society makes our lives difficult. Fromm feels that the four needs of mans’ social life are relatedness, frame of reference , identity, and transcendence. Relatedness is a basic need and it states that man needs to feel connected to humanity whether it be friends, family, or activities. It also states that man has to beinteracted with other in order to belong. The problems start when a person feels that they are not a part of something. Relatedness is probably the most powerful need. Frame of Reference are common ideas and beliefs of looking at the world. This is when we seek out a belief system or a value system. We receive our frame of reference from where we find our relatedness. Without frame of reference there is no meaning to life. Identity is the next out of the four needs of mans social life which is when you know who you are and what you stand for. With identity you have to establish your own uniqueness or identity. Recognizing differences in others help you to find your own identity. ANTHONY BILLSON 5. 2 PAGE 5 Next comes transcendence which is rarely achieved and this means to rise above societies conformities in order to be an individual. With transcendence there is a risk of losing your relatedness, and for this not to happen relatedness must allow you rise above society. A conflict of freedom and loneliness means that the more that we become transcendent the more we lose the relatedness. My last theorist to talk about is Erik Erikson, he was born in Frankfurt, Germany in 1902 . Erikson impacted psychological theories by expanding upon Freud’s original five stages of development. He believed that each person progressed through eight, and ultimately nine (added by his widow), stages of development throughout their lives. Erikson’s theories were founded on the premise that environment played a major role in self-awareness, adjustment, human development, and identity . His belief in the Life Cycle later won him a Pulitzer Prize and a National Book Award. He was selected for the Jefferson Lecture and recognized for his achievement in the area of humanities. Erikson was best known for his impact on psychology through his theory on social development and his lengthy teaching career at prestigious institutions. Now after all my researching which has took me quite a while to get through cause there are so many sources to choose from ive realised that has psychodynamic theories have developed over the years our understanding of the human psyche has evolved and so as the effectiveness of the methods used by counsellors today. There is a negative side to this theory though cause some critics argue that psychodynamic theories are not falsifiable and therefore unscientific. In response to this criticism, proponents of psychodynamic theories point out that evidence does support some psychodynamic concepts. For example, research shows that there are unconscious mental processes, that people have mental representations of other people, and that people use unconscious defense mechanisms to protect themselves from unpleasant emotions such as anxiety. Other critics argue that psychodynamic theories are made by generalizing from a small number of patients to the whole human population. Relying only on case studies can lead to faulty conclusions. Still others argue that most psychodynamic theories are not based on studies that follow people from childhood to adulthood. Instead, psychodynamic theorists listen to descriptions of an adult patient’s past and draw conclusions about the relevance of childhood experiences however memories are not always reliable.

3 Paragraph Paper About the Novel Night Essay

Ellie weisel was the survior and author of the book Night. Ellie was born September 30,1928 in Sighet, Romania. He led a life representative of many Jewish children. Growing up in a small village in Romania, his world revolved around family, religious study, community and God. Yet his family, community and his innocent faith were destroyed upon the deportation of his village to the concentration camp in Auschwitz in 1944.†Never shall I forget that night, the first night in camp, which has turned my life into one long night, seven times cursed and seven times sealed.† (Elie Wiesel, Night, Ch. 3). Ellie Wiesel survived Auschwitz, Buna, Buchenwald and Gleiwitz. He was let free in 1945 and made his way to Paris and started wrighting his first novel Night. During world war 2 many people were anti-semitism. Anti-semitism means prejudice or hatred of, or discrimination against Jews for reasons connected to their Jewish heritage. Jewish people were blamed for the black pleg. They were also blamed for how bad the economy was. Hitler one of the most famous people during this time was using the jews as a scape-goat to get more votes. A scape-goat is just a group/someone you may put the blame all on.During world war 2 Jewish people were used as scape-goats and at the time of all this if you were German you may have been anti-semitism. One of the most memorable events at this time were The deportation of the jews. The nazis had enough of the jews and were ready to do there † final soulation† every jewish person with either that star david on them or had the letter J on there id was getting deportated to the concentration camps. See more:  The 3 Types of Satire Essay The German authorities used rail systems across the continent to transport, or deport, Jews from their homes, primarily to eastern Europe. German railroad officials used both freight and passenger cars for the deportations. German authorities generally did not give the jews getting deported food or water for the journey, even when they had to wait for days on railroad spurs for other trains to pass. Packed in sealed, suffering from overcrowding, they endured intense heat during the summer and freezing temperatures during the winter. Aside from a bucket, there was no sanitary facility. The stench of urine added to the humiliation and suffering of the deportees. Lacking food and water, many of the deportees died before the trains reached their destinations. Armed police guards accompanied the transports; they had orders to shoot anyone who tried to escape.

Grammar Exercise on Denotation and Connotation

Grammar Exercise on Denotation and Connotation This exercise will help you distinguish between the denotative and connotative meanings of words. In addition to reviewing the glossary entries for denotation and connotation, you may find it helpful to read the introduction to Choosing the Best Words: Denotations and Connotations. Instructions In each of the following sentences, the italicized word has a fairly neutral connotation. For each word in italics, list two synonyms (words with similar denotations): one with a negative connotation and the other with a positive connotation. Example Sometimes my thin friend annoys me. Negative connotation: scrawny Positive connotation: slim When you have completed the exercise, compare your answers with the sample responses on page two. I recognized the familiar smell of my roommates cooking.Scrapple is an inexpensive meal.Kevins interest in model cars has turned into a hobby.Uncle Henry lives in a hut deep in the woods.Phileas Fogg was an adventurous traveler.We stopped for lunch at a diner in West Virginia.My parents are committed, conservationists.My old laptop has finally died.In a quiet and stealthy way, Bartleby moved into the lawyers chambers.The teacher was mildly intimidated by Merdines assertive behavior. Sample Responses to the  Denotation and Connotation Exercise I recognized the familiar  smell  of my roommates cooking.negative connotation:  stenchpositive connotation:  aromaScrapple is an  inexpensive  meal.negative connotation:  cheappositive connotation:  thriftyKevins interest in model cars has turned into a  hobby.negative connotation:  obsessionpositive connotation:  avocationUncle Henry lives in a  hut  deep in the woods.negative connotation:  shackpositive connotation:  cabinPhileas Fogg was an  adventurous  traveler.negative connotation:  foolhardypositive connotation:  courageousWe stopped for lunch at a  diner  in West Virginia.negative connotation:  greasy spoonpositive connotation:  cafà © or bistroMy parents are committed  conservationists.negative connotation:  tree huggerspositive connotation:  environmentalistsMy  old  laptop has finally died.negative connotation:  decrepitpositive connotation:  venerableIn a quiet and  stealthy  way, Bartleby moved into the la wyers chambers.negative connotation:  sneakypositive connotation:  cunningThe teacher was mildly intimated by  Merdines  assertive  behavior.negative connotation:  bossypositive connotation:  confident

Gamma Rays are Part of the High-Energy Universe

Gamma Rays are Part of the High-Energy Universe Everyone has heard of the electromagnetic spectrum. Its a collection of all wavelengths and frequencies of light, from radio and microwave to ultraviolet and gamma. The light we see is called the visible part of the spectrum. The rest of the frequencies and waves are invisible to our eyes, but detectable using special instruments.   Gamma rays are the most energetic part of the spectrum. They have the shortest wavelengths and highest frequencies. These characteristics make them extremely hazardous to life, but they also tell astronomers a lot  about the objects that emit them in the universe. Gamma-rays do occur on Earth, created when cosmic rays hit our atmosphere and interact with the gas molecules. Theyre also a by-product of the decay of radioactive elements, particularly in nuclear explosions and in nuclear reactors. Gamma rays arent always a deadly threat: in medicine, theyre used to treat cancer (among other things). However, there are cosmic sources of these killer photons, and for the longest time, they remained a mystery to astronomers. They stayed that way until telescopes were built that could detect and study these high-energy emissions. Cosmic Sources of Gamma Rays Today, we know much more about this radiation and where it comes from in the universe. Astronomers detect these rays from extremely energetic activities and objects such as supernova explosions, neutron stars, and black hole interactions. These are difficult to study because of the high energies involved, they are sometimes very bright in visible light, and the fact that our atmosphere protects us from most gamma rays. To see these activities properly, astronomers send specialized  instruments to space, so they can see the gamma rays from high above Earths protective blanket of air. NASAs orbiting  Swift satellite and the Fermi Gamma-ray Telescope are among the instruments astronomers currently use to detect and study this radiation. Gamma-ray Bursts Over the past few decades, astronomers have detected extremely strong bursts of gamma rays from various points in the sky. By long, astronomers mean only a few seconds to a few minutes. However, their distances, ranging from millions to billions of light-years away, indicate that these objects and events must be very bright in order to be seen from across the universe.   The so-called gamma-ray bursts are the most energetic and brightest events ever recorded. They can send out prodigious amounts of energy in just a few seconds- more than the Sun will release throughout its entire existence. Until very recently, astronomers could only speculate about what caused such massive explosions. However, recent observations have helped them track down the sources of these events. For example, the Swift satellite detected a gamma-ray burst that came from the birth of a black hole that lay more than 12 billion light-years away from Earth. That is very early in the universes history.   There are shorter bursts, less than two seconds long, which were really a mystery for years. Eventually astronomers linked these events to activities called kilonovae, which occur when two neutron stars or a neutron star or a black hole merge together. At the moment of the merger, they give off short bursts of gamma-rays. They can also emit gravitational waves. The History of Gamma-ray Astronomy Gamma-ray astronomy had its start during the Cold War. Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) were first detected in the 1960s by the Vela fleet of satellites. At first, people were worried that they were signs of a nuclear attack. Over the next decades, astronomers began searching out the sources of these mysterious pinpoint explosions by searching for optical light (visible light) signals and in ultraviolet, x-ray, and signals. The launch of the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory in 1991 took the search for cosmic sources of gamma rays to new heights. Its observations showed that GRBs occur throughout the universe and not necessarily inside our own Milky Way Galaxy. Since that time, the BeppoSAX observatory, launched by the Italian Space Agency, as well as the High Energy Transient Explorer (launched by NASA) have been used to detect GRBs. The European Space Agencys INTEGRAL mission joined the hunt in 2002. More recently, the Fermi Gamma-ray Telescope has surveyed the sky and charted gamma-ray emitters.   The need for fast detection of GRBs is key to searching out the high-energy events that cause them. For one thing, the very short-burst events die out very quickly, making it difficult to figure out the source. X-satellites can pick up the hunt (since theres usually a related x-ray flare). To help astronomers quickly zero in on a GRB source, the Gamma Ray Bursts Coordinates Network immediately sends out notifications to scientists and institutions involved in studying these outbursts. That way, they can immediately plan follow-up observations using ground-based and space-based optical, radio and X-ray observatories. As astronomers study more of these outbursts, theyll gain a better understanding of the very energetic activities that cause them. The universe is filled with sources of GRBs, so what they learn will also tell us more about the high-energy cosmos.   Fast Facts Gamma rays are the most energetic type of radiation known. They are given off by very energetic objects and processes in the universe.  Gamma rays can also be created in the lab, and this type of radiation is used in some medical applications.Gamma-ray astronomy is done with orbiting satellites that can detect them without interference from Earths atmosphere.

Installing Perl Modules From CPAN

Installing Perl Modules From CPAN There are several ways to install Perl modules from the Comprehensive Perl Archive Network on your Unix-based system. There is always more than one way to do things with Perl, and this is no different. Before embarking on any installation, download the module, unzip it and check out the documentation. Most modules are installed using the same method. Activate the CPAN Module The simplest way to install Perl modules to use the CPAN module itself. If you are the system administrator and want to install the module systemwide, youll need to switch to your root user. To fire up the CPAN module, just get to your command line and run this: If this is the first time youve run CPAN, its going to ask you a series of questions- in most cases, the default answer is fine. Once you find yourself staring at the cpan command prompt, installing a module is as easy as install MODULE::NAME. For example, to install the HTML::Template module youd type: CPAN should take it from there, and youll wind up with the module installed in your Perl library. Installing from the Command Line Lets say youre on your system command line and you just want to install a module as quickly as possible; you can run the Perl CPAN module via command line Perl and install it in a single line: Its always advisable to download a module yourself, especially if youre having problems installing with CPAN. If youre on the command line, you can use something like wget to grab the file. Next, youll want to unzip it with something like: This unzips the module into a directory and then you can go in and poke around. Look for the README or INSTALL files. In most cases, installing a module by hand is still pretty easy, though, although not as easy as CPAN. Once youve switched into the base directory for the module, you should be able to install it by typing:

The Ineffectiveness of the Provisions of SGA in Allocating Risks Essay

The Ineffectiveness of the Provisions of SGA in Allocating Risks - Essay Example The researcher states that transportation is a challenge that affects goods in transit. In many cases, problems arise during the transportation of a bulky consignment owing to the fact that such goods are likely to change hand from one mode of transport to another. Although the act addresses the concerns of the risk bearers in the case of loss, its introduction presents a complex perspective on the form of transportation. For instance, when there is a transportation of goods, it is likely that such a container of the goods may transit through different modes of transport like ships, rails or even the use of tracks. The act fails to give appropriate guidance on risk allotment when bulky goods transit through one mode to another. The issues arising from risk allotment to the various modes of transport is so complex that any amendment of the provision will require an appropriate method that quantifies and allocate the level of involvement between the modes of transport before allotting the risks. Further, the section provides the limiting factor to the scope of the act. The provision lacks a proper directive to offering direction on goods in transit. Perhaps, the best approach would involve splitting the risks and ensuring there is a clear definition of the bearers based on the different goods forming the consignment. In doing so, it would limit the risks of deterioration by splitting these risks occasioned during transiting by allowing the seller to bear the so-called extraordinary risks associated with casualty and accidents. The same approach would apportion the so-called necessary risks of deterioration, which is common to all goods undergoing transit to the buyer.

Source Evaluation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Source Evaluation - Essay Example Convincingly, his article provides a deep analysis of this social problem and provides ground to reduce domestic violence in the society. Ganley is a PhD holder who has a wide experience in the social affairs issues and a member of the future without violence organization. He is among the great pool of social activists who have stood up in the fight against domestic violence. Ganley (16) defines domestic violence as a pattern of assaultive and coercive behaviors, including physical, sexual, psychological attacks as well as economic coercion that adults or adolescents use against their intimate partners. The author provides a strong definition of domestic violence that reveals its nature and contains some of the most ignored factors of domestic violence. Many scholars have defined gender violence as violence against women and this definition cannot fit the contemporary society where complex marriage institutions exist and both men and women can be subjects of violence. With this definition, Ganley seems to consider the family structural changes, which makes his work unique and credible. The author points out to the various forms of gender violence in the society and the way they arise. Ganley (19-21) identifies physical, sexual and psychological assault as possible forms of domestic violence. Physical violence refers to the beating or fighting while sexual violence refers to the forceful use of sex on a partner within an intimate relationship. On the other hand, psychological assault refers to the use of threats of violence in intimidating a partner, which may have an emotional effect on the person. Most scholars have ignored psychological torture as a manifestation of domestic violence and Ganley goes an extra mile to elaborate that this is another form of the domestic violence. Actually, threats of war within a

Elements of Competency for Engineers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Elements of Competency for Engineers - Essay Example Another element of competency for engineers that I want to achieve perfection in is professional and personal attributes. I realize that engineering as a professional plays a very instrumental role in the economic development of society. As such as an engineer I will be a play a role that touches on the lives of many as well as aspects of society, economy and environmental issues. As such high standards of ethics and professional conduct will be expected of me by the large society. I will, therefore, use information and engineering technologies in a manner that is beneficial to all stakeholders. I am currently working to achieve this competency by thinking creatively, innovatively and maintaining a proactive personality as an engineer. I try to carry myself in an orderly manner and effectively practice teamwork. These competencies are set in order to stimulate engineers to rise to the occasion and serve the community in a manner that is diligently ethical, professional and beneficial . As a future engineer being competent in these important skill areas will be of extremely crucial important. By appropriately and proactively applying my skills, I will be able to serve the society by addressing defined engineering problems. I will consider the consequences of my actions to clients, society and the environment and make the most appropriate decisions when executing my duties as an engineer. By upholding high standards of ethics and professionalism I will be able to place first the interest of the public.

NTT DoComo Case Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

NTT DoComo Case Analysis - Essay Example omoted, if we do decide to include eMoney payments in FeliCa phones, and whether credit card functionalities should be included, and if yes, the right business model. The major strengths and weaknesses against the various options have been evaluated. The analysis clearly points to the weight that needs to be attached to DoCoMo’s potential fist-mover advantage in offering contactless IC technology built into a mobile phone, and the fact that the key strengths of DoCoMo have been derived from innovative solutions offered in the telecommunications industry itself by DoCoMo leading to immense benefits, as exemplified by the innovative strategies employed while launching â€Å"i-mode† services back in 1999, and again in the revolutionary launch of 3G (FOMA) services in 2001. While the prime concerns are related to security in financial transactions, and the acceptability of separate readers by the merchant outlets, the proposed strategies address these concerns after careful analysis. The final recommendations strongly advocate diversification into financial services with the Mobile FeliCa offering, thus gaining first-mover advantage, a conscious strategy for striking alliances in both the eMoney space as well as the credit card space, capitalizing on the network effects. These will result in both additional revenue streams, as well as in pre-empting competition from tying up with the known leaders in the market. Thus a phased implementation plan has been recommended covering installation of Edy readers at 12,000 outlets in 6 months, immediate alliances with JR East and JCB for eMoney, and a proactive involvement in promoting a joint initiative for reader interoperability with bitWallet, JR East and JCB by end-2005. The recommendations also include DoCoMo’s own phone-based credit launch, targeted at upgrading the FOMA subscriber base, as well as non-exclusive partnerships with Visa, MasterCard and JCB. To address the security concern, it is recommended tha t DoCoMo

Gender communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Gender communication - Essay Example This essay "Gender communication" outlines the roles that genders are charged with in the society. The concept of gender is a fluid construct. This is because the environment one lives in, and generally the society determines a person’s gender. The society has come up with two distinct gender types. These include the masculine gender and the feminine gender. Masculinity and femininity have characteristics, which vary. The feminine gender is considered quiet, timid, nurturing, and fragile. On the other hand, the masculine gender is considered aggressive, strong, brave, and noisy. However, these traits vary across different societies. Although these traits are attached to the different genders, no man or woman is born with them instead, one acquires them in their own society through the process of socialization. Different communities in the world are different and have varying cultures. Therefore, the aspect of gender also varies among different communities. This therefore, make s gender to be a social or cultural construct, since it is the community, which determines it. In society, the different genders are charged with different roles, and are expected to fulfil different expectations by the society. Failure to adhere to the prescribed gender roles is regarded deviant behaviour in the society. Therefore, the psychological girls in society, who act in a masculine manner and the psychological boys acting in a feminine manner, are sanctioned for failing to act within the boundaries of their respective gender. Different communities will sanction those people crossing their gender lines in different ways. Since this is the case, the individuals who are intersexed will therefore, struggle with the issue of gender identity, since it is hard for them to determine their gender identity, considering their biological set up. As a female, in my society, I belong to the feminine gender. I am therefore, expected to act in a â€Å"feminine† manner, and not in a â€Å"masculine† manner. I realize that this social construction of gender begins early in a person’s life. When babies are born, there is already a designated type of colour for them, depending on their gender. For instance, the girls, because they are feminine, will be dressed in pink clothes, while boys, by virtue of being masculine, are dressed in blue clothes. This is because my society has made people believe that girls should wear bright colours. When I was a little girl, I remember wearing all the bright colours, including pink, yellow, red, and orange, among others. This continues to persist, as today, most men are rarely seen wearing bright colours. Men wear dark and neutral colours, while women wear all the colours, especially the bright ones (Mooney, Knox and Schacht 18). As a feminine gender, the society expects that I be a nurturing person. This also starts when a girl is in her early years. The kind of toys my parents bought me and my brothers reflect this aspect of nurturing and femininity. While my brothers and other boys were bought for machine toys, the other girls and I were brought dolls, which we assumed were our babies. Boys would get rowdy and aggressive playing with their gun toys, car toys, and other machine toys, while we the girls were busy role-playing our mums, taking care of babies and feeding them. Although this aspect begins at a tender age, it has a big impact on the latter life of the girls and boys. For instance, today, this kind of social construction of gender h as proved to be problematic as far as careers are concerned. When girls are limited to the kind of toys they should play with when young, this might lock out many opportunities for her in future. It becomes hard for them to develop other interests, apart from nurturing. Today, fields such as computing and engineering, among other technical fields, record the lowest number of females. This is probably because these women were denied the chance to play with machine toys while young, thereby, limiting their interests in life. On the other hand, the field of nursing registers the least number of males. Nursing

Human Resourcse question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Human Resourcse question - Essay Example Evaluation of training requires persistence, adherence towards industry’s best practices and compliance to follow the details. When such measures are undertaken, training will be imparted in a corrective fashion, where the objective will be to mentor rather than merely passing time. Hence the objective of training evaluation is to draw parallel with how things shall be constructed and where anomalies can be resolved in a quantifiable manner. The critique of training is established by understanding that the organizational strategy requires a proper cover towards measures and steps which shall go a long way in developing how matters will be taken care of within the business concerns. It is the responsibility of the management and management alone has to be accountable to all other departments within the realms of a business (Sims, 1998). This training should be comprehensive and must cover areas which are deemed as inappropriate today but might be taken as significant in the fut ure. Training can be evaluated by making use of different questionnaires and testimonials from people who would require training for improving their professional settings. Questions could be asked of them to solicit their replies so that training can be adjudged as being fairly significant from one context or the other (Brewster and Pickard, 1994). The need is to learn where training is making headway and how it is on the weaker side. Actions are taken to address the latter points at the earliest. The return on expected outcomes is fairly simple to estimate. If the training modules cannot bring any significant change, then there are ought to be several problems that one might find with training. However, if the training is comprehensive, then the expectations that people have of it are fulfilled. When training is being undertaken to achieve sound results, the key performance indicators or KPIs for short are realized easily. However, when the training regimes have some weaknesses or grey areas within them, then it becomes a Herculean task to resolve the difficulties which stand in the way of achieving these KPIs. If the business has invested a great amount on training alone, it must make sure that this return on its investment comes with the passage of time. A training undertaking which goes wrong would not suffice as far as investment viability issues are concerned. Hence it is always a good idea to have a very realistic figure of the return on investment as far as training within an organization is concerned (Schuler, 2004). As Bramley, 1996 suggests, the actual criteria for training evaluation should always be built upon the activities of training right from the very beginning. This would mean that the initial phase of training will be able to draw results; otherwise it would not be seen as a feasible option. Sadler – Smith et al (1999) raise another important consideration with regards to training. This research points out that training evaluation is for the larger part made use of within feedback towards individuals as well as to inform and educate the process of training and slightly lesser for the return on investment as discussed earlier. This could have a completely different scenario than what was delved upon in the above paragraphs. After all, return on investment has always been a much imperative disposition on the part of the training regi

Gender communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Gender communication - Essay Example This essay "Gender communication" outlines the roles that genders are charged with in the society. The concept of gender is a fluid construct. This is because the environment one lives in, and generally the society determines a person’s gender. The society has come up with two distinct gender types. These include the masculine gender and the feminine gender. Masculinity and femininity have characteristics, which vary. The feminine gender is considered quiet, timid, nurturing, and fragile. On the other hand, the masculine gender is considered aggressive, strong, brave, and noisy. However, these traits vary across different societies. Although these traits are attached to the different genders, no man or woman is born with them instead, one acquires them in their own society through the process of socialization. Different communities in the world are different and have varying cultures. Therefore, the aspect of gender also varies among different communities. This therefore, make s gender to be a social or cultural construct, since it is the community, which determines it. In society, the different genders are charged with different roles, and are expected to fulfil different expectations by the society. Failure to adhere to the prescribed gender roles is regarded deviant behaviour in the society. Therefore, the psychological girls in society, who act in a masculine manner and the psychological boys acting in a feminine manner, are sanctioned for failing to act within the boundaries of their respective gender. Different communities will sanction those people crossing their gender lines in different ways. Since this is the case, the individuals who are intersexed will therefore, struggle with the issue of gender identity, since it is hard for them to determine their gender identity, considering their biological set up. As a female, in my society, I belong to the feminine gender. I am therefore, expected to act in a â€Å"feminine† manner, and not in a â€Å"masculine† manner. I realize that this social construction of gender begins early in a person’s life. When babies are born, there is already a designated type of colour for them, depending on their gender. For instance, the girls, because they are feminine, will be dressed in pink clothes, while boys, by virtue of being masculine, are dressed in blue clothes. This is because my society has made people believe that girls should wear bright colours. When I was a little girl, I remember wearing all the bright colours, including pink, yellow, red, and orange, among others. This continues to persist, as today, most men are rarely seen wearing bright colours. Men wear dark and neutral colours, while women wear all the colours, especially the bright ones (Mooney, Knox and Schacht 18). As a feminine gender, the society expects that I be a nurturing person. This also starts when a girl is in her early years. The kind of toys my parents bought me and my brothers reflect this aspect of nurturing and femininity. While my brothers and other boys were bought for machine toys, the other girls and I were brought dolls, which we assumed were our babies. Boys would get rowdy and aggressive playing with their gun toys, car toys, and other machine toys, while we the girls were busy role-playing our mums, taking care of babies and feeding them. Although this aspect begins at a tender age, it has a big impact on the latter life of the girls and boys. For instance, today, this kind of social construction of gender h as proved to be problematic as far as careers are concerned. When girls are limited to the kind of toys they should play with when young, this might lock out many opportunities for her in future. It becomes hard for them to develop other interests, apart from nurturing. Today, fields such as computing and engineering, among other technical fields, record the lowest number of females. This is probably because these women were denied the chance to play with machine toys while young, thereby, limiting their interests in life. On the other hand, the field of nursing registers the least number of males. Nursing

The Bleakness and Humiliation of Our World Research Paper

The Bleakness and Humiliation of Our World - Research Paper Example Singer’s arguments in his article are that the suffering and death that are due to the lack of shelter, medical care, and food are damaging. That we ought, morally, to sacrifice anything that is of comparable moral importance when there is the power to prevent some things terrible from taking place, for instance, one might get wet in order that he or he saves a drowning a child. Singer also argues that it is the obligation of all to prevent the terrible thing. This is, in fact, to preventing people dying from starvation by trying to give food, money to famine relief than one does. The other argument is that by giving more money to famine relief that one do in normal circumstances, and then he or she is not sacrificing anything that is morally significant. The last argument Singer presents in his article is that we should give more to famine relief than we do. Therefore, the surest way to prevent lack of food and shelter without sacrificing anything that is of comparable moral importance is by giving maximally. That we ought to give maximally, or in other term, give at least much more than we currently do (Singer, 2005). The Singer’s concept of marginal utility states that one ought to give until a certain level (Marginal Utility), in which case one shall cause as much suffering to sell or the dependents as he or she would relieve by the gift. This implies that everyone obliged to give as much as possible, to at least some point of giving where one would begin to cause some serious suffering to others who depend on him or her or to oneself. Therefore, one ought to give until one become quite uncomfortable, even when one do not seem to encounter starving. Singer also proposes some ideas of duty and charity change in the world. He says duty is a duty in itself while charity is beyond the call of duty. He reiterates duty as wrong not to do it while, in charity, he reiterates that it is expedient to do it. However, it is not wrong to refrain from doing it. In addition, duty is doing the morally required while charity is doing what is charitable. He then reiterates that duty is refraining from murder and charity is giving to famine relief to the extent that one is sacrificing something morally significant. Therefore, according to Singer, one has to revise the way of thinking. That giving to famine relief should be thought of in terms of duty, as a wrong when one does not do it as morally required (Singer, 2005). Morality may be an object or its state of affair that can be invalid or wicked, an event that can be wrong or right, or it can be an agent that can be either blameworthy or praiseworthy. In the article, Singer suggests the agent that is praiseworthy because of giving to charity but not blameworthy because of not giving to charity is wrong. He stands out that the agent that does not provide to charity should be blameworthy, in which case Singer establishes charity as a duty. In his arguments, Singer is well direct, and henc e, we should be offering help to all those who are physically near to us. This is because of the close proximity. The only flaw that is there in many people is because they do not get the motivation to help someone that is far away, even though the person needs a lot of assistance. This, in essence, demonstrates that there are suffering and challenges in the world. (Singer, 2005, p.633). Singer also

Socrates Stand on Democracy Essay Example for Free

Socrates Stand on Democracy Essay Having emphasized upon me the advantages of democracy, I have always believed that it is the best system to implement in a country. Ignoring the flaws and weaknesses of this type of system, I thought that the benefits outweigh all costs. I assume that giving the power to the people is better than having one person rule the state. However, in Plato’s account on the life of his mentor Socrates, we are able to see both sides of the spectrum: the pros and cons of democracy which are accounted in Plato’s dialogues, the Apology and the Crito. Socrates, having been accused of impiety, is brought to trial in front of the jury of Athens. In his defense, he points out the flaws of a democratic system, but he has an underlying intention to improve it. Thus, despite his criticisms on the use of rhetoric, involvement in politics, and the opinions of the majority, Socrates generally takes a pro-democracy approach on his purpose of being in Athens, the importance of examining truth and life, and the significance of respecting the law. Socrates is known in Athens for his dialectic approach of questioning and examining the ideas of the people. He has unintentionally annoyed many Athenian citizens which has made him infamous. This has led other people, such as Meletus, to press charges against him. In his defense, Socrates sets himself apart from others who bring their family and friends as a kind of an appeal to the jurymen. Through tears and emotional plea, they beg to be acquitted. However, Socrates does not intend to present such acts as he places greater significance to his, the jury’s, and the city’s reputations. He considers it shameful to try to win approval through emotional appeal rather than the truth as it brings dishonor to the city (37). Socrates points out then that it is the role of a juryman not to acquit someone who seems favorable, but â€Å"to judge according to Reusi 2 law†¦ [which] he has sworn to do† (37). It is the jury’s responsibility to give verdict based on truth and logic. Through the oath that they have taken, the jurymen have pledged to accept this duty; therefore, to favor someone is against the law. Socrates criticizes how the public has taken advantage of the use of rhetoric to win arguments in any way possible; such as appealing to emotions which has dominated and influenced the community and its decisions. These statements highlight the nti-democratic notion of Socrates; he reproaches the majority of the citizens who have based their judgments on faulty premises. Moreover, he connotes that it is more important to listen to the persuasive arguments of â€Å"the one† that uses truth and logic, rather than the pathetic acts of â€Å"the many†. However, beneath the criticisms, Socrates tries to enlighten the members of the jury, who have a stake at public decisions, of their purposes as jurymen of the state. He reminds them of their sworn duties, and encourages them not to give in to emotional appeal, as this per se is an attack to democracy and to the law that makes the city. Additionally, Socrates explains to the jury why despite his continuous efforts to meddle on personal matters, he has never pursued on occupying political positions. This, he says, is due to the â€Å"spiritual† (34) voice that speaks to him only when he is about to do something he is not supposed to do. He believes that if he had taken part in politics, he would not have survived through the years, because he would debate against the authority or the public, and stop the unlawful actions in the state (34). Socrates upholds that â€Å"a man who really fights for justice must lead a private, not a public, life if he is to survive for even a short time† (34). He points out that in order to live a just and peaceful life, it is better for a man to stay away from â€Å"public† activities where unlawful events usually take place. It is more important to live a â€Å"private† life, â€Å"fight[ing] for justice† at its core by dealing in â€Å"private affairs† (34). Reusi 3 Socrates is considered as taking an anti-democratic stand when he has chosen not to get involved with the government, considering that the government is the people. Yet, he implies that the people would not favor anyone that opposes injustice which seems to be the common dealings in politics. He believes that he would â€Å"have died long ago† (34), although this is not his ultimate concern. What he truly cares about is â€Å"not to do anything unjust or impious† (32). Despite his criticisms on politics, Socrates is essentially reminding the people, especially those in authority, to serve a just and virtuous life. Outwardly stating the current situation of the government, he aims to provide the people a portrait of the shallow kind of democracy that they have come to maintain. Socrates seeks to prompt the majority to uphold the true sense of democracy, of fighting for justice and living life accordingly. Furthermore, Socrates uses his dialectical approach with his friend Crito in examining the contrast between the knowledge of â€Å"the one† and the pseudo-knowledge of â€Å"the many†. He uses an analogy of a man involved in physical activities, whom must listen to the advice of the true expert in his training, rather than the opinions thrown by other people who barely know anything about these activities. Anyone who places a higher regard to the thoughts of the majority, rather than to the knowledge of the one who possess it, puts himself on greater â€Å"harm† (47). Socrates adds that if we disobey the one who seeks to improve us, â€Å"we shall harm and corrupt that part of ourselves that is improved by just actions and destroyed by unjust actions† (48). This is antidemocratic in a way that it explicitly denotes the greater relevance of â€Å"the one† as opposed to the false opinions of â€Å"the many†. Democracy is based upon the judgment of the majority; however, if they collectively agree on faulty decisions, it brings destruction to the state and corruption to its citizens. As Socrates puts it, â€Å"we should not then think so much of what the majority will say about us, but what he will say who understands justice and injustice, the one, that is, and the truth Reusi 4 itself† (48). Despite his arguments, he suggests that the majority learns to listen to the one who possess true wisdom, so as to strengthen the grounds of democracy. The united opinions of the many can be given greater significance when it is based on the wisdom of the one who seeks â€Å"to improve† the city. In spite of the anti-democracy view of Socrates regarding rhetoric, politics, and the majority, he presents a pro-democratic stand on his true purpose of being in Athens. He addresses the jury that it would be a mistake to condemn him since he has been brought to the city of Athens according to the god’s will. He compares himself to a â€Å"gadfly† that tries to wake the â€Å"great and noble horse† that has become inactive and lazy (33). This, Socrates believes, is his purpose for being placed in the city by the god. He â€Å"never [ceases] to rouse each and every one† of the citizens, to convince and to criticize them all the time (33). In this passage, Socrates shows how much he cares for the city as he, a â€Å"gadfly†, tries to motivate the â€Å"noble† city of Athens to reach its full potential. By this, Socrates expresses a pro-democratic attitude as he believes that by his consistent approach to its citizens, he hopes to keep the city active, knowing that it has many capabilities that have not been fully developed. Moreover, Socrates states that he will continue to follow the god rather than the demands of the public for him to cease his quest of constant dialectic. He adds that with every Athenian he meets, Socrates would cross-examine him. He would denote that by being a citizen of the â€Å"noblest† city with high regards for both â€Å"wisdom and power†, it is a shameful thing to put such high importance on material possessions and status while disregarding â€Å"wisdom or truth, or the best possible state of [the] soul† (32). He would reprimand those who were proven to value superficial things instead of the more important ones. Socrates maintains that â€Å"the unexamined life is not worth living for men† (39). He motivates the citizens to examine the truth and virtue Reusi 5 as he affirms that â€Å"the most important thing is not life, but the good life† (48). This is very prodemocratic in a sense that the city aims to accomplish this highest form of living, which can be achieved only if each citizen is able to reflect upon himself, and realize his own way of living. He stresses the importance of not indulging oneself with material desires, but focusing only on the â€Å"best possible state of [the] soul† (32). Once every citizen is able to live a life worthy of the â€Å"noble† city of Athens can the city fully establish a strong democracy that highlights â€Å"wisdom†, justice, and â€Å"truth† (32). Lastly, in Crito’s attempt to persuade Socrates to escape the city and his death, Socrates has emphasized the significance of respecting the law. He imagines being faced by the law, ordering him that he must either convince his city according to what is just, or submit himself in any given circumstance in accord to the position assigned to him by his country (51). Therefore, it is wicked to bring harm to one’s own country even â€Å"after being wronged not by†¦ the law, but by men† (54). Socrates is sentenced to death because of the decision of the majority, but not of the law. He uses the law to represent the entire city, for the law makes and embodies the ideals of the state. His notion is pro-democratic as he expresses his respect for the decrees that ultimately establishes the democratic system of Athens. Despite being persecuted by men, he still considers the law as just and equitable. When we divert from the true purpose of a system, the costs are as significant as the benefits. Plato’s account of Socrates enables us to have a two-way view on democracy in considering both its advantages and disadvantages. Underlying his criticisms to certain aspects of this system is Socrates’ greater pursuit to improve and develop the state.

Human Resources Planning at Tata Consultancy Services Limited

Human Resources Planning at Tata Consultancy Services Limited About the Company: Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS). Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS): is a software services consulting company, one of the largest provider of information technology and business process outsourcing services in Asia. Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) is a flagship subsidiary of one of Indias largest and oldest conglomerate company, the Tata Group, which has interests in areas such as energy, telecommunications, financial services, manufacturing, chemicals, engineering, materials, government and healthcare. 2.1 Analysis of business factors in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The major factors that are taken into account while planning the human resource planning are: -Schedule of available resources -Skills of available resources Some of the minor factors: -Personality conflicts among the employees -Attendance History of the employees -Team player -willingness to work on given project Additional major factors: -Production forecasting -economic conditions which may cause the company to lay-off or cut-back, or increase their workforce. Issues in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The compensation management practices of Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) have taken as the major issues here. Their compensation management system was based on the Economic Value Added (EVA) model. By implementing this model in to the business, the salary of employees comprised of two parts of fixed and variable. The fixed salary will reach employees without any delay, but the variable part of the salary was arrived only after considering business unit EVA, Corporate EVA and also individual performance EVA. Based on this calculation, the employees can earn their salary. In the last quarter of the financial year 2007-2008, Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) has announced that it is in the critical situation, so as it has planned to slash 1.5% of the variable component of employees salaries since its EVA targets were not met by the third quarter of the financial year. This announcement is not only for Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) employees but also to the entire Indian IT industry. 2.2 Assessment of Human Resource Requirements in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The Company viewed their employees as their assets, so they have more concentrated on the efficient utilization of those assets. Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) had drawn criticism for its compensation structure. In view of the employees, the salaries were not on a par with industry standards. It has started to loss its employees as not in the situation to follow the Employee Stock Options (ESOP), which is being followed by its competitors. ESOP is one of the emerging tools to retain the employees with the Tata Consultancy Services Limited for a long time. In this situation, the management was collapsed with the current policies, and it tends to modify the strategies as per their norms in order to meet employees requirements as well as the targets setted by the company. To overcome the problem occurred, it is suggested by the Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) senior management to constantly keep the employees track of the vast intellectual assets, their skill sets, the status of projects on which they were working. Then, they have started to assess the required number of people available to be placed in the other new projects. 2.3 Developing human resource plan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The human resource plan can include the assigned skill sets of the resources for a project and the degree in which they will be used. The plan should incorporate with the resources, the time and degree of usage, task or areas of applied resources. The following model relies on gap analysis and which links the human resource planning to overall business planning. Workforce Analysis in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) It is the process of analyzing and understanding the workforce and planning for projected shortages and surpluses in specific occupations and skill sets. In Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS), workforce analysis should be made based on their projects. So that only they can realize the needs to assess the further requirements or improvements what is to be made to the current plan. Internal Scan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) What are the factors which affecting the Tata Consultancy Services Limited internally, that is to be identified. Then the required steps can be taken to create a solution and to enhance the HR capacity in order to meeting the Tata Consultancy Services Limitedal goals. The internal factors may be as: work environment, quality of work life, relationship with their peers/subordinates, etc., In Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS), internal factor which affecting HR capacity might be their compensation structure. Definitely, it will lead to create a problem while attaining the goals. So that, the grievances must be monitored by the management and also they should take preventive measures. External Scan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) External scan means all environmental factors in which affecting the workforce capacity, HR priorities and emerging issues. Gap Analysis in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) After scanning the external factors, gap analysis can be made. It may consider the current and future HR needs. Priority Setting and Work Plan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) Based on Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS)s priorities, environmental scan, and HR performance related data: major human resource priorities, strategies to achieve the desired outcome. Monitoring, Evaluating and Reporting in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The human resource plan ends up with monitoring and evaluating the workforce capacity and then reporting the results of the performance to measure performance, set targets, and finally the results can be integrated together to make decisions and to determine the future priorities. 2.3 Evaluation of Human Resource Plan in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) The above developed human resource plan can be implemented by Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) to overcome the above said problem. There are few things that apply to most human resources planning functions, and are important in making the process effective, or even to make it part of creating a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Human resource planning needs to be linked with the larger business planning or strategic planning process. It is not an end up process. The function is mean to support and enable the company to attain its business goals, so as such it needs to be linked to and driven by those business or strategic goals. HR planning is lead by the HR department and it should remember the whole process is to serve stakeholders and customers of the HR department. It cant be effective without an understanding of the company or Tata Consultancy Services Limited, its managers and employees, its mission and issues, etc and the environment in which it works. 3.1 Purpose of HRM policies in Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) Human Resource Management policies are the tool for communicating a companys basic management philosophies, commitment to fair employment practices and equal opportunity, and the expectations of employees. HR Manuals are primarily used to provide HR personnel with a systematic approach for handling human resources related activities to ensure company policies are enforced. It is designed to define policies and procedures that support basic management philosophies, outline company rules and requirements, clarify the companys expectations of its employees, and describe lines of authority and levels of responsibility. The HR manual provides a means for formalized, systematic documentation and communication of those policies and practices established by the company. HR policies ensure that everyone in the Company/Tata Consultancy Services Limited is treated fairly and consistently and that their contributions to the success of the Company are appropriately recognized and rewarded. All employees shall be fully aware of what the Company expects of them and what they, in return, should expect from the Company. HR Policies summarize the Companys responsibility to individuals and their responsibility to the Company. 3.2 Impact of Regulatory Requirements on HR Policies Every country has its own regulations, laws and regulatory bodies or agencies governing the manufacturing, sales, marketing and distribution of products within the country. Also, every employee of the Company shall, in his business conduct, comply with all applicable laws and regulations, both in letter and in spirit, in all the territories in which he operates. The impact of regulations on policies of firms especially those who are technology-based limits the venture capital funding for these firms and affect what they can or intend to do and eventually limiting their capabilities to employ new hands thereby affecting the socio-economic fibre of the society.

Civil War Aspects :: essays research papers

At 4:30 AM the Confederates opened fire with 50 cannons upon Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina. The Civil War began. With seven states already seceded from the Union, the confederate states took a strong stance. Just as the Confederacy was formed in early 1861, the Confederate soldiers began taking over. On April 19th, President Lincoln issued a Proclamation of Blockade against Southern ports. For the duration of the war, the blockade limited the ability of the South to stay well supplied in its war against the North. Through the majority of the beginning of the war, Lincoln noted the war as a struggle for maintaining in the world, that form, and substance of government, whose leading object is, to elevate the condition of men. The Pro slavery South was, in many ways reacting to the North's attack on the slavery and its expansion. Slavery is an institution that must continue to grow for its survival. Moreover, expansion for the South meant growth, politically, socially and economically, and it meant more political power. It is anticipation to want to make what one has larger and stronger, just as the South wanted to expand and gain power. The Southern politicians did this through political moves such as the Annexation of Texas, "Bleeding Kansas", the Ostend Manifesto, and through the Dred Scott decision. All of which pissed of the North, and convinced them that the south was trying to dominate the U.S with slavery. I believe that the war was fought over the moral issue of slavery. The North did not care about the institution of slavery as long as it stayed in the South. South Carolina seceded, because Lincoln was voted into office. The Republican party threatened the South's expansionism and therefore Southerners felt that they had no other choice but to secede. The Republican party had no intention of ending slavery in the South or freeing the slaves; they just did not want slavery to expand, "Because the scene of intestine struggle will thus be transferred from the south to the North." (N.Y Tribune 11/29/1860) The United States was divided into three groups by the time the Civil War began: those who believed in the complete abolition of slavery, those who were against the expansion of slavery, and those who were pro slavery. Many like to believe that the moral aspect of slavery is what made it an issue. When the Republican candidate, Abraham Lincoln, was elected in 1860, the South felt that its expansionism was being threatened, and because expansion was vital to the

Enduring Pak-China Relations Essay

During Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani’s visit to China, there have been speculations that he undertook this ‘emergency’ trip in the aftermath of Osama bin Laden’s killing in Abbottabad by US forces. Nothing could be further from the truth. During the visit, the Chinese leadership assured Pakistan of their full support in its hour of need. Prime Minister Wen Jiabao informed Pakistan that China had urged the US to respect Pakistan’s sovereignty. In addition to agreements on banking, technical and economic cooperation, China agreed to expedite the delivery of 50 J-17F Thunder fighter jets to Pakistan. This has provoked some American Congressmen to interpret it as Pakistan’s leaning on China to countervail pressure from Washington. Contrary to speculations, this visit was not prompted by the Abbottabad incident. It was planned much before and was part of the ongoing Pak-China strategic relations. Also, 2011 marks the 60th anniversary of the Pak-China relationship and has been designated as the year of friendship between the two countries, which was reflected in the celebrations and extraordinarily warm welcome extended to Pakistan’s prime minister in China. Therefore, to suggest that the visit was organised on the spur of the moment is misleading. Pakistan and China have a longstanding relationship, especially since 1962, when China and India went to war over a disputed border. The Chinese have been steadfast friends and have supported Pakistan through thick and thin. China’s interest lies in a stable and prosperous Pakistan. They have been very generous in sharing their development and progress in the economic and technical fields and have aided Pakistan in every possible manner. Therefore, the visit of Prime Minister Gilani should not be considered as reactive. Pakistan is a sovereign country (despite challenges) and has the right to choose its friends and explore options for positive relationships other than the US. Pakistan is not bound to have a one-track relationship with the world through the US. The US raid in Abbottabad created a perception that Pakistan’s air force is weak and compromised, prompting India to remark that it could carry out similar attacks on jihadi outfits in Pakistan. Like a true friend, the Chinese have agreed to speed up the production and delivery of 50 JF-17 Thunder aircraft for Pakistan. This has not only sent a clear signal to the world that China stands by Pakistan but will actually strengthen our air defense against any such misadventure. Gwadar port: China has a keen interest that Pakistan’s vision to become a trade and energy corridor, which links Central Asia, Russia and China with the warm waters of the Arabian Sea should become a reality. If the Gwadar Port develops and is linked with rail and road infrastructure, China’s interests will also be served. Compared to shipping from the eastern seaports, trade through Pakistan will tremendously ease trade for China. China wants to develop its relatively undeveloped interior western regions. The best way to achieve this is to provide an outlet for the region through Gwadar. The Chinese have agreed to take over the operation of Gwadar Port after the contract with the Singapore Port Authority expires in anticipation of this dream becoming a reality. China has stakes in a developed and prosperous Pakistan and is ready to help it grow. Is Pakistan ready to avail this opportunity and develop the capacity to take advantage of Chinese generosity? SECOND EDITORIAL: Attack on US Consulate staff Another day, another attack. An improvised explosive device (IED) struck two bulletproof Land Cruisers of the US Consulate staff in Peshawar on Friday, injuring 11 people and killing one passerby. Two consulate personnel suffered minor injuries in this first attack on US diplomats after the operation that killed Osama bin Laden. This comes in a sequence of similar attacks that have been taking place throughout the country since al Qaeda’s leader was killed, including against Saudi personnel in their Karachi consulate. It is feared that this is just the beginning as the extremists might be getting warmed up to fulfil their pledge of revenge against Pakistan, the US and other countries that had a part to play in bin Laden’s death. Other NATO countries too are on the terrorists’ hit list. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for the Peshawar attack and have declared it retribution for bin Laden’s death at the hands of US Navy SEALs. When such a red alert situation exists in the country, it is shameful that adequate security measures are still lacking to prevent such attacks from taking place. Just as Osama was a high value target for the US, likewise, US, European, Saudi and even Pakistani citizens are high-value targets for the militants. To have foreign and our own citizens under threat on our shores and to be woefully unequipped to protect them is pathetic, to say the least. It is almost as if the security forces in Pakistan are too de-motivated in the face of a murky, bloodthirsty enemy. The area where this latest attack took place, University Town, is considered to be one of the more posh residential locations in Peshawar. It is a community where foreigners usually live. For a militant onslaught to take place there shows that even the most well-off of places is unsafe, what to say of the rest of the country. The security and law enforcement agencies have to get their act together. Our intelligence establishment cannot afford to fall asleep (again?) in the wake of the bin Laden episode and our police and security forces need better methods of detection and prevention. Arrangements must be made to better police the streets and allow citizens, whether international or local, to move about without incurring the risk of being blown to bits. * Home | Editorial

Range Rover Sport vs. Jeep Cherokee Srt8

I absolutely love Jeep and Land Rovers. I like the SUV type vehicles that are built for luxury. I believe that a Range Rover Sport is better than a Jeep Cherokee SRT8. Both SUV’s are practical. They seat five for extraordinary fast car-pooling. They also have lots of cargo space for groceries, or anything else. The Cherokee SRT8 has a 6. 1-liter hemi. Jeep design motif was to stuff a huge engine into an unsuspecting vehicle. The engine makes 420 horsepower and 420 pounds-foot torques. The Cherokee is powerful enough to get from zero to sixty miles per hour in 4. seconds. The Jeep takes 136 ft. to stop from zero to sixty.The Range Rover Sport is a super 4. 2 liter Range Rover with a supercharge. The Sport can go from zero to sixty in 6. 82 seconds, just two seconds shy of the Cherokee. The supercharge in the engine makes 320 horsepower and 410 pound-foot torque. In the break test, the Range Rover stops from zero to sixty in just 117 ft. smoothly. The sport beats the Jeep in of roading. Range Rover Sport offers five different modes for of roading.The Range Rover Sport is a bit more expensive than the Jeep Cherokee SRT8. In my opinion, the Jeep is really good with its power and torque. The Ranger Rover Sport has a better ride than the SRT8. The ride is smoother and even better at off roading with five different off roading modes. I was fortunate enough to actually drive both SUV’s. I prefer the Range Rover Sport than the Cherokee SRT8. The Sport offers a ride like no other car or SUV I have driven. The ride is so smooth; it is like riding on air.

Sir Mohammed Iqbal Biography Essay

Sir Mohammed Iqbal was born at Sialkot, India (now in Pakistan), on 9th November, 1877 of a pious family of small merchants and was educated at Government College, Lahore. He is commonly referred to as Allama Iqbal (Ø ¹Ã™â€žÃ˜ §Ã™â€¦Ã›  Ø §Ã™â€šÃ˜ ¨Ã˜ §Ã™â€žÃ¢â‚¬Å½, Allama meaning â€Å"Scholar†). In Europe from 1905 to 1908, he earned his degree in philosophy from the University of Cambridge, qualified as a barrister in London, and received a doctorate from the University of Munich. His thesis, The Development of Metaphysics in Persia, revealed some aspects of Islamic mysticism formerly unknown in Europ On his return from Europe, he gained his livelihood by the practice of law, but his fame came from his Persian- and Urdu-language poetry, which was written in the classical style for public recitation. Through poetic symposia and in a milieu in which memorizing verse was customary, his poetry became widely known, even among the illiterate. Almost all the cultured Indian and Pakistani Muslims of his and later generations have had the habit of quoting Iqbal. Before he visited Europe, his poetry affirmed Indian nationalism, as in Naya shawala (â€Å"The New Altar†), but time away from India caused him to shift his perspective. He came to criticize nationalism for a twofold reason: in Europe it had led to destructive racism and imperialism, and in India it was not founded on an adequate degree of common purpose. In a speech delivered at Aligarh in 1910, under the title â€Å"Islam as a Social and Political Ideal,† he indicated the new Pan-Islamic direction of his hopes. The recurrent themes of Iqbal’s poetry are a memory of the vanished glories of Islam, a complaint about its present decadence, and a call to unity and reform. Reform can be achieved by strengthening the individual through three successive stages: obedience to the law of Islam, self-control, and acceptance of the idea that everyone is potentially a vicegerent of God (na`ib, or mu`min). Furthermore, the life of action is to be preferred to ascetic resignation. Three significant poems from this period, Shikwah (â€Å"The Complaint†), Jawab-e shikwah (â€Å"The Answer to the Complaint†), and Khizr-e rah (â€Å"Khizr, the Guide†), were published later in 1924 in the Urdu collection Bang-e dara (â€Å"The Call of the Bell†). In those works Iqbal gave intense expression to the anguish of Muslim powerlessness. Khizr (Arabic: Khidr), the Qur`anic  prophet who asks the most difficult questions, is pictured bringing from God the baffling problems of the early 20th century. Notoriety came in 1915 with the publication of his long Persian poem Asrar-e khudi (The Secrets of the Self). He wrote in Persian because he sought to address his appeal to the entire Muslim world. In this work he presents a theory of the self that is a strong condemnation of the self-negating quietism (i.e., the belief that perfection and spiritual peace are attained by passive absorption in contemplation of God and divine things) of classical Islamic mysticism; his criticism shocked many and excited controversy. Iqbal and his admirers steadily maintained that creative self-affirmation is a fundamental Muslim virtue; his critics said he imposed themes from the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche on Islam. The dialectical quality of his thinking was expressed by the next long Persian poem, Rumuz-e bikhudi (1918; The Mysteries of Selflessness). Written as a counterpoint to the individualism preached in the Asrar-ekhudi, this poem called for self-surrender. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. . Lo, like a candle wrestling with the night †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. . O’er my own self I pour my flooding tears †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ I spent my self, that there might be more light, †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. .. More loveliness, more joy for other men. The Muslim community, as Iqbal conceived it, ought effectively to teach and to encourage generous service to the ideals of brotherhood and justice. The mystery of selflessness was the hidden strength of Islam. Ultimately, the only satisfactory mode of active self-realization was the sacrifice of the self in the service of causes greater than the self. The paradigm was the life of the Prophet Muhammad and the devoted service of the first believers. The second poem completes Iqbal’s conception of the final destiny of the self. Later, he published three more Persian volumes. Payam-e Mashriq (1923; â€Å"Message of the East†), written in response to J.W. von Goethe’s West-à ¶stlicher Divan (1819; â€Å"Divan of West and East†), affirmed the universal validity of Islam. In 1927 Zabur-e ‘Ajam (â€Å"Persian Psalms†)  appeared, about which A.J. Arberry, its translator into English, wrote: â€Å"Iqbal displayed here an altogether extraordinary tal ent for the most delicate and delightful of all Persian styles, the ghazal,† or love poem. Javid-nameh (1932; â€Å"The Song of Eternity†) is considered Iqbal’s masterpiece. Its theme, reminiscent of Dante’s Divine Comedy, is the ascent of the poet, guided by the great 13th-century Persian mystic Jalal ad-Din ar-Rumi, through all the realms of thought and experience to the final encounter. Iqbal’s later publications of poetry in Urdu were Bal-e Jibril (1935; â€Å"Gabriel’s Wing†), Zarb-e kalim (1937; â€Å"The Blow of Moses†), and the posthumous Armaghan-e Hijaz (1938; â€Å"Gift of the Hejaz†), which contained verses in both Urdu and Persian. He is considered the greatest poet in Urdu of the 20th century. Upon his return to India in 1908, Iqbal took up assistant professorship at the Government College in Lahore, but for financial reasons he relinquished it within a year to practice law. During this period, Iqbal’s personal life was in turmoil. He divorced Karim Bibi in 1916, but provided financial support to her and their children for the rest of his life. While maintaining his legal practice, Iqbal began concentrating on spiritual and religious subjects, and publishing poetry and literary works. He became active in the Anjuman-e-Himayat-e-Islam, a congress of Muslim intellectuals, writers and poets as well as politicians, and in 1919 became the general secretary of the organisation. Iqbal’s thoughts in his work primarily focused on the spiritual direction and development of human society, centred around experiences from his travel and stay in Western Europe and the Middle East. He was profoundly influenced by Western philosophers such as Friedrich Nietzsche, Henri Bergson and Goethe, and soon became a strong critic of Western society’s separation of religion from state and what he perceived as its obsession with materialist pursuits. The poetry and philosophy of Mawlana Rumi bore the deepest influence on Iqbal’s mind. Deeply grounded in religion since childhood, Iqbal would begin intensely concentrating on the study of Islam, the culture and history of Islamic civilization and its political future, and embrace Rumi as â€Å"his  guide.† Iqbal would feature Rumi in the role of a guide in many of his poems, and his works focused on reminding his readers of the past glories of Islamic civilization, and delivering a message of a pure, spiritual focus on Islam as a source for socio-political liberation and greatness. Iqbal denounced political divisions within and amongst Muslim nations, and frequently alluded to and spoke in terms of the global Muslim community, or the Ummah. Iqbal’s first work published in Urdu, the Bang-e-Dara (The Call of the Marching Bell) of 1924, was a collection of poetry written by him in three distinct phases of his life.[4] The poems he wrote up to 1905, the year Iqbal left for England imbibe patriotism and imagery of landscape, and includes the Tarana-e-Hind (The Song of India), popularly known as Saare Jahan Se Achcha and another poem Tarana-e-Milli (Anthem of the (Muslim) Community), which was composed in the same metre and rhyme scheme as Saare Jahan Se Achcha. The second set of poems date from between 1905 and 1908 when Iqbal studied in Europe and dwell upon the nature of European society, which he emphasized had lost spiritual and religious values. This inspired Iqbal to write poems on the historical and cultural heritage of Islamic culture and Muslim people, not from an Indian but a global perspective. Iqbal urges the global community of Muslims, addressed as the Ummah to define personal, social and political existence by the values and teachings of Islam. Poems such as Tulu’i Islam (Dawn of Islam) and Khizr-e-Rah (The Guided Path) are especially acclaimed. Iqbal preferred to work mainly in Persian for a predominant period of his career, but after 1930, his works were mainly in Urdu. The works of this period were often specifically directed at the Muslim masses of India, with an even stronger emphasis on Islam, and Muslim spiritual and political reawakening. Published in 1935, the Bal-e-Jibril (Wings of Gabriel) is considered by many critics as the finest of Iqbal’s Urdu poetry, and was inspired by his visit to Spain, where he visited the monuments and legacy of the kingdom of the Moors. It consists of ghazals, poems, quatrains, epigrams and carries a strong sense religious passion.[4] The Pas Cheh Bayed Kard ai Aqwam-e-Sharq (What are we to do, O Nations of the East?) includes the poem Musafir (Traveller). Again, Iqbal depicts Rumi as a character and an exposition of the mysteries of Islamic laws and Sufi perceptions is given. Iqbal laments the dissension and disunity among the Indian Muslims as well as Muslim nations. Musafir is an account of one of Iqbal’s journeys to Afghanistan, in which the Pashtun people are counseled to learn the â€Å"secret of Islam† and to â€Å"build up the self† within themselves.[4] Iqbal’s final work was the Armughan-e-Hijaz (The Gift of Hijaz), published posthumously in 1938. The first part contains quatrains in Persian, and the second part contains some poems and epigrams in Urdu. The Persian quatrains convey the impression as though the poet is travelling through the Hijaz in his imagination. Profundity of ideas and intensity of passion are the salient features of these short poems. The Urdu portion of the book contains some categorical criticism of the intellectual movements and social and political revolutions of the modern age. While dividing his time between law and poetry, Iqbal had remained active in the Muslim League. He supported Indian involvement in World War I, as well as the Khilafat movement and remained in close touch with Muslim political leaders such as Maulana Mohammad Ali and Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He was a critic of the mainstream Indian National Congress, which he regarded as dominated by Hindus and was disappointed with the League when during the 1920s, it was absorbed in factional divides between the pro-British group led by Sir Muhammad Shafi and the centrist group led by Jinnah. In November 1926, with the encouragement of friends and supporters, Iqbal contested for a seat in the Punjab Legislative Assembly from the Muslim district of Lahore, and defeated his opponent by a margin of 3,177 votes. He supported the constitutional proposals presented by Jinnah with the aim of guaranteeing Muslim political rights and influence in a coalition with the Congress, and worked with the Aga Khan and other Muslim leaders to mend the factional divisions and achieve unity in the Muslim League. His philosophical position was articulated in The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam (1934), a volume based on six lectures delivered at Madras,  Hyderabad, and Aligarh in 1928-29. He argued that a rightly focused man should unceasingly generate vitality through interaction with the purposes of the living God. The Prophet Muhammad had returned from his unitary experience of God to let loose on the earth a new type of manhood and a cultural world characterized by the abolition of priesthood and hereditary kingship and by an emphasis on the study of history and nature. The Muslim community in the present age ought, through the exercise of ijtihad–the principle of legal advancement–to devise new social and political institutions. He also advocated a theory of ijma’–consensus. Iqbal tended to be progressive in adumbrating general principles of change but conservative in initiating actual change. During the time that he was delivering these lectures , Iqbal began working with the Muslim League. At the annual session of the league at Allahabad, in 1930, he gave the presidential address, in which he made a famous statement that the Muslims of northwestern India should demand status as a separate state. After a long period of ill health, Iqbal died in April 1938 and was buried in front of the great Badshahi Mosque in Lahore. Two years later, the Muslim League voted for the idea of Pakistan. That the poet had influenced the making of that decision, which became a reality in 1947, is undisputed. He has been acclaimed as the father of Pakistan, and every year Iqbal Day is celebrated by Pakistanis. Aspects of his thought are explored in K.G. Saiyidain, Iqbal’s Educational Philosophy, 6th ed. rev. (1965), a standard analysis of the relevance of Iqbal’s ideas about education written by a distinguished Indian educationist; Annemarie Schimmel, Gabriel’s Wing, 2nd ed. (1989), a thorough analysis of Iqbal’s religious symbolism, including a comprehensive bibliography in English; Syed Abdul Vahid, Iqbal: His Art and Thought, new ed. (1959), a standard introduction; Hafeez Malik (ed.), Iqbal, Poet-Philosopher of Pakistan (1971), representative Pakistani views; and S.M .H. Burney (S.M.H. Barni), Iqbal, Poet-Patriot of India (1987), focusing on nationalism and secularism in his poetry.