Tragic Flaw

and The Flaw By Phanit Asavanamaung 10B Stories are told in many styles, through different medias; all which are to entertain or educate its audience. Christopher Booker, the author of the book ‘The Seven Basic Plots', introduces the idea of the seven basics categories of any story told. The seven basic archetypes are Over Coming the Monster, Rags to Riches, The Quest, Voyage and Return, Comedy, Rebirth and Tragedy. Tragedy as one of the seven archetypes, are found in any type of stories; from the most recent published novel to the almost forgotten ancient myths of the earth.Tragedy is mostly used to describe when there is a death in the story, but which the term ‘tragedy’ can also be used to describe when the character has fallen into a lower state. It is better defined when there is a downfall of the main character in the story. In all the stories which are categorized under tragedy, has one thing in common. It is that those characters have a tragic flaw; that in fluences the character to their downfall. The tragic flaw for each character is different. It is influenced by many factors, such as family and the environment they are exposed to.These influences lead to the death of the eternal love of Romeo and Juliet, or even the life of a school girl, Alaska; in Looking for Alaska. The tragic flaw of a character is influenced by many factors, leading to the character’s downfall. The tragic flaw could be observed when there is a decision to be made, and the wrong choice is taken. The decision took, is influenced by the characters experience and also the condition that they are in. The experience of the character is from their past, about their families and their environment. This could result a tragic flaw to the character by making a scar to the character mentally.If the character was poorly treated in their childhood, or have experienced a traumatic event; this could cause a flaw in the character. At times, when the condition of the cha racter is at its worst, the tragic flaw will influence the character’s decision, and which will eventually lead to the downfall of themselves. There are many type of tragic flaws and which a character may develop more than one flaw. By having more flaws, the character will be likely to be influenced by more events, which will make the character to become more vulnerable, in the tragic state.These flaws could be found since the early myth of Jason, on a quest to find the Golden Fleece, which it also ended up in tragedy. The flaws that are most common are from being treated badly as a child or from being blinded with love. Romeo and Juliet, the famous story of the two ‘star crossed lovers’ of the rivalry between the two families, ending up in tragedy. The reason behind the downfall of the couple is not from the conflict between their families, but it is actually their flaw. According to Chrisxbales papers, it describes the relationship of the two as, ‘are not in love, but in lust’.There are many flaws between the two characters, combination of immaturity and stubbornness. It could be observed that the two characters rushes into things, such as the first encounter of the two. Romeo says,  Ã¢â‚¬Å"If I profane with my unworthiest hand / This holy shrine, the gentle sin is this: / My lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand / To smooth that rough touch with a tender kiss. † (1. 5. 92-95) The statement shows proof of how at first encounter, Romeo decides to ask Juliet for a kiss, even without knowing each other. This is an evidence of immaturity.Also the two, decides to ignore the advice given from Friar Lawrence, and which they have ended up paying the ultimate price. They also ignore the most obvious of which their relationship is not going to be well, with their family conflict. The main flaw of the Romeo and Juliet is that they are both blinded with love, making them stubborn and immature. The series of events were influen ced by the flaw of the two characters, making them ending up in tragedy. Not only could that tragic flaw be observed in classic stories, but also in modern literature.An example of modern literature would be, Looking for Alaska by John Green. The story is about the life of Miles Halter after he moved to the Culver Creek School. He then narrates of the experience of being with his friends, telling the tragic ending of Alaska Young. Alaska Young was no ordinary school girl, she is the girl who pulls out pranks on everyone and which does all the bad things she is able to do. Once while the group of friends were off smoking, Alaska has stated that,† You guys smoke because it’s fun, but I smoke to die. † This introduces the first flaw of the character.She does not love or care about herself, therefore she will make choices which are bad for herself. Later on, it was then told that Alaska Young has a sad past. In her childhood, she has experienced the death of her mothe r, and which she was blamed by her father of killing her mother. That has created a scar in Alaska, and which she kept on blaming herself on everything that went wrong and that she was failing everyone. She was then found, dead in a car crash attempting to suicide; blaming herself on forgetting her mother’s anniversary.These were the tragic flaw of the character and which it all started by being mistreated in her childhood. The flaw has taken over the character and influenced her daily act. By not being conscious about what is the best choice for the people around and themselves, they would end up with a problem. By not solving the problem properly, other problem will appear. This will continue, until it has reached its worst such as death or the right decision is made. In conclusion, tragedy always ends up with the downfall of the character, which is caused by their tragic flaw.It could be seen through the examples of Romeo and Juliet, and the downfall of Alaska, in Looking for Alaska, that it all started from people around them. Families and friends are most influential on what they will grow up to be like. It is where their future and their fate are decided. By being mistreated or taught to behave badly towards others, it can cause a flaw. The flaw will be hidden in the person, until the time when the person is at a traumatic or panicking state.Each person has a different flaw, and which they may result on developing more than one flaw. As explained, these flaws will influence each person to make a wrong choice. As once stated by Mahatma Ghandi, â€Å"Nobody can hurt me without my permission. † Referring that no one can hurt you, unless you hurt yourself. The quote supports the flaw of the character that it is their own fault that lead to their downfall. In order to reduce the risks of the impact of the flaw of each person, it is important that they are conscious about the decision they are making.This could make the person to be able to think and choose the better choice for themselves and the people around them. Works Cited Green, John. Looking for Alaska: A Novel. New York: Dutton Children's, 2005. Print. â€Å"Quotes About Hurt. † (337 Quotes). N. p. , n. d. Web. 02 Mar. 2013. ;http://www. goodreads. com/quotes/tag/hurt;. â€Å"Romeo and Juliet's Tragic Flaws. † Romeo and Juliet S Tragic Flaws. N. p. , n. d. Web. 02 Mar. 2013. ;

Human factors Essay

Introduction The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)’s invention of Research to practice (R2P) was a totally a new initiative, it is served with the purpose of transferring and translating the institute’s research findings, its technologies and information by using highly effective practices of prevention and most common and available products which can are easily adopted in the workplace. Its research is aimed at using the necessary methods of prevention to reduce work-related musculosketal disorders (WMSDs). The initiative encourages management commitment, the anticipation of workers, it also trains them the necessary safety practices procedures and these helps them to identify, evaluate and control risk factors that relate to WMSDs (American Meat Institute and Ergo Tech, 1990). The main objective of the initiative is to reduce illness and injury is achieved by ensuring there is effective use of its research findings at workplaces (ANSI, 1996). In ensuring that their findings are achieved effectively they work closely with other partners like center for disease control (CDC), this facilitates its product development, translating its research findings into practice, target its dissemination efforts, and in evaluating practice effectiveness (ANSI, 1986), and this is clearly demonstrated by their efforts which have improved workplace health and safety in many organizations (American Meat Institute and Ergo Tech, 1990). Their research initiative is accomplished by making use of the following techniques: (a) Prioritizing: – their researches are aimed at addressing the most important and pertinent issues occupational, safety, health and injuries. (b) Partnering: since it realizes that it cannot achieve its targets alone, it carries out its research and works closely with both international and domestic partners to encourage work place practices adoption and use of research findings. (c) Targeting: – Its research findings are channeled into information products, in different presentation reports which is tailored mainly towards meeting the targeted audience. (d) Translation: – It ensures that their research findings are transferred and translated by using appropriate tools of presentation by making use of latest technology, and all the necessary information that will ensure adoption of required prevention practices and procedures. (e) Dissemination: It uses the latest communication science in guiding the movement of its research into the workplace. (f) Evaluation: It builds data collection into each program to determine its effectiveness in preventing work place injury and illness (ANSI, 1996). In order to ensure that the above initiative objectives are met, they make use of a variety of control methods of intervention to contain workplace hazards, their methods include ergonomic hazards. The control methods are: (a) It builds strategies aimed at reducing the potential conditions for hazards by making use of engineering controls. (b) By making use of administrative controls to ensure easy transition of workplaces practices, and the general management policies. (c) they encourage the use of any necessary personal equipment Conclusion NIOSH’s practices and activities highlight hazards and prevention strategies from diverse settings of work places. Their materials of practice are flexible and can be used either as a stand-alone curriculum or they get it incorporated into the already safety programs in practice (Astrand, & Rodahl, 1986). Their practice even includes a dedicated curriculum aimed at reducing occupational injuries and illness in young people. In helping teens, its activities have been extensively involved in pilot-testing by making use of high school teachers, job trainers and work coordinators all over the country to teach the youth, the basic occupational safety and health (Astrand, & Rodahl,1986). There is need for inclusion of behavioral issues in their research as relates to corporate social responsibility, this will help greatly in office ethics. References American Meat Institute and Ergo Tech, Inc. (1990). Setting up an ergonomics program: meat industry. Arlington, VA: American Meat Institute. ANSI, (1986). American national standard: guide for the measurement and evaluation of human exposure to vibration transmitted to the hand. New York, NY: American National Standards Institute, S3. 34 1986. ANSI, (1996). American national standard: control of work-related cumulative trauma disorders. Part I: upper extremities. New York, NY: American National Standards Institute, Z-365-1996. Unpublished draft. Astrand, P. and Rodahl K. (1986). Textbook of work physiology. New York, NY: McGraw Hill.

HSBC Culture Essay

It is necessary to underline that organizational culture plays crucial role for employees’ motivation, job commitment, productivity, and overall working atmosphere. Therefore, HSBC culture promotes believes of honesty, teamwork, and integrity. HSBC culture is based on the following principles and values: highest personal standards of integrity, truth and fair dealing, quality and competence, minimum bureaucracy, quick decision-making, group interest ahead the personal ones, sustainable development and many others. For example, from the very start of the recruitment process HSBC leadership claims that right values are the most important criterion along with excellent leadership skills and good grades. Moreover, HSBC is open to provide changes and innovations. HSBC tends to seek new approach to dealing with routines and problems, and constructive feedback is highly appreciated and encouraged. (Hargett 2007) Moreover, HSBC provides flexible working patterns, disability care and care for elderly, as well as in-house employee assistance. Therefore, employees have an opportunity to solve health and divorce problems. HSBC culture is rewarding, vibrant, stimulating, and tends to prevent arrogance and coldness in banking sphere. HSBC culture promotes professional development and training. For example, professional trainers will provides staff with necessary interpersonal skills, problem-solving and decision-making techniques, personal grooming, time and planning management, etc. From the beginning of working process all employees have free access to on-line course and professional literature. HSBC offers variety. In other words, there are many things to discover and many people to learn from. HSBC has diverse personnel. (Wig 2007) HSBC culture strongly emphasizes the role of collective management and teamwork stating that these principles are the core of future success. Nevertheless, each team member is responsible for particular tasks. The working atmosphere is friendly – people are ready to help each other. Moreover, many employees are real critical and creative thinkers – they are open to new ideas. For example, HSBC consider critical thinking the vital component of decision-making process and business as a whole. Critical thinking gives experts and employees an opportunity to develop new fresh solutions to problems. It gives the possibility to enjoy analyzing data and information and then to develop opinions and conclusions. One more positive moment is that HSBC encourages striking the right balance meaning that people have enough time for social life. The Head of HSBC Human Resources states: â€Å"The day I stop smiling coming to and going from work is the day I know I have to stop working†. (Where to Work 2002) HSBC culture is driven by understanding traditions, needs of individuals, job commitments, etc. Furthermore, the company tries to be committed to all individual needs. It is necessary to outline that women comprise large component of company’s market and the company is trying to make service available and affordable for every community. Company’s success and achievements are seen worldwide. HSBC tends to understand better local people and to provide employees with right information to offer necessary services and to reinforce brand. HSBC developed unique way f tailoring services – it can â€Å"offer an enhanced level of service than other local practitioners operating in multicultural countries and this facet, therefore, offers significant competitor advantage†, as one of the HSBC leaders says. (Wig 2007) HSBC culture is also based on the principles of gender diversity and no discriminated I observed in this filed. HSBC finds it impossible to leave women out of the equation. HSBC tries to achieve gender split 50/50, and it is a good sign of pleasant culture. According to corporate culture, women are encouraged actively to be promoted from the first managerial rung of the ladder to the next steps. HSBC developed â€Å"Women’s Development Program† to attract women to enhanced roles. Bank organization is more balanced and more adaptable to new situations. For example, HSBC proclaims cultural diversity stating that respect for every individual will promote loyalty and tolerance in employees. (Where to Work 2002) The next moment to admit is that HSBC culture is defined as confident rather than brash. Bank organization isn’t organization which tends to shout from the rooftops. The main principles of corporate culture are modesty, honesty, openness, kindness, and knowledge. The next principle is multicultural staff. For example, in London, the board managers and managers of all layers are representatives of different races and ethnical backgrounds. HSBC positions itself as the world’s local bank. HSBC tend to find the best practices and make personnel acquainted with them. HSBC culture is described by collective management and teamwork rather than individual work. Collective management is presented at all levels of bank organization. It is possible to say that thousands of bank offices are, actually, one office. No other organization can say that their workers in London are chatting with partners in New York discussing ways of handling procedures. (Wig 2007) Finally, HSBC culture represents a strong set of values and believes. It promotes the overall sense of responsibility, provides recommendations how to act in everyday life and how make everyday decision. HSBC tends to assist employees both at work and in personal life. Further, HSBC supports straightforwardness and honesty in relations with customers. HSBC fulfills all responsibilities to customers, colleagues, shareholders, wider operational communities, and shareholders. Moreover, HSBC has a long-standing commitment to education that goes back well over a hundred years. It is known that organization supports educational projects and has deep commitment to the environment. (Hargett 2007) References A Better Environment For Business. Available from [Accessed 13 November 2007] Hargett, J. (2007). HSBC Holdings to Join in Financial Write-Down Parade. Available from [Accessed 13 November 2007] HSBC Bank. (2002). Available from [Accessed 13 November 2007] Where to Work. (2002). Available from [Accessed 13 November 2007] Wig, S. (2007). HSBC Careers. Available from http://hsbc.com.sg/sg/career/mdp/testim_swati.htm

The Human Resource Frame Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Human Resource Frame Paper - Essay Example In the case of a more complex situation such as an instructor working in multiple countries (Europe), where various laws may apply, a team may be assembled temporarily to solve the problem. This team would then disband when the issue has been resolved. Berlitz is applying the international management strategy - think globally, work locally. Interpersonal dynamics can hold numerous complexities because of the vast differences in not only personalities of the employees, but, in the case of Berlitz, in cultures. As discussed in McShane & Von Glinow (2005) if a person has worked with individuals from other countries or has been expatriated, that person knows how different the values, decision-making, behavior, and relations with one another can be. Individualism versus collectivism is mentioned in cross-cultural studies, along with power distance, uncertainty avoidance, and achievement nurturing. Berlitz shows on their Internet site, tips for each of the cultures the applicant is conside ring or new employees will be entering. This information is designed to ease the transition and ensure there is a good fit for the employee, the student, and the school when there are differences in background and/or culture. Since 2000 the company has expanded primarily through the use of the franchise concept, leaving the corporate offices to be the support arm for the core operations (Berlitz International, Inc., 2001). McShane & Von Glinow (2005) discuss the concepts of centralization versus decentralization, which have to do with company size and decision-making. Berlitz is a decentralized structure, which leads to the boss and subordinate interfaces being handled primarily at the language learning center rather than through corporate. Learning centers vary in size and staff makeup. Some centers are owner/operators while others are quite large with specialized areas found to be departmentalized such as children’s language programs, train the trainer departments, accounti ng, and sales. In the case of the language center this report is following, the boss subordinate interfaces could be intermittent, since the District Manager may handle the role for the Language Center Director. Employees may look to their peers or those employees with longer length of service for guidance on an informal basis. This is not a bad thing as long as that guidance coincides with what the District Manager and the Sales Manager may have in mind for the growth of the center. Since organizations and people need one another, the language center may have allowed informal interactions to replace formal interactions when it helps the organization and the employee (Bolman & Deal, 2008). The general philosophy for managing people is: â€Å"Berlitz is a member of the Benesse Holding Group, a leading Japanese provider of products and services for language/global leadership training, education and lifestyle. Berlitz’s management philosophy is based on five principles: Total c ustomer orientation; Open and active participation; A spirit of innovation and challenge; A superior business structure; Strategically oriented planning† (Berlitz Language, Inc., Management Team, 2011). From a Bolman & Deal (2008) human resource frame, this statement provides employees with a foundation of how management and the organization will serve them. Continuing with the employee value proposition: â€Å"

How far was St. Augustines mission a key turning point in the Coursework

How far was St. Augustines mission a key turning point in the conversion of Britain 550-700 - Coursework Example This mission was referred to as the Gregorian mission. This mission led by Augustine marked the turning point for the Anglo Saxons pagans; the mission spread to the regions spontaneously and later merged with the Celtic mission.1 The activities that preceded the arrival of St Augustine to Kent changed the history of the regions. With the Kent kingdom being powerful at the time, the conversion of the King ushered in immense success for the kingdom of Kent. St. Augustine Mission Background In 410, the province of Britannia was left by the Roman legions; this left the people of the Britannia to defend themselves from the attacks led by the Saxons. The Britannia was already converted to Christianity before they left. After the Legions withdrawal, non Christians settled on the island’s southern parts. The inhabitants of the western part of Britain which was beyond the Anglo Saxon’s rule remained Christian dominated. These were Celtic Christians who developed slowly in comple te isolation from Rome. The calculation of Easter and the style of the haircut of the Celtic clerics were different from that of the church in Rome. 1Bede, translated by Leo Sherley-Price, A History of the English Church and People, Penguin Classics, New York, 1988. Evidence of Christianity survival in Eastern Britain during the time exists. However, evidence on the issue of the conversion of native Christians to Anglo Saxons is unavailable. The Saxons invaded the province and destroyed the remnants of the Roman civilisation, economic and religious structures. It was during the era of King Ethelberht who married Bertha, a Christian princess; this was under the condition that she will be allowed to remain Christian that the St. Augustine mission. Before the year 588 Pope Gregory the first decided to send the Gregorian Mission to convert Anglo Saxons to Christianity. Augustine arrived on the Isle of Thanet and entered the Ethelberht’s main town of Canterbury. With the influence of his Christian wife the king was converted to Christianity. The conversion of the King prompted him to give the missionaries freedom to preach the word freely; in addition he gave them land which resulted to founding of a monastery. Augustine was ordained as bishop and many of the Kings subjects were converted, it was during the same year of 597 in the Christmas Day that mass baptism was held, thousand of the people in Kent were baptised. The baptism of the king and his 2000 servants marked the turning point of the medieval history because the church gained grounds to penetrate the region. The mission of Augustine Augustine was at that time, accompanied or escorted by Laurence of Canterbury and a group of 40 companions who comprised of monks. On landing in Kent the mission had great initial success. The success was marked by the conversion of Ethelberht. During the early medieval period, religious conversion was more successful with the conversion of the ruler. The subjects could then easily emulate the ruler. This hierarchical approach was liked by many people. Bede Portrays Augustine as aggressive and conformist. Augustine triggered the conversion of the Anglo Saxons, he is portrayed as conformist due to believe he held which he had about the Roman Church, these believes were affirmed by Wilfred in the Whitby Synod. The region of Kent played key role in the conversion of Britain in the period dating 550-700 due to number of reasons. Kent was by the then the reigning regime in the south eastern

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

Paper 3 - Essay Example This argument attracted substantial opposing replies. One of the most significant responses argued that if at all the world is poorly designed then it also means that it presupposes the designer. Further counterargument gives a more emphatic reply by stating that maybe there are possibilities that the design of the world has not yet sufficiently been realized in its full perfection, but not based on arguments that it is not perfect. As such, these are just some of the contributing tenets arousing arguments with respect to traditional and natural dialogues on religion that in turn impact on the philosophy of reason, beliefs and morals. However, even from the counterarguments, further theoretical explanations seem to question the reliability of the design of the world. This is for instance significantly represented by Darwin’s theory of evolution. Although Darwin’s theory indirectly describes the design of the world because it only centers on creation of life through natural selection, it has triggered continued conflict between science and religion (Solomon, Clancy & Higgins, 2012). In particular, the church views Darwin’s theory as a factor undermining the credibility of the church because it seems to contradict the church teachings about God as the sole creator of the world. However, if one looks at it from a different perspective from Genesis, the creation was spread across several days, meaning that the idea of natural selection might still hold. Morals, religions, and evil as the three traditional forms of proof for God’s existence have also additionally attracted arguments. Counterarguments suggest that for one to believe in morals, religion and evil; it has to start from the belief in God. Furthermore, these arguments also maintain that the three does not adequately provide actual proofs for God’s existence. Emanuel Kant, for instance, as one of the earliest philosophers that offered counterarguments on religion and morals

Marketing management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Marketing management - Essay Example Today, the customer has to be made aware of the product or service to attract them. Therefore, there is a need to develop a marketing plan and re-launch Plaza. Suitable Marketing Communication Strategy: Just preparing a marketing plan will not ensure effectiveness of the plan unless a strong marketing communication plan is developed. Reaching out customers and making them aware of the services being offered is very essential therefore, it will be recommended to Barry that he should not underestimate the suitable and supporting marketing communication plan. The most visible part of any marketing mix variable is marketing communication and any communication plan should be set in consideration to overall marketing strategy and should be based on target audience (OUP Website). Focus on SMART Objectives: In order to be successful, Barry needs to set marketing objectives and business objectives and the objectives should be SMART. For example, if Barry decides to target a customer segment and develops marketing communication plan accordingly, he should also consider that the targeted customer segment is big enough to achieve the set level of sales. Conduct Environmental Scanning: It is also recommended to Barry that he should conduct external environmental analysis especially the PESTLE analysis to understand the environment. To develop a SWOT, it is very important for Barry to conduct environmental analysis. For example, Barry should evaluate legal factors (such as Health and Safety Regulations), social trends, economic conditions, interference of governmental agencies in the region, access to technology and environmental sustainability. Conduct Competitors’ Analysis: It is also recommended to Barry that he should not overlook his competitors if any. Cinema is one of the most entertainment sports for the people and the new movies can always attract people to cinemas. If audience of Plaza is very low then Barry needs to

Metaphysics and Mysticism Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Metaphysics and Mysticism - Term Paper Example Various sections would analyze both the positions and stances. All relevant detailed philosophies and theories would also be considered. The main stance of the paper is a defense of the mysticism argument, not a critic of it. Analysis of the Controversial Views regarding Correlation between Metaphysics and Mysticism Every man and woman that has the desire to understand and know beyond the accepted limitations of physical reality is attracted to the unknown, and by this attraction, be pushed to learn what many do not and wish not. Everything that exists, whether inanimate or not, is connected with an energy binding all things together; to understand this, is to understand the basic principles of Metaphysics. Metaphysics encircles everything that we can perceive through our five senses. Metaphysical belief pushes beyond what is taught in the church or in the Bible, even. It allows one to go outside and sit with the rest of everything that has been created without the hands of man, that is still pure, and be able to feel what it's like to be the grass and the soil. Metaphysics is a way of life to many, and it is taught without teachers. These pages will contain a very brief introduction and explanation of metaphysics and several of its branches of ideas and philosophies. Some scholars believe that Aristotle's "Metaphysics" is only the follow-up or sequel to his extremely well renowned "Physics"; Meaning that Aristotle did not pioneer the spirituality that is now an important part in today's Metaphysics. "All men by nature, desire to know. An indication of this is the delight in our senses; for even apart from their usefulness, they are loved for themselves; and above all others, the sense of sight (Aristotle, 1977)." The first line of Aristotle's "Metaphysics" immediately shows his recognition that the typical five senses perceived by every capable human, are used only in the idea that they are the only way to perceive. Aristotle also states that "All men desire t o know." (Aristotle, 1977), allowing the argument that his thoughts were going toward that of which we cannot know from the five senses that we are born aware of. The argument as to Aristotle's beliefs in the subject can go either way because of an extremely important factor. So one may interpret Aristotle's work as one wishes, it was still his ideas that laid down the essential framework to get the Metaphysical idea moving. Discussion In order for anybody to be able to understand the following ideas and theories, one should take time to put themselves in an open-minded and relaxed state. Once you have entered this state, you will be able to comprehend and understand to the fullest of your capabilities. Relaxation is the ultimate medium for learning, and by being in control of your stress, you can be relaxed whenever you feel the need to, allowing quicker learning and easier understanding. Now things are going to get a little complicated and may begin to get confusing. First of all, there are three divisions of the mind; the conscious, subconscious, and superconscious. (Furse, 1977) These three divisions of the mind control the way we perceive and interact with others, ourselves, and our environment in general. We use these states of consciousness, sometimes entirely unaware of it, for different purposes

Reserach Report and Problem Analysis Report Essay

Reserach Report and Problem Analysis Report - Essay Example The audit led to a loss of a lot of money for Mrs. Roadway because she did not have any paperwork like a VAT invoice from the supplier to substantiate that she had paid VAT. The legal representatives for the Jeffersons Company maintain that she does not have the right to ask for a VAT invoice but they were willing to give her their VAT number. The reason given to Mrs. Roadway by the legal representatives for not providing a VAT invoice (i.e. no other customer has ever requested for a VAT invoice) is not sufficient enough to deny her the invoice. For Mrs. Roadway’s business proposal to be financially viable, she has to be able to reclaim this VAT from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) because the repayment will reduce her borrowings to a manageable level. However, without a valid VAT invoice from Jeffersons, reclaiming the VAT might become problematic. As a corollary this research report will cover the issues of whether a supplier is required to issue an invoice, when it should be issued and what it must contain. CONCLUSION: Value Added Tax (VAT) can be defined as a category of consumer tax charged for any manufactured consumer product. A VAT invoice is usually dispensed to purchasers who give substantial statistics and details to prove that they have an intention to claim back the VAT paid to the government. In order to acquire a VAT invoice there are a set of some very precise pre-details which must appear on the VAT invoice such as the name, address and VAT number of the company or enterprise that provided the merchandises. For continuous and excellent book-keeping, accurate VAT calculations and invoices are required (Ebrill, et al 2001)1 Mrs. Roadway has already made strides to hire a Private Wealth team which has handled her application to HMRC so that she can charge VAT on the leases and reclaim the VAT that she will pay to Jeffersons. As a result, she has the right to request a VAT invoice from Jeffersons solicitors so that she can have the right paper work to help her with the process of reclaiming the VAT. Mrs. Roadway had to needed a VAT invoice from Jeffersons’ solicitors because she had previously gone through problematic experience which was brought about by lack of a VAT invoice. The fact that Jeffersons’ solicitors has never issued a VAT invoice to any of their consumers, will help Mrs. Roadway and build up her case against Jeffersons’ solicitors. The pre-requisites put in place to guide the process of dispatching an invoice for purchases as denoted in Article 33 of the VAT Directive2 might make the process of acquiring a VAT invoice frustrating but it is considered important for regulation purposes. In Mrs. Roadways case, the guidelines denoted in the VAT Directive will help Mrs. Roadway show that she deserves to be issued with a VAT invoice from Jeffersons’ solicitors because as per the VAT Directive a potential beneficiary of VAT refund should be issued with a VAT invoice. REPORT: Primary Sou rce: Staatssecretaris van Financien v Stadeco BV, 2009: A primary ruling in relation to the explanation of art21 (1) (c) of the 6th Council Directive was offered. The ruling was that a VAT invoice should be issued to a potential beneficiary of VAT refund. This was in line with Article 33 of the VAT Directive. HMRC concisely states that a registered VAT member has an obligation to provide any VAT-registered clients with a VAT invoice

Helping Behaviour And Human Rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Helping Behaviour And Human Rights - Essay Example In a study of social science students, they were reported to have strong "just world" beliefs, and that these values were directly impacting on their motivations to help elderly persons with socio-economic and health care needs (Maclean & Chown, 1988). A cross-cultural study using British and Canadian participants, it was found that they tended to dismiss the needs and expectations of elderly clients as a ay to better service the greater need of the community. The proposed study aims to provide a qualitative perspective of helping professional attitudes among undergraduate psychology students in the UK. Using a focus group, the primary investigator aims to extend current understandings of the beliefs, values and attitudes of helping profession students who will be interacting with the elderly in their future careers. Eight undergraduate psychology students from the University of will be recruited using snowball sampling (i.e., by word of mouth). The sample will be stratified across gender and ethnicity to reflect the diversity present in the wider population of psychology students. Informed consent will be obtained to enable participation. No incentives will be given for participation. A tape recorder, with spare batteries and notepaper and pens will be required by the prima

Level 3 Childcare Education Essay Example for Free

Level 3 Childcare Education Essay Describe the initiatives which influence the provision of challenging environments for children (5 marks) There are different types of international, national and local initiatives which influence the provision of challenging environments for children. An example of an initiative is the Forest Schools. ‘A Forest School is an innovative educational approach to outdoor play and learning’ http://www. forestschools. om/what-happens-at-a-forest-school/ Forest schools can influence the provision of a challenging environment, as the teachers can take the children in small groups every week to the local woods to have a better understanding of the outdoor environment and it’s linked to the curriculum. By doing this it enables children to be able to be in a safe environment when exploring and having adventures so they can see what things they can do when they go into the woods next time. It can also help children with problems such as language problems as this allows them to speak about the experience they are having which can then be taken to the classroom and then it could be turned into a story to help the child. When going into the woods it helps to cater the behaviour for the problem children and it also teaches children when they can and can’t mess around. It also focuses on the fundamental aspect of the Forest School innovation educational approach. The Forest School provides ways for meeting learning objectives while developing practical life skills and encouraging child-initiated learning, which is observed and assessed. Lots of young children prefer to be outside than in the classroom environment because they can find it more exciting and they might pay more attention. Word Count- 240

Speech motivating people Essay Example for Free

Speech motivating people Essay You never know what you have until its gone.In this modern contemporary society, we are flooded with images of success, money and power, but have you actually delved deeper into societys faà §ade and what it means to be alive? As a psychologist, I have encountered numerous individuals with diverse dilemmas, each one unique in their own way, but many have one thing in common, they take life for granted. Human beings have a curious capacity to take things for granted. The most exquisite diamond loses its lustre with familiarity. The most compatible intimate becomes boring. Miracles like the daily sunrise fail to astonish because theyre commonplace! Repetition and time dull our sense of wonder. We endow novelty with powers and attributes that it does not really possess. When a thing becomes familiar to us, the mystery we have projected onto it is lost. We see it without the overlay of our imaginings. The irony in this idiosyncrasy of human character is that we are disappointed by the very things that used to excite us. The most profound patient that has ever crossed my path was a young girl suffering from spinocerebellar degeneration, a terrible disease where the cerebellum of the brain gradually deteriorates to the point where the victim cannot walk, speak, write, or eat. This girl was around 17 and was smoothly voyaging through year 11 when she was diagnosed with the disease. Enrolled in a top selective high school with a bright prospect ahead, the heart wrenching news brought tears to her eyes for the many sessions we had together, it pained my heart to see her journey suddenly cut short. The question she asked me why me, why do I have to die early? left me at a crossroad, paths lay before me as I tried to pick which response was the most paramount to cheer her up. Looking deeply at her beautiful face streamed with tears, my heart shattered, I asked her Why do we have life? Why do we get to have this experience at all? We werent promised any deal. We arent owed this opportunity to create experiences. No one was under any obligation to deliver us any particular deal in this realm. And yet we are here. A wide open opportunity to wake up and do something completely different every day. Every day, every moment  even, an opportunity to create something in our life. This is the same question I pose to you today. She faced a greater obstacle than us, but she stood firm and persevered, writing in her diary to remember her experiences until she could no longer hold a pen. She managed to face her cruel fate with a positive outlook, and tried her best to do whatever she could by herself. A while back, my father passed away from cancer, it wasnt like we werent expecting it, its one of those things you know is inevitable, but you dont really believe it will ever happen. Parents are a constant part of our life, a part so constant and so close that we often take them for granted. The reality is that they can disappear so incredibly fast. People we love can be here one day and gone forever the next. Our days on this earth are numbered, and its something we often forget. If there are things in your life that you want to change, or things that you want to do, dont wait. Are you living the way you want to be remembered? I had put off simply picking up the phone and calling my dad to tell him how much I loved him, and now Ill never have a chance to again. If I could travel back in time, I would in a heartbeat to bridge the gap between our relationships. People desire so many things and waste their days in vain. Some yearn for gold, others for power, yet others for glory and a higher position. But when deaths moment nears and they look back at their lives theyve lived, they realise theyve been happy only during those moments when theyve loved. Our lives are but a fleeting moment in time. They come and go so quickly. Live each day of your life to the fullest, as it its all going to end tomorrow. You have to live for what you have, live for now, grasp every second that you can. Appreciate and love everything there is. Cherish every breath you take, every smile you share, and every tear that falls. These are the moments that pass without a single thought. My journey has been full of poignant experiences, but it isnt through the destination that we discover the important lessons in life, but through the  highway that we travel on, the obstacles we encounter that forces us to come face to face with reality. Thats when we learn that our most imperative messages. You never know what you have until its gone. I never fully realized just how deep the meaning of that sentence really was, until I have experienced it, and it was too late. A final quote which I would like to impart to you was by Abraham Lincoln, In the end, its not the years in your life that count. But its the life in your years.Bibliography:Jone Johnson Lewis 1995, site I used to find the quotes. Ichi Rittoru no Namida (one litre of tears), video recording sparked the idea of the speech and used the basic plot. Robert McChesney 2004, The Problem of the Media, Monthly Review Press gave me some ideas of what the media projects onto contemporary society.

Collective Memory in Homiletics

Collective Memory in Homiletics Chapter Six Theological markers for the use of collective memory in homiletics 6.1 The Bible and remembering. The debate about memory in contemporary theological disciplines has yet to reach the level of intensity evident within history and sociology and their associated applied studies, but there is nevertheless evidence of a growing interest in the topic. Scholars well known for their work on social approaches to memory are increasingly cited by theologians, or are themselves offering ways into a theological extension of their works. In biblical studies, for example, the American Sociologist, Barry Schartz, presented a keynote address at the Annual Meeting of the Society of Biblical Literature in 2003 (published in Kirk and Thatcher, 2005); and from this side of the Atlantic, Jan Assmanns work on cultural memory provides a way into mnemonic devices in a ground-breaking study of Marks Gospel from the perspective of the performative oral culture in which it arose (Horsley, Draper and Foley, 2006). Such publications are the beginnings of what is likely to become a major area of interest and d ebate in theology and biblical studies. As exciting as that prospect is, this chapter concerns itself with one small and closely delineated area where social memory theory and theology in practice are, it is argued, closely related, namely collective memory and preaching. If, as it is being argued in this thesis, the practice of Christian preaching in contemporary European society must consciously address the mechanisms of collective memory and the issues raised by the decay of that memory, what are the theological resources available to support that task? This chapter seeks to answer that question within a theological discourse that views use of the Bible as the primary step in such ongoing resourcing. Just as Christian preaching in order to be Christian preaching cannot be seen in isolation from the biblical text, so this chapter will argue that a theological understanding of Christian tradition as memory cannot be isolated from an understanding of social memory work present in those same biblical texts. Consequently, this chapter seeks to establish that memory and remembrance, understood as fundamental components of a life-creating faith, are evidenced in the biblical texts themselves. It will be argued that our forebears in the continuing traditio n of Abrahams faith were conscious users of the social dimensions of memory. Establishing this point is key to the whole thesis, since it indicates that the homiletic theory advocated here is more than a knee-jerk response to the social amnesia indentified as being so destructive of Christian social memory. In straightforward terms, memory work will be established as a core component of Scripture and, therefore, a core component of preaching that seeks to use those same Scriptures for the remembering of Christ. That theological resourcing of the tasks of Christian collective memory will be established through an examination of some key concepts developed in the work of the Old Testament scholar Walter Brueggemann. Brueggemanns work is a good place to begin because he writes as a Christian preacher as well as a biblical scholar. The fact that he has also addressed memory issues very directly in his recent work adds a third justification for the focus of the analysis that follows. After the examination of some of Brueggemanns ideas, consideration will be given to the mechanisms of collective memory with particular regard to issues of boundary and development, and how these things are evidenced in Scripture. From New Testament evidence the focus will shift to worship and God as the ultimate referent of Christian memory. 6.2 Imagination as interpretative tool in the works of Walter Brueggemann. The American Old Testament scholar Walter Brueggemann delivered the 1988-9 Lyman Beecher Lectures on Preaching with the title Finally Comes the Poet: Daring Speech for Proclamation. The somewhat enigmatic quality of the title is typical of Brueggemanns style, and his published papers have included many similar aphorisms (for example At Risk with the Text, An Imaginative Or, The Shrill Voice of the Wounded Party, all in The Word Militant: Preaching a Decentering Word (2007); and Together in the Spirit–Beyond Seductive Quarrels, Reading as Wounded and as Haunted, and Texts That Linger, Not Yet Overcome in Deep Memory, Exuberant Hope: Contested Truth in a Post-Christian World (2000)) but arguably this particular title signifies more than presentational style. Finally Comes the Poet is Brueggemanns echo of a line from a poem entitled Passage to India in the Walt Whitman collection Leaves of Grass (1871): After the seas are all crossd, (as they seem already crossd,) After the great captains and engineers have accomplishd their work, After the noble inventors, after the scientists, the chemist, the geologist, ethnologist, Finally shall come the poet worthy that name, The true son of God shall come singing his songs. The poem has its origin in reflections on the grand technological achievements of Whitmans era, exemplified in the Suez canal and the American transcontinental railway. Its reference to great and new achievements as but a growth out of the past indeed fits well with Brueggemanns insistence that the old texts of Scripture when imaginatively interpreted are productive of new ways of seeing and living in the present (2000: 6): but there is, perhaps, a more playful and a yet more profound echo at work than simple topical reiteration. Whitman began Leaves of Grass as a conscious response to Ralph Waldo Emersons call in 1845 for the United States to have its own indigenous and unique poetry. The poems, despite being full of traditional biblical cadences, were to prove controversial since they used an innovative verse form with frequent colloquial language and some of them exalted the body and sexual love. Whitman worked on the volume throughout his life; the first edition of 1855 contained just 12 poems, but that grew to nearer 300 by the so-called deathbed edition of 1891-2. In other words, Whitmans work represents an ongoing creative enterprise that in its imaginative expansion and re-working sought to offer a new perspective on experience in an authentically American idiom of English. In that sense the poet comes last, as it were, to take imagination to shores far beyond those to be reached by rail or sea. As the poem concludes: For we are bound where mariner has not yet dare to go, And we will risk the ship, ourselves and all. O my brave soul! O farther farther sail! O daring joy, but safe! are they not all the seas of God? O farther, farther, farther sail! Imagination that goes beyond the immediately obvious; creativity that constructs alternative ways of giving an account of reality and interpretive language that profoundly resonates with the contemporary are themes that figure prominently in Brueggemanns work. In his Introduction to the Old Testament: The Canon and Christian Imagination, he writes: The tradition that became Scripture is not merely descriptive of a commonsense world; it dares, by artistic sensibility and risk-taking rhetoric, to posit, characterize, and vouch for a world beyond the common sense. (2003a: 9) This interpretive imagination that enables ancient texts to speak with forceful authority to the contemporary believer is at the heart of Brueggemanns hermeneutic. His conviction is that engagement with the biblical texts can be creative of real alternatives to the prevailing and destructive dominant worldviews. His insistence on not what the text meant but what it means (2007: 83) presents a striking challenge to biblical methodologies that dwell on historical understandings of the text. In Brueggemanns work, both historical and redactive analysis are but steps towards this more fundamentally purposeful interpretation. His work is, therefore, of particular importance to this study since it so clearly demonstrates ways in which the biblical text can be interpreted anew so as to offer a fresh and challenging voice amidst the clamour of contemporary society. It is hardly surprising then that Whitmans poetic fresh voice provides Brueggemann with the teasing frontispiece to his lectures on preaching as a poetic construal of an alternative world (1989: 6). Nor is it surprising that in the years since his Lyman Beecher lectures, beyond his major studies (for example, First and Second Samuel (1990); Theology of the Old Testament: Testimony, Dispute, Advocacy (1997); and Deuteronomy (2001)) Brueggemann has written extensively about the preaching task (for example, in works such as Cadences of Home: Preaching among Exiles (1997); Deep Memory, Exuberant Hope: Contested Truth in a Post-Christian World (2000); The Word Militant: Preaching a Decentering Word (2007)). His is an approach to Scripture that is essentially homiletical since, whilst remaining academically rigorous, it always looks to how the text resonates with contemporary existence. Indeed, Brueggemann asserts that the key hermeneutical event in contemporary interpretation is the event of preaching (2007: 92). 6.3 Imaginative remembering as a way into the text. In his use of tradition Brueggemanns method is presentist in just the way that collective memory theory suggests. He writes that remembering is itself shot through with imaginative freedom to extrapolate and move beyond whatever there may have been of happening (2003a: 7). Accordingly, his determination is to make the interface of ancient text and contemporary community more poignant and palpable (2003a: xi). In this he is following an understanding of how classic texts work in the life of faith that has an ancient pedigree and is exemplified in contemporary scholarship by David Tracy: I will understand not merely something that was of interest back then, as a period piece, whose use, although valid then, is now spent. Rather I will grasp something of genuine here and now, in this time and place. I will then recognize that all interpretation of classic texts heightens my consciousness of my own finitude, my own radically historical reality. I can never repeat the classics to understand them. I must interpret them. Only then, as Kierkegaard insisted, do I really repeat them. (Tracy, 1981: 103) In this understanding, interpretation, even when it appears novel (as long as that novelty is in an appropriate measure consistent with the tradition), is a legitimate extension of the tradition as represented by the text. Hence, for Brueggemann, what he terms imaginative remembering (2003a: 8) is both a way of understanding the formation of the text and an essential way into the text now. He writes of the Old Testament: What parents have related to their children as normative tradition (that became canonized by long usage and has long been regarded as normative) is a world of meaning that has as its key character YHWH, the God of Israel, who operates in the narratives and songs of Israel that are taken as reliable renderings of reality. Given all kinds of critical restraints and awarenesses, one can only allow that such retellings are a disciplined, emancipated act of imagination. (2003a: 8) This retelling is, in Brueggemanns methodology, a necessary extension of the memory work evident in the Old Testament texts with which he works, since those texts are themselves a sustained memory that has been filtered through many generations of the interpretative process, with many interpreters imposing certain theological intentionalities on the memory that continues to be reformulated. (2003a: 4) Brueggemann is at pains to assert the force of this continuity right up to the present time. The preacher, in his understanding, does not stand as a remote and objective commentator on the text, nor as a skill-laden technician who applies ancient wisdom to contemporary life, but is rather in her or his labours at one with and contributing to the ongoing flow of a living stream of tradition: All the forces of imaginative articulation and ideological passion and the hiddenness of divine inspiration have continued to operate in the ongoing interpretive task of synagogue and church until the present day. (2003a: 12) This ongoing process of memory work that makes faith possible for the next generation Brueggemann terms traditioning (2003a: 9). Although he does not use the language of collective memory theory in his writings, it is clear that he is alert to the mechanisms it suggests. For example, he points out that each version of retelling has as its intention the notion that it should be the final retelling that presents the newly interpreted or understood correct version. As that retelling comes to prominence and wide use, however, it is itself subject to further retelling that will eventually be productive of a fresher version that will displace the earlier version, partly or wholly (2003a: 9). It is not hard to see in this process what Halbwachs described as new memories created by the pressure of current needs and relationships and the forgetting of other memories that no longer have a supporting social framework. For Brueggemann, this process of retelling and discarding works to reinforce his demand that an exegetical and homiletical use of the text that is creative and imaginative is both legitimate and advantageous. The exegete or the homiletician can use the traces of earlier memories in the ongoing task of traditioning. Brueggemann writes: The complexity of the text evident on any careful reading is due to the happy reality that as new acts of traditioning overcome and partly displace older materials, the older material is retained alongside newer tradition. That retention is a happy one, because it very often happens that a still later traditionalist returns to and finds useful older, discarded material thought to be beyond use. (2003a: 9) Brueggemanns usage also echoes Halbwachs contention (see section 3.3) that changes in religious collective memory are often strengthened by an appeal to the recovery of ancient memory that has somehow been forgotten. What marks the difference between the two approaches is that Brueggemann sees this reclamation as necessary for a creative and imaginative handling of tradition rather than simply a way of socially legitimizing what might otherwise seem to be corrosive of the tradition. In collective memory theory as delineated by Halbwachs, change and development in Christian religious memory is seen as inimical to faith, whereas Brueggemann believes that variations over time are not only conducive to faith but are required if the text is to retain its power to change perceptions in every age. In acknowledging this process, Brueggemann also acknowledges that the memory held is far from being a straightforward and simple storage of information, or, as he terms it, an innocent act of repo rtage (2003a: 9). Far from seeing the social construction of memory as a denial of faith, Brueggemann uses that constructionism as a way to advance a socially responsible close engagement with the biblical text. This bears on the subject of this study in two very direct ways. 6.4 Living tradition as a field of artistic endeavour. First, it is important to acknowledge that although Brueggemanns hermeneutical method is an expression of impatience with biblical scholarship that dwells on historical, redactional and textual issues to the exclusion of social concerns; it is also more than that. His conviction is that the logic of modernity with its passion for linear, objective, and systematized thinking, and its insistence on only working with the given facts, has too often effectively silenced the Bible even in the churches (2003a: 28). He writes: Our technical way of thinking reduces mystery to problem, transforms assurance into certitude, revises quality into quantity, and so takes the categories of biblical faith and represents them in manageable shapes. (1989: 2) His is a style of engagement with the biblical text that goes beyond historical and technical categories (though readily employing those tools when needed) to imaginative and rhetorical aspects embedded in the text so as to focus not on the cognitive outcomes of the text (though there finally are cognitive outcomes) but on the artistic processes that operate in the text and generate an imagined world within the text. Such artistic attentiveness takes seriously the exact placement and performance of words and phrases, of sounds and repetitions that give rise to an alternate sense of reality. (2007: 76) In terms of homiletic theory this emphasis on artistic attentiveness calls to mind the work of R.E.C. Browne (1976) (see sections 2.3 and 5.2.3 above) and the suggestion he first voiced in the 1950s that preaching is an artistic activity requiring similar processes of social understanding and interaction as those necessary to the production of music, poetry or painting (Browne, 1976: 18). Indeed Brueggemann is arguably more in sympathy with the approach of Browne than with his American New Homiletic colleagues. The inductive methodology of New Homiletics beginnings all too easily with human experience, and, according to Brueggemann, its effort to induce from understandings of human experience connections to the biblical text is the wrong starting point. He cites what he perceives to be an increasing inclination amongst seminarians who prefer for preaching some idea, some cause, some experience, some anything rather than the text. A community without its appropriate text clearly will have no power or energy or courage for mission; it will be endlessly quarrelsome because it depends on ideology and has no agreed-upon arena where it adjudicates its conflicts. (2007: 42) With the New Homileticians Brueggemann is determined to connect the text and the world, but since his homiletic conceives the text as always challenging and critiquing commonplace understandings of experience and reality, those commonplace understandings cannot be the interpreters beginning. Interestingly, the word relevance is a term he studiously avoids in his consideration of how preaching properly works. Indeed, in a recent article he asserts the text is not directly addressed to us, and we should not work too hard at making it immediately relevant (2007: 39). As an alternative he uses the term resonates as a way of indicating that the preachers task is to enable a word to be heard that comes from outside our closed system of reality (2007: 4). Preaching, he insists, must always be subversive (2000: 6) and he means that literally: it offers a version of faith lived in reality that gets under the dominant versions and opens new ways of existing. He writes: My theme is alternative, sub-version to version, the sermon a moment of alternative imagination, the preacher exposed as point man, point woman, to make up out of nothing more than our memory and our hope and our faith a radical option to the normalcy of deathliness. (2000: 9) So, far from being a simple preservation mechanism, traditioning, in Brueggemanns methodology, becomes a creative activity in which each generation of faith reworks the tradition so as to maintain its liveliness: We now know (or we think we know) that human transformation (the way people change) does not happen through didacticism or through excessive certitude but through the playful entertainment of another scripting of reality that may subvert the old given text and its interpretation and lead to the embrace of an alternative text and its redescription of reality. (2007: 26) This is a radical understanding of faiths collective memory in that it lays the emphasis on traditions continuity being found in the telling and retelling which is properly productive of changes and shifts in traditions content. Here, the maintenance of a living tradition is clearly paramount; but processes of that maintenance are acknowledged as continually bringing to birth new ways of understanding how that tradition is experienced as living. The ways collective memories change are an aspect of how tradition functions effectively rather than being seen as a threat to the preservation of tradition. Brueggemanns traditioning works towards the creation of world-views in the anthropological sense; it is an insistence on an epistemology that shuns a too strident and dominating objectivism. As he puts it: Reality is not fixed and settled it cannot be described objectively. We do not simply respond to a world that is here, but we engage in constituting that world by our participation, or action, and our speech. As participants in the constitutive act, we do not describe what is there, but we evoke what is not fully there until we act or speak. (1988: 12) In this Brueggemann offers an understanding of the preachers task that is akin to David Buttricks phenomenological approach (Buttrick, 1987) in that it calls forth a sermonic language that can construe the world in new ways. Thus Brueggemanns definition of imagination is: The God-given, emancipated capacity to picture (or image) reality — God, world, self — in alternative ways outside conventional, commonly accepted givens. Imagination is attentiveness to what is otherwise, other than our taken-for-granted world. (2001: 27) This imaginative ability allows new insights and understandings to develop from within tradition. Processes of displacement and forgetting may indeed be at work in this, as collective memory theory suggests; but that does not necessarily mean that previous memories are just abandoned. Rather, imagination enables a reviewing incorporation of new perspectives that are beyond the easy conventions previously assumed. 6.5 Preaching as contested production. Preaching is at heart, according to Bruggemann, about the construel of alternatives. This assertion discloses a second point about how his work has a direct bearing on this study; and that shifts the focus from the nature of tradition to the practice of preaching. If traditioning is fundamentally about epistemology then preaching, as a mechanism of memory maintenance, must itself be productive of this shift in knowing. Consequently, preaching is, in Brueggemanns estimation, always a dangerous, indeed hazardous, activity since it is essentially a process of production understood in its widest creative sense. Like any productive process there is much that can prospectively go wrong in the process itself, let alone in its ultimate consumption as a product whose characteristics are potentially suspect or unwelcome. The dominant worldview in which both preacher and hearer exists is one in which reductionism with its relentless crude simplification of complexities and subtleties holds sway most of the time (1987: 13). In such circumstances preaching that is a creative weaving of the tradition into fresh resonant patterns can come as an unwelcome shock; it appears to put a question mark against more usual didactic, doctrinal or moralizing homiletical styles (2007: 29). That, of course, is precisely Brueggemanns purpose: Preaching is a peculiar, freighted, risky act each time we do it: entrusted with an irascible, elusive, polyvalent subject and flying low under the dominant version with a subversive offer of another version to be embraced by subversives. (2000: 6, italics original) Brueggemann situates preaching in precisely that area of contestation and change related to operative social frameworks that is familiar to collective memory theorists. That Brueggemann applies notions of production and consumption to the text and its exposition might seem strange in that kindred concepts such as commodification and consumerism are things he frequently criticises severely. In doing so he is, perhaps, making the point that the tendency of the dominating economic model to corrupt and distort underscores its seriousness and makes using its terms all the more resonant when applied to preaching. Preaching is to be taken with the utmost seriousness precisely because the world it aims to create offers a profound alternative to the dominating economic worldview. Preaching presents a new choice which challenges the hegemony of the usual way of viewing production and consumption, but the resonance of that choice is such that terms themselves are appropriately used: When the community has thus produced a text, it is the task of the community to consume the text, that is, to take, use, heed, respond, and act upon the text. The entire process of the text, then, is an act of production and consumption whereby a new world is chosen or an old world is defended, or there is transformation of old world to new world. The purpose of using the categories of production and consumption is to suggest that the textual process, especially the interpretative act of preaching, is never a benign, innocent, or straightforward act. Anyone who imagines that he or she is a benign or innocent preacher of the text is engaged in self-deception. Preaching as interpretation is always a daring, dangerous act, in which the interpreter, together with the receivers of the interpretation, is consuming a text and producing a world. (2007: 87) In other words, to facilitate this consumptive production, it is essential that the text be kept in conversation with what the congregation already knows and believes (2007: 100). This conversation is at its most effective when it is clearly opposed to both a false kind of objectivity that assumes the world is a closed, fixed, fated, given and a kind of subjectivity that assumes we are free or able to conjure up private worlds that may exist in a domesticated sphere without accountability to or impingement from the larger public world (2007: 100). Preaching has to keep the conversation going—an inevitable conclusion, given Brueggemanns dynamic understanding of tradition. It is intended that this analysis of Brueggemanns writings will have made plain the numerous points at which his thought provides fruitful links to the subject of this study. However, before moving to an examination of continuity and community in relation to collective memory it is worth reiterating some of the keys issues at a little length. In particular, the relationship between tradition, as represented by the Scriptural texts and contemporary concerns, will be examined further. That in turn will allow some extended discussion of the way in which this tradition is able to generate more than a straightforward replication of itself out of those contemporary concerns. Tradition is seen here as an environment within which the preacher is empowered towards an imaginative and artistic creativity that both sustains and develops that environment. That discussion will provide a conceptual bridge into the consideration of a brief but significant essay contributed by Anthony Thiselton to th e 1981 Doctrine Commission of the Church of Englands report Believing in the Church. Through Thiseltons work, issues of continuity and transmission will be directly addressed. 6.6 The presentist use of tradition. Brueggemanns perspective on the preaching task fits well with collective memory theory in that it is essentially presentist in its nature. Indeed, Brueggemanns insistence on what the text means now provides a positive theological and ministerial undergirding of the processes of collective memory. His understanding of imaginative remembering as the core tool of the preachers interpretation re-positions those collective memory processes as purposeful rather than simply inevitable. The preacher as hermeneutikos enters the stream of the ongoing flow of a living tradition and strives to be part of that lively continuity through homiletic activity; what Brueggemann understands as a continuing process of traditioning. It would not be an exaggeration to say that Brueggemann places this dynamic understanding of tradition at the very centre of faithful living. If so fundamental to the practice of faith, then that traditioning must also be essential to Christian mission. As Rowan Williams puts it: The Christian is at once possessed by an authoritative urgency to communicate the good news, and constrained by the awareness of how easily the words of proclamation become godless, powerless to transform. The urgency must often be channelled into listening and waiting, and into the expansion of the Christian imagination itself into something that can cope with the seriousness of the world. It is certainly true that, for any of this to be possible, here must be a real immersion in the Christian tradition itself. (2000: 40) In Brueggemanns thought, preaching becomes a key component of contemporary biblical interpretation in that it makes explicit in a demonstrable way just how tradition works. The essential rootedness of homiletics in a faith tradition becomes its greatest strength. This point needs to be underlined because it is not to be taken as special pleading for preaching as an exceptional kind of communication that must by its nature be allowed an ideological position inappropriate elsewhere. Instead, this is a declaration that the explicit rootedness of preaching exposes the reality of similar, but frequently denied rootedness, in other areas of discourse. Furthermore, that that very rootedness provides a platform for a sometimes radical re-evaluation of realities previously simply assumed—what Brueggemann understands as a construal of alternatives. In terms of collective memory, the recasting of memories becomes not the rather defensive mechanism Halbwachs described in his consideration of religion, but a creative and imaginative weaving of new possibilities out of the warp and weft of what has been inherited. This allows an adjustment of Halbwachs rather positivistic functionalism towards a more phenomenological perspective that is alert to the dynamism inherent in the tradition itself. Some words from Peter Ochs study of Peircean pragmatism in relation to Scripture seem apposite: For the Christian community, the Bible is thus not a sign of some external reality, but a reality itself whose meanings display the doubly dialogic relationships between a particular text and its context within the Bible as a whole, and between the Bible as a whole and the conduct of the community of interpreters. (1998: 309) The denial of an objectivizing distance between the preacher and the text may be justly assumed in the ministry of preaching, but Ochs study and Brueggemanns practice are suggestive of more than that: they point to a kind of knowing and learning only available through tradition. What is being challenged here is the easy assumption that a tradition-free, abstract, universal rationality is superior to such tradition-embedded thinking. Indeed, traditioning considered in the widest terms must put a question mark against the very idea of tradition-free knowing. In considering the influential works of Michael Polanyi (1891-1976), Alasdair MacIntyre (born 1929), and Charles Taylor (born 1931) Bruggemann makes the point that the imagination so crucial to development and change is generated from within tradition (2001: 31). 6.7 The generative nature of Scripture as tradition. Although, as acknowledged earlier, the relationship of tradition and rationality raises large epistemological issues beyond the direct scope of this thesis the subject needs to be broached here since it draws attention to an important aspect of tradition, namely its ability to seed fresh, creative understandings that are generative of new developments whilst retaining congruity with the tradition from which they arose. Colloquial usage of the term tradition makes it synonymous with preservation, but that fails to acknowledge this generative ability. Brueggemann sees generative traditioning at

Descent to the Underworld in the Aeneid by Virgil and the Odyssey by Ho

Descent to the Underworld in the Aeneid and the Odyssey I chose to compare the Odyssey written by the Greek poet Homer and the Aeneid by the Roman poet Virgil. I will focus my interest on Book 11 of the Odyssey and Book 6 of the Aeneid, since that is when both of the main characters make an educational visit to the underworld. The description of the underworld created by Homer's wild imagination, inspired Virgil eight centuries later. Virgil's masterpiece was planned as an imitation of Homer's poems, so one automatically starts comparing the creations of the two authors. They were separated by eight centuries and by the cultural differences of their people. These differences are reflected on the structure of their compositions. At first the reasons for Aeneas's and Odysseus's voyage to the world below seem similar. Both of them want to receive information from the people who have already died. This knowledge is necessary in order for them to continue a successful life in the real world, amongst the real people. Aeneas wants to ask his wise father Anchises for advise about the foundation of a new state - Rome. His father tells him about the future of his family. This prophecy includes the history of Rome all the way until the days of Virgil himself. What glories follow Dardan generations ====================================== In after years, and from Italian blood What famous children in your line will come, Souls of the future, living in our name, I shall tell clearly now, and in the telling Teach you your destiny.[1] The need for Odysseus to travel to the underworld doesn't seem to be motivated at all... ...not only the characters but also the poets who wrote the two outstanding compositions, on which all of the world's literature is based. Homer who glorifies the great value of a person and Virgil who glorifies the grandeur of the State - Rome. [IMAGE] Works Cited Fagles, Robert. The Odyssey. New York: Penguin Books USA Inc. 1996 Fitzgerald, Robert. The Aeneid. Penguin Books. --------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] Virgil Aeneid B.6 line 1015 [2] Homer Odyssey B.11 line 111 [3] Homer Odyssey B.11 line 129 [4] Homer Odyssey B.11 line 153 [5] Homer Odyssey B.11 line 614 [6] Homer Odyssey B.11 line 540 [7] Virgil Aeneid B.6 line 883 [8] Virgil Aeneid B.6 line 824 [9] Virgil Aeneid B.6 line 835 [10] Virgil Aeneid B.6 line 1230

Using Tangrams To Explore Mathematical Concepts Essay -- Learning Math

Using Tangrams To Explore Mathematical Concepts Representations have always been a very important part of teaching mathematics. The visuals and hands on experiences help to aide the teachers by assisting them in relaying important topics and concepts to the students. By having a representation, the students are more likely to remember what they have learned, and recall the lesson when it comes time to take a test or do their homework. Within mathematics, many different manipulatives are used to enhance learning. Among the most commonly used are tangrams. The seven pieces that make up a set of tangrams have value well beyond their small size. One of their most important values, other than providing educational entertainment to students, is the introduction of geometric properties and theorems. When introducing the idea of using tangrams, it is good to tell the old Chinese folktale about how they came to be. The story goes as follows, â€Å"A young boy named Tan wished to give the emperor a beautiful tile. As he carries the tile to the palace, he accidentally drops it and it breaks it into seven pieces. Tan tries and tries to restore the tile to its original shape. In the process, he finds out that he can create all sorts of fascinating pictures with the seven pieces of his tile. The seven tile pieces are what are now called tangrams.† (Tackling Tangrams, 2000) This story illustrates that tangrams can be used a method of discovery, as well as for enjoyment since many pictures can be formed. It also helps students to see why they are able to form a square, which is the main basis for the manipulative. It is beneficial to give the students some time to play and explore with the tangrams after the story is told so they can find different pictures. By having the students use investigation, a teacher is able to establish a trusting classroom atmosphere as well as have the students see that abstract concepts are very meaningful. (Conundrum, 2001) By definition, â€Å"a tangram is an ancient Chinese puzzle that provides another avenue for exploring rational number concepts.† (Teaching and Learning, 83) They are very useful to explore number concepts as well as in guided discovery. Tangrams are used for many things, including, understanding fractions, relating areas, discovering the Pyth... ...om. Guided discovery through concrete materials will take over all math classes soon. As long as tangrams are among them, the students will learn a lot and retain the information for a lot longer. Works Cited â€Å"Areas of Tangram Pieces.† http://mathforum.org/trscavo/tangrams/area.html. â€Å"Developing Geometric Understandings and Spatial Skills through Tangram Puzzles.† http://illuminations.nctm.org/index_d.aspx?id=168 Hatfield, Mary. â€Å"Use of Manipulative Devices: Elementary School Cooperating Teachers Report.† School Science and Mathematics. Volume 94, Issue 6. October 1994. â€Å"More Tangram Activities.† http://mathforum.org/trscavo/tangrams/activities.html Naylor, Michael. â€Å"Tangram Tricks.† Teaching Pre K-8. 32 no 8, 26-7. May 2002. â€Å"The Pythagorean Theorem with Tangrams† http://www.math.wichita.edu/history/activities/geometry-act.html#pyth-tan. Rigdon, Deanna. â€Å"Tackling Tangrams.† Teaching Children Mathematics. 6 no 5, 304-5. January 2000. Rubenstein. Teaching and Learning Middle Grades Mathematics. Key College Publishing. California. 2004 Thatcher, Debra. â€Å"The Tangram Conundrum.† Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School. 6 no 7, 397-9. March 2001.

Nutrition Application Internship :: essays research papers

Based on a variety of personal experiences, I became very interested in the role of foods and nutrition. During my last year of highschool, my favorite who had a successful business succumbed to a strange alliment. He was tired all the time and was diagnosed to live only 1 year. While he didn't have cancer, his bloodwork had many abnormalites the doctors couldn't diagnose. He began to seek out other doctors who ultimately recommended that his see a dietitian. This changed his life. He started to eat low fat foods thats packed in vitamins, quit smoking and drinking and started to exercise regular bases. One year later, he could get out of bed, live as an full energetic person as he had before. This made him inspired to study nutrition in America. I was overwhelmed after I knew his history and never looked at food the same way again. It is clear to me now that how people eat and what people eat is an important factor in acheving optimum health, that just exercise isn't enough. I am inspired to explore the field of dietetics which is very broad and dietitians perform a variety of functions in their jobs. As a dietitian, I can work in a wide variety of positions such as a foodservice manager in commercial or institutional, a community nutritionist, such as the WIC and Headstart, a consultant to major food corporations such as Kelloggs and Kraft or go into sales. I am very interested in working in a position where I can help people develop habits to improve their health. I may eventually go on to graduate school to advance my knowledge of dietetics. My cultural background will be a great contribution to the Washington State University Coordinated Dietetics Program. Being raised in a Malasia, having visited different countries, and now living in the United States, I have experienced the similarities and differences among many diverse cultural groups and nutritional diets. This broad exposure to different cultures allowed me to relate to different types of people by understanding their ways and beliefs, a quality that will help me work well with other students and people. For example, many Malasians will eat something that is unhealthy in nutritional standards and has no benefits to the body. However, they will continue to consume it because it is common in their culture. I would like to teach Malasian people to look at food from a cultural and nutritional angle to be more healthful. Nutrition Application Internship :: essays research papers Based on a variety of personal experiences, I became very interested in the role of foods and nutrition. During my last year of highschool, my favorite who had a successful business succumbed to a strange alliment. He was tired all the time and was diagnosed to live only 1 year. While he didn't have cancer, his bloodwork had many abnormalites the doctors couldn't diagnose. He began to seek out other doctors who ultimately recommended that his see a dietitian. This changed his life. He started to eat low fat foods thats packed in vitamins, quit smoking and drinking and started to exercise regular bases. One year later, he could get out of bed, live as an full energetic person as he had before. This made him inspired to study nutrition in America. I was overwhelmed after I knew his history and never looked at food the same way again. It is clear to me now that how people eat and what people eat is an important factor in acheving optimum health, that just exercise isn't enough. I am inspired to explore the field of dietetics which is very broad and dietitians perform a variety of functions in their jobs. As a dietitian, I can work in a wide variety of positions such as a foodservice manager in commercial or institutional, a community nutritionist, such as the WIC and Headstart, a consultant to major food corporations such as Kelloggs and Kraft or go into sales. I am very interested in working in a position where I can help people develop habits to improve their health. I may eventually go on to graduate school to advance my knowledge of dietetics. My cultural background will be a great contribution to the Washington State University Coordinated Dietetics Program. Being raised in a Malasia, having visited different countries, and now living in the United States, I have experienced the similarities and differences among many diverse cultural groups and nutritional diets. This broad exposure to different cultures allowed me to relate to different types of people by understanding their ways and beliefs, a quality that will help me work well with other students and people. For example, many Malasians will eat something that is unhealthy in nutritional standards and has no benefits to the body. However, they will continue to consume it because it is common in their culture. I would like to teach Malasian people to look at food from a cultural and nutritional angle to be more healthful.

Story of Stuff

The Story of Stuff is a fun, clear, lively, and timely treatment of the materials economy that shows how the real industrial economy intersects with sustainability. Although the economy appears to undermine sustainability, it works for the burgeoning global middle classes, for now, as the middle class increases consumption, the demand that elicits production. This theme is central. I test marketed the book and others among students in various settings, discovering that students preferred The Story of Stuff and learned from studying the book.The core concept, the materials economy, is not a formal term derived from economic theory. The materials cycle comes close to the concept of supply chains, however. Annie may have invented the term to suit her purpose here: more trees and less stuff (read, waste). I have used the cycle process model effectively in my public policy course. View the logo and click on the ovals to see this process framework in action. The material cycle model is a c omprehensible, dynamic, and flexible container.The book treats the economy as a grounded and concrete phenomenon rather than an abstract and detached set of theories. The actual economy provides the substance of ENST305, not the abstracted theories such as neoclassical economics, which will be treated immediately after The Story of Stuff, as displayed in the schedule. The strategic move, from Karl Polanyi: examine the substantive economy, not formal economic theory per se. See my overview of Karl Polanyi as social ecology.The critique of ecological economics at the macro-level, or big picture level, is squarely upon the growth in physical scale of the economy. Note that growth is distinct from development, an improvement in quality or the actualization of potential. But expansion and intrusion is what stuff is all about: stuff is tangible and physical. Note that the book does not really treat the service economy, but focuses on the world of commodities that are products (goods), not services per se. The notion of externalities, the micro-level critique of ecological economics, is central to the The Story of Stuff.See page XX. View a video that explains how even this page, located in the cloud, contributes to climate change/. Fairness is central to the book. World Sustainability, after all, must be fair. See the article recommended by Joaquin Maravillas about Ugandans being pushed off their land for the sake of environmental services. This may help in dealing with climate change but is unacceptable. This shows how commodification, even of environmental services, can lead to what David Harvey terms dispossession.I have discovered that The Story of Stuff works for students who have not yet studied economics or feel put off by economics. The book makes economics accessible but does so in the context of sustainability. Students report that they learn from the book and find the book accessible to them. This matters, a lot. Notice the chapter titles. We will discuss and contrast with the paradigm of orthodox economic theory (neoclassical economics) and also ecological economics. This gets us into the materials economy from an industrial ecology perspective. Story of Stuff The Story of Stuff is a fun, clear, lively, and timely treatment of the materials economy that shows how the real industrial economy intersects with sustainability. Although the economy appears to undermine sustainability, it works for the burgeoning global middle classes, for now, as the middle class increases consumption, the demand that elicits production. This theme is central. I test marketed the book and others among students in various settings, discovering that students preferred The Story of Stuff and learned from studying the book.The core concept, the materials economy, is not a formal term derived from economic theory. The materials cycle comes close to the concept of supply chains, however. Annie may have invented the term to suit her purpose here: more trees and less stuff (read, waste). I have used the cycle process model effectively in my public policy course. View the logo and click on the ovals to see this process framework in action. The material cycle model is a c omprehensible, dynamic, and flexible container.The book treats the economy as a grounded and concrete phenomenon rather than an abstract and detached set of theories. The actual economy provides the substance of ENST305, not the abstracted theories such as neoclassical economics, which will be treated immediately after The Story of Stuff, as displayed in the schedule. The strategic move, from Karl Polanyi: examine the substantive economy, not formal economic theory per se. See my overview of Karl Polanyi as social ecology.The critique of ecological economics at the macro-level, or big picture level, is squarely upon the growth in physical scale of the economy. Note that growth is distinct from development, an improvement in quality or the actualization of potential. But expansion and intrusion is what stuff is all about: stuff is tangible and physical. Note that the book does not really treat the service economy, but focuses on the world of commodities that are products (goods), not services per se. The notion of externalities, the micro-level critique of ecological economics, is central to the The Story of Stuff.See page XX. View a video that explains how even this page, located in the cloud, contributes to climate change/. Fairness is central to the book. World Sustainability, after all, must be fair. See the article recommended by Joaquin Maravillas about Ugandans being pushed off their land for the sake of environmental services. This may help in dealing with climate change but is unacceptable. This shows how commodification, even of environmental services, can lead to what David Harvey terms dispossession.I have discovered that The Story of Stuff works for students who have not yet studied economics or feel put off by economics. The book makes economics accessible but does so in the context of sustainability. Students report that they learn from the book and find the book accessible to them. This matters, a lot. Notice the chapter titles. We will discuss and contrast with the paradigm of orthodox economic theory (neoclassical economics) and also ecological economics. This gets us into the materials economy from an industrial ecology perspective.

The Benefits of Team Working

3. 1:Assess the benefits of team working in my organisation. Team works means the process of working collaboratively with a group of people in order to achieve a goal. Teamwork is often a crucial part of a business organisation, as it is often necessary for colleagues to work well together, trying their best in any circumstance. Teamwork means that people will try to cooperate, using their individual skills and providing constructive feedback, despite any personal conflict between individuals. Now I am going to discuss the benefits of team working in my organisation. DiversityWhen a team works on problem-solving, organisation benefit from various ideas and perspectives. That variety often leads to creative solutions. Brainstorming sessions uncover ideas and answers that might not have occurred otherwise. Speed Another benefit of teamwork is the speed of project completion for an organisation. Duties can be shared and get done quicker. Very large tasks can be broken up among team memb ers and are less daunting. Quality Teamwork encourages a greater commitment to quality in the organisation. Team members have more sway encouraging each other than a single manager dictating the work.Morale When the employees of an organisation work on teams, they tend to feel like they're really part of the process and take ownership of it. Improved morale results, and that in turn leads to less turnover. Synergy Synergy occurs when forces combine and the result is greater than the sum of the individual parts. Teamwork enhances synergy, and the result is greater efficiency and a more positive end result. 3. 2: A conflict I faced when working in a team for achieving specific goals. I worked as a technician for a large firm.I worked in a team of seven people who prepared material for shipping. On the team were four women and two other men. The people came from three different countries. One of the men on the team feels I worked too slowly and was not doing my share of the work proper ly. He laughs with the other team members about me and talks about me in nasty ways. When I tried to talk about that problem, the rest of the team seemed to be against me. It was a very uncomfortable situation for me to work in; I was constantly made fun of and criticised. I was not understanding what to do.

Unbelievable Horrors

Aorta Criminal Justice Administration 201 American Military University Skinnier Nikkei Abstract In recent years, the lawmakers and criminal Justice experts have conveyed alarm regarding the growing prison population in elder prisons, along with the crumbling prison structures housing these inmates. While a majority of individuals agree this issue warrants immediate attention, the concurrence diminishes about how to attack this problem.A review of decisions set into place with laws, it has become clear that monetary confinements of elder prisons have become invisible barriers to the bargaining table. The paper compares the cost of renovating elder prisons to the costs of creating new facilities. This autopsy of decisions delves into the financial aspects of closing down older structures and whether or not it was cost beneficial. The numerous facilities coming into the â€Å"over-the-hill† age require an extensive examination to prevent monetary waste in the future. A Review of Decisions The dark side of humanity has existed for millennia.Some would contend that murder is the darkest, vial atrocity blanketing humanity. From the first documented Biblical fratricide involving Cain and Able, to recent homicides plaguing the media outlets, mankind has struggled to prevent these unbelievable horrors and reprimand the convicted. Society did not want these individuals roaming freely, as their unspeakable crimes invoked fear in the mind of every law-abiding citizen. Thus, structures were erected to cage the criminals and further prevent crimes against humanity. As time went on, more and more structures were needed to house the influx of criminals.Existing facilities were running beyond capacity and some were in deed of dire repair. The question put forth was, â€Å"Is it financially practical to renovate existing structures or to build entirely new ones? † Additional costs factors, such as food, clothing, healthcare, and educational programs, were itemized and incorporated into that equation. Converting elder prisons with substantial monetary confinements may and may not be the best practical solution. Looking into the closure of the Eastern State Penitentiary the following questions can be answered: 1 .Was it practical to close the Eastern State Penitentiary? 2. Is it financially beneficial to e-open the Eastern State Penitentiary? 3. Why build new facilities? 4. What are the plans for abandoned U. S. Prisons? Understanding the true reason for this prison closure could answer future questions regarding taking a facility out of operation. Whether it is a court-ordered ruling due to cruel and unusual punishment or asbestos issues creating a health concern, it is necessary to truly evaluate the closure and expose monetary waste. Incarceration as a form of punishment was first documented in the 1st millennia BC in the early civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. Suspected or guilty criminals awaited their death sentence or command to be come a slave in underground facilities labeled dungeons. The Ancient Romans adopted even harsher methods of incarceration by building prisons exclusively underground with tight walkways and cells in pitch darkness. (Prison History. N. D. ). Time gave way to incarceration reform and the world's first true prison, the Eastern State Penitentiary, was opened in 1829.Abandoning corporal punishment and harsh treatment of the inmates, the Eastern State Penitentiary was designed with complete and solitary confinement in mind to alp the criminal move to reflection and change their criminal ways. Was it practical to close the Eastern State Penitentiary? Situated on 11 acres near downtown Philadelphia, PA, the Eastern State Penitentiary was considered the most expensive American building during the sass's and soon became the most famous prison in the world.The design, o'clock wings radiating outward from a central rotunda, allowed each o'clock with â€Å"central heat, running water, a flush t oilet, and a skylight. † Additionally, each o'clock had an adjacent â€Å"private out door exercise yard contained by a 10-foot high wall. (U. S. History. Org. N. D. ). Originally built to hold 300 inmates, by the sass's, it was forced to house over 2,000. Due to the costs of the inflated prison population, the subsequent cells, even those built underground, did not have skylights, lighting, or flushing toilets.By the sass's, over 130 years after it was erected, the Eastern State Penitentiary was outdated and in need of extensive repairs. The neo-Gothic exterior has weathered the tests of time; however, the electrical and mechanical systems inside of the prison walls were deteriorating. The monetary resources needed to ring the structure back to its momentum were too vast and in 1971, the state of Pennsylvania closed the doors to the once famous prison. (Woodman, 2008). Is it financially beneficial to re-open the Eastern State Penitentiary?The city of Philadelphia, PA acquire d the title to the Eastern State Penitentiary for $400,000 in 1984. Plans for redevelopment of the site were halted by pleas to then-Mayor Goode and all proposals were rejected for commercial use. In 1988, the first limited tours were given at the abandoned prison. The Pew Charitable Trusts held fundraisers to obtain financial resources for the preservation of the National Historic Landmark. These efforts began in 1991. (Easterner. Org, n. D. ) The trickle of money into the preservation and restoration of the prison filtered in at a snail's pace.With the help of another fundraiser, the Eastern State raised over $5 million dollars in 2009. According to Annie Major, author of â€Å"Do We Really Still Need the Eastern State Penitentiary? â€Å", states $2 million dollars of the $5 million was spent â€Å"to conserve the prison synagogue, the Brillion millions, the print-shop roof, ND sections of the floor, perimeter wall and lights. † (Major, 2011). (One of the reasons the pri son closed was due to the electrical systems needing repair. She expresses concern with the constant money pit of renovations, Just to keep the prison alive for the sake of tours. She feels at this rate, â€Å"the Eastern State could be a century-long, multi-million dollar project; one that will leave in our midst a fully restored, inoperative 19th-century prison. † The plan is not to re-build the prison but the end goal is to keep it in a â€Å"maintainable† ruin. According to the website, Radiochemical. Mom, the prison is a â€Å"safe place to be since it is so old it has no lead paint or asbestos. † (Radiochemical. Com, n. D. ).Imagining the repairs that were completed with $2 million dollars, it isn't difficult to figure out that the costs of bringing the prison back to a full-scale operational facility would take less monetary resources than building a completely new prison. With the absence of asbestos and lead, thereby depleting the need for even more fin ancial resources, bringing the prison back to handle over-crowding in other locations may not take as much money as once suspected. However, that isn't what is currently planned for the state of Pennsylvania. Why build new facilities?The current Governor of Pennsylvania, Tom Corbett, and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Secretary John Went have allocated $400 million dollars on two 4,100-bed facilities and construction has already begun. The elder prison these two are replacing, Aggregated, had accepted the inmates from Eastern State. Governor Corbett and Secretary Wendell will not release the figures it would take to renovate Aggregated, only stating that the state of Pennsylvania will â€Å"save money by alluding more efficient facilities. † (Decelerate PA, n. D. ). The monetary costs of renovating the Eastern State Penitentiary has also been withheld.In the sass's, when the decision was made to close the structure, the future prison population was unforeseen. Alt hough, based on Eastern State's experience with over-crowding, officials at that time knew there would not be enough space to house the influx of inmates. Yet, looking into the possibility of turning the Eastern State Penitentiary into a â€Å"super-Max† prison or a facility house only those on Pennsylvania death row would have been reviewed. The Eastern State prison could also have been used to house only those individuals for short-term prison sentences or the most violent, repeat offenders the state of Pennsylvania has witnessed.Now, there are two existing structures that could very well be renovated at a fraction of the costs of two new facilities. One is still in operation and the other is only open for public tours. Factor in the yearly operating costs statewide of all Pennsylvania prisons, there is a need to drastically curb waste and prevent unnecessary correctional structures. The fiscal year of 2010 brought about a $1. 6 billion dollar price tag for Pennsylvania pri son expenditures. 22% of this figure was outside of the normal prisons operating costs. (Vera. Org, 2012).The average cost, per year, to house over 48,000 inmates was $42,339 per inmate. Adding to the $1. 6 billion dollars is the $400 million for two new facilities, thereby costing the average taxpayer over $3,000. (Vera. Org, 2012). Looking at other ways to significantly decrease the burdens placed on the taxpayers by housing, feeding, educating, and reforming the ballooning prison population, there needs to be a more thorough examination into allocating millions of dollars for new prisons instead of renovating existing structures. What are the plans for abandoned U. S. Prisons?Numerous prison facilities nationwide have been closed and/or abandoned in favor of more modern and spacious correctional facilities. Some of these locations have turned into utter wastelands. Take for instance, the Old Essex County Prison in Newark, N. J. As a testament to time, the unabated decay has turne d into a haven of drug addicts finding refuge in the old prison cells. Condemning the property will not reverent serious injury or death and its negligence is far too severe to be restored structurally. Another location that sits idle is the former Missouri State Penitentiary.This prison opened its doors in 1831 and was fully operational for 168 years. (Longer than the Eastern State Penitentiary. ) It finally closed its doors in 2004. The monetary confinements by the state prevented any type of serious renovations and public tours began in 2006. (As of 01 October 2013, the public tours have been suspended due to a site assessment finding mold in sections of the prison. ) Due to the state of Missouri lading the title to the property and a dwindling economy, the future looks very bleak for â€Å"the bloodiest 47 acres west of the Mississippi. Lastly, the West Virginia State Penitentiary in Mountainside, W. V. Opened for operations 1876. Through its history, the West Virginia State Pe nitentiary made the United States Department of Corrections Top Ten Most Violent Correctional Facilities. In 1986, the West Virginia State Supreme Court ruled that the ex. foots cells were deemed cruel and unusual punishment. 9 years later, in 1995, the West Virginia State Penitentiary closed its doors for good. Today, public tours of the facility are the only operations occurring at this once notorious prison.As structures age and the prison population continues to increase, more and more facilities are being ushered in to deal with this revolving door off problem. Left in the wake are structurally sound buildings with very little to no use to the state or the cities they sit in. Other than daily public tours and haunted houses every Halloween, these buildings could have potential to save the taxpayers of the state millions of dollars annually. Instead of wasteful spending to build new facilities, existing ones an be renovated to comply with current federal and state laws at half t he cost.