Marijuana as a Gift from Mother Earth Essay - 1017 Words

Marijuana as a Gift from Mother Earth When and where will the senseless persecutions of America’s Marijuana users end? These Marijuana smokers are typically middle class males, between the ages of 17 and 39, and one in three have no prior felony charges on their records. (HRW World Report) However, each year, hundreds of thousands of them are arrested and thrown into jail, alongside murderers, rapists, and child molesters. The â€Å"Marihuana Tax Act† was passed in August 1937, and took effect on October 1, an incident which would forever change the country. The main reason behind the ban placed upon Marijuana was the same as most other drug prohibitions – the oppression of minorities. Case in point, the first anti-drug law on record†¦show more content†¦Although white drug users outnumber blacks by 5 to 1, and blacks only make up 13 percent of the U.S. population, over 62 percent of prisoners incarcerated for drug related charges are black. (ABC) This alarming statistic shows the blatant racism of the â€Å"War on Drugs†, which is more a war on blacks than drugs. Between the years of 1970 and 1998, over 11.5 million people were incarcerated for acts ranging from simple possession of Marijuana, to sale and manufacture of Marijuana – a category that encompasses all charges related to growing, distribution, and cultivation. 87 percent of all arrests were for possession, while 13 percent of arrests were for sale/manufacture. (NORML) Our prisons are so overcrowded that approximately 24 states are under Federal orders to set some prisoners free. There are over 1.5 million people in Federal, State, and local correctional facilities at the time of this paper’s writing. Yet, the War on Drugs continues, and if its â€Å"ultimate goal† is reached – the incarceration of every drug user, dealer, and grower, there will be approximately 30 million more people in our prisons. This is more people than the combined populations of California, Arizona, and New Mexico. To incarcerate every drug user in the country, we would have to spend over 15 trillion dollars, a figure that would not only bankrupt the country and destroy the working force, but would also leave no money to run the prisonsShow MoreRelatedA New Experience And Deeper Healing1409 Words   |  6 Pagesused in sacrament for over two millennia. It is known widely for its healing abilities of the mind body and soul. If you are going to abuse t his like other psychoactive substances, then an ayahuasca retreat is not for you. The ceremonies can be far from beautiful, and may surface past traumas as well as cause physical effects that subside once the effects wear off. A physical healing happens in the form of purging, this is believed to be bad energy or spirits leaving the body. Those who have livedRead MoreLife Is A Hard Journey1564 Words   |  7 Pagesas the chacruna or guambisa. Ayahuasca is known widely for its healing abilities of the mind, body, and soul. Those that plan to abuse this drug like other psychoactive substances, should not attend an ayahuasca retreat. The ceremonies can be far from beautiful, and may surface past traumas. As well, they may cause physical effects that subside once the intended effects wear off. A physical healing happens in the form of purging. This is believed to be bad energy or spirits leaving the body. ThoseRead MoreThe Accomplishments Of The Whitney Houston1565 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"As I lay me down, heaven hear me now. I’m lost without a cause, after giving it my all. Winter storms have come, and darkened my sun. After all that I’ve been through, who on earth can I turn to? I look to you,† quoted from the song â€Å"I Look to You† by Whitney Houston. Whitney Houston came out with this song after she got out of rehab, making it seem like it was her recovery song or letting her world of fans know she was back. Everyone always has a â€Å"rough patch† in life whether they wantRead MoreMarijuana Position Paper - Pro Legalization3633 Words   |  15 PagesResearch Based Position Paper Marijuana Laws in a Rapidly Changing American Society The turbulent history of Marijuana prohibition in America is one filled with racial motives and propaganda, but surprisingly was not an issue before 80 years ago. In fact, when Ronald Reagan was a child, marijuana was still legal in his state (Guither). Many people assume that marijuana was made illegal through some kind of scientific or medical process which classified it as a dangerous drug, and thoughRead MoreEthics Essay - Modern Philosophy3086 Words   |  13 Pagesbackground, gender, race, and age can all factor into why that person thinks the way that they do. For centuries, our government has quarreled on public policy due to the fact everyone has different moral standards. Problems like gay marriage, the use of marijuana, and abortion have been thrown back and forth for the past decade or so. Laws have been made, but a lot of them now are being modified or debated all over again, because nobody can seem to agree. Even separate political parties exist because of beli efsRead MoreEssay on A Better Earth4696 Words   |  19 Pagesdo, they would just take steps to make the patient as comfortable as possible until the end came. However, this is not a human patient. It is our home - the earth. The store scenario well depicts what is happening to our planet, dirty air, global warning, polluted waters, and toxic wastes are just a few of the maldies of our very ill earth. Like the doctors mentioned above, the experts are in a quandary as to what to do. The media regularly call attention to the earths poor health with such headlinesRead MorePastoral Integration Narrative Reports and Reflection Papers7519 Words   |  31 PagesThought it’s evident that the place was guarded, I felt that the security was somehow loose. Well, maybe because my sense when I saw those who were inside the jail cells, the tatted ones who looked like they had no sleep. The thing that is different from what I imagined though is the aura, it was lighter when I saw some of the detainees who looked happy to see us, especially when we got inside the mess hall and they started singing. It made me realize that maybe, just maybe they wer e changing despiteRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words   |  760 PagesNot Treating It Fairly ..................................................................... 174 Not Accepting the Burden of Proof ............................................................................................. 175 Diverting Attention from the Issue ............................................................................................. 176 Re-defining the Issue ....................................................................................................................Read MoreThe Ballad of the Sad Cafe46714 Words   |  187 Pagesthe two-room houses where the workers live, a few peach trees, a church with two colored windows, and a miserable main street only a hundred yards long. On Saturdays the tenants from the near-by farms come in for a day of talk and trade. Otherwise the town is lonesome, sad, and like a place that is far off and estranged from all other places in the world. The nearest train stop is Society City, and the Greyhound and White Bus Lines use the Forks Falls Road which is three miles away. The winters hereRead MoreRastafarian79520 Words   |  319 PagesRastafari This page intentionally left blank Rastafari From Outcasts to Culture Bearers Ennis Barrington Edmonds 2003 198 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10016 Oxford University Press is a department of the University of Oxford It furthers the Universitys objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide in Oxford New York Auckland Bangkok Buenos Aires Cape Town Chennai Dar es Salaam Delhi Hong Kong Istanbul Karachi Kolkata Kuala

Human Immunodeficiency Virus ( Hiv ) Weakens The Immune...

Benchmark Assignment: Epidemiology Paper Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) weakens the immune system and makes people vulnerable to infections and some types of cancer (HIV/AIDS, 2016). HIV various vague symptoms that are flu like. These symptoms are vague and can last from a few days to several weeks. HIV is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) from one person to another via the mucus membranes (About HIV/AIDS, 2016). HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) if undiagnosed or untreated. There is no cure for HIV or AIDS. Depending on the individual, HIV can take from two to fifteen years to develop into AIDS. Thirty-five million people have lost their lives to HIV, making this a global health issue (HIV/AIDS, 2016). In the United States, approximately 1.2 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2012. Approximately 13% were unaware that they were infected. HIV has decreased 19% in the US between 2005 to 2014 (About HIV/AIDS, 2016). There are many factors th at contribute to HIV, including, the epidemiologic triangle, community nurses assisting in the reduction of HIV, national and world organizations that address HIV with the goal of reducing the spread of HIV. Epidemiologic Triangle There are three things to consider the with transmission of disease, known as the epidemiologic triangle, vulnerable person or host, the setting, and the infectious agent. In considering the host or individual, it is important to include demographics, the person’sShow MoreRelatedHIV and Aids are something that have been a major problem in a large part of the world for many1400 Words   |  6 PagesHIV and Aids are something that have been a major problem in a large part of the world for many years. These viruses have destroyed many families and have taken many people’s lives. There are many different ways for a person to receive the virus. As of today, there is still no cure for these horrible diseases. Until scientists and doctors are able to find a medicine that can cure them, many people will continue to be affected by these diseases. This research paper will break down each virusRead MoreAcquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome ( Aids )1289 Words   |  6 PagesIr refutably, the immune system is ones’ shield against pathogens, ones’ knight in shining armor that confronts intruders. Over time the immune system can deteriorate, and that comes with age and declining health. Other times the immune system fights against itself causing autoimmune diseases that may or may not do irreparable harm. And sometimes, immune deficiency can be acquired. This is the case of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). AIDS is a disease where the immune system depreciates itsRead MoreIn 2015, An Estimate Of 36.7 Million People Was Living1009 Words   |  5 PagesIn 2015, an estimate of 36.7 million people was living with HIV and 1.1 million people died of AIDS-related illnesses (_). AIDS is a severe disease that causes the human’s immune system to become weak. Once the human body’s immune system is damaged, the body is more susceptible for infections. The most terrifying part about this entire ordeal is that scientist have yet to find a permanent cure for HIV/AIDS. As time progresses, scientists have been able to understand the illness even more and createdRead MoreHiv, Or Human Immunodeficiency Virus998 Words   |  4 PagesQuestion 1 HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, attacks the human immune system and greatly weakens the body’s ability to fight foreign invaders and infection. HIV first demanded notice in the early 1980s in the United States in homosexual men displaying illnesses like Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and Kaposi’s sarcoma. The disease was soon observed in IV drug users, hemophiliacs, and blood transfusion recipients, but became publicized as a â€Å"gay disease,† nicknamed by the media as GRID, or Gay-RelatedRead MoreAIDS/HIV Its Effects on Popular Culture Essay1194 Words   |  5 Pagesinnocent health care worker. Some people may sadly consider their lives extinguished upon contraction of the in-curable virus, others will not let the infection rule their lives. However, the infection is no long-er considered a death sentence in contrast to what many may believe. Many people are igno-rant of the virus and continue to believe what was shared many years ago. What is HIV/ AIDS, and what is its history? What is its effects on the body? How can it be, not cured, but treated? Who is atRead MoreHuman Immunodeficiency Virus ( Hiv )1349 Words   |  6 Pages Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retro virus that causes AIDs by infecting the T Helper cells of the body’s immune system. The AIDS virus is the final stages of the HIV virus. HIV is a lentivirus genus, which is a subgroup of the retrovirus that causes the AIDS virus. Even with proper treatment, an infected person has a life expectancy of less than ten years.As the virus weakens the human immune systems, this effectleaves the patient compromised and at risk to opportunistic infectionsRead MoreTreatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Essay1113 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a blood-borne virus typically transmitted via sexual intercourse, shared intravenous drug paraphernalia, and mother-to-child transmission (MTCT), which can occur durin g the birth processor during breastfeeding.† There is no cure for HIV or AIDS but over time different types of medications have been developed that slows down the advancement of the disease. AIDS is a lethal disease that is caused by HIV. HIV destroys the immune system and causes the body to notRead MoreEpidemiology Paper on Hiv800 Words   |  4 PagesPromotion May 16, 2014 HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It can lead to immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS. It is caused by the HIV entering the uninfected body and stats to destroy CD4+cells which are there to help the body fight infection and disease (Webmd.com, 2014). Once you have HIV, you have it for life. More than 1.1 million people in United States alone are living with HIV and 1 out of 6 font even know it. About 50,000 people are infected with HIV each year (Cdc.gov, 2014).Read MoreAids ( Acquired Immune )1202 Words   |  5 PagesAIDS (Acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is a disease caused by a virus called HIV  (Human immunodeficiency virus). This changes the body’s immune system, exposing individuals to infections and diseases. HIV / AIDS is the most threatening pandemic in the whole world. It is one of the infectious diseases that has claimed lives of many individuals all over. This has been propagated by its means of transmission from one individual to the other. For thi s reason, many organizations have come up to lookRead MoreWhat Is Human Immunodeficiency Virus? Essay1560 Words   |  7 PagesWhat is HIV? Human immunodeficiency virus is known to be called HIV, and it is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV weakens a person s strength and ability to fight infections. White blood cells are an important part of the immune system. â€Å"HIV infects and destroys certain white blood cells called CD4+ cells. HIV attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which helps the immune system fight off infections† (Nordqvist). It is commonly contracted through many things but most

Nature Versus Nurture free essay sample

Homosexual is defined as: â€Å"of, relating to, or characterized by a tendency to direct sexual desire toward another of the same sex† (Webster’s Dictionary, 4th ed. , 2003) The nature approach is based on a chance that humans are born with a specific gene that determines if they will be homosexual. In other words, some people are born gay. (Johnson, 2003) The nurture approach tells that people are influenced by their surroundings. In this approach, A nurtured gay person is one that is made gay. (Johnson, 2003) Originally the American Psychological Association (APA) had deemed homosexuality a mental disease. The debate now- a-days revolve around if sexuality is based on nature, a person’s environment, or based on nurture, a person’s upbringing. Alfred Kinsey pioneered one of the earliest experiments in the 1930s. Kinsey’s research resulted in little besides putting the word homosexual into the common language. Karen Hooker completed the first psychological test in 1957. We will write a custom essay sample on Nature Versus Nurture or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The research was put together to investigate the relationship between homosexuality, psychological development, and illness. The subjects were given three tests, the Rorschach, TAT, and MAPS. She determined that there was no link between social determinism of sexuality. As an outcome of Hooker’s research, the APA released a statement in 1975 saying that homosexuality was not a mental disorder. According to a recent brochure from the APA, they have â€Å"called on psychologists to take the lead in removing the stigma of mental illness that has long been associated with lesbian, gay, and bisexual orientations. † (American Psychological Association 2008 ) D. F. Swaab organized the next major research experiment on post-mortem brains. â€Å"Swaab found in his post-mortem examination of homosexual males’ brains that a portion of the hypothalamus of the brain was structurally different than a heterosexual brain. The hypothalamus is the portion of the human brain directly related to sexual drive and function. (Johnson, 2003). The part of the brain called the hypothalamus includes a portion called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN was two times larger in heterosexual males than their homosexual counterpart. About the same time, scientist Laura Allen had a similar outcome with her research. Both Swaab’s and Allen’s conclusion became a platform for the biological argument on homosexuality. Simon LeVay conducted an experiment based on the hypothalamus in 1991. LeVay also based his results on a post-mortem examination of the brain; however his tests were conducted on people that died of AIDS related illnesses. His research concluded that the difference in anatomy was not a result of nature or nurture, but a result of prenatal cerebral development and structural differentiation. Social behaviorists are not sold on the idea that homosexuality is a result of biological influences; most social theorists take childhood components as the largest leading factor to homosexuality. Most psychoanalytic theories emphasize the aspect of parental and family structure, not society. Behaviorists concluded that some gender and sexual differences result from the roles by family and friends during childhood. There was no evidence that supported that homosexual children were brought up differently than a heterosexual child. Social theorist David Halperin believed in Planophysical theory. This concept thought that homosexuals were mutants. His theory is discredited by a large number in the psychological community. His theory only provided results, not a cause. He failed to show any scientific results. At the same time, another social theorist Jean Foucault believed that homosexuality was a mental disorder, and then had evolved into a species resulting in the term homosexual. There are three differences in the two theories. Foucault concluded that the depth of desire was nothing more than superficial preferences. Halperin said that homosexuality is more of a psychological disorder than sexual preference. Foucault did not segregate people into different classes. Halperin divided people into heterosexuals, gay men, and lesbians. The last difference was that Halperin saw homosexuals all as equals. Foucault believed that homosexuality was always based on unfair differences in age, race, education, and social status. Dean Hamer conducted a study examining genetics called the linkage study. He and a group of scientists discovered characteristics that passed from generation to generation in a family. According to this study, the group of doctors believed homosexuality was inherited. In July 1993, the prestigious research journal Science published a study by Dean Hamer which claims that there might be a gene for homosexuality. Research seemed to be on the verge of proving that homosexuality is innate, genetic, and therefore unchangeable a normal variant of human nature. Is there a Gay Gene? , n. d. , para. 4) Scientists are still conducting research to determine what causes homosexuality. The latest research develops around a theory that all developing fetuses begin as females. Other studies evolve around health issues of the mother during pregnancy and food borne ailments. There may never be a answer to what causes homosexuality.

Topic American History

Topic: American History- Winthrop, Hutchinson Political Morality In We Essay topic: American History- Winthrop, HutchinsonPolitical MoralityIn Websters dictionary, morality is defined as principlesof right and wrong in conduct; ethics. The principles ofmorality have countless times evolved over the ages. In earliertimes, death was an easy penalty for many crimes. These crimestoday are considered minor and are penalized with a slap on thehand. Is this considered wrong? Who is the correct authority toconsult on what is right or wrong? In todays society, two majorfactors concern how the way members of society act and behave.The first is our national government. Members of our government in positions of authority decideeverything in our lives in the form of laws which determine ourbehavior. One of the most important documents written by ourgovernment is the Declaration of Independence. The monarchy wastaking away power from the colonists and putting more demands on.In return, the colonists declared their freedom from theirtyrant. We will write a custom essay on Topic: American History- Winthrop, Hutchinson Political Morality In We specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now In this document, it states, All men are created equal;that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienablerights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit ofhappiness. The great men who wrote this down had a strong senseof morals. They believed that men were given rights by God thatno one could take away. This is essential to the issue ofmorality because it determines the rights- that are agreed uponall- are wrong. This brings us to religion. Religion is a major contributorto how we think and act because it mirrors our beliefs in what wehold as right or wrong. An example of this is the native tribesof africa and South America where a number of tribes practicecannibalism. While this is considered a sin in most christianreligions, the tribes have evolved into cannibalism as a way tosurvive in life and have no objections to their eating habits. The problem arises when the line between government and religionis crossed. While religion does not have to power to punish onephysically, but rather soulfully of one has sinned. Thegovernment has the power to sentence punishment, yet should haveno power concerning God.Many different religions have evolved all over the world andin the process, have people have been prosecuted in their faith. The first settlers in the new world came here to avoidprosecution from the powerful church/government of that time.Specifically, the Church of England headed by the king. Puritanleaders led their followers to a place where they could expresstheir religion with no fear of other faiths. One such leader wasJohn Winthrop. John Winthrop was a powerful Puritan governor in the colonyof Massachusetts Bay. He believed that this was a calling fromGod for him to lead the new religious experiment-a covenant withGod to built a model for mankind. We shall be a city upon thehill. declared Winthrop. As governor Winthrop held considerablepower. He distrusted the commoners and thought democracy was themeanest and worst forms of government. Anyone who broughttrouble or had indifferent thought were severely punished tosave their soul. As one of his extensions of his powers hebanished Roger Williams, a popular Salem minister with radicalideas and an unrestrained tongue, and Mistress Anne Hutchinson, Astrong willed women who challenged the authority of the clergy bystating the truly saved need not bother to obey the laws of Godor man. Several problems arise throughout this banishment. I am for a democratic society in which one can express his or herthoughts without the fear of prosecution. They did not have theluxury of this. The need for the expressment of ideas isessential for a growing environment. If no growth is made, thenexpansion of the community is halted to a standstill. The limitof new ideas must have a point, though. In recent news, theUnabomber has issued a ultimanium with his manuscript. In thepast, such a request would have been rediculous. .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 , .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .postImageUrl , .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 , .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2:hover , .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2:visited , .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2:active { border:0!important; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2:active , .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2 .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u494fc1792dc4b18edf5ba24677b031b2:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Meaning Of Life Essay In hismanuscript he expresses his view on the evils of technology.While a citizen is entitled to free speech and press, threateningmurder is not such an option. There must be limits set. Incolonial times these limitations were set by John Winthrop. Totalobedience was required and disobedience was not tolerated;therefore, Williams and Hutchinson were banished. I understandthe reasoning behind his motives, but his limits were set toolow. There was no room for free speech and thinking.Morals today have been declining and declining. Asindependant thoughts have now been tolerated, so have thoughtsagainst basic humane rights. More today than any other periodmurders and rapists are being convicted and released from jail.Attendance at churches pail considerably from the height of itspopularity. The people have better things to do and church isjust not the thing to do these days. The government is a mess ofbureaucracy and misuse of power. In two words-Bob Packwood. Thenational deficit is at trillions and shows no signs ofimprovement. Money is spent in needless ways with lobbyistsbribing officials for personal causes that have no implicationswith the common people. The cause of representing the commonpeople is practically non-existent. These are just some of theexamples of how the morals in todays society have declined inthe cause of personal rights.

Everything You Need to Know About Writing Great Reviews

Everything You Need to Know About Writing Great Reviews Does a career spent reviewing movies, music, books, TV shows, or restaurants seem like nirvana to you? Then you’re a born critic. But writing great reviews is an art, one that few have mastered. Here are some tips: Know Your Subject Too many beginning critics are eager to write but know little about their topic. If you want to write reviews that carry some authority, then you need to learn everything you can. Want to be the next Roger Ebert? Take college courses on the history of film, read as many books as you can and, of course, watch lots of movies. The same goes for any topic. Some believe that in order to be a truly good film critic you must have worked as a director, or that in order to review music you must have been a professional musician. That kind of experience wouldn’t hurt, but it’s more important to be a well-informed layman. Read Other Critics Just as an aspiring novelist reads the great writers, a good critic should read accomplished reviewers, whether it’s the aforementioned Ebert or Pauline Kael on film, Ruth Reichl on food, or Michiko Kakutani on books. Read their reviews, analyze what they do, and learn from them. Don’t Be Afraid to Have Strong Opinions Great critics all have strong opinions. But newbies who aren’t confident in their views often write wishy-washy reviews with sentences like â€Å"I sort of enjoyed this† or â€Å"that was okay, though not great.† They’re afraid to take a strong stand for fear of being challenged. But there’s nothing more boring than a hemming-and-hawing review. So decide what you think and state it in no uncertain terms. Avoid â€Å"I† and â€Å"In My Opinion† Too many critics pepper reviews with phrases like â€Å"I think† or â€Å"In my opinion.† Again, this is often done by novice critics afraid of writing declarative sentences. Such phrases are unnecessary; your reader understands that it’s your opinion you’re conveying. Give Background The critic’s analysis is the centerpiece of any review, but that’s not much use to readers if she doesn’t provide enough background information. So if you’re reviewing a movie, outline the plot but also discuss the director and his previous films, the actors, and perhaps even the screenwriter. Critiquing a restaurant? When did it open, who owns it and who’s the head chef? An art exhibit? Tell us a little about the artist, her influences, and previous works. Don’t Spoil the Ending There’s nothing readers hate more than a film critic who gives away the ending to the latest blockbuster. So yes, give plenty of background information, but dont give away the ending. Know Your Audience Whether you’re writing for a magazine aimed at intellectuals or a mass-market publication for average folks, keep your target audience in mind. So if you’re reviewing a film for a publication aimed at cineastes, you can wax rhapsodic about the Italian neo-realists or the French New Wave. If you’re writing for a wider audience, such references might not mean much. That’s not to say you can’t educate your readers in the course of a review. But remember – even the most knowledgeable critic won’t succeed if he bores his readers to tears.

US and Mexico Border Fence Pros and Cons

US and Mexico Border Fence Pros and Cons The southern border of the United States shared with Mexico spans almost 2,000 miles. Walls, fences, and virtual walls of sensors and cameras monitored by the U.S. Border Patrol are already built along one-third of the border (approximately 670 miles) to secure the border and cut down on illegal immigration. Americans are split on the border barrier issue. While most people are in favor of increasing the security of the borders, others are concerned that the negative impacts do not outweigh the benefits. The U.S. government views the Mexican border as an important part of its overall homeland security initiative. Cost of the Border Barrier The price tag currently sits at $7 billion for border fencing and related infrastructure like pedestrian and vehicle fencing with lifetime maintenance costs expected to exceed $50 billion. The Trump Administration and Mexican Border Enhancement As a major part of his platform during the 2016 presidential campaign, President Donald Trump called for the construction of a much larger, fortified wall along the entire 2,000-mile-long Mexico–United States border, claiming Mexico would pay for its construction, which he estimated at $8 to $12 billion. Other estimates brought the cost of the wall closer to $15 to $25 billion. On January 25, 2017, the Trump administration signed a Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements Executive Order to commence the building of the border wall. In response, Mexican President Enrique Peà ±a Nieto said his country would not pay for the wall under any circumstances and canceled a scheduled meeting with Trump at the White House, seemingly straining relations between the two presidents. With the possibility of Mexico paying for any part of the wall  apparently off the table, the Trump administration used existing funds to begin construction of a small section of the new wall, along with improvements to existing sections of the wall in early March 2018. On March 23, 2018, President Trump signed an omnibus government spending bill dedicating $1.6 billion to the construction of the remainder of the wall. As he signed the bill, Trump referred to the $1.6 billion as â€Å"an initial down payment† on the estimated nearly $10 billion needed to fence the entire border. The funds  will pay for construction of about 25 miles (40 kilometers) of a new wall along levees in the Texas Rio Grande Valley, as well as repair and upgrades to existing walls and anti-vehicle devices.   The Great 2019 Border Wall Government Shutdown The issue of the border barrier, and especially the politics behind it, escalated dramatically in January 2019, when Congress refused to include $5.7 billion requested by President Trump for the construction of steel border fencing in a bill funding the operations of nine of the 15 federal executive branch agencies. On December 22, 2019, the resulting stalemate between the White House and the now Democrat-controlled House resulted in what, by January 12, had become the longest lasting government shutdown in U.S. history. On January 8, President Trump, calling the situation on the Mexican border a â€Å"humanitarian crisis,† threatened to declare a national emergency, allowing him to go around Congress by ordering the use of already allocated funds for construction of the border barrier. In a letter to Congress, the White House Office of Management and Budget estimate that the funds requested by President Trump would allow for the construction of about 234 miles of steel fencing to be added to what was by then the 580 miles of barrier already in place at a cost of around $24.4 million per mile, exclusive of ongoing maintenance. While the resulting 814 miles of barrier  fencing would leave approximately 1,140 miles of the 1,954-mile long border still free of barriers, the Department of Homeland Security had earlier stated that not all of the remaining border needed to be fenced. Border Patrol officials suggested that the inherent dangers of trying to cross rugged, desolate desert areas on foot made fencing unnecessary. On January 19, Democrats rejected another immigration reform and border security package offered by President Trump, refusing to negotiate until and unless he ended the government shutdown. On February 15, 2019, President Trump signed a compromise Homeland Security spending bill providing $1.375 billion for 55 miles of new border fencing. The same day, he made good on his threat to declare a national emergency to build the wall. Under the terms of the emergency proclamation, $3.5 billion was redirected from the Defense Department’s military construction budget to the construction of new border wall. In addition, he used executive orders to redirect another $3.1 billion from the Departments of Defense and Treasury’s drug interdiction programs to wall building. White House officials said the combined money would pay for at least 234 miles â€Å"of new physical barrier† along the border. While no further details were provided, President Trump stated in a Twitter post on March 8, 2019, that, â€Å"The Wall is being built and is well under construction.† History of the Border Barrier In 1924, Congress created the U.S. Border Patrol. Illegal immigration increased in the late 1970s, but it was in the 1990s when drug trafficking and illegal immigration had a major uptick and concerns about the nations security became an important issue. Border Control agents and the military succeeded in reducing the number of smugglers and illegal crossings for a period of time, but once the military left, activity again increased. After the September 11 terrorist attacks in the U.S., homeland security was again a priority. Many ideas were tossed around during the next few years on what could be done to permanently secure the border. And, in 2006, the Secure Fence Act was passed to build 700 miles of double-reinforced security fencing in areas along the border prone to drug trafficking and illegal immigration. President Bush also deployed 6,000 National Guardsmen to the Mexico border to assist with border control. Reasons for the Border Barrier Historically, policing borders has been integral to the preservation of nations around the globe for centuries. The construction of a barrier to safeguard American citizens from illegal activities is considered by some to be in the  best interest of the nation.  The pros of a border barrier include overall homeland security, the cost of lost tax revenue and strain on government resources and the past successes of border enforcement. Rising Cost of Illegal Immigration Illegal immigration  is estimated to cost the United States millions of dollars, and according to Trump, $113 billion a year in lost income tax revenue. Illegal immigration is considered a strain on government spending by overburdening social welfare, health, and education programs. Border Enforcement Past Success The use of physical barriers and high-tech surveillance equipment increases the probability of apprehension and have shown some success. Arizona has been the epicenter of crossings by illegal immigrants for several years. In one year, authorities apprehended 8,600 people trying to enter the U.S. illegally in the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range used for air-to-ground bombing practice by Air Force pilots. The number of people caught crossing San Diegos border illegally has also dropped dramatically. In the early 1990s, about 600,000 people attempted to cross the border illegally. After the construction of a fence and increased  border patrols,  that number dropped to 39,000 in 2015. Reasons Against the Border Barrier The question of the effectiveness of a physical barrier that has workarounds is a significant concern to those opposed to a border barrier. The barrier has been criticized for being easy to get around. Some methods include digging under it, sometimes using complex tunnel systems, climbing the fence and using wire cutters to remove barbed-wire or locating and digging holes in vulnerable sections of the border. Many people have also traveled by boat through the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Coast or fly in and overstay their visas. There are other concerns such as the message it sends to our neighbors and the rest of the world and the human toll of crossing the border. In addition, a border wall affects wildlife on both sides, fragmenting the habitat and disrupting essential animal migration patterns.   Message to the World A segment of the American population feels that the United States should send a message of freedom and hope to those seeking a better way of life instead of sending a keep out message at our border. It is suggested that the answer does not lie in barriers; it entails  comprehensive immigration reform, which means these immigration issues need fixing, instead of building fences, which are as effective as putting a bandage on a gaping wound. In addition, a border barrier divides the land of three indigenous nations. Human Toll on Crossing the Border Barriers wont stop people from wanting a better life. And in some cases, theyre willing to pay the highest price for the opportunity. People smugglers, called coyotes, charge astronomical fees for passage. When smuggling costs rise, it becomes less cost-effective for individuals to travel back and forth for seasonal work, so they remain in the U.S. Now the whole family must make the trip to keep everyone together. Children, infants and the elderly attempt to cross. The conditions are extreme and some people will go for days without food or water. According to the Human Rights National Commission of Mexico and the American Civil Liberties Union, almost 5,000 people have died attempting to crossing the border between 1994 and 2007. Environmental Impact Most environmentalists oppose the border barrier. Physical barriers hinder migrating wildlife, and plans show the fence will fragment wildlife refuges and private sanctuaries. Conservation groups are appalled that the Department of Homeland Security is bypassing dozens of environmental and land-management laws in order to build the border fence. More than 30 laws are being waived, including the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act. Updated by Robert Longley

Decision Making using Critical Thinking Techniques Part 2 Essay

Decision Making using Critical Thinking Techniques Part 2 - Essay Example Department of Energy, 2001). The decision-making technique that will be used in this proposal will be the plus, minus and interesting technique (PMI). In using the PMI technique, it would be useful to make a three column table with the headings plus, minus and interesting (Mind Tools Ltd., n.d.). Under the plus column, one has to write all the positive aspects of the alternative. On the minus column, all the negative effects will be listed down. In the interesting column, the implications and possible outcomes, areas of uncertainty and areas which one thinks as either good or bad will be included. There are several alternatives that one can choose from with regards to increasing the presence of the company. To address the expectation of government on the company with regards to giving support to the social needs of the people of Kava, one alternative is to design a health program for the coffee farmers and their families. To illustrate the PMI technique, a PMI Table is presented below. Another alternative that one would like to propose and which will be evaluated using the PMI technique is to put up a store where there are plenty of foreigners residing or working because they are known to be coffee drinkers, such as the French and Americans. The PMI Table for this alternative is shown below. After using the PMI technique and applying it in all the alternatives open to the company, one can decide on the best decision to be made, which will result in the achievement of their goal of increasing their presence in Kava. In this case, one does not have to choose only one alternative; it could be a combination of alternatives whose benefits more than outweigh the negative effects of the options available. One can see that the steps utilized in making the PMI tables are very useful indeed in coming up with the strategies that the company can implement to increase their presence in Kava. Identifying the pros,

Addiction Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Addiction - Assignment Example Relapse can be handled in case the client has established that there is a clear plan to deal with the situation; hence, making it easier to manage after it has happened. In the case of a slip, there is a recurrence of behavior where the individual attempts to change but keep on engaging in problem behavior (Lowinson, 2005). Therefore, it is clear that a slip is less serious than a The prevalence of men relapse is more than that of women this is because staying sober requires that a person has outside support where in the case of women they are likely to seek group counseling. Additionally, people who are isolated by the addiction process need contact from other in order to give them moral support. By so doing, they help them with drug or alcohol relapse prevention plans, as well as, reducing stress and depression as they associate with other people. It has been established when individuals who have addiction issues develop a friendship with people who do not encourage their behavior they avoid relapsing (Marlatt & Donovan, 2008). Additionally, having an anonymous source of communication and support plays a vital role in ensuring that the individual has a person to encourage him or her in changing their behavior. Various warning signs that help in knowing that a person has relapsed. They include sudden relapse where there are emotional triggers, physical change and social situations where an individual withdraws from their friends and family. A person may also relapse is they have lost a loved one in a tragic death or illness.

Learning Team Deliverable Essay Example for Free

Learning Team Deliverable Essay Measuring Domestic Output and National Income – Ch. 24 Topics comfortable Kris is comfortable with the concept of gross domestic product (GDP) as it is the dollar value of goods and services in a country during a set period. Walter is comfortable with the GDP concept and understands that is the economic thermometer of the country’s current financial status. Topics Struggle Kris still has to wrap his head around nominal GDP and real GDP when it comes to the GDP Price Index. So calculating real GDP is dividing nominal GDP by the price index. What is the difference between real GDP and nominal GDP? Walter also struggles with the concept of nominal GDP, and how it interacts with inflation. If GDP goes up and inflation goes down†¦it seems to be my understanding of the formula for calculating the nominal GDP that is holding me back. Application of topic GDP is fluctuates with whatever final good or service is bought by a customer. Living through life affects the GDP. If the GDP declines for too long, economists normally label the economy as being in a recession. Business Cycles, Unemployment and Inflation – Ch. 26 Topics comfortable Kris is comfortable with the different business cycles and measurement of unemployment. These items also affect the GDP. Walter is comfortable with the different symptoms of a recession, a period of decline lasting more than six months in total output. Of which high unemployment rates is another tell of a recession. Topics struggle Kris struggles with the concept of inflation and how it affects money today compared to money values in the past. Walter is struggling with defining a recession’s severity. Two examples given were the Great Depression and the recent recession in the last few years, Is the intensity or length of time that the recession lasts that makes one more severe than the other? Application of topic The business cycle is very familiar in Kris’ organization as the company goes through yearly contractions and expansions based on the demand from consumers in the market. The business cycle is also something Walter is familiar with in the hotel industry. The hotel industry goes up and done depending the current state of the economy. The Aggregate Expenditure Model – Ch. 28 Topics comfortable Kris is comfortable with the concepts of equilibrium GDP and disequilibrium GDP. Equilibrium is the point where goods produced equals goods purchased. Disequilibrium is any situation where goods produced are greater than goods purchased and vice versa. Walter is comfortable with the concept of GDP equilibrium, The basic premise of this equilibrium being that supply meets demand. Topics struggle Kris did not struggle with any concepts in the chapter, as they were all straightforward and easy to understand. Walter struggled with the concept of disequilibrium and how often, or what circumstances causes this to happen. I assume it is the opposite of the equilibrium and that demand supply exceeds demand but do not feel comfortable enough with the concept to say for sure. Application of topic As such, Kris cannot think of a time where there was equilibrium GDP. In reality, consumer tastes vary and it would be difficult to reach equilibrium Walter thinks that when the economy is doing well the equilibrium can be met because consumers are finically settled to continue purchasing products and business continue to produce according to demand. Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply – Ch. 29 Topics comfortable Kris is comfortable with aggregate demand in which it shows the real GDP that consumers desire to purchase at different price levels. Aggregate supply shows the relationship between the price level and the output of producers. Walter is comfortable with the concept of aggregate demand, and how consumer spending and government investments play into that calculation. As prices increases, consumer demand decreases and vice versa. Topics struggle Kris did not struggle with any concepts in this chapter. Walter struggled with understanding why aggregate supply is not affected by price levels. Application of topic Supply and demand is central to the market and economics in general. Consumer tastes always affect supply and demand. When the economy is bad and underemployment is high the demand for hig priced products decreases. Fiscal Policy, Deficits, and Debt – Ch. 30 Topics comfortable Kris is comfortable with fiscal policy, deficits, and debt as it affects his organization. Market rates are affected by the fiscal policy of the government. More or less spending affects the company’s contraction or expansion. Walter is comfortable with the concept that the fiscal debt and deficit show the governments current financial state. Topics struggle Kris struggles with the concept of automatic or built-in stabilizers. As the text states that a built-in stabilizer is something that increases the government’s budget, what kind of items constitute as a built-in stabilizer? Walter did not struggle with any of the general concepts in chapter 30. Application of topic The budget deficit affects all citizens as the government does not wisely use the tax payer’s funds properly. There is a lot of waste that keep the  government in debt. Walter notes that when the fiscal debt is higher so are taxes and fines. The misspending of the government is then the burden of the people.

Values Of Russian Education Essay -- Philosophy Philosophical Essays

Values Of Russian Education ABSTRACT: The paper discloses changes in Russian education from a prospective which focuses on the culturology of education (Krylova 1994, 1995, 1996), a new trend in theories of education that is being constructed upon the established turf of philosophy of education. The culturology of education includes inquiry concerning both cultural values and pedagogical methodologies. It attempts to explain the whole complex of cultural, sociocultural, and multicultural problems in education with reference to principles drawn from both educational theory, and cultural anthropology and philosophy. I argue that the solution to many educational problems will become possible when the educator or researcher utilizes the culturological approach in effective ways. The modification of practical and theoretical values in a given system of education is the best gauge of positive change and innovation in education. But as known, there are different kinds of values. For example there are value-myths and value-ideals, enduring and time honored values and and newly articularted values, invariable and variable values, and finally values based in super-personal, personal and interpersonal spheres of endeavor. The real values of education (and philosophy of education, too) have changed in the last years to a considerable extent. The Law of RF (On Education, at July, 10, 1992) directs educators to repect the following principles: education needs to be "humanist" in nature, entailing respect for human individuals; education needs to uplift values common to all humankind; there needs to be a unity of federal cultural and educational space; there needs to be protection for national cultures and regional traditions, so tha... ...not emphasize. The time has now come for culturology to develop their ideas and the practical norms that will change education. References Asmolov A. (1996). Cultural-historical psychology and constructing of the worlds. (Russ). Moscow. Haberman, M. (1991). Can cultural awareness be taught in teacher education programs? In: Teaching Education, N.4, 25-32. Krylova, N. (1996). The Introduction into culturological problems of education. In: New Educational Values: Cultural and Multicultural Environment of Schools (Moscow). N.4, 132-152. Ladson-Billings, G. (1995). Toward a Theory of Culturally Relevant Pedagogy. In: American Educational Journal. V32, N.3, 465-491. Pai, Y. (1990).Cultural foundations of education. Columbus, OH: Merrill Publishing Company. Rozin V. (1994). Psychology and cultural development of the Man. (Russ). Moscow, Russ.Open Univ.

Genetically Modified Food and Crops Essay

Abstract Since the 1980’s scientists have been altering crops, including some of the food we eat (Fairly & Gaskins, 2000). Genetically modified food has always been a concern for many people. I find the concerns to be unwarranted because there has never been a negative health report due to the fact of consuming GM foods. Biotechnology gives us the best means for solving the world’s food shortage now and in the future. Genetically modified crop plants are now grown on nearly 150 million acres in the United States alone, helping farmers to increase yields, reduce pesticide spraying, and save topsoil (Conko & Miller, 2011). What are we actually eating? Looking at ingredients on the back of a product was almost considered out of the ordinary ten to fifteen years ago. But now it is one of the most important factors in the decision on whether or not a consumer will buy the product. In all the research I conducted there was never a proven harmful effect from genetic engineering. However, the benefits are scientifically proven which gives genetically modified crops the advantage over traditional farming. The proposed ideas and research by scientist show that a lot more can be done with GM food other than eating it. Globalization of GM crops is becoming apparent as well as GM crop commercialization. _Keywords: GM Food, GM Crops, Genetically engineered crops, Biotechnology, GM organisms. _ â€Å"Genetically modified organisms can be defined as organisms in which the genetic material (DNA) has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally. The technology is often called â€Å"biotechnology† and it allows selected individual genes to be transferred from one organism into another† (World Health Organization, 2002). For more than twenty years of scientific, humanitarian, and financial success genetic engineering has been applied to agriculture. This has been accomplished without injury to a single person or damage to the ecosystem. However, activists are still fighting the use of genetically modified crops (Conko & Miller 2011). Millions of people around the world suffer from malnutrition and with the steep projected increase of our world’s population in the next fifty years a change needs to be made. Genetically modified crops increase yield, nutrition and uses fewer pesticides all without proven negative effects. GM crops and all its benefits make it the gateway for the world’s agriculture success. Genetically modified crops are becoming the building blocks for agriculture advancements. Scientists are continually working to create more benefits for consumers as well as farmers. The main concern of GM foods is negative health risks however, they are actually more beneficial. GM foods have longer shelf life, contain higher nutritional value and are safer to eat. For example, â€Å"GM corn has lower fungal toxin content then non-GM corn, and farmers typically produce GM crops using fewer pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers† (Tyson, 2001). By drastically reducing the use of chemicals on the plants it provides a major improvement for the consumer’s safety and nourishment. Because scientists slightly tweak the DNA of the plants with other genes it is possible that food allergens may end up in GM products. Steve Taylor, a scientists at the University of Nebraska states that, â€Å"the food-allergy threat is small because food engineers now avoid using genes from nuts and other common food allergens. The benefits of genetic engineering justify the risk† (Fairley & Gaskins 2000). Products from biotechnology are no less safe than traditionally bred crops. According to Dr. Prakash, â€Å"genetically improved products are subjected to intensive testing, while conventional varieties have never been subjected to any such regulation for food safety or environmental impact† (Prakash, 2000). Every GM food that is currently available on the international market has already passed risk assessments and is not likely to pose a risk for the consumers. No effects have been shown and GM foods will continue to be regulated in more and more countries (World Health Organization, 2002). GM crops are never expected to present a health risk and therefore should reassure government officials worldwide in the use of this technology. Another concern of GM technology is the effect it has on the environment. The environmental risks of biotechnology are also unidentified just like the health trepidations. No scientific evidence proves that GM crops are harmful to the environment. â€Å"U. S. officials pointed out that scientists in Europe had been unable to find any evidence of added risk to human health or the environment from any GM crop variety developed to date. † In fact, none of the studies by Europe found any scientific evidence of added harm to humans or the environment (Paarlberg, 2003). GM engineering will actually help the environment rather than harm it. In the U. S. alone farmers annually administer more than nine hundred seventy million tons of insect and plant killers. Now GM crops have the ability of containing their own insect and plant killing gene which means the farmers can use fewer chemicals (Tyson, 2001). To ensure that the environment is remaining safe, risk assessments are conducted for the GM product as well as the area in which the crop will grow (World Health Organization, 2002). Furthermore, the United Nations Environment Program has used funding for developing countries to implement biosafety regulations for GM crops. The UNEP wants these regulations implemented before any crop is planted no matter the cost or delay (Paarlberg, 2003). Since 2011, The U. S. Department of Agriculture has approved seventy four different GM crops. In each case the crops data was reviewed for several years and each â€Å"concluded that they will have no significant environmental impact† (Conko & Miller 2011). These precautionary measures toward genetically modified crops allow the government to regulate farming actions and safeguard the environment. The initial reason GM organisms were created was to improve crop production. â€Å"The GM crops currently on the market are mainly aimed at an increased level of crop protection through the introduction of resistance against plant diseases caused by insects or viruses or through increased tolerance towards herbicides† (Tyson, 2001). Producers are getting a lot more for a lot less which translates to products with lower prices. The improved production of crops and technology accounts for the lowered costs and have â€Å"forced tremendous competition in the herbicide and insecticide markets† (Prakash, 2000). This also helps traditional farmers because it now allows them to buy these products at a cheaper cost. In fifty years the world population could exceed eleven billion people unfortunately, the current food supply is not expanding at the same rate. Because of this, GM crops need to expand and gain popularity over traditional farming. Global GM crop farming in 1999 covered about one hundred million acres (Tyson, 2001). Now, genetically modified crop plants are grown on nearly one hundred fifty million acres in the United States alone (Conko & Miller 2011). These statistics show that GM crop farming is rapidly expanding and the benefits are obvious. Biotechnology and its productivity give us the best chance to safely solve the food needs of today and the future. Poor farmers in tropical countries face problems such as crop pests, drought and low soil fertility (Paarlberg, 2003). These are the people who annually struggle to produce enough food for their families. Bugs, drought and disease destroy many acres of farmland every year. Fortunately scientists are creating GM crops with built in resistance to insects and diseases. GM Crops are also being developed that can grow in deserts or near salt water which allows more area for farming (Fairley & Gaskins, 2011). Because GM crops are now being built in with these resistances farmers won’t experience huge financial setbacks caused by pests killing their plants. Since the majority of malnutrition people in the world live in developing countries this opens up the opportunity for them to increase crop yield and provide enough food for everyone. Also, in developing countries people often have to survive off a single staple that own its own doesn’t supply sufficient amounts of nutrients. Food scientist hope to solve this problem by creating crops equipped with vitamins and minerals. According to Tyson, â€Å"one of the most promising is â€Å"golden rice,† which can stimulate our bodies to generate vitamin A. In the developing world, vitamin-A deficiency kills two million children each year† (Tyson, 2001). A development through GM foods may be able to save two million people which would be a life changing breakthrough. Scientists are also trying to perfect â€Å"eatable vaccines. † They are genetically adding vaccines to tomatoes and bananas, since traditional vaccines are expensive to manufacture and require specialized storage. â€Å"Eatable vaccines,† will be easier to transport, store, and administer in third world countries (Tyson, 2001). Biotechnology holds unlimited potential for areas of the world where poverty and poor agricultural conditions make farming challenging. The U. S. needs to ensure the people of these countries that GM food is safe and will be nothing but beneficial to their people. Genetic engineering is a crucial factor in agricultural productivity and if it continues to safely expand it could help meet the problematic food challenges that have already started. Genetic engineering holds great possibilities that could change the world. Simply peeling back a banana infused with antibiotics could be the next breakthrough science has to offer. Biotechnology continues to show safety is not an issue. GM farmers are now administering fewer chemicals on their crops. This reduces the amount of air pollution and water contamination in the environment. Genetic modifications were being made since farming started. Farmers always crossed bred the most successful plants year to year and without any concerns from the public. Today, scientist have a better understanding of how genetic modifications work making it safer for the consumers. However, government regulations are still implemented just for precautionary purposes. The United States is fortunate enough to grow numerous varieties of crops and also have the ability to choose the method of how they are grown. Unfortunately, not every country has these advantages. Genetically modified products allow these developing nations to grow crops at a more productive rate. Commercialization of genetically modified agriculture needs to be strictly monitored to make sure regulations are followed. Over industrialization of farming today is negatively viewed therefore making it essential that a golden mean is set for genetically modified products. BIBLIOGRAPHY: Fairley, P. , & Gaskins, P. (2000). Food Fight!. _Scholastic Choices_, _15_(8), 16. CONKO, G. , & MILLER, H. I. (2011). The Rush to Condemn Genetically Modified Crops. _Policy Review_, (165), 69-82. World Health Orginization.(2002). Retrieved from website: http://www. who. int/foodsafety/publications/biotech/20questions/en/index. html Tyson, P. T. (2001, April 12). _Harvest of fear_. Retrieved from http://www. pbs. org/wgbh/harvest/exist/ Prakash, C. (2000). Genetically engineered crops can feed the world!. Retrieved from http://www. 21stcenturysciencetech. com/articles/biotech. html Paarlberg, R. L. (2003). Reinvigorating genetically modified crops. _Issues in Science and Technology, 19_(3), 86-92. Retrieved from http://ezproxy. sju. edu/login? url=http://search. proquest. com/docview/195920735? accountid=14071.

Size 0 Ban

Jenny’s 2nd rebuttal (: (2 minutes) Size zero In our society, image is everything. We strive for what is considered to be the â€Å"ideal appearance†. For the modern generation, fashion is uppermost. For some girls their ambition is to become â€Å"size zero†. We want or need to show we are following the latest fashion trends. However, recent news reports indicate that size zero models are so obsessed with their size that they become anorexic. Being fascinated by the fashion industry myself, it is important to explore the question: â€Å"Why should or should not size zero models be allowed to walk on the catwalk? Size zero models should not be allowed on the catwalk. They are a bad influence on teenage girls who desire to look like these size zero â€Å"role† models. Young girls who attempt a â€Å"zero† do not develop as they should. They are more likely to have severe health concerns later on in life. Also Karl Largerfield from Chanel explained t hat the fashion industry only used skinny models becasue they were literally meant to be moving mannequins/hangers so that the clothes would be seen at their minimum potential.But the media twisted things. A further argument that we frequently encounter, is that size zero puts pressure on young women who are overweight. By comparing themselves to â€Å"zeros† young women only achieve low self-esteem. They are made to think they are unattractive. They go through the stress of unsafe cosmetic surgeries such as tummy tucks, to appear like fashion icons. Celebrity nutritionist Dr Adam Carey says that, â€Å"I think the current vogue is disgusting. I think it is very unhealthy. It is also argued that many girls who are wanting to become models in the future, put themselves through a lot of anxiety to be slim, so they get accepted in the fashion industry. These girls attempt to try to be lean by starving themselves which can result in eating disorders. Some people believe that siz e zero models should not be banned because they have the same right as everyone else to become a model. However, if everyone did have the right to become a model, then the runways would be filled with a wide variety of different sized girls, not just the same tiny girls over and over again.You can't see what's horrible about only taking models who are underweight? And it's a lot different to ask for brunette models only: What about the size 5 models who want to be in this organization? They would have to lose weight, and we all know the dire consequences that can arise out of this. It's disgusting that a requirement they have is to be amongst the skinniest of the skinniest. It's quite obvious that girls are needing to become smaller and smaller for the modeling industry. Just imagine what it's gonna be like for girls in the future.

Battle of Ligny During the Napoleonic Wars

Battle of Ligny During the Napoleonic Wars The Battle of Ligny was fought on June 16, 1815, during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). Heres a summary of the event. Battle of Ligney Background Having crowned himself Emperor of the French in 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte embarked on a decade of campaigning which saw him win victories at places such as Austerlitz, Wagram, and Borodino. Finally defeated and forced to abdicate in April 1814, he accepted exile on Elba under the terms of the Treaty of Fontainebleau. In the wake of Napoleons defeat, the European powers convened the Congress of Vienna to outline the postwar world. Unhappy in exile, Napoleon escaped and landed in France on March 1, 1815. Marching to Paris, he built an army as he traveled with soldiers flocking to his banner. Declared an outlaw by the Congress of Vienna, Napoleon worked to consolidate power as Britain, Prussia, Austria, and Russia formed the Seventh Coalition to prevent his return. Armies and Commanders Prussians Field Marshal Gebhard von Blà ¼cher84,000 men French Napoleon Bonaparte68,000 men Napoleons Plan Assessing the strategic situation, Napoleon concluded that a swift victory was required before the Seventh Coalition could fully mobilize its forces against him. To achieve this, he sought to destroy the Duke of Wellingtons coalition army south of Brussels before turning east to defeat Field Marshal Gebhard von Blà ¼chers approaching Prussian army. Moving north, Napoleon divided his Armee du Nord (Army of the North) in three giving command of the left-wing to Marshal Michel Ney, the right-wing to Marshal Emmanuel de Grouchy, while retaining personal command of a reserve force. Understanding that if Wellington and Blà ¼cher united they would have the power to crush him, he crossed the border at Charleroi on June 15 with the intention of defeating the two coalition armies in detail. That same day, Wellington began directing his forces to move towards Quatre Bras while Blà ¼cher concentrated at Sombreffe. Determining the Prussians to pose a more immediate threat, Napoleon directed Ney to seize Quatre Bras while he moved with the reserves to reinforce Grouchy. With both coalition armies defeated, the road to Brussels would be open. The next day, Ney spent the morning forming his men while Napoleon joined Grouchy at Fleurus. Making his headquarters at the windmill of Brye, Blà ¼cher deployed Lieutenant-General Graf von Zietens I Corps to defend a line running through the villages of Wagnelà ©e, Saint-Amand, and Ligny. This formation was supported by Major General George Ludwig von Pirchs II Corps to the rear. Extending east from I Corps left was Lieutenant General Johann von Thielemanns III Corps which covered Sombreffe and the armys line of retreat. As the French approached on the morning on June 16, Blà ¼cher directed II and III Corps to send troops to reinforce Zietens lines. Napoleon Attacks To dislodge the Prussians, Napoleon intended to send forward General Dominique Vandammes III Corps and General Étienne Gà ©rards IV Corps against the villages while Grouchy was to advance on Sombreffe. Hearing artillery fire coming from Quatre Bras, Napoleon commenced his attack around 2:30 PM. Striking Saint-Amand-la-Haye, Vandammes men carried the village in heavy fighting. Their hold proved brief as a determined counterattack by Major General Carl von Steinmetz reclaimed it for the Prussians. Fighting continued to swirl around Saint-Amand-Haye through the afternoon with Vandamme again taking possession. As the loss of the village threatened his right flank, Blà ¼cher directed part of II Corps to attempt to envelop Saint-Amand-le-Haye. Moving forward, Pirchs men were blocked by Vandamme in front of Wagnelà ©e. Arriving from Brye, Blà ¼cher took personal control of the situation and directed a strong effort against Saint-Amand-le-Haye. Striking the battered French, this assa ult secured the village. Fighting Rages As fighting raged to the west, Gà ©rards men hit Ligny at 3:00 PM. Enduring heavy Prussian artillery fire, the French penetrated the town but were ultimately driven back. A subsequent assault culminated in bitter house-to-house fighting which resulted in the Prussians maintaining their hold on Ligny. Around 5:00 PM, Blà ¼cher directed Pirch to deploy the bulk of II Corps south of Brye. At the same time, a degree of confusion struck the French high command as Vandamme reported seeing a large enemy force approaching Fleurus. This actually was Marshal Comte dErlons I Corps marching in from Quatre Bras as requested by Napoleon. Unaware of Napoleons orders, Ney recalled dErlon before he reached Ligny and I Corps played no role in the fighting. The confusion caused by this created a break which allowed Blà ¼cher to order II Corps into action. Moving against the French left, Pirchs corps was stopped by Vandamme and General Guillaume Duhesmes Young Guard Division. The Prussians Break Around 7:00 PM, Blà ¼cher learned that Wellington was heavily engaged at Quatre Bras and would be unable to send aid. Left on this own, the Prussian commander sought to end the fighting with a strong attack against the French left. Assuming personal oversight, he reinforced Ligny before massing his reserves and launching an assault against Saint-Amand. Though some ground was gained, French counterattacks forced the Prussians to begin retreating. Reinforced by General Georges Moutons VI Corps, Napoleon began assembling a massive strike against the enemy center. Opening a bombardment with sixty guns, he ordered troops forward around 7:45 PM. Overwhelming the tired Prussians, the attack broke through Blà ¼chers center. To halt the French, Blà ¼cher directed his cavalry forward. Leading a charge, he was incapacitated after having his horse shot. The Prussian cavalry was soon halted by their French counterparts. Aftermath Assuming command, Lieutenant-General August von Gneisenau, Blà ¼chers chief of staff, ordered a retreat north to Tilly after the French broke through at Ligny around 8:30 PM. Conducting a controlled retreat, the Prussians were not pursued by the exhausted French. Their situation improved quickly as the newly-arrived IV Corps deployed as a strong rearguard at Wavre which allowed a rapidly-recovering Blà ¼cher to reassemble his army. In the fighting at the Battle of Ligny, the Prussians sustained around 16,000 casualties while French losses numbered around 11,500. Though a tactical victory for Napoleon, the battle failed to mortally wound Blà ¼chers army or drive it to a location from which it could no longer support Wellington. Forced to fall back from Quatre Bras, Wellington assumed a defensive position where on June 18 he engaged Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. In heavy fighting, he won a decisive victory with the aid of the Blà ¼chers Prussians which arrived in the afternoo n.

Compare readings - Smart Custom Writing Samples

Compare readings - Smart Custom Writing Lacan?s Mirror StageAccording to Jacques (214), the mirror stage occurs when a baby, starting from six months finds out its own reflection in the mirror. The infant will then revolve towards the grown-up that is grasping it and begs that adult to prove with her or his appearance what it sees in the mirror that is the picture of a mastery not yet attained. The mind or consciousness can be categorized into three major patterns that control our lives and our needs. The three categories include the real, the imaginary and the symbolic order. Many of Lacan’s conditions for the occupied complication of the mind’s mechanism can be associated to the three main ideas that connect generally to the three major moments in the person’s growth as sketched in the Lacan’s module on psychosexual growth. The real order or perception is the state of nature from which we have been ceaselessly detached by our way into verbal communication and it is a period of wholeness which is later lost through the access into language (Jacques 195). This state of nature is a state of needs satisfaction and it involves the neo-natal kids that have no intelligence for any division between them and the outside world. An example related to this kind of state is an animal that is on heat as it refers to a need that is followed by a hunt for satisfaction.   This state goes on to apply its power throughout one’s adult life, as it is the astound against which all an individual’s desires and linguistic formation eventually fall short. The imaginary stage matches to the mirror stage and marks the movement of the issue from original need to command.   It is mainly self-centered even if it locates the period for the fantasies of wish.  Ã‚   For example as the kid starts to identify that its body is disconnected from its mother’s world it starts to experience nervousness that results from a feeling of something lost(Groves 320).  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Lastly, the symbolic stage involves language and narrative whereby as the kid goes into language, agrees the system and becomes able to handle others. This stage is made possible after acceptance. For example when the child accepts the name of the father he identifies the help of meaning and role of the symbolic stage (Groves 52). Work Cited Jacques, Lacan. The Mirror Stage.   New York: W.W Norton publishers. 2002. pp. 132-347 Groves, Leader. Introducing Lacan. Cambridge, UK: Icon Books Publishers. 200. pp.47-430

Palestine Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Palestine - Essay Example Under these techniques the Israeli Government restricted the citizenship for population of East Jerusalem; they also demolished the illegal houses. Government limited the city budget, and most of it evacuated the Palestinians who were living at West Bank. Due to these actions of the Government, people of Palestine felt threat to their homes and simultaneously their livings. Government in 2002 established a Separation Wall around East Jerusalem, this Wall separated the relations. People living inside the barrier were forced to be divided and had to disrupt their connections with the people left outside. This caused difficulty for the people of Palestine because many had to end-up their relations, businesses were highly affected, many had to face economic downfall, a lot lost their jobs, transportation problems etc. Before this partition East and West Jerusalem were one .i.e. all the operations were inter-related, and thus after the Partition daily lives of Palestinians is badly affected. The ways to enter or exit the East Jerusalem, there are check-points to pass where the passengers have to face strict inspections. These inspections have become the reason for the development of negative feelings regarding distress and degradation among the people. People avoid passing that passage because it causes disruption in their daily life (Spencer, 76). Restriction of Construction has caused the people of East Jerusalem to remain with their old homes and buildings. This has become a barrier for the businesses .i.e. no more buildings. One major difficulty is that families are expanding and the space is becoming congested. As a result there can be seen an increasing number of migration towards the cities at East, such as Al-Ezariyya and Abu-Dis. People migrate in-order to find peace and quality of life, but due to the restrictions of passing through Wall and strict

4. Using different newspaper articles on the recession and its origins Essay

4. Using different newspaper articles on the recession and its origins in the credit crunch assess how Webers explanation of value judgments and evidence might help us understand the different views - Essay Example (Hoenisch 2006). It clearly states that facts and information are different from values that exist in a judgment. We understand that a fact or evidence leading to a judgment is different from a value judgment. However, the question here is do facts and evidences on a situation enable us to make value based judgments? While we explore factual and perceptual information of the US recession, let us go over each piece of news from the leading dailies, over the last one year and carefully analyze and arrive at a consensus through Weber’s dichotomy understanding of facts and values. It is essential to arrive at a clear cut estimation of facts and the information stated in these dailies to understand their different views and the origination of the credit crunch. Body: Let us start off with the latest on the US recession. The Guardian reports â€Å"The US unemployment rate has hit a 26-year high after employers shed 663,000 jobs in March to cope with plunging demand for goods and deteriorating economic conditions. The March figures were in line with economists forecasts and they had little immediate impact on the financial markets. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was likely to open marginally higher at the opening bell on Wall Street.There was a degree of relief that the numbers were not worse. Peter Kenny, the managing director of Knight Equity Markets in New Jersey, said: "It gives the market a sense that we dodged a bullet in the very, very near term. Its positive in that it wasnt a blowout number of more than 750,000."Nevertheless, jobs were lost in every sector of the economy except for healthcare and education. The White House had been expecting bad news. Speaking ahead of the figures, President Barack Obamas spokesman, Robert Gibbs, said: "I think its safe to expect - without having seen them - that well see additional severe job cuts in America.† Despite the rising level of

An Analysis of Literacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

An Analysis of Literacy - Essay Example Firstly, it must be understood that literacy in and of itself can and should be described as a type of awareness. As described by Paul Kei Matsuda in his piece, â€Å"Alternative Discourses: A Synthesis†, the definition of what specifically defines literacy evolves and grows as a function of type and nature of literature that exists within a particular period in time. As such, the reader can readily note the fact that what defined literacy within the 18th century might not necessarily be what defines literature with the current era. However, a thread of similarity and comparability exists between all levels of literacy. The similarity is with respect to the fact that the individual who is literate is both aware and able to express themselves with regards to salient topics within a range of different issues. This does not necessarily engender the fact the individual must be a polymath who is talented a great range of different subjects; rather, it denotes an individual that is capable and willing to research and litany of different areas and present a balanced and reasoned analysis that can readily be understood by even an individual is not an expert within the given field.From the information that was provided within James Gee’s article, â€Å"What is Literacy†, it can also be understood that a pitfall that many professors, and indeed universities themselves make, is with respect to formalize the discussion in seeking first English as second language and native speakers integrate with the topic. in a particular way. Ultimately, the author points to the fact that college and/or University should be to a period of time in one’s life that they are able to use as a means of expanding their horizons and honing their ability to create and argue a well reasoned point. Ultimately, rather than forcing a level of similarity of content, the author argues for the fact that the rhetorical analysis process in and of itself is the greatest virtue. Finally, a further point, and thread of similarity that exists between three articles, is referenced in the third and final argument that will be analyzed. The author of â€Å"Acquisition of Literate Discourse: Bowing Before the Master†, Lisa Delpit, denotes the fact that even though it is human nature to define and define people based upon their abilities, it is unfair and unreasonable to stipulate that an individual is somehow inherently incapable of creating a well reasoned argument within a written format. Ultimately, the case in point is provided, is that of a disadvantaged African-American female who, although her GRE scores were insufficient for admission, she nonetheless was able to develop or rhetorical skills and proved to be a successful writer and explicate or complex and nuanced ideas. Accordingly, the author helps to argue for the fact that grouping individual into the category of â€Å"unable to write† is somehow akin to the way in which individuals are grouped and discriminated against with regards to other categories. Further, instead of a rash judgment being

Sch21 Communication Essay Example for Free

Sch21 Communication Essay Communication plays a major part in our everyday life, if we did not communicate with each other we could not learn, develop relationships or even progress and it is very important to make sure that the best provision is created for all. Different methods can be used as a way of communicating but the way we express it can have different effects on the children, parents and staff that we work with. When communicating with children it is important to give them your full attention as this encourages them to express how their feeling and to explore by asking questions because if by any chance you become distracted while communicating to a child by turning the other way while their are speakingthey may feel that what they are trying to say or ask you may be unimportant to you and this may cause the child to lack in confidence when speaking to another adult or child and may become reluctant in expressing themselves or asking questions. Adults can also demonstrate a good use of language and encourage children to express themselves and become confident in themselves by showing them that you are actively listening and showing them that they are valued by using your body language and facial expressions this is done by socially interacting with the child by getting down to their level and establishing eye contact, smiling attentivly and nodding encouraginaly to them. It is always important to make sure that good communication is kept with the child because if its not then the child may find it difficult to interact with you and this may affect his or hers learning and development. It is also important that your work is of its highest standard and that the child is benifiting from this. Good communication skills are always essential when working with parents, being positive towards them by showing them good eye contact, smiling and body language. It is also important when communicating with parents that you are giving them time to be heard and are paying full attention to them. When possitive relationships are formed between collegues and parents it is easier to trust, support help and advise. Parents will feel alot more confident about leaving their child in a setting if the staff are friendly and approachable by being this way you can recieve the mutual respect and develop a professional relationship by showing that you have interest and priority in their childs learning and development although it is as equally as important that while you are developing a professional friendly relationship with the parent that it doesnt become personal and develop into a friendship. Good communication is the key to establish a possitive relationship with your colleagues and other professionals in the setting it has a major impact on the daily running of the setting it is important to be polite show respect and be highly professional with anyone that you work along with. It is important to respect other peoples views regardless of your own personal opinion of them. If you choose to be unproffesional and dismiss other peoples views and opinions this may result in result between the adults and this can be easily picked up by the children and if communication is poor between the colleagues this can have a negative effect on the setting , while a good relationship between colleagues will create a comfortable and happy enviroment for allthose involved in the setting and they will feel valued which will create a strong proffessional relationship and will allow the children to learn and develop efficently, good teamwork depends on good communication. . 3 Give an explanation of why it is important to observe an individuals reactions when communicating with them. It is important to observe an individuals reactions when communicating with them because only around 70-80% of communication is verbal and if you are not paying attention to the persons facial expressions and bodily reactions then you will be missing out on a large part of the communication because not all people are able to communicate verbally maybe they dont know the language or just dont have the confidence, perhaps the individual may not have the confidence to confront the person therefore would use other ways of communicating.

Native Son :: essays research papers

Character Actions Defines Their Individual Personalities and Belief Systems Richard Wright's novel, Native Son, consisted of various main and supporting characters to deliver an effective array of personalities and expression. Each character's action defines their individual personalities and belief systems. The main character of Native Son, Bigger Thomas has personality traits spanning various aspects of human nature including actions motivated by fear, quick temper, and a high degree of intelligence. Bigger, whom the novel revolves around, portrays various personality elements through his actions. Many of his actions suggest an overriding response to fear, which stems from his exposure to a harsh social climate in which a clear line between acceptable behavior for white's and black's exists. His swift anger and his destructive impulses stem from that fear and become apparent in the opening scene when he fiercely attacks a huge rat. The same murderous impulse appears when his secret dread of the delicatessen robbery impels him to commit a vicious assault on his friend Gus. Bigger commits both of the brutal murders not in rage or anger, but as a reaction to fear. His typical fear stems from being caught in the act of doing something socially unacceptable and being the subject of punishment. Although he later admits to Max that Mary Dalton's behavior toward him made him hate her, it is not hate which causes him to smother her to death, but a feeble attempt to evade the detectio n of her mother. The fear of being caught with a white woman overwhelmed his common sense and dictated his actions. When he attempted to murder Bessie, his motivation came from intense fear of the consequences of 2 "letting" her live. Bigger realized that he could not take Bessie with him or leave her behind and concluded that killing her could provide her only "merciful" end. The emotional forces that drive Bigger are conveyed by means other than his words. Besides reactions to fear, his actions demonstrate an extremely quick temper and destructive impulse as an integral part of his nature. Rage plays a key part in his basic nature, but does not directly motivate the murders he commits. Rage does not affect Bigger's intelligence and quick thinking and it becomes evident during the interview with Briton. The detective makes Bigger so angry that the interrogation becomes a game to Bigger, a game of logic and wills, of playing the stupid negro, and telling the man exactly what he wants to hear.

How Accurate Is It to Describe the Us Constitution as Too Rigid?

How accurate is it to describe the US Constitution as too rigid and difficult to change? The USA has a written codified constitution and as a result, it may be described as too rigid and difficult to change. The UK in contrast, has an unwritten constitution in the sense that it is not contained in one single document so it lacks a formal constitution but is made up of a variety of different sources along with long-standing traditions. This has led to some saying it is too flexible and easy to change.While it may be argued, that the US constitution is too rigid and too difficult to change and this is highlighted through the lack of new amendments, I do not feel that this is a bad thing, it was desire of the Founding Fathers to be this way in order to ensure long-term political stability. In order to amend the constitution the Founding Fathers stated that Congress must call a national convention at the request of two thirds of the state legislatures or there must be a two-thirds superm ajority in favour of the amendment of both houses in Congress, the first has never been used.For a proposal to be ratified the Founding Fathers specified that there should never be another supermajority in three-quarters of the state legislatures for this amendment to be added to the constitution. The relatively inflexible nature of the US constitution is revealed through the number of amendments that have been made. Since the bill of rights, which was the inclusion of ten rights to the constitution, there have been only 17 amendments made.Even two of these cancel each other out, the 18th and 21st regarding to the prohibition of alcohol. This could be argued this is appropriate rigidity, some people would argue that it prevents the USA from adapting to changes in the national culture and situations. Many people state the ‘right to bear arms’ as the principle example highlighting the nation’s failure to set stricter gun laws. However, the nature of the constitutio nal change in the USA requires that the majority of people to put pressure onto Congress to implement necessary changes.The fact that this has not happened in some ways shows that the constitution is fulfilling its role and preventing fundamental changes based on minority views, just as it was designed to do. While the limited number of amendments presents the USA constitution as being highly flexible, it has been kept up to date through judicial interpretation. The founding fathers granted the judiciary the power to interpret the document and this has allowed the rules of the constitution to be kept up to date. It has been flexible in the sense it can evolve along with the changes in society.In this role, the judiciary has been willing to interpret the words in the light of modern conditions and ignore precedent. It should be noted that when the Judiciary is mainly Republican, they are more likely to conserve the constitution in its present state, whereas Democrats are likely to be more willing to add and interoperate the constitution more freely. The constitution was intended to be a full set of fundamental principles for the ‘new nation state’. If they are such fundamental principles, then it possibly could be argued that it should in fact be entrenched and difficult to change.In the USA, constitutional law is above that of ordinary statute law where there is conflict between the two. In contrast, the UK does not have constitutional law. ‘Constitutional changes’ are implemented in exactly the same manner as statute law, by a simple majority in the sovereign parliament, such as the Devolution of Scotland, however, in America any change in power would need constitutional amendment, and as I have pointed out this is a difficult process, however though not many amendments have been enacted, a few have showing it does happen time to time.The founding fathers set in place the rigidity of the constitution, giving the judiciary, the abilit y in making constitution to be flexible in terms of its interpretation, thus allowing it to keep it up to date. It has stood the test of time and has maintained political stability

Parents Against Education: Unschooling

The topic of radical unschooling is important for a number of reasons. It deals with a very important matter, which is the education and rearing of children. It calls the integrity of public schools into question and the importance of a curriculum. It also questions or disregards the need to guide children at all through life. The world in general does not look fondly upon radical unschooling. Most people see it as neglect. The people who choose this lifestyle for their family bring up a few arguments and have philosophies that, in theory, make sense. They say that unschooling is good for children because it allows them to naturally learn for themselves at their own pace and in their own environment. Radical unschooolers extend their beliefs to everyday life. They believe that it is best for children to freely learn and express themselves without guidance and outside pressure. The children of parents who practice this form of education, or un-education, mostly get to decide what is best for themselves and have very little, if any, rules at all. Parents who radically unschool their children argue that children are â€Å"natural learners† and this is the best way for children to learn because it gives them real-life experiences and helps them to grow their own intellect. However, it has been proven that children require guidance and structure that this form of education has time and time again shown that it does not provide. One large problem with radical unschooling is the lack of structure and care provided for the child. Though radical unschoolers argue that they do not neglect their children and they provide helpful advice and suggestions, this is not exactly what children need. It has been proven that children really need structure and a definite routine to feel comfortable. According to Kathy Eugster, a registered child and family psychologist, structure is very important in the lives of children. Not only does it help to assert parental authority, it also helps children feel safe and secure. Also according to Eugster, children who come from chaotic and uncontrolled households have a harder time with healthy development. Unschoolers make the argument that their form of education is best in the long run because children will adapt better to life in the real-world. The real world does not coddle adults as they may have been throughout their childhood, so the adjustment could be difficult for some. However, structure is also a large part of the adult world. Also, as children grow into teens and then become adults, they learn more to think on their own, especially if they are encouraged to do so within a structured environment when they are young. These things are found to be true in a study entitled, â€Å"Chaotic homes and school achievement,† performed by King’s College London, The Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Center. Children living in the environmental confusion and unpredictability of high levels of family chaos (i. e. noise, disorder and human traffic) have lower expectations, lack of persistence and a tendency to withdraw from academic challenge. The level of family chaos affects early reading skill, even after considering other home environmental factors relevant to children's mastery of reading. Parents who radically unschool say that their children are in control of their lives. This becomes a problem because parents are not teaching their children how they are expected to act in public. They are not able to socially interact with other people and often act in a way that most of society frowns upon. Quinn Cummings, the author of the book, â€Å"The Year of Learning Dangerously,† who unschooled her daughter for some time, recounts some of her experiences while attending a Radical Unschooler’s Conference. She said that when she was there, she witnessed children stripping down to nothing and running around a crowded room, as their parents did nothing. Also, she saw one four year old girls get up and hit another child as her mother looked on, not saying a word. Most radical unschoolers will argue that these things rarely ever happen. However, many people have recounted experiences where things like this do happen. It is not very uncommon to see behavior like this from children of parents who radially unschool. One mother expressed fear of her children playing with the children who were radically unschooled down the street from them because they were so violent. Without proper guidance, children are not able to know what behaviors are really appropriate and which ones are not. Also, schooling your children in an environment void of other children can become a problem. Since they are not exposed to different types of people, such as, different races, religious, and economic backgrounds, they can become intolerant. This becomes especially true since they are not being taught about these things if they do not express interest in them. Though the children are encouraged to â€Å"become their own person† so to speak, they can still act out the behaviors and have similar thoughts that the people in their environment have as they grow older. For example, in the essay â€Å"Group Minds,† Dorris Lessing makes the point that we all live our lives out in groups, whether it is a school, family, etc. It becomes very easy for people in this situation to fall prey to thought that they are their own person with individual thoughts and are not subject to other people's ideas infiltrating how they think. Even though unschooling parents say that their method of teaching is best because it prepares children for the real-world, they seem to skip over one of the most important parts of adulthood, understanding other cultures. Another issue within unschooling is general inability of being able to do it. This could be from a number of reasons. Many people do not have the money, resources, or knowledge to do this. Radical unschools make the point that if there is a will, there is a way. While this sounds nice, most two income houses are not able to live off of just one income. It is almost impossible for a single parent to switch of unschooling unless they become their own boss. Many people do not feel comfortable when not using a curriculum in teaching their children. By definition and through all of its philosophies, there is no curriculum for unschooling, especially radical unschooling. Also, many people do not feel that they have the proper knowledge to be able to teach their children, especially without a proper guideline of what they should be teaching. Honestly, many people do not find that they are properly qualified to teach someone else. An argument that is made often is that children have more options to explore things they want to do. While this is true, if the child does not express interest in it, parents are not supposed to make them pursue anything. Also, if a child decides they are not interested in anything, they very often end up sitting in front of the television or playing video games all day. This is not a radical step in the right direction, it is actually radically unhealthy. Allowing children to take interest in solely what they want is a main component in radical unschooling. In her essay, â€Å"When Bright Girls Decide that Math is a Waste of Time,† Susan Jacoby talks about how not being able to use math and science is detrimental to society. If a child decides that math and science are not important and only wants to color, that does not mean it is right to let them do so. Avoidance of math and science has the potential to limit job potential in the future, as well as, making a child feel inadequate when someone possesses more knowledge than them. Children learning to read can also go along with this. Many unschooling families had expressed concern with their child's unwillingness to read, or inability to catch on. Also, because part of the philosophy is for children to do things at their own pace, this can really be a hinderance. Often, they are behind and unable to excel in other subjects because they just cannot figure out reading. This also serves to greatly limit children and what they are able to do. Overall, radical unschooling is a bad idea. While the philosophies seem to be in the best interest of the child, most of the time, they are not practical. Numerous studies have proven time and time again that structure, routine, and true guidance are all important for children. Also, always allowing children to do activities that will not help to intellectually serve them is really hindering, not helping them. Without exposure to different types of people, children can become intolerant and in general stuck within themselves while not being concerned with other people. This is especially true if all they have been taught all of their lives is to do whatever they want to do. It is a great possibility that these children could grow up to be the kind of people who do not care for others, education, or and kind of structure. That is not the kind of future that is best for children.