Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 3

Management - Essay Example It must be noted that the revenues generated by these non profit making organization are retained in the organization for self preservation or even for expansion (Worth 2011). In most countries, nonprofit making organizations are exempted from taxation. The Nonprofit making organizations employs many people and offers services to the masses freely. It is in this regard, that the Government pardons them and exempts them from the compulsory tax (Gary 2006). An example of a nonprofit making organization is the Nature Conservancy. It is a charitable association based in the United States of America that works to preserve animals, plants and the natural communities which represent Earth’s diversity. They do this by protecting the environment. The organization has helped plant over a billion trees all over the world and it intends to plant 2 billion trees by the year 2015. It has an effort to reclaim 2,500,000 acres and make the place habitable for animals. It selects areas it seeks to preserve by analyzing what is needed in those areas and what can be done to ensure that the preservation of local ecosystems is done. A nonprofit making organization should work with almost all sectors of society in order to achieve its goals (Worth 2011). This includes businesses, partner organizations, government agencies and individuals. The company has also embraced Debt swaps. This is a tool which is used to encourage third world countries to set land aside for conservation in exchange for forgiveness of foreign debt. In the past, nonprofit organizations have relied on donor giving and public funding as their main source of revenue (Hartigan 2006). However, after the 1970’s the many of the nonprofit making organizations have become increasingly involved in the selling of services and many other commercial activities (Worth 2011). This trend has been referred to by many as the commercialization of nonprofit organizations. This trend of commercialization has resulted i nto a fierce debate which up to now remains unsolved (Gary 2006). There are those who support commercialization and there are those who reject it. Those who are in favor of commercialization argue that, commercialization has allowed the nonprofit organizations to be more self sufficient at this time when government funding for nonprofit organizations has been drastically reducing (Worth 2011). On the other hand, those against commercialization have argued that with commercialization, nonprofit organizations will focus on making more money and thus deviate from their original goal which was to offer services to the masses (Hartigan 2006). The risks associated with having a nonprofit enterprise are many. For example, due to the tax exemption the managers of nonprofit making organization can fraudulently steal money from the association as the organizations are not audited by the IRS (Gary 2006). On the other hand, the societies can also lose sight of their mission by engaging too much in business. The benefits of having a nonprofit organization are also many for example, the organizations can sufficiently run their own activities without the need for donor funding (Alvarado 2000). It becomes hard for nonprofit organizations to sufficiently plan for certain activities because donor funding is not constant. However, with sales they can predict the patterns and thus sufficiently plan for the future (Hartigan 2006). Part III: Long Essay Question In this study we are going to review the nonprofit organization Nature conservancy. The organization had an income of approximately $925,817,441. The organization used approximately $525,789,657. The fundraising costs thus seemed balanced. The expenses used in fundraising should not be more than the

A Worn Path Eudora Welty Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

A Worn Path Eudora Welty - Research Paper Example The old woman’s eyesight is fast failing her but she had to make it to the hospital in the city for the sake of her grandson. Welty gave her work rich symbolic meanings in her attempt to pass her message to her readers. The title itself ‘A Worn Path’ is symbolic of the old woman’s sufferings and determination to have her grandson healed (Deakins 14). The woman must have made repeated journeys to the hospital without giving up on her hope that one day, her grandson would get well. In Phoenix, the writes captures the spirit of perseverance in desperation, the story presents the theme determination and courage through characterization of Phoenix. Nothing other than determination is what inspires the old frail woman to make repeated journeys to the city on foot to seek for a relief for her ailing grandson. Through the actions and treatment of Phoenix by other characters, the theme of courage becomes clear to readers. Eudora Welty has used different literary sty les in achieving her purpose in writing the story. This paper shall focus on her use of symbolism, characterization, and setting to develop the theme of courage in ‘A Worn Path’. Characterization There are several characters in the short story in whose reception and treatment of the old Phoenix portrays her resilient character traits. She is determined to ensure that she gets the medication for he ailing grandson. On her way to Natchez city, the old woman with a failing vision encounters a White Hunter, Black American children, a pedestrian in the city, attendant at the hospital, a nurse at the hospital, and her ailing grandson whom she has lefty back at home. Her courage is seen when she is determined to go through all the hurdles that are presented by nature on her path that passes through the jungle. Phoenix says on her way â€Å"out of my way you foxes, owls, beetles, jack rabbits, coons, and wild animals†¦.† (Welty para 3). When the old woman was trudgi ng through the path uphill, she pauses and looks backs and says â€Å"Up through the pines. Now down through the oak.† (Welty para 5). The woman’s journey is largely tormenting but she is courageous that she would eventually reach the city to get medication for her grandson. When the White Hunter tells her to stay home where there is safety for her frail figure, the old woman says that she must reach Natchez city. Her main goal is to get to the city undeterred by the thorny bushes, steeps, and creeks of the jungle. Her abilities to keep trudging despite her numerous challenges brings her fourth as a very determined old woman who would not bow down to anything other than achieving her desires. Phoenix resilience helps the author in building the theme of courage in the story (Wampler para 1). Phoenix is treated condescendingly by the White Hunter that picks her from a ditch where she fell into. Due to the fact that Christmas holiday was just looming, the White Hunter pre sumes that the old black woman was making such a long journey just to lay her eyes on Santa Claus. He tells Phoenix â€Å"I know you old colored people! Wouldn't miss going to town to see Santa Claus!† (Welty para 19). This statement insinuates some kind of racial bias. The White Hunter is presuming that old black people are such obsessed with Santa Claus to an extent that the woman would just make many miles of a perilous journey just to see Santa Claus. Even when the White Hunter points his gun at her, Phoenix seemed unperturbed by the threat of the gun. At the clinic from

Does an International Political System exist?

Does an International Political System exist? Adding Another Page to the International Political System’s History Book The International Political System’s existence has been questioned in every way, and a plethora of studies have been conducted either to verify its very presence or reject it. It has gone through countless criticisms and praises. But even if we identified the truth about its existence, what would be the importance of knowing if such a system existed? Perhaps it is to make the obscure world a little bit clear. We get to learn things in the system better and possibly even predict what can happen in the future. The only tough task I presume is to classify them since the scope is immense. This paper aims to dwell into the subject matter and prove that one does exist. The first part of the paper will tackle the definitions of the words, â€Å"international,† â€Å"political,† and â€Å"system,† and how they constitute a set of elements peculiar to others. Having put together their definitions, I will turn my focus to the underlying topics that conform to the International Political System’s existence. And lastly, I will provide a conclusion that is going to sum up all my points in this paper. The term â€Å"international† was popularized by a political philosopher named Jeremy Bentham at a time when nation-states were perceived to be prominent actors in the world arena.[1] Using a less authoritative definition, it is â€Å"existing, occurring, or carried on between nations,† according to The English Oxford Dictionary. Furthermore, what is political, according to David Easton, refers to the â€Å"distribution of social values[2].† Systems, however, as defined also by David Easton, are just â€Å"constructions of experiential values, impartial and are not defined by ideology.[3]† Although we are more familiar with defining systems as, â€Å"sets of interacting parts that comprise a whole.† In addition, Hedley Bull also defined international system as a union of states bounded by interaction. This interaction, though, should have a significant amount of impact on another’s behavior[4]. Therefore, an International Political System inv olves two or more states bounded in common interaction with relation to the allocation of social values. To further elaborate the specifics of defining a system, especially one that is political, I will be using David Easton’s Systems Analysis and Categories for the Systems Analysis of Politics. With Easton’s given definition of a system above, it is said to be an open and adaptive system. He suggests that social systems create an open system. An open system is a system that responds to the environment’s influences and vice versa[5]. David Easton argues that a system cannot exist in a void. He claims that system requires an environment for it to exist[6]. And this environment, which is composed of the physical, sociological, social, and psychological, should enclose a system. Therefore, the identification of boundaries is clear. The environment is divided into two parts: intra-societal and extra-societal. The intro-societal consists of systems quite similar to that of the political. These may include a system that is economic, social, etc. While on the other hand, the extra-societal encompasses systems that do not belong within the society. Systems that are international in scope fall under this category – extra-societal (also called â€Å"super systems†). Thus, an international political system is one of the said systems. Now that the definitions have been provided, I will now give topics that indirectly claim that an international political system exists. They are its very foundation of today’s system. Moreover, topics such as structure-functionalism and the identification of patterns will be discussed. A factor to consider whether or not an international political system exists is the presence of intergovernmental organizations. These organizations address the problems of its members and solve them[7]. Having said so, there is a constant interaction between states. This is accomplished through the building of institutions or modifying the old ones. Take the United Nations for example, the European Union, and the World Bank, too. The United Nations have been participating in peacekeeping missions around the globe[8]. Consequently, it is an instrument for regulating power in the international system, acts as arbitraries in pacts or agreements between states, inspires political change, builds norms, ensures development of states. The ability to intervene in the politics of others is interaction. The European Union, however, evidently presents the interdependence of each member in the system. Thus, conflict would be avoided. It is also known not just to prosper financially and politica lly, but to observe human rights and see things in a democratic manner[9]. The World Bank however hopes to eradicate poverty across the globe and provide impartiality in the progressing world[10]. All of which have goals that are not centered in just one state. The scale ranges from a regional collective to an international/world collective. Thus, intergovernmental organizations give way to the existence of an international political system. With the inevitability of intergovernmental organizations, comes the existence of international laws. In neorealism, there exists a structure occupied by anarchic units. And in order to maintain stability and remain organized within the system, established rules are to be followed[11]. These rules make up the international laws. Although the only downfall of having such international laws is the fact that it invades the sovereignty of the states; therefore, international laws are being observed with consent of the state. The state might feel threatened that its sovereignty would be at stake. Transnational institutions are able to connect people in different places, strengthening ties between them. These are corporations that are â€Å"transnational.† They go beyond what it is to be a state or a nation. Although they are not states which we usually identify as units in an international political system, they do have what it takes to interact which undeniably still affects the system. Hence, they can be seen as units of analysis on this context. Existent before and today, diplomacy has been a big factor to prove that an international political system exists. Diplomacy is the peaceful relations among state[12]. It has existed throughout the course of history, preventing wars and promoting peace within the system. Without the will of states to communicate or interact, diplomacy then would be rendered useless. And had there not been diplomacy when interaction occurred, the options would have been to ignore or to go to war. Evidently, whatever choice a state pursues inevitably affects the behavior of the others. Thus, diplomacy is vital in conforming to the presence of an international political system. Treaties are written forms wherein states agree to something. This may include two or more states. It is also ruled by international law. Then again, this is political, and it includes two or more states which are our current units of analysis. Moreover, they do constitute a system. Treaties have been prevalent throughout the course of world history. Some of them include the Westphalian Treaty, which gave the birth of the definition of a state. Armistices which are also referred to as a ceasefire among warring states, contributes to the development of an international political system[13]. Today, we can see the armistice North Korea and South Korea which has been going on for a while now. Another feature is war. War is deeply connected to culture and is even as old as man himself. Although in contemporary times, when everything is quite organized, and wars occur due to the failure of politics[14]. Conflicts spawn when interests contradict, and this is political. World War II for example, came into being because of an immense sense of pride – Nazism. This ultra-nationalistic idea had interests which contradicted many, and so a war was brought into existence. What are usually associated with wars are the formations of alliances. There could exist two factions or a bipolar system where the power rests on two parties. From a liberalist’s perspective the increasing power of an ally isn’t much of a threat and neither do you feel threatened. In fact, you feel more secure. Somehow, this interaction shows an acknowledgment of one state to recognize the other. Hence, from a liberalist’s standpoint, as opposed to realism, cooperation is best, and interaction is greater[15]. Those who conform to this conceive of an absolute gain, or a positive or a negative sum game. Wherein both parties may have a win-win situation or a lose-lose situation. Unlike from a realist’s standpoint, it is always a zero sum game where one wins and the other loses. Hence, realists believe solely on self-interests, where liberalists, on the other hand, believe in shared interests[16]. Since the structure of the international system is anarchic, as conformed to neorealism, conflicts favor the system[17]. Observing the behavior of states, they appear to be relative such as how power that exists is. States normally try to balance their power to whoever has much, or surpass them[18]. Since systems promote stability and unity, the balance of power is intrinsic to the subject matter. This is done out of security purposes, which is in fact, political. Another issue to be tackled is the existence of its boundaries. The international political system, I suppose, should be an open and adaptive system, as what David Easton envisioned for a political system[19]. It should be able to accept whatever the environment has to offer and adapt to it. In order to identify the environment, we must first know the boundaries which separate it from the system. The fact that there exists an international economic system, suggests that it is a different field from the international political system. We can already identify a hint of its environment this way. Instead of focusing on how much the international political system has, we draw our attention more on what it lacks; then systematically, we can easily identify what belongs to its environment. Many critics though such as Lampert believe that the system is too immense that it leaves no space for the environment. But then again, it has all the qualifications of a system; it is only what the syste m lacks that is part of the environment. These aforementioned topics tell us that the system does exist. Now, I will be moving to the structure-functionalism theory. It is often called as â€Å"scientific analysis[20].† It often asks the questions: 1. What patterns exist in the study? 2. What are the conditions that these pattern produce? 3. What processes exist? First, I will define what a structure is. Structures are patterns to which a process is taking place. Functions, however, is defined as â€Å"a condition resulting from the activity performed by a unit[21].† Therefore, structure-functionalism ultimately refers to the foundation of theories to which they explain a comprehensive system framework. In light of the situation of determining the existence of the international political system, the structure would refer to the disturbances that affect the behavior of the units involved. Patterns usually provide us foresight. It is the importance of studying the international political system in order to predict what could possibly happen in the future. Since it clears what is obscure, it could help us establish norms that conform to the patterns that the structure provides. Wars, for example, have been countless results of patterns. From a realist’s point of view, there exist polarities. Power, which every unit struggles for, is a social value. It is their interest and patterns such as balancing of power, offensive realism, defensive realism, come into play[22]. Whatever deviates from these patterns triggers war. It is plausible that almost anything can be quantified today. By providing a set of actions to political actors inevitably mean that system exists. Therefore, without an international political system, patterns would not be provided and understanding the political phenomena in society will be difficult. This is one of the reasons why an international political system should exist. It will provide a framework that will guide political scientists or scholars who specialize in the field of international relations. It is to provide a political map and understand the underlying causes as each situation occurs. Consequently, should this field be taken as a discipline of study, future scholars could possible devise multiple theories which can benefit the entirety of the system. Furthermore, discontinuities can pose no threat to the missing links or the gap that development took a leap. And even better, this leap could spring forward to an even farther destination. Conclusion: Of the given topics above, I have attempted to prove that an international political system exists. From the very definitions of these terms that make up the subject matter, to intergovernmental organizations that exist within the system, to international laws by which states respect and ultimately follow with consent, to transnational institutions or actors that expand or go beyond a state level of analysis, to how diplomatic relationships refer to the preservation of their respective politics without conflict, to wars that eventually happen due to the patterns provided by the international political system, to how formation of alliances meddle with the interactions of states and the influences abroad, and to the realist’s perspective of an anarchic system. Further discussion about the scope of the system has been talked about, identifying the boundaries of All these topics are involved in the activities that comprise the international political system. To identify the origins of the system, I have used the structure-functionalism theory and Systems analysis. Structure-functionalism is a foundation to many systems. It provides the patterns found in the study and used the structure-functionalism theory. I have found it useful to incorporate this field to conform to the system’s existence since it has been a foundation to many systems in the environment. It starts off by identifying patterns found in the political phenomena. Consequently, it determines the functions of each element included in the structure. Having done so, a system is created. David Easton’s analysis however of a political system states that it is adaptive and open. Moreover, he states that systems are not bounded by an ideology. Furthermore, he states that environment which encloses the political system can be divided into two: intra-societal and extra-societal. He further states that the intra-societal environment consists of systems similar to that of the political; while extra-societal, on the other hand, involves supra systems, or systems international in nature. And lastly, I have provided instances why an international political system exists and should exist. I have stated multiple assessments that could either help us get through international matters in a good way or the opposite, all depending on the existence of an international political system. Bibliography European Union. (n.d.). Retrieved August 29, 2014, from European Union Web site: http://europa.eu/about-eu/index_en.htm Hamilton, K., Langhorne, R. (1995). The Practice of Diplomacy. New York: Routledge. McCormick. (2004). Comparative Politics in Transition. Indiniapolis : Cengage Learning. Susser, B. (1991). Approaches to the Study of Politics. New York: Prentice Hall. The World Bank. (n.d.). Retrieved August 29, 2014, from The World Bank Web site: http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2013/04/17/ending_extreme_poverty_and_promoting_shared_prosperity Wansbach, R., Rhodes, E. (2000). Global Politics in a Changing World. Houghton Mifflin Company. Young, O. (1968). United Nations and the International System. International Organization, Vol. 22 No. 4. [1] Richard W. Mansbach and Edward Rhodes, Global Politics in a Changing World (Boston:2000) [2] Bernard Susser, Approaches to the Study of Politics (New Jersey, 1991) [3] Ibid. [4] Hedley Bull, Anarchical Society (New York, 1977) [5] Bernard Susser, op.cit. [6] Ibid. [7] Richard W. Mansbach and Edward Rhodes, op. cit. [8] Oran R. Young, United Nations and the International System (Madison: 1968) [9] Retrieved August 29, 2014, from http://europa.eu/about-eu/index_en.htm [10] Retrieved August 29, 2014, from http://www.worldbank.org/en/about [11] David Kinsella, Bruce Russett, and Harvey Starr, World Politics: The Menu for Choice (Boston, 2010) [12] Keith Hamilton and Richard Langhorne, The Practice of Diplomacy (New York, 1995) [13] John McCormick, Comparative Politics in Transition (Indianapolis, 2007) [14] Richard W. Mansbach, op.cit. [15] Bruce Russett, Harvey Starr, and David Kinsella, op.cit. [16] Ibid. [17] Ibid. [18] Ibid. [19] Bernard Susser, op.cit. [20] Ibid. [21] Ibid. [22] Bruce Russett, Harvey Starr, and David Kinsella, op.cit. Sociology: Attack On Biological Determinism Sociology: Attack On Biological Determinism Biological determinism is a theory that tries to explain a persons behaviour and other aspects of life in relation to his or her genetic makeup. This theory was encompasses the work of various prominent scientists such as Mendel, Charles Darwin and Francis Galton. Biological determinism abnegates the idea of the surrounding influencing the characteristics and behavioural aspects of an individual. For decades, this theory has been expounded in order to explain human behaviour comprehensively. Charles Darwin proposed heritable characteristics are determined through natural selection. Darwin was of the opinion that an individual would inherit the optimal characteristics that would ensure his survival or have a reproductive advantage. However, sociologists have strongly criticized the biological determinism theory because it does not take into account the environmental factors that affect behaviour (Banyard and Grayson, 2000). This article aims to discuss the concept of biological determ inism and the opinion of sociologists on this concept. Discussion Biologists, when referring to different behaviours and roles of individual in the society, agree that a set of predetermined biological process determine these behaviours. Therefore, people think and act in different manner because they have different development in their brains (Velden, 2010). Biological theorists are of the opinion that the chromosomes and hormones in his body control brain cell formation. For example, the male in the society are equipped with both the Y and X chromosomes whereas the women only have the X chromosome. The Y chromosome in men leads to production of testosterone and other male hormones. Therefore, the male brain develops differently from that of a woman due to the difference in genetic material in the sexes. Biologists have gone further to use the differences in male and female brain to explain the difference in behaviours between the sexes (Kronfeldner, 2009). Biological determinism operates on the assumption that all behaviours have particular causes, which are mainly genetic or related to biological functions and processes. Experiments done by Raine et al (1997) focused in the abnormalities found in the brain of murderers. Raine et al (1997) tried to find determine the common factor in murderers who had put a plea of not guilty by virtue of insanity. In the experiments, Raine et al (1997) looked at the PET scans of murderers and observed their cortical and sub-cortical brains. This experiment aimed to determine whether having brain dysfunction and abnormalities like schizophrenia are linked to the violent behaviours exhibited by the murderers. Raines experiment only focused on the innate factors while it ignored the external factors such as the environments that may control the behaviours of an individual. Biological determinism also focuses on reductionism. Reductionism views individuals as divided into hierarchical groups. Therefore, the biological determinists view the inequalities between sexes, nations, classes as intrinsic rather than extrinsic (Carolan, 2005). Therefore, this theory portrays the picture that if one person is less successful than the other is, it is s not because of the contributing factors in the environment, but because the other person is intrinsically incapable of being successful. Biological determinists therefore believe that men in the society are dominant because they are intrinsically more aggressive and rational than women. According to this theory, biologically inheritable material and not the surrounding environment determine division in the society (Carolan, 2005). It is the opinion of most sociologist that it is irrational to consider social classification as a genetic factor. This is because human from different divides and social backgrounds have been known to interact and live in similar classes. It is also logical to assume that the environment and the surrounding enforces some traits and leads success or failure of an individual in a society. It is from this mode of thinking that sociologists have formulated their theories on human behaviour and societal interaction. The external environment contributes greatly to the behaviour of a person in the society. In fact, according to sociologist the surrounding environment solely regulates behaviour. Although biologists believe that only biological processes influence behaviours, there are various flaws in this perspective. Biologists tend to ignore cognitive behaviours exhibited by individuals in their theory of biological determinism. This is where sociologist criticizes the biological determinism theory. Sociologists believe that people exhibit different behaviours depending on the surrounding environment. For decades, the sociologists view on biological determinism has been that of disapproval. Most sociologists are uneasy with the biological determinism theory because it does not fully explain behavioural exhibition in people (Carolan, 2005). Sociologists disapproval of determinism is justifiable to a given extend especially when such disapproval is guided by ideologues that seek to validate, and rectify, the status quo of the biological determinism. The argument advanced by sociologist is based on the fact biological determinists have a fear that there is a probability of l osing the genic capacity. Therefore, sociologists believe that looking very deep into the realm bio physiology to explain social phenomenon is irrational and rather irresponsible. Social scientists such Skinner believe that all behavioural aspects of a person are determined by the external stimuli (Boeree, 2006). Skinner in his theory concluded that the concept of free will is just an illusion and a persons behaviour will usually conform to his surrounding rather than be genetically determined. Skinners theory on behaviour was majorly based on operant conditioning. Skinner believed that an organism or a person operated in a specific environment with various stimuli that contributed towards specific behaviours. Therefore, skinner believed that when a person or organism is exposed to certain environment a stimulus known as the reinforcer contributed towards his repeated behavioural exhibition (Boeree, 2006). From Skinners theory, we can deduce that a behaviour followed by a reinforcing stimulus has a higher likelihood of being repeated or not. Skinner used the example of a rat in a cage with a bar or pedal. In case the rat presses the pedal or the bar, it leads to release of food pellet. Assume the rat is bouncing in the cage and accidentally presses the bar then the food pellet is released. Therefore, this rat will tend to repeat this behaviour not because it inherited such traits but because it there is a reinforcing stimulus in the environment (Boeree, 2006). Watson John supports Skinners opinion by also showing that the surrounding environment governs an individuals behaviour.   Watson assumes that behaviour exhibited by an individual can be correlated to other observable occurrences in the environment. In Watsons opinion, there are usually definite occurrences that precede and follow exhibition of certain behaviours. Watsons behaviourism theory attempts to explain the relation between stimuli in the environment and an individuals response (behaviour). Watson like Skinner borrowed his idea on behaviour from Pavlovs conditioning experiments. Watson believed that individual learned through stimuli substitution and similarly behaviours in individual are exhibited according to change in stimuli rather than genetic predispositions (Winfred, 2010). Watson became one of the many sociologists to oppose the mentalist concept. He believed that the early neuroscientists were very ignorant on how the nervous system and the brain functioned. At that time, biological determinism was widely accepted as an explanation to behavioural exhibitions. However, Watson changed this opinion by using contiguity to explain how organisms learned. Watsons theory assumed that emotions were complex expression of classical conditioning and therefore complex behaviours only came about due to combination of recognisable reflexes (Winfred, 2010). Like Skinner, Watson believed that repeated activity strengthened the learning process and the learning process is what creates the difference between human behaviour. Despite the fact that Watsons position did not explain the concept of human learning, his theory is currently considered as one of the pioneers to learning sciences. Conclusion In the society, the most obvious feature is inequality. It is obvious that some individuals have great wealth while others are poor Different groups explain these inequalities according t their preferred theory. Biological determinists believe that inequality in the society is as a result of the intrinsic factors. Sociologists on the other hand believe that social differences are as a result of extrinsic factors. Both these arguments are passionate and provide interesting view into the human behaviour and social organization.Sociologists try explaining the relation between human beings and their surrounding while neglecting the concept of biological determinism. However, socialism alone cannot explain some behavioural patterns neither can biological determinism. It is necessary for both the sociologist and biologists to move towards a relatively dynamic theory, which is open to interrelation of theories from both sides of the divide. No matter how much the sociologist may wish to sti ck to their theory, they cannot evade the complex nature of biological organisms. As much as the environment influences the behaviour, it is necessary to note that chemical reactions and hormonal changes also influence how organisms and human behave. Currently, it would be absurd to support only one theory due to the evidence available. Social theories provide their arguments, which are as compelling as the arguments provided by the biological determinists. It is therefore irrelevant for sociologist to wage war against biologists since booth theories have weaknesses, which can be augmented if the theories are combined to form a grand theory that explains human behaviour.

The Theme of the Veil in W.E.B. Du Bois Souls of Black Folk :: Souls of Black Folk Themes

"For now we see through a glass, darkly" --Isiah 25:7 W.E.B. Du Bois's Souls of Black Folk, a collection of autobiographical and historical essays contains many themes. There is the theme of souls and their attainment of consciousness, the theme of double consciousness and the duality and bifurcation of black life and culture; but one of the most striking themes is that of "the veil." The veil provides a link between the 14 seemingly unconnected essays that make up The Souls of Black Folk. Mentioned at least once in most of the 14 essays it means that, "the Negro is a sort of seventh son, born with a veil, and gifted with second sight in this American world, -a world with yields him no true self-consciousness, but only lets him see himself through the revelation of the other world. It is a peculiar sensation, this double consciousness, this sense of always looking at one's self through the eyes of others."Footnote1 The veil is a metaphor for the separation and invisibility of black life and existence in America and is a reoccurring theme in books abo ut black life in America. Du Bois's veil metaphor, "In those somber forests of his striving his own soul rose before him, and he saw himself, -darkly as though through a veil"Footnote2, is a allusion to Saint Paul's line in Isiah 25:7, "For now we see through a glass, darkly."Footnote3 Saint Paul's use of the veil in Isiah and later in Second Corinthians is similar to Du Bois's use of the metaphor of the veil. Both writers claim that as long as one is wrapped in the veil their attempts to gain self-consciousness will fail because they will always see the image of themselves reflect back to them by others. Du Bois applies this by claiming that as long as on is behind the veil the, "world which yields him no self-consciousness but who only lets him see himself through the revelation of the other world."Footnote4 Saint Paul in Second Corinthians says the way to self consciousness and an understanding lies in, "the veil being taken away, Now the lord is the spirit and where the spirit of the lord is there is liberty." Du Bois does not claim that transcending the veil will lead to a better understanding of the lord but like Saint Paul he finds that only through transcending "the veil" can people achieve liberty and gain self-consciousness. The veil metaphor in Souls of Black Folk is symbolic of the invisibility of blacks in America. Du Bois says that Blacks in America are a forgotten people, "after the Egyptian and Indian, the Greek and Roman, the

Rebranding in the london docklands: case study Essay

Jumping straight to the point, rebranding has 1occurred and is currently taking place in various ‘hot spot’ locations to try to give the area a new modern feel. The chairman of the London Docklands Development Corporation, Sir Michael Pickard, said himself that, ’16 years ago, the Isle of Dogs was an isolated, tightly knit community seemingly in the grip of irreversible decline. Today, massive investment from both the public and private sectors has transformed the area. There are new schools, health centers and homes, park and playgrounds, new road and rail links, and nearly 1. 4 million square meters of commercial and industrial development, over 80% of which rented. The new residents and businesses have brought a fresh lifeblood to the Island. ‘ So it is obvious that rebranding has taken place, but to what extent and where has it happened. The first information study I am going to look at is a place check form, here it will become more apparent which areas have undergone rebranding to a higher extent than others. So looking at fig. 1. 1, is an area called Felstead Wharf is reported to have high quality modern housing, with adjacent car parks provided. From the information in the photo and also the report, one can deduce that this area, once holding low quality housing for the working class population of the Docklands, has now been transformed into an upmarket residential area offering a home to business men and women who work in the central business district. But, when only moving a small distance, approximately, 2000 feet, one meets an area were regeneration is ‘currently in progress’ looking closely at figure 1. 2, we see at approximately 429 Westferry Road, a large super structure which at one point was a warehouse in the industrial era and now is simply a steel skeletal structure. However this large building is soon to be transformed by the council to make a series of aesthetically pleasing offices. In complete contrast, and in the final study of the place check form, draw attention to figure 1. 3. Here although closer to the the Central Business District, this area on Glengall Grove is reported to have poor housing quality with cement walls being badly stained and covered in graffiti, the houses themselves were small, of bad quality and usually terraced. With the nearby park in a state of disrepair. The significance of the above study shows in figure 1. 1, 1. 2 and 1. 3, that in 3 locations separated only by around 3 to 4 thousand feet, the quality, quantity and utility of the building changes dramatically. Clearly in figure 1. 1 the council have decided to inject money to reinvent the housing in the area and at the same time, entice high class business men into the area and with it higher quality tertiary and quaternary industry. Now, looking at the environmental study table, on the left in figure 2. 1, it is obvious that the higher the score on the table the more likely the area is to have undergone regeneration. Take for example area H. It is obvious that this area is not ideal of appealing environmentally, this is conveyed through the overall score of the area being quite low, at 59 out of 100. This leads me to believe that the area has not undergone regeneration. Which according to the place check map, is in fact true. This formulae correlates not only for this specific location but the Isle of Dogs generally. This enables us to pinpoint areas which have not undergone regeneration and of-course those which have, giving us a greater understanding of the question; where has rebranding occurred. So by combining the two sources of information together, it is possible to create a more detailed map of the areas which have undergone regeneration. In figure 2. 3 the green scatterings are symbolic of an expensive area which is residential or business based but which has undergone rebranding. The blue areas area show partially rebranded areas or non-rebranded areas which are still aesthetically pleasing and wealthy areas. The red areas are representative of completely non regenerated areas, which generally contain low quality housing inhabited by lower class workers. So to conclude this sub-heading, on the whole, a large area of the Isle of Dogs has undergone rebranding through regeneration,it has mainly occurred in regions close to the river. These areas are generally speaking, residential high quality flats and houses aimed at the business man who perhaps works in the Central business district as this is a prime location; close to work and in a pleasing environment. The regenerated areas further inland are more often business related, with aesthetically pleasing offices and high quality shops infiltrating the area. Some however is regenerated housing, offering high quality housing at a slightly lower price for middle to upper middle class workers. There are still some areas which remain untouched by the rebranding scheme put together by the LDDC (London Docklands Development Corporation) in 1997. These areas have assumed the position of low quality housing with high crime rates according to the local council. These areas suffer as businesses often relocate from this area because expendable income held by most residents in this area is low. Success of rebranding. The relative success of the rebranding process can easily be determined simply by looking at interviews and presentations and comparing peoples opinions of the area with the overall percentage of the area which has been regenerated. To illustrate this more clearly, see figure 3. 1. This graph represents 6 different areas within the Isle of Dogs, in each, an area with different levels of regeneration. In this area, local residents were subjected to questioning about their opinions on the area. The results show that on a general level, that when the amount of rebranding/regeneration increases, so too does residents happiness. However notice area 1 and 2 in figure 3. 1, the opinionated happiness is higher in area 1 which is subject to no rebranding than in area 2 which has roughly 20 percent of the area rebranded. The reason for the sudden decrease in area 2 is explainable. People are generally happier in area 1 because the culture of the area is not being ruined by modern housing for business workers. Many lower class or retired people live in Area 1 and are happy to maintain a high level of culture and a sense of community. So in Area 2 the level of rebranding has increase somewhat. With it, comes new residents, and with new residents come loss of culture and the community spirit is often broken. So when interviewing a man who had lived in the area for 30 years, he was unhappy about this sudden change and would have been happier had the area remained untouched. Overall, the relative success of rebranding on the wellbeing of citizens is high. Once an area has completely undergone regeneration, the consensus is unanimous in high opinionated happiness. Understanding the fact that rebranding has been a success for the majority or residents, what about for the council and the economy? Looking at the average house price in area 1 for a 3 bedroom house/flat, the price is roughly 250,000 pounds. Considering it is in a prime location the price is relatively low because aesthetically, the house is not very pleasing, crime rates are high and average income is low. If then one sees the house price in area 6 for a 3 bedroom apartment, the cost can go up to and exceed 2. 5 million pounds on todays market. The success of a rebranded area is obvious by simply looking at these figures. By creating such high quality housing, it influences upper middle, to upper class workers, most usually those who work in the Central Business District into the area. These people are useful to the local council as they pay a high amount of tax and entice high class high profile businesses into the area. This is because the businesses understand they have a high amount of expendable income. The success of these areas spiral upwards because the more high quality housing that is constructed, the more businesses locate to the area and in conclusion, the more money is injected into the local council and therefore back into the community. Areas still in need of rebranding As shown in figure 2. 3, the green highlights on the map are representative of the highly rebranded areas 80% or more. The blue areas represent areas that have undergone between 40 to 80%. The red areas are significant of 0 to 40% regeneration. Although there are a few areas which are yet to undergo redevelopment, on the whole the Isle of Dogs has seen a greater percentage or rebranding per square foot than most other residential areas in London. Because of this, it is important that the whole region of the Isle of Dogs is not lost under a sea of white walls and tinted glass. Some of the area should remain as working class housing with dirty red bricks with a musky feel to it. If all of it is lost, then it is possible that the area would lose its routes and its heritage and the great docklands would be remembered as something completely different than what it should. But the definition of rebranding is exactly that, so in terms of rebranding, there is roughly 35 percent of the Isle of Dogs, yet to be rebranded.

Beard vs Graff

As an ex-marine and a supporter for increased personal independence, you take pride in offering customers a variety of helmets and accessories that allow the consumer to express themselves confidently.Without your creative vision, this company would not have the sales growth that it has had over the ears due to your persistent work ethic. I am eager to continue to learn from you how to operate a profitable independent business, as I wish to accomplish similar successes in the long run. The number of U. S. traffic deaths has been on decreasing over the years; however, more people are dying in motorcycle crashes. 4,612 motorcyclists died in 2011, more than two times the amount in 1997.Out of the 4,612 lives taken from motorcycle accidents, around 750 could have been saved had the rider been wearing a â€Å"DOT† certified helmet. As you know, we have sold many novelty helmets over the years that o not meet â€Å"DOT† safety requirements, and these helmets provide no protec tion in a crash. Research has concluded that there is a â€Å"100-percent probability of brain injuries and skull fractures,† indicating that these helmets are worn more for style rather than safety. As this issue becomes more prevalent in the media, customers will begin to question whether price and style trump a lifesaving protective â€Å"DOT† helmet.As you have served in the military, you know how important each person's life is. With 800,000 novelty helmets being sold per year, imagine how many lives you ould save by excluding novelty helmets from our product line. Although this would be a large change in our business strategy, this change can increase profits, limit motorcycle fatalities, and positively portray the morals of our fear that I can see you having with only selling â€Å"DOT† helmets is that profit margins would diminish.Yet, we can increase our bottom-line if we inform our customer base of the extreme differences in protection that both helmet s provide. Once our consumers understand the importance of â€Å"DOT† helmets through statistics and estimonials of current customers whose lives were saved, we can incrementally increase these prices. It's also vital to note that with possible legislation being enacted that would ban novelty helmets and require all riders to wear â€Å"DOT† certified helmets, your company would be far more prepared for these changes than anyone else.Not to mention, in this litigation intense environment that we currently live in, banning novelty helmets from our product line would lower the probability of law suits exponentially. This is an opportune time to make a decision that will allow your company to grow for any years to come, and banning novelty helmets from your product line will be the right choice. You have always been extremely innovative, and with your leadership, we will continue to provide our customers with products that exceed our competitors' efforts.I would like to s et up a meeting with you on Friday, November 1 5th so that we can go forward with this project, and discuss the changes that must be made to expand our profits. I am confident that you recognize the benefits of going forward with this idea, and I will see you on Friday to resolve any other concerns that you may have. Sincerely, Sales, Marketing Department