Trustworthiness, Dependability, And Loyalty - 876 Words

Trustworthiness, dependability, and loyalty are essential aspect of genuine friendship. In Shakespeare s play, The Merchant of Venice, the main character, Antonio, deliberately protects his honorable friend in every way possible. It was questionable if his love for Bassanio can weigh the same amount as Bassanio’s love for him. True friends must always show justice, forgiveness, and an ability to take a risk when necessary; an involvement or any interference of a person’s business may be required for the sake of one’s happiness. A genuine friendship involves trust, forgiveness, and the willingness to sacrifice without any fear of judgement or negative criticism. As Bassanio comes into Antonio’s room to ask for money, Bassanio beats around the bush by flattering the honorable Antonio, but Antonio senses the truth, â€Å"I pray you, good Bassanio, let me know it; †¦ My person, my extremest means / Lie all unlocked to your occasions† (I.i.142, 145-6). In order to impress the beautiful and rich Portia, which immediately led to Bassanio to ask Antonio for money. Although Antonio expects nothing more from Bassanio other than his own happiness, he has already used all his money on his business venture. The other choice left was to sign a contract with the Jew, Shylock. They both dislike each other. It is a tough decision even for Antonio, but his willingness to sacrifice himself reveals his loyalty and love as a friend. Similarly, the power of love for a friend can push human’s limitShow MoreRelatedAldi : The Double Guarantee And Customer Loyalty922 Words   |  4 PagesDouble Guarantee and Customer Loyalty The service I chose to analyze is ALDI’s Double Guarantee, a service that the ALDI foodstuffs brands boast. ALDI’s Double Guaranty touts a 100% satisfaction guarantee that includes monetary reparations for not meeting that 100% satisfaction guarantee, as well as replacement of that particular product. I chose the Double Guarantee because I think that it is a wonderful marketing strategy, and a great way to improve brand loyalty and customer satisfaction, as wellRead MoreThe Benefits of a Psychological Contract in Employee Performance1477 Words   |  6 Pagescontract In psychological contract, I as employee will offer loyalty, honesty, self-discipline, self-responsibility, dependability, quality of work and trustworthiness for my employer to make them feel comfortable with me to communicate about the task and easy for me and the employer to discuss any problem that relate with the task or job. Give a full loyalty to the organization. I will give a full loyalty to the employer and also in an organization. For example, I will not complainingRead MoreEssay on The Perfect Friend; A Character Review of Horatio1343 Words   |  6 Pagesthem as friends. These attributes are normally things a person either strives to be or mimic those of the person. Horatio represents the light or conscience side of Hamlet in the play. The Loyalty, trustworthiness and level minded thinking of Horatio provides the sane interpretation of Hamlet’s insanity. Loyalty is the number one characteristic that is searched for in a friendship. Horatio sets the example of this trait. Horatio is like the angle sitting on your left shoulder. The angel’s purposeRead MoreHow Leadership Is A Leader1306 Words   |  6 Pageslist of traits provide character guidelines by which to evaluate yourself. By measuring yourself against these ideals, you can improve your weaknesses and make the best use of your strengths. 1. Integrity. The qualities of absolute honesty, trustworthiness, uprightness of character, and high moral principles. To be a leader with integrity, Tell the truth to both superiors and subordinates. Stand for what you believe in, even if the belief is unpopular. Use your power to work toward your organization’sRead MoreHow Of Effectively Use Color On Business Proposals Essay1343 Words   |  6 Pagesformality, and elegance. Use black to make a bold statement, especially when paired with other colors. Black combined with other deep colors such as purple can make a powerful impression. Green has many meanings, such as heath, nature, money and trustworthiness. Use greens if you are in a healthcare, environmental, or financial field. Brown has traditionally represented reliability and longevity. Use browns to show a sense of down-to-earth reliability. Red is generally used to convey meanings suchRead MoreLincoln Electroic755 Words   |  4 Pageschallenge management if they feel that they are being treated unfairly in regards to compensation rates and practices. Lincoln electric also encourages their management staff to reward employees who exhibit the core values of trustworthiness, openness, self-management and loyalty (Draft, 2010). Question 2 Based on what you have just read, what do you think makes Lincoln System so successful in the United States? Answer 2 One reason Lincoln Electric is so successful is because they fully investRead MoreGB580 Unit 6 Assignment Essay769 Words   |  4 Pages It is not easily defined or looked at one faceted in regards to definition. However, leadership is encompassing of a multifaceted assortment of characteristics. A notable leader will retain traits like guidance, trustworthiness, fantastic listening skills, confidence, dependability, understanding, and empowering. As leaders or when becoming leaders we should lead from our core beliefs and values. In the business world today we fall witness to several different types of leadership. Each styleRead MoreEthics, Ethics And Human Interaction857 Words   |  4 Pagesintegrity, business practices or accountable business conduct. Characteristics of Ethical Business The case for business ethics is an easy one, customer loyalty and trust. An ethical company has the trust of all its stakeholders and regard the interest of them all with high priority. In the world of business today, trustworthiness, dependability and reputation of the firm is regarded with the utmost importance, even by investors. â€Å"Reputation is an important component of an organization’s value. CorporateRead MoreEnron Case : The Smartest Guys Of The Room1149 Words   |  5 Pagesdestroyed the loyalty within the company. Therefore each individual within the company could have benefited from having a personal ethical code of their own to follow so they could have avoided the influence of corruption. In view creating a personal code of ethics one must consider the aspect of relationship, honesty and integrity, work ethic, transparency and disclosure of information, and fairness. In a relationship of any kind, I demonstrate respect, patience, loyalty, and trustworthinessRead MoreAcademic Ethics And Academic Integrity Essay1276 Words   |  6 Pagesmembers in performing the functions of their job appropriately, while behaving in a professional and ethical manner (Web Finance Inc., 2016). Some of the characteristics of professional ethics include â€Å"knowledge, honesty, accountability, integrity, loyalty, compliance with the law and more† (Reference An IAC Publishing Labs Company, 2016, para. 3). Professional ethics are important because it builds credibility and shows that the person is capable of doing their job appropriately, regardless of the

Uniforms in Public Schools - 1787 Words

Uniforms in Public Schools: A Positive Approach Towards the Future Since the late 1990s many public schools across the nation have opted to implement a stronger dress code policy which have involved the addition to a specific mandated uniform policy. While some critics of mandatory uniform policies believe that there is no justification for change, school uniforms offer educational benefits, improve student behavior, social interaction, and are more cost effective and durable than traditional street clothes. The issue of mandatory school uniforms has taken on several debates over the past decade and it is believed that this issue will plague public schools for decades to come. We must ask ourselves the following questions to fully†¦show more content†¦There are several creative outlets besides the choice of clothing options. When it comes to our economy, we as Americans must pinch our pennies where we can. Many parents are faced with the dilemma of outfitting their children in the latest trends or putting money towards more important things like saving for their childrens college education. Some families are unable to afford the popular named brand clothing that their children desire, which make the children, feel inadequate in school when they are forced to wear lesser brand clothes or second hand outfits. School uniforms would take away that hassle of finding bargains to ensure that their children feel confident in their attire. Uniforms are generally more durable than the average street clothes. Granted, the cost may be a bit more substantial in the beginning, but the uniforms will last longer which means there is less out of pocket expense for replacement articles. With uniforms, the parents may only have to purchase two or three sets compared to several pairs of bottoms and tops. Uniforms are more durable and can be washed more frequently compared to regular clothes. This makes them the better option not only for lower income families, but all families in general. Critics claim that uniforms will cost the familie s more money in the long run because parents will be forced to buy the uniforms and regular clothing for their children to wear when they are not in school. The cost forShow MoreRelatedPublic School Uniforms And Public Schools2077 Words   |  9 PagesPublic Schools Mandatory Uniforms The debate about public school uniforms in America is an issue that has been around for a very long time. This issue was even mentioned by President Bill Clinton in a previous State of the Union address in 1996. In his 1996 State of the Union Address, President Clinton decreed,† I challenge all of our schools to teach character education, to teach good values and good citizenship and if it means that teenagers will stop killing each other over designer jackets,Read MoreSchool Uniforms And Public Schools1303 Words   |  6 PagesUniforms are an identifying outfit or style of dress worn by the members of a given profession, organization, or rank. (Dictionary.com) A typical uniform consist of dark pants or shorts for boys, skirt for girls, and a shirt or a blouse. Students can also buy and wear a T-shirt with the school logo but it is not common. School uniforms first became popular in the United States in the mid 1900’s and originated from England. The major movement tow ards uniforms in state schools began with PresidentRead MoreSchool Uniforms And Public Schools1547 Words   |  7 Pagesthe outside, then our public schools should be able to require their students to wear school uniforms.† President Clinton is referring to the outfits or sets of standardized clothes that are worn primarily for an educational institution, usually in primary and secondary schools in various countries. When used, they form the basis of a school’s dress code, which is a set of rules, usually written and posted specifying the required manner of dress at a school. It began when schools had issues with gradesRead MoreSchool Uniforms And Public Schools2510 Words   |  11 Pages​ School uniforms in public schools may seem out of style to some student, but in many situation they can increase school spirit, class participation and student time Management. According to The American Humanist Magazine, in President Bill Clinton s 1996 State of the Union A ddress he requested that all 16,000 school districts to mandate a uniform guideline for its students. He stated that , If it means that juvenile will stop bloodshed each other over designer outfits of clothing brand, thenRead MoreSchool Uniform Is Not A Public School Tradition Essay1359 Words   |  6 PagesSchool uniform has been a rising issues throughout the country and the issue has been getting only bigger with the internet and social medial. School uniform was not a public school tradition but it was first famous among English charity schools in England. It was a blue coat like the one worn at christ’s hospital and it is known to be one of the earliest examples of school uniforms. They took â€Å"fatherless and poor children from the parish and educated them(Scott). After a while it became aRead MoreSchool Uniforms Should Be Public Schools968 Words   |  4 Pages School Uniforms Parents around the globe have emphasized the controversy over school uniforms. During the school year of 2011-2012, one in every five school required students to wear school uniforms. America s first documented schools to inaugurate uniforms were in Maryland and Washington. Throughout the previous years in America, there have been numerous disputes whether school uniforms should be in public schools. In the last 30 years, public schools have often been hostilely compared to privateRead MoreSchool Uniforms And The Success Of Public Schools1099 Words   |  5 Pages School uniforms are beneficial to students at all grade levels and can be a contributing factor in improving test scores, attendance and the graduation rate, while decreasing school violence and behavior issues. Research has proven significant connections between school uniforms and the success of public schools. In 1996 approximately three percent of all schools in the United States had a school uniform policy (Gentile Imberman, 2009) . In 2015 23% of schools reported a uniform policy (StatisticRead MoreMandatory School Uniforms For Public Schools2112 Words   |  9 Pagesbenefits is what mandatory school uniforms in public schools enforce. They take away the choice for young adults to express themselves through clothing styles. Uniforms are also costly due to not initially owning them, then the children not wishing to wear them or even being able to wear them outside of school grounds. These aspects are enforced because the administration believes it will benefit the students, but studies show otherwise. The use of mandatory school uniforms is not a progressive or usefulRead MoreSchool Uniforms are an Unnecessary Addition to Public Schools1060 Words   |  5 PagesSchool Uniforms are an Unnecessary Addition to Public Schools School Uniforms are being pushed more and more in schools, but what is commonly thought of when the words â€Å"school uniform† is said? For most people the picture of children in the same colored uniforms gathered in front of a Catholic Church or a private school is displayed in their mind. This picture is one of the many problems with school uniforms. Instead of being seen as an individual, students are seen as just another kid in aRead MoreEssay on The Benefits of School Uniforms in Public Schools2132 Words   |  9 Pagesof students’ attend public schools and face some sort of violence that is associated with that school. It can be gang related or just simply bullying in the school. Because of these rising issues, parents are being forced to pull their children out of public school and home school them for their safety. Is this the best action for the children? Will they be missing out on many life skills that are learned while attending schools with peers their own age? How can the schools make our children feel

Immigrant Families in the US Free Essays

1) Immigrant families in the United States Immigrants feel that their roles, beliefs, values, etc. are not as effective as the Unites States’, thus becoming stressful. â€Å"Therefore, in addition to the typical normative (e. We will write a custom essay sample on Immigrant Families in the US or any similar topic only for you Order Now g., family transitions) and nonnormitive (e.g., family natural disasters) stressors that families encounter, immigrant families experience unique stress and change relates to migration and acculturation† (Bush et al., 2010, p.287). Immigrants feel that they have to change their ways and it not only becomes stressful to the family members but also to the whole family system. The best way that immigrants have adapted is with integration. By combining their old ways with the new ways of the United States culture, they find comfort. Another common stressor is language barriers. â€Å"The inability to read signs, posted warnings, food labels, job applications, and materials related to children’s schooling is a frustration experience for many immigrants and can lead to increased pressure to learn English† (Bush et al., 2010, p.289). For adults who don’t have English classes to attend or the transportation to get to one, don’t get the social support they need in the United States. A lot of women, especially in Asian cultures, are not prepared for social skills outside of the family. On the up side stressors from the family system can be very positive and increase adaption. â€Å"Religion, spirituality, ethnic communities, and enclaves, shared cultural values, and informal and formal social support can serve as resources that aid immigrant families in adaption† (Bush at el., 2010, p.305). 2) â€Å"The ability to meet debt obligations, credit card use, and frequency of late payments made by credit users are all important factors in assessing subjective economic stress. Financial satisfaction appears to be directly related to credit practices and attitudes† (Bartholomae et al., 2010, p.193). Couples balance their financial differences by coping to deal with these matters. Social support and financial resources help to do so. Couples are also better equipped to deal with economic stress when they have a high self esteem and control over their finances. However some family members lose their job, get divorces, sick, or in debt so bad that bankruptcy takes place. This becomes severe economic stress. 3) I agree 100% that same sex marriages should be able to have legally bound assets, especially if they have children together. â€Å"Widespread legal recognition of LGB-parent families will help foster acceptance of these families, ensure the protection of these via the provision of standard rights and benefits and promote the stability and security of LGB-parent families and their children, thereby contributing to their health and well being† (Goldberg, 2010, p.279).Not granting legal recognition also questions a couples ability to commit and their stability. 4) When immigrants live in an ethnic enclave they find it easier to cope with their surroundings and face less prejudice and discrimination. Women also find it easier to work because most can bring their child to work because most can bring their child to work with them. Although there are a lot of benefits within enclaves I don’t necessarily believe it will completely help a family with their problems. What if their child/children leave the enclave someday? Will they be prepared for the outside world? And what if the enclave was destroyed? I feel that they would have an easier time in the long run if they gradually introduced themselves to the outside world. When children become interpreters for serious matters such as applying for social service benefits, it is stressful for them. â€Å"In such a situation, children are likely to feel the stress of adult responsibilities, whereas their parents may feel the stress of role reversal that comes from relying on children for their survival and well being† (Bush et al., 2010, p.290).When children take on these tasks they are not allowed to mature normally and they can become more dependent than their parents. Children can also misinterpret language. For example, saying â€Å"she fell off a latter† when really meaning â€Å"she fell down the stairs†. Immigrant families adjust to their new home better when living in familiar surroundings. The communities can also give social support by making it easy to meet friends with similar experiences and backgrounds. How to cite Immigrant Families in the US, Essay examples

Corinthians Essay Example For Students

Corinthians Essay Corinthians, the seventh book of the NewTestament, was written by Paul to get across that Jesus isalive (15:3-18) and that we will be resurrected (15:35-38),among other things. Today there is no dispute that Paul isthe author of I Corinthians. Both external and the internalevidence for the Pauline authorship are so strong that thosewho attempt to show the apostle was not the writersucceed chiefly in proving their own incompetence ascritics.1 As internal evidence, Paul identifies himself as theauthor in 1 Corinthians 1:1 and 16:21. External evidence ofPaul writing this letter is supported by people such asClement of Rome (c. 95-97) and Augustine (c. 400). Theletter was written to the people of Corinth. Corinth was astrategically located Roman city on the main land routebetween East and West and was the crossroads for severalsea routes. Corinth was famous for its intellectual andmaterial prosperity and was honored with being the capitolof Ancaia. It also became famous for its corruptio n. Paulbegan his ministry there on his second missionary journey. He converted many influential people in Corinth, thus hestayed for a year and a half. Most likely, Paul left Corinth inthe fall of AD 51. Paul returned to Corinth on his third tripto Asia, c. fall, AD 52. Paul then wrote this letter fromEphesus while on his third trip to Asia. Paul wrote the letterseveral years after his initial departure from Corinth in thefall of AD 51-52. The letter was written before thebeginning of the summer since Paul intended to leaveEphesus after Pentecost. It was also written before wintersince Paul wanted to come to them and spend the winter. Paul wrote the letter four or five years after his initialdeparture from Corinth. Paul had many points that hewanted to get across in I Corinthians. For instance, thepurpose of the letter was to address problems in the localchurches of Corinth. Also, to counter worldly wisdom withSpiritual wisdom, and to answer questions that Corinthianshad brought to Paul. (7:1,25 8:1) Furthermore, he wantedto deal with the several moral problems and the divisionsthat had formed as people had divided into fan-clubs andwere proclaiming themselves followers of Paul, Apollo,Peter or Christ. During this time the Corinthian church hadmany problems. Most of these problems were the result ofpride and placing so much emphasis on social status. InCorinth there was a lack of church discipline and an abuseof the Christian liberty. Paul dealt with these problems oneby one, but the pinnacle of Pauls argument is in chapter 13where he emphasizes the importance of love. Love ofothers is incompatible with pride and is to be thefundamental principle that guides all actions. I Corinthianspoints out to me what I should do, and not do to become agood Christian. For instance, Paul lists many things that youshould not be in 6:9- 11. Paul also pointed out that Jesus infact did rise again, as he said he would, in 15:3-8. Hestates that Jesus came to him, and this gives us evidencethat Jesus stayed true to the Scriptures. Furthermore, Paultells us in 15:35- 38 that we will be resurrected. 1Robertson and Plummer, I Corinthians (ICC), xvi. Religion

Personality Theory in the Implementation of the Helping Process

Introduction In its simplest terms, personality refers to a dynamic and classified set of traits possessed by any person. A person’s personality is his or her distinctiveness. The characteristic of an individual uniquely affects his or her inspirations, cognitions, and conducts in various circumstances. Otherwise, neurologist Paul Roe came up with a more logical meaning of personality.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Personality Theory in the Implementation of the Helping Process specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More He defines personality as â€Å"an individual’s tendency to reflect certain patterns of ideas, thus holding to a specific pattern of behavior† (Nga Sears, 2010, p. 1457). The field of personality psychology extends from comparatively easy experimental findings, through variations between individuals to a relatively philosophical exploration of life. Nevertheless, personality philosophers seem much often concerned with the unities among the persons. Since a theory helps in controlling, comprehending, explicating and predicting the reality, personality theories are those theories, which try to categorize people into distinct groups in terms of traits. In studying personality, verbal models come in handy. The personality theories comprise of the Locus of control, Personal Construct Psychology (PCP), Humanistic, Bio-psychological, Psychoanalytic, behaviorist and social cognitive theories (Barker Gower, 2010, p. 297). The concern of the paper is in the latter: the social cognitive theory. In this theory, people describe the behavior as directed by the expectations in the world. Cognitive theories of personality accentuate the cognitive processes like judgments and thoughts. The paper seeks to discuss the applications of social cognitive theory in skills and techniques, communication, basic problem-solving, ethnic diversity and its establishments using the helping relationship. Skills and techniques In social cognitive theory, the behavioral ability gives the facts and skills required in forming the desired behavior thus promoting mastery studying. A person can easily learn and retain the skills acquired through observation (Bitektine, 2011, p. 155). The social cognitive theory clarifies the concepts under which people obtain and or uphold certain behavioral patterns. The significance of such sequence of patterns is inevitable in the acquisition and application of skills. Otherwise, it also provides the foundation for intervention techniques that equips an individual with the correct techniques of reaching a solution to a specified problem. Assessing behavioral changes relies on the environmental aspects and the people’s behavior. Social cognitive theory presents skills and methods for planning, applying and evaluating different programs (Shu-ling Lin, 2007, p. 602). The environmental issues that provide the framework for unde rstanding a behavior are ether physical or social. Moreover, the social cognitive theory comprehends the mental signs of the environment, which influence an individual’s behavior.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More People may not be able to have a good perception of time, places and physical activities especially if they do not have cognitive skills. The environment may not constantly influence a certain behavior. Instead, it stands a chance to provide models for behavior. ‘‘Observational learning occurs when an individual observes the deeds of another person and the reinforcements, which the person obtains’’ (Barker Gower, 2010, p. 299). The ability of one’s behavior suggests that if a person is to execute a given observed conducts, he or she must acquaint himself or herself with the skills of performing it. In teaching, modeling is ver y important. It gives an alternative way of shaping and teaching new ideas. Operant conditioning uses unreliable shaping unlike social cognitive theory where modeling provides a faster and a more efficient technique for teaching new behavior. Otherwise, to promote effective modeling, teachers should make sure ‘‘that attention, retention, motor reproduction, and motivation’’ exist (Nga Sears, 2010, p. 1460). Self-regulation systems often give an effective method for improving the behavior of student. Nurturing an individual’s acceptable conducts requires not only skills and techniques as provided by the theory, but also good life skills for retention for instance communication skills. Communication The Social cognitive theory is applicable to health communication because it deals with the poignant, cognitive and behavioral facets in understanding behavioral transmutations. The principles and concepts of the social cognitive theory provide techniques for innovative behavioral investigation in health education (Sheldon Kennedy, 2008, p. 390). For instance, patients may perhaps create questions, which communicate their distress to health practitioners. Moreover, doctors employ self-efficacy ideas of social cognitive theory in helping patients drop some undesired behaviors using internal controls. In health reports, the theory supposes that people are more willing to believe in the information from others with similar conditions. As a result, the pain they suffer from reduces. Social cognitive theory finds its application in marketing and mass media. For instance, in marketing, one can use celebrities ‘‘to endorse and introduce a given product to a certain demographics’’ (Bitektine, 2011, p. 159). The media also uses social cognitive theory to promote the improvement of socioeconomic status and education in the developing nations. The theory stems the intended and unintended media effects. In addressing t he issue, the theory illustrates the influences the media has in determining the audience actions and conducts.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Personality Theory in the Implementation of the Helping Process specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The media educates people on undesirable behaviors through entertainments and health campaigns (Wingreen Blanton, 2007, p. 630). Consequently, majority will not be willing to engage in risky activities as those associated with punishment. Otherwise, when the media airs a harmful action without consequences, it may only strengthen the unwanted behaviors. Therefore, there is the need for it to participate much in solving rather than enhancing the evident behavioral problems. Basic problem solving In social cognitive theory, a person transfers the skills and knowledge acquired to solving various problems. Learning is speeded up when a person is able to examine the beha viors of others who are comparable to them (Bitektine, 2011, p. 162). Since the materials are within the socio-cultural awareness of the user, learning experience becomes more successful thereby boosting the possibility of the knowledge used in solving basic problems. Social cognitive theory also provides tactics used to cope with problems related to stress. Otherwise, a stress can adversely affect a person especially if he or she is not vanished with solution to such effects. Learning occurs when a person reflects upon and internalizes his or her accomplishments and failures. For instance, an individual can easily read a book on driving a car; however, he or she completes the learning only if the learner really drives successfully (Barker Gower, 2010, p. 300). The social cognitive theory postulates that a person completes learning when he or she reaches a solution to the related challenges. Through social cognitive theory, the learner will identify his or her ability to complete a challenging task. The theory provides a system that permits the learner to apply the information correctly and consistently in solving a problem. Self-regulation allows a person to organize his or her response when faced with externally inflicted stimuli. In order for behavioral adjustments to occur, the person must receive the feedback. In a learning setup, feedback techniques reinforce a behavior such that if the conduct is undesirable, then it is stopped (Nga Sears, 2010, p. 1465). Otherwise, the feedback becomes more sophisticated as the learners’ ability improve, thus enabling them improve and master the task. For instance, if the problem is to learn how to drive, the leaner needs to get a car on the road and apply the speed limits and signaling to achieve some good driving habits.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Ethnic diversity People live in socio-cultural environment, which varies with their shared principles, conventions and social practices. Notwithstanding, they differ in their particular brands of individualism. Social cognitive theory compares the cultural differences from socialist to individualistic points of view. Moreover, the emotional mechanisms learnt in ‘‘a stimuli-response environment conducive to self-efficacy and observational learning remains facilitated by incorporating multimedia expressions of culturally responsive examples’’ (Shu-ling Lin, 2007, p. 605). In addition, the social cognitive theory helps in fostering good understanding between members of different ethnic backgrounds. Understanding and appreciating one’s culture creates harmonious existence of the people. As such, the complexity of the social problems reduces consequently due to the social theory. The diversity of the cultures makes them become dynamic social systems. The intercultural difference and intra-individual variation in the psychological orientation across the subject of functioning depicts cultural dynamism. The theory supposes that a person learns from others with similar traits (Barker Gower, 2010, p. 306). It thus seeks to find techniques of shaping human behavior in an advantageous manner. For instance, through social cognitive theory, schoolchildren learn desirable and undesirable social behaviors and morals by observing the conducts of different ethnic groups. The laxity and contextualization expresses the provisions of an individual’s behavior in a socially acceptable manner. Imitating and filtering values of a certain ethnic group is significant in promoting good morals in the society. Therefore, it encourages a communal life rather than eroding it. A person with ‘‘resilient efficacy and strong pro-social purpose often subordinates self-interest to the benefit of others’’ (Sheldon Kennedy, 2008, p. 392). For instance, parents in deprived environment with resilient source of efficiency decline to have their children development dictated by unfavorable circumstances. They therefore pass their influence on to things, which matter through imaginative effort and self-sacrifices. The adversities besiege people especially in an attempt to change their lives for the better through joint effort. Social cognitive conjecture eliminates dualism between personal action and ethereal collective configuration due to racial gusto. Since poverty is a socioeconomic aspect, which does not work in secluded causation, financial circumstances and family makeup influence behavior through their impacts on people’s sense of worth and aspirations. As people imitate the behavior of others, the theory promotes the spirit of sharing and peaceful coexistence of the groups. As a result, they nurture suitable methods of eradicating poverty-related problems. Establishments using the helping relations hip The ethics that and individual places on a given result and intrinsic motivation are very important. The significance of incentives in fostering a good can should be overemphasized. There are several opportunities ‘‘for self-monitoring, goal setting, problem solving, and self-reward’’ (Wingreen Blanton, 2007, p.643). Such prospects become important in understanding the relationship between the concepts. The social cognitive theory uses relationships that often relate to the societal problems. Precise and reliable approaches thus give solution to such challenges. The acquisition of behavior occurs by examination of the deeds and effects of others’ manners, which include realistic role models of the targeted group. A person’s action that changes the likelihood of reoccurrence promotes self-initiated incentives (Sheldon Kennedy, 2008, p. 396). He or she becomes confident in performing a particular behavior; by applying relationships and met hods, which ensure success. However, the negative relationships might still exist between the expected result and the presentation. Conclusion Social cognitive theory principally rejects behaviorism. As such, it decreases behaviorism from complex human conduct to simple cause and effect. Conversely, the propensity in times of yore has been to amalgamate the two into an ample speculation (Bitektine, 2011, p. 178). Notwithstanding, therapists employ the techniques from social cognitive and behaviorist theories to help their clients. Social cognitive theory is simply a subset of cognitive theory whose concerns is mostly on the manners in which people learn to model the behavior of others. Teachers and parents must model appropriate behaviors and take care that they do not model inappropriate behaviors. In education, teachers should expose learners to a range of models, which provide important techniques of smashing conformist stereotypes. The theory has various applications. The advert isements campaign in peer pressure circumstances uses social cognitive theory especially when reinforcing a certain acceptable behavior. In addition, it is helpful in the ‘‘treatment of psychological disorders including phobias’’ (Wingreen Blanton, 2007, p. 647). Social cognitive theory can also be helpful in ensuring successful AIDS campaign particularly with a suitable age group, proper gender and ethnicity. The adolescents will learn and understand because of peer influence. The conviction in a person’s personal ability often does not produce genuine assistances especially if the person requires a certain skill stage. Therefore, one cannot rely on a single theory to make a realistic conclusion of personality, as all the theories seem interrelated. References Barker, R., Gower, K. (2010). Strategic Application of Storytelling in Organizations: Toward Effective Communication in a Diverse World. Journal of business  Communication, 47(3), pp. 295 -312. Bitektine, A. (2011). Toward a Theory social Judgment of Organizations: The Case of Legitimacy, Reputation, and Status. Academy of Management Review, 36(1), pp. 151-179. Nga, E., Sears, G. (2010). The Effect of Adverse Impact in Selection Practices on Organizational Diversity. International Journal of Human Resource  Management, 21(9), pp. 1454-1471. Sheldon, L., Kennedy, E. (2008). Application of a model of Social Information Processing Nursing Theory: How Nurses Respond to Patients. Journal of  Advanced Nursing, 64(4), pp. 388-398. Shu-ling, W., Lin, S. (2007). The Application of Social Cognitive Theory to web-based Learning through Net Ports. British Journal of Educational Technology, 38(4), pp. 600-612. Wingreen, S., Blanton, J. (2007). A social Cognitive Interpretation of Person-Organization fitting: The Maintenance and Development of Professional Technical Competency. Human Resource Management, 46(4), pp.631-650. This research paper on Personality Theory in the Implementation of the Helping Process was written and submitted by user Abdiel Gentry to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

How to Use Footnotes and Endnotes

How to Use Footnotes and Endnotes How to Use Footnotes and Endnotes Footnotes and endnotes both let you add extra information in an essay or college paper. But what should you include in these notes? And when should you use them? In this post, we run through everything you need to know about using footnotes and endnotes in academic writing. What Are Footnotes and Endnotes? Footnotes appear at the bottom or â€Å"foot† of the page. You can therefore put extra information in a footnote, such as source details for a citation, without interrupting the flow of the main text. To indicate a footnote, you can add a superscript number to the text, such as at the end of this sentence.1 These numbers then correspond to numbered notes at the bottom of the page. A footnote or three. Endnotes are like footnotes, but they appear together at the end of the document rather than at the bottom of each page. Endnotes are thus less immediately accessible for the reader than footnotes, but they can help ensure that pages with multiple notes don’t become cluttered. If you are not sure which to use, check your style guide for advice. Footnotes and Endnotes in Microsoft Word To insert a footnote or endnote in a Microsoft Word document, you need to: Go to References Footnotes on the main ribbon Select either Insert Footnote or Insert Endnote as required Type your note in the newly created footnote/endnote Footnote tools in MS Word. You can also customize the style of footnotes and endnotes by clicking on the arrow in the bottom right of the Footnotes section of the References tab (or by going to Insert Footnotes in Word for Mac). This will open a new window where you can select your preferred formatting options. When to Use Footnotes and Endnotes The main uses of footnotes and endnotes are as follows: To add a footnote citation in referencing systems such as MHRA and Chicago, with full source information also given in a bibliography at the end of the document. Endnotes are also used for citations in some systems, such as in IEEE or Vancouver referencing, where numbers in the text point to an entry in a reference list at the end of the document. To add non-essential commentary on something in the main text of your document. For example, if your research has raised an interesting question that is not directly relevant to your current work, you could mention it in a footnote or endnote. This lets you acknowledge the question – showing the reader that you haven’t simply ignored or failed to notice it – but without interrupting the flow of prose in the main document. Keep in mind, too, that some referencing systems use in-text parenthetical citations. As such, you should only reference a source in a footnote or endnote if your school has asked you to do it this way. Do Notes Count Towards the Word Limit? We’re often asked whether to include footnotes and endnotes in the word count for papers. Different schools have different rules about this, so you will have to check your style guide. However, you should never use these supplementary notes to cheat the word count. The key here is that essential information should never go in a footnote or endnote. If you do move vital evidence or analysis to a note, the person marking your work may ignore it. And reducing the word count is never more important than putting forward a full, coherent argument. If you do need to reduce the word count in an essay, you have other options, such as rewriting wordy sentences or cutting repetition. Having your work proofread is a great way to ensure that your writing is always clear and concise, too, so let us know if you’d like any help.

Bruce Dawe

The poet’s role is to challenge the world the see around them. ’ How far is this true for the poetry of Bruce Dawe? How (ie through what techniques) Does Dawe achieve this? Discuss a maximum of 2 poems. Bruce Dawe is one of the most inspirational and truthful poets of our time. Born in 1930, in Geelong, most of Dawe’s poetry concerns the common person – his poems are a recollection on the world and issues around him. The statement ‘The poet’s role is to challenge the world they see around them. Is very true for Bruce Dawe, as his main purpose in his poetry was to depict the unspoken social issues concerning the common Australian suburban resident. His genuine concern for these issues is evident through his mocking approach to the issues he presents in two of his longer poems, ‘Enter without so much as Knocking’ and ‘Life-cycle’. Both poems have a similar theme the cycle of life, the mass-production and lack of unique ness. ‘Enter without so much as Knocking’ shows how consumerism has a negative impact on society. The poem depicts the life of a typical man, living in the suburbs. It starts off with the birth of a child. The sentences are intentionally made short and clear. As the baby begins to conceive the world he has been brought into, he sees signs, commands and expectations. Dawe stresses the point that the first thing that the baby heard was a voice of consumerism on television, as opposed to the voices of his family. The baby has been brought into a materialistic world – a world where such an important event has just occurred, a new member of the family has been born, and yet the television is on and Bobby Dazzler is preaching his false cliches to the household. Hello, hello, hello all you lucky people† Followed by a comment highlighting the innocence of the child – Bobby Dazzler’s false heartiness and slogans do not influence the child. ‘and he really was lucky because it didnt mean a thing to him then’ Dawe believes that the child is lucky because he knows nothing of this repetitive deceit of civilisation. The theme really starts to come through here – these people are brainwashed by television so much so that consumerism is a religion for them. He is ferociously denouncing suburban life and the fact that people worship the television set. In the next stanza his family is described. The household is described with terms that we see as marketing slogans – â€Å"Well-equipped, smoothly-run, economy-size† These terms give the feeling of mass production – just as well-equipped, smoothly-run, economy-size cars, these sorts of households must have been very common. Again the fact that these people lack individuality is being focused on and it is disputed whether this is correct. The rest of the family are presented as stereotypes. â€Å"one economy sized Mum, one Anthony Squires- Coolstream – Summerweight Dad, along with two other kids, Straight off the Junior Department rack. Every aspect of this family is described in a sexist, impersonal, monotonous manner. His siblings aren’t described by their sex or age – they are just summarised as children who wear the same clothes as everyone else. and regulations imposed upon him everywhere he goes. The purpose of this stanza was to show that the car journey described in it is a fairly accurate representation of this boy’s life. The first sign of any emotion in the poem is â€Å"He enjoyed†, the child’s opinion, in the fourth stanza. He is challenging this world of people with iced-over emotions. The child is still innocent in this stage of his life – he is enthralled by nature, uninfluenced by material things, and not staring into the screen watching people make â€Å"incomprehensible and monstrous love† as all of the adults are. Children are innocent until we pollute their minds with the filth of society is what Dawe is saying. Owen describes the sky as â€Å"Littered with stars†, ironically, as the stars are pure and not soiled with the filth of mankind. Thus by saying the sky is littered with stars, he is taking the point of view of society – the fact that they would want to bring order and conformity to everything. These stars are scattered across the sky in an unorderly fashion, and â€Å"no one had got around to fixing [them] up yet†. He is highlighting that society takes beautiful, unadulterated natural things and pollutes them with their rules and regulations. Moving from childhood to the middle ages in but a few lines, highlighting that it’s not worth entioning the rest of his childhood, as it was all had too much of a resemblance to what has already been said. There is a quick and noticeable change of tone as the man is described as a â€Å"money-hungry†, â€Å"back stabbing† and â€Å"miserable†, no longer the image of innocence as he was portrayed in the first 4 stanzas. Not guarded by adolescence any more, he enters the real world and is instantly polluted with the filth of society. He says goodbye to the stars – their natural splendour no longer interests him, he is now a part of the materialistic world. He will no longer show any emotion, and he is now ‘realistic’, in other words, fake. The following dialogue is a symbol of the man’s beliefs, what he has been taught and what he now accepts morally. â€Å"I’m telling you straight, Jim, it’s Number One every time for this chicken, hit wherever you see a head and kick whoever’s down† The basic message behind this dialog is the fact that you have to get your own way in life – thinking of no-one else but yourself. Use people, backstab, kick them when they’re down – everything is justified as long as you end up on top. Bruce Dawe notices that a large percentage of the population live by these morals, and he is showing through the example of this man how futile such a materialistic life really is. An abrupt change in the dialog and we hear the words of the man thanking a woman, Clare, for a lovely evening. The readers hold their breath, thinking that maybe there still is some humanity left in this man who has just said such harsh words. But in the sixth stanza it is revealed that he was merely being two-faced and fake. He is in the car with his wife. There are no signs of affection, his wife is just like another possession to him. I’ve had enough for one night, with that Clare Jessup,† Here he reveals the truth – a total opposite of what he told Clare herself. Or perhaps this too is not the truth, and he is also lying to his wife in order to gain sympathy. At the end of the paragraph Dawe abruptly stops the man in mid sentence and leaves only a dash, showing how quickly and sudde nly one can lose ones life. In the seventh paragraph the true extent of people’s brainwash is underlined. Such a tragic event has just occurred, and the funeral guests pay attention to only the materialist aspects of his death. They notice that he looks very good, tanned, healthy. This could also be a paradox for the fact that what people look like on the outside can be the opposite of what they are – the insincerity in society. The unsympathetic guests are emotionless and fake, just like he was. Dawe then describes the place the man goes after death as an underground metropolis – underground hinting that due to his dishonest nature and lack of morals he went to hell. â€Å"permanent residentials, no parking tickets, no taximeters ticking, no Bobby Dazzlers here, no down payments, nobody grieving over halitosis† It is a place with none of the materialistic beliefs that litter this world. It is imposed that people in our world grieve over halitosis, or bad breath, but as we saw at the funeral, do not grieve over death. He’s six feet down and nobody’s interested – they’re all too busy going about their own selfish, self-centred lives. â€Å"Blink, Blink. . Silence. † The last word is not done in block letters, as all of the other signs – because it is not a sign. There is silence in the cemetery already, and there is no-one to hush up there. â€Å"Momento, homo, quia pulvis es, et in pulverem reverteris†¦Ã¢â‚¬  A definition of this epigraph is very important to the moral of this poem. Remember, man, that thou art dust, and unto dust thou shalt return. † This ties in with the theme of this man’s whole life going past, and having no impact on the world. Having lost his individuality, he fitted in with society only when he gave into mass-conformity and consumerism. The futile cycle of human lives in a materiali stic world is portrayed in this poem, underlining all of the shallowness and facades in society. It is clear that Bruce Dawe’s purpose in writing this poem was to challenge this cycle that he observed, and to show people, through only a few moments in a person’s life, the extreme of this problem. Blinded by materialistic things this man sacrificed his morals and ethics, no longer caring for his fellow humans, or for nature. And neither did those around him. Dawe is showing us how lonely and emotionless a person’s life can really be. The other poem, ‘Life-cycle’, is one of his well-known poems that deals with how Victorians are influenced by football. It ridicules the fact that football for people has become like a religion. Not speaking of a specific event as in ‘Enter without so Much as Knocking’, this poem describes the general cycle of life of a resident of Victoria. From birth people are encouraged to barrack for their teams, and build a life around football. This ‘religion’ is implied on the ‘innocent monsters’ by their parents and surroundings. â€Å"they are wrapped in the club-colours, laid in beribboned cots, having already begun a lifetime’s barracking† Dawe is showing that this will be the purpose of the child’s life. He will grow up living breathing football, and worshipping it without giving a second thought to the true purpose of life. Using simple structure and simple language, he is able to best convey his morals to the common people that it affects. Gently mocking people with his vibrant expression of the game, with Christian symbolism he compares it to the bible – highlighting that it is, but shouldn’t be regarded of the same importance as Christianity. â€Å"They will forswear the Demons, cling to the saints and behold their team going up the ladder into Heaven† Dawe describes the actual important things in life – marriage, proposals, as just a sidetrack to football, done quickly in between games. Football is the focus of these people’s lives – anything else is merely a diversion to football and should be taken care of quickly so that they can get back to the game. the reckless proposal after the one-point win, the wedding and the honeymoon after the grand-final†¦Ã¢â‚¬  We almost begin to pity these poor people, to whom living their lives has taken second place in importance to football. By using triumphant words such as ‘behold’ ‘passion’ and ‘em pyrean’ Dawe is showing great sarcasm, as he did with the Christian symbolism. It is like he is asking the readers why football is now as important to the Victorians as their religion, and highlighting the fact that it is not supposed to be like this. having seen in the six-foot recruit from Eaglehawk their hope of salvation† Bruce Dawe purposefully makes the last word of the poem salvation. This word, generally associated with heaven, and the fact that living a good, Christian life will lead to our salvation and we will go to heaven, not hell. But it is not from God that these people gain their salvation – they see salvation in the recruit, the strong football player who has come to play for their team and could bring the team victory. With that Dawe makes obvious the skewed priorities of these people, and how futile and pointless their existence is. Carn, carn’ they cry, from birth unto death, never knowing anything else, never living. We can see by Dawe’s techniques and words in both of these poems that his main purpose was to open the public’s eyes to the mishaps of society. He challenges society, pointing out all of the injustices and hardships that ordinary people face every day. He shows us how we can become selfish and materialistic, and how we can become so involved in something that we no longer recognise the beauties of life and nature. He makes these morals accessible to all people through his simple poetry, communicating his ideas and ethics accurately.

Tourism and Holiday Leisure Design Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Tourism and Holiday Leisure Design - Essay Example The basic design of the tourism and holiday leisure product has to take into consideration the size of the product on offer, the facilities available and/or the quantity and level of services. This is to say that the tourism design package can either be big or small depending mainly on the tastes of the customers. The type of facilities available will also determine how the tourism product is designed. For instance, if the facilities are world-classes and top of the range tourist sites, then the design should reflect this. In some places the level of tourism services is very low while in some areas it is quite high. Therefore, the design of the tourism leisure product or service is likely to differ depending on the priority of tourism in a particular area (Williams and Buswell, 2003). The presentation of the tourism product available in a particular place will depend on the standard of services available. To keep people interested in the tourism package on offer, the standards of ser vice must also be high. Good services in the tourism sector are very important as they determine how well people respond to the tourism offers. If the services are poor, then most likely people will avoid that particular tourism destination and opt for one where they will get satisfactory services. Most product designs in the tourism sector include a wide range of vacation options. Also included in the designs of most travel and tour packages is consumer protection. Vacationers are normally out to enjoy themselves and the problem of insecurity is usually the last thing they would want to deal with (Pikketmaat and Weiermair, nd).  

Is the Claim that PRSPs Increase National Ownership of Programmes Assignment

Is the Claim that PRSPs Increase National Ownership of Programmes through Extensive Participation Substantiated in Specific Country Contexts - Assignment Example The adoption by local governments of policies advanced by international donor organizations like the IMF and World Bank often leaves doubt about the amount of relevance that they have for the states represented by these local governments. Ownership can be considered as influenced by the extent to which the PRSP reflects policies tailored to fit the needs of the individual country, and this might be seen as indicative of the amount of involvement (at all levels of the society) granted the nation in its compilation.   Previous attempts at formulating written strategies for reducing poverty (such as the Policy Framework Paper) had resulted in almost the entire document’s being drafted by the IFI in question (Piron & Evans, 2004). The PRSP differs in that it must be drafted by the country hoping to receive the grant or debt cancellation. Ownership can be called into question on more than one level. First, ownership by the local government can be questioned because of the nature of the document. The fact that grants and debt cancellations are dependent on its completion and approval by the IFI raises doubts as to whether the policies represented will originate with and reflect the needs of the recipient government and not the donor groups. Doubts also arise concerning the extent to which the nation as a whole may be said to own the PRSP, as internal frictions and disjointedness within the levels of government as well as between and among local non-governmental organizations may also prevent the document’s being representative of the different levels and sections of society. The meaning of the term â€Å"participation† is also relevant in the consideration of ownership of PRSP’s. Participation can range from cursory and superficial consultation of the local governments on the one hand, to (on the other hand) the empowerment of that government by entrusting it with a decision-making part in the process.

Friars dress Essay Example for Free

Friars dress Essay Chaucer pays close attention to the richness of the Friars dress with: lyk a maister or pope, of double worstede was his semycope.. Even so, the Frairs appearance is innocent and pure his nekke whit was as the flour-de-lys. And althoughthis is all that is given of his physical appearance it implies that he is even more dangerous as he is a wolf in sheeps clothing and hence almost devil-like. This imagery is echoed in the monks description: He is intimating, a manly man who is ful fat and in good point, which suggests of his luxury lifestyle. The narrator is obviously intimidated by him saying And I seyed his opinion was good implying that he was afraid to oppose him and therefore indicating that the monk appears to be a man capable of standing up for himself to quite an extent, hence silencing others, who dont want to test this capability! The image of an aggressive and imposing figure does not go hand in hand with that of a monk. Indeed, the narrator states ; his eyen stepe, and rollinge in his head, that stemed as a forney of a leed. This imagery also suggests a devil-like connotation that is clearly hyperbole, but must have had a great effect on the narrator for him to use it. The sense of the varied Medevil society in trios vocation is only suble, i.e. the first stays in a convent, anther preaches about God and the last one can take confession. But where the sense of variet is more evident is in the fact that the extent to which they mix up, or rather become confused between their duty to god and their love of the more material world and its pleasures. Here the main contrast between the characters is the strength of criticism. I.e. The prioress only receives slight criticisms of minor faults but on the whole it is delivered with affection and used to poke fun at her. But the portrait of the Friar presents us with a cynically ironic view on the way that the smarmy, sly and selfish villain works. Also, the trios priorites for God become less pronounced as we move down the list of portraits. The prioress seems to think of herself as a courtly romantic saviour, but it is presented as a cute little nuance, and the monk who would rather be having fun than doing boring jobs that will turn him wood. But the reader feels that it is understandable and rather a humane reaction. But the Friar is positively working against God and defeating society.

Epic of Beowulf :: Epic of Beowulf Essays

As the welcoming celebration for Beowulf goes on, Unferth begins to ridicule Beowulf about his swimming competition with Breca. Unferth is jealous and feels threatened by Beowulf " for he would not allow that any other man of middle-earth should ever achieve more glory under the heavens than himself." (Norton p. 33) Unferth is a very peculiar character. Although he has committed the horrific crime of killing his brother(s), he is privileged enough to sit at the feet of the king, a very respected position. His sin,an enormous violation of the comitatus, suggests that there is something wrong in Hrothgar's kingdom and perhaps helps to foreshadow its destruction. Ultimately, it will be destroyed, as the text says, by a fire after " sword-hate between son-in-law and father-in-law to awaken after murderous rage." (Norton p. 28). Unferth tries to put Beowulf down by saying that Beowulf once risked his life for pride and foolish boast. He also points out that Breca has beaten Beowulf in the swimming and that he therefore expects him to lose the fight with Grendel as well. Unferth is arrogant, obnoxious and the only one who challenges Beowulf. However, later when Beowulf fights with Grendel's mother, Unferth lends him his sword. This can be seen as a noble gesture, and a redemption of Unferth for the way he has behaved. However, it can also provide further proof of Unferth's incompetence as a warrior. Because he is scared to fight himself, he passes on his sword to Beowulf. Beowulf answers Unferth's words of envy with his side of the story. He says that Unferth is drunk and obviously knows nothing about the competition. Continuing, Beowulf explains that he won the contest despite the heavy attack by sea-monsters. From this story, we see further proof of Beowulf's supernatural powers. The competition occurs during the winter in the freezing water, yet Beowulf is able to swim for five nights armed with a heavy sword, in full armor and mail . When the battle is over, Beowulf finds himself on the shore lying next to nine sea monsters that he killed with his sword and modestly attributes his victory to both courage and fate. His comment that, " Fate often saves an undoomed man when his courage is good" (Norton p. 34) shows his belief that 'Fate' will forever govern him and aid him as long as he is courageous.

Nightmare

â€Å"Do not forget to wash your legs before going to bed! † my mother used to tell me almost every night if I were at home. Noon might get a nightmare. † I never believed her until it happened to me. It was on a night at my hostel Sole Slash, when all of my housemates were going back home as It was a three-day weekend. Since my house was In Pang and it took about 4 hours to get there, I decided to stay here alone. Moreover, there were tons of assignments need to be done. I was preparing the slides for my book review presentation when all of sudden there was a blackout and It was totally dark.Only God knew how I felt on that particular moment. Thank God, It was only for only about 15 minutes. I continued finishing my slides then. I kept on doing my assignment without bothering to look at the clock. Finally, I feel very contented as the slides had done beautifully and creatively by me. I wanted to do other assignments but when I glanced at the clock, It was already three In the morning! I realized that I was really exhausted and my eyes needed some rest after hours staring at the laptop screen. I turned off the laptop and went straight into my darkened room without brushing teeth and washing legs.With the help of the dim light from the street lamp nearby my room, I saw a figure sleeping on my bed. As I got nearer, the figure suddenly threw away the blanket, got up and stared at me. It was an old woman with shiny gold teeth. She raised her claw-like fingers and walked towards me. I ran to the outside where there was a badminton court. My surroundings were slowly starting to melt: the trees, the hostel blocks around me, the sky and the pathway to a garage. It seemed that I was about to dissipate as well, becoming a puddle of glue-like substance left on the ground. I noticed the creepy old woman was already behind me.I wanted to run but was unable to. I tried to scream but found that I could not. In horror I struggled and struggled to get away from the frightful woman. She dragged me to a creepy room and I was tied on a bed that looked like similarly my bed. She then went outside of the room and sang, sang, sang continuously. Soon I drifted off into a troubled sleep. I kept hearing the woman's voice even in my sleep. The next moment I gave a muffled yell and found myself panting on my bed. I heard someone was singing happily and when I went to take a look, it was Sarah who was doing her assignment on my study desk.My goodness, what a horrible nightmare it was! Sarah wished me good morning and told me that I slept with the door unlocked so she went In and found that I was still sleeping. â€Å"You look so pale. Are you okay? † she asked me. For a minute or so I lay on the sofa not daring to close my eyes for fear of falling asleep again and continuing the nightmare. Then I sat up on my bed until the horrible feeling passed. From then on I never went to sleep without washing my legs. Nightmare By Sylvania almost every night if I were at home. Mimi might get a nightmare. † I never believed her until it happened to me.It was on a night at my hostel Sole Cassia, when all of my housemates were going back home as it was a three-day weekend. Since my house was in Pang and it took about 4 hours to get there, I decided to stay here and it was totally dark. Only God knew how I felt on that particular moment. Thank God, it was only for only about 15 minutes. I continued finishing my slides then. I kept other assignments but when I glanced at the clock, it was already three in the light from the street lamp nearby my room, I saw a figure sleeping on my bed. As I got slept with the door unlocked so she went in and found that I was still sleeping.

Catfish and Mandala

The American novelist Thomas Wolfe once wrote, â€Å"You can't go home again†. Andrew Pham proved that wrong. â€Å"Andrew X. Pham, who came to the United States when he was ten years old as a ‘boat person,' returned to Vietnam 20 years later on an extended bike trip in order to understand better his cultural identity† (Pearl 208). Despite the fact that Pham, like so many others of his generation, were forced to flee Vietnam, somehow they never lost the sense of identity with the homeland they only remembered as children. Pham, as an insightful writer, decided it was time for him to find out if there still exists a bridge between him as a Viet-American and his homeland. Pham travels to Vietnam to search for his roots in hopes to construct his identity. For Pham in the search of his identity he flies to Vietnam to ride his bike, and also to find his roots. As he first gets off the airplane he is already is immediately receiving dirty aware of others who looks at him disdainfully because he is a â€Å"viet-kieu† which means foreign Vietnamese. Then as he is at the baggage claim while retrieving his luggage, to his amazement he sees the workers tear up his bike that had been stuck in the claim belt. That hit a soft spot in him because that bike had been through so much with Pham. From then on his impressions of Vietnamese people were bad, He developed a negative impression of Vietnamese people and he automatically thought of them as a lower class persons than Americans human than he was. Pham in order to go back to his roots needs to humble himself as a true Vietnamese. Then he will understand his identity and appreciate his culture.

The Company of Wolves Research Paper Example

The Company of Wolves Research Paper Example The Company of Wolves Paper The Company of Wolves Paper Essay Topic: Beauty and the Beast and Other Tales In The Company of Wolves the distinction made between man and wolf is based upon, the wolf is the worst for he cannot listen to reason. (p. 111) The forest the wolf inhabits represents an intermediary between the natural and unnatural worlds and it is between the portals of the great pines (p. 111) that the danger lies. It is the apparent danger and inherent fears of the intermediate grey areas that allows Carter to use these realms as the centres for her subversive discourse. The wolf may be more than he seems, (p.111) for in his human form he also represents the peril that is the naked man (! ) The emphasis in this tale resting on the masculinity of the wolf. The wolf is carnivore incarnate,'(p. 110) a phrase repeated three times in the tale, thus the predator/prey relationship between the man and woman is focused upon and subverted when it is the adolescent girl who encourages the sexual encounter with the wolf. By actively burning his clothes she condemn [s] him to wolfishness (p. 113) a state, which to the girl seems preferable to manishness. Alice and the girl in The Company of Wolves both reside in the realms between childhood and adulthood, on the brink of sexual maturity; between the virgin-child and the fallen woman of Perraults tale. Red Riding Hood ripped (p. 118) off the wolfs shirt and despite the fact that the old bones under the bed set up a terrible clattering she did not pay them any heed. (p. 118) In some aspect of the adaptation the girl has outwolfed the wolf. She will lay his fearful head on her lap, (p. 118) the ambiguity lying in where the fear dwells, is the wolf now afraid of her assertive sexuality? An image strikingly different from her initial presentation, She is an unbroken egg; she is a sealed vessel; she has inside her a magic space the entrance to which is shut tight with a plug of membrane. (p. 114) Egg, membrane, all serving to demonstrate the fragility and precarious stability of her situation, similar to Beautys glass bed in The Courtship of Mr Lyon. In contrast wolf-Alice already inhabits a world of sexual immediacy,'(p. 119) that the young girl has just entered, permitted by her wolf-like existence. The association between the animalistic and sensual working both when the wolf is masculine and feminine. The onset of menstruation in Alice serves to bring her into the human realm through her awareness of time, she discovered the very action of time by means of this returning cycle. (p. 123) Adolescence makes Alice no more or less of a sexual being than her animalistic associations have already allowed. Gamble notes that the virginity of the Beauty and Red Riding Hood figures, Constitute both her particular vulnerability and her peculiar defiance. It is what marks her out as the lycanthropes prey, as the shedding of her hymeneal blood is what he specifically desires. She argues that the girls actual pursuit of the sexual threat is necessary in order for her to develop from her virginal state. Her declaration that she is nobodys meat (p. 118) demonstrating this neither submissive nor aggressive11 pursuit of maturation. The presentations of virginity and femininity represent a change whereby the women are no longer gobbled up or passively taken by male sexuality, but meet on equal sexual terms. Carters representation refuses the Wholesome or pretty picture of female gender (nurturing, caring) and deal [s] plainly with erotic dominance as a source of pleasure for men and for women. 12 Warner argues that it is Beautys attraction to the beast before his metamorphosis that represents the most disturbing image of the story, the attraction of the feminine to the monstrosity of the other. The first connection between Beauty and Mr Lyon requires a transformation of her beliefs on the nature of the other, with a flood of compassion, understood: all he is doing is kissing my hands. (p. 47) Yet Carter does not present this alteration naively, she saw, with an indescribable shock, he went on all fours. (p. 47) Beautys metamorphosis is more gradual than the transformation of the Beast. Through her vanity, Beauty also possesses an element of monstrosity. Carters fashioning of the tales raises the question about the nature of beastliness and the true location of monstrosity. The original sources represented a difficulty in ascertaining friend from enemy, the normal from the monstrous, traditionally established through demonising these figures. 13 Carters interpretations of monstrosity and demonisation, initially, dared to look at womens waywardness, and especially at their attraction to the beast in the very midst of their repulsion. The presentation of an attraction to beastliness serves to deconstruct the marginalisation inherent in the original tales. The monstrosity of the wolf and the beast is replaced by that of grandmothers, fathers and the heroine herself. And what, I wondered, might be the exact nature of his beastliness? (p. 55) Yet the Beast himself shows no evidence of beastly behaviour. Her father a feckless sprig of the Russian nobility,'(p. 52) whose gaming whoring agonising repentances,'(p.52) killed Beautys mother is criticised more than the noble beast, who in his appeal to see Beauty naked wishes to see her true self beneath the artificiality of her clothing. Carter uses her examination of the location of monstrosity to investigate identity and individuality in a genre associated with stereotypes. Carter makes sense of the disparity between this contradiction through her understanding of the mercurial slipperiness of identity, as well as the need to secure meanings. 15 Carters fairy tales represent struggles and inner conflict her characters need to overcome in order to secure their identity and enter a true existence. Brewer suggests that this exploration is most successful when depicting processes of maturation, emotional maturation through the Beauty characters, coupled with the physical and sexual maturation of the Red Riding Hood figures. Carter extends the sense of individuality of Beauty in The Tigers Bride, through her use of the first person narrator, combining the narrative of the narrator with Her own prose, [which] was glitteringly, self mockingly hybrid, contrived and slangy at once, mandarin and vulgar, romantic and cynical. 17 In the same way as the narrative is hybridised, the tales are a combination of modernity and traditionalism, individuality and stereotypes, a modern view on the traditional discussions of identity. In The Tigers Bride the concentration of mirrors, images and unexpected reflections create the basis for Beautys quest to reconcile her confused identity. When Beauty looks in the mirror she sees the true vision of beastliness in the story, I saw within it not my own face but that of my father, as if I had put on his when I arrived Now all I saw was myself, haggard from a sleepless night. (p. 60) Beauty takes on the identity of her father in the paying of his debt. Warner suggests that Carter was fascinated with female impersonation and disguise. Similarly to Beautys confusion of identity, the beast also disguises himself in a mask, But one with too much formal symmetry of feature to be entirely human: one profile of his mask is a mirror image of the other, to perfect, uncanny. (p. 53) The beast adopts his disguise to make himself socially acceptable, to dispel his otherness. However, its perfection serves to isolate him more, he becomes uncanny. His identity becomes too slippery, Beauty can no longer simply label him as The Beast. The beast provides Beauty with the mirror image of herself in the form of the automaton, She is a marvellous machine, the most delicately balanced system of cords and pulleys in the world. (p. 60) A description one could easily apply to Beauty herself; the image of Beauty expected by her father and the patriarchal society, the element of control lying in the key in her side, to perform the part of my fathers daughter. (p. 65) Daughterhood becomes a role to be acted out. Otherness becomes acceptable to the father if it is conformist and obedient, as a robot. The moment of metamorphosis or the moment the disguise is removed represents the solidifying of identity and individuality. The metamorphosis of the Beasts changes their positions in society; the revealing of the wolf affects the identity of the girl, The granny bonnet, the wolf mask have offered a helpful disguise to some of the boldest spirits. The revealing of the wolf manifests a choice of situations for the girl, assimilation with otherness and individuality, the grasping of her own sexuality, or her allegiance with the mass culture of those who inhabit the areas outside the forest. For Mr Lyon, metamorphosis allows him and Beauty to join the domestic suburban life of modern civilisation, in his transformation he chooses Red Riding Hoods second option. In The Tigers Bride, Beautys revelation of her nakedness and her transmutation represent her maturation into her sexual role and her acceptance of otherness.

Political issues Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Political issues - Research Paper Example On the other hand, the UK has its monarch acting as the head of state; however, supreme authority is not vested unto the monarch because there is a separate head of the government elected by the people who exercise political powers. Just like in the US, these leaders espouse a set of laws found in the constitution (Storey, 87). This paper discusses the different between government systems of the US and the UK, as well as other countries referring to three articles. 1. Szilagyi, Ilona Maria. "Presidential versus parliamentary systems." AARMS Vol. 8, No. 2 (2009): 307–314. Notably, the founding fathers who wrote the US constitution had the British political system to draw on; however, they avoided any form of concentrated power that resembled the monarchy because it is one of the chief things that they rebelled against. Nonetheless, there are a few similarities between the two political systems. Both the British and the US forms of government have a head of state, upper and lowe r house, and a court system. The two have constitutions that depict the rules for government as well as the rights their people have. Both political systems are democratic in nature; there are firm checks and balances in place to inhibit the power of any one branch. Both governments can be put in place and can be removed from power depending on the will of the people. The president in the US political system is the legitimate head of state elected as part of the Electoral College (Watts, 312). United Kingdom have the King or Queen as the legitimate head of state while the prime minister handles political matters and is the legitimate head of government. Officially, UK’s head of state signs off any act of parliament and delivers the Speech from the throne written by the prime minister. In most modern governments, the monarch plays the part of a ceremonial figurehead thus it is atypical for members of the royal family to directly get in the way of the country’s political process. The upper house in the US is the Senate while the UK has the House of Lords. Each state under the US system of governance, despite the size, has two senate members. Before, the governor of the state used to appoint senators but these days they get to be elected by the people to serve 6-year terms. The House of Lords is quite different. They are not elected by the people. In addition, the House of Lords appoint 792 members basing on inheritance, or their title in the Church of England (Harris, 231). They are never elected and cannot be removed from office by popular vote. Nonetheless, they serve the same purpose as the US senate (Szilagyi, 310). They debate, discuss and vote on legislation passed by the lower house in the legislative branch. The British House of Commons and the US House of Representative draw on a lot of similarities. Each house comprises representative elected by the people. Control of the lower house is given to the party that carries the most number of s eats. Under the UK system of governance, the party with majority members produces the prime minister who is then the party leader becomes the Speaker of the House. Elections are also different in the two forms of government. The prime minister under the parliamentary system can go to the crown and ask to dissolve the parliament at any given point. Thereafter, an election would follow. An election would also be eminent if the Prime Minster lost the confidence of the house. 2. Mcquire,

A Visit of Charity Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

A Visit of Charity - Research Paper Example In her 92 years, she wrote a couple of short stories, novels, essays, photographs, and one children's article. Welty makes use of her gift in literacy to convey concern to human huddles such as old age, illness, ignorance and poverty (Rags 1). These can be viewed in her short narrative, A Visit of Charity. In the narrative, Welty incites thoughts concerning selfishness, negligence, dehumanization, and callousness with the use of an ironic tone. The name itself is rather an irony (Rags 1). Charity refers to showing humanity, kindness, and social ethics toward individuals in need. However, neither the central character Marian nor society observes these principles. This article will analyze the short story, A Visit of Charity by Eudora Welty to explain its ironies. A Visit of Charity is an account about a 14 year-old girl, Marian, who goes to visit two elderly women in a nursing residence (Rags 1). The aim of her trip is to gain three points for her marks in Campfire Girl. By taking a p otted plant to the nursing residence, she can get an extra one mark, or a double point is added up if she takes a bible and reads it to the elderly women. Marian takes the bible with her a potted plant (McCartney 1). In the nursing residence, she is surprised by the inferior locality and two complaining old women. Throughout her short stay, she is strange, and her mind cannot work appropriately. She drops the abilities to see, think, hear clearly and speak. She has a strong desire to flee from this bizarre place, and from the strange elderly ladies. At the end, she leaves a weeping elderly lady and a prayerful old lady untouched. She digs up an apple she has buried under a tree and hurries to take the bus to go to her home (WriteWork 1). The narrative happens on an extremely freezing winter day at a nursing residence (WriteWork 1). The structure is portrayed as beaten block and it revealed the winter sun like a block of ice. It is redecorated by spiky dark hedge plants. These scenar ios imply the lack of warmth and affection from a society towards isolated elderly citizens in the nursing residence. Marian is the central character of the story (McCartney 1). She is portrayed as a self-centered individual. She is disturbed about the development of her Campfire Girl points more than everything. Her stopover is evidently hypocritical when she informs the nurse at the reception desk that she is a Campfire Girl and that she wants to pay a visit to a couple of elderly women. When the nurse poses whether Marian is familiar with any women there, she reply, no, however, she says that most of the women there will recognize her (McCartney 1). The potted plant is more proof that illustrates Marian’s self-interest. Rather than taking fruits or other more sincere and sensible gift, Marian opts to take a potted plant that can get her one extra mark. Nevertheless, compared to the earlier campfire girl who took a bible in her trip, Marian is thought to have a modest self- awareness. This is because she does not prefer to take a bible that can get more extra marks for her. Welty mockingly proposes that individuals who use bibles as an apparatus for self-gaining are certainly those who are too worried with their own benefits (Welty 4). Their proceedings fly in the face of consecration. Marian, nevertheless, dehumanizes the two elderly ladies automatically. She relates the voice of an elderly lady to a sheep’

Economic Geography Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Economic Geography - Essay Example The most important factor, after taking into account the use of technology, is the availability of labor at reasonable cost. The main reason for outsourcing American businesses, including manufacturing, has been the relative lesser cost of production. This was due to the availability of labor in countries like China at a friction of American cost. Apart from this, available of quality services at the selected location is another factor, which manufacturers would like to consider. The other factors that go into making manufacturing location decisions include, business environment, easy access to raw material and components, overall quality of life at he selected location and marketability of the finished goods. Availability of labor This is related to the type of goods to be manufactured. For products, which require quantity output in limited time, the manufacturing becomes labor-intensive with high turnout, to achieve bigger sales volumes. In such cases, locations that can provide la bor at considerably lesser cost remain the favorite of any manufacturer. This was the case of China getting most of the world’s manufacturing business, about two decades ago. ... American manufacturers are finding it difficult to maintain their facilities, as the cost advantage is vanishing. This is truer for high turnout goods.(Hanink) The case of Foxconn manufacturing facility in China is an ideal example of the labor cost relation with the manufacturing location. China never wanted to display the living conditions of its citizens, particularly the factory workers. However, these conditions have been worse, if not inhumane. People had to huddle together for sleep in bunkers and dormitories. Wages like $400 per month were paid to a worker who would put around 50 hours a week on the plant job. People would go to market in factory uniform only. Foxconn recruited most of its interns and apprentices from the boys belonging to age group of 14-15 years, to reduce further the cost of labor.(Fallows) However, things are changing in China very rapidly. With the living conditions, as detailed above, reports of suicide attempts were frequent. That was the reason for Fo xconn to introduce†suicide nets† for prevention of such attempts. Things could not be stopped there. The factory owners had to increase wages three to four times during last three years. It has created serious problems for the manufacturers and exporters. Chinese goods have been selling throughout the world, due to their lower prices. That advantage is now vanishing. American manufacturers are feeling the cost pinch from such outsourced units. Labor is available at competitive cost in America now. Reverse shifting has begun.(Fallows) Technology plays an important role in availability of adequate services The manufacturing activities for new start-ups relate to an idea, which is converted into the marketable product. In older days, the original idea

Burn Norton (T.S. Elliot) Essay Example for Free

Burn Norton (T.S. Elliot) Essay Describe the sound and pace of the opening section of Burnt Norton, and compare those qualities to the meters and language used in section II. Why do you suppose that the first stanza of section II is a tetrameter with a rhyme scheme, while the stanzas before and after forgo rhyme and use a variety of time lengths? What might those variations suggest about the tone of the poems opening and the psychological or spiritual content? The first stanza of section II is a tetrameter with a rhyme scheme because each of its lines was composed of eight syllables, four of which are stressed or accented (eHow. com, 2009). In sharp contrast, the stanzas before and after did not adhere to this structure. They were made up of lines that appeared to be more of spoken language than verses of poetry. It would be fair to say that the stanzas before and after the first stanza of section II are free verse forms of poetry. Such a variation is not without purpose – it was intended to highlight the nostalgic and apprehensive tones of the poem’s opening. The poem’s opening was mainly about the speaker’s feelings about the concepts of time and change. He or she was torn between holding on to treasured memories of the past and submitting to the inevitable arrival of change. The spiritual content of the poem likewise reflected the aforementioned conflict. It was revealed in the end of the first stanza that although the speaker finally acknowledged the inseparability of change in all aspects of human existence, he or she did so with a heavy heart. 2. The word â€Å"time† appears over and over again in Burnt Norton. How is time invoked or described at various points in the poem? Is there an interesting progression or change in these references? What lines strike you as especially odd or mysterious? What is their effect? Singly or together? Indeed, the word â€Å"time† appears over and over again in Burnt Norton. But the speaker has diverging descriptions of time in the poem. At the beginning of the first stanza, for example, he or she invoked time as an adversary: All time is unredeemable. What might have been is an abstraction Remaining a perpetual possibility Only in a world of speculation. What might have been and what has been Point to one end, which is always present. (n. pag. ) But towards the last stanza of section V, the speaker finally realized the futility of trying to make time stop in order to maintain a cherished status quo: Desire itself is movement Not in itself desirable; Love is itself unmoving, Only the cause and end of movement, Ridiculous the waste sad time Stretching before and after. (n. pag. ). The above-mentioned insight stemmed from the fact that ideals such as love and desire were attained mainly because there were individuals who willingly abandoned convention in order to pursue them. I myself initially found these lines to be odd – the speaker suddenly changed his or her views on love and desire after agonizing about their inevitable loss for the most part of the poem. But these lines also had a single effect on me – they enlightened me on the real nature of love and happiness, as well as how they are truly attained. 3. Read the first ten lines of section V, and consider them as possible commentary on poetry – and on this poem in particular. What is suggested here about the importance of â€Å"Words, after speech† or â€Å"the form, the pattern† that can â€Å"reach/The stillness†? What inferences do you draw from these lines about what Burnt Norton is attempting to achieve? The first ten lines of section V suggested that the things which people appreciated (poetry, music, etc. ) became what they are mainly because people had the opportunity to look back and realize their value long after they had been created. A given piece of literature, for instance, can be appreciated only after it has been read or heard. A certain artwork can be judged to be of value only after its completion. The inevitable passage of time allowed people to come up with ideas on what is beautiful, ugly, good and bad. The first ten lines of section V are implying that change should be welcomed instead of shunned. The passage of time brings about change that an institution needs to survive. This change can come in the form of the discovery of new ideas, principles and beliefs. A form of music that was dismissed as scandalous a century ago could be now deemed as sophisticated. Would these be possible if time was stopped just to preserve a treasured status quo? References eHow. com. (2009). How to Write in Iambic Tetrameter. Retrieved June 16, 2009, from http://www. ehow. com/how_4392330_write-iambic-tetrameter. html Tristan. Icom43. net. (2000, June). Burnt Norton (No. 1 of â€Å"Four Quartets†). Retrieved June 16, 2009, from http://www. tristan. icom43. net/quartet

Review on the Biomedical Importance of Taurine

Review on the Biomedical Importance of Taurine M.K.Vanitha, K. Baskaran, K.Periyasamy, D.Saravanan, A.Ilakkia, S.Selvaraj, R.Venkateswari, B.Revathi Mani, P.Anandakumar, D. Sakthisekaran ABSTRACT Objectives: To briefly outline the effects of taurine on different organs, in order to elucidate the biomedical importance of taurine. Summary: Taurineis a sulfur-containing amino acid that is found in mammalian tissues.Taurinehas different biological and physiological functions. It is a component of bile acids, which are used to help absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins. It also helps regulate the heartbeat, maintain cell membrane stability and prevent brain cell over-activity. In addition,taurine chloramine, an endogenous product derived from activated neutrophils, has been reported to suppress obesity-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in adipocytes. Conclusion: This review is an attempt to reveal the biomedical importance of taurine including its effect on heart, lung, kidney, bone, fetal tissue, retinal photoceptors, oxidative stress and cancer. Key words:taurine, endothelium, lung, kidney, antioxidant 1. INTRODUCTION Taurine originated from the Latin word taurus, which means bull or ox, as it was first isolated from ox bile in 1827 by Austrian scientists Friedrich Tiedemann and Leopold Gmelin.1 It is often considered an amino acid in scientific literatures. It is a vital nutrient for cats, and probably also for primates, since it is essential for the development and survival of neural cell.2 In healthy humans, dietary foodstuffs are the main sources of taurine. High concentrations of taurine are found in animal sources whilst undetectable in vegetables.3 Figure 1: Structure of taurine Since vegetarians have no dietary intake of taurine and often eat low sulphur amino acid diets, plasma concentrations are lower in vegetarians. Methionine and cysteine are precursors of taurine, however synthesis ability varies widely amongst species, the maximal human synthesis rate is unknown. The average daily synthesis in adults ranges between 0.4 1.0 mmol (50-125 mg) 4 under stress the synthesis capacity may be impaired; therewith some authors consider taurine as a conditionally essential amino acid, whereas for others it remains non essential. Fish is a good source of taurine and tests for taurine content for a variety of fish have been conducted. Figure 2: Biosynthesis of taurine 2. CHEMISTRY OF TAURINE The molecular formula of taurine is C2H7NO3S and its molecular weight is 125.15. It has a pKa of 1.5 (at 25 Â °C) and a melting point of 300 Â °C (decomposition) and shows a bulk density of 0.65–0.75g/cm3 and a density of approximately 1.7g/cm3. It is soluble in water (10 g dissolves in 100 mL at 25 Â °C) and insoluble in ethanol, ethyl ether and acetone. The pH of a 5 % solution in water is 4.1 – 5.6. Taurine is a white crystalline powder that is almost odourless but with a slightly acidic taste. It contains by specification at least 98.0 % taurine in dried substance. Taurine is a monobasic acid that has unique physical constants compared to other neuroactive amino acids. The uniqueness of taurine is mainly due to the functional group containing sulfur, the sulfonic group, unlike the carboxylic group typical of all the other natural amino acids. This difference may provide the rationale behind the unique biological nature of taurine which is not shared with other ne uroactive amino acids. With its sulfonate group, it is a stronger acid (pKa 1.5) than glycine, aspartic acid, ÃŽ ²-alanine, and ÃŽ ³-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Similarly, having a pKb value of 8.82, it is less basic than GABA, ÃŽ ²-alanine and glycine. Its solubility in water is 10.48g/100mL at 258Â °C, which is lower than that of ÃŽ ²-alanine, GABA or glycine. Table 1: Properties of taurine 3. BIOMEDICAL IMPORTANCE OF TAURINE 3.1 TAURINE IN FETAL DEVELOPMENT AND NEONATAL GROWTH The human fetus has no ability to synthesize taurine, but considerably high levels of taurine have been recorded, and this may be due to a very efficient placental role of taurine in disease prevention. The amount of taurine was found to be very high in human breast milk compared to cow’s milk, on which a large portion of infants are fed, and this may be due to the high concentration of taurine in placenta. Thus, taurine is now added to many infant formulas to provide improved nourishment.5 Several types of organ dysfunction develop from abnormalities of taurine levels in growing children. In neonatal cardiomyocytes (as in adult ones), taurine functions as an organic osmolyte. During pregnancy, taurine accumulates in the maternal tissues, from where it is periodically released to the fetus via the placenta. In infants, taurine is acquired through the mother’s milk. This is the stage when taurine accumulates more in fetal and neonatal brain. A low maternal taurine concen tration will lead to low fetal taurine concentration.6 3.2 TAURINE AND THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS) Taurine is the most abundant amino acid in the brain after glutamate, and it is found in all cell types in the CNS. A high concentration of taurine occurs in the developing brain, but with maturity, its levels fall to 30%.7 Taurine is extensively involved in neurological activities, including protection, modulation of neural excitability, maintenance of cerebellar functions and modulation of motor behavior through interaction with dopaminergic, adrenergic, serotonergic and cholinergic receptors and through glutamate.8 Free radicals are particularly detrimental to brain tissue where there is a high concentration of lipids, suitable target for oxidation. Taurine is now being explored for its capacity to protect tissues against oxidative stress. In cerebellar neurons, stimulation by excitatory agents was effectively countered by taurine. While taurine may not directly decrease the levels of free radicals, it does increase cell viability. This may become an important alternate protective mechanism against free radical damage to brain cells. 3.3 TAURINE AND THE LIVER Liver synthesizes bile, which is a mixture of bile acids, salts, bilirubin, cholesterol and fatty acids, stored in the gallbladder. It is also responsible for the detoxification of harmful substances, but only if available in sufficient quantities. The bile acids act as detergents to solubilize or emulsify food into digestible components. This detergent action is due to the presence of both lipophilic and hydrophilic ends in the bile acids. The hydrophilic regions include sulfonates or carboxylate backbones. Mammals mainly use taurine and, to a lesser extent glycine, as the major amino acids that conjugate with bile acids to form biliary salts. Among the tauro-conjugates, taurocholic acid (TC), taurodeoxycholic acid (TDC), taurolithocholic acid (TLC), and taurocheno- deoxycholic acid (TCDC), can act as cholagogues (agents that promote the flow of bile into the intestine) or choleretics (agents that stimulate the liver to increase production of bile). The ratio between tauro-conjugate s and glycocholate in humans is about 3 : 1 and this ratio is adversely affected in cases of low taurine supply. In the absence of TC, bile salts can precipitate and form gallstones.9 3.4 TAURINE AND HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA In blood, cholesterol is carried in low density lipoproteins (LDL) and high density lipoproteins (HDL). Elevated LDL levels are implicated in a range of heart and vascular diseases, including myocardial infarction (heart attack) and atherosclerosis (clogging of the arteries). Taurine can attenuate the increased levels in total and LDL cholesterol in animals consuming a high fat, high cholesterol diet.10 High fat diets produce hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, and accumulation of lipids on the aortic valve of the heart. Dietary taurine supplements are known to be beneficial in situations when the body cholesterol status is high, as well as normal. In particular, it has been demonstrated that taurine is capable of reducing plasma lipid concentration and visceral fat in diabetic rats as well as in obese humans.11 3.5 TAURINE AND OCCUPATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LIVER DAMAGE Exposure to toxic chemicals, which is a common hazard for industrial workers, has been linked to birth defects, sterility, headache, chronic fatigue, arthritic-like inflammation and many other symptoms. These chemicals have a deleterious effect on the liver and taurine is able to moderate the extent and severity of their side. Furthermore, it reduces the number of cancer antigen-positive hepatocytes and in several cases of chemical exposure, taurine also protected against DNA damage.12 3.6 TAURINE AND DIABETES Type II diabetes mellitus is one of the most common human diseases and its prevalence is constantly growing. This pathology is characterized by the reduced sensitivity of the cellular targets, mainly adipose and muscle cells, to insulin stimulation. Such alteration can lead to insulin resistance, hyper-insulinemia, hyperglycemia, and several other metabolic dysfunctions. Lifestyle, dietary habits, and environment can influence the appearance of diabetes.13 Taurine supplements administered to patients with type 2 diabetes were proven to be beneficial. Also, taurine alleviates clinical complications of diabetes, having beneficial effects on nephropathy and retinopathy. In animal models of experimental insulin resistance, it has been demonstrated that the metabolic alterations associated with diabetes are ameliorated by taurine administration.14 3.7 TAURINE AND THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM Taurine concentration is found to be high in the mammalian heart. The maintenance of cardiac taurine content is governed by a series of processes, which include transport, accumulation, binding, release, as well as metabolism. The availability of taurine in cardiac tissue is generally dependent on the transport process, because of its limited ability to be effectively synthesized in the cardiac tissue. Taurine deficiency may possibly be linked to cardiomyopathy, as it has been well reported in cats. Furthermore, conclusive evidence of the relationship between taurine and heart health was provided by studies with transgenic mice knocked out of its taurine transporter.15 3.8 TAURINE AND ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION Endothelial dysfunction is common among cardiovascular diseases and diabetes and it is known as one of the primary events in the development of atherosclerosis and diabetic angiopathies.16 Taurine has been shown to be a protector of endothelial structure and function after exposure to inflammatory cells, their mediators, or other chemicals. Treatment of activated macrophages with taurine inhibits the generation of NO and other inflammatory mediators, which is present in high amounts in inflammatory cells, seems to be uniquely capable of modifying homeostasis in both target and receptor cells through antioxidant calcium flux and the osmo regulatory pathway. Finally, taurine was proven to protect endothelial cells from damage induced by hyperglycemia and oxidized LDL.17 3.9 TAURINE AND LUNG FUNCTION The depletion of taurine is particularly harmful to pulmonary tissue. Alveolar macrophages, which reside on the surface of lung alveoli, ingest inhaled particulates to clear the alveolar spaces. However, alveolar macrophages, much like the general macrophages, become more susceptible to ROS and more pro-inflammatory when deprived of the antioxidant protective capacity that taurine provides. Fibrosis may also result from toxic chemical exposure. There are numerous factors responsible for toxin-induced damage to lung cells and tissue in animal models of induced interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. In several cases, the administration of taurine, niacin or a combination of both, yielded promising results, and can reverse increased lung lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, the ability to scavenge ROS and to stabilize cell membranes contributed to the suppression of lung collagen accumulation and oxidative stress damage. Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by bronchial obstruction and airwa y hyper reactivity with neutrophil accumulation. There is increasing evidence that excessive production of ROS along with defective endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms may be responsible for asthma. In an animal model of allergic asthma, taurine content was found to be reduced and oral treatment with taurine produced anti-inflammatory responses. Similar effects have also been demonstrated in humans.18 3.10 TAURINE AND THE KIDNEY In the kidneys, taurine is found at a high concentration, which is regulated by the reabsorption at the modulating proximal tubule according to its dietary intake. In alleviating the diabetic nephropathy, taurine serves as an osmolyte, an endogenous antioxidant and an inhibitor of phosphokinase C (PKC) in mesangial cells. The beneficial effects of taurine may be due to its well-known anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities.19 3.11 TAURINE AND RETINAL PHOTORECEPTOR ACTIVITY The common eye disease cataract demonstrates the importance of lens condition. It is speculated that cataract formation may be largely due to the oxidation of protein in the lens. Consequently, a lack of antioxidants could be a major factor in the development of cataracts. Since taurine acts as an antioxidant directly, it prevents changes in the levels of glutathione, ATP and insoluble proteins, molecular factors that predispose to cataract formation.20 Furthermore, taurine plays a critical role in the structure and function of the photoreceptors, specifically rods, which are responsible for seeing in both low illumination and night conditions. The promotional effect of taurine in cellular regeneration is compromised with drugs that induce the activation of PKC or phosphate inhibitors.21 Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is characterized by visual field loss and night blindness. Nutritional factors are now recognized as important factors in the reversal of RP. Experimental finding suggests t hat RP patients recover their visual capacities with the addition of nutrients, including taurine, which has been found to be beneficial. Taurine and zinc interact with each other to influence the development of the retinal structure and function in the eye. Both molecules promote the healthy oscillatory potentials necessary for vision. Deficiency of taurine has been identified as the cause of all these diseases and clearly demonstrates its vital role in vision.22 3.12 TAURINE IN BONE TISSUE FORMATION AND INHIBITION OF BONE LOSS Bone tissue contains cells and the extracellular matrix, which is composed of collagen fibers and noncollagenous proteins. In bone tissue, taurine is found in high concentration, similar to that found in the liver and kidneys. This taurine-bone interaction is one of the latest added to its long list of actions.23 In bones, taurine acts as a double agent. It is involved in both bone formation and inhibition of bone loss. In addition to these two major actions, taurine has beneficial effects in wound healing and bone repair. 3.13 ANTICANCER ACTIVITY OF TAURINE Taurine has been found that taurine has radio protective properties and anti-mutagenic effect, reducing nucleic acid damage. The chemo-preventive activity of taurine and, in particular, 1-(2-chloroethyl)- 3(2-dimethyl sulfony) ethyl-11-nitrosourea derivative (e.g., tauromustine), have been used against colon and hepatic cancers. In hepato-carcinogenesis, the degree of membrane damage and the fall in glutathione function were reduced when oral taurine was given prior to exposure to carcinogens. These findings suggest that taurine, by inhibiting lipo-peroxidation and preserving the glutathione antioxidant system, offers protection against membrane breakdown.24 Recombinant interleukin-2 immunotherapy is utilized as a therapeutic approach in certain types of cancers. However, it may produce a cytotoxic effect on both tumor cells and healthy vascular endothelial cells. In such cancer therapy programs, taurine reduces interleukin endothelial cell cytotoxicity without compromising the antitumor activity of the immunotherapy. In addition, when taurine is used in conjunction with interleukin, it actually increases the tumor cytotoxicity. For the treatment of intra peritoneal (abdominal) tumors, researchers have studied a taurine derivative, taurolidine, as both an alternative and an adjunct to heparin, a standard substance used to prolong the clotting time of blood. In certain cancers, the amino acid profile yields data about the disease that is useful to better assess the therapeutic approach. Colorectal cancer patients exhibit a characteristic amino acid profile with significantly lower intracellular levels of taurine, glutamic acid, methionine , and ornithine and elevated levels of valine. Likewise, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck exhibit a profile that is marked by decreased taurine.25 4. CONCLUSION This review highlights the divergent effects of taurine on different tissues. Thus, further studies on taurine could exemplify the beneficial role of taurine in human health and disease. 1