Concerns and Benefits Regarding the Use of the American Psychological Article

Concerns and Benefits Regarding the Use of the American Psychological Association (APA) Format of Citation - Article Example Numerous citation formats are currently being used by most researchers and scholarly writers based on their specialization. The most popular style that can be used in any field is the Chicago or Turabian style, MLA is most used for the humanities, and APA style is used in the social sciences, and in recent years in education, research, and business as well (Lipson, 2011). The styles may vary according to what is needed to be presented, but all of these are borne out of the necessity of presenting thoughts or ideas as scholarly and as professionally as possible, all while giving appropriate recognition to the writers that presented the original ideas beforehand (Winkler & Metherell, 2011). Also, because the different writing styles are designed in order to properly present information in the field that these are most often used, one type of citation style may not be appropriate to use in other fields of study, and some necessary information that is usually needed in referencing may be omitted, or added, which could cause confusion (Lipson, 2011). Due to this, the use of a citation style must be in accordance to what kind of information is being presented. In addition, the use of specific styles for each field of discipline is needed to homogenize the presentation of information, especially for publications (Szuchman, 2010). The American Psychological Association (APA) created a format of information presentation around 80 years ago, in order for social scientists to establish a standard for communications in that field (American Psychological Association, APA, 2012a). This format is now popularly known as APA Citation Style, and is widely used because of its focus on sparing and straightforward presentation of information (APA, 2012a). There is much focus on the content, as well as the condensation and rephrasing of information from other sources, making this citation style more authoritative than other methods (Beins, 2012). Another characteristic of APA Citati on Style is it being parenthetical, with much more focus on the name of the research writer and the date it was written. This is due to the fast nature of scientific research in generating new information and making other ideas obsolete in a short period of time (Winkler & Metherell, 2011). With this in mind, this kind of format is much more applicable in the field of nursing, since most concepts are most often needed in a condensed form, as well as the fast turnover rate of information in this field. The use of APA Citation Style in writing scholarly articles is very useful in my field of nursing, especially when writing research papers, position papers, or even short papers such as summaries of one or more articles. The use of the parenthetical method in citing information previously published is able to quickly tell the reader of the paper when this information was generated, and it could either strengthen the validity of an argument without adding any bias (APA, 2012b). Also, th e style is designed to be as minimalist as possible for researchers to write and edit

Casual analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Casual analysis - Essay Example Other causes are lack of intellectually challenging church teachings, and too much emphasis on prosperity rather than Godliness. Church scholars observe that while many people claim to be Christians, most of them rarely attend church on a regular service. This essay discusses the decline of church attendance by review recent statistics, the reasons for the decline, possible remedies and the future of the church. Church Attendance Statistics Studies on church attendance reveal startling statistics that are only indicative of a drastically declining church attendance. In addition to the documented increasing closure of churches, it is recoded that 2.7 million church attendants become inactive members every year (Gill 46). This translates into the observation that an increasing number of people are leaving the Christian church and entering into the secular world where church has no significance. Olson and Adams (7) notes that beginning 1990 through 2000, the total membership of all Prot estant churches in the United States reduced by approximately 9.5 per cent, meaning that 5 million people stopped going to church during that period (). This decline in church attendance occurred despite the population of the nation rising by 24 percent, that is, 11million people. In 2002, 87 per cent of Americans claimed to be Christians in most studies but only around 40 to 50 per cent of them are regular church goers (Jackson 4). This confirms the assertions of theology scholars that church attendance may be up to a half of the population that claims in polls to be Christians. Reasons for Church Attendance Decline One of the major problems cited by church scholars for the decline church attendance is poor church leadership. Most people are simply unhappy with the way their clergymen and church officials run their churches. Chief among the elements of poor leadership is unacceptable management of funds, morale problems, and lack of a clear vision for the members of the church (Jac kson 25). For instance, if a church runs a building fund for over 20 years, there is a likelihood of the members wondering if the building will ever come into being. Moreover, if the church leaders are unable to follow through a course to its completion, the existing members will develop doubts while potential members will get discouraged from joining the church. Moreover, if a pastor or a prominent church member is caught in improprieties, the members of the church who look up to those as their source of inspiration and motivation lose their trust. In addition, there are high chances that a respected church member will deny being involved in wrongful actions. The fact that it can be proven that they actually went against Christian teachings worsens the case because the congregation wonders how evil people are supposed to lead them in leading straight, Christian lives (Gill 47). Another reason blamed for the decline in church attendance is observation that people are finding churche s to be lacking in intellectual challenges. It is crucial to note that more and more members of the young generation are educated at college and university levels, making them thinking people with expanded capacities of knowledge and curiosity (Wijsen and Schreiter 54). The conception of the young people that they always know more than the person preaching at the pulpit apparently gives them the perception that the

Classroom Behaviour Policy Analysis

Classroom Behaviour Policy Analysis This paper will critically review a Primary schools behaviour policy and practice. In addition, it will address the topic of class room behaviour and how improving this may benefit pupils. Furthermore, how can teachers pre-empt misbehaviour moreover, how can teachers approach the issues of misbehaviour. Furthermore, different theories will be investigated to compare to those being used within the setting. In addition, differences and similarities of global interventional approaches will be investigated. In the conclusion of answering the above questions, a summary will be made to indicate how inclusive learning can be implemented within the classroom environment as well as the role of the educator in these situations. The aims of the policy state that the values and beliefs of the behaviour policy within the workplace suggest that all pupils are encouraged and responsible in displaying appropriate patterns of behaviour and standards of discipline are equal to these patterns. This is accomplished through paradigm, of positive praise and rewards as well as sanctions.ÂÂ  Furthermore, the rationale indicates that it is clear, consistently applied and enforced by all members of staff as a whole setting and community working together. However, the word appropriate is used throughout the policy; no explanation is suggested to the meaning of this vocabulary used within this policy. Furthermore, within this policy which is outdated, only implies what the major offences are and the sanctions that apply to this unacceptable behaviour. This seems to be displaying a negative approach to the dealing with behaviour and therefore not highlighting other unacceptable behaviours that can be displayed by pupils. Within the Primary educational setting rules and procedures are in place for all staff members alike. All staff members are expected that they model correct behaviour by using body language, actions and correct manners of addressing pupils within the class. Each class throughout the setting has class rules as well as whole school rule Golden Rules. These are displayed around the school and visible for all pupils and staff alike. As a result, everyone concerned within the setting should work together and therefore no one should be isolated allowing for full inclusion and a consistent approach. Conversely, this is not the case within practice. This is due the different tolerances of staff members combined with the class rules as these can be seen to give the pupils extra opportunities to display unacceptable behaviour of which is only list half way through the policy (major offences). Furthermore, not all staff although agreed by all staff at the time of publishing follow the discipline procedures therefore, consistence is not obtained by all allowing a weak link and lack of understanding and confusion within the views of some of the pupils (Independent Work Based Research Task 1) Although the WBRT was limited there still seemed to be an underlying issue of what is acceptable behaviour and questions were asked by the pupils regarding why pupils are treated differently although they have displayed the same inappropriate behaviour in accordance with the school rules. Moreover, the pupils indicated that the teaching staff members were inconsistent and did not all use the same strategies. In addition, it has been noted that the use of sanctions seem to be labelled ineffective as staff did not use the sanctions consonantly as stated by one child. The teacher says things and then do not remember to give us punishments so we get away with the bad things we do. Child A Therefore, the rules, sanctions and rewards only work if the consistence remains, (Human Resource Management, Manufacturing Strategy, and Firm Performance Mark A. Youndt, Scott A. Snell, James W. Dean, Jr. and David P. Lepak The Academy of Management Journal Vol. 39, No. 4 (Aug., 1996), pp. 836-866) moreover fully applied at all times by all members of staff. Furthermore, the use of reinforcement together with role modeling and rewards of value to the pupils is essential to behaviour management. A wide range of rewards for positive behaviour can be seen within the policy may imply good practice and inclusion towards both genders yet, can not be seen within practice. For that reason, it may be suggested that the policy is out dated and not in context of the working setting, this is due to the delivery of the sanctions and they are not applied fairly and consistently by all staff. However, planning about behaviour improvement is informed by in house training and the use of statistics and theory to ensure the policy system identifies which matters should be dealt with by classroom teachers and those which require referral to a more senior member of staff. Controversially, numbers of poorly behaved pupils has reduced in numbers, of pupils visiting the Senior Management Team (SMT) in the last twelve months. Indicating higher levels of praise maybe being used to motivate and encourage pupils within the classroom environment. At the same time, pupils are aware of sanctions that will be applied for poor behaviour and what poor behaviour is within the setting as a larger number of classrooms are now displaying behaviour management tips as well as suggestions to support pupils in behaving in the manner that is required within the setting suggested within Steer Report (2005) together with the teachings of Social Emotional Aspects of Learning (SEAL, accessed 2010). He also said that To enable the most vulnerable or disengaged children to gain full benefit from strategies in behaviour management, schools need the capacity to provide high quality support to the child and to the parents. Without that capacity schools will be unable to meet the aspirations contained within the Childrens Plan. In undertaking the making of the behaviour policy the school should have reflected on the ten aspects of school practice which should be effective, and contribute to the good quality of pupil behaviour and guidelines on how this maybe achieved through the use of positive praise and role modelling. Up until 1988 stood no national policy to state what educators should include within the services they provided (Pugh, 1988). However, nine years later the policy agenda stated that all should be entitle to an education of a high standard; this should include positive role models in behaviour. A consistent approach to behaviour management, teaching and learning need to be in place for all staff member including the school leadership team (Senor Management Team, SMT). Achieving this allows classroom management, learning and teaching to be equally effective when using rewards and sanctions together with behaviour strategies and the teaching of good behaviour displayed by all staff members. In order to achieve this staff should receive regular training and personal development and support to keep in line with Government legislation. This maybe why the numbers of major offences have lowered, suggesting it has taken time to implement the policy and for all including staff to adhere to and practice the strategies needed to achieve the desired outcome of positive behaviour management. Furthermore, pupil support systems such as behaviour mentors working together with the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) within the school, are having a positive effect also. However, it can be seen within practice that they have different strategies in dealing with behavioural issues. Nonetheless, liaison with parents and other agencies is paramount alongside the managing of pupil transition within the setting whether it maybe into a different class, new teacher or indeed a new school as a result of moving to the area. Pedagogy states that practitioners draw on a range of working theories as well as their own experiences on how children learn and how their teaching can support learning. The underpinning Strategies guidance and advice service share this common understanding whilst indicating and ensuring behaviour management can produce a better continuity and progression at all stages of learning for pupils and staff alike. One theory based on the individual psychology of Adler titled Psycho Educational Theory (Watts Critelli, 1997) attempts to promote positive behaviour. The fundamental belief of this theory is that it ultimately establishes the behavioural patterns of an individual (Arthur, Et al 2006). The theory is based upon positive behaviour promotions through development of self beliefs; therefore, can only change once the negative beliefs become positive beliefs (Arthur et al, 2006). Encouraging pupils to promote positive behaviour can also be achieved by allowing pupils and young people to feel they are valued as individuals within the learning environment (Arthur, et al., 2006). However, this is multi part process; the first enabling pupils to negotiate class rules with clear outcomes. The second part is to develop conflicting resolution techniques. The third part is encouragement aimed at all pupils allowing them to feel valued. Finally, self satisfaction within the pupil, this should be achieved through an individualized plan to meet the needs of each student (Arthur, et al., 2006). However, Curwin and Mendler (1999) would suggest a model of responsibility. The model proposes, welcoming warm environments, clearly defined rules and encouraging conflict resolution skills found within the National Curriculum (2000) within the subject of Personal Social Health Education (PSHE) to be a positive way forward in addressing these issues within the Primary school environment. ÂÂ  Curwin and Mendler (1999) suggest that this is a more difficult strategy and is more time consuming to implement, although believe it to be a worthy strategy as it seems to be more effective with higher achievers. Furthermore, lower achievers respond in a similar way to the higher achievers. Classroom management involving, interactive teaching and the use of cooperative methods of learning enables greater expectations for inclusion moreover, less serious misbehavior as measured by suspensions and expulsions from school. Observational learning is yet another theory which can be implemented to encourage positive behaviour. Practitioners model acceptable behaviour at all times, this is seen to be good practice Kauffman, Et al (2006). Pupils receiving rewards in front of others for acceptable behaviour may also increase the desired behaviour. This can be seen within the enquiry school as within the pupils receiving rewards within class.ÂÂ   In addition, this technique may be effective when minor misbehaviour is evident; one strategy is that an educator can ignore the misbehaviour and therefore, rewarding others for their acceptable behaviour may distract the misbehaving pupil (Kauffman et al., 2006). The final theory for promoting positive behaviour is Rewards Theory (Bandura, 2008), by offering students rewards for positive behaviour, such as table points, house points, raffle tickets or stickers which can be collected (Akin-Little, et al 2004). This theory is evident within the Primary schools behaviour policy as well as practice this is indicated within Independent WBRT Rewards and Sanctions. Where pupils are awarded points which, when totaled, allows them to exchange them for goods in increasing value depending on the amount obtained each term. However, this indicated that the use of this form of reward that collecting some form of token in order to exchange for goods in increasing values appealed to learn and motivated them 70% of pupils to try harder. The other 30% stated that they felt that they learnt and really had no interest in the rewards as the reward they strived for was to gain a good job to support them later in life therefore it was irrelevant. This maybe as the school is situated within a deprived area with a high number of parents whom are illiterate and living on low incomes in this form of society this is common. Furthermore, Ofsted (2009) have recognized this within the inspection report, although they stated; This larger-than-average school is the result of the recent amalgamation and therefore newly built nursery, is included in the schools Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision, moreover, is managed by the schools governing body. The majority of pupils are from White British backgrounds. The percentage of pupils eligible for free school meals is well above average. The proportion of pupils with learning difficulties and/or disabilities in well above the national average and includes those with speech and language, emotional and social, and moderate learning difficulties. (Ofsted, 2009) Furthermore went on to state that the pupils behaved well. And provide good quality, relevant extended services and good support, which underpin its work with parents and pupils. Controversially, this does not enthuse all pupils to behaviour in a manner which is deemed acceptable within the classroom environment and therefore other strategy would be put in place of this, following the old documentation Every Child Matters (2009) as treating the children as individuals. However, studies show positive results if this strategy is used correctly as Akin-Little et al (2004) suggested. An overall view is that educators can prevent unacceptable behaviour by raising positive behaviour standards which in turn may assist in reducing misbehaviour as indicated by Moore, Anderson and Kumar (2005). In addition, it maybe that some behaviour can be interpreted as misbehaviour can actually be escape behaviour as pupils may have had confrontation during a period of playtime or indeed before they have entered the school grounds with situations involving parents. If this is not dealt with first then the child may react in this way. However, another cause of unacceptable behaviour maybe that the work set is not set at the correct level and therefore does not engage to pupil moreover misbehaves to avoid the task. Within practice of the workplace Family Liaison Officers (FLO) are available to inform teaching staff of any changes that may affect pupils learning in any form and therefore, can place pupils with the correct strategies in order for them to remain in society and school with full inclusion. Simply by using the extinction theory and therefore, removing any reward or reinforcement, the pupils was receiving for the undesirable behaviour will also obtain the desired behaviour. Response cost punishment is another behaviourism strategy- used within workplace at playtime behaviour this results in the loss of an event or task which is of interest to them, for example a Golden time, free play and even football pitch allowance. Finally, all pupils can be fully included regardless of which strategies are put into place within any educational setting, if theories such as psycho educational and goal-centered theories were in place. This would support individuals needs enabling the pupils to reach their full potential. Greenspan (2005) supports this factor to create an inclusive classroom and therefore would lead to the staff creating the correct environment for pupils to learn at their fully potential. Topping (1983) would agree in suggesting that it is only the consistency in these intervention strategies that modify behaviour and therefore support behaviour management. This could be achieved by providing children with opportunities and pro-social skills that allow them some control over their environment, especially during particularly stressful periods in their lives. Examples include opportunities to master new skills (e.g. in sports or the arts), to work with others on creative projects, and academic situations in which they can make choices for themselves.ÂÂ  However, this can lead to other pupils not reaching their full potential in learning due to unacceptable behaviour of pupils within the same classroom environment as observed within Independent WBRT Rewards and Sanctions that when a child misbehaves in class and the teacher does nothing shows positive behaviour management it can stop pupils from working as they seem not to have been given strategies to deal with distractions within this environment. This is where it would be good practice to follow the policy and give positive behaviour management moreover, be consistent and parents a nd careers need to be informed. As within the policy and believes of the school parents and careers are deemed an important aspect of the school and the childs achievements. Therefore, the enquiry school works and engages with the local community and families to support learning, children tend to succeed not just in school, but throughout life when this takes place. This is seen to be a fundamental approach which aids in lowering unacceptable behaviour. The role of parents and careers is essential in assisting schools in achieving standards of behaviour. They have a duty to take responsibility for the behaviour of their own child and support the schools decisions in dealing with unacceptable behaviour. However this sometimes can be difficult when fighting against parents who do not support this. Therefore, many schools may have in place a parenting contract (Department of Education, 2010). This is an agreement between the parent or career and the school about the child. This can be seen as a punishment, but really it should be seen as a way of working together to help the child. For example this may occur if your child has been excluded for several short periods of time, as a preventive measure of full exclusion therefore, this can be deemed as an intervention to enhance inclusion of a child to prevent a court hearing. However, by working alongside parents and careers as within the work place by offering parenting skills programmes and support for parents who divorce, who are unemployment moreover other stressful negative events that can disrupt their parenting skills. Approaches within the United Kingdom are different at the same time similar to other countries. It can be suggested that many countries seem to deal with unacceptable behaviour before it occurs with intervention programmes. However, studies state this is dependant on the commitment of the staff (Roland, 2000). Controversially, in Hong Kong suspensions and calling of parents is deemed as ineffective and therefore, adopt strategies such as supporting students in developing self-competency, social skills, and good relationships with parents as well as teachers seems to be a useful, very much like the teaching of SEAL (2010), Restorative Justice moreover, Personal Social Health Education (PHSE) in the UK. Typically have strict codes of discipline and the majority of schools adhere to Demerit Points System which is a record of student offences in disciplinary areas within education, and sometimes comments from tutors on whether he or she can graduate. Three points of minor poor behaviour will result in it becoming one major offence any student has accrued three or more major offences, he or she is automatically suspended from school. The point system can be carried forward to later in life and therefore jeopardize future career prospects for that pupil. Within the USA two approaches seem to be used as whole school approaches to address behavioural discipline. School Wide Positive Behavioural Supports (SWPBS), which is an approach to communicate and teach rules (and reward students for following them) and function-based behavioral interventions Horner, et al, (2005) Social Emotional Learning (SEL), the American SEAL from which our derived incorporates approaches that emphasize self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making (Osher et al,2008, Watson, 2003). These two approaches differ in their primary aims-developing systems to manage student behaviour against developing student self-discipline. These differences are consistent with the difference commonly made between teacher-centered and student-centered approaches to learning and classroom management (Freiburg, 1999). Discipline, in teacher-centered approaches, the main focus is on external school rules and the use of behavioral strategies, especially positive reinforcement and punishment (Skinner, 2002), to manage student behavior. In student-centered approaches, the main focus develops on the students capacities to control behavior, engaging, and trusting relationships. Whereas, SWPBS programs are teacher centered, SEL (American) programs are child centered. Yet, still, the two approaches are very similar: In addition, both highlight preventions regarding unacceptable behaviours as well as the promoting behavioral and social competencies in positive manners therefore decreasing neg ative, unwanted behaviour (Sprague Golly, 2004). SWPBS is not an original approach as many theories and strategies have be combined however, started from the theory of Skinner, (2002). Furthermore, research indicates that schools can gain clear expectations for learning and positive behaviour whilst encouraging a firm but fair discipline procedure through policy and practice (Mayer, 1995). Whereas, SEL is aimed at developing individual qualities, strengths, and social, emotional, cognitive, moreover moral development therefore increasing positive mental health (Berkowitz, Sherblom et al, 2006). A common feature within both strategies is an authoritative approach within classroom management and a whole school discipline approach on supporting teacher-student relationships and student ownership of learning with the use of rewards and sanction in preventing and correcting behaviour problems, which is evident within the workplace through practice however, is unclear within the Behaviour Policy (2008). If unacceptable behaviour continues parents are contacted and the issues discussed, in following LEA guidelines the Head teacher may decide that a childs behaviour, over a period of time, or after a particular isolated incident represents a threat to health and safety standards in the educational setting, or to the educational progress of other pupils in the school. The child may be excluded from school for a temporary period, or permanently. Controversially, WBRT C indicates that within the history of education the tackling of negative behaviour was achieved in schools by the use of corporal punishment. While a child was in school, a teacher took over the role of a parent, (as we still do today but not in such as harsh way) allowing the delivery discipline or rewards. In practice this meant that students were punished with the physical punishment such as the cane, paddle or strap if they misbehaved. The use of corporal punishment within educational settings has now disappeared from most Western countries, including all European countries. However, mainstream schools in most other countries take non-corporal approaches to misbehaviour through the means of detention and suspension. As within the setting the focus seems in practice to be more about promoting positive behaviour through reward systems and the use of policies having been introduced to support this. In addition, intervention programs such as Social Emotional Aspects of Learning (SEAL, 2010) have been brought into Primary as well as Secondary schools to help lower the unacceptable behaviour moreover the amount of exclusions happening within these settings. Inclusion programs such as Youth Inclusion Program (2000, YIP) can clearly be seen to be in place throughout the UK and having a positive affect on pupils of many different backgrounds. This is due to the cohesion of the community approach within the schools working with parents and outside agencies to support this issue of unacceptable or antisocial behaviour. The reasons for changing the behavioural approach is due to the well being of individuals by regaining well-being the ability to function productively in the society can be obtained.ÂÂ  In addition, this can lower the mental health issues that may occur later in life. Within the work place many strategies can be seen to promote positive behaviour some include; Curwin and Mendler (1999) who would suggest a model of responsibility and the Rewards Theory (Bandura, 1994, cited in Huprich, S, 2008). In conclusion, it can be suggested that a whole school approach is needed in order for the behaviour management to be effective. In achieving this it is necessary to work closely with parent and careers in dealing with poor behaviour that affects other from their learning and reaching the childs full potential. By address issues and setting clear sanctions and rewards and reminding the pupils on a regular basis enables intervention programs to work effectively. However, this can only be achieved if the role modeling is positive and effective teaching is also in place. Therefore, schools can play an important role in preventing problem behaviour, particularly when other parts of the community also become involved in prevention efforts. Many of the factors that increase a childs risk for developing behaviour problems affect their behaviour in school and their academic presentations. Social and academic problems in school in turn make it even more likely that early problems will persist and become worse later in life. A number of approaches are useful and therefore used for reducing negative behaviour and preventing problems later within schooling as well as adolescent years. Many of these involve school programs such as SEAL (2010) celebrating positive achievement by working together with families, careers and community members, to reduce the negativity moreover, increase involvement in positive activities that will improve their life skills.

Women in the Apology of Socrates Essay -- essays research papers

Women in the Apology of Socrates The most striking thing about women in the Apology of Socrates is their absence from where we might expect them. Only two specific women are mentioned: 1) the Pythia, the priestess of Apollo, who answers Chaerephon's question that no one is wiser than Socrates (21a); and 2) Thetis, the mother of Achilles (who himself is not mentioned by name but only referred to as the "son of Thetis"), who warns him that he will die if he kills the Trojan hero Hector (28c). Only two other times does Socrates even mention women: 1) a disparaging reference that those who embarrass the city by coming into court, weeping and carrying on to win the sympathy of the jury, "are in no way better than women" (35c); and 2) a remark that Socrates would enjoy questioning people in the hereafter, "both men and women" (41c), although everyone he actually names is male. Socrates does not mention questioning women in his investigations. Nor do women occur either as spectators to his que stions or in relation to all his talk about educating the "youth." The "youth" are obviously all young men. And again, Socrates mentions his family and his sons without mentioning his wife. Plato relates some relationships Socrates had with women (especially with Diotima in the Symposium), but those may be fictional. The only episode of Socrates questioning a woman that is clearly historical is related by Xenophon in his Recollections of Socrates: Socrates questions the courtesan Theodotà ª, who is famous for her beauty and poses for artists. Socrates lives in a world where the spheres of life of men and women were radically separate. In Plato's Symposium, which is a drinking party, both men and women are drinking and partying, but they do so in separate parts of the house. The musicans and dancers go back and forth between the men's party and the women's party. Political life was regarded by the Greeks as part of the male sphere of things, and so there were certainly no women in Socrates's jury; but it is hard to know whether there were any in the audience. There has been some dispute about whether women attended Greek plays, the comedies and tragedies, when they were staged -- though there are references by Plato to women in theater audiences. We have this difficulty in part because it was not considered proper for strange... ...ly male and all early nude art shows males, an ideal of female beauty rapidly gained ground in the century around Plato. In the three phases we can distinguish in the decoration of the Parthenon, the female figures are shown with progressively more diaphanous and revealing clothing. One of the earliest complete female nudes was a statue of Aphrodità ª that the great sculptor Praxiteles did for the island of Cos. He used as a model a famous courtesan named Phrynà ª (the scene of Phrynà ª posing at right is by the National Geographic painter H.M. Herget in Everyday Life in Ancient Times [National Geographic Society, 1961]). This was all rather shocking for the good people of Cos, who asked Praxiteles to do a more modest statue. He did, but the original went to the island of Cnidos, where it became a major local attraction. In Vamps and Tramps, Camille Paglia mentions that male visitors were so excited by the statue that they sometimes embarrassed themselves after the fashion of Pee Wee Herman. Eventually, the goddess herself was quoted as saying, "Alas, where did Praxiteles see me naked?" By the Hellenistic Age, female nudes were as common as male nudes. Thanks to friesian.com

Imagining Society: Hegemony in Poetry and Fiction Essay

The concept of hegemony, which asserts that society is ruled by a set of beliefs ingrained within the minds of individuals figures heavily into not only the ideals of society but also the representation of images and ideas. In poetry, we can see it in the references to nature, literature, and common social themes that reach beyond national boundaries to be easily relatable to the masses. In fiction, we can see the same concept in the attitudes and behaviors of characters and their respective communities. The poems â€Å"The Love Song of J.  Alfred Prufrock,† â€Å"A Song on the End of the World,† and â€Å"Odessa† the poets use universally relatable images to invoke imagery and emotion within the characterization of humanity. Kazuo Ishiguro’s Remains of the Day uses a similar notion but rather than representing these ideals through imagery, he exerts the dominance of hegemonic ideals in the behavior and beliefs of an individual character. Each work shows the hegemonic concept in practice, relating the easy acceptance of beliefs and ideals both blatantly as shown in Ishiguro’s story and through a coercion of imagery. They show that Gramsci’s theory applies beyond acceptance of societal norms to the emotional and tangible evidence of the connectedness of perceptions within society. The reading from Kazuo Ishiguro’s Remains of the Day, shows the ability for hegemonic ideals of the upper class to penetrate within an individual’s consciousness in a seemingly unaware manner. For Mr. Stevens, the butler, the silver polish represents a bygone era in his life. This was the height of the society in which he found himself in the periphery. His participation in this ritual, which he describes as significant in an outsider’s view of that particular household, â€Å"no other objects in the house were likely to come under such intimate scrutiny from outsiders as was silver during a meal, and as such, it served as a public index of the house’s standards† (Ishiguro 86). As butler, he was directly tied into the representation of these standards. The question is why this silver, which had no discernable effect on his own personal life carried such weight for him? Quite simply, Mr.  Stevens as part of the mechanism of upper class society had adopted their views as his own. Though the presentation of silver at the dinner table has little to no relevance in a lower or working class home, the ideal of finely polished silver represents a dream of upper class affluence. The influence of this upper class practice on Stevens is evident in the pride he retains in the â€Å"pleasing impact† (86) of the Darlington Hall silver on guests. The only relevance this has on his life, and for that matter the lives of the other butlers in great houses, is a matter of hegemonic assignation. They have inherited this ideal of silver from their employers, given their own servant status it would be unlikely they would adopted this view of silver without the influences of the great houses. Similarly in the poem â€Å"The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock† the images created by Eliot are easily associated within the mind of the reader. He in fact relies on the hegemonic ideal to help the reader associate his imagery with the correct feelings and sensations. The character of the poem, struggles himself against the constraints of such ideals which relate the world around him to concepts he accepts but cannot reconcile. He is playing his part in the larger play of life, â€Å"There will be time, there will be time/ To prepare a face to meet the faces that you meet;/ There will be time to murder and create† (Eliot 137. ll. 26-28). He is a middle-aged man fighting the depressions of the sameness, the women â€Å"Talking of Michelangelo† (138. ll. 36) but ignoring the living. Prufrock is left in uncertainty between the ideals, which have been ingrained within him by society, and his own desires to break free, â€Å"Do I dare/ disturb the universe? † (138. ll. 45-46). His struggle is accented with Eliot’s imagery of a broken man that is highlighted by references easily discerned and relatable in the ideas and literature of modern society, â€Å"I am not Prince Hamlet, nor was meant to be;/ Am an attendant lord, one that will do/ To swell a progress, start a scene or two,/advise the prince; no doubt, an easy tool,/ Deferential, glad to be of use† (139. ll. 111-115). In this reference to Hamlet, Eliot identifies Prufrock as a tragic figure though less so than a hero or villain; Prufrock’s sorrow is of a peripheral kind that never reaches the passion of Hamlet’s excesses or madness. Prufrock’s melancholy is tempered by his knowledge of what he ought to be and what he wants to be, â€Å"Shall I part my hair behind? Do I dare to eat a peach? / I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach. / I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each. / I do not think that they will sing to me† (ll. 122-125). He has grown accepting of his role as assigned by society, while Eliot highlights his sadness in the silent songs of the mermaids who even mythical fail to acknowledge or recognize this unremarkable man. His tragedy lies in his anonymity, having absorbed too much of the upper class ideal as part of himself. While the two above readings center in part around a particular class of society, and through that representation show their ideals and the roots of the hegemony within the individual context, Czeslaw Milosz’s poem â€Å"A Song on the End of the World† offers a departure in the lack of specificity to an upper or middle class society. Instead Milosz’s poem relies are universal images of nature, that are easily put into context regardless of class or nationality. By doing this, he is showing the capability to tragedy to reach beyond these boundaries. He juxtaposes the heavy line â€Å"On the day the world ends† (ll. 1) with the natural and everyday details of nature, â€Å"A bee circles a clover†(ll. 2). He is playing off the religious idea of the world ending in great catastrophe. However, in this poem the â€Å"world† is not meant to imply the Earth as a scientific fact to be destroyed by natural or manmade disaster. Instead the â€Å"world† is humanity, an idea of community and the individual that is implied throughout in the singular, though relatable images of a â€Å"drunkard† (ll. 9), a â€Å"yellow-sailed boat† (ll. 11), and a â€Å"violin† (ll. 2) to show both the universal and personal nature of such an event. Milosz’s relies on hegemony to help the reader understand the interconnectedness of life. He uses easily associated and common images to avoid alienating the audience, instead bringing them into the idea of oneness that was behind the 1944 Warsaw uprising against the Nazis. For the Polish of Warsaw, this defeat represented an ending to the world they had known. Ilya Kaminsky’s â€Å"Dancing in Odessa,† like Milosz and Eliot’s poems relies heavily on imagery to bring the reader into the moment. Though her images to do not carry the universal relatability of Milosz’s nature images, the emotional and mental effects of the invasion of the German’s into Odessa. She builds the first part of the poem with imagery to evoke a sense of freedom, which contrasts sharply with the restrictions of the German invaders. Where once the family had lived â€Å"north of the future† (Kaminky 12. ll. 1) and the invaders reveal this removal from the future as a removal from the damages of reality that are encroaching on this community. The danger that arise smother this future and the people live in the past, even before they are so roughly brought to the present, â€Å"my mother danced, she filled the past/ with peaches, casseroles† (ll. 9-10). Her retelling of the story, is meant to evoke memory buried within the individual. The imagery is such as to show the dreamlike quality of the past seen through the brutal truth of the future. Unlike Eliot and Milosz’s poems she does not rely solely on cultural markers such as Shakespeare or Michaelangelo nor does her nature carry the same universality of the images of nature. However, the day-to-day life as imagined by Kaminsky allows for an understanding that plays on emotion and historical allusions. More separate than the other writers from the hegemonic ideal, the emotions evoked by displacement are meant to strike at the basic human core. Her search for understanding is not so unlike the other poets’ expression of reality and the altering effects of the human mind on this reality. Any longer in literature language and imagery overlap with history to provide a core understanding that branches barriers of class, nationality, and culture. An understanding of the world is gleaned through these works by the use of the relatable and hegemony of the ideals which dominate the context of their subjects. In both Kaminsky and Milosz’s poems we can easily see and understand the references to the Nazi dominance of World War II and the loss of hope. For Eliot’s Prufrock, so influenced by the ideals of society, the loss of hope is highlighted by his inability to move beyond his melancholy and the life role assigned to him. He has become and will remain what is expected of him. Assigned to a particular class, carrying all of its restrictions and belief within his actions, Prufrock is stunted by his inactivity against this structure. Similarly, Mr. Stevens has taken on the role of butler and absorbed not only the ideals of his status but also those of his employers. In mindset, he is upper class in his equal obsession with silver as a marker of status but in reality he remains a servant without status. The hegemonic concept is apt in the looking at the relationship between language and perception, allowing writers and poets to impart imagery and feeling through easily relatable conclusions. We do not doubt the sadness of Prufrock or the hopelessness that accompanied the Nazi occupation of Warsaw or the subsequent crackdown on the rise the rebellion, nor can we deny the sadness, which accompanies remembering in Kaminsky’s poem. We do not doubt them because we can relate, we can accept these images as representative of the beliefs and ideals of the society to which we are also a part.

Importance of Risk Management

MGD426 Risk Management Overview A risk is, consequently, a hazard that can derail an organization from accomplishing a business process, project, or any activity that is vital to a company’s sustenance. There are different classifications of risks: financial, operational, infrastructure, human capital, and marketing risks. These risks embody subcategories of risks that can negatively affect the company. Leverage, receivables, and investments are risks can hinder the financial situations of a company. The decline of profits, increased losses, and negative impact on business processes are some of the costs in the failure to control risks.Similarly, operational risk includes many losses that are associated with â€Å"internal processes, people and systems or from external events† (The Basel Committee, 2004). By continually improving operations, firms are better able to gain competitive advantage. Operational risks occur from the execution of a company’s business pro cess. Although it is a relatively vague concept, it can be summed into a three-fold focus: processes, people, and systems. Internal fraud can be categorized into unauthorized activity, as well as theft and fraud; where as external fraud can be categorized with systems security, and theft and fraud.Importance of Assessment and Management In order for an organization to achieve certain objectives, coming across risks is almost inevitable. Organizations that are aware of such calamities are, more often than not, enabled to actively manage hazards and encompass potential opportunities for competitive advantage. This precisely means that contingency planning is important as uncontrollable risks (i. e. environmental factors) can occur at any time. While an organization cannot stop these hazards from occurring, they can mitigate the negative effects.By mitigating these risks with necessary responses, the company can aim their resources at improving or continuing their business processes. T herefore, the emphasis is, principally, on identifying and managing these hazards. Sustainable value is essential to the company and its activities; minimized uncertainty of goal achievement as well as maximized possibility of success. Competing in a dynamic environment leaves gap for uncertainty of the future. Briefly touched upon previously, this enables certain risks to not be accounted for.Risk management, as aforementioned, is a discipline that needs to be implemented by all companies. It is becoming increasingly important because of the dynamics of the environments in which an organization runs (technological, political, social, etc. ). For example, the effects of natural disasters can be mitigated but not stopped. Terrorism is a risk that cannot be calculated and accounted for prior to. All these questions and inquiries relay back to the umbrella question; why is risk management and/or risk assessment important to an organization?Risk assessment is a portion of Risk Managemen t; it is a formulated procedure for making sure that firms are not exposed to deplorable hazards. Taking into context the previously mentioned information, it is not of much use if the scale of the risk is not measured. Once measured, the organization would rally against how likely it is and what the organization can/should/will do to mitigate its effects. Contingency planning, as mentioned, is a risk management technique that comes about based on the assessment of the risk.Building on risk assessment, a risk that is not managed correctly will cause the firm to be affected negatively. These negative effects can be financial, operational, infrastructural, related to human capital or market: classifications of risk. Moreover, risk management is only effective if the assessment is done correctly. Both go hand in hand; the magnitude of the risk determines the management procedures. Reducing the risk of accidents to the company can allow the company to better relocate its resources towar ds its operational needs rather than additional risk management or risk recovery.Risk Response The response to a risk is done by the concept of the 4 T’s (terminate, tolerate, treat, and transfer). By terminating risks, you are, inherently, doing things in a different manner and, thus, removing the risk. Tolerate means that nothing can be done a reasonable cost to mitigate the risk or the likelihood and impact are at a reasonable level. Moreover, treating risks is taking certain actions to control a risk by, either, mitigating the likelihood of it emerging or limiting the effect it will have on the business process/project.Lastly, transfer of risks is primarily the underlying principle behind insurance transactions. Specifically, a risk, outline in the insurance or contract, can be passed from a party who does not want the risk to another party who will take it (either for free or a premium – insurance). Financial Risk Management Financial risk management is, primarily , concerned with the economic value of an organization and the effects to it. The management aspect deals with the exposure to risk, and the response to it.Two primary risks involved in financial sectors of firms are credit risks and market risks (while others include Forex (foreign exchange), volatility, liquidity, inflation, etc. ). Since financial risk is a factor in all organizations, it is important to respond to any volatility that may occur – as it would affect the firm negatively. These risks primarily mean that a firm who is unable to appropriately manage their financial operations will be subjugated by losses. As stated previously, credit risk, which is the inability for a business partner to compensate for a loan or satisfy other monetary contract, will, obviously, damage the company.This is apparent since the company will be at a loss since the firm who adheres to a loan contract is not able to pay back the moneys. Risk assessment for this particular risk includes a â€Å"risk and control self-assessment† (RCSA). This is a set of directives, which help avoid any financial detriment because of fraud, carelessness, and/or technological malfunction. As with any other risk assessment technique, classification of whether it is low, medium, or high level risk is determined based on the estimated loss.This type of risk assessment falls under the ‘treat’ classification of risk response as a certain action is implemented in order to control/mitigate the risk. As stated, in this brief example, the importance of risk assessment and management is vital to an organization. Works Cited â€Å"Briefing Paper H: Risk Management. † Governance and Social Development Resource Centre. N. p. , n. d. Web. . â€Å"Corporate Governance Risk Management Policy. † Isle of Man Government. N. p. , n. d. Web.

Flowers vs Weeds Essays

Flowers vs Weeds Essays Flowers vs Weeds Essay Flowers vs Weeds Essay Weeds vs. Flowers Many people see weeds as weeds and flowers as flowers, but they never take into consideration the things that make them so different and similar. Flowers and weeds all have their own garden and emotional aesthetic values. Preparing food also holds some similarities and differences between the two. These flowers and weeds, although simple at first, also hold some value of medicinal uses. There is more to know than a simple vase for flowers and a trash bag for weeds. The most known differences between weeds and flowers are by far the customs we attach to their beauty and value. If you love someone, you’ll get them roses, it’s simple. For those of us less likely to know the difference, a handful of weeds would not suffice. Much like the value we put into a fragile stem and petals, we also have to put our time and love into them as well. Flowers take time to grow, along with mulch instead of dirt, and they have specific growing and watering conditions; whereas weeds simply grow anywhere at any time, no matter how much you ignore them and loath their existence in your garden. Although there are the similarities that create the make-up of the two, they have a stem, petals, scent and their own defenses. : The main difference though, is how much time and effort we put into raising a beautiful flower, and the time and effort we put into clearing our landscape of the vermin we know as weeds. Throughout history, seeds, stems, and leaves of both flowers and weeds have contributed to human cookery. The culinary use of flowers dates back thousands of years to 140 BC. Many cultures since then have incorporated flowers into traditional foods. Many ancient oriental dishes commonly made use of daylily buds, and the Romans are well known for their use of violet mallow in many recipes. Italian and Hispanic cultures gave us stuffed squash blossoms, while Asian Indians still use rose petals in many dishes today. Though their popularity of being eaten has declined over the years, flowers are still used as sweeteners, flavorings, and garnishes. The same thing can be said about weeds as they are also used as spices today. Though weeds aren’t used as often as flowers, the most commonly used weed is the dandelion, which is occasionally used to make wine and used as a saute in some oils. The most commonly used flower today is the hop. Many people are unaware that this cone like flower is one of the most common ingredients in beer. While delicious flowers are enjoyed my many people, they aren’t the only plants to be consumed by humans today. Though it is common to think of weeds as pests, many people all over the world also use a variety of weeds while they are in the kitchen. In contrast to flowers being used as sweeteners, most weeds are used as spices and bases for salads. Clovers, Chickweed, Bitter Cress, and Thale Cress weeds are all commonly used in salads today. An interesting fact unknown to most people is that wild garlic is considered a weed. Besides cooking with plants, some weeds are used such as cleavers, which are commonly dried, ground up, and used as a flavoring in coffee. Though weeds and flowers may greatly differ in appearances, they both have been and continue to be very beneficial to humans in the kitchen. One major similarity in flowers and weeds is that they both hold medicinal purposes. Even though weeds are usually considered an eyesore, they can be very useful. Marijuana, a well known â€Å"weed† in most cultures, provides a pain killer. It is used by mostly cancer patients who are seeking relief of the pain and nausea caused by cancer treatments. The Spiderwort flower was once considered a cure for spider bites. Its large chromosomes are now useful for lab studies in Cytology. The flower is now used as an inexpensive way to test for pollution being that it changes from blue to pink that there is too much pollution present. Of course we should not forget one of the most common weeds, dandelions; which are always considered a nuisance in our gardens, but surprisingly holds great value. Dandelions can be made into a tea with the leaves and dried roots. This provides relief for digestive problems. Shown the topics of values, food uses, and medicinal purposes, these are the highlights of the crop. These build the foundation for comparing flowers to weeds, as you can see, it is more in depth than a simple glance along a sidewalk. Once this paper has taken root and been shown the care of thought, you’ll wonder too about the vast array of similarities and differences between flowers and weeds, and notice them for being more than simply just plants.