Being Written Reading

I walked into the local bookstore and it smelled of coffee. The delta blues was playing softly. I set up my workstation on a side table, preparing to take notes. There were eight marigolds, a half-eaten muffin, and a nearly empty mug of some unknown beverage in my midst. The gothic fellow manning the coffee stand ate some sort of biscuit behind the counter. He spoke to a co-worker of an art studio that he used to have. Meanwhile, a man with glasses and slightly shaggy brown hair was setting things up for the reading: the podium, the microphone, and the chairs.At first, I thought he was the author, but he wasn’t. William Conescu, the author, had short, curly black hair and no glasses. His eyelids were red. He seemed simultaneously nervous and illimitably delighted to be here. Support was present in the form of a close friend. This friend snapped a photo of William when the reading began. Before William Conescu approached the podium, a gray-haired lady placed flyers of the books tore’s current events on the eighteen chairs arranged in the open room. Then she made an introduction, speaking largely to the seven people in the cafe area.No one had yet sat in any of the chairs lined up in neat rows facing the podium. There were only four minutes left before the reading commenced. The sky darkened. Finally, two men draped their coats and scarves over the backs of chairs. I stood up to go to the restroom where there was graffiti on the walls, which, as usual, I could not decipher. When I returned there were eight people in attendance to the reading of Being Written, a novel by William Conescu. The gray-haired lady made a second introduction and turned the microphone over to the author.Being Written is William Conescu’s first novel and was released last month. William explained that up to this point he has written short fiction. Actually, for quite some time after undergraduate study, William put off writing, waiting for some stability – for th is job to start, for that move to be over. A theme in his novel, he said that many of the actors, writers, and musicians that he knew were not acting, writing, or playing. The protagonist of the novel is Daniel Fischer, and he is the sole character in the book that can hear the scratching of the author’s pencil.Unfortunately, this also grants him the painful insight that he is a minor character, and has been for some time. So when the author seems to take interest in a young woman at the bar, Daniel throws himself into the scene and her life. He is not entirely prepared for this though, and the fact that he is minor kills his self-esteem. The second person point-of-view only intensifies this neurosis. William read the bar scene dramatically, like a play. He injected the prose with energy; it came alive. He finished the scene, gave us some more summary, and began another scene much later in the novel.Daniel has evolved into a pawn used by Dehlia, the woman at the bar, in her r elationship with pianist, Graham. Daniel is excited to have been elevated to pawn status; he has never been a pawn before. Then, suddenly, William Conescu opened the floor for questions. Someone asked about the publishing process. He said he had a good experience with them; actually, they were the reason that this story developed into the full-length novel that it is, rather than becoming a novella contained in a collection. Another person asked about point-of-view.We learned that parts of the book are told in third person, parts are told in second; this allowed Daniel to be shown as an ordinary character in the story as well as close-up and neurotic. William writes with an outline, but does not strictly adhere to it; he likes to know that his writing is â€Å"going somewhere†. â€Å"Thank you’s† were exchanged, handshakes, and even phone numbers, which I found to be shocking. The author was sitting down, signing people’s books, looking up at them, rather than across the crowd from the mic. He said, â€Å"This has been really fun. † I believed it.

Progressive Era Essay

In the Progressive Movement that began in the late 1800s was about governmental reforms and correcting injustices in the American life. There were problems that were present in the American life and plans and reforms proposed during the Progressive Era to address the problems faced by many Americans in the early 1800s late 1900s. There were problems that were present in the American Life. Poor families lived in crowded 1 room houses (Doc1). Sanitation was very hard for poor families to keep up. Children even worked between the ages of ten and fifth teen years old with barely any pay (Doc3). Susan B. Anthony argued to support the demand for women’s right to vote (Doc8). Also in factories workers did not wash their hands while working. Some workers limbs, bugs, and rats were cut into the meats. All of these issues were major during the late 1800s and early 1900s for people in the U. S. Plans and reforms were proposed during the Progressive era to address the problems that were faced by many Americans in the early 1800s late 1900s. Jane Adams built an inexpensive house for poor families to live in named the â€Å"Haul House† in Chicago IL. This house was a great help to families. The child labor rate dropped between 1890 and 1920 (Doc3). Women were given their right to vote. Susan B. Anthony fought for women’s suffrage so woman can be treated equal as men (Doc8). Upton Sinclair wrote a book named â€Å"The Jungle† explaining how in factories spoiled meat could be used to be chopped up in other things (Doc2). A Progressive Party Platform was proposed to prevent industrial accidents for health and safety issues (Doc6). This helped with the workers limbs for being cut off in food products. President Teddy R. proposed the FDA act to prevent unhealthy foods from being sent out. Expiration dates and health expectations were required. These plans and reforms helped major Americans during the Progressive Movement. Therefore in the Progressive Movement that began in the late 1800s was about governmental reforms and correcting injustices in the American life. There were many problems that were present in the American life and plans and reforms that were proposed during the Progressive Era to address the problems faced by many Americans in the early 1800s late 1900s.

Evaluation of Foreign Modes of Market Entry Essay

Evaluation of Foreign Modes of Market Entry - Essay Example These are export, license and franchise, alliance, joint venture, and wholly owned subsidiary. Each mode will be discussed and analyzed in the subsequent paragraphs. In evaluating, we will find which among these modes would be the best entry strategy for our car manufacturer who wants to take advantage of the low cost of production and seek new market opportunities elsewhere. The company may choose any of these modes to enter a new market and the thing that could constrain them is the degree of control, reasons that could produce different strategies of market participants as discussed below. Exporting increases profitability. Some companies found exporting ideal because of advantages of increased profitability, spreading risks, economies of scale, and enhanced innovation (Dun & Bradstreet). Exporting means a firm’s sales of goods or services produced in the home market and sold in the host country through an entity in the host country (Investopedia. n.d.). Export increases pr ofitability because lifestyles and habits are different from each country, thus it opens up the wider opportunity for products and services much more for products that have reached declining stage in the local market, or demand has diminished. Exports are one of the oldest forms of trade and occur on a large scale basis between two countries that have fewer barriers to trade. The growth of car exports has been observed in China in 2012 reaching 1,056,091 units, an increase of 29% from 2011. Most of their exports go to emerging countries (â€Å"Top Chinese Automakers†.2013). Exporting allows the company to spread the risks US market is swamped with various car models, making it...China is one of the emerging economies today. It is predicted that in the distant future, it will overshadow the United States as a leading economy because these multinationals are eyeing on this country for market entry. My study offers four modes of entry and a richer definition for each mode. Next, I related the advantages and disadvantages for each. Literature review suggests various modes that coincided with my view. Strong findings that I put forward in the study prove that joint venture is the more popular mode of entry; that firms go into a joint venture to avoid too many legal restrictions of the host country and as an easy access. Control is significant in all modes of entry. Weighing things over, exporting has the least degree of control, followed by licensing, alliance, and joint venture while the highest form of control is the wholly owned subsidiary. The decision, however still depends on the ultimate objective of the foreign company in entering a foreign market.

The Communication Revolution, Entertainment , and the Arts Essay

The Communication Revolution, Entertainment , and the Arts - Essay Example The issue of surveillance has not eluded the American public and mix reactions pertaining to the matter continue to bombard the political system. Proposed bills such as Total Information Awareness would have granted the government access to the most promiscuous details in the life of any American they deem a threat to democracy. The setup of the internet creates questions of whether or not those who use it are really protected. The cookies that websites place in the computer systems can be vehicles in meddling with personal privacy. Alongside this, the internet can also serve the purpose of hacking credit card information and emails that has been recorded to incite cases such as identity theft. The availability of these technologies has introduced a number of different social phenomena that are almost incomprehensible years ago. Things like googling yourself has surfaced and has even become a colloquially accepted verb. All the other networking websites like MySpace, Friendster, Multiply, Facebook, etc. compels people to communicate with acquaintances and strangers. In 2003 the American congress prevented the Pentagon in its planned project designed to allow surveillance of any American through accessing their e-mail and other databases that contain information regarding finances, health and travel. Had the project been allowed, it would have allowed Army intelligence to use any of the information they have gathered against anyone. Luckily, both Houses agreed that this is a direct threat to personal privacy and the Total Information Awareness project was put into question (Clymer, 2003). The Pentagon concept would have given analysts who are highly trained in Intelligence to accumulate and perceive information linking any citizen to any group, enabling alerts and allowing shared data among individual computers to be viewed. They would have had

Developing Scenarios of the Future of the Social Networking Sector Assignment

Developing Scenarios of the Future of the Social Networking Sector Strategic Decision Making - Assignment Example This model considers the social network systems as interactive systems with different components that have to be considered, and how they interact with one another. The model as designed represents a technology push innovation. Technology push describes a situation where an emerging technology, or a set of existing technologies act as the driving force of an innovative product and mode of problem solution in the market (Herstatt & Lettl 2000, 2). In this case, the new social networking technology when transformed into a radical product or process innovation claims its own market positions. The use of social networking in social communication and in a business platform represents an innovation that has come into being out of research and development. The fact that technology push is marked by a higher market uncertainty requires different methods in social networking are required to win in a competitive market (Herstatt & Lettl 2000, 2). ... s have to apply business model innovations that respond to changes in the external and internal environments, and anticipate market needs in such a new environment to enhance value creation in serving customers. The type of reasoning used in this method was inductive reasoning. This is because; inductive reasoning requires increasing semiotics content in inferring information as one proceeds from premises to a conclusion (Wilheim 2004, 21). The various facts that affect communication in social networking as a social tool, or a business platform were considered when making an informed conclusion, constituting to an inductive reasoning. Evaluation: Systems thinking Summary of Osterwalder  &  Pigneur  Business Model Canvas The advantage of the systems theory is its potential to offer a trans-disciplinary framework that necessitates normative and critical real relationships between human perceptions, and the worlds they purport to represent (Laszlo & Krioppner 1998, 3). Therefore c ompanies have to employ business –models innovations aimed at responding to both internal and external changes, and in anticipating market needs in a process of creating value to customers. Social networking sites such as Facebook, Orkut, Bebo, and Twitter have millions of fans globally who visit these sites each month (Kazeniac, 2009). These sites have of late gained much attention and support from multinationals and other organizations in search of markets making it plausible to have an integrated platform that connects these social networks with business platforms to tap this rich market. The proposed model on the future of social networks offers in integration of factors necessary to enhance effective communication in both the social and corporate world. For example, students, companies,

UNIQLO in China Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

UNIQLO in China - Essay Example UNIQLO in China In a Company Perspective. The concept of marketing problem can be termed as a constraint or issue due to which organizations face significant hurdles in launching or promoting any product or service. The marketing problems of an organization can be identified through analyzing its internal influencing factors. With respect to the company perspective, the internal factors involve few major dimensions that influence the marketing activities of an organization. In this context, these dimensions can be associated with 4Ps of marketing mix including product, price, place/distribution and promotional attributes of the organizations (The Chartered Institute of Management, 2009). These dimensions have been discussed hereunder. Product Development Factors With respect to the business strategy of UNIQLO, the organization tends to possess two major strengths including the usage of quality based materials along with unique functional materials in manufacturing its range of fashionable garments and apparels. Specially mentioning, the use of high quality materials such as Merino wool, cashmere and Supima cotton in producing Women's Winter Style products enabled the organization to comply with the requirements of the customers. Moreover, the unique functional material in designing Women's Winter Style products tends to create increasing demand in the markets during the cold/winter season across different geographical locations (Fast Retailing Co., Ltd, 2013). Promotional Variables Across every season, the promotional campaigns of UNIQLO incorporate endorsing its core products including HEATTECH, ultra-light down jackets, fleece and polo shirts among others throughout its different overseas retail locations. The promotional campaign s of the company focus on developing advertising activities encompassing different tele-media (Fast Retailing Co., Ltd, 2013). Pricing Variables The pricing strategy of Women's Winter Style products is also a major attribute of UNIQLO to successfully achieve its business objectives across the markets where it operates. The company provides quality based Women's Winter Style products in a more reasonable price as compared to other fashion retailers. In this regard, the adequate control of inventory along with the marketing department and merchandisers of the company facilitate to reduce the cost up to 30% in comparison with the regular price of the products (Fast Retailing Co., Ltd, 2013). Place/Distribution Variables In relation to the place/distribution variable, the continuous expansion in the global destinations significantly provides adequate support to UNIQLO in order to avoid different sorts of marketing problems. Currently, the organization operates more than 11,000 retail st ores across different nations including the UK, the US, France, Russia along with Japan and other major Asian countries (Fast Retailing Co., Ltd, 2013). 1.2 In an Industry Perspective. According to marketing concepts, the industry influencing factors have also major bearing upon the organizations to face different marketing problems. In order to critically assess the major influencing factors of the fashion garments business industry, the analysis of Porter’s five forces would enable to critically identify the current marketing strategy of UNIQLO. These have been discussed hereunder. Power of Buyer According to the recent phenomenon, the power of buyer is relatively high for UNIQLO due to increasing number of fashion retailers.

Interpretation and analysis of a child's development Case Study

Interpretation and analysis of a child's development - Case Study Example tion seem to be improving because she is better at putting together simple puzzles and drawing shapes; however, she is yet to improve on the coordination with pouring liquids because some spills. Lily is able to hold crayons with her fingers rather than her fist; besides, she is able to dress and undress with little help. Lily is much nimble because at this stage in her development she is able to handle small objects, use age-appropriate scissors and draw a person with at least four body parts that are essentially a face two stick legs and arms (Educator observation notes, 2013; Educator Video recording, 2013; Educator audio recording, 2013). Cognitive development At her age, Lily is able to communicate clearly in sentence of 5 to 6 words or even in complete sentences and even tell stories. Lily is able to ask many questions and she is even able to correctly name familiar colours, understand the concept of different and count and comprehend the concept of counting. She has a vocabula ry of several words, acts out social encounters in play activities, she understands her name and gender and she is able to share and engage in cooperative play. She is imaginative and talks to the toys and imitates what she sees around her, she begins to make friends outside her immediate family because she is able to communicate with playmates; hence, she shows enjoyment in engaging in such activities. Through her associative play, she begins to share with other children and playing with Alfie who is her age mate helps in establishing socialization skills. Cognitive learning in Lily involves not only learning the alphabet and counting but also absorbing information, asking questions, processing and understanding. Lily has a good grasp of language and can say and understand hundreds of... In the study, Lily is able to speak and be understood at least half the time and she is capable of carrying out a conversation of 2-3 sentences. The video of the water play shows that the girl is anxious to learn new things, full of enthusiasm and energy and does things alone. This assessment of Lily aims at assessing her physical development, cognitive development and social and emotional developmental with regard to development theory, milestones and curriculum documents in the area. Moreover, the assessment also offers recommendations for the identified needs of the child in focus based on the various ways educators can help in enhancing effective brain development in children. The child can learn about herself and construct her identity within the context of the family and community, which correlates with Vygotsky’s theory. This involves her relationship with people, places and things as well as actions and responses of others because identity is never fixed but shaped by experiences. When the child has positive experiences she is able to develop the understanding that she is significant and respected and develops a sense of belonging. In early childhood, a child develops a common sense of fitting in when she feels acknowledged, creates attachments and trusts individuals who care for her, which is in line with Bandura’s socio-economic theory.

The Jewish state in Palestine Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Jewish state in Palestine - Assignment Example As it stands today, in my opinion, there will not be a peaceful solution to this issue. The Balfour Declaration created in 1917 stated that Britain, which at the time ruled Palestine, was in favor of creating a Jewish homeland. The term â€Å"Palestinian† is a misnomer. The land of Palestine was under the rule of foreign power since Biblical times. The Arabs living in Palestine never had a ruling government. Britain and the UN, after World War II, set aside part of Palestine to create the new State of Israel. Another misconception is Jewish families came and threw Arab families off their land. The Jewish immigration since Herzl’s time had Jews coming to Palestine and buying land from local Arabs. After the Israel declared their independence, Iran, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Jordon, and Lebanon immediately attacked the new nation. The newly formed IDF (Israel Defense Forces) beat back the attacking forces and after a year won what is today Israel, excluding the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Golan Heights. The Six Day War and Yom Kippur War gave Israel the Sinai, Gaza Strip, West Bank, and Gaza Strip. Through negotiations the Sinai was returned to Egypt. The others are known as the Occupied Territories. When Israel formed their government, Jewish interests were placed first. The Holocaust had brought the cry â€Å"Never Again† to the lips of every Israel. The Arabs or â€Å"Palestinians† felt ostracized in their own country. The new language was Hebrew first, then Arab, and the English. Jews from all over the world flooded the tiny country, which is no bigger than New Jersey. The refugees of the wars, instead of leaving for an Arab country, were placed in refugees camps. Refugee camps in the Occupied Territory are cramped apartments where hunger and poverty run wild. The Palestinians started fighting against Israel through terror attacks on civilian targets. The Mahlot School

Advertisements and Tourism Websites Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Advertisements and Tourism Websites - Essay Example Advertisements and websites are the most prolific example of segmented marketing, where the target group decides the contents of advertisements. In the rapid globalization and advancing technology, websites of tourism are the most popular form of advertisements for the tourism industry whose. Tourism websites have become popular primarily because they are able to provide the customers with the necessary information and services that facilitate their desire for relaxation and at the same time whet their appetite for adventure. People have the inherent urge for adventure and tourist industry, the world over has left no stone unturned in order to provide an exciting adventure in the remotest part of the world. The information explosion and e-commerce activities in the tourism industry have further added to the attraction. The websites have made even a middle-class person, with limited resources, to crave for the attractions and exciting new packages that are on offers by the travel agen cies. ‘http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel’ is one such website that is designed to seduce the customers with a vast choice of places offering attractive schemes. Rest and relaxation are an integral part of human nature where different people have different notion of rejuvenating themselves. The tips given by the travelers are designed to inspire and boost the confidence of the future customers.

African Americans and Slavery Essay Example for Free

African Americans and Slavery Essay The American Revolution was a time of great turmoil for all men and women in the United States. Great debates came and went during this time; slavery and the freedom of black men being the main problems in these debates. Slaves were used for a great number of things during the American revolutionary period. The arrival of slavery to the American colonies began in the 1600s and started out in Virginia. As the years passed more and more African-Americans were brought into the colonies to be used as labor workers. The beginning amount of slaves continued to grow and by the beginning of the revolution there were about 273,000 slaves spread throughout the American states. With the coming of the revolution all African-Americans, slave or free, knew something was coming and each had a different response to these comings. There were differences in the responses of slaves and free men during the American Revolution. There were also consequences to their choices. â€Å"Gaining freedom in a land of captivity and wresting equality from a society whose founding documents guarantee it has been the consuming desire and everlasting hope that has kept harrowed bodies and weary souls going. † In the southern states African-American slaves were treated harsher than those in the north. The plantations down south required back –breaking hours of work in the sun that White Americans believed could only be done by those they had bought. There was a reason for them to be there and until they could no longer work they were to do all things imaginable for their owners, no questions asked. Some of these slaves thought it was easier to run away from their owners and that in doing so they would have a chance to fight for their country. Slaves could either flee to the north or they could flee to Spanish owned Florida. In cases where a master was called upon to fight, they would send a slave in their place and if they lived long enough to return home they earned freedom. Many of the slaves decided that if they had a chance to gain their freedom by joining the war effort then they would gladly take their masters place. They also believed that with the beginning to the revolutionary period would bring a new deed to the land and when it was over there would no longer be a need for slaves. The consequences for slaves in the south were innumerable. Like many slaves, they took this time to run from slave masters and plantations. If these southern slaves were caught, depending on the owner, the slave could suffer mild to severe consequences. Depending on the demeanor of the owner a slave could be punished in several different ways. Whipping, branding, slapping, being dunked underwater, and kicking were just some forms of punishment. The most severe punishments were to cut off a body part like an ear in the hopes that the slave would learn and never run again. There were also â€Å"nice† slave owners that chose not to punish their slaves. There justification for not punishing their slaves was so that they would continue to work and so that the owner could buy more slaves with the money that they continued to pool in from the work. Because of some owners that continuously harassed Washington, he stopped allowing slaves into his army. But General Washington, fearing rebellion, created an order that stated that all blacks were not allowed to fight. Later he partially reversed the order and allowed only free black men to fight with him. Some slaves believed that taking a chance to flee towards the north was a far-fetched idea. They were seeking freedom in the quickest possible way. Lord Dunmore sent out a proclamation that stated in exchange for freedom any black that came to him would fight against the patriots and become a loyalist. Dunmore’s promise of freedom fueled black slaves to escape and even some patriots fled to fight as a loyalist. After the war, true to his word, slaves gained their freedom. Some of these newly freed slaves went to Britain but many of them stayed in the Americas. On the other hand free men in the north believed the revolution would bring about change for the better. Their idea of the revolution was that they were being given the chance to gain independence from Great Britain and also for themselves. It was a defining moment in history that they were to be a part of. Fighting with white men gave these free black men a sense of honor and it also gave them a job where they could earn a little money to put towards getting homes and things of that nature. Men from the north gradually began to realize that they could fight with their brethren and bring independence to the land. General Washington passed an order stating that no black man was allowed into his army. This order came about because of general angst from some slave owners. These owners believed that there should not be any blacks fighting for the independence because they were only good for being slaves and they would never have say over anything. After some time Washington, fearing not having enough men to fight against the British, partially reversed this order to allow only free black men. Other than this there were not many consequences that are recorded for free black men. These free men not only fought for the independence of the nation but also for their independence and the independence of other black men and women. African-Americans from the north and south chose to join the continental army because they believed that they should help make the place the lived independent from a tyranny that had no say in the matters of a new country. They felt that this tyranny could take their rights and place them under unfair rule once again. Some of the freemen and slaves that had started out in the continental army decided to run to the British army but were not successful in their plights. Nash called the revolution the ‘greatest slave rebellion in American history’ because it was just that. The revolution opened up new grounds for slaves to rebel against owners because it was the most opportune time for them to do so. â€Å"If any group within America’s diversified people came close to answering John Adams’s plea that ‘we must all be soldiers,’ it was black Americans. No part of revolutionary society responded to the call for arms with anywhere near the enthusiasm of those who were black. Proportionate to their number, African American males and some females were more likely to join the fray than white Americans. † According to this excerpt from another one of Nash’s books, African-Americans were much more adept to answering the plea of John Adams. If there were more African-American fighters than white that meant that more black males were subject to put themselves in danger in order to gain freedom. They would rather have one day of freedom, not knowing if they would die in the next second, hour, or day, than be a slave for the rest of their lives. This is one of the reasons why Nash called the revolution the ‘greatest slave rebellion in American history’. â€Å"Desperate to fill the thinned ranks of its regiments, states offered freedom†¦ to serve during the continuance of the present war with Great Britain. Every black enlistee would be ‘immediately discharged from the service of his master or mistress, and be absolutely free, as if he had never been encumbered with any kind of servitude or slavery. † If states were desperate to have more men come into their ranks then there was nothing really stopping slaves from escaping their masters and coming to fight. They all wanted freedom from someone. Slaves wanted freedom from their bonds that were tied to the soil they worked and the Americans wanted freedom from Great Britain. Both groups had their reasons to fight and the only way slaves knew how to become free was to rebel and run to an army. This was a time for large rebellions on all fronts not just from the slaves. It was a rebellion against the British from the former colonists and a rebellion against the men and women that were taken from their homes to somehow create new ones. â€Å"It may have been, as Nash says ‘the greatest slave rebellion in American history,’ but for most of the rebels it ended like the others, in death. Slaves who supported the American side fared better, but not much better. Only with great reluctance did Washington allow some to join his army. Other Virginians had another wartime use for them. In 1780 the state legislature offered salves as a bounty for enlistment in the war against British tyranny. The revolution did see enactment of measures for gradual emancipation in the northern states, but the number who benefited was small. † My view on the American Revolution has changed somewhat because of how the African-Americans were treated during and after the period of war. The Americans act as though they had not been fighting alongside each other and because of this withhold distaste for the blacks. The completely disregard the idea that every man is created equal and has certain unalienable rights. They do not extend these ideas that were written down on the Declaration of Independence to the free black Americans. Men that had fought with and under Washington were not looked as the same because the color of their skin and were not given the same rights. Because of how they were treated I see the Revolution more as a war against Britain to save other whites from tyranny rather than to gain independence for all mankind. .of Revolution (Harvard University: 2006), 1. [ 2 ]. Taymor, . US History Documents. Last modified 2005. Accessed January 27, 2013. http://inside. sfuhs. org/dept/history/US_History_reader/Chapter2/Nashfighting. pdf. [ 3 ]. Taymor, . US History Documents. Last modified 2005. Accessed January 27, 2013. http://inside. sfuhs. org/dept/history/US_History_reader/Chapter2/Nashfighting. pdf. [ 4 ]. Edmund S. Morgan, review of The Unknown American Revolution:  .

The Concept Of Medicalization: Shifting Ideas

The Concept Of Medicalization: Shifting Ideas Medicalization is term for the erroneous tendency by society-often perpetuated by health professionals to view effects of socioeconomic disadvantage as purely medical issues. It is the process by which human conditions and problems come to be defined and treated as medical conditions and problems, and thus come under the authority of doctors and other health professionals to study, diagnose, prevent or treat. The process of medicalization can be driven by new evidence or theories about conditions, or by developments in social attitudes or economic considerations, or by the development of new purported treatments. Medicalization is often claimed to bring benefits, but also costs, which may not always be clear. Medicalization is studied in terms of the role and power of professions, patients and corporations, and also for its implications for ordinary people whose self-identity and life-decisions may depend on the prevailing concepts of health and illness. Once a condition is classed a s medical, a medical tends to be used rather than a social model. Medicalization may also be termed pathologization (from pathology), or in some cases disease mongering. The term medicalization entered academic and medical publications in the 1970s, for example in the works of figures such as Peter Conrad and Thomas Szasz. They argued that the expansion of medical authority into domains of everyday existence was promoted by doctors and was a force of social control that was to be rejected in the name of liberation. This critique was embodied in now-classic works such as Conrads The discovery of hyperkinesis: notes on medicalization of deviance, published in 1973 (hyperkinesis was the term then used to describe what we might now call ADHD). Medicalization explains a situation which had been previously explained in a moral, religious or social terms now become defined as the subject of medical and scientific knowledge. Many years ago for example some children were deemed and regarded as problematic, misbehaving and unruly. Some adults were shy and men who were balding just wore hats to hide it. And that was that. Nevertheless, nowadays all these descriptions could and possibly would be attributed to a type of illness or disease and be given a diagnosis or medicine to treat it in some cases. Medicalization explains this. Likewise, medicalization has been applied to a whole variety of problems that have come to be defined as medial, ranging from childbirth and the menopause through to alcoholism and homosexuality (Gabe et al. 2006: 59). Furthermore, the term explains the process in where particular characteristics of every day life become medically explained, thus come under the authority of doctors and other health professionals to study, diagnose, prevent and or treat the problem. Originally, the concept of medicalisation was strongly associated with medical dominance, involving the extension of medicines jurisdiction over erstwhile normal life events and experiences. More recently, however, this view of a docile lay populace, in thrall to expansionist medicine, has been challenged. Thus, as we enter a post-modern era, with increased concerns over risk and a decline in the trust of expert authority, many sociologists argue that the modern day consumer of healthcare plays an active role in bringing about or resisting medicalisation. Such participation, however, can be problematic as healthcare consumers become increasingly aware of the risks and uncertainty surrounding many medical choices. The emergence of the modern day consumer not only raises questions about the notion of medicalisation as a uni-dimensional concept, but also requires consideration of the specific social contexts in which medicalisation occurs. In this paper, we describe how the concept of m edicalisation is presented in the literature, outlining different accounts of agency that shape the process. We suggest that some earlier accounts of medicalisation over-emphasized the medical professions imperialistic tendencies and often underplayed the benefits of medicine. With consideration of the social context in which medicalisation, or its converse, arises, we argue that medicalisation is a much more complex, ambiguous, and contested process than the medicalisation thesis of the 1970s implied. In particular, as we enter a post-modern era, conceptualizing medicalisation as a uni-dimensional, uniform process or as the result of medical dominance alone is clearly insufficient. Indeed, if, as Conrad and Schneider (1992) suggested, medicalisation was linked to the rise of rationalism and science (ie to modernity), and if we are experiencing the passing of modernity, we might expect to see a decrease in medicalisation. The idea of medicalization is perhaps related only indirectly to social constructionanism, in that it does not question the basis of medical knowledge as such, but challenges its application. Nettleton continues and states that is draws attention to the fact that medicine operates as a powerful institution of social control (Nettleton 2006: 25). It does this by claiming expertise in areas in life which previously were not regarded as medical problems or matters. This includes such life stages such as ageing, childbirth, alcohol consumption and childhood behaviour moreover, the availability of new pharmacological treatments and genetic testing intensifies these processesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ thus it constructs, or redefines, aspects of normal life as medical problems. (Conrad and Schneider 1990 as cited in Nettleton 2006: 25). Medicalization can occur on three different and particular levels according to Conrad and Schneider (1980). The first was explained as conceptually when a medical vocabulary is used to define a problem. In some instances, doctors do not have to be involved and an example if this is AA. The second was the institutional level, institutionally, when organizations adopt a medical approach to treating a problem in which they specialise and the third was at the level of doctor patient interaction when a problem is defined as a medical and medical treatment occurs (as cited in Gabe et al 2004:59). These examples all involve doctors and their treatments directly, not including alcoholism which has other figures to help people such as the AA. The third level was the interactional level and this was where the problem, social problem, becomes defined as medical and medicalization occurs as part of a doctor-patient interaction. Medicalization shows the shifting ideas about health and illness. Health and illness does not only include such things as influenza or the cold, but deviant behaviours. Deviant behaviours which were once merely described as criminal, immoral or naughty before have now been labelled with medical meanings. Conrad and Schneider five-staged sequential process of medicalizing deviant behaviour. Stage one involves the behaviour itself as being deviant. Chronic drunkenness was regarded merely as highly undesirable, before it was medically labelled as chronic drunkenness. The second stage occurs when the medical conception of a deviant behaviour is announced in a professional medical journey according to Conrad and Schneider. A prominent thinker in the idea of medicalization was Ivan Illich, who studied it profusely and was very influential, in fact being one of the earliest philosophers to use the term medicalization. Illichs appraisal of professional medicine and particularly his use of the term medicalization lead him to become very influential within the discipline and is quoted to have said that Modern medicine is a negation of health. It isnt organized to serve human health, but only itself, as an institution. It makes more people sick than it heals. Illich attributed medicalization to the increasing professionalization and bureaucratization of medical institutions associated with industrialization (Gabe et al 2004: 61). He supposed that due to the development of modern medicine, it created a reliance on medicine and doctors thus taking away peoples ability to look after themselves and engage in self care. In his book Limits to medicine: Medical nemesis (1975) Illich disputed that the medical profession in point of fact harms people in a process known as iatrogenesis. This can be elucidated as when there is an increase in illness and social problems as a direct result of medical intervention. Illich saw this occurring on three levels. The first was the clinical iatrogenesis. These involved serious side-effects which were are often worse than the original condition. The negative effects of the clinical intervention outweighed the positive and it also conveyed the dangers of modern medicine. There were negative side effects of medicine and drugs, which included poisoning people. In addition, infections which could be caught in the hospital such as MRSA and errors caused my medical negligence. The second level was the social iatrogenesis whereby the general public is made submissive and reliant on the medical profession to help them cope with their life in society. Furthermore all suffering is hospitalised and medicine undermines health indirectly because of its impact on social organisation of society. In the process people cease to give birth, for example, be sick or die at home And the third level is cultural iatrogenesis, which can also be referred to as the structural. This is where life processes such as aging and dying become medicalized which in the process creates a society which is not able to deal with natural life process thus becoming a culture of dependence. Moreover, people are dispossessed of their ability to cope with pain or bereavement for example as people rely on medicine and professionals. (Illick 1975) Sociologists such as Ehrenreich and English had argued that womens bodies were being medicalized. Menstruation and pregnancy had come to be seen as medical problems requiring interventions such as hysterectomies. Nettleton furthered this notion and discussed this in relation to childbirth. The Medicalization of childbirth is as a result of professional dominance. She stated that the control of pregnancy and childbirth has been taken over by a predominantly male medical profession. Medicine can thus be regarded as patriarchal and exercising an undue social control over womens lives. From conception to the birth of the baby, the women are closely monitored thus medical monitoring and intervention in pregnancy childbirth are now routine processes. Childbirth is classified as a medical problem therefore it becomes conceptualized in terms of clinical safety, and women are encouraged to have their babies in hospitals. This consequently results in women being dependent on medical care. Nevertheless recent studies and evidence have shown that it may actually be safer to have babies at home because there would have been less susceptible to infection and technocological interference (Oakley 1884, as cited in Nettleton 2006: 26) Medicalization combines phenomenological and Marxist approaches of health and illnessà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ in that it considers definitions of illness to be products of social interactions or negotiations which are inherently unequal (Nettleton 2006: 26). Marxism discussed medicalization and linked it with oppression, arguing that medicine can disguise the underlying causes of disease which include poverty and social inequality. In the process they see health as an individual problem, rather than a societys problem. Medicalization is studied in terms of the role and power of professions, patients and corporations, and also for its implications for ordinary people whose self-identity and life-decisions may depend on the prevailing concepts of health and illness. Once a condition is classed as medical, a medical model of disability tends to be used rather than a social model. It constructs, or redefines, aspects of normal life as medical problems (Nettleton 2006: 26). Medicalization has been referred to as the processes by which social phenomena come to be perceived and treated as illnesses. It is the process in by issues and experiences that have previously been accounted for in religious, moral, or social contexts then become defined as the subject of scientific medical knowledge. The idea itself questions the belief that physical conditions themselves constitute an illness. It argues that the classification and identification of diseases is socially constructed and. It has been suggested that medicine is seen as being instilled with subjective assumptions of the society in which it developed. Moreover, it argues that the classification and identification of diseases is socially constructed and, along with the rest of science, is far from achieving the ideals of objectivity and neutrality. The medical thesis has much to recommendà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦including the creation of new understanding of the social processes involved in the development and response to medical diagnosis and treatment To understand the level of social power that the medical community exercises through medicalization, Conrad explains that physicians have medicalized social deviance. They accomplish this by claiming the medical basis of matters such as hyperactivity, madness, alcoholism and compulsive gambling [Conrad, p 107]. By medicalizing social matters, medical professionals have the power to legitimize negative social behavior, such as the case of suspected killers in judicial courts who claim temporary insanity and are, therefore, exonerated on medical basis [Conrad, p 111]. In extending this concept, the Endocrine Society may have medicalized social deviance in men who reduce their work motivation or become characteristically unpleasant because they are experiencing andropause. In effect, despondency in older men might become an indicator of male menopause rather than a possible indicator of social deviance. Physicians also play a direct and significant role in the medicalization of social experiences. In analyzing the doctor-patient interaction of medicalization, Kaw argues that medical professionals have medicalized racial features by encouraging cosmetic surgery among Asian American women, for example, in order to avoid the stereotypical physical features of small and slanty eyes that are often associated with passivity, dullness and lack of sociability [Kaw, p 75]. Kaw asserts that plastic surgeons use medical terms to problematize the shape of their eyes so as to define it as a medical condition [Kaw, p 81]. Their use of technical terms and expressions should be questioned, especially since the power of such language influences Asian American women to pursue cosmetic surgery, when it is not necessary [Kaw, p 82]. Analogously, the Endocrine Society medicalized testosterone deficiency by defining it as Andropause; this helped perpetuate the notion, among older individuals, that if the y lack sexual drive or sense depression and fatigue, they should seek medical attention because they are experiencing an acute medical condition rather than a stage in the physiological cycle. The role played by the health care structures in medicalizing conditions is enhanced by that of the pharmaceutical industry. In order to achieve implementation of a drug in the market, the medicalization of a problem is critical [Conrad, p 111]. Once a medical definition for male menopause was established, the pharmaceutical company further medicalized the problem by launching strong advertisement campaigns aimed at older men and physicians alike, so as to popularize the drug among the general public and medical community [Groopman, 2002]. In a Time magazine advertisement, the industry appealed to the emotions of older men by linking low sex drive to the decline of testosterone levels rather than to a life process [Groopman 2002]. In this manner, the pharmaceutical industries profit based ideology facilitates the medicalization of testosterone deficiency by popularizing conditions that may be exceedingly common among health product consumers. Medicalization also changes patients ideologies of biomedicine and leads them to believe that biomedicine must not only offer cure for illnesses, but also offer life enhancements. Similar to the way that impotence and hair loss was medicalized by promoting drugs like Viagra to enhance sexual performance, and solutions like Rogaine for hair re-growth, male menopause has been medicalized because it causes low sex drive among other general symptoms [Groopman, 2002]. As a consequence, older men will opt to not only seek but demand life enhancements achievable through medicine disregarding the fact that such treatments can be detrimental to health. In fact, Groopman states that known side effect of testosterone therapy include abnormal enlargement of the breasts, testicular shrinkage, congestive heart failure and enlargement of the prostate gland [Groopman, 2002]. Medicalizing a problem can be harmful and deadly, yet medical professionals perpetuate this dangerous behavior by medicalizing conditions that patients may seek to treat for their personal wellbeing It is important to realize that medicalization is not merely the result of medical imperialism but rather the interactive process that involves society and the health community; [Conrad, p 115]. It includes patients and doctors alike. Nonetheless, awareness of the mechanisms by which the medical community affects society is important because medicine pertains to all health consumers. Male menopause only serves as one of the many examples of life experiences that have become medicalized by the healthcare community. Concluding this essay, the concept of medicalization started with the medical dominance which involved the increase of medicines influence and labelling over things regarded as normal life events and experiences. However in recent time, this view of a submissive lay populace, in thrall to expansionist medicine, has been challenged. As a consequence, as we enter a post-modern era, with increased concerns over risk and a decline in the trust of expert authority, many sociologists argue that the modern day consumer of healthcare plays an active role in bringing about or resisting medicalization. Furthermore Such participationà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦can be problematic as healthcare consumers become increasingly aware of the risks and uncertainty surrounding many medical choices. Moreover the emergence of the modern day consumer not only raises questions about the notion of medicalisation as a uni-dimensional concept, but also requires consideration of the specific social contexts in which medical isation occurs (Ballard and Elston 2005). In addition they suggest that as we enter a post-modern era, conceptualizing medicalisation as a uni-dimensional or as the result of medical dominance primarily is insufficient.

Submarine warfare :: essays research papers

Submarine Warfare It took World War I to prove the worth of submarines. Prior to that time, submarines played only a small role in the plans of fleet commanders, serving primarily only as coastal defense units. For the most part, fleet commanders ridiculed the idea that the submarine had a place in naval strategy and tactics. They believed that the submarine was only a play thing. It diverted time and money from other more useful and dependable branches of the service. This view was to suddenly change when, on 17 September 1914, the German submarine force proved the importance of undersea warfare. On that day, the German submarine U-9 spotted a cloud of smoke and penetrating masts on the horizon. As they came closer, Otto Weddigen, commanding officer of the U-9, could make out three cruisers steaming abreast at a speed of about 10 knots. Each was seperated from the others by two miles. Weddigen gave the order to dive. At 6:20 a.m., he ordered the first torpedo fired. It hit the cruiser HMS ABOUKIR, which began to list heavily. Within 25 minutes, she had capsized and sunk. ABOUKIR had been cruising with her sisters HMS CRESSY and HMS HOUGE. When ABOUKIR was rent by an explosion and sank, the commanding officers of the CRESSY and HOUGE assumed that she had struck a mine. They closed in and began rescue operations. HMS HOUGE was next to go. Two torpedoes struck her hull --sinking her in less than 10 minutes. A glimpse of the U-9's periscope suddenly m ade CRESSY's captain aware of what had occured. CRESSY tried to make a run for it. It was too late. At 7:17 a.m., Widdigen fired two more torpedoes. CRESSY rolled over on to her beam ends. Fifteen minutes later, she joined her sisters at the bottom. The news that the German submarine U-9 had attacked and sunk three British armored cruisers in the North Sea caused the entire world to sit up and take notice. Submarines were immediately given more thoughtful consideration. Germany entered World War I with but 28 submarines.

Hitler Youth Essay -- World War II WWII WW2 Nazi Germany

â€Å"The future of the German nation depends on its youth and the German youth shall have to be prepared for its future duties† The youth of Germany were an important target for Hitler. He knew that if his dream for the thousand year Reich were to be fulfilled he needed the loyalty of the young German people. But how did he obtain that loyalty? How did he set about bending the German children’s hearts and minds to his will? The answer is simple-the Hitler Youth. In the years from 1929 to 1933 economic hardship, a faltering political regime and generational tensions left many young people with no place to turn. The Nazis used this situation to their advantage, pointing out to the youths the way the Weimar republic government were failing to care for them. It appeared to young people that the Nazis were a party tailor made for the youth. Indeed, the Nazis realised the importance of youth, whom they considered indispensable in their quest for power. This is why many young, disenchanted, lower class youths put their stocks in the Nazi party and in particular, the Hitler youth. Ho...

social security Essay example -- essays research papers fc

In reading the book â€Å"Social Security and the Family† I learned a lot about the system that I had no idea about before. The book was fact filled and almost fun to read the need to know information. I gained much knowledge in the specifics of why the social security system is in need of reform, and why it will be inadequate in the years to come. One of the reasons our social security system isn’t working is because, â€Å"Social Security was modeled on the single-earner, married-couple family† (1). Times have changed dramatically since then.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When assessing the issues and current structure of the security system for change, â€Å"Four elements characterize the objectives of most tax expenditure programs, including Social Security† (179). A few of these issues are related to recent subjects addressed in class.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The first discussed is Income adequacy,† or the extent to which the program distributes more resources to those who are worse off than to those who are better off, typically measured by annual income. One important measure of the programs success in meeting this objective is its antipoverty effectiveness† (179). Since poverty is one of the main reasons for reform, this is a good issue to have been discussed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The second is individual equity, â€Å"based on the idea that individuals should get what they pay for† (181). The problem with this issue is that many people are not getting back all they deserve.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The third discussed as in class is horizontal equity, â€Å"or the equal treatment of individuals in equal circumstances† (181). The idea behind horizontal equity is to give families with about the same earning... ...nts' card games to repeat the promise. He has brought along his mother, Barbara Bush, to show he understands older people's concerns† (NYT). This is just one of the many problems we face in trying to fix the system for now and in the long run for when its time for the younger generations to retire. Social Security and the Family† is a very well written book in addressing the under-funded System and other unmet needs. Being edited by three individuals who are Mellissa M. Favreault, Frank J. Sammartino, and C. Eugene Steuerle gives the reader three times the information about the system. The Setup and way the book flowed kept you reading through the ideas with ease. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone because that is who the Social Security System affects. Works Cited New York Times. The New York Times Company. 2005   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Anne E. Kornblut. â€Å"Bush Opens Door to Changes in his Plan†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  March 23, 2005. http://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/23/politics/ 23social.html Melissa M. Favreault, Frank J. Sammartino, C.Eugene Steuerle, editors.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Social Security and the Family. The Urban Institute Press. 2002

Is Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe A Tragedy? Essay

The word â€Å"tragedy† refers primarily to a literary composition in which a central character called a tragic protagonist or hero suffers some serious misfortune which is not accidental, but in that the misfortune is logically connected with the hero’s actions. [1] When we read this definition of tragedy, it gives us a feeling that it is indeed Onkonkwo’s life summarized in a few lines, as in Things Fall Apart, he, being the protagonist has a complete reversal of fortune and in the end, all that he stood for, all his strengths bring him to his downfall. This ideal of a tragedy is very relevant in this novel. The title itself reinstates the fact that ‘things fall apart’ in this novel and therefore, tragedy strikes. For a work to be called a tragedy, the characters in it must possess certain traits [2]. Hence, to verify that â€Å"Things Fall Apart’ is a tragedy; we may analyze the character of the protagonist in this novel, who is Onkonkwo and get an overview of his qualities and traits. Firstly, the hero in the tragedy must be doomed from start, but bear no responsibility for possessing his flaw. In this novel, Onkonkwo since the beginning wished to be different from his effeminate, unsuccessful and lazy father, Unoka. As a result, he adopted his own ideals and values and gained will power, strength and determination. These qualities enabled him to become a great wrestler, strong warrior, wealthy farmer, and a highly respected member of his community. However, as he achieved more in life, his self confidence became his pride and his manliness turned into authoritativeness. Eventually, his strengths became his weaknesses. However, at the same time, Onkonkwo was forced into developing all these traits in him, because he had a fear of weakness due to having a father like Unoka. Another trait of a tragic hero is the fact the he should be a leader, so that his people experience his fall with him. Onkonkwo was indeed an important leader in his village. However, as he became more successful, he became vain and impatient with unsuccessful men. He openly flouted the many customs and traditions of the Ibo due to his unruly and violent behavior. He exhibited his anger unreasonably by beating up his wives and children, as he did in the week of peace which was considered sacred. Onkonkwo, however, committed his worst mistake when he participated in the killing of his adopted son, Ikemefuna. Despite being advised against it by the oldest member of the community, Onkonkwo disregarded him and he himself cut down his son, only because he was ‘afraid of being thought weak’. His ultimate blow came, when due to an accident, he shot dead the 16 year old son of Ogbuefi Ezeudu at his funeral. Thus, Onkonkwo lost all his prestige and was ostracized from the community, forced to live in exile for seven long years. Thus, due to his own tragic flaws there was a complete reversal in his fortune, which is another trait of a tragic hero. While in exile, Onkonkwo suffered greatly, as he was in great misery due to his son Nwoye, who also abandoned him and rejected him by changing his religion. When Onkonkwo returned from exile, he found a completely transformed community. He had lost all his respect. He always wanted his people to be strong and brave, but instead he found that all of them had become weak in front of the Christians, incapable of saving their traditions and culture. In the end, when a messenger from the District Commissioner’s office came to their village to hold a meeting, Onkonkwo impetuously killed him. His community however did not support him and his people backed away in fear. This eventually led him to his own death as crushed by the misfortunes, he committed suicide. Considering the traits of the hero in a tragedy again, he must be physically or spiritually wounded by his experiences, as in the case of Onkonkwo, which in fact resulted in his sad demise. According to Aristotle, a tragedy must also have consistency, which this novel certainly does have, since Onkonkwo, the main character in this work, consistently remains true to himself. Onkonkwo throughout the book stands up for himself, his beliefs and his community. And although he possesses his own shares of flaws, he also has some good traits in him, which proves that he did not really deserve this fate. This arouses pity and empathy for him amongst the readers. In conclusion, we can clearly say that Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart’ is a classical example of a tragedy. However, it is not only about the main protagonist’s personal tragedy but also about the tragic destruction of the Ibo, the tribe to which Onkonkwo belonged. This tragedy is caused because the people, themselves turn away from their own traditional gods and culture. Thus, the causes of this tragedy are inherent within the culture itself and the tragic element in this book has truly enhanced it even more.

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass Essay

In the autobiography, the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, there is an underlying theme of knowledge as the path to freedom. During Douglass’ time, slave owners deprived slaves of an education and as a result, the slaves were thus deprived of freedom. Knowledge among slaves is what the white men feared the most, as knowledge not only â€Å"spoiled† slaves, it also provided them with the insight that ultimately paved their road to freedom. Knowledge corrupts, or â€Å"spoils† slaves, as it happened with Frederick Douglass. Because uneducated slaves could not think for themselves, they were thus forced to obey their masters, or â€Å"thinkers† who made their decisions for them. After Douglass learned to read The Columbian Orator, a book that boldly denounced the immorality of slavery and the whites, he began to harbor such bitter resentment toward his masters that he â€Å"wishes [him]self dead.† Knowledge emboldened Douglass, and gave him the courage to rebel against his masters. As a result, Douglass vowed to â€Å"run away† from the â€Å"band of successful robbers †¦ that reduced him to slavery.† Indeed, wisdom had â€Å"spoiled† Douglass; he has now gained a keen insight that allowed him to fully articulate the inhumanities of his masters. Knowledge gave Douglass the ability to recognize the enormities of the corrupt white slave owners. Douglass, for instance, points out that it was the white man who â€Å"shut [Douglass’] mouth, and then ask why [he doesn’t] speak,† thus proving that slave owners neither allow slaves to think for themselves, nor do they allow the slaves a voice in that decision. Furthermore, slave owners had previously instilled in their slaves the idea that any man who is independent is doomed to fall; consequently, slaves were misled to believe that freedom is slavery. However, Douglass, an educated slave, was able to realize that he too was created equal, that he too had rights, and also that he was not a slave, but a free man. In this way, Douglass managed to set into motion the gears of his emancipation. For Frederick Douglass, education was his â€Å"pathway from slavery to freedom.† With his wisdom, he not only dispersed his experiences to other slaves but also stirred up sentiments within the white abolitionists as well. Unlike  their ignorant fellows, educated slaves can band together and finally reach for freedom. Works Cited 1. Douglass, Frederick. â€Å"The Church and Prejudice.† Plymouth County Anti-Slavery Society. Massachusetts, Plymouth County. 14 Nov. 1841. 2. Douglass, Frederick, Houston A. Baker, and William Lloyd Garrison. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass : An American Slave. New York: Penguin Books, Limited, 1982.

Internet Addiction Can Cause Physical Damage to the Brain, Just Like Drugs, Say Researchers

Internet addiction can cause physical damage to the brain, just like drugs, say researchers By  ROB WAUGH UPDATED:  07:42 GMT, 12 January 2012 Internet addiction disrupts nerve wiring in the brains of teenagers, a study has found – causing a level of brain damage normally seen in heavy substance abusers. Similar effects have been seen in the brains of people exposed to alcohol, cocaine and cannabis. The discovery shows that being hooked on a behaviour can be just as physically damaging as addiction to drugs, scientists believe.Brain scans showed significant damage to white matter in the brain, proving, the researchers claim, that ‘behavioural' addictions can cause physical brain damage in the same way as drug addictions. Internet addiction disorder (IAD) is a recently recognised condition characterised by out-of-control internet use. Sufferers spend unhealthy amounts of time â€Å"online† to the extent that it impairs their quality of life. Denied access to th eir computers, they may experience distress and withdrawal symptoms including tremors, obsessive thoughts, and involuntary typing movements of the fingers.Until now research on IAD has focused on psychological assessments. The new study, from China, used a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technique to look at its effects on brain structure. Scans were carried out on 17 internet-addicted adolescents and 16 non-addicted individuals, and the results compared. In the IAD-diagnosed teenagers, the scientists found evidence of disruption to ‘white matter' nerve fibres connecting vital parts of the brain involved in emotions, decision making, and self-control.A measurement of water diffusion called ‘fractional anisotropy' (FA) was used which provides a picture of the state of nerve fibres. Low FA was an indicator of poor nerve fibre structure. The researchers, led by Dr Hao Lei from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Wuhan, wrote in the online journal Public Library of Science O NE: ‘Our findings suggest that IAD demonstrated widespread reductions of FA in major white matter pathways and such abnormal white matter structure may be linked to some behavioural impairments. ‘In addition, white matter integrity may serve as a potential new treatment target.. ‘ Previous studies had shown abnormal white matter structure in the orbito-frontal regions of the brains of people exposed to alcohol, cocaine, cannabis, methamphetamine and ketamine, said the researchers. They added: ‘Our finding that IAD is associated with impaired white matter integrity in the orbito-frontal regions is consistent with these previous results. The scientists suspect the damage is caused by disrupted myelin, the fatty insulating sheath that coats nerve fibres and helps them to function. Commenting on the findings, Dr Henrietta Bowden-Jones, consultant psychiatrist at Imperial College London, said: ‘This type of research exploring the differences between normal b rains and brains of people who suffer from internet addictions is groundbreaking as it makes clear neuroimaging links between internet addiction and other addictions such as alcohol, cocaine and cannabis amongst others. ‘We are finally been told what clinicians suspected for some time now, that white matter abnormalities in the orbito-frontal cortex and other truly significant brain areas are present not only in addictions where substances are involved but also in behavioural ones such as internet addiction. ‘ Currently, internet addiction is officially classified as an ‘mpulse control disorder' rather than a ‘genuine' addiction.Further studies with larger numbers of subjects would be needed before consideration could be given to reclassifying it, said Dr Bowden-Jones. She added: ‘It is.. possible to consider this study as one of the seminal papers in determining how future generations of clinicians will view internet addiction. ‘ Read more:  ht tp://www. dailymail. co. uk/sciencetech/article-2085369/Internet-addiction-cause-physical-damage-brain-just-like-drugs-say-researchers. html#ixzz2QdsZxeo0   Follow us:  @MailOnline on Twitter  |  DailyMail on Facebook

Psychoanalysis of Iago Essay

In William Shakespeare’s play, Othello, the character Iago lacks a superego which allowed his id to run free and this caused him to lack any form of sympathy and to become a sociopath. This led to him hurting everyone he could and to his eventual downfall. He also tried to justify his actions throughout the play to reinforce his righteous ego. First to understand Iago and his actions we must look at what the id, ego, and superego actually are. According to Freud these are different divisions that make up your mind. The id is the primitive side of your mind. Its only purpose is to seek out and obtain pleasure. The id will do anything it has to obtain it goals no matter how amoral or dangerous its actions may seem. Freud states that the superego is the complete opposite of the id. The superego’s goal is to apply moral values to obtain one’s wishes. The superego imposes guilt, shame, self-doubt, and anxiety to control one’s actions. The ego is the section of your mind you are most aware of. The ego’s goal is to compromise between the two other sections by using logic. It tries to satisfy both the id and the superego. Sometimes the ego becomes overwhelmed and to protect itself it must deploys defense mechanisms. This relates to Iago because he lacks a superego which tells him right from wrong. Since his superego is no longer functioning the ego does not have to compromise between the two sides. However his ego is not useless it still has a purpose. It uses logic to get what his id wants that’s why Iago always has a plan to obtain what he desires and it also justifies his actions. His ego also justifies his actions so he can live with himself. Therefore Iago’s id and ego are operating as they should and it is his superego that is absent. Without a superego and left with his id in control, Iago has all of the traits of a sociopath according to the American Psychiatric Association’s diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. The first trait that Iago has in common with a sociopath is deception. Iago constantly lies throughout the novel to just about everyone he meets. One example of this is when he is speaking with Montano and he says, â€Å"Tis evenmore the prolongue to his sleep. He’ll watch the horologe a double set If drink rock not his cradle.†(Othello II, III, 89). In this quote Othello is trying to spread a  rumor about Cassios’s drinking problem. Except Cassio does not have one. Iago is trying to ruin Cassio’s reputation. This example also leads to another trait of Iago’s which is his conning and manipulation. Like deception Iago uses manipulation throughout the play. For example Iago is talking to Roderigo and he says, â€Å"Thou art sure of me. Go, make money. I have told tee often, and I re-tell thee again and again, I hate the Moor. My cause is hearted. Thine hath no less reason.†(Othello I, III, 53). In this quote he is trying to convince Roderigo that he into giving him all of his money because they share the same cause. However Iago is just trying to use Roderigo to obtain money. The final trait Iago has is that he lacks empathy and he lacks remorse. I excellent example of this is when Iago’s wife, Emilia, is about to illuminate Iago’s plan to ruin Othello. Iago stabbed Emilia, his wife, before she could elaborate and later on she died from her wounds. Iago felt no remorse for the death of his wife and showed no empathy towards her when he stabbed her. Sociopaths are very capable of self – control. Like Iago they use logic to take calculated risks and to blend in with society. Iago does this throughout the novel which is why he was known as honest Iago because he blended in so well that no one suspected that he was committing any amoral acts. Most of Iago’s actions throughout the novel can be associated with calculation, deception, Manipulation, and lack of empathy and remorse. These are the traits of a sociopath therefore Iago can be considered a sociopath. Iago’s traits and actions would cause most people to become guilt ridden even without a superego. However Iago does not because his ego deploys a defense mechanism. This mechanism is called rationalization. Iago makes up excuses and justifications for his actions. For example the whole point of him trying to make Othello jealous was to get Cassio fired. He felt that he was more deserving of Cassio’s position however once he has the position he continues to try to ruin Othello’s life. He also justified his actions against Othello by telling himself that Othello slept with his wife however this was just a rumor and was never proven. He justifications is how he is able to able to live with the things he had done. The plot of this entire novel is based on Iago’s sociopathic traits. Without any of these traits the plot of this novel would dramatically change. Iago is a direct cause for  most of the events in the novel such as Othello becoming suspicious of Desdemona or the deaths of some of the characters. Without these traits Iago would no longer act like a sociopath and therefore he would no longer be the antagonist. The character Iago is very much a sociopath. He lacks sympathy for others and will take advantage of them given the chance. His lack of a superego accounts for this because his id is allowed to run free without any restrictions. This leaves his ego to justify his actions and to make calculated decisions to satisfy the id without getting caught. However his id’s desires eventually lead to his and everyone else’s downfall.

International Economics - Outsourcing Research Paper

International Economics - Outsourcing - Research Paper Example The aim of offshore outsourcing is the transfer of services or goods between nations. Across, outsourcing has matured or grown and become an increasingly complex means of carrying out public services. The private sector has not been left behind in the practice of outsourcing. The origin of outsourcing is linked with the crude materialization of the 1980s when majority of the large-scale public segment outsourcing projects started to take place. In the 1980s, outsourcing occurred generally in the form of blue-collar tasks such as waste collection and grounds maintenance. Much emphasis was put on the lowest cost provider, and this is the individual who won the contract. In the United States, the off-shoring trend in the service sector became significantly prominent in the late 1990s. Between the year 1997 and 2000, various public services including the white-collar roles were exposed to serious competition. The notion of competition became dictated by the best value rather than just th e lowest cost. Best value is an equation, which includes both cost and service quality. It is worth noting that outsourcing was initially viewed as a way of reducing cost, passing clerical and low-level consumer contact duties to other businesses or nations. This happened at a time when industries had to go overseas to cater for the IT labor shortage caused by the excessive workload experienced in 2000, and the dot-com economy boom. This was enabled by advances in IT and influenced by the large cost savings, and thus, companies continued to offshore labor demanding IT services like low level coding and legacy software maintenance. At the moment, complex IT tasks such as XML, software management, software design, web applications development, and software architecture are going offshore. Additionally, an increasing number of United States companies are shifting their IT enabled business services (also referred to as Business Process Outsourcing) abroad. Insurance firms, credit card c ompanies, utility providers, airlines, mortgage lenders, and banks are among the companies that offshore outsource business practices such as low level processing, telemarketing, accounting, procurement, help desks, human resources, collections, customer call centers, and data entry. It is worth noting that concerns about job security had grown â€Å"due in part to increased global economic integration since the early 2000s, when off-shoring started spreading from the jobs of blue-collar manufacturing workers to those of white-collar service sector workers†. White-collar workers entail the majority of United States workers and most of them are employed in the service sector, which accounts for a major portion of United States jobs. This indicates that many people believe that their jobs are at a risk of being moved overseas if the organizations that they work for opt to offshore some of their services or activities. The Current Status of Outsourcing Along With Its Trends A ne w trend is emerging in the service industry; the increase in offshore outsourcing. Prior to the previous decade, it was not common for developing nations like India or China to export high-skilled or high-valued services. Researchers have offered several reasons for

Adopting Native American Names - Abandoning Redskins Research Paper

Adopting Native American Names - Abandoning Redskins - Research Paper Example Controversial cases of adoptions of Native American symbols and names for the emblems, mascots, and names of sports’ teams are the ‘Chief Wahoo’ mascot, supporters’ ceremony named the ‘Tomahawk Chop’, the professional basketball team Atlanta ‘Braves’, and possibly the most notorious of all, the name of professional football team—Washington ‘Redskins’ (Yiannakis & Melnick 204).Native Americans and other groups have been demanding to eradicate this tradition as they regard it to be disrespectful, insulting, and racially prejudiced. This paper argues that racial stereotyping as such, whether ‘good’ or ‘bad’, is damaging, and condemns the notion that such team names like ‘Redskins’ value Native Americans. Therefore, this paper argues that the Washington, D.C. professional football team should change its name/mascot in response to recent criticism. Colman McCarthy of the Washington Post argues that â€Å"’Redskins’ is a slur name that smells with the stench of racism† (Yiannakis & Melnick 204). Almost all of the new supporters of the team are not aware of the historical framework of the team’s racial prejudice. The ‘Redskins’, not once acclaimed for broad-minded race dealings, were the last team in the National Football League to accept African American athletes and were only forced to do so by the 1957 Stadium Act (Stapleton 15). The way racial minority groups call themselves—for instance, ‘Native American’, ‘black’, or ‘Negro’—is very important for those belonging to these groups. The way other people see them not merely works as a proof of the nature of intergroup relationships or affairs, but can actually be a critical, momentous issue. Racial insults, whether caused by deep-seated hatreds or of thoughtless stereotypes, breed hard feelings or enmity and usually deteriorate into violence or aggression (Stapleton 38). In an effort to show higher cultural respect, several academies, such as Stanford, Miami of Ohio, and Eastern Michigan, have given up their old Native American-based team labels. In numerous cases, opponents have criticized these movements as confirmation that political correctness is going berserk on universities (King 29).

State Coordinating Boards and accountability measures Essay

State Coordinating Boards and accountability measures - Essay Example In order to enhance competitiveness in the international marketplace, Governments are increasingly focusing on the need to improve the quality of human capital that is the product of higher educational institutions. Therefore, there is an accountability that is being demanded of these organizations, through the use of external evaluation and performance measures to assess the quality of the education that is being imparted and the effectiveness of policy outcomes. These moves are posing a threat to academic freedom, which gives an individual the right to â€Å"study and teach whatever he or she wants to without threat of sanction† [Tierney, 1998, pp 41], even if this course of study may be such that it does not contribute to maximizing economic returns for the public dollars that have been funneled into education. Educational institutions have traditionally functioned with autonomy because that makes them more â€Å"flexible and responsive, given their relative freedom from command and control by centralized Government†¦..[The result] is higher levels of organizational innovation and more variety within national systems of higher education† [Dee, Henkin and Chen, 2000, p 204]. However, increasing economic pressures leading to the corporatization of higher education are impinging upon the autonomy of educational institutions [Bok, 2003] and pose a serious threat to the achievement of true academic goals [Kirp, 2003]. The conflict between maintaining academic autonomy while simultaneously persevering policy accountability is an ongoing one, in which State Coordinating Boards are faced with the greatest difficulties in defining their role and achieving the right balance between autonomy and accountability.

Organization Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Organization - Research Paper Example The companies selected for analysis are IBM (manufacturing company. Following Reed (2001): â€Å"Motivation must be understood not as a series of separate "needs" but as the dynamic aspect of the very functioning of a living organism. In other words, any living organism is, in effect, a pattern of intrinsically active and directed relational functioning† (p. 60). These meanings may be expressed in organization writings, thought, or language management, and social context, an organization sustains its own cultural system of symbols and meanings that can be widely shared by organizational members. the main difference between content’ and ‘process’ theories of motivation. is that the latter determines motivation as a cognitive rational process while the former sees motivation as needs satisfaction process. Motivation is the main factors which helps companies to attract and retain top talents. The task of the HR manager is to envision these threats in advance, so he will be able to avoid them, or at least minimize their negati ve impact upon well-being. Although managers do not find it a comfortable activity to dwell on unpleasant events, the future survival of organizations and society, itself, mandates that we try to anticipate worst-case scenarios and develop creative methods to manage them. Motivation programs should be effective and management policies should ensure success and positive outcomes. The main methods used by managers will be goal setting method and the leadership. If too much stress is placed on getting the work done, human motivation will suffer. The main strategies applied to the program will be motivation and inspiring employees, cooperation and support initiatives. If all of the emphasis is placed on workers satisfaction, then productivity will suffer. Further, a HR manager can share this expertise with other managers and employees, so that the total organization expands

Stroke Rehabilitation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Stroke Rehabilitation - Essay Example Lack of physical activities, has also been found to affect the recovery process of most patients with strokes. The essay will focus on the importance of activities in the recovery of stroke patients. This will be based on scientific studies that indicate the importance of physical exercises (American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, 2004). The current studies have mentioned that inactivity and sedentary lifestyles to be common in patients with stroke. This has been associated with the physical deconditioning, a situation that many patients in critical conditions cannot be evade. The physical inactivity can be attributed to age differences, especially in many patients who are above the age of 60. It is also common in patients with negative attitudes and perception about the recovery programs. Patients, who believe that they will recover and become independent, are more likely to participate in physical activities. They respond well to the medical treatment. Several researches also find a correlation between motor coordination and the increased sensitivity of the str oke-impaired limbs with exercises. As a physiotherapist, I have been able to discover the importance of physical activities. I have found that patients who are positive and regularly participate in physical exercise are more likely to respond to drugs. The patients are able to improve their self-esteem and are very positive in life. Only a few patients who have been constantly taking part in physical activities that been diagnosed with the co-occurring ailments. Further, none of the case of recurrent of stroke has been reported. On the contrary, I have had about four patients being diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes mellitus due to inactivity. These patients have refused to continue with the physical exercise program I have made. Hence, my interactions with the patients prove that indeed the physical exercises play an imperative role. As such, I advocate for

Germany's Market economy as a Model for Europe Research Paper

Germany's Market economy as a Model for Europe - Research Paper Example However, the long run effects of the treaty might not seem to be as fruitful as expected owing to the divergent ideologies prevailing within the EU member states, where most of nations are argued to follow a neo-conservatism policy unlike Germany (Amable, 2011; Abrahamson, 2010). Even though the leadership performances of Germany has been praised by other EU nations, it has also been criticised on the basis of the recent financial crisis and free trade policies between the US and EU as one of the major constraints to channelize the instability within the member states (Mà ¶ller & Parkes, 2012). Thus, in light of the current economic ideological differences persisting within Germany and other EU member states and also with the US, a question arises that â€Å"Will the negotiated TTIP between the EU and the US impose significant impacts on the international trade affairs of Germany within EU and outside, causing alterations in Germany’s position in the near future of global po litics†. In the current milieu of global politics, effects of the recent economic downturn can be witnessed apparently in the reasons acting behind international treaties. A similar aspect can be witnessed in relation to the proposed TTIP treaty promoting free trade between EU member states and the US. In the aftermath of the global financial crisis of 2008, both the US nation and the member states of EU had been facing inevitable disruptions in terms of economic stability and growth. As was apparently noted, the GDP rates in all over EU countries were dipping rapidly creating a strong negative influence on its monetary policies. The effects of financial crisis 2008 were apparent in the EU housing market and also in its stock market which indicated a steeply declining growth rate [refer to figure 1 and 2] (European Commission, 2009). Evidently, the performance of almost every sector in the EU member states began dipping,

Debate Topic Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Debate Topic - Research Paper Example Many developing countries had not covered medicines and pharmaceutical products, because of its disadvantages to generic drug research and production. Multinational Corporations (MNCs) should manufacture cheap generic life saving drugs for poor countries or give up their patents to others who want to make generic drugs, because it will save millions of lives, allow development of generic and patent-less drugs, and breed innovation. The poor have the right to free or cheaper generic drugs and MNCs should not hinder them from getting the pharmaceutical products they need. The pros of cheap generic life saving drugs or giving up drug patents are: 1) Millions of lives are saved, 2) Other drug companies can develop cheaper drugs or patent-less drugs that will benefit the public, and 3) Large companies will benefit from innovation, because they will no longer have to depend on their blockbuster products for revenues, and instead, they will be pushed to develop generic life saving drugs. Bo seley reports about Glaxo which stopped Africans from buying a cheaper version of its AIDS Drugs. It is an inhumane act, because South Africa only wants to do something right- to help its own people, which large drug MNCs are not looking after.

Place and Memory Essay Example for Free

Place and Memory Essay Perhaps the strongest case for memory is made in the context of the places we occupy. It is not easy to forget what happens in our lives with reference to the space we occupy. In other words, we remember our experiences, especially the most important ones, with reference to the places we occupied at the time of those experiences. Elizabeth Liebert (2004) has written: â€Å"Novelist Barbara Kingsolver loves the places where she writes. She observes: ‘Whether we are leaving it or coming into it, its here that matters, it is place. Our greatest and smallest explanations of ourselves grow from place, as surely as carrots grow in the dirt. ’† According to the author, we learn about ourselves with references to the memories we have about certain places. If I happen to find something I dislike or disagree with in a particular place, for instance, I will be reminded of my sure likes and dislikes whenever I hark back to my specific experience of disliking or disagreeing with something in that particular place. In fact, I had an important experience in Aruba that would explain this phenomenon. I paid a twenty-day visit to the island of Aruba when I was fifteen years of age. Three of my older cousins accompanied me to the gorgeous 32 km long island in the Caribbean Sea. The weather was warm and sunny. The landscape: cactus-strewn. Aruba offers tourists natural, historical and cultural attractions they would not find elsewhere. Still, I find myself repressing my memories of Aruba whenever they occur. My cousins and I visited many places in Aruba by ourselves. These interesting places included the Alto Vista Chapel; the Arikok National Park; Bushiribana Balashi (historical gold mines); the California Lighthouse; and the Palm and Eagle Beaches. Although we made very short visits to these wonderful places, we felt very fortunate to be there. A week before we were suppose to return home from Aruba, my cousins and I decided to take a tour bus to the Ayo Rock Formations that have been described as the town of Bedrock in The Flinstones. We had learned about the puzzling geological formations in Aruba, and about the Ayo Rock Formations we were particularly excited because we all had read in our travel guide that this place was once a dwelling place of an ancient race that left petroglyph markings on stone boulders. And, the area is surrounded by huge stones that seem as though they had been stacked on top of each other by giants! On our way to the Ayo Rock Formations, however, a rather unfortunate incident occurred. Our bus had stopped at the red signal on an empty road when a motorbike came very close to our vehicle, as if out of nowhere. There was a young girl sitting in front of the man riding the motorbike. She yelled at the top of her voice: â€Å"Help! Rape! † That is all I remember hearing at the time. I was nervously moving in my seat on the bus, only trying to understand what had just taken place, when our tour guide stepped off the bus to confront the man on the motorcycle. I had actually not seen him getting off the bus. I only gathered that he had left our bus when I saw him being stabbed in his shoulder by the man on the motorbike! The next thing I knew was that the driver of my tourist bus drove off in a rush, leaving the tour guide behind. Many tourists on my bus questioned him anxiously as he drove the bus at top speed. But the man refused to say why he had done what he did. Of course, there were many complaints to the authorities later on. All the same, we could not undo the act of the driver, or the man on the motorbike who had stabbed the tour guide before my eyes. I have never returned to Aruba, and I believe that I never will. Several of my friends have tried planning out a trip to Aruba with me, knowing that I have been there before and may be able to guide them. I do not think I would be able to guide them, however. I do know that that place and experience taught me that I love justice and refuse to empathize with those who do not submit to it, such as the bus driver, who left the tour guide in the lurch, or the man who stabbed our tour guide in the shoulder. I have often told my friends that I hate Aruba. Today I question myself: Do I really hate the place that has made me understand that I love justice?

Fast food restaurant Essay Example for Free

Fast food restaurant Essay A fast food restaurant is on every corner, but is actually good for you? Fast food became popular in the early 1900’s but it didn’t just take off. Fast food has made quite a journey in its development opening opportunities along the way. It has its advantages and disadvantages but being aware of them is very important. Fast food has made a huge impact on our nation’s health and economy. How was fast food developed? Burgers made at fairs, carnivals, and events were known as low quality. It took America a while to warm up to the idea of fast food. Many people mistakenly assume McDonalds was the first fast food chain but it was not. In the 18th century the convenience of eating away from home was becoming popular. As a result, White Castle was the first chain beginning in Wichita, Kansas. To make the idea of eating away from home more appealing they built their restaurants to show the customers the food being prepared. White Castle’s reputation for well-cooked burgers spread nationwide, making it easier for other fast food restaurants to move in. The McDonald brothers opened their redesigned restaurant in 1948. Soon after, Taco Bell and Burger King opened in the 1950’s and Wendy’s in 1969. Even though McDonalds is the name of fast food it has made a bad reputation in other countries because of its exaggerated marketing to children and unhealthy ingredients. Obviously, it took time for the United States to begin trusting fast food. Fast food can be hurtful to our bodies and the environment. The effects impact both children and adults. Within the food, the lack of some nutrients like Vitamin B and Omega 3 Fatty-Acids causes a person to become unhappy. This unhappiness leads to further problems like depression. Another major problem is the fatty foods sold in fast food restaurants cause a higher risk for Alzheimer’s. In 2009 the University of Berkley did a study that stated that the closer you live to fast food the higher the risk of problems with obesity. Obesity has swept this nation strongly and is one of the most impactful health problems today. Fast foods campaign directly towards children and tempt them with toys and playgrounds. Children obesity rate has tripled in the last 30 years alone as a result. Fast food has also contributed to our planet in a negative way. Livestrong. com states â€Å"To make 1 lb. of hamburger, for example, it takes 16 lbs. of grains and up to 2,500 gallons of water. † The New Community Project says if the people of the world ate more plant-based food we would be able to give food and clean water to the people who don’t have access now. Eating fast food often can be hurtful towards the body and the environment. After many complaints, the fast food industry is finally addressing the health problems. In 1965, the first Subway store was opened with its original title Pete’s Subway. Subway has addressed the issues of unhealthy living with their new spokesperson Jared Fogle who lost 245 lbs. after eating subway for a year. He began being shown in commercials and ads telling people his story. Subway then started adding the amount of calories in specific ingredients to the menu. They also started a new list to the menu called Fresh Fit that includes healthy options for every meal. Many fast food chains caught on to this idea and started showing healthier options and adding calorie counts to their menus. The fast food industry has only begun creating a healthier lifestyle option for people. The fast food industry hit this nation by storm. It has its advantages but do they outweigh the consequences? People of this nation need to watch how much fast food one consumes. Fast food can be good or bad, it all depends on what people choose. Cites Disadvantages of Fast Foods. LIVESTRONG. COM. N. p. , n. d. Web. 12 Sept. 2013. How Fast Food Works. HowStuffWorks. N. p. , n. d. Web. 12 Sept. 2013. Ashley Bruce 9/12/13