Consumer research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Consumer research - Essay Example The researcher has found that body knowledge regarding â€Å"Confusion in Marketing† or consumer confusion regarding marketing practices has been developed in the past 30 years or more. At this point, it would be rational to think that researchers from various background and time periods have conducted research on various aspects of the topic in last 30 years. In such background, the researcher has selected two academic articles addressing two different dimensions of the topic â€Å"Confusion in Marketing† and in the next section, the essay will identify, label, compare, analyze and reflect upon methodological choices in the two academic articles in terms of design of the research, data collection method, sampling and data collection, ethical aspects of the research, criteriology issues, problems or complications regarding the research etc. Articles in Discussion In the last 20 years, the world has become more globalized; consumerism has reached its pick, technological integration has revolutionized the concept of marketing promotion, evolution of interactive social media marketing took place and many other divergent occurrences happened. Same argument holds true for the research works of academic scholars regarding the topic â€Å"Confusion in Marketing†. ... In case of Balabanis & Craven’s (1997) academic article titled as â€Å"Consumer Confusion from Own Brand Lookalikes: An Exploratory Investigation†, the research objective was to understand how lookalikes from other brands or products having similar packaging, design and graphics as of leading brands creating confusion among customers. In case of Srivastava’s (2011) academic article titled as â€Å"Understanding brand identity confusion†, research objective was â€Å"to unveil the consumer perception about Cinthol (Indian bathing soap brand) and to understand the importance of brand identity of a product and the factors influencing it† (Srivastava, 2011, p. 340). To define consumer confusion regarding lookalike, Balabanis & Craven (1997) identified five different factors may that may invoke brand confusion among customers. However, previous researchers such as Foxman, Muehling & Berger (1990) and Foxman, Berger & Cote (1992) also identified similar kind of factors that may create confusion among customers regarding marketing practices of different marketers. Namely, five factors that can invoke marketing confusion are reason behind purchase, physical state of customers, physical environs or geographical position of the purchase, previous brand experience and temporal environment or time constraints. The academic article of Balabanis & Craven (1997) also considered the cognitive biasness model of Zaichkowsky (1985) and lack of consumer knowledge Sirdeshmukh & Unnava (1992) while understanding the source of consumer confusion regarding lookalikes. As research findings, academic article of Balabanis & Craven (1997) found that consumer confusion to lookalikes were only limited

Homosexuality and Sullivan Essay Example for Free

Homosexuality and Sullivan Essay There is much controversy on the rights of same sex marriage ranging from religious viewpoints to the rights as individuals being able to obtain the same rights as heterosexual couples. In the essay â€Å"My Big Fat Straight Wedding† written by Andrew Sullivan, he asks his audience to see the option of gay marriage through the eyes of each person’s own individuality. In his essay, his language, tone, and arguments seem to speak to a specific audience letting them know change is coming and naturally as it should. He gives examples of his own same sex marriage in California and how it made him feel as an individual. Sullivan’s main point was to prove as individuals we all should have the right to marry whom we want and eventually same sex marriages will be understood and accepted. Starting with the tone of the essay you get a feeling as if Sullivan is speaking to you in a conversation, asking his audience a question. Andrew Sullivan’s first line in the essay sets the tone for the language he uses throughout the text â€Å"What if gays were straight? †(102) Sullivan challenges the reader to find absurdity in even the thought of it. Reading that line alone, I could tell that Sullivan was pro for gay marriage. The tone of the essay comes across as though it is a crime to not think of gay marriage as an individual right. There are many places were homosexuality is still uncommon and it is clear the author might be writing to a younger audience in a more diverse area. Sullivan jumps back and forth through the essay with different attitudes in his text. He provides a passage from a California ruling and then asks his audience a serious question. He sets a tone for his readers to question the government and its laws, providing evidence that the laws easily contradict itself. He then uses examples from reality television show, telling his audience that suggesting homosexuals are now more accepted because they are on T. V. How are readers supposed to take the essay serious if references to MTV’s Real World as made as evidence? What about all the small towns in America who don’t have a monthly television subscription to MTV? If Sullivan wants to the readers to question the definition of individuality and how we use the term, he definitely challenges the reader to think. The definition of ndividual alone shows contradictions in civil right laws and constitutional rights we have as Americans. In some parts of his essay does not seem serious or sincere rather seems as if his readers should know what is wrong. He mocks the laws for not giving homosexuals their own right or individuality and the essay comes off less informative and more sarcastic. Homosexuality may be normal in some states of America but he speaks to his audience as if it is accepted everywhere even though gay marriage is only legal in nine out of fifty states in the United States. Sullivan sets up a whole war of counter arguments in his tone alone, because gay marriage is still not legal everywhere in America and he makes light of the issues still at hand. While reading the essay, there seem were to questions that weren’t fully answered. Sullivan sets up a good argument through his own personal experience of marriage and the sense of comfort he found when he experienced it. There is no better argument than personal experience because no one can argue with someone’s own experience. I found his experience of marriage very sincere because if one has a sense of family you can relate on the emotions you may feel with them. Sullivan touches his audience with the relation of family and the good or bad emotions you can feel when you’re with them. He makes the reader feel empathic towards his wedding, allowing them to stand in his shoes and experience the joy you feel when you are getting married. Although the gay culture is accepted in some parts of the United States it does not answer for all the other places in the United States where it is still uncommon. Just because gay culture is now shown on television, or there are now gay soldiers it does not answer the one question he asks which is â€Å"Why don’t gay people have their own individual rights to get married? † In providing fun pop culture facts he can relate to a younger more diverse audience but it does not change the fact that marriage is not legal. He also goes on in the essay saying that the gay culture is more common in this era and suggests more people are coming out at younger ages. This reference brings out a counter argument. What about all the areas in the United States and around the world where people cannot come out because it is not accepted where they live? It contradicts his whole argument that our country is going in the right moral direction of accepting gay relationships. Are we being racist or is being gay morally wrong? Sullivan leaves his essay open for a lot of counter arguments because his essay suggests that although gay marriage laws were passed in the state he lives in; but in forty-one other st ates gay couples still cannot wed. His reference at the end of his essay, suggests that it written in the time period gay marriage was legal in California. Same sex marriages were legal in California; 5 months later Prop 8 was passed and gay marriage was illegal again. At this point where same sex marriages are not legal in California anymore, the author comes off as arrogant and too confident in his thought of America changing its thoughts of homosexuality because it marriage is not possible for the gay community in California anymore. The language in Sullivan uses comes off as accessible; it is easily read and understood. The author shows his viewpoint on homosexuality with emotional language pointing out an argument and then calling it â€Å"absurd†. With his use of certain words and phrases you can set a tone and even sense a vibe from the reader that he is emotional about the topic. In one of his arguments he says â€Å"This transformation in understanding happened organically. †(103) he leaves his essay open for argument. Saying the world â€Å"organically† suggests that America is slowly and naturally is starting to understand the gay community. Is understanding the gay community going to happen naturally? And if so why hasn’t it happened yet? The language the author uses shows his emotion towards the topic, which eventually starts asking the reader to choose sides. The essay can start to become more bias and less informative. Sullivan also uses the slang â€Å"gays† and â€Å"straights†. In using the slang his essay might be less appealing to a broader audience, because although Sullivan is gay himself, it may offend people gay or not. The tone, text, and content in which Sullivan provides his audience seems like he may have a target group maybe of college students who live in California and comfortable with the gay culture and passionate about same-sex marriages. He seems although he is just reminding his audience of their rights, as individuals and letting them know that the gay community are supposed to be considered as individuals first. It seems to miss the millions of people that are unaware the unfair injustice homosexuals may face. The essay may not touch a broader audience because still in forty one states same sex marriages is still not legal and reading this essay may just remind them of that and prove his whole essay as a false hope.

Market Environment and Structure of Automobile Industry

Market Environment and Structure of Automobile Industry 1.1. Market Environment The market environment is the combination of actors and forces that affect an organisations capability to operate its operations effectively in order to provide its products and services to its customers. (Jobber 2004) According to Jobber (2004) these forces can be classified into internal or external environment and these will act in accordance with the companys position in the market as shown in appendix A. As this analysis is about the automobile industry and companies operating within this industry are also facing these forces. Some of these factors are explored later on in this report. 1.2. Market Structure Chris Britton (2003) defines market structure as the amount of competition that exists between the rivalry organisations. According to him the market structure can be perfection competition; monopolistic competition; oligopoly; or monopoly depending on the nature of business. As the automobile industry in not mainly dominated by one single firm and in different parts of world there are different market leaders. So, in bigger picture the global automobile industry is having an oligopolistic structure where many player are there to share profit and for competition. 1.3. Brief Profile of Automobile Industry The automotive industry is the industry involved in the design, development, manufacture, marketing, and sale of motor vehicles. According to Datamonitor (2009), more than 40 million cars were sold across the globe which means the market shrunk by 5.3% as compared to 2007. As Europe is biggest consumer of new cars with 42% while Asia-Pacific and America accounts for 32% and 26% respectively (Datamonitor 2009). The plunge in the consumption of new cars is caused by the recent recession and the motor crises which are widely affecting the auto industry. Meanwhile the rising fuel prices and increasing costs of raw material are another great concern for the manufacturer in order to survive in this turbulent atmosphere. Before the global crises the US market which was the biggest consumer of light vehicles was dominated by the big three GM, Chrysler and Ford, while in Europe equal competition was seen among few companies (Ford, Volkswagen, and BMW) and Asian market was mainly dominated by the Toyota. In recent years the Toyota emerged as a big threat for US companies in the international market through its hybrid technology and is giving tough competition. The Tata has launched the world cheapest car Nano in 2009, India is the focus of all major car manufacturers due to its consumption of small cars and it is also described as For small car, India is the centre of the Universe by Alan Mulally, Ford President and CEO (Business Today Sep 2009). 2.0 Looking at Company (Ford) 2.1. Company (Ford Motor ) Profile Ford Motor Company is a globally recognized company based in United States and it operates across the globe in six continents with its four brands (Ford, Mercury, Lincoln and Volvo). It operates primarily through its automotive business and secondarily through its financial services. Its automotive sector consists of manufacture, design, sale service of small vehicles and large trucks, development and spare parts. The financial services are restricted to insurance and vehicle related finance and leasing. According to auto evolution (Dec 2009) ford was the only one to survive among the three US car manufacturers without any aid or government help and not only survived but also pocketed the $1 billion net income in the third quarter of 2009. Ford is known for its innovative design and technology which is gained through its reverse engineering methodology. The chairman of Ford, Bill Ford is following a simple strategy which is, Our vision for the future is simple: We want to build great products, a strong business, and a better world. (Ford.com) 2.2. History of Company (Ford) Ford Motor Company was founded in US state Michigan in 1903 by an automotive pioneer Henry Ford which was first of its kind in the auto industry. The Model T developed in 1908 and resulted in the sales of over 15 million units. By the 1920s it has captured the 50% of the market share. After going into public in 1956, the company has reached the global market with significant success. 3.0 Macroeconomic Analysis of Ford (Pest Analysis) According to Ian Worthington (2003) organisations operates their operations in an economic environment which is shaped by these operational activities. There are number of factors that influence the decisions of a business organisation although these are not under the control of that particular organisation. These factors can be political, social, economical or technological. These factors have the wider influence on the Fords decision making as Ford is also a business organisation which operates through its auto manufacturing operations and financial operations. How these factors influence Fords strategies is discussed below: Political Aspects Ford Motor Company operates in 50 different countries so it has to fulfil the legal and safety requirements in accordance with their rules and regulations. Economic Aspects Social Aspects Technological Aspects 4.0 Micro-Environment Analysis of Ford (Swot Analysis) 4.1. Strengths to Build Upon Strong Engineering and Design Capability The one of the reason behind the success of Ford is its strong design and engineering capabilities. Ford every new depend on the success of its RD projects which are run through 50 engineering and design centre which are located in many countries across the globe. According to Datamonitor (2008) Ford launched Blind Spot Mirror in its cars in order to remove hazards and build the more traffic views for drivers. Ford also introduced the accident-assistance feature in coordination with the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) in order to improve the emergency service in the same year. This shows how technology and innovation matters at Fords in order to remain competitive in the market High Employee Productivity Ford has employed a strong work force that contributes towards the company operations in order to achieve its goals. It has recorded higher revenue per employer ($1.8m) in 2008 as compared to its rivals (GM, Toyota, Honda, and Chrysler) its 3 times more and this simply because of the training and efficiency achieved by its employees. Fords Extensive Dealers The dealer network acquired by Ford is wide spread in all parts of world especially in rural areas represents Ford through its range of products that included Ford, Mercury, Lincoln and Volvo. 4.2. Weaknesses to Overcome Poor Financial Performance Ford didnt perform very well in FY2008 as compared to 2007 and its income statement seen a decline of 15.3% (Table 4 Appendix D) which was widely due to the recession and lower revenues of Jaguar and Land Rover. The Jaguar and Land Rover was sold later that year in order to control companys financial situation and to regain the investors trust. Sluggish Performance of Company The best performing markets of the world for Ford saw a steep decline in 2008. North-America that accounts for almost half of the companys revenue saw downfall of nearly 24% according to Datamonitor (2009), other parts of world saw the same picture. Poor Cash Flows According to Datamonitor (2009) Fords cash flow declined badly endangering companys position at one stage. Although it came out of recession without the US Governments help but it shows ineffective cash management by the company. So, Ford still need to do a lot in order to gain its pre 2007 state. 4.3. Opportunities to Exploit Potential Asian Market Everybody is aware of India and Chinas importance as a developing market for small sized vehicle and it is also mentioned by Fords CEO Alan Mulally in one his interview as For small car, India is the centre of the Universe.(Business Today Sep. 2009) According to Market Watch (2009) in 2008 the Chinese new car market reached $98 billion which grew by 14% which is expected to grow to $155 billion by 2013. On the other hand India is also rising as a strong economy which means consumption of more vehicles. This is a potential opportunity for Fords to capture this part of world through its strong presence in the market and through its high class manufacturing capabilities. Hybrid, Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles The high fuel price increased the demand for fuel efficient vehicles and as everybody is switching to hybrid cars which means next few years are vital for Ford in order to cope the demands of hybrid vehicles. The worldwide demand for hybrid vehicle is 800,000 units in 2009 and is estimated to grow at 4.5 million units by 2013 (Market Watch 2009) In 2012 Ford is expecting to launch in third generation of hybrid vehicles including a plug in version (Ford.com). Also there is significant opportunity to invest in electric and hydrogen vehicles which seems to be next car after the hybrid cars. 4.4. Threats to Overcome Intense Competition Ford is having intense competition from its rivals especially Toyota which is trying to get a grip on US market. Another factor behind this competition is increasing fuel and raw material prices which are giving hard time to keep the production cost low and prices competitive Recession Although economists are saying that the recession is over but actually not for the auto industry as more people are losing jobs, revenues are getting lower and more companies look towards government help in order to survive. Ford was the only company among the big three in US that survived without the bailout but recession did affect its cash flows. 5.0 Porters Five Forces Model for Ford 5.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers The automobile industry has a huge supply market which relies on few car makers to sell their products in order to survive in the competitive market. The key inputs required by the manufacturer are not much differentiated by the other supplier and it shows the little switching costs and wider choice of supply. This shows a little power in the hands of supplier but the only thing strengths the power of supplier is the quality of their products which give them a little edge on car manufacturers but overall, supplier holds moderate powers over their buyers. 5.2. Bargaining Power of Customers Before the recession auto crises the market was dominated by the few players and people were mainly relying on local firms mainly in the US with the choice of few, but as the international firms made their way into the global market (Toyota Honda in US) the customers start getting more choices. People dont often buy a car neither buy them in bulk which shows a little or no power in terms of bargaining and on top the strong brand names in the market even further weakens their power. There is huge potential market for new cars, although there is a little switching cost but consumers are price sensitive and brand conscious too, therefore, this results in reducing their bargaining power. There is another factor affecting their power is polypsony nature of market which means large number of buyers with little power to influence the price. All these factors show a moderate power in hand of customer. 5.3. Threat of New Entrants North-American seems to be the heaven for the big three until the arrival of Honda into US market and saw a plunge into the share of US manufacturers. Although it is still believed that to get entrance into the auto industry needs not only the large amount of capital but also the innovative engineering and technology. Due to this factor it is hard seen that a new player emerged into the market. Recent recession also gives the assurance of no more new arrival in the auto industry for a while. Even it has forced few companies to leave the business and many others to tumble. Therefore, it clearly shows the little or no threat to the existing market. 5.4. Threat of Substitutes Although there is no alternative of having your own ride but due to increasing fuel prices, job losses, and increasing car prices are forcing people to move towards the cheaper transport alternatives. Mainly used cars, public transport and somehow cycles are appearing as potential threat for the auto industry. Although these methods are less convenient but due to the recession customer are getting more and more conscious towards money saving and cutting costs. Overall, it shows the strong threat of substitute at least for time being. 5.5. Competitive Rivalry between Existing Players The auto industry is highly competitive in terms of return on investments and it is considered as an oligopoly market. In the past this competition wasnt exactly about the prices of cars but only to capture more market share through the innovative design and technology. Most of the firms tried to avoid price based competition but now its comes to the survival of business which lead towards the price war between rivals and it also resulted towards the lower profit margins. Even this competition has intensified; firms now offer longer warranties, lower interest rates and better after sale support in order to attract more customers. So, this results as the strong market competition. According to Ebsco (2009) the auto industry is occupied by small number of companies who having a battle of survival. Although there is a little threat of new entrants in the market but the competition among the existing firms is quite intensive. All the other forces are either week or moderate apart from the one (Threat of Substitutes) which can impose danger for a time being. The market has changed its shape due to the recession and many firms including GM is having a tough time and others are having a loss or less profit but there are still opportunities in the market to grow and bounce back. 6.0 Strategies 7.0 Conclusion References http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2009-auto-industry-wrap-up-14948.html#Ford http://www.ford .com business today 6 sep 2009 N Madhavan (Alan Mulally Interview) Auto Sales: Sales and Share of Total Market by Manufacturer, Wall Street Journal Markets Data Center, Nov. 3, 2008 http://bigthreeauto.procon.org/#Chart

Essay --

FAKE IT TO MAKE IT: A FACTITIOUS DISORDER I. There have been people that love attention, and have taken it a little too far and would invent or inflict illnesses on themselves. A. A factitious disorder has been described as a disease in which a person convinces people and themselves that they have a disease, when in reality they do not. 1. Munchausen disorder, one type of factitious disorder, dates back to the 18th century when Baron Karl Friederick Hieronymus von Munchausen would tell entertaining but untrue tales of his past. 2. Some symptoms which have been known to appear in a patient with a factitious disorder are unbelievable, inconsistent, and have a long medical history in different hospitals or clinics. 3. Psychiatric help has been the main treatment offered, but sometimes when the level of the disorder has been harmful to the patient or others, they were hospitalized forcefully. 4. There’s been many symptoms that have are recognized as factitious, and though there are medications that have helped calm patients, the main way that they have help an individual has been with mental help. II. Traces of factitious disorder were seen back in Galen’s time, a famous Roman physician from around 200 AD. A. That is not however, where it was first named a disease, it was given the name Factitious by English physician named Gavin in a book he published in 1842. 1. Gavin wrote the first and most complete description of why people might do this to themselves. a) He listed a total of eight reasons. b) The first seven reasons were malingering because their reasons are to get something that is convenient to them out of it. c) The eighth reason he named was that people do it to get compassion or attention. 2. There are two main... ...y can hurt themselves and their families, they are forced into being hospitalized. 4. If the patient wants to be treated, then it has to come from them, or all the work would be done in vain because the person does not want to admit that they need help. V. A factitious disorder is when a person says that they have a disease, when in reality they do not. A. The two main types of factitious disorder are factitious disorder by proxy, which is when a person inflicts a disease on a person that they care for. B. There is also Munchausen's syndrome, in which a person causes the symptoms on themselves. C. They have physical symptoms like cuts, surgical scars and others. D. They also have mental symptoms, where they have created a sickness that even they, themselves believe. E. The only way to really help a person with a factitious disorder is by offering them mental help.

The Grandmother

A writer's life can be characterized by danger and excitement. Those who pursue their vocation with passion and dedication cannot possibly live a dull life.   A writer’s life is full of danger because he or she will have to go the unconventional route in order to succeed. It is also a life of excitement because the unpredictable effects of the written word can either make a person famous, rich, or dead depending on the content and place where the piece was written.Bozena Mencova is the first major female writer ever produced by present day Czechoslovakia – formerly known as Czech Republic – in the middle of the nineteenth century. And this writer epitomizes the twin attribute of danger and excitement. Her life was fraught with risks because she had the misfortune to be born in a land torn by politics, ideology, and race. Furthermore, she lived in a time when women are considered a distant second to their male counterparts.Yet, her life was also full of exciteme nt. She was able to show that talent rises to the top irregardless of gender and economic status. One of her celebrated works is the story of a grandmother (Babieka) who was torn between love and duty, in which the writer has interwoven her views on social, political, and even religious forces that are shaping her country.BackgroundThe interesting life of Bozena Nemcova did not begin and end in her being a fiction writer. In fact, Nemcova is also a â€Å"†¦poet, journalist, collector and editor of folk narratives; key figure of the Czech National Revival and representative of the national literary canon. And if this was not enough she was one of the first to publicly address the question of women's identity and   their position in society† (Haan, Daskalova, & Loufti, 2006).Bozena Nemcova was born in 1820, almost two hundred years after the Germans defeated the armies of the Czech Republic. The intense â€Å"Germanization† of the populace resulted in the deterior ation of Czech literature and culture. The National Revival that occurred in the 19th century in which Nemcova played a major part was in response to the decline and The Grandmother is one of the major literary works that serves to awaken nationalistic fervor (Iggers, 1995, p. 49).The GrannyThe story of â€Å"The Grandmother† is a well-written piece. It is enjoyable to read because it came from another time and place, with the added bonus that it came from another language. It is always good to read translated works because it gives the reader a window to another culture. In most cases the study of these types of literature results in the realization that there is much in common even between two different people groups, race, culture, and nationalities.This is especially evident when reading the introductory part of the story. Grandmothers in many parts of the world can relate to â€Å"Granny† – of growing old and living alone, their children far away having the ir own families. The dilemma, on whether to live independently or move in with one of the children is also common problem around the globe.The trend continues when Granny began the journey from her ancestral hometown to a â€Å"foreign† land where her daughter now resides with her husband and children. The universality of the story persisted in the longing of the grandchildren to know their grandmother and the same strong emotions were reciprocated by the grandma.Then the story begins to show its unique flavor when Granny began to settle in. After a while, Granny began to notice the difference in language, culture, and manners being demonstrated in the household of Mr. Prosek. It was a clash between the new and the old, between the traditions of the countryside and new rules of modern living. In the story Granny remarked to herself that she hardly recognized her daughter because her idea of her is that of a merry country girl and here she is now, poised, elegant and yet there is something that is missing.This nagging feeling is symbolic of what is going on in the hearts and minds of Czech intellectuals at that time. They were torn between the acknowledged benefits of the cultural and technological exchange with the Germans and at the same time uncomfortable because deep-down the real self is suppressed unable to break free in song and merriment.Religion has always been a friction point and in this case, Nemcova would like the reader to know the inner struggle of the native Czechs when it comes to a seemingly haphazard view of God by their new rulers. In the story Granny always â€Å"cross† herself and wanted her convictions to rub-off on the children and the whole family.In the latter part of the story one gets a huge dose of these types of comparisons. Mencova was able to contrast the differences in culture when he wrote about the pilgrimage to a church in Svatonovice. On the way the children saw what they were deprived of; it is the joy and spi ritual blessing that can be found in going back to their roots which is the intricate traditions of the Holy Roman Catholic Church and the beauty of the countryside with its own unique wisdom and charms.The story of The Grandmother is not only about symbolisms pointing to National Revival of ancient Czech culture, religion and its traditions. It is much more than that. It is also a piece where Nemcova was able to pour his heart out to express ideas and queries not acceptable in society. In one section of the story, Nemcova introduced Victorka to contrast it with the character of the grandmother. Victorka was imprudent and speaks her mind. By doing so she was able to communicate what may have been going through her mind and heart. This is because Nemcova had an unhappy marriage to a man 15 years her senior (Iggers, 1995).ConclusionIn 1620 the Czech army was defeated by the Hapsburg army. This period began the decline of Czech culture and literature. Intense â€Å"Germanization† occurred, the expected result after victors would normally insist that their culture and language is far superior to the vanquished foe. And in most cases, the weakened spirit of the defeated people willingly oblige to the cultural bullying. In the case of the Czech Republic, Craig Craven remarked, â€Å"The Czech language had not died out, but it had retreated to the countryside and the kitchen to become the patois – slang or nonstandard language – of peasants, cooks, and servants† (2006, p. 88).The above-mentioned discussion serves as the backdrop of The Grandmother written as a response to the   Revival; Czech intellectuals doing proactive steps to regain lost ground in terms of culture, literature, and national identity. In these patriotic times Mencova was moving from town to town with his patriot husband and in the process was exposed to the politics and ideologies of the day. Thus, she began to be influenced by a new breed of Czech natives yearning fo r the good old days.This hope of a new and better Czech Republic based on long forgotten ideals is very much evident in the story. As one would recall Granny reacted to the fact that her son-in-law did not speak Czech, only German while her children and grandchildren on the other hand – including the servants in the household – can easily speak her native language. This made Granny uncomfortable and made her to contemplate going back to her quaint little village.She was persuaded to stay and to keep her mind off the things that bothered her, she began to plunge herself to work as some kind of an overseer to the household servants. Then she began noticing other things like the modern technology that made her more uncomfortable. This is also a symbol of the dilemma with regards to accepting the obvious benefits of German influence – especially in technology – while on the other hand rejecting the negative impacts such as the loss of piety especially when it comes to the traditional church.Aside from the nationalistic undertones of the â€Å"Granny† what attracts the reader to an in-depth study of this piece of literature stems from the realization that this is a 19th century work of fiction, written by a woman in a time and place where tremendous odds are stacked against her. And yet she prevailed and showed her countrymen and the whole world that talent and a burning passion for truth is enough to overcome all obstacles.Lacking in formal training and education required for a serious writer, Nemcova was able to compensate with her enormous talent. It is amazing to read a fine work, with such a vivid description of Czech rural lifestyle and the power of her prose to make the characters come alive. It is difficult to go through the story without agreeing to her insights or without wondering if Nemcova was really writing fiction because the dialogue could have easily have been recorded from actual conversations.In this regard Nemc ova should not only be emulated and celebrated as a writer but also as a heroine. She is a shining example for a country that has seen better times. She is also a good role model for all women who struggled to find their place in a male-dominated society. But her story should be retold in places where women are treated as objects and not as human beings. Her life will surely convince them that they can rise above it all if only they can focus on something other than themselves.Works CitedCravens, Craig. Culture and Customs of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Westport, CT:Greenwood Press, 2006.Haan, F., K. Daskalova, & A. Loutfi. A Biographical Dictionary of Women's Movements andFeminism. New York: CEU Press, 2006.Wilson, Neil. Prague. CA: Lonely Planet, 2007.Iggers, Wilma. Women of Prague. Providence, RI: Berghahn Books, 1995.

An Analysis of New York City in Martin Scorsese’s Essay

Among the stellar names in the film directing profession in the world, Martin Scorsese’s is most likely near or at the very top of the list—as bright as the city he has chosen to showcase in most of his career pieces. Using New York City as his backdrop, Scorsese has created landmark films that explore the intricacies of specific human qualities, tightly connected to themes of identity, religion, and psychology. Three of his films—Mean Streets, Taxi Driver, and Life Lessons—bear the distinct signature of an artist with an immediate message, which is clearly influenced by the dynamics of the inimitable lifestyle of New York City. A native of Flushing, New York, Martin Marcantonio Luciano Scorsese started planning his life as a priest—which is not at all surprising, considering his Italian and Catholic upbringing. However, he shifted goals at some point and graduated with a film degree from New York University in 1964, when he was twenty-two. Soon after that he became involved in film productions under the tutelage of several directors and producers, and finally emerged with his first notable feature film, Mean Streets (Brown, 1996). This particular work signaled the birth of Scorsese’s iconic style, which is defined by idiosyncratic characters and their internal struggles, marked by various circumstances exposing violence, racism, and oppression. Religious topics and details are also common in Scorsese’s work, which, in the past, received the ire of staunch religious groups. Scorsese is also known for building the careers or collaborating with specially-chosen actors, such as Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel, and, in recent years, Leonardo DiCaprio. Each of these actors has starred in at least one iconic Scorsese film: De Niro and Keitel in Mean Streets and Taxi Driver, and DiCaprio in The Aviator and Gangs of New York. Common among most of these films is still the appropriation of New York City as the influential setting in playing out each character’s goal and dilemma. Credibility and accuracy in portraying the life inherent in New York City are integral in Scorsese’s work, and the nature of the city as a melting pot of cultures and its reputation for being the end goal of all personal ambition provide more than enough motivation and reason for the many twists and turns that take place in the characters’ minds and on the streets. II. Living the Gangster Life: The Italian Identity in Mean Streets One of the most definitive of New York City’s life and color is the presence of a multitude of cultures; this is largely caused by the representation of immigrants from all over the world, who have brought with them the distinct traditions and values of their countries of origin. The Italian community is mainly known for its influence on New York City cuisine, religion, and, as historically documented, organized crime in the form of the Mafia. Mean Streets is inherently Italian in identity, as it is set in New York’s Little Italy in the early 1970s—the territory and environment of most known Mafia-gangster groups. The portrayals of Charlie and his friend Johnny Boy—Keitel and De Niro, respectively—are excellent examples of life within the gangster reality, of non-negotiable orders, surprises and sudden decisions, the possibility of assault and instant death. This kind of life, however, is not always chosen by those who find themselves in it; Charlie, for one, lives by the dictates of family and religion, and refuses to take a stand on anything—even if he is plagued by his own guilt. Johnny Boy, on the other hand, is the quintessential gangster, the product of family legacy and history and his pleasure in romanticizing violence and aggression. These two personas reveal some of the most prevalent yet opposing attitudes regarding life in New York City—the struggle to accept a predetermined career, and the assertion of identity based on others’ experience. New York City is indeed a complex mixture of culture and identity, and these are often appropriated by those who desire to make their voices heard in the din of success, failure, and everything else in between. Religion, ethnicity, family, and other inherent traits that contribute to create an identity that can set one apart from the faceless rest are apparent means for survival, which is essential in the midst of such an unforgiving address. III. Left Alone and Unnoticed: Idealism, Racism, and Violence in Taxi Driver De Niro’s portrayal of Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver symbolizes the outcome of a person left to survive on his own in the complicated maze that is New York City in the mid-1970s. What begins as a man with fervent dreams of success and fulfillment in the capital of realized wishes can end in cynicism, hopelessness, and despair. Idealism sets the pace for the ultimate acts of violence and racism, played out by succeeding episodes of rejection and perceived injustice—specifically in the context of sex and acceptance. Bickle’s downward spiral into madness is caused by his own set of values, which includes his idealization of women, superiority of race, and self-entitlement coming from the war experience. Finding himself in a world where he is rejected by a woman he admires, where immorality and child prostitution exists, and where blacks are shown to call the shots through violence and extortion, are enough to shape Bickle’s concept of reality and purpose. Ultimately, he decides to take matters into his own hands, in a defining act that finally pronounces his voice and presence. Rejection and disappointment are part of the New York City lifestyle, given the constant struggle and competition naturally occurring within such a lucrative environment. Likewise, the reality of prostitution and other forms of immorality are necessary effects of the ongoing tests of one’s desired fate, since negation and failure will always need a stopgap measure and means for release or revenge. This complicated economy may not always be easy to comprehend, much less seen as one’s way of life; that Bickle is established with traits akin to surreal idealism makes New York City a symbol of both fulfilled dreams and unrealized goals. Bickle’s persona is common among many who have decided to find their success in the city yet is only armed with traditional ideals of morality, justice, and equality. Race is an evident issue, particularly if it figures in the equation of opportunity and chances for success; blacks, to the white Bickle, represents all things he finds wrong in the city. Finding people of a different set of morals is also a trigger for Bickle’s downfall, since he finds himself unable to impose his own ideals on them. New York City is shown here in its element, with the images of political action and objective during the day and graphic evidences of violence and the sex trade at night. These two pictures of the city plainly show that it is not for the weak, nor for the idealistic; what is essential is toughness and open-mindedness in order to understand the nature of New York City as a place where everything can and will happen. IV. The Master and the Servant: Creativity and Political Economy in â€Å"Life Lessons† This installment in the bigger project that is New York Stories is Scorsese’s contribution to the collective efforts made with fellow film icons Francis Ford Coppola and Woody Allen. â€Å"Life Lessons† is a simple story about artist Lionel Dobie, played by Nick Nolte, and his lover/apprentice Paulette, portrayed by Rosanna Arquette, who both engage in the literal and figurative significance of a two-way relationship. Dobie, being a famous abstract artist, imparts his knowledge, skill, and social connections to Paulette, who in turn repays him by serving as his muse and sex partner. Their relationship comes to a turning point when Paulette decides to move on and see other men, which causes Dobie to become insanely jealous. But it is this jealousy that eventually drives him to create his best work, and thus he forces Paulette to stay with him by selling her on the idea that New York City is the only place for an aspiring artist like herself. Evidently, Dobie lives on his negative emotions to survive, and has done exactly the same in his past relationships. In the end, Paulette makes good with her original decision and leaves, and soon Dobie is shown meeting another young female artist whom he convinces to become his new apprentice. This scene is shown with much sexual connotation, leaving the viewer to conclude that Dobie has once more found his muse. Art is never just for art’s sake in New York City; while some of the best minds are indeed residents of the locale, the competitive conditions and social norms that define it are also necessary factors to consider in appraising one’s success. Talent is never just the sole requirement in making it big in New York City, mainly because of the sheer number of individuals of excellent gifts trying to make names for themselves. Thus this brings about the reality and importance of social connection and status; in order to succeed in a place abound with skill and opportunity, one must look beyond the singular benefit of talent and employ all possible elements that can directly or indirectly help realize his or her goal. In this kind of situation, not everyone asked to assist will want to do so without claiming anything back—after all, the brand of opportunity existing in New York City is essentially available whenever and wherever one sees fit to call it forth. Intrinsically, New York City is probably the one significant environment where making and dealing transactions is the name of the game; to participate, one must have something to sell and/or buy. V. Conclusion Martin Scorsese’s depiction of New York City in the three films mentioned is, quite understandably, based on his own perceptions and experiences. These bases, however, are truly authentic and real—enough to convey a significant concept of New York City, as well as its nuances. The appropriation of identity in Mean Streets, idealism in Taxi Driver, and creativity in â€Å"Life Lessons† is truly apt and relevant, considering that these three themes are probably the most prevalent notions that define the city, albeit taken to each theme’s extremes. New York City may result in an assertion of identity or its eventual loss, depending on a person’s chosen path or decisions. It could progress the concept of idealism to its highest degree, particularly when success is met and values are replicated, yet it could also result in the erosion of idealist thinking, if all experiences are negative and disappointing. Lastly, the New York City experience can stimulate one’s creativity, since it is the one of the world’s capitals of art, yet can also diffuse the fire that burns one’s passion, if the right connections and exposure are not met. Nothing can be simply in the middle ground with regard to life in this city, as most things either fulfill or destroy existing beliefs and objectives. New York City is truly an enigma, a place that exists both in the mind and in its physical sense; while these two spaces may not always have the same traits or premises, the fact remains that it is an aspiration, where one should ‘make it’. Scorsese’s attempts at putting together a credible representation of New York City is laudable, but in truth, many more interpretations are still waiting to be conveyed. Such is the meaning of convergence, where anything and everything is possible. References Brown, M. (1996). â€Å"Martin Scorsese†. God Among Directors. Accessed on 10 April 2009 from http://www. godamongdirectors. com/scorsese/index. shtml Scorsese, M. (dir. ) (1989). â€Å"Life Lessons†. New York Stories. Touchstone Pictures (1973). Mean Streets. Taplin-Perry-Scorsese Productions. (1976). Taxi Driver. Bill/Phillips.

Careers in Photography essays

Careers in Photography essays A few years ago, the suggestion of photography as a career would not have been taken seriously. Photography was once considered as only a hobby that could possibly get a person some extra pocket money. Today though, photographers are in demand and respected financially. Photography has become a profession that has a great commercial value. It can be a main source of income, and means to a comfortable life. Photography is both a science and an art. It is about artistic expression, where the camera will replace the pen and paint, or tell a story without the words. Photographers need to have many abilities. The most important ones are things such as visualization, arm-hand steadiness, idea generation, and originality. There are a multitude of fields that a photographer can go into. Some of them require more schooling and are very selective, yet some are broad and require less then others. With all of these fields, a person has a wonderful chance of doing anything they want with a photography degree. Portrait photographers take pictures of individuals or groups of people and often work in their own studios. Some specialize in weddings or school photographs and may work directly on location. Some portrait photographers are business owners who arrange for advertising, schedule appointments, set and adjust equipment, develop and retouch negatives, and mount and frame pictures. Also they purchase supplies, keep records, bill customers, and may hire and train employees. Press photographers or photojournalists supply pictures to the national and local press, magazines, or television. They must be versatile with an ability to photograph all kinds of subjects. They must have journalistic instincts, know what makes good news pictures, be able to write accurate captions, work well with reporters, be quick and often work under difficult conditions. In Commercial photography, a photographer takes pictures of building...

Descriptive Paragraph Essays

Descriptive Paragraph Essays Descriptive Paragraph Paper Descriptive Paragraph Paper Essay Topic: Paragraph As you walk into the room, you get the feel of a happy room where a lot of fun has taken place. If you look tot he right you see a long, antique, dark wood table facing the wall. On the table there are flowers, angels, and other what-onto to give the room a livable feel. Next to that table, there is a corner piece that holds our many trophies. To the next of our trophy table we have a couch, whose color reminds me of dark chocolate. On each side of the couch there Is a Tiffany lamp and behind It there Is a window. The window has beautiful beige drapes with crochet outlining. Next to the couch we have another corner table that displays an antique clock. On the wall next to the table sets a love seat matching the couch. Beside that there Is a lamp table which Is also of the Tiffany collection. Beside that lamp Is an old tattered chair that everyone loves. On that wall there are deer heads and a pretty lighthouse picture tit a matching wreath. Finally, there sits another recliner, a gun cabinet, and a curio cabinet. On the walls hang plaques, pictures, and animals. We also have an entertainment center which holds our television. On that wall there are deer heads and a pretty lighthouse picture with a matching wreath. Finally, there sits another recliner, a gun cabinet, and a curio cabinet. On the walls hang plaques, pictures. And animals. We also have an entertainment center which holds our television.

E-marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

E-marketing - Essay Example To prove my point I will not only discuss the theoretical aspect of it but will also discuss a case study from the tourism industry. E-marketing is not a different subject altogether. It is built on existing marketing theories. It only incorporates the emerging body of e-business, e-commerce and e-marketing in the light of the difference between internet and other Medias. Background The innovation in technology and the ways in which we interact with them has changed dramatically. These days’ people just go to internet to save some time and do shopping online. People these days use internet as social and professional networking. People use internet via web or mobile to spend time and for entertainment where they don’t want to be interrupted by marketing messages. With the onset of e-marketing marketplace actually transform into electronic market space, already inhabited by more than a billion customers. Keeping in view the scale and benefits of it most customers now spen d a good part of their life in virtual world. So contacting customer in this wired up world is the need of the hour. For this particular reason I have selected the marketing tool, promotion, how it is being used in e-marketing. In this ever increasing virtual world customers are using automated tools to find the best fit for their needs. They have this luxury of having access to a variety of options available to them. They can choose whatever product or service best suits their demand. Marketers need to adapt to this new change and analyze demand by consumers for online services and must strive to meet them. In this report I will analyze how this e-marketing has affected the tourism industry especially in reference to promotion. Promotion... These days’ people just go to the internet to save some time and do shopping online. People these days use the internet as social and professional networking. People use the internet via web or mobile to spend time and for entertainment where they don’t want to be interrupted by marketing messages. With the onset of e-marketing marketplace actually transform into electronic market space, already inhabited by more than a billion customers. Keeping in view the scale and benefits of it most customers now spend a good part of their lives in the virtual world. So contacting the customer in this wired up world is the need of the hour. For this particular reason, I have selected the marketing tool, promotion, how it is being used in e-marketing. In this ever increasing virtual world customers are using automated tools to find the best fit for their needs. They have this luxury of having access to a variety of options available to them. They can choose whatever product or service best suits their demand. Marketers need to adapt to this new change and analyze demand by consumers for online services and must strive to meet them. In this report, I will analyze how this e-marketing has affected the tourism industry especially in reference to promotion. Promotion although is one of the founding pillars of every product and service but its importance relevant to tourism industry cannot be denied. Tourism is one industry where it is needed the most.

Making an Aggressive Case for Day Cares Benefits by Sally Kalson Essay

Making an Aggressive Case for Day Cares Benefits by Sally Kalson - Essay Example Belsky creates daycare advantage. While the professor failed to provide emphasis that aggressive children based on the study conducted do not exhibit aggression outside of the normal greater population, some 28 researchers interpreted the same outcomes differently. As one documented result, enhanced progress in language and cognition was observed from children who have obtained significant quality care within four and a half years. In reference to the issue with a deficiency in other aspects of daycare, Campbell argued: â€Å"We can’t regulate the way people behave with kids, but there are things we can regulate in child care, such as training, education, and ratios.† The statistical information shown via the Bureau of Labor Statistics can be met halfway by employers who might as well consider granting flexible schedules for parent workers who seek to attend to their children despite the 30-hour daycare provision (Kalson). Critical Analysis Despite the misrepresentation committed on the part of Belsky, it may be indispensable to note the findings on the degree of perceived aggression alone for monitored investigation of behaviors in variation with time. Kalson’s column must have probed into the professor’s chief point of demonstrating studies confined only to certain aspects for he could have meant necessitating a focus on an area over the rest which does not quite deserve lead priority. The flaw in the columnist’s writing may be detected then on assessing the extent of knowledge drawn on behalf of the professor. Apparently, besides not paying regard to describe an aggressive child more concretely, nothing further is mentioned about Belsky’s justification of the questionable statement. It would have made a more just and impartial article if adequate views are conveyed by or inquired from the party under criticism despite some contradiction via statistical figures. If, however, Kalson intended to deliver Belsky’s results already in the state of their completeness, then her argument would suffice in rationalizing around the findings of other researchers to have the professor’s claim brought to correction.     

Human Resource Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 18

Human Resource Management - Essay Example When contemplating a relocation program such as the current case with JCC, the management needs to ascertain and prioritize the over-arching reasons, as well as likely benefits of moving the targeted business units. It is noteworthy that the planned relocation, though not a financial slam-dunk, is not deleterious when viewed from an economic standpoint (Collie, 1998). In this regard, the projected attrition lies within acceptable bounds and would, therefore, allow for a substantial infusion of fresh talent. Furthermore, the relocation will satisfy the two other major objectives; greater intellectual capital risk minimization and enhanced growth flexibility. Some of the major challenges that the human resource management needs to include the fact that the replacement of old habits at the former headquarters is usually an uncomfortable process. Additionally, it is inextricably connected to the challenges of the new physical setting. Thus, it is paramount to note that the day-to-day moments and actions tend to move into the foreground of the employee’s attention, and this prompts individuals to act on these moments with a conclusive process of resolution (Collie, 1998). This means that the employees must be made aware of the core reasons necessitating the relocation, and the new expectations placed upon them when it comes to the realization of the relocation objectives. By making the employees aware of the relocation process, they can view the relocation as another organizational change aimed at diversifying the organization’s resources with an aim of maximizing the profits. It is only through such a model that the managemen t can ensure that the relocation process does not result in negative repercussions on the employees’ output and productivity ion the new environment. In this regard, the best approach for aligning the

Knowledge management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Knowledge management - Essay Example cess of KM formation involves creation, capture, storage and distribution of knowledge or information, needed for the organization during appropriate times. KMS will aid the leaders in the overall functioning of the organization and will provide them a good back up to all their strategies. Actually, these ‘systems’ by backing up the leaders will optimize their performance and it will directly show in the optimum performance of the employees. So, this paper will analyze this theme of Knowledge Management using the article titled Knowledge Management featured in the magazine, The Economist, and how that it is vital for the employee and organizational success. The article starts off with the words by renowned management guru, Peter Drucker, who in 1980’s itself hypothesized that that Knowledge Management will be a key process in future for the optimum functioning of the organizations. â€Å"The typical business [of the future] will be knowledge-based, an organisation composed largely of specialists who direct and discipline their own performance through feedback from colleagues, customers and headquarters. For this reason it will be what I call an information-based organisation.† (The Economist).So, Knowledge Management will raise the efficiency level of the leaders, aid them in actualizing an optimal organizational environment and thereby will enrich the knowledge and skill of the employees. Focusing on the importance of employees in the process of Knowledge Management, the article opines that the ‘content’ that is developed and stored in the heads and hearts of the employees need to be optimally used for optim izing organizational functioning. The article further states that the effective knowledge of the workers will become valuable assets or properties for the organization. So they need to be further developed and various forms of that knowledge also need to be preserved through technological means. â€Å"They had become properties whose most valuable asset

Human Biology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Human Biology - Essay Example Fixation therefore preserves protoplasm, prevents autolytic changes and bacterial growth (Pawley, 2006, p. 370). After this, tissue sample should undergo dehydration, clearing and embedding. These processes ensure tissue sample is dehydrated or cleared from fixated agents and solidified to provide strong support to tissue blocks to make cutting in thin sections possible (Pawley, 2006, p.370). In bright field light microscopy staining for routine histological examination of tissue sections enhances natural contrast making tissues or cells more visible. Haematoxylin reacts with basophilic components of cells producing bluish tint to dark blue stain, Eosin stains pinkish colour to pink of acidophilic components of cells (Bancroft and Gamble, 2008, p.126). This is a cardiac muscle tissue. Its fibers are joined by intercalated discs, thick plasma membranes, shown as horizontal lines in the picture (DuPree and DuPree, 2007, p.53). The single central nucleus is also visible. This is a central nervous system, particularly a spinal cord formed by nervous tissue. Neurons and neuroglia are remarkable in this image showing the interconnecting cells and their supports (Chiras, 2011, p.78). This is a neuron which contains nucleus in its cell body that is responsible for synthesizing proteins and membranes while the axon conducts electrical impulse while the dendrites collect information (Hollenbeck and Bamburg, 2003). Satellite cells are situated in dorsal root ganglia somewhere in either side of the spinal cord and they enclosed cell bodies containing sensory neurons that are found inside the ganglia (Tiidus, 2008, p.77). Ordinary staining technique could not enhance visibility of the collagen fibres of hyaline cartilage (Amitrano and Tortora, 2012, p.65). Protoplasm and nuclei under intranuclear network are found in this specimen. Giemsa method of

Realm Human as Person Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Realm Human as Person - Essay Example The research will prove that personality is subject to biology and spirituality combined. Accordingly, Christian personalism has a philosophical difference inspired by Blystone nurtures a post-modernist thought. However, it is clear from the research that personalism has not been subject to religion. Blystone attempts to define a common ground for personalism as a philosophy, in an anthropological manner rather than theological terms. The basis of a definition of a spirit is the violence of heroic self-overcoming in the creative act, with founding members who would soon work out in the precise social-economic principles. According to Blystone, there is an on-going dialogue between Christian, Jews and Muslim as long as other interreligious dialogue. Essentially, the practice of these different dialogues needs a further theoretical work into both theological and Jewish-Christian dialogue as well as theologia religionum. Based on religion, humankind is engaged to a wider dialogue of the heart metrics. According to Blystone, studying religion in that context is monumentally and even indispensably important anthropologically. For that reason, religion becomes a human foundation. Bylstone further notes that the religious ethical calling of humankind is to create â€Å"personae and their persons, which creates a community of persons in the systems of personhood 4. In simpler words, the personalism that pervades the document is a transposition of natural law into philosophical anthropology. The transportation marks a renewal within the traditional of natural law itself, hence enabling reasoning about the human person as new key. According to the Blystone, personalism is a perspective that places anthropology at the centre, the human person, considered in his or her entirety in what is unique to the individual human person and the common to the human conditions, which then promotes

Knowledge management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Knowledge management - Essay Example cess of KM formation involves creation, capture, storage and distribution of knowledge or information, needed for the organization during appropriate times. KMS will aid the leaders in the overall functioning of the organization and will provide them a good back up to all their strategies. Actually, these ‘systems’ by backing up the leaders will optimize their performance and it will directly show in the optimum performance of the employees. So, this paper will analyze this theme of Knowledge Management using the article titled Knowledge Management featured in the magazine, The Economist, and how that it is vital for the employee and organizational success. The article starts off with the words by renowned management guru, Peter Drucker, who in 1980’s itself hypothesized that that Knowledge Management will be a key process in future for the optimum functioning of the organizations. â€Å"The typical business [of the future] will be knowledge-based, an organisation composed largely of specialists who direct and discipline their own performance through feedback from colleagues, customers and headquarters. For this reason it will be what I call an information-based organisation.† (The Economist).So, Knowledge Management will raise the efficiency level of the leaders, aid them in actualizing an optimal organizational environment and thereby will enrich the knowledge and skill of the employees. Focusing on the importance of employees in the process of Knowledge Management, the article opines that the ‘content’ that is developed and stored in the heads and hearts of the employees need to be optimally used for optim izing organizational functioning. The article further states that the effective knowledge of the workers will become valuable assets or properties for the organization. So they need to be further developed and various forms of that knowledge also need to be preserved through technological means. â€Å"They had become properties whose most valuable asset

Realm Human as Person Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Realm Human as Person - Essay Example The research will prove that personality is subject to biology and spirituality combined. Accordingly, Christian personalism has a philosophical difference inspired by Blystone nurtures a post-modernist thought. However, it is clear from the research that personalism has not been subject to religion. Blystone attempts to define a common ground for personalism as a philosophy, in an anthropological manner rather than theological terms. The basis of a definition of a spirit is the violence of heroic self-overcoming in the creative act, with founding members who would soon work out in the precise social-economic principles. According to Blystone, there is an on-going dialogue between Christian, Jews and Muslim as long as other interreligious dialogue. Essentially, the practice of these different dialogues needs a further theoretical work into both theological and Jewish-Christian dialogue as well as theologia religionum. Based on religion, humankind is engaged to a wider dialogue of the heart metrics. According to Blystone, studying religion in that context is monumentally and even indispensably important anthropologically. For that reason, religion becomes a human foundation. Bylstone further notes that the religious ethical calling of humankind is to create â€Å"personae and their persons, which creates a community of persons in the systems of personhood 4. In simpler words, the personalism that pervades the document is a transposition of natural law into philosophical anthropology. The transportation marks a renewal within the traditional of natural law itself, hence enabling reasoning about the human person as new key. According to the Blystone, personalism is a perspective that places anthropology at the centre, the human person, considered in his or her entirety in what is unique to the individual human person and the common to the human conditions, which then promotes

Dream Essay Essay Example for Free

Dream Essay Essay Imagine yourself 10 years from now. After spending most of your young life cramped inside of an overpopulated school, you are anxious to begin your dream job, the job that you have been waiting for since grade school. Now, it’s finally yours and no one can take it away from you, no matter how hard they try. Everyone has a dream that they would like to have come true later in life, whether it’s to have their dream job, or to meet their favorite celebrity. My dream in life is to finish school and become a doctor. I want this dream to come true because ever since the doctors at Saint Barnabas hospital saved my mother from dying from birth, my brother from dying from multiple asthma attacks, and my grandma from breast cancer, I knew I wanted to be like them someday, helping to save the lives of young(and old)people. There are multiple steps that I would have to take for me to fulfill my dream of becoming a doctor. The first step to accomplishing my goal is attending an Ivy League School. The best way to be able to attend an Ivy League School is getting admirable grades early. Ivy League Schools most likely won’t admit you to their school if you start doing well in school late in high school. You should also challenge yourself academically. This means taking advanced courses, especially ones that offer college credits. Ivy League Schools prefer students who do well in a challenging course than one that does exceptional in an average one. Although this may be a tedious task, I believe that it’s worth the wait. To accomplish my goal to become a doctor, I will have to be very studious and diligent for me to be able to finish school. When I close my eyes, I can imagine myself 15, 20 years from now, accomplishing my dream of becoming a doctor. After a long day of working as a doctor in my office in California, I finally get to come home to my wonderful husband, 2 kids, 2 dogs, a turtle, a hamster, and a guinea pig. The scene when I get home is different everyday. Sometimes, I come home to the find everything serene and the kids doing homework or the kids watching television with the dogs at their feet. But other times, I come home to total chaos. The kids are fighting for no apparent reason and the house is flipped completely upside down. But, even with the chaos, I love my family and wouldn’t change anything, even if I could. I can already imagine myself taking care of a patient. I’m working in my office when the doctors rush him in, telling me that he’s been in a horrible car accident and is unresponsive. They also tell me that a piece of the metal highway barrier has entered his body and when I look down, I can see it jutting out of the lower section of his thigh. We rush him into an operating room, give him the anesthesia, and start the procedure to remove the jutting highway barrier from the man’s body. After 6 hours, 3 cups of coffee, and a lot of skin and blood lost, we finally removed the piece of metal out of the man’s thigh. After the procedure, I got many accolades from my fellow doctors. Being a doctor demonstrates all of the capricious things that happen in life, but everyday, I revel the fact that I get to live out my dreams. Now that my dream is a reality, I can say that after many years of working hard in school, have accomplished my goal of becoming a doctor. Now, I can probably better understand how tired my mom actually was taking care of two kids and working full time. Working full time and becoming a mother to two kids makes me appreciate my mother even more than I already do. I know how hard she works to take care of me and my little brother and also to be able to pay all bills. Becoming a doctor changed my family’s life because now, instead of them taking care of me, I am old enough to take care of myself, and my family members. I hope that instead of fantasizing about it, I will actually get to live out my dream 15, 20 years from now.

Analysis Of Ted Hughes Poems

Analysis Of Ted Hughes Poems As the title suggests, this poem is about wind and the destructive effects that it has on both the landscape and people that live in a isolated house. The narrator tells us how the inhabitants of the house struggle against a powerful and violent weather. However, in spite of the efforts no human is strong enough to resist the extreme forces of nature. Therefore the relationship between Man and Natures power is the key theme in Wind. 3. MUSIC AND LANGUAGE This house/ has been / far out/ at sea/ all the night Many poems have precise patterns to follow as rhyme and meter. But Hughes doesnt follow any pattern since he wants to create the sense of chaos as the extreme weather does in the poem. Then writing in a free verse he rejects all the conventional poetic rules. Likewise is necessary to take a look to how the rhythm influences the poems meaning. According to this we can see that he uses an iambic pentameter because we can notice five beats in each verse with alternating unaccented and accented syllables. This iambic pentameter creates an intermittent rhythm giving a vitality to the poem that emphasizes the winds features. Also he uses alliterations such as wind wielded blade-light (6) that reminds the blow of the wind and at the same time suggests that the wind could strike at any time. There is more alliteration in the line black back gull bent like an iron bar slowly (16) that conveys a slow reading that reflects in some way the crushing puff of the wind. The poems language is full of words with a particular sound pattern. He uses words wich denote strength to describe the power of the wind such as bang or flung that turns the wind into a frightful and violent nature force, unlike for instance the words quivering and cry used to the peoples description and which give to them a connotation of weakness. 4. STRUCTURE Wind has a linear narrative structure in which each of six stanzas conformed by four lines each one. The structure of the poem seems quite simple, but if we pay attention to the end of the verses we can see that some of them lacks of punctuation. The punctuation is one of the formal aspect that makes easier the understanding of a text, avoiding ambiguous meanings and difficulties to interpret it. Therefore I think that in Wind the poet breaks all the formal conventions starting the lines with capital letter and using the punctuation as he wants in order to emphasize the effects of the wind. He alters the punctuation conventions provoking disorder, confusion and chaos as the wind does in the landscape and people of the poem. 5. IMAGERY AND FIGURES Imagery and figures are remarkable techniques that must be highlighted in this poetry essay. They can be found through the whole poem in order to increase the strength of the wind and they help the reader to imagine every event in a more realistic way. In the first stanza he is speaking about the devastate force of the wind. He uses in this stanza many metaphors and personifications emphasizing the extraordinary power of nature. In the first line of the poem this house has been far out at sea all night (1) we can see the metaphor of the house far out at sea as it was a boat lost in the middle of nowhere struggling against the sea as the house struggles against the wind. The second stanza shows an evident contrast with the first one. After the emphatic use of personification to enhance the power and ruthlessness of the wind , he portrays a still countryside with an orange sky (5). Following with the same line till day rose (5), we can notice that he is giving to the day human attributes once again. The third stanza the poet uses the first person narration. He uses this device to create familiarity in the reader. For instance when it says that he scaled along the house side (9) we can imagine the man facing with nature and we put ourselves in his place feeling empathy for him. In the fourth stanza he portrays the landscape as being fearful of the wind as he says the fields quivering, the skyline a grimace (13) personifying fields and sky in order to emphasize upon the sense of power of the wind. The line The wind flung a magpie away and a black gull bent like an iron bar (15) is another contribution to the sense of power of the wind because it can even fling a magpie away. In the following line he uses a simile to describe the wind strength saying that it can bend a black gull like an iron bar (16). The fifth stanza speaks about the house in terms of weakness describing it as fine green goblet (17) under the fierce wind, while the hearts of inhabitants are gripping and they try to face the elements, but they are so scared that even cannot entertain book, thought or each other (20). The last stanza feel the roots if the house move (22) can have a double meaning, at first glance we can think that the wind is so strong that can even move the house, but also it can be related to the roots of the family, his heritage and tradition. The house that so much effort they employed to build it and where all the family traditions and values were settled. The poem ends with the cry of the stones, meaning that something so strong and almost unbreakable as a stone is also fearful because of the storm. 6. CONCLUSION There is a great control of language and imagery in this poem. Through his masterful use of figures and images clearly related to its theme and structure he gives to the wind the personality of an enormous and powerful beast making this poem a breathtakingly poem. Hughes captures the power of the wind in phrases full of a wild and insatiable energy achieving a great power of expression in every line of the poem.

Dialectical Journals- Things Fall Apart Essay -- essays research paper

Dialectical Journals 1. â€Å"His fame rested on solid personal achievements.† Pg. 3 paragraph 1 All fame begins when you do something noticeable. For example, actors and actresses build upon their careers and reputations by achieving excellence in their personal goals, as well as perfecting their public performance. 2. â€Å"†¦It was said that when he slept, his wives and children in his houses could hear him breathe.† Pg. 4 paragraph 1 One question that comes to mind when I read this is if he alternates between homes on certain days or months. From what I understand, it used to be socially acceptable to have many wives and children, but they all lived together in one home, scattered among different chambers within the house. The use of the word â€Å"homes† is what made me wonder. 3. â€Å"He always said that whenever he saw a dead man’s mouth he saw the folly of not eating what one had in one’s lifetime.† Pg. 4 paragraph 2 I think that what the author was trying to imply in this passage was that in his personal experience, he has noticed that many people take many things for granted and that they don’t live their lives according to what they want and need to do. So much is wasted during one’s lifetime, and people just allow their lives to pass them by. 4. â€Å"As he broke the kola, Unoka prayed to their ancestors for life and health, and for protection against their enemies.† Pg. 6 paragraph 5 The impression that I got was that Okoye just came over on a whim. Is it customary to honor and pray to the ancestors whenever you have company; expected or unexpected? This seems awkward. 5. â€Å"Okoye was also a musician. He played on the ogene. But he was not a failure like Unoka.† Pg. 7 paragraph 6 I can compare this selection to my personal life in both the resent and the past. Even though I have many things in common with my friends, I often feel like a failure in comparison to them, as if they are better than I am at things that we do regularly, much like Unoka in comparison to Okoye. 6. â€Å"A snake was never called by its name at night, because it would hear.† Pg. 9 paragraph 2 The act of fear is much more common in the dark. In the dark, people expect things to be lurking around the bend, waiting for someone to summon it. I can relate this selection to my past experiences with my friends. When we were in elementary school, we would go into a dark bathroom and say the name, ... ...hy, disgusting insects. If the villagers knew what the small, disaster-riddled pests were capable of doing, then they would fear the swarm’s return instead of praising and rejoicing it. 25. â€Å"My daughter’s suitor is coming today.† Pg. 65 paragraph 7 Why is a ten-year-old child getting married? Is the â€Å"man† also ten years old? Why would an adult want to marry someone who hasn’t even reached adolescence yet? It made sense to them to sell their daughters for marriage once they started menstruating, but why would they sell off a child who probably wouldn’t start to do that for up to two years after the marriage. 26. â€Å"You might as well say that the woman lies on top of the man when they are making the children.† Pg. 74 paragraph 3 This shows that in the days of this book, sex was just for making children; not for fun. Now a day, men like sex in a variety of positions. They often like domineering women who are on the top rather than the bottom. I suppose that back then, the men had little respect for the women so they felt that they should be below them. If they were on top during sex, then the men may feel intimidated by the woman’s strength and be disgusted that they have no shame. Dialectical Journals- Things Fall Apart Essay -- essays research paper Dialectical Journals 1. â€Å"His fame rested on solid personal achievements.† Pg. 3 paragraph 1 All fame begins when you do something noticeable. For example, actors and actresses build upon their careers and reputations by achieving excellence in their personal goals, as well as perfecting their public performance. 2. â€Å"†¦It was said that when he slept, his wives and children in his houses could hear him breathe.† Pg. 4 paragraph 1 One question that comes to mind when I read this is if he alternates between homes on certain days or months. From what I understand, it used to be socially acceptable to have many wives and children, but they all lived together in one home, scattered among different chambers within the house. The use of the word â€Å"homes† is what made me wonder. 3. â€Å"He always said that whenever he saw a dead man’s mouth he saw the folly of not eating what one had in one’s lifetime.† Pg. 4 paragraph 2 I think that what the author was trying to imply in this passage was that in his personal experience, he has noticed that many people take many things for granted and that they don’t live their lives according to what they want and need to do. So much is wasted during one’s lifetime, and people just allow their lives to pass them by. 4. â€Å"As he broke the kola, Unoka prayed to their ancestors for life and health, and for protection against their enemies.† Pg. 6 paragraph 5 The impression that I got was that Okoye just came over on a whim. Is it customary to honor and pray to the ancestors whenever you have company; expected or unexpected? This seems awkward. 5. â€Å"Okoye was also a musician. He played on the ogene. But he was not a failure like Unoka.† Pg. 7 paragraph 6 I can compare this selection to my personal life in both the resent and the past. Even though I have many things in common with my friends, I often feel like a failure in comparison to them, as if they are better than I am at things that we do regularly, much like Unoka in comparison to Okoye. 6. â€Å"A snake was never called by its name at night, because it would hear.† Pg. 9 paragraph 2 The act of fear is much more common in the dark. In the dark, people expect things to be lurking around the bend, waiting for someone to summon it. I can relate this selection to my past experiences with my friends. When we were in elementary school, we would go into a dark bathroom and say the name, ... ...hy, disgusting insects. If the villagers knew what the small, disaster-riddled pests were capable of doing, then they would fear the swarm’s return instead of praising and rejoicing it. 25. â€Å"My daughter’s suitor is coming today.† Pg. 65 paragraph 7 Why is a ten-year-old child getting married? Is the â€Å"man† also ten years old? Why would an adult want to marry someone who hasn’t even reached adolescence yet? It made sense to them to sell their daughters for marriage once they started menstruating, but why would they sell off a child who probably wouldn’t start to do that for up to two years after the marriage. 26. â€Å"You might as well say that the woman lies on top of the man when they are making the children.† Pg. 74 paragraph 3 This shows that in the days of this book, sex was just for making children; not for fun. Now a day, men like sex in a variety of positions. They often like domineering women who are on the top rather than the bottom. I suppose that back then, the men had little respect for the women so they felt that they should be below them. If they were on top during sex, then the men may feel intimidated by the woman’s strength and be disgusted that they have no shame.

Baddeley and Hitch’s Working Memory Model Essay -- Neurology Memory

This essay addresses the working memory model which was proposed by Baddeley and Hitch (1974 in Smith & Kosslyn, 2007) as a response to Atkinson and Shiffrins (1968 in Smith, 2007) multi-store model. According to Baddely and Hitch the multi-store model failed to explain most of the complexities of the human memory and viewed it as being too simplistic. They argued that the short term memory store must have more components rather it being a single inflexible store as suggested previously by Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968). The working memory model is therefore an enhancement of the multi store model. According to Baddeley and Hitch working memory is a limited- capacity system that stores and processes information. According to Baddeley and Hitch (1974) what constitutes as working memory can be divided into four distinct components which contribute to the processes of memory. They are the phonological loop, the visual spatial sketchpad, the episodic buffer and the central executive (in Passer, Smith, Holt, Bremner, Vliek, 2009). The primary role of the phonological loop is to store mental representations of auditory information (in Passer, 2009). It has limited capacity and holds information in a speech based form. It is further subdivided into two more components; the articulatory rehearsal system which has a limited capacity of 2 seconds and rehearses information verbally and is linked to speech production and the phonological store which temporarily holds speech based information (in Smith, 2007) Evidence for the existence of the phonological loop comes from Baddeley (1966 in Passer, 2009) They examined the word length effect in which they presented participants with visual presentations of word lists and asked them to write t... ...however issues such as reliability, validity and bias occur when studying brain damaged patients therefore is not always a valid way of studying working memory (in Smith, 2007). In conclusion, Baddeley and Hitch (1974) developed the working memory in response to the multi store model and introduced four mechanisms involved; the phonological loop, visual-spaital sketchpad, episodic buffer and the central executive. The four components are also largely supported by a good wealth of evidence (in Smith, 2007). References Parkin, A. J., (1993). Memory Phenomena , experiment and theory. Blackwell. USA. Passer, M., Smith, R., Holt, N., Bremner, A., Sutherland, E., & Vliek, M. (2009). Psychology; Science of Mind and Behaviour. (European Edition). New York. Smith, E.E., and Kosslyn, S.M. (2007). Cognitive Psychology, Mind and Brain. Massachusetts, US:Pearson Baddeley and Hitch’s Working Memory Model Essay -- Neurology Memory This essay addresses the working memory model which was proposed by Baddeley and Hitch (1974 in Smith & Kosslyn, 2007) as a response to Atkinson and Shiffrins (1968 in Smith, 2007) multi-store model. According to Baddely and Hitch the multi-store model failed to explain most of the complexities of the human memory and viewed it as being too simplistic. They argued that the short term memory store must have more components rather it being a single inflexible store as suggested previously by Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968). The working memory model is therefore an enhancement of the multi store model. According to Baddeley and Hitch working memory is a limited- capacity system that stores and processes information. According to Baddeley and Hitch (1974) what constitutes as working memory can be divided into four distinct components which contribute to the processes of memory. They are the phonological loop, the visual spatial sketchpad, the episodic buffer and the central executive (in Passer, Smith, Holt, Bremner, Vliek, 2009). The primary role of the phonological loop is to store mental representations of auditory information (in Passer, 2009). It has limited capacity and holds information in a speech based form. It is further subdivided into two more components; the articulatory rehearsal system which has a limited capacity of 2 seconds and rehearses information verbally and is linked to speech production and the phonological store which temporarily holds speech based information (in Smith, 2007) Evidence for the existence of the phonological loop comes from Baddeley (1966 in Passer, 2009) They examined the word length effect in which they presented participants with visual presentations of word lists and asked them to write t... ...however issues such as reliability, validity and bias occur when studying brain damaged patients therefore is not always a valid way of studying working memory (in Smith, 2007). In conclusion, Baddeley and Hitch (1974) developed the working memory in response to the multi store model and introduced four mechanisms involved; the phonological loop, visual-spaital sketchpad, episodic buffer and the central executive. The four components are also largely supported by a good wealth of evidence (in Smith, 2007). References Parkin, A. J., (1993). Memory Phenomena , experiment and theory. Blackwell. USA. Passer, M., Smith, R., Holt, N., Bremner, A., Sutherland, E., & Vliek, M. (2009). Psychology; Science of Mind and Behaviour. (European Edition). New York. Smith, E.E., and Kosslyn, S.M. (2007). Cognitive Psychology, Mind and Brain. Massachusetts, US:Pearson

Orbach

Sample descriptive outline and summary Fat is a Feminist Issue by Susie Arroba Descriptive Outline Paragraphs 1 & 2 Paragraphs 3 & 4 Paragraphs 5 -8 Paragraph 9 Us Mary Arroba details the epidemic of obesity in American women, the emotional effects of overeating on women, and lists commonly held views about the causes of obesity. Arroba suggests that women's obesity is in fact a challenge to gender stereotypes and should be viewed as a societal illness, not a personal failing.In this section of the text, Arroba argues that women's inferior societal position is the result of a centuries-long belief that women's biology makes them fit for the limited roles of wife and mother. In order to achieve this status, however, Arroba states that a woman must â€Å"have† a man, which makes her seclusion's and keenly aware of herself as an object for the pleasure of men. A woman therefore is highly susceptible to the vagaries of fashion, media, and make-up in an effort to make her more ascr ibable to men.Arroba concludes by stating that, despite the many changes in fashion trends, being thin is consistently viewed as positive, and necessary, for women, and that, as a result, obesity may express rebellion against the strictures of cue Trial conformity women face. Arroba uses her introductory paragraphs to establish the context of her discussion about women's obesity in the United States. Arroba begins to make her argument, offering a feminist explanation of women's obesity, alleging that â€Å"fat is† n expression of independence.Her parallel structure Caftan is†) suggests ownership of an otherwise unattractive quality – fat itself. Arroba logically and methodically builds her argument in this section of the text, moving from biology to culture, in order to persuade the reader that the epidemic of female obesity may, in fact, be a feminist choice -? rather than the availability of unhealthy food, lack of exercise,

A Look Into The Arts Essay

Art is one aspect of the past that has carried on for decades. Art in any form may it be poetry, novels, and playwright, sculpting as well as painting, has been an outlet for generations and continues to be an outlet and a means for expression. This paper will discuss â€Å" The Mona Lisa† one of Da Vinci’s most famous paintings, as well as another great painting, Antonio Veneziano’s â€Å"Virgin and Child†(c. 1380). Both paintings focus on the human form and exhibit many variations of styles from lines, shading, color and possible meanings behind the work. The first piece of artwork that will be looked is from the Renaissance Era. Da Vinci’s â€Å"Mona Lisa†(c. 1519) a painting that is known around the world, which has been known to cause skepticism as to who is this woman. Did she really exist? Or is this merely a self-portrait that Da Vinci was able to show his private devotion for the female form? The second piece of artwork that will be discussed is from The Middle Ages. Antonio Veneziano’s â€Å"Virgin and Child†(c. 1380) both pieces of art work stem from different eras but share many commonalities as well as shows the transformation of art techniques from Sfumato, to perspective, as well as linear perspective, Humanism, foreshortening and more between each era. In the Early Renaissance Era, artists from Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael Sanzio, Piero della Francesca, Sandro Botticelli and more, developed a passion and ability to create art that could capture a moment may it be a beautiful moment or tragic moment. These artists were also able spark creativity and question in the human mind as to what is or was and why. Much like the middle Ages, art from both eras focused on religious forms, humanism, from the finite details of a lock of hair to the muscle tone. The Renaissance era developed the linear perspective to create; depth and angles in work, though the Middle Ages opened the door for linear perspective to be created. Most depictions from the Middle Ages showed a human form that was stiff and schematic, like a rough draft that was never completed. However art from the Renaissance Era had a profound effect on European art. Lilian H. Zirpolo (SNHU. â€Å"Chapter 8.† 2012 FAS 201, Introduction to Humanities I.) Stated â€Å" The outburst of creativity of the era, resulted in the most influential artistic revolution ever to have taken place.† There was so much depth and thought put into Renaissance art that it was the stepping-stone for all who dared to create. Da Vinci’ s the â€Å"Mona Lisa†(c.1519) holds Miss. Zirpolo’s statement to be true. When viewing the piece, one can see the exquisite line work and Foreshortening, to linear perspective. This art form shows his attention to detail and his passion for his work. The â€Å"Mona Lisa† (c.1519) is a small piece of artwork that became very popular. To this day the â€Å"Mona Lisa†(c.1519) still triumphs over Michelangelo’s â€Å"Creation Of Adam† (c.1511), which became a part of the â€Å"Sistine Chapel.†(C.1512) When one views â€Å"The Mona Lisa† they can see the dark color scale that is used, perhaps to depict an unhappy time. Da Vinci through out this piece is able to use an aerial perspective within the background of this portrait. Da Vinci was the first artist to successfully depict an aerial perspective. Da Vinci also uses Sfumato in his negative space by blending, blurring and softening the landscape, this technique is used to create a gradual transition between areas of different color, avoiding sharp outlines, to which I believe was done as to not take away the focal point in his positive space of the canvas. Another great aspect to the â€Å"Mona Lisa† is that is demonstrates the art of science discoveries that came to fruition in the Renaissance period, which is that they were able to acknowledge how the eye perceives light, thusly how light reacts with colors and how the human eye adapts to the change in color and light. So why is that of any significance in art? Well when one takes a painting such as the â€Å"Mona Lisa† once can see how the color gradation changes to separate the neck and face from her clothing. It creates more of a realistic feel to the art. The Middle Ages on the other hand focused on two-dimensional compositions, their depictions of humans were frail and stiff, and the human art form was inert. (SNHU. â€Å"The Middle Ages.† 2012 FAS 201, Introduction to Humanities I.) Like art from the Renaissance, they also focused a lot on Religion, saint hood and humans. In fact it depicted the importance of humans based on the size they were painted or sc ulpted. It focused on women and God, as the two were of major importance at the time. Woman we scared and givers of life and love, their beauty was unfounded and they were cherished. God was the almighty and the one who created a life form that woman were there to carry on the tradition, so to speak. Is it believed through the Bible and studies that Jesus was born into this world as a miracle from a virgin. So Antonio Veneziano’s â€Å"Virgin and Child†(c. 1380) upholds that belief and leaves room for discussion. In the early times of God and Mary and the birth of Christ it was believed that Immaculate Conception was possible, as pre-martial sex was a sin. So to have depictions of such a scene may make one wonder if it was at all possible at one point in time. This picture depicts a Virgin mother coddling her newborn, both are pictured with a â€Å"halo† above their heads which signifies the importance of their religion and the acceptance of religion into not only their life but into Gods life. As you can see here as well as in the â€Å"Mona Lisa† there is a contrast between light and dark as to separate the two bodies and distinguish the Virgin from the Child. In a personal opinion in the color choice of the Virgin as compared to the Child, I would say that light colors are used for the child because he is born pure and free from sin, where as the Virgin is with sin and thusly wears a dark robe. Art from the middle ages depicts religious events, because it was the basis of life at the time. Most art from that time were done by artists who either choose to or had to be anonymous, they we for the most part two dimensional pieces of art work with a single color background, which when looking at Antonio Veneziano’s â€Å"Virgin and Child†(c. 1380) one can see how this, the background is primarily one color, it has been shaded to show detail in the halo and architect, but holds close to the standard for Middle Aged era art. Though the painting is set fourth to show a natural pose of a mother and child, the line work and attention to detail in the human form lacks. This painting though a well painted, blends the line work of the bodies making the figures seem almost uncomfortable in their poses. The colors used in this painting may foreshadow an unhappier time for the two, as dark colors tend to represent tragic, mournful and displeased events. As one can see the â€Å"Mona Lisa† from the Renaissance and the â€Å"Virgin and Child† from the Middle Ages, share many similarities in terms of their impressions of humans. Both eras focus their art on humanism, religious, two and three – dimensional works of art, the hatching used to create depth and more dimensions. Both the Renaissance and the Middle Ages have very different ways of executing the precision of the human form. The Renaissance paid very close attention to detail, the line work that is depicted in the human form is natural and lifelike, and where as artists from the Middle Ages who painted humans were stiff and motionless. Though both Eras have great works of art, it was the Renaissance that had more of a well-rounded and idealistic way of executing their work, thusly making it one of the better Eras for art. Resources Page: SNHU. † Chapter Seven The Middle Ages.† 2012 FAS 201, Introduction to Humanities I. SNHU. † Module Eight The Renaissance, Reformation and Age of Exploration.† 2012 FAS 201, Introduction to Humanities I.