Valentines Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Valentines - Essay Example Nelly is an athletic and a rugby player in her school. For this reason, she has a buildup body that have developed out of his hobbies. She argues that she required weight to enable her play well and protect herself from other players. Moreover, being athletic make ones develop a lot of muscle out of the many exercises and to cope with the demand of the sport (London, 2015). Nelly says that she was astonished for her date to offer a gift suggesting she cut on weight (London, 2015). She argues that that was the least she expected because she always imagined that her friend like and support her involvement in sports. Nelly says that it was her resilient that made her resist knocking him down and throwing him out of the house (London, 2015). This made her cancel the date and dump his date the following day. Katie Ford is a 33 years business woman (London, 2015). She says that she is always excited to enjoy valentine day with her date. However, on February 14, 2014 she experienced a traumatic encounter after she and her date was booked for being too drunk. That evening they went to buy drink, so they have a romantic night. However, her date started drinking and promised her of so many things he would do for her. Katie though hesitant for the man ego, agreed let him have a chance. However, they did not last long on their romantic date before Katie date got too much drunk and started fighting with strangers for no apparent reason. The commotion led the owner of the restaurant to call the police to calm down Katie date. Nevertheless, the police had no choice, but to arrest the unruly man and booked him overnight until the next day. Katie romantic moment had to end and walk in the dark to her house. She says she had a walk with her high heels alone in the middle of the night because his date was not man enough. She broke up with him the

Determinants, Benefits and the Risks of Foreign Direct Investment for Assignment

Determinants, Benefits and the Risks of Foreign Direct Investment for Developing Countries - Assignment Example It is evidently clear from the discussion that for the host country, it provides new technologies, products, skills of management, capital, strengthens its currency and thus leads to economic development. However, these benefits are not realized automatically and evenly. Architecture of international investment and national policies are important in attracting FDI to many developing countries and in realization of its full benefits for development. Although FDI is beneficial to both host and home countries, it also arise some costs to them. The benefits which a host country expects rely on the co-operation of its government. In developing countries such as Kenya, FDI contributes a lot in their economic development and the governments are working extremely hard to attract it. Actually, the global market for these investments is highly competitive and countries seek them to improve their development efforts. Foreign Direct Investment is regarded to be less prone to a crisis because the direct investors usually have very long-term plans when engaging in such investments in host countries. It is also believed that FDI greatly contributes a lot to the economic growth of a host country than other types of capital inflows. Therefore, this paper seeks to critically examine the determinants, the benefits and the risks of Foreign Direct Investment in developing countries. It tends to broadly analyze the factors that attract foreign investments, the benefits that the country intends to gain from direct foreign investment and the dangers associated with these kinds of investments. Foreign direct investment determinants refer to the factors (political, economic and social factors) that can attract or deter foreign investors from investing in a particular country. Stable economy, political stability and good social status are likely to attract foreign investments. However, instability in these three areas will scare investors away.

Women In Medieval Europe

Women In Medieval Europe I chose the topic of Women in Medieval Europe to write my essay about. I will attempt to provide some basic knowledge about how the lives of women were very difficult during this time. Some things that will be discussed are the submissions women had to give to men. To start this essay I ask a number of questions, the first one is as follows: What type of work did women do during this period? Women that were from poverty stricken homes would have to go out and work with their husbands to bring in more income because his alone was not enough to support their household due to women having multiple children. Women would help their husbands haul hay or plow fields. Poor women did not have shoes to wear so they walked around barefooted and during the winter they would not have any winter clothes to keep them warm so they would wrap themselves in sheets to protect them from the cold. They also took their children to work with them because they could not afford nannies like the wealthy class could. How was life different for wealthy women during this time? As with any culture having money always gives you more advantages. Although wealthy women had to obey the same things, such as not speaking unless you were spoken to or only if it was approved by a man first and obey the men. Women of higher classes had jobs to do as well some would have to help run their businesses and if their multiple businesses or properties that the family owned then she would have to help her husband over see them too. Of course they could afford to hire workers but there were somethings that had to be handled by them personally. If the womens husband passed away, then everything was left entirely up to her to take care of. Wealthy women had more advantages even when it came to caring for their children. They had the luxury of hiring nannies for this job. The nannies would even breast-feed their babies for them. Why would women in this time become a Nun? Women became nuns in this time because this was a way they could get an education and gain some rights. This was especially popular for the lower class women because this was their only hope of getting a proper education. Becoming a nun meant that she would have to be celibate and the chance of having children would be lost. By becoming a nun women grew their own crops and had their own house. With the education that was provided, they were also able to pursue careers. Many of the poor families that had multiple daughters would make their daughter become a nun because they could not afford to raise them and to ensure that they would get an education. The bad side of this was that once you became a nun it was forbidden for you to leave or have children. Back in this time it was said that a woman that could not or would not bear a mans child was of no use at all. What happened to unwed women during this time? Unmarried women that owned land or multiple properties were considered to have the same rights as men. But if and or when she did get married, then she was forced to give her husband all of her properties and she gave up her rights. Women that were not married could wear their hair down but the women that were married had to wear their hair in a linen wimple to cover her hair up because this showed sign of modesty. Women were not able to pick their husbands. Men were able to pick their wives at times. Marriages were very carefully arranged by family members. Marriages were not based on love or emotions. Families would try and arrange marriages between their daughters and sons based on economic factors. These factors would be if they had their own land, if they owned their business or if they come from a wealthy family. So once again money had a great deal to do with influences with other people. It was really a marriage of property and money that the church unified and the families would have a very large crowd of well known people to witness this occasion. This was commonly between the wealthy people but what about marriages between the poor women? The poverty stricken women and men normally married who they pleased because they had nothing to gain or lose. The legal age to get married in the medieval days was 12 for girls and 14 for boys. This was a common age to be married back then because of the expected life span. Due to lack of medical care and medicine, people died at a much younger age than they do today. There were very few reasons that the couple could get divorced. Some of the reasons they could get divorced were if they were not Christians, they were not of legal age, if they had previous promises to another person or the woman could not perform sexual relations. Women had to submit to their husbands whenever he desired for her to. Were there any powerful women during this time? One person could sum this question up and that is Joan of Arc. Joan of Arc was considered a heroic figure in France. She disguised herself as a boy to join the army and became one of the most famous leaders. Women were not allowed to join the army and that is the reason she disguised herself as a boy. Joan had said that she had visions from God and he was calling her to be a warrior. There were other famous women such as Hildegard of Bingen who was considered to be a very famous writer of sacred music in the middle ages, Christine de Pizan was a famous writer and feminist one of her more popular books were The Book of the City of Ladies and last but not least there was Lady Godiva, she was the woman famous for riding nude on a horse through the town of Coventry. She wanted to prove that the towns people were honorable and would not look at her being naked. There were a number of much respected Queens during this time, as well as a number of princesses. Final question that runs through my mind is was it really that bad for women? My answer would be yes it was extremely bad for women. Women had absolutely no rights at all. Any man in the family could tell her to do something and she had to do it. If she did not do what she was asked to do then she was badly beaten. It was said that a woman that did not obey was disobeying God. A woman had to give up her land and rights to the man she married. Also women were not even allowed to pick the person they were to marry. Imagine if it was the same way today! So many women are so outspoken and very independent that we couldnt even think about a man running our entire lives. Not only not being able to speak or do what we want to do but to be badly beaten just because we choose not to. Women were also very often accused of doing very awful things. Some of the accusations were practicing witchery; women would be burn at the stake for this. Conclusion: The conclusion for my essay is that with all of the research that I have done to see what the lives were like for women during the Medieval Period, I have found that their lives did seem extremely hard and unfair. To justify why this may have been, many would say Christianity. Eve was perceived as the trouble maker and then there was the impurity that many men thought women had because of menstrual cycles. While Christianity might have played a role as to why men thought they could treat women this way, it also provided protection for women as well. It did not allow divorce for any given reason (as it is today). It also did not allow the men to kill their wives. Sure they were able to beat them within an inch of their life but at least they did get to keep their life. There were some kings that treated women fairly and had a great deal of respect for them but there were not a lot of them. But this was well over a thousand years ago and a lot of things have changed since that time. I am personally, very grateful that they have changed!

After Apple Picking :: After Apple Picking

After Apple Picking Throwing all sexual connotations aside, "After Apple Picking" is about a dying man who is pondering the accomplishments in his life, and contemplating on the opportunities that he has let pass by. As our narrator drowses off into his final sleep, he is tired of having had so many options, but still he knows that his mind will have time to think and wonder if he should regret. As the poem starts, he is standing on his long ladder pointed towards heaven, and looking down on the apples that he didn't pick. But, he shows no sign of regret, for he admits that he is "done with apple-picking now." Though he seems quite confident in this declaration, the reader questions his sincerity as he looks down at the barrel he didn't fill. For this is his last waking hour, and questions are sure to come while "the essence of winter sleep is on the night." Our narrator goes on to talk about his strange view of the "hoary grass" through a small sheet of ice. As he is looking through this piece of "glass", it begins to melt, thus symbolizing how his view of the world is about to end. Although completely aware of his waning time, he is comforted by knowing "What form [his] dreaming was about to take. With a somewhat optimistic outlook, he is confident of the positive nature of his thoughts in the afterlife. He supposes that his "dreams" shall be of his many accomplishments; a "stem" to "blossom" overview of his life's works. The narrator also figures that his dreams will show him how he was sturdy, swaying little, when boughs of the trees were bending in the wind. He will see himself as strong under the heat of a barrage of apples come rolling in. After admitting that he has had too much of apple-picking, he seems ready to watch the "Highlights" in his dreaming. While thinking of how successful he has been in his "apple-picking", he begins to wonder of the fruitful opportunities that he has let slip through his hands and fall through to the ground.

Antonio Lopez

Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna was born on March 21, 1794 in Jalapa, Vera Cruz and died in 1876, in Mexico City. Santa Anna had started in the military in 1810 as a cadet at the age of 16, and was promoted to Brigadier General in 1822. In 1828 Santa Anna became the governor of Vera Cruz. He became governor again in Vera Cruz in the year 1829. Then in 1833 he was elected the president of Mexico. Santa Anna led the Mexican attack on the Alamo in Texas in the year 1835. Santa Anna eventually captured the Alamo. The Texans recorded 257 deaths and the Mexican Army had between 400-600 deaths.Later on his carelessness in the end allowed Sam Houston to win the battle of San Jacinto. Santa Anna was able to gain back his authority when the French invaded Vera Cruz in 1838. He was considered a hero after he had many horses shot from underneath him and lost half of his left leg. In 1842 he arranged ceremony to find his foot and parade it in Mexico City and placed it as a monument for everyone to se e. Santa Anna fought in the Mexican War and sold land to the United States called the Gadsden Purchase in 1853.In 1854 a young officer named Bonito Juarez banned Santa Anna from Mexico for ten years and Santa Anna later returned before his death. He was driven out of Mexico for having too much power and control over the country. He later returned to Mexico in 1867. He once again tried to regain more power in 1867. Before he could he was taken prisoner and condemned to the firing squad. Instead he and his family were exiled out of Mexico. He then returned to Mexico in 1874 and then died two years later at the age of 82. Santa Anna was significant to the Spanish world because he believed and fought for his country.He was also important to the Spanish world because he was a dictator of Mexico for many years. He served in the military, was president eleven times of Mexico, and was the governor of Vera Cruz twice. Santa Anna was also important because he was forced to give land to the Un ited States called the Gadsden Purchase. He led the Mexican army to attack the Alamo and was also the leader in that battle. He had defeated many armies and leaders when he was serving in the military. Santa Anna was in the military for most of his life.All these things are important about Santa Anna and are important to the Spanish world. He was very important and no one will ever forget the famous Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna and what he did. I think Santa Anna was a pretty brave man because he went through all of those battles for his country, had lost his leg, and was imprisoned in Sisal, Yucatan. I also think Santa Anna wanted way too much power because he kept trying to take over the military and the country. Also I think he deserved to be banned from the country for ten years because he was trying to get to much power.I think Santa Anna had a pretty unique life because he was president of Mexico, he was governor of Vera Cruz, and was high ranked in the military. I think Santa Anna did some weird things because he had set up a ceremony to find his lost leg and had set it up on a monument for everyone to see it and admire it. I think it was nice that his wife wanted to be buried with him before she died because that shows that his wife really cared about him. I have learned many things about Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna as in what he did and how he lived. He was one of the most famous Spanish people and I enjoyed learning about him.

African American and Black Women Essay

The article â€Å"Hip-Hop Betrayal of Black Women† was written by Jennifer McLune and appeared in Z magazine Online in the July 2006 issue. McLune argues that sexism in hip-hop’s culture is a big part and has helped make the industry what it is today. This article can be divided into 5 different sections. In the first section, she talks about Kevin Powell and how he writes how men talk about women in hip-hop. McLune goes on to say that even wealthy white boys talked about African American women in their songs, yet its okay with society. The second section she gives examples of entertainers that talk down on women and some that do not. Common, The Roots, and Talib Kweli are the artist are the artist she names that don’t talk bad about women, but they don’t stop other artist from doing so. Also they back up the artist that does degrade women so in reality they aren’t doing enough. Even black female artist are right along with the men talking about other females (McLune, 297). In the following section, McLune talks about the protest that women have done with little help to the situation. The misogyny is an attack on a woman’s character and it makes the black community looks bad as a whole (McLune, 298). The fourth section is about the acceptance of the hip-hop culture towards black women. Everyone makes excuses and tries to justify what’s going on in hip-hop, but few have actual answers to help. At a point black women writers were called traitors for writing articles and complaining about what was going on (McLune, 299). The author concludes that hip-hop thrives around the fact they bash black women and if they didn’t do this then black women would be more respected in today’s society. After careful examination of McLune’s use of rhetorical appeals, evidence of pathos, logos, and ethos were used throughout the article. McLune wrote about the discrimination of black women throughout hip-hop. The dominate rhetorical appeal used by McLune is pathos, which â€Å"is an emotional appeal that involves using language that will stair the feelings of the audience† (Hooper, etal 86). She complains about being a black woman and hearing the excuses for men when they talk about women in hip-hop and how it is just okay with society. McLune is also irate about the fact that Eve, who is a female rapper raps about women in a bad way and doesn’t seem to think that, that is not right. Another type of appeal McLune uses is logos â€Å"which demonstrates an effective use of reason and judicious use of evidence† (Hooper, etal 86). Back in the 60s it was wrong and considered unfair to demonize colored men, but yet the men in today’s society are disrespecting colored women. The author explains how record labels exploit this and benefit off of the disrespect artist show black women. The least used appeal by McLune is ethos â€Å"which establishes the speaker’s or writer’s credibility† (Hooper, etal 86). Hip-hop owes its success to woman hating. Few artist dare to be different and not speak badly about women and the ones that do, they don’t make it clear that they feel it’s disrespectful for rappers to demoralize women which is not good in itself. McLune uses evidence to support her claim, one type of evidence she uses is examples she brings up Jay-Z rap lyrics and how he talks about women in his songs, â€Å"I pimp hard on a trick, look Fuck if your leg broke bitch, hop up on your good leg. † Also talks about good rappers such as Talib Kweli and how he has been praised for his song â€Å"Black Girl Pain†, but at the same time McLune feels he isn’t fully aware of the pain a black girl goes through. Another type is when McLune uses expert opinions such as Kevin Powell, she quotes him in â€Å"Notes of a Hip Hop Head† he writes that you’d think men didn’t like women as much as they talked about them and how they refer to them as baby mommas, chickenheads, or b*****s (McLune, 297). McLune believes that hip-hop has benefitted from the woman bashing and Powell believes that it has spawned on its own terms of making something out of nothing. A third type is comparisons between other women writers that have spoke about this topic whose articles have been pushed away and they have been called traitors for refusing to be silent about the disrespect the rap community has given black women. Finally, several types of rhetorical fallacies are apparent in this article. One type is ad hominem â€Å"which refers to a personal attack on an opponent that draws attention away from the issues under consideration† (Hooper, etal 93). McLune talks about Jay-Z and his rap lyrics how they are degrading women and explains that he is one of the worst ones in the industry. Another type of fallacy is bandwagon â€Å"which is an argument saying, in effect, everyone’s doing or saying or thinking this, so you should, too† (Hooper, etal 93). For example, she says that same rappers don’t talk about women in their raps, but they don’t say anything to the rappers that do. In reality they know if they were to say something to those rappers that they probably would have a hard time getting somewhere in the rap industry. A final type of rhetorical fallacy is red herring â€Å"that means dodging the real issue by drawing attention to an irrelevant one† (Hooper, etal 95). Kevin Powell blames the negatives in hip-hop on everything but the hip-hop culture itself, he thinks it is another reason for that. McLune also talks about rap lyrics that are bad, but doesn’t bring up the good rap lyrics about women. As a result of man’s betrayal of black women in hip-hop the black women is not respected in today’s society which has been talked about in several articles. Another author who addresses this issue is Johnnetta B. Cole in â€Å"What Hip-Hop has done to Black Women† Cole explains that it has been a growing war between Black men and women since the 60s and hip-hop is a significant and influential site of contemporary gender battles (Cole 90). Both authors state that hip-hop has generated a lot of profit from the way that rap artist talk down on black women. We can follow McLune’s proposal to boycott rap music and maybe just maybe they will realize what they are saying in their songs actually have an impact on the black community and that to make things better artist have to respect woman. Music is a big part in everyday life and it would be hard to get everybody on the same page as to boycott it, but something must happen because black women do need to be treated much better by black men. If society can manage to boycott rap music then artist would be forced to listen to the peoples concern and change their music for the better (McLune, 300). Works Cited Cole, Johnnetta B. â€Å"What hip-hop has done to Black women. † Ebony Mar. 2007: 90. Print. Hooper, M. Clay, Teta Banks, D. Marzette, Beth Arnette Wade. Eds. Analytical Writing: A Guide to College Composition I. Mason, OH: Cengage Learning. 2011. Print. McLune, Jennifer. â€Å"Hip-Hop’s Betrayal of Black Women. † Analytical Writing: A Guide to College Composition I. Ed. M. Clay Hooper, Teta Banks, D. Marzette, Beth Arnette Wade. Mason, OH: Cengage Learning, 2011. 296-300. Print.

buy custom Jazz Music essay

buy custom Jazz Music essay Jazz is one of the musical that was developed by African Americans and impacted by the harmonic structure of the whites. In most cases, Jazz is marked by the utilization of intonation and blues speeches. There is no specific date that one can account as the day for emergence of Jazz. Research indicate that in the 1840s, there was use of plantation brass accompanied by this kind of music. In fact, the earliest Jazz are said to have been developed in New Orleans which is a city that has mixed cultural tradition and race. Jazz continued to evolve in the days. Most of its composers were thrust into the public sphere. In fact, it became an anthem for the back members of the society. The following paper discusses the effect of Jazz on the black community. Jazz music was an opportunity for expression of the black Americans. In essence, many blacks had faced discrimination in the United States. They were taken in as slaves. The freed slaves, however, did not get similar treatment to the whites. They would work hard for minimal labor. Moreover, they had to use social amenities that were of low standards compared to those of the white. The evolution of the jazz music was thus significant to their exisence. It is because it gave them room to voice their anger, fear and frustration that they did face in their daily life. It is vital to note that Jazz developed from most of the Afro-American music. Moreover, it led to the opening of the discussions regarding segregation and racism based on institution that had characterized the setting. For instance, if Jazz was sung in a public zone, people would unintentionally get into discussion regarding the problem of discrimination. Jazz music thus brought psychological relief to the black Jazz music created a sense of integration among the blacks (Baskerville 44). Every person needs a sense of belonging. In fact, there is no person who would live to exist as an island. The black Americans were not an exception. They were in foreign land. Moreover, they were undergoing different kinds of suffering. Jazz music thus gave them a form of identity and belonging. They developed a feeling of integration towards each other. They would attend such joints and relieve themselves by singing to the popular tunes. In fact, the evolution of Jazz music gave room for many black Americans to find hope amidst social difficulties. They would enjoy social mobility. They would identify with the struggless that each person was encountering. Consequently, it helped them persevere. Research shows that despite the differences, jazz community remained integrated. Jazz music escalated the victimization of the blacks. It is a negative impact of the evolution of jazz. Jazz music gave room to the exploitation and discrimination of the blacks (Baskerville 67). It is evident in how Jazz musicians would be treated. The whites remained in total control of the music industry. The black musicians would be exploited unto death. The whites also through the music developed a clear perception that blacks were inferior to them. Consequently, they continued esteeming their perception. In fact, it seemed as though their actions were justified. However, the ultimate win for jazz was that in the long run, they became recognized. The blacks gained their full identity. They had a passion and a way of life that the rest of the society sought to protect. The discussion reveals that Jazz played a fundamental role in the life of the Black Americans. It was their voice to express their pain and suffering. Jazz gave them a sense of belonging. However, it negatively impacted that by enhancing their victimization. Buy custom Jazz Music essay

Be All That You Can Be Essay Example

Be All That You Can Be Essay Example Be All That You Can Be Paper Be All That You Can Be Paper Essay Topic: Everything I Never Told You Be all that you can be in the Army. Earn up to $40,000 for college, get valuable training, and have your health at risk for the rest of your life, and don’t forget the 30 days paid vacation. I know you all have heard that slogan before, or maybe you should have. That is what the Army should tell you on all of those commercials since they made it mandatory for every soldier to be vaccinated against the deadly illness, anthrax. But, if you refuse the vaccination then you are out of not only a job but also you could serve jail time. Soldiers should not be put in a position where they have to choose between risking their health or losing their job. There are many problems with the vaccine itself. The vaccine has never undergone long term test, so even the Department of Defense has no idea what this could possibly do to soldiers down the road of life. That right there tells you that the Generals in the Pentagon don’t care about your life at all. I wonder if our friends, the leaders of our armed forces were also forced to take this vaccine. When the vaccine first became mandatory for all personnel, I was stationed in Korea. Due to the fact that we were overseas, we had the opportunity to be the first troops to receive it. I however was exempt from taking the vaccine because I was leaving the country in the next two months and time wouldn’t allow me to receive the shots in proper order. What I witnessed my colleagues go through was enough for me to swear never to except the shots. I saw a large group of people break out in hives and actually had the opportunity to watch one soldier have a seizure. Now, the Army won’t say whether or not the seizure had anything to do with the shots but I was fairly certain. The Anthrax vaccine was administered during the Gulf War to soldiers that went over to the Middle East to fight. Now there is an undiagnosed disease called the Gulf War disease. Many soldiers have thought to be exposed to a plethora of chemical weapons during the War. Yet only one of them has been confirmed, that being the anthrax injections they received before going over there. The anthrax vaccination could be a contributing factor to the Gulf War disease that so many soldiers still suffer from. When the Department of Defense came up with the total military inoculation policy it was all over the news including CNN, because it was so controversial. This is very idiotic if you ask me. Don’t you think that Sadaam Hussien and all of the other small threats to the United States watch CNN? Those small countries can afford many different kinds and large quantities of chemical weapons due to their low cost. They are no longer going to even bother launching an anthrax missile at our troops because they know they have a chance at surviving. They will just shoot some other disease filled rocket that they are certain we cannot defend against. When one joins the military there are a number of reasons that could be possible. There is education benefits, training, money, family traditions, and first and foremost, to serve their country. I don’t think that anyone would join the military so they could endanger their own health. Sure there is always that knowledge that some day you may be called upon to go to combat, but injuring your health during peacetime is not heroic. If you die while in combat you will most likely be decorated with all kinds of metals and awards for bravery. The only thing that you will get for becoming unhealthy during peacetime is a look at the inside of a VA hospital and poor treatment. You will probably hear every excuse in the world why you are sick all the time, but you will never hear once that it is linked to the shots you were forced to take while you were in the military. It is the individuals’ responsibility to be aware of their surroundings. Before some one consumes something that they have never seen before don’t they normally say, â€Å"What is that†? Before you take any vaccine you should ask yourself what it is and do the necessary research to find out what it actually is. I am not saying that you will ever come across something so exotic as anthrax, but you should question everything and go with you gut. Following orders only for the reason that someone told you to is ridiculous. You wouldn’t hit yourself in the head with a hammer just because some one told you to, so don’t inflict any harm on yourself unless you are certain it is your only alternative.

Chatter, Natter, and Patter

Chatter, Natter, and Patter Chatter, Natter, and Patter Chatter, Natter, and Patter By Mark Nichol Three coincidentally rhyming words that all serve as slang to describe idle and extensive talk are discussed in this post. To chatter is to talk quickly and/or casually, though the term also refers to any fast, high-pitched, or clicking sound, such as the involuntary striking of one’s upper and lower teeth in response to cold or fear. One who chatters in the sense of speaking is a chatterer, and the adjectival form is chattery, though both words are rarely used. However, chat is a common verb describing the action of informal conversation and a noun for the act itself, as well as, by extension, a term describing casual online correspondence (or the semblance of such when communicating with a business’s customer-service representative). One prone to chatting is chatty, and chit-chat is reduplicative slang for such a pastime. The pejorative phrase â€Å"chattering classes† was coined to refer to well-educated people who often express their sociopolitical views (other than one’s own); the sense has narrowed somewhat to apply to journalists, politicians, and academicians. The verb natter pertains to long, trivial conversation; in British English, the word is also a noun, but it is not employed as such in American English. Both chatter and natter are onomatopoeic (imitative of talking or other sounds), but patter, which has more nuanced definitions, also has a more complicated origin; it derives from pater, the first word in Latin of the Lord’s Prayer, also known as the Paternoster (â€Å"Our Father†). The often rapid-fire delivery of this prayer at the closing of church services inspired the slang word, which refers to quick speech, but with one of two specific connotations: either the stereotypical hard-sell verbal onslaught of a high-pressure salesperson, or a humorous, almost singsong delivery in light entertainment, such as the tongue-twisting torrents uttered by mid-twentieth-century comedian Danny Kaye or by performers in Gilbert and Sullivan light operas, written during the Victorian era. The near rhyme prattle, derived by way of prate from a Dutch word, is a synonym, as is tattle, though it more often refers to telling secrets or reporting on another’s misdeeds. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:When to use "on" and when to use "in"8 Proofreading Tips And TechniquesHow to Style Legislative Terms

Study Strategies for Specific Course Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Study Strategies for Specific Course - Essay Example Critical Thinking Strategy The first study strategy to be applied in any specific course by a college student would be critical thinking strategy. Looking at the three basic learning styles, auditory learners would have easier time critiquing, synthesizing and analyzing information that they have heard, visual learners would easily critique, synthesis and analyses data they have seen while finally Kinestic learners would easily analyze, synthesis and critique information that was touched. Therefore this means that Critical thinking directly affects the domains of the English language whereby listeners, speakers, readers and writers all acquire and develop this skill in different ways. Reading Strategy Another study strategy would be reading. This study strategy requires the provision of a conducive surrounding and environment. The conditions for this environment should be silence and away from distractions should be provided. Considering the three basic learning styles, the auditory learners and kinestic learners would have a harder time trying to implement this strategy as compared to the visual learners. This is due to the fact that visual learners grasp more information through sight and in reading of books and other sources the source of sight is the most important aspect. Looking at the four domains of English language, it is clear that listeners, speakers and writers should sharpen their reading skills by applying this strategy in order to grasp more information through reading. SQ3R Method Strategy Another important study strategy would be application of the SQ3R method. This method involved Surveying, Questioning, Reading, Reciting then Reviewing once work. This method requires one to be disciplined to ensure they follow this procedure to the letter and do it on a daily basis. By application of this method, auditory learners, visual learners and kinestic learners all have an equal opportunity to benefit from applying this method of learning. This is due to the fact that this strategy touches on all the aspects of learning. Considering the four domains of the English language it would be true to say that by application of this strategy, learners, readers, writers and speakers are all able to gain another skill and sharpen their other skills as this strategy touches on all the four domains. The rhetorical triangle usually refers to presentation of wrk considering three main factors. This is the information the audience and the message. In college the audience is usually the professor or instructor of the course and therefore a student should ensure that the information conveyed to him is in the correct context. In taking up this study strategy and following the steps that entail this study a student is assured to convey the correct information to the instructor Conclusion In conclusion, when applying the critical thinking strategy as a study strategy it would involve the sharpening the skills of critiquing, synthesizing and analyzin g information. Critical thinking skills are not skills that one is born with one has to gradually develop them. This therefore means that neither auditory learners, visual learners nor kinestic learners have an advantage in implementation of this learning strategy. Therefore development of critical thinking skills requires patience and dedication Conclusively, when application of the

Juvenile gang in Birmingham, AL Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Juvenile gang in Birmingham, AL - Research Paper Example This paper will examine the nature of gang problem in Birmingham, Alabama. Gang presence in Birmingham, Alabama is a real problem just as it is in the various states that make up the US. A gang may be defined as a group of 2 or more people, who come together for the common purpose of acquiring financial and/or political benefits through illegal means (Delaney, 2005). To achieve this, gang members utilize violence, intimidation, harassment and other unconventional means to establish and maintain their influence and significance in areas, which they perceive as their territories. Gangs, therefore, are a major threat to security within their areas of operation and though the federal government and state governments have continued to arrest and prosecute gang members, not much has been achieved (Delaney, 2005). This paper is a critical evaluation of gangs and gang related crimes in Birmingham, Alabama. Gang violence in Birmingham, Alabama is not a new phenomenon especially due to the fact that it is one of the places in the US, which are rich destinations for immigrants (Howell, 2011). However, the authorities, in the past, have continued to downplay and under report gang existence probably in an effort to mask their inability to deal with the problem. On the other hand, some law enforcers and community leaders especially in the FBI gang taskforce have acknowledged the rising cases of gang behavior especially in the young population comprising mostly of school children. The taskforce observed that immigration of people of Hispanic origin to the region has been one of the major contributing factors to gang behavior in the area as they are known to have the culture of influencing and participating in organized criminal activities such as drug and gun trafficking. Reports indicate that gangs, such as SUR 13, which is highly associated with Mexican mafia, have

WalMart Strategic Audit Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

WalMart Strategic Audit - Essay Example b. Top Management III. EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT: a In order to analyze the strategic situation first of all SWOT analysis have been under taken, which I have presented as under: SWOT Analysis of the Wal-Mart Company STRENGTHS Strong Brand name. Extended customer in more than 200 countries. Use of SAP R/3 Enterprise Resource planning software Low threat of new entrants. Continuous training programs for employees. High budgets of advertising and promotion. Good relations with media. Web based presence. WEAKNESSES Subsidiaries create legal and territorial problems. Lack of funds for regional suppliers to continue expansion Old image still exists. Inconsistent marketing message. OPPORTUNITIES Expansion in shape of introduction of new and innovative products. Expanding market due to globalization. THREATS Current economic climate. Results to be achieved in future can be less than projected "The Threats-Opportunities-Weaknesses-Strengths (TOWS) Matrix is an important matching tool that helps managers develop four types of strategies: So Strategies, WO strategies, ST Strategies, and WT Strategies. SO strategies use a firm's internal strengths to take advantage of external opportunities. WO Strategies aim at improving internal weaknesses by taking advantage of external opportunities. ST Strategies use a firm's strengths to avoid or reduce the impact of external threats. WT Strategies are defensive tactics directed at reducing internal weaknesses and avoiding environmental threats." (David, 180-181) SWOT Matrix: External Opportunities (O) 1. Double-digit growth rate in retail market in Central and North Europe. 2. Consumption of 70 cans per capita annually. External Threats (T) 1. Moderate threat of substitutes. 2. Competitors have gained...(P.454) The process of strategic management has proven to be the force of providing financial benefits for the organizations. In The Balanced Scorecard, Kaplan and Norton provided managers a framework to measure organizational performance from four perspectives: financial, customer, internal business processes, and learning and growth. While organizations worked to implement their own strategy for using balanced measures, Kaplan and Norton discovered a consistent pattern for achieving strategic focus and alignment." (Kaplan & Norton) "The Threats-Opportunities-Weaknesses-Strengths (TOWS) Matrix is an important matching tool that helps managers develop four types of strategies: So Strategies, WO strategies, ST Strategies, and WT Strategies. 6. Wal-Mart is one of the many organizations that use SAP R/3 Enterprise Resource planning software. This software allows all members of the Wal-Mart organization to access the information at anytime where ever they are in the world." (The geographic view of Wal-Mart can be label as global) * "The Strategic Position and Action Evaluation (SPACE) Matrix is another important stage 2 matching tool with four-quadrant framework indicates whether aggressive, conservative, defensive, or competitive strategies are most appropriate for a given organization.

"Creative Spark" Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

"Creative Spark" - Research Paper Example Through the talk, we are able to gain an in depth perspective on creative confidence while engaging in a number of matters surrounding it. David begins by mentioning that people more often classify themselves as the creative and not creative type. However, according to David, people are born creative but over time the creativity in them is eroded by judgmental persons around them (Kelly & Kelly, 2012). He advances to illustrate his theory using an example of his friend Brian, who at a young age was discouraged from pursuing his artist ambition by a fellow student. He goes ahead to say that many people similarly opt out of thinking and viewing themselves as creative during their childhood and this is attributed to remarks made by teachers and fellow students. Remarks made when they try to be creative dent their confidence. David further tries to present tips on how to eliminate this negative energy. He equates the process of building ones creative confidence to that of overcoming a phobia. He clearly outlines how Albert Bandura, who David terms as the fourth most important psychologist, used a series of step by step procedures to help people overcome their fear of snakes. One needs to overcome fear of the messy unknown, fear of judgment, fear of the first step and fear of losing control to gain creative confidence (Ted Summaries, 2014). The speaker in yet another in depth illustration describes how creativity makes the world a better place. He discusses a technician who by all means is at first deemed not creative but due to a problem he notices at work decides to come up with a solution (Kelly & Kelly, 2012). The solution involves him being creative and developing something that solves the initial problem. He remodeled the MRI by painting it in bright colors with a pirate ship theme so kids would not be terrified of scans. According to David, regaining creative confidence is crucial. It helps one gain a totally new view

How can I come professional in safety major Essay

How can I come professional in safety major - Essay Example Due to time and geographic constraints, not all students can enroll for on-campus programs. In this regard, some colleges and universities conduct their coursework on line. It is also possible for one to be a safety professional by taking a certificate course in occupational safety. A certificate program in most cases lasts for few months. Within that period, practitioners are prepared to undertake national certification exams for example the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Even though a certificate in safety is limited in terms of courses, it gives basic safety skills such as regulations, prevention of accidents, safety policies among others (Jeroen et al 17). An individual who want to be a safety personnel can also undertake an associate degree in occupational safety. This course gives imperative training that prepares students to enter well paying job. Being focused at developing students on communication skills, handling safety equipments and detection of hazards, associ ate degree in occupational safety prepares the graduates to work as junior safety practitioners or pre-service. By working for some time in any of these posts, an individual is able to acquire relevant skills that make him or her to be promoted to senior position in the safety department. Taking a minimum of 65 credit hours, associate degree in occupational safety takes a minimum of 2 years to complete.An individual who aims at attaining appropriate qualification in safety should undertake a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety. Key aspects that are covered by this program includes fundamental course in safety, upper-division specialists and an internship at the end of training. As compared to an associate degree, coursework undertaken by students in Bachelor degree is usually extensive and more involving. Consequently, individuals with a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety have extensive knowledge that exposes them to more job opportunities. Being a course that is offered by majority of universities in the world, Bachelors degree in safety provides relevant skills to individuals. Some of the major areas that are covered by bachelor's degrees in occupational safety includes writing skills, health and social theory, oral presentations, management and leadership skills among others. Employees or individuals who are focused at improving their skills in safety but have no access to on-campus program can take online Bachelor’s degrees in occupational safety. It is vital to note that based on their flexibility, on line courses have turned to be major opportunity that employees can take to improve their safety skills thus becoming eligible for promotion (Charles and Mortimer 36)

Organization in Terms of Developing Leadership Diversity Essay

Organization in Terms of Developing Leadership Diversity - Essay Example It is evidently clear from the research that the leadership is highly autocracy, with Evans making a sole decision without consulting or communicating effectively to the workers. Evans is an amoral manager and acts with emotions to solve issues with no ethical reasoning towards the Asians cultural behaviors and religion. Jones is leading a team of people in a department. He had effective communication skills and managerial skills able to met various stakeholders and strike a balance. He has both responsible and with integrity as he noted the cultural issue within the organization. Both the leadership was accountable to the workers whereas the workers were not accountable to air their grievances on the issues instead they involved their spouses to address the issue. The workers lacked confidence and not proactive in addressing the cultural issue. The author would offer an authentic leadership; he would know the Asian cultural beliefs and values, by this, he will win the trust of the A sian community. The researcher will encourage an open door policy to increase information flow and communication. With knowledge of the situation, possible options available from the various responses and critical analysis of the immediate and future consequences, the author will call the leaders forum and develop a work plan to incorporate a win-win situation. Pat had preconceived notions on his success in IT thinking he has more expertise than the rest, further during the interview, he stated that the board should consider the position on the merit of work and reputation. Carmelita had a success in working across departments, i.e. teams, and suppliers and she could solve any problem arising in the section. Whereas Pat had more narrow capabilities only on technical and intelligence aspect.

How can I come professional in safety major Essay

How can I come professional in safety major - Essay Example Due to time and geographic constraints, not all students can enroll for on-campus programs. In this regard, some colleges and universities conduct their coursework on line. It is also possible for one to be a safety professional by taking a certificate course in occupational safety. A certificate program in most cases lasts for few months. Within that period, practitioners are prepared to undertake national certification exams for example the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Even though a certificate in safety is limited in terms of courses, it gives basic safety skills such as regulations, prevention of accidents, safety policies among others (Jeroen et al 17). An individual who want to be a safety personnel can also undertake an associate degree in occupational safety. This course gives imperative training that prepares students to enter well paying job. Being focused at developing students on communication skills, handling safety equipments and detection of hazards, associ ate degree in occupational safety prepares the graduates to work as junior safety practitioners or pre-service. By working for some time in any of these posts, an individual is able to acquire relevant skills that make him or her to be promoted to senior position in the safety department. Taking a minimum of 65 credit hours, associate degree in occupational safety takes a minimum of 2 years to complete.An individual who aims at attaining appropriate qualification in safety should undertake a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety. Key aspects that are covered by this program includes fundamental course in safety, upper-division specialists and an internship at the end of training. As compared to an associate degree, coursework undertaken by students in Bachelor degree is usually extensive and more involving. Consequently, individuals with a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety have extensive knowledge that exposes them to more job opportunities. Being a course that is offered by majority of universities in the world, Bachelors degree in safety provides relevant skills to individuals. Some of the major areas that are covered by bachelor's degrees in occupational safety includes writing skills, health and social theory, oral presentations, management and leadership skills among others. Employees or individuals who are focused at improving their skills in safety but have no access to on-campus program can take online Bachelor’s degrees in occupational safety. It is vital to note that based on their flexibility, on line courses have turned to be major opportunity that employees can take to improve their safety skills thus becoming eligible for promotion (Charles and Mortimer 36)

Personal Dilemma Paper Essay Example for Free

Personal Dilemma Paper Essay In February 2014, Baltimore Ravens player Ray Rice and his fiancà ©e Janay Palmer (now wife) were arrested, charged and later released in Atlantic City on what was called simple assault charges. The details were not clear at the time. However, what was known was that Rice and Palmer got into a some form of an altercation inside the Revel Casino. Rices lawyer stated in was just a minor physical altercation. Not long afterward video footage surfaced showing Rice dragging an unconscious Palmer out of an elevator. The Ravens organization as a whole defended Rice after he was arrested and reiterated he would continue to be the teams running back. Steve Bisciotti, the team owner, praised Rice and his good character and noted that Rice had no prior off-field trouble. The charges against Rice were elevated to aggravated assault after prosecutors presented the case to a grand jury. At that point, the charges were dropped against Palmer for simple assault (AP, 2014). Palmer stated she did not wish to proceed with prosecuting Rice. However, that did not keep the state of New Jersey from moving forward with prosecuting the case. Rice did not accept a plea deal that would keep him out of jail in exchange for going through anger management and the successful completion of probation. Instead, he decided to plead not guilty and apply for a first-time offender program that might remove any charges in as little as six-months. Under this program, Rice would need to keep out of any trouble and partake in counseling on a regular basis. Prosecutors did allow Rice into this program instead of going to trial. If he stays out of trouble and completes the 12-month program, his record will not reflect the case. Interestingly, this program is normally only used for non-violent and victimless crimes. Also, entry into the program has been granted in less than 1% of all domestic violence cases in the state of New Jersey (AP, 2014). The National Football League (NFL) claimed it had not seen any video of an altercation within the casino elevator. A law enforcement official stated the elevator video was sent to the NFL in April and he had proof in the form of a 12-second voicemail with a number within the NFL offices that confirmed the videos arrival. The league office denied ever receiving it. The league claims it requested the tape, but was denied. The Ravens also claimed not to have seen the video until it was released by TMZ (AP, 2014). Rice is basically assured of not going to jail, but was not able to keep the NFL commissioner from laying down a little justice of his own. He originally suspended Rice for a mere two games. This decision was met with considerable public outrage. Goodell had to admit that his initial punishment was wrong and beefed up the NFLs policy on domestic violence in reaction to the public outrage. The new policy would suspend a player six-games with no pay for a first offense, and lifetime banishment for a second offense. After seeing Rice knocking his wife unconscious, the Ravens terminated his contract. Allegedly, the team made this decision because Rice was not honest with them. Shortly after his release from the team, the league suspended him indefinitely. Since the league had previously suspended Rice (the initial two-games), the commissioner needed justification to indefinitely suspend him. The commissioner notified the Players Association that an indefinite suspension resulted from Rice telling them something different than what appeared on the video of him hitting Palmer. Contrary to the commissioners statements, there were several sources (including Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome) who stated that Rice was being truthful (McManus, 2014). By all accounts, Rice was known as a good guy. The commissioner said seeing the video changed everything. But, why? Everyone knew what happened before the video was released. Rice knocked out his then fiancà ©e in an elevator. Nothing changed before or after the video was released. Goodell stated they should have seen it earlier and should have pursued their own investigation more vigorously. That is true. So, why didnt they? The question still remains. Why would seeing the video change their minds about his punishment? Initially, it was only worth a two game suspension. Remember,  nothing changed. After the video was released, he is suspended indefinitely. Since this is his first offence, shouldnt he be suspended for only six games? Why should he lose his job and income. Wouldnt it be better of the NFL and the Ravens organization to help this man and his family instead of just tossing him away like trash? Rice was clearly tried and found guilty by the court of public opinion. It is amazing how fast we are as a society to be publicly correct, jump to conclusions, and show our willingness to take away a persons livelihood. References AP, (2014). Timeline of Key Events in the Ray Rice Case. Retrieved on 13 Sep 14 from http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/timeline-key-events-ray-rice-case-25441413 McManus, J. (2014). How the NFLs new domestic violence stance came to be. Retrieved on 13 Sep 14 from http://espn.go.com/espnw/news-commentary/article/11464303/how-nfl-new-domestic-violence-stance-came-be

Properties Of Soil Including Density And Porosity Environmental Sciences Essay

Properties Of Soil Including Density And Porosity Environmental Sciences Essay Experiments were undertaken to obtain the bulk density, particle density, and soil porosity of four soil samples. Bulk density, particle density, and soil porosity are all interrelated terms. Density is the relationship between the mass (m) and volume (V) of a substance. . Based on this relationship, an object or substance that has high mass in relation to its size (or volume) also has a high density (D). Soil bulk density (Db) is a measure of the mass of soil per unit volume (solids + pore space) and is usually reported on an oven-dry basis. The particles that make up a soil have a specific particle density (Dp), which is defined as the mass of solid particles in a unit volume. This can be expressed as, . The particle density of a soil is not affected by particle size or arrangement; rather it depends on the type of solid particles present in the soils. Unlike the measurement of particle density, the bulk density measurement accounts for the spaces between the soil particles (pore s pace) as well as the soil solids. Soils with a high proportion of pore space have lower mass per unit volume, and therefore have low bulk density. A bulk density greater than 1.6 g cm-3 may indicate soil compaction, which means these soils have a low proportion of pore space and, therefore, low porosity. The bulk density indirectly provides a measure of the soil porosity which is the ratio of the volume of soil pores to the total soil volume. Clayey soils generally have an abundance of very small pores that give them a higher total porosity compared to sands, which are dominated by larger, but fewer pores. MATERIALS: 1. Core soil samples 2. Balance (0.1 g precision) 3. Flat-bladed knife 4. Veneer calliper 5. Disturbed soil samples 6. 100 ml measuring cylinder 7. De-aired water METHOD: The bulk density of the soil was calculated after following a series of steps. Firstly, excess soil from each of the disturbed soil sample was removed using a flat-bladed knife, ensuring that the bottom of the sample was flat and even with the edges of the ring. Excess material or roots penetrating from the sample was cut using a scissors. The dimensions of the core were then measured using a veneer calliper and the dimensions obtained were plugged into the formula Volume= à Ã¢â€š ¬ * radius 2* height to calculate the volume of the core. This value was then used to obtain the bulk density of the soil (Db = ). Afterwards, approximately 50g of soil was weighed out in a weigh dish for each soil sample and the soil weight was recorded to the nearest 0.1 g. e 50 cm of water was then poured into a 100 ml graduated cylinder and the previously weighed soil was added into the water in small increments. Air bubbles were eliminated by stirring with a rod and the final volume of the soil water suspension was read and the value was recorded. This value was then used to calculate the particle density of each soil sample (Dp = ). Using the measured densities the percentage soil porosity was calculated via the formula, 100-( Db / Dp * 100). Data was recorded and presented in a tabular format. RESULTS: SOIL SAMPLE HEIGHT OF CORE (cm) DIAMETER OF CORE (cm) VOLUME OF CORE SAMPLER (cm3) 1 5.548 5.36 125.2 2 3.862 5.58 94.5 3 4.889 5.858 131.8 4 4.798 5.384 109.2 FIGURE 1: TABLE SHOWING THE HEIGHT, DIAMETER AND VOLUME OF THE CORE SAMPLER FOR EACH SOIL SAMPLE. SOIL SAMPLE WEIGHT VOLUME (cm3) 1 319.6g 69 2 276.6g 69 3 273.2g 71 4 343.6g 70 TABLE SHOWING THE WEIGHT AND VOLUME OF THE FOUR SOIL SAMPLES. SOIL SAMPLE WEIGHT OF FIELD MOIST SOIL SAMPLE (g) WITH CORE WEIGHT OF DRY SOIL SAMPLE (g) WITH CORE WEIGHT OF CORE (g) WEIGHT OF DRY SOIL SAMPLE (g) (WEIGHT OF DRY SOIL WITHOUT CORE WEIGHT) 1 356.7 319.5 188.5 131 2 277.4 276.6 105.1 171.5 3 390.1 273.2 145.8 127.4 4 245.6 343.6 104.5 239.1 FIGURE 1: TABLE SHOWING WEIGHT OF FIELD MOIST SOIL SAMPLE AND OVEN DRY SOIL SAMPLE. SOIL SAMPLE WEIGHT OF SOIL SAMPLE (g) INITIAL VOLUME OF WATER (cm3) FINAL VOLUME OF WATER (cm3) VOLUME OF THE SOIL PARTCLES (cm3) 1 50.00 50 69 19 2 50.00 50 69 19 3 50.00 50 71 21 4 50.00 50 70 20 FIGURE 4: TABLE SHOWING WEIGHT OF SOIL SAMPLE, INITIAL VOLUME OF WATER, FINAL VOLUME OF WATER AND VOLUME OF SOIL PARTICLES. SOIL SAMPLE BULK DENSITY (g/cm-3) PARTICLE DENSITY (g/cm-3) SOIL POROSITY (%) 1 1.9 6.9 72.5 2 2.49 9.03 72.4 3 1.8 6.1 70.5 4 3.42 12 71.5 FIGURE 2: TABLE SHOWING THE BULK DENSITY, PARTICLE DENSITY AND SOIL POROSITY OF EACH SOIL SAMPLE. To calculate how many grams of soil are in a hectare plow layer: Depth = 15cm =0.15m Hectare = 10,000m2 Volume of HPL = Area of Hectare * Depth of plow = 10,000 * 0.15 = 1500m3 Db = 1.4g/cm3 = 1kg = 1000g à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã‚ ´1400kg=1400 ÃÆ'-1,000 = 1,400,000g Therefore, there are 1,400,000g of soil in a hectare plow layer. DISCUSSION: Soil porosity and bulk density are interrelated terms. Soil bulk density (Db) is a measure of the mass of soil per unit volume while soil porosity is the ratio of the volume of soil pores to the total soil volume. Bulk density (Db) is closely related to the soil porosity through the following relationship:. The bulk density indirectly provides a measure of the soil porosity (amount of pore space). The value obtained from the measurement of soil bulk density can be used to calculate pore space. For soils with the same particle density, the lower the bulk density, the higher the percent pore space or total porosity. Soil porosity values range from 0 to 1. Soils with a high bulk density have low total porosity because empty pores do not have any mass. When the bulk density is zero, porosity equals 1, meaning there are no particles. If the bulk density is equal to the particle density, then there are no pores and porosity is zero. Soil porosity can be affected by changes occurring in the soil. The porosity of the soil decreases in compacted subsoils and increases in well- aggregated, high organic matter surface soils. The values range from as low as 25% to more than 60% respectively. Soil management can also alter soil porosity values such that, cultivated soils tend to have a lower total pore space as a result of a decrease in organic matter content and a consequent lowering of granulation, in comparison to uncultivated soils. Bulk density and porosity are also affected by changes in soil texture. Fine-textured soils including clay, clay loam and silt loams typically have lower bulk densities as compared to sandy soils, due to the presence of pores between and within the granules. As a result, these fine-textured soils containing a high proportion of pore spaces to solids tend to have low bulk densities. Sandy soils, on the other hand, though larger in particle size have larger yet fewer pore spaces, resulting in a higher bulk density. In terms of porosity, fine-textured soils are very porous. This is because of the large amount of micropores in fine-textures soils which allow water to be held. These micropores prevent the water from being drained away and therefore, result in high total porosity. In contrast, sandy soils have less total porosity due to the relative absence or lack of fine, within-ped pores. This allows water to be drained away easily through the macropores present in sandy soils. Addition ally, bulk density and porosity are affected by changes in the size class of the soil particles. Bulk density is lower in sandy soils or well-sorted sand where the particles are generally of one size class whereas a mixture of different size particles (well-graded sand) will cause a high bulk density. In well-graded sand the smaller particles partially fill in the spaces between the larger particles causing a reduction in the pore spaces and a resultant increase in bulk density. Soil porosity, on the other hand, is decreased in well-graded sand as compared to well-sorted sand. Another factor impacting bulk density and porosity is compaction. Soil compaction refers to the disruption and reduction of the large pores within the soil. It can be caused in a variety of ways such as, the practice of poor agricultural practices, use of machinery on soil, etc. Compaction increases the mass in a given volume, which increases the measured bulk density. Bulk density increases because both the micropores and macropores in a soil are significantly reduced after compaction has taken place. Therefore, with the removal of these empty pores, the mass of soil increases in a given volume. With regards to porosity, compaction reduces the total pore spaces and hence, the total porosity. In conclusion, bulk density and porosity are two interrelated soil properties which are altered by various factors including soil texture, compaction and soil structure. Calculations into the bulk density and porosity were carried out. Some limitations presented were the fact that bulk density and porosity values would differ from place to place due to certain factors, for example, the level of compaction in an area. However, these figures can be useful in determining the crop yield of a soil.

The Voice of the Sea in The Awakening Essay -- Chopin Awakening Essay

The Voice of the Sea in The Awakening  Ã‚  Ã‚        Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Many different symbols were utilized in Kate Chopin's The Awakening to illustrate the underlying themes and internal conflict of the characters.   One constant and re-emerging symbol is the sea.   The voice of the sea is seductive, never ceasing, whispering, clamoring, murmuring, inviting the soul to wander for a spell in abysses of solitude; to lose itself in mazes of inward contemplation.   The voice of the sea speaks to the soul.   The touch of the sea is sensuous, enfolding the body in its soft, close embrace (Chopin 25).      In the novel, â€Å"the ocean symbolizes Edna's "awakening" to a life filled with freedom and independence† (Nickerson). On a hot summer evening Robert and Edna go bathing.   Although Edna does not wish to go and initially declines his offer, something inside is compelling her to go down to the water.   It is there in the seductive ocean that Edna's awakening begins.      A certain light was beginning to dawn dimly within her... [she] was beginning to realize her position in the universe as a human being and to recognize her relations as an individual to the world within and about her (Chopin 25).      That warm ocean environment is in direct contrast to the responsibilities and rules of the cold, hard city.   And it is there in that relaxed and   forgiving atmosphere that Edna can explore her new found freedoms.  Ã‚  Ã‚        Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   While relaxing on the beach with Mrs. Ratignolle, the sight of the endless ocean brings back memories from Edna's childhood.   She suddenly recalls a summer day in Kentucky and "a meadow that seemed as big as the ocean to the very little girl...and I felt as if I must walk on forever without coming to th... ... on, thinking of the bluegrass meadow...believing that it had no beginning and no end" (Chopin 190).   It is there in the ocean that she first realizes her physical, mental, and emotional potential. It is only natural that the water, which has seduced her with its sound reclaims her.    Throughout the story the ocean represented Edna's constant struggle for self-realization and independence.   From her first flow of emotion on the beach to her last breath of life in the sea, the ocean beckons her.   The voice of the sea lures her onward in her journey toward liberation and empowerment.    Works Cited Bloom, Harold. Kate Chopin. New York : Chelsea House Publishers, 1987. Chopin, Kate.   The Awakening.   1993: Bedford Books, New York. Nickerson, Meagan. "Romanticism in The Awakening", The Kate Chopin Project. America On-line. February 2000.   

The Shock of Sylvia Plaths Daddy :: Plath Daddy Essays

The Shock of Plath’s Daddy â€Å"Daddy† is one of the most highly anthologized poems of Plath's (along with "Lady Lazarus"). It is a notorious poem, the one once compared to "Guernica" by George Steiner. The imagery and audaciousness of it still shock, so much so that I don't even know if it is being taught or anthologized or taught any more; it is almost as if the critical world has had its say on it and has moved on, either to other poems in Ariel, or to other books altogether, such as The Colossus or Crossing The Water. It has become a modern classic, of a kind, the sort some people (not the ones here, of course!) sigh & look back on fondly, as what/who they read when they were younger, or were obliged to read at some point, dutifully used it in an essay, then put back on the shelf when they were done with the course... "Daddy" is a mean poem, brutal, but at bottom it is about mourning, loss, and what happens when that grief is blocked. I have always taken this as the real topic, that longing to forgive her father, forgive herself, to understand and accept - that was locked, denied, as a part of her childhood, adolescence, until she was 21 and visited (I am taking her literally) her father's grave for the first time. (This poem's essence lies in her not believing her father is dead, and since she never went to his funeral, or even visited his grave as a child, the father is in a strange limbo, a zombie figure.) In 1959 she visited her father's grave and was tempted, oddly as she says, to dig him up & prove to herself that he's really dead. In the poem, she just wants to be with her father (in the reading, her voice definitely becomes emotional when she remembers her childhood with him), or someone like him, but this never works out; in the end, she turns against him, but, as Stewart says, she can never be "through" - I think, because that sadness is again pushed aside, "the voices" (her father, husband, mother?) who still might be able to talk and listen to her are gone. Her father is still there, just as solid & historical as he was in "The Colossus", and just as misunderstood/inflated (two ways blocked grief seems to work).

Winning the Nguyen Thuong Hien Prize

You wont know what challenges come to your life in the future so you can only think what you had been through in the past. When I was a student in High School, I was a shy person; Just doing what my parents wanted me to do and never cared about what was happening around me until I was encouraged to participate in a contest. The Unguent Thong Hein Prize In presentation was the most Important event that changed my life. When I studied at 12th grade, I was a shy student, and I rarely open up to people. My teacher was frustrated about possibility of my collective activity in class.I thought that a good student Just had to get high score on my test, doing all my homework, and don't need to take extracurricular activities. These of things affect my school life, my teacher recognized that, and he advised me to change Into more confident person, and he recommended me the contest of Unguent Thong Helen prize where I had the opportunity to become an outgoing person. I thought about what my tea cher said to me when I came home, I ally wanted to become an active person and submitted an application to the organizers of this contest.My teacher and friends helped me to transform from a shy person to an outgoing person. My teacher instructed me how to overcome the fears that I have to face the crowd and advised me to practice many times in front of my classmates. My classmates also gave me advice how to improve so that I could do better when I practiced with them. In the contest, I did my speech. My presentation talked about friendship. After I finished presentation its implementation, I was reprise when the judges announced that I won the contest.I was so glad I have overcome fear to complete my speech smoothly. In conclusion, joining Unguent Thong Hein prize was a turning point made me into an adult's person. The prize helps me recognize that I'm more confident than the past; I'm starting to look after everyone around me. When I believe in myself, I can do anything what I wan t. That's why I decided to go to The United State to study after I graduated in my high school. Winning the Unguent Thong Hein Prize By Tom-cleverly Life is not simple.You won't know what challenges come to your life in the future so participate in a contest. The Unguent Thong Hein Prize in presentation was the most important event that changed my life. When I studied at 12th grade, I was a shy advised me to change into more confident person, and he recommended me the contest of Unguent Thong Hein prize where I had the opportunity to become an surprise when the Judges announced that I won the contest. I was so glad I have overcome fear to complete my speech smoothly.

Literary research

Nathan Furr finds many reasons for doing literary research.   He summarizes these to be â€Å"Experiencing the Other, learning compassion and service, gaining insight into ourselves, finding new ways of thinking, understanding and writing more clearly, and uncovering the joy of discovery and creation† (Furr, 3).   To these he also adds essentially, the power of literary research to combat misinformation.   Generally, Furr’s reasons are similar to my own; however, I would make some changes to his conclusions. Two of Furr’s claims with which I unequivocally agree are that literary research allows one the ability of â€Å"understanding and writing more clearly† as well as a major reason for literary research being â€Å"uncovering the joy of discovery and creation.† These two reasons are of key importance because the detective aspect of literary research is a large part of what makes it so appealing to me.   By extension, a pile of research serves little value even if the research was conducted merely out of my own curiosity because the compiling, organizing, and writing are all essential components in answering the initial question.   Without the writing forcing me to synthesize the facts I have discovered and draw coherent conclusions, the research itself as well as whatever conclusions I drew are more easily forgotten. The first reason Furr lists is â€Å"experiencing the Other.†Ã‚   While this does seem like a valuable reason, I would more likely phrase it as â€Å"expanding one’s world view.†Ã‚   At least for me, this broader category makes more sense.   In the example he gives about the man from Poland, I think not only do we get to see the world from his perspective, but through oral histories like this we gain a valuable insight into the time and place described.   Thinking of it as experiencing the Other feels uncomfortable to me in that it seems to separate the researcher from the research subject, and as I think Furr would agree, that distance is exactly what literary research often seeks to minimize. While Furr’s claim that literary research can aid in â€Å"finding new ways of thinking,† I had difficulty with his example of research for buying a computer.   At the end of this paragraph, he summarizes the process of research saying, â€Å"We start with a problem or question, being researching, follow leads, assemble materials, and then create a product† (Furr, 2).   I agree that this is how research is conducted; however, is that really finding a new way of thinking?   It seems more like gathering information to form a conclusion and it should thus be labeled something more like â€Å"providing information.† I think this is especially true because, aside from his example, literary research does not necessarily facilitate the discovery of new ways of thinking.   I think it is possible that one could research a topic and emerge with a legitimate conclusion or â€Å"product† but without any new way of thinking about the problem beyond having found a satisfactory conclusion.   Ideally, this would not be the case.   Anyone conducting literary research would discover a new way of seeing a problem, but I think it is too broad a generalization to assume that this is always true.   At any rate, I think if this is truly what Mr. Furr is asserting, it would fit better, for me, into the â€Å"expanding one’s world view† category. Furr also sees â€Å"gaining insight into ourselves† as another reason for doing literary research.   In describing this reason, Furr states that through literary research many people seek to essentially â€Å"unlocking what we have always known and affirming it to ourselves. (Furr, 2). This seems to be Furr’s most direct reference to researcher bias.   I found his lack of a full discussion of this topic to be a major shortcoming of his article.   True, research in it most basic form involves uncovering information, but the world—in literary and historical senses as well as many others—is a very complex web of thoughts, experiences, and interpretations. I would argue that there is no one Truth, and the belief in such a thing is naà ¯ve.   The most obvious case would be the Bible.   Many different people seek to use the Bible to support very different claims.   Often passages sighted are contradictory and can easily support conflicting contentions.   The literary researcher does uncover information, but what is uncovered is only part of the story.   Which part is uncovered is largely reliant upon the sources one utilizes. The selection of source is also a product of bias.   For example, I would not use a Hindi newspaper, nor would I look to an un-translated Mayan text.   These two can be seen as extremes because of linguistic inaccessibility, but in doing research we generally gravitate toward sources with which we are comfortable whether books, popular media, scholarly articles, newspapers, oral histories, or any number of available source material. Beyond comfort with sources, I think Furr’s assertion falters in that it does not explicitly take into account that researchers find what they seek.   This affirming of one’s own beliefs is key to researcher bias because, for example, people who want to claim that the Holocaust never happened, will do so regardless of any information others try to point out to them.   Further, they will conduct their own research and doubtless find material that supports their conclusion, however false that conclusion may seem to be. Furr discusses the power of misinformation, but fails to consider the fact that many people do research and come up with unpopular conclusions that fly in the face of nearly all other findings.   Simply because we know it happened, when looking at the issue of the Holocaust we can claim that people denying it existence are spreading misinformation, but with more complex issues, and issues for which there are not survivors, it becomes clear that one person’s misinformation can be another’s highly researched cutting-edge discovery.   It all depends on where you look and what you are hoping to find. Another of Furr’s reasons for literary research—learning compassion and service—seems a bit optimistic to me.   Of course, we would like to believe that knowledge conquers darkness, but again compassion is a highly subjective issue.   Many people research literature, science, and history either explicitly in search of or resulting in reasons to assert their own superiority and use to oppress others.   One example would be people who researched, and still do research, on the biological inferiority of minorities to perpetuate and legitimize racist practices.   Finding compassion in such research is difficult if not impossible. In terms of service though, I enjoyed Furr’s claim that research is an ethical action.   While again this statement seems a bit simplistic, I think the argument he quotes from Altick and Fenstermaker that literary research can serve to extend â€Å"the traditional boundaries of scholarly and critical interest† is a valid one (Furr, 2).   While I do find Furr’s claims to be optimistic, I agree that in the best-case scenarios they are both true and of extreme value, but it is important to highlight some possibilities for which his arguments do not seem to account. I do agree that there are many important reasons both personal and social to undertake literary research.   Perhaps the strongest impetus for doing research is curiosity, â€Å"is that so?   I’ll look it up.†Ã‚   On an individual level when someone makes a seemingly unrealistic claim, literary research is an important tool in satisfying curiosity and quelling argument. Investigating misinformation is also very valuable on a larger social level.   This calls to mind the Program on International Policy Attitudes 2003 study that surveyed Americans to determine their rate of misperception about three issues surrounding the Gulf War and found that 80% Fox News viewers held at least one of the misperceptions (PIPA, 13).   To me, this illustrates the importance of literary research more than any other example. If one accepts information from one source uncritically, then they are completely at the mercy of that source’s biases.   While I believe it is true that a researcher is limited by their own biases, at least those biases are their own.   Exposure to sources with different biases is important in opening up new avenues of inquiry, but undertaking literary research is vital to locating other biases and interpreting information provided by those sources.   Literary research then is the key to knowing not only one’s own mind, but understanding the minds of others, and thus one of the most valuable tools anyone can employ in developing intellectually, personally, and socially. Works Cited Furr, Nathan. Literary Research: The Importance of Process and Product. Kull, Steven. â€Å"Misperceptions, the Media, and the War in Iraq.† Pipa.com. 2 Oct. 2003. Program on International Policy Attitudes. 22 Dec. 2006 .   

Kudler and the True Meaning of Marketing

Use the Virtual Organization link on the student website to access additional company information on Kudler Fine Foods. Write a 1,050- to 1,400-word paper in which you justify the importance of marketing research in developing Kudler Fine Foods’ marketing strategy and tactics. Include the following: Identify the areas where additional market research is needed. Analyze the importance of competitive intelligence and analysis regarding the development of Kudler Fine Foods’ marketing strategy and tactics. A marketing analysis conducted for the Kudler Fine Foods to obtain a complete and comprehensive review of the potential the organizational strategic plan of Kudler fine foods from, marketing view points and, customer viewpoints. Also going through the marketing strategies of Kudler will allow an understanding of the company's competitiveness within the organization and with other known business like Kudler fine foods. This will allow us to tell the weather or not Kudler fine foods is a reliable and successful company or if it needs major improvements to keep up with the standards set forth by the competitors. Kudler Fine Foods has a strong self-driven and determined market and work place. Some ways they make themselves a great part of the exclusive market of fine foods. Some of Kudler’s ways Kudler makes this possible is by the expertise that is given with the gourmet setting at all the locations from the wine to the cheeses and other fine foods. Kudler went over and beyond to make sure the expertise was carried out by the use of the surveys they had customers and visitors to complete in 2010 and 2011. According to these surveys, Kudler showed strengths and weakness that they hold above the competitors are the outstanding customer relations and the enormous selection of the world’s best fine foods. The gourmet food was satisfactory for the money that was spent and appreciated by the majority of their customers. The high quality food for the right price and how the right price is deterred is another fine example of the marketing research. Some weaknesses of Kudler is indicated in the same customer surveys that where received these included the marketing Kudler uses for customer service and the display of the merchandise. In this instance Kudler can easily change the way it displays the merchandise and make the displays more attractive to make the equally appeal the intended customers. This Is a great example of when Kudler needs to do marketing research to help find answers and resources to fix the problems. Excellent customer service is Kudler’s primary focus this was noticed by the majority of the customers that responded to the surveys. It is impossible to please everyone and Kudler knows this, but is striving to do the best job possible. A possible way to change the outlook of some Kathy Kudler could retrain her staff by reminding them of the importance of Kudler’s customers and the service they are given when visiting Kudler fine foods. It is with the upmost importance that business need to remember is that customer service is and should be to upmost priority in a prospering business. Without excellent customer service is it impossible to have a high achieving company like Kudler fine foods Kudler Fine Foods is an astonishing company with the highest goals in providing the upmost best in customer satisfaction to the extent of the capabilities of the gourmet superstar. Kudler is dedicated to making everyone’s experience the best possible. When at Kudler’s they make sure if you can’t find it in the store that they find a way to find it for you. Keeping this in mind Kudler fine foods is a highly competitive business structure with some of the best priorities that there could be. Kudler can and will be a highly remarkable company in the future as long as they keep up the importance of outstanding customer service and relations. Also it is a must that Kudler keeps up with the changing demand structures in the economy to keep a large supply of the demanded goods. With excellent service and an excellent inventory this company will prosper and grow. A Kudler fine food has a mild marketing approach at some point it may be necessary to change the marketing approach to meet the demand of the company and the sales. Keeping a close eye on the market and its competitors is a must. Some down falls of Kudler fine foods could be the focus on the surveys. Lowering the drive for the surveys could help ease some of the customer’s feedback, but with this in mind it may be a necessary to keep the comfort of the customers. Keeping customer satisfaction is a must. At the same time and can be over done in the ways the company harps on the surveys. One possible way of correcting this issue is to simply ask in person if there are any concerns or anything they would like to see. Another way this can be achieved is to have a comment box on the company web site and in the stores. This could be a nonchalant way of getting the information needed without harassing the customers with bothersome surveys. For the most part customers do only gripe or complain if something is wrong. On the other side of this note many customers will let you know if you ask, but the way this is asked can be done in other ways. Some companies use marketing schemes at the checkout such as promotions and bugging customers with questions at checkout this is not always the way to do things though. This type of conduct can annoy and bother customers. An annoyed customer is most likely not going to come back unless they just half to. Keeping competitive and treating customers with the best of care is a quality that is lacking in society and the business community today. Kudler fine food is well on its way to setting the mild stone of the customer relations world. Keeping this standard along with the highest competitive prices and outstanding selection of gourmet foods will drive this company in a good and prosperous direction. References American Marketing Association. (2013). marketing power. Retrieved from http://www.marketingpower.com/AboutAMA/Pages/DefinitionofMarketing.aspx Business Dictionary. (2013). business dictionary meaning of marketing. Retrieved from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/marketing.html#ixzz2R

Europe between Wars 1919-1939 and European Crisis Assignment

Europe between Wars 1919-1939 and European Crisis - Assignment Example The Weimar Republic had to face and go through a severe economic fall in the first years of the decade because of the debt and the reparations caused by the War and the Treaty of Versailles, which culminated in 1923 with the devaluation of the Mark (the currency). Communism attracted many followers after the October Revolution and the Russian Civil War, and so communists (Bolsheviks) adopted a policy of mixed economies in the period between 1921 and 1928. Fascist movement as a response and a solution for the prevention of the communism spread in many countries in Europe, with Germany having the leading role. This period was believed to be the third period of anxiety for Europe (the previous two that could be compared in intensity with this one being the one of the ancient world and the Reformation). Totalitarianism as a concept in political theory arose in the XX century. Although there are slight differences and variations among totalitarian regimes, the chief characteristics of totalitarianism are: a) Totalitarian regime encompasses the whole of the society, and authoritarian government, as a variation focuses only on governance. For a regime to be considered totalitarian, government and society must be closely intertwined and there is only one political party; b) Totalitarianism holds strict government control of the media which is to be used only as a means of propaganda; c) There is no personal liberty in cultural, political and artistic expression among the people; d) People must be utterly devoted to the state and must never criticize the government or any of its segments as they and their whole families may "disappear" or end up in prison as "political" prisoners. e) Nazism and Fascism are considered totalitarian regimes of the right, while Stalinism is the totalitarianism of the left.

Sustainable Tourism Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Sustainable Tourism - Research Paper Example This forms of tourism, in which foreign people visits other places for leisure and exploration. 2. Supporting the protection of natural areas by generating economic benefits for host communities, providing alternative employment and income opportunities for local communities and increasing awareness towards the conservation of natural and cultural assets. Ecotourism and sustainable tourism are both inclined in traveling and exploration of beautiful places all over the world. But ecotourism focuses on the conservation and sustainability of our environment, where it should be nurtured, preserved and cared for a sustainable biosphere. The consideration to the environment is much given emphasis in ecotourism. On the other hand, sustainable tourism focused on line with the continuous process and application of more travels and tourisms. It ideally uses the resources for national growth. What it considers is the development t of the society and economic status of the State. Assessment 3 Hunter (1995) define sustainable tourism as the basis of the definition of sustainability in the Brundtland Report as follows: Sustainable Tourism Development (STD) should consider these concerns: 1. meet the needs and wants of the local host community in terms of improved living standards and quality of life. Here he possesses that the state and the people should have progress in living. 2. Satisfy the demands of tourists and the tourism industry, and continue to attract them in order to meet the first aim; and, - The state should make sure that their tourist spots should satisfy the visitors, and continuously attract more and more and encourage them to come back. 3. Safeguard the environmental resource base for tourism, encompassing natural, built and cultural components; in order to achieve both the preceding aims. - there should be planning's to attain and assurance o have this place favorable universally. Assessment 4 Swarbrooke criticize the sustainable tour

Hedge funds Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Hedge funds - Essay Example The term "hedge fund" involves any pooled investment medium that is (1) organized in private, (2) directed by experienced and professional investment managers, and (3) not accessible to the public. Hedge funds are supported by rich personalities and institutional investors who are regarded as primary investors. Other investors include (1) endowment funds, (2) pension plans, (3) funds of funds, and (4) retail investors. (Boyle, 2007) Other bodies characterized as hedge funds are systematic and limited partnerships and liability companies or most commonly reside outside the United States. (President's on Working Group on Financial Markets, 1999) Hedge fund originated in 1949. By 1968, 140 hedge funds were operating as reported by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Within the last 20 years, hedge fund industry bloomed and become common in the U.S. market. According to Phelim Boyle (2007), in the year 1990, a total number of 610 funds are controlling $39 billion worth of assets. By 2000, there were 3,873 funds directing $490 billion assets. The estimated size of the hedge fund industry in mid-1998 was in the range of 2,500 and 3,500 hedge funds controlling between $200 and $300 billion worth of capital, totaling more or less $800 up to $1 trillion in total assets. As compared with other U.S. financial market sectors, hedge funds are relatively small. ... (President's on Working Group on Financial Markets, 1999) The Marko Maslakovic (2008) reports that despite the existence of market destabilizations, the hedge fund industry continued to grow in management assets and the number and type of institutions investing in hedge funds. For the assets under management, the hedge fund for this category amounted to over $2,250 billion in the end of 2007. Figure 1 shows the trend of global hedge funds in relation to their assets under management. The number of hedge funds reached over 11,000 in 2007 or 12 percent increase from the previous year (2006). The presence of the increasing credit crisis and increased market volatility did not hinder hedge funds assets from growing by 30 percent in 2007. Hedge funds did not incur any significant influence on the credit crisis because only 5 percent of their assets were examined in mortgage-backed securities in September 2007. Boyle (2007) mentions six (6) reasons for the hedge funds growth: (1) technological innovations, (2) derivatives revolution, (3) special ization, (4) increase of market complexities such as catastrophe bonds and structured products, (5) recent poor market equity performance, and (6) low interest rates. Figure 1 For the distribution of hedge funds in the world, reports of Maslakovic (2008) show that the United States is the major source of hedge fund investments with 67 percent of the total hedge funds assets in 2007. Europe and Asia are the next large sources with 22 percent and 7 percent shares respectively. New York City is the world's leading city for hedge managers and it is followed by London. In New York, around 60 percent of hedge fund managers are stationed in this city.

U.S economiy Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

U.S economiy - Term Paper Example Discussion Price instabilities have also been a common feature in the housing sector of the country as caused by such factors as poor government policies and the periodic boom and bust cycles in the economy. The current prevailing housing model therefore suffers over stretching by the need to address the raising instabilities within prices of the house facilities. The model is characterized of adverse shortages, which has passed on the effect even to the social rented housing facilities besides having implications to the private sector of housing market. The private sector therefore suffers shortage and fails to meet the ever-increasing housing needs for the surging population. In fact, according to a report on WSJ by Timiraos, the market of houses has seen a rise in the last years and this is currently witnessed by very high prices today (Timiraos, para 1). Over years, the governments in the international scene have been subjects of discussion in their role in intervening in the hou sing market with critical analysis of the same revealing different arguments. The supporters of the initiatives of government in policy to intervene in the housing market cite accompanying benefits while the critics question the authority and benefits resultant from such interventions. Concerns raised in the past have cited government’s intervention to lead to undesirable outcomes in the end as compared to the little benefits that are accrued to specific target groups/persons. Governments intervene in the housing market through different mechanisms, which include offering subsidies to the developers, injecting credit facilities into the market to support potential homebuyers to access the required amounts as well as through designing and implementation of government policies to address the issue. Besides the introduction of ‘temporal home purchase’ credit facilities within the economy, the government equally uses policy tools for asymmetric tax treatment of renta l houses as well as to owner occupied housing. However, the application of these different policy instruments has accompanying advantages as well as disadvantages in the overall outcome to the economy. Intervention in the US has often focused on lowering or operating the house prices in order to target the majority residents who are potential homeowners but due to financial constraints, they are not in a position. Many questions therefore arise on the implications and strategic necessity to have the government intervene in the housing sector. Questions revolve around the implications of the intervention in that government intervention would alter the free market price balance while on the other hand; intervention would reduce the risk of price crash in the housing market. Recession has the potential to decline the consumer wealth as well as negative equity in the sector (Dougherty, Timiraos and Shah, para 1). Moreover, the intervention by the government has the capacity to reduce th e price volatility of houses which if not addressed has the potential to lead to a price crash within the economy. The critics reasons that house price fall have no empirical justification to cause recession within the economy. This therefore refutes the position by the arguments of the supporter of government intervention to reduce the risks of price recession. According to the critics, government intervention would not lead to control of price volatility, which is likely