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Wednesday, December 25, 2019
Climate Change And Its Effects On The Environment - 842 Words
Climate change impacts are not new issues nowadays. Many scholars had identified some phenomena that show the occurrence climate change. For instance the increases of Earthââ¬â¢s temperature, the significant records of sea level rise, which threaten mostly on Small Island developing states, extreme weather that cause the shifting season, and drought events. Basically, impacts of climate change cannot be avoided. However as intellectual creatures, humans are expected to be able to take actions in minimizing its impacts. In addition, people need to understand the context of climate change impacts on certain locations over time, and how the local systems work before implementing the climate change adaptation and mitigation actions because these actions could not be generalized to be applied on all conditions. Due to these actions depends on the local context, therefore, I belief that it is necessary to understand about the concept of climate change comprehensively as well as its adap tation and mitigation actions in order to enhance our capacity to deal with the climate changeââ¬â¢s consequences. Climate change issues in Indonesia Reflects to Indonesia context, as located on the pacific ring of fire, it causes Indonesia facing the high risk of natural hazards. Also, the climate change impacts threat Indonesia as an archipelago nation. Human activities, however, exacerbate its impacts through urbanization, deforestation, and land clearance for example. Frequently flood and drought eventsShow MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment Essay1268 Words à |à 6 PagesOCEAN ACIDIFICATION Smog, contaminated water, melting of snow packs. These are some of impacts that Climate Change has had on the Earth over the past years. All of these are product of the increase in carbon dioxide emissions by humans and their polluting activities. Since the Industrial Revolution, these events have escalated and, they have been becoming more noticeable and prolonged across the globe. Some of these events are more palpable and pronounced in certain parts of the hemisphere. For exampleRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment1445 Words à |à 6 Pagescooler climates all are impacts of increasing temperatures that are happening right now. Within the next century, sea levels will rise 7 - 23 inches, Storms will become much stronger, floods/droughts will become more common, and many, many other negative environmental changes (Cook). These changes in the environment have been the topic of debate for decades, but has become more and more common over the past few years. On one side of the debate, there are the people who believe climate changeRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment1506 Words à |à 7 Pagesthe amount of damage that has been done to the environment is due to this current generation and the problem I will be focusing on is climate change. Climate change is an issue that has been present for many years, but we are just now deciding to stand up and try to fix things. The problem at hand is whether or not itââ¬â¢s too late to undo the destruction thatââ¬â¢s already been done. Is this damage too critical that it cannot be corrected? Climate change is an environmental issue that is reversible, theRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment1217 Words à |à 5 Pagesrisks of climate change, but many others are unaware of the problem, unsure of the facts or what to do, do not trust experts or believe their conclusions, think the problem is elsewhere, are fixed in their ways, believe that others should act, or believe that their actions will make no difference or are unimportant compared to those of others. II. â⬠¢ An individual level of analysis is relevant for understanding the impacts of climate change and the ways individuals adapt to climate change becauseRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment1055 Words à |à 5 PagesClimate change has become a major issue in todayââ¬â¢s society. Coming from the rise of Greenhouse Gas emissions and changing temperature caused human developments, world leaders and organisations are working on ways to combat the problem. This includes taking steps towards renewable energy and a cleaner future. Although, human activity is not the sole cause to the rising earthââ¬â¢s temperatures. Besides are use of greenhouse gases and fossil fuels, natural Influences including the current El Nià ±o periodRead MoreClimate Change And Its Effect On The Environment Essay1348 Words à |à 6 Pages Tying this back to climate change, it the levels of these salt marshes are affected by the rise in seawater. However, if the cordgrass and marsh hay experience more or less stress from higher or lower tides than they are used to, the soils within each area will be disturbed. The higher the sea level rises, the more tides increase in number as well as speed. If the tides speed up and become more frequent, it is possible that this could dislodge newly planted seeds and disturb the populations increasingRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment906 Words à |à 4 PagesClimate is consistent behavior of temperature, precipitation, humidity, atmospheric pressure and other related environmental factors. Around the globe, temperature a re climbing, sea levels are rising, and season are changing, which means that climate change is transforming our Earth. Climate change indicates negative consequences on the impact to humanity and on the factors of the climate system. By climate change the most endangered is atmosphere, because it changes the composition of uncontrolledRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Enviro nment1188 Words à |à 5 PagesDue to recent climate change the environment has been impacted in many ways. Climate Change is a change in global or regional climate patterns attributed largely to the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fuels (Oxford Dictionary). Scientists have studied the impacts it s having on the environment such as temperature rising, sea level rising, and increase in natural disasters. Climate change has only affected us in the 20 years due to the increase in factoriesRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment Essay954 Words à |à 4 Pagesthat the reason for the heat range change is man made pollution. The alleged cause of this climatic change is the development of carbon dioxide, which blocks solar heat and keeps it from radiating out of the weather. Carbon footprint is a way to evaluate the effect that human actions have on the surroundings through the exhaust of green house gas, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and chlorofluorocarbon are associated with environment changes and have an effect on the entire atmosphere. SpecificallyRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On The Environment Essay1916 Words à |à 8 PagesBarack Obama and other World Leaders secured a global agreement to fight against climate change. President Obama strives to lessen global emissions by the end of the century and to alleviate the amount of fossil fuels that are being burned in our atmosphere. Society has been affecting our environment by burning fossil fuels and decreasing the amount of greenhouse gases. The changing climate has affected the environment in many ways. The Earthââ¬â¢s water systems have been thrown off balance, there are
Monday, December 16, 2019
The Death Penalty Should Be Abolished - 1312 Words
I do not agree with this statement. Given the conditions presented there is no moral reason to continue using the death penalty. In this case the death penalty cannot be said to be optimific (producing the best result) unless you hold the value of justice ahead of the value of society. To argue for this perspective requires an extremely skewed perception of value and if, as I will show, the death penalty provides no tangible benefit to society its use should be discontinued. Consequentialism states ââ¬Å"an action is morally required just because it produces the best overall resultsâ⬠(Shafer-Laundau 121). If we look at the expected results of the death penalty versus its actual consequences then it cannot be said to be optimific. In theâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦If, as the utilitarian argument suggests, the death penalty does not work to deter crime and may in fact increase crime overall then it cannot be said to be producing the best result. As that is the case, there is no moral reason to use the death penalty. By continuing to do so the state is essentially executing people for no reason. Kant would also take issue with the reasoning behind this application of the death penalty. Kant s calls for autonomy and rationality are violated by the utilitarian idea that the value of the death penalty as a deterrent or threat to potential criminals makes it worth enforcing. This could be said to be a manipulation of the populace. Kant would argue that people should not obey the law because they fear the death penalty, but because it is the right thing to do. Kant also called for dignity and respect. What he called ââ¬Å"the principle of humanity: Always treat a human being (yourself included) as an end and never a mere means.â⬠(Shafer-Landau 174). Since this utilitarian argument for the death penalty calls for the deaths of deserving criminals to be used as a deterrent, it does just the opposite. Using the death of anyone (even a criminal) is dehumanizing. Reducing a person to a thing or, worse, a mere symbol. The
Sunday, December 8, 2019
Data Science for Rising Management Relationship
Questions: 1. What is Data Science? 2. What is the value of petabyte storage? 3. What are the 7 vs mentioned in the paper? Briefly describe each V in one paragraph. Answers: (1). Term Data Science The term Data science is a rising management, which permits relationship to get enterprise regard from huge records. Percent of data in world nowadays has been build in past 2 years A complete ninety percent of the data within the whole world has been created over in the last 2 years.Web-based associations are awash through data which can be utilized, as well as, grouped. (2). Value of the petabyte storage Store a variety of data right here at Mozy, but what sum is that in reality? Installation of this route and motion of the factors of interest to help the user to see precisely the degree of information that in reality is admired (Abdullah Zhuge, 2015). Course Description They offer Master of data science and Information which is completed within twenty months course, but some other options they offers are course of Research Design course, Application course for the Data, as well as, Analysis Exploring or Analyzing Data. (3). Summary Motivation of a author in this article is to find out how large statistics has indicated the parcel of the potential within true enterprise and examination institution. Bolster force, as well as, functionality of it in tackling true problems. However, it's miles fundamental to peer massive statistics through the attitude of 7 Vs. Seventh V as `value' is coveted yield for enterprise problems and troubles. Provide a brief have a look at the investigation of 7 Vs of big information retaining in mind the stop purpose to look massive information and concentrate price concept traditionally. At final author provides finish up with the aid of demonstrating imaginative and prescient of improved human services, result of the big data usage, as a destiny paintings for experts and understudies, even as advancing ("Applying volunteer MapReduce platform to assist search and rescue operations", 2014). 7 Vs mentioned Volume: Volume is exactly what it appears like bunches of statistics. Velocity Takes place wherein the data is time-sensitive and have to be dealt with and positioned away rapidly. Variety: Covers one-of-a-kind structures which information can also take, from the flawlessly organised undeniable information, to maintain unstructured information having matters, as an instance, photographs, messages, spreadsheets. Validity: The translated records having a valid premise in the explanation or fact is an also aftereffect of a wise derivations from coordinating facts. A standout among the most extensively identified mistakes being a secrecy among connection, as well as, causation. Veracity: The Adjustment to the realities; exactness will require the spell checker and to get records consistency (Tang Dai, 2013). Value: Significance, well-worth, and convenience of records to the ones expending it is probably the most pertinent to associations. Visibility: The circumstance of getting the ability to peer or be visible is recommended. Statistics from divergent sources have to be sewed collectively wherein they may be unmistakable to the innovation stack making up huge records . Big Data can improvise health-care sector Big data in medicinal offerings alludes to digital well-being information units so widespread, as well as, complicated that they're tough to cope with conventional programming and device; nor could they be capable of being results easily handled standard or regular information administration apparatuses and strategies (Tiwari, 2011). Big data within social insurance is overpowering as a result of its extent in addition to in the view of an assorted qualities of various information sorts, as well as, the charge at which IT has to be seen. Totality of the facts recognised with affected person social insurance, as well as, prosperity make "big records" in the medicinal services industry (Brady, Kapur, Summers, Thompson, 2013). It includes scientific information from CPOE and scientific choice emotionally supportive networks; tolerant statistics in EPRs; device data, for instance, from checking important signs; on line networking posts, for instance Twitter sustains, websites, notices o n the Facebook and one of a kind levels, and pages; and much less affected person-unique facts, along with disaster care information, news bolsters, and articles in medicinal journals.fitness facts quantity is relied upon to grow to be drastically within the years beforehand. What is more, medicinal offerings compensation fashions are converting; vital make use of and pay for execution are rising as fundamental new figures cutting-edge human offerings surroundings. Regardless of the truth that advantage is not and ought now not be a crucial notion, it's miles essentially essential for social coverage institutions to comfy the accessible devices, base, and approaches to persuade good sized records successfully otherwise hazard losing conceivably a big wide variety of dollars in income and benefits. By way of digitising, consolidating and efficiently utilising vast records, social insurance institutions going from unmarried-doctor places of work and multi-provider gatherings to large health centre systems and responsible attention associations stand to acknowledge critical benefits (Carnero, 2015). References Abdullah, A. Zhuge, Q. (2015). From Relational Databases to NoSQL Databases: Performance Evaluation. RJASET, 11(4), 434-439.Applying volunteer MapReduce platform to assist search and rescue operations. (2014). Ces. Brady, G., Kapur, N., Summers, J., Thompson, H. (2013). A case study and critical assessment in calculating power usage effectiveness for a data centre. Energy Conversion And Management, 76, 155-161. Carnero, M. (2015). Assessment of Environmental Sustainability in Health Care Organizations. Sustainability, 7(7), 8270-8291. Dernbach, J. Mintz, J. (2011). Environmental Laws and Sustainability: An Introduction. Sustainability, 3(12), 531-540.
Sunday, December 1, 2019
Looking for Free Pics for your Content Here Are 6 Great Free Stock Image Sites
When you only have a few seconds to grab peopleââ¬â¢s attention, images and photos can help your content stand out in a big way. Our brains can process visual information much faster than text, and content with images receives much more engagement than content without. Copyright infringement and the resulting legal hassles pose a real risk to marketers searching for great visuals. To avoid these issues you usually need to buy images from relable stock photo companies. But if your budget is tight, here are a few sources of free, legally-available images for you to tap when needed. 1. Flickr Creative Commons Stock images are usually available under a Creative Commons license, which allows for the free distribution of copyrighted material.Flickr makes locating images with this type of license easy. Go to Flickrââ¬â¢s advanced search, enter a keyword and narrow your search by your chosen Creative Commons license type ââ¬âmost of the time, youââ¬â¢ll find exactly what you need.Just make sure you give your free pics the proper attribution when you use them. 2. Unsplash This site only adds 10 new images every 10 days, but these royalty-free photos are usually spectacular. The photos here have a realness and honesty that you donââ¬â¢t always find with stock images. Youââ¬â¢ll probably find yourself browsing through the site long after you found the image you needed. 3. New Old Stock This site contains a curated selection of photos from the Flickr Commons ââ¬â a repository of photos from institutions all over the world that have no known copyright restrictions.Not to be confused with Creative Commons, the Flickr Commons contains photos that are old enough to be part of the public domain or belong to an agency that have granted its permission for use. New Old Stock shows you the best of these images. If youââ¬â¢re looking for something a bit different, try this amazing collection by web designer and artist Ryan McGuire.His quirky photos are free and require no attribution ââ¬â just donââ¬â¢t try to sell or submit his free pics to another photography site as your own. 5. Death to the Stock Photo Donââ¬â¢t worry ââ¬â the creators of this innovative service donââ¬â¢t really want to kill off stock photography.Instead, they want to do away with the stereotype of mediocre, uninspiring stock images. Users who sign up for Death to the Stock Photoââ¬â¢s email list will get new stock photos delivered to their inbox each month. Their license system is similar to Creative Common, and they do a good job explaining it in plain English on their website. 6. Jay Mantri This California-based designer and photographer adds new images to his site every week. Mantri tends to favor black-and-white photos, and his images rarely feature people ââ¬â youââ¬â¢re free to choose any image from the site and do what you please with it.In addition to sharing his own free pics, Mantri also suggests new photographers to follow on Instagram each week. Low Cost Premium Images These sources will help you track down the free pics and photos you need to make your content more eye-catching and engaging.But free stock images to fit your content arenââ¬â¢t always easy to find or they are more likely to be overused. If youââ¬â¢re looking for high-quality images that are the perfect fit with your content at a low cost, Constant Content offers a catlog of over 70 million premium images through a partnership with Shutterstock for less than buying through Shutterstock directly.
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
The Origins of Memorial Day
The Origins of Memorial Day Memorial Day is celebrated in the United States each May to remember and honor military men and women who died while serving in the nations armed forces. This differs from Veterans Day, which is celebrated in September to honor everyone who served in the U.S. military, whether or not they died in service. From 1868 through 1970, Memorial Day was celebrated on May 30th each year. Since then, the official national Memorial Day holiday is traditionally celebrated on the last Monday in May. Origins of Memorial Day On May 5, 1868, three years after the end of the Civil War, Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR)- an organization of former Union soldiers and sailors- established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The cemetery already held the remains of 20,000 Union dead and several hundred Confederate dead.Ã Presided over by General and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant and other Washington officials, the Memorial Day ceremonies centered around the mourning-draped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of General Robert E. Lee. After speeches, children from the Soldiers and Sailors Orphan Home and members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns. Was Decoration Day Really the First Memorial Day? While General John A. Logan credited his wife, Mary Logan, with the suggestion for the Decoration Day commemoration, local springtime tributes to the Civil War dead had previously taken place. One of the first occurred in Columbus, Mississippi, on April 25, 1866, when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well.Today cities in the North and the South claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day between 1864 and 1866. Both Macon and Columbus, Georgia, claim the title, as well as Richmond, Virginia. The village of Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, also claims to be the first. A stone in a cemetery in Carbondale, Illinois, the wartime home of General Logan, carries the statement that the first Decoration Day ceremony took place there on Ap ril 29, 1866. Approximately twenty-five places have been named in connection with the origin of Memorial Day, many of them in the South where most of the war dead were buried. Official Birthplace Declared In 1966, Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, New York, the birthplace of Memorial Day. A local ceremony held on May 5, 1866, was reported to have honored local soldiers and sailors who had fought in the Civil War. Businesses closed and residents flew flags at half-mast. Supporters of Waterloos claim say earlier observances in other places were either informal, not community-wide or one-time events. Confederate Memorial Day Many Southern states also have their own days for honoring the Confederate dead. Mississippi celebrates Confederate Memorial Day the last Monday of April, Alabama on the fourth Monday of April, and Georgia on April 26th. North and South Carolina observe it May 10th, Louisiana on June 3rd and Tennessee calls that date Confederate Decoration Day. Texas celebrates Confederate Heroes Day January 19th and Virginia calls the last Monday in May Confederate Memorial Day. Learn the Stories of Your Military Ancestors Memorial Day began as a tribute to Civil War dead, and it was not until after World War I that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars.Ã The origins of special services to honor those who die in war can be found in antiquity. The Athenian leader Pericles offered a tribute to the fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War over 24 centuries ago that could be applied today to the 1.1 million Americans who have died in the nations wars: Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men. What a fitting reminder to all of us to learn about and tell the stories of our military ancestors who died in service. How to Trace Your U.S. Military AncestorsAre You Descended from a Civil War Soldier?Discover Your American WWI AncestorsResearch Your Revolutionary War Patriot AncestorSymbols, Acronyms Abbreviations Found on Military Tombstones Portions of the above article courtesy of the U.S. Veterans Administration
Friday, November 22, 2019
7 Steps to Getting Enough Sleep in College
7 Steps to Getting Enough Sleep in College Theres a reason most college students sleep in whenever they have the chance: theyre exhausted, sleep-deprived, and in desperate need of some sleep at any given time. And yet, finding time to sleep in college can be quite challenging. Sleep is often the first thing to get cut when stress levels and workloads pile up. So just how can you find time to sleep in college? 7 Steps to Getting Enough Sleep in College Step #1: Do your best to make sure you get a certain amount every night. This one is admittedly common sense, but theres a reason why its listed first. If you get 7 hours on Monday, 2 hours on Tuesday, etc., this pattern can wreak havoc on your bodys (and minds) ability to really rest and recover as you sleep. Getting a decent and consistent amount of sleep each night is your best bet for not feeling exhausted during your entire 4 (or 5 or 6) years of college. Try to set up a sleep pattern that works for your schedule and do your best to stick to it. Step #2:à Take naps. The reality of college life, of course, often gets in the way of the previous suggestion. So what can you do? Take naps, whether they be 20-minute power naps or a nice, 2-hour nap between classes in the afternoon. The sleep will let you rest and recover while still allowing you to take on the remainder of your day. Step #3:à Exercise. Besides keeping you healthy, exercise helps you sleep better. While your schedule may be packed, finding time to exercise is easier than you think and can definitely help increase your energy level and decrease your exhaustion. Step #4:à Eat well. Also in the I know I should do that, but ... category, eating well can help make your sleep more restful and productive. Think about how you feel if you eat a good breakfast, a healthy lunch, and a not-too-crazy dinner. Eating well makes during your waking hours, and the same applies to your sleeping hours. Healthier meals really do mean healthier sleep. Choose wisely! Step #5:à Dont pull all-nighters. Yes, the dreaded all-nighter is a rite of passage for many, if not most, college students. Yet they are positively dreadful on your body (and mind and spirit and everything else). Do your best to figure out how not to procrastinate in the first place so you dont have to pull all-nighters during your time in school. Step #6:à Make sure your sleep is restful. Falling asleep with the TV on, the lights on, your roommates music on, and tons of people popping in and out all night may look like a normal night for you but it is not a normal and healthy way to get restful sleep each night. Sleeping in a non-restful environment can sometimes leave you feeling more sleepy than refreshed in the morning, so do your best to make sure that when you go to sleep you can actually, you know, sleep. Step #7:à Watch your caffeine intake. College life requires a lot of energy which sometimes means that students walk around drinking coffee all day, every day. But that cup of coffee you drank after dinner may very well keep you up until breakfast tomorrow. Try to avoid having too much caffeineà during the later hours of the day so that you can actually rest (instead of fight the last of your caffeine buzz) when you finally go to sleep at night.
Thursday, November 21, 2019
Animal Cruelty Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words
Animal Cruelty - Research Paper Example From the report it is clear thatà animal issue is a very important issue as it contributes to the much needed development of medicines that save human life. But the same time the quality of life when it comes to the animals used in the experiments is adversely affected. The animals suffer prolonged pain, they are alienated from their natural ecosystems and therefore forced to lead normal lives. What this means is that animalsââ¬â¢ rights are grossly violated when they are usedà experimentally; they are separated from their natural ecosystems, denied their inherent rights suchà as that to mate and chose mates as well as to choose what to eat and not. Many of the animals used in experiments end up losing their lives in the process. It raises an important issue i.e. if it is not right cause suffering for animals then animal experimentation results in moral problems that are serious.This essay highlights thatà it is a very important global issue especially considering the ri se in terminal illnesses requiring new types of medication. Scientists and medics the world over are busy in search for medicines that can cure conditions such HIV AIDS, cancer, hepatitis B and many other deadly conditions that have no sure cure. This means a lot of research and experimentation is on-going globally and therefore use of animals for testing of drug efficacy. As for my audience the topic is particularly important as it involves important of morality and ethics in treating animals. Animals for instance have rights to live in their natural wild environments, reproduce and lead better lives.Ã
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
Integrating the Bible in the High School Curriculum Essay
Integrating the Bible in the High School Curriculum - Essay Example This essay stresses that the America of today that is rent by crime and heathen practices is only reflecting the Bible-less policy of years in the recent past, but if the Bible is integrated into the school curriculum now, the America of the next few decades could evolve into a better place, with a greater focus on moral and ethical values rather than hedonistic values that have led to substance abuse. This paper makes a conclusion that there are two major reasons why integrating the Bible into the school curriculum may not only be an excellent option, but may actually be necessary. On the one hand, the Bible is a valuable source of academic learning and would enrich the educational experiences of young people if introduced into the curriculum. It would allow students to explore a fascinating range of historical events and classical literature. Secondly, it would inculcate within them the values of love and forgiveness and bring discipline and focus into their lives through the teaching of moral and ethical values. The Bible contains a wealth of stories that offer profound insights into human nature, and have spawned many offshoots in literature. On an overall basis, student understanding and appreciation of classical literature would be enhanced if the Bible is introduced into the school curriculum. Religious and spiritual instruction that focuses upon the teaching of ethical and moral values through the Bible can only enrich the character of students.
Sunday, November 17, 2019
Bruce Dawe Poem Analysis Essay Example for Free
Bruce Dawe Poem Analysis Essay Decode the question: How has the composer represented the concept of heroism in the film Gladiator? Make specific reference to two key scenes in the film. You MUST NOT choose scenes which have been analysed already in the course work (i.e. scenes I-III, XI-XIII, and XXVI). Write approximately 1000 words. Select Two key scenes: XXXI -Maximus has defeated the greatest gladiator ever to fight XLVI The Final Battle Create a mind map Organise ideas, texts references: Summary, presentation of Heroic concept, references to 2 keyed scenes with quotes notes Draft Do the draft as needed above Edit draft Edit as necessary Submit draft in Final written essay The Essay: Maximus was a powerful Roman General (strong belief, inner strength never dies, stood up for his belief no matter the consequences), loved by the people and the aging Emperor, Marcus Aurelius, known in history as the final of the Five Good Emperors. Before his death, the Emperor chose Maximus to be his heir over his own son, Commodus in an attempt to allow Rome to once more become a Republic. Then a power struggle left Maximus and his family condemned to death. The powerful General was unable to save his family, and his loss let him captured and put into slavery and trained as a Gladiatorà by Proximo until he died. The only desire that fueled him at the time was the chance to rise to the top so that he would be able to look into the eyes of the man who would feel his revenge and fulfill the dying wish of his emperor. The time came when Proximos troupe was called to Rome to participate in a marathon of gladiator games held at the behest of the new emperor, Commodus. Once in Rome, Maximus wasted no time in making his presence known, and was soon involved in a plot to overthrow the emperor with his former-love Lucilla, Commodus sister, after whom he lusted, and also the widowed mother of Lucius, heir to the empire after his uncle, and democratic-minded senator, Gracchus was reinstated for Rome to republic. The composer has set up the representation of the heroism concept (50-60%) throughout the Gladiator film, from the opening scene, when the Hero leaves his pleasant vision (his wife and child) to return to the Germania battle field and to: face the 1st execution 1st fight as a gladiator release his name fight against the greatest warrior face Commodus fight in the Final battle As the opening scene and the above listed 3 scenes where the heroic concept has been discussed in the course work, the responder can also find the concept of heroism in the fight against the greatest gladiator and in the Final battle. The fight against the greatest gladiator Tigris turns to Caesars box, with swords crossed, he bows, We who are about to die salute you. Maximus stands by, showing no salute whatsoever. As Maximus gets ready to fight the large doors to the arena are thrown open, surprising Maximus. From each door emerges a team of men, who run into the arena. Each team picks up a chain from the sand. Maximus becomes distracted and Tigris kicks sand into Maximus face and begins the fight. As the fight continues and as Maximus is thrown to the ground, a trap door opens and out jumps a large tiger, pouncing at the fighting gladiators. Maximus is nowà having to escape the claws of the tigers as he battles Tigris. In the background can be heard loose, loose, loose and pull, pull, pull as the handlers coordinate their efforts in handling each of the tigers that are now on the arena floor growling and charging at Maximus.] [Maximus manages to disarm Tigris, switching his sword from one hand to the other, Maximus stands ready to finish off Tigris. Suddenly, a fourth tiger jumps out of a trap door and jumps at Maximus. In that split second, Maximus turns and the tiger is speared with his sword. Maximus is thrown to the sand as the large beast lays atop him. Maximus stabs the beast repeatedly, killing it. The crowds cheer wildly. Tigris moves in for an attack. Maximus, on his back with the beast still on him, manages to grab Tigris own hatchet and with great force spikes him in the foot. Tigris bends over in pain, blood pouring from the opening of his mask. Maximus stands and kicks Tigris over to the ground. He is finished. The Final battle The trap door to the arena opens as the lift rises, encircled with the Praetorian as they stand behind their black shields. In the middle, the white clad Commodus, gazing upwardly, basking in the sun and the wounded, dying Maximus stand. All the while, Quintus staring at Maximus. As they reach the arena, the Praetorian take their place at the perimeter of the arena. Maximus stumbles to the center, slowly stooping to pick up a handful of sand, with a watchful eye on Quintus. Maximus rubs the sand in his hands and reaches for his sword but Quintus tosses it aside, and out of reach. Maximus painfully moves to where the sword has been tossed and picks it up, immediately swinging at Commodus. The two do battle. Maximus roars as he attacks Commodus. Commodus manages to cut Maximus leg. Although wounded, Maximus cuts Commodus arm causing him to drop his sword.] [Maximus begins to drift into the after-life and as he sees the gate to his home, the sword drops from his hand. Meanwhile, Commodus is calling Quintus for his sword but Quintus does not comply. Commodus then turns to the Praetorian, calling out sword. The guards begin to pull their swords when Quintus quickly tells them to sheath your swords and they quickly comply. As Commodus reaches for his hidden dagger, Maximus quickly returns to this life and, unarmed but for his strength and determination, does battle with Commodus, turning Commodus knife against him. Commodus tries relentlessly to fightà Maximus off but Maximus slowly plunges the knife into Commodus throat, further and further until it can go no further. Commodus falls to the ground. The fight over, Maximus begins to drift as he reaches out his bloodied hand, to push open the gate that leads to his home. Peace, once again, overcomes Maximus when Qu intus calls to him. Maximus, Maximus. Maximus regains consciousness.] To bring to life ancient Rome, director Ridley Scott employed great period costumes, chariots and horses, lots of dark-haired actors and actresses, and an amazing looking coliseum in the time period set in the movie. The musical score was possibly the best feature of this film, as the music is haunting and perfectly punctuates the dramatic action in soft, then ever-increasing tempos. It was a real trick to make music that would accentuate the flavor of this historical piece, and not distract it. The film used a very potent combination of long shots and close-ups to heighten the drama and yet propel responder into the immensity of the situation: the overwhelming doom that seems to be around any and every corner in Rome. For instance, at this scene where Maximus has defeated the greatest gladiator ever to fight, in a long, drawn-out battle. The bested warrior lies fallen at Maximusââ¬â¢ feet, awaiting his demise. The crowd chants Kill, Kill, Kill! The long shot shows Emperor Commodu s watching Maximus, and in the shot, the emperor is shown in the foreground, and Maximus appears small in the background. In this way the responder get a sense of the power that Commodus holds over Maximus. Now a medium-long shot of the crowd to get a sense of how many people are chanting for the vanquished opponentââ¬â¢s death; they all appear in unison, willfully they crave blood. Next a close-up of the emperor as he dramatically steps forward, arm extended. If he gives a thumbs up, the opponent should live. If he gives a thumbs-down, the opponent should be killed. His arm hangs outward and all eyes in the coliseum fall upon his hand. He gives the thumbs-down, and the crowd goes wild with roars of approval. Finally, a close-up of Maximus as he throws down his own sword in complete defiance to the emperor and to the people. The skillful editing helps contrast the morals Maximus and Commodus possess: Commodus is ruthless and political, Maximus does only what he has to, no more no less, and he is a man of his own conviction. This scene helps responder to understand why earlier the dying emperor Marcus Aurelius wanted Maximus to succeed him, he knew Maximus would do the right thing and not beà swayed easily by popular opinion. A leader must lead, not follow. Whenever the composer wanted the responder to get a sense of the size of this coliseum, he employed the cinematographer to use long range shots. When he wanted responder to get a sense of the hustle and bustle of Rome, a hand-held camera was used. The Final battle: The composer used a number of different techniques during the filming of the Final battle, including muted, washed out colors in the Coliseum. The scene is bright and colour comes across perfectly, setting the mood for the scene of battle. The fighting is filmed replete with quick cuts and a frenetic filming process; its disorienting but not so much that we cant keep track of whos who and what each participant is doing in said battle. The fighting is realistic without zooming in on the gore, as the violence speaks for itself. The composer correctly makes the scenes exciting without the need for a barf bucket.. Combat is supposed to be jarring and disorienting and the filming process actually communicates this sense to the responder very well. The responderd have to agree, as the scenes outstanding in special effects. They are seeing the Coliseum when it is a new(100 years old) and its grand structure, as it would have been in ancient Rome. Stunts are well coordinated and real tigers were used in a particular fight scene, grabbing out just inches from Maximus and his opponent. He earned his act on those days of shooting. Sound The soundtrack with its haunting score, is very memorable its scope and theme. Sound track manages to take a main character theme and vary it depending on the action, making it subtle and sweet at times, brooding and depressing at others. Throughout the film, the same musical elements are applied, bring unity and depth to the story. Besides digital sound, Dolby 5.1 is also included on the same disc
Thursday, November 14, 2019
Cinema in Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye Essay -- Toni Morrison Bluest
Cinema in Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye In Toni Morrisonââ¬â¢s novel, The Bluest Eye, characters learn how to perform social roles though film. Pauline goes to the movies in search of a more glamorous identity. Instead, the unattainable beauty she sees onscreen reaffirms her low place in society. Laura Mulveyââ¬â¢s article, Visual and Other Pleasures, explains filmââ¬â¢s ability to indoctrinate patriarchal social order. This ability is certainly applicable to Morrisonââ¬â¢s novel. Film reinforces the Breedlovesââ¬â¢ place in society, teaches Claudia to love Shirley Temple and constructs women as sexual objects for pleasure. Mulveyââ¬â¢s article also examines the powerful, active male gaze. In The Bluest Eye the female gaze is constructed as dirty, unnatural and wrong. Women and children in this novel are relegated to the role of passive sexual objects. Little girls are subjected to the gaze of Cholly and Soaphead Church. Mulvey defines this type of gaze as fetishistic scopophilia. In both Mulve yââ¬â¢s article and Morrisonââ¬â¢s novel film is used as an instructional tool to create identity and reinforce social and gender roles. Filmââ¬â¢s power to enforce social order is revealed in Paulineââ¬â¢s trips to the movies. She is drawn to the physical beauty and therefore taught to value beauty above anything else in society. Pauline receives an ââ¬Å"educationâ⬠from the movies. ââ¬Å"It was really a simple pleasure, but she learned all there was to love and all there was to hateâ⬠(Morrison 122). Pauline learns how to order her world though film. She is taught to love beauty and hate ugliness. Film, however, also teaches her to hate herself because of her ugliness. At first Pauline identifies with the beautiful white women she sees in the movies. ... ...so presents the idea of scopophilia and active male gaze. Morrison further examines these ideas by constructing an active female gaze. When Pecola and Claudia experience this type of gaze they do not feel powerful, but sinful. Morrison also depicts women in the role of passive sexual objects. These women are forced to submit to the male gaze and are powerless to control it. In The Bluest Eye Morrison examines Mulveyââ¬â¢s assertions about the role of cinema, the active male gaze and the passive female. She proves cinemaââ¬â¢s ability to assign social scripts and the total domination of the active male gaze over little girls. Works Cited Morrison, Toni. The Bluest Eye. New York, New York: Penguin Group, 1994. Mulvey, Laura. ââ¬Å"Visual Pleasure & Narrative Cinema.â⬠Visual and Other Pleasures. Bloomington, IN: Indiana University Press, 1989. 14-26.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
How could the Holocaust have beet prevented Essay
You have probably heard about a period of time, not so long ago, known as ââ¬ËThe Holocaust.ââ¬â¢ A holocaust, according to Websterââ¬â¢s dictionary, is ââ¬Ëa complete destruction by fireââ¬â¢ (Stadtler, 1). In Europe, during this period, there was a complete destruction by fire ââ¬â of Jewish homes, Jewish businesses, Jewish neighborhoods, and Jewish people. This destruction was carried out under the direction of Adolf Hitler, during the years 1939-1945, but it actually began earlier, in 1933, when Hitler came to power in Germany. In my opinion, the Holocaust, which was caused by ignorance, could very well have been prevented. There were many powerful nations, such as the United Stated, the USSR, and Britain, whose leaders and militaries could have stepped in and helped the Jewish people who were facing extremely brutal persecution. Throughout most of the war, the American government clung to the delusion that the Naziââ¬â¢s were persecuting the Jews because of their political or religious beliefs. The U.S. closed its gates to emigration from Europe in 1940-1941, when Jews were still allowed to emigrate. ââ¬ËAnti-Semitism in America actually increased during the war and started to decline only at the end of itââ¬â¢ (Bauer, 297). A Soviet attitude toward the murder of the Jews simply did not exist. While fighting a desperate battle for its own survival, Britain saved the Jews of Palestine, North Africa, and much of the British Empire from the fate of European Jewry. ââ¬ËThe British fought only for themselves, but the defense of their own interests coincided with the defense of civilized humanity, including the Jewsââ¬â¢ (Bauer, 296). The May 1939 White Paper on immigration to Palestine stated that immigration to Palestine would end after 75,000 had been admitted between 1939 and 1944. When war broke out, the British decreed that no enemy nationals could enter Palestine, which in effect, closed the doors to those who needing rescue most, specifically the European Jews trying to escape the Nazis. At first, the thought of such destruction in Europe was incomprehensible to other Nations. They heard of what was occurring, but did not believe it, and therefore did nothing. ââ¬ËThe suffering of hundreds of thousands, soon of millions, was evident for consciences to be aroused, for steps to be taken.à Nothing was doneââ¬â¢ (Bauer, 297). I feel the ignorance of these Nations was the cause of the loss of 6 million lives. Had these Nations not turned their heads away and ignored what was happening, they could have saved many lives and prevented the Holocaust. By allowing emigration from Europe into their countries, by trying to negotiate with Hitler, or if worse came to worse, assassinating Hitler, things might have been different. By not recognizing the events leading to the Holocaust and of the Holocaust, they also caused the Holocaust along with Adolf Hitler. The Holocaust could only have been prevented by the World Powers, but they failed to do so because they were so ignorant. During the 19th century, European Jewry was being emancipated, and in most European countries, Jews were achieving some equality of status with non-Jews. Nonetheless, at times, Jews were vilified and harassed by anti-Semitic groups. Indeed, some anti-Semites believed that Jewry was an alien ââ¬Ëraceââ¬â¢ not assimilable into a European culture, but they did not formulate any coherent anti-Semitic campaign until Hitler came to power. Germany was defeated in World War I after a four year struggle that left its people exhausted and divided. The harsh peace terms of the Versailles Treaty placed a heavy economic burden on them. Before the war Germany had thought of itself as Europeââ¬â¢s greatest nation. Now it was confused, bitter, and economically crippled, its wealth drained to pay the vast sums demanded by the Versailles Peace Treaty. Rising inflation left many Germans poor and others jobless. Political differences exploded in assassinations and street fighting. The new democratic government of Germany, the Weimar Republic, was unable to prevent disorder and caused people to lose faith in democracy. With Germans of all outlooks desperately seeking solutions for the nationââ¬â¢s problems, Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party began their climb to power. ââ¬ËHitler was gifted with effective political talents. He offered an explanation for Germanyââ¬â¢s defeat, and a vision of Germanyââ¬â¢s future destiny, that played upon the fears, prejudices, and hopes of many Germans. He promised to rebuildà Germanyââ¬â¢s power and restore its prosperityââ¬â¢ (Isaacman, 16). This won the support of many Germans. Hitler was such an effective speaker that anything he said was believed even if it was not true. Hitler believed that the German people were part of an ââ¬ËAryan race,ââ¬â¢ a superior group that should be kept pure to fulfill their mission of ruling the world. He felt that the Jewish people were ââ¬Ësub-human,ââ¬â¢ when in actuality they were virtually the same as his ââ¬ËAryan race.ââ¬â¢ Not only did Hitler have a personal hatred toward the Jewish people, but he also blamed them for ââ¬Ëstabbing Germany in the backââ¬â¢ after Germanyââ¬â¢s defeat in World War I. Hitler used them as scapegoats because they were a minority and were easy to put the blame on. ââ¬ËHistorians agree that the Holocaust resulted from a confluence of various factors in a complex historical situation. That anti-Semitism festered throughout the centuries in European culture is centrally important; the Jews were (and are) a minority civilization in a majority environment. In periods of crisis, instead of searching for the solution of such crisis within the majority culture, the majority will tend to project blame for the crisis on a minority which is both familiar and weak. As the originators and bearers of an important part of civilization, the Jews are a father civilization against which pent up aggressions are easily unleashedââ¬â¢ (Bauer, 330). Anti-Semitism had always played a role in Nazi propaganda, for Hitler blamed most of Germanyââ¬â¢s problems on the Jews. Anti-Jewish laws of every kind were passed. Jews could no longer be judges, lawyers, teachers, government officials, army officers. Jewish doctors could not treat non-Jewish patients, Jews could not employ non-Jews, and Jews and non-Jews could not have social relationships. Jewish property was taken by the government, Jewish businesses were closed down, Jewish children could not attend public schools. All the media were utilized to spread anti-Jewish messages. On the street, Jews were mocked, tormented, and even beaten for no other reason but being Jewish. Jewish people were forced to wear Star of David armbands and were often attacked by storm troopers. On November 9-10, 1938, known as Kristallnacht (ââ¬ËNight of the Broken Glassââ¬â¢), hundreds of synagogues throughout Germany were burned by Nazi mobs, windows of Jewish shops were smashed, and thousands of Jews were arrested. Kristallnacht was a signal to Jews in Germany and Austria to leave as soon as possible. Severalà hundred thousand people were able to find refuge in other countries, but a similar number, including many who were old or poor, ââ¬Ëstayed to face an uncertain fateââ¬â¢ (Stadtler, 12). The countries of Europe and the United States too, only admitted a small number of Jews. Had these countries made an exception for these people who were being treated poorly in their home countries there would have been a smaller amount of lives lost in the years to come. Throughout the 1930ââ¬â¢s, conditions for the Jews in Germany worsened. Some people in the United States refused to buy German products in an effort to put pressure on Hitler, but it did not help. This was not enough, the United States was a strong world power and could have done more to aid the Jewish people of Germany. What could a small amount of people not buying German products do? Absolutely nothing because Germany was much stronger than these few people; the aid of an entire nation was needed, not the aid of a few people. Since no one was stopping Hitler, he proceeded to enlarge Germanyââ¬â¢s territory. Threatening to use force if he did not get his way, he gained control of Austria in 1938 and of Czechoslovakia in 1939. Later in 1939, when Hitler invaded Poland, World War II broke out. During the early years of the war, Hitlerââ¬â¢s armies conquered most of Europe. Millions of Jews were now under German rule, and Hitler felt he was at last in a position to solve the ââ¬ËJewish Question.ââ¬â¢ As Hitler saw it, the ââ¬ËJewish Questionââ¬â¢ was simply the fact that the Jews existed. Therefore, the ââ¬Ëfinal solutionââ¬â¢ emerged as a way to destroy them. Throughout Europe, in all the countries under their control- Poland, Western Russia, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Lithuania, Latvia, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Greece, Italy, France, Holland, Denmark, Norway- the Jews were rounded up and confined in concentration camps or ghettos. Stripped of their property, brutalized, terrified, and disoriented, they were forced to work as slave laborers in abominable conditions. Many died of starvation and disease. Others were shot or beaten to death. Before long, rumors of this brutality reached capitals of the world, but nothing was done. As the war against the Jews progressed, however, the Naziââ¬â¢s turned to large scale centralized killing operations. Jews from all over Europe were loaded into trains and shipped to death camps, among them, Auschwitz, Treblinka, Sobibor. LOCATION OF GERMAN CONCENTRATION CAMPS ââ¬ËIn the death camps, human life was destroyed quickly and efficientlyââ¬â¢ (Isaacman, 19). Under the whips of cruel SS guards, the Jewish victims were herded off the trains and into gas chambers, where they were exterminated by a poisonous gas. Millions of non-Jews were also systematically killed- political opponents, Slavic peoples, and other minorities. In the case of the Jews, the Naziââ¬â¢s were determined to annihilate an entire people. Some Jews fought back at every possible opportunity. Some Christians, too, tried to help. Taking great personal risks, they hid Jewish friends in their homes or cellars. Many of these people were caught and killed by the Naziââ¬â¢s. People willing to take such risks were few and far between in Europe. Had other nations of the world been as righteous and as brave as these people, and combined their efforts, this attempted annihilation of the Jewish people could have been prevented. To some Naziââ¬â¢s the ââ¬Ëfinal solutionââ¬â¢ was more important than anything else. ââ¬ËThough Germany was hemmed in by enemies and fighting for its life, they diverted valuable resources to the extermination machineââ¬â¢ (Isaacman, 20). Trains that could have carried ammunition to the front were used to transport Jews to death camps. Soldiers who could have been defending their country were instead sent to round up and guard Jewish civilians. ââ¬ËAfter several years of war, Hitler knew he could not defeat America and the other Allies, but he was determined to win at least one victory by wiping out the Jewsââ¬â¢ (Isaacman, 20). The United States and other world powers were too focused on the war to maintain their pride. While in Germany Hitler was trying to wipe an entire people off the face of the Earth. If these other nations of the world were not so ignorant, the lives of six million peopleà could have been saved. Hitler and his Nazi Party treated the Jewish people so inhumanely. He and his party felt that the Jews were biologically different, when in fact they were and are not. Every human being is equal and should be treated equally. No one is superior to anyone else, even though some may have an egocentric attitude. In 1945, Hitler committed suicide. Rather than correcting his errors, Hitler took the easy way out by committing suicide. The ultraorthodox Jewish theology justifies the Holocaust as an act of God, a punishment for sins committed by the Jewish people against their God. Others feel that the Holocaust was a result of manââ¬â¢s betrayal to God. I feel that the Holocaust is not at all justified. During the Holocaust, six million Jewish people died, that is more than one-third (about 34 percent) of the Jewish population. ââ¬ËFrom the liberated Nazi camps, weeping skeletons of men and women emerged. Among them were 200,000 Jews. These have to be added to the 210,000 that survived in France, about 37,000 in Belgium, 20,000 in the Netherlands, about 1,900,000 in the Polish-Soviet area, 350,000 in Rumania, 130,000 in Hungary, and smaller numbers elsewhere. Including Soviet Jewry, part of whom were never under Nazi rule, about 3 million Jews were left in Europe out of the original 9 million Jews before the warââ¬â¢ (Bauer, 334). As I stated before, there is only one thing and one thing only that caused this horrid event called the Holocaust, ignorance. Not just ignorance of the United States and the other world powers, but the ignorance of Hitler and his Nazi Party as well. Had the U.S. and other nations offered aid to the Jewish refugees, and opened their doors to these refugees, they would have saved many lives. Instead, they were just as guilty as the Naziââ¬â¢s by helping in the destruction of an entire race. WORKS CITED PAGE Bauer, Yehuda. A History of the Holocaust. New York: Franklin Watts, 1983. Chartock, Roselle, Jack Spencer. The Holocaust Years: Society on Trial. New York: Bantam Books, 1978. Des Pres, Terrence. The Survivor: An Anatomy of Life in the Death Camps. New York: Oxford University Press, 1976. ââ¬ËHolocaust.ââ¬â¢ Microsoft Encarta (CD ROM). 1993. Stadtler, Bea. The Holocaust: A History of Courage and Resistance. New York: Behrman House, Inc., 1973. Isaacman, Clara. Pathways Through the Holocaust. New York: Ktav Publishing House, Inc., 1988.
Saturday, November 9, 2019
Animal Farm Dialectic Journal Essay
Directions:Find the quote in the novel, put it into context, add the page number from your book and then respond insightfully. Chapter 1 ââ¬Å"And remember also that in fighting against Man, we must not come to resemble him. Even when you have conquered him, do not adopt his vices.â⬠Chapter 2 ââ¬Å"Their most faithful disciples were the two cart-horses, Boxer and Clover. Those two had great difficulty in thinking anything out for themselves, but having once accepted the pigs as their teachers, they absorbed everything they were told, and passed it on to other animals by simple arguments.â⬠Chapter 3 ââ¬Å"Mollie, it was true, was not good at getting up in the mornings, and had a way of leaving work early on the ground that there was a stone in her hoof. And the behavior of the cat was somewhat peculiar. It was soon noticed that when there was work to be done the cat could never be found.â⬠Chapter 4 ââ¬Å"And yet the song was irrepressible. The black birds whistled it in the hedges, the pigeons cooed it in the elms, it got into the din of the smithies and the tune of the church bells. And when the human beings listened to it, they secretly trembled, hearing it in a prophecy of their future doom.â⬠Chapter 5 ââ¬Å"At the meetings Snowball often won over the majority by his brilliant speeches, but Napoleon was better at canvassing support for himself in between times. He was especially successful with the sheep. Of late the sheep had taken to bleating, ââ¬ËFour legs good, two legs badââ¬â¢ both in and out of seasons, and they often interrupted the meeting with this.â⬠Chapter 6 ââ¬Ëââ¬Å"Comrades,ââ¬â¢ he said quietly, ââ¬Ëdo you know who is responsible for this? Do you know the enemy who has come in the night and overthrown our windmill? snowballà !ââ¬â¢ he suddenly roared in a voice of thunder.â⬠Chapter 7 ââ¬Å"Once again it was being put about that all the animals were dying of famine and disease, and that they were continually fighting among themselves and had resorted to cannibalism and infanticide. Napoleon was well aware of the bad results that might follow if the real facts of the food situation were known, and he decided to make use of Mr. Whymper to spread a contrary impression.â⬠Chapter 8 ââ¬Å"On Sunday morning Squealer, holding down a long strip of paper with his trotter, would read out to them lists of figures proving that the production of every class of food stuff had increased by two hundred percent, three hundred percent, or five hundred percent as the case might be. Then the animals saw no reason to disbelieve him, especially as they could no longer remember very clearly what conditions had been like before the Rebellion.â⬠Chapter 9 ââ¬Å"Fools! Fools! Shouted Benjamin, prancing around them and stamping the earth with his small hoofs. ââ¬ËFools! Do you not see what is written on the side of the van?ââ¬â¢Ã¢â¬ Chapter 10 ââ¬Å"Twelve voices were shouting in anger, and they were all alike. No question, no, what had happened to the faces of the pigs. The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again, but already it was impossible to say which was which.ââ¬
Thursday, November 7, 2019
Neil Young â⬠My My, Hey Hey
Neil Young ââ¬â My My, Hey Hey Evidently, the Neil Youngââ¬â¢s song (My My Hey Hey) is symbolic in nature. His choice of words and thematic use of colors are evident upon analysis. It is crucial to understand various provisions of this song in the context of its meaning and symbolic aspects. For example, Kurt Cobain quoted it in his suicidal note. Lyrically and symbolically, the line ââ¬Å"Out of the blue and into the black means a lot and can be used variedly to demonstrate diverse situations. It is symbolical that ââ¬Ëblueââ¬â¢ is better than ââ¬Ëblackââ¬â¢ in the contexts of fate (Young Crazy par. 1).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Neil Young ââ¬â ââ¬Å"My My, Hey Heyâ⬠specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This provision depicts that one has moved from better to worse. Contextually, Neil Young could not believe that, at one moment, his rock songs would be irrelevant and obsolete. This is what is simply summarized by the concerned lyrical phrase. This symbolism does not apply only in the music industry; however, it is applicable in various contexts. It is vital to understand what an individual does in an industry so as to remain relevant. The issue of remaining germane in the artistic industry is a critical provision. Literally, blue and black colors tend to contrast both in appearance and application. Their use in this song can be considered critical and meaningful in bringing out what Neil Young meant thematically. Another relevant example helpful in this context can be drawn when one uses heroine to avert pain. In this context, the side effects of heroine might be worse than the atrocities initially caused by the pain. The song is inspirational. It urges people to put their best foot forward and endeavor to produce the best as time runs out. One might be irrelevant as time passes as depicted by the artist (Neil Young). The situation is worse when things have gone stuffy and nothing can be done ab out them. Precisely, this can be the symbolic meaning of this phrase and the color codes used. Also, there is a considerable difference between the use of burning out and ââ¬Å"fading away in the song. Neil Young used the two phrases to support the previously mentioned color codes. Symbolically, ââ¬Å"burning outâ⬠has been used to denote a total extinction from existence. Conversely, ââ¬Å"fading awayâ⬠is a slow-paced disappearance from existence. The latter is retrievable while the former is irreversible. By using the two phrases together, the artist provided an opportunity to evaluate various artistic situations. This is backed up by another line in the song, ââ¬Å"And once youre gone, you can never come backâ⬠, which supports the previously mentioned total extinction. It is evident that songs are written to reflect on the daily happenings. Neil used this song to discern various aspects of artistry and other relevant provisions. It is crucial to understand the deeper meaning of the entire phrases within the song. This will help in revealing the symbolic meaning of the song. Critically, the differences that exist between the use of burning out and ââ¬Å"fading away, can be discerned contextually and variably. As indicated before, the consequences of burning out incorporate the absolute extermination. Symbolically, things that have burnt out are no longer in existence (Lyricsfreak 2). Another credible issue in this context is the fact that various fashions and artistic styles have come and gone.Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This denotes what Neil meant symbolically. Conversely, the consequences of fading away are evident. What has faded away might sound irrelevant when considered critically. Several things happen when one has passed his or her prime life. It is unfortunate that as time passes by, one becomes unable to do t he things he/she could do during his or her prime time. Evidently, life changes considerably. This is what Neil wanted to demonstrate. Additionally, the line, They give you this, but you pay for that is an interesting concept as evident from the song. Usually, people do not get what they desire. They fight to obtain a particular thing only to get the reverse. This is an interesting provision in the context of human life and how people relate. This phrase also denotes the insincerity evident among people. Most individuals are not straight forward. What they give out is not what was asked for. Neil used this phrase to discern the aspects of dishonesty amongst masses. ââ¬Å"Theyâ⬠, in this song, refers to individuals who one deals with regardless of the sector. One can be deceived in numerous ways (Lyricsfreak 4). The deceit in this context means that what one realizes later might not be what he or she expected before. What is given out is not what was asked for. This can range f rom physical objects to vital information. Precisely, there is no honesty in the concerned deals. ââ¬Å"Paymentâ⬠refers to the ultimate loss incurred in the concerned deal. Conclusively, Neil Young used symbolism in his song. The significance of colors and thematic styles of the song are evident. It is important to understand various provisions of this song as discussed earlier. Contextually, this is a critical provision in regard to symbolism and song writing. Lyricsfreak. Neil Young My My, Hey Hey Lyrics. 2012. Web. https://www.lyricsfreak.com/n/neil+young/hey+hey+my+my_10191111.html Young, Neil and Crazy Horse. My My Hey Hey. Rust Never Sleeps. 1979. New York, NY: Reprise, 1990. Print.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Neil Young ââ¬â ââ¬Å"My My, Hey Heyâ⬠specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More
Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Christmas Tree or Floral Preservative Recipe
Christmas Tree or Floral Preservative Recipe Christmas tree preservatives (aka Christmas tree food) and cut flower preservatives contain the same ingredients: a food source for the plant, an acidifier (making hard water more acidic which helps the plant take in water and food), and a disinfectant to prevent mold, fungi, and algae from growing. This is an easy process that takes mere minutes. Christmas Tree Preservative Ingredients 1 gallon water2 cups light corn syrup4 teaspoons chlorine bleach4 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar (optional) How To Make Christmas Tree Food Mix the ingredients together and keep the solution in the base for the Christmas tree or vase for cut flowers. Both trees and flowers will last longer in cooler areas away from direct sunlight.Make sure the tree or flower always has water. Regularly refill the vase or the base where the tree sits. In addition, you may wish to spritz the tree or flowers periodically with water from a spray bottle.You can store the solution for four to fiveà days at room temperature in a closed container, or two weeks refrigerated. Tips Do not drink! If you plan on making enough tree or cut flower preservative to store, label your container and keep it out of reach of children and pets.Bleach and vinegar produce toxic vapors when mixed. If you add vinegar or lemon juice, add it to the water rather than mix it directly with the bleach. Its okay to use bleach without the lemon juice or vinegar if this worries you.If you dont have corn syrup, you can substitute 4 teaspoons of sugar, dissolved in the water. Some people add a penny to a sugar solution so that the copper can act as a fungicide and acidifier.Another common option is to substitute a can of acidic soft drink, like Sprite or 7-Up, instead of the corn syrup and lemon juice. Just add a can of (non-diet) soft drink to a gallon of water, with a splash of bleach.For flowers, youll probably want to cut the recipe to 1 quart water, 1/2 c. corn syrup, 1 tsp. bleach, 1 tsp. lemon juice.
Sunday, November 3, 2019
Organization Studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
Organization Studies - Essay Example Scientific management and the human relations theory are related to the rationalization theory of Max Weber. Specifically, scientific management by Frederick Taylor was formally rational because it involved the use of a well calculated procedure to produce maximum output at minimum input within organisations. On the other hand, human relations theory is substantively rational in nature because it calls for emphasis on sociopsychological and moral qualities of labour rather than scientific calculation and maximization of profits. The formal or technical rationality defined by Weber meant that an organisation is based on hierarchy of authority, functional specialization, impersonality and rules. Formal rationality is distinguished from substantive rationality because it is defined as a way of choosing the best means to a given end (ONeill, 1986). On the other hand, Weber defined substantive rationality as a way of determining whether the end achieved is rational. Substantive rationality is based on values and morals that define an organisation or a society. Formal rationality is based on measurements and calculations. In terms of economic action, formal rationality recognizes the extent of quantitative accounting in decision making (Weber, 1962). Weber suggests that such quantitative approach of decision making is possible and applicable. Weber further argues that formal rationality is a variable not an attribute because it has a varying extent. According to Weber, expressing items in terms of money is the best way of achieving the highest degree of formal rationality (Wallace, 1990). Formal rationality entails socially invented measurements which are determined by symbolic representation and manipulation of empirical observations. Such measurement scales can be used to assess the given means and results under given circumstances. Therefore, formal rationality
Thursday, October 31, 2019
Access to Healthcare as an Ethical Issue Research Paper
Access to Healthcare as an Ethical Issue - Research Paper Example These health conditions are proved to be very expensive to manage. Likewise, other chronic health conditions such as heart ailments are very costly to treat. Due to the elevated costs of maintaining these health conditions, the cost of health care has also plummeted. Consequently, some of the societal and collective courses of action aimed at improving and making healthcare accessible to everyone such as Medicare have been adversely affected by this costly management. This is the reason why a substantial percentage of Americans do not have health insurance. One of the issues of ethical or moral concern in the U.S. facing leaders in healthcare today is improving access to health. The issue of inability to access healthcare has remained an issue of concern in the field of healthcare over the recent past. According to Trotochaud (2006), ââ¬Å"In 2002, almost 85% of the US population reported having healthcare insurance coverage from employer-based insurance (55%), Medicaid, other means-tested programs (17%), or Medicare (13%). The remaining 15% of the population had no health insurance coverage of any type.â⬠(166). Many critics of the US health care system have been arguing that the US government does not deal with or tackle the ever increasing expenditure on healthcare. Americans on the other hand believe that issues of accessibility and expenditure incurred on health care are issues of great worry. According to Trotochaud (2006), the issue o f access to healthcare is concerned with issues of fairness and impartiality. Citizens of a democratic nation have the right to fair and impartial allocation of national assets. To effectively comprehend on the issue of access to healthcare as an ethical issue, it is important to categorize fairness and impartiality to healthcare into access and allocation. Access to healthcare means that individuals possessing the right to access healthcare are able to obtain it. Allocation on the other hand includes the procedures that are incorporated in deciding the percent of national income and assets will be dispersed to cater for healthcare services in the community. The issue of access to healthcare in the US is a political and policy problem. What makes it unethical or immoral is uneven and lopsided access. As a leader, it would be important to implement plans of action that would level the ground and ensure access to healthcare is even. In fact methodical studies conducted in the past hav e elucidated the fact that three quarters of Americans believe that the social order and the world in general is ought to guarantee universal and equal access to healthcare for all individuals. More than half of Americans believe that the issue of access to healthcare is more of a moral issue as compared to being a political and economic predicament. There are certain moral or ethical issues in access to healthcare including equal opportunity for all, fairness, as well as consideration and sympathy. Leaders have been involved in trying to make the American dream a reality. I believe one of the components of the American Dream is equal opportunities for all Americans in all aspects of the society. Therefore, individual well being is a significant component geared to attainment of equal opportunities for all. When some communities in the US fail to have an equal opportunity in accessing healthcare, then this becomes amoral issue. This is contrary to
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
I want to do the topic on service learning and how it can increase Assignment
I want to do the topic on service learning and how it can increase admission retention - Assignment Example Sincerely, [Student signature] Student typed name Student title Encl, Contents Recommendation Report: Service Learning at Angelo State University 5 Discussion of Problem 6 Partnerships 9 Outreach 10 Curricular Engagement 11 Recommended Solution 12 Table of Figures Figure 1: Kellogg Logic Model (2004) 9 Figure 2: Google search results for keywords service learning and outreach 10 Figure 3: Service Learning and associated skills 12 Executive Summary Hook the reader with a clear explanation of what you want to do Briefly summarize each of the major segments of the report University description Problem Your solution Why now? Recommendation Report: Service Learning at Angelo State University It is no secret that many colleges and universities across the country are struggling to stay afloat. Earlier this year, Moody's Investors Service put out a negative outlook for the industry as a whole and predictions are bleak. According to the New York Times, only about 500 out of more than 4,000 Am erican colleges and universities are considered to have stable enough finances to survive (Selingo, 2013). In order to stay viable, many colleges and universities are putting strong effort into retaining freshmen students whose tuitions contribute a significant proportion of overall revenue (Pullaro, 2010). Retaining these students not only contributes to an educated, productive citizenry, but increases the likelihood of retaining them throughout the remainder of their degree plan. Unfortunately, freshmen students face a wide variety of issues that can affect their ability to maintain pursuit of a college degree, only some of which can be addressed by the university. Tinto (1993) provides some common barriers that affect a student's ability to stay in school. While factors such as intention and commitment are inherent to each individual, the university can provide programs that facilitate positive outcomes. Types of services that could assist in these areas would include programs su ch as Angelo State University's (ASU) First-Year Experience program to help with the challenges of adjustment, changes in educational expectations, unfamiliarity with the new culture/environment/lived experience, and, very commonly, feelings of isolation. External barriers to staying in school include students' obligations to family and community and students' ability to finance their college attendance, including tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. Helping students address these needs would also theoretically help increase student retention. While the university cannot reduce tuition rates and still remain viable, it is possible for ASU to address some of these internal and external barriers by incorporating a service learning approach throughout the campus community. The concept of integrating instruction with meaningful community service as a means of engaging students has been around for a long time, but it wasn't until 2001 that the first International Conference on Serv ice Learning took place (Historical Timeline, 2013). As it is now defined, service learning refers to programs in which students are encouraged to use what they are learning about in the classroom and apply it to real-world issues that ultimately benefit their communities. Through the service learning process, the students benefit in a variety of ways. They become invested in the community and connect with other students or
Sunday, October 27, 2019
Moral Hazard Adverse Selection And Asymmetric Information Finance Essay
Moral Hazard Adverse Selection And Asymmetric Information Finance Essay There are many people who have an extra money and want to credit this money to make gains by investing this money, at the other side, there are many people need money to use it in many aspects of life e.g. students need money to pay for their education, home buyer need money, business financial investors also need money and so on, for all of these needed financial intermediary to play an important rule to link between investors and borrowers. There are many risk may happens if there is no intermediate between lender and borrower, information asymmetry one of these risk and in this case information between seller and buyer are different, so it leads to two issues adverse selection and moral hazard. Adverse selection is happened when the one of parties know information more than the other parties, or if the one of parties know information that the other parties not have. Moral hazard is the situation which if the two parties make an agreement about something and one of these parties no t obligate with the agreement terms. All these issues help to explain why banking institutions and other financial intermediaries exist. So, lets go to talk about financial intermediaries and how it can help individuals to deposits and loans by using the easiest way without high level of risk. Also, in we will talk in the following about the terms Information asymmetry, Adverse Selection and Moral Hazard. Financial Intermediaries: Financial intermediary is institutions that take money from investor and depositors and give this money to the borrowers as loans, the main aim from these institutions to link between the depositors whom are seeking for credit and borrowers whom are seeking loans from financial institutions. There are many forms of financial institutions like investing banks, life insurance companies, saving loans associations, building and loan associations, commercial banks, credit unions and investment companies. (Investor Directory) Using financial intermediaries in investing give the investors many advantages, let us to talk about the two main advantages, first, making investing through financial intermediaries could reduce the risk of these investments, because directly the investor not have a large base to give his loans, so in this case there is bad diversify, therefore the investor will face a high risk, but by using financial institutions as middleman to invest money we find that the diversify is good, because these institutions have a big base from lenders and borrowers and it invest in a different business which dont have a relation between it. In this case we have a good diversify, so the risk will decreased more than if we investing directly. Second, also financial intermediaries help to give savers the liquidity, liquidity is the ability to convert assets into money (cash) quickly. For example if an individual saver lent someone (borrower) money to but house or asset, and in an argent case he needs hi s money, in this case there is a house now not money, so it is very difficult to convert this asset to cash quickly, it takes a lot of time to do that. But with financial intermediaries could help the saver by giving him the money that he need by provide him the liquidity very quickly than individual, if the financial intermediary doesnt have liquidity at that moment, it can obtain help from the government or another financial institution. (Ingrimayne) The economic business is depend on that all individuals whom owned an economic relationships have a perfect knowledge, also may have similar predictions about the future prospects. But in real, the both parties of each relationship suffer from incomplete information, sometimes they suffer from information asymmetry situation which means the probability of happening the future actions is randomly. the situation that have a different information between the both parties leads to conflict in interests of both parties who have the relationship, therefore this leads to uncertainty which represents in moral hazard and adverse selection. (M. A. Al-Garny) Asymmetric Information Information asymmetry means the situation where there is information which knows to some parties but not to all parties. Asymmetric information can lead to different in the cost between internal and external finance, e.g. seller is know an information on the subject of the quality of assets will be disinclined to agree the conditions offered by buyer who has less information about that asset, this may cause market break down, or may be also cause buying the asset in low price, but if all buyers and sellers have complete information, the situation here will be different. (WSU) Also information asymmetry makes market turn into inefficient, because information is not available to the entire market participant, thus they cant make a good decisions for their businesses. (Investor Words) There are two issues that caused by Information asymmetry, adverse selection and moral hazard. We will talk about these two Issues at the following: First: Adverse Selection Adverse Selection, negative selection or anti-selection is a term which simply means a situation where the buyer and seller have different information about the some aspects of product quality. (Wikipedia) For example in the firms managers and other insides may know more information (about the current position of the firm and the future prospects of the firm) than the outsider investors, in this case the outer information may differ than the inside information, therefore the solution for this problem in this situation is by issuing financial reports to insure the information transferred perfectly from inside firm to the outside investors to help them to make good decisions. (Money Instructor) George Akerlofs in his paper The Market for Lemons located two answers for adverse selection problem, signaling and screening. Michael Spence proposed the suggestion of signaling to solve the information asymmetry problem. In this situation, it is potential for people to indicate their style, therefore credibly transferring information to the other party. Joseph E. Stieglitz the first one who put the screening theory. In this way the under informed party can make the other party to know their information. Sometimes the sellers may know information better than the buyers, like peoples who sale used car, life insurance transactions, real estate agents, realtors, mortgage brokers and loan originators, and stockbrokers. And sometimes the buyers may know information better than the sellers, like the man who sale old art pieces with no previous expert evaluation or health insurance customers of a range of risk levels. (Wikipedia) Second: Moral Hazard The concept of moral hazard comes from insurance industry. Moral hazard is an idea saying that the person will take risk if he has an incentive to do that, therefore the person will ignore some morality aspects of his selection. Instead, he will do what will increase his profits. Anyone knows the tradeoff between return and risk, if he takes risk there may be consequences. The indifference comes when the risk comes without consequences. Also we can define moral hazard as if someone or party that has insurance cover may be further ready to take risks than the other who does not, e.g. if there is a person who has a car and his car is insured against stealing may be more not careful about dropping the probability of stealing than other would has been without such insurance. This point exactly tells us why insurance companies need to overtake (the amount of an appeal driven by the insurer person) majority claims, and decrease premiums rapidly as overtaking growing. It is also why insurer is extremely cautious about the assessment of what he insures and why he is not lawfully necessary to give more than the actual cost of what he cover. Moral hazard also is able to occur at the outer of insurance. Banks and financial institutions over and over again include embedded state guarantees (not official or lawfully obligatory guarantees, other than a common prospect which they are too significant to be unsuccessful). This creates a motivation used for the administration to take larger risks as they will profit from gambles that work, other than the state will give for individuals so as to do not. (Money Terms) Conclusion: I conclude that the financial intermediaries are able to change the risk of assets for cause that they know how to locate an answer for a market breakdown and defeat an information asymmetry problem that come up in credit markets for the reason that borrowers be acquainted with superior concerning their plan than lenders do. Also the financial intermediaries exist to help in solving many issues as we said in this paper. It plays the middleman rule in linked between the borrower who need to finance in his business and lender who want to investing and gain profits taking into account the important rule of this institutions by save the lender from asymmetric information, adverse selection and moral hazard. Because the main issue from its foundation is to collect information about borrowers and this job not easy. This issue is very costly for individuals (small lenders) but when there is financial intermediaries can help the lender to insure where he can invest his money without risks if he gives his money to wrong person, by providing him full information about good borrowers, at the same time this job here doesnt cost a lot because the big size of consumers that they connected with market. On the other hand, there are also still some risks when we deal with financial intermediaries. But with some regulation and other instruction it will be decreased to minimum limit.
Friday, October 25, 2019
In Book Two of Homerââ¬â¢s The Odyssey Telemakhos gains a significant amount :: Classics
In Book Two of Homerââ¬â¢s The Odyssey Telemakhos gains a significant amount of confidence and decides to call an assembly. At the assembly The Odyssey In Book Two of Homerââ¬â¢s The Odyssey Telemakhos gains a significant amount of confidence and decides to call an assembly. At the assembly a wise man Aigyptios presents the listeners with a rare introduction. He states that an assembly has not occurred for about twenty years and commends the individual that had the audacity to call one. At this assembly Telemakhos protests fervently that his motherââ¬â¢s suitors be expelled since they have no respect and appreciation for their generosity ââ¬Å"these men spend their days around our house killing our beeves and sheep and fatted goats , carousing , soaking up our good dark wine, not caring what they doâ⬠. At the end of Telemakhosââ¬â¢s first battle to persuade the minds of the Akhaians against the suitors, a fellow leader named Antinoos decides to defend his fellow suitors. Antinoos counteracts Telemakhous claims informing everyone that the suitors should not be criticized since Penelope is the one to blame ââ¬Å"you should know the suitors are not to blame but it is your own dear ââ¬âincomparably cunning mother ââ¬Å".He further adds that she has been deceiving them with her clever ability to avoid any decisions about marriage and gives the example of her unwoven loom. The suitors then commands that Telemakhos takes immediate action and either evict Miss Penelope from the house or compel her to marry the man her father suggests. Telemakhos makes a firm stance against the suitorââ¬â¢s suggestions and insists that he will never turn his mother out. During Telemakhosââ¬â¢s plead to save his mother; a pair of eagles appears in the sky. Another heated debate then rises between Halitherses and Eurymakhos in which Halitherses argues that the sighting of eagles foretells that Odysseus arrival is near and that the suitors will face grave danger if they donââ¬â¢t leave, while Eurymachus protests that the sighting of the birds are insignificant ââ¬Å"Bird life aplenty is found in the sunny air, not all of it is significantâ⬠. Telemakhos concludes that he is finished with appeals and will let the Gods do the justice. All he desires is to locate a fast ship and a crew of men to carry out a voyage and arrive at a conclusion about his father whereabouts ââ¬Å"If heââ¬â¢s alive and beating his way home you might hold out for another weary year;â⬠¦..then I can come back to my own dear country and raise a mound for himâ⬠¦.â⬠. After the assembly Telemakhos feels a sense of defeat and decides to
Thursday, October 24, 2019
My Fashion, My Self, My Life Essay
Walking down the street wearing my favorite faded Leviââ¬â¢s and vintage Jimi Hendrix t-shirt with the classic black and white Converse Chuck Taylors distinguishes me from the Abercrombie & Fitch crowd, especially when I wear my Ray-Ban sunglasses and tie-dyed bandana.à My style choices fit in and complement my alternative and earth-conscious lifestyle because fashion is an important indicator of what a personââ¬â¢s unique values and interests are. Living in such a saturated consumer culture means that it is impossible to avoid being branded.à That being the case, I feel it is important to consciously choose what type of image to adopt.à I disagree with people who claim that image is everything; however your image does mark you as an individual within a certain subculture. In my case I identify with rock and alternative music that is socially conscious therefore I choose to wear clothes that reflect those interests.à In marking myself this way I can make myself visible to the outside culture in a way that will hopefully draw the attention and acceptance of like-minded individuals, or at least it will hopefully lead to an interesting discussion with people who may not agree with my fashion sense. I know this because it happens all the time, although many times it will be me going up to someone with an Abercrombie shirt on and asking them what they like about paying seventy-five dollars for pre-torn jeans when they could come with me to the thrift shop and get a pair of torn jeans for five dollars.à They will most often tell me that they do not like the idea of wearing clothes that other people have already worn, or that they just like the way brand new jeans feel, or that they had a gift card to the store, or that their girlfriend likes that them in that brand, or that all the cool models wear that brand, or that all of their friends shop there, or etcâ⬠¦ On the other hand, there are people like myself who love to shop second-hand and for as many reasons as people like to shop at the mall.à Personally, I like digging through old clothes trying to find the random gem, like my Jimi concert t-shirt from Woodstock that I got for three dollars and seventy-five cents.à I also like the idea of second-hand shopping because it is a form of recycling that eliminates some of the demand for the creation of new clothes. The fact that in sweatshops around the third world people (and sometimes children) are working away their lives for meager pay just so that the first world can dress themselves in brand new clothes and be at the cutting edge of fashion is appalling.à I would much rather wear the rags of a generation ago than to support that practice. Of course not all brands and companies that produce new clothes are earth-sucking evil-doers, but some are, including many that I see our consumer culture wearing all the time in the commercials, in the malls, and on the streets.à And of course I have purchased new clothes, we all have, but as I have grown older and learned more about the global supply chain, my consumer habits have become much more eco-conscious.à With this in mind, when I do buy new stuff I buy from companies that support environmentally safe production methods and from companies that support progressive labor rights issues.à My fashion, my self, my life.
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Angels Demons Chapter 80-81
80 When Langdon had left the Vatican Secret Archives only two hours ago, he had never imagined he would see them again. Now, winded from having jogged the entire way with his Swiss Guard escort, Langdon found himself back at the archives once again. His escort, the guard with the scar, now led Langdon through the rows of translucent cubicles. The silence of the archives felt somehow more forbidding now, and Langdon was thankful when the guard broke it. ââ¬Å"Over here, I think,â⬠he said, escorting Langdon to the back of the chamber where a series of smaller vaults lined the wall. The guard scanned the titles on the vaults and motioned to one of them. ââ¬Å"Yes, here it is. Right where the commander said it would be.â⬠Langdon read the title. Attivi Vaticani. Vatican assets? He scanned the list of contents. Real estateâ⬠¦ currencyâ⬠¦ Vatican Bankâ⬠¦ antiquitiesâ⬠¦ The list went on. ââ¬Å"Paperwork of all Vatican assets,â⬠the guard said. Langdon looked at the cubicle. Jesus. Even in the dark, he could tell it was packed. ââ¬Å"My commander said that whatever Bernini created while under Vatican patronage would be listed here as an asset.â⬠Langdon nodded, realizing the commander's instincts just might pay off. In Bernini's day, everything an artist created while under the patronage of the Pope became, by law, property of the Vatican. It was more like feudalism than patronage, but top artists lived well and seldom complained. ââ¬Å"Including works placed in churches outside Vatican City?â⬠The soldier gave him an odd look. ââ¬Å"Of course. All Catholic churches in Rome are property of the Vatican.â⬠Langdon looked at the list in his hand. It contained the names of the twenty or so churches that were located on a direct line with West Ponente's breath. The third altar of science was one of them, and Langdon hoped he had time to figure out which it was. Under other circumstances, he would gladly have explored each church in person. Today, however, he had about twenty minutes to find what he was looking for ââ¬â the one church containing a Bernini tribute to fire. Langdon walked to the vault's electronic revolving door. The guard did not follow. Langdon sensed an uncertain hesitation. He smiled. ââ¬Å"The air's fine. Thin, but breathable.â⬠ââ¬Å"My orders are to escort you here and then return immediately to the security center.â⬠ââ¬Å"You're leaving?â⬠ââ¬Å"Yes. The Swiss Guard are not allowed inside the archives. I am breaching protocol by escorting you this far. The commander reminded me of that.â⬠ââ¬Å"Breaching protocol?â⬠Do you have any idea what is going on here tonight? ââ¬Å"Whose side is your damn commander on!â⬠All friendliness disappeared from the guard's face. The scar under his eye twitched. The guard stared, looking suddenly a lot like Olivetti himself. ââ¬Å"I apologize,â⬠Langdon said, regretting the comment. ââ¬Å"It's justâ⬠¦ I could use some help.â⬠The guard did not blink. ââ¬Å"I am trained to follow orders. Not debate them. When you find what you are looking for, contact the commander immediately.â⬠Langdon was flustered. ââ¬Å"But where will he be?â⬠The guard removed his walkie-talkie and set it on a nearby table. ââ¬Å"Channel one.â⬠Then he disappeared into the dark. 81 The television in the Office of the Pope was an oversized Hitachi hidden in a recessed cabinet opposite his desk. The doors to the cabinet were now open, and everyone gathered around. Vittoria moved in close. As the screen warmed up, a young female reporter came into view. She was a doe-eyed brunette. ââ¬Å"For MSNBC news,â⬠she announced, ââ¬Å"this is Kelly Horan-Jones, live from Vatican City.â⬠The image behind her was a night shot of St. Peter's Basilica with all its lights blazing. ââ¬Å"You're not live,â⬠Rocher snapped. ââ¬Å"That's stock footage! The lights in the basilica are out.â⬠Olivetti silenced him with a hiss. The reporter continued, sounding tense. ââ¬Å"Shocking developments in the Vatican elections this evening. We have reports that two members of the College of Cardinals have been brutally murdered in Rome.â⬠Olivetti swore under his breath. As the reporter continued, a guard appeared at the door, breathless. ââ¬Å"Commander, the central switchboard reports every line lit. They're requesting our official position on ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Disconnect it,â⬠Olivetti said, never taking his eyes from the TV. The guard looked uncertain. ââ¬Å"But, commander ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Go!â⬠The guard ran off. Vittoria sensed the camerlegno had wanted to say something but had stopped himself. Instead, the man stared long and hard at Olivetti before turning back to the television. MSNBC was now running tape. The Swiss Guards carried the body of Cardinal Ebner down the stairs outside Santa Maria del Popolo and lifted him into an Alpha Romeo. The tape froze and zoomed in as the cardinal's naked body became visible just before they deposited him in the trunk of the car. ââ¬Å"Who the hell shot this footage?â⬠Olivetti demanded. The MSNBC reporter kept talking. ââ¬Å"This is believed to be the body of Cardinal Ebner of Frankfurt, Germany. The men removing his body from the church are believed to be Vatican Swiss Guard.â⬠The reporter looked like she was making every effort to appear appropriately moved. They closed in on her face, and she became even more somber. ââ¬Å"At this time, MSNBC would like to issue our viewers a discretionary warning. The images we are about to show are exceptionally vivid and may not be suitable for all audiences.â⬠Vittoria grunted at the station's feigned concern for viewer sensibility, recognizing the warning as exactly what it was ââ¬â the ultimate media ââ¬Å"teaser line.â⬠Nobody ever changed channels after a promise like that. The reporter drove it home. ââ¬Å"Again, this footage may be shocking to some viewers.â⬠ââ¬Å"What footage?â⬠Olivetti demanded. ââ¬Å"You just showed ââ¬â ââ¬Å" The shot that filled the screen was of a couple in St. Peter's Square, moving through the crowd. Vittoria instantly recognized the two people as Robert and herself. In the corner of the screen was a text overlay: Courtesy of the BBC. A bell was tolling. ââ¬Å"Oh, no,â⬠Vittoria said aloud. ââ¬Å"Ohâ⬠¦ no.â⬠The camerlegno looked confused. He turned to Olivetti. ââ¬Å"I thought you said you confiscated this tape!â⬠Suddenly, on television, a child was screaming. The image panned to find a little girl pointing at what appeared to be a bloody homeless man. Robert Langdon entered abruptly into the frame, trying to help the little girl. The shot tightened. Everyone in the Pope's office stared in horrified silence as the drama unfolded before them. The cardinal's body fell face first onto the pavement. Vittoria appeared and called orders. There was blood. A brand. A ghastly, failed attempt to administer CPR. ââ¬Å"This astonishing footage,â⬠the reporter was saying, ââ¬Å"was shot only minutes ago outside the Vatican. Our sources tell us this is the body of Cardinal Lamasse from France. How he came to be dressed this way and why he was not in conclave remain a mystery. So far, the Vatican has refused to comment.â⬠The tape began to roll again. ââ¬Å"Refused comment?â⬠Rocher said. ââ¬Å"Give us a damn minute!â⬠The reporter was still talking, her eyebrows furrowing with intensity. ââ¬Å"Although MSNBC has yet to confirm a motive for the attack, our sources tell us that responsibility for the murders has been claimed by a group calling themselves the Illuminati.â⬠Olivetti exploded. ââ¬Å"What!â⬠ââ¬Å"â⬠¦ find out more about the Illuminati by visiting our website at ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Non e posibile!â⬠Olivetti declared. He switched channels. This station had a Hispanic male reporter. â⬠ââ¬â a satanic cult known as the Illuminati, who some historians believe ââ¬â ââ¬Å" Olivetti began pressing the remote wildly. Every channel was in the middle of a live update. Most were in English. â⬠ââ¬â Swiss Guards removing a body from a church earlier this evening. The body is believed to be that of Cardinal ââ¬â ââ¬Å" â⬠ââ¬â lights in the basilica and museums are extinguished leaving speculation ââ¬â ââ¬Å" â⬠ââ¬â will be speaking with conspiracy theorist Tyler Tingley, about this shocking resurgence ââ¬â ââ¬Å" â⬠ââ¬â rumors of two more assassinations planned for later this evening ââ¬â ââ¬Å" â⬠ââ¬â questioning now whether papal hopeful Cardinal Baggia is among the missing ââ¬â ââ¬Å" Vittoria turned away. Everything was happening so fast. Outside the window, in the settling dark, the raw magnetism of human tragedy seemed to be sucking people toward Vatican City. The crowd in the square thickened almost by the instant. Pedestrians streamed toward them while a new batch of media personnel unloaded vans and staked their claim in St. Peter's Square. Olivetti set down the remote control and turned to the camerlegno. ââ¬Å"Signore, I cannot imagine how this could happen. We took the tape that was in that camera!â⬠The camerlegno looked momentarily too stunned to speak. Nobody said a word. The Swiss Guards stood rigid at attention. ââ¬Å"It appears,â⬠the camerlegno said finally, sounding too devastated to be angry, ââ¬Å"that we have not contained this crisis as well as I was led to believe.â⬠He looked out the window at the gathering masses. ââ¬Å"I need to make an address.â⬠Olivetti shook his head. ââ¬Å"No, signore. That is exactly what the Illuminati want you to do ââ¬â confirm them, empower them. We must remain silent.â⬠ââ¬Å"And these people?â⬠The camerlegno pointed out the window. ââ¬Å"There will be tens of thousands shortly. Then hundreds of thousands. Continuing this charade only puts them in danger. I need to warn them. Then we need to evacuate our College of Cardinals.â⬠ââ¬Å"There is still time. Let Captain Rocher find the antimatter.â⬠The camerlegno turned. ââ¬Å"Are you attempting to give me an order?â⬠ââ¬Å"No, I am giving you advice. If you are concerned about the people outside, we can announce a gas leak and clear the area, but admitting we are hostage is dangerous.â⬠ââ¬Å"Commander, I will only say this once. I will not use this office as a pulpit to lie to the world. If I announce anything at all, it will be the truth.â⬠ââ¬Å"The truth? That Vatican City is threatened to be destroyed by satanic terrorists? It only weakens our position.â⬠The camerlegno glared. ââ¬Å"How much weaker could our position be?â⬠Rocher shouted suddenly, grabbing the remote and increasing the volume on the television. Everyone turned. On air, the woman from MSNBC now looked genuinely unnerved. Superimposed beside her was a photo of the late Pope. ââ¬Å"â⬠¦ breaking information. This just in from the BBCâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ She glanced off camera as if to confirm she was really supposed to make this announcement. Apparently getting confirmation, she turned and grimly faced the viewers. ââ¬Å"The Illuminati have just claimed responsibility forâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ She hesitated. ââ¬Å"They have claimed responsibility for the death of the Pope fifteen days ago.â⬠The camerlegno's jaw fell. Rocher dropped the remote control. Vittoria could barely process the information. ââ¬Å"By Vatican law,â⬠the woman continued, ââ¬Å"no formal autopsy is ever performed on a Pope, so the Illuminati claim of murder cannot be confirmed. Nonetheless, the Illuminati hold that the cause of the late Pope's death was not a stroke as the Vatican reported, but poisoning.â⬠The room went totally silent again. Olivetti erupted. ââ¬Å"Madness! A bold-faced lie!â⬠Rocher began flipping channels again. The bulletin seemed to spread like a plague from station to station. Everyone had the same story. Headlines competed for optimal sensationalism. Murder at the Vatican Pope Poisoned Satan Touches House of God The camerlegno looked away. ââ¬Å"God help us.â⬠As Rocher flipped, he passed a BBC station. â⬠ââ¬â tipped me off about the killing at Santa Maria de Popolo ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Wait!â⬠the camerlegno said. ââ¬Å"Back.â⬠Rocher went back. On screen, a prim-looking man sat at a BBC news desk. Superimposed over his shoulder was a still snapshot of an odd-looking man with a red beard. Underneath his photo, it said: Gunther Glick ââ¬â Live in Vatican City Reporter Glick was apparently reporting by phone, the connection scratchy. ââ¬Å"â⬠¦ my videographer got the footage of the cardinal being removed from the Chigi Chapel.â⬠ââ¬Å"Let me reiterate for our viewers,â⬠the anchorman in London was saying, ââ¬Å"BBC reporter Gunther Glick is the man who first broke this story. He has been in phone contact twice now with the alleged Illuminati assassin. Gunther, you say the assassin phoned only moments ago to pass along a message from the Illuminati?â⬠ââ¬Å"He did.â⬠ââ¬Å"And their message was that the Illuminati were somehow responsible for the Pope's death?â⬠The anchorman sounded incredulous. ââ¬Å"Correct. The caller told me that the Pope's death was not a stroke, as the Vatican had thought, but rather that the Pope had been poisoned by the Illuminati.â⬠Everyone in the Pope's office froze. ââ¬Å"Poisoned?â⬠the anchorman demanded. ââ¬Å"Butâ⬠¦ but how!â⬠ââ¬Å"They gave no specifics,â⬠Glick replied, ââ¬Å"except to say that they killed him with a drug known asâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ ââ¬â there was a rustling of papers on the line ââ¬â ââ¬Å"something known as Heparin.â⬠The camerlegno, Olivetti, and Rocher all exchanged confused looks. ââ¬Å"Heparin?â⬠Rocher demanded, looking unnerved. ââ¬Å"But isn't thatâ⬠¦?â⬠The camerlegno blanched. ââ¬Å"The Pope's medication.â⬠Vittoria was stunned. ââ¬Å"The Pope was on Heparin?â⬠ââ¬Å"He had thrombophlebitis,â⬠the camerlegno said. ââ¬Å"He took an injection once a day.â⬠Rocher looked flabbergasted. ââ¬Å"But Heparin isn't a poison. Why would the Illuminati claim ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Heparin is lethal in the wrong dosages,â⬠Vittoria offered. ââ¬Å"It's a powerful anticoagulant. An overdose would cause massive internal bleeding and brain hemorrhages.â⬠Olivetti eyed her suspiciously. ââ¬Å"How would you know that?â⬠ââ¬Å"Marine biologists use it on sea mammals in captivity to prevent blood clotting from decreased activity. Animals have died from improper administration of the drug.â⬠She paused. ââ¬Å"A Heparin overdose in a human would cause symptoms easily mistaken for a strokeâ⬠¦ especially in the absence of a proper autopsy.â⬠The camerlegno now looked deeply troubled. ââ¬Å"Signore,â⬠Olivetti said, ââ¬Å"this is obviously an Illuminati ploy for publicity. Someone overdosing the Pope would be impossible. Nobody had access. And even if we take the bait and try to refute their claim, how could we? Papal law prohibits autopsy. Even with an autopsy, we would learn nothing. We would find traces of Heparin in his body from his daily injections.â⬠ââ¬Å"True.â⬠The camerlegno's voice sharpened. ââ¬Å"And yet something else troubles me. No one on the outside knew His Holiness was taking this medication.â⬠There was a silence. ââ¬Å"If he overdosed with Heparin,â⬠Vittoria said, ââ¬Å"his body would show signs.â⬠Olivetti spun toward her. ââ¬Å"Ms. Vetra, in case you didn't hear me, papal autopsies are prohibited by Vatican Law. We are not about to defile His Holiness's body by cutting him open just because an enemy makes a taunting claim!â⬠Vittoria felt shamed. ââ¬Å"I was not implyingâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ She had not meant to seem disrespectful. ââ¬Å"I certainly was not suggesting you exhume the Popeâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ She hesitated, though. Something Robert told her in the Chigi passed like a ghost through her mind. He had mentioned that papal sarcophagi were above ground and never cemented shut, a throwback to the days of the pharaohs when sealing and burying a casket was believed to trap the deceased's soul inside. Gravity had become the mortar of choice, with coffin lids often weighing hundreds of pounds. Technically, she realized, it would be possible to ââ¬â ââ¬Å"What sort of signs?â⬠the camerlegno said suddenly. Vittoria felt her heart flutter with fear. ââ¬Å"Overdoses can cause bleeding of the oral mucosa.â⬠ââ¬Å"Oral what?â⬠ââ¬Å"The victim's gums would bleed. Post mortem, the blood congeals and turns the inside of the mouth black.â⬠Vittoria had once seen a photo taken at an aquarium in London where a pair of killer whales had been mistakenly overdosed by their trainer. The whales floated lifeless in the tank, their mouths hanging open and their tongues black as soot. The camerlegno made no reply. He turned and stared out the window. Rocher's voice had lost its optimism. ââ¬Å"Signore, if this claim about poisoning is trueâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ ââ¬Å"It's not true,â⬠Olivetti declared. ââ¬Å"Access to the Pope by an outsider is utterly impossible.â⬠ââ¬Å"If this claim is true,â⬠Rocher repeated, ââ¬Å"and our Holy Father was poisoned, then that has profound implications for our antimatter search. The alleged assassination implies a much deeper infiltration of Vatican City than we had imagined. Searching the white zones may be inadequate. If we are compromised to such a deep extent, we may not find the canister in time.â⬠Olivetti leveled his captain with a cold stare. ââ¬Å"Captain, I will tell you what is going to happen.â⬠ââ¬Å"No,â⬠the camerlegno said, turning suddenly. ââ¬Å"I will tell you what is going to happen.â⬠He looked directly at Olivetti. ââ¬Å"This has gone far enough. In twenty minutes I will be making a decision whether or not to cancel conclave and evacuate Vatican City. My decision will be final. Is that clear?â⬠Olivetti did not blink. Nor did he respond. The camerlegno spoke forcefully now, as though tapping a hidden reserve of power. ââ¬Å"Captain Rocher, you will complete your search of the white zones and report directly to me when you are finished.â⬠Rocher nodded, throwing Olivetti an uneasy glance. The camerlegno then singled out two guards. ââ¬Å"I want the BBC reporter, Mr. Glick, in this office immediately. If the Illuminati have been communicating with him, he may be able to help us. Go.â⬠The two soldiers disappeared. Now the camerlegno turned and addressed the remaining guards. ââ¬Å"Gentlemen, I will not permit any more loss of life this evening. By ten o'clock you will locate the remaining two cardinals and capture the monster responsible for these murders. Do I make myself understood?â⬠ââ¬Å"But, signore,â⬠Olivetti argued, ââ¬Å"we have no idea where ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Mr. Langdon is working on that. He seems capable. I have faith.â⬠With that, the camerlegno strode for the door, a new determination in his step. On his way out, he pointed to three guards. ââ¬Å"You three, come with me. Now.â⬠The guards followed. In the doorway, the camerlegno stopped. He turned to Vittoria. ââ¬Å"Ms. Vetra. You too. Please come with me.â⬠Vittoria hesitated. ââ¬Å"Where are we going?â⬠He headed out the door. ââ¬Å"To see an old friend.ââ¬
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