Marketing Giant of the Desert

Palm Springs is a city in California mostly known for its great attractions and countless fun exciting things to do. In a way it's more of a Vacation Resort than anything else. Palm Springs strives off tourism, it is the most important income in the whole city after sales taxes and property taxes. Tourists visit Palm Springs mostly in the winter when everything is open to the public. During the winter is when most events in Palm Springs occur aswell. It is a city of numerous festivals, conventions, and international events. Here is a revenue list of 2009-2010 for Palm Springs.As seen taxes is one of the highest revenues. The city markets to many major segments mostly all of them have to do with tourism. They focus a lot on marketing hotels, stores for shopping, and attractions and events. Smaller segments involve marketing dining/nightlife, and accommodations. These audiences are reached through a variety of ways. It can be the internet, television, or simply word of mouth. They try very hard to make sure there offers are well known and properly displayed to the public simply because tourism is one of the major factors of the city.Some external factors the city cannot control are issues like a down economy. During a recession people worry about saving and investing money not touring. Everyone's budget is tight and during times like these Palm Springs is very much like a business, not making the sales it once was and lowering prices in order to make sure some sort of revenue keeps coming in. The city's promotional marketing is definitely seasonal, the heaviest months are during the winter when it is nice and cool. During this period all shops and attractions are open. The price is also very high during winter for anything.The lightest months are during the summer. This is due to because Palm Springs is a desert area and during summer it can reach up to 120 degrees. The city lowers prices on everything like golf, hotels, clubs, and offers all sorts of other summe r discounts. You can stay at an expensive resort for a fraction of the price it costs during winter. Here is an more accurate estimate of the weather in Palm Springs. Many years ago the city ran into a problem though, which cost them big-time in the long run. The mayor of Palm Springs stopped what was a major event in the city during Spring break.College students who usually went during Spring break stopped coming and eventually it stopped altogether. The city realized how big a mistake this was due to all the money being lost that was generated during this time span of when college students would go to Palm Springs to have a good time. They tried marketing to young adults aged 18-27 years old but it was already too late. This was probably one of the biggest mistakes the mayor made by losing a lot of revenue for the city. Palm Springs has marketed towards gay/lesbian groups more than any other group.There really was no touring place that openly invited gay people in directly and Pal m Springs recognized that. It is now one of America's top destinations for gay and lesbian travelers. There are more than two dozen hotels marketed just for gay and lesbian couples. Gays and Lesbians aren't afraid to spend money. And when they do spend money they don't just spend a little. That is one of the major reasons Palm Springs markets so many things to them. Gay people feel comfortable here especially since Palm Springs has elected its first openly gay Mayor who stood up to the former Mayor for criticizing gay events.Gay people have become the new target market for Palm Springs. They are used in advertisements to make gay people feel welcomed and appreciated. The internet plays a key role in marketing to this specific group. Most of the information we receive everyday is now given through the Internet, When someone Gay or Lesbian see's all these amazing sites and locations designated just for them they automatically have the tendency to want to go there instead of somewhere else where there afraid they might be judged.This marketing approach has also generated some problems for the city aswell. Many straight people might feel the need not to go there if they object against gay or lesbian couples. Overall the community is affected the most. Many gay and lesbian couples have moved into Palm Springs which can affect some of the older residents who have been there their whole lives and don't appreciate this change. But overall no huge problems have occurred from this marketing approach.Palm Springs wants to make sure its visitors are pleased with their stays. They conduct surveys which ask if they were happy and if not what were some common problems they were not pleased with. Through these surveys they also get to know there visitors more, those who visit Palm Springs once generally come back at least 3 times in the next 5 years. Gay visitors come back 4 times in a span of 5 years. These surveys show that gay people are overall more interested in Palm Spr ings than others.A median of spending for a person visiting Palm Springs is $900. These numbers are mostly during a high economy though when people are willing to spend. In conclusion Palm Springs works as a business, they have marketing programs which target specific groups and they operate as any other business would. Most people believe it to be just desert, filled with old people, extremely hot, and just a dead city. However Palm Springs is much more than that once you have actually went and seen it for yourself.

Reflection: Education and Reflective Practice Essay

The aim of this assignment is to give a reflective account on group presentation and the peer assessment process as well as the development of a personal action plan. It would involve using ‘The What? Model of Structured Reflection’ (Driscoll 2007) to analyse the experience of using a group designed assessment tool to assess my peers and the experience of being peer assessed. Additionally, experience of completing a group presentation would be reflected upon. A personal action plan which identifies areas for personal development and the designed assessment tool is attached as appendix 1 and 2 respectively. Reflection entails reviewing experience from practice so that it may be described, analysed, evaluated and consequently used to inform and change future practice in a positive way (Bulman and Schutz 2013, p6). Reflection could be (Oelofsen 2012, p4) in real time (reflection in action) or retrospectively (reflection on action). Several authors (Jay and Johnson 2002; Taylor 2006) have suggested the use of frameworks to guide students undertaking reflective writing. However, John (cited in Bulman and Schutz, 2013, p118) cautions that reflective frameworks are guides rather than a rigid prescriptive format. Jasper (2006) also warns that frameworks come with the author’s perspective and values base and leads reflectors in a specific direction. It is therefore imperative to be critical of the model of choice and adjust the framework to suit ones purposes so that it can be used effectively. Numerous frameworks for facilitating reflection are utilised in nursing (Doel and Shardlow 2009, p42) such as Gibb’s Reflective Cycle (1988) and John’s Model of Structured Reflection (1995). Following critical analysis, ‘The What? Model of Structured Reflection (Driscoll 2007) consisting of three simple questions; What?, So what? and Now what?, each with sub questions was chosen. The rationale for this choice is that this framework is comparatively simple (Howatson-Jones 2010), effective and very apt for novice practitioners but can equally be used at different levels (Jasper 2003, p99). Moreover, it can be used logically with any type of situation by using the cue questions which gives a deeper and meaningful reflective process hereby leading to the formulation of an action plan for the future. Furthermore, as opposed to Gibbs and John’s framework, it enables reflective activity to lead to action being taken rather than being proposed or tentative. The purpose of returning to this situation is to learn from the experience of using a devised assessment tool to assess my peers. Haven being divided into a group of four students based on our learning styles, each group was expected to design an assessment tool and carry out a presentation which is to be peer assessed. The group presentation involved presenting on one of the 3 future roles of a nurse: educator, manager or professional. Devising our assessment tool was very challenging as each member of the group brainstormed, shared views, and prioritised. Communication was done via emails, phone calls and meetings as agreed by all members. Effective team working was evident among all members. The assessment tool was amended based on feedback received from the lecturer. On the presentation day, majority of the students including myself were anxious as there was a misunderstanding of the date of presentation so were not prepared. Although, this affected the quality of our presentation as it was prepared under 20 minutes. However, students’ still proved that they could be innovative even under duress. The peer assessment process involved an individual assessment of each group’s presentation using our assessment tool and calculating the average to give the final grade. During this process, I realized how difficult it was assessing others and being assessed without being biased. It was particularly difficult to measure the criteria as our assessment tool was not explicit making it impossible to justify the marks awarded. It had too many separate components with inappropriate weighting which made it arduous and complicated in the averaging task. Although, the assessment tool appeared simple as it involved ticking boxes. However, it was diff icult to decide which boxes to tick because students demonstrated majority of the criteria but at different levels and this led to being over marked. It would have been more realistic to award marks to each criterion rather than ticking boxes. Hargreaves (2007) as well as Quinn and Hughes (2007, p270) propose that assessment tool should be both valid (assess what it claims to assess) and reliable (perform in a consistent and stable manner). It is of the opinion now following the assessment that our assessment tool cannot be considered valid and reliable for the following reasons. Learning outcome was not part of the criteria so it was impossible to make a judgement about the quality of the students’ presentation and thus could not be penalized. Hinchliff (1999) suggests that learning outcomes should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timed (SMART). It should include an indication of the evidence required to demonstrate that learning has been achieved (Dix and Hughes, 2004), but Welsh and Swann (2002) caution that too many may create unreasonable expectations. Moreover, the ambiguity of the tool and individuals’ subjectivity in terms of attitudes, beliefs and values (the ‘halo’ eff ect) resulted in perceived bias which affected the reliability. Bias however, remains an issue to overcome and as such I felt the feedback received from my peers would not be accurate. Although the peer assessment process made us engage fully in the presentation and learn from the strengths and weaknesses of our peers, there is a need to develop the necessary skills and judgements to effectively manage peer assessments and this involves knowledge and experience (Oelofsen 2012, Somerville and Keeling, 2004). Furthermore, there is a need to be fully prepared and equipped, develop criteria that match the identified learning outcome, consider the issue of fairness particularly with disabled students and clearly communicate assessment criteria . The above reasons can be considered as areas for future development, an in depth analysis of this can be seen in the attached action plan (appendix 1). This process of reflection on action has proved successful as it brought about learning. Even though critics like Rolfe (2003) and Markham (2002) criticised reflective practice for lack of definition and unproven benefit. Taylor (2010) however argues that it is nevertheless worth the effort to bring about deeper insights and changes in practice and education. In conclusion, this essay has demonstrated an understanding of the peer assessment process by assessing the worth of our assessment tool on other students and the experience of being assessed by peers. Using a framework of choice, my experience was analysed and areas for further development identified and attached as appendix 1. Overall, this reflection has brought about deeper insights which identified strengths and weaknesses that would consequently enhance my professional development and result in changes in the future should the situation arise again.

Kafka’s Metamorphosis in Context to His Era Essay

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One of the major German writers was a Jewish, middle class resident of Prague, a man named Franz Kafka, who wrote disturbing, surreal tales. Writing in both short story and novel form, his work was published posthumously by a friend, Max Brod, who ignored his requests to burn his writings upon his death. Because his friend disobeyed his last request, Kafka’s work has become iconic in western literature, even producing its own connotations.   The term â€Å"Kafkaesque† has come to mean mundane yet absurd and surreal circumstances of the kind commonly found in Kafka’s works (â€Å"Kafka†,1).   Ã‚  Ã‚   One of the most widely read and famous of these works concerns a man who wakes up one day and discovers he is an insect. Literally. Known as Die Verwandlung or The Metamorphosis, Kafka wrote this story quickly, completing it between November and December 1912.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Because of its bizarre subject   matter, his tale has been subjected to a wide variety of interpretations. Although critics vary widely in those interpretations, the basic story involves a man who awakens in different form: he is now an insect; a â€Å"giant monstrous vermin;† yet all he wants to do is get to work. He has provided for his family and feels the pressure of helping them even now. However, in this new context , he cannot speak with his family members. Judging only by appearances,   his relatives becomes repulsed by him, calling him a burden. Each time he enters to try to be in their midst, they act mean; his father even goes so far as to throw an apple, which subsequently gets infected after it embeds in his back. Although Gregor becomes a veritable prisoner of his dirty, grimy room, his family does provide food and other nourishment-for a time. But they so abhor his appearance and treat him so despicably, that his sister finally declares that   â€Å" that thing must go.† His mother doesn’t even offer a word of protest. Because of his outsider status with his family, Gregor returns to his room one last time; desirous of relieving them of their burden. He lies down. And dies.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Both the structure and the setting of the story resemble that of a drama. The structure builds dramatically, with a series of three crises, leading to a denouement. Each section of the story has a defined area where the story takes place; a limited space as in plays.   With the exception of Gregor, the other characters are one dimensional.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Thus, Kafka works out of the traditional Aristotelian framework of three acts consisting of a beginning, middle, and end. Yet his style is ordinary. Has he been overrated? His plot is limited in scope, a series of episodes in the life of a character, rather than a full development. The characters are also limited. So what exactly did cause this Kafkan phenomenon?   Kafka dealt with the subject of contradiction and the absurd— with a sense of impotence against the absurd conditions and banalities of the world. Although not attracted to any â€Å"isms’ of thought philosophically, politically, artistically, or religiously, he simply expressed his own soul (Artile, 1).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Despite his lack of referencing, the wider world nevertheless laid claim to him.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Jews saw him as their own visionary. They were convinced he foresaw the arrival of the Holocaust. Yet Kafka was not a religious Jew, going to synagogue only four times yearly with his father and having a bar mitzvah at age 13. Too absorbed in his personal frustrations to pay much attention to political developments, Kafka could not help becoming cognizant of the increasing xenophobia and anti-Semitism of those around him. He thought that Palestine was a good solution and often talked of moving there to operate a cafà © with his girlfriend Dora. In the midst of the anti-Semitic riots of 1920 Berlin, he said that â€Å"the best course is to leave a place where one is hated† (Strickland, 2). Indeed, his own three sisters all died in concentration camps, a   fate that might also have awaited Kafka had he lived rather than dying of TB in 1924.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Although only a secular Jew, Kafka was nevertheless attracted to Yiddish theatre. The Metamorphosis has many parallels to a classic work of Yiddish theater called The Savage written by Gordin. The son Lemekh in this tale is â€Å"defective† like Gregor Samsa.   Outcasts who horrify, both characters are animal like creatures in decline. The central metaphor of The Metamorphosis corresponds to  Ã‚   Lemekh’s position in his own family. As the housekeeper states, ‘they kill him if he comes in here, so he lies in his own room, days on end, with his eyes open, and stares, like an animal, waiting to be sacrificed’ (Beck, 54).   Ã‚  Ã‚   Beck continues to state that the Oedipal conflict and the larger theme of incest is present in both works because the sons’ love for their mothers and sisters become confused with sexual desire. They become dizzy when they see their parents embrace. When Zelde touches Lemekh, he gets hot. Similarly, Gregor wants to save the picture of the lady in furs, crawling up the glass which soothed his hot body. Crawling shows his acceptance of his animal state- hiding when others enter, fainting- which intensifies the action and shows strong emotion. Lemekh in his iron jacket and Gregor in his armor plated hard back are both imprisoned, and spiritually limited. Gordin’s play warns of the beast in every man hiding beneath his human faà §ade. Kafka’s work also seems to be pointing to the vermin which every man inherently embodies (Beck, 56).   Ã‚  Ã‚   Other groups besides the Jews also embraced Kafka. Psychoanalytic Freudianism and   Existentialism saw reflections of their philosophies in his works. The Freudians saw every range from dreamlike qualities and Oedipal conflicts to symbolic odds and ids. Kafka’s feelings   for his own father reads like a transparent Oedipal story. Many critics were of the opinion that never before had Freud ruled so supremely over a story as he did The Metamophosis (Eggenschwiler, 72).   Ã‚  Ã‚   Existentialism took Kafka to be one of their own .Because he created characters who struggle with hopelessness and absurdity, many in the movement saw him as an icon, while others in the group were disillusioned with the western status quo of the 50s and the 60s. They distorted Kafka by exploiting the heavy atmosphere of his stories, using them as the basis for the need of a more liberal society with less state intervention and more truth for the individual.The existentialists abused truth by portraying a psychotic Kafka, victim of their same angst. The humor and mischief that was so dear to the surrealists that he loved is lost with that existentialist label ( Artile, 7).    One of the most obvious themes of The Metamorphosis concerns society’s treatment of those who are different and   the loneliness of being cut off; the desperate and unrealistic hope that isolation brings (â€Å"Kafka,†3).   Ã‚  Ã‚   In his pain and rejection Gregor Samsa was far from being everyman. And most readers will not be prepared to accept him as a universal symbol. Nevertheless, it is hard to avoid the condition in The Metamorphosis that Kafka was demonstrating; at least at that time; his own despairing, tragicomic vision of the human condition ( Beck, 57).   Ã‚   Kafka’s value will always lie in the inexplicable that it contains. Final understanding will probably remain an   impossibility. The various mid-century groups that took him as their hero never saw the complete picture of his artistic merits or original thought. Although many of his stories are inscrutable and baffling, Kafka himself looked upon his writing and the creativity he produced as a means of redemption (Artile, 7).   Ã‚   Thus his work transcends all the various interpretations that have been forced upon it and stands on its own merits, remaining an important part of the Western canon; work that is timeless. References Artile, G. â€Å"Kafka Work,†2002.   ( Retrieved June 23, 2006). www.kafka.org Bloom, H.ed. Franz Kafka’s the Metamorphosis. New York: Chelsea House, 1988   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Andersen, M. â€Å"Kafka and Sacher Masock.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Beck, E. â€Å"The Dramatic   in Kafka’s Metamorphosis.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Corngold, S. â€Å"Metamorphosis of the Metaphor.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Eggenschwile, D. â€Å"die Verlandlung, Freud, and the Chains of Odysseus.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Gray, R. â€Å"The Metamorphosis.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Greenberg,   M. â€Å"Gregor Samsa and Modern Spirituality.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Pascal, R. â€Å"The Impersonal Narrator of the Metamorphosis.† Kafka, Franz. Selected Short Stories. New York: Modern Library, 1952. â€Å"Kafka,† in Wikipedia 2006. (Retrieved, June 23, 2006). www.enwiki.org/kafka Strickland, Yancey. â€Å"Kafka in Berlin,† (2004). (Retrieved June 23, 2006).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   www.kafka.org.

Fascism in Europe Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Fascism in Europe - Term Paper Example Initially, fascism in Europe was associated with political personalities, leaders and parties. It is said to be founded by Benito Mussolini in Italy it influenced other politicians across the continent. It was further embraced by Adolf Hitler in Germany and Francisco in Spain. Fascism has been given some several definitions and some are discussed in this paper. Michael Mann (13) describes fascism as â€Å"the act of pursuing of an excellent (transcendent) and cleansing state using the military†. In this definition, transcendence means the belief that a state surpasses social conflicts and integrates all classes in society into one harmonious thing. It involves a political belief that political ideologies can surpass human understanding to produce an improved society. It involves a political belief that political ideologies can surpass human understanding to produce an improved society. According to Mann (1), cleansing in this meaning is concerned with ethnicity whereby, it is the favoring of one ethnic group over others. This can be done by giving special privileges to one group over others. Cleansing can be used politically whereby it involves silencing political opponents using oppressive measures so that fascism is facilitated. Fascism in the above meaning by Mann involves the conviction that the state can do anything it pleases. Paradigm involves undue influence of opponent by using armed forces. Fascism is described as a political behavior marked by amended cults of unity, purity and energy, in which a party consisting of many committed nationalists, working in difficult but collaborative form with traditional elites, abandon democratic liberations and engages in redeeming violence without ethical or legal limitations objectives of internal cleansing and expansion externally. In addition, fascism is described as military movement that created emphasis on loyalty and obedience to a state through the state leader. Unlike other ideologies such as commi ssion and nationalism, fascism had extremes of both communism and nationalism. Relationship between fascism, socialism and communism Fascism is closely associated with socialism and communism and is said to have originated and developed from the two. This is analyzed in the form of similarities and differences between the three sing the cases of Italy and Germany. The concept of socialism developed around 1800 Brian Marshall (6) highlights that socialism involves governance by a community whereby it controls all aspects of the economy. Furthermore, socialism is the system of economy whereby methods of production and distribution are collectively owned by the central government, which is mandated to plan, and control the economy. Moreover, socialism focused on social welfare of all the people in a society and did not focus on individualism. It advocated for co-operation between members of a society, and it did not encourage any political structures in the society. On the other hand, communism can be traced back to the works of Karl Maxx who coined the ideology of Marxism. According to Marshall (2), communism begun with ancient society supported by hunters, gatherers, and developed into feudalism, capitalism then to communism. In addition, communism is an economic philosophy whereby, the public owns and controls the methods of produc

Business and Management Research methods Assignment

Business and Management Research methods - Assignment Example The purpose of this essay is to review and summarize the article, and to include some definitions and preferably challenging research questions in the field. Likewise, the discourse would comply with the requirement of critically reviewing the paper by evaluating its weaknesses and strengths. Finally, suggested ways and opportunities for improving the paper would be presented after a comprehensive analytical and critical reflection is undertaken, as required. Summary of Relevant Details The authors recognized the increasing number of literatures written on the subject of online shopping and acknowledged three clearly defined purposes, to wit: (1) to identify and review current available research studies on online shopping related to media factors influencing buyer behavior and to pinpoint critical dimensions that emerge from these studies; (2) to evaluate and compare the key dimensions on online shopping behavior vis-a-vis traditional shopping channel behavior; and (3) to suggest fut ure thrusts for research on online shopping using the information gathered. ... The four key dimensions were discussed after the tabular presentation of summarized online literatures. The informativeness dimension was defined as an online category of consumer behavior that focuses on elements of â€Å"information relevancy, information accuracy, information comprehensiveness, and information interactivity† (Shen, et.al, 2006, 6). Each distinct variable was explained using various literatures on the subject. The manner by which information comprehensiveness, for instance, was proffered initially indicate that â€Å"information comprehensiveness is a measure of the amount of information furnished by the channel. Consumers expect a certain level of information, and when the information provided by the Web approaches this level, information comprehensiveness is enhanced† (ibid.). The theoretical framework used to explain customer service dimension presented two distinct studies conducted by Wolfinbarger and Gilly (2003) and Zeithaml, Parasuraman and Ma lhotra (2002) which identified customer service in terms of scales or levels. Wolfinbarger and Gilly (2003) clearly distinguished variables of reliability/fulfillment, as contrasted to security/privacy, as essential factors to ensure the effective delivery of products and services parallel to according satisfaction. The difference in presentation of data from the research study written by Zeithaml, Parasuraman and Malhotra (2002) falls into the manner by which security and privacy were treated as separate concepts of customer service. The delivery of products is another element taken into account under this dimension. The convenience dimension was presented by the authors by citing it as

Protecting Personally Identifiable Information and other ethical Research Paper

Protecting Personally Identifiable Information and other ethical issues - Research Paper Example Ethical issues arise from people’s behavior and established norms offer platforms for determining the issues, whether an act is ethical or not. Utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics are some of the established theories for exploring ethical issues. Brooks and Dunn explains utilitarian theory’s basis as consequences of actions and identify morality with consequences that optimizes good among a majority of involved stakeholders to the action. An act that leads to net harm on a majority of members of the society is therefore considered unethical (2009). Deontology offers another basis for determining morality through parties’ obligations in actions with rules as its core basis. Issues that arise from deontological ethics relates to â€Å"duty, rights, and justice considerations† and therefore definite, unlike arising issues from utilitarianism (Brooks and Dunn, 2009, p. 184). Intentions towards ethical issues, as a factor to morality however rely on v irtue ethics whose basis is the actor’s integrity (Landau, 2012). Protection of personally identifiable information is a significant ethical issue and involves such principles as privacy, confidentiality, and anonymity and traverses utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics theories. ... Breach of these doctrines, having been established as legal or moral rules and obligations, therefore implies lack of ethics subject to deontology theory. Many factors however affect the ethical issue and may influence compromise. In research, for example, a research may fear factors such as loss of validity in communicated findings following non-disclosure of participants’ identity and offered personal information but attempt to document such information would compromise autonomy, based on deontology ethics. The medical profession also requires strict protection of patients’ information and applicable information technology should be configured to ensure such protection. Possible harm that may result from disclosure of such identifiable information such as social isolation into the victim’s depression further identifies utilitarian theory (Runzheimer and Larsen, 2010). The need to promote well being of other members of the society is another significant ethical issue in interactions. Beneficence and non-malfeasance principles establish the issue that can be explored from utilitarian ethics, deontological theory, and virtue ethics. Beneficence requires that actions â€Å"maximize benefits† while non-malfeasance requires minimization of harm to other people and their directive scope relates to the rule based deontology theory (Elliot, Aitken and Chaboyer, 2011, p. 79). The issue’s emergence from actions also identifies them as consequences for utilitarian consideration. Proper planning for safe practices and beneficial acts ensure well being and minimized harm among stakeholders but conflict of interest may compromise the ethical principles to undermine welfare of involved stakeholders. A researcher’s interest in

Speech Recon Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Speech Recon - Assignment Example It is not unreasonable to assume therefore that in the future advanced speech recognition software will govern more and more of our common day to day activities (Li, 2004). One particular aspect that it is likely to replace is the job of the drive thru order taker. Everyday, tens of thousands of orders are placed and received by a human being; however, the fact of the matter is that there is no reason why speech recognition software would not be capable of doing the exact same task. Further, technical support automation is already something that has experienced a great deal of success. As such, it would not be a stretch to assume that at some point, calling your banking institution, cell phone provider, or electrical company could all be handled by speech recognition software; with a human only acting as a last resort back up for very complex and convoluted issues. Authors and futurologists have long feared the time in which computers/robots will take over a high number of jobs from humans; thereby stripping humanity of its wherewithal and ability to perform certain functions on their own. In the same way, having voice recognition software conceivably performing a majority of customer care/relations jobs will doubtless have a negative effect on consumer satisfaction as the consumer feels as if their business is unworthy of the time it would take a â€Å"real human† to answer their questions. In the end, the technology in and of itself is not a bad thing; however, its application if overused is troubling for the

Take Networking to the Next Level Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Take Networking to the Next Level - Assignment Example This experience helped her realize that networking as we know it’s much too superficial to allow individuals to really find a connection and be able to utilize our connections and interpersonal relationships. Building an effective network is not just about searching for jobs, is about getting to know individuals on a personal and professional level, their experiences, skill set, interests and their passions. It’s about connecting individuals, helping each other, and learning how we can be an asset to each other on a professional and personal level. Tashee worked diligently for years at a company where she provided her best efforts to achieve the best results in her work. Four years later the company told her that she was under performing which came as a shock to her. Feeling insecure rediscovering networking through her professional association helped her better know herself, her strengths, goals and her networking colleagues helped identify her weaknesses and work in t hose areas that needed further development. CRITIQUE As the article states creating an effective network is not just about handing out a business card and a hand shake, is about building and nurturing interpersonal relationships. The process of building an effective network is a continuous process where we build a solid foundation for any future situation that might come up, from staying ahead of the competition through sharing information to finding an expert with a particular core competency. It's not just about meeting people, but getting to know them in a professional and personal level. It is not about interviewing a person, but an exchange of information where simple questions such as where a person went to school, what their hobbies are, and gaining insight about their personalities, their future goals, aspirations and what makes them tick is the key to building rapport with the individual. People in general like to talk about themselves and our job is to probe, listen, show genuine interest and have a real conversation where we share relevant information about ourselves since networking is a really a two-way street. Although the article provides some general insights about how to network effectively, it does not go into details as far the right techniques and guidelines to gain people's trust and create real relationships and effectively network. The art of small talk is the starting point of any relationship, whether is professional or romantic. Never underestimate the power of casual conversation, since most networking starts here. Expand your horizons by engaging in conversation with people you meet through your normal routine not only at work, but also in your everyday life (Hope). As a rule one must be genuinely interested in building relationships with others in order to network effectively. If one is not careful a simple networking conversation can turn negative really quick if the other person can tell that you are not genuinely interested, but are using them as a means to an end to gain information about their contacts and not as a mutual learning experience for both parties involved. There are many reasons why networking can help drive career success. Effective networking can he

Operations management-report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Operations management-report - Essay Example Additionally, key focus is on managing people in an effective manner where skill sets are analysed and accordingly responsibilities are offered in a systematic and planned manner. It was also found that Just in Time concept has helped the organisation in eliminating chances of huge wastage along with responding to the changes in the business and social environment. Overall, it was concluded that Total Quality Management (TQM is also practiced by the organisation helping in maintaining high quality standards. All these initiatives have helped the company to strengthen its operational framework along with being successful. Slack, et al (2010) stated that operations management is concerned with designing, controlling, and overseeing production processes along with redesigning business processes for better production of goods and services. Hill and Hill (2011) added that operations management ensures that business operations are efficient enough to use little but impactful and robust resources exceeding customers’ expectations in a meaningful manner. Simon (2010) added that operations management is concerned with the conversion of inputs in the form of raw material and energy into the output offering value and benefits to a number of customers. Slack, et al (2010) further added that operations management has a close relationship with business operations and the success of the later can only define the success of the former. In this regard, it is important to analyse the business operations and processes in a critical manner. Heizer and Render (2010) added that the senior management needs to develop business strategies and line officers need to take tactical decisions in order to make business operations successful. Simon (2010) stated that the success of operations management is dependent on formulating robust business objectives along with aligning

Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 6

Annotated Bibliography Example To this end, the author contends that legal sanctions that have been described have not been deterent enough to wage offenders from it. Unlike Rooy (2004) who sees civil liability as the best offence to dishonor of checks, Muntingh prefers a criminal liability. Rooy (2004) has been a practicing international banker for several years. He also doubles as a criminologist. In writing this article therefore, he reviewed some of the international approaches that have been put in place to reduce various crimes associated with financial fraud. In the opinion of the author, a major breakthrough came for international trade when documentary credits were introduced. Unlike Muntingh (2007), Rooy sees the civil liability that has been associated with various forms of trade frauds including the dishonor of checks as highly suitable for the prescribed offences. The author has been a practicing security expert for several years and have had several approved articles published in international journals including the present one. In the current article, the author embraces the documentary credit as a breakthrough for ensuring security with international payment. The reason is that it limits the rate at which traders would have to carry physical cash in the transaction of trade. But in order that the advantages of documentary credit be enjoyed to the maximum, the author, unlike Rooy (2004) assets that there should be the introduction of criminal liabilities all across regions that see checks as Bills of Exchange. Muntingh, J. A. (2007). The Fraud Exception in the Context of Documentary Credits: A Comparative Study of the Remedies in Various Jurisdictions. LL.M dissertation, Journal de Stellenbosch University, ProQuest, 4 (3), 43 -

Natural Resources Essay Example for Free

Natural Resources Essay Adequate water supplies of high quality are necessary both for community use and local ecosystems. Communities and jurisdictions must work together to assure an adequate water supply to meet future needs. This section presents resources to aid in that effort. * Energy Communities require energy. Nonrenewable sources for power generation, home and workplace, and transportation cause pollution and its harmful impacts. Energy conservation and the use of renewable fuels provide cost-effective and more sustainable alternatives. This section contains resources available to make energy use more efficient. Air and Climate Both the natural ecosystem and human health can be adversely impacted by declining air quality and climatic change. Communities can preserve air quality by limiting or eliminating the discharge of harmful chemicals into the air and by minimizing the sources of air pollution. This section contains resources and approaches that address air quality and climate change. * Biodiversity Biodiversity is particularly important for creating sustainability because of the specialized roles each species plays in maintaining ecological balance. Communities can promote healthy wildlife by supporting integrative approaches for managing, protecting, and enhancing wildlife populations and habitats appropriate to their area. Some examples are given here. * Land, Forests, and Ecosystems While providing a protective covering for soil, water, and the atmosphere, forests are also renewable sources of an endless variety of products. In a healthy ecosystem, policies and programs must balance economic and conservation needs. This section highlights cases where communities have developed land use practices and businesses that both conserve ecosystems and enhance local economies. Read more:Â  Essay on Natural Resources and Their Conservation

Employee development (ED) Essay Example for Free

Employee development (ED) Essay The purpose of ED can be defined as developing human potential to assist organizations and individuals to achieve their objectives. (Redman Wilkinson, 2001 p.129). Since the impact of the globalization, the new positioning and competitive competences of the company will bring the HR department new challenges of finding effective career paths for their global employees. A study conducted by the Global Leadership Institute shows a positive relationship between the level of employee internationalization and the organizations Return on Assets. (Black et al, 1999, p1). Thats why according to Black an international assignment is the single most powerful experience in shaping the perspective and capabilities of effective global leadersA global assignment play important roles in succession planning and leadership development; in coordination and control; and in technology, innovation, and information exchange and dissemination. According to a survey by the National Foreign Trade Council, the number of Americans working overseas, jumped 30% in 1995. Of the 74 companies the NFTC polled, 71% said they expect this growth to continue. (Hayes et al, 1996) However, somewhere between 25and 40 per cent of foreign assignments fail in US transnationals. (Stonehouse et al, 2000,p.210). In fact, 20% to 48% of expatriates leave their companies within the first year of returning from an international assignment In a Business Horizons survey of 135 repatriated employees, only 39% felt their firm used their newly acquired skills; a meager 29% claimed that the assignments helped their careers. (Hayes et al, 1996). Such a failure is partly due to the mismatch between the organizational goals and personal goals, which is the main purpose of ED. Other reasons are: * Lack of training, this includes language and cross culture training. A recent survey conducted by Runzheimer International, found that only 42% of the 54 multinational companies polled had any formal training program for acculturating expatriates with their host country. (Hayes et al, 1996). * Family-related problems are perhaps the most important cause of failure amongst expatriates (Harvey, 1985). Such family problems include relating to the adaptation of both spouse and children to a new cultural and social environment. (Stonehouse et al, 2000,p.210) * Inadequate compensation (Stonehouse et al, 2000,p.210) * Feeling of loss of status resulting from working at the periphery. (Stonehouse et al, 2000,p.210) * Expatriates are often staying within the circle of the emigrant community, (Hayes et al, 1996) which reduces the chances to communicate with local culture and create a barrier between local people and them. * With international assignments becoming more commonplace, few companies are implying that there is any career advancement on the horizon for taking oneMany of the who have been on overseas assignments come back and move right back where they were (Hayes et al, 1996) Thus, make the employees think that their career path is stopped or blurred. In order to provide the employees a smooth international career development path, as well as to create an internationalized employees pool, organizations thus have to design a more systematic ED plan. This plan will include a clear definition of the international assignment, full training of the language and culture, effective expatriate policies, etc. For those MNCs with various employees come from different backgrounds, because of the culture impact, employees will have different views of career path. For example, in achievement-oriented corporation in western countries, young, promising managers are often sent on challenging assignment to faraway countries, whereas in ascribing cultures, older people, males, highly qualified persons are sent for those independent tasks or specific functions. (Trompenaars et al, 1998) Thus, organizations have to fully understand the career meaning to all of its employees and develop different career themes. References Stonehouse, G., Hamill, J., Campell, D., and Purdie,T., (2000) Global and transnational business: strategy and management, John WileySons, Ltd., UK Black, J.S., Gregersen, H., Mendenhall, M and Stroh,.L. (1999) The Strategic Role of Global Assignment, in Globalizing People Through International Assignments. London: Addison-Wesley. Pp. 1-31 Redman, T. and Wilkinson, A., (2001) Contemporary Human Resource Management, Prentice Hall Cassandra, H. (1996) The intrigue of international assignments in Black Enterprise, 26(10), pg. 98, NY Harvey, M.C. (1985) the executive family: an overlooked variable in international assignments, Columbia journal of world business, Spring. Tromenaars, F. and Turner, C.H (1998) Riding the waves of culture: understanding cultural diversity in business, Nicholas Brealey Publishing Ltd.,London

Determinants of GDP in an Economy

Determinants of GDP in an Economy Research Ethics Introduction GDP (gross domestic product) is the main indicator of any economy’s growth. Every country’s economy works for improving its GDP because it is the type of indicator which shows overall state of affairs the Economy is in or rather the conditions of the State in terms of its Economic Growth. GDP is considered as the national income of any country. GDP is the monetary value of all final goods and services produced in the country[1]; mostly it is counted at annual basis. There are 3 approaches or methods to calculate the GDP of the country, which are as follows: Income approach Product approach Expenditure approach All these have listed methods have their own significance in terms of calculating the GDP. The most widely used method by many countries to count the GDP is; the income approach. The Income approach is based on the method in which all the revenues or income circulating in economy like wages, interest rate, rent and profits are accumulated. The Product Approach counts the value of all final goods that is produced in the economy. This is done so to avoid the double counting of the product value. The Expenditure approach counts all private and public expenditures which were conducted in an Economy. In other words it is all the money spent by the Government for the benefit of the People[2]. GDP is affected by every determinant and variable in the economy. The effectiveness could be low or high it depending on the variable. For example if we were to say that education is one of the factors that affects the GDP so the effectiveness must be very high because it effect in multiple ways like it increases the human capital, it increase the technological levels, it helps to reduce crime in society etc. GDP is usually low in developing countries and high in the developed countries. The level of GDP is a matter of concern for the Economy; although the stability of Economy can be found out by observing variation in GDP[3]. One of the reasons of success of developed countries is also their consistency in terms of GDP levels. However one cannot ignore the fact that there are many factors behind the consistency of GDP. Research Design The design of research is always extracted from literature review section. There is a strong relationship between literature review and research methodology or research design[4]. For designing research for GDP first researchers need to collect and read all the related articles; from where researchers can find out about the factors which are effecting the GDP. The process of reviewing literature is to collect all the bibliography of articles on GDP then start reviewing it one by one. After review of article the researcher should write in literature review about the hypothesis questions which he has identified from the review portion of literature. The data used in articles, methodology applied, findings of the research posting of recommendations and conclusions. These are the important findings of any research article. From reviewing the article it is extracted that GDP is mainly depend on investment, human capital and on interest rate. The data which we use is secondary data and we tend to find out how the GDP of developing countries is affected by investments[5], human capital and education. We use the data of these variables on several previous years to identify or predict the trend of the GDP of the existing year. Hence from review of literature we find that in research design we use the methodology of panel or pool regression because the data is panel in nature. Panel data means the data is based on more than one year (number of periods) and observing more than one country (cross sectional unit). Data Collection There are basically two types of data primary data and secondary data. The primary data are used mostly for qualitative methods and secondary data are used mostly for quantitative data. Primary data are the data which is firsthand experience like data collected from surveys by researcher as far as secondary data which is often found in forms of a published data. Our study is quantitative study and based on secondary data because we use published data from authentic source such as government publications. The procedure of data collection is divided in several parts. Firstly researcher does planning and finalizes the general topic in which researcher has command and deep knowledge, then the researcher finds all the relevant article for that topic and also collect different literature from websites, books, manuals and other resources. After reviewing all these material a concept is developed in the mind of researcher that what variable researcher will use and which cross sectional countries the researcher will select and run the tests on and of course for how many years does he intend to run tests on. i.e. for instance In order to find out the GDP of UK for 2016, the researcher may run tests on from a period of 2010 to 2015 to predict the GDP trends and forecast the outlook of GDP in UK. In the relevant study we find from many resources that investments, human capital and interest rate are the key factors which effect GDP of developing countries. The data we will use for developing countries and for the year 2000 to 2014. The data is available on world development bank. We can extract data from world development indicators. All of the data is available on WDI quite easily. The articles which researcher has studied are used for referencing purposes and given in detail in bibliography section of the Research Project. Strengths and Weaknesses Documentary research, is characterized by the use of documents; collects, selects, analyzes and presents consistent results; because it uses the logical and mental processes of any investigation; analysis, synthesis, deduction, induction, etc., because it performs a process of scientific abstraction, generalization based on the fundamentals; because it is an appropriate data collection that allow rediscover facts suggest problems, orient to other research sources, direct ways to develop research tools and develop scenarios[6]. At the same time, it can be considered as a fundamental part of a much broader process of scientific research, and finishing; it is a research carried out in an orderly and targeted, in order to be based on the construction of knowledge, and based on the use of different techniques: location and setting data, analysis of documents and content[7]. In turn, the bibliographic research allows, among other things, support research to be performed, avoid undertaking investigations already carried out, take cognizance of experiments and made to repeat when necessary, continuing interrupted or incomplete investigations, search for suggestive information, select materials for a theoretical framework, among other purposes.[8] Ethical Consideration In every study there are some ethics of research which the researcher should keep in mind. These ethics are essential components while doing the research. There is a component of relevance which means that the study that researcher is doing it should be related to the literature review and relate to the references and bibliography that have been used in the study. Another component of ethics is completeness which describe that the sources should be complete in the sense that whole study have to be referenced and the study should give complete picture so that it is find interesting by reader[9]. Another component is current approach it means the study should meet the current approaches of subject it should not be old or far behind of today’s modern research in that subject. It should also highlight the recent and latest development in the study. Our study meets all the ethical components efficiently because we give the references o related studies and our research is a complete package and also it is up to date research because the issue persists in several developing countries. Conclusion Conclusion is the last part of study which not only concludes research but also give recommendations to the problem that has been discussed in the study. GDP is the base of any economy and the indicators which researcher pick for testing their effectiveness to GDP are investment, human capital and interest rate. Researcher observes that all these 3 variables are significant but investment and human capital effect GDP in positive way as far as interest rate is concerned it affects the GDP in a negative way because when interest rate increase people tend to save more and decrease their investment. References http://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/gdp.asp Landefeld, Steven J., Eugene P. Seskin, and Barbara M. Fraumeni. Taking the pulse of the economy: Measuring GDP.The Journal of Economic Perspectives22, no. 2 (2008): 193-193. Demirgà ¼Ãƒ §-Kunt, Asli, and Enrica Detragiache.The determinants of banking crises-evidence from developing and developed countries. Vol. 106. World Bank Publications, 1997. Janesick, Valerie J. The dance of qualitative research design: Metaphor, methodolatry, and meaning. (1994). Tanzi, Vito, and Hamid Davoodi.Corruption, public investment, and growth. Springer Japan, 1998. Creswell, John W.Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches. Sage, 2012. Punch, Keith F.Introduction to social research: Quantitative and qualitative approaches. Sage, 2013. Bryman, Alan.Social research methods. Oxford university press, 2012. Guillemin, Marilys, and Lynn Gillam. Ethics, reflexivity, and â€Å"ethically important moments† in research.Qualitative inquiry10, no. 2 (2004): 261-280. [1] http://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/gdp.asp [2] Landefeld, Steven J., Eugene P. Seskin, and Barbara M. Fraumeni. Taking the pulse of the economy: Measuring GDP.The Journal of Economic Perspectives22, no. 2 (2008): 193-193. [3] Demirgà ¼Ãƒ §-Kunt, Asli, and Enrica Detragiache.The determinants of banking crises-evidence from developing and developed countries. Vol. 106. World Bank Publications, 1997. [4] Janesick, Valerie J. The dance of qualitative research design: Metaphor, methodolatry, and meaning. (1994). [5] Tanzi, Vito, and Hamid Davoodi.Corruption, public investment, and growth. Springer Japan, 1998. [6] Creswell, John W.Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches. Sage, 2012. [7] Punch, Keith F.Introduction to social research: Quantitative and qualitative approaches. Sage, 2013. [8] Bryman, Alan.Social research methods. Oxford university press, 2012. [9] Guillemin, Marilys, and Lynn Gillam. Ethics, reflexivity, and â€Å"ethically important moments† in research.Qualitative inquiry10, no. 2 (2004): 261-280.

Jean Jacques Audubon :: Expository Essays

Jean Jacques Audubon Realizing that the natural environment requires protection from the wiles of the human race, individuals have organized societies that work to support the protection of species around the globe. I have always loved and supported those that support the environment. So, when I would hear of the National Audubon Society, I instinctively pictured Audubon as a wildlife conservationist and someone I liked very much. I heard about Jean Jacques Audubon before, and at least I thought I knew him very well. But my perception of Audubon always stemmed from his association to the society named after him, not from the writings of the man himself. Needless to say, I liked him very much when I knew less about him. Or so I thought†¦ Never have my feelings toward an individual fluctuated as much as they have in the past two weeks. Upon reading excerpts from Audubon’s journals, I could not help but dislike certain aspects of the individual. How could any society uphold the name of a man who would shoot birds by the dozen and stick wire through them to paint them? Artists are supposed to appreciate the natural world, not destroy it. At the same time, how could he depict reality, if his specimens were manipulated into specific positions, positions that met the painter’s eye and not reality at all? These thoughts and many more spiraled through my mind as my stomach squirmed in indignation of Audubon’s atrocities. I was livid at the fact that the plentitude of living species he described are no longer plentiful today. I could not believe that a naturalist was among the first to contribute to the decline of the species of my home state. Even the name of his pilot, Egan, sent chills through me wh en Audubon wrote that Egan was the ‘professional hunter of Sea Cows or Manatees for the Havana market’. I could not believe my eyes and cringed at the idea of reading any more about the famous Audubon expedition. In my mind, Audubon registered, not as a painter, but as a hunter, who was hell-bent on getting his studies done in time to meet the expectation of his American and European patrons. Dollar signs, not the sun, glittered in his eyes. I found myself rooting for one hundred and seventy-two year old birds, hoping that they would hear me and fly away before Audubon arrived. Jean Jacques Audubon :: Expository Essays Jean Jacques Audubon Realizing that the natural environment requires protection from the wiles of the human race, individuals have organized societies that work to support the protection of species around the globe. I have always loved and supported those that support the environment. So, when I would hear of the National Audubon Society, I instinctively pictured Audubon as a wildlife conservationist and someone I liked very much. I heard about Jean Jacques Audubon before, and at least I thought I knew him very well. But my perception of Audubon always stemmed from his association to the society named after him, not from the writings of the man himself. Needless to say, I liked him very much when I knew less about him. Or so I thought†¦ Never have my feelings toward an individual fluctuated as much as they have in the past two weeks. Upon reading excerpts from Audubon’s journals, I could not help but dislike certain aspects of the individual. How could any society uphold the name of a man who would shoot birds by the dozen and stick wire through them to paint them? Artists are supposed to appreciate the natural world, not destroy it. At the same time, how could he depict reality, if his specimens were manipulated into specific positions, positions that met the painter’s eye and not reality at all? These thoughts and many more spiraled through my mind as my stomach squirmed in indignation of Audubon’s atrocities. I was livid at the fact that the plentitude of living species he described are no longer plentiful today. I could not believe that a naturalist was among the first to contribute to the decline of the species of my home state. Even the name of his pilot, Egan, sent chills through me wh en Audubon wrote that Egan was the ‘professional hunter of Sea Cows or Manatees for the Havana market’. I could not believe my eyes and cringed at the idea of reading any more about the famous Audubon expedition. In my mind, Audubon registered, not as a painter, but as a hunter, who was hell-bent on getting his studies done in time to meet the expectation of his American and European patrons. Dollar signs, not the sun, glittered in his eyes. I found myself rooting for one hundred and seventy-two year old birds, hoping that they would hear me and fly away before Audubon arrived.

Animals Deserve Rights Essay -- Argumentative Persuasive Argument Essa

Animals Deserve Rights It is the notion of our time that non-human animals exist for the advancement of the human species. In whatever field -- cookery, fashion, blood-sports -- it is held that we can only be concerned with animals as far as human interests exist. There may be some sympathy for those animals, as to limit practices which cause excruciating suffering, but those may only be limited if they are brought to public light, and if legislators receive enough pressure from the public to change. However, it is the purpose of this essay to convince the reader otherwise. The question at hand is: do animals deserve rights? It must certainly be true. Humans deserve rights and this claim is made on numerous appeals. Of one of the pertinent pleas is made on the claim that humans can feel emotions. More importantly, that humans are capable of suffering, and that to inflict such pain is unethical. Those who observe the tortures of the Nazi Concentration Camp are instilled with a humane creed held for all humans. But if there is no significant gulf between humans, that is to say there is no gulf based on skin color, creed, or gender that will make one human more or less valuable than any other, then by what right can a gulf be drawn out between humans and our fellow creatures? The suffering of humans is why we sympathize with each other. Since animals suffer, they deserve our sympathy. There is no real gulf separating the species. We all can feel suffering in the same manner. A racist's reasoning is flawed because he claims that one race is undeserving of sympathy, despite that it may be capable of suffering. Similarly, to claim that an animal deserves no rights or sympathy is faulty on the same reasoning. It creates a gu... ..., economics, and humaneness prefer otherwise. Therefore, Vegetarianism is the first logical step in Animal Rights. If we continue to kill and eat them, then what real recognition of their rights has there been? Another area where their rights are disregarded is in blood-sports, where creatures are hunted and killed for some sake of pleasure -- that terror in the hearts of animals brings warmth to the hearts of men. Vivisection, or experimental torture, is another area. To advance knowledge, they will sacrifice the lives of millions, to die in brutal and heartless tortures. The advancement of humaneness will come with abolition of these cruel and vicious practices. Those of us who work for the progression of the rights of animals and for truly equal rights of conscious beings are bold and ardent in our efforts. For the betterment of our fellow creatures is our cause.

Napoleons Failure to Dominate Europe Essay -- history

Napoleon's Failure to Dominate Europe A ruler's reputation comes from the change that he inflicts upon his subjects, territory, and surrounding lands. Napoleon Bonaparte rose into power during the French Revolution, causing drastic changes not only to France, but to the rest of Europe as well. His domestic and foreign policies were not always successful, but his ability to rule was undeniable. From his rising in power and reform of France, up until his military defeat in Russia, Napoleon succeeded in gaining a considerate amount of power and control. In France, Napoleon used his power to make many reforms in all aspects of life. He incorporated a national bank, public schools, and constructed new roads. With these changes, he also enforced the Concordat of 1801 and the Napoleonic Codes of Law. While the Concordat focused mainly on Church affairs, the Code Napoleon covered a broad spectrum of new ideas and reforms. Code Napoleon made France "more peaceful at home than it had been for many years," (Modern Times 58) and it was one of his "most lasting domestic achievements." (World History 641) It was made to have one code of laws for all of France, instead of many separate legal systems. The Civil Code recognized each individual's equality and privileges. Some other changes included the supporting of religious toleration, right of divorce, and civil marriage. Private property, inheritance, and business laws were affected as well. Promotion for civil and military offi...

07.03 Immigration

Graphic Organizer: Immigrant Journals| Lee Chew| Mary Antin| What is the main idea expressed in the author’s journal? | Â  Mistreatment of the Chinese| Â  The equality and freedom in America| Is the author happy or unhappy with his/her experience in America? | Â  Unhappy| Â  Happy| Explain one experience the author had that reflects his/her view of America. | Â  He talks about how he is unable to bring his wife to America over from China or marry an American woman, but how the Irish, Germans, Englishmen, and Italians are treated much nicer than the Chinese. She talks about how she was able to go to school without fees, examinations, machinations, rulings, and no questions asked. She was able to get education for free. | List at least three words from the journal entries that reflect the author’s point of view toward America. | Â  Mean, Misfortune, and Ignorant| Â  Hope, Delight, and Treasure | Two of the writers, Emma and Mary, thought of America as a place of fr eedom and hope, while the third writer, Lee saw that America as an injustice place to live.Mary’s journal excerpt was her experience of coming at living in America for the first time. Her story was a story of hope and happiness, of a little Russian girl able to receive free education with no tests, papers, or anything really in return. Emma’s poem was also very hopeful and happy. Instead of writing about her story of coming to America, she wrote about the symbolism that the Statue of Liberty held.She saw the Statue of Liberty as a place Americas welcoming to the homeless, jobless, and the poor. Were all those people could have a second chance of life and a first chance of freedom, but Lee’s point of view differs with these two writers. He believes that America is an unfair to his race and culture, while other immigrants get treated better. He feels discriminated and that nobody will do or does anything to help him and the rest of his Chinese culture.In my opinio n, I believe our attitudes, as Americans, toward immigrants are very different from the sentiments stated on the Statue of Liberty. Most Americans would not want to welcome the homeless and poor. Also many Americans feel that immigrants are taking jobs away from American citizens; especially now in that we are in a recession. So most Americans would probably have a ver changed opinion from the sentiments of the Statue of Liberty.

Machiavelli: The Realist Essay

Machiavelli revolutionized the way the worldviews politics. However, when we read his writings today, the ideas don’t seem very revolutionary. This is because his thoughts came to embody political structure. Machiavelli is known for being the first political philosopher to apply realism to politics. Machiavelli wanted to find a solution to his dark reality. Machiavelli’s The Prince presents us with the reality of the political arena, and provides us with the tools to work with human nature and its shortcomings. The Prince was written as a guide for Lorenzo de’Medici of Florence to stay in power. However, Lorenzo did not agree with Machiavelli’s assumptions. Machiavelli wants to restore pride and honor to Italy (Lerner, 1950). He offers a guide of how to accomplish this in the Prince. Machiavelli wrote the Prince when Europe was engulfed in civil wars. Machiavelli challenged the idea of divine right (Lerner, 1950). Machiavelli proposed the evolution of a ne w ruler, not chosen by divine right or heritage, but by military conquest. Previous to the publication of The Prince, Machiavelli had witnessed devastation in Italy (Lerner, 1950). Machiavelli witnessed how power struggles and contradicting principles lead to the destruction of his nation. He wanted to offer a solution to his reality in The Prince. A nation wants stability, security, and prosperity. If the prince can provide all three while maintaining the common wealth of the people, then the ends justify the means. During the time at which Machiavelli wrote The Prince, these were revolutionary thoughts. Machiavelli’s writing was revolutionary for humanists in this era. He chose not analyze rule with divine foundations (Lerner, 1950). He rejected the notion of theology and divine right. Machiavelli decided to take a unique route. Machiavelli’s work is based on political realism. Machiavelli was the first to openly distinguish what we believe man to be, and who he really is. By acknowledging what human nature truly is, he was able to analyze the ways in which Princes can manipulate the people and their power to create a stable nation. This realism had never before been brought into political  thinking. Machiavelli argues that an ordinary citizen is the best person to analyze the ruling party. He argues that his bird’s eye view is the reason he is best suited for such analysis, â€Å"For the aim of the people is more honest than that of nobility, the latter desiring to oppress, and the former merely to avoid oppression† (Santoni, 112). Machiavelli acknowledges what Politics are rather then what then what we want them to be. Machiavelli does not say that politics can do everything and he does not say that politics can solve all societies problems. In The Prince, Machiavelli lays down the foundation for what a governor can do to maintain security, prosperity, and stability. Machiavelli does however, acknowledge that he cannot explain human nature, but rather the patterns that lie within it. Machiavelli acknowledges that he is an observer in The Prince. He uses an analogy of a man on a hill to explain the nature of his observation (Lerner, 1950). The man on the hill has t he best view of the landscape. As a citizen he has observed the patterns in decision-making made by politicians and was able to interpret them. Politics cannot answer all the questions in our society. Political thinking can only help to provide us with the framework with which we govern and are governed. The conflicting ethical principles are what cause the controversy. Machiavelli acknowledges this fact and shows that ethics are not what define politics, but are rather a component. Machiavelli argues that a Prince must be able to manipulate the attitudes of the people. Machiavelli speaks of the state. He speaks of national stability. He acknowledges that citizens and there beliefs are components of the state. The political realism emphasized in The Prince does not simply mean to accept ‘reason of the state’ as legitimacy and letting liberties be crushed (Lerner, 1950). The realism urges leaders to strive for coercion of principles. A leader unified under his people is most powerful. In The Prince, Machiavelli offers a solution to the unsuccessful development of states. The Prince gains territory by victory and sets solid foundations for the territory to flourish upon, â€Å"One, however, who becomes Prince by favor of the populace, must maintain friendship, which he will find easy, the people asking nothing but not to be oppressed†(Santoni, 1950). Machiavelli believes that a good nation with just laws will develop from an efficient military. He is not arguing that you need a war to create a state,  but rather a successful victory can create a solid foundation of the state. Machiavelli understands human nature and decides to work with it rather than disregard our flaws. He knows we are not all good, but acknowledges that there is potential for us to change (Lerner, 1950). Machiavelli does not argue that the goals of politicians are always good. Machiavelli acknowledges that politicians ruthlessly seek power (Lerner, 1950). They do not care how it will affect the people. This is where a politician’s career crumbles. As noted in The Prince, you cannot rule a populace who hates you. They will overthrow you. Therefore, a prince must unite the people under his rule in order to obtain success. Human nature is the evil that is unconquerable. People will never stop having selfish motives. Therefore, we must learn to coordinate these desires. The Prince must give the people stability, security and prosperity. If he does this, then the people will dare not challenge him. Machiavelli does not provide us with an explanation of basic human nature but rather a framework, which we can use to govern and be governed. Machiavelli wants to improve politics. In the Prince he offers a plan of how to govern and how the people should be governed. He accepts that human nature is flawed. He knows that rulers are power hungry (Lerner, 1950). He also acknowledges that a ruler will not have a populace to rule if the populace hates him. Machiavelli accepts what our politics is, and tells us of what it should be. Just because human nature is flawed, doesn’t mean we are hopeless. Humanity can achieve prosperity, security, and stability if achieved within the right framework. This framework is presented in The Prince. Machiavelli is simply providing genuine insights into social organization as the foundation for Politics (Lerner, 1950). He is clear and logical. Emotion and ethics are only a small part of Machiavelli’s framework, â€Å"Everybody sees what you appear to be, few feel what you are, and those few will not dare oppose themselves to the many, who have the majesty of the state to defend them† (Santoni, 123). Machiavelli provides guidance for leaders for tasks such as dealing with newly acquired territory, choosing administrators, how to conduct diplomacy, and warfare (Lerner, 1950). Machiavelli gives specific examples of the way to govern newly acquired territory. He uses various situations by which a Prince could  acquire new territory and how he should govern the territory. Machiavelli is sensitive to the principles of the people of the newly acquired territory. He acknowledges that the people will overthrow the leader if he crosses them, â€Å"One who by his own valor and measures animates the mass of the people, he will not find himself deceived by them, he will find he has laid his foundations well† (Santoni, 114). To be a Prince you must be feared by your people, but not hated. Hatred will lead to destruction. Machiavelli wants the prince to form an atmosphere in which the people fear him, but also highly respect him (Lerner, 1950). The fear comes from the potential use of force by the Prince’s military against them. Machiavelli argues that a prince’s sole obligation is to protect the nation; a prince is in control of the military an d is in charge of national security. By proving military dominance, you gain power (Lerner, 1950). With this power, you can manipulate the interests of the people. Machiavelli believes that humans are in control of their actions that curb their destinies. Machiavelli also argues that humans do not have control over all events. A prince must only take into account what benefits the state when making decisions concerning the state. Machiavelli acknowledges that it is not morality of divinity that will get Italy out of this terrible mess (Lerner, 1950). Machiavelli argues that self-interest and self-protection, hence national interests, should be pursued ruthlessly. A prince can only commit cruelty if his ends justify his means, â€Å"A prince, therefore, must not mind incurring the charge of cruelty for the purpose of keeping his subjects united and faithful†(Santoni, 113). If he is being cruel for the benefit of the nation, then so be it, â€Å"In the actions of men and especially of Princes, from which there is no appeal, the end justifies the means† (Santoni, 123). Many criticized Machiavelli for being Anti-Christ and attempting to redirect our society towards immorality (Lerner, 1950). These people could not come to grasp with reality. They did not want to believe his words were true. It is apparent that Machiavelli’s ideas were far beyond his time. All humans have part of them that is ethical and normative, but we are also stubborn (Lerner, 1950). This stubbornness results in two sides of political thought. Those who pursue some passionate ideal and those who accept reality and look for solutions to our shortcomings. The prince embodies the foundations for Politics; the struggle between ethical or realistic reasoning. Machiavelli does not adhere to the  ideas of reformers or idealists. He is a realist. He gives concrete examples of ways in which a prince should govern and how a people are to be ruled. Ideals and ethics are not powerful techniques in politics. A successful statesman is an artist (Lerner, 1950). He knows how to manipulate the attitudes of the people by providing them with stability and prosperity. Religious leaders can raise moral, but they have never proven to be more powerful then a statesman (Lerner, 1950). Even in the development of the American colonies, men of god who were brought to power learned how to use their power corruptly (Lerner, 1950). Today, and during Machiavelli’s era, we are faced with a world of conflicting principalities. The struggle we face today is how much to integrate our principles to help obtain peace (Lerner, 1950). How far can we integrate before liberties are lost? What are we willing to sacrifice? Machiavelli explains that he is an observer of politics. He cannot add an ethical context to the patterns he has observed in history. He simply observed the patterns and interpreted conclusions that can be gained from them. Thus Machiavellianism provides structure, but does not provide an adequate philosophy for a way of life (Lerner, 1950). Machiavelli sought to prove what politics really is, not what we believe to be. We fear Machiavelli because he speaks the truth. Machiavelli acknowledges that leaders do not always act according to the virtues they said they would act upon. Machiavelli argues that leaders seek power ruthlessly (Lerner, 1950). He acknowledges that it is easy to be ruled but hard to rule ourselves. He also acknowledges that those in different forms of government need to be dealt with differently (Lerner, 1950). Rulers of Machiavelli’s time despised him because he let the world know how their authority works. In modern society we hate Machiavelli because he is making us face the dilemma we have created (Lerner, 1950). He made visible all that which we chose to ignore. Deceit and ruthlessness are present in all governments. Machiavelli causes us to face our major issue of adapting our democratic techniques to the demands of the world (Lerner, 1950). Machiavelli’s thoughts are not unpolitical. They are in fact extremely political. Machiavelli was able to observe patterns in government and provide a solution to the devastation these institutions created. In The Prince, Machiavelli listed the tactics that need to be used by a leader to gain control of the people. Machiavelli recognized that ethical principles  are important to the citizens, and the happiness of the citizens is a component of a states stability. As a citizen he was able to get the best view of the effects of policy. Machiavelli was a realist. He knew that power was the center of politics. Machiavelli did not set out to explain human nature or to provide his reader with a way of life. He wrote The Prince to explain the dynamics of the state and they ways in which the state can be successful. Machiavelli was a revolutionary thinker who opened our eyes to the reality of the political arena. Works Cited: 1.Santoni, Ronald. Social and Political Philosophy. New York: Random House, Inc., 1963. Print. 2.Lerner, Max. â€Å"Machiavelli the Realist.† Random House, Inc.. (1950): Print.

Foot Binding: Beauty And Torture Essay

Women have been deformed, bounded and altered their bodies to not only survive in the society but also because of the practice of the dominance of men over women. The Lotus Shoes were very popular back in the Qing Dynasty as foot binding were a practice that many Chinese women participated in and became bound to patriarchy. This practice was implemented in the Chinese cultural values and traditions. Footbinding as a duality due to not only it’s beauty and charm, but also it’s deformity and foul odor (Ping, 2000). The moral restriction not only affected women, but also the culture and society. The rise of footbinding, together with the rise of the practice of the exemplary woman, symbolizes the social, political, and cultural predicaments in the late imperial period† (Ping, 2000) Foot binding is a painful process that allowed women to be thought as beautiful and a good future wife. The cult of the exemplary woman in the Ming and Qing dynasties reach the most terrible self-mutilations and the most shocking methods of suicide (Ping, 2000) Throughout history and in many different cultures, people have different perspective and perception on what beauty is or means. However, foot binding is probably one of the most extreme practices of body modification for beauty. This practice goes beyond the superficial. Body alteration, however, is not something solely unique to China, across history we have observed many different cultures with their own practice and perspective of beauty as seen in figure 2 & 3. As women with bounded foot couldn’t move or do much, they would often lead the life of the wealthy and enjoy their day with fellow foot bounded women (Figure 4). The practice was a custom of the royalty and wealthy until the start of the 17th century, where women from all classes started binding their feet to imitate the upper classes. (Footwear History, 2013) At the point when a young girl achieved the age of three, each toe was broken aside from the principal toe on each foot and what is left of the foot was bound with material and strips that were intended to keep the foot shorter, this likewise influenced the foot to twist at the underside. Ladies were compelled to experience torment and keeping in mind the end goal to feel delightful. (Cummings, 1998). One of the popular theories said that it began with Emperor Li Yu. Amid the 970 A.D., Emperor Li Yu saw his most loved partner moving on a brilliant lotus platform and was spellbound by her feet, which she had wrapped in portions of material – much like those of a ballet performer moving on pointe – so her moving seemed more delightful. Seeing the ruler’s pleasure, other court ladies comparatively wrapped their feet. Before long high society ladies received the mold, and inevitably it spread to all ladies, regardless of their economic wellbeing. Just a couple of are as opposed, similar to the Manchu and the individuals who hailed from Guangdong in southern China. (Holman, 2013) (Ross, 2013) Surprisingly, as the custom became widely practiced, a transformation of the styles and techniques was a witness. Ladies needed ever-littler, more bent feet, thus the foot restricting procedure was made to accomplish very curved, 3-inch feet. (Figure 6) The training flourished for a long time until the point when it was prohibited in 1912 after the insurgency of Sun Yat-sen. (Evans, 2013) (Minnesota-China Connection) Be that as it may, ladies kept on restricting their feet in parts of China until the late 1950s. After the Communists came to control in 1949, ladies were compelled to do hard physical work like burrowing repositories, and those with bound feet found the work horrifying. The ladies often gave up daily sustenance out of vanity as they simply could not work the fields or gather food. They regularly abandoned sustenance as they couldn’t satisfy their day by day creation amount nor scrounge in the mountains for organic products like other ladies. (Lim, 2007) When the practice became a tradition, it seemed impossible to discontinue it. Bounded feet were deemed normal and beautiful, while unbound feet were otherwise. The culture and practice have left parents feeling upset and caught in between. They wouldn’t want to inflict pain on their daughters but at the same time, their daughter would be out cast by the society, and they would have a hard time getting a husband if their feet weren’t bounded. The size of the feet meant so much more than the social status of the female. However, foot binding has also left a positive impact on the society despite the negative influences. The practice was also a strong multi-generational bond for women. (Figure 7) (Figure 9) Women with bounded feet were proud of their feet size and would get together to sew their shoes regularly. The procedure was also performed by the women of the family. (Figure 8) †It was a strong tradition passed from mother to daughters, entangled with shoemaking, how to endure pain and how to attract men. In many ways, it underpinned women’s culture,† says Dorothy Ko, a` history professor at Barnard College in New York and author of †Cinderella’s Sisters: A Revisionist History of Footbinding.† (Gillet, 2012) Beyond human relations, this practice has also influenced China’s architecture. Due to the bounded feet, the maximum distance women could walk was only about 3 or 5 miles. This has led them to receive more care and support. The houses were the mostly single floor, double at the maximum as it was hard for the women to move around. (Figure 10) The walkways and lanes were very small so women could get support from the walls or even railing when they walk. Foot binding also affected the culture on a global scale. The Westerners were able to explore the world and colonized lands. As the Chinese women had their feet bounded, it made it hard for them to travel or commute. Their husband would often stay with them too. The Chinese that managed to settle new lands were from ethnic groups that didn’t practice binding. (Ross, 2013) Foot binding likewise cultivated the predominance of men over ladies. Since it was troublesome for a lady to stroll with bound feet – the most distant she could walk was 3 or 4 miles (4.8 to 6.4 kilometers) – Chinese ladies never strayed a long way from home, nor had much contact with others outside their towns. (Holman, 2013) Their lessened portability for all intents and purposes guaranteed they couldn’t have extramarital illicit relationships, or flee to get away from a beating when their spouses were disappointed. As foot restricting ended up noticeably dug in amid the Song administration (960-1279), instruction for ladies was entirely diminished and autonomous property rights banned (Ross, 2013) A law in Imperial China was that ladies did not pick their spouses as marriage was orchestrated by the men (Nosotro, 2000), which again focuses on the overwhelming talk of a male controlling country. The men chose the ladies by the measure of their feet, the wealthier men pick the lady with the littlest. A go-between would visit went with a single man, and he would sit and watch the ladies’ twisted feet. On the off chance that they were too substantial and did not fulfill him, he basically turned her down which was a †Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ extremely humiliating undertaking†¦ † cites Zhang Ru-lian. The possibility of sustenance restricting was so well known as the showed that ladies could endure torment this exhibited the characteristic of the train which was alluring. To place this into the point of view foot restricting is practically similar to female circumcision, as it takes away  some type of energy, and it influences the ladies to feel vulnerable. Foot binding also cultured an erotic practice, it became an antiquated fetish for men. In the same way as other sexual interests, accommodation in Asian culture is one prevailing fixation. For official, it’s not constrained upon the female sex. Indeed, it is normally guardians that start this sort of training so their little girl would have a decent future prospect. This training is a sort of accommodation since it makes the females claimed by their spouses. The feet have been one of the fixations of mankind. The shape and form and in addition the way that it is shrouded, makes it all the more energizing as far as sexual fervor. Women in the past were objectified and used by men for their sexual needs and fetish. (Holman, 2013) Antiquated manuals taught men in how to exotically caress bound feet in incalculable ways, and utilize them to improve sexual experiences. Further, numerous ladies kept their feet bound all through sexual experiences, upgrading their persona while cover ing their deformity. Be that as it may, a few men got a kick out of the chance to see the unshod – they would be in contact with it. Peculiar foot obsessions grew, for example, drinking the water a lady had used to wash her feet or setting nuts between her twisted toes, at that point eating them (Evans, 2013) The bound foot denied ladies of their opportunity to move their feet and their flexibility of soul. The fact that this practice isn’t compulsory and they are done even by mothers, demonstrates that this training begins to be not an easygoing practice in nature but rather can transform into a type of accommodation later on. When a man marries a woman because of his sexual attraction towards her feet, then it can be perceived that the women submitted to the man because of her feet. Another way for seeing this is footbinding would not be a prevailing fashion and practice if men in China did not demonstrate any slant to young ladies with little feet. The once well-known routine with regards to foot restricting, at last, reached an end toward the finish of the lines. Ladies in China have made considerable progress in the way they have been dealt with. Ladies have progressed significantly in Chinese society and the playing field has turned into somewhat more even yet ladies are still observed as lesser than men in the present society. Even till today, there is an interest for infant young men to be conceived. Chinese society inclines toward young men to young ladies since children can grow up to deal with their folks when they develop old though guardians can’t move in with the lady as she grows up and moves out of the house when she gets hitched. There is presently a point of confinement set up expressing what number of children a couple can have. Families are permitted to have one tyke as long as that first youngster is a kid and a moment is permitted if the primary type is a young lady however after two children couples a re not permitted to have any more kids or they would need to pay a $3,500 fine. In the 1980’s, the legislature started implementing a strict one tyke for every couple run the show. Despite the fact that ladies have progressed significantly in Chinese society, ladies are as yet viewed as the second rate compared to men even today. (Chang, 2008) However, women today are not any longer pressured to have little feet just to guarantee men will like them. The stereotype of females being a sex object is gradually being supplanted by superior women who has influenced and made an impact in the Chinese society. The practice is part of China’s ancient tradition. It fills in as a lesson that people can do outrageous things to their body just to please others. Footbinding is a piece of China’s history that shows us how our reality today comprehends and acknowledges that men and ladies are made similarly and must be dealt with correspondingly. (Jackson, 1998)

The Return: Midnight Chapter 1

â€Å"Dear Diary, I'm so frightened I can hardly hold this pen. I'm printing rather than writing in cursive, because that way I have more control. What am I terrified of, you ask? And when I say â€Å"of Damon†you don't believe the answer, not if you'd seen the two of us a few days ago. But to understand, you have to know a few facts. Have you ever heard the phrase â€Å"Al bets are off†? It means that anything, anything, can happen. So that even somebody who figures out odds and takes bets from people gives them back their money. Because a wild card has entered the situation. You can't even figure the odds to take a bet. That's where I am. That's why my heart is pounding in my throat and head and ears and fingertips in fear. Al bets are off. You can see how shaky even my printing is. Suppose my hands shake like this when I go in to see him? I might drop the tray. I might annoy Damon. And then anything might happen. I'm not explaining this right. What I should be saying is that we're back: Damon and Meredith and Bonnie and me. We went to the Dark Dimension and now we're home again, with a star ball – and Stefan. Stefan was tricked into going there by Shinichi and Misao, the brother and sister kitsune, or evil fox-spirits, who told him that if he went to the Dark Dimension he could get the curse of being a vampire removed and become human again. They lied. All they did was leave him in a stinking prison, with no food, no light, no warmth†¦until he was at the point of death. But Damon – who was so different back then – agreed to lead us to try to find him. And, oh, I can't even begin to describe the Dark Dimension itself. But the important thing is that we finally found Stefan, and that by then we'd found the Twin Fox key we needed to release him. But – he was a skeleton, poor boy. We carried him out of the prison on his pallet, which later Matt burned; it was so infested with creepy-crawlies. But that night we gave him a bath and put him to bed†¦and then we fed him. Yes, with our blood. All the humans did it except Mrs. Flowers, who was busy making poultices for where his poor bones were almost sticking out of his skin. They had starved him to that point! I could kill Them with my own hands – or my Wings Powers – if only I could use them properly. But I can't. I know there is a spell for Wings of Destruction, but I have no idea how to summon it. At least I got to see how Stefan blossomed when being fed with human blood. (I admit that I gave him a few extra feedings that weren't on his chart, and I'd have to be an idiot not to know that my blood is different from other people's – it's much richer and it did Stefan amazing amounts of good.) And so Stefan recovered enough that the next morning he was able to walk downstairs to thank Mrs. Flowers for her potions! The rest of us, though – all the humans – were totally exhausted. We didn't even think about what had happened to the bouquet, because we didn't know it had anything special in it. We'd gotten it just as we were leaving the Dark Dimension, from a kind white kitsune who'd been in the cell across from Stefan's before we arranged a jailbreak. He was so beautiful! I never knew a kitsune could be kind. But he had given Stefan these flowers. Anyway, that morning Damon was up. Of course, he couldn't contribute any of his own blood, but I honestly think he would have, if he could. That was the way he was back then. And that's why I don't understand how I can feel the fear I feel now. How can you be terrified of someone who's kissed you and kissed you†¦and called you his darling and his sweetheart and his princess? And who has laughed with you with his eyes dancing with mischief? And who's held you when you were frightened, and told you there was nothing to be afraid of, not while he was there? Someone you only had to glance at to know what he was thinking? Someone who has protected you, no matter what the cost to himself, for days on end? I know Damon. I know his faults, but I also know what he's like inside. And he's not what he wants people to think he is. He's not cold, or arrogant, or cruel. Those are fa?ades he puts on to cover himself, like clothes. The problem is that I'm not sure he knows he isn't any of these things. And right now he's all mixed-up. He might change and become all of them – because he's so confused. What I'm trying to say is, that morning only Damon was really awake. He was the only one who saw the bouquet. And one of the things Damon definitely is, is curious. So he unwrapped all the magical wards from it and it had a single pitch-black rose in the center. Damon has been trying to find a black rose for years, just to admire it, I think. But when he saw this one he smelled it†¦and boom! The rose disappeared! And suddenly he was sick and dizzy and he couldn't smell anything and all his other senses were dulled as well. That was when Sage – oh, I haven't even mentioned Sage, but he's a tall bronze gorgeous hunk of a vampire who's been such a good friend to all of us – told him to suck in air and to hold it, to push it down into his lungs. Humans have to breathe that way, you see. I don't know how long it took Damon to realize that he really was a human, no joke, nothing anyone could do about it. The black rose had been for Stefan; and it would have given him his dream of being human again. But when Damon realized it had worked its magic on him†¦ That's when I saw him look at me and lump me in with the rest of my species – a species he's come to hate and scorn. Since then I haven't dared look him in the eye again. I know he loved me just days ago. I didn't know that love could turn to – well, to all the things he feels now about himself. You'd think it would be easy for Damon to become a vampire again. But he wants to be as powerful a vampire as he used to be – and there isn't anyone like that to exchange blood with him. Even Sage disappeared before Damon could ask him. So Damon is stuck like this until he finds some strong, powerful, and prestigious vampire to go through the whole process of changing him. And every time I look into Stefan's eyes, those jewel-green eyes that are warm with trust and gratitude – I feel terror, too. Terror that somehow he'll be snatched away again – right out of my arms. And†¦terror that he'll find out how I've come to feel about Damon. I hadn't even realized myself how much Damon has come to mean to me. And I can't†¦ stop†¦my feeling†¦for him, even if he hates me now. And, yes, damn it, I'm crying! In a minute, I have to go take him his dinner. He must be starving, but when Matt tried to take him something earlier today, Damon threw the whole tray at him. Oh, please, God, please don't let him hate me! I'm being selfish, I know, in just talking about what's going on with Damon and me. I mean, things in Fell's Church are worse than ever. Every day more children become possessed and terrify their parents. Every day, parents get angrier with their possessed children. I don't even want to think about what's going on. If something doesn't change, the whole place will be destroyed like the last town Shinichi and Misao visited. Shinichi†¦he made a lot of predictions about our group, about things we've kept secret from the others. But the truth is, I don't know if I want to hear any of his riddles solved. We're lucky in one way. We have the Saitou family to help us. You remember Isobel Saitou, who pierced herself so horribly while she was possessed? Since she's gotten better, she's become a good friend, and her mother, Mrs. Saitou, and her grandmother, Obaasan, too. They give us amulets – spells to keep evil away, written on Post-it Notes or little cards. We're so grateful for that kind of help. Someday maybe we can repay them all. Elena Gilbert put down the pen reluctantly. Shutting her diary meant having to face the things she had been writing about. Somehow, though, she managed to make herself walk downstairs to the kitchen and take the dinner tray from Mrs. Flowers, who smiled encouragingly at her. As she set out for the boardinghouse's storage room, she noticed that her hands were trembling so that the entire tray of food she was carrying jingled. Since there was no access to the storage room from inside, anyone who wanted to see Damon had to go out the front door and around to the addition tacked on near the kitchen garden. Damon's lair, people were cal ing it now. As she passed the garden Elena glanced sideways at the hole in the middle of the angelica patch that was the powered-down Gateway where they'd come back from the Dark Dimension. She hesitated at the storage room door. She was stil trembling, and she knew that was not the right way to face Damon. Just relax, she told herself. Think of Stefan. Stefan had had a grim setback when he'd found that there was nothing left of the rose, but he had soon recovered his usual humility and grace, touching Elena's cheek and saying that he was thankful just to be there with her. That this closeness was al he asked of life. Clean clothes, decent food – freedom – al these were worth fighting for, but Elena was the most important. And Elena had cried. On the other hand, she knew that Damon had no intention of remaining as he now was. He might do anything, risk anything†¦to change himself back. It had actual y been Matt who had suggested the star bal as a solution for Damon's condition. Matt hadn't understood either the rose or the star bal until it was explained that this star bal , which was probably Misao's, contained within it most or al of her Power, and that it had become more bril iant as it absorbed the lives that she took. The black rose had probably been created with a liquid from a similar star bal – but no one knew how much or whether it was combined with unknown ingredients. Matt had frowned and asked, if the rose could change a vampire to a human, could a star bal change a human to a vampire? Elena hadn't been the only one to see the slow rising of Damon's bent head, and the glimmer in his eyes as they traveled the length of the room to the star bal fil ed with Power. Elena could practical y hear his logic. Matt might be total y off track†¦but there was one place a human could be sure to find powerful vampires. In the Dark Dimension – to which there was a Gateway in the boardinghouse's garden. The Gateway was closed right now†¦for lack of Power. Unlike Stefan, Damon would have absolutely no qualms about what would happen if he had to use al the star bal ‘s liquid, which would result in the death of Misao. After al , she was one of the two foxes who had abandoned Stefan to be tortured. So all bets were off. Okay, you're scared; now deal with it, Elena told herself fiercely. Damon's been in that room for almost fifty hours now and who knows what he's been plotting to do to get hold of the star bal . Stil , somebody's got to get him to eat – and when you say â€Å"somebody,†face it, it's you. Elena had been standing at the door so long that her knees were starting to lock. She took a deep breath and knocked. There was no answer, and no light went on inside. Damon was human. It was quite dark outside now. â€Å"Damon?†It was meant to be a cal . It came out a whisper. No answer. No light. Elena swal owed. He had to be in there. Elena knocked harder. Nothing. Final y, she tried the knob. To her horror it was unlocked, and it swung open to reveal an interior as dark as the night around Elena, like the maw of a pit. The fine hairs at the back of Elena's neck were standing up. â€Å"Damon, I'm coming in,†she managed in a bare whisper, as if to convince herself by her quietness that there was nobody there. â€Å"I'l be silhouetted against the very edge of the porch light. I can't see anything, so you have al the advantages. I'm carrying a tray with very hot coffee, cookies, and steak tartar, no seasonings. You should be able to smel the coffee.† It was odd, though. Elena's senses told her that there was no one standing directly in front of her, waiting for her to literal y run into him. Al right, she thought. Start with baby steps. Step one. Step two. Step three – I must be wel into the room now, but it's stil too dim to see anything. Step four†¦ A strong arm came out of the darkness and locked in an iron grip around her waist, and a knife pressed against her throat. Elena saw blackness shot with a sudden gray network, after which the dark closed in overwhelmingly.