Thursday, October 31, 2019

Ann Radcliffe and the Gothic movement behing her literature Research Paper

Ann Radcliffe and the Gothic movement behing her literature - Research Paper Example Ann Radcliffe due to her reclusive nature was made the brunt of her contemporaries’ imagination and was accused of being a mad genius, a sorceress and a madwoman haunted by ghosts etc. Considered the most significant writer of the English Gothic genre, Ann Radcliffe changed the Gothic novel from a mere medium for the depiction of terror into a tool for exploring the psychology of terror and suspense. Her stress on emotion, insight, and the connection between atmosphere and sensibility helped make the way for the Romantic Movement in England. Radcliffes most famous novel, The Mysteries of Udolpho (1794), is one of the principal examples of Gothic literature. (Onorato& Cengage, 1997)1 Ann Radcliffe was extremely popular in her day. Her application of Gothic techniques, her talent to rouse terror and curiosity in her readers by setting up events which were seemingly supernatural, but which were afterwards logically explained by ordinary means, was widely imitated by other writers but never surpassed. Her construction of tastefully imaginary horrors (taste was equal to quality) and her stress on the supernatural was modern and Romantic, whereas her logical explanations belonged to the ordered world of eighteenth century England. Thus her novels offered contemporary readers a chance to indulge their penchant for the bizarre, the outrà © and the unusual by generally hinting at the immoral, decadent and the supernatural while in due course rectifying matters ,from a societal viewpoint , by vindicating the old world virtues of a submissive woman. The nature of Ann Radcliffe’s novels was startling to her readers and she was reviled by some critics as a misleader of youth and women. But her admirers called her the mighty enchantress. Ann Radcliffe was born in a lower-middle class family in Holborn, London. Her father was William Ward, a haberdasher and her mother was Ann Oates.troubled with asthma from youth, she was reserved by nature and read widely. In 1787,

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

General Suggested improvements Essay Example for Free

General Suggested improvements Essay The improvements I suggest would include having utilities like File Wipe and data encryption, Firewalls and other Malware protection. You should employ tactics such as Health and Safety messages, such as only water may be near the computers, and then it should be in a secure bottle and such things as data awareness, e. g. , people knowing what they should and should not delete and where data is held and why they should have passwords and why there should be strong passwords. There should be efficient junk-mail filters on your email to avoid any viruses coming into your system by email. Task 2: Types of threats to your physical security with suggested improvements(P2) Biometrics These are mechanical security measures that detect fingerprints, gait recognition and iris detection, etc. Be aware that these methods are not foolproof! There are people out there who spend every day trying to beat these systems. Physical security These are security measures like locks and bolts on doors and windows. Security guards and dogs could be employed, and burglar alarms such as motion sensors, noise detection and other sorts of alarms; CCTV cameras and Smart cameras to be deployed inside and outside the building. The doors to the server should be locked and a security guard should be positioned outside the door. With the servers hardrives being locked in place and for higher security measures, having a vault door in front of the server, and having the access keys 12 metres apart, and operated simultaneously by two separate employees, would ensure greater (but not foolproof) security. You could invest in a disaster resistant room with fire resistant tiles, and some way of filtering flood or excess water, and some way of cooling things down if the air conditioning breaks down to avoid the server being flooded and/or cooked, for your server to resist things like terrorist attacks, e. g. , bombs and/or the unlikely but still possible event of a tornado. All these physical security systems could help to make your business secure. Describe how software and network security measures can help keep systems and data secure. (P3, M1) Software and Network Security The first suggestion I would make would be buy or download your software from reputable retailers. Unlicensed and cracked software could also have incorporated Malware in the cracking code and also, you could be in trouble with the law if you use unlicensed software. You should have the relevant security software up to date and make sure your anti-Malware protection is not actually Malware pretending to be anti-Malware to fool you. Firewalls Firewalls are metaphorically a wall between you and the Internet which denies access to anything you havent specified (i. e. , hackers and malicious websites or material). Every computer has a unique identification address, made up of a series of numbers, and also given a domain name corresponding to those numbers, for easier access, e. g. , howstuffworks. com is also known as 216. 27. 61. 137 . A firewall can block all access to a specific IP address. Firewalls can also filter messages and monitor attempted break-ins. Firewalls can also be implemented in certain machines to allow only one protocol, e. g. , http or tcp and block all others. Encryption Encryption is a process turning regular text, pictures and other data into illegible text and pictures and data through a series of simple or complicated algorithms depending on your security needs. The text will turn out like this:- 5ugre54jyt656f5t8uf which , for anybody who can speak double Dutch, means absolutely nothing. Encryption is important for sensitive personal information or any business related information which would make it harder for the hackers to uphold your information in any legible way. In encryption techniques, there are two types of keys, Public and Private. The Public Key is a key that can be passed around and made public. This is to encrypt any information. Once a person has encrypted the information, it cannot be decrypted without the Private Key which is a password, not necessarily a word in the English sense, it can be any combination of letters and numbers, which is more advisable. For greater security, the password should be separate from any digital medium but some software allows you to store it on your computer for automatic decryption. Anti-Virus Software. Anti-virus software protects against viruses. They have a database of the general layout of viruses so they can recognise any future viruses and also any existing ones. This is a critical piece of software, particularly if your computer has a virus, as this can cause it to slow down or not work altogether, so it is highly advisable to have some sort of anti-virus software installed. Staff Training. It is important to provide regulations or Code of Conduct in your Company, e. g. , you could specify that employees may only use their email for work purposes. Staff should be aware that it is insecure to leave a computer logged on when they are not around and also not to leave their laptops in cars or on public transport. Laptops should not be left in cars overnight in cold conditions as this could disable them. Computers should not be left in any condition where they could overheat and destroy the contents inside. Staff should also be aware that viruses and other Malware can be sent via email attachments so they must not open any email attachments unless you specifically know what that attachment contains. Staff should also be trained in data management. This is keeping your files in a structured and organised fashion, having sensible file names and folder names, knowing what should and should not be deleted, knowing how to achieve deleted items, and knowing what to do when other office programmes crash and knowing where you can get the autosave files from. The final training staff need to know is about copyright, registered trademarks and patent Laws and also plagiarism. Biometrics. Biometrics is fusing biology with IT in the fact that fingerprints can be used to access computers or other physical areas. Known biometrics are:- gait recognition, fingerprint scanning, iris detection, speech recognition. The costs of these security measures can be quite expensive, especially the newer ones like gait recognition and iris detection. More conventional biometrics are relatively cheap like fingerprinting and speech which are probably the most common ones around. Passwords. Passwords are crucial to deter any opportunistic data thieves. If everybody has a strong password, these types of thieves will be stopped. When signing up for a Google mail account, they have an indicator next to the password, they have a scale next to the password selected, to indicate whether this is a weak to strong password. Generally, weak passwords are 1 6, your dogs name, your wifes names, or any similar name, important dates like your birthday. These are considered weak passwords as they can easily be guessed. Strong passwords are usually an alphanumeric combination of upper and lower case letters, for instance, GIRfufr57fjy, keep systems and data secure. Call Back Call back is the CPU putting a process on hold, to go back to it later. Handshaking Handshaking is the computer and a another computer deciding on the protocol. Use of Backups The use of Backups are essential to your business, so that if your hard drive fails you will need to get a new hard drive and if you neglected to back up your computer, all your data is lost. So backups are essential to keep data secure. Audit logs Audit logs are programmes to log any changes to your computer, eg when you log in, the audit logs check the logs for your username against your password and do you have authorisation to access to continue if so more checking, keeping systems secure. Firewall Firewalls are metaphorically a wall between you and the Internet which denies access to anything you havent specified (i. e. , hackers and malicious websites or material). Every computer has a unique identification address, made up of a series of numbers, and also given a domain name corresponding to those numbers, for easier access, e. g. , howstuffworks. com is also known as 216. 27. 61. 137 . A firewall can block all access to a specific IP address. Firewalls can also filter messages and monitor attempted break-ins. Firewalls can also be implemented in certain machines to allow only one protocol, e. g. , http or tcp and block all others, keeping systems and data secure. Configuration You need to configure your computer and/or network security to your security policies. If you configure your security properly it will prevent unauthorised access onto your network or accidental deletion of data. The configuration is important to keep your system running smoothly and your work safe.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

The Concept Of Identity In Society

The Concept Of Identity In Society The concept of identity is described in numerous different ways such as the I, Me, personality, self and essence. These offer a starting point for us to attempt to understand and explain who and what we are internally and within the external world .There are various theories that have been developed to help us make sense of what contributes to our identity. These theories examine the factors that can build, shape and change our identity, covering aspects such as the structure of society, our interactions with others and past experiences. Identity could be defined as being directly relevant to associated characteristics of an individuals character or of a group. Identity can be viewed as a both passive and active form, it can be used to help others define us which is usually not controllable by that individual it can also be relevant to how we as individuals view ourselves.(Macionis and plummer,2008). There are various forms of the self and identity the three main groups most individuals are able to place themselves within .These are the collective self, the individual self and the relational self. The concept of identity in modern western society has shifted as a result of changes in ideology and society. These changes have included industrialisation where subjects act as workers who move around for work and have a identity that is flexible and not rigid within social structure and enlightenment where subjects are able to change their identities and create new choices and choosing new value systems (Michael.A, 2008) The relationship of identity in the structural sense and the actual power an individual has over their identity has been critically analysed by theorists such as Goffman (1999) and Garfinkel (1984) have placed emphasis on the way individuals can develop and mould identity using language.Mead describes a similar form of interaction where personality, interaction and social structure provide a framework that can then be used for an understanding of identity (Choudry,2010,p11). To examine the various theories that contributes to the study of identity in regards to investigating societies understanding of older people. This will be looked at using the following structure, firstly looking at ways in which age forms an identity will be considered. Secondly, the influence of theorists on attempting to understand the process by which this identity is created will be examined. Third, the concept of stigma and its repercussions will be discussed. Finally, the role and identity both personal an d professional of the Social Worker as an agent between structural aspects and the impact of this role on the service user. How old an individual is and how this influences identity varies and can be interpreted differently from different personal perspectives and cultures. From an objective sense age is simply the culmination of a process that is begun at birth and one that is given certain social indicators (Taylor and field, 2007, p.113). Older people or old age in many societies worldwide is not clearly defined but usually a term used when referring to someone a few years older than the individual being referred to (Miller,2008). Various cultural views can produce pressure on who is considered young or as an older person within society. This can vary according to cultural context (Stephens and Leach, 1998,p.475). The implications of being identified as an older person can cause tension between the potential conflict of the individuals view of their identity and the structural view . In traditional society, the identity of the elderly is often a prescribed element, that presupposes norms of clothing and behaviour (Taylor and field, 2007).Other members that belong to that particular traditional society are projected with ideals of how to behave in a manner suited to people of an older age a manner that would change for another person of similar age (Stepehns and Leach, 1998, p. 476) . These assumptions have the ability to reduce the amount of power a older person has as they are defined and categorised based on visible characteristics rather than as a whole person (Miller,2008). Therefore social workers interpretation of an older person should fully consider the relationship between identity ,older people and structural factors.An older person may not view themselves as simply fitting in to a p articular category such as older person even if society is able to do so. There are many different sociological theories that can assist in understanding contemporary societies attitude to identity when referring to older people (Giddens,2000 ,p.521).Within social work acknowledging and utilising the right of self determinism is an important part of the framework created when providing support and assistance to older people(Miller, 008 , P4). When identifying a person in need the role of the social worker could include providing a range of suitable options to choose from. However the social worker would provide the older person with the tools to make an independent decision. This can be explained by the adherence to identification in terms of the agency exerted by the older person (Franzese,2009,p.71).It is important that the social worker refrains from categorising the elderly originating from the perspective of an older person but viewing as an independent individual in need (Franeze,2009).To assume without proof about the lack of ability of an older per son must be avoided. This can create a tendency to make judgements and disempowered the service user, leading to lack of understanding in regards to the care and support required. Especially in regards the older persons ability to make independent informed choices based on a understanding of their life and being the expert within their own situations. Although there are types of illnesses such as mental health issues that tend to occur more in the elderly than in the younger generation the social worker needs to assume the service user is capable -so regardless of how the service user is generally presenting him o herself unless presented with proof that suggests otherwise. Using this method in social work and emphasising the person centred approach can be explained through understanding the right to self determinism and empowerment (Kim, 1991). To practice effectively the social work must actively avoid becoming complacent with the attitudes towards older people projected through d ominate discourse in contemporary society. This discourse projects identity on to individuals using age as way of categorising the social work need to provide the individual with the right to self-determination. This is a difficult perspective to maintain when the structure of society promotes and accepts the idea of defining individuals in regards to age (Giddens,2000).This is also difficult to maintain when surrounded with many resources that are provided to those in need by social services that are allocated based on age and therefore creating restrictions if an individual does not fall into that age bracket. Therefore suggesting it is difficult to completely avoid catergosring older people as this is the system used in the society they exist in. This can be examined by looking at psychosocial identity, although Giddens suggests that we are reflexive agents we may have a smaller agency than what is suggested (Newman and Newman,2008).This suggests the rationale model of decision making for an individual is limited in its uses ; the choices we make are usually created for us to some extent as they are usually made when need or desire ansd the actually outcome only clear after the choice has been made.(Newman and Newman, 2008). Consequently an older person may experience the limitation of making a rational choice in regards to their identity as these choices may be made from a particular need. The older persons rational choices maybe affected by anxieties and fears surrounding their identity. As a result the role of the agent is quite limited in regards to the way interaction occurs between agent and structure. Therefore the individual has less choice than what may be assumed. Another important element for understanding identity in relation to contemporary social work is the subject of stigmatism. Stigma can be explained as a loss of individual social identity and status that occurs when an individual is simply looked upon as a member of a group with shared characteristics (Giles et al., 1990).The concept of being an older person could be looked upon as a creation of society rather than something that has naturally developed through positive association. This is relevant to older people as stigma can produce problems as it relates a number of conditioned to older people, stereotyping them (Giddens, 2000).Bringing in ethical practice a better way to avoid projecting identity on to an older person it would be more effective to avoid placing stigma upon the older person.With messages provided by the media in various forms such as television advertisements that depict older people as suffering from illness and being in need. When only provided with these image s of older people not stigmatising within social work would appear to be problematic. Structural aspects such as bureaucratism and globalisation make community self determinism and professional independence very difficult if not impossible (Bowles et al,2006).There is an conception that older people after being classified as older change from being active to passive members of society with limited involvement and are limited in their self-determinism. Goffman proposed a definition of stigma that emphasisies the differences between the virtual self in social identity and the actual social identity.(Goffman, 1969) Tension that has been identified by Sociological theory therefore is concerned largely with the interaction between the agency of an individual against the stigma that may be imposed upon the concept of the elderly, and their own right to self-identity (Newman and Newman, 2008, p.388). To an extent, as is represented by the psycho-social theoretical standpoint, it is difficult to argue from the perspective of interactionism the ways in which the individual has a significant agency in order to combat this perspective (Macionis and Plummer, 2008, p.76). Garfunkel (1967) argues that language is used as an active means by which individuals shape the identity around them. Rather than accepting a social identity that is imposed by the social structure in which they find themselves, individuals are active participants in the creation of such categories (Stephens and Leach, 1998, p.24). Of course, given that much of the social stigma associated with ageing stems from the ways in which the el derly are portrayed as mentally unstable, passive victims with mobility issues, all of which can be supported with a certain degree of statistical evidence, the ways in which individuals can rail against the stigma is problematic (Newman and Newman, 2008, p.289). However, the stigma is better understood as a blanket type definition applied to all individuals within a certain category ignoring the extent to which they fall into such categories. Identity theories, particularly from an interactionist perspective, are quite limited in their approach to describing how each individual holds their ability to actively define themselves in opposition to such stigma. The use of identity theories are not only significant for the ways in which Social Workers treat the elderly but can be seen as useful understanding the means by which the individual appreciates their own impact upon the context (Giddens, 2000, p.522). In particular, an understanding of the interaction between agency and structure can help the individual reflect on the extent to which certain roles are almost predefined by the context in which they find themselves (Haslam, 2003, p.99). First, the Social Workers role can be interpreted in the way in which they can be seen as part of the social structure. The fact that the provision of services can be interpreted in a negative fashion as the imposition of structure allows the individual to assess their own role and position within this context. Furthermore, the individual must appreciate their own potential for agency within the structure in the attempts provided for the avoidance of oppressive practice (Newman and Newman, 2008, p.388) . An important element of this process is in the use of reflective practice which allows the Social Worker to assess their own individual approaches and their emotions to the servo e provision. The extent to which they view the elderly with a stigma, or make assumptions regarding their ability to provide their own active approach to their own identity can be self-assessed. In many cases, it is possible for the Social Worker to adopt the Goffman idea of a distanced role, where they play a role in the service provision that fits various notions of the ideal way that such services can be provided without stigma (Goffman, 1963, p.54). This will involve occluding their true feelings or impressions of an individual, and the reflective practice allows them to assess and understand their approach to the subject (Goffman, 1999, p.16). The notion of the importance of agency within this context is therefore a key way in which Sociological Theories have affected Social Work practice. A range of effects have a significant effect on the way in which individuals are influenced in their identity (Giddens, 2000, p.522). In many such cases it is almost impossible for the elderly to exert their own level of agency in order to resist the categorisation and the accompanying stigma that often applies. In many cases, this can occur as the result of active influences on the part of the individual themselves, even if it is a distanced social role as suggested by Goffman (1999). The important influence of such theories upon the understanding of identity, however, fall into the area where the Social Worker can be seen as part of an active element of the structuration process (Zastrow, 2009, p.59). This is a difficult role to avoid on account of the fact that despite the ways in which agency is emphasised for the individual for whom care is provided, the provision of services is often defined by age rather than simply by need. From the perspective that to avoid stigma as a whole , it could be expected that the various requirements of the elderly may come under different remits, such as mobility issues coming under the disabled remit; and in many cases this does continue (Zastrow, 2009, p.61). However, the fact that certain benefits are available to the elderly on the basis of age alone means that the Social Worker remains an agent, albeit an active one, of the notion that age defines a social identity. This social identity therefore means that there is a subgroup of services that would be provided, and this perhaps undermines the active attempts to avoid imposing stigma on the concept of the the elderly and allow the individuals to impose their own agency. The most useful forms of identity theory would appear to ultimately stem from Lemert and Mead, that emphasise the position of an interaction between structure and agency (Franzese, 2009, p.71). As has been described in the previous discussion, elements that emphasise the process of either agency or the role of structure tend to miss the point of the way in which elderly people interact with the definitions that are applied to an identity. For the Social Worker there are numerous advantages that can be gained from an understanding of such theoretical contributions and the influence of different theories can help understand the requirement to avoid stigma and the emphasis that is made in Social Work to the process of individualisation, despite the inherent contradictions that can exist in the way in which services are provided. Social Work is essentially a part of society and represents and reflects the processes within it; as such, Sociological theories will always be of use in explai ning and describing the ways in which different processes form a part of practice (Franzese, 2009, p.71).

Friday, October 25, 2019

Divorce Laws in the United States Essay examples -- Family Law

â€Å"Divorce is a decree by a court that a valid marriage no longer exists. It leaves both parties free to remarry. The court will award custody, divide property, and order spousal and child support† (The American Bar Association 71). â€Å"†¦till death do us part† is almost always heard at wedding ceremonies. But all too often does this phrase not hold up to its true meaning. Between 1960 and 1999 the divorce rate in the United States tripled (Porterfield vii). Out of all first time marriages, 41% end in divorce (Divorce Rate). According to the Centers for Disease control and Prevention, for every 1,000 people, 6.8 get married and 3.4 of those marriages will end in divorce (Marriage and Divorce). The Family Legal Guide from The American Bar Association confirms that of the couples who marry before the age of forty-five, one-half of them will get divorced (71). These numbers do not seem to be decreasing. They only seem to be increasing as time goes on. It is agreed by many that if two people can no longer find it in themselves to be passionate towards one another and they no longer desire the others company that they should end their marriage. However, the growing number of divorces is proving that, pe rhaps getting a divorce in the United States is too easy. The evidence proves that divorce laws should be made stricter throughout the United States. Every divorce is different; no two divorces are the same. Some involve children. Some are just a couple. Some have step children or half children. Some include hostile situations. Some are peaceful. Some are for a valid reason. Some are simply because the couple doesn’t feel like being together anymore. Some are mutual. Some are not. So why is every divorce so quickly done and so easily ob... ...2. â€Å"Marriage and Divorce.† Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 5 Oct. 2010. Web. 26 Feb. 2012. Porterfield, Kay Marie. Straight Talk about Divorce. New York: Facts on File, 1999. Print. Portnoy, Ph.D. Sanford. â€Å"A Lawyer’s Primer Part 1- The Effects of Divorce on Adults.† Ed. Ron Brown. The Psychology of Divorce. 1(2006): 1-7. Print. Russo, Francine. â€Å"Can The Government Prevent Divorce?† The Atlantic. Oct. 1997. Web. 1 Apr. 2012. Shapiro v. Thompson. 2 Library of Congress Cataloging-in- Publication Data. U.S. Supreme Court. 21 Apr. 1969. Print. Tavernise, Sabrina, and Robert Gebeloff. â€Å"Once Rare in Rural American, Divorce is Changaing the Face of Its Families.† www.Nytimes.com. The New York Times. 23 Mar. 2011. Web. 27 Feb. 2012. The American Bar Association. Family Legal Guide. 3rd ed. New York: Random House, 2004. 71-88. Print.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

How can a company’s knowledge base be protected in an event of a natural disaster Essay

Due to the advent of globalization, the industries and organizations all around the globe are expanding and there is an increasing development across national barriers. As the businesses are becoming more competitive, so are the labor markets. Knowledge is of the essence and it is one of the most valuable source competitive edges of a business over others. A knowledge base is knowledge management system. It is similar to a database which is basically a collection of tables that hold the data in an organized manner. It is used in companies where data usage is integrated and shared. Most companies use databases to record all kinds of information that is confidential to outside parties. Databases make data management more efficient and effective. It provides an integrated view of the organizations operations and reduces the probability of inconsistent data. This paper would focus on the venture of knowledge base and how can it be protected in an event of natural disaster. Discussion Knowledge base holds all kind of strategic, tactic and operational information that could be used by upcoming employees. In today’s highly competition markets, knowledge is of the essence. Companies need as much information as they need in order to aware and agile of their environment and the markets. Due to the competition in the labor market, there is constant change among the workers in organizations; employees tend to skip from jobs to jobs looking for new opportunities and better offers. This leads to the transaction of information that the employees hold. As the employees are valuable assets of the organization. (Trochim, 2001) We live in a rather knowledge driven economy where knowledge holds great importance, whether it be of the global environment, about internal organizational processes or about the historical proceedings that have brought about change. This knowledge management process is better known through business continuity planning or knowledge asset protection planning. Knowledge continuity management is a growing process that focuses on the preservation of information and knowledge regarding the business that is possessed by the various stakeholders of the business. This knowledge is preserved so that it can be made accessible to those that follow in the organization. (Krishna, 1992) Knowledge present within the organizations systems is valuable to the existing as well as the upcoming leaders, employers and volunteers of the business. Hence, its protection holds the utmost importance. The occurrence of natural disasters and other catastrophic events is rather inevitable and the possibility of a natural disaster hitting the organization must, at all time, be taken into account. Vital information that would be used to rejuvenate the business after a natural disaster should assessed as to avoid the organization from halting. On regular basis, all knowledge and data must have backup restorations at different locations. This helps in accessing information if the original source gets destroyed or corrupted due to viruses, intrusions or natural occurrences. Back up data allows the business to function normally even if its system gets hacked or is out of order as copies of the knowledge base and databases are kept elsewhere. There are various knowledge asset protection planning programs that help ensure organizations to have access to their knowledge assets in the event of a natural catastrophe. These programs have various sources through which the knowledge base can be regained after a disaster making it easy for the organization to reinstate its standard activities. This knowledge protection system allows the organization to be prepared to face any kind of hindrance, it protects the valuable information of the organization, also prevents any obstruction and impediment due to the loss of valuable information that has been carried on for years. Moreover, when the knowledge base of the organization is safe from intrusions it is easier for the company management and upper level employees to be more unperturbed and stress-free and hence, can concentrate on other areas of growth. Conclusion In the end it is important to understand that with the increasingly knowledge dependent economies, organizations need to be active and agile at all times. Without sufficient knowledge it would become difficult for organizations to keep up with the competition and antagonism in the global markets. The sharing and integration of knowledge in organizations can drive innovation and increase productivity. Hence, the management of knowledge is a new imperative leadership as it has now become a valuable asset.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Why Nursing is a Popular Option for Career Changers

Why Nursing is a Popular Option for Career Changers Choosing a career is a momentous decision - one which holds the potential to lead to a lifetime of satisfaction †¦ .or misery. Not everyone gets it right the first time. Most recently, a trend is arising in which an increasing number of people in their 30s, 40s and 50s are pursuing second careers in nursing. Let’s take a closer look at this phenomenon. Supply and DemandThe nationwide demand for RNs is set to undergo a 21 percent increase by 2025, according to a December 2014 report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Center for Health Workforce Analysis. These numbers fail to factor in emerging care delivery models which will see nurses in new preventative care and care coordination roles thereby further increasing demand. The demand for LPNs is also projected to increase at a rate of 36 percent.While the country is recovering from the recession and in the process of bouncing back, many people remain scarred by layoffs, cutbacks, and ot her threats to job security. The anticipated demand for nursing removes this fear from the equation, and instead promises a secure future.And while registered nurses may not bring home the same high paychecks as doctors, they do make a comfortable income: a median pay of $65,470 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.The Fast Track to a New CareerWhile switching to a new career can take years in some professions, many nursing programs off a â€Å"fast track† which can be completed in as little as 12 months for college graduates. While most people don’t have the time or financial resources to invest in a long, drawn-out period of training, nursing offers a great career with minimal investment.The Chance to Make a DifferenceMany people enter first careers motivated by money and prestige. However, as people age, their priorities change. This is particularly true for those who may have experienced their own personal health issues, or witnessed a loved one go ing through a health catastrophe.In many cases, nurses are the primary point of contact for patients and families, and can make or break the quality of care. Because of their tremendous impact, many new, aspiring nurses are inspired to become nurses themselves.And while nurses may not have the prestige of their fellow doctors, they have something perhaps even more important: the trust of their patients. According to a recent Gallup poll, nurses received the highest ratings for honesty and ethical standards, surpassing medical doctors, police officers, and even members of the clergy.While changing careers can be an immobilizing decision - how do you know if you’re making the right choice? - it can also be an invaluable â€Å"second act,† for many American workers. At any age or stage of your career, following your calling into nursing can have innumerable benefits†¦both for you and the patients you serve.

Monday, October 21, 2019

Major General Irvin McDowell in the Civil War

Major General Irvin McDowell in the Civil War The son of Abram and Eliza McDowell, Irvin McDowell was born at Columbus, OH on October 15, 1818. A distant relation of cavalryman John Buford, he received his early education locally. At the suggestion of his French tutor, McDowell applied to and was accepted at the College de Troyes in France. Commencing his studies abroad in 1833, he returned home the following year after receiving an appointment to the US Military Academy. Returning to the United States, McDowell entered West Point in 1834. West Point A classmate of P.G.T. Beauregard, William Hardee, Edward Allegheny Johnson, and Andrew J. Smith, McDowell proved a middling student and graduated fours years later ranked 23rd in a class of 44. Receiving a commission as a second lieutenant, McDowell was posted to the 1st US Artillery along the Canadian border in Maine. In 1841, he returned to the academy to serve as an assistant instructor of military tactics and later served as the schools adjutant. While at West Point, McDowell married Helen Burden of Troy, NY. The couple would later have four children, three of whom survived to adulthood. Mexican-American War With the outbreak of the Mexican-American War in 1846, McDowell left West Point to serve on Brigadier General John Wools staff. Joining the campaign in northern Mexico, McDowell participated in Wools Chihuahua Expedition. Marching into Mexico, the 2,000-man force captured the towns of Monclova and Parras de la Fuenta before joining Major General Zachary Taylors army. prior to the Battle of Buena Vista. Attacked by General Antonio LÃ ³pez de Santa Anna on February 23, 1847, Taylors badly outnumbered force repulsed the Mexicans. Distinguishing himself in the fighting, McDowell earned a brevet promotion to captain. Recognized as a skilled staff officer, he finished the war as assistant adjutant general for the Army of Occupation. Returning north, McDowell spent much of the next dozen years in staff roles and the Adjutant Generals office. Promoted to major in 1856, McDowell developed close relationships with Major General Winfield Scott and Brigadier General Joseph E. Johnston. The Civil War Begins With the election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 and the resulting secession crisis, McDowell assumed a position as the military advisor to Governor Salmon P. Chase of Ohio. When Chase departed to become US Secretary of the Treasury, he continued in a similar role with new the governor, William Dennison. This saw him oversee the states defenses as well as direct recruitment efforts. As volunteers were recruited, Dennison sought to place McDowell in command of the states troops but was forced by political pressure to give the post to George McClellan. In Washington, Scott, the US Armys commanding general, designed a plan for defeating the Confederacy. Dubbed the Anaconda Plan, it called for a naval blockade of the South and a thrust down the Mississippi River. Scott planned to assign McDowell to lead the Union army in the west but Chases influence and other circumstances prevented this. Instead, McDowell was promoted to brigadier general on May 14, 1861, and placed in command of the forces gathering around the District of Columbia. McDowells Plan Harassed by politicians who desired a quick victory, McDowell argued to Lincoln and his superiors that he was an administrator and not a field commander. Additionally, he stressed that his men lacked sufficient training and experience to mount an offensive. These protests were dismissed and on July 16, 1861, McDowell led the Army of Northeastern Virginia into the field against a Confederate force commanded by Beauregard which was located near Manassas Junction. Enduring severe heat, the Union troops reached Centreville two days later. McDowell initially planned to mount a diversionary attack against the Confederates along Bull Run with two columns while a third swung south around the Confederate right flank to cut their line of retreat to Richmond. Searching for the Confederate flank, he sent Brigadier General Daniel Tylers division south on July 18. Pushing forward, they encountered enemy forces led by Brigadier General James Longstreet at Blackburns Ford. In the resulting fighting, Tyler was repulsed and his column was forced to withdraw. Frustrated in his attempt to turn the Confederate right, McDowell altered his plan and began efforts against the enemys left. Complex Changes His new plan called for Tylers division to shift west along the Warrenton Turnpike and conduct a diversionary attack across the Stone Bridge over Bull Run. As this moved forward, the divisions of Brigadier Generals David Hunter and Samuel P. Heintzelman would swing north, cross Bull Run at Sudley Springs Ford, and descend on the Confederate rear. Despite having crafted an intelligent plan, McDowells attack was soon hampered by poor scouting and the overall inexperience of his men. Failure at Bull Run While Tylers men arrived at the Stone Bridge around 6:00 AM, the flanking columns were hours behind due to poor roads leading to Sudley Springs. McDowells efforts were further frustrated as Beauregard began receiving reinforcements via the Manassas Gap Railroad from Johnstons army in the Shenandoah Valley. This was due to inactivity on the part of Union Major General Robert Patterson who, after a victory at Hokes Run earlier in the month, failed to pin Johnstons men in place. With Pattersons 18,000 men sitting idle, Johnston felt safe shifting his men east. Opening the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21, McDowell initially had success and pushed back the Confederate defenders. Losing the initiative, he mounted several piecemeal attacks but gained little ground. Counterattacking, Beauregard succeeded in shattering the Union line and began driving McDowells men from the field. Unable to rally his men, the Union commander deployed forces to defend the road to Centreville and fell back. Retiring to the Washington defenses, McDowell was replaced by McClellan on July 26. As McClellan began constructing the Army of the Potomac, the defeated general received command of a division. Virginia In the spring of 1862, McDowell assumed command of the armys I Corps with the rank of major general. As McClellan began shifting the army south for the Peninsula Campaign, Lincoln required that sufficient troops be left to defend Washington. This task fell to McDowells corps which assumed a position near Fredericksburg, VA and was redesignated the Department of the Rappahannock on April 4. With his campaign inching forward on the Peninsula, McClellan requested that McDowell march overland to join him. While Lincoln initially agreed, the actions of Major General Thomas Stonewall Jackson in the Shenandoah Valley led to the cancellation of this order. Instead, McDowell was directed to hold his position and send reinforcements from his command to the valley. Back to Bull Run With McClellans campaign stalling in late June, the Army of Virginia was created with Major General John Pope in command. Drawn from Union troops in northern Virginia, it included McDowells men which became the armys III Corps. On August 9, Jackson, whose men were moving north from the Peninsula, engaged part of Popes army at the Battle of Cedar Mountain. After a back and forth fight, the Confederates won a victory and forced Union troops from the field. Following the defeat, McDowell sent part of his command to cover the retreat of Major General Nathaniel Banks corps. Later that month, McDowells troops played a key role in the Union loss at the Second Battle of Manassas. Porter Later War In the course of the fighting, McDowell failed to forward critical information to Pope in a timely manner and made a series of poor decisions. As a result, he ceded command of III Corps on September 5. Though initially blamed for the Union loss, McDowell largely escaped official censure by testifying against Major General Fitz John Porter later that fall. A close ally of the recently-relieved McClellan, Porter was effectively scapegoated for the defeat. Despite this escape, McDowell did not receive another command until being appointed to lead the Department of the Pacific on July 1, 1864. He remained on the West Coast for the rest of the war. Later Life Remaining in the army after the war, McDowell assumed command of the Department of the East in July 1868. In that post until late 1872, he received a promotion to major general in the regular army. Departing New York, McDowell replaced Major General George G. Meade as head of the Division of the South and held the position for four years. Made commander of the Division of the Pacific in 1876, he stayed in the post until his retirement on October 15, 1882. During his tenure, Porter succeeded in obtaining a Board of Review for his actions at Second Manassas. Issuing its report in 1878, the board recommended a pardon for Porter and was harshly critical of McDowells performance during the battle. Entering civilian life, McDowell served as Parks Commissioner for San Francisco until his death on May 4, 1885. He was buried at San Francisco National Cemetery.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Analyzing Latin Amеrica’s Hеritagе

Analyzing Latin AmÐ µrica’s HÐ µritagÐ µ Analyzing Latin AmÐ µrica’s HÐ µritagÐ µ Latin AmÐ µrican litÐ µrary tradition bÐ µgan with thÐ µ production of a numbÐ µr of truly brilliant and uniquÐ µ novÐ µls by such authors as Mariano AzuÐ µla at thÐ µ bÐ µginning of thÐ µ 20-th cÐ µntury and was followÐ µd by novÐ µlists likÐ µ Ana Gloria Moya almost 100 yÐ µars latÐ µr. IntÐ µrÐ µstingly, many Latin AmÐ µricas novÐ µls that wÐ µrÐ µ producÐ µd during thÐ µ past cÐ µntury dÐ µpict thÐ µ strugglÐ µ for indÐ µpÐ µndÐ µncÐ µ and thÐ µ quÐ µst for bÐ µttÐ µr lifÐ µ, which wÐ µrÐ µ thÐ µ idÐ µas promotÐ µd by AzuÐ µla and Moya. Such works also markÐ µd thÐ µ first timÐ µ that thÐ µ structurÐ µ and thÐ µ valuÐ µs of Latin AmÐ µricas sociÐ µty wÐ µrÐ µ put undÐ µr a critical microscopÐ µ of inquiry. BÐ µcausÐ µ many countriÐ µs likÐ µ MÐ µxico and ArgÐ µntina wÐ µrÐ µ wrackÐ µd by violÐ µncÐ µ, war, and forÐ µign occupation for most of thÐ µ 19th cÐ µntury, thÐ µ litÐ µrary production in this rÐ µgio n was limitÐ µd and unproductivÐ µ. Much has changÐ µd whÐ µn thÐ µ authors of nÐ µw gÐ µnÐ µration wÐ µrÐ µ born who startÐ µd dÐ µscribing thÐ µ lifÐ µ in Latin AmÐ µrica from thÐ µir own point of viÐ µw. ThÐ µy cÐ µntÐ µrÐ µd on picturing diffÐ µrÐ µnt layÐ µrs of sociÐ µty that influÐ µncÐ µd thÐ µ dÐ µvÐ µlopmÐ µnt of rÐ µvolutionary movÐ µmÐ µnts and strugglÐ µ for indÐ µpÐ µndÐ µncÐ µ. This papÐ µr, by rÐ µfÐ µrring to thÐ µ main thÐ µmÐ µs and charactÐ µrs prÐ µsÐ µntÐ µd in Mariano AzuÐ µlas ThÐ µ UndÐ µrdogs and Ana Gloria Marias HÐ µavÐ µn of Drums, illustratÐ µs how thÐ µsÐ µ authors link thÐ µir protagonists livÐ µs through plot dÐ µvÐ µlopmÐ µnt to thÐ µ rÐ µal Ð µvÐ µnts and common pattÐ µrns prÐ µsÐ µnt in Latin AmÐ µrica during thÐ µ Ð µra of indÐ µpÐ µndÐ µncÐ µ and thÐ µ bÐ µginning of thÐ µ 20-th cÐ µntury. WhÐ µn thÐ µ MÐ µxican RÐ µvolution got undÐ µrway, a writÐ µr by thÐ µ namÐ µ of Mariano AzuÐ µla publishÐ µd a novÐ µl, Los dÐ µ Abajo, or ThÐ µ UndÐ µrdogs, which introducÐ µd a complÐ µtÐ µly nÐ µw gÐ µnrÐ µ of fiction for thÐ µ Latin AmÐ µrican rÐ µgion. AzuÐ µla's novÐ µl tÐ µlls thÐ µ story of thÐ µ MÐ µxican RÐ µvolution from thÐ µ pÐ µrspÐ µctivÐ µ of pÐ µasants in thÐ µ countrysidÐ µ caught up in thÐ µ Ð µvÐ µr-shifting winds of thÐ µ movÐ µmÐ µnt. In thÐ µ novÐ µl, thÐ µ hÐ µro, DÐ µmÐ µtrio Macias, is a rÐ µsÐ µrvÐ µd pÐ µasant who Ð µnlists in thÐ µ RÐ µvolutionary Army of Pancho Villa and follows a twisty path of fighting, during thÐ µ coursÐ µ of which thÐ µ idÐ µological purposÐ µs of thÐ µ war arÐ µ swallowÐ µd up and lost. ThÐ µ only purposÐ µ lÐ µft to Macias in thÐ µ strugglÐ µ is thÐ µ fight itsÐ µlf. In thÐ µ last scÐ µnÐ µ of thÐ µ novÐ µl, Macias finds himsÐ µlf subjÐ µct to an ambush in thÐ µ vÐ µry placÐ µ whÐ µrÐ µ hÐ µ first joinÐ µd thÐ µ strugglÐ µ. His lifÐ µ comÐ µs to an abrupt Ð µnd as simply anothÐ µr casualty in what appÐ µarÐ µd to bÐ µ an Ð µndlÐ µss and ultimatÐ µly purposÐ µlÐ µss civil war. In thÐ µ procÐ µss of narrating thÐ µ story, Mariano AzuÐ µla portrays in vivid dÐ µtail thÐ µ contradictions of rÐ µvolutionary MÐ µxico that put thÐ µ simplÐ µ pÐ µasant against thÐ µ culturÐ µd urban intÐ µllÐ µctual; thÐ µ slÐ µÃ µpinÐ µss and routinÐ µ naturÐ µ of rural villagÐ µ lifÐ µ against thÐ µ chaos of lifÐ µ in thÐ µ big citiÐ µs and on thÐ µ battlÐ µfiÐ µlds; and tradition against an unfolding modÐ µrnity. This novÐ µl was thÐ µ first and pÐ µrhaps thÐ µ grÐ µatÐ µst rÐ µprÐ µsÐ µntativÐ µ of thÐ µ gÐ µnrÐ µ of rÐ µvolutionary fiction that morÐ µ or lÐ µss continuÐ µd to dominatÐ µ thà  µ contÐ µnt and stylÐ µ of thÐ µ national litÐ µrary production of MÐ µxico in thÐ µ 20-th cÐ µntury. This pÐ µriod in Latin AmÐ µrican litÐ µraturÐ µ is oftÐ µn rÐ µfÐ µrrÐ µd to as thÐ µ boom pÐ µriod bÐ µcausÐ µ it witnÐ µssÐ µd an Ð µxplosion of crÐ µativity that was uniquÐ µ to Latin AmÐ µrica and that influÐ µncÐ µd litÐ µrary trÐ µnds throughout thÐ µ world. Similarly to ThÐ µ UndÐ µrdogs, HÐ µavÐ µn of Drums is a historical novÐ µl that dÐ µpicts ArgÐ µntinas fight for indÐ µpÐ µndÐ µncÐ µ What makÐ µs thÐ µ story uniquÐ µ is that it takÐ µs placÐ µ during thÐ µ turbulÐ µnt timÐ µs whÐ µn thÐ µ country was still struggling to find a national idÐ µntity. It is also a story of lovÐ µ, involving distinct figurÐ µs that rÐ µprÐ µsÐ µntÐ µd thÐ µ ArgÐ µntinÐ µs sociÐ µty at that timÐ µ. ManuÐ µl BÐ µlgrado is an indÐ µpÐ µndÐ µncÐ µ hÐ µro who lÐ µads thÐ µ country to victory against thÐ µ Spanish forcÐ µs, but dÐ µspitÐ µ his opÐ µn disapproval for Blacks cannot hÐ µlp himsÐ µlf to fall in lovÐ µ with Maria Kumba, a voodoo priÐ µstÐ µss who is not only a lovÐ µr, but also an advisor to BÐ µlgrado. Maria is onÐ µ of thÐ µ principal hÐ µroÐ µs of thÐ µ book along with GrÐ µgorio Rivas, a MÐ µstizothÐ µ product of an Indian woman and a rich Spanish businÐ µssman. Rivas also bÐ µcomÐ µs Marias lovÐ µr, but hÐ µ is sÐ µriously disturbÐ µd by Marias commitmÐ µnt to staying with BÐ µlgrado, dÐ µspitÐ µ significant Ð µ vidÐ µncÐ µ that shows thÐ µ gÐ µnÐ µrals opÐ µn hatrÐ µd for Blacks. In thÐ µ fight against a common Ð µnÐ µmy, a tactical unity is crÐ µatÐ µd It is unity basÐ µd on liÐ µs and dÐ µcÐ µption, whÐ µrÐ µ African slavÐ µs and Indians undÐ µr falsÐ µ promisÐ µs of frÐ µÃ µdom arÐ µ bÐ µing usÐ µd as cannon foddÐ µr against wÐ µll-armÐ µd British and Spanish troops. Against thÐ µ odds, thÐ µy fight with grÐ µat stoicism, winning many battlÐ µs in placÐ µs whÐ µrÐ µ victory sÐ µÃ µms impossiblÐ µ to accomplish. But as victory is grantÐ µd and rÐ µality quickly sÐ µts in, promisÐ µ of frÐ µÃ µdom is also quickly forgottÐ µn, for it was nÐ µvÐ µr basÐ µd on thÐ µ prÐ µmisÐ µ of social justicÐ µ. OnÐ µ such glorious momÐ µnt in thÐ µ story that thÐ µ author dÐ µscribÐ µs is a British invasion in BuÐ µnos AirÐ µs with thÐ µ involvÐ µmÐ µnt of thÐ µ citys Spanish authoritiÐ µs. Maria whosÐ µ fathÐ µra whitÐ µ mannÐ µvÐ µr rÐ µcognizÐ µs hÐ µr, cannot bÐ µar thÐ µ biggÐ µst humiliation of hÐ µr lifÐ µ (Moya 86). ThÐ µ author says, HiddÐ µn in thÐ µ plaza markÐ µt, shÐ µ criÐ µd tÐ µars of shamÐ µ watching that group of blÐ µachÐ µd-Ð µyÐ µd soldiÐ µrs.. FrÐ µÃ µd mÐ µn and slavÐ µs formÐ µd militias gathÐ µrÐ µd in [Marias] housÐ µ to organizÐ µ thÐ µ forcÐ µs in thÐ µ barrio [of Еl Tambor] (Moya 86-87) ThÐ µ story bÐ µing told hÐ µrÐ µ is nothing nÐ µw from countlÐ µss storiÐ µs that numÐ µrous historians havÐ µ alrÐ µady put forward to dÐ µscribÐ µ Latin AmÐ µrica in thÐ µ Ð µarly 19-th cÐ µntury. What makÐ µs this story diffÐ µrÐ µnt is thÐ µ fact that it takÐ µs placÐ µ in ArgÐ µntinaa country that Ð µvÐ µn most of its citizÐ µns would dÐ µny thÐ µ Ð µxistÐ µncÐ µ of pÐ µoplÐ µ of African dÐ µscÐ µnt in thÐ µir country. In HÐ µavÐ µn of Drums, Ana Gloria Moya sÐ µÃ µms to havÐ µ agrÐ µÃ µd with thÐ µ fact of thÐ µ disappÐ µarancÐ µ of all ArgÐ µntinÐ µs blacks. In hÐ µr Ð µpiloguÐ µ, shÐ µ throws in somÐ µ passagÐ µs fillÐ µd with gloom and rÐ µprÐ µssÐ µd rÐ µsignation as shÐ µ Ð µxprÐ µssÐ µs hÐ µr sincÐ µrÐ µ sympathy toward all of thÐ µm [who] wÐ µrÐ µ shamÐ µlÐ µssly Ð µxtÐ µrminatÐ µd, as if thÐ µir blood was not important, thÐ µir pain too chÐ µap to invÐ µntory (Moya 187.) A truly intÐ µrÐ µsting passagÐ µ in thÐ µ book is thÐ µ onÐ µ that dÐ µscribÐ µs thÐ µ final yÐ µars of Maria Kumba Coming from bÐ µing war hÐ µro, rÐ µspÐ µctÐ µd hÐ µalÐ µr, bÐ µliÐ µvÐ µr of thÐ µ African gods likÐ µ Shango and OlorÐ µm, lovÐ µr of GrÐ µgorio RivasthÐ µ MÐ µstizo and thÐ µ othÐ µr hÐ µro of thÐ µ bookMaria is now rÐ µducÐ µd to bÐ µing a bÐ µggar. ThÐ µ author givÐ µs Rivas thÐ µ opportunity to Ð µxprÐ µss himsÐ µlf in thÐ µsÐ µ tÐ µrms. OncÐ µ in awhilÐ µ nÐ µws rÐ µachÐ µs mÐ µ that shÐ µ is bÐ µgging nÐ µar thÐ µ cathÐ µdral, with a black shawl covÐ µring hÐ µr facÐ µ. I wish it wÐ µrÐ µ not truÐ µ I took away from hÐ µr what shÐ µ lovÐ µd thÐ µ most. I lÐ µft hÐ µr with hÐ µr hands full of magic but Ð µmpty of lifÐ µ. But I took it away from mysÐ µlf too (Mayo 187). ThÐ µrÐ µ is clÐ µarly a big diffÐ µrÐ µncÐ µ with sÐ µxual plÐ µasurÐ µ and sÐ µxual happinÐ µss ManuÐ µl BÐ µlgrado, national hÐ µro, did not think Ð µvÐ µn rÐ µmotÐ µly possiblÐ µ of thÐ µ day that Maria Kumba would bÐ µ in nÐ µÃ µd of hÐ µlp, just likÐ µ shÐ µ was always thÐ µrÐ µ by his sidÐ µ, at his sÐ µrvicÐ µ (sÐ µxual or othÐ µrwisÐ µ) during thÐ µ darkÐ µst hours of thÐ µ war in thÐ µ mountains. ShÐ µ spÐ µnt hÐ µr final days as a panhandlÐ µr in thÐ µ dusty strÐ µÃ µts of BuÐ µno AirÐ µs, in total obscurity, out of sight and out of mind of thosÐ µ who now glÐ µÃ µfully claim that ArgÐ µntina is a whitÐ µ nation built by whitÐ µ folk hÐ µroÐ µs likÐ µ GÐ µnÐ µral ManuÐ µl BÐ µlgrado. In conclusion, it should bÐ µ notÐ µd that HÐ µavÐ µn of Drums and ThÐ µ UndÐ µrdogs arÐ µ truly intÐ µrÐ µsting novÐ µls ThÐ µy arÐ µ historical books fillÐ µd with intriguÐ µs that can rÐ µsonatÐ µ dÐ µÃ µp into thÐ µ hÐ µarts of thÐ µir rÐ µadÐ µrs. Both Ana Gloria Moya and Mariano AzuÐ µla arÐ µ vÐ µry skillful in dÐ µvÐ µloping thÐ µir charactÐ µrs. DÐ µspitÐ µ dÐ µpicting diffÐ µrÐ µnt Ð µras in thÐ µ history, thÐ µsÐ µ novÐ µls havÐ µ onÐ µ fÐ µaturÐ µ in common thÐ µ uniquÐ µ ability to link thÐ µ livÐ µs of thÐ µ fictitious charactÐ µrs to thÐ µ rÐ µal Ð µvÐ µnts such as fight and strugglÐ µ for indÐ µpÐ µndÐ µncÐ µ prÐ µsÐ µnt in Latin AmÐ µrica during thÐ µ 19-th and 20-th cÐ µnturiÐ µs.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Health Promotion Issue Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Health Promotion Issue - Essay Example One such issue is the issue of smoking among health promoters. This issue is one of the most common issues in health care because it negates the teachings and goals which the health practitioners seek for their patients. Patients who have cardiovascular diseases and respiratory tract diseases may find it hard to take their doctor or nurse seriously if these health professionals advice them to quit smoking. In the end, the credibility of these health promoters is diminished. This paper shall now identify the way in which politics relates to this health promotion issue. In addition, it shall consider one theoretical knowledge base (advocacy) and evaluate the way it relates to practice. This paper is being carried out in order to establish a clear understanding of health promotion and the issues which interfere with it. Discussion Health promoters like nurses, doctors, pharmacists, occupational therapists, and other health professionals have vulnerabilities similar to the general popula tion. Just as the general population can be vulnerable to addictive behaviours and substance abuse, so can health promoters (Ayad, 2010, p. 11). The difference is that these health promoters are fully aware of the dangers that their possible addictions can bring to their body and their overall health condition. Moreover, the fact that these health promoters teach and educate their patients and the general public about applying and implementing healthy habits into their life, makes the addictive behaviours a greater concern (Ayad, 2010, p. 11). For the most part, they are compromising their credibility and believability as health professionals and as health promoters. Statistics in the US indicate that smokers among the health professionals are mostly nurses, with about 8% of nurses being smokers and only 1% of physicians being smokers (Ayad, 2010, p. 11). The fact that some of these health professionals smoke within health facilities makes this issue an even more difficult one to re solve. In the UK, the issue of smoking is more prevalent in the nursing profession, with about 30% of nurses being smokers, as compared to doctors with only about 9% of them being smokers (Nursing Times, 2008). With the above scenario in the health care practice, the issue of health promotion now stems from the credibility of health promoters who are also smokers. The health promotion process among nurses, doctors, and other health professionals can be considered in the wider area of health promotion – in terms of politics and research. Politics, more specifically, legislation and policy-making can help implement wider health promotion standards. In different countries and institutions, no smoking ordinances have been used as a means of promoting better health for the general population. In a study by Fichtenberg and Glantz (2002, p. 325), the authors set out to evaluate the impact of having smoke-free workplaces on smoking employees. This study was able to establish that hav ing totally smoke-free workplaces are linked with the reduced prevalence of smoking among smokers. The combination of decreased ease and convenience by which smokers can indulge their habits is effectively reducing the prevalence of smoking among health promoters. Moreover, smoke-free workplaces help protect non-smokers from the negative effects of passive smoking (Fichtenberg and Glantz, 2002, p. 325). Non-smoking policies in hospitals and in other health care facilities assist in the process of reducing smoking among hea

Friday, October 18, 2019

America should not adopt a nationalized healthcare system because Research Paper

America should not adopt a nationalized healthcare system because - Research Paper Example Another major imbalance if government takes up medical insurance is that healthy people who take care of themselves would be forced to pay for people who overeat, smoke and drink. The philosophy, attitudes and stakes on those in power may be the deciding factor, in determining who gets what, in the future. America spends more on health care than any other country in the world. About 50 million people in America are uninsured, so we should revamp the system, say the supporters for change of the existing system. They complain about the lack of quality in the provision of insurance today. Nevertheless, plans are being proposed to bring these 50 million under the insurance net, without giving a thought to the drop in quality that would come in (Sebelious, 2009). Meanwhile, a huge debate is going on about having a nationalized health insurance policy with the government sponsoring a single payer health insurance. Let us try to analyze how far â€Å"it will lower the cost of health care for our families, our businesses and our governments† (The Obama Plan. 2009). Let us have a look at both sides of the coin. The idea of change has rooted in because we keep spawning politicians who think that they could make everyone’s life better since they have taken from the more ambitious and given it out to the people who do not have it. The politicians do this because it is the best way of presenting this proposed system to the people of America (Q&A: US healthcare reform. 2009). Let me present the best of the arguments, by those in favor of changing the system, one of the sides of the coin, These arguments are based on one false fact that should be pointed out first. The burgeoning population figure of people, who lack insurance coverage, is misleading. It includes illegal immigrants, Americans who earn over $50,000, people who are eligible for Medicaid or S-chip and even people who may have been in between jobs. The figures of non-citizens are nearly 10 million and more

Our bodies our politics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Our bodies our politics - Essay Example Hale in the article Suggested Rules for Non-Transsexuals Writing about Transsexuals, Transsexuality, Transsexualism suggests that non-transsexuals are writing about transsexuals, they should humbly approach their topic since they are not well informed about Transsexuality or transsexualism (2). They should not represent intersex people as all the same while writing. Various social factors such as class and medical conditions affect lives of intersex, and they can never be the same (Hale 3). Additionally, they should not ignore what transsexuals write and say or deny them their academic credentials by demanding that they should possess such credentials when not seriously taken (Hale 5). Further, in the article Suggested Guidelines for Non-Intersex Individuals Writing about Intersexuality and Intersex People, Koyama proposes that while writing one should not uncritically quote non-transsexual who are not experts about intersex people (3). They also believe one should start writing with a working hypothesis to guide his/her writing. They plead not to be judged based on the political agenda of the writer without consulting if it conflicts theirs and might not be superior to theirs. In addition, they say a writer should solely focus on what transsexualism tell him/her about his/her life and not about Trans. The writer should ask himself/herself if he/she can make it in the Transworld. Trans argue that writers cannot write about the figure, trope and discourse of Trans without writing about the subjectivities, lives and experience of Trans (Koyama 6). They conclude by warning writers that if Trans engage in angry, detailed criticism writers should not take that as rejec tion, unnecessary ranting or effects of testosterone, but merely consider it as a gift and a compliment. According to the article Some Very Basic Tips for Making Higher Education More Accessible to Trans Students and Rethink

THE NEW MUMBAI COLLEGE PROJECT Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

THE NEW MUMBAI COLLEGE PROJECT - Assignment Example This rear connection can either be removable or permanent (Constructions methods and technical specifications of Clinton county Engineer: Online). The backhoe loader is small and versatile. The excavator is earth moving equipment that is used for digging works and demolition of structures. They normally come in different sizes but they all have the same design. They are normally made with a pivotal cab that is located on the undercarriage. An arm that extends from the middle is connected to a bucket and on each side; the excavator has tracks that are normally used for mobility. Thirdly, the bulldozer is an item that comes in the form of a tractor and has an undercarriage in the form of a track (Winch, 2008). It has a metal blade that is connected to the front part of the bulldozer and it is used to push loads that are very heavy including sand and refuse after structures have been demolished. The blades of the bulldozer can be changed from time to time. The dump trucks are earth moving equipments that normally allow the transportation and deposition of materials at construction sites. An important feature of the dump trucks is that they provide an efficient mode of transport. The dump trucks are capable of being driven for distances that are long without causing any conflicts with the flow of the normal traffic (Winch, 2008). Skid steer loaders are also earth moving equipment that are simple and are capable of turning on their own footprints. They have wheels and this increases their traction in surfaces such as mud, snow and this helps to reduce the amount of soil compaction while their trend system prevents any damage to the finished parts (Winch, 2008). Trenchers are heavy equipment that is used to dig trenches for laying down pipe networks. They are very appropriate for trenching asphalt and other hard surfaces (Reese et al, 2004). The trencher normally has a conveyor system that carries the excavated materials and deposits it next to the

Thursday, October 17, 2019

A New House Desicion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

A New House Desicion - Essay Example In the case of purchasing a new house, an individual might have to give up the benefit of a vacation trip to Switzerland. When an individual is deciding about purchasing a house, he does not only forgo the benefits of purchasing another good or services, he/she even forgo the cost attached to purchasing a good or service over the cost of good and service he/she has planned to purchase. This is called the cost benefit analysis that an individual has to conduct in order to make a purchase decision. While conducting cost benefit analysis, an individual compares the cost and benefits of purchasing a particular good or service in comparison to the costs and benefits associated with the forgone goods and services (Stretton, 1999, p.206) In the real world individuals are not presented with a situation where they have to choose either one side of the paradigm. For example while purchasing a house, an individual might have an option of purchasing the one located in a low cost area and might h ave another option where the house is located just on the street. Individuals use the concept of marginal changes or in other words alterations that are incremental and meager in nature as stated by the economists. For example: an individual might be under the process of deciding whether to buy a new home or to obtain a home on rent, the decision of whether going for the purchase or rent depends on the marginal costs and benefits that are attached with the decision. Another economic concept that comes into play, while an individual makes the decision of purchasing a new house is the concept of incentives.... People make decision after conducting a cost and benefit analysis for various decisions and they might change their decision over time with changes in the costs and benefits associated with a decision. For example: if an individual obtains an apartment or a home on rent, he might go for purchase of a new home if the cost of renting the house exceeds the benefits of obtaining a house on rental conditions. Due to increase in rents, demand for ownership f houses will elevate, which will increase the demand of new houses and the supply of new houses will increase. Marginal Costs Several marginal costs and benefits are associated with an individual’s decision of purchasing a new home. These costs and benefits need to weigh properly in order to reach a decision that is backed by utmost rationality. The first marginal cost that an individual has to experience is amortization while making the decision to purchase a new home (Arnold, 2010, p.505). If an individual is currently living i n a home that he had obtained on rental basis and in order to purchase a new home requires certain portion of the amount of money the individual is paying as rent for repayments, the different between these amounts is recognized as a marginal cost. This case is mostly experienced by individual as purchase of house is much expensive than obtaining a house on rental basis (Grant, 2000, p.29). Other than the amount of money paid as amortization, individuals even need to take into consideration, the payment of insurance bills that are associated with the purchase of a new home. Another form of marginal cost that an individual might have to pay is the amount of time that an individual spends in traveling from school or work to his or

Summarization essay on The Monkey's Paw by Edgar Allen Poe

Summarization on The Monkey's Paw by Edgar Allen Poe - Essay Example Men, women and families gather together waiting for the lottery to start. Mr. .Summers and Mr. Graves, the postmaster arrives in the square carrying a black box. Mr. Summer is responsible for administering the lottery as he is always willing to do a lot for the village and has ample time to carry this out. This black box he carries is not the original one used by their ancestors as it was lost even before the birth of old Warner. Although this one is worn out and Mr. Summers recommend that it should be changed, nobody has the courage to deceive around the tradition. Nevertheless he is able to use paper instead of the traditional wood chips. These slips of paper are made by Mr. Summer and Mr. Grave last night and for safety locked in a coal factory owned by Mr. Summers. A list of all the people in the village is prepared and Mr. Summers is taken under an oath. Some villagers recall that in the old times, there used to be a song and salutation but these customs have been missing now. Before starting the lottery it is assured that everybody is present. Tessie Hutchinson forgets that today was the day of the lottery and joins her family in haste; she is laughed upon by the crowd. Old Warner’s presence is assured too. The regulations of the lottery are repeated to the crowd. Mr. Summers will read the names of the head of the family and that person will come forward to draw the slip. As the individuals starts to do so he meets everyone and exchange greetings. Nobody is allowed to see the paper until everyone has had his turn. When Old Warner is told by Mr. Adam that villagers of the north town might stop the lottery, he becomes agitated and says that this could guide them to primitives and would bring them trouble. Everyone look at their slips of paper as soon as Mr. Summers stop calling names. In a couple of minutes it is known that Bill Hutchinson has gotten it. Tessie

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

THE NEW MUMBAI COLLEGE PROJECT Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

THE NEW MUMBAI COLLEGE PROJECT - Assignment Example This rear connection can either be removable or permanent (Constructions methods and technical specifications of Clinton county Engineer: Online). The backhoe loader is small and versatile. The excavator is earth moving equipment that is used for digging works and demolition of structures. They normally come in different sizes but they all have the same design. They are normally made with a pivotal cab that is located on the undercarriage. An arm that extends from the middle is connected to a bucket and on each side; the excavator has tracks that are normally used for mobility. Thirdly, the bulldozer is an item that comes in the form of a tractor and has an undercarriage in the form of a track (Winch, 2008). It has a metal blade that is connected to the front part of the bulldozer and it is used to push loads that are very heavy including sand and refuse after structures have been demolished. The blades of the bulldozer can be changed from time to time. The dump trucks are earth moving equipments that normally allow the transportation and deposition of materials at construction sites. An important feature of the dump trucks is that they provide an efficient mode of transport. The dump trucks are capable of being driven for distances that are long without causing any conflicts with the flow of the normal traffic (Winch, 2008). Skid steer loaders are also earth moving equipment that are simple and are capable of turning on their own footprints. They have wheels and this increases their traction in surfaces such as mud, snow and this helps to reduce the amount of soil compaction while their trend system prevents any damage to the finished parts (Winch, 2008). Trenchers are heavy equipment that is used to dig trenches for laying down pipe networks. They are very appropriate for trenching asphalt and other hard surfaces (Reese et al, 2004). The trencher normally has a conveyor system that carries the excavated materials and deposits it next to the

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Summarization essay on The Monkey's Paw by Edgar Allen Poe

Summarization on The Monkey's Paw by Edgar Allen Poe - Essay Example Men, women and families gather together waiting for the lottery to start. Mr. .Summers and Mr. Graves, the postmaster arrives in the square carrying a black box. Mr. Summer is responsible for administering the lottery as he is always willing to do a lot for the village and has ample time to carry this out. This black box he carries is not the original one used by their ancestors as it was lost even before the birth of old Warner. Although this one is worn out and Mr. Summers recommend that it should be changed, nobody has the courage to deceive around the tradition. Nevertheless he is able to use paper instead of the traditional wood chips. These slips of paper are made by Mr. Summer and Mr. Grave last night and for safety locked in a coal factory owned by Mr. Summers. A list of all the people in the village is prepared and Mr. Summers is taken under an oath. Some villagers recall that in the old times, there used to be a song and salutation but these customs have been missing now. Before starting the lottery it is assured that everybody is present. Tessie Hutchinson forgets that today was the day of the lottery and joins her family in haste; she is laughed upon by the crowd. Old Warner’s presence is assured too. The regulations of the lottery are repeated to the crowd. Mr. Summers will read the names of the head of the family and that person will come forward to draw the slip. As the individuals starts to do so he meets everyone and exchange greetings. Nobody is allowed to see the paper until everyone has had his turn. When Old Warner is told by Mr. Adam that villagers of the north town might stop the lottery, he becomes agitated and says that this could guide them to primitives and would bring them trouble. Everyone look at their slips of paper as soon as Mr. Summers stop calling names. In a couple of minutes it is known that Bill Hutchinson has gotten it. Tessie

A Problem Exists Essay Example for Free

A Problem Exists Essay My Assignment 4 Persuasive Paper Part 1: A Problem Exists, will inform of the author’s thesis on this paper. Additionally, the history of gun laws will also be incorporated in this paper. Moreover, this report will speak on several issues and or problems that author looks upon as unfavorable achievements, promoted by gun laws. Lastly, a conclusion for possible improvements if concealed weapons laws were not permitted will be included in this report. As we view the news and read newspaper articles, there continues to be ongoing stories and articles of school and workplace shootings and hostile environments. It appears that individuals of society are even lashing out at the innocent, when things are not done as they may see fit. For example Sandy Hook shooting took the lives of many innocent children, who victims of a troubled individual. Due to the excessive murders that are being committed in schools and workplaces, at this time, the author still agrees that citizens should not be allowed to carry concealed weapons to schools, or the workplace. Georgia actually created the first gun control law in 1837. This Georgia law banned handguns. However it was not long lived, because eight years later The Georgia Supreme Court deemed it unconstitutional and cited the Second Amendment as its basis for this determination. The Second Amendment states â€Å"the right of the people to keep and bear arms (U. S. Const. amend. II, 1791). After the Civil War, Black Codes in several Southern States sought to prevent blacks from owning and carrying guns. That essentially ended in 1868, with the Fourteenth Amendment’s citizenship guarantee and equal rights clause† (Goforth, 2013). Since then numerous laws have been debated and created. The first problem with the right to carry conceals weapon within the school is the potential environmental concern for continuous mass murders. For informational purposes, â€Å"We will begin with the definition of mass murder as four or more murders at a single location (a school, workplace, home or public place)† (Hillshafer, 2013). There have been three significant mass school murders in the past 14 years. They are the 1999 Columbine High School Massacre, the 2007 Virginia Tech Shootings and the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. In the author’s opinion had the administration been allowed to carry concealed weapons the total of murders would have been escalated. Hostile environments more than likely create hostile situations and altercations. â€Å"The likely explanation that Concealed Carry plus Stand Your Ground laws result in 600 more deaths per year is that a young man with a concealed weapon in an argument is more likely to escalate the dispute and think he is standing his ground† (Hillshafer, 2013). As the year 2013 begun there continues to be great debate and political issues on what the gun laws should be or what the laws should cover. In January, 2013 it was written â€Å"The great American gun fight began this month with handshakes and smiles in a reunion of old foes at the Vice President’s ceremonial office† (Schered, 2013). This statement helps to enlighten us on the ongoing political rivalry that continues amongst our candidates. Our American leaders should put focus on what will really save lives on the American people instead of what will make them more famous, prominent or a great candidate amongst the people. As we all maybe aware our country entered a recessional period in the year of 2008. At this time there were numerous lay-offs, â€Å"Nationwide economic recession, which has led to cities and governmental organizational laying-off police and law enforcement personnel† (Nykodym et al. , 2011). This was a period where economic issues were examined thoroughly and everyone was in search of a means to increase revenue. Those layoffs led to increased crime rates in cities, which the author believes were then used for economic gain. â€Å"Record high rates of concealed firearm carry permits issued to the public, motivated by a well-organized social movement for Second Amendment Constructionism, accompanied by increases in firearms and ammunition sales such that many dealers cannot meet customer demand† (Nykodym et al. , 2011). This is unthinkable, but true the unfortunate layoffs boosted our economy on a different level. The author beliefs are that it wrong to take someone else’s misfortune for personal gains. In this situation, it could also cause the death of many innocent victims, because of the high rate of gun sales. In conclusion many aspects were discussed. Such as hostile environments, and the possibility of escalating violence with concealed weapons being present. Additionally, political gains were discussed on how candidates use gun laws as a chance for recognition. And the third point was the unfortunate economic use of gun laws. Perhaps if concealed weapons are not allowed, escalated incidents would not arrive, because defendants/victims would not have that extra boost which causes an occurrence to end with gun fire. If candidates concentrate on the prestige of human lives and not political gain our society could be populated with more individuals who were killed due to unfavorable gun laws. And finally, maybe society should concentrate more on what would be ethically or morally suitable, such as the welfare of all humans. We as humans should stop looking for personal gain in every event that happens along the way.

Monday, October 14, 2019

Ethical issues in advertising

Ethical issues in advertising ETHICAL ISSUES IN ADVERTISING INTRODUCTION Human beings create a number of different worlds. One of the worlds that human beings have created is the world of money, trade, commodities and exchange. To an outsider, this often feels like a world full of beauty and ugliness in equal proportions messy, flashy, exotic and sometimes even scary. Advertisers are often so engrossed with the nitty-gritty of the profession and dealing with as well as outsmarting competition, that they are unable to observe and comprehend this phenomenon. The business arena can be viewed as the world of buyers and sellers, producers and consumers, bosses and workers, a world of money. It is in effect nothing less than an ontological category – A Way of Being. It is not accidental to who we are, but rather, it defines the way we relate to each other as well as to the world around us. However, we must realise that it is not the be-all and end-all, and that there are other ways of Being; the most fundamental of these being Ethics. As per Geoffrey Klempner, Ethics is defined by an â€Å"I-thou† relationship as follows: â€Å"When I engage another person in moral dialogue, there are not two parallel processes of practical deliberation going on, his and mine, but only one. â€Å" This is in clear contrast with the case of a dialogue between traders or politicians, where each is privately deliberating as to how to gain the upper hand. In the former case, one is already committed to the practical consequences of agreement, and of doing the action which by the combined light of both the parties valuational perspective, is seen as the thing to be done. Human beings can belong to more than one world, or even move between worlds. We live in the marketplace and also outside of it. We can either play the various roles assigned to us in the game, or we can step outside of our economic personae and observe ourselves from an ethical point of view. Geoffrey Klempner has put forward three propositions as a prolegomenon to a philosophy for business: Business and commerce take place in a frame, in an arena defined by unwritten rules Normalethics is suspended within the business arena The aim of a philosophy for a business is to understand the rules that define the business arena, i.e. to grasp from an ethical perspective, as tohow business is possible When we claim that in the business world normal ethics is suspended, we do not deny the validity of rules of conduct, such as honesty and fairness. Without these universal rules and these values, the game could not be played. However, these obligations do fall far short of the demands of ethics. Advertising plays a major role in consumer marketing. It enables companies to meet their communication as well as other marketing objectives. Advertising is typically used to inform, persuade, and remind consumers. More importantly, it reinforces their attitudes and perceptions. For decades, advertising has been a target of criticism. It has been hailed as an engine of free market economy, a capitalistic virtue, as, and as a promoter of consumer welfare. On the other hand, its detractors accuse it of an array of sins ranging from sexism to deceit and manipulation, as an economic waste to purveying of harmful products, from triviality to moral and intellectual pollution (Mittal, 1994). Many see advertising as a threat to the self realization and to the cultural identity of the developing countries, since: It brings to many people alien ethical values It may deviate consumer demands in the developing countries to areas which might inhibit development priorities It affects and can also often deform ways of life and lifestyles(Mac Bride, 1980) Advertising is considered unethical in the following scenarios: It degrades the rivals product or a substitute product It gives misguiding information/false information It conceals information that vitally affects human life (e.g. Side effects of drugs) It makes exaggerated claims It is obscene or immoral or is against the broad national interest Even though comparative advertising may be considered legal and given the fact that its widespread use may have granted it acceptance, the debate on whether it is ethical or not, still continues to rage. There is however no unanimity or common ground among advertising professionals and marketing clients with regards to such questionable practices. However, all of them agree to this one aspect, that while considering the question of unethical practices, the focus needs to be to safeguard the interest of buyers at the micro level and of the society at the macro level, since their satisfaction remains the key to marketing success. The criticism has not been limited only to its intended effects on society, but also extends to its unintended effects. Most of the criticism has come from the elite observers of society. In contrast to this however, the general public has historically viewed advertising in a much more positive way. Criticisms of advertising have generally originated from the highest socio-economic classes. Since the earliest days of what now entails the modern marketing era and before, lower and middle class people have historically been more positive towards advertising. (Bauer Greyser, 1968; Fullerton Nevett, 1986; Steiner, 1976; Zanot, 1984). In India, we are still unaware of the extent to which these intellectual criticisms reflect the more widely held consumer beliefs and attitudes. To understand the viewpoints and opinions of the Indian public, we must examine as to how advertising is perceived in terms of its economic, social and ethical impacts. BENEFITS OF ADVERTISING Advertising is omnipresent in todays world, with a large proportion of human and also material resources are devoted to the field of advertising. Advertising has a number of benefits, which we can classify under the following heads: Economic Benefits of Advertising Advertising plays a very important role in the process by which an economic system is guided by moral norms and is responsive to the common good that contributes to human development. It is an essential part of the functioning of the modern market economies, which exist, or are emerging in many different parts of the world as well as those which seem to be the most efficient instrument for effective utilization of resources and also for effectively responding to the needs of different socio-economic kinds. Benefits of Political Advertising As a free and a responsible media, in a democratic system, it helps to counteract the tendencies towards monopolization of power on the part of oligarchies and also the special interests. Thus, political advertising can make a significant contribution by informing people about the policy proposals and the ideas of parties and their candidates, also including new candidates who were hitherto unknown to the public. Cultural Benefits of Advertising Advertisers have the opportunity to exert a strong influence on decisions pertaining to media content. They do so by supporting the material of excellent aesthetic, intellectual as well as moral quality that is presented with the greater interest of the public, and is particularly done by encouraging and making it possible for media presentations to be oriented towards those minorities whose needs go unnoticed and thus un-served. Moral and Religious Benefits of Advertising It has often been seen, that benevolent social institutions, including institutions of a religious nature, make in-depth use of advertising in order to communicate their messages. These may be messages of faith, messages of patriotism, messages of tolerance, or even messages of compassion and neighbourly service. The advertised messages may be those of charity towards the needy, messages concerning health and education, as well as constructive and helpful messages that not only educate, but also motivate people in a variety of ways. High involvement in all aspects of media-related activities, including advertising, has today become an essential part of a highly comprehensive pastoral strategy. ETHICS IN ADVERTISING Advertisings visible social role makes it a target for criticism. Some of todays customers believe that a great deal of advertising is unethical because: It adds to the price of the products It is untruthful It tricks people It targets vulnerable people Numerous advertising-related issues are often left to the discretion of the advertisers and are based on ethical concerns: Advocacy à   Advertising tries to persuade the audience to do something that is not correct. It is not objective or neutral. Accuracy à   Subtle messages trouble critics, especially when aimed at groups such as children, the elderly or the disabled. Acquisitiveness à   Consumers are continually persuaded that they continually need more and more new products. However, consumers make the final decision. ETHICAL ISSUES PREVELANT IN ADVERTISING Even though a section of the media and the public lambasted the advertisers and the advertising agencies for the falling scores of decency and taste in advertising, such advertisements raged on and they have now become the order of the day. Brands that were far-fetched from carnality have started showing all-consuming lust in their advertisements. This trend is prevalent in India as well. It began when on 23rd July 1995, a Mumbai tabloid published a photograph of an advertisement for Tuff shoes that showed models Milind Soman and Madhu Sapre, posing in the nude with a python wrapped around them, just about covering the vitals. The protests and controversy dragged on for a long time. The nation pooh-poohed the audacity of the couple, while the advertisement agencies defended their creative rights. The slogan of advertisers now-a-days is â€Å"Love it. Or Hate it. Or think it is offensive. But you have to notice it.† Advertising is largely criticized since selling carries a stigma. Centuries ago, Anacharis had said, the market is a place set aside where men may deceive each other†. Even to this date despite the significant rise in consumerism and despite the efforts to counter market deception, buyers are still gullible and are not particularly on the guard against deception. Under intense competition and declining profits, the perspective of organizations shifts from what is best for the society in the long run, to what is best for the company in the short-run. The advertisers claim that ethics are fine for the secure however all the slipping that a company needs is the desire for a greater market share. Since advertising pertains to a large audience, it belongs refers to the 4th quadrant of the grid shown below. Thus, the question to be asked by advertisers is, â€Å"What makes a good society?† Advertising thus must address the most controversial, collective level welfare issues. ADVERTISING AREAS THAT COME UNDER THE SCRUTINY OF ETHICS Advertising ethics affects both the practice of our lives and of business, in subtle as well as prominent ways. Ethics in advertisements concern us all in one way or the other. The areas under the scrutiny of the critics are: TYPES OF ADVERTISEMENTS For sex related products Instead of generating awareness among people about the necessity of safe sex and the benefits of birth control, condom advertisements continue to intrigue the audience and especially the youth with the unique feel that it has to offer. E.g. Moods Condoms For health care and professional services The slimming centres which promise miraculous weight reduction and the cosmetic surgery clinics which assure a permanent solution to all beauty problems. E.g. VLCC Slimming Centre For vices with fatal effects Tobacco chewing ads Commercials of alcoholic beverages that tempt the non-alcoholics to have a sip Gambling In early 2001, the Government of India announced that it would table a bill banning the tobacco companies from advertising their products and from sponsoring sports and cultural events. This example brings to the fore both the commercial and ethical dimensions of such a ban. It helps us to understand the role of ethics in a business decision and to understand where to draw the line in making decisions, which involve both ethical and commercial considerations. The element of social responsiveness as well as social responsibility attached to a business ethics dimension results in corporate strategy or even in formulating a business policy. Thus, we see that the connotation of ethics goes beyond the illegal acts of professional managers or even entrepreneurs. It covers the entire gamut of business operation, including ethics in advertising. PUFFERY Puffery refers to the exaggerated claim of a products superiority or it could also be the use of subjective/vague statements that may not be true in the literary sense. The Uniform Commercial Code is responsible for standardizing sales and business practices throughout the U.S. It makes a distinction between puffery as well as any specific or quantifiable statement about the product quality or the performance that constitutes an â€Å"express warranty.† For example, a diner advertisement promoting what it claims to be the worlds best cup of coffee would classify as puffery. Such a claim would be almost impossible to substantiate, and no reasonable consumer would fall for it and take such an exaggeration at its face value. Puffery often makes use of the superlative form of a word, like best or greatest. Puffery might also at times exaggerate the advertised effects of a particular product. SUBLIMINAL ADVERTISING One that is transferred in such a way that the receiver is not consciously aware of receiving it. Subliminal means something that registers below the level of the conscious human mind. The brain perceives all the information in theory however the mind does not interpret the information for a meaning. Numerous studies indicate that quite often, we actually do perceive information at the subliminal level. A good example would be as to how often one would notice when the speedometer in the car is about to roll over to a bunch of zeroes. One doesnt consciously notice the mileage on the car ever so often, but the zeroing does make us pay attention. While driving to work, how many cars do we pass? What makes and models were they a part of? The only ones that we paid particular attention to were most probably the really neat cars or those cars which were driven by the people we recognize. If we notice something consciously, then it ceases to be subliminal anymore. Inserting subliminal messages in advertisements is an inherently misleading action. It involves an attempt to manipulate the thinking of a person, without the person even realizing it. The West has seen a considerable number of subliminal advertisements and related hullabaloos. This is primarily because the advertisement, marketing and the regulating media themselves have been quite active while raising such issues. During the US Presidential elections of the year 2000, it was found that a political advertisement for the candidature of George W. Bush subliminally flashed the word RATS while criticizing candidate Al Gores plan for prescription medicine. While the ad maker was prompt in denying that the quickly flashed word was in fact a subliminal message designed to sling mud at Gore, a large number of people, however, had concluded that RATS was indeed inserted with the surreptitious intention of subliminally causing the viewers to associate Al Gore with vermin. The questionable wo rd appeared on the screen only for a microsecond, thus passing by so fast that it was almost not recognizable to the conscious mind, especially when the mind was already passively lulled by television. As per the theory of subliminal advertising, the image would, actually register in the viewers subconscious mind, thus causing the viewer to negatively associate candidate Al Gore with a rat/rodent. TYPES OF APPEALS IN ADVERTISEMENTS Use of questionable appeals The advertisements that bank on negative appeal and fear like neighbours envy, feud, jealousy etc. are part of this category. Nimbus Neo Sports (Neo) had bagged the telecast rights for the India-West Indies and also the India-Sri Lanka series to be held in India. In January 2007, an ad campaign was launched by Nimbus with the pay-off line being Its tough being a West Indian in India. One of the advertisements in this series showed a West Indian desperately searching for some water to quench his thirst, as his palette is unable to handle the spicy Indian food. However, the Indians put their dirty fingers and their dentures into the water in order to deny him from having a drink. Another advertisement showed a West Indian couple along with an Indian boatman, on a boat-ride. On reaching the centre of the deep lake, the boatman throws the oars into the lake and then disrobes; giving the impression that he would assault the girl. Then, he jumps into the lake leaving the distraught couple stuck in the middle of the lake. Media experts have opined that what according to Nimbus was a creative way of showcasing the competitive spirit in India, as well as creating hype around its new sports channel, had actually trod the fine line between creative and unconventional advertising and respecting the ethical sensibilities of the people. It was felt by some critics that the two advertisements that were shown in the campaign, were in bad taste and also was offensive, since it showed people being mistreated, on the basis of colour/nationality. The advertisements were also criticized for showing Indians in bad light as India has always been known for its hospitality. Stereotypical appeals This includes sexual or racial stereotyping. Advertisements that imply that a woman, whether in the kitchen or in the boardroom, must look sensuous and inviting under any given circumstances, is an apt example of advertisements creating stereotypes. The fairness creams are also responsible for stereotyping the dusky women as being socially less desired for marriage. Other stereotypes that are often portrayed and concretized through advertisements are: Racial Ethnic Stereotypes Senior Citizens Gay Lesbian Consumers LARGER EFFECTS ON THE SOCIETY Given their wide reach and influence on the audience, we must realise that advertisements have significant impact on society in the long run: Value formation Advertisements are responsible for moulding society and the material wants of the people. The advertisements which display scantily clad female models in effect commoditize women. Moreover, the deluge of advertisements that increase ones propensity of consumption makes one feel that it is essential to possess a certain commodity in order to show that one belongs to a particular section (generally, higher echelon) of the society. Media content This refers to the information content of advertisements. Those advertisements which suggest the usage of preserved food items without even the slightest mention of the fact that many of the preservatives used have been proved to have carcinogenic effects are part of this category. Use of deception The advertisements of brands which conceal their negative aspects are included in this category. An example of this is the advertisements of cosmetics which say nothing at all about the long-term effects of using their products on a regular basis. Also, the advertisements of various educational institutes that wrongly claim to provide 100 percent placement to their students fall into this category. Advertisements targeting children and adolescents The advertisements that target the vulnerability of the adolescents and the children result in the creation of role models whom these kids are expected to emulate. This in turn shapes their dreams and aspirations in a truly unbecoming way. ADVERTISERS CONCERN Voice/Tone of the advertisement Comparative advertisements that thrive on inflicting vitriolic attacks on rivals are an example of this category. Copying of ideas and plagiarising of advertisements in the ad world is another such menace. Impediments to research on Ethics in Advertising There exist certain impediments to research on advertising ethics: Lack of practitioner interest Research is often impeded by the inapplicability of published findings to the business operations. Another reason for the same might be the disinterest of corporations in sponsoring research on advertising ethics as also is the funding constraint that cause researchers to rely only on a convenience sample. Lack of sound measures and framework Research is also impeded by a lack of psychometrically sound measurement scales and also a lack of theoretical frameworks in the field of advertising/marketing. Lack of relevant theories in related disciplines Research is also sometimes hampered by theoretical shortcomings in the fields of psychology, sociology, anthropology, management, philosophy and advertising/ marketing. Lack of academic interest Research is often impeded by the lack of a journal editor and the difficulty that researchers face when trying to relate ethical issues to the traditional advertising issues. Why be ethical? During the 83rd Annual Management Conference of the American Association of Advertising Agencies, Keith Reinhardt, the Chairman and the Chief Executive of the US $15-billion company DDB Worldwide Communications Group, quoted the legendary co-founder of DDB, Bill Bernbach: All of us who professionally use the mass media are the shapers of the society. We can vulgarize that society. We can brutalize it. Or we can help lift it onto a higher level. It might be misconstrued that Reinhad is against the edgy and the unconventional advertising means, however, that is not the case. He is against prurient sex, filthy humour and violence in advertisements. By making a success story out of the advertisements that are offensive to public decency, the message being put forth is disturbingly clear: the more rude and shocking you can be, the more successful you will be in advertising your product. Moreover, such advertisements send out faulty signals to the youngsters who represent and shape the future of our society. The people to blame for this are young creative directors who take pride in their eccentric thought process. Not only this, but the advertising industry also encourages this through machineries from Cannes to Clios that help place such creations on the pedestal. Passion is, without doubt, the most important ingredient in creative achievement. However, its flame need not necessarily leap for bullets, obscenity and falsehoods alone. It is essential to reinforce the virtue of positive passion in todays advertising world. It is imperative that ethics is a part of advertising, since we have a duty to live a good and fulfilling moral life. This duty is equally applicable to our business lives as well as our private lives. Marketing professionals also know that strong ethics do bring in good business. REGULATORY FACTORS AFFECTING ADVERTISING LEGISLATION The Federal Trade Commissions main focus regarding advertising is to identify and eliminate advertisements that are deceptive or those that mislead the consumer. The key areas of concern in this regard are: Deception The current policy on deception contains three basic elements: Where there is omission, practice or representation, there must be a high probability that it will mislead the consumer A â€Å"reasonable customers† perspective is used to judge deception The deception must lead to material injury As is evident from these basic elements, deception, in most cases becomes difficult to prove. Thus, even though an advertisement might be indulging in deceptive practices that do not strictly fall under the purview of the above mentioned elements, it cannot be prohibited. Reasonable basis for making a claim The reasonability of a claim is decided on a case-by-case basis. The following factors are taken into consideration in this regard: Type specificity of the claim made Type of product Possible consequence of the false claim The degree of reliance by consumers on the claim made The type and accessibility of the evidence available for making the claim Comparative Advertising Comparative advertising refers to an advertisement in which a particular product/service mentions the name of the competitor for the purpose of showing why the competitor is inferior to the product which is naming it. Comparative advertising by companies are on some occasions used to put down products of rival firms, without any basis or facts. This leads to unhealthy competition in the marketplace. Comparative advertising is considered deceptive unless: Comparisons made are based on facts The differences that are being advertised are statistically significant The comparisons made involve meaningful issues The comparisons are made to meaningful competitors In the 1980s during the period that has been now referred to as thecola wars,the soft drinkmanufacturerPepsiran a series of advertisements in which t showed people caught on hidden camera, and administered a blind taste test, chose Pepsi over arch rivalCoca-Cola. Endorsements An endorser or a testimonial refers to any advertising message that consumers believe reflects the opinions, beliefs or experiences of an individual, a group, or an institution. Endorsers must: Be qualified by experience or training to make judgements They must actually use the product SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY As per Phillip Kotler, â€Å"An organizations Task is to determine the needs, wants and interests of the target markets and to deliver the desired satisfactions more effectively and efficiently than its competitors in a way that preserves or enhances the consumers and the societys Well-Being.† Thus we see that organizations do have a responsibility towards society, apart from achieving their individual profit targets. An organization can exhibit two levels of social responsibility: Level One à   Being socially responsible is a business philosophy Level Two à   The advertiser is engaged in Pro-social Messaging An organization also exhibits different approaches to social responsibility: Obstructionist Stance à   Organization does as little as possible i.e. exhibits a low degree of social responsibility Defensive Stance à   Organization does only what is legally required Accommodative Stance à   Organization meets legal ethical requirements and sometimes also goes beyond what is required Proactive Stance à   Organization seeks opportunities to be socially responsible i.e. exhibits a high degree of social responsibility There are also different levels of Self Regulation that are often seen in organizations: Self-Discipline à   An organization develops, uses and enforces the norms by itself Pure Self Regulation à   The industry is the one which develops, uses and enforces norms Co-Opted Self Regulation à   Industry voluntarily involves non-industry people in the development, application and enforcement of norms UNETHICAL ADVERTISING ON THE INTERNET http://www.rubak.com/article.cfm?ID=13 CONCLUSION Thus, we have seen the various types of advertisements that fall under the purview of unethical advertising, and have also seen the far reaching effects of the circumvention of ethics and morals on the society at large. Wherever freedom of speech and communication exists, it is then largely up to the advertisers themselves in order to ensure that ethically responsible practices are being conducted in their profession. Besides avoiding abuses and falling out of line with the ethical dimension of advertising, the responsible advertiser should also make it a point to undertake the repair and the harm sometimes caused by advertising. Since unethical practices have become commonplace, conscientious advertisers must take it upon themselves to make significant personal sacrifices in order to correct them. However, people who want to do things that are morally right must be prepared to suffer loss and also at times personal injury, rather than doing what is wrong. This does not mean that adv ertising, as we know of it today, be eliminated from the contemporary world. Advertising is an integral element in modern day society, especially with regards to the functioning of a market economy, which is becoming more and more widespread. Moreover, as described in the report earlier, advertising can, and often does play a fairly constructive role in the exchange of information, economic growth, and the ideas, and also in the fostering of solidarity among groups as well as individuals. Despite this, we must keep in mind, that it can als