Several Technologies That Are Less Expensive Than Earlier Versions - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 4 Words: 1074 Downloads: 9 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Technology Essay Type Narrative essay Did you like this example? Several Technologies that is less polluting and less expensive than earlier versions of the technology. List 3 Technologies: Solar cars A solar vehicle is an electric vehicle powered completely or significantly by direct solar energy. Usually, photovoltaic (PV) cells contained in solar panels convert the suns energy directly into electric energy. The term solar vehicle usually implies that solar energy is used to power all or part of a vehicles propulsion. Solar power may be also used to provide power for communications or controls or other auxiliary functions. Solar vehicles are not sold as practical day-to-day transportation devices at present, but are primarily demonstration vehicles and engineering exercises, often sponsored by government agencies. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Several Technologies That Are Less Expensive Than Earlier Versions" essay for you Create order Solar Panels A solar panel (also solar module, photovoltaic module or photovoltaic panel) is a packaged, connected assembly of photovoltaic cells. The solar panel can be used as a component of a larger photovoltaic system to generate and supply electricity in commercial and residential applications. Each panel is rated by its DC output power under standard test conditions, and typically ranges from 100 to 320 watts. The efficiency of a panel determines the area of a panel given the same rated output an 8% efficient 230 watt panel will have twice the area of a 16% efficient 230 watt panel. Because a single solar panel can produce only a limited amount of power, most installations contain multiple panels. A photovoltaic system typically includes an array of solar panels, an inverter, and sometimes a battery and or solar tracker and interconnection wiring. Some Examples of what solar panels are used for are homes-Did you know that by going solar, youll lock in on a low, fixed solar rat e from day one? Switching to solar keeps rising energy rates in check and guarantees a lower monthly electricity bill.. Electric car An electric car is an automobile that is propelled by one electric motor or more, using electrical energy stored in batteries or another energy storage device. Electric motors give electric cars instant torque, creating strong and smooth acceleration. Electric cars were popular in the late 19th century and early 20th century, until advances in internal combustion engine technology and mass production of cheaper gasoline vehicles led to a decline in the use of electric drive vehicles. The energy crises of the 1970s and 1980s brought a short-lived interest in electric cars, though those cars did not reach mass marketing as todays electric cars experience it. Since the mid-2000s, the production of electric cars is experiencing a renaissance due to advances in battery and power management technologies and concerns about increasingly volatile oil prices and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Electric cars have several benefits over conventional internal combustion engine automobiles, including a significant reduction of local air pollution, as they have no tailpipe, and therefore do not emit harmful tailpipe pollutants from the onboard source of power at the point of operation; reduced greenhouse gas emissions from the onbo ard source of power, depending on the fuel and technology used for electricity generation to charge the batteries; and less dependence on foreign oil, which for the United States and other developed or emerging countries is cause for concern about vulnerability to oil price volatility and supply disruption. Also for many developing countries, and particularly for the poorest in Africa, high oil prices have an adverse impact on their balance of payments, hindering their economic growth. Despite their potential benefits, widespread adoption of electric cars faces several hurdles and limitations. As of 2013[update], electric cars are significantly more expensive than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles due to the additional cost of their lithium-ion battery pack. However, battery prices are coming down with mass production and are expected to drop further. Other factors discouraging the adoption of electric cars are the lack of public and pr ivate recharging infrastructure and the drivers fear of the batteries running out of energy before reaching their destination (range anxiety) due to the limited range of existing electric cars. Several governments have established policies and economic incentives to overcome existing barriers, promote the sales of electric cars, and fund further development of electric vehicles, more cost-effective battery technology and their components. The US has pledged US$2.4 billion in federal grants for electric cars and batteries. China has announced it will provide US$15 billion to initiate an electric car industry within its borders Several developmental alternatives to highly polluting industries Industrial Scrubbers- Wet Scrubbers are effective air pollution control devices for removing particles and/or gases from industrial exhaust streams. Wet scrubbers operate by introducing the dirty gas stream with a scrubbing liquid à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" typically water. Particulate or gases are collected in the scrubbing liquid. Wet scrubbers are generally the most appropriate air pollution control device for collecting both particulate and gas in a single system. Pollution Systems offers a variety of Wet Scrubber systems specifically designed for your process application. Many important operating variables are considered when evaluating the size and type of scrubber for any specific application. We will work with you and use our experience and knowledge to provide the proper solution for your process. Typical wet scrubber systems consist of a scrubbing vessel, ductwork and fan system, mist eliminator, pumping (and possible recycle system), spent scrubbing liquid treatment and an exhaust stack. Modern controls are used to monitor the system and make any necessary adjustments. Wet Scrubbers are common in many industrial applications including pollutant reduction at petroleum refineries, chemical processes, acid manufacturing plants, and steel making. They need these for the environment because of the harmful smoke that was created during the process of making steel.. b. Plastic Disposal- Low recycling rates: Plastic is difficult and costly to recycle because manufacturers and consumers discard over twenty different types of plastic, and before they can be recycled, these plastics must be collected, transported, sorted, degreased, and washed. Neither private nor public agencies are investing sufficiently in the systems needed to increase plastic recycling rates. Few manufacturers invest in the compactors and logistical systems needed to recycle their plastic scraps. Few public agencies invest in recycling receptacles for public spaces. A 2009 survey by Keep America Beautiful found that only 12% of public spaces in the U.S. had recycling receptacles next to their garbage receptacles.1 Due to these shortfalls of private and public investments in recycling, the EPA found that only 7.1% of plastics going to US Municipal Solid Waste facilities were being recycled in 2009,2 a number that rose to 8.2% by 2010

Essay On Killer Angels - 1776 Words

Killer Angels is a 1974 historical novel by Michael Shaara. The book tells the story of the Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War. The novel is told through the voices of both Union army and Confederate Army of Northern Virginia leaders who were in battle there. The novel is laid out in days and each new chapter for the day gives a number and the name of the man who is the focus of the chapter. In Killer Angels, the Army of Northern Virginia’s demise is highlighted by a few different features. The failing health and age of Robert E. Lee served to distract him from military obligations, the advantage point the Union side had over Confederate Army at the Battle of Gettysburg, and the most significant reason for demise, was the†¦show more content†¦Throughout Killer Angels, Lee is described in a way as taking it easy because of his heart condition. â€Å"Lee sat down against a rail fence† (106). â€Å"Lee took a quick nap† (143). It’s easy t o see the Lee was doing a lot of resting because of his heart condition. An army cannot be effectively led if the commander is sitting, preoccupied with the pain of a health condition, and taking it easy. Another problem Lee had was that he was seen as a father figure to most of the men and treated them softly. Stuart was supposed to be gathering information for Lee, but instead he was out â€Å"joy riding† which left the Army of Northern Virginia basically blind as to where the North regiments were positioned. Longstreet said â€Å"When Stuart comes back you ought to court martial him† (82). However, Lee believed reproach, letting Stuart know how badly he let them down, would make him a good soldier. When dealing with Stuart Lee â€Å"spoke as you speak to a child† and wanted to reassure him. He treated Stuart softly (256-266). Lee’s age, failing health, and softness on his men was one reason the Army of Northern Virginia lost the Battle of Gettysburg. N ext, the Union had an advantage over the Confederates in the Battle of Gettysburg. Gettysburg is in Pennsylvania which was part of the North, so they were in home territory and had a home field advantage. In chapter 7 of July 1, 1863, Buford for the Union, had secured the best high ground Cemetery Hill, Cemetery Ridge, and Little Round Top. InShow MoreRelated Killer Angels Essay2541 Words   |  11 Pages The Killer Angels The Battle of Gettysburg brought the dueling North and South together to the small town of Gettysburg and on the threshold of splitting the Union. Gettysburg was as close as the United States got to Armageddon and The Killer Angels gives the full day-to-day account of the battle that shaped America’s future. Michael Shaara tells the story of the Battle of Gettysburg through the eyes of the generals and men involved in the action of the battle. The historical account of the BattleRead MoreEssay on Killer Angels1074 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿1. What role does honor play in the novel?   Honor played a major role in novel,  Killer Angels.  Throughout the book, Honor was a concept that remained important to members of the armies, regardless of whether they were supporting the Union or the Confederacy. Every action and decision was made with the intention of being heroic and as honorable as possible. 2. From your reading of  Killer Angels, what do you think was the main reason the Civil War was fought? While the North lightly interpretedRead MoreKiller Angels Essay714 Words   |  3 PagesKiller Angels The pain, joy, bloodshed, death, and sorrow of the Civil War are all contained in the book called, The Killer Angels. This book will show you the thoughts, feelings and actions of many of the leaders of both armies. By reading this book you will get an in depth view of the bloodiest days of the Civil War. Even if you know absolutely nothing about this war, you can still read and understand everything that is portrayed. This story not only gives you the view of many of theRead More The Killer Angels Essay1365 Words   |  6 PagesWars have been fought for many different reasons through the years, and that holds true for the American Civil War (1861-1865). In Michael Shaaras Pulitzer Prize winning novel, The Killer Angels, the reasons for fighting the war are brought about through the officers and soldiers at a famous battle site of the Civil War, Gettysburg. Gettysburg was one of the most documented battles of the whole war. It took place over a span of three days and can be viewed as a turning point from ConfederateRead MoreThe Killer Angels Essay1357 Words   |  6 PagesAngels on the Battlefield In the Battle of Gettysburg that took place on July 1, 1863, and ended on July 3, many casualties and injuries resulted from the fighting between those few days, leading to the victory of the Union Army. As mentioned in the Killer Angels, the hospitals were tents where soldiers were treated for their wounds on the battlefield, in the view of anyone and everyone. Amputations were almost every physician’s immediate response to bullet wounds shattering bones, amongst otherRead More Killer Angels Essay466 Words   |  2 Pages The novel The Killer Angles, by Michael Shaara, gives a story like depiction of the American Civil War at the Battle of Gettysburg. In this novel we see the views of both Confederate and Union armies. The officers for both sides in this novel used to go to war with each other but are now on different sides according to their political views. In the end both armies realized the war had accomplished nothing but all the deaths of soldiers. During the novel, the armies are going to war against theirRead MoreKiller Angels Essay1856 Words   |  8 Pagesauthor argue as to why the Confederacy was defeated at Gettysburg? What evidence does he present to make his point? Do you agree or disagree with him? Trevor Jenke Professor Lockwood History 1301: M-W 12:30 2 December, 2013 Killer Angels Book Review 1. During the Civil War, there were two sides, the Confederate Army and the Union Army. While the Confederates fought for slavery, the Union fought for their freedom. While the Confederates fought for the continuance of state’s rightsRead MoreEssay about Killer Angels1119 Words   |  5 Pages Wars have been fought for many different reasons through the years, and that holds true for the American Civil War (1861-1865). In Michael Shaara’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel, The Killer Angels, the reasons for fighting the war are brought about through the officers and soldiers at a famous battle site of the Civil War, Gettysburg. Gettysburg was one of the most documented battles of the whole war. It took place over a span of three days and can be viewed as a turning point from Confederate prominenceRead MoreThe Killer Angels Essay examples1035 Words   |  5 PagesThe Killer Angels Mine eyes have seen the glory . . . The spy was the first to see the Union army march through the valley. He noted that the army was moving fast and marching in extreme heat. His intentions now were to return and report this information to the General Robert E. Lee. Lieutenant General James Longstreet received him back at camp, and the spy let him know of the information, which he had obtained. Longstreet found it useful information to pass on to Lee. Both Lee and LongstreetRead MoreEssay on The Killer Angels by Michael Sharra1446 Words   |  6 Pages Based of Michael Sharra’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel, The Killer Angels, Gettysburg is a literary adaptation that popularized the bloodiest battle fought between the North and the South during the Civil War. Initially intended as a TV mini series, Gettysburg was produced as a full-length feature film. The film glorifies Union and Confederate soldiers in the historic bloodbath of Gettysburg. The film enables viewers to experience a first hand account of the spirit and battleground of the four-day

Pax Mongolica and Ibn Batutta Essay Sample free essay sample

Our universe has been mostly shaped by audacious adventurers and travellers who dared the unknown and the unfamiliar to enlarge our cognition of the universe. Much of our political and cultural history was defined by adventurers at a clip when the universe was much bigger than it is today. One of these travellers is Ibn Battuta. a celebrated Muslim traveller in the 14th century. Ibn Battuta was born four old ages into the 14th century. He was born in Tangier. Morocco from a comfortable Islamic household. As a Muslim. the desire to go to the Holy City of Mecca was ingrained in Ibn Battuta. When he was 21 old ages old. Ibn Battuta so took the hajj pilgrims journey of some three thousand stat mis to make Mecca. During this pilgrims journey. Batutta became captivated by the sights and sounds that he experienced. Ibn Batutta was neer the same since so and on the route. he found his true naming at last. Batutta decided to go forth behind his preparation as a justice and Islamic bookman and to give his full life to going. vowing to go merely to Muslim topographic points and to neer take the same way twice. ( Dunn 2004. 9 ) Ibn Batutta is likely the most celebrated Muslim traveller and adventurer. His journeys straddled a period of three decennaries. and covered a distance of over a 100 1000 kilometres. His travels took him to three continents. Africa. Asia. and Europe. covering every known Muslim state at that clip. The travels of Marco Polo. Ibn Batutta’s more popular coeval. were much lesser in range and magnitude. All histories of Ibn Battuta’s travels were documented by another bookman. Ibn Juzayy. Juzayy’s certification along with personal memoirs from Batutta himself remains the primary beginning of Batutta’s noteworthy narrative of geographic expedition and find. Batutta’s travel narratives have been compiled in a individual volume known as Rihla. which means journey in English. The Rihla is likely one of the most thorough beginnings of the Muslim universe in the 14th century ( Dunn 2004. 10 ) . The Rihla contains first-hand histories from Ibn Batutta himself. interspersed with some fictional elements to do it more interesting. Ibn Battuta first geographic expedition lasted twenty old ages. His first path was the oil-rich lands of the Middle East. traveling to Saudi Arabia and saw the relics of the ancient civilisations in Iran and Iraq. After some five old ages. Ibn Batutta so went to the land of Africa and so instantly proceeded to India. In India he stayed for about a decennary before go forthing for China. From China he returned place and stayed place in Morocco for three old ages. after which. he left once more for his 2nd moving ridge of geographic expedition. ( Dunn 2004. 16 ) . It might be said that Ibn Batutta lived in an auspicious clip. The fortunes of the universe when he was born made it an ideal clip for travel. When Batutta was born. the Mongols ruled Persia and most of Central Asia. At that clip. the Mongol swayers were change overing to the Muslim religion. ( Dunn 2004. 11 ) As such. Ibn Batutta grew up at a clip when the Mongols provided protection for the Muslims and gave them safe transition all throughout the imperium. Ibn Batutta travelled under the protections of the Islam faith. He was non identified as a Moroccan. but as a Muslim looking to rent the universe of the Islamic people. advancing peace and integrity among brothers of the religion. The Mongolian Empire that dominated the thirteenth and 14th century was able to set up some sense of peace and stableness in all countries of their rule. largely in Eurasia. While by and large considered as barbaric. the ruthless and oftentimes cruel Mongol soldiers succeeded in uniting a big swath of land that has long been pine awaying in struggle and economic depression. At the tallness of the Mongol Empire. its rule covered the largest immediate district in history. It was spearheaded by Temujin. who in 1206 ascended the Mongol throne. Under his leading. the Mongols were united and began their quest to occupy adjacent lands. The strength and pitilessness of the Mongols easy cut into Eurasia. By the early 15th century. after two centuries of conquering. the Mongol imperium ruled over a district that covers about 25 per centum of the world’s entire land country. ( Dunn 2004. 18 ) . Scholars refer to this period of peace and stableness all throughout the Mongolian Empire as Pax Mongolica. based on the construct of Pax Romana. Pax Mongolica gave a renewed revival of trade along the Silk Road. This reclamation of growing and development of Silk Road commercialism under Pax Mongolica was chiefly a consequence of the safe travel conditions that the Mongols provided for its citizens. Protection from force and offense encouraged more people to take to the route and explore. The trade paths along the Silk Road resulted in the exchange of thoughts and civilization among its participants. This exposure to different civilizations accelerated the cultural development of the participants. with each one affecting and enriching the other. Safe transition. This was the chief status that allowed Ibn Batutta to go and research. Under Pax Mongolica. Ibn Batutta was able to travel from one Muslim topographic point to another without any menace of injury. Under the Mongols. it was purely prohibited to steal and damage private belongings. From terminal to stop of the Mongolian Empire. felons and stealers were punished. and everyplace. people upheld the Mongol jurisprudence. A applaudable trait of the Mongols was their tolerance for all sorts of spiritual patterns. Religious prosecution was expressly outlawed. and rough penalty will be fleetly given to those found guilty of such. ( Dunn 2004. 15 ) The rule of the Mongol Empire was purely governed by a codification of jurisprudence that was designed Genghis Khan. which reflected his liberalism and tolerance for other civilizations. This tolerance may hold been mostly a astute military maneuver as he was able to be in good footings with different leaders of the Muslim universe. Genghis Khan’s codification of jurisprudence imposed rough penalties to those found guilty of interrupting its commissariats. As a consequence. there was stiff subject all across the Mongol Empire that made their districts highly safe and well-organized. Dunn therefore describes Pax Mongolica. The conditions of order and security that attended the Pax Mongolica of the ulterior thirteenth and early 14th centuries gave freer drama than of all time to the motion of Muslims back and forth across Eurasia. ( 2004. 11 ) It was in these conditions that Ibn Batutta set out on his journeys. Ibn Batutta made his singular travels during the ulterior portion of Pax Mongolica. Harmonizing to Dunn. Ibn Batutta was able to go under the pretense of four different individualities. First Batutta was a pious Islam who traveled to the Muslim Holy Land of Mecca and Medina. Second. Batutta travelled as a bookman. who went from topographic point to topographic point. prosecuting in erudite and philosophical conversations among the people he finds company with. Third. Batutta travelled as a fan of Mystical Islam or Sufism. and he went to topographic points of celebrated mystics to inquire for counsel and have their approvals. Last. Batutta travelled for leisure and cultural instruction. ( 2004. 11 ) Having been born to an flush household. Batutta belonged to the elite in society who can afford to go for travel’s interest. To ease trade and commercialism and communicating in the huge Mongol Empire. the swayers invested to a great extent on edifice roads and developing a sophisticated mailing system. Travelers were non merely assured of safety. they were besides given commissariats to stay in contact with their loved 1s back place. For Ibn Batutta. this allowed him to be invariably in touch with the people he has met in all his travels every bit good as to the people at place who awaited updates and histories of his travel. It may be said that Pax Mongolia was a consequence of economic and commercial concerns. The Mongols regarded their economic dealingss with adjacent states because they recognized that this was the lone manner to keep peace across the imperium. Peoples who lived in prosperity and peace are less likely to take up weaponries and Rebel. For the Mongols. to promote trade was one of the best ways to protect the imperium it has fought so difficult to set up. Pax Mongolica was a consequence of the demand to merchandise and merchandise necessitated Pax Mongolica. As such. Pax Mongolica facilitated all manners of cultural and economic exchanges from terminal to stop of the huge imperium. Of class a treatment of Ibn Batutta and Pax Monglica would non be complete without undertaking the bubonic pestilence that may hold really good signaled the terminal of the Mongol Empire. The safe transition and protection for travellers along the Silk Road and in and out of Islamic states that allowed Ibn Batutta to research the Muslim universe besides served as vectors for all sorts of diseases. Fortunately for Batutta. he was able to return to Morocco before the oncoming of the bubonic pestilence. Traveling by Dunn’s history. the pestilence started in the bosom of the Mongolian imperium. among the pastoral husbandmans of Central Asia. In 1331 the disease spread outward along the trade paths ( 2004. 271 ) . As Asia smartly traded with European states. merchandisers and travellers exchanged non merely goods and stuffs. the trade paths along the Silk Road resulted in the exchange of thoughts and civilization among its participants. This exposure to different civilizations acce lerated the cultural development of the participants. with each one affecting and enriching the other. The trade routes that Pax Mongolica protected allowed more and more people to take part in trade and commercialism. However. this flourishing of the trade path besides facilitated the spread of diseases. Among the deadliest of these diseases was the bubonic pestilence that swept Eurasia. killing about half of the full population. This pandemic known as the Black Plague killed more people than all of the old wars combined. The Black Plague sliced thorough Europe and Asia. go forthing a trail of some 75 million people dead. The bubonic pestilence came from Asia and spread to Europe along the trade path. It was this really trade path ; the Sellerss and purchasers who were responsible for the spread and development of civilization. were besides the vectors that spread diseases that halted cultural development. States became wary of aliens because of the fright that they may convey infective diseases. Trade became limited to neighbouring countries. ensuing in the stray development of local civilization sans the influence of foreign states. The one time booming trade path became awful beginnings of atrocious and fatal diseases. When the pestilences hit. this interaction slowed down for several grounds. Those who survived the pestilence became wary of aliens for fright of catching another dangerous unwellness. Furthermore. the ruinous loss of life made trade less feasible. There were fewer people willing to purchase. as most were preoccupied with reconstructing their lives. When trades slowed down. merchandisers used to mongering their goods looked for other agencies to sell their wares. Rather than travel. they set up stores where people went to purchase what they need. The bubonic pestilence changed the face of the universe as it was one time. And the one time mighty Pax Mongolica started t o crumple and fall by the roadside. as it was with all other mighty imperiums of history. As Dunn so puts it. â€Å"The Black Death was the grimly dry monetary value the universe paid for the trans-hemispheric integrity of the Pax Mongolica. † ( 2004. 271 ) The universe that Ibn Batutta knew no thirster exists and it shall neer be one time once more. Destiny may hold conspired to fix the route for Ibn Batutta to safely go sop that this brilliant universe will be known for all clip to come. Mentions: Dunn. R. ( 2004 ) . The Adventures of Ibn Battuta. a Muslim Traveler of the Fourteenth Century. University of California Press

Savage Inequalities by Jonathan Kozol Essay Example

Savage Inequalities by Jonathan Kozol Essay The author of the book â€Å"Savage Inequalities† is Jonathan Kozol. The book explores the education system for children in the United States and exposes the extremes of wealth and poverty in Americas public school system and the tragic impact it has on the underprivileged children. Kozol worked as a teacher in the Boston Public School during the early 1960s and witnessed the unfairness of the system towards the poor students of the community. He worked in the basement of an underfinanced, entirely black freedom school that had been set up in a Roxbury Church. It was here that Kozol directly experienced the dismal conditions in which children studied, due lack of state funds. The children were cramped in dirty corners and there were no study materials. Their reading levels were not standard and moreover, there was extreme racial segregation. In the early nineties, he worked at Mott Haven in South Bronx, New York City – another impoverished neighborhood. He also saw that the children also suffered from inadequate medical care, lack of proper housing, unemployment and violence. Coming from this teaching background Jonathan Kozol does have a bias towards the poor and downtrodden and has through this book, he successfully exposes with examples and arguments the neglect of poor and black children in America.Author’s major hypothesis:Kozol unfolds the dark conditions in which poor black children study by narrating his experiences at East St. Louis, Illinois, which as a 98 percent black population and dubbed by the press as â€Å"an inner city without an outer city. The question Jonathan Kozol puts before his readers in ‘Savage Inequalities is whether America is providing equal opportunities in education and if yes, how can one explain the conditions of the children left behind in places such as East St. Louis, Ill., Chicagos South Side, Camden and Jersey City, N.J., the slums of San Antonio, the South Bronx.His major finding is that childr en who attend schools in these places are cramped with 40 or 50 kids to a classroom, a new teacher every few weeks, little or no art, music, foreign language, or advanced science courses, and too few books to go around. These schools have just one counselor for every 700 students, holes in the roof, raw sewage in the basement and a record of 80% dropouts before graduation.   These are innocent children, after all, Kozol writes in Savage Inequalities:   They have done nothing wrong. They have committed no crime. They are too young to have offended us in any way at all. One searches for some way to understand why a society as rich and, frequently, as generous as ours would leave these children in their penury and squalor for so long-and with so little public indignation†. Kozol shows that the normal response to lawsuits or legislative action in various places in America just forces states to spend equally on all school districts. This does not result in any solution because the richest school districts have four or five times more money to spend per student than the poorest. Moreover, there are politicians who claim that money has nothing to do with quality in education. Frustrated with the ground situation, Kozol raises emotion laden questions as ‘Is fairness less important to Americans today than in some earlier times? What do Americans believe about equality?’Quality of Evidence and Solutions:The problem is put forth before the readers in a very convincing manner and with lots of evidence including eye-witness accounts, statistics and interviews. The book is the result of two years of research as Jonathan Kozol visited Americas public schools, especially those in its large cities. He spoke with teachers, students, principals and superintendents, as well as with city officials, newspaper reporters and community leaders. His arguments are built mostly on direct experiences in East Saint Louis, poverty stricken sectors of New York and Chic ago, in the ghettos of Washington D.C., and economically disenfranchised Camden, New Jersey. The author is meticulous in his accounts as he describes buildings, faculties, curricula, and school boards that are all but falling apart. He highlights the plight of the public school systems in poorer sections of America with Chicagos New Trier High or Rye, New Yorks Morris High, where students are allowed luxurious campuses with new auditoriums, student lounges, wood-paneled libraries brimming with books, extensive computer laboratories, and excellent teachers whose average salaries will soon reach $70,000. Kozol even points out that in these schools, students typically study foreign languages for five years, and approximately 40% of the student body enrolls in Advanced Placement course work. Kozol also supports his arguments with statistics. He says, in one of the wealthiest districts on New Yorks Long Island, the per pupil spending amounts to $11,265 annually. Meanwhile, impoverished s ectors of New York City see only $5,590 per student. The inclusion of such statistics and detailed accounts make the book very authentic and Kozol’s arguments evidence-based.Kozol also treats the issue from the legal viewpoint. He refers to the case when the Supreme Court held blacks and whites as separate but equal in Pleasy vs. Ferguson case, almost 100 years ago and to the 1954 Brown vs. Board of Education decision in which the court found that segregated education was unconstitutional because it was inherently unequal.Kozol in fact takes the readers on a personal journey of exploration through public schools across the nation. Through the words and actions of children, adolescents, teachers and administrators, he helps us perceive the dreams and desires of children for a complete adulthood. While many of these dreams are similar across economic, racial, or gendered lines, we learn that the paths for reaching those futures are unevenly paved.Kozol also approaches the issue from various viewpoints. There is a psychiatrist who tells Kozol that white Americans are literally bored hearing about racial injustice. The psychiatrist explains: They see a slipshod, deviant nature-violence, lassitude, a reckless sexuality as if it were a character imprinted on black people†.   A school principal in the Bronx eloquently puts it: â€Å"if they do not give these children a sufficient education to lead healthy and productive lives, we will be their victims later on. Well pay the price somedayin violence, in economic costs†. Gifted children, says Dr. Lillian Parks, the superintendent of the citys schools, are everywhere in East St. Louis, but their gifts are lost to poverty and turmoil†¦They have no feeling of belonging to America . . . Impact of the book:Personally, on reading this book, I was shocked to realize that such conditions exist in such a country like the United States, which the whole world looks up to. A civilized population is not o ne that would be practicing racial discrimination especially on children. The book also shows that there are in reality neglected school systems and much modernized school systems existing side by side in the United States. It is clear from Kozol’s arguments that funding is a major reason for the differences; Kozol is not convincing in his argument that money can solve the problem of education. There are many children from poor immigrants who have come up in life through sheer hard work. The United States offers them opportunities at all levels to come up as long as they are willing to work hard and think constructively. There are many celebrities who have come from poor black communities. Moreover, the issue of education should be seen more holistically and include other problems such as children’s exposure to social evils such as gang problems, drug addictions and domestic violence. Thus, the problem of education for poor children should be viewed from a socio-psycho logical angle rather than from an economic one.Apart from that I also find that the book is highly powerful and invokes the noblest of emotions with ease. I was most deeply touched by Kozol’s experience during Black History Month when dutiful references were sometimes made to The Dream. Martin Luther Kings vision was that of a nation in which black and white children went to school together. We have a schoolnamed for Dr. King, said one 14 year-old girl, The school is full of sewer water and the doors are locked with chains. Every student in that school is black. Its like a terrible joke on history.Moreover, Kozol helps the reader to make his own deductions by emotionally appealing to his judgment. Savage Inequalities is not full of statistics and officially documented pages. Rather it is rife with images that enable the reader to directly sense the â€Å"manner of being† of poor students in under-funded city schools. For example, in a passage Kozol (1992) describes the oppressive life conditions of an eight-year-old Chicago orphan: â€Å"He talks to himself and mumbles during class, but he is never offered psychiatric care or counseling. When he annoys his teacher, he is taken to the basement to be whipped. He isnt the only child in the class who seems to understand that he is being ruined, but he is the child who has first captured my attention. His life is so hard and he is so small; and he is shy and still quite gentle. He has one gift: He draws delightful childish pictures, but the art instructor says he â€Å"muddles his paints.† She shreds his work in front of the class. Watching this, he stabs a pencil point into his hand†.He then talks about the same child sever years later: â€Å"Seven years later he is in the streets. He doesnt use drugs. He is an adolescent alcoholic. †¦To affluent white shoppers he is the embodiment of evil. †¦Three years later I visit him in jail†¦He was jailed for murdering a white man in a wheelchair† (pp. 194—195). Kozol captures the spirit of the child, frustrated by the way society treats him, being transformed into a criminal one. The book is a must read for all citizens of the United States. It can help us understand the reasons of increasing violence and drug problems among the youth. As far as I have thought about Kozol’s arguments, I believe, changes in public education can be wrought by the adoption of a flexible way of understanding and defining community for purposes of schooling, the securing of the independence of all schools and teachers from government regulation of content, and the establishing of an equality of school choice for all families regardless of wealth.Conclusion:Savage Inequalities is about the lack of resources to make the America dream come true for every child. The book is primarily an appeal for fairness in American public education. It is a work that appeals to the educated public and government to do something to ensure that the life of every young person in the United States be afforded dignity, respect, and the hope for worthwhile future. Kozol shows clearly in his book â€Å"Savage Inequalities† that this can be achieved only if we are first of all ready as a nation to provide an equitable education for all American youth. While the book does not offer any concrete solutions for solving the problems in education faced by poor black children in America, the book does has the power to make people think. As Somerset Maugham says in his novel â€Å"Razor’s edge†: â€Å"the effect may be no greater than the ripple caused by a stone thrown in a pond, but one ripple causes another† and Kozol’s work is presently just that; a self-expanding ripple.

Life Through Music free essay sample

The morning air made my fingers cold as I walked into the gym. I could hear the telltale sounds of an orchestra warming up. The middle-school orchestra had come to play for us, and the piece they performed was Brandenburg’s Concerto #3 in C Major. I fell in love with that piece, and even though I was only a fourth-grader, I vowed to play it one day. At that point, I knew little about music, but I loved the way it sounded. Following that assembly, I immediately went to the sign-up table. I looked at the many instruments and didn’t have any idea which to pick. They all looked the same. I did notice that the viola was the least chosen. So I signed up for it; the viola to violin ratio was astounding. I was, however, content with my choice. Our first day of rehearsal, my young mind was shocked. We will write a custom essay sample on Life Through Music or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The orchestra had 14 violins, two violas, and one cello. It was a rather pathetic little group, but we all had one thing in common: we loved our instruments. We played through Mary Had a Little Lamb and Hot Cross Buns with a lot of difficulty, but still we played. We had heart, which is so important when playing an instrument. I kept playing though elementary and middle school, and finally I got to high school. I got my first viola for my birthday freshman year. (Previously I had used school rentals). It was Hungarian, and didn’t have the best tone because I hadn’t learned to break it in, but I eventually did with my first private teacher. I took lessons at the Pasadena Conservatory of Music during sophomore year with an experienced violist who played in our local symphony orchestra. She taught me to hone my skill, and I’ll always remember when she said, You have the skill, Evan, but you lack the will power. Those words motivated me to practice more and become active not only in my school orchestra, but also in school itself. Now a senior, I have been playing the viola for eight years. I have almost given up many times, and had it not been for the persistence of my family and teacher, I probably would have. Playing the viola has helped me with many skills, including my level of responsibility. It has also helped me to organize my thoughts and my life. Learning the viola also prompted me to begin an entire life dedicated to music. I have learned the guitar, drums and bass guitar with help in no small part as a result of my experience with the viola. It has truly led me down a musical path, and I trust it will continue to do so for years to come.

Americas Teens Up In Smoke Essays - Human Behavior, Smoking, Health

America's Teens Up In Smoke Essays - Human Behavior, Smoking, Health America's Teens Up In Smoke Americas Teens Up in Smoke On every street corner in America, you will find a teen smoking. Even though a number of commercials and school orientations have given the effects of smoking, the kids feel they are invincible to the effects smoking can cause. Tobacco companies have targeted the youth, ages eleven to seventeen, because they are the future of their industry and very influential (Britannica online). Yes it is true; the future of America has been the focus of their progression. However, how can we have a healthy outlook on the future if 34.8 percent of our youth are inhaling five hundred chemicals into their bodies (Britannica online)? Society needs to focus on telling teenagers the numerous effects of smoking, so they can live a healthier life. The effects of smoking have long been proven to destroy out bodies. The number one disease caused by smoking is cancer. Ola James husband died of lung cancer this past summer. She says Every time I see someone light a cigarette, I think of how sick Richard was and it breaks my heart. She has watched the one person who meant more to her than anyone else in the world, die from a disease that TV has advertised for years. Although a smoker for many years, Richard James might be alive today if he had quit smoking when he was young. Smoking can also cause emphysema, which is a condition of the lungs marked by distension and frequently by impairment of heart action. Smoking has also been known to cause yellow stains on teeth, inflamed gums, periodontal disease, and other diseases of the mouth (Britannica online). With that in mind, who wants to have a cigarette hanging out of their mouth? Well the answer to that question can be answered in two words . . . todays youth. While no one really understands why teenagers take their first puff, whether its peer pressure or another reason, the fact is that they do. Obviously they dont have a high regard for their health. After repeatedly being told that smoking is bad, teenagers just do not seem to care. Another problem with smoking is the effects it has on others around you. Studies have shown that second hand smoke is more dangerous than first hand smoke (askjeeves.com). It causes those around them to be more susecptable to getting respritory problems and cancer. Now the 34.8 percent of the youth are not only bringing themselves down, but they are bringing down the rest of the population with them. If teenagers continue to smoke while they are pregnant, it will result in low birth weights and/or severe birth defects. This is not making Americas future look to bright. Although teenagers have been warned of the effects of smoking, they will continue to light up whenever and wherever they please. We as citizens must fight to make teenage smoking harder to start. We must make new laws, ensure that America follows these laws, and punish those who break them. I dont know who had it worse, teenagers fifty years ago who didnt know the effects of smoking, or teenagers today who do know the effects and just dont care. Smoking is doing nothing but harming the youth through diseases, and hurting those around them. If they knew more about the effects, then maybe they would not be so quick to start.

Database and Data Warehousing Design Assignment

Database and Data Warehousing Design - Assignment Example The functional systems, for example marketing, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and so on, supply data the warehouse and making use of Extract, Transform and Load (ETL) approach the data is retrieved from the data warehouse (Rizzi, Abello, Lectenborger and Trujilo, 2006). Since the firm under discussion is concerned with a large volume of data to be considered for evaluation, for that reason, the data warehouse is suggested for execution by the company. The data warehouse would bring about the company not just in its business, but in addition delivers many different added benefits to the company. A few of the factors that motivate the execution of the data warehouse in the firm involve: the data warehouse in a position to cope with massive data, it generates reports instantly, accordingly. Saves time, it offers premium quality data and presents increased business intelligence. Nevertheless, the benefits are invariably linked to down sides, the risks of the data warehouse embody: investing time in extracting, clearing and uploading data, developing high upkeep system, and resource optimization. Keeping in mind the drawbacks of the data warehouse, there are particular rules and best procedures which the business has to stick to these while employing the data warehouse. Some of the most effective tactics that the organization ought to comply with incorporate: investing proper time in accumulating needs and style, building prototypes, correct usage of the centralized and in depth data, building data credibility checks and supply of correct training to the clients. Since the database of the firm is substantial, for that reason, the company must not deem building the relational data warehouse. On the other hand, the company is suggested to make use of the index partitioning and tables. It is advisable that the organization must comply with these best procedures to put into practice

The Death of Socrates by Jacques-Louis David Assignment - 9

The Death of Socrates by Jacques-Louis David - Assignment Example The researcher states that when one looks at the painting, they can see that everyone in the composition is mournful and sorrowful except the stoic man in white drapery at the center of the artwork. Here is a man who maintains his resolve in the wake of death and decides to stick to his principles, despite being condemned to death for the same philosophy. The researcher wants this painting to be viewed at his funeral because it is a representation of strength, loyalty, and principle. The researcher intends to live his life as he always has, remaining true to himself and living by a code of practicing what the author believes in. The researcher wants people to know that he did not live life in fear, that instead of mourning, they should celebrate his life, achievements, failures, and impact on the society. Jacques-Louis’ composition is a perfect representation of the bravery and principle, with which the researcher has lived his life. The researcher not only intend on living a life of values and principle, he also intends on using this values to positively impact society, as Socrates influenced Plato.

Ethics in Business, Risk Management, role of insurance and Goodwill Essay

Ethics in Business, Risk Management, role of insurance and Goodwill - Essay Example The fourth step is decision making, which involves selecting the most ethically sound alternatives. Fifth is implementation of the approved alternatives. The sixth step involves monitoring both the direct and indirect impacts of the implemented alternatives. Finally, appropriate and justifiable modifications and corrective measures must be undertaken to eliminate undesirable effects of the implemented alternatives (Jones, 2011). In essence, risk management proves instrumental in mitigating the effects of negative business trends and incidents, thus reducing the impact of those negative trends to business entities. One practical aspect of risk management is risk tolerance level. Tolerance levels can be marked in terms of time frame, risk capital, and attainment of business objectives (Smith & Zhang, 2010). Personally, my risk capital level is 50% of my net worth. In contemporary business environments, persons with high risk tolerance levels can cushion themselves against risks by taking insurance covers. Insurance covers provide protection and coverage in case of losses resulting from business uncertainties (McDaniel, 2007). For example, insurance covers can compensate insurance policy holders against fire related disasters on their business premises. In practical contexts, insurance policies are sold by insurance brokers. Factors to consider when selecting the right insurance broker include the level of reputation and testimonials from previous and existing clients, specialization field of an insurance broker, and professional fee charged by an insurance broker (McDaniel, 2007). In mergers and acquisitions, goodwill is the intangible value of a company’s brand reputation, customer relationship standards, and future value of net assets and intellectual properties. Among the parameters used in valuation of goodwill include calculation of net assets, derivation of assets’ market

Industrial Relation System In Japan Management Essay

Industrial Relation System In Japan Management Essay Industrial Relations usually refer to relationships between labour and capital that grow out of employment. There are two parties in the employment relationship-labour and management. Both parties need to work in a spirit of cooperation, adjustment, and accommodation. In their own mutual interest certain rules for co-existence are framed and adhered to. Opinions about IR in Japan are extremely diversified. The main concern regarding IR appears to be whether Japan can maintain the vitality and flexibility to cope with the changes in the industrial structure and technology in a stagnant world economy. The lack of opposition and dispute between labour and management may be the most important feature for summarizing labour-management relations in modern Japan when making international comparisons. The study highlights IR in Japan and pointing out lesson that Bangladesh and Sri Lanka can take. The research is based on desk study. Moreover, the recommendation would be helpful to the practi tioners, researchers, planners, policy makers and academicians, who are involved in the concerned area. Keywords: Industrial Relations (IR); Employment; Capital and Labour JEL Classification: M1, M1, M54 Introduction The relationship between employer and employee or trade unions is called Industrial Relation (IR). Harmonious relationship is necessary for both employers and employees to safeguard the interests of the both the parties of the production. In order to maintain good relationship with the employees, the main functions of every organization should avoid any dispute with them or settle it as early as possible so as to ensure industrial peace and higher productivity. Human Resources Management (HRM) is mainly concerned with the human relation in industry because the main theme of HRM is to get the work done by the human power and it fails in its objectives if good industrial relation is maintained. In other words good Industrial Relation means industrial peace which is necessary for better and higher productions. IR may be understood in both inter and intra terms-that is between employers and employees, between employees and employees and also between employers and employers. Such diverse relations are the outcome of modern industrial production, entailing an enormous body of collective work and involving the corporate labour of a huge number of people in an enterprise. Of all these relations, however the one between employers and employees is of paramount importance under the system of capitalist relations of production. Some authors define the term industrial relations also as either the full range of rule governing the work place (Dunlop, 1958), or a study of the institutions for job regulations (Allen,1975) or even the maintenance of stability and regularity in industry(Richard,1981) IR is also concerned with determination of wages and conditions of employment. IR and human relations are distinctly two indispensable factors in industry, one depending on the other we can have good industrial relations in an industry, but bad human relations in the same establishment and vice versa. Good industrial relations provide the necessary background for human relations. In any undertaking, good relations between the management and workers depend upon the degree of mutual confidence, which can be established. This, in turn, depends upon the recognition by the employees of the goodwill and integrity of the management in the day-to-day handling of questions, which are of mutual concern. The first requisite for the development of good industrial relations is a good labour policy. The aim of such a policy should be to secure the best possible co-operation of the employees. Every employee should have the opportunity to contribute not only his services, but also his suggestions and ideas towards the common effort. The basic needs of an industrial worker are freedom from fear, security of employment and freedom from want. Adequate food, better health, clothing and housing are human requirements. The human heart harbors secret pride and invariably responds to courtesy and kindness just as it revolts to tyranny and fear. An environment, where he is contented with his job, assured of a bright future, and provided with his basic needs in life means an atmosphere of good IR. IR has several roles in the industrial development in any country; two fold objectives of good industrial relations are to preserve industrial peace and to secure industrial-operations. If we have to establish industrial peace, the workers must be assured of fair wages, good conditions of work, responsible working, holidays and minimum facilities of life. The objectives of good industrial relations should be development and progress of industry, through democratic methods, stability, total well-being and happiness of the workers, and industrial peace. Hence, industrial peace is the fruit of good industrial relations. The following objectives have been considered. To understand the philosophy and concept of IR; To focus on present scenario of IR policy in Japan,Bangladesh and Sri Lanka; To suggest some possible solutions for developing and improving the IR to Bangladesh, Sri Lankan from Japanese perspectives. Material and Methods Given the nature of the present study, it was required to collect data from the secondary sources. The authors were always careful of the objectives of the study and collected data accordingly to achieve those objectives. Secondary data were collected from research studies, books, journals, newspapers and ongoing academic working papers. The collected data may be processed and analysed in order to make the present study useful to the practitioners, researchers, planners, policy makers and academicians of the concern area. Analyses and Findings The analyses of findings have been discussed under the following sub-heads. Industrial Relations IR plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining industrial democracy (Monappa, 1995). IR indicates the status of the relationship between the employers and employees in general. Better relationship is always designed which, however, rarely remains in a satisfactory stage and in a static position because of various internal and external factors. The concept of IR has a wide meaning. The expression IR by itself means relationship that emerges out of day-to-day working and association of labour and management. But when taken in its wider sense it includes the relationship between an employee and employer in the course of running of an industry and may project itself to spheres which may transgress to the areas of quality control, marketing, price fixation and disposition of profits among others (Johri,1969). IR, thus, when taken in its wider meaning, is a set of financial interdependence including historical, economic, social, psychological, demographic, technological, occupati onal and legal variables (Singh, 1968). Industrial Relations in Bangladesh Democracy in the larger society is a prime and essential condition for the development of industrial relations. In Bangladesh, the extent of democracy is very poor. It is surprising to note that after independence, the frequent changes in government and emergence of military rule during 1975-1979 and 1982-1990 hampered the democratic environment for industrial relations in general and trade unionism in particular. Since independence, every government has been found to participate in the trade union activities directly through the formation of labour front. Due to government interventions, the industrial peace and productivity were affected a number of times. For example Awami League government maintained close contact with the workers through Jatiya Sramik League (JSL) the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) government did so through Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal (BJSD), and Ershad government did the same through Jatiya Sramik Party (JSP). The level of industrialization in Bangladesh is very poor. The level of employment is very poor too. Here the supply of labour is always much higher than that of the demand for labour. So the labour cost is low. Out of a total civilian labour force of 70 million about 2 millions are unemployed. Here the industrial workers are not at all class conscious. Due to very poor literacy level, workers of Bangladesh are completely in the dark about their rights and obligations. The labour force participation rate in trade unionism is only 12%. Due to improper physical fitness and lack of sufficient skill the productivity of our workers is very low. As a result, they cannot contribute towards the higher level of profitability to the employers, thereby causing their level of wages to remain low. Till now the Government of Bangladesh could not ensure a satisfactory level of minimum wage for the workers (Khan Taher, 2009). Multiplicity of trade unions is one of the great weaknesses of labour politics in Bangladesh. As a result of weak strength, trade unions in Bangladesh is facing a number of problems like increasing political influence, inter and intra-union rivalries, unhealthy competition in collective bargaining agent (CBA) election, employers, tendency to avoid CBA process and develop opportunities among the trade union leaders etc. The opportunistic nature of trade union leadership has been responsible for poor labour movements. Most of the time, the trade union leaders acted as agents of employers and of the political governments. Industrial Relations in Sri Lanka IR in Sri Lanka has arrived at the cross roads which makes an interesting study for the Human Researches Specialist. The Sri Lankas shifting from a centrally planned economy to a market economy in 1977. Since 1977, the socio-economic changes were greatly influenced by the radical changes in the external environment, globalization, information technology (IT) revolution and changing consumer needs. These changes in the socio-economic system of the country have resulted in contradictions and conflicts in the sphere of IR. With the emergence of the market economy and resultant competition, the achieving of the desired economic growth was the challenge for the government.   At micro level, business corporations fought for their survival in a competitive environment. This situation has provided a new challenge to partners involved in IR. Historically, the state has played a key role in managing IR in Sri Lanka. The state intervention has more in the nature of labour legislation and in the area of dispute settlement. Since early 20th century, these laws have been enacted to protect the less privileged partner i.e. Labour/Employee. Hence the labour laws in Sri Lanka have a bias towards the employee and this rigidity has adversely affected the progress of business. For example, the Termination of Employment Act 1971 prohibits the termination of employment except in case of disciplinary matters without the permission of the Commissioner General of Labour. Even though plethora of labour laws protects the employees, it has been a hindrance to the business activity. The business community has made several appeals to the Government to effect appropriate such changes in labour laws to meet the current environment. Such changes in the form of entrepreneurial labour laws are urgently required not only to meet the needs of the S ri Lankan economy, but also to facilitate the working population. Being a developing country, it is natural that the state needs to protect certain less privileged class of the society from the economic transformation. In addition, in a democratic country, the working class is a source of strength to political parties. In this context, the present Peoples Alliance Government formulated the Workers Charter to safeguard the rights and privileges of the working people. The salient features of the Charter: (a) The commitment to the principles of the Declaration of Philadelphia and the labour standards adopted by the International Labour Organizations (ILO); (b) Recognition of trade Unions; (c) Encouragement of Collective bargaining; (d) Strengthening of existing laws to protect employees interest; (e) Defining casual, temporary and others forms of non permanent employment and; (f) Bringing forth a code of industrial harmony. Employers strongly felt that their views have not been duly considered and it was not the opportune item to bring forward this piece of legislation. The employers argued that the requirement was not for a workers Charter, but for an Employment Charter. Even though six years have lapsed, the government has still to bring in legislation for this purpose except an amendment to the Industrial Disputes Act providing recognition to trade unions and prevention unfair labour practices. The reluctance on the part of the government to provide legal enforcement to the workers Charter indicates that the government despite, an election pledge, has realized that such labour laws should not be allowed to restrain the development of a free market economy. De Silva stated that Labour law always presents the perennial problem of balancing the interests of capital and labour and at the same time protecting public interest. Again, more than any other branch of the law, labour laws reflects governments o r societys moral tone and attitude towards social issues. The Employers Federation of Ceylon (EFC) was established in 1930 as a counter measure to deal with trade unions under this manner employer to be united and disciplined to managing labour issues; and more importantly, the need for building up a mutual understanding between employers and workers. EFC has taken 50 years or more to reach the 200 mark in membership. However, since 1980, during the period of 20 years, the membership grew to over 500. The reasons for this growth besides the free market policies introduced in 1977, was the direct result of the need for industrial relations service. The lack of expertise within the workplaces to handle industrial relations prompted the employers to seek support and assistance of EFC. It is also significant to note that since 1980, the EFC has made a fundamental change in their approach. It shifted from their emphasis of providing legal services to assist the employers in adopting better Human Resources Management (HRM) practices in managing p eople at their workplaces. At the micro level, the relationship between the employees and the trade unions has been adversarial. The history of numerous conflicts between the employers and employees during the colonial rule and the post-independence era has greatly contributed to the development of this situation. Amongst other reasons: (a) Being unaware of the significance of trade unions in national and organizational context; (b) Lack of understanding in modern management techniques, (c) negative approach of Trade Unions; (d) Lack of professional management in HR; (e) Concealed hostility of the employers based on bounded rationality. Nevertheless, the experience have made employers realize that such antagonistic approach would lead to unsatisfactory relationship, loss of work hours resulting in from industrial disputes thus affecting the productivity. With the emergence of market economy, this would adversely affect the ability of the enterprise to be competitive. In this context, many employers have begun to adopt an approach of understanding towards trade unions and also making concerted efforts to establish cordial relationship with the workforce by adopting sound HR practices. From the inception of the trade union movement in 1930s, trade unions have adopted an antagonistic approach towards management. This may be due to Sri Lankan trade unions becoming appendages of Marxist/Leninist political parties espousing a class struggle and having a history of agitation against colonialism/establishment. Despite the rapid disappearance of Marxism/Leninism globally, some trade unions continue this class struggle approach without understanding the changes in socio-economic environment. Trade unions have been comfortable in adopting this adversarial attitude and make every endeavour to keep their membership away from the management. Another significant characteristic of the trade union movement is the politicization in which major trade unions are linked to major political parties. The political parties continue to treat unions as source of power. It has been observed that on certain occasions, the behaviour of trade unions has been motivated by political objectives r ather than the interest of the working class. This along with multiplicity of trade unions have had an adverse impact on the unity and strength of trade unions. However, since 1977, this situation has been subjected to gradual change. (1) The competition in the marketplace has prompted the trade unions to review their approach. The antagonistic approach would affect the business, which could result in loss in employment. (2) New generation of workers are more concerned about their welfare and personal interest rather than espousing political ideologies. This is amply demonstrated from the fact that the number of trade Unions have decreased from 1636 in 1977 to 1428 in 1996 and the membership has been static at 1.6 million of 7 million of working population. The ratification of ILO Convention 144 on Tripartite Consolation by the Sri Lankan Government signifies the acceptance of the need to consult the employer and employer organizations by the government in regard to matters of mutual interest. The significance of this event is that the acceptance of the principle that the government should consult the other two social partners at national level make sit morally obligatory for the employers to consult the trade unions at organizational level. The structures of tripartism have existed in diverse forms, but there has been little effort to co-ordinate and harmonize the interest and work of the social partners or to provide them with the role of active participation at national level such as: (a) Minimum wages fixed for 40 trades by Wages Boards set up by the Labour Ministry under the Wages Boards Ordinance, are tripartite in character. These boards permit a consultative approach to the fixing of terms and conditions; (b) A National Advisory Council was set up in 1989, with the objective of having a permanent consultative mechanism within the Ministry of Labour. The objectives of the council were broadly to consult worker and employer interests on policy matters and implementation of proposed changes in Labour law; (c) Employees councils were made obligatory by the Employees Council Act No. 32 of 1979, in public corporations and government owned undertakings, to encourage participation of employees in the affairs of these org anizations; (c) In the Free Trade Zones (FTZ) administrated by the Board of Investment (BOI), companies are expected to set up Joint Employees Councils as a condition of licensing. Tripartism cannot be strengthened or placed on a stronger base by passing legislation. If the desired results are to be achieved, the implementation of the laws must be monitored and enforced to some extent. Persuasion and educating the workers as well as employers on advantages of consultation and dialogue at all levels are considered desirable than enforcement of laws. It is imperative that the attitude of officials should change. They should be facilitators rather than regulators in promoting good industrial relations. It has been observed that at national level, there seem to be a tendency for some unions to affiliate and also employers interested in working together to deal with problems on a common front. It also appears that more and more bipartism is exhibited at work place which is a good sign of collaboration by social partners. EFC in 1989 suggested to ILO a strategy to build up a tripartite consultative process to be the joint responsibility of the EFC and the Trade Union s. The first phase was a join body on Safety and Health. This industrial Safety and Health Association (ISHA) brought the parties together in a spirit of co operation on Safety and Health. This led to a seething up of another mechanism called Labour Management Consultative Committee (LMCC). The collective bargaining/agreement is a mechanism under the provisions of the Industrial Disputes Act to resolve disputes and to maintain industrial peace. The government has ratified ILO Convention 87 on Freedom of Association and 97 on Collective Bargaining. One of the key reasons for the employees to organize themselves was for the purpose of collective bargaining, and the EFC has been instrumental in encouraging this process in the private sector and responsible for the many collective agreements signed to date. Even though this is a mechanism that could be used to the benefit of both parties, due to numerous reasons the use of this process in a greater extent has been restricted. Firstly, the employers have found that apart from industrial peace, Unions in general do not wish to offer in return, other benefits such as productivity, rationalization of work arrangements. Industrial Relations in Japan The central features of the Japanese industrial relations system include workplace focused enterprises unions, lifetime employment systems, broad based training and seniority based wages. Another outcome of the Japanese institutions such as the Keiretsu system and the system of production organization (subcontracting and quality-focused, team based work) is the simultaneous achievement of stability in labour market terms and considerable functional flexibility in work place level industrial relations through the development of internal labour markets. The Japanese follow permanent employment system, consensus decision making and patriotic leadership. The Japanese respect the senior and senior behaves just like a guardian not like a boss. Management treats all as team members whether executives or workers. They emphasize on continuous customer focus improvement in quality and total involvement. There is disagreement on the date of institution of the Japanese industrial relations system. Taira (1970 as cited in Khan Taher, 2009) suggested that the lifetime employment practice developed in the late 1800s in the silk industry where employers, forced to compete for scarce labour, instituted lifetime employment to create stable employment conditions. The key practices were encouraged by the government, which institutionalized several of them during the inter-war period in its Factories Act of 1938. Enterprise unionism emerged post war based on the structure of the firms (the large employers who accounted for a significant share of employment). Jacopy (1993) and Gordon (1985) (as cited in Khan Taher, 2009) also suggested that precursors to the current system could be seen in the company unions of the 1920s, with institutional occurring during the interwar period. Cusumano(1985) argues that it was the early labour-management crises in the post-war period, coupled with the revolution in production management that account for the creation of the more advanced aspects of the internal labour market in Japanese industry. Okayama (1986) also credited the industrial strife of the 1950s as the most important variable in the development of the Japanese Industrial Relations system, a view also held by Kenney and Florida (1994) and Takahashi (1997) who argued, The main stimulus (for lifetime employment) was the experience of large-scale conflict between labour and capital in the early post-war years, partly in response to many workers being made redundant as the war industries shut down. Employers sought a way to end or reduce this conflict, not a social or political norm impervious to pressures of economic change. (as cited in Khan Taher,2009). There were several changes in the Japanese system over the 1970s and 1980s. Notably, there was erosion in the seniority based wages concept, as wages began to be tied increasingly to skills acquisition and productivity, while employers had started the practice of mid career hires in white collar and technical occupations. The practice of Shukko- transferring employees to other parts of the Keirestu during downturns-had gained in prominence over the last two decades. Recent Changes in Industrial Relations of Japan In the 1990s, there has been acceleration in the change already underway, as well as changes in other practices that constitute the core of the Japanese (IR) system. This has been due in large part to the effect of the recession of the 1990s, as Berggeren, argues, which has been the deepest one since the 2nd World war. Thus, in the 1990s, there has been a significant questioning of the lifetime employment concept, with severe declines in job security on an unprecedented scale, changes in hiring practices from schools and universities, a dramatic increase in outsourcing strategies, the introduction of limited term employment contracts for some occupations, increased wage flexibility, and some degree of union restructuring, along with evidence of breaking up of some Keiretsus. By themselves, any one of these changes might suggest a gradual adaption to new economic circumstances, but all of these happenings together in the 1990s suggest the critical importance of the 1990s recession in forcing employers to question the existing practices and act to change them. These changes came as a movement towards transformation of the industrial relations system given that the evidence suggests changes in most aspects of employment relations in Japan, such as job security, hiring, corporate governance, wages and wage flexibility and the role of seniority, as well as union structure, and would seemingly consist of a significant eroding of the three pillars and a move towards and a move towards a more individual based system such as in the United States (Brown, Nakata, Reich and Ulman,1997). There is also some evidence that the Keiretsu system is breaking down after the crisis, possibly as a result of firms capital requirements, and thus one major source of the stickness seems to be weakening ( as cited in Khan Taher,2009). Lessons for Bangladesh and Sri Lanka from Japanese Perspectives Proper industrial relations imply harmonious and peaceful relations between labour and management. In such a situation both labour and management realise their mutual obligations toward each other and resort to actions that promote harmony and understanding. For making a fruitful comparison in the characteristics of industrial relations in between Japan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, we need to make a systematic analysis. The main lessons for Bangladesh and Sri Lanka may be summarized as follows: The level of organizational commitment among the workers and employees should be increased; Human Resources should be treated as organizations assets rather than a money making machine; Management of conflict and employee grievances should be handled effectively which ultimately would lead to innovation and productivity improvement of a concerned organization; During selection and promotion of candidates (employees) a human resource manager should follow a standard method and all candidates can get equal treatment without bias; The activities of industrial relations in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka should be free from the influence of party politics; Organizational polices and strategies should be formulated and also implement through general consensus between the workers/employees and the employers. Policy Implications Although the present study was confined to IR in Japan: Lessons for Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, it may be appropriate to state briefly the policy implications for the study. In this context, the following policy actions may be considered worthwhile. Proper Demographic Environment It is essential that in order to ensure effective IR, a proper democratic environment in the greater society is essential. In the absence of democratic environment the employers may try to exploit the workers and even the workers may try to adopt unfair means, thereby disturbing industrial harmony. Efficient management Efficient management, capable of performing its duties professionally and thereby satisfying both the parties- the employers and the employees-is indispensable. Sprit of Collective Bargaining The relationship between an employee and the employer will be congenial only when the differences between them are settled through mutual negotiation and consultation rather than through the intervention of any third party. Existence of Strong and well organized trade unions Industrial relations will be sound only when the bargaining power of the workers unions is equal to that of management. A strong trade union can protect the workers interest relating to wages, benefits, job security, etc. Existence of sound and organised employers unions These associations are helpful for the promotion and maintenance of uniform Human Resource (HR) policies among various organizations and to protect the interests of weak employers Concluding Remarks In fine, it can be said as to industrial relations in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka that despite a much smaller number of work stoppages in recent years the industrial relations have been far from being sound. There were attitudinal problems of mistrust, multiplicity of unions, political affiliation of unions on deep ideological grounds, employers reluctance to part with information, their undermining the importance of unions and by passing laws, unions not representing the interest of the workers but of the political parties and overwhelming emphasis on third party settlement which has not proved too effective. The recommendation would be helpful to the practitioners, researchers, planners, policy makers and academicians, who are involved in the concerned area Text and References Allen, F., Industrial Relations: What is wrong with the System, London: Faber, 1975, p.10 Cole, G.D.H.,.An Introduction to Trade Unionism, London: George Allen and unwin Ltd,1955 Cunnison, J., Labour Organization, London: Pitman and Sons, 1930, p.13. Dunlop,J.T.,Industrial Relation System, New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1958, p.5. Johri, C.K.., Normative Aspects of IR: Issues Indian Labour Policy (Ed.), New Delhi: Shri Ram Centre of India, 1969 Khan A.A Taher, M.A., Human Resources Management and Industrial Relations, (3rd ed), 2009, pp.18-45. Monappa, A., Industrial Relations, New Delhi: Tata McGraw-Hill Publishing Company Limited, 1955, p.9. Richard, H.(1981). Industrial Relations: A Marxist Introduction, London: Macmillan Press Ltd, 1981, p.11. Singh, V.B., Climate for Industrial Relations, A Study of Kanpur Cotton Mills, Bombay: Allied Publishers, 1968, p.1. Webb, S Beatice., A History of Trade Unionism Longman: London, 1910,p.13.

How Does Steinbeck Present Curly’s Wife

Of mice and men’ is one of Nobel Prize winning author John Steinbecks most poignant. ‘ Set in the 1930s during the Great Depression it features two farm workers called George ad Lenny. The travel around together in search of work sharing a dream of a place of their own- a small ranch where they can live and work for themselves. It tells the story of how violence may erupt to destroy those dreams. Curley’s wife- as she is known to the audience- is the only women on the ranch. Without the identity of a name she is known only by association of the man she doesn’t even like. Despite her marriage to Curley she flaunts herself around the ranch in inappropriate clothing ‘she had full rouged lips†¦She wore a cotton housedress and red mules,’ flirting with ranch hands and is conscious of the effect she has on men. These clothes and her behaviour I think are designed to provoke interest and attention rather than to invite intimacy. She seems preoccupied with strategies to avoid detection from her husband and manages this by continuously asking of his whereabouts. ‘Have any of you boys seen Curley? ’ Like George, Lenny and later on Candy, Curley’s wife has a dream despite it being one of great contrast to theirs. She has an ambition to work in films ‘coulda been in the movies and worn nice clothes’ and this is no doubt stemmed from her desire for attention and is linked to her loneliness and insecurities on the ranch as she bitterly resents not being treated as an individual. Men make promises to her ‘he says he was gonna out me in the movies’ but she appears to lack the intelligence to realise the emptiness of their promises. The perceptions we make of Curley’s wife are corrupted from the views of the ranch hands. Because sexuality is her only weapon she is referred to as ‘jailbait’ and ‘ a tart’ ‘Jesus what a tramp. George has reason to be weary of her presence especially with Lenny around and the incident in Weed. ‘Listen to me you crazy bastard†¦ Don’t you even look at that bitch Curley’s wife is first presented to us on page 32 ‘ the rectangle of sunshine in the doorway was cut off’ a girl was standing there looking in’ Curley’s wife has brought darkness supposedly symbolising the potential danger of her character. During the last chapter Steinbeck cleverly attempts to alter our perception of Curley’s wife by portraying her in a different light. During chapter five, Lenny has just killed one of Slim’s puppies by clumsily petting it. His tendency to inflict damage through trying to show affection is become more prominent. Steinbeck creates an atmosphere of tragedy and doom in which the reader is aware of Lenny’s anxiety ‘and rattled the halter chains. ’ Curley’s wife enters wearing ‘a bright cotton dress’ and ‘red ostrich feathers’ and the reader already knows of Lennies attraction the colour red which creates a sense of painful inevitability. Her face is ‘made up’ and her ‘curls’ are in place†¦ This suggested to me that she has obviously made herself as seductive as possible. Curley’s wife is attracted to Lenny because he has got the better of her husband. I think she has worked out an arrangement to ensure that Lenny and her will be alone without interruption but Lenny is acutely aware of George’s instructions to avoid conversation with her aswell as the consequences of not being able to ‘tend he rabbits. ’ She is desperate to talk to him ‘you’re a nice guy, why can’t I talk to you? ’ and when getting the chance to do so the words pour out of her in her passion for communication although Lenny barely listens. Here she describes her desire to be an actress, her naivete in thinking her ‘old lady’ had stolen the letter and why she married Curley and not liking him. Yet it is as this point that despite her provocative dress sense and her sensuality we realise that she wants only to talk to Lenny ‘why can’t I talk to you? I never talk to nobody. I get awful lonely’ and comfort him when he tells her how he has killed the puppy, ‘don’t you worry none. ’ Steinbeck has cleverly created a more passionate portrayal, someone we can feel sympathy for. At the point where Curley’s wife offers for Lenny to stroke her hair ‘feel right round there, feel how soft it is’ the audience are uncertain as to whether this is an innocent, childish act referring to its texture or that she is knowingly leading Lenny towards a sexual encounter. It is also apparent at this period, of how young she actually is, the act of stroking hair is very harmless and childlike, not what we would expect of her character earlier in the novel. She is likened to a little girl who wants to feel physical contact without sexual trace. When Lenny is petting Curley’s wife’s hair he proceeds in ‘mussing it up’ I noticed how she only struggled when she came to this realisation again pointing to her self-image and vanity. Lenny mistakenly breaks Curley’s wife’s neck and is fatally killed. Lenny escapes and we are left with a desciption of the setting of the barn and of her, ‘and the meanness and the planning’s and the discontent and the ache for attention were all gone from her face’ here Steinbeck sums up everything we already know about her but in a way that transforms the way we think about her. Still with flawless skin she appears ‘pretty and simple†¦sweet and young’ a complete contrast to what is perceived of her in earlier chapters. I think her death could have just as well of been caused by Lenny’s unthinking roughness as by any decisions of hers that things had gone to far. A ‘shepherd bitch’ symbolises an entity that Curley’s wife will never possess, this being children ‘jumped in among the puppies. ’ Curley’s wife is undoubtedly one of the most poignant characters in the novel and one that Steinbeck portrays his feeling for than any other character.

Christian spirituality Essay

People in this realm have diverse attention to different facet of their lives. Some of which believes in a certain perception contrary to the views of the other and it all boils down to a premise that we in this universe have enormous preferences which truly makes us unique. Similarly, it has the same wavelength when we put into account the very imperative issue of faith and strong adherence to believing in God. Donald Miller in his masterpiece Blue like Jazz, he exemplifies the avenues of spirituality and how it is possible to enlighten the views of the readers as they go through the work of art. Uplifting the souls is the focal element of the author and parallel to this, the central aspiration of this paper is also to epitomize the intriguing views of the author and at the same time squeeze out the necessary lessons in life that will ultimately open the minds of the readers. By having the views of the book by means of its meaningful experiences of the author, we could have a brilliant grasp to what really is life in a spiritual way. Any occurrences that have been demonstrated in the book will truly it will shed light to our naked eye. The personal reflections of the author contribute to our understanding to the nature of God and how to respond to this indulgent. The ingredients in Donald Miller’s Blue like Jazz are driven by the perceptions towards sex, love, community, family and God. It absolutely speaks on what it feels to have an in depth connection with God and how to examine our inner self on what we truly believed in despite the challenges of our malicious environment. The point of view as regards to searching for spirituality and believers who wanted to have a strong relationship with God was the intentions of this masterpiece. It is intended in the latter part of the paper to expound in a Christian approach the impressions and attitudes in relation to the concept of Miller. Indeed, it is expected that at the end of this paper, the readers should have a strong attachment in relation to the subject matter of spirituality and the things that it entails. Donald Miller tackles the life’s spices which includes sex. The question of does love can be truly be proven by sex is at hand. It has been said that you can love with all your heart but you cannot scientifically examine it. Accordingly, it is an intense feeling which flows inside that makes your personality fortify. The feeling surely brightens our outlook even though it does not undergo several test because what proves it is our own selves per se, â€Å"love for example is a true emotion but it is not rational, what I mean is people actually feel it, I have been in love, plenty of people have been in love yet love cannot be proved scientifically† (Miller, 2003). The author makes use of the penguins as case in point in elaborating how making love can truly transform into something essential in our lives. It says the instances wherein penguins have their own way of showing their love to their partners and at the same time giving value to their siblings. The intensity of emotions in relation to their responsibilities was intact in this scenario. The male penguins take hold of the responsibility of looking after the eggs and in due time the eggs will mature. It has been demonstrated how the female penguins goes back after sometime to witness their little penguin. This was a good elaboration of a strong connection with our loved ones. We sense the right time when it is necessary for us to be there. Similarly, Miller take hold of this picture to emphasize the essentiality of faith that without even seeing it, we know that the love of God is there for us. The timing that the penguins epitomize truly connotes a strong feeling of union that is so unique in our being rational. Being a Christian entails a lot of faith to be able to have a strong grip on what we believed in. Indeed, it signify us the right usage of our intellect and free will as we chooses to have a relationship with our God. â€Å"I don’t think you can explain how Christian faith works. It is a mystery and I love this about Christian spirituality. It cannot be explained and yet it is beautiful and true. It is something you feel and it comes from the soul† ( Miller, 2003), on a brilliant concept, the secret ingredient of a happy life is no other than the healthy bond with God hand in hand with the faith that we have in our lives. In relation to the love that has been showed to us by the instances in the lives of the penguins, we can perceive how essential it is to feel the love and give it back as well. As we all knew, love is a huge topic but at the same time the most interesting subject matter of all time. It is the one wherein we could all take part into. Furthermore, it is the area where varieties of people of all ages can adapt which makes it more interesting for that matter. The reflection of Christ love for the church can emulate in the event of marriage where two souls binds together to be one. The acceptance of differences as well as giving back the love that they received towards the other are the things that makes a real and unconditional relationship. The vocation of marriage enlightens us and ultimately gives joy to our everyday lives. Giving ourselves completely to others has a very deep meaning because it entails acceptance of other person in our life and submission of our inner self. In the circumstance that Miller shares to its readers when he had a conversation with Paul, his friend who is very happy in his married life, he got the realization how incredible it is to be in love and to be loved. Given that some of his friends give him a feedback of a wrong approach of dealing with women, upon talking to Paul he realized that marriage encompass to love your self as well. In order to protect your relationship it is essential to have a factor that will compromise the both parties. In the case of Paul and his wife, they find time to have their own privacy, in that way they’d be able to respect each other which also gives mystery to the relationship that they have, â€Å" I’m saying there are stuff I can’t tell her not because I don’t want to but because there aren’t words. It’s like we are separate people and there is no getting inside each other to read each other’s thoughts, each other’s beings† ( Miller, 2003). In accordance with this, marriage is not all about the two people that has been bind together, it is also about who is the center of their relationship which truly binds them together, â€Å"I am glad I married Danielle and I will be with her forever but there are places in our lives that only God can go† ( Miller, 2003). It is imperative to have God as the center of our relationship. He brings out the best in us when He guides us. As we consistently ask for His love and guidance, the relationship that we have will ultimately be filled with joys and abundance of love, â€Å"I mean that to be in a relationship with God is to be loved purely and furiously† ( Miller, 2003). The best exemplification of what we have learned from the undying love of God to its people was our strength to do the same with our loved one and to other people that surrounds us. As we go back to the essentiality of grace, the application of such is a contributing element in making a successful family life surrounded by blessings and guidance of our almighty. Does the connection we have with God extend a deep relationship with the people that surround us? This is an uncertainty that some of us having a hard time finding the real answer because we are in one way or the other uncertain to what we really wanted to build as relationship with the people we rarely know. Parallel to this, at some in our lives we find it hard to accept a person beyond our wavelength. We set criteria of who we are apt to build rapport to the point that sometimes neglect the importance of a person basing on his or her individuality and not in his/her spirituality. How the community that you belong really changes your outlook in life and your relationship with God? At some point in our lives, we got used to living in our own way far from other people. We live and spend our time alone that we miss the part of our lives that we get along with other people in our community, â€Å"I didn’t know what to think about living in community at first. I had lived on my own for about six years and the idea of moving in with a bunch of slobs didn’t appeal to me† ( Miller, 2003). In lieu of which the exchange of ideas that we get from other people is also essential in our existence in this realm and we could only get this by means of interacting with other people. Like that of what the author showed to us, the interaction with other people was lacking in a sense that became self centered. Some of the people that surround us might misinterpret that gestures that we convey simply because we are not used to living with other people. The lessons of life can simply be available if we look at life in a different manner – and that is to intermingle with the people in our community. On top of this, it is good to apprehend that God enlightens our perspectives in life. He usually guides us in whatever decision we come up to and in this case, God makes him realize the importance to dealing with other people and appreciate their existence, â€Å"God brought me to Graceland to rid me of this deception, to scrub it out of the gray matter of my mind† ( Miller, 2003). The capabilities that the community has could contribute to the knowledge that we have and in this manner, we can help each other grow in our own little way. Family is one of the focal points of our lives. This is where we get the strength and inspiration that we need to continue with our life. We can never deny the fact that this aspect of our life has a huge impact in our personality as well as with the attitude that we project to the people that surrounds us. It is absolutely the time of our life that we think of other people more than our selves because we prioritize our family more than anything else, â€Å"If you don’t love somebody, it gets annoying when they tell you what to do or what to feel. When you love them you get pleasure from their pleasure and it makes it easy to serve† (Miller, 2003). This instance does not necessarily mean that you wouldn’t love and serve God because you don’t love Him; you don’t love Him because you did not see Him. Ultimately, this is not the case when we talk about our faith and love for God. Our strong belief in the love of God for us and for humanity was undeniably great. We adhere to His principles and we follow His teachings which make us a better person. God’s love for this human race was irrevocably unconditional that he continuously accepts us despite our shortcomings in life. Enormously, God did a magical thing in our lives as he consistently touches our souls and guides our ways. As we scrutinize the importance of the author’s portrayal of what magic truly is, we might get fascinated with the allure of the thought of magic alone. It is true that when we were younger, our attention was easily derailed with the magical world but in fact everything is just a trick. In fact, there is a loop hole in every magic that has been showed to us it’s just that we are too young to recognize it. As a kid, we just focus on the elements that will satisfy our fascination neglecting the truth that magic is just a form of entertainment. â€Å"I got frustrated because everything that was magic was only a trick, meaning it wasn’t really magic, it was an illusion† (Miller, 2003), same with our lives, the figment of our imagination lies on what our naked eyes can reach but we miss the part that the reality of life is always at hand. God provides us with wonderful environment where we could exhaust all our efforts to achieve what is really beautiful beyond the temporary magic that we acquire for a moment. â€Å"Everybody wants to be fancy and new. Nobody wants to be themselves but they want to be different† (Miller, 2003), it is extremely important to pause for a while and contemplate on what we really needed in our lives. We project a gesture that we are different but what is more important is to have a closer look of what magical feeling God is providing us. Indeed, where we lived at a moment is the result of the brilliant love of God for us. What we are in this universe is the output of God’s goodness to this humanity. There are instances in our lives that at some point we have to be rigid with our faith and by doing so, one has to be profoundly knowledgeable on what really comprises his persona and what he truly believes. Having a strong faith is undeniably one of the greatest discoveries in our lives. The very essence of our trust in God is to know the principles of His words, in lieu of which we are apt to follow His commands that are very important in the foundation of our dogmatic belief in God. It is ultimately important for the people to know God and His wonderful deeds. It is beyond doubt that behind God’s creation lays an astonishing message of building ourselves completely. God is all knowing that He provides all the things that we need in continuing the path of our lives. We obey God, we follow His will and we become a better person is what truly matters in this masterpiece. In view of the great knowledge that has been embarked on us making available the work of art of Donald Miller, it gives us the enlightenment that we seek as we go along with the pages of this book. The manner in which the author presents his perception was incontestably comprehensible. It gives his reader the time to contemplate and grasp what he really wanted to go halves. Giving examples as well in the context of his elaboration of his insights truly adds to the substance of his subject matter. It really doles out the purpose of the author to stretch the faith of his readers. The values that we got from Blue like Jazz truly define the voice of God. Beneath the pages of this work of art lies the realization that life is full of magical thought, it is just in our hands to explore these things to make it visible. Our capacity to look at things in a different way is beneficial as we continue to battle with the challenges of life, like that of the book, its mysterious titles expounds what it really wanted to convey in its readers and this is what God wanted to happen, we define our selves in a manner that is reachable and at the same time life worth turning the pages.