Case Digest Aglipay vs Ruiz

Facts: In May 1936, the Director of Posts announced in the dailies of Manila that he would order the issuance of postage stamps commemorating the celebration in the City of Manila of the 33rd International Eucharistic Congress, organized by the Roman Catholic Church. The petitioner, Mons. Gregorio Aglipay, Supreme Head of the Philippine Independent Church, in the fulfillment of what he considers to be a civic duty, requested Vicente Sotto, Esq. member of the Philippine Bar, to denounce the matter to the President of the Philippines. In spite of the protest of the petitioner’s attorney, the Director of Posts publicly announced having sent to the United States the designs of the postage for printing. The said stamps were actually issued and sold though the greater part thereof remained unsold. The further sale of the stamps was sought to be prevented by the petitioner.Issue: Whether the issuance of the postage stamps was in violation of the Constitution. Held: Religious freedom as a constitutional mandate is not inhibition of profound reverence for religion and is not a denial of its influence in human affairs. Religion as a profession of faith to an active power that binds and elevates man to his Creator is recognized. And, in so far as it instills into the minds the purest principles of morality, its influence is deeply felt and highly appreciated.When the Filipino people, in the preamble of their Constitution, implored â€Å"the aid of Divine Providence, in order to establish a government that shall embody their ideals, conserve and develop the patrimony of the nation, promote the general welfare, and secure to themselves and their posterity the blessings of independence under a regime of justice, liberty and democracy,† they thereby manifested their intense religious nature and placed unfaltering reliance upon Him who guides the destinies of men and nations.The elevating influence of religion in human society is recognized here as elsewhere. Act 4052 contemplates no religious purpose in view. What it gives the Director of Posts is the discretionary power to determine when the issuance of special postage stamps would be â€Å"advantageous to the Government. † Of course, the phrase â€Å"advantageous to the Government† does not authorize the violation of the Constitution; i. e. o appropriate, use or apply of public money or property for the use, benefit or support of a particular sect or church. In the case at bar, the issuance of the postage stamps was not inspired by any sectarian feeling to favor a particular church or religious denominations. The stamps were not issued and sold for the benefit of the Roman Catholic Church, nor were money derived from the sale of the stamps given to that church.The purpose of the issuing of the stamps was to take advantage of an event considered of international importance to give publicity to the Philippines and its people and attract more tourists to the country. Thus, ins tead of showing a Catholic chalice, the stamp contained a map of the Philippines, the location of the City of Manila, and an inscription that reads â€Å"Seat XXXIII International Eucharistic Congress, Feb. 3-7, 1937. † The Supreme Court denied the petition for a writ of prohibition, without pronouncement as to costs.

Belief Statement

PERSONAL MISSION STATEMENT I am at my best when I am unselfish and positive about what the future brings me. When I am looking forward to benefiting myself and others. I will try to prevent times when I let the negativity and harsh conditions I have come across in the past affect me and the ones I care about. When I start losing faith in myself and my Lord. I will enjoy my work by finding employment where I can make sure that the environment is safe for the people.I will find enjoyment in my personal life through providing myself with knowledge and wisdom and enjoying the company of people no matter what the occasion is. I will find opportunities to use my natural talents and gifts such as God-given willingness to give a helping hand to those in need. I can do anything I set my mind to do. My life's journey is to travel to a land far away and protect the townspeople from a magical dragon. By defeating it, I will be praised and called Savior. I will forever stay and defend the land fr om any potential threats.I will be a person who would be remembered as a loyal friend, faithful husband and a law-abiding citizen. My tribute statement should be about how I lived by putting the ones I love and care about before myself. My charisma and kindness would be appreciated as well. My most important future contribution to others will be to love and care for the ones I love for as long as I live. Always by their side and willing making sure that everyday with me would be a gift. I will stop procrastinating and start working on time and focus in my education so that it can benefit me and bring fortune to my future.Start taking good care of my body and mind by eating, exercising and maintaining good habits. Better Decision making and surrounding myself with the right people I will strive to incorporate the following attributes into my life: Constant unconditional love, unselfishness and charisma from my mother. I will constantly renew myself by focusing on the four dimensions of my life: Taking good care of my body, Finding Enlightenment, Having Faith in God, Treating others the way I want to be treated

The Lost Duke of Wyndham Chapter Six

Jack had always prided himself on being able to spot the irony in any situation, but as he stood in the Belgrave drawing room – correction, one of the Belgrave drawing rooms, surely there were dozens – he could find nothing but stark, cold reality. He'd spent six years as an officer in His Majesty's army, and if he'd learned one thing from his years on the battlefield, it was that life could, and frequently did, turn on a single moment. One wrong turn, one missed clue, and he could lose an entire company of men. But once he returned to Britain, he'd somehow lost sight of that. His life was a series of small decisions and insignificant encounters. It was true that he was living a life of crime, which meant he was always dancing a few steps ahead of the hangman's noose, but it wasn't the same. No one's life depended upon his actions. No one's livelihood, even. There was nothing serious about robbing coaches. It was a game, really, played by men with too much education and too little direction. Who would have thought that one of his insignificant decisions – to take the Lincoln road north instead of south – would lead to this? Because one thing was for certain, his carefree life on the road was over. He suspected that Wyndham would be more than happy to watch him ride away without a word, but the dowager would not be so accommodating. Miss Eversleigh's assurances aside, he was quite certain the old bat would go to extensive lengths to keep him on a leash. Maybe she would not turn him over to the authorities, but she could certainly tell the world that her long-lost grandson was gadding about the countryside robbing coaches. Which would make it damned difficult to continue in his chosen profession. And if he was truly the Duke of Wyndham†¦ God help them all. He was beginning to hope that his aunt had lied. Because no one wanted him in a position of such authority, least of all himself. â€Å"Could someone please explain†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He took a breath and stopped, pressing his fingers against his temples. It felt as if an entire battalion had marched across his forehead. â€Å"Could someone explain the family tree?† Because shouldn't someone have known if his father had been the heir to a dukedom? His aunt? His mother? Himself? â€Å"I had three sons,† the dowager said crisply. â€Å"Charles was the eldest; John, the middle; and Reginald the last. Your father left for Ireland just after Reginald married† – her face took on a visible expression of distaste, and she jerked her head toward Wyndham – â€Å"his mother.† â€Å"She was a Cit,† Wyndham said, with no expression whatsoever. â€Å"Her father owned factories. Piles and piles of them.† One of his brows lifted. Very slightly. â€Å"We own them now.† The dowager's lips tightened, but she did not acknowledge his interruption. â€Å"We were notified of your father's death in July of 1790.† Jack nodded tightly. He had been told the same. â€Å"One year after that, my husband and my eldest son died of a fever. I did not contract the ailment. My youngest son was no longer living at Belgrave, so he, too, was spared. Charles had not yet married, and we believed John to have died without issue. Thus Reginald became duke.† She paused, but other than that expressed no emotion. â€Å"It was not expected.† Everyone looked at Wyndham. He said nothing, â€Å"I will remain,† Jack said quietly, because he didn't see as he had any other choice. And maybe it wouldn't hurt to learn a thing or two of his father. A man ought to know where he comes from. That was what his uncle had always said. Jack was beginning to wonder if he'd been offering forgiveness – in advance. Just in case he decided one day that he wished to be a Cavendish. Of course, Uncle William hadn't met these Cavendishes. If he had, he might've revised that statement entirely. â€Å"Most judicious of you,† the dowager said, clapping her hands together. â€Å"Now then, we – â€Å" â€Å"But first,† Jack cut in, â€Å"I must return to the inn to collect my belongings.† He glanced around the drawing room, almost laughing at the opulence. â€Å"Meager though they are.† â€Å"Nonsense,† the dowager said briskly. â€Å"Your things will be replaced.† She looked down her nose at his traveling costume. â€Å"With items of far greater quality, I might add.† â€Å"I wasn't asking your permission,† Jack said lightly. He did not like to allow his anger to reveal itself in his voice. It did put a man at a disadvantage. â€Å"Nonethe – â€Å" â€Å"Furthermore,† Jack added, because really, he didn't wish to hear her voice any more than he had to, â€Å"I must make explanations to my associates.† At that he looked over at Wyndham. â€Å"Nothing approaching the truth,† he added dryly, lest the duke assume that he intended to spread rumors throughout the county. â€Å"Don't disappear,† the dowager directed. â€Å"I assure you, you will regret it.† â€Å"There's no worry of that,† Wyndham said blandly. â€Å"Who would disappear with the promise of a dukedom?† Jack's jaw tightened, but he forced himself to let it pass. The afternoon did not need another fistfight. And then – bloody hell – the duke abruptly added, â€Å"I will accompany you.† Oh, good God. That was the last thing he needed. Jack swung around to face him, lifting one dubious brow. â€Å"Need I worry for my safety?† Wyndham stiffened visibly, and Jack, who had been trained to notice even the smallest of details, saw that both of his fists clenched at his sides. So he'd insulted the duke. At this point, and considering the bruises he was likely to find staining his throat, he didn't care. He turned to Miss Eversleigh, offering her his most self-effacing smile. â€Å"I am a threat to his very identity. Surely any reasonable man would question his safety.† â€Å"No, you're wrong!† she cried out. â€Å"You misjudge him. The duke – â€Å" She shot a horrified look at Wyndham, and they all were forced to share her discomfort when she realized what she'd said. But she plowed on, determined girl that she was. â€Å"He is as honorable a man as I have ever met,† she continued, her voice low and fervent. â€Å"You would never come to harm in his company.† Her cheeks had flushed with passion, and Jack was struck by the most acidic thought. Was there something between Miss Eversleigh and the duke? They resided in the same house, or castle, as it were, with only an embittered old lady for company. And while the dowager was anything but senile, Jack could not imagine that there was any lack of opportunity to engage in a dalliance under her nose. He watched Miss Eversleigh closely, his eyes falling to her lips. He'd surprised himself when he kissed her the night before. He hadn't meant to, and he certainly had never done such a thing before whilst attempting to rob a coach. It had seemed the most natural thing in the world – to touch her chin, tilt her face up toward his, and brush his lips against hers. It had been soft, and fleeting, and it had taken him until this moment to realize just how deeply he wanted more. He looked at Wyndham, and his jealousy must have shown on his face because his newly discovered cousin looked coolly amused as he said, â€Å"I assure you, whatever violent urges I possess, I shall not act upon them.† â€Å"That is a terrible thing to say,† Miss Eversleigh responded. â€Å"But honest,† Jack acknowledged with a nod. He did not like this man, this duke who had been brought up to view the world as his private domain. But he appreciated honesty, no matter the source. And as Jack looked him in the eye, there seemed to develop an unspoken agreement. They did not have to be friends. They did not even have to be friendly. But they would be honest. Which suited Jack just fine. By Grace's calculations, the men ought to have returned within ninety minutes, two hours at most. She had not spent much time in a saddle, so she was not the best judge of speed, but she was fairly certain that two men on horseback could reach the posting inn in something less than an hour. Then Mr. Audley would need to retrieve his belongings, which could not take very long, could it? And then – â€Å"Get away from the window,† the dowager snapped. Grace's lips tightened with irritation, but she managed to return her expression to one of placidity before she turned around. â€Å"Make yourself useful,† the dowager said. Grace glanced this way and that, trying to decode the dowager's order. She always had something specific in mind, and Grace hated it when she was forced to guess. â€Å"Would you like me to read to you?† she asked. It was the most pleasant of her duties; they were currently reading Pride and Prejudice, which Grace was enjoying immensely, and the dowager was pretending not to like at all. The dowager grunted. It was a no grunt. Grace was fluent in this method of communication. She took no particular pride in this skill. â€Å"I could pen a letter,† she suggested. â€Å"Weren't you planning to respond to the recent missive from your sister?† â€Å"I can write my own letters,† the dowager said sharply, even though they both knew her spelling was atrocious. Grace always ended up rewriting all of her correspondence before it was posted. Grace took a deep breath and then let it out slowly, the exhale shuddering through her. She did not have the energy to untangle the inner workings of the dowager's mind. Not today. â€Å"I'm hot,† the dowager announced. Grace did not respond. She was hoping none was necessary. And then the dowager picked something up off a nearby table. A fan, Grace realized with dismay, just as the dowager snapped it open. Oh, please, no. Not now. The dowager regarded the fan, a rather festive blue one, with Chinese paintings in black and gold. Then she snapped it back shut, clearly just to make it easier for her to hold it before her like a baton. â€Å"You may make me more comfortable,† she said. Grace paused. It was only for a moment, probably not even a full second, but it was her only means of rebellion. She could not say no, and she could not even allow her distaste to show in her expression. But she could pause. She could hold her body still for just enough time to make the dowager wonder. And then, of course, she stepped forward. â€Å"I find the air quite pleasant,† she said once she had assumed her position at the dowager's side. â€Å"That is because you are pushing it about with the fan.† Grace looked down at her employer's pinched face. Some of the lines were due to age, but not the ones near her mouth, pulling her lips into a perpetual frown. What had happened to this woman to make her so bitter? Had it been the deaths of her children? The loss of her youth? Or had she simply been born with a sour disposition? â€Å"What do you think of my new grandson?† the dowager asked abruptly. Grace froze, then quickly regained her composure and resumed fanning. â€Å"I do not know him well enough to form an opinion,† she answered carefully. The dowager continued to look straight ahead as she answered, â€Å"Nonsense. All of the best opinions are formed in an instant. You know that very well. ‘Else you'd be married to that repulsive little cousin of yours, wouldn't you?† Grace thought of Miles, ensconced in her old home. She had to admit, every now and then the dowager got things exactly right. â€Å"Surely you have something to say, Miss Eversleigh.† The fan rose and fell three times before Grace decided upon, â€Å"He seems to have a buoyant sense of humor.† â€Å"Buoyant.† The dowager repeated the word, her voice curious, as if she were testing it out on her tongue. â€Å"An apt adjective. I should not have thought of it, but it is fitting.† It was about as close to a compliment as the dowager ever got. â€Å"He is rather like his father,† the dowager continued. Grace moved the fan from one hand to the other, murmuring, â€Å"Is he?† â€Å"Indeed. Although if his father had been a bit more†¦ buoyant, we'd not be in this mess, would we?† Grace choked on air. â€Å"I'm so sorry, ma'am. I should have chosen my words more carefully.† The dowager did not bother to acknowledge the apology. â€Å"His levity is much like his father. My John was never one to allow a serious moment to pass him by. He had the most cutting wit.† â€Å"I would not say that Mr. Audley is cutting,† Grace said. His humor was far too sly. â€Å"His name is not Mr. Audley, and of course he is,† the dowager said sharply. â€Å"You're too besotted to see it.† â€Å"I am not besotted,† Grace protested. â€Å"Of course you are. Any girl would be. He is most handsome. Pity about the eyes, though.† â€Å"What I am,† Grace said, resisting the urge to point out that there was nothing wrong with green eyes, â€Å"is overset. It has been a most exhausting day. And night,† she added after a thought. The dowager shrugged. â€Å"My son's wit was legendary,† she said, setting the conversation back to where she wished it. â€Å"You wouldn't have thought it cutting, either, but that was simply because he was far too clever. It is a brilliant man who can make insult without the recipient even realizing.† Grace thought that rather sad. â€Å"What is the point, then?† â€Å"The point?† The dowager blinked several times in rapid succession. â€Å"Of what?† â€Å"Of insulting someone.† Grace shifted the fan again, then shook out her free hand; her fingers were cramped from clutching the handle. â€Å"Or I should say,† she amended, since she was quite sure the dowager could find many good reasons to cut someone down, â€Å"of insulting someone with intention of their not noticing it?† The dowager still did not look at her, but Grace could see that she rolled her eyes. â€Å"It is a source of pride, Miss Eversleigh. I wouldn't expect you to understand.† â€Å"No,† Grace said softly. â€Å"I wouldn't.† â€Å"You don't know what it means to excel at something.† The dowager pursed her lips and stretched her neck slightly from side to side. â€Å"You couldn't know.† Which had to be as cutting an insult as any, except that the dowager seemed completely unaware she'd done it. There was irony in there somewhere. There had to be. â€Å"We live in interesting times, Miss Eversleigh,† the dowager commented. Grace nodded silently, turning her head to the side so that the dowager, should she ever choose to turn her head in her direction, would not see the tears in her eyes. Her parents had lacked the funds to travel, but theirs had been wandering hearts, and the Eversleigh home had been filled with maps and books about faraway places. Like it was yesterday, Grace remembered the time they had all been sitting in front of the fire, engrossed in their own reading, and her father looked up from his book and exclaimed, â€Å"Isn't this marvelous? In China, if you wish to insult someone, you say, ‘May you live in interesting times.'† Grace suddenly did not know if the tears in her eyes were of sorrow or mirth. â€Å"That is enough, Miss Eversleigh,† the dowager said suddenly. â€Å"I am quite cooled.† Grace shut the fan, then decided to set it down on the table by the window so she would have a reason to cross the room. Dusk hung only lightly in the air, so it was not difficult to see down the drive. She was not certain why she was so eager to have the two men back – possibly just as proof that they had not killed each other on the trip. Despite defending Thomas's sense of honor, she had not liked the look in his eyes. And she had certainly never known him to attack someone. He'd looked positively feral when he lunged for Mr. Audley. If Mr. Audley had been less of a fighting man himself, she was quite certain Thomas would have done him permanent harm. â€Å"Do you think it will rain, Miss Eversleigh?† Grace turned. â€Å"No.† â€Å"The wind is picking up.† â€Å"Yes.† Grace waited until the dowager turned her attention to a trinket on the table next to her, and then she turned back to the window. Of course the moment she did, she heard – â€Å"I hope it rains.† She held still. And then she turned. â€Å"I beg your pardon?† â€Å"I hope it rains.† The dowager said it again, so very matter-of-fact, as if anyone would wish for precipitation while two gentlemen were out on horseback. â€Å"They will be drenched,† Grace pointed out. â€Å"They will be forced to take each other's measure. Which they will have to do sooner or later. Besides, my John never minded riding in the rain. In fact, he rather enjoyed it.† â€Å"That does not mean that Mr. – â€Å" â€Å"Cavendish,† the dowager inserted. Grace swallowed. It helped her catch her patience. â€Å"Whatever he wishes to be called, I don't think we may assume that he enjoys riding in the rain just because his father did. Most people do not.† The dowager did not seem to wish to consider this. But she acknowledged the statement with, â€Å"I know nothing of the mother, that is true. She could be responsible for any number of adulterations.† â€Å"Would you care for tea, ma'am?† Grace asked. â€Å"I could ring for it.† â€Å"What do we know of her, after all? Almost certainly Irish, which could mean any number of things, all of them dreadful.† â€Å"The wind is picking up,† Grace said. â€Å"I shouldn't want you to get chilled.† â€Å"Did he even tell us her name?† â€Å"I don't believe so.† Grace sighed, because direct questions made it difficult to pretend she wasn't a part of this conversation. â€Å"Dear Lord.† The dowager shuddered, and her eyes took on an expression of utter horror. â€Å"She could be Catholic.† â€Å"I have met several Catholics,† Grace said, now that it was clear that her attempts to divert the subject had failed. â€Å"It was strange,† she murmured. â€Å"None had horns.† â€Å"What did you say?† â€Å"Just that I know very little about the Catholic faith,† Grace said lightly. There was a reason she often directed her comments to a window or wall. The dowager made a noise that Grace could not quite identify. It sounded like a sigh, but it was probably more of a snort, because the next words from her mouth were: â€Å"We shall have to get that taken care of.† She leaned forward, pinching the bridge of her nose with her fingers and looking extremely put out. â€Å"I suppose I shall have to contact the archbishop.† â€Å"Is that a problem?† Grace asked. The dowager's head shook with distaste. â€Å"He is a beady little man who will be lording this over me for years.† Grace leaned forward. Was that movement she saw in the distance? â€Å"Heaven knows what sorts of favors he shall demand,† the dowager muttered. â€Å"I suppose I shall have to let him sleep in the State Bedroom, just so he can say he slept on Queen Elizabeth's sheets.† Grace watched as the two men on horseback came into view. â€Å"They are back,† she said, and not for the first time that evening, wondered just what role she was meant to play in this drama. She was not family; the dowager was certainly correct in that. And despite Grace's relatively lofty position within the household, she was not included in matters pertaining to family or title. She did not expect it, and indeed she did not want it. The dowager was at her worst when matters of dynasty arose, and Thomas was at his worst when he had to deal with the dowager. She should excuse herself. It did not matter that Mr. Audley had insisted upon her presence. Grace knew her position, and she knew her place, and it was not in the middle of a family affair. But every time she told herself it was time to go, that she ought to turn from the window and inform the dowager that she would leave her to talk with her grandsons in private, she could not make herself move. She kept hearing – no, feeling – Mr. Audley's voice. She stays. Did he need her? He might. He knew nothing of the Wyndhams, nothing of their history and the tensions that ran through the house like a vicious, intractable spiderweb. He could not be expected to navigate his new life on his own, at least not right away. Grace shivered, hugging her arms to her chest as she watched the men dismount in the drive. How strange it was to feel needed. Thomas liked to say he needed her, but they both knew that was untrue. He could hire anyone to put up with his grandmother. Thomas needed no one. Nothing. He was marvelously self-contained. Confident and proud, all he really needed was the occasional pinprick to burst the bubble that surrounded him. He knew this, too, which was what saved him from being entirely insufferable. He'd never said as much, but Grace knew it was why they had become friends. She was possibly the only person in Lincolnshire who did not bow and scrape and say only what she thought he wished to hear. But he didn't need her. Grace heard footsteps in the hall and turned, stiffening nervously. She waited for the dowager to order her gone. She even looked at her, raising her brows ever so slightly as if in a dare, but the dowager was staring at the door, determinedly ignoring her. When the men arrived, Thomas walked in first. â€Å"Wyndham,† the dowager said briskly. She never called him anything but his title. He nodded in response. â€Å"I had Mr. Audley's belongings sent up to the blue silk bedroom.† Grace shot a careful look over at the dowager to gauge her reaction. The blue silk bedroom was one of the nicer guest bedchambers, but it was not the largest or most prestigious. It was, however, just down the hall from the dowager. â€Å"Excellent choice,† the dowager replied. â€Å"But I must repeat. Do not refer to him as Mr. Audley in my presence. I don't know these Audleys, and I don't care to know them.† â€Å"I don't know that they would care to know you, either,† commented Mr. Audley, who had entered the room behind Thomas. The dowager lifted a brow, as if to point out her own magnificence. â€Å"Mary Audley is my late mother's sister,† Mr. Audley stated. â€Å"She and her husband, William Audley, took me in at my birth. They raised me as their own and, at my request, gave me their name. I don't care to relinquish it.† He looked coolly at the dowager, as if daring her to comment. She did not, much to Grace's surprise. And then he turned to her, offering her an elegant bow. â€Å"You may refer to me as Mr. Audley if you wish, Miss Eversleigh.† Grace bobbed a curtsy. She was not certain if this was a requirement, since no one had any clue as to his rank, but it seemed only polite. He had bowed, after all. She glanced at the dowager, who was glaring at her, and then at Thomas, who somehow managed to look amused and annoyed at the same time. â€Å"She can't sack you for using his legal name,† Thomas said with his usual hint of impatience. â€Å"And if she does, I shall retire you with a lifelong bequest and have her sent off to some far-flung property.† Mr. Audley looked at Thomas with surprise and approval before turning to Grace and smiling. â€Å"It's tempting,† he murmured. â€Å"How far can she be flung?† â€Å"I am considering adding to our holdings,† Thomas replied. â€Å"The Outer Hebrides are lovely this time of year.† â€Å"You're despicable,† the dowager hissed. â€Å"Why do I keep her on?† Thomas wondered aloud. He walked over to a cabinet and poured himself a drink. â€Å"She is your grandmother,† Grace said, since someone had to be the voice of reason. â€Å"Ah yes, blood.† Thomas sighed. â€Å"I'm told it's thicker than water. Pity.† He looked over at Mr. Audley. â€Å"You'll soon learn.† Grace half expected Mr. Audley to bristle at Thomas's tone of condescension, but his face remained blandly unconcerned. Curious. It seemed the two men had forged some sort of truce. â€Å"And now,† Thomas announced, looking squarely at his grandmother, â€Å"my work here is done. I have returned the prodigal son to your loving bosom, and all is right with the world. Not my world,† he added, â€Å"but someone's world, I'm sure.† â€Å"Not mine,† Mr. Audley said, when no one else seemed inclined to comment. And then he unleashed a smile – slow, lazy, and meant to paint himself as the careless rogue he was. â€Å"In case you were interested.† Thomas looked at him, his nose crinkling in an expression of vague indifference. â€Å"I wasn't.† Grace's head bobbed back to Mr. Audley. He was still smiling. She looked to Thomas, waiting for him to say something more. He dipped his head toward her in wry salute, then tossed back his liquor in one shockingly large swallow. â€Å"I am going out.† â€Å"Where?† demanded the dowager. Thomas paused in the doorway. â€Å"I have not yet decided.† Which meant, Grace was sure, anywhere but here.

Pontiacs Rebellion Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5750 words

Pontiacs Rebellion - Research Paper Example The United States as we know of it today went through many phases of colonization and some brutal wars since; a Spanish voyager who was exploring new trade routes first discovered it. The indigenous people of the American lands had for long shielded their World from the colonizing European Powers. Little is known about the history of North America before. History records that the Native Americans came to the North American region 10,000 years before it became America. They crossed over from Asia by land, which would have been the Bering Straits. They developed into individual nations who are believed to have spoken over 1000 languages. People within a group or nation however spoke the same language. The Native Americans were very spiritual people who did not believe people should rule or take over any land. They believed that all that God or the spirits had bestowed upon them belonged equally to everyone. These beliefs probably were the main influences of John Locke’s politica l theories in the first and second Treatises of Government. The history of the Native Americans is filled with their struggle to hold on to these lands that they believed were given to them by a higher power. These indigenous people spread their roots over many different parts of North America and made use of what the land, water and life provided for them. It is recorded that there were almost 15 to 20 million. Native Americans already living in the land when Columbus sailed to the North American shores in 1492.... By the 19th century there were more Europeans in the America’s who had migrated from their respective countries. The French tried to colonize North America and part of Canadian Quebec but the other European powers proved too much for them and eventually invaded parts of Louisiana and the Appalachian region and shared the Caribbean islands and some of Dominica with the British and the Dutch. Conflict started when the British tried to usurp the island of St Martin and thus started the seven years war between the French an the British between the years 1756 to 1763, which was a war fought between all the major European powers. These wars also resulted in many treaties that changed the face of history. The notable among those is the treaty signed between the French and the British in 1763 called the treaty of Paris. This treaty was signed between the French and British along with the Spanish and in the presence of Portugal. By the signing of this treaty, most of the disputed terri tories were returned back to their original invaders with the British taking over a good part of North America. France lost its control over the Dominic islands and most of the Caribbean islands. The treaty of Paris also coincided with the French-Indian war over possession of French Louisiana. The French and Indian War, also known as the Seven Years War, began in 1754. The cause of the war was a race for possession of the same territory, the trans-Appalachian region. With the signing of the Treaty of Paris, France ceded almost all of its territory in mainland North America, but retained fishing rights off Newfoundland and  Saint Pierre and Miquelon, two small islands where it could dry that fish. In turn, France gained the return of its sugar colony,

Facing the enigma of Californias Water Crisis Essay

Facing the enigma of Californias Water Crisis - Essay Example These include water conservation, recycling and ground water desalination. The San Francisco/Bay Area's agribusinesses, wildlife habitats, and fisheries are gravely endangered by state and federal agencies' plans to increase water diversions from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, rivers, and estuaries. Already, water exports are killing fish indigenous to the area and poisoning water quality in upstream rivers and the delta. Increasingly, these diversions will only add to the problem, while subsidizing corporate produce growers in the San Joaquin Valley and urban sprawl in Southern California. The planned diversion is unnecessary because there are possible solutions through conservation, water recycling, and ground water desalination. The growing demand for water, at a low cost, can be met without further imperiling Northern California's wildlife and water quality. Water use in California is very high due to a combination of factors. One, it being an agricultural state, and the other, is its population rate continues to rise rapidly. Keene's (2003) research finds that, "California's population is projected to increase by 600,000 every year." Water is a precious and limited resource. Yet there are few who are aware of this. We waste our water down the drain all the time. Since it is a public resource, we treat it as our property and not value it as much. California, like many other places, is well known to face problems related to power and oil. Yet what is much less known is the growing water crisis. As California's population keeps growing and new industries emerging, the demand for water and consumption also increases. So diversions were created in "the Bay-Delta Estuary, which includes the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, Suisun Marsh and the embayments upstream of the Golden Gate. The Delta and Suisun Marsh are located where California's two major river systems, the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, converge to flow westward through San Francisco Bay" (State Water Resource Control Board, 1998). California diverts more than half of the water that naturally flows through this ecosystem. The water was drained faster than the rain could refill it. As billions and billions of gallons were diverted, there appeared to be concerns about the quality and shortage of water. This idea of water diversions is not something new. "For 150 years, the Bay-Delta has suffered from human activity. Frequent pumping from the Bay-Delta has made it no longer function adequately as either a water supply or a healthy habitat for fish and other wildlife" (The Bay-Delta, 2004). So what are these diversions According to the hyper dictionary the word diversions have three different meanings. 1. The direction of water in a stream away from its natural course. 2. The draft of water from one channel to another 3. The interception of runoff by something which discharges it through unnatural channels In plain words these water diversions are man-made and unnatural. The Delta is an important part of California. Reviews of research on the Bay-Delta (2004) find, businesses from Sacramento to the Bay Area and all the way down to southern part of California in San Diego--all rely on the Bay-Delta water. Whatever the kind of industry--computer sciences, healthcare or construction--most need large volumes of

E-commerce Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 2

E-commerce - Essay Example (Chaffey, 2004) This internet culture has resulted in the germination of certain expectations amongst customers. Customers’, due to the evolution of internet technology have come to expect online services for purchasing goods and services, connecting with colleagues and even maintain business relationship with vendors, customers, and employees. This new internet culture is global and is even connecting business partners which are situated across the globe (Chaffey and Smith, 2008). This age of information is propelled by the information technology. Information technology refers to all of the computer-based information systems used by an organisation, along with their underlying technologies. These information technologies and systems are slowly but gradually revolutionising the operations of the firms, industries and markets. In order for a business to keep pace with this information age, it needs to understand the transformation process and identify the opportunities which th is process is creating (Darby, Jones, and AL Madani, 2003). Since the emergence of this information age, information technology has become the largest component of capital investment for many firms. In many industries survival and existence without extensive use of information systems has become totally impossible. ... Experts believe that in this information age, there is a growing interdependence between a firm’s ability to use information technology and its ability to implement corporate strategies and achieve corporate goals. Corporate objectives are heavily dependent upon the depth of their systems. In order for a business to increase its market share, become a high quality or low-cost producer, developing new products and increasing employee productivity is now heavily dependent upon the variety and performance capabilities of the information systems of the organisation (Souder and Sherman, 1994). The more the firm understands this relationship the more valuable it will be in its industry. This information age has also created the utility for the information systems to cope with governmental regulations or other environmental changes (Deitel, Deitel, and Steinbuhler, 2001). A substantial and growing body of research is supporting the fact that information technology is playing a vital role in increasing organisational productivity and providing a fertile ground for cultivating an innovative environment. If a firm needs to take advantage of an opportunity in its marketplace, create new product, and come up with new services, than it needs to commit itself to make a substantial investment in information technology (Stair and Reynolds, 2009). Also, if a firm needs to differentiate itself from its competitors’ in the domain of business practices and management than it needs to employ information systems which enable it to indentify these minute opportunities (Fillis, Johannson, and Wagner, 2004). Having realised the importance of

Doing business with north Americans Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Doing business with north Americans - Essay Example As a result, the major economic activities in Northern America can be traced back to the historical origins of most inhabitants of this continent. The North American region, which consists of countries such as United States and Canada, opened doors to civilization through diversity brought by the various cultural groups that immigrated into the area. Since then diversification and economic growth has been evident even in the modern day through institutions and trade agreements such as the North America Free trade agreement. Nevertheless, development in North America is gradually being hampered by disparities between North and South America (Moran et al, 514). With regard to Canada, Prior to the arrival of the Europeans, Native Americans who inhabited the region had thrived through their culture since they owned the land. However, most of them currently live below the poverty level since they have lost most of the property to the late inhabitants and the governments in the region (Moran et al, 520). As a result, the government in Canada has been increasing its efforts compensate the affected Native Americans. Moreover, the Priv ate sector has increased its efforts over the years to enhance business with Native Americans in Canada. This has involved enlightening the Native Americans on modern business practices and while allowing them to hold on to their tradition (Moran et al, 520). On the other hand, another business perspective with regard to North America can be based on the United States. United States is centrally located in North America â€Å"south of Canada and North of Mexico† (Moran et al 526). Unlike Canada, the terrain and climate in United States varies significantly among regions. However, the historical influx of inhabitants in America is similar to that of Canada that in this case contributes to the diversity in

Disappearance of coral reefs due to global climate change Research Paper

Disappearance of coral reefs due to global climate change - Research Paper Example Poor ecological system in oceans and seas has led to lack of food and other resources that enhance survival of sea animals. This is because global climate change has resulted to the destruction of coral reefs in many of the oceans across the world. In addition, according to new government report on global ecosystem, climate change has also led to acidification of ocean waters. This report points out that current adverse climate change has also endangered water species due to the bleaching of coral reefs caused by rise in water temperatures. This is because climate change has led to the depletion of ozone layer leading to higher temperatures across the globe. Disappearance of coral reefs due to global climate change has, therefore, been regarded as one of the major environmental concerns in the 21st century. Sources of disappearance of coral reefs Global warming has higher devastating effects on coral reefs across the world. According to Science Daily that was released in 2010, large parts of coral reefs in various oceans in the world and the marine life supported by them are almost getting wiped away (Markham, 2009). In addition, reports by international team of researchers on marine ecosystem indicates that global warming has also caused rise in water temperatures killing and bleaching some species of coral. ... This layer of gases allows ultra-violet rays of the sun to pass through the earth. However, the layer prevents the same rays from escaping after they are reflected by the earth. This leads to rise in global temperatures which according to scientist, it has currently increased with 1.9 degrees. This has created a devastating long term effect of damaging coral reefs in the oceans. Researchers have indicated that about 7.5 percent of the world’s coral cover has been destroyed by rise in temperature (Howard, 2012). Damage of coral reef has also been affected by ocean acidification that results from global warming. Acidification of ocean is caused by absorption of gases released into the atmosphere from various human activities across the world (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2012). Currently, due to increased industrial revolution, there is higher emission of gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen monoxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere. These gases form acids when m ixed with water and in some situations form acid rain. According to marine experts, oceans are absorbing about a quarter of the total amount of carbon dioxide released in the atmosphere each year. This leads to formation of carbonic acid increasing the acidity of ocean water. High ocean acidity in turn causes bleaching of coral reefs. Adverse mass of coral reefs have currently experienced bleaching. According to 2009 aerial survey, about 60 percent of the total coral have received bleaching from ocean acidification (United States environmental protection agency, 2012). Human effects on disappearance of coral reefs There are various human effects that facilitate disappearance of coral reefs. Air and water pollutions are some of the human effects

Taking the Steps towards Economic Stability Essay

Taking the Steps towards Economic Stability - Essay Example   Every country of whatever government structure has balance deficit that needs to take care of by current government officials as well as incoming officials. However, this subject is not only a concern by those of the government but also those of the citizens of a certain country or place. However, looking at this concern, one must have intelligence and knowledge as there are many terms and conditions apply. Is reducing balance on the payment deficit important? If you are winding around trying to find the perfect answer to this question the main answer is yes. It is at all. Deficits on payment will simply find your status in the global market. Good reputation in the global market is necessary to set up rapport and increase market demand and supply. Study shows that those markets with good reputation have big chances of development. There are lots of consequences brought about reducing balance of payment deficit.   It is important to increase the economic status of a certain coun try to cope with the balance in deficit. A perfect way to increase economic state is by enhancing the foreign exchange capacity of a given country. It is important to have a sense of balance. The two main things that need to balance is the export and import capacity of a country. These two is  in a unified balance. The demand for import is always reciprocal to the export demand. Any disequilibrium among the two will result into chaos.   There are lots of consequences and factors that could greatly affect the payment balance. While most of these factors are greatly controlled there are also factors that have no control over. First and most important factor is the economic situation especially the economic growth of a certain economy. If the economic state is running smoothly surely demand on the common commodities will raise as most  person  have the buying capacity for such commodities. Once the supply for basic commodities as well as complex needs is not enough for the cons umers the perfect remedy is to import goods from other countries. The importing capacity of a certain country is a good sign.   Another important factor is the exchange rate of the monetary fund in the international market. It is important for a certain place to have a great exchange capacity. Once a country has increase exchange rate importing power is highly good. This is a good  sign  of growing economic state. Another most important result  that needs  to mind  about is the  borrowing  of funds. Most of the third world country borrows funds in the international bank to pay their balance on the payment deficit as well as to have budget on other projects of the country. Lending a fund is good but it needs a lot of intelligence in spending capacity to properly budget each funds. Properly spending the funds is necessary to have the power to pay any balance deficit. In reality, balance of payment is not good at all. Hence, borrowing is not good either. It may just inc rease the burden of accumulating these payment deficits. One helpful thing that a country might consider  is to increase its exporting capacity. In this effort, income generating ability of a country will boom and so with the economy. Exporting is also a beneficial way to  provide  adequate livelihood for  people.   If the Income Account shows a negative result, then the

Cleburne v. Cleburne Living Center, Inc Assignment

Cleburne v. Cleburne Living Center, Inc - Assignment Example Jan Hannah had bought a building in July 1980 in the city of Cleburne’s 201 Featherston Street which she planned to lease to the CLC so that they could establish a group home for the mentally retarded. This home was to be operated by the staffs of CLC who were to supervise thirteen mentally disabled men and women. This building had a total of four bedrooms and two bathrooms with an additional bathroom to be added later on. The ground work was as set and worked out only the legal aspect remained. The city of Cleburne informed the CLC that for operation of such a home, a special permit was required in accordance with the city’s zoning regulations. This special permit was necessary for such institutions as hospitals, correctional centers as well as rehabilitation centers. The permit is renewable annually. CLC complied with the request by submitting a permit application for the special use permit for the group home which the city had classified as a home for the feebly minded. Later on the city denied the special use permit to CLC on a three to one vote during a public hearing on the matter. Following the denial of the special permit, the CLC sued the city of Cleburne in a Federal District Court arguing that the zoning ordinance was wrongfully applied against them and that the decision to deny them the permit was an act of discrimination against the mentally handicapped in the society and an outright violation of equal protection rights of CLC and the potential inhabitants of the group home. The court found that were it not for the mental incapacitation of the potential inhabitants of the group home, then the special permit would have been granted, the District court went on to validate the city’s ordinance and decision as constitutionally acceptable. This court also established that were not suspect or quasi-suspect class and it held that the rational test

Understanding the principles and practises of assessment Essay Example for Free

Understanding the principles and practises of assessment Essay 1. Understand the principles and requirements of assessment. 1.1 Explain the functions of assessment in learning and development. An assessment has to be carried out to show that learning is taking place. The initial assessment will show me the learner’s knowledge, skills and capability in the hairdressing industry. The easiest and most effective way to show their understanding is by demonstrating their knowledge and understanding of the criteria that has been given. This can then help me and the learners to see if they have fully understood, and if not is should encourage the learner to ask questions. Sometimes a learner will need guidance to understand what exactly they have to learn, and if they are on track and how they can improve their skills/ techniques. For this to be effective it means that a thorough assessment will need to take place. Formative assessment is where a focus on monitoring the learner’s progress and response to instruction is taken place. This will allow me to observe the learners progress and then give feedback to the learner starting with positive first leading into the more negative feedback where I can then give information derived from the assessment to help improve the next time. Feedback is key and can be given in writing or oral. Learners can also do self assessments to reflect and monitor their progress. summative assessment take place at the end of an unit, this will help me find the right method for obtaining information about what has been learnt, and provides me with information about a students achievement of specific units. This can be done by getting the learner to create a project on a specified aspect of hairdressing e.g. colouring hair. This will then give me an understanding of the individual learner’s performance and understanding of the criteria that needs to be covered. Summative assessment is more formal and can be done through assessments, exams, professional discussion to confirm learn er’s achievement. 1.2 define the key concepts and principles of assessment Assessment is carried out to evaluate that learning has taken place. Assessment used as a progress of making judgements are important, as it helps me to measure where the learner is at, and also measures the attainment of knowledge and skills in the unit that is being assessed. It also helps me to ensure that learners are learning the right criteria.  Learners should know why they are being assessed and what they have to do to meet the assessment criteria. I should not assess the learner unless they are ready to be assessed. The validity of the learners work means that the work that is being produced is relevant to what is being assessed, and it meets the right criteria for the certain level. To ensure reliability of the learner, the work must remain consistent across all learners over a period of time. Evidence is key as it can determine the decision that is being made by me. Ensuring that the learner is doing the work and this it is kept up to date. The anticipated outcome of ass essment is that the learner will complete assessments of city and guild standards within the time frame given, with no assistance and show through answering questions so that they have full understanding of the subject. Evidence should be authentic, the only way I can gather authentic evidence is by observing, so I can witness the learner working. This work has to be produced solely by the learner. Sufficient work is important to ensure the work that is being assessed covers the requirements at that time. Benchmarking can help inform target setting for learners. If targets are not met the learners work will need evaluating so improvements can be implemented. Learners work needs to be current to ensure the learners are producing work that is relevant to the time of assessment. Work can be evaluated to inform current and future practise. Assessment has to remain fair, consistent and valid, to ensure all learners have equal and fair chance of receiving fair assessment. By following the awarding bodys criteria, when all judgements are made about a learner’s performance, it will ensure all assessment is marked to the same criteria to be fair with learners. My own interpretation and understanding of assessment requirements is important. It includes the transparency of making sure everyone who is involved in the assessment process clearly understands what is expected, and can see there is nothing untoward taking place. It is key that I am honest and open with the learners so they do not feel that they have achieved more than they have whilst under assessments. 1.3 explain the responsibilities of the assessor. My main role as an assessor will be to plan and carry out assessment according to the requirements of the qualification and specification of city and guilds. One of my responsibilities is to decide if an assignment having  been completed by the learner has reached the required standard, if it falls short of this then it is my responsibility to assist the learner in the understanding of the subject. To safeguard against standards failing my evaluation is then checked by and I.V, assessing both learner and myself. We both must maintain and improve the assessment process as they will then be assessed by an E.V. During planning my assessments for the learner it needs to be consistent and fair. I need to take into account individual needs of learners. An assessment could be an observation, test or questioning and when devising my own assessment I need to make sure it is at a level of achievements of that learner. There should always be a reason for my assessment, so then I can find out if the learner is ready to progress further. It is important I communicate with the learners so I can inspire and motivate them. I also need to provide feedback to the learners so that they can improve where needed. I should always remain professional and know my boundaries, not getting too friendly. Also I should be fair and ethical towards the learners with no favouritism. While carrying out assessments I need to make a right decision and be fair towards the learners.

Famous Thinkers Essay Example for Free

Famous Thinkers Essay There are many famous thinkers that have lived on this earth who have made significant changes to everyones lives. A couple famous thinkers stand out amongst them all. These two are Mr. Bill Gates and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Their contributions society have been great and were based off of their personal, social and political environments. They had both sought to solve problems or issues that people faced and they were able to provide solutions and implement them. The solutions they provided all followed a creative process, which will be compared to each other, and their ideas will be critiqued to discuss what they could have done differently. Contributions to Society Mr. Bill Gates and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. have both contributed to society in different ways. Bill Gates had gained immense wealth through the creation and sales of Microsoft Windows, and he is using this wealth for philanthropic reasons. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation contributes to societies throughout the world. Their contributions range from providing vaccines in Africa, to financial services for the poor in the United States. These contributions affect society as they provide better health by helping prevent illness and helping better the lives of those less fortunate. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lead the change in gaining equal civil rights for African Americans by using nonviolent civil disobedience. The Environment Mr Bill Gates and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lived in different environments which attributed to their creativity in solving problems or issues. Bill Gates was raised in a financially responsible family, and attended a preparatory school which allowed him to focus on computer programming. This environment allowed Bill Gates to excel in what he loved and create the Microsoft organization. Bill Gates gained enormous wealth through his creation of Microsoft, which he now uses for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lived in a rough environment. He grew up where African Americans where considered a lesser person and were segregated because of their race. This eventually lead Martin Luther King Jr. to take lead in the civil rights movement, which brought him to direct the march on Washington, D.C and give his I Have a Dream speech. Solving Problems or Issues Mr. Bill Gates and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. both address issues in society. Bill Gates addresses issues across the world, where Martin Luther King Jr. addresses civil rights issues in the United States. Bill Gates, through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, currently aids in numerous issues throughout the world. Some of the more widely known issues are support for better education in the United States, and contributions to providing vaccinations in Africa. The issues that Bill Gates seeks to solve is poor education in the United States and to prevent disease and death in developing countries. Martin Luther King Jr. had addressed the civil rights issues to help gain equal rights for African Americans in the United States by use of nonviolent civil disobedience. Solutions The Bill and Melinda Gates foundation works through funding other non-profit organizations working towards the common goal of helping impoverished people, providing health services in developing countries, and helping better the education system in the United States. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a solution to bring the people together and spread the word of equal civil rights through speech, and motivation. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at several different venues through the United States prior to the I Have a Dream speech in Washington, D.C. At the I Have a Dream speech, over 250,000 people attended and marched, showing non-violent civil disobedience. (The Nobel Foundation, 1964). Comparing the Creative Processes Bill Gates creative process was very simple in the fact that he has money, and wants to do good with it. His process was to create the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, find non-profit organizations that share a common goal, support them financially and repeat the process. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a more complex creative process, where he had to bring the African American people together and get the leaders of the United States to listen. Martin Luther King Jr. began by traveling the United States, speaking where civil rights of African Americans where being denied. Through his speeches and travel, he brought together the African American people and accomplished the goal of gaining equal civil rights (The Nobel Foundation, 1964). Critique of Ideas The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation can take an active role in their philanthropic ideals. The foundation currently supports other non-profit organizations that work toward the foundations goals. If Bill Gates could turn the foundation around and actively work towards their goals by doing something themselves, they may achieve greater success as other organization seeking support can follow their lead. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. should not have done anything different. His motives of showing the world that the African American people are humans too, and deserve equal civil rights was conducted in a non-violent manner and accomplished his goal to gain equal civil rights. Conclusion Mr. Bill Gates and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. have provided great contributions to society across the world and in the United States. Their environments helped bring about this desire to contribute as they had both sought to solve problems or issues faced by society. The solutions they provided all followed a creative process, which Bill Gates could have done a better job at and Martin Luther King Jr. couldnt have done better. References Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.gatesfoundation.org/ King, M. L. (2003). I HAVE A DREAM. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/docview/394023549?accountid=35812. Ruggiero, V. R. (2009). The art of thinking: A guide to critical and creative thought (9th ed.). New York, NY: Pearson Longman. The Nobel Foundation. (1964). Martin Luther King Jr. Biographical. Retrieved from http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1964/king-bio.html

The Focus Of The Foreign Affairs Politics Essay

The Focus Of The Foreign Affairs Politics Essay The Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Wisma Putra as it is commonly known has been mandated to pursue the nations foreign policy in accordance with the Federal Constitution of Malaysia with the objective of protecting and promoting the nations interest at the international level. Malaysias foreign policy is premised on establishing close and friendly relations with countries in the community of nations.   It will continue to respect the internal affairs of other nations and advocate a policy of non-interference recognizing the sovereignty of nations. Since Malaysias independence in 1957 till today, the vision of our foreign policy remains consistent that is to safeguard Malaysias national interests as well as contribute towards a just and equitable community of nations.   This is achieved through upholding the countrys sovereignty and promoting universal peace; fostering friendly relations with foreign countries and protecting Malaysias interests in the regional and international arena.   In other words, Malaysia will continue to consolidate its relations with other countries and international organisations, both at the regional and international level. In line with the objectives of promoting and protecting Malaysian national interest abroad, the Ministry has established a total of 105 missions in 83 countries and appointed 53 Honorary Consuls who provide support and assistance in promoting Malaysias interest abroad. Since the independence of Malaya in 1957, the nations foreign policy has gone through several phases of significant transition with different emphases under five previous premierships.   The policy has been largely determined by the established national characteristics and succession of political leadership as well as by the dynamic regional and international environment. Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia held a markedly anti-Communist and pro-Western posture as the era saw the country threatened by the Communist insurgency.   The foreign policy during Tunkus time had to take into consideration the bipolar power struggle between opposing ideas of democracy and communism. Under the stewardship of Malaysias second premier Tun Abdul Razak, Malaysias foreign policy began to shift towards non-alignment and internationalism with Malaysia joining the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) and Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). A period of consolidation ensued under Tun Hussein Onn with ASEAN becoming the cornerstone of Malaysias foreign policy following the collapse of Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) in 1975, the withdrawal of the US military presence from Southeast Asia and the invasion of Kampuchea (now Cambodia) by Vietnam. During the premiership of Tun Dr. Mahathir in 1981, Malaysia began opening its doors to foster relations with more nations and became a symbol of a rising developing country.   Under Tun Mahathirs tenure, the nations foreign policy began adopting a much greater economic orientation in the countrys external relations while championing the rights, interests and aspirations of developing countries.   This approach led to the advocacy of the South-South Cooperation, a more proactive role in the G-77, the establishment of the G-15 and saw the Look East Policy being instituted.   This shift to the East greatly influenced Malaysias economic development.   Malaysia became the voice of the developing world and was a role model for many developing countries as it become well known for its active stance at the UN and other international conferences.   Malaysias participation in peacekeeping missions under the UN is also a testimony of the nations seriousness in instilling the will of the international community.   Since 1960, Malaysia has committed troops to Republic of Congo, Bosnia Herzegovina, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Namibia, Western Sahara, Iraq, Timor Leste and Lebanon. The fifth Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi continued to ensure that Malaysia was active in the international arena.   During his tenure, Malaysia played an instrumental role in the formulation and adoption of the ASEAN Charter which has been ratified by all ASEAN member states and subsequently entered into force on 15th December 2008.  During this period, Malaysia was also active in expanding the focus of OIC from being an organisation focused solely on political issues into one which focuses on the socio-economic development of Islamic countries.   The Islam Hadhari concept which promotes a form of civilisational Islam was also introduced by Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi and was accepted and recognised by the OIC member states at the 3rd Special Summit of OIC at Makkah in December 2005. Under the leadership of Prime Minister YAB Dato Sri Najib Tun Razak, Malaysia will continue to project a forward-looking and pragmatic foreign policy whilst continuing to facilitate trade, attract foreign investment as well as project Malaysia as a stable and peaceful country. Upon taking office in April 2009, the Prime Minister also stressed that Malaysias foreign policy under his administration would be shaped significantly by the 1Malaysia: People First, Performance Now concept. Among the key elements of the 1Malaysia concept is in realising the strength of Malaysia lies in its diversity.   This concept bodes well with the main vision of Malaysias Foreign Policy that is to protect and promote interests abroad and at the same time responsibly and effectively contribute towards the building of a fair and just world.   Dato Sri Najib believes that the interconnectedness of nations in the world means that Malaysia would benefit in applying 1Malaysia in its efforts in diplomacy and foreign relations. Synonymous with the 1Malaysia concept, Malaysia will continue to maintain close relations with all countries in the world and will continue to work with like-minded nations in pursuing national interest. YAB PM also introduced the Government Transformation Programme (GTP) that identified Key Results Area (KRAs) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of the Ministry as a promise of commitment by the Government to the rakyat.   In line with this, the Ministry has identified 14 Key Performance Indicators to measure the success of the Ministry. The KRAs of the Ministry are as follows: a.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Protection and promotion of Malaysias interests bilaterally, regionally and internationally through proactive diplomacy; b.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Realisation of an ASEAN Community by 2015 via the ASEAN Political Security Community Blueprint, ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint and ASEAN Social Cultural Blueprint; c.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Enhancing Malaysias standing in the international community particularly in the framework of 1Malaysia in an ever changing geopolitical scenario; and d.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Provision of prompt and effective services locally and abroad. Malaysia has also maintained excellent relations with other countries, bilaterally and multilaterally through existing regional and international mechanisms of ASEAN, UN and other organisations which we are a member of. Malaysias foreign policy is structured upon a framework of bilateralism, regionalism and multilateralism where its outreach is likening to a pattern of concentric circles.   ASEAN forms the core priority of Malaysias current foreign policy, in consideration of our neighbours as our closest allies.   Looking further afield, as a country with a strong Muslim majority, Malaysia also gives importance to the solidarity of the Ummah and the spirit of cooperation among the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC).   Malaysias status as a developing nation makes it imperative for the country to engage actively in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the Commonwealth, Group of Seventy Seven (G77), Developing Eight (D8), Asia Middle East Dialogue (AMED), Far East Asia Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC), Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC), Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM) and Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).   No less important is the countrys continued active participation in the Commonwealth, the United Nations and other international organisations.   Through these organisations, Malaysia has sought to promote the South-South Cooperation among the developing countries and the Muslim world.   Malaysia also advocates the Prosper thy neighbour policy to enhance economic relations and cooperation with its neighbouring countries through Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMTGT) and other entities. Malaysia will continue to play a significant role in the various multilateral issues that affect our interests.   These issues include disarmament, counter terrorism, trafficking in persons, climate change and environmental issues.  Ã‚   As a member of the UN, Malaysia is a firm believer of international peace and security and an upholder of international law.   Malaysias election as the President of United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for 2010 and the Chairmanship of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) were a further testimony of Malaysias positive international image. Malaysia will also continue to engage with like-minded nations, both in the region and beyond in ensuring its sovereignty and economic well being are preserved and protected.   Malaysia will continue with the principles of engagement and cooperation rather than isolationism and unilateral action.  Trade and investment opportunities will continue to be explored with our traditional trading partners and at the same time to develop strategic partnerships for trade and investment with countries in the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and other parts of Asia. In the decade leading up to 2020, Malaysia would have to deal with great changes in the global environment whilst improving and upgrading the countrys domestic conditions.   In recognising this challenge, it is vital that Malaysias foreign policy continues to focus on protecting national interests while responsibly and effectively contributing towards the building of a fair and just world. The fundamental principles of sovereign equality, mutual respect for territorial integrity, peaceful settlement of disputes as well as mutual benefit in relations are the guiding principles that would continue to guide Malaysias relations with other countries.   Ã‚  These principles have stood the test of time. Indeed, our steadfast adherence to these principles, supported by a consistent foreign policy, has established for Malaysia a credible image in the eyes of the international community. OBJECTIVE   Implementing foreign policy is a complex and challenging task. With the dynamic environment of world politics, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs needs to be constantly aware of changes and be able to effectively respond to ensure that Malaysias sovereignty and national interests are adequately protected and Malaysias views and positions are duly articulated in the international arena. The Ministry will coordinate and work closely with relevant Ministries and Agencies to establish workable terms of reference in implementing Malaysias national interests and to coordinate marketing and branding strategies for Malaysia abroad. In the formulation of foreign policy, every country has its own objective. In the case of Malaysia, it is as simple as the pursuit of Malaysias national interest at the international level. The Malaysian government will strive to ensure that Malaysia continues to play an active role in international relations for the benefit of the country. Principal emphasis in the pursuit of Malaysias foreign policy objectives include: Maintaining peaceful relations with all countries regardless of its ideology and political system; Adopting an independent, non-aligned, and principled stance in regional and international diplomatic affairs; Forging close relations and economic partnerships with all nations, particularly with ASEAN and other regional friends; Promoting peace and stability in the region through capacity building and conflict resolution measures; Playing an influential leadership role as Chair of the ASEAN, Non-aligned Movement (NAM) and Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) (As we did in the last few years); Participating actively and meaningfully in the United Nations, especially in the efforts to end injustice and oppression, and to uphold international law; and Projecting Malaysia as a leading example of a tolerant and progressive Islamic nation. FORMULATION OF FOREIGN POLICY    Malaysias foreign policy is basically an extension of Malaysias domestic policy. It is designed to defend and promote the countrys national, political, security, economic and other vital interests. It is geared towards promoting a peaceful regional and international environment, which would give Malaysia space to achieve all its national objectives without disruption from external threats.    Despite the diversity of views regarding the perception and explanation of foreign policy, no foreign policy can be formulated in a vacuum. It must serve to function in a dynamic environment. Malaysias foreign policy is no exception. Various geographical, historical, social and political determinants contributed to shaping the nature of Malaysias foreign policy and the conduct of the countrys international relations.    Our foreign policy seeks to promote mutual tolerance and cooperation amongst all countries that make up the fabric of international community. To this, Malaysia pursues an independent, principled and pragmatic foreign policy which rests on the values of peace, humanity, justice, and equality. Malaysias foreign policy is also premised on the principles of respect for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in the affairs of other nations, peaceful settlement of disputes, peaceful co-existence and mutual benefit in relations. Due to globalization and the rise of powerful non-state actors, such as Multinational Corporations (MNCs), non-governmental organizations, and a variety of transnational groups, it is imperative for small nation states to cooperate even more closely. To this, Malaysia maintains friendly diplomatic, and trade relations with many countries throughout the world.    As a trading nation, we advocate a multilateral rule-based global trading system which would promote and safeguard the interests of all countries, whether developed or developing, in a fair and equitable manner. In this respect, Malaysia has long advocated the economic principle of prosper-thy-neighbor and not beggar-thy-neighbor. We believe that the global economic infrastructure should be that prosperity will beget prosperity. CRITERIA AND CHARACTERISTICS OF MALAYSIAS FOREIGN POLICY   Malaysias foreign policy is guided by three criteria: a) First, it must be a CREDIBLE policy: Exudes trust and confidence from other nations. In this regard, it has to be based on certain  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   internationally cherished principles.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Serves the countrys best interest and remain a responsible member of the international community.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   b) Second, it must be an ENLIGHTENED policy: Takes care of the interest of its citizens above all else.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Brings international recognition and admiration for Malaysia and   allows Malaysians to be good citizens of the     Ã‚  Ã‚   world. c) Third, it must be a CONSISTENT AND COHERENT policy:   Makes Malaysia an acceptable and reliable partner in interstate affairs. Succeeds in making Malaysia the preferred brand name in international relations. EVOLUTION OF MALAYSIAS FOREIGN POLICY    Foreign policy is not static. Its formulation is essentially a dynamic process. Hence, over the years, our foreign policy has evolved, taking account of the change in leadership as well as developments in the ever-changing global political and economic landscapes. Moreover, the advent of globalization and the transformation of interstate relations brought about by new and rapid changes in information technologies necessarily means that our foreign policy has to be adjusted and fine tuned to meet new challenges in a globalised world. The style and approaches in enunciating Malaysias foreign policy may differ in keeping with the personality of each past and present prime minister of Malaysia. A critical examination of Malaysias foreign policy since 1957 would show its steady evolution characterized by notable changes in emphasis, which took place with the change in Malaysias political stewardship. Briefly;   a) In the period 1957-1969, our country has just gained its independence. During this post independence period, under our first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, our foreign policy was geared towards the survival of our newly independent nation. Our foreign policy then was markedly anti-Communist and pro-western in posture with close links to the Commonwealth. We were also a strong opponent of apartheid. Our posture towards regional cooperation also began to take root with the birth of ASA (1960), MAPHILINDO (1963) and ASEAN (1967). b) In the period 1970 -1976, under Tun Abdul Razak, as a member of the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), Malaysia began to identify itself as a Muslim nation. The search for new friends substantially increased the importance of NAM to Malaysia. We became markedly non-aligned and postured towards neutrality, peaceful co-existence and independence. We also began to distance ourselves from major powers, put strong emphasis on regionalism and developed contacts and diplomatic relations with communist countries. Investments from other than British sources began to be also welcomed.   c) A period of consolidation ensued under Tun Hussein Onn (1976-1981) with ASEAN becoming the cornerstone of Malaysias foreign policy following the collapse of Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) in 1975, the withdrawal of the US military presence from Southeast Asia and the invasion of Kampuchea (now Cambodia) by Vietnam. The First ASEAN Summit was held and Malaysia signed the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Bali in 1976. Further emphasis on independence, non-alignment and equidistance from the major powers was also made. d) A more dramatic shift in emphasis occurred when Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohammad took over as the fourth Prime Minister in 1981. Malaysias foreign policy stance began to take a much greater economic orientation than ever before, coupled with a strong and nationalistic defence of the rights, interests and aspirations of developing countries and the advocacy of south-south co-operation. Tun Dr. Mahathirs premiership saw the pursuit of numerous new initiatives such as: Antarctica as the Common Heritage of Mankind. The Look East Policy (LEP). Championing of the cause of developing countries on major social issues like environment, human rights and democracy. With the advent of globalization, Malaysians identified both the beneficial and adverse impact of globalization to the developing countries. Pro-active and passionate approach on Apartheid and Palestinian issues. Islamic Unity Chairmanship and hosting of the 10th OIC Summit, hosting of 1st Expo OIC, formation of D-8. International peace and security Malaysias membership in UNSC, peacekeeping role in a number of countries such as Cambodia, Somalia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Namibia and East Timor. Malaysia also actively championed against selectivity, double standards and pre-emptive action outside the ambit of the UN. Terrorism Malaysia forged strong regional and international cooperation in combating terrorism, strongly advocated against profiling by religion or ethnicity, proposed multifaceted approach in combating terrorism including identifying and eliminating the root causes, hosted OIC Foreign Ministers Meeting on Terrorism in 2002, established SEARCCT to primarily focus on training and capacity building. Opening of New Frontiers: Active bilateral engagements with African, Latin American and Eastern Europe countries, particularly in trade, investment and transfer technology in the spirit of South-South Cooperation. Includes opening of Diplomatic Missions and extension of Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program (MTCP) in these countries. Economic Orientation: East Asia Economic Cooperation (from EAEG to EAEC to ASEAN +3). Regional Development Cooperation Growth Triangle concept such as IMTGT, IMSGT, BIMP-EAGA. Group of 15 (G15) first advocated by Malaysia. Economic diplomacy reverse investments prosper thy neighbors, South-South cooperation, MIGHT, Langkawi International Dialogue (LID), South Africa International Dialogue (SAID). e) In the period 2003   and onwards, under the leadership of Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, foreign policy initiatives were further refined and fine- tuned to project: Pragmatic response in meeting the current geopolitical and economic challenges. More sophisticated articulation of Malaysias views. Substance as a dynamic extension to existing policies. Influential leadership role as Chair of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) and ASEAN; and Malaysia as a leading example of a tolerant and progressive Islamic Nation Islam Hadhari The evolution of the countrys foreign policy under successive prime ministers reflects a pragmatic response to the geopolitical and economic changes of their times. To be continually relevant to the countrys needs, foreign policy cannot remain static. But whilst changes in emphasis have become a general feature of Malaysian foreign policy, continuity has also been evident. Both the change and continuity mark a higher level of confidence and maturing of the country in the conduct of its international affairs. Indeed, in many ways Malaysias leadership role has been recognized on several issues of deep interest to the developing world.    As a trading nation, we are very much dependent on a peaceful international environment for our well being. Naturally, our foreign policy has to be oriented to allow for a greater focus on economic diplomacy. In the past, when we were producing mainly raw materials for the world, Malaysia had to compete with only a handful of countries. But now, when we have become an industrialized trading nation, we have no choice but to work harder, to compete better and to find new markets for our goods and services. We must find better ways to do business with the outside world. We need to find niches in which we have a competitive edge.    Towards this end, Malaysia has implemented a number of policies that have a strong foreign policy component that will contribute to the creation of a strong, dynamic and resilient economy. These policies include amongst others: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢LookEastPolicy à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ReverseInvestment-ProsperThyNeighbour à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢MalaysiaIncorporated à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢South-SouthCooperation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢MalaysianTechnicalCooperationProgramme(MTCP) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Langkawi International Dialogue CONLUSION   One significant phenomenon that will impact strongly on Malaysias foreign policy as we move forward is globalization. Our greatest challenge would be to extract the best from the process of globalization and to give our best to the system. And in return to contribute towards making the world a much more peaceful and equitable place to live in, to provide leadership within our region and to demonstrate exemplary and responsible membership of the international community. On the political front, we see the end of the cold war. Yet the world today is no safer than we had been led to believe. The so-called friendly global village has not come about. Old conflicts either refuse to die or simply have a way of coming out of their graves to haunt us. In the meantime, new conflicts, at times much bloodier and brutal than the old ones, continue to emerge and rage or remain unresolved. Added to this, two other issues of great concern also remain, namely terrorism which continue to threaten Terrorism which continue to threaten the lives and property of innocent victims; and The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction which brings fourth the prospect of nuclear, chemical, and biological warfare. It is important; therefore, that our foreign policy be geared towards ensuring that more and more nations sign and ratify the relevant international conventions such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and the Convention on Land Mines (CLM). The economic dimension of globalization has been even more disappointing. The financial crisis that descended upon East Asia in 1997 brought about not only social misery and economic disaster but political instability as well. Massive Unemployment, negative growth, stock market crashes and severe currency devaluation have pulled down millions of people below the poverty lines. And now, we are anxiously watching the effects of the possible economic meltdown following the global financial crisis. The severity of the situation calls for the whole business of economic globalization and financial and trade liberalization to be seriously addressed. This is another biggest foreign policy challenge for Malaysia. Malaysia will continue to press for the reforming the international financial architecture that is so prone to speculative manipulations and frequently excessive fluctuation. Malaysias activism at the international front has of course attracted attention and reaction from various quarters. Until recently, Malaysia had been the target for criticism for being too vocal. But this is something that we need to take in our own stride if Malaysia is to be proactive at the global level. Our foreign policy principles have stood the test of time. Indeed, our steadfast adherence to these principles, supported by a consistent foreign policy, has established for Malaysia certain credibility in the eyes of the international community. Malaysias initiatives at various regional and international fora have put the country on the world map. Increased economic prosperity and political stability has in fact enabled Malaysia to carve its own niche in the international scene. Making its presence felt has allowed Malaysia to exercise some influence in setting the international agenda. Being less dependent on foreign aid and assistance, Malaysia has been able to speak up on issues that other developing countries feel constrained to voice for fear of retribution by the major, particularly western, powers. The years ahead therefore would see our foreign policy specially oriented towards not only ensuring Malaysias domestic success but also internationally, as a geopolitical and economic player at the global level.

The Confusion Behind Computer Advertisements :: Media

The Confusion Behind Computer Advertisements Advertising is the key ingredient to a company’s success, so it’s pretty common for a company to go to extreme levels to sell their products. â€Å"There are six basic consumer behavior decisions when it comes to creating a desire for a brand name or product. 1. Problem Recognition: The consumer decides that he or she needs something. 2. Search: The consumer gathers information about ways to satisfy this need. 3. Evaluation of Alternatives: He or she weighs the plusses and minuses of the alternatives. 4. Decision: The consumer decides what to buy. 5. Purchase: He or she buys it. 6. Post purchase Evaluation: The consumer decides whether he or she bought the right thing. In realty, human beings are resourceful enough to find what they need without ads† (Kaufman, 2004). However, ads do as much damage as it does good. Pushing more and more ads down consumers’ throat is not going to necessarily make them want to buy that product; Internet pop-up ads are a prime example. The abundance of ads is not the only problem. Many ads can be misleading in what they are really trying to sell you; Dell is a good example of misleading ads. Travis a dell computer customer writes in an Internet complaint, â€Å"we ordered a dimension 8200 series but we were late in receiving the camera kit. When we did receive the camera kit it wasn’t the right one for that computer, but Dell still wouldn’t take it back because it was already past the 30-day warranty† (Travis of Kalispell, MT, 2004). Best Buy is also guilty of using misleading advertisement, which leads to even more serious accusations. Katherine of Hartsdale (2004), NY wri tes, â€Å"for Christmas my mom bought me a Playstation 2 and several games. One of the games wouldn’t work so I tried taking it back to Best Buy.

Essay --

Dreams Occur Only During REM Sleep Many individuals believe that you can only experiences dreams during the REM stage of sleep. The REM stage is one of five stages that people pass through when they go to sleep ever night. REM is an acronym that stands for rapid eye movement. The REM stage was discovered by the two scientists, Kleitman and Aserinsky (Suzuki et al., 2004). During their research they observed that when their patients were woken up during the REM phase, they were capable of recalling their dreams most vividly. Since then the REM has always been associated with dreaming. During REM sleep, dreams tend to be longer, more bizarre, and more complex. However, this is not the only stage of sleep in which people dream. In fact there are multiple stages of sleep in which a person can dream (Behn, Ananthasubramaniam, & Booth, 2013). In order to better understand how this myth originated, the original research by Kleitman and Aserinsky must be looked at in further detail. After discovering the human rapid eye movement sleep stage (REM), they documented that dreams were obtained most frequently when the patients were woken up from the REM sleep (Suzuki et al., 2004). Many scientists began conducting studies on REM sleep and dreams. They found a strong connection between an electrophysiologic phenomena and participants experience during REM sleep. Electrophysiologic phenomena is defined as, â€Å"the electrical properties, characteristics of living organisms, and the processes of organisms or their parts that are involved in generating and responding to electrical charges† (Brown, 2010). This means that during REM sleep, our brains is experiencing high activity. This explains why the REM stage is associated with longer, more complex... ...g the REM stage. Non-REM dreams are similar to thinking about something briefly during the day, whereas REM dreams are more comparable to thinking intensely about something. The duration in which you are in the stages differ as well. The REM stage last of about two hours a night. Non-REM last for about four to six hours. The intense dreams experienced during the REM sleep is a result of heightened brain activity (Hartman & Zimberoff, 2012). The quality of sleep we get during the REM stage and non-REM stage differ greatly. Therefore, it seems only logical that the way we dream would differ as well. We dream more intensely and vividly during REM sleep but that doesn’t mean that we don’t dream in non-REM sleep. It just simply means that we dream differently. Even if we dream in a less intense way during Non-REM sleep, we are still capable of dreaming during this stage

The Cask of Amontillado Essay -- Literary Analysis, Allan Poes

In Edgar Allan Poe’s â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado,† the main character, Montresor, leads his enemy, Fortunato, into his catacombs, and there buries him alive by bricking him up in a niche in the wall; Poe gives no actual reason for this except to say that Montresor has been â€Å"insulted† in some way. In his Science Fiction work â€Å"Usher II,† Ray Bradbury adopts many of Poe’s works in creating his story—including pieces from â€Å"TCoA.† What separates Bradbury’s work from other authors who borrow works and re-imagine them (Gregory Maguire’s Wicked, Geraldine Brooks’s March, and Peter Carrey’s Jack Maggs, for instance), is that â€Å"Usher II,† in its imaginative way, is trying to be one with its predecessor. Bradbury seeks to retain Poe’s love of the double and the secretive (Gothic mentalities where the reader is meant to be a bit uncertain about what they’re reading and what†™s going on) while adding, most notably regarding â€Å"TCoA,† the things Poe never had much care for: a beginning, an end, and reason—thus making â€Å"Usher II† not only an homage to Poe’s work, but a companion piece whose beating heart lies within the original work. Poe, according to Professor Epstein of the Queens College English Department, wrote for the climax, got you there, and then left; examples of this can be found in â€Å"The Black Cat† and â€Å"The Tell-Tale Heart,† where Poe cuts out right before the cops are about to slap the chains on the narrators, and, as will be illustrated below, in â€Å"TCoA.† In â€Å"The Philosophy of Composition,† Poe writes, regarding the structure of his stories, â€Å"It is only with the denouement [the final revelation showing the outcome, or untying, of the plot] constantly in view that we can give a plot its indispensable air of consequence, or causation, by ma... ...has taken Poe’s â€Å"TCoA† whole, just as it is, and made it his own by tinkering at the edges, giving it a beginning, and, because the main character has knowable reasons for doing what he’s doing, a proper conclusion that doesn’t leave the reader feeling as if they’ve been pushed to the top of a mountain and then left there to get down themselves. In â€Å"Usher II,† Bradbury takes Poe’s masked figures and lifts them for the reader (if not for the characters, who need to die because they aren’t familiar with Poe). Bradbury hasn’t stolen Poe’s work, nor has he altered its effect; he has, instead, added his own sly creativity to a master storyteller’s work by expounding upon what was already there. I think that even Poe, who so valued originality, would have been amused by Bradbury’s retelling of his work. (Either that, or lead him down into some dark and dusty catacombs.)

Philippines is a developing country Essay

  It can be seen in the increase of establishments, the growing number of tourists and the attraction of foreign investors and businessmen. One contributor for the country’s development is education. Many foreigners choose to study in the Philippines. They are attracted to the country’s high quality of education that comes in low prices compared to other countries. Philippines is also an English speaking country and foreigners find it easier to adapt to the warm Filipino culture because of this, survey says that there is a yearly increase in the number of foreign students with South Korea having the largest number of enrollees. The tuition fee in schools in the Philippines ranges from 700Php – 3,000Php. For foreigners, if converted to their currency, the tuition fee is cheap. But for Filipinos whose average monthly income plays around 10,000Php – 12,000Php, education is expensive. They see education as a luxury and not a necessity. In the Philippines, the quality of education varies with the financial status of the student. Most of the schools that offer high quality education are costly. Foreigners can afford it and call it low priced but an average Filipino family opts to enroll their child in a public school. In other countries, being enrolled in a public school is better because it means you have high grades. In Australia, there is only one state university. It is well funded by their government. It has state-or-the-art facilities and the teachers are of high caliber. Only students with high grades can enter this school. But in the Philippines, many state universities are established. Because of this the budget is divided to smaller amounts and is distributed to the different schools. Public schools are funded by the government thus their services, if not cheap is offered free while private schools are expensive. Their facilities also differ because private schools can afford state-of-the-art facilities and provide a learning conducive environment. On the other hand, public schools just wait for sponsorship or the government’s allocated budget which is even not enough as salary for teachers. Also, because of over-population, the teacher to student ratio in public schools is 1:60 or 1:70 in two shifts per day which is beyond the ideal 1:25 or 1:40 on one shift per day. Public schools use gyms and open spaces as makeshift classrooms where noise from pedestrians and vehicles cannot be ignored. The teachers try to adjust to  these situations and use microphones or shout. Teachers are also forced to handle two or more subjects which are even outside their specialization. This poses a threat to the quality of education they can provide to students. Public teachers are unsung heroes of the country. They are the ones suffering because of the government’s lack of prioritization. A teacher’s wage is not even enough for them to live a decent life but they still continue their profession. .