Save the endangered African Elephant Research Paper

Save the endangered African Elephant - Research Paper Example Those harming the elephants seem to intensify their activities each day despite the moves to oppose the activities leading to reduction in numbers of the number of elephants in African nations (Hertzler 8). The areas of our lives affected by this problem include: 1. The more the dwelling places for people continue decreasing as the population of the people increase, individuals and elephants remain constantly conflicting with each other in several occasions and at various places. 2. Where the farms are just next to the elephant dwelling places or cross elephant relocation paths, destruction to crops and societies become popular, causing the origin of fight, which the elephants at the end lose. 3. Worse of all, death on some occasions happens on both sides, as individuals remain tramped while attempting to cover their livelihood, and â€Å"challenge† range† elephants remain killed by game protectors. 4. Apart from these social effects of the elephants to human beings, pol itically, the extinction of elephants, which are a source of revenue to our nation, causes a drawback in the growth of the economy. The deterioration of the economy leads to poor living standards of the citizens of the affected nation. Step 2 Since 1981 to 1989, the elephant numbers in Africa decreased from 1.3 million to 650 thousand elephants. Eastern and central African nations permitted poachers to kill elephants for ivory. Southern African nations managed illegal hunting and controlled the numbers of elephants. Despite preservationists asking about the numbers projections, several individuals panicked that, African elephants could shortly distinguish from the earth. The poachers killed the elephants in large numbers even without caring the importance of them to African nations. The number of the elephants decreased at an alarming rate and the Africans had to respond quickly to save the situation (Hertzler 10). This situation led to: 1. Decreased number of tourists touring Afric an nations to visit the game parks and reserves to admire the elephants hence reduced revenue. 2. The reduced revenue led to slow rate of economic growth and thus affecting the living standards of the Africans: deteriorated. 3. Reduced number of tourists led to some individuals employed in the tourism sector losing their jobs and thus affecting their lives. 4. The loss of jobs may even lead to rise of crimes like theft in order for one to sustain his life and those of the dependants. Two sensitization programs remained started to save the elephants from the poachers who had intensified in their activities. One was political poaching to do away with global ivory business completely. The other program was a technique to form popular assets rights and offer local societies an incentive to preserve elephants. The program to prohibit trade remained started with the â€Å"Urgent Memorandum† through the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF). After the process of initializing, it remaine d forwarded to AWF team, giving caution on quick reduction in elephant preservation rule. Scholars inside WWF offered no support for the ban on ivory business (Chaytor 5). Scientists did not exist. The first group to suggest a prohibition remained the Human Society of the United States. They desired to improve African elephants from Appendix II to Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of Flora and Fauna, spelling out

Compare and Contrast Paper Essay Example for Free

Compare and Contrast Paper Essay I have chosen to use Story of an Hour, written by Kate Chopin and The Necklace, written by Guy de Maupassant for this compare and contrast paper. My intentions are to show similarities as well as differences between these two pieces and provide comparison of the works to provide a deeper insight into the topic of this paper. The theme I find similar in these two pieces is greed: you should be happy with what you have. In both stories you have women that are not happy in their situations, seeming to always be wanting for more. While the stories are very different, they do have a similar message. Dr.  Emily Chen, PhD states:† that reading a literary text is part of a complex process that includes collaboration between the writer, the text, and the reader. Text is re-created every time someone new reads it, and it becomes, in the process, increasingly richer. Text is a stimulus that elicits responses from us based on our past experiences, our previous reading, our thoughts, and our feelings: the text acts on the reader and the reader interacts with the text†. (Chen, 2009). Each story, read by each person will most likely illicit a different view based on their life experience, mood, age and gender. â€Å"Your environment and personal experiences influence your response to stories. Whether you are aware of it or not, the lens through which you envision a story is filtered by insights you have gained from family traditions, religious beliefs, and critical life issues. Thus, interpretations of a story vary based on the readers age and breadth of experience. Emotions affect conclusions drawn from stories. Interpretations differ from culture to culture. †(Clugston, 2010). Reading each of these stories now, affect me differently than if I had read them ten, fifteen or twenty years ago. The Necklace and Story of an Hour are both short stories set in about the same time period, the late 1800’s, in private residences. The Necklace is a story about a woman, Madame Loisel that is unhappy with her simple life as a clerk’s wife. She is always daydreaming about the finer things in life and the riches that she feels that she is missing out on. â€Å"She suffered intensely, feeling herself born for every delicacy and every luxury. She suffered from the poverty of her dwelling, from the worn walls, the abraded chairs, the ugliness of the stuffs. † (de Maupassant, 1884). Madame Loisel’s husband, in an effort to try and bring her happiness, receives an invitation to a party with the elite townspeople. Still not happy because she did not have an appropriate dress to wear, Madame Loisel’s husband gives her the money he was saving for himself so she could go out and purchase a dress. Even then she is still not happy because she has no jewelry to wear with it. She asks her friend Madame Forrester to borrow her something appropriate and ends up borrowing a â€Å"diamond† necklace from her. Ultimately, the necklace is lost the night of the grand party. Madame Loisel and her husband end up working themselves to death for the next ten years to pay off the debt they incurred in replacing the necklace, which ended up being a fake in the end. Their life as they once knew it was over. Story of an Hour is a short story featuring Louise Mallard, an unhappy housewife with a heart condition. In the story she learns of her husband’s death and within minutes goes from weeping uncontrollably to happy and joyful. â€Å"She said it over and over under her breath: free, free, free! The vacant stare and the look of terror that had followed it went from her eyes. † (Chopin, 1884). Mrs. Mallard felt oppressed in her marriage, that her husband did not love her and found a sense of freedom from his passing. â€Å"She knew that she would weep again when she saw the kind, tender hands folded in death; the face that had never looked save with love upon her, fixed and gray and dead. But she saw beyond that bitter moment a long procession of years to come that would belong to her absolutely. † (Chopin, 1884). Ultimately, Mr. Mallard did not pass in the accident and when he came through the door and she saw him, Louise passed right then. Each story features an unhappy woman as the main character. Madame Loisel in The Necklace is unhappy with her financial situation, always fantasizing about the finer things in life. Louise Mallard in Story of an Hour is an unhappy housewife with a heart condition, feeling oppressed in her marriage. In the end, both women pay a price for their wants: Madame Loisel to be wealthy or seen as wealthy pays by having to sacrifice her life to work twice as hard to repay a debt. Louise Mallard wanting her freedom finally receives it when she hears her husband has been killed in an accident, only to lose it with her death as he actually walks in the door. Foreshadowing is used in both these stories as well. Foreshadowing is described in our textbook as:†A technique a writer uses to hint or suggest what the outcome of an important conflict or situation in a narrative will be† (Clugston, 2010). Foreshadowing gives us some clues as to some of the events that will may possibly unfold in the stories. In The Necklace, the line It was not I, madam, who sold this necklace. I only supplied the case. (de Maupassant, 1884) provides a small hint that the necklace may not in fact have been genuine diamonds. In Story of an Hour, the simple fact that the opening line stated Louise Mallard had a heart condition I feel, provided a clue right away as to the fact she would die in the story. The line â€Å"someone was opening the front door with a latchkey. † (Chopin, 1894), also gives a clue that she could be surprised enough to have her heart fail. â€Å"There was something coming to her and she was waiting for it, fearfully. What was it? She did not know; it was too subtle and elusive to name. But she felt it, creeping out of the sky, reaching toward her through the sounds, the scents, and the color that filled the air. † (Chopin, 1894). This line, I feel, shows that Loise may even have felt her impending death. Possibly the reference in the line â€Å"But she felt it, creeping out of the sky, reaching toward her through the sounds, the scents, the color that filled the air. † (Chopin, 1894), could be a reference as to Jesus coming to take her to heaven. Irony takes place in both of these stories as well. Irony is defined in out textbook as: â€Å"A discrepancy or contradiction occurs between what is expected to happen and what actually happens in a situation (situation irony) or in an expressed statement (verbal irony). † (Clugston, 2010). Irony is shown in The Necklace when Madame Loisel runs into Madame Forrester on the street. Her friend did not recognize her because she had aged so much from all the extra work she had to do to pay her debt. They have a conversation about the necklace and how she had lost it and replaced it, I brought you back another just like it. And now for ten years we have been paying for it. You will understand that it was not easy for us, who had nothing. At last, it is done, and I am mighty glad. (de Maupassant, 1884) and Madame Forrester replies Oh, my poor Mathilde. But mine were false. At most they were worth five hundred francs! (de Maupassant, 1884). Madame Loisel had the exact opposite of the life she had fantasized about. Irony is shown in Story of an Hour by the fact that Louise was so elated at the thought of her new found freedom that he started visualizing her future alone and thought â€Å"It was only yesterday she had though with a shudder that life might be long. † Little did she know her life would end up shorter than she could imagine. Both of these stories represent death in the way that Madame Loisel and her husband’s life as they knew it died the night the necklace was lost. Louise Mallard simply died, I feel, from seeing her freedom being taken away by her husband still being alive: her heart simply could not take it. She not only lost the freedom she so longed for when her husband walked through the door, death made it impossible for her to ever have that freedom. These stories hold differences as well. The Necklace is set in Paris and spans years while the Story of an Hour does not give an exact place but is most likely set near where the author lived in St. Louis, Missouri and only denotes one hour of time. In The Necklace, Madame Loisel’s husband is always trying to make her happy, first by bringing her an invitation: But, my dear, I thought you would be pleased. You never go out, and heres a chance, a fine one. I had the hardest work to get it. Everybody is after them; they are greatly sought for and not many are given to the clerks. You will see there all the official world. (de Maupassant, 1884) and giving her money to buy a dress. Even though Madame Loisel is unhappy with her financial situation, it is never implied that she is unhappy with her husband. In Story of an Hour however, it is implied that Louise Mallard is unhappy in her marriage and she did not feel loved by her husband, â€Å"the face that had never looked save with love upon her†. (Chopin, 1894) nor did she love him, â€Å"And yet she had loved him—sometimes. Often she had not. What did it matter! † (Chopin, 1894). I feel that the only time Louise Mallard is truly happy is when she thinks she finally has the freedom to do whatever she wants. Each of these stories has women represented in different ways, most likely because they were written by different gendered authors. Story of an Hour was written from a female point of view and The Necklace was written from a male point of view. The time frame in which these stories were written is a significant factor in the style they were written. The late 1800’s was the beginning of the Women’s Movement. Many women longed for freedom, and men still viewed them as property. Kate Chopin was called a Liberationist during this time. Lewis Leary speaks of her writings in that â€Å"she wrote also of people (mostly women) caged by convention or lured toward freedom which brings at one time happiness, at another disaster or rebuff. † (Leary, 1970). He also discusses her personal views during this era. †Ms. Chopin was in revolt against tradition and authority. She saw sex as something which could or could not be conjoined with love or marriage, and she daringly – how daringly for her time and place! – undertook to give the unsparing truth about woman’s submerged life. † (Leary, 1970). In Story of an Hour, Louise Mallard is a woman who feels oppressed in her marriage and longs for freedom. In The Necklace, written from male point of view, portrays Madame Loisel as a greedy, materialistic woman worried about status and not happy with what she has. â€Å"Since early times, women have been uniquely viewed as a creative source of human life. Historically, however, they have been considered not only intellectually inferior to men but also a major source of temptation and evil. In Greek mythology, for example, it was a woman, Pandora, who opened the forbidden box and brought plagues and unhappiness to mankind. Early Roman law described women as children, forever inferior to men. † (WIC, 1994). Most men during this period felt women were inferior and their place was as a homemaker. They were considered the weaker sex and had few rights and Maupassant was no exception. According to Karen Bernado â€Å"He enjoyed visiting brothels, and his easy familiarity with prostitutes is reflected in stories such as Boule de Suif Ball of Fat, a quasi-endearing nickname for a voluptuous whore. He recognized how people can be brought down by vanity, a situation depicted in his famous story The Necklace. And he was fascinated with humanitys darker side, as we learn from his masterful character study of an effeminate military officer in Mademoiselle Fifi. His lifestyle, however, was to prove de Maupassants undoing; he died insane and far too young from complications brought on by syphilis. †(Bernardo, nd). He viewed women as nothing more than objects. Maupassant was â€Å"a classicist by his nearly exclusive study of the subject of man, concentrating on the rational man. † (Moore, 1918). Some of the qualities credited to him are realism and impersonality. â€Å"Maupassant is a realist so long as, from the point of view of a detached observer. † (Moore, 1918). I feel that a womans’ role in the 1890’s affected the way Maupassant wrote this story. The relationship between content, form and style in these two stories are similar in many ways. Our textbook says: †Stories also reflect culture. The term culture refers to common characteristics of a group or a region. Culture is never static; it is a changing phenomenon, constantly reconfigured by human behavior, language, laws, events, patterns, products, beliefs, and ideals. To put it simply, culture refers to a way of life, an ethos. Writers often reflect a particular culture through the setting of a story or the spirit of the characters lives—providing insight, for example, into Southern culture, post–World War I culture, or global culture. In this way stories preserve culture: they freeze moments in time and create cultural awareness. †(Clugston, 2010). I believe both of these stories reflect the culture of the late 1800’s, from very different viewpoints, male and female, but provide a similar morality lesson. Both are short stories and contain a set up, build up and payoff. Short stories have a plot with conflict–driven, tied–together actions and events, a setting, clear time frame, characters, point of view, a theme and features that include tone, irony, and symbolism. Knowing or not knowing the terms presented in this paper does not help or hinder a personal connection someone may have with a particular piece. I know for myself, the personal message I received from these stories, was a reflection on my life and personal experiences. I see people ungrateful for what they have daily. I was one of those people once, a long time ago. When we long for things we do not have, it keeps us from seeing and appreciating what we do have. You get caught up in things, and become willing to lie, cheat, steal, to do whatever it takes to get what you want. Imagine if Madame Loisel had just been content with being invited to the party and not worried about a dress and jewelry? Or what if she had just told the truth about losing the necklace? She would probably have not had to work the next ten years and been able to enjoy life. Socrates once said â€Å"He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have. † The bible contains many parables about it as well and Proverbs 15:27 states â€Å"A greedy man brings trouble to his family, but he who hates bribes will live. † As you can see, there are many similarities and differences between the short stories The Necklace and Story of an Hour. I feel one important message contained in these to be happy with what you have, because greed will get you in the end, and both characters paid a price for their greed. If Madame Loisel had been happy with her life as it was, her husband would have never felt the need to acquire the invitation to the party, which ended up costing them years of their lives as well as money. For the next ten years Madame Loisel had a life less than what she started with, a big contrast to the life she fantasized about. Louise Mallard was unhappy in her marriage. Thinking she finally had her freedom when she thought her husband had been killed, she was overjoyed; only to have her heart give out when she found out her husband was still alive. We all should be careful what we wish for because we might just get it. References Chen PhD, E. (2009). The Reader-Centered Approach to Literature. Retrieved from http:/www. litguide. press. jhu. eduwww2. nkfust. edu. tw/~emchen/CLit/teach_reader- centered. htm Clugston, R. (2010). Journey into Literature. Bridgepoint Education, San Diego. Groden, M. Kreiswirth, M. and Szeman, I. 2005-2012. The John Hopkins Guide to Literary Theory and Criticism. Retrieved from http:// www. litguide. press. jhu. edu Leary, L. Kate Chopin, Liberationist? The Southern Literary Journal, Vol. 3, No. 1 (Fall, 1970), pp. 138-144. Retrieved from JSTOR online Ashford University. Moore, O. The Romanticism of Guy Maupassant. PMLA, Vol. 33, No. 1 (1918), pp. 96-134. WIC, 1994. Womens’ History in America. Retrieved from http://wic. org Retrieved from JSTOR online Ashford University.

The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Stem Cell Research Philosophy Essay

The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Stem Cell Research Philosophy Essay Stem cell research. Straightforward words that mean a lot more than a newfound field in the scientific field. Stem cells have the chance to change everything that we know in the medical field as well as the potential to heal wounds and damaged organs. Yet using stem cells for research causes much debate and anger from those opposed to stem cell research but they are only focusing on the process and not the results of it.  Many oppose embryonic stem cell research because it kills a living human embryo in the process, which Pro Life advocates see as murder. There is an unending conflict between those who see as the potential to save lives, and those who see it as murder. Human embryonic stem cells (hESC) are cells that are created when a blastocyst is created after sperm enter the female egg. These stem cells are cells that havent been given a specific task yet, allowing scientists to extract them and use them for therapy. The cells, which are derived from several-day-old embryos, can theoretically differentiate into virtually any type of human cell, from blood cells to skin cells. Scientists hope to find ways of using them to repair damaged tissue. The potential use for these stem cells includes curing/treating a myriad of diseases, conditions, and disabilities including Parkinsons disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal cord injury, HIV, burns, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis (AAAS). There are multiple types of stem cells, which include adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells. Embryonic stem cells have the widest range of treatment because they can be differentiated into any type of cell, while adult stem cells can only be made into a few types of specific cells (Stem Cell Science). There are two main positions on embryonic stem cell research. The main reason the topic is controversial is because Pro life advocates, Christians, and many republicans see the destruction of the human embryo as murder or the ending of a potential human life. Critics argue that this destruction of human life is not worth the benefits because life is destroyed to potentially save another. The argument comes down to the same one as abortion, but at an even smaller scale. Blastocysts, which are destroyed in embryonic stem cell research are only made of 200 cells (there are 50 trillion in a human body) (Stem Cell Science). Pro life advocates argue that any destruction of potential human life is wrong, which creates tension between the scientific community and critics (Religious Tolerance). The Pro life argument targets those with strong religious backgrounds, and actively advertises that embryonic stem cell research is unethical. Opponents of hESC research believe that human life begins as soon as an egg is fertilized; and they consider a human embryo to be a human being. They therefore consider any research that necessitates the destruction of a human embryo to be morally abhorrent. Many critics of embryonic stem cell research, or ESCr, suggest that adult stem cell research is a better alternative because it does not destroy human embryos. Adult stem cells cannot be made into as many different types of cells that hESC can, which leads to disagreements. The pro life argument takes a strong ethical standpoint on science and medicine, which is a powerful and effective technique for making sure research is halted (NIH) (AAAS). The other side of the argument is the scientific viewpoint. Medical professionals and scientists hold that of stem cells have the potential to cure everything from Parkinsons to HIV. (NIH) The scientific community sees ESCr and its potential as a major breakthrough in medicine and science. The reason for outrage in the scientific community is that there is a large potential for life saving through ESCr, and that funding and public support is being threatened or ended because of the opposing side. Many scientists agree that ESCr has huge possibilities to cure Parkinsons and other infamous and deadly diseases. The main reason that scientists talk about the probability and potential of hESC is because due to opposition, much research hasnt been allowed to occur (Popular Issues) (PBS). Taking sides over embryonic stem cell research has its drawbacks. Scientists and politicians who take the pro-research side get attacked by people that are against it. Politicians especially come under fire due to the large support of anti-research that comes from many ethical foundations like the church. These foundations then lobby other politicians to fight funding for this research. This creates a conflict between the two opposing sides. Embryonic stem cell research is a topic that is contested by many, and would not be considered work safe due to the deep positions people take on the topic. The embryonic stem cell debate is a national argument, being more accepted in other countries than in America. There has been infamous legislation banning the funding for it by George W. Bush, and then the restoration of funding by President Barack Obama. Each party has their own view on the topic, with Republicans being generally more against ESCr, and democrats more for it. The Republican Party uses religious ethics to justify their standpoint on the topic, which is a very effective technique in America. Many people are very religious and so they immediately decide to be against ESCr (PBS) (Religious Tolerance) (Pros and Cons). A part of the controversy is over the use of adult stem cells. Many religious figures and politicians give adult stem cells as an all around better alternative to ESCr. This is contested by the scientific community due to the fact that adult stem cells can only be differentiated into less than half the cells that embryonic ones can. (NIH) Some opponents of ESCr also argue that research on stem cells obtained from adults is just as promising and makes research unnecessary. Most scientists, however, contest this claim citing great potential in the field of adult stem cells but several downsides with embryonic stem cells. Proponents of ESCr research advocate funding for both fields. Embryonic stem cells can be made into any type of cell in the human body. This allows hESC to be used to help with diseases like AIDS, Parkinsons, Alzheimers, brain cancer, and injuries such as spinal cord damage. Adult stem cells are a very popular alternative, but many scientists believe that cures lie in the study and research of all types of stem cells, not just adult ones. Lately, a new way to harvest stem cells has been proven effective; to take human skin cells and trick them into becoming stem cells (NIH). However, this is not an end to the moral issue, but instead may prove to make acquiring new types of stem cells harder, because Pro Lifers will say this is a way to avoid killing an embryo, even if it is already given up for science. A few major problems with the cells, is that they are simply not tough enough to undergo reproduction to create the new organ or cell type necessary. Also, the cells simply are physically older, and therefore cannot produce as well as embryonic stem cells, and are unsuitable for many operations. (Popular Issues) Though it is important to study this new kind of stem cell group, the use of embryonic stem cells cannot be discounted; as they are the most studied and have been established to be the most useful. Politicians and Lobbyists have put a stop to the growth of stem cell research, which can mean millions to those who are rightful to the treatments, while the research gained by the government is open to the public, which allows scientists to search for more cures. Former president Bill Clinton, under demands from the general population and elected officials, permitted stem cell research to be slowed down with the Dickey Amendment. This put a stop on all federal funding for stem cell research. While Clinton was still in office in, an ambiguity was found in the law that allowed for the embryo to be destroyed with non-governmental funds, and then experimented on with funding from the government. During this time, there was an increase in stem cell research, and numerous types of stem cells were discovered (AAAS) (PBS). President Obama passed legislation that allows funding for ESCr, which is a major step forward for research. Each political party opposes one another on this topic, so it is important for politicians to tell their followers which side theyve taken. The national community in the United States is divided on the topic of ESCr. Many are concerned about the ethical concerns of destroying embryos, but they also see the unbelievable benefits it could reap. Many are also faithful followers of the church, which mandates that no human life be destroyed. Pro Life advocates tell their followers that this is murder, which leads to opposition to ESCr. These attitudes reflect the Christian principles that America was founded upon. It also shows that a large amount of American politics and policies are affected enormously by religion (Religious Tolerance) (Popular Issues). I believe that the government should fund embryonic stem cell research and allow scientists to investigate the unbelievable potential in this field. Scientists have decided that they wont create embryos to destroy to get the stem cells for research, but use the many left over ones from in vitro fertilization, a technique of creating many human embryos to fertilize a woman, which often ends in many extra embryos being created. In-vitro leftovers allow embryos that would already be frozen and later destroyed to be put forward for a higher cause. People against ESCr argue that the use of leftover in-vitro embryos will lead to more abortions and embryos being destroyed (Religious Tolerance) (Science Daily). Much has been proven for the abilities of stem cells; one of the most recent is the creation of a hESC entirely from stem cells (PBS).This creates tension because people have always been against human cloning, as it poses the ethical difficulty of whether or not we can play God. Another problem with the stem cells is that if they are studied by mixing them with another organism, the new organism could become more humanlike and that is another moral problem that afflicts many people. These are very important ethical questions, but they should not be quarreled over by Congress, by politicians serving their citizens, who ironically consist of lobbyists; they should instead be debated and rules set by the scientific community, to protect the veracity of science, and prevent chaos through misunderstanding. Although there are many issues with the system, there is a large necessity to discover more types of stem cells. Without new stem cell lines we could otherwise see this type of scientif ic examination become purely theoretical in nature, which is like counting the number of how many angels you can fit on a pin. Stem cells are gifts to mankind, and are able to save untold amounts of people. We cannot allow an issue of religion and political partiality to discourage us from saving the people who need these stem cells the most. Stem cell research may be an ethical problem for some, but the prospects of growth and of treatment for the ill, far overshadows any hypothetical moral debate, as the lives of those who hurt, certainly should have treatments examined to provide a happy, and healthy life for them. The government should fund stem cell research, to provide the next person who needs help the treatment they ought to have.

Corporate Control of the Media Defines Our Culture :: Argumentative Persuasive Topics

Corporate Control of the Media Defines Our Culture Viacom is on the warpath. They got your MTV, and Blockbuster, and even Paramount pictures. Forrest Gump is on the payroll. Any rock band or rap artist who wants to be anything is too. They own your music and your movies and a lot of the television you watch, and pretty soon they'll probably own all the books you read. They don't just supply the movies or music, either. First they tell you what you're going to like- -they lifted Forrest Gump all the way to an Oscar--and then they give it to you. And, if they're marketing is as good as it usually is, you're probably going to like it. They rule your tastes. They rule your culture. Viacom is everywhere. Viacom sucks. Viacom, with billions of dollars in their infantry, is conquering culture. They're not the only corporate general, though, leading the charge. Time/Warner has a formidable platoon, buying up magazines and chain stores and TV stations. Steven Spielberg, David Geffen, and Jeffrey Katzenberg, all with so much money they can't even spend it, just formed a multi-billion dollar media conglomerate called DreamWorks SKG. They want movies and music and TV and computers and anything else that entertains us. They want it all, and IBM and Microsoft and MCA records, among others rounding out the all-star corporate squad, are looking to get in on the deal. The war for cultural dominance is on, with billions and even trillions of dollars on the line. Everyone stand aside. The big guys are here to fight, and fight hard. Culture is a multi-billion dollar industry. Movies, computers, books, CD's, theme parks--they're what Americans spend their money on. Everyone has seen Jurassic Park. Everyone has heard Michael Jackson. Entertainment, and the culture it defines, is something we all share, something that unifies the American, and even world, experience. Little else can or does. Movies, music, TV especially have become the cultural staples of our time. A number one song can make you a millionaire, and some movies become so popular that literally everyone has seen them. Entertainment defines the American scene. It is our culture. It is, then, inevitably a part of everyone's life, if not only through your pocketbook. This, then, is what drives the battle to conquer culture--your money. American culture--what America reads, listens to, and watches--grows larger and larger every year, expanding like the Blob(a cultural icon) not only across the country but also across the world.

Protein Energy Malnutrition Essay

The article’s subject concerns the protein deficiency among infants in the Osun state of Nigeria. Nursing frequency and duration experienced a reduction during complementary food were introduced to infants in Osun. Mothers tend to be complacent in feeding their babies with complementary food, which result to the minimized breast-feeding of mothers that hinders the natural nutrition that these infants need.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In a study conducted among Osun infants, they discovered that it was not a advisable for children at this age to be fed by such synthetic food. Consumption of such tends to halt the natural nourishment the babies need from their mothers. As early as two years old, babies were exposed already to complementary food, which is against the requirement of the World Health Organization (Ogunba, 2004). According to WHO, the amount of protein and calories (energy) that were consumed by infants were not above standard levels because these foods contain excess amount of carbohydrates alone (Ogunba, 2004). Obviously, the nutritional requirement of an infant is not met due to the outcome of early supplementation of these synthetic food. Infants’ natural diet should require constant breast-feeding in which they are enable to consume protein from milk. Unfortunately, this apt nutritional nourishment is ignored by the mothers in Osun (Ogunba, 2004).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In a study conducted among Osun infants, protein energy malnutrition was discovered that it was in constant depletion. The lack of protein among the infants resulted to â€Å"stunting†. Stunting   has a significant presence in the rural areas, which is an indication of chronic under-nutrition in these areas (Ogunba, 2004). It was discovered that stunting was among the culprits of infant growth faltering, as a result from the consumption of complementary food, children from one to six months of age were experiencing a decrease in growth and health progress (Ogunba, 2004). Stunting is the most prevalent of the different manifestations of PEM (33.9 per cent), followed by underweight (21.0 per cent) and wasting (9.2 per cent) (Ogunba, 2004). Children need protein more than adults do because they are constantly growing and developing. The protein requirement of infants is per unit of body weight higher than those of adults. Reference Ogunba,B. (2004). Protein energy malnutrition in complemented breast-fed babies: implications of   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   the timing of complementary feeding. Nutrition & Food Science. Retrieved February 10,   Ã‚  Ã‚   2008, from   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://swtuopproxy.museglobal.com/MuseSessionID=af57a678251afeca8c38cca61826cae/   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   MuseHost=www.emeraldinsight.com/MusePath/Insight/ViewContentServlet?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Filename=Published/EmeraldFullTextArticle/Articles/0170340504.html

The Origins of the Roman Festival Lupercalia

The Origins of the Roman Festival Lupercalia Lupercalia is one of the most ancient of the Roman holidays (one of the feriae listed on ancient calendars from even before the time Julius Caesar reformed the calendar). It is familiar to us today for two main reasons: It is associated with Valentines Day.It is the setting for Caesars refusal of the crown that was made immortal by Shakespeare, in his ​Julius Caesar. This is important in two ways: the association of Julius Caesar and the Lupercalia gives us some insight into the final months of Caesars life as well as a look at the Roman holiday. The name of the Lupercalia was talked about a lot in the wake of the 2007 discovery of the legendary Lupercal cave  - where, supposedly, the twins Romulus and Remus were suckled by a she-wolf. The Lupercalia may be the longest-lasting of the Roman pagan festivals. Some modern Christian festivals, like Christmas and Easter, took on elements of earlier pagan religions, but they are not essentially Roman, pagan holidays. Lupercalia may have started at the time of the founding of Rome (traditionally 753 B.C.) or even before. It ended about 1200 years later, at the end of the 5th century A.D., at least in the West, although it continued in the East for another few centuries. There may be many reasons why Lupercalia lasted so long, but most important must have been its wide appeal. Why Is Lupercalia Associated With Valentine's Day? If all you know about Lupercalia is that it was the background for Mark Antony to offer the crown to Caesar 3 times in Act I of Shakespeares Julius Caesar, you probably wouldnt guess that Lupercalia was associated with Valentines Day. Other than Lupercalia, the big calendar event in Shakespeares tragedy is the Ides of March, March 15. Although scholars have argued that Shakespeare did not intend to portray Lupercalia as the day before the assassination, it sure sounds that way. Cicero points to the danger to the Republic that Caesar presented on this Lupercalia, according to J.A. North- a danger the assassins addressed on that Ides. It was also, to quote Cicero (Philippic I3): that day on which, sodden with wine, smothered with perfumes and naked (Antony) dared to urge the groaning people of Rome into slavery by offering Caesar the diadem that symbolized the kingship.Caesar at the Lupercalia, by J. A. North; The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 98 (2008), pp. 144-160 Chronologically, Lupercalia was a full month before the Ides of March. Lupercalia was February 15 or February 13-15, a period either proximate to or covering modern Valentines Day. History of Lupercalia Lupercalia conventionally starts with the founding of Rome (traditionally, 753 B.C.), but may be a more ancient import, coming from Greek Arcadia and honoring Lycaean  Pan, the Roman  Inuus  or Faunus. [Lycaean is a word connected with the Greek for wolf as seen in the term lycanthropy for werewolf.] Agnes Kirsopp Michaels says Lupercalia only goes back to the 5th century B.C. Tradition has the legendary twin brothers Romulus and Remus establishing the Lupercalia with 2  gentes, one for each brother. Each  gens  contributed members to the priestly college that performed the ceremonies, with Jupiters priest, the  flamen  dialis, in charge, from at least the time of  Augustus. The priestly college was called the  Sodales Luperci  and the priests were known as  Luperci. The original 2  gentes  were the Fabii, on behalf of Remus, and the Quinctilii, for Romulus. Anecdotally, the Fabii were almost annihilated, in 479. at  Cremera  (Veientine  Wars) and the most famous member of the Quinctilii has the distinction of being the Roman leader at the disastrous battle at  Teutoberg Forest  (Varus and the Disaster at Teutoberg Wald). Later, Julius Caesar made a short-lived addition to the  gentes  who could serve as Luperci, the Julii. When Mark Antony ran as a Luperci in 44 B.C., it was the first time the Luperci Juliani had appeared at the Lupercalia and Antony was their leader. By September of the same year, Antony was complaining that the new group had been disbanded [J. A. North and Neil McLynn]. Although originally the Luperci had to be aristocrats, the  Sodales Luperci  came to include equestrians, and then, the lower classes. Etymologically, Luperci, Lupercalia, and Lupercal all relate to the Latin for wolf  lupus, as do various Latin words connected with brothels. The Latin for she-wolf was slang for prostitute. The legends say that Romulus and Remus were nursed by a she-wolf in the Lupercal. Servius, a  4th-century  pagan commentator on  Vergil, says that it was in the Lupercal that  Mars  ravished and impregnated the twins mother. (Servius  ad. Aen. 1.273) The Performance The cavorting  Sodales Luperci  performed an annual purification of the city in the month for purification February. Since early in Roman history March was the start of the New Year, the period of February was a time to get rid of the old and prepare for the new. There were two stages to the events of the Lupercalia: The first was at the site where the twins Romulus and Remus were said to have been found being suckled by the she-wolf. This is the Lupercal. There, priests sacrificed a goat and a dog whose blood they smeared on the foreheads of the young men who would soon go prancing naked around the Palatine (or sacred way) aka the Luperci. The hide of the sacrificial animals was cut into strips for use as lashes by the Luperci after the necessary feasts and drinking.Following the feast, the second stage began, with the Luperci running around naked, joking, and hitting women with their goatskin thongs. Naked or scantily-clad festival celebrants, the Luperci probably ran about the area of the  Palatine  settlement. Cicero [Phil. 2.34, 43; 3.5; 13.15] is indignant at a  nudus,  unctus,  ebrius  naked, oiled, drunk Antony serving as Lupercus. We dont know why the Luperci were naked.  Plutarch  says it was for speed. While running, the Luperci struck those men or women they encountered with goatskin thongs (or perhaps a  lagobolon  throwing stick in the early years) following the opening event: a sacrifice of goat or goat and dog. If the Luperci, in their run, circled the Palatine Hill, it would have been impossible for Caesar, who was at the rostra, to have witnessed the entire proceedings from one spot. He could, however, have seen the climax. The naked Luperci started at the Lupercal, ran (wherever they ran, Palatine Hill or elsewhere), and ended at the Comitium. The running of the Luperci was a spectacle. Wiseman says  Varro  called the Luperci actors (ludii). The first stone theater in Rome was to have overlooked the Lupercal. There is even a reference in Lactantius to the Luperci wearing dramatic masks. Speculation abounds as to the reason for the striking with the thongs or  lagobola. Perhaps the Luperci struck men and women to sever any deadly influence they were under, as Michaels suggests. That they might be under such an influence has to do with the fact that one of the festivals to honor the dead, the Parentalia, occurred at about the same time. If the act was to ensure fertility, it could be that the striking of the women was to represent penetration. Wiseman says that obviously, the husbands wouldnt have wanted the Luperci actually copulating with their wives, but symbolic penetration, broken skin, made by a piece of a fertility symbol (goat), could be effective. Striking women is thought to have been a fertility measure, but there was also a decided sexual component. The women may have bared their backs to the thongs from the festivals inception. According to Wiseman (citing Suet. Aug.), after 276 B.C., young married women (matronae) were encouraged to bare their bodies. Augustus ruled out beardless young men from serving as Luperci because of their irresistibility, even though they were probably no longer naked. Some classical writers refer to the Luperci as wearing goatskin loincloths by the 1st century B.C. Goats and the Lupercalia Goats are symbols of sexuality and fertility.  Amaltheas goat horn brimming with milk became the  cornucopia. One of the most lascivious of the gods was Pan/Faunus, represented as having horns and a caprine bottom half. Ovid (through whom we are chiefly familiar with the events of the Lupercalia) names him as the god of the Lupercalia. Before the run, the Luperci priests performed their sacrifices of goats or goats and dog, which Plutarch calls the enemy of the wolf. This leads to another of the problems scholars discuss, the fact that the  flamen  dialis  was present at the Lupercalia (Ovid  Fasti  2. 267-452) in the time of Augustus. This priest of Jupiter was forbidden to touch a dog or goat and may have been forbidden even to look at a dog. Holleman suggests that Augustus added the presence of the  flamen  dialis  to a ceremony at which he had earlier been absent. Another Augustan innovation may have been the goatskin on previously naked Luperci, which would h ave been part of an attempt to make the ceremony decent. Flagellation By the second century A.D. some of the elements of sexuality had been removed from the Lupercalia. Fully dressed matrons stretched out their hands to be whipped. Later, the representations show women humiliated by flagellation at the hands of men fully dressed and no longer running about. Self-flagellation was part of the rites of Cybele on the day of blood  dies  sanguinis  (March 16). Roman flagellation could be fatal. Horace (Sat., I, iii) writes about  horribile  flagellum, but the whip so used may have been a rougher sort. Scourging became a common practice in the monastic communities. It would seem likely, and we think Wiseman agrees (p. 17), that with the early churchs attitudes towards women and mortification of the flesh, Lupercalia fit right in despite its association with a pagan deity. In The God of the Lupercalia, T. P. Wiseman suggests a variety of related gods may have been the god of the Lupercalia. As mentioned above, Ovid counted Faunus as the god of the Lupercalia. For Livy, it was  Inuus. Other possibilities include Mars, Juno, Pan, Lupercus, Lycaeus, Bacchus, and Februus. The god itself was less important than the festival. The End of the Lupercalia Sacrifice, which was a part of  Roman  ritual, had been prohibited since A.D. 341, but the Lupercalia survived beyond this date. Generally, the end of the Lupercalia festival is attributed to  Pope Gelasius  (494-496). Wiseman believes it was another late  5th century  pope,  Felix III. The ritual had become important to the civic life of Rome and was believed to help prevent pestilence, but as the pope charged, it was no longer being performed in the proper manner. Instead of the noble families running around naked (or in a loincloth), riffraff was running around clothed. The pope also mentioned that it was more a fertility festival than a purification rite and there was pestilence even when the ritual was performed. The popes lengthy document seems to have put an end to the celebration of Lupercalia in Rome, but in  Constantinople, again, according to Wiseman, the festival continued to the tenth century. Sources Caesar at the Lupercalia, by J. A. North;  The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 98 (2008), pp. 144-160.An Enigmatic Function of the Flamen Dialis (Ovid, Fast., 2.282) and the Augustan Reform, by A. W. J. Holleman.  Numen, Vol. 20, Fasc. 3. (Dec.,  1973), pp. 222-228.The God of the Lupercal, by T. P. Wiseman.  The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 85. (1995), pp. 1-22.Postscript to the Lupercalia: From Caesar to Andromachus, by J. A. North and Neil McLynn;  The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 98 (2008), pp. 176-181.Some Notes on the Lupercalia, by E. Sachs.  The American Journal of Philology, Vol. 84, No. 3. (Jul.,  1963), pp. 266-279.The Topography and Interpretation of the Lupercalia, by Agnes Kirsopp Michels.  Transactions and Proceedings of the American Philological Association, Vol. 84. (1953), pp. 35-59.The Lupercalia in the Fifth Century, by William M. Green.  Classical Philology, Vol. 26, No. 1. (Jan.,  1931), pp. 60-69.

2014s Best and Worst Words to put on Your Resume

2014s Best and Worst Words to put on Your Resume Last week, as reported by Forbes in The Best and Worst Words To Use On Your Resume, CareerBuilder came out with a list of both recommended and ill-advised resume words and phrases for 2014. The list was generated through interviews with 2,200 hiring managers and human resources staffers. One surprising result from this survey, says Forbes, is a possible change in the length of time hiring managers spend looking at a resume: 17% said they spend 30 seconds or less, but 68% said they can read for up to two full minutes before moving on! That’s fairly good news for any job seeker – but it means you need to avoid turning off the reader with distasteful words and phrases so that they will be more likely to read further. I believe an even bigger trick would be to leave out these â€Å"worst† words while also including the keywords from the job description your resume is targeting. No problem right? For instance, one of the no-nos on the list is â€Å"self-motivated.† But what if the job description asks for someone who is self-motivated and you know your resume will be going through an ATS (Applicant Tracking System) for screening? What if, by some stroke of misfortune, the job description contains the words â€Å"results-driven,† â€Å"team player† or â€Å"detail-oriented† – phrases I have banished from my resumes since day 1? I think that would be my worst nightmare. My point is: Do avoid these words, but do not do so at all costs. Sometimes exceptions need to be made. By the same token, just because a word is on the â€Å"best resume words† list doesn’t mean you should overuse it. Of course hiring managers want to see words like â€Å"improved† and â€Å"increased/decreased.† But these words can get very old very fast. Repeated usage of the same verbs can put your readers to sleep; so consider varying your language to keep them on their toes! Consider synonyms like â€Å"heightened,† â€Å"boosted,† â€Å"multiplied,† â€Å"accelerated,† â€Å"cut,† â€Å"shrank,† and other power verbs. I for one will use more colorful words until a report comes out with those words on the â€Å"worst† list. For a robust list of power resume verbs, check out my e-books, How to Write a WINNING Resume and How to Write a STELLAR Executive Resume. OK I won’t keep you in suspense any longer. Here’s CareerBuilder’s list of the worst words to use on your resume: Best of breed Go-getter Think outside of the box Synergy Go-to person Thought leadership Value add Results-driven Team player Bottom-line Hard worker Strategic thinker Dynamic Self-motivate Detail-oriented Proactively Track record And the words hiring managers want to see: Achieved Improved Trained/mentored Managed Created Resolved Volunteered Influenced Increased/decreased Ideas Negotiated Launched Revenue/profits Under budget Won The real lesson here is that hiring managers want to see results, not descriptions of your greatest characteristics, nor broad claims of greatness. The more you can convey the facts and numbers of your achievements, the better. Now do this: Check your resume. How many of the â€Å"worst resume words† are on it? Can you transform your resume into one that will keep a hiring manager reading for an entire †¦ two †¦ minutes? If so, you might be able to list â€Å"Won resume game† as one of your most impressive credentials. Category:Resume TipsBy Brenda BernsteinMarch 24, 2014 1 Comment Susan Gainen says: March 25, 2014 at 11:39 am Thank you for sharing this. Log in to Reply

3 Things You Need to Do Before You Apply For a New Job

3 Things You Need to Do Before You Apply For a New Job If your current job isn’t keeping you challenged and on your toes, stepping out into the field might be a great idea. So take a deep breath, make sure you’re sure you want to quit  your job, and do the following three things. 1. Re-evaluate your current gigWhat did you love about this job? Can you remember why you were excited about it in the first place? What did you learn? These questions will help you to make the best choice about your next gig. By being honest about the good and bad aspects of your current job, you’ll know better what you’re really looking for with your next.2. Don’t burn any bridgesYou need to look for new connections and new mentors, but you also need to keep up the relationships you already have. Be as active as possible in recruiting new talent into your network, and getting yourself out there in your new industry or work group, but don’t let your existing network fizzle. You’ll never know when you might need those contacts.3. Come out in the openThe hardest part will be telling your current boss that you are leaving- or thinking about leaving. But it is much better to be up front about this. It’s the classy and professional move. Your boss will thank you for the lead time to fill your position- and a month to six weeks notice is much better than the standard two.As long as you’re honest with yourself and your current boss, you can walk clear-eyed and contented into your next opportunity.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 8250 words

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 - Coursework Example Such simulators provide a cheaper route for the learning and the developing models. Today video games like flight simulation have encouraged many to take up actual training to become pilots or designers of the aircrafts. For the training of pilot high fidelity rates are required for the simulators. In today's world the simulators play a very important role for their training. The environmental conditions as well as the reflex responses of the pilots are developed with the help of these simulators. They are then trained further on the basis of this knowledge base. Microsoft started working on the flight simulator projects first as a series of articles about computer graphics in 1976. Bruce Artwick detailed concepts of flight simulation by drawing 3D graphics which were published in the magazine. It was the response that Artwick received from the subscribers of the magazine that spurred him to form subLOGIC Corporation in order to sell his ideas. He started working on his ideas and very soon the Microsoft flight simulator was developed and this was just the beginning of the many new versions with up gradations to be born. Flight simulators started selling by the new founded company though mail orders in the late 70's like hot cakes. By the beginning of 1980 Flight Simulator for Apple II was released and it was this that revolutionized everything. Since then to this date a number of FS were produced each better than the previous version. By 1982 it was the best selling software; its users were computer hobbyists and scientists. Artwick soon shi fted from Apple to Microsoft when they approached him with the new computer in design the IBM PC. By the end of 1982 it was a best seller first entertainment program for IBM PC. The software was also used by the computer designers as a test for PC compatibility. Soon it started working for products for Federal Aviation Administration and for this Bruce Artwick Organization (BAO) came into being. DEFINITION: Software that emulates real world flying is known as Flight Simulator. Criticism The product has so much realism attached to it that the serious users of the product cannot deny its worth as a great teaching aid in the home simulation series. It was because of this factor that The Flight Simulation series by Microsoft was much criticized as people thought it had provided the knowledge to the terrorists of 9/11 attack by the manufacturing of such a product. One of the terrorist involved in the attacks had simulation software on his laptop. Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of flight It was released in 23 July 2003 and had only one edition. Also named FS9 came at the time when Microsoft celebrated 20 years of making these simulation products and it was to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of first flight of Wright Brothers. It is one of the comprehensive home flight simulator series by Microsoft. It is dream software for anyone who is interested in the flying of an aircraft, even pilots or would be pilots. For a fresher the software is

Compensation Plan Outline Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Compensation Plan Outline - Assignment Example The following is an outline of Kellogg’s compensation plan. Kellogg is the world’s number one producer of cereal, snacks, and frozen food producer including, crackers, cookies, cereal bars, fruits, flavored snacks, toaster pastries, veggie foods, and frozen waffles. In order to motivate its employees, the company has come up with a compensation plan, which provides eligible workers with a competitive form of retirement benefits depending on the years of service and pay and improve the performance of the employees. Kellogg Company uses a variety of equity-based compensation plans to provide long-term compensation to employees (Zoltners, Sinha, & Lorimer, 2006). Currently, the company’s incentives comprise of only stock options and executive performance shares, stock grants, and restricted stock units. In addition, Kellogg Company compensates employees for tax equalization payments, travel and home leave allowances, adjustments for cost of living, moving and relocation allowances, utilities and housing allowances, and hardship pr emiums and foreign service allowances (Harding & Rovit, 2004). Kellogg Company agrees to give compensations and benefits, according to the terms and condition of the Company’s benefit and compensation rules and regulations. Employees warrant and represent that an employee has gone through the compensation plan and understood its application and meaning. For the purpose of the compensation plan, employees in Kellogg Company agree that.A worker shall receive compensation and benefits as according to the compensation plan. According to the compensation plan of Kellogg Company, employees should receive compensation pay, which is equal to two operational years of target bonus and base salary. Such compensation amount shall be paid to employees under equal install aments as from the departure date (Plunkett, Jack, & Plunkett, 2009). According to Kellogg Company, then the

Observations in Settings Serving Children with Disabilities Essay

Observations in Settings Serving Children with Disabilities - Essay Example It seemed like a typical class where the teacher discussed lessons with the children and the children actively shared their ideas. Later, the teacher distributed some worksheets and asked the children to work in pairs. I was told by the teacher that she had pre-arranged the pairings in various ways depending on her goal for the students. The children with special needs (1 had ADHD and the other one had some cognitive delay) were given modified activities and paired with high performing students to help them out by peer tutoring. Once the children started working, the teacher went around the room checking on each pair, stopping once in a while to help those who need help or asking questions to guide the children. The children with special needs do not stand out. I would never identify them as such had I not been told they had special needs because they blend in so well with the typically-developing students. The second setting was a one-on-one session between a 7-year old boy with cog nitive delay and a reading specialist. She was trying to teach him phonetic sounds. She showed him some letter cards and asked him to sound out the letters. First it was done slowly with the teacher making the sounds while showing the cards and he imitated her. Later on, she kept showing him the cards and expected him to sound the letters by himself. Next came picture cards that he needed to identify and match the initial sound of the word with a letter. She started with only 3 pairs of picture and letters graduating to about 10 pairs at a time. The boy seemed to have a difficult time processing the pairings because it took him a long time to match the cards, but the reading teacher was very patient. My initial reaction to the observation was pure awe. I was so inspired with how these teachers can be so patient and understanding in helping out the students with special needs and they go out of their way preparing special activities for them. I thought they meticulously planned ahead in order to meet their needs and for the teacher of the inclusive class, to address each child’s need. I realized it takes special training to do what they do and a passion and commitment to do so. With the inclusive class, the teacher had to contend with multiple personalities and consider each student’s skill level so she can pair them off well. That meant she had previous knowledge of these children and have assessed them thoroughly. It seemed her pairings worked because I observed all the children productively working together. The partner of the child with ADHD was also very patient in holding his attention, often tapping his shoulder to make him focus on their task. I am not sure if this partner or any of the other typically- developing children were trained to deal with peers with special needs, but this boy seemed to know how to handle the hyperactive tendencies of his partner. The partner of the child with cognitive delay likewise displayed patience with her partner. She was like a miniature teacher going through the activity with him, asking him guiding questions so he can come up with the solution. It was obvious that she already knew the answer, however, she wanted him to figure it out himself. I saw a smile cross her face when he was able to answer the problem correctly. The reading teacher, on the other hand, worked only with one child, but I think it took much effort in guiding him. She poured all her concentrated effort on him without being distracted.

Compare between the three models of international human rights Essay

Compare between the three models of international human rights (statist, cosmopolitan, and internationalist) based on the streng - Essay Example The major issues that these theories seek to address include civil wars, conflict prevention as well as resolution. Humanitarian interventions which have not been fully explored as far as human rights models are concerned .However; it is an area that greatly provides strong themes as far as human rights models are concerned. Statism is one of the models that are very important as far as human rights are concerned in the international regime. Under this model, it is the responsility of the nation to ensure that human rights are adhered to. This model is similar to that of internationalist and cosmopolitanism2. They both hold to the treaties of universal declaration of human rights universalism. The treaty states that all nations should ensure that the needs of their citizens are met. This model has one weakness; it is the state that takes precedence before any human right can be recognized. Never the less, statism is seen as the most appropriate as far as issues regarding politics are concerned.Statism has also resulted into stronger states harassing weaker ones.Therefore,as much as statist is an international regime that looks at the rights of citizens, internationalism and cosmopolitanism looks at the welfare of citizens of a nation with more than statism Statism is very conservative. As a result, it leads to impassivity in debates regarding humanitarian interventions. ... The only challenge is that it does not fully support interventions as is seen in cosmopolitanism and internationalism. Internationalism model on the other hand corresponds to international theory. Internationalism and statist acknowledge that states are central as well as sovereign. Internationalism further focuses on how relations between states are regulated by international communal practices.3 This aspect is not well manifested in statism.Statists are greatly oppose states that that encourage good relations between member states. As a result, they don’t have feeling for war victims or nations that have witnessed serious crimes against humanity. According to internationalists, if the recipient state authorizes an intervention, they highly encourage it.Statism on the other hand does not fully welcome interventions .However, both statism and internationalism were used during the First World War and are still applicable today. In exceptional cases, statism allows interventions especially a government collapses. All the three models of human rights face major challenges. For example, they have to be approved by a national government of any country before they can be applied to any nation.Thus; the main priority in both cases is the rights the states have as far as any law is concerned4. Thereafter, the issues of human rights as far as international laws are concerned then follow later. This comparable conclusions means that there is no major difference in relation to some issues of international contexts. Cosmopolitanism is also a human right model that issued worldwide. Under this model, the international system looks keenly to the factors that affect individual members

Psychology of Violence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Psychology of Violence - Essay Example Though the article does not state Mr Clementi suffered from bullying, humiliation and invasion of privacy as a sex offense, Mr Ravi delegitimized him by taking all levels of privacy out of his hands. It is considered a sex offense because he broke the solitude Mr Clementi was after, by having the room until midnight, the intimacy of having a sexual relationship with anonymity and the reserve to decide under what terms. These four types of privacy were established by Mr Westin.(DeCew) As the police had already established that Mr Ravi had been bullying Mr Clementi since August, he will be tried for a bias crime. Behavioral Psychology is a theory that all behaviors are gained through conditioning: classical & operant. Conditioning occurs through interaction with the environment. Classical conditioning have two elements, the conditioned stimulus and the conditioned response. Operant Conditioning is the association between the behaviour and the consequence for that behaviour. From this conditioning, the learning theory was developed. Negative behaviour can be eliminated by taking away the benefit. A persons behaviour is learned by the consequences which can be external forces. His conscious is changed by the rewards he receives. Mr Ravi is an insecure young man as a new student; as psychologically needing to break his roommate; and who needs to make a place for himself in the dormitory. His name is Indian, so he has suffered prejudices for half of his life in the US. . He might also be questioning his own sexuality which could be common but not part of his own culture. Did he bully Mr Clementi because of his sexual orientation; or would he have done so to any roommate? The questions is his satisfaction in wanting to torture another individual. In putting the streaming of his encounter on the internet, was he showing his jealousy in Mr Clementis ability to perform on stage. Both acts represent the most

Life History as a method os Social Research Essay

Life History as a method os Social Research - Essay Example Choosing a candidate for my life history interview was one of the toughest decisions. As I sat on my study desk wondering who could give me a valuable insight on a society that existed more than half a century ago, I was startled by the shrill ring of the phone. It was my childhood friend who was of Indian origin .he had called to invite me over to his house as it happened to be an Indian festival and his grandma had dished out a myriad of delicacies which he wanted me to try out. And that was the moment a brilliant idea crossed my head. His grandma! Nobody could be a better subject for my interview- a different country altogether with a plethora of varied cultures and all of them in stark contrast with our own! Before I knew I was at his doorstep with my stationary, Dictaphone and artillery of questions I had framed on my way. To my disappointment, the going was not destined to be smooth. My friend's grandma is a very shy and reserved lady and she felt a bit awkward and uncomfortabl e when I approached her with my request. To start with, she just couldn't comprehend as to why someone would want to interview her and believed that she had nothing worthy enough to talk about. She also looked quite intimidated by my Dictaphone and elaborate stationary. After an hour of persuasion, pleading and begging she consented but only if I promised to safeguard her anonymity. Therefore, hereon I am going to call her "Gran". After a "warm up" session of friendly chit- chat; she gradually opened up and let me into her life story. Today, for me she was not a friend's grandmother but a woman who represented her entire community and whose words and opinions I was probably going to generalize to a whole population. I read quite bit about the plight of woman in India during yesteryears and the oppression the faced, so I decided to probe her on the issue. Gran turned 70 this summer. She was born to an average marwadi Indian family in early 1940's and raised among two younger brothers. Her childhood saw the period when India and Pakistan were undergoing a partition. She did school till about fifth grade and then was forced to drop out because her parents could not afford to send three children to school and since they felt it was more important to educate a male child , she was the obvious choice for sacrifice. Girls were at that time never really considered a permanent member of the family since they married and moved out to their husbands house, thus investing on them in any way seemed to make no sense to parents. She however is self-educating herself out of her brother's textbooks whenever she could. "I simply loved math's, I think I would have made a good teacher!" she says with a glint in her eyes. She was barely into her teenage ( which was common in 1950's) when she was married to a guy she had never seen or known and within a day her life took drastic turn - a whole new family, an unfamiliar city, a stranger she was supposed to call "husband" and spend the rest of her life with! . It was not long before it dawned upon her that her in-laws had demanded a huge amount in cash and kind to accept her as their daughter -in -law. These demands kept increasing in frequency and outrageousness and her family had no choice but to oblige because a woman abandoned by her husband and her family ha

Compare between the three models of international human rights Essay

Compare between the three models of international human rights (statist, cosmopolitan, and internationalist) based on the streng - Essay Example The major issues that these theories seek to address include civil wars, conflict prevention as well as resolution. Humanitarian interventions which have not been fully explored as far as human rights models are concerned .However; it is an area that greatly provides strong themes as far as human rights models are concerned. Statism is one of the models that are very important as far as human rights are concerned in the international regime. Under this model, it is the responsility of the nation to ensure that human rights are adhered to. This model is similar to that of internationalist and cosmopolitanism2. They both hold to the treaties of universal declaration of human rights universalism. The treaty states that all nations should ensure that the needs of their citizens are met. This model has one weakness; it is the state that takes precedence before any human right can be recognized. Never the less, statism is seen as the most appropriate as far as issues regarding politics are concerned.Statism has also resulted into stronger states harassing weaker ones.Therefore,as much as statist is an international regime that looks at the rights of citizens, internationalism and cosmopolitanism looks at the welfare of citizens of a nation with more than statism Statism is very conservative. As a result, it leads to impassivity in debates regarding humanitarian interventions. ... The only challenge is that it does not fully support interventions as is seen in cosmopolitanism and internationalism. Internationalism model on the other hand corresponds to international theory. Internationalism and statist acknowledge that states are central as well as sovereign. Internationalism further focuses on how relations between states are regulated by international communal practices.3 This aspect is not well manifested in statism.Statists are greatly oppose states that that encourage good relations between member states. As a result, they don’t have feeling for war victims or nations that have witnessed serious crimes against humanity. According to internationalists, if the recipient state authorizes an intervention, they highly encourage it.Statism on the other hand does not fully welcome interventions .However, both statism and internationalism were used during the First World War and are still applicable today. In exceptional cases, statism allows interventions especially a government collapses. All the three models of human rights face major challenges. For example, they have to be approved by a national government of any country before they can be applied to any nation.Thus; the main priority in both cases is the rights the states have as far as any law is concerned4. Thereafter, the issues of human rights as far as international laws are concerned then follow later. This comparable conclusions means that there is no major difference in relation to some issues of international contexts. Cosmopolitanism is also a human right model that issued worldwide. Under this model, the international system looks keenly to the factors that affect individual members

Life History as a method os Social Research Essay

Life History as a method os Social Research - Essay Example Choosing a candidate for my life history interview was one of the toughest decisions. As I sat on my study desk wondering who could give me a valuable insight on a society that existed more than half a century ago, I was startled by the shrill ring of the phone. It was my childhood friend who was of Indian origin .he had called to invite me over to his house as it happened to be an Indian festival and his grandma had dished out a myriad of delicacies which he wanted me to try out. And that was the moment a brilliant idea crossed my head. His grandma! Nobody could be a better subject for my interview- a different country altogether with a plethora of varied cultures and all of them in stark contrast with our own! Before I knew I was at his doorstep with my stationary, Dictaphone and artillery of questions I had framed on my way. To my disappointment, the going was not destined to be smooth. My friend's grandma is a very shy and reserved lady and she felt a bit awkward and uncomfortabl e when I approached her with my request. To start with, she just couldn't comprehend as to why someone would want to interview her and believed that she had nothing worthy enough to talk about. She also looked quite intimidated by my Dictaphone and elaborate stationary. After an hour of persuasion, pleading and begging she consented but only if I promised to safeguard her anonymity. Therefore, hereon I am going to call her "Gran". After a "warm up" session of friendly chit- chat; she gradually opened up and let me into her life story. Today, for me she was not a friend's grandmother but a woman who represented her entire community and whose words and opinions I was probably going to generalize to a whole population. I read quite bit about the plight of woman in India during yesteryears and the oppression the faced, so I decided to probe her on the issue. Gran turned 70 this summer. She was born to an average marwadi Indian family in early 1940's and raised among two younger brothers. Her childhood saw the period when India and Pakistan were undergoing a partition. She did school till about fifth grade and then was forced to drop out because her parents could not afford to send three children to school and since they felt it was more important to educate a male child , she was the obvious choice for sacrifice. Girls were at that time never really considered a permanent member of the family since they married and moved out to their husbands house, thus investing on them in any way seemed to make no sense to parents. She however is self-educating herself out of her brother's textbooks whenever she could. "I simply loved math's, I think I would have made a good teacher!" she says with a glint in her eyes. She was barely into her teenage ( which was common in 1950's) when she was married to a guy she had never seen or known and within a day her life took drastic turn - a whole new family, an unfamiliar city, a stranger she was supposed to call "husband" and spend the rest of her life with! . It was not long before it dawned upon her that her in-laws had demanded a huge amount in cash and kind to accept her as their daughter -in -law. These demands kept increasing in frequency and outrageousness and her family had no choice but to oblige because a woman abandoned by her husband and her family ha

Ozone Depletion and Global Warming Essay Example for Free

Ozone Depletion and Global Warming Essay There is no doubt that global warming is fast becoming a serious issue at this time. However, not all people are aware of the negative effects that global warming and ozone depletion can bring. They are also not aware of the fact that their day-to-day actions can contribute largely to the phenomenon. While ozone depletion and global warming is hard to deal with, there are numerous ways where people can contribute to the environment so that the situation will not become much worse than what is seen today. If people would like to help improve the environment, they should start within themselves by changing some of the ways they run the household. Recycling and reusing is a very practical thing to do especially nowadays when everything is high in terms of their cost. Recycling can decrease the amount of garbage that will be sent out to landfills. People should also choose to buy products made out of recycled materials. It is also important to conserve energy by turning appliances off when they are not in use, or by using Energy Star qualified products, or by modifying the house and using green power or installing solar panels. Spreading the word and participating in activities and programs that support the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions can also significantly help. Changing household ways can be easier compared to that of the workplace setting because there are less people to instruct and there are fewer appliances to check. Still, when working, people should always utilize office equipment such that they are only used when needed. Things that are not usually used should be powered off but things that are mostly used should not be turned off every time because constantly switching them on and off can use up more energy. Employees and companies should also make it a point to recycle and reuse their materials, especially paper. Papers should only be used for important communication or reports. Other less important things should be communicated through the Internet by email or instant messages.

Dealing With Climate Change Through Interior Design Environmental Sciences Essay

Dealing With Climate Change Through Interior Design Environmental Sciences Essay Living in discomfort because of tropical climate is not desirable. Everydays challenge in Singapore is humidity, heat, and rainfall for its location that categorized in tropical climate zone. Hence, Singapore Government especially Minister for National Development stated about Singapores approach to sustainable development because it also has connection to global warming, that is why sustainable and nature are very important nowadays. For instance, the usage of garden within buildings might be the most effective way to reduce heat and humidity. The necessity to use nature is because it gives positives changes and result to the built environment and people. This essay will conduct a topic of tropical climate and natures effect in relation with various ways how to tackle the problem and response with design. It is possible to design a  comfortable living and working environment by creating  in-between spaces to  provide relief from the tropical climate through a combination of natural and vernacular architecture elements. In this essay, author will talk about Biophilic design theory as a background that explained about the inner human to be near with nature, as one of the design elements to help and achieve in reducing humidity, heat, and deal with rainfall; in which, those three factors that make people uncomfortable in their activities. Firstly, natural elements that are involved in warm wet zone and those are to be maximally used in terms of the effect of characteristic from nature which will bring positive result for the end users. Secondly, the variety ways of tackling humidity, heat, and rainfall in tropical climate, such as vernacular architecture is the most appropriate to handle this problem. Thirdly, in-between spaces which are lacking in Singapore; meaning that more intense activities in spaces or places e.g. offices do not have enough nature inside the building which actually can help reduce stress of people from work. Lastly, tropical climate case studies that link to the issue and how those spaces are workable in tropical climate. In facing tropical climate as a central issue, the design approach can be inspired from using nature elements within certain places or spaces. The reason to use nature as part of solution is because it has qualities of positive psychological effects for human being and to some extent providing visual and spatial relief. As to enhance a better way of living in tropical area, contemporary vernacular architecture nowadays exists to adapt with surroundings. All of these are guides that may lead us to develop and aim for the best design solution in the future living. II. INTERIORSCAPE, WITH NATURE: ENHANCING THE GREEN CITY Living in nature, people will get benefit from the essence of natures effect. Besides, nature shapes the built environmental to be the ideal space for peoples demand at present time. A. The Tropical Climate The tropical climate is positioned in the equatorial belt, between 230 and -230latitude which is also known as warm wet zone. Average annual temperatures can reach a maximum of 30o C during the day and 24o C at night while thermal comfort for people is between 26o C-27o C (Anon, p2). Most importantly, tropic area is distinguished by its region characteristics: high levels in humidity, heat or solar radiation in dry season and rainfall in rainy season. During rainy seasons, the level of humidity also increases. Due to high level of humidity, appropriate openings and ventilation are needed to utilize the airflow so the evaporation will increase. Another element is roof as a shelter plays an important role to be shading and keep the inside cool from the heat while it also becomes a protection during rainy periods. Tropical Climate in Singapore Context Singapore is one of the countries in South East Asia region that is located in tropical area. The most concern for Singapore is to deal with the unstable climate of heat, rainfall, and humidity since geographically it lies along the equator line. It has become everydays challenge for Singapore to deal with tropical climate. But, it is no longer new problem for people who live in tropical climate face this kind of weather every single day. Furthermore, this condition worsens most of the stressful working people and uncomfortable weather like heat may reduce their energy. Technology innovations such as air conditioners (AC) help people to achieve thermal comfort and they become reliance to AC but it is not the only solution. For over the years, Singapore has achieved itself to be a green city and currently Singapore government especially Minister for National Development, Mr. Tan in his speech (2010) stated about Singapores approach to develop more on sustainable environment. At the moment, Bedok Court HDB (Hosing Development and Board) is one of an example how Singapore deals with this tropical climate issue. B. Nature as Design Elements to Achieve the Aim in Reducing Discomfort in Tropical Climate Can we deal in a better way to response this issue? Nature is one of the solutions to help reduce heat in tropical climate. As written above, to reduce fatigue and stress which are caused by tropic weather, the importance to use nature is become fundamental, since contact with nature helps to heal and recover health, increases concentration and memory. Viewing nature can produce a rapid improvement in body restoration both psychologically and physiologically. The exposure of nature is purposed to influence the levels of activities and energy for it draws people to a positive changes. We feel and assume that the impact of heat always give disadvantages, while, the approach in tropical climate is to minimise the heat and also take advantage from it. The benefits from nature elements can be utilized as maximum as possible since they produce positive effects to peoples mind and body. This means, the essence of nature in this context is not only providing the built environment with aesthetic factor. 1. Biophilic Design Theory The reason to use nature is because it has positive effects psychologically and physiologically to the sense of human beings. It has a close relationship with a theory called Biophilia. The term of Biophilia is founded by E. O. Wilson and this theory is based on the inner of human being that essentially needs to be close with nature. Based on Biophilic Design, Kellert (2008, p3) stated that biophilia can be defined as an understanding of the inherent human affinity to affiliate with natural systems and processes, especially life and life-like features of the nonhuman environment. It is proved that people tends to depend on environmental features because it enhances human physically and mentally. Those environmental features can be described such as light, sound, odor, wind, weather, water, vegetation, animals, and landscapes. There are six biophilic design elements: environmental features, natural shapes and forms, natural patterns and processes, light and space, place-based relationship, and evolved human-nature relationship. (Kellert 2008, p6) 2. Natural Elements With that background of the importance of nature for people, this essay will discuss on the first element of biophilic which is the environmental features that consist of three key elements of nature: greeneries or plants, water, and natural light. The Essence of Greeneries, Water and Natural Light There are three main natural elements that are involved and become necessary for tropical climate in order to reduce humidity and heat as the aspects of the tropical climate. Firstly, greeneries; it has become popular and also important to have plants or gardens within buildings. Essentially, greeneries become necessary because they provide visual and spatial relief for human beings. In addition, there are some positive psychological effects of greeneries toward human beings. It effectively reduces stress, decreases mental fatigue, gives relaxations for it is good for eye relief, restores mental clarity, enhances comfort, and improves or increases sense of well being (Kellert 2008, p7). Secondly, water that produces positive physiological effect and always be the most basic human needs. Water is able to lower blood pressure, relax tension-filled muscles, ease headaches and also cure aches and pains. Water insertion to a built environment provides and enhances the quality of human life. Furthermore, water in motion such as waterfall, cascade, and a pond with circulation will add strong value to the biophilic design attraction. Other applications of water elements can be contributed in roof gardens, green roof, interior pools or basins (as a soft boundary to blur the distinction between inside and outside), exterior water gardens, and water cascade (Kellert 2008, p7). In a warm-hot climate, water is an absolute necessity. It remains cooler because water heats up slower than the land (Trocme 2006, p11). This means, the built environment which located alongside water will be cooler than one is surrounded by land. Water, you have no taste, no color, no odor, you cannot be defined, you are relished while ever mysterious. Not necessary to life, but rather life itself, you fill us with gratification that exceeds the delight of the senses. Of the riches that exist in the world, you are the rarest and also the most delicate: you, water, are the proud divinity. (Antoine De Sant Exupery, p43) Thirdly, sunlight or natural light which comes from solar radiation; the quality of its illumination and colours from light can affect mood and energy level while it also good for maintaining health. In Kellerts statement (2008, p11), natural light is preferred in contributing to improve health, productivity, and well being in a built environment. Besides, the effect of natural light also provides sense of openness. People prefer and depend on natural light for its ability in terms of giving visual acuity to satisfy human needs in physical, emotional, and intellectual aspects (Kellert 2008, p7). Direct sunlight in tropical area is not preferable, it might become our enemy. But of course it does help us in providing the advantages, so controlling the sunlight is necessary to make it desirable. Light draws people, as it does flowers, but our need for light must be balanced with keeping cool. (Trocme 2006, p11) Understanding these elements and factors may help the designers to create and built the controlled environment to adopt with the tropical climate. The prime aim is to minimise and prevent the discomfort that caused by the tropical climate in order to create a better living environment. C. Variety Ways of Tackling Tropical Climate (Heat, Humidity, and Rainfall) There are various ways in tackling tropical climate especially with vernacular architecture. Some requirements of treatments and techniques are needed in an appropriate way to tackle the tropical weather. 1. Vernacular Architecture In the book Contemporary Vernacular, according to Correa (1998, p10); the term of vernacular can be described as the notion of the building that has relation to the environmental contexts and involving society as a whole. The built forms in vernacular architecture are adapted to fulfil specifics needs regarding climate and culture, existing materials in order to accommodate the ways of life and values in producing them. In Singapore context, because of its multicultural circumstances, it may influence the local architecture. As Singapore was a British colony, historical buildings are mainly influenced by European styles. In the other hand, this small country was known as a free international port, other races such as Chinese, Malay, and Indian are also involved in influencing the local Singapore architecture. Not only cultures that shaped the vernacular architecture in Singapore but the tropical climate also determined the built environment. In other words, the local vernacular architecture is not originally come from one aspect but is combination with other aspects. These are some influences of vernacular architecture in Singapore which classified by Yeang (1987 ,p30-31) : Malay Rural Vernacular Fig.1 Typical Malay vernacular house based on Malaysian tradition, consists of atap roof, timber panels with floor raised above from the ground level. The raised floor is purposed to provide tranquillity because in the rural ancient times, they used to live in a village setting where animals might attack their houses. So, it is created in such a way for protection from ground moisture, flood and animals, ventilation, and shade. Moorish-influenced institutional building Fig. 2 Mostly the examples are the Istanas of Malay Sultanate which had larger scale and it is influenced by European and Middle Eastern countries. Dutch influences Fig. 3 Christ-Church and stadthuys are the most obvious examples of Dutch influences since most of Dutch are Christians. The straits eclectic Fig. 4 Chinese shophouses are best described this style. It emphasize in ornamentation in their facade treatment. Anglo-Indian influences Fig. 5 The local Anglo Indian style has motifs with Sino Malay influences in terms of unglazed half-around tiles and the serambi. In local context, the most appropriate of vernacular architecture in tropic area is the Malay Rural vernacular since it has the same environment and climate with Singapore. But, Malay rural vernacular cannot be called as a set style because it depends on the local circumstances, situation and environmental context that eventually created in a way to meet the specific needs of the built environment. Therefore, this built environment can be held as an approach in order to fulfil the requirement in local context. The existence of vernacular architecture in tropic area can be a guideline in developing the suitable built environment for people. Through fundamental guidelines of tropical vernacular architecture, influences from other cultures and weighing the environmental context in the same amount, that is where a critical approach means for vernacular architecture in Singapore. The responsive design to the climate, local context and environment are the key points to aim the built environment. Though Singapore does not have a fixed style, meaning of vernacular architecture in Singapore is may be more important to depend on the characteristic of a place and environment. In tropical climate, roofs are more important than walls. Roof shaped is one of the vernacular features for thermal control. There are few types that mostly used for tropical area: pitched roof shaped, high jack roof, ventilated roof, and deep roof overhangs. The main function of roof is to allow the breeze penetration in order to utilize the air flow, reduce humidity, and make the space inside cooler. First type is pitched roof shaped, usually with large overhanging eaves give protection from the direct sunlight and rain. High jack roof, usually used by typical shophouses that has gabled roof segment is mainly functioned as shelters and the small opening which separate from the main roof enhances cross-ventilation to reduce heat from solar radiation (Yeang 1987, p24). Ventilated roof is also effective for removing heat by cross ventilation. Besides ventilated, it usually combined with pitched roof shaped with wide overhang so it also able to shade walls. Deep roof overhangs with ventilation grilles above eye level protected the built environment in terms of sun shading and also allow air flows. Fig. 6 Types of Roofs Pitched Roof Jack Roof Ventilated Roof Deep Roof Overhangs Knowing these several basic types of roof shaped can lead designers to create the built environment in a contemporary context. Types of roof are invented in many ways to be the solution and improve the living environment in tropical area. Besides, in local context roofs shapes are mostly influenced from other countries either from the colony (British) or the countries which have the same climate condition as in Singapore. The applications can be seen in traditional Chinese shophouse design in Malaysia with a key feature of the continuous covered veranda-way in order to minimise the discomfort of tropical climate. Another principles are to use internal air-well that allows light, adequate amount of openness in the interior space with high ceilings and overlapping- roofs to reduce heat radiation.(Yeang 1987, p22-23) Types of roof are not the only way to tackle the discomfort from tropical climate. Openings are another aspect which is crucial for cross ventilation. Besides, air flow pattern is determined by openings because air has to circulate. Therefore the intensity of using openings is important to design a good controlled of built environment. Louvered or jalousie openings are mostly used because this system directs air to the living areas. Tight area without or less openings will give more humidity and heat. Separated and scattered layout or forms of space are purposely used for air flow. For example: house in Buzen, Japan that is formed in scattered and individual boxes. The design intention in separated layout of each functional room is to have maximum cross ventilation and enhanced with windows in each rooms. D. Lack of In-Between Space in Singapore Although Singapore already has adequate amount of greeneries around the city, it still lacks of in-between spaces in terms of inclusion of nature to the interior. However, there is an example which provides a good solution to make more comfortable living in tropical area. Good application of vernacular aspect and nature can be found in Bedok Court. Compared to other high rise residential, the difference of Bedok Court is the big supply of balconies and spaces that specially planned for plants which placed in-between living units; so called semi open forecourts. Cheng Jian Fenn was the designer of Bedok Court and the inspiration was from the rural village lifestyle whereby people live in a relaxed atmosphere and harmonious environment. But, due to the land scarcity, Cheng strategically planned each dwelling unit with garden as a whole to provide sense of landed house. (Lim 1998, p63-64) Creatively, his intention in the design is to maximise the land area with the system of high rise building yet each unit will own the garden. Fig.7 Bedok Court Fig. 8 The Balcony Through surveys, Bedok Court shows satisfying result. With high supply of garden in each unit, the semi open spaces is preferred as the most comfortable spaces among the other functions in units such as swimming pool, the balcony, the lobby, the lift, and the interior of the unit. (Bay 2006, p66) The usage of garden helps the spaces to improve the thermal comfort condition in terms of the weather become slightly cooler because of the plants. In other words, it is encouraged to increase the green areas to get a lower ambient temperature. In-between space has potential or possibility to be a break space (to be developed) In-between spaces can function as place where activity and free spaces joined (to be developed) E. Tropical Climate Case Studies 1. The Architects House in Sri Lanka by Geoffrey Bawa (need further research) a. emphasize on openings and light-well on each room b. use of greeneries or plants inside the house 2. House at Blair Road in Singapore by Richard Ho Architects (need further research) a. evokes comfort with air-well for light and ventilation III. CONCLUSION