Philosophy of Fear

Philosophy of Fear In the pure state of nature, all humans are of equal mind and body, meaning that no one has a distinct advantage or disadvantage against another. The state of nature is also referred to as the state of war in which every man will fight and try to protect what they deem as theirs. Thomas Hobbes, a seventeenth century philosopher, described this as bellum omnium contra onmes, meaning the war of all against all. Due to everyone attempting to fight everyone else to stay alive in a pure state of nature, societies and civilizations cannot form.So is there a way to keep the peace and let mankind develop into its full potential? Hobbes uses an idea of giving up individual powers to one person or an assembly of men as in the form of sovereignty. The sovereignty will be able enforce the peace with unlimited power. The sovereignty acquires these powers as individuals give up particular freedoms. The extent of forfeited rights is to a level such as permitted by everyone in the society and the individuals must be tolerable of the sovereignty still possessing these rights.If individuals wanted to keep all of their given rights, then they would maintain rights to kill, steal, and lie. These are three severe issues when trying to form a peaceful world. If these rights are given up by individuals to sovereignty then a society can begin to form. Once the society begins to form the sovereignty will make decisions based on the best interest of the people that have joined together. For cultures to exist you need to not doubt every person’s actions and have faith that they will honor whatever contract they have agreed to.The sovereignty has a contract with the people to protect them and the people must keep the contract of giving up their rights to the sovereignty. The people also have a contract with each other to surrender the same rights to the sovereignty. Without this reliance on your fellow men, there can be no justice and therefore no morality in the society. The most important responsibility of the sovereignty is to make known the rules of the society so as the individuals understand what they may and may not do. If these laws are not in place then the society will fall back into a state of war because of the unavoidable fight over scarce resources.Hobbes’s main reason for giving up your rights to an authority is to escape the state of war. Because of the equality of man, where everyone is capable of killing another, there is no sense of security and you could be confronted at any point in time. These actions of people are not just for sin but for personal gain so without a government guiding the way, individuals will motivate themselves to do as they please no matter who it affects. This means that the sovereignty is there to lead the way and force people to act for the good of society and not just the good of themselves.An example of this would be if a person wanted to steal food from a grocery market the government w ould need to have a deterring force to stop the individual because losing that food means the whole society no longer has access to it but rather just the individual. The force used by the sovereignty is what keeps the contract, made by the individuals giving up their rights, from breaking. In a state of nature the fear of the other party not keeping up their end of the agreement is what keeps people from making said agreements but when you have a punishment from a higher authority it allows there to be a safety net.The sovereignty is there to maintain peace and penalize those looking to disturb this balance of power. Hobbes’s idea of a person with unlimited power is almost as if he is saying there should be living god among society. If this living god can do no wrong in individual’s eyes and maintains the peace among them, then society will not revert to a state of war. Hobbes uses this idea of fear to break through the state of nature and compel people to be peaceful within the society created. Only through fear comes peace and morality. Philosophy of Fear Philosophy of Fear In the pure state of nature, all humans are of equal mind and body, meaning that no one has a distinct advantage or disadvantage against another. The state of nature is also referred to as the state of war in which every man will fight and try to protect what they deem as theirs. Thomas Hobbes, a seventeenth century philosopher, described this as bellum omnium contra onmes, meaning the war of all against all. Due to everyone attempting to fight everyone else to stay alive in a pure state of nature, societies and civilizations cannot form.So is there a way to keep the peace and let mankind develop into its full potential? Hobbes uses an idea of giving up individual powers to one person or an assembly of men as in the form of sovereignty. The sovereignty will be able enforce the peace with unlimited power. The sovereignty acquires these powers as individuals give up particular freedoms. The extent of forfeited rights is to a level such as permitted by everyone in the society and the individuals must be tolerable of the sovereignty still possessing these rights.If individuals wanted to keep all of their given rights, then they would maintain rights to kill, steal, and lie. These are three severe issues when trying to form a peaceful world. If these rights are given up by individuals to sovereignty then a society can begin to form. Once the society begins to form the sovereignty will make decisions based on the best interest of the people that have joined together. For cultures to exist you need to not doubt every person’s actions and have faith that they will honor whatever contract they have agreed to.The sovereignty has a contract with the people to protect them and the people must keep the contract of giving up their rights to the sovereignty. The people also have a contract with each other to surrender the same rights to the sovereignty. Without this reliance on your fellow men, there can be no justice and therefore no morality in the society. The most important responsibility of the sovereignty is to make known the rules of the society so as the individuals understand what they may and may not do. If these laws are not in place then the society will fall back into a state of war because of the unavoidable fight over scarce resources.Hobbes’s main reason for giving up your rights to an authority is to escape the state of war. Because of the equality of man, where everyone is capable of killing another, there is no sense of security and you could be confronted at any point in time. These actions of people are not just for sin but for personal gain so without a government guiding the way, individuals will motivate themselves to do as they please no matter who it affects. This means that the sovereignty is there to lead the way and force people to act for the good of society and not just the good of themselves.An example of this would be if a person wanted to steal food from a grocery market the government w ould need to have a deterring force to stop the individual because losing that food means the whole society no longer has access to it but rather just the individual. The force used by the sovereignty is what keeps the contract, made by the individuals giving up their rights, from breaking. In a state of nature the fear of the other party not keeping up their end of the agreement is what keeps people from making said agreements but when you have a punishment from a higher authority it allows there to be a safety net.The sovereignty is there to maintain peace and penalize those looking to disturb this balance of power. Hobbes’s idea of a person with unlimited power is almost as if he is saying there should be living god among society. If this living god can do no wrong in individual’s eyes and maintains the peace among them, then society will not revert to a state of war. Hobbes uses this idea of fear to break through the state of nature and compel people to be peaceful within the society created. Only through fear comes peace and morality.

Experiences of Migration

Military University Experiences Of Migration For hundreds of years migration has been the topic of discussion as individuals or mass groups have migrated away from their homelands In search of alternate residency elsewhere throughout the world. Much like today, the 19th century migratory have been faced with a plethora of different types of reactions by their newfound territories Including both positive and negative In nature. Many Individuals exhibited numerous viewpoints Including the various governments who understood the advantages tot immigration.Immigration certainly holds the potential to live a more lucrative elite In another part of the world as most immigrants enjoyed the venous employment opportunities and enhanced lifestyles. Although some immigrants traveled with their families. There were Individuals who set out to find a new life while leaving their loved ones behind. In one such case, and individual by the name of Taffeta Broker. ‘Ã'Ÿaka was left behind in Wars aw Poland as her husband sent out to find a new existence. Unfortunately for Taffeta. Re husband never returns as we read in her correspondence to him. 893. Dear husband; up to the present I live with Rabbinic. I am not very Well satisfied, perhaps because was accustomed to live for So many years quietly, With you alone. And today you are at one and Of the world and I at the Other. So when I kick at strange corners don't know what to do from longing and regret _ You wont forget me, that you Will remain noble as you have been I have only the sort Of the friends think that I own thousands and from time to time Sorenson comes to me, skins me to lend her a dozen rubles. 1894. P to the present I thought and rolled that you would still come back to Warsaw, but since you write that you will come I comply with the will of God and with your will. I shall now, the days and weeks until take me to America Such a sad elite ! Go almost to nobody, tort as long as PU were in Warsaw everything was d eferent. Formally we had friends, and everybody was glad to see us, while now, if I go to anybody they are afraid need something from them and they show me beforehand and indifferent face (Hunt et al. 012, 778). Forward and left loved ones behind.For the ones that did follow their loved ones, their experiences were that of excitement, apprehension and anxiousness as these immigrants were met with both open arms and rejection as the population receiving the immigrant's viewed these people as deserters and without patriotism. The following: gives us insight of the feelings from one immigrant as he is traveling to Im bound for young America, farewell old Scandinavia. Vive had my America. Fill of cold and toil, all for the love of mother soil. You poets with your rocks and rills can stay in starve-on words, no-frills.They are, out west, a man breaths free, while here one slaves, a tired bee, gathering honey filled the hive of wise old rulers, on us they thrive. In toil we over before th eir thrones while they take to slumber like lazy drones. Drunk with our nectar they've set us affright, but opportunity has knocked, and will take our flight (Hunt et al. 2012, 779). It is clear, that at least for some, immigrants left their homelands in search of freedom along with economic stability hat they felt could not be provided in their own country.

IT PROJECT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

IT PROJECT - Essay Example In order to insure that the tennis club runs in a smooth fashion, and to insure that the business owner has minimal difficulties in the beginning and onward, it is fitting to recommend to the owner of this newly found business the technology that will be the best fit and demonstrate why this is the case, which is the sole objective of this report. The primary piece of technology that is highly recommended is a top notch computer that contains optimal specifications. The reason that such a piece of technology is recommended is that if a computer is top notch and has outstanding specifications, it will not only run quickly, which is important in today’s fast paced society, this computer will be able to run many tasks and peripherals all at one time. In a world where multitasking is common, this is very important. One such Computer that fits these requirements is the HP Pro 3010 small form factor PC. With an Intel ® Pentium ® Dual-Core E5300 Processor that runs at an ultra fast speed of 2.60 GHz, 3GB DDR2 RAM, and a 320GB Hard Drive, this computer will enable the business professional to not only complete tasks at the speed of lightening, but they will also be able to store large amounts of data without having to run out of disk space. This particular desktop PC comes with Windows Professional; however, should the bus iness professional prefer XP Professional for the sake of familiarity, this is possible to obtain, as this business PC comes with downgrading rights (Misco.co.uk, 2010). For the full details on this business desktop PC, refer to Appendix 2. Along with a high quality computer, there needs to be a printer of the same caliber. This printer must possess the capability of printing off documents quickly, and the printer must also possess a number of functions that will enable staff to design fliers, posters, and business cards in an effective and efficient manner. One printer that

Read info Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Read info - Essay Example Multiculturalism is also related to the global shifts of power, population, and culture in the era of globalization. Globalization is transforming the previously homogenous cities into complex meeting grounds for different groups thus challenging the previous cultural system to accommodate this diversity. Multiculturalism is sometimes also used as a substitute for the term race, as it is losing its former credibility (Jay 1). Multiculturalism is the latest American social reform and it is dedicated towards social equality. It has three major forms, which are Pluralism, relativism, and racialism. The three major forms of multiculturalism are all of American origin, but they have different visions of man and society (Gottfredson 7). Multiculturalism with respect to education shows that some form of change or reform has to be established in the educational curriculum. The selection in a particular country, province, or city of the language to be taught or to be used as a medium of instr uction is an important aspect of education and national planning in the multicultural society. It is also important to define goals and objectives as carefully as possible. No matter what type of approach is taken there is a necessity for continuing formative feedback to inform the language policy and language practice. This type of practice is however lacking in many American school districts (Reynolds and Lambert 74). There are different implications of multiculturalism in the workplace with respect to every individual. The organization commits itself to individuals to enhance or develop the individual’s commitment towards the organization. The individual strengths and needs may be distributed differently by race, gender, religion, etc. but these strengths and needs vary in the capacity of individuals. Members of group are not alike. The difference between every individual with each other is more than the difference between the groups to which they belong. This is the reaso n why they should be treated on their individual merits rather than treating them as the representatives of some group. Group membership may be an important part of one’s identity but they cannot define the attribute of a healthy individual. Some organizations give importance to the group membership but they are wrong in the sense that it give rise to the majority opinion that individuals rights and opinions are dependent on group membership thus giving rise to stereotypes (Gottfredsson 15-16). Education is required for managing cultural diversity in the school and workplace. The challenges are to create a constructive multiculturalism that is supporting, educating, and uniting the people rather than doing the opposite (Gottfredson 15). Workers in a multicultural environment may not share the strengths, lifestyle and personal goals, but they work towards a common goal. For instance in multinational corporations cultural differences do exist but they are accommodated for the o rganization to function. The cultural differences between the workers has to be by setting some common goals in the sphere of production, marketing, sales, and service goals and also by enhancing the cross-cultural communication. The probabilities of multiculturalism doing good in business is less unless the workers of such business is committed to serve some larger shared

In what ways did the Reformation influence the formation of national Essay

In what ways did the Reformation influence the formation of national identity in Europe and North America - Essay Example With this view, Wolfe (2003, p. 24) notes that the vital moment in the formation of identity came when individuals came to view amorphous mass of people as sharing a common history, destiny, culture and interest. In the past few decades, the examination of the history of religion has shifted from the ghetto of clerical history to which it had been long impounded (Veer & Lehmann, 1999, p. 21). Having looked at the general state of identity in the European countries, it is imperative to focus attention on the relationship between reformation and national identity in the European and North American nations. In reference to Arnold (1999), Reformation is the religious insurgency that occurred in the Western church in 16th century. Martin Luther and John Calvin were its greatest leaders. It had far reaching political, social and economic effects and was the primary cause of Protestantism, one of the three primary divisions of Christianity. Meyer (2009) denotes that this revolution aspired to reform the practices and beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church. However, the revolution’s religious elements were complemented by political leaders who aimed at extending their supremacy and control to the detriment of the church. This upsurge brought an end to the unity inflicted by medieval Christianity and, according to many historians, marked the start of a new era (Meyer, 2009). A deterioration of the old order was by now in progress in North Europe, as verified by the materialization of flourishing new cities and a resolute middle class. The efforts and determination of the leaders of reformation resulted to the creation of new protestant churches (Clark, 2000, p. 251). The world of the medieval Roman Catholic Church from which the reformers aggressed was an intricate. Over the centuries, the church, especially the papacy, had been involved in the political life of Europe. This had resulted to manipulations which prompted the reformers to revolt. The Catholic Church c ontrolled the economy of majority of Europena countries and imposed heavy taxes on the people (Meyer, 2009). Luther saw that Catholic was a way of manipulating the people and driving them away from God. In 1517, Martin Luther, posted a document referred to as the 95 theses. This document outlined reasons by why he believed that Catholicism was completely defective (Clark, 2000, p. 253). Martin Luther’s stand transformed some parts of the Roman Catholic set of guidelines and numerous other practices. He insisted on the point that the Bible and not the pope, was the main way to recognize God’s Word. The pope was an extremely worldly figure and held supremacy in the Catholic Church. For this reason, Arnold (1999) asserts that this point raised eyebrows across the continent. Martin Luther felt that the bible was the most significant aspect in spirituality which the Christians should abide to other than the orders of the pope. He felt that this was an unfair to the true sig nificance of salvation. When Luther criticized the Catholic Church, not everyone accepted him as a savior of religion. At first, he only appealed to the barbarians and other lower class people. No one in the religion had acknowledged the importance of the document written by Luther, though it would be one of the most significant documents to ever be written in history (Meyer, 2009). Many public figures wanted to excommunicate him. The church did not want to involve him

Mandated Curriculum vs. Developmentally Appropriate Practices Essay

Mandated Curriculum vs. Developmentally Appropriate Practices - Essay Example While DAP allows children to solve their own problems as they are encouraged to engage themselves, it also helps in reducing learning gaps (Gestwicki 32). The processing capabilities of the children’s minds are also improved because they are encouraged to engage in the areas that they are most comfortable with thus improving creativity (Shipley). For the level of kindergarten, I feel that using textbook-based curriculum is not necessary. This is because textbook-based curriculum is restricted on the topics and areas that should be learnt. This therefore limits the scope of learning denying the children an opportunity to experiment, which is very important especially during the developmental stage. In addition, this mode does not favor the literacy skills of the gifted children because they are steered to a different direction away from their areas of expertise. As a recommendation, the mode of learning that encourages literacy development is the eclectic homeschooling (Bess). A schooling environment that provides an opportunity to teach is very important since the parent gets to pick the approaches to use when teaching the child. Bess, Beth W. "What Kind of Curriculum Should You Use? | Home Educators Association of Virginia." Home Educators Association of Virginia. n.d. Web. 10 Aug. 2014. http://heav.org/basic-info/gifted/what-kind-of-curriculum-should-you-use/ "Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)† National Association for the Education of Young Children NAEYC. n.d. Web. 08 Aug. 2014. http://www.naeyc.org/DAP Shipley, Tisha. "Early Childhood Education: Implementing Developmentally Appropriate Practices into Literacy Instruction - Whole Child Education." Whole Child Education. 22 Jan 2014. Web. 10 Aug. 2014.

Jesus & Mohammed Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Jesus & Mohammed Paper - Essay Example In a way, both have presented themselves as messengers of God who came to bring message of hope to the world. However, they differ in the way they presented their messages. Jesus came with full authority as the son of God, to win the world on his side as a representative of God. Mohammed came to deliver the news of God on earth and was not representing God. The differences in teachings have resulted to differences between Christianity and Muslims. Life History Jesus Christ and Prophet Mohammed Jesus was born six hundred years before Prophet Mohammed. He was born of a Virgin Mary and had no biological father. He had no family unlike Mohammed who had married several wives (Hafez.et.al, 2000). During the birth of Jesus, the shepherds were visited by an angel. The angel directed them to the place of birth in Bethlehem, where they took presents to him. It was an extraordinary event which brought people from different parts of the world to witness the birth of the spiritual king. His birth was of significance to the human race because he had come to bring salvation to mankind. On the other hand, the birth of Prophet Mohammed brought favor upon his nurse Halima. He was born during a period of famine but his nurse received abundant favor and her harvest was bumpers. Even her animals produced a lot of milk. The visitors who came to see prophet Mohamed received healing (Hafez.et.al, 2000). ... For example, Jesus is said to have healed many sick people, converted water into wine, fed five thousand people with five loaves of bread and two pieces of fish among other wonders. Jesus taught people how to humble themselves and worship God. He recruited his followers and trained them to spread the gospel to the entire world by preaching the salvation of God. Similarly, Prophet Mohammed introduced Islamic religion on earth. He established his followers and taught them the way of Allah. He taught people how to live righteous life according to the doctrines of Allah. Jesus taught his followers to practice kindness, mercy and love as a way of defeating their enemies. He taught his followers to uphold sanctity of life and respect for God through loving their enemies (Hafez.et.al, 2000). He emphasized on the need of forgiveness of sins and tolerance for one another. According to his teachings, Jesus told his followers never to take revenge against those who wrong them. Mohammed taught h is followers to safeguard their religion through whatever means they could. Jesus was son of God, while Mohammed was a representative of Allah. Jesus death was through crucifixion by the Jews who accused him of profaning the name of God by proclaiming to be the son of God (Hafez.et.al, 2000). Though he died and was buried, he resurrected and ascended to heaven and is said to be seated with his father at His throne. As for Mohammed, he died in the presence of Aisha his wife. Impact of Jesus and Mohammed Death on their Religion The death of Mohammed caused great bewilderment among his followers. This is because; there was no prior arrangement on who would take over the leadership after his death. Two factions the Shia and the Sunni

Are female suicide bombers rational actors Research Paper

Are female suicide bombers rational actors - Research Paper Example The major advantage of suicide bombing attack is the accuracy and precision in conducting secret missions. Under normal circumstances, nobody would like to sacrifice their lives for any kind of missions; however the influence of fundamentalism and patriotism is getting increased day by day and because of that many people come forward to sacrifice their lives for safeguarding their traditions, culture and beliefs. Even though all types of suicide bomber attacks are difficult to resist, female suicide bombing attacks seem to be the most difficult type of attacks as far as preventive measures are concerned. Genetically and historically, it was believed that males were more aggressive in nature whereas females were more of peace loving nature. However, the above belief or theory seems to be less popular now because of the readiness of current females in taking part in risky missions and activities. As per some of the recent reports available from states like Iraq, Palestine, Sri Lanka etc, the number of female suicide bombers is increasing day by day. â€Å"While arguing about why women fight, many believe that these women are yet other victims in the hands of ruthless men while others emphasize the seriousness of a particular conflict in which even women are driven towards taking up arms, seen as a last resort in the eyes of many†. In short, there are different viewpoints about the reasons why females are increasingly participating in suicide bombing attacks.... Some people argue that suicide bombing attacks in general and female suicide bombing attacks in particular are motivated by irrational motives. However, many others believe that strong rational motives are behind every female suicide bombing attacks. This paper argues that female suicide bombers are rational actors and they engage in terrorist activities not because of the influence of any external agents alone, but because of their own instincts and judgements. Religious extremism is cited as the major reason for increasing female suicide attacks by many of the sociologists and politicians. It is because of the fact that most of the female suicide bombers are from Muslim community. In countries like Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc Muslim female suicide bombers are causing big problems and headaches to Israelis and Americans. Jihad or sacred war against nonbelievers is accepted as a tradition by many of the Muslim militant groups. At the same time it should be noted that jihad is m ostly taking place in countries under some kind of foreign occupation. The occupation of Israelis in Palestine and Americans in Iraq and Afghanistan can be cited as the best examples for the above belief. In other words, foreign occupation seems to be one of the major reasons for increased number of suicide attacks. Since women participation in modern social and political activities are increasing day by day, it is difficult for them to stay away from helping male community in their efforts to fight against all kind of foreign occupations. Female suicide bombers are thus utilized for pressurizing foreign occupiers to withdraw their troops from their land by the militant groups- in that respect; it is not an irrational activity,

The Impact of 2008 Financial Crisis on UK's Cross Border Mergers Dissertation

The Impact of 2008 Financial Crisis on UK's Cross Border Mergers - Dissertation Example II.2 Cross Border Mergers as a Mode of Entry in a Foreign Market †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 12 II.3 Cross Border Merger as a Value Creating Strategy .. 17 II.4 Impact of Financial Crisis in the Field of Investment Through Cross Border Mergers in UK †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 20 III. Research Methodology †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦.. 24 IV. Research Findings and Analysis †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 28 V. Conclusion and Recommendations †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 39 References †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 42 – 46 Chapter I – Introd uction A merger is a business process by means of which, two or additional number of companies can pool their business assets and form a single organization. In general, the stocks of the parent companies’ are given up. Instead, the stock of a new company is issued. For instance, when the Daimler-Benz and Chrysler merged, both the companies stopped to exist and in their place Daimler-Chrysler was formed. Cross border mergers are those mergers wherein the involved companies are set up in different countries. Over the years, this type of merger comprises of a growing percentage of all the mergers. In general, cross border mergers can happen through either inward cross border mergers or outward cross border mergers. In an inward cross border merger, the entire or parts of domestic companies are put up for sale to overseas investors. This often results to inward movement of capital. In the case of an outward cross border merger, domestic companies tend to purchase the entire or s egments of foreign companies. This often results to an outward flow of capital (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Economic Analysis and... The findings of this research will provide insight of a merger as a business process by means of which, two or additional number of companies can pool their business assets and form a single organization. In general, the stocks of the parent companies’ are given up. Instead, the stock of a new company is issued. For instance, when the Daimler-Benz and Chrysler merged, both the companies stopped to exist and in their place Daimler-Chrysler was formed. Cross border mergers are those mergers wherein the involved companies are set up in different countries. Over the years, this type of merger comprises of a growing percentage of all the mergers. In general, cross border mergers can happen through either inward cross border mergers or outward cross border mergers. In an inward cross border merger, the entire or parts of domestic companies are put up for sale to overseas investors. This often results to inward movement of capital. In the case of an outward cross border merger, domes tic companies tend to purchase the entire or segments of foreign companies. Cross-border mergers are a very significant occurrence in the global economy. In fact, cross-border mergers encompass more than 50% of all the foreign direct investment that is taking place around the world (Gugler et al. 2003). In most cases, companies enter into a cross border merger activities for the following reasons: (1) to intensify the company’s position in the global markets; (2) expand the business; (3) get hold of other company’s complementary resources; and (5) to improve the company’s efficiency in the global markets.

Top management do not really have control over strategic direction to Essay

Top management do not really have control over strategic direction to the extent that the design lens suggests. Critically discuss - Essay Example As Michael Porter (1972) opines that core of general management is strategy which he elaborates as: "-------developing and communicating the company's unique position, making trade offs, and forging fit among activities". Strategic position is based on customers' needs, customers' accessibility or the variety of a company's products and services. The definitions of strategy, varied in nature, depth and coverage, offer us a glimpse of the complexity involved in understanding this daunting, yet interesting and challenging concept. For many companies and most of the time, a single strategy is not only inadequate but also inappropriate. The need is for multiple strategies at different levels. Segregated units, known as profit centers for strategic business units (SBU). A complementary concept to the SBU, valid for the external environment of a company, is a strategic business area (SBA). There are various levels such as organizational and strategic levels. Corporate level strategy is ove rreaching plan of action covering the various function performed by different SBU'S. Apart from these levels, occasionally companies plan at some other levels and often set strategies at a level higher than the corporate level. These are called societal strategies. Corporate and Business level strategies derive their rationale from the societal strategy. Societal strategies are manifest in the form of vision and mission statement, while functional and operational strategies take the shape of functional and operational implementation, respectively. Role of top management: Now to implement strategies at various levels various level managers have to do the conscious decision-making. Decision-making is the most important function of any manager. Strategic decision making is the prominent task of the top management. The difference lies in the levels at which they operate. While decision-making pertains to all managerial functions, strategic decision making largely relates to the responsibilities of the Top management. Strategic tasks are by their very nature complex and varied. Decision-making in performing strategic tasks is, therefore, an extremely difficult, complicated and at times, intriguing and enigmatic process. In the process of strategic management the basic thrust of strategic decision-making is to make a choice regarding the courses of action to adopt. The fundamental strategic decision relates to the choice of a mission. With regard to objective setting, the top management is faced with alternatives regarding the diffe rent yardstick to measure performance. Finally, at the level of choosing a strategy, the top management chooses from among a number of strategic alternatives in order to adopt one specific course of action, which would make the company achieve its objectives and realize its mission. Apart from the fundamental decisional choice, as pointed above, there are numerous occasions when the top management has to make important strategic decisions. Environmental threats and opportunities are abundant; that the top management focuses its attention only a few of those. Likewise, there are many company strengths and weaknesses; the top management considers only a limited member at any given time. With regard to resource

The Marketing Environment Essay Example for Free

The Marketing Environment Essay The marketing environment surrounds and impacts upon the organization. There are three key elements to the marketing environment which are the internal environment, the microenvironment and the macroenvironment. Why are they important? Well marketers build both internal and external relationships. Marketers aim to deliver value to satisfied customers, so we need to assess and evaluate our internal business/corporate environment and our external environment which is subdivided into micro and macro. Internal Environment The internal environment has already been touched upon by other lessons on marketing teacher. For example, the lessons on internal marketing and also on the functions within an organization give a good starting point to look at our internal environment. A useful tool for quickly auditing your internal environment is known as the Five Ms which are Men, Money, Machinery, Materials and Markets. Here is a really quick example using British Airways. Looking internally at men, British Airways employees pilots, engineers, cabin crew, marketing managers, etc. Money is invested in the business by shareholders and banks for example. Machinery would include its aircraft but also access to air bridges and buses to ferry passengers from the terminal to the aircraft. Materials for a service business like British Airways would be aircraft fuel called kerosene (although if we were making aircraft materials would include aluminium, wiring, glass, fabric, and so on). Finally markets which we know can be both internal and external. Some might include a sixth M, which is minutes, since time is a valuable internal resource.

The Relationship between Reason and Experience Essay Example for Free

The Relationship between Reason and Experience Essay The various man-made creations, the formation of different school of thoughts and literature that reflects the varieties of human experiences and the different ideas that govern man’s way of living attest man’s love of wisdom. Man as the highest form of animal is an authentic specie that never stops learning, innovating, creating, and seeking ways to gain more choices in giving his life more meaning. As he continually desire to seek answers in his questions towards his existence, there is a continuous enhancement of man’s intellect. Reviewing the history and looking around the contemporary world itself will ascertain man’s development towards intellect. But how do knowledge and rationality develop that resulted to man’s creation of many things? People establish knowledge and rationality in different ways. Human beings basically hate uncertainty or skepticism. But skepticism as it resulted to ambiguity and doubt motivates man to seek for answers in fulfilling his wonder. The use of observation from experiences or senses is one of the most important resources in acquiring knowledge. People can easily believe the idea that mind apprehends truths through the medium of the senses for the reason that people really learned from experience. However, is there something as absolute knowledge by which human beings accumulate truths without having to experience it? This paper will attest that human beings’ innate reasoning and experience are inextricably linked in the acquisition and manipulation of knowledge. Experience that is associated with empiricism and innate reasoning associated with rationalism are interrelated. Over the years, the source and extent of knowledge has been strongly debated in the world of philosophy. Rationalism and empiricism are the two rival schools of thoughts that gave accounts on the theories of knowledge. Basically the debate between empiricists and rationalists was whether or not knowledge is acquired from the senses or experiences. Empiricism holds the â€Å"attitude that beliefs are to be accepted and acted upon only if they first have been confirmed by actual experience† (â€Å"Empiricism†). Empiricism emphasizes the role of experience as it gives evidences in the formation of ideas. Just like in science, hypothesis and theories must be tested through observation and experiments to be sure of its factuality. However some reality or knowledge on empiricism in the context of experimental reasoning is not always credible. All can be subject to revision. â€Å"As far as possible, empiricism also try to avoid any reference to abstract entities and to restrict themselves to what is sometimes called a nominalistic language, i. e. , one not containing such references† (Carnap 1997). Empiricism apparently believes that â€Å"innate knowledge is unobservable and inefficacious; that is, it does not do anything†. A particular knowledge only works and becomes more meaningful if one experiences it. For example, how would you know or imagine the richness of color present in a rainbow if you were born blind? Or how can we possibly get the idea of a perfect circle and a perfect square without seeing it? We can possibly describe it in words and description but its full meaning will never be realized without experience. The only way to have a complete idea of a rainbow or on any object is to experience it with the use of senses. â€Å"Aristotle was one of the scientists who believe in the concept of empiricism; he felt that it is imperative that we trust our senses, for what else have we to trust? † (Purvis) Rationalism on the other hand holds the idea that â€Å"reason is the chief source and test of knowledge and that reality itself has an inherently logical structure† (â€Å"Rationalism†). Moreover, rationalists believe that there are truths in this world that are beyond the reach of sense perception that can only be explained by reason and logic. Mathematical truths for example (e. g. 0+1=1) are said to be absolutely true or a statement â€Å"A nun is a female† or â€Å"A priest is a male†. These truths according to rationalists were acquired prior to experience. They will remain true whether an individual experience it or not. But in creating these mathematical truths are they not already acquired through experience? In favor of empiricism, â€Å"mathematics is a good way of showing how both rationalism and empiricism are both important components of knowledge† (Purvis 2008). The creation of numbers is not innate or they are not things on themselves. They are manmade creations that we use â€Å"to more conveniently operate and organize our empirical perceptions† (Purvis 2008) Rationalists also hold the concept that humans’ sense of morality with the presence of conscience and guilt and man’s logic are innate. But we can not rationally prove the rightness and wrongness of morality or logic without empirical evidence. The idea that there is indeed a morality will never be realized without understanding its consequences from experiences. Man was encouraged to create morality for the purpose of making his existence more meaningful. With no raw data from experience then there should be no participation in full metaphysics. Given that there is an innate sense of reasoning, but that will only be fully revealed and realized through experience. Reason and experience for me, are both reliable source of knowledge. The senses and the mind are both necessary in acquiring knowledge and truth. So the argument should arise in proving the relationship of reason and experience. Experience can sometimes be a less reliable source of knowledge or reality since at any moment new experience may disapprove the old. However we can not be completely dependent upon reasoning to gain knowledge since people naturally need experience to test the truths of logical arguments. We can not imagine a life without experience. The fact the people react or reason means people respond in their environment and their present experience or situation. Our ability to perceive is an experience in itself. The innate existence of logic and rationality I believed will come into a complete understanding and will transform into life with the use of experience. However there are also things that can never be understood or considered an absolute truth without experiencing it. Some people in order to accept truth backed up it with concrete proofs from past or future experience. Work Cited Page: Empiricism. Encyclop? dia Britannica. 2009. Encyclop? dia Britannica Online. 15 Feb. 2009 http://www. britannica. com/EBchecked/topic/186146/Empiricism. Rationalism. Encyclop? dia Britannica. 2009. Encyclop? dia Britannica Online. 15 Feb. 2009 http://www. britannica. com/EBchecked/topic/492034/rationalism. Carnap, Rudolf. â€Å"Empiricism, Semantics and Onthology†. Revue Internationale de Philosophie. Retrived 15 February, 2009. from http://www. ditext. com/carnap/carnap. html Yount, David J. Empiricism V. Rationalism online. Retrieved 15 February 2009 from http://www. mc. maricopa. edu/~yount/text/empm-v-ratm. html Purvis, Dustin. Rationalism Vs. Empiricism. SocyBerty online. 2008, April 17. Retrieved 15 February, 2009 From http://www. socyberty. com/Philosophy/Rationalism-Vs-Empiricism. 110492/1

Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in India: A Question of Multinational Corporation

Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in India: A Question of Multinational Corporation Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are the two largest corporations producing soft-drinks and bottled water today, therefore having a huge impact on people all around the world. One country in particular that has been greatly affected by these two corporations is India. Raman (2007) reported that both Coca-Cola and PepsiCo were initially attracted to India for production due to its expanding middle-class between the end of the 1980s and early 1990s as well as the extremely cheap supply of water (p. 107). Ironically, water is what ultimately caused the start of problems within India (in Kerala specifically) which came into view around 2001. The idea of water being a human right and the power that multinational corporations hold in foreign countries of the South became huge concerns. Canadians and many others around the world use these products daily, therefore making this very relevant to our daily lives. This paper will therefore argue that Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, although thought to help India ec onomically, has rather only caused many internal issues. Theoretical Backing Arturo Escobar and Gustavo Estevas post-development theory supports the argument that multinational corporations such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have only caused more problems in India rather than creating economic prosperity. Escobar explains that economic diversity is lost with modernization and development, which is what is happening in India. Their economy is highly based on the success of corporations within their country. The post-development theory also explains that environmental destruction is a negative result of modernization in third-world countries such as India. One of the major concerns with Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in Kerala, India are the environmental concerns, including polluted water, water depletion, and agricultural problems. The whole reason that Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have built factories in India is because it is the cheapest for them overall and there are less safety regulations. The government of India was convinced that allowing these factories to be built within their country would bring them economic prosperity (Raman, 2010, pg. 255), which has not necessarily happened. This could easily be linked to Andre Gunder Franks underdevelopment theory because the money that Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have made from their factories in India is immense and has brought development back to the north, however, it has only caused underdevelopment to occur within India and has brought on many internal problems. The main idea of the underdevelopment theory is that development in the Global North has caused underdevelopment in the Global South. It is the idea that these countries are not undeveloped, but they are still not as developed as the countries and companies exploiting them, which is the case in India. Looking at the base reasons as to why transnational corporations such as the Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo would want to have factories in India can be linked to the theory of neoliberalism, which supports the idea of globalization and privatization. The reasons that these corporations are spreading themselves around the world is for more profit, which is an important part of neoliberalism. India itself has been becoming increasingly liberalized since the 1990s, as the country previously did not allow corporations like Coca-Cola to be sold or produced within the country, but it is now open to corporations. Overall, the argument of this paper will be based on the post-development theory, but the phenomenon of these corporations existing in India is based on neoliberalism. Research Analysis The Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo corporations have had negative impacts in India in three major ways: first, they have been the cause for several environmental problems, especially with water depletion and agriculture. Secondly, many health problems have arisen out the pollution and pesticides used by the two corporations; and lastly, although they may contribute to the macroeconomics of the world, local economies in India have been virtually destroyed because of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo. Looking firstly at the issue of environmental issues that have arisen in India (namely within Plachimada in Kerala), water shortages and lack of safe drinking water have been the cause for major debate (Aiyer, 2008). The Coca-Cola Company was extracting anywhere from 500,000 to 1.5 million liters of groundwater a day (it takes roughly 3 liters of groundwater to make 1 liter of soft drink or 1 liter of bottled water) (p. 645). Plachimada was once a very plentiful place with a great amount of groundwater, which is why Coca-Cola originally decided to build up its factory there (Raman, 2007, p. 107). However, now residents are left with very little water for self-consumption, and in some areas, the water is not safe to drink at all (Hyams, 2004; Vedwan et al., 2007). This brings in a question of, who owns the water? Human rights suggests that water should be provided free to whoever needs it, but now Coca-Cola and PepsiCo own the only safe water, which has caused many legal issues in the recent past. Vedwan (2007) explains that there are simply not enough regulations governing the quality of commercial bottled beverages, which shows how multinational corporations often take advantage of underdeveloped countries like India. In Ghoshrays article (2007), Searching for Human Rights to Water amidst Corporate Privatization in India: Hindustan Coca-Cola Pvt. Ltd. v. Perumatty Grama Panchayat, he writes, At the heart of the case lies perhaps the most poignant legal battle of the current century: the corporate right to privatization versus the indigenous right to water,(1). Basically, the issue of water depletion in Plachimada has brought on many local economic problems. Agriculture is the largest industry in Kerala, India, but now many farmers can no longer afford to live happily (Aiyer, 2008, p. 650). Agriculture, once the backbone of the economy and the key source of capital accumulation, now only contributes 25 percent to the national GDP even as 75 percent of the population is dependent on it, (Hyams, 650). Their crops cannot grow without a sufficient amount of rainfall and groundwater. This means that local economies have been falling due to the Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo factories in India, even though the companies have brought money into the country as a whole. The Indian Government will also have to start paying for this problem because if soil degradation gets worse, importing more foods may become necessary. Therefore, this issue is actually not good economically for much of India. Closely linked with environmental degradation, the health of the people in and amongst the area of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo has also become an issue. Hyams article, Killa-Cola (2004) explains that people had become getting sick just months after the Coca-Cola Plant was built in Kerala. The waters were eventually tested by the government, and it was declared that the once clean water was no longer drinkable. For the locals living in Plachimada, this news was terrible because for many, the local groundwater was their only source of clean water. Now women are expected to walk miles for fresh water each day (Raman, 2007, p. 110). Not only that, but Coca-Cola had suggested that local farmers use their fertilizer on their fields for better crops. The farmers were encouraged to spread the sludge on their land; the corporation said it was an excellent fertilizer that would improve their yields. This provided a cheap and convenient waste disposal mechanism for the factory (Hyams, 2004). Little d id they know that the sludge contained dangerous levels of toxic metals including lead, cadmium, and chromium. So not only were the people of Plachimada being poisoned by their water, but also by their food thanks to Coca-Cola. This problem has costed a lot of money for the Indian Government to deal with, and will surely cost more for them in the future. Sludge on the fields, however, was not the only health concern when Coca-Cola came to Plachimada. The drinks themselves, according to Raman (2007) and Ciochetto (2004), were also contaminated with pesticides. In India, however, it was the thoughtless ecological degradation that laid the land to waste and the poisonous content of the soft drinks themselves that were condemned by villagers and activists alike (Raman, 2007, p. 106). This issue is what ultimately brought most publicity to Kerala, India against the Coca-Cola Company. Even after this point, the CEOs of both PepsiCo and Coca-Cola did not really change their ways. In fact, Vedwans article (2007) explains, Perhaps, the most paradoxical act to undo the effects of bad publicity came from the PepsiCo CEO when he publicly opposed the adoption of European norms for beverages sold in India (p. 671). This ultimately leads to increased underdevelopment in Kerala and other areas being affected by the drinking corporations because the people of the region are basically sinking deeper into poverty without sufficient water, increased disease, and lack of food . The post-development theory supports this. The last reason as to why the Coca-Cola and Pepsi corporations have had a negative impact on the overall society in India is economic-based. Although the corporations have helped stimulate the macroeconomics, it is clear that the micro or local economies in India have become even worse that they had been in the past (Raman, 2010, p. 254). Aiyers article (2008), for example, mentions that the agriculture sector, which used to be the largest sector in India, now only accounts for 25 percent of the GDP compared to the 75 percent of the population who relies on it. Seventy percent of this rural population faces daily hunger in terms of caloric intake, (p. 650) This fact has also led to a widespread physical depression in the rural areas of India, where an average of seven suicides per farmer happen each day (ibid). The corporations influence over India is massive, which is overall good economically for the countries in control (the United States), but not so much for India. According to Raman (2007), The Coca-Cola marketing system is an example of how the culture of consumerism is rendered essential to individuals perceptions of culture and self-worth (p. 109) Hyams notes that, Coca-Cola, which is the biggest US corporate investor in India, has the countrys law makers in the palm of its hand, (2004). Although the above statement may show some bias against Coca-Cola, it is for the most part true. Even in 2006 when the state of Kerala in India banned the use of Coca-Cola and Pepsi products, there was so much pressure from the government and corporations that the ban only lasted for one month (Aiyer, 2008, p. 640). It should also not be forgotten that while so many people are being starved in the towns where these companies exist, Coca-Cola and Pepsi are making around $2 billion per year in profit in India (Aiyer, 2008, p. 641). Overall, the above points provide truth as to why Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have had more of a negative effect on India overall rather than the positive effect that we are tricked into thinking exists. The academic journal articles referenced above support this thesis by proving that there has been environmental devastation, health problems, and economic issues caused by the Coca-Cola and Pepsi factories in the Kerala state in India. Conclusions: Overall, the issue of multinational corporations exploiting developing countries is nothing new, and countries going through rapid expansion, such as India, want corporations to come so that they can build a strong GDP. Looking specifically at Coca-Cola and Pepsi in India, it is easy to see that there have been many more negative aspects of having these corporations in India than positive aspects, even economically. The environmental degradation and health problems have caused many internal problems within Indian communities, and rather than bringing economic prosperity, it is clear that economic problems have resulted from Coca-Cola and Pepsi setting up factories in these villages. This brings us to the question of whether multinational corporations are really a good thing or not. We use their products everyday in North America, and most people share a common belief that they have helped build economies. Not only that, but we daily hear about the good things that corporations are doing for us and the events that they sponsor, such as the Olympics; but we must question what is happening behind the scenes of all of this. Looking at the issue of Coca-Cola and Pepsi in India is just a small example of the problems that multinational corporations have caused worldwide. Also, we must question if these corporations are really bringing development to a country, or rather causing underdevelopment, as Coca-Cola and Pepsi seem to be doing in the Kerala province. Finally, is neoliberalism the answer? It seems like there have been so many problems that have arisen from it. That being said, Escobar and Estevas underdevelopment theory is becoming increasingly popular as the world begins to realize what multinational corporations and neoliberalism is doing to separate the rich-poor gap between the North and South. Is globalization all that great? By looking Plachimadas case, most would come to the conclusion that it is not. These are the types of questions that can be considered when looking at the issue of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo not only in India, but all around the world. Video Conferencing: Advantages and Disadvantages Video Conferencing: Advantages and Disadvantages The exponential growth in the knowledge based society triggered by the equally strong impact of information technology and its various tools have expanded the human intellectual creativity. Information technology portal has thus enabled both the analysis as well as the development of ideas and concepts between individuals with the access of a simple computer and a telephone connection. The combination of a computer, a telephone and the services of an Internet Service Provider have given birth to a number of users to accomplish targets previously deemed to be impossible. The synergy of both information technology and the people behind the computer have resulted in the accomplishment of goals, in turn providing excellent results for their respective organizations. One such area of this new mode of exchanging information amongst the various information technology portals is video-conferencing, a development which has further reduced costs and time to take decisions, meet people, interac t, learn and teach even from the comfort of their living or board rooms respectively. Certainly one of the most informative modes of telecommuting, video-conferencing has emerged as a strong tool for exchanging information, imparting training, and learning/teaching varied courses in both the business and academic environments. The following paper will strive to present some of the salient aspects and characteristics of video-conferencing, its uses, advantages, disadvantages, as well as analyse it from the perspective of business organizations, with a particular focus on use of video-conferencing as a means of communication for venue providers and event management organizations. Our present day environment is evidence of an era in which time is the essence, and in majority of instances of crucial importance. This is true for both the fiercely competitive business environment as well as the ever fast pace of the knowledge based industries. A brief overview of the developments in the last two decades would reveal that the global economy has shown a somewhat similar set of trends as was witnessed during the era of industrialization some three centuries ago. Thus, one can easily observe the gradual transition from the industrial based economies to the present day knowledge based economy. This can be evidenced in practically every sphere of life, including but not limited to businesses, private and social lives. The onset and spread of information technology and its various modes are largely responsible for this significant transition. Today, access to information is not the domain of a few groups/regions and individuals, neither can it manipulated; instead acces s to information is now possible through a personal computer, a telephone connection, and services of an Internet Service Provider. This has resulted in transforming information into one of the biggest challenges, and into fully developed knowledge based economy. Those with the latest information in their respective disciplines are assumed successful, and this is only possible through the appropriate use of the modern tools of information technology, with video-conferencing as being one such tool. Such is the gravity, and need to acquire knowledge that one has to practically stay a few steps ahead of their nearest competitor, simply to exist in the present day competitive environment. The market dynamics and realities of respective industries practically force individuals and organizations alike to stay abreast and compete in the face of the allied challenges successfully. This is only possible by accepting challenges, however intricate and large they may be, and converting them int o effective source of knowledge. Using technology as a conduit for access to this knowledge not only saves significant resources, but also the factor of time as a crucial aspect is fully exploited and saved. It is this saving of time and resources that have given rise to such tools as video-conferencing, providing an edge to the patterns of doing business and living a successful life. Though marred by a number of drawbacks and disadvantages, video-conferencing has nevertheless emerged as one of the most effective tools of communications in the present day business environment; and it is this mode of modern communication, which will comprise a larger segment of the following paper. According to the information accessed from the web pages of www.whatis.com, videoconference is a means of communication between two groups of people from separate locations. Generally, video-conference involves the use of a audio, video, and ancillary equipment enabling both the groups of people to see, hear and converse with each other from multiple locations. Emerging from the environment of a boardroom, classroom, or a manufacturing site, video-conferencing provides each party to interact with each other as if they were sitting in front of each other in the same room. The single most important advantage of video-conferencing has been the provision of or enhancement of speed for the business processes and operations, just as the use of e-mail and facsimile has speeded up access to information. Some of the major benefits derived from video-conferencing include, but are not limited to cost savings in travel, accommodation, staff time, greater and enhanced communication amongst employ ees at distant locations, and between suppliers and customers. (Video Conferencing UK, 2005) As also briefly outlined in the opening paragraphs, it is the access to information and knowledge that has enabled individuals and organizations to stay abreast of their nearest competitors, an aspect that is true for businesses an academia alike. Simply put, a business organization cannot remain competitive if it does not have access to advance information in its respective industry; similarly a teacher cannot impart education/training to its pupils if he/she remains behind latest set of researches and information about their respective subjects. Acknowledging the fact that the present day era in fact comprises of a networked environment, the importance of video-conferencing takes on truly dynamic dimensions. This is all the more true in the face of global events which can leave a devastating effect on the local and international economy, and upon which no individual, organization or country can command any measure of control. Examples of such global events that have shattered economies, devastated entire countryside’s, and left a trail of human misery and loss of property include the tragic events of September 11, the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) virus of South East Asia, the devastating tidal waves of Tsunami destroying precious life and property from Island of Maldives in South East Asia to the shores of Dar-es-Salaam in the East African country of Tanzania. It is events such as stated in the preceding lines which makes the importance of communication tool of video-conferencing ever more critical in the present day environment. The need for information technology tools such as video-conferencing is further precipitated in view of the diverse nature of our societies across the globe, which in turn give rise to political, economic, and social risks, the threat of global diseases, terrorism including bio-terrorism either or all of which then pose a significant challenge not only to the productivity and economics of a nation, but to the individuals and organizations across the globe as well. Just as the significant nature of advances in medical research that have triggered a revolution in the treatment and care of variety of diseases, the revolution in information technology has accomplished similar results, providing and collecting crucial data and information from every corner of the globe and atmosphere for the general benefit of global populations. Information technology tools such as video-conferencing have thus made it possible for providing better productivity and enhanced performance in our organization s allowing general populations to take preventive and corrective action in the face of emergencies, crisis situations, or even using it to raise production levels and launching new and better products in the face of severe competitions. Video-conferencing thus aids in the accomplishment of performance excellence, provides for an advance information portal to thwart off threats of disease, spread of virus, the onset of incoming natural calamities including storms, cyclones such as those witnessed in the Tsunami of December of 2004. It is thus essential for practically all businesses, academic institutions, government agencies, and the general populations to develop their respective multi-cultural and technology supported communication systems so that they are better able to address either of the said contingencies, and engage and use information technology tools including video-conferencing to accomplish the same. (Andersen, 2004) Though the above sections have briefly outlined the growing importance of video-conferencing as an important tool of information technology, the following review of articles are a further attempt to provide evidence to this respect. The first article is titled Online In the Outback: The Use of Videoconferencing by Australian Aborigines authored by Mark Hodges and published in Technology Review issue of April 1996. Upon reading the said article by Mark Hodges, it was evident that while the use of video-conferencing still remained a remote idea and its application still under-utilized in countries such as the United States of America and other European countries, the Warlpiri aborigines of Tanami region of Australias Northern Territory have been effectively using this technology since 1993. The exchange of information through the use of video-conferencing given the name of Tanami Network taking its name from the region links some four settlements of Walpiri aborigines, as well as with the major Australian cities of Sydney, Darwin, and Alice Springs. The use of video-conferencing for these aborigines has proved to such a successful venture that the aborigines are able to communicate and gain vital information from a number of government service providers located in the said urban cities; while at the same time video-conferencing has also provided these Walpiri aborigines access to customers and business organizations for Walpiri arts and crafts, established links with other Australian aborigines and with indigenous populations living in countries of the world. Also used for consultations amongst the aborigine leaders to arrive at important decisions for their traditional ceremonies and community related issues, the use of video-conferencing has successfully been expanded for such applications as access to educational programmes including adult and secondary education, teacher training, legal assistance, social security, and access for remote health care. In essence, the Tanami Network, using the video-conferencing tool of information technology has thus provided these Australian aborigines an excellent portal for enhancing their quality of family and community life. Perhaps the single most important advantage gained by the use of video-conferencing technology by the Australian aborigines has been to overcome lack of communication factor within the close circle of family and friends, which even today stands threatened by alarming influence of Australian western culture as well as the geographic isolation of these fragile aborigines across the Australian continent. Thus, video-conferencing has been successfully used in areas of education, ceremonial functions, decision-making, and access to health care, promotion of Aborigine artifacts arts and culture, and access to businesses located in urban areas of Australia, as well as far off places such as London and the United States of America respectively. The link created by video-conferencing with the aborigines living in other parts of the world is yet another major accomplishment of this technology. The use of video-conferencing has thus resulted in the creation of a close network with Saami of Scandinavia, the Inupiat of Alaska, the Inuit of Canada, and the Little Red Cree Nation living in the state of Alberta in Canada. A similar video-conferencing network also in Australia provided aborigine students of New South Wales the opportunity to continue secondary education. Providing a link between 4 schools situated in remote locations, the students use the video-conferencing technology to finish the final 2 years of their education, against the option to either drop out of school, or the more expensive option of joining a boarding school located at a distance ranging from 200 to 400 kilometers. In addition to the crucial opportunity to continue education for the aborigine students, the video-conferencing technology also provides these populations with topics and subjects otherwise not available within the confines of the aborigine community. (Hodges, 1996; Fischer, 1992; Munn, 1973; Young, 1995) The above sections have briefly provided some of the salient features and uses of video-conferencing in present day environment, as well as touched upon the subject of some of the situations where video-conferencing as a tool of information technology can save precious lives and property. The following section comprises of a brief overview of the development of video-conferencing over the last 5 years in particular, and its introduction as an important tool for exchanging information over the last few decades. A brief on the development over the last 3 decades of information technology shows that, indeed video-conferencing emerged as one of the most viable forms of communication as compared to the standard telephone set originally created by Graham Bell. Some of the first impressions of video-conferencing reveal that it comprises of being expensive, does not portray the images as may be required, may not work due to inadequate bandwidths or unavailability of a suitable phone connection, difficulties in establishing the ancillary equipment such as the monitors and the network of cords and wires, or as simple excuses as the way people would actually appear on a monitor screen, and the list simply may go on. Yet, all these and other excuses are now history, as the last 5 years have witnessed a tremendous growth and development of an entirely new set of equipment together with relevant advances in telecommunication technology. This has made the use of video-conferencing mode of communication not only cost effective; but the hardware and software now in use are fairly easy to use with minimum of training required. This has fulfilled the two most important demands of the business circles across the globe; first video-conferencing has brought a significant reduction in travel expenses, and secondly, it has made communication between people scattered across continents fairly simple and within the grasp of general populations/communities. In fact studies carried out by Wainhouse Research noted that since the onset of easy-to-use software, cost effective hardware and access to telephone lines in the last 2 years, there has been a steady growth of approximately 30 percent in annual revenues across the video-conferencing industry. The availability of such equipment as web-camera is yet another evolution which has turned a simple desk-top computer into a digital-media thus changing the traditional video-conferencing technology into a new spectrum, and providing practically everyone with a desk-top, a telephone line, and a good Internet connection with a modern video-conferencing technology. The last 5 years have also witnessed the introduction of Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) -based networks with Internet Protocol (IP) systems, even though the first still dominate majority of the videoconference industry across the globe. Studies carried out by Frost Sullivan on the use of Internet noted that more than 95 percent of the videoconferences used the ISDN networks; the same study also noted that 20 percent of the entire video-conferencing by groups and organizations was done through the Internet Protocol, and more than 92 percent of personal video-conferencing was IP based respectively. A brief comparison between IP based networks for video-conferencing and ISDN networking shows that IP based networking for video-conferencing is economical, provides for an exchange of information and data in a better manner, offers an easy integration option of video-conferencing and desk-top computers, and the facility of a better managed video-conferencing network. The same study also show that by next year, the differences between ISDN based network and IP-based networks for video-conferencing will be practically eliminated. Another major development in the video-conferencing industry is the growing demand for managing video-conferencing by organizations at their own premises and using the same staff. Respective employees in the information technology departments such as storage of data and e-mail management in addition to the responsibilities already handle this. With the new responsibilities of managing video-conferencing over traditional networking functions, this is indeed a major shift in the video-conferencing industry. The new trends of using desktop computers as hubs for video-conferencing are also a source of worry for companies and organizations engaged with or providing specific software and equipment for the video-conferencing industry. Some of the organizations worthy of mentioning involved in products and services for the video-conferencing industry include Avaya, Cisco, Microsoft, and Nortel Networks. With the desktop computer already in use as a hub for video-conferencing, the video-conferencing industry is coming up with ever-new developments and technologies constantly in search of upgrading the quality of both audio and video images to be transmitted over the network. Some of the modern tools introduced include the videophone, a product launched by Motorola/World Gate Communications, which transmits full-motion video images with an excellent audio levels requiring a high speed Internet connection, yet in appearance it is simply a cellular (mobile) phone. The LCD-Integrated Display is yet another modern tool for communication. This is an advanced version and a combination of integrated video-conferencing codecs, cameras, microphones and speakers all installed within the desktop computer. Already introduced by three major manufacturers, namely Polycom, Sony and Tanberg, each of the companies have successfully launched their products featuring the said characteristics for videoconferencing. Sonys model PCS-TL50 perhaps stands out as the most advanced version, as it can perform the double function of desktop computer display, as well as easily switched on to video-conference monitor. Another development is the software based video-conferencing technology. Polycoms desktop model PVX is one such example of this new technology, which only requires a USB web-cam, a desktop computer, and software from either of the vendors in the video-conferencing industry. The significant feature of software-based video-conferencing is that it offers high-resolution pictures and high levels of audio. Polycoms PVX model offers a 30-frames per second picture frame, while the quality of sound is at 14kHz; making it one of best performing information technology tools in video-conferencing. (Regenold, 2005) As also reiterated in the above sections of the paper, the information technology portal of video-conferencing has proved its worth due to its tremendous potential to reach anywhere and at any time. In addition, the physical presence is totally eliminated for imparting training, education, or merely exchanging information with employees of the same organization. An overview of the different situations and sectors where video-conferencing is widely applied includes education and professional training, though it is also used in vital meetings amongst board members of an organization situated in distant locations across the globe. Though professional training and corporate application in business organization is said to be the most important application of video-conferencing, it is the arena of education where its application has proved most beneficial. As also described in the above case studies of Aborigines of Australia receiving feedback and information from distant locations as far as London and the United States of America, or receiving education within the vast territories of the Australian continent, video-conferencing has truly added new dimensions in the discipline of education. One may note that though video-conferencing in the arena of education has been in practice for a number of years, its combination with online form of education has added significant value to the discipline of education. Both these technologies of video-conferencing and Online have thus not only improved the quality of education as visual cues and body language are utilized in video-conferencing, the technological pairing of the two has allowed for the provision of education experts without the need to physically call them. Thus, both the factor of time and place have been made independent, as also bringing a significant reduction in the costs of travel that would otherwise be required to move experts from one location to another. (Reed Woodruff, 1995; Willis, 1996) From the above it would be evident that video-conferencing and Online mode of education when combined truly offers an excellent form of imparting education minus the numerous obstacles that may be required in the absence of both the said technology portals. However, there are numerous studies which provide significant evidence that video-conference even when combined with Online form of education has its own set of limitations, and perhaps these limitations are the reasons for the inability to make video-conferencing a virtual success. One such limitation, and perhaps greatest obstacle is the lack of interaction amongst the participants of a conference-conference. Also termed as talking heads, this format of imparting education and training is observed to loose its viability in the absence of true interaction, or failure to encourage participants to actively participate in the respective education/training program. In this context, one may observe that a face-to-face presentation comprising of no less than 50-minutes is it a tiring experience for the participants, and to bear a lecture through video-conferencing is practically an impossible exercise. As also evident through a number of studies, a one-sided lecture can only remain productive, or majority of participants remain active listeners for a maximum of 20 minutes only. After the passage of approximately 20 minutes into the one-sided lecture, an atmosphere of drowsiness can be witnessed amongst the participants. It is this fact, due to which video-conferencing even with the assistance of Online technology has not really been a favorite form of imparting education or training. There are however two methods or solutions for addressing such dilemmas as the lack of interaction amongst the participants. First is the pedagogical approach, while the second solution is through the effective use of technological aides. In the pedagogical approach for addressing the lack of interaction amongst the participants, there are three basic principals, which can provide avenues for active participation from the participants. First point is breaking the ice. These are creation of an atmosphere which provides for a motivating factor, in turn pushing the participants to actively take part in the ongoing lecture while there are amidst a video-conference; this motivation and the respective atmosphere also allows for overcoming feelings of self-consciousness. This is also called breaking the ice. Secondly, the shorter a lecture and more focused it is, the better outcome in the shape of interaction by the participants, as well as easy transfer of knowledge/training text is observed. One way to accomplish this, and make presentations short is to provide a break after every 20 minutes, and engage the participants in some form of activity. Third point, and perhaps the most important is the officering participants to get involved in the interaction, and not to leave upon them to decide whether or not to participate. This factor is also important, as it allows for both breaking the ice, as well as breaking the same lecture or training session into a number of segments, each supported by a separate form of activity from the participants. Involving participants and engaging them for active interaction can be accomplished by involving them in debates between number of experts of the same discipline, through the adoption of role models or role-playing, putting controversial questions to the participants so that they are able to offer a variety of answers to the same question, instead of asking a question which only has one answer. This third point of involving the participants also implies that interaction amongst the participants has to pre-planned prior to the actual video-conference session, and cannot be simply pursued d uring the respective session or educational text. Though this form of inviting and engaging the participants is truly effective in delivering a truly successful lecture or training program whether professional or educational, its single largest drawback lies in the fact that this can only practiced and implemented in a live presentation or videoconference. Addressing the dilemma or failure to actively participate in a videoconference from a technological perspective can be accomplished through the application of recorded messages, or training programmes. In this manner, the participants can gain access to the respective educational/ training material at the their own disposal, normally through the use of Internet. (Shearer, 2003; Kunz, 2000) It allows for the utilization of existing and proven technologies. There is significantly little training required. Video-conferencing can be used in a number of settings, environments, and configurations. It is one of the most practical tools for creating a direct liaison with both audio as well as visual linkages amongst the participants. The operating costs are comparatively less, and this too depends on the distance and number of sites. Taking the case of an interview of a potential candidate by a committee of officials within an organization (such as interviewing a candidate to fulfill a faculty position in an academic institution) shows that advantages of video-conferencing far outweigh the disadvantages. First of all, convenience of the applicant is at the forefront followed by significant reduction in travel costs, time otherwise needed for the primary responsibilities. Then there is the additional advantage of videotaping the entire proceedings of the interview, for later screening, as well as for those concerned officials who may not be available for the interview. One of the profound and proven advantages of video-conferencing has been observed in the teaching/learning environment of academic institutions. With exponential growth in the learning/teaching environment, in particular through the use of Online forms of education, videoconference has provided new dimensions to the teaching and learning situations. Though there emerges the need for specific equipment and personnel for video-conferencing, the basic requirement of an Internet Service Provider, a laptop or computer and a web-camera are all that is required for video-conferencing to take place. Video-conferencing has also found tremendous advantages amongst teachers and pupils for a one-to-one teaching format, and communication with small groups of students located in distance locations. This is particularly true since the onset of Internet as a means of direct communication. The same application has also found tremendous advantages for business communications for both long distance meetings, and one-to-one contact with employees located in distance branches of the respective organization. Though relatively less in usage, the use of ISDN conferencing is an advanced version of video-conferencing, which provides for significantly better quality of both audio and video. The principle usage of the ISDN form of conference-conference is in the learning/ teaching environment where there exists the need to ask the expert. It is this advantage of calling upon external experts in far off locations that this ISDN video-conferencing is best applied. Another advantage of this form of video-conferencing is the facility to support entire group of professionals or students and involve them in the teaching/learning environment through direct interaction. One of the disadvantages of video-conferencing is observed in the initial establishment costs, which can be high as compared to traditional modes of meetings. Video-conferencing is still considered an evolving technology, hence standardization and its usage is yet to be fully developed. One of the major restraining factors and a disadvantage of video-conferencing is the inadequate infrastructure of local telephone networks, which is one of the prime requisites. Expansion of video-conferencing facilities and locations require substantial financing, hence its utility remains limited. The operational costs of videoconference also serve as an impediment. Taking the same example of an interview of a candidate by a team of officials of an organization, there also exist disadvantages of video-conferencing; these can include potential technical difficulties such as problems with the software, hardware, and/or failure of the network. Though these problems could well be tested prior to the actual event, such as the interview, there is always the possibility of an unexpected technical problem to emerge either before or even during the actual video-conferencing activity. A major impediment in video-conferencing is the lack of personal interaction, a factor that is often regarded as an important feature of any meeting, interview or feedback. A prime example of lack of personal interaction can be observed in the ever-important handshake that is considered an important aspect in the conclusion of a business meeting, or the successful completion of an interview. Then there is the aspect of eye contact, which too remains absent during a videoconference; as eye-contact serves as an important feature for physical assessment of an individual (such as an applicant during an interview), and situations during a videoconference. Another disadvantage observed during a videoconference is the absence of trained and support personnel, in turn creating a host of problems for participants who may be unfamiliar with the video-conferencing equipment/environment, with the result that the same videoconference would make matters worse instead of providing facility for the participants. The disadvantages observed in the ISDN form of video-conferencing are the relative high costs incurred in the installation, rental and call charges. In addition the specific equipment for video-conferencing required for supporting ISDN too is costly. Then there is the difficult pattern of understanding data collaboration in ISDN, which is difficult to use, making it a disadvantage for video-conferencing. Conclusion The above paper strives to present the topic of video-conferencing in a number of perspectives, and provides evidence in respect of the popularity one of the most advanced forms of communication prevalent today in various industries. Whether it is the arena of academia, business organizations, professional trainers, to government offices, the information technology portal of video-conferencing h

Effects of Hydraulic Fracturing :: Energy

Advanced technology created the possibility to extract a natural gas beneath the earth which has never been possible before. Oil industries are once again booming deploying hydraulic fracturing method to access the natural gas lies beneath the earth, specifically the Marcellus Formation which contains limestone beds that is black shale or black rock due to presence of iron pyrite and siderites. Marcellus shale formation lie under New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio and other parts of the US states according to Parks & Recreation Journal (Dolesh 57). Its vast richness of natural gas is no doubt that it will help America’s energy demand but using hydraulic fracturing to bring that energy to the surface is disturbing the already troubled environment. Although my opponents claim that hydrocracking create jobs and reduce oil imports but it also poses environmental disaster that outweighs its profits which could be irreversible. Environmental disaster such as pollu tion increase, water contamination and risk to the public health in inevitable if gas companies are allowed to continue for drilling America’s soil. As energy demand is increasing throughout the world, America is not least, its demand for energy is increasing and energy supply dependability is at risk. The calls for cleaner energy is at its momentum with production of natural gas using hydrocracking method are deployed vast major cities across America. According to Analysis environment journal released on May 2011 has stated that new Environmental Protection Agency have â€Å"found that greenhouse gas emissions from fracturing are almost 9,000 times higher than previously calculated† this is no surprising because there are no federal regulation on hydraulic fracturing techniques (Nelson 24). Fracking products account 25% in oil industries which will increase in the near future as we are turning to other sources of alternative energy. According to EPA on â€Å"recent research into the complete life cycle of natural gas emissions raises questions about its relative cleanliness† which means as we see the increase of extracting natural gas as means of hydrocracking the pollution will drastically increase. The main component of natural gas is methane â€Å"which leaks from fractured wells or is otherwise released during natural gas drilling, transportation and power-plant accord to CQ Researcher (McGlynn 1054). It’s clear and not concise that emission of methane escaped to the earth’s atmosphere will increase as drilling of hydraulic fracture increases which will create havoc to our already ailing environment. Our existence depends on the accessibility of clean water which our life depends on.

Oliver Twist - Name Etymology Essay -- essays research papers

Oliver Twist - Name Etymology Summary: Oliver Twist is a poor orphan boy cruelly treated in the public workhouse. Pennyless and hungry, he runs away to London, only to fall into the clutches of a gang of thieves and pickpockets led by the master criminal, Fagin. Befriended by a man robbed by the gang, Oliver ultimately learns his true identity and gains a new home, a fortune and a brand new family! Name Analogies: Oliver: Norman French form of a Germanic name, possibly the name Alfihar meaning "elf army". The spelling was altered by association with Latin oliva "olive tree". The olive tree also symbolises longevity and hope, and the olive tree is renowned eternal. It is also a symbol of peace and reconciliation, the branch of the olive tree is chosen by God to mean to Noà © (Noah) that the Flood is finished and that the diminution begins, symbol of the forgiveness. Also symbolising of victory, the olive tree is a present loaded with a gratifying meaning during the Olympic Games in Athens. Crown of olive tree and jars of olive oil are so offered to the winners. A symbol of force, the olive tree is renowned for its very compact, very heavy and very hard wood. It is wooden of olive tree that are made Hercules’s bludgeons and it is with the wooden picket of olive tree that Ulysses brings down Cyclops in the Odyssey. I think this name suits Oliver very well as his name, derived from the olive tree. It symbolizes peace and reconciliation as Oliver duly shows...

Eyes in Steinbeck’s The Snake Essay -- Essays Papers

Eyes in Steinbeck’s The Snake Eyes, both human and animal, appear as a predominant motif in John Steinbeck’s â€Å"The Snake.† Eyes serve not only a descriptive function, but signify two different modes of looking. One mode, embodied by Doctor Phillips, is scientific; the other, embodied by his female visitor, is bestial. Doctor Phillips uses sight to exert control over his environment; the woman’s way of looking proves more powerful, however, by achieving a truer understanding of the irrational impulses that govern the natural world. The description of Dr. Phillips’ eyes and the eyes of the woman qualify the two opposing worlds they represent. Dr. Phillips, who represents the scientific world, has â€Å"mild† eyes (74). The adjective â€Å"mild† suggests a lack of emotion; the scientific point of view employed by the doctor is wholly rational, and thus negates irrational emotion. Dr. Phillips’ refusal to acknowledge his emotions is evident in the phrase, â€Å"[he could] not [kill] an insect for pleasure† (80). If the doctor’s â€Å"mild† eyes connote a lack of emotion, then the â€Å"glitter† in the woman’s eyes suggest excitement, arousal, and an embrace of the irrational emotions that the doctor denies (75). The description of the woman’s eyes also indicates the doctor’s inability to comprehend the woman’s mode of looking. The story, though written from a third person perspective, is limited to what the doctor sees, thin ks, and feels; thus, the description of the woman’s eyes arise from his interpretations. Words such as â€Å"dark,† â€Å"veiled,† and â€Å"dusty† (78) are attached to the woman’s eyes in order to suggest mystery. The woman’s eyes seem mysterious to Dr. Phillips because her mode of looking is alien to him. In his first interaction... ...heir eyes and body movements; the doctor is likened to the rat through his â€Å"slight† build and fair hair (74). The rat sees the snake, but remains â€Å"unconcern[ed]† (83). Just as the rat fails to recognize the danger of the snake, Dr. Phillips initially fails to recognize the danger of the woman. He presumes, incorrectly, that she is just like his other visitors. Only too late does he realize that he can neither determine how she â€Å"sees,† nor exert his own mode of looking over her. She forces him to acknowledge a point of view not only different from his own, but more attuned to the essential temperament of the natural world. This temperament is defined by the irrational urges that exist in every living thing, including the doctor himself. Note 1. All references to â€Å"The Snake† are from John Steinbeck, The Long Valley (New York, NY: Viking, 1938): 73-86.

Film and Popular Cinema Essay

After reading this week’s assignment and researching different types of film and popular cinema, I have realized some of the differences between the two. I always thought they were the same thing but found that to be far from the truth. Film is a way of putting art into motion. I viewed several pieces on different websites, in particular, on YouTube. I watched one called White Noise. It had no plot or storyline, but showed very interesting art concepts and pieces. Many artists made work addressing social, sexual and racial issues, renewing links with what survived of the ‘community video’ movement of the 1970s. By 1990 video installations had featured in several large international exhibitions and were a familiar presence in galleries and museums, assuming fresh authority through the work of such artists as Gary Hill and Marie-Jo Lafontaine. Read more:  Philippine Cinema Analysis Essay Artists making single-screen work exhibited increasingly on television, and the medium of video was merging with that of the computer. Film, no longer novel nor wholly dependent on a gallery context, had become part of an increasingly elaborate network of electronic communication (Mick Hartney, 2009). Popular cinema is designed around selling tickets and making money at the expense of catering to the demands of global audiences. An example of popular cinema is any of the Twilight movies. They are movies produced from the novels written by Stephanie Meyer. The first movie was a huge success, making audience demand for a sequel a high priority of the producers and distribution companies. The same result came of the sequel and they made the third. Originally, the deal was to make a movie for each book, but if the movies did not succeed in the box office the projects would have been terminated. As, a matter of fact, it is so successful that the last movie based on the last book has been split in half to make two more subsequent movies instead of one. I find myself appreciating both of these forms of art. I have opened up when it comes to  the appreciation of art because I have learned the subtle, and some not so subtle differences between different art forms. References Hartney, M. (2009). Video Art. Retrieved from http://www.moma.org/collection/details.php?theme_id=10215 Sayre, H. M. (2010). A World of Art (6th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.