American Export Trade Business Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

American Export Trade Business - Research Paper Example Somewhere in the range of 1992 and 2013, normal fares by the United States is assessed to be US $103197.71 million and the most extreme level in these two decades has reached in December 2012 at US $188686.00 million (â€Å"United States exports†). US essential fare things are capital merchandise, modern supplies, food and refreshments, car vehicles, motors and vehicle parts; cutting edge producing products stays one of the most significant classifications of fares. Be that as it may, in the twenty first century US began to lose relative favorable position on assembling of such products. This paper targets exploring the stake of current US cutting edge exchange shortfall and how an improvement the exchange condition would assist with improving expectations for everyday comforts in the US economy. US send out exchange The Department of Commerce’s U.S. Statistics Bureau and the Bureau of Economic Analysis discharged their yearly report of universal exchange of the US in m erchandise and ventures for the year 2012 in December that year. The report uncovers that fares of products and administrations by the nation expanded by 2.1 percent in 2012 since the long stretch of November in 2012 and arrived at a record figure of $2.20 trillion. The exchange shortage US diminished since the country’s imports have fallen by 2.7 percent during this period (â€Å"U.S. trade actuality sheet†). Figure: Exports of United States between 2011 - 2013 (Source: â€Å"United States exports†) Exports have been a significant piece of the U.S. Gross domestic product and in 2012 the portion of fares in GDP was 13.9 percent. This offer has improved in 2011 from 2008 (12.9 percent) and has stayed consistent since 2011 (â€Å"U.S. send out reality sheet†). Capital merchandise structure the biggest class of fare wares for the US. In 2012, this classification of fares was worth $526.7 billion. The main assembling division for trade wares has been named as the â€Å"motor vehicles and parts sector† (â€Å"U.S. trade reality sheet†). High-innovation sends out The assembling segment in the US contributes a huge segment of the country’s GDP that different segments and has been a driver of monetary development in the nation since 1947. This segment is exceptionally charmed in universal exchange than different areas. The assembling part fortifies the development procedure by acquiring mechanical advancement in different businesses. Creation of high-innovation items require high force of R&D. Enterprises that produce cutting edge items in the US are aviation, pharmaceuticals, electrical hardware, PCs and logical instruments (â€Å"High-innovation sends out (flow US$)†). The US fabricated merchandise represent about 35 percent of the all out worth of high innovation items exchanged the universal market. Till 2008 US appreciated high exchange surplus attributable to high income pay from fare of cutting edge pr oduced merchandise and sovereignties earned from the offer of specialized expertise. 57 percent of the country’s sends out were made merchandise. US outpaced its adversary nations in the field of mechanical exploration and modern turn of events. Headway in innovation has bolster the producers in the US

Biography of Captain William Kidd, Scottish Pirate

History of Captain William Kidd, Scottish Pirate William Kidd (c. 1654â€May 23, 1701) was a Scottish ship’s commander, privateer, and privateer. He began on a journey in 1696 as a privateer tracker and privateer, however he before long exchanged sides and had a brief yet reasonably fruitful profession as a privateer. After he turned privateer, his well off supporters back in England surrendered him. He was later indicted and hanged in England after an electrifying preliminary. Quick Facts: William Kidd Known For: Kidd was a Scottish boats commander whose undertakings prompted his preliminary and execution for piracy.Also Known As: Captain KiddBorn: c. 1654 in Dundee, ScotlandDied: May 23, 1701 in Wapping, EnglandSpouse: Sarah Kidd (m. 1691-1701) Early Life Kidd was conceived in Scotland at some point around 1654, potentially close Dundee. He took to the ocean and before long became well known as a gifted, persevering sailor. In 1689, cruising as a privateer, he took a French vessel: the boat was renamed the Blessed William and Kidd was placed in order by the legislative head of Nevis. He cruised into New York without a moment to spare to spare the representative there from a trick. In New York, he wedded a rich widow. Not long after, in England, he became companions with the Lord of Bellomont, who was to be the new legislative head of New York. Heading out as a Privateer For the English, cruising was exceptionally risky at that point. Britain was at war with France and theft was normal. Master Bellomont and a portion of his companions recommended Kidd be given a privateering contract that would permit him to assault privateers or French vessels. The recommendation was not acknowledged by the legislature, yet Bellomont and his companions chose to set up Kidd as a privateer through a private endeavor: Kidd could assault French vessels or privateers however he needed to impart his income to the speculators. Kidd was given the 34-firearm Adventure Galley and he set sail in May 1696. Turning Pirate Kidd set sail for Madagascar and the Indian Ocean, at that point a hotbed of privateer movement. All things considered, he and his team discovered not many privateer or French vessels to take. About 33% of his group kicked the bucket of ailment, and the rest turned out to be irritable in view of the absence of prizes. In August 1697, Kidd assaulted a guard of Indian fortune shipsâ but was driven off by an East India Company Man of War. This was a demonstration of theft and plainly not in Kidd’s sanction. Additionally, about this time, Kidd killed a mutinous heavy weapons specialist named William Moore by hitting him in the head with a substantial wooden can. The Pirates Take the Queddah Merchant On January 30, 1698, Kidds karma at long last changed. He caught the Queddah Merchant, a fortune transport heading home from the Far East. It was not so much reasonable game as a prize, however. It was a Moorish boat, with freight possessed by Armenians, and was captained by an Englishman named Wright. It was purportedly cruising with French papers. This was sufficient for Kidd, who auctions off the freight and partitioned the riches with his men. The holds of the galleon were overflowing with a significant freight, and the take for Kidd and his privateers was 15,000 British pounds, well over $2 million today). Kidd and his privateers were rich men. Kidd and Culliford Not long after, Kidd ran into a privateer transport captained by a famous privateer named Culliford. What occurred between the two men is obscure. As indicated by Captain Charles Johnson, a contemporary history specialist, Kidd and Culliford welcomed each other energetically and exchanged supplies and news. A considerable lot of Kidds men abandoned him now, some escaping with a lot of the fortune and others joining Culliford. At his preliminary, Kidd asserted that he wasnt sufficiently able to battle Culliford and that the majority of his men deserted him to join the privateers. He said he was permitted to keep the boats, yet simply after all the weapons and supplies were taken. Regardless, Kidd traded the spilling Adventure Galley for the fit Queddah Merchant and set sail for the Caribbean. Renunciation by Friends and Backers In the mean time, updates on Kidd turning into a privateer had arrived at England. Bellomont and his well off companions, who were significant individuals from the legislature, started removing themselves from the venture as fast as could be expected under the circumstances. Robert Livingston, a companion and individual Scotsman who knew the lord actually, was profoundly associated with Kidds undertakings. Livingston turned on Kidd, attempting frantically to keep mystery his own name and those of the others in question. With respect to Bellomont, he put out a declaration of pardon for privateers, yet Kidd and Henry Avery were explicitly barred from it. Some of Kidds previous privateers would later acknowledge this exculpate and affirm against him. Come back to New York At the point when Kidd arrived at the Caribbean, he learned he was presently viewed as a privateer by the specialists. He chose to go to New York, where his companion Lord Bellomont could ensure him until he had the option to demonstrate his innocence. He abandoned his boat and captained a littler boat to New York. As a safety measure, he covered his fortune on Gardiners Island, off of Long Island. At the point when he showed up in New York, he was captured and Lord Bellomont wouldn't accept his accounts of what had happened. He unveiled the area of his fortune on Gardiners Island and it was recouped. He went through a year in jail before being sent to England to confront preliminary. Demise Kidds preliminary occurred on May 8, 1701. The preliminary created a gigantic uproar in England, as Kidd argued that he had never really turned privateer. There was a lot of proof against him, be that as it may, and he was in the long run seen as liable. He was likewise sentenced for the demise of Moore, the defiant heavy weapons specialist. Kidd was held tight May 23, 1701, and his body was placed into an iron pen hanging along the River Thames, where it filled in as a notice to different privateers. Heritage Kidd and his case have produced a lot of enthusiasm throughout the years, undeniably more than different privateers of his age. This is most likely because of the outrage of his association with well off individuals from the illustrious court. At that point, as now, his story has a startling fascination in it, and there are many definite books and sites devoted to Kidd, his undertakings, and his inevitable preliminary and conviction. This interest is Kidds genuine inheritance in light of the fact that, to be perfectly honest, he wasnt a lot of a privateer. He didnt work for extremely long, he didnt take a large number prizes, and he was never dreaded the manner in which different privateers were. Numerous privateers, for example, Sam Bellamy, Benjamin Hornigold, or Edward Low, to give some examples were progressively effective on the vast oceans. By and by, just a select bunch of privateers, including Blackbeard and Black Bart Roberts, are as celebrated as William Kidd. Numerous students of history feel that Kidd was dealt with unjustifiably. For the time, his wrongdoings were not genuinely horrible. The heavy weapons specialist Moore was disobedient, the gathering with Culliford and his privateers may have gone the manner in which Kidd said it did, and the boats he caught were in any event faulty as far as whether they were reasonable game or not. On the off chance that it were not for his well off respectable patrons, who wished to stay unknown no matter what and to remove themselves from Kidd in any capacity potential, his contacts most likely would have spared him, on the off chance that not from prison, at that point in any event from the noose. One other heritage Kidd deserted was that of lost fortune. Kidd deserted a portion of his plunder, including gold and silver, on Gardiners Island, which was later found and inventoried. What interests present day treasure trackers is that Kidd demanded until an amazing finish that he had covered another fortune some place in the Indies-probably in the Caribbean. Individuals have been searching for that buried fortune from that point onward. Sources Defoe, Daniel. A General History of the Pirates. Dover Publications, 1972.Konstam, Angus. The World Atlas of Pirates: Treasures and Treachery on the Seven Seas, in Maps, Tall Tales, and Pictures. The Lyons Press, 2010.

Using RSS to Help with Applying for Admission and Scholarships COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY - SIPA Admissions Blog

Using RSS to Help with Applying for Admission and Scholarships COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY - SIPA Admissions Blog The Internet has become a daily staple for most applicants to SIPA and obtaining pertinent information about our program and available financial aid is something that is best done on a consistent basis. RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, is an easy and convenient way to have news and information delivered to you without having to repeat searches over and over every time you want to look for new news. RSS feeds are most commonly used through either an RSS reader or through a news feed that provides new information to you in the form of email. RSS readers are free and many email providers (such as Google’s Gmail) build RSS readers into their user interface. All you need to do to receive news as it is updated is to add an RSS enabled Web site to your reader. Each time you visit your RSS reader you will be able to see if new information has been posted. There is no need to visit every site over and over to find out if there is new news or updates. You can subscribe to this blog by both email and through your reader. To subscribe by email simply add your email to the FeedBurner subscription box in the right margin near the top of the page. If you are not familiar with RSS technology the following short YouTube video is a great introduction (length of video, 3:44). Direct YouTube link here.

Observing the Public School Environment at Marcy Open...

For the purpose of observing a school environment, I was granted the opportunity to visit Marcy Open School, a K-8 Minneapolis Public School located in 415 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN. Like all magnet schools, Marcy Open School strives to achieve racial balance and incorporates specialized curricular themes to reach out to its scholars. In addition, the school website states the mission of the school is to,† Educate for life-long learning in a respectful environment that emphasizes responsibility, creativity, curiosity, and connectedness to the world†. To enhance students’ learning outcomes, Marcy Open School incorporates the following nine unique programs: Marcy Arts Partnership, a program that funds for arts-integrated programs and residencies for all children, regardless of race, religion, developmental level or socioeconomic status. Parents established the program in 1995 in an effort to connect students with the wider community and strengthen studentsâ €™ education. Also, the school provides Path to Reading Excellence in School Sites (PRESS) a partnership between, target, the University of Minnesota, Reading Corps, and select Minneapolis schools (Marcy included), that focuses on teachers and students in grades K-3 and provides them Quality Core Instruction, Data-Based Decision Making, Tiered Interventions, and Professional Development. This program was designed because ample research proves that children’s’ ability to read by third grade determines their future

Death of a Salesman Overview

Death of a Salesman, one of Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning plays, narrates the last 24 hours in the life of 63-year-old Willy Loman, a failed salesman who had a distorted idea of the American Dream and work ethic. The play also explores his relationship with his wife, his sons, and his acquaintances.   Fast Facts: Death of a Salesman Title:  Death of a SalesmanAuthor: Arthur MillerYear Published: 1949Genre: TragedyPremiere Date: 2/10/1949, at the Morosco Theatre  Original Language: EnglishThemes: The American dream, family relationshipsMain Characters: Willy Loman, Biff Loman, Happy Loman, Linda Loman, Ben LomanNotable Adaptations: 1984 at the Broadhurst Theater, with Dustin Hoffman playing Willy; 2012 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, with Philip Seymour Hoffman as Willy Loman.  Fun Fact:  Arthur Miller provided two alternate versions of a physical insult in the play: If Willy Loman is played by a small man (like Dustin Hoffman) he is called a shrimp, but if the actor is large, Willy Loman is called a walrus.† Plot Summary   Death of a Salesman is, at first glance, about the last day in the life of salesman Willy Loman, who, at 63, has failed at his career. While at home, he dissociates from reality, entering in time switches that explain why he turned out the way he did through interactions with his brother Ben and his mistress. He also constantly fights with his eldest son Biff, who, after dropping out of high school, has been getting by as a drifter and as an occasional thief. By contrast, his younger son, Happy, has a more traditional—albeit lackluster—career and is a womanizer.   In the play’s climax, Biff and Willy fight and a resolution is reached when Biff explains how his father’s ideal of the American Dream has failed them both. Willy decides to commit suicide so that his family can collect his life insurance. Major Characters Willy Loman. The protagonist of the play, Willy is a 63-year-old salesman who had been demoted from salaried to a worker on commission. He failed at his American dream because he thought that being well liked and having good connections was a surefire way to success. Biff Loman. Willy’s eldest son—and formerly his favorite son—, Biff is a former football star who was set to great things. Yet, after flunking math and dropping out of high school, he has been living as a drifter as he refuses to subscribe to the notion of American dream his father had taught him. He thinks his father is a phony. Happy Loman. Willy’s younger son, Happy has a more traditional career path and can afford his own bachelor pad. Yet, he is a philanderer and quite a superficial character. He sometimes tries to win his parents’ favor in the play, but he is always ignored in favor of Biff’s drama. Linda Loman. Willy’s wife, she appears meek at first, but she provides Willy with a solid foundation of love. She is the one who fiercely defends him in impassioned speeches whenever other characters belittle him. The Woman in Boston. Willy’s former mistress, she shares his sense of humor and stokes his ego by emphasizing how she â€Å"picked him.† Charley. Willy’s neighbor, he has been lending him $50 a week so he can keep up with his pretenses. Ben. Willy’s brother, he became rich thanks to travels to Alaska and â€Å"the jungle.† Major Themes The American Dream. The American Dream is central in Death of a Salesman, and we see characters grapple with it from different perspectives: Willy Loman privileges being well liked over hard work, which makes him fall short of his own expectation; Biff rejects the traditional American career trajectory; Ben made his fortune by traveling far away. Politics—or Lack Thereof. Even though Miller shows how the American dream turns individuals into commodities, whose sole worth is the money they make, his play does not have a radical agenda: Willy is not pitted against ruthless employers, and his own failures are his own faults, rather than corporate-level injustices. Family Relationships. The central conflict in the play is between Willy and his son Biff. As a father, he saw a lot of promise in the athletic and womanizing Biff. After he dropped out of high school, however, father and son had a fallout, and Biff explicitly rejects the notions of American dream imparted by his father. Happy is more in line with Willy’s way of life, but he is not the favorite child and is, overall, a lackluster character lacking any depth. The relationship between Willy, his father, and his brother Ben is explored as well. Willy’s father used to make and sell flutes, and for that purpose, he had his family travel all over the country. Ben, who made his fortune traveling, took after his father. Literary Style The language of Death of a Salesman, on a superficial read, is quite unmemorable, as it lacks poetry and quotability.  However, lines such as  Hes liked, but hes not well liked, Attention must be paid, and  Riding on a smile and a shoestring, have passed into the language as aphorisms.   In order to explore Willy’s backstory, Miller resorts to a narrative device called time switch. Characters from both the present-day event and the past occupy the stage, and it represents Willy’s descent into insanity. About the Author   Arthur Miller wrote Death of a Salesman in 1947 and 1948 before its Broadway premiere in 1949. The play grew out of his life experiences, which included his father losing everything in the  1929 Stock Market crash.   Death of a Salesman had its origins in a short story Miller wrote at the age of seventeen when he worked, briefly, for his father’s company. It told of an aging salesman who sells nothing, is abused by the buyers, and borrows his subway fare from the young narrator, only to throw himself under a subway train. Miller modeled Willy on his  salesman uncle, Manny Newman, a man who was a competitor, at all times, in all things, and at every moment. My brother and I he saw running neck and neck with his two sons in some race that never stopped in his mind, as he explained in his autobiography.

Police and Criminal Justice Free Essays

In the United States today, the average citizen is unaware of the corruption that goes on in our Criminal Justice System. Law enforcement and Police Officers are abusing their power. If this goes unnoticed it could grow larger and cause bigger problems in our country. We will write a custom essay sample on Police and Criminal Justice or any similar topic only for you Order Now The United States Criminal Justice System is one of the best in the whole world. In other countries there is little or no policing. Police officers in the US are well-trained and it is hard to reach their position without a strong education. A huge quality of a perfect Police Officer is a perfect control of temper because a quiet determined manner has more effect than violent action. But everyone isn’t perfect and there are Police Officers out there that abuse their power and create a dangerous environment for the people around them. During the 1960’s Police Brutality was at an all time high. Police were being biased and attacked those that they did not like because they had the power to do so. On March 3, 1991 when Rodney King and his friend Bryant Allen were driving in Los Angeles, they refused to stop for an officer trying to pull them over. Instead they increased their speed and when the Police finally stopped the car they viciously beat King for a period of two minutes. He was left with 11 skull fractures, brain damage, and kidney damage. The police officers did not realize though that their actions were being videotaped. They were eventually tried and found not guilty by an all white jury. This set off 6 days of rioting and the case prompted an era of reform. In the book, â€Å"Essentials of Criminal Justice† written by Larry Siegel, it notes some of the things done by Police Departments to make sure that Policemen are not abusing their power. These include, â€Å"increasing the intelligence standards on the Police Force, officers to be given mental exams to weed out officers that are mentally unfit for the job, and oral boards, which are sitting down with Police Chiefs and answering questions about the Job†. Although all these precautions are set to limit or diminish abusive power, it is still a problem that needs to be dealt with. According to Diane Wetendorf, who wrote a book on Abusing Power in Law enforcement she states that, â€Å"Society grants members of law enforcement enormous power over citizens to enable the police to keep the peace and to preserve social rder. They are granted a great deal of freedom to use their Judgment regarding which laws to enforce, when and against whom. This wide range of options and authority can lead to the abuse of their power. Some police officers come to see themselves not as simply enforcers of the law, but as the law itself. † Police that abuse their power look at things from a Personal view rather than a professional view. Police Brutality exists in many forms including False Arrest, Intimidation, Racial Profiling, Sexual Abuse and Surveillance abuse. This exists because officers are not rotecting and serving, they are rather going after those that they do not like. In other Countries, Police Departments are corrupt and work with Politicians to create a world run by the Police and Politics. In alt â€Å"H the Sky’, a book written by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl Wudunn, the police are very corrupt and it causes mayhem in their country. The police in India are tied into Politics and Criminals. The police work with the leaders of prostitution businesses, called brothels. The police take bribes from the leaders and look the other way when something wrong is happening. In Half the Sky stories are told about the corruption within the Police Forces. When people come running to the police about a rape or something bad that had been done to them, the police usually side with the criminals and nothing is done about the crime. In India the average person doesn’t have a say at all. If they are convicted of a crime they did not do they cannot go to court and have a trial like we do. They are sent right to Jail without being questioned. Police work with High power criminals and run most of the big prostitution businesses. This is what the US ould lead to if Policemen that abuse their power are not stopped. On November 7, 2013, I conducted an interview with Alice Perry about corruption in Law Enforcement. Alice Perry is a Criminal Justice Professor at Westfield State University and has a huge background in Law Enforcement. She has prosecuted many Police Officers in the US that have abused their power. She has convicted officers for stealing drugs from the evidence room, and also an officer that was selling drugs in state prison. She also told me a story about the police abusing their power in Etowah County, Alabama. According to a blog on the American Civil Liberties Union’s website, it states that â€Å"About once a month, a marked sheriffs car shows up, unannounced and after dark, outside a family’s home in Alabama. Uniformed officers walk to the family’s door, in plain sight of every neighbor. They knock and demand to be let in. If the family refuses, the police threaten them with arrest. Once inside, the officers search the family’s home – all without ever obtaining a warrant. † When one member of the family was a child he was convicted of a sexual offense and had to register as a sex ffender. The policeman had no right to search the house randomly without a warrant, and caused unwanted attention and embarrassment to the family. This is police abuse of power and must be stopped or it may happen to families throughout the country. Perry also explained to me that it is crucial for policing to be honest and law-abiding because they have so much power and could cause harm to civilians. They must perform the Job as if they are always being videotaped. I brought up the Half the Sky book and the issues there and asked if she thought that law enforcement layed a big role on why people live such a harsh life there. She replied, â€Å"Absolutely. Tyranny exists in those countries. If you’re afraid of the police you won’t say anything or report crimes because you’re afraid of being thrown in Jail. In M ©xico 45% of prosecutors and Judges are on cartels payroll. Around 50% of police officers are on the same payroll. The cartels and Politician’s have a relationship together and this creates a lawless environment. † We must not let the Police become power driven and turn into corrupt officers like the Police in India. There is a way to stop this. We must ecome aware of Police Brutality and Abusive power and act on it. State, Federal, and Local Authorities should ensure that abuses including torture, brutality, and other excessive force by Police officers should not be tolerated and the Officers should be held accountable for their actions and be brought to Justice. Police Officers are using excessive force and are not getting in trouble at all. The victims are not speaking up and this could cause the abusive Police Officers to think that they can’t be stopped and they will continue doing so. Another solution to all of this is to introduce training rograms designed to minimize the risk of unnecessary force. These training programs should include gender issues and sensitivity to minority groups. This would help steer a lot of Police Officers from being Abusive toward minority groups and become less biased. Other training programs should include ethics and integrity training. We can help out by making the community aware of the issue, whether it’s by having guest speakers, showing videos, or having meetings and explaining the issue. If we don’t take action then our Law Enforcement could become as corrupt as other countries police forces. How to cite Police and Criminal Justice, Papers

Always outnumbered free essay sample

Always outnumbered, Always outgunned focuses on the life and experiences of a black ex-convict who in the daily dealings tries to redeem himself, in the eyes of society and himself. Divided in to various short stories, the reader follows the life and experiences of the protagonist, Socrates Fortlow.The chief protagonist is an ex-convict, who has had a turbulent and disturbing past whereby he had been involved in murder and other crimes, both in and out of jail. However, after he is discharged he seeks to reform and contribute effectively to the society. However, his stature as an ex-convict gives birth to hindrances for his motive of reforming and redeeming himself.The novel highlights the sufferings of the black community in a deeply racist and classical America; the protagonist, Socrates as his name implies has its stature raised to that of a deep thinker, a philosopher. In his journey the reader finds the intellectual growth of the hero who is giving his utmost to seek a decent life for himself. We will write a custom essay sample on Always outnumbered or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page To undo the past injuries he has inflicted and to reform himself. In Socrates the readers would find some one to refer to for the difficulties he faces in redeeming himself stand symbolic for the difficulties the black community in America felt, in the 1990s.The turning point in Socrates life is his visit to the Capricorn bookstore, whereby he learns that life is not without a purpose, that we are alive because we have to contribute in some way or the other. That, we can be good despite being deviant. That life is about learning and reforming, not singing the same rough tune forever.This is the lesson of life that ex-convict Socrates learns and what makes him turn over a new leaf. He promised to stay inclined towards doing good to everyone and abstaining from letting his anger mould his actions, in an environment where his existence is undermined politically, socially and even economically.However, the racist society made it difficult for a black man to redeem himself for a stereotypical image was associated with them. One in which the rights of the blacks were undermined by the power of the whites. This racist environment made it arduous for him to control his temper and also raised difficulties for him to prevent himself for getting incarcerated again, for his existence as a human being was out rightly denied by the masses. As Socrates refers to in the book, â€Å"because the rules say a black man can’t have nothing† (Walter, 163).Socrates strives to stay pragmatic and avoid all emotional repercussions. His relationship with Darryl, a small boy who has the same tendencies as Socrates, paves way for Socrates to abstain someone else from treadin g the rocky path he had in his past. He serves not only as Darryl’s father figure but also as a friend. He differentiates the correct from Ferroneous for him. Staying firm with the boy, he tries to teach him the rules of life. And in return for that he acquires Darryl’s respect. He redeems himself in the eyes of a boy who knows the story of his life.Who accepts him for who he is and applauds him for his change. Socrates inculcates in Darryl the freedom to be himself and face his enemies despite the fact that he’ll â€Å"be always outnumbered, always outgunned† (Walter ,131). Not only that, but Socrates also serves as a helping hand for his former nemesis, Roland who is plagued by cancer, by showing his respect for humanity. By contrasting this respect and care that Socrates shows with that of the past where he had committed blasphemous crimes, in the eyes of the reader Socrates is enroute to seeking redemption for his past sins.However, the very assessment falls short as depicted in the chapter, â€Å"Letters to Theresa† where Socrates seeks to reconcile with his past, by attempting to apologize to his former girlfriend. However, the news of her death proves against the motive of his present life: redemption. However, the society racist behavior overshadows all his attempts at redeeming himself and fighting the volcano of rage that presides within him.For example, in equal opportunity he comes face to face with the prudish standards of society whereby he seeks employment in a store. Not only is he disrespected on the basis of his creed and color by the manager and assistant manager, but is also faced with hostility sprung on the basis of the stereotypical character the society has attributed to the black community: violent and undeserving. Therefore, by a close analysis of the book in accordance with the historical, political, social and economical structures represented it is safe to assert that the character of Socrates Fortlow is a symbol of the entire black community of America who suffers the same dilemma and the same injustices- at work and at play. The African community has been associated with a label of being convicts due to which they face difficulties in everyday dealings. Injustice plagues their life.This is what the reader is made acquainted to throughout the course of the book. In each of the 14 chapters, a new side of Socrates intellect is shown, where he thinks; he tries to undermine his violent self; he tries to contribute effectively to the society, to the people he comes across in his everyday dealings. He tries to make up for his bloody past actions through reforming himself in to a person devoid of all violence. He tries to learn to be patient in a world where he will be treated harshly. He tries to forgive and forget the insolent behavior people have towards him.He tries to soothe down in a world where legally his race is undermined. In such a world he tries to redeem himself. In the eyes of some he succeeds. In the eyes of the society he will always be an outcast.A person who no matter what he does can never truly attain redemption for his sins. People might think that he can not undo all the injuries he inflicted in the past but for the reader, the progression of Socrates character throughout the course of the book invokes pity for this character, in short in the eyes of the reader , Socrates has achieve redemption even though He states that Christians believe in redemption, thats true. But usually you have to die in order tget it. Marvane Street, pg 90. For him, redemption is in the hands of the divine lord and his efforts will bear no fruit in this racist world.References:Walter, M 1998, â€Å"Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned† Published by W.W. Norton. Pages 131 And 163

The family from a sociological approach

The family from a sociological approach The family is the simplest form of social interaction; it forms the base of a society. Ideologies, believes, and functions undertaken in family set-up determine the kind of society that emerges in a particular area. Sociological perspectives and theories are used to define different situations in society; they try to give meaning of existence of certain social phenomenons. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The family from a sociological approach specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Although major theories focus on the larger community, the family can also be explained using the similar sociological theories/ideologies (Beah,19-89). This paper diagnoses the concept of family using sociological perspectives and theories. Symbolic interaction After birth, a child is introduced to a family setting; this is where the child gets the initial socialization and life lessons starts. It is in the family that children learn values, a dapt to certain norms, have ideologies and get a sense of belonging. According to symbolic theory, people perform certain duties from the feeling they have towards others; it is in the family, a social institution that children learn to listen and respect adults, parents and value other people’s opinions. The sense of identity and belonging comes into being as the child gets emotional and psychological development. The reinforcements both negative and positive at this stage affect the later life of the child. Functionalism theory According to the theory, the family is seen as the noble most unit of a society where norms and values are learnt; it develops collective conscience among its members. According to the theory, each individual has a function to undertake. Parents have the role of providing food and shelter to their children; this helps the entire family to be maintained; children learn on adaptation attributes and how to share the available resources. Parents set b ase for goals attainment between themselves and for their children. On the other hand, children should respect their parents and perform allocated duties with decency. Home keepers and caregivers can also be taken as part of the family; they play a role in family integration and pattern maintenance.Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Conflict perspective According to conflicts theory, the society is thought to be under constant struggle for available resources; resources can be wealth, status and power. It sees the world to have two categories of people, the haves and the have-nots. The have-nots are constantly struggling with the haves and the haves are trying available options to oppress and dominate in the have-nots. In a family setting, there is the weaker partner, mostly the woman, she is dominated and have to be submissive to her husband. They are oppressed through income differences, culture and societal briefs. Men dominate families and they have their word as final. Although there are a number of human rights advocators challenging this theory, its effect can be trace in families. Children have to listen and not object what their parents rule; enforced by the community and the societal culture that parents should make decisions for the children. It is seen as struggle since children would not mind having their own will to make decisions. In most cases, family violence emanate from conflicts among family members. Deviance Deviance is said to have occurred in the society if a member of the society does things that contravenes what the majority think as just in most cases, it leads to punishment through correction methods operation in a certain community. In the family, there are disputes between parents and children; they are brought about as social justice is instilled especially to children. Alternatively, people have different beliefs, pe rspectives and personalities; wife and husband may have such differences making them conflict that might result to deviance like domestic violence, rape, abandonment and selfishness. In most societies, culture has a way of solving domestic violence; all that parents need to do is consult the right people with the differences they have. Children on the other hand may deviate from the norms of a family leading to conflict; if they are deviant, then the family will use correction methods put in place to correct such occurrences (Beah,19-89). Social stratification Stratification is division of different classes of people into different social status defined by wealth, status and power. Though in a family, set up the stratification may not be seen out rightly, it exists. Dominating partner in a family is mostly the one who is financially better off while the other is oppressed and has no option than to lie low. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The family from a sociological approach specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The dominant spouse can be said to be in a high social class while the other is in a lower social class. The case above of dominance and unconscious division of power is seen as social stratification in the family. Success in education in children or spouses brings social stratification where the well-performed party feels to have an upper hand than the rest. Childhoods and teen violence When one is talking of domestic violence, what comes in mind is wife or husband violence; in most case women are on the receiving end, they are subjected to physical, psychological and emotional violence. However the scope of domestic violence extend far beyond this believe to include child abuse and the effects that such abuse have on a child. The most common types of violence within the family are wife abuse and child abuse. Violence in this sense may include slaps, pushes, sexual abuse, battering, an d use of abusive words. A research conducted by in United States of America, shown that each year over 3.3 children suffer from domestic violence. The recognition of this is affected by lack of data that can be used for the analysis. The effect is mostly psychological, emotional and sometimes physical. The most noted one is physical and thus emotional and psychological remains not recorded (Beah,19-89). Children are sometimes the subject of war and they suffer from beatings and physical injury; when such a case happens, then the child is more likely to become violent at his later stages in life; this creates another relationship of domestic violence and violence of children and teens: Violence among children and teens (V.C.T.) = f (domestic violence (D.V.)) Child behavior development The environment they are brought up in shapes the behavior of children; in case his families are violent, the behavior that the child will develop is likely to be inclined to that angle. A family is a sociological unit, which includes parents and children. The environment that he grows in will shape the kind of behavior that a child has the relationship is as follows Children behaviour (C.B) = f (domestic violence (D.V.)) Self-esteem The family as the simplest unit of a society moulds children self-esteem; self-esteem means the self-value that human beings hold. If a child is brought up in a violent family, his/her sense of esteem is lowered. The relationship will be as follows:Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Child’s self-esteem (C.E) = f (domestic violence (D.V.)) Conclusions A family is the smallest unit of a society; it has all elements of a society at micro level. When analyzing family concepts and ideologies, sociologists use sociological theories to explain different situations/circumstances within the social unit. Income, education, and societal norms are the major players in maintaining social stratification within the family. Work Cited Beah, Ishmael. A Long Way Gone:Â  Memoirs of a Boy Soldier. New York: Farrar, 2008. Print.

How to Study for a Test in 5 Days

How to Study for a Test in 5 Days How do you study for a test if you have five days? Well, thats a great question! Thankfully, you arent asking, How do you study for a test if you only have one, two, three, or four days. You gave yourself plenty of time to prepare fully for your test and didnt even consider cramming. Heres your 5-day schedule. Ask and Read In school, ask your teacher what type of test it will be. Multiple choice? Essay? Thatll make a difference in how you prepare. Ask your teacher for a review sheet if he/she hasnt already given you one. Also, get a study partner set up for the night before the test if possible–even via phone/Facebook/Skype. Dont forget to take home your review sheet and textbook. When you are at home, eat some brain food. Read your review sheet, so you know whats going to be on the test. Re-read the chapters in the textbook that will be on the test. Thats it for day one! Organize and Make Flashcards Pay attention in class–your teacher may be going over things that will be on the test! Take home your handouts, assignments, and former quizzes along with your textbook and review sheet. At home, organize your notes. Rewrite or type them up so they are legible. Organize your handouts according to dates. Make note of anything youre missing. Go through your review sheet, finding the answers for every question on there from your notes, handouts, textbook, etc. Make flashcards with a question/term/vocabulary word on the front of the card, and the answer on the back. When youre finished, put your flashcards in your backpack so you can study throughout the day tomorrow. Dont forget to stay focused! Memorize Throughout the day in school, pull your flashcards out and ask yourself questions (when youre waiting for class to start, at lunch, during study hall, etc.) Clarify anything you didnt totally understand with your teacher. Ask for missing items and ask if there will be a review before the test later on in the week. At home, set a timer for 45 minutes, and memorize everything on the review sheet that you dont already know using  mnemonic devices  like acronyms or singing a song. Stop after 45 minutes and move on to other homework. You have two more days to study for this bad boy! Put your flashcards in your backpack for more review tomorrow. Memorize Some More Again, pull your flashcards out and ask yourself questions throughout the day. Confirm a study date for tomorrow night. Set a timer for 45 minutes again when you are home. Go back through your flashcards and review sheet, memorizing anything you dont have down pat. Take a 5-minute break. If necessary, set a timer for 45 minutes again and continue if youre still unsure of any material! Put your flashcards in your backpack for review again tomorrow. Study and Quiz Throughout the day, pull your flashcards out and ask yourself questions again. If your teacher is having an exam review today, pay close attention and write down anything you havent learned yet. If the teacher mentions it today–its on the test, guaranteed! Confirm the study date with a friend for this evening. Ten-to-twenty minutes before your study partner (or mom) shows up to quiz you for the exam, review your flashcards. Make sure you have everything down pat. When your study partner arrives, take turns asking possible exam questions to each other. Make sure each of you has a turn asking and answering because youll learn the material best doing both. Stop once youve been through the questions a few times and get a good nights sleep.

List given to choose from Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

List given to choose from - Research Paper Example Brian Turner is an American army veteran who served the army for seven years. He was assigned in Bosnia in 1999 and Herzegovina in 2000. Later, in 2004 he served as a team leader in the first Stryker brigade sent to Iraq, and was stationed near Mosul for much of 2004. As a poet, Turner’s contributions to war poetry, as Clover and Brouer note, are his earnest and proficient observations of war, which the audience would not find in a press release. In his poems, Turner provides his reflections of war apart from the Yeatsian style, which is said to â€Å"negotiate between the expectations of antiwar audience and the demands of American poetry as a national genre† (Metres 14). Instead, Turner employs seriality in his poems. The term seriality was first introduced by Jean-Paul Sarte and was later used by Iris Marion Young to refer to the collectivity of women â€Å"based on social experiences† (Zack 139). In this paper, the term seriality is used not just to refer to women but to a group of people with the same experiences, particularly soldiers or promoters of peace. In â€Å"Here, Bullet,† one can conceive the seriality among soldiers, not just American soldiers. The persona in the poem is a soldier who challenges bullet in his body to take his life, saying, â€Å"I dare you to finish what you have started. ..triggering my tongue’s explosives for the riffling I have inside of me† (8-9, 12-13). By talking to the bullet this way, the persona embodies every soldier’s view of life and death. Turner does not limit the identity of his persona to an American soldier. There are no descriptions to identify the soldier’s nationality. As such, the poem achieves universality as it deals with the struggles of soldiers for life. The seriality in Turner’s poems leads the audience to empathize with soldiers and feel resistance to war. The poem does not limit the audience to share the author’s political view of war. Instead, the poem guide the readers to gain personal insights and understanding of the issue by submerging them into the experience and not just soliciting reactions or observations as other poems usually do. This view of the audience as active participants in the experience is in accordance with Adorno’s view (Metres 13). Specifically, in Turner’s award-winning poem, â€Å"Here, Bullet,† the author powerfully uses the first-person perspective to address a bullet that is supposed to cause the persona’s death. The persona uses an implied personification and talks straight to the bullet, saying, Because here, Bullet,/here is where I complete the word you bring (9-10). As the readers recite the poem, they are led to assume the persona’s identity by the use of â€Å"I.† Addressing an inanimate object such as a bullet signifies a one-sided conversation that captures the interest of the readers to engage in the communication either as the per sona or the addressee. Unlike in a monologue where the persona controls his/her thoughts as he/she addresses him/herself, the dialogue allows the audience to participate as either the persona or the addressee, thus achieving seriality not only among soldiers but peacemakers alike. Turner’s use of polyvocal collage invites the readers to be active participants to the war experience or the journey. The term polyvocal collage suggests the use of different speakers in the

Consumerism and the loss of identity in the Middle East (Dubai and Essay

Consumerism and the loss of identity in the Middle East (Dubai and Doha) - Essay Example This paper seeks to identify how consumerism has affected the lives of the people and the paper focuses on exploring the concept of consumerism as it has developed in recent years in the Middle East. Globalization as a phenomenon is also studied to determine how the economic progression of the Middle Eastern countries has encouraged a culture of consumerism. The result is a change in cultural and social perceptions and this change is closely related to the consumerist culture which seems to have transformed traditional identities in the Middle East. The focus of this research is also on the consumerist culture pertaining to women and their compulsive buying behavior. Some of the works I have referred to include Consumption by Robert Bocock which explores the history of consumerism and The Beauty Myth by Naomi Wolf, a work that addresses the situation of women in terms of beauty and how it has been used as a marketing tool and created an obsession with physical appearance. This essay explores the concept of consumerism and its relationship with social trends and perceptions and highlights the extensive marketing networks that define consumption patterns. The relationship between capitalistic consumption and cultural traditional identities is also explored to study religious, psychological, political and social dimensions in the Middle East. Consumption in its economic term refers to consumers buying and using the things they ‘need’. However as explored in Consumption by Robert Bocock, there has been a shift in the way consumption is defined. Consumption is founded on the basis of a need and a constant sense of incompleteness that is compensated with material things. This is because consumers desire the â€Å"unattainable- that is the satiation of all their desires.† Constant consumption itself should not be seen as a consumption of material things, but a consumption of

Impact of Urban Living on Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Impact of Urban Living on Biodiversity and Ecosystems It is estimated that almost more than one half of the worlds population is presently living in urban areas (Sakieh et al. 2016; Weigi et al. 2014). In many parts of the world, increasing urban lands has caused changing land use and land cover (LULC) (Wu 2014). Biodiversity, ecosystem processes and functions and human habitants in an urban environment are influenced by the speed and spatiotemporal pattern of urbanization (Wu et al. 2011; Asgarian et al. 2015; Sangani et al. 2015; Wu 2014; Jaafari et al. 2015). Landscape beauty is being affected by LULC changes and urbanization has led to the destruction of aesthetic values in many parts of the world. Scenic landscapes, as one of the ecosystem services, are elements of the environment with the potential for human enjoyment and in some cases they are considered as valuable parameters for nature conservation and management (Bishop and Hulse 1994). The landscape is continually changing due to human activities but its aesthetics usually su ffers from poor quantification and inclusion in management plans. According to Naveh (1995), scenic landscapes are products of interactivity between humans and natural systems where natural landscapes become inhabited, influenced or altered by mutual relationships between ecological and socioeconomic processes. Such interrelated feedbacks can lead to physical modifications of the environment that ultimately can be seen, so landscape aesthetic assessment seem to be essential in land use planning. Understanding, analysis, monitoring and modeling of urban growth is crucial for the management of current urban systems as well as for the planning of future growth (Zhou et al. 2014). Geospatial predictive models and change detection methods can provide a further level of understanding of the causes and impacts of urban growth mechanisms (Sakieh et al. 2014a). In the process of decision making, land managers need to examine the consequences of the urban development process. Regarding the progress in computing power, easy access to spatial data sets and development of functional computer-based models, now there is a possibility in which land use managers and decision makers can evaluate the outcome of their decisions under different alternatives and at the minimum possible cost (Sakieh et al. 2014b). Inclusion of new methodologies such as spatial multi-criteria evaluation (SMCE) can further improve representation and modelling of urban growth patterns, which finally provide spatial d ecision support systems (SDSS) for better planning and management of urban areas (Dai et al. 2001; Jie et al. 2010; Youssef et al. 2011; Xu et al. 2011; Pourebrahim et al. 2011; Yuechen et al. 2011; Bagheri et al. 2013; Bathrellos et al. 2012; Sheng et al. 2012; Jeong et al. 2013, Sakieh et al. 2014b). Since 2000, there have been noticeable efforts for developing microsimulation LULC change methods such as cellular automata (CA) and agent-based models (Goodarzi et al.2016). CA-based models have a natural compatibility to raster geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) data and are appropriate for detail resolution modeling and simulating dynamic spatial processes (Sullivan and Torrens 2000). In recent years, there have been developed some CA-based models such as SLEUTH (Slope, Landuse, Exclusion, Urban, Transportation, and Hillshade) (Clarke et al. 1997), CLUE-S (the Conversion of Land Use and its Effects at Small regional extent) (Verburg et al. 2002), iCity (Stevens et al. 2007) and DINAMICA (Soares-Filho et al. 2002). Compared with the above mentioned spatial models, the SLEUTH model requires fewer input layers and also offers various alternatives for future urban growth prediction (Norman et al. 2012). These characteristics of SLEUTH model have made it as one of the most-implemented and popular methods for land use simulation at different scales (e.g. regional, national, and even binational) (Maithani 2010; Norman et al. 2012; Chaudhuri and Clarke 2013). However, there are a number of limitations with SLEUTH. The first of these is that it is computationally expensive. It requires a high number of model runs using a multi-stage calibration process to narrow down the coefficient value for each input parameter (Goldstein 2003). The second drawback is related to non-linearity of the model for the combination of the coefficients. The Brute Force method[1] which is used in this paper for calibrating the SLEUTH can fall in local maxima and may miss the better coefficient set (Goldstein 2003, Jafarnejad et al. 2015). Urban expansion is a complicated event which mainly occurs because of increasing population and the need for more construction. Consequently, vast lands of valuable ecosystems such as agricultural lands, forests and pastures are consumed and converted to urban areas (Sakieh et al. 2014b). Therefore it is essential to understand and recognize this process in order to implement effective management and avoid reducing the aesthetic value of landscapes. To achieve this goal, areas with high aesthetic value should be recognized at the first step. In this regard, there are various approaches to determine the aesthetic impacts on different areas of the city including expert-based methods such as Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE), statistical approaches such Logistic Regression (LR) and Artificial Intelligence-based methods such as Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) Neural Networks (Riveira and Maseda 2006). These methods are repeatedly being implemented for suitability mapping of utilities such as urbanization (Pijanowski et al. 2002; Hu and Lo 2007; Pao 2008; Mahiny and Clarke 2012; Sakieh et al. 2015), environmental conservation (Singh and Kushwaha 2011; Mehri et al. 2014; Sakieh et al. 2015) and agricultural activities (Mozumder and Tripathi 2014; Bodaghabadi et al. 2015) but are less implemented for mapping aesthetic values. The MLP neural network approach has a remarkable ability to derive meaning from complicated or imprecise data and detect trends that are too complex for either humans or other computer techniques. MLP is a more accurate modelling method compared to the others (Saeidi and Salmanmahiny 2014) and has been used in this research. Accordingly, creating a suitable model to predict the landscape scenic value could provide a basis for explicit, quick and accurate integration of aesthetic evaluation into land-use planning efforts. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to evaluate the landscape aesthetic suitability and predict the spatial patterns of u rbanized lands in an effort to preserve landscapes of high aesthetic value. The following section describes how a directed modeling framework can be employed to introduce urban growth scenarios with regarding landscape aesthetic suitability, and finally to develop a city without considerable impact on its aesthetic suitability. Materials and methods Study area Gorgan is one of the cities in the northeast of Iran and the capital of Golestan province, located in 36 °, 49 ´ N and 54 °, 24 ´ E (Fig. 1). Gorgan has a mild and humid climate though summers are very hot and humid. The regional topography is very diverse and includes mountains, forests and grasslands, steppes and plains, desert and barren, rivers, wetlands and agricultural lands. Lush Hyrcanian temperate forests are located in the south, while flat areas with farmlands and rangelands make the main structure of the landscape in the north part of the case study. the region is also a destination for about two millions of tourists each year because of its aesthetic values and touristic environment, (Mehrnews 2015).Regarding the nomination of the area as a new province of Iran, rapid population growth has occurred that caused the increasing of built-up surfaces and consequently has made a series of conflicts between land developers and conservation agencies. These disagreements emphasise the importance of LULC planning in this area (Sakieh et al. 2016 b). Figure (1) Scenario based urban growth modelling In this research the SLEUTH cellular automata urban growth model was used to predict dynamics of Gorgan City developing under three different scenarios including historical, managed and aesthetically sound urban growth up to year 2030. The Historical Urban Growth (HUG) scenario assumes that the present pattern of urban growth will be maintained in the future. At the Managed Urban Growth (MUG) scenario, we tried to dictate an infill form of urban development with the aim of protecting the immediate environment of the city against urbanization. In the Aesthetically sound Urban Growth (AUG) scenario, an aesthetic suitability layer was used as the extra excluded layer in SLEUTH model to protect patches of high scenic value. Fig. 2 depicts a research flowchart of the study. The procedure for determining the aesthetic suitability map which was used as the excluded layer is explained in the following section. Figure (2) Aesthetic suitability mapping using MLP MLP is a feed forward artificial neural network model that maps different sets of input data toward a set of applicable and meaningful outputs (Rumelhart 1986). In a feed forward neural network, the information moves only in forward direction, from the input nodes, over the hidden nodes and to the output nodes. A node is considered to be a connection point that can receive, create, store or send data along distributed network routes (Ciresan et al. 2012). Exclusive of the input nodes, each node is a neuron or processing element with a nonlinear transfer function (Fig. 3). There are no cycles or loops in the network. MLP utilizes a supervised learning technique called back propagation for training the network (Rosenblatt et al. 1961; Rumelhart 1986). Learning process conducts in the perceptron by changing the connection weights after the processing of each part of data. Figure (3) Back propagation includes two main stages, forward and backward propagation, to achieve its modification of the neural status. During model training, each sample (e.g. a feature vector related to a single pixel) is entered into the input layer and the receiving node sums the weighted signals from all nodes to which it is connected in the former layer. In this regard, the input to a single node is weighted based on the following equation: Eq. (1) given: wij indicates the weight between node i and node j and o is the output from node i. The result from a given node is j is then computed from: Eq. (2) Function f is often a non-linear sigmoidal transformation that is used to weight the sum of inputs before it sends a signal to the next node. When the forward pass is finished, the performance of the resultant nodes are compared with their corresponding expected values. When a pattern is given to the network, each output node will differ from the preferred results, the difference is linked to the error in the network as well. This error is then propagated backward with weights for corresponding connections modified using a relation known as the delta rule: Eq. (3) Given: ÃŽÂ · is the learning rate of the model; ÃŽÂ ´ is the computed error; and ÃŽÂ ± is the momentum factor. This factor intends to avoid oscillation problems during the search for the minimum value on the error surface and is used to speed up the convergence procedure (Richards et al. 1999). The forward and backward passes continue until the network is properly trained for the characteristics of the targeted utility which in this research is the scenic beauty. Model training is aimed to retrieve the correct weights both for the connections between the input and hidden layers, and between the hidden and the output layer for the categorization of the unknown pixels. The input pattern is categorized to a class that possesses the node with the greatest activation level. The two training elements, automatic training and dynamic, can be employed to automatically execute the MLP. If one or both are used, the training procedure automatically restarts when the algorithm is highly oscillated or become trapped in a local minimum error surface. For each automatic restart of the model training procedure, one of the following items occurs to either learning rate or the sample used in the training procedure, or both. If only automatic training is selected and the first occurrence that the training procedure restarts, the starting weights are randomized. Through the next restarts, the weights are randomized and the learning rate is halved. If both automatic training and dynamic learning rate are chosen and the training restarts automatically, new samples are selected, the weights are randomized, and the learning rate splits in half. If only dynamic rate is chosen, and the learning rate is progressively lowered based on the number of iterations assigned and the start and end learning rates. For instance, if 10,000 iterations are specified and the model is configured with start rate of 0.1 and end rate of 0.001, it will divide 0.009 by 10,000 and lower the learning rate by the result at each iteration (Civco 1993). The acceptable error rate is related to the learning of the network and it is assessed based on the Root Mean Square (RMS error). Lower values of RMS error and higher values of total r2 shows the better fit of model. The MLP algorithm can produce both a hard and soft classifier. The hard classification output generates a discrete layer in which each cell belongs to a definitive category. Activation level maps, however, unlike the output of the hard classifier, are a series of images depicting a degree of membership for each pixel to each possible category. The output is set of images (one per class). Unlike the probability map, the sum of values for any location will not necessarily sum to 1. This is because the results from the neural network are acquired through standardizing the signal values in the range of 0-1 with the activation equation. Larger values imply a higher membership degree of the membership belonging to that corresponding category. The computation of the hard classification result is on the basis of the activation level maps. Data used for aesthetic suitability modelling through MLP method In the MLP analysis of the targeted area, multiple of factors were considered as input layers. Due to the characteristics of Gorgan City, a set of urban and natural criteria was used to model its landscape aesthetic values. These criteria were outlined during previous studies performed in our research area included gardens and agricultural lands (Othman et al, 2015; Mobargheie and Torbati 2014), tree type diversity, vegetation density (Aminzadeh et al, 2014; Weiqi et al, 2014; Chen et al, 2014; Kremer et al, 2016; Martina et al, 2016), topographic diversity (Arrowsmith 2001), buildings height and density (Weiqi et al. 2014; Chen et al. 2014), forest and urban parks (Ayad 2005; Weiqi et al. 2014), ancient sites and squares, refuges and boulevards (Bahrainy 1999; Aminzadeh et al. 2014). The GIS layers of gardens and agricultural lands, parks, squares, boulevards and refuges were obtained from the land use map maintained by the Gorgan municipality. The values of cells within these layers, together with ancient sites, were standardized using a user-defined function and based on the experts opinions. Whereas the relationship between the map value and fuzzy membership did not follow a certain function (e.g. linear, J-shaped or Sigmoidal), the user-defined function was the most applicable function and the user could reclass the map in the standard range. The ancient sites layer was obtained from Department of Cultural Heritage, Crafts and Tourism of Golestan province. The tree type for the study area consisted of six categories of tree communities (scale 1:25,000). Pattern analysis (with window size of 3 ÃÆ'- 3 pixels = 8100 m2) was applied as a filter to count the number of various classes inner a square vicinity of the central cell. Those pixels with three or more different categories in their vicinity were chosen to represent the diversity of a given location for its tree types. By using a Landsat TM image for the study area for 2012, vegetation density was calculated using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) formula: Eq (4) NDVI is a widely used graphical indicator that can be used for detecting vegetative land cover. This index can be calculated based on red and near-infra-red (Xred, Xnir) spectral bands of Landsat image as equation 4 (McFeeters 1996). The layer was standardized using a symmetrical linear function having inflection values as: a=2879, b=5795, c=7595 and d=9545 (Fig. 4). Figure.(4) As the graph shows, by increasing the vegetation density (that is increasing NDVI values) to the point b, scenic value of landscape increases, then in a specific area remains constant (point c) then over increasing of the vegetation density due to restrictions in visibility detracts from scenic value of landscape. The building height and density layer was produced using the current status map of building density provided by the Gorgan municipality. Using a monotonically decreasing linear function in order to determine classification, this layer was standardized. The landscape aesthetic value was therefore decreased by increasing the building height and density, due to the viewshed being blocked. In the spatial input factors, a topographic diversity layer was also included. To determine this layer, a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of the research area was acquired from National Cartographic Centre of Iran. A surface shape categorisation was performed on a DEM layer, which consisted of multiple topographic features: peak, flat, ravine, pit, ridge, saddle, slope hillside, saddle hillside, convex hillside, concave hillside and inflection hillside. The categorized layer was then analysed using a mode filter (window size of 3 ÃÆ'- 3 pixels) to specify a new score to the central cell based on most frequent values within the window. Then, a filter size of 7 ÃÆ'- 7 pixels was used to count the number of various categories within the neighbourhood of a central pixel to achieve the final map. This layer demonstrates the most diversified locations in terms of topographic features. The layer was standardized using a monotonically increasing linear function, whereby categories with highe r diversity got the higher score in the standardised value. Fig. 5 portrays factor layers used for aesthetic suitability mapping in this study. Figure (5) After preparing required inputs, the MLP model was configured according to the following data: Input variables: number of input variables = 8 (standardized factor maps) Input specifications: training points file = a raster map of 164 points, which retains the location of 164 attractive (99) and non-attractive (65) spots | maximum training pixels used = 200 | maximum testing pixels used = 200 Network topology: input layer nodes: 8 (equals to the number of input data) | output layer nodes = 1 (continuous surface of aesthetic suitability) | hidden layers =1 | hidden layer nodes = 16 Training parameters: the dynamic learning rate was employed | start learning rate = 0.01 | end learning rate = 0.001 | Momentum factor = 0. 5 | sigmoid constant a = 1.0 Stopping criteria: root mean square (RMS) error = 0.01 | iterations = 10,000 Output function = sigmoidal Once the model was trained, its performance was evaluated by plotting training RMS versus testing RMS during 10,000 model iterations. Lower values for testing error during iterations indicates proper training of the model, and therefore, it can be used to produce aesthetic suitability surface. Data processing for SLEUTH modeling For the SLEUTH modeling undertaken in this study, four urban extent years depicting the distribution of manmade features over time, two layers of the transportation network for two different time periods, one excluded aesthetics layer from urbanization, slope and hillshade layers were used. These input data layers were prepared by the integrated application of geographic information systems and remote sensing. As a model requirement, all binary urban/non-urban layers were stretched linearly and converted into a GIF format. The urban and transportation layers were created based on Landsat MSS and TM images for the years 1987, 1992, 2000 and 2010. These were then used to predict the expansion of Gorgan in 2030. Using a 30-m digital elevation model (DEM), slope percent and hillshade layers were derived. For the first and second modeled scenarios, hydrographical networks (rivers, dams and wetlands), dense forests and roads were used as excluded layers from urban growth. For the third sce nario, the aesthetic layer was added as an exclusory layer. These are shown in Fig. 6. Figure (6) Model calibration SLEUTH is a CA-based model in which five coefficients (diffusion, breed, spread, slope and road gravity) control four types of growth rules including new spreading center growth, spontaneous growth, edge growth and road gravity growth (Jantz et al. 2014). In addition, the straightforward calibration method applied by SLEUTH makes it adaptable to any particular geographic area over time (Clarke et al. 1996). In order to show the relative importance, each coefficient has a dimensionless value ranging between 0 (least important) to 100 (most important). During the calibration process, the form of urban expansion was detected via the four growth rules. The prediction of the model was based on the best range of refined coefficients derived from the calibration step. Table (1) shows the relationships between growth types and growth coefficients. Table (1) The main assumption of the SLEUTH model is based on the inherent pattern of urban dynamics whereby the city will witness the same growth in the future based on its historical trend in the past (Clarke et al. 1997). During the calibration process, the model seeks to derive the best range for each coefficient to enable better simulation based on local historical data (Silva and Clarke 2002). SLEUTH model benefits from a stochastic computation algorithm known as the Monte Carlo method. The model utilizes Monte Carlo iterations stochastically to generate multiple simulations of urban growth so parameters are standardized in a range between 0 and 100. These inputs reflect the relative contribution of each parameter to the dynamics of urban growth in the study area (Sakieh et al. 2014b). Finally, by using the best set of derived coefficients from three steps (coarse, fine and final) of calibration, the model was executed for the simulation of the historical data set. The number of Monte Ca rlo iterations support the robustness of final coefficients to run the prediction part of the model (Candau 2002; Jantz et al. 2004; Sakieh et al. 2014b). For the coarse calibration step, the default parameter values from the sample calibration scenario were employed. Five Monte Carlo iterations were specified for the coarse calibration phase, and growth parameters were set at their widest range of 0 25 100 as START, STEP and STOP values, respectively. A goodness of fit metric, known as the Optimal SLEUTH Metric (OSM) will provide the most robust results for SLEUTH calibration. The OSM is the product of the compare, population, edges, clusters, slope, X-mean, and Y-mean metrics (Dietzel and Clarke 2007). These seven metrics range between 0 and 1 and are multiplied together to calculate the OSM. The iterations are then sorted based on this metric and the best ranges of performing coefficients are chosen for the subsequent calibration stage. Applying the OSM metrics of the best perf orming iterations, the five multipliers were refined and reduced for use in the fine calibration step. The fine calibration step was executed through full resolution input layers in eight Monte Carlo iterations. Based on OSM values, the ranges for the five growth parameters in SLEUTH were further narrowed for the final phase of the calibration mode, which used 10 Monte Carlo iterations. Finally, the ranges for averaging values of the five coefficients of urban development in SLEUTH were set and the averaging was run for 100 Monte Carlo iterations. Model prediction After the calibration and performance validation of the model, the prediction step was executed using the entire data coverage and 100 Monte Carlo iterations. Prediction of the model was based on the initial seed year of the current urban pattern, using those refined values of coefficients. The output of the SLEUTH model is a continues surface in which each cell has a probability value to become an urbanized space in the future. This map is produced for every year including the first year (1987) to the last year (2030). There are three different methods used to simulate the expansion of urban area under different scenarios in the SLEUTH model. In the first method, best-à ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ t multipliers derived from the calibration phases can be altered (Leao et al. 2004; Rafiee et al. 2009) and consequently the growth rules will change. In the second method, the excluded layer is weighted through a continuous range of resistance values against urbanization to show that even cells within the excluded layer have the potential to be urbanized under different probabilities (Oguz et al. 2007; Jantz et al. 2010; Mahiny and Clarke 2012, 2013). In the third method, the constraints of self-organization can be modià ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ed (Yang and Lo 2003; Xi et al. 2009). In this study, the first and the second methods were applied for two scenarios. The coefficients were altered in the MUG and AUG scenarios and an aesthetic suitability map of the study area was also used as an extra excluded layer in the AUG scenario. In th is case, the historical trend of the urban growth and two different scenarios were forecasted (Table 2). The adopted scenarios in this study used additional information regarding the study area and its development in the past. In addition, it was acknowledged that land use plans are mostly controlled by master plans for cities derived from regional land use planning (Makhdoum 2001; Dezhkam et al. 2014). The adopted scenarios were set up according to assumptions of uncontrolled and controlled growth, which allows decision makers to construct a quantitative comparative basis for evaluation of different growth alternatives. After calibration of the model, scenarios were introduced to model urban growth to the year 2030 by using two methods of parameter modification and the inclusion of the hydrology, dense forest and transportation exclusion layers in the first two scenarios as well as aesthetic exclusion layers in the third scenario. Table (2) The first scenario assumed that the present pattern of urban growth will be maintained in the future, and therefore, the originally derived parameters were used. The first exclusion layer including hydrographical networks, dense forests and roads were used for this. The prediction was conducted by means of the same resolution data and 100 Monte Carlos iterations. The second scenario used the same exclusion layer as the HUG scenario, but spread and breed coefficients were reduced (from 30 and 59 to 20 and 40 respectively) to dictate an infill urban development with the aim of protecting the immediate environment of the city against urbanization. The slope resistance coefficient was decreased to one-half of its original value, to reflect the current status of urbanization in Gorgan City which shows increasing development on steeper slopes. The third scenario (AUG) used the same coefficient values as those used for the MUG simulation, but the aesthetic suitability layer was used as an extra excluded layer to protect areas of high aesthetic value. The output from the SLEUTH model is a probability map, which shows the probability of each single pixel becoming urbanized. In order to produce a clear map that indicates future urbanized areas, a 90 % value was taken as a threshold to depict those cells which were considered most probable ones to become urbanized by 2030. [1] Brute Force refers to any of several problem-solving methods involving the evaluation of multiple possible answers (urban growth patterns) for model fitness.

Reynolds and Reynolds Essay

Reynolds & Reynolds Case Study The Reynolds and Reynolds case about team selling had very many positives and few negatives, and was a very well rounded and planned way for the American Ford Dealership to improve its customer service sector. First, I wanted to point out the effectiveness of team selling that the Reynolds team did well. They had three people comprise the team, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Wiltgen, and Mr. O’Neill. Sherman would pitch the plan to the dealership and discuss the reports with them, Wiltgen was the implementation guy, meaning that he would set everything into place if and when they agreed on what plans to use, and O’Neill was the manager overseeing everything and was there for backup if needed. The three positions and roles they played stayed the same throughout the plan and they followed through with how they wanted to present. Another thing I feel was very effective was how Sherman brought to the attention of the dealership the â€Å"lost opportunities† they had and how more much profit they could have made the previous year. O’Neill confirmed these numbers, thus making a good team decision and presentation of the facts. Also, another effective point they made was bringing up the way the dealership’s competitors were doing business and what systems they were using. The one and only disadvantage I found during this team selling presentation was that Sherman took on multiple roles as the team leader and the business consultant, and the other two were basically just there on an as-needed basis. The Reynolds team also showed great execution to the client access, client education, and fulfillment perspectives. To satisfy client access, they split the client base into three categories: Actives (customers who have been in for service in the previous 6 months), Inactives, and New Customers. Splitting customers into these categories made it easy for the dealership to see who is coming in for service, who should be notified they are due for service, and those new customers they still want to target. They executed client education/ persuasion by creating the â€Å"Preferred Customer Card† program. They also did this by implementing over 100 different types of coupons that can be easily customized to each individual customer by type of car, zip code, etc. and with the service reminder program where customers would be mailed letters, coupons, and notified via phone call that they are due for service or there was a deal going on for them. Fulfillment was achieved by the dealership choosing to implement the Direct Drive program and the service reminder program ideas that the Reynolds team had presented to them, and setting up future plans between the marketing firm and the car dealership.

What is Truly Happening with Communication Essay Topics

What is Truly Happening with Communication Essay Topics What is Really Going on with Communication Essay Topics As a means of expert communication by the medical care providers, it's imperative to comprehend the modal strengths of communication f the patient. The patient, when seeking personalized health help ought to present accurate info on the indicators and problems they are going through so the physician can give the proper diagnosis. Effective communication is attained when the patients can effectively translate what the medical care provider says by means of action and once the doctor can relate to the demands of the individual. Communication in the healthcare industry can fluctuate based on the individual one is working with. Communication Essay Topics Secrets That No One Else Knows About The standard of information transmitted through technological method of communication may at times be questionable. Firstly, you can want to contemplate barriers to communication. Others might have the cognitive ability to accomplish this, but their signals can be difficult to recognise because of physical or sensory difficulties. The end result of effective communication from management is efficient and efficient small business performance. With respect to the effectiveness of communication, it is important that the ethical characteristics of the communication are given due consideration. There are many types of communication in an organization, formal and informal. Where norms bring about the achievement of the therapeutic objectives, goals ought to be promoted. Communication can frequently be improved by identifying the acceptable media. Visual communication is a strong communication media and is frequently overlooked. International communication was achieved through the evolution of emails and social media services that have been used by thousands of people worldwide. Verbal communication could be in oral or written form. Finally, communication ought to be effective. Once it becomes negative it may be a challenge to regain positive communication methods. Besides that, in the event the communication involves a lousy news, it shouldn't be given directly. Two-way communication is a lot more powerful than one-way communication. How to Find Communication Essay Topics As a result, if work doesn't proceed in line with the set standards and targets, the very best management knows whom to question or reprimand. An organization can be seen as a communication system. Communication is a significant asset that is used well can help an organization achieve its objectives. It is crucial to have a good two way communication between your team, organization and maybe even family members so you can deliver your message and also receive an opportunity to learn their apt reaction. In order that will help you to narrow down a fantastic topic or title for your essay, the following suggests various parts of advice, and including a list of interesting ideas which you may desire to use. There are many varieties of essays, it isn't difficult to drop an eye on all your writing assignments. While each journal samples essay is completely free, a customized essay is quite affordable. Two way communications also hold relevance in the example of face to face along with telephonic interviews when both the interviewer along with the candidate are needed to maintain healthy, direct in addition to active communication with one another. It's always crucial for a writer to create thorough studying to collect evidence with respect to the state of communication at the moment. However you communicate, make certain there is both talking and listening going on and that you take some time to thoroughly consider what's being said to you. When there's an urgent issue which demands a fast choice, an individual can have the ability to reach a consensus quicker and better. Communication essays are those which delve into someone's interactions along with interchanges. Globalization is also due to communication. One of the main strategies of managing conflict is Unite. The above mentioned examples would have clearly illustrated the value of communication abilities. Different applicable kinds of communication is going to be looked into besides discussing ways in which communication in the workplace may be improved to boost organizational productivity. Improving communication in the workplace Different ways can be used to ensure improved and effective communication at work.

Bullying And Cyberbullying - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 3 Words: 871 Downloads: 2 Date added: 2019/02/15 Category Society Essay Level High school Topics: Bullying Essay Cyber Bullying Essay Did you like this example? Bullying occurs on a regular basis in today’s society. A bully is defined as, â€Å"a blustering, quarrelsome, overbearing person who habitually badgers and intimidates smaller or weaker people (Slonje, R., Smith, P. (2008)).† Bullying is a form of aggression of intentional behavior that is carried out by individuals, or sometimes groups of people towards an individual who is seen as weaker in comparison to the bully. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Bullying And Cyberbullying" essay for you Create order Bullying is a systematic abuse of power. It does not matter what age a person is, bullying does not discriminate against anyone. Some types of bullying are obvious to spot while others can be harder to see. It is easy to see physical bullying because it can include hitting or kicking another person. Opposed to cyber bullying where it is far more difficult to spot, because it is done by using technology such as smart phones or on computers. Smart phone usage has increased and will continue to, causing cyberbullying to become more prevalent if it is not addressed. Although it might be hard to believe, cyberbullying can be just as harmful to someone as physical bullying. It has the potential of hurting one’s self-image, and in extreme cases it can lead to suicide. (Wang, J., Iannotti, R. J., Nansel, T. R. (2009)). Cyberbullying is mainly done on social media. Facebook prevails as the most frequently used social media platform on a weekly basis, but Instagram and Snapchat are slowly increasing in popularity (Cyberbullying Research Center. (2017, September 15)). Cyber bullying has become more present in today’s society. Because of the fast-growing technology industry, it has become harder to monitor and prevent. A survey of 84 students was conducted from two high schools in the United States. The students were between the ages of thirteen to eighteen years old. Over the last school year; 49% of the 84 students reported being electronically bullied victims. In addition, 21% reported being electronic bullies (Slonje, R., Smith, P. (2008). Cyberbullying can happen in multiple ways. There are many different types of cyberbullying behaviors such as, â€Å"flaming, harassment, outing and trickery, exclusion, impersonation, cyberstalking, and sexting (Giumetti, G. W., Kowalski, R. M. (n.d.)).† Because there are many different types of behaviors, this leads to multiple risk factors that are caused by bullying. For example, bullying can increase the risk for suicide. Cyberbullying is considered relentless, which increases the likelihood of anxiety and depression. Some states have chosen to prosecute citizens who bully for criminal harassment, which includes encouraging someone to kill themselves or commit suicide (StopBullying.gov. (n.d.). By being more aware of the rising issue, it can be easier to prevent future cyberbullying. Methods: For the purpose of this study, I will use a mixed methods approach. By combining both quantitative and qualitative methods it will allow the data to be strengthened by using both approaches. For example, the quantitative results will provide an over-all attitude of participants towards their knowledge of cyber bullying, while the qualitative results will allow the participants to provide their personal input on how cyberbullying as effected them or someone they know. Procedure: A survey of ten questions that should take no more than 30 minutes to complete will be made available to the willing participants. Each survey question will be designed on a scale ranging from â€Å"Strongly Disagree† at 1, to â€Å"Strongly Agree† at 5. Then there will be qualitative questions followed with a box below each question for participants to write their answers. The age demographic will be left open-ended so that participants could enter their age, rather than select from a category grouping. For example, instead of selected a category grouping of 18-25 years, the participant will simply enter their age in numbers. The questions on the quantitative study will be (1) Do you feel cyberbullying is an issue in your school/life? (2) Have you ever felt cyberbullied? (3) Have you ever cyberbullied anyone? (4) If you see someone being cyberbullied do you feel the need to stop it? (5) Do you feel social media applications (Facebook, Snapchat, ETC.) are harmful to people’s self-esteem? (6) Do you feel well informed about what to do if you see someone being cyberbullied online? (7) Have you ever been peer pressured into anything by someone? (8) Do you know who you could report to if you see someone being cyberbullied? (9) Do you feel comfortable reporting to at least one person about cyberbullying? (10) If you see someone being cyberbullied would do you feel the need to report it? On the qualitative portion of the study I will ask (1) What would you define cyberbullying as? (2) If you have seen cyberbullying what did you do/not do in the situation? (3) If you didnt report it, and were cyberbullied, why didnt you report it? (4) How often do you think cyberbullying happens? (5) What would you do if you noticed someone being bullied in school or online? Conclusion: From the results from the different methods, we would be able to see how much cyberbullying is present in the students’ lives. Because of the fast-growing technology in our society, cyberbullying is considered a â€Å"newer† type of bullying. Because it is new, there is not as much research done on the topic. By having more research done, officials might be able to prevent the event from escalating and raise awareness of this in schools.