Reflection Paper on Organizational Behavior Course Essay

When the Philippine Army (PA) gave me a Masteral Degree Scholarship, I was told to take a Human Resource Management (HRM) course. Since I chose to take my graduate course in UP Diliman {where I took my BA in Public Administration undergraduate course before going to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA)}, I enrolled in the School of Labor and Industrial Relations (SOLAIR) because they have an equivalent graduate course in HRM, which is the Master of Industrial Relations where I can specialize in Human Resource Development. The intent of my graduate study is to educate me with the latest trends, principles, procedures, programs, policies and concepts in HRM, and be able relate and apply them in the personnel management of the Philippine Army. Although the MIR at SOLAIR is more of the empowerment of labor, enlightened industrial relations and social justice, still there are courses that would be very useful and relevant for the Philippine Army. Among those relevant course is IR 213 or Organizational Behavior in Industrial Relations, which covers interactions of organization, individual and group in unions, management and government in IR situations, with emphasis on sociological, psychological and cultural factors. I took this elective course because when I saw the description of the course I immediately believe that this would be very relevant for me. I came from an organization that is among the largest single employer in the country, which is the Philippine Army. We are more or less 85,000 strong, and with that number cultural and social diversity is a certainty. Thus for an officer like me who would be handling a large number of personnel in the future, a course in organizational behavior would be essential. Although I already took a similar course in my BS major in Management at the PMA, still that is an undergraduate course and I believe the level of teaching and approach would be higher, and that the focus would be more of the professional level since my classmates would be graduates students many of whom are already practicing their professions. At the initial part of the course I was a little bit overwhelmed by the volume of readings required for a three hour once a week class with a quiz on said readings at the beginning of each class. Although I was not that surprised since my instructor for said course, who is Prof. Ronahlee A. Asuncion, PhD, or â€Å"George†, happens to be my instructor also in my IR 202 Class the previous semester where the same technique was used in our class. But as with my previous class, I have learned to appreciate this style of â€Å"semi† forcing in effect each student to really read all the readings. Indeed somehow that â€Å"torture† like shock for the second time around, was replaced with my curiosity and enthusiasm as the semester went by. Unlike my undergraduate course in organizational behavior, where I never really had much appreciation, maybe because it’s more of the theoretical level, this course now really enabled me to get involved on how it is in the real situation. My experience with the Philippine Army, especially in my field assignments in the Visayas and Mindanao, enabled me to handle from 30-100 men in a combat area, initially as a platoon leader and later on as a company commander. During this time I have to be a leader, adviser, counselor, brother, father, friend and commander all at the same time. Although I am not really that good or efficient on the roles I just mentioned, since it’s my first time to be assigned in the field, perhaps my leadership training at PMA and other experiences in life allowed me to somehow overcome my shortcomings and finish my tour of duty with flying colors. But looking back at that episode in my career and as I relate those that were discussed in IR 213, I just wondered if I had taken this course prior to that experience, would I have been a better leader of men and a more efficient commander of a unit. It is common knowledge that the military is a highly regimented organization, wherein everybody must strictly obey orders from commanders, if not you will be punished under the articles of war or the military version of the penal code. So in a way many would say that it is very easy to manage a military unit or organization since everyone must follow orders, but this is easier said than done. In my experience, especially in my field assignment in a combat unit in a critical area, as a platoon leader I had my initial challenge as an officer. â€Å"Greenhorn† as I am, leading a group of majority veteran soldiers, wherein their previous area of operations enabled them to be involved in combat encounters with the communist insurgents with a more experienced and senior platoon leader, it is like a rookie trying to be a go to guy in a basketball team, where I have to earn their respect first before being accepted truly as their leader. Yes, they will follow your orders, but there wi ll be times where this rule will be challenged especially in combat situations. Now here lies the relevance of the course on organizational behavior. Knowledge in human personality, perception and attitude would indeed be very important in this situation, although this is well covered in my undergraduate course in management, the ideas of Fred Luthan’s on the chapter on Personality, Perception and Employee Attitude; and Natasha Marinkovic Grba’s (Lisa Matthewman, et al. â€Å"Work Psychology†, Chapter 3) chapter on Personality and Individual Differences refreshes my previous knowledge on the topic and gave me new incite on the nurture-nature debate on personality, the â€Å"Big Five† personality traits, the Myers-Brigg types, organizational commitment, and organizational citizenship behaviors. I really can relate on the issue whether personality is genetic or influenced by the environment. As I was observing then the individual personality and attitudes of my men, I can really distinguish what part of their personality and attitude were really is a result of their training in the military, so I have no problem with that since most of that pertains to discipline and technical expertise as a soldier. Now the problem lies on what other individual personality and attitude that may have been inborn or environment influenced that could affect my relationship with them. Although their initial indifference on my leadership is a group learned attitude, wherein it’s a kind of an initiation period where I must first pass before being accepted in the group, still I have to consider their individual personality, perceptions and attitudes in dealing with them individually. I consider the topic on organizational commitment essential, since this pertains to the very essence of a military organization. As defined by Luthans, organizational commitment is a strong desire to remain a member of a particular organization, a willingness to exert high levels of effort on behalf of the organization and a definite belief in, and acceptance of, the values and goals of the organization. In short loyalty to the organization is what’s keeping discipline and order in the military organization. Perhaps a lecture on this organizational commitment to soldiers on my future unit assignment would be inspirational and reassuring for this will strengthen their zeal as soldiers and allegiance to fight against the enemies of the Filipino people and the state. Organizational Citizenship Behaviors (OCBs) is also very much military in nature. Everything that are ideal behaviors in a military organization may be considered as organizational citizenship behaviors. Actually military discipline, which is discipline or following an order in the absence of a commander, is part of these so called OCBs, and this really what differentiate the military organization from other organizations, and what makes it very efficient and effective. A review and reorientation of the OCBs in the military would also be very important and fundamental in keeping the military highly motivated and committed to the call of the service. Thus I really appreciate being reoriented in these OCBs, for this will also be included on my future lectures to my would be soldiers in my next tour as a field unit commander. Another very relevant part of the course where I can really relate to is on the topic on stress. A soldier’s job is very demanding both physically and psychologically, and this what makes it very stressful. Identifying these sources of stress is crucial in enabling commanders like me to provide opportunities for my men to cope up with stresses that they would encounter on the job. Fred Luthans pointed out on the Chapter on Stress and Conflict of his book on Organizational Behavior, (1) that stress is not simply anxiety, (2) that stress is not simply nervous tension, and (3) that stress is not necessarily something damaging, bad or to be avoided. Luthans said anxiety operate solely in the emotional and psychological sphere, whereas stress operates there and also in the physiological sphere. Thus stress may be accompanied by anxiety, but the two should not be equated. It’s good that Luthans clearly differentiate anxiety with that of stress, because soldiers sometimes only suffers from anxiety and at times real stress, knowing what is from the other enables me to provide the appropriate approach or method for them to cope up with either one or both. Luthans also said that like anxiety, nervous tension may result from stress, but the two are not the same. He further said that unconscious people have exhibited stress, and some people may keep it â€Å"bottled up† and not reveal it through nervous tension. Soldiers do suffer nervous tension, thus I must consider the fact that stress could complicate things that may result in a more damaging situation than just a simple stress for the soldier. Luthans further pointed out that eustress is not damaging or bad and is something people should seek out rather than avoid. He mentioned that the key is how the person handles the stress; distress may be prevented or can be effectively controlled. As mentioned there are stresses that soldiers encounter that are positive in nature and thus may not have to be avoided, and furthermore negative stress may be prevented or effectively controlled by using coping up methods. Survival in combat situation is a skill that every soldier must possess. This skill is the reason why the PA or the entire military organization is very strict in its recruitment of soldiers, neuro-psycho test is one very stringent examination wherein it must be proven that the recruit is psychologically prepared in becoming a soldier. I also mentioned that I must also be a counselor to my men. Since all of us are away from our families and civilian friends, and at times we are in combat situations, stress will definitely be a problem if it will not be addressed. John W, Newstrom mentioned on the chapter on Stress and Counseling from his book â€Å"Human Behavior at Work†, that stress affects performance; it can either be helpful or harmful to job performance, depending on its level. Thus to enable commanders like me to maximize soldiers performance, I must consider stresses that tends to increase performance or avoid stresses that tends to decrease it. Indeed stress management is a must in every organization, Newstrom mentioned that in attempting to manage stress, individuals have three broad options (1) is to prevent or control it, (2) escape from it, or (3) learn to adapt to it (handle its symptoms). Adapting these steps will enable commanders to reduce or eliminate stressors for soldiers. Newstrom mentioned about social support, which he defined as the network of helpful activities, interactions and relationships that provides an employee with the satisfaction of important needs. That’s where commanders like me come in; first I had to provide the necessary opportunity for my soldiers to have social interactions with fellow soldiers and at times with the civilian populace around our area of assignment; and then I must also be available always to provide counseling to my soldiers as the need arises. Newstrom mentioned about relaxation and sabbaticals both designed to give soldiers a peace of mind and time to somehow escape the world of combat that we are living in. We regularly schedule field trips and social events that soldiers engage into when situation allows it. Rest and recreation for soldiers are periodic where every soldier has the opportunity to go home to their families in a certain period of time. Another issue I am concerned with regarding stress and counseling is the debriefing of soldiers after a combat operation wherein they are exposed to violent actions and at times incurring casualties in our ranks. During my time in the field this so called after operation debriefing to soldiers does not exist, every soldier is just expected to recover psychologically on their own, since they are supposed to be psychologically prepared when they entered the military service. As defined by the handbook on military combat and operational stress, traumatic stress injuries are literal damage to the brain and mind due to an experience involving real or threatened death or serious injury, or its aftermath. Not everyone who is exposed to real or threatened death or its aftermath is damaged by that experience; most people are not. But everyone is susceptible to experiencing intense terror, horror, or helplessness when confronted with their own or their peers’ mortality, and each soldier’s susceptibility varies over time due to the accumulation of stress from other causes. No one knows how common traumatic stress injuries are among soldiers engaged in combat operations because most are minor, more like bruises than fractures, and most heal quickly on their own without help from others. Even more serious traumatic stress injuries tend to be disabling for only a matter of seconds or minutes, although completely normal functioning may not be regained f or days, weeks, or months. Although now this problem is being addressed by the PA, wherein support to field units on these matters are increasing. I consider this issue as very crucial one since we have been witness to several fatal effect of combat and operational stress that led to several deaths and injuries by soldiers running amok in barracks or at home killing members of their families and neighbors. Newstrom said that counseling is discussion with an employee of a problem that usually has emotional content in order to help employee cope with it better. Its goal is improved mental health and it is performed by both managers and professional counselors. In a similar fashion that appropriate leader actions for managing traumatic stress injuries are analogous to those for managing physical injuries in soldiers, including (1) applying psychological first aid for affected individuals, (2) applying psychological first aid for affected units, (3) assessing the need for professional care, and (4) monitoring heal ing and mentoring back to full health and readiness. Another relevant topic in IR 213 that I want to emphasize is on organizational development (OD). According to Newstrom organizational development is the systematic application of behavioral science knowledge at various levels (group, intergroup and total organization) to bring about planned change. Whereas according to the book of Lisa Matthewman, et al in their book, ‘Work Psychology†, strategic change is concerned with broad, long-term organizational issues, which involves OD programs designed to change vision, mission or corporate philosophy on matters such as growth, quality, innovation and values. It is this kind of OD that the Philippine Army is undergoing right now. The PA has crafted the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) which is a transformation program that highlights the commitment of the PA to pursue genuine reforms founded on good governance and performance excellence. Its primary purpose is to transform the Army into a more capable, responsive, reliable, and professional organization committed to its mandate. This was not made by one man for one unit. This was created by several people representing different units for the Philippine Army and the people it serves. As mentioned by Newstrom OD requires transformational leaders. These are managers who initiate bold strategic changes to position the organization for its future. They articulate a vision and promote it vigorously; just like what senior commanders in PA are doing under the direction of the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, the PA is promoting a newly crafted vision that is â€Å"By 2028, to be a world-class Army that is a source of national pride†. I am also part of these so called transformational leaders, where I am tasked to take up a Masters Degree in HRM and be able to contribute in the transformation of the personnel management of PA. Also it is very important to take note of the sources of resistance to change, thus my part in making sure that the resistance among the personnel of the army would be addressed so that complications arising from these resistance would be avoided. For years, the Philippine Army has been viewed negatively by the very people it aims to serve. But times are changing and so are the needs of the nation. Although war fighting is still the core function of the Armed Forces, the Army is increasingly expected to perform non-traditional roles such as disaster response, humanitarian assistance, peacekeeping operations, and support to national development. Thus I believe the topic on organizational development would equip me somehow to enable me to relate them in my attempt to contribute in the area of Human Resource Development for the PA. And finally, the experiences that were shared by my classmates in class is priceless, for as a military and government worker, their opinions and shared actual on the job know how both in the private and public sector setting, has given me better understanding of theories applied to actual practice. Indeed this makes graduate school better, since many of the students are practicing professionals, wherein their shared work experiences and higher level of opinion on relevant matters would be an additional learning experience aside from what the instructor would be teaching the students. It has been a long while for me since I returned back to civilian school, and I’m glad I returned to my Alma Mater for it brought back memories and pride in my being a UP student, I’m not disappointed with this course and as in the other courses that I took in SOLAIR, for it really educated me on matters that I really need to. My work as an officer in the military allows me to interact wit h many military personnel and my rank allows me to occupy position that is managerial in nature thus this course on organizational behavior has equipped me with the knowledge that I have just enumerated. I believe the objective of the course has been achieved, and I do hope that it will continue to do so for the other students that would be taking this course.

Math Mayan Calendar Essay

The Mayan Calendar is a system of calendars in Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, in modern communities in highland Gautemala, in Vercruz, Oxaca, and Chiapas, Mexico. The calendar is filled with mathematics and a huge math system, but it is not exactly like the math system we use today. The math system hidden inside the Mayan Calendar is called the Vigesimal System. How does the Vigesimal System work? The numbers represent what symbols in the math system? This things have been in the question a long time we still are studying the Mayan Calendar to this day; which was made approximately 5,000 years ago.The Vigesimal System began by the people in the Mayan civilization counting on their fingers and toes. Since we have ten toes and ten fingers which equals twenty, so instead of having the base unit as ten, the count was done with a base twenty system. The System goes by twenty units for example it goes: 1, 20, 400, 8000, 16000, etc. While are Decimal system goes by ten units so it goes: 1, 10, 100, 1000, 10000, etc. This means it has twenty posibble digits for a placeholder [0-19], while the decimal system we use today only has ten possible digits for a placeholder [0-9].So the numbers 3, 30, and 300 would be represented as three, then three times twenty, then three times twenty times twenty, or simply three times four-hundred, which is twenty squared. So in Mayan math the number 123 doesn’t mean you have one 100, two 10’s, and three 1’s, rather it means you have one 400, two 20’s, and three 1’s (which in our mathematical system that would be 443). So say we want to set up an equation and we set thirty-one equal to something and we used the Vigesimal System, it would look like this: 31=20+11, and this is because this mathematical system goes by twenty units.The Mayan math makes it so instead of positions having a ten-fold, it actually has a twenty-fold. So the positioning system has it so the higher places get multiplied by twentyâ€℠¢s instead of ten’s. Even though it seems like twenty is the only number that the Vigesimal System deals with, it is not, the number five also has a big role. This is because eon each side of our hand and toes we have five fingers and toes. The number five is a multiple of the twenty base unit system, so that adds on to the number five’s significance.Located inside this big mathematical system you only find three symbols for all the numbers. These symbols once again are based on the fact that the Vigesimal System is based on twenty units [0-19]. The three symbols are the dot, bar, and the shell. The dot-worth one unit, the bar- worth five units, and the shell- symbolizes the zero. The zero was actually founded by the Mayan people while in the process of making the Mayan Calendar and is one of the most important numbers that were ever distinguished. These symbols can be combined to represent any number.This Chart below is going to show how the symbols are used to repres ent the twenty placeholders [0-19]: When you use the Vigesimal System there is a rule that only the higher places get multiplied by twenty’s instead of ten’s in the Decimal System we use. In the table below the number 168,421 is going to be compared in the terms it would be expressed between the Decimal System and the Vigesimal System.When writing the numbers they can be written vertically or horizontally, When you write in vertical writing the bar that is worth five units is placed horizontally with a dot worth one unit on top of the bar. When writing them vertically they grow from the base up. With the horizontal writing the bar is placed vertically and the dots go to their left and higher positions grow left of the first entry. When writing vertical, to write a twenty a zero is placed in the first position (base) with a dot on top of it in the second position. The dot in this situation means one unit of the second order which will equal twenty. To write twenty-one t he zero would change to a dot and the subsequent numbers the original 19 count will be in the first position. As in turn they reach 19 again they get another dot is added to the second position.Any number higher than nineteen units in the second position is written using units in the third position. All units of the third position are always worth twenty time twenty, 400. To write the number 401 a dot would go in the first position, a zero in the second position, and a dot would go in the third position too. The numbers even higher than the third position would be multiplied by twenty again. The chart shown below shows an example of the â€Å"Mathematical Count†: Like any other thing the â€Å"mathematical count† does have one exception, it is called the â€Å"calendric count† which is when they give the third position a value equal to 360 instead of 400, but the higher positions follow the regular pattern, being multiplied by twenty.The Mayan Long Count inside the Mayan Calendar is another thing that evolves aroung the Vigesimal System, so it is based around the twenty units. The first position counted single days, called â€Å"k’in†. The second position is called the â€Å"uinal, which is equivalent to twenty â€Å"k’in†. The twenty â€Å"uinal† does not equal the third position; it makes an 18-fold jump instead so that 100 or â€Å"tun† in the calendar represents eightenn times twenty or 360 days. That is slightly over 365 days which is the amount of days we have in a year.This then makes a twenty-fold jump increase, so 1000 or one â€Å"k’atun† is expressed by the value 20 x 18 x 20, 7,200 days; which is a little less than twenty years. The next position is expressed by 20 x 20 x 18 x 20, 144,000 days which equals one â€Å"b’ak’tun†, a little less than 400 years. When using the Decimal System, they go as high as 9, but in the Vigesimal System  they can go all the way up to 19. So mathematically when we write Mayan numbers we use decimal points to show each digit’s position. We write 1.17.19 to represent the Mayan number that equals one â€Å"tun† (360 days), plus seventeen â€Å"uinal† (20 days), plus nineteen â€Å"k’in† which has a total of 719 days. The Mayan Long Count only reached 12.19.19.17.19 on December 20th.The way the Mayan people made this calendar with the Vigesimal System was one of the most incredible things ever. Them using the twenty based system has made a lot of research been done to investigate the math held inside the Mayan Calendar. Being able to use math 5,000 years ago has shown some determination and intelligence. The math held inside this Mayan Calendar may have made the whole world change, and the mathematics of the Vigesimal System hidden in the Mayan Calendar has shown how math can change the world. It also shows how math is used in everyday life and how if people were n ot using math a lot of things would not be here to this very day and it shows multiple ways math effects people in their everyday life.

The Scientific Revolution Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Scientific Revolution - Assignment Example Starting by Galileo, he is one of the famous astronomers who attributed greatly to the concept of the effect of gravity in space. He found that the acceleration due to gravity does not depend on the mass of the object being pulled. To make it clearer, we can say that a very small satellite feels the same acceleration from the Sun as another huge satellite if both are at the same distance from the Sun. So, the gravitational acceleration is proportional only to the mass of the gravitating object and the distance from it, not to the mass of the aggravated object. This rule is the reason behind the feeling of `weightless', felt by astronauts orbiting the Earth. To put it clearer, astronauts, in the orbit, are continually 'falling' toward the Earth because of gravity. Also, other smaller and bigger objects inside the shuttle that orbits the earth are accelerating toward the Earth at the same rate. This results in the fact that all these objects in the shuttle remain at the same position r elative to each other, and they seem as if they are 'floating' around inside the shuttle (Strobel). In this context, it has to be mentioned that Galileo’s new astronomical theories had their great impact on the church. In particular, the scientific discoveries made by Galileo have paved the way for the science-religion conflict that shaped this era.

Audi A6 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Audi A6 - Essay Example It’s available in the saloon and wagon configurations, providing an appealing combination of luxury, technology and responsive handling dynamics. Exterior Outside, the  A6  resembles a downsized version of  Audi's full-size  A8  sedan. The exteriors features more extensive use of aluminum components, with day time running lights, body color front and rear bumpers, halogen headlight with projector beam lenses and remote sun proof tinted glass. Its external dimensions include 73.8 inches width, overall length of 193.9 inches, 3,682 lbs weight, and overall height of 57.8 inches, 114.7 inches wheelbase, a front track 64.1 inches, rear track (63.7 inches) and curb to curb turning circle 39.0ft. Other notable features include a paneled under floor to direct airflow under the vehicle, and the use of striking matte-finish wood inlays. A wraparound dashboard and the most recent generation of  Audi's instinctive MMI system are built-in as standard. Performance The A6 is avai lable in five different flavors: the A6 Premium 2.0, the A6 Premium Plus 2.0, the A6 Premium 3.0, the A6 Premium Plus 3.0 and the A6 Prestige 3.0. â€Å"The engine transmits power to the front wheels via a constantly variable transmission† (audi.com) returning fuel economy records of 25 mpg and 33 mpg in the city and on the highway respectively. To ensure traction for all weather conditions, the A6 comes exclusively with Audi's valued Quattro all-wheel-drive system which makes use of an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It’s fitted with standard equipment that include eight-way power adjustable leather seats with memory functionality, Bluetooth  Smartphone integration, triple-zone automatic climate control, keyless start, a four-spoke multifunction steering wheel and a premium audio system with an iPod input jack. The 17-inch alloy wheels and Audi drive select enables drivers to set vehicle steering configurations, select transmission shift characteristics and customize engine response. Drivers have the choice of Auto, Comfort, Dynamic or Individual settings. The A6 Premium Plus also has a 40-GB hard drive voice-activated navigation system, Audi MMI touch handwriting recognition to interpret handwritten inputs, Audi connect which turns the car into a portable Wi-Fi hotspot and a parking assistance system with front and rear sensors. Optional Features The A6 Cold Weather Package comprises heated steering wheel as well as front and rear seats. The optional sport package incorporates a lower and firmer suspension, a three-spoke steering wheel with flappy paddle shifters and, depending on the trim level, special 18-, 19- or 20-inch wheels. The Driver Assistance Package integrates Audi pre sense plus, adaptive cruise control, and power folding, heated exterior side mirrors. Side Assist Package includes a blind spot monitoring system, power-folding mirrors and a pre safe system for altering the front and rear head commands to achieve maximum support inc ase an impending collision is identified. The Innovation Package also has a heads-up display, night vision assistance and LED headlights. Safety features All A6 models are equipped with dual front airbags, driver and front passenger knee air bags and optional Rear-passenger thorax side airbags. Other safety features include tire-monitoring system, traction and stability control systems and ABS with electronic brake-pressure distribution. Conclusion The Audi A6 model is near the top of the line for Audi products suitable

Operations Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 5

Operations Management - Essay Example In operation, technology is beneficial for handling and developing practices in both product and service distribution and comprehensive supply chain management. In present days, efficient process administration becomes essential for transitioning from traditional to modern industrial economy. The information flow related with the operational processes is a key motivation for employing more and more information technology (IT) based initiatives. The prime motive for implementing IT in operations management is to increase the speed, flexibility, dependability, and quality of operation procedures such as supply chain management, production management, quality management, and inventory management. IT can help to decrease the cost of excess time by reducing unnecessary operations in business (University of Virginia Darden School of Business, 2011). Technology in Operations Management The improvements in technology have changed the crucial features of operations management in several organ isations. Modern tools and technologies have been integrated in the plan and the operation of service and production systems. The ubiquity of IT including computers and internet has become obvious for many operations (Lari, 2002). Technology in Manufacturing Operations In current days, the technological advancements have presented new prospects for organizations to generate competitive advantage. Through employing technology in manufacturing procedure, organisations try to respond quicker to the requirements of customers, accomplish extensive selection of product offering and preserve high level of output. In the operations management of the manufacturing sector, technology can deliver exclusive benefit to organizations by providing superior products and services to the consumers. Technology can provide following benefits for manufacturing operations: Better machine operation: Technology based system can allow organisations to use machine to their highest capacity for manufacturing product faster Flexibility: Technology often improves the flexibility in arranging various works in an orderly way and it allows organisations to respond to the changes rapidly Simplicity of production change: Through technology, organisations can accommodate any modifications in production plan or procedure. Technology enables organisations to manage compound manufacturing operations with lesser effort and preferred quality Expansion of production: Technology helps organisations the flexibility to expand their production with response to the growing demand of market (Mahadevan, 2010). Analysis of Proctor & Gamble Proctor & Gamble which is one of the leading organisations in consumer products seeks to decrease the manufacturing expenses and increase the productivity of the organisation. To sustain in the leading position, Proctor & Gamble (P&G) needs to manufacture products quicker with less overhead expenses. It was necessary for minimizing the manufacturing cost of products. Thus, Proctor & Gamble had employed Predictive Adaptive Control (PAC) technology and ‘Overlapping Feed Technology’ in their manufacturing operations for achieving better speed and constant accuracy on production. P&G selected the Lima manufacturing facility for first implementation of those technologies to improve the material transfer procedure. As a result of PAC and

Comparative Poems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Comparative Poems - Essay Example He speaks as though he is under some kind of drug. He imagines that he hears nightingale singing in somewhere and not envious of the happiness, but he is happy listening to it â€Å"MY heart aches, and a drowsy numbness pains, My sense, as though of hemlock I had drunk, Or emptied some dull opiate to the drains.† (1-6). This part of the poem is saying how the person is feeling as if he is under some control which he cannot explain. On the other hand, Ode on a Grecian Urn â€Å"THOU still unravish’d bride of quietness, Thou foster-child of Silence and slow Time, Sylvan historian, who canst thus express† (1-5). The poet has a different feeling than with the first poem. He is actually saying the opposite feeling of happiness. Instead of beginning with how he feels, the voice is telling us what he is seeing. He is describing things very carefully and the reader becomes curious as he is about the thing that he is telling. The poem is directed actually praising the art work in the urn. Ode to a Nightingale is full of images of nature that the author has included. This is understandable simply because the poem is all about a thing of nature. A nightingale is a bird which is known for its beautiful singing voice. Included throughout the poem are common sights seen in nature such as flowers, grass, trees and leaves. The speaker describes where he is, what he is seeing and also what he is hearing. He tells of how the birds seem to be so happy in what they are doing and that their happiness comes from something more than just any one particular thing. But then the subject becomes serious toward the end with the speaker now talking about death. He is now speaking about death as though he is a person. â€Å"I have been half in love with easeful Death, Call'd him soft names in many a mused rhyme† (52-53). He is talking as if he actually knows death and unlike many people he is not afraid of it but is actually in love with it. There is also a sense that he is sweet to it and includes it in many of his poems. In Ode on a Grecian Urn, Keats is describing the picture in the urn which he is seeing. Unlike Ode to a Nightingale, he is really seeing an actual picture. He is saying how the people or gods, as he himself is not sure, will be forever doing what they are doing. There is the idea that they will be forever and even when everything in the world changes they will still be there kissing, making music and being happy. The scene will always be Spring and that will never change. He is also describing in the picture many scenes like what looks like a sacrifice in an altar where there is a priest and there is a woman with garlands on her. In this ode there is also a reminder about how people take art for granted. There is really no appreciation for beauty and something old as a picture in an urn reminds us of this because after many years it remains beautiful. â€Å"When old age shall this generation waste, Thou shalt remain, in m idst of other woe† (46-47). There are many similarities between the two poems besides having the same author and both being odes. The two also talks about envy. In Ode to a Nightingale, the author is saying he is not actually jealous of the happiness of the nightingale but in Ode on a Grecian Urn he is somewhat saying he envies how those in the picture will be young forever. Both also talks about music. In the first ode this is a central theme because the nightingale is all about music and

International sustainable business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

International sustainable business - Essay Example Over the years IBM is trying to make its products and services environmentally friendly. According to a report published by the Ceres investor Coalition in December 2008, IBM was ranked the top company for climate change strategy and practices among all major technology companies. IBM’s super computers were also ranked the most high speed and energy efficient in November 2008. Apart from these rankings, there are many other recognitions and awards given to IBM for being a true Green company. In 2009, IBM launched its â€Å"Ready for Energy and Environment† validation program for business partners. In this program, they had set criteria for business partners to make eco-friendly products. Only those partners who qualified the criteria partnered with them. IBM provides a Global Asset Recovery Service (GARS). It helps the consumers to easily dispose off unwanted technology. By this service, the waste does not pollute the environment. IBM has been reusing, remarketing and recycling computers for quite a long time now. IBM helps organizations to create a ‘green’ IT infrastructure by offering different products and services. IBM virtualization, Active Energy manager, IBM System z mainframe servers, IBM system x servers, and IBM Power systems are some of the products and services that it provides in order to improve power efficiency. IBM is no doubt the leading manufacturers of computing industry. But there are many other famous brands offering technology and computing services. Among the close competitors that IBM has, Hewlett Packard (HP) is one of the giants of technology. In the scenario of Green computing, HP is more advanced than IBM. According to CNNMoney.com, HP is ranked among the top 10 green giants- the only computer’s company in the list. HP has massive e-waste recycling plants, and it is trying to cut energy consumption more and more. HP’s own machines are 100 percent recyclable. They have various products that are

Is Charter School an Answer for Inner City Students A Study of Dissertation

Is Charter School an Answer for Inner City Students A Study of Inclusion Among Disadvantaged Black Male Students with Disabili - Dissertation Example    Charter schools are public schools in nature and are intended to improve the education system of any nation. They possess a degree of independence in that most of the times they charge little or no tuition and are open to any student who wishes to enroll in them. They are also non sectarian and do not discriminate against any student on the basis of any affiliation be it sex, religion, race or color. They may be funded by the local authority in which it is situated, through the state or federal revenue like other public schools. These charter schools also adhere to state and federal academic standards as a benchmark in their day to day activities.  The basic concept of a charter school therefore, is the exercise of increased autonomy in exchange for accountability to the relevant stakeholders. Charter schools are free to improvise ways of improving the general student performance and achievement through numerous ways. They might do this through offering longer school days or o perating hours. This is what is at times known as remedial classes in some jurisdictions. Here, students spend more hours in class exploring ways of excelling in whatever discipline they are engaged in or are undertaking. This may occur during extended hours during week days, weekends or even during vacations or holidays. The schools may also adjust the curriculum contrary to what is set by the government to provide the learners with more time on the important or core subjects that they need most for their studies. Charter schools may also create a unique school culture whereby a specific school may adopt specific themes such as performing arts, career readiness, classical education, global awareness or meeting the needs of black or autistic students (Betts and Hill, 2010). Recent research has found that inner city kids or under-served students, who attended charter schools in New York City for nine consecutive years, from kindergarten to eighth grade, would close most of the  "Scarsdale-Harlem† achievement gap. The research also found that charter school students in this study won school admission lotteries as compared to other students in other public schools in the state (Reardon, 2009). This is further led credence by a similar study that found that students attending charter high schools in Chicago and Florida had higher ACT scores, graduation rates and college entrance rates than their peers in traditional public schools (Booker, Gill, Zimmer and Sass, 2009) It is therefore true that charter schools are high achiever as they produce positive results in both elementary and middle schools. This therefore means that there should be improved participation of all stakeholders involved in the research about the viability of charter schools. This will require strong and better policy formulation that would eventually lead to high-quality public charter schools. (Betts and Tang, 2008) Inclusion of black male students with disabilities into charter sch ools is understood to mean the integration of the education of male students with disabilities alongside those that are leading a normal life through regular classroom attendance. This is prompted by the urge by different stakeholders such as the

DEVELOMENTAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY - METHODOLOGIES OF CHILDHOOD PREJUDICE Essay

DEVELOMENTAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY - METHODOLOGIES OF CHILDHOOD PREJUDICE - Essay Example vities of young children within the social setting in which they find themselves impress meanings upon them more profoundly than through their intellectual grasp of their surroundings (2003). Methods used by researchers have been chosen in order to probe the areas in which social conditioning occur, as well as to detect the social representations given different objects and interactions that can be found or are known to occur in different environments. Their experiments have captured empirically the results of this kind of social representation by facilitating children and adults’ precise designation of the gender to which objects are believed to be best associated. Through this they have demonstrated the different levels at which this type of social conditioning occurs, as well as the prejudices that result and that become evident at different stages of children’s development. Developmental psychologists have theorised that gender assumptions, beliefs, values and prejudices become embedded through the social representations that are available to them in their environment (Sanders, 2003). Ideas about the behaviours and expectations of males and females are learned in ways similar to those in which people learn colour and speech: through interaction with others in the social settings in which they find themselves. These ideas are learned socially and then internalised, and it is these ideas that compact together to form the gender prejudices that are displayed in children. After this period of internalisation, the attitudes and behaviours displayed by persons become unconsciously imbued with these beliefs and their expression of them causes their inculcation in future generations. The method of research by Lloyd and Duveen (1993) has demonstrated the high likelihood of identities to become formed through socialisation that occurs within a specific group. This has highlighted the diversity that exists among the identities that children have expressed, but in

Business Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Business Economics - Essay Example In fact the choice problem of the monopolist is to choose the per-unit price and quantity of output to maximise profits. This is achieved by producing that level of output (Qm) for which the MC = MR (with the MR being intersected by the MC from below as a second order condition). The price charged will be Pm as it can be seen from the demand curve that it is what the consumers shall be willing to pay for each unit if Qm is the available output in the market. Here the profit level shall be supernormal (represented as the shaded area in the diagram) i.e, over and above the normal profits. The absence of close substitutes allows the monopolist to charge a price high enough that ensures supernormal profits. However one should note that the monopolist can actually be bearing losses as well in the short run. This occurs simply if the AC corresponding to the profit maximising output lies above the corresponding price. In this case however the short run problem for the monopolist becomes one of minimising the loss. However, a firm will go on operating in a monopoly market through the long run if only he earns positive profits. Such profits can be sustained in the long run since in spite of the supernormal profits that may act as incentives to new firms, the barriers to entry are assumed to be strong enough to prevent new entry in a monopoly market structure. In the long run, the equilibrium condition is LMC = MR with the MR curve being intersected from below by the LMC curve. However the monopolist is limited in hiking the pricing over a certain extent as the negative income effect it generates may cause consumers to move on to substitute goods and thus causing a loss in revenue. However as long as the monopolist produces the profit maximising output and charges the corresponding optimal price, he/she shall be earning supernormal profits in the long run as well. Oligopoly is a type of

Define Culture Essay Example for Free

Define Culture Essay â€Å"A person without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.†- Marcus Garvey. This says that a person is defined by his or her culture by the way he/she acts, thinks, and speaks. A person is defined by his or her culture by the way he or she thinks. A person see’s the world differently so the way they think and act would be distinct. They would think differently because of the different backgrounds that they have. In the story â€Å"Imagine†, it says â€Å"you may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us and the world will live as one†. John Lennon explains how people think he’s different because of what he is. He also says how people aren’t all the same but he wishes that one day we were. He wishes that one day we will all see the world the same and we would be the same. A person is defined by his or her culture by the way he or she’s history, family tree, and he or she’s way of life. A person is defined by his or her culture because it effects the way they act or speak. In the story â€Å"Where I’m From,† George States â€Å"leaf fall from the family tree† This example from the text explains that every detail, moment, or where she is from in the poem is from her family tree. It’s saying the poem are moments or cultural things that effected her or shaped her as a person. The things she shares in the poem are all from her families history or culture (family tree). Although others may argue that culture doesn’t effect your education, other people don’t always agree,because their culture has taught them everything they know.An example on how culture defines your education is that people can attend any school , but when they are being taught, they realize that it is different from what they know. In the story, â€Å"An Indian Father’s Plea,† the protagonist argues, â€Å"My son is culturally â€Å"different.† If you ask him how many months are in a year he will probably tell you 13. He will respond this way not because he doesn’t know how to count but because he was taught by our people that there are 13 full moons in a year.† This quote demonstrates that even though he is Indian, he is culturally different because his culture has taught him what he knows. Your families history, education, and your view or the way you think all contribute on how your culture defines you. It’s obvious that any person would benefit from he or she’s culture.

Managing Change A Case Study of Corus Strip Products UK

Managing Change A Case Study of Corus Strip Products UK Using suitable and significant models, theories and concepts, this report examines how the company Corus implemented a current change initiative at its sub-division (Corus Strip Products UK) in a reaction to the obvious threat of increased competition from new entrants in the steel industry. By considering the case study, this assignment uses the Gradualist Paradigm of change to discuss how barriers to change at CSP UK were overcome and how the measurement of outcomes of change influenced organisational transformation. This will be employed to confirm and critique any suggestion made to its executive relating to the sustainability of the business. INTRODUCTION Corus Strip Products UK (CSP UK) is a leading producer of strip steel valuable in various manufacturing and construction sectors. It aims to be a leader in steel industry, by providing better products, higher quality services, and better value for money than its rivals. It needs constant development of entire working environment and culture in order to meet its ambition for growth. In 2010, it published a case study (The Times 100 Business Case Study: Corus) that explains how barriers to change were overcome in its sub-division. CSP UK initiated the Journey program in 2005. The company sought to tackle an extensive variety of issues but was specific in its tasks and framework which centred on the values and beliefs of its people. Fundamentally, this needed a combined effort from stakeholders (employees, contractors, suppliers and other associates) uniting on a set of guiding principles (8) that will define the core of the business namely honesty, professionalism, integrity, respect, improvement, excellence, fairness and transparency. The objective of this assignment is to form the concepts of the methods of change and learning of key stakeholders in the case study, using appropriate and relevant models. The results will be used to justify and critique recommendations to the management for future initiatives to sustain development at Corus. MAIN CONTENT Drivers (reasons) for change Due to the dynamic and disordered nature of steel markets, change was unavoidable at CSP UK in other to retain its competitive advantages. Inefficiencies within the business at CSP UK led to delays and wastage in production. Exports of products from the UK were more expensive compared to other countries, reducing its competitive advantage. CSP UK had dedicated workforce but there was a lack of motivation by work situations and signs of poor health and safety culture. External drivers for change centred upon increase competition from new entrants in the steel industry especially from Eastern Europe and Far East. This had a negative effect on demand leading to higher cost of its products, reducing its attractiveness to potential customers. Also advances in technology resulted in customers wanting better products, leading Corus to focus on innovation. CSP UK had a poor public opinion regarding environmental issues and this contributed to changes within the firm informing its business strategy, policies and procedures of the future. Types of change In order to understand change processes at CSP UK over time, it is vital to look at how the organisation understood the change cycle (Tushman, 1970) and how environmental factors affected its strategic vision. Since the 1970s, there has been a gradual decline of old products with the emergence of new products needed to increase future prospects. The Journey program showed both incremental and transformational changes over its period of implementation. It built on high skill set of its stakeholders and focused on how to improve work systems adaptable to the demands of new markets. Its framework for cultural transformation was at an organisational level, focusing on developing new and dynamic set of values that is different from earlier times (Burnes 2009, in Hayes). Previous drives for change from the Corus case report, showed signs of programmatic or planned change occurring. Looking at Total Quality Management (TQMs) initiative as well as prior programs, there was a focus on work reprogramming which included rationalizing of costs leading to a downsized labour force (~ 13% of total costs). However, CSP UK is an organisation of highly skilled and dedicated people and for future prosperity, there has to be a greater focus on how systemic (e.g. job enhancement, people empowerment and team building) and organisation development (including training, education and indoctrination of cultural values) can effect growth and improvement of business. Barriers to Change The 1970s were characterised by job reductions, redundancies, and a shortage of apprenticeships leading to doubt in workforce regarding new initiatives (refraining forces). Furthermore, certain members of staff at CSP UK gradually became unconcerned to business initiatives as they and the business had survived earlier testing times. The fear of the unfamiliar led to anxiety about existing teams and positions; hence the management at CSP UK sought to clarify the collective interest of all. Corus is a reputable firm in a conventional industry showing rigidity in certain aspects of its business. It had difficulty in modifying certain business practices to take advantage of advances in technology. This is damaging to its growth prospect and weakens its drive for innovation that adds value to its products and services. Additionally, the personnel at CSP UK showed signs of ageing, which demonstrated a slow pace to change. The pace of change has to be right, not too slow but not too fast as this can lead to a mis-alignment with the environment (Johnson Scholes 1991 in Hayes 2007). Transfer of skills amongst staff was limited and affected the ability of the firm to attract the brightest, youngest individuals available, important for future development. Company policy of rewarding long service rather than distinguished service reinforced the companys lack of dynamism, and its need to adapt business models to reward productivity and not longevity. CSP UK must focus on incentives that recognise suitable professional behaviours both natural and acquired. Methods of Overcoming Barriers CSP UK understood the importance of involving all stakeholders and effectively communicating the process of change. It defined its present performance standard (As Is) and future goals (To Be), stressing the importance of managing transitional periods and sustaining and revising its outlook. High impact techniques were used to demonstrate the state of the business highlighting where improvements could be made. In one instance, 150 senior managers were invited to Millennium Stadium Cardiff only to be met with shoddy service like servings of cold tea and the use of a broken slide projector. In addition, videos of poor standards were shown to managers, as well as the consultations with local school children which highlighted poor public opinion regarding the vision and practices of the business (e.g. environmental issues). Alarmingly, there was no dissent from the invitees, demonstrating a difference between industry standards and expectations of employees, representing a huge barrier t o reforming the firm. To tackle this, stakeholders at Corus had to be made aware of their right to challenge. Individual ownership of change was fit into the work setting and personal responsibility for change was encouraged. To this day, over 5000 employees have signed up to the beliefs and principles of the firm. Approaches to Managing and Leading the Change Process The Gradualist Paradigm The gradualist paradigm of change states that, basic change occurs through a process of continuous adjustment as change is emergent, i.e., there is no deliberate organisation for change (Weick Quinn, 1999). Therefore, for successful implementation of change, management and communication of change is vital. Leaders at CSP UK focused on its future prospects, its vision for change and how its culture identity can build emotional links within its workforce; while its management team focused on the present and set out a combined (economical organisational development) strategy for company transformation (Beer 2001 in Hayes 2009, chapter 14). Nahavandi, 2000 (in Burnes) Kotter, 1990 (in Hayes) stressed the importance of change managers developing suitable capacity and logistic to implement change. Managers at CSP UK set out clear targets (top-down directives), established steps to be taken and allocated resources as needed, with the aim of improving economic value of its products. Credit must be given to its managerial style which showed flexibility between transformational (innovative and adaptive culture) and transactional models recognising and rewarding success. A note must be made of the inter-changing roles of leaders and managers at CSP UK which were not mutually exclusive, but where sometimes combined in times of change for greater efficiency (Bolden, 2004 in Hayes). Organisational development strategies at CSP UK focused on enhancing the abilities of its stakeholders by involving and supporting individuals in their roles. It passed on its organisational vision clearly and focused on creating an enabling environment that increases productivity. It promoted a culture of involvement and shared purpose, focusing on the individual as champions of change. To achieve this, it used a range of communication channels including written and verbal interactions such as newsletters, workshops, intranet messages, heart-to-heart conversations, etc. The management team at CSP UK expected certain hindrances like the lack of trust in managers and resistance to change (restraining forces) and was well equipped to meet these challenges. Change in itself can be a violent process, especially in terms of restructuring, recruitment and redundancy, so mediating and actively listening to the fears and desires of its stakeholders is crucial. Beer (2001, in Hayes) stresses the importance of upward communication and underlines the need for information distribution and individuals buying-into the need for reform. At the moment, there is collective support from individuals, teams and departments to improve its culture. In effect, the Journey sought out to manage a psychological contract based on core values that shape outcomes relating to job output. Measuring the Outcomes of Change The Journey program contributed hugely to the viability of business at Corus Strip Product, UK. Its production volume has increased by 4.5% to a run-rate of 5 million tonnes. Absenteeism is at an all time low and there has also been an improvement of goods and service to its customers. There are stricter targets for Health and Safety; with safety teams tasked with maintaining an accident-free environment. These have all contributed to the establishment of a robust business especially in the backdrop of harsh economic realities in 2008 and 2009. Crucial business forecast for 2009/2010 predicts cost reduction of approximately  £250 million. In order for an effective transitional period at CSP UK, it developed integrated feedback mechanisms that made the review process easy, and its adaptability to meet new deadlines. Midway indicators were set to integrate the workforce into achieving stated objectives. There has also been a massive number of quick wins, which has contributed to a greater yield and continues to improve the cost-effectiveness of the business. RECOMMENDATIONS This report has raised the issue of an organisational-wide business process re-engineering (BPR) at Corus as reinforced by gains showed at its sub-division (CSP UK) from implemented reforms. The plant is on target to attain a 20% reduction in cost of production of steel. Using CSP UK as a model, organisational structures can be redesigned world-wide that are more flexible and less hierarchical to accomplish faster and more adaptable responses to changing markets. For sustainable growth, Antonacopoulou Gabriel (2001); Argyris (1991) argued for the need for new learning to occur during the change process to allow for a gradual transformation of Corus from an organisation learning (OL) to being a learning organisation (LO). To be ahead of rivals in the sector, Corus has to continually invest in new systems especially apprenticeships to renew its workforce and to create a forward-thinking environment. Strebels cycle of competitive behaviour (in Hayes 2007) illustrates the importance of Corus having the adequate structures that it uses to predict technological, political (e.g. new laws) and economic changes in the steel industry. In the 1970s competition was fierce with rivals reacting to add value to their products to maintain market relevance. This led to an oversupply of products (breaking point) with insufficient demand and a consequent downturn leading to job losses. CSP UK acted rightly to formulate efficiency strategies resulting in Total Quantity Management initiative (TQMs) to improve competitiveness and productivity. Total labour cost is low (~13% of total cost) in contrast to energy and raw materials, e.g. assembly line cost at 40-50% of total cost, indicating excesses to expenditure here. Therefore, there is an opportunity to thoroughly review work efficiency (especially energy and raw materials) and reassign sufficient resources to improve innovation, staff management training, development, shared values and time and apprenticeship (transfer of learning). This comprehensive approach to organisational development is reflected in the thinking of the management. we cannot solve our problems by spending; we cannot solve our problems by cutting back. The only way to meet our challenges is to change how we go about things. (quote from Managing Director of CSP UK). The poor perception amongst the public on how CSP UK handles environmental issues has to be addressed without delay. Records show that carbon dioxide emissions have fallen by 10% and its standards now exceeds government criteria for carbon emissions. A public relations initiative using a variety of channels (including internet, bill boards, television and radio, telephone messaging, etc) is needed to show the significant improvement in the companys impact on the community. There is some evidence of failure in previous programs even though the firm supported the concept of modernization. Due to the punctuated nature of change, measures have to both be incremental and transformational in nature to be effective. The Journey program gave a clear picture of the need for coordinated organisational changes within its structure, learning and culture (Burnes, B. 2009). Evidence of this is found in the way it worked in partnership to re-define its eight (8) core value that now steers everything CSP UK does and what its culture stands for. Corus Strip Products UK achieved this by winning the support of all employees as champions of change and supported a culture of frank engagement, avoiding the us and them mentality. This in turn challenged barriers of change and delivered a workable strategy that built a sustainable business for future generations. This culture must constantly be revived, reviewed and guarded carefully for future growth and development at Corus. CONCLUSIONS Due to the case-based evaluation of this report, there are limitations to the assumptions that can be made. However, it was evident that there was the need for organisational change to retain sustainability at Corus Strip Products UK. The Journey helped CSP UK weather the storm despite the economic downturn, with the company now benefiting from the gains of the program. This has enabled the business to construct a feasible business model that focuses on organisational transformation and establishes its growth and profitability margins; to maintain its ability to attract investment and capital from governments, big businesses, and individuals.

What Is Postmodern Culture Religion Essay

What Is Postmodern Culture Religion Essay Some people see postmodern culture as liberating because it has broken away from the limitations of modern culture. Others see postmodern culture as superficial and pastiche of the worst aspects of modernism. Before we can explore these cultural themes and what they stand for, we must first define them. For the purpose of this essay I will not be going into much detail about the origins, features and differences when considering the concept of culture. But I will be focusing on the differences of modern-and post modern culture. To start with a simple definition according to Kidd (2003), culture means the way of life of a group of people. The patterns of social organisation and the normal ways in which we are supposed to behave in society touch all aspects of our daily lives. For obvious reasons not all cultures are similar, for example, just because social life, for us, happens to be structured in a certain way, does not mean that it has to be like this, nor that it was like this in the past or even like this in other societies around the world (Kidd, 2003:5-6). The sociologist Raymond Williams (1983), in his book Key Words: a vocabulary of culture and society, says: Culture is one of the two or three most complicated words in the English language. This is partly so because of its intricate historical development, in several European languages, but mainly because it now come to be used for important concepts in several distinct and incompatible systems of thought(Kidd, 2003:9). Two of these incompatible systems of thought can be considered to be modern- and postmodern culture. Modernity According to Kidd (2003), what we call modernity is usually associated with the era of industrialisation and the time when sociology was developed by its founders. Modernity-the period of the modern-comes from the Latin word modo, which means just now, and this key feature in the modernist spirit is: the founders idea that life and society had changed. Their times their just now were totally different from those of the traditional preindustrial societies of the past (Kidd, 2003:85). Modernity can be characterised by the following elements: industrialisation; urbanisation; a rise in the importance of science; the growth of the manufacturing industry, secularisation (the decline of religion); the invention of more advanced technology; rationalisation (Kidd, 2003:85). Modernity was the age of science, sociologists and discovery, based on the belief that humans could understand and control everything. The world of nature (uncertainty) was the slave and humans were now in charge. The mission statements of these scientists and sociologists were to find absolute truth, develop universal and general laws, to control the present, to predict the future and to control the shape and direction of the future (Kidd, 2003:85-86). Modernity was based on what is called the spirit of the Enlightenment- the eighteenth-century philosophical movement that addressed the importance of reason and the replacement of religion and superstition with science and rationality. According to Kidd (2003), Max Weber provided an excellent illustration of the modernists preoccupation with rationalisation in his sociology of music (1968, originally written in 1910-110). Weber saw the historical development of society as the development of rationality in all spheres of social life and social organisation. In this context rationalisation means the breaking down of an object of study into constituent parts in order better to understand the whole. Rationality is thus seen as a fundamental part of the rise of both science and technology in the industrial era, and as providing the momentum for industrialisation itself a highly modernist image of social change. Weber illustrated the historical development of rationality with reference to musical notation. For example in preindustrial traditional society, music was passed down the generations as part of folk culture. Songs were passed down by word of mouth and instrument making was the task of skilled people. With the onset of rationalisation there developed a concern to analyse what music actually was to break it down in order better to control it. Hence the creation of a universal system of notation, scales, tabs and so on. Just like the documentation and notation of music, the making of music instruments became a matter of mass production. The rationalisation process was seen as helping people to control the world around them: to seek out absolute truth and to make order out of the chaos of nature (Kidd, 2003: 86-87). Postmodernism It is very difficult to define the term postmodernism in one short definition because it covers such a large academic field and so much has been written on the subject. Let`s begin with a few short definitions and take it from there. Postmodernism refers to the intellectual mood and cultural expressions that are becoming increasingly dominant in contemporary society. These expressions questions the ideals, principles and values that lay at the heart of the modern mind-set. Post modernity, in turn, refers to the era in which we are living, the time when the postmodern outlook increasingly shapes our society. The adjective postmodern, then, refers to the mind-set and its products. Post modernity is the era in which postmodern ideas, attitudes, and values reign-when the mood of postmodernism is moulding culture. This is the era of the postmodern society. (Grenz, 1996: 12-13) According to Klages (2003) Postmodernism, which became an area of academic study in the mid eighties, is a term used to define the era after modernity. The Premodern (medieval) age was labelled the age of faith and superstition, followed by the modern age, the age of reason, empiricism and science. The postmodern age of relativity and, recently, the newest form of postmodernism, the age of holism and interdependence, followed. Respectively, the guiding metaphors are the created organism, the machine, the text, and the self-organizing system (de Quincy, 2002). Modernism has been introduced as a benchmark for the discussion of postmodernism, and two related terms, postmodern and postmodernist. One of the first writers to use the term postmodern was the American literary critic Ihab Hassan. In the second edition of his groundbreaking book from 1971, The Dismemberment of Orpheus: Toward a Postmodern Literature (1982), he draws up a list of differences between modernism and postmodernism. This list tries to present the focus between modernism and postmodernism and the terms used. Although many of the categories have remained highly controversial, it still is worth reproducing here as a guideline between the difference in mindsets between the two eras: Postmodernism Pataphysics/Dadaism Antiform (disjuctive, open) Play Chance Anarchy Exhaustion/Silence Process/Performance/Happening Participation Decreation/Deconstruction Antithesis Absence Dispersal Text/Intertext Rhetoric Syntagm Parataxis Metonymy Combination Rhizome/Surface Against Interpretation/Misreading Signifier Scriptible (writerly) Antinarrative/Petite histoire Idiolect Desire Modernism Romanticism/Symbolism Form (conjunctive, closed) Purpose Design Hierarchy Mastery/Logos Art object/Finished work Distance Creation/Totalization Synthesis Presence Centring Genre/Boundary Semantics Paradigm Hypotaxis Metaphor Selection Root/Depth Interpretation/Reading Signified Lisible (readerly) Narrative/Grande histoire Master code Symptom Mutant Polymorphous/Androgynous Schizophrenia Difference-differance/trace The Holy Ghost Irony Indeterminacy Immanence Type Genital/Phallic Paranoia Origin/Cause God the Father Metaphysics Determinacy Transcendence (Hassan, 1982: 267-8; Malpas, 2005: 7-8) According to Anderson (1996) we are living in a new world, a world that does not know how to define itself by what it is, but only by what it has just-now ceased to be. This view takes the position that the world has changed so drastically that confusion has taken over from certainty. The modernist world was fixed and it had a definite character. The post modern perspective explains that the absolute truth and definite standards, that modernity held, has collapsed. In post modernity truth, certainty and reality are provisional and relativistic. This is the case according to Kidd (2003), not just for morality, but also for the knowledge we have about the world around us. There are too many choices out there, all claiming to be the real version of the truth. Religion, politics, the sciences and so on all claim special access to the truth, but how can we tell which is correct? Knowledge has become a commodity and a form of power, rather than an absolute, a truth. Just as truth fragments into a plurality of truths, so the traditional means of identity formation based on class, gender, ethnicity and so on has been replaced by an individual search for meaning, and life-style has become a matter of choice. Ultimately, uncertainty, confusion, ambiguity and plurality will be all that is left. The French thinker Jean-Francois Lyotard, in his book The Post modern Condition (1984: xxiv), defines postmodern as incredulity toward metanarratives. What he means by this that in the postmodern age knowledge has become provisional and as humans we see the old claims to truth for they really are fictions, stories or narratives. Leyotard suggested that science and scientific knowledge have been exposed for what they are once powerful illusions that are powerful no longer. Hope can no longer be placed on the highly modernist notions of progress or reason since what claims to be knowledge depends on where one is, and how one chooses to see what is around one. There is no such thing as a single truth nothing more than a commodity. Knowledge can be bought and sold, and in the age of computer technology those who have the most knowledge have the most power (Kidd, 2003:90-91). According to Kidd (2003) a great deal of postmodern thinking is characterised by a belief called relativism. Relativism in postmodernism suggests that there are no absolute standards of truth, reality, morality and correctness, instead everything comes down to a matter of choice. This concept of relativism is in direct opposition to the modernist thinking discussed in the Modernity section of this paper. The founders believed in progress, development and objectivity but these are seen by postmodernists as nothing but stories, which in their time were powerful and shaped our thinking, but no longer. Critique of postmodernism While post modernism in itself serves as a critique on the principals of modernism, we havent explored any critique on post modernism yet. While many have embraced postmodern ideas, some have rejected them. According to Kidd (2003) the critics of postmodernism are concerned about the implications of these ideas for the future of sociology itself. If there is no such thing as truth, then what is the point of sociology trying to determine what the world is like? There are five main criticisms of postmodernism. First, according to Kidd (2003) is Norris (1992,1993), he considers that postmodernism is far too sceptical and relativistic to be of any use. Norris (1992) quotes an observation made by Tony Bennett: If narratives are all that we can have and if all narratives are, in principle, of equal value as it seems they must be if there is no touchstone of reality to which they can be referred for the adjudication of their truth-claims then rational debate would seem to be pointless. Secondly, according to Kidd (2003), Giddens (1990, 1991) notes with some concern that postmodernism does not give sociology a future. It denies the very Enlightenment spirit that led to the creation of sociology. For Giddens the postmodern denial of truth and reason leaves us with nothing upon which to gain knowledge and truth about the world. Third, according to Kidd (2003), many Marxists have showed that postmodernism may preach about the individual freedom and liberation from the modernists` past, but this freedom is an illusion since it is based on consumption. Given that consumption cost money, then surely some people are going to be more free than others? Postmodernism is said to provide a thinly veiled justification for the false needs created by the capitalist economy these simply ensures more profits for the capitalists themselves and thus ensures the perpetuation of an exploitative society. Fourth, according to Kidd (2003), if morality is indeed relative then this leaves us with no means of challenging, discrimination and prejudice in society. Finally According to Aylesworth (2005) the most prominent critic of postmodernism is Jà ¼rgen Habermas. In  The Philosophical Discourse of Modernity  (Habermas:1987), he criticises postmodernism at the level of society and communicative action. He defends modernists` argumentative reason in inter-subjective communication against postmodernism`s experimental, avant-garde strategies. For example, Habermans claims postmodernists commit a performative contradiction in their critiques of modernism by employing concepts and methods that only modern reason can provide. Which positions do I agree with? To conceptualize these two culture phenomenas in simple terms it would seem that modernism tends to be much more conservative than the liberal postmodernism. I will explain my position using the controversial animated TV show, South Park as example, from the view point of the episode I`m little bit country(Parker:2003). This episode originally aired during the build-up to the  2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq. The people of the town South Park are divided about the war. After splitting in two groups, both groups plan rallies: one pro-war (conservative: modernist), one anti-war (liberal: postmodernist), both on the same day in the same street. They end up having a great argument during both rallies, and in the end they get into a huge fight where they begin to kill each other. Benjamin Franklin (one of the founding fathers)  appears in the charracter, Eric Cartmans coma-dream and explains to him that the new country must not seem to be a war-monger to the rest of the world; at the same time it cannot seem to be weak either. Therefore it must go to war, but allow protests. The United States will go to war on one hand, and use protest to oppose the war on the other. He refers to the this as saying one thing and doing another. He refers to this as having our cake and eating it too. Cartman wakes up from his coma and delivers this message to the two fighting groups in the town, who see`s the truth of that statement and then break out into song (South Park Studios:2003). Thus my point is that we should apply both cultural phenomenas when living our lives but when doing so we should consider a healthy balance between the two. It would seem unreasonable to consider that everything has an absolute truth about it, because people and things change all the time and not everything is constant and controllable as the modernists would like to believe. On the other hand everything can`t be relative because there has to be absolute truth in world otherwise our lives would be uncertain in so many ways. For example all metals expand when heated is an absolute truth, when you jump of a 50 ft bridge, you are probably going to die. We need truth and freedom to coexist with one another, so if I have to label myself as a modernist or a postmodernist, then I am neither, I will take what I need when I need it . 2501 words

Scientist :: essays research papers

Scientists and the products of their work are far from ‘neutral.’ Rather than embodying neutrality, scientists are inextricably connected to the existing distribution of interests and power. White, male scientists over the centuries have attempted to use science as a medium for all their findings, which inevitably support their personal beliefs. In my experience, scientists are extremely intelligent, but particularly one-sided. Hearing the words ‘scientist’ and ‘neutral’ in the same sentence disturbs me--after all, scientists have tried to ‘prove’ an unlimited amount of times that blacks are innately less intelligent then whites, and that women are innately weaker and possess less natural ability in math and science than men do . Ruth Hubbard, in her essay â€Å"Science, Facts and Feminism,† explains that, â€Å"as scientists, our job is to generate facts that help people understand nature. † Webster’s dictionary defines the word scientist as one who studies natural science. Scientists seek knowledge from Mother Nature, which David Barash views as sexist, to understand many things including the certain roles genders play in society. Similar to these science critics, I believe trying to figure out and define roles based on our biological make-up is immoral. It causes conflicts and biases that account for the separation between genders.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Hubbard argues that the ideology of woman’s nature that is invoked at these times would have us believe that a woman’s capacity to become pregnant leaves her always physically disabled in comparison with men. This ideology, supported by male scientists, has affected the roles of women in society and the workplace. It hinders women’s access to employment and influences some to believe that their place in society is at home (based on nature). Other scientists have also tried to prove that women’s disproportionate contributions to childcare and homecare are biologically programmed because women have a greater biological ‘investment’ in children then men do. My view on this assumption is that the cause of the disproportionate contributions is psychologically, rather than biologically, determined. Fathers might be more sensitive to their children than mothers, and vice versa, proving that scientists’ point about biological ‘investmentà ¢â‚¬â„¢ is not only obscure, but also invalid. I find no neutrality in that argument, nor in most of their cases. Scientists could be more neutral if they actually tried to provide conclusive evidence for some of their findings. Keller stated, â€Å"The net result is that scientists are probably less reflective of the ‘tacit assumption’ that guide their reasoning than any other intellectuals of the modern age.

Humorous Wedding Speech by a Friend of the Groom -- Wedding Toasts Roa

Humorous Wedding Speech by a Friend of the Groom Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen. My name is Robert. As they were speaking just now, it struck me how much David and his new father-in-law now have in common. After all, it's the first time in 25 years that Arthur has been able to speak for 10 minutes without interruption from the women in his family. And it'll be the last time in 25 years that David gets to do the same. So I sincerely hope he treasures this moment. But it is great to finally see David with a ring on his finger as he learned a long time ago that you cannot make someone love you. All you can do is stalk them and hope they panic and give in. So Pamela, was it the 101 red roses he sent to your office that made you give in? However, before Pamela accepted David's proposal of marriage, she wanted to clarify a few things. In particular, she wanted to limit the amount of football he was watching on TV. Well, thank goodness they managed to sort it out. In the end, David agreed that he would stop watching any game as soon as the last goal was scored. So there can be no argument about who’ll be wearing the trousers in David and Pamela’s house. David will be wearing them - right under his apron. You see, Pamela has already started to train David well - and it may surprise some of you to hear that she didn't have to start by showing him where the kitchen was. She actually had to explain to h... ... approaches marriage with the same team spirit he’s demonstrated in all the things we’ve done together, he is sure to make a success of it. Ever since I’ve know him he’s been an unselfish team player, whether it was cub scouts, football or on adventure holidays. His commitment and determination are probably what Pamela saw first in him†¦ that and his money. Ladies and gentlemen, it's an honour to be standing here as David’s best man. I suppose I should actually say it's an honour and a pleasure, but I know the pleasure won’t kick in until this speech part is over. So let’s hurry up and toast the bride and groom. To David and Pamela - may the roof above you never fall in and may you both never fall out.

Essay --

If there were a way to make a better race, a better society, or economy wouldn't you take the chance? A new turn in science has occurred that could lead to the change of the people of the world. Genetic Engineering is the process of using technology to change the genetic makeup of cells. Parents now have the power of modifying the unborn children to select traits they think is appropriate for their child. If you could change your child in hope to stop the stroll of disease going into its genes wouldn't you? The rapid advancement in technology makes designer babies a real possibility to society. By being able to rearrange traits in your unborn children could lead to endless useful opportunities. By selecting and taking out genes for your child it can cease the chances of your child having genetic diseases such as down syndrome.This both saves children from suffering and reduces the cost and emotional strain of looking after a sick child. In the article â€Å"Are Designer Babies Ethical?† by CBS News it stated that a survey suggested most people support building a better baby when it comes ...

Relations Between the Soviet Union and China Hostile Essay

What were the turning-point events that kept relations between the Soviet Union and China hostile for over 20 years? There were many disputes between China and Russia between the 1950s and 1960s. The disputes may be caused by ideological differences, self-interest, personalities of the leaders, or domestic problems. Mao and Stalin had ideological differences. Although Mao and Stalin’s ideologies are based on Marxism, Stalin believed Mao using the peasants as the basis for revolution is not the right interpretation of Marxism. Stalin thought workers in cities should be the basis to lead the revolution. Also, Stalin feared Mao compete against him in the Communist world, so Stalin wanted a weak China and the USSR will then dominate Asia. He made his policies through self-interests. Thus, Stalin wanted Mao to cooperate with Chiang Kai-shek instead of carrying out a revolution. Therefore Mao believed Stalin was not a true revolutionary. The Sino-Soviet Treaty Alliance is another example, which the Soviets acted through self-interest. The treaty, which was the first treaty between China and Russia, offered the Chinese Soviet expertise and low interest aid. However, it was signed after two months of negotiation and the Chinese was received poor treatment. Plus, the Chinese would have to repay Soviets’ aid with interests. Moreover, the Chinese traditional buildings were replaced with Soviet style buildings and Socialist sciences were prioritized over the western, which was far more effective than the Socialist sciences. Mao was not happy about Stalin’s actions in the Korean War. Stalin encouraged China to send troops into Korea. China sent one million soldiers to Korea and Russia gave China material assistance but China paid $1.35 billion for the Soviet equipment. Between 1953 and 1956, there were tensions and suspicions in Mao and Stalin’s relationship. Stalin might have purposely delay the end of the Korean War in order to weaken China. After Stalin’s death, tension between Russia and China has relaxed. Soviet leaders tried to make the treaties fairer for China. During the leadership years of Khrushchev, tension has eased between China and the USSR. However, tension rose again at the conference of Communist Parties. Mao called Russia to abandon revisionism, which supports Western Capitalists. Mao also believed the USSR is trying to isolate China. Deng believed capitalism had to be crushed in violent revolution. Khrushchev’s visit to Beijing in order to ease the tension caused by the conference was unsuccessful. Khrushchev’s hotel, which was infested by mosquitos, had no A/C in the summer. Also, Khrushchev who was bad at swimming was invited to swim with Mao. It was humiliating for Khrushchev because he had to wear tight swimming shorts and a swim ring. Meanwhile, Deng used this opportunity to criticize the Sovi ets. He said the Soviets had betrayed the Communist movement and had sent spies disguised as technical advisers to China. Next, a series of events caused China and Russia’s relation to deteriorate. The Taiwan crisis resulted the Soviets withdrawing their economic advisers and cancelled commercial contracts with China. Then the Soviets denounced the faulty design of The Great Leap Forward, which made Mao infuriated. Therefore, Mao would now aid any communist countries that do not agree with the USSR. An example of this would be China aiding Albania. In 1961, the USSR withdrew aid from Albania. Then China replaced the Soviet aid to Albania. This led to more hostilities between the two communist countries. Khrushchev and Mao also had different views on nuclear weapons. Mao did not fear nuclear war because he believed war is unavoidable in the revolutionary struggle. On the other hand, Khrushchev want wanted to co-exist with the US. The Test-ban Treaty was signed in 1963, in which the USSR and US agreed to stop nuclear tests. Mao saw this as the USSR siding with the imperialist powers. Also, China called the USSR for help on the development of nuclear weapons, but the Soviets rejected. After Khrushchev left office in 1964, the Soviets continued isolating China. The Soviets criticized the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution. Also the Soviets used this opportunity to criticize China on its development of worldwide opium trade, receiving assistance from West Germany on nuclear research, and so on. China and Russia also had disputes on border. In 1969, they started fighting because of border disputes and Mao was prepared for nuclear war. In the end nuclear weapons was not used, but the dispute had threatened to turn into a full-scale war. The Vietnam War had also caused the disputes between China and Russia because they all wanted Vietnam to be influenced by their ideologies. In the end, USSR won and the Soviet-Vietnamese Treaty of Peace and Friendship was formed. In conclusion, mainly because of self-interest and different ideological views, Russia and China had conflicts on the Conference of Communist Parties in 1957, Taiwan, the Great Leap Forward, the Cultural Revolution, the Vietnam War, and border issues. Because of these serious of events, China and Russia relations were hostile over 20 years.

Haemon’s Speech Analysis

Haemon’s Speech Analysis Pride and stubbornness can be harmful things, and Haemon touches upon this within his speech to Creon as he attempts to dissuade his father from taking Antigone’s life. Using rhetorical devices such as tone, ethical, emotional, logical appeal, and metaphor, Haemon manages to make an impact on Creon’s eventual decision as he speaks in Antigone’s defense.Starting at the beginning of his speech, Haemon ventures to convince Creon to change his mind about his harsh ruling against Antigone, not by raising his voice or attempting to beat his â€Å"earnest† views into his father, but by using great tact and endeavoring to find a common ground with Creon, possibly trying to understanding his father’s position on the matter at hand. First, Haemon alleges that reason is â€Å"God’s crowning gift to man†, and that his father is â€Å"right† to â€Å"warn [him]† against losing that reason.He even keenly asserts that he never wants to say that â€Å"[Creon] has reasoned badly†, continuing on to make other mindful concessions. However, when this thoughtful mode of speaking doesn’t take any immediate effect, Haemon starts to become more candid with his words, implying (although not directly) that Creon’s actions are unjust and stubborn, taking care to adopt a point of view that is constructively criticizing as opposed to being completely insulting. He rationally cautions his father against the mindset of him having all of â€Å"the power†, noting that if Creon continues upon that path he will eventually â€Å"turn out† an â€Å"empty† man.He states that even people like his father must be able to stop, listen, and learn from others—not be completely fixed and â€Å"unchangeable†, because no man in the world is completely infallible. A few lines later in the speech, in addition to his amiable tone, Haemon also begins to use some emotional appeal, acknowledging his love and respect for his father, affirming that â€Å"nothing [is] closer to [him] than [his father’s] happiness†, and that he â€Å"values his father’s fortune† as much as his own.Haemon also logically recognizes his youthfulness and lack of wisdom as well, although he astutely uses what the people of Thebes have been â€Å"muttering and whispering† to support his argument, using aspects of ethical appeal to attest that Antigone’s innocence is what the people of his father’s city would want, realizing that while Creon would like first and foremost to be a good ruler, e also wishes to be well-liked by his people. Then coming to closing lines of his speech, Haemon begins to weave in clever metaphors here and there, first comparing a â€Å"stubborn tree† being â€Å"torn up† and then a â€Å"fast† and â€Å"never-slackened sail† going â€Å"head over heels and under† the water to his father, indicating that this is the type of thing what will happen if Creon thinks that he alone â€Å"can be right†.And in the very end, Haemon leaves his father with some loaded words, advising that Creon listen to him, because while â€Å"men should be right by instinct†, â€Å"[they] are all too likely to† be led astray, and that the smartest thing would be to learn from those who can are willing to teach them how to stay, or even make their own paths, in life.

Dr. Seuss’s the Sneetches

The Sneetches Book Analysis By: Matthew Strong The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss is the title story in a playfully written series of short stories that subtly illustrate very crucial moral and social issues that are still very relevant in today’s society, despite the book being published in 1961. Now, obviously this story can be read for sheer pleasure, however upon rereading it as an adult I, walked away with a much more profound enlightenment at the overall message conveyed by The Sneetches. There are multiple dilemmas/ social issues that significantly stand out, and these will be the ones addressed and analyzed in more depth.Issues such as racism and the keeping up with the Joneses mentality that is so prevalent in today’s consumerist society. Of course these are not the only issues brought up within The Sneetches, but simply the ones that I feel are conveyed the strongest by Dr. Seuss through his illustrations and his obscure, yet delightful use of literature that has made him such a world renowned author of children’s books. Keeping up with the Joneses is a popular term that summarizes the widespread and cyclical effect of defining oneself by what they possess, in an effort to reach a higher social status.Dr. Seuss precipitates this effect by introducing the very clearly spoken and keen character of Sylvester McMonkey McBean (Giesel, 9). After effectively raising the social status of the Plain-Bellied Sneetches by adding a star to their bellies he immediately initiate’s the consumerist cycle by stating, â€Å"belly stars are no longer in style† (Giesel, 17). Dr. Seuss illustrates the ensuing dilemma that perfectly depicts the desire to achieve social and cultural superiority by the Sneetches, while also detailing Sylvester McMonkey McBean amassing a large fortune in the background (Giesel, 20).The character of Sylvester McMonkey McBean represents an uncanny similarity to that of the big business industries that use consumerism a s a means to control the buying public. He continually raises his prices and dictates the newest trends so that the Sneetches raced through the machines constantly changing their stars every minute or two (Giesel, 22). Dr. Seuss is discreetly pointing out that by constantly defining our social status by what we possess, we will inherently ause conflict and unfortunately in today’s consumerist society, there will always be people who take advantage of humanities desire to define ourselves for a profit. Racism is arguably the most prominent moral issue portrayed within The Sneetches. Dr. Seuss almost immediately starts off the story with a seemingly irrelevant difference between two otherwise indistinguishable Sneetches. The line â€Å"Those stars weren’t so big. They were really so small, you might think such a thing didn’t matter at all† (Giesel, 3) is used to foreshadow how such a small star will have such a vast impact throughout the story.Racism can be defined in many ways, however in this context it can be put simply as a belief that members of a certain race possess characteristics that they use to distinguish themselves from another race, in an effort to be perceived as superior. I see the theme of racism throughout the entire story but it is most evident in the first few pages, where as a reader you become acclimated to the fact that the Star-Bellied Sneetches truly do believe they are more privileged by the way that they carry themselves with their snoots in the air and such a pretentious demeanour (Giesel, 4).Dr. Seuss further emphasizes this belief of superiority during the following paragraphs when he describes how the Plain-Belly Sneetches were not allowed to join in games of ball or attend parties and picnics hosted by the Star-Belly Sneetches. The Plain-Belly Sneetches remain depressed and oppressed, clear indicators that the factors of racism have been evidently established between the two types of Sneetches for a lon g period of time. Dr.Seuss uses very thin horizontal and diagonal lines to really capture the energy and excitement of the Star-Bellied Sneetches, while also using the same technique to convey the depressed and divided mood of the Plain-Bellied Sneetches (Giesel, 6). Furthermore, Dr. Seuss practically reverses the colour palate from the previous pages to strengthen the emotion displayed by the two types of Sneetches (Giesel, 7). The illustrations on pages six and seven compliment the text perfectly as Dr. Seuss describes how deep rooted and developed the segregation between the Sneetches truly is when he says â€Å"They left them out cold, in the dark of the beaches.They kept them away. Never let them come near. And that’s how they treated them year after year† (Giesel, 7). It is with that paragraph that Dr. Seuss used seemingly primitive imaginary creatures to emphasize a very realistic and relevant human rights issue. Racism and all of its awful subcategories such as prejudice, discrimination and segregation don’t emerge overnight; they are the result of a small-minded belief that has cultivated and grown over time like an untreated disease. Although The Sneetches is a beloved children’s book, Dr. Seuss is conveying a valuable message for all ages.With his iconic use of subtle metaphors, he is saying to not allow our trivial differences act as dividing lines in society, and that the human race can exist peacefully despite our exterior differences. Through playful commentary and relatively simplistic illustrations Dr. Seuss is able to send a very subtle, yet powerful message to the readers of The Sneetches. It becomes vividly apparent and shockingly unfortunate that a story published in 1961 can still address so many moral and social issues that are still very relevant in today’s society. Disguised as a children’s story, Dr.Seuss has conveyed very valuable lessons in racism and the desire to define ourselves by what w e possess. We are all born with innocence to the world, and therefore, how we identify ourselves, and tolerance towards others are all qualities that are taught. The overall message of this story is aimed at the adults who will be reading The Sneetches to the children of today/ tomorrow. To teach them to accept others for who they are because we are all but one component of the greater human race. Works Cited Giesel, Theodor Seuss. The Sneetches And Other Stories. New York: Random House Children’s Books, 1961. Print.