The History of Healthcare Informatics

The History Behind Nursing Informatics Jackie Bailey Colorado Christian University Prof. L. Rieg CIS312A: Final Paper September 26, 2012 The History Behind Nursing Informatics Nursing informatics (NI) has become a vital part of healthcare delivery and has become a defining factor in the selection, execution, and assessment of technology that supports safe, exceptional quality and patient-centered care. Nursing has become so uniform. The data in patient records has become a valuable resource and has improved assessments and overall patient care.Before the launch of nursing informatics throughout the second half of the 20th century there were not any real standards for language. The use of data restricted the function and effectiveness of any early informatics applications. Nurses began developing standardized language systems during the turn of the century. International collaborations involving different medical disciplines have led to the improvement of standards and have opened the door for strong and reliable information tools. Nurses have the ability to change and improve healthcare.They have the potential to change outcomes with the use of informatics. The use of this technology does require change; a change in the person, the institute, and the systems. Nurses are developing and applying informatics to find new knowledge and are improving the quality of care given on a global level (Edwards, H. 2011). Nurses have identified three important factors in nursing informatics: basic computer skills, informatics knowledge and information literacy (Thede, L. 2012). In the beginning there was Florence Nightingale.Not only did Nurse Nightingale pioneer the nursing profession she also started the first informatics in nursing. She stated ‘In an attempt to arrive at the truth, I have applied everywhere for information, but scarcely an instance have I been able to find hospital records fit for any purpose of comparison. If they could be obtained, they would enabl e us to decide many other questions besides the one alluded to? †¦if wisely used, these improved statistics would tell us more of the relative value of particular operations and modes of treatment than we have any means of obtaining at present.They would enable us, besides, to ascertain the influence of the hospital †¦ upon the general course of operations and diseases passing through its wards; and the truth thus ascertained would enable us to save life and suffering, and to improve the treatment and management of the sick †¦ . † (Florence Nightingale. Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). Nurse Nightingale began nursing informatics by introducing three health sciences into nursing: health services research, evidenced-based practice and informatics (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. (2008).She requested that clinical records be analyzed to assess and improve care and outcomes (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. (2008). She noticed the need for change before there really was a need for change. Her efforts brought about nursing informatics and the nursing profession became more modernized. Nearly 100 years later a woman by the name of Harriet Werley started to encourage the use and growth of informatics in the nursing profession (Murphy, J. 2010). In the late 1950’s she was the first nurse to participate in research in a hospital (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). She was asked to provide consultation for IBM on the possible use of computers in healthcare (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). Nurse Werley saw the benefits of computers used to store patient information and to improve patient care (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). She devised a minimum data set to be collected from every patient Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). In the 1970’s nursing informatics really began to bloom. The first records of the use of computers in the nursing field started to appear in professional and scholarly literature (Murphy, J. 2010).Nursing care plans b egan to focus on reducing the amount of documentation and keeping it as accurate and as detailed as possible (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). Another system focused on patient scheduling in a rehabilitation setting (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). Nurses at a California hosptial assisted in developing the first comprehensive hospital information system and helped integrat the system for nursing care planning, documentation, and feedback (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). They developed the standard care plans that are used throughout the world today (Ozbolt, J. G. Saba, V. K. 2008). Another big achievement of this decade was the introduction of the first commercial electronic medical record (Thede, L. 2012). This new system was patient-oriented and was implemented throughout the hospital (Thede, L. 2012). Nursing informatics really gained momentum in the 1980’s. The first national conference on computer technology and nursing was held (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008) . Scholarships and the first educational courses on Nursing Informatics were introduced into the nursing programs at Boston College, University of New York and University of Utah (Ozbolt, J.G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). The growing record of accomplishment allowed nurses to move into managerial roles (Edwards, H. 2011). By the mid ‘80’s, nearly three decades after Nurse Werley pushed for minimum data sets, was the idea finally embraced by nurse professionals (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). Four specific elements of the minimum data set became a standard for nursing care: nursing diagnosis, nursing intervention, nursing outcome and the intensity of the care provided (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). Beginning in the 1990’s a real change was noticed.The technological advances that had been made were astonishing (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). A new technology called the internet had been introduced allowing for worldwide communication of healthcare information (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). In 1994 the American Nurses Association published the first versions of the â€Å"Scope of Nursing Informatics Practice† and the â€Å"Standards of Nursing Informatics Practice†. In 1995, the American Nurses Credentialing Center started the basic certification in nursing informatics as an area of specialty practice (Ozbolt, J. G. Saba, V. K. 2008). Also in 1994, the American Nurses Association (ANA) published the first definition of nursing informatics: â€Å"Nursing Informatics is the specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science, and information science in identifying, collecting, processing, and managing data and information to support nursing practice, administration, education, research, and the expansion of nursing knowledge. † (Murphy, J. 2010). The International Classification of Nursing Practices was initiated by three nurses throughout the world (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008).The 1990’s were a big decade for the advancement of nursing informatics. The first journal pertaining to informatics in nursing was initiated and it was online. The Online Journal of Nursing Informatics hit the wires in 1996. This online publication focused, and still focuses on publishing peer-review articles, scientific papers, review articles, practice-based articles and data bases related to nursing informatics (McGonigle, D. , Seymour, R. , Englebardt, S. , Allen, M. , Chang, B. 2001). This journal is currently published with the amazing staff of one (McGonigle, D. , Seymour, R. Englebardt, S. , Allen, M. , Chang, B. 2001). In the 2000’s and today nursing has the tools and the terminology, which had taken years of development with the collaboration of numerous nursing professionals globally (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). A standardized language had been developed and nursing terminology and data standards were implemented mainstream (Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. 2008). In 2004 nursi ng informatics had blown up. Education had accelerated and nursing informatics had become a staple in healthcare. Knowledge discovery methods were the key in discovering risks in health.Nurses knew that the discovery of knowledge brings the responsibility of that knowledge and with this information nursing care is the best it has ever been (Murphy, J. 2010). In 2001 the definition of nursing informatics was expanded by the ANA. They described it as: A specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science, and information science to manage and communicate data, information, and knowledge in nursing practice. NI facilitates the integration of data, information, and knowledge to support patients, nurses, and other providers in their decision-making in all roles and settings.This support is accomplished through the use of information structures, information processes, and IT (Murphy, J. 2010). And in 2008, the current definition of nursing informatics was published. It was essenti ally the same as the first published definition in 1994, however, now includes the additional concept of wisdom. It reads â€Å"NI is a specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science, and information science to manage and communicate data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice. † (Murphy, J. 2010).Additionally, the ANA published three editions of Nursing Informatics Scope and Standards of Practice (ANA. 2008). We as nurses must remember that change is always a difficult thing to embrace. By studying information in an informatics prospective discover how to deliver care and support decisions more effectively and safely, with better outcomes for all constituencies. Informatics tools can support the translation of knowledge into practice, but changing the behavior of people, organizations, and systems requires collaboration across a range of disciplines.Nursing and healthcare will always be ever-changing. Change and collaborations for implementing c hange are fundamental in the education of nurses today. Today nurses are able to access new information and resources easier and faster than ever. Nurses are constantly being challenged to amalgamate new resources on a cognitive, psychomotor and executive level. Nurses of the future can learn technological skills and expand their knowledge and wisdom and can utilize the data.They are encouraging the changes to take place for the nursing practice and healthcare systems by learning, implementing and teaching. Change and evolution through informatics will only improve healthcare and will save more lives. Nursing informatics has become a well established specialty within the nursing field. Solid fundamentals have been laid out over the past 25 years and NI has become an essential part of healthcare delivery despite the many barriers yet to be overcome. It is influenced by environmental, political, economic and professional forces.The change that nurses are bringing are being influenced by new up-and-coming concepts of health and illness, advancements in the field of medical science, the patterns of diseases, demographics and an increasing ability to meet the needs of disease management and prevention as well as the needs of the patients and their families through the use of technology, knowledge and wisdom. As the specialty of nursing informatics continues to evolve new knowledge and technology will be available making the role of the nurse much more important and powerful and making the care and outcomes of each person served improved.It is how the nurse participates in saving a life; one step at a time. References Edwards, H. (2011). Nursing informatics: past, present and future. Retrieved from www. theconference. ca/nursing-informatics. Murphy, J. (2010). Nursing informatics: the intersection of nursing, computer, and information sciences. Nursing Economics, vol. 28, Iss. 3, 204-7, May/June 2010. Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc. Pitman, USA. Retrieved from http://ezpr oxy. ccu. edu/login? url=http://search. proquest. com/docview/577364695? accountid=10200. Ozbolt, J. G. , Saba, V. K. (2008). A brief history of nursing informatics in the United States of America.Mosby’s Nursing Consult. Vol. 56, Iss. 5, September 2008. American Nurses Association. (2008). Retrieved from: http://www. nursingworld. org/HomepageCategory/NursingInsider/Archive_1/2008NI/Jan08NI/RevisedNursingInformaticsPracticeScopeandStandardsofPractice. html. Thede, L. , (January 23, 2012) â€Å"Informatics: Where Is It? † OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing Vol. 17 No. 1. McGonigle, D. , Seymour, R. , Englebardt, S. , Allen, M. , Chang, B. (March 1, 2001) â€Å"The Online Journal of Nursing Informatics (OJNI)† Online Journal of Issues in Nursing. Vol. 6 No. 2. CIS312A, Healthcare InformaticsStudent Self-Grading Grid for APA Format Instructions: Complete and submit this form with your final scholarly paper by the due date listed on the Due Dates page. E ach item in the category needs to be checked for compliance. Name:Jackie Bailey |Met/Not Met |Criteria | | |General | | |Margins, 1 in on all sides | |Entire document is double space | |M |Times New Roman, Font 12 is used for entire document | | |Text alignment – left & not justified (there will be an uneven right margin) | | |Paragraphs are indented ? nches | | |Spelling and grammar are correct | | |Paper is 3-5 pages, not including Title page and Reference page | | |Title page | |M |Title information is centered in the upper half of title page | |(section break not met, |Title of paper on first line; student name on second line; faculty name on 3rd line; course & course number on 4th | |couldn’t figure out how |line; date on 5th line | |to do it) |Running head is present [Running head: ALL CAPITAL TITLE] in header, left justified | | |Page number is in upper right hand (in the header box) | | |Title page and first page of body is separated by a section break | | |Bod y of document | | |Title is centered at the top of the first page of the body of document | | |Headings used, if appropriate (frequently this is very helpful) | | |An introductory/background paragraph begins the paper | | |All paragraphs have at least 2 sentences; no paragraphs longer than 2/3 of a page | |M |Paragraphs contain only one topic |(except page break) |Transition sentence at end of paragraph provides logical flow to next paragraph | | |All citations are in appropriate format | | |All citations in the body are also listed in the reference page | | |Short quotations (less than 40 words or 4 lines) have quotation marks and a page number in the in-text citation | | |Long quotes (>40 words or > 4 lines are typed in free standing block format with all lines at ? inch left indent of| | |paragraph and without quotation marks | | |quotes are enclosed in quotation marks | | |Body and Reference page are separated by a page break |Met/Not Met |Criteria | | |Mechanics of Writin g | | |Proper use of colons, commas, & semicolons | | |Spacing: one space after commas, semicolons, colons | | |Spacing: two spaces at the end of each sentence | | |Abbreviations: Use sparingly: first time in document name spelled out completely with abbreviations in parenthesis,| |M |abbreviation used after first time | | |Pronouns and possessive nouns are used correctly | | |Parallel structure present | | |Tense is consistent (doesn’t go from future, to present, to past tense) | | Numbers: Numbers that begin sentence are spelled out; words are generally used to express numbers less than 10 | | |Reference Page | | |The word References is centered and at the top of page | | |Hanging indent is used for all references (not enter and tabbed in) | |M |All references are in the proper format (books, journals, web sites etc. ) | | |All references cited are also in the document | | |All references in the body are also in the reference list | | |References are in alphabetical order | CIS 312, Healthcare Informatics Final Scholarly Paper Grading Grid Scholarly Paper Grading Grid |Points Possible |Points Received | |Criteria | | | |APA & Word Formatting |45 | | |Paper set up using all principles of APA & Word (15) | | | |Title Page (5) | | | |Text Body (5) | | | |Reference Page (5) | | | |All references cited in the body were included in the reference page. No references were included | | | |in the reference page that were not cited in the body of the paper. | | |APA Grammar (15) | | | |Good principles of sentence structure, language, and writing mechanics were followed. | | | |Paper is 3-5 pages not including the Title Page and References Page | | | |Self Grading Form |10 | | |Paper was graded, using form.All items on form was accurately marked as met – or explanation | | | |given; Form was submitted with final paper | | | |Quality of References |25 | | |At least 6 references were used that came from scholarly journals or quality web sites, as | | | |iden tified in the CINAHL/web search activity | | | |Content & Clarity of writing style | | | |Content and flow of paper demonstrated good writing principles; changes, based on faculty feedback | | | |from preliminary outline were included. | | |Introduction to topic was compelling (20) | | | |Body included major points (35) | | | |Summary helped the reader understand the importance and essence of the topic (15) | | | | | | | | |70 | | |TOTAL POINTS

Meeting at Night/Parting at Morning Appreciation

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Creative individual Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Creative individual - Essay Example Throughout his career, Mozart is said to have composed over 600 pieces with many of them being symphonies, chambers and types of choral music. Mozart’s creativity brought him to light at a very young age, where at merely five years of age he was given the opportunity to perform before the European Royalty. Since a young age Mozart had a passion to grow up as a great musician and this is what led him to leave the position of a court musician in Salzburg. Most of his famous works are believed to be composed in Vienna, a little before his death (ABERT, H., SPENCER, S., & EISEN, 2007). Before shedding light on Mozart’s creativity in light of various definitions, creativity theories and academic literature it is highly essential that I put forward my view of the creative personality. Mozart’s creativity if brought to light from the fact that he was, and is most likely the only composer in history to have produced masterpieces in not one, but practically all genres of music. His work was widely spread across various genres and this alone sheds light on how creatively different he was able to think as a musician. It is said about him that Mozart did his first concerto at the young age of just four, while he went on with his first symphony at the age of seven. But Mozart did not stop there, and went to perform at this first Opera at the young age of just 12 years. Throughout the musical world, many have regarded Mozart as a child genius. Moreover, the various manuscripts written by Mozart have led people to believe that his works were often composed in j ust one go, as compared to completing the piece in various sittings (CAMPBELL, 2000). Before proceeding to discuss how, if Mozart was creative at all, it is essential we first understand the definition of creativity. The famous dictionary Merriam Webster defines creativity as the quality of being creative or the ability to create new and different things. Looking at Mozart in the light of this very

Business Continuity Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

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High School and Chronicle of a Summer Film Essay

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Economics of the Forex Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

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Belgium Chocolate Industry Essay Example for Free

Belgium Chocolate Industry Essay First introduction is when Spanish conquistadors met Azctec king. 1585 first recorded shipment from veracruz to Sevilla, Spain and spread to Europe from there. The first recorded shipment of chocolate to Europe for commercial purposes was in a shipment from Veracruz to Sevilla in 1585. [17] It was still served as a beverage, but the Europeans added cane sugar to counteract the natural bitterness and removed the chili pepper while retaining the vanilla, in addition they added cinnamon as well as other spices. In Spain, it quickly became a court favorite. In a century it had spread and become popular throughout the European continent. [26] To keep up with the high demand for this new drink, Spanish armies began enslaving Mesoamericans to produce cacao. [27] Even with cacao harvesting becoming a regular business, only royalty and the well-connected could afford to drink this expensive import. [28] Before long, the Spanish began growing cacao beans on plantations, and using an African workforce to help manage them. [29] The situation was different in England. Put simply, anyone with money could buy it. [30] The first chocolate house opened in London in 1657. 30] In 1689, noted physician and collector Hans Sloane developed a milk chocolate drink in Jamaica which was initially used by apothecaries, but later sold to the Cadbury brothers in 189715] For hundreds of years, the chocolate-making process remained unchanged. When the Industrial Revolution arrived, many changes occurred that brought about the food today in its modern form. A Dutch familys (van Houten) inventions made mass production of shiny, tasty chocolate bars and related products possible. In the 18th century, mechanical mills were created that squeezed out cocoa butter, which in turn helped to create hard, durable chocolate. 32] But, it was not until the arrival of the Industrial Revolution that these mills were put to bigger use. Not long after the revolution cooled down, companies began advertising this new invention to sell many of the chocolate treats we see today. [33] When new machines were produced, people began experiencing and consuming chocolate worldwide. [34] At the end of the 18th century, the first form of solid chocolate was invented in Turin by Doret. This chocolate was sold in large quantities from 1826 by Pierre Paul Caffarel in Italy. In 1819, F. L. Cailler opened the first Swiss chocolate factory. In 828, Dutchman Coenraad Johannes van Houten patented a method for extracting the fat from cocoa beans and making powdered cocoa and cocoa butter. Van Houten also developed the so-called Dutch process of treating chocolate with alkali to remove the bitter taste. This made it possible to form the modern chocolate bar. The German company Jordan Timaeus sold the first known chocolate bar made from cocoa, sugar and goats milk in 1839. [35] In England, the company,J. S. Fry Sons discovered a way to mix some of the cocoa butter back into the Dutched chocolate, and added sugar, creating a paste that could be moulded. This led to the first British chocolate bar in 1847, followed in 1849 by the Cadbury brothers. Wikipedia In most cases, the answer will be: chocolate – surprisingly or not. But when and how did Belgium become synonymous for top-quality chocolate? The history of Belgian chocolate reaches back as far as the 17th century, when the country was ruled by the Spanish, whose explorers had brought cocoa back from South America. At the time, cocoa was enjoyed as a luxury drink for the royals, nobility and artists who visited the royal courts in Brussels. Interestingly, the story of Swiss chocolate can also be traced back to Brussels. In the late 17th century, Henri Escher, the mayor of Zurich, visited Brussels and fell in love with the cocoa drinks he was served. He was so over the moon that he introduced the idea to Switzerland. Three centuries later, Switzerland remains Belgium’s main competitor when it comes to chocolate. In the centuries that followed, chocolate became increasingly popular amongst a wide public, but it took until the second half of the 19th century for Belgium to truly indulge in its passion for chocolate. Under the rule of King Leopold II, Belgium colonised Congo, where it found its own unlimited cocoa supply. This put Belgium right at the heart of the cocoa trade. Back in Belgium, in 1857, Jean Neuhaus (funnily enough of Swiss origin) had opened a pharmaceutical sweets shop in Brussels, where he also sold bars of bitter chocolate. The first chocolate shop was born. Some 60 years later, it was Neuhaus’ grandson who invented the praline when creating an empty chocolate shell with a sweet filling. So, what makes Belgian chocolate so special, so very delicious and in a league of its own? The secret is two-fold: ingredients and process. Of course, the origin and orientation of the cacao plantation, as well as the roasting of the beans all help to determine the flavour. But the main reason for the pure and full cocoa flavour is the fact that no vegetable shortening is used. Belgian chocolate traditionally mixes cocoa paste, sugar and cocoa butter in varying proportions. Dark Belgian chocolate uses the most cocoa; milk chocolate mixes in milk; and white chocolate is made be extracting only the butter from the cocoa. On the other hand, there is the process, which to date is steeped in tradition and craftsmanship, and still holds a hint of secrecy.

Psychoanalysis as a Form of Literary Criticism

Psychoanalysis as a Form of Literary Criticism Psychoanalysis is a set of psychological theories that was founded by the Austrian physician Sigmund Freud in his work Interpretation of Dreams (1900). By bringing up models for the human psyche such as tripartite model (considering human mind as being consisted of an Ego, Superego and Id), proposing different stages of human development (including oral, anal and phallic stage) and also mentioning Oedipus , Electra and Castration complexes, which were a great contribution towards Psychoanalysis and Psychoanalytic criticism . Oedipus Complex: the unresolved desire of a child for sexual gratification through the parent of the opposite sex, especially the desire of a son for his mother. This involves, first, identification with and, later, hatred for the parent of the same sex, who is considered by the child as a rival. Castration Complex: What prevents the male child from continuing to have incestuous desires for his mother is the fear of being castrated by his father as punishment for his desires. This approach then continued by psychologists such as Carl.G.Jung and Jaques Lacan. Lacan tries to analyze the hows and whys of human action. In this regard language has a significant role, psychoanalysis declares that language shapes the individuals emotions and experiences and as Lacan believed Language shapes and ultimately structures our unconscious and conscious minds while also shaping our self-identity. (Bressler, I34) Because psychoanalysis is concerned with the amorphous human stuff, before it is influenced by culture, language and history, its concern lies in the very intersection of pre-history and history. Pre-history is recognized with qualities such as indivisibility, non-integration, plentitude and oneness while history is related through difference, subjectivity and separation. In other words, the main concern of psychoanalysis is the continual tension between differentiation and non-differentiation. As Lacan believed, human beings go through different stages in order to be able to differentiate themselves as a separate entity in order to reach the sense of individuation. These stages are imaginary order, mirror stage and symbolic order. When the infant is in the first phase, the imaginary order, he imagines himself as united with his mother and cannot see the boundaries, but then in the mirror stage he begins to know that he is separated from his mother and the external world; although, this is just an allusion because he cannot move his body or eat whatever he desires. In the third phase, the symbolic order, the baby considers himself as separated and begins to learn language and this is where language gradually molds his identity. Intro John Fords Tis Pity shes a Whore encourages us to identify with its central characters complete identification with the pre-Oedipal, only for that sympathy to turn belatedly to disgust. The play dramatizes an incestuous relationship between Giovanni and his sister Annabella which leads to pregnancy and ends in disaster and death. Set in Parma, Italy, the story takes place against a background of lust, vengeance and greed that serves as a critique of contemporary culture and morality. Giovanni was warned about the seriousness of his sin by the Friar, but as Giovanni describes it is out of his control. After Annabella decides to end her relation and marry her suitor Soranzo, Giovanni falls in distress. Soranzo plans to catch Giovanni and Anabella in the process of love-making so he leads the situation so that they end up in his own bedroom, and have them murdered. Giovanni talks to Anabella and after realizing their impossible situation he kills her and exits and later on enters Soranz os party with Annabellas heart on his sword and after a battle kills Soranzo and dies himself from his wounds. Analysis Giovanni the central protagonist is a pre-Oedipal narcissist, he returns subjectivity to a pre-Oedipal state which literally consumes the other part of a self and makes two completely separate things into one self-same entity. Incest is a case within the pre-Oedipal stage. It breaks the laws of the post-Oedipal sexual and linguistic difference, in this case confusing the names of brother and sister with the name of lover. Giovanni rejects God as the creator of the world and gives himself the right to refashion and restate laws as a result of his pre-Oedipal desire. Giovanni emphasizing on the oneness he believes with his sister which was the womb where the both were born of seeks reunion and conjoining, looking towards his sister as an object, an object of love and devotion which eases the feeling of division within him. Love symbolically castrates Giovanni and the castration leads him to exile from his identity and masculine self, leading him to a state of a pre-genital, pre-linguis tic non-differentiation.  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Giovanni also seeks another kind of unity which is the unity between sign, language and reality and he believes his words are directly from his emotions. Imitating words of poetic lovers; however, this language further separates and alienates him from the object of love which is Annabella for example when he is reading a sonnet for Anabella repeatedly interrupts him, these interruptions indicate Annabellas refusal to see herself in Giovannis inscriptions and results in violence. Unable to cope with losing his Annabella to Soranzo and his refusal of reality he kills and removes Anabellas heart from her body and enters the final scene with the heart on his dagger. Giovannis violent response to the trauma of exile (exile from Anabellas heart, life womb and bed) is to destroy in order to retain everything that is to be separated from him. His pre-Oedipal narcissistic fantasy is based upon the utter eradication or absorption by others leading hi m to create an iconic approach in the final scene obliterating all competing realities. Intro In Ben Jonsons Bartholomew Fair, an ensemble of various London characters attends the yearly fair in Smithfield commemorating the martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew. First performed in 1614, particularly the theme that when social order is turned upside down or absent, predators emerge to construct a new order based on cheating other characters. At the fair, the characters argue, steal, fight, and cheat while consuming roast pig, ale, gingerbread in a swirl of gluttony, profanity, and sex. Three authority figures, Humphrey Wasp, Justice Adam Overdo, and the Puritan Rabbi Zeal-of-the-Land Busy, seek to control other characters, but they cannot control their own appetites. When the three authority figures accede to their own appetites and gorge themselves, the audience and the characters realize that the fair has its own social order. Analysis For the purpose of the psychoanalytic interpretation of Bartholmew Fair, author will be read as Oedipal father/father-figure; audience as fathers wayward children conscripted by the father at the beginning of the play to the principle of solitary, and the fair as the occasional pleasure, sensual release and enjoyments forbidden by the father as audience are expected to keep their distance from the fair, preventing their fall into the pre-Oedipal world of the fair. The Carnival is the pre-modern equivalent of Freuds polymorphously perverse pre-Oedipal child whose bodily drives have not yet been regulated. The bizarre game played by several of the characters of vapours which involves contradicting one another for the sake of contradiction depicts the discharge of undirected bodily energies and the pig-woman Ursula who is the body of the fair psychoanalytical perspectives of the infantile desire towards the mothers body. Quarlous one of the spectators finds Ursula as a swamp that a man can sink within. Based on the Oedipus complex perspective, Ursula is that womb like state which can draw a man back to the non-differentiation state, while the aim of Ursula is to make money out of the fairs visitors, a capitalist simulation of the blissful state of pre-Oedipal indivisibility. Cokes represent an unregulated infant who bothers his guardian because he is attracted to each and every capital object within the fair. Bartholmew Fair is a questioning of e xternal authority and its externally imposed laws of difference and an embrace, which falls under the fantasies of pre-Oedipal state. Conclusion Psychoanalysis plays an important role in literary criticism, the approach to analyze a characters whats and hows of action without an aesthetic concern and to find a reason for their thoughts can be beneficial to the way readers interpret a literary work, and for authors to create distinguished characters based upon their concern. The Oedipus complex and the personality disorders were enlightened through   Giovannis Violence and death in Tis pity shes a Whore, which were a result of the intolerance of separation from his object of love; in addition, Cokes infantile desires in Bartholomew Fair is a shining example of rejecting adult-separateness.

2000 US Presidental Election Essay -- essays research papers

Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The US Presidential Election of 2000 featured George W. Bush and Al Gore. It will go down in history as one of the most closest elections ¡Ã‚ ¦ in US history. It also goes down as one of the most controversial. The final decision was based on just a few hundred votes in Florida. The controversy began when the media prematurely declared the winner twice based solely on exit polls. They finally conceded that the Florida count was just too close to predict. It would take a month before the election was ultimately certified after numerous court challenges and vote recounts. Republican candidate George W. Bush was declared the winner of the Florida ¡Ã‚ ¦s 25 electoral votes. This was a victory by a razor thin margin of popular votes. It was just the fourth time in United States history that a candidate had won the Presidency while losing the popular vote. How could this be and furthermore, how could this happen? Is this just the tip of the iceberg that election ref orm is necessary? We need to insure that every American vote counts. This is supposed to be the basis of getting Americans to the voting booths according to our founding fathers. So what can be done to make sure that every vote DOES count? The Campaign   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Al Gore was chosen by the Democratic Party as their choice for nomination. Al Gore had previously served under US President, Bill Clinton, and was immediately the front runner as the party ¡Ã‚ ¦s top choice. His choice for Vice President was Senator Joseph Lieberman of Connecticut. Leiberman was also the first person of Jewish dissent to be name to a national party ticket. His choice of Lieberman was determined to have been made to separate Gore from the scandals of President Clinton. It was necessary for Al Gore to distance himself as far as possible from the inherited connections. He declared himself as defender of the people against large corporations, special interest groups, and the powerful. He pledged to extend Medicare to assist senior citizens purchase prescription drugs, push for a universal health care system, lower crime rates, and maintain the strength of our standing army.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Al Gore began his campaign trail by attacking George W. Bush ¡Ã‚ ¦s tax plans. A firm believer that these plans were only intended to benefit the most wealthy of America ¡Ã‚ ¦s citizens.... ...her. Why vote if their vote won ¡Ã‚ ¦t be counted? Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are both advantages and disadvantages in the current Electoral College System. Some of the advantages include the contribution of the cohesiveness of the country by requiring a distribution of the popular support to be elected president. It can also enhance the status of minority interest. It maintains the political stability of the nations with the encouragement of a two party system. It also maintains a federal system of government and representation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Disadvantages that are considered are the possibility of electing a minority president. Also the possibility of the Electoral College ¡Ã‚ ¦s role in suppressing voter turnout. It also could fail to accurately reflect the national popular choice.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It can be argued that we shouldn ¡Ã‚ ¦t change what our founding fathers intended. However, we must also remember that they denied the vote to blacks and women at first. They also didn ¡Ã‚ ¦t trust citizens to elect US Senators as well. Things change with time for good reasons. It is time to change the voting process in the United States today.

Censorship :: essays research papers

Censorship "The song [Cop Killer] is fiction, not fact. At no point did I go out and say 'Let's do it.' I am singing in the first person as a character who is fed up with police brutality. I ain't never killed no cop. I felt like it a lot of times. But I never did" -Rapper Ice-T, National Review, July 20, 1992. Statements such as that has started an on going debate about censorship in the television and music industry. What exactly is censorship? Some feel censorship is a violation of the first amendment right. Others say censorship is a must in the violent, abusive world we call "society". Who has the right to censor? Who doesn't? What needs to be censored, and what doesn't? The fact of the matter is that their are the pro's and con's in the music and entertainment industry about censorship. Since its invention earlier this century, television has become the most popular format for entertainment. We can be entertained, informed, and inspired by programs on TV. In fact, Americans love TV so much that we probably watch far too much of it. TV stations are becoming less restrictive about content in their programs. More violence, profanity, and nudity than ever before now graces our TV screens every night. Clearly, there are things that children should not be seeing on TV. The new V-chip legislation passed be Congress requires all TV manufactures to install an electronic device that allows parents to set the tolerance levels for violence, profanity, and nudity. However, are children's viewing habits the responsibility of the government or the parents? There are several arguments that can be made on censorship on TV. One for example, what the pro's for censorship? What are the con's? The are a lot of good points and bad points about censorship on TV. A good point that can be made is that there are a lot of violence and profanity on the "tube". This can be clearly stopped by the new V-chip legislation just passed. But would the V-chip automatic censor block out such violent dramas a "Schindler's List," "Root." or "Gone With the Wind?" Would producers make a television mini-series about the bloody Civil War, which very likely would be blocked as too violent, or pass on such a project for fear of censorship? Another good point to censor certain TV shows is the theme of the show or movie.

Hamlet Essay -- essays research papers

Play vs. Movie   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Watching both play and movie, makes you wonder about the differences and the similarities. Paying attention to those kinds of things makes you realize your sense of thought. In this essay I will be taking you into a deeper level on Hamlet.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Now by seeing the movie Hamlet vs. the play Hamlet, you will notice that scene one came right after scene two in the movie. It threw me off a little bit because you were least expecting it. The other change was when Ophelia was talking with her dad, that never happened in the play. The last and final change was when they were barring Ophelia , in the play she was in the grave and Hamlet had jumped in the grave to testify his love for her, but now in the movie, s...

How to Swim the Freestyle Stroke

Erika Eissler February 18, 2010 How to Swim the Freestyle Stroke The freestyle is also known as the front crawl or the sidestroke. It is used in competitions but there are no real regulations on how it has to be swum. Most swimmers choose to swim front crawl during freestyle competition because it is the fastest technique. For individual freestyle competitions, however, a swimmer can use any stroke they want, but during medley competitions they cannot use the breaststroke, butterfly stroke or backstroke. The freestyle stroke involves: coordination, movement and breathing. First off, coordination is the key to successfully learning how to swim. Visualize a line running down the center of the body from the chin to the chest. This line is the axis upon which the whole body should move, and it should extend horizontally in the direction one is swimming. Keep the legs straight with the toes pointed out, and kick up and down. The secret is to continue kicking the entire time. Remain horizontal in the water. A strong kick will keep the legs from sinking behind one’s body. The kick should not make a big splash, but rather, should just churn the surface of the water. Also remember to move the arms in a windmill motion opposite of each other. While one arm is extended completely out, the other should be all the way back, almost against the side of the body. Keep the hands flat, thumb separated from the index finger and pull the extended arm through the water beneath the body. Bend the arm at the elbow and draw the fingertips along the imaginary line down the center of the body. Stretch each stroke out as much as possible without ever pausing from the windmill motion. Most importantly, remember to breathe on one side by turning the head to that side as the arm comes out of the water. After that, lift the other arm out of the water and move it all the way forward as the first arm is pulling beneath the body. Then while bending at the elbow, drag the fingertips along the surface of the water. Penetrate the water with the fingertips and completely extend the arm. As the hands are being pulled through the water, keep them cupped firmly, but not rigidly. Fingers should be held just slightly apart. These few steps are the basics of learning how to freestyle swim. It is the most basic swim style and is very commonly used. Coordination, movement and breathing are the main factors in learning how to swim. These steps will definitely increase your swimming successfulness.

ALDI & Australia

The retail industry in Australia is considered as one of pillars of its economy. The industry has improved immensely as the players in the market have increased and the variety of commodities has expanded immensely. At present, the industry is populated by companies that range from multinationals to small and medium scale. Among the players, ALDI Australia is considered as a major player in the industry. The firm has expanded from a single foreign branch to a major retail chain. It operates in the main markets of Australia and in other regions across the country.ALDI was taken from the original name of the company which was Albrecht Discount. Before expanding to Australia, ALDI established its presence in Germany Gradually, the company operations stretched to other locations across the world. ALDI is regarded as one of the biggest supermarket chain worldwide. In Australia, ALDI has approximately 160 retail chains. This number is expected to grow as ALDI continues to be aggressive in the industry. Despite strong competition, ALDI Australia has managed to establish its own identity and has already controlled a significant portion of the market.It is imperative to study the current situation within ALDI Australia. The outside environment of the company is another important aspect to investigate. The succeeding discussion will focus on the capacity of ALDI to dominate the market. This requires evaluation of the capacity of ALDI and the external aspects that can affect its performance. The strategies used by ALDI have been working so far. But there are still rooms for improvements that needed to be manifested. II. The External Environment Porter (1979) introduced the concept of five forces that seeks to analyse the competition in an industry.This serves as an effective tool used in creating a picture of the retail industry. Based on the model, there are four forces that have to be assessed to determine the condition of the fifth force (McGahan, 2004). These interact with other to determine the overall condition of the market. The five forces model is critical especially to retail firms. The level of competition in the industry is high. Hence it is imperative for ALDI Australia to appraise the situation of the industry. The threat of new entrants shows the possible repercussions of the openness of the industry which is high in the industry.The current condition of the industry coupled by the continuous increase in demand justifies the viability of the industry as an investment hub for new entrants. New entrants, however, have to consider the barriers that can affect their success. Australia is a major market and houses consumers with high buying power. This means that the opportunity for retailers to operate is high. In addition, demand for consumer products has remained high. The emergence and threat of substitutes shows the low tendency, but suddenly emerging alternative retail firms.The conventional form of retail includes the shops and stor es located in strategic areas. With the advent of technology, several forms of retailing have flourished. Online retailing has become a threat because most consumers have patronised the online retailing scheme instead of the traditional shopping. The bargaining power of the consumers determines the capacity of the consumers to purchase the goods and price sensitivity. It has to be noted that most products in ALDI are demand inelastic and the income per capita in Australia is one of the highest in the world.This means that price changes will have gradual effect to the buying decision of the consumers. Moreover, the buying capacity of Australian households can satisfy their needs and have spare for luxuries. Buyer preference is also another major consideration. Consumers in Australia are dynamic and susceptible to changes. It is important to weigh company goals with consumer requirements. The bargaining power of the suppliers which is high provides the capabilities of the supplier to meet the demand of the industry. Basically, the agricultural industry of Australia is of quality as evidenced by the fresh food sold in retail stores.In addition, raw material is cheaper making retail products highly affordable for consumers. Australia is also highly accessible some Asian countries. The possibility of importing products is given and savings gained from such strategy are high. ALDI has all the resources to satisfy the demands of the consumers and sustain changes. These factors sum up the rivalry among competitors, which intensify in the industry. The retail industry is highly competitive and can potentially allow investors to succeed. It is evident that ALDI will continually face threats both industry based and substitutes.ALDI Australia is in an environment where it can take advantage of the opportunities. Intense competition leads to quality retailed food and eventually benefits for the customers. III. Internal Aspects Deming (1986) mentioned the need to attain qua lity results in all the process of production. The technical process pertains to the emphasis of quality in the different stages of operations. The rationale behind this strategy is that the continuous inclusion of quality in the process will result to highly competitive and superior products.The social process is provided by Juran (1974) in the assumptions of TQM. The social process includes the provision of suitable tools to boost the tendency of workers to prioritise quality. ALDI Australia has to evaluate its capacity within to achieve sustainable success. One significant observation that can be made is that the company has wide range of quality food sources. This is in references to the responsible food sourcing that the company adopts. At present, ALDI boosts up to 700 different grocery products. The supplies of the company are considered as one of its valuable resources.Because of its outstanding food production materials, the quality of the finished products has improved. Bo osting the food with the finest inputs allow the company to effectively satisfy the needs of the consumers. The quality sources also make the company more cost-effective. Another important resource of the company is its identity. This is established through the brand name of ALDI. The brand has the gained the distinction of being the most trusted retailer in Australia. Over the years, the brand name has been embraced in different areas of the world.The credibility of the company is one of its intangible resources that deserved to be recognised. It is known as one of best stores in finding cheap commodities. ALDI Australia greatly depends on its employees for positive results. Indeed, the performance of the workers will influence the success of the firm. ALDI Australia boasts a workforce loaded with competency and talent. The hiring system of the company ensures that the best are selected at the end of the process. The company provides comprehensive training programs to continuously equip the employees with the skills needed in the industry.At present ALDI have over 2,000 employees across Australia. This manpower is one of the most valuable components of the retail store. It addresses the needs of the consumers and provides top-notch service. The stores are regarded as one of the finest. The stores of ALDI Australia are uniquely designed suit the shopping preference of its customers. All ALDI stores have similar sizes and designs. Unlike conventional retail shops, the stores of the company provide an aesthetic environment for buyers. The company emphasises of proper location which makes the stores effective.The success of the stores is credited on the ability of the firm to match substance and form. It is important to instil in the minds of the consumers that more than quality food, buying at ALDI Australia stores is a wonderful experience. The franchises that the company has established worldwide has helped the company is establishing global market presence. T he supermarkets represent ALDI overseas and such resource has provided huge dividends. Several investors in other countries have noticed the increased attention given to the food products of ALDI. This will translate to better opportunities for the supermarket in the future.IV. Company Strategies Strategies of firms are considered to lean towards the strategic scope focusing on the demand, and the strategic strength concentrating on the supply. Porter (1980) further simplified the method by reducing the strategy to three dimensions that include: cost leadership, differentiation, and segmentation. These aspects will be used to analyse the strategy of ALDI Australia in its objective to remain at the forefront of the competition. ALDI values the cheapness of its products. Low-cost goods available at ALDI stores entice most of its consumers and prospects.The cost leadership strategy values efficiency. ALDI has been providing several programs to improve its efficiency. Specific strategie s involve the establishment of distribution centres. Transportation expenses were reduced because of accessible distribution points. The logistic system has been improved to reduce non-performing components of the distribution process. The differentiation strategy of the company is assigned to the research and development team. ALDI have been working with suppliers. This is the initial process that will eventually lead to better products and innovative solutions.Workforce efficiency is a major issue that the company includes in its strategies. Incentives are also provided to workers based on the quantity and quality of work. The performance of the firm is highly dependent on the manner in which customer service and operational activities are manifested by the employees. The contribution provided by the personnel along with the top-notch products sum up the offering of ALDI Australia to its customers. Porter (1985) identified primary activities and support activities in the process o f value-adding. ALDI Australia has been dedicated in maximising value and minimising cost.The company has provided top-notch inbound logistics with its equipments and machines transferring the raw materials without damaging the freshness. The handling of the food from the farmlands to the processing site is meticulously managed. Moreover, the manner in which the food are packed and processed follows quality procedures. In the processing part, ALDI Australia has devoted all necessary resources to maintain the high value of food taken from the finest farms in Australia. ALDI retails stores are designed to ensure the high quality of its products.After the products have been placed in distributions centres, the sales and marketing team will work (Bonn, 2007). Aside from the television and print advertisements, the company has relied on the Internet to introduce ALDI Australia in the market. In addition, the stores of ALDI Australia are highly accessible ensuring that shoppers will exper ience no problems while purchasing food. The customer service initiative of the company is highly recognised since service is extended after the purchases are completed. The company has been using storage devices that emphasise on the freshness of the products.Products that have long shelf lives are safely stored in areas free from causing damage. The transportation arteries from the company to the distribution sites are improved and results to fast travel. Cost is reduced through efficient storage devises and the consumption for energy is decreased using better delivery systems. The company strictly follows a low price philosophy. In most convenient stores, products are usually priced with high mark-ups. The strategy of ALDI is to sell in high quantity at lower prices. ALDI has created an efficient checkout system (Bonn, 2007).This is implemented to prevent customers from spending time queuing when making payments. Aside from the checkouts, ALDI Australia has a systematised product display. Customer can easily identify the location of the goods needed without hassles. Although company savings are important for ALDI, the retail store understands that customers also need to be provided with ample savings in all forms. ALDI Australia sells a wide variety of products. Some stores are limited, but ALDI caters to the needs of its customers. As stated earlier, ALDI sells at least 700 kinds of products in its stores.These products range from highly perishable to preserved products (Bonn, 2007). Aside from food, ALDI also sells other merchandises used for general purposes. The firm has been using a stringent quality control process. ALDI personnel ensure that damaged products are segregated from the intact goods. The inventory system of ALDI also assures that the fresh stocks are provided to the consumers. Expansion is one of the goals of the company. ALDI targets its store count to be in the 200 level by 2008. This means that ALDI Australia will be established in oth er areas where demand is high.At present the store count of ALDI Australia is at 165 shops. Although the target still huge, it is highly realisable considering the capacity of the company. ALDI Australia remains committed to serve its customers and make the stores closer to households. V. Strategy Analysis In the retail industry, the success of strategies can be measured through operational decisions and marketing decisions (Bonn, 2007). Both are strengths of the ALDI Australia and remain as the fundamental driver of success. Because of its selling philosophy, the most logical method of market segmentation is by income.The social structure of households in Australia is part of the middle to upper levels. Aside from this group, ALDI Australia can control the lower bracket in the society. These groups are the consumers with the lowest income. The cheap products offered by ALDI Australia fits their budget. In theory, positioning refers to the perceptions developed in the minds of the t arget market. It entails the creation of image of the brand and the entire organisation (Trout and Rivkin, 1996). Positioning is purely procedural and relies on the completion of stages before making further improvements.Consumer preference is the most important aspect in this process. In addition, ALDI has to target the specific needs before making its position. It is evident that ALDI has established a niche in the industry. From this position, ALDI can become a strong player in the market. Combining the different aspects associated to marketing is vital to the company. The development of marketing mix entails strategies that are design to ensure consistency in the quality of performance (Culliton, 1948). Price and product quality are the two main components of the mix. Low price is insufficient to attract the consumers.Combining such aspect with high product quality creates better chances of succeeding. Strategic management is one of the staple initiatives being implemented by AL DI. Mintzberg (1989) observed that strategy is linked to plans and the behaviour patterns within organisations. The technical process of realising strategic management is divided into two areas. The first phase regard planning as course for intended strategy and the patterned actions are the realised strategies. The process of strategic planning has allowed ALDI to meticulously evaluate their positions in different markets.In addition, strategies of ALDI have remained generic. But ALDI has realised the need to make the strategies flexible to satisfy various needs of consumers. Lewin (1983) stated that corporate social responsibility highlights the duty of the organisations to their stakeholders. Instead on focusing on corporate activities, firms have decided to undertake endeavours with perceived social relevance. This has been one of the weak spots that ALDI needs to improve. Although financial gains from the process are low, ALDI can further improve its reputation. In the retail i ndustry, perception is an important influence to buyers.Firms that tend to provide aid to community activities are being supported by consumers through purchases. Benchmarking is another aspect that has to be developed by ALDI Australia. McNair and Leibfried (1992) contends that benchmarking is designed to leave the past behind and embrace the future. The benchmarking process has many defining aspects. It has to be purposeful, externally focused, measurement based, information intensive, objective, and action generating. All practices performed according to the needs of the firm. VI. Recommendations ALDI Australia is successful because of the pay less strategies and sound management fundamentals.The company needs to sustain its strengths and slowly eliminate the weaknesses. A foreign venture appears to be logical because the domestic market is starting to become overpopulated. The firm has to boost is project refresh and continue the dedication to provide the best infrastructures an d workforce. Combining these components with effective management and good strategies will ensure the robust growth being enjoyed by ALDI Australia. Expenses for advertisements cover most of the budget allocated for marketing. ALDI Australia has to provide inputs on matters that will improve the advertisements.The firm also needs to provide funds for the airing of the advertisements on televisions and even radios. Advertisements done using newspapers and other prints need to reflect the essence of Marks and Spencer food products. The advertisements in the websites need to be easily viewed and accessed (Drummond and Ensor, 2001). These initiatives have to be combined with traditional processes. It is also important for ALDI Australia to maintain balance between price and quality. There are criticisms made by competitors that ALDI’s initiative to sell goods in low prices is driven by the sub-par quality of goods.Ensuring that prices remain competitive is a must for ALDI. But th e company has to continuously address the need to keep product quality high. Through this strategy, ALDI will go on and improve its performance. References ALDI Australia. (2007). Company Philosophy. Date extracted: 9 November 2007, from: ALDI International. (2007). Date extracted: 9 November 2007, from: < http://www. aldi. com/> Bonn, I. (2007). â€Å"ALDI in Australia†, in Strategic Management: An Integrated Approach. Hill, by Hil, C. W. and Jones, G. Spring, IA: Houghton Mifflin College.Coriolis Research. (2000). ALDI in Australia: Whaty will be the Impact? Auckland: Coriolis Research Limited. Culliton, J. (1948). The Management of Marketing Cost. Boston: Harvard University – Graduate School of Business Administration. Deming, W. Edwards. (1986). Out of Crisis. Cambridge: MIT Centre for Advanced Engineering. Drummond, G and Ensor, J. (2001). Strategic Marketing Planning and Control. London: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd. Juran, Joseph. (1974). The Quality Control Handb ook 3rd Edition. New York: McGraw Hill. Lewin, T. (1983). The New York Times.â€Å"Business Ethic’s New Appeal. † McGahan, A. (2004). How Industries Evolve – Principles of Achieving and Sustaining Superior Performance. Boston: Harvard Business School Press. McNair and Leibfried. (1992). Benchmarking: A Tool for Continuous Improvement. Oliver Wright Publications. Mintzberg, Henry. (1989). Mintzberg on Management. London: Free Press. Porter, M. (1980). Competitive Advantage: Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors. New York: Free Press. Porter, M. (1985). Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance. New York: Free Press.

Critically evaluate the claim that culture is best understood as a system of symbolic classification Essay

Introduction                      This essay will focus on evaluating the claim that culture is perfectly understood as a symbolic classification system. Culture can be defined as cumulative deposit of beliefs, attitudes, knowledge, values, experience, roles, meanings, spatial relations, hierarchies, notions of time, possessions and material objects obtained by a group of individuals in the course of the generations through group and individual thriving. Culture involves patterns implicit and explicit, for and of behavior obtained and conveyed through symbols, representing the unique achievement of the human groups, comprising of their personifications in artifacts; the fundamental core of culture include the traditional ideas and particularly their emotionally involved values; culture systems on the other hand may be deemed as products of action. A symbol refers to any object, usually material, meant to stand for another, even though there is no significant relationship. Typically culture is founded on a shared set of meanings and symbols. Symbolic culture allows human communication and therefore must be taught. The symbolic culture is more adaptable and malleable than biological evolution. Humans subconsciously and consciously, strive always in making logic of their surrounding world. Some symbols like objects, words, gestures and signs assist individuals in understanding the world. Usually symbols offer clues in understanding the experiences. They usually express familiar meanings which are shared by the societies. Uniform and badge held by police officers represent symbols of law or authority enforcement. When an officer is seen wearing a uniform or in a squad car enhances reassurance in man citizens, and anger, fear, or annoyance among others (Browne et al, 1990, p38-p42). The world has countless symbols. Company logos, traffic signs and sports uniforms are some of the symbols. A gold sign in some cultures symbolizes marriage. There are some symbols which are very functional; for example, stop signs offers valuable instruction. They belong to the material culture since they are physical objects, however they function like symbols, in addition they pass on nonmaterial cultural meanings. Some of the symbols are only helpful in what they signify. Gold medals, trophies and blue ribbons, for instance, provide no other function other than representing the accomplishments. However numerous objects have both nonmaterial and material symbolic value. Symbols are usually taken for granted easily. Few individuals challenge or even consider sticking the figure signs on the public bathrooms’ doors. However those figures signs are more than being mere symbols which informs women and men which bathrooms they are supposed to use. Also they uphold the value, in U SA, that restrooms ought to be gender exclusive. Even if stalls are comparatively private, most places do not offer bathrooms that are unisex (Hoijer, 1954, p. 14). Symbols frequently get recognized when used out of context. Symbols express strong messages and are used unconventionally. Even destruction of symbols is perceived to be symbolic. Effigies signifying public figures are beaten so as to express anger at particular leaders. Crowds in 1989 tore down Berlin wall a symbols which decades-old of the division between West and East, capitalism and communism. While diverse cultures have different systems of symbols however language is common to all. Language refers to a symbolic system by which individuals’ converse and through which the culture is spread. Various languages include a system of symbols utilized for written communication, whereas others rely on nonverbal actions and spoken communication. Societies regularly share one language, and a lot of languages have the same fundamental components. An alphabet refers to a written system which is made of symbolic shapes which refer to sound which is spoken. These symbols taken together , express definite meanings. English alphabet employs a mixture of 26 letters in order to create words; where these 26 letters create over 600,000 English words which are recognized (Smith, 2001, p. 46). Case study 1                      Additionally, through using language, individuals’ converse without using words. The communication which is nonverbal is symbolic, and, similar to the case of language, a lot of it is learned by the individual’s culture. Various signals are almost universal: crying regularly represents sadness and smiles frequently signify joy. Additional nonverbal symbols differ across the cultural backgrounds in their meaning. For instance, a thumbs-up symbol in the United States shows positive support, while in Australia and Russia, it signifies an offensive curse. Various gestures differ in meaning depending with the individual and the situation. A symbol of waving the hand can represent numerous things, considering for whom it is done and how it’s done. It may signify â€Å"no thank you,† â€Å"hello,† or â€Å"I’m royalty,† or â€Å"goodbye.† Winks express a range of messages, comprising of â€Å"Iâ€⠄¢m only kidding,† or â€Å"I’m attracted to you,† Or â€Å"We have a secret.† From a distance, an individual can comprehend the emotional idea of two individuals in conversation just through examining their facial expressions and body language. Folded arms and Furrowed brows signify a serious topic, perhaps a disagreement. Smiles, with arms open and heads lifted, imply a cheerful, friendly conversation (Durkheim, 2003, p. 41). Case study two                      Even though language is possibly the most apparent system of symbols that used in communication, numerous things we do express a symbolic meaning. For instance, of the way individuals dress and what it signifies to other individuals. The manner in which a person dress symbolically communicates to other people if that individual care about academics or if he or she is a fan of their school’s football group, or it might converse that the individual is a fan of punk music or has adopted an anarchist philosophy. In various urban settings, the symbolic meaning of individual’s clothes can signify gang connection. Other gang associates use these symbolic sartorial signs to identify allies or enemies. Anthropologists argues that, through their evolution course, individuals evolved a universal individual capacity to categorize experiences, as well as encoding and communicating them symbolically, like with language which is written. Due to the f act that symbolic systems were learned as well as being taught, they started developing independently of the biological evolution. Since this capacity for social learning and symbolic thinking is a human evolution product confuses older arguments regarding nurture versus nature. This view of culture shows that individuals who live away from each other begin develops distinct cultures. Basics of different cultures, but, can spread easily from one group of individuals to another. Belief that culture is coded symbolically and can, consequently, can be taught from one individual to another, meaning that cultures can change even if they are bounded. Culture is dynamic can be learned and taught, which makes it a rapid adaption form potentially to variations in the physical conditions. Anthropologists usually view culture both as supplement and product of the biological evolution; culture can be perceived as the core means of human version to the world which is natural (Middleton, 2002, p. 16). The above view of culture as symbolic system with the adaptive functions varying from one place to another, made the anthropologists to conceive of various cultures as described through different structures or patterns of continuing conventional meaning sets. These meanings took solid form in diversity of artifacts like rituals and myths, tools, well as the planning of villages and the design of housing. Anthropologists differentiate between symbolic culture and material culture, not only since each signifies distinct types of human activity, however also because they comprise of different forms of data that necessitate dissimilar methodologies to study. The culture sociology relates to culture since it is evident in the society: the ways of acting, the ways of thinking and the material objects that collectively shape the individual’s way of life. In regard to Max Weber, the symbols are very essential features of culture: individuals employ symbols to convey their spirituality as well as the spiritual side of actual events, and perfect interests are obtained from the symbols (Smith, 2001, p.21-24). In accordance with the sociologists, symbols composes one of the five essential basics of culture, the others being norms, values, language and beliefs. Symbolic anthropology perceives culture as independent system of meaning decoded through interpreting the key rituals and symbols (Werness, 2000, p.37). In conclusion, it is evident that culture is as set of symbolic classifications, referred to as a group of symbols which can prearranged into a paradigmatic set, frequently hierarchical. These systems of classifications show a world view or tribal order. Languages are constituted of the systems of classifications like grammars. Grammars classify number, person and time. Cultures consist of unconscious classifications which include relatives, plants, colors and animals. References Browne, R. B., Fishwick, M. W., & Browne, K. O. (1990). Dominant symbols in popular culture. Bowling Green, Ohio: Bowling Green State University Popular Press. Durkheim, E. (2003). Emile Durkheim sociologist of modernity. Malden, MA: Blackwell Pub..Hoijer, H. (1954). Language in culture: conference on the interrelations of language and other aspects of culture. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Middleton, J. (2002). Culture. Oxford, U.K.: Capstone Pub..Smith, P. (2001). Cultural theory: cn introduction. Malden, Mass.: Blackwell :. Werness, H. B. (2000). The Continuum encyclopedia of native art: worldview, symbolism, and culture in Africa, Oceania, and native North America. New York: Continuum. Source document

To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate

A lot of parents stress over the choice of deciding wither or not to vaccinate their children. The reason why deciding to vaccinate children is so difficult is due to the wide range of myths and side effects that are connected with vaccinations. Examples of myths spread to parents all over the United States is that the diseases don’t even exist anymore, rumors of vaccinations weakening a child’s immune system, and the risk of a child becoming autistic due to thimerisol in vaccinations causing autism. Side effects also scare parents out of getting their children vaccinated like brain damage, seizures, or allergic reactions. But then parents are pulled back to the thought of the possibility of their child or children catching a very serious life threatening disease. Any of these terrible things occurring in a child’s life makes it very easy for a parent to steer clear of the whole situation, and in ending result, not get their child vaccinated. When children aren’t vaccinated, they are left defenseless against diseases like hepatitis B, measles, mumps, chicken pox, polio, pertussis (whooping cough),   rubella, and more. All these diseases have the ability to easily kill a child within days, and if it weren’t for the vaccines protection over many children in the United States, the spread of these diseases would travel rapidly. There are a lot of people that do not recommend or get vaccinations for children because they think it is unnecessary to vaccinate for a disease that is no longer around. But let’s look at the big picture. If everyone stopped getting the vaccinations what would happen? Todd Neale from Medpage today inquires in San Diego 2008, â€Å"  Although the rate of two-dose immunization against measles was 95% in the area, a single case of measles from a 7-year-old child returning from overseas sparked an outbreak that exposed 839 people and sickened 11 other children†. If those 839 people weren’t protected with strong immune systems or vaccinations, there would have been a drastic dilemma. This is a perfect example of how fast a disease can get out of control. When parents think that its o. k. not to vaccinate because the diseases aren’t around anymore, they are really relying on other children who are vaccinated to keep their own children healthy, which is a gamble. In other words, According to the Children’s hospital of Philadelphia, if the immunizations rates drop only a little bit, outbreaks of diseases would sweep across the country rapidly. Another reason parents don’t want to vaccinate is because of the rumor of he vaccinations weakening children’s immune system. According to the Children’s hospital of Philadelphia â€Å"If 11 vaccines were given to infants at one time (which they aren’t), then about 0. 1 percent of the immune system would be used up, but because B cells and other lymphocytes are constantly replenished, a vaccine never really uses up a fraction of the immune system. For example, the immune system has th e ability to replenish about 2 billion lymphocytes each day. Also a study in Germany revealed that 496 vaccinated and unvaccinated children who received immunizations within the first three months of life had fewer infections with vaccine-related and unrelated pathogens than the non-vaccinated group. So here is the proof that vaccinations will not affect a child’s immune system. Then there is the big scare of vaccines containing the ingredient thimerisol causing autism in children. According to FDA, thimerosal is a mercury containing preservative found in vaccines that prevents bacterial and fungal growth which might occur with repeated puncture of multi dose vials. A lot of controversy has been held between doctors and parents because of prediction of autism being linked to thimerosal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Vaccine Safety Datalink, â€Å"Preliminary results from the VSD Thimerosal Screening Study published in 2003 did not find an association between thimerosal exposure and autism risk and recent ecological studies has not found a correlation between thimerosal content of vaccines and autism rates†. Numerous studies by many scientists have been done and prove that Thimerosal and autism are not related. Examples: Vaccine Education Center at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, â€Å"Multiple studies have shown that thimerosal in vaccines does not cause autism†. Another reason people do not get their children vaccinated is because of risks associated with getting the vaccinations. Scary examples of some of the side effects associated with vaccinations include: seizures, brain damage, high fevers and even death. Let’s take the vaccine for hepatitis B as a good example. The Children’s Hospital  of Philadelphia states, â€Å"About one of every 600,000 doses of hepatitis B vaccine is complicated by a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. The symptoms of anaphylaxis are hives, difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure. On the other hand, every year about 5,000 people die soon after being infected with hepatitis B virus. According to Car Accident Statistics from Edgar Snyder and Associates,† Each year, lmost 250,000 children are injured in car crashes, meaning nearly 700 kids are harmed every day. But this doesn’t stop people from putting their children in cars. The chicken pox vaccine is another example that side effects are very rare. According to Medic 8, â€Å"A macular or accine rash usually consisting of a few lesions at the injection site is reported in 3% of children and 1% of adolescents. Cases of allergic reactions to children are very low a nd should hold any parent back from getting children vaccinated. So in conclusion, the diseases that vaccines are made to treat are still around, and it is very easy for a disease to spread. Vaccines do not weaken a child’s immune system because of B cells and lymphocytes being constantly replenished by immune system. Numerous studies have been conducted proving that thimerisol does not cause autism. And The risk of a child having a adverse reaction to a vaccine is so low that its safer than driving down the street in a car. Protect your children from deadly diseases, get them vaccinated.

Unilever Group - analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Unilever Group - analysis - Essay Example Unilever Group - analysis Dove gives equal attention to the skin care needs of men and women alike. Unilever is a proponent of hygiene and well being and due to this it targets house wives in order to make them believe that their families are safe and healthy with Unilever products. It’s ice cream brands such Ben & Jerry’s and Wall’s are for all age groups (children, young and elderly). Knorr’s noodles are enjoyed children mostly. St. Ives is a beauty products line that has scrubs, lotions and proteins etc. and caters to women of 18 years plus. Lipton is consumed in the Asian region majorly and so people from the age of 20+ are catered here, as children are not very fond of tea. Unilever targets its customers through its principles of health, hygiene, personal care and nutrition. It focuses on hygiene and personal care specifically and for this the average housewife is targeted (Brand Source, 2009). One of the Unilever’s founding companies was Level Bros and in 1980’s William Hesketh came up with the idea for Sunlight Soap, which later proved to be his revolutionary product in Victorian England in terms of hygiene and cleanliness. The idea was to promote cleanliness, make women’s work easier, and promote a culture of health and personal attractiveness in order to convey the message that people who used Unilever products were living a better life. Around this time, the term Corporate Mission was not there but these ideas would have come under it had it been there. The fact only women are responsible for doing housework has become trite and obsolete. Unilever USA is a subsidiary of the multinational conglomerate, The Unilever Group (which has 10 companies operational as of now in the USA). Unilever USA is the largest company among the ten subsidiaries of the Unilever Group in USA and is primarily a consumer goods company distributing well known branded product s through grocery, drug, mass merchant and club channels. It has revenues worth $4 billion and if one of the top-notch fast moving consumer goods companies in the USA. However over the past ten years, profits for Unilever USA have not been very great. Due to an accounting change only, there was a profit last year (ConsultingCase, 2012). Unilever has a history that is three centuries old and remarkable events like economic boom, depression, world wars, changing consumer lifestyles and technological advancements have played an important role in it. This history is also marked by Unilever’s efforts to make life easier and enjoyable for its consumers by helping them save time (by reducing time spent on house work, nutritional concerns etc.). Besides that Unilever has also been able to balance its profits with care and social responsibility. During the 19th century, the founding companies of Unilever were the most charitable among others. They designed projects especially to impro ve their workers and their products were also designed in a manner such that they had social benefits. These products prioritized hygiene, personal care, and nutrition (was improved by adding vitamins to staple foods). Up till now, Unilever is a socially

Belgium's economic and monetary affairs Research Paper

Belgium's economic and monetary affairs - Research Paper Example Belgium consists of two major nationalists, the Flemish speaking north, and the French speaking Walloons in the south. The other subset arises from Brussels, the Bilingual capital, where the two major nationalists share official ranks. It is also a constitutional monarchy that experiences lots of tension and political instabilities, as the two major cultural groups in the separate regions, fail to reconcile their differences for the coalition governments to run effectively. Belgium, as a founder member of European Union has been an active contributor to pursue European integration, fully signed up to main measures of closer co-operation, comprising of Euro and Schengen convention (â€Å"Belgium and Luxembourg,† civitas.org.uk). Belgium hosts lots of General European institutions and meetings. The headquarters of EU, venue of EU council presidencies, EESC, and CoR institutions strongly linked to EU are all based in Brussels (â€Å"Belgium and the European,† belgium.be). With continued active participation in the EU, the Belgian’s lives, country policies and identity has been structured, due to common EU policies and objectives. In turn, Belgium has influenced European policymaking in economics and the finance sectors. With the country having the chance to hold seatings of major European Union institutions and meetings, the politicians within its region fully participate in decision making processes. Other nations could feel neglected as Belgium, United Kingdom, and Germany influence most of the decisions, but at the same time the power to object lies with the majority, which most of the countries do not show full commitment to. Even if Belgium is part of the small member states of the EU, it is well conversant with EU’s objectives, and takes advantage of been host to major EU functions, where personnel and policy experts actively participate, enhancing their argumentative power, which influences policy making that could favors