Feminist Perspective of the Film Twilight Essay

The film Twilight, a fantasy-romantic film has its director as Catherine Hardwicke who adapted it from Stephenie Meyer’s novel Twilight. The plot of the film revolves around the extra-ordinary relationship between a Vampire Edward and a young girl Bella Swan. The captivating conflict centers on the efforts of the family of Bella Swan and those of Edward Cullen to keep her away from the evil vampires. The film altogether highlights Hardwicke’s theatrical intellect and wit in bringing out scenes that explores serious aspects as well as the social constructions and themes the contemporary society still exhibits despite the gallant fight for equality and social enlightenment. The film raises serious flaws in portraying the women in a society that has spiritedly fought against the tenets of patriarchy by analyzing it from the feminist’s point of view (Chang 1). As the scenes in the film Twilight unfolds, the 17 years Bella Swan goes to live with Charlie, her father in small town, Forks after her mother elopes with another man. Exposed to new neighborhood and school, Bella has to make new friends where she is intrigued by Edward Cullen after he inexplicably stops a van that nearly run over her with his hand. Bella is intrigued when Cullen is adamant to explain how he saved her and is only against her befriending him. Bella later discovers Cullen is a vampire that only consumes blood from animals. Conflict in the film plot develops when other vampires know of Cullen and his family protectiveness over humans especially Bella who Edward is in love with. The antagonist, James schemes to hunt Bella where he lures her into a trap ultimately biting her. Lucky enough Edward and Cullen’s family rescues her, destroys James something that hurts Victoria his girlfriend, and the venom in Bella’s blood is sucked out by Edward something that prevents her from becoming a vampire. Victoria, James girlfriend secretly schemes her revenge for her lover as the film ends. Throughout the film Twilight, it is notable that the female characters especially Isabella â€Å"Bella† are developed by the director Hardwicke as naive, annoying, petulant, and above all there is that attitude anti-feminism. This is continuation of the social construction of women as naive and with immature tendencies traverses the ideals of modern society in this film thus being an embarrassment to women folk today. It is also annoying that Bella is prepared to just change from who she is to become a vampire just because she loves Edward. This is quite demeaning because it paints the bigger picture and a bad one for that matter that women would do anything for the men they love. It is petty that Bella cannot just like the person she is and continue being she is despite all the love she feels for Edward Cullen. This puts the issue of identity of women in question thus painting a negative picture that women want to identify not with their own kind but with who they love. Edward although loves Bella very much he is committed ensuring that Bella is pure no a vampire like himself. Critically analyzing the film in this perspective, Edward is a vampire who hates the activities other vampires involve in. The evil vampires feed on human flesh and blood, which Edward detests very much. He feeds on animal blood contrary to the likes of other vampires and together with his family protects humans. On the other hand, Bella is deeply moved by the kindness and the love of Edward that she freely wants to become a vampire. A vital question arises, is Bella guided by reason or her emotions? Is it necessary that she change into a vampire? Can she still exist in the form of human by her virtue and retain her relationship with Edward? This portrayal of women as people guided by emotions but not by reason is quite misleading and anti-feminist. Feminists from 1960s to today are fighting for the deconstruction of portrayal of women as simply people who need men to do everything for them; fight, provide, and defend them. Therefore, in the film Twilight, the portrayal of women is not is not in vogue with the contemporary feminist trends that advocates for women as independent people who can exist without the help of under the umbrella of men (Chang 1). It is contrary to popular feminists’ trend for women lives to be entirely controlled by men. The film depicts the character of Bella is a person dependent on men in her life. The life of Bella is essentially controlled by men and ultimately allows this to take place. The film depicts a patriarchal society that is against the marriage of older women to younger men and yet it encourages marriage between older men to teenage girls. Would the society depicted in the film would be comfortable if the relationship between Edward and Bella had been vice versa? Hardwicke perpetuates the ideals of the patriarchal society long forgotten. Edward even though is a vampire depicts more humane qualities by protecting Bella than of vampire and thus enhances the old societal traditions of older men marrying teenagers. Bella should not be in a relationship with a person who is worthy to be her great-grandfather. Edward is too old and there can never be anything good out of the marriage. Any marriage is definitely intended for company and procreation. It is beyond the contemporary societal values for Bella to be involved in a relationship which will culminate to marriage. It is also targeting and encouraging a society where the place of women denigrates them to stay at home as housewives and bear children on the denial that they cannot make decisions based on reason but guided by their own emotions (Jones 35). Bella is depicted as trying just to make a show of being annoyed when he overprotects her. On the other hand she behaves as a little girl who can barely help herself but only put herself in danger. Hardwicke portrays masculinity which dominates the film. Edward does not feel she is safe going to meet people because he is for one jealous, and has the power over her anyway and she feebly resists. Bella puts only feeble efforts of showing she is against his help and yet lets him to help her eventually because she loves him. Do women like to be innately protected as Bella exhibits? The entire relationship is symbolic where Bella has to cling on for protection. Not that I’m against the protection but it entirely paints a bigger picture that women require men for protection or else their survival is not guaranteed (Chang 1). According to Jones (63) the society today has high social consciousness and the modern woman is liberal and the film does not portray the ideal modern woman who is sophisticated and independent. The film in a way promotes conservative social ideologies, which are not well taken by the present society. The female characters although they play dominant role in the film they are presented as people with low self-esteem. The voice of reason forms the important aspects in the modern woman and emotions are not her weakens. The film however, depicts a thousand and one ways in which Edward manipulates and controls Bella emotionally and she blindly lets him have his way consequently enjoying his actions. It is ironical in the way Edward does not want Bella not to ride her car, guards her bedroom at night and does not want her to do anything all by herself. Instead of living her dreams, Bella gives up all his dreams for the man she loves. Further, the film encourages teenage motherhood in which the contemporary society is against the feminist simply because a teenager cannot make any independent decisions without being influenced. She completely changes her lifestyle; her friends, her body and moreover gives up humanity just for a man. Another female character is Victoria who as the film ends is possibly planning to avenge for the death of James because she loved him very much. There is not any reason beyond this scheme of revenge because even when she is successful in nothing will bring James back to life. In addition, the film explores on the theme of sexism revolving around fantasy, which is targeting the female audience. Chang (1) argues Bella’s obsession is Edward who is depicted as the fairest guy in the world. This film further permeates the stereotypes about women that they will fall for any guy who is cute without even digging about his background. And even if they do a research about the background, the physical looks will make them fall for them anyway. The film is prejudiced against women for it depicts them mistaking fantasy for reality and reliving in that state of fantasy and thus sexism, which is femininity indicating that women are weak and objects to be loved, which is a stereotype. Jacob is a realistic character who doubtlessly appeals to the viewers but they sympathize with him because he suffers from rejection by Bella who wants to be with supernatural Edward. This further seems to confirm the stereotype that women love fantasy rather than the reality. In conclusion, analyzing the film Twilight directed by Catherine Hardwicke from the perspective of feminists, she fails in correcting the stereotypes and prejudices depicted of women in a patriarchal society. The film further subordinates women in the society of men and indicates that they would love to live in life of fantasy instead of the realistic life. Catherine Hardwicke, a female director is criticized simply because she explores the feminine aspects in this movie negatively; instead of deconstructing the social constructs against the progress of the women folk in her film, she further perpetuates some of the stereotypes and prejudices against women in the contemporary society. Instead of promoting feminist concepts in this film and breaking down the constructions of the patriarchal society, Hardwicke ironically promotes anti-feminist concepts. Work cited Chang, Justin. Twilight. November 19, 2008. May 11, 2010. Jones, Amelia. The Feminism and visual culture reader. London: Routledge, 2003. Twilight. Dir. Catherine Hardwicke. Prod. Greg Mooradian, Mark Morgan and Wyck Godfrey. DVD. Summit Entertainment, 2008.

Ketone reduction

IntroductionKetone reduction is one of the fundamental reactions in organic synthesis and this results to the formation of the corresponding alcohol as the final product. In synthetic organic chemistry carbonyl reduction is an important process leading to a wide variety of reducing being realized. Several of these reducing agents can be used to reduce all carbonyl groups, but one class of compounds only react with hydride donors. Taking for example lithium aluminum hydride reduces in most occasion’s ketone, esters and aldehydes.Experiment 5B:The experiment was performed using the right procedures that was provided and the instructions followed to the latter and in this case sodiumborohydride was used as the reducing agent, the protocol followed came from a laboratory manual or primary literature. It is said in theory that the four hydrides in sodium borohydride are always in place to reduce a molecule of ketone, this suggests that one mole of sodium borohydride reduces four mo les of ketone. Sodium borohydride in this experiment was used to reduce 4-t-butylcyclohexanone which has a large sized t-butyl group making it to exist in an almost exclusive chair conformation one of its kind.Post-Lab assignment1. a)   The Lewis structure of a hydride ion is as shown;H- (hydride) Lewis structure and the (electron dot diagram) [H]+ or H+b)   This is because the carbonyl carbon has two delocalized electrons thus tends to   display high affinity for the four hydride ions (H-) off the Sodium borohydride which is highly neucleophilic2)  Ã‚   The mechanism involved the highly nucleophilic borohydride attacking at both the endo and the exo sides leading to the formation of both cis and trans isomers.4.   This was possible since the addition of dilute hydrochloric acid led to the formation of water molecule leading to neutralization of the excess reducing agent.5.   Percentage Yield = ratio of products to reactants multiplied by 100 percent6.  Ã‚   a) The mel ting point of the major product was rather low than the literature value melting point range.b)   This is so inorder to accommodate any experimental mistakes that might have occurred during the performance of the experiment also we can say that the presence and positioning of the t-butyl group contributed a great deal to the melting range of the product.7.  Ã‚   a)   There is absorbtion in IR at wave number 1710 cm-18.   The reaction forms two products since there is nucleophilic attack at both endo and exo sides of the main reactant 4-t-butylcyclohexanone, and the product structures are below,  Ã‚  t.-Bu  Ã‚  OH  Ã‚   cis-4-t-butylcyclohexanol      Or  OH   Ã‚  t-Bu   trans-4-butylcyclohexanol the main product.a) The Newman projection for the cis-isomer b) The Newman projection for the trans-isomerc)   Using the integrated values the ratio of cis/trans being the products can be calculated using the complex signals, one centered at 4.05 and the other near 3 .5 thus the areas under these complex signals are 0.85:3.66 or 1:4.3.References1.   University of West Florida, NMR Analysis of 4-t-Butylcyclohexanols

What is Psychopathy?

Psychopathy is a problem for society as a whole, seeing that it could easily lead individuals that are suffering from this personality disorder to violent and criminal acts. The bases of psychopathy are known to be biological, sociological, and psychological. Whereas amygdala dysfunction is thought to be responsible for psychopathy, an individual’s frustration with his or her low socioeconomic status may also lead him or her to commit acts of crime revealing psychopathic features in the process. Psychologists believe that low IQ may similarly be responsible for psychopathic behavior. Additionally, they have extensively studied personality traits, such as those on the Big Five personality dimensions, to understand psychopathic traits in particular. Apart from the above, this paper also discusses therapeutic interventions with respect to psychopathy. Introduction In children as well as adults, psychopathy is defined on the basis of three dimensions: (1) an â€Å"arrogant deceitful interpersonal style†¦including glibness or superficial charm, self-centeredness or a grandiose sense of self-worth, lying, conning, manipulation, and deceitfulness; (2) deficient affective experience†¦including low remorse, low guilt, a weak conscience, callousness, low empathy, shallow affect, and a failure to accept responsibility for actions (denials, excuses, etc. ; and (3) an impulsive or irresponsible behavioral style†¦including boredom, excitement-seeking, a lack of long-term goals, impulsiveness, failing to think before acting, and a parasitic lifestyle (debts, unsatisfactory work habits, etc. )† (Cooke & Michie, 2001). No wonder, psychopathy is rigorously investigated with reference to criminal behavior. Psychologists are also very interested in learning about the roots of psychopathy in children. These studies are based on the premise that it is impossible to try to solve a problem without a thorough understanding of its roots. Psychopathy in Literature Blair (2001) explains that the roots of psychopathy may very well lie in amygdala dysfunction. The amygdala is related to the emotional response, in particular, the flight or fight response to threats. With impairment in this essential area of the human brain, the individual is unable to make appropriate emotional responses to threats. The emotional dysfunction in the person suffering from psychopathy is enough to serve as evidence that the parts of the brain connected with emotions are impaired in the case of those suffering from psychopathy (Blair). Moreover, Blair connects the conduct disorder and antisocial personality disorder with psychopathy to describe that there are similarities between the problems. The author adds to our previous definition of psychopathy by stating that those that are suffering from this particular disorder reveal â€Å"emotional shallowness† in addition to antisocial behaviors that are often marked by aggression and taking of offence (Blair). Antisocial behavior is often related to the Intelligence Quotient as well as the socioeconomic status of the person that displays it. Thus, psychopathy may similarly be connected with the IQ and socioeconomic status of those that suffer from it. In particular, those who are less intelligent and who also suffer from lacks due to their present socioeconomic status, may express their emotional frustrations through antisocial behavior, thereby getting very close to the definition of psychopathy (Blair). Rutter (2005) argues that although antisocial behavior is not exactly the same as psychopathy, the importance of investigating the latter lies in the evidence that those that are classified as â€Å"psychopathic offenders† tend to begin their â€Å"criminal careers† at an early age. Besides, these individuals â€Å"are more likely to become persistent offenders than the criminals without psychopathy features† (Rutter). What is more, psychopathic offenders or criminals are often known to be violent and to resist therapeutic intervention. The author also mentions new instruments that have been developed to measure the traits of psychopathy in children as well as adults. These instruments include the â€Å"Antisocial Process Screening Device† (Rutter). Also according to Rutter, child psychiatrists and child psychologists have shown reluctance in diagnosing psychopathy in children and adolescents, based on the belief that the diagnosis might inevitably lead young individuals to bad outcomes in the days to come. On the other hand, it is thought that adults that are suffering from the personality disorder we understand as psychopathy, may have had the problem traits even in childhood. Hence, it is also believed to be easier to start therapeutic programs in childhood so as to help the young in avoiding bad outcomes in future (Rutter). Salekin & Frick (2005) state that young individuals with psychopathic characteristics may be suffering from a particular set of cognitive as well as affective deficits. Knowledge of the â€Å"specific causal pathway† of psychopathy in children and adolescents could prove to be consequential in the design of â€Å"individualized interventions† for such youths (Salekin & Frick). After all, the most important reason why psychologists would like to understand more about psychopathic traits in youths is that these traits help to â€Å"predict future antisocial, criminal, and violent behavior† (Salekin & Frick). Psychologists are also aware that children with psychopathic traits exhibit the â€Å"highest rates of conduct problems, self-reported delinquency, and police contacts† (Salekin & Frick). Salekin, Rogers, & Machin (2001) conducted a study on youths with psychopathic traits. This research was conducted through a survey that was sent out to more than five hundred clinical psychologists, asking them to describe psychopathic traits in youths; gender differences between youths with psychopathic traits; and also the kinds of interventions that psychologists had used with such youths. The results of the study revealed that children with psychopathic features tend to share these features with adults that are also suffering from psychopathy. The mean age of the youngster with psychopathic traits is a little over fourteen years. The average youth with psychopathic features has an 8th grade level education. Moreover, there are more boys than girls showing psychopathic traits. Although the boys with psychopathic characteristics are more aggressive, and often violent; girls with psychopathic features tend to be less aggressive. Such girls reveal their psychopathic traits through antisocial behavior as well as hostility (Salekin, Rogers, & Machin). The study further revealed the prevailing belief of clinical psychologists that it is quite difficult for them to treat psychopathy. Therapeutic interventions are also believed to work more effectively for youths as compared to adults. This is because the personality of children is often thought to be more fluid than the personality of adults. Hence, clinical psychologists reported that they had seen â€Å"moderate-to-marked gains† of psychotherapy in children and adolescents treated for psychopathy (Salekin, Rogers, & Machin). Girls in general were seen to benefit more from psychotherapy than boys. Clinical psychologists found a marked reduction in violence, delinquency, in addition to verbal aggression, even after one year of psychotherapeutic treatment for children and adolescents suffering from psychopathy. Even so, the psychologists reported that antisocial behaviors are sometimes hidden in the natures of the youths and â€Å"outside the purview of psychotherapists† (Salekin, Rogers, & Machin). Hence, this study called for further research to augment our understanding of psychotherapeutic treatment for youths with psychopathic features. Farrington (2005) points out that even though psychotherapeutic treatment for psychopathy should begin early, and should be extensive, there are various problems that make therapeutic intervention difficult. First, â€Å"psychopathy is extremely persistent throughout life,† and so, even though clinical psychologists have observed improvements in youths with psychopathic features after psychotherapy, the problem traits of such youths may not entirely go away (Farrington). Second, psychopathy is also believed to have a biological cause, i. e. amygdala dysfunction, and biological causes cannot be reversed through psychological interventions. Furthermore, psychopaths are manipulative individuals, and they are often able to lie to and deceive psychotherapists so as to become â€Å"treatment-resistant† (Farrington). Farrington also mentions the Big Five personality dimensions that psychologists have often used in an attempt to understand the problem traits of individuals suffering from psychopathy, before they can devise better therapeutic models to help them. The five personality dimensions are: â€Å"Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness† (Farrington). Out of these five dimensions, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism are most relevant to studies on psychopathy. The author describes how individuals with psychopathic characteristics are expected to fare on the Big Five personality dimensions: Agreeableness includes straightforwardness (with deceitfulness at the negative end), altruism (v. exploitativeness), modesty (v. arrogance), and tendermindedness (v. callousness). Conscientiousness includes dutifulness (with poor dependability at the negative end), achievement striving (v. aimlessness), self-discipline (v. hedonism), and deliberation (v. arelessness). Neuroticism includes impulsiveness and angry hostility, although it also includes self-consciousness (with glibness and shamelessness at the negative end) and vulnerability (with fearlessness at the negative end). Conclusion Indeed, with better understanding of the personality traits of individuals suffering from psychopathy – a problem with biological, sociolo gical, and psychological roots – psychologists are in a better position to help them. Yet, it is bad news for psychotherapists that psychopathy may have a biological cause that they would not be able to work their way around. Moreover, psychopaths are often able to escape treatment by conning and lying during psychotherapeutic interventions. Nevertheless, even the knowledge that psychopaths are able to do this is essential in devising new treatments for them. Our literature review has revealed the importance of understanding psychopathy especially in children and adolescents. Psychologists believe that early intervention is crucial in psychopathy, and youths that are suffering from this personality disorder should be treated extensively. This is because personalities are understood to be more fluid in youth. By helping children and adolescents to change their problem traits, psychologists may be able to save them from negative outcomes in the future. All the same, psychologists have reported that the problem traits of children and adolescents with psychopathic features may never entirely go away. Children and adolescents with psychopathic traits may easily turn out to be criminals in = future. Hence, it is even more important to understand the problem of psychopathy now before better treatments may be developed for the problem in question.

Rite of Passage from Childhood to Adulthood Assignment

Rite of Passage from Childhood to Adulthood - Assignment Example As the paper stresses  the Americans’ rite of passage from childhood to adulthood varies significantly from that of the Pygmies. Unlike the Americans, the Pygmies’ initiation was associated with children mimicking what adults do. The mimicking was one way of preparing the children for adult roles. After this, both boys and girls were taught about their respective roles in the society. Boys were taught how to hunt whereas girls were educated about herbs and edible fauna. Unlike the Americans, The Pygmies also circumcised their boys as a way of passage from childhood to adulthood. The last stage of transition from childhood to adulthood for the Pygmies is marriageThis study declares that the Pygmies rites of passage are very significant in life. For instance, the mimicking of adults enabled children many things pertaining adult life. The adult behaviors taught young people on how to observe societal norms. The Pygmies also regarded the teachings they taught different ge nders essential since they prepared boys and girls for their future roles in their families. The most respected rite of passage by the Pygmies is circumcision. The Pygmies believed the blood shed through circumcision enhanced blood-brotherhood. In addition to this, they believed that the circumcised men were fully prepared for the caring roles. According to Turnbull, â€Å"circumcised men are mutually obligated to help and care for each other for the rest of their lives.†

Learning & Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Learning & Development - Essay Example ave become increasingly varied, fluid and emergent as people make career decisions within a highly dynamic organizational, societal and global economic milieu’ Carter, Cook and Dorsey’s (2009, p. 12). As such, learning and development should be an integrative part in planning my career path to place me in the right track and to keep me always a valuable asset to my industry. In fact in the hospitality industry, hotels, themselves, aim to become learning organizations through constant coaching and self-development at all levels that one of the essential job descriptions of hotel employees is no other than for them to ensure their own learning and development; more than that, employees should ensure that what they learn is of high quality standards (Andrews 2009, p. 179). In short, employees are responsible for their own learning and development. They owe it first and foremost to their selves because today learning and development defines the future of employees in the or ganization; perhaps, this is true not only to employees but to organizations, themselves. Clearly so, learning and development is essential in defining one’s career path. Why this is so is the heart of this paper. To put matters in the right perspective, important terms, such as career, career path, career planning and development, and learning and development need to be defined. Career is viewed differently by many people. In fact according to Adams (1991, p. 3-5) since the 1960s defining this term has been a topic of many researches, yet until today, no single definition has been agreed upon. Nonetheless, Adams cited four basic definitions from which the term career can be understood. First, a career is viewed in relation to advancement. Meaning, a career is perceived as a sequence of upward or broadened movements in an employment’s hierarchical ladder during the time of one’s work life. Second, career is perceived in relation to a profession that allows promotions and advancements.

The competitive advantage of the Country Singapore using Porter's Essay

The competitive advantage of the Country Singapore using Porter's Competitive advantage and the Diamond factors - Essay Example We also find out in this study that, though the country has a natural small land area, the country capabilities and efficient and effective use of information technology has more than compensated for its present international position in the shipping and sea transportation industry. The country position and image has been further enhanced through electronic government that has transformed public services. This paper examined the competitive advantage of Singapore using Porters competitive advantage of nations. Porter tries to solve apparent puzzle of a country's competitive advantage, or why one country is more competitive than the other through the attributes of his competitive advantage of nations (Porter 1990).These constitute the essence of his notion of competitive advantage. Porter (1990) echoes an important question in which he provides a succinct answer. For example, "why does a nation achieve international success in a particular industry Porter argues that, the answer to this question lies in four broad attributes of a nation that shape the environments in which local firms compete and promote or impede the creation of competitive advantage." (1990:71). ... The first part of the paper examined Porter's competitive advantage of nation, the second part of the paper looks at this competitive advantage with respect to Singapore. The last part of the paper provides a brief finding conclusions and recommendations. 1.1 Porter's Competitive Advantage of Nation-Porter's Diamond Porter's essential task in his ground breaking tool was to explain why a nation would succeed in a particular industry and not in another. In the words of Porter (1990), "in global competition, firms from any nation can gain scale economies by selling worldwide" (Porter 1990:71). To the researcher, which nation's firms will do so Thus, to Porter, a range of new explanations for trade has been proposed. One is economies of scale which give the nation's firms that are able to capture them a cost advantage that allows them to export, but however this theory are fraud with gross weaknesses (Porter 1990). Porter in his ground breaking work of (1990) postulates that a nation's competitive advantage can be deduced from his four attributes of competitive advantage. These attributes include include (1) factor conditions, which he defines as: "The nation's position in factors of production, such as skilled labor or infrastructure, necessary to compete in a given industry." (Porter 1990). The second attribute in Porter's competitive advantage of Nations is the demand conditions. Porter (1990) refers to this as the nature of home demand for industry's product or service. The third attributes of Porter's competitive advantage of nations focuses on related and supporting industries, which according to Porter (1990) refers as: "The presence or

Double Jeopardy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Double Jeopardy - Research Paper Example Double jeopardy is regarded as an abuse of process because the same person is brought to the court based on the same facts. The rule of double jeopardy has received dramatic attention in the past few areas and critics are constantly calling for upgrading the rule because of its failure as it is causing injustice in the society. A classic reason often quoted for advocating the rule of double jeopardy and is often cited in academic literature and law cases was made by Black J in the case of Green v United States (US Supreme Court 187). The idea behind the statement which he believed is ingrained in the mind of American system of jurisprudence is that the State should not be allowed to make multiple attempts to allege a charge to convict a person for an offence, thereby subjecting him into incur unnecessary expenses, making him disgraceful in the society, and it causes the individual to suffer from embarrassment & mental turmoil. This compels him to live a life full of anxiety and insecurity, and also increases the chances of the individual to be declared guilty even though he might be innocent. Double jeopardy is recognized as a constitutional right in several countries. The fifth amendment of constitutions of United States of America states: â€Å"nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb† (AFA para. 3). ... Double jeopardy is recognized as a constitutional right in several countries. The fifth amendment of constitutions of United States of America states: â€Å"nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb† (AFA para. 3). In addition to that, it is also recognized in international laws. For instance, the Article 14 (7) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights states that â€Å"No one shall be liable to be tried or punished again for an offence for which he has already been finally convicted or acquitted in accordance with the law and penal procedure of each country† (ICCPR 14). In United Kingdom, this principle is famously known as ‘Connelly principle’ after the case of Connelly v Director of Public Prosecutions as it was regarded as an abuse of process. Lord Pearce in this case stated that a man should not be tried for a second offence which is clearly inconsistent on the facts with either a previous conviction or acquittal. The court should apply judicial discretion under such circumstances as without such a process, injustice will prevail (Johns 3). In Australia, the High Court’s decision regarding R v Carroll triggered a reform about the rules of double jeopardy (Johns 7). The case was concerned with a murder of an infant girl named Deidre Kennedy in 1973, for which Raymond Carroll was prosecuted for the case by the court. The girl was strangled in Queensland and her body was found with bruises on left thigh which were identified by medical experts as marks of human teeth. Carroll defended himself by swearing an oath and claiming that at the time of murder he was attending a course at RAAF base in South Australia. The defendant

Characteristics of a Problem Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Characteristics of a Problem - Essay Example Problems are always complex dealing with the interrelation of variables and not solely focused on one entity. And lastly, problems deals with time consideration as there is a certain time frame which they should be solved before they get worse. In our workplace, there has been a problem of motivation in the sales department. This problem presented itself in unmet sales quotas and the prevalent absenteeism among account executives. Inefficient motivation strategies were firs unclear as the sales manager was unaware of what is really happening with his sales team. Secondly, she knew that there is a certain goal which should be met—high profitability—yet was unsure whether to change compensation scheme in order to provide higher benefits to employees. This option might have motivated the sales team but will cause ballooning of costs. This shows the complexity which underlies the problem. Lastly, as the level of sales was monitored monthly, there is a pressure for the manager to act immediately to solve the situation. 2. How should a problem be investigated and identified? What are five steps to be considered while framing a problem? Provide us a problem which you could apply this process to. Be specific. (200 words) There are five steps which should be considered in solving problems: identify the problem; evaluate alternatives; select alternatives; implement the solution; and evaluate the results. This systematic way of framing a problem is commonly considered whether in business organizations, home or school. An application of this approach can be seen in a company which is contemplating in bringing its product into the global market instead of just selling them in the local market. Suppose that the problem is where to take the product considering the slowdown in stable economies like US and Europe. The company then evaluates available alternatives by looking at market

E market paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

E market paper - Essay Example This paper focuses on the online fashion shoppers as the target market, and www.net-a-porter.com and http://www.shopstyle.com as the key websites that can meet the needs of the chosen target market. ShopStyle Website has a better communication strategy while Net-A-Porter website has a better structure and appeal to viewers. The Net-A-Porter Group Limited considers itself as the world’s premier online luxury fashion retailer. The market segment in this case is the luxury online fashion shoppers. The Net-A-Porter Group Limited was launched in 2000 and has successfully established itself in market using its luxury brand. The company prides itself in its exceptional pricing and highly effective customer care that has enabled them to remain strong and favoured in the highly competitive fashion market. Their website www.net-a-porter.com is an award winning website presented in a unique way – as a fashion magazine. The luxury fashion company targets online savvy luxury customers, and offers them what they want – customized fashion clothes designed to meet the specific needs of each customer. It focuses on bringing out the best looks of customer. The Net-A-Porter Group Limited provides cutting-edge labels and delivers its products through the worldwide express delivery. Customers find clothes of their choice from the company’s online store, and order whatever they want. The company then delivers them to wherever the customer prefers it to be delivered. The online luxury fashion market segment is a large market because most people who demand luxury products use the internet, and prefer their products to be delivered to their convenient places. The visitors of the company’s website per month are about 2.5 million. That shows that about 83,000 people frequent the website daily. This indicates that the online luxury market

Liberation Theology Essay Example for Free

Liberation Theology Essay Liberation Theology is a notion born out of the painful colonial legacy of Latin America. Despite gaining evidence from their colonial masters, the Spanish, the new leaders behaved like the former colonial masters. This is the legacy left behind the the colonizers. The tactic of divide and conquer where they favored the local elites and marginalized the majority who are shunted to the lower strata of society, thereby creating a caste system of sorts that saw an unequal distribution of wealth made even worse by American intervention through â€Å"Dollar Diplomacy† and at the height of the Cold War, supported right-wing dictatorships which they saw as the â€Å"lesser evil† as opposed to local communist movements in the name of containment. Whether working with Marxist guerrilla movements or acting independently, Liberation Theology in name began around the 1950s though it had been around much longer. This concept combined Christian teachings with Marxist doctrine. As the name suggests, it is meant to â€Å"liberate† the poor, not only spiritually but materially from their plight (Petrella vii). Liberation Theologists put forward the idea of Jesus Christ as a â€Å"real† liberator who came to free the masses from their plight since is stated in the Bible that â€Å"Blessed are the lowly; they shall inherit the land. † (New American Bible, Matt. 5:5). It can be inferred here that there is more to Jesus in his role as the Savior or Messiah. Liberation Theologists encouraged many to read the Bible but at the same time â€Å"read between the lines† to see that Christ empowers or encourages believers to fight for social justice and give preference to the poor for they are the ones who have less in life. In a way, Christianity is empowering the masses since the elite-backed regimes will not. As a result, the Bible is therefore interpreted in a different way and clerics who subscribe to Liberation Theology end up siding with armed rebel groups in a rather awkward partnership that puts them in a very comprosing situation as far as their vocations are concerned. The rationale is that the governments, supported by the elites represent the hypocrites Christ rebuked in the Bible and His notion that the â€Å"kingdom of heaven is at hand† is seen in a Marxist context as the time to rise up and be truly free from poverty and oppression. However, Liberation Theology was not without its critics. The Catholic Church itself, led by the Pope (John Paul II), strongly ctiricized Liberation Theologists for hijacking Christian teachings to serve political purposes, especially Marxism. They criticize its rather ironic collusion with Marxism which opposes any form of religion, calling it an â€Å"opiate† of society in giving false hopes or a vehicle of deceit to keep the masses poor. The Church has not forgotten the â€Å"sins† of Marxism in persecuting religion and therefore regards it as â€Å"evil† and those who subscribe to Liberation Theology could be considered being on the wrong side of history, if not faith. The Bible again is used to disprove the notion of Liberation Theologists when Christ rebuked Peter by saying, â€Å"Get out of my sight, Satan! You are not judging by Gods standards but by mans† (Matt. 16:23). Furthermore, Christ also said to â€Å"Give to Caesar what is Caesars, but give to God what is Gods† (Matt. 22:21). It can be inferred here that the Church hierarchy does not approve of the supposed â€Å"well-meaningness† of clerics subscribing to this notion of Christ as a revolutionary for the Church as always upheld that Christ came to save mankind from the wages of sin which is death, not to lead a revolt and become a king in a temporal sense (Petrella 121-122). It also did not help with the fact that socialist regimes began collapsing in Eastern Europe following the collapse of the Berlin Wall which symbolized the separation between democratic and non-democratic regimes, culminating with the collapse of the Soviet Union, the â€Å"heart and soul† of Marxism. With the lose of their chief sponsor, Marxist regimes, even those in Latin America, fell and along with it the loss of credibility of Liberation Theology. In addition, the Church itself has adapted liberationist notions that are pro-poor and even created councils and commissions that address the needs of the margnialized peoples of the world, further emasculating Liberation Theologists and taking away what ever power or influence they have in stirring up the masses (Petrella 2, 121-122). At this point, one would wonder where would Liberation Theology go from here. According to Ivan Petrella, Liberation Theology must reinvest itself to ensure its continued relevance and not become an anachronism. He further stated that the present is the opportune time to begin, especially in this day and age of globalization. Much of the world is trying to be competitive to meet world-class standards but the flaw seen here is that this competitiveness would leave behind those who cannot keep up and will therefore be marginalized. However, he pointed out that the current approach they are taking to reinvent themselves are incorrect or improper and in his work, The Future of Liberation Theology, he showed the shortcomings of Liberation Theologists in their attempt to reinvent itself. One attempt to reinvent itself is to reassert its core ideas but at the same time distancing itself from Marxism where it is often associated, especially the growing inequality caused by globalization makes it even more relevant than ever (Petrella 3). One of the mistakes in this approach is that Liberation Theologists seem to have difficulty spearating itself from its Marxist ties as it still continues to see things through the prism of Marxism in their pursuit of social justice. It still maintains its antagonistic stance towards capitalism, thereby becoming more of a hindrance on the ideal essence of Liberation Theology which truly views it from a Christian perspective (Petrella 69). Furthermore, Liberation Theologists have not provided their own model society which is still tied to Marxist utopia – a classless society. In their attempt to reassert their ideas, Liberation Theologists fail to come up with an approptiate response to the cooption of their ideas by democratic institutions and even by the Church. It further contributed to the cooption by eliminating the dichotomy created by the â€Å"old school† Liberation Theologists but unfortunately failed to capitalize on it as it was seized by its perceived â€Å"enemies† especially in the part where the distinction between reform and revolution becomes blurred and its â€Å"enemies† realize that the ideas of Liberation Theology are â€Å"useful† to their purposes without worrying about revolution which is anathema to them and emphasizing the reform component (Petrella 122-123). What is proposed is that Liberation Theologists should reorient their way of thinking where they should stop regarding the concept of liberation as a theme but a guiding principle and must be politically neutral. This way, it can be employed by any political ideology that has social justice in its agenda and is not strictly limited to Marxism or socialism for that matter (Petrella 4). Petrella also encourages an open-minded appraoch for Liberation Theologists in order to remain relevant. He argued that democracy and especially capitalism, is not one-dimensional as they usually regard it to be but rather multi-dimensional. Capitalism in the United States is different from that of Germany and Japan and should not be generalized or viewed in absolute terms. Another point Petrella raised that supports Liberation Theologys continued relevance is that it can still transform society though not in a sweeping manner but in a methodical manner by changing the laws of society rather than calling for defiance or revolution, let alone activism (124). It can be surmised that what Petrella is suggesting is that Liberation Theology do away with revolution and even â€Å"civil disobedience† as the approach but rather work within the system. Liberation Theologists should find allies in mainstream politics whose ideology and platform are attuned to theirs and create an alliance with them. By doing this, they not only scored a moral victory but a political victory as well, something that has eluded them for decades of trying with revolutionary movements. Borrowing ideas from noted Liberation Theologist Leonardo Boff, Liberation Theology is all about mediation – to know and understand oppression and societys ills, reorienting it in a Biblical context without trying to intertwine it with Marxism and through this purview come up with appropriate measures to address these problems short of fomenting unrest and revolution. In conclusion, by looking at Petrellas proposed solution, Liberation Theology stands a chance of living up to its true billing. But as he warned, it must really distance itself from Marxism, the first challenge and really look at problems from Christian context free of any ideology. Rather, it political ideologies must be assimilated by it rather than the other way around and by doing do, become part of mainstream politics in the pursuit of real social justice as Christian teachings define it. Works Cited Petrella, Ivan. The Future of Liberation Theology. Hampsihre: Ashgate Publishing Limited, 2004.

Leadership influence and report

Leadership influence and report 1.1 Introduction As senior material manager in a public bus company called Metroline Travel. I supervise a team of 15 Material managers across London. These personnel are the logistical team and their core responsibilities are the supply, storage and procurement of parts to engineering. The logistical hierarchy is illustrated in figure 1. Figure 1 Metroline Organisational Structure (Engineering Department) 2.1 Stakeholder Analysis Stakeholder analysis is a useful technique used to identify the key people within the logistical function framework. These key personnel are very important to the organizational structure because they have tremendous power and influence which affects my embarkation on this project, which involves extending me in terms of leadership and change. According to Mendelows matrix these can be grouped into 4 categories in figure 2: Figure 2 Mendelows matrix in Metroline Travel logistical function High Low C- Keep Satisfied D- Key Players A- Minimal Effort B-Keep Informed Low HighPower Level of Interest A- Engineering administration clerks B- Operation, Suppliers C- Finance department, Material Support Managers D- Engineering managers, Head of Purchasing, Engineering Director, Head of Manning and Training 2.1.1 My experiences of Leadership My life has been a journey. In 2000 I was employed with Her Majestys Armed Forces. I served for a period of seven years with the logistics corps, which I was responsible for both the national and international supply operation of my unit. I was authorised to organise and manage the handling of dangerous and hazardous goods and advanced air and shipping freight. I then moved on to serve with the bomb disposal units within the United Kingdom. Serving in the army not only required flexibility, but also enabled me to adapt rapidly to difficult environments and handle confrontational situations. As a Non Commission Officer; leadership was very task oriented where ones degree of leadership style and authority was determined according to rank. This experience has taught me to place substantial effort and commitment into my actions and work by being a focal point for solving all logistical problems day or night. 2.1.2 My experiences of change There have been many changes within my life. Leaving the Armed Forces was the biggest life changing decision I have ever made. I felt very uncertain about my life direction and decision after having joined the army at 20 years old. However, I needed more from my life; I wanted to accomplish more in terms of going back to university to get a degree. Further, I could not really study within the armed forces because of work constraints and time. But I took initiative and I have completed 80% training towards obtaining my degree. I have also seen changes made to other people in terms of new work procedures being introduced in my current workplace and the resistance that can sometimes occur as a result of these changes. Through those experiences; I realise change can have positive and negative personal effects. It can also affect other colleagues motivation and the business organisational culture. 2.1.3 My experiences of leadership and change I have experience change within different working environments, change such as having to work on a Saturday for 2 weeks because of a deadline and the Change Facilitator taking the initiative by effectively communicating the reasons for the change and their actions. Although the individual was the head of the department and did not have to work on the Saturday, turning up to work which to me (a subordinate) demonstrated leadership and the ability to make the change flow smoothly. On the other hand, I have also experienced poorly structured change by instructions; such as to change working practices without any consultations coming from directors who have lost touch with their employees and working environment. This type of leadership infuriates me and other staff and the change is always met with high resistance. 2.1.4 The key issues from me and my workplace My company is very unionised and after reading a few chapters of the developing a productive inquiry; I have started noticing positive and negatives things about myself and my workplace. I found that I am a bit timid within meetings with senior managers, although I have very good ideas about solving problems, I do not speak up and I have no idea why, which creates a level of personal uncertainty. Also within my workplace I have started looking at other managers leadership style, the good and the bad. For me to grow and improve as a manager; I would like to incorporate the good points within my current style with the support of the other managers. Organisation boundaryFigure 3 The key issues within my workplace Material managers Trade Union Working conditions Honesty Employment contracts Organisational culture Senior management support Support and Improve performance Senior material manager Other managers and departments Support Good points Good communicator Creditable by my actions Approachable Able to get the job done without conflict Economic factors Global credit crunch Slow rate of economic growth Political and Economic factors Government sending Review cuts Factors in outside the system in the Marco environment 2.1.5 The Importance of Leadership and Change to Me I believe from my past experiences, I have an understanding of the structure of leadership and change. In addition to learn more about leadership and change will enable me to become a better manager. In my work context; it will help me to become more people- orientated with the tools I learn from this course. In my personal life; the course will add points to my degree will enable career development and progression illustrated in figure 4 and mind map. Figure 4 The Importance of Leadership and Change to Me Leadership Improve my self-esteem and confidence Change and leadership Support and personal development Change and leadership Improve communication skills Leadership Motivate my team Change and leadership Being decisive about choices Leadership Networking Change and leadership Understanding the uncertainty and fear within me Change and leadership Challenging myself to try new ideas Change and leadership Setting the example and leading the way ME The beginning of my Journey with B204 mind map- (to be continue) 2.1.6 Opportunities to explore my Evidence Base Initiatives (EBI) My first thoughts on opportunities to explore as a possible basis for my EBI, illustrated in figure 4 (Developing Productive Inquiry P. 27) Inquiry Timeline Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Stores reorganisation 6 months Current organisational change program Will not be completed by end of course To improve performance and learning while practicing from tools and theories from B204 To choose a mentor Lack of support from other managers Researching universities to study my MBA 1 year My personal goal No growth over that period To use reflecting and research tools to make a choice Long timeframe to complete Searching for a new job in China 1 year My personal and situational goal High unemployment within China To learn a new culture Risk and uncertainty created by my decision to move Figure 4 my cycle of inquiry Action Stores reorganisation Researching universities to study my MBA Searching for a new job in China Series of consequences Evidence and Evaluation Gathering Information And Reflection I am currently looking at the best possible inquiry to focus on for my EBI, 2 are personal goals which are very important in my development and aspiration and 1 is work related which can improve my performance with support from my peers illustrated in figure 5 and 6 (Developing Productive Inquiry P. 16) Figure 5 possible inquiries to focus my EBI Searching for a new job in China I would like to life and work in China, its a very substantial decision. But I have the complete autonomy to make this decision. However this will change the way I interact with my friends and family, so I will seek advice from them Stores reorganisation Need support C- Finance department, Material Support Managers D- Engineering managers, Head of Purchasing, Engineering Director, Head of Manning and Training Researching universities to study my MBA I have the complete autonomy to make this decision. But I will need support from friends and family Figure 6 possible inquiries to focus my EBI Intrapreneurial Searching for a new job in China A very important project that will really stretches me, but this is very risky. Scaling Up Researching universities to study my MBA A significant project to undertake in terms of research and time Broadening Stores reorganisation Outside of current job description with this store project which I am trying out new skills 2.1.7 My questions about leadership and change I have an initial answer for these questions see appendix. However by the end of this course; I would like to answer these questions from my new learning reflections illustrated in figure 7 . 1. What makes a good leader? 2. What does a good leader do? 3. Is management the same as leadership? 4. Can I be a good manager or a good leader? 5. How do I know I am a good leader? 6. Can a good leader make good changes? 7. Is influence the same as power? 8. How can I improve my leadership skills and make positive things happen? Figure 7 my questions within the leadership and change context Leadership Change 1 2 3 4 7 5 6 Evidence Base Initiatives 8 3.1 Conclusion I started the introduction with a reflection from my past experiences in the army. I also highlighted features from my present employment. Both past and present jobs have a board understanding of various leadership styles and the change context. I have some leadership strengths. However, I still feel a very high level of uncertainty and fear of not being able to apply some of the tools and skills obtained from this course into my working environment. I hope I will have support of my work colleagues, other students, family and my tutor in order to improve personally and professionally as a leader. 1170 words 4.1 References Developing Productive Inquiry B204 Making it happen! Leadership, influence and change by Caroline Ramsey 2010 The Open University Walton Hall, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA