Medieval Manuscripts And Modern Media

The history of written literature is long and fascinating; in Medieval times, manuscripts were made in a laborious and expensive process of using animal skins for pages, feather quills for pens and colored inks to make exquisite bibles and other religious texts. The literary culture of medieval times was very different than today; since books were rare and literacy was low, texts were passed on orally through reading or memory (Mary Swan, 2003). Manuscripts were enormously expensive and the manuscript writers were accomplished artists and mostly monks who composed their work in the cloisters. A typical medieval manuscript began its life as a stretched and treated animal skin (parchment). Next, an outline was sketched then penned using a feather quill of the highest quality. The ink was made of metal gall (usually iron), or oxide, which was a mixture of tannic acids with coppers and thickened with gum Arabic. The main ingredient was oak apple, derived from the leaves and twigs of an oak tree (Diane Victoria Horn, 1997). This mixture of ink containing acids actually etched the parchment and the pigments of ink filled in the etchings and could be reapplied over time to keep the manuscript in pristine condition. Next, gold leaf was applied and burnished, followed by the copying of the text by scribes. The last to be added were the decorations and illustrations, which were elaborate. Finally, the book was bound, the parchments sewn by hand and covered with wood such as ash or beech or oak. The making of a manuscript could take anywhere between days (in the case of a professional scribe paid by the job) or years (in the case of monks, who had other obligations and penned books when duties were done). Because of the amount of time and care involved to make a manuscript, not to mention the employment of highly skilled artisans and scribes, manuscripts were prohibitively expensive to buy and were largely confined to church altars. Bibles were the most copied manuscripts, and eventually churches took a vested interest in teaching nobles and their children to read, using these manuscripts. The manuscripts bore no date of completion, nor the names of the men who made them (Horn). In medieval manuscript culture, originality of text was not the aim of the scribes as it is today with contemporary authors. The scribes simply made copies, embellishing them with the decorations and script of their culture and time (Swan). Unlike today, collections of books were unheard of in terms of the general populace. The churches protected the manuscripts, even as they are today, in museums, cathedrals and the Vatican. These priceless treasures bear the skill and devotion of craft and skill by those who made them. Looking at an original manuscript, one is awed by the care and level of expertise evident in the pages of elaborate decorations. We will now move forward in time to early mass production of books, which began in the 16th century when the codex replaced the roll and book printing and binding was transferred from churches and monasteries to universities and later commercial publishers (David Fernando, 2002). Where in medieval times manuscript bindings were lavishly decorated with ivory, precious gems and gold, subsequent books were leather-bound and decorated with stamp embossing and gold leaf. As book production increased, the use of cloth replaced that of parchment, and paper later replaced cloth. In modern times, bookbinding reflects the art and architecture of the time; books are still hand-bound and very expensive, requiring these editions to be safely stored to prevent damage. Many hand-made books are used as journals, with hand-bound blank pages contained within leather or decorated wood covers. In moving to the 21st century, we now find books readily available at a low cost. The current culture is attracted to books by author and genre, and a book begins as a decision by a publisher to print it. The use of digital technology to reproduce books gives them a rapid distribution and the artwork used is wide and varied depending upon the publisher’s decisions. An original manuscript is put through the process of editing and finishing. Stored electronically and ready to be printed, in a method called offset printing. Today’s books require a certain amount of care and proofreading before going to print, and in stark contrast to manuscripts of old, texts are now fiercely protected under copyright laws and originality is imperative to sales. With the advent of digital texts, e-books, and paperback copies, books are largely taken for granted and handled carelessly without regard to craftsmanship. What was once revered as forbidden territory to be handled lovingly and carefully is now so much a part of everyday life that books are given away, sold to second-hand bookstores, discarded easily or donated to libraries and schools. As with many modern items, books have made the transition from belonging to the few to the many, and what was once reserved for serious study is now used for everything from learning to entertainment. References Ferdinando, David, â€Å"Book Binding Trade.† Ferdinando Family History Site. December 2002, 25 November 2005 http://www.ferdinando.org.uk/book_binding.htm#manuf%20today Horn, Diane Victoria. â€Å"Leaves Of Gold: How Medieval Manuscripts Were Made.† 2000 – 2002. Philadelphia Museum Of Art. 26 November 2005 Swan, Mary. University of Leeds. â€Å"Medieval Manuscript Culture.† The Literary Encyclopedia.   4 Sep. 2003. The Literary Dictionary Company.   27 November 2005. http://www.litencyc.com/php/stopics.php?rec=true&UID=1324      

Crystal Jelly Fish

Crystal jellyfish The Crystal jelly fish is a very unique marine animal. Known as the crystal jellyfish its scientific name is well known to be the Aquarium Victoria. The Aquaria Victoria is a saucer shaped Hydromedusa with a well developed velum, its size ranges within five to twelve centimeters in diameter. It has eighty or more narrow unbranched radial canals witch can extend to the margin of the bell. All tentacles extend from the margin of the bell, making the slender gonads run along most of the length of the canals.Placed into a single row the tentacles are surrounded to the all around shape of the bell. The Aquaria Victoria is placed in pelagic waters in the Pacific Ocean from Vancouver, British Columbia, and Central California. There living requirements intake open waters and require temperatures between forty degrease Fahrenheit . Many Aquaria Victoria can be found swimming or floating along the shores. The population of the Aquaria Victoria is said to be unknown, because o f there four to six month life span it decreases’ the chances of finding the information.The Aquaria Victoria is budded off into hydroid colonies in the late spring. The Medusa is the first stage of its vast development. When approximately reaching three centimeters it can begin producing gametes of reproduction. The Spermatozoa and egg mature daily in the medusa. When provided much food they are spawned into the water column, settled off to fertilize they are then eventually settling out for a new hydro id colony.When reaching its growth of development to eat it intakes Crustacean, Zoo plankton core pods and crab zoeals. The natural Predators’ of the Aquaria Victoria are Voracious protozoan known as the lion mane jelly. When approached by one or more of there predators they tend to glow only to send out threats to protect themselves. The Aquaria Victoria is capable of its glow due to the (GFP) Green fluorescent protein it produces. The Aquaria Victoria only glows arou nd the margin of the umbrella.The Green Fluorescent protein is a protein that is composed of two hundred and thirty-eight amino acid that exhibits bright green fluorescence when exposed to light in the blue to ultraviolet range. The Green fluorescent proteins function is to become the Energy Transfer acceptor. The Aquaria Victoria flashes the blue light with a quick release of (Ca2+) witch interacts with photo protein acquiring. While it interacts, it is only brought on or let on for a short amount of time. The Aquaria Victoria is not known for harmful relations, it is known to be something unique just as any other marine animal.

Cannery Row by John Steinbeck Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Cannery Row by John Steinbeck - Essay Example The story is about five characters living together along the street, during one of the hardest times in history; they are forced to battle out their financial and economical woes due to the depression and try to, through different plots, live together and survive in their own ways. In this way, the story has been broadly described as a tide pool because the characters are like a number of different kinds of fish living together in an aquarium. John Steinbeck writes, â€Å"Cannery Row in Monterey in California is a poem, a stink, a grating noise, a quality of light, a tone, a habit, a nostalgia, a dream. Cannery Row is the gathered and scattered, tin and iron and rust and splintered wood, chipped pavement and weedy lots and junk heaps, sardine canneries of corrugated iron, honky tonks, restaurants and whore houses, and little crowded groceries, and laboratories and flophouses.† (Steinbeck, John) The story is beautiful, and both tragic and mysterious and the way it has been portrayed. It is easy for a reader to look at the messed up lives of the people in the story and feel a sense of humour at the same time while trying to connect with them as fish belonging to a certain wing of a tide pool or an aquarium. The main attempt of this story, according to the author, has been to capture the essence of the Cannery district in Monterey Row in the city of California. The main plot revolves around how Mack and his boys try and get hold of a rundown fishmeal shack and try and convert it into a habitual place to live in. They have feelings for their friends and family and thus want to throw a party for Doc, their friend and make him feel better. The reference of a tide pool has been provided as the story takes a slight turn in the first few chapters and the party leads to a mess in the Doc’s house. This causes a certain amount of trouble and thus leads to ill will and bad luck falling on all the people

Explain monohybrid inheritance including co-dominance Assignment

Explain monohybrid inheritance including co-dominance - Assignment Example Because plant and animal chromosomes exist in matching pairs in each cell’s nucleus, there will often be two genes for a particular characteristic in a cell. Where the same allele appears twice, then the organism is referred to as homozygous for this particular characteristic. However, in cases where one chromosome has one allele contrasting from the allele in the other chromosome, then the organism is referred to as heterozygous for that particular characteristic. In heterozygous organisms, the organism’s (phenotype) appearance may be determined by a single allele and not the other allele. This allele that determines this particular phenotype is referred to as dominantly expressed allele, however, the expression of the other allele is said to be recessive (Campbell, 2006). In general foundations, monohybrid cross are applied in determining F2 generation from homozygous pair of grandparents (one grandparent recessive, the other dominant). This leads to an heterozygous F1 generation. However, crossing two parents who are heterozygous from F1 generation results into F2 generation producing 75% chance for the dominant phenotype appearance, from which two thirds are particularly heterozygous, and 25% chance for recessive phenotype appearance. This form of cross was initially used by Gregor Mendel who did an experiment on two plants and obtained a variety of hybrid; he discovered the possible changes in the allele phenotypes (Campbell, 2006). On the other hand, co-dominance is when the genes (alleles) are only expressed in an individual. Blood groups are a good example. Blood groups B and A are totally dominant to blood group O, but they are co-dominant to each other. In co-dominance, a single gene entails more than just one allele. Therefore a heterozygous individual for twp co-dominant alleles expresses the phenotypes that are associated with both alleles. That is to say, a situation where two distinct alleles for a particular gene

Role of Brand Elements in Developing Brand Equity Essay

Role of Brand Elements in Developing Brand Equity - Essay Example It enhances customer loyalty towards a particular product or service. It helps a product or service to distinguish itself from other products or services. Brands have different attributes which help them to cement their place in the minds of consumers. According to Kathiravana, et al., (2010) â€Å"Brand attributes consist of ‘bits’ of information that are linked to a brand name in consumer memory and that, when combined with the brand name, make up a brand’s image†( p.21) â€Å"Brand Equity is the value and strength of the Brand that decides its worth. It can also be defined as the differential impact of brand knowledge on consumer’s response to the Brand Marketing† (Brand Equity - Meaning and Measuring Brand Equity, 2013). It is the value that a consumer gives to a particular brand. For example, iPhone 5, Nokia Lumia and Samsung Galaxy S3 are some of the leading smartphones available in the market at present. Apple Inc. is the second largest company in the world in terms of market capitalization and they are the most valuable technology company in the world at present. Samsung, on the other hand, is one of the rapidly emerging consumer electronics company in the world and its products are well accepted in the market. Nokia was the leader in the mobile phone manufacturing industry until recent times. All these factors or brand elements will influence the consumers when they go for the purchasing of a smartphone. This paper analyses the r ole of brand elements in developing brand equity. Some of the major elements of brand equity are; changing market share, profit margins, consumer recognition of logos and other visual elements, brand language associations made by consumers, consumers perceptions of quality and other relevant brand values (Wilson C. 2008).  

Asias Slowdown and British Consumers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Asias Slowdown and British Consumers - Essay Example Table 1 below shows China’s trade balance for the gap difference of ten years; 2001-2011 (Techau 2014) Obviously, for the strategy to work, the lifestyle for people in Asia has to increase in quality prompting them to adapt to the economic changes; however, the current position of states such as China and Hong Kong makes it hard for this to happen, as it requires them to fail in some of the leading ventures (Knight 2013). Largely, if Asia experienced bankruptcy, especially in countries such as China, it is a prediction that the whole world would feel the pinch, but some continents such as Europe would experience a blow. The idea that Asia has the ability to reduce the pace of development without affecting trade partners, foreign investors or even local companies is more of a fantasy because the recession is uncontrollable, as proved by past studies. The best tactic would be for China to initiate a long-term strategy that will prepare the possible victims as they look for other ways out of the situation; however, this would also require countries in Asia to liaise with the international policymakers. China seems to have a good idea, and one would think that this is going to be easy for them especially with the current economic status, but after evaluating the forecasts of the target growth rate with the current one, it requires more efforts (Pilkington 2014). Essentially, China aims at reducing its growth to slightly below 8%.

Business Law Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Business Law - Research Paper Example As a function of this, the following analysis will seek to utilize a systemic approach to business law while at the same time briefly discussing the history of how it came to be and the ways in which it pervades the current economic system. Earliest business law dates back to the times of the first civilized societies that sought to place restraints on the manner in which goods could be traded within their societies. As the complexity of trade and commerce grew, so too did the constraints of oversight with relation to business. The British Empire enacted some of the highest levels of business law that had been seen previous to its existence. However, the greatest explosion of business law took place within the post industrial period. As a result of the mechanization of production and the rapidly increased rates in which consumer products were integrated within the market, a whole new level of legal constraints were necessitated (Hasnas, 2007). Due to the unethical behavior in which m any actors sought to integrate these goods within the markets, it was determined, just as it is within the current time, that the best means to protect the end consumer and guarantee that a further level of respect for these bounds might be entertained. However, before extolling the virtues of these constraints to a greater degree than is deserved, it should be understood and appreciated by the reader that these constraints cannot and should not be seen as the be all and end all of legal protection from the excess and greed that the business environment might seek to engage. Recent events such as the ponzi scheme of Bernie Madoff, the corruption of Enron, and the ways in which Lehman Brothers and a litany of other financial institution sought to cook the books with regards to the total level so debt they carried and the resiliency of their institutions should underscore the fact that oftentimes extant legal constraints upon business are not sufficient in order to curtail the greed a nd unethical nature that they necessarily exhibit. As a function of this, law and its growth and development and integration within the business environment is something that must continue to grow and evolve as the business environment itself also grows and evolves (Blodgett, 2011). Moreover, the reader should not understand business law to be the remediation of all unethical and immoral behavior due to the fact that law always acts as deterrent and lags behind the common practices that necessitate its legislation in the first place. Finally, although business law is extraordinarily important within the current environment, it cannot be stressed enough that its importance lies not with regards to the level of penalties that exist for disregard for these laws but with relation to the extent to which the deterrence that they reflect can seek to diminish the behavior that they seek to punish. This level of importance helps to underscore the fact that law and its implementation with reg ards to the business field exists as a means to integrate a better level of consumer representation and protection than would otherwise exist. However, protection of consumer interests is not the only reason in which business law exists. For instance, one of the largest segments of applied business law is with relation to

Probable reasons of why racists mitigate their views whenever possible Essay

Probable reasons of why racists mitigate their views whenever possible - Essay Example It is very peculiar to consider racism is an ideology where humans are separated into various groups in the belief that some people are superior because they belong to a particular ethnic or national group. It could be summarized that racism is the result of having negative judgments, beliefs, and feelings towards certain identifiable groups. But there are multiple folds to the idea of racism and though an act of violence against a black youth by few white neo-Nazi and the killing of a Christian priest by some religious fundamentalists look very different from each other but to its core they are all the same and inseparable. It is not surprising that there is a prevalence of racism; however, it is not so common that a person admits to being a racist. (Black, 127) The reason is that most people with racist views don't want others to label them as racist, so they mitigate their views whenever possible. In a general sense, racism is fuelled by different aspects like low education, unfavorable economic condition, social structure that inclined towards a specific religion or cult and most important of all- ill fated political motivation. This are few reasons why the well educated, financially well off people tend to be secular in nature though there are exceptions and sometimes with rapid political campaigns (like the Nazi movement in Germany during 1930's and 1940's by Adolph Hitler) these people start believing in a ideology that is basically racist in nature. Most people with racist views don't want others to label them as racist, so they mitigate their views whenever possible as this racism (like Nazism) comes in a package of camouflaged theoretic philosophy. Most people under the banner of democracy tend to believe that all human beings are equal and they should be treated equally. So they disregard themselves as raciest and seek asylum under some make believe theories. If one o f such example comes in the shape of Nazism the other side of the same story tells us the existence of such interesting phrases like 'white man's burden". (Atherton, 15) This phrase developed during the colonial era at the 19th and 20th century and this phrase is just a make believe theory so as to soften the harsh reality of racist manners those indicated the rise and sustainability of the 19th and 20th century imperialism. This phrase, 'white man's burden', is a very interesting clue to the statement that 'why racists mitigate their views whenever possible'. If we look closely enough, we would find that during the 19th and the early part of 20th century it was the times of building, developing and sustaining a huge empire, later known as colonies, by the major players of the European politics. It should also be noted that this period, the 19th and the early part of 20th century, was also the fallout period of the essence of industrial revolution. Industrial revolution freed the entrepreneurs from the usual bondage of traditional economy and for the general it was the time for a new social bondage free from the earlier pseudo- feudal economic system. But all these developments also brought in new learning and new ideologies where ideas of human rights occupied a major role. In this context and social structure it would have been very hard to digest the ideals of imperial expansions through the method of brutal strength. This hard pill of 'colonialism with brutality' needed some spooning with

Biology 4(plant and society)b Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Biology 4(plant and society)b - Essay Example It is a plant which is used also for medicinal purposes as analgestic narcotic for the treatment of lower to relentless pain (Papaver Somniferum, n.d.). The cultivation of opium poppy was first initiated in the south-east region of Italian Peninsula, for past 2500 years, according to the archaeological evidences which also emanate from the Neolithic and Bronze Age (Merlin, 2003). It can be stated that opium poppy is not extensively cultivated in various regions around the globe. It is a domestic plant and has been cultivated mostly in areas of Europe, Australia, Japan North and South America and Northeast Africa among others. Moreover, the distribution process in the current status can be observed on the basis of the World Drug Report presented in 2010, which states that Europe holds the highest percent of consumption rate of opium which is around 9% as of 2008 (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2010). The opium plants are used as medicinal herbs as well as multipurpose plant s which include Cannabis, and are required for production of fibre. It is also used for cult (Merlin, 2003). In terms of the psychoactive principle of the opium plants, it can be observed that there is a strong relation amid human beings as well as the psychoactive plants as these plants are considered for offering the ceremonial issues. People are very much conscious regarding religious experiences. Nevertheless, according to a few of the classical authors, human beings use these plants as a drug. Moreover, it is also considered as a plant which was originated in the Neolithic Age and is offered to the ancestors or gods by human beings for establishing direct communication. The physiological effects comprise relaxation, reduction in alertness, anxiety relief and pain, which depends on the chemical nature of the substance. Overdosing of opium could lead to coma, stupor as well as death (Opiumaddiction.Com, 2012). In this essay, the hypothesis presented by Merlin i.e. â€Å"humans h ave a very ancient tradition involving the use of mind-altering experiences to produce profound, more or less spiritual and cultural understanding† will be argued for or against based on a plant i.e. opium poppy. Arguments For or Against the Hypothesis In the context of mind-altering organisms, the relation between the plant and human beings comes from the very ancient period. In those days, it was used in the ceremonial offerings and was extensively related to the spiritual world. Moreover, it was used as an organism of offering to the ancestors as well as god in the ceremonial offerings. In the modern day context, it is used in medicinal uses as well as applications in the secular aspects. It is also used in making capsules for curing certain diseases from various herbal plants. In non-industrial societies, these products or herbs are used to a great extent. It can be evidently observed that these plants were traditionally used by the people across diverse cultural societies for religious offerings. According to the survey conducted by Merlin, it can be stated that out of 488 societies, 437 were culturally involved in the usage of these plants in various industrial societies. It can be argued with reference to the evidences presented by several authors that consciousness altering plants such as opium poppy rendered the inspiration with regard to ancient

Multicultural Education by Keith Wilson Essay Example for Free

Multicultural Education by Keith Wilson Essay Multicultural education relates to education and instruction designed for the cultures of several different races in an educational system. This approach to teaching and learning is based upon consensus building, respect, and fostering cultural pluralism within racial societies. Multicultural education acknowledges and incorporates positive racial idiosyncrasies into classroom atmospheres. Pros of Multicultural Education A significant demographic transformation is on the horizon for the United States of America. Bennett (1995) estimates that by the year 2000, over 30 percent of our school age population will be children of color (p. 18). Additionally, research has indicated that ethnic minority students are disproportionately poor, dropping out of school, being suspended or expelled, and achieving far below their potential relative to the ethnic majority (Bennett, 1995). Consequently, teachers must prepare themselves and their children for the ever changing challenge of interacting and communicating with diverse races. Reduction of fear, ignorance, and personal detachment are possible benefits to a Multicultural education. The following excerpts are taken from Paul Gorski (1995), a University of Virginia Doctoral student during a case study interview: The idea of political correctness with the black race astounds me. I found it extremely interesting that some blacks in our class prefer to be called African American. In all of my classes I have felt like I was stepping on egg shells as to not offend the blacks in my class. I am honestly glad it is not that big of an issue to my fellow classmatesit promotes a more comfortable, genuine environment for me to be totally honest and carefree. Initially, the student interviewed in the case study reflected an attitude that would probably not facilitate consensus building, respect for other cultures, or fostering of cultural pluralism within different racial communities and in the classroom. However, with integrated curriculum, social activities, administrative support, and staff training, fear, ignorance, and personal detachment may be notably reduced in both students and teachers. Benefits to multicultural education can help to eliminate the crux of stereotyping, prejudice, racism, and bigotry (Fear, Ignorance, dis-ownership). Case study analyzed: 1. fear: I have felt like I was stepping on egg shells as to not offend blacks in my classes 2. ignorance: I found it extremely interesting that some blacks in our class prefer to be called African American. 3. dis-ownership: I am honestly glad it is not that big of an issue to my fellow classmates. The writer agrees with Hilliard and Pine (1990), if Americans are to embrace diversity, the conscious and unconscious expressions of racism (sexism) within our society must be identified and done away with (p. ). Multicultural education is the potential catalyst to bring all races together in harmony. Cons of Multicultural Education According to some views, if one wants to alienate and further fragment the communication and rapport between ethnic groups, implement multicultural education. As stated by Bennett (1995), to dwell on cultural differences is to foster negative prejudices and stereotypes, and that is human nature to view those who are different as inferior (p. 29). Thus, multicultural education will enhance feelings of being atypical. Schools in America may see multicultural education as a way to color blind their students to differences. Administrators may view the color blind approach as a gate keeper that assures equal treatment and justice for all students and as a way to facilitate compatibility and sameness of all cultures. A common statement from this line of thinking is, we are more alike than different. We should focus on the similarities and not the differences to achieve greater equanimity among the races. Ethnicity is breaking up many nations. If one looks at the former Soviet Union, India, Yugoslavia, and Ethiopia, all countries are in some type of crisis. Closer to home, one observes the divisiveness of the Rodney King and O. J. Simpson trials in our country, we can see how focusing on race and multiculturalism may lead to a further divisiveness between the races in America. Over time, multicultural education may have unplanned for and undesired consequences. For example, multicultural education rejects the historic American goals of assimilation and integration of ethnic cultures into the majority culture. Hence, the perception may result that America is a country of distinct ethnic groups, as opposed to a more traditional view of the country that involves individuals making decisions for the good of the order (Schlesinger, 1991). Multicultural education may increase the resentment encountered by students who feel that changes in school traditions, curriculum, and academic standards are not necessary to get along and respect students from ethnic minorities. Since many institutions resist change of any kind, passive resistance on the part of the administration may simulate acceptance of the tenants of Multicultural education. Of course, excepting the tenants of multicultural education should be avoided with enthusiasm and optimism. What would real Multicultural Education look like? The writer submits that multicultural education must have, as its crux, the below defining characteristics to achieve its purposes for students, teachers, parents, and administrators of the school system: a) a learning environment that supports positive interracial contact; b) a multicultural curriculum; c) positive teacher expectations; d) administrative support; and, e) teacher training workshops (Bennett, 1995). If one of the features is absent, frustration and heightened resentment may occur as backlash behaviors multiply. The effects of a positive multicultural climate may manifest in a number of ways, such as: a) diminished pockets of segregation among student body; b) less racial tension in the schools; c) increased ethnic minority retention and classroom performance; and, d) inclusion of a multicultural curriculum. In short, the multicultural educational environment should not be a microcosm of our present American society, with regard to issues of diversity and tolerance. Many factors determine a successful multicultural atmosphere, but the features as outlined above may be important indications of success. Administrative support for multicultural education is critical. How can a house stand if the foundation is fragile. Multicultural education will be as successful as commitment to it by school administrators. Regardless of the level of commitment (local, state, and/or national), programs initiated under the guise of multiculturalism must receive reinforcement from administrators who are accountable for the success of established multicultural initiatives. A key factor in any proposed multicultural initiative is curriculum development. A multicultural curriculum should be considered for several reasons: a) provides alternative points of view relative to information already taught in most educational systems; b) provides ethnic minorities with a sense of being inclusive in history, science etc. and, c) decreases stereotypes, prejudice, bigotry, and racism in America and the world. A significant demographic transformation is on the horizon for American schools. Educational institutions have been dictated too long by attitudes, values, beliefs, and value systems of one race and class of people. The future of our universe is demanding a positive change for all (Hilliard Pine, 1990).

A Summary Of Women In Prison Criminology Essay

A Summary Of Women In Prison Criminology Essay Womens segment is one of the fastest growing segments of prison population all over the world, but especially in the United States. The increasing amounts of women are locked in prisons due to different reasons. A lot of women in prisons are drug addicts who originally took drugs to escape a life of difficulty and childhood trauma. A lot of were caught being as mules in drugs trades. Also the main part of women in prison has been victims of domestic violence some time in their lives. Nearly all of imprisoned women are from poor and working class families. Here are average demographics of women in prison, presented by Anti-racist group Committee to End the Marion Lockdown. During the years 1980 and 1993, the female population of prison increased nearly 313%, at the same time men increase 182% during the same period. In 1993 the number of women was 5.8% of the total prison population and 9.3% of the whole jail population. Women prisoners are divided like this: African American women 46%, White women 36%, and Hispanic Women 14%. The majority of incarcerated women are poor. So 53% of women in prisons and 74% of women in jails were unemployed before incarceration. The imprisoning of women has a bad influence on her family. 67% of women in prisons are mothers of children who are under 18. 70% of these women (and only 50% of men) had custody of their dependent children before imprisonment. Statistics shows that 6% of women are pregnant at the moment when they go to prison. A big amount of incarcerated women had domestic violence. 32% of imprisoned women (nearly 4,000 women) are in prisons because of murders of their husbands, ex-husbands or boyfriends. http://www-unix.oit.umass.edu/~kastor/walking-steel-95/ws-women-in-prison.html Women in prison suffer from violence, discrimination and other kind of injustices. It is known that 57% of imprisoned women have had severe and prolonged sexual and physical abuse. (3 Cristina Rathbone, A World Apart, Random House, May 2005, p. 22.). Being in prison, women are objects of sexual misconduct from correctional staff and other prisoners. (4 GAO report Women in Prison: Sexual Misconduct by Correctional Staff June 1999, p.9). Men and women are alike subjected to imprisonment but little attention has been given to the various needs and problems of imprisoned women as opposed to those of men. This omission may reflect the fact that women prisoners are a very small minority of the overall prison population: only four percent worldwide. Throughout the world, the regimes in prison are nearly always created for the majority male prison population and that is why they dont provide for the women needs. Female prisoners have different mental, physical, and emotional needs, not the same as men have. Prisons may be unable to offer adequate maternity and ante-natal care, or appropriate access to feminine hygiene products. Women can have different needs relating to problems such as substance addiction, mental health, and anger management, sexual or physical abuse. Women in prisons have a higher level of mental diseases and are more likely to have been victims of all kinds of abuse than the general population and are at higher risk of self-harm and suicide. They may respond differently to security regimes and require less harsh forms of physical restraint. In mixedsex prisons the security regime may be disproportionately harsher for women because it is designed for men. Most women in prison are mothers and/or the main carer for children, thus it is particularly important that ways be found of helping them to maintain family ties. Research shows that custodial sentences are not appropriate for many women and not effective in reducing offending or reoffending. The experience of imprisonment can have damaging effects for both mothers and their children and can exacerbate mental health issues or problematic drug or alcohol addiction among women in prison. So, here is a description of all levels of imprisonment, the description of womens life in prison and the destiny of children of women in prison. 1. Arrest of a woman. Police officers may not ask whether the woman they are arresting has children or allow her time to explain to the children what is happening or make arrangements for their care. This increases the anxiety of both children and mothers and makes the arrest more difficult for the officer. 2. Pre-trial detention. Women may be more likely to be placed in pre-trial detention than men. This is because on the indicators used to determine a persons likelihood of absconding before trial (such as secure employment and owning or renting property in ones own name) women tend to come out lower. Factors such as caring responsibilities are not taken into account. Even if a woman is acquitted at trial, she may have lost her job, her home or her place on mental health or drug rehabilitation programs in the meantime. For children, having a mother placed in pre-trial detention has many of the same effects as having a mother imprisoned following conviction. 3. Sentencing. Despite their statistically small proportion in the overall prison population, the rate of imprisonment of women is increasing rapidly. The reasons for this appear to be changes in sentencing policy and law enforcement priorities, rather than a change in the amount or severity of crime in which women are involved. Severity of sentence. Attitudes towards women criminals may lead to harsher sentences, including imprisonment for offences for which men would not be imprisoned. Some discrimination against women reflects the social culture rather than specifically the criminal justice system: thus contravening social mores may lead to women being criminalised. Type of crime. In most countries, women are in prison for non-violent, property or drug offences. Generally, women have a lower involvement in serious violence, criminal damage and professional crime. Length of sentence. In many countries, a relatively high proportion of female prisoners appear to serve fairly short prison sentences. It should be borne in mind that a short sentence, for example six months, may be just as disruptive as a longer sentence for a woman prisoner, who may lose her children, her job, and her home as a result of the sentence. 4. Prisons. The number, type, geographical location and distribution of national prisons will affect the quality of womens imprisonment. The provision in a country is usually a practical matter of the resources available, and also reflects the penal philosophy of that country. Some factors are outlined below. Location. Because there are fewer female prisoners there are fewer single-sex prisons for women. Women who are held in single-sex prisons are therefore more likely to be held long distances from their families and communities than men, making visiting and the maintenance of family ties more difficult. This is especially problematic for women who were the sole carers of dependent children before their imprisonment. It also affects other specific categories of female prisoners, such as juveniles, whose numbers are even smaller. Level of security. Levels of security in prison are generally put in place to stop men escaping, which may mean that prisons are disproportionately harsher for women. In addition, the smaller number of womens prisons compared to mens means that there is less opportunity to provide institutions of different security classifications. The prisons regimes will be determined by the maximum security requirement, meaning that many women will be held according to a security classification that is stricter than could be justified by any assessment of the risk that they pose. Shared facilities. Women with diverse needs and a history of offending may be inappropriately held together under the same security regime. Sometimes women awaiting trial are held with women who have been sentenced, which is contrary to best practice. Women who are detained in prisons which also hold men may be required to share facilities and attend classes with male prisoners. This is not a suitable environment for women who have experienced abuse or require strict separation from men. Overcrowding. Prisons are often overcrowded and offer reduced exercise facilities, and time spent out of cells. This pressure may also reduce the numbers of available rehabilitative programmes educational, vocational, counselling as well as of drug and alcohol dependency programmes. Education, training and work. Prisons may offer a range of educational and work opportunities compulsory work or voluntary work (either paid or unpaid). In single-sex prisons where there are few women, access to education, training and work opportunities may be severely limited. In mixed-sex prisons women may be required to attend classes or work with male prisoners. This may be unsuitable and even threatening for some women. In some countries, women prisoners are given traditionally feminine jobs, such as catering or sewing. This is not a problem if there is a market for such skills outside the prison but jobs should not be allocated simply because of the gender of the prisoner. Women whose children live with them in prison may not be able to work or take education courses if there are no childcare facilities. Opportunities for prisoners awaiting trial and sentenced prisoners may also differ significantly. 5. Physical health health care General health and health care. Women prisoners suffer poor physical and mental health at rates and with a severity far exceeding those of male prisoners or of women in the general population. Some of this may be related to the reasons why they have been imprisoned, for example drug use and hence drug dependency and associated health problems. Sexual abuse and exploitation of women before and during imprisonment can lead to gynaecological problems, HIV and other sexuallytransmitted diseases, pregnancy, child-birth or abortion. Disease in prisons. Diseases and infections associated with overcrowding and poor health and hygiene conditions such as tuberculosis, hepatitis and HIV/AIDS, are additional risks for women in prisons. Drug alcohol addiction. Prisoners are more likely to suffer from drug/alcohol addiction than in the community at large. Existing research indicates that 75% of women who go to European prisons are already drug and alcohol users and that female prisoners are more likely to be addicted to harder drugs than male prisoners. Health care provision. Standards of medical care within prisons vary greatly both from country to country and from prison to prison. When health care facilities are outside the prison they may offer better standards of provision, but they may create other problems such as: â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The shame and discomfort for women of being taken there in prison clothing or in handcuffs, particularly if they have to wait in public areas within the hospital. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Shortages of prison staff reducing the availability of escorts for women to attend hospital. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Male prison staff accompanying female prisoners and being present during medical consultations and examinations. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Perceived lack of security in civilian institutions leading to women being shackled to beds, even during child-birth. Sexual health. Universally HIV among women prisoners is higher than in the general population. HIV positive women risk passing the disease onto their babies and unborn children. Womens high rates of drug addiction expose them to the risk of catching HIV through sharing needles. Female health hygiene. The prison may not provide for the sanitary needs of women or women may have to pay for their own sanitary provision. Women who are menstruating or going through the menopause need regular daily showers. It is humiliating for women to have to use washing and toilet facilities in the presence of others, most particularly during menstruation. They should also be able to change their bed linen frequently. Older women may go through the menopause while imprisoned, and their medical and/or psychological needs need to be identified and met at this time. They may also have particular health care needs such as hormone replacement therapy or food supplements. Pregnancy and childbirth. Pregnant women in prisons need special resources and attention to diet, exercise, clothing, medication and medical care. Prison is not an easy place to be pregnant and the inflexibility of a prison regime is incompatible with the needs and care of a pregnant body. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  It is more difficult to catch up on missed sleep and missed meals and hard to take baths or showers as often as needed. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  It may be difficult for the prison to transport prisoners to health care checks and scans, ante-natal classes and post-natal care. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ante-natal and post-natal care may not be seen as medical priorities by prison staff. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  It may be difficult for a prisoner to see a midwife. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Alerting staff to a medical problem, even the onset of labour, may be difficult, particularly at night. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The stress of imprisonment can have a deleterious impact on the development of a pregnancy. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Restraining pregnant women in the same way as other women prisoners may endanger both the woman and the fetus. 6. Mental health. Mental health problems are more spread among women prisoners than in the prison for men or in the general prison. A lot of women have problems with lower-level of mental health, such as personality disorder, which do not qualify them for a psychiatric bed. Such women may need access to treatments and therapy designed specifically for them, and even in women-only prisons conditions may not be ideal. Women can be extremely worried about what will happen to their children, especially in the early stages of detention. Research has suggested that this can exacerbate or bring on mental health problems. Depression, self-harm and suicide. Doctors are more likely to diagnose depression in women than in men (even when they have similar scores on standardized measures of depression) and more likely to prescribe mood altering psychotropic drugs to women than to men. Outside prison men are more likely to commit suicide than women but the position is reversed inside prison, and self-harm in prison is a huge problem and more prevalent among women in prison. 7. Violence and vulnerability. In those countries where all prisoners are vulnerable to torture and inhuman and degrading treatment, women (and juvenile female) prisoners are particularly at risk, both from male prisoners and from male prison guards. The power imbalance between prisoners and guards together with the closed nature of prisons provide opportunities for harassment, exploitation, abuse, prostitution, rape and indecent assault of female prisoners by staff, both male and female. They may also be subjected to abuse and exploitation from other prisoners, both male and female. Even in countries where this is not the case, such as in the UK, women prisoners are vulnerable to other prisoners. A high proportion of UK women prisoners tell that they feel unsafe. The issues about safety and security of female prisoners include: â‚ ¬Ã‚  Location of female cells in mixed prisons. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Location and use of shared facilities, in particular showers and toilets. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Whether male prison guards hold contact positions over female prisoners (posts which permit or require them to be in physical proximity to the prisoners, sometimes unsupervised by other, female, staff). â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Strip searches: women prisoners as a group are more likely than other women generally and/or male prisoners to have experienced sexual assault: this makes strip-searching especially traumatic for them. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The existence or lack of effective supervision and complaints mechanisms which enable prisoners to complain without exposing them to intimidation or further abuse for example, seeing a doctor in the presence of guards means that violence towards and abuse of prisoners by guards is less likely to be reported by the prisoner. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Women who are subject to sexual abuse or exploitation face the added problems relating to the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, the questions of pregnancy and child-birth or abortion, and all the associated physical, mental and emotional health issues. 8. Mothers in prison. Most women in prison around the world are mothers. Women are more likely to be the sole or primary carer for children and this factor makes the prison experience significantly different for women. The effects of maternal imprisonment on their families are generally more disruptive than the effects of paternal imprisonment. This is not adequately recognized by the criminal justice system. Since the numbers of women who are sent to a prison are rather low and the tendency to send women to prison for lesser nonviolent offences is increasing, so the woman herself can not understand the possibility of imprisonment as the outcome of her deeds. That is why the woman doesnt have the opportunity to make any preparations or provision for her kids before being taken into custody. Such fact can be a cause of additional stress for her and her kids. Prison visits from children. Visiting prisons can be a difficult and frustrating experience for children. So, traveling for a long distance, entering a grim building, being searched, spending time in a harsh adult environment with a mother that one might not even be able to touch may be extremely distressing to a child. This in turn may make the childs carer less inclined to undertake this arduous task, as well as leaving the mother distraught and reluctant to have further visits from the child. Furthermore, the new carers may have their own family responsibilities, as well as financial constraints, which put strains on taking in additional children (leading to children moving from one carer to another) and in particular adding to the financial, time and emotional burdens of taking children to visit their imprisoned mother. Evidence suggests that the children of imprisoned mothers, and particularly those who are taken into state care during the mothers imprisonment, are at significantly greater risk of developing criminal behavior in adulthood than other children. 9. Children of imprisoned mothers. The rights and best interests of the children of women prisoners are rarely considered during criminal justice processes, even though parental imprisonment has a major impact on their lives. There are three options: â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The child has to go to prison with the mother, and the consequence of that. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The child is separated from the mother, and the consequence of that. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Where there is more than one child and they are treated differently; i.e. one goes to prison with the mother, the other is separated, and the consequences of that. Within each of these, there are then a number of matters to be considered which are encapsulated in the table overleaf. Children separated from their mother. Children left in the community may be looked after by their father, grandparents, other relatives or friends of the family, taken into state care or left without carers. Siblings may be separated from each other in order to make the situation not to difficult, or they may be taken into State institutions. A prisoner living in insecure or rented accommodation will usually lose this when s/he enters prison and getting accommodation when released is often difficult. A mother whose children have been placed in the care of the state or another person usually cannot reclaim custody without appropriate accommodation, so even a short prison term may lead to permanent separation of families. Registering details of prisoners children is not part of the reception procedure in many countries. Some prisoners may not disclose this information voluntarily for fear that their children will be permanently taken away from them. As a result, governments do not make social provision or policies which address the problem of children with incarcerated parents. The imprisonment of the mother has a great impact on the children; it affects every aspect of their lives and not just the relationships with their mother. It feels the same as while the bereavement, but with less support, from the new carer, teachers, and other people. Children of imprisoned parents have an increased tendency to exhibit aggressive and anti-social behaviour compared to the general population. Researchers have found that the effects of parental imprisonment can be serious. Studies of prisoners children consistently report that children experience a range of psychosocial problems during the imprisonment of a parent, including: depression, hyperactivity, aggressive behaviour, withdrawal, regression, clinging behaviour, problems with sleeping and eating, running away, truancy, low school grades and delinquency. The impact on the children will, of course, vary according to their age, surrounding family and community response, environment and individual character. Babies and children in prison. Some women may spend part or all of a pregnancy in prison and give birth while still serving their sentence. The bonding of an infant with her/his primary carer is essential for her/his long term emotional development and should be given high priority. If mothers give birth while serving their sentence, or are imprisoned when they have a baby or young child, that baby or young child may come into the prison to live with them. Special resources and facilities available to mother and babies in prison varies, but usually consist of accommodation within a specialized Mother and Baby Unit (MBU). Toys are sometimes provided for the children and the mother may have more freedom in terms of staying in an unlocked room, having access to a kitchen in which she can prepare food for the child etc. Because of the small number of women in prison who have children living with them, the number of MBUs is low, meaning that a mother may be imprisoned a long way from the rest of her family. This creates problems regarding prison visits and maintaining contact with any older children in the family. Additional concerns about babies and children living in prison are the effect this has on their development physical, mental and emotional. How long babies or young children can reside in prison with their mothers or even whether they can do so at all varies considerably across countries. The separation of mother and child can be a very traumatic experience for them both. Some countries try and make the separation process as gradual as possible, in order to ease the pain and trauma of separation. Babies and young children who are living in prison with their mother also require specialized health care. Women who know that their children will be removed from them shortly after birth may exhibit mental health problems and/or reject the baby or fail to bond with it. 10. Maintaining links with family. When imprisoned mothers are the primary carer of children, separation from their mothers is usually more traumatic than if the father is incarcerated; this is of course much worse where the mother is the sole carer. Research has shown that if family ties are maintained, the chances of prisoners re-offending upon release are lowered, so it is important to take measures to try to preserve these ties. Problems in maintaining these links include: â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Doing so through letters is hard for those with low literacy skills, and self vidently problematic in relation to young children. â‚ ¬Ã‚ ­Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Overcoming what is often a greater distance between the woman and her family. 11. Specific groups of prisoners. Foreign nationals. Foreign national women prisoners may be either resident or non-resident in the country where they are imprisoned. Common difficulties may be faced by both male and female foreign national prisoners, such as problems relating to language and misunderstandings surrounding the customs and cultures of the host country, which may lead to isolation. In prisons where the prisoners are dependent on external assistance, whether for basics such as food, hygiene products and clothing, or for small luxuries, women without family at hand to visit not only face the direct problems of not having such items, but are vulnerable to exploitation by other prisoners or prison guards in order to receive the necessities for living. Foreign national women who are not resident in the country of imprisonment may often be very far away from their children and families, causing them anguish and anxiety. Their children may not have the financial means to come and visit them. Telephone calls may be prohibitively expensive for both the mother and her children and difficult to arrange because of time differences. If the children are too young to read and write, then communication via letters is not an option. Many women foreign nationals in prison are there for drug smuggling and may have left their children in the temporary care of friends or family, expecting to return in a few days. Imprisonment may put a womans family (children and others) in significant danger from the people who employed her to smuggle drugs. Resident foreign national women can face deportation when they have completed their sentence, which means further separation from their families, or their having to relocate as well. Transgender prisoners. Transgender prisoners face particular difficulties and pose special challenges to the prison system precisely because of the question as to their classification as male or female prisoners. Racial minorities/ indigenous prisoners. In many countries with indigenous populations, indigenous women represent the fastest growing segment of the prison population. Their double minority status within the prison system, being both indigenous and women, means that where training and other programmes exist they may have to choose between those intended for indigenous men or for non-indigenous women. They may also have different needs from other women prisoners. 12. Post-release issues. Women leaving prison receive varying degrees of support from the prison and social services. They may face many problems in addition to the pressures which may have caused them to commit their initial crime, such as: getting a job, finding accommodation, staying drug or alcohol free and regaining custody of children who have been in state care during their imprisonment. Even a short prison term may lead to the mother losing the rented accommodation in which she had been living, and it is common for a mother to be unable to regain custody of her children if she does not have anywhere to live. This makes it very difficult for women to resume normal lives outside of prison, and may be a factor which contributes to re-offending. Although all released prisoners face issues surrounding their efforts to reintegrate into society, for parents these may be compounded by the need to reconcile with children who may have changed (as well as grown up) during their absence. These children may have taken on new roles in the family and developed close relation-ships with alternative carers, both of which can cause tension if the returning parent tries to go back to the way things were. Reoffending by parents can also have a devastating impact on their children, as they lose their parent for a second time. As it was written above, the female population in the U.S. prison is escalating faster than the male population. According to statistics, the U.S. has 10 times more women in prison than the combined nations of Western Europe. (http://www-personal.umich.edu/~lormand/agenda/0107/womenprison.htm. Phillis Engelbert, Women in Prison, Agenda, July/August 2001). Women are sent to prison for different crimes, but there they need a specialized care and treatment. A lot of women have drug and alcohol problems and need to be treated accordingly. A lot of women in prison have children and this is one more reason for special treatment.

My Philosophy of Education :: Philosophy of Teaching Educational Learning Essay

My Philosophy of Education Education today is very different than that of twenty years ago. I think that today’s educators have more interest in test scores and the outcome of standardized testing, than the level of content that a child is learning and the successfulness of the teaching and learning process. I want to meet both of the aspects. I want my students to have high test scores and do well for our school, yet at the same time have fun learning. I want to make a child excited about learning and thrilled about coming to school to learn. I think that even children with learning disabilities should feel overjoyed about being in school, as opposed to dreading it every day. Seeing a child learn lights up my life. I like to see a child pick up a book to read instead of pick a remote control to a video game. I strive to make a difference in children’s lives. My ideal classroom would be that of a first grade level. Therefore it would have to have learning assistants such as letter pronunciation flash cards and numbers from one to at least 30. I would have the children’s desks all facing forward, towards the chalkboard, but in a â€Å"U† shape instead of columns. I think that this would help me to be able to keep my eyes on all students and I would be able to maintain eye contact with the students. This would also help me to know when a child is struggling with something. There would be bulletin boards on either side of the chalkboard that would contain important material such as a calendar, numbers, classroom and school-wide rules, among other things. The back of the classroom would also have bulletin boards. These would contain the children’s projects. I think that it’s important to display the students’ projects so as to praise them for their work and to show how they have improved over the y ear. I believe that I will have a non-authoritarian classroom, but it will have order. At the beginning of the year I will ask the students to tell me what they think the classroom rules should be and I will compromise with them.

Grant :: essays research papers

The American Cancer Society Youth Initiative Cancer Prevention and Youth For the first time in recorded history, children are less healthy than their parents were at the same age. According to the most recent Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control, youth tobacco rates are at an all time high among high school students (28.5%), only 21.4% of youth report eating five servings of fruit and vegetables daily, and only 32.2% of these youth report participation in daily physical exercise. It is now a widely accepted notion that much of the risks of cancer can be reduced through healthy behaviors and that cancer is mostly a preventable disease. In fact, research shows that nearly two-thirds of all cancers may be prevented by reducing tobacco use, increasing physical activity and changing nutrition behaviors. It is the belief of many experts that these health behaviors are ultimately learned as children and youth. The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. To achieve the goal of reducing cancer incidence and mortality, we must commit ourselves to a strategic and integrated approach to cancer prevention and influence the healthy choices that youth make while they are open to learning and change. Youth Programs at the American Cancer Society The Northwest Division of the American Cancer Society, serving Washington, Oregon, Montana, and Alaska, began to formalize its cancer prevention youth activities in 1998 through a program titled Speak Out! These programs and activities began with a primary focus on preventing and reducing tobacco use among youth and served overall approximately 450 youth and 110 adult mentors annually, the majority (85%) from Washington State. Speak Out! activities continue today and include Speak Out! Summer Summit, a week-long youth leadership and advocacy training program for high school aged youth. Youth are trained in team-building, leadership skills, planning skills and advocacy techniques to learn how to mobilize peers and communities to prevent tobacco use. In addition to Summer Summit, youth programs originally designed included 6 workshops spread out over four days. These annual workshops continue today and provide education, information and the tools to assist youth and adult leaders in their efforts to build effective youth coalitions and community partnerships to support tobacco prevention and advocacy efforts. This year (2003) we plan to add advanced-track programs and offer a total of 12 workshops.

Graduation Speech: Our Journey -- Graduation Speech, Commencement Addr

Roughly eighteen years ago, the twelve of us seniors were born in different places, under different circumstances and in different families, far from knowing each other and crossing each other's paths. Yet, God has already taken each of us under His tender care to work in us according to His plan. Our journey under the supervision of God has already started back then, each of us at a different starting point. After raising and nurturing each individual in a very personal way, it was in God's perfect plan for all of us to finally bring the twelve of us together at Johnson Academy and to make it part of our journeys to cross our paths with one another. If it were not for this school, many of us probably would not have known each other. We are living evidences that God has been at work in us all along from the beginning, because just the fact that people we don't know, know the same God, are living for the same God and love the same God is proof of God's existence and His universal work. We can only reach and impact so many and when we see that God has reached far beyond what we can reach and has everything under control. We fall on our knees and worship Him, because we know we are so small, worthless and ineffective compared to the mighty work God is doing. The twelve of us were brought together for the purpose of praising God for the work He has done in each of us, for we wouldn't have kno wn, let alone impacted each other, unless God had chosen to work in us and to draw us together in this time of our lives. Every change, every incident and every circumstance regardless of how small they may seem, are God's conscious provision and will that is actively taking place every day. Nothing is a coincidence, or luck. Throughou... ...rney the twelve of us took together and His plan to lead each of us into different directions, yet for the same purpose, to manifest His glory. Let me close with some verses from my favorite psalm, number 139. "For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You." Thank you.

Discrimination Against LGBT Essay

To millions of Americans, the right to equality is being violated because of their sexual orientation. Federal and state Constitutional amendments that define marriage as between a man and a woman deny gay Americans these rights. These rights were/are violated when certain states ban gay marriage by law, when opposing gay marriage is based on religious views, and when pursuit of happiness is taken away from a gay american. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution both give Americans the rights of Equal Protection Under Law, Freedom of Religion, and the Pursuit of Happiness. People who are LGBT are not getting treated equally and are even being discriminated in some cases. The fourteenth amendments states that there should be Equal Protection under the law. It protects individuals from arbitrary discrimination by government officials. In the map of the U.S. which showed which states allow gay marriage, only twenty one states allow some form of domestic partnership (â€Å" Current Status†) and the rest of the states ban gay equality. As a country, equality is banned by law. The democratic ideal of equality was violated in this case. In the first amendment, it states that there should be freedom of religion, which includes freedom from religion. This is the separation of church and state. In an interview with president Obama, it said in 2004, Obama cited his own views saying that christian marriage was between a man and a woman (â€Å"President†). This shows that sometimes opposition to gay marriage is based on religious groups’ agendas. In the first amendment, the establishment clause says that government cannot favor one religion over another. They should not make laws that ban gay marriage just because of one religion. In the declaration of independence, it says that pursuit of happiness an unalienable right that the people have. The pursuit of happiness means â€Å"The right to pursue any lawful business or vocation, in any manner not inconsistent with the equal rights of others, which may increase their prosperity or develop their faculties, so as to give them their highest enjoyment.† In some cases, if some one was found to be gay, they would often lose their job or lose friends, and they might not be treated the same way as they used to (The Associated Press). In 2001, Dennis and Judy Shepherd were denied the right to the pursuit of happiness because their son, Matthew was stolen in an act of violence because he was gay (â€Å"Obama†). It was pretty hard for Matthew’s parents after such a big loss. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution both gives Americans the rights of Equal Protection Under Law, Freedom of Religion, and the Pursuit of Happiness. In these three cases people who are LGBT are not getting treated equally and are being discriminated. All people should be treated equally and should be able to get married.

How schools kills creativity Essay

Sir Ken Robinson present about how schools kills creativity in a very interesting way. In other words, he manage to grab people’s attention in all over twenty minutes of the presentation by telling jokes. According to Sir Ken Robinson these days students are educated to be a good workers rather than creators. Sir Ken said â€Å"Creativity now is as important in education as literacy, and we should treat it with the same status.† children have a great ability in innovation because they are not afraid to make mistakes. According to Sir Ken if you’re not prepared to be wrong you’ll never come up with anything original. However, being wrong is not the same thing as being creative but you can’t be creative unless you make some mistakes. These days we teach our children that being wrong is the worst thing ever and that kills creativity in them. Every single child in the world is an artist according to Picasso and if they’re frighten to make mistake they won’t be able to create anything, thus we’re educating them out of their creative capacities as Sir Ken said. No doubt that what Sir Ken said is right and I totally agree with him. I think that the way that we are educating people these days is not right at all, because we are putting limits to their minds. In other words, we recruit people to be workers not creators and so people want their degrees just to get a good job. As a result, they get their job and that’s it they do nothing, if we will push all people to study and get their degrees 50 years later degrees will have no value. Many people have talent but they think they’re not as Sir Ken said â€Å"Many highly talented, brilliant, creative people think they’re not — because the thing they were good at school wasn’t valued, or was actually stigmatized.†

Gay Marriages Essay

When newer lifestyles creep into our society, inline with our thoughts and liberties, guardians of the older versions are likely to be taken back. These lifestyle changes happen in every sphere of life, like the way we eat or work. In getting along with it, we may have to abandon our traditional ways. Sometimes these may go unnoticed, as it may be beneficial to all, having none to worry about it. But other times the issues in question may be very important and fundamental, and there would be a social debate. Homosexuality and gay marriages is one such issue, which is still being debated widely. With homosexuality and gay marriages becoming increasingly present in our society, it is important that the subject be well debated and all issues projected so that it helps people to take appropriate decisions. The issue of homosexuality is not just relevant for the partners, but also to the families they are a part of, and to the society as a whole. It is therefore important that the society be well informed of the legal and social aspects of gay marriages, while being alive to the fact that evolving lifestyle issues could knock at anyone’s door. The media has a very important and responsible role in helping the larger part of the society to come to terms with evolving lifestyles.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This is perhaps what the film ‘The Wedding Banquet’ has attempted and succeeded. ‘The Wedding Banquet’ is a thoughtful and touching Chinese film revolving around homosexuality and family ties. The film brings into focus the perception of modern lifestyles, from the traditional point of view, and the difficulties and experiences involved in coming to terms with it (Don). The film projects homosexuality in a wider perspective. A gay relationship, in the midst of a heterosexual marriage and parenting, shows the wider realm of homosexuality and gay relationships. The film brings into focus a gay relationship between a Taiwanese expatriate Wai-Tung and his doctor boyfriend Simon. When Wai-Tung’s parents pressurize their son for his marriage, he plans to buy time by putting impossible conditions for his bride. However a dating company succeeds in finding a suitable match, when Wai-Tung strikes into a convenience marriage with his tenant Wei Wei. The marriage would help Wei Wei from being deported. It is when the parents of Wai-Tung reach America for the wedding banquet of their son, does they know of the developments in the family. The film has several turning points like when Wei Wei seduces an inebriated Wai-Tung and becomes pregnant, leading to deterioration in his relationship with Simon. Wai-Tung’s father approves of the actions of Simon, who he takes as his adopted son . His mother on the other hand is drawn affectionally to her daughter-in-law, whom his father considers as a business participant. At the end the father and mother leave for Taiwan, without any discontent. The movie definitely seems to address the issue of homosexuality in the family context. Bringing the issue of homosexuality face-to-face with traditionally heterosexual cultures, gets everyone on their toes to accept the reality. Lifestyle choices are here to stay and traditions must pave way to it and coexist. This low budget film won recognition for its director Ang Lee, who himself makes a short appearance as a banquet guest. It also won the Golden Bear award in the Berlin Film Festival of 1993 and the best film and best director awards at the 1993 Seattle International Film Festival (Berardinelli, 1993).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The rights of homosexuals are increasingly gaining support with time. Homosexuals are being more welcome in our society and their rights are becoming more obvious. Gone are those days when homosexuality was considered a serious crime and homosexuals looked upon as people with sick minds. Although there are societies which still consider homosexuality a crime, it isn’t as dreadful as it once was. These developments indicate the growing perception that homosexuals are a part of our society and therefore should be accorded equal rights, equal protection and equal support from all welfare activities. The favorable trend towards homosexuals may be attributed to the general liberalization of policies in most parts of the world, broader thinking among people and the mixing of cultures and mingling of economics. But it is indeed sad that this never before support, is not extended to gay marriages. A major part of this support and backing, of homosexuality stops short of gay marriages. This indifference to gay marriage, particularly from among supporters of homosexuality stems from their perception of marriage and homosexuality. Gays are generally thought to have multiple partners and that therefore their relationships cannot be deep or emotional. The gays are considered as uncommitted and not being capable of forming lasting relationships. This description of gays cannot be challenged, as gays do have such relationships too. However, it should be noted here that such relationships also exist in heterosexual or straight society too, maybe to a small extent and that too mainly among the youth. What most people need to understand about gays is that, as gays grow and mature, they too like their straight counterparts begin to value and seek committed lasting relationships.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is important to realize the basics behind the emergence of homosexuality. Homosexuality is a naturally developing phenomenon. However, most ignorant people attribute it to a defiance of heterosexual norms and an intention to experiment.   Some people feel that gays could choose being a heterosexual if they wanted, but that, only a very few consider that they have a choice. It is only like heterosexuals being asked to choose the sex they are attracted to. It should be understood that being a gay is natural and not selected. Several gay people, both men and women recall being attracted to people of their own sex from a very young age. The sexual orientation in most people emerge at a very early age like early adolescence, even prior to any sexual experience. Homosexual orientation is a complex subject and cannot be explained by any single or a simple, plain model. No consistent results have been found from research undertaken for homosexual orientation. Despite studying evolutionary and hormonal pattern in homosexuality, scientists have not yet understood the development of homosexual orientation in an individual. Therefore it is improper to assume that homosexuals have a choice, which they have chosen to bypass. Today however, most scientists agree that sexual orientation results from an influence of environment, cognitive and biological factors. Genetic and inborn hormonal traits play an important role in deciding a person’s sexual attitude. Psychologists and psychiatrists believe that homosexuality is not due to emotional or mental disorders; and it was in 1973, when the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from its official list of emotional and mental disorders, after appropriate research (APA, 2008). Research based on twin studies also indicate that male homosexuality is genetically mediated. A study with about 76 gay brothers and their families in 1993 by Dean Hamer found that gay men had more gay uncles and cousins on the maternal side compared to the paternal side. One of the most reliable finding in homosexuality adoption was reported by Blanchard and Klassen in 1997, which suggested that the odds of an individual being a gay increased by 33% correpondingly for each older brother. It has been implied that the male foetus causes a maternal immune reaction which is increasingly stronger for each successive male foetus.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Gay marriages are wrongly perceived by many people to alter family environment. The customary saying that marriage is an institution between a man and a woman holds no water, as there is no real and moral judgement behind it. Such definitions of marriages only raise questions on the eligibility and authenticity of the defining person or institution. Who should be the one to define marriage?. They feel that same-sex couples cannot provide the necessary environment for children’s normal growth. In continuation of this, many consider same-sex marriage as a deterrent to births and continuation of species. They don’t realise that marriages are not just directed to bearing children, as even infertile couples choose to marry or heterosexual couples sometimes choose against having children. Marriage is more about sharing, love and commitment and less about bearing children. It should be realized that gay couples are capable of raising children as much as any straight couple. The fact that there is no significant difference between the children of gay and straight couples, has been proved by research. Psychologists are of the opinion that the gender of the parent is not important in raising the child; it’s the love and commitment on the part of the parents that matter. As for the continuation of species, human species are in no danger of dwindling due to reproductive failure. In fact the population explosion is really disturbing and serious issues are at stake for the oncoming generations. Gay marriages can only help in slowing the rate of population increase, than adding to it. Gay marriages have seen results, since it has already been experimented. Denmark legalised gay marriages in 1989. Several Dutch cities have had same-sex marriage rights for many years. The clergy at first offered opposition to the Danish law and a survey conducted at that time indicated that about 72 percent of the clergy opposed the law. However another survey conducted in 1995 revealed that 89 percent of the clergy supported the law. Gay marriages have been experimented and proved to strengthen the institution of marriage and contribute to the society. Any doubts on the success of gay marriages are fully vacated and its positive impact on the society acknowledged.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The interpretation of gay marriage in religion should not be ignored when considering gay marriages. Given the binding of religion and its influence on every aspect of life, people consider religious beliefs above all contemporary issues associated with gay marriages, when deciding on them. Some religions are against homosexuality and gay marriages while some do not consider it as something important to be preached upon. In the Old Testament only two passages are referred to homosexuality, among the several thousands (Piazza, 2007). Buddhism in fact attracts several homosexuals, as there isn’t any homophobia preaching in it. The Theravada Buddhism considers all relationships i.e.; gay, lesbian or straight as being personal matters bearing mutual consent (Robinson, 2008). Therefore all relationships are considered constructive and acceptable as long as both partners are happy. Many people, who believe in Christianity, oppose homosexuality and gay marriage, on the basis of the bible. It should primarily be noted here that the bible was written at a period when there was no understanding of homosexuality or psychosexual orientation. The bible therefore does not recognise people as lesbians or gays. The inference was only directed to homosexual acts committed by persons who were considered heterosexual. However, the bible has been successfully used to interpret the views of both advocates and opponents of homosexuality whenever homosexuality is deliberated. According to the Roman Catholic Church, any sex that does not lead to procreation should be avoided and thus the use of condoms and masturbation is condemned. However, it should also be noted that the church approves sex among sterile couples and sex during pregnancy, which do not lead to procreation (Corvino, 1997). An important aspect of bible interpretation is that, many Christians interpret all texts with much flexibility except when it comes to homosexuality, where  Ã‚   all references to homosexual acts are taken literally. The bible actually pays very little attention to this subject and most importantly Jesus speaks nothing on this topic, in the New Testament. This apart, most instructions and recommendations of the bible are of lesser relevance today, like avoiding pork. The teachings are subconsciously breached casually, as we go about our everyday lives. For instance, there was a prominent woman once spoke at length against homosexuality, in the course of which she broke several Biblical laws by Levitical standards (Piazza, 2007), namely speaking in church, she taught men and wore a cotton and polyester dress. The Bible interestingly has a few example of same sex love. David’s love for Jonathan was implied to be greater than his love for woman, Ruth’s deep love relationship with Naomi and Ruth’s words of pledge are used in most heterosexual weddings.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Even though gay couples are now socially accepted like never before, they are far from equal civil rights. The withholding of civil rights to gay couples can sometimes be life ruining and even life threatening. The inconvenience and sufferings of gay couples as a consequence of these unequal rights can be endlessly said. In most American states, gay couples are not given the right to make medical decisions for their partners, during emergencies. State laws stipulate that the hospitals should reach out to the families of the hospitalised partner, thereby ignoring the gay partner’s concern. Very often, the families are not in good terms with the gay couple, and may even be without contact for a considerable long time. It is obvious that the decisions taken by such families would not be in the best interests of the couple. It is sad that the hostile family even have the right to exclude the partner from the treatment room. Even upon death, the will of the gay partner can be easily challenged and custody decisions overturned by the family (Bidstrup, 2004). Families have the right to deny the surviving partner, even a visit to his partner’s grave. There are several cases where gay couples had been extremely careful in drafting their will, which however were overturned, leaving the surviving partner literally penniless. Whenever arrested, gay couples are forced to provide evidence and testify against their partners. Most gay couples, particularly the older ones have numerous such stories of injustices meted out to their friends or acquaintances. The testimony of a gay partner is as irrelevant as the testimony of a complete stranger, in most courts. In case the partner is jailed, the right to visit the partner is denied in most cases. In matters of law, arrest or imprisonment, the whims of a hostile family and the cooperation of a homophobic judge can have devastating effects on the gay couple. The discrimination is pathetically extended even to the children of gay couples, as gay parents are not able to get parenting rights when children are brought into their family, either by birth or through adoption. These are some civil rights issues, which are in no way connected to the nature of marriages. State laws, which provide for the rights of legally married couples, are denied for gay couples.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Gay couples are definitely not accorded equal rights, although the situation is improving and would one day catch up with those accorded to heterosexual couples. One must not forget that African-American marriages were not allowed, till the end of civil war. Until 1967, there were at least 15 states that prohibited interracial marriages. It required a US Supreme Court decision that year to ensure inter-racial marriages throughout the United States (Robinson). Same sex marriages are recent happenings, which were earlier not permitted anywhere in the world. The law is often the deciding factor in the fate of homosexuality like in November 2003 when the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court termed the ban on gay marriage as unconstitutional. Legislators have indeed played an important role in the acceptance of homosexuality and gay marriages. However there is a lot more for them to do. There are many states in the US, which have yet not legalized gay marriages. Apart from US, there are only a few countries that have recognized homosexual relationships. Social acceptance is a major struggle for homosexuality, which however can begin only after its legalization. Given the progress in acceptability of homosexuality till now, it is evident that all constitutions should and one day, would legalize homosexuality. It should be noted here that the European Union had demanded Turkey to form more liberal laws on sex, as a condition for its membership. Once homosexuality and gay marriages are legalized, the law should provide for the rights of gay couples, and for individual partners. Gay couples should be allowed to live peacefully like any other family, raise children and plan for their future. Homophobic attitudes should be better identified and punished when it attempts to hinder the rights of gay couples. Gay couples too have the responsibility to stand up against victimization rather than suffer alone in silence, fearing social stigma. It is rightly appropriate here to mention the fact that Brendan Fay had lodged a complaint against the Polish president for using his marriage images to warn his countrymen against gay marriages. Fay’s marriage to his partner Tom Moulton, and their marriage certificate was shown in his televised address to the nation. Fay said he considered it to be an insult and has complained to the Polish Consulate in New York (Salazar).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The debate on providing equal rights to same-sex couples would go on. The public support for gay couples, would gradually translate to more support for marriage rights. However it is the law, which ultimately dictates on the right to gay marriages. The right of the individual to exercise his choice on his personal matters would ultimately be given to him, to enable him to select the gender of his partner. When South Africa’s highest court recognised same-sex marriages and decided to extend legal marital rights to gay couples, it became the first country to do so in a continent, which condemns homosexuality. It must be noteworthy to mention here that South Africa’s constitution is one of world’s most advanced and progressive constitutions. Constitutional reforms are important for any society to meet its trends and demands. Conservative societies should recognise and be willing to accept newer trends and passions. Just like racist discrimination was ruled out, a new dawn awaits the universal removal of discrimination to gay marriage; a dawn when all gay couples can live happily with all rights and liberties, without any fear or discrimination. â€Å"Although we cannot find that a fundamental right to same-sex marriage exists in this state, the unequal dispensation of rights and benefits to committed same-sex partners can no longer be tolerated under our state constitution,† said New Jersey Supreme Court Justice Barry T. Albin, while offering equal rights to same-sex couples.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Education too has an important role to play in understanding homosexuality. Understanding the demands and options of today’s lifestyle, is very crucial for any individual, and one should have the relevant education to take appropriate decisions. Our traditional educational policies should be revamped with the realities of today. Educators must let people know to what extent the law currently permits one to select the gender of the person he or she wishes to marry. Educators must be prepared to transform individuals as responsible persons capable of loving, marrying and raising a family, irrespective of the gender of the partner he or she would be married to. Recognition of same sex relationships as being equal to traditional marriages would drastically redefine the meaning of family (Knight, 1997). Educational policy makers should realize that they hold a sacred duty of imparting education and social skills incorporating relevance to homosexual society too. As the legalization of homosexuality and gay marriages are slowly but steadily gaining ground, one thing is clear; these steps will always progress in the same direction. Therefore education must also keep up closely in the same direction for the welfare of its beneficiaries.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The legislators have a moral responsibility to provide and ensure proper implementation of the marriage rights of gay couples, as civil and partnership laws cannot provide the same benefits as that of marriage (Johnson, 2007). The educators have a responsibility of not only transforming the society to be receptive of gay marriages, but also ensuring that gay couples succeed in every aspect of life. The society as a whole should not only integrate gay couples into its fold, unconditionally, but also be fully prepared to welcome newer lifestyle changes of tomorrow.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   REFERENCES Don Willmott (2004) The Wedding Banquet [Electronic version]. Retrieved on March 19, 2008 from http://www.filmcritic.com/misc/emporium.nsf/reviews/The-Wedding-Banquet Berardinelli, James (1993) The Wedding Banquet [Electronic version]. Retrieved on March 19, 2008, from http://www.reelviews.net/movies/w/wedding_ban.html Salazar C. New York man files complaint against Polish president for anti-gay marriage speech. International Herald Tribune (19 Mar, 2008) [Electronic version] from http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/19/europe/EU-GEN-Poland-Gay-Rights.php American Psychological Association. Sexuality [Electronic version]. Retrieved on March 19, 2008, from http://www.apa.org/topics/orientation.html#whatcauses   2008 Piazza M.S. Homosexuality and Christianity [Electronic version]. Retrieved on March 20, 2008, from http://www.cathedralofhope.com Robinson B.A, (2008). The Buddhist religion and homosexuality [Electronic version]. Retrieved on March 18, 2008, from http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom_budd.htm Corvino John. Why shouldn’t Tommy and Jim have sex? A defence of homosexuality. Same Sex: Debating the ethics, Science and Culture of Homosexuality, Rowman and Littlefield Publishers. (1997). Bidstrup Scott, (2004). Gay Marriage: The arguments and the motives [Electronic version]. Retrieved on March 18, 2008, from http://www.bidstrup.com/marriage.htm Knight Robert,. How domestic partnerships and Gay marriage threaten the family. Insight bulletin, Family Research Council. (1997) Johnson, Ramon. (2007) Gay marriage around the world. [Electronic version]. Retrieved on March 20, 2008, from http://gaylife.about.com/od/samesexmarriage/a/legalgaymarriag.htm

Persuasive Essay on Astrology

The study of astrology may seem like a world full of mysticism and uncertainty. It is natural to question how someone’s personality traits can be determined by planetary alignments; after all it does seem far-fetched. Astrology and the zodiac are a lot more complex than the average person realizes. Until you take the time to fully research and understand astrology, it’s impossible to get the most accurate zodiac profile.In ancient times, astrology was closely linked to fields such as astronomy, philosophy and medicine. Astrology is a broad topic with deep roots in history that must be broken down in order to fully understand it. The average person is only aware of their sun sign; this is only the beginning of one’s zodiac profile. Each planet in our solar system is representative of a certain aspect of life. In order to get the most precise reading of your zodiac, you have to know which sign was affecting each planet on the date and time you were born. This can b ecome as specific as to what degree the planet is influenced by its respective sign. If you weren’t aware of how in depth a study astrology is, I encourage you to find out.Daily and even monthly horoscopes simply aren’t specific enough. No two people’s zodiac profile is the same (unless you were born on the same day, time and at the same place), so in essence no two people’s horoscope can be the same. Magazines and websites grouping whole zodiac signs into one small group and giving a general horoscope is why there is a drastic decrease in accuracy. You can’t blame people for becoming skeptics because the horoscopes they have been exposed to aren’t the product of â€Å"real† astrology.There are a number of different ways to discover your â€Å"true† zodiac, the easiest of these being through the internet. By simply typing in â€Å"zodiac calculator†, numerous websites will pop up. You want to choose one that requires you r date, time and place of birth. The results you get should be overwhelming, after all there’s a lot that goes into your zodiac. Most websites provide you with a diagram that shows the symbols for each planet and sign as well as how they correspond with each other. You may find you have a lot of the same signs in different planets, a variety of signs in the same planets or a mixture of both.Different websites offer different  explanations. Some are very detailed and not only explain what your sign and planet combination means but also, the â€Å"house† the combination is in. For a beginner who doesn’t know what all that means, I suggest just sticking to the basics, the sign, planet and degree. I can almost guarantee you this will be an enlightening experience. You’ll read something and think to yourself â€Å"oh my god, that’s me!† You may even feel like you’re privacy is being invaded and you’ll question how your zodiac can know so much about you, sometimes more than you know about yourself.I can’t explain how or why the zodiac is valid, but I encourage you to at least give astrology a chance. It will take less than five minutes to enter your information into a website and read the information it gives you. Whether you are a total skeptic of astrology or read horoscopes every now and then out of curiosity you should take the time to learn a little bit more about yourself through astrology.