Pricing and Cost Leadership in Management Accounting Essay

Pricing and Cost Leadership in Management Accounting - Essay Example In the company's situation, I believe that it will be better off pursuing a cost differentiation strategy which will allow it not to compete head-on with Starbucks that is directly on the opposite street. Starbucks is already an established player with an upscale clientele and serving the market through differentiation strategy. However, not all customers can patronize its products because of the high prices. Thus, the coffee outlet can offer specialty coffee products at lower prices which can be afforded by ordinary individuals. In this case, the company should be able to keep costs in check by employing the most efficient processes through the elimination of non-value adding activities. The company can make profit through the expected higher volume as consumers demand more of the products. Identify a small number of areas (between 5-10) of important areas (referred to as critical success factors) for this coffee outlet. A critical success factor is an area in which performance must be at least satisfactory for the business to achieve its mission. The success of the operation of the coffee outlet is dependent on a lot of factors. First, the company should be able to create an appropriate branding strategy which will make it stand out among other competitors. In the specialty coffee industry, branding strategy is very much important even in the mere survival of the business organization because it emphasizes the strength of the company as well as indicates what customers expect. Next, the coffee outlet's brand image should be backed through the delivery of the image. For instance, since the company chooses to offer lowest prices, it should always conduct a market scanning in order to make sure that it is really offering the most competitive price. Another success factor is the outlet's product quality. In a world where customers have become more discriminating have higher bargaining power, it is important that business organizations, ensure that they are offering high quality products. In addition to this, the coffee outlet should align its workforce with its staff. In delivering the intended image and good product quality, the staff should also be educated and adept in offering excellent customer service which will enhance the overall branding strategy of the firm. Service is very much significant to specialty coffee retailers and other players in the hospitality industry. Next, the coffee outlet should also invest in having an atmosphere and ambiance where customers can sit back, relax, and socialize with friends recognizing that most coffee drinkers visit coffee shop in order to get away from the stressful office environment. List different types of information that would be relevant in order to manage this business. Your information requirements can be either accounting or non-financial. The management of the specialty coffee outlet should be based on an extensive and intensive market research which will help the business organization to pinpoint the most profitable market to be served. This will also enable them to tailor their products according

Chinese Schools Essay Example for Free

Chinese Schools Essay Chinese schools have come a long way since the colonial days. Over the years and with the evolution of the national education system, Chinese schools have had to face countless threats to their survival. Despite this, Chinese schools have gained popularity and have enjoyed high enrolments, even among non-Chinese students. It has been reported that at least 10 percent of students studying in Chinese schools come from non-Chinese backgrounds. A number of factors contribute to this growing phenomenon. First, Chinese schoolteachers are well known for their high level of commitment. For this and other reasons, students from Chinese schools often excel in public examinations especially in Science and Mathematics. The other attraction of Chinese schools is that students are required to learn an additional language, Mandarin, which is a highly marketable skill in the job market. Chinese Education: A Historical Perspective The beginnings of Chinese education in Malaysia can be traced to the early nineteenth century. It was recorded that by 1815, there were already three Chinese schools in Malacca. One was founded by the London Missionary Society. With regard to the other two, sociologist Yang Qinghuang suggests that at least one would be a school founded by the Hokkien people. Scholar Zheng Liangshu suggests that some old-type Chinese schools might have existed in the Straits Settlements since the end of the eighteenth century. For a long time, Chinese schools in the Straits Settlements received neither help from the British government nor assistance from the government in China. Despite this, they thrived —funded mainly by clan and dialect associations. When faced with political and financial difficulties at the turn of the twentieth century, the Ching government of China changed its attitude towards overseas Chinese and began to promote Chinese education outside of China. It implemented educational reforms based on a proposal by Zhang Zidong. Following the reforms, the curriculum was revised to include Chinese Classical Literature, History, Geography, Mathematics, Moral Education, Physical Education and other optional subjects like Commerce and Drawing. In Malaya, Chung Hwa Confucian School in Penang not only adopted this new curriculum (it was the first to do so), it went further to include English as a subject. Support from the Ching government, however, was short lived. It ended with the fall of the dynasty. Chinese schools that attempted to run modern educational programmes (with a modern curriculum and incorporating English as a subject) faced enormous challenges. On the one hand, they were constantly in need of more funds. On the other hand, they lacked competent teachers. Furthermore, they had to compete with the more established English schools. Even so, there were five hundred Chinese schools with modern educational programmes established in Malaya and Singapore in 1920. By this time, textbooks for these schools had departed from the classical into the vernacular Chinese language (baihuawen). Because of their impressive growth, the British government decided that it could no longer afford to ignore Chinese schools. On 29 October 1920, it introduced the Regist ration of School Ordinance to restrict the activities of Chinese schools in the Straits Settlements and Federated Malay States by way of registration and inspection. In 1935, control was further tightened: textbooks and teachers from China were prohibited. Only local materials and Malaysian-born teachers were allowed, and activities in Chinese schools came under strict scrutiny. Despite these challenges, Chinese education continued to thrive until it was suspended at the time of the Japanese Occupation of Malaya. After the war, Chinese schools resumed operation. By 1946, their number had ballooned to more than one thousand in Malaya. However, following the Barnes and Fenn-Wu Reports (June 1951) and the Education Ordinance 1952, Chinese education was exclude d from the national education system. The Chinese community rallied to form Jiao Zong (United Chinese School Teachers Association of Malaya, UCSTAM) and Dong Zong (United Chinese School Committees Association of Malaya, UCSCAN) to safeguard Chinese education. The Malayan Chinese Association (MCA) joined in. Its president then, Tun Tan Cheng Lock spoke these memorable lines, †¦Chinese in Malaya †¦ should be given Chinese education †¦ The dialect or mother tongue can be likened to a person’s shadow, and is inseparable from the person himself/herself † (translated from Chinese). Efforts to safeguard Chinese education became even more difficult following the Razak Report in 1956 and the Education Ordinance in 1957. Thereafter, Chinese primary education was officially included in the national education system, classified as standard-type primary schools with Chinese language as the medium of instruction. However, Chinese secondary schools were excluded from the system when the Lower Certificate of Education examination (L. C. E) was introduced in English. This was not in accordance with the promise of fairness to other ethnic languages in the country as specified in the Razak Report. Furthermore, the Chinese community were horrified by the terms of reference in Paragraph 12 of the Razak Report: †¦the ultimate objective of educational policy in this country must be to bring together the children of all races under a national education system in which the national language is the main medium of instruction. Paragraph 12 was subsequently omitted following strong opposition from the Chinese community headed by Jiao Zong. Both the Rahman Talib Report (1961) and the Education Act (1961) reaffirmed the education policy as stated in the Education Ordinance 1957. Since government financial aid was vital to the survival of Chinese secondary schools, more than half of the 41 Chinese secondary schools then had little choice but to ‘convert’ itself into English medium national type secondary schools. On hindsight, many Chinese view this decision as a big mistake. The remaining 14 schools refused to give in, and have remained ‘independent’ to this day. The MCA facilitated this ‘conversion’ as it was satisfied with the verbal promises made by the Education Minister that the government has no intention to exercise its authority granted under the Act to change Chinese primary schools to national schools and that Chinese schools are allowed to allocate one third of their curriculum for learning Mandarin and Chinese literature. † As a consequence of this concession made at the secondary school level, development of Chinese education in Malaysia was restricted thereafter to the primary school level. The New Education Act 1996 posed an even bigger threat. It threw into question the status of national-type schools that were not established under Section 28 of the new Act. In fact, prior to this during the initial stage of implementing the ‘3R system’ (Reading, Writing Arithmetic) in 1980, Chinese schools had already been challenged to forgo their medium of instruction. Materials for learning all subjects except Mandarin were available only in Bahasa Melayu. In response, Dong Jiao Zong and various Chinese guilds and associations submitted a memorandum to voice their opposition to the Ministry of Education in 1981. The schools were given the assurance that the government had no intention of changing the character of Chinese schools. However in the ensuing years, Chinese schools were asked to consider the concept of ‘integrated schools’ (1985) and Vision Schools (proposed in 1995, implemented in 2000), in addition to the latest 2-4-3 resolution that sought to introduce the teaching of Mathematics and Science in English (proposed in 2002, implemented in 2003). Despite these challenges, Chinese schools seek to maintain emphasis on the Five Aspects of Formal Education in Confucianism (Wuyu Jiaoyu) namely, moral (de), intellectual (zhi), physical (ti), social (qun ) and aesthetic ( ei) education. Until today, Chinese schools m continue to value discipline, respect for the elderly, courtesy, personal character and morality, rather than marketable skills such as computer literacy, Mathematics and Science. Some Reflections How does the development of Chinese education affect the church community i Malaysia?n Should we stake our claims to citizenry and defend our right to be educated in our own (mother tongue) language? What about racial integration? Is it possible to promote Chinese education without further polarising the different communities? First, we have a moral basis for defending Chinese education. Being given the choice and having the opportunity to be educated in one’s own language is a universal human right according to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948. Chinese education ha s existed in this country since the nineteenth century. As such, I believe we ought to defend the right of its existence in the same way as we would for the education of other ethnic communities in their own languages. Second, there is value in the Chinese school culture that is worth speaking up for. Even though outsiders might consider the Chinese community uncompromising in its stand with regard to educational issues, it must be pointed out that it is not just about safeguarding the Chinese language but it is also about retaining the ideals of holistic education. Furthermore, Chinese schools have a tradition of nurturing dedicated schoolteachers, and the Christian community should be at the forefront to encourage this culture of service and excellence. In the past, many of them have had to pay a high price for their conviction and dedication by becoming ‘martyrs’: Zhuang Xiquan, Chen Taomin and others were deported for opposing the Registration of School Ordinance 1920; Lim Lian Geok and Yen Yuan Chang were deprived of citizenship in 1961; Lim Huang Sheng and Sim Mow Yu were jailed under the Internal Security Act in 1987. Chinese education aids evangelistic work among the Chinese community. It provides students with a better understanding of the Chinese culture. Whereas in the past, the content of Chinese education was often influenced by traditional beliefs and practices, the Chinese education system today is more open to intellectual discourse on rethinking and repositioning the Chinese identity. The main grouse against Chinese schools is the lack of racial integration since students come from predominantly one ethnic background. The question we must ask is, is this acceptable or healthy in a multi-ethnic society like Malaysia? Most advocates for Chinese education would argue that it is less than ideal but what choice do they have? If national schools were to adopt a more holistic philosophy, and their teachers showed a more credible record in terms of commitment and disciplining of students, and if they provided students with the opportunity to study their own languages, racial integration would be less of an issue and Chinese students would be more evenly distributed between national and Chinese schools. Despite this obvious shortcoming related to racial integration, I still advocate Chinese education for what it offers. Clearly, through its holistic philosophy and track record, it has produced many responsible citizens through the years. Chinese education continues to play a significant role in nation-building and church life in Malaysia. Florence Kuek lectures Mandarin at Universiti Teknologi Mara.

Geoffrey Chaucer: A Near Contemporary of Malory :: Canterbury Tales Literature Essays

Geoffrey Chaucer: A near contemporary of Malory Many websites contain information on the life and works of Geoffrey Chaucer. Most of these websites provide useful information, timelines, and miscellaneous facts about Chaucer. The Geoffrey Chaucer Page is a very helpful website that contains a brief note on Chaucer and provides a timeline of the important events which occurred during Chaucer’s lifetime . A better description of Chaucer and his works is given by Anniina Jokinen’s website, Luminarium . It is an organized source of data on Chaucer’s life and works, and has a medieval yule carol playing on the Chaucer homepage . Columbia’s Electronic Encyclopedia offers a less impressive description of Chaucer, and does not adequately analyze his works . Librarius offers excellent insight on Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales . These four websites offer us a window into the life and works of Geoffrey Chaucer. The luminarium website links to a â€Å"Geoffrey Chaucer† website which is impressive and covers many topics. The homepage has the anonymous medieval yule carol â€Å"Bring a Torch Jeanette, Isabella† playing and offers easy access to the other portions of the site through six labeled links. The creator of the website, Anniina Jokinen, includes her email address and source citation for her music at the bottom of the page along with other useful citation information. Clicking on the â€Å"Quotes† link leads to a page of notable lines from the text of the Canterbury Tales. The actual texts containing these quotations can be found by clicking on the link labeled â€Å"The Works of Geoffrey Chaucer.† The information provided by clicking on these links is broad. The website offers everything from general notes on Chaucer’s literary works, to audio excerpts, and translations of passages (which are difficult to read in the original Middle English). The onl y major flaw of the website is a link that goes to the Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia website for information on Chaucer’s life. The little information provided by the Columbia Encyclopedia website does not stand up to the Luminarium pages. This was a poor choice for an external link on an excellent website < www.luminarium.org>. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia website offers a small, poorly organized description of Chaucer’s life and work.

Economic Factors Essay

The GDP (Gross Domestic Product) or The Gross Domestic Income (GDI) is defined as the gross total market value of all the final . products (goods and services) produced by a country in a given period of time more specifically a calendar year. Gross Domestic Products can also be considered as the sum of all value added at every stage of production of all the final goods and services produced in a country and are always given a money value(kuznets,1932) Since the GDP is a measure of national income and output it is always equal to the total government spending, the total consumer spending and the total investments in a country. It can be calculated using the formula below; Gross Domestic Product= Total Consumption +Gross Investment + Government Spending+ (Exports – Imports) or it ca n be as GDP=C+I+G(X-M) Inflation can be described as the general rise in the level of prices of goods and services in a country over a specific period of time. It is the rise in prices of all goods and services and a rise in the price of one good or service cannot be referred to as inflation. Inflation mostly involves the decrease in value of a countries currency, and measured as a percentage rate of change of prices. This is mostly caused by high rates of money supply in a country without significant increase in the economy. (Kuzneta,1932) There are different factors in a country that are blamed for high rates of inflation in the product markets, these factors sometimes vary from markets to markets and from country to country. The factors are mostly determined and controlled by the level of a country’s performance in the international stock markets and money markets. The factors are as fluctuations in the real demand for goods and services or scarcity of goods and services and sometimes the change in the supply or the real demand for money. These two factors have brought a lot of controversies among the monetarists and Keynesians. The inflation in a country can be easily determined by measuring the different price indices and analyzing how these affects different people, these indices are the consumer price index which is used to measure individual consumer prices and the GDP deflator which measures the price associated with domestic production of goods and services. (kuznets,1932) History and records made shows that the United States has never seriously recorded high level of inflation, as it was in the 1970’s. This was recorded; inflation of the 1970’s was a marked deviation from America’s typical peacetime historical pattern as a hard-money country. We should expect America to continue to be a hard-money–low inflation–country in the future, at least in peacetime. (http://www. j-bradford-delong. net/Econ_Articles/woodstock/woodstock4. html ) The low rate of future inflation that we thus forecast changes the balance of macroeconomic risks and opportunities, the risk of debt-deflation-mediated recessions is somewhat higher because a low trend rate of goods-and-services price index inflation somewhat increases the chances of deflation. But it does not raise such risks as much as one might think. The failure of the Fisher effect to hold empirically means that a low inflation era will in all likelihood is a high real interest rate era. But such high real interest rates do not appear to significantly discourage investment or growth. The burst of inflation that struck the United States in the 1970s shapes much American thought about macroeconomic policy. The decade of the 1970s saw GDP-deflator inflation rates peak at nearly ten percent per year. It saw consumer price inflation rates peak at three or four percent higher. ( Because of the inflation experiences America has had a long war and strong policies to significantly inflation and to increase the GDP, this has been because hampered in the last five years, this has been because of the Iraq invasion five years ago, in economic terms, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan now cost $275 million each and every day. Nearly half a trillion dollars has been spent so far. That’s $4,100 for every household in America. According to a recent Congressional Research Service (CRS) report, the average monthly cost reached $10. 3 billion in 2007, up from $4. 4 billion in 2004. By the end of 2009, the cost of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars could reach $1 trillion. ( http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm) The cost of the war even in a country as wealthy as the United States cannot endure this drain forever. Every dollar spent on the war is a dollar not spent here at home on health care, education, affordable housing, jobs, or repairing the country’s decaying infrastructure. The effects of the war are directly felt here at home. And this is during a so-called economic boom. The war has had a big effect on the US economy(http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm) The official declaration that the country has entered a recession usually doesn’t come until months after it actually begins, as the analysts from the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) look back over the facts and figures. But top economists from major Wall Street firms such as Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs think a tipping point into recession has already been reached. Even the number of unemployment rose sharply in December 2007 to 5. 0 percent, up from the cyclical low of 4. 4 percent in March. Also, the economy slowed dramatically in the fourth quarter of 2007, growing by just 0. 6 percent, with total growth for the year at just 2. 2 percent, the worst figure since 2002. Never in the last 60 years has such a sharp rise in unemployment, combined with such low growth, not led to a recession. (http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm) The housing and credit crisis has begun to spread to the broader economy. Defaults for adjustable rate loans issued in 2007 hit 11. 2 percent in November. This is twice the default rate for 2006. Most worrying is that none of these loans had yet â€Å"re-set† to the higher rate. This represents some 300,000 households, yet more people who will almost certainly lose their homes as a result of this crisis. Spending on new housing projects fell in 2007 by 16. 9 percent, the worst fall in 25 years. And as reported by Reuters, the services sector, which accounts for over two-thirds of U. S. economic activity, fell sharply in January, to levels not seen since the 2001 recession. The Reuters/University of Michigan index of consumer sentiment fell to 69. 6 in February from 78. 4 in January, the lowest reading since February 1992. The index has only been this low during the recessions of the mid 1970s, the early 1980s and the early 1990s. The Institute for Supply Management’s index for the non-manufacturing sector plummeted to 41. 9 from 54. 4 in December: a reading below 50 indicates contraction. The employment index fell to 43. 9 from 51. 8, corroborating the late January U. S. payrolls report, which showed the first net monthly contraction in the labor market in more than four years. While it is impossible to say exactly when or how deep or how long the slump will come, it already feels like it to millions of American workers (. http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm) This has already led to decreasing government revenues, and still Bush proposes a budget that tops $3 trillion for the first time in U. S. history. By Bush’s own estimates, it will lead to deficits of $410 billion in 2008 and $407 billion in 2009, bringing the overall Federal deficit to $5. 9 trillion, up from $3. 3 trillion when he took office. $2. 3 trillion of this debt is held by foreign banks and investors. ( http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm) The proposed American Budget would dramatically increase spending on the military and military aid to â€Å"key allies† around the world, in other words, countries that are actively repressing their own people to defend U. S. corporate interests. To pay for all of this, the government will have to further cut already depleted domestic programs such as Medicare and abolishing dozens of other social services programs. ( http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm ) Not surprisingly, the budget allocates $515 billion to the Defense Department, not including a separate request for billions more for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Adjusted for inflation, this will be the largest military budget since World War II. This is a true â€Å"guns before butter† budget, an open declaration of increased militarism abroad and a further relentless attack on workers here at home. The American ruling class will expect more of the same ruthless cuts from the next Republican or Democrat to sit in the Oval Office. ( http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm) During such hard times for and at appoint in history that America is high in politics and this being an election year there are many people looking for an electoral solution to the serious and growing problems they face. While the Iraq War is still high on voters’ lists of concerns, the economy is now number one for voters of both main parties. Many youth in particular are looking to the Democrats, and especially to Barrack Obama. The Republicans’ almost-certain candidate John McCain has staked his entire political future on continuing the war in Iraq. But do the Democrats’ candidates offer anything even closely approximating the majority of Americans’ demand to bring the troops home now? (http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm) It is at this point in time that we live the whole life and the economic future of America in the sound political policies that will be fronted by the candidates. We believe we can change America. REFFERENCES Bradford DeLong and Etal (1999), America’s Historical Experience with Low Inflation http://www. j-bradford-delong. net/Econ_Articles/woodstock/woodstock4. html http://www. marxist. com/usa/war-economy-elections. htm retrieved on the 2nd June 2008 Kuznets Simon, (1934). â€Å"National Income, 1929-1932†. 73rd US Congress, 2d session, Senate document no. 124, page 7. http://library. bea. gov/u? /NI_reports,539

The Da Vinci Code EPILOGUE

Robert Langdon awoke with a start. He had been dreaming. The bathrobe beside his bed bore the monogram HOTEL RITZ PARIS.He saw a dim light filtering through the blinds. Is it dusk ordawn? he wondered. Langdon's body felt warm and deeply contented. He had slept the better part of the last two days. Sitting up slowly in bed, he now realized what had awoken him†¦ the strangest thought. For day she had been trying to sort through a barrage of information, but now Langdon found himself fixed on something he'd not considered before. Could it be? He remained motionless a long moment. Getting out of bed, he walked to the marble shower. Stepping inside, he let the powerful jets message his shoulders. Still, the thought enthralled him. Impossible. Twenty minutes later, Langdon stepped out of the Hotel Ritz into Place Vendà ´me. Night was falling. The days of sleep had left him disoriented†¦ and yet his mind felt oddly lucid. He had promised himself he would stop in the hotel lobby for a cafe au lait to clear his thoughts, but instead his legs carried him directly out the front door into the gathering Paris night. Walking east on Rue des Petits Champs, Langdon felt a growing excitement. He turned south onto Rue Richelieu, where the air grew sweet with the scent of blossoming jasmine from the stately gardens of the Palais Royal. He continued south until he saw what he was looking for – the famous royal arcade – a glistening expanse of polished black marble. Moving onto it, Langdon scanned the surface beneath his feet. Within seconds, he found what he knew was there – several bronze medallions embedded in the ground in a perfectly straight line. Each disk was five inches in diameter and embossed with the letters N and S. Nord. Sud. He turned due south, letting his eye trace the extended line formed by the medallions. He began moving again, following the trail, watching the pavement as he walked. As he cut across the corner of the Comedie-Franà §aise, another bronze medallion passed beneath his feet. Yes! The streets of Paris, Langdon had learned years ago, were adorned with 135 of these bronze markers, embedded in sidewalks, courtyards, and streets, on a north-south axis across the city. He had once followed the line from Sacre-Coeur, north across the Seine, and finally to the ancient Paris Observatory. There he discovered the significance of the sacred path it traced. The earth's original prime meridian.The first zero longitude of the world.Paris's ancient Rose Line. Now, as Langdon hurried across Rue de Rivoli, he could feel his destination within reach. Less than a block away. The Holy Grail ‘neath ancient Roslin waits. The revelations were coming now in waves. Sauniere's ancient spelling of Roslin†¦ the blade and chalice†¦ the tomb adorned with masters' art. Is that why Sauniere needed to talk with me? Had I unknowingly guessed the truth? He broke into a jog, feeling the Rose Line beneath his feet, guiding him, pulling him toward his destination. As he entered the long tunnel of Passage Richelieu, the hairs on his neck began to bristle with anticipation. He knew that at the end of this tunnel stood the most mysterious of Parisian monuments – conceived and commissioned in the 1980s by the Sphinx himself, Fran;ois Mitterrand, a man rumored to move in secret circles, a man whose final legacy to Paris was a place Langdon had visited only days before. Another lifetime. With a final surge of energy, Langdon burst from the passageway into the familiar courtyard and came to a stop. Breathless, he raised his eyes, slowly, disbelieving, to the glistening structure in front of him. The Louvre Pyramid. Gleaming in the darkness. He admired it only a moment. He was more interested in what lay to his right. Turning, he felt his feet again tracing the invisible path of the ancient Rose Line, carrying him across the courtyard to the Carrousel du Louvre – the enormous circle of grass surrounded by a perimeter of neatly trimmed hedges – once the site of Paris's primeval nature-worshipping festivals†¦ joyous rites to celebrate fertility and the Goddess. Langdon felt as if he were crossing into another world as he stepped over the bushes to the grassy area within. This hallowed ground was now marked by one of the city's most unusual monuments. There in the center, plunging into the earth like a crystal chasm, gaped the giant inverted pyramid of glass that he had seen a few nights ago when he entered the Louvre's subterranean entresol. La Pyramide Inversee. Tremulous, Langdon walked to the edge and peered down into the Louvre's sprawling underground complex, aglow with amber light. His eye was trained not just on the massive inverted pyramid, but on what lay directly beneath it. There, on the floor of the chamber below, stood the tiniest of structures†¦ a structure Langdon had mentioned in his manuscript. Langdon felt himself awaken fully now to the thrill of unthinkable possibility. Raising his eyes again to the Louvre, he sensed the huge wings of the museum enveloping him†¦ hallways that burgeoned with the world's finest art. Da Vinci†¦ Botticelli†¦ Adorned in masters' loving art, She lies. Alive with wonder, he stared once again downward through the glass at the tiny structure below. I must go down there! Stepping out of the circle, he hurried across the courtyard back toward the towering pyramid entrance of the Louvre. The day's last visitors were trickling out of the museum. Pushing through the revolving door, Langdon descended the curved staircase into the pyramid. He could feel the air grow cooler. When he reached the bottom, he entered the long tunnel that stretched beneath the Louvre's courtyard, back toward La Pyramide Inversee. At the end of the tunnel, he emerged into a large chamber. Directly before him, hanging down from above, gleamed the inverted pyramid – a breathtaking V-shaped contour of glass. The Chalice. Langdon's eyes traced its narrowing form downward to its tip, suspended only six feet above the floor. There, directly beneath it, stood the tiny structure. A miniature pyramid. Only three feet tall. The only structure in this colossal complex that had been built on a small scale. Langdon's manuscript, while discussing the Louvre's elaborate collection of goddess art, had made passing note of this modest pyramid. â€Å"The miniature structure itself protrudes up through the flooras though it were the tip of an iceberg – the apex, of an enormous, pyramidical vault, submerged below like a hidden chamber.† Illuminated in the soft lights of the deserted entresol, the two pyramids pointed at one another, their bodies perfectly aligned, their tips almost touching. The Chalice above. The Blade below. The blade and chalice guarding o'er Her gates. Langdon heard Marie Chauvel's words. One day it will dawn on you. He was standing beneath the ancient Rose Line, surrounded by the work of masters. What better place for Sauniere to keep watch? Now at last, he sensed he understood the true meaning of the Grand Master's verse. Raising his eyes to heaven, he gazed upward through the glass to a glorious, star-filled night. She rests at last beneath the starry skies. Like the murmurs of spirits in the darkness, forgotten words echoed. The quest for the Holy Grail is the quest to kneel before the bones of Mary Magdalene. A journey to pray at the feet of the outcast one. With a sudden upwelling of reverence, Robert Langdon fell to his knees. For a moment, he thought he heard a woman's voice†¦ the wisdom of the ages†¦ whispering up from the chasms of the earth.

Deregulation essays

Deregulation essays The article I chose has to with alternative energy sources and deregulation of the industry. The focus of the article is put on a company called PowerLight Corporation in Berkeley, California. This particular $10 million company designs and manufacturers solar electric products. PowerLight Corp. is a very fast growing company over past years and is expected to grow at an even faster rate in years to come. The government in California provides great aid to these alternative energy companies by just about splitting the cost 50/50 with the consumers when alternative energy products are purchased. Since PowerLight Corp. has been around for some time now they are currently offering 20-year warranties on their products. The article then brings up the issue of deregulation in the industry, leaving the reader to draw his or her own conclusions on the possible and somewhat unpredictable effects it may have when implemented. Undoubtedly, energy is a treacherous business. One can enter the market one year, and have tremendous success, and by the same time the year after they could possibly be bankrupt. Many believe deregulation is the answer to the industrys problem, while others believe it is only the answer to the alternative energy market. Alongside the article from Inc. Magazine discussing PowerLight Corp. and deregulation, I feel it is necessary to incorporate more information on deregulation to validify and clarify my assessment. I used very small clips of articles and industry news from the Electric Light The main goal of these regulatory commissions was to create a reasonable rate structure that would be appealing to both producers and consumers. While this system has worked for many years, it has recently come under heavy criticism, with many people pushing...

Mandatory Sentencing essays

Mandatory Sentencing essays Crimes in America are growing each day. There are different reasons to the growing of the crimes committed. One big reason that comes to mind is the fact that some criminals are not receiving enough burdens on their punishment. Repeat offenders are currently playing a big role in the growing of the crimes in America. Maybe the penalties that were given in the past are not enough for the potential criminals decision on not doing a crime. In recent years, various mandatory sentencing laws have faced increasing criticism and numerous political or legal challenges. One of the main complaints for the law is that it is too harsh. Many observers criticize mandatory sentences for forcing judges to impose sentences that are too harsh. Some criminals third strike are said to be nonviolent crimes that critics say does not warrant a mandatory twenty five year sentence. For example, a homeless man who was convicted for attempting to break into a church to steal food in nineteen ninety seven and received a three-strike sentence of twenty five years to life. Critics refer back to this over and over. Some legal analysts also blame three strikes laws and other types of mandatory sentences for clogging the court system. It is said that putting all of these criminals into prison is costly. Critics say that mandatory sentences are not justifiable on the basis of cost- effectiveness. The main reason they argue is because of the high cost of imprisoning people. Americans who disagree with the law say that too much of there tax money goes towards prison cost in which the population is still going to raise. The fact that repeat offenders play a big role in growing of the crime rate grabs the attention of many innocent citizens who only want a civilized society. This affects the citizens because it seems that if a person commits a crime and goes to the county jail or prison, that he or she has learned his or her lesson. That is not...

Learn About the Atlantic Island Territory of Bermuda

Learn About the Atlantic Island Territory of Bermuda Population: 67,837 (July 2010 estimate)Capital: HamiltonLand Area: 21 square miles (54 sq km)Coastline: 64 miles (103 km)Highest Point: Town Hill at 249 feet (76 m) Bermuda is an overseas self-governing territory of the United Kingdom. It is a very small island archipelago located in the northern Atlantic Ocean about 650 miles (1,050 km) off the coast of North Carolina in the United States. Bermuda is the oldest of the British overseas territories and according to the United States Department of State, its largest city, Saint George, is known as the oldest continuously inhabited English-Speaking settlement in the Western Hemisphere. The archipelago is also known for its prosperous economy, tourism and subtropical climate.History of BermudaBermuda was first discovered in 1503 by Juan de Bermudez, a Spanish explorer. The Spanish did not settle the islands, which were uninhabited, at that time because they were surrounded by dangerous coral reefs which made them difficult to reach.In 1609, a ship of British colonists landed on the islands after a shipwreck. They remained there for ten months and sent a variety of reports on the islands back to Engl and. In 1612, the king of England, King James, included what is present-day Bermuda in the Charter of the Virginia Company. Shortly thereafter, 60 British colonists arrived on the islands and founded Saint George.In 1620, Bermuda became a self-governing colony of England after representative government was introduced there. For the rest of the 17th century however, Bermuda was mainly considered an outpost because the islands were so isolated. During this time, its economy was centered on shipbuilding and the trading of salt.The slave trade also grew in Bermuda during the territorys early years but it was outlawed in 1807. By 1834, all slaves in Bermuda were freed. As a result, today, the majority of Bermudas population is descended from Africa.Bermudas first constitution was drafted in 1968 and since then there have been several movements for independence but the islands still remain a British territory today.Government of BermudaBecause Bermuda is a British territory, its governmental s tructure resembles that of British government. It has a parliamentary form of government that is considered a self-governing territory. Its executive branch is made up of a chief of state, Queen Elizabeth II, and a head of government. Bermudas legislative branch is a bicameral Parliament composed of the Senate and the House of Assembly. Its judicial branch is made up of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and Magistrate Courts. Its legal system is also based on English laws and customs. Bermuda is divided into nine parishes (Devonshire, Hamilton, Paget, Pembroke, Saint Georges, Sandys, Smiths, Southampton and Warwick) and two municipalities (Hamilton and Saint George) for local administration.Economics and Land Use in BermudaAlthough small, Bermuda has a very strong economy and the third highest per capita income in the world. As a result, it has a high cost of living and high real estate prices. Bermudas economy is mainly based on financial services for international businesses, luxury tourism and the related services and very l ight manufacturing. Only 20% of Bermudas land is arable, so agriculture does not play a large role in its economy but some of the crops grown there include bananas, vegetables, citrus and flowers. Dairy products and honey are also produced in Bermuda.Geography and Climate of BermudaBermuda is an island archipelago located in the northern Atlantic Ocean. The closest large landmass to the islands is the United States, specifically, Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. It consists of seven main islands and hundreds of small islands and islets. The seven main islands of Bermuda are clustered together and are connected via bridges. This area is called the Island of Bermuda.Bermudas topography consists of low hills that are separated by depressions. These depressions are very fertile and they are where the majority of Bermudas agriculture takes place. The highest point on Bermuda is Town Hill at just 249 feet (76 m). The smaller islands of Bermuda are mainly coral islands (about 138 of them). Bermuda has no natura l rivers or freshwater lakes. The climate of Bermuda is considered subtropical and it is mild most of the year. It can be humid at times however and it receives abundant rainfall. Strong winds are common during Bermudas winters and it is prone to hurricanes from June to November because of its position in the Atlantic along the Gulf Stream. Because the islands of Bermuda are so small however, direct landfall of hurricanes is rare. Bermudas most damaging hurricane to date was the category 3 Hurricane Fabian which hit in September 2003. Most recently, in September 2010, Hurricane Igor moved toward the islands.More Facts about Bermuda The average cost of a home in Bermuda exceeded $1,000,000 by the mid-2000s. Bermudas main natural resource is limestone which is used for building. Bermudas official language is English.ReferencesCentral Intelligence Agency. (19 August 2010). CIA - The World Factbook - Bermuda. Retrieved from: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/bd.htmlInfoplease.com. (n.d.). Bermuda: History, Geography, Government, and Culture- Infoplease.com. Retrieved from: infoplease.com/ipa/A0108106.html#axzz0zu00uqsbUnited States Department of State. (19 April 2010). Bermuda. Retrieved from: state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5375.htmWikipedia.com. (18 September 2010). Bermuda - Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bermuda

Clinical Services Manager Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Clinical Services Manager - Essay Example As the report discusses it is best to get in touch with the training institute that the mental health unit usually associates itself with. In addition, it would be a good preparation to considering house training, instead of sending the trainees to an institute. For the hiring purpose, a market analysis that estimates the cost-to-company for two E grades would be the right approach. Based on the inputs of all these exercises, a total cost plan should be submitted in front of the Accountant and the Clinical Services Manager. A clear break–up of the cost plan can help John convince them in the most effective manner.From this essay it is clear that planning timelines and a proper schedule will also help John in implementing all the changes in a smooth manner. Once the funding is approved, John can use this plan to prioritize and schedule. The authorities can also use this plan and see if the implementation can go as per the timelines. One thing that John should keep in mind while making timelines is that accurate date ranges should be mentioned. Also, it would be good to keep an option of flexibility so that any changes due to unforeseen or unexpected circumstances can be accommodated into the plan. Therefore, instead of keeping a very tight schedule that can go awry in difficult situations, it is recommended that he creates a flexible dateline with some extra days accounted so that the implementation can happen within the schedule decided. Â  

Nursing Informatics Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Nursing Informatics - Term Paper Example Understanding and identifying such challenges is the first requirement in order to find solutions to the problems faced by the nursing informatics today. RECENT TRENDS IN NURSING INFORMATICS INTRODUCTION A very interesting fact about health informatics is its smooth and rapid integration in the health care systems of the world. Now, advanced health care facilities cannot even bear to think running their services without computerized equipment at their disposal (Caraway, 2008). They have valid reasons, for computers and informatics systems have made processing and handling patients much quicker and efficient. Nurses in many ways can be considered as the pioneers in adopting such technologies within their services. This is the sole reason why nursing informatics is an important feature of the nursing curriculum (Caraway, 2008). Informatics is defined as the science of â€Å"representation, processing and communication of information in natural and artificial systems† (Fourman, 2 003), where as in health care it would be defined as â€Å"a discipline focused on the acquisition, storage and use of information in a specific setting or domain† (Hersh, 2009). So how are nurses using these technologies in their daily healthcare provision? Firstly they are using informatics as an analyzing tool, and with that they are better able to choose, implement and evaluate the information gathered and create better care systems. Such systems are also now widely being used to provide information and education to the staff (Caraway, 2008). This trend has given a boost to the already implemented evidence based health care provision, by keeping nurses up to date about the most recent researches and clinical studies. It is therefore, easier for nurses to advance themselves as they move forward in their career (Caraway, 2008). WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW? The current trends are very much the continuation of the efforts of the past. With the understanding of the potential impact of informatics in medicine and health care delivery, there is emphasis to explore new areas and integrate this new technology deeper (Kampov-Polivoi, 2010, Jensen, Meyer and Sternberger, 2009). this reflects itself in the number of programs that have evolved related to informatics not only in nursing but in other medical areas as well. the technical advancement of these programs is reflected in the high number of such programs delivered online for studying (Kampov-Polivoi, 2010). Nursing informatics is based on three principles, which include data, information and knowledge. Utilizing these three principles has been able to provide one of the best methods applicable in evidence based nursing and medicine (Kaminski, 2010). This is why the evolution of the current nursing informatics programs has been made from bachelor levels to master levels. These developments in the academic areas indicate that informatics in all of its forms are becoming an essential subject to be learnt for futu re health care systems (Kampov-Polevoi, 2010). The integration of this system may be able to help reduce the work load that is presented to the current nurses. Currently, there is a gradual shortage of nursing staff across the globe due to the most demanding and time consuming work nurses do (Kaminski, 2010). The introduction of information technology in nursing may be able to reduce the burden of such long hours, and may even entice fresh graduates into taking up nursing as a profession (Kaminski, 2010). Currently there are three

Managing Financial Resources Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Managing Financial Resources - Assignment Example Usually, the concept of opportunity cost is not recorded in the books of accounts. Then also it is a significant factor in the decision-making process also. Decision making is the fundamental nature of the management of an entity. It is necessary to collect, analyze and present the accounting information in an appropriate manner to meet the requirements of various interested groups. Stakeholders of the company mean those groups of persons who are interested in the organizational functions and affairs. The stakeholders of the company mean the shareholders, lenders, employees, suppliers, customers, competitors, Government as well as the public as a whole. Moreover, the balance sheet of a company is giving focus on the changes that have taken place in the accounting year. The ultimate object of financial statements is that of evaluating the financial strength and weaknesses of the firm.Capital budgeting means planning for capital assets. The decision about capital budgeting means a deci sion as to whether or not the money should be invested in long term projects. The term budget is a device which helps the management in planning and control of business activities. It is a statement relating to future plans. Budget is essential for business because it provides management with a plan of operation to be followed during a specified future period. Not only this but also it is possible to plan and control the income and expenses. A business might have a cash budget, sales budget, purchase budget, etc.The concept of variance analysis is an important concept in standard costing. Variance means the difference between actual cost and standard cost. Variance point out to the management that whether the costs are under their control or beyond? It may be either favorable or not. If the actual cost is less than the standard, the difference indicates that there is a positive variance, but reverse on the other hand. Variance analysis is the procedure of evaluating variances by sub dividing the total variances in such a way that the management can assign responsibility for poor performance. Generally, the variances may be of cost variance and sales variance. Among them, the cost variance is significant and which may be of three types, material variance, labor variance, and overhead variance.  

Presentism and Human Sacrifice in the Aztec Empire Essay

Presentism and Human Sacrifice in the Aztec Empire - Essay Example Among many other distinguishing features, the practice of human sacrifice is a custom that the Aztecs are known for. The sacrifices, which were made for ritualistic and religious purposes have assumed centrality in many contemporary academic debates. It is thus pertinent to discuss and analyze whether it is indeed accurate to judge the practices of the Mesoamerican period using the parameters of contemporary moralities. In Discovering the Global Past, the authors Wiesner, Wheeler, Doeringer and Curtis seek to study the Aztec culture from the perspective of the European colonizers as well as those of the indigenous Aztec people. The historical and ethnographic accounts of Bernardino de Sahagun are particularly important in this regard. In the section titled ‘Aztec accounts of temples, palaces, and games related to Bernadino de Sahagun’, the work shows how the Aztec ritual of human sacrifice had a complex logic of its own, and was not a practice of meaningless violence as it is often portrayed to be (Wiesner). The Aztecs believed that human life was sustained by a continuous sacrifice made by the gods. They used the term tonacayotl for this purpose, which roughly translates into ‘the necessary spiritual bodily sacrifice’ on earth. ... Sahagun’s accounts show that the lofty temple-pyramids of the Aztecs served as the site for these sacrifices. Unbiased historical research has also shown that it is incorrect to assume that the only the common folk were victimized as a result of this practice. Such a claim can be refuted at many levels, the primary being the fact that slaves in the Aztec empire, who constituted the majority of those who were offered for sacrifice, were not determined by birth. Rather, they could be people from any social rank who had committed anything unlawful. In fact, there is evidence to believe that the people embraced and incorporated the custom in their lives quite willingly. Historical accounts also how that the Aztec rulers sacrificed their own blood to ensure the well-being of their subjects. The six parts to each chapter in Discovering the Global Past reflect an attempt to consider multifarious historical events and periods in a systematic, pedagogic manner. There is also a thorough investigation of the root causes of the cultural bias which has become an almost intrinsic part of most models of historical study regarding the Native American civilizations. Most of the colonial accounts of the Aztec empire were formulated during the years of the siege of Tenochtitlan by the Spaniards under the leadership of  Hernan Cortes. Perhaps it can be argued that the racism of the European colonizers, triggered by religious orthodoxy, was the first governing cause which shaped the colonial impulse. The flawed academic approach of presentism, too, can be attributed to certain kind of racism, and an inability to understand or appreciate other cultures. Presentism which labeled the Aztec ritual of human sacrifices as inhuman and barbaric

Climate change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Climate change - Essay Example e glacial formation, which results into movements of the tectonic plates, overwarming and shifting of the ocean beaches and levels (Wlicock, & Hudson 17). A number of catastrophic events have continued to occur because of the climate changes causing devastating damages in properties and lives across the world. These include the Katrina, the earthquakes in different parts of the world, the tsunamis along the beaches of Asian continent and among other events (Wlicock, & Hudson 17). These events have created an urgent need for different world bodies to develop frameworks to mitigate on the causes and develop approaches that can reduce its impacts across the globe. A number of protocols have been ratified by different conventions and most of these are geared towards pushing countries into adopting safe practices that reduces climate change. In this paper, the topic of climate change will be critically evaluated to develop a proper basis of the causes, the impacts and mitigation measures adopted across the world. The paper will also discuss the conventions ratified among them the Kyoto Protocol among others that have aimed to reduce the im pacts of climate change (Scafetta 6). Climate scientists as the major causes of climate change have advanced a number of activities and most of these events are attributed to carefree human activities. On s superficial analysis, climate change can be seen as a situation caused by increased solar energy and radiations from the sun reaching the biosphere and earth surface (Wlicock, & Hudson 17). The movement of such solar energy is dispersed across the globe by oceanic currents, monsoon winds among other means. Climate change causes have been categorized into two classes with the major contributing class being the human causes. The other category of climate change that has remained relatively above human control is the natural causes, mostly resulting from long lasting human activities (Wlicock, & Hudson 19). Greenhouse gas remains

Personal Statement and Critical Reflection on Past Work Experience Essay - 1

Personal Statement and Critical Reflection on Past Work Experience - Essay Example This reporter declares that "as I look for a new, challenging position, I intend to use the existing experience and skills in tackling new challenges as well as improving my professional and personal development. Two of my strongest attributes that have shaped me into the person I am includes; determination and the ability to have a continuous self assessment and evaluation of my strength and weaknesses. This helps me to device ways of improving my weaknesses and strengthening my strengths. For an individual to be capable of facing new challenges, I have a strong belief that, he/she should first conduct self realization and assessment. Anita asserts that self realization is a crucial tool that helps one in self development and achievement of one’s goals and objectives in life. This realization through assessment and evaluation enables one to realize his/her strengths, weaknesses, capabilities and self potential. This tool has enabled me in formulating the efficient and informe d strategies in improving my weaknesses and strengthening my strengths. It has also enabled me devise measures to use in monitoring my improvements. Self awareness has enabled me to understand strengths and weaknesses. My strengths include; possession of exemplary interpersonal skills, persistence, consistency, determination, a teamwork spirit, just to mention but a few. Behind all the glitter, there lie some elements of weaknesses that includes; procrastination, being a perfectionist and lack of ability to follow schedules to the latter."

Climate change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Climate change - Essay Example e glacial formation, which results into movements of the tectonic plates, overwarming and shifting of the ocean beaches and levels (Wlicock, & Hudson 17). A number of catastrophic events have continued to occur because of the climate changes causing devastating damages in properties and lives across the world. These include the Katrina, the earthquakes in different parts of the world, the tsunamis along the beaches of Asian continent and among other events (Wlicock, & Hudson 17). These events have created an urgent need for different world bodies to develop frameworks to mitigate on the causes and develop approaches that can reduce its impacts across the globe. A number of protocols have been ratified by different conventions and most of these are geared towards pushing countries into adopting safe practices that reduces climate change. In this paper, the topic of climate change will be critically evaluated to develop a proper basis of the causes, the impacts and mitigation measures adopted across the world. The paper will also discuss the conventions ratified among them the Kyoto Protocol among others that have aimed to reduce the im pacts of climate change (Scafetta 6). Climate scientists as the major causes of climate change have advanced a number of activities and most of these events are attributed to carefree human activities. On s superficial analysis, climate change can be seen as a situation caused by increased solar energy and radiations from the sun reaching the biosphere and earth surface (Wlicock, & Hudson 17). The movement of such solar energy is dispersed across the globe by oceanic currents, monsoon winds among other means. Climate change causes have been categorized into two classes with the major contributing class being the human causes. The other category of climate change that has remained relatively above human control is the natural causes, mostly resulting from long lasting human activities (Wlicock, & Hudson 19). Greenhouse gas remains

Compare and Contrast Various Ethical and Leadership Theories Essay

Compare and Contrast Various Ethical and Leadership Theories - Essay Example Merrian-Webster, defined crime behaviour as â€Å"an act that is forbidden or omission of a duty that is commanded by public law and that makes the offender liable to punishment by that law.† This indicates that when the police, courts and corrections all work together the system itself works well. The main element of the criminal justice system in the U.S is that of the jury system which is seen to be unique compared to other jury systems. Originally the jury system was made that the result of the verdict being guilty or not guilty would fall on one person’s shoulders but on a group of people. However, this did not occur. The system works that ten people have to agree or disagree if a person is guilty or not guilty. The job of the courts is to show the jury a satisfactory amount of evidence, this is to try and make sure that no-one is wrongly sentenced. The selection of the jury is acquired so strictly it is deemed to show that no-one would favour anyone that is being trialled. In the American criminal justice system today there is an emphasize on equal rights, this is seen to be because a procedure has been put in place. This procedure is meant to be impartial and equal for every person. However a number of statistical reports show that there are still a number of concerns related to discrimination and disparity. Both discrimination and disparity have different meanings and the best way to understand and define them is categorizing them separately. The meaning of Discrimination is described by Microsoft Encarta Dictionary (2007) as â€Å"treating people different through prejudice: unfair treatment of one person or group, usually because of prejudice about race, ethnicity, age, religion, or gender.† Disparity is described by Microsoft Encarta Dictionary (2007) as â€Å"a lack of equality between people or things.† Disparity in the criminal justice system is usually related to ethnicity or race. The issue that arises when it comes t o a race related problem because it can also be seen as discrimination. David Cole wrote, "our criminal justice system affirmatively depends on inequality." Cole made this vital statement due to the fact, class and race has been causing a concern in the criminal system for a number of years. American criminal justice is said to be blind. However over a long period of time there has been a large amount of inequalities this is because of social class, racial and economic differences. "Absent race and class disparities, the privileged among us could not enjoy as much constitutional protection of our liberties" The case of Gideon v. Wainwright can be used to illustrate this point. This case showed that justice is not evenly awarded if the conditions in which it follows are not reasonable to begin with. In the case Gideon could not afford a lawyer after he was charged with a crime, because this would have been Gideon’s fifth offence the punishment was severe. Gideon requested to t he courts for a lawyer however the request was denied. After Gideon was sentenced to five years imprisonment, he appealed to the Supreme Court against the State of Florida pointing out that during the case he was not given the correct rights and the Constitution’s sixth amendment was not followed correctly. Gideon v. Wainwright case was a breakthrough because it gave defendants more rights and it increased the services and time that that was

Life Philosophy Essay Example for Free

Life Philosophy Essay The meaning of life is to give life meaning Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. Life Philosophy of John Wooden Even a fool knows you cant reach the stars, but that doesnt stop a wise man from trying. You cant make someone Elses choices. You shouldnt let someone else make yours. Life Philosophy of Gen. Colin Powell Man is not the creature of circumstances, circumstances are the creatures of men. We are free agents, and man is more powerful than matter. Life Philosophy of Benjamin Disraeli When an affliction happens to you, you either let it defeat you, or you defeat it Life Philosophy of Rosalind Russell A life lived in fear is a life half lived. To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong. It is better to be hated for what you are then to be loved for what your not There are always two choices. Two paths to take. One is easy. And its only reward is that its easy. Positive thinking will let you do everything better than negative thinking will. Life Philosophy of Zig Ziglar You will never achieve what you never begin The measure of a man is the way he bears up under misfortune. Dont wait for your ship to come in, swim out to it. Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore. Philosophy of Life by Andre Gide If one seeks advice, give them direction, not correction. Sooner or later, those who win are those who think they can. Philosophy of Life by Richard Bach Do the things you know, and you shall learn the truth you need to know. Philosophy of Life by George Macdonald Let us not be content to wait and see what will happen, but give us the determination to make the right things happen. Philosophy of Life by Peter Marshall It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation. Dont take life too seriously. no one gets out alive, anyways. Before you talk about what you want appreciate what you have. A man either lives life as it happens to him, meets it head-on and licks it, or he turns his back on it and starts to wither away. Life Philosophy from Gene Roddenberry You see, in life, lots of people know what to do, but few people actually do what they know. Knowing is not enough! You must take action. Life Philosophy from Anthony Robbins If you believe you can, you probably can. If you believe you wont, you most assuredly wont. Belief is the ignition switch that gets you off the launching pad. Life Philosophy from Denis Waitley You can do what you think you can do and you cannot do what you think you cannot Life Philosophy from Ben Stein Find something you love to do and youll never have to work a day in your life. Life Philosophy from Harvey Mackay You can do what you want to do. You can be what you want to be. Life Philosophy from R. David Thomas Philosophies in Life PHILOSOPHY may be defined as the study and pursuit of facts which deal with the ultimate reality or causes of things as they affect life. The philosophy of a country like the Philippines is made up of the intricate and composite interrelationship of the life histories of its people; in other word, the philosophy of our nation would be strange and undefinable if we do not delve into the past tied up with the notable life experiences of the representative personalities of our nation. Being one of the prominent representatives of Filipino personalities, Jose Rizal is a fit subject whose life philosophy deserves to be recognized. Having been a victim of Spanish brutality early in his life in Calamba, Rizal had thus already formed the nucleus of an unfavorable opinion of Castillian imperialistic administration of his country and people. Pitiful social conditions existed in the Philippines as late as three centuries after his conquest in Spain, with agriculture, commerce, communications and education languishing under its most backward state. It was because of this social malady that social evils like inferiority complex, cowardice, timidity and false pride pervaded nationally and contributed to the decay of social life. This stimulated and shaped Rizal’s life phylosophy to be to contain if not eliminate these social ills. Educational Philosophy Rizal’s concept of the importance of education is clearly enunciated in his work entitled Instruction wherein he sought improvements in the schools and in the methods of teaching. He maintained that the backwardness of his country during the Spanish ear was not due to the Filipinos’ indifference, apathy or indolence as claimed by the rulers, but to the neglect of the Spanish authorities in the islands. For Rizal, the mission of education is to elevate the country to the highest seat of glory and to develop the people’s mentality. Since education is the foundation of society and a prerequisite for social progress, Rizal claimed that only through education could the country be saved from domination. Rizal’s philosophy of education, therefore, centers on the provision of proper motivation in order to bolster the great social forces that make education a success, to create in the youth an innate desire to cultivate his intelligence and give him life eternal. Religious Philosophy Rizal grew up nurtured by a closely-knit Catholic family, was educated in the foremost Catholic schools of the period in the elementary, secondary and college levels; logically, therefore, he should have been a propagator of strictly Catholic traditions. However, in later life, he developed a life philosophy of a different nature, a philosophy of a different Catholic practice intermingled with the use of Truth and Reason. Why the change? It could have been the result of contemporary contact, companionship, observation, research and the possession of an independent spirit. Being a critical observer, a profound thinker and a zealous reformer, Rizal did not agree with the prevailing Christian propagation of the Faith by fire and sword. This is shown in his Annotation of Morga’s Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas. Rizal did not believe in the Catholic dogma that salvation was only for Catholics and that outside Christianity, salvation was not possible even if Catholics composed only a small minority of the world’s religious groups. Nor did he believe in the Catholic observation of fasting as a sacrifice, nor in the sale of such religious items as the cross, medals, rosaries and the like in order to propagate the Faith and raise church funds. He also lambasted the superstitious beliefs propagated by the priests in the church and in the schools. All of these and a lot more are evidences of Rizal’s religious philosophy. Political Philosophy In Rizal’s political view, a conquered country like the Philippines should not be taken advantage of but rather should be developed, civilized, educated and trained in the science of self-government. He bitterly assailed and criticized in publications the apparent backwardness of the Spanish ruler’s method of governing the country which resulted in: 1. the bondage and slavery of the conquered ; 2. the Spanish government’s requirement of forced labor and force military service upon the n natives; 3. the abuse of power by means of exploitation; 4. the government ruling that any complaint against the authorities was criminal; and 5. Making the people ignorant, destitute and fanatic, thus discouraging the formation of a national sentiment. Rizal’s guiding political philosophy proved to be the study and application of reforms, the extension of human rights, the training for self government and the arousing of spirit of discontent over oppression, brutality, inhumanity, sensitiveness and self love. Ethical Philosophy The study of human behavior as to whether it is good or bad or whether it is right or wrong is that science upon which Rizal’s ethical philosophy was based. The fact that the Philippines was under Spanish domination during Rizal’s time led him to subordinate his philosophy to moral problems. This trend was much more needed at that time because the Spaniards and the Filipinos had different and sometimes conflicting morals. The moral status of the Philippines during this period was one with a lack of freedom, one with predominance of foreign masters, one with an imposition of foreign religious worship, devotion, homage and racial habits. This led to moral confusion among the people, what with justice being stifled, limited or curtailed and the people not enjoying any individual rights. To bolster his ethical philosophy, Dr. Rizal had recognized not only the forces of good and evil, but also the tendencies towards good and evil. As a result, he made use of the practical method of appealing to the better nature of the conquerors and of offering useful methods of solving the moral problems of the conquered. To support his ethical philosophy in life, Rizal: 1. censured the friars for abusing the advantage of their position as spiritual leaders and the ignorance and fanaticism of the natives; 2.counseled the Filipinos not to resent a defect attributed to them but to accept same as reasonable and just; 3. advised the masses that the object of marriage was the happiness and love of the couple and not financial gain; 4. censured the priests who preached greed and wrong morality; and 5. advised every one that love and respect for parents must be strictly observed. Social Philosophy That body of knowledge relating to society including the wisdom which mans experience in society has taught him is social philosophy. The facts dealt with are principles involved in nation building and not individual social problems. The subject matter of this social philosophy covers the problems of the whole race, with every problem having a distinct solution to bolster the people’s social knowledge. Rizal’s social philosophy dealt with; 1. man in society; 2. influential factors in human life; 3. racial problems; 4. social constant; 5. social justice; 6. social ideal; 7. poverty and wealth; 8. reforms; 9. youth and greatness; 10. history and progress; 11. future Philippines. The above dealt with man’s evolution and his environment, explaining for the most part human behavior and capacities like his will to live; his desire to possess happiness; the change of his mentality; the role of virtuous women in the guidance of great men; the need for elevating and inspiring mission; the duties and dictates of man’s conscience; man’s need of practicing gratitude; the necessity for consulting reliable people; his need for experience; his ability to deny; the importance of deliberation; the voluntary offer of man’s abilities and possibilities; the ability to think, aspire and strive to rise; and the proper use of hearth, brain and spirit-all of these combining to enhance the intricacies, beauty and values of human nature. All of the above served as Rizal’s guide in his continuous effort to make over his beloved Philippines.

Jonathan Swifts Essay, A Modest Proposal -- Jonathan Swift A Modest P

Jonathan Swift's Essay, "A Modest Proposal" Jonathan Swift in his essay, "A Modest Proposal" suggests a unique solution to the problem concerning poor children in Ireland. Swift uses several analytical techniques like statistics, induction, and testimony to persuade his readers. His idea is admirable because he suggests that instead of putting money into the problem, one can make money from the problem. However, his proposal is inhumane. Swift wrote his proposal for those that were tired of looking at poor children of Ireland. He starts out explaining the situation in Ireland regarding single poor mothers that have three to six children and cannot afford to feed or clothe them. The children of the poor are a burden and a disgrace for Ireland. He suggests that a certain number of the kids be set aside for breeding and the rest be auctioned off for consumption when they reach a year old. Swift backs his proposal with six key points. One, there will be a reduction of "papists" in the country. Two, the poor will have some valuable assets to help them with their economic needs. Three, the new goods will burst economy. Four, the parent/s will gain money and will not have to support their children year after year. Five, "would bring great custom to taverns." Six, there would be a greater incentive to marry and better child rearing practices. Swift uses statistical information to back up his proposal. He claims that there are about "200,000 couple whose wives are breeders; ...

Proof Of The Exsistence of God :: essays research papers

Proof Of The Exsistence of God Either God exists or He doesn't. There is no middle ground. Any attempt to remain neutral in relation to God's existence is automatically synonymous with unbelief. It is far from a "moot" question, for if God does exist, then nothing else really matters; if He does not exist, then nothing really matters at all. If He does exist, then there is an eternal heaven to be gained (Hebrews 11:16) and an eternal Hell to be avoided (Revelation 21:8). The question for God's existence is an extremely important one. One might wonder why it is necessary to present evidence for the existence of God. As Edward Thomson so beautifully stated it: "...the doctrine of the one living and true God, Creator, Preserver, and Benefactor of the universe, as it solves so many problems, resolves so many doubts, banishes so many fears, inspires so many hopes, gives such sublimity to all things, and such spring to all noble powers, we might presume would, as soon as it was announced, be received by e very healthy mind." Some, however, contrary to their higher interests, have refused to have God in their knowledge and thus have become vain in their reasonings and foolish in their philosophy (Romans 1:21,22,28). They do not see the folly (Psalm 14:1) of saying there is no God. The Christian has not only the obligation to "give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you..." (I Peter 3:15), but an obligation to carry the Gospel message to a lost and dying world (Mark 16:15-16, et al.). There will be times when carrying the Gospel message to the world will entail setting forth the case for the existence of God. In addition, we need to remember that Christians are not agnostics. The agnostic is the person who says that God's existence is unknowable. As difficult as it is to believe, some Christians take that same stance in regard to God's existence. They assert that they "believe" there is a God, but that they cannot know i t. They state that God's existence cannot be proved. `This is false!' God's existence is both `knowable' and `provable.' Acceptance of God's existence is not some "blind leap into the dark" as so many have erroneously asserted. The Christian's faith is not a purely emotional, subjective "leap," but instead is a `firm conviction' regarding facts based upon reasonable evidence. Proof Of The Exsistence of God :: essays research papers Proof Of The Exsistence of God Either God exists or He doesn't. There is no middle ground. Any attempt to remain neutral in relation to God's existence is automatically synonymous with unbelief. It is far from a "moot" question, for if God does exist, then nothing else really matters; if He does not exist, then nothing really matters at all. If He does exist, then there is an eternal heaven to be gained (Hebrews 11:16) and an eternal Hell to be avoided (Revelation 21:8). The question for God's existence is an extremely important one. One might wonder why it is necessary to present evidence for the existence of God. As Edward Thomson so beautifully stated it: "...the doctrine of the one living and true God, Creator, Preserver, and Benefactor of the universe, as it solves so many problems, resolves so many doubts, banishes so many fears, inspires so many hopes, gives such sublimity to all things, and such spring to all noble powers, we might presume would, as soon as it was announced, be received by e very healthy mind." Some, however, contrary to their higher interests, have refused to have God in their knowledge and thus have become vain in their reasonings and foolish in their philosophy (Romans 1:21,22,28). They do not see the folly (Psalm 14:1) of saying there is no God. The Christian has not only the obligation to "give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you..." (I Peter 3:15), but an obligation to carry the Gospel message to a lost and dying world (Mark 16:15-16, et al.). There will be times when carrying the Gospel message to the world will entail setting forth the case for the existence of God. In addition, we need to remember that Christians are not agnostics. The agnostic is the person who says that God's existence is unknowable. As difficult as it is to believe, some Christians take that same stance in regard to God's existence. They assert that they "believe" there is a God, but that they cannot know i t. They state that God's existence cannot be proved. `This is false!' God's existence is both `knowable' and `provable.' Acceptance of God's existence is not some "blind leap into the dark" as so many have erroneously asserted. The Christian's faith is not a purely emotional, subjective "leap," but instead is a `firm conviction' regarding facts based upon reasonable evidence.

How consistent was British policy towards Ireland from 1798-1921? Essay

Throughout the period, British policy towards Ireland did have considerable variations. There was a range from incredibly coercive measures to a more conciliatory approach, and this variation spread across several key areas; Law and Order in Ireland, the Religious question, Economic policy and finally maintenance of the Union itself. Although there can be no doubt that throughout the period, British policy was consistent in its principles – that it aimed to keep Ireland within the Union – the policies themselves were not; the ways that successive governments went about upholding this basic principle differed substantially, and therefore over the whole period, British policy towards Ireland was not very consistent. In terms of Law and Order in Ireland, throughout the period there was a limited amount of consistency in British policy; over the whole period the problem of Ireland’s Law and Order was addressed through a mixture of coercion and reform, with the intention of keeping Ireland close to Britain. Coercion as a method was evident throughout – from the suppression of Wolfe Tone’s rising in 1798 through to the violent response to the 1916 Easter uprising – in both cases the British Government reacted with violence and the leaders of the rebellions were arrested and executed. During the period of Sir Robert Peel’s premiership, coercion formed a key part of his policy towards Ireland. Measures such as the Arms Act, which prevented Catholics from carrying arms, and his drafting of troops into Ireland, were clearly coercive. Gladstone too used coercion to a certain extent; in 1881 he introduced the Protection of Person and Property Act which allowed persons to be imprisoned without trial. Moreover, there were substantial inconsistencies in the use of coercion itself – in the treatment of the Irish and Ulster nationalists – with officers refusing to stop the UVF from obtaining guns in March 1914 at the Curragh Mutiny, yet came down on the Catholics’ plans to obtain weapons at Howth later the same year. However, throughout the period there was also a reformist attitude towards Ireland. Peel’s introduction of the Royal Irish Constabulary was effectively the first police force and it aimed to keep peace in Ireland. Furthermore, in his ‘plan of conciliation’ in the 1840s a number of concessions were made towards Ireland in an attempt to resolve the problems with violence by appeasing the Irish to a certain extent – measures such as replacing lord de Gray with He ytesbury as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in 1844 – de Gray had been reluctant to promote equal opportunities for Catholics and the introduction of Heytesbury was intended to stem the growth of violent opposition in Ireland. Gladstone too used a ‘plan of pacification’ to resolve disputes. However, there were some quite considerable inconsistencies. The Kilmainham treaty in 1882 is one such example – the negotiations between Parnell and Gladstone, and Parnell agreeing to use his influence in Ireland to sort out the law and order problem that had arisen from the Land Wars was something that was not seen at all throughout the period – indeed Sir Robert Peel took the opposite approach with Daniel O’Connell and no negotiations between the two took place. Throughout the period, although there was some consistency in that overall the two methods of Coercion and reform were used, they appeared to be instigated rather pragmatically and this can be seen as inconsistent policy. The approach of various governments towards religion in Ireland was certainly rather inconsistent. At the beginning of the period, when Pitt proposed the Act of Union, Catholic emancipation was proposed along with it, initially showing a rather open approach to solving the ‘Catholic question’. However, it was removed from the final version of the Act, leaving the religious issue unaddressed for the next 30 years and Catholics still with inferior rights in Ireland. Peel’s approach to Catholic emancipation was clearly reluctant, and when it was passed in 1829 along with it was a considerable reduction of the franchise, again showing a hostile approach. However, this was turned around by Peel’s last ministry in the 1840s – the granting of several key reforms such as the Maynooth grant in 1845 and the Irish colleges Bill of the same year show that Peel himself was inconsistent in his religious policy towards Ireland. Ultimately there was a complete turnaround made by Gladstone in 1869 when he disestablished the Church of Ireland, and enabled Church property to be sold to tenants. This illustrates considerable inconsistency in British policy towards Ireland – from considerable hostility towards Catholics and refusal to grant them rights in order to defend the established church, to its eventual disestablishment. Maintaining the Act of Union was a consistent aim throughout the period, however, there was a definite shift in British policy from the beginning of the period to the end, with a more concession-making approach adopted as time progressed. Therefore, on the whole in this area too British policy towards Ireland was inconsistent. The sceptical stance adopted at the start of the period – keeping Ireland as close to Britain as possible for fear of letting go of the ‘Achilles heel’ to France was reversed quite spectacularly with the granting of Dominion Status to Ireland in 1921. Rather than any determined policy throughout the period, Britain’s approach in this area was rather more reactive – as the strength of Irish Nationalism Increased, so the concessions that were made grew. Particularly after the later part of the 19th Century with Gladstone’s conversion to home rule, there was a gradual move to a consensus on the necessity of Ireland having at least a certain degree of independence – the successive Home Rule Bills gained more and more support. Moreover, there was considerable variation in the treatment of the Ulster Problem – from including it with Ireland to keeping it as a part of Great Britain. The final granting of Dominion Status in 1921 after the failure of the Government of Ireland Act finally partitioned Ireland – again a complete change from the original view of Ireland as a single country unified with Britain. Finally, economic policy towards Ireland showed further inconsistency. Although it remained relatively similar between governments until the later part of the 19th Century, in that it treated Ireland much the same way as the rest of Britain – Ireland had many of the same financial responsibilities as Britain had in the form of Poor Rates and Income tax. Throughout the period there was a laissez faire approach to dealings with Irish land and industry. However, there were inconsistencies at certain points – the great famine in the late 1840s saw measures such as Peel’s purchase of a large amount of cheap grain in order to flood the market and lower prices. The Land Acts in the later part of the decade also went against the typical treatment of Ireland and it’s economic matters – tenant rights had been all but ignored in the first half of the century, and the second Land Act of 1881 and its granting of the ‘3 Fs’ and the land purchase scheme given by the Wyndhams Act in 1903 was a clear turnaround, and completely changed the pattern of land ownership in Ireland; about 9 million acres of land were transferred to tenant hands by 1914, and 75% of tenants were buying their landlords’ land. The period saw a considerable change in British economic policy towards Ireland, and therefore it was inconsistent. Throughout the period 1798-1921, there were some quite considerable inconsistencies in British policy towards Ireland. Although to a certain extent it can be seen that their motivating principles behind policy remained relatively similar – in particular the defence of Ireland as part of the union and keeping it as close as possible with the final concession of dominion status in 1921.However, in other areas such as economic policy, the religious problem and sorting out the religious question, there was substantial change throughout. Therefore, overall British policy towards Ireland was not very consistent throughout the period.

Journal on Hamlet’s quote Essay

Hamlet is one of Shakespeares most discussed plays. The drama has a lot of figurative language to be interpreted in various meanings. Among the famous quotes taken from Hamlet, perhaps the one bringing a wide range of different opinions is the line Hamlet said to his friends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Why, then, tis none to you; for there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so: to me it is a prison. (Shakespeare, Hamlet, II, ii, 249.) There is a deep concept in this saying, which perfectly represents the reality and the values of right and wrong. In the context, despite Hamlet saying this line does not refer to the moral values in the society; it does reflect the theme of the play. In this scene when Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, his old friends directed by King Claudius to come and check on his madness, Hamlet simply is mocking his fake friends naiveness. However, this quote does not only have this joking effect, but also foretells the theme of the play. Hamlet is the play of revenge, of finding the truth, of defining what is right and what is wrong. The way the prince thinks about life is going to help him deciding on his actions. . . . for there is nothing either good or bad implies in this world, nothing being is given a low or high value, a righteous or foul reason to exist. The way people look at it, react to it, and perceive it make it good, or bad. For instance, killing is always considered a horrible crime, but in the play Hamlet has to decide to murder his own uncle. However in that situation it is not completely a crime. It may either be right or wrong, depends on each persons view on what is more meaningful, a life, or the elimination of bad deeds. The decision to defy something as right or wrong also depends on a lot of different background like historical, cultural and other aspects. Hamlet considers the marriage between his mom and his uncle two months after King Hamlets death is unethical. The truth is in other nations, relatives do get royal marriage right after death of a family member to remain the stability within the royal clan, which is considered great wisdom and of great moral. In each persons view, an event has various personal relations to his belief and moral conception; therefore the definitions of right and wrong, good and bad vary among people. The argument of right and wrong, or good and bad, perhaps is the main theme  of the play. Is revenge a good excuse for murder? Is Hamlet not doing the same thing as Claudius did to his father? The answers lay upon each audience and his own opinion, as the truth lays in thinking makes it so Work Cited Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Rpt. in Compact Literature Reading Reacting Writing. By Kirszner and Mandell. 6th ed. 2007.

John Wisdom – Gods

Wisdom claims that religions are revealing of the present world, even if they are often referring to what lies beyond this life and our senses. Regardless of the differences a believer and a none believer have, or do not have, towards an afterlife or a life beyond the one they live now, the differences between the beliefs an atheist holds and those that a theist holds are not confined to how they live their lives or face death, for there are also differences in how they view life presently.The truth or falsity of what atheists and theists believe about life has been debated time and time again. John Wisdom is of the belief that religious beliefs are susceptible to factors that rely on how things are in the world, and how one views and interprets these things. This includes a belief in God. Wisdom begins with the claim that the existence of God is no longer an experimental issue as it once was, and he accounts for this with the further claim that this is due to the fact that we now ha ve a better knowledge of why and how things happen as they do.It should be acknowledged, however, that there is, of course, some persistence of this element, which can be demonstrated by the phenomenon of people praying; it is often the case that people pray for others and actually get a sense of helping from this. Wisdom chalks this up to there still being mystery surrounding how humans work. For example, one can never know what another human will do next so expecting a prayer to make a difference [to a person] is not so definite a thing as believing in its mechanical efficiency (185).Despite theists and atheists having difference views as to the facts of the world, this difference is not the kind that can be settled by an experiment. He adds that a belief in God will give a person a different attitude and approach to life and death; it is this belief that can make a person not fearful of death. While atheists and theists have a difference in their expectations of a world to come, an afterlife, their differences are not constrained to only this. They also differ as to the facts of this present life, and the existence (or non-existence) of another world that is now, just beyond our senses.He answers this with an analogy of other minds, which he claims we can reasonably confirm because the existence of other minds explains why certain things behave the way they do, all by themselves. This existence of other minds answers Wisdom’s first question about the reasonableness of belief in divine minds, by giving evidence that there is behaviour which gives reason to believe in any sort of mind. One can then examine if their are other mind-patterns in nature that cannot be explained by human and animal mind-patterns, which we can easily detect empirically, and if these are super-human.Then, one must ask if these things are sufficiently striking to even be called mind-patterns. He states that behaviour similar or superior to human behaviour is considered to be mi nd proving. Wisdom concludes that this distinction seems to be an issue of the application of a name. He attempts to show how the line between a question of fact and the mere application of a name is not so distinct, as the application of a name can be based on many things, such as what we have noticed about or our feelings towards that certain thing. Oftentimes, even when there is agreement on the facts, there is still argument as to the conclusion.Here, Wisdom shows how a claim such as the existence of God can begin as experimental but gradually change completely through the use of his gardener analogy. This analogy goes like this: two people return to their long neglected garden to find that there are plants and flowers growing among the weeds. One believes a gardener has been tending to the plants but the other does not. They inquire around only to discover that no one has seen any gardener come by, so they do a careful re-examination of the garden, at the end of which they stil l disagree.Wisdom claims that, here, the argument is no longer experimental since it is now a matter of their different attitudes towards the garden; they both examined all the same fact, one does not know or expect something the other does not, and yet they still do not come to the same conclusion. But how can there still be a question when all the facts are known? It is now a matter of how each person interprets the facts they have been given. Each person can try to help the other to see what they see by drawing attention to certain patterns in these facts, by drawing attention to features that may have been overlooked or by connecting the facts in pecific ways. The people in the garden analogy must weigh the cumulative effect of many factors. As in the case of settling an argument over whether or not a certain thing is beautiful, it involves a lot of re-examining, re-looking, re-stating and re-describing. This can also be determined through the connecting technique, a technique w hich involves pointing out likenesses and connections a thing has with something else in order to convince another of one’s way of thinking. One can point out things that one is or is not influenced by, or what they should or should not be influences by to demonstrate misconnections in another’s thinking.Wisdom is saying that differences in belief are no more subjective than are differences as to whether a thing is beautiful or not. This explains the essence of religion, according to Wisdom, as some belief as to what the world is like. Thus, he concludes that when a difference in belief in the existence of God is not experimental, it is therefore not based on solid facts, which means that one cannot just assume the right or wrong about it. But now, what should happen when one inquires in this way into the reasonableness of the belief in gods? Wisdom says a â€Å"double and opposite phased change†.The first phase of the change is to show a connection that favours the theist, but the second is to show a connection that favours the atheist. In other words, reveal a source for belief, but then show why that source proves to be an unexpected reason for it. For example, Wisdom uses Freud’s theories as a basis for rejecting God as an subconscious, infantile projection, but then rediscovers God as a presence in that subconscious and the source of such projections. This proves, according to Wisdom, that atheists and theists differ as to the fact of psychoanalysis.However, this seems to a slightly contradictory to Wisdom’s claim that belief in God is not fact based because it is not experimental. It seems that this, in fact, would make it a difference of facts, not just a differences of attitudes, since psychological statements are statements of scientific fact. Psychology is a science, which is based on experiments to reveal truths, so if an atheist and a theist differ as to the fact of psychoanalysis, the reasonableness of the belief of God would not be somewhat subjective, as Wisdom says, but more fact-based.Wisdom believes that religious beliefs are completely susceptible to logical and empirical criticisms. Everything one believes, or does not believe, about the existence of God is attitudinal and experience-based; the way one interprets the things that see, discover, or hear is what leads to their unique beliefs. To discuss the truth or falsity of atheist or theist views is almost as arbitrary and discussing whether or not a certain thing is beautiful, for each person is going to have interpreted that certain thing differently and therefore have a specific attitude toward it. Bibliography Wisdom, John. â€Å"Gods†. 1944.