UK Food Labelling Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

UK Food Labelling - Essay Example In a nation where consumers want to know more and more about what they are putting into their shopping carts, the way towards a more healthy diet and wider awareness of how eating and shopping habits affect the rest of the country and the world on the whole, more information is needed for each food item and the answer seems to be a label that is ever increasing in size. This essay examines the current guidelines of British food labelling, where Europe feels the guidelines should go and in particular how the elements of the 2006 Conference on Food Labelling might be implemented into UK directives. With reference to stakeholders, current label requirements, necessary information and consumer understanding, the role of the label is ascertained both on its own and in conjunction with other information media now and in the near future. Foods that are sold in the United Kingdom are subject to the legislation of the Food Standards Agency; internally speaking this means that any produce sold, or any packaged foods sold in grocery stores must meet certain standards (Cartwright 1999). Meat, for example, must be traceable to the farm they were raised on so that if any health risks are discovered it will be possible to track down any other potentially harmful produce quickly and efficiently (Fine 1998). Packaged foods must not exceed certain amounts of salt or contain substances not deemed suitable for consumption (Foodlaw; General Guidance for Food Business Operators). In terms of the European Union and food trade agreements, these guidelines have not been imposed strictly on EU nations and so it becomes difficult to legislate on imported produce. This means that the FSA must deal with the concerns of its British population in terms of foreign food standards, plus it must deal with internal pressure to understand the fu ll nutritional value of foods sold locally (FSA; Food Law Enforceement). The FSA is run by an appointed board whose members have recently lobbied for the removal of commercials aimed at children that promote the consumption of unhealthy food items containing high amounts of sugar, salt and fat. The organisation is responsible foremost for the health of British consumers and in this capacity it has taken on many challenges in recent years. The FSA is currently under pressure to establish a new labelling system that might incorporate organic and free range status as well as to stamp each item or ingredient with a place of origin (Mansfield 2004). Consumers want to know that their food is not only healthy for them, but healthy for the environment and that any live animals consumed were treated well before their slaughter (Goldstein and Goldstein 2002). Certainly it is beginning to seem as if there is no end to the information being demanded on each food label, however one must consider whether a person can be expected to eat something that is of questionabl e origin and quality. A traffic-light system has been recently backed by the FSA in terms of categorising several packaged foods by level of nutritional value. A green mark will indicate healthy food to be eaten regularly, yellow indicates moderation and red will indicate a food that should only be eaten on occasion (FSA; Agency's new traffic-light TV ad launched). After

The Medici’s and their Art Essay Example for Free

The Medici’s and their Art Essay The Santa Maria Basilica facade resembles something out of the Arabian Nights. It is one of the most recognisable and authentic of the great basilicas in Florence. The basilica also houses some of the most important works of art in Florentine history. It attempts above all to create a relationship between science and art and in so doing, becomes the essence of Renaissance thought. Like many Renaissance and post Renaissance works in Florence, the Santa Maria Basilica or Basilica di santa Maria Novella was not only a product of intense artistic change, but also a product of one of the most important family cartels in artistic history. The name Medici is one that is synonymous with gracious buildings and immaculate architecture, as well as large amounts of money. When considering the Medici family, it must borne in mind that not only were they great architects and patrons, but they also had great power within the church. In fact the Medici family had more influence on most aspects of Florentine life, than any other family. They were and remain in history, the Renaissance version of the Rothchilds, Rockerfellers and Getty’s. This enigmatic family is one whose legacy remains in art history, not because of what they created, but because of what they encouraged. Who were the Medici? In order to better understand how and why the Medici family became so influential, we need to understand where they came from and what their social standing allowed them to achieve. The Medici family is associated with great wealth, but also with some controversy. The Medici family can be traced back to the 12th century and were not seen to be nobility but rather belonged to a line of the patrician class (Van Helden). By the 13th century the family had acquired great wealth through commerce and banking, something that leant itself to political power. Eventually the Medici family became a strong political force in Florence (Van Helden). This political power led to Salvestro de’Medici moving into high ceremonial office (otherwise known as gonfaliere). Salvestro, in the 14th century led a revolt with the ‘common people’, ultimately culminating in the Medici downfall. It was Giovanni di Bicci de’Medici who restored the family name to its former glory as well as even increasing their political prowess (Van Helden). Despite this historical discussion, there was of course, a line Medici’s with whom we are specifically concerned. It was Giovanni’s son who bore the children with whom the Renaissance is associated (Van Helden). It was also this family line in which murder would become a central interest. Guiliano and Lorenzo, the grandsons of Cosimo the elder and sons of Piero were killed and wounded respectively during an internal battle (Van Helden). The Medici family crest is recognisable wherever the Medici influence reaches. Among the distinguished Medici’s are Popes and Grand Dukes, meaning that the family as a whole stretched beyond simply the commercial and financial world. These were the Grand Dukes of Tuscany and to name but a few consisted of Cosimo I, Giovanni and Pietro. The Medici Popes included Clement VII and Leo X (Wikipedia). Indeed, to undertake a more involved discussion will be beyond the scope of this discussion and to this end is far too complicated. However, certain Medici members were of greater influence in the art world than others. The Legacy of the Medici The legacy of the Medici family is well known and remembered particularly due to their rise from ordinary or patrician’s to nobility. Perhaps most clearly of all, we see them as the creators who planted the seeds of modernity during a Renaissance that proved irrevocable in its changes. In fact the Renaissance as such appears to be â€Å"less as the rebirth or revival of a distant and glorious antiquity than as the origin and beginning of the modern world, the prototype of modern European civilisation. †(Garraty and Gay, 488). The Renaissance was not merely about the production and emancipation of art, but also about the creation of a modernised medicine, science and finance. The Medici were at the forefront of all three, with the Medici bank cleverly avoiding the fall of the economy following the Black Death (Garraty and Gay, 489). So far, we are able to ascertain that the Medici were a family of great political and economic concern but that the types of Medici also included clergymen, tyrants and nobility. We also know that with the amount of money available to the Medici, patronage was not only acceptable but expected. The legacy left by the Medici is not only financial and noble, but also available to us for viewing at any time we want. Patronage To be a patron of a specific form of art or indeed, any art, meant that you had great social standing and great wealth. To commission works of art was costly and time consuming, meaning that you were not only able to appreciate it, but that you could also afford ongoing work. Patronage was an important part of Italian Renaissance life, based on the societal norms and values. To patronise a community or an artist meant that you were not only gracious but also wealthy enough to put money into something that essentially did not create more wealth for you. Was this merely a status symbol or was there more to the practice of patronage than we believe at this stage? First of all, patronage included the embellishment and growth of public buildings and artefacts (Annenberg Media). Art during the Renaissance required the outside and the inside to both resemble works of art in different mediums. Brunelleschi and Botticelli were two of the best known artists patronised by the Medici and who uphold the proposition of art as an interior and an exterior (Anneberg Media). The Medici remained the forerunners of artistic patronage mainly because of their love of the extravagant and larger than life lifestyles (Harness). I can thus, given their humble beginnings, understand why the Medici might want to share their wealth with the rest of the world by virtue of creating beautiful surroundings that the public could also enjoy. Although this may be difficult to assimilate given the previous feudal system, it is perhaps relevant to note that the Black Death incited what is known today as philanthropy. Philanthropists generally enjoy alleviating pain and suffering through the aid that they are able to meter out to their fellow humans. Prior to the Renaissance, this was perhaps not a common occurrence, but like AIDS today, the Black Death knew no boundaries. It affected whoever, wherever. For this reason, perhaps it became more necessary to attend to the needs of other people. It was also important to the merchant community of Florence, to spread the education of art, science and mathematics (Harness). Hence the saying that knowledge is power comes to mind. It is also notable, that a patron becomes more politically popular if they uphold the growth of knowledge for their minions as well as providing an income for those who would largely find their career difficult to pursue. The purpose of this civic duty became, although not perhaps initially intended to, a political tool to provide trust between the civil servant and the government (Trexler, 27). In a sense, it was meant to bridge the gap of inequality but was not altogether successful, creating a great deal of stress for the patron (Trexler, 28). â€Å"This sub-governmental system was the patronage network, the everyday lines of communication regulating social relations. In this network, as in formal government, men styled themselves each others true amici, and despised the love of the merchant: You help me, and Ill help you. †Ã¢â‚¬ (Trexler, 27-28). The Medici Crest Above on Figure 1 is a basic picture of the Medici family crest. It shows six balls of red placed in an oval shape upon a mustard yellow background. The Medici â€Å"balls† as they became sarcastically known as were not only a feature emblazoned on all Medici buildings, but also one that became known for its overt publicity. Rivals of the Medici were outraged at the Medici blazon being so clearly visible to the public and thought it to be in rather bad taste (Fillipo). Despite this, the blazon’s origin is surrounded by much debate although it is clearly visible on all Medici buildings. One thought on the origin is that the balls represent either coins (merchant origins) or pills (medical origins) based on the Medici practices and occupations. Some believe that rather than it being swathed in apothecary history, it is the sign of Arte del Cambio, a guild of moneychangers and exchangers (Fillipo). Nonetheless, this blazon has become well known as the essential historical beginnings of the merchant bank. Below is an example of how the Medici blazon is used on buildings that were built on Medici money. The Medici Artists Artists who were patronised by the Medici included the aforementioned Sandro Botticelli and Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Donatello, Fillipino Lippi, Domenico Ghirlandaio and Brunelleschi. These all make up some of the greatest names in Florentine art history. It pays to note that all of the above artists were great names and we need to not how much of this greatness might have been due to the presence of the Medici. Fillipo Brunelleschi Fillipo Bru nelleschi had a love-hate relationship with Cosimo de’Medici, despite completing many works with the man. Brunelleschi, along with artist Ghiberti vied for the artistic attentions of Cosimo, but did not always win the bids. He created for Cosimo, the Santa Maria Novella sculpture, the Crucifix and the Santa Maria del Fiore cupola alongside arch-rival Ghiberti. His bid for the design of the Pallazzo was overturned in favour of his pupil Michelozzo (Provincia di Firenze). Allesandro Botticelli Botticelli served as an apprentice to a goldsmith and is thought to have become the closest of all artists to the Medici (Pottinger, 118). Botticelli is famed as having painted the interior of the Santa Maria Novella with a fresco of the Adoration of the Magi, in which he painted three Medici’s as the Kings: Cosimo, Guiliano and Giovanni (Pottinger, 118). However, his relationship with the Medici was not with Cosimo, but with Lorenzo, a member of a different branch of the Medici (Pottinger, 118). Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci Leonardo Da Vinci was supported by Lorenzo in his early career, although it is largely agreed that Medici neglected the talents of the young Da Vinci (Pottinger, 119). Michelangelo, similarly fell under the patronage of Medici, given his tutorship with another Medici artist Ghirlandaio (Pottinger, 119). Medici therefore did support the earlier careers of the two geniuses that would become the greatest artists of the later Renaissance period. Domenico Ghirlandaio Ghirlandaio is best known as the first of Michelangelo’s esteemed teachers. He also became known, like Botticelli, for his reverence towards Lorenzo. This was seen in his subjects’ likenesses to the man who patronised him (Pottinger, 117). The Refectory of the Ognissanti shows a fresco of the Last Supper with such likenesses present. The Sassetti Chapel at Santa Trinita also reveals this portraiture although his painting remains in the earlier style of Renaissance painting. Ghirlandaio did not enjoy painting women and found the male form far more intriguing. This is seen in the Santa Maria Novella choir paintings of the Tornabuani family, where the female features, though still beautiful, are considered lifeless (Pottinger, 117). Fillipino Lippi Lippi was one of Botticelli’s proteges and shows the style of Botticelli very well. Working primarily for Cosimo, Lippi landed himself in a number of problems due to his insatiable appetite for the gentler sex. In fact, working for Cosimo meant that commissions had to be done under the watchful eye of the Medici to prevent his romantic pursuits that led to melancholic intervals where he refused to leave his room (Life of an Artist). Donato di Niccolo di Betto Bardi (Donatello) Donatello was a close friend of Cosimo de’Medici and for this reason he was assigned the painting of the frieze in the Palazzo Medici (Pottinger, 132). He recreated the antique cameo’s to provide a divine and luscious frieze and roundels (Pottinger, 132). He apprenticed under Ghiberti, another famous and interactive artist in the Italian Renaissance. Donatello sculpted the figure of the dead pirate Baldassare Cossa in bronze, for Cosimo (Devillier Donegan). What we have in the above discussion, is a list of some of the finest artists not only of the Renaissance, but of all time. The pertinence of this is the reach that the Medici had as the proponents of fine art. The abovementioned artists are all quite different both in character and in style, but all contributed to some of the most famous and revered works in history. It is notable that the Medici are credited with finding and upholding this classicism as well as reaching for a new and modernised world. The artists also all contributed to the arts in different ways: sculptors, painters, inventors and architects. Medici Buildings Touring Florence, I became irrevocably aware of the influence of the Medici on architecture and art of that period. What is most fascinating is the length and breadth of the ability of the Medici to make them memorable and also to make art something of great value. The crest of the Medici is visible all around Florence, in churches, libraries and museums. The Medici performed the same tasks as other great personalities such as Peter the Great of Russia and the Athens of Pericles. It was this influence that I noticed beyond all, that this family had the ability and the motivation to create a Florence that would last it must be said, longer than the previously mentioned empires. Not only have they succeeded in producing the future and the past in one capsule, but they have also managed to preserve their legacy. We have a lot to be grateful for in terms of being able to make contact with our past through the works that the Medici sponsored.

Cubism and Henry Moore: A Comparison

Cubism and Henry Moore: A Comparison The 20th century comprised of artists with a broad array of interests and fortes, causing an overlap of stylistic features in artworks ranging from the drawn, the sculpted and even the assemblage works. Sculptures during this era were radical in nature due to their loosening grip of the conventional sculptures that were prior constructed from marble or bronze and the divergence from representing figures. Henry Moore was a well-known sculptor of this period living nearly 90 years who demonstrated this avant-garde emancipation from the standard. In juxtaposition to Moore, Pablo Picasso was associated with the emergence of the Cubism a movement he is noted for. Both artists incorporate themes in their artworks that are both similar and different to one anothers stylistic specialty. The deviation from high-art materials to low-art materials, the influences of both artists from prehistoric to primitive, and the shared and unshared aesthetic qualities of their artworks have been discuss ed in relation to the comparison of Cubism (Picasso) and the sculpture of Henry Moore. Materials were a radical and trans-figurative aspect of both Pablo Picasso and Henry Moore. Both artists had rejected the conventions of traditional art and materials, which were mainly associated with high-art. The aforementioned, Picasso and Moore created their works by breaking these standardizations of the old masters by incorporating materials of low art: an avant-garde aspect that personified this era. Cubism uses every day commercial materials such as newspapers, wallpapers, cardboard, and metal, whereas Henry Moore takes a leap isolating himself from the rest of the sculptors and uses unusual and unique materials in his sculptures. Moores list of materials include: for stone alabaster, ironstone, Corsehill stone, African wonder stone, birds-eye marble; for wood ebony, beech wood, walnut, lignum-vitae; for metals- lead and bronze. It also includes terra cotta and cast stone and various combinations of string and wire with wood and metal (Blackshear, 46). For Picasso and Mo ore, materials were used to provide a contrast; In Moores case paint was not applied or used like the cubists did on their canvases; the use of a variety of materials replaced the act of applying the paint directly in favor of an element of colour interest often lacking in the accumulated work of a sculptor. (blackshear, 46). Both Picasso and Moore also believed to give truth to their materials, which later came to be known as the reduction of means (Kirschenbaum, 169). To extrapolate, both artists believed that the material used, should represent itself rather than insinuating an exterior notion paint should look like paint, wood like wood and stone like stone (Kirschenbaum, 169). The colonization of the African continent by the European powers was a stepping-stone for the emergence of primitive cultures and their influence on the Modern art. It was through this massive bloodshed of the colonization and trade, that the African Tribal Masks made their way to Europe. These masks were merely seen as wooden carvings until the hands of Picasso, Braque and Derain and many more were laid on them. The masks had become a hot commodity in the realm of art aiding in the growing interest of Primitive Art. One of these artists was Picasso, whom surprisingly in different accounts has denied his fascination with these Primitive artifacts. However, this subject is still controversial, because Picasso  remains silent about it and his friend, the art dealer Kahnweiler,  has denied in his writings that the Cubists borrowed from  African art. Despite Picassos refusal to discuss this subject, it is  known from the reminiscences of some of his artist-friends that  he was greatly impressed by and collected African art. He may be touchy about this matter, since Gertrude Stein once reproached  him of using African art as a crutch (Alfert, 391 393). Although Picasso disagrees with those who state that he is in fact indebted to primitive art, his artwork exemplifies otherwise. His early Les Demoiselles DAvignon of 1907 would have been incomplete without the primitive aspects of the mask- the shading, the rough contours, and the explicit twisting of bodies. On the contrary, Moore, who too was influenced by these masks, acknowledges that he borrowed from primitive art (Alfert, 391). In 1930 and just before, he [Moore] produced a number of stone figures  whose facial features are characterized by a concave, heart-shaped  form in which the eyes protrude as small, raised craters. Such a  configuration is common among the works of several African tribes,  notably the Ba-Lega of the North- Eastern Congo. (Alfert, 391) Inevitably, with African sculpture acting as a catalyst in 20th century art, the struggle in art became one for directness, immediacy, and economy of means. (Kirschenbaum, 169). The works of Picasso and Moore have come a long way since their initial exposure to the works of their forefathers of Modern art namely Cezanne and Rodin. (Elsen, 355). Picasso borrowed many of Cezannes pictorial techniques and integrated them into his early cubist works (lecture). He always looked up to Cezanne and admired him greatly since he had initially-before the Cubist movement-deviated from the legacy of the Old Masters; Cezanne instead epitomized new radical practices such as the flattening of the image and the abolishment of perspective-laying the foundation of the Cubist movement. Similarly, Moore looked up to Auguste Rodin who is believed to be the progenitor of Modern sculpture. (ucker, William (1974). Early Modern Sculpture. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0-19-519773-9). It was from Rodin, that Moore developed an interest in the integration of nature and body -a repetitive theme of his works. Moore has explicitly accredited Rodin at many instances: Rodin taught me a lot about the body; its asymmetry from every point of view, how to avoid rigid symmetry, the flexible parts of the body, the head, jaw, neck, thorax, pelvis, knees etc., and that these axes should not parallel each other. These were the ways of giving the figure vitality. (Elsen, 355) Nature, for Moore became an imperative theme in his sculptures. He frequently places his pieces in a horizontal position, which devaluates the importance of the head and stresses the abdomen as the compositional center (Arnheim, 31). By targeting the abdomen, Moore emphasizes his continuous theme of nature, which is also seen in Fauconniers Abudance painting of 1910. Fauconniers piece is a masterful representation of the womb being the center of life regurgitating the role of the woman as being the body in which a growing fruit is held for nine months. This theme of nature used by Moore, is also proven by his favorite theme of the Mother and Child seen in many of his series. Through the integration of Cezanne and Rodins techniques and styles into their artworks, both Picasso and Moore demonstrate how they utilized what they learnt from their Masters to create a bridge towards their individual breakthrough. Aesthetic concepts in the works of Cubism and in the sculptures of Moore are similar in nature. The artists incorporate a sense of uniformity, balance, vitality and emancipation to their pieces to create a dynamic space for it to occupy. The Cubists and Moore have interpreted the occupancy of space by an artwork as being comprised of the relationship of negative and positive space (blackshear, 46). The Cubists believed the non-Euclidian theory where space is not comprised just of the first, second, or third dimension but also the fourth, which symbolizes the notion of timelessness, and simultaneity (textbook). In conjunction to the Cubists idea of space, Moore too has come to use space in all its forms (Blackshear, 46): he uses the dot (zero dimension), line (first dimension), shape (second dimension), volume (third dimension), and movement (form of fourth dimension) (Blackshear, 46). In contrast to cubist works, in which negative spaces cease to exist, Moore makes the use of positiv e and negative space- a tenacious quality of his sculptures (blackshear, 46). Moore utilizes the hollows created in his sculptures the Reclining Figure as the negative space and relates it to another punctured hole to create uniformity. The holes filled with dense air of its surrounding created in his carvings are concave in nature, reminiscent of the concave perforation in Picassos Guitar of 1914 (the Guitars concavities have been influenced by the Grebo Mask). Moore resists using convexities in his pieces because they would obstruct the space aggressively, countering his obsession with coherency. In accordance of invading space, the Guitar is comprised of protruding planes, which jut out in play of substance and void into the air, disrupting its surrounding space. Homogeny in Moores pieces is further achieved through the flow of his units the dead ends of the hands and feet [of the body] merge with each other or stream back into the body of the figure, permitting the circulat ion of energy to continue (Arnheim, 30). Regularity is also attained by the balance and assimilation of the two antagonistic tendencies the internal and external thrusts (Arnheim, 35). Vitality another aesthetic aspect of the work of Picasso and Moore is not achieved in cubist works because the works are to be seen as what they represent, and nothing more meaningful. The shattered fragments of cubist works deny the possession of energy, in favour of embracing spatial incongruity. To compare, for Moore: A work must first have a vitality of its own. I do not mean a reflection  of the vitality of life, of movement, physical action. Frisking, dancing  figures and so on, but that a work can have in it a pent-up energy,  an intense life of its own, independent of the object it may represent. When a work has this powerful vitality we do not connect the word Beauty with it. (3 way piece, 238) For both artists, the labeling of a work with the word Beauty was unacceptable. They both believed that a work should be viewed simply as what it is, similar to how they brought their materials to reductionism, so that they represented what they were and nothing else. Therefore, through the presence of uniformity, balance and the invigorating vitality in Moores works, he complements the surrounding air, by capturing the energy, absorbing it, and then allowing it to evaporate and disseminate into infinity.

I Saw Louisiana in a Live-Oak Growing Essay -- essays papers

I Saw Louisiana in a Live-Oak Growing Walt Whitman is considered one of the most important writers in the history of American Literature. The people of his own time called him a radical, a madman, and a pornographer. These days he is greatly appreciated and entitled as a fearless prophet of a new stage of human development. Sometimes Whitman would be in a slump and he felt that he needed to deflect the people who inquired too directly. This even meant using examples of homosexual elements in his work, as well as unbelievable stories of him having affairs with numerous women and fathering many children, unknown to him. Throughout these sorts of times W. Whitman has gone through both resentment and flattery, nevertheless showing us his best work. I Saw in Louisiana a Live-Oak Growing, is a great example. An older man comes across an oak tree in Louisiana. He begins to compare his life and friendship with this Live-Oak growing as a symbol of this. The word Live-Oak is a form of metonymy standing for the old manà ­s friendship. He describes this tree as it stands there alo...

Cellular System Components

Introduction to GSM Networks Figure 1. 1 is a schematic overview of the main components in a GSM network. The various interface labels are the formal names given to these interfaces. More details about these interfaces are found in GSM TS 03. 02 [26]. The GSM network consists mainly of the following functional parts: †¢ MSC – the mobile service switching centre (MSC) is the core switching entity in the network. The MSC is connected to the radio access network (RAN); the RAN is formed by the BSCs and BTSs within the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN).Users of the GSM network are registered with an MSC; all calls to and from the user are controlled by the MSC. A GSM network has one or more MSCs, geographically distributed. †¢ VLR – the visitor location register (VLR) contains subscriber data for subscribers registered in an MSC. Every MSC contains a VLR. Although MSC and VLR are individually addressable, they are always contained in one integrated node. †¢ G MSC – the gateway MSC (GMSC) is the switching entity that controls mobile terminating calls.When a call is established towards a GSM subscriber, a GMSC contacts the HLR of that subscriber, to obtain the address of the MSC where that subscriber is currently registered. That MSC address is used to route the call to that subscriber. †¢ HLR – the home location register (HLR) is the database that contains a subscription record for each subscriber of the network. A GSM subscriber is normally associated with one particular HLR. The HLR is responsible for the sending of subscription data to the VLR (during registration) or GMSC (during mobile terminating call handling). CN – the core network (CN) consists of, amongst other things, MSC(s), GMSC(s) and HLR(s). These entities are the main components for call handling and subscriber management. Other main entities in the CN are the equipment identi? cation register (EIR) and authentication centre (AUC). CAMEL has no in teraction with the EIR and AUC; hence EIR and AUC are not further discussed. †¢ BSS – the base station system (BSS) is composed of one or more base station controllers (BSC) and one or more base transceiver stations (BTS). The BTS contains one or more transceivers (TRX).The TRX is responsible for radio signal transmission and reception. BTS and BSC are connected through the Abis interface. The BSS is connected to the MSC through the A interface. †¢ MS – the mobile station (MS) is the GSM handset. The structure of the MS will be described in more detail in a next section. A GSM network is a public land mobile network (PLMN). Other types of PLMN are the time division multiple access (TDMA) network or code division multiple access (CDMA) network. GSM uses the following sub-division of the PLMN: CAMEL: Intelligent Networks for the GSM, GPRS and UMTS Network ? 006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd Rogier Noldus 2 CAMEL: Intelligent Networks for the GSM, GPRS and UMTS Network To HLR from other PLMN D HLR D C Core network To/from other network MSC ISUP E MSC A BSC Abis BTS Um Um A ISUP GMSC ISUP BSC Abis BTS Um Um Base station system Air interface MS MS MS MS Figure 1. 1 GSM network architecture †¢ Home PLMN (HPLMN) – the HPLMN is the GSM network that a GSM user is a subscriber of. That implies that GSM user’s subscription data resides in the HLR in that PLMN. The HLR may transfer the subscription data to a VLR (during registration in a PLMN) or a GMSC (during mobile terminating call handling).The HPLMN may also contain various service nodes, such as a short message service centre (SMSC), service control point (SCP), etc. †¢ Visited PLMN (VPLMN) – the VPLMN is the GSM network where a subscriber is currently registered. The subscriber may be registered in her HPLMN or in another PLMN. In the latter case, the subscriber is outbound roaming (from HPLMN’s perspective) and inbound roaming (from VPLMN’s perspective) . When the subscriber is currently registered in her HPLMN, then the HPLMN is at the same time VPLMN. 1 †¢ Interrogating PLMN (IPLMN) – the IPLMN is the PLMN containing the GMSC that handles mobile terminating (MT) calls.MT calls are always handled by a GMSC in the PLMN, regardless of the origin of the call. For most operators, MT call handling is done by a GMSC in the HPLMN; in that case, the HPLMN is at the same time IPLMN. This implies that calls destined for a GSM subscriber are always routed to the HPLMN of that GSM subscriber. Once the call has arrived in the HPLMN, the HPLMN acts as IPLMN. MT call handling will be described in more detail in subsequent sections. When basic optimal routing (BOR) is applied, the IPLMN is not the same PLMN as the HPLMN.The user of a GSM network is referred to as the served subscriber ; the MSC that is serving that subscriber is known as the serving MSC. Examples are: †¢ mobile originated call – the MSC that is handling th e call is the serving MSC for this call; the calling subscriber is the served subscriber; †¢ mobile terminated call – the GMSC that is handling the call is the serving GMSC for this call; the called subscriber is the served subscriber. 1 The CAMEL service requirement, GSM TS 02. 78 [12] uses this strict de? nition. The term VPLMN is, however, commonly used to denote any network other than the HPLMN.Introduction to GSM Networks 3 1. 1 Signalling in GSM The various entities in the GSM network are connected to one another through signalling networks. Signalling is used for example, for subscriber mobility, subscriber registration, call establishment, etc. The connections to the various entities are known as ‘reference points’. Examples include: †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ A interface – the connection between MSC and BSC; Abis interface – the connection between BSC and BTS; D interface – the connection between MSC and HLR; Um interface à ¢â‚¬â€œ the radio connection between MS and BTS. Various signalling protocols are used over the reference points.Some of these protocols for GSM are the following: †¢ mobile application part (MAP) – MAP is used for call control, subscriber registration, short message service, etc. ; MAP is used over many of the GSM network interfaces; †¢ base station system application part (BSSAP) – BSSAP is used over the A interface; †¢ direct transfer application part (DTAP) – DTAP is used between MS and MSC; DTAP is carried over the Abis and the A interface. DTAP is speci? ed in GSM TS 04. 08 [49]; †¢ ISDN user part (ISUP) – ISUP is the protocol for establishing and releasing circuit switched calls.ISUP is also used in landline Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN). A circuit is the data channel that is established between two users in the network. Within ISDN, the data channel is generally a 64 kbit/s channel. The circuit is used for the tran sfer of the encoded speech or other data. ISUP is speci? ed in ITU-T Q. 763 [137]. When it comes to call establishment, GSM makes a distinction between signalling and payload. Signalling refers to the exchange of information for call set up; payload refers to the data that is transferred within a call, i. e. voice, video, fax etc.For a mobile terminated GSM call, the signalling consists of exchange of MAP messages between GMSC, HLR and visited MSC (VMSC). The payload is transferred by the ISUP connection between GMSC and VMSC. It is a continual aim to optimize the payload transfer through the network, as payload transfer has a direct cost aspect associated with it. Some network services are designed to optimize the payload transfer. One example is optimal routing. 1. 2 GSM Mobility Roaming with GSM is made possible through the separation of switching capability and subscription data.A GSM subscriber has her subscription data, including CAMEL data, permanently registered in the HLR i n her HPLMN. The GSM operator is responsible for provisioning this data in the HLR. The MSC and GMSC in a PLMN, on the other hand, are not speci? c for one subscriber group. The switching capability of the MSC in a PLMN may be used by that PLMN’s own subscribers, but also by inbound roaming subscribers; see Figure 1. 2. In Figure 1. 2, the GSM user who is a subscriber of PLMN-A roams to PLMN-B. The HLR in PLMN-A transfers the user’s subscription data to the MSC in PLMN-B.The subscriber’s subscription data remains in the MSC/VLR as long as she is served by a BSS that is connected to that MSC. Even when the user switches her MS off and then on again, the subscription data remains in the MSC. After an extended period of the MS being switched off, the subscription data will be purged from the MSC. When the subscriber switches her MS on again, the subscriber has to re-register with the MSC, which entails the MSC asking the HLR in the HPLMN to re-send the subscription data for that subscriber. 4 CAMEL: Intelligent Networks for the GSM, GPRS and UMTS NetworkTransfer of subscription data to MSC/VLR HLR PLMN-A MSC MS Subscriber roams to other PLMN PLMN-B MSC Figure 1. 2 Transfer of GSM subscription data for a roaming subscriber When the subscriber moves from one MSC service area (MSC-1) to another MSC service area (MSC-2), the HLR will instruct MSC-1 to purge the subscription data of this subscriber and will send the subscription data to MSC-2. 1. 3 Mobile Station The MS, i. e. the GSM handset, is logically built up from the following components: †¢ mobile equipment (ME) – this is the GSM terminal, excluding the SIM card; †¢ subscriber identi? ation module (SIM) – this is the chip embedded in the SIM card that identi? es a subscriber of a GSM network; the SIM is embedded in the SIM card. When the SIM card is inserted in the ME, the subscriber may register with a GSM network. The ME is now effectively personalized for this GS M subscriber; see Figure 1. 3. The characteristics of the SIM are speci? ed in GSM TS 11. 11. The SIM card contains information such as IMSI, advice of charge parameters, operator-speci? c emergency number, etc. For the UMTS network an enhanced SIM is speci? ed, the universal subscriber identity module (USIM); refer 3GPP TS 31. 02. 1. 4 Identi? ers in the GSM Network GSM uses several identi? ers for the routing of calls, identifying subscribers (e. g. for charging), locating the HLR, identifying equipment, etc. Some of these identi? ers play an important role for CAMEL. 1. 4. 1 International Mobile Subscriber Identity The international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) is embedded on the SIM card and is used to identify a subscriber. The IMSI is also contained in the subscription data in the HLR. The IMSI is used for identifying a subscriber for various processes in the GSM network. Some of these are: KPN SIM + ME = MSFigure 1. 3 Components of the mobile station Introduction to GSM Networks 5 3 digits MCC Maximum 15 digits 2 or 3 digits MNC MSIN Figure 1. 4 Structure of the IMSI †¢ location update – when attaching to a network, the MS reports the IMSI to the MSC, which uses the IMSI to derive the global title (GT) of the HLR associated with the subscriber; †¢ terminating call – when the GSM network handles a call to a GSM subscriber, the HLR uses the IMSI to identify the subscriber in the MSC/VLR, to start a process for delivering the call to that subscriber in that MSC/VLR. †¢ roaming charging – a VPLMN uses the IMSI o send billing records to the HPLMN of a subscriber. Figure 1. 4 shows the format of the IMSI. †¢ mobile country code (MCC) – the MCC identi? es the country for mobile networks. The MCC is not used for call establishment. The usage of MCC is de? ned in ITU-T E. 212 [129]. The MCC values are allocated and published by the ITU-T. †¢ mobile network code (MNC) – the MNC identi? es the mobile network within a mobile country (as identi? ed by MCC). MCC and MNC together identify a PLMN. Refer to ITU-T E. 212 [129] for MNC usage. The MNC may be two or three digits in length. Common practice is that, within a country (as identi? d by MCC), all MNCs are either two or three digits. †¢ mobile subscriber identi? cation number (MSIN) – the MSIN is the subscriber identi? er within a PLMN. The IMSI is reported to the SCP during CAMEL service invocation. The IMSI may be needed, for example, when identifying a country; countries in North America have equal country code (country code = 1), but different MCC (e. g. Canada = 303; Mexico = 334). 1. 4. 2 Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network Number (MSISDN Number) The MSISDN is used to identify the subscriber when, among other things, establishing a call to that subscriber or sending an SMS to that subscriber.Hence, the MSISDN is used for routing purposes. Figure 1. 5 shows the structure of the MSISDN. †¢ co untry code (CC) – the CC identi? es the country or group of countries of the subscriber; †¢ national destination code (NDC) – each PLMN in a country has one or more NDCs allocated to it; the NDC may be used to route a call to the appropriate network; †¢ subscriber number (SN) – the SN identi? es the subscriber within the number plan of a PLMN. CC NDC SN 1, 2 or 3 digits Maximum 15 digits Figure 1. 5 Structure of the MSISDN 6 CAMEL: Intelligent Networks for the GSM, GPRS and UMTS Network IMEITAC 6 digits FAC 2 digits FAC 2 digits SNR 6 digits SNR 6 digits spare 1 digit IMEISV TAC 6 digits SV 2 digits Figure 1. 6 Structure of IMEI and IMEISV The MSISDN is not stored on the subscriber’s SIM card and is normally not available in the MS. 2 The MSISDN is provisioned in the HLR, as part of the subscriber’s pro? le, and is sent to MSC during registration. The MSISDN is also reported to SCP when a CAMEL service is invoked. One subscriber may have multiple MSISDNs. These MSISDNs are provisioned in the HLR. At any one moment, only a single MSISDN is available in the MSC/VLR for the subscriber. . 4. 3 International Mobile Equipment Identi? er The international mobile equipment identi? er (IMEI) is used to identify the ME [or user equipment (UE) in UMTS network]. Each ME has a unique IMEI. The IMEI is hard-coded in the ME and cannot be modi? ed. Figure 1. 6 shows the structure of the IMEI. The IMEI is not used for routing or subscriber identi? cation. Refer to GSM TS 03. 03 [27] for the type approval code (TAC), ? nal assembly code (FAC) and serial number (SNR). The software version (SV) may be included in the IMEI (‘IMEISV’) to indicate the version of software embedded in the ME.The IMEI is always encoded as an eight-octet string. As from CAMEL Phase 4, the IMEI(SV) may be reported to the SCP. 1. 4. 4 Mobile Station Roaming Number The mobile station roaming number (MSRN) is used in the GSM network for routing a cal l to a MS. The need for the MSRN stems from the fact that the MSISDN identi? es a subscriber, but not the current location of that subscriber in a telecommunications network. The MSRN is allocated to a subscriber during MT call handling and is released when the call to that subscriber is established. Each MSC in a PLMN has a (limited) range of MSRNs allocated to it.An MSRN may be allocated to any subscriber registered in that MSC. The MSRN has the form of an E. 164 number and can be used by the GMSC for establishing a call to a GSM subscriber. An MSRN is part of a GSM operator’s number plan. The MSRN indicates the GSM network a subscriber is registered in, but not the GSM network the subscriber belongs to. Figure 1. 7 shows how the MSRN is used for call routing. The MSRN is not meant for call initiation. GSM operators may con? gure their MSC such that subscribers cannot dial numbers that fall within the MSRN range of that operator. 1. 5 Basic ServicesAll activities that may b e done in the GSM network, such as establishing a voice call, establishing a data call, sending a short message, etc. , are classi? ed as basic services. In order for a subscriber to use a GSM basic service, she must have a subscription to that service. 3 The handling of a basic 2 GSM subscribers may program their MSISDN into the phone; this has, however, no signi? cance for the network. 3 Exceptions are Tele Service 12 (emergency call establishment) and Tele Service 23 (Cell Broadcast). Subscribers do not need a subscription to these Tele Services to use them.Introduction to GSM Networks 7 return MSRN request MSRN HLR VMSC MSRN GMSC incoming call MSISDN Figure 1. 7 Usage of MSRN during call establishment to a GSM subscriber service is fully standardized. Hence, a subscriber may use a basic service in any GSM network she roams to, provided that that basic service is supported in that network. The HLR will send a list of subscribed basic services to the MSC/VLR, during registration. When a GSM subscriber initiates a call, the MS supplies the serving MSC with a set of parameters describing the circuitswitched connection that is requested.These parameters are the bearer capability (BC), low-layer compatibility (LLC) and high-layer compatibility (HLC), as will be described below. The MSC uses the BC, LLC and HLC to derive the basic service for this call. The rules for deriving the basic service from LLC, HLC and BC are speci? ed in GSM TS 09. 07 [55]. The MSC then checks whether the subscriber has a subscription to the requested basic service, i. e. whether the subscription data in the VLR contains that basic service. If the service is not subscribed to, then the MSC disallows the call. The basic service is not transported over ISUP.When a CAMEL service is invoked, the MSC reports the requested basic service to the SCP. The SCP may use the indication of the requested basic service for call service processing. Examples include: †¢ video calls may be charged at a higher rate than speech calls; †¢ for data calls and fax calls, the CAMEL service shall not play any announcements or tones. Basic services are divided into two groups: tele services and bearer services. 1. 5. 1 Tele Services Table 1. 1 provides an overview of the available tele services (TS); see also GSM TS 02. 03 [3]. 1. 5. 2 Bearer Services Table 1. provides an overview of the available bearer services (BS). The two bearer service groups are sub-divided into a variety of bearer services with different characteristics. Refer to GSM TS 02. 02 [2]. 1. 5. 3 Circuit Bearer Description Bearer capability, low-layer compatibility and high-layer compatibility are descriptors of a circuitswitched (CS) connection. When a GSM subscriber initiates a call, the BC, LLC and HLC are transported from MS to MSC over DTAP. The MSC includes the parameters in the ISUP signal to the destination. These parameters are also reported to the SCP during CAMEL service invocation.That enables a CAMEL service to adapt the service logic processing to the type of call. Figure 1. 8 shows the relation between LLC, HLC and BC on the DTAP and the corresponding parameters on ISUP. 8 CAMEL: Intelligent Networks for the GSM, GPRS and UMTS Network Table 1. 1 Tele service 11 12 Tele services Description Telephony Emergency calls Comment This TS represents the normal speech call The emergency call uses the characteristics of telephony (TS11), but may be established without subscription and bypasses various checks in the MS and in the MSC This TS relates to receiving an SMS.This TS is not sent to the MSC/VLR. When an SMS is sent to the subscriber, the HLR checks whether the destination subscriber has a subscription to TS 21 This TS relates to the sending of an SMS This TS relates to the capability of an SMS that is sent as a broadcast SMS This TS relates to the capability to establish a speech and fax (group 3) call This TS relates to the capability to establish a fax (group 3) call This TS r elates to the capability to participate in a group call as speci? ed in GSM TS 03. 8 [35] This TS relates to the capability to receive a voice broadcast as speci? ed in GSM TS 03. 68 [35] 21 Short message MT 22 23 61 62 91 92 Short message MO Cell broadcast Alternate speech and fax group 3 Automatic fax group 3 Voice group call Voice broadcast Table 1. 2 Tele service 20 30 Bearer services Description Asynchronous data bearer services Synchronous data bearer services Comment May be used for asynchronous services from 300 bit/s to 64 kbit/s. May be used for synchronous services from 1. 2 to 64 kbit/s.This BS may be used, amongst other things, for multimedia services such as video telephony. 4 DTAP (GSM TS 04. 08) Low layer compatibility High layer compatibility Bearer capability MSC ISUP (ITU-T Q. 763) Access transport [low layer compatibility] User teleservice information User service information Figure 1. 8 Transfer of LLC, HLC and BC through DTAP and ISUP †¢ Low-layer compatib ility – the LLC is transported transparently between the calling entity and called entity; it may be used by the respective entities to adapt codecs for interworking purposes.LLC describes mainly characteristics related to the data transfer. 4 3GPP Rel-7 may include a dedicated bearer service for video telephony. Introduction to GSM Networks 9 †¢ High-layer compatibility – the HLC is also transported transparently between the calling entity and called entity; it is used to describe the requested service, such as telephony, Fax, video telephony, etc. †¢ Bearer capability – the BC describes the characteristics of the 64 kbit/s circuit requested for the call. 1. 6 Supplementary ServicesSupplementary services (SS) in GSM are a means of enriching the user experience. An SS may, for example, forward a call in the case of no reply from the called party, bar certain outgoing or incoming calls, show the number of the calling party to the called party, etc. In o rder to use an SS, a GSM user needs a subscription to that SS. The subscription to supplementary services is contained in the HLR and is sent to the MSC/VLR during registration. The supplementary services are fully standardized.A GSM subscriber can therefore use her supplementary services in any GSM network, provided that the network supports these supplementary services, and have the same user experience. Table 1. 3 SS group Line identi? cation GSM supplementary services Supplementary services Calling line identi? cation presentation (CLIP) Calling line identi? cation restriction (CLIR) Connected line presentation (COLP) Connected line restriction (COLR) Calling name presentation (CNAP) Call forwarding – unconditional (CFU) Call forwarding – busy (CFB) Call forwarding – no reply (CFNRY) Call forwarding – not reachable (CFNRC) Call de? ction (CD) Explicit call transfer (ECT) Call waiting (CW) Call hold (CH) Call completion to busy subscriber (CCBS) Multi- call (MC) Multi-party call (MPTY) Closed user group (CUG) Advice of charge – information (AOCI)Advice of charge – charge (AOCC) User-to-user signalling – service 1 (UUS1) User-to-user signalling – service 2 (UUS2) User-to-user signalling – service 3 (UUS3) Barring of all outgoing calls (BAOC) Barring of outgoing international calls (BOIC) Barring of outgoing international calls except to the home country (BOIC-exHc) Barring of all ncoming calls (BAIC) Barring of all incoming calls when roaming (BICROAM) enhanced multi-level precedence and pre-emption (eMLPP) GSM TS 02. 81 [13] Name identi? cation Call forwarding 02. 96 [24] 02. 82 [14], Call offering Call completion 02. 72 [11] 02. 91 [22] 02. 83 [15], 02. 93 [23], 22. 135 [69]a 02. 84 [16] 02. 85 [17] 02. 86 [18] 02. 87 [19] Multi-party Community of interest Charging Additional information transfer Call barring 02. 88 [20] Call priority 2. 67 [10] a For the multi-call service, there is no GSM TS a vailable, but only a 3GPP TS (22. 135). 10 CAMEL: Intelligent Networks for the GSM, GPRS and UMTS Network Supplementary services may be provisioned for an individual basic service or for a group of basic services, e. g. a subscriber may have barring of all outgoing calls for all tele services and all bearer services, except SMS (tele service group 20). Such a subscriber is barred from establishing utgoing calls (except emergency calls), but may still send short messages.Some supplementary services may be activated or deactivated by the user. Examples include call forwarding and call barring. An operator may decide to bar certain subscribers or subscriber groups from modifying their supplementary services. Table 1. 3 shows the Supplementary Services. They are combined in service groups. Subscriptions are per individual Supplementary Service. The right-most column indicates the GSM technical speci? ations (TS) that specify the service requirement for the respective Supplementary Servi ce(s). The chapters on CAMEL Phases 1–4 describe the interaction between CAMEL and the various supplementary services. Not all GSM networks support all supplementary services. Many of the supplementary services in GSM have equivalent supplementary services in ISDN. The ISDN supplementary services are described in ITU-T recommendations. GSM TS 02. 03 [3] describes how the supplementary services may be activated, deactivated and invoked.

Buddhism In Countries

Buddhism is one of the most followed religions in the world. It ushered in Northeastern India in the late 500 B. C. as a monastic movement against the orthodox caste oriented Indian society. The world wide range of followers alters from 150 to 350 millions. Siddhartha Gautama founded this religion. Being a prince he lead a life of ample luxury and comfort. But no sooner did he realize the emptiness of his life; he renounced his pompous and pampered lifestyle and opted to embark on a journey to the ultimate destination to seek truth, enlightenment, and cycle of rebirths.Glenn Wallis cites a light philosophical insight on the teachings and idioms of Buddhism. A selected assimilation of 16 essential discourses extracted from more than 5000 Pali suttas of Buddhism. Wallis provides an illuminating insight analyzing in details the text containing Mahasattipatthana Sutta, Anapanasati Sutta, Sakunagghi Sutta, Culamalukya Sutta, Tevijja Sutta, Sabba Sutta, Kesamutti Sutta, Phenapindupama Sutt a, Anattalakkhana Sutta, Bhara Sutta, Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, Gotama Sutta, Parayana Sutta, Nibbuta Sutta, Sankhatalakkhana Sutta, and Asankhatalakkhana Sutta.This compilation is a useful text and a valuable source book citing the selected fundamental suttas elaborately versed with an eloquent introduction and fairly understandable notes. Glenn’s accessible translation of the Buddha’s doctrines to his followers had given an opportunity to the twenty-first century readers in the modern west to take lessons of life from the great teacher. The enlightened Buddha is a figure vastly acclaimed throughout Asia since millenniums for his great wisdom that enlightened mass illuminating the path to a meaningful life of satisfaction.Today, in the west his teachings are intensely adapted by adherents, psychologists, philosophers and physicists who find his doctrines on human situation lucidly descriptive and his recommended practice of meditation to be implemented in awakening to a situation with transparency and calm temperament. Buddha, the mythical figure is not an answer to a suffering seeker of relief; the optimum answer lays in the preached teachings of Siddhartha Gautama- an ordinary person who rose to be a great spiritual teacher. Buddhism emerged in crisis.Siddhartha Gautama, the royal youth one day started finding the worldly pleasures useless and threatening. His life started walking towards a destination to find a significant answer to the perturbed life of human race. On his path towards enlightenment he claims to have discovered a noticeable aspect which was capable of dealing with Life’s problems. The Pali cannon contain two classical sutras which supports this discovery. The sutras are – â€Å"Quenched† and â€Å"Destination†. Glenn summarized sixteen suttas from the five thousand Pali dialects.The two most popular discourses of Pali Cannon from the Theravada Buddhism are the Satipatthana Sutta and the Mahasatt ipatthana sutta. This sutta is accepted and provides a potential practice to â€Å"mindfulness†. Buddha defines this Sutta in four parts for establishing mindfulness (Sattipatthana): body, sensations (or feelings), mind (or consciousness) and mental contents: Kaya (body): ? Breathing ? Postures (Walking, Standing, Sitting, Lying Down) ? Clarity of understanding ? Thoughtful approach towards repulsiveness of the Body ? Thoughtfulness over Material Elements ? Cemetery meditationsFeelings (sensations): †¢ Satisfactory or unsatisfactory or feelings of neutrality. †¢ Materialistic or spiritual feelings Chitta (Mind/Consciousness) ? Passionate desire(saragam) or non passionate (vitaragam) ? Hatred or aversion(sadosam) or without hatred (vitadosam) ? False self belief (samoham) or not delusive (vitamoham) ? Contracted (sankhittam) or dispersed (vikkhittam) ? Nobility (mahaggatam) or without nobility (amahaggatam) ? Outstanding (sa-uttaram) or unsurpassed (anuttaram) ? disc reet (samahitam) or indiscreet (asamahitam) ? released (vimuttam) or unreleased (avimuttam)(Dhamma) Mental Contents ? The five obstructions ? The Aggregates (skandha) of clinging (upadana). ? The Sense-Bases (Atayana) and their Fetters. ? The seven factors of Enlightenment. ? The four noble Truths. The Anapanasati Sutta (Breath – mindfulness) illustrates the detailed instructions of the Buddha on the practice of using breadth (anapana) as a focus of mindfulness (sati) meditation. The discourse leads to a sixteen step procedure to develop mental concentration. The destination is to forge to be insightful and understandable regarding the Four Foundations of Mindfulness (Satipahana), the Seven Factors of Awakening (Bojjhangas), and finally Nibbana. The Anapanasati Sutta is an acclaimed text in Theravada Buddhism. Theravada Pali Cannon represents this as the 118th discourse in the Majjhima Nikaya. Buddha defines mindfulness of the breath to be developed and repeatedly practiced t o receive fruitful benefits in life leading to clarity of vision and deliverance. The path to be traced to reach this destination follows: †¢ Excelling in Breath mindfulness (Pali: anapanasati) aids to the perfection of the four Foundations of Mindfulness (satipatthana).†¢ The perfection of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment (Bojjhanga) is the result of developing The Four Foundations of Mindfulness. †¢ Development in The Seven Foundations of Enlightenment aids to clarity vision and deliverance. According to Jataka, the Sakunagghi sutta relates a story which goes on like this: The Bodhisattva once reincarnated as a quail and was snatched one day by a falcon. Its then that the quail lamented on not being in the feeding ground of his own people, he felt his suffering was due to his diversion from his fellow beings.The proud falcon let the Quail go saying that he is capable of seizing him from any situation or place. The quail grabbed the opportunity and fled back and pe rched on an immense lump of earth and challenged the Falcon. The falcon took an attempt to swoop down to get hold of the quail, but dashed to pieces against the clod as the Quail efficiently took a sharp turn over. Sakunagghi Sutta is the name given in the Uddana of the Samayutta. It is the introductory Jataka of the Sutta. A monk must be attached spiritually to his own pasture ground, his own possession, his native beat (pettikavisaya) – e.g. the four Satipattanas. Lust is the result of getting incited through passion fraught of objects, sounds etc. Jataka was related through the preaching of the Sakunovada Sutta. Culamalukya Sutta was delivered at Savatthi to the Bhikkhu Malukya. One afternoon the vulnerable Bhikkhu Malukya interrupted Buddha’s meditation to clarify his queries regarding the popular classical questions: How eternal is the universe, how similar is the soul and the body, is soul and body are different from one another, whether life ends after death or it still exists and so on.The blessed one, Buddha patiently replied and explained that these views do not regulate the practice of holy life. No matter what notion one creates its evident that there will be birth, ageing, decay, death, sorrow, lamentation, pain, grief and distress. Buddha made it clear that he teaches only about Dukkha- its cause, cessation and the way leading to its cessation. He assured Malukya to show the path of ultimate realization of truth. Tevijja Sutta is compiled as the thirteenth Sutta of the Digha Nikaya. This doctrine was preached to Vasettha and Bharadvaja when they visited the blessed one at Manasakata.The Buddha through detailed conversation educates them about the futility of the long procured notion that merely attaining knowledge of the three Vedas can be a leading channel to reunite with Brahma. Such union can be attained only by practicing the four Brahma-Viharas. When Buddha was on a tour through the kingdom of Kosala, two Brahmin youths had the privilege to meet him. They requested Buddha to settle their dispute as to how they could attain the path leading to companionship with the eternal Brahma. Each of them cultivated their own notion to be true, as shown by their own master.Buddha explained that none of their masters had happened to see Brahma, so they are blindfolded to precede the ever traced path of the unknown. He further helped them derive the true path that actually led to the Brahma realm, i. e. the path that kindled morality and concentration, and development of loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy and equanimity for all sentient beings. According to the Sabbasava Sutta the blessed one put forward his message for the monks saying, fermentation ends when one knows and sees, but it is not relevant to one who does not know and does not see.This knowledge and sight is related to appropriate attention and inappropriate attention. A monk’s inappropriate attention arise unaccomplished fermentation, and arisen fermentation increases. But appropriate attention doesn’t leave space for unaccomplished fermentation to arise and abandon the arisen fermentation. This sutta proposes a process of eradication of few taints: strong desire tamed for acquiring sensual pleasure, desire for being and ignorance. These taints are eventually nurtured along with incorrect attentiveness causing defilements.Such defilement can be regulated through the seven method path of optimistic attribute: Observing or Seeing, Restraining, Using, Enduring, Avoiding, Removing and Developing. So says the Blessed one, â€Å"When you know for yourselves, ‘These things are wholesome; these things are blameless; these things are praised by the wise; these things, if undertaken and practiced, lead to welfare and happiness,’ then you should engage in them†. – Buddha Kesamutti Sutta is a well known discourse to the Kalamas is often related as the Buddha’s charter for Freedom of enqu iry.It can be found in the Book of threes in the gradual Sayings. Kesamutta was a business town of the Kalamas. This being an important part of the entire discourse, begins with Kalamas desirous to clarify how relevant are the doctrines that they have been hearing from various teachers. They wanted to know the truth as every teacher appreciates their own opinions and disparages the view point of others. Buddha clears their views by asking them to experiment every teaching and then imply them in their own life.But that doesn’t mean one should defy all teachings and prove to be a cynical materialist. This attitude would rather soar up unnecessary self esteem and reverse their urge to investigate any further. To conclude it states how an admirable disciple abides to defy covetousness, ill-will, and confusion, with an expanded morality nurturing love, kindness, compassion, sympathy, joy, and equanimity. This enriches his bliss and gears his happiness till eternity. To sum up, he is self assured and content.The Phenapindupama Sutta speaks about Rupa which is frothy in nature due to its instability, impermanency, and constantly rising and diminishing attribute. Hence it is not self, rather unrealistic. Vedana is truly comparable to an air bubble which is always unsustainable. Our life values various sensations similar to bubbles, vanishing in no time, impermanent, untrustworthy, the nature of Anicca, dukhha and anatta. Perception of sense apprehends whatever it visualizes, hears, smells, tastes, touches or knows are nothing but a mirage.Consideration of samana as a being, the gender difference is but a mere illusion like a mirage. Practically it is merely a phenomenon of incessant emerging and diminishing. Sankara, volitional activities, are similar to plantain trunks. Layers of fibrous materials constitute to form the plantain trunk without any substantial, solid inner core. Shankara is just like the plantain trunk without any inner substance. Consciousness has similarity with conjuror’s trick. It emerges and vanishes within no time. Consciousness arises devoid of ones desire, but as per condition of its own cause and circumstances.The Anattalakkhana Sutta (Pali, â€Å"not- self Characteristic Discourse†), also popular as the Pancavaggiya Sutta (Pali, â€Å"Group of Five Ascetics†), is considered to be the second discourse delivered by the Blessed Buddha. In this discourse Buddha dealt with the physical and mental human constituents and surfaces that they both are impermanent. (anicca), subject to suffering ( dukkha) and thus unfit for identification with the ‘self’ the soul (atta). The pali canon contains Anattalakkhana Sutta in the Samuyatta Nikaya (â€Å"Connected Collection†).This discourse happens to be a part of the Buddhist monastic code (Vinaya). The Bhara sutta can be illustrated as; human body being one of the Khandhas bears a heavy burden. Desire to serve it persists on carrying the h eavy burden. We are carrying the burden even when we feed or clothe ourselves. We are just mere servants to the wholesome matter (rupakkhandha). Along with the food and clothing we are responsible of maintaining the physical and psychological stability and scatter happiness. This service is towards the aggregate of feelings and sentiments ( vedanakkhandha).We are also liable to cater to the bodies hearing and visual needs and the wellness. Consciousness deals these concerns. Hence we are ultimately a servant to the aggregate of consciousness (vinnanakkhandha). The violation of activities (sankharakkhandha) and our temperament to do the unlawful to satisfy our desires also constitute to our burden. We also tend to bear the burden of aggregate perception (sannakkhandha) as this sense of human beings which train their faculties of mind and brain to retain knowledge and make it capable of realizing what is good and what is evil.Our desires on being good if satisfied finds tempted toward s evil and after committing a mistake we repent and unknowingly the burden adds on. Hence, Buddha declared the five aggregates of clinging (Upadanakkhandha) as a heavy burden. Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta is the first discourse that he delivered soon after attaining Enlightenment. He illustrated this Sutta to the group of five monks who accompanied him while practicing austerities in the forest for long years. This discourse contains significant teachings of the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.Hearing to this discourse, his disciple monk Kondanna attained the first stage of Enlightenment, hence giving rise to Ariya Sangha (Noble Sangha). This discourse is better known as the Dhammachakka Sutta or the Wheel of Dhamma discourse. The Gotama Sutta is an elaborate description that Buddha delivers to his disciples, reveals the path he traversed to attain the ultimate Enlightenment. He had some thoughts disturbing him throughout and he wanted an apparent release from death de cay and suffering that human race had been tolerating since long.Through Paryana Sutta Buddha teaches Goal, the ultimate destination and the path to be followed to attain it. It was so called because it leads to Nibbana (Nibbanasankhatam Param Ayanto Parayana Ti Laddhavoharam Dhammam). Nibbuta Sutta derives from human character of leading life noticeably beyond limit and quenching the desires he had nurtured whole life. It is the extraction of all the sacrifices a person does to achieve the ultimate goal. Nibbuta is the coolness which is derived by quenching of defilement, either by himself or by someone else.As this thirst is quenched only coolness persists. Sankhatalakkhana Sutta demonstrates how a person fabricates his wishes in life on not having achieved naturally. How he makes amends to illuminate his life and forget the failures. Where as Asankhatalakkana sutta displays a satisfactory life contended with whatever is provided naturally and does not keep his soul in disguise bu t demonstrate the true atma. Buddhism, a philosophical religion encompasses a variety of traditions beliefs and practices mainly based on the doctrines and preaching of Lord Buddha (the awakened one).The Blessed one resided in North eastern Indian subcontinent between the 6th and the 4th century B. C. he is considered to be an awakened teacher who shared his insight with his disciples to aid sentient beings end suffering (Dukkha) and achieve Nirvana. The religion is divided into two branches, The Theravada and The Mahayana. Both branches are found throughout the world. It is considered to be the world’s fourth largest religion with near about 500 million followers. In spite of being a royal character Siddhartha Gautama left behind the worldly pleasures to find a path that leads to an end to human sufferings.He attained his Enlightenment demolishing the fetters of his mind, under a Boddhi tree in Boddh Gaya, India. Through his doctrines (popularly known as Suttas) preached the reality of life through his Eight fold Paths and The Four Noble Paths. Buddha was an epitome of spirituality. Glenn Wallis had highlighted a descriptive insight of the sixteen Suttas which are always relevant to aid human life and inspire them to strive to end suffering. Glenn’s keen eye for the details is highly appreciable both for the resource and quality it resembles.

The Writing Process Is a Numbers Game

The Writing Process Is a Numbers Game The Writing Process Is a Numbers Game The Writing Process Is a Numbers Game By Guest Author You would think that it would be a words game, but it’s not. It’s all about numbers. We’ve all seen different definitions of the writing process. One thing they all have in common, though, is that they begin with ideas and end with words on paper (or screen). While the normal stages: prewriting, writing, revising, editing, and publishing are important and should be followed, there is one topic that is generally not discussed. Numbers. Michelangelo said, â€Å"every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.† Take a moment to focus on that image. Writing is the same process, with one caveat. As the writer, you must first create the block of stone. Only then will you be able to see the statue waiting to be released. How does one create the block of stone? Well, at the risk of sounding glib, just write. A successful piece of writing requires two ingredients: time and words. That may sound trivial, but it is more important than it seems. Editing and revising are the most important steps of the process. Sure, drafting is what everyone thinks about, but the magic of the process happens during the editing and revising. I wrote an as of yet unpublished novel. My most current draft clocks in around 50,000 words (the lowest word count for a work of prose to be classified a novel). I’ve been working on it for over two years, using it to earn an MFA in creative writing. To reach the 50,000 words of my draft I wrote, over the course of two years, over 200,000. When I shared this information with my advisor, she responded: â€Å"Yeah, that’s about right.† If you are bogged down with a writing project, creative or academic, there is only one way to advance the project. Write words, lots of them. And then go back. This article is clocking in around 500 words. To write it, this being my final draft, I have written around 1000. Words and time. Those are the two secret ingredients everyone is searching for. It’s the key to winning the numbers game. Words and time. What are you waiting for? C. Acevedo is a freelance writer and content producer. You can read more from him or hire his services on CLAcevedo.com. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Writing Basics category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Definitely use "the" or "a"How to spell "in lieu of"Letter Writing 101

Explain ‘Natural Moral Law’ Essay Example

Explain ‘Natural Moral Law’ Essay Example Explain ‘Natural Moral Law’ Essay Explain ‘Natural Moral Law’ Essay Natural Law can be traced back into the Ancient Greek and Roman universes. In Sophocles’ drama Antigone’ . Natural Law is really evident throughout and the Hagiographas of the Greek Philosopher ; Aristotle. In his plants – Nicomachean Ethics’ – he wrote ; The natural is that which is everyplace. is every bit valid. and depends non upon being or non being received†¦that which is natural is unchangeable. and has the same power everyplace. ’ The Ancient Stoics emphasised the importance of Logos. or reason. that governs the universe and sees human nature as one natural order. They considered natural jurisprudence as a jurisprudence of right reason’ . In his missive to the Romans. St Paul wrote about a jurisprudence that is written in the hearts’ of Gentiles. It is hence clear that throughout the ancient universe. although there is differing nomenclature. at that place seems to hold been a consensus over the being of a natural moral jurisprudence. which dictated the rightness or inappropriateness of an action that was non dependent upon the Torahs created by society. St. Thomas Aquinas developed a Fuller history of this natural law’ in the 13th century. This theory is both deontological and absolutist and so his ensuing work is focused upon the ethicacy of actions. In his work Summa Theologica’ . Aquinas described natural jurisprudence as a moral codification. which exists within the intent of nature and was created by God. He says that it is present in every human being. Natural Law exists to help worlds. directing their actions in such away that they might run into their ageless fate. He argued that there was a basic jurisprudence. from which all the other natural Torahs derived. This was to prosecute good and avoid immorality. For Aquinas. both the purpose and the act are of import. this is because his theory is based on a chiefly deontological position. The lone terminal that he values is God as He is per se good. He believed that Acts of the Apostless are per se good or bad because when human existences act in conformity with their ultimate intent. God is glorified. Aquinas followed the line of idea that human existences are intelligent and therefore should be able to direct him or herself. this therefore significance that they can take duty for cognizing and making what God intends for them. Whether or non an act leads towards God depends on whether it fits the intent that worlds were made for. For Thomas Aquinas. the chief intent of human life is to continue the ego and the inexperienced person. to reproduce. worship God. get cognition and live in ordered society. . He names these the primary principles – Acts of the Apostless that are in conformity with these principles are good and those. which do non. are bad. He besides names them the secondary principles – which are opinions about things that we should or should non make because they uphold a primary principle. The theory of Natural Law as put frontward by Aquinas. is based upon the spiritual position that God created the universe. set uping in it a sense of order and intent. which is a direct representation of His will. In the natural jurisprudence attack to moralss. the action itself can either be natural or unnatural. and is judged on that footing. It does non depend for its moral jurisprudence justification upon any consequences. Therefore. harmonizing to natural jurisprudence. an action can be deemed good in itself. even if it brings about enduring. In decision. Natural Moral Law enables to set up regulations in order to construction a community. It gives a concrete ground to be moral and a steadfast footing from which to decline to step over moral boundaries. It provides justification and support for certain nucleus thoughts and it Judgess actions. irrespective of effects. Natural Moral Law isn’t merely merely a set of regulations. but a manner of life. It gives counsel on mundane inquiries on how to populate and associate them to the cardinal rules of life. It provides a complete system of moral life in measure with what it is to be human.

Group Treatment for Substance Abuse Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Group Treatment for Substance Abuse - Essay Example This situation usually arises after using these drugs and substances over a longer period of time that directly affects the working and functioning of brain and brain cells called neurons. This effect is usually in the form of addiction that is a disorder affecting brain connections such as those used in actions of reward and motivation, cognitive learning, memory skills, and controlling ones self and desires. With the increasingly alarming situation of substance abuse and drug addiction, experts worldwide has recognized it as one of the most critical problems rising at exponential rates. This has increased the needs and encouraged different methodologies that exist as effective and efficient treatment for the problem. Devising quick and effective treatment methods has become mandatory in order to protect and heal significant portion of worlds population from this illness. Group therapies are one of the most successful treatment methodologies in this regard; the reason that group therapies are most preferred is because of the effectiveness both in term of cost and performance. Nowadays, group therapies have emerged as the potential healing force bearing fruits that are hardly achieved in an individual or personal therapy setup. Another point in this regard is the fact that group therapies efficacious because it constantly use therapeutic powers like care, emotional and mental support, association, bonding, and peer encounter. These forces make the client strong enough to establish a bonding that encourage quick recovery and ensures effective healing. The other benefit of using group therapy is their efficacy in the treatment of problems that comes with addiction like depressive feelings, getting isolated from environment, shame, and guilt. Making groups or utilizing group therapies usually result in significant advantages to the group members. Group helps establishing a bond due to which

Temporary workers motivation Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Temporary workers motivation - Assignment Example Thus, their prime motivation is economics, to have a means of income to pay the bills and not so much of doing a good job. This will result in lower productivity and cases of inefficiency because employees are not that interested with the job except for the pay. This explains why most worker treat temporary jobs as fleeting jobs, one they should take advantage of while it is around. One of the best ways to motivate them is to follow Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs states that employees are motivated by degrees of needs all of which must be satisfied for an employee to have a higher productivity. To do this, management must offer employees more than a pay check to pay their bills. At present, employees only stay with the job because of the pay and nothing more. As a result, their productivity is not that high. Also, they tend to leave once there is a better paying job only to leave it again when a better paying job comes along without any significant improvement in productivity. To start with, employers must satisfy the physiological needs of their employees through a competitive pay. This will address the basic needs of its employees. Second, employers must also address the security or safety need of its employees. In the modern sense, security means not only free from physical harm or threat but to feel secure from the uncertainties of life. These uncertainties can be accident or sickness. If employers can offer health insurance to their employees, they will feel more secure to work in the company. Employers must also treat their employees well and promote camaraderie among its employees. The purpose of which is to address the social needs of its employees. Once they are attached to their fellow employees and company, they will tend to work better than not caring at all. Finally, the management must also address the esteem needs of its employees so that they will find meaning with their jobs. Addressing

The Role of Lead Users in New Product Development Essay

The Role of Lead Users in New Product Development - Essay Example This paper discusses that given the dynamic environment within which the marketing activity is carried out, there is no gain saying the fact that product innovation occupy a very prime position in the quest to maintain relevance in the market of a modern economy. As the report stresses lead users maybe defined as a sample population of a manufacturers intended market, who get to use a new product before it is actually launched in the market and name generally available to every would be user. A very important indicator of the health of a company is its customer satisfaction index. This all important indicator can be known only after a thorough market analysis, which can be achieved when the lead users approach is adopted. The ultimate aim in the mind of manufacturers is to make sales and by extensions make profit considering that more sales is a strong indicator of a company’s performance at any given time. Lead users aid market research because it results in systematic gathering, recording and analysis of every data concerning the response of the consumers to the new product. These are the potential customer base of the company and how they react is an indicator of market tendencies and effective business plans can then be created by the manufacturers. The most likely portion of the population to patronize the products are exposed via this approach to market analysis. At a very early stage product downsides are discovered and improved upon.

Parenting Today Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Parenting Today - Essay Example Planning for a divorce is not that easy because it does not only involve the couples, but it also involves their children; that is why it is best for the couple to find time to relax and plan on how they would manage their divorce. After they have planned everything out, they have to take it easy and have it step-by-step. In confronting their kids, the parents need to be honest and direct to the reason why they are planning to have a divorce. It is best to clarify to the children that it is not their fault, and they have nothing to do with the divorce. Explain to them what to expect and assure to them that they will be fine. In addition, give the children the full assurance that no matter what happens, their parents will always love them. Even though, they are not living in the same roof, but still both parents will take care of them. It is an important manner for both parents to have encouraged their children to express their thoughts and emotions. In this way, both parents can list en and will know how the children are struggling with the divorce, so that they can help them cope with the situation. Lastly, have an open communication with the other partner with regard to the children’s future and plans (â€Å"Children and divorce,† n.d.). Cases of teenage sexual intercourse are relatively increasing, and one initiative done by the government is to encourage teenagers to use proper contraceptives. However, some teenagers are still engaging unsafe sex and consequently result to teenage pregnancy. As a citizen, it is good to encourage teenagers to make use contraceptives in engaging sexual intercourse or rather yet not to engage in such dangerous actions. If so, enhancing the information to the teenagers will intensify their knowledge on the said issue, and making them aware all the possible negative consequences of doing such

The Effect of Democracy on FDI (Foreign Direct Investmant) Term Paper

The Effect of Democracy on FDI (Foreign Direct Investmant) - Term Paper Example There are a number of concerns that are made when considering the effects of democracy on foreign direct investment. Theoretical perspectives have consistently linked foreign direct investment to government policy. The pervading logic behind these investments is not a matter of great complexity. In these regards, investors have been understood to remain more apt to invest long-term companies and corporate interests based on the host country’s ability to create policy measures that are most conducive to such investment. The complexity emerges as theorists attempt to determine the appropriate government climate for such investments. Currently the United States receives the most foreign direct investments, leading economists to prominently link FDI to the democratic governmental structure (‘greyhill’). Within the confines of the democratic political structure there are a number of specific policy considerations that have been established. One of the most prominent th eoretical perspectives on this matter is that foreign direct investment is directly responsive to changing economic situations. Jensen notes, â€Å"Elected politicians can no longer manipulate monetary policy, but monetary policy does remain responsive to changing economic conditions† (Jensen, pg. 2). In this context of understanding, the nature of the democratic election process itself does not necessarily benefit foreign direct investment, but creates a governmental structure that is highly conducive to developing policies that aid FDI. The main notion is that the encouragement of foreign direct investment must be accomplished in a dynamic context and that the democratic governmental structure is most conducive to this dynamism. In addition to the importance of a dynamic government policy to foreign direct investment, there is a number of other of elements positive linking democracy to FDI in terms of stability. In these regards, pervasive notions of democratic governments having more stability are one of the primary contributors to an increase in FDI (Jensen). While such perspectives on the democratic political structure have been proven erroneous in specific contexts, one considers the current economic fallout in Greece as a primary example; it is oftentimes the perception that drives the reality. Another predominant link between democracy and FDI in terms of stability occurs as a result of the democratic process of checks and balances. Jensen notes, â€Å"The institutional checks and balances associated with democratic systems decrease the likelihood of policy reversal, providing multinationals with a de facto commitment to policy stability† (Jensen, pg. 4). With the stability afforded by these checks and balances, corporations are able to more accurately forecast future returns. Ultimately, it is this stability that greatly While there are considerable arguments for the linkage of democracy to foreign direct investment, counter-arguments ex ist to this proposition. The main notion is that the nature of governmental policy and foreign direct investment is not as multi-varied as some would contest. This perspective contends that the overwhelming link between foreign investments in a host country is the level of taxation. Jensen notes, â€Å"Conventional wisdom holds that nations woo multinationals by

An Analysis of the Significance of Guns as a Technology Essay

An Analysis of the Significance of Guns as a Technology - Essay Example Some of these groups had competed against each other for food and survival; those who lasted a bit longer managed to do so with the introduction of new technologies, the use of â€Å"advanced weaponry† through the use of javelins, spears, knives and arrows for big-game hunting. It may be right to say the first arms race among humans occurred between cavemen using wood clubs.1 Human societies progress and change over long periods of time through either of the two change processes: evolutionary and revolutionary change. The first is gradual while in the latter, it is a drastic change which entails an inflection point which is a break in the pattern of things. Inflection points are potentially disruptive, as what Andy Grove in giant chip maker of Intel pointed out, a change which people must embrace and adopt, in order to survive (Grove 105) because these points alter the existing paradigms and status quo and even risky at times. American sociologist William Fielding Ogburn descr ibed social change as either a material or non-material change (an example of material change was the introduction of the iron plow) or in the case of non-material change, the rise of capitalism and its opposite, communism. Discussion Many changes occurred as human societies and civilization progressed, which had in a way contributed greatly to our improvement. Ogburn traced social changes to introductions of new technologies, with three distinct phases in it, which are: invention, discovery and later, diffusion (Ogburn 77). Invention is the creation of something entirely new, such as a device. Discovery relates to the process of learning something that is totally new or ascertaining what is new as something that was previously overlooked or unrecognized. Diffusion is the spread of knowledge related to the invention and discovery to other groups of people able to use it. In this regard, gun technology underwent these three phases Ogburn had mentioned. Gun technology came about as th e direct consequence of the invention of gunpowder in China which changed weaponry to a great extent, in a sense people are now able to fight each other at some distance from each other, unlike before when they need to be in close proximity. This development has a profound effect on warfare, colonization, empire building, the spread of human civilization, religion and culture; the entire trajectory of human history has been in a way influenced by the discovery of gunpowder and the development of gun technology. Even today, modern societies are shaped to a certain extent by the use of guns in a violent manner, such as the rise of drug cartels and other organized international crime syndicates. Ancient Chinese had accidentally discovered gunpowder in their search for an elixir for immortality (the equivalent of the Fountain of Youth) but used this new-found formula for fireworks displays in attempts to drive away evil spirits but soon adapted its explosive power to the art of warfare in the use of artillery, and later on, in firearms and handguns. A diffusion of this knowledge was spread by the Mongols in their conquest of Europe and the Asian plain. It followed exactly the pattern of three phases as enumerated by sociologist Ogburn.2 Significance of Gun Technology – the invention and acquisition of gun technologies allowed the Western countries to dominate the world in the earlier

Parenting Today Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Parenting Today - Essay Example Planning for a divorce is not that easy because it does not only involve the couples, but it also involves their children; that is why it is best for the couple to find time to relax and plan on how they would manage their divorce. After they have planned everything out, they have to take it easy and have it step-by-step. In confronting their kids, the parents need to be honest and direct to the reason why they are planning to have a divorce. It is best to clarify to the children that it is not their fault, and they have nothing to do with the divorce. Explain to them what to expect and assure to them that they will be fine. In addition, give the children the full assurance that no matter what happens, their parents will always love them. Even though, they are not living in the same roof, but still both parents will take care of them. It is an important manner for both parents to have encouraged their children to express their thoughts and emotions. In this way, both parents can list en and will know how the children are struggling with the divorce, so that they can help them cope with the situation. Lastly, have an open communication with the other partner with regard to the children’s future and plans (â€Å"Children and divorce,† n.d.). Cases of teenage sexual intercourse are relatively increasing, and one initiative done by the government is to encourage teenagers to use proper contraceptives. However, some teenagers are still engaging unsafe sex and consequently result to teenage pregnancy. As a citizen, it is good to encourage teenagers to make use contraceptives in engaging sexual intercourse or rather yet not to engage in such dangerous actions. If so, enhancing the information to the teenagers will intensify their knowledge on the said issue, and making them aware all the possible negative consequences of doing such

An Analysis of the Significance of Guns as a Technology Essay

An Analysis of the Significance of Guns as a Technology - Essay Example Some of these groups had competed against each other for food and survival; those who lasted a bit longer managed to do so with the introduction of new technologies, the use of â€Å"advanced weaponry† through the use of javelins, spears, knives and arrows for big-game hunting. It may be right to say the first arms race among humans occurred between cavemen using wood clubs.1 Human societies progress and change over long periods of time through either of the two change processes: evolutionary and revolutionary change. The first is gradual while in the latter, it is a drastic change which entails an inflection point which is a break in the pattern of things. Inflection points are potentially disruptive, as what Andy Grove in giant chip maker of Intel pointed out, a change which people must embrace and adopt, in order to survive (Grove 105) because these points alter the existing paradigms and status quo and even risky at times. American sociologist William Fielding Ogburn descr ibed social change as either a material or non-material change (an example of material change was the introduction of the iron plow) or in the case of non-material change, the rise of capitalism and its opposite, communism. Discussion Many changes occurred as human societies and civilization progressed, which had in a way contributed greatly to our improvement. Ogburn traced social changes to introductions of new technologies, with three distinct phases in it, which are: invention, discovery and later, diffusion (Ogburn 77). Invention is the creation of something entirely new, such as a device. Discovery relates to the process of learning something that is totally new or ascertaining what is new as something that was previously overlooked or unrecognized. Diffusion is the spread of knowledge related to the invention and discovery to other groups of people able to use it. In this regard, gun technology underwent these three phases Ogburn had mentioned. Gun technology came about as th e direct consequence of the invention of gunpowder in China which changed weaponry to a great extent, in a sense people are now able to fight each other at some distance from each other, unlike before when they need to be in close proximity. This development has a profound effect on warfare, colonization, empire building, the spread of human civilization, religion and culture; the entire trajectory of human history has been in a way influenced by the discovery of gunpowder and the development of gun technology. Even today, modern societies are shaped to a certain extent by the use of guns in a violent manner, such as the rise of drug cartels and other organized international crime syndicates. Ancient Chinese had accidentally discovered gunpowder in their search for an elixir for immortality (the equivalent of the Fountain of Youth) but used this new-found formula for fireworks displays in attempts to drive away evil spirits but soon adapted its explosive power to the art of warfare in the use of artillery, and later on, in firearms and handguns. A diffusion of this knowledge was spread by the Mongols in their conquest of Europe and the Asian plain. It followed exactly the pattern of three phases as enumerated by sociologist Ogburn.2 Significance of Gun Technology – the invention and acquisition of gun technologies allowed the Western countries to dominate the world in the earlier

Why Beloved Should Still Be Taught in Schools Essay Example for Free

Why Beloved Should Still Be Taught in Schools Essay The concept of having Beloved banned in public schools is just a ludicrous idea and should be removed by the schools that currently enforce it. Although many students may not like reading, the book helped me realize the importance of the things I take for granted after reading the book. Beloved should still be taught in schools because of the major values it teaches including racism, family, and the true meaning of freedom. Beloved helps recognize the true meaning of freedom due to the many past experiences that are played out in the story. An example of freedom in the book is how harsh and cruel schoolteacher was to all of the slaves on the plantation. From Mr. Garner to schoolteacher, the conversion was horrific. Mr. Garner treated his slaves with respect and even gave his slaves last names, something that they had never had before. The chokecherry tree is a significant piece in the story because it is a collection of scars from all the whippings that Sethe had and is a memory of everything that she wen t through when she was still a slave. All the whippings that she received from schoolteacher align into the shape of a chokecherry tree. A final point of slavery is how Halle worked to buy Baby Suggs her freedom. After many years on the plantation and excruciating pain, Halle thought it was only right to free Baby Suggs from Sweet Home. Another important lesson that the story teaches is the value of family through the events that occur at 124. For example, the character Paul D is a character that falls in and out of the story. In the beginning of the book, Paul D temporarily stays with Sethe setting the tone that Paul D, Sethe, and Denver could all work together as a family. â€Å"The shadows of three people still held hands. (Morrison 49) As explained in the quote, the three of them held hands via shadow when they went to the carnival and seemed like everything would work out in harmony, all until Beloved was brought into the picture and throws off the balance in the house. The importance of family is also explained when Denver, Beloved, and Sethe develop a relationship upon each other developing the concept of she is â€Å"mine†. â€Å"You are mine†,( repeated three times by each character)( Morrison217) A final example of love for family is the point in the book when Sethe killed Beloved for her wn benefit to protect Beloved from being raised into slavery. A final example of why Beloved should still be taught in schools is because of the various points of views that it has on racism which is what connects all the characters in the story together. Sethe had been raped, robbed of her milk, and conditions forced her to kill her daughter Beloved. Paul D had been imprisoned in a cube in an all blacks prison after attempted murder, and Stamp Paid was forced to give his wife away to another white man who took his wife away for over a year. One of the racist events that occurs in the book is when Sethe was branded, lashed out, and thought of as a baby mill to her master thus putting her in inhumane conditions where she is treated and worked like an animal. Another incident of racism is when Sethe is at work and a woman is making racist remarks towards Sethe. A final example of racism in the book, is a time with Paul D where he is muzzled and gagged so he cannot speak or make any comments, putting him in poor work conditions and under schoolteacher’s rule, being treated like an animal. The poor memories that Paul D does not want to remember are stored in his â€Å"tobacco tin†.