Perspectives on Inequality and Poverty Essay Example for Free

Perspectives on Inequality and Poverty Essay Our society today is currently experiencing a widening of the gap between the rich and the poor. As the saying goes, â€Å"the rich is getting richer and the poor is getting poorer,† our society attests to such truth, where the wealthy is gaining more money while the poor’s case is getting worse by the minute. Poverty is a big problem ever since the dawn of man. In an ideal world, the number of resources produced could feed more than any of the hungry mouths all over the world. But in reality, wealth is not distributed properly to every living individual. There are those who get more as compared to those who get less or get nothing at all. The sad reality If you take into consideration every living individual in a certain community, only a small fraction of its population enjoy living a well-off life, and a majority suffer from lack of resources or doesn’t have enough to fill their stomachs. A fraction of imbalance in the distribution of resources and wealth affects a greater number of people, wherein the sad reality lies on whom are the ones getting much and who are the ones gaining a lot. This is the sad reality in our society, where people thrive in a world filled with inequality and sadly, majority of the people suffer from the extra gains of some people (Besley Cord, 2007). Class inequality can be traced way back in the history of men, when people learned to classify themselves, making some superior and some, well, rather inferior. Another sad reality is that the ones who are in the higher echelons of the society are the ones who are not doing actual hard labor. These people are the one’s capitalizing from the hard work of the poor working class, sweating their lungs out, literally giving their sweat and blood just to make money. This labor force is the one who is actually earning the money; it is their effort and strength that makes the real cash, not the ones bossing them around. But the harshness of life is reflected in this situation: the ones working hard gets paid less, barely enough to make a living out of it, while the ones bossing everyone around gets a much bigger share, wherein they have exerted minimal or no real effort in doing so (Kohl, 2003). This is the present situation of the working class of the past, the present, and maybe of the future. There are some great thinkers who have pondered on these things so to speak. This people, though separated by different views, expressed their opinions about how inequalities in the classes happen and why poverty exists, depending on how they see the situation. Their take on the realities are reciprocated by approval or by rejection from the people looking at their ideas. Some may seem radical to others, but some deem that is the necessary thought for that certain specific topic. These great thinkers include Karl Marx, Max Weber and Oscar Lewis.

Human Behavior And The Social Environment Philosophy Essay

Human Behavior And The Social Environment Philosophy Essay Skinner is a radical behaviorist and determinist who proposed that human behavior is controlled by objective observable factors such as environmental conditions and genetic factors. He suggested that human behavior can be classified into two types: respondents and operants. Respondents are behaviors that caused by environmental stimulus while operants are behaviors that act on the environment. He asserted that both respondents and operants are totally controlled by the environment. The main difference of these two kinds of behaviors is the nature of the control. Respondent is elicited by an environmental stimulus while operant occurs before the environmental stimulus. The environmental consequences which due to operants will control the behaviors that follows. There are three major ways that the environmental consequences can control behaviors: reinforcement, punishment and extinction. Inner State Skinner defined inner state such as feelings and emotions as a predisposition to act which means affecting the probability of occurrence in certain behaviors. He claimed that inner state is the effects of genetic make-up and personal experiences rather than the cause of behaviors. Thinking and Decision Making Skinner perceived thinking as a kind of behavior which is also affected by our own past experiences and through others instructions. A kind of thinking that Skinner mentioned is decision making which is closely related to making choices. Skinner asserted that free choices do not exist. Our past experiences, behaviors and behavioral consequences control the decisions or choices that we make. Freedom According to Skinner (1971), Freedom is a matter of contingencies of reinforcement, not of the feelings the contingencies generate (p. 38). He defined freedom as a behavioral process but nothing related to the state of mind. He believes that freedom can be partly experienced when we could avoid or escape from aversive elements of the environment. However, we still cant free ourselves from the environment. Self- Control Although Skinner emphasized that behaviors are entirely controlled, our determined behaviors can modify the physical and social environments which exert different effects on our behavior, thus controlling ourselves indirectly. He believed that the behavior which causes aversive consequences can be controlled by negative reinforcement such as avoiding or escaping from the situation in order to reduce the probability of being punished. The Perspective from Rogers Rogers took the humanistic phenomenology approach (Nye, p. 98) to understand human development. Self-Actualization Rogers believed that self-actualization, which includes personal growth and realization of basic potentialities, exists in human. He suggested that we should not set any absolute limit to the level of actualization as our full potential is always an unknown based on our present knowledge. Inner Human Experiencing To study human behavior, Roger emphasized the importance of inner human experiencing. This refers to evaluating ourselves subjectively such as our thoughts and feelings and trying to understand others empathetically. The Self Theory The subjective awareness of ourselves and the surrounding environment are the most important determinants of behaviors. The objective reality of the environment is not an important factor that determines behaviors. This means that the realistic self-concept develops a perception of the external reality and the circumstance in which we find ourselves, thus affecting behaviors. Unconditional Positive Regard Rogers suggested that positive regards are innate needs of humans, which include love, acceptance and respect. These needs are usually fulfilled by others who are in intimate relationships with us. Unconditional positive regards mean these needs can be fulfilled simply because we, as humans, are worthy. When these needs are not given unconditionally, especially in childhood, then there is a higher possibility for unfavorable characteristics to be developed. On the contrary, conditioned positive regards refer to regards that are only given when we meet others expectations. The key differences in viewing human development between Skinner and Rogers Views on Human Nature In Rogers approach, he assumed that we naturally have an actualizing tendency and are growth-motivated persons (Nye, p. 135). On the other hand, Skinner viewed humans as environmentally controlled persons (Nye, p. 135) who are being predisposed and manipulated since birth to become products of the environment. Views on Personality Development Regarding personality development, Skinner stressed that it depends primarily on the outcomes that our behaviors have. We all have different personalities which make us as unique persons because there are differences in our reinforcement histories. The stronger the history of positive reinforcement is, the more likely for us to well-develop a favorable personality. Differently, Roger believed that humans have the potential to maintain an ever-upward spiraling in development if we are exposed to unconditional positive regards. Views on Human Behavior Although Rogers admitted that there is an influence of the environment on human behaviors, he stressed that the subjective, inner feelings and experiences play the most significant role in determining behaviors. In contrast, Skinner insisted that our behaviors are merely controlled by genetic and environmental factors but not any of our inner states. He believed that we are controlled by the environment in three major ways: reinforcement, extinction and punishment. Views on Freedom When it comes to freedom, Rogers perceived it as something inner, subjective and existential. As long as the openness and responsiveness to the totality of our experiencing are developed within us, we could experience a sense of freedom and choose the way we behave. On the other hand, Skinner argued that freedom is nothing related to the state of mind. Humans are not free to decide our own fates but are determined by the environment. My commentary on Rogers and Skinner Perspectives I prefer Rogers over Skinner perspective on human development. I think that Skinner over-emphasized on behavior control which is dehumanizing and might indirectly mislead the society to treat persons as objects or machines which to be manipulated. I tried to imagine how my life would have become if Rogers perspective didnt ever existed and my personal beliefs were all based on Skinners approach. All of my behaviors and experiences were predetermined and being controlled which I did not have any choices at all. I couldnt experience the sense of satisfaction from what I endeavored to achieve since i would believe that favorable environment was the only reason which contributed to my success. It would be discouraging and my life would have less meaning. On the other hand, Rogers perspective makes me feel optimistic towards life by believing that the potential for growth and actualization reside within myself. Despite things are falling apart in times of adversity, I still live with hope and strongly believe that I am equipped with the power to overcome difficulties and live a better life in the future. Rogers perspective enhanced my self-understanding especially through the concept of unconditional positive regards. According to my own personal experiences, I strongly agree with Rogers that unconditional positive regards are prominent to the development of a healthy, fully functioning person. In my childhood, I had learnt that love and acceptance could only be gained with the condition that I was well-behaved, independent and expressed with favorable feelings and emotions. As a result, I have been experiencing psychological discomforts over the years with the feeling of being broken. I mean there is a large discrepancy between my actual and ideal self which Rogers called it as incongruence (Nye, 2000, p. 110). Moreover, I appreciated Rogers who had taken an inclusive approach to study human development which involves objective, subjective and empathic perspectives. He paid great attention to the inner state of human while at the same time didnt deny that the environment affects how we behave. All, in all, I think both perspectives have its interest to offer and undoubtedly allowed me to enhance self-understanding, the behaviors of others as well as the effects of the physical and social environment. Although the understanding of theories on human development is important, I believe that we should keep in mind not to overlook each individuals unique personality and experiences nor over-generalize individuals by imposing these theories on them.

Current market situation of Tesco

Current market situation of Tesco Tesco Plc is the UKs largest retailer and the 4th in the world (after Wal-Mart, Carrefour and Metro AG). Tesco was established in 1919 by Jack Cohen. The Tesco brand first appeared in 1924. Then the first Tesco store was opened in 1929 in Burnt Oak, Edgware, London. Tescos businesses operate in the Europe, the USA and Asia with over 470,000 employees. In 2010 their revenue was in excess of  £56,910 million which was an increase of 5.6% over 2009. The operating profit of the company in 2010 was  £3,457 million which was grown 9.1% comparing to 2009. The net profit was rose by 9.3% over 2009 with  £2,336 million and  £2,138 million respectively. With approximately 4,800 stores in 14 countries around the world, its products and services include: Store types: Extra, Superstore, Metro, Express, Homeplus, Tesco.com Store offerings: Food Retail, Non-Food Retail, Petrol Stations, Home Living Range Tesco Personal Finance: (Tesco Bank) Life Insurance, Pet Insurance, Home Insurance, Travel Insurance, Motor Insurance, Credit cards, Savings Accounts, Personal Loans, Secure Investment Bonds, Online Mortgage Finder Tesco Telecom: Dial up internet access, Broadband, Tesco mobile value SIM, Tesco mobile network, Mobile phones 2/ With about 24% revenue of the total, non-food is a business generates the most revenue of Tesco. In 2010, group non-food sales rose 6.2% to  £13.1 billion with  £9.0 billion in the UK and  £4.1 billion in International. The non food retailing was created with the multi arrangements and they focus on price strategy that low cost structure together with improved merchandising skills. Teesport as an example that help them get better, simpler and cheaper. Moreover, a non-food performance is significantly very strong in the UK with steadily improving like-for-like sales during the year to add another leg to growth. Although the downturn, non-food performance has been definitely resilient and contributed to bring Tesco becomes one of the top retailers in the world. 3/ UK is one of the most important key strategies of Tesco. UK has delivered a good performance in a challenging market achieving a 4.2% increase in sales with profits rising 6.7% to  £2.4 billion in 2010. They focus on helping customers spend less time and price with new products and high quality services to earn customers faithful. Clubcard is example for thank you to their customers. Customers earned  £550 million in voucher from Clubcard. However, they have faced a number of impediments of the UK retail market. In addition, according to the Competition Commissions report that it is actually not easy for a competitor to challenge its scale. Therefore, Tesco still remains the top position of domestic market. 4/ Tescos international business is growing steadily and they are non-stop trying to expand its business to over the world. Although there is a challenging global economic environment and the start-up losses in US business, Tesco significantly keeps a symbol for a gigantic development today when their international business generates 22% with 16% of the Retailing Services markets of profits and  £19.4 billion of group sales in 2010. Increasingly, Tesco draws on their skill and capabilities to utilize their international sourcing such as FF clothing now in ten countries, Discount Brands now in seven markets, Clubcard was introduced in seven countries with more Clubcard holders internationally than in the UK. They will also open 8.5 million square feet in addition in 2011. Tescos strategy is working we have grown sales, profits and market shares and we have continued to invest in the drivers of future growth. Moreover, beside Europe and US, Asia is definitely a potential market when they increase 23.9% of profits with  £9,072 million of sales in 2010. Tesco has continued regional strength and grown well although the economics have been on crisis. 5/ In 2007, Tesco became the UKs largest non-food retailer and the similar trends are occurring in Europe. Additionally, Tesco took part in a joint venture with O2 to found the Tesco Mobile mobile virtual network operator by 2007. One year later, they were the number one mobile network in UK customer service. Furthermore, in 2008, Tesco combined in a joint venture with the Royal Bank of Scotland with 50% share holding and their revenue was  £49,522 million on this year although the economic downturn. Q2. 1/ Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is one of the most important parts of company to take the interests of all stakeholders through their decision-making processes which is balanced with shareholders benefits. Tescos opinion is that CRS is not a specialist function in Tesco, it is a part of everybodys job every day. They use Steering Wheel a balanced scorecard of the key elements of their business to create the new Community Promises: Actively supporting local communities Buying and selling our products responsibly Caring for the environment Giving customers healthy choices Creating good jobs and careers Particularly, the Community Plans are used for all markets and help them change the way they do business, for example by reducing our carbon emissions. Through Customer Question Times (CQTs), meetings and surveys, Tesco talks to customers and other stakeholders in each region to identify local priorities. Moreover, throughout the year 2010, Tesco gave over  £60 million in donations to charities and contributions to community projects including cause-related marketing, gifts-inkind, staff time and management costs. In the other hand, 16,000 jobs were created in Tesco this year including 9,000 in the UK. 2/ Sustainability are not only a project but it is also a way of business and consumers expect it. The Sustainable Consumption Institute (SCI) was established with a  £25 million commitment to the University of Manchester. The SCI aims to perform some subjects about how to make a consumer society sustainable. There are some actions which Tesco have done to respond to the challenge of sustainability as: Sustainable products (Biofuels, Palm oil, Genetically modified (GM) foods, Timber): help customers reduce their carbon footprint and decrease their use of fossil fuels, reduce the chances of deforestation and controls on CO2 emissionsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Supporting UK farmers (suppliers): The Tesco Sustainable Beef Project launched in 2008 to improve productivity and profitability as well as the tenderness and flavour of beef. The Tesco Sustainable Dairy Group (TSDG) was established in 2008 to provide expertise in cattle health and welfare for farmers. Forum for the Future: Tesco works with leading organizations in business and the public sector to create a sustainable future as the sustainable development charity. 3/ Climate change is continuously the main strategic challenge in CSR of Tesco. Among their endeavour to engage employees overcome climate change, Energy Champions is appeared in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Malaysia, Poland, Slovakia, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey and the UK. Energy Champions are responsible for reducing energy consumption in stores through engaging staff and implementing energy-saving measures. Tescos climate change programme has three main parts: Leading by example: reducing our own direct carbon footprint Working with our supply chains and partners to reduce emissions more broadly Leading a revolution in green consumption. Extraordinarily, Tesco uses a 50:50 biodiesel mix in their own vehicles; offering Clubcard points for customers to reusing carrier bags, and their customers have took over 400 million fewer free plastic bags by the end of April 2007; putting an aero plane symbol on all air-freighted products because this method of transport results in far higher carbon emissions than any other. 4/ Remarkably, Tesco asked for stakeholders feedback on their quality, material issues, strategy and performance. Particularly, there are some evidences with external stakeholders as follow: Customers: Using Customer Question Time (CQT) to identify customers changing needs and help them listen to customers responses on quality and service. Suppliers: Organizing regular meetings with suppliers, processors, manufacturers and get feedback of them by annual Viewpoint survey. Additionally, Tesco provides training course and capacity building for suppliers in appropriate places. Producer Clubs was launched to share experiences together. Governments and regulators: Planning processes and consultations on new regulations including healthy eating and alcohol. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): In 2008, Tesco operated many meetings with NGOs to discuss issues including climate change, biofuels, ethical trading and animal welfare. They also provide information as request and take part to research and surveys from NGOs. Q3. 1/ As many large corporations, Tesco have been criticized by others companies, writers and organizations. The major way that Tesco have applied is issue writs for criminal defamation and civil libel. Then, they involved in litigation for claims form personal injury from customers, staff and other commercial matters (for example, against The Guardian newspaper about corporation tax in 2007). In the other hand, Tesco usually faced to opposition by government and local people to their expansion. They must adjust their plan to adapt requirement of them (for example, Tesco open a store in Birmingham in 2007; a No Mill Road Tesco campaign is against Tesco opening a store on Cambridges Mill Road in 2007). In some cases, Tesco must retreat their plans (for example, Tesco build a store in Tonypandy, South Wales in 2008 and a store on Hope Street, Liverpool in 2009). 2/ In the financial year 2008 2009, Tesco like other large companies, they also decreased on the market because of the economics downturn. Unquestioningly, Tesco has an abundant capability in the finance market with reputation brand. However, its non-stop in that, Tesco decided to tie up with the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) in 2008 with 50% of share holding. RBS operates in insurance and banking. They have a good market position with  £49,522 million of revenue in 2008. After cooperating with RBS, Tesco launched consumer banking to service customers needs and loyalty. They offered the bank accounts to the customers for saving time. It can be clearly seen that it appears a reciprocal relation on their businesses between retail and banking. Actually, consumer banking is a good way to sustain the facilities of retailing services which support to their major business as well. Through the deal, Tesco entered the financial market and handled the financial crisis impressively with  £5 00 million profit in 2009. Total customers are  £5.5 million with  £1.3 million of Bank Credit card accounts. Basically, that is a strategic decision which helps Tesco not only overcame the difficult period but also continuously grow with the successful efforts. Q4. 1/ In 2010, with 287,669 employees and 2,482 stores, Tesco has a significant growth in the core UK business. Then, the UK still remains as the biggest market of Tesco with  £38,558 million of revenue which is increased 4.2% in 2010. In fact, although two-thirds of the groups shop floor space is now overseas, but two-thirds of group sales and 70% of profits still come from the UK. They offer five types of stores including Metro, Extra, Express, Homeplus and Superstore. In addition, non-food retailing market is continued a goal which Tesco aims. Group non-food sales rose 6.2% to  £13.1 billion with  £9 billion in UK in 2010. It evidences that their business has been very strong through the economics crisis. They focus on improving greater value to get more customers who have been encouraged to try non-food range with some key categories such as electrical, entertainment, toys and clothing. 2/ Core Strength: Tesco is currently ranked the third largest global grocery retailer but the second largest based on profit behind Wal-Mart with approximately 4,810 stores in 14 countries within the Europe, the USA and Asia. In addition, the company occupied 30.7% share of the UK grocery retail market in 2010. One of the strategic capabilities of Tesco is a strong financial performance. In 2010, their revenue rose to 5.6% with around  £56,910 million comparing to 2009. The products and services are provided in accordance with the market demands is the first strategy of them. Taking full advantage of development and usefulness of internet over the world, online non-food retail (Tesco Direct) business has significantly matured over 50% through 2009. Tesco provides Clubcard to give customers greater reward for their loyalty to increase investment. Today Tesco has 15 million active Clubcard holders over seven countries in the world. 3/ Undoubtedly, Tesco is actually a leader on innovation to achieve the high profit and position on business. Innovative products and services is becoming a major competitive advantage in the retailing industry today. Therefore, Tesco focuses on better value of services and products than concentrate on pricing alone. Additionally, the companys aim is improving customers shopping experience as easy as possible (many types of stores). Furthermore, Tescos innovation success is ability to control margin well. There are many kinds of goods with low price or sometime an amazing price. Clubcard is also a great success of Tescos innovation. It attracts consumers and influences the behavior of secondary customers to bring them into the fold. Q5. 1/ Tescos vision is to strive and achieve the highest standards, to ensure the long-term access to quality produce and maintain their position as the UKs number 1 of supermarket. Their core purpose is To create value for customers to earn their lifetime loyalty through their values are No-one tries harder for customers by Understand customers; Be first to meet their needs; Act responsibly for our communities and they Treat people as we like to be treated. It can be clearly seen that the way they treat their customers, staffs and suppliers in a culture of Trust and respect each other would help them to raise not only their profits but also their Cooperate Social Responsibilities in where their businesses operate. 2/ Tescos mission statement is to retain loyal customers. That means they want people shop at Tesco frequently and permanently. To achieve the statement, they must set themselves aims. Tesco aims are to maintain customers with excellent values for their money and the top customer service. Customers can enjoy different experiences through many kinds of ranges such as goods and services and many types of stores including luxurious stores. In the other hand, they offer low prices to attract more customers. Furthermore, Tesco also keep their customers loyal to them by providing Clubcard to encourage customers shopping with them to get extra points and special voucher. In fact that Tesco revenue is continuously increased annual. Additionally, Tesco defined their mission clearly with what is the main segment they focus on. Therefore, Tesco significantly have a right strategy and action to support their mission. 3/ Tescos objectives are: To be a successful international retailer To grow the core UK business To be as strong in non-food as in food To develop retailing services such as Tesco Personal Finance, Telecoms and Tesco.com To put community at the heart of what we do Tesco comprehends what they pay attention and their capacities. Undoubtedly, profit is always the first concern of all companies and their shareholders. They expand their sales and profit by focusing on the UK business, non-food and retailing services as well as maintaining their position as the number one retail company in the UK and the top retail company in the world. Accomplishing these targets mean that Tesco surpasses their competitors and preserves the market leader. Moreover, providing goods and services that is cheap and affordable to consumers or the public as a strategy will also support Tescos objectives. Tesco demonstrates that they are trying to achieve their goals totally with successful efforts during past time. 4/ People are entirely a key strategy that every company has to focus on. To motivate staffs Tesco offers a competitive salary, an opportunity to develop a long-term varied career with quality training and especially many good benefits. Basically, all employees have healthcare cash plan and a chance to join pension scheme from the day they start. Some managers and senior managers will be provided private medical insurance. Others policies are standard 20 days for holiday, then 25 days for five year service at Tesco. A lot of staffs work in part-time, thus they are also offered emergency leave, career breaks, shift swaps and flexible hours. Additionally, Tesco built affordable housing to offer for its employees in London. Moreover, staffs are encouraged to involve in the financial performance of the company through a variety of schemes, principally the Tesco employee profit-sharing scheme (Shares in Success), the savings related share option scheme (Save As You Earn) and the partnersh ip share plan (Buy As You Earn). Remarkably,  £175 million payout was shared for all staffs through Save As You Earn (Sharesave) scheme with high appreciates of employees. Above all others, Tesco give a strategy to make its staffs understand and want to contribute their best to the companys development through the companys values.

The Berlin Wall :: European History Cold War

The Berlin Wall Throughout the history of the World, there are many great facts, and things to learn. There is an abundance of information out there not only about our country but about the rest of the world also. After researching the Berlin Wall, I was quite interested, and did not realize what I was missing out on about the past history of our world. I am going to share all that I learned about the Berlin Wall, and how it made a difference in our past and future times.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Berlin Wall was built on the night between 12th and 13th August 1961. Everyone always asks why the Berlin Wall was built and what did it stand for. In 1945, following World War II, Germany was divided into two countries - East Germany and West Germany. East Germany was controlled by the communist regime of the Soviet Union while West Germany became a democracy supported by the United States. Berlin, the former capital city, although entirely within East German borders, was also split into two. On August 13, 1961, the German Democratic Republic (GDR) decided to block off East Berlin and West Berlin by means of a barbed wire. Streets were torn up, and barricades erected. Rail lines and the subway between East and West Berlin was torn up. People of East Berlin and the GDR were no longer allowed to enter West Berlin disrupting 60,000 commuters who were employed in West Berlin. Within the year, construction work began to build a solid wall separating the two cities. The German Democratic Republic along with 60,000 commuters, under the leadership of Erich Honecker. The Berlin Wall fell down on November 9th, 1989. In my opinion, the Berlin Wall was built simply because; Germany was controlled by Communist Regime, and by the Soviet Union. Those two groups are not going to get along, and that is why I believe they were split up.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Since I learned to read music, and play it well, it has been a large part of my life. I learned that just playing the note on the page perfect is not music. To play music well, you have to feel it in your body, spirit, mind, and soul. The music that has been picked out this year, in my opinion, is the best music I have ever played. My favorite is 2nd Dawning, and not just because I have to write about it, but it really is.

Japan :: essays research papers

In 1868, Japan underwent radical changes in social aspects as well as economic matters. A ministry of education was soon created in 1872, and in the same year, a strict education code was formulated. The government greatly wanted to industrialize in order to prevent foreign rule. The government sent students to Europe and America in order to learn Western ways. In 1877 the first college, the University of Tokyo was created. Japan quickly became more Western like. Japan in order to increase its industry needed raw materials something in, which the mainland lacked. The only way to gain these was by buying from larger countries or conquering new territory, which had the needed raw materials. Japan wished to gain footholds in Korea, China, and Manchuria but at the time, Russia had already gained footholds in these areas. Japan’s greatly modern military easily defeated the Chinese army and navy over the matter of Korea in the Sino-Japanese war. (Encarta Japan)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1894, Nicholas the 2nd ascended to the throne of Russia. Although he was a good man he was a weak ruler easily dominated by others. With revolutionary trouble at home and the disagreement over Manchuria with Japan, turmoil soon broke out in Russia. Afterward, a compromise with Japan on the Manchuria issue was unsuccessful. Diplomatic ties were broken in early 1904, which prompted a surprise attack, by the Japanese navy on Port Author. The attack was hugely successful. Many of the Russian ships were damaged or destroyed in the attack. News of this brought great civil strife in Russia with a revolutionary fever in the air the people called for reform but the Czar declined the warning. (Encarta Russia)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In March 1904 the Japanese 1st Army landed at Chemulp’o. It faced Russian forces on the Yalu river by late April. The Russian commander, General Aleksey Kuropatkin decided to hold defensive position until reinforcements arrived. The Japanese commander however built up a 6 to 1 troop advantage and a breech of the Yalu river was forced on May 1st. During May the Japanese 2nd army landed on the Liaodong peninsula. It quickly severed communications between Port Author and the Russian forces in Manchuria. It then captured Kinchow and won the battle of Nanshan on May 30th. Soon the 2nd army besieged Port Author. The Russian commander Kuropatkin was personally ordered by Nicolas the 2nd to hold Port Author. Kuropatkin decided to move his main forces to Liaoyang.

Rape- How Can We Change :: essays research papers

Rape– How Can We Change? Although the country has seen crime rates plummet in recent years, rape continues to be a major concern in America. According to Annette Fuentes’ article, "Crime Rates Are Down... But What About Rape?" in Ms. magazine, "an estimated fifteen percent of women are raped or molested at some point in their lives" (22). While big cities such as Boston, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York have seen the rates of violent crimes such as murder, robbery, and aggravated assault plummet, rape has not been so fortunate. In most of these cities, reported cases of rape have declined by only a few percentage points, whereas in some of these cities, reported cases of rape have actually increased. Rape is an epidemic that is slowly plaguing our entire nation, and unless some drastic action is taken immediately, this epidemic may never be cured. If we are truly interested in having our nation cleansed of this disease, we must begin by removing from our minds the notion that rape occurs only among the poor. When asked to comment on the brutality of rape, Roger Crafts, the Dean of "Student Affairs" at Brandeis University said: "I do not think that we have a significant problem here because we have a sophisticated and intelligent group of students" (Sweet 93). Dean Crafts went on to mention that "vandalism and physical harm are more likely to occur with lower educational levels" (93). Mr. Crafts’ feelings on the subject of rape concur with those of "middle class America." Most of us feel that rape occurs only in the lower socioeconomic classes of America and not amongst those with higher educational backgrounds. Contrary to most of our beliefs, rape exists in the upper and middle classes as well, but in most cases goes unreported due to a various number of reasons. Fortunately, in recent years, the occurrences of violent rapes (those that are committed by unidentified men who forcibly attack women and then proceed to rape them) are slowly decreasing. Unfortunately, "date rapes," which were virtually unknown a generation ago, have now become commonplace. Unlike, violent rapes, a date rape is committed by someone who is known to the victim. In these types of situations, the rapist can sometimes be even the victim’s best friend. A "date rape" can leave emotional scars much deeper than those that are left from a violent rape because the prior is committed by someone whom the victim has an attachment to.

Journey Humanities

Celeste Mompremier Professor Watts HUM1020-41 September 25, 2018 Flynn, Brenda. Journey. 2002. Mosaic tile on fiberglass armature. My overall museum experience was amazing. Since its been eight years since I have been to a museum, it was kind of new to me. But seeing all of the beautiful sculptures just blew me away. I was amazed by how much time and effort these people put in making such perfect artwork. I was also impressed by all the gifts these people have in making sculptures. I would definitely not have any talent in making these sculptures, that's for sure. I really enjoyed eyeing these sculptures in real life. I think that there are advantages in seeing art in real life because I believe that you get a much better understanding of art by seeing it in-person. Also, it can make you think more about the true meaning of art. I think that museums are relevant places to study humanities because they help us learn more about human culture. Museums help us grasp our attention more on our human history. We end up understanding our culture more. Also, it's fun to learn about art. Museums are important in understanding our culture because they help our newer generation learn about our history. No matter what, history should always be remembered and never forgotten. I also think that people of different backgrounds can learn better at museums because of the artwork from our ancestors of the same heritage. I think that the difference between something authentic and a copy is possibly the texture. I feel like that actual artist put so much care and time and effort in his or her artwork. But the other artist, although he or she did work hard on the copy, did not put as much care and effort as the original artwork. They just tried to make it look as much like the original as possible. Also, nobody can ever make the exact same texture as the original. I feel like the original artwork would have a more smoother texture than the replica. I would rather see the original artwork than the replica because I believe that the original would have more meaning than the replica. The authentic artwork has a much larger purpose than a replica. Original is unique that is irreplaceable. It's more powerful to see the original because you can interpret the message that the artist is saying. With a replica all you can interpret is how much they wanted to mirror the original. With a replica there is no purpose or meaning. If I were a part of the Monuments Men task force, then the sculpture that I would have saved and chosen is a colorful horse made of mosaic tile on fiberglass. My artwork is named Journey. This sculpture is created by Brenda Flynn. I chose this piece of artwork because it just captivated me. I also feel like this sculpture is has a rarity in it that makes it unique. This horse isn't your usual horse that is drawn like a regular horse that has fur. This horse's mosaic tile on fiberglass just makes it rare and captivating. Also its just so creative that someone would think outside the box by creating a three-dimensional horse full of multicolored mosaic tile. This sculpture would most definitely be something worth saving. I think that the artist's purpose on making this sculpture is she is trying to promote individualism because this is not your usual horse. This horse is colorful. She's trying to express that it's ok to be different. That different is beautiful. Also that you do not have to be like everybody else. Its vivid colors lead me to suspect that its expressing that our world is full of different cultures, fashion, etc. And that the title Journey is expressing travelling all around the world. The colors also express this earth because we have so many states and countries that have different cultures, beliefs, values, and religion. The horse also expresses travelling in a way because she's bringing back how people used to ride horses to get from place to place. The theme is travelling and expressing yourself. I know this because of the colors of our world of different ways of living. I find that this sculpture means to always live life to the fullest, because life itself is short. Not to mention that there are so many places to see, to where the artist is encouraging travelling. Honestly, as soon as I saw this sculpture, I was immediately awestruck by the artwork. I don't think that I have ever seen anything so beautiful in my life. I said to myself that I had to absolutely make my museum paper about this magnificent sculpture. It's such a stunning piece of art. The reason why I liked the piece is because I felt a connection with this sculpture. I loved the message it brought out. Where its alright to live your life to the fullest by taking every journey that knocks at your door. With the mosaic tile shimmering with all kinds of colors of every culture. This piece makes me see that in life, it's important to take certain journeys throughout your life because you might find just what you're looking for. I believe that it does have a strong message because life is so beautiful, don't waste it all in one place. The sculpture isn't named Journey for nothing. I believe that everything in this artwork has a purpose. The media of this sculpture is multicolored mosaic tile and fiberglass. This sculpture is actually a mixed media, because of its mosaic tile and fiberglass. The fiberglass looks like it's of a grey color, while the mosaic tile is multi-colored. The fiberglass is also carved with pieces of mosaic glass covered around it. The technique of this sculpture is that the fiberglass is carved out to give it its unique horse-like shape. Also the way these people managed to put all of that mosaic glass glued around it without messing it up is absolute pure talent. I think that the mixed media enhances the meaning because of the fact that the fiberglass of the sculpture is shaped like a horse, and the fact that it is named Journey, it is inspiring others to travel the world. Also because it's a different looking horse, that it's ok to be different. The multicolored mosaic tile also expresses how different and beautiful our cultures are, and how important it is to experience everything in the world. I strongly believe that the new material is superior to the traditional media because mosaic tile is usually used for walls, ceilings, etc. After all, the textbook has stated that when we engage with two-dimensional works of art at a more technical level, we begin to notice things about the work's medium. It also states that one of the choices is the work's medium, which gives it its fundamental characteristics. (pg.30) It's saying that whatever tool the artist uses to create the sculpture, they gave it its true meaning. Mosaic tile is very unique in a sculpture because nobody usually uses that for sculptures. The most common media usually used for work is paint. One of the principles of this artwork is pattern. I say pattern because the way the swirls of the horse interact with each other. This sculpture is just filled with swirls of different colors. Also apart from the swirls, this artwork has a lot of circles of different colors surrounding the swirls. The artist brought out the mosaic tile by putting them in different shapes and colors. The swirls of the mosaic tile make it look like a purse. It's one after another perfectly placed together. How does this artist manage to make the shapes so perfectly proportionate with each other from head to toe? That is beyond me. The swirls spread out a message of creativity. One of the elements of this artwork is color. I say color because of the fact that this sculpture does not focus on just one color, but many. Red, green, white, yellow, orange, etc. All blended together in one beautiful horse. The colors express individualism. This sculpture expresses how beautiful color is. I am so glad that the artist created the sculpture the way she did. This art sculpture expresses shape as one of its elements because of the fact that it is shaped like a horse. The sculpture provides such a beautiful horse. I also believe that another one of the sculpture's elements is good texture because of the mosaic tile and fiberglass. The texture is emphasized in great details of the smooth feel of the mosaic tile. The texture has a smooth feel to the touch. The texture has such a brilliant finish. Another one of the principles of the sculpture is emphasis, because this artwork is put out with such importance to where it is the most valuable of them all to be saved. This sculpture is saying a message that is crying for attention. The mosaic tile especially on the horse, since it's unreal to have a horse that is covered with anything other than fur, is brought out to the viewer's attention. The mosaic tile is the focal point because it's unique. This is the best sculpture because it stands out. Also, another one of the principles of this sculpture is rhythm because the pattern of the mosaic tile is different with the different colors of the mosaic tile, but yet the routine is repeated that it's all around the horse. The repetition goes on the same way. The arrangement is put out like the mosaic tile in the same streak but different patterns and colors. The patters go between being multicolored to being all in swirls. Another one of the elements of this sculpture is form because it is a three-dimensional horse. The form is trying to tell us a story about this artwork. The form gives this art such a descriptive nature of taking journeys in our lives. The form gives this sculpture a purpose of taking chances in life. I do believe that this artwork is a cultural value because this sculpture could have easily been from another country because it's just so rare and sacred. This mosaic glass horse is not what you see everyday. The main thing that cries out that it is culturally valued is that it is named Journey, and that it's multicolored with different patterns. The colors and patterns read out all of our different cultures and values that exist in this earth. I think that the value of this artwork in today's society would probably be a little irrelevant because in my opinion, art has declined in value. People in todays generation in general don't seem to appreciate art anywhere near as much as people in previous generations. So I am not disagreeing because of my sculpture, I am just disagreeing because art regardless has declined with a sudden increase in technology. Art has lost its value and excitement it once had for human beings. No, I don't think that the artwork's message will become relevant in the future, but not in the way that you think. As I said before, I just think that all art has lost its value in todays world and people lost interest so therefore, I think that all recognition in art will decrease from this point forward. I absolutely love the message the artwork is trying to portray, but I know deep down in my heart that art no longer has the same values the way they did in previous centuries and generations. Yes, I feel that the Monuments Men risking their lives for art was a worthwhile endeavor because as much as I would never die for art, I loved the fact that they were standing up for what they believed in. And also, they would not give up no matter what. They would do anything to get to it rain or shine, and life or death. They knew that the artwork would eventually increase in value in culture overtime, so they wanted to make sure that the art was spared, regardless of what would have happened to them. I would never do the same because I don't feel for myself that it's worth dying for art. For people that you care about, that's another story. But for artwork, it would depend on how much that piece meant to you. For me, if I were to choose art or myself, I think that I would be a little bit selfish and choose myself. Artwork is not replaceable, but you can build something at least close to it. But human life cannot be reconstructed. No one can ever create another you.