The Significance of Monuments essays

The Significance of Monuments essays Throughout the centuries many artists have constructed works of art to illustrate significant events, important people and beliefs of cultures. The Littlefield Memorial Fountain and Martin Luther King sculpture were both erected to convey the significant events of their time period. The location of both the Littlefield Fountain and the MLK sculpture help emphasize their importance. The Littlefield Fountain lays directly between the two most recognizable and renowned buildings in Austin, the Capital and the Tower. As one stands to look at the Fountain they can look beyond it to see the Tower and then directly behind them lays the Capital. The MLK statue stands in the middle of the East Mall, making it difficult for spectators to ignore its presence. The open space around the statue and the sidewalks leading up to it emphasizes its importance. Location in both these works of art plays a vital role in how the viewers appreciate them. The non-bronze elements in both works of art help give more meaning and better depict the significance the statues hold. The MLK statue rests on top of four cement blocks, which constructs a larger than life image. The height which he is portrayed at allows for a stronger feeling of admiration when looked upon. The shrub border and water fountains around the Littlefield Memorial enhance the visual appearance of the statue. The water which cascades down both sides towards the Littlefield Memorial brings the spectator to look directly at the statue. Also, the countropasto of the horses draws the spectator in to try and understand what is going on. Both the MLK and Littlefield Memorial statues are freestanding, but the MLK has several two dimensional characteristics as well. Around the base of the statue are four relief pictures which illustrate the quotes above them. These reliefss and non-bronze materials add texture to the sculptures and allow their viewers to see more than...

Types of Verb Forms and Functions in English

Types of Verb Forms and Functions in English A book by the A verb is customarily defined as a part of speech (or word class) that describes an action or occurrence or indicates a state of being. But just when is a word a verb? Generally, it makes more sense to define a verb by what it does than by what it is. Just as the same word (rain or snow, for example) can serve as either a noun or a verb, the same verb can play various roles depending on how its used. Put simply, verbs move our sentences along in many different ways. Here, by identifying 10 types of verbs, well briefly consider some of their more common functions.   Auxiliary Verbs and Lexical Verbs An auxiliary verb (also known as a helping verb) determines the mood or tense of another verb in a phrase. In the sentence It will rain tonight, for example, the verb will helps the verb rain by pointing to the future. The primary auxiliaries are  the various forms of be, have, and do. The modal auxiliaries include can, could, may, must, should, will, and would. A lexical verb (also known as a full or main verb) is any verb in English that isnt an auxiliary verb: it conveys a real meaning and doesnt depend on another verb: It rained all night. Dynamic Verbs and Stative Verbs A dynamic verb indicates an action, process, or sensation: I bought a new guitar. A stative verb (such as be, have, know, like, own, and seem) describes a state, situation, or condition: Now I own a Gibson Explorer. Finite Verbs and Nonfinite Verbs A finite verb expresses tense and can occur on its own in a main clause: She walked to school. A nonfinite verb (an infinitive or participle) doesnt show a distinction in tense and can occur on its own only in a dependent phrase or clause: While walking to school, she spotted a bluejay. Regular Verbs and Irregular Verbs A regular verb (also known as a weak verb) forms its past tense and past participle by adding -d or -ed (or in some cases -t) to the base form: We finished the project.   An irregular verb (also known as a strong verb) doesnt form the past tense by adding -d or -ed: Gus ate the wrapper on his candy bar.   Transitive Verbs and Intransitive Verbs A transitive verb is followed by a direct object: She sells seashells. An intransitive verb doesnt take a direct object: She sat there quietly. (This distinction is especially tricky because many verbs have both transitive and intransitive functions.) Does that cover everything verbs can do? Far from it. Causative verbs, for example, show that some person or thing helps to make something happen. Catenative verbs join with other verbs to form a chain or series. Copular verbs link the subject of a sentence to its complement. Then there are performative verbs, mental-state verbs,  prepositional verbs, iteratives, and reporting verbs. And we havent even touched on the passive or the subjunctive. But you get the idea. Though they can get tense and moody, verbs are hard-working parts of speech, and we can count on them to make things happen in many different ways. * Stephen Pinker, The Stuff of Thought. Viking, 2007​

General Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

General - Essay Example 2. How are trade discount amounts, chain discounts used in the entertainment industry? Within the entertainment industry, trade discount amounts are used by allotting cuts on the works of the business to business partners, who are facilitating each other on a number of tasks and activities (Haines 2007). These discounts make up the figures for meeting the expenses and bringing them down in a considerable manner. Similarly chain discounts are offered when the entertainment industry gives cuts on volume (bulk) work flows, and when the need is to have more work at a lesser cost. The trade discount amounts and chain discounts work to good effect within the entertainment industry because these embody the basis of success for the people who work under such regimes, and they get to be paid much better than these discounts were introduced in the first place. Works Cited Haines, Douglas C. Manufacturer and Retailer Power in Retailer Response to Trade Discounts. Academy of Marketing Studies Jo urnal, Vol. 11, 2007

Chemical Companies Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Chemical Companies - Research Paper Example Expenditure in research and development by firms globally summed up to 344bn pounds among the countries with heavy investments in this sector such as Japan, Us, Germany, France Switzerland and the UK. These countries through the respective corporations contribute to a tune of over 82% of the spending in R & D. among the largest sectors with huge spending in R & D globally are the pharmaceuticals company, electric and electrical equipment as well as chemical companies as indicated by a registered growth in their spending on the same. (Shield, Beth, and Miriam pg. 45). On the other hand capital expenditure by firms has never seemed so controversial nor important. Together with R & D, capital spending is the long-term lifeblood of many corporations as it determines the ability of most corporations to generate cash flows enough to service their debts. It is quite hard to determine the capital expenditure of most companies if not all as this is the aspect that results into a variety of ri sks in the business in form of cash flows, competitive position, as well as the ability to price. According from evidence shown by statistics, the top capital spenders also come from the chemical and energy industry and they include corporations from china, south America like Brazil and a great deal of corporations from Europe (Frith pg. 144-8). In Europe the chemicals, plastic and rubber sectors forms a bigger part of the industrial sector generating over 3.2million employment opportunities yearly. It is in record that since the year 2000, the chemical sector in Europe has dominated the manufacturing sector by over 2/3. Among the top 50 ranked corporations is the German giant chemical producer BASF with a sale of $79.8 million, which is even an improvement from the previous period’s sales. The company through its management continues to even have more prospects of growth through increased production despite the looming economic tenacity (Festel pg. 88). A combination of the sales figures for the 50 surveyed firms shows a total of $961.8 billion. This figure indicates how much the chemical industry controls the transactions that take place worldwide. The domination of firms in the chemical industry is the same in the developed countries as it is in the developing countries. Chinese giant Sinopec recorded revenue of $56.4 billion and is ranked at number three worldwide and came closer to even being the number two chemical producer in the whole world (Kain pg. 167-9). Among the top three in terms of capital expenditure as well as research and development is the Dow Chemical at position two in the whole world. Sabic also follows in the list in that order with revenue of $42.2 billion and takes position 5 among the chemical producers. It is worth recording that these firms have shown tremendous progress through dynamic performance in their previous past operations. They have come a long way in which SABIC was all the way number 13 in the whole world to beco me number five. At the same time, SINOPEC was all the way number 14 and look at its ranking today (Shield, Beth and Miriam pg. 92-4). As compared to the year before,

Why would a firm want to become a multinational Essay Example for Free

Why would a firm want to become a multinational Essay Let’s be clear about what we mean by a multinational. This is a firm that extends beyond the borders of an individual nation and operates with affiliates and branches in at least two countries. A multinational organizes phases for producing goods and services to sell in different countries. For example, many car companies have mastered the so-called international segmentation of production, which works like this: A Toyota vehicle assembled in San Antonio may have been designed at the Toyota design center in Australia; the vehicle’s aluminum-wheel components may have been produced in Delta, British Columbia; and its other components may have been produced in yet another location. Other multinationals replicate entire production processes in different countries. Consider Coca-Cola. If you are visiting Poland, the Coke you drink probably was produced in a plant in Lodz, Poland, not in the United States, although the brand and the company hail from the U. S. International business scholars and economists have observed that firms become multinationals to exploit three broadly defined sets of advantages. The first is ownership advantage. Multinational firms usually develop and own proprietary technology (the Coca-Cola formula is patented and kept extremely secret) or widely recognized brands (such as Ferrari) that other competitors cannot use. Multinationals often are technological leaders and invest heavily in developing new products, processes and brands, while usually keeping them confidential and protected by intellectual property rights. Maintaining stronger protection of these elements helps firms enjoy greater profits from innovation. Second, consider localization advantage. Multinationals usually try to build facilities that produce and sell their products in locations near the consumer (the Polish consumers of Coke in our example). This helps reduce transportation costs or helps the company fit in better with local tastes and needs. Proximity to demand also helps firms adapt their products and services to different markets. At the same time, they also may take advantage of lower production costs (for example, labor costs, energy, sometimes even lower environmental standards) or more abundant production factors, such as expert engineering or greater raw materials). For example, the Polish affiliate of Coca-Cola also owns bottling plants in the Beskidy Mountains region of Poland, which is rich in mineral water for making other beverages. Finally, multinationals want to internalize the e benefits from owning a particular technology, brand, expertise or patents that they find too risky or unprofitable to rent or license to other firms. Enforcing international contracts can be costly or ineffective in countries in which the rule of law is weak and court procedures are long and inefficient. In these cases, the company also may risk losing its ownership advantage, which it has created at a substantial cost.

Vittore Carpaccio :: Essays Papers

Vittore Carpaccio Vittore Carpaccio was born around the year 1460 near Venice, Italy. They didn’t keep birth records then, so this date is an estimate. Vittore knew from a very young age that he wanted to be a painter when he was older. He couldn’t pay attention in school because he was always drawing or sketching on his papers. As a young man, Carpaccio was greatly influenced by two Venetian painters. These two painters were Gentile Bellini and Giovanni Bellini. Carpaccio was influenced greatly by these artists, but he also admired the work of other artists of the Venitian art period. Carpaccio used four cycles of paintings; each of these cycles was used to tell a story. However, only the first two of these cycles have become well known. Carpaccio did the first of these cycles between 1490 and 1495. This cycle consisted of nine large paintings. One of these paintings, named The Legend of Saint Ursula, is considered by most people to be his finest work. Especially original is the painting Dream of Saint Ursula. Vittore completed the second cycle of his paintings between the years 1502 and 1507. This cycle also consists of nine scenes. These scenes are mainly from the lives of Saint George and Saint Jerome. The two best known paintings of this cycle are titled Saint George Slaying the Dragon and Saint Jerome in His Study. Even tough Carpaccio was greatly influenced by other artists of his time; he still had a style that was different than everyone else. He seemed to use the colors black, red and brown more than other colors. He also put exotic animals or objects from faraway lands in many of his paintings. He also was very good with architecture and knew how to paint buildings so they looked real. Some of Vittore’s other widely known paintings include: â€Å"A Saint Reading† and â€Å"Virgin and Child.† Even though he isn’t as famous as some other artists are; Carpaccio was one of the greatest artists of the early Renaissance in Europe.

Nursing Research Critique Assignment Essay

I will be critiquing two different articles. Both studies are nursing studies that evaluate outcomes. I will be following specific key points for a quantitative perspective and a qualitative perspective. There is a guideline that I will be following for each article that includes identifying and examining the data collection and data analysis methodologies used in each study. The names of the articles are The Experience of Patients Undergoing Awake Craniotomy and The Effects of Crossed Leg Blood Pressure Measurement. The references will also be reviewed to determine validity and relationship to the new study. Data Collection Quantitative Study: The operational and conceptual definition is congruent. The key variables were operationalized using the best possible method and with adequate justification. Specific instruments were adequately described and were good choices, given the study purpose, the variables being studied, and the study population. The instrument used specifically was a blood pressure monitor. The blood pressure cuff size, dimensions, and inflation pressure were described. The blood pressure monitor was adequately pretested and calibrated before the study began by a biomedical technician (Foster-Fitzpatrick, Ortiz, Sibilano, Marcantonio, & Braun, 1999). It can be determined that the data collection methods provided data that was reliable and valid. The intervention executed was having patients cross their legs and measuring their blood pressure. The intervention was adequately described and implemented. The implementation of the intervention was faithful to its plan (Polit & Beck, 2012). The data was gathered by trained nurse researchers (Foster-Fitzpatrick et al. , 1999). The same blood pressure monitor was operated during the data collection to minimize biases (Foster-Fitzpatrick et al. , 1999). Qualitative Study: The methods for gathering data were appropriate and the data was gathered using interviews over a span of 2 days (Palese, Skrap, Fachin, Visioli, & Zannini, 2008). It could be determined that triangulation was achieved since the interviews were performed on numerous occasions and during assorted circumstances. The researchers did ask the right questions and make the right observations, which were also recorded in an appropriate fashion. It can be concluded that sufficient data was gathered, given the specifics required to be a factor in this study. The data collected was adequately rich in depth and detail. The data was gathered using interviews with open-ended questions. The interviews were audio-recorded. The data compilation tools were valid and reliable for this study. Data collection was adequately described and appeared appropriate for this type of study. Bias was kept to a minimum. The researchers were to determine and recognize ideas that may have prompted or provoked personal biases, they also had to recognize any personal experiences or beliefs that might have influenced what they were going to hear and report (Palese et al. , 2008). Data Analysis Quantitative Study: Analyses were appropriated to answer the research question and to test the hypothesis. The researchers performed various blood pressure measurements on a sample of hypertensive males to determine if the crossing of a leg has an effect on blood pressure measurements. Appropriate statistical methods were used given the level of measurement and assumptions of the test. However, there was only one specific group that was the variable, 100 hypertensive males whose ages ranged from 31 to 81. Hypothesis testing allows researchers to make objective decisions whether study results likely reflect chance sample differences or true population differences (Polit & Beck, 2012). In this study there was no control group. Then, how can we determine that crossing your leg would increase blood pressure. It is challenging to support whether a type I and type II errors were actually minimized or avoided. The intervention studies did not perform an intention-to-treat analysis. All of the participants were treated and there was no omitted information. The participants also did not abandon the study. The problems of missing values were evaluated and adequately addressed. The limitation of the study includes gender and sample size. The researchers discussed the weaknesses with solutions for future studies. The researchers recommend replicating this study using a larger sample size that includes females. They consider that these changes would increase the significance of the results. The findings are discussed and interpreted. Information about statistical significance and confidence interval is presented and reviewed. There was good use of tables and figures that included titles and headings that were clearly and appropriately labeled. The results were also clearly displayed in tables with identifiable titles and labeled headings. The study included descriptive statistics. The study described the main characteristics in the dataset. The mean and standard deviation for each blood pressure measurement was calculated before and after crossing of the legs was performed by the study subjects. Inferential statistics were also present in this study. In order to test mean differences with three or more groups, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) statistical test is used. This research study conducted a repeated-measure ANOVA, which is when there are three or more measures of the same dependent variable for each participant (Polit & Beck, 2012). Measuring blood pressure at various intervals and under numerous conditions for the same subject is one incident where this type of testing can be used. . The model for this design was repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). The level of significance in this study was stated at < 0. 05 for all three effects in the model, (before crossing the legs, during legs crossed, and after having crossed the legs). This significance level indicates that researchers accept a risk that out of 100 samples drawn from a population, a true null hypothesis would be rejected 5 times (Polit & Beck, 2012). Given the level of measurement and the nature of the hypothesis, the results were adequate. However, I believe that further research is required to have a stronger correlation. A wider sampling population should be used in future research to have more accurate conclusions. Qualitative Study: The data management and data analysis methods were sufficiently described. The data analysis strategy was compatible with the research tradition. It was also compatible with the nature and type of data gathered. The findings are effectively summarized. There was good use of citations from the patient interviews. The researchers were able to abstract concepts that were found in the data collected from the interviews. Although each patient had a unique experience, the researchers were able to categorize concepts from the data that was analyzed. Researchers were able to group these concepts into pre-operative concerns, intra-operative concerns, and post-operative concerns. Since there was limited research conducted on intra-operative experiences there were limits with the ability of being able to link it to previously performed studies. However, the study did recognize the limits it had. Since this is a qualitative study, generally these studies cannot be generalized to the population. Qualitative researchers are not concerned with the general population, but rather with subjects experiences (Polit & Beck, 2012). The researchers did acknowledge the importance of the healthcare team members to think about patient’s experiences in order to better understand how to prioritize the needs of the patient (Palese et al. , 2008). I believe that biases were kept to a minimal considering the implementations that the researchers were exposed to at the beginning of the study and before they were exposed to the interviews or observations. The composition and exploration of the data produced genuine and significant descriptions of the experiences that the patients whom were subjects had. Summary After reviewing both articles and critiquing each one, I believe to have a better understanding about the difference between a quantitative research study and a qualitative research study. Data collection should be systematic and meticulous. Both studies gathered their data systematically and meticulously. In view of the statistical analysis, levels of measurement should be defined as nominal, ordinal, interval or ratio level data. Sources of data can be documentary sources as primary and secondary sources, field sources as subjects in person, conditions, environment and events that are observable and measurable, and historical data. Both of the studies also had these types of sources. The methods of collecting data include surveys questioning using interview schedule and questionnaires, observation techniques with the help of structured or unstructured instruments, and measuring with standardized instruments. Both of the studies also used some of these methods for collecting data. The purpose of analyzing data in a study is to describe the data in meaningful terms. For example, the study in reference to blood pressure changes utilized tables for interpretation. Statistics help to answer important research questions and it is the answers to such questions that further our understandings. It is required the researcher to have an understanding of what tools are suitable for a particular research study. Depending on the kinds of variables identified (nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio) and the design of particular study, number of statistical techniques is available to analyze data. The data collection and data analysis methodologies used varied and followed the particular need of each research study. The researchers followed the research process guidelines and methodologies. Although, both studies had some weaknesses, they were both performed adequately, using appropriate techniques and instruments. They were also both performed with integrity, discussing thei r limitations and weaknesses.

Understanding of the Flynn Effect

The Flynn Effect, first observed by James Flynn in 1981, is the steady year on year increase in IQ scores on intelligence tests, noting a greater rise in fluid (non-verbal) intelligence than crystallised (verbal) intelligence. There are numerous studies providing evidence for this effect leading to the question; are generations getting more intelligent? There is no universal definition of intelligence, leading many researchers to try and discover common themes around the world.Yang & Sternberg (1997b) found similarities in ideas of intelligence between Western and Eastern cultures but ultimately, along with other researchers such as Baral & Das (2004), concluded that there are great differences between conceptions of intelligence around the world. Due to this, there have been many different methods used to measure intelligence over the years, from Binet & Simon’s (1911) intelligence test, to Gardner’s (1983) multiple intelligence theory.One of the more accepted and univ ersally used methods designed to test intelligence is the intelligence quotient (IQ) test, developed by William Stern in 1912, an idea used by many other intelligence researchers. In 1981, when reviewing intelligence tests to test validity for new versions, James Flynn noticed that whenever participants were given an old test and a new test to complete, they always got higher scores on the newer test. He went on to look at a further 73 studies (Flynn, 1984) and discovered that between 1932 and 1978, white Americans had gained 14 IQ points, supporting his original discovery.In 1987 he published intelligence test data from 14 countries (Flynn, 1987), coming to the conclusion that IQ scores were rising not only in America, but across a number of different countries and cultures, further displaying evidence for his discovery. In attempt to make sense of Flynn’s discovery, it has been proposed that generations are getting more intelligent, an idea that Flynn himself rules out. He argued that if generations were getting more intelligent, we would expect to see an ever rising number of geniuses in the world which we don’t.So why are IQ scores getting higher? In 1998, Ulrich Neisser (Neisser, 1998a) edited a book suggesting some possible environmental explanations for the Flynn Effect. The book was contributed to by Flynn (1998), Greenfield (1998), Lynn (1998), Neisser (1998b), Schooler (1998) and Williams (1998). It covered 5 main areas: schooling, test-taking sophistication, parental rearing style, visual and technical environment and nutrition. However, Lynn (1990) originally broke these ideas down into two opposing hypotheses; the nutrition hypothesis and the cognitive stimulation hypothesis.The Nutrition hypothesis proposes that nutrition is a key factor in generations' increased intelligence, Lynn (1990; 1998). It sees nutrition as increasing intelligence as part of a nurturing environment, including longer life expectancies, improved health and lo wer infant disease. As food has become more readily available to most people, we are inevitably receiving more of the nutrition and food that our bodies and brains require, meaning our bodies and brains are more capable of performing to the best of their ability.Compared with generations ago, when food and water was scarce it is almost expected that we should achieve better results on intelligence tests when our brains are better nourished and equipped to deal with them. Average human height has also risen over the last century, which has been attributed to nutrition. Lynn (1990;1998) suggested that this could be significant, as brain size has been linked to nutrition and also to intelligence. Some researchers began looking at particular nutrients in relation to intelligence.Quian et al (2005) looked at the effects of iodine on intelligence. Findings showed that the children who had received iodine supplements before and after birth scored significantly higher on intelligence tests than children who hadn’t. Iodine is now well known as one of the most important minerals for good health. Benton & Roberts (1988) conducted a study involving 90 children divided into 3 groups of 30. Group 1 were given a supplement which contained a number of vitamins and minerals. Group 2 were given a placebo and Group 3 was not given anything.8 months later Benton & Roberts (1988) found that in Group 1 a significant increase in non-verbal (fluid) intelligence scores was observed, supporting the Flynn effect. However, there was no significant difference between verbal (crystallised) intelligence scores. Further research into understanding the Flynn effect saw Colom, Luis-Font & Andres-Pueyo (2005) test two large samples of Spanish boys with a 30 year gap in a measure of fluid intelligence. A significant rise in IQ scores was observed in the later sample, with findings interestingly noting intelligence gains mainly observed among the lower percentile of IQ scores.Teasdale & Ow en (1989) and Lynn & Hampson (1986) had previously found similar results. These findings, and many other replications, support the Nutrition hypothesis as evidence for the Flynn effect. In general these types of studies have provided plenty of evidence to conclude that IQ is affected by vitamin/mineral supplements on non-verbal measures of intelligence, however, it is becoming increasingly hard to test this as most people are well-nourished these days particularly in Western cultures.Future studies could continue to look at which particular nutrients affect which particular areas of intelligence, and concentrate on broadening the research to a wider variety of cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. Many of the previously mentioned studies use a sample consisting of only males, which makes results less representative to the entire population. The Cognitive Stimulation hypothesis, takes into account some of the other ideas mentioned in Neisser’s book (Neisser 1998a), suggestin g that higher intelligence is driven by improvements in cognitive stimulation.In particular, visual analysis and technical advances are seen as causing intelligence to increase. Visual analysis can range between many things, from photographs, messages on cereal boxes, puzzles in a newspaper, to television programmes. One of the biggest changes in the twentieth century was the arrival of visual media such as television and the internet. Nowadays almost every home has a television and many have computers and access to the internet.Children now have much wider access to educational toys, games, television programmes and computer programs, and adults now participate in many cognitively demanding activities such as reading, puzzles, video games and using devices such as television and computers. Johnson (2003) argues that popular television has become more cognitively demanding in recent years. One example is children’s television show Sesame Street, designed to increase childrenà ¢â‚¬â„¢s intelligence and awareness by providing mental stimulation at an early age.Sesame Street is now an award winning show and is recognised as helping to develop children’s understanding and abilities (Palmer, 2003). Even simple things such as adverts provide us with cognitive stimulation, sometimes requiring viewers to work out a hidden or abstract meaning, compared with much more straight forward adverts seen from years ago. Intelligence tests such as Raven’s matrices measure visual analysis, on which the largest gains in IQ have been found providing support for the cognitive stimulation hypothesis.Some of the other ideas mentioned in Neisser’s book include schooling, test-taking sophistication and parental rearing style. Nowadays, we attend school for many more years than our parents and grandparents did. Cahan & Cohen (1989) found that length of schooling influences intelligence, however their results suggested larger rises in verbal intelligence, thus not providing evidence for the Flynn effect. Test-taking sophistication is the idea that we are just generally more aware of intelligence tests than generations ago. IQ tests are something we learn about in school as teaching today is generally geared towards achievement tests.This could potentially explain better scores in intelligence tests by those who know why and what they are doing them for, but it is unknown whether this could explain the emphasis on non-verbal intelligence seen in the Flynn effect, as it is a very difficult concept to test. Parental rearing styles have also changed, with families getting smaller meaning each child is spending more time with his or her parents. Flynn (1998) and Williams (1998) also suggest that today’s parents are more interested in their children’s intellectual development than in previous generations.However, it could be argued that due to the Flynn effect, today’s parents are simply more intelligent than their own pare nts and grandparents, and therefore better able to guide and educate their own children. If the cognitive stimulation hypothesis can truly explain the Flynn effect, then we should see a rise of IQ scores across generations at all levels of IQ (Flynn, 2003; Lynn (1990) but if the nutritional hypothesis provides the explanation, intelligence gains would appear more so at the bottom end of IQ scores, where nutritional deprivation is at its worst (Flynn, 2003).Neither the nutritional hypothesis nor the cognitive stimulation hypothesis appears to be telling the whole story in relation to the Flynn effect, and there are still many other theories out there. Some suggest natural selection as a cause, such as Deary et al, 2004 who found significant correlation between low IQ score and risk of cardiovascular disease and death. However this could be down to environmental factors caused by lower IQ such as poverty and living conditions which could lead to death and illness Gottfredson 1997. Bra in size has also been proposed as a relevant factor.Tiedmann (1836) suggested a connection between brain size and mental energy, and medical advances allowing tests such as MRI scans have since led to further research in this area. Willerman et al (1991) and Raz et al (1993) went on to find correlations between brain size and general intelligence, supporting Tiedmann’s hypothesis. However, these correlations were found in particular samples, and did not clarify causation. Luria (1968, 1972) conducted two case studies and discovered that injuries to different parts of the brain affected intelligence in different ways.Flynn (1994, 1999) favoured environmental explanations himself, suggesting intelligence gains too rapid to be genetic. Many recent European studies have suggested that the Flynn effect is actually coming to an end, or could possibly be in reverse. Sundet et al (2004) composed intelligence tests from the 1950’s and found that in line with the Flynn effect, n on-verbal intelligence showed higher gains, that is until the 1990’s when IQ scores ceased to increase. Teasdale & Owen (2005) found similar results, with scores rising from 1959 and peaking in the late 1990’s.Teasdale & Owen (2005) noticed that after this peak, intelligence test performance has since declined to pre-1991 level. Many people view these studies as direct evidence for the end of the Flynn effect; however some view it an extension of the Flynn effect, one which can still be explained by the nutritional hypothesis. It is proposed that the rise in IQ scores was a result of the number of low scorers who were dragging the average IQ score down, getting smaller and smaller.Supporters of the nutritional hypothesis argue that this decreasing number of low scorers was due to the decreasing number of people suffering from poor nutrition, and now poor nutrition is not a problem the slow removal of low scorers has levelled out. Three big questions when looking at int elligence testing are the reliability of intelligence tests, the validity of intelligence tests and whether the usefulness of intelligence is overemphasised.One issue with reliability is that IQ scores fluctuate, and if you take the same test a few weeks later it is likely you will achieve a different score, although you are not supposed to retake the same IQ test as your first interaction with it will almost certainly influence your second performance. Researchers question whether we can ever truly know if the first score we get is truly a representation of our intelligence, or if it may be a fluctuation from our real intelligence, questioning the accuracy of such scores. This concern hasinspired plenty of research into IQ fluctuation, with many studies such as Jones & Bayley (1941) suggesting that although scores do fluctuate, they remain relatively stable. Furthermore, while there is plenty of evidence to suggest intelligence tests correlate well with other intelligence tests (Ne isser et al, 1996), these studies are based on the assumption that there is a globally agreed idea of general intelligence when this is in fact not true (Benson, 2003). As mentioned earlier, there are cultural variations of what is perceived as intelligence, calling into question the validity of intelligence testing.It wouldn’t be sensible to dismiss intelligence tests entirely as there is plenty of evidence to support their reliability, validity and usefulness. However, we should not ignore the shortcomings. Both the nutritional hypothesis and the cognitive stimulation hypothesis have contributed somewhat to our understanding of the Flynn effect, but neither appears to be telling the whole story. The nutritional hypothesis views nutrition as increasing intelligence as part of a nurturing environment with plenty of evidence providing support for this as an explanation of the Flynn effect, such as Quian et al (2005) and Benton & Roberts (1988).However it is becoming increasing ly difficult to continue to test this as most people are well nourished these days, particularly in Western culture. The cognitive stimulation hypothesis suggests that the visual revolution is responsible for the Flynn effect, suggesting higher intelligence results from improvements in cognitive stimulation. Again, there is plenty of evidence in support of this; however it does not provide an absolute explanation.Due to the rising number of studies suggesting the Flynn effect is coming to an end, it is possible that any current and future research into the Flynn effect is futile, although many of the evidence to suggest this is predominantly undertaken in Europe, pointing back to the cultural differences in intelligence. Perhaps less developed countries are seeing the Flynn effect? We could benefit from more research across various cultures. There are also the questions of intelligence test reliability, validity and usefulness to consider. Leading to my final question; if we canâ₠¬â„¢t define intelligence, how can we truly test it?

Comparing Initiation Themes

Comparing Initiation Themes Initiation refers to a rite of passage from childhood into adulthood or making an entrance into the society. There exist differences in rites of passage from a particular community to another. These rites of passage may vary from a person to another. New responsibilities and a new form of self-realization characterize initiation. Furthermore, the act involves a variety of forms like tribal initiations that involve teachings on adulthood. It may also take the form of spiritual or gang initiation characterized by introduction to criminal gangs.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Comparing Initiation Themes specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Initiation occurs in all cultures and there have been a lot of literature written about it. Many teenagers, especially girls make life-threatening decisions during initiation. Initiation has numerous psychological effects as revealed in the narrations of many individuals. Individuals who are initiated by wrong people face many consequences, which affect their lives in many ways. This paper will present a comparison of initiation themes. Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been In the story â€Å"where are you going, where have you been†, the main character is Connie who is a 15-year-old self-absorbed girl. She is not in good terms with her mother and she lives with her elder sister who is steady and hard working. The genesis of her initiation occurs in a particular day when, without the knowledge or approval of her parents, she spent a day at â€Å"Big Boy† restaurant and captures the attention of a man. It does not take long before the boy and his friend visit the girl’s homestead in the absence of her parents. The man seems friendly although Connie notices that he has lied about his age. What transpires leaves less to imagination because the man asks Connie to comply with his demands (Oates 8). The story depicts a sad initiation process for C onnie as she is introduced into a sense of self-realization through harassment. Because of her naivety, she is adamant to leave the relationship. Many women have written their biographies with such kind of an initiation including an aspect of forced marriage. The bandits take Connie to a building described by her as being in a dilapidated condition. Moreover, she is threatened to copulate with Friend, who wants her to be his lover and possibly his wife. ‘The Grave’ In the short story of Katherine Porter, ‘The Grave,’ there is a young woman called Miranda who is on a hunting mission with her brother. They take time to view the cemeteries that the family had sold. Miranda is a woman who reveals how she is uncomfortable with several aspects of her life. The outset of her initiation is when she witnesses her brother killing a rabbit. The two realize that the rabbit was about to give birth. Miranda has a sense of pity and she even starts trembling without any re ason. From her reactions, it is apparent that she has realized that she is more mature. Hence, according to the standards of her society, she has to start behaving like a mature woman and accept all the responsibilities that come with the position (Barber 15).Advertising Looking for essay on comparative literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In ‘The Grave,’ the young woman feels that she has been initiated from childhood into adulthood. Although she cannot explain the occurrence of the initiation, she acknowledges that it is time for her to become mature and take up the role of a woman. This is unlike in the case of Connie depicted in ‘where are you going, where have you been?’ In the latter story, Connie is abducted without her knowledge and is initiated by bandits. This form of initiation differs with that of Miranda. Connie’s story involves the use of force into initiation. Sh e never showed any instincts regarding what was to happen or nothing could indicate to her that it was time to step out of childhood. Connie’s predicament is exacerbated by the threats she receives when she reveals her intentions to call the police. Her story ends with an indication that her initiation is through forced love and eventually into marriage with a man that she barely knew. Furthermore, she is forced to marry a person whom she fears and does not trust. Miranda does not go through forced love in her initiation (Oates 8). ‘At the Landing’ A look into the forms of initiations experienced by the aforementioned women reveals that initiation is worse for a young woman called Jenny. Her predicament is depicted in Eudora Welty’s Story ‘At the Landing.’ She is initiated through rape. A stranger steals Jenny’s innocence and this is the worst form of initiation that can happen to a woman. Further, a group of men rapes her as she attemp ts to look for Billy, the man who had previously raped her. Jenny undergoes more suffering in her initiation than the other characters. She is forced to sleep with a man. Her situation is made worse by the societal prejudices directed at women who undergo such shameful experiences. She is blamed for failing to take any action after being raped by a gang of anglers. Her story draws close similarities with that of Lynn (Barber 15), and Connie (Oates 8-10), as both are persuaded into having a sexual relationship during their initiation. ‘An Education’ The story of Lynn Barber in â€Å"An Education is a bit different from the others. The story revolves around a 16-year-old schoolgirl. This girl has a chance to meet a man claiming to be 27 years old. Lynn is vulnerable as she is attracted by Simon’s possessions and she succumbs into a premature relationship. The relationship continues and Simon starts the habit of kissing her for long and even demands to have sex wit h her. This goes on until they are on a trip and they have sex. Things take a different turn when they are having dinner in a cortege one evening as Simon is sought after by authorities (Barber 20).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Comparing Initiation Themes specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More After her education, Simon proposes to her and she informs her parents who encourage her to accept the marriage proposal. Deep inside her mind, she knew that this was going to shatter her dreams, as she was a bright girl and had ambitions of going to Oxford University to further her studies. With the consent of her parents, she decides not to go to the University and instead opts to marry Simon. Later on, she realizes that Simon is a dishonest man who had been deceiving her all along. The story of Lynn Barber shows a naà ¯ve girl led into marriage by a much older man. She is a bright girl and has ambitions of furthering her stud ies but out of her naivety, she opts for marriage with a man who is dishonest and not fit to be her husband. She undergoes a tough initiation, as her parents do not take their time to learn if Simon was good enough for her. Furthermore, the parents even opted for her marriage and did not reprimand her for not going to college. She is frustrated after learning that Simon had been deceiving her. Her initiation has similar aspects to that of Connie (Oates 8-10). Both of them are deceived by men who are much older than they are. They are led into marriage despite their age and naivety. Although the story of Connie includes an aspect of force where she is forced to go out with Friend, she had a chance of rejecting his advances from the first time they met in a restaurant. Lynn’s case is out of her free will that she allows Simon to build a relationship with her. Initiation undergone by Lynn (Barber) and Connie (Oates) shows young girls who are deceived by gifts and money. In both the cases, the two girls are attracted to men with expensive cars. Connie described Arnold Friend’s Car as an expensive car with a bright gold color that caught the sunlight opaquely. The two girls allowed the men in their lives from the fact that they looked wealthy and they could treat them with expensive gifts. Lynn used to receive flowers and during the weekends. Simon would pick her and go with him to watch movies. We learn from her that her father also accepted and acknowledged Simon to be her friend. The father had asked where Simon and Lynn had met (Barber 2). Her parents wanted the man to be her lover so that they could gain from his wealth. However, there is no relationship during the initiation of Miranda (Porter 15). She experiences an urge when they are on a hunting mission with her brother Paul. She notes that her father had been urging them to dress like boys although the neighbors were not comfortable with it.Advertising Looking for essay on comparative literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More She notes that she is supposed to dress like a woman and was ready to accept her womanhood with all the responsibilities. She feels the urge to go back into the house and dress in a feminine manner. She is luckier than the aforementioned characters because no one deceives her into marriage. Lynn and Connie gain the sense of knowledge from naivety and childhood through a rather regrettable manner. In ‘Charlotte temple’, (Rowson), initiation of a sixteen-year-old girl is not very different as she elopes to America with a British worker. The young girl is left alone when she gets pregnant and the man desserts her to stay with much wealthier woman. She succumbs to a serious ailment and dies in the process of giving birth. This story is not very different to that of Lynn (Barber), as the two girls are rather young and end up in marriage with men that they do not know well. Moreover, they marry at a rather young age before they have trusted their partners. They are both decei ved after marriage as Lynn realizes that Simon is a dishonest man who is wanted by the police. He later starts selling off his property. In the case of Charlotte, the man does not keep the promise of staying with her and as soon as she gets pregnant. He deserts for a much older woman. Both girls are deceived by looks and wealth. The situation changes when they drop out of school, which leaves them frustrated. Both stories are similar to that of Connie (Oates). They all are deceived and have sexual affairs at a tender age. Although Connie’s fate is not well known, there are indications that she eventually enters into a forced marriage. The story of Connie is however different from that of the two girls because she is married without her consent. Most of the stories of young girls into initiation involve seduction, which eventually leads to fatal consequences. Many girls fall into this trap as they are targets of men because they are schoolgirls and are considered more attracti ve to hang out with and have a sexual relationship with. The men in most cases do not intend to marry them. Further, it happens that they are even dumped off after they get pregnant. This case is well illustrated in the story of the Charlotte (Rowson), where she elopes to America with a man who dumps her when she gets pregnant. Connie (Oates) and Lynn (Barber) also fall into the trap of men who lead them into premature relationships. All the girls end up suffering and their dreams of furthering their education are shattered. The stories lower their self-worth. A proper initiation should be like that of Miranda (Porter), where her initiation is out of self-induction. She realizes and feels the urge to dress properly like a woman and quit hunting as this was a male affair. Conclusion In summary, initiation refers to a rite of passage from childhood into adulthood or making an entrance into the society. There are numerous differences between rites of passages in different societies. In itiation is characterized by the emergence of new responsibilities and self –realization. Initiation may also involve a variety of forms like tribal initiations that involves teachings on adulthood. In this paper, various forms of initiation are highlighted. Most of the individuals that underwent initiation in the aforementioned cases have had bad experiences in the process of initiation. Initiation has numerous psychological effects as revealed in the narrations of many individuals. Individuals who are initiated by wrong people report to have vast consequences, which affect their lives in many ways. In ‘where are you going, where have you been’ and other stories depicted above, several girls have been initiated into womanhood through negative processes. Some have been raped or forced into early marriages. This paper reveals how girls are tricked into making premature decisions that drastically affects their lives. Hence, there is the need to address the initiati on of girls into adulthood through violation of their sexuality such as rape or even forced marriages tender ages. Moreover, there exists the need to help adolescents refrain from getting into relationships. Involvement into the aforementioned behavior may lead to consequences such as pregnancies or abusive marriages. The cases of Lynn and Charlotte have elucidated the predicament that some young girls face in the process of initiation. From the cases, it is apparent that girls may face negative consequences during initiation than boys. These include social, psychological, and emotional consequences. Barber, Lynn. An Education. New York: Penguin, 2009. Oates, C. Introduction. Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been. New Brunswick: Rutgers University Press, 1994. Porter, Katherine Anne. Conversations. Mississippi: University Press of Mississippi, 1987. Rowson, Susanna. Charlotte Temple. Boston: Mobile Reference, 2010.

En - French Preposition

En - French Preposition The French preposition en is nearly always used directly in front of a noun with no article, or after certain verbs. Uses of en Before a Noun En can mean any of the following: Location il est en prison - he is in jailjhabite en banlieue - I live in the suburbs Time  (en vs dans) en aoà »t - in Augusten trois jours - in three daysen semaine - during the week To do something like or as Je te parle en ami - Im speaking to you as a friendIl agit en enfant - Hes acting like a kid Means voyager en train - to travel by trainrentrer en taxi - to return by taxi Condition or appearance à ªtre en bonne santà © - to be in good healthà ªtre en guerre - to be at warà ªtre en pyjama - to be in pajamas Transformation traduire en franà §ais - to translate into Frenchse dà ©guiser en... - to disguise oneself as...transformer une salle en bureau - to change a room into an office Material un pull en laine - wool sweaterune maison en brique - brick house Verbs with en The French preposition  en  is required after certain verbs when they are followed by a noun. agir  en  Ã‚  Ã‚  to act  like / asavoir  confiance  en  Ã‚  Ã‚  to trustcasser  en  (morceaux,  trois)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to break in(to) (pieces, two)se  changer  en  Ã‚  Ã‚  to change intoconvertir  (quelque  chose) en  Ã‚  Ã‚  to convert (something) intocouper en  (deux, cinq)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to cut in (two, five pieces)croire  en  Ã‚  Ã‚  to believe inse  dà ©guiser  en  Ã‚  Ã‚  to disguise oneself asà ©crire en  (franà §ais, ligne)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to write (in French,  on line)mesurer en  (mà ¨tres)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to measure in (meters)se  mettre  en colà ¨re  Ã‚  Ã‚  to get madse  mettre  en route  Ã‚  Ã‚  to set outpartir  en  (guerre)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to leave for (war)partir  en  (voiture)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to leave by/in (car)traduire en  (franà §ais)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to translate into (French)transformer  qqch  en  (qqch)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to change s.t. into (s.t.)se  vendre  en  (bouteilles)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to be sold in (bottles)voyag er en  (train, taxi)  Ã‚  Ã‚  to travel by (train, taxi)

Nature of Logic and Perception Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Nature of Logic and Perception - Essay Example Whether mental blocks interfere in critical thinking and its influence on nature of logic and perception is crucial in understanding human behavior. Thinking is most important in relation to life as we grow we start thinking more, and thus, we change our future ability to think. Ancient Greek, the Roman rhetoricians, medieval thinkers, the renaissance thinkers, the British empiricists, and even twentieth-century thinkers encourage us to think and ponder deep into the intricacies of open, unfolding, and marvelous arena of the mind. Following the words of Socrates, "Know thyself," Plato thought that we are born with ideas and with the pure power of the mind and innate ideas we could achieve divinity. "Descartes echoes Anselm-"I think, therefore I am"-and challenged our pride by telling us that "it is not enough to have a good mind; the main thing is to use it well." (Kirby & Goodpaster, 1999, p. 2). As thinking cannot be useful unless it is communicated through the media of language, images, art, scientific formula, and mathematics, thinking is defined as "the activity of the brain that can potentially be communicated." (Kirby & G oodpaster, 1999, p 5). At the same time, there are unexpressed thinking that is stored in the brain and we use it often before speaking or acting. Writing and talking are the best media for expressing our thinking process as "our thoughts can resound and rebound with new shape and vigor from the thoughts of others" and "our ideas can intermingle, cross-fertilize, and become the seeds for whole new species of thoughts." (Kirby & Goodpaster, 1999). It implies that, we should use our mind and head rationally and constructively to become successful humans. Our thinking process is influenced by our upbringing, and it shapes our fears, our self-concept, and our emotions. At the same time our psychological world is shaped by our exposure to cultural and genetic forces, which often negatively influence and hinder our sound thinking process. Our self-concept, the way we view ourselves, also blocks critical and creative thinking. Self-concept includes not only intelligence and attractiveness, but our liking for home, friends, religion, state, country, values, possession, sports, and so on, which my influence our ego-defense mechanisms, self-serving biases, and individual identity. Ego-defenses, the psychological coping strategies, comprising denial, projection, and rationalization also impact on our thinking process. Critical thinking requires that when analyzing and assessing thinking we should take into account that human thought is rational and selective and it is impossible to understand any person, event, or phenomenon from different an gles simultaneously. The word "logic" covers a range of related concerns all bearing upon the question of rational justification and explanation and it is the study of correct reasoning and its foundations. Humans identify things using ideas, meanings, and thought -- some sense of what is relevant, what supports a belief, what should we assume, what we know, what is implied, what contradicts, and what should we believe, and vice-versa -- and this intellectual