How the Government is Restricting our Freedom and Rights Essay

How the Government is Restricting our Freedom and Rights - Essay Example This essay stresses that the public officials and the government are increasingly setting illegitimate restrictions on citizen's freedom of peaceful assembly, and expression to silence key voices. Evidence reveals how opposition politicians, activists and journalists face arbitrary intimidation, politically motivated criminal charges, arrest and threats for expressing opinions deemed critical and vital by the government authorities. This paper makes a conclusion that the government restricts the right to freedom of expression by law of the international human rights, to protect and preserve the rights of public order and other rights, if permitted in a democratic society to restrict and law mainly does it. The formulation is based on the European Convention on Human Rights and the UN Covenant on Political and Civil Rights. Religious rights of protection are crucial as a human right, but concerning the freedom of religion, the government laws impose restrictions, a restriction same as the freedom of expression. Right to religion, is a freedom to manifest or express one's beliefs, which is subjected to various limitations as prescribed by law. Although such limitations are fundamental to protect public order, safety, morals, health or essential freedoms and rights of others, it still infringes ones right. The government has banned public protest among unverified contentions that coordinators organized violence. In contemporary times, political activists are accused of treason a serious offense for their engagement in planning the protest. In many countries, government authorities are creating an environment where it is difficult for citizens to criticize government practices or policies and government officials. Recent report documents more and more restrictions on the media in US, which prevent it from freely, and timely broadcasting information concerned with government scandals and other critical matter. Journalists in media houses and private broadcasters have reported facing temporary closure, harassment and intimidation by the government authorities. All these imposed measure and restrictions infringe people freedom of expression, (McMullen, Bagby and Palich, 2008). Under the current international Conventions, obligations of the state concerning freedom of expression are immediate and absolute. Similarly, as with other types of liberty, particularly unrestricted freedom of speech and e xpression may result to the infringement of other people’s rights. A number of restrictions and limitations have hedged the freedom of expre

Learning Activity Essay Example for Free

Learning Activity Essay This assignment talks about the mission statement of Lotto Food – grocery store and its importance and it also answer a few questions related to the mission statement. Mission statement The mission statement of Lotto Food – grocery store is â€Å"Where freshness is at its best†. They promise their customers at providing a diverse selection of best quality products at a reasonable rate; along with maintaining the highest standard of freshness they also win the heart and mind of their customers by providing the best customer service. Why is it important to establish a clear mission statement? The establishment of a clear mission statement is important because it reflects the vision of the company as to how the company would like its clients to view it .For the company to be successful, it must have a clear mission statement that convinces the clients how it would be advantageous for them to shop from their grocery store and what facilities and services can they specially enjoy being a customer of their grocery store. Why is it important to communicate the company’s mission statement? In order to let the public know what your company’s vision is and what facilities they have for them and what services they cater, it is necessary to communicate the mission statement of the company. It helps in communicating expectations and also pinpoint what to stress on or to potential and also it gives a clear consensus to the company telling them where they lack and how more can they improve. Communicating the company’s mission statement to the employees is more important than to its clients so that the employees are well aware of the services they have to give and the performance expected out of them. Why is the meaning of the company’s mission statement important in making organizational changes? A mission statement focuses on a company’s present state and therefore in order to bring any organizational change in the company, a change in the company’s mission statement is also required because every aspect of your business is reflected in the mission statement. The attributes of   the product, cost, service, quality and your co-relation with your clients, suppliers competitors and employees working in the company. (Abraham, 2007). Reviewing and revision of the mission statement is very important as it contemplates your aims and goals with the development of your company, the economic condition and the business. If the review results in a amendment of the statement, it’s a big deal because it probably means that your company is expanding or it needs an organizational change. References Abraham,J.. (2007). 101 Mission Statements From Top Companies: Plus Guidelines For Writing Your Own Mission Statement. Ten Speed Press.

Playing God in Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Essay -- Frankenstein 2014

In his Poetics, Aristotle defines the tragic hero as a man of high social status who invites the gods to punish him through overbearing pride and/or presumption – hubris. It would be simple to assign the label of hubristic tragic hero to Victor Frankenstein, but such assignment of a label would be an oversimplification. The gods in Greek drama punish, albeit harshly, in an outright manner. The tragic figure is aware that the gods have forsaken him, and he resigns to live his life under the demands of retribution. Victor Frankenstein’s fate is not so simple; fate is crueler to Victor and more spiteful than he could ever be to the heavens. The question that precedes all others, however, is who is or what acts as god in Frankenstein. It is safe to assume that Victor Frankenstein’s god is that of the Christian tradition, although interestingly, he never truly mentions it as such. Instead, he invokes the spirits of nature and swears by the â€Å"sacred earth on which [he] kneel[s]† that he will get his revenge (Shelley 173); so it is only fitting that it is nature or the laws of nature that feel offended by Victor’s transgression and his vulgar presumption that he can emulate its force. What drives Victor to do so is a complicated issue, but what is rather clear is that the setting of the novel is ideal for such a crime. The distinction between nature’s powers and godly powers is a relatively new concept. For many ancient cultures, nature was inexorably tied to the ultimate spirit; and although men could speak to the spirits, they were in no way like the spirits. Before altering any object in nature, one needed permission from these spirits. This changed with the growth of Christianity: â€Å"Christian... ...Ecocriticism Reader: Landmarks in Literary Ecology. Ed. Cheryll Glotfelty and Harold Fromm. Athens: University of Georgia Press, 1996. 15-29. Mounce, H.O. Hume’s Naturalism. New York: Routledge, 1999. Reich, Lou. Hume’s Religious Naturalism. Lanham: University Press of America, Inc., 1998. Shelley, Mary. Case Studies in Contemporary Criticism: Frankenstein. Ed. Johanna Smith. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2000. 28-189. Sherwin, Paul. â€Å"Relativism and Literary Criticism: The Case of Frankenstein.† Aspects of Relativism: Moral, Cognitive, and Literary. Ed. James E. Bayley. Lanham: University Press of America, Inc., 1992. 25-39. White, Lynn. â€Å"The Historical Roots of our Ecological Crisis.† The Ecocriticism Reader: Landmarks in Literary Ecology. Ed. Cheryll Glotfelty and Harold Fromm. Athens: University of Georgia Press, 1996. 3-14. .

Urban Growth During the Gilded Age: Social, Cultural, Political, and Economic Changes

Rodrigo Sanchez Urban Growth during the Gilded Age: Social, Cultural, Political, and Economic Changes One of the most notable times during the late 19th century was the Gilded Age. This is a term often used to describe this time period since from the outside looking in urban life in America seemed perfect, but in reality, many citizens did not like the changes that were occurring. Since the verb gild means to cover with or as if with a thin coating of gold[1], historians often refer to this time period as â€Å"the Gilded Age†. New ideals about poverty, social reforms, different political approaches, and a new women’s culture brought forth political, economic, social, and cultural changes in urban growth during the Gilded Age. Some were mostly beneficial, but others were not. The Gilded Age was a time of politics, and new forms of it influenced urban growth during this time period. Campaigning was no longer enough to keep voters on your side. George Washington Plunkitt recognized this and changed their approach toward politics. †¦you have to go among the people, see them and be seen†¦I know what they like and what they don’t like†¦Ã¢â‚¬  says Plunkitt as he describes his new strategies (Document E). He goes on to explain how he helps people follow their passion, â€Å"I hear of a young feller that’s proud of his voice†¦I ask him to join our Glee Club,† (Document E). This new form of politics and obtaining votes closely resembles the strategies political bosse s used during this time period. Via favors and help, political bosses secured votes for their political parties. This new way of getting votes, both from politicians and political bosses, changed the way people viewed politics. Politics became a new interest for many, since now they were personally affected by it. Not only that, but people now saw politics as a means of getting what they wanted. Some, such as old immigrants, wanted everything to be closed on Sundays. New immigrants wanted to be able to relax and be able to enjoy their day off on Sundays (Book). Minor things like this got people interested in politics. They now felt they had a voice, and with the new methods of getting votes they were instantly rewarded through favors. Politics during the Gilded age also stirred raw emotions and anger among citizens. The Spoils System was good for many people who were looking for jobs and had made monetary contributions to political campaigns. The people who were on the other side of the spectrum did not like the Spoils System. Ultimately, this system put qualified people out of jobs and replaced them with unqualified people (Book). Those lucky enough to not be affected by the Spoils System who had jobs often suffered bad working conditions in the workplace and low wages. In an effort to reform these conditions unions sprung up throughout American cities. Government oftentimes kept unions down, afraid big companies and factory owners would make them look bad in court. Document C clearly points a finger toward the government. â€Å"†¦man’s liberties are trampled underfoot at the bidding of corporations and trust,† states a letter on labor, as it then explains how tyrants have always found a willing judge â€Å"to clothe that tyranny in the robes of legality† (Document C). With unions down, entrepreneurs kept getting richer and richer. The wealth amounted by these entrepreneurs would be the new political standard. William Graham Sumner stated that America was turning over a new political system, plutocracy. Plutocracy, as defined by Sumner, is a political system in which the ruling force is wealth (Document I). This was in fact true as the rich controlled government, as it is made clear when judges put unions down. All these bad aspects of politics during the Gilded Age were a set back. Regardless, they contributed to the urban growth in the forms of reform movements, and activism by individuals to try to change what they didn’t like. It is clear that there were different views regarding politics during this time period, but there was also a difference in views regarding economics. Different views on poverty altered urban life as well. Those who were better off economically saw poverty as a weakness. They believed the poor were poor because of a lack of work ethic and determination, this theory was known as Social Darwinism. This theory is emphasized by Andrew Carnegie who, in his book Wealth, states that it is â€Å"much better great inequality than universal squalor† (Document A). Not only are those his thoughts about poverty, but he also finds it â€Å"essential for the future progress of the race† (Document A). This belief was shared by many successful entrepreneurs. There were, however, those who did not share this idea. There were those who believed the poor were poor due to their surroundings and the lack of opportunities they had. Such individuals include Jacob A. Riis. In his book, How the Other Half Lives, Riis says, â€Å"If it shall appear that the sufferings and the sins of the ‘other half’, and the evil they breed, are but as just punishment upon the community that gave it no other choice, it will be because that is he truth† (Document H). Riis puts the blame on the community, not on people themselves. This belief is also shared by Jane Addams, who after helping out a German immigrant realized that she didn’t need charity, since she had an â€Å"immense capacity†, but the service of the state’s attorn ey (Document J). These different views on poverty ultimately changed urban life by starting a social reform movement, which will further be discussed later on. Though poverty was an economic predicament, the Gilded Age also brought economic relief for other social groups. New immigrants were one of these groups. Document B provides a story of the struggles two immigrants from Italy faced as they arrived to America. They arrive to Brooklyn, move to Newark, and finally moved back to Brooklyn where they settled in Hamilton Avenue. They go through this hassle in an effort to make money, and pursue a better a better life. But in the end their plans change as one of them states, â€Å"we had said that when we saved $1,000 each we would go back to Italy to buy a farm, but now the time is coming we are so busy and making money that we think we will stay†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Document B). This clearly depicts the economic opportunities immigrants had. But immigrants weren’t the only one benefited, so we middle class Americans. The Gilded Age was prosperous times for middle class Americans, who wanted to appear wealthier than what they were. Thorstein Veblen noticed this behavior among middle class Americans, who conspicuously acquired luxuries to appear richer (Document F). The fact that middle class citizens were able to buy these â€Å"luxuries† leads one to believe that they were economically stable. This economic relief helped along urbanization by giving new immigrants opportunities, which brought more immigrants into America, and by giving middle class Americans something to aspire to. There were new social developments during the Gilded Age, as well? which helped urbanization along. Due to poverty, many people sometimes lived under harsh conditions. Such were cramped housing. Document C provides a blueprint of a dumbbell tenement. This building was 50 feet long and in that span there were seven rooms, think of how small the rooms were! Not only that, but there were only two fire escapes, and the blueprint lacks essentials, such as a bathroom. Riis then states that three-fourths of [New York’s] population used to live in tenements similar to the one shown in Document D (Document H). Needless to say, these were unfit living conditions for any human being. In an effort to fix, or at least improve this, social reforms were started. Organizations such as the Hull House started going into these communities to better understand the conditions poor people lived under. Jane Addams narrates the story of her helping out and going into the community in Document J. This social reform helped the growth of urbanization by lending out a helping hand to the poor. During this time period there was also more social interaction. Due to the popularization of croquet and cycling young men and women now socialized more (Book). Women were also making social changes during the Gilded Age. Education is a tool and weapon to better ourselves, and during the Gilded Age women were now given a fair education. M. Carey Thomas argues that women should have the same education men have (Document G). â€Å"There is no reason to believe that typhoid or scarlet fever or phthisis can be successfully treated by a woman physician in one way and by a man physician in another way,† argued Thomas (Document G). Thomas simply said that whatever a man can do a woman can do it too, and it can be done in the same fashion. This academic reform for women would lead to more and more successful women. With the rising women came the women suffrage. Organizations such as the National Woman Suffrage Association (NWSA), and the American Woman Suffrage Association (AWSA) fought for equal voting right for women. All these social changes helped in developing a more equal and fair society for men and women alike. A final part of the growth in urbanization during the Gilded Age includes the cultural changes that occurred. As said before, the economic opportunities during the Gilded Age attracted many immigrants. All immigrants did not come from one place; the â€Å"new immigrants† came primarily from southern and eastern Europe, with some immigrants from other parts of the world as well. With so many cultures together, America became a melting pot of cultures where European food was cooked with American products, polka bands entertained at Polish gatherings, and Mexican ballads acquired new themes (Book). These are obvious cultural changes. America was now a nation where immigrant cultures met and were redefined. Entertainment was a culture in its own. Sports were now a big thing. Baseball and football gained popularity as many more people were able to engage in the sport. Circuses provided families good, healthy entertainment. Everyone was bewildered by the trapeze artists, lion tamers, acrobats, and clowns. Vaudeville was the most popular form of entertainment, it in included jugglers, dancing bears, magicians, and puppeteers. Movies also were a big hit. The fact that the image was moving provided people with amazement and entertainment. This cultural change in particular helped give cities their edge. Where else could people find sports, circuses, vaudevilles, and movies within close proximity? During the Gilded Age urbanization grew due to political, economic, social, and cultural changes. Politically, there were new approaches to getting votes and people got more involved in politics. There were many poor people, and they were viewed differently, but there were also many economic opportunities to succeed. Women also were allowed to succeed, and the poor were given a helping hand. Culture changes redefined American society. All the changes, in one way or another, helped move urbanization along. Some changes were good and some were not as beneficial, but in the end they all contributed to the urban growth during the Gilded Age. ———————– [1] Merriam-Webster’s School Dictionary. Merriam-Webster Inc, Springfield (1999). Gild, 373.

PEST Analysis for a Company in the Tourism Industry Essay

The Tourism industry is one of the fastest growing industries in theworld. The World Travel and Tourism Council estimates that in 2004 Travel and tourism is expected to generate* US$ 5,490.4 billion of economic activity* 10.4% of total GDP* 214,697,000 jobs or 8.1% of total employment* 12.2% of total exports [1]My task is to conduct a PEST analysis for a company within the Tourismindustry. Within the tourism industry, I have to select one area of interestlike transportation, accommodation and transportation etc. and thenone company doing business with these sectors related with thetourism. According to Leiper ?Transportation is the only link between thetourist-generating region and destination region?[2]So, transportationwas a more interesting sector to discuss in the report but I tried tofind a company which is related with all these main sub-sectorsdiscussed above in the report. I have decided to look in the U.K market for such company because?Tourism is one of the largest industries in U.K, worth approximately75.9  £ Billion to the U.K economy in 2002 and supporting around 2.1million jobs.? [3]During my research on internet I found many companies offeringservices in the tourism of U.K but I have decided to choose ?SimplyTravel? because of its variety of services offering related with theaccommodation, transportation and attractions. 1.2 Problem FormulationIn the problem formulation part of my report I would describe theoverall situation of the U.K Tourism industry. The service concept of?Simply Travel? will give us information about the services providedby the company. I will find out about the customers, competitors ofthe company. I will find out what political, economical, social andtechnological factors affecting the company and its demand situation. 1.3 LimitationsThe biggest limitation for writing this report is time and the pagesto write. It is a broad topic and it could be better presented ifavailable more time and space to write about, but still I have triedto  highlight some main points raised during my finding. My knowledgeabout the company ?Simply Travel? is internet-based and I could notable to contact the company for further information. Due to the lackof information about the company I will only describe one component ofthe Service Management System. I will be describing only the OT partof the SWOT analysis. 1.4 MethodologyBeing inspired from the Service Management System I will describe theservice concept of the company .I will conduct a P.E.S.T analysis tofind out the political, economical, social and Technological factorsaffecting the company. From SWOT analysis, I was conducting OTanalysis to find opportunities for the ?Simply travel? in future. 1.5 DataI will use Secondary data collected from different industry reportsavailable on internet for my report. Data provided in conductingP.E.S.T analysis has been taken from www.statistics.gov.uk. Chapter 22.1 Simply Travel?s Service Concept[4]Established in 1978, Simply Travel has been providing travel solutionssince 26 years for the discerning travels who want more from theirholiday than just a decent tan. Not through the aggressive marketingtactics, but by providing an attractive alternative to mass-marketpackage holidays has lead ?Simply travel? to gain a big loyalty poolamong the holiday travellers. Mentioning about the core services provided by the, company provideshand- picked properties to meet the individual needs of its customers. Ski holidays, winter sun, Family holidays (special locations forfamily holidays with child care) helpful staff, peace of mind andsafety during the whole travel are the core services provided by thecompany. Unparalleled service, late availability, nannies for kids , pleasantexperiences for its customers are the peripheral services provided bythe company. 2.2 Service PackageService package provided by the company for different holiday travelsincludes all airport taxes, flights and transfers, accommodationincluding breakfast and meals and the service of its representatives. Chapter 33.1 CustomersHolidaymaking is the main reason that UK residents travel abroad. Asthe company deals with the both inbound and outbound tourism I willhave a brief look on the inbound and outbound market. Number ofoverseas visits by UK residents increased to 59.3 million in2002.Expenditures by these visitors, excluding international fares £27.07 billion-slightly higher than the total for the domestic market(which includes fares). Describing about the demographics of the customers, most of thecustomers are families with children and older people but latest trendhas been seen in the youth to take holidays. 3.1.1 Customers? Buying BehaviourContinued concerns over safety and security while travelling are foundin the customers for holiday travels. Tourists are increasingly buyingexperiences rather than a usual routine holiday. They try to find aparticular activity. The fuel blockades at U.K petrol stations, the events of 11thSeptember 2001, the foot and mouth outbreak, SARS and Iraqi war hashad continuous affect on the buying behaviour of UK market customers. Consumers are showing a continuing search for value for money fromtheir  holiday choices. Consumers expect more choice, individuality andvariety. 3.2 CompetitorsAggressive marketing by low cost airlines and internet bookingagencies present a big challenge for the holiday market. Airlines likeBritish Airways are offering customers to make their own travel plansthrough internet. Travel agents compete in variety of ways i.e. price,quality and the package itself. Companies offer special discountedpackages and also compete on branding. As there are hundreds oftravel agents in the U.K market so, it?s difficult to specify thecompetitors in the market. Travel select, Expedia, Travelocity, Ebookers and Thomas cook etc. are the big names in the market andoccupy the bigger part of holiday sales for the U.K customers. 3.3 MarketI can say that market is in a state of perfect competition and noindividual consumer and travel agent is in position to affect themarket. Key success factors for ?Simply Travel? are* Effectively segmented and targeted adventure travellers marketwithin the larger travel market. * Successfully positioned as travel specialists. * Personal interaction, media and marketing. * Repetition of customers, Loyalty pool3.4 PEST analysisTo assess the market for the business of ?Simply Travel? I willconduct PEST analysis to find out about the Political, Economic,Social and Technological factors in the external macro-environment. 3.4.1 Political FactorsPolitical arena has a huge influence upon the regulation of businesses.It includes government regulations and legal issues under whichbusinesses should operate. According to the findings, political environment of U.K. is quitestable. Issues like enlargement of European Union and war against terror havehad an  effect on the political stability of the government. In result of growing awareness of the environmental consequences, U.KGovernment is planning actions to ensure aviation reflects itsenvironmental impacts. Proposals are emerging for a tax on aviationfuel and VAT on air tickets. Government?s taxation policies and decision about the increasing thepetrol prices have affected the buying power of the individuals inU.K. The political decision as to whether a UK sign up to single Europeancurrency is again having an effect on the businesses. 3.4.2 Economic Factors Economic factors affect the purchasing power of potential customersand also affect the individual company’s offerings. U.K economy is benefiting form gradual low inflation rate. Inflationrate Inflation rate fell to 1.3% in February 2004. In U.K, unemployment is low. According to labour market statistics inJanuary 2004 fell down to 4.8 per cent. Job confidence is high andbecause of this confidence spending by consumer is also high. Predictions point to continuing GDP growth over the period averagingaround 2.4% a year (GDP rose by 0.9% in fourth quarter of 2003), withreal household disposable income rising at a somewhat faster rate. Household expenditures rose to 0.9 per cent with the increase indisposable income. The UK?s deficit on trade in goods and services in February 2004 stoodat  £3.2 billion ?compared with the revised deficit for January of  £4.4billion. Continued sales growth has been observed during the past few months inthe UK economy. Exchange rates are favourable for UK residents for travelling abroaddue to strong position of British Pound against the other foreigncurrencies. ?Euro? used as a single currency in many Europeancountries, is also stable against the other foreign currencies. Latest predictions for the UK economy suggest that it will remain oneof the strongest economies in the world over the next five years, withlow inflation (inflation fell to 1.3% during February 2004), lowunemployment and reasonable economic growth. The downside is that disparities between the wealthier parts of thecountry, not all in the south east of England, and pockets ofdeprivation, will get wider, with implications for travel demand. These are likely to influence the growth of the UK resident travelmarket. 3.4.3 Social FactorsA trend of getting internet access at home and buying online isdeveloping in the UK. According to statistics in September 2003, 11.9million households online were recorded. Listening to music or radio is a popular choice among the UKresidents.92% of people content to spend their evenings and weekendswatching TV or hired videos. To socialize, most people think toentertain family and friends at home rather than going out (79%). A great trend has been seen in U.K population about diet and healthissues in the recent years. This trend leads towards the need of morefitness clubs and organic food for the people from U.K Changes in thestructure of the population because of the immigrants from Europe,Asia and Africa etc. will also affect the supply and demands of goodswithin the U.K economy. Continued concerns over safety and security while travelling are foundin the U.K residents. Lifestyle changes have also been affecting the U.K travel market for anumber of years. Postponing the start of the family and an increase inthe number of households consisting of couples with two incomes arethe main trends toward the changing life style. Changing fashions,which are difficult to predict also have an affect on the market. 3.4.4 Technological FactorsThe rapid development of technology is affecting the businesses in UKand all over the world. Changes in the technology have changed the waybusinesses operate i.e. Internet booking for tickets and holidays. Faster changing development in technology creates a need to reactquickly for different businesses in order they want to maintain thecompetitive environment by providing the same innovative services,which their competitors are offering. Distribution of products by the use of technologies e.g. marketinginformation systems, customer relationship management are also commonpractices with different businesses for effective services to theircustomers. Chapter 44.1 Impacts on demand situationFindings from the PEST analysis will enable me to comment on theimpacts on the demand situation of the customers of the ?SimplyTravel?. ElasticitiesChanges in the quantity demanded due to change in price and income arevery important for the tourism industry. Rising disposable incomeamong the UK residents is the positive indication for the ?SimplyTravel? that people will have enough money to buy company?s products. However, Government?s fiscal policies for tax on aviation fuel and VATon air tickets will impact the company?s supply of services at thesame rate. Higher prices of the tour packages will lead to lesserdemand among the UK residents. Cross-Price ElasticitiesNot only a price change in the UK due to taxes is important but alsothe price of the facilities in other destinations where  company servesis also important. For example rising prices in Italy, Spain etc. fordifferent tourism related products will also make supply of productsexpensive for the tourists. TrendsLatest trends of home- entertainment and more awareness about the dietand health-issues does also have an impact on the demand of thetourist. Company will have to compile the Supplies of servicespackages with variety of facilities available according toindividual?s choice, so it can make supply of the products a bitexpensive for the customers. Purchasing methodGrowing direct purchases of holiday packages from airlines will impactthe demand situation .Buying the package direct from suppliers i.e. Hotels, air lines will decrease the demand of the tourists. Moreover, low inflation rate and high employment rate and favourableexchange rate will increase the buying power of the tourists so itwill increase the demand in British holiday travellers for the holidaytravels abroad. 4.2 OT analysisTo find opportunities and threats from the external environment forthe ?Simply Travel?, I will conduct the OT analysis. 4.2.1 OpportunitiesOpportunities exist for ?Simply Travel? in expanding the servicepackage according to the latest trends such as* Packages with individual concerned Diet and health matters* Adding particular activities for the tourists, providingexperiences* Providing more choice, individuality and variety. And providing the real value for the money of the tourists. 4.2.1 ThreatsCheap airlines adding facilities for the travellers to make their owntravel plan is the biggest threat for the company. Government?s decision to add taxes on aviation fuel and VAT for airlines are also a main threat for the company. Latest trends of home entertainment i.e. listening radio, watching TV,Inviting family and friends are also threatening the company. Terrorist attacks like 9/11 is also a big threat for the company. Chapter 5ConclusionI conclude my report by saying that the Holiday Travel market in UK isin a state of perfect competition. Though there are positive signs inthe economy for present and near future and buying power of theindividuals is increasing day by day but still ?Simply Travel ? is in need to expand its service package according to the latest trends. ———————————————————————[1] http://www.wttc.org/2004tsa/frameset2a.htm[2] Tourism, principles and practices,2nd edition,pp5[3] www.staruk.org.uk[4] The information used in describing the service concept and servicepackage of ?Simply travel? are obtained from www.simply-travel.com.

Sickle cell and Anemia

Sickle cell and Anemia Introduction The essay is an in depth critical examination-a quantitative critique of two article based on sickle cell and anemia titled â€Å"Development and Evaluation of a Sickle Cell Disease Assessment Instrument† and â€Å"Iron Deficiency Anemia: Following Prenatal Nutrition Interventions† written by Day Sara and Leblanc Caroline et al published in 2004 and 2007 respectively. It has been noted with concern that it is important for researchers and scholars to be capable to critically analyze studies done by others (Beth, 2010). This is one way of learning regarding research works for them to be able to better their knowledge on the same.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Sickle cell and Anemia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Development and Evaluation of a Sickle Cell Disease Assessment Instrument It is worth to note that although the research question for the article written by Day S. is not stated under a subheading, it is evident that there are two research question that guided the study; regarding developing a sickle cell disease assessment instrument and evaluation of the instrument’s reliability and validity. Similarly another question is what the characteristic or critical attributes of sickle cell are. The study employs a qualitative study approach Day, S. (2004). The reason being that the information generated is on a particular case under study, Assessment Instrument for sickle cell anemia. It is a requirement that a research study have both independent and dependent variable. For the article, independent variables are all those critical attributes being studied and include mean hemoglobin, mean leukocyte count, incident of pain requiring emergency room visit and hospitalization and date of occurrence, incident of dactylitis and date of occurrence and incidence of acute chest syndrome and date of occurrence. The dependent variable in this study was sickle cell anemia. Similarly, the article clearly indicates conceptual definition of independent variables and these variables include; dactylitis, acute chest syndrome, date of occurrence, pain events, leukocyte count and hemoglobin. Additionally, Day Sara manages to provide the readers with a conceptual definition of the dependent variable which is the succinct definition of sickle cell. Readers are made aware of the possible courses of action to be taken and similarly the approach used by the researcher to arrive at the problem of the study. It is worth noting that the conceptual definition has made it possible for the author to easily link the variables under study (Day, 2004). All the conceptual definition of both independent and dependent variables has made the author to easily communicate to the varied audiences concerning the results obtained in the research. It is also possible for other scholars to replicate what has been done in the article. Research ethics demand that authors shoul d clearly indicate operational definition of both independent and dependent variable they are studying to avoid confusion in communication. The author has gone an extra mile by not only defining the variables in her study but also explaining them in details. This helps address the issue of confusion in communication as well as making it possible for other scholars to replicate the procedure. This is attributed to the fact that the article has a clear explanation of how the independent variables were arrived at and the measurement of validity and reliability (Burns Grove, 2003).Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More A close examination of the article clearly indicates that there are a number of relationships studied. For instance, having an accurate assessment instrument to detect early high-risks signs of sickle cell anemia and reduction in the rates of mortality and morbi dity is evident. Another relationship is high-risk of attributes and severe cases of sickle cell. The relationship makes the reader appreciate the importance of the study. Similarly, as pointed out by Beth, 2010 such knowledge make the relevant stakeholders especially nurses, parents and medics to take necessary steps in saving the lives of children suffering from the disorder. It also gives room to other scholars to carry out research on the same line of reasoning. The three extraneous variables that the author could examine and impact on the outcome are the following; education level and experience of nurses, gender of the children under study and reticulocyte count. Carrying out reticulocyte count would have influence the author in documenting whether anemia is cause by fewer red blood cell or greater loss the red blood cell (Day, 2004). Similarly, it could help establish whether anemia treatment is really working. The education level and experience of nurses could impact on the values attained when testing validity and reliability. It has been noted that SS/SÃŽ ²0 individuals had a decrease in steady-state SpO2 and influenced among other factors gender of the victims. The author concluded that although the efforts to predict children/infants suffering from sickle cell help in initiating a timely medication of the disorder, there is dire need to have in place an assessment instrument that will accurately assess the infants before referring them to therapies that do not have risks. This is vital in reducing the rates of children succumbing to the disorder later in life (Polit Beck, 2007). Iron Deficiency Anemia: Following Prenatal Nutrition Interventions Article two is a research conducted to study iron deficiency anemia prevalence by following prenatal nutritional interventions. Despite the fact that the authors did not in a succinct manner states the research questions and hypotheses, a close examination of the research make the reader easily come up with two major research questions; these revolves around how prevalent is iron deficiency anemia in pregnant women and infant from a low-income background and what are the major/common factors for development of iron deficiency anemia in pregnant women (Leblanc, et al. 2007). In my view, the research question suits the problem and readers can be able to with ease establish them. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative approach. This is attributed to the fact that the study generated both numeric and non-numeric data that help in arriving at the conclusion. The use of this study approach has made the authors come up with comprehensive and authentic conclusion as well as recommendations.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Sickle cell and Anemia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The authors of the article did come up with a number of independent variables. These include; iron deficiency anemia and major common ris ks factors for development of iron deficiency anemia, women education, family status, ethnicity and social economic status. Similarly there are a set of dependent variables that the authors have brought out clearly and include hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity and transferring saturation (Leblanc, et al. 2007) Dependent variable are those attributes in research that are affected by independent variable during a study while independent variables are attributes or factors that can be varied or manipulated during a study. From a close examination of the whole study, there is no indication of conceptual definition of dependent variables. However, the authors did manage to list them iron deficiency anemia and major common risks factors for development of iron deficiency anemia, women education, family status, ethnicity and social economic status. Similarly there are a set of dependent variables that the authors have brought out c learly and include hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity and transferring saturation (Leblanc, et al. 2007). On the same note, there is some evidence of conceptual definition of dependent variables. This has made it possible for readers to be aware of the possible courses of action to be taken and similarly the approach used by the researcher from developing research problem to conclusion. Strictly speaking, the authors did mention the various dependent and independent variables but have not fully defined the variables in a succinct manner. It is worth to bear in mind that studies that depict a clear operational definition of both independent and dependent variable are easy to be replicated by others and there is no or minimal confusion during communication (Polit Beck, 2007). For this reason, the study lack adequate operational definition leaving some audiences with difficulties in trying to gasp the content of the study. Howe ver, the slight operational definition especially in terms of methodology can make the study procedures to be replicated with ease. Throughout the research, there is clear evidence that a number of relationships were studied. For example, the relationships between IDA prevalence and breastfeeding, social-economic status of women and age to mention but a few were discussed (Leblanc, et al. 2007). The relationships findings are what guided the authors in arriving to the conclusions.Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Although it is true that a research need to set its delimitations by defining the variables to be studied, this research did have the potential of including the following extraneous variables; previous participation of the women in Early Childhood Initiative program, family history of the women concerning IDA and education level and experience of the nutritionists. It is evident that mother who did participate in previous ECI program if incorporated in the study will impact on the results and eventually the conclusion (Burns Grove, 2003). On the same note, women who had IDA history in their family tree would also give insight on the results obtained. With regards to level of education and experience of nutritionist, those with higher level of education and longer years of experience would help generate more accurate information as compared to those with lower or same level of education but with minimal years of experience. According to Leblanc, et al. 2007 it is established that an emia prevalence in women and infant from a lower low income background was similar with that of the same women and infant from a higher income background. Similarly, the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in infant is analogous to what has been found in the groups of high risks. They contend that there is need to have in place effective mechanisms in place to curb the problem especially in the groups deemed susceptible. References Beth, L. (2010). â€Å"Guidelines for Critique of Research Reports†. Web. Burns, N. Grove, S. (2003). Understanding Nursing Research. New York: Blackwell Publishing. Day, S. (2004). â€Å"Development and Evaluation of a Sickle Cell Disease Assessment Instrument† Pediatric Nursing. 30(6): 1-9. Leblanc, et al. (2007). â€Å"Iron Deficiency Anemia: Following Prenatal Nutrition Interventions† Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research. 68(4):222-225. Polit, F. Beck, C. (2007). Essentials of Nursing Research. Baltimore: Lippinco tt.

Summery PHIL Example

Summery PHIL Example Summery PHIL – Book Report/Review Example Summery PHIL Sartre in his article â€Å"Existentialism and Human Emotions† defends existentialism by stating that many people complain about existentialism as they misunderstand the philosophy as too much pessimistic and gloomy. Sartre categorises existentialists into Christian and atheistic existentialists and he considers himself as an atheistic existentialist; he believes that essence precedes existence and exhorts that â€Å"there is no human nature, since there is no God to conceive it† (p.15). Sartre stresses that it is one’s will and conscious decision that makes him human; one should understand what he is and should be responsible for his own individuality. Existentialism also stresses on the element of subjectivity and individual responsibility; the choices and actions of one man can affect all men and as a result one’s responsibility deepens as it involves all mankind. Thus every man is supposed to be exemplary in his actions and this sense of d eep responsibility can create a sort of existential anguish in man’s mind. Sartre argues that this anguish should lead to prompt actions rather than making one inactive. Sartre is of the opinion that a man leaves nothing in this world rather than what he does; thus, for him â€Å"reality alone is what counts† and man’s hopes, dreams and expectations are nothing (p. 33). Sartre purports that existentialism is not a philosophy that promotes quietism, pessimism or inaction; rather it is a philosophy of life that promotes action and optimism. Existentialism holds that â€Å"man’s destiny is within himself† and that one can fulfil his hopes only through his action (p. 35-36). However, the ethics of action and involvement is subject to private subjectivity even though one’s thoughts can make one a unique individual who is moved by self-awareness of one’s consciousness. Sartre goes on to argue that existentialism does not reduce man to mere objects whereas it upholds human dignity (p. 36-37). Sartre concludes by stating that there is a universal essence in human nature and considers universality of all men as a key characteristic of the existential point of view (p. 38-39).

Definition of Gerrymander

Definition of Gerrymander To gerrymander is to draw the boundaries of electoral districts in an irregular way so as to create an unfair advantage for a particular political party or faction. The origin of the term gerrymander dates back to the early 1800s in Massachusetts. The word is a combination of the words Gerry, for the states governor, Elbridge Gerry, and salamander, as a particular electoral district was jokingly said to be shaped like a lizard. The practice of creating oddly shaped electoral districts to create advantages has endured for two centuries. Criticisms of the practice can be found in newspapers and books going back to the time of the incident in Massachusetts that inspired the term. And while it has always been viewed as something done wrongfully, nearly all political parties and factions have practiced gerrymandering when given the opportunity. The Drawing of Congressional Districts The United States Constitution specifies that seats in Congress are apportioned according to the U.S. Census (indeed, thats the original reason why the federal government has conducted a census every ten years). And the individual states must create congressional districts which will then elect members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The situation in Massachusetts in 1811 was that the Democrats (who were political followers of Thomas Jefferson, not the later Democratic Party which still exists) held the majority of seats in the state legislature, and could therefore draw the required Congressional districts. The Democrats wanted to thwart the power of their opponents, the Federalists, the party in the tradition of John Adams. A plan was devised to create Congressional districts that would divide any concentrations of Federalists. With the map drawn in an irregular way, small pockets of Federalists would then be residing within districts where they would be heavily outnumbered. The plans to draw these peculiarly shaped districts were, of course, highly controversial. And the lively New England newspapers engaged in quite a battle of words, and, eventually, even pictures. The Coining of the Term Gerrymander There has been dispute over the years of who exactly coined the term gerrymander. An early book on the history of American newspapers stated that the word arose from a meeting of the Boston newspaper editor Benjamin Russell and the famed American painter Gilbert Stuart. In Anecdotes, Personal Memoirs, and Biographies of Literary Men Connected With Newspaper Literature, published in 1852, Joseph T. Buckingham presented the following story: In 1811, when Mr. Gerry was governor of the commonwealth, the legislature made a new division of the districts for the election of representatives to Congress. Both branches then had a Democratic majority. For the purpose of securing a Democratic representative, an absurd and singular arrangement of towns in the county of Essex was made to compose a district. Russell took a map of the county, and designated by a particular coloring the towns thus selected. He then hung the map on the wall of his editorial closet. One day, Gilbert Stuart, the celebrated painter, looked at the map, and said the towns, which Russell had thus distinguished, formed a picture resembling some monstrous animal. He took a pencil, and, with a few touches, added what might be supposed to represent claws. There, said Stuart, that will do for a salamander.Russell, who was busy with his pen, looked up at the hideous figure, and exclaimed, Salamander! Call it Gerrymander!The word became a proverb, and, for many years, was in popular use among the Federalists as a term of reproach to the Democratic legislature, which had distinguished itself by this act of political turpitude. An engraving of the Gerrymander  was made, and hawked about the state, which had some effect in annoying the Democratic Party. The word gerrymander, often rendered in hyphenated form as gerry-mander, began to appear in New England newspapers in March 1812. For instance, the Boston Repertory, on March 27, 1812, published an illustration representing the oddly shaped Congressional district as a lizard with claws, teeth, and even the wings of a mythical dragon. A headline described it as A New Species of Monster. In the text below the illustration an editorial said: The district may be exhibited as a Monster. It is the offspring of moral and political depravity. It was created to drown the real voice of the majority of the citizens in the country of Essex, where it is well known there is a large federal majority. Outrage Over the Gerry-Mander Monster Faded Though New England newspapers blasted the newly drawn district and the politicians who created it, other newspapers in 1812 reported the same phenomenon had occurred elsewhere. And the practice had been given a lasting name. Incidentally, Elbridge Gerry, the Massachusetts governor whose name wound up being the basis for the term, was the leader of the Jeffersonian Democrats in the state at the time. But there is some dispute whether he even approved of the scheme to draw the oddly shaped district. Gerry had been a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and had a long career of political service. Having his name dragged into the conflict over the Congressional districts seemed not to harm him, and was a successful vice-presidential candidate in the election of 1812. Gerry died in 1814 while serving as vice president in the administration of President James Madison. Gratitude is expressed to the New York Public Library Digital Collections for the use of the early 19th century illustration of The Gerry-Mander.

NIMBY phenomenon + Home Rule + flexible zoning Research Paper

NIMBY phenomenon + Home Rule + flexible zoning - Research Paper Example Their point of argument is that such projects ruin the image of that particular place. They are also concerned that this would lead immense pollution of their environment. Pollution in this case refers to the noise, dust, fumes and odor that would come with these projects. This phenomenon has applied in many cases since time in memorial. For instance, in 1970, a proposal to build a mega railway connecting five cities in Texas was terminated due to residents’ defiance against it. The people near the tracks had a preformed mentality that building the rail would affect their tranquility due to noise. Despite the explanation by the proponent that good technology would be applied to ensure minimal noise, the residents were not ready to change their minds. Another example is the proposal to construct a metro system In Washington. This was in 1960s, whereby the Georgetown victoriously defeated this proposal. As much as many people would like to support the NIMBY phenomena, it is important to note that this phenomenon does not hold water. In most cases, the residents fail to be open minded, and are under the influence of their peers. The developments come along with their own benefits. Failure to embrace that opportunity leads to an immense loss. A good example is the two towns we have mentioned above. While Georgetown lost an opportunity for better transport system and metro stops, Texas lost an opportunity for drawing investors into their city. In my opinion, the NIMBY groups were better of supporting the projects rather than defying them. Home rule has its roots in Missouri, where it was authorized in their constitution. This was back in the year 1875. Is a scheme that deals with the relation of the municipal and the state? It gives the city dwellers a mandate to generate a charter for their particular government. Before the introduction of this

Arg Synthesis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Arg Synthesis - Essay Example Additionally, the paper will define global warming. Consequently, it will analyze the causes of global warming and SDSU’s commitment in honoring the climate action plan (CAP). Global warming is primarily defined as the amplification and rise in earth’s temperature because of fossil fuels, industrial pollution and agricultural practices by human beings, and natural gas emissions (Chapin III et al, 1991). Due to these factors, greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere in large quantities. Short wave solar radiations are absorbed into the earth hence increasing its surface temperature. According to experts, greenhouse gases are the main cause of the rise of the earth’s temperature. Greenhouse gases increase the heat trapping ability of the earth. The major causes of global warming are divided into two groups; man-made causes and natural causes. Natural causes are the factors amplified by nature. For example, the emission of methane gas from frosty tundra and wetlands is an example of a natural cause. Methane gas traps heat in the earth’s atmospheres hence raising earth’s temperature. As such, it is a greenhouse gas. Meanwhile, man-made causes result from human activities on the surface of the earth. Man-made effects are the major cause of global warming. Pollution is the major cause of global warming. It results from coal, fossil fuels or oil burning pollutes the environment by releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Also, methane gas is released into the atmosphere when human beings excavate fossil fuels or minerals. The increase in the human population is another significant cause of global warming. A higher population means more transportation methods are needed, which translates to more fossil fuels b eing mined and burned hence increasing methane gas in the atmosphere (Cox et al, 2000). Additionally, an increase in population means more land is being cleared for farming and settlements. This has an impact

The Rights of Children With Respect to Education and Health Essay

The Rights of Children With Respect to Education and Health - Essay Example This issue has the potential for controversy, as a reference to "religion" has the potential to encompass a wide range of subject matters in the social and physical sciences. Potential disagreements are predicted in terms of natural history, such as lessons concerning dinosaurs and evolutionary theory. Even matters purely in the purview of recorded human history could provoke contention, such as descriptions of the Crusades, or the Holocaust, or possibly any form of comparative religious study. (Dickerson, 2009 A) Sources in the government describe the purpose of these amendments as a clarification of the Alberta human rights and citizenship commission responsibilities. This is seen as a necessity in order to streamline the process by which rights appeals are efficiently addressed as they arise. This is accomplished through the separation human rights commission's current role as an investigative body, as well as the deliberative organization that mediates and the judges complaints. Separating these two functions should improve the efficiency of your product functions relating to the resolution of human rights allegations. A funding increase also assisted the commission in the execution of these duties.ntial to address additional complexities in complaint resolution likely to stem from these measures. The government's ability to address   issues of free speech has not been abridged. The commission retains unlimited power to issue judgments on matters pertaining expression. This has important implications regarding the potential for censorship of written material. This is contrary to predictions by government insiders, but considerable deliberation occurred in regards to the consequences of any removal of the term "publications". (Government of Alberta, 2009 C), (Dickerson, 2009 A) free speech advocates were disappointed by the measure, who had submitted policy recommendations in favor of the removal of measures which they felt represented limitations upon fre e expression in Alberta. (Fekete, 2009) Supporters anticipate few arguments as a result of these measures. While parents theoretically have the freedom to remove their children from these classes that might cover sensitive subjects, the number of parents that execute that power are limited. However, additional scrutiny is warranted according to opposition parties within the government, who are likely to subject parental opt-out clauses to closer examination within legislative deliberations. (Audette, 2009.), (Dickerson, 2009 A) The available information describing the concerns of government officials and free speech advocates shape their concern without regard to the child's opinion. Understandable, and arguably normal - as it is the parents

Hamlet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 9

Hamlet - Essay Example The general male attitude towards women is well elucidated by Hamlet in Act II, Scene 2: â€Å"Frailty, thy name is woman† (Shakespeare, 29). Women were not considered able to think rationally and cleverly or worthy of being educated, take up employment, vote or hold public office. As a result, women lost their identity by meekly permitting themselves to be molded by the men in their lives (Brown). Gertrude and Ophelia, the two female characters in Elsinore, the Danish Royal Castle that is the epicenter of ‘Hamlet,’ are no exception. Although both are very beautiful, they are greatly disadvantaged due to the absence of female tradition and the absence of any significant female influence (like a mother or sister). They are dominated by the men in their lives. The hierarchy needed the presence of docile females so that they men could wield roles of power; Gertrude and Ophelia are such perfect docile foils to the dominant males in their lives (Brown). Both are depicted as weak and not self-reliant. They are both unable to think on their own and arrive at logical conclusions, but rely on the men in their lives to take decisions on their behalf (Angelfire.com). Gertrude tamely lets her life be molded by the three dominant males in her life – her first husband King Hamlet, her second husband Claudius and her son Hamlet. When King Hamlet dies, Gertrude is suddenly bereft of a major person who controlled her actions and identity. Acting by instinct, she makes haste to find a replacement as quickly as possible. In Act 1, Scene 2, she marries her brother-in-law Claudius just two months after King Hamlet’s death, well knowing that in those days a widow’s act of remarrying her husband’s brother was looked upon as incest (Melani). In an indication that shows Gertrude has never exercised the freedom or power of independent

Economic case for Precision agricuture apply to Ireland Article

Economic case for Precision agricuture apply to Ireland - Article Example Tobacco is also grown in limited areas. Irish agriculture mainly comprises of the small family farm. About 67 percent of the farms cover less than 50 acres (20 hectares), and another 25 percent are smaller than 20 acres (8 hectares). The number of people employed in agriculture continues to decrease as mechanization increases and young men and women find better-paying occupations in the cities. The number of agricultural workers in Ireland declined by about 50 percent between the years 1960 and 1991 (Britannica Student Encyclopedia, 2006). The future of Irish agriculture greatly depends on sustainable practices and proper economic planning. Precision agriculture is one of the best ways to increase the farm production. Precision Agriculture is a now a term used throughout agricultural systems worldwide. Precision agriculture can be defined as a comprehensive system designed to optimize agricultural production through the application of crop information, advanced technology and management practices. Precision agriculture begins with crop planning and includes tillage, planting, chemical applications, harvesting, and post harvest processing of the crop (Roberson, 2004). Precision farming utilizes three technologies: Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Variable Rate Technology (VRT). GPS provides navigation that can position a tractor within a few feet anywhere in a field. GIS computer systems capture, manage, and analyze spatial data relating crop productivity and field inputs. VRT provides "on-the-fly" estimation of field inputs. Working in concert, GIS, GPS, and VRT provide information that allows producers to apply inputs, such as fertilizers and insecticides, precisely in a sustainable manner (Ball and Peterson 2001). Further the collected information may be used to more precisely evaluate optimum sowing density, estimate specifically fertilizers and other inputs needs, and to more accurately

The study and history of Electroconvulsive therapy and how it has Essay

The study and history of Electroconvulsive therapy and how it has changed over the years (its present,past and future) and it sh - Essay Example ECT is a highly technical procedure requiring a team that consists of an anaesthetist, a psychiatrist, psychiatric nurses and recovery nurses. Doing a study on how ECT has changed over the years has given me an insight of how the use of ECT in the treatment of mental health illness has changed over the years. Undergoing this study has also enabled me to implement an important role in caring for patient who receive ECT, especially in the areas of pre- and post-treatment care. Mental health nursing care for the ECT patient has evolved from a traditional supportive and adjunctive practice to the current practice of independent and collaborative nursing actions. The nurse’s multifaceted role in ECT is enacted by providing education and support, performing pre-treatment assessments, monitoring the procedure, observing and interpreting post-treatment patient responses, and this study has helped me understand how I fit into that role. Electroconvulsive therapy is considered one of th e more effective methods for the treatment of persistent depression that has proven resistant to treatment with medication or psychotherapy. The method even has an extremely high rate of success, reportedly between fifty up to ninety percent, when ECT is used as an initial treatment for severe cases of index depression, a major depressive episode that presents with a specific start date and normal mood before that date. If used for schizophrenia, ECT is usually combined with pharmaceutical treatments as well. When used together in this manner, the treatment is shown to reduce the risks of future relapse, more so than treatment with the medication alone (Taylor 2007). Mechanism of Treatment and Treatment Activities Electroconvulsive therapy treats psychiatric disorders through the induction of generalized seizure activity in the brain, and some have suggested that the seizure activity alone is the mechanism of treatment (Bolwig 2011). However, despite the years of experience with the treatment in the medical community and just as many years of research, the exact reasons for its success are still unclear (Madsen et al 1999). Many possible reasons for it have been suggested. One possible suggestion for the mechanism of the treatment has been that it may induce neurogenesis (Madsen et al 1999). Neurogenesis is the growth of new neural cells, but only recently has it been discovered that such new neurons can grow in the adult human brain throughout life. Adult neurogenesis has been suggested as a method to treat neurological and psychological disorders, as part of or separate from ECT (Eisch & Nestler 2002). ECT has also been found to increase synaptic activity in the brain as well as forming these new neurons and neural connections, another possibility for its mechanism (Bolwig 2011). Another suggestion for mechanism is based on its efficacy in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Patients who are treated for major depressive disorder with ECT are found to have elevated levels of pancreatic polypeptide after successful treatment, which is known to be secreted after activation of the vagal nerve complex. Researchers have used these findings to conclude that vagal nerve stimulation may be the responsible mechanism for electroconvulsive therapy, at least for those patients being treated for depressive disorders (Bar et al. 2010). During electroconvulsive therapy, the patient is put under general anaesthesia and pharmacologically

Economic case for Precision agricuture apply to Ireland Article

Economic case for Precision agricuture apply to Ireland - Article Example Tobacco is also grown in limited areas. Irish agriculture mainly comprises of the small family farm. About 67 percent of the farms cover less than 50 acres (20 hectares), and another 25 percent are smaller than 20 acres (8 hectares). The number of people employed in agriculture continues to decrease as mechanization increases and young men and women find better-paying occupations in the cities. The number of agricultural workers in Ireland declined by about 50 percent between the years 1960 and 1991 (Britannica Student Encyclopedia, 2006). The future of Irish agriculture greatly depends on sustainable practices and proper economic planning. Precision agriculture is one of the best ways to increase the farm production. Precision Agriculture is a now a term used throughout agricultural systems worldwide. Precision agriculture can be defined as a comprehensive system designed to optimize agricultural production through the application of crop information, advanced technology and management practices. Precision agriculture begins with crop planning and includes tillage, planting, chemical applications, harvesting, and post harvest processing of the crop (Roberson, 2004). Precision farming utilizes three technologies: Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Variable Rate Technology (VRT). GPS provides navigation that can position a tractor within a few feet anywhere in a field. GIS computer systems capture, manage, and analyze spatial data relating crop productivity and field inputs. VRT provides "on-the-fly" estimation of field inputs. Working in concert, GIS, GPS, and VRT provide information that allows producers to apply inputs, such as fertilizers and insecticides, precisely in a sustainable manner (Ball and Peterson 2001). Further the collected information may be used to more precisely evaluate optimum sowing density, estimate specifically fertilizers and other inputs needs, and to more accurately

Medieval Philosophy Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Medieval Philosophy - Assignment Example Hence, metaphysical forces, including heavenly bodies and evil spirits, constrain human desires and create hurdles on the way to getting involved in different activities out of their free will. Furthermore, since the blessings and bounties showered by God upon humans, bring joys in their life, so humans must seek His protection in order to escape misfortunes in life. However, God has also granted powers to the evil forces existing in the universe and has allowed them to hurt and harm the individuals through their trickery. These forces tempt humans to follow their desires without making the adequate judgment between right and wrong. Consequently, there seems to be a high probability of humans to become prey to the evil temptations by extending their wishes and desires to a great extent. As a result, natural forces inflict the humans with deprivations that constraint their free will and limit their actions and conducts for the future days to come on the basis of the foreknowledge the Providence maintains. Question 3 (Answer): Contemporary era theologian and philosopher, Nelson Pike, has critically examined the Boethius’ doctrine regarding omniscience and free will. Since Boethius has submitted his claim that it is omniscience that constrains human free will, no human action is free and independent one in its nature and scope. However, Pike refutes the very notion by declaring it false and against the very evidence altogether. Pike is of the view that since God is all-Knowing and all-Powerful, He has foreknowledge of each and every incident that would happen in the life of every human throughout his life. Pike supports his thesis with several illustrations and examples, in order to clarify his argument regarding the powers granted to humans by the Lord for performing their domestic and professional duties and obligations. If a person, Pike argues, is determined to do something either trivial or important, God certainly maintains foreknowledge of it. Howeve r, He has allowed humans to apply their free will, out of their personal choices, in order to perform their everyday activities without any hurdle or obstacle on the way. In other words, though every incident to be taken place in the world in the life of humans is in the knowledge of God, yet He does not restrict the humans from taking part in individual and collective activities of their choice by constraining each and every human action. On the contrary, He has gifted the humans with the powers to even negate His very existence, as atheist observe, though He has complete foreknowledge of it. If God starts imposing constraints on every human action, then there would neither be any space for the atheists and infidels nor could humans be able to make this world a region where crimes, offenses, sins, and law-breaking occur very frequently. Thus, Pike nullifies Boethius’s doctrine that God’s omniscience limits human actions in such a powerful manner that it destroys the c oncept of free will altogether. However, Boethius does not claim that every human action is barred by the natural regulatory authorities.

Inter-organizational Cooperation Essay Example for Free

Inter-organizational Cooperation Essay The fundamental principle of a resonance inter-organizational cooperation is that an agency must give up something in order to get something else in return. The cooperation of local or international organizational is fostered to ensure that both organization benefit from each other. The inter-organizational attraction brought about by trust plays a big role in helping such collaborations to achieve their goals. Paying much attention on developing leadership styles that will promote effectual and collaborative value chains through building of a closer relationship which comprises of trust, commitment, cooperation, and coordination needed between organization members guarantees success of the alliance. Inter-organizational cooperation has continued focusing on leadership as the key for its success. A clear leadership of a focal organization accounts for a stable alliance by guaranteeing legitimacy and authority within the alliance. Effective leadership helps to deal with social, economic and environmental concerns within the inter-organization (Ebers, 1999). In addition, the inter-organization cooperation are increasingly focusing on leadership so as to ensure coordination by merging resources to achieve new things and address common issues through group decision making. Consequently, the leadership behavior of adapting to the competitive global environment through inter-organizational cooperation rather than competing in an adversarial manner ensures survival of the collaboration. This can be attained through impacting leaders with supply chain management skills so that they may be able to establish and maintain effective inter-organizational networks. Proper investment in leaders will ensure that the desired business results are met given that leaders will facilitate an open exchange of proposals which will foster collaboration. Examples include; Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), International Labor Organization (ILO) and Consortia and Enduring Construction firms in the U. S.

A Non-Pacifist Argument Against Capital Punishment Essay -- Argumentat

A Non-Pacifist Argument Against Capital Punishment ABSTRACT: In this paper I present a moral argument against capital punishment that does not depend upon the claim that all killing is immoral. The argument is directed primarily against non-philosophers in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Oddly, the moral argument against capital punishment has not been effective in the United States despite the biblical injunction against killing. Religious supporters of the death penalty often invoke a presumed distinction between ‘killing’ and ‘murdering’ and avow that God forbade the latter but not the former. Self-defense and just wars are cited as cases of morally justified killing. Accepting these premises, I point out that when cases of justified killing in self-defense are altered to include an element of delay, disarming and premeditation, they too become murder. Since the death penalty clearly involves the elements of delay, disarming and premeditation, I conclude that the death penalty is murder in the biblical sen se and ought to be abolished in any God-fearing (or otherwise moral) society. Traditional opposition to capital punishment has generally been based on one or more of the following claims: (1) Capital punishment is immoral because all killing is immoral, (2) Capital punishment is unjust because killing is irreversible, or (3) Capital punishment is ineffective because killing is not a deterrent to killing. I propose to argue instead that capital punishment is immoral because of the kind of killing it is, rather than because it is a kind of killing simpliciter. This is a specifically moral argument, but it differs from the usual pacifist argument in that it does not assert or depend upon the claim that all killing is i... ...emeditation, they too become murder. Since the death penalty clearly involves the elements of delay, disarming, and premeditation, I conclude that the death penalty is murder in the biblical sense and ought to be abolished in any God-fearing society. Notes (1) Haines, Herbert H., Against Capital Punishment, p. 163 (2) Shin, Kilman, Death Penalty and Crime: Empirical Studies, p. 4-5 Bibliography Haines, Herbert H., Against Capital Punishment: The Anti-Death Penalty Movement in America, 1972-1994; New York/Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1996 Hart, Harold H. (ed.), Punishment: For & Against; New York: Hart Publishing Company, Inc., 1971 Shin, Kilman, Death Penalty and Crime: Empirical Studies; Fairfax, VA: George Mason University Center for Economic Analysis, 1978 Sorell, Tom, Moral Theory and Capital Punishment; Oxford: Basil Blackwell, 1987

One Students Observations of an Online Community Essay -- Sell Websit

One Student's Observations of an Online Community   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   An online community is a place where individual users with common interest come together to build relationships with similar people.   Recently I was looking through the Yahoo and MSN websites, searching for an interesting community to join.   Unfortunately, all of the message boards I was interested in had been inactive for over a year.   Online communities must involve growing relationships among active users.   Many people believe that online communities are a waste of time and are destroying our current society.   Howard Rheingold, an author, argues another point of view (92).   Ã‚  Ã‚   Rheingold states that a virtual community is an online group in which relationships are developed through interaction.   He also says that virtual communities are an advance in the uprising technological world.   Virtual communities bring people of different backgrounds and locations together through a common interest (Rheingold 93).   Rheingold shares with his audience stories of young parents rallying together while their infants are in critical condition. This exemplifies that online relationships are important to many people.   Rheingold argues that although we may not experience face to face interaction with fellow online users, it does not keep us from developing a sound and structured society.   It may not be traditional, but online communities are societies that are here to stay.   The relationships developed through online communities will remain only if users post frequently and take a genuine interest in other user's posts (Rheingold 9 2-97).   In an attempt to find a community to join and a group of people I could form growing relationships with I logged on to many diff... ...own at collegehumor.com, growing relationships are almost guaranteed.   This website has brought me to a group of people who I enjoy interacting with.   Although I have not been able to fully integrate into their community, I am hoping that with time, I will be considered a senior myself.   This message board community is a great place to sit back, relax, and let the laughter come.   Works Cited CollegeHumor.com.   Homepage. 28 Oct. 2002.  Ã‚   <http://www.collegehumor.com/bbs/> "God damn headaches."   1 Posting.   Online Posting. 30 Sept.   2002. 7 Oct. 2002 http://www.collegehumor.com/bbs/ "God damn headaches."   6 Posting.   Online Posting. 30 Sept.   2002. 7 Oct. 2002.  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.collegehumor.com/bbs/ Rheingold, Howard.   "The Virtual Community."   The Wired Society.   Ed.   Carol Lea Clark. New York: Harcourt Brace College Publishers, 1999.   92-97.   

Succubus Blues CHAPTER 24

â€Å"Well?† Roman asked softly. â€Å"What do you think? Will you go with me?† â€Å"I don't know,† I replied, looking down. â€Å"I'm afraid.† A tremulous note hung in my voice. He turned my face toward his, obviously concerned. â€Å"Afraid of what?† I looked at him through my lashes. It was a demure action. Vulnerable, even. Hard to resist. I hoped. â€Å"Of†¦ of them. I want to†¦ but I don't think†¦ I don't think we could ever be free. You can't hide from them, Roman. Not forever.† â€Å"We can,† he breathed, putting his arms around me, his heart swelling at my fear. I didn't resist at all, letting him press his body up against mine. â€Å"I told you. I can protect you. I'll find the angel tomorrow, and we'll leave the next day. It's that easy.† â€Å"Roman†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I stared up at him, my eyes wide, the look of one overcome with some emotion. Hope, maybe. Passion. Wonder. I saw my expression mirrored in his own, and when he leaned down to kiss me, I didn't stop him this time. I even kissed him back. It had been a long time since I'd kissed simply for the sake of kissing, for the feel of his tongue gently pushing into my mouth, lips caressing mine as his hands held me tightly to him. I could have kissed like that forever, just enjoying the physical sensation, devoid of any succubus feeding. It was magnificent. Intoxicating, even. There was no fear. Roman wanted more than kissing, however, and when he pulled me down, right onto my living room carpet, I didn't stop him then either. Obvious heat and yearning filled his body. Yet, he moved carefully and slowly over me, showing a restraint that surprised and impressed me. I slept with so many guys that yielded right away to their own needs that it was downright astonishing to have someone apparently concerned with my fulfillment. No way was I complaining. He kept his body against mine, so there was no space between us as he continued kissing me. Eventually he moved from my mouth to my ear, tracing it with his tongue and lips before shifting to my neck. My neck has always been one of my more erogenous places, and I exhaled a trembling breath as that clever tongue slowly stroked the sensitive skin, making gooseflesh rise. I arched my body into his, letting him know he could have expedited things if he wanted, but he seemed to be in no hurry. Down, down he moved, kissing my breasts through the delicate charmeuse of my shirt until the fabric was wet and clung to my nipples. I sat up so he could pull the shirt off me entirely. While he was at it, he slid off the skirt too, so I was left only in panties. Still focused on my breasts, however, he continued kissing and touching them, varying between soft, feathery kisses and hard, biting ones that threatened to leave flowering purple bruises. At last he slid down, trailing his tongue along the smooth skin of my stomach, pausing when he finally reached my thighs. Meanwhile, I was a wreck, aching and desperate to touch his body in return. But when I reached for him, he gently pushed my wrists to the floor. â€Å"Not yet,† he admonished. I guess that was just as well since I was supposed to be doing something with time here. Buying it, right? Yeah, that was it. I was delaying so I could figure out a plan. A plan that I'd get to†¦ later. â€Å"Magenta,† he observed, running his fingers along the panties. They were flimsy, barely a collection of scraps of lace and sheer material. â€Å"Who'd have guessed?† â€Å"I almost never wear any clothes in the pink and magenta family,† I admitted, â€Å"but for some reason I love lingerie in those colors. And black, of course.† â€Å"It suits you. You can shape-shift these on anytime, right?† â€Å"Yeah, why?† He reached out and, with one deft motion, ripped them off. â€Å"Because they're in my way.† Bending down, he pushed my thighs apart and buried his face between them. His tongue moved slowly over the edges of my lips and then darted forward to stroke my burning, swollen clit. Moaning, I lifted and ground my hips into him, trying to get more of my aching need fulfilled. Once again, he pushed me back to the floor, taking his time, letting his tongue circle and tease me, driving me into higher and higher pleasure. Every time I seemed about to peak, he would pull back and move his tongue down, letting it actually probe inside me where I was growing wetter. When he finally let me come, I did so loudly and wildly, my body practically thrashing as he held me down and continued sucking and tasting through my spasms. By then, I was so sensitive and dizzy that his touch was almost too much. I heard myself begging him to stop, even as he made me come again. Easing up, he released me and backed off, watching as the blissful spasms in my body slowed down. Between us, we had his clothes off in about two seconds, and he laid his body over mine, pressing bare skin against bare skin. When my hands slid down, grasping and stroking his erection, he sighed with palpable bliss. â€Å"Oh God, Georgina,† he breathed, eyes on mine. â€Å"Oh God. You have no idea how much I want you.† Didn't I? I guided him toward me, sliding him inside. My body opened to him, welcoming him like a piece of myself I'd been missing, and he moved in and out of me with long, controlled strokes, watching my face and gauging how each angle and motion affected me. I'm buying time,I thought sagely, but as he pinned my wrists to the floor, claiming ownership of my body with each thrust, I knew I lied to myself. This was about more than just buying time to warn Jerome and Carter. This was about me. It was selfish. I had continuously craved Roman over the last few weeks, and now I had him. Not only that, but it was exactly as he had said: there was no survival here, only pleasure. I had had sex with other immortals before but not in some time. I had forgotten what it was like to not have someone else's thoughts in my head, to simply luxuriate in my own sensations. We moved with a practiced rhythm, like our bodies did this together all the time. Those controlled strokes grew more savage, less precise. Harder and fiercer he brought himself into me, like he was going to go through the floor. Someone was making a lot of noise, and I realized distantly that it was me. I was sort of losing track of what was around me, of coherent thought. There was only my body's response, the building force that consumed me and set me on fire and still made me demand more. I longed for completion and urged him on, bringing my body up to meet his and clenching the muscles around him. He gasped as he felt me grow tighter. His eyes burned with a near-primitive passion. â€Å"I want to see you come again,† he gasped out. â€Å"Come for me.† For whatever reason, it only took that command to finish me off, to plunge me over the edge of that dizzying ecstasy. I cried out more loudly, my throat long since gone hoarse. Whatever expression I wore, it was enough to drive him into his own finish. No sound came out as his lips parted, but he closed his eyes and held himself inside me after a final hard thrust, shaking with pleasure. When he had finished, his body still trembling with the force of his orgasm, he rolled off me onto his back, sweaty and satisfied. I turned toward him, splaying my fingers on his chest, admiring the lean muscles and tanned flesh of his body. â€Å"You're beautiful,† I told him, taking a nipple into my mouth. â€Å"You aren't so bad yourself,† he murmured, stroking my hair. Perspiration rolled off my body too, making some of the strands damp and curl up more than usual. â€Å"Is this you? Your real shape?† I shook my head, surprised by the question. I trailed my lips up to his neck. â€Å"I've only worn that body once since becoming a succubus. A long time ago.† Pausing mid-kiss, I asked, â€Å"You want something different? I can be anything you want me to be, you know.† He grinned, flashing those white teeth. â€Å"One of the perks of loving a succubus, no doubt.† Sitting up, he scooped me into his arms and then rose, slightly wobbly with the added weight. â€Å"But no. Ask me in another century, maybe, and I might have a different answer. For now, I've got a lot more to learn about this body.† He carried me off to my bedroom, where we made love in a slower, slightly more civilized manner, our bodies twining together like ribbons of liquid fire. With that initial animalism somewhat satisfied, we lingered longer now, exploring the different ways each person's body responded. We spent most of the night cycling through a pattern: slow and loving, fast and furious, rest, repeat. I grew exhausted somewhere around three and finally gave in to sleep, resting my head against his chest, ignoring the nagging worries in the back of my mind. I woke up a few hours later, sitting bolt upright as the previous night's events came slamming back into me with sharper clarity. I'd gone to sleep in a nephilim's arms. Talk about vulnerability. Yet†¦ here I was, still alive. Roman lay beside me, snug and warm, Aubrey at his feet. Both of them regarded me with tired, squinty eyes, wondering at my sudden motion. â€Å"What's the matter?† he asked, stifling a yawn. â€Å"N-nothing,† I assured him. Removed from passion, I found myself able to think a bit more clearly. What had I done ? Sleeping with Roman might have bought me time, but I was no closer to finding some way out of this crazy situation. Lying there, I caught sight of Carter's daffodils, and they jolted me into a decision. The flowers themselves had only been part of a small act, but something about them made me realize I could not sit passively by and let Roman kill Carter. I had to act, no matter the risk, no matter the likelihood of failure. We all have moments of weakness. It's how we recover from them that really counts. It didn't matter if I loved the nephilim and hated the angel, neither of which was entirely true. This was more about me, about the kind of person I was. I had spent centuries hurting men for my own survival, often devastatingly so, but I could not be a part of premeditated murder, no matter how noble the cause. I hadn't reached that stage of life. Not yet. I blinked back sudden tears, overwhelmed by what I had to do. What I had to do to Roman. â€Å"Then go back to sleep,† he murmured, running a hand along my body, from waist to thigh. Yes, I knew what I had to do. It was a long shot, hardly a solid plan, but I couldn't think of anything else to take advantage of Roman's current, off-guard mood. â€Å"I can't,† I explained, starting to get out of bed. â€Å"I have to work.† His eyes opened wider. â€Å"What? When?† â€Å"I open. I need to be there in a half hour.† He sat up, dismayed. â€Å"You work all day?† â€Å"Yup.† â€Å"I still had a few more things I wanted to do to you,† he mumbled, sliding an arm around my waist to pull me back, cupping a breast in his hand. I leaned back into him, feigning being caught up in passion. All right, I wasn't exactly feigning. † Mmm†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I turned my face toward his, brushing our lips together. â€Å"I could call in sick maybe†¦ not that they'd believe it. I'm never sick, and they know it.† â€Å"Fuck them,† he mumbled, pushing me back down into the bed, his hands growing bolder. â€Å"Fuck them so I can fuck you again.† â€Å"Then let me up,† I laughed. â€Å"I can't call in like this.† Reluctantly he released me, and I slid out of the bed, grinning back at him as I went. He watched me hungrily, like a cat sizing up prey. Honestly, I liked it. That desire quickly melted into apprehension as I walked into the living room and picked up my portable phone. I had left all the room doors open, acting as casual and relaxed as possible, giving Roman no cause for alarm. Knowing he could probably hear me in the living room, I mentally rehearsed my words as I dialed Jerome's cell phone number. Not surprisingly, however, the demon did not answer. Damn him. What good was our bond if I couldn't use it at will? Having anticipated this, I tried my next option: Hugh. If I got his cell's voice mail, I would be out of luck. I could not pull off my plan if I had to call his office number and wade through his arsenal of secretaries. â€Å"Hugh Mitchell speaking.† â€Å"Hey, Doug, it's Georgina.† A pause. â€Å"Did you just call me Doug?† â€Å"Look, I can't come in today. I think I've caught that bug that's been going around.† Roman wandered out of my bedroom, and I smiled at him as he made his way to my refrigerator. Meanwhile, Hugh tried to make sense of my nonsense. â€Å"Uh, Georgina†¦ I think you dialed the wrong number.† â€Å"No, I'm serious, Doug, so don't get smart with me. I can't come in, okay?† Dead silence. Finally Hugh asked, â€Å"Georgina, are you all right?† â€Å"No. I already told you that. Look, will you just pass it on?† â€Å"Georgina, what's going on – â€Å" â€Å"Well, I'm sure you'll figure out something,† I continued, â€Å"but it'll have to be without me. I'll try to be in tomorrow.† I disconnected and looked up at Roman, shaking my head. â€Å"It would figure Doug was there. He definitely didn't believe me.† â€Å"Knows you too well, huh?† he asked, drinking a glass of orange juice. â€Å"Yeah, but he'll cover for me, despite his complaining. He's good like that.† I tossed the phone onto the couch and approached Roman. Time for more distraction. I doubted Hugh would fully grasp the situation, but he would at least assume something wasn't right. As I had noted in the past, one couldn't live as long as an immortal did and be stupid. He would suspect something and hopefully hunt down Jerome. My job now was to keep the nephilim busy until the cavalry came. â€Å"So what exactly was it you wanted to do to me?† I purred. A number of things, as it turned out. We wound up back in my bedroom, and I discovered waiting out the time until Hugh could take action wasn't nearly as difficult as I had feared. Slight twinges of guilt tugged at me over enjoying Roman so much, especially now that I'd made my decision and called for help. He had murdered untold numbers of immortals and had designs on a near-friend. Still, I couldn't help my feelings. I was attracted to him – had been for a long time, even – and he was really, really good in bed. â€Å"Eternity doesn't seem so bad with you in my arms,† he murmured later, stroking my hair as I curled up against him. Turning my face toward his, I saw a somber expression in his eyes. â€Å"What's wrong?† â€Å"Georgina†¦ do you†¦ do you really want me to leave this angel alone?† â€Å"Yes,† I blurted out after a moment of surprise. â€Å"I don't want you to hurt anyone else.† He studied me for a long time before speaking. â€Å"Last night, when you asked me, I didn't think I could. I didn't think I could let it go. Now†¦ after being with you†¦ being like this. It just seems petty. Well, maybe petty isn't the right word. I mean, what they did to us was terrible†¦ but maybe if I keep going after them, I let them win. I become what they say I am. I let them keep dictating the parameters of my life. I'd be conforming to nonconformity, I guess, and missing what's really important. Like loving and being in love.† â€Å"Wh-what are you saying?† He cupped my cheek. â€Å"I'm saying, I'll do it, love. The past will not rule my present. For you, I'll walk away. You and me. We'll go today and leave all this behind. Get a home somewhere and start a life together. We can go to Vegas.† I turned rigid in his arms, my eyes widening. Oh God. A knock sounded at my door, and I nearly jumped ten feet. Only about forty minutes had passed. No, no, I thought. It was too soon. Especially in light of this sudden turnabout. Hugh couldn't have acted so fast. I didn't know what to do. Roman raised an eyebrow, curious more than anything else. â€Å"Expecting anyone?† I shook my head, trying to hide the racing of my heart. â€Å"Doug's always threatened to come get me,† I joked. â€Å"I hope he didn't finally decide to act on it.† Getting out of bed, I went to my closet, urging every nerve in my body to look nonchalant. I put on a deep red kimono, ran a hand self-consciously through my messy hair, and walked out to the living room, trying not to hyperventilate once out of Roman's sight. Oh Lord, I thought, approaching the door. What am I going to do? What am I going to – â€Å"Seth?† The writer stood outside, a bakery box in hand, his own face registering as much shock as mine undoubtedly did. I watched his eyes quickly slip up the length of me, and I suddenly became aware of how short my robe was and just how much the clinging silk revealed. His eyes snapped up to my face, and he swallowed. â€Å"Hi. I.,.that is†¦Ã¢â‚¬  One of my neighbors walked by, stopping and staring when he saw me in the robe. â€Å"Come in,† I urged Seth with a grimace, closing the door behind him. Having expected a cavalcade of immortals, I felt more confused than ever now. â€Å"I'm sorry,† he managed at last, trying to keep his eyes from drifting to my body. â€Å"I hope I didn't wake you†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"No†¦ no†¦ it's not a problem†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Naturally Roman chose that moment to make an appearance, coming down the hall from my bedroom in only boxers. â€Å"So what's – oh hey, how's it going? Seth, right?† â€Å"Right,† said Seth flatly, looking from me to Roman and then back to me. In the wake of that gaze, I didn't care about nephilim, immortals, or saving Carter. All I could think of was how this must look to Seth. Poor Seth, who had done nothing but be nice to me since I'd met him, yet who nonetheless managed to get hurt over and over by my insensitivity – not to mention an unfortunate set of circumstances. I didn't know what to say; I felt as mortified as he apparently did. I did not want him to see me like this, all of my lies and inconsistent signals coming to light. â€Å"Is that breakfast?† the nephilim asked cheerfully. He was the only one of us at ease. â€Å"Huh?† Seth still looked stunned beyond words. â€Å"Oh yeah.† He set the box down on my coffee table. â€Å"Keep it. It's a coffee cake. Maple pecan. As for me†¦ I'm going to†¦ I'm just going to leave now. I'm sorry to bother you. Really sorry. I knew it was your day off and just thought we could†¦ I don't know. You'd said yesterday†¦ well. It was stupid. I should have called. It was stupid. I'm sorry.† He started to turn, but the damage was done. Of all the possible scenarios, this would be the one in which short-spoken Seth chose to ramble. I knew it was your day off. Shit. Roman turned on me, the incredulity on his face transforming to fury before my eyes. â€Å"Who,† he gasped, voice barely coming out in his anger, â€Å"who did you call? Who the fuck did you call?† I stepped backward. â€Å"Seth, get out of – â€Å" Too late. A wave of power, not unlike the one Jerome had used on me, slammed against both Seth and me, thrusting us against my living room wall. Roman strode up to us, glaring at me, his eyes like blue flame. â€Å"Who did you call?† he roared. I didn't answer. â€Å"Do you have any idea what you've done?† Turning from us, he grabbed my phone and dialed. â€Å"I need you to get over here right now†¦.yes, yes, I don't fucking care. Leave it.† He recited my address and disconnected. I didn't need to ask who he had called. I knew. The other nephilim. His sister. Running a hand through his hair, Roman paced frantically around my living room. â€Å"Shit. Shit. You may have ruined everything!† he yelled at me. â€Å"Do you realize that? Do you realize that, you lying bitch? How could you do this to me?† I didn't respond. I couldn't. Movement, even talking, was too hard in that psychic net. I couldn't even look at Seth. God only knew what he must think of all of this. Ten minutes later, I heard another knock. If I had any sort of divine favor left, it would be Jerome and Carter, ready to come to my rescue. Surely even a succubus deserved a break now and then, I thought as I watched Roman open the door. Helena walked in. Oh, man. â€Å"About time,† Roman snapped, slamming the door behind her. â€Å"What's going – † She cut her words off, eyes widening at the sight of Seth and me. Turning back to Roman, she gave him and his boxers a once-over. â€Å"For crying out loud, what have you done now?† â€Å"Someone's coming,† he hissed, ignoring her question. â€Å"Right now.† â€Å"Who?† she demanded, hands on hips. There was no rasp in her voice now, and she looked amazingly competent. If I hadn't already been rendered speechless, the sight of her would have done it. â€Å"I don't know,† he admitted. â€Å"Probably our exalted sire. She called someone.† Helena turned and approached me, making terror sink into my bones as I realized my danger. Helena was the other nephilim. Crazy, swindling Helena. Helena, whom I had insulted on a number of occasions, mocked behind her back, and stolen employees from. The look on her face informed me she was considering all of those things as she stared me down. â€Å"Drop the field,† she snapped to Roman, and a moment later, Seth and I slumped forward, gasping, as the power released us. â€Å"Is he right? Did you call our father?† â€Å"I†¦ didn't call†¦ anyone†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"She's lying,† Roman observed mildly. â€Å"Who did you call, Georgina?† When I didn't answer, she walked over and slapped me hard, the impact making a loud crack. There was something oddly familiar about it, but then, there would be. Helena was the one who had beat me up that night on the street. I realized then she must have known it was me when I went to Krystal Starz, in spite of my disguise. Recognizing my signature, she had chosen to play with me, feeding me the lines about having a great future as she pushed titles and workshops on me. â€Å"Always difficult, aren't you?† she scoffed. â€Å"For years, I've put up with you and others like you, those who mock my lifestyle and teachings. I should have done something about you a long time ago.† â€Å"Why?† I wondered aloud, gaining control of my voice again. â€Å"Why do you do it? You, of all people, who know about angels and demons†¦ why do you tout the New Age bullshit?† She eyed me scathingly. â€Å"Is it really? Is it bullshit to encourage people to seize control of their own lives, to view themselves as sources of power instead of getting caught up in all the guilt of what's right and what's wrong?† When I didn't answer, she continued, â€Å"I teach people to empower themselves. I teach them to let go of sin and salvation, to learn how to find happiness now – in this world. True, some of it is†¦ embellished for the sake of creating wonder and awe, but what does that matter, if the ends are achieved? People walk away from my classes feeling like gods and goddesses. They find that within themselves, rather than selling out to some cold, hypocritical institution.† I couldn't even begin to formulate a response, and it occurred to me that Helena and Roman thought exactly alike, both of them dissatisfied with the system that had spawned them, each of them rebelling against it in different ways. â€Å"I know what you think of me. I've heard what you say about me. I saw you throw away the materials I gave you that night, no doubt thinking I was just some crazy, babbling New Age crackpot. And yet†¦ for someone so smugly confident, so critically self-righteous, you are one of the most unhappy people I've ever met. You hate the game, and yet you play it. You play it, and you defend it because you don't have the courage to do anything else.† She shook her head, chuckling dryly. â€Å"I didn't have to be psychic to give you any of those predictions. You are gifted, but you waste it. You are wasting your life, and you will spend it miserable and alone.† â€Å"I can't change what I am,† I told her hotly, stung by her words. â€Å"Spoken like a slave to the system.† â€Å"Fuck you,† I shot back. Having one's pride and self-identity shattered will often make a person irrationally angry, regardless if the point was well made. â€Å"Better a comfortable slave than some freakish divine bastard. It's no wonder your kind is being hunted to extinction.† She hit me again, this time packing nephilim power with the punch, not unlike that night in the alley. It hurt – a lot. â€Å"You little whore. You have no idea what you're talking about.† She moved to hit me again but was stopped as Seth suddenly pushed himself in front of me. â€Å"Stop it,† he exclaimed. â€Å"Stop it, all of – â€Å" A blast of power – from Roman or Helena, I didn't know – pushed Seth across the room, to the other wall. I flinched. â€Å"How dare you – † began Helena, her blue eyes flashing angrily. â€Å"You, a mortal, who have no idea what you're – â€Å" I was already moving before the words could even come out of her mouth. Seeing Seth abused sparked something in me, an angry response I knew to be hopeless but which I couldn't really prevent. I sprang at Helena, taking on the first shape that came to mind, no doubt thanks to seeing Aubrey earlier: a tiger. The transformation only took a second but hurt like hell, as my human body expanded, feet and hands turning to heavy, clawed paws. I had the element of surprise, but only for a moment, as I slammed into her, knocking her slight body to the floor. My victory was short lived. Before I could sink teeth into her neck, a hurricane-worthy force blew me from her into my china cabinet. The impact was ten times harder than the one that had pinned Seth and me earlier, and the pain jolted me back into my normal shape as glass and crystal broke behind me, pieces falling around me, cutting my skin. I moved again, frantic, knowing the futility but needing to do something, too caught up in battle lust. I lunged at Roman this time, urging my body to take on the shape of†¦ well, I didn't even know what. I had no specific form in mind, only features: claws, teeth, scales, muscles. Sharp. Large. Dangerous. A creature of nightmares, a true demon of hell. I never even came close to touching the nephilim, however. One or both of them anticipated me, mid-leap, throwing me back to land near Seth this time, his wide eyes watching me with terror and wonder. Bolts of power struck me, making me cry out in pain, shattering every nerve within me. My new shape's hide protected me only briefly, and then hurt and exhaustion made me lose control of the transformation. I slipped back into the slim, human body just as another net of power pinned me into place, ensuring I couldn't move anymore. My entire shape-shifting attack had lasted all of a minute, and I now felt completely drained and worn, my reserve of Martin Miller power finally dried up. So much for bravery. A nephilimcould easily blow one of you out of the water. â€Å"Valiantly done, Georgina,† chuckled Roman, wiping sweat off his brow. He had expended a great deal of power too, but he had a lot more of it to spend than I did. â€Å"Valiant, but foolish.† Walking over, he looked me up and down and shook his head with bitter amusement. â€Å"You don't know how to ration your energy. You've burned yourself out.† â€Å"Roman†¦ I'm so sorry†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I didn't need him to tell me how low on energy I was. I could feel it. I wasn't just low, I was empty. Running on fumes, so to speak. Looking at my hands, I saw my appearance flicker slightly, shimmering almost like a heat mirage. That was bad. Wearing a body for long enough, even if it isn't your original, becomes ingrained after a few years, and I had had this one for fifteen. It was second nature to me. I thought of it as my own; it was what I always unconsciously returned to. Yet, I was fighting to hold on to it right now, to not slip back to the body of my birth. This was bad – very bad. â€Å"Sorry?† Roman asked, and I saw on his face just how terribly I'd hurt him. â€Å"You can't even begin to imagine – â€Å" We all felt it at the same time. Roman and Helena spun around to shoot each other alarmed looks, and then my front door blew open. The bonds holding me dropped as the nephilim redirected their power at the apocalypse coming through. Brilliant light spilled inside, light so brilliant it hurt. Familiar light. The same terrible shape I'd seen in the alley appeared once more, only there were two of them this time. Mirror images. Indistinguishable. I didn't know who was who, but I remembered Carter's offhand observation from a week ago: an angel in full form will freak most beings out – it'll kill a mortal†¦ â€Å"Seth,† I whispered, turning from that glorious spectacle to look at the writer. He was staring at it, brown eyes wide with awe and fear as the glory of it drew him in. â€Å"Seth, don't look at them.† With my fleeting strength, I lifted a shimmering hand and turned his face toward mine. â€Å"Seth, don't look at them. Look at me. Only at me.† Somewhere beyond us, someone screamed. The world was blowing apart. â€Å"Georgina†¦Ã¢â‚¬  breathed Seth, gingerly touching my face. â€Å"What's wrong with you?† Focusing all of my will, I urged my body to fight and hold on to the shape he had first come to know me in. It was a losing battle. A dying one even. I could not survive much longer like this. Seth leaned closer to me, and I tuned out the sounds of chaos and destruction raging around us, instead focusing all the world, all of my perception, toward his face. I had said Roman was beautiful, but he was nothing – nothing at all – compared to Seth in that moment. Seth, with those long-lashed, quizzical brown eyes, kindness made manifest in all of his actions. Seth, his messy hair and slightly unkempt facial hair, framing a face which could not hide his nature, the strength of his character shining out at me, his soul like a beacon on a foggy night. â€Å"Seth,† I whispered. â€Å"Seth.† He leaned toward me, letting me draw him closer and closer, and then, as heaven and hell raged beyond, I kissed him.