Heroes, Heroism Exam Question - 1347 Words

The title â€Å"Heroes† immediately highlights heroism as a key theme to the novel, because it is planted into the reader’s sub-conscious mind, so they identify heroism in everything they read, even if that is not the concept Cormier’s intended to present. Acting as an umbrella term, â€Å"heroes† represents the many values associated with heroism, repeated throughout the novel. Some may see it as an overbearing, forced title that Cormier uses to make heroism into the main focus, because he failed to do so in the novel. However, I believe that the plethora of themes investigated, particularly contrasts of love-hate, guilt-forgiveness, appearances-reality and fear-bravery, are brought together in â€Å"Heroes† during the search for the definition of†¦show more content†¦LaSalle’s dedication to the renaissance of the Wreck Centre was second to none; likewise his efforts to make the children there happy were immeasurable. Talent seemed to be limitlessly supplied to Larry, shown through his ability to dance, perform, play sport – like table tennis, entertain and coax into inclusion. Everything Larry did in the Wreck Centre was undertaken with the utmost enthusiasm, so much so that despite his older, adult, teacher role, the children viewed him as one of them, just a perfect one! Only Nicole and Francis know that Larry LaSalle is really a fraud and that his love for the Wreck Centre kids is actually twisted and revolting. Although Francis is clearly of the opinion that Larry’s â€Å"one sin† of raping Nicole does â€Å"wipe away all the good†, Cormier manages to hold back on persuading the reader to adopt this belief, allowing them to make up their own mind. This suggests that Cormier is accepting that heroism does not have one single definition; instead it is more a case of individual perception. LaSalle was also a national hero. He was awarded the Silver Star for capturing an â€Å"enemy machine gun nest†, a brave, sacrificial, heroic act. Most notably, LaSalle’s gallantry was deliberate, unlike Francis’. Here lies a moral dilemma, in that the reader feels like they owe it to Nicole, the victim of LaSalle’s rape, to hate Larry and yet, they cannot deny that his behaviour in war was more heroic than Francis’, sinceShow MoreRelatedLiterary Terms3784 Words   |  16 PagesLiterary Terms Packet The terms in this packet will be used throughout the semester in literature discussions and on exams. Please memorize and be able to use and identify all terms in papers and on exams. Some information in this packet came from Modern English by Arnold Lazarus, et.al. and A Dictionary of Literary, Dramatic, and Cinematic Terms by Sylvan Barnet, et.al. Allusion A reference to someone or something that is known from history, literature, religion, politics or some otherRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 Pages4 Myth or Science? â€Å"Most Acts of Workplace Bullying Are Men Attacking Women† 12 An Ethical Choice Can You Learn from Failure? 24 glOBalization! Does National Culture Affect Organizational Practices? 30 Point/Counterpoint Lost in Translation? 31 Questions for Review 32 Experiential Exercise Workforce Diversity 32 Ethical Dilemma Jekyll and Hyde 33 Case Incident 1 â€Å"Lessons for ‘Undercover’ Bosses† 34 Case Incident 2 Era of the Disposable Worker? 35 vii viii CONTENTS 2 2 The Individual

Interpretive Question Genesis 4 1-6 And Adam Knew Eve...

Interpretive Question Genesis 4:1-6-And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bore Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the Lord. And she bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? And why is thy countenance fallen? Hebrews 11:4-By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and by it he being dead yet speaketh. Question- What is the significance and nature of Cain and Abel’s gifts? i.e., what was the basis of their acceptance or rejection? Commentary of David Guzik The story of Cain and Abel is an interesting one. Cain was the elder brother, and he was a farmer. Abel was the younger brother and he was a shepherd. It was at a point in their lives when they both took an offering to the Lord. Consequently, God had respect and regard with Abel’s offering, however, Cain offering God did not have respect for it. What is the key reason why God rejected Cain’s offering? David Guzik, believes that theShow MoreRelatedOrganisational Theory230255 Words   |  922 Pageselectronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without either the prior written permission of the publisher or a licence permitting restricted copying in the United Kingdom issued by the Copyright Licensing Agency Ltd, Saffron House, 6-10 Kirby Street, London EC1N 8TS. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners. The use of any trademark in this text does not vest in the author or publisher any trademark ownership rights in such trademarks, nor does the useRead MoreOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words   |  656 PagesMichael Peter Adas for the American Historical Association. p. cm.—(Critical perspectives on the past) Includes bibliographical references. ISBN 978-1-4399-0269-1 (cloth : alk. paper)—ISBN 978-1-4399-0270-7 (paper : alk. paper)—ISBN 978-1-4399-0271-4 (electronic) 1. History, Modern—20th century. 2. Twentieth century. 3. Social history—20th century. 4. World politics—20th century. I. Adas, Michael, 1943– II. American Historical Association. D421.E77 2010 909.82—dc22 2009052961 The paper used

Education For All In Cambodia Education Essay Free Essays

In nowadays universe matter, the provinces are seeking to vie the power with each other non merely by the military capableness like in the past clip, but they are most likely to vie in the economic development. Meanwhile the economic development of a state is chiefly contributed by many factors such as human resources, capital resources, engineering, and the authorities policyaˆÂ ¦etc. Human resources is the of import standards in the development of a state since engineering and authorities policy come from the human resourcea†Ã‹â€  educated people. We will write a custom essay sample on Education For All In Cambodia Education Essay or any similar topic only for you Order Now Therefore, it means that instruction is really indispensable for the state development. Anyways, for a freshly become developing state such as Cambodia, better instruction is a critical sector for the authorities to accomplish in order to bring forth human resources for develop the state. The organisations such as, UNICEF, UNESCO, and the MDG has a strong relationship with the instruction for all in Cambodia. Before explicating the relation between those organisations and the instruction in Cambodia, we should hold a glimpse on the history of instruction. The traditional instruction in Cambodia was derived from local Wat ( pagoda ) that pupils were taught by bonzes. All pupils were male childs while misss were non allow traveling to Wat School. Many Wat Schools was besides called Pali schools that provided three old ages of simple instruction that pupils could take entryway into the Buddhist lycees and go on to Buddhist University in Phnom Penh. Many topics such as Pali of Buddhist and Khmer philosophy, Kampuchean history, geographics, scientific discipline, civics, , hygiene, mathematics and agribusiness were taught in the school ( instruction in Cambodia ) . Until 1863, when Gallic forced to protectorate Cambodia, owed to the fiscal and managerial grounds made French paid less attending to the reforming of instruction system in Cambodia while the program was made without any actions wer e taken. Under the Gallic associated state, Khmers were compelled to analyze in neighbouring states or in France, but in 1944 there was still merely one Khmer applied scientist in whole state. In add-on to that, because of the revenue enhancement policy made the people preferred their kids to remain at place and gain money to provide for their household populating instead than allowed their kids to travel to school to acquire cognition. On contrary, the station independency period was a aureate epoch of instruction development in Cambodia ; meanwhile, the instruction system was spread widely. King Sihanouk raised the profile of instruction by doing attending compulsory for the immature and actuating parents to direct their older kids to school every bit good. Furthermore, the King besides started a procedure of ‘Cambodianisation ‘ of the educational system that changed the linguistic communication of direction, the construction of classs and school text editions ( Berkvens, 2009 ) . In 1970, Cambodia universities have about 9,000 pupils that the Royal University of Phnom Penh hold the largest figure of studentsa†Ã‹â€  4,570 male and more than 730 female pupils in eight sections such as: scientific discipline and engineering, commercial scientific discipline, jurisprudence and economic sciences, letters and humanistic disciplines, pharmaceutics, medical specialty, teacher preparation, and higher ins tructor preparation ( instruction in Cambodia ) . Because of the spread of instruction, more people graduated, take to new job which is unemployment since the calibrated people are more than the needed occupation ( Berkvens, 2009 ) . Unfortunately, after the coming of the Khmer Rouge government on April 17th, 1975 Pol Pot wholly changed the instruction system in Cambodia that they abandoned the schoolroom, books, and most of the educated people were killed. One Khmer Rouge cell said: â€Å" Under our system, we do n’t necessitate to direct our immature people to school. The farm is our school. The land is our paper. The Big Dipper is our pen. We will compose by plowing † ( Berkvens, 2009 ) . After Pol Pot government there are merely 5000 of 20000 instructors ( instruction in Cambodia ) . After Pol Pot government collapsed, there was another dark age of Cambodia under the Vietnamese business. In the early 1980s ; nevertheless, the instruction system in Cambodia improved somewhat that primary and secondary instruction plans were re-opened, but merely to pupils those who can afford to the school fee while the lesson was taught in veitnamese ( Sheldon ) . After 30 old ages of reforming the state, the Kampuchean authorities has been seeking to give the population higher instruction system as we can see below about the changing in the instruction system, the consequence of reforming, and the farther reforming instruction policy. First, harmonizing to the UNESCO study, the instruction system in Cambodia is divided into 5 stages: pre-primary instruction, primary instruction ( grade 1-6 ) , lower secondary instruction ( grade7-9 ) , upper secondary instruction ( grade 10-12 ) , and higher instruction. Six old ages of primary instruction and three old ages of lower secondary instruction make up the state ‘s basic instruction proviso. After finishing upper secondary instruction, pupils can either enter vocational preparation ( which lasts for one to three old ages depending on the programmes ) or universities ( which offer biennial associate grade programmes, four-year unmarried man ‘s degree programmes, and seven-year medical pr ogrammes ) . The Non-formal Education plan plays an of import function in supplying literacy and life accomplishment programmes, every bit good as short-run vocational preparation to school dropouts and grownups ( Haddad, 2008 ) . Second, the Education Strategic Plan ( ESP ) and the Education Sector Support Program ( ESSP ) 2006-2010 of the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport have been developed to react to the rectangular scheme of the authorities to accomplish the ends of the national program for Education for All ( EFA ) and Kampuchean Millennium Development Goals ( CMDG ) . After pattern the program, there has been an increased entree to instruction services with equity in all instruction establishments and all school degrees. The pupils ‘ registration in primary schools is stable while there has been a singular addition in secondary school degree ( Moeys, 2009 ) . Furthermore, the wide reform in instruction has increased primary school with the registration of rural fem ale pupils, handicapped people, and autochthonal people. In add-on to that, the instructor public presentation has besides increased with many non-formal plans were introduced. Furthermore, the quality of instruction has besides improved by new learning accomplishments, trial system, and the criterion of schools ( moeys ) . Third, even though there is the development in the instruction system compare to the yesteryear, the instruction in Cambodia has non fulfilled the demand to develop the state yet ; hence, the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport did present to strategic program in reforming the instruction in Cambodia which is Education for all National Plan 2003-2015. The National Plan of Education for All spells out comprehensive proficient and fiscal programs concentrating on ( 1 ) gender antiphonal schemes, ( 2 ) early childhood attention and development, ( 3 ) formal basic instruction, and ( 4 ) non-formal instruction and grownup literacy. The program focuses on both quanti ty enlargement and quality/relevance of the programmes ( Lah, 2002 ) . Furthermore, the schemes include scholarship strategies for the rural hapless to increase the transitional rate from primary to take down secondary ; capacity-building of both learning and non-teaching staff through pre-service and in-service preparation, and monitoring of larning results ( Haddad, 2008 ) . Unlike many other developing states in Southeast Asia, Cambodia has been through many epochs and governments that make the state experienced the prosperity and decline in the instruction systema†Ã‹â€  the loss of human resources ( chet, 2006 ) . However, through the period of reforming and developing the state after recovered from the war, societal and political instability, Cambodia now is traveling toward the higher instruction system every bit good as the economic development. On the other manus, the wholly self-reforming for the state that has merely recovered from war as Cambodia is impossible since there is the deficiency of human resources, fiscal support every bit good as scheme. Therefore, in term of developing the state, Cambodia needs the aid from other people. As a consequence, there are besides 3 noteworthy histrions who involved in reforming the instruction system such as: UNESCO, UNICEF, and the MDGs. First of all, UNESCO ( United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization ) was established on 16 November 1945. It stated the aims to advance peace and security through international cooperation on instruction, scientific discipline, and civilization in order to foster cosmopolitan regard for justness, the regulation of jurisprudence, and the human rights along with cardinal freedoms proclaimed in the UN Charter. In term of instruction, UNESCO seeks to â€Å" supply educational chances and offer proficient aids to give the opportunity of having the equal instruction for all people ; furthermore, UNESCO besides help the member more easy to accomplish the ends by supervising the advancement through the submitting of one-year Global Monitoring Report which show the accomplishments of states and the international community towards the six Educations for All ends † ( UNESCO ) . The UNESCO has being played really of import for Cambodia since 1951 when Cambodia joined this organisation. Particularly, in instruction, UNESCO has provided comprehensive coordination and proficient aid to the MoEYS for the constitution of six relevant EFA proficient working groups. UNESCO has besides assisted MoEYS in the preparation and constitution of the national instruction policy and scheme to make out to broader populations at all degrees. And a figure of instruction policies were created such as: the National EFA Action Plan, the National Non-Formal Education Policy 2002, the National Plan of Action for Non-Formal Education 2008 and the Policy on Non-Formal Education Equivalency Programme 2008aˆÂ ¦etc. Furthermore, UNESCO assisted the MoEYS in explicating and circulating the Teacher Development Plan to instructors, instructor associations, and teacher preparation establishments, and recommending for the rights of instructors by supplying proficient aid and the information for learning. More, UNESCO has assisted with the Equivalency Programme Policy prepara tion and CLC enlargement and operation by bring forthing and circulating a Khmer version of CLC direction enchiridion to NFE policymakers and practicians, and besides by back uping Cambodians in assorted regional preparation workshops ( UNESCO, 2010 ) . Second, UNICEF ( United Nation International Children ‘s Emergency Fund ) besides helps in determining the instruction quality in Cambodia. UNICEF was created on December 11, 1946 in order to provide exigency nutrient and health care to kids in states that had affected by World War II. UNICEF besides seeks for the security and development for kids and female parents in developing states. Particularly, UNICEF ‘s plans emphasize developing community-level services to better the kids good being. Therefore, UNICEF was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965 and the Prince of Asturias Award of Concord in 2006. For instruction, UNICEF ‘s plant is to â€Å" accomplish equal chance for every kids around the universe to acquire the instruction, distribute of the Essential Learning Package, set the criterions of instruction system, empower adult females through misss ‘ instruction and gender equality, supply exigencies and post-crisis instruction that measure rapidly adv ance better instruction by offer the self-learning plan, grant critical equipments and supplies for the basic needs to seek instruction, and enhance quality in primary and secondary instruction to assist better the school substructure every bit good as the instruction properity † ( UNICEF ) . Refering on the instruction in Cambodia, UNICEF started to collaborate the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport ( MoEYs ) since the late eightiess with the common aim to give the right of all Kampuchean kids for acquiring quality basic instruction. UNICEF has besides participated in puting national policies, constructing up Ministry capacities, bettering quality of primary instruction system, and easing instruction service to six of Cambodia ‘s 24 states. In add-on to that, UNICEF has accompanied with the MoEYs to lend to the instruction system in Cambodia through many factors such as, increased the outgo for develop the instruction system every bit good as the ministry capablenes s to better the quality of instruction. Furthermore, the UNESCO has besides helped to reenforce MoEYS ability to self-reform the system under SWAp ( the rules of a sector-wide attack ) by increasing assurance of internal staffs. The Ministry has implementing the ESP/ESSP 2006-2010 without external aids and with small proficient support from the givers. In add-on to that, the cooperation has win in addition the entree to primary school with narrow the gender spread that have increased the figure of registration of female pupil more than half in 2002. Furthermore, Education Law was drafted in 2003 by the MOEYs under the influence of the UNSECO. What is more, primary instruction quality has besides up surged both pupils and instructors ‘ quality through decentralized planning, direction and monitoring procedure ( Moeys, 2010 ) . Third, the last organisation that has meaning function in developing Cambodia instruction is UNDP under the Millennium Development Goals ( MDGs ) . The MDGs ‘ end is to cut down universe poorness by half by 2015. Many people can profit from the economic system development and some other people life can be saved from the harmful of the poorness. The MDGs are â€Å" time-bound and targeted end that has a set a limited for the ends to accomplish by covering with the utmost poorness such as: hungriness, income poorness, unequal shelter, disease and exclusion ; furthermore, it was created to promote instruction, gender equality and environmental sustainability base on the rights of every people to have wellness protection, shelter instruction, and security as guaranteed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the UN Millennium Declaration † ( UNDP ) . Furthermore, the MDGs attempt to advance the gender quality of primary and secondary educational system by 2005 and a t all degree by 2015 ( wikipedia ) . MDG has besides put a batch of attempt in developing instruction system in Cambodia as it has set many plans for the reforming instruction in the rural communities such as ; Highland Children ‘s Education Undertaking that established school in rural country by the communities human resources, Bending Bamboo with supplying the instruction for out of school misss and the bilingual linguistic communications category with the local instructor, Child Friendly Secondary Schools is a plan that the town pupils help the rural pupil for their surveies, and Provide proficient aid to the Provincial Office of Education in the three states that are retroflexing the theoretical account of bilingual instruction. Supply proficient advice to the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport ( UNDP policy, 2010 ) . Consequently, UNESCO, UNICEF, and the MDGs have done a batch of occupation in reforming and developing the instruction in Cambodia. As a consequence, Kampuchean new coevals have enjoyed the better instruction than in the yesteryear that most of kids have the opportunity to travel to school and seek for the cognition without the favoritism of the gender in both urban and rural country. And the developed in instruction system has besides contributed to the economic development, human wellbeing, and the better instruction as the ends of the UNESCO, UNICEF, every bit good as the MDGs. Likewise, we can cognize that all these organisations are the bureaus of the United Nations who plays the of import function in the administration of the planetary matter. The UN is the chief histrion in work outing the jobs in international matter such as human-centered, peace maintaining, peace edifice, developmentaˆÂ ¦etc. In term of Cambodia, after the war period the United Nations has sent its bur eau, for illustration: UNTAC, for peace maintaining in Cambodia. Besides, after guaranting the peace in the state the UN started to direct other bureaus such as ; UNESCO, UNICEF, and UNDP to make the development in the state that first precedence is reforming the instruction system. The function of the UN ‘s bureaus in Cambodia has shown the duty in one of the state in the universe as the action of the planetary administration for the development. In add-on to that, the actions are non merely taken in Cambodia as it is besides done in other portion of the universe such as: other states in Asia, Africa where the aid is needed. Therefore, the planetary administration mission is the complex and hard occupation to make since it required covering with all the job in planetary matter, and in Cambodia development is needed the aid from the UN ‘s bureaus such as: UNESCO, UNICEF, and MDGs for constructing the human resource by foremost better the instruction for all. How to cite Education For All In Cambodia Education Essay, Essay examples

Sustainability in the New Zealand Wine Industry-Free-Samples

Question: Discuss about the Sustainability Strategies in Organisations arose from the aim of Social and Environmental Considerations into Economic. Answer: Sustainability is a fundamental idea that is related with the continuity of monetary, social, institutional and natural parts of human culture. It is proposed to be a method for arranging progress and human movement with the goal that society, its individuals and its economies can address their issues and express their most noteworthy potential in the present, while protecting biodiversity and regular biological communities, and arranging and representing the capacity to keep up these standards in a long term. Sustainability influences each level of association, from the nearby neighborhood to the whole planet. Sustainability is a dream for the world in which present and future people are healthy; groups and countries are secure, peaceful and flourishing; there is economic opportunity for all; and the trustworthiness of the life-supporting biosphere is reestablished and managed at a level to make these objectives conceivable. Every one of the four measurements of sustainability must be considered to accomplish this vision. A few examples such as wine industry in New Zealand, Toyota, PG, Hyundai and Amazon have been taken in this essay to understand the role and importance of private companies in sustainability. Sustainability has been observed to be an important factor in the success of wine companies in New Zealand. The New Zealands wine industry has been chosen in order to understand the role and importance of private companies in sustainability. The wine industry in New Zealand has taken several measures to implement sustainability in its operations that has benefitted the entire country. The New Zealand wine industry aims at becoming the worlds first 100 percent sustainable industry. Sustainable Winegrowers New Zealand (SWNZ) was introduced in 1995 as a voluntary initiative to design an environmentally friendly model for wineries and vineyards. This program now includes approximately 95% of vineyard that produces more than 90% of New Zealands wine (Roy, 2015). All the vineyard areas in New Zealand function under the some certified organic program. SWNZ has proper database and a combination of management tools that help in identifying the main production issues and aids the growers to de velop a proper environmental management system (Roy, 2015). The wine producers in New Zealand believe in sustainability and produce wine accordingly. One such example is Rippon Wines that produces organic wine. Rippon follows the principle of biodynamic and renders the wines receptive to the environment. Another example is the sustainable practices of Pernod Ricard. The company uses sustainable methods of irrigation and monitors pests in the vineyards in New Zealand (Zahraie et al., 2016). The company has been successful in maintaining the quality even after reducing the utilization of water and the amount spent on chemicals and other resources. The chemical sprays used in the vineyards were replaced by biological pests that helped in improving the quality of the soil. Plantation of native flora helped the company in making itself environmentally healthier. Yealands, New Zealands largest private winery has also used green technology for producing wine. The company uses grazing sheep rather than tractors to manage the weeds and grass. The comp any has also developed several wetlands to preserve native species. The company uses renewable sources of energy in its production process (Dodds et al., 2013). All these practices have made the wine industry environmentally, socially and economically sustainable. According to Slawinski Bansal (2015), the ideas of sustainability and corporate social responsibility [CSR] have been among the most essential topics to rise at the worldwide level in the most recent decade. Sustainability and CSR are viewed as serious ideas, since both think about ecological, social and financial measurements and both allude to a long- haul point of view of addressing the requirements of the present with obligation and without trading off the capacity of future eras to address own issues. In light of this, private companies need to concentrate not just upon sales, profits and diminished expenses, yet in addition upon the sustainable advancement of the business itself and the environment. PG is an American consumer goods company that produces several personal care, hygienic and cleaning products ("Home", 2017). PG has been chosen as the company has taken several steps in achieving sustainability and with the example of PG, the importance of private companies in achieving sustainability can be understood in a better manner. PG has done a lot in the field of sustainability which the governments of several nations have not been able to do. The CSR activities of PG have helped in the development of society and conservation of nature in several countries. The company aims at providing products that meet the expectations of its customers. The company has emphasized much upon sustainability and has taken steps in reducing the harmful impacts of its production process and final products on the environment to improve the environment and to develop a sustainable business (Wagner Svensson, 2014). The company has come up with several sustainable products such as bio- based deter gents and various others. The company has initiated Childrens Safe Drinking Water Programs to ensure that the children get safe drinking water to consume. The company has entered into an agreement for setting up a biomass plant and wind mill for generating renewable energy. The company has taken active part in empowering women and girls all over the world. The company makes profits but also spends a part of its profits in the development of the society. The company has also laid emphasis upon conservation of water and product packaging. The company has also reduced the usage of plastics. PG has been one of the most sustainable companies of the world (Taib et al., 2015). The company has been working for the society by initiating programs that encourage healthy behaviors and reduce the rate of illness. This has been done with the help of several hygienic products such as hand wash, toothpastes and many others. The company has also been helping the society in case of any natural disasters by providing the necessary products and services in the affected areas. The company has also put efforts in providing safe and decent places for the people to live by sponsoring home builds throughout the world. The company has also worked in association with UNICEF for vaccinating women and children ("Home", 2017). The policies of the company promote sustainability by providing transparency in its operations, refraining from animal testing, ensuring human rights and ensuring the ethical standards in its day- to- day functioning. PG has always worked for the betterment of the employees, customers, shareholders and the society. The company has enhanced diversity within its human resources and employs people from different backgrounds and experiences. The company has also made commendable contribution to the education of children. Therefore, the company has been economically, socially and environmentally sustainable (Valente, 2015). On the other hand, Gao Bansal (2013) stated that an increasing number of organizations worldwide have genuinely endeavored to incorporate sustainability into their business activities. Be that as it may, most private firms have kept the topic of sustainability separate from contemplations of business technique and operations that are frequently focused upon financial benefits, and more research is expected to advance theoretical and practical progress in that administration field. Associations are progressively required to consider benefits to society and the environment from their business activities, not only to satisfy the needs of the buyers, workers and different partners yet additionally to identify opportunities for obtaining competitive advantage. Amazon is a multinational online retail organization established by Jeff Bezos. Amazon was established as an online book shop, however today offers most things one can consider, from earphones, to cleaning supplies, PCs to food products ("Amazon Global: International shipping made easy", 2017). Amazon has been chosen as the company has failed in achieving sustainability while emphasizing more upon financial benefits and with the example of Amazon, the importance of sustainability can be better understood. Amazon is available in almost all the nations in the world and the CSR activities of the company have helped in the upliftment of the society as well as in the preservation of the biodiversity in several countries. Today, Amazon is the biggest online retailer with no single huge contender, apart from Ebay and as of late Alibaba. Not only does Amazon compete with a single retailer but also Amazon contends with every one of them, including Walmart, Macy's and Barnes and Noble. The she er assortment of things that Amazon offers, makes them uncommonly prominent with shoppers. Beyond question, they are a standout amongst the best retailers on the planet. Despite the fact that Amazon has been effective in the retail business, they have insufficiencies in manageability. As far as individuals, Amazon has been blamed for sketchy social duty as to the treatment of its employees (Smith, 2016). Amazon has been broadly condemned in the manner they treat their workers. Amazon has been reprimanded on the working conditions in more than 40 of its offices, and has come to the heart of the matter where the US supreme court has been involved. Amazon believes in great client administration, and it also believes that more joyful workers would give better administration ("Amazon Global: International shipping made easy", 2017). In spite of that, both client benefit representatives and distribution center workers are liable to flawed treatment. Poor treatment of client benefit staff has justifiably made them the objective of guilds. Several employees at Amazon have complained of extended periods of time, crummy pay, and hourly shares of client messages they should react to (Milne Gray, 2013). At the point when this occurred in 2000, Amazon reacted rapidly, as most huge organizations do not care for worker's unions. Unionized laborers frequently pushed for expanded pay, rank based cut backs and sometimes strike, everything conceivably expensive to the organization. This has inspired Amazon to smother worker's organizations, which it has done effectively since the organization was begun 1994. Amazons warehouse staff have likewise had their offer of issues. Warehouse specialists are unique in relation to client benefit agents in that their employment cannot be outsourced. Any issues happening in a warehouse should be managed locally at some point or another. One of the principle issues distribution center specialists have with Amazon is that they are undercompensated when contrasted with others ("Amazon Global: International shipping made easy", 2017). Amazon considers client benefit important. Amazon has driven the online business in client benefit from the earliest starting point. Terrible online client encounters demoralize potential repeat buyers. Amazon ensures each order, offers timely conveyance, alongside convenient discounts or substitutions if necessary. Great client encounters assembles the trust that brings clients back. Amazon trusts that its capacity to set up and keep up long haul associations with clients and to empower rehash visits and buys relies upon the quality of client benefit operations. Amazon has a firm handle on its client benefit quality and its significance to the business overall (Carayannis, Sindakis Walter, 2015). The company has emphasized much upon environmental sustainability as it believes that sustainability is not just good for the environment but it is also good for the customers. Amazon has decided to host solar energy systems at 50 fulfillment network buildings by 2020. Amazon has also set up its windmills that generate huge amount of renewable energy. Amazon has also been one of the largest buyers of renewable energy ("Amazon Global: International shipping made easy", 2017). Dyllick Muff (2016) have found that there has been a shift in recent times towards a greater role for the social element of sustainability as the topic has gained popularity and customers nowadays want to be associated with those companies who contribute to the development of society and the environment. Leadership has been perceived as an imperative factor in advancing the contribution of associations in driving social responsibilities. A few researchers have examined the part played by leaders in the change process, calling attention to the tendency for green practices to occur when leaders develop in their workers a sense of duty regarding becoming a socially responsible organization. To put it plainly, leadership seems to assume a vital part in the corporate reception of sustainability practices. Hyundai is a multinational conglomerate that is involved in heavy industry, finance and insurance, construction, engineering, retail, aerospace, defense, steel and automobiles manufacturing. Hyundai has been chosen as the company has taken several measures for the betterment of the environment and the society that has not only increased the organizational profits but has also helped the company in achieving sustainable development. The leaders and management of the company has played an important role in the sustainable development of the company. The company has efficiently used sustainability in its operations and along with its CSR activities, the company has been able to help the society in several ways. The company believes in adapting the changes according to the trends in the market and working towards enhancing the value for the stakeholders and the customers. Hyundai Motor Company is devoted to conveying goals of the social orders to reality in light of 'boundless awareness of responsibilities, 'regard for humankind' and 'acknowledgment of conceivable outcomes' the foundations of Hyundais administration ("Main", 2017). As far as vision, Hyundai expects to end up plainly as a 'Lifetime accomplice in cars' by delivering not only methods for transportation but rather vehicles of ideal portability that make individuals' lives more advantageous and wonderful. The company aims at probably accomplishing 'zero human loss' through improvement of smart profoundly safe vehicle innovations (Crane Matten, 2016). The Genesis G90 presented in 2015 as the first of the extravagance mark Genesis typifying 'Human- focused Innovation', elements such security and comfort centered advancements for the two drivers and people on foot ("Main", 2017). The RD center of the company remains human-focused, solidly settled on creating Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and other inventive advances that add to the wellbeing and accommodation of clients. In leading social responsibilities, the company is working at making shared esteem past the domain of financial exercises to address social issues through an assortment of projects, including startup bolster programs, propelled at home and abroad, which have added to diminishing joblessness among more youthful eras and also to making the vehicle business of individual nations more focused ("Main", 2017). Additionally, presented are exercises showing Hyundai's mechanical forces and sense of duty regarding its social obligation, for example, a recreational fascination, a wellbeing program and an innovation, all to convey satisfaction and bliss to clients and group individuals (Neubauer Lank, 2016). One such example is a children racetrack, called the 'Cha - Car-Cha-Car Playground', where even sight-debilitated youngsters can encounter driving ("Main", 2017). Yet another example is the Medicinal services Project for Taxi Drivers and wearable apply robotics for strolling help. Abroad ar e the companys social exercises as broad as its worldwide presence, concentrating on wellbeing, innovation, education and social issues. The company bolsters youngsters' tumor research and treatment through the Hyundai Hope on Wheels program. The company gives answers for youth joblessness issues through the Skills for the Future. The company also enables farmers to accomplish financial freedom through its Dream Village Project. In the ecological angle, the company is gaining success in limiting natural effects of cars by enhancing the effectiveness of the power train and creating electric vehicles ("Main", 2017). Specifically, in 2016 the company has built up the world's initially committed vehicle stage that supports three unmistakable power train frameworkselectric, hybrid and plug- in by effectively propelling an IONIQ line-up. Toyota is a Japanese multinational automotive company founded in the year 1937. The company is involved in the manufacturing of automobiles, commercial vehicles, engines and luxury vehicles. Toyota has emphasized upon environment and has considered it as a priority issue that requires management ("TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE", 2017). The example of Toyota has been taken in order to understand the importance of private companies in business sustainability. Toyota has been able to contribute in the development of the society and economy of several nations to an extent that would have been impossible for the government. The company has promoted environmental management all over the world and has given equal importance to customers, employees, suppliers, shareholders and other stakeholders. The company aims at zero environmental impact and wants to achieve an overall positive impact. The company aims at manufacturing vehicles that emit zero carbon dioxide. The company also ai ms at zero carbon dioxide emissions in the entire process of production. The company aims at developing low carbon dioxide strategies and using hydrogen energy. The company also aims at reducing the wastage of water by ensuring optimum utilization of water. The company has also been involved in several environmental conservation programs. The company has been actively planting trees in several regions and has promoted the importance of maintaining harmony between humans and the nature ("TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE", 2017). The company has worked for the improvement of the society by taking initiative for enhancing the traffic safety. The company has been actively learning from the accidents and has incorporated that knowledge for developing safer vehicles. The company believes that customer satisfaction is the ultimate objective of the company, which can be achieved only by offering quality products and services. The company has associated itself with several activities that enrich the lifestyles of the people such as biotechnology, afforestation, robotics and others. Toyota respects human rights and gives equal importance to the rights of the people from every part of the world (Loorbach Wijsman, 2013). The company has also taken several initiatives for ensuring a happy workplace, health and safety of the workforce, human resource development and many others. The company has involved its stakeholders in its stakeholder- oriented management and aims at maintaining strong relationships with the stakeho lders by using open and fair communication ("TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE", 2017). The private companies play a vital role in sustainability and are most of them have emphasized upon sustainable development of their businesses. The private companies have initiated several CSR activities that have not only helped the companies to improve the environment, society and the overall economy of the nations. Above were the few examples of the international organizationsshift in pattern of maintaining the social elements in sustainable business. These huge business organizations can do what the government cannot. These companies are powerful and have good profits and brand reputation which they can use for encouraging and spreading sustainable ways of business in terms of Social, Economic and Environment parameters. Also, it is a buyer, customer and stake holder driven factor that the companies should focus on sustainability development and incorporate it in their policies. To have a secular business environment the private sectors have shifted to the new paradigm and plays a greater role in sustainability development. The private companies have initiated several CSR activities that have helped the companies to improve the environment, society and the overall economy of the nations. References: Amazon.com. (2017). Amazon Global: International shipping made easy... Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/International-Shipping-Direct/b?node=230659011 Bansal, P., DesJardine, M. R. (2014). Business sustainability: It is about time.Strategic Organization,12(1), 70-78. Carayannis, E. G., Sindakis, S., Walter, C. (2015). Business model innovation as lever of organizational sustainability.The Journal of Technology Transfer,40(1), 85-104. Crane, A., Matten, D. (2016).Business ethics: Managing corporate citizenship and sustainability in the age of globalization. Oxford University Press. Dodds, R., Graci, S., Ko, S., Walker, L. (2013). What drives environmental sustainability in the New Zealand wine industry? An examination of driving factors and practices.International Journal of Wine Business Research,25(3), 164-184. Dyllick, T., Muff, K. (2016). Clarifying the meaning of sustainable business: Introducing a typology from business-as-usual to true business sustainability.Organization Environment,29(2), 156-174. Gao, J., Bansal, P. (2013). Instrumental and integrative logics in business sustainability.Journal of Business Ethics,112(2), 241-255. Home. (2017). Us.pg.com. Retrieved 20 August 2017, from https://us.pg.com/ Loorbach, D., Wijsman, K. (2013). Business transition management: exploring a new role for business in sustainability transitions.Journal of cleaner production,45, 20-28. Main. (2017). M2.hyundai.com. Retrieved 20 August 2017, from https://m2.hyundai.com/WW/Main/index.html Milne, M. J., Gray, R. (2013). W (h) ither ecology? The triple bottom line, the global reporting initiative, and corporate sustainability reporting.Journal of business ethics,118(1), 13-29. Neubauer, F., Lank, A. G. (2016).The family business: Its governance for sustainability. Springer. Roy, H. (2015). Social, cultural and economic impacts of wine in New Zealand, edited by Peter J. Howland: Abingdon, Routledge, 2014, xii+ 260 pp., 85.00 (hardback), ISBN 978-0-415-63979-8, 85.00 (e-book), ISBN 978-0-203-08316-1. Slawinski, N., Bansal, P. (2015). Short on time: Intertemporal tensions in business sustainability.Organization Science,26(2), 531-549. Smith, M. (2016). Business sustainability and the triple bottom line: considering the interrelationships of people, profit, and planet. InLearner-Centered Teaching Activities for Environmental and Sustainability Studies(pp. 181-186). Springer International Publishing. Taib, M. Y. M., Udin, Z. M., Ghani, A. H. A. (2015). The collaboration of Green design technology towards business sustainability in Malaysian manufacturing industry.Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences,211, 237-242. TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE. (2017). TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE. Retrieved 20 August 2017, from https://www.toyota-global.com/ Valente, M. (2015). Business sustainability embeddedness as a strategic imperative: A process framework.Business Society,54(1), 126-142. Wagner, B., Svensson, G. (2014). A framework to navigate sustainability in business networks: The transformative business sustainability (TBS) model.European Business Review,26(4), 340-367. Zahraie, B., Everett, A. M., Walton, S., Kirkwood, J. (2016). Environmental entrepreneurs facilitating change toward sustainability: A case study of the wine industry in New Zealand.Small Enterprise Research,23(1), 39-57.

Informative Speech Avoid Stress Essay Example

Informative Speech Avoid Stress Essay Speech Informative Outline Attention getter: Some people say that they do not suffer from stress, because they pass it on to others. Reason to listen(Purpose): Though, everyone knows that stress is bad, but you may want to know that stress is a silent killer because it increases the risk of diseases. Thesis: Effective stress coping strategies are essential to maintaining healthy lifestyles I’m very interested in the topic of stress management because as a college student I’m faced with all different kinds of stress. After reading articles on the topic I would like to inform all of you of a few reasons for stress and then some tips to help you manage your stress and make college life more enjoyable. First, I’ll talk about some of the reasons for stress. Although I’m sure that there are many everyone here probably has their own reasons, I’m going to stick to three main reasons that you can probably relate to. The first one is the amount of schoolwork. College can be so demanding due to such a heavy workload that we’re expected to keep up with. It’s so easy to get overwhelmed. We have projects, tests, papers, exams, midterms, finals, co-ops. We will write a custom essay sample on Informative Speech Avoid Stress specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Informative Speech Avoid Stress specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Informative Speech Avoid Stress specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Stress can easily build without a good strategy of tackling these assignments. A second reason is pressure to do well. Pressure to do well can come from within. That’s the inner drive, that inner motivation pushing you to succeed. Most here desire to do their best and to get good grades. A third reason is change in environment. Now this may affect some of us more than others, depending on if you’re from Rochester or not, but going away to college means leaving behind everything that’s familiar You need to keep everything in balance and you would go about doing that by giving yourself enough time to relax and by not worrying too much.

A Spell For Chameleon essays

A Spell For Chameleon essays A Spell For Chameleon is a very good book. The main characters are Bink, Trent, Chameleon, Iris, Sabrina, and the Good Magician Humfrey. Bink and Sabrina are very close friends that live in the North Village. Humfrey is a magician of information who lives to the south of the Gap Chasm. This story takes place in the kingdom of Xanth. Xanth was the enchanted land where magic ruled-where every citizen had a special spell only he could cast. It was a land of centaurs and dragons and basilisks. The book begins with Bink talking to his girlfriend Sabrina about the situation hes in. The problem that Bink was facing is that he had no magic. The rule was that unless every citizen of Xanth had discovered their magic by age twenty-five, they would be exiled forever. Binks twenty-fifth birthday was barely a month away. When Sabrina suggested that he go to see the Good Magician Humfrey, he decided to go. A few days later, he set off in search of the Magician Humfreys castle. Along the way he stopped to rest and was approached by a male Centaur. He ordered him to leave, but Bink refused. They began to fight, but were separated by the male Centaurs girlfriend, Cherie. As an apology for her boyfriends behavior, she offered to give him a ride. He accepted, and off they went. When they were close to the Gap Chasm, Bink got off and continued the rest of the way on foot. It was getting dark so he approached a farmhouse asking for shelter. They agreed on condition that he sit in for the father in a trial. He agreed. During the trial he didnt have to do anything, and it was over in an hour. Wynne, a girl who was also at the trial, agreed to show Bink across the Gap. While crossing the Gap, they were chased by a dragon. Wynne got away, but Bink fell into a cave. The dragon had him trapped and there was a shadow trying to take over his body. The shadow mad ...

WK 5 Strategic Philanthropy for Organizations Term Paper

WK 5 Strategic Philanthropy for Organizations - Term Paper Example Strategic Philanthropy refers to the practice of organizations in which they channel their charitable activities towards specific course that is expected to benefit their organizational objectives. In this course, philanthropy is a means used by different firms to benefit other organizations while advancing their business interests at the same time. Strategic philanthropy is associated with organizations and not individuals thus executed by the top management of organizations such as the board of directors and several departments. Philanthropy plays an important role in developing and retaining customer loyalty. According to Fioravante (2010), eighty percent of Americans are more loyal to an organization that contribute towards course that they have interest. Moreover, Valor (2007), survey demonstrated that most consumers have greater trust for companies that are associated with certain kind of social activities that give back to community. Increased customer loyalty have indirect benefits such as increased customer satisfaction, increased productivity and quality, employee commitment, profitability and reduced legal and regulatory interventions. For example, GTE greatest concerns are technology and literacy; hence the organization through its foundation distributed $30 million in 1999 (Debbie & Ferrell, 2002). Strategic philanthropy target customers’ concerns and interests in provision of resources that aim at building trust. As stated by Valor (2007), enhancing trust and acceptability among the consumers can be achieved through developing strong consumer loyalty thus gaining competitive advantage. Coca-cola has always linked its operating practices and resources with the stakeholders concerns. For example, the company has channeled not only its resources but also expertise to environmental issues. According to Debbie & Ferrell (2002), the company has provided expertise and financial support to organizations that

Range of materials for an event Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Range of materials for an event - Essay Example (Charles Bal, 2004). This fact maybe used to convince the sponsors about sponsoring the event. The event: The event that is going to be staged is the Youth Athletics Championship organized by the councils of South London Boroughs including Croydon, Sutton and Bromley. The mission of the event is to raise funds for the regeneration of the area of South London. Youth Athletics Championship is a local public event for the secondary schools of the three boroughs of south London. It will be held on the weekends of 14th - 15th and 21st-22nd of May 2001 in the Crystal Palace Athletics Stadium located in zone 4 of London. 30 students from each of the 36 secondary schools would have a chance to take part in the competition. Objectives: The South London area is known to be one of the poorest areas in London that is lacking good sporting facilities as well as any good extra curriculum teams. One of the main objectives of this event is to encourage students to take part in activities, for exampl e, such as sports.

The Benefits of increasing Drinking Age Research Paper

The Benefits of increasing Drinking Age - Research Paper Example In many developed nations such as USA and Australia, the legal age for consuming alcohol is 21, but there are sections of society, which claim that lowering drinking age is the best solution to curb this habit among youngsters and specifically students. However, those who propose lowering drinking age as a feasible solution in this regard does not understand the salient disadvantages associated with allowing drinking at teen-age. Alcohol consumption is no more a habit or just a beverage option among youngsters; it has become a way of life, a part of the culture in today's scenario (Alcohol and Drug Information Service). There is a dire need to restrict their access to alcohol because it is a proven fact that starting to drink early can impose several short-term as well as long-term disadvantages on human health and society. This paper is an attempt to evaluate the benefits of increasing the drinking age from various aspects of an individual’s life as well as the impact on gove rnment and society in a broader spectrum. Health-related benefits of increasing drinking age: Increasing drinking age restricts young students from consuming alcohol at an early age, and as they reach adulthood, the craving for alcohol is likely to die-down or controlled. Various critics of increasing drinking age argue that when people can vote and marry at 18, why cannot they drink according to their choice? The problem is that voting and marriage do not harm a person’s psyche, mental development, and physiological health. However, consuming alcohol is susceptible to infinite life-risking implications from every possible aspect of human health and also considerably deters public welfare. The most significant point in the debate upon lowering or increasing drinking age is that, Is drinking suitable for individual health at all? Then the other point that arises is that will it benefit young people in any way if they are allowed. to drink at the age of 18? The fact which canno t be ignored is that alcohol in itself is extremely injurious to health, and its impact can be devastating. Frances Webb and Ellie Whitney claimed that â€Å"Age does matter. Young people do not benefit their health by drinking; rather, they increase their risk of dying from all causes; young non-drinkers are found to have a lower risk of dying than even light drinkers† (101). There is enough substance in this claim from Webb and Whitney, since if medical science research is anything to abide by, then it is true that drinking is not a healthy habit at all, instead, it becomes the base for various life-threatening ailments. It is a reality that alcohol consumption paves the way for more than 60 fatal diseases in the human body (Freeman). James Garbutt, a psychiatry professor and researcher of Alcohol studies at the University of North Carolina, revealed that â€Å"Alcohol does all kinds of things in the body, and we're not fully aware of all its effects. It's a pretty complic ated little molecule† (Freeman). Diseases like Anemia, Cancer, Cardiovascular problems, Gout, Depression, Nerve damage, Dementia, high-blood pressure, Pancreatitis, and Cirrhosis are all caused by alcohol consumption, and the virus gets triggered more intensively if one starts drinking at an early stage of life (Freeman).  

Environmental Impacts Of Oil And Gas Environmental Sciences Essay

Environmental Impacts Of Oil And Gas Environmental Sciences Essay Oil and gas companies have been conducting exploration projects worldwide for years in an attempt to find and extract the extremely valuable global resource known as petroleum (BERA 2006). Oil and gas exploration encompasses testing subsoil, using sophisticated technology and is not without any environmental damage. A major challenge in exploration of oil and gas is the ecological significance of repeated exposures to very low-level releases of various chemicals, the removal of vegetative cover, impact on fisheries, and biodiversity loss. Most of the developing countries in Africa are desperate for economic success and this is usually the major driving force behind sanctioning any exploration activities in this region. The problem is that most of these countries are inexperienced in the oil industry and therefore they take into consideration very few environmental implications. In lieu of this, it becomes very prominent that ignoring the immediate and long-term impacts of Ghanas oil and gas exploration activities will have a damaging effect on the surrounding biodiversity and ecosystem. In 2007, Ghana confirmed that an estimated 800 million barrels of oil was found in the southern coast of the Gulf of Guinea by Tullow Oil. Tullow Oil is a Uk based company and is involved in oil exploration in Ghana. The people of Ghana were instantly excited and looking forward to reap the benefits of the discovery but unfortunately the potential detrimental issues associated with exploration were overlooked. The economic benefits associated with this discovery had been prioritised over environmental considerations. The good thing is that Ghana does not have to look far to learn lessons of the past. Nigeria being a few miles away from Ghana is a prime source of information to learn from. Potential impacts refer to both the negative and positive effects on the quality and quantity of the biotic and abiotic factors of the physical environment. In this study, the accentuation is on the negative effects of oil exploration activities on the ecosystem of the coast. The boundary limits for a coastal area is between 50 metres below mean sea level and 50 metres above tide level from the shore. It includes coral reefs, intertidal zones, estuaries, coastal aquaculture, and seagrass communities (Millenium Ecosystem Assessment, 2003:54). Considering the associated environmental impacts of oil and gas exploration, it is clear that practicable environmental regulations are critical in controlling and minimizing environmental impacts. The areas for oil and gas exploration in Ghana include the Nzema East Municipal, the Secondi Takoradi Metropolitan, the Ellembelle, the Ahanta West, the Jomoro, the Agona West District Assemblies. The surrounding communities are cape three points, half Assini, Ellembelle, Princes Town, Axim, Discove, Busua, Miamia, Akwidae,Wotera, Sekonde, Eziama, Nkroful and Secondi-Takoradi. These areas will most likely be affected by oil and gas exploration activities. GhanaWestCoastMap Figure : Coastal line of Ghana C:UsersJoseph Addo-YoboDesktopghana-offshore-oil-map.jpg Figure : Ghanas offshore oil fields OBJECTIVES The objectives of this project are: To analyse the environmental impacts from oil and gas exploration on the coastal ecosystem and biodiversity in Ghana. To determine the various levels of water quality parameters such as colour, conductivity, total dissolved solids, potassium content, calcium content, magnesium content, phosphate content, lead and arsenic content. To determine the concentrations of oil/grease in water samples that have been collected and use concentrations as indicators of pollution from oil exploration. To compare levels of oil/grease in water samples with that of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Ghana Environmental Protection Agency ( GEPA). To make recommendations to help manage the associated environmental impacts. Research Questions: What are the environmental impacts of oil and gas exploration on the coastal ecosystem? The thesis begins with the examination and analysis of potential environmental impacts that will probably arise from oil and gas exploration. According to the EP Forum/UNEP Technical Report (1997) the potential impacts may depend upon many other things among which include: The stage of the process, the size and complexity of the project, the nature and sensitivity of the surrounding environment, the effectiveness of planning and migration techniques. Such impacts include atmospheric, aquatic, terrestrial and human impacts. What recommendations will help manage the associated environmental impacts from oil and gas exploration in Ghana? It is not enough to just identify the likely hazards from exploration without recommending measures to cope with or minimize the possible dangers. Recommendations become more essential in view of the fact Ghana is very inexperienced in the industry and legislations are not fully formulated to cope with the environmental hazards that accompany any exploration activity. The thesis gives explicit recommendations based on the findings as lessons from similar studies elsewhere. METHODOLOGY An attempt was made to determine some of the impacts from oil exploration on the Jubilee field area and the environmental coastline by a series of random sampling and by comparing results. An overview of the environmental baseline and ecology is given. This was based on the six oil districts in Ghana and the Jubilee field area. The impacts are categorized into minor, moderate and major. Exploration activities at each phase are presented. Random sampling techniques were carried out to determine whether there was pollution in the water from the exploration activities. A review of the current legislation frameworks in Ghana to cope with these issues. Short term and long term recommendations made to help minimize the impacts. ORGANISATION OF REPORT This report is divided into six chapters. The structure is as follows: Chapter one gives a brief introduction and objectives for conducting this research. The background to the setting and methodology are also included. Chapter two entails the literature review. The location for the oil exploration activities and general approach to oil and gas exploration are described. Chapter three includes what this research comprises of and is discussed in the scope such as the possible impacts on the environment. Chapter four reviews the results of the study presented and are analyzed. The final chapter ends with recommendations, both short term and long term to help minimise the impacts and talks about the current legislation frameworks in place in Ghana to cope with the impacts reviewed in this research. The main conclusions are also presented and further recommendations for further studies made to help address pertinent issues recognized under this study. Presented below is a summary of the research structure: Research Objectives Research Questions Literature Review Methodology Literature Reviews Potential Impacts Observations Results and Analysis Discussion Conclusion Recommendations CHAPTER TWO LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Overview of oil and gas exploration activities on the coastal zone of Ghana Oil and gas exploration involves prospecting surveying and exploration drilling. The prospecting surveying starts with a review of geological maps to identify major sedimentary rocks basins. This may be followed by an aerial photography to identify promising geological formations such as faults and anticlines. A field assessment is done to gather more detailed information. The three methods used for surveying include seismic, magnetic or gravity method. Exploration drilling involves drilling exploration wells to confirm the presence of hydrocarbons. In Ghana, mobile offshore drilling units (MODU) are used. Hydrocarbon exploration in Ghana dates back to 1986 when oil seeps were found in the offshore Tano basin. This eventually led to drilling of exploration wells in the vicinity of Half-Asini (GNPC, 2012). A total of 10 discoveries have been made and about 79 exploration wells drilled in Ghana. None but the Saltpond field, discovered in 1970 and located approximately 100km west of Accra. Currently, Exploration activities are ongoing in Ghanas four sedimentary basins namely the Tano basin, central basin, keta basin and voltaian basin (GNPC, 2012). The most promising discovery so far is the Jubilee field which was discovered in 2007. The Jubilee Unit area covers part of the Deepwater Tano and West Cape three points license areas. Kosmos Ghana HC, an exploration company drilled the Mahogany-1 well in the West Cape Three Points block. Ghanas oil and gas exploration activities do not come without environmental challenges. These challenges may arise from one or more of the following: project footprint, operational discharges, air emissions, waste management and risk of a blow-out during drilling. 2.1.1 Surveying Stage In the first stage of exploring for rock formations bearing hydrocarbons, geological maps are reviewed in desk studies to identify major sedimentary basins (EP Forum/UNEP 1997). Desk study indentifies areas with favourable geological conditions. No potential requirements are needed on ground to do this study. The area is identified based on relief and physical geographical analysis. Based on the results and assumptions from the desk study, if favourable landscape features are revealed, then low hovering aircrafts are used to do aerial survey. The low-flying aircraft over the study are provides overview and peripheral information. A seismic survey is mainly used in hydrocarbon (oil and gas) exploration to investigate the Earths subsurface structure. This method uses the principles of reflective seismology to acquire and interpret seismic data, which allows the estimation of the Earths composition (Morgan, 2003). The seismic method is heavily dependent on differing reflective properties of sound waves to identify hydrocarbon bearing rocks in the earths subterranean zones. An energy source transmits a pulse of acoustic energy into the ground which travels as a wave into the earth (EP Forum/UNEP, 1997). At each point where different geological strata exist, a part of the energy is transmitted down to deeper layers within the earth, while the remainder is reflected back to the surface (EP Forum/UNEP, 1997). Here it is picked up by a series of sensitive receivers called geophones or seismometers in onshore, or hydrophones submerged in water offshore. The signals are transmitted by cables, amplified, filtered, digit alized and recorded for onward interpretation. Figure : Offshore seismic activity 2.1.4 Exploration drilling Drilling of exploration wells are activities that come after seismic data have been interpreted and also after the volume and area of oil and gas resources from potentially productive geological formations been quantified. If oil/gas is discovered, then there will be a need to drill some development wells. Once in position, a series of well sections of reducing size are drilled from the rig. A drill bit, connected to the drill string suspended from the rigs derrick, is rotated in the well. Drill collars are connected to add weight and drilling fluids are distributed through the drill string and injected through the bit. The fluid has a variety of functions that it performs. It imparts hydraulic force that assists the drill bits cutting action, and it cools and lubricates the bit. It eliminates cuttings from the wellbore and protects the well against high formation pressures. When each well section has been drilled, steel casing is run in hole and cemented in place to prevent well failure. When the total reservoir depth is reached the well may be completed and tested by running a production liner and equipment to allow for the flow of hydrocarbons to the surface to establish reservoir properties such as porosity and permeability in a test separator. Any unwanted gas that is produced may be flared. 2.1.5 Appraisal Stage Appraisal is carried out after a successful exploration drilling to determine if the reservoir is economically feasible or viable. It helps in determining the extent and nature of the reservoir by drilling several other wells in the same site. The technical procedures applied to exploratory drilling also applies to appraisal drilling (EP Forum/UNEP, 1997). This requires additional drilling sites that could be reduced by directional drilling hence reducing the ecological footprint and the amount of waste generated. 2.2 Environmental Baseline and Ecology This chapter provides a description of the environmental situation against which the potential impacts of the oil and gas exploration can be assessed and future changes monitored. The chapter presents an overview of the aspects of the environment relating to the surrounding area in which the exploration phase will take place. This includes the Jubilee field unit area, the Ghana marine environment at a wider scale and the four Districts of the Western Region bordering the marine environment. The Jubilee Unit area and its regional setting are shown below. This area is approximately 132 km west-southwest of the city of Takoradi, 60km from the nearest shoreline of Ghana, and 75km from the nearest shoreline of Cote dIvoire. http://subseaworldnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Jubilee-Field.jpg Figure : Location of Jubilee Field Air Quality The principal source of environmental contaminants from the atmosphere across central Africa is biomass due to the burning of firewood and controlled burning in savannah places for farming. It has been estimated that Africa accounts for almost one half of the total biomass burnt worldwide (Andrae, 1993). The result of this biomass combustion is the emission of carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), nitrous oxide (N2O), methane (CH4), non methane hydrocarbons and air particulate matter. Upwelling The term upwelling is used when cold, nutrient-rich, water goes from the ground up to the surface, leading to an in increase in plankton productivity in the surface waters. The considerable upwelling period along the Ghana shore occurs from July through to September/October, while a minimal upwelling happens between December and January/Feburuary. The rise in plankton productivity during the periods of considerable and minimal upwelling attracts pelagic fish species into the upper layers of the water column, thereby increasing the rate of fish capture. Fish Ecology Seasonal upwelling influences the composition and distribution of fish species in the water bodies of Ghana. The transport of cooler, heavier and nutrient-rich deep waters to the warmer, usually more nutrient-depleted surface water during times of upwelling promotes very high levels of primary production in phytoplankton. This therefore leads to an increase in the production of zooplankton and fish. The fish species found in Ghanaian waters can be divided into four main groups, namely: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ small pelagic species à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ large pelagic species (tuna and billfish); à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ demersal (bottom dwelling) species; and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ deep sea species. The most important small pelagic fish species, both commercially and as prey for larger fish found in the coastal and offshore waters of Ghana are: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ round sardinella; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ flat sardinella; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ European anchovy; and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ chub mackerel. Large pelagic seafood stocks off the shore of Ghana consist of seafood and billfish. These varieties are migratory and take up the outer lining position ocean of the whole exotic and sub-tropical Ocean. They are essential varieties in the environment as both should and feed for sharks, other seafood and sea animals as well as offering an essential commercial resource for industrial fisheries. The seafood varieties are skipjack tuna; yellowfin tuna; and bigeye seafood. The billfish varieties happen in much lower figures and comprise swordfish; Ocean blue marlin; and Ocean sailfish. Trawl surveys have proven that demersal seafood are extensive on the navigator shelf along the whole length of the Ghanaian coastline. The demersal varieties that are most essential over the counter (in terms of capture volumes) are cassava croaker, bigeye grunt, red pandora, Angola dentex , Congo dentex and Western Africa goatfish. Over 180 species of fish are believed to take up the deep sea, including 51 different species that are associated with the bottom and a further 106 are listed as bathypelagic (1000 to 4000m). The remaining species are usually regarded to take up depths to 1000 m but may venture into further water during part of their lifecycle. A total of 89 species are likely to be discovered in Ghanaian water bodies within the depth range in the Jubilee field (1,100 and 1,700m). Water Quality Water column samples were taken at two depths, namely sub-surface and at 100m depth. Water alkalinity (pH) was measured on a subsample. Water samples were collected for metal analyses, nutrients, total dissolved solids and suspended solids (EIA, 2009). Water samples were evaluated for a range of determinants including metals and nutrients and the results were found to be: Mercury (Hg). Most stations had Hg concentrations below the detection limit, ie below 0.2 mg/l). Barium (Ba). Ba concentrations were higher in the surface samples and ranged from 5.96ppb to 5.43 ppb for the surface samples and 5.43 ppb to 5 ppb. Lead (Pb). No Pb was detected in any samples. Phosphorous (P). The concentration levels of total phosphorous were higher for samples from the 100m depth than for samples from sub-surface for all the stations. The highest TP concentration recorded for the sub-surface samples was 0.0192 mg/l and the lowest concentration was 0.0145mg/l. Seabirds and Coastal Birds Ghanas seaside swamplands and lagoons form an environmentally essential environment, offering providing, roosting and nesting sites for thousands of migratory and local wildlife. Eight of these seaside wetlands: Keta Lagoon, Songor Lagoon, Sakumo Lagoon, Korle Lagoon, Densu Delta, Muni Lagoon, Elmina Salt Dishes and Esiama Seaside, qualify as globally essential swamplands under the Ramsar requirements of assisting 20,000 waterfowls or 1% of the population of a waterfowl species. Of these only Esiama Seaside falls within the position at most chance of experiencing an oil spill and has an exotic beach believed to back up over 10,000 wildlife. However, there are several other lagoons and swamplands such as Domini Lagoon, Amunsure Lagoon, Ankobra (Ankwao) Estuary, Kpani-Nyila Estuary and the Ehnuli Lagoon which are essential for fowl feeding and reproduction places. They consist of considerable amounts of waterfowls such as typical tern, egret, typical sandpiper, ringed plover and greyish plover. As a whole, the stretch of coastline west of Cape Three Points is regarded as extremely delicate for seaside fowl species. Direct death rate of wildlife in the event of an oil spill is often the most widely recognised danger. While impacts to birds can happen offshore in the marine environment, the more noticeable impacts are often experienced if oil gets to the coastal waters. Oil spills impacting coastal waters near major bird colonies during the reproduction period can be particularly severe since birds are feeding intensively and often dive through the surface oil to feed on fish. Birds are affected by oil pollution in the following three key ways. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Stains of oil on the plumage may destroy the insulating and water repelling properties which may ultimately cause the death of the bird. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Toxic effects after the ingestion of oil during preening, ingestion of oiled prey, inhalation of oil fumes or absorption of oil through skin or eggs. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Indirect effects resulting from destruction of bird habitats or food resources. Coastal bird species and habitats in Ghana are regarded as highly sensitive to potential impacts resulting from an oil spill that reaches the coastline. Marine Mammals Ghanas offshore areas are known to support significant marine mammal populations such as certain protected and sensitive species. Examples being the humpback, fin whales and Atlantic spotted dolphins. While the periodic distribution of these species is not well understood it is likely that during the months of September and October a variety of species of whale and dolphin s pass through these areas. Marine mammals are usually less sensitive to oil spills than seabirds as they will tend to identify the position around a surface oil slick and avoid any breaching or feeding behaviours that may bring them into immediate contact with oil. However, marine mammals are still delicate to results from oil spills, and in particular from the hydrocarbons and chemicals that escape from the oil, particularly in the first few days following a spill. Although it is likely that certain species of marine mammals happen to be in the area offshore Ghana, they are regarded as less sensitive (compared to turtles and birds) to any impacts resulting from an oil spill as they will usually avoid the affected area. CHAPTER THREE METHODOLOGY Magnitude of Impacts This is the degree of change brought about in the environment. An attempt is made to quantify the magnitude of impacts to the natural and social environment. The magnitude of impacts covers all areas of the environment and is discussed as follows: The nature of the change in the environment including what resources or receptors have been affected and how; The spatial extent to which the area has been impacted and what proportion of the population or community has been affected; The temporal extent such as duration, frequency and reversibility of impacts; The probability of impacts occurring as a result of accidental or unplanned events. Table : Magnitude Definitions Impact Magnitude Spatial Scale Temporal scale An assessment of the magnitude of impacts is provided that takes into consideration all dimensions of the impact described above to determine whether an impact is low, medium or high magnitude. Sensitivity of Resources and Receptors The significance of an impact of given magnitude depends on the sensitivity of resources and receptors to that impact. For ecological impacts, sensitivity can be assigned as low, medium or high based on the importance of habitats and species. For habitats, these are based on naturalness, extent, rarity, fragility, diversity and importance as a community resource. Table : Species Value/ Sensitivity Criteria Value / Sensitivity High Criteria Not protected or listed and common / abundant; or not critical to other ecosystem functions. Not protected or listed. A species that is common globally but rare in Ghana; important to ecosystem functions; or under threat or population decline. Specifically protected under Ghanaian legislation and/or international conventions. Listed as rare, threatened or endangered. The magnitudes of impact and the sensitivities are looked at in combination. This is to evaluate whether an impact is, or is not significant and if so its degree of significance defined as either Minor, Moderate or major. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ short-term disturbance directly to the seabed (eg from sediment suspension), with secondary impacts on the benthic and demersal community, during installation of subsea infrastructure; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ permanent habitat and associated species loss or damage from coverage of areas of seabed by moorings, well manifolds, well heads, riser bases, flowlines and umbilicals; and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ permanent changes to the habitat arising from the physical presence of subsea infrastructure (eg sediment disturbance and reef effects from marine organisms growing on subsea infrastructure). Minor Impacts Impacts from flaring on Birds. Many birds chose to migrate at night to take advantage of the more stable weather conditions which benefit migration, and for some species to avoid daytime predators. Artificial lighting, however, may affect nocturnal movement of birds. Previous research has found that migrating birds (especially songbirds, waders and ducks) may circle around offshore lit structures including offshore platforms. The effects are reported to be pronounced during periods of low cloud and fog, when there is poor visibility. Erickson et al. (2001) suggested that lighting was a critical attractant, leading to collision of birds with tall structures, and recent research appears to support the role of lighting. Ongoing research in the Dutch sector of the North Sea for NAM (Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij) suggests that the red end of the spectrum components of conventional platform lighting affect birds, and that the use of green spectra could significantly reduce the effects on the populations of those species most at risk (Bruinzeel 2009). Birds which are drawn to lit platforms often circle around for prolonged periods resulting in fatigue. They sometimes land on the platforms, or collide with the structures, and if there is little food or water for them on the platform, this can result in their death. There are Important Bird Areas (IBAs) along the coastline of Ghana and the Ivory Coast which support migratory bird species known to use the East Atlantic Flyway. Such species occur along the west coast of Africa, including red knot (Calidris canutus) and sanderling (Calidris alba). (Boere and Stroud 2006). Detailed information about African bird migration routes is less well understood and is the subject of ongoing research (Birdlife 2009). Whilst there is a risk of migrating birds encountering the platform, many of the effects described above are based on research undertaken in the North Sea, and similar weather conditions in the location of the Jubil ee field are not expected. Research in the North Sea also found that in more stable conditions when skies were clear and there was little cloud, few birds responded to lights (NAM 2007). It is also likely that some of the bird species which are migrating through this area will do so during the daytime, and hence should be less affected by lighting. The Jubilee joint venture partners have had drill rigs deployed in the area for over 2 years and have not reported unusual bird attraction or congregation. The risk of impacts on birds from flaring is considered to be low and not significant. As part of the routine reporting from the FPSO the presence of significant bird landings during the year and/or records of any bird deaths will be recorded to inform any future mitigation strategies. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Impacts from flaring on Turtles. There is the potential that turtles will be attracted to the platform at night where hatchlings could be subject to increased predation by birds and fish that also are attracted to these structures. The risk of any impacts on turtles and turtle hatchlings from lights is considered to be low and not significant. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The impacts to marine mammals and turtles from vessel collision and marine debris. Collisions have been known to occur worldwide and also in West Africa (Fà ©lix and Van Waerebeek, 2005; Van Waerebeek et al., 2007) and increased marine vessel traffic between the Jubilee field and Takoradi port will increase the risk of collisions. The increased risk of collision is considered to be low however given the relatively low volume of project related traffic and the speed that they move at (typically moving at less than 12 knots). Marine mammals and marine turtles are most sensitive in areas with fast moving vessels which frequently change direction and are more able to avoid the large, relatively slow moving support vessels associated with the project. Disposal of solid waste to sea will not occur from the FPSO, MODUs or support vessels, with the exception of treated kitchen waste and treated sewerage, which will be macerated. Discharges during the previously permitted wel l drilling operations, including drill cuttings discharges, are addressed in Annex B. The risks to marine mammals and marine turtles from vessels collisions and damage from marine debris associated with the project are considered to be small and are assessed as not significant. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Impacts from noise. Activities in the Jubilee field will be located approximately 60 km offshore, away from any sensitive noise receptors. Onshore noise at the port in Takoradi from the project is assessed as not significant as activities will be within an existing busy port. Noise on the FPSO will be controlled for occupational exposure reasons so that workers in open areas will not require to wear hearing protection (the WHO standard is 85 dB without hearing protection). A 85 dB noise source (measured at 10 m from source) will have attenuated to 45 dB at 1,000 m. Fishermen and other marine users not associated with the project will be outside the 1,000 m exclusion zone centred on the turret and therefore at least 500 m from the FPSO. The risk of noise exposure above the 85 dB standard is therefore extremely unlikely. Noise from helicopter flights to and from the Air Force base at Takoradi and the Jubilee field has the potential to cause disturbance. Careful flight p lanning to avoid sensitive areas will avoid significant impacts. This includes a minimum flight height of 2,300 feet (710 m) above the Amansuri Wetland IBA to avoid disturbance to wildlife. 3.2 Impacts from physical structures 3.2.1 Impacts from flaring on Birds. Many birds chose to migrate at night to take advantage of the more stable weather conditions which benefit migration, and for some species to avoid daytime predators. Artificial lighting, however, may affect nocturnal movement of birds. Previous research has found that migrating birds (especially songbirds, waders and ducks) may circle around offshore lit structures including offshore platforms. The effects are reported to be pronounced during periods of low cloud and fog, when there is poor visibility. Erickson et al. (2001) suggested that lighting was a critical attractant, leading to collision of birds with tall structures, and recent research appears to support the role of lighting. Ongoing research in the Dutch sector of the North Sea for NAM (Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij) suggests that the red end of the spectrum components of conventional platform lighting affect birds, and that the use of green spectra could significantly reduce the effects on the populations of those sp ecies most at risk (Bruinzeel 2009). Birds which are drawn to lit platforms often circle around for prolonged periods resulting in fatigue. They sometimes land on the platforms, or collide with the structures, and if there is little food or water for them on the platform, this can result in their death. There are Important Bird Areas (IBAs) along the coastline of Ghana and the Ivory Coast which support migratory bird species known to use the East Atlantic Flyway. Such species occur along the west coast of Africa, including red knot (Calidris canutus) and sanderling (Calidris alba). (Boe

The Correlation Between Music and Math: A Neurobiology Perspective :: Biology Essays Research Papers

The Correlation Between Music and Math: A Neurobiology Perspective I remember the first time I heard the statement  ¡Ã‚ ° Did you know that listening to classical music enhances your mathematical abilities? ¡Ã‚ ± I was both intrigued and excited, intrigued because I did not understand how music and math, two seemingly unrelated subject could possibly affect each other. I was also excited because I began to view classical music as some kind of magical potion that would transform my math skills from decent to extraordinary. When I had the opportunity to write this web paper, I immediately jumped into the topic of music and math. The questions that I wish to answer throughout this paper are; does listening to music really help you do better in math? If so, which part of the brain is controlling the correlation between math and music? In addition, how does music stimulate the brain in a way that enhances mathematical abilities? It turns out that there is much evidence that supports the positive effects of music on one ¡Ã‚ ¯s ability to do math. Most research shows that when children are trained in music at a young age, they tend to improve in their math skills. The surprising thing in this research is not that music as a whole is enhancing math skills. It is certain aspects of music that are affecting mathematics ability in a big way. Studies done mostly in children of young age show that their academic performance increases after a certain period of music education and training. One particular study published in the journal  ¡Ã‚ °Nature ¡Ã‚ ± showed that when groups of first graders were given music instruction that emphasized sequential skill development and musical games involving rhythmn and pitch, after six months, the students scored significantly better in math than students in groups that received traditional music instruction. (1) The result of this study posed another important question. How does this type of music that emphasized sequential skills, rhythmn and pitch manage to improve children's ability to do math? It turned out that there are two distinguished types of reasoning, spatial temporal (ST) reasoning and Language analytical (LA) reasoning. LA reasoning would be involved in solving equations and obtaining a quantitative result. ST reasoning would be is utilized in activities like chess when one needs to think ahead several moves. The effect of music on math sometimes termed the Mozart effect. The Mozart effect gain its name after the discovery that listening to Mozart's compositions, which is very sequential, produces a short-termed enhancement of spatial-temporal reasoning.

Relationship between Politics and Religion in India

Indian politics has an important relationship with Religion. Religion fulfills the role of an ideology in a situation of transition when there is a plethora of new demands and constant adjustments have to be made. Both Islam and Hinduism in the late nineteenth century were trying to accommodate the new demands. This ruptured their earlier accommodations and led to conflict with the necessity of a complex interaction between nationalism and Religion. This is where the clash started. India failed on this front leading to conflicts and division between two competing utopia visions.The clash of egos over basis and minor disagreements made this division inevitable. The importance of religion, in spite of such conflicts can be clarified in the words of Gandhiji who said that those who assert that Religion has nothing to do with Politics, have no understanding of either Politics or Religion. That the Hindu majority were more tolerant and absorbent of others’ viewpoint, is nothing new . The religion itself is distinguished because of its fundamental component of tolerance which separates it from other religion viewpoint.Anslie embree in his book on Utopias in Conflict states that â€Å"Tolerance is not merely an academic question. It is intrinsically linked with the minority. The Islamic community in India wanted neither to be absorbed or tolerated and this seems to have occurred to very few exponents of Hindu tolerance†. Tolerance is also a matter of perception and over the centuries as India met with three different civilizations, the society evaluated. The coming of Islam in the eighth century, to the major power at the center, in the form of nearly 500 years of their mainstay, did not change any fundamental value in the Hindu religion.The coming of the Portugese and the French also did not lead to any changes in our social structure, the reason being the apathy similar to the earlier Muslim period when views were articulated in a religious vocabulary. The coming of the British was different as â€Å"they did not articulate their views and attitudes of their culture in religious terms†. The Hindu intelligential were definitely more receptive to the cultural and religious ideas as contrasted by the ‘keep aloof’ behavior in response to Muslim, French and Portugese ideologies.However the elaboration of the national movement’s ideal by Gandhiji in â€Å"vocabulary of Neo-Hinduism† lay the seeds of religious conflict in India which led to separatism. One of the important omissions in this Neo-Hindu perception was its inability to comprehend the belief structure of Muslims and the differences with Hindus. Salvation in Hinduism is of an individual whereas the Muslims and Christians find their salvation as a part of a large religious community. The politics of the nineteenth century and the strength of nationalism has gone missing today but religion appears to be as strong as ever and a fundamental pillar in our politics.Secularism has been re-defined and pseudo-secularism seems to be the order of the day where massacre of the majority community hardly draws a reaction publicly except in private. The Politics of Religion is as strong as ever and there is only a change of perception. Our politicians never miss an opportunity to exploit the use of religion, be it the Hindu view or the Muslim angle and India politics would continue to use Religion and the Caste system for their survival.

Martin Luthers Translation of the Bible

Martin Luthers Translation of the Bible Martin Luther, the once devoted Catholic, one day came across a bible hidden in one of the apartments of Erfurt University library. Upon reading the book keenly, Luther encountered significant differences between what his Catholic Church taught and what the bible said concerning issues like relying on the church fathers for the remission of sins. Since the church teachings were contrary to the bible teachings, he got concerned and protested the issues, hence becoming the father of Protestantism.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Martin Luthers Translation of the Bible specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As a working criterion of spreading the truth, as it stands in the bible, Luther took the boldest step ever of translating his newly found bible into vernacular languages, German for instance, an issue that angered the Catholic Church as more people left the church to follow Luther’s teachings. The translation plays a very important role to the German history. Initially, the Germans could not tell lies from the truth based on the then teachings, which were presented in foreign languages other than their understandable vernacular language. In addition, they had hungered for reformation for long and thus the translation seemed important as it marked the dawn of that awaited reformation. In fact, Shaff points out that â€Å"The spread of this version, imperfect as it was, proves the hunger and thirst of the German people for the pure word of God, and prepared the way for the Reformation† (Para. 9). In addition, the translation was so important in that it solved the problems of the majority of Germans who, despite their little education, wanted to know the truth but could not get it from the former complicated bible. Sanders observes, â€Å"†¦even tailors and shoemakers, yea, even women and ignorant persons†¦studied it with the greatest avidity as the fountain of all truth† (Para. 2). Further, the translation assisted the common people who, through the easy reading and understanding of the true word of God, could then make informed decisions concerning the truth. In other words, Luther’s work was no more than a force that fuelled the freedom of the Germans. The evident Protestant state churches of Germany, initially used by Luther to teach his cohorts, aroused the courage of teaching to the Germans. Besides, the Lutheran bible is of great significance to the German history.Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Luther’s translation of the bible into German marked the most outstanding revolving point of the Germans’ history. For instance, its high rate of spreading across the Germans stands out as the origin of the advanced German language. Initially, the language featured so many dialects such that the people could neither underst and nor unite with one another. Therefore, Luther, through his works restored this harmony of language and further forming the basis of the contemporary German literature. The translation too fuelled the famous reformation of religion. In fact, it was through the translation that Protestantism emerged, which was otherwise nowhere before. Further, the Lutheran bible contributed significantly towards â€Å"the creation of German nationalism because†¦his sayings and translation became part of the German national heritage† (Gerhard 216). The translation too contributed towards the reformation of the German education system. The reformation came as Luther campaigned for the education of every person, which in turn left virtually all Germans in a position of reading and understanding the bible. Internationally, Luther’s translation significantly fuelled the widening of Protestantism as many other people who supported Luther came up with some other translations like the King James Version, the Bishop’s Bible, and the Douay-Rheims Bible among others. Therefore, as evidenced by the expositions, Luther’s translation of the bible into vernacular German language stands out as both important and significant the Germans history. It marked the dawn of reformation in Germany as people demanded to hear and know the truth, as revealed by the word of God. Further, it induced the courage of teaching by the Germans and more so teaching the true pure word of God in a language that even the illiterate could understand. As a result, the translation is the root of all the protestant churches, not only in Germany, but also in the world at large. Gerhard, Ritter. Luther: His Life and Work. New York: Harper and Row Publishers, 1963.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Martin Luthers Translation of the Bible specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Sanders, Ruth. How Martin Luther’s Translatio n of the Bible Influenced the German  Language, 2010. Web.  https://liturgical.wordpress.com/2010/09/01/how-martin-luthers-translation-of-the-bible-influenced-the-german-language/ Shaff, Phillip. History of the Christian Church. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1910.