Bad Sugar Essay

Unnatural Causes In this video â€Å"Bad Sugar† the Pima and Tohono O’odham Indians of southern Arizona have the highest diabetes rate in the world. This affects more then half the adults in this Indian group, but a century ago diabetes wasn’t even heard of. What has happened to the health of the Pima Indians? During the 20th century the river water was used by white settlers and Pima’s local Indians went into poverty and became dependent on the U. S. government. This resulted in the Indians eating tepary beans, cholla buds and wild life these everyday ood items changed to white flour, lard, processed cheese and canned foods. Needless to say this had a big impact on the Pima Indians. This exclusive documentary shows crucial evidence on how we pour more money into drugs, fad diets, medical technologies, but is it deeper then that? Evidence shows there’re more to bad habits and unlucky genes. If we can find a solution to poverty we can solve many of the problems that individuals deal with on a day-to-day bases. As a future educator I will teach them strategies and help improve their daily exercise. Teaching hem strategies will help them to become independent with their exercise as well as quality nutrition and realize how truly Important It Is, which should lower the diabetic rate. Goals: 1 . Promote healthy lifestyles to prevent risk factors for pre-dlabetes, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke 2. Improve the detection, control and treatment of risk factors and pre-diabetes for the prevention of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke 3. Improve the detection, control and treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular disease to prevent complications and disabilities and reduce the severity and progression of disease

Ricky Watt’s Marketing Plan

1. Evaluate the promotion objectives Rick Wyatt should include in his plan: These following promotion objectives below should include in Rick’s plan: . To increase the number of volunteers to give back to communities . To create an enjoyable working environment to keep the volunteer serving the communities longer . To have extensive diversified trainings so volunteers and members can be aware of what they’re doing . To let the volunteers know they’re respected and are recognized and are safe 2.What promotion methods should he use to achieve those objectives? In order to achieve these objectives, Rick should do the following steps below: . To put ads in the local papers, banner/signs, radio broadcasts, flyers, posters, word of mouth, or walk house to house to advertise the volunteer are always welcome and needed . To have a short 10 minute videorun on the county public safety cable channel that will show the many operations provided by volunteers plus a video to s how that what the Fire Department work and give back to communities .To do fund-raisings to bring capitals so the Fire Department can use these capitals to expand the Department and to award the volunteers . Don't restrict volunteers to be firefighters. Volunteer can do in different levels of medical response/support; rehab roles; and support roles. This method allows the Fire Department to bring on a wider range of people, and they all fill a vital role . Develop and use a formal awards program such as certificates, dinner coupon to let the volunteers know their works are recognized and are respected    .A clear communication keeps firefighters  feeling as though they are important to the organization and the service's mission . To have a department-wide picnic in the summer or holiday dinner to bring volunteer and their families together . To connect and offer introductory class with Red Cross meetings or classes, blood drives, food banks, and basic community service places to find the best candidates . To have gym, coffee rooms, entertainment areas in the Fire Department that can bring all members together, to keep members in shape, to create an enjoyable working environment

Strategic management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Strategic management - Essay Example d coordinate their efforts with other organizations in order to build a foundation to provide the society with a healthy environment in accordance to vision 2030 (Lynch, 2008).This is a clear indication that they have not fully embraced the idea of strategic management. This is contrary to what is happening in the UAE (Lynch, 2008). From studies conducted previously, it was found that there is great use of strategic management in the UAE’s public sector. It was found that approximately 70% of the organizations embraced the idea by 2006 making it to be ahead of the U.S on the application of strategic management in their organizations (Lynch, 2008). In this era of rapid economic development, there is need for Qatar to implement this strategy in their operations as it has been found to be possessing several advantages some of which are outlined below. Strategic management consists of a framework that advocates for improved control and coordination of activities (Lynch, 2008). This is of great help to the organization as it will increase the efficiency of their operations. In addition, the strategy will encourage people to think towards a forward direction thus creating an environment that is positive towards change (Lynch, 2008). This in turn will then make the organization to be flexible in their operations so as to make the necessary adjustments that will help it attain its vision that are in line with vision

The Sleaze Factor during the 1988 Presidential Campaign Term Paper

The Sleaze Factor during the 1988 Presidential Campaign - Term Paper Example In the 1984 presidential elections, the democrats had nominated Walter Mondale to lead them in the presidential race; he however failed to be elected. The democrats therefore devised new ways, which would help them win the next election. The democrats won back the senate after president Reagan was mentioned in involvement in Iran-contra, their hopes raised that they would win presidency (Kathleen). The party leaders recruited Mario Cuomo who chose not to run for the presidency. Gary Hart the Colorado senator had shown some interest in presidency, however questions concerning extramarital affairs arose and, this tarnished his name in the campaign. The media termed him as a reputed adulterer and wife beater. He however did not give up on his campaigns. Joe Biden was also part of the race in 1988 presidential elections but Neil Kinnock accused him of using his speech illegally with only slight alterations. This led him to withdraw from the presidential pursuit. Bush was tied to scandals from the Reagan administration, which included the Iran-contra; the Dukakis camp had attacked them (Lafeber 268). Governor Dukakis was criticized that he was uninformed on matters pertaining to the military. This move devastated his public relations; Bush used this to damage his campaigns and explained that he would not make a good commander-in-chief. Republican Willie Horton attacked Dukakis that he had failed to clean up the pollution on the harbor (Lafeber 269). Rumours also spread in the media that Dukakis wife had burned the American flag to protest against Vietnam War. 1.1 Impacts of the Sleaze Factor and the Role Played By Media The first man nominated by the democrats for the presidential race did not have the qualities to suit him to be in the Whitehouse. Many mocked him that his qualities would only make a Babylonian priest and not a president. American presidential elections have always relied on the use of patriotism the republicans had appealed that Michael Dukakis was not liberal and did not consider patriotism as an important factor. Al gore campaigned as a presidential aspirant as a democratic candidate in 1988, however, he did not succeed. He was highly criticized for attacking fellow politicians, Jackson and Dukakis. These accusations brought about political scandals, which damaged the reputations of the presidential candidates. Each candidate had a nasty thing to say about the others; this however, did no help them to win. It actually confused the voters who had a task in selecting the person who would represent them as their president. George bush however won the elections despite the fact that he was accused of being associated with the Iran-Contra affair. The media played a great role in the in the investigative reporting of dishonesty and scandals facing the presidential candidates. They act as public watchdogs representing the public interest. The 1988 presidential campaigns used media to tarnish each other’s names. The media te nds to focus so much on negative campaigning rather than positivity. Most of the politicians used attack advertisements as their political strategies; they were so prevalent that it was termed as the year of negativity. 1.2 Sleaze as a Form of Campaign

Theories of Abnormal Behavior Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Theories of Abnormal Behavior - Essay Example In simple words, abnormal behavior in the one which leads to the inhumane treatment of others. Abnormal psychology uncovers the causes of abnormal behavior as well as provides the treatment options. From the ancient times, people noticed that some individuals act in the way which is different from the common or accepted in their community setting. At the age of strong spiritual values, the abnormal behavior was considered to be the result of the demonic possession. During the Enlightenment, the shift was made to the scientific view of abnormal behavior as the mental illness. The asylums and hospitals for mentally ill citizens were built in London and Paris (Kring, Davidson, Neale, & Johnson, 2006). However, the mental disorders were not treated and it took many years to develop the assumption that mental illness might have biological and physical causes. In 1800s, the famous psychiatrist Richard von Krafft Ebing proposed that there is the link between syphilis and general paresis (dementia). It was the first significant step towards proving the hypothesis that mental disorders can be the result of physical diseases. ... It was assumed that the mental disorder might also be learnt (maladaptive behavior). Later, the so-called diathesis-stress model was developed with the aim to analyze abnormal behavior as the result of the biological predisposition to illness and environmental triggers (Kring, Davidson, Neale, & Johnson, 2006). Finally, the humanistic and cultural perspectives were taken into consideration. Such factors as homosexuality, teenagers' behavior and current philosophies have shaped the new definition of the abnormal behavior. American community values individualism and personality. For this reason, classification of abnormal behavior has become more vague than it was a hundred years ago. Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology Biological Perspective Biological perspective on abnormal behavior is the medical view. It is based on the assumption that genetics and physical problems cause abnormal behavior and it requires treatment with medication. In particular, antidepressants and even lobotomy are still used to help individuals suffering from abnormal behavior (Oltmanns & Emery, 2006). Biological perspective is based on the writings of Richard von Krafft Ebing. Psychodynamic Perspective Psychodynamic perspective applies Freud's psychoanalysis to understanding abnormal behavior. It is focused on emotions and thought which lead to the abnormal behavior. The goal of this perspective is to investigate the role of unconscious motivators in development as well as treatment of the abnormal behavior. Behavioral Perspective Behavioral Perspective is the traditional theory of abnormal behavior. It was introduced and further studies by Pavlov and Skinner who assumed that abnormal behavior might be the response to

No need to put the topic Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

No need to put the topic - Article Example With the advent of globalization, the power phenomena to compete in resources along with imperialization was the focal point. The United States is a super power because of the fact that it imperialized and was able to control its colonies compared to its European predecessors. (Peter Stearns, â€Å"The 1850s as a Turning Point†) Stearn argues that globalization allowed a system of seamless integration in which trade was cultivated within countries. This is vital to understand as new Empires emerged and literally obtained new identities because of this emphasis of globalization. Stearn also reemphasizes the fact that United States was in the prime position to take advantage of globalization and has made itself a dominating superpower in the 20th century because of its focus to imperialize and control its territories. (Peter Stearns, â€Å"The 1850s as a Turning Point†) An interesting aspect, the â€Å"nation† refers to state, which means the people itself. Prior to this phenomena, the nation referred to the government not the people. In this particular case, there is a shift for individualism rather than the focus on the state itself. In essence, there is no logical connection between citizens and the land they occupy themsevles which leads to an identity of a ‘nation.’ The principle of nationality is crucial here to understand because it molds the structure of Europe at this point. Nationalism would not be appealing if the fact remained that nations realized that it is a self-serving ruling ideology. (Eric Hobsbawm, â€Å"Nation as Novelty†) The tension is the fact that for the first time there is a slight push towards assimilation of different groups- a bond for unity rather than classification of groups. The traditional role to be a conservative and traditionalist is slowly being deteriorated. Hobsbawm’s analysis indicated that this tension can be a destructive as race can be a

The Commitment to Organizations Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Commitment to Organizations - Research Paper Example Most researchers seem to emphasize the need for high employee commitment to the organization in order for organizational success to be secured. It has been also revealed that most organizations demand from their employees to be committed to the organization’s needs without giving a commitment in return. The lack of resources for providing such support seems to be the most common reason for the above phenomenon. Even under these terms, organizations could not justify their decision not to be committed to their employees, especially when they demand by their employees to be committed to the organization’s needs. 2. Commitment to organizations – characteristics and role 2.1 Description of commitment The identification of the role of commitment within modern organizations requires the understanding of the context of commitment, i.e. of its elements and characteristics, as developed in organizations of different sectors. Harper (2008) noted that organizational commitm ent could be described as ‘the commitment to an action that is consistent with the stated goals of the organization’ (Harper 2008, p.7). According to this view, the organizational commitment needs to meet a key criterion, meaning the promotion of the goals of the organization. Supporting organizational initiatives (plans or actions) which are not linked to the organization’s goals, cannot be characterized as a commitment but rather as support to the personal interests and aims of specific members of the organization. Mowday, Porter and Steers (1982) noted that ‘commitment is the relative strength of an individual’s identification with and involvement in a particular organization’ (Mowday, Porter and Steers 1982, cited by Allen and Wilburn, 2002, p.24). From a different point of view, Artley (2008) notes that commitment cannot be considered as equal to loyalty. Of course, those employees who are committed to their organization are also consider ed as being loyal to the particular organization, but not the vice versa. This view is aligned with that of Becker (1960), one of the first researchers who studied organizational commitment. According to Becker (1960), organizational commitment ‘is based on consistent behavior’ (Becker 1960, cited by Artley 2008, p.9), i.e. the behavior of employees that are aligned with organizational goals. Organizational commitment, in the above context, is not developed randomly; rather, employees become committed to the organization after linking their personal interests (such as pension plans or other benefits) with specific organizational activities (Becker 1960, p.32, cited by Artley 2008, p.10). From this point of view, organizational commitment is a mutual exchange, an issue that is discussed further in section 2.3 below. At the same time, Downs and Allyson (2004) note that organizational commitment is not depended on informal communication, as one could possibly expect.

Movies Influence Among the People Research Proposal

Movies Influence Among the People - Research Proposal Example The most popular and influential of all movie industries is obviously, Hollywood. According to Allan and Barbara Pease, American films have been one media that brought about the vast spreading of American culture throughout the world, even in shaping the culture of the younger generation of in some parts of Asia. Hollywood plays a big part in the development of one's culture, as well as in the development of one's life. The media gives, and the audience receives. By studying (Hollywood) movie fanatics, we will know the reason as to why these people love to watch movies a lot; it could be discovered what genre of movies people of a certain culture prefer - as this is related to their daily routine and lifestyle; finding out if movie fanatics lead lives influenced by movies, or if these have affected their lives. Hollywood, too, is quite curious as to the numbers that upcoming box office hits may produce. They have hired three companies, namely, IAG Research, OTX, and the National Research Group to actually study these. These companies conduct different surveys, but only have one question they want answered, "Are movie goers still interested in a new release" (Horn 1). Just like in anything else, movie goers too have their own preferences when it comes to the movies they are fond of watching. Is this connected to their culture and lifestyle That is one question we would like to find out. In 2008, it has been noted that one of the quite surprising box-office results has been the performance of the movie, "The Game Plan." Most movies usually drop some 50% every weekend. However, this feel-good football film stays on, even on its second week of release (Horn 2). Americans are sports lovers by nature, and having baseball, football, and basketball in the list, this movie surely captured the audie nces by its relation to their cultural side, as a sporty nation. It is also to be noted that the movie showed the story of a father and his estranged daughter, which also reflect a part of the American lifestyle today. Movies' influence among the people is very strong that scenes depicting the stars smoking are being asked to be removed from youth-rated movies as this could influence, mostly the young members of society when they see their favorite star having a fondness for it (Guardian News and Media 2008). The lifestyle of the current times is very much faster and more stressful compared to those in the past that watching movies have been such a pacifier against stressful living. The movies create an escape from reality, and into the land of one's imaginary desires. Whatever the theme may be, it is a refuge for the busy minds of today's world and the hustle and bustle that comes with it (Connors). Plans for the Research Since movies are released weekly in the cinemas, plus movie goers are everywhere - as it is quite a trend, having movie watching considered as a recreation for some, it would probably take 4-6 weeks to complete the research. Observing the weekly releases and how the people in general respond to it is one way of gauging what do movie goers/movie fanatics really want, in terms of movies' genre. The

Skunk Hour by Robert Lowell Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Skunk Hour by Robert Lowell - Assignment Example Connotation, on the other hand is defined as being what a particular word implies or is suggested to mean. Two words from â€Å"Skunk Hour† whose connotation brings greater meaning to the poem are â€Å"hermit† and â€Å"eyesores.† Both of these words invoke very strong imagery within the poem which, in turn, is helpful in understanding the piece’s overall meaning. The word â€Å"hermit† implies a person who is alone, a stranger to others, invisible, and perhaps odd looking. The fact that this word is used in conjunction with heiress is interesting as heiresses are not usually seen as hermits. Hermit influences the characterization of the heiress right from the very beginning of the poem. Eyesore is a word which connotes structures that are dilapidated, ugly, and vacant. It adds a lot of intrigue to the poem as the reader wonders why the heiress is buying up places that nobody else would want. Alliteration is a term which means that there are two words that begin with the same consonant in a group of words or a particular line. It can also refer to similar sounding words within the same group as well. There are several examples of alliteration within â€Å"Skunk Hour.† For example, in the fourth stanza, Lowell states â€Å"for fall,/his fishnets filled†¦Ã¢â‚¬ (Lowell). The repetition of the â€Å"f† and the â€Å"f† sound in this group of words would be considered alliteration. Another example of alliteration occurs in the fifth stanza with the group of words â€Å"love-cars. Lights turned down, /they lay together, hull to hull,†(Lowell). Similarly to the previous example, this group repeats the letter â€Å"l† and the â€Å"l† sound in the words â€Å"love†¦lights†¦lay†¦hull†¦hull.† This repetition would be considered alliteration as well. Assonance is defined as the repetition of specific vowels or vowel sounds in a line or group of words. There are a few examples of assonance with the â€Å"Skunk Hour.† One example occurs between the two words of â€Å"off†

Strategic human resource management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Strategic human resource management - Essay Example Besides the cost and the effort involved in developing this system, Natural Knibbles will also need to train its HR managers to operate this system or else they have to be replaced. Thus with the development of both its niche market and new products, Natural Knibbles will have to recruit new people. This hiring will have to be done very carefully in line with the organizational culture but at the same time people with different knowledge and skills pertaining to the new markets and products will have to be hired. Till now Natural Knibbles primarily employed people in the production department but the expansion might make recruitment in senior management positions necessary of people who have expertise in developing and managing products for people with severe allergies. At the same time training has to be deployed to current staff specially regarding the care which has to be employed in carefully manufacturing products for hyper-allergic people. Diversification will also need to new investment issues and the generation of capital. Thus Natural Knibbles will have to figure out ways to generate new capital and cut down on its costs. 2) Describe the steps that Natural Knibbles would need to develop an effective HR plan The first step which Natural Knibbles needs to take to develop an effective HR plan is assessment. The owners of natural Knibbles need to take into account the needs of the company and its people. It should find out about the kind of expertise the company would need if it branches to introduce a new line of products. Then it can evaluate its present employees and figure out and chalk a program for training and development of existing employees. The company should also perform an internal and external analysis to find put about the opportunities and threats and the company's strengths and weaknesses. The company should also make budget allocations to both training and development and for new recruitments following which they can incorporate their pla ns. Workforce planning will also need to take into account the demographic patterns of the workforce and thus assessment of employee turnover and retiring employees will also be taken into account before making projections about growth. All this planning will be done within a limited time frame and a deadline will be set for the achievement of all objectives. The company will also conduct an evaluation of its performance and its employee performance which will generate the right feedback resulting in optimum performance. The generation of capital will include Natural Knibbles evaluating its fixed, variable and overhead costs to reduce cost and increase revenue. Side by side it will have to locate the source of funds. 3) How would the HR plan as described above help Natural Knibbles to implement its changes and achieve its new strategic objectives? Natural Knibbles will prepare an implementation plan to to achieve its strategic objectives. First of all the top management of natural K nibbles will ensure that this plan has the complete approval of all three decision makers and no one has any doubts about the plan. Secondly the plan will be communicated effectively to all employees since the company is highly employee-oriented. Implementing these and putting the plan into action will lead to employee satisfaction and development in the company. The employees

Nursing And Diabetes Essay Example for Free

Nursing And Diabetes Essay Patients with diabetes need to understand what diabetes is. Patients who understand what diabetes is and the complicated process associated with the disease are more likely to comply with the prescribed regimen. Diabetes Mellitus is a syndrome with disordered metabolism and inappropriate hyperglycemia due to either a deficiency of insulin secretion or to a combination of insulin resistance and inadequate insulin secretion to compensate (Davis, 2001). Diabetes is a chronic progressive disease that requires lifestyle changes, especially in the areas of nutrition and physical activity. The overall goal of medical and nutritional therapy is to assist persons with diabetes in making self-directed behavioral changes that will improve their overall health (Franz, 2012). Blood glucose monitoring and goals of blood glucose monitoring Testing blood glucose levels pre-meal and post-meal can help the patient with diabetes make better food choices, based on how their bodies are responding to specific foods. Patients should be taught specific directions for obtaining an adequate blood sample and what to do with the numbers that they receive. Research has found that patients who have had education on the use of their meters and how to interpret the data are more likely to perform self-blood glucose monitoring on a regular basis (Franz, 2012). There are many different glucose monitors available for patients. The patient needs to have a device that is easy for them to use and convenient. A patient’s visual acuity and dexterity skills should be assessed prior to selecting a blood glucose monitoring device. A device is usually selected to meet the patient’s needs in collaboration with a diabetic educator at a health care facility. The patient needs to be reminded to record the blood glucose values on a log sheet with the date and time and any associated signs and symptoms that he/she is experiencing at the time the specimen was obtained. This log should be shared with his/her primary care practitioner. A discussion of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) should include the reasons for doing the test, how it is performed and how the health care practitioner will interpret the data. These laboratory tests are ordered on a routine basis along with other laboratory tests that are being monitored for the patient. A simple method to describe the HbA1c is to tell the patient that the test measures the amount of sugar that attaches to the protein in the red blood cell. The test shows the average blood sugar during the last three months. The higher the blood sugar the higher the HbA1c. The high blood sugar over a long period of time causes damage to the large and small blood vessels therefore increasing the risk of complications from diabetes. Medications and Insulin The patient with diabetes needs to be reminded that the addition of medications to help manage his/her diabetes is not because they are failing at diet management. Many patients with diabetes become depressed or despondent when they have to begin taking oral hyperglycemic medications and/or insulin. The teaching session should include a review of the different types of oral diabetic agents. A review of the different types of insulins and how to mix insulins should also be discussed. Teach the patient about self-administration of insulin or oral agents as prescribed, and the importance of taking medications exactly as prescribed, in the appropriate dose (Davis, 2001). Patients should be provided with a list of signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and actions to take in each situation. Complications from Diabetes The teaching regarding the complications encountered from diabetes should stress the effect of blood glucose control on long-term health (McGovern, 2002). The patient should be taught how to manage their diabetes when he/she has a minor illness, such as a cold, flu or gastrointestinal virus. The patient should also be taught how to watch for diabetic effects on the cardiovascular system, such as cerebrovascular incidents/stroke, coronary artery disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Patients should be taught how to be alert for signs of urinary tract, respiratory tract infections and signs of renal disease. Assessment for signs of diabetic neuropathy should also be included in the teaching plan. Diabetes is the leading cause of death by disease in the United States, it also is a contributing factor in about 50% of myocardial infarctions and about 75% of strokes as well as renal failure and peripheral vascular disease. Diabetes is also the leading cause of new blindness (McGovern, 2002). Patients with diabetes should also receive education on the importance of smoking cessation, cholesterol and lipid management, blood pressure monitoring and management and management of other disease processes. Skin and Foot Care Teach the patient to care for his feet by washing them daily, drying them carefully particularly between the toes, and inspecting for corns, calluses, redness, swelling, bruises, blisters, and breaks in the skin. The patient should be encouraged to report any changes to his/her health care provider as soon as possible. Advise the patient to wear non-constricting shoes and to avoid walking barefoot. The patient may use over-the-counter athlete’s foot remedies to cure foot fungal infections and should be encouraged to call their health care provider if the athlete’s foot doesn’t improve (McGovern, 2002). The patient should be reminded that he/she needs to treat all injuries, cuts and blisters particularly on the legs or feet carefully. Patients should be aware that foot problems are a common problem for patients with diabetes. Informing them of what to look for is an important teaching concern. The signs and symptoms of foot problems to emphasize are: feet that are cold, blue or black in color, feet that are warm and red in color, foot swelling, foot pain when resting or with activity, weak pulses in the feet, not feeling pain although there is a cut or sore on the foot, shiny smooth skin on the feet and lower legs Exercise and Diabetes A moderate weight loss of ten to twenty pounds has been known to improve hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. The target goal for body weight for patients with diabetes is based on a reasonable or healthy body weight. â€Å"Reasonable body weight is the weight an individual and health care professional acknowledge as achievable and maintainable, both short-term and long-term (Franz, 2012, p.8).† More emphasis is now placed on waist circumference, rather than on actual weight. A waist circumference greater than 40 inches in men and greater than 35 inches in women indicates a risk for metabolic disease. This is now part of what is referred to as metabolic syndrome. Reducing abdominal fat improves insulin sensitivity as well as lipid profiles. The benefits from exercise result from regular, long term, and aerobic exercise. Exercise used to increase muscle strength is an important means of preserving and increasing muscular strength and endurance and is useful in helping to prevent falls and increase mobility among the elderly (Franz, 2012). Regular exercise can improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system, improve strength and flexibility, improve lipid levels, improve glycemic control, help decrease weight, and improve quality of life and self-esteem. Exercise increases the cellular glucose uptake by increasing the number of cell receptors. The following points should be considered in educating patients regarding beginning an exercise program. Exercise program must be individualized and built up slowly. Insulin is more rapidly absorbed when injected into a limb that is exercised, therefore can result in hypoglycemia (Ferri, 1999). Patients need to be informed that exercise of a high intensity can also cause blood glucose levels to be higher after exercise than before, even though blood glucose levels are in the normal range before beginning exercise. This hyperglycemia can also extend into the post-exercise state and is mediated by the counter-regulatory hormones (Franz, 2012, p. 62). The exercise program should include a five to ten minute warm-up and cool-down session. The warm-up increases core body temperature and prevents muscle injury and the cool-down session prevents blood pooling in the extremities and facilitates removal of metabolic by-products. Research studies show there are similar cardiorespiratory benefits that occur when activity is done in shorter sessions, (approximately 10 minutes) accumulated throughout the day than in activity sessions of prolonged sessions (greater than 30 minutes) (Franz, 2012). This is an important factor to emphasize with patients who don’t think they have the time and energy for exercise. Diet and Diabetes The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has established nutritional guidelines for patients with diabetes. Their focus is on achieving optimal metabolic outcomes related to glycemia, lipid profiles, and blood pressure levels. Patients with diabetes need to maintain a healthy diet consisting of multiple servings of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, fish, lean meats, and poultry (Franz, 2012). The exchange diet of the ADA includes protein, bread, fruit, milk, and low and intermediate carbohydrate vegetables (Ferri, 1999). The food/meal plan is based on the individual’s appetite, preferred foods, and usual schedule of food intake and activities, and cultural preferences. Determination of caloric needs varies considerably among individuals, and is based on present weight and current level of energy. Required calories are about 40 kcal/kg or 20 kcal/lb per day for adults with normal activity patterns (Davis, 2001). Emphasis should also be placed on maintaining a consistent day-to-day carbohydrate intake at meals and snacks. It is the carbohydrates that have the greatest impact on glycemia. â€Å"A number of factors influence glycemic responses to foods, including the amount of carbohydrate, nature of the monosaccharide components, nature of the starch, cooking and food processing, and other food components (Franz, 2012, p.13).† Maintaining a food diary can help identify areas of weaknesses and how to prepare better menu plans. Recommendations for fiber intake are the same for patients with diabetes as for the general population. It is recommended that they increase the amount of fiber to approximately 50 grams per day in their diet. Insoluble and soluble globular fiber delay glucose absorption and attenuate the postprandial serum glucose peak, they also help to lower the elevated triglyceride levels often present in uncontrolled diabetes (Ferri, 1999). The discussion of diet management should also include a discussion of alcohol intake. Precautions regarding the use of alcohol that apply to the general public also apply to people with diabetes. Abstaining from alcohol should be advised for people with a history of alcohol abuse, during pregnancy, and for people with other medical conditions such as pancreatitis, advanced neuropathy, and elevated triglycerides. The effects of alcohol on blood glucose levels is dependent on the amount of alcohol ingested as well as the relationship to food intake. Because alcohol cannot be used as a source of glucose, hypoglycemia can result when alcohol is ingested without food. The hypoglycemia can persist from eight to twelve hours after the last drink of alcohol. When alcohol is ingested in moderation and with food, blood glucose levels are not affected by the ingestion of moderate amounts of alcohol. If the patient plans to consume alcoholic beverages they are to be included in the meal plan. The patient should be reminded that no food should be omitted because of the possibility of alcohol induced hypoglycemia (Franz, 2012). Coping with Diabetes The patient needs to understand that the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus as with any chronic illness can be unexpected and potentially devastating. Grief is the most common reaction of an individual diagnosed with diabetes. Resolution of the grief is dependent on variables such as education, economics, geography, and religious and cultural factors. The support of family and friends affects the long-term acceptance of the disease progression. Patients need to be aware that depression is common with chronic diseases such as diabetes. The depression should be recognized and treated as soon as possible since depression can affect glycemic control and complicate the management of the diabetes (Buttaro, 2008). The patient needs to understand that diabetes is a lifelong disease process that requires a lifetime commitment and lifestyle changes. The patient should be educated about empowerment – having the resources and knowing how and when to use them. The skills of empowerment that help the patient reflect on life satisfaction in the following areas: physical, mental, spiritual, family related, social, work related, financial, personal. The patient should be encouraged to establish goals which emphasize at least two of these areas in which he/she has control. In the session of coping with diabetes the patient should be assisted to develop better problem solving skills, which are necessary to manage a life-long disease such as diabetes. Coping with diabetes should also include stress management concepts. Stress management concepts should include: a definition of stress, the body’s reaction to stress, the effects of stress on diabetes management, identifying stressors, identifying methods of coping, relaxation exercises and identifying support systems to tap into. Management of the disease process should include eliminating or minimizing other cardiovascular risk factors for example blood pressure control, lipid control, and smoking cessation. Patients with diabetes should also be instructed on what to do when they become sick with a cold, flu, gastrointestinal virus, or other minor illness. They need to be aware that these minor illnesses can affect their diabetes and blood glucose levels (McGovern, 2002). Instruction on what to do when they become ill and the importance of continuing to take their diabetes medications and/or insulin and other general care should be discussed. Some basic guidelines for management during an illness or sick-day include maintain adequate hydration because of the risk of dehydration from decreased fluid intake, polyuria, vomiting, diarrhea, and evaporative losses from fever. Patient should be instructed to drink at least eight ounces of calorie free liquids every hour while they are awake. The beverages should be caffeine-free, since caffeine acts as a diuretic and can actually increase the chances of hypovolemia. If the patient is unable to tolerate fluids by mouth, antiemetic suppositories or intravenous fluids may be required. Vomiting that is persistent and intractable may require emergency room care. The patient should be encouraged to perform blood glucose monitoring more frequently while he/she is ill and to initiate urine ketone monitoring with urine dipsticks, during the illness (Franz, 2012). The patient should be instructed to continue taking his/her insulin and/or oral antidiabetic agents while ill and even when unable to eat. The omission of insulin is a common cause of ketosis and can result in a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. The patient should be given a list of foods that contain fast acting carbohydrates that they can consume when they experience signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. Patients should be encouraged to seek regular ophthalmologic examinations to detect for diabetic retinopathy. Regular dental examinations should also be encouraged to evaluate to potential areas that can become infected and possible oral lesions. Summary The teaching program for the patients with diabetes is designed to be held for six sessions. However, the sessions can be lengthened or shortened to meet the needs of the intended audience. These two to three hour sessions allow the patient to absorb the material that is being taught and to be able to ask questions. The learning needs are focused on managing their glucose levels and preventing complications of diabetes. The patient needs to be educated on the multiple disease processes associated with diabetes and the factors affecting each of these areas. The patient also needs to have the knowledge of how to manage their diabetes when they are ill and warning signs that they are hypo/hyperglycemic. Diabetic patients should be advised to contact their health care provider any time they are unsure what to do or have questions on how to manage their disease. There are many teaching handouts and pamphlets that are available free of charge from the various agencies. These handouts are available on a wide variety of subjects that can be used with the teaching plan. The evaluation criteria for the teaching plan would include an evaluation tool in which the patients could complete anonymously at the end of the program. References Buttaro, T.M., Trybulski, J., Bailey, P.P., Sandberg-Cook, J. (2008). Primary Care: A Collaborative Practice, 3rd. Edition. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby, Inc. NO Davis, A. (2001). Adult Nurse Practitioner: Certification Review. Philadelphia, PA; Mosby, Inc. Ferri, F. (2012). Clinical Advisor: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby, Inc. NO Franz, M. (Ed.) (2001). Diabetes Management Therapies: A Core Curriculum for Diabetes Education. 4th Edition. Chicago, IL: American Association of Diabetes Educators. Franz, M. (2012). American Diabetes Association Guide to Nutrition Therapy for Diabetes, 2nd Edition. Alexandria, VA: American Diabetes Association. Herfindal, E. and Gourley D. (2000). Textbook of Therapeutics: Drug and Disease Management. Seventh Edition. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. NO McGovern, K., Devlin, M., Lange, E., and Mann, N. (Eds.) (2002). Disease Management for Nurse Practitioners. Springhouse, PA: Springhouse Corporation.

Power quality problems

Power quality problems INTRODUCTION   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Power quality problems have become serious and common issues that are being discussed due to its effect on power system networks. Any variation in voltage, current, or frequency which may lead to an equipment failure or malfunctions is potentially a power quality problem. According to IEEE standard 1159-1995, a voltage sag is defined as a decrease to between 0.1 and 0.9 p.u. in root mean square (rms) voltage at the power frequency for durations of 0.5 cycle to 1 min.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A power system fault is a typical cause of voltage sag and have been the vast contribution of power quality problems. Other typical causes of voltage sag includes of starting of large induction motor, transformer energizing and load changes. When a system is faulted, the voltage on the particular phase will drop to certain amount and sometimes drop to zero. When certain voltage drops to zero, particularly it will become an interruption. Interruption cant be tolerated as it gives a very bad impact to the utilities. Thus it is important to ensure that the consumer side will not experience any problems related to the power quality problems. Voltage sags can generally be characterized by sag magnitude, duration and frequency. Voltage sag is a common power quality problem that always occurred in power system network. Voltage sag problems is one of the most serious problems that affecting process industry consumers. Due to the awareness developed from time t o time, consumers and utilities have become concerned with the inconvenience caused by voltage sag.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is important to distinguish between interruptions and voltage sags. Both is a power quality problems but are different in terms of occurrence. Interruptions (zero voltage) are mainly occur when a fault occur at the particular bus. Whilst the feeder in parallel that share the same bus will particularly experienced voltage sag during the period of a fault for faults in any area of the power system network. The travelling and the propagation of the faulted voltages may change it to sagged voltage depending on the transformer connections. Voltage sag does not cause any interruption but in the case of sensitive equipment it tends to resulting in shut down of a certain process. This paper is written to describe the propagation of the faulted voltage to other busbar depending on the transformer connections, system grounding and the effect of line length impedances to the faulted voltages. The purpose of these research is also to extract the features of the travelling and the propagation of sgged voltage. Thus it is hope that the purpose and objectives of this project, an empirical formula can be developed in monitoring the propagation of voltage sag in every level of distribution network on the consumer side. Futhermore, this research is intended to contribute to the utilities in improving the existing power quality monitoring system, and to develop a better understanding on voltage sag propagations.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Several studies shows that from all types of power quality disturbances known, voltage sags have the most significant severity to consumer equipment. In specified that almost 80% of the disoperation in distribution systems cause the failure and interruptions of power system. The behaviour of voltage sag in embedded generation in distribution networks is discussed in. The study of faults that occurring in transmission (EHV), subtransmission (HV) medium-voltage (MV), low-voltage (LV) systems and the voltage sags propagate through out the power system can be seen in and is being concentrated as the frequency of voltage sag occurrences. Focuses on studying the propagation characteristics of sag and harmonics in medium voltage distribution systems by using EMTP simulation, analysing the effects of fault locations on sag levels, nature of sag produced by different types of faults, effects of line length on sag/swell propagation, transformer connection effect s on the nature of sag and swells effects, swell propagation characteristics and the total harmonic distortion in different parts of the systems. Discussed in detailed the sag propagation characteristics in medium voltage busbar. Voltage sag is a serious power quality problem such that it can propagates through transformer to all distribution networks and travel to the consumers voltage level. Voltage sags that are caused by symmetrical three-phase faults propagate without changes through transformers but in the case of unsymmetrical faults, however, the transformer connections have a strong effect. Moreover the propagation of voltage sag through transformer that is caused by transmission fault is dependent on the location of voltage source of the transmission system. METHODOLOGY   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Before any voltage is being sent to consumer it is generated in power station. Not all feeders are being installed monitoring equipments. The monitoring equipments are being installed at strategic places where utilities think that have the worst severity at 33/11kV bus feeders only. Thus the data that are being recorded only at the respective feeder that are being install monitoring equipment i.e. 33/11KV busbar. In this situation, it creates several questions on how to acquire the data at different level of voltage busbar. As installing metering equipment and waveform recorders would lead to huge increased costs, alternative method to monitor the propagation of voltage sag should be establish. This paper can be divided into several phases. The methodology of this project can be simplified by the flowchart in figure 2. The simulation package that will be used is PSS/ADEPT. Simulation Test System   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A single line diagram test system was modeled as in figure 3. Transformers connections in the test system are being modeled as accurate as possible with the transformer connections that are being used by the utilities. G1 is a generator producing 11.5kV. The voltage level at B2 and B3, B4 and B5, B6 and B7, B8 and B9 are 275kV or 132kV, 33kV, 11kV and 0.415kV respectively. The transformers connections are being described in table 1. Transformer and transmission lines parameters for different types of impedances are being described in table II and III respectively. In the vector group of the transformer configurations, capital letter represents the high voltage winding and small letter represents the low voltage winding. 1 and 11 represents the phase shift in between high voltage and low voltage angle where 1 is -300 and 11 is +300.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the test system single line diagram, the system grounding is being implemented in all of the transformer connection. System grounding is referring to the method of how the entire system or network is being grounded. The grounding in electrical distribution system is being at the Y-connected side of the transformers. The resistor that is being used grounding at TX3 and TX4 is called Neutral Earthing Resistor (NER). The basic purpose of the NER is to protect the transformer from from damaging fault currents fault current by limiting the fault current to be equaled to the transformers capacity or the transformers full load current. Fault event will be simulated at B5. The propagated voltage through TX3 will be characterized. Different types of transformer and transmission lines parameters will be used to analyze the vulnebarality of the fault event at the neigbouring busbar B4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS Propagated Fault Event The simulation faulted results that were being presented was single line to ground fault and double line to ground fault using type 1 parameters for transformer and transmission lines. The results of the simulations are being represented by phasor diagram shown in figure 5, 6 and 7. For all figure the bold line represent the primary voltage of TX3 i.e voltage at B5 and for dashed line represents the voltage at the secondary side of TX3 i.e. voltage at B6. Figure 6 depicts the situation of a single line to ground fault is being applied at B5 (33kV). The red phase at B5 experiencing an interruption due to the fault but the other two phases experiencing increase in voltage and phase angle jumps. From due to solid grounding stated that sag that is caused by single phase fault is given by the equation in table IV and is classified as type B and after traveling to Dyn11 transformer transform into type C but in this scenario the situation is different because the presence of NER restore the voltage to a normal voltage level at B6 (11kV). Figure 7 depicts the situation when there line to line fault is simulated at B5. The voltage at B5 during this type of fault follows the explanation in but after propagated to TX3 the red phase blue phase at B6 disappears due to the presence of NER. The voltage during fault may not necessarily drop to zero but the value of the voltage is very minuscule that it can be assumed it reached to zero during fault. Vulnerability of fault event   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The neighbouring bus B4 is of concern when there is a fault. In order to test the vulnerability of the propagation of sagged voltage at the neighbouring busbar B4, the length pf the transmission lines is being increased. The transformer and transmission lines parameters is being changed by the data given in table II and III respectively. In figure 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 are being presented by two graph where bold line is the voltage at B4 without any fault as the length is being increased where as the dashed line is the voltage at B4 during fault event occurs. the fault that is being simulated is single line to ground fault. In shows that the theoretical calculation of the vulnerability of fault event increase to a constant value. But in this research simulation as the length of the transmission lines is being increased when fault is simulated, the voltage at the neighbouring bus is decreasing due to the voltage drop of the cable length it self. Up to a c ertain point as the length of the transmission lines is being increased, the voltage during fault and the voltage when there is no fault is moving towards the same value. CONCLUSIONS   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The transformer connection and configuration as well as transformer and transmission lines have a crucial role where it gave an impact to the propagation of sagged voltage. It can be seen that when a single line to ground fault event occurs, one phase may not necessary drop to zero but will be sagged and two phases will swelled and the transformer connection Dyn11 NER grounding can automatically mitigates the problems. But Dyn11 transformer might not necessarily mitigates any fault because it s shown that line to line fault that propagates through it does not mitigates the problems. Consumers that are connected to 0.415 kV may or may not be affected by the fault event as the transformer connections have mitigated the disturbances since the severity of the sag voltage is presence eventhough NER grounding transformer connections is being used. The vulnerability may overcome the severity of sagged voltage but up to a certain point the voltage drop due to cable length may provides under voltage to the power system network. Through transformer connections, the voltage sag propagation can be predicted with empirical formula through continuous observations. As installing monitoring equipment could dramatically increase cost, alternative approach such as developing empirical formula can overcome this hassle. By having a proper monitoring method, voltage sag propagation that can cause variety of problems can be apprehended. It is hope through this study and investigation, future development in predicting to develop an empirical formula can be establish. REFERENCES M. F. M. Roger C. Dugan, H. W. Beaty, Electrical Power Systems Quality. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1996. IEEE Std. 1159-1995, IEEE Recommended Practise for Monitoring Electric Power Quality, June 1995. IEEE Std 1250-1995, IEEE Guide for Services to Equipment Sensitive to Momentary Voltage Disturbances, Mar 1995. M. H. J. Bollen, Understanding Power Quality Problems, in Voltage Sags and Interruptions: IEEE Press, 1999. E. F. P. R. o. P. 309801-1996, Distribution Power Quality Study. E. L. W. H., Ling G. Tu, H. Wayne Hong, W. Zhong, An Intergrated Application for Voltage Sag Analysis, IEE Transaction On Power System, vol. 13, pp. pp 930-935, 1998. J. E. B. R. Billinton, Distribution System Realiability Indices, IEE Transaction On Power System, vol. 13, pp. pp 930-935, 1989. R. Gnativ and J. V. Milanovi, Voltage sag propagation in systems with embedded generation and induction motors, presented at Power Engineering Society Summer Meeting, 2001. IEEE, 2001. E. Y. Ahmet Serdar Yilmaz, Behaviour of Embedded GEneration during The Voltage Sags in Distribution Networks, Academic Journals, 2009. M. L. Pirjo Heine, Voltage Sag Distributions Caused by Power System Faults, IEE Transaction On Power System, vol. 18, 2003. R. V. A. J. Xu, V. Rajagopalan, Propagation of Sag and Harmonics in Medium Voltage Distribution System, IEEE Power Engineering Society Winter Meeting, vol. Vol 4, pp. pp 2582-2587, Jan. 2000. J. Xu, R. V. Annamraju, and V. Rajagopalan, Propagation characteristics of sag and harmonics in medium voltage distribution systems, presented at Power Engineering Society Winter Meeting, 2000. IEEE, 2000. D. P. K. I. J. Nagrath, Modern Power System Analysis, 2nd Edition ed. New Delhi, India: TATA McGraw-Hill, 1989. M. H. J. Bollen, Characterisation of voltage sags experienced by three-phase adjustable-speed drives, Power Delivery, IEEE Transactions on, vol. 12, pp. 1666, 1997.

Media Representation: Body Images

Media Representation: Body Images Images of female bodies can be seen everywhere. Womens bodies are seen on commercials and billboards selling everything from food to cars. Popular actresses on television and in movies are becoming younger, taller and thinner. We hear many stories in the news about actresses fainting on set from lack of food all the time. Gender and body image is portrayed negatively in many different ways throughout the media in todays society. It is estimated that we are exposed to over 3,000 advertisements every day. This makes advertisements a very powerful educational force in society. It can be seen that advertisements sell more than just products. They sell values, images and concepts, love and sexuality, and popularity and normalcy. They ultimately tell us who we are and what we should strive to be. Men, women, teens, boys, and girls all identify people by how they look, to body size and shape, to clothes, as well as hairstyles. Therefore, the way we view our body and image can have a large impact on the way we feel about ourselves. For the most people, especially with adolescents, body image is strongly influenced by mass media and advertising. When looking into advertising within media representation and self body image one can see how powerful of an outlet advertising can be in our current society (Advertising: Its everywhere, 2010). Advertisers emphasize body image and the importance of physical attractiveness in order to sell products. They hope to persuade society that something needs to be added or fixed, because what we have is either not enough or good enough to meet the high demands that society puts on satisfaction. Womens magazines are full of articles convincing women that if they can just lose those a little more weight, then they can have the perfect marriage, loving children, great sex, and a rewarding career. The standard of beauty that is imposed on women is difficult to achieve and maintain and therefore, the cosmetic and diet product industries are sure to profit and grow off the high beauty standard. It is no surprise that youth is increasingly promoted, along with thinness, as an essential criterion of beauty in todays society. Aging is looked at in the media as an issue that needs to be dealt with and ultimately stopped all together (Gerber, 2010). Adolescents are the main target for most media outlets because they are particularly vulnerable and inexperienced consumers. They are still learning their values and roles and developing their self-concepts. Most adolescents are sensitive to peer pressure and find it difficult to resist (Kilbourne, 1999, p.129). This constant exposure to negative body image advertisements may influence individuals to become self-conscious about their bodies and to obsess over their physical appearance. The beauty industry is an extremely large industry that profits off the negative self-esteem and body image of many women in todays society. Women who are insecure about their bodies are more likely to buy beauty products, new clothes, and diet aids. It is estimated that the diet industry alone is worth anywhere between 40 to 100 billion dollars a year selling temporary weight loss products (Cummings, 2005). On the other hand, research indicates that exposure to images of thin, young, air-brushed female bodies is linked to depression, loss of self-esteem and the development of unhealthy eating habits in women and girls. The American research group Anorexia Nervosa Related Eating Disorders, Inc. says that one out of every four college-aged women uses unhealthy methods of weight control, such as fasting, skipping meals, excessive exercise, laxative abuse, and self-induced vomiting (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, 2010) . The Canadian Womens Health Network warns that weight control measures are now being taken by girls as young as 5 and 6 years old (The Canadian Womens Health Network, 2005). Another study conducted by Marika Tiggemann and Levina Clark in 2006 titled Appearance Culture in Nine- to 12-Year-Old Girls: Media and Peer Influences on Body Dissatisfaction, notes that nearly half of all preadolescent girls wish to be thinner and as a result, they have engaged in a diet or are aware of the concept of dieting (Clark, 2006). In 2003, Teen magazine reported that 35 percent of girls 6 to 12 years old have been on at least one diet, and that fifty to seventy percen t of normal weight girls believe they are overweight (Gibbons, 2003).Overall research indicates that ninety percent of women are dissatisfied with their appearance in some way (The Canadian Womens Health Network, 2005). Media activist Jean Kilbourne concludes that, Women are sold to the diet industry by the magazines we read and the television programs we watch, almost all of which make us feel anxious about our weight (Kilbourne, 1999, p. 47). Many of the media images of female beauty are unattainable a majority of women. The media continues to set unrealistic standards for what body size and appearance is considered normal. If you look through any magazine or turn on the television, you would see collarbones, hipbones, cheekbones and rib cages as the overall trend in Hollywood. Celebrities like Mary-Kate Olsen and Nicole Richie, both of whom have been reported to have eating disorders, can be seen in designer clothing with designer handbags and gorgeous men along with them. This is the model of success for many adolescent girls. Most of these girls look up to and admire these celebrities and are therefore taught at a young age that Barbie is how a woman is supposed to look; tall, blonde, big breasts, and extremely thin. Barbie in reality is so thin that her weight and body proportions are not only unattainable, but also unhealthy (Gerber, 2010).. Researchers have generated a computer model with Barbie-doll proportions and have found that her back would be too weak to support the weight of her upper body, and would be too narrow to contain more than half a liver and a few centimeters of bowel. A real woman built that way would suffer from chronic diarrhea and eventually die from malnutrition. Jill Barad president of Mattel, the manufacturer of Barbie, estimated that ninety nine percent of girls between the ages of 3 to 10 years old own at least one Barbie doll (Greenwald, 1996). Still, the number of real life women and girls who seek a similarly underweight body is epidemic, and they can suffer equally devastating health consequences (Gerber, 2010). Researchers report that womens magazines have more ads and articles promoting weight loss than mens magazines do, and over three-quarters of the covers of womens magazines include at least one message about how to change a womans bodily appearance through either diet, exercise or cosmetic surgery (Gerber, 2010). Television and movies reinforce the importance of a thin body as a measure of a womans worth. Canadian researcher, Gregory Fouts reports that over three-quarters of the female characters in TV situation comedies are underweight, and only one in twenty are above average in size. Heavier actresses tend to receive negative comments from male characters about their bodies and eighty percent of these negative comments are followed by canned audience laughter (Gerber, 2010). Billboards are one of the largest forms of advertisement. Advertisers tend to make these advertisements especially memorable so they dont go unnoticed. Sometimes, they overlook and take it too far. An example of this was a billboard advertising one of NBCs popular television shows, Friends. The billboard glamorized anorexia by picturing the three female stars of the show and beside them the phrase Cute anorexic chicks. The caption was originally meant to be looked at as a joke regarding the accusations towards the three women of having eating disorders and unhealthy exercise habits, which all of them denied. Although the billboard was removed immediately, it illustrated a spectrum of ads promoting harmful body ideals (Smith, 1999). What may really make a difference in this unhealthy trend are organizations that promote fighting back against the standards that the media presents. An organization that has helped do just that is the About-Face Organization. About-Face is a San Francisco based media literacy organization that concentrates on the effect of the mass media on the physical, mental, and emotional health of females. About-Face encourages personal activism against the thin body ideal. Since 1995 About-Face has been providing education and resources on this subject through research that indicates a relation between exposure to the idealized female in the media and the occurrence of eating disorders (About-Face, 1996). Another organization to promote positive body image is Dove. In 2004, Dove launched the very successful Campaign for Real Beauty which features real women, not models, advertising Doves products. The advertisement is composed of six women all with perfect skin, hair, and teeth. The only thing that is looked at as not perfect is their weight. The women within the Dove advertisement are supposed to portray real women instead of extremely thin models in in hopes to offset the unrealistically thin and unhealthy images associated with modeling and advertisements in an effort to widen the stereotype of beauty and boost sales in the process. The slogan real women have curves as well as the campaigns Web site, which features quotes from each of the Campaign for Real Beauty models, does a great job of capturing the overall message of real beauty (Dove, 2010) . The Campaign for Real Beauty has had a huge impact and response throughout the world. The six women in the U.S. ads are featured in national television spots, magazine advertisements, print advertisements and billboards in major urban markets in North America and similar campaign ads are being run throughout the world by Dove as well. The campaign and its influence on body image have been the topic of many newspapers and blogs, receiving mostly praise, but like any other media outlet, some criticism as well. Some question the legitimacy of real beauty messaging through commercial beauty products along with how the ads might affect women who still do not fit in with the portrayal of beauty in the Dove advertisements. Although the women are not touched up, the models in the series are still smaller than the average American woman at size 14. These women can be paid far less, but they can also break the sameness of advertising (Corbett, 2006). All of this attention is what Dove was really striving for in order to get the message across. According to a press release, Dove wants to make women feel more beautiful every day by challenging todays stereotypical view of beauty and inspiring women to take great care of themselves. The use of women of various ages, shapes and sizes is designed to provoke discussion and debate about todays typecast beauty images (Prior, 2004). According to a study conducted by Dove, only two percent of women describe themselves as beautiful. Sixty three percent strongly agree that society expects women to enhance their physical attractiveness. Forty five percent of women feel women who are more beautiful have greater opportunities in life. The study also looked at the degree in which mass media has played in portraying and communicating an unrealistic view of beauty. More than two thirds of women strongly agree that the media and advertising set an unrealistic standard of beauty that most women coul d not ever achieve. Women feel they are surrounded images unrealistic beauty. The majority wish female beauty was portrayed in the media as being made up of more than just physical attractiveness. Seventy five percent went on to say that they wish the media did a better job of portraying women of diverse physical attractiveness, including age, shape, and size (Dove, 2010). Other advertisers have also been departing from the idealistic body type. In the Just Do It campaign, Nike features muscular, disembodied thighs and butts, labeled Thunder Thighs and Big Butt. These advertisements are very important to understanding the media representation and body image of the direction that society will be heading. It is important to take action with the media and society like represented with the Dove campaign, in order to try and change the trend and get women to love being who they are, no matter what their size, and love the uniqueness of their own body (Corbett, 2006). Another media outlet that should not go unnoticed is the digital media. In todays society this plays a very important role. A great example of this is shown through Doves Evolution video. The video starts off with what appears to be a normal woman and is magically transformed into a beautiful supermodel and placed on a billboard. By using a computer, the womans face is geometrically changed and made to look perfectly proportioned. The video shows people that absolutely perfect faces and bodies are not only rare but nonexistent in many cases (Postrel, 2007). In Madrid, one of the many popular fashion capitals, thin models were banned from the runway in 2006. Spain has recently undergone a project with the aim to standardize clothing sizes through using a process in which a laser beam is used to measure real life womens bodies in order to find the most true to life measurement. This project is hoped to help fight the perception that thin equals beautiful. Milan has also jumped on the idea and also banned ultra thin models from fashion week in 2006 in hopes that models will start to become more healthy sizes (Woolls, 2008). Twenty years ago, the average model weighed eight percent less than the average woman. Todays models weigh twenty three percent less. Advertisers are convinced that thin models sell products and that thin is in. When the Australian magazine New Woman recently included a picture of a heavy-set model on its cover, there was an instant backlash of grateful readers praising the change. The advertisers were less then pleased however. They complained and the magazine soon returned to featuring bone-thin models. Advertising Age International concluded that the incident made clear the influence wielded by advertisers who remain convinced that only thin models spur the sales of beauty products (Gerber, 2010). Mainstream media representations also plays a role in reinforcing ideas about what it means to be a real man in our society. Most media sources portray male characters as rewarding for self-control and controlling of others, aggressive and violent, financially independent, and physically desirability. Although distorted body images have been known to affect women and girls, there is a growing awareness regarding the pressure for men and boys to appear more muscular. Many males are becoming more insecure about their physical appearance due to advertising and other media images that raise the standard and idealize well-built men. Advertising images have been accused of setting unrealistic ideals for males, and men and boys are beginning to risk their health to achieve the well-built media standard (Eating disorders: Body image and advertising, 2008). Another issue is the representation of ethnically diverse women in the media. A 2008 study conducted by Juanita Covert and Travis Dixon titled A Changing View: Representation and Effects of the Portrayal of Women of Color in Mainstream Womens Magazines found that although there was an increase in the representation of women of color, overall white women were overrepresented in mainstream womens magazines from 1999 to 2004. An experiment was designed to view the effects of counter stereotypical portrayals on readers. The research showed that exposure to articles featuring counter stereotypical depictions of women of color tended to evaluate the occupational expectations of women of color among white readers but not people of color (Covert, 2008). In article on African American women and beauty ideals, it is stated that Black women are less vulnerable than white women to reacting negatively is they dont match the ideals pervading prime-time television shows and magazines, according to studies (Smith, 2004). African American women pay little attention to thin images of white women and have better body images than white women, though heavier and unhealthier. African American women have disregarded the idea of thin, pretty white woman as unattainable for themselves and as unimportant to others in the black community (Smith, 2004). It is also found in research that black women were less likely to exhibit signs of bulimia (Smith, 2004). When you think of sexy black women in the media, many would instantly think of Beyonce, Rihanna, or Tyra Banks. However, some would argue that though they are ethnically black, they are whiteified. Their hair has been dyed blonde, straightened hair, and even skin lightened. This is sending a negative message to the darker skinned African American women that they are not beautiful (How the media destroys black beauty, 2010). Some other examples of media sources lighting the skin of African American celebrities by using Photoshop and special lighting techniques is recently shown in Gabourey Sidibes Elle 25th Anniversary Cover. Though the magazine denies the accusations, this is not the first time this has been brought to everyones attention (Everett, 2010). Beyonce Knowles has also been represented several skin shades darker in her LOreal Paris magazine advertisements. Even after the company made a statement claiming this was untrue, many find this hard to believe (Guardian News Media , 2008). Other celebrities to undergo the supposed Photoshop skin lightening include OJ Simpson, Mariah Carey, and even President Obama. The message that media gives about thinness, dieting and beauty tells ordinary women that they are always in need of adjustment. The female body is looked at as an object to be perfected (Gerber, 2010). Jean Kilbourne argues that the overwhelming presence of media images of painfully thin women means that real womens bodies have become invisible in the mass media. This statement implies that the constant exposure of images and texts suggests the idea that the thinner a woman is, the better she is. This has a strong influence on women which then contributes to eating disorders and low self esteem issues. Kilbourne concludes that many women internalize these stereotypes and therefore judge themselves by the beauty industrys standards (Kilbourne, 2010). Some may blame society for accepting negative representation of media. However, it is going to take the media to make a change through better marketing choices and a better view of body image and self-esteem. We are bombarded with images of perfect women and men everyday, whether it is on our favorite television shows, movies, magazines and music. The majority of the women are tall, thin and beautiful and the men are muscular, tanned and seductive. People who do not fall within this media induced norm are left without models to look up to. Instead, they give in to the cosmetic and diet product industry and try to alter their bodies to what they have been told is beautiful. Adolescent girls and boys are constantly striving to acquire an unattainable physique. Across the nation, millions of teens struggle with eating disorders and borderline conditions. With the help of Organizations like the About-Face Organization and programs like the Doves Campaign for Real Beauty, body image can s oon be embraced by men and women of all ages, sizes, and skin color. Work Cited Advertising: Its Everywhere. Media Awareness Network. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Body Image and the Media. The Canadian Womens Health Network. 2005. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Clark, L. and Tiggemann, M. (2006), Appearance Culture in Nine- to 12-Year-Old Girls: Media and Peer Influences on Body Dissatisfaction. Social Development, 15: 628-643. Cummings, By Laura. BBC NEWS The Diet Business: Banking on Failure. BBC News Home. 5 Feb. 2003. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Campaign for Real Beauty. Dove. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Corbett, Rachel. Doves Larger Models Spur Sales and Attention. Womens ENews. 29 Jan. 2006. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Covert, J. J., and T. L. Dixon. A Changing View: Representation and Effects of the Portrayal of Women of Color in Mainstream Womens Magazines. Communication Research 35.2 (2008): 232-56. Eating Disorders: Body Image and Advertising HealthyPlace. HealthyPlace.com. 11 Dec. 2008. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Everett, Cristina. Elle Magazine Accused of Digitally Lightening Gabourey Sidibes Skin on October Cover. NY Daily News. 17 Sept. 2010. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Gerber, Robin. Beauty and Body Image in the Media. Media Awareness Network. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Guadian News Media. LOreal Denies whitening Beyonce Knowles Skin in Cosmetics Ad. Buzzle Web Portal. 8 Aug. 2008. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Gibbons, Sheila. Teen Magazines Send Girls All the Wrong Messages. Womens ENews. 29 Oct. 2003. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Greenwald, John, Valerie Marchant, and Jacqueline Savaiano. BARBIE BOOTS UP TIME. TIME.com. 11 Nov. 1996. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . How The Media Destroys Black Beauty | Socyberty. Socyberty: Society on the Web. 24 Oct. 2010. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Kilbourne, Jean. Beautyand the Beast of Advertising. Center for Media Literacy. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Kilbourne, Jean. Cant Buy My Love: How Advertising Changes the Way We Think and Feel. New York: Simon Schuster, 1999. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Postrel, Virginia. The Truth about Beauty. The Atlantic (2007): 1-3. Prior, Molly. Dove Ad Campaign Aims to Redefine Beauty Womens Wear Daily, October 8, 2004. Smith, Dakota. Black Women Ignore Many of Medias Beauty Ideals. Womens ENews. 10 June 2004. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Smith, Katie. Effect of the Media on Eating Disorders. Effect of the Media on Eating Disorders. 23 Nov. 1999. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. . Woolls, Daniel. Spain to Make Clothes for Real Women. USATODAY.com. 7 Feb. 2008. Web. 10 Nov. 2010. .

Fantasy In Cairo Essay example -- essays research papers

Fantasy in Cairo   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the film Purple Rose of Cairo, by Woody Allen, fantasy and reality are two very poignant themes. However, through discussion, the class brought up points regarding fantasy being Tom Baxter, and reality being Gill Shepherd; my perspective was different. Tom Baxter portrays the main theme of reality while Gill Shepherd demonstrates the role of fantasy. Also, the characteristic strength demonstrated by Cecilia as well as by Tom Baxter is pertinent to the story line. The remainder of this essay will entail why I have seen this film from a twisted view by using examples from the film.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the beginning of the film Cecilia is lonely and weak due to the fact that her husband shamelessly gambles away their money as well as hits her. Cecilia hopelessly goes to the movies to find solace and peace away from her miserable world. While at the movie, Purple Rose of Cairo, she is enchanted by the thought of running away with the lead character. Tom Baxter, one of the main characters in the film, catches Cecilia looking at him with adoration and strongly decides to leave the film and run off with the lonely Cecilia. Tom is a wholesome, naà ¯ve, and sensitive man, who is everything that Cecilia's current husband, is not. Although Tom jumping out of the screen and into Cecilia's arms may seem more like fantasy than reality, it is Tom himself who represents reality to Cecilia. By Cecilia being lonely and abused by...

Privacy in work :: essays research papers

The Privacy of the individual is the most important right. It supports human dignity and other values such as freedom of association and freedom of speech. It has become one of the most important human rights of the modern age. Privacy is recognized around the world in various regions and cultures. Almost every country in the world includes a right of privacy in its constitution. Without privacy, the democratic system that we know would not exist. According to the Australian Privacy Charter â€Å"A free and democratic society requires respect for the autonomy of individuals, and limits on the power of both state and private organizations to intrude on that autonomy. The government we have today maintains and organizes our society. The elements of control are often viewed as violations of privacy. These elements are meant to protect us from irresponsible people and from hurting themselves. The laws that are in place still give privacy without invading personal lives or maybe they do invade in our lives? For some people violating into their personal life doesn’t mean anything but for other people it’s a huge problem. â€Å"Privacy is only violated when people feel they are being violated† â€Å"If people feel comfortable in their environment then privacy is not a worry† Privacy in the workplace is also becoming a problem. In American, more and more employers are monitoring their workers at job. In fact, according to the American Management Association, nearly tree quarters of U.S. companies now electronically monitor employees in several ways. Your employer can monitor your Internet usage, what sites you visit, how often, and for how long, as with e-mail. Telephone can also be a threat. If you are on the phone at work, your boss can listen in; your voice mail is also subject to monitoring. Employers own the phone system, so they can generally monitor it as they see well. Your boss can keep a record of the numbers you dial and how long you talk, and can listen to your voice mail messages, although there are some laws preventing companies from listening to employees personal calls. Furthermore Privacy can be divided into the following separate but related concepts: First of all we have the information Privacy or Data protection, which involves the establishment of rules governing the collection and handling of personal data such as credit information, and medical and government records. The second one is the Bodily privacy, which concerns the protection of people's physical selves against invasive procedures such as genetic tests, drug testing and cavity searches.

Resolving Problem With Manager In The Workplace :: Organizational Management

Identification and definition of the problem. My workplace environment at one time was a pleasant place to be. All the employees got along and worked together very well. We were a team and liked to help each other out when one was in need. It was like clock work. We would go to work wanting to be there to do our jobs because we all knew we would have fun throughout the day while we were working. Then a new manager joined the team. It was not planned, we knew our store needed some help but the employees did not know for definite when we would be getting a new supervisor. The first day was like any usual first day. Meeting the employees, learning the names and a little bit about each person. After observing my new supervisor for a couple of hours I felt as if he was in a hurry to get the first day work out of the way and leave. He did not seem the least bit interested in the people he was going to be working with for over eight hours a day. I blew off my thoughts and felt it was too early to judge the situation. Well I was wrong to blow off my feelings, because I was right to think something was not quite right about this man. During his training he did not want any one below his position to help him out. If he was having troubles with the computer he had to go to the General Manager or another supervisor even though the employees probably know the computers just as well as managers because we use them all day long. He would look for thirty minutes for something in dry storage before he ever asked an employee. I personally thought that was unusual, not asking for help unless it was management. It seems like to me that it would have made him feel less superior if he had to ask one of his employees for help. At that point I knew working with this particular supervisor would not be pleasant. As time went on the situations got increasingly worse. He would scream at us employees for the most ridiculous things. Showing up to work without my name tag would be means for him sending me home.

Youth Gangs: Problem and Response

Irving Spergel begins his research by noting that the phenomenon of youth gangs is not exclusively a product of American civilization or the modern urban condition, pointing out that gangs date as far back to the 17th century England and span as far as Asia and South America, have evolved from places as diverse as the secret societies from Hong Kong and the prison conditions of New Zealand. Spergel also observes that attempts to research youth gangs have yielded varying results and drawn wildly differing conclusions as to their criminal severity, the circumstances which spawn them, and the correlation they have with youth delinquency. Researchers also choose to define gangs and/or categorize them in relation to non-gang-related youth delinquency in rather varied ways, which only complicates this. I find this kind of social and historical context very fascinating. It certainly lends the concept of youth gang a certain legitimacy that is not afforded in mainstream representations of them. Too often, gangs are simply viewed as products of depressed areas of urban America. They are considered a symptom of social failure rather than as a natural product of civilization, simply because it makes for more sensational content on television. But as Spergel's research summary shows, youth gangs are a means for the youth to address their own community's shortcomings, most notably a lack of confidence in one's family or an inability to completely connect with peers at a school or work environment. In addition, Spergel suggests that law enforcement, social welfare agencies and other ways a community addresses youth gangs are problematized by how the demographic complexities of gang formation are distorted and/or exaggerated by how mainstream news media and governmental organizations choose to profile them. One telling example is how such distortions lead even the Department of Justice to fund research that relies on flawed methodology or rely on grossly inflated figures for the purposes of rhetoric. Despite these acts, studies have indicated that the ‘gang problem' cannot be singularly reduced to one demographic and that the various activities they engage in are not necessarily limited to criminal behavior. Spergel does attempt to address this by reviewing such literature, and through this has suggested that gang behavior differs from other forms of youth delinquency in that the former must lie completely within the domain of group oriented conduct — protecting the ‘turf', maintaining an ideological code, etc. He also decidedly defines delinquent youth groups against gangs by noting that the latter must have a relatively stable social order/grouping whereas the former tends to be more fluid in structure, and leadership is not a fixed constant. Furthermore, gang violence or criminally-oriented gang behavior is not as dramatically problematic as popular accounts tend to suggest. While some cities are certainly known for their alarming figures, the general average of criminially-oriented gang behavior is actually quite low. Spergel takes research data to task by suggesting that the veracity of any such statistics is immediately made suspect by problematic ‘measurements' used to derive such data. They can be distorted depending on how one ‘counts' gang population and criminally-oriented gang behavior. Spergel's research is quite too long to really address all his points in a brief manner, but let it suffice to say that he presents a rather thought provoking look at research and its perceptions of gangs and gang behavior, most notably because it suggests the heterogeneity of the phenomenon and the ease at which it can be distorted.

Macbeth- the Destruction of Power

Within William Shakespeare’s play, ‘Macbeth’, the destructive nature of power is immensely explored. The nature of power is obliquely and inevitably expressed through Macbeth’s ambitious drive for supremacy, the unknown and distraught notion of fate and free will, as well as a personal reaction towards the concept of power. Although, the majority of the play is based on the destructive nature of power, the moral nature of power is also portrayed, in spite of the evil. Macbeth was naturally an ambitious man, who constantly desired more.However, he was greatly influenced by his wife Lady Macbeth, for in the beginning Macbeth’s nature was â€Å"too full o[f] the milk of human kindness†. Lady Macbeth’s provocation encouraged the evil residing in Macbeth and his ambition only increased â€Å"I have no spur to prick the sides of my intent, but only vaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itself and falls on the other. † The weird sisters we re aware of his overpowering determination and were able to manipulate him into believing he had the potential to gain â€Å"absolute power†.Via these strong influences and his unfathomable ambition, Macbeth went to great extents to retrieve ultimate power, essentially transforming into a tyrant within the process. Macbeth’s level of free will is questionable, for it seems that despite the triggers of his ferocious actions, he was an exceptionally hubris man. The witches can be depicted as advocators for fate, rather than fate itself and with the support of manipulation, they were able to convert Macbeth into an ignorant autocrat. â€Å"Fair is foul and foul is Fair. Weird sister’s prophecies were not what they seemed. Although, Macbeth received various triggers that led to his destiny, it is likely that he would have received the same fate, had the witches not interfered. â€Å"I'll make assurance double sure, And take a bond of fate. † Macbeth attempts to control fate by murdering his possible threats to power. Macbeth was ambitious at heart and clearly a power driven man, whom takes pride in his masculinity and in essence already on the pathway to destruction.Macbeth was too focused on gaining his own power and control, to comprehend the issues arising against him. As Macbeth aspired to optimum power, he gradually began to dehumanise. â€Å"What need we fear who knows it, when none can call our power to account? † Lady Macbeth questions whether the guilt and anxiety of murdering these loyal people was worth the power or lack of it. The weird sisters manipulated Macbeth into believing he was invincible, resulting in irrational acts of terrorism against the people of Scotland.Murder, betrayal, torture and cruelty were inflicted upon all of Macbeth’s followers on a regular basis, whom were forced to obey him. â€Å"I am in blood, stepped in so far, that, should I wade no more† Macbeth went too far, to withdraw and developed into a tyrannical leader for the simple reason he had the power to do so. What he chose to do with his power lead to his corruption, although, not all choose the wrong path. There are some individuals born to lead and gain power, with the intention of goodness and then there are others who do not retain the ability to effectively control their power.Duncan and Malcolm both emanate morality, with the aspiration to improve and support their country, Scotland. â€Å"But I must also feel it as a man,† Malcolm exclaims as he understands he must feel compassion In order to become a respectable leader. The destructive nature of power is explored in many aspects throughout the play, for each individual reacts differently. Macbeth was ambitious at heart and easily influenced to commit such brutality against his own people.However, Malcolm and Duncan were able to harness and control their power with intention of supporting their country to the best of their abilities. Mac beth’s fate seemed inevitable despite the weird sister’s interference, for he already retained the qualities of an ambitious tyrant. Macbeth ultimately desired power with fierce determination and eventually received it. Once he had acquired all power, he became ignorant and apparently ‘invincible’ ultimately resulting in his destruction.

Shape-Changers the Chronicles of the Cheysuli

Book Report Trevor Mendham While i was in the library with the class. Shape-Changers the Chronicles of the Cheysuli written by Jennifer Roberson had caught my interest. This book was published in 1984 while the author was living in a castle. Jennifer Roberson has said that the eight book series had been inspired by the castle in Wales. Although this book is part of a large series, I strongly believe this book is about the choices that we make. The main character Alix has the choice to play it safe or to take a risk and truly find the answers she seeks. I personally would enjoy continue reading this series. Although the book was very short and left quite a few lose ends for the next book. This book set in the land of Cheysuli within the Kingdom of Homana. Alix the daughter of a man who was a religion leader whom resigned after the war on shape-changers started. After this he started running a under-croft, where dead body are displayed for the public viewing, taking a major reduction in wage and honourable work. Alix has fallen for the prince named Carillon a childhood friend, from the fathers previous profession. Soon after they are captured while walking in the woods by the shape-changers. Alix finds that she is half blooded shape-changer and has to decide to accept who she is, and lose the love of price Carillon and be at war with his race. This story was very odd but was a good book. The fiction of this story is tied to reality in a very unique way, that is very effective in making the story not feel very fantasy. This feature made the book truly more enjoyable. Other writing techniques like not having any foreshadowing. The book keeps you guessing until the very end. Even within the story parts that I had never seen coming, Like releasing the prince. Allowing Alix to run away and eventually return on curiosity. I would recommend anyone who wants a quick read of a quality story. Overall I would give this story eight out of ten stars without reading the rest of the series.

Death and Absurdism in Camus’s The Stranger Essay

In his novel The Stranger1, Albert Camus gives expression to his philosophy of the absurd. The novel is a first-person account of the life of M. Meursault from the time of his mother’s death up to a time evidently just before his execution for the murder of an Arab. The central theme is that the significance of human life is understood only in light of mortality, or the fact of death; and in showing Meursault’s consciousness change through the course of events, Camus shows how facing the possibility of death does have an effect on one’s perception of life. The novel begins with the death of Meursault’s mother. Although he attends the funeral, he does not request to see the body, though he finds it interesting to think about the effects of heat and humidity on the rate of a body’s decay (8). It is evident that he is almost totally unaffected by his mother’s death – nothing changes in his life. In other words, her death has little or no real significance for him. When he hears Salamano, a neighbor, weeping over his lost dog (which has evidently died), Meursault thinks of his mother – but he is unaware of the association his mind has made. In fact, he chooses not to dwell on the matter but goes to sleep instead (50). It is when he is on the beach with Raymond Sintà ¨s and M. Masson and they confront two Arabs (who have given Raymond trouble) that Meursault first seems to think about the insignificance of any action – therefore of human existence. He has a gun and it occurs to him that he could shoot or not shoot and that it would come to the same thing (72). The loss of a life would have no significance – no affect on life as a whole; and the universe itself is apparently totally indifferent to everything. Here he implicitly denies the existence of God, and thus denies morality, as well as the â€Å"external† meaning (if it may be so distinguished from the internal or individual existential meaning) of life and dea th. (This latter, existential meaning is later affirmed, as we shall see.) Meursault kills one of the Arabs in a moment of confusion, partially out of self-defense, but does not regret it eve though it means going to prison and, ultimately, being executed. He has the fatalistic feeling that  Ã¢â‚¬Å"what’s done is done,† and later explains that he has never regretted anything because he has always been to absorbed by the present moment or by the immediate future to dwell on the past (127). In a sense, Meursault is always aware of the meaninglessness of all endeavors in the face of death: he has no ambition to advance socio-economically; he is indifferent about being friends with Raymond and about marrying Marie; etc. But this awareness is somehow never intense enough to involve self-awareness – that is, he never reflects on the meaning of death for him – until he is in prison awaiting execution. Of course, the â€Å"meaning† of another’s death is quite difference from the â€Å"meaning† of one’s own death. With the former, one no longer sees that person again; with the latter, one’s very consciousness, as far as we know, just ends – blit! – as a television picture ends when the set is switched off. Death marks all things equal, and equally absurd. And death itself is absurd in the sense that reason or the rational mind cannot deal with it: it is a foregone conclusion, yet it remains an unrealized possibility until some indeterminate future time. The â€Å"meaning† of death is not rational but, again, is existential – its implications are to be found not in abstraction but in the actuality of one’s life, the finality of each moment. Before his trial, Meursault passes the time in prison by sleeping, by reading over and over the newspaper story about the (unrelated) murder of a Czech, and by recreating a ment al picture of his room at home in complete detail, down to the scratches in the furniture. In this connection, it must be admitted that he is externally very sensitive and aware, despite his lack of self-understanding and emotional response. This is evidence by his detailed descriptions. He is especially sensitive to natural beauty – the beach, the glistening water, the shade, the reed music, swimming, making love to Marie, the evening hour he like so much, etc. He even says that if forced to live in a hollow tree truck, he would be content to watch the sky, passing birds, and clouds (95). After his trial (in which he is sentenced to be executed), he no longer indulges in his memories or passes the time in the frivolous way he was accustomed to spend Sundays at home. At first, he dwells on thoughts of escape. He cannot reconcile the contingency of his sentence (Why guilt? Why sentenced by a French court rather than a Chinese one? Why was the verdict read at eight pm rather than at five? etc.) with the mechanical certainty of  the process that leads inevitably to his death (137). When he gives up trying to find a loophole, he finds his mind ever returning either to the fear that dawn would bring the guards who would lead him to be executed, or to the hope that his appear will be granted. To try to distract himself from these thoughts, he forces himself to study the sky or to listen to the beating of his heart – but the changing light reminds him of the passing of time towards dawn, and he cannot imagine his heart ever stopping. In dwelling on the chance of an appeal, he is forced to consider the possibility of denial and thus of execution; therefore, he must face the fact of his death – whether it comes now or later. One he really, honestly admits death’s inevitability, he allows himself to consider the chance of a successful appeal – of being set free to live perhaps forth more y ears before dying. Now he begins to see the value of each moment of the life before death. Because of death, nothing matters – except being alive. The meaning, value, significance of life is only seen in light of death, yet most people miss it through the denial of death. The hope of longer life brings Meursault great joy. Perhaps to end the maddening uncertainty and thus intensify his awareness of death’s inevitability (therefore of the actuality of life), or, less likely, as a gesture of hopelessness, Meursault turns down his right to appeal (144). Soon afterwards, the prison chaplain insists on talking to him. Meursault admits his fear but denies despair and has no interest in the chaplain’s belie in an afterlife. He flies into rage, finally, at the chaplain’s persistence, for he realizes that the chaplain has not adequately assessed the human condition (death being the end of life) – or, if he has, the chaplain’s certainties have no meaning for Meursault and have not the real value of, say, a strand of a woman’s hair (151). Meursault, on the other hand, is absolutely certain about his own life and forthcoming death. His rush of anger cleanses him and empties him of hope, thus allowing him finally to open up — completely and for the last time — to the â€Å"benign indifference of the universe† (154). He realizes that he always been happy. The idea of death makes one aware of one’s life, one’s vital being – that which is impermanent and will one day end. When this vitality is appreciate, one feels free – for there is no urgency to perform some act that will cancel the possibility of death, seeing as though there is no such act. In this sense, all human activity is absurd, and the real freedom is to be aware of life in its actually and totally, of its beauty and its pain. Albert Camus’ The Stranger What if the past has no meaning and the only point in time of our life that really matters is that point which is happening at present. To make matters worse, when life is over, the existence is also over; the hope of some sort of salvation from a God is pointless. Albert Camus illustrates this exact view in The Stranger. Camus feels that one exists only in the world physically and therefore the presence or absence of meaning in one’s life is alone revealed through that event which he or she is experiencing at a particular moment. These thoughts are presented through Meursault, a man devoid of concern for social conventions found in the world in which he lives, and who finds his life deprived of physical pleasure–which he deems quite important–when unexpectedly put in prison. The opening line of the novel sets the tone for Meursault’s dispassion towards most things. The novel is introduced with the words: â€Å"Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don’t know† (3). Although the uncertainty originates with an ambiguous telegram, it seems that the ton†¦ †¦ middle of paper †¦ †¦ or their emotions in general. He does not follow ‘conventional’ social beliefs nor does he believe in God, nor salvation. Meursault however loves his life. It is a pure love derived from enjoying his existence on a day-to-day basis, rarely looking back and never looking forward. His love is not dependent on doing what society or some religion has deemed correct, but on what he feels he wants to do despite what most would consider common. In Albert Camus’ â€Å"The Stranger† the â€Å"story of an ordinary man who gets drawn into a senseless murder† is told. Taking place in Algeria this man, Meursault, is constantly in a climate of extreme warmth, as are all the inhabitants therein. The sun, the source of light and the cause of this warmth, is thus a vital and normal part of his life. It brings warmth and comfort yet it can also cause pain and sickness. Throughout most of his life Meursault has lived with the conflicting forces of the sun and light, as a friend and foe. However in Chapter 6 these forces become unbalanced and the sun becomes an aggressor causing Meurault physical pain and jolting him into violent action. Although the sun becomes increasingly aggressive as the novel transpires, in the beginning its forces were balanced causing some good and some bad effects. The most evidence of the sun as a foe is found during Meursault’s mother’s wake and funeral. During the wake Meursault is constantly â€Å"blinded† by the bright light. This combined with â€Å"the whiteness of the room† â€Å"[makes his] eyes hurt.† However, this same light also creates a â€Å"glare on the white walls†¦.making [him] drowsy† and allowing him respite from the knowledge of his mother’s death. So, all at once light was good as well as bad for Meursault. Again, during the funeral â€Å"with the sun bearing down† the heat was â€Å"inhuman and oppressive,† causing Meursault great physical discomfort. Yet, in the same token, the heat is also â€Å"making it hard for [Meursault] to †¦think straight† thereby allowing him an escape from his mo ther’s death. Not all of the sun’s effects have a flip side however; throughout the novel â€Å"the sun [does Meursault] a lot of good,† by warming him and making him feel alive. Thus, although both positive and negative situations come from the†¦ Work Cited Camus, Albert. The Stranger. Trans. Matthew Ward. New York: Vintage International, 1989.