Suicide and the Harm Principle

The Right to Suicide and Harm Suicide under circumstances of extreme suffering is the morally right action as opposed to the alternative, living in pain. J. S. Mill’s Utilitarian ideals provide strong reasoning to support suicide in instances of severe pain, while Kant’s moral theory of the categorical imperative provides reasoning against taking one’s own life. Mill’s principle of utility is the maximization of pleasure and the reduction of pain. Mill regards happiness as the greatest good in life and all actions should be performed as long as they have the tendency to produce pleasure.Mill also introduces the Harm Principle. The Harm Principle is used to determine whether coercion is justifiable based on the impact of individual actions. Stated, the Harm Principle is â€Å"the only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not a sufficient warrant† (On Liberty, I, 9). Mill believe that individuals have the right to autonomy in order to produce pleasure for themselves, but the right to autonomy must be controlled to allow equal exercise of this right by all individuals.To understand the application of Mill’s principles, harm must be defined. Harm is damage to another individual against their will. Mill introduces two types of harm: direct and indirect. Direct harm is when an individual performs an action that directly harms another person, such as murder. Indirect harm is when the individual performs an action that causes damage to others through performing an action on one’s self. (On Liberty, I, 11) The distinction between indirect and direct harm determines whether the individual who performed the action resulting in the harm is morally responsible for the harm inflicted.Mill offers little towards the definition of harm and the distinction between direct and indirect h arm. He writes: â€Å"Whenever, in short, there is a definite damage, or a definite risk of damage, either to an individual or to the public, the case is taken out of the province of liberty, and placed in that of morality or law† (On Liberty, IV, 10) Mill states that when individual actions pose a risk of â€Å"definite† damage, the individual is responsible to society for those actions.Therefore, â€Å"definite† harm is direct harm to others and all other harms are either (1) indirect harm to others or (2) direct harm to oneself and undeserving of legal or moral sanctions. However, the word â€Å"definite† is vague, leaving the definitions of indirect and direct harm unclear. To determine responsibility and appropriate sanctions to punish and deter, Mill employs a central idea of his theory: personal autonomy. Personal autonomy is an individual’s ability to pursue â€Å"their own good in their own way†, one of Mill’s four absolute r ights (On Liberty, I, 14).Each individual has the absolute right to exercise this autonomy, unless their actions impact the autonomy of another person. In cases where autonomous actions result in direct harm to others, either the government is justified in imposing legal sanctions such as jail time, or society is justified in imposing moral sanctions, such as shaming. Therefore, to determine whether direct harm was committed, one looks at whether one individual caused the abridgment of another individual’s absolute rights. Exegesis In this section, a case will be presented to prompt discussion about the morally validity of suicide.Mill’s reasoning will include a utility calculation and an evaluation of direct and indirect harm. Consider the following case. A young woman named Jane, aged 29, finds out she has the Parkinson’s gene. Jane watched her mother die from the disease and does not want to die the way her mother did. When the symptoms begin to set in and wo rsen, she decides to commit suicide. She knows that she can live many more years with the disease but she knows that her quality of life will be reduced. Jane believes that her quality of life will be so diminished that death is the only option. Is it right for Jane commit suicide?Mill would invoke the Harm Principle. The act of committing suicide would be a self-regarding act. As the harm is directly imposed on herself, all other consequences of her action are considered indirect as they occur through Jane’s self-regarding act. Hence, Jane should suffer no moral or legal sanctions for committing suicide. Furthermore, she has evaluated her options and upon deep consideration, decided that the pain of living with her condition outweighs the pleasure of living with her condition. A utility calculation can be formalized to further justify her decision on utilitarian grounds. Utilitarianism) For Jane: 1. Tendency to cause pleasure: 100 units 2. Tendency to cause pain: 50 units Fo r the aggregate of the other people affected: 3. Tendency to cause pleasure: 10 units 4. Tendency to cause pain: 20 units Hence: Pleasure: 110 units, Pain: 70 units. Perform the action. For Jane, dying would be the ultimate pleasure as it is the end of her suffering. She views suicide as the mean to her ultimate end: happiness. For Jane, the pain of dying is less than the pain of living. After seeing her mother die from Parkinson’s disease, she makes the valid decision to not die the same way.She recognizes that death is the end of her life and the pain of leaving her family and friends does impact on this decision. Yet, when compared to the suffering she will endure as her Parkinson’s progresses, the pleasure derived from these relationships is not enough to compel her to live. For the aggregate of the community, pleasure derived from Jane performing the action of suicide would be the comfort in knowing that (a) her wishes were respected and (b) her suffering is relie ved. However, the pain of Jane’s suicide outweighs the pleasure as the interests of the aggregate are compromised by her death.Upon her death, they mourn her loss and her loss deprives them of their relationship to her, along with other interests that she contributed to satisfying in living her life. Compared to the value of Jane’s pleasure and pain, the value of the aggregate of all other affected persons is less. Jane is directly impacted by her action, while all the others are indirectly impacted. Mill gives more consideration to direct actions as they are in the sphere of personal responsibility. Harm suffered outside of Jane’s sphere of action, or indirect actions, are of lesser value to Jane as she has no moral responsibility for indirect harm.Furthermore, the indirect harm does not violate anyone’s liberty rights and is therefore of lesser value than the direct harm. Therefore, Jane is justified in placing a lower value on the aggregate pain and pl easure of the community compared to her personal pain and pleasure. Hence, the tendency to cause pleasure outweighs the tendency to cause pain and the action should be performed. When one decides to commit suicide, Mill would argue that the only person directly affected is the individual.However, Mill writes: â€Å"No person is an entirely isolated being†, showing how an individual’s actions are never completely self-regarding (On Liberty). There will always be affected parties by your actions. While the family and friends of the individual will mourn the death, they are mourning the loss of a life. The loss of life affects the family and friends by harming the interests that they had in the success of the individual as a human life. For example, if the Jane was a mother, her family has a strong interest in maintaining their family structure and growing up with a present mother.While the harm is indirect, it is significant and â€Å"definite† as the family will be affected for the rest of their lives. With her death, their interests are compromised. The principal interest of all rational humans is happiness and interests serve the purpose of maximizing pleasure and reducing pain (Utilitarianism, II, 2). Pleasure is derived from living a good life and interests are what the individual desires to attain happiness. The pursuit of happiness is done through satisfying the individual interests of a person, hence to deny an individual of these interests would be to deny them of their happiness.The definitions of direct and indirect harm appear unsatisfactory in determining the morality of an action; however, by evaluating the importance of personal autonomy, a more satisfying conclusion is reached. If interests are the means to the ultimate end of happiness, then the individual who wants to commit suicide is a mean to the ultimate end of her family and friends’ happiness. If the individual satisfies her own happiness by committing suicide, she is performing an action to achieve her ends. Mill writes that the only justification needed for determining the desirability of an action is whether it is desired. Utilitarianism, IV, 3) As the individual desires to die, it is sufficient evidence that the action will provide happiness to the individual. Whether this action affects the interests of others is of minimal concern, as rational beings are not intended to serve as means to another’s happiness. Hence, suicide is justified as long as the individual achieves the ultimate end of happiness despite harming the interests of others. The Objection In this section, an objection from the perspective of Kant will be presented using the four formulations of his categorical imperative.Immanuel Kant would provide a compelling objection to Mill’s justification of suicide. Kant offers four formulations of the categorical imperative, proving suicide as an immoral act by the definition that moral actions meet the formulati ons of the categorical imperative. First, the Formula of Universal Law, states: â€Å" I ought never to conduct myself except so that I could also will that my maxim become a universal law†(Groundwork, Ak4:401) . The maxim that Jane is acting upon is killing one’s self to relieve suffering.To will this to become a universal law would be to will that all human suffering can solved through suicide. However, this is a self-defeating maxim as one can not enjoy relief from suffering if one ceases to exist. Second, the Formula of Nature states: â€Å"Act as if the maxim of your action were to become through your will a universal law of nature† (Groundwork, Ak4:421). By this formulation of the categorical imperative, the justification for committing suicide would be that she believes that suicide should be a universal law of nature.To say that suicide should be a universal law of nature is again, as mentioned in the above formulation, self-defeating. Also, Jane, as a r ational agent, would not will suicide to be a universal law of nature; hence, Kant would conclude that she is not justified in committing suicide. Third, the Formula of Humanity states: â€Å"†¦ any rational being exists as an end in itself, not merely as a means to the discretionary use of this or that will, but in all its actions, those directed toward itself as well as those directed toward other rational beings, it must at the same time be considered as an end† (Groundwork, Ak:4:428).Simply put, this formulation of the categorical imperative states that all rational beings are considered ends, rather then just means to another’s ends. Each individual is an end within themselves and all rational being must regard other rational beings as ends rather than means. In Jane’s decision to commit suicide, Kant would say that she is treating her own life as mere means to achieve her end. Kant explicitly writes: â€Å"the one who has suicide in mind will ask him self whether his action could subsist together with the idea of humanity as an end in itself† (Groundwork, Ak4:429).Kant believes that all rational humans are not mere means to ends, but ends within themselves. If one commits suicide, one acts in a way that regards their humanity as a mere means to their happiness, as they believe that happiness is achieved following their death. Kant would argue that suicide degrades humanity on the whole, treating life as a means to the ultimate end, rather than an end in itself (Groundwork, Ak4:42964). Fourth, the Formula of Autonomy states: â€Å"Not to choose otherwise than so that the maxims of one’s choice are at the same time comprehended with it in the same volition as universal law† (Groundwork, Ak4:441).This formulation of the categorical imperative says that by free will, rational agents dictate laws and by the same free will, rational agents subject themselves to the laws they dictate. Through this formulation, Kant demonstrates the absolute value of reason in rational beings. Through reason, rational beings create the laws through which they live moral lives. Suicide, even in the case of suffering, would not be a law that a rational agent would universally impose upon society for if it were imposed on society, humanity would be degraded.Kant would also argue that Jane has the perfect duty to preserve her life that this maxim would violate. Her duty relies on the respect for humanity and human life as ends, rather than means. Her violation of the duty through suicide shows a lack of respect for human reason as she is readily able to dispose of her own. Hence, Kant would conclude that the maxim of suicide to relieve suffering is not a valid maxim as it fails to satisfy this formula. Therefore, Kant would argue that suicide to relieve suffering does not satisfy the categorical imperative and is morally wrong.The Rejoinder In this section, Mill’s response to Kant’s objection is prese nted. By recalling the concept of autonomy, Mill refutes Kant’s objection to suicide. In response to Kant’s claims that suicide violates the four formulations, Mill would argue that based on the supreme principle of personal autonomy, Kant’s claims are false. While the maxim of killing one’s self to relieve suffering is not one that can be universally applied, the magnitude of suffering is important in considering Jane’s decision.It is far too broad to say that lack of respect for one individual’s life will lead to the erosion of respect for all human life (Edwards). Situations of suicide must be evaluated on an individual basis, not on the premise of respect for the entire human race. Realistically, it is unlikely that Jane’s suicide will lead to justification of suicide. Occurring every 13. 7 minutes in the US, suicide is a major cause of death but society still functions with relative stability and order (American Foundation for Su icide Prevention). Isolated cases do not determine the general state of the world.By failing to consider the consequences of actions for individuals Kant’s reasoning falls short by only drawing large-scale conclusions of the impact of motivations on humanity as a whole. The claim that Jane is treating her humanity as mere means to her end is false. Jane has lived her life as she has desired, deriving pleasure throughout the journey. As she nears the end, her pleasure begins to diminish and is overcome by the pain of her disease. Wanting to die before experiencing overwhelming pain is not a disregard for her life, instead, it is the preservation of the memory of a good life well lived.By wanting to die before her disease debilitates her, she maximizes the pleasures of life by avoiding pain. Furthermore, suicide does not represent a disregard for human rationality. Jane’s suicide is a triumph of human rationality. Because of reason, she is able to justify her decision to commit suicide by using the observation of her mother’s death as well as the medical facts that allow her to (1) know that she possess the gene that will give her the disease and (2) recognize the symptoms of Parkinson’s while determining how far the disease can progress without compromising her happiness.Analysis This section will offer an analysis of the arguments of both Kant and Mill in their ability to determine the morality of suicide. While it is important to recognize that Kant’s categorical imperative provides good reasoning promoting the preservation of life, the argument falls short in understanding the degree of personal suffering and the toll this suffering takes on an individual. The categorical imperative focuses on motives behind actions, but with an action such as suicide, where the end result is death, motives matter less than consequences.However, if the maxim under which Jane operates was stated as â€Å"Act in a way that promotes happiness and reduces pain†, both Kant and Mill may be satisfied. By this maxim, all the formulas stated above are valid and Mill’s principle of utility is satisfied. Autonomy lies at the heart of this dilemma and Mill’s response to Kant’s objections succeed in demonstrating that. Jane has valid reasons to commit suicide and because she is a rational agent, her reason must be respected.The utility calculation, as well as the concepts of direct and indirect harm, serve as valuable tools in drawing the conclusion that suicide is the morally correct action given Jane’s state of affairs. Works Cited Kant. â€Å"Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals . † (1785). Mill, J. S. â€Å"On Liberty. † (1859). Mill, J. S. â€Å"Utilitarianism. † (1861). Prevention, American Foundation for Suicide. Facts and Figures. 2012. 2012 .

Edward Said Essay

Edwars Said was born a Palestinian Arab in Jerusalem in 1935, and was American through his father, Wadie Saà ¯d, who was a U.S. Citizen. Wadie Saà ¯d, his father moved to Cairo, before the birth of his son . He spent much of his childhood travelling back and forth from Cairo to Jerusalem, visiting relatives. Saà ¯d said that in his childhood he lived â€Å"between worlds† — like Cairo (Egypt) and in Jerusalem (Palestine). Here are some of his words from this period of life: â€Å"I was an uncomfortably anomalous student all through my early years: a Palestinian going to school in Egypt, with an English first name, an American passport, and no certain identity at all. To make matters worse, Arabic, my native language, and English, my school language, were inextricably mixed: I have never known which was my first language, and have felt fully at home in neither, although I dream in both. Every time I speak an English sentence, I find myself echoing it in Arabic, and vice versa† In 1951, Saà ¯d was expelled from Victoria College for being a troublemaker, and was sent from Egypt to the United States, where he had a miserable year of feeling out of place; yet he excelled academically, achieving the rank of either first or second in a class of one hundred sixty students. He matured into an intellectual young man, fluent in the English, French, and Arabic languages. (he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University (1957), then a Master of Arts degree (1960) and a Doctoral Degree in English Literature (1964) from Harvard University.) Reflections on Exile and Other Essays brings together forty-six essays. The title essay, originally published in 1984 deals with Said’s own condition of exile, and with the implications of exile for those who experience it. While Said sees separation from a homeland as a difficult fate, he believes that the state of detachment gives exiles a unique vision. Being in exile means feeling in estrangement and even if there are romantic and happy episodes in an exile’s life, these are no more than efforts meant to overcome the crippling sorrow of being in pain. Said come to nationalism and its essential association with exile. Nationalism is belonging to a place, people and certain heritage. Nationalism fends off exile and fights to prevent its ravages. The interplay between them is like servant and master, opposites informing and constituting each other. All nationalism in their early stages develop from a condition of estrangement. In time, successful nationalism consign (ad) truth exclusively to themselves and relegate (elÃ… ±ldà ¶z) all outsiders. While nationalism is about groups, exile is solitude experienced outside the group: the deprivations felt at not being with others in the communal habitation. Exiles are cut off from their roots, their land, their past. Exiles don’t have armies or states, therefore they always feel the urge to create one. Exile is a jealous state. You don’t want to share what you have archieved, you have passionate hostility to outsiders, even to those who, in fact, are in the same position as you. Although it is true that anyone prevented from returning home is an exile, some distinctions can be made between exiles, refugees, expatriates and emigres. Exile originated in the age-old practice of banishment. Once banished, the exile lives a miserable life with the stigma of being an outsider. Refugees, on the other hand, are a creation of the 20th century state. The word â€Å"refugee† has become a political one, suggesting innocent and bewildered people requiring urgent international assistance. Expatriates voluntarily live in an alien country, usually for personal or social reasons. They may share in the solitude and estrangement of exile, but they do not suffer under its rigid proscription. Emigres enjoy an ambiguous status. Technically, emigre is anyone who emigrates to a new country. Much of the exile’s life is taken up with compensating for disorienting loss by creating a new world to rule. It is not surprising that so many exiles seem to be novelists, chess players, political activists, and intellectuals. Each of these occupations requires a minimal investment in objects and places a great premium on mobility and skill. The exile’s new world is unnatural and resembles fiction. George Lukacs, in Theory of the Novel, says that novel is a literary form created out of the unreality of ambition and fantasy, it is the form of â€Å"transcendental homelessness†. No matter how well they feel, exiles are always eccentric who feel their difference as a kind of orphanhood. The exile jealously insists on his or her right to refuse to belong. Wilfulness, exaggeration and overstatement are the characteristics styles of being an exile. You compel the world to accept your vision which you make more unacceptable because you are, in fact, unwilling to have it accepted. Artists in exile are decidedly unpleasant and their stubbornness insinuates itself into even their exalted works. Dante’s vision in The Divine Commedy is tremendously powerful in its universality and detail, but even the beatific peace archieved in the Paradiso bears traces of vindictiveness.(bosszuallas) James Joyce chose to be in exile to give force to his artistic vocation. He picked up a quarrel with Ireland and kept it alive so as to sustain the strict opposition to what was familiar. The exile knows that in a secular and contingent world, homes are always provisional (à ¡tmeneti). Borders and barriers, which enclose us within the safety of familiar territory, can also become prisons and are often defended beyond reason and necessity. Exiles cross borders, break barriers of thought and experience. According to Hugo of St. Victor, a 12th century-monk,a strong and perfect man archieves independence and detachment by working through attachments, not by rejecting them. Speaking of the pleasures of exile, there are some positive things to be said too. Seeing â€Å"the entire world as a foreign land† makes possible originality of vision. Most people are aware of one culture, one setting, one home, exiles are aware of at least 2. Both environments are vivid, actual and occuring together contrapuntally. There is a unique pleasure in this sort of apprehension, especially if the exile diminish judgement and elevate appreciative sympathy. Edward Saà ¯d was an advocate for the political and human rights of the Palestinian people. As a public intellectual, he discussed contemporary politics, music, culture, and literature, in lectures, newspaper and magazine articles, and books. Drawing from his family experiences, as Palestinian Christians in the Middle East, at the time of the establishment of Israel (1948), Saà ¯d argued for the establishment of a Palestinian state, for equal political and human rights for the Palestinians in Israel. His decade-long membership in the Palestinian National Council, and his pro–Palestinian political activism, made him a controversial public intellectual. He was intellectually active until the last months of his life, and died of leukemia in 2003.

Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper

Running head: Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper University of Phoenix August 31, 2009 Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper Despite the recent setbacks for its image, the United States has by far the largest influence in the region. During 2007, China supplied over two-thirds of computers exported to the U. S. from the six major trading nations. In fact, China contributed to $23. 2 billion (76. 7% ) of U. S. computer imports. It should not, however, take its influence in the region for granted, if China is to continue to position itself as an Asia Pacific power. Its influence in the region cannot be maintained by economic and military supremacy alone. East Asia is going through historic geopolitical changes due to the rise of China. Political interest in the vision of an East Asian community suggests that the region is in search of a new order to accommodate China’s growing power and influence and to maintain regional peace and stability. In no way is this an easy enterprise. Asian countries tend to suffer from domestic political difficulties in economic liberalization, large gaps in developmental stages among regional economies, and mutual distrust and historical antagonism between Japan and China. Despite these difficulties, however, there is a growing consensus that, eventually, East Asian countries will come up with some form of a regional community. Regional alliances and economic integration East Asian economic integration will help reduce regional tension and lighten America's security burden in the region. Economic integration will engage regional powers in stable regional interdependence where one's prosperity is in the interest of others, and make them more predictable and reliable to each other. Successful development of poorer countries in Asia through integration in regional economic dynamism will help political stability and reduce the possibility that these countries will become hotbeds of terrorism. Regional: Physical environment and its effect on trade Asia’s physical environment has a big affect on trade in a couple of ways. First the weather in Asia as a region is very unpredictable. Having unpredictable weather or catastrophic events can have a major impact on a business because companies could lose physical property, manufacturing time, or products which would result in financial loss. The air quality within the cities of Asia is poor and is known for creating health issues among the individuals living in that area. Production can be affected if employees are out sick and away from their jobs. Air pollution and an unclean environment only somewhat effects trade; however an organization can easily open up a factory there as well with cheap labor and weak environmental laws. Many foreign companies have placed their factories in China with a great deal of success because of the ability to hire cheap labor and to run their factories without many regulations. Regional Political Stability The political stability of China seems precarious at best. â€Å"While the US relies on free markets and free societies as the basis for contemporary socioeconomic and political movement, China focuses on stability as the essence of its foreign policy† (Cheow, 2006). China has often been fueled by propaganda but in recent years, China’s top political leaders have begun to stress how important stability is with all people throughout their country. This includes all people from all backgrounds. China’s political stability has helped to fuel economic growth throughout the country. Regional Social, Health, and Environmental Conditions Chinese workers remain among the lowest paid in the world. The average total labor compensation for a Chinese manufacturing worker is 57 cents per hour, with many making far less than that, benefits included† (McCormack, 2006). This translates to approximately $104 per month; this makes living any type of decent life as we know it utterly impossibly. Many low-paid Chinese employees will live in squalor and with many people to small single bedroom quarters. In China there is no shortage of workers; China has a large unemployment rate of 25% (McCormack, 2006) leaving an abundance of low arning employees for many years to come. Regional Terrorism Threats China does have an internal terrorist threat. Not only are there Muslim Separatists’ in the region, but also the Uygur separatist groups and the East Turkistan Islamic Movement, both of which have â€Å"been reputed to have trained in Afghanistan to fight along with the Taliban and al Qaeda† (chinaguide,com, 2009). It is important to understand China has recognized this issue and â€Å"to fight terrorism, the Chinese government will enhance international cooperation and strengthen legislation and law enforcement on anti-terrorism† (Xinhua News Agency, 2005). Regional: Economic conditions The economic conditions of Asia differ from which country you are in. This can affect trade in many ways that are positive and negative. The positives that come from a poor economy are the ability to hire cheap labor and to spend less on manufacturing the product. The company also comes into the region offering jobs to a society that truly needs money and the ability to make a living. Another advantage is the ability to export products all over the world from a very productive location. Negative aspects of a poor economy are that the product will not sell well in a poor region. Theft and destruction to an organization are another hazard that could occur when located in a poor region. The economic situations vary; some places in Asia are wealthy while some are very poor. Due to this fact, it is important to tailor an organizations marketing strategy to those each specific area. Regional: Finance options available When an organization decides to open their company in Asia, it is imperative to finance through a financial company that is well established. Team B’s company should finance their global organization through a successful, well established lender. There are also many successful companies in Asia that could possibly help finance and invest in Team B’s organization. Creating a strong business partner is extremely important in creating a successful and long-lasting organization. Country Political stability Since 1978 China has gone through a series of rapid changes within their government system; these political changes span from human rights practices to new labor laws. These new laws have allowed China to create a solid and stable foundation for the government and to operate on a daily basis. At the current time, China is politically stable. This can be seen in the growth of China as well as the impact that China is having on the global market. Country Economic Conditions In 1987, China constructed a three step developmental strategy that would increase the overall economic conditions in China. These three developmental strategies are: to double the 1980 GNP and ensure that the people have enough food and clothing, to quadruple the 1980 GNP by the end of the 20th century, and to increase per-capita GNP to the level of the medium-developed countries by the year 2050. Step one ensures that the Chinese level of poverty will not increase. The second step has already been achieved in 1995. Finally, the third and final step, explains that by increasing the GNP, Chinese citizens will be financially stable and be equipped with modern technology. The current economic condition is better than expected with new heavy and light industry, agricultural and energy expansion. The Chinese economy continues to grow at a fast pace. Country Financial Options Building and manufacturing plastic laptop housing in China offers a couple of financial options for the company to expand. The first financial option available is low to no interest loans offered by the Chinese government. This financial option is an incentive offered by China to attract new business into their country. Another financial option is building capital through investors. This option would create a group of shareholders that have intvested the capital needed to build a new facility with potential return on their investment. Country Social, Health, and Environmental Conditions The current social, health and environmental conditions are not as good as other countries but the Chinese government is working on reforming these conditions throughout the nation. The safety and working conditions are considered much lower and more dangerous than other parts of the world. A few of the steps that the Chinese government is currently working on are 1. â€Å"Enacting and improving environment and health laws and regulations. † (China. org. cn. ,  2009). 2. â€Å"Build a supervision network on environment and health† (China. org. cn. ,  2009). 3. â€Å"Set up state environment and health information share and service system† (China. org. cn. ,  2009). Even though China’s current social, health, and environmental conditions are not the most favorable, the Chinese government is continually working on ways to improve the quality of the environment and working conditions throughout the nation. Cultural Considerations One of the first things that should be considered is that China’s history spans more than 5,000 years. In years past China has experienced times of feudalism, communism, invasion, but now they have a fledgling market economy. When considering doing business in China, one of the biggest things to consider is the different arrays of Chinese business culture and etiquette. Chinese business culture and etiquette includes maintaining eye contact between the members of the business meeting. Without eye contact the perception of untrustworthiness will be portrayed. Another very important aspect of Chinese business etiquette is to address each Chinese counterpart with his or her title and last name; if they don’t have a title address them with Mr. or Madam. China’s current culture should be taken into consideration to illustrate respect towards their country and businesses (Winters, 2008). Organization and Product Analysis Team B will be developing an organization that intends to make plans for manufacturing laptop computer housing in China. Computer housing is the shell that protects the memory, processors, and drives that enable a computer to work. This organization would create and manufacture computer housing then sell them to computer companies like Dell, IBM, or HP who would then build and sell computers to consumers. Desktop computer housing sales have declined because there has been a decrease in desktop sales and an increase in laptop sales. The market is also beginning to see sales of Notebooks or small wireless computers that’s main function is internet media and communication (Abbasi, 2009). As laptop sales and notebook sales increase there will be a continuous need for laptop housing. Conclusion Ultimately, as the demand for technology increases and adapts to an emerging Chinese society, active U. S. support for improving global and regional institutions, promoting Asian development and fostering Asian regional cooperation would enhance its influence in the region and elsewhere. With this perspective, the rise of China and the trend toward intra-regional economic integration in Asia are opportunities for both of our countries. Team B’s organization would benefit in many aspects by manufacturing laptop housing in China. References Abbasi, S. (2009). Netbooks a factor in increase in laptop sales. Startup Meme. Retrieved August 30, 2009 from, http://startupmeme. com/netbooks-a-factor-behind-increase-in-laptop-sales/. China. org. cn.. (2009). Action Plan on Environment and Health (2007-2015). Retrieved August  30, 2009, from http://www. china. org. cn/english/environment/238275. htm China Under Threat of Terrorism: Official (August, 2005) Retrieved August 29, 2009 From: http://www. china. org. cn/english/government/140269. htm Good Luck Competing Against Chinese Labor Costs Mfg. Job Growth In China Is Headed Up, Not Down; 109 Million Mfg. Workers In China Dwarfs Number In U. S. , McCormack, R. (May, 2006). Retrieved August 29, 2009 from: http://www. manufacturingnews. com/news/06/0502/art1. html US Department of State. (2009). Background Note: China . Retrieved August  30, 2009, from http://www. state. gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/18902. htm U. S. -China Ideological Rivalry Heats Up. (January 2006) Cheow, E. The Japan Times. Retrieved August 29, 2009 from: http://yaleglobal. yale. edu/display. article? id=6737 Winters, E. (2008). Headed for China? Cultural considerations. China Business Success Stories. Retrieved August 30, 2009 from, http://www. chinasuccessstories. com/2008/02/13/heading-for-china/. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.. (2009). Economy of the People's Republic of China. Retrieved August  30, 2009, from http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Economy_of_the_People's_Republic_of_China | |

Behaviour change and sustainability Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Behaviour change and sustainability - Assignment Example In other words, thoughtful and strategic tactics have to be applied to different individual for developing an effective behaviour change. 5. Innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards are the main personality types within the Individual Innovativeness model. Innovators are willing to take risk and devote money and time to execute a new idea, whereas early adopters always tend to be esteemed group leaders. Early majority represents careful individuals unwilling to take initiative or risk time and other resources, while late majority constitutes people who are resistant to any kind of change. Finally, laggards are individuals having consistency in resisting change. Innovators constitute 2.5%, early adopters 13.5%, early majority 34%, late majority 34%, and laggards 16% of the general population. 6. Knowledge, persuasion, decision, implementation, and confirmation are the five steps in the process of diffusion. Under the knowledge phase, a person begins to learn about a new innovation while he develops attitudes through interactions during the persuasion stage. In the decision stage, the person tends to gather additional information and finally arrives at a decision. The individual attempts regular use and seeks more information during the implementation step. Under the confirmation phase, continuation of use is approved or refused on the basis of benefits or drawbacks collected. 7. Employees, line-mangers, and management teams are the major groups in an organisation. With limited resources and time, the apex level management team is most responsive or fertile for beginning the adoption of a change. Organisational studies indicate that top management teams’ support for change is approximately 100% since their outcome expectation is higher. Moreover, management teams would be more concerned with organisational

Financial Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 9

Financial Management - Essay Example need to have a clear and well planned budget, monitoring the performance and taking action whenever needed, focus should be placed on essential numbers like salaries, materials and also sales. A keen eye on these aspects of the financial management will lead to the better financial management in large companies (Brodie, 2009). Choice of a determining the optimal mix of components of the capital structure is a very complex process and involves a number of different considerations. A number of different views of the capital structures need to be considered like the net corporate or personal tax, agency costs, bankruptcy cost and pecking order. There are a few components which build a company’s capital, these are: Ordinary shares, preference shares, debentures, and loan stock. Deciding the optimal mix is based on finding the right mix of long term funds which allow minimizing the cost of capital and helping maximize the value of the organization. This situation is referred to as the optimal capital structure. However, it is a known fact that gaining an optimal capital structure is not possible since, the changing of the mox of capital does not change the values. A company can be financed by a number of different modes. The type of capital financing that has been chosen for the company is referred to as the capital structure of the company. A company can be financed using debentures, equity shares, long term loans, etc. These options however are based on the nature of risk the investors are willing to take. The following sections will discuss the various financing options that are available for investors to finance their companies and the factors that affect the choice have also been discussed. a) Equity Financing: This is the most common mode of financing used by companies. Here companies raise monies for the business by selling stocks of the company. These can either be

Waste Management Strategy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Waste Management Strategy - Research Paper Example The basic aim was to derive the analytical framework guiding different phases of this Project. Goals of Project (Week 1): The project performed a business simulation on the T5 programme using important theoretical study features resulting in the following hypothesis to be tested as per current progress: the T5 programme is on schedule and within the project management scope of costs, time and budgetary constraints. The sub-goals of the project were identified in terms of research goals: Results presentation (Weeks 1-2): A detailed planning made for of different areas of interest for T5 programme: 1. Reviewing current status at T5; 2.Analysing the research questions; 3. Discussing basic methods of waste management being employed; 4. Points to be kept in mind for design e.g. software such as Autodesk; 5. Recycling methods (85% recycling results); 6. Environmental concerns/legislative actions.; 7. Operational risk management study; 8. Other aspects such as finances, etc. The author's main purpose in presenting all possible result areas, was to achieve a reasonable amount of self-sufficiency in tackling any future challenging projects (provided they meet funding criteria) and to develop a solid career in this emerging field. 2. Literature Review Raw Data sources (Weeks 2-5): During this phase, the author researched different learning materials (both research as well as case studies) to determine whether the T5 construction project was being handled efficiently (Refer Week 1 hypothesis). The literature sources varied from BAA brochures to various data collected from field sources. A significant deficiency in this proposal was the lack of primary data (interviews). Since the T5 project is currently under construction, it was proprietary and classified information not available in public domain. Upon a request to consultants dealing in recycle strategies as applied to design and development, most declined to comment on the exact nature of these strategies, especially the financial parts and the underlying methods in isolating key materials being used. The best guess was to look into a case study approach based on inferential and exploratory data from secondary sources. Development of data sources (Weeks 5-9): The most important phase of the project, the main aim was to build up the state of the art in relation to T5

Control projects, capital management, risk management and evaluation Essay

Control projects, capital management, risk management and evaluation - Essay Example inciple of using this technique concept was used as a tool towards initiatives of standardisation and certification of OHSM systems that complied with the Australian and International standards. In Australia, harmonised occupational health and safety in all States was introduced with the Act and Regulations coming into force in 2012. Under the Act, an employer has an obligation to ensure the health and safety of each of the employer’s workers at work and of others who may be adversely affected by the work being undertaken, including the working environment, systems of work, plant, and substances. The employer must provide information, instruction, training and supervision. In addition an employer needs to monitor the health and safety of employees, manage information, and records relating to work-related injuries. There are also provisions relating to consultation with workers, according to Hopkins (2005) workplace safety requires employers to maintain a safe workplace, so far as reasonably practicable in the language to reduce risks to a level that is as low as reasonably practicable. This approach according to Hopkins (2005) was recommended in the Robens report in 1972, with the Robens conjecture being adopted in many jurisdictions. This paper has addressed the requirements of WBL 8020 (2) units. Beginning with an introduction of the developments of the standard 1 Boral OHSM with reference to the implementation of the concept of a conceptual framework that outlines and presents a preferred method in categorising risk strategically and objectively in business activities. The core elements of the system have been introduced in the (Appendix power point), with the concept of the system being discussed. This paper has addressed some of the preconditions for successful... The purpose of this paper is to examine courses of actions and implementation in a conceptual framework that outlines and presents a preferred approach in categorising risk strategically and objectively in our organisational enterprise activities. This paper will venture in constructing a reflective consciousness of the existing risk measures taken when developing and implementations of the strategy process of endorsing our company moving to a single Health and Safety System that will provide a standardised robust HSE system that can be embedded at all National BCM Boral operational sites and offices. The project was to develop one safety management system throughout the Company nationally. The strategy piloted 5 different sites incorporating the BCM business units of the Company (Asphalt, Quarries, Concrete and Logistics) in New South Wales incorporating all business units of BCM Boral operations of the company, determining how safety is managed throughout the business. Feedback was required from personnel from these sites to make necessary changes to the system. The implementation of a National safety management system was undertaken in four phases that was used as an outline for evaluating the effectiveness of project implementation. †¢ Phase one (1) involved planning of OHS National Safety management system. †¢ Phase two (2) focused on reactive safety management processes. †¢ Phase three (3) focused on predictive and proactive safety management processes. †¢ Phase four (4) focused on operational safety assurance.

Christian Thought, Greek Philosophical Thought, Hindu Tradition Research Paper

Christian Thought, Greek Philosophical Thought, Hindu Tradition - Research Paper Example Hence discovering new avenues of mythology and knowing peculiar but amazing facts about the believes of Hindus. On the morning of November 1st 2011, I packed my bags and was out for a trip to New York, probably the most busy and populated cities of USA. My trip mainly aimed at visiting the various Hindu temples in the city and jotting my experiences as this was my field work. I got a list of the Hindu temples as a part of my assignment that I had to cover. My first visit on 2nd November, 2011 was to the Ganesha Temple, located in 45-57 Bowne street, New York. It was small frame temple, was completed in the initial days of 1977. I then came to learn the deity worshipped was that of the elephant god, who is known as Ganesha. The idol of the deity is gorgeously dressed. As per the traditional Hindu belief, Lord Ganesha's blessings are indispensible for success in all mundane affairs. So Ganesha puja is supposed to be an essential part, before any Hindu religious activity. Customarily ca rried out be it a marriage or any other ritual. As per Hindu Mythology, Lord Ganesha is the first son of Lord Shiva and Universal Mother Goddess Parvati and is an embodiment of knowledge. As per traditional belief, Lord Ganesha was beheaded during the time of his birth, however instead of a human head his head was replaced by that of an elephant. Despite the fact that this is a mythological anecdote, what really amazes me is how the story is mingling with so many Hindus sentiments and how it has got a profound influence on the way of life of a devout Hindu.  The daily rituals of Pujas are performed with utmost sincerity and full devotion, both in the temple, and as also I came to learn, as a daily way of life of many Hindus here in New York, although they are miles away from their home country. In addition to the daily rituals, the weekend services are conducted by volunteer priests. Structurally, the temple follows the guidance laid down in the Hindu scriptures for temple buildin g, also known as the Agama Shastra in Sanskrit. Agama Shastra also provides a departure from the traditionally accepted ways of religious conduct and worship that has been laid down in the main body of Hindu scriptures of Vedas, Upanishads, Epics and Puranas. My next visit was to the Om Sai Mandir, located in the heart of the city at 45-11 Smart Street. c. The temple is open from early morning till late evening, and contains the idol Sri Sai Baba. All visitors were welcome to visit the temple and seek the Baba's blessings, whether they were devout followers of the Guru or not. Sai Baba is a real life figure, who preached his faith to his followers during historical times. This is in contrast to Lord Ganesha, whose originates from Hindu mythology. He was a spiritual saint, a fakir (beggar). His followers believe that he helped his contemporaries and disciples with his miracles. The Baba is a Hindu Guru, a mystic philanthropist as well as educator of religious virtues. In the religiou s teachings of the Baba, one witnesses a blend of Hindu and Muslim beliefs and ways of life. So, like the Sufi Movement, the preaching of the Baba heralds the confluence of both Hindus and Muslims religious thoughts. To my surprise this is the place one can say, this temple occupies a position of importance for people of both the faiths who live here in New York, be their origin in India or in other countries of the sub-continent like Bangladesh and Pakistan. Seeing the personalities and faiths of religious leaders

Tax Claim Advise Letter Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Tax Claim Advise Letter - Case Study Example The nature of your employment means that you spend more than half the year outside the country. To determine your residency, the Australian tax office applies some test to ascertain whether you fall under its jurisdiction for tax purposes namely the residency: ‘resides test’, domicile test, 183 day rule and the superannuation test. This is addressed under subsection 6(1) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936. According to the first test, whether a person is an Australian resident is a matter of fact and degree1 that depends on the circumstances of each case. However, some factors are considered. One and that is relevant to your scenario is the nature and extent of family and business ties that a person has established in Australia. According to the documents you have provided us, you have established a business, and indeed you have been the exclusive importer of widgets into Australia. In reference to the domicile test, a person is a resident in Australia if they have a domicile in Australia unless the commissioner becomes satisfied that person’s permanent place of residence is abode is outside Australia. Under the above two test, you qualify as a resident. However, you do not satisfy the 183 day test that applies to an expatriate and requires that they must have been present in Australia for more than 183 days. In Taxation Ruling IT, it was held that where a person temporarily leaving Australia, if they satisfy the first test, that is residency in the ordinary sense, then there is no need to go any further and they are residents for income tax purposes. Consequently, you are a resident for income tax purposes. Having addressed residency, we turn to your tax liability under the Income Tax Act. To compute taxable income, the tax law makes a distinction between income and capital receipts. Your taxable income shall include your PAYG payment from Compass, dividends from west point, capital assets gain from the sale of the estate, termination of the distribution agreement and business income from the distribution of widgets. Under the PAYG system, tax is deducted by the employer from the gross salary, who pays it to the ATO. This would cover your tax liability if you had no other source of income. Nevertheless, one must file returns if the amount exceeds $6000 of taxable income. If there is non-salary income, one, however, receives credit for tax paid under PAYG. With regards to your PAYG payments, your employers have already deducted the tax due. Total taxable income should be as calculated in appendix 1. Notice that the allowances; both laundry and uniform are deducted to arrive at your taxable income because these two occupation related expenses that are incurred to earn your taxable income.to add, the Skin care products purchased due to flight attendant role amounting to 629.00 is also deductible. Also notice that the fridge benefits have not been added since they are treated differently since they are taxed at the rat e of 46.5%, and the tax year is different, as it runs from 1st April t0 30th may. Dividends received from Westplains ltd are also added to arrive at your taxable income as shown in appendix A. Notice that the amount added includes the flanked amount and flanking credits. This system applies to prevent double taxation. This is because the company pays a divided at the corporate rate and the dividend is

Contemporary Issues in International Business Essay - 1

Contemporary Issues in International Business - Essay Example Thus, inter-dependency of states has become a critical factor that necessitates evolution of monetary system for currency exchange in the inter-state trade practices. In the post WWII era, Bretton Wood System had addressed the issue of international finance and currency relationship to promote stable trade amongst the countries. As a result, international agencies like International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank had emerged. IMF’s major objective was to facilitate and promote international business and stabilize foreign exchange through balance of payment for countries that were unable to meet their debt payments. At the same time, World Bank provides grants and low interest or interest free loans on easy term to credit worthy under developed and developing countries in the areas of poverty alleviation, health, education, environment conservation, sustainable development etc. The bank gets its finance from the donation from its member countries and the repayment of loans and interest money. In the recent times, the roles of these two agencies have come under lot of criticism. Thus, the roles of IMF and World Bank need to be analyzed and evaluated for introducing to make them more effective in the contemporary environment of global values. IMF is primarily a monetary system that was created in 1944. The initiatives taken in the Bretton Wood System had promoted US dollars as major currency because at that time, America was economically strong and was seen as a major facilitator of economic growth and opportunities. Another major factor was that the dollar was backed by huge reserve of gold deposit in America. IMF provided the necessary impetus to the international trade and economic cooperation amongst nation through mechanisms that included multilateral system of payment by member countries, stability in foreign exchange and supporting economically weak member nations with short term problems of ‘balance of payment’. It had also extended long term funds to developing countries which had faced the balance of payments problem during the structural changes that were needed to promote the socio-economic development of the region. World Bank was also an important actor in the socio-economic development process of under developed and developing countries. While it extended soft term loans and grants to these countries, it is also a commercial lender and is not totally dependent on the developed nations for its financial viability. It has relatively huge foreign exchange reserve and is therefore able to meet its various obligations. But in the recent times, many of its creditors have failed to repay the loans. Oxfam has claimed for 100% debt relief to 33 highly indebted poor countries (Mallaby, 2004). At the same time, emerging new economies like India and China have developed huge foreign reserves of their own and rely less on these agencies for funds. Most importantly, the transforming global economy has disturbed the d ominant position of US dollars. The fast emerging economies like India and China have challenged the American monopoly in the global market. It has not only not remained a major donor to the international agencies but the deteriorating economic conditions of America with a large foreign debt and deficit account balance, have adversely impacted dollar. The fixed exchange rate of currency has collapsed under new market based economy. The diktats of free trade and liberalization of economies across the globe have become important factors that demand new mechanisms for creating mutually beneficial trade practices. With market enforced floating currency rates, the political legitimacy of IMF and World Bank has become highly controversial. These agencies need to redefine their goals vis-a-vis new market

Poetry Analysis Essay Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Poetry Analysis Assignment - Essay Example The speaker is conversing from beyond the grave and describing the journey she undertook with death. The speaker is now a ghost and journeys through the life before and after death together with death. Death is personified and appears to be travelling along with the speaker from life to afterlife. The setting of the poem keeps changing since the speaker and death are on a journey, which begins when the speaker is picked by death for what seems like an adventure. This paper focuses on analyzing the poem by explaining the different themes within the poem, which include mortality, immortality, love, and spirituality. This paper also seeks to analyze the different figures of speech such as personification, alliteration, and rhymes used by the author to emphasize on the themes. The poem â€Å"Because I Could Not Stop for Death† attempts to display the cycle of life. This statement depicts the speaker to have been too busy to notice the presence of death. The poem however analyses t he cycle from behind as it starts with the death. The lines â€Å"We paused before a House that seemed A Swelling of the Ground† (Dickinson, 2011, para. 5) describe the dwelling of the speaker, which shows that she is already dead and buried. The Statement â€Å"The Carriage held but just ourselves –/ and Immortality† (Dickinson, 2011, para 1) is used to depict a period or loneliness and isolation from the world. In this statement, the immortality is personified such that it appears to be accompanying the author. The author also attempts to demonstrate the loneliness that death brings. She then moves to the stage of childhood when she says â€Å"At Recess – in the Ring.† (Dickinson, 2011, para.3) This depicts the author is recalling and describing the prime years of life.  After this stage of delight, a stage full of uncertainty follows which the poet describes as he â€Å"Dews drew quivering and Chill –For only Gossamer, my Gown† ( Dickinson, 2011, para. 4). Some of the uncertainties characterizing this stage include unfulfilled needs. The speaker’s gown is not sufficient to protect her from the cold. â€Å"We slowly drove- He knew no haste† (Dickinson, 2011, para. 2) depicts death as a forward but slow process, which is like a long journey. Personification is used to emphasize the slowness of death. The main themes discussed in this poem include mortality, immortality, spirituality, and love. The theme of mortality gyrates throughout the poem since the poem is a depiction of the speaker’s attitude towards death. The speaker talks of â€Å"A Swelling of the Ground-† (Dickinson, 2011, para.5) indicating presence of a grave. The theme of immortality become evident as the speaker is already dead and yet revisits her before death, which indicates existence of afterlife. The line â€Å"Surmised the Horses’ Heads- Were toward Eternity –† (Dickinson, 2011, para.6) show s belief in life after death. The word Eternity is capitalized to indicate the place the author is travelling towards in her journey. The theme of spirituality in the poem is portrayed by use of a ghost speaker. Thus, the author must have been religious. The theme of love is evident when the speaker appears to be on a date with death though the theme is not clearly spelt. The author has utilized figurative language such as alliteration, repletion, symbolism, anthropomorphism, personification, paradox, and metaphor to accentuate the different themes. â€Å"And Immortality†

Going to College Essay Example for Free

Going to College Essay Going to college really does open a new chapter in everyone life, the beginning of new friendships, opportunities and growth. As a college student, a new student will be introduced to new areas of interest, broaden his vision of possibilities, establish and accomplish goals, develop lifelong friendships and define him or her in ways that he can imagine. Anyone on Earth already asked, or will ask himself where he would be in 10, 20 or even 30 years down the road. It is hard enough imagining what his life is going to be like in a year or two. Questions like â€Å"Where do you want to be today, tomorrow and in the future? † might be hard ones for young teenagers, who just graduated from high school. Attending college will help anyone answer those questions, develop a realistic plan for accomplishing his goals, and equip him with the knowledge and skills he will needs to see his goals through to the end. We usually assume that a college degree is necessary when it is not actually. We can also noticed that, because we place so much emphasis on degrees, people who have not attended college think of themselves badly, and this lack of self-confidence can really impede their success. There are some people for whom the college is actually not the best way to learn. However, a college education is an opportunity for everyone to learn what he loves. A new student can actually take the time to enjoy learning what he is truly passionate about. If he is interested in a variety of things and he is not sure where to focus, he can take his time to try them all. Nobody should look at college as a long-term contract that he is not going to be able to get out of once he starts. Anyone should feel like he needs to decide on a major area of study before starting college. College is a time for everyone to test himself, explore his interests, see what the possibilities are, and to see what he can achieve. Most other students attending college are going to be in the exact same boat. There are also a variety of resources, provided by most universities, to help anyone through college, including academic advisors, professors accessible on campus, tutoring academic support, full-time counseling staff and more. While the prospect of attending college may seem a bit daunting and even suffocating, a graduated high school teenager should not forget that he will still get to live his life. He will be able to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, social groups, maintain a job, or even pursue a career while completing his studies. He may even find that college ends up being much more enjoyable and fulfilling than he ever expected. There are additional reasons as to why it is important to go to college. When students experience a post-secondary education, they have the opportunity to read books and listen to the lectures of top experts in their fields. This stimulation encourages students to think, ask questions, and explore new ideas. So, â€Å"why should you go to college? † The reasoning does not begin and end with the job aspect. A good education is beneficial from many different viewpoints. If any teenager is still asking himself why he should go to college, it is important to remember the significant amount of opportunity available for college graduates. The global economy is becoming increasingly more competitive, and in order to give him the best chance for a well-paying job, he must first understand the importance of college education. Attending college provides students with the knowledge and experience they are unable to receive from a secondary education, and finding a way to fund a higher education now can pay off in a huge way in the years to come.

The Empress Dowager CI XI History Essay

The Empress Dowager CI XI History Essay Empress Dowager Ci Xi was born in 1835. She had two younger brothers. Her father Hui Zheng was a member of the Bordered Blue Banner of the Eight Banners. Bordered Blue Banner was descendant of royal, so she had an excellent familys background. According to annals, she spent her early life in Anhui Province. The earlier period of childhood, she started to learn literature, painting and handwriting. She had been training hard for several years before she moved to Beijing. Ci Xi took apart in a selection program for concubines for the new Xian Feng Emperor. She was a talented girl, so she was one of the few girls selected to be Preparative Concubine. After that, she was promoted to Noble Person after she was selected to serve the Emperors daily life. She was pregnant for the first time in 1855, and she gave birth to Tong Zhi in 1856. Tong Zhi was the only son of the Xian Feng Emperor. So Ci Xi was promoted to Noble Imperial Consort Yi. The Xian Feng Emperor became lazy because of his ba d health, and Ci Xi was good at handwriting, so Xian Feng Emperor looked over the political documents, and asked Ci Xi to write comments on it. So at that time Ci Xi started to contact with politics. British and French troops attacked Beijing in 1860, Xian Feng Emperor took his son and Ci Xi fled Beijing to a safety place called Re He. However Xian Feng was seriously ill at that time, his son Tong Zhi was only 6 years old; its too young to manage the whole country, so Xian Feng Emperor summoned eight of his most prestigious ministers to help his son to manage the country. Xian Feng Emperor died in 1861. After the death of the Xian Feng Emperor, both of his Empress Consort and Noble Consort Yi were elevated to the empress dowager. Tong Zhi became the new emperor and the Eight Regent Ministers tried to reduce the right of the new emperor, but Ci Xi was not satisfied with the Eight Regent Ministers. So she made a plan to arrest them, and killed them with the help of Prince Gong. After that, Ci Xi started to mix in politics. In breaking with tradition, Ci Xi became the first and only Qing Dynasty Empress to rule from behind the curtains. Tong Zhi Emperor died in 1875, Ci Xis nephew Guang Xu became the new Emperor. However, Ci Xi still ruled from behind the curtains. The first Sino-Japanese War was break out in 1894, the result of the defeat the Qing government was forced to sign the Treaty of Shimonoseki. Empress Dowager Ci Xis policy to the war was negative, so after a series of the wars of invading China, we lost our dominion gradually. Empress Dowager Ci Xi died in the Hall of Graceful Bird on 15 November 1908. Empress Dowager Ci Xi, as an emperor had governed the Qing Dynasty for about forty years. When the Qing Dynasty was found at beginning, the emperor not Empress Dowager Ci Xi had set a ban that the imperial harem or seraglio should not participate in the international affairs. When it was Ci Xis turn to govern the whole country, everything seemed changed. She used her beauty to make Xian Feng believe her and they soon got a baby called Tong Zhi. When Tong Zhi emperor controlled the country, it was a bad time. Britain and France united army went through Beijing and attacked and occupied Beijing. Then Xian Feng emperor escaped to a summer retreat. That was absurd that the high status emperor escaped when facing violence. How could the folks look at him? The only thing they responded was laughing at Xian Feng emperor. Just at that moment, Empress Dowager Ci Xi grasped this chance to become herself a psychologist. She came to comfort Xian Feng emperor. But as a pity, he died soon. However Xian Feng emperor knew well about how good or bad Empress Dowager Ci Xi was. So he left an imperial edict to Empress Dowager Ci Xi to prevent her in case she done something harmful. But out of Xian Fengs prediction, Empress Dowager Ci Xi made the imperial in her own hands by using some kind of means. She made herself to be the emperor. How contemptible s he was! When Tong Zhi was died at the age of 21 with sexual disease, it was obvious that Empress Dowager Ci Xi should take over the political power when Guang Xu was too young to take charge of the country. Empress Dowager Ci Xi always insisted on centralism. She suppressed the Taiping Rebellion which was an appeal for peasants` right. But she made it down. She kept the situation which was called centralism. Making the military power hold in her hand, she would not like anyone else to crab anything from her. In 1904, Japan and tsarist Russia made a war because of the territory of China and Korea. It took place in the northeast of China. To everyones surprise, Empress Dowager Ci Xi held the position standing in the middle. Thus made the people lived in northeast of China suffered in great pain. She even could bear that the people who were under her control were in pain not only in physic but also in mental. She made all rights belong to herself. She designed and snared the ministers, judged them with blank commitments. She smashed others` power into ash. She insisted in holding the main power and making everyone who was under her control listen to her. She made a rule which was that anyone could not challenge her position or doubt her ability because all she wanted was the whole nation and the entire power. As a leader, she failed to care about the folks` emotions and even did not know what they really needed and what they worried. She just knew that she had the responsibility to protect her position from being usurped. Not only in her political aspect had she something that made people dissatisfied with her but also in the life aspect. For example, Empress Dowager Ci Xi had a habit that was: where she went, where the meal went. So she did not have a specifically restaurant which was designed to eat.  Incidentally, the bowls she used were colored in bright yellow, covered with silver lid, and some of them were decorated with dragon patterns, while others printed the Chinese character shou ¼Ã‹â€ Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ¼Ã¢â‚¬ °. The each meal of Empress Dowager Ci Xi was contained about 150 dishes. All the dishes were neatly arranged in rows. One row was a large line of bowls, and another row was a line of small dishes, followed by a row of a small bowl, in this case order.  When the two female officers came into the bedroom and put the table, they were holding a big yellow food container.  Her tea cups were made by pure white jade, and tea trays and lids were gold. Empress Dowager Ci Xi would not eat with other people.  When she began to eat, she always ordered the eunuchs to brought silver chopsticks, spoons, etc., and then said: Im sorry you have to stand up when you are having your meal, but these are the rules set by our ancestors. I can not break the rules, even the Queen can not sit in front. Im sure if the foreigners know how we treat the woman in the palace, they would certainly think that we are barbarians. But you will soon find that I practice in front of them is completely different, they do not see merely who we are. Many people think that Empress Dowager Ci Xi was a bad woman in the Chinese history. However, she also had her success.    First of all, Ci Xis struggles are worth for us to learn. In Qing Dynasty, nobody can be greater than her. When she was a child, she had already known that using money to bribe eunuch to be close to emperor. After she lived in the palace, she could deal with a lot of complicated things in correct and experienced ways. Then, she gave a birth to a child who was the only son of her husband-Xian Feng emperor. She was a really clever woman that no other concubines could have babies for the emperor. Secondly, Empress Dowager Ci Xi could deal with things without hesitation. Before Xian Feng emperor dead, he told 9 ministers to control Ci Xis rights. However, Empress Dowager Ci Xi didnt afraid of them. She used the hatreds between the ministers to turn the scale. Finally, she took helm of the state and she controlled her son, which was called attended to state affairs. In addition, she usually deals with things without hesitation, such as 1898 Reform period. Thirdly, Empress Dowager Ci Xi ended feudal society in a quick way. The feudal society in China had lasted for more than 2000 years. It was too long and serious to China to develop capitalism, which made China poor and fall behind other countries in Qing Dynasty. However, Empress Dowager Ci Xi was a luxurious woman and she leaded a luxurious phenomenon around the country. She reduced the money of the government, which leaded to the feudal society in China was ended almost 30 years in advance. In the position of Qing government, Empress Dowager Ci Xi was a guilty person, but in the position of the development of history, she helped China to end the feudal society in a quick way. Fourthly, Ci Xis luxurious hobbies-the Chinese feast and Peking opera, which developed Chinese culture. She loved the two things and many foreigners were interested in imperial banquet. The Chinese feast finally fixed many different styles of cooking. Its unique in the world. She loved Peking Opera and she often heard opera in her palace. In this way, many foreigners could have chances to come into contact with Peking Opera. The secrets and culture of Peking Opera could be spread. So that, Empress Dowager Ci Xi made contributions to Chinese culture. Fifthly, hobbies of Empress Dowager Ci Xi improved the society in the process of modernization of China. Was Empress Dowager Ci Xi an old-fogy? If we find the answer from the Chinese history book, we may say she was, because she suppressed the Chinese reform. However, the time she was in power was a high communicated period with western countries. During this period, she certainly learned a lot from western countries. She imported many new things from foreign to China. Electric lights, automobiles, photos, movies and so on. We think that all of them were completed by courage from Empress Dowager Ci Xi, so we have to admit that she was a wise woman. At last, Empress Dowager Ci Xi brought us a famous world culture heritage-the Summer Palace. When we travelled in the Summer Palace, guiders usually told us that Empress Dowager Ci Xi spent the expense of navy in building the Summer Palace in1888, which leaded that China had failed in the Sino-Japanese War. Who knew that the Summer Palace would be a famous imperial garden where must be visited by foreigners. So, Empress Dowager Ci Xi was not only a guilty person all the time, she also had her ability and success. There is no perfect man or woman in the world. Anybody has good aspect meanwhile he or she has the bad side. No one is absolute bad or good. So, is Empress Dowager Ci Xi good or bad? Everyone has his or her own idea.

Changing Nutritional Requirements for Children

Changing Nutritional Requirements for Children HEALTH PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT UNIT Ubah A adan 1. The food for babies in the United Kingdom is normally set on particular guidelines, which must be followed in order for the babies to develop in a normal and healthy way. The First six months. Infant normally feed on breast milk or infant formula. For the first six months breast milk is most nutritious and highly recommended. It contains a unique mix of fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, lactose, amino acid, enzymes and others. Important factors that combine they make perfect food for babies, its nutritious and easy for digestion. It has every thing baby needs, Brain development, healthy growth and protection from illnesses. If the mother chooses not breastfeed the baby, best option available is infant formula. Introducing solid food to the baby should only start after six months. It’s recommended by health practitioners and also the government policy in the UK, but if the baby feels hungry so often weaning can start before six months but only with foods recommended by an infant nutritionist. There are foods which must be avoided at all cost for example: shellfish eggs fish liver nuts wheat and gluten seeds unpasteurised and soft cheese salt sugar honey and whole nuts 6 to 9 months When the weaning is started a baby’s diet should include the following types of foods: milk and dairy fruit and vegetables meat and fish egg and beans pasta and rice starchy foods There are many types of prepared baby foods and cereals that have been specially designed for babies, but these foods can also be easily prepared and pureed at home with the use of a food blender, frozen individually into ice cube trays and used as needed. 9 months + The recommended guidelines for servings of solid food portions at this age are: 2 servings per day of meat, fish, eggs or pulses 3-4 servings per day of fruits and vegetables 3-4 servings per day of potatoes, bread and rice Formula or breast milk can still be given along with healthy fruit and cereal snacks. VITAMINS The Department of Health advises that although children should get the required amount of vitamins from their food, they may be lacking in vitamin A, C and D which can be supplemented in the form of vitamin drops. Vitamin A: helps children to see in dim light, supports and strengthens the immune system, and ensures healthy skin is maintained. Vitamin C: helps with the absorption of iron, and supports the immune system. Vitamin D: helps to strengthen bones, and assists with the absorption of calcium. 2. TYPES OF FOOD THAT SHUOLD BE AVOIDED BY YOUNG CHILDREN There are many different food types which are considered to be unsuitable for babies and young children. Parents and childcare providers must be very careful the food that is cooked for the children, and the once that is ready made. SALT Babies don’t need salt. Their kidneys are too immature to cope with any added salt; even the small amount of salt can damage their kidneys. Therefore salt should never be added to any food that is cooked for a baby. The guidelines provided by the food standards Agency for salt consumption for children are: HONEY Honey contains bacteria which can produce toxin in a baby’s intestine leading to infant botulism which is a very serious illness. It’s best not to give babies honey until they over 1 year old. Honey is a sugar so avoiding it will also help to prevent tooth decay. SUGAR Baby doesn’t need sugar by avoiding it you will prevent tooth delay and unnecessary weight gain. Sugar causes tooth decay in young children and can be easily prevented. By avoiding sugary drinks and snakes you will help to prevent tooth decay. Children should be encouraged to drink milk and water. NUTS Whole nuts including peanuts should not be given to the children under the age of five, as they can choke on them. As long as there is no history of food allergies or other allergies in the baby’s family they can consume peanuts once they are six months old as long as they are crushed or grounded. LOW FAT FOODS Fat is an important source of calories and some vitamins for babies and young children. It’s better for babies and young children under 2 to have full fat milk, yogurts and cheeses. After the age of two; amount of fat in diet can be gradually decreased. EGGS Eggs can be given to children over the age of 6 months, yolks and whites should be well cooked to reduce the risk of salmonella infection. RAW SHELLFISH Raw shellfish can increase the risk of food poisoning and are considered to be potentially allergenic foods it also harbours salmonella bacteria. So it’s best to avoid it. SWORDFISH, SHARK AND MARLIN It is best to avoid these foods as the amount of mercury in these fish can affect a baby’s growing nervous system. 3. SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMEN AND CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS When children come together at meal or snack time everyone should be eating the same foods. However, there are some circumstances in which some children cannot eat the same foods. For example of some special dietary needs including: Sugar in all forms may be limited for a diabetic child. Fats and cholesterol may be limited for overweight children. Specific foods or additive may cause allergic reactions in some children. Cultural or religious preference may restrict specific foods. Any dietary needs should be identified and documented and it’s important that staffs are trained in the importance of sticking to these needs or restrictions. Some food allergies can be life threatening all staff should know the specific food or ingredient restrictions, possible consequences and symptoms of food reactions and recommended first aid. Any dietary requirements should be gained from parents and recorded and any food allergies documentation should be request from the child’s doctor. Some children in child care have cultural and religious food preferences the child care provider and the parents need to work together in order to make sure that children with especial dietary needs receive appreciate foods. Examples of some cultural and religion practice: When recording special dietary requirements, there are many types of information that should be documented for example: child’s name parents name and address emergency contact emergency instructions should ingestion of an allergic food occur necessary medication doctor or health professionals name address, telephone number parental and childcare provider signature In the case of emergency medication being required the childcare provider should have this information documented on a separate medical form and keep the medication in a locked container. A Child record form for a new child joining a home at child care setting with specific dietary requirement may look as followed: 4. CHILDHOOD CHRONIC DISEASES There are many health problems during infant and childhood, but mostly they are mild and they do not interfere with their daily life and development. For some children however chronic health conditions affect everyday life throughout their childhood, Including asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and cerebral palsy. 1. ASTHMA Asthma is a long term condition that can cause a cough, wheezing and breathlessness. The severity of the symptoms is different from person to person. Approximately 1 in 10 children being affected asthma in the UK. The cause of asthma is not fully understood, however trigger can bring symptoms of asthma, and anything that irritates the airways brings on symptoms of asthma. These are different from person to person and people with asthma may have several triggers. Triggers include house dust, animal fur, pollen, tobacco smoke and others. Asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways these are the small tubes called bronchi which carry air in and out of the lungs. If you have asthma the bronchi will be flamed and will be more sensitive than normal. Asthma may also affect children emotionally as the attacks may be frightening them. 2. DIABETES Diabetes is life long conditions that cause persons blood sugar level to become too high. In the UK approximately 2.8million people are affected by diabetes. There are two types of diabetes type 1 and type 2. *Type1 is usually diagnosed in adolescence and is controlled insulin injections. * Type 2 is usually diagnosed in adulthood and is controlled by diet and tablets. Symptoms common to both types of diabetes are weight loss, feeling very tired and feeling very thirsty and urinating frequency. 3. CYSTIC FIBROSIS Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition in which lungs and digestive system become clogged with the thick sticky mucus. Symptoms start in early childhood and include cough, chest infections and poor weight. There is no cure for cystic fibrosis so the aim of the treatment is to ease the symptoms and make the condition easier to live with. Treatments include therapies, diet, medication, exercise and physiotherapy to remove mucus from the lungs. 4. CEREBRAL PALSY Cerebral palsy is a general term covering a number of neurological conditions that effect a child’s movements and coordination. Neurological conditions affect the brain and nervous system. Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the brain which normally occurs before, during or soon after birth. It is estimated that 1 in every 400 children in UK is effected by Cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy can put a great deal of strain on the body which can cause problems in later life. There is no cure cerebral palsy but the many of treatment can help relieve symptoms and increase child’s independent and self-esteem. These include physiotherapy, occupational therapy and medications. GUIDED ACTIVITY https://osclinks.com/84 https://osclinks.com/85 https://osclinks.com/86 https://osclinks.com/87 https://osclinks.com/88 https://osclinks.com/89 https://osclinks.com/90 https://osclinks.com/91 https://osclinks.com/92 https://osclinks.com/93 https://osclinks.com/94

Springsteens The Ghost of Tom Joad relationship with Steinbecks Grape

In 1995, Bruce Springsteen produced an album titled â€Å"The Ghost of Tom Joad†. Its title track brings out a lot of ideas from John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel, The Grapes of Wrath. Migrant workers, as explained in chapter twenty three of The Grapes of Wrath, used music as a main source of entertainment. They would play the harmonica, the guitar, and the fiddle, while the other workers would dance and be jolly, despite how bad the work was that day. The instrumentals of the song are harmonica and acoustic guitar. This helps to bring out both the theme of the song and the ideas from the book. The seventh line of the song is â€Å"Families sleepin' in their cars in the southwest† (The Ghost of Tom Joad 1995). In the book, while the families were driving through the southwest to find better jobs in California, some families were only able to sleep in their cars. Most families could barely afford the cars they were traveling in, let alone a nice place to stay along their journey. The eighth line is, â€Å"No home no job no peace no rest† (The Ghost of Tom Joad 1995). These eight word phrase says a lot. The migrant workers had no home, at least not a stable one. This was because they had no steady job. They were never really at peace with themselves, for they could not forgive themselves for leaving their land in Oklahoma. They had trouble getting rest because they were always so hungry. This one line almost completely sums up the lives of the migrant workers characterized in this novel. The next two lines, â€Å"The highway is alive tonight, But nobody's kiddin' nobody about where it goes† (The Ghost of Tom Joad 1995), are talking about Route 66. This highway is the one that all of the Okies traveled on to get to Califo... ...e." (The Ghost of Tom Joad 1995) This final verse explains what Tom says when he is leaving the family so that they don’t have an extra mouth to feed. When he leaves, after killing a second man, he tells his mom that he plans to carry on Casy’s plans of unionization. He says that he will be everywhere that the migrant farm workers, his people, are starving and being treated unfairly. I believe it is obvious that Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath greatly influenced Bruce Springsteen’s The Ghost of Tom Joad. There is much evidence to prove it. Even the title of the song proves it. There is no way that u can say there is no connection between the two wonderful works of art. Works Consulted Springsteen, Bruce. "The Ghost of Tom Joad." By Bruce Springsteen. Rec. 1995. The Ghost of Tom Joad. Steinbeck, John. New York, New York: Penguin Classics, 1939.

The Mother Daughter Relationship in The Kitchen Gods Wife Essay

The Mother Daughter Relationship in The Kitchen God's Wife      Ã‚  Ã‚   Relationships mold people's thoughts and the way they live their lives. One very important relationship is the relationship between parents and their children. Parents are the first teachers of children. The most significant lesson one learns from them is love. When a baby is first born it instantly will feel love from the mother. A mother loves and nurtures her baby while it is still in her womb making the relationship between a mother and her child stronger than any other relationship. Only a woman can nurture her baby by using only her body. The bond between the mother and daughter is even more intense because they share the same femininity. A mother and daughter can bond like no other. Girls grow up looking up to their mother and wanting to resemble them when they grow up. Daughters seek their mother's to give them advice when they need help throughout their lives. When a girl is struck with a problem the first person she will turn to would be her mother . However some women are unable to have strong relationships with their mothers, this can be seen in then novel The Kitchen God's Wife by Amy Tan. Unfortunately Jiang Weili wasn't able to have a powerful relationship with her mother. Because of her mothers absence Jiang Weili wasn't able to find her own identity and isn't able to have a productive relationship with her daughter. Pearl feels alienated from her mother however, Jiang Weili only believes she is doing the best for her daughter. Pearl and Winnie prove that the mother daughter relationship is essential for a girl to become a woman. The lack of such a relationship is severely detrimental to a girl growing up.    Jiang We... ...gic comedy with a happy ending. The novel is a love story but not with a male and female but with a mother and her daughter.    Work Cited Chapman, Jeff and John D. Jorgenson, eds. "Tan, Amy." Contemporary Authors Vol.54. Detroit: Gale, 1997. Graham, Judith, ed. Current Biography Yearbook Vol. 1992, New York: The H.W Wilson Company, 1993 Gray, Paul. "The Joys and Sorrows of Amy Tan." Time Magazine 19 February, 2001:72-74 Hunter, Jeffery W. and Timothy J. White, eds. "Amy Tan 1952-  Ã‚  Ã‚   ." Contemporary Literary Criticism CLC 120. Farmington Hills: Gale, 1999 Kim-Chan, Hyung, ed. "Amy Tan (1952-  Ã‚  Ã‚   )." Distinguished Asian American: Biographical dictionary. Westport: Greenwood, 1999. Kramer, Barbara. Amy Tan, author of The Joy Luck Club. Spring Field: Enslow, 1996 Tan, Amy. The Kitchen God's Wife, New York: Ivy Books, 1991

causes world war 1 :: essays research papers

It can be said that the First world war was caused by the alliance system, which has a very weak argument, the alliance system had very little to do with the first world war, it did to some extent cause the size of the war, but its argument in my opinion is very weak. Many other causes lean towards the side against the alliance system causing the first world war, which I believe is credible. The alliance system did cause the size of the war as it caused countries to be pulled in. First made in the Franco- Prussian war. Alliances held countries to some sort of standard and normally required something of each participant. The triple alliance signed by Germany, Austria-Hungary and Italy bound each country to give military support in a case of war or â€Å"if any one member of the alliance was at war with any two great powers other members would come to aid†. When the entente was made it did not intend for reciprocal arrangements for support, though it did allow wide variety of arrangements negotiations to take place, one negotiation would have been of support in war. But by 1911 A.J.P Taylor said â€Å"the entente was in the process of disintegration.† and was not seen as strong, because of the triple alliance Germany came to Austria’s aid willingly, which plunged Germany into war. When Germany declared war on France and Russia, Austria- Hungary was pulled into that battle to fulfill their part of the alliance. This had four major powers fighting. Alliances pulled countries into war because if they were not followed a threat of retaliation would be expected. On the other hand. Other causes include Nationalists wanting freedom, causing the Slavs to ultimately assassinate the duke and causing hate towards to Austrian empire. Nationalism was also a major cause of war, it caused problems especially in Austria- Hungary and France. This same nationalism had brought Germany together a one country and who took Alsace- Lorraine from the French in 1870- 1871 in the Franco- Prussian war, and in recent times the Moroccan crisis which left the French with hatred as an attitude towards the Germans, the thought of revenge was also one that was favored by the French nationalists. While this unrest was happening in France, nationalism was also causing problems in the areas of Austria- Hungary, over here the nationalists were slavists

Lifestyles Theory Essay

The â€Å"lifestyle/exposure theory† was developed by Hindelang, Gottfredson, and Garofalo (1978:243; e.g., see Goldstein, 1994; Maxfield, 1987:275; Miethe, Stafford, and Long, 1987:184). This model of criminal events links victimization risks to the daily activities of specific individuals (Goldstein, 1994:54; Kennedy and Forde, 1990:208).Lifestyles are patterned, regular, recurrent, prevalent, or â€Å"routine activities† (Robinson, 1997b; also see Cohen and Felson, 1979; Felson, 1994; Hindelang, Gottfredson, and Garofalo, 1978:241; Garofalo, 1987:24, 39). Lifestyles consist of the activities that people engage in on a daily basis, including both obligatory and discretionary activities. LeBeau and Coulson (1996:3; also see LeBeau and Corcoran, 1990) assert that:The former are activities that must be undertaken while the latter because they are pursued by choice are called discretionary. ‘An activity is discretionary if there is a greater chance of choice than constraint, and obligatory if there is a greater degree of constraint than choice† (Chapin, 1974:38). Both activities have a duration, position in time, a place in a sequence of events, and a fixed location or path in space (Chapin, 1974:37).Kennedy and Forde (1990:208) summarized the lifestyle/exposure model as â€Å"lifestyle, encompassing differences in age, sex, marital status, family income, and race, influences daily routines and vulnerability to criminal victimization, resulting in the fact that â€Å"Victimization is not evenly distributed randomly across space and time — there are high-risk locations and high-risk time periods† (Garofalo, 1987:26). â€Å"Lifestyle patterns influence (a) the amount of exposure to places and times with varying risks of victimization, and (b) the prevalence of associations with others who are more or less likely to commit crimes.† A similar theoretical model developed by Kennedy and Forde (1990: 209, 211) suggested that background characteristics and daily activities affect time spent in risky lifestyles which lead to dangerous results (i.e., criminal victimization). In their words, â€Å"demographic and lifestyle variables . . . can be interpreted as contributing to more or less ‘time spent in risky activities’ and indirectly contributing to ‘dangerous results'† (Kennedy and Forde, 1990:209).Numerous studies have shown relationships between daily activities of individuals and their likelihood of criminal victimization (Riley, 1987:340). In other words, what people do and how they behave places them at either more or less risk of criminal victimization (Maxfield, 1987; Miethe, Stafford, and Long, 1987; Sampson and Wooldredge, 1987).According to Sampson and Wooldredge (1987:372): â€Å"An active lifestyle . . . appears to influence victimization risk by increasing exposure of persons and homes to potential offenders while guardianship is low.† Yet, an active lifestyle may not necessarily increase one’s risk of criminal victimization. For example, if there is a great deal of activity by residents, neighbors, or passers by around a residence, then this activity may serve to decrease the likelihood that a property offender will victimize a residence. In fact, many property offenders are non-confrontational and want to avoid being seen by residents, neighbors, or passers by (Cromwell, Olson, and Avary, 1991; Tunnell, 1994; Wright and Decker, 1994). Whether an active lifestyle leads to higher or lower risks for criminal victimization may depend on several factors. It might depend on the nature of one’s activities — i.e., whether they are patterned and predictable to offenders, or sporadic and less predictable. This issue has not been settled by academic research, although the majority of lifestyle research suggests that active lifestyles increase risks for criminal victimization (Robinson, 1997b). Part of why there is some uncertainty about this issue is because when relationships between lifestyles and crime are studied, dependent variables typically consist of some composite measure of crime (see Robinson, 1997b; Thompson and Fisher, 1996). Whether active lifestyles lead to higher or lower risks for crime might depend on the specific type of crime that is being studied. Since composite measures of crime have been utilized by researchers rather than distinct measures of individual crime types (Bennett, 1991; Maxfield, 1987; Thompson and Fisher, 1996), it is nearly impossible to differentiate the effects of peoples’ lifestyles on different types of criminal victimization. This is problematic, because lifestyle/exposure theory is â€Å"crime specific† (Bennett, 1991:158; Thompson and Fisher, 1996). For example, crimes such as burglary and theft may create different opportunities for offenders: For a burglary to occur, an offender has to break and enter a home to get the desired goods. An offender who commits a larceny, on the other hand, may ride off with a bicycle left out on the lawn or steal something from the porch of a home. These examples demonstrate that the opportunity structure for burglary and larceny are different and therefore the two crimes must be examined separately in research (Thompson and Fisher, 1996:52; also see Gottfredson, 1984; Maxfield, 1987; Sampson and Wooldredge, 1987).Research examining the relationship between lifestyles and crime should avoid pooling or aggregating crime types, because examining the effects of lifestyles on composite measures of crime leads to inconsistent findings (Thompson and Fisher, 1996:53).