Topic is enclosed in the description Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Topic is enclosed in the description - Essay Example bes revolves around situations when the sovereign state needs to call upon the strength of its citizens to provide the state and its people the protection it needs. In dangerous situations, a rational egoist would most likely not risk his life for the protection of the sovereign state. However, if such protection is not provided by the citizens, then the state will revert to a state of nature. And, our lives would be forfeit if the orders of the state are not followed and protection is not provided to the state by the rational egoist. This paper shall be a critical analysis paper on Hobbes’ previously mentioned statement. This analysis shall clarify the position being examined, shall elaborate arguments for or against the position in question, shall carefully assess the adequacy and strength of the arguments by considering possible responses, counter-arguments, or counter-examples, and offer this student’s own assessment of where the arguments for and against the position being considered leave us – and is we should accept, reject, or remain neutral regarding this orientation or position. The dilemma in Hobbes’ statement is on how to bring consistency into his argument or if consistency is even possible in his statement. If consistency is to be brought to his statement, is a state of nature inevitable? Hobbes seems to be advocating that a rational man is not obligated to render service to the state in order to help protect sovereign interests. The dilemma in Hobbes statement can be phrased in the question – why would a rational egoist surrender his sovereignty in the state of nature? (Stanford University Press â€Å"Social Order†). A rational egoist would work through the logic of risking his life and limb in order to protect the state. He would deliberate and ask himself if his sacrifice would be worth the imposed danger on his life. The egoist in him would do everything to avoid danger and pain. He would be thinking of ways to save himself,

Perspectives on conflicts and disputes Essay Example for Free

Perspectives on conflicts and disputes Essay Legal positivists postulate that individuals are intrinsically greedy, which is the main root of conflicts among them. Thomas Hobbes posits that beings are doomed to dispute because of their primeval nature, which is deduced to selfishness that causes them to struggle to maintain their social status. In this milieu, Charles Darwin furthered this stance by conjecturing that species’ selfish ways are embedded to their genes because life is nothing but a struggle for survival. To curtail this selfishness, law is of necessity because only it provides rules and restrictions to protect the interest and upholds the rights of each individual. The advancement on the epistemological aspect of conflict starts at the ontogenetic condition of the specie and continues in its phylogenetic condition. Ontogenetic state means that the being develops from the conception of its genes up to the end of its life cycle. Conversely, phylogenetic event transpires in between of the beings conception and death, meaning the individual develops throughout the time it exists. Therefore, Homo sapiens understanding of conflict’s anatomy begins at phylogenetic level and its full comprehension happens when Homo sapiens reaches the end of ontogenetic level. The epistemic acquisition of conflicts thrives in human playground or to events and settings that necessitates human actions and interactions. Conflicts undergo a succession that perpetually exists within the life-world of beings such as their surroundings, environment, politics, business, science, etc. Having drawn this conclusion, we can infer that in existing innumerable of conflicts there is a myriad of ways of resolving it. Conflict is impossible to annihilate because of the following reasons: first, it thrives at the very heart of human volition, which is the source of human selfishness, and second, it has been part of human psyche to transfer it from one generation to the other, which resulted to a vicious cycle within the epistemic system of conflict. And throughout history, individuals have learned the art of conflict, and some even mastered the usage of conflict in their everyday lives. Handling conflict is very vital to human existence because it can totally change the landscape of one’s own existence. The coming of twentieth century proved that beings are becoming more and more aware of how to comprehend the nitty-gritty details of conflict, and what are the effective means of handling conflicts. There is no panacea that will medicate continuous existence of conflict, but humans strive to find a better solution to satisfy the needs of a prominent conflict because they are challenged by the difficulty it embodies. It must be noted that conflict is getting more complicated as time passes by, which means that better solution must be concocted to counter-attack more severe problem. The vastness of the universe implies a far more serious condition because the contingency of the world can necessitate an unknown conflict, which greatly needs a novel constructs or to put it simply, man has to go out of the box to resolve a new or unknown prevailing issue. This kind of conflict serves a greater challenge to human reason because it is something that our very reason has not yet encountered. The enigmatic characteristic of such new issues demands transcendence in our rationality. Using Karl Marx philosophical stance, we can infer that conflict has a crisis-response blueprint or a thesis-antithesis pattern. Multiplicity of conflicts has evolved into a more complex manner within the continuum of time, as well as the individual effort to manage and to elucidate it. In order for a human specie to understand the mechanism of conflict, he/she must know its intrinsic values, and in doing so, he/she can decipher appropriate solution for different conflicts. The epicentre of conflict lies on the innate nature of man and its solution lies on the rules that have been drawn to curb the natural operation of human volition. Development is the life-source of conflict, ironically speaking, the more we formulate means to make life easier the more we recognize new conflicts. In the primeval condition of humanity the only existing problem is the source of food, and then it further develops into the issue of territory, and finally when men resolved these issues another conflict sprouted when they realized the significance of property. The birth of science and technology intensified the man’s struggle to annihilate conflicts. Science and technology successfully medicated the prevailing conflicts of our society but it also paved for the birth of novel conflicts, and in some condition aggravated an existing issue. As of this modern day period, science and technology provides a myriad of solutions in human crises in the field of poverty, education and medicine. But it also exacerbates war between nations because technology brings forth weaponry of mass destruction. Man by Nature is Selfish According to Richard Dawkins introduction in his book The Selfish Gene, man’s attitude is greatly affected and designed by our genetic composition. Our genes made us. We animals exist for their preservation and are nothing more than their throwaway survival machines. The world of the selfish gene is one of savage competition, ruthless exploitation, and deceit. But what of the acts of apparent altruism found in nature the bees who commit suicide when they sting to protect the hive, or the birds who warn the flock of an approaching hawk? Do they contravene the fundamental law of gene selfishness? At the onset of Dawkins book, he clearly stipulated that all species either man or animals are machines fashioned by their genetic design. As mentioned earlier, Hobbes believes that men are naturally born selfish, and it is the same in Dawkins case. According to him, the selfishness of man is deeply embedded in our genes, and due to this we must learn the virtue of generosity and altruism because if we failed to do so, men will perpetually live on catastrophic state. Dawkins stance must not be misconstrued as an ethical justification of human behaviour or a moral treatise that must be followed since his insight is loud and clear; that men are selfish because of their genes, no more, no less. Having said this, it is a challenge for us to control it if not exterminate it because we are the only species who can desired to do it. In the furtherance of man’s selfish genes, Dawkins incorporated Darwin’s biological conjecture that man is doomed for the battle of its own survival. However, the former believes that survival is not controlled by man; rather man is machinated by genes to strive for its own survival. The genes are the building blocks of human existence, it is the one that created us, and these genes even dictates how we should reason out. Men are innately selfish for the sole reason of life preservation or prolongation. They are willing to do everything just to ensure that their interests are satisfied. Satisfaction of interest is tantamount to the validation of one existence. This is the embodiment of human existence, chaotic and full of struggle. The machination of individual is further elucidated by Dawkins through his explanation of gene mechanism. Dawkins adopted G. C. Williams’ definition of genes, which stated that gene any portion of chromosomal material that potentially last for enough generations to serve as a unit of natural selection . The deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of man thrives within our body. It must be noted that DNA is not contained in a particular body parts rather it is widely disseminated within our cells. Approximately speaking, a human body is made of a thousand million cells, and each of these cells contains an exact blueprint of all DNA in our body. The significance of the ontogenetic control of genes is its capability of self-continuation and self-propagation, meaning, genes can preserve itself under the condition of numerous struggles. The survival of genes lies on the efficiency and power of our corporeal body, which they inhabit for its own development. The existence of each human species is not everlasting, it is ephemeral. Dawkins uses an analogy wherein each card in a deck represents the genes. According to him, when a deck of card are being shuffled they undergo a process of survival. And this process of survival is exactly the mechanism of genes wherein every time they are shuffled a gene only assumes the position of another gene, instead of being destroyed, and after the shuffling process genes are still genes that continue to march on. Dawkins draws a conclusion from this analogy, which stated that genes are basically the replicators and we are their machinery for survival. And when we have fulfilled our function we are automatically became useless, but gene will perpetuate its existence because it is a denizen of geological time . In view of that, Dawkins also posits that gene is the basic unit of survival because it competes for its own preservation against their alleles for a slot in the chromosome. With this picture, we can infer that genes struggle for survival of future generation in the gene pool in the expense of its own alleles. Therefore, selfishness is indeed the fundamental foundation of selfishness. The genes are the master programmers, and they are programming for their lives. They are judged according to the success of their programs in copying with all the hazards that life throws at their survival machines, and the judge is the ruthless judge of the court of survival . This phrase only strengthened Dawkins claims that man is nothing but a machinery of genes for its own survival. As pointed earlier, man is different from other specie because a human being has a will power and reason, meaning man can go against the dictate of its gene i. e. a person can choose not to reproduce. In addition, reason has its own domain wherein it has the capability to manipulate habitual operation of gene machine, to envisage what lies beyond its own future, and most significantly, to act according to its own course of nature. Because of rationality, gene machinery is able to be in command of outlining what direction individuals must follow. Rationality can curtail the dictate of gene, meaning, a person can transcend his/her selfishness and reach the condition of being generous and altruistic. The emancipation of man from his selfish nature is only possible if and only if he succumb himself to an agreement. Being established that human beings to be innately selfish also indicate that they are self-regulating. But generosity and altruism can only be actualized if the self-regulating beings surrender their self-regulating prowess. Selfishness is the anti-thesis of the said virtues but because of rationality human beings will submit to an agreement to satisfy the insufficiency of self-regulation. The universal antidote for this insufficiency is the construction of law through its rules. In the vein of Hobbes social contract theory, man must give in to an agreement to restrain his natural tendencies, but he must only surrender to a contract if and only if others will surrender to it in equal footing. But in the provision of rules it is a prerequisite to understand the intricate schema of conflict. The Role of Rules In Using Conflict Theory, Otomar Bartos and Paul Wehr claim that in the wide range of epistemic knowledge regarding conflicts there are two guiding principles that must be comprehended: one, to concentrate on general theories, and second, to carry out these theories on a simplified fashion. The former necessitate an application of theories to innumerable types of conflicts. While the latter focuses on the specific arguments or application of the former. One good example of general theories is elucidation of poverty in the third world countries using the framework of dialectical materialism by Marx. If we convert this general theory into a simplified manner, one must look at the specific causes of poverty such as shortage of natural resources, lack of capital, misallocation of funds, graft and corruption, and the likes. If one is successful in outlining the appropriate general theories in an existing conflict, then he/she translates these theories in its simplified form. And if this will be the case, then concoction of rules will be easier. Rules must embody the principle of the entire society and it must cater to the needs of its citizenry. Rules can be perceived in two ways: Kantian or Utilitarian. Immanuel Kant posits that rules must be made in the context of universal imperative, meaning it must not be used as means of advancing one’s interest rather it must be created for its own sake and for the goodness and betterment of humanity. In lieu to this, Utilitarian advocates such as J. S. Mill argues that rules must be conceptualized in the essence of achieving the goodness of the majority and resulting to the production of best consequences. Kant postulates that a rule must be encompassing and must not reside on the band wagon of majority votes because it contradicts the reason of man, and because number of votes does not imply truth. For example, killing another being is morally unjustified is a universal rule because it affirms the importance of life, which is true to all beings. Conversely, J. S. Mill believes that rules are justified if and only if the â€Å"greatest happiness for the greatest number of people† is reached. But it must be noted that utilitarian theory also entails a qualitative measurement through the intensity and duration of happiness, meaning, it must have greater impact to the society and its intensity must last for the longest time if not forever. For example, death penalty can be either permissible or impermissible depending on the context of society, but the point is, morally justifiability of death penalty lies on majority votes since it can serve the interest of more people. There are voluminous conflicting issues regarding these theories because both of them are in extreme opposition. Kant rejects utilitarianism because it does not uphold a consensual quest for universal truth and it only served the interests of the majority of population in a given social context. On the other hand, utilitarian advocates refute the Kantian theories because of its impossibility or tedious system in knowing the universal truth. But in the modern day period, utilitarian theories are more adopted than Kantian theory because it is more feasible in creating rules for present conflicts and for future conflicts. In most cases, before a rule can be ratified it must undergo an election and must meet certain number of votes to quantify its validity i. e. three-fourths of the voting population or majority votes. But it must be noted that most rules fashioned in utilitarian perspective must follow a universal precept so that it will not contradict the constitution of a specific nation. For example, murder is universally not accepted, which one of the reason why death penalty is not easy to endorse because it contradicts a universal precept, though some countries provided an reasonable exemption on the matter, killing will still be universal precept that they must consider. Rules main goal is to promote the interest of every individual as possible as it can, and to restrict the selfish ways of human beings, in order to maintain an ordered society. Because of this guideline, law has delineated the scope of public and private sphere to guarantee the possibility of generosity and altruism. Public sphere is far more superior to the private sphere because the former promotes national interest and the welfare of the entire populace. Law provides countless rules to reinforce the supremacy of public sphere, which is the apparent implication on the significance of reason. Rules are the product of our reason to rebel against the dictate of our selfish genes. In the furtherance of rules, justice must be encapsulated in its formulation to ensure an effective implementation of it.

Evolution Essays - Is Creation Science Really Science? -- Argumentativ

Is "Creation Science" Really Science?      Ã‚   "Creation science" fails two important tests of science: it neither makes predictions nor makes claims that can be empirically verified. It simply makes proclamations by faith. Furthermore, creation scientists have yet to offer any scientific evidence that proves the case of creationism; their efforts are almost entirely spent critiquing apparent contradictions within evolution. Finally, the scientific credentials of the creation scientists are what we might charitably describe as suspicious.    In the last few decades, a movement called "creation science" has gained considerable influence among Christian fundamentalists. According to Henry Morris, director of the Institute for Creation Research, their studies require "no reliance upon biblical revelation," but utilize "only scientific data to support and expound the creation model." (1) Specifically, this model is the literal interpretation of Genesis as it happened 6,000 years ago. Discoveries in both geology and biology were already deconstructing this model by the mid-19th century, and by the turn of the 20th century most fundamentalists had simply conceded the scientific fight to evolutionists. In recent times, however, creationists have become determined to resurrect their scientific case, and fight against evolutionists on their own ground.    By presenting the creation model as science, creationists have re-raised the question of what "science" is. Philosophers of science have worked out a commonly accepted list of criteria (produced well outside the debate between creationists and evolutionists). To be accepted as science, a theory must have predictive value, must be coherent (or internally consistent), must ... ...g Science by Phillip Kitcher and The Blind Watchmaker by Richard Dawkins. These books address specific and frequent creationist arguments and show how they are fallacious. Another thorough deconstruction of creation science can be found in the talk.origins FAQs.          Endnotes: 1. Henry Morris, "Tenets for Creationism," Acts and Facts Series, No. 85, July 1980. 2. Tom McIver, Anti-Evolution (Baltimore: John Hopkins University Press, 1992). 3. Andy Peters, "Welcome to talk.origins!" http://earth.ics.uci.edu:8080/faqs/faq-welcome.html . 4. Eugenie Scott and Henry Cole, Quat. Rev. Biol. 60, (1985), p. 21. 5. A list of suspicious credentials at the Institute for Creation Research, along with other examples of blatant dishonesty, can be found at http://earth.ics.uci.edu:8080/origins/faqs-creationists.html    Evolution Essays - Is Creation Science Really Science? -- Argumentativ Is "Creation Science" Really Science?      Ã‚   "Creation science" fails two important tests of science: it neither makes predictions nor makes claims that can be empirically verified. It simply makes proclamations by faith. Furthermore, creation scientists have yet to offer any scientific evidence that proves the case of creationism; their efforts are almost entirely spent critiquing apparent contradictions within evolution. Finally, the scientific credentials of the creation scientists are what we might charitably describe as suspicious.    In the last few decades, a movement called "creation science" has gained considerable influence among Christian fundamentalists. According to Henry Morris, director of the Institute for Creation Research, their studies require "no reliance upon biblical revelation," but utilize "only scientific data to support and expound the creation model." (1) Specifically, this model is the literal interpretation of Genesis as it happened 6,000 years ago. Discoveries in both geology and biology were already deconstructing this model by the mid-19th century, and by the turn of the 20th century most fundamentalists had simply conceded the scientific fight to evolutionists. In recent times, however, creationists have become determined to resurrect their scientific case, and fight against evolutionists on their own ground.    By presenting the creation model as science, creationists have re-raised the question of what "science" is. Philosophers of science have worked out a commonly accepted list of criteria (produced well outside the debate between creationists and evolutionists). To be accepted as science, a theory must have predictive value, must be coherent (or internally consistent), must ... ...g Science by Phillip Kitcher and The Blind Watchmaker by Richard Dawkins. These books address specific and frequent creationist arguments and show how they are fallacious. Another thorough deconstruction of creation science can be found in the talk.origins FAQs.          Endnotes: 1. Henry Morris, "Tenets for Creationism," Acts and Facts Series, No. 85, July 1980. 2. Tom McIver, Anti-Evolution (Baltimore: John Hopkins University Press, 1992). 3. Andy Peters, "Welcome to talk.origins!" http://earth.ics.uci.edu:8080/faqs/faq-welcome.html . 4. Eugenie Scott and Henry Cole, Quat. Rev. Biol. 60, (1985), p. 21. 5. A list of suspicious credentials at the Institute for Creation Research, along with other examples of blatant dishonesty, can be found at http://earth.ics.uci.edu:8080/origins/faqs-creationists.html   

Florida Should Legalize Euthanasia :: Free Essay Writer

Florida Should Legalize Euthanasia Florida should legalize euthanasia and I offer the following plan. The way Florida would legalize euthanasia should be by setting up a set of professional doctors who could examine all cases in which a person or an ill patients family request euthanasia due to extreme pain or an incurable disease. The doctors could examine these people and if they find there is no way other than the use of machines 24-hours a day to keep these people alive they will allow the doctor of the patient to assist in suicide or in better terms freeing an immense pain and agony. The benefits from legalizing euthanasia in Florida would be the health care spent to keep many of the people who live on machines from terminally or incurable diseases would be saved, many families would not have to watch there family member die slowly, and many stories like Sue Rodriguez's would never be. In the first place, health care on people with incurable or deadly diseases cannot be paid by many people because of no medical insurance according to Euthanasia questions by the IAETF. The government jumps in and pays for the treatment and care. This could be replaced in incurable or agonizing pain situations with the better and cheaper treatment of death. Next, not all family life is harmonious, and underlying pathology can often be exacerbated by the stresses of a family member's terminal illness bring says an article in Law Medicine & Health Care of 1992. If euthanasia is legalized the family members of a patient could sleep peacefully knowing that they have been "mercied" and died easily and with little pain instead of being kept alive by a machine or dying slowly and painfully from an incurable disease. Finally, let me tell you a true story from Vess Fast Access TO Information On Euthanasia, about a 31-year old mother named Sue Rodriguez. Sue Rodriguez was dying slowly of the incurable Lou Gehrig's disease. She lived several years with the knowledge that the disease would one by one waste away her muscles until the point while still conscious the lack of muscles would choke her to death. She begged the courts to allow her and her doctor to choose the moment of her death instead of the inspicable pain of being choked to death. The court refused to mercy her and she lived in terror every day. Every morning she would wake up wondering if this is the day she would be choked to death maybe while her children watch. In February 1994, Sue Rodriguez died. Florida Should Legalize Euthanasia :: Free Essay Writer Florida Should Legalize Euthanasia Florida should legalize euthanasia and I offer the following plan. The way Florida would legalize euthanasia should be by setting up a set of professional doctors who could examine all cases in which a person or an ill patients family request euthanasia due to extreme pain or an incurable disease. The doctors could examine these people and if they find there is no way other than the use of machines 24-hours a day to keep these people alive they will allow the doctor of the patient to assist in suicide or in better terms freeing an immense pain and agony. The benefits from legalizing euthanasia in Florida would be the health care spent to keep many of the people who live on machines from terminally or incurable diseases would be saved, many families would not have to watch there family member die slowly, and many stories like Sue Rodriguez's would never be. In the first place, health care on people with incurable or deadly diseases cannot be paid by many people because of no medical insurance according to Euthanasia questions by the IAETF. The government jumps in and pays for the treatment and care. This could be replaced in incurable or agonizing pain situations with the better and cheaper treatment of death. Next, not all family life is harmonious, and underlying pathology can often be exacerbated by the stresses of a family member's terminal illness bring says an article in Law Medicine & Health Care of 1992. If euthanasia is legalized the family members of a patient could sleep peacefully knowing that they have been "mercied" and died easily and with little pain instead of being kept alive by a machine or dying slowly and painfully from an incurable disease. Finally, let me tell you a true story from Vess Fast Access TO Information On Euthanasia, about a 31-year old mother named Sue Rodriguez. Sue Rodriguez was dying slowly of the incurable Lou Gehrig's disease. She lived several years with the knowledge that the disease would one by one waste away her muscles until the point while still conscious the lack of muscles would choke her to death. She begged the courts to allow her and her doctor to choose the moment of her death instead of the inspicable pain of being choked to death. The court refused to mercy her and she lived in terror every day. Every morning she would wake up wondering if this is the day she would be choked to death maybe while her children watch. In February 1994, Sue Rodriguez died.

Global Warming and its Effects on Society Essay

Global warming or climate change is defined as any substantial change in the earth’s climate that can go on for an extended period of time. Global warming can cause an increase in the average temperature of the lower atmosphere. It can have different causes, but the one reason pinpointed as its cause is human interference, particularly the release of excessive amounts of greenhouse gases (EPA, 2006 cited in YeSeul Kim et al). There are several greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), water vapor, and fluorinated gases which act like a greenhouse on earth. Since the situation is that there are more greenhouse gases, then there would be a bigger chance of the heat trapped in the earth’s atmosphere. The earth cannot function in its present state if there are no occurring greenhouse gases, such as CO2, CH4, and water vapor. This means that without greenhouse gases, there will be no heat trapped in atmosphere, thus, the earth will become very cold. (NASA, 2002 as cited in YeSeul Kim et al). Scientists say that they have confirmed that climate change is caused by human activity (Scientists say global warming is undeniable). They have even presented their findings to the American Association for the Advancement of Science in Washington. Evidence is that when one looks at the oceans and the melting of the Arctic ice, it leaves no room for one to doubt that global warming is indeed happening today. It was even revealed by Tim Barnett of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography that new computer models that are able to look into ocean temperatures demonstrate the clearest sign that global warming is already happening (Scientists say global warming is undeniable). Scientists like Dr. Barnett say in no uncertain terms that â€Å"the real place to look is in the ocean. † His team has conducted numerous temperature readings made by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in order to calculate steady ocean warming. This report was published after the United Nations Kyoto Protocol composed of 141-nation environmental pact. The US team made use of solar warming and volcanic warming, in order to account for the measurements made. Even observing animals lead these scientists to conclude that there are clear effects on animals. Other researchers found clear effects on climate and animals. Ruth Curry of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution revealed that melting ice is now already changing the water cycle, which in turn affects ocean currents and then finally, the climate. There are also droughts happening in the west and in Greenland’s ice cap which is composed of ice enough to raise sea levels by seven meters (Scientists say global warming is undeniable). A recent documentary on UK Channel 4 entitled â€Å"The Great Global Warming Swindle† challenged the political view that global warming is caused by man-made factors. However, the movie says that the sun that is responsible for the current changes in the Earth’s temperature. The film shows the many opinions of scientists and climate experts that spur a growing dissent to the man-made theory. But these are all theories. Scientists have reminded us that the Sun determines our seasons, and has a bigger impact on the climate. German and Swiss scientists reveal that there is an increase in radiation from the sun that results in the present climate change. (Marshall). There are also researches saying that global warming is a lie which is propagated by the media. They reckon that the temperature estimates of past climates are just estimates. These have been estimated by scientists who try to prove that global warming exists. Some still maintain that global warming is just another conspiracy to bring Americans down (Global Warming: The Great Lie). In the end, the more important thing to remember is how to champion the environment when it is changing due to the global warming especially when there are confusing information about the real status of global warming and how people can cope up with it. (All Global Warming is Local-The Politics and Science of Regional Climate Impacts). Most of the critical issues that global warming involve is how to prepare for these climate changes. The U. N. ’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis, Summary for Policymakers which is mainly a political document. Media is using this to gear up more sentiments among the people. (Bender, 2007). This is supposedly being edited to conform to the political agenda of the UN politicians. The document states that â€Å"Changes made after acceptance by the Working Group or the Panel shall be those necessary to ensure consistency with the Summary for Policymakers or the Overview Chapter. † And whether one likes it or not, the â€Å"continued rapid cooling of the earth since WWII is in accord with the increase in global air pollution associated with industrialization, mechanization, urbanization and exploding population†. (Reid Bryson, â€Å"Global Ecology; Readings towards a rational strategy for Man, 1971 as cited in Bender). WORKS CITED All Global Warming is Local-The Politics and Science of Regional Climate Impacts. Nov. 12, 2007. Retrieved January 2, 2008 at: http://www. desmogblog. com/all-global-warming-is-local-the-politics-and- science-of-regional-climate-impacts Bender, John. Man-Made Global Warming Is Politics Not Science. Etherzone. Fen. 12, 2007. Retrieved January 2, 2008 at: http://www. prisonplanet. com/articles/february2007/130207Warming. htm Global Warming: The Great Lie. Retrieved January 2, 2008 at: http://www. geocities. com/northstarzone/GLOBAL. html Marshall, Andrew. Global Warming: A Convenient Lie. Global Research. March 15, 2007. Retrieved January 2, 2008 at: http://www. globalresearch. ca/index. php? context=viewArticle&code=20070315& articleId=5086 Scientists say global warming is undeniable. ABC News Online. Retrieved January 2, 2008 at: http://www. abc. net. au/news/newsitems/200502/s1306233. htm YeSeul Kim, Erika Granger, Katie Puckett, Cankutan Hasar, and Leif Francel Global Warming: Definition. Retrieved January 2, 2008 at:

Free Essays on Famous Black Americans

Famous Black Americans During the month of February we focus our attention on famous black Americans as we celebrate black history month. When I think of them many come to mind. That makes it hard to choose just three from the powerful list. After reading several biographies the three that stuck out in my mind were Dred Scott, Harriet Tubman, Halle Berry. Dred Scott is known for suing for his freedom. According to the Missouri Compromise when his master traveled to Illinois (free state) for four years as an army surgeon, he brought Scott with him and Scott was suppose to be free. The court ruled that residence in a free state did not automatically make a slave free. In the meantime, Dr.Emerson (his master) died and his wife became Scott’s owner. She remarried abolitionist Calvin C. Chaffe of Massachusetts. He did not want to be known as a slave owner so Scott tried to bring his suit in federal court, out the Supreme Court decided against Scott because he was black and definitely not a citizen of Missouri. (his hometown) As set out by the Constitution, he had no rights in federal courts, temporary residence in a free state did not make a slave free and the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional. This limited the power of congress to include slavery from any Northwest Territories that would subsequently apply for admission in the Union. The daughter of Harriet Greene and Benjamin Rass, who were not permitted to marry legally under the law s of slavery, Harriet Tubman lived a brutal childhood. She was often referred to as â€Å"stupid† and received standard whippings regarly. At 13 she was injured by her master, and as a result suffered from occasional blackouts for the rest of her life. At about age 25 she and her brothers planned an escape, but her brothers backed out at the last minute and left Tubman, not being able to read or write the leader of about 300 slaves escaping for freedom. Now she is referred to as the â€Å"conductor... Free Essays on Famous Black Americans Free Essays on Famous Black Americans Famous Black Americans During the month of February we focus our attention on famous black Americans as we celebrate black history month. When I think of them many come to mind. That makes it hard to choose just three from the powerful list. After reading several biographies the three that stuck out in my mind were Dred Scott, Harriet Tubman, Halle Berry. Dred Scott is known for suing for his freedom. According to the Missouri Compromise when his master traveled to Illinois (free state) for four years as an army surgeon, he brought Scott with him and Scott was suppose to be free. The court ruled that residence in a free state did not automatically make a slave free. In the meantime, Dr.Emerson (his master) died and his wife became Scott’s owner. She remarried abolitionist Calvin C. Chaffe of Massachusetts. He did not want to be known as a slave owner so Scott tried to bring his suit in federal court, out the Supreme Court decided against Scott because he was black and definitely not a citizen of Missouri. (his hometown) As set out by the Constitution, he had no rights in federal courts, temporary residence in a free state did not make a slave free and the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional. This limited the power of congress to include slavery from any Northwest Territories that would subsequently apply for admission in the Union. The daughter of Harriet Greene and Benjamin Rass, who were not permitted to marry legally under the law s of slavery, Harriet Tubman lived a brutal childhood. She was often referred to as â€Å"stupid† and received standard whippings regarly. At 13 she was injured by her master, and as a result suffered from occasional blackouts for the rest of her life. At about age 25 she and her brothers planned an escape, but her brothers backed out at the last minute and left Tubman, not being able to read or write the leader of about 300 slaves escaping for freedom. Now she is referred to as the â€Å"conductor...

History of homosexuality essays

History of homosexuality essays In the survey Other Times, Other Customs, the author explains that there is a enormous variation in human sexual practices, in both the activites that were allowed and the concepts used to make sense of the them. During the course of the survey, the author touches base on four major components of how homosexual behavior, in certain societies, may have been institutionalized. The four components are Age-structured homosexuality, Cross-gender homosexuailty, Role specialized homosexuality, and Egalitarian homosexuality. All four are related in regards to homosexual behavior, but are different in regards to the groups of people and the The first component the author talks about is Age-structured homosexuality. An example of this is offered in the culture of various parts of Melanesia. Young boys were taken from their homes and placed in houses a short distance from their villages. At these houses they were denied all contact with females and they prepared for manhood by the transmission of semen with older men. The young boys had to be the receiver of the transmission. When these boys got older, their roles are reversed and they become the givers of the transmission. Could this behavior be damaging to their characters, and make them feel insecure? I want to beleive that these behaviors only made them stronger, but I also want to beleive that they had a choice not to engage in the behavior if they did not want to. These acts were done, in an attempt to make sure these boys developed proper male values such as courage, proficiency in hunting, and the ability to dominate women(26) Should these boys really be taught how to dominate women? I do not think that boys should be taught that. This survey states nothing about these behaviors only being practiced in the past. I thought by now, women all over the globe have realized ...

How to Create Successful Community Service Projects

How to Create Successful Community Service Projects SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Have you considered doing somecommunity service work during high school but can't find anything that fits your interests? Do you want to have more ownership over what kind of service work you do? If so, then making your own community service project may be the right idea for you. Read on for a step-by-step guide that will tell you everything you need to know to completeasuccessful community service project. Why Should You Do Community Service? Community service work can be a great way to spend some free time in high school, but did you also know that it can also be a big help when you apply to colleges? Colleges like seeing community service work as an extracurricular activity because it shows that you are actively involved in something that will better yourself and the world. By doing community service, you show that you have a real interest in making a positive change in your community. Community service shows admissions officers that you have a number of the "intangible" qualities that they're looking for in students. For example, through service work, you can show yourability to balance a lot of different activities at once while also maintaining your course load.This shows that you can stay organizedand take initiative. Finally, community service can help with some of the more concrete aspects of your college applications as well. The work you do can be great subject materialfor an application essay, can lead to good letters of recommendation, and - perhaps most importantly - can lead to scholarships! For more benefits of doing community service, see our guide. Why Should You Starta Community Service Project? If you're ready to start doing some community service work, you may want to considerstartingyour own community service project. Usually, students will choose to volunteer their time for a pre-established organization. However, creatingyour own community service project gives you the opportunity to have greater control over what you want to work on and what you want to achieve. Community service projects are different from traditional community service work because they areusually focused around one event or one goal and havedistinct end points. For example, you may decide to host a race to raise money and awareness for a certain disease, or you could plan a blood drive to help out after a disaster. These kinds of projects require a lot of planning and careful execution, so they're best attempted by students who have confidence in their ability to follow through in those areas. Though planning community service projects can be considerably more difficult than traditional community service work, it can also pay off in big ways, especially when considering your college applications: It shows leadership skills. This is a big thing that colleges want to see in your extracurricular activities. According to a DoSomething.org survey, over 50% of admissions officers agree that being a leader in a project or running your own project isthe best way to learn from community service experience. Why do admissions officers love leadership? Remember, they are on the lookout for the leaders of tomorrow. Show them now that you have the gumption to be one! It shows the ability to plan and organize. While leadership can refer to an intangible ability to inspire others, the planning and organization skills it takes to pull off a successful community service project are noteworthy in their own right. To run a large-scale event, you will need to coordinate many people, accurately predict expenses, and create a timeline. All of these are important skills that will help you in college and the future. It shows your ability to work with others. Most community service projects will be undertaken with a group. By organizing one, you are showing that you have great people skills. You can recognize different people’s talents and understand how to use them to maximum effect. You will show initiative and innovativeness. You saw a problem and decided that you were going to be the one to fix it. Moreover, nobody else told you how you were going to go about doing that. This shows great critical thinking and problem-solving skills that colleges love to see. Now that you know some of the reasons for making the effort to do a community service project let's go through the steps of successfully planning a project. 10Steps for Startinga Successful Community Service Project Step 1: Find Out What Is Needed in Your Community There are many ways to do this. Start out by asking your friends and family members if there are things that they have seen that need a solution. Talk to neighbors. Engage in a community discussion board such as Nextdoor.com. Talk to community officials (local government) and police officers, and speak with non-profit groups in the area. Once you have an idea of the issues present in your area, spend some time researching them. What is the history of the issue? Is it a new thing or has it been around a long time? What realistic steps can be taken to address it? What, if anything, have other groups done in the past to fixthe issue? It’s also a good idea to research what kind of events have taken place in your community in the past. What projectswere successful? What sort of activities had nobody show up? You can do this by talking to your local city government or local non-profit groups that have held events. You may also know from personal experience of events that you have attended. Which were the most engaging and resonated with your community? Step 2: See What You Have the Ability to Do It's time to start asking yourself the tough, specific questions. Remember to be honest and realistic as you answer them: What skills and talents do you have? How many people do you realistically think you will be able to get to help you? What skills and talents will they have? How many hours per week can you devote to the project? How soon do you want to do the project? What is a realistic amount of money you will be able to raise for the project? Do you have any materials at hand that will be helpful? Step 3: Choose a Project List your activity ideas. If you have a group of people you're going to work with, allow them to help yourank the ideasfrom most to least important. Vote on or decide which activity you want to do. Make sure it is reasonable, within your means, and that you can actually make an impact. Be honest with yourself and your group when assessing how to make the most impact. For example, imagine that you have decided to build a home for a homeless family. Would the experience of building the home yourselves add any value for the homeless family? On the flip side, could it cause any harm? Would it be more efficient and beneficial for the family if you simply raised the money for the home and allowed professionals to do the work? Be realistic withyour expectations and honest about the best way to reach your end goal. Step 4: Develop a Plan To start, write down exactly what you are hoping to accomplish. This will includea big-picture goal as well as the specific smaller tasks that you will need to doin order to get to that main goal. You also need to go into the practicalities of the project. How much equipment will you need? How many people will you need to successfully complete each part of the project? How much time can each person commit to the project? How will you organize different volunteers? Remember that you're responsible for the success of the project and one large part of that is that it takes place safely and legally. Do some background work to check out your liabilities and research the potential complications that can arise from the project you're planning. Step 5: Recruit Your Volunteers If you don’t already have a group of people helping you, now is the time to get some people involved. You can advertise in local newspapers, online forums, or websites like VolunteerMatch.org. Also, ask friends and family if they know people who would like to be involved. For each person, make sure that you have their contact information (email and phone number), as well as what areas they are best able to help in (making food, publicity, etc.). Get specific time commitments from your members. How much time can they contribute every week? How much time can they contribute on the day of the event? Make sure they are realistic and don’t commit more than their schedules will allow. Step 6: Make a Budget Now that you know your goals, you have to get specific with how much money is going to be needed to make your plan come to life. There are severalprograms out there that can help you make organized, detailed budgets. You can also do this in Excel or Word. Make sure you list the type of items that you need – be specific! How many will you need of each item? What is the cost per item? What is the total cost? Don’t forget that your budget has to includemore than just the physical items involved in your project. If you need a license to have an event or if you are going to pay someone to make an appearance, that will need to be factored into the budget as well. Finally, be sure to consider practical needs, like the cost of transportation and food on the day of the event for your volunteers. Step 7: Make a Timeline You should already have a rough idea of how long your project will take, but now you need to narrow it down to the specifics. Pick an end date for your project that will give you enough time to put it together. Make sure that the date is approved by all necessary authorities. Make specificschedulesfor each of your volunteers basedon how much time each can contribute. This is important – you don’t want to end up having to do everything yourself at the last minute because you assumed that people would be putting in more hours than they actually can! Try to be realistic with your expectations of what can be accomplished every hour. Markspecific goals on your timeline. By a certain date, a certain amount of the project should be completed, etc. Make note of specific things that are critical to success. What are the dates of fundraising events? When will yousend press releases to the media? Step 8: Raise Money There are a number of ways to raise money: street collection, organized events like raffles or an auction, direct mail donations, asking for contributions through church newsletters,and more. Increasingly, people are raising money through crowdfundingwebsites, such as GoFundMe, CrowdRise, DonorsChoose, or Kickstarter. See if any of these are viable options for your plan. You can also contact local businesses for sponsorship. Offer them some sort of advertisement in return. Whatever you choose to do, you will need to develop a strategy. Decide what your plan of attack will be to raise the amount needed. Top Tips for Raising Money: Get in touch with local officials to see if they have any tips, advice, or restrictions on how you can raise money Check into grants. Many charities will give money to projects that benefit their causes. Try to get money from a variety of sources so that you're not too reliant on just one if it happens to fail. Always have a backup plan. Step 9: Get Publicity Make a list of contacts at TV stations, newspapers, blogs, magazines, and radio stations. You are generally looking for journalists and editors. There are a number of ways you can get in touch with people who might be interested in covering your story. Start by looking for journalists who have written about similar causes or events in the past. You may be able to find an email address or other contact information by looking atpreviously-published articles. You should alsocheck local papers to see if there is information about whom to contact for local stories. Finally, you can search websitessuch as LinkedIn, much of which can be accessed even if you don't have an account. Initial contact can be made through social media (such as Twitter), or you can try to call or email the right people. You'll want to talk with them both about the specifics of the project, and why you're doing it. Make sure you let them know who is going to benefit from your project. Once you have your contacts and they're on board with advertising your project, make sure you stick to your schedule. Send out press releases at the appropriate time. Also, keep your contacts updated with any exciting milestones or achievements (such as reaching your fundraising goal). You can also easily advertise on your own. Set up a social media account (Facebook and/or Twitter) for the event. Make up a catchy hashtag you can use when talking about the event, and try to get others to use it as well. Step 10: Do the Project Now it's time toexecute all of your planning! On the Day of Your Event It may seem like the hard work is done at this point, but the actual event needs to go off without a hitch! The first step is to make sure that as much as possible is done and set up the day before the event. Don’t stress yourself out more than you need to on the day of! It’s also good to send out lots of reminders the day before to volunteers, participants, media,and anyone else whois important. Make sure you have a detailed schedule for what you will do the day of the event.Also, make a list of volunteer contact info, vendor contact info, and who will help in emergencies. Keep this with you at all times. Try to enjoy yourself, but stay on top of how things are progressing! Don’t forget to take pictures and stay active on social media during the event. Congrats on finishing your project! What to Do Afterward Once your project is over, you hopefully have experienced and learned new things. Take some time to reflect on this on your ownand also get feedback from the volunteers and participants. What didn’t go to plan? Consider how you could have done things differently and avoided problems. What went well? Why were those things successful? What have you learned about yourself? This can be many things like teamwork, leadership, or planning skills. Also, make sure you stop andconsider if you actually were successful in your goals. Did you help your target group? How can you tell that you have made progress and an impact? Take notes of these things. Finally, take some time to celebrate. You’ve just undertaken and accomplished something that many people would shy away from. 3Tips to Make Your Project Easier If the abovesteps seem daunting, try some of these tips to help make your project a success: Try setting up your project through your school. This may make it easier for you to recruit fellow students to volunteer for your event, and it can also give you a convenient place to meet to work on theproject. Reach out to a wide range of helpers to work on your project. You can do this by advertising in local newspapers, newsletters, through your city government, or on local websites. When your volunteers have a wide range of skills, it canmake certain tasks - like contacting the media or making a budget - easier because there is a good chance that someone will have done it before. Partner with a local charity or non-profit if you have a mutual cause. The charity may already have registered volunteers so you will have to recruit fewer people, and it may be able to either donate money to your projector have ideasthat will make your fundraising easier. What’s Next? If you would like some inspiration for choosing a community service project, see our list of community service ideas. If you want to learn more about why volunteering might be a good choice for you, check out the benefits of community service for teens. Already done a community service project? Learn how to write about your extracurriculars on your college application. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

The Criminal Justice System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

The Criminal Justice System - Essay Example The study presents Theoretical Criminology that refers to a discipline focusing on the establishment, development, and the advancement of the theoretical, speculative, or notional aspects of criminological knowledge. In other terms, theoretical criminology encompasses the various theories, crimes, and the narratives related to or explaining crime and delinquency. In addition, theoretical criminology entails the study and surveys of criminal/delinquent behaviors, criminal law, social deviance, morality, and social regulation/governance crimes/criminals. Besides the renewal of healthy theoretical debates in the criminal justice systems, theoretical criminology explores the interrelation of criminological theories and empirical data from crime-focused researches, thereby promoting the establishment of linkages between cultural, socio-political theories, and criminological analysis. Although the academic nature of criminal justice became more apparent in the 1950s, a period during the di scipline was mainly characterized by observational researches; recent times have realized the diversification of the discipline, with more complex criminal justice systems, organizations, and agents/personnel. Consequently, the criminological theories have since evolved to become more complex and equally diversified in their elements and areas of applicability. In fact, the contemporary theories of criminology could not be easily identified with the theoretical criminology that existed fifty years ago. ... Theoretical Criminology Theoretical Criminology refers to a discipline focusing on the establishment, development, and the advancement of the theoretical, speculative, or notional aspects of criminological knowledge (Walsh & Ellis, 2007). In other terms, theoretical criminology encompasses the various theories, crimes, and the narratives related to or explaining crime and delinquency (Beccaria & Davies, 1974). In addition, theoretical criminology entails the study and surveys of criminal/delinquent behaviors, criminal law, social deviance, morality, and social regulation/governance crimes/criminals. Besides the renewal of healthy theoretical debates in the criminal justice systems, theoretical criminology explores the interrelation of criminological theories and empirical data from crime-focused researches, thereby promoting the establishment of linkages between cultural, socio-political theories, and criminological analysis. Although the academic nature of criminal justice became mo re apparent in the 1950s, a period during the discipline was mainly characterized by observational researches; recent times have realized the diversification of the discipline, with more complex criminal justice systems, organizations, and agents/personnel. Consequently, the criminological theories have since evolved to become more complex and equally diversified in their elements and areas of applicability. In fact, the contemporary theories of criminology could not be easily identified with the theoretical criminology that existed fifty years ago. With the more complex theoretical researches accumulated in the last sixty years, relatively more specific criminological theories have been postulated. Most of these specific criminological theories explain various types of

Final Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Final - Essay Example he company continued the production of sports car over the next few decades, only venturing outside the sports car market in the 21st century with Cayenne Porsche being released in 2003 and then Panamera Porsche being released in 2005 (Henderson &Reavis, 2009). Nevertheless, the early 1990s were not good business years for Porsche, which saw a slump both in its production and market, such that the company was only selling 14,000 during this period, having been able to sell over 50,000 units before. Regardless of the upheavals in the car product market, the engineering services market for Porsche remained stable, owing to the fact that the company was offering the engineering services to virtually all automobile makers in the market through its Porsche Engineering Group (PEG). It is out of this trading activity that Porsche was able to earn around 60% of its pre-tax profits, with the product market making up for the rest 40% of the company’s revenues (Leffingwell, 2011). Porsche’s move towards acquiring the Volkswagen Group started in 2005 when the company acquired a 20% stake in the company, which was then followed by an increase in the percentage of the shares acquired to 31.5% by 2007. However, the acquisition of Volkswagen by Porsche has remained a controversial issue, owing to the fear that the company’s products will degrade in value, while the customers for the Porsche’s engineering service might eventually quit their engagement with the company, due to its partnering with a large automaker, which produced and sold over 6 million vehicles in 2007 (Henderson &Reavis, 2009). It is this fear that poses the risk for Porsche’s possible loss of revenues, owing to the fact that the engineering services sold to the other automakers contributed the highest percentage of Porsche’s annual revenues, and thus the cutback in selling these services will affects the company’s financial position and profitability. The acquisition of Volkswagen also threatens to

Unit 3 Discussion Board Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Unit 3 Discussion Board - Essay Example Every product goes through a particular life cycle and the strategy that must be applied will differ in each instance. For instance, during the early stages, company strategy must focus upon achieving competitiveness through judicious pricing, heavy marketing and expenses on R&D. During the later declining stage of the product life cycle, the emphasis is on broadening the product line and avoiding price cuts.(Wasson, 1974). On the basis of a product’s market share and growth based upon its life cycle, the BCG places the product portfolio of a Company into four different quadrants of a matrix, with the relative market share of the product ranked along the X axis and product growth ranked along the Y axis. Businesses in each quadrant will have significantly different tendencies to consume or generate cash. The appliances division of my Company has been placed in the upper right quadrant of the matrix, which represents the wildcat or question mark. This suggests that the division has a negative cash flow, requiring â€Å"large cash inputs that it cannot generate itself.† (Henderson, 1979, p166). Wildcat ventures are often fledgling operations and offer the promise of future generation of revenue. The major aspect to be addressed in the case of the appliances division is thus market share. Since the products may typically have a low market share because they are not well known, the recommended strategy would be to introduce a competitive price for the product as compared to similar products already in the market. It is also recommended that an aggressive advertising and promotional campaign is implemented, in order to increase sales of the product and improve its market share. In the event the market share of the product does not improve, then it may turn into a â€Å"dog† or become unproductive, and before that happens it is better to sell off the products or close up the division. Woo and Cooper (1980) have points

Assign4 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Assign4 - Assignment Example With the last appearance on the Milky Way was the Supernova 1604 that happened in the year 1604 years ago. This is one of the latest appearances by the naked eyes of human beings. It is also discovered that the Supernova that happens occurs five times in a whole century. There is a question why this does not occur as the past for the last century of over 1000 years. This has made the galaxy to be deficient in a manner that the five occurrences are just an average whereby one century had more appearances of the supernovas than the others. Another reason for this is that the clouds sometimes blocked the occurrences of the Supernovas. The water originated from the Big Band theory where by the energy found on earth which made the outside of the earth to be hot causing particles which led to the particles. All this particles combined with the environment particles and formed the atomic nuclei that led to the water falls. Another way discussed is the mathematical description whereby the cosmic abundances are well explained. This is where there is unlimited amount of the helium and lithium left with more of the hydrogen. This is a mystery of the earth being covered by the ice for a long time from one pole of it to another. The snowball idea covers the coldest part of the earth having the climate that is imaginable. This is done by the sun being covered by the icy surface making it not to provide the required sun rays. With all the cold that moderates the weather by the oceans, making the climate of the atmosphere to be like that of mars. The evidence for the survival is that there were the distribution of the deposits in the Sturtian and Marinoan. The Marine and the thick carbonate are also interacting causing the deposits at the warmest parts in the ocean surface. On the contrary the deposits have different years of age and there are no extensions on the same deposits. For the use of the SETI experiments human beings are able to

Strategic Change Heriot-Watt University Analysis Essay

Strategic Change Heriot-Watt University Analysis - Essay Example This model encompasses seven different factors that include â€Å"shared values, strategy, structure, systems, style, staff, and skills† which all are necessary to be included to ensure that a model of positive change occurs. It is defined as a holistic model of change that is collectivist in its many segments, thus requiring the university staff and its external partners to work together to ensure that the change efforts occur smoothly and all vision and mission goals are met successfully. The first part of the model looks toward establishing a vision so that shared values can be expressed and developed within the organizational staff and the students. The vision for the change is â€Å"to become a world-leading university that will produce the next generation of global leaders in business and technology – committed to growth and investment in staff and infrastructure†. The tool is to develop a new urgency in high-quality education and learning materials, by pro viding supporting technological know-how and the tools needed to make sure that the technologies needed are used appropriately and meet goals. Centralized services are also being strengthened so that courses offered to students are consistent toward the world-class business and technology goals in areas of environment, climate, business, and technology.It is ongoing professional development for educators to ensure they have the skills and knowledge available to provide excellence in training and education provision for academic students.... Essentially, it is ongoing professional development for educators to ensure they have the skills and knowledge available to provide excellence in training and education provision for academic students. These efforts also take into consideration and provide a foundational structure for systems, skills and staff development that are part of the McKinsey 7-S model of change. Externally, the university students and the educators will be consulting with knowledge leaders in all key areas of the Focus on the Future campaign in order to assist in developing a world-class curriculum for tomorrow’s business and technology leaders. One example is a partnership with business leaders at the Institute of Petroleum Engineering to assist in areas of clean energy provision so that students have real-world knowledge about processes and future strategies related to energy. 3. Driving and restraining forces â€Å"For change to be possible, driving forces must (ultimately) overcome the restraini ng forces that have been identified† (SkyMark, 2011, p.2). The university must brainstorm ideas and concepts that will be directly related to whether or not it can meet its long-term strategic goals of ensuring better education and better educator knowledge about real-time events in the business world as it relates to tomorrow’s industries. The following is a force field analysis showing the likely driving and restraining forces associated with the Focus on the Future campaign: Driving forces are those forces that make up the foundation of the entire change effort, such as external business needs related to more qualified and knowledgeable students. This

Assign4 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Assign4 - Assignment Example With the last appearance on the Milky Way was the Supernova 1604 that happened in the year 1604 years ago. This is one of the latest appearances by the naked eyes of human beings. It is also discovered that the Supernova that happens occurs five times in a whole century. There is a question why this does not occur as the past for the last century of over 1000 years. This has made the galaxy to be deficient in a manner that the five occurrences are just an average whereby one century had more appearances of the supernovas than the others. Another reason for this is that the clouds sometimes blocked the occurrences of the Supernovas. The water originated from the Big Band theory where by the energy found on earth which made the outside of the earth to be hot causing particles which led to the particles. All this particles combined with the environment particles and formed the atomic nuclei that led to the water falls. Another way discussed is the mathematical description whereby the cosmic abundances are well explained. This is where there is unlimited amount of the helium and lithium left with more of the hydrogen. This is a mystery of the earth being covered by the ice for a long time from one pole of it to another. The snowball idea covers the coldest part of the earth having the climate that is imaginable. This is done by the sun being covered by the icy surface making it not to provide the required sun rays. With all the cold that moderates the weather by the oceans, making the climate of the atmosphere to be like that of mars. The evidence for the survival is that there were the distribution of the deposits in the Sturtian and Marinoan. The Marine and the thick carbonate are also interacting causing the deposits at the warmest parts in the ocean surface. On the contrary the deposits have different years of age and there are no extensions on the same deposits. For the use of the SETI experiments human beings are able to

Assignment (Economics) Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

(Economics) - Assignment Example The adverse impact of tax hike was phenomenal for casual drinkers as they massively reduced their consumption, thereby resulting in overall decrease in aggregate beer demand. Obviously, the producers were unable to increase prices substantially considering demand / consumption pattern and thus suffered stupendous financial losses. For instance, the producers adopted downsizing strategy, which in turn resulted in 50,000 job losses. The revenues to government also declined in general as the beer industry did not record significant market expansion and growth. The demand from hardcore drinkers also reduced as they switched to other cheap drinks to ensure their balance of their financial budgets. All in all, the rollback of levies / taxes would not lead to mammoth rise in consumption; rather will reduce financial burden on producers as well as consumers. Next, consumers would not change their drinking habit and start consuming irresponsibly; therefore, this is just a myth that rollback o f beer taxes may cause grave healthcare issues. Reference Beer Tax Website â€Å"Just the Facts† Roll Back the Beer Tax http://www.rollbackthebeertax.com/

Comparative Between Confucius and Daoism Essay Example for Free

Comparative Between Confucius and Daoism Essay Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)111 Please cite as Low K. C. P. (2011) ‘Confucianism Versus Taoism’, Conflict Resolution Negotiation Journal, Volume 2011, Issue 4, p. 111 127 Confucianism Versus Taoism Prof. Dr. Patrick Low Kim Cheng Ph. D. Chartered Marketer, Certified MBTI Administrator, Certified Behavioral Consultant/ Universiti Brunei Darussalam; Associate, University of South Australia About the Author Prof. Dr. Patrick Low Kim Cheng, Ph. D. (South Australia), Chartered Marketer, Certified MBTI Administrator, Certified Behavioral Consultant (IML, USA), brings with him more than 20 years of combined experience from sectors as diverse as the electronics, civil service, academia, banking, human resource development and consulting. His MNC and local corporate clients from ASEAN, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Bangladesh and Kazakhstan are in manufacturing, electronics, IT, retail, engineering services, hospitals, hotels, banks financial institutions as well as the public sector. The once Visiting Professor, Graduate School of Business, Universiti of Malaya (Jan to Feb 2007), Prof. Dr. Low was the Deputy Dean, Postgraduate Studies Research, teaching in Universiti Brunei Darussalam (2009). He teaches the graduate students/ MBA in Organisational Behavior, Managing Negotiations, Leadership and Change Management, and the undergraduates in Leadership Basics, Challenging Leadership, Business and Society, Issues in Organizational Leadership, Organization Analysis Design; and Organization Development Change. The former Associate Dean, Director of Career Services and Chair of the Management and Marketing Department of a University in Kazakhstan (2004 to 2006) focuses on human resource management and behavioral skills training covering areas like negotiation/ influencing, leadership and behavioral modification. An academician-practitioner, a prolific author (author of twelve books including bestsellers (Strategic Customer Management, 2006, 2002, 2000 – one of Borders’ top ten in 2001/2, Sales Success, 2006, 2003; Team Success, 2003 and The Power of Relationships, 2001). His most recent books include Successfully Negotiating In Asia (Springer, 2010) and Electronic copy available at: http://ssrn. com/abstract=1982271 Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)112 Corporate Culture and Values – Perceptions of Corporate Leaders of Cooperatives in Singapore (VDM-Verlag, 2009). A business coach, Prof. Dr. Low is the founder of BusinesscrAFTâ„ ¢ Consultancy and he previously served as an Examiner for University of South Australia’s DBA and Ph. D. candidates (2003 to October 2006); presently, he has been appointed as the supervisor for its DBA candidates. Besides his experience in academia, training and consulting, Prof. Dr. Patrick Low has held positions in regional human resource development (HRD). He has been the Senior Training Manager (Asia Pacific Region) in Standard Chartered Bank where he was responsible for regional management training and development, marketing of HRD services and management succession. He can be contacted at [emailprotected] com Confucianism Versus Taoism Abstract: In this paper, the practitioner-academician makes comparisons and contrasts between the two great philosophical bodies (or oldest religious traditions) of China, that is, Confucianism and Taoism. Among other things, the key commonalities of Confucianism and Taoism include being in pursuit of the Tao, close to nature and harmony, and taking the right actions are critical than just the belief(s). The key differences are also examined here, and these, among other things, include human living and spirituality, and filial piety and nature as well as rites and beyond rites. 1 Introduction Confucianism and Taoism do not have a specific founder or date of founding, even though one of them (Confucianism) appears to be named after an individual, K’ung Fu Tzu or Confucius in English. Confucius was born in 551 BC in China in what is presently Shantung Province. He lived during the Zhou dynasty, known for its ethical laxity. For Taoism, its texts include the Tao de ching (The Way of Power) which is believed to have been written by Lao Tzu. The text describes the nature of life, the way to peace and how a ruler should lead his life. The Chuang Tzu contains additional teachings of Taoism. Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Electronic copy available at: http://ssrn. com/abstract=1982271 Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)113 1. 1 Paper’s Aim And Objectives The aim and objectives of the paper are to make comparisons and examine the contrasts between the two great philosophical bodies (or oldest religious traditions) in China, that is, Confucianism and Taoism, and with that, it is hoped to logically get a better understanding of the two philosophical bodies. 2 2. 1 Commonalities Of Confucianism And Taoism In Pursuit of the Tao Both show that the non-religious state of existence is unsatisfying and non-harmonious. Instead, both Confucianism and Taoism stress on the pursuit of the Tao, and that the Tao is the ultimate. Similar to Shakespeare’s â€Å"have more than thou showest, speak less than thou knowest†, in Taoism, it is said that those who know do not speak and those who speak do not know. Tao, the first cause, can be roughly translated into English as â€Å"path†, or â€Å"the way†, referring to a power which envelops, surrounds and flows through all things, living and non-living. Tao is the Oneness of everything; â€Å"Tao is always without a name and that it is the origin of heaven and earth. Tao can also be said to be the â€Å"Absolute† that it can be said to be the movement and a stillness without a beginning, Yin and Yang (also known as Tai Chi) are things that can be said to be without a beginning† (Cleary 2003, cited in Low and Ang, 2010: 85; Wu, 1990: 1). 2. 2 Close to Nature And Harmony Both Confucianism and Taoism are close to nature, very much reflected in Chinese culture. Most Chinese gates or traditional Chinese gardens display a pair of lions, one male and one female. The female mother lion, usually with its young, represents Mother Nature. From Confucius – The Analects, Chapter VII verse 17, we learn that â€Å"The Master used a fishing line but not a cable; attached to a net, he used a corded arrow but not to shoot at roosting birds. † Both Taoism and Confucianism believe that the two opposing and complementary forces Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)114 (chi) of yin and yang should be maintained in a harmonious condition no matter what level they are operating on, such as universe, nature, society, or an individual (Li, 1996). â€Å"Everything will be accomplished smoothly in a harmonious family,† Confucius encouraged that internal harmony should also be treasured as the highest value within a family, just as it is essential to the smooth functioning of a system at any other level. Both schools preach that humans live in harmony with nature, and such a way is compatible with humankind’s taking care of nature and the surrounding environment of the communities they live and work (Low and Ang, forthcoming; Low, forthcoming). In Lao Tzu’s mind, the people should be encouraged to embrace simplicity, diminishing self interest and curbing one’s desires (Tao Te Ching, Verse 49); in this way, one can then create a peaceful and harmonious environmental attitude towards people and nature, and there is overall happiness between and among all. Detaching ourselves and not getting caught with the great number of things in our mind, we also slow down, pay attention to our breathing, move slowly and deeply, and we reach new understandings about ourselves and the world around us. In Taoism, peace is  treasured (â€Å"The best way of conquering an enemy is to win him over by not antagonizing him†¦Ã¢â‚¬  – Tao Te Ching, verse 68; Wu, 1990: 101). War is no good and only results in sufferings of the people; rulers need to find and seek peace for his or her people. With harmony, trade, business and profits can be made, and the countries make progress – as the Chinese saying goes, â€Å"Harmony grows profits† (Hanyu Pinyin: he chi sen chai). It can thus be said that the Chinese prize harmony above all things. A large part of Chinese literature is based on the idea of harmony (Tao Te Ching – McDonald, 2009; Mitchell, 1995; Towler, 2002). For both Confucianism and Taoism, a sage is a person who is in total harmony with their world – the world around them as well as the world within them. 2. 3 Wanting to Be Happy And Being Positive Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)115 One of the basic facts of life is that all of us want to be happy. Each of us does not wish to suffer; and yet, suffering is a part of life, just as happiness is. It can be taken that both Confucianism and Taoism, being positive, appear to urge people to pursue happiness. If we are negative, then we spend too much time searching for ways to avoid suffering; indeed so, we will also miss out much of the happiness that is possible in our lives. In Confucianism, with the Rectification of Names and roles fulfilled, a father does the father’s role, a mother the mother’s role, the son the son’s role and so on; then there will be harmonious relationships and happiness. If there were peace, harmony and happiness in the family and since a nation is essentially made of families, then the nation would also enjoy peace, harmony and happiness. Confucius also highlighted that having an independent, truly calm, steady, down-to-earth mind and heart that one can avoid being swayed by the rises and falls, gains and loses of life. Free from worries and fears (Confucius – The Analects, Chapter XII, verse 4), a person of high integrity and morality (a gentleperson, junzi) would be happy; (s)he would sleep well. In these ways, one can thus be more or less, contented or happy. In Taoism, as in Yin-Yang, it is taken that the seed of suffering is inherent in each moment of happiness. In this way we should remain centered during moments of great happiness. In life, if we build our happiness on simple things like love, friendship, good health, and spirit, we can build a sense of happiness that will endure the challenges and changes that life gives us (Towler, 2002a; http://ancienthistory. mrdonn. org/Taoism. html). Thus, in both Confucianism and Taoism call for people to live happily. 2. 4 Right Actions Are Critical Both generally see religious beliefs as having less importance than religious practices. In fact, both Confucianism and Taoism stress on orthopraxy (right actions) over orthodoxy (right beliefs). Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)116 In The Analects, Book II verse 13, it is said that Tzu-kung asked about the gentleman. The Master said, ‘He puts his words into action before allowing his words to follow his action. ’† Low (2008: 33) speaks of the â€Å"message Confucius impresses on us is that: As leaders, we need to act and behave as gentlemen. † And what more, he has added that â€Å"when virtue is practised, one enjoys a clear conscience† (Low, 2008: 33). Confucianism also stresses on humanism, and more importantly on the value of love and compassion (Low, 2010). In a person’s personal conduct, (s)he is respectful. In his or her dealings with his or her staff, (s)he is considerate; in caring for the common people’s welfare, (s)he is generously kind; and in dealing with all, (s)he is just (Low, 2008). Like Confucianism, Taoism also stresses on compassion (a typical right action), underscoring the fact that â€Å"weapons of war augur evil. Even things seem to hate them†; besides, â€Å"to achieve more for others, enlarge your heart† (Low, 2009: 33). 2. 5 Open And Continuing Canons Each does not have a closed canon, each continues to be interpreted, written and included in their respective canons. However, unlike Taoism, familiarity with the Confucian canon was one of the main requirements of the civil service examinations in traditional China. 2. 6 No Fixed Religious Services But Anywhere At Anytime, It Can Be Practiced Interestingly too or in fact, very convenient, both have no fixed religious services and can be practiced anywhere, from shrines and temples to private studies and mountain peaks. Seen from this angle, there is much freedom and it is life and in living, praying and living in oneness (life itself is a prayer! ). The good thing is that they are without rituals or strict conformity of attending masses or prayer sessions in fixed days as evident in some of the other major religions. Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)117 2. 7 Benevolence And Compassion Interestingly, Low (2008a: 67) has highlighted that one of the classic leadership sins or mistakes is that of â€Å"being callous to the needs of the others† or lacking in empathy or worse, compassion. For both Confucius and Lao Tzu, leaders need to be benevolent. Low (2008b) has highlighted that the Confucian business owner/leadership, with its high task and high relationship, is seen as caring and the leader builds the bond with the employees. In the Confucian sense, being benevolent or kind, a characteristic element of humanity, is an part of an individual’s talents. Like Confucianism, Taoism also considers a worthy person as a benevolent person, and in the former, a benevolent person enjoys longevity (ren cher shou). Leaders need to be compassionate and empathetic. Both Confucianism and Taoism preach and stress on compassion. Compassion is, in fact, one of Lao Tzu’s three treasures (Low, 2009; Wu, 1990). Such a belief and action is particularly vital. And it is, in fact, excellent when it comes to leading people since the compassionate leaders practice servant leadership, desiring overall little or nothing for themselves, but empathetically showing and acting with care and concern more for the people and their needs (Low, 2010, 2009; 2008). Figure 1: A List of Commonalities Of Confucianism And Taoism In Pursuit of the Tao Close to Nature And Harmony Wanting to Be Happy And Being Positive Right Actions Are Critical Open And Continuing Canons No Fixed Religious Services But Anywhere At Anytime, It Can Be Practiced Benevolence And Compassion Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)118 3 3. 1 The Key Differences Human Living and Spirituality Confucianism, on one hand, stresses on attaining Tao in human living. The writings of Confucius deal primarily with individual morality and ethics. (also see Low, 2008c – Confucian ethics and business responsibility to the various stakeholders), and the proper exercise of political power by the rulers. Confucianism is not, properly speaking, a religion but it is more of a way of behaving so that one does the right things (http://ancienthistory. mrdonn. org/Confucius. html). Confucianism stresses on the Rectification of Names, and each needs to fulfill each person’s respective roles and responsibilities. For Confucius, â€Å"therefore, the superior man examines his heart that there may be nothing wrong there, and that he may have no cause for dissatisfaction with himself. † (Doctrine of the Mean, Chapter XXXIII. , Verse 2, cited in Confucius, 1915). A Confucian thus believes that an ordered society is what people should strive for. In that sense, it is more this-worldly, and is a way of life rather than a religion. Nonetheless, the wisdom of the Old Master can (still) help us to obtain spiritual happiness in the modern world, to get used to the daily routine of our lives, and to find the personal bearings that tell us where we are (Yu Dan, 2009: 11). Taoism, on the other hand, focuses on achieving the Tao, basically on the spiritual aspects of life; and it is other-worldly and can be considered as a religion. [Some have, however, argued that Taoism is not a religion. Taoism is a philosophy, a way of looking at life and a way of thinking about things. Taoists believe if one looks at life and think about things in the right way, one will be much happier -http://ancienthistory. mrdonn. org/Taoism. html. ] This author however feels that Taoism stresses on the spiritual aspects of life and it is mystical too – â€Å"Tao can be talked about, but not the Eternal Tao, Names can be named, but not the Eternal Name. As the origin of heaven-and-earth, it is nameless. As ‘the Mother’ of all things, it is nameable. † (Tao te ching, verse 1, Wu, 1990: 1). It is also said that one of the head-twisty things about the Tao de ching is that it never specifically defines The Way. The book itself is a series of verses, poems, Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)119 and riddles, stressing on control but not dominance, fluidity but not ambivalence, and mystery but not confusion. Nonetheless, it is full of wise, helpful nuggets to assist human beings in living and attaining spiritual contentment; examples include â€Å"embrace simplicity, put others first. Desire little†, and â€Å"weapons are the bearers of bad news; all people should detest them† (Lao Tzu, Verses 19 and 31, Tao de ching; McDonald; 2009). To elaborate, one should live simply while being healthily aware and refusing greed and lust. After all, as in the Chinese proverb, one should not â€Å"add legs to the snake after one has finished drawing it†. And not to complicate things, simplicity indeed makes one’s life easier, more convenient and pleasant. And next, all of us should value or treasure peace and harmony. Confucius’ The Analects, depending heavily on analogy and metaphor, is, on the other hand, very clear and concrete on attaining the way in terms of human living, and for the overall good of humankind. For Confucius, there is to be good family living; and peace and harmony as well as the attainment of good community living. For Lao Tzu, there is to be oneness with nature and the Universe or Heaven. 3. 2 Practicality And Esotericism. Confucianism is very practical, suited for pragmatic human living. In The Analects, Book XI, verse 12: â€Å"Chi-lu asked how the spirits of the dead and the gods should be served. The Master said, ‘You are not able even to serve man. How can you serve the spirits? ’ ‘May I ask about death? ’ ‘You do not understand even life. How can you understand death? ’ For Confucianism, in business, corporate social responsibility (CSR) should always be there: what is taken from the community is returned through donations, charity and other assistances rendered to the poor and needy. In his study, Low (2008c) has indicated that the Confucian Golden Rule and Confucian ethics in the context of the stakeholder theory, showing how businesses can be ethical while being caring and compassionate for its stakeholders. Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)120 In Taoism, the goal of each believer is to become one with the Tao, a force that flows through all life. The concept of a personified deity is foreign to them; perhaps there is the concept of an impersonal god. The practitioners do not pray because there is no god to hear the prayers or to act upon them; believers seek answers to life’s problems through inner meditation and outer observation. [In that sense, Taoism can be seen as esoteric, abstract or not easy to be understood. ] Taoists believe in the duality of the universe, symbolized by yin-yang, but oneness is to be attained through inner meditation, balance and harmony. Taoist practitioners believe in nourishing life and the spirit by energizing or getting chi (energy), meditating and being in oneness with the Tao. 3. 3. Groupings, Categorization and Non-Categorization/ Dualities And Oneness Because of Confucius’ Rectifications of Names (Fung, 1948), the role each person needs to play appears to have a lot of categorization (groupings); and love starts from loving one’s parents and family members first; and then extend out to love one’s neighbors and further extend to one’s community and society. In Taoism, there is this seeking or search for Oneness and no dualities or differentiation between animals and humans or humans and nature. Let me explain. First of all, humans need to widen their mind and horizons. Humans often live and experience reality conceptually. We do not see things afresh and anew every time we look at them; instead, we create categories and let things fall into them, which is an easy and more convenient way of dealing with the world. Apart from the smaller things, such as defining a flower as a rose, a vase as a Chinese Ming vase, an antique, or a person as a teacher, there are wider categories (groupings or types) under which everyone lives, including religions, beliefs, ideologies, and systems of government. Each category or type supplies us a level of psychological certainty and saves us  from the effort of constantly challenging our own beliefs. Take for example, humans often divide animals into ‘favorites’ or ‘pets’ and ‘domestic/ farm animals’ so that we can feel alright loving one and eating or consuming the other. Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)121 Mindlessness, on one hand, is when there is no focus and occurs when humans are conditioned or at least not know that the categories to which they subscribe are categories and have accepted them as their own without really thinking, understanding and/or experiencing it. Breaking away from, reassessing old groupings and being able to see outside one’s (individual/ in-box) subjective context (seeing the wider, collective/ out-of-the-box/ objective context) is mindfulness. We should indeed be perceiving things in un-habitual ways, and thus we’ll grow. On the other hand, when we are mindful, we will not be stereotyping and boxing things up, we’ll be in line with nature as things are transient and they also change. When we are mindful, we are breaking away from our egos and categories and in fact get closer to nature or Tao, the Universe. Then again, one can also argue that both Confucianism and Taoism are, in a way, common in terms of the pursuits of the Tao (as said under the Commonalities of Confucianism and Taoism section), and the differences lies in their starting points, from subjectivity to universality for Confucianism and from mindlessness to mindfulness for Taoism. 3. 4 Filial Piety And Nature Confucianism urges the people to respect their parents and the old. They are to take care of their parents, maintaining good links with them while upholding the value of filial piety (xiao). In the Confucian language, filial piety (xiao) means serving one’s living parents, and thus, resulting in the five (5) vital relationships in the Confucian Teaching, that is, the relationships between: i. ii. iii. iv. v. the royalty/prince and subject. father and son. older and younger brother. husband and wife. friend and friend. Filial piety embraces those attitudes of respect for one’s seniors and a reciprocal attitude of love and affection on the seniors part to the junior. After the death of one’s parents, it involves religious obligations in ceremonial worship. Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)122 Taoism, on the other hand, emphasizes ‘going with the flow’, maintaining good links and in oneness with the Nature, Heaven or the Universe. In Taoism, we learn from nature – a flower falls even though we love it, and weed grows even though we do not love it. We love the animals and creatures around us. And we do not interfere yet we are contented; after all, there is a season and reason for everything; and everything has its place; just let it be. By accepting things as they are, we become impartial or unaffected. It is good to follow the natural order (Low, 2010b). In following nature, we are in harmony with nature. There is no or little stress. We sit quietly†¦ do nothing. Spring comes and grass grows by itself. Besides, a known yet significant point to note is that nature does not hurry yet everything is achieved. 3. 5 Rites And Beyond Rites Or Rigidity Versus Flexibility Confucius introduced rites/terms of reference to ensure people comply with the system. This is somewhat rigid; however, on many occasions, he would allow people to modify, change and improve the rites accordingly. For example, on one occasion, Confucius highlighted that according to the traditional rites, ceremonial hats were made out of hemp; these days people make them out of silk, he approved of the common practice since this, after all, is more economical † (Confucius – The Analects, Chapter IX, verse 3). Lao Tzu was flexible in his teachings, and he did not introduce or follow any system such as the rites proposed by Confucius. He instead encouraged people to lead a simple life, following the natural ways of living and remain detached to the world like a newly born infant who has not yet learnt to smile. (Tao Te Ching, Verse 20). To analyze further, we can say that people in the world consists of different personalities, and some people are so used to or prefer a structure, a sort of checklist or a religious (structured) approach to doing things (In Myers-Briggs Type Indicator: MBTI terms: Thinking; Judging Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)123 Types) while others may prefer a less structured approach to doing things (In Myers-Briggs Type Indicator: MBTI terms: Feeling; Intuitive/ Perceiving Types). They like to move, adjusting along the way, rather than an immediate structured, ordered way, all the way through till the end or completion. In Confucianism, rites give structure, stability and continuity. Rites are necessary since they provide the basis of practices as well as more importantly, standards. Confucius also stressed the need for rituals and music. For Confucius, ‘sacrifice as if present’ is taken to mean ‘sacrifice to the gods as if the gods were present. ’ The Master, however, said, ‘Unless I take part in a sacrifice, it is as if I did not sacrifice. ’ (Confucius –The Analects, Chapter III verse 12). Taoism goes beyond rites, ‘going with the flow’; and like the quality of water, flexibility is also applied. Chairman Mao Zedong once quoted Lao Tzu, â€Å"Fortune lies in misfortune and vice versa. † In other words, the Taoist practitioner is often mindful of the fact that in every misfortune lies the seed of fortune, and in every fortune lies the seed of misfortune; and given a situation, (s)he is to flexibly apply the ‘right’ approach. 3. 6 Learning And Unlearning. In Confucianism, learning and education is indeed critical (Low, 2010; 2010a). Confucius stressed very much on learning and he himself set an example of continuous learning throughout his life. â€Å"The Master said, ‘At fifteen, I set my heart on learning; at thirty I took my stand; at forty I came to be free from doubts; at fifty I understood the Decree of Heaven; at sixty my ear was attuned; at seventy I followed my heart’s desire without overstepping the line. ’† (Confucius – The Analects, Chapter II, verse 4). Confucius stressed on learning; learning prevents one from being narrow-minded. For Confucius, it is important for individuals to learn. He used learning to correct his mistakes and improve himself, and he in fact considered Junzi (a gentleman/lady) as a person eager to study. Confucius said, â€Å"The gentleman seeks neither a full belly nor a comfortable home. He is quick in Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)124 action but cautious in speech. He goes to men possessed of the Way to be put right. Such a man can be described as eager to learn. † Overall then, the Confucians see it as bad to eat one’s fill all day long, and do nothing to nourish the mind. † (Low, 2010, 2008). On the other hand, Taoism stresses on unlearning (perhaps even undoing bureaucracy or procedures), and here it can be seen as being simple is both wise and good. Lao Tzu encouraged people to unlearn their learning for then they would not have any anxiety (Tao Te Ching, Verse 20). Simplicity is indeed embraced and it is wise not to overemphasize or complicate things (Low, 2009). To the Taoists, the Confucian’s pursuit of knowledge has divided people and things (creating distinctions and differences between men and animals/ other creatures) as well as having complicated life; they also argue that it can also cause contention for profits and fame. Life is indeed simple, and it is good not to over do things; when eating just eat and when sleeping, just sleep; and in living, just live. More so, one cannot learn with an occupied mind, one cannot fill a full cup unless it’s emptied; one should not overanalyze too. Lao Tzu speaks of â€Å"stop thinking and end your problems† (Verse 20, Tao de ching). Figure 2: shows a summary of key differences between Confucianism and Taoism Human Living and Spirituality Practicality And Esotericism Groupings, Categorization and Non-Categorization/ Dualities And Oneness Filial Piety And Nature Rites And Beyond Rites Or Rigidity Versus Flexibility Learning And Unlearning 4 Conclusion Both Confucianism and Taoism, having been home-grown in China and developed in almost total isolation from the rest of the world, have played a major role in the country’s three thousand Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net. Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)125 years of history. And perhaps the world and the people can learn, apply and adapt the finer points and wisdom of Confucianism and Taoism into their lives. And to paraphrase Yu Dan (2009: 187), wherever we are, we can let the spiritual power of Confucianism and/or Taoism combine with our present laws and rules, fusing seamlessly together to become an essential part of our lives, to let each of us build for ourselves a truly worthwhile life. This is surely the ultimate significance of Confucius and/or Taoism in our lives today. References Confucius (1915) (Contributors: Dawson, Miles Menander) The ethics of Confucius: The sayings of the Master and his disciples upon the conduct of â€Å"The Superior Man†. G. P. Putnam’s Sons: New York. Fung, Y. L. (1948) A short history of Chinese philosophy, The Free Press: New York. Lau, D. C. (1979) Confucius The Analects (Lun Yu), The Penguin Books: England. Li, Y. Y. (1996) Chinese traditional values and characteristics of Chinese health behavior. (in Chinese) Chinese psychology and therapy, Laureate Book Co. : Taipei. Low, K. C. P. (forthcoming) ‘Confucian ethics’ in Idowu, S. O. (ed. ), (2011) Encyclopedia of corporate social responsibility, Heidelberg: Springer-Verlag Low, K. C. P. (2010) ‘Values make a leader, the Confucian perspective’, Insights to a changing world journal, Volume 2010 Issue 2, p. 13 – 28. Low, K. C. P. (2010a) ‘Teaching and Education: the ways of Confucius’, Educational research, December 2010 Special issues, p. 681- 686. Franklin Publishing Company www. franklinpublishing. net Conflict Resolution Negotiation (Volume 2011 Issue 4)126 Low, K. C. P. (2010b) â€Å"Zen and leadership – Growing one’s leadership excellence†, Insights to a changing world, Volume 2010 Issue 1, p. 1 10. Low, K. C. P. (2009) ‘Lao Tzu’s three treasures, leadership organizational growth’, Leadership organizational management journal, Volume 2009, Issue 3, p 27 – 36. Low, K. C. P. (2008) ‘Value-based leadership: Leading, the Confucian way’, Leadership organizational management journal, Volume 2008 Issue 3, p. 32 – 41. Low, K. C. P. (2008a) ‘Leadership thoughts to ponder – Some classic sins of leadership’, Leadership organizational management journal, Volume 2008 Issue 4, p. 65 75. Low, K. C. P. (2008b) ‘Father leadership and small businesses in Singapore – Case revisited’, Leadership and organization management journal (LOM), Vol. 2008 Issue 3, p. 68 82. Low, K. C. P. (2008c) ‘Confucian ethics social responsibility – The golden rule responsibility to the stakeholders’, Ethics critical thinking journal, Volume 2008 Issue 4, p. 46 54. Low, K. C. P. and Ang, S. L. (2010), ‘Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)’, Chinese Medicine, Vol. 1 No. 3 (Dec 2010) p. 84 90, (Published Online http://www. SciRP. org/journal/cm). Low, K.