Minorities Leaders

How Do Various Minorities Leaders Differ In Their Leadership Approaches? To me, there are no differences between the leadership approaches of minorities and majorities leaders. The minorities’ leaders also have their own leadership style depending on their traits and circumstances like all other leaders in the world. Leaders perform their roles in a wide multiplicity of styles, such as autocratic, democratic, participatory, laissez-faire (hands off), etc. Frequently the leadership style depends on the state of affairs, together with the life cycle of the association. There are circumstances where the Laissez-Faire leadership style can be successful. The Laissez-Faire technique is generally only suitable when leading a team of greatly aggravated and accomplished people, who have created outstanding performance in the past. Once leader either from minorities or majorities has recognized that one’s team is convinced, competent and provoked, it is frequently most excellent to step back and let them get on with the assignment, since interference can cause bitterness and detract from their success. (Dessler, 2001) By handing over possession, a leader can authorize one’s group to attain their objectives. The autocratic leader controls team-members, using unilateralism to attain a singular goal. This approach to leadership in general results in submissive confrontation from team members and requires persistent force and route from the leader in order to get assignments finished. Commonly, an authoritarian leadership style is not a superior way to get the paramount performance from a group of people. (Bridges, 2000) There are, though, a few illustrations where an autocratic style of leadership may not be unsuitable. Some circumstances may call for imperative action, and in these situations an autocratic style of leadership may be finest. Additionally, most people are proverbial with autocratic leadership and consequently have fewer troubles accepting this style. The democratic leader either from minorities or majorities finalizes decisions by discussing with the team, despite the fact that still sustaining authority on the group. The democratic leader permits his team to make a decision how the assignment will be handled and who will carry out which assignment. In conclusion, there are no differences between the leadership approaches of minorities and majorities leaders, References Bridges, William, and Susan Mitchell Bridges, (Spring 2000), â€Å"Leading Transition: A New Model for Change† Leader to Leader. 16: 30-36. Dessler, Gary. (2001), Management, Leading People and Organizations in the 21st Century, (2nd ed.), New Jersey: Prentice Hall, Inc.      

René Descartes Essay

â€Å"My purpose is to persuade all those who think metaphysics worth studying that it is absolutely necessary to pause a moment and, regarding all that has been done as though undone, to propose first the preliminary question, ‘Whether such a thing as metaphysics can be even possible at all? ’† (Kant 233) These types of questions asked by philosopher Immanuel Kant revolutionized the way humans make sense of the world, and more specifically how the human mind functions. Kant shed a light on prior theories and analogies, eliminating some of the most important beliefs as â€Å"unjustifiable†. He synthesized the two prior beliefs of Rationalism and Empiricism, and preached that in our world, â€Å"Concepts without intuitions are empty, intuitions without concepts are blind†. (Fehir) I believe that Kant’s Constructivism is a superior alternative to Rationalism and Empiricism. Before Kant’s idea of constructivism, philosopher David Hume made a claim that all objects of human reason or enquiry may naturally be divided into two kinds; relations of ideas, and matters of fact. In simpler terms, all knowledge must either be classified as a prior (prior knowledge), or posteriori (post knowledge). Kant’s put this theory to a test and asked â€Å"if a truth is not true because of our experiences, nor is it true because of the grammar or meanings of the sentences of our language, how else could it be defined? †(Higgins and Martin 232) Kant synthesized rationalism and empiricism by discarding their flaws and combining their strengths. Grisell 2 Kant agrees with philosophers such as Pluto and Descartes that there are innate ideas. Knowledge of the nature of reality derives from ideas of the intellect, not the senses. The concept of self, substance, and identity do not need to be tested through science; we know they exist simply by thinking and understanding. Furthermore, Kant agrees that the self is real and discernible through immediate intellectual intuition. This understanding relates to Cogito ergo sum, a statement from Descartes, which recognizes that someone wondering whether or not he or she exists is, in and of itself, proof that something, an â€Å"I†, exists to do the thinking. Kant also agrees with philosophers such as Aristotle and Hume who state that our senses are the primary, or only, source of knowledge of world. For example, we know that water boils at 212 degrees because we have observed it through experience. Kant explains that there are two different worlds; the phenomenal (apparent) world versus the noumenal (real) world. The phenomenal world is a world of things, publicly observable, describable by science, known to the senses, and determined by physical laws. In this world, we can generate facts through trial and experiment, using our senses to determine a definitive answer (e. g. water boils at 212 degrees). Through Kant’s improved theory of constructivism, he can make conclusions based upon his findings. Both rationalism and empiricism are wrong when they claim that we can know things in themselves. Rationalists are wrong not to trust senses; in the phenomenal world, senses are all we have. Hume is wrong when he claims the concept of self is unsupported by senses, and therefore false. Rather, the experiencing self is a pre-condition for having any experience at all (Descartes was right). Kant’s â€Å"Copernican revolution of the mind† synthesized rationalism and empiricism. What Kant suspected, and what many philosophers believe today, is that â€Å"our â€Å"ideas†-our Grisell 3 concepts and our language- do not just correspond to reality but in some sense shape and â€Å"set-up† the world, impose upon the world (and) the structures we experience. † (Higgins and Martin 230) He believes that objects conform to knowledge. An example that displays this type of thinking is the Abraham Lincoln analogy. If a fuzzy picture of Abraham Lincoln is displayed to someone who is familiar with what Abraham Lincoln looks like, they can make sense of the image and acknowledge what they are seeing. A person who has no clue what Abraham Lincoln looks like will have no understand of what their eyes are viewing. This requires prior knowledge from a person, gained through personal experience using their eyes. Although it is simply an analogy, this type of idea was what gave Kant the principle of Synthetic a prior. Kant’s revolution changed our conception of reality, our conception of knowledge, and most importantly, our concept of ourselves. I personally believe that Kant gave philosophers a definitive solution to how the mind and our reality interact. He gave philosophers a renewed ideal of certainty, for he argued that we can be certain of the rules of our own experience. I think Kant says it best when he says, â€Å"reality is the world of our experience, as we constitute it through the concepts of our understanding† (Kant 232) Grisell 4 Work Cited Higgins, Kathleen M. , and Clancy Martin. â€Å"Knowledge; Kant’s Revolution. † Introducing Philosophy. By Robert C. Solomon. 10th ed. New York: Oxford UP, 2012. 230-33. Print. LaFave, Sandra. â€Å"Kant: The â€Å"Copernican Revolution† in Philosophy. † Kant: The â€Å"Copernican Revolution† in Philosophy. N. p. , n. d. Web. 02 Nov. 2012. Fehir, Aaron. â€Å"Hume’s Fork and the Problem of Causality. † Lecture.

Universities should prepare students better to work

Newest reports are not certain if students are prepared to work. Job market isn't getting any easier for them and too many students are graduating from college unprepared. Reason for this situation is that universities aren't giving students the right guidance. Colleges should have better qualified career-center staff gulled their students and help them with future choices.However those people should have some experience hen it comes to giving advice. Having inexperienced people in career-center is a huge problem for students who end up getting advice from not qualified people who have never done any actual hiring themselves and don't have a first-hand understanding of what employers are looking for. On the other hand In colleges students can have work placement during their studies and unalterably can provide them or support students during them.What colleges really need is talking about careers before graduation in order to get dead for Job and be sure what they're going to do. Man y people pick their major without nothing anything about it or not fully understand it and they don't have a clear view about their obligations in workplace. On the other hand students can learn those things during Internship and experience It by themselves and start to learn from simple things at the begging and then be fully Independent and skilled. Practice Is the best form of learning and gives many advantages for the future career.Help students understand that a degree alone won't get them a Job. Too many students graduate with the belief that their degree will lead straight to a Job-setting the stage for a painful wake-up call when they realize that In most fields, a degree Is simply a Romulus qualification, not an Instant pass to easy employment. Nowadays more and more people have a degree (in our country 48,5 % odd population) , in order to get a Job graduates should have other additional abilities for example : foreign languages .On the other hand if student is really good in that one thing he can get a bob without graduating and potential employer can contact him and offer an interesting Job offer. Sometimes abilities speak for themselves and students can receive a Job offer without any experience. Some people will claim that universities should better prepare students to work and it is not only up for students what they are going to carry out from college and how effective it will be . Students should have good take care of them and should have support how they need to ,because college Is only a beginning of entire journey for

Development of an integrated marketing communication mix strategy for Essay

Development of an integrated marketing communication mix strategy for an IT brand such as HP or intel planning to enter a new but very competitive market such as Russia or China - Essay Example Shanghai and Beijing have been significantly analyzed in the report as the initial base for the company. Integrated Marketing Communication (UMC) has shown substantial effects on business world especially with respect to the international networks of multinational companies (Gould, Grein, & Lerman, 1999; Kitchen & Schultz, 2003). It has been considered as one of the major developments of communication of the last phase of the 20th century (Kitchen & Schultz, 1999, p.34) and thus most organizations claim it as the key competitive advantage of their marketing strategies. Duncan (2005) defines the terms IMC as a â€Å"collective term for all the various types of planned messages used to build a brand†, marketing communication integrates advertising, public relations, sales promotion, direct marketing, personal selling, packaging, events and sponsorships, and customer service† (Duncan, 2005, p.7). Due to numbers of factors, the significance and recognition of IMC has grown up. These factors include the increasing trends in media fragmentations (Kotler et al. 2005), increasing segmentation of consumer needs (Schwartz, 2001), easy access to consumer database (McGoon, 1999 & Reich, 1998), and the development of a brand’s image-based equity (Schultz 1999 & Wood 1997). Besides application of IMC related to consumers, most of the authors agree that it has significant application to target non-consumer stakeholders as well like employers, investors, and regulators (Belch, 2002). Kitchen (2003) argues that corporate communication and IMC has substantial implications for the cost-effectiveness of particular organizations. Corporate communication targets the stakeholders by applying advertising campaigns, financial relations, and by offering corporate sponsorships (Semenik, 2002), while non-customer stakeholders are targeted to brief

For this part of the assignment you must research a Serious Case Essay

For this part of the assignment you must research a Serious Case Review concerning a child in the UK aged between birth and 16 y - Essay Example The court proceeding were held on 4th August, 2011 and was presided over by Judge Caddick. Child D was born in 2010 in Kent. The child and her mother resided at the same address immediately after birth. Kent County Council had raised concerns of the child even before its birth. The local authority raised fears that the child was not in good hands since her mother was viewed as her child herself. Her mother was under police protection in Surrey County Council but she principally resided in Kent. The only option left in regards to the custody of child was for the child to be taken up by foster parents in a location where they resided. After birth, Child D and the mother stayed under foster care in Kent after which the mother was transferred to police protection in Surrey County Council. However, Child D remained under the care of foster parents in Kent County Council (Family Justice Review, 2011). Kent Count Council had applied for the Custody of the child and they were granted. The ru ling was made in regards to Section 31(1) (a) of the Children Act 1989: â€Å"placing the child with respect to whom the application is made in the care of the designated local authority†. The 4th August, 2011 court ruling was an appeal on the case made by the Surrey County Council. ... At the same time Surrey County Council could not release the mother since she was under protective custody in the address. However, Kent County Council argues that they had the right to grant the child a proper family to enable it to grow in a normal family setting. Additionally, under protective custody the mother was not in the right position to raise the child effectively considering the limitations she had at protected custody (Family Justice Review, 2011). Legally, the case was against the arguments by Surrey County Council as the law stipulates custody should be granted to the local authority which requested for custody and the local authority to which the child was given birth to (Howe, 2009). In this case, the child and her mother were principally residents of Kent County Council and this was enough to grant the local authority custody of child D under the provisions of Section 31(1) (a) of the Children Act 1989. In this particular case, with the mother of child in protected custody and the child at a critical age the case became a serious case review with a lot at stake in regards to the most appropriate decision that would make the child comfortable. In an argument by Mawby (2008) a case concerning a child immediately from birth makes the case critical since its future life will greatly depend on the care it’s given at its first stages of life. The case of custody in regards to local authorities has been provided for by numerous legislations. In the U.K the role authorities in child care and protection is significant as the bodies are given great mandate to determine the status of each and every child in the counties. In the Children Act 1989, Local authorities are given great mandate to claim

Complete Document Needs Review Form and Edit Draft Proposal Assignment

Complete Document Needs Review Form and Edit Draft Proposal - Assignment Example The committee is expected to meet at least four times in the remaining calendar year. The committee shall decide whether the newsletter will be a public relations tool or the employees’ information tool. Therefore, the committee’s worked is pegged on the approval of both the Director of Human Resources and the Chief Executive Officer of Compare Services, Inc.; additionally, before the committee decides on whether the newsletter should be a public relations device or an employee information tool, it will sought the same approval. Office space will be provided by using the space allocated to the Human Relations employee tasked with arranging and coordinating production of the newsletter. This person will get $3400 over and above their current salary. Notably, this budget is subject to recalculated if the committee decides that the newsletter should be distributed to customers as a public relations vehicle instead of just to be an employee

Global warming Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Global warming - Essay Example I disagree with this opinion because I believe global warming is happening due to man’s behavior towards the environment. As such, humanity should be concerned. In October 2012, the British newspaper Daily Mail printed an article claiming that global warming had ended in 1996 and a pause had taken place. This was based on some data from the Britain’s Meteorological Office or MET. Supposedly, the temperature of the Earth from 1997 to the present has not risen significantly enough to cause an alarm. Moreover, the report alleges that the Earth’s â€Å"temperature had been stable or declining for about 40 years.† (Rose) Ironically, the author ends his piece by saying that global warming does exist but it is not happening as fast as other people believe. Global warming continues to happen at present, and it is still the most crucial problem the humanity is facing. In the recent report presented in Doha Talks, it was stated that global emissions of carbon dioxid e which is one of the main reason of global warming was at a record high in 2011 and were likely to take a similar jump in 2012. It can therefore be concluded from this data that although some countries are setting limits and precautions, these measures are still failing and as carbon dioxide emissions continues to happen, global warming also continues to get worse. ... in 2007 in the United Nations, it was said that the sea ice is declining much faster than had been predicted and even some scientists think ‘the Arctic Ocean could be largely free of summer ice as soon as 2020†. (Doha Talks) This phenomenon can be attributed to the rapid increase in temperature in the region. Although this can be related to the natural ocean cycle, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a report in November 2011 predicting that global warming will cause more dangerous and â€Å"unprecedented extreme weather† in the future. It is in my opinion that global warming has not stopped since the last Ice Age. Global warming is a current occurrence and factors like climate change and CO2 emissions prove this. Environmental scientist David Keith shares that the Earth is â€Å"a lot warmer that it was since... the ice ages 10,000 years ago.† (Lamb) Man contributed a lot to this warming by filling the environment with polluted air. As ma n became more civilized, he created things that have, eventually, caused harm to the planet. In a recent study about the impact of Asian carbon aerosols on the United States, researchers discovered that the amount of air pollution Asian countries make overshadows the amount of greenhouse gases reduced in the United States. Therefore, even if Americans are able to clean up their air some, Asians manage to make it dirty again. In Beijing, China, for example, around 27 million tons of coal was used in 2010. (Park and Min) It can be drawn out from this that as long as human activities that cause global warming to worsen, it would continuously gets worse as well. Undeniably, not all countries and not every citizen are working to resolve this issue. It is a fact that humans are still negligent at some point in

Comparison between Chile- Haiti Earthquakes Research Paper

Comparison between Chile- Haiti Earthquakes - Research Paper Example An earthquake is a natural occurrence that takes place when an oceanic plate collides with the land plates thus causing an impulse. The resulting impulse between the two plates is always of a higher magnitude. It is this nature of earthquake’s higher magnitude that always causes the distractions of even stronger things including buildings, vehicles, heavy machinery among others. Earthquakes have mostly been experienced in most of Latin American countries compared to other continents. Some of these countries include Haiti and Chile. These two countries experienced what has been said to be two of the greatest earthquakes among other earthquakes in other countries. These earthquakes occurred respectively in these countries within a span of a year, causing death and destruction of properties which in turn resulted to affect the countries economically. Even though the both earthquakes caused almost similar destruction, the weight of their impacts differed in the respective countrie s. Consequences of the earthquakes As it is expected that earthquakes causes a lot of destruction which in turn tends to cause negative impacts on the victims, so was the case in both Haiti and Chile as they never escaped to face its consequences. Most of the destruction and consequences experienced by both the countries were similar and the main. Even though most of the consequences and destruction experienced by these countries as a result of the earthquakes were similar, the magnitude of their effects of the government and the economy was slightly different. This difference came as e result of their economic stability. The earthquakes had a greater blow to the Haitians compared to the Chileans because Chile’s economy was better compared to Haiti, a country which is among the poorest in the world (Farmer & Joia 87). The 2010 Haiti earthquake caused a lot of destruction which subsequently affected its economy (Castanos, Heriberta & Cinna p44). Some of these distractions were: demolition of buildings including presidential palace and The United Nation Peace keeps Mission. Demolition of buildings, led to one of the major consequences since it resulted in loss of homes. It is evident that close to 105,000 homes were destroyed. Destruction of homes could also mean that individuals whose homes were destroyed with them inside perished as a result. Secondly, demolition of buildings also implies that several industries were also destroyed it is believed that most of them collapsed as a result. This also implied that individuals who were employed in these companies were forced to lose their jobs. The increased number of joblessness and closure of companies eventually affected the economy since these individuals and companies were not able to pay the revenues (Farmer & Joia 87). Another department that was also affected by the earthquake is the transportation department. Transportation became a major problem causing a lot of things to stand still. The earthquake destroyed the cranes at the nearby ports hence making it difficult for the ports to operate. This was so due to the fact that the offloading of goods became a problem even to the ships that were transporting the aid. These ships were forced to inhibit temporarily (Castanos, Heriberta & Cinna 52). These destructions at the port did not only affect the transportation of the aiding goods, they also interrupted the importation and exportation of goods in and out of the country thus affecting the economy. On the other hand, air transport was also not left behind in experiencing this problem. The air transport department especially the Airport International Toussaint L’Ouverture Airport. This airport was also damaged by the earthquake, thereby causing inconvenience since most of the planes were forced to use the nearby airport. The destruction of the airport also impacted the reduction of air travels which further thus reducing incomes and initiating loss of

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

Collaboration - Assignment Example However, this mission would never be achieved owing to the situation in the agency. Similarly, some internal factors are influencing the operations of the agency making it underperform in meeting its goals. EHSA is facing many challenges, which is emanating from the conducts of its employees. The challenges may hinder the agency from realizing the positive results which it wants to deliver to the people since employees are the agents. One of the issues affecting the organization is the lack of commitments among its staffs to serve the people. Customer care services are very poor making some clients to go back unattended. This is very dangerous for the existence of the agency. Secondly, the organizational staffs are breaching confidentiality of client information. In many cases, the workers have openly compared clients information; a practice that is unlawful and punishable. Therefore, the current stage of the agency is below in the inter-organizational process. Hence, there are much more that the agency management needs to do in order to rescue the situation. Many methods and strategies that the agency can use to improve its services and to realize success in all that it does exist and can be put to use. One of the methods is improving customer care service to the level of clients needs and expectations (Woodside & McClam, 2014). Currently, the agency frustrates clients, and most of them go back without being given the attention they demand. Hence, there is a need to restructure personnel who frustrate clients and inform them of the expectation. This may be done by offering training services in areas related to customer service and advising them on the importance of clients to the agency (Rosenthal, 2012). Secondly, the agency can develop a privacy policy aimed at cautioning its employees and giving guidelines in relation to privacy (Rosenthal, 2012). There are many laws that

How Financial and Non Financial Metrics can be used for quantify the Essay - 1

How Financial and Non Financial Metrics can be used for quantify the effectiveness of marketing campaign (Marketing Analytics) - Essay Example Verhoef and Leeflang (2009) assert the idea of financial metrics and state that influence of marketing department in the organisation is positively associated with the financial performance of the firm. Importance and role of the financial metrics for the effectiveness of the marketing campaign can be clearly assessed from the B&K Distributors. The company integrated marketing and communication tool for building its access to the potential customers. The use of the financial measures revealed clear future potential. For example, the growth potential was estimated to increase at 6% as compared to the inflation rate of 3%. Similarly, increased fixed cost for the IT system integration was also justified with 1% as compared to the 3% of the other channels investment (Jeffery and Anfield, 2006). Hence, in the similar format the cost of the entire project is assessed against the revenue and cost savings. This empirical evidence provides sound basis for the decision making in alignment with the main objective of the business which revolves around profitability. However, the net and actual increase in return is not defined after discounting the investment against factors such as the cost o f capital which is 12% and has considerable impact on the return inflows. This makes the investment and the claimed benefits questionable. Also the marketing activities with long term objective are also required to reflect on other parameters such as increase in customer loyalty and image of the company etc. It is important to notice the measure to enhance the image of the company by signing contract with leading fast food chain did not fetch to B&K significant business from independent franchisees. The new plan of IT integration and respective financial metrics and growth projections are again silent on impact on above mentioned parameters. In no contradiction to this fact

Calandrino is the main character in Decameron VIII, 3. He is naive, Essay

Calandrino is the main character in Decameron VIII, 3. He is naive, simpleton, and yet a complex character. Discuss in detail what causes his downfall - Essay Example Calandrino’s first downfall was trust. Maso del Saggio’s was described as fortunate and capable of doing most anything. He was not in Caladrino’s circle of friends. Generally even naà ¯ve and simple people like Caladrino have weariness about an individual from a different class or clique. Instead Caladrino bought Maso del Saggio’s outlandish tale of a far off land where there was a wine river and mozzarella mountain. Not only did believe this story, but Calandrino believed the story of heliotropes in the Mugnone valley. The trust in the popular acquaintance was part of what caused his downfall. Not only did Calandrino trust Maso del Saggio, but he placed his trust in two friends named Bruno and Buffalmacco. This trust should have eroded way before the search for the heliotrope. These two friends must have had many laughs at poor Calandrino’s expense, if the three were friends for a long time as the story implied. The friendship was one of two brighter friends and the scapegoat friend. Men like to buddy up with someone that makes them feel more superior. The two friends felt superior at Calandrino’s naivety and simple mindedness, while Calandrino felt superior for hanging out with two smarter guys. Whatever the reason, Calandrino misplaced his trust in these two. Calandrino might have had a trusting nature towards his friends, but not toward his wife. When he reached home to have his wife see him, Calandrino figured she caused the heliotrope to quit working. The only person to tell him the truth, the wife received a beating for her effort. She was probably the only individual who actually cared for Calandrino enough make plans to make him foolish. She was not above chastising him, but did not go out of her way to play a prank on him. Still his trusting nature did not include his wife. This trust issue was a big part of his downfall. The second reason for

Techniques of Research in Health Essay Example for Free

Techniques of Research in Health Essay STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM Immigrants to the United States represent a substantial and rapidly growing group that totaled more than forty-three million people or 13.5 percent of the U.S population in 2015 (Migration Policy institute (MPI), 2015). Since 1970, this percentage has almost tripled rising from 4.7% of the population to the current 13.5% in 2015 and shows no signs of decreasing (MPI Immigration over time 1850-2015). The inflow of immigrants even into smaller states is having a profound effect on a growing number of local communities as immigrants settle in non-traditional destinations like Minnesota and North Dakota. States that had relatively low percentages of immigrants are seeing these populations grow by big margins up to 90 percent in some cases  (Derose, K. et al, 2007). The make-up of this immigrant population is diverse, for instance, India was the leading country of origin for recent immigrants, with 179,800 arriving in 2015, followed by 143,200 from China, 139,400 from Mexico, 47,500 from the Philippines, and 46,800 from Canada. In 2013, India and China overtook Mexico as the top origin countries for recent arrivals. While Minnesota still has proportionally fewer immigrants than the U.S. as a whole with 8.3% of its population being immigrants compared to 13.5% nationally, the state’s foreign-born population is actually increasing faster than the national average. (Immigration Overview Minnesota Compass)In Minnesota, the number of immigrants has tripled since 1990, but nationally it only doubled. Immigrants are among the fastest growing populations in Minnesota, growing by 76 percent since 2000, compared with a 12 percent growth rate for the states population overall. This translates to around 457,000 Minnesota residents who are foreign-born by the end of 2015, including many refugees who fled their home countries. Over 80% of these immigrant groups are concentrated in the 7-county twin cities metro area. (Immigration Overview Minnesota Compass) Immigrants are often identified  as a vulnerable population, that is, a group at increased risk for poor physical, psychological, and social health outcomes and inadequate health care. The vulnerability is shaped by many factors, including political and social marginalization and a lack of socioeconomic and societal resources. Addressing the health care needs of immigrant populations is challenging both because of the heterogeneity of this group and because recent federal and state policies have restricted some immigrants’ access to health care. These policies have exacerbated existing differences in access, for example, legal residents versus undocumented and long-term residents versus recent arrivals. The stigma associated with some forms of immigration status; for example, undocumented versus refugee, can also contribute to vulnerability. (https://studymoose.com/issues-facing-latino-immigrants-in-todays-political-climate-essay). Given immigrant’s concentration in the 7-county twin cities metro area, a major public health concern is their access to health services. At present in the United States, health insurance is the best way to ensure access to health care. A key provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is the requirement that private insurance plans cover recommended preventive services without any patient cost-sharing. This provision is important because it increases access to preventive healthcare by lowering costs and eliminating some costs. According to the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured, uninsured individuals are less likely to receive preventive care or care for routine medical conditions and injuries. Lack of preventive health care and lack of treatment for medical conditions can lead to more serious illnesses and health problems. This, in turn, can result in hospitalizations and deaths that could have been prevented. (Health Key Measures Minnesota Compass). As these Immigrant groups assimilate and acclimatize into the system, the issue of Immigrant access to health care falls off as they begin to work and can gain access to health insurance through their employers. Existing literature suggests that there is a disparity in the utilization of healthcare in general and even preventive health care. Statement of the problem Preventive care includes health services like screenings, check-ups, and patient counseling that are used to prevent illnesses, disease, and other health problems, or to detect illness at an early stage when treatment is likely to work best. Getting recommended preventive services and making healthy lifestyle choices are key steps to good health and well-being. The existing literature on preventive care tends to focus on access to these procedures and even those few that are focused on utilization are mainly leaning towards individuals already diagnosed with specific disease states such as diabetes. However, since preventive care utilization recommendations are intended for all eligible individuals, it would seem more appropriate to apply a broader view on the use of preventive care services among healthy, disease-free individuals. (Prevention | Office of the Associate Director for Policy | CDC) The significance of the problem The purpose of this study is to analyze trends in the utilization of preventive care services among eligible immigrant groups in the twin cities area and comparing it to that of the non-immigrant population. Findings from this study will assist in identifying subpopulations that are not utilizing preventive care services adequately, thereby increasing their risk for developing chronic conditions. Taking a broad approach through predicting the use of preventive care services for all eligible individuals will draw the attention of policymakers towards individuals less likely to use health promotion and prevention services, and thus enable appropriate health care intervention recommendations. Research questions This study will seek to answer the following research questions: What are the rates of utilization of preventive health care among these different immigrant subgroups in the twin cities? What is the rate of utilization of preventive health care among the non-immigrant population in the twin cities? What are the differences or similarities in preventive healthcare utilization rates among the different subgroups and the non-immigrant population? Assumptions The study assumes that all participants will answer truthfully to all the questions, to this end, all participants are informed of their anonymity and confidentiality that will be preserved. The participants are informed about their right to withdraw from the study at any time and with no ramifications. Limitations This study depends on self-reports of participants, it is possible for participants to provide answers that they deem to be socially acceptable even if not true. The interviewer will prod for more accurate answers by trying to reformulate the question where they believe this to be the case. Access to these subgroups is dependent on social contacts information and although helpful, it may not be representative of the subgroups. A profile of each subgroup can help eliminate potential variations created by this limitation. This study also designates a geographical region, the 7-county twin cities metro area. The study assumes that the sample in the metro is representative of those in the greater Minnesota. Given the cultural heterogeneity of the participants, the researcher may not be culturally competent in the different cultures and may have to depend on a guidance from social contacts. The time needed to conduct this study is limited and therefore requires a limited sample size. Delimitations Focus on Immigrant groups in the twin cities metro area provide convenience in location of residence and the concentration of immigrants as opposed to those living in the greater Minnesota. Some immigrant groups originate from areas where healthy practices are automatically built into their lifestyles. For instance, if you cannot afford to buy a vehicle, then you will have to walk to and from the nearest means of public transportation. Likewise, some immigrant groups do not go to visit a doctor or a hospital unless they are unwell. These differences inspired the focus on gauging utilization of preventive health care services. The sample size will be determined by the subgroups population proportion to the population of Minnesota. This research will focus on adults with health insurance; this is so as to eliminate access to preventive health procedures as a variable in the study. Definition of terms Preventive healthcare: Health procedures including screenings, immunizations, and counseling. The study will select six overall procedures two from each category. Utilization: The measure of the populations use of the health care services available to them. The term immigrants also are known as the foreign born refers to people residing in the United States who were not U.S. citizens at birth. This population includes naturalized citizens, lawful permanent residents, certain legal nonimmigrants like persons on student or work visas, those admitted under refugee or asylee status.( U.S. Immigrant Population and Share over Time, 1850 ) References: Derose  KP,  Escarce  J,  Lurie  N.  Immigrants and health care: sources of vulnerability.  Health Aff.  2007;26(5):1258–1268. Migration Policy Institute (MPI) tabulation of data from U.S. Census Bureau, 2010-2015 American Community Surveys (ACS), and 1970, 1990, and 2000 Decennial Census. All other data are from Campbell J. Gibson and Emily Lennon, Historical Census Statistics on the Foreign-Born Population of the United States: 1850 to 1990 (Working Paper no. 29., U.S. Census Bureau, Washington, DC, 1999). U.S Census Bureau, Selected Characteristics of the Native and Foreign-Born Populations: 2016 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates https://factfinder.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_16_1YR_S0501prodType=table. L.J. Larsen, â€Å"The Foreign-Born Population in the United States: 2003,† Current Population Reports no. P20-551, August 2004, Fuseya, Y., Yamamoto, Y., Takahashi, T., Naito, D., Shima, K., Takahashi, K., Sakai, N. (2016). A62 CLINICAL ASPECTS OF CAP, HCAP, HAP, AND VAP: Social Factors On Hospitalization Period Of Elderly Patients With Pneumonia In Japan. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 193, 1.

Indonesian Ideology

Indonesian Ideology IDEOLOGY OF INDONESIA CHAPTER 1 Ideology of Indonesia I. Introduction Ideology An ideology is a set of aims and ideas that directs ones goals, expectations, and actions. An ideology can be thought of as a comprehensive vision, as a way of looking at things, as in common sense and several philosophical tendencies, or a set of ideas proposed by the dominant class of a society to all members of this society or a received consciousness or product of socialization. The main purpose behind an ideology is to offer change in society, and adherence to a set of ideals where conformity already exists, through a normative thought process. Ideologies are systems of abstract thought as opposed to mere ideation applied to public matters and thus make this concept central to politics. Implicitly every political tendency entails an ideology whether or not it is propounded as an explicit system of thought. The term ideology was born in the highly controversial, philosophical and political debates and fights of the French Revolution and acquired several other meanings from the early days of the First French Empire to the present. The word ideology was coined by Destutt de Tracy in 1796 assembling the parts idea and -logy. He used it to refer to one aspect of his science of ideas. He separated three aspects, namely: ideology, general grammar and logic, considering respectively the subject, the means and the reason of this science. He argues that among these aspects ideology is the most generic term, because the science of ideas also contains the study of their expression and deduction. Perhaps the most accessible source for the near-original meaning of ideology is Hippolyte Taines work. He describes ideology as rather like teaching philosophy by the Socratic Method, but without extending the vocabulary beyond what the general reader already possessed and without the examples from observation that practical science would require. Taine identifies it not just with Destutt De Tracy, but also with his milieu, and includes Condillac as one of its precursors. Tracy read the works of Locke and Condillac while he was imprisoned during the Reign of Terror. After we know what is ideology? From the other side, we will know analysis of ideology from politics side and another side. Many point of ideology and we can analysis about ideology. Analysis of ideology Meta-ideology posits that ideology is a coherent system of ideas, relying upon a few basic assumptions about reality that may or may not have any factual basis, but are subjective choices that serve as the seed around which further thought grows. According to this perspective, ideologies are neither right nor wrong, but only a relativistic intellectual strategy for categorizing the world. The pluses and minuses of ideology range from the vigor and fervor of true believers to ideological infallibility. Excessive need for certitude lurks at fundamentalist levels in politics, religions, and elsewhere. The works of George Walford and Harold Walsby, done under the heading of systematic ideology, are attempts to explore the relationships between ideology and social systems. David W. Minar describes six different ways in which the word ideology has been used: 1. As a collection of certain ideas with certain kinds of content, usually normative; 2. As the form or internal logical structure that ideas have within a set; 3. By the role in which ideas play in human-social interaction; 4. By the role that ideas play in the structure of an organization; 5. As meaning, whose purpose is persuasion; and 6. As the locus of social interaction, possibly. For Willard A. Mullins, an ideology is composed of four basic characteristics: 1. it must have power over cognition 2. it must be capable of guiding ones evaluations; 3. it must provide guidance towards action; 4. As stated above, must be logically coherent. Mullins emphasizes that an ideology should be contrasted with the related but different issues of utopia and historical myth. The German philosopher Christian Duncker called for a critical reflection of the ideology concept at 2006. In his work, he bring the concept of ideology into the foreground, as well as the closely connected concerns of epistemology and history. In this work, the term ideology is defined in terms of a system of presentations that explicitly or implicitly claim to absolute truth. Though the word ideology is most often found in political discourse, there are many different kinds of ideology: political, social, epistemological, ethical, and so on. Ideology as an instrument of social reproduction Ideologue: Karl Marx posits that a societys dominant ideology is integral to its superstructure. In the Marxist economic base and superstructure model of society, base denotes the relations of production, and superstructure denotes the dominant ideology (religious, legal, political systems). The economic base of production determines the political superstructure of a society. Ruling class interests determine the superstructure and the nature of the justifying ideology actions feasible because the ruling control classes the means of production. Hence the great importance of the ideology justifying a society. Chronologically, the dominant ideologies in Capitalism are: 1. classical liberalism 2. modern liberalism 3. social democracy 4. neo-liberalism Corresponding to these three capitalist stages of development: 1. extensive stage 2. intensive stage 3. contemporary capitalism (late capitalism) In the Marxist formulation of â€Å"ideology as an instrument of social reproduction† is conceptually important to the sociology of knowledge, viz. Karl Mannheim, Daniel Bell, and Jurgen Habermas. Moreover, Mannheim has developed, and progressed, from the total but special Marxist conception of ideology to a general and total ideological conception acknowledging that all ideology (including Marxism) resulted from social life, an idea developed by the sociologist Pierre Bourdieu. â€Å"Ideology has no history† while ideology has a history interleaved with the general class struggle of society. The general form of ideology is external of ideology, Ideas are material, explains his materialistic attitude, which he illustrated with the scandalous advice of Pascal toward unbelievers: kneel and pray, and then you will believe, thus highlighting that beliefs and ideas are a product of social practices, and not the reverse. However, this mustnt be misunderstood as simple behaviorism, as there may be, as Pierre Macherey put it, a subjectivity without subject; in other words, a form of non-personal liberty, as in Deleuzes conception of becoming-other. Feminism as critique of ideology Naturalizing socially constructed patterns of behavior has always been an important mechanism in the production and reproduction of ideologies. Feminist theorists have paid close attention to these mechanisms. Adrienne Rich e.g. has shown how to understand motherhood as a social institution. However, feminism is not a homogeneous whole, and some corners of feminist thought criticize the critique of social constructionist, by advocating that it disregards too much of human nature and natural tendencies. The debate, they say, is about the normative/naturalistic fallacy—the idea that just something being natural does not necessarily mean it ought to be the case. Political ideologies Many political parties base their political action and program on an ideology. In social studies, a Political Ideology is a certain ethical set of ideals, principles, doctrines, myths or symbols of a social movement, institution, class, or large group that explains how society should work, and offers some political and cultural blueprint for a certain social order. A political ideology largely concerns itself with how to allocate power and to what ends it should be used. Some parties follow a certain ideology very closely, while others may take broad inspiration from a group of related ideologies without specifically embracing any one of them. Political ideologies have two dimensions: 1. Goals: How society should work (or be arranged). 2. Methods: The most appropriate ways to achieve the ideal arrangement. Political ideologies are concerned with many different aspects of a society, some of which are: the economy, education, health care, labor law, criminal law, the justice system, the provision of social security and social welfare, trade, the environment, minors, immigration, race, use of the military, patriotism and established religion. Epistemological ideologies There are critics who view science as an ideology in itself, or being an effective ideology, called Scientology. Some scientists respond that, while the scientific method is itself an ideology, as it is a collection of ideas, there is nothing particularly wrong or bad about it. Other critics point out that while science itself is not a misleading ideology, there are some fields of study within science that are misleading. Two examples discussed here are in the fields of ecology and economics. Deep ecology and modern ecology movement appear to have adopted ecological sciences as a positive ideology. Some accuse ecological economics of likewise turning scientific theory into political economy, although theses in that science can often be tested. The modern practice of green economics fuses both approaches and seems to be part science, part ideology. Ideology and semiotic theory Ideology identifies a unitary object that incorporates complex sets of meanings with the social agents and processes that produced them. No other Term captures this object as well as ‘ideology. Foucaults ‘episteme is too narrow and abstract, not social enough. His ‘discourse, popular because it covers some of ‘ideologys terrain with less baggage, is too confined to verbal systems. ‘Worldview is too metaphysical, ‘propaganda too loaded. Despite or because of its contradictions, ‘ideology still plays a key role in semiotics oriented to social, political life. Authors such as Michael Freeden have also recently incorporated a semantic analysis to the study of ideologies. II. Pancasila We know Pancasila is our Ideology, from the research ideology Indonesia have many point of view. We can see ideology from Pancasila according Etymologist, according history, according Terminologies. Besides that we can see meaning about Pancasila from Soekarno, Muhammad Yamin, and Jakarta charter. Pancasila as an ideology as the state ideals or the ideals that became the basis for a theory or system of state for all peoples and nations of Indonesia, as well as a life goal Indonesian base on TAP. MPR XVIII/MPR/1998 of MPR Revocation of P4, emphasized that Pancasila is the foundation of the Republic of Indonesia which have carried out consistently in the life of nation and state. The word is derived from Pancasila Sansakerta (Buddhism) that is required to achieve Nirvana five Basic Doctrine, namely 1. Do not take a life of living things / Prohibited kill. 2. Do not take the goods of others / No stealing 3. Do not touch sex / Prohibited commit adultery 4. Do not say fake / forbidden to lie / lied. 5. Never mind that eliminates / prohibited liquor. Adapted by the Javanese to 5 M = Opium/ drunk, Thiet/ steal, chase after women./ Girl, Playing/ Gambling, Mateni / Kill. Pancasila words originally contained in the library of the Buddhist Tripitaka in the book where the teaching of the Buddhist is a moral teaching to reach nirvana / heaven through the contents of five Pancasila III.Historical On 01 June 1945 was Ir. Sukarnos speech without notes on the formulation of Pancasila as the Basic State. On August 17, 1945 Indonesia proclaimed independence, then the next day August 18, 1945 declared including the 1945 opening statement in which there is in it as a Basic Principle 5 State of the Pancasila as name. Since then Indonesian Pancasila became common. So although the 4th paragraph of the Preamble the Constitution contained no term 45 Pancasila is basic but the State of RI is called the term of this Pancasila interpretation (translation) especially in the context of the historical formation of the State of formula. III. Understanding of Pancasila in Terminologies Proclamation of August 17, 1945 has given birth to the State of RI State Equipment complete PPKI tools a hearing on August 18, 1945 and successfully passed the Constitution in section four which consists of opening the 4th paragraph of Pancasila formulation contained therein. Formulation of Pancasila is a legitimate and constitutional right as the basis of the state of RI PPKI passed by the representative of the entire people of Indonesia. Pancasila shaped: 1. Hierarchical (tiered) 2. Pyramid A. Pancasila by Mr. Moh Yamin is presented in the trial BPUPKI on May 29, 1945 the following contents: 1. Nationality 2. Humanism 3. Divinity 4. Democracy 5. Social Prosperity B. Pancasila by Ir. Sukarno delivered on June 1, 1945 date at the trial BPUPKI, as follows: 1. Nationalistic Indonesia 2. Humanism 3. Democracy 4. Social Prosperity 5. culture President proposes to 5 Principles can be squeezed into Trisila namely: 1. Socio National: Nationalism and Internationalism; 2. Socio Democracy: Democracy with the welfare of the people; 3. God. And still according to Ir. Soekarno Trisila still be squeezed into the Ekasila or the point is Satusila Mutual Aid. C. Five Principles according to the Jakarta Charter adopted on June 22, 1945 the following formula: 1. Belief in the Islamic obligation to run a follower-followers; 2. Humanity is just and civilized; 3. Unity of Indonesia; 4. Democracy guided by the wisdom and deliberation amongst representatives; 5. Social justice for all people of Indonesia; Conclusion of the various terms of Pancasila is a legitimate and constitutional right of Pancasila which is listed in the Preamble UUD 45, it is strengthened by the MPRS decree and Presidential Instruction No. NO.XXI/MPRS/1966. 12 dated 13 April 1968 which confirms that the pronunciation, writing and formulation of the State of RI Pancasila legitimate and correct which is as stated in the Preamble Uud 1945. After that, we can know point of view about ideology of Indonesia or Pancasila from philosophy of pancasila, the original philosophy, base on Soekarno speech, base on Soeharto speech, After we knew philosophy of Indonesia is Pancasila. In fact the definition of philosophy in the philosophy of Pancasila has been modified and interpreted differently by some philosophers Indonesia. Pancasila discourse made since 1945. Pancasila philosophy is always updated in accordance with the demand of the ruling regime, so that Pancasila is different from time to time. Originality of Pancasila philosophy. Philosophy of Pancasila and developed by Sukarno from 1955 until the end of his rule in1965. At the time of Sukarno always stated that the original philosophy of Pancasila Indonesia is taken from the culture and traditions of cultural acculturation Indonesia and India (Hindu-Buddhist), Western (Christian), and Arabic (Islamic). According to Sukarnos Belief is a native of Indonesia, Justice Social inspired by the concept of Messiah. Sukarno was never mentioned or propagandizes Unity. Thats statement It is from Soeharto version pancasila Philosophy. Based on the above explanation is understanding the general philosophy of Pancasila is the result of thinking / thinking deeply of the Indonesian people who are considered, trusted and believed to be something the truest, most just, most wise, best and most suitable for the Indonesian nation. Between distinguished religious philosophy and non-religious, is belonging. These means that Pancasila philosophy in terms of wisdom and truth to know the absolute truth that comes from God Almighty (religious truth), and both acknowledge the limitations of human capabilities, including the capacity to think. If differentiated in terms of theoretical philosophy and philosophy in a practical sense, on categories in philosophy Pancasila practical sense. This means that the philosophy of Pancasila in the conduct of thinking deeply, not only aimed at seeking truth and wisdom, not just for fulfill desire to know from people who are not inexhaustible, but also and above all the tangible results of thinking Pancasila philosophy is used as a guideline daily life . That life can achieve physical and spiritual happiness, both in this world and the Hereafter. Next measure the philosophy of Pancasila truth and terraced following: 1. Truth senses(common knowledge) 2. Scientific truth(sciences) 3. Philosophical truth(philosophy) 4. Religious truth(religion) After us understanding about Ideology, now we move to division of ideology. Ideology have two big division, they are Open Ideology and closed Ideology. 1. Opened Ideology Characteristic of open ideology is that the values and ideals are not imposed from the outside, but dug up and taken from the wealth of spiritual, moral and cultural community itself. Essence of community consensus, not created by the state, but is found in their community. Therefore, an open ideology is the property of all citizens and communities can find themselves in it. Ideology is open not only justifiable but necessary. The basic value of the modern stated of life and basic attitudes. An ideology is a natural source and is rooted in the worldview and philosophy of life of the nation. Thus, the ideology will be developed in accordance with the development of the intelligence community and national life. This is a prerequisite for an ideology. Unlike the case with the imported ideology, which would be unnatural (artificial) and to some extent requires coercion by a small group of people (minorities) who imported ideology. Pancasila is rooted in the worldview and philosophy of the nation, so that it meets requirements as an open ideology. Despite an ideology that is open, doesnt mean that openness is in such a way as to destroy or negate the ideology itself, which is an illogical. An ideology as a summary of the basic ideas are integrated and round without contradiction or contradictory in its aspects. Transparency divers three factors of Ideology Pancasila a. In the fact, national development processes and community dynamics rapidly growing. b. In the fact show, that the Ideological bankruptcy of the closed and freezing tends to dim due to his own development. c. Our experiences political history in the past. d. Willing to strengthen awareness of the basic values of Pancasila which is internal. Pancasila ideology of openness in its application primarily intended to form a dynamic thinking and conceptual in the modern world. We know there are three levels of value, the basic values that do not change the instrumental value as a means of realizing the basic values that can change according to circumstances and the practical value of the actual implementation of the real. Pancasila values outlined in the norms the norms contained Pancasila and reflected in the Preamble of the 1945 Constitution. Value or the basic norms contained in the Preamble of the 1945 Constitution should not be changed or modified. Because it is a choice and the resulting consensus that the basic rule is the fundamental basis of the state. Embodiment or implementation of instrumental values and practical values must still contain the soul and the spirit of the same basic value. 2. Closed Ideology Closed is the teaching of ideology or world view or philosophy that determines the purposes and norms of political and social, is ordained as a truth that should not be questioned again, but must be accepted as something already made and to be obeyed. Truth of a closed ideology should not be questioned based on the values or moral. Dogmatic and a priori content that cannot be changed or modified based on social experience. Because of this ideology that tolerates no worldview or other values. Characteristic â€Å"Ideology closed a closed ideology a few recognizable features† Ideology is not the ideals that have been living in the community, but of the ideals of an underlying group. Of a program to change and renew the community, Ideology is the enemy of tradition closed. If the group managed to seize political power, ideology will be imposed on society. Naturally, such a closed ideology to be imposed and applied by society adhered to certain elites, which means are run by authoritarian ways. Ideology is totalitarian normally closed, so concerns the whole of life. Which soon dominated the field completely and used for the spread of that ideology is a field that affects the attitudes of society, field of information to the mass and the other. Example ideology closed IPDN violence that occurred long before the case cliff Munthu Wahyu Hidayat who becomes victims of violence in IPDN. IPDN violence ingrained within the service was due some IPDN doctrine incorrectly interpret the service IPDN like touch the heart, if you cannot touch the solar plexus, if you cannot straighten break. Ideological characteristics of open and closed ideology are: Opened Ideology a. are the ideals that have been living in the community. b. Form the values and ideals that come from within the community itself. c. The results of consultation and consensus society. d. Is dynamic and reformist. Closed Ideology a. Is not goals that have been living in the community. b. Instead of values and ideals. c. Trust and rigid ideological loyalty. d. Consists of concrete and operational demands posed absolutely. According to Kaelan, the values contained in the ideology of Pancasila as an ideology is open are as follows: a) The basic value, that is the essence of the five precepts of Pancasila. b) The instrumental value, which is the direction, policy strategies, goals and implementation agency. c) Practical value, which is a realization of instrumental values in a realization that is the real practice, in everyday life in the community, nation and state. CHAPTER 2 Background of Ideology Indonesia/Pancasila I. Background of Pancasila BPUPKI 2 times the court held. At the First Session of the proposal appears to concept ideology, including: a) Mr. Muh. Yamin (May 29, 1945) In his speech on May 29, 1945 Muh. Yamin basic formula proposed candidate countries as follows: I. Nationality II. Humanitarian III. Elves Godhead IV. Populist (deliberative, wisdom) V. Welfare (social justice). In addition to the end of his speech, Muh. Yamin submit manuscripts as an attachment is a draft proposal contains a statement while the Constitution RI . b) Prof. Dr. Supomo (May 31, 1945) In his speech Prof. Dr. Supomo put tepid-state theory as follows: 1. The theory of individual countries (individualistic) 2. Understand the state class (class theory) 3. Understand intergalactic country. Further, in relation to the basic philosophy of the Indonesian state proposed Soepomo things about: unity, family, inner and outer balance, consultation, justice of the people. c) Ir. Sukarno (June 1, 1945) in this case Ir. Sukarno delivered state basis of five principles that basically namely: 1. Nationalism (nationality Indonesia) 2. Internationalism (humanity) 3. Social Prosperity 4. Belief in one God. He also suggested that Pancasila is the philosophical basis of the state and outlook of the nation of Indonesia. Session Meeting BPUPKI (first) that gave birth to the Jakarta Charter that declared on June 22, 1945 and signed by a small committee consisting BPUPKI formation of 9 people and is popular with the committee of nine whose members are as follows: 1.Ir.Soekarno 2.WahidHasyim 3.Mr.Muh.Yamin 4.Mr.Maramis 5.Drs.Moh.Hatta 6.Mr.Soebarjo 7.KyaiAbdulKaharMuzakir 8.AbikoesmoTjokrosujono 9.HajiAgusSalim II. Apply Ideology to our life As we know Pancasila Indonesia has opened and closed ideology. And we have been analyzing that ideology of Indonesia. So after we know about ideology, we must implement to our life. We have been already known in our country has five principles, and there are first principles until fifth principles: 1. Believe in one and only God/ the one lordship 2. Just and civilized humanity 3. The unity of Indonesia 4. Democracy which is guided by inner wisdom in the unanimity arising out of deliberation. 5. Social justice for the whole people of Indonesia In our life, automatically we can apply one or two principles. But its not enough for implement well ideology, because a lot of people just apply one or two principles, its not enough. As we know, in this era a lot of influenced from another country. Where the other country may be bring bad influenced or bad culture for Indonesian. But some bring a good influenced (we can see in another explain). We already know what the best for our life, and for Indonesian we must apply the first principles until fifth principles. Much method to apply that to our life, we can starts from the easy thing. But maybe somebody think is not important. If we want to know, if we apply that principle, we can see how to help people, respect the other people and so on. Its example some applying Pancasila in our life. The first principle: believe in one and only God/the one lordship a. Respect the other religions. b. Always pray. c. Do the good things. d. May not kill. The second principle: Justice civilized and humanity a. Dont kill people. b. Must be fair with the other people. c. Help or do social activities. d. Help each other. The third principle: The unity of Indonesia a. Filter bad influence form the other country. b. Build Indonesia together to be a good country. c. Never have bad feeling such us arrogance, joules, and etc. d. Protect Indonesia together. The fourth principles: Democracy which is guided by inner wisdom in the unanimity arising out of deliberations. a. Sit together to get agreement. b. Solve problem together. c. We must hear opinion from the other side. d. Take the best opinion for get the best. The fifth principle: social justice for the whole people of Indonesia a. All citizens in Indonesia have right for gets job and life with expediently b. Every citizen compulsorily gets educations. c. Every citizen deserve to gets healthcare. All principles, from first principles until fifth principles are connected and cannot separated. Because pancasila without first principles or the other principles incomplete. We should practice all principles. CHAPTER 3 How important is Pancasila for Indonesia Pancasila in Indonesia is very important, because Ideology Indonesia or Pancasila can awaken our spirit to build Indonesia to be better country than another country, provide guidance about the world and its content and build spirit to struggle to move against the occupation. Pancasila is the most important in Indonesia because Pancasila is Ideology for Indonesia, where that ideology has function for filter influence from Indonesia. Many people who study or work in neighbor country. When they back to Indonesia, they take along until they back to Indonesia. Because they has a long time to stayed in neighbors country, because that they familiar with western style. That influence had some impacts for Indonesia. The impact for Indonesia such us, Indonesian used a sexy clothes, used harsh words, more popular modern dance than traditional dance, and so on. Many culture in Indonesia where must we protect and we continue because a lot culture in Indonesia taken by another country. So, we must protect our culture. Impact for our relationship with the other country is the other country see our country is not good country because much Indonesian used a bad attitude. Maybe relationship between Indonesia with the other country is not good and so on. So, we must used a good attitude and filter influence from the other country, because influence from the other country is not good for Indonesian where Indonesia have religion and have principles for build good country. CHAPTER 4 How to filter influence from another country Like we know, some influence from the other county is bad but, some influence from the other country good for development in our country. Why we must filter influence from the other country? Almost people in Indonesia used bad attitude, where that attitude from the other country. As we know those influences have a right side and the wrong side. We can use the right side but for the wrong side we must remove from Indonesia. We can use Ideology of Indonesia or Pancasila. Many ways can we use to remove that influence from Indonesia. For the example we can use pancasila. We can see, what is having same meaning with the first principles or not. If not we can remove from our country, but if yes we can save for our country. Many point of view to look which one the right or wrong attitude. Example for the wrong side are used a harsh word, used sexy style from western, almost people more often eat junk food and so on. Example for the right side are Indonesia have a new style or mode, now world growth, and so on. The impact if Indonesia not filter the influence from the other country is Indonesian and the youth will have a bad attitude and may be no one can comply with rules in Indonesia. So, we should filter influence from the other country. CONCLUSION Now we know point of view from politic side, background of pancasila, the historical, how to filter influence from the other country, example from wrong side and the right side, and what impact if Indonesia not filter the influence from another country, why we must filter influence from the other country. We must protect our country from the other influence, where the influence is bad and we must protect our culture, because many our neighbor country want take our culture from Indonesia. So, we must keep and take care our country together. REFERENCES Background Historis PANCASILA www.wikipedia.com MY ZONE from book pendidikan kewarganegaraan II untuk SMK

Hotel External Environment and Internal Environment Analysis

Hotel External Environment and Internal Environment Analysis Introduction In legal terms Law is defined as, a rule of conduct or action prescribed or formally recognized as binding or enforced by a controlling authority: asÂÂ  aÂÂ  :ÂÂ  a command or provision enacted by a legislature. Basically it is a set of regulation and regulations of conduct, which are practiced in general. These rules and regulations are bound by legislature. In this assignment I will be discussing law in context with Consideration and Contract. Question 1: Marketing emphasises on meeting the needs of the consumers and providing them with value, and benefits, while at the same time handling the organisation in an efficient and profitable manner. Marketing is a process that involves constant adaptation and implementation of the varying consumer trends, and demands. While at the same time having a competitive advantage over the competitors, and while at the same time ensuring that the satisfaction of these needs result in a healthy turnover for the organisation. Objective of the coursework: The objective of this assignment is to analyse the Manor House Country Club Hotels (MHCCH) external environment and internal environment. I shall use PESTEL Analysis, Industry Analysis and MHCCHs Opportunity and Threat analysis to draw out the companys external environment and Core competencies, Value chain, Ansoff Matrix, strength and weakness of MHCCH will be applied to illustrate the internal environment. Overview of the Hotel: In 1992, Manor House Country Club Hotel was established as a family owned business by the Jenkins Family, in Singapore. The MHCCH spans over 3 acres of prestigious reclaimed land, and is operating currently as a single hotel. The Hotel provides various varieties of Luxurious accommodations, and serves tourists from around the World. The hotel also serves its customers with various types of cuisines, from its modernised Restaurant; the hotel also has Bistro that is licensed to sell alcoholic drinks. For corporate meetings and conferences to be held in the hotel, the hotel has adequate premises and facilities. And other miscellaneous services provided by the hotel include a Beauty Salon. In short it can be said that the MHCCH stands up to the luxurious benchmark that it projects. Analysis of the Micro Environment: (Internal) The Micro/internal factors are the forces inside the hotel that can affect the performance of the hotel, thus through the micro environment analysis, we search for and devise a strategy to overcome those shortcomings that might hinder the progress of the hotel. SW (Strength and Weakness) Analysis: (S)trengths: The MHCCH is located at a prime and favourable location, which is easily accessible. The MHCCH successfully depicts its Luxury position in the tourism and hospitality industry, thus differentiating it from the competition. It is licensed to serve alcoholic drinks in the hotel, thus widening its consumer base, and scope for profitability. Additional accommodation was added by MHCCH in 2002, so now it can house more customers, hence an increase in productivity. The Market value of MHCCH is eight times more than its actual value, which is the sign of a profitable and stable business. (W)eaknesses: There has been a consecutive decline in the number of corporate clients for the Hotel in the past years, while the number of trade conferences held in the country has gone up by 30%. Over pricing of the room rates above the average price level for similar rooms in other competitive hotels may lead to a decline in the number of customers. As for the current situation the MHCCH lacks direction in terms of a strategic plan for expansion, and its target consumers, those are essential for the development of the MHCCH. Recommendations: MHCCH can provide better meeting/conferencing facilities to its corporate clients to up the number of corporate bookings. Also it can reconsider its pricing policies and provide trade discounts to its clients. The accommodation/room tariffs to be priced at a market competitive rate, and not at exorbitant prices, which might set the customers off. A strategic marketing and action plan to be set by the MHCCH while keeping its prime priorities in focus. Conclusion: The shortcomings of the MHCCH are not of a major nature, they can be rectified by adopting simple corrective actions, like a strategic plan. It is quite natural for any organisations to face hurdles in its developmental phase. Core competencies: (Micro Analysis) Core competencies are what makes an organisation different from others, in most cases its direct competition. The MHCCH can develop its core competency on the basis of its luxury position in the market. It must aim at providing quality services to its customers at competitive prices. This also increases its foothold in the competitive market. As it is in the core culture of an organisation, to satisfy its customers and providing them the value for their money, that is what constitutes the basic differences among the various organisations. Value chain: (Micro Analysis) The basic motive of the value chain is to provide the customers with a certain level of value that surpass the cost of the activities and ultimately it appears in a profit margin. The value chain of MHCCH is presented below: Quality Service: The hotel management has to ensure that the customers are provided with high quality services that are worth the price that a customer is paying. So that the customer is satisfied. Satisfaction of customer needs: The second step is to meet the specific needs and demands of the customers as per their tastes and preferences, as the service industry tends to be very personal, tailor-made arrangements have to be made to meet the customer needs. Trained and Efficient staff: Every customer expects to be treated in the most hospitable and best manner possible, thus MHCCH should be certain that the staffs is well-trained and efficient when it comes to dealing with the customers. Marketing and Brand building: In this stage, MHCCH is looking for potential buyers to sell the services it offers and to do this they do advertising, pricing etc. And build a reputable image in the market, which is also a crucial factor to Customer satisfaction. There are some aiding factors to the points discussed above which cannot be fulfilled without the help of these: 1). Infrastructure: The aesthetic appeal of the hotel is a crucial factor of the quality it signifies in its service, thus the infrastructure should be as enticing and attractive as the services provided within the MHCCH. 2). Specialisation: To satisfy the specific customer demands, the hotel has to keep in mind that meeting those demands is crucial and difficult at the same time, thus specialisation in fulfilling the customer needs is an essential supporting factor. 3). Human Resource Management: The staff must be recruited and accordingly trained to deal with its customers, as the employees of MHCCH reflect the image of the hotel itself. Thus HRM is a bare necessity in the strategic planning process. 4). Marketing Research: With proper analytical tools and a better understanding of the market, the task of marketing becomes much easier for MHCCH, leaving a long lasting impression in the customers mind. Macro analysis: (External) By scanning the macro the environment, the company can devise a better strategy towards overcoming the identified threats and to utilize the available opportunities. OT: (Opportunities and Threats) (O)pportunities: Tapping the benefits of the high growth of tourism industry in Singapore. High demand of varying cuisines/lifestyles. Scope of expansion in conference/family travel groups. Expand the MHCCH brand by investing in external property, through borrowing/re-investing profit. (T)hreats: Highly competitive hotel industry, competitive pricing, similar services, etc. If proper steps to maintain and expand MHCCH are not taken, then this could be a potential threat to the hotel. Lack of Differentiation is another factor that serves as a threat to MHCCH as there are various segments i.e. budget youth hostels, five star hotels, backpacker lodges, etc. MHCCH should hold on to a particular segment and differentiate itself from others on its basis. Increasing Bureaucracy and the various new rules and regulations imposed by the government can cause hindrances in the expansion plans of MHCCH, e.g. licenses and permits required to carry out some activities in the Hotel. Pestel Analysis PESTEL represents Political, Economic, Social, Technical, Environment and Legislative factors which are external in nature. The current and future change of six key areas can affect the MHCCHs business. The PESTEL analysis explores the broad environment in which the MHCCH is operating. Political Factor: These contain the rules and regulations implemented on the Hotel by the Government. The Singapore government is inclined on increasing its popularity as a tourist destination, thus a beneficial factor for MHCCH. Economic Factors: Singapore is among some of the fastest growing eastern economies, thus the GDP and the public spending is on a constant rise, so is the purchasing power of the citizens of Singapore and the Tourists. Again its in favour of MHCCH. Social Factors: The Cultural and social aspects of a country are highly important to the business, the current trend of the growing demand for new styles of food and drink is a sign of the change in the social factor. Technological Factors: Technology is directly linked to modernisation, the hotel has to keep up to date with the latest technological changes in the business environment, for e.g. Wireless internet, Computer bay, HDTVs, etc. This improves the quality and quantity of the stay of the customers. Environmental Factors: Drastic changes are occurring in the global environment nowadays; also environmental awareness is becoming more common by the day. Environment friendly applications need to be adopted by MHCCH to balance its responsibility towards the environment. Legal Factors: The MHCCH must abide by the legislation operating in their geographical territory (Asian Legislation). This affects their business hugely. It may serve in or against their favour, depending on the legislation. Part B The Manor House Country Club Hotel can expand its business in within the next two years by following these strategies/theories. Ansoff Matrix: The Ansoff Matrix is useful in deciding the companys product and market growth strategy. The Ansoff Matrix in reference to MHCCH is: Market Penetration: MHCCH is building a stronger market position by providing similar luxury services as the other hotels in the same market. Market Development: MHCCH is investing in its site to develop its unused land into small leisure centres. These investments are aimed at developing a stronger position of the hotel in the market. Product Development: The main focus of MHCCH is on developing its service package by improving the infrastructure and attracting more customers. By investing in the hotel, the services they offer can be developed Diversification: This involves MHCCH entering a business that is not currently a part of their agenda, which at the moment it is not doing, but they can consider diversification into the alternatives in future, as it leads to added income and goodwill. Porters Grid Porters Grid is also well known as Porters Five Force analysis. These were developed by Michael E. Porter. The competitive environment of the MHCCH is explored in depth through the Porters analysis below: 1). Bargaining power of the Supplier: The supply in this industry is largely based on FMCGs (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) which is quite flexible considering the fact that the Hotel buys its supplies in bulk quantities. Thus the ready availability of the goods by the suppliers and the perennial demand of the goods limit the bargaining power of the suppliers. 2). Bargaining power of Buyers: There are many alternatives to choose from for the customers of MHCCH as there are rooms of varying levels of luxury and prices, ranging from basic single-bed room to ultra luxury Suite packages. There are other hotels offering similar rooms to them at competitive prices, thus buyers do have their share of bargaining power in this case. 3). Threat of new entrants: The hotel industry in Singapore is facing tough competition not only from the entry of locally based hotels but also giant multinational hotel chains, the new entrants might turn up as a threat for the company. 4). Threat of Substitutes: MHCCH basically provides accommodation oriented services to its customers, while there are a large number of substitutes available for them, to obtain similar services. The main differentiating factor here is pricing, and the difference in the quality of the services. There exists a strong threat of substitutes, but with a well planned pricing policy, this threat may be avoided. 5). Rivalry among competitors: Rivalry among competitors is fairly high for MHCCH as the rivals offer the same services/products, and they operate in the same market and environment. While at the same time there are new competitors entering the market. And also the buyers have the power to buy the services/products at lower prices. Conclusion As of now MHCCH is operating as successful enterprise, which through proper strategic planning can be developed into a much more flourishing business, and a highly successful hotel. But for Manor House Country Club Hotel to successfully expand its business in the next two years, it is advisable for them to adopt the Market/Product development strategy, as it provides them with an opportunity to utilise their available resources in an optimum manner, while at the same time continuing the routine functioning of business.

The World at the Time of Sir Isaac Newton Essay -- History, Protestant

When most people hear the name Isaac Newton, they think of various laws of physics and the story of the apple falling from the tree; in addition, some may even think of him as the inventor of calculus. However, there was much more to Newton’s life which was in part molded by the happenings around the world. The seventeenth century was a time of great upheaval and change around the world. The tumultuousness of this era was due mostly to political and religious unrest which in effect had a great impact on the mathematics and science discoveries from the time Newton was born in 1646 until the early 1700’s. Newton’s birth in 1646 came at the tail-end of the 30-years war which was fought in Central Europe. The war began in 1618 in Bohemia over religious differences between Protestants and Catholics; however as time passed, the war became more political and soon most countries in Europe were involved (Ellis & Esler, 1999). The war ended in 1648 by a series of treaties knows as the Pease of Westphalia with France coming out victorious gaining land from both Spain and Germany (Ellis & Esler, 1999). The tension felt between the Protestants and Catholics was mirrored in England where there was a civil war beginning in 1640 and continuing until 1659. Early in the civil war Oliver Cromwell was chosen as leader of Parliament with his staunch Puritan beliefs; he soon became a leader of the Protestant side of the war. During this time, many considered England to be almost in anarchy with groups such as the Ranters, Levellers, and Diggers battling over various religious and political beliefs (Merriman, 1996). In 1649 Charles I, who had been King of England prior to the civil war, was beheaded and England became a Commonwealth and ... ... the true founder of calculus; however, much of the notation used today is courtesy of Leibniz because, according to many mathematicians, his notation is far superior to Newton’s (O'Connor & Robertson, Calculus History, 1996). So, how did the events around the world during the seventeenth century help Newton develop calculus? In England and much of Europe science became a part of public life of the seventeenth century (Merriman, 1996). Charles II created the Royal Society of London for Improving Natural Knowledge in 1662 where many scientists studied and discussed their theories (Merriman, 1996). The Reformer’s victory in the English civil war gave Newton and other scientists their voice and the courage to study and find many of the scientific discoveries, as this was not the case with Galileo and many other scientists in Catholic countries (Merriman, 1996).

Important presidential elections :: history

Important presidential elections Some of the most important presidential elections 1812 The election of 1812 consisted of a battle between James Madison, and De Witt Clinton. Madison had represented both Democratic and Republican beliefs, while Clinton was a Federalist. James Madison was born in Port Conway, Va., on March 16, 1751. A Princeton graduate, he joined the struggle for independence on his return to Virginia in 1771. He had been an active politician in the 1770's and 1780's. He was greatly know for championing the Jefferson reform program, and in the Continental Congress. Madison, in collaboration, had participated greatly in the, Federalist, a paper who's main purpose was to ratify the constitution. Madison first became president in 1809, when he bested Charles C. Pickney. He had led the U.S. in a very unpopular war, in which the U.S. hadn't been prepared for...the War of 1812. De Witt Clinton was a Federalist, who's main purpose of the election was to get the U.S. out of a war in which he felt was very unnecessary. DeWitt held every major elective office in New York between 1797 and 1828--assemblyman, senator, mayor of New York City, lieutenant governor, and governor. He was a philanthropist and patron of the arts and science and, as canal commissioner, championed construction of the Erie and Champlain canals. The method in which these candidates received nomination was by the Electoral College, or by King Caucus. The idea of political conventions had not been present at this time. There were no third-party candidates in this election. The major issue of this election was the War of 1812. The War of 1812, or "Mr. Madison's War", had been very unpopular among different sections of America. Mainly the ship owners in New England. The war was supposed to protect. This war was supposed to help their shipping, but instead, it had kept them from trading and making money. The winner of the election of 1812 was James Madison. Madison collected 128 electoral votes, while Clinton received 89, and the number of "No Votes Cast" was 1. The Vice-presidential candidate, who won the election was Elbridge Gerry, who received 131 electoral votes, while Jared Ingersoll received 86. There was no record of the number of popular votes for this election. My opinion of why Madison had won the election is because he had led the country into the War of 1812, and therefore, he should be allowed to fight it.

Personal name

They should contain your name and position title, contact number, email address and website address. If possible, your business name, logo and services or products also should be listed. It is common practice to have a double-sided card in the U. K. With the business details on the front and the personal contact details on the back 2. Shaking hands Shaking hands is a common form of greeting A handshake Is standard for business occasions and when visiting a home. Women do not always shake hands.In business, a light handshake Is standard. When vaulting a home, a handshake Is proper; however, a handshake Is not always correct at social occasions. Observe what others do. In the UK it is usually a single right hand that does the shaking. Very few people shake with their left hand and it is deemed rude to offer your hand without taking your glove off first. 3. Bowing 4. Kissing 5. Being formal or informal 6. Punctuality Punctuality is paramount. You should always arrive for an appointment/ meeting on time, maybe even five minutes early.If you are going to be late, telephone and give a time when you expect you will arrive. 7. Humor Do not make jokes about the royal family. 8. Eye contact The British often do not look at the other person while they talk. Maintain eye contact during the greeting. 9. Socializing with contacts The best way to make contact with senior executives is through a third party. It is not appropriate to have this same third party Intervene later If problems arise. While business dinners are becoming less common, business breakfasts are gaining In popularity.Work Is often discussed during business breakfasts and lunches, although these can also be used as an opportunity for general small talk to get to now your colleagues better and build up a good working relationship Meetings usually open with a fair amount of small talks, in order to create a warm, positive climate conducive to working well together. They last within 5-10 minutes before meetings Animals are usually a good topic of conversation. 11 . Accepting interruption 12. Giving presents Giving gifts in a business setting is not very common.When they are given, thank you gifts are usually small symbolic items such as diaries, pens, champagne, etc. Gifts should not seem inappropriately expensive. Also, gifts are usually given at the conclusion of something, such as a project, to mark the occasion or as a thank you. Rather than giving gifts, it is preferable to invite your hosts out for a meal or a show. When you are invited to an English home, you may bring flowers (not white lilies, which signify death), liquor or champagne, and chocolates. Send a brief, handwritten thank- you note promptly afterward, preferably by mail or e-mail-?not by messenger.When bringing flowers, consult with the florist about the appropriate type and umber. 13. Being direct (saying exactly what you think) 14. Using first name When greeting people in the I-J, wait to use first names until the oth er person uses yours or asks you to call them by their first name. The response you give to an introduction should have the same level of formality as the introduction itself. However, British business etiquette is becoming more informal and first names are often used right away The use of first names is becoming more common. However, you should follow the initiative of your host.

Philosophy Reflection Essay

This was my first major introduction into the study of philosophy, and I can honestly say that it has had a major impact on my belief system. Many of my views have been changed and my overall view on life is much different than it was five months ago. To me, the two most interesting works were the Tao and The Mind’s I. The Tao describes a really interesting way of life. Of all the philosophies we’ve read, it is the simplest and most beautiful. Instead of scanning for hidden meanings and analyzing all parts of life, Laozi just tells us to live life. Do no more than you have to do, but do everything you have to do. He tells us not to worry about death and just live life. I honestly think very simple and peaceful way of living can bring us much more happiness than we have now in our current society. However, the only way it can be implemented is if everyone follows the Tao, and that is nearly impossible in our current society. We should honestly try to live simpler lives a nd see the beauty of everyday things. The other work that really impacted me was The Mind’s I. I’m not sure if it qualifies as a single work, but there were several important themes that really interested me and changed some of my views. The section that really interested me the most was the section describing intelligent machines and animals, and their relationship to humans. I had always considered humans superior to animals due to their intelligence and ability to communicate. I never thought too much about the idea of intelligent animals and even machines and their relationship to humans. An intelligent machine or animal that can communicate definitely would be on the same evolutionary level as humans, and thus there could be no way to justify creating an intelligent robotic servant or helper without harkening back to the ideology that prompted slavery. Also, destruction of this machine or animal would be equivalent to murder. However, I still so no moral objection to creating an intelligent robot, as long as we give it its own freedom, just as we would to one of our children. Its may be considered playing God, but if we are his greatest creations, we should have the right to test our limits. Only through a recreation of consciousness done and understood by us can we begin to understand our own consciousness as well as ourselves. I had never really thought about technology in this way and never seriously questioned the origin of my consciousness, so the Mind’s I really forced me to think about  life in a different way. Throughout the term, I not only changed and reconsidered many of my views; I discovered things that I subconsciously believed without really thinking about it. My beliefs not only changed, I discovered beliefs that I never knew I had. Some of these views surfaced when reading certain works like The Mysterious Stranger and Nietzsche. Although these two works didn’t change my deep-set views that much, it was interesting to see my instinctual beliefs get challenged. I discovered I was a pretty moderate thinker, but these readings caused many of my views on life to change. However, I still disagreed with many of the views expressed in class discussions with certain works, like the Tao. But then I realized that the Tao is designed to have different meanings to everyone who reads it so they could find their own way of life and thus doesn’t lend itself well to class discussions. I saw that the way philosophy has evolved over the years mirrors the way society has changed throughout history. The older philosophies that we’ve read, like the Tao and Plato’ work, seem to try to tell us how to live our lives to get the most happiness and satisfaction out of it, and how to find the way or see the light. The more modern philosophies seem to disregard the idea of a true path and tell us how to live in the best way, but they don’t guarantee happiness from it. The most interesting pieces for me were a mix of the modern and older philosophies, like Nietzsche and Socrates’ Apology (I guess because he lived in a ancient but modern society). Even though they were completely different and I completely disagreed with one of them, they were much more compelling to me. One important thing that I learned is that I hate reading about something that I agree on, I dislike having my views â€Å"proven† by another writer and rather read new ideas a nd opinions. From all the texts read and discussions we’ve had this year, it’s hard to highlight just three things that I learned. One of the most stimulating texts to me was The Circular Ruins. Especially when read right after Is God a Taoist, this simple story made me reconsider all my beliefs on existence and God. Just like the main character was, we are kept in the dark about our condition, where we came from and how we exist. We claim an all-mighty God  as our creator, and call ourselves superior beings in his image. However, whose to say that we are not just insignificant nothings, created by another being of no importance. Would that make us less real and important? From this story I learned to stop attaching importance and purpose to everything I do. Maybe there is a reason we don’t know where we come from; perhaps we don’t want to know. Another important lesson came from Reservation Blues. The main characters all had to deal with finding a cultural identity while trying to escape the trap of the white man. The only ones who made it out were the ones who had a strong cultural identity. They knew themselves and identified with their past before they attempted to escape the reservation. Victor and Junior either tried to ignore their past or couldn’t come to terms with their heritage. They tried to escape before they were ready, and couldn’t cope with the failure. The book’s point, despite the suicide and Victor’s destruction, was amazingly positive, it showed that if you come to terms with your past and yourself you can overcome any obstacle set against you, but you must have this understanding or you will destroy yourself. From The Razor’s Edge I learned a lot about the purpose of life from each of the vastly different characters. At first, it seems like the point of the story is that there is a difference between what we want and what makes us happy and fulfilled. Suzanne, Gray and Elliot all got what they wanted yet all seem to live unhappy, unfulfilled lives. Further inspection showed that they all are living the life that they fully wanted and expected to live, and they are perfectly content. Isabel wanted both Larry and high society type of life, and thus is disappointed with her life because she couldn’t have both. Larry didn’t know what he wanted out of life, so he took basically a timeout from the real world, went into seclusion and discovered what he wanted out of life. Now he, knowing full well what he wants, is the most satisfied of all the characters. The lesson to be learned is that happiness is completely relative, and thus you cannot call anyone a failure unless he c onsiders himself one. Also, it’s all right to take some time out of the real world and relax, take a step back and see what you really want to do next. In the end, this class really has changed my views on the best kind of life. I still believe that you need to live the type of life that will make you the happiest and most satisfied, but I don’t think that most people know what type of life that is. If you don’t have a passion, don’t force yourself into any profession. Explore the world and find something that really interests you otherwise you will get forced into a miserable life that you hate. If you have a passion, you have to follow it. You have to come in terms with who you are; understand and remember your past and childhood. We have to examine our lives to discover what we really want, then try to find it. We must simplify our actions, and we have to stop overanalyzing other’s actions and words. We have to lose our ego and sense of shame, and stop caring what people think of you. This is the simplest way to live and live happily, without having to adjust your actions to fit what other people expect from you. We have to stop fearing death and keep on living life in the happiest possible way. This will be the happiest, simplest and best life for everyone.