Politics in the Middle East Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Politics in the Middle East - Essay Example That led to counter reaction and eventually and the current deplorable situation. In Iran on the other hand, the domestic politics remain complex with issues like the contentious nuclear program leads to instability. Furthermore, the president supports the Syrian president against ISS that exposes Iraq to risks of attack from the terrorist group. Black (2014) presents Syria political condition as the worst of all in the nations found in the Middle East region. The declaration of ISS of Syria as an Islamic State led to outbreak of war between the government and forces that backs it from Iran and the militiamen of Shia from Iraq. It is evident that efforts to eliminate the group remain far from bearing fruits. The impact however, proves more devastating with lost lives accounting to over one hundred and fifty civilians while immigrating civilians have led to creation of refugees’ crisis across Europe. Lebanon equally suffers mostly as a result of war in Syria and the existence o f a deeply fractured polity that the nation enjoys. As a result of Lebanon’s president defense to the Syrian president, tension remains high as the Sunni community reacts violently. War in Syria affects Jordan as more than six hundred refugees joined the country. Furthermore, tensions remain high with the political leaders of Jordan wary of Isis appealing to disaffected Sunnis. Turkey on the other hand provides support to anti-Assad rebels, but still worried about Isis as well as the independence of Kurdish (Black, 2014).

Video game speech Essay Example for Free

Video game speech Essay Murder, assault, theft and even rape. This is the type of degenerate criminal influences shown to YOUR children on a regular daily basis. Series of dangerous, virtual and physical violence our preserved society has tolerated for far too long, but I say NO MORE. NO MORE influenced violence being shown upon our youths. NO MORE increased crime rates in our society and most definitely NO MORE children being denied their protected safety rights because as parents and guardians we OWE them at least this. I am not here today to tell you what you should and should not be showing to your child. I know that I have no right in telling you this. However I am here today to remind you of what YOU have already acknowledged, what YOU have been too afraid to admit to. Something YOU have been hiding from your children for a far more devastating way than you think†¦ a progressing life of freedom that is not bound to immoral games that are far below the approved age limit. I know, personally, that raising a child in a society maintained by constant evolving technology is hard and it can be beyond tempting to engage your child in the latest video games and games consoles. Nevertheless, I want to tell what the impact of you succumbing to your temptations have done to your children and potentially the generations after. Did you know that 70% of young children aged between 6 – 10 years old that regularly play any type of video game are mentally and physically inflicted by video games which can create a chain reaction to an aggressive and violent behavior? It is within these aggravating behaviors that your child is becoming more and more dangerous in this reality as well as in the virtual world. They are given the impressions that their life is relatable to the video games they are playing and that they must react to their life issues with violence the way the characters within the video games would react. An example of what I am initially trying to explain is the Norway massacre of 2012. One man. One man, who had become so mentally inflicted by playing violent video games and brutal games consoles since the young age of 9, had brutally massacred 77 people on the isolated island of Utoya, Norway. He became so mentally inflicted and attached to violent video games that he stated â€Å"I had trained and prepared by playing ‘call of duty’ for an average of 6 hours and 50 minutes every day to get ready for this day†. Imagine is this was your child doing these disgusting, ruthless and vicious actions. Many of you may not see the outstanding effect and impact of video games on your child right at this moment, but you WILL see the impact on your child in the nearby future and I can guarantee you will not like it. I know it is a terrible thought to think of your child acting as that man once did, but it is a potential circumstance. Video games are one of the key links between anger and violence most definitively with young children. Violent images and audio, brutal story backgrounds, realistic assassin characters are the main problems as they are most effective. The only thing stopping our society from becoming a brutal, vicious town run by mentally afflicted and aggressive people are YOU. You can change not only our future, not only our town but the entire world and even the generations to come. Not only is your child becoming mentally inflicted by video games by also physically inflicted. The whole body internally and externally are becoming more and more damaged through the constant use of video game consoles. With the lack of social interaction your child’s mind is being affected as it will slowly deteriorate and will become illiterately desensitized. This will impact them in their daily routines such as brushing their teeth, memory loss and even with their school performance. The amount of sleep will also become majorly affected for your child due to the constant use of video games resulting in the lack of sleep. The internal organs can also become majorly affected as the lack of outside oxygen, lack of essential foods and drinks, lack of daily exercise and even lack of basic body movements can deprive the body of the necessary requirements needed to obtain it. The internal organs can become numb and slowly wither away. This will make your child weaker and less protected internally leaving them open to all kinds of viruses and diseases that can potentially kill them. Alongside the internal organs becoming damaged, the external body can become immensely damaged as well. This can include vital parts of the body such as the eyes – as they are continuously focused upon a bright screen, they will become weaker and damaged. This can cause your child to become visually impaired and potentially blind, which would make life much more difficult for them especially at such as young age. Another body part which would become physically inflicted includes the hands and wrist area. With the hands constantly being used on the console controls, the thumbs and fingers would regularly cramp giving your child the increasing chance of arthritis. This includes the wrists cramping up also. This physically inflicted impairment can also create an unusual shape for your child’s hand and can cause disfigurement that can make it harder for them to write and use them for other regular duties such as picking up and holding items. A final and most important body part that is physically inflicted includes the entire lower body. With the lack of movement, your child’s body will slowly start to stiffen and cramp up again much like the hands and wrists and can lead to lower body arthritis which is known to be much worse. To conclude, I would like to make sure you have all acknowledged the major effects of children constantly playing violent video games and games consoles. I want you all to remember these effects and think of your child’s needs and benefits first before succumbing to your temptations. Think of the life your child would have to endure if they were sucked into the world of brutal and violent video games, but instead they could be living in a much healthier and less violent world of their own. Remember to live in a world with NO MORE influenced violence being shown upon our youths. NO MORE increased crime rates in our society and most definitely NO MORE children being denied their protected safety rights because as parents and guardians we OWE them at least this.

Let Us Grieve for the Women of Salem Essay -- Arthur Millers The Cruci

Featured in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible is a powerful dynamic between the levels of a maintained social hierarchy. There are shifts in the social hierarchy in the town of Salem even though the social hierarchy has been maintained and has existed for a long length of time. The attempts on this maintained structure are met with powerful retaliations that draw in all the members of the town of Salem, resulting in the deaths of many woman and men in the town. The Crucible reflects on the historical context of this struggle and shows what would happen if the status quo were changed. The play presents what people would do in order to hold on to the power that they are slowly losing through false pretense. The Salem witch trails were a society’s way of attempting to maintain a structure they are used to, using hysteria to help them grasp onto a dying conscience they once had and to explain what could not be explained. Today, the issues that are presented in this play, the so cial hierarchy and what is done to maintain it, still exist. The University of Toronto – Scarborough Campus’s theatre company performed The Crucible. The production followed Arthur Miller’s play showing the audience the fear and hysteria that ran through Salem during the witch trails. The importance of religion was evident just as the play opens up to hearing a prayer being spoken. Themes of paranoia, religion, and McCarthyism were present throughout the presentation. The overall acting and set provided the audience with a more intimate viewing of what happened throughout the Salem witch trails. The Crucible follows the events that occurred before and during the Salem Witch Trials. John Proctor, the protagonist of the play has to fight the hysteria that has t... ...Social welfare policy from colonial times to the present. South End Press, 1996. Web. 3. Apr. 2014. Jenrette, Jerra, et al. "Teaching the Salem witch trials through place and time." Historical Journal of Massachusetts 40.1-2 (2012): 212+. Academic OneFile. Web. 3 Apr. 2014. Kocić, Ana. "Salem Witch Craft Trials: The Perception of Women in History, Literature and Culture." Facta Universitatis 3.1 (2010): 17. Print. Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. N.p., 1953. Print. Miller, Arthur. "Why I Wrote The Crucible: An Artist's Answer to Politics." The New Yorker27 Oct. 1996: n. pag. Print. The Crucible. By Miller. Dir. Paula Sperdakos. Leigha Lee Browne Theatre, UTSC. Friday, March 21, 2014. Performance. Schissel, Wendy. "Re(dis)covering the Witches in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible: A Feminist Reading." Bloom's Modern Critical Interpretations (2008): 55-67. Print.

Pros of Social Media Essay

Greenfield may well have a point when she argues that the young brain can’t handle over-stimulation of â€Å"fast action and reaction. † But isn’t that the same argument we’ve been making about all technology and entertainment for decades now? Indeed, I’m of the MTV generation and all those fast cuts and blaring sounds were supposed to warp my brain long ago. (I know some TechCrunch commenters who would argue it has†¦) Everything has a trade off, and I’d argue the benefits in communications, education and collaboration of the Web far outweigh the negatives, and indeed give us greater benefits than we get from TV or Guitar Hero. Kids and social networking: Pros and cons Post this, comment on that. Social media are a part of the daily routines of many adults and children. And the identifiable pros and cons of social networking among kids are beginning to emerge, according to a presentation at the American Psychological Association meeting. â€Å"While nobody can deny that Facebook has altered the landscape of social interaction, particularly among young people, we are just now starting to see solid psychological research demonstrating both the positives and the negatives,† said Larry D. Rosen, Ph. D. professor of psychology at California State University, Dominguez Hills, and technology researcher. Rosen says ongoing research and preliminary results of studies suggest a few trends in kids. On the plus side: In a world full of distractions, social networking and technology can provide tools for teaching in a way that engages and captivates young minds. Online social networking can also help young people learn how to socialize with their peers; users also show more â€Å"virtual empathy. † â€Å"It’s almost like social networks are training wheels for life in a lot of ways – it teaches you to express empathy and see how people respond,† Rosen said. It teaches you to also just develop your sense of self of who you are. You float things out on a wall post on Facebook and then sit back and look at the comments that you get. It’s a place where you can grow and develop. † What is social media? There are many definitions of the term â€Å"social media† floating around the Internet. While social media is used heavily for marketing, the definition offered by Ron Jones of Search Engine Watch captures what kids are using social networking sites for. Jones defines social media as â€Å"essentially a category of online media where people are talking, participating, sharing, networking, and bookmarking online. Most social media services encourage discussion, feedback, voting, comments, and sharing of information from all interested parties. † As Jones points out, social media is a two-way conversation that allows people to stay â€Å"connected or linked to other sites, resources, and people. † The key words for teenagers being â€Å"stay connected. †

Compensation Practice

Wall-Mart applies the compensation strategy of offering the workers the lower limit of wages allowed by the law, but misstating for the same through offering its employees with an insurance scheme (Wilkes, 2013). In this respect, while the employees may not be benefiting greatly in financial terms, the future of such employees is well covered, due to the fact that they have been provided with an insurance cover that addresses their needs beyond the monthly pay checks (Wilkes, 2013).However, the Wall-Mart strategy has been termed as unsuitable both for the employees and the economy, since it is a strategy that seeks to categorize the workforce of the organization as an expense that needs to be minimized Wilkes, 2013). This concept is harmful both to the employee motivation and to the public perception, owing to the fact that treating the workforce as an expense that must be kept under control does not work well either with the employees or the public perception, which in turn adversel y affects the sales of the organization directly (Atchison, Belcher & Thomson, 2013).Thus, while the Wall-Mart compensation strategy has enabled it to keep its expenses low and thus maximize its profitability, it might have even been more damaging than already thought, if the strategy is analyzed from the employee nutrition and the customer perception point of view.Further, the Wall- Mart compensation strategy has emerged to be damaging to the reputation and the goodwill of the company amongst the public and the customers, owing to the fact that it is perceived to transfer the burden of changing hard economic times directly to the employees, by causing them to suffer low wages, so that the company can maintain its profitability levels, as they were during the good economic times (Wilkes, 2013).How Wall-Mart applies compensation practice to determine the positive or negative impact to the many and its stakeholders The effect of the negative perceptions of the customers and the genera l public is to make the organization owners and the top leadership and management to come out as greedy and unethical, which in turn is a turn off for many potential customers of the organization (Atchison, Belcher & Thomson, 2013).Most importantly is the distinction between the concept of low wages and low labor costs. The fact that an organization offers low wages to Its workforce does not mean that such an organization will in turn incur low labor costs (Atchison, Belcher & Thomson, 013). This is because, while the low wages may be an alternative for reducing expenses, the costs associated with the labor turnover might exceed the benefit derived from offering low wages (Atchison, Belcher & Thomson, 2013).Thus, Wall-Mart is an organization that is being faced by the challenge of high employee turn-over, owing to the fact that most of its employees are dissatisfied with the conditions of work and the low wages offered by the organization, such that they tend to quit the job at the rise of any other viable alternative, forcing the organization to engage in a continuous cycle of hiring and employment recruitment, which in turn drives the costs of labor higher (Wilkes, 2013).A recent study has shown that while Wall-Mart offers low wages compared to Cost, Quick Trip and Trader Joey's, the organization incurs an overall high cost of labor compared to these organizations, thus in turn earning low profitability margin (Alter, 2013). The study has indicated that the cost of labor turnover at Cost is 17%, compared to the cost of labor turnover at Wall-Mart, which stands at 44% (Atchison, Belcher & Thomson, 2013).The overall effect of this study is to show that the compensation strategy for Wall- Mart might be considered to deliver positive results by lowering the expenses associated with the employee wages, but the overall effect is that the company continues to incur very high cost than it would be incurring, if it paid good wages for its employees (Alter, 2013). The other important aspect to consider in the Wall-Mart's compensation strategy is its effect on the employees' productivity.A well paid employee is a productive employee, since such an employee is enthusiastic and motivated about his work, and thus applies extra effort to ensure that the employer will also benefit from the show of goodwill and appreciation of the employee services. In this respect, the study indicated that the productivity of the employees at Wall- Mart was much lower compared to that of Cost, owing to the fact that the profit per employee in Wall-Mart was $11 ,039 compared to that of Cost, which was $13, 647 per employee (Atchison, Belcher & Thomson, 2013).Thus, the compensation strategy of Wall-Mart is wanting, and as a result needs to be changed so that it can enable both the organization and the workforce to reap higher benefits from their relationship. The ways in which laws, labor unions, and market factors impact the Wall-Mart compensation practices Wall-Mart c ompensation practices have been affected greatly by laws, labor unions and market factors, such that for example, in 2005, labor unions created organizations and launched internet and social media campaign to criticize Wall-Mart for its poor treatment of employees in wages and conditions of work (Atchison, Belcher & Thomson, 2013).The law has also been on collision course in several occasions with Wall-Mart, where it has been investigated for possible prosecution for both monopolistic tendencies and unlawful treatment of its workforce (Green, 2003). The market forces have also been of great influence to the Wall-Mart business, through causing the organization to earn low profitability as a result of economic recession, thus in turn paying low wages for its workforce (Wilkes, 2013). The effectiveness of traditional bases for pay at the Wall-Mart The rotational bases for pay are still applicable for Wall-Mart, although selectively.

Napoleonic Europe essays

Napoleonic Europe essays During the French Revolution, the people of France had witnessed many different forms of government- absolute monarchy, constitutional monarchy and a republic. Thus, as a key phase in any revolution, a dictatorship will arise who says he will meet the peoples desperate needs. This was Napoleon Bonaparte. Napoleon rescued France from the toils of the revolution. He was also a child of the Enlightenment and used many of its ideals during his rule. Ideas such as establishing a national bank, organizing public education and employing natural rights upon the people give Napoleon the title of last enlightened despot. For hundreds of years before Napoleons reign, the economy of France was in shambles. The largest populated country in Europe was ironically the biggest country in poverty and debt. This was due to the French governments overspending in the royal court and military improvements. Napoleon would be the first leader to make lasting improvements in finance. He used human reasoning, an essential concept in enlightened thinking, and established the Banque Nationale de Paris. He reestablishes old taxes and pays back old debts. He also settled the problem of inflating food prices. He would put France back at a strong financial hold. Keeping in mind that education will create the smartest man, Napoleon improves Frances education system. He organizes government- operated secondary schools, lycees and a number of vocational and technical schools such as Ecole Polytechnique. To make sure that schools were operating properly, a sort of checks and balances system, he organizes the University of Paris in 1808 to safeguard the quality of his schools. These schools were free and higher education was opened to all who qualified, regardless of class or religion. Every Napoleonic State had an academy for the arts and sciences. Lastly, he provided income to the men who brought along this enlightened ...

Navy essays

Navy essays During the Civil War the size of the United States Navy jumped from about twenty to thirty ships to a few hundred. This massive increase in size signified the height of U.S. Naval power, but to many peoples dismay, after the Civil War the government began to disband the ships. Later only a few ships were still armed and fit for battle because of lack of definite interest in a strong navy. Moreover the Naval Department was hurt by political corruption. The Grant era following the Civil War was notorious for its corruption and it helped bring a tainted image to the navy. Ensuing were long political battles over funding situations and the status of the navy, and influential officers were dragged into petty arguments over a struggle for power. This was a grave time for the U.S. Navy and as the U. S. Naval presence declined, the waters began to fill with flags of the enemy, and this in turn left a question of the future of the United States role in the seas. This also gave Alfred Thayer M ahan a great opportunity to present his concepts of a modern navy and the navys importance in the world politics and commerce. Many people believe Mahan wrote his books primarily to preserve open lanes for trading commerce, and to make the seas safe for conducting business. Although this may have been one of his motives, Mahans motives were part of a much broader movement and universal. Mahan sought to promote American interest in an idea that his era is known for: Expansionism. Alfred Thayer Mahan wrote the book The Influence of Sea Power in 1890, which conveyed his thesis for the importance of the navy: Sea power in the most useful and powerful instrument in the establishment and dominance of nations. The ideas of manifest destiny and insular imperialism in the late 19th century were based solely in the nations sea power. No country could ever become an influential actor in world affairs without a strong sea base. The boo...

A Collection of Zulu Proverbs

A Collection of Zulu Proverbs Much of Africas history has been passed on through the generations orally. One consequence of this is that traditional wisdom has been crystallized in the form of proverbs. Zulu Proverbs Here is a collection of proverbs attributed to the Zulu of South Africa. You can learn wisdom at your grandfathers feet, or at the end of a stick.Meaning: If you pay attention to what your elders are telling you and follow their advice, you wont have to learn things the hard way through experience. If you dont absorb what they have to say, you will have to learn your lessons by making mistakes and accepting the often-painful consequences.A walking man builds no kraal.Meaning: A kraal is a homestead. If you keep moving, you wont settle down or be forced to settle down.You can not know the good within yourself if you can not see it in others.Meaning: If you want to build self-esteem, you need to practice looking for good qualities in others and appreciating them. This in itself is a virtue, which will build goodness in you.When you bite indiscriminately, you end up eating your own tail.Meaning: Think before you act, especially when acting out of anger or fear. Plan your actions carefully so you dont make things worse.The lion is a beautiful animal  when s een at a distance.Meaning: Things arent always as they seem at first glance, so be careful what you wish for; it may not be what is best for you. The bones must be thrown in three different places before the message must be accepted.Meaning: This refers to a divination ritual; you should consider a question multiple times in multiple ways before reaching a decision.Guessing breeds suspicion.Meaning: When you dont have all of the facts, you may come to false conclusions or experience paranoia. Its better to wait for solid evidence.Even immortals are not immune to fate.Meaning: Nobody is too big to take a fall. Your wealth, intelligence, and success wont protect you from random negative events.You cannot fight an evil disease with sweet medicine.Meaning: Fight fire with fire rather than turning the other cheek. This proverb advises war over diplomacy and not showing mercy to an enemy.Old age doesnt announce itself at the gate of the kraal.Meaning: Old age sneaks up on you; it doesnt simply arrive one day when you are expecting it.Almost doesnt fill a bowl.Meaning: You dont get partial credit for a failure; you will still suffer the consequences of the failure. You must complete a task and carry through to enjoy success. Dont bother to use the excuse that you tried and you almost succeeded. This is similar to Yodas, Do. There is no try.   Even the most beautiful flower withers in time.Meaning: Nothing lasts forever, so enjoy it while you have it.The sun never sets that there has not been fresh news.Meaning: Change is the one constant.

Critical Paper of Let's (Not) Get Physicals Essay

Critical Paper of Let's (Not) Get Physicals - Essay Example For example, she seems to shift blame for the situation to doctors and patients and leaves out key players such as the government and insurance companies. Rosenthal attempts to convince people on the need of not having physicals, especially when the checkups become recommended by doctors and then get approved by insurance companies. Rosenthal, at the beginning of her article, states that she completed medical training in late eighties. This may validate her ability to make distinguishing arguments for or against some medical checkup procedures. As such, she argues that various health tests are irrelevant and sometimes harmful to the patient. Her article reflects on tests that yield false positives on the first instance, therefore, facilitating the need for further tests. An example of convincingly harmful procedures includes X-rays which expose patients to radiation and over time can lead to health complications. Other medical tests such as blood screenings are intrusive and unnecess ary. For instance, the United States Preventive Services Task Force does not recommend antigen specific blood screening to identify prostate cancer. Nonetheless, close to 80% of urologists still think it is necessary. Rosenthal cites studies by the Canadian government task force in 1979 that provide evidence on the irrelevance of the standard head-to-toe annual physical. The results from these studies show that the tests a) do not yield efficient diagnosis or results and b) may expose patients to harmful, intrusive procedures. However, the author does not clearly articulate whose fault it is that the tests are not accurate. Furthermore, Rosenthal’s thesis mentions potential harm to the patient, but she seems to fail in outlining the clear dangers of engaging in medical checkups. In her article, Rosenthal speaks of how some procedures are pointless and need to be wiped out from the medical practice. In addition, she insists of some laboratory tests being useless as moreso end up giving false positives hence hindering diagnosis of the real diseases. Furthermore, she continues by mentioning the pointless nature of screening tests as some do not have any influence on the progression of a disease in illnesses that do not have effective treatment. She goes further to give an example of how CT scan can be harmful to a patient through the radiation that it emits, though medical personnel still use it. She emphasizes that there are quite a number of procedures and tests used in diagnosis and screening of certain diseases, but in real sense, also contribute in causing harm to that given patient. Moreover, Americans spend well over 300 billion dollars on unnecessary tests or treatment each year. Rosenthal also quotes Dr. Ateev Mehrotra, assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, who estimates that unneeded blood tests alone consume close to 325 million dollars a year. The excessive amounts of money spent on medical checkups reflect on the agenda of most doctors and hospitals. Rosenthal reports that doctors and hospitals prefer that patients spend more during medical visits because this is a sure way of making a profit. Another contributor to the inflating cost of healthcare is insurance. This article claims that medical insurance ends up paying large portions of bills for patients with coverage. This economic stimulus is dangerous

Should companies be required to be more Green (environmentally Research Paper

Should companies be required to be more Green (environmentally friendly) even if it costs more - Research Paper Example In some countries such as China, the issue of environmental pollution is so serious that if not checked, it could reverse the economic gains achieved over the years. This clearly shows that environmental protection should become a priority especially for companies, which contribute significantly to environmental pollution. Accordingly, companies should be required to be environmental friendly even if it is a costly venture. One of the reasons why companies should be required to become environmental friendly is that growth which is achieved at the expense of the environment will only be short term. In degrading the environment and depleting natural resources, a company’s success can only be short term, since such resources are needed for future production. In this case, protecting the environment also protects a company’s long-term productivity. Companies should therefore ensure that their activities do not harm the environment in order to achieve sustainable development. Although environmental protection is quite costly, the cost of reversing the effects of environmental degradation may be higher for a company (EPA). Companies should also be required to become environmental friendly because it is also beneficial for them. As people’s awareness of environmental pollution rises, they look out for companies that show concern for the environment. Consequently, customers or clients will be more likely to purchase products or services from companies which are actively engaged in environmental protection. A company that is environmental friendly will therefore retain its existing customers, while acquiring new ones. In the end, this has a positive impact on a company’s productivity, which outweighs its costs in environmental protection (Scherzer). As seen from the text, environmental protection is a costly venture, thus companies maybe unwilling to become environmental friendly. In order to make this requirement a reality, policymakers

Process of exploring acomplex situation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Process of exploring acomplex situation - Essay Example Each of these categories has their own matched occupations. For example, the realistic type is best suited to be a mechanic, drill press operator, assembly-line worker or a farmer (Robbins 2005, p. 39). These classifications lend understanding on how individual behave towards their work and other people. Hence, choosing the most appropriate motivation tool can be applied to that individual. Central to the effectiveness of motivation is its definition. Motivation is the "willingness to do something and is conditioned by this action's ability to satisfy some need for the individual" (Robbins 2005, p. 48). The needs of the individual which must be satisfied are identified through the understanding of the individual's personality. Lukes, Gaventa VeneKlasen and Miller explained that there are three faces of power: visible power which is the first face of power, hidden power which is the second face of power and invisible power which is the third face. More specifically, an example of invisible power is culture which means the "invisible power concealing behind concretely visible things and it will influence people's behavior" (Chang and Lee 2007, p. 300). Power visible is the ability to influence decision making and thus, can be observed. This power is sourced from specific mandates, for example a company's Chief Executive Officer's power is visible and inherent in his position. Power invisible, on the other hand, is not always observable. It is the shaping of people's wants and needs which is normally embedded social, cultural and ideological norms and values. For example, in the early 1970s, an American manager deployed somewhere in Japan has no visible power to fire an employee because of the cultural and social norm in the county of 'life time' employment. Question # 3 Part A Figure 1 Spray Diagram Part B 1. The Community - being the most affected by the wastes and toxins emitted and discharged by the United States' healthcare systems. The people, as the community, are directly affected because of the diseases resulting from exposures to toxins released by the healthcare system. This considering the rising cost of healthcare. 2. The Healthcare Systems and its Components - if the healthcare system doesn't shape up in light of its impact to the environment and to the community, affected stakeholders such as the community and the government will likely demand penalties. The Healthcare System is composed of clinics, hospitals, doctors, suppliers, pharmaceuticals, incinerator operators, and its employees. 3. The Government - as the overseer of the whole system which includes the healthcare system and overseer of the welfare of the average American, the government can not help but to take a firm hand on how the healthcare system manages its wastes. Part C Based on the discussion and the spray diagram, surely I am as much at risk as the average American. The effects of exposure to toxins such as the chlorine content of polyvinyl chloride or PVC and mercury are not selective. These toxins can affect anyone, anytime. Chlorine from PVC "forms cancer-causing dioxin as a byproduct when manufactured and incinerated" (HermanMiller 2007, p. 4). Most of the diseases resulting from exposure to the toxins and dioxins released from the wastes of the different components are fatal while all of them requires high amount of money to cure. In my opinion, the Hippocratic Oath of physicians should be expanded and include the well being not only of individual

Dynamics of Strategy Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Dynamics of Strategy - Dissertation Example The current study tries to investigate the strategies that are pursed by Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc and whether they are successful or not? Especially in context of on-line business that has opened up numerous options for the organization that can be effectively tapped. An extensive external business environment evaluation will be undertaken for determining the impact of external factors on company’s strategy (Tassou S & Ge Y, retrieved on 20th April, 2011). The e-strategic resource capability of Morrison would be analyzed in order to figure out its potential and capacity to meet the current demand and requirement of the retail industry. And lastly, it will also be examined whether Morrison is in strategic fir with the environment or needs certain reconstruction in its policies and procedures to sustain in the competitive league (Scotland H, 2005). INTRODUCTION Wm Morrison Supermarket plc is generally referred to as ‘Morrison’ which was initially propounded by W illiam Morrison way back in the year 1899, one of the most important organization featuring in the FTSE 100 Index with almost 375 stores in operations currently. The organization is widely spread in both the northern and southern part of England and strong presence in other regions as well. The organization prefers to keep its working as simple as possible but renders it services efficiently and effectively with the company policy to keep the pricing low and maintaining high efficiency level. The study would analyze the strategic approaches of Wm Morrison Supermarket plc through traditional marketing tools such as PESTEL, Porter’s five forces model, along with emergent and international market strategy on e-business or online business strategy adopted by Morrison.. The company’s financial decision making and risk analysis approach would also be studied intensively. The term in itself is too wide; e-business can actually describe the organizations operation. E-business also reveals the various applications of information and communication technologies that a business can apply for attaining a cost reduction, enhancement in customer quality services and creating a new market for exiting products and for newly developed products. Morrison can effectively make use of e-business strategy in order to maximize its competitive advantage. However, what Morrison actually needs to work upon is: 1) The excessive high costs which the firm has incurred in the ICT investment and also the financial analysis for the investment amount regarding its payback time period and the profits which can be recovered from the same. 2) The organization has to ensure that best technical skills and managerial skills must be available for putting the strategy into actual implementation. 3) Thirdly the disinclination of the firm towards marinating networking relationships with other enterprises must be overcome for attaining optimum results. EXTERNAL ANALYSIS Morrison’s vi sion for the future is to exhibit itself as a ‘

Formulating Analyzing & Researching Tourism Policy Essay - 3

Formulating Analyzing & Researching Tourism Policy - Essay Example The developmental policy of the Gatwick policy is to â€Å"ensure that Gatwick’s operation and development effectively address national, regional and local objectives for economically, socially and environmentally responsible development† (GAOMP p. 3). Regarding the environmental issues, special care is taken by the policy designers to address issues that are related to ‘air quality and air noise’ as well as ‘ground noise, biodiversity and resource use† (GAOMP p. 4). Similarly, it is also mandatory that the Gatwick policy gives due importance to ‘safety and security on the ground and in the air’ while designing the buildings and structures for the proposed plan. The legal limits to Gatwick policy are set by the airspace policy and air traffic control put by the UK Government and National Air Traffic services. Consequently, the new policy should give predominance to the four objectives for sustainable development. These four objectiv es include â€Å"Social progress which recognizes the needs of everyone†, â€Å"Effective protection of the environment†, â€Å"prudent use of natural resources† and â€Å"maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment† (GAOMP P. 7). The air port development also needs to take into account the developmental control guidelines set out in town and country planning legislation, circulars and guidance and should cope up with the airport design criteria set by the Civil Aviation Authority, the airport security guidelines set by the Department of Transport and the safeguard aerodrome and public safety zones (GAOMP P. 13). If the tour is not properly planned considering all the aspects it can cause many socio-economic and environmental problems. Avoiding these negative impacts must be the priority of the policy makers. The local authority support is also a significant requirement for the development.

Making Sense of Strategy II Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Making Sense of Strategy II - Essay Example In order to maintain a successful brand image of an organization in international perspectives are to offer high concentration over the factor conditions. The prime domestic factor conditions of the industry of telecommunication might be capital and quality of infrastructure. This is because, it is the capital or the revenue that helps an organization operating in this segment i.e. telecom to amplify it is growth and expansions in other international nations or countries. Similarly, the organization of Oman Tel invested a huge amount of capital or revenue in order to develop it is 3G and 4G network connections. Other than this, by investing a huge amount of revenue worth OMR 116 million by the organization of Oman Tel proved extremely effective for it to expand it is network connections in numerous rural as well as developed countries of the entire world. As a result of which, the organization of Oman Tel became successful in positioning it is 3G and 4G network among the target custo mers of Oman. As a result, the brand value and market share of the broadband connections increased by 61.6 percent as compared to many other rival contenders. In addition, the organization of Oman Tel also decided to offer high-ended services to the target customers so as to amplify it is equity and uniqueness in the market of Oman. Along with this, the organization of Oman Tel implemented low tariff plans in order to increase it is range of customers and to retain the existing ones so as to amplify it is competitive advantage and sustainability in the market among many other rival contenders (OmanTel, 2014). In addition to this, the organization of Oman Tel implemented the plan of unlimited usage in order to enhance it is position and reputation in the market of Oman among it is target segments. Due to which, the organization of Oman Tel became successful in

Formulating Analyzing & Researching Tourism Policy Essay - 3

Formulating Analyzing & Researching Tourism Policy - Essay Example The developmental policy of the Gatwick policy is to â€Å"ensure that Gatwick’s operation and development effectively address national, regional and local objectives for economically, socially and environmentally responsible development† (GAOMP p. 3). Regarding the environmental issues, special care is taken by the policy designers to address issues that are related to ‘air quality and air noise’ as well as ‘ground noise, biodiversity and resource use† (GAOMP p. 4). Similarly, it is also mandatory that the Gatwick policy gives due importance to ‘safety and security on the ground and in the air’ while designing the buildings and structures for the proposed plan. The legal limits to Gatwick policy are set by the airspace policy and air traffic control put by the UK Government and National Air Traffic services. Consequently, the new policy should give predominance to the four objectives for sustainable development. These four objectiv es include â€Å"Social progress which recognizes the needs of everyone†, â€Å"Effective protection of the environment†, â€Å"prudent use of natural resources† and â€Å"maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment† (GAOMP P. 7). The air port development also needs to take into account the developmental control guidelines set out in town and country planning legislation, circulars and guidance and should cope up with the airport design criteria set by the Civil Aviation Authority, the airport security guidelines set by the Department of Transport and the safeguard aerodrome and public safety zones (GAOMP P. 13). If the tour is not properly planned considering all the aspects it can cause many socio-economic and environmental problems. Avoiding these negative impacts must be the priority of the policy makers. The local authority support is also a significant requirement for the development.

Investigative Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Investigative Report - Essay Example Supermarket employees followed closely at 43%, retail employees at 35%, hospital employees at 33%, and manufacturing employees at 28% (Pedneault 16). As the world continues to experience social changes, it is likely that companies will experience more employee theft incidences as jobs increasingly become temporary and employees continue to change jobs or maintain multiple careers. As a manufacturing company, New York Rubber Company has experienced several cases of employee theft. In the first half of 2013 alone, at least 15 cases of employee theft have been recorded by the security department. The losses that the organization has incurred as a result of employee theft within the period totals at least $140,000. Going by the statistics, it is beyond doubt that employee theft is an issue that should be taken seriously. Employee thefts impact negatively on consumers and the operations of New York Rubber Company at large. In this respect, we need to understand what employee theft entails so as to be able to formulate better control and prevention measures. Employee theft is not only of interest to us as an activity that must be prevented or regulated, but because it also shows the state of health of the relationship between employees and employers. This report investigates employee theft in the workplace and its consequences. Finally, the report will investigate the causes and use evidence to suggest possible solutions to employee theft in an organization. Employee theft remains one of the major concerns for many companies today. Research indicates that employee theft is commonplace in many companies. Employee theft is an unethical act that employees should not engage in when working for any company or organization. According to the ethical code of conduct, employees are required to refrain from stealing from a company as noted by Barefoot (5).

Morality in Politics Essay Example for Free

Morality in Politics Essay Civic virtue is the formation of habits of personal living that are claimed to be important for the success of the community. This term was important to Aristotle’s theories on politics. He felt that all humans should take pleasure in civic virtue and that it was essential for living â€Å"the good life†. Today, our democratic government is well-suited to promote civic virtue and participation of all people in the country. Although times have changed since Aristotle’s days, this ideology can be seen actively in our society. One of the main ideas in Aristotle’s philosophy was teleos, or the purpose or goal of something. To fully understand something, we must also understand its teleos. For example, I have an apple. I know that it is red, kind of round, and grows on a tree, but the real purpose or teleos of that apple to me is food. As far as humans go, Aristotle says that humans are meant to be happy. To be happy, humans must live a life of virtue, which means they always choose what is morally good. Humans have the abilities to think and speak, and therefore decide what is good and bad, right and wrong, etc. People that may think they are living a good life but are not making moral decisions are not truly happy in Aristotle’s eyes. Politics provides a place for people to interact with each other, talk about what is right and wrong, just or unjust, and to make laws reflecting these things. It allows people to participate in their lives, make ethical decisions, and fulfill their happiness potential. Politics is dynamic, unlike math or science that are concrete and unchanging. People can work with each other in politics and work for the greater good. The development of civic virtue allows for a person to relate to their community. It helps them understand their ties to the community and responsibility within it. It helps them see beyond their own personal interests. Some examples of civic virtue would be voting, volunteering, or going to a town meeting. Today, anyone can participate in these things, but Aristotle believed differently. He held that women and slaves were not eligible to participate in politics, and very young men were not ready to participate because they did not understand how the society worked yet. Because of this, a small number of people in his time actually participated in politics compared to today. The American democratic government is well suited for civic virtue. The first reason is that everyone can participate, which means that everyone has the opportunity to become happy people living their life to the fullest. Anyone, provided they are 18 and a citizen, can vote. They can vote for the candidate they feel will represent their moral views and put them into action. People can run for office and put their views to work. Another reason is freedom of speech. Americans have the opportunity to speak freely about issues and share their opinions with others. This helps them create those habits of morality that become a part of their civic virtue. A third reason is the freedom to assemble. Any person can start a club or a group to meet with others. Active participation in public life is essential to civic virtue. A group may be a philanthropy group aimed at helping others. Reciprocity or giving back to the community is another key element of civic virtue. Virtue is closely related to free will. Through active participation, people develop their moral compass and they develop their ideas of what is right and wrong, and their habits of how to react in situations accordingly. People develop their own morality. How can one legislate free will? You cannot. But the legal system can shape morality. By setting laws in certain ways, people will develop their moral views around them. Laws can shape habits by reducing the frequency of certain acts. Giving prison time, fines, probation, and so on can help people learn that they do not want to do the things that caused those punishments. Laws can shape morality as well because people naturally draw influence from other sources. Some may create their moral background on the basis of religion or their family, but the law can be one of those influences as well. The legal system is important for developing morality in society and promoting civic virtue. Civic virtue is important in society. By actively participating in the community, Aristotle believes that people will be ultimately happy. The true purpose of humans is to be happy, and civic virtue is the pathway to this happiness. The American government gives many opportunities for people to participate in both politics and the community, which promotes civic virtue.

Edge Detection Using Kirsch Algorithms

Edge Detection Using Kirsch Algorithms Image processing is the study of representation and manipulation of pictorial information. In Image Processing, an edge is the boundary between an object and its background. Therefore, if the edges of images objects can be identified with precision, all the objects can be located and their properties such as area, perimeter and shape can be calculated. Edge detection is an essential tool for image processing. Edge detection is the process of locating the edge pixels. Then an edge enhancement will increase the contrast between the edges and the background in such a way that edges become more visible. In the edge function, the Sobel method uses the derivative approximation to find edges. Therefore, it returns edges at those points where the gradient of the considered image is maximum. The Kirsch Edge module detects edges using eight compass filters. All eight filters are applied to the image with the maximum being retained for the final image. The eight filters are a rotation of a basic compass convolution filter (RoboRealm, 2006). The proposal is organized as follows. First, describe the research problems statement, Research Objective, Hypothesis, Delimitations, Assumptions, Terms, significant of the Research Problem, Literature Review session. Lastly the Research Methodology and Conclusion sections respectively. Research Problem Problem Statements As a human being, we could not notice the petite lines of an image. We could only recognize an enormous range of objects from just line images such cartoons. Besides, in Malaysian, it is acknowledge that there is no system to identify the edges of the local cars. They prefer to choose the human faces, geometric shapes or the environment image as their image research. So, by using edge detection techniques, the result of detected edges image could show us the lines or edges from the obvious lines to the tiniest lines of that certain image (Brendan McCane, 2001). For example, Prewit Edge Detector for detection of edges in digital images corrupted with different kinds of noise (Raman Maini, 2005). In the edge function, the Sobel method uses the derivative approximation to find edges where it returns edges at those points where the gradient of the considered image is maximum. The Kirsch Edge module detects edges using eight compass filters. All eight filters are applied to the image with the maximum being retained for the final image. The eight filters are a rotation of a basic compass convolution filter (RoboRealm, 2006). Research Objectives The objectives of this study are: 1) To identify edge detection of image processing system on Malaysian cars. 2) To be able to draw a bitmap result where edges are either in gray scaled or colored for enhancement of edges in an image. 3) To compare the edge detection methods to one another by using the Prewit Edge Detector, Sobel Edge Detector and Kirsch Edge Detector. 2.3 Hypothesis Believe that by implementing different edge detecting algorithms, verified images will be more exact and precise in terms of image accuracy and clarity. 2.4 Delimitations The edge detections will only be analyzing between Sobel, Prewit and Kirsch algoritms. The image processing edge detection does not contain any hierarchical structure but only groups of local cars images. 2.5 Assumptions The participants are familiar the basic knowledge of edge detection to ensure they realize what is happening during the experimental session. They are not trained to identify the difference between the 3 algorithms given to them All participants are at least two year experience in image processing activities to make sure that they could determine what the purpose of this research is. Terms Noise = amount of distortion of a pixel value against the frequency of images Thresholding = separates the pixels in ways that tend to preserve the boundaries Filter = Process by which we can enhance or otherwise modify images. 2.6 Research Significance The image of Malaysian cars will be captured as the input. The each of the images edges will be detected either by using the Prewit Edge Detector, Sobel Edge Detector or Kirsch Edge Detector. If the user chooses to see the output of Prewit Edge Detector, the result of detected edges will be appear on the panel and same goes to if they choose the Sobel Edge Detector or the Kirsch Edge Detector. They could choose all of the three edge detectors for more precise observation. The result also will be compare with the human views to get the similarity of edge detecting against it. Literature Review Introduction to Image Processing Edge Detection In Image Processing, an edge is the boundary between an object and its background. They represent the frontier for single objects. Therefore, if the edges of images objects can be identified with precision, all the objects can be located and their properties such as area, perimeter and shape can be calculated. Edge detection is an essential tool for image processing. Edge detection is the process of locating the edge pixels. Then an edge enhancement will increase the contrast between the edges and the background in such a way that edges become more visible. In addition, edge tracing is the process of following the edges, usually collecting the edge pixels into a list. In the edge function, the Sobel method uses the derivative approximation to find edges. Therefore, it returns edges at those points where the gradient of the considered image is maximum. The horizontal and vertical gradient matrices whose dimensions are 3-3 for the Sobel method has been generally used in the edge detection operations. In this work, a function is developed to find edges using the matrices whose dimensions are 5-5 in matlab (Shigeru A, 2000). Since edge detection is in the forefront of image processing for object detection, it is crucial to have a good understanding of edge detection algorithms. Prewit Edge Detector for detection of edges in digital images corrupted with different kinds of noise. Different kinds of noise are studied in order to evaluate the performance of the Prewitt Edge Detector (Raman Maini, 2005). The Kirsch Edge module detects edges using eight compass filters. All eight filters are applied to the image with the maximum being retained for the final image. The eight filters are a rotation of a basic compass convolution filter (RoboRealm, 2006). 3.2 Comparisons of Edge Detection Techniques a) Sobel Sobel edge detector using convolutions with row and column edge gradient masks (Percy S, 2001). Applies a 3-3 convolution filter row-wise in order to determine the gradient of the surrounding pixels. Pixel is a member of an edge if the intensity of it is greater than that of the members of its surrounding pixels. The Sobel edge detection filter uses the two 3-3 templates to calculate the gradient value. 1 2 1 -1 0 1 -1 -2 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 -1 -1 Figure 1: Sobel Algorithm X Y Original image Sobel Edge Detection Original image Figure 1.1: Sobel Edge Detection Output b) Prewit Prewit Edge Detector for detection of edges in digital images corrupted with different kinds of noise. Different kinds of noise are studied in order to evaluate the performance of the Prewit Edge Detector (Raman Maini, 2005). This is similar to the Sobel detector Operates under the same principle except that it uses a different (simpler) convolution kernel. -1 0 1 -1 0 1 -1 0 1The Prewitt edge detection filter uses the two 3-3 templates to calculate the gradient value. -1 -1 -1 0 0 0 1 1 1 Figure 2: Prewit Algorithm X Y Original image Prewitt Edge Detection Original image Figure 2.1: Prewit Edge Detection Output c) Kirsch The Kirsch Edge module detects edges using eight compass filters. All eight filters are applied to the image with the maximum being retained for the final image. The eight filters are a rotation of a basic compass convolution filter (Mike Heath, 2001).The filters are of the form: 5 5 5 -3 -3 -3 -3 -3 -3 5 -3 -3 5 -3 -3 5 -3 -3 Figure 3: Kirsch Algorithm X Y Original image Kirsch Edge Detection Original image Figure 3.1: Kirsch Edge Detection Output 3.3 Thresholding The idea of thresholding is to apply a boundary-finding method (such as edge detection), sample of the histogram that are only near where the boundary probability is high. The benefit of thresholding is to separates the pixels in ways that tend to preserve the boundaries. Besides that, other scattered distributions within the object or the background are irrelevant. But, the problems if the characteristics change along the boundary, it still no guarantee you wont have extraneous pixels or holes (IgorPro, 2006). The advantages of thresholding can be declared that it is simple to implement, fast especially if repeating on similar images and it is good for some kinds of images such as documents, controlled set-ups. The disadvantages of thresholding can be assume that it is usually not very good segmentation, there are no guarantees of object coherency such as they may have holes, extraneous pixels, and so on and there are connected component labeling can then be used to label separate foreground regions. METHODOLOGY This chapter provides methodology that used to develop text search engine prototype. Methodology is a study of methods, a set of procedures and selecting data. All of workflow involved in the implementation of this project is explained from the beginning to the end. Project Formulation Framework Figure 4: Overview of Project Formulation Framework Project Framework Summary Phase Objectives Deliverables Planning 1) To identify and understand potential problems. 2) Ensure goals, scope, budget, schedule, methods and tools are in place. 1) Define the problem statement, objectives, scope and contribution of study. 2) Collecting images of Malaysian cars. Analysis 1) Analyzing the system requirement. 2) Analyze the edge detection algorithms used for the system (Sobel, Prewit and Kirsch). 1) Prototype requirement and requirement model. 2) Identify the comparison of the algorithms chosen. Design 1) Design the prototype interface and the coding (classes and object). 2) Design function and algorithms. 1) System and Detailed design. 2)GUI interface Implementation 1) Translate design into code New application Testing 1)Pre-test and pro-test the application Test the application Data Collection The data collection is the most critical process in this project. As mentioned earlier, this study will only focus on Malaysian cars. Before developed the application tool, all information must be collected first. This stages involved data collection about sample of Malaysian car images and project requirements which are hardware and software requirements. The sample images of the car will be captured by using digital camera. The main hardware system in order to capture an image is the camera to grab the image of the cars. The images are in a bitmapped or digital image format. Besides that, this study also gathered information from internet. It was the greatest finding for this project. From internet, more information can be explored in detail such as about bitmapped image model, journals and articles about previous researches which related to this project the Malaysian cars itself and many more. 4.4 Prototype Development Throughout the development of the application, there were involving some steps. After all the information gathered, the development processes take place. Firstly, as an input the image of the Malaysian cars must be captured. A digital camera was used to acquire the images. There were 10 images of different category of Malaysian cars as samples for this project. In capturing the images, hardware system also involved. The camera will use to grab the image and the computer system will do the image processing and data analysis for the images. The images were scanned to convert them into digital form. Experiment and Procedure In the experimental task, the participants will be given the Malaysian car images. They will run the application by choosing different car images and test all the images to the different edge detection algorithm provided to them. The output which is the result of comparison between those 3 algorithms (Sobel, Prewitt and Kirsch) will be recorded. The user, based on his/her experience will determine the sharp, sharper and sharpest result of edge detected images from system. Here, they might recognize which edge detector is more accurate in image clarity capturing. The summary of the experiment is as follows; Pretest Participants choose Malaysian cars images and tryout them using the algorithms provided. Posttest /Treatment Participants evaluate the result which edge detection algorithm is the sharp, sharper or sharpest. Observation My experiment used one-group pretest and posttest design.7. The group participated in both pre-experiment evaluation and post-experiment evaluation sequentially. The design is represented as follows: Group Time Æ’Â   Group 1 Observation 1 (using Sobel Algorithm with and without thresholding) Observation 2 (using Prewit Algorithm with and without thresholding) Observation 3 (using Kirsch Algoritm with and without thresholding) Figure 5: Experimental design 7 Experimental Design Number 7: pretest and posttest design. Data Analyses After collecting all the data from their query results from the participants, we use the following standard criteria for evaluating retrieval for effectiveness of search are used . The keyword-based search and the ontology-based search have been evaluated using the following formula: Comparison of Edge Detectors Image Sharpness Based on Thresholding Value Bil Type of Malaysian Cars Sobel Prewit Kirsch 1 Perodua Kelisa Sharpest Sharper Sharp 2 Perodua Kenari Sharpest Sharper Sharp 3 Perodua Kembara Sharpest Sharper Sharp 4 Proton Wira Sharpest Sharper Sharp 5 Proton Waja Sharpest Sharp Sharper 6 Proton Satria Neo Sharpest Sharper Sharp 7 Perodua Kancil Sharpest Sharper Sharp 8 Proton Saga Aeroback Sharpest Sharp Sharper 9 Proton Satria Sharper Sharpest Sharp 10 Perodua Myvi Sharpest Sharper Sharp Table 1: Approximate image sharpness of the algorithms based on 10 of Malaysian car images Sharp Result (Percentage) Edge Detectors Sobel Prewit Kirsch 0/10*100 = 0% 2/10*100 = 20% 8/10*100 = 80% Table 2: Percentage for the Malaysian Cars Sharpness for sharp category Sharper Result (Percentage) Edge Detectors Sobel Prewit Kirsch 1/10*100 = 10% 7/10*100 = 70% 2/10*100 = 20% Table 3: Percentage for the Malaysian Cars Sharpness for sharper category Sharpest Result (Percentage) Edge Detectors Sobel Prewit Kirsch 9/10*100 = 90% 1/10*100 = 10% 0/10*100 =0% Table 4: Percentage for the Malaysian Cars Sharpness for sharpest category Figure 6: Histogram for the comparison result for precision According to the Figure 6, based on Table 2, Table 3 and Table 4, the sharp, sharper and sharpest result is based from the thresholding value of 60. In making this research, some important lesson or experience has been learned. After the project successfully developed and tested, the result from the testing is analyzed. The results are between human viewing and prototype viewing. By analysis and compare the results the accuracy of the project is determined. It also use as a measurement to the third objective of the project. If the project result is accurate, the third objective is successfully achieved. 5.3 Recommendation There are also some future expansions that can be done in order to improve this prototype. This prototype developed for computer platform only. This prototype can be developed in the PDA or handheld hand phone. Recommendation for future is the samples of Malaysian cars should be various because from that the result can be more accurate. 5.4 Conclusion There are many ways to perform edge detection. Various edge detection algorithms have been developed in the process of finding the perfect edge detector. Some of the edge detection operators that are discussed in this thesis are Prewitt, Sobel, and Kirsch operators. In this case, there are three criteria for optimal edge detections. First good detection where the optimal detector must minimize the probability of false positives, as well as that of false negatives. Second, good localization where the edges detected must be as close as possible to the true edges and finally, single response constraint where the detector must return one point only for each true edge point; that is, minimize the number of local maxima around the true edge (Trucco, 2006).

Painting What We See Within: A Look at the Insides of Art Therapy Essay

Painting What We See Within: A Look at the Insides of Art Therapy One of the most memorable experiences I had last summer was visiting the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland. (3)At this museum, professional artists had created none of the works hanging on the walls. Visionary art is an individualized expression by people with little or no formal training; the rules of art as a school did not apply here. While I was there, I learned that for many years, the artwork created by patients of mental institutions, hospitals, and nursing homes were disregarded and destroyed by their caretakers. After seeing what powerful and telling work came from many people in these situations, I found this information to be very distressing. Fortunately, the development of art as a form of therapy has changed the medical attitude toward art created by the healing in the past fifty years. While the work created through this therapy is rarely showcased as at the American Visionary, it is aiding therapists and their clients in reaching a new awareness. Art therapy uses media and the creative process in healing, the key word here being process. We all know how revealing the artwork of children can be of their emotions. Art therapy applies this concept across the spectrum in a multitude of situations. It functions in many of the same settings as conversational therapy: mental health or rehabilitation facilities, wellness centers, educational institutions, nursing homes, in private practices or in a client's home. An art therapist may work with an individual or group, in families or couples. While most therapy is based on conversation between the therapist and his or here client/s, art therapy integrates visual communication into th... .... Personally, I don't see why the developments in the study of art therapy shouldn't change our attitudes toward creative arts in general. When was the last time you sat down with crayons and drew a picture, or put on your favorite song and danced just for the heck of it? Sure, if you are creatively talented you might study art or music, but through as we get older we take even our most creative work too seriously. We try to make it good according to external standards rather than doing it for our own good. In the broader sense of things, I don't think art therapy is just for the healing. I believe our lives would be brighter and less stressful if we got into the habit of being just a little creative every day. Internet Sources: 1)http://www.arttherapy.org/ 2)http://www.avam.org/ 3)http://www.artsintherapy.com/ 4)http://www.creativeresponse.org.uk/

GM crops Essay

For thousands of years farmers have used a process of selection and cross breeding to improve the quality of our crops. The problem with GM crops is that there is little known about what effect they will have in 20 years’ time. The genetic structure of any living organism is complex and GM crop tests focus on short-term effects. Not all the effects of introducing a foreign gene into the intricate genetic structure of an organism are tested. Will the pests that a crop was created to resist eventually become resistant to this crop? GM crops may also pose a health risk to native animals that eat them. The animals may be poisoned by the built-in pesticides. Tests in the U. S. showed that 44% of caterpillars of the monarch butterfly died when fed large amounts of pollen from GM corn. Very little scientific information exists about the risk of GM food on human health. One major report by Dr. Arpad Pusztai, explains how GM foods could trigger new allergies and contain toxins that may be harmful. Another concern is disease. Since some crops are modified using the DNA from viruses and bacteria, will we see new diseases emerge? What about the GM crops that have antibiotic-resistant marker genes? Marker genes are used by scientists to determine whether their genetic modification of a plant was successful. Will these antibiotic-resistant genes be transferred to microorganisms that cause disease? We already have a problem with ineffective antibiotics. How can we develop new drugs to fight these new bugs? Then there is always the possibility that we may not be able to destroy GM crops once they spread into the environment. Proponents of GM crops claim that advantages may be many, such as: Improved storage and nutritional quality Pest and disease resistance Selective herbicide tolerance Tolerance of water, temperature and saline extremes Improved animal welfare Higher yields and quality Cross-pollination is a concern for both GM crops and conventional breeding, especially with the more serious weeds that are closely related to the crops. With careful management this may be avoided. They are an ever-increasing problem and genetic engineering promises to stop it. But will genes from GM plants spread to other plants, creating superweeds and superbugs we won’t be able to control? When looking at the environmental impacts of grass- and grain-fed beef, â€Å"there is a 500% increase in greenhouse gas emissions for each pound of beef produced from grass-fed compared to grain-fed cattle. Uncontrolled nitrogen and phosphate release to the environment, 35% more water use, and 30% more land use for grass-fed cattle compared to grain-fed increases the environmental impact of strictly grass feeding. † Cholesterol content does not differ between grass- or grain-fed beef. Today, there is an estimated two-thirds of all our products in supermarkets contain genetically engineered ingredients, including; tortilla chips, drink mixes, taco shells, veggie burgers, muffin mix, and baby formulas. But only one-third of Americans are aware that their food contain genetically engineered ingredients, despite the findings of surveys that 85 to 90% of consumers want clear labeling of all genetically engineered foods. Because labeling is not yet required by government regulations, nor practiced by biotech companies, there is absolutely no way for consumers to know what it is that they are eating. The public has not been educated of the inadequacy of genetically modified ingredients in their diets and the possible risks that these foods may entail. The credibility of these geneticists is also questionable because almost all established molecular geneticists have some industrial ties limiting what they can research on, particularly with regard to safety. There is no way of knowing the overall, long-term effects of genetically engineered foods on human health. This unpredictability appears to be causing the most controversy over genetically modified foods, as there is insufficient evidence and need for further research. The effect of the insertion on the biochemistry of the host organism is unknown. The effect of the genetically engineered organism on the environment is unknown. The effect of eating genetically engineered foods is unknown. There is no basis for meaningful risk assessment. There is no recovery plan in case of disaster. It is not even clear, who, if anyone will be legally liable for the negative consequences. There are no consequences among scientists on the safety or on the risks associated with genetic engineering in agriculture. The international community is deeply divided on the issue. In addition to these, genetically engineered foods may cause the removal of important food elements. For example, genetic engineers may intentionally remove or inactivate a substance they consider undesirable in a food, which may have unknown but crucial qualities, such as cancer-inhibiting abilities. Examples such as this are perhaps especially frightening because of the potential to find cures to some of the illnesses and diseases that have already laid claim to many lives. Failure to do further research in this case would be a shame, as it could lead to an elimination of possible breakthroughs in medicine and health. The current state of biotechnology must be fixed because every living organism is affected by it because everything is composed of genes. If the food being consumed contains products of genetic modification, the public is at risk to the unpredictable effects on their own physiology and biochemistry-effects that may not be reversible. Not only could this cause problems in their own lives presently, but it could also affect future generations, in ways that are unforeseen yet preventable. Moreover there is not enough understanding of the principles of genetic engineering to categorize those genetic modifications that may pose a risk and those that may not because genes appear to react in diverse ways when spliced with other genes. Genes are a part of an extremely complex and interconnected network and are constantly reacting to their environment. Further research must be enacted, and biotech companies and the government must do their moral/ethical duty to inform the public, because ultimately, they are the ones making the decisions.

Reflection on Film: Psycho Essay

In the movie Psycho, we see a character that is the one at fault but is so sweet she is obviously the victim here. When the $40,000 is no longer what we see from Marion Crane, it is because she was murdered, she is now the victim. Robert Ebert, from the Chicago Sun Times states â€Å"Marion Crane does steal $40,000, but still she fits the Hitchcock mold of an innocent to crime.† She was originally at fault here, and then she is brutally murdered for no reason by Norman Bates, who now becomes the center of attention. We must now figure him out! â€Å"Marion has overheard the voice of Norman’s mother speaking sharply with him, and she gently suggests that Norman need not stay here in this dead end, a failing motel on a road that has been bypassed by the new interstate. She cares about Norman. She is also moved to rethink her own actions. And he is touched. So touched, he feels threatened by his feelings. And that is why he must kill her.† states Ebert. This point being made, never occurred to me while watching the movie, I saw just a crazy guy that thought she was pretty and his â€Å"mother† didn’t want him to be with her, so out of fear he killed her. Psycho was a great film that truly was the setup up for future horror films. It is the masterpieces of Hitchcock that really set the standard of movies we see today, he is the master of them and people use his example. Psycho being this horror movie that has a huge unexpected twist in the plot really makes you feel for the characters and engages you in to the film, you almost feel like you are with Marion in the bath tub while she is murdered, you can feel your heart pound from the screeching sound of the music. Everything that was put in this movie was put there for a reason and it all pulls you right in with it.

Analysis of the Roots That Created Bigger Thomas

Thomas, give rise to strident yet silent clues, which will help understand some of the underlying roots that drove Bigger Thomas to submit to a life of criminal activities. The first aspect that contributes to Mr.. Thomas' downfall Is the brutal and unfair racial perceptions of his time. Bigger Thomas is accused of a crime which he did not commit. The rape of a white wealthy woman named Mary. Although Bigger Thomas did not commit the rape, he will always be accused of such behavior for being black. As stated by Bigger himself: † All those white men In a group, guns In their hands, ant be wrong.I do not know of what but I know that I am no good†. Richard Wright wants to show that although what occurs to Bigger Thomas is strictly accidental and innocent, the white man's oppression has the power to turn any black man into a beast, a rapist, and a killer. It is inevitable! In other words, Bigger Thomas represents the black race as a whole, the black man to be more specific. N o matter how innocent the black man is at first or at birth, circumstances and life changing events will turn him into what he was preconceived to be: a beast.The second aspect that contributes to Bigger Thomas' creation and destruction is his family. Bigger Thomas, like most African-Americans of his time, was raised without a father, whether It be through abandonment or unfortunate accident. At an early age, Bigger Thomas Is forced to assume the Father figure of the household. HIS mother's constant disapproval of him as well as his younger sister's criticism weighs heavily on the person he became: a Black man who will never have the respect he deserves from society as well as his family. The third aspect that added to the creation and destruction of Bigger Thomas is he Dalton.One symbolic view that supports this idea is the fact that Mrs.. Dalton is blind. She is blind to the social stigma of blackness, prejudices, and injustices around her. Mr.. Dalton on the other hand, even from a good heart, does not realize his contributions to the collapse of many men like Bigger Thomas. Although he views himself as a philanthropist, racial laws that Mr.. Talon's business abides to concerning housing leave the blacks feeling exploited and used. The Dalton do not realize the effect of racism on the oppressed and the effect of racism on the oppressor.They represent the small percentage of whites that view themselves as advocates for the black race while being completely oblivious to the harm that they are actually causing. Although external stimuli sun as racial prejudices, oppression, ten lack AT respect from society and from his family have a say to the demise of Bigger Thomas, it would be unjust to not also give Bigger his share of responsibility. Bagger's his own person and should be able to see the difference between right or wrong. However, it is clear that growing up in the circumstances that Bigger Thomas did, one could say he never stood a chance in hell.

Journal Entry Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Journal Entry - Coursework Example Every person can work according to their own talent and skills and hence, every person can work according to their interest. However, collaboration is still regarded as a team work. This is one of the things that I feel are most important for everyone to understand because this may be one of the biggest problems that one may face while working with new people. Since I have taken this course I have tried to implement all ways of collaboration I have learnt through this course. It really is helping me throughout. When I get into a group work I always recommend this kind of working which makes it easier for all of us to work. This course, not only told us ways to work in collaboration, but also told us examples where people are working in interdisciplinary collaboration. For example in films, everybody works in their own department. The actors are supposed to act, the choreographers are supposed to choreograph; the editors are supposed to edit and so on. During the whole process, nobody interrupts in any others work, hence a successful film. During this course we got many surprising visitors that gave us their experiences about working in collaboration and working according to others’ disciplines and their disciplines combine. They told us that they had their tasks done before time and perfectly. They also shared with us how they kept on a smooth and friendly environment throughout. This was probably one of the biggest inspirations that my fellow mates and I got. Throughout, this course has offered me a lot to study about further. I personally got the curiosity in me that have lead me to do further research on interdisciplinary and collaboration work. I personally think that this course has helped me and it will help me in the upcoming years. This course has most definitely helped me during my group projects that I have worked on with people I know and people I don’t know. I was surprised how my ideas worked out well

England Echo Towns (Housing Development) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

England Echo Towns (Housing Development) - Essay Example As the preliminary step, Department for Communities and Local Government announced a project to build up 10 eco-towns. This project proposal was duly supported by organisations such as Town and Country Planning Association. However, some institutions are sceptical about the success of the proposed project. Although the government got many suggestions on the proposed eco-towns, none of the plans was worth enough to ensure the effectiveness of the project framework. Subsequent to the long term discussions and consultation, the government published a new planning policy statement in 2009 that contained the basic ideas for the eco-towns. This paper will explore the sustainability of England’s eco-towns from a planning perspective. Features of England’s eco-town project England’s eco-town project is an innovative idea as it is highly relevant to the modern concept of infrastructural development. One of the objectives of eco-town project agreement is to build up 5,000 to 15,000 low carbon homes. The most significant feature of this project is that it would sharply comply with the framed set of environmental criteria; and hence the whole town under this plan would be carbon neutral (Eco-Town Report). This fascinating feature of the new project would assist the nation to mitigate its energy consumption rates. Similarly, the infrastructural facilities designed for this project ensure the public access to adjacent towns and cities in order to satisfy their requirements including jobs, transport, and services. Hopefully, a fixed percentage of new homes under this project would be affordable to all people. However, other varieties such as larger houses would also be available under this plan so as to meet the requirements of families with children and poor economic status. In short, the concept of eco-towns addresses the needs of different classes of the society by offering them diverse ranges of lifestyle facilities. In addition, the eco-towns will be leveraged with schools, shops, business space, and other modern facilities within the vicinity. The concept of eco-towns is a modified version of â€Å"green towns in Hammarby in Stockholm, Sweden and Vauban in Freiburg, Germany† (Q & A: Ecotowns, 2008). At the initial stage of the project, the government declared 15 locations across the England as the potential area for the project. In order to focus on each project effectively, the government has whittled down the 15 locations to10 after a three months’ local consultation phase. Among the 10 shortlisted locations, the government has decided to build 5 eco-towns by the end of 2016. The construction of remaining half portion of eco-towns has put off to 2020. In order for formulating an effective plan for these towns, some most celebrated architects are still working on this project. As some other notable features, the homes will be south-facing as it enables the ease capture of heat energy from the sun with the applic ation of photovoltaic panels. â€Å"There will also be plenty of green spaces, ample cycle lanes, and fewer roads for cars† (Q & A: Ecotowns, 2008). This expansional concept can be attributed to the developmental notions of Gordon Brown, the former prime minister of UK. Housing and environment were the two basic requirements according to Brown’s agenda. By designing this project, he thought to achieve both these