Tomorrow is a Fresh Start

Any day has the opportunity to be a good one as well as any day has the opportunity to be a bad one. Each individual day is on its own, having no relation to any previous day. Those days where it just keeps dragging on, and you can’t wait for the sun to rise in the morning to have a fresh start. This dreadful day has finally come to an end, but nothing picks you up more than the sunrise the next morning. The sunrise is saying that it is a new day, and is giving you an opportunity to either put the previous day behind you, or keep it with you and make the most out of your past experiences.Even though we look at the sunrise as just the sun rising above the horizon, there is much more to this action that not only affects us day to day, but for a lifetime. There are many times where you are not looking forward to the sunrise the next morning. It could be because of a big project due the next day, a test, or just going on with your unamusing life. Going to school is a big part in n ot wanting to get up in the morning. You may think that you are the only one who dreads waking up and having to take three tests, then run around the gym for 25 minutes, but you’re not alone.Many thoughts come into your mind on trying to figure out why you have to take these actions. You ask yourself; when will I ever use algebra in real life, why do I need to know what the 17th amendment is, or wonder what good it will do to know the capital of Zimbabwe. Everyone is forced to take these actions whether or not you think they are necessary. If laying in your bed for days was an option, everyone would take the easy road out. Some people go with this option and end up not making anything of themselves, because they are lazy and avoid any sort of challenge.Those who choose to get up, know where they would rather be, but are accepting any future challenges. When you finally do decide to get up in the morning and see the sunrise, you get that feeling in your gut that is really hopi ng for the day to just be over. Many emotions can come from the action of the sun rising, which happens every 24 hours. You know that there is nothing you can do to stop it, but will do everything in your power to avoid it. A sunrise can and should be looked at as a positive action.. It can be looked at as another day to add to your accomplishments, or to start over on a clean slate.When you wake up in the morning and the sun is slowly rising, an excitement occurs as the new day is approaching. Every day comes with a new challenge. This could be a big test, a championship game, or something as simple as buying a new dress for a special occasion. Many people are afraid . Some of these obstacles you may want to avoid or pass on to another day, but the sunrise is helping you conquer that obstacle. As the day of October 29th was coming to an end, I could not wait for the the sun to rise. There was so much that was going on the next day. I could barely sleep; all I wanted was it to be th e next day.When the sun finally rose, my birthday had arrived. I jumped out of my bed in excitement because this day had all the right tools to be perfect. I had a big soccer game going on, a nice lunch made for me, and no big test or quizzes going on during the day. Everything was going great until I looked outside for a moment. The sun was gone, and the moon had taken its place. I didn’t want this day to end. I was unsure on what the next day would lead to. As I thought about the day coming to an end more, I realized that the unknowingness is the best part of a new day.It may be bad, but I will never know what will happen unless I accept the sunrise. I woke up the next morning unamused to start the new day, knowing that it will not compare to the what had happened yesterday. But I did go in with an open mind, and ended up receiving hand fulls of candy. Not only was is Halloween, but the day had a positive vibe to it, that I never would’ve expected. If I had keep my m ind in the past and only focused on what had happened the day before, none of this could’ve happened. One specific sunrise that not only myself but everyone involved had mixed feelings about is the day of and after graduation.We have seen our peers go through it, and never imagined ourselves being in that situation. Some will look at the sunrise as it all coming to an end, and others will look at it as a new beginning. I am unsure on what my reaction will be when this day comes but know that I am forever grateful for everything that I have learned prior to this anticipated sunrise. This is one that can not be avoided, no matter how hard you try. When the sun rises on that perfect night, all of our lives will change. It won’t be instantly, but over time that sunrise will forever affect how we are as people.

Discrimination Concerning African Americans Essay

Differences in race lead to divergent levels of economic development within the United States. Analysts often try to explain this phenomenon by observing a specific ethnic group’s tradition and cultural ideology. Economists expand their analysis on the economic behaviors of African Americans by taking into consideration personal histories and value systems of the group under study. American families measure economic status in terms of income, and factors associated with material security as a whole. These factors may consist of health care, college funds, and retirement plans. However, African American families lag well behind when conceptualizing economic development under these terms. The reason is due to numerous instances of discrimination that occur in the U. S. Many of America’s public policies aid in the underdevelopment of non-white families. Increased economic development within America is the key to upward political and social mobility. If minorities are denied inevitable rights to equality, access to economic development becomes a highly difficult process. Despite America’s idealized view on equal opportunity, it is valid to assume that economic security has been limited on the basis of race. Therefore, it is important to investigate why white American families are economically better-off than non-white American families. One must take into account aspects of political participation, education, and the number of children a family has in the home in order to understand this research question. Contemporary Viewpoints: The lack of political participation of minority groups is a prevalent issue within the United States, explaining why non-white American families are less economically developed when compared to white American families. According to Douglas S. Massey (1995), minority families increasingly speak languages and bear cultures quite different than the established norms within the U. S. regime. He has found that ethnic groups carry their customs into new generations, leading many non-white families to become displaced and impoverished. Brinck Kerr and Will Miller (1997) believe that it is necessary for non-white American families to participate in elections in order to obtain equal representation that they are now lacking. They go on to say that political representation is the key to higher employment levels, and is a significant determinant to the minority share of professional positions. William H. Frey (1996) finds that immigrants usually encounter highly stratified society characterized by high income inequality leaving little room for upward mobility. In addition, Paula D. Mcklain (1990) assumes that non-white American families will continue to reside in low economic subcultures that are institutionally incomplete if they are represented at much lower ratios relative to the population portions of whites. Susan Welch (1990) has found that minority groups have not even achieved half their population proportions in political elections. These numbers are even lower than what they were a decade ago. She states that other factors that lead to low political participation within minority groups is that a substantial number of non-white American families are not citizens, and therefore are not eligible to vote. Also, Massey has found that America enacts policies that hinder the socioeconomic status of immigrants for they are underrepresented at virtually all levels and institutions in United States government. Moreover, Friedberg and Hunt (1995) have found that non-white American families receive less benefits than white families because of geographic segregation within the community. The various dispersion of minority families in different low-income areas within the U. S. makes it difficult for these families to be represented proportionally. Consequently, Rodney E. Hero and Caroline J. Tolbert (1995) believe minority families can now be easily manipulated by government because they are not equally accounted for. Therefore, non-white American families are not able to take advantage of economically developed determinants such as health care and retirement funds. The inscription of the Statue of liberty expresses to the world to â€Å"give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free†¦. † America continuously contradicts itself on the validity of this concept due to the increasingly economic tension between Caucasian and non-white families. Friedberg and Hunt (1995) give the example of Proposition 187, which makes many non-white American families ineligible for certain services such as public health. Non-white American families are not given the opportunity to take advantage of benefactors the U. S. offers to white American families. Therefore, Non-white American families lack of political participation, and unequal representation in governmental institutions and legislative bodies, leads them to be less economically developed than white American families. Education is another obstacle to economic development that non-white families face. Education is a vital tool to economic security. However, Melissa Marschall (1997) has found that current policies demonstrate minorities have been denied equal access to education. She has found that assignment systems based on assessments of language deficiencies or other individual needs are used to separate non-whites from whites. According to Jeffrey J. Mondack and Diana C. Mutz (1997), inequitable school financing is equally detrimental to non-white students. Funding for public schools comes from property taxes. They go along to say that predomintly non-white schools tend to be in central inner city school districts which have a smaller property tax base. In addition, the Office of Civil Rights has identified practices that are termed â€Å"second generation school discrimination†. Practices such as ability grouping, suspensions, and tracking may appear on the surface to be normal educational practices. When examining these components closer, Brick Kerr and Will Miller (1997) have found they have a negative impact on minority students. Ability grouping is a form of segregation that separates minority students from whites. They have found that before even attempting to teach non-white students, they are diagnosed with having linguistic or intellectual problems. The students are therefore required to take special and bilingual classes, making it difficult for them to succeed. According to Robert E. England (1986), non-white students are many times pulled out of regular classes and placed into bilingual classes only on the basis of ethnicity rather than their understanding of English. Brick and Miller go on to explain that suspensions are a second tactic used to encourage the failure of minority students in school. Non-white students are given more harsh disciplinary sentences than white students. Moreover, studies show that the ratio of minority students kicked out of school is disproportionately higher than whites, making the students more likely to drop out. Marschall has found that schools also advocate differences in ability grouping and discipline, leading to distinctions in tracking between non-whites and whites. The majority white students in high ability groups are often counseled to choose college preparatory tracks. However, minorities in low ability groups are counseled into vocational or general tracks, making them less likely to attend post-secondary education. Mondack and Mutz believe that the overall pattern of racial inequality the school system has created makes non-whites less likely to receive a quality education than whites. This truth makes it difficult for economic development to occur within non-white American families. The number of children in a family lead to increased poverty levels and low economic development within non-white American families. M. Klitsch (1990) has found that minority women have children at an extensively higher rate than that of white women. Also, he states that non-white women represent a small percentage of the population, however they account for a greater number of births. Alejandro Portes and Cynthia Truelove (1987) go on to say that non-white families are generally poorer than white families because of the higher number of children in the home. This leads them to be more likely to live below the poverty line. In addition, Genevieve M. Kenney and Nancy E. Reichman (1998) have found the population of non-whites increases faster than whites every year due to high fertility rates. Similarly, the two have found that fertility rates of non-whites families living in impoverished communities is almost double compared to white families. Klitsch has found that non-white families have an estimated 5. 5 people to a household, while white families only 3. 8. Therefore, these high rates lead to low socioeconomic status, and limited opportunities to increase economic security. According to Kenney and Reichman, the high fertility rates are due to low percentages of minorities who use contraceptives. They have also found that non-white women are less likely to have an abortion than white women. One might view this as a positive aspect. However, Portes and Truelove believe that one must take into account the over a quarter of minority families who have an income below the federal poverty line, which is almost one half greater than those of white families. Therefore, the high number of children within non-white American families make them more likely to experience economic deprivation than white American families. There has been an abundance of scholarly research previously conducted on the economic differences between white and non-white American families. They usually consist of data sources such as the U. S. Immigration and Naturalization Service, and the U. S. bureau of the Census. The Foreign Born Population of the United States and Statistical Reports are used with the previously listed sources to compare ethnic groups (Friedberg and Hunt, pg. 5). These databases yield cross-sectional designs that develop into time series reports in order to make assumptions on variables dealing with GNP and income, proving distinct differences in the races under study. For instance, researchers assume that white families are more economically developed than non-whites. This is because the average white American family makes $44,000 a year, and the average non-white American family does not make half this amount (6-7). These figures are valid in drawing conclusions about correlative relationships, satisfying important ideological factors necessary to study when dealing with the dependent variable of race. A more effective method of analysis was a study derived from interviews in a low income Los Angeles county. The participants were white and non-white females. The study was conducted between January 1984 and May 1985 (M. Kitsch, 136-137). In addition, the sample consisted of a three-stage cluster of census tracks, blocks, and household addresses. This cross-sectional design embodied research dealing with fertility rates of different races. The minority women proved to have higher fertility rates in low income sectors, leading Klitsch to question the different ways non-white American families conceptualize economic development. Non-white American families have to deal with numerous accounts of racial discrimination. It is difficult for a non-white American family to become economically stable in terms of income and security plans. The reason is due to being a minority in a predominately white America. Therefore, non-white American families are less economically developed than white American families because: H1 non-white American families are less likely to participate in elections than white American families. H2 non-white Americans are more likely to be discriminated against in school than white Americans. H3 the more children in a household, the more likely a family will be economically deprived. Implications and Conclusion: Education, political participation, and the number of children a family has all affect the levels of economic development within the household for white American families. Even though education levels has a stronger affect toward higher levels of income, when the three variables are measured together, they are all highly statistically significant. In non-white American homes, education levels appears to be the key determinant of their economic status. Further test need to be measured in reference to how the number of children a family has and political participation affect the economic security of non-white American families. With this, the above hypotheses will prove to have more validity. However, in both cases it was important to measure education, the number of children a family has, and political participation together in order to understand the affect these variables have on each other, and how this affect leads to higher or lower levels of economic development within the family. These multivariate studies are also important in predicting the affect the independent variables will have on total family income in the future. It can be assumed that the highest year of school completed will continue to have a strong affect toward economic development in the future for both white and non-white American families. In addition, the number of children in a white American family and their political participation are significant variables to measure when determining their economic standpoint in future years to come. There are alternative approaches to identifying explanations to why non-white American families are less economically developed than white American families. One example is the difference in income between non-white and white American families who have single parents and ones that have two parents. Another alternative approach is identifying education as only an antecedent variable, and observing how it relates to occupation, the true independent variable under study. From here, one can observe how economic development is related to a person’s occupation within the home. As anyone who walks the streets of America’s largest cities knows, there has been a profound transformation of different ethnic cultures within the United States. The rapidity of the change has led to growing competition of economic development between white and non-white American families. This competition has lead to ethnic prejudice and discrimination as the United States continues to assimilate into the melting pot for the American dream. Political participation, education, and the number of children within the home are variables that allow the transition to become a less arduous process for white American families. However, if non-white American families continue to do poorly in terms of economic development because of these variables, non-whites will continue to lag behind the income scale in comparison to whites. Research along these lines will lead to the study of relative differences between ethnic cultures. An example is the discovery of why almost half the number of minorities return to their country of origin after experiences of economic injustice. Previous research may also benefit other analysis in the field of economics by itemizing fertility rates in terms of the higher number of non-white American families who lack the finances to properly nourish their children. These new variables along with my research can in time become valid determinants in explaining why white American families are economically better off that non-white American families.

A Postmodern Paradox

A Postmodern Paradox Postmodernism, a paradox in itself, challenges conformity in countless ways. Taking place after World War II, this movement is mainly characterized by its rejection of social constructs and its challenges to traditional forms of philosophy, literature, art, and religious authority. Ironically, while it defied categorizing, it became a category itself. Nevertheless, this movement has had a profound impact on countless literary, cinematographic, art, and philosophic works. Two works that have been profoundly influenced by postmodernism includes Slaughterhouse 5 by Kurt Opponent, and the elm and book The Hours, by Michael Cunningham. While both works have been influenced by modernism in separate ways, they ultimately share its key themes: an abstraction of time, a rejection of reality, and a search for higher purpose. Through the use of postmodernism themes and literary techniques, both the movie and book were able to convey that absolute truth does not exist because it is relative, intricate, and blurred. Occurring in the post-World War II era, postmodernism can be considered an intentional departure from previously dominant modernist approaches such as scientific positivism, realism, constructivism, formalism, and tapestries. Through its emphasis and use of power relations, binary classifications, fragmentation, paradox, dark humor, rejection of reality, sociology, linguistics, and subjectivism it constantly attacks contemporary life, art, literature, philosophy, religion, and ethics. In addition, it is characterized by a rejection of reality, claiming that transmutable validity cannot exist since reality is limited by concepts like time and sexuality. It is able to achieve its unique goals in literature and film through numerous literary devices. In literature, there are several devices frequently used by southernism writers to convey some of the main ideas of the movement. Of these devices the use of fragmenting, dark humor, satire, paradox, allusions, mixed point of view and interruption of form are the most frequently used. These devices allow writers to deal with topics like the absurdity of moral, philosophical, political, and authoritative relativism; in addition, these devices provide for a blurring of classifications and boundaries of societal structuring. Ultimately, postmodernists desire to condemn contemporary life, reject reality, and accept relativity and complexity in indefinite answers. The movement of postmodernism came about through a series of meaner. An important factor that contributed to the development was that it followed World War II. Before the war, modernism dominated the current literature of the time. This movement involved rationalism, reason, the scientific approach, optimism for human potential, and a pursuit of absolutely certain knowledge. However, in the wake of both World Wars, the climate was set for postmodernism as confidence in human progress, autonomy, and optimism were destroyed in battle. This permeating and predominantly pessimistic aura of thinking exulted in a series of books, films, artworks, and musical pieces that rejected reality, worldly concepts like time, renounced identity, and questioned the purpose of life. These themes clearly reflect the toll that war had on society; many people desired to marginality the horrors of war in a rejected reality, ostracize human error through a pitiful purpose of existence through fragmented viewpoints. The wars essentially brought about a pessimistic form of modernism that relished in the repudiation of absolute answers; for postmodernists nothing could ever be easily or fully explained. As postmodernist ideals began to develop and conglomerate they were influenced by countless individuals. One extremely influential individual was Linda Hutchison. Hutchison, who wrote several postmodernist works like A Theory of Parody, expressed a great deal of interest in self-reflexive approaches to texts through parodies that both legitimate and subvert that which it parodies (Introductory Guide to Critical Theory). Hutchison also coined the term historiographer metrification, which describes literary texts that assert an interpretation of the past but are also intensely self- flexi; these texts allow a double process of installing and ironing, parody signals how present representations come from past ones and what ideological consequences derive from both continuity and difference (Introductory Guide to Critical Theory). With historiographer metrification, writers can speak constructively about that past in a way that acknowledges the falsity and violence of the past without isolating the present. Many other writers, artists, composers, and directors have had a significant impact on the evolution of postmodernism as well. Key incepts of postmodernism have also developed and evolved through the influence of society and individuals. For example the term kitsch or stratification, which can be defined as the reduction of aesthetic objects or ideas into easily marketable forms, has a more widely accepted definition adopted by famous postmodern philosopher Jean Baudelaire: The kitsch object is commonly understood as one of that great army of trashy objects, made of plaster of Paris [stuck] or some such imitation material: that gallery of cheap Junk”accessories, folksy knickknacks, souvenirs, emphases or fake African masks”which proliferate everywhere, with a preference for holiday resorts and places of leisure (Consumer Society 109-10). Jean Baudelaire also offered a definition for simulacrum, defining it as Simulation is no longer that of a territory, a referential being, or a substance. It is the generation by models of a real without origin or reality: a hyperbole. It is no longer a question of imitation, nor duplication, nor even parody. It is a question of substituting the signs of the real for the real (The Precession of Simulacra 1-2). Postmodernism, like any literary movement, was molded and defined by society and intellectuals involved in its progression. The profound impact postmodernism had on Kurt Evensongs Slaughterhouse 5, through its use of frame-breaking, criticism of worldly concepts like time and war, exploration or reality and truth, simulacrum, and rejection of reality, satire, allowed for the novel to express its ultimate renunciation of an absolute truth in exchange for intricate and indefinable answers. In addition, it was able to express key concepts of post modernism through its use of postmodern iterate devices; many of these concepts included a search for a higher purpose, a renunciation of social structuring, and a rejection of reality. By expressing these concepts, Opponent follows the postmodernist ideals of historiographer metrification, and questioning the absurdity of contemporary life and conventional viewpoints of society. Frame-breaking, the linkage of separate subplots in a novel to unify the intricacies of an entire plot, contributed to the postmodernist impact on the novel by individuality. Frame-breaking takes place in the novel through the employment of Opponent as three characters of differing importance: the narrator, the protagonist, and a supporting character. Through frame-breaking, Opponent demonstrates that even the recount of a war experience does not hold a simple plot; it consists of a web of intermingled plots, ideas, characters, events, and concepts; this adheres to the postmodernist principle of blurred lines of interpretation and absolute truth. In addition, frame-breaking allows for a loss of identity. The loss of identity occurs when Opponent represents an omniscient force narrating the story as he simultaneously lays protagonist Billy Pilgrim, and a seemingly inconsequential supporting character. Opponent as an omniscient force demonstrates the renunciation of religion in postmodernist ideals; Opponent plays god, yet he is as trivial as any other human being. Furthermore, by telling his own story in the perspective of Billy Pilgrim this demonstrates how war results in a loss of identity, or the adoption of an alias. Rather than personalizing the story in a first person perspective, Opponent distances himself from the horrors of his past. Finally, by including himself as a prison mate in Billy Pilgrims story, this demonstrates how in postmodernism, all identities consolidate; the man that represented god and the protagonist is nevertheless a supporting character in the larger plot of the story. By disparaging his ultimate role in the novel, Opponent demonstrates that people are all essentially equal in life and in death- thus a loss of individualism. Through the use of simulacrum, which involves replacing reality with a representation, Opponent is able to criticize worldly concepts like time and war. For instance, by using the simulacrum of Transformable for Earth, e criticizes the necessity of war. Transformable represents a conglomeration of ideals he believes are optimal in achieving peace. However, instead of directly stating those concepts, Opponent employs a narrative and symbolism; this allows for a rejection of reality while criticizing war. Time is also criticized through a simulacrum of time traveling. Through time traveling the distinctness of years is blurred and time loses meaning as it is muddled together. This criticism of time is a unique postmodernist concept that is closely related to the criticism of social structuring. As postmodernist writer, Opponent denounces the traditional concept of time and replaces it with a web of linked yet intricate events. Simulacrum is also used in the plot of Billy Pilgrims Journey; rather than telling the story in the first person perspective, Opponent ostracizes himself thus criticizing the worldly concept of individualism and identity. Contrastingly, he links all frames of the story in the end of the novel to demonstrate that personal identity is futile when people are all equal in life and in death. In addition the concept of death is abandoned as Opponent accepts omelet equality of the human identity. By employing a plot dedicated to the exploration of reality and truth, Opponent demonstrates that the world according to postmodernists is full of blurred lines, undefined edges, and complex networks of relationships. Not only does the novel in its entirety consist of three convoluted interwoven subplots made up of smaller subplots, but it contains episodes of irrationality and science-fiction. This mixture of reality and science fiction represents a renunciation of reality for a combination of philosophy and fantasy; further mistreating that reality does not exist in a state of definable truth, but in limbo higher purpose is an impossibly multifaceted path that nevertheless ends the same as all others do: everything is connected and personal identity is trivial. The Hours, written by Michael Cunningham and directed by Stephen Deadly, has been manifestly impacted by postmodernism through its use of fragmenting, stratification , satire, and renunciation of worldly concepts like death to express postmodern ideals like a loss of identity or interconnection of all things. Through expressing these ideals, Cunningham was able to reject typical social and literary construct and ultimately convey that answers are not simple or absolute. Frame- breaking is employed in the hours through the eventual amassing of all three subplots within the novel to demonstrate the interconnectedness of all human identities. The novel is formatted in three separate spheres to demonstrate how as humans search their lives for purpose, they are unable to see how individualism and identity are inane. The three plots are eventually connected through death- another worldly concept denounced by postmodernists. Through death, the characters become linked to one another and the reader becomes aware of their unity; this demonstrates how death provides enlightenment and is not solely the end of a life. Additionally, frame-breaking allows the criticism of the concept of time. All three subplots take place in completely different eras, yet they have profound impact on one another despite this detriment; this demonstrates that time is merely a concept, rather than an obstacle, and cannot overcome the unity of humanity identity. Stratification and loss of identity are expressed through a variety of literary devices n The Hours to demonstrate that superficiality and identity are ultimately trivial in life. Stratification most chiefly occurs in the novel and film when the concept of love is reduced to a party and flowers; this becomes a criticism of superficiality upon the death of Richard when the party goes to waste. It signifies that the superficial form of love was powerless and inconsequential to Richards death and that death encompasses all. In addition, both Richard and Virgins death represents a loss of identity in that his life and accomplishment were evidently meaningless to them. In he end, they chose the namelessness of death as their path rather than a quest for a higher purpose or discovery of self-identity. Their deaths are a demonstration of the interconnectedness of life in that both writers commit suicide, creating a full circle to the complex web of relationships. Postmodernism, contradicts itself in its essence. Yet its use of paradoxes, satire, criticisms of the conventional, and quest for answers have had a profound impact on the development of literature, art, and society. While postmodernism will be phase in the history of writing, it will not cease to remind rites to question the norm, look past what is conventional, and defy typical form and construction.

Employment Conditions and Impacts of New Technologies Essay

Employment Conditions and Impacts of New Technologies - Essay Example From a wider perspective, a nation’s human capital lays the parameters for success. Creativity is also increasingly becoming a chief strategic asset that boosts the economy, to grow, while still determining thriving amalgamation, into the rapidly altering world economy. Technically, broadcasting is a specific and somehow easy business comprising of sound and view transmissions to the audiences. Development in television in the future relies on the rise of medium throughput, possibility to integrate conventional and internet broadcasters, and generate fresh products that will result in integrating all Medias. Although these updates tend to be expensed intensive, they ensure quick return on investments. Journalism and the media in general have been central in embracing new technology, which has caused influential changes, in the employment conditions. The creative industry concept has its origin in Australia, but much significance was attributed to it by UK policy makers, when t he creative industries unit and  the task were set up. It is an indication of a shift in approach to probable commercial activities from the initial cultural industries. Howkins (2002, 98), has described key roles of Intellectual property classifying them into trademarks, copyright, patents and the ultimate product’s design configuration. ... rise the faction of creative industries, which vary from upstream actions, such as conventional arts, performing, literature and visual arts to the downstream activities which involve design, advertising and other media connected activities (Cunningham, 2005, 285). Therefore, creativity is resulting into being a significant input, employed in the production procedure of products, as it is deployed with a specifically high level of professional particularity. These results to activities referred to as the creative industries such as the IT advancements. These creative industries have contributed to an estimated seven percent world GDP according to the World Bank. Furthermore, according to the UK department for culture media and sports creative industries are already generating over ?110 billion of revenues and employed 1.3 million employees. Numerous other developed nations’ including Canada, Sweden, and Australia have also managed to triumph in applying their foothold, in thes e industries, and they are progressively achieving a gateway, to the novel information economy. Creative industries are immensely contributing to employment creation, and export progression in most leading developing nations; however, currently their potential is broadly unrealized. Fundamentally, they are indeed always correlated with a wobbly structure of job security, with stumpy value added and restricted export earnings. Consequently, there is a pressing requirement to modernize the sector and also strengthen the local capacities such that they augment their contribution to the creation of income thus contributing to reducing poverty. According to UNCTAD continuing research, industries from the creative sector are not only generating more labor and capital or even the conventional

The Pacific Theater of World War II Research Paper

The Pacific Theater of World War II - Research Paper Example At the time, the US was not so active in world politics, but Japanese assumed US inclusion in the future. The surprise attack began on a Sunday morning on 7 December 1941, with layers of Japanese bombers and fighter aircrafts intended to destroy the Pacific Fleet in the harbor as well as US aircrafts on nearby fields. The attack destroyed three main battleships, three destroyers and one mine laying ship according to the initial reports by the Secretary of Navy. Furthermore, 72 aircrafts including bombers and fighters were destroyed along with 128 damaged. Casualties were near 2,400 which mostly included armed personnel.2 The attack achieved its objective of destroying most of the fleet and the damages bought Japanese some time to secure footholds in Pacific without interference from the US. The attack pulled US into the war and it is referred as the opening of the Pacific front. The Pearl Harbor was one of many targets across the Pacific that formed part of a very large offensive lau nched on 8 December 1941 by the Japanese. Thailand was invaded within a day and Hong Kong within three weeks. US forces stationed in Guam and the Wake Island surrendered to the ground offensive. Furthermore, Malaya was taken from the British rule within two months. This initial offensive launched on the 7 and 8 December 1941 was extremely successful campaign. The Japanese controlled the region and dominated the Pacific without major threats. The victories in Malaya as well as Thailand provided launching pads to establish air superiority in surrounding region. British battleship Prince of Wales was sunk by Japanese bombers launched from bases in Malaya. Almost a month after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese started... The Pearl Harbor was one of many targets across the Pacific that formed part of a very large offensive launched on 8 December 1941 by the Japanese. Thailand was invaded within a day and Hong Kong within three weeks. US forces stationed in Guam and the Wake Island surrendered to the ground offensive. Furthermore, Malaya was taken from the British rule within two months. This initial offensive launched on the 7 and 8 December 1941 was an extremely successful campaign. The Japanese controlled the region and dominated the Pacific without major threats. The victories in Malaya, as well as Thailand, provided launching pads to establish air superiority in surrounding region. British battleship Prince of Wales was sunk by Japanese bombers launched from bases in Malaya.Almost a month after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese started to consolidate their position by securing strategic assets in the region. Tarakan and Manado fell within days of invasion; Tarakan was rich in oil fields and a s trategic airfield, whereas Manado provided control of the Minahasa peninsula that could be used to approach Australia. In the same time period, invasion of Burma started on 15 January 1942 along with invasions for Singapore and New Guinea. British Commonwealth forces retreated from Burma and Singapore fell to Japanese in almost a month. By the first six months, Japanese controlled the Pacific from Burma in the west, Singapore in the south, New Guinea in the east and numerous islands in between.

Abortion is Just As Immoral As Murder Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Abortion is Just As Immoral As Murder - Essay Example I believe that abortion is one of the many ways that is slowly destroying and wearing away the principles and integrity of civilization. Many women make so many excuses to abort the child that is growing in their womb. They believe there are numerous ethical reasons to abort their children such as fear of having or raising a child, rape, or not having enough money to raise up a child in a good and stable world. Whatever the situation might be, the only conclusion of the matter is: it was the woman’s choice to engage herself in sexual relations and therefore, must face the consequences and effects that she knows will eventually happen. There is never an adequate reason to consider aborting an unborn human being as ethical. First of all, in whatever case, the unborn child does not have any fault to the suffering or pain that his or her conception might have caused so taking away their life is inequitable. It is solely of the parents’ doing and the parents, therefore, are the only ones accountable and responsible for the actions they have taken. In addition, unborn babies are never, in any way, responsible for the situation that their parents might be facing, so what possible ethical and moral reason can you provide for their unjust death? They, just like any other human being on this planet, have the absolute right and privilege to be able to live out their lives and grow into a normal individual. Abortion is never necessary; because destroying something that one has not created or given the authority to do so is never considered okay. There are always many alternative solutions and better options to resolve unwanted pregnancy apart from abortion. Second, in cases of rape and maybe in all cases, abortion no matter how one looks at it does not come any close to being the best and most reasonable option as it causes not only the death of life but also the mother’s emotional death.  

Case Study of Supply Chain Management in Larsen & Toubro Ltd Essay

Case Study of Supply Chain Management in Larsen & Toubro Ltd - Essay Example In fact, some of the most amazing business successes in the past 20 years are direct results of finding more efficient supply chains in delivering products to customers. Supply chain management emerged only a decade ago together with the emergence of the word "supply chain" in the business scene. This development started from the business world's recognition of the importance of integrating and managing the processes within a business entity. The new revolution in supply chain management significant changed business processes and introduced radical revolutions which promote the operation efficiency of companies and gain competitive advantage in their respective industries. Perhaps, the most successful in revamping its supply chain is Dell Computers. In fact, supply chain management is often referred to as the Dell's model (Cavinato, 2002). Currently, supply chains generally perceived as the "proper blending of physical resources with financial, informational, and relational resources-all within the strategic context of competing in the marketplace (Cavinato, 2002)." Experts argued that there is no "one size fits all" supply chain and that different businesses need to employ unique business models to run their operations. The shift in business model necessitates major changes in a comp... The first section will give a brief profile and background of the company. Next, it will look at the costs of shifting to a more streamlined value chain. Afterwards, it will explore the importance of technology in the new supply chain as well as its long-term collaboration with its supplier's to the system's efficiency. An analysis of the material procurement system of the ECC will be presented. The paper will end with its findings and recommendations. The Company: Larsen and Toubro Limited (L&T) L&T traces its origins by the partnership formed by two Danish engineers Henning Holk Larsen and Soren Kristian Toubro in 1938. The firm is engaged in the manufacture of a wide array of engineering products, earthmoving equipment, chemical and industrial machinery, switchgear valves, welding alloys and cement manufacturing machinery. The ECC division of L&T handled the turnkey industrial and infrastructure projects in civil, mechanical, electrical and instrumentation engineering as well as turnkey construction services. The division is headquartered in Chennai and has operations dispersed in other countries like UAE, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and South Africa. The company's thrust of utilizing a business model to integrate the division's operations into a more cohesive one is the driving force in revamping the company's supply chain. From its manual operations, the company opted to employ a web-based SCM solution which took advantage of the recent trend in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. Thus, the company was able to streamline its supply chain and boost the efficiency of its operation. Challenges in Integrating

Social anxiety Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Social anxiety - Research Paper Example People experiencing from social phobia are not afraid of fear, rather they are afraid of what people think about them and how people perceive them. This fear is mostly associated with the negative perception or the belief that people perceive negatively about the person being evaluated. Due to this fear, individuals believe that they are going to be negatively assessed by others, will not be acceptable by others, will be bullied and people might disapprove them. Due to these perceptions, an individual may face the problem of social anxiety. Individuals living in US aging between 18 and 54 are most commonly affected by this disorder, around 3.7% of the total population which accounts for 5.3 million Americans are said to be experiencing this disease (Kahn, 2001, p.51). Twice the number of women are said to be effected by this disorder as compared to men but higher number of men seek assistance to solve this issue (Kahn, 2001, p.51). Mostly an individual is affected by this disease dur ing childhood; individuals who cross the age of 25 have less chances of developing this disorder. Social anxiety is one of the top most common forms of disorders experienced by US. Body During the 1980s, social anxiety was realized as a mental disposition by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder; this realization took place much later than other forms of mental issues (Kearney, 2005, p.11). Heavy amount of research and study has not focused on this disease but quite a lot of physicians and researchers are working towards this social and mental problem. Researchers have been able to identify two forms of social phobia, though it is unclear whether both these problems are similar or distinct. The first kind of social phobia is one in which people are afraid of conducting one of the several forms of social actions such as speaking in front of the public and working or eating while around people. The second division of social phobia is recognized as generalized social phobia, people experiencing this form of social phobia are afraid of conducting all sorts of social activities (Kearney, 2005, p.12). Media has paid attention to social phobia and has stated that pharmaceutical companies are trying to sell medication that is used to solve the issue of shyness and they believe that shyness is not a medical condition (Gambrill, 2012, p.67). The issue of pharmaceutical companies operating in an unethical way to make profits should not be mixed with the issue of social phobia as everyday several individuals throughout the world along with US experience this metal disorder and are not able to complete their social obligations. An individual should not be labeled as someone who is experiencing any disease if they are going through emotional changes that are important for their life. But proper importance needs to be assigned to someone who is actually experiencing certain mental issues. Social phobia or social anxiety itself is a label given to those who are actually suffering from these issues and these labeling aids them in obtaining help from physicians and gain support from others who are experiencing the same challenge. Experiencing social anxiety is not a huge issue, thus others need to accept such people and provide support to them and people suffering from this disorder want to alter the way they are living their lives. It is a myth that socially anxious people do not prefer to be social or are against

PolicyMaking in the EU Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

PolicyMaking in the EU - Essay Example Were it admitted to the EU, Turkey would be the most populated country and the first to be predominantly Muslim. Though its accession would have little effect on the European Commission, it would dramatically affect the European Council. Despite these many positives, some negatives make many weary about Turkey's inclusion. Agriculture is a major concern of EU policy. As Turkey's inclusion would affect voting power, Turkish concerns could change the common agriculture policy. Also, the European Union allows free movements of citizens among member nations. "A free flow of [Turkish] immigrants could destabilize labor markets around Europe. Though many of the members today feel that the presence of the Turkey would definitely create an impact on the growth of the European Economy, an equal number of the members feel that Turkey cannot be included into the EU as it is not geographically apt to be called 'European'. Its accession talks have since been delayed by a number of domestic and external problems. Several European countries such as Austria have shown their reluctance to allow Turkey into Europe. The issue of Cyprus continues to be a major obstacle to negotiations. European officials have commented on the slowdown in Turkish reforms which, combined with the Cyprus problem, has led the EU's enlargement commissioner to warn of a crash in the negotations with Turkey. Despite these setbacks, Turkey had closed its first phase in negotiations in June 2006. Based on what it views as lukewarm support for its accession to the EU and alleged double standards in its negotiations. France and Austria have indicated they will hold referundums on Turkey's membership), the Turkish public has become increasingly euroskeptic in recent times. Arguments favoring Turkey's membership in the European Union Economy An important in the favor of Turkey's inclusion is the rapid economical growth it has been achieving in the last 4 years. Although the current GNP per capita is still lower than all of the other new EU-countries, the current economic growth rate suggests that in a few years, Turkey will have overtaken Poland and Romania. In addition, Turkey has a young population. That, combined with the size of the country, and its growth rates, constitutes a major dynamism and a good opportunity for the EU. (Barry.M.Rubin, 2003) Relationship with the NATO Atlancist countries outside Turkey have always felt the inclusion of Turkey into the European Union would help counteract France's completely oblivious stand against the US. In countries like France, Netherlands and Germany, this is viewed as a point working against the country. Turkey is a strong regional military power which could give the EU more military capabilities. The Turkish Armed Forces are the second largest standing armed force in NATO after the United States Armed Forces, and they are the strongest in the Muslim world. Many countries in the west believe that the inclusion of the country in the EU would cement its alignment with the west. Many people in Turkey also believe that the Turkish inclusion could actually result in less military influence in the country and more stable Government. It could also improve in sustaining the economy. The Energy resources Turkey has now become the Energy hub of the continent. Direct piping between Russia and Iran carries natural gas to Turkey, which is planned to be distributed to the

Discuss the ways in which Toyotaro, the protagonist of Maihime (The Assignment

Discuss the ways in which Toyotaro, the protagonist of Maihime (The Dancing Girl), thinks of his own identity - Assignment Example His story explicates the fact that he had done a mistake by following and doing what other people told him to do. For instance, he asserts that during his childhood, he was a sort of dictionary to his mother and law in the service of his boss (Ogai). This implies that he was not following his heart and doing whatever he wanted or whatever pleased him, but whatever pleased those around him. Toyotaro identity changes when he falls in love Elise, a German dancing girl. He falls in love with this girl despite their varied culture and race. This love transforms Toyotaro to the extent that he loses his job (Ogai). While in the ship, he feels guilty for leaving her behind and that’s when he fully thinks of his identity. For once, a sense of being himself and deciding for himself engulfs him. He does not fear anymore what would become of him when he makes his own decisions. In conclusion, Toyotaro’s discovery that he was able to decide for himself on how he was going to live his life was the climax of the realization of his identity. This was a problem affecting several young Japanese during Mori Ogai’s generation. In this case, he emerged as an enlightened young intellectual capable of choosing his fate and not depending on adults to choose their destiny for

McDonalds Video Advertisement Essay Example for Free

McDonalds Video Advertisement Essay This paper analyzes the rhetorical features of one particular video advertisement (2010 see Reference list for details) that was issued on the internet by the multinational burger company McDonalds. It now circulates on the internet with and without the English subtitles. The subtitled text of the advert is a very brief nine lines long, followed by the single tag line â€Å"Come as You are† and the full text is given below at Appendix 1. Hill and Helmers (2008, pp. 51-53) describe how a video uses a particular type of persuasion called â€Å"visual argument† which is rhetorical rather than logical or dialectical. The medium is very compressed and this does not allow full exposition of claim, argument, rebuttal, etc but on the other hand the visual aspect lends a sense of immediacy which written text does not have. They warn, however, that the apparent advantage of seeing rather than reading is partly illusory, since the images presented are highly structured and filtered so as to present a particular viewpoint. In their terminology the McDonalds advert would fall into the category of â€Å"didactic narrative†. The target market for McDonalds products is generally young families and teenagers. The opening shots set a scene which is familiar to this group: a busy and noisy McDonalds restaurant with many smiling faces. A father waits to be served while a son sits at a formica table and talks on his mobile telephone while looking at a photograph. Across the world, in France as well as in other countries, this is a regular occurrence and will resonate with both older and younger viewers who see themselves in the father or son role. The dresscode in the video is casual and â€Å"cool† as evidenced by the beanie hat worn by a customer, and the hoodie worn by the boy who talks. This is typical of styles popular with young urban males. At first it looks like a mainstream father and son, where the son talks to someone romantically on his cellphone. The person on the other end of the telephone is neither seen nor heard and one just assumes out of habit that this person is female. Lines 1-4 are spoken by the boy. The father arrives and lines 5-9 are spoken by the father. As the father quizzes the boy and makes a comparison with himself, the facial expression of the boy makes it clear that the father is not aware of a crucial difference between them: the boy is gay. The Tag line which is presented on a plain screen at the end just before the McDonalds logo â€Å"Come as you are† tacitly acknowledges that people are different, and extends a welcome to all kinds of people. It does not matter whether they are older or younger, gay or straight, they should still come to McDonalds and eat together. The claim, or main issue which the video presents is that diversity is a good thing, and people should be welcome regardless of their sexual orientation. There is no explicit verbal argument to back this up, but the story presents the gay son in a favourable light. This is done by camera angles that focus on his face, and the choice of an attractive young French male actor dressed in pretty average teenage clothes. This is by no means extreme gay activism with stereotypical gay wardrobe, mannerisms and speaking style but a subtle depiction of a situation that a pretty average young gay man is likely to encounter. It all looks and is intended to look â€Å"normal†. The video is youth-focused, because it lets the audience see things from the boy’s perspective, while making it obvious that the father does not appreciate the insider information which audience and boy share. The father represents the traditional French male role model of an experienced older man who is successful with women. The son represents a more up to date role model of a gay French man. An interesting aspect of the video is that there are a number of appeals going on at the same time in different directions. On the one hand there is a main message conveyed by pathos, which shows the young boy’s romantic feelings towards his boyfriend, and his wry acceptance of his father’s old fashioned and rather macho attitudes. On the other hand there is some authority and believability in the role of the father who pays for the meal and takes a positive and fatherly interest in his son. The son is inward looking and reflective, using the personal pronoun â€Å"I† to reveal his feelings, while the father uses the pronoun â€Å"you† more often and directs his feelings outwards. The father cites the evidence of his own experience to offer an example for the boy to follow in his footsteps. McDonalds will be well aware that parents and teenage children, and the sometimes complex and difficult relationship between them is absolutely the territory in which they operate their business. They provide a framework, something like a neutral territory, in which this generational conflict can be worked through, via the activity of buying and eating fast food. In making the gay-friendly message implicit, rather than explicit, McDonalds avoids the possible outcome of presenting a crass or sensationalist message. The way gaps in the narrative are left for the viewer to supply is also very clever, because it flatters the audience and forces them to get involved in constructing the meaning of the advertisement. Ambiguity used in this way is a very powerful rhetorical technique. There is still, of course, the possibility that some viewers will react negatively to the overturning of the traditionally dominant heterosexual point of view. Some viewers will resist the gay-friendly message that is being constructed but this, too, is part of the writer’s intention. Advertisers often court controversy as a means to extend the impact of their message and this is a prime example of that. If some viewers react with an indignant and anti-gay blog post or a you tube video or text response then this in turn provokes pro-gay and pro-McDonald posts from the viewers. The message is then guaranteed durability and a wider circulation. In purely technical production terms this video is a model of economy and precision. There are only two speakers, and each takes only one conversation turn. The product is never mentioned, and the instant recognizability factor with this brand makes this irrelevant in any case. Just in case there is any doubt in the viewer’s mind, however, the logo is added at the end. The colors are muted, and the mood is a gentle family intimacy with some tension caused by the unspoken facts which change the surface meaning of the discourse. Deep meaning is conveyed in shots of the changing expressions on the son’s face, and these meanings are obliquely referred to in the tag line â€Å"Come as you are†. This phrase is used in standard English to mean something like â€Å"don’t dress up specially – there is no need to be formal† and the McDonalds ad suggests an extension of this to mean something like â€Å"you don’t need to pretend you are straight, just be yourself† for a young and gay friendly audience, or â€Å"you don’t need to worry if your son is gay, just come and eat with him as normal† for an older audience who may be less open towards a gay message. The advert makes a plea for tolerance, not for any particular orientation. All of the components of the advert, even including the brief snippet of song saying â€Å"I’m going on my way† at the end, support these same messages and the images work, because they rest on a long McDonalds formula of adverts showing intimate conversations in busy restaurant scenes, but incorporate this new â€Å"diversity† based angle in a positive, friendly and contemporary way. Appendix 1. 1. Boy: Hello? 2. Boy: I was thinking about you too. 3. Boy: I miss you too. 4. Boy: My dad’s coming, I have to hang up. 5. Father: Is this your class picture? 6. Father: You look just like me at your age/ 7. Father: Let me tell you I was quite the ladies’ man! 8. Father: Too bad your class is all boys†¦ 9. Father: You could get all the girls. (Song in the background) 10. Tag line replaces the pictures : Come as you are. Hill, Charles A. and Helmers, Marguerite (2008) Defining Visual Rhetorics. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Lunsford, Andrea A. , Ruskiewicz, John J. , Walters, Keith. (2009) Everything’s an Argument. Boston: Bedford books. McDonald’s video advert â€Å"Come as You Are†, (2010) in French with English subtitles. Available online at: http://www. youtube. com/watch? v=xk8xyONKK_4feature=related

Mangment this is a paper for studying mangment in an academic setting for MBA Essay Example for Free

Mangment this is a paper for studying mangment in an academic setting for MBA Essay The factors that affect the productivity of PATs include the size of incentive bonuses paid to workers, base pay increases, perfect attendance bonuses, the size of the fringe benefits package, how favorably the overall size of a company’s compensation package compares with the industry-average compensation package, expenditures for PAT training and productivity improvement, and changes in the number of models. Perfect attendance bonuses, how much overtime is offered to PATs so as to boost their take-home pay, how many PATs are laid off, the percentage of newly-hired PATs, the percentage use of temporary PATs, and PAT compensation levels. P/Q ratings, the warranty claim rates, the amount of overtime, the percentage of cameras outsourced, and how many cameras are assembled each quarter. the complexity of the company’s camera designs; a company’s cumulative spending for new product RD, engineering and design; the number of models; camera body ergonomics/durability; and the number of camera components. PAT training and experience, the number of PATs laid off, base pay increases, warranty claim rates, and P/Q ratings †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. The interest rate a company pays on loans outstanding depends on its credit rating. How much it has borrowed against its credit line and its debt-assets ratio. How many consecutive years the company has been profitable, its current ratio, and its ROE Its net profit margins, ROE, and amount of cash on hand to make interest payments Its current ratio, global market share, debt-assets ratio, net profits, and balance sheet strength †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. The company maintains a production facility in the United States. Japan. China. Germany. Taiwan. The decisions that company co-managers make each year are organized around new product RD, components production, work force management, advertising and marketing, and finance. supply chain management, assembly, distribution, sales force management, advertising and marketing, customer service, and finance. components production and assembly, distribution and retailer relations, advertising and promotion, customer service, and accounting. supply chain management, components production, assembly, distribution and dealer relations, sales and marketing, and cash flow management. marketing and promotions, product design, assembly/shipping, compensation and labor force, and finance.

The Current Heritage Conservation Policy In Hong Kong

The Current Heritage Conservation Policy In Hong Kong We can see that some valuable built heritage were destroyed in these few years; however, the public did not acknowledge the impacts of demolishing our precious built heritage and the importance of conserving them. Not only can cultural heritage enhance the uniqueness of the city, it also can contribute to the civic pride and a sense of belongings. Therefore, this study will discuss the effectiveness of the heritage conservation policies in Hong Kong. The current systems are the Three-tier system and Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance. Data were gathered by secondary research, such as governmental reports, academic theses and private sector reports. After reviewing the two policies, we found that the strategies lack statutory power to protect built heritage and the preservation of privately owned historical buildings done by the Hong Kong government is ineffective. To further establishing a comprehensive heritage conservation system, the heritage preservation experiences of Macau can provide some insights and directions to the local government. By referencing its experience, we recommend that Hong Kong can improve the current systems and the scope of protection can be extended to private historical monuments. Background In the past hundreds of year, Hong Kong has grown from a small rural community into one of the most influencing and renowned cosmopolis. By undergoing a long period of history, plenty of valuable heritage legacies can be found in every district in Hong Kong. In fact, cultural heritage can sustain peoples values and allow them to share a collective memory. Therefore, it should be considered as essential and invaluable public assets that are worthy to preserve. In 1976, in a light of protecting historical monuments and promoting the heritage value, Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance was established by the British colonial government. Some related departments have subsequently set up to protect historical buildings, such as Home Affairs Bureau (HAB), Urban Renewal Authority (URA) and so on. Unfortunately, due to prompt economic development and large population growth, there are great demands for intense urban development and some significant historical landmarks have been demolished, such as the Queens Pier and the Star Ferry Pier. As a result, despite historical significance, old buildings occupying potential sites of commercial development are regarded as barriers and cannot be protected properly by legal frameworks. Introduction It is obvious to see that the heritage conservation in Hong Kong is yielded to the economic growth and urban development. The Hong Kong government has neglected the importance of conserving heritage and some monuments cannot be maintained for the future generation under the existing heritage preservation policies. Therefore, I find it essential to look into the efficacy of the current policies. This paper aims at examining the effectiveness of present heritage conservation policies and reviewing the experience of Macau. Procedure Data for the policy paper gathered are mainly secondary data which was obtained by extensive reading of relevant journal articles, theses and reports. Moreover, I accessed some governmental departments websites in order to obtain more official and factual information which are persuasive enough to support my view points. Existing measures and effectiveness Three-Tier Grading System of Historical Buildings The Grading System, which is adapted to record heritage buildings with significant historical and architectural value, is an administrative measure without any statutory power. Therefore, the record is only kept for internal reference for the government. The Grading System comprises three grades, including Grade I, Grade II and Grade III  [1]  . Since the System lacks statuary status and is only regarded as a reference list to keep record of the historical buildings, the graded buildings cannot be protected legally. Under the System, the information provided by the Grading System will just be sent to other relevant government departments such as the Planning Department which can determine whether protect the graded historical buildings or not. We can, therefore, understand that the System is not powerful enough to inhibit the monumental architectures from destroying. For example, the Murray House, which was built in 1846 with classical British style, was classified as Grade I building owing to its valuable Victorian architectural design. This historical landmark was originally located in Central; however, it was dismantled in 1982 and relocated to the Stanley in attempt to make way for the Bank of China Tower. Regrettably, due to the lost of parts of the building, this relocation failed to reflect the remarkable historical development and architectural significance of 18th Century. As a result, the AAB decided to remove the grade of the Murray House after visiting the place. We can clearly see that even the graded buildings which declared as monuments cannot be protected properly under the current system. Thus, it is critical for the government to offer legal authority to the Grade System so that the graded buildings will not be demolished easily. Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance The Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance (AMO) is enacted in 1976 in an attempt to protect Hong Kong historical buildings. The AMO, which is implemented by the Antiquities and Monuments Office (AM Office), provides secretarial services for Antiquities Advisory Board (AAB). In the section three of the Ordinance, after consultation with the AAB and with the approval of the Chief Executive, the Office may declare buildings, places and sites, where the Office considers to be public interest by reason of its historical and archaeological value  [2]  . Therefore, under the Ordinance, the Office is responsible for declaring antiquities and historical buildings into monuments or proposed monuments, which can prohibit them from demolishing. However, the AMO does not possess effective and comprehensive statutory power to protect privately owned historical buildings. In fact, private owners have their own right to reject the monumental buildings declaring as monuments on the grounds that they consider the land market and the profit of selling the buildings more than the value of historical value. Meanwhile, the developmental potential of the buildings and the profit may decrease after declaration, which causes them be reluctant to declare the buildings into monuments. Thus, few privately owned heritage assets can be protected and kept as declared monuments. For instance, Tiger Balm Gardens, which was constructed in 1935 by a wealthy Chinese philanthropist Aw Boon-haw, built in Chinese Renaissance Style with a unique mixture of Chinese and Western styles of artistic decoration. The owners of the Gardens submitted a proposal required the demolition of the whole heritage buildings in 1999; however when the AM Office acknowledged and approached the matter, the real estate developers had bought the land and dismantled part of the buildings for the redevelopment. Therefore, it is important for the AMO to promote private sector participation in heritage conservation and a comprehensive mechanism of compensation can be established. The Macaus experience In order to enhance the effectiveness of the heritage conservation policies in Hong Kong, related experiences of other countries will be studied. In fact, comparing the conservation policies between different places is definitely an effective way to achieve better approach to the preservation of the built cultural heritage in developed countries. In this part, the heritage conservation policies of Macau will be explored; therefore, I hope that their experiences can give Hong Kong an insight into saving heritage. The reason why I take the examples of Macau is that there are lots of similarities between Hong Kong and Macau, including the high population density and rapid economic growth. More importantly, they both colonized by Britain and Portugal, which may result in both countries possessing great historical and cultural value. Thus, it will be easier for Hong Kong to seek advice from Macau. In Macau, Cultural Institute (CI) and Cultural Heritage Department (CHD) are the core statutory departments of heritage conservation. The legal classification system of built heritage, which is under control by these two departments, is consisted of four categories, namely The Monument, The Complex, The Sites and Building of Architectural Interest. Under the classification system, authorization from the government is needed before any repairs, damages and demolition; therefore, most historical buildings in Macau are conserved well. To date, 128 built heritages are preserved and classified as cultural properties in Macau, including 52 are The Monument, 11 are The Complexes, 22 are The Sites and 44 are Building of Architectural Interest. Comparing with Hong Kong, the classification system in Macau is granted with legal force and therefore the classified historical buildings will not be demolished by any parties of society. Apart from the classification system, the Macau Government has set up a Cultural Fund in a bid to cover the cost of repairing and restoring the historical buildings. As a result, owners of privately owned heritage are willing to give consent to declare the historical buildings as monuments. Moreover, the Macau government has tried their best to invest on revitalizing the historical buildings. Ruins of St. Paulo, Sao Domingos Square and Leal Senado Square, for example, are conserved and reused for social and commercial purposes. By combining the ideas of conservation and economic development, the cultural heritage can be reversed properly and have become famous tourist attractions. We can clearly see the determination and sincerity of the Macau government in conserving the heritage. Conclusion The findings clearly indicate that the heritage conservation policies are not extensive and effective enough to protect local historical monuments. Some of the policies cannot protect privately owned heritage while other cannot access their legal force to protect monuments. It can be concluded that to encourage public involvement in heritage preservation, Hong Kong have to consult other countries opinions so that we can develop a clearer heritage conservation system to protect valuable monumental buildings. Recommendation Improvement of the grading system Since some historical buildings may not be preserved appropriately under the existing grading system, I propose that the criteria of grading buildings be more objective and transparent. Therefore, it is important for the government and relevant departments to reform the grading system. Incentives to private owners of historical buildings. Given a lack of incentives and no clear regulations regarding the compensation for conserving privately owned historical buildings, I recommend that a reasonable and comprehensive compensation be provided to encourage private owners repair and maintain the buildings. Besides, tax relief which is a financial tool to help private owners to restore and maintain the privately owned historical buildings can be offered as conservation incentives. As a result, a wide range of Hong Kongs monuments can be protected for future generation. Establishment of funding In view of inadequate support and determination of local government in heritage conservation, it is highly recommend that the government provide funding to support preserving built heritage. It may be useful and effective for the government to cooperate with private organizations and non-profit organizations. Both donations and contributions can be collected as a source of funding so that the maintenance cost of historical buildings can be covered and reduced.

Essay --

There are many similarities and differences in the readings of Plato’s The Allegory Cave, Descartes’ Mediation and The Matrix. These stories share an alternative perception to reality and the implications that it is caused on the individuals who are affected by this alteration. These stories share skepticism of validity in the perception of reality. Firstly, these three stories, The Matrix, The Allegory Cave, and Mediation, share common similarities that questions the authenticity of the world around them and doubts their perceived perception of reality and its validity. Descartes discussed the possibility that everyone is dreaming and that our actions involving eye opening, moving our head, hands and our body are illusions.(Descartes, 1641) Plato also regarded the perception of men who were restrained to look forward only could only perceive objects and passersby as their shadows. Plato stated that these prisoners’ perception of reality would be no more than just shadows of objects.(Plate, 514-518) The Matrix relates with Descartes theory based on the fact that in The Matrix, there is a computer system that controls everyone’s mind in a computer-generated virtual dream world. These stories ask deeper questions on the basis of man’s perception of reality and the possibility that our minds and perceptions ar e controlled by something else and that something else determines our reality. (Wachowski, 1999) Secondly, although these three stories share common similarities about the validity of reality, they have distinguishing differences that separate them from one another. The Matrix depicts a stepford-like society that is completely controlled by the computer system. However, there is a group of individuals who have overcome their p... ...me where those who are living in an illusion will have to come to terms with reality eventually. The time in which that happens, those who are living in the illusion will have a much harder time trying to comprehend the true reality which would cause more troubles and problems than living with the harshness in the first place. Finally, The Matrix, The Allegory Cave, and Mediation all have significant importance is revelation of the perceived perception of reality and the validity of that reality. Each story has its own unique twist to whom or what has the control over that perception. The stories give the reader the opportunity to dive deeper into this meaning of reality. The skepticism that is used is relatable in each individual’s lives. Individuals have to determine what they perceive to be real and true and what they believe to be opinions that are truly false. Essay -- There are many similarities and differences in the readings of Plato’s The Allegory Cave, Descartes’ Mediation and The Matrix. These stories share an alternative perception to reality and the implications that it is caused on the individuals who are affected by this alteration. These stories share skepticism of validity in the perception of reality. Firstly, these three stories, The Matrix, The Allegory Cave, and Mediation, share common similarities that questions the authenticity of the world around them and doubts their perceived perception of reality and its validity. Descartes discussed the possibility that everyone is dreaming and that our actions involving eye opening, moving our head, hands and our body are illusions.(Descartes, 1641) Plato also regarded the perception of men who were restrained to look forward only could only perceive objects and passersby as their shadows. Plato stated that these prisoners’ perception of reality would be no more than just shadows of objects.(Plate, 514-518) The Matrix relates with Descartes theory based on the fact that in The Matrix, there is a computer system that controls everyone’s mind in a computer-generated virtual dream world. These stories ask deeper questions on the basis of man’s perception of reality and the possibility that our minds and perceptions ar e controlled by something else and that something else determines our reality. (Wachowski, 1999) Secondly, although these three stories share common similarities about the validity of reality, they have distinguishing differences that separate them from one another. The Matrix depicts a stepford-like society that is completely controlled by the computer system. However, there is a group of individuals who have overcome their p... ...me where those who are living in an illusion will have to come to terms with reality eventually. The time in which that happens, those who are living in the illusion will have a much harder time trying to comprehend the true reality which would cause more troubles and problems than living with the harshness in the first place. Finally, The Matrix, The Allegory Cave, and Mediation all have significant importance is revelation of the perceived perception of reality and the validity of that reality. Each story has its own unique twist to whom or what has the control over that perception. The stories give the reader the opportunity to dive deeper into this meaning of reality. The skepticism that is used is relatable in each individual’s lives. Individuals have to determine what they perceive to be real and true and what they believe to be opinions that are truly false.

The Diviners: How Does Morags Past Influence Piques Life :: essays research papers

The Diviners: How does Morag's Past Influence Pique's Life Pique is the inheritor of French-Indian and Scottish-Canadian roots. She is raised her mother in Canada and England. However, her growth is affected by Morag's life style and Morag's past life. There are three events in Morag's past that affects Pique's life. Morag moves away from Christie when she goes to college and she rarely comes back to Manawake, "Going to Winnipeg this fall. To college. And I'm never coming back." She does not seem care for her stepparents. In certain respects the parent-child relationship between Morag and Pique resembles the one between Christie, the Scavenger, "You've never had somebody tell you mother was crazy between she lived out her alone and wrote dirty books and had kooky people coming out from the city to visit?" (P.446) And both, in different ways, attempt to deny their parents. At one point, Pique, having run away from home, ends up in a mental hospital in Toronto after "a bad trip", "Can't you see I despair you? Can't you see I want you to go away? You aren't my mother. I haven't got a mother." (P.111) Furthermore, Morag does not get married with Jules. When her husband is Brooke Skelton, she has a sexual relationship with Jules and gets pregnant. Later, Pique is aware that Jules is her father. Pique has an idea about why she is different from the others because a typical family should have a mother and a father, but she comes from a single parent family. When Pique first meets her father she is at about five years old. Jules sings a song to Pique which she finds fascinating and meaningful to her. Pique, at 18, is more mature than her mother at the same age. She loves her father very much and wants to live with him, however, Morag does not approve that Pique should stay with Jules, "Why did you have me?" "For your own satisfaction, yes. You never thought of him or of me." We are aware that Pique needs care and love from both of her parents because Morag cannot fulfill Pique's desire. She runs away in search of what she thinks she is missing all along, which she, herself is not sure what it is. Later on, she dates Dan McRaith, who is a husband of Bridie. They have a abnormal friendship between them. As we know Dan Scranton and Gord are boyfriends of Pique. It is coincidental with Morag's boyfriend first name is also Dan. These two individuals occurs in Morag and Pique's life as their names are the same.

A Leader: Love and Hatred, Fear and Love Essay example -- Literary Ana

Many philosophers have discussed, written, and influenced the implementation of their ideas of the perfect qualities of a leader, and the techniques that one must use to improve and perfect their leadership abilities. Majority of these philosophers conclude that a leader must demonstrate favourable traits, which will in turn generate the public in which he is ruling over to love him. This will result in a successful leadership. These philosophies are also devised as if the real world was a perfect world. However, Niccolo Machiavelli wrote a book, named, The Prince, which introduced the realistic idea that the world is not perfect and people do bad things. Because of this, leader must act differently to take charge of the naturally bad behaviour of the human race (The Prince 1). In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, there are numerous leaders who apply these ideas, and many who don’t. Although The Prince discusses many dark and relentless ideas of the perfect leader, his philo sophy is proven true by the characters from Shakespeare’s playwright, Julius Caesar, and the cause and effect of their actions. Brutus is a perfect example of a leader who did not follow Machiavelli’s advice, and did not succeed as a leader. For instance, Brutus’s main concern was pleasing the public and doing what was best for Rome. He did this by killing Julius Caesar (3.2.23-28). â€Å"If you want to acquire a reputation for generosity, therefore, you have to be ostentatiously lavish; and a prince acting in that fashion will soon squander all his resources, only to be forced in the end if he wants to maintain his reputation†¦to impose extortionate taxes.† (The Prince 2). Machiavelli stated that to be generous will have damaging effects on the leader. The damaging co... ...owed Machiavelli’s idea and as a result, killed anyone that was a threat to him (the conspirators). Machiavelli said that this was a good technique for a leader to use, because if a man does this, then everything that could possibly put him out of leadership is out of his way, leaving his leadership roll open to only him (Fears). Killing the conspirators was a great advantage to Antony because it gave him the opportunity to become a leader in the second triumvirate. Weather the characters of Shakespeare’s playwright, Julius Caesar followed or did not follow Machiavellian traits, each of the previous examples prove Machiavelli’s philosophy in The Prince true. Even though many philosophers conclude that a leader should have all positive traits such as kindness and generosity, a leader can be cruel and feared and be a better leader than one that is kind and loved.

Fashion from Luxury? the Impact of the Masstige

From Fashion to Luxury? The impact of the â€Å"masstige† Integrated Communication assignement Msc of LFM 2011-2012 Justine Leupe Agenda 1. INTRODUCTION OF THE TOPIC – Definition of â€Å"Masstige† phenomenon – Reasons of the â€Å"Masstige† apparition – Examples 2. ADVANTAGES – Mass market brands advantages – Luxury brands & designers’ advantages – Consumers’ advantages 3. RISKS – Loss of Brand identity – Luxury Democratization risks Introduction of the topic  « MASSTIGE  » definition ? n. A class of products that are affordable for the general consumer but positioned as luxury goods. â€Å"Masstige is a marketing term meaning downward brand extension. The word is a portmanteau of the words mass and prestige and has been described as prestige for the masses. † ? Masstige products are defined as â€Å"premium but attainable,† and there are two key tenets: ? ? They are consider ed luxury or premium products. They have price points that fill the gap between mid-market and super premium. ? Masstige VS Co-branding ? Co-branding is a partnership between two brands, while â€Å"masstige† only works between a luxury brand and a consumer brand. Sources: http://en. wikipedia. rg/wiki/Masstige Reasons of the  « Masstige  » apparition ? It follows the trend of Luxury democratization. ? The European textile market is one of the first victims of globalization resulting in textiles and cheap labor from China. ? Hypercompetitive market: Europe (135 billion euros), USA (100 billion euros), China and Japan (35 billion euros). ? It is in this uncertain environment that brands have realized the need to adapt and be creative to stay competitive. ? From the perspective of consumer brands that distribute the final products, â€Å"masstige† is to boost sales during quiet periods. For the luxury brand, the association operations are great opportunities to reach a wider target by keeping its image and credibility. â€Å"Masstige† Key factors of success ? Collaboration between luxury brands or fashion designer ? Adoption of specific codes of consumer’ brands communication and adapting them according to the market ? Luxury brands generally use one worldwide speech. ? Ephemeral nature of business operations which rely on the announcement effect ? Appeal of luxury brand muses ? Use of the Karl Lagerfeld muse, Baptiste Giabiconi, to promote the collection for Hogan Target younger and more female consumers than Luxury goods  « Masstige  » examples ? 1993: Kookai with Karl Lagerfield & Sonia Rykiel ? The  « Kookaisme  » advertising campaign  « Masstige  » examples ? 2005: Motorola by Dolce & Gabbana ? Design of the RAZR V3i. Limited edition  « Masstige  » examples ? 2006: Rossignol by Jean-Charles de Castelbajac ? Design of a Ski clothes collection for Men & Women  « Masstige  » examples ? 2008: Evian by Jean-Pau l Gaultier ? Design of a limited edition bottle  « Masstige  » examples ? 2010: Lanvin for H&M ? 2011: Versace for H&M Impact of  « Masstige  » Its advantages & Risks Consumer brand’ advantages Example of Karl Lagerfeld for H&M (2004): ? Boost sales during quiet period ? Operation launched in November, just after the  « back to school  »period and before the Holiday season ? Sales increase of 24% in November 2004 comparing to November 2003 ? Biggest monthly increase since October 2002 ? Karl Lagerfeld operation represents between 6 to 8 points of the 24%. ? Capitalize on the prestigious image of the luxury brand associated Sources: http://lesevolutions. blogspot. om/2008/04/masstige. html Luxury brand or designer’ advantages Example of Karl Lagerfield for H&M (2004): ? Reach a wider target by preserving its brand image and credibility in the luxury industry ? Beneficiate of the well-targeted and wide distribution network of H&M ? Allow luxury brands and designers to break into the accessible luxury segment through a one shot operation ? Increase brand awareness thanks to a high media exposure short term strategy Consumer’ advantages Example of Karl Lagerfield for H&M (2004): ? Access to products signed by uxury brands and famous designers at affordable prices: ? Consumers can access to products which are not counterfeits, but inspired by the High luxury with a high aesthetic value ? Prices based on the current prices of H&M products ; minimum price of 20â‚ ¬ for a product designed by Karl Lagerfeld ? With such a price positioning, H&M creates a first blurring of boundaries between mass market and luxury in the minds of consumers. ? Allows segments of middle-income people to get in touch with the complex world of symbols associated with the designer. Masstige† Risks ? Loss of brand identity ? Loss of brand imaginative faculty ? Loss of products’ psychic value ? Devaluation of the brand ? Dilution of the brand to compete ? Impairment of brand image ? The disappointment of a client on an entry-level product may rub off quickly on the ov erall brand. â€Å"Masstige† Risks ? Confusion risk between the consumer brands and the luxury brands associated ? Loss of the luxury dimension in the mind of consumers ? Loss of the luxury brand’ core customers who feels betrayed by their favorite brand ? They Looks for exclusivity, originality and quality ? Excessive demand of â€Å"masstige† could put a luxury brand at risk. ? A too wide diffusion can lead to a trivialization of the brand ? Consumers will not accept to pay a higher price. ? The consistency of the brand may be affected. CONCLUSION ? The enthusiasm of the public for this type of operation is a testament to the success of â€Å"masstige†. ? The study of luxury consumer behaviors nowadays , shows there is the passage of a daily consumption by an elite consumer to a punctual consumption by a very large number. The punctual clientele is young and composed of managers and students who they are called â€Å"excursionists. † The â€Å"masstige† is a way to introduce them to the luxury and make them adopt certain habits in order to have them as customers tomorrow. ? If â€Å"Masstige† represents many opportunities for both, it also represents some risks especially for the luxury brand associ ated. ? â€Å"Masstige† can put luxury brands at risks but it could also represent, â€Å"the third way† mixing â€Å"Cheap and Prestige†. Thanks for your attention!

The Lost Symbol Chapter 40-43

CHAPTER 40Whats taking Trish so broad?Katherine Solomon checked her watch again. Shed forgotten to inform Dr. Abaddon astir(predicate) the bizarre commute to her lab, scarce she couldnt imagine the vestige had slowed them down this ofttimes. They should arouse arrived by analogous a shot.Katherine walked oer to the exit and heaved rude the lead- lie entrance appearance, sta gang aside into the void. She listened for a mo handst, on the dot list barricade nonhing.Trish? she c al iodineed let on, her congresswo hu hu existencenesss sw e really(prenominal)owed by the shabbiness.Silence.Puzzled, she unappealing the door, withalk out her cubicle ph cardinal, and called the lobby. This is Katherine. Is Trish out at that dwelling?No, maam, the lobby bulwark said. She and your guest mattered natural coering close to ten minutes ago. truly? I dont think theyre even inwardly codfish five dollar bill unless.Hold on. Ill check. Katherine could hear the guards fi ngers clicking on his computer accountboard. Youre right. According to Ms. Dunnes unwrap-card logs, she has non even candid the codfish Five door. Her last access event was about eight minutes ago . . . at Pod Three. I guess shes vainglorious your guest a small(a) circumference on his delegacy in.Katherine frowned. App arently. The news was a bit odd, besides at least she knew Trish wouldnt be keen-sighted in Pod 3. The smell in in that respect is terrible. Thanks. Has my comrade arrived yet?No, maam, non yet.Thank you.As Katherine hung up, she felt an unanticipated twinge of trepidation. The precarious feeling made her pause, exclusively and for a moment. It was the same exact unease shed felt primitively when she blackguardped into Dr. Abaddons house. Embarrassingly, her feminine cognizance had failed her there. Badly.Its nonhing, Katherine told herself.CHAPTER 41Robert Langdon studied the perdition profit. This isnt possible.An superannuated en enterd language, Sato said without feeling up. Tell me, does this throttle?On the newly exposed hardihood of the profit, a series of sixteen characters was precisely engraved into the smooth mark. Beside Langdon, Andersons mouth now gaped open, mirroring Langdons own shock. The security hirer looked care he had upright seen many manakin of alien keypad.prof? Sato said. I subscribe to you john read this?Langdon turned. wherefore would you sequester that?Because you were brought here, Professor. You were chosen. This inscription appears to be a code of some sort, and considering your reputation, it seems obvious to me that you were brought here to trace it.Langdon had to admit that after his experiences in capital of Italy and Paris, hed received a steady period of requests asking for his help deciphering some of historys majuscule unsolved codesthe Phaistos Disk, the Dorabella Cipher, the cloak-and-dagger Voynich Manuscript.Sato ran her finger over the inscription. Can you express me the meaning of these icons?Theyre non icons, Langdon thought. Theyre symbols. The language was one he had ac lastledge this instantan encrypted cipher language from the seventeenth century. Langdon knew precise strong how to break it. Maam, he said, feeling hesitant, this gain is diaphysiss private property. underground or not, if this code is and so the priming coat you were brought to Washington, I am not boastful you a choice in the matter. I want to make out what it says.Satos BlackBerry pinged loudly, and she yanked the craft from her pocket, studying the incoming nub for some(prenominal) moments. Langdon was amazed that the Capitol Buildings internal wireless lucre provided service this saturnine the beaten track(predicate) down. Sato grunted and raised her eyebrows, softwoodsome Langdon an odd look.Chief Anderson? she said, tour to him. A vocalize in private, if I w realizeethorn? The director motioned for Anderson to join her, and they di sappeared into the pitch-black mansionway, deviation Langdon a solitary in the flickering candlelight of pricks Chamber of Reflection.Chief Anderson wondered when this shadowtime would end. A severed hand in my Rotunda? A death shrine in my basement? Bizarre engravings on a stone benefit? Somehow, the Redskins game no yearn-dated felt significant.As he followed Sato into the darkness of the hall, Anderson flicked on his flashlight. The putz was weak exclusively better than cryptograph. Sato led him down the hall a few yards, out of surge of Langdon.Have a look at this, she whispered, handing Anderson her BlackBerry.Anderson took the device and squinted at the illuminated screen. It displayed a black-and-white imagethe roentgen ray of Langdons sweetheart that Anderson had requested be sent to Sato. As in all X- rays, the bearings of greatest concentration appeared in the brightest white. In Langdons knockout, a lone item outshone everything else. Obviously extremel y dense, the object glowed homogeneous a dazzling stone in a murky jumble of separate items. Its human organic structure was unmistakable.Hes been carrying that all night? Anderson looked over at Sato in surprise. Why didnt Langdon mention this?Damned good examination, Sato whispered.The shape . . . it cant be coincidence.No, Sato said, her tone angry now. I would say not.A faint cabbage in the corridor drew Andersons attention. Startled, he pointed his flashlight down the black passageway. The dying beam revealed only a bedraggled corridor, lined with open doors.Hello? Anderson said. Is somebody there?Silence.Sato gave him an odd look, apparently having heard postcode.Anderson listened a moment longer and hence shake it stumble. Ive got to beat up out of here.Alone in the candlelit bedchamber, Langdon ran his fingers over the sharply carved edges of the benefits engraving. He was curious to do what the message said, and yet he was not about to push out on ray Solom ons privacy each to a greater extent than they already had. And why would this moonstruck care about this small profit anyway?We earn a problem, Professor, Satos voice declared loudly female genital organ him. Ive dependable received a new human of information, and Ive had enough of your lies.Langdon turned to see the OS director marching in, BlackBerry in hand and fire in her eyes. taken aback, Langdon looked to Anderson for help, however the chief was now rest guard at the door, his expression unsympathetic. Sato arrived in front of Langdon and thrust her BlackBerry in his face.Bewildered, Langdon looked at the screen, which displayed an inverted black-and-white ikongraph, like a religious film negative. The photo looked like a jumble of objects, and one of them shone very brightly. Though askew and complete center, the brightest object was clearly a bitty, pointed pyramid.A tiny pyramid? Langdon looked at Sato. What is this?The question seemed only to incense Sato f urther. Youre pretending you dont know?Langdons temper flared. Im not pretending anything Ive never seen this onward in my vitality poop Sato snapped, her voice cutting through with(predicate) the stale air. Youve been carrying it in your bag all nightI Langdon stalled midsentence. His eyes travel easily down to the daybag on his articulatio humeri. past he raised them again to the BlackBerry. My God . . . the package. He looked more(prenominal) closely at the image. without delay he saw it. A ghostly cube, enclosing the pyramid. Stunned, Langdon realized he was looking at an X-ray of his bag . . . and besides of Peters mysterious cube-shaped package. The cube was, in fact, a hollow box . . . a small pyramid.Langdon opened his mouth to speak, just his words failed him. He felt the breathing spell go out of his lungs as a new revelation struck him.Simple. Pure. Devastating.My God. He looked back at the truncated stone pyramid on the desk. Its apex was blanda small square reacha blank s dance step symbolically awaiting its final piece . . . that piece which would vary it from an Unfinished benefit into a aline Pyramid.Langdon now realized the tiny pyramid he was carrying was not a pyramid at all. Its a capstone. At that instant, he knew why he alone could open the mysteries of this pyramid.I hold the final piece.And it is indeed . . . a amu permit. When Peter had told Langdon the package contained a talisman, Langdon had laughed. Now he realized his relay transmitter was right. This tiny capstone was a talisman, yet not the magic kind . . . the farthermost older kind. Long beforehand talisman had magical connotations, it had some other meaning completion. From the classical telesma, meaning complete, a talisman was any object or idea that accurate another and made it whole. The finishing element. A capstone, symbolically speaking, was the ultimate talisman, transforming the Unfinished Pyramid into a symbol of completed perfection.Langdo n now felt an eerie convergence that oblige him to select one very extraneous truth with the exception of its size, the stone pyramid in Peters Chamber of Reflection seemed to be transforming itself, bit by bit, into something vaguely resembling the masonic Pyramid of legend.From the brightness with which the capstone shone on the X-ray, Langdon suspected it was made of metal . . . a very dense metal. Whether or not it was solid gold, he had no way of knowing, and he was not about to let his mind start playing tricks on him. This pyramid is too small. The codes too weak to read. And . . . its a myth, for heavens sakeSato was watching him. For a bright man, Professor, youve made some vague choices tonight. Lying to an intelligence director? advisedly obstructing a CIA investigation?I can explain, if youll let me.You lead be explaining at CIA headquarters. As of this moment, I am detaining you.Langdons body went rigid. You cant possibly be serious.Deadly serious. I made it very clear to you that the stake tonight were high, and you chose not to cooperate. I potently suggest you start thinking about explaining the inscription on this pyramid, because when we arrive at the CIA . . . She raised her BlackBerry and took a close-up snap of the engraving on the stone pyramid. My analysts leave have had a head start.Langdon opened his mouth to protest, provided Sato was already turning to Anderson at the door. Chief, she said, put the stone pyramid in Langdons bag and carry it. Ill pull off taking Mr. Langdon into custody. Your weapon, if I may?Anderson was stone-faced as he advanced into the chamber, unsnapping his shoulder holster as he came. He gave his gun to Sato, who immediately aimed it at Langdon.Langdon watched as if in a dream. This cannot be happening.Anderson now came to Langdon and removed the daybag from his shoulder, carrying it over to the desk and facilityting it on the chair. He unzipped the bag, propped it open, and so hoisted the heavy stone pyramid off the desk and into the bag, along with Langdons notes and the tiny package. Suddenly there was a rustle of movement in the hallway. A dark outline of a man materialized in the doorway, rushing into the chamber and approaching fast behind Anderson. The chief never saw him coming. In an instant, the eery had lowered his shoulder and crashed into Andersons back. The chief launched forward, his head cracking into the edge of the stone niche. He fell hard, crumpling on the desk, sending bones and artifacts flying. The hourglass shattered on the floor. The candle toppled to the floor, soothe burning.Sato reeled amid the topsy-turvydom, raising the gun, only the intruder grabbed a femur and lashed out with it, striking her shoulder with the leg bone. Sato let out a cry of pain and fell back, move the weapon. The newcomer kicked the gun away and thence wheeled toward Langdon. The man was tall and slender, an fine African American whom Langdon had never seen before i n his life.Grab the pyramid the man commanded. happen meCHAPTER 42The African American man leading Langdon through the Capitols subterraneous maze was clearly someone of mightiness. beyond knowing his way through all the side corridors and back rooms, the elegant singular carried a key ring that seemed to unlock every door that blocked their way.Langdon followed, quickly running up an unfamiliar staircase. As they climbed, he felt the leather worst of his daybag cutting hard into his shoulder. The stone pyramid was so heavy that Langdon feared the bags strap big jobman break.The past few minutes defied all logic, and now Langdon found himself moving on instinct alone. His gut told him to trust this stranger. beyond saving Langdon from Satos arrest, the man had taken perilous action to comfort Peter Solomons mysterious pyramid. any(prenominal) the pyramid may be. opus his motivation remained a mystery, Langdon had glimpsed a talebearer shimmer of gold on the mans handa mas onic ringthe double-headed capital of Arizona and the number 33. This man and Peter Solomon were more than trusted sensations. They were masonic brothers of the highest degree.Langdon followed him to the top of the stairs, into another corridor, and then through an unmarked door into a utilitarian hallway. They ran past yield boxes and bags of garbage, veering off of a sudden through a service door that deposited them in an utterly unthought worlda plush movie theater of some sort. The older man led the way up the side aisle and out the main doors into the light of a considerable atrium. Langdon now realized they were in the visitor center through which he had entered earlier tonight. Unfortunately, so was a Capitol police officer.As they came face-to-face with the officer, all three men stopped, staring at one another. Langdon accept the young Hispanic officer from the X-ray machine earlier tonight.Officer Nunez, the African American man said. Not a word. Follow me.The guar d looked uneasy but obeyed without question.Who is this guy?The three of them speed toward the southeastern corner of the visitor center, where they arrived at a small foyer and a set of heavy doors blocked with orange pylons. The doors were wet with masking tape, apparently to keep the spread of whatever was happening beyond out of the visitor center. The man reached up and naked off the tape on the door. Then he flipped through his key ring as he wheel spoke to the guard. Our friend Chief Anderson is in the subbasement. He may be injured. Youll want to check on him.Yes, sir. Nunez looked as baffled as he did alarmed.Most important, you did not see us. The man found a key, took it off the key ring, and used it to turn the heavy murdered rigidly. He pulled open the steel door and tossed the key to the guard. Lock this door behind us. Put the tape back on as best as you can. take the key and say nothing. To anyone. Including the chief. Is that clear, Officer Nunez?The guard eyed the key as if hed just been entrusted with a precious gem. It is, sir.The man hurried through the door, and Langdon followed. The guard locked the heavy bolt behind them, and Langdon could hear him re-applying the masking tape.Professor Langdon, the man said as they strode briskly down a modern-looking corridor that was obviously under social organization. My name is Warren Bellamy. Peter Solomon is a dear friend of mine.Langdon shot a startled glance at the schematic man. Youre Warren Bellamy? Langdon had never met the interior designer of the Capitol, but he certainly knew the mans name.Peter speaks very highly of you, Bellamy said, and Im sorry we are confrontation under these dreadful circumstances.Peter is in terrible trouble. His hand . . .I know. Bellamy vocaliseed grim. Thats not the half of it, Im afraid.They reached the end of the lit share of corridor, and the passageway took an astute left. The remaining duration of corridor, wherever it went, was pitch-black. Hold on, Bellamy said, disappearing into a nearby electrical room from which a tangle of heavy-duty orange university extension cords snaked out, running away from them into the darkness of the corridor. Langdon waited while Bellamy rooted around inside. The clothes designer must have located the vanquish that sent power to the extension cords, because suddenly the route before them became illuminated.Langdon could only stare.Washington, D.C.like Romewas a city distort with cloak-and-dagger passageways and underground tunnels. The passage before them now reminded Langdon of the passetto tunnel connecting the Vatican to Castel SantAngelo. Long. Dark. Narrow. Unlike the past passetto, however, this passage was modern and not yet complete. It was a slender construction geographical zone that was so long it seemed to narrow to nothing at its distant end. The only light source was a string of intermittent construction bulbs that did little more than accentuate the tunnels unfea sible length.Bellamy was already heading down the passage. Follow me. Watch your step.Langdon felt himself fall into step behind Bellamy, wondering where on country this tunnel led.At that moment, Malakh stepped out of Pod 3 and strode briskly down the deserted main corridor of the SMSC toward Pod 5. He clutched Trishs key card in his hand and quietly whispered, Zero-eight-zero-four.Something else was cycling through his mind as well. Malakh had just received an urgent message from the Capitol Building. My contact has run into unforeseen difficulties. however so, the news remained encouraging Robert Langdon now feature both the pyramid and the capstone. Despite the unexpected way in which it had happened, the crucial pieces were falling into place. It was almost as if destiny itself were maneuver tonights events, ensuring Malakhs victory.CHAPTER 43Langdon hurried to keep pace with Warren Bellamys brisk footsteps as they moved without a word down the long tunnel. So far, the Arc hitect of the Capitol appeared far more intent on putting exceed between Sato and this stone pyramid than he did on explaining to Langdon what was going on. Langdon had a growth apprehension that there was far more going on than he could imagine.The CIA? The Architect of the Capitol? Two Thirty-third-degree Masons? The shrill sound of Langdons cell scream cut the air. He pulled his phone from his jacket. Uncertain, he answered. Hello? The voice that spoke was an eerie, familiar whisper. Professor, I hear you had unexpected company.Langdon felt an icy chill. Where the hell is Peter? he demanded, his words reverberating in the enclosed tunnel. Beside him, Warren Bellamy glanced over, looking come to and motioning for Langdon to keep walking.Dont worry, the voice said. As I told you, Peter is somewhere safe.You cut off his hand, for Gods sake He needs a doctorHe needs a priest, the man replied. further you can part with him. If you do as I command, Peter allow for live. I give y ou my word.The word of a madman means nothing to me.Madman? Professor, surely you appreciate the prize with which I have adhered to the ancient protocols tonight. The flip over of the Mysteries guided you to a portalthe pyramid that promises to unveil ancient wisdom. I know you now possess it.You think this is the Masonic Pyramid? Langdon demanded. Its a chunk of rock.thither was silence on the other end of the line. Mr. Langdon, youre too smart to play dumb. You know very well what youve uncovered tonight. A stone pyramid . . . hidden at the core of Washington, D.C. . . . by a tidy Mason?Youre chasing a myth any(prenominal) Peter told you, he told you in fear.The fable of the Masonic Pyramid is fiction. The Masons never make any pyramid to protect secret wisdom. And even if they did, this pyramid is far too small to be what you think it is.The man chuckled. I see Peter has told you very little. Nonetheless, Mr. Langdon, whether or not you choose to accept what it is you now po ssess, you go out do as I say. I am well aware that the pyramid you are carrying has an encrypted engraving. You will decipher that engraving for me. Then, and only then, will I return Peter Solomon to you.Whatever you believe this engraving reveals, Langdon said, it wont be the superannuated Mysteries.Of course not, he replied. The mysteries are far too vast to be write on the side of a little stone pyramid.The response caught Langdon off guard. But if this engraving is not the Ancient Mysteries, then this pyramid is not the Masonic Pyramid. falsehood clearly states the Masonic Pyramid was constructed to protect the Ancient Mysteries. The mans tone was condescending now. Mr. Langdon, the Masonic Pyramid was constructed to preserve the Ancient Mysteries, but with a twist youve apparently not yet grasped. Did Peter never tell you? The power of the Masonic Pyramid is not that it reveals the mysteries themselves . . . but rather that it reveals the secret stance where the mysterie s are buried.Langdon did a double take. trace the engraving, the voice continued, and it will tell you the privateness place of mankinds greatest treasure. He laughed. Peter did not entrust you with the treasure itself, Professor.Langdon came to an abrupt halt in the tunnel. Hold on. Youre mountrb this pyramid is . . . a map? Bellamy shaken to a stop now, too, his expression one of shock and alarm. Clearly, the caller had just hit a raw nerve. The pyramid is a map.This map, the voice whispered, or pyramid, or portal, or whatever you choose to call it . . . was created long ago to ensure the hiding place of the Ancient Mysteries would never be forgotten . . . that it would never be lost to history.A grid of sixteen symbols doesnt look much like a map.Appearances can be deceiving, Professor. But regardless, you alone have the power to read that inscription.Youre wrong, Langdon fired back, picturing the simple cipher. Anyone could decipher this engraving. Its not very sophisticated .I suspect there is more to the pyramid than meets the eye. Regardless, you alone possess the capstone.Langdon pictured the little capstone in his bag. Order from chaos? He didnt know what to believe anymore, but the stone pyramid in his bag seemed to be getting heavier with every crack moment.Malakh pressed the cell phone to his ear, enjoying the sound of Langdons anxious breathing on the other end. Right now, I have business to attend to, Professor, and so do you. send for me as soon as you have deciphered the map. We will go in concert to the hiding place and make our trade. Peters life . . . for all the wisdom of the ages.I will do nothing, Langdon declared. Especially not without substantiation Peter is alive.I suggest you not test me. You are a very small cog in a vast machine. If you disobey me, or attempt to find me, Peter will die. This I swear. For all I know, Peter is already dead.He is very much alive, Professor, but he desperately needs your help.What are you really looking for? Langdon shouted into the phone.Malakh paused before answering. Many people have engage the Ancient Mysteries and debated their power. Tonight, I will prove the mysteries are real.Langdon was silent.I suggest you get to work on the map immediately, Malakh said. I need this information today.Today? Its already after nine oclockExactly. Tempus fugit.