David Hume Essays (954 words) - David Hume, Philosophy Of Science

David Hume In An Inquiry Concerning Human Understanding, David Hume demonstrates how there is no way to rationally make any claims about future occurrences. According to Hume knowledge of matters of fact come from previous experience. From building on this rationale, Hume goes on to prove how, as humans we can only make inferences on what will happen in the future, based on our experiences of the past. But he points out that we are incorrect to believe that we are justified in using our experience of the past as a means of evidence of what will happen in the future. Since we have only experience of the past, we can only offer propositions of the future. Hume classifies human into two categories; "Relations of Ideas," and "Matters of Fact." (240) "Relations of ideas" are either intuitively or demonstratively certain, such as in Mathematics (240). It can be affirmed that 2 + 2 equals 4, according to Hume's"relations of ideas." "Matters of fact" on the other hand are not ascertained in the same manner as "Relations of Ideas." The ideas that are directly caused by impressions are called "matters of fact". With"matters of fact," there is no certainty in establishing evidence of truth since every contradiction is possible. Hume uses the example of the sun rising in the future to demonstrate how as humans, we are unjustified in making predictions of the future based on past occurrences. As humans, we tend to use the principle of induction to predict what will occur in the future. Out of habit, we assume that sun will rise every day, like it has done in the past, but we have no basis of actual truth to make this justification. By claiming that the sun will rise tomorrow according to Hume is not false, nor is it true. Hume illustrates that "the contrary of every matter of fact is still possible, because it can never imply a contradiction and is conceived by the mind with the same facility and distinctness as if ever so conformable to reality" (240). Just because the sun has risen in the past does not serve as evidence for the future. Thus, according to Hume, we are only accurate in saying that there is a fifty- percent chance that the sun will rise tomorrow. Hume felt that all reasoning concerning matter of fact seemed to be founded on the relation between cause and effect. (241) Hume said that even though the cause preceded the effect, there is no proof that the cause is responsible for the effect's occurrence , it could be purely coincidental. He claims that the human notion of cause and effect is ungrounded in empirical evidence, but rather given only reasonable probability through continuous reinforcement. Hume's rejection of causation implies a rejection of scientific laws, which are based on the general premise that one event necessarily causes another and predictably always will. According to Hume's philosophy, therefore, knowledge of matters of fact is impossible, although as a practical matter he freely acknowledged that people had to think in terms of cause and effect, and had to assume the validity of their perceptions, For example, if I touch the hot stove, I will get burnt. This statement does not necessitate that when I touch the hot stove, (cause) I will always get burnt (effect). Instead, according to Hume, I have no good reason to think that it will not happen again. Hume, however, went further, endeavoring to prove that reason and rational judgments are merely habitual associations of distinct impressions or experiences. Hume claims that all our ideas, which form the basis of our knowledge, are derived from impressions that we take in from the outside world and into the inside world of our mind. Hume grouped perceptions and experiences into one of two categories: impressions and ideas. (238) According to Hume, ideas are memories of sensations but impressions are the cause of the sensation. An impression is part of a temporary feeling, but an idea is the permanent impact of this feeling. Hume believed that ideas were just dull imitations of impressions. Hume did not believe that a priori, knowledge based on reasoning can deduce true knowledge. Knowledge based on reasoning alone, according to Hume does not provide understanding of the real world. He believed that all ideas have to have impressions, that the human mind invented nothing. So, according to Hume, a priori reasoning does not offer any understanding of the real world, because they cannot be traced to the impressions that first created them.

Impediments to Political, Economic and Social Modernisation in Asia

Impediments to Political, Economic and Social Modernisation in Asia Asia is regarded as the largest continent in the world. It spans from China in the eastern extreme and India in the west. Despite the fact that upcoming economies hail from this continent, some countries are still struggling in terms of making their social, political and economic systems better and modernised.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Impediments to Political, Economic and Social Modernisation in Asia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Economic modernisation is characterised by several indicators among them high employment rates, high Gross National Income, less dependence on foreign aid and a high Gross Domestic Production (Brach 16). Most Asian countries are still not able to realize these due to various impediments. The first one is the issue of small markets. The availability of a ready and big market for any country is vital. The success of any international trade is based on the rate of foreign exchange th rough exports and imports. Second, there is notable economic over reliance on resources and the tourism sectors. Diversification of sources of public fund helps in ensuring that economic growth is guaranteed even when a sector fails. Most Asian economies have placed much reliance on tourism and resource exploitation instead of developing other sectors (Brach 17). The recent global crunch has seen them suffer a lot. The third factor is increased migration of skilled workers and professionals. Most professionals from India and other Asian countries have been lured to work in Europe and America creating a labor vacuum in their own countries. The brain drain effect has in turn denied these countries its best intellectuals and professionals (Brach 17). Retrograde education system is the fourth impediment to economic modernisation in Asia. The education system in Asia has not changed with time even after the Asian countries became independent. The old education systems which were to sui t the colonial masters are still in place today making it difficult for them to embrace technology in a technological dynamic world (Seels and Richey 26-28). The fifth factor is lack of meritocracy. Achievement based on merit is usually crucial in every private and public institution. However, most Asian countries do not embrace this ideal thereby making the qualified to be left out in major appointments (Sparrow 50). Nepotism has been a factor in securing job opportunities giving rise to poor workmanship. Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This impediment has contributed directly to the sixth one which is corruption. Corruption in most Asian countries has been rampant and has manifested itself through many ways such as stealing of public funds, white elephant projects, nepotism and tax evasion by the wealthy. The last impediment that can be identified is climactic factors. The Far East is characterized by some climatic disasters such as tsunamis and landslides. The effect of these calamities is slower economic growth since most resources are redirected to rescue operations, resettlement missions and sourcing for specialized treatment for the injured. The tsunami that hit Indonesia in 2004 for instance claimed over 200,000 lives and displaced about 140,000 (Rao 31). Political goodwill positively affects economic growth. Most nations that enjoy stable political systems are economically empowered while the unstable are still poor. Hindrances to the realization of these political advancements in Asia are discussed next. The first one is exploitation and division under colonial rule. The departure of the colonial masters was a big relief to the colonised but the long term effects of colonisation are still visible today. The divide and rule system of ruling used by the colonisers was deeply inculcated into the natives (Sparrow 45). The effect has been that even today leaders rule on a divided platform which was left by the colonial masters. Second is the presence of authoritarian governments. Democratisation is a key advancement in political institutions. The authoritarian mode of governance witnessed in most countries in Asia negates the rule of democracy in most decision making processes (Sparrow 46). The grooming of Presidents’ sons to become future leaders is usually demeaning to the existent political systems. The impediment is political fragmentation. Most nations were united before the colonial masters set their feet in their territory. The departure of these masters was followed by the fragmentation of political units for resources sharing. Inequitable share of these resources has led to emergence of civil wars that have negatively hindered the revolution of such systems. According to Sparrow (45-47) current efforts geared towards unification of such countries have failed. The social systems play a crucial r ole in ensuring that citizens co-exist peacefully, have access to social amenities and adopt a particular way of life. However, insecurity and crime is one of the major impediments. Most Asian countries have had to contend with rising cases of insecurity and crime due to deteriorating social systems. Most of the criminals are those who venture into the vice for lack of employment. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Impediments to Political, Economic and Social Modernisation in Asia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The other factor is cultural differences. Whereas the practice of different cultures is allowed in most countries, some conservative cultural beliefs and practices are long overdue. A good example is the Caste system applied in India. According to Imamoglu, the system has led to social discrimination between different castes thereby creating a line of separation within the same race (140-145). The emergence of China and Japan as economic powers has not been an easy venture. The rapid address of the discussed factors has played a key role in ensuring that they keep pace with most European countries. A similar approach, therefore, can be adopted by the rest for future sustainability. Brach, Julien. What hinders economic development in the East. German Institute of Global and Area Studies. 2008, Pp. 16-17 Imamoglu, Evans O. An interdependence model of human development: Growth and progress in cross-cultural psychology. Lisle, The Netherlands: Swets and Zeitlinger. 2004, Pp. 140-145 Rao, David P. Disaster management, International Journal of Disaster Reduction. McGraw-Hill Plc. 2006, Pp. 31-32 Seels, Barnard Richey, Raymond. Understanding instructional technology. Learning Cengage. 1994, Pp. 26-28. Sparrow, Oliver. â€Å"Factors affecting social and economic development.† The Challenge Network. Washington, DC. May 2004, Pp. 45-50Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More

Retail Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Retail Marketing - Essay Example An underground ticket hall connects Kings Cross Underground Station to St Pancras International via the western concourse. Interchange from Kings Cross main line to St Pancras is on street level. The open, bright design, general cleanliness and high-end retail outlets of St Pancras International create a positive sense of arrival for passengers and have resulted in the station acting as a destination in its own right. Movement paths within the interchange facility are largely direct and clear with good sight lines and little clutter. Spatial management is good with mixed use spaces arranged to either side of movement spaces, decision points are relatively clear with minimal advertising or other distractions. Much of the station environment is step free with lifts, where needed, located on desire lines. A visible staff presence, combined with pedestrian and retail activity promotes a sense of safety and security. St Pancras International has a wide range of eateries available from fine dining in the St Pancras Grand to top notch nosh in traditional London gastro pub and fresh food on the go in many casual dining restaurants. St Pancras grant: The restaurant, created by Martin Brudnizki, the celebrated designer is a glamorous setting. There is an elegant Whiskey bar and stylish Oyster Bar which are for coffee meetings, pre-dinner drinks and informal dining. There is a graceful Betjeman room which offers private dining and is also perfect for business meetings.   Mirroring some of the great restaurants and bars from around the world, Head Chef, Chris Dines menus reflect the best of what is truly British, changing regularly in accordance with the seasons and availability of locally sourced produce. The wine list, artfully compiled to complement the food, will please the most discerning customer and has premium wines available by the glass and carafe. The Betjeman Arms is a fantastic gastro pub offering great british

Answer the question Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 6

Answer the question - Assignment Example In an attempt to enhance positive organizational change, the company has a philosophy that inspires employees to transform vital aspects of their lives (Tolbert, 2008, p. 2). Organizational philosophy encourages employees to work hard towards making personal achievements. Motivation, therefore, is a vital aspect when conducting duties and a cause of success in diverse activities. The company has policies on staffing and promoting employees. It only staffs and promotes individuals based on proper records and experience. Every employee, therefore, strives for excellence to secure promotion (Tolbert, 2008, p. 3). Nature of the organization, however, discourages employees to work in some instances. Conditions may affect employees’ medical health or discriminate on some individuals. The organization handles waste materials that expose employees to fungal or bacterial infections and breathing problems. Workplace challenges may deprive employee of their morale to work. Other companies such as cement manufacturing firms subject employees to breathing-related health challenges caused by excessive dust. Some organizations do not allow women to ascend beyond supervisory role (Tolbert, 2008 p. 5). The organization considers male employees for managerial posts despite their female counterparts’ justification for promotion. The organization should focus on policies that have a positive influence on the

Pharmacognosy Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Pharmacognosy - Assignment Example ounding and decompartmentation, later they are converted into the membrane-active monodesmosidic saponin that is amphiphilic with detergent activities (GANG, p. 14-16). Saponin has diverse range of properties that include medicinal properties, sweetness and bitterness, pharmacological and hemolytic properties, therefore, finding a variety of application in beverages and confectionery, also in pharmaceutical products as hormone synthesis. Examples of the plants containing saponin include Quillaja saponaria, Glycine max, Dioscorea villosa, Sapindus, and Gynostemma pentaphyllum. They provide good examples of sources of nutrition and traditional medicine, nd has gained interest mainly from the medical community due to their high concentration of saponins (GANG, p. 14-16). Alkaloids are alkaline nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds derived from higher plants and exhibiting marked pharmacological activity. They are important chemical compounds that serve as a rich reservoir for drug discovery. Many alkaloids isolated from natural herbs exhibit anti-proliferation and anti-metastasis effects on the various effects on several types’ illness such as cancers. Alkaloids contain a ring structure and a nitrogen atom mainly located inside the heterocyclic ring structure. Several categories of alkaloids exhibit biological activities, for instance relieving action of ephedrine for asthma. Additionally, alkaloids are mainly active in plants belonging to Papaveraceae, Ranunculaceae, and Loganiaceae, therefore, containing important active components in natural herbs, with some of its compounds being developed successfully into chemotherapeutic drugs. It also has a wide range of bioactivities such as antibacterial, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, and sedat ion among others. Depending on the plant species, alkaloids can occur in all parts of the plant, mostly in roots, thus serves as a storage form of nitrogen and act as a protective agent against damage from Ultra violet light,

Stereotypes of gender and female employment

Stereotypes of gender and female employment Gender stereotypes are associated with the phenomenon of female employment in specific job types. This paper in general looks at the nature of stereotyping. Many researchers have documented this issue in their works and hence this paper goes a mile to look at this phenomenon of stereotyping in countries of Africa, Asia and South Africa. It surveys the relevant materials documented on this topic. This presentation will look at the reviews of existing measures on gender stereotyping. This presentation goes a mile further to detail the dynamic concept of gender stereotyping and tries to suggest measures brought in by developing countries can be accommodated. Lastly these presentation analyses the aspect of stereotyping of occupations in the developing countries. Documented evidence of gender stereotyping has been done with many writers and researchers all of them giving vital reasons as to why discussion of occupational segregation on labor market at large. This has been done by many including Hakim (1979), Elia (1988), Anker (1998) and Reskin Hartmann (1986) Occupational isolation occurs when different people participate in different kinds of occupations and there exists rigidity in the mobility of groups or people from one occupation to another. This presentation looks majorly at such occupational segregation which occurs along gender lines. We often find occupations which are termed male or female specific. Women and male workers have been divided and consideration for jobs in each gender group is segregated. Female candidates are not considered for male prioritized jobs and the same for the women. Less demanding and less paying jobs are left for women while men compete for the well paying through which the issue of gender isolation is widely brought out. This kind of segregation reduces efficiency and this is the point where gender stereotyping is evident. Women are concluded in thoughts to be house wife and many still have the generalization that women will still transfer the way they work in the house to the job place. This has lead to differential in wage payment forcing women to be paid in the lower rated jobs while men are paid heavily in the state of high income jobs. Thus, we view a subtle difference between segregation and stereotyping. Occupational segregation exists when men and women are differently distributed across occupations to a degree greater than is consistent with their overall shares of employment, irrespective of the nature of job allocation. Stereotyping is the phenomenon when the occupational segregation persists, maintains itself, and for a period of time continues to enrich itself fully between people. It is a concept that keeps on changing and full of life as compared to segregation which is static in a way. Stereotyping prohibits people to continue doing a job in the same group without changing a vice that has left female workers in a low class as compared to their counterparts. At this point the women remain in a poor state whereas men continue to prosper by advancing in other fields that require resources or opportunities that result out of occupation of such high cadre in the society. A consensus has been yielded that globalization policies in developing countries have devalued the traditional set up of female work which include agriculture in particular agro based and small scale production. This has displaced women form this form of occupation to certain newly created job types. Facts prove also that women specific income and development projects do not receive the same funding of resources and attention hence leading to the concentration of women in marginal economic sectors. For sure concentration of women laborers has risen in ill paid and low skilled jobs living their counterparts in much higher paying jobs. Experiences from East European transition economies also reveal the fact that there is preponderance of over-employment of female labor force in certain employments. These are the jobs with longer working hours, shorter retirement rates, and lower wages. International labor organization studies on women in the labor market disclose the occupational segre gation and the employment problem of the women in transition economies. Absorption of female workers is high in the informal sector activities in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Statistics from South American nations like Brazil, Jamaica and many others show that female laborers are strenuous in low-skilled job groups (Vickers, 1991). Displacement from original spheres of activities for both genders have combined with increasing concentration of female labor in marginal activities like being employed in minimal works at the tail end of the production process in companies. Through this globalization has brought in indirect form of occupational segregation into gender types The simplest measure of occupational segregation has been the sex ratio of the workers employed in the various occupations. If there exists q occupations indicated by x. Mx and Fx indicate respectively the number of male and female workers in the xth occupation, then Sx = Fx/ Mx indicate occupational segregation ratios. Higher Sx means that the particular occupation x has more concentration of females relative to males. Degrees of gender segregation has been defined in order of ascendance of the measure =Sx. Higher values and lower values of the indicator helps to categorize the occupations as exclusively men (EXM), mainly men (M), mixed (MF), mainly women (F) and exclusively women (EXF). This gauge has been used by many researchers successfully (Reskin Hartmann, 1986) to approximate the extent of segregation in different nations across occupations and also across jobs. Occupations are defined as aggregates over the cluster of jobs belonging to the occupation. Empirical data has sh own that occupational segregation can smoothen out the extent of segregation across job types. So sometimes segregation across job types reveal the segregation across occupations. Whatever may be the extent of desegregation, this measure of segregation suffers from the absence of relativity as this does not measure relative concentration of females compared to males in the occupations. Several other models are available but all with an objective to illustrate discrimination against gender. Occupational isolation is thus the main precondition for existence and generation of gender stereotyping. Since it is difficult to get together similar data of worldwide distribution of occupational gender distribution, the work of identifying the emerging stereotype work zones worldwide still remains. However, one can get a feel of the trouble from the data laid done in tables below. The practical figures regarding earnings differential of female and male workers can be taken to be an indication of occupational segregation. This problem is an unrelenting one and also a developing one mostly in the developing countries and the transition economies. The process of globalization has also brought in new occupations and job types in the third world countries. This vice itself as a reinforcing process to create gender stereotypes. There is need to identify areas of existing and emerging stereotypes so that necessary actions can be taken to prevent such labor market rigidity.

Overview of Orthopedics Essay -- essays research papers

Overview of Orthopedics / The Orthopedic Team What is orthopedics? The word orthopedic comes from two Greek words:  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  ortho meaning straight  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  pedia meaning children Orthopedics is the branch of medicine concerned with diseases, injuries, and conditions of the musculoskeletal system - relating to the body's muscles and skeleton, and including the joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. The proper title of this medical specialty is orthopedic surgery, although orthopedics is a generally accepted term. Who treats orthopedic conditions? Orthopedic conditions may be treated by your physician and/or other medical specialists and healthcare providers. Several physicians from different medical specialties may be involved in the treatment at the same time. This multidisciplinary team approach is particularly important in managing the symptoms of an orthopedic condition, especially as many symptoms are chronic and change in severity over time. Some of the more common medical professionals involved in the treatment of orthopedic conditions may include the following:  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Primary Care Physician A primary care physician is one who has specialized education and training in general internal medicine, family practice, or another first-level-of-care area. Primary care physicians are those who provide patients with any/all of the following: o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  routine health care (including annual physical examinations and immunizations) o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  treatment for acute medical conditions o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  initial care for conditions that may become more serious or chronic in nature While your primary care physician may treat and/or diagnose your disease, he/she may refer you to a specialist for more specialized treatment of certain aspects of a disease.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Orthopedic Surgeon The physician who specializes in orthopedic surgery is called an orthopedic surgeon, or sometimes, simply, an orthopedist. Orthopedists are educated in the workings of the musculoskeletal system, which includes (but is not limited to) diagnosing a condition or disorder, identifying and treating an injury, providing rehabilitation to an affected area or function, and establishing prevention protocol to inhibit further damage to a diseased area... ...sp;  assisting children and adults in learning how to carry out daily tasks o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  conducting group or individual treatment to help children and adults in a mental health center learn to cope with daily activities o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  recommending changes in layout and design of the home or school to allow children and adults with injuries or disabilities greater access and mobility Occupational therapists work in a variety of different settings, including the following:  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  hospitals  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  rehabilitation centers  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  schools  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  home care agencies  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  private practice  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  government agencies  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Podiatrist A podiatrist specializes in foot care and is licensed to prescribe medication and perform surgery.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Nurses Nurses specialized in the care of orthopedic conditions may assist your physician in providing care. In addition, these nurses will help you to understand your treatment plan and can answer many of your questions.

Ap World History Ch 20

Chapter 20 Study Guide The Muslim Empires The following terms, people, and events are important to your understanding of the chapter. Take notes over the concepts listed below answering the following questions for each concept: Who? (when needed) Where? , What? , Why? , How? , and historical significance. Definitions are not sufficient. Definitions alone will earn a daily grade no higher than 50%. OttomansMehmed IIJanissariesVizierSafavid DynastySail al-Din (Saladin) Red HeadsIsma’ilChaldiran Shah Abbas the Greatimamsmullahs IsfahanNadir Khan AfsharMughal Dynasty BaburHumayanAkbar Din-i-IlahiTaj MahalNur Jahan AurangzebJahangirShah Jahan Further notes need to be taken on the Following AP World History Themes and Skills Theme 1: Interaction between humans and the environment: (Population patterns and impacts of disease, Migrations, Patterns of settlement, Technology)Theme 2: Development and interactions of cultures: (Religions, Belief systems, philosophies, ideologies, Science and technology, Arts and architecture) Theme 3: State building, expansion and conflict: (Political structures and forms of governance, Empires, National and nationalism, Revolts and revolutions, Regional, trans-regional, and global structures and organizations) Theme 4: Creation, expansion and interaction of economic systems: (Agricultural and pastoral production, Trade and commerce, Labor systems,Industrialization, Capitalism and socialism) Theme 5: Development and transformation of social structures: (Gender roles and relations, Family and kinship, Racial and ethnic constructions, Social and economic classes) Key Questions: Answer the following questions with your best AP effort. 1. What were the similarities and differences of the three Muslim Empires (Ottomans, Safavids, and Mughals)? 2. What were the causes of the Ottoman decline in the 17th Century? 3. What weaknesses were common to all of the Muslim Empires? Ap World History Ch 20 Chapter 20 Study Guide The Muslim Empires The following terms, people, and events are important to your understanding of the chapter. Take notes over the concepts listed below answering the following questions for each concept: Who? (when needed) Where? , What? , Why? , How? , and historical significance. Definitions are not sufficient. Definitions alone will earn a daily grade no higher than 50%. OttomansMehmed IIJanissariesVizierSafavid DynastySail al-Din (Saladin) Red HeadsIsma’ilChaldiran Shah Abbas the Greatimamsmullahs IsfahanNadir Khan AfsharMughal Dynasty BaburHumayanAkbar Din-i-IlahiTaj MahalNur Jahan AurangzebJahangirShah Jahan Further notes need to be taken on the Following AP World History Themes and Skills Theme 1: Interaction between humans and the environment: (Population patterns and impacts of disease, Migrations, Patterns of settlement, Technology)Theme 2: Development and interactions of cultures: (Religions, Belief systems, philosophies, ideologies, Science and technology, Arts and architecture) Theme 3: State building, expansion and conflict: (Political structures and forms of governance, Empires, National and nationalism, Revolts and revolutions, Regional, trans-regional, and global structures and organizations) Theme 4: Creation, expansion and interaction of economic systems: (Agricultural and pastoral production, Trade and commerce, Labor systems,Industrialization, Capitalism and socialism) Theme 5: Development and transformation of social structures: (Gender roles and relations, Family and kinship, Racial and ethnic constructions, Social and economic classes) Key Questions: Answer the following questions with your best AP effort. 1. What were the similarities and differences of the three Muslim Empires (Ottomans, Safavids, and Mughals)? 2. What were the causes of the Ottoman decline in the 17th Century? 3. What weaknesses were common to all of the Muslim Empires?

Paul’s Teachings and His Impact on Christianity

It is a widely accepted notion that Paul of Tarsus, a Christian teacher living from AD 4- 67, ultimately and significantly impacted Christianity's expression. Through his writings and beliefs, Paul has changed the spiritual dimension of Christianity in its entirety. Paul, originally a persecutor of Christians for the Roman Empire, received his conversion on the Road to Damascus. It is this that prompted his change of heart, and for his incessant preaching of the gospel.Perhaps driven by his former life, Paul preached the notion of love to all. â€Å"If I have no love, I am like a clanging gong,† he wrote in one of his epistles. In Galatians, Paul notes the importance of love as one of the ‘Fruits of the Spirit'. This devotion to loving one another impacted Christianity as previously, this idea had not been taught so prominently (except, obviously, by Christ). Paul taught that Christians were to, as Jesus taught and demonstrated by His death on the cross, love through all circumstances, as love â€Å"never fails†.This idea has led to the teaching, in many churches now, of adherents ‘becoming love', or becoming one with the qualities Paul so admired in the Saviour he worshipped. Secondly, Paul's preaching of salvation through faith, and, more importantly, through God's grace, led to the amazing expansion of Christianity through the salvation of new believers. In this way, Paul made Christianity accessible to all, no matter whether they were â€Å"Jew or Gentile, male or female, freed or slave†.This revolutionised religious expression as anyone knew it, as previously, salvation was earned through works (for example, sacrifices and commandments). Paul, once again building on Jesus' teachings, taught that obeying commandments was not the way to earn salvation, but was a way to show love for Jesus. While this idea was predominately lost until Martin Luther's reformation, Christianity was transformed by this and expanded significantly as a result. Paul also reiterated the importance of relying on Jesus, which is expressed in his letter to the Colossian church.Their reliance on the self was causing nothing but trouble for their spiritual lives, and Paul was quick to point this uot. Rather than testing human capabilities, Paul promoted the idea of keeping faith in the works of God, through constant prayer and reading of God's word. This, he said, would lead to a spiritually stronger church. This idea transformed the way Christian churches react in the face of crisis – whether to stand on their own ideas (â€Å"lean not on your own understanding,† as the Old Testament says) or to â€Å"Trust in the Lord your God† – with many following Paul's example and receiving through prayer.Paul promoted the idea of individual spiritual growth, as proclaimed in his epistles. He compares newcomers to the faith as spiritual babies, but he advises through learning about the Gospel that any believer can g row (â€Å"for we are all one with Christ†). This transformed Christianity as the believer is able t now feel a closer spiritual connection to God – Paul promotes heavenly rewards, but also new spiritual gifts through growth that God lovingly gives. Paul, while teaching that spiritual growth may accompany struggles and sin, also advise d the adherent to â€Å"flee† from sin.In his epistle to the Galatians, Paul refers to the old self – anger, gluttony, jealousy and hatred – as how believers should not act, then describes the Fruit of the Spirit: â€Å"Love, gentleness, meekness, self-control, kindness, joy and peace† as how believers should live. Paul gave examples of the adherent's ideal life, which had a transforming effect on Christianity not because of its content, but because Paul admitted sin was inevitable. Paul accommodated the nature of all individuals but urged the believer to use self-control, to â€Å"make his body a slave† and to try and resist temptation.Paul's words, undeniably, had a profound effect on Christian spirituality and understanding, as well as teaching. Through Paul's teachings of equality and love, his teachings of Jesus' love and God's grace through salvation, Paul revolutionised Christianity for the better and could always use Jesus' preaching’s to support these (a necessity for the faith). Paul himself did not profess to be perfect – â€Å"my body does things I don't want to do† – but spoke always of Jesus' love and forgiveness for all, showing

Changing the Voting Structure essays

Changing the Voting Structure essays As a minority in the United States, Black people start off from a disadvantaged position from birth. Racism, prejudice, and systematic manipulation of economic, social, and educational structures in the United States lead to securing the disadvantaged position that black people maintain. The role and impact of majority rule, single member districts, and Black representation will analyzed in its effects on Black Americans in a watered down Democracy. In contrast solutions such as interest representation, cumulative voting and super majority rules will be discussed and analyzed to interpret what impact they could have on the current system if any. Majority rule is defined as "the proposition that 51% of the people should be able to get whatever they want" (Guinier xvi). Guinier points out several problems with majority rule, which include: a disproportionate distribution of power, voter dilution, and racial polarization within the legislature. These all serve to point out the fact that majority rule is not a just form of rule. Guinier hypothesizes that in order for a rule to be fair, "it must comport with the stability, accountability, and reciprocity assumptions." In light of that, Guinier says, "A system in which a permanent and homogeneous majority consistently exercises disproportionate power is neither stable, accountable, nor reciprocal." Examples of such unjust majority rule would be how certain cities are drawn into districts in order to maximize legislative power. Guinier points out a situation that includes 1000 voters within a ten-seat jurisdiction. Within that jurisdiction the legislature passes laws by a simple m ajority of six votes. If a small minority of like-minded people spread across the 10 seats ban together, they can win a majority in the legislature without having a majority of voters in the popular vote. Is it fair that the minority can rule out the wishes of the majority through trite manipulation of a sys...

Involvement in Iraq Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Involvement in Iraq - Essay Example After US invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan on the premise that the two latter nations were involved in the generation and manufacture of biological weaponry, the US was able to quell international concerns of terrorism brought by the two Middle East countries (Tucker, 2010). However, even after quelling Iraq and Afghanistan’s terrorism threats, the US is still very much mixed up in Iraq and Afghanistan. This paper will question whether or not the US involvement in the two nations is necessary. It is irrefutable that the US invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan has ensured global peace and security. For almost a decade now, American foreign policy has been pegged on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. At the beginning of 2011, there were 50,000 US soldiers in Iraq and 100,000 in Afghanistan. The involvement of the US in both countries is still robust despite the decline of American soldiers compared to previous years (Rashid, 2008). This involvement is entirely uncalled for, and is rather improper. The US should no longer be involved in the affairs of Iraq and Afghanistan, especially because of the cost implication associated with such involvement. In American history, Iraq has been the second most expensive choice of war, after Vietnam in the 1960s (Tucker, 2010). In order to deter the further use of military and economic resources in the two nations, it is pertinent that the US seizes its involvement in the countries. While US troops were expected to leave Iraq by December 2011, several thousand soldiers remained. The main role of the troops has been to advise and train Iraqi police and military forces, as well as conducting antiterrorism missions. After the loss of 4,300 American lives and more than one trillion dollars, it is evidently time for America to cut its losses and accept the positive effects of the war and simply withdraw from Iraq and Afghanistan (Woodward, 2010). War is a costly affair with regard to

Leading a Team in Crisis Situations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Leading a Team in Crisis Situations - Essay Example I chose this topic because of its importance, significance, and relevance in the contemporary age. Everything has changed over the time, and this has had a great impact on the way organizations function. As a leader, the responsibility of adopting the right strategy in these times of change fundamentally rests upon the shoulders of the leader. Change in leadership is inevitable. A leader is frequently exposed to circumstances that generate the need for change. A leader must be intelligent and proactive enough to adapt to these changes and make the wisest decision considering the needs of the changed circumstances. The experiences I have shared in this paper discuss what strategies I have employed to deal with the challenges arising as a consequence of changes that took place, and how those strategies helped me achieve my objectives. Each experience that I have shared demonstrates a different kind of change and accordingly, a different strategy I adopted to lead my team to success. Qu estions that I intend to answer by discussing my personal experiences of change and leadership include but are not limited to; A leader is needed in every organization of any volume, from large corporations to task forces designed to achieve petty tasks. Subordinates look forward to the leader for the establishment of goals and milestones, as well as support, resources, and motivation for their achievement. The behavior of a leader plays a decisive role in the leader’s success. â€Å"The behavior of the leader and the behavior of the group members are inextricably interwoven, and the behavior of both is determined to a great degree by formal requirements imposed by the institution of which the group is a part† (Halpin, n.d., p. 172). There are several conclusions that I can draw from the experience I have shared in the Case I. Firstly, focusing upon making positive advances instead of stopping behaviors is a more effective and useful approach for a leader. Secondly, it is easier for the team to commence actions that accord with their preferred traits. â€Å"Research once again has confirmed wh at we’ve always suspected - your boss can cause you stress, induce depression and anxiety or even trigger the onset of serious illness. It is not just bad managers who can negatively affect employee health, but it is also the lackadaisical and mediocre who can put employees on the sick list† (Williams, 2011). Thirdly, the desired results can be achieved by using different preferred traits in different situations. Behavioral solutions can be customized for different personalities as per their individualistic preferences.