The Pros and Cons of Ecotourism - 2138 Words

The pros and cons of Ecotourism 1. Introduction Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to natural areas that protect the environment and improve the welfare of local people (International Ecotourism Society (TIES), 2005). It also follow certain principles such as minimize impact, build environmental and cultural respect, provide financial benefits to local people (TIES, n.d.). Global ecotourism began in 1990, and has been growing 20-34% per year, especially in 2004, ecotourism was growing globally 3 times faster than the tourism industry as a whole; with continuous growth, and ecotourism will occupy 25% of the world travel market within six years (TIES, 2005). Ecotourism has advantages and disadvantages. It can contribute to a†¦show more content†¦According to the research in Chicanab, Guatemala, the hosting family required to buy foam pads for tourists to sleep on and need to have a slightly separated space for tourists including a table and bed (Bascomb amp; Taylor, 2008). For hotels, environmental alternatives are easily viewed as drop in standards, the hotels have to provide recycled paper, soap dispensers, towel re-usage, and they may cannot satisfying their customers greatly. Another drawback of developing ecotourism is the potential for ‘leakage’, the loss of income from the host country to international investors and foreign-run tour companies (Fennell, 1999; Honey, 1999). This seems that the biggest beneficiary is not the host country but the foreign investors. 3. The impact to Environment. Ecotourism is regarded as responsible tourism in natural areas able to facilitate conservation objectives and able to promote environmentally sustainable development and conservation (Tisdell amp; Wilson, 2005). However, there is also a risk that human activities may harm to the local species. 3.1 The positive impact to environment. The development of ecotourism improved local people and visitors’ environmental awareness. Bascomb and Taylor (2008) claimed that the hosting family in Chicanab, Guatemala, agreed to discontinue slash and burn agriculture, farmers now practice crop rotation and use animalShow MoreRelated Ecotourism in South American Countries Essay3767 Words   |  16 PagesEcotourism in South American Countries Synopsis: We are living in a world that tends to put developed nations against indigenous peoples. Foreign developers seeking cheap labor and natural resources on untouched lands are exploiting cultures that have survived for centuries on their own. South America is a continent that possesses rich indigenous culture that is still relatively untouched by outsiders. Americans have the ability to preserve that heritage through organized efforts to encourageRead MoreMarine Biology Module 3 Review Essay1262 Words   |  6 Pages 21. †¢       Would the depletion of non-renewable resources, burning of fossil fuels, and oil spills have positive or negative effects on the environment? o          Negative 22. †¢       Would beach renourishment, replanting of sea grasses, and ecotourism have positive or negative effects on the environment? o          Positive 23. †¢       Why are seagrasses important to an estuary ecosystem? (list all the reasons) o          sea bottom, provide food and habitat for many marine organisms, maintainRead MoreGeography Exam Review Essay1411 Words   |  6 PagesWhat is sustainable development? What is the global economy? How was it facilitated by European colonialism? What are Multinational Corporations (MNCs)? What is free trade? What are the WTO, World Bank and IMF, and what do they do? What are the pros and cons of free trade? What was the Neolithic Revolution? What are hearths? What is diffusion? What was the Green Revolution? What is carrying capacity? What is democratization, and how is it being facilitated? What is geopolitics? Know the threeRead More Cloning Essay example1310 Words   |  6 Pagesthese clonings have led to much criticism and controversy, but the latest attempt at cloning is that of endangered and possibly already extinct species in hopes of preserving them. This short paper will give a brief description of cloning and the pros and cons of preserving endangered and extinct species via means of cloning. Introduction There are different types of cloning. One type led by researchers at the Human Genome Project entails the copying of genes and parts of chromosomesRead More Tourisms Impact on Australia Essay1984 Words   |  8 Pagesproportions of the national income and at the same time increase employment opportunities. The future is still bright for the industry in the country with possible future growth in expansion and diversification. The industry however has both the pros and cons impacts to various ranges of environments (Tourism Research Australia). Tourism impacts can be generally classified into seven categories with each having both positive and negative impacts. 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The study showed that reintroducing a species back into their natural environment has multi-faceted effects including an effect on the people who would be living with these animals in the near future. As theseRead MoreTourism; a Blessing or Curse1922 Words   |  8 Pagessuch as airplanes, cars, trains. Waste, the reduction of the biodiversity, water- and air-pollution are problems caused by tourism (Page Connell, 2009). An entire tourism sector has been established to reduce those impacts. This sector called ecotourism is the travel to sustainable, delicate and often unaffected destinations. It attempts to have as little impact on the environment as possible by educating the tourist, offering funds for conservation and trying to aid the economic development byRead MoreDevelopment and Globalisation Essay7740 Words   |  31 Pagesof the local culture, politics and economy †¢ Respecting local cultures †¢ Contributing to local cultures and tolerance †¢ Supporting local businesses and traditional values †¢ Use the least amount of local resources Ecotourism †¢ Is one of the fastest growing sectors within tourism †¢ An economic process by which rare and beautiful ecosystems and cultural attractions are marketed internationally to attract tourists †¢ Planning and management is an important

Carnival Cruise Lines Free Essays

Carnival Cruise Lines is a British-American owned cruise line based in the Doral suburb of Miami, Florida (Carnival Cruise Lines, n. d. ). We will write a custom essay sample on Carnival Cruise Lines or any similar topic only for you Order Now The company offers vacations that appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Carnival was founded in 1972 as an independent company by Ted Arison. The cruise line company became known as the world’s most popular cruise line and in 1987 it made an initial public offering of 20 percent of its common stock. The public offering provided the company with an influx of capital that allowed the company to begin expanding through acquisitions. The company formed Carnival Corporation plc in 1994 and Carnival Cruise Lines became its flagship brand (Mission History, 2010). Carnival Corporation has acquired representation in virtually every market segment of the cruise industry. In April 2003, agreements were finalized to combine Carnival Corporation with PO Princess Cruises plc, creating the world’s first global cruise operator. Carnival Corporation plc encompass 12 highly recognizable brands and the company became one of the largest and most profitable leisure travel companies in the world. The company is now one of the 11 individual worldwide cruise ship brands owned and operated by Carnival Corporation plc. The corporation operates 97 ships and Carnival Cruise Lines is its largest and leading brand in North America, based on passengers carried under the Carnival Corporation. Carnival is also the corporation’s most profitable cruise line in the world. The cruise line has 22 ships in operation and two future ships in development. Carnival has 3,800 shore side and 33,500 shipboard employees. *Carnival pioneered the concept of shorter, less expensive cruises. Howard Frank, the chief operating officer of Carnival Cruise Lines, says their ships are called the fun ships because unlike its competitors, Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival offers a wide range of activities on board instead of just delicious cuisine (Beesley, 2010). Frank said their innovative new ships feature popular amenities that meet the increasingly sophisticated desires of all guests yet provide a fun and exciting environment for all ages. Carnival hit record-breaking business so far this year. The bookings for the company were the highest they have ever been because of its new booking system. The earlier in advance a passenger’s cruise is booked the more economical the price. A cruise can cost as low as $175-$200 per person in advance. The cruise line also offers last minute bookings at discount prices. Carnival can be cheaper than airfare without the fear of terrorist attacks, excessive baggage fees, delays and extreme boarding procedures or hassles. In 2009, the corporation revenued $13. 2 billion with a net income of $1. billion, and are projected to make their highest profit ever this year. The company carries a record of 3. 9 million passengers and the up-to-date record is the most in the cruise industry. *Executive control of Carnival Cruise Lines is provided by the North American division of Carnival Corporation in Doral, Florida. Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc, the cruise line, function as a single economic entity. They also function through contractu al agreements between separate legal entities (Investor Relations, 2010). Carnival Corporation common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Carnival plc is traded on the London Stock Exchange and has an ADS on the New York Stock Exchange. Carnival is the only company in the world to be included in both the STP 500 index in the US and the FTSE 100 index in the UK. Carnival Cruise Lines has a hybrid structure divided under Carnival North America, Carnival Australia and Carnival UK. The hybrid structure is under Carnival Cruise Lines which is only one of the brands under Carnival Corporation plc. The corporation doesn’t have a long hierarchy of authority instead it has a few layers of corporate officers and board of directors (Officers, 2010). There are six corporate officers that consist of executive, operating and financial officers, as well as vice presidents of shared services for the multiple brands, general counsel and controller for the corporation. The cruise line only has one executive officer. Gerald R. Cahill is Carnival Cruise Lines’ only president and chief executive officer except for the executives over the Australia and UK divisions. Majority of the company’s employees are shipboard. There is a one-to-three ratio of staff to passenger on every carnival ship, ensuring excellent customer service. Carnival has a horizontal communication amongst the six corporate officers and board of directors. Corporate governance extends from the ship, through the operating lines and senior corporate management to the board of directors. *Carnival is a profitable company and is now the leader in the contemporary cruise sector. The line has launched a $250 million enhancement program on its eight fantasy-class ships. The enhancement will include installation of a water park on board, an adult-only retreat, tropical-themed mid-ship pool area, and other innovative features. Carnival’s former image was a party ship reputation for younger travelers. The cruise line is now known as large, modern and extremely elegant, yet still a profitable and fun line. Historically, Carnival Corporation’s growth has been driven by the expansion of their portfolio of core brands through an aggressive ship building program. Now the brand, Carnival Cruise Lines, competes globally because they invest time, money and effort into product development and wide varieties of amenities on board. The company enhances the excursions offered in port destinations, as well as programs, activities and attractions on the ship. Carnival children programs provide the same level of variety, fun and attraction for their age, as the amenities available to adults. No matter the age, lifestyle or budget the goal is consistent. The cruise line’s goal is to provide everyone with a safe and healthy place to live, work and have fun. Carnival strives to provide an innovative and exceptional vacation experience on land and or at sea (Phillips, 2009). *Last week I sailed on a Carnival Cruise Lines ship to Nassau, Bahamas for a four days and three nights weekend cruise. The Cruise was inexpensive to book for a typical vacation. We were a party of four people and we each only paid around $200 a person in advance. If we would have booked the vacation at the last minute it could have cost each person $300-$400, which is still inexpensive for an all-inclusive cruise. At first you don’t understand how the cruise line makes a profit because almost everything is free except alcohol, soda and excursions. Unlimited food all day and night, shows, the gym, and activities are free. It didn’t take long to realize the company’s strategy on making money. Once Carnival booked the customer at a low price, they up sell the customer with backend products and services that passengers feel are definitely worth spending money on during a vacation. There were additional products and services like an onboard casino, excursions, internet services, and photographers everywhere ready to take memorable pictures to sell. As well as, massages facials, hair treatment, wholesale liquor prices and onboard shops and stores. Carnival provided relaxing services and duty or tax free products. The cruise made lots of money and the marketing cost went down because their exceptional services built loyal customers. The company probably spends more money capturing a customer, maybe even lost money initially on the booking transaction because of the specials and low rates but created lifetime customers in the end. The more products and services a company can offer or sell to a customer, the more valuable they become and the more you can spend on acquiring a customer. Wants you acquire a customer and satisfy their needs, you can gain more from a buying impulse that is pleased and devoted to the company and its brands. How to cite Carnival Cruise Lines, Papers

My Family and Thanksgiving Essay Example For Students

My Family and Thanksgiving Essay Indeed, it’s that time of year again when our family thoughts have turned to Thanksgiving and all the traditions that we have accumulated over the years passed down from one generation to another. Although my sister and I were constantly reminded that every day is a day of gratefulness, we were also taught this particular wonderful holiday brings all family members from near and far together under the same roof to give voice to God’s mercy and grace for what we have received. Most importantly, for me, Thanksgiving symbolizes a time of sharing, fellowship, and communion where we break bread in the same manner as Christ had done with his disciples. We show our love and appreciation for family and extended family because our family bond is the anchor to which we hold on to during times of great stress and troubles. Perhaps, this is why so many people head home for this specific holiday above all others because it is a time to find comfort and joy in the family ties that bind our hearts together as one. Traditions give us a sense of belonging to something sacred and special and for this reason; I am always excited about what happens in my family home on Thanksgiving. However, I also know how much work is involved to making sure that our gathering is as my Mother puts it, â€Å"A good time was had by all. † For many years, my Aunt Ginnie (my Grandfather’s sister) was the one who always hosted Thanksgiving dinner at her home until her health gradually began to fail. Eventually, her daughter, my Aunt Lottie took over the responsibility. Once my Grandfather moved here from Virginia, he felt that my parent’s home was more suitable for such a large gathering of family members. As a result, my parents assumed this honor most certainly to please my Grandfather who now served as the eldest male in our family and of course, no one ever denied his requests when it came to family matters. Although he died 6 years ago, they continue to respect his wishes. So, for my parents, planning for this Thanksgiving festivity starts in mid-October with my parents assigning family members a specific dish to bring for dinner. The menu for our feast consists of macaroni and cheese, cornbread stuffing, collard greens, candied yams, cabbage, string beans, roast beef, potato salad, fresh brewed ice tea, punch, and above all else, my favorites, homemade rolls and desserts. All those who are doing the cooking begin their prep work by shopping early for what they need to avoid being stressed out. For example, my Aunt Lottie picks up her collard greens 2 weeks in advance so that she can have them cleaned and cooked. After she completes these steps, she immediately bags and freezes them so the day before our dinner all she has to do is warm them up. I am so fortunate that the women in my family love to cook because I love to eat! My parents always start the ball rolling by getting a 25 lb. turkey but, it’s prepared and cooked by one of the older women in our family because my Mother says she’ll gain some experience with all that in due time. Decorating the house is my Mother’s favorite thing to do for this holiday. From the front door to every level of our home, there are many decorations that remind me of fall and all the beautiful colors that come this time of year. She likes to use her nicest linen tablecloth, floral arrangements, and candles to make the dining room table her master piece. She especially enjoys making souvenir place settings that each senior family member can take home with them. For example, last year she tied tags labeled with Thanksgiving themes to pumpkin cookie cutters. One tag might have love written on it, yet another would say gratitude. In essence, the dining room is formally set and beautifully decorated. Moreover, as a rule, only the senior members of my family can sit at the table because it is our family tradition to pay tribute to our elders. .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af , .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .postImageUrl , .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af , .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af:hover , .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af:visited , .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af:active { border:0!important; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af:active , .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc288622e10784411f3b3c83ea20b20af:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Melting Pot By Dudley Randall EssayWe generally have 20-30 people. As a matter of fact, one thing I can always count on is my parents inviting people who they know will be alone. Consequently, this can turn into an interesting gathering because every year there are different faces at the table. My Dad always carves the turkey after the blessing, however, he is teaching younger male family members to do it so this family tradition will eventually be passed on to them. Before we are allowed to eat, someone is chosen to bless our food and family. Afterward, I, along with other younger family members, serve our elders. Finally, after they have been served, than the remaining family members may serve themselves. We use the buffet style of serving so everyone can choose what they would like to eat. People are everywhere, eating, talking, laughing, sharing old memories, and remembering what we have to be thankful for. Meanwhile, my cousins and I update each other on what we’ve been doing and making plans to get together. As always, after everyone is overstuffed, the men are ready to stretch out and watch football. No doubt, the women are left to clean up and fix plates to go. My Mother is always prepared for this by stocking up on Styrofoam food containers in contrast to Ginnie who would hand us a paper plate and some aluminum foil. What a mess that was by the time we got home! If there’s a whole left over ham or roast beef that hadn’t been served, it would certainly go to my Aunt Renee who always hosts our Christmas dinner. Aunt Renee starts signing everyone up for what they will bring for her dinner because she says everyone goes brain dead with holiday shopping and she doesn’t feel like calling people to get commitments. We who are non-cooks have to commit to bring something as well. This makes us also responsible for contributing to the success of our dinner. To conclude our festivities, we all take a slip of paper and write down what we are grateful for. Afterwards, each one of us reads what we have written. I call this our â€Å"Amen† time. All the elders speak of how grateful they are to have this time with family because our family grows smaller with the passing of our loved ones. I call this our time of remembrance. In particular, I think about how my Grandfather, â€Å"Pop-Pop†, brought this wonderful gathering of people into my home. I can still see him sitting at the head of the table where my Uncle Jerry sits now. Gradually, we all begin to leave for our homes with large containers of food while giving each other words of love and travelling mercies. Since I’ve become an adult, I am most grateful for the gift of family and traditions because I know that I am a part of something greater than myself.

Living in the city VS. Living at the countryside free essay sample

A lot of people discuss if it is better to live in the city or to live in the countryside. Here are some arguments for living in the city and living in the countryside: When thinking of transportation it is better to live in a city. There you’ve got a lot of public transports. But also in regards to jobs it’s easier to live in the city. You have a bigger variety of different jobs and you usually don’t need so much time to work with your car or you can use taxis or public transports. Another positive thing is that you have a lot of more shops and facilities in a city. There are also more different kinds of schools and universities. The social life is also an important point. In the city you have got a lot more cinemas, restaurants, clubs and events where you can meet new people. We will write a custom essay sample on Living in the city VS. Living at the countryside or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page In the countryside live a lot of families with their children because the houses there are bigger and they usually have got gardens and houses in the countryside are cheaper. It is a fact that there isn’t so much traffic  and industries. This is why it is healthier to live in the countryside. There is also a lot of unspoiled nature where you can do outdoor sports like mountain biking, hiking or swimming. When thinking of schools you’ve got more individual teaching because the schools are smaller. But another important point is that you know the people better and so you have better relationships with doctors, waiters, neighbours, etc. But finally should everybody decide for themselves where it’s better to live.

Definition and Examples of Common Case in English

Definition and Examples of Common Case in English In English grammar, common case is the ordinary base form of a noun- such as a cat, moon, house. Nouns in English have only one case inflection: the possessive (or genitive). The case of nouns other than the possessive is regarded as the common case. (In English, the forms of the subjective [or nominative] case and the objective [or accusative] case are identical.) See Examples and Observations below. Also, see: CaseInflectionNotes on Nouns Examples and Observations The one thing that doesnt abide by majority rule is a persons conscience.(Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird, 1960)A mans character may be learned from the adjectives which he habitually uses in conversation.(Mark Twain)Peoples backyards are much more interesting than their front gardens, and houses that back on to railways are public benefactors.(John Betjeman)Common Case and Possessive CaseNouns such as man inflect not only for number but also for the distinction between genitive case and common case. The uninflected form man is in the common case. By contrast, in the mans hat, mans is said to be in the genitive (or possessive) case. The term case is a traditional term in the description of classical languages, where it is a topic of much greater complexity than it is in English. For instance, in Latin, there are as many as six different case distinctions for nouns. English nouns have very little variability of this kind; we must guard against attributing to English nouns as many ca ses as there are for Latin ones.(David J. Young, Introducing English Grammar. Hutchinson Education, 1984) The Vanished Case[A]ll nouns are said to be in the common case- the grammarians way of pronouncing them caseless. His common means that the one form serves every possible use- subject, object of verb, indirect object, object of preposition, predicate complement, appositive, vocative, and even interjection. The grammarian is in effect asserting that case, except as it survives vestigially in a few pronouns, has disappeared from English. . . .Common case describes nothing and analyzes nothing. But grammar is essentially analytic; it names things not for the fun of having a nomenclature but so as to understand the relations of working parts. One can analyze an English sentence without using the word case; what matters is to know that a given word is subject or object, and of what it is the one or the other.(Wilson Follett, Modern American Usage, revised by Erik Wensberg. Hill and Wang, 1998)

A Detailed Guide On Making Atole

A Detailed Guide On Making Atole How to make Atole It was a cold day during winter break, and I was trying to catch up on my favourite show Pretty Little Liars. I was sitting in the living room and then a hot milky scent wafting from the kitchen hit me. I remember thinking that there was nothing better than a hot drink for this cold weather. I was very excited and headed straight for the kitchen. Hands holding on the edge of the doorway, peeping my head into the room, I saw my host mother making a hot beverage, and she offered me some. At first, I only tried a little bit, but then I had another sip, another one, and another one, until everything was gone. At that moment, I realized how much I liked the drink and that I would definitely need it to survive the upcoming winter days. I later found out that it was a Mexican drink called Atole. Since I was only able to enjoy the drink if someone made it for me, I decided to learn how to make it myself, which turned out to be relatively easy. There are two main stages to make this drink; th ey are buying the ingredients and then combining them to make the beverage. Before going into the instructions, it might beneficial to learn some background information about Atole. Atole is a traditional Mexican drink originating from pre-Columbian time and usually served at Dias de los muertos celebrations, which is translated as â€Å"Day of the Dead†. In Mexico, the hot thickened drink is typically made with cornmeal, water, raw sugar cane, cinnamon, and vanilla. It can also be served for breakfast on regular days or as a drink in the afternoon and late evening in place of tea, hot chocolate or coffee. With different brands, there is a wide variety of Atole flavors to choose from such as walnut, coconut, strawberry, guava, and chocolate. The only brand I had was Klass, but then I like the drink so much that I tried all their flavors and found out that walnut Atole is my favourite, which I would highly recommend to anyone. To make Klass Atole, I have to buy a package of Atole powder. Klass Atole can be found easily in grocery stores in South Texas or Northern Mexico; however, since I do not live there anymore, I have to order them online and sometimes they do not even have walnut flavor. Other than the package, the main materials needed for the process are sugar, milk, a medium-size saucepan or stockpot, a ladle, a glass or a mug, a table spoon, and measuring cups. After gathering all the materials and ingredients, all I had to do was to follow the recipe and the drink would be ready in less than half an hour. First, I put five cups of milk into a saucepan or a stockpot. After, I put the saucepan of milk on the stove on medium-high heat until the milk started to boil, which often took ten minutes. Third, while waiting for the milk to boil, I put one cup of milk into a glass or a mug and poured the entire Atole package into the container and stirred the mixture. Next, when the milk started to boil, I turned down the fire to low heat, poured the mixture into the saucepan and stirred it for one minute. Soon, I stirred about five to eight table spoons of sugar into the drink. Finally, I turned off the stove and poured out the drink into a mug and it was ready to serve. I suggest enjoying the drink with a spoon to make it easier to drink when it is still hot and delicious. As an international student who has traveled and tried new things in different parts of the United States, I have come to love Atole. I have not mastered and tried new things with Atole yet, but I am hoping to get better and better at it. It will always be a pleasure for me to introduce this appetizing drink to people all around the world.

The Influence of Technology on Contemporary Photographic Media Essay

The Influence of Technology on Contemporary Photographic Media Practice - Essay Example The emergence of such technologies as laptops, cell phones and digital cameras transforms the nature of media practices and opens new possibilities for 'citizen journalism' (Gillmor 2006). An average citizen receives a chance to publish unique videos and photographs on line neglecting strict censorship rules and privacy concerns. The problem is that "the production values of the image are hardly professional. What does matter is the utter authenticity of the image, made so by the fact that the man was there at the right time with the right media-creation gear" (Gillmor 2006). Following Bowman and Willis, people are not passive consumers at the mercy of technological instruments but active users of different technologies and mediums. Just because the average television is switched on for several hours a day does not mean it is being avidly watched (Peterson 87). Gillmor (2006) and Bowman and Willis (2003) call this process 'we media' underlining an increasing role of citizens in news creations. "Everything from eyewitness accounts and photo galleries to commentary and personal storytelling emerged to help people collectively grasp the confusion, anger and loss felt in the wake of the tragedy" (Bowman and Willis 7-8). Individual sites and blogs tend to focus on what a person wants to tell the visitor rather than responding to the visitor's requirements. Typical of this category is a focus on the way in which the blog is structured, photographic facilities and details. Audience-centric sites reflect the fact that many types of visitor will use the site and that their needs may be very different. A brief visit to a site of this type will give a clear picture of why it was constructed and which audiences are being targeted. Rosenblum (1997) underlines that new technologies allow an average citizen to manipulation public opinion and produce fals e images of news and public figures. This can lead to negative perception of journalism and photography in general (Peterson 87). Technology such as the video machine can also allow audiences to take more control over their viewing practices and shared video-watching can be used as a social event in itself. It can also be a way of gaining access to cultural resources unavailable on mainstream programming (or only shown unsociably late at night). Following Bowman and Willis (2003) "From a participatory journalism perspective, P2P [person-to-person] has enormous potential to distribute the content created by digital amateurs. One example is the recent emergence of P2P photo-sharing software programs" (31). Thus, interest in the use of media technologies and the process of consumption also opens up new questions about power, not the power of the media per se, but the social power structures within which consumption is embedded (Rosenblum 569). Web blogs and web sites are designed to gain a tangible advantage. While the nature of the WWW site gives an insight into the way the audience intends to use the Internet i t is only a snapshot of how far the strategy has evolved. The visual attractiveness of the site will still be important but the main concentration is on the quality of the content and facilities it provides (Peterson 87). The other problem is many amateurs do not want to be paid sharing unique images and photos for

The religious aspect of young goodman brown Research Paper

The religious aspect of young goodman brown - Research Paper Example The story of Brown alerts one to the dangers that are inherent in the puritan life that stifles the creativity of man and the only recourse that his imagination has is to resurface in his dreams where they display an unhealthy tendency to distort the boundaries between reality and illusion. Much of the analysis of this short story has followed the contributions of psychoanalysis to our understanding of the nature of dreams and the repressed. They have helped in the understanding of the story as one that critiques the excessive control of religion over the life of an individual. Hawthorne’s critique is leveled against the religious fervor that the puritan establishments of New England, where the story is set, has displayed, since the migration of people from England to America in search of a new colony to create a land that would be a model to the rest of the planet in their adherence to Christian ideals. Hawthorne deals not only with Christian ideas but also with the prejudice s that Christian settlers had regarding Native American religion and rituals. Relegated to the margins of the white settlements, these original inhabitants of America are labeled as the friends of the devil. Hawthorne’s story of Goodman Brown manages to have some sympathy for the condition of the Native Americans but is guilty on many an occasion of referring to the devil and the powwow in the same breath. But then, the entire story revolves around a recognition of the fact that everybody is a sinner, at least in the mind. Hawthorne sets his story in the forest near the village of Salem. The forest, according to Reginald Cook, is set in opposition to the house which represents the outward appearance of the man and his spotless reputation. The forest on the other hand, abounds in â€Å"demonic presences† and â€Å"ancestral spirits† that represent elements of pagan religions that are set in opposition to the Christian atmosphere of the house and the village (Cook ). It is implicit that civilization is necessarily Christian and the absence of Christianity means an absence of a civilized ethos. This amounts to a rejection of extremely complex religious beliefs that other cultures, including Native American civilizations, had. This was a very important aspect of the puritan establishment which used religion as a cover for the imperial designs of Britain. By belittling the beliefs of a certain civilization and setting oneself as the person who needs to introduce civilization in a particular place, one fails to incorporate in one’s way of living, which is what religion essentially is, the beliefs of anther community that may serve to enhance the quality of one’s life. Brown, as well as critics of Young Goodman Brown is often guilty of mistaking appearance with reality, says David Levin in his essay, Shadows of Doubt: Specters of Evidence in Hawthorne’s â€Å"Young Goodman Brown† (Levin). The appearance of the devil may be connected to the real devil, since there are enough indications to that effect. However, other characters can merely be a figment of the imagination of the character in the story. In any case, there is a great deal of ambiguity regarding the fact as to whether the events in the story are real or an illusion. The illusionary nature of the events may be interpreted as a dream or as an imagined

The Song of Roland Essay Example for Free

The Song of Roland Essay Count Roland was the epitome of everything a Carolingian knight should be. He was virtuous in every possible way. Bravery, piety, modesty, strength, and ability are all adjectives that aptly describe Sir Roland. In the work The Song of Roland a portrayal of 8th Century warfare and practices are given to the reader. We see a world were values such as loyalty, friendship, and piety co-exist with values such as ferocity in combat, eagerness to kill infidels, and lionizing of the sacking of cities and looting of the dead. What could bring about such opposing values into one moral code? Perhaps the system of values existing in 8th Century Frankish society is a combination of moral systems. Frankish knights of the Carolingian Era adhered to a strict moral code that drew many values from Christian doctrine, but also drew heavily from the moral system of a warlike barbarian people; such as the early Frankish tribes as portrayed in History of the Franks by Gregory the Bishop of Tours. During the time of Clovis I Christianity was just beginning as the state religion of the Franks. In Gregorys depiction of the Frankish people following the death of Clovis I, he shows a society were murder, incest and the killing of ones own son is perfectly acceptable. Treachery and ambush are expunged as virtues befitting a great ruler. The only mentions of Christianity in the text seem to be purposely placed there by Gregory. While the Franks claim to be Christian at this time they clearly do not understand the moral code that goes along with their Christian faith. Understanding of that Christian faith comes at a later time. Loyalty in particular seems to be a central virtue of Carolingian knights. Roland says once, It is fitting we should stay here for our king; a man should suffer hardships for his lord, and persevere in heat and cold; a man should lose if need be, hide and hair (Roland 83). This attitude of sacrifice for your lord, and loyalty unto death is very different from the attitude of the early Franks. In Gregorys account Frankish warriors care more for booty than loyalty. Theodoric knew that the men of Clermont-Ferrand were ready to betray him. Follow me, said he to his people, and I will lead you to a land where you will be able to lay your hands on so much gold and silver than even your desire for loot will be satisfied (Gregory 6). Roland and his twelve companions were ready to die for the honor of their king, while the men of Clermont-Ferrand fought only for the promise of booty. This ideal of loyalty and faithfulness can only have come from the influence of the Catholic Church. Piety is clearly very important to the Carolingian knight. Before their deaths many of the twelve companions seek penance and absolution so that they may enter Heaven. Roland begs Gods mercy as he dies saying, True Father, who hath never told a lie, Who resurrected Lazarus from the dead, and Who protected Daniel from the lions, protect the soul in me from every peril brought on by wrongs Ive done throughout my life! (Roland 124). This statement shows Rolands understanding of Christian doctrine. He comprehends the need for absolution in order to attain paradise, and he clearly has a thorough understanding and knowledge of scripture, as he quotes from the Bible in numerous places. During and following the time of Clovis I the Franks understanding of piety was simple. If you were pious, you won battles, if you werent, you lost. Gregory said in regard to successes, they have come to Christians who confess the blessed Trinity and ruin has come to heretics who have tried the same. (Gregory 1) So on the battlefield is were you proved your piousness, not in your life or during prayer. This is clearly a gross misunderstanding of Christian doctrine by the early Franks. Ferocity in combat is perhaps one of the most important characteristics of a Frankish knight. It co-exists with loyalty, friendship and piety, all Christian virtues. Roland who is the epitome of the Carolingian knight is the fiercest warrior of them all. His ability is thus described, the baron goes ands strikes with all his force upon the jewel-studded golden casque, cuts downward through the head, the trunk and the byrnie, the well-made saddle set with gems and gold, and deep into the backbone of the horse (Roland 100). This cleaving of a man in two is not deemed tragic or saddening as one would expect from a Christian society, instead it is raised up as an example of a good Christian activity. Killing infidels is never sinful. Indeed even the Archbishop himself engages in such activity, But Turpin strikes He spits his body (the Spaniards) through from side to side and throws him dead upon an open spot. (Roland 98) Even though many Christian ideals have sunk into Frankish society, the warlike nature of the Franks still endures during the Carolingian age. Sacking towns and acquiring plunder are not the chief motivation for warfare, as they were during early Frankish history, but these activities are still very central to warfare in the Carolingian age. Following the retreat of the Spanish Charles knights loot the bodies of the dead enemy knights even before pursuing the retreating enemy (Roland 126). Many mentions are made of the numerous towns that Roland had sacked prior to this story. The fact that Roland had killed thousands of innocents and burned hundreds of homes is not used to criticize Roland, instead it is used as an example of his prowess as a warrior. This attitude toward random slaughter and plunder is clearly not inline with Christian morals. Its origins must instead be from early Frankish society. When Christianity first entered Frankish society it was merely a new version of paganism for the Franks who practiced it. They viewed the Christian god as more powerful than other pagan deities, and so they converted to Christianity. At no point though did they embrace the moral code of Catholicism. However, later under Charlemagne the missionaries had mostly finished their work of educating the Franks. The knights portrayed in The Song of Roland clearly understand the morals of piety, honesty, loyalty and friendship. They also demonstrated a thorough knowledge of Christian doctrine and scripture. Even though the Carolingian knights were more Christian, certainly than the Franks of the 6th Century, they were still not totally inline with true Christian morals. Slaughter, plundering and mortal combat were still held in high esteem during the Carolingian era. These barbaric ideals still existed in Frankish society, despite the efforts of Christian missionaries. Clearly the moral code of the Carolingian knight was a combination of Christian values, and the value system of the early Frankish tribes.

The Lack Of Women in Arizona Politics, Specifically the United States Congress :: Essays Papers

The Lack Of Women in Arizona Politics, Specifically the United States Congress Arizona has been referred to as the "state of the woman" in recent literature. Last year, the state made history when it became the first to elect females to all top five executive positions of the state, see Jimena Valdes' essay. These elections indicate that women have gained much equality in Arizona politics based on their state success. However, if one is to study the representation of Arizona women in national politics, it is apparent that there is still a definite lack of woman in this area of politics. Currently, there are no women representing Arizona in the United States Congress, and there have only ever been two, Isabella Greenway and Karan English. This essay discusses the reasons behind this misrepresentation of woman in Arizona national politics; such as economic inequality, the lack of support from well-known male politicians, strong family bias, which has been a result of the powerful Republican political force that exists in Arizona, and the alienation of wome n when they are finally elected to the United States Congress. I: Isabella Selmes Greenway: Socialite and Businesswoman Isabella Greenway was the first Arizona congresswoman, and unlike many other woman of her time, she had strong political support from the first family, which was the main reason behind her nomination to Congress in 1933. Isabella Greenway first entered politics as a supporter of Franklin Roosevelt, who became a very close friend as a result of Greenway’s long relationship with his wife (Office 1). This of course was an extremely important step in her establishment of a political career. Because of her close friendship with the first family, Isabella Greenway had every opportunity to watch Franklin Roosevelt in his political career, and then use her acquired knowledge to move into a political career of her own, in the Democratic party. This was a unique opportunity, and there is no doubt that she would not have entered into politics if there had not been this friendship between her and the Roosevelts. In Greenway’s lifetime, female politicians were an extremely r are species, and it was only because of this strong political backing from the first family, that she became the first Arizona Congresswoman. Isabella Greenway’s nomination also came as a result of her wealth, which was also a unique property for a woman living in her time, and would not have come about if her two rich husband’s had not died.

Illinois and Audience Essay

In the start of President Obama’s speech, he starts out by using the term Anaphora†Hello, Colorado! (Applause.) Thank you! Are you fired up? Are you ready to go? (Applause.) Are you fired up?† This helps him to get the audience ready for his speech, and it creates a good atmosphere which also helps him to make a great speech In his speech Barak Obama uses a lot of pathos laden phrases to help him engage his audience and persuade them to agree with him. We see this in his speech when he introduces some good friends â€Å"We’ve got some good friends here today. You’ve got your outstanding governor, John Hickenlooper†¦And all of you are here, which makes me excited.†This is an example of pathos because, Barak Obama appeals to the audience emotions by referring to other important political people who is from Denver, and by finishing up his sentence by saying that the audience makes him exited. By evoking this sentiment in his audience, Obama manages to get the audience going, and ready to hear more of what Obama has to say. Which is a very important why to start off, because then he knows that the audience is listing to him. We also see this in his speech when he starts to talk about Romney’s politics† It turns out it’s not a five-point plan Governor Romney has got, it’s a one-point plan†¦ And we’ve been working for four years to clean up this mess that these policies left behind.†This is an example of pathos because, when Obama talks about Governor Romney’s politics he tries to connect to the audience emotion, and he also tries to convince them that his politics is the right one. Obama thereby achieves to get his audience to agree with him, when he criticizes Governor Romney’s politics. He succeeds in doing it, when he tells about that Romney has a five point plan, when it’s only a one which they already tr ied before Obama took office. And that plan took America into the worst economic crises since the Great Depression. In his speech Obama uses logos by appealing to the audience sense. We see this in his speech when he talks about voting† Don’t boo — vote. (Applause.) Vote. That’s the way to show your opinion, is to vote† This is a clear example of logos because he clearly appeals to the sense of the audience. By appealing to the sense of the audience, Obama succeeds in getting his message out; that it is important that you vote, instead of just complaining about the other parties view. He is telling that the only way you can get your opinion out, is to vote. A little later in Obama’s speech, he appeals to the audience sense again, we see this in his speech when he talks about the symptoms of romnesia, and tells what the cure is.†But, Denver, I want you to know this: If you feel any symptoms coming on†¦ There’s a cure, Colorado, as long as you vote. (Applaus e.) There’s a cure.† This is an example of logos because; Obama is again appealing to the audience sense that they need to vote for him. By appealing to the audience Obama achieves, to make sure that they know that he is the cure for Romnesia. By the word Romnesia, Obama uses the term pun; this helps him to create a negative feeling of the work, when you compare it to his own healthcare package â€Å"Obamacare†, with this term he also uses a pun just in a positive way, which creates a good feeling about the word. But the most important part of this quote is, that he makes sure that the audience, see him as the cure. You can say that he is using logos and pathos in this quote, because he is also trying to reach out after the audience emotions. During president Obama’s speech he uses a lot of different terms, the two I have concentrated about is pathos and logos. I find these two terms very important, because it helps him construct a good flowing speech, while he also gets the audience or the ones watching it in TV to agree with him, that’s how he uses pathos. For the once who isn’t sure of what they are going to vote or if they are going to vote, here he uses logos to reach out to the sense audience and tries to help them decide on voting for him.

Black Masculinity Essay

What is an ethnic group? An ethnic group is a human population whose members identify with each other, usually on the basis of a presumed common genealogy or ancestry . These ethnic groups are usually united by shared cultural values, common fields of communication, or religious practices. So perhaps the theory of Black masculinity can be considered an ethnic group. There is the obvious factors of being ‘Black’ and ‘male’ that connects these members in this group; they have skin color and gender in common. Perhaps this cultural group has come together to be more then just a group who have race and gender in common. It goes beyond that and Black masculinity has members who are not ‘Black’. Perhaps this questions if history, ancestry, and genealogy are factored in when becoming a members of a group. But will these members be truly accepted in the cult of Black masculinity. Within the dominant culture African American men have developed their own sense of identity. These men have integrated themselves into American society creating a culture of their own. They have established a language, a sense of dress, and behaviors. These protocols help this group of men emphasize their ethnicity and gender. Members of this group who follow these traits are considered to be part of the cult of Black masculinity. What is happening is that white men, because of the influence of pop culture, are permeating the boundaries of the Black masculine cult. This is an experience of somewhat reverse assimilation. At first it was the assimilation of the Black man into the white man’s world and now it is as if roles are reversed. How the white men see the Black masculinity portrayed through the media and want to be part of it. Anthropologist Fredrik Barth specifies three conditions under which ethnic groups develop and define themselves: (a) a dominant culture is present with the power to maintain conditions whereby other groups of people, (b) are stereotyped, and (c) are constrained to certain roles that function complementarily in the general culture. Barth argues that ethnic distinctions are born out of conflict . The above conditions are necessary for the maintenance of ethnic distinctions. So, the maintenance of ethnic diversity requires domination by one group of the rest. Using Barth’s definition of what an ethnic group is and which boundaries are defined by these rules this paper will prove how Black masculinity conforms to these guidelines establishing them as an ethnic group within the dominant culture. This paper will also explore the difference that is expressed by black males in American culture through the use of language, dress and behavior. The cult of Black masculinity will prove that ethnic groups can create something of their own while inventing a new culture in which they can partake in and be control of. Black Masculinity â€Å"A particular type of black masculinity–one defined mainly by an urban aesthetic, a nihilistic attitude, and an aggressive posturing–has made its way into the cultural mainstream in the last two decades. † There are many contributing factors but the image of Black masculinity has come about due to the popularization of hip-hop culture and the prominence of rap music and the â€Å"videomercials† that sell it. More specifically, it is the result of the popularity of the urban â€Å"gangsta† and his embodiment in the â€Å"gangsta† rap of artists such as Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Snoop Doggy Dogg, and Tupak Shakur. Black masculinity is the attempt for black males to incorporate what the dominant culture believes to be masculine. Most studies have, however regarded Black Masculinity as an alternative to social status, rather than as an extension of it. ‘Black Macho’ has been portrayed, therefore, as differing in kind rather than degree from the wider gendered power relations within Society at large†¦ It is however; only within the context of wider power relations — and as an extension of them –that Black masculinity can be fully understood†¦ Black masculinity is then perhaps best understood as an articulated response to structural inequality, enacting and subverting dominant definitions of power and control, rather then substituting for them. Rather than a hostile and withdrawn entity [black masculinity] can be seen as a base for interaction and negotiation with wider society . These men have taken an idea which already exists according to society and incorporated what they believe is their definition of masculinity. This expression of masculinity, according to Mercer and Julien: â€Å"subjectively incorporates attributes associated with dominant definitions of manhood – such as being tough, in control, independent – in order to recuperate some degree of power or active influence over objective conditions of powerlessness created by racism. † Black masculinity embraces the stereotypical role of what a Black man typically resembles. What the dominant culture portrays: the tough guy, more body then mind. This is received as negative because they are not achieving what the ideal is, what â€Å"Whiteness† is. So would this group of men be considered an ethnic group within the American society? According to Barth an ethnic group embodies the following: â€Å"Largely biologically self-perpetuating, shares fundamental cultural values, realized in overt unity in cultural forms, makes up a field of communication and interaction, has a membership which identifies itself, and is identified by others, as constituting a category distinguishable from other categories of the same order. † Those who choose to conform to these norms of this group will reject or discriminate against others and this leads to the inclusion of this specific group. Behavior How one behaves will determine what group they will fit into. These behaviors include how one dresses, acts and talks. Black masculinity has their own sense of dress, actions and even language. Depicted through the media the Black masculine male will dress â€Å"gangster†. There stereotyped baggie jeans and big t-shirts with the jewelry and baseball caps. This reinforces the hyper-sexualized stereotyped male in society. Recently, Richard G. Major’s concept of the â€Å"cool pose† has proved an insightful term for understanding the dynamics of black masculinity as it has developed in response to unequal conditions in the modern urban environment. In a series of closely related works (listed at the end of this essay), Majors argues that black males have accepted the traditional values of masculinity but are so restricted by social and political factors that many of them have been deeply frustrated by their inability to enact these traditional masculine roles. â€Å"In brief,† Majors explains, â€Å"cool pose originated as a coping mechanism for the ‘invisibility,’ frustration, discrimination, and educational and employment inequities faced by Black males. In response to these obstacles, many of these individuals have channeled their creative talents and energies into the construction of masculine symbols and into the use of conspicuous nonverbal behaviors (e. g. , demeanors, gestures, clothing, hairstyles, walks, stances and handshakes)† . Majors includes in his examples of the cool pose such diverse behaviors as the use of humor, feigned emotional detachment, and specific stylistic expressions like the black athlete’s inventive basketball dunking, football spiking, and end zone dancing, as well as black musical performers’ aggressive posing and graceful yet strenuous dancing styles. A prime ingredient of the cool pose as a compensatory form of masculinity is an exaggerated style of toughness: â€Å"Symbolic displays of toughness defend his identity and gain him respect; they can also promote camaraderie and solidarity among black males† . Unfortunately, as Majors is careful to point out, the ritualized hyper masculinity performed by many black men as a cool pose, particularly the preoccupation with enacting a tough persona is rife with the negative potential to promote dangerous lifestyles (e. g. , gang bangers, tough guys, drug dealers, street hustlers, and pimps) and to reinforce harmful stereotypes. These images illuminate the figure of the menacing Black male. He embodies images of the black heterosexual rapper, athlete, and movie star which challenge the racist depictions of black masculinity as incompetent, oversexed and uncivil, in the end a threat to middle class notions of womanhood, family and nation . Perhaps with these embodiments this is why Black masculinity is its own ethnic group. They were unable to assimilate into the dominant culture because they were seen as a hyper sexualized threat to white women. This left these men to create something of their own, through dress, language and action. This group uses language as another expression of social difference. African American Vernacular English is the language that is used to communicate, it is also known as Black English, Black Vernacular, or Black English Vernacular. Black English is also known as Ebonics, a combination of â€Å"ebony† and â€Å"phonics†, this language is spoken by many Blacks in the United States and around the world. Black masculinity has accepted Ebonics as their language because it is something that is unique to the African American culture. The problem with this form of communication is that it is not widely accepted within the dominant society. The children who are raised by men who are part of this cult of Black masculinity are told to speak differently because the form of communication that they have learned is not acceptable. This is a miscommunication and some parties tried to get Ebonics recognized as a language and to be taught in the school systems. This law was not passed but it was interpreted and they are now teaching the children how to translate African American Vernacular English into American Standard English. Jackson sees language as â€Å"badges and emblems of identity can be seen as a kind of message, the successful transmission, reception, and decoding of which necessary to the interaction is taking place. † This is why Black masculinity is as strong as it is because it embraces their own language and through this they are able to maintain relationships with others in this group of men. Such as the word â€Å"Nigga†, if this word were used by someone outside of this cultural group then they would be considered racist but through music and use within the group it is considered to be a term used to identify each other. It would be seen as odd if someone who did not embody Black masculinity started speaking in African American Vernacular English because they may not have the ancestry which allows them to embody Black Masculinity and their language. Boundaries To form a cultural boundary it is presumed that the borders would be between different homelands, ethnicities, religions or language groups. In the case of Black masculinity the majority are situated all over North America and the rest of the world. With such a diverse spread it would be hard to place physical borders on this group. â€Å"Ethnic groups are not merely or necessarily based on the occupation of exclusive territories; and the different ways in which they are maintained, not only by once-and-for-all recruitment but by continual expression and validation†¦Ã¢â‚¬  In saying this, those who partake in the cult of Black masculinity erect borders through communication such as language and body language. Those who do not respond to these actions are not considered to be part Black male society. There is certain protocol which will be followed within the group and if this is not followed then there is the identification of an outsider who is trying to break through the borders. The problem with Black masculinity and the exclusivity of this culture is that it is widely available in pop culture. It would be easy for someone who is not part of this ethnic group to study the mass media and learn the traits which define Black masculinity. Black masculinity is based on ascription how people identify their culture and how they identify themselves within this culture. Their boundaries are socially constructed. Ethnic groups share common culture which includes shared religion, language, style of dress, housing, shared customs; attitudes, beliefs and most have the same perception of a common past. As discussed earlier this group embraces a shared common culture which separates them from the dominant culture. They have created themselves due to a particular historical circumstance and in this case it is colonization and the invasion of the White man. The identity of Black masculinity is reliant on how individuals embrace it, constrained by it; act on it and through this Black masculinity will have a separate identity as an ethnic group. To separate themselves they have must be able to distinguish them from the dominant culture by â€Å"creating appearance of cultural discontinuity†. Black masculinity has done this by assuming roles such as the gangster rapper, the black athlete or movie star. By creating these identities they are constructing a boundary between â€Å"us† and â€Å"them†. Overtime groups tend to become culturally more homogenous. This endangers the boundary and makes it harder to maintain but in order to preserve its distinct identity these boundaries need to be maintained by the group. Boundary maintenance serves to isolate the group from alternative value systems (according to which its members may find themselves ranked differently), preserves the group’s existing internal power structure, and provides a potential source of political power for the group through solidarity and numbers . Black masculinity is a strong force in the media and to follow what their cultural beliefs are would be easy. They have familiarized their culture with the dominant culture allowing anyone to be able to participate in their beliefs. This weakens their borders and makes it harder to maintain a stronghold at their borders. The only thing that would not be broken within Black masculinity is in the name. To be a true part of this ethnic group one would have to be a Black male. This is the only thing that will hold true to maintain the borders of Black masculinity. Biologically Self Perpetuating Black masculinity has become such a widely known phenomenon and even those who do not share the same ancestry seem to be able to embody traits of this group. Traditionally an ethnic group would share a common background and kin. Through the use of mass media the cult of the Black male has become highly sexualized and those who see this machismo want to be part of it. Ethnic groups are primarily endogamous and this new assimilation into their group will cause problems with this. This is a problem because it takes away from the power of what this group stands for and what they embody as the macho man. â€Å"In a social order where white beliefs form fundamental explanations of how individuals should enact their color-sex positions and associated role expectations, black males do not, regardless of their economic status or intellectual capabilities, have the cultural prerogative to take the initiative. † This quote redefines that there is a dominant culture and allowing assimilation this group is allowing the power to be taken away. As these men are portrayed as hyper sexualized in the media it introduces them to something that the dominant culture views as the ideal, this goes back to colonization and the want of what the White man has, the unattainable. â€Å"A major reason for the initial encounter was the mystique attached to the hitherto unavailable ‘the white goddess’ † . This â€Å"white goddess†, the unavailable, is the difference between the dominant culture and the Black Masculinity. Black men move between majority and minority cultures and must negotiate the racism and discrimination that accompany caste-like minority status. Frazier suggests that Black masculinity and male role identity must be viewed in these varying social and cultural contexts . Specifically, Black men are expected to conform to dominant gender role expectations (e. g. , to be successful, competitive, aggressive), as well as meeting culturally specific requirements (e. g. , cooperation, promotion of group, and survival of group) of the Black community. â€Å"certain patriarchal values such as physical strength, sexual prowess and being in control as a means of survival against the repressive and violent system of subordination to which they were subjected† . The dehumanizing aspect of this myth, a myth that Mercer claims many black men do not want demystified because it in some ways (e. g. , strength, sexual prowess) raises them above the status of white men, is that, while an emphasis on the body as brute force is a marker of the difference between male and female, it is also a key symbol in the division between nature and culture. Perhaps this is why Black masculinity came to be. It is argued that the members of the Black Power movement defined the politics of race within â€Å"metaphoric of phallic power,† which developed out of male activists’ desires to counter cultural articulations of black male inferiority , and that this is readily seen in the writings of influential figures such as Malcolm X, Huey Newton, Eldridge Clever, and Amiri Baraka. Wiegman further claims that the phallocentric perspective was also articulated through the macho, hyper masculine characters appearing in the blaxploitation films of the early 1970s. It is through Wiegman’s phallic theories about Black males that this ethnic group created the term and culture of Black masculinity. Conclusion Through Barth this paper has been able to discuss the boundaries which the ethnic group Black masculinity was able to control. They were able to create their own ethnic group in response to the dominant culture. They defined themselves through being Black males. They embodied what it meant to be. They did this by dress and action. This is recently obvious through the media and ‘gangta’ rap and perhaps with this embodiment they are able to prove that they are able to exist as a powerful force within the dominant culture. Black masculinity members are able to have their own sense of language whether it be verbal, Ebonics, of physical, â€Å"cool pose†. This is how they established members of the group and were able to communicate with each other by these means. They reinforced that the â€Å"cool pose† displays toughness and it gains him respect and from this it promotes solidarity within the group of Black males. The â€Å"cool pose† is not always a good thing. In the media the dominant society does not see the athlete but the gangster and the stereotype which is created by the dominant culture. They are seen as a threat and to keep them safe Black masculinity was created in an attempt to create values and rules of their own in order to obtain status in a dominant culture. To keep this group exclusive these Black men created a language of their own and through this they communicate and they are able to maintain a strong bond through these means of communication. Through the use of language they create borders. The borders which they created allow them to maintain who they are without being assimilated into the dominant culture. They have embraced and emphasized who they are and what they stand for. To protect this they erected borders such as similar dress/style, language, sense of history and shared customs. These aspects are unique to them but as popular culture embraced these aspects such as language and dress the borders began to break. One thing that the dominant culture could not break is their gender and race. They were African American men and no matter what the dominant culture did to try and assimilate them they had this to celebrate. This is important to maintain the strength of your borders. Black masculinity is a group of Black males who have been able to preserve that they are part of an ethnic group and they have history which needs to be respected. They are trying to sustain a culture that is slowly being integrated into the dominant culture. If this group follows what Barth has laid out in order to maintain boundaries then Black masculinity will be able to be whomever they want within the dominant culture. REFERENCES Alexander, C. The Art of Being Black. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1996. Barths, F. Ethnic Groups and Boundaries. Oslo: Universitesforlaget, 1969. Frazier, E. Franklin. The Negro Family in the United States. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1939. Gray, H. â€Å"He Is a â€Å"Bad Mother*S%@! #†: Shaft and Contemporary Black Masculinity. American Quarterly. Vol. 50, No. 2, 1998. Gray, H. Cultural Politics. A Special Section:Black Masculinity and Visual Culture. Callaloo, Vol. 18, No. 2. (Spring, 1995). Jackson, J. Language Identity of The Colombian Vaupes Indians. In Baumand, R. ,Sherzer, J. , Exploration in the Ethnography of Speaking: Studies in the Socialand Cultural Foundations of Language. New York: Cambridge University Press, 1989. Majors, R. , & Bilson, J. M. Cool Pose. New York: Lexington, 1989. Mercer, K. Welcome to the Jungle: New Positions in Black Cultural Studies. New York: Routledge, 1994. Mercer, K. & Julien, I. Race, Sexual Politics and Black Masculinity: A Dossier. London: Lawerence & Wishart, 1998. Smith, A. D. The Ethnic Origins of Nations. Oxford: Blackwell, 1987. Staples, R. Black Masculinity: The Black Male’s Role in American Society. San Francisco: The Black Scholar Press, 1982. Wiegman, R. Feminism, ‘The Boyz’ and Other Matters Regarding the Male: Screening the Male: Exploring Masculinities in Hollywood Cinema. London: Routledge,1993. Wilikinson, D. Y. Expectations and Salience in White Female – African Male Self-Other Role Definitions. Chicago: Nelson-Hall, 1977.

Using Accents on French Capitals

Using Accents on French Capitals You may have heard that capital letters are not supposed to be accented. This may be good advice, but, really, whether to use  accents  on French capital letters is entirely up to you. Most of the time they are not essential, and so most French speakers do not add them. In publishing, they have not been added either ever since Vogue magazine decided about 20 years ago that they were too small to be read in print and detracted from clarity and good design; much of the publishing world agreed and followed suit. That said, there are actually two instances when you should always use accents on capital letters: Avoid Embarrassing Misunderstandings or Mistakes Look at what happens when  an advertisement for  biscuits salà ©s (salted crackers) is written in all caps:  BISCUITS SALES, a LOL-worthy mistake that means dirty crackers. Yum!  Its so much clearer to write BISCUITS SALÉS, nest-ce pas? There are plenty of  examples of French homographs like the case above, words that are spelled alike (or almost alike) but mean different things, where failing to add an accent or accents could lead  to embarrassing results. Consider haler (to haul in) versus hà ¢ler (to tan); arrià ©rà © (backward) versus arrià ¨re (backlog); and interne (internal) versus internà © (an inmate in a mental hospital), to name a few. Proper Nouns: The Name of a Company or a Person. Its important to show respect to organizations and people by spelling their names correctly, as well as to make sure that the person who reads the name knows how it should be spelled. If you dont write the accent when the name is in all caps, your reader may not realize that there is an accent when that individual sits down later to write a letter to the person or organization in question. What the  Acadà ©mie Franà §aise Says Some people argue that it just makes more sense  to always use  accents on capital letters in French. And the august  Acadà ©mie franà §aise  agrees: On ne peut que dà ©plorer que lusage des accents sur les majuscules soit flottant. On observe dans les textes manuscrits une tendance certaine lomission des accents. En typographie, parfois, certains suppriment tous les accents sur les capitales sous prà ©texte de modernisme, en fait pour rà ©duire les frais de composition. Il convient cependant dobserver quen franà §ais, laccent a pleine valeur orthographique. Son absence ralentit la lecture, fait hà ©siter sur la prononciation, et peut mà ªme induire en erreur. Il en va de mà ªme pour le trà ©ma et la cà ©dille. On veille donc, en bonne typographie, utiliser systà ©matiquement les capitales accentuà ©es, y compris la prà ©position  ,  comme le font bien sà »r tous les dictionnaires, commencer par le  Dictionnaire de lAcadà ©mie franà §aise, ou les grammaires, comme  Le  Bon Usage  de Grevisse, mais aussi lImprimerie nationale, la Bibliothà ¨que de la Plà ©iade, etc. Quant aux textes manuscrits ou dactylographià ©s, il est à ©vident que leurs auteurs, dans un souci de clartà © et de correction, auraient tout intà ©rà ªt suivre à ©galement cette rà ¨gle.

Experience MIS Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Experience MIS - Assignment Example b). Samantha has a competitive strategy which gives her an advantage over her rivals. During slow business times, she calls her former clients to remind them of the importance to trimming their trees on a daily basis. She reminded them of the services she provides to the members (O’Brien, James, Marakas & George, 2006). C). Knowledge of her competitive advantage would help her greatly in her sales and marketing efforts. Since during times when business is weak she calls her clients to remind them of her services, this gives her a competitive advantage over her rivals who do not do the same. The idea of reminding customers is a marketing tool that would retain customers thus increasing sales (O’Brien, James, Marakas & George, 2006). d). The information system that Samantha needs to use is the ABC model to lock in customers. According to Kroenke, Bunker, and Wilson, Samantha can use this model to make it expensive for her customers to switch to another service provider. Therefore, Samantha should make use of this system to keep customers (Kroenke, Bunker & Wilson,

Critical Thinking Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Critical Thinking - Research Paper Example When HP, Compaq, and Dell developed PCs and offered to the individuals at an affordable cost, the market grew at an exponential rate. It was too late for IBM then to grab a respectable share in PC market. A critical and creative thinking on part of the IBM to serve large small consumers at an affordable cost would have prevented others to grab the huge market that it culminated into within a decade or so. Free will is a philosophical term for which most philosophers believe that the free will is related with moral responsibility. Acting with free will means one is responsible for ones action. Free will, according to Rene Descartes, means freedom of choice to do or not to do something (Stanford encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2010). Socrates rightly said that truth can be approached by complete ignorance and not by any preconceived notions and beliefs. When one questions all established belief system then one goes nearer to the truth. Usually, it is believed that knowledge is an observational phenomenon but according to ‘rationalists’, knowledge can also be gained purely by thinking. This contrasts the view point of ‘empiricists’ that all knowledge is gained through observations. In order to understand what knowledge is and how it will be available, one needs to ponder over what role knowing might play or what inherent value it may offer – if there is any (Internet Encyclopedia of philosophy (2012). Usually, opinions are formed before hand before going deeper into the details. Each one of us has preconceived beliefs and opinions about so many things and that come in our way in finding the truth. Opinions without any basis are great impediments to our free thinking. Egocentrism is hindrance to critical thinking because it revolves around self-centered thinking. It has two major forms known as self-serving and self-interested thinking. Egocentrism develops due to superiority feeling in

Cost Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cost Analysis - Essay Example 6 Works cited 8 1. How much do US Airways profits fluctuate due to fuel volatility? The quarterly report of 2013 of US Airways shows that, as compared to 2012, the net income earned by the company in the second quarter of 2013 has decreased, which has further lowered the Earnings per Share (EPS) available to the shareholders. The reason for this decrease in profits can be apportioned to the volatility in prices of fuel. As mentioned in the quarterly report of 2013, on a daily basis the prices of Brent crude oil had fluctuated between $110 per barrel to $97 per barrel in the month of April, and in the quarter end the price was found to be $102 per barrel. Although the U.S. airline Industry is facing moderate fuel prices in the second quarter of 2013, but in the 1st quarter of 2012, the industry faced higher volatility and uncertainty which have affected the business. The uncertainty in the prices of fuel has caused disruptions in the supply of aircraft fuel and has adversely affected the operating results and liquidity of the company. 2. Â  Why is fuel volatility bad for profits? Do a cost analysis alone, and then do a full profit maximizing analysis. Volatility in the prices of fuel has serious affects on profits of the company. The volatility results in ups and downs in dividends and share prices which adverse affects global growth. Volatility in the prices of fuel also affects output, operations and cash flow, which in turn affects profitability. The cost of express and mainline fuel was $1.13billion in the second quarter of 2013, which was 4.6% or $55million lower as compared to the second quarter of 2012. The company is trying to maintain a low cost structure, but it is dependent on two factors, the health of the economy and the price of fuel. The mainline costs per available seat mile excluding special items, fuel and profits have decreased by 0.4%, i.e. 0.04cents, from 8.25cents in the second quarter of 2012, to 8.21cents in the second quarter of 2013. I n such a situation, the company can attempt to maximize its profits by an attempt to minimize its risks by adopting risk control measures. Systematic risk is not under the control of the company, but the company may try to overcome unsystematic risks with the help of strategic decisions. 3. What is Express Operation’s operating cost per ASM? What is its operating cost per RPM? What is the difference between these two numbers? Cost per Available Seat Miles (CASM) is a measure of unit cost used commonly in the airline industry. It is expressed in cents to manage each seat mile offered. It is computed by dividing various measures of operating revenue by ASM (Available Seat Miles). Cost per ASM is used to compare costs of different airlines or of the same airline across different time periods. A lower CASM makes it easier for an airline to make profit, but does not guarantee profitability. Revenue Passenger Mile (RPM) is created when a passenger pays to fly one mile and is consid ered to be the basic measure of airline passenger traffic. RPM can be considered to be the basic amount of production created by an airline. RPM can be calculated by multiplying the number of filled seats by the number of miles flown. Over an airline’s system ASM can be compared to RPM to determine the total passenger load factor. RPM is frequently compared to ASM, as ASM determines the total number of passenger miles that could be produced to verify the amount of revenue

Pick 3 topics, each topic has only 1 paragraph with more than 10 Essay

Pick 3 topics, each topic has only 1 paragraph with more than 10 sentences i guess. so it will be 3 paragraphs - Essay Example The formation of gangs in schools, and the related violence and rivalry, is reduced by the absence of gang-identified clothes. At the same time, uniforms eliminate expensive items of clothing which lead to jealousy and theft. The secure school environment established by a uniform dress code creates an atmosphere of sharing which in turn leads to increased self-esteem. School uniforms contribute to the development of self-esteem in public school students. This is an off-shoot of the fact that self-esteem is significantly linked to attire in the case of most adolescents. This is largely because clothes are an indication of the student’s economic background. The difference in dress leads to the differentiation between rich and poor students. As clothes make a statement, student identities become linked to their clothes. Those who are unable to keep up with the latest fashion trends risk being teased by their wealthier peers. There is also the risk of teachers being unconsciously influenced by the affluence of students as reflected by their clothes. This many lead to differential treatment of students in class. A uniform dress code eliminates differences based on the student’s home environment and gives students the opportunity to be judged completely on the basis of their abilities. The resulting increase in self-esteem leads to improv ed academic performance. Academic performance is improved by a uniform dress code as the distraction of dressing fashionably for school is eliminated. Conflict with parents over what constitutes appropriate attire for school is also avoided. As there is no need to spend time on choosing clothes and accessories for school every morning, there is more time for study at home. At the same time, punctuality, and attendance at the first classroom session in schools, is improved. As uniforms eliminate the need for school teachers to monitor student’s attire, more time

Zancolli Classification Hand Function Scale

Zancolli Classification Hand Function Scale Zancolli classification hand function scale was formed by Eduardo Zancolli in 2003. He first used this scale in assessing the children with cerebral palsy who underwent reconstructive surgery. In this scale he explained about the grasping and release patterns between the wrist and fingers and hand appearance of the spastic children. He explained the hand appearance in degrees and that, degrees of extension can be measured using goniometer. The responses of the scale was scored as 0, 1, 1a, 2a, 2b and 3. Scoring: 0: Patients can extend the wrist more than 20 0 with the fingers extended. 1a: Patients can extend the wrist between 0 and 20 0 with the fingers extended 1b: Patients can extend the wrist between -200 and -10 with the fingers extended 2a: Patients can extend the wrist with the finger flexed. The fingers can also be extended, but with more than 20 0 of wrist flexion. 2b: Patients cannot extend the wrist with the finger flexed. The fingers can be extended, but with more than 200 of wrist flexion. 3: Extension of the fingers and wrist is impossible. Interpretation: Maximum score is 3 Minimum score is 0. The lowest score indicates no deformity and highest score indicates severe deformity. 3.8.3. Cryotherapy: The term cryotherapy comes from the Greek word cryo means cold and the word therapy means cure. It has been around since the 1880-1890s. The ancient Greeks knew the secrets of wellness Cryotherapy (Greek cryo cold, therapeia cure) is a term used for treatment based on exposing the human body to very low temperatures for brief periods at a time. Cryotherapy came into broad use in the care of sports injuries during the 1970s. Articles Needed: 1. A plinth to position the subject 2. Ice Packs 3. A stopwatch 4. Towels 2 5. Bowl with cotton ball 6. Spirit 7. Goniometer Procedure: Step 1: Explain the procedure to the care giver Step 2: Arrange all the articles Step 3: Prepare the child by removing the clothing from the elbow to fingers Step 4: Level of spasticity and hand function is assessed using Ashworth scale and zancolli classification hand function scale. Step 5: Wrap the ice pack in a wet towel. Step 6: The area is cleaned with spirit cotton and the upper limb of the child was positioned on pillow. Step 7: Place the wrapped pack on the flexor compartment of the forearm Step 8: Leave the pack in place with dry towel Step 9: After 5 minutes assess for any adverse effects like rashes. Step 10: The ice pack was applied for 20 minutes and then removed and dried Step 11: Make the child comfortable Step 12: Replace the articles Step 13: Level of spasticity and hand function is measured after 10 days. 3.9. HYPOTHESES H01: There is no significant difference between experimental group and control group in the level of spasticity and hand function before cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy. H1: There is a significant difference in the level of spasticity and hand function before and after cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group. H02: There is no significant difference in the level of spasticity and hand function before and after intervention among children with cerebral palsy of control group. H2: There is a significant difference between experimental and control group in the level of spasticity and hand function after cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy. 3.10. PILOT STUDY Pilot study was conducted to find out feasibility and practicability, validity and reliability of the study. The study was conducted at Aashirwad special school for a period of 6 days. A total of 6 samples were selected for the study in simple random sampling technique. Personal information was collected. A pre assessment was done using Ashworth scale and Zancolli classification hand function scale followed that cryotherapy was administered by the researcher for 30 minutes daily for each child for a period of 6 days. Post test was done on the 6th day. Data collected was tabulated and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. The results showed that, there was a significant improvement in children after cryotherapy. Hence the study was feasible and practicable. 3.11. MAIN STUDY The main study was conducted to meet the objectives of the present study. The data was collected at Families for Children for a period of 30 days. The children were selected according to purposive sampling technique. Total of 30 samples were allocated alternatively into experimental and control group. The researcher explained the procedure to care givers of the children and obtained consent from the care givers. Demographic data was collected first. A pre assessment was done using Ashworth scale and Zancolli classification hand function scale for the children with cerebral palsy. Cryotherapy was administered to the child by the researcher for duration of 20 minutes daily for a period of 10 days to each child in a comfortable environment. The post test was done using the same tool at the end of 10th day of intervention. 3.12. TECHNIQUE OF DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION A frequency table was formulated for all significant information. Descriptive and inferential statistical method was used for data analysis. t test for dependent samples was used to find the significance of cryotherapy. t test for independent samples was used to find out the comparison of post test scores among experimental and control group. DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION The effectiveness of cryotherapy prior to passive stretching on the level of spasticity and hand function among children with CP was assessed and analyzed. The participants of the study were children with spastic cerebral palsy. Totally 30 samples were selected for the study and randomly divided into experimental and control group. The intervention selected for the present study was cryotherapy for 20 minutes before passive stretching on the level of spasticity and hand function. The level of spasticity was assessed before and after cryotherapy by using Ashworth scale. Hand function was assessed before and after cryotherapy using Zancolli classification hand function scale. The collected data were grouped and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. SECTION I 4.1. DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES The following demographic variables are distributed in the form of tables and graphs. The demographic variables are age (in years), sex and types of cerebral palsy among children with spastic cerebral palsy. TABLE 4.1. DISTRIBUTION OF DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY (N=30) Demographic Variables Experimental group Control group No. of participants Percentage (%) No. of participants Percentage (%) Age (years) 6-9 3 20 5 33 9-12 5 33 7 47 12-15 7 47 3 20 Sex Male 5 33 4 27 Female 10 67 11 73 Types of CP Diplegic 5 33 7 47 Quadriplegic 10 67 8 53 The table shows the distribution of demographic variables like age (years), sex, and type of CP that are children with spastic cerebral palsy. The age distribution children with spastic cerebral palsy range from 6-15 years in which 47% of children from experimental group range from 12-15 years and in control group they range from 9-12 years respectively. 20% of children from experimental group and control group range from 6-9 years and 12-15 years respectively. 33% of children from experimental group and control group range from 9-12 years and 6-9 years respectively. In both the group majority of children were female while 33% in experimental group and 27% in control group were male. In both groups, majority of children were quadriplegic while 33% in experimental group and 47% in control group were diplegic. FIG 4.1 AGE DISTRIBUTION OF CHILDREN WITH SPASTIC CEREBRAL PALSY FIG 4.2 GENDER DISTRIBUTION OF CHILDREN WITH SPASTIC CEREBRAL PALSY FIG 4.3 DISTRIBUTION OF TYPES OF CP AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY SECTION II 4.2. 1. ASSESSMENT ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY The ashworth scale consists of 5 point scale used to assess the level of spasticity among children with cerebral palsy in both experimental and control group. The assessment was done for both the hands before and after cryotherapy. TABLE 4.2. ASSESSMENT ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY (ON RIGHT HAND) AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY BEFORE AND AFTER CRYOTHERAPY (N=30) Level of spasticity Experimental group Control group Before After Before After n % n % n % n % No spasticity 1 3 Mild spasticity 1 3 11 37 2 7 2 7 Moderate Spasticity 14 47 3 10 13 43 13 43 The table shows that in experimental group majority of children with spasticity (47%) had moderate spasticity before the intervention whereas majority (37%) had mild spasticity after intervention. In control group there was no changes after intervention. The scores on comparison showed reduction in the level of spasticity among children with cerebral palsy on right hand. TABLE 4.3. ASSESSMENT ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY (ON LEFT HAND) AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY BEFORE AND AFTER CRYOTHERAPY (N=30) Level of spasticity Experimental group Control group Before After Before After n % n % n % n % No spasticity 1 3 Mild spasticity 1 3 12 40 2 7 6 20 Moderate Spasticity 14 47 3 10 13 43 9 30 The table shows that in experimental group majority of children with spasticity (47%) had moderate spasticity before the intervention whereas majority (40%) had mild spasticity after intervention. In control group majority (43%) had moderate spasticity before intervention and mild difference occurs after intervention. The scores on comparison show reduction in the level of spasticity among the experimental group children with cerebral palsy on left hand. 4.2.2. ASSESSMENT ON HAND FUCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY The zancolli classification hand function scale used to assess hand function among children with cerebral palsy in both experimental and control group. The assessment was done for both the hands before and after cryotherapy. TABLE 4.4. ASSESSMENT ON HAND FUNCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY BEFORE AND AFTER CRYOTHERAPY (N = 30) Hand Experimental Group Control Group Before After Before After Mean Mean% Mean Mean% Mean Mean% Mean Mean% Right 3.2 64 1.86 37 2.6 53 2.66 53 Left 3.1 62 1.7 34 2.73 55 2.53 51 Hand function on both right and left hand among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group shows that there was an improvement in hand function after intervention, when compared with the scores before intervention. In control group there was a mild changes in the right and left hand assessment scores after intervention. Thus the score reveals that the experimental group children had positive improvement in the hand function compared to control group children. SECTION III 4.3.1. COMPARISON ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY IN EXPERIMENTAL AND CONTROL GROUP BEFORE INTERVENTION Before intervention, assessment on the level of spasticity and hand function was done among experimental and control group. The obtained scores were analyzed using t test for independent samples, to prove the effectiveness of the intervention. TABLE 4.5. COMPARISON ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY IN EXPERIMENTAL GROUP AND CONTROL GROUP BEFORE INTERVENTION Group Level of spasticity Hand function Right Hand Left hand Right Hand Left hand Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Experimental 2.26 57 0.5 0.3 2 50 0.51 1.2 3.2 64 0.84 1.6 3.1 45 0.83 0.4 Control 2.3 58 0.3 2.6 57 0.57 2.6 52 1 2.7 54 0.9 (N=30) The above table depicts the obtained t value calculated for the level of spasticity and hand function of experimental group and control group before intervention. The level of spasticity on right hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 57% (0.57) and the control group was 58% (0.3). The level of spasticity on left hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 50% (0.51) and the control group was 57% (0.57). The hand function on right hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 64% (0.84) and the control group was 52% (1.07). The level of spasticity on right hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 45% (0.8) and the control group was 54% (0.9). Thus the mean percentage scores show that there is a positive difference in the level of spasticity and hand function among children with cerebral palsy. t test for independent samples is used to test the significance in mean difference among the experimental and control groups. The calculated t value on the level of spasticity, the right hand score (0.33) and left hand score (1.26) are lesser than the table value at 0.05 level of significance. The calculated t value on hand function, the right hand score (1.62) and left hand score (0.38) are lesser than the table value at 0.05 level of significance. Hence the null hypothesis, There is a no significant difference between experimental group and control group in the level of spasticity and hand function before cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy is accepted. 4.3.2. ANALYSIS ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY Using ashworth scale, the level of spasticity and hand function among the children with cerebral palsy was assessed in both experimental and control group. The assessment was done for both the hands. The obtained scores are analyzed using t test dependent samples, to test the effectiveness of cryotherapy prior to passive stretching. TABLE 4.6. MEAN, STANDARD DEVIATION, t VALUE ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION (ON RIGHT HAND) BEFORE AND AFTER CRYOTHERAPY (N=30) Group Level of spasticity Hand Function Before After Mean difference t Before After Mean difference t Mean Standard deviation Mean Standard deviation Mean Standard deviation Mean Standard deviation Experimental 2.26 0.57 1.13 0.5 1.13 10.41** 3.2 0.8 1.86 0.7 1.33 9.8** Control 2.3 0.3 2.2 0.7 0.13 1.46 2.6 1.07 2.6 1.01 0.06 0.74 ** Significant at 0.01 level The above table reveals the distribution of mean and standard deviation of the obtained scores before and after cryotherapy among experimental group and control group children with cerebral palsy. The level of spasticity among experimental group showed a mean difference of 1.17 while there was mild difference in the control group. Thus the mean score in the level of spasticity shows that there was a positive difference in the reduction of spasticity among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group. Hand function of the experimental group showed a mean difference of 1.33 and the control group mean difference is about 0.06 Thus the mean scores show that there is a positive improvement in hand function among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group. t test was used to test the significance in mean difference. The calculated t value on the level of spasticity in the experimental group was 10.4 which was compared with the table value at 0.01 level of significance. The calculated t value on hand function in the experimental group was 9.8 which was compared with the table value at 0.01 level of significance. The calculated value was higher than the table value. Hence the research hypothesis, There is a significant difference in the level of spasticity and hand function before and after cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group is accepted. The calculated t value in control group on the level of spasticity was 1.46 and hand function was about 0.7 which was found to be lesser than the table value. Therefore the null hypothesis, There is no significant difference in the level of spasticity and hand function before and after cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy of control group is accepted. Thus the mean value reveals that cryotherapy prior to passive stretching was effective in reducing the level of spasticty and improving hand function among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group. TABLE 4.7. MEAN, STANDARD DEVIATION, t VALUE ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION (ON LEFT HAND) BEFORE AND AFTER CRYOTHERAPY (N=30) Group Level of spasticity Hand Function Before After Mean difference t Before After Mean difference t Mean Standard deviation Mean Standard deviation Mean Standard deviation Mean Standard deviation Experimental 2 0.51 1.13 0.34 0.86 9.5** 3.1 0.83 1.7 0.61 1.4 8.57** Control 2.26 0.57 2 0.63 0.2 1.87 2.7 0.97 2.53 0.9 0.2 1.87 ** Significant at 0.01 level The above table reveals the distribution of mean and standard deviation of the obtained scores before and after cryotherapy among experimental group and control group children with cerebral palsy. The level of spasticity among experimental group showed a mean difference of 0.86 while there was mild difference in control group. Thus the mean score in the level of spasticity shows that there was a positive difference in the reduction of spasticity among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group. Hand function of the experimental group showed a mean difference of 1.4 and while there was 0.2 mean difference in the control group. Thus the mean scores show that there is a positive improvement in hand function among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group. t test was used to test the significance in mean difference. The calculated t value on the level of spasticity in the experimental group was 9.5 which was compared with the table value at 0.01 level of significance. The calculated t value on hand function in the experimental group was 8.57 which were compared with the table value at 0.01 level of significance. The calculated value was higher than the table value. Hence the research hypothesis, There is a significant difference in the level of spasticity and hand function before and after cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group is accepted. The calculated t value in control group on the level of spasticity was 1.87 and hand function was about 1.87 which was found to be lesser than the table value. Therefore the null hypothesis, There is no significant difference in the level of spasticity and hand function before and after cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy is accepted. Thus the mean value reve als that cryotherapy prior to passive stretching was effective in reducing the level of spasticity and improving hand function among children with cerebral palsy of experimental group. FIG 4.4 COMPARISON ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY BEFORE AND AFTER INTERVENTION OF EXPERIMENTAL GROUP AND CONTROL GROUP FIG 4.5. COMPARISON ON HAND FUNCTION BEFORE AND AFTER INTERVENTION OF EXPERIMENTAL GROUP AND CONTROL GROUP 4.3.3. COMPARISON ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY IN EXPERIMENTAL AND CONTROL GROUP AFTER INTERVENTION After intervention, assessment on the level of spasticity and hand function was done among experimental and control group. The obtained scores were comparatively analyzed using t test for independent samples, to prove the effectiveness of the intervention TABLE 4.8. COMPARISON ON THE LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY IN EXPERIMENTAL GROUP AND CONTROL GROUP AFTER INTERVENTION Group Level of spasticity Hand function Right Hand Left Hand Right Hand Left Hand Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Mean Mean % Standard Deviation t Experimental 1.13 28 0.5 4.8** 1.13 28 0.34 4.5** 1.86 37 0.71 2.74* 1.7 34 0.61 3.53* Control 2.2 55 0.7 2 50 0.6 2.6 52 1 2.5 51 0.9 * Significant at 0.05 level The above table depicts the obtained t value calculated for the level of spasticity and hand function of experimental group and control group after intervention. The level of spasticity on right hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 28% (0.5) and the control group was 55% (0.7). The level of spasticity on left hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 28% (0.34) and the control group was 50% (0.6). The hand function on right hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 37% (0.71) and the control group was 52% (1). The hand function on left hand of children among experimental group the mean percentage score was 34% (0.6) and the control group was 51% (0.9). Thus the mean percentage scores show that there is a positive difference in the level of spasticity and hand function among children with cerebral palsy. t test for independent samples is used to test the significance in mean difference among the experimental and control groups. The calculated t value on the level of spasticity, the right hand score (4.87) and left hand score (4.5) are higher than the table value at 0.01 level of significance. The calculated t value on hand function, the right hand score (2.74) and left hand score (3.53) are higher than the table value at 0.05 level of significance. Hence the hypothesis, There is a significant difference between experimental group and control group in the level of spasticity and hand function after cryotherapy among children with cerebral palsy is accepted. This proves that, cryotherapy prior to passive stretching has its influence in reduction of spasticity and improvement in hand function. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The study was conducted at Families for Children, Coimbatore, with the focus on determining the effectiveness of cryotherapy prior to passive stretching on the level of spasticity and hand function among children with cerebral palsy. The samples of the study were 30 children with spastic cerebral palsy at Families for Children, and they were randomly allocated to experimental and control group. Cryotherapy was applied prior to passive stretching, to reduce the level of spasticity and improve hand function. To assess the level of spasticity and hand function, the researcher used Ashworth Scale and Zancolli classification hand function scale. The intervention was provided for 20 minutes prior to passive stretching for 10 days. The pretest score and post test scores were compared. The findings are discussed under the following headings. 5.1. FINDINGS RELATED TO DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLE 5.1.1. Age Distribution In the present study, out of 30 samples, 15 children were randomly assigned to experimental group and 15 children were assigned to control group. Age distribution in experimental group revealed that, majority of children with spastic cerebral palsy (47 %) were between 12-15 years of age, 33% were between 9-12 years and 20 % were between 6-9 years. Age distribution in control group revealed that, majority of children (47 %) were between 9-12 years, 33% were between 6-9 years and 20% were between 12-15 years. Boyd RN (2012) conducted an interventional study by providing progressive resistance training for CP children (between the age group of 6-15 years) who are ambulatory in order to improve muscle strength. The study findings showed improvement in muscle strength though there was no change in the walking ability. 5.1.2. Gender Distribution Gender distribution of children showed that, majority of children was females in both experimental (67 %) and control (73 %) group. A study on effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation over cryotherapy along with passive stretching as a common protocol on improving hand function in patients with spastic cerebral palsy by Devidas S Patil (2011) showed that, improvement of hand function was seen in both male and female children. 5.1.3. Type of Cerebral palsy Assessment on the type of cerebral palsy showed that, majority of children were quadriplegic in both experimental (67 %) and control (53%) group. A study on efficacy of cold therapy on spasticity and hand function in children with cerebral palsy by Gehan et al.,(2010) revealed that, cryotherapy was effective in reducing spasticity and improving hand function in both diplegic and quadriplegic children. 5.2. ASSESSMENT OF LEVEL OF SPASTICITY AND HAND FUNCTION AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY The children with the diagnosis of mild and moderate spastic cerebral palsy were selected for the study. The level of spasticity was measured using Ashworth scale. The tool is a 5 point scale in which the researcher extends the limb from the maximal flexion to maximal extension until the soft resistance is felt. The child limb moved through its full range of motion with one second by counting one thousand and one. The level of resistance felt is scored using 5 point scale. Hand function was assessed using Zancolli classification hand function scale in which the researcher assesses the degree of flexion and extension in the wrist and finger flexors by using goniometer. The degree of responses was scored as 0, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3. Akinbo et. al., (2007) conducted a similar study on effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and cryotherapy on spasticity and hand function. A quasi experimental pretest posttest control design was adopted in the study with sample size of 20. The level of spasticity was assessed using Ashworth scale in which the patient limb was extended from the maximal flexion to maximal extension until the soft resistance is felt. Hand function was assessed using zancolli classification hand function scale. The degree of flexion and extension was assessed using goniometer. 5.3. ADMINISTER CRYOTHERAPY PRIOR TO PASSIVE STRETCHING AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY After assessing the level of spasticity and hand function, Cryotherapy was administered prior to passive stretching. The child is placed in a supine position with upper limb supported on a pillow. The area is cleansed with spirit and cotton. The wrapped ice pack is placed on the flexor compartment of the forearm for 20 minutes and then dried. Then the child had passive st