Double Consciousness and Their Eyes Were Watching God Essay

Zora Neale Hurston novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God is a very important piece of literature written in the late 30’s which told the story of a woman and her struggle and quest as a black person, a woman and most importantly, a human being with unique goals and desires. The story followed an ambitious woman and her quest for self-realization and self-discovery together with her experiences as wives and partners of numerous men. William Edward Burghardt Du Bois, a black thinker who lived in almost the same era as Zora Neale Hurston, the author of the novel had introduced an important theoretical model and concept that will be useful for the analysis and interpretation of any reader of Their Eyes Watching God’s. Du Bois’ concept on double consciousness became a very important perspective and lenses in seeing Hurston work. In this paper, we are going to argue that in the majority of the novel, Du Bois theory on double consciousness dictated much of the affairs and events in the novel of Hurston. Influenced by this particular framework, the novel became a very important derivative of this Du Bois’ particular idea that encroached not only on his original conception of double consciousness but also its development and occurrence on numerous areas and topics that diversified from its original idea. The Novel The novel started with the controversial return of Janie in the town she formerly hailed with her former husband. She was confident and at the same time aloof for many of the town people that saw her. Different gossips had spread with her return, mostly negative and against her experiences and characters. At the same time, these accusations are untrue. The only person who talked to her was her old friend in the name of Pheoby Watson. With her conversation with Pheoby, the story of Janie and her struggle and quest was told and revealed (Hurston 8-9). Reading the story, one cannot oversee the kind of language or voice wherein the story was written. The kind of language that was used gave a very unique distinction with the story. The novel was enveloped with an active voice that gave much life reading it. In short, the novel or the story was told rather than being written. The use of a colorful and trendy black language is widespread in the whole story. The statement like, â€Å"Dat’s what Ah say ‘bout dese ole women runnin’ after young boys† is common on the entirety of the novel (Hurston 5). In many cases and speeches, the use of proper English both in writing and speech was disregarded. This kind of telling the story had tried to mirror the black culture that it is trying to tell. The entire novel is a recollection of the events in the life of Janie. Set in the past, she tried to refresh the memories and experiences of her former affairs and relationships to different men that managed to transform her to what she is at present. Her affairs that mostly end in a tragedy had managed to mold Janie to a kind of person that is strong and firmly grounded inside. Her story of numerous conflicts with herself and the men that she related, together with the environment and the other people around her had managed to release her from the dilemma of having two consciousness circling her thoughts and actions in the past. Double Consciousness Du Bois double consciousness is explained as being caught up in two worlds. More particularly described as the dilemma of the Black people living in a white world in the western culture, the blacks were forced by the society in general to have a dream and aspiration in accordance to the white’s vision. This is happening at the same time with his vision to retain his blackness, the vision and goals that were enveloped on being a black (McWhorther 1, 14). However, this specific kind of interpreting double consciousness can be expounded to more general terms. As what is done in Hurston’s novel, this theory on double consciousness was no longer exclusive on a black person quest for identity in a white men’s world. Rather, the theory had shown that double consciousness can also manifest in one’s quest for the realization of his sex and gender. More importantly, double consciousness was used for a person’s quest for the discovery of his or her humanity. Janie, the central character in the novel had shown the numerous issues that are revolving on her character. First is the double consciousness that arose out of her grandmother’s pragmatism. Her marriage for Logan in the earlier part of the novel was largely based on her grandmother’s idea on what the basis of the marriage should be. For her grandmother, the most important criterion that she must consider in choosing her husband is the security that the man can gave to him. This means both economic and physical security. It is important to note that this idea is made possible by her grandmother’s experience of discrimination and oppression (Hubert 20-21). On the other hand, this kind of idea of pragmatic marriage conflicted with Janie’s desire for a marriage that is based on love, commitment, adventures and passion. Though she followed her grandmother’s request at first, she soon followed this innate and suppressed dream of hers by leaving her first husband in the name of Logan (Hurston 30). Another notable part of the story that discussed Janie’s quest against double consciousness is her relationship with Jody. Jody, a man who was obsessed with his power tried to isolate and suppressed Janie’s innate passion in relating to people. As stated, â€Å"He’s uh whirlwind among breezes . . . he’s de wind and we’se de grass. We bend whichever way he blows† (Hurston 60). These statements only describe how domineering Jody was not only to his wife but also to his people. With her relationship with Jody, much of Janie’s attitudes, desires and wants were pushed into background because of his power domineering husband (Hurston 59-60). The situation in Janie holding a speech in the town meeting is a good example of Jody’s domination. The town requested for the wife of the mayor to make some speeches. However, Jody prevented her wife to make a speech, saying it is inappropriate for a woman to do such things. Janie did not react loudly on her husband’s action (Hubert 29-30). However, emotions piled inside her which will explode and shall make her not to love her husband in the near future. Again, this is another case of the double consciousness that happened with Janie. Jody wanted to suppress almost all of her association in the rest of the population. However, deep inside Janie, she has a desire to live and associate with the population, no matter what her husband think of them. The falling ill of Jody and his death also posed a double consciousness in the case of Janie. With the death of the mayor, the rest of the town expected the widow to mourn and grieve for a period of time. However for Janie, she did not felt to grieve or mourn for the death of her husband. Deep inside her, she felt she was freed from the chains that her husband chained on him. For her, it is not the time for sadness but rather a moment for celebration Nevertheless, she still repressed these positive emotions on public and tried to be perceived to be mourning (Hurston 105-106). Again, this is a conflict of what the society expected to be her action and what she want to do for and by herself. Clearly, this is another notable instance of double consciousness that the novel had shown to us. Conclusion Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God is a novel that corresponded much of the idea of Du Bois in relation to double consciousness. However, Hurston writing had managed to expound the usual definition of Dubois on double consciousness. Rather than being stacked on a black person’s journey of self-realization and self-discovery in the land of the whites, Hurston had provided us a more diverse use of Du Bois’ theory. She tried to teach us that in many cases, there is a conflict between what the society, the environment and the people around and ourselves. The societies where we belong continuously provide expectations and limitation to each one of us. However, in many cases, what we want to aspire and what we want to do does not correspond what the society expect from us. From here, a conflict develops which later became a dilemma that we have to figure out to solve. The concept of double consciousness is a very important concept that we must all ponder and figure out. Every one of us that is caught in the web of these dilemmas is hold back in the pursuit of our dreams and happiness. Unless we managed to break free from the issues and dilemma that double consciousness had bear to us and act on our own desires and intentions, we cannot really realize and actualize ourselves towards our real happiness. Works Cited Hubert, Christopher. Zora Neale Hurston’s Their eyes were watching God. Research & Education Association. 2001. Web. Accessed 16 May 2010. Hurston, Zora Neale. Their Eyes Were Watching God. Lippincott Company. Philadelphia. 1937. Print. Accessed 16 May 2010. McWhorter, John. Double Consciousness in Black America. CATO Policy Report Vol. XXV No. 2. March April 2003. Print. Accessed 16 May 2010.

A Historical Exploration Essay

In spite of the long existing disagreement regarding the very term, nature, and scope of modernism, it is still considered as one of the most significant artistic-cultural events of the twentieth century (Poplawski, 2003). This paper will provide a historical overview of early modernism focusing on the ideologies, influences, and a glimpse on works of the renowned modernists – both in literature and the arts – who lived between the periods of 1871-1914. Most importantly, this paper will explore on how early modernism managed to establish itself as a canonical category for artists and academicians alike, based on the critical articulations noted about the period. Early Modernism: 1871-1914 One of the most distinct characteristics of early modernism as a movement is its deliberate separation from the forms, structural designs, and traditions of the ancient times (Ricca, n. d. ). It is also characterized by its emphasis on details which refines the singularities of the artist as an individual. It promotes personal style that is anti-public and it is perceived to be inclined towards external formlessness. In literature, there were three styles that emerged: naturalism, decadent, and expressionism. Naturalism put emphasis on social issues being faced by common people, especially women. The writers of this movement tried to be objective in analyzing the modern society. Ricca (n. d. ) noted that in interpreting these social upheavals, the early modernists tried to explore on different elements such as simplicity, color and geometrical forms. The decadent style, on the other hand, eliminated the concept of materialism and scrutinized scientific revolution. It associated the bourgeois society with mediocrity. One good example of decadent writers is Oscar Wilde who expressed in his writings approaches to modern life. In relation to countering the impacts of capitalism and bourgeois community, expressionism attempted to illustrate new ways of artistic expression. The literary works of Franz Kafka are good examples of expressionism. He put into question the traditional concepts of reality and demonstrated the proofs that an individual in the modern age is being victimized by his environment beyond his control. Saler (1999) noted that aside from the movement’s association with stylistic innovations, early modernism includes a wide range of conceptions regarding nature and the purpose of art. All around the globe, modern art is in the state of constant change. The economic and political upheavals gave the artists the inspiration to seek new means of artistic expression and this resulted to a number of modern art movements. In the field of art, one example that can be noted is Umberto Boccioni’s Unique Forms of Continuity and Space. Boccioni was a well-known Futurist and he rejected the traditional concepts of the past and gave way to the new meanings of art through his artworks. Conclusion Modern art is usually perceived in the view of the modernists’ rejection of the conventional ideas and traditions of the past. Studies have shown that in order to understand well the true purpose of this movement, there is a greater need to look objectively into the social, political and historical influences that inspired early modernists. References: Early Modernism 1871-1914. Retrieved May 3, 2009, from www. class. uidaho. edu/engl210kt/Slides/Modernism%20to%20Postmodernism. ppt. Poplawski, P. (2003). Encyclopedia of Literary Modernism. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press. Ricca, K. (n. d. ) Early Modernism. Retrieved May 3, 2009, from gds. parkland. edu/gds/131online/presentations/EarlyModern. ppt Saler, M. T. (1999). The Avant-Garde in Interwar England: Medieval Modernism and the London Underground. New York: Oxford University Press.

Barack Obama - Announcement of Presidential Candidacy

Barack Obama Official Announcement of Candidacy for US President Delivered 10 February 2007, Springfield, Illinois You know, we all made this journey for a reason. Its humbling to see a crowd like this, but in my heart I know you didnt just come here for me. Youcame here because you believe in what this country can be. In the face of war, you believe there can be peace. In the face of despair, you believe there can be hope. In the face of a politics that shut you out, thats told you to settle, thats divided us for too long, you believe that we can be one people, reaching for whats possible, building that more perfect union. Thats the journey were on today. But let me tell you how I came to be here. As most of you know, Im not a native of this great state. I I moved to Illinois over two decades ago. I was a young man then, just a year out of college. I knew no one in Chicago when I arrived, was without money or family connections. But a group of churches had offered me a job as a community organizer for the grand sum of 13,000 dollars a year. And I accepted the job, sight unseen, motivated then by a single, simple, powerful idea: that I might play a small part in building a better America. My work took me to some of Chicagos poorest neighborhoods. I joined with pastors and lay-people to deal with communities that had been ravaged by plant closings. I saw that the problems people faced werent simply local in nature, that the decisions to close a steel mill was made by distant executives, that the lack of textbooks and computers in a school could be traced to skewed priorities of politicians a thousand miles away, and that when a child turns to violence I came to realize that theres a hole in that boys heart that no government alone can fill. It was in these neighborhoods that I received the best education that I ever had, and where I learned the meaning of my Christian faith. After three years of this work, I went to law school, because I wanted to understand how the law should work for those in need. I became a civil rights lawyer, and taught constitutional law, and after a time, I came to understand that our cherished rights of liberty and equality depend on the active participation of an awakened electorate. It was with these ideas in mind that I arrived in this capital city as a state Senator. It It was here, in Springfield, where I saw all that is America converge farmers and teachers, businessmen and laborers, all of them with a story to tell, all of them seeking a seat at the table, all of them clamoring to be heard. I made lasting friendships here, friends that I see here in the audience today. It was here It was here where we learned to disagree without being disagreeable; that its possible to compromise so long as you know those principles that can never be compromised; and that so long as were willing to listen to each other, we can assume the best in people instead of the worst. Thats why we were able to reform a death penalty system that was broken; thats why we were able to give health insurance to children in need; thats why we made the tax system right here in Springfield more fair and just for working families; and thats why we passed ethics reform that the cynics said could never, ever be passed. It was here, in Springfield, where North, South, East, and West come together that I was reminded of the essential decency of the American people where I came to believe that through this decency, we can build a more hopeful America. And that is why, in the shadow of the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln once called on a house divided to stand together, where common hopes and common dreams still live, I stand before you today to announce my candidacy for President of the United States of America. Now Now, listen, I I thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. [to audience chanting Obama] Look, I Irecognize that there is a certain presumptuousness in this, a certain audacity, to this announcement. I know that I havent spent a lot of time learning the ways of Washington. But Ive been there long enough to know that the ways of Washington must change. The genius of our Founders is that they designed a system of government that can be changed. And we should take heart, because weve changed this country before. In the face of tyranny, a band of patriots brought an empire to its knees. In the face of secession, we unified a nation and set the captives free. In the face of Depression, we put people back to work and lifted millions out of poverty. We welcomed immigrants to our shores. We opened railroads to the west. We landed a man on the moon. And we heard a Kings call to let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream. Weve done this before: Each and every time, a new generation has risen up and done whats needed to be done. Today we are called once more, and it is time for our generation to answer that call. For that is our unyielding faith that in in the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it. Thats what Abraham Lincoln understood. He had his doubts. He had his defeats. He had his skeptics. He had his setbacks. But through his will and his words, he moved a nation and helped free a people. Its because of the millions who rallied to his cause that were no longer divided, North and South, slave and free. Its because men and women of every race, from every walk of life, continued to march for freedom long after Lincoln was laid to rest, that today we have the chance to face the challenges of this millennium together, as one people as Americans. All of us know what those challenges are today: a war with no end, a dependence on oil that threatens our future, schools where too many children arent learning, and families struggling paycheck to paycheck despite working as hard as they can. We know the challenges. Weve heard them. Weve talked about them for years. Whats stopped us from meeting these challenges is not the absence of sound policies and sensible plans. Whats stopped us is the failure of leadership, the smallness the smallness of our politics the ease with which were distracted by the petty and trivial, our chronic avoidance of tough decisions, our preference for scoring cheap political points instead of rolling up our sleeves and building a working consensus to tackle the big problems of America. For the past six years weve been told that our mounting debts dont matter. Weve been told that the anxiety Americans feel about rising health care costs and stagnant wages are an illusion. Weve been told that climate change is a hoax. Weve been told that tough talk and an ill-conceived war can replace diplomacy, and strategy, and foresight. And when all else fails, when Katrina happens, or the death toll in Iraq mounts, weve been told that our crises are somebody elses fault. Were distracted from our real failures, and told to blame the other Party, or gay people, or immigrants. And as people have looked away in disillusionment and frustration, we know whats filled the void: the cynics, the lobbyists, the special interests whove turned our government into a game only they can afford to play. They write the checks and you get stuck with the bill. They get the access while you get to write a letter. They think they own this government, but were here today to take it back. The time for that kind of politics is over. It is through. Its time to turn the page right here and right now. Now look [Audience chants ObamaObamaObama] Okay. Alright. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Look, look, we have made some progress already. I was proud to help lead the fight in Congress that led to the most sweeping ethics reforms since Watergate. But Washington has a long way to go, and it wont be easy. Thats why well have to set priorities. Well have to make hard choices. And although government will play a crucial role in bringing about the changes that we need, more money and programs alone will not get us to where we need to go. Each of us, in our own lives, will have to accept responsibility for instilling an ethic of achievement in our children, for adapting to a more competitive economy, for strengthening our communities, and sharing some measure of sacrifice. So let us begin. Let us begin this hard work together. Let us transform this nation. Let us be the generation that reshapes our economy to compete in the digital age. Lets set high standards for our schools and give them the resources they need to succeed. Lets recruit a new army of teachers, and give them better pay and more support in exchange for more accountability. Lets make college more affordable, and lets invest in scientific research, and lets lay down broadband lines through the heart of inner cities and rural towns all across America. We can do that. And as our economy changes, lets be the generation that ensures our nations workers are sharing in our prosperity. Lets protect the hard-earned benefits their companies have promised. Lets make it possible for hardworking Americans to save for retirement. Lets allow our unions and their organizers to lift up this countrys middle-class again. We can do that. Lets be the generation that ends poverty in America. Every single person willing to work should be able to get job training that leads to a job, and earn a living wage that can pay the bills, and afford child care so their kids can have a safe place to go when they work. We can do this. And lets be the generation that finally, after all these years, tackles our health care crisis. We can control costs by focusing on prevention, by providing better treatment to the chronically ill, and using technology to cut the bureaucracy. Lets be the generation that says right here, right now: We will have universal health care in America by the end of the next Presidents first term. We can do that. Lets be the generation that finally frees America from the tyranny of oil. We can harness homegrown, alternative fuels like ethanol and spur the production of more fuel-efficient cars. We can set up a system for capping greenhouse gases. We can turn this crisis of global warming into a moment of opportunity for innovation, and job creation, and an incentive for businesses that will serve as a model for the world. Lets be the generation that makes future generations proud of what we did here. Most of all, lets be the generation that never forgets what happened on that September day and confront the terrorists with everything weve got. Politics doesnt have to divide us on this anymore; we can work together to keep our country safe. Ive worked with the Republican Senator Dick Lugar to pass a law that will secure and destroy some of the worlds deadliest weapons. We can work together to track down terrorists with a stronger military. We can tighten the net around their finances. We can improve our intelligence capabilities and finally get homeland security right. But lets also understand that ultimate victory against our enemies will only come by rebuilding our alliances and exporting those ideals that bring hope and opportunity to millions of people around the globe. We can do those things. But all of this cannot come to pass until we bring an end to this war in Iraq. Most of you know Most of you know that I opposed this war from the start. I thought it was a tragic mistake. Today we grieve for the families who have lost loved ones, the hearts that have been broken, and the young lives that could have been. America, it is time to start bringing our troops home. Its time Its time to admit that no amount of American lives can resolve the political disagreement that lies at the heart of someone elses civil war. Thats why I have a plan that will bring our combat troops home by March of 2008. Let the Iraqis know Letting the Iraqis know that we will not be there forever is our last, best hope to pressure the Sunni and Shia to come to the table and find peace. And theres one other thing that its not too late to get right about this war, and that is the homecoming of the men and women, our veterans, who have sacrificed the most. Let us honor their courage by providing the care they need and rebuilding the military they love. Let us be the generation that begins that work. I know there are those who dont believe we can do all these things. I understand the skepticism. After all, every four years, candidates from both Parties make similar promises, and I expect this year will be no different. All of us running for President will travel around the country offering ten-point plans and making grand speeches; all of us will trumpet those qualities we believe make us uniquely qualified to lead this country. But too many times, after the election is over, and the confetti is swept away, all those promises fade from memory, and the lobbyists and special interests move in, and people turn away, disappointed as before, left to struggle on their own. Thats why this campaign cant only be about me. It must be about us. It must be about what we can do together. This campaign must be the occasion, the vehicle, of your hopes, and your dreams. It will take your time, your energy, and your advice to push us forward when were doing right, and let us know when were not. This campaign has to be about reclaiming the meaning of citizenship, restoring our sense of common purpose, and realizing that few obstacles can withstand the power of millions of voices calling for change. By ourselves, this change will not happen. Divided, we are bound to fail. But the life of a tall, gangly, self-made Springfield lawyer tells us that a different future is possible. He tells us that there is power in words. He tells us that theres power in conviction. That beneath all the differences of race and region, faith and station, we are one people. He tells us that theres power in hope. As Lincoln organized the forces arrayed against slavery, he was heard to say this: Of strange, discordant, and even hostile elements, we gathered from the four winds, and formed and fought to battle through. ¹ That is our purpose here today. That is why I am in this race not just to hold an office, but to gather with you to transform a nation. I want I want to win that next battle for justice and opportunity. I want to win that next battle for better schools, and better jobs, and better health care for all. I want us to take up the unfinished business of perfecting our union, and building a better America. And if you will join with me in this improbable quest, if you feel destiny calling, and see as I see, the future of endless possibility stretching out before us; if you sense, as I sense, that the time is now to shake off our slumber, and slough off our fears, and make good on the debt we owe past and future generations, then I am ready to take up the cause, and march with you, and work with you today. Together we can finish the work that needs to be done, and usher in a new birth of freedom on this Earth. Thank you very much everybody lets get to work! I love you. Thank you. Hello Springfield! Look at all of you. Look at all of you. Goodness. Thank you so much. Thank you so much. Giving all praise and honor to God for bringing us here today. Thank you so much. I am I am so grateful to see all of you. You guys are still cheering back there? [to audience on left.] Let me Let me begin by saying thanks to all you whove traveled, from far and wide, to brave the cold today. I know its a little chilly but Im fired up.

Debt and Taxes Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Debt and Taxes - Essay Example The study recommends that there be further research on the best ways of finding a balance between the two. Debt and Tax Introduction With increased concerns on the fluctuation of the world’s economy, governments have been on focus on the way they have handled these shifts. Borrowing and taxation have been largely used by various governments through fiscal policy to offset the imbalances that have been created by constant economic downfalls. Most governments have historically relied on domestic taxes for the facilitation of various expenditures. However, with pressure that arises from budget deficits, it is usually common to hear of governments borrowing to make up for the deficits in their expenditure plans. In addition, for an individual borrower, it is usually a general principle that the amount loaned out is considered to be part of income and therefore subjected to taxation. Consequently, it has been generally concluded by many researchers that taxation is the best way to ensure that firms utilize debt in their capital structure. Such is the complex relationship between debt and tax that there are various dynamics towards the two concepts as illustrated in economics. In view of the mentioned relationship between tax and debt, this paper will explore the various issues that come up as a result of the close examination of the two concepts. The economic implications, justifications of fiscal measures with relation to the two and other arguments on the relationship between the two concepts will be discussed. This will be done through use of available literature on the two issues. As a result, the paper will finally make conclusions with regards to the relationship and implications of taxation and debt policies by governments. In addition, the paper will identify and recommend the areas on the two concepts that will need further research. To begin, it is important to understand the significance and meaning of the two terms with respect to the underlying d iscussions. Taxes are the main fiscal policy instruments largely employed by federal governments to ensure that there are balances on earnings in particular areas of the economy as well as have a resource pool for the financing of public expenditure for the benefit of the citizens. Taxation is therefore a tool used by treasury to ensure that citizens and firms operating in the economy contribute to a larger pool where the government can draw funds for its smooth functioning as well as provide basic amenities and services like healthcare, education and security to all citizens (Simpson 4). There are various categories of taxes with respect to various economies. The United States’ economy, for instance, has three basic categories of taxation. Simpson (6) enlists them as progressive tax, regressive tax and proportional tax. On the other hand, debt is as a result of borrowing by the government, firms or an individual. Usually, the most debts attract interests which are paid on to p of the money borrowed for a specified period of time. As a result, taxation is connected with debt because the interest payable is classified as income and is therefore subjected to taxation. Taxation is used by government for fiscal policy measures that may be aimed at regulating the economy. For instance, in cases where there is a slow economic growth, governments may reduce taxation to some sectors to encourage borrowing and expenditure which therefore translates to growth.

Monetary Policy and Economic Crisis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Monetary Policy and Economic Crisis - Essay Example One of the most important responsibilities for the Fed is that of ensuring monetary stability in the economy, which can be achieved through a combination of stable prices of goods and services across the economy coupled with a low inflation level and level of confidence of the investors in the currency of the country. The Fed comes out with monetary policy in order to ensure a certain key objectives like delivering price stability with a low inflation level coupled with an objective to support the Government's economic objectives of growth and employment. To understand how the Fed monitors price related regulations to keep a check on inflation, we may consider a small example of the regulation of house and property prices. To take any decisions related to interest rates keeping in mind the ongoing inflation rate, the Fed must be thorough with the booming property prices and must take steps to ensure that the prices are not artificial. Government intervenes through its central bank to regulate the prices of many commodities, similarly it also regulates the prices of houses like any other important commodity. Fed has the responsibility to keep a check on asset prices including the prices of houses. ... (Demand and Supply for Housing).Other reasons behind a change in property prices can be Mortgages. A mortgage is the money borrowed to buy a house, as for most people buying a house is not easy. Over the years mortgage market has picked up greatly and the current scenario is totally different from the one that existed in the beginning. Mortgages were supplied only by the building societies. Building societies were non-profit institutions and encouraged only the members for the grant of loans, so the people who were members and had contributed to an extent for a considerable period of time got loans easily and account with building societies became the only means to get mortgages. Soon these societies had to compete with the banks and other financial institutions specialized in granting housing loans. This price war resulted in a greater demand for owner occupied houses and consequently the demand for houses grew stronger, resulting in a substantial increase in price. (The UK Housing Market - Factors Influencing the Housing Market: Mortgages) Besides the above-mentioned factor of mortgages there are other factors like stamp duty and planning that affect the market for housing. Mortgage interest relief at source (MIRAS) was a tax concession to owning a house. It reduced the house owner's liability to income tax as the money spent on the interest on mortgage was considered to be tax-free. This made borrowings cheaper and as a result there was a huge demand for housing and the prices shot up. With the introduction of MIRAS in 1990 many people were exempted from stamp duty. (The UK Housing Market - Factors Influencing the Housing Market: Stamp Duty and Planning) The central bank sets a fixed interest

The distinction between income and capital is notoriously difficult.' Essay

The distinction between income and capital is notoriously difficult.' Discuss. Is it possible to remove the need for distingu - Essay Example 1The significant difference in the taxation of the two is that income is a direct tax derived from the dividends, business interests, and pensions while capital gains tax is only levied on the profits made from the assets. The capital gains tax is applied when one gains profit in comparison to the income tax that is applied on every income obtained. Income tax is applied in a progressive approach where the rich pay more and the poor get a moderate tax on the income they obtain. In this type of approach the more one gets in income the more they pay in taxes. Since it is a key government revenue producer, income tax is one of the reliable taxes the governments use to gain money to run the governments. It becomes difficult to gain the definition of the two since they are closely tied. Consider an individual earning a salary of ?30000 pounds and decides to save after taxation making the savings capital for a rainy day. Since the capital will gain profits, the profits become taxable via t he gain they accrued. On the other hand, the individual may choose to save through investment of the income after tax. Consequently, the gain in the investment is income and this becomes taxable. Therefore, one can be double- taxed if they are not keen on the type of investment they make. This proves that the line defining the two is very thin to make a perfect distinction of the two paradigms. In another case of the law shipping and the Odeon theatres, the case proves to be a hard distinction of the revenue and capital tax description. The Law Shipping case was apprehensive through a corporation, which acquired a ship in unfortunate state of repair for ?97,000. The firm then uses the ship in its existing circumstances of renovates for an expedition, and then makes the repairs valued at ?51,558. The corporation then claims costs of the maintenance as an income expense. The claim is dismissed in court and the decision upheld. The Court signified that maintenance would frequently be r eturns outgoing, even if the care for the vessel was delayed for an extensive time. Preservation may be effected at a time where the firm feels it viable and feasible for the business but, in either case, they strictly comprise a persistently frequent occurrence of that nonstop service of the vessel that makes maintenance essential. They are for this reason an acceptable deduction in working out income, and, as is disclosed in the litigation. In relation to the Odeon Cinema, the theatre was obtained with similar maintenance deficits but that did not stop the acquiring of the facility but the difference in the two cases the theatre could be used without repairs for a while unlike the expedition of the law shipping conducts. However, the maintenance costs did not alter the cost accrued from buying the vessel. Therefore, the evidence points out the repairs as an income account. Corporation taxes are both taxed together but in fact, underlying that, they are each calculated separately u nder rules  of income and capital makes them different from the common taxation bracket. This is due to the aspect presented by the corporation where it cannot be taxed as mere legal fiction. The corporation is taxed under different rule due to its nature of accruing benefits. More importantly is the harmonization of the corporate tax for the avoidance of the double taxation a shareholder receives since they are taxed through the company and the dividends are subjected to

The US and Arab-Israeli Diplomacy - 2 exam questions (4 pages each) Essay

The US and Arab-Israeli Diplomacy - 2 exam questions (4 pages each) - Essay Example Ambassadors to the various Middle Eastern countries. The Special Envoy will travel from country to country in the Middle East to achieve the American Agenda in the region. The United States’ position on the Israeli-Arab relations has always been important. The U.S. has backed Israel since Israel became a state. Support for Israel allows the U.S. an ally in the Middle East that has a similar democracy. Saudi Arabia is an U.S. ally, but since Saudi Arabia is a monarch Israel is a more favorable choice. Still the U.S. must not anger the majority of Arab nations in the Middle East, especially since the heavy U.S. military presence in Iraq and Afghanistan. The balance between doing what is right morally by promoting a democratic society and securing a good relationship with oil producing countries is the delicate balance an American Special Envoy must master. In order to achieve the balance of American interests, the Special Envoy has to negotiate with both the Israelis and Arabs. The United States Envoy to Israel must have special qualifications. Without the right qualification an envoy could harm not only Israeli-Arab relations, but harm U.S.-Israel-Arab relations at best and at worst plunge the whole region into a war. Qualifications all U.S. Envoys need are: Any Special Envoy appointed to Israel must address the Palestinian issue. Since Israel withdrew from Gaza, the Palestinians have elected Hamas to be Gaza’s leaders. Since Hamas has been recognized as the United States as a terrorist group, all talks are through the Palestinian National Authority. If Hamas would make concessions, the United States would consider opening talks through the Special Envoy. The recommended plan since 2001’s Mitchell Report for both Israel and Palestinians have been threefold: 2. Rebuilding of confidence in the Palestinian Authority (now the Palestinian National Authority). This

Poverty and Pollution Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Poverty and Pollution - Case Study Example In this case, ethical implications lies in the fact that businesses are using the third world countries for their own financial gain, at the expense of the people and environment of the host third world country. However, ethics dictate that any successful business should work within the existing framework of regulations for the benefit of all parties involved, which includes environment and local people. Furthermore, businesses that cause pollution only cater after their own interests and leave people to suffer the consequences of pollution. Moreover, strict ethical laws and regulations in the third world countries business sector has considerable impact relating to financial gains emanating from the said businesses due to the costs affiliated. This is because a country is not willing to let go of the revenue, hence, native people are left suffering the consequences of environmental exploitation and pollution in the quest for wealth. In addition, some of the mother countries of these businesses polluting the environment tend to be powerful and include handsome packages to the third-world governments, which are in return for unregulated exploitation of resources without limitations and liabilities. In addition, businesses operating in third world countries have a number of grounds to disregard pollution standards. One of the reasons leading to this problem would be weak regulations governing pollution menace in the developing countries. These weak guidelines facilitate businesses to disregard the law because little can be done to penalize them for their unethical acts. Thus, there is little to be lost by the said company as compared to countries with strict environmental pollution laws. Moreover, laws play a crucial role in the response of environmental agencies responsible for tackling these environmental issues. This is because weak laws do not foster law enforcement, thus, low motivation and increased pollution crimes in third world countries (Amnesty Interna tional, 2009). Corruption cannot to be left behind, as it is a critical aspect, this is in terms of regulation; where those charged with responsibility receive bribes from companies to allow pollution blatantly (â€Å"New A.T. Kearney...†, 2000). In addition, the issue of penalties leads to total disregard for standards of pollution control. This is in terms of leniency and harshness while punishing violators of these standards as they set examples to be emulated and followed. In this regard, companies that are leniently penalized have a possibility of repeating the same offence, as the income is much higher than the penalty. Besides, it could be cheaper to pay the penalty than follow the set guidelines. As a result, businesses may opt for the cheapest way out by maximizing their profits at the expense of conserving the environment. Pollution, economic growth and development all have a close relationship with each other since according to common belief, pollution is the price of progress, and that the cost of development is almost directly proportional to the resultant pollution in terms of industrial waste and pollutant material. This is evident in the case of china that doubled its Gross Domestic Product by over five times, and the results are a sharp rise environmental pollution, ecological destruction and increased carbon dioxide emissions (ZhiDong,

Corporate strategy - from the point of Le Meridien cross-nationally Essay

Corporate strategy - from the point of Le Meridien cross-nationally - Essay Example Companies’ at this crunch stage adopt a safe way to hold their businesses. JB implemented an unconventional thought to draw revenues at all the prosperities. JB with his two strategies â€Å"Arch & tech† and â€Å"Treasure hunt† may not be effective as the prevailing marketing conditions do not drive the customers to use the hospitality services. The initiative â€Å"Arch & Tech† requires a considerable amount of investment to renovate the properties according to the lavish requirement of the theme which is not advisable at the point where there are no takers for property. The amount of time needed for establishing the properties according to the expectations of the initiative are more and the promotional cost add to this affair. As per the time frame of 3 years the first priorities should be to retain and uphold the key service aspects that are well accepted in the customer segments. The two new initiatives may not be well accepted by the property owners and other key managing director of different regions with respect to a particular country. The new initiatives may not consider the local customs and traditions. The initiatives if implemented may not promise the expected customer turn out as we cannot estimate the level of acceptance for the service ambience. Hospitality is more related to the movement of truth created by the ambience and service rendered by employees. So, JB as a CEO hasn’t mentioned any initatives to uphold the employees’ moral in tough times and to encourage them to stick to the company and strive for its progress. Employee satisfaction may have been given a miss in JB’s

Civil liberties during war-time Essay Example for Free

Civil liberties during war-time Essay Civil Liberties are for example freedom of speech and freedom of the press as defined by the first amendment. These freedoms have been challenged by the threat of war, but should they be taken away because of it? The first amendment states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. These are our civil liberties that we are promised as citizens of the U.S. In the past these liberties have been interfered with. The main cause for this interference was war. The government wanted to abolish any chances of treason or leaking of information to the enemies and to do this they passed act such as the Alien and Sedition Acts. The Alien and Sedition Acts made it illegal to write, print, speak, or publish anything false or untrue about to United States. We can understand how certain precautions must be made to insure safety in times of war but to go so far as to take away our freedoms are out of bounds. There are numerous other ways to make us safe without interfering with our liberties. For example: tighter security. After 9/11 security became very tight at airports and other areas where terrorists might be able to enter the country. Although this extra security was tedious and time consuming to get through, it was well within the lines of the 1st amendment because it did not take away any of our freedoms. I do not believe that our civil liberties should be taken away during wartime. This is a democracy and should remain one whether engaged in war or not. The government can think of more ways to protect us other than limiting our freedoms of speech or of the press, and certainly without interfering with our privacy unless there is just cause to do so.

Relationship between extraversion and neuroticism and bullying

Relationship between extraversion and neuroticism and bullying My aim for this current study was to investigate whether there was a relationship between extraversion and neuroticism and bullying. In my opinion I think someone who has an extraversion and neuroticism personality that gets bullied will have an opposite side at the end of it. These are the two hypotheses for this  report, if there will be a relationship between extraversion scores and self reported  frequency of bullying in the last five years. And also, if there will be a relationship between neuroticism  scores and self reported frequency of bullying in the last five years. The experimenter wanted to find out if there is a relationship between extraversion and neuroticism and bullying in the last five years. The results have shown there was no connection; the importance of the work was to find out whether there was any relationship between the three variables. Next time of the experimenter should investigate again they should do it less than five years, they might be a better results. Introduction There are many researchers that have looked at the subject bullying that can link to their personalities. Personality is made up the characteristic patterns of feelings, thoughts and behaviour. This makes the person a unique person. Personality occurs from within the persons and remains fairly consistent throughout life. There are a number of different theories that have emerged to explain different aspects of personality. Some are focused on explaining how personality develops while others are concerned with the person in personality. There are major theories of personality projected by different psychologist such as Eysencks Three Dimensions of Personality, Gordon Allports Trait Theory, and the Five-Factor Theory of Personality. Eysencks Three Dimensions of Personality, his theory was biased on the three universal traits; introversion/extraversion, introversion includes attention on inner experiences while extraversion relates to attention outer on other people and the environment. When a person is high in introversion might be quit, shy and reserved while a person in high extraversion might be social able and outgoing. Neuroticism /Emotional Stability, this dimension of Eysencks theory is related to people who are moodiness, aggressive towards people. Neuroticism refers to an individual trend to become more upset and emotional while stability refers to the trend to remain emotionally stable. And psychoticism, Eysenck added this personality at the end to this trait theory. People who are high in this trait tend to have differently dealing with reality and may be hostile and manipulative. Lewis Goldberg projected a five dimension personality model, this is also known as the Big Five. His five personalities are Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness and Neuroticism. The big five is an important dimension of personality. Some personality researchers disagree that this list of major traits is the end. They have found two additional factors, excellent/ordinary and evil/decent but they are still not sure yet. Its a comprehensive, data driven research finding. It identifies the traits and structure of the humans personality this has been one of the goals in all of psychology. This personality typology has some phase of a trait theory. It explains peoples behaviour in terms of opposite fixed character. Bullying is a serious offence that anyone can make. This mostly happens is schools, workplaces, and on the streets. Some ways of bullying is by calling them names, not talking to them, hitting and kicking them, taking or damaging their things, etc. People that bully is to get attention or to make people afraid of them, others might be jealous of the person they are bullying because they might have been bullied themselves. Bullying can cause a serious side affect, it can changes someones personality and behaviour. It can make young people feel lonely, unhappy and frightened; they lose confidence and make them sick. There are three variables that are linked together which are extraversion, neuroticism and bullying. There are two types of personalities that people who are bullied are likely to be, which are extraversion and neuroticism. Extraversion is people who are loud, talkative, fun-loving and sociable. They take more part in activities that involve large social gathering such as community activities, parties, public demonstrations etc. An extroverted person is likely to enjoy time with people and find less reward in time spent alone. They tend to be eager around other people, and they are more prone to boredom when they are by themselves. As soon as they get bullied they are most likely to become quite, passive and introverted and they will have low self esteem. Those who are neuroticism has a personality trait, individuals who score high on neuroticism are more likely than the average to experience such feelings as anger, guilt, moody, depressed. They react more badly to environmental stre ss, and are more likely to take ordinary situations as threatening and minor frustration as hopelessly difficult. Neuroticism is related with low emotional intelligence which involves emotional system and interpersonal skills. But its a risk factor for mental disorder such as depression, panic attacks and phobia. Methods Participate There will be 119 psychology level one university students who participated in this experiment. There will be 89 females and 23 males voluntary participates that will be involved. The mean age of the participates is 21 years old. The standard deviation is 6.381 and the age range of the participates is 18-27 years old. Design A correlational design was used. Its a measuring between two variables which are extraversion and neuroticism. Where going to find out if the correlation is going to be negative or positive. Material/Apparatus There will be questionnaires given out to the students on an A4 paper. Procedure Participates be present at an experimental session were given full instructions about their task. The experimenter gave the questionnaires out to the individuals; it took them 20 minutes to fill in the answers. After they filled in the answers they gave it back to the experimenter. Participants were reminded of what to do before being presented with the word lists. BPS codes of ethics have to be proceeded at all times to hide the personal information. The BPS codes of ethics for this experiment is privacy, they need to keep the questionnaires data private and confidential. Results The relationship I found between extraversion scores and self reported frequency of bullying in the last five years had no correlation. It was found that the relationship between bullying for extraversion was not significantly correlational (R=127, p= 0.16, n= 119). Also the relationship I found between neuroticism scores and self reported frequency of bullying in the last five years. The results for neuroticism was shown it had no positive correlation (R= 0.14, p= 0.12, n= 119). The data collected showed no relationship between extraversion and bullying, or neuroticism and bullying in the last five years. Discussion The relationship between extraversion, neuroticism and bullying is a topic in psychology. It was hypothesised that participates who were bullied might have been extraversion people or neuroticism people. The results that were collected from this experiment didnt show any correlation and didnt support the hypothesis. The hypothesis was rejected in my opinion because there was no correlation found between the 3 variable this might be due to many reasons, such as the source of material for example the questionnaires, it might of not been accurate that reflected the individuals personality. Also, the participates may not have been honest, they would have got bored and just ticked any box. As Eysenck looked into the interaction of the two personalities and what they meant in the regard to various psychological problems. For example that people with phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder be likely to be quite introverted, whereas people with conversion disorders or dissociative disorders tend to be more extraverted. Highly neuroticistic people over-respond to fearful stimuli; If they are introverts, they will learn to avoid the situations that cause panic very quickly and very thoroughly, even to the point of becoming panicky at small symbols of those situations they will develop phobias. Other introverts will learn (quickly and thoroughly) particular behaviours that hold off their panic such as checking things many times over or washing their hands again and again. The advantages for this report was there was quite a lot of volunteers taking part in the questionnaires, no one got offended with the questions that were given, and also there was no problem finding information about the theories as they were lots of information that was found. The disadvantages for this report was, it took time looking for the information what I needed. There wasnt much to explain about the results. In the future the areas that I would need to work on is, to find more resources such as journals. The experimenter should have chosen volunteers from other courses as well to prove that bullying can concern from everywhere. Reference section Matthew. G (2003), Personality Traits, University of Cambridge Press, 3-75 G.Neil Martin, Neil. R. Carlson, Willam Buskist, 2010

Integrated Pests Management: A Safe Alternative to Hazardous Pesticide

Integrated Pests Management: A Safe Alternative to Hazardous Pesticides       The well being of our everyday day lives are affected by the agriculture industry.   For many years now we have been using pesticides to control the pest population in our crops.   Over the years research has shown that pesticides can cause fatal diseases like cancer.   Pests are also becoming resistant to pesticides.   It is time that we find a new way to rid of pests.   A program called the Integrated Pests Management is doing so and many growers have begun to use their tactics. Pesticides have been known to cause a number of diseases in humans as well as animals.   The most vulnerable to these diseases and side effects are infants.   Pesticides effect infants the most because the structures of their body systems are not fully developed.   Parents don’t use adult doses of drugs to their children. In contrast, the EPA allows infants and children to eat adult approved doses of pesticides that have not been evaluated in terms of safety for infants and young children.   Infants and children react differently to many drugs and toxic substances.   An example of this is Aspirin.   Aspirin can cause Reyes syndrome (a condition that kills 80 percent of its victims) in children and teenagers, but it does not cause this condition in adults (Cook, 2). Children are at the greatest risk to pesticides.   The national Cancer Institute USA found an increase risk of leukemia in children whose parents used pesticides in the home garden.   Children are commonly exposed to hundreds of pesticides in food, meanwhile, the incidence rate of childhood brain cancer and childhood leukemia continues to rise (Ries, 93).   â€Å"The reason that children are at risk the most is because ever... ...th. Pesticides in Food, Environmental Working Group,   http://www.ewg.org/pub/home/reports/Baby-food/Baby.html Elkins, E.R. Effect of commercial processing on pesticide residues in selected fruits and vegetables. Journal of the Associated of Official Analytical Chemists, 1989 Ries, L., et al.1993. Cancer in Children, SEER Cancer Statistics Review. U.S. Department   of Health and Human and Human Sevices. Washington, D.C. 1990 Sorensen, A. Proceedings of the National Integrated Pest Management Forum, June 17-19,   1992. American Farmland Trust Center for Agriculture in the Environment.   Arlington, VA, 1992 United States Environmental Protection Agency: Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic   Substances, For Your Information: EPA Efforts to Encourage Alternatives   To Traditional Chemical Pest Control, Washington, D.C., March 1993            

Scientology Essay example -- essays research papers

Scientology is a fairly new religion. Founded in the twentieth-century by a man by the name of L. Ron Hubbard. He began his studies long ago and wrote a book in 1950 called Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. He claimed that this book was one of the first tools used to solve the problems of the mind. This book focused on irrational mind, war, crime, and insanity. Mr. Hubbard designed this book so that anyone can use it to improve oneself. He did not stop at Dianetics, however, he felt that there were still some issues that had to be addressed. He was now going to try to figure out the nature of the human being, what makes up our â€Å"being.† Mr. Hubbard combined religion, philosophy, and his theory of dianetics and came up with Scientology. Mr. Hubbard had a unique life. He was born in Tilden, Nebraska, the son of a naval commander Harry Ross Hubbard and Ledora May Hubbard. L. Ron Hubbard was born on March 13, 1911. When he was about two his family moved to Montana where he learned to be a rough western cowboy. His mother was thoroughly educated woman. She taught him how to read and write at an early age. L. Ron Hubbard was said to have an avid interest in life at an early age. When his father’s naval career required that they move away from Montana, his mother was responsible to teach him the schooling he missed. When Ron was twelve the family moved to Seattle, Washington. Ron got the liberty to be associated with many different types of people such as the Blackfoot Indians, Beijing magician, Chinese magicians, and studying Buddhists. He enrolled at George Washington University, his father put him into mathematics and engineering. Now he learned how to take the scientific approach to solving problems. He became more and more interested in the way the mind works. He would ask the professors at George Washington University and they could not give him an answer, so he came up with the idea that the western culture did not understand a thing about the mind. He believed that it was his duty to explore the mind and to tell the western world how it works. This is when he came up with dianetics and then eventually the religion of scientology. Scientology consists of eight dynamics. With these dynamics, a person realizes that his life extends beyond himself. The first dynamic is â€Å"self.† This teaches you to survive as an individual. Taking care of such thi... ... deal with life here on earth and teaches people how to become better people. Improving conditions here on earth is the foremost important thing to fix. Scientology seems to address this issue with full force. It uses modern technology, and knowledge of how human relations to improve the quality of life of people who chose to follow Scientology. In the description of L. Ron Hubbard, I was disgusted. They made it sound like he was this extremely smart guy. When he started studying the mind and the way it works, he noticed that the western society knew nothing about it. He sounded pompous when he said â€Å"it was very obvious that I was dealing with and living in a culture which knew less about the mind than the lowest primitive tribe I had ever come in contact with†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I did not like this at all. He sounds like a very arrogant man. Arrogant in a cocky way. In doing research I noticed that all of his followers seem to have the same attitude. I find that it is funny that they are so dedicated to following a man who was born in the twentieth-century. He is an ordinary man who happened to be exceptionally smart. He is a business man who is good at persuading people and wants to make money.

Intelligence is Key Essay examples -- Art, Celtic Literature

Celtic literature features a full complement of female characters that deserve recognition; from warriors and rulers, to helpmates and daughters. Female characters, like their male counterparts, are often motivated by emotion. The Morrà ­gan and Macha, act out of anger, disrupting a hero or cursing generations to come. Others such as Fà ºamnach, act out of jealousy, causing a chain of events to unfold. However, the women who incite or prompt action due to their intelligence or wit – Rhiannon, Emer, Medb, Nes, and Mac Daa Tho’s Wife – are arguably the most complex and intriguing. Rhiannon purposefully, and with thought, gains the attention of the King Pywll and uses him to avoid an unwanted marriage. Rhiannon appears to King Pywll and his retainers halfway through branch one of The Mabigoni, on three consecutive days, riding a horse that even-paced cannot be caught. On the third day, Pwyll himself rides after her, only able to catch up after requesting her to wait. They begin conversing, and in a single exchange Rhiannon both declares love for Pwyll, and announces her engagement to another. She temps him: â€Å"I have never desired any man, and that because of loving you†, then announces her unavailability (â€Å"Pwyll,† 45). Rhiannon essentially ensnares Pwyll, allying herself with him and ensuring he will go against her current suitor, Gwawl son of Clud. This strong female character even directs Pwyll’s actions in attaining her hand. When her former suitor arrives at her wedding, Pywll rashly promises anything he wants, not knowing the man’s identity. Rhiannon rebukes Pwyll: "Never has a man been more feeble-witted than you,† then lays out three-part plan to ensure that Gwawl shall never attain her (Ford, 46). This intelligent woman ... ...ces that: â€Å"Sleeplessness has come to Macc Da Thà ³Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s house/ He has need of advice but speaks to no one† (Gantz, 181). She suggests that her mind may comprehend what his cannot, and he tells her his blunder, that he promised the hound to two. She suggests that he â€Å"give the dog to both sides- [and] let them fight over it,† (Gantz, 181). This would prevent one party from picking up the hound, and then the other party arriving and attacking him in anger. Though her plan does not go as hoped, she does offer a solution, and protects her husband from blame (the two parties are too engrossed with each other). Celtic mythology features a full complement of women who play an important role. Rhiannon, Emer, Medb, Nes, and Mac Daa Tho’s Wife use their intelligence to help further themselves, to enable those they love, or to protect. They create kings, heroes and alliances.

One Country, Two Systems

One country, two systems â€Å"One country, two systems† is an idea originally proposed by Deng Xiaoping, then Paramount Leader of the People's Republic of China (PRC), for the reunification of China during the early 1980s. He suggested that there would be only one China, but areas such as Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan could have their own capitalist economic and political systems, while the rest of China uses the â€Å"socialist† system. However, Deng rejected the proposed use of such a system for territories that are already under de facto PRC rule, such as Tibet.In the following research paper, the topic will be discussed in two different perspectives, both Hong Kong and Macau. Hong Kong Hong Kong's stability and continued development as an international city since reunification in July 1997 have depended upon the successful implementation of the principle of ‘One Country, Two Systems'. This framework ensures that Hong Kong retains its distinct identity and stren gths as an international business, financial, shipping and aviation centre.The ‘four pillars' of Hong Kong's success remain as relevant and important today as they did five, 10 or 15 years ago. These are: the common law system upheld by an independent judiciary; the free and unfettered flow of information; a level playing field for business; and, a clean, respected civil service. The Basic Law, Hong Kong's constitutional document, has provided the constitutional basis upon which the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has continued to protect its capitalist system, as well as the way of life, the rights and freedoms of its residents.These include: equality before the law, private ownership of property, freedom of assembly, freedom of movement, freedom of religious belief, freedom of academic research and freedom to join trade unions. The courts continue to administer justice independently, while Hong Kong's own police, immigration, customs and excise and anti-corruption of ficers have remained responsible for maintaining law and order in the SAR. Hong Kong continues to maintain its previous economic system. It has maintained its renowned, business-friendly, low-tax system and its own currency, which has been linked to the US Dollar at a rate of US$1 to HK$7. 0 since October 1983. Mainland leaders have scrupulously adhered to a ‘hands off' approach, allowing Hong Kong people to administer their own affairs (except defense and foreign affairs) with the promised high degree of autonomy. As always, Hong Kong people have been quick to speak up if they have perceived that their rights and freedoms, or the systems underpinning Hong Kong society, are in any way being compromised or undermined. Hong Kong people have taken very seriously their role in shaping the SAR and the society in which they live.This has resulted in greater demands from the public and the legislature for an open, accountable and more efficient government. Hong Kong has continued to play an important role in international affairs. It remains an active member, in its own right using the name ‘Hong Kong, China', of the World Trade Organization, the World Customs Organization, the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) forum and the Asian Development Bank and as an associate member of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) of the United Nations.Hong Kong's presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Money Laundering in 2001-02 allowed the SAR to take a leading role in the international fight against terrorist financing in the wake of the September 11 terrorists attacks in the United States. At an Extraordinary Plenary Meeting, chaired by Hong Kong in Washington D. C. in late October 2001, the FATF's remit was expanded beyond money laundering to focus expertise on a world-wide effort to combat terrorist financing.A wide range of special recommendations adopted at the meeting will deny terrorists and their supporters ’ access to the international financial system. Representatives of the HKSAR Government have also continued to participate, as members of delegations of the People's Republic of China, in international organizations and conferences limited to states, such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Intellectual Property Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Telecommunications Union.There are more than 130 binding bilateral agreements between the HKSAR and over 50 countries throughout the world. Areas covered in these agreements include air services, visa abolition, investment promotion and protection, surrender of fugitive offenders, mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, transfer of sentenced persons, customs co-operation, and co-operation on information technology and avoidance of double taxation. Hong Kong has also entered into non-binding arrangements with other foreign states, regions and international organizations.The se arrangements are often in the form of a memorandum of understanding and cover a spectrum of topics from co-operation in information and communication technology, environmental protection to cultural exchanges. More than 200 multi-lateral treaties apply to the Hong Kong SAR (of which more than 80 do not apply to the Mainland). They cover many areas such as international crimes, private international law, customs, marine pollution, science and technology, civil aviation, merchant shipping, intellectual property, health, investment, trade and industry, postal services, labor issues, human rights, transport and telecommunications.Hong Kong is home to a large consular corps and several important international organizations. At the end of March 2002, there were 55 consulates general in Hong Kong, 46 honorary consuls and six semi-officials missions. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the European Union, and the Bank for International Settlements, the International Moneta ry Fund and the International Finance Corporation/World Bank all maintain a presence in Hong Kong. Five years after 1997, ‘One Country, Two Systems' is firmly in place and ‘Hong Kong people running Hong Kong' is part of everyday life.With the election of the Chief Executive by an electoral college, a fully-elected legislature and an aggressive, critical media, government operations and policies have been subjected to increasing public scrutiny and pressure. In his Policy Address in October 2001, the Chief Executive Mr. Tung Chee Hwa outlined the government's initial thinking on ways to improve the system of accountability for senior officials. Detailed plans to take effect from July 1, 2002 were subsequently unveiled by Mr. Tung on April 17, 2002.The new system is designed to more clearly define the roles, powers and responsibilities of top government officials. It would also build on the civil service's existing strengths such as permanency, professionalism, neutrality, efficiency and freedom from corruption. Under the present government structure, civil servants play a critical role in the governing team. Policies are formulated by Directors of Bureau (often referred to as Policy Secretaries) and endorsed by the Executive Council (ExCo).Legislation and public expenditure relating to such policy initiatives needs to be scrutinized and passed by LegCo before being implemented by various bureau and departments. During this process, Directors of Bureau have inevitably taken on a political role, which does not gel with the traditional role of the civil service. Civil servants are generally employed on permanent terms. The question is how to improve accountability while at the same time recognize the importance of an impartial, permanent civil service. The new system of accountability announced by Mr.Tung aims to solve this conundrum. Under the new system, the Chief Secretary for Administration, the Financial Secretary, the Secretary for Justice and Di rectors of Bureau will no longer be civil servants but will be appointed on contract terms. They will be accountable to the Chief Executive for the success or failure of matters falling within their portfolios. Significantly, they will all be appointed to the Executive Council to play a direct role in the process of deciding on government policies as well as collectively allocating the resources within the government as a whole.Because of this, government's work will become more streamlined and efficient. This will also provide a better co-ordination in the formulation and implementation of policies. These new Principal Officials will assist the Chief Executive in developing and shaping policies, overseeing the implementation of policies, monitoring the delivery of services by executive departments and explaining developments within their portfolios to gain public support. They will respond to LegCo questions, introduce bills and take part in LegCo motion debates.They will attend me etings of LegCo Panels, subcommittees and committees to participate in discussions on important policies. The new accountability system is consistent with the Basic Law under which Principal Officials are nominated by the Chief Executive for appointment by the Central People's Government. At the policy bureau level they will be supported by Permanent Secretaries, very experienced senior civil servants, in analyzing and defending policies, steering executive departments and managing human and financial resources.Below the policy bureau level, various departments will remain responsible for implementing policies and delivering public services. With a clearer definition of roles, these Principal Officials will operate at the political level while civil servants will be loyal to the government of the day and maintain political neutrality. The merits of the new system are that the Principal Officials' roles and responsibilities are better defined and that they will need to be more accoun table to enlist the support of the legislature and the public.The new system responds to increasing public calls for a higher degree of accountability for principal officials, while maintaining the structure, role and ethos of the civil service. The civil service system will remain intact and there will continue to be a permanent, stable, meritocratic, professional and politically neutral civil service. The new group of Principal Officials will proactively gauge public opinion and strengthen communication with the public to gain a better understanding of community needs and to devise policies fulfilling these needs.They will work more closely with the legislature, proactively seek the views of LegCo members and strengthen communication with the LegCo to ensure a better working relationship between the Executive and Legislature. The new Principal Officials will be able to focus more attention on public demands and needs, and will be able to operate free from the restrictions imposed on civil servants. Macau The development of Macao since its return to the motherland demonstrated the strong vitality of the â€Å"one country, two systems† concept, said Edmund Ho Hau Wah, chief executive of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) in a special press interview.The concept was proposed by then Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping in the early 1980s for the reunification of China. Under the mechanism, Macao retained its capitalist systems after returning to the motherland on Dec. 20, 1999. The per capita GDP of Macao residents in 2008 reached 39,000 U. S. dollars, almost three times the average before its return, according to World Bank figures. The central government adopted a series of measures to support Macao's development.In two meetings with Edmund Ho Hau-wah in December 2008, President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao said the central government would fully support Macao in dealing with the challenges brought about by the global financial crisis. At the end of last year, the central government launched nine measures covering finance, infrastructure, and regional cooperation, funding Macao's small-and-medium-sized enterprises, ensuring Macao's food supply, to help Macao tide over the economic downturn and promote integration of the Pearl River Delta region, which includes Guangdong Province, Hong Kong and Macao.Macao's water supply is at risk of salinization due to drought upriver. The central government and Macao's neighboring province shave adopted relief measures, including the construction of hydroelectric projects to ensure the long-term supply of drinking water to Macao. Government statistics show more than 33 million mainland tourists have visited Macao since 2004 and have generated an estimated revenue of more than 100 billion patacas (12. 66 billion U. S. dollars) — gambling revenue excluded.Under the support of the central government, Macao's land area has increased from 22 square kilometers before its return to about 30 square kilometers. In June, the ninth session of the Standing Committee of China's11th National People's Congress (NPC) passed a bill giving the Macao SAR jurisdiction over a new campus of the University of Macao on Hengqin Island, which was originally part of the southern mainland city of Zhuhai. In 2007, Macao implemented a 15-year free education system, which will run from kindergarten to senior high school. From my own experience, for the past 10 years, the central government has been strictly adhering to the principle of ‘one country, two systems' and the Basic Law of the Macao SAR. The central government has not interfered the inner affairs of the SAR,† said Edmund Ho Hau Wah. After its return to the motherland, Macao successfully held Ministerial Conferences of the Forum on Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries in2003 and 2006 and the East Asian Games in 2005.With the support of the central government, the historic center o f Macao, which is home to more than 20 unique sites demonstrating the assimilation and co-existence of Chinese and Western cultures, has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. â€Å"Since the founding of the Legislative Assembly of Macao Special Administrative Region, Macao has enjoyed complete legislative power and has enacted and amended more than 100 laws, which was quite unimaginable when it was ruled by the Portuguese,† said assembly president Lau Cheok Va.An election committee, responsible for electing the chief executive of Macao SAR, is composed of representatives from a wide range of sectors including industrialists, unionists, public service workers, religious figures and politicians. Dr. Leonel Alberto Alves, a legislator and â€Å"Macaense†(a Portuguese expression for Macao-born Portuguese or Macao-born person of Portuguese and Chinese or of Portuguese and another Asian ethnic group), said an estimated 20,000 â€Å"Macaense† lived in Macao and their rights were fully safeguarded and customs respected since Macao's return to the motherland.Overall, our view remains that the concept of ‘One Country, Two Systems' is an everyday reality in Hong Kong. The rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, which are so vital to Hong Kong's success, are being upheld. Essential rights and freedoms are being protected, and challenges to them fully and freely debated. — UK Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Mr.Jack Straw, Six-monthly Report on Hong Kong, July-December 2001, presented to the British Parliament, March 2002 Most Western analysts conclude today that the ‘One Country, Two Systems' has permitted Hong Kong to maintain its unique character. Long-term success depends on preserving the quality and integrity of Hong Kong's outstanding cadre of civil servants, the rule of law and an independent judiciary†¦ — US Speaker's Task Force on the Hong Kong Transition, Ninth Repo rt, January 30, 2002

Dark Time

Theodore Roethke is one of America’s premier poets, ranking alongside Robert Frost, Walt Whitman, and Carl Sandburg. His 1964 poem â€Å"In A Dark Time† is both disturbing and challenging as a man veers on the edge of sanity through an outdoor experience. Roethke demonstrates through subject and form that he is a master poet, reflecting the deep inner sense of self that can portray such emotions without being reduced to cliche or juvenilia. The title of the poem—â€Å"In A Dark Time†Ã¢â‚¬â€is the first clue that all is not well in Roethke’s universe.It is the primary indicator that the poem speaks to the troubled half of life. In many ways one is reminded of Robert Frost’s â€Å"Acquainted With the Night,† which conveys a deeper metaphor of depression in its surface-simple account of insomnia. â€Å"In A Dark Time† speaks volumes about the poem that will follow. Roethke relies on a single simile in this poem, although it is rep lete with metaphor. In the last stanza, he says his soul is â€Å"like some heat-maddened summer fly† buzzing on the windowsill.One can instantly picture the frantic action of such a fly, its nervous bouncing, ticking and constant action. His soul, being like this, is perpetually agitated. But Roethke has established this interpretation through the metaphor of the dark woods; a place where is soul has been caught out in the middle of the day, yet plunged in darkness. He is lost here, wondering whether something ahead is shelter (the cave) or further travail (merely a bend in the path). He sees himself dancing on the edge physically and metaphorically.In the first two stanzas, Roethke personifies his shadow, an image that most people perceive as a dark figure to begin with. Roethke expands the idea of his shadow to incorporate the darker nature of his self. He meets his shadow in the deepening shade, giving the reader a sense that he is meeting the darkest part of his inner se lf at a time when the depths of his depression have encompassed him. As with most people, Roethke relates a realistic happening as most people only reflect upon their lives in their darkest hours (â€Å"In a dark time, the eye begins to see†).In the last stanza, Roethke personifies his fear. (â€Å"A fallen man, I climb out of my fear†). As many know, fear is not a physical entity that can be ascended or descended. In this case, however, Roethke’s fear (â€Å"his dark time†) has become such an overwhelming reality to him that, in order to emerge from the depths of his struggle, Roethke sees this ascent as a physical act. Reading the line in full, the reader gets a sense that Roethke has actually fallen into an abyss known as fear.

Study On Biomass Power Plant Environmental Sciences Essay

Power coevals from biomass stuff is going one of the most promising options to the established power workss based on fossil fuels such as coal or natural gas. Biomass Ok, so, biomass is defined as any organic stuff derived from workss, that is available on a renewable footing. These stuffs are by and large known as biomass feedstocks and include: Wood: from forestry fixingss ( foristri – the scientific discipline of caring for woods, and the trees and other workss that grow in them ) or from wood treating systems ( production of wood merchandises, such as mush and paper, building stuffs ) . Energy harvests which are harvests grown specifically for energy applications. Agricultural residues ( residius ) residues from agribusiness reaping or processing. Municipal Waste ( miunicipal ) which is residential, commercial, and institutional post-consumer waste such as waste paper, composition board, nutrient waste. And besides Animal Waste from farms and animal-processing industries. The production of electricity from biomass is described as a C impersonal engineering because when a new works is turning, it absorbs carbon dioxide from the ambiance to make glUcose utilizing energy from the Sun. When this works stuff is burned or decomposed by microorganisms the carbon dioxide is released back to the ambiance. These procedure is known as C rhythm which maintain the atmospheric CO2 degrees and has happened since there have been workss on Earth. Fossil fuels such as coal and gas are besides derived from biological stuff ; nevertheless this stuff absorbed CO2 from the atmosphere many 1000000s of old ages ago and when the dodo fuels are burned, this carbon dioxide is released to the ambiance increasing the natural atmospheric concentrations. The critical difference between biomass and fossil fuels is one of clip graduated table. There are presently two chief procedures used in power workss for the production of electricity from biomass: and they are direct burning and gasification. Direct burning is basically the incineration of dry biomass in the presence of air to bring forth heat. Gasification is a thermochemical transmutation of biomass at high temperature ( 700A °C to 1000A °C ) in the presence of a limited sum of O into a combustible gas which is called syngas and is a mixture composed of chiefly carbon monoxide ( CO ) and H ( H2 ) – C monoxide, H, C dioxide and methane. Now let ‘s see how these procedures are integrated into the biomass power workss. So in the first procedure: The heat produced by direct biomass burning in a boiler can be used to bring forth electricity utilizing a steam turbine in the same manner as in a coal-burning power works. This is a diagram of a typical biomass steam power works. The biomass is collected and taken to the power station. At the power station the biomass is fed into the boiler where it is burned. The heat from firing the biomass is used to boil H2O which generates steam that turns the turbines. The turbines are connected to generators. The generator spins and the mechanical energy is converted to electrical energy. Biomass is renewable as it is a C impersonal beginning of energy. When a works is designed for working merely with biomass it is called dedicated biomass power workss. However, biomass can be burned with coal in bing coal power workss. These are called co-firing workss and are one of the most cost-efficient agencies of change overing biomass to electricity at big graduated table. This method makes usage of the bing substructure of the coal works and therefore it reduces the entire investing. The different co-combustion design constructs are shown in this figure. Co-firing can be direct, with biomass and coal being fed into the same boiler, or indirect, where a pre-treatment like gasification is carried out prior to the burning in the chief unit. In parallel burning, biomass and coal burning are separate and the boilers are connected merely on the steam side. Presently most biomass electricity coevals is based on burning. The graduated table of operation is a really of import factor for the efficiency. The efficiency tends to be in the scope of 18 % to 33 % in systems bring forthing from 10 to 50 MW. The maximal efficiencies could make about 45 % in big graduated table workss bring forthing more than 100 MW. In co-firing workss, efficiency of 39 % can be reached. Now let ‘s speak about gasification in biomass power workss. A typical diagram of a biomass gasification procedure combined with power coevals is shown in this figure. In this illustration, biomass is first dried and so injected into the gasifier. The ensuing biogas is purified in a cleansing system. The purified biogas is so utilized in the conventional Combined – Cycle Gas Turbine ( CCGT ) power works, to bring forth electricity. The biogas produced in the gasification procedure can besides be used in burning engines ( 10 kilowatt to 10 MW ) with efficiency of 30 % -35 % . At larger graduated tables ( & gt ; 30 MW ) , where gasification-based systems are coupled with combined gas and steam turbines the efficiency increases up to about 45 % . There are two others procedures which can be used to bring forth electricity from biomass but they are still in a pre-commercial phase. The first of them is Pyrolysis which is a thermochemical decomposition of organic stuff at high temperatures 325A °C to 500A °C in the absence of O, bring forthing gas and liquid merchandises that could be used in power coevals units or upgraded to transport fuel. This procedure besides produces a carbon-rich residue called biochar and one of the of import facets of biochar is that it is a natural fertilizer that can be used to better dirts quality, which can potentially increase energy harvest productiveness. The 2nd one, anaerobiotic digestion is a natural biochemical procedure in which microorganisms interrupt down the organic stuff, in the absence of air, to bring forth biogas ( chiefly a mixture of around 60 % methane and 40 % C dioxide ) . Anaerobic digestion is a procedure suitable for utilizing wet biomass, organic waste or carnal waste to bring forth power coevals on site. There are a figure of engineerings that support the transition paths of biomass feedstocks into energy. Drying is the most important because High wet content needs to be reduced to increase the net calorific value of the biomass, besides to cut down conveyance costs, and to better burning efficiency and the overall economic sciences of the procedure. Biomass such as agricultural and forest residues can be left in tonss on the harvest home site for deceasing, but particularly in humid climes, or parts with heavy snow autumn, this will non be sufficient to acquire to really low ( & lt ; 20 % ) wet content. Covering biomass hemorrhoids with rainproof sheets is a common step that helps accomplish low wet content and avoids decay of the biomass. In some instances, biomass feedstocks need to be actively dried before transition into utile energy. This can be executable from an economic and environmental point of position if waste heat is used, but to utilize fossil energy for drying biomass is questionable from both an economic every bit good as sustainability point of position. Pelletisation and briquetting Both pelletisation and briquetting are commercially available engineerings to automatically compact biomass. Low quality wood is the major feedstock for production of wood pellets, whereas briquetting is normally used to distill agricultural residues. Pellets are frequently used for long-haul conveyance of fuels for big graduated table usage, for illustration for co-firing in coal discharged power coevals workss. Cleaning The gas obtained from gasification contains drosss and particulates that need to be removed before utilizing it in power workss, because these contaminations can lend to eroding, corrosion, and loss of strength in the gas turbine constituents. Conventional methods for taking contaminations from biogas typically rely on chemical or physical cleansing processes runing at temperatures of 38A °C or less. When cooled to this degree, about all of the steam nowadays in the syngas condenses and the contaminations are removed. But so the gas has to be reheated. So, this procedure is non effectual for gas power workss and that ‘s why there is another engineering that is comparatively new and is called Hot gas killing where the cleansing procedure is carried out at high temperature, so that cut down this efficiency loss and better the gasification works ‘s commercial viability. The disadvantages of the hot gas killing engineering are that operational experience is limited, it has higher costs, and it adds complexness to the procedure ; nevertheless, it is considered to be the technologically more advanced pick for new dedicated biomass workss. BECSS CCS engineering is chiefly discussed in the context of avoiding CO2 emanations from dodo fuels, but the this could besides be used in bioenergy transition workss. The thought behind bioenergy with CCS ( BECCS ) is that capturing and hive awaying the CO2 emitted during bioenergy coevals provides the possibility to take â€Å" impersonal † Carbon dioxide from the ambiance, therefore supplying negative emanations. CO2 impersonal procedure Clean and dependable power beginning if sufficient biomass is available Way to dispose waste stuffs that otherwise would make environmental hazards. Social and economic impacts are besides of import factors in the overall impact of bioenergy production. Bioenergy deployment has considerable possible to make employment in the agricultural and forestry sector and along the supply concatenation, and therefore to profit rural communities. This facet is peculiarly of import in developing states, where much of the population depends on agribusiness for their support. In these states, bioenergy frequently provides energy in rural countries, and there is considerable possible to heighten this function by bettering the efficiency of bioenergy usage and making new, sustainable supply systems for biomass feedstocks. Main barriers confronting enlargement of biomass for power coevals are high costs, low transition efficiency and feedstock handiness. As any new engineering, biomass power coevals requires presently in most instances some degree of fiscal support. In the long term, bio-power potency will depend on engineering progresss and on competition for feedstock usage, and with nutrient production for cultivable land usage. Long-distance transit reduces economic and environmental attraction of biomass. Hazards associated with extended usage of biomass relate to intensive agriculture, fertilisers and chemicals use and biodiversity preservation. Certifications that biomass feedstock is produced in a sustainable manner are needed to better credence of public wood and lands direction. The usage of energy from biomass day of the months back to the first clip a fire was lit from the burning of wood. Prior to the industrial revolution, biomass was used for all of our energy demands. Up until the 1880s wood was used for 91 % of all our energy requirements.A 1890. Coal began to displace wood used in steam coevals. 1980s. High oil monetary values and dependance created new involvement in biomass energy, biomass power workss were built in North America and a big biomass power industry rapidly developed in California. By 1985, California had 850 megawatts of installed biomass power capacity. 1990s. Governments take a greater involvement in utilizing renewable energy, such as biomass, to diminish nursery gases and other emanations. 2000. A study of 133 states by the International Energy Agency shows that the biomass portion of entire energy ingestion is 10.5 % Presently, bioenergy electricity is chiefly generated through steam power coevals, including co-firing workss. Electricity supply from biomass has been increasing bit by bit since 2000 and in 2010 biomass provided around ( 280 TWh ) 1.5 % of universe electricity production. Power coevals from biomass is still concentrated in developed states, but for illustration China and Brazil are besides going of import electricity manufacturers in peculiar from agricultural residues thanks to back up programmes. The theoretical accounts established in these states could besides go a feasible manner to advance bioenergy electricity coevals in other non-OECD states with similar conditions.†¦Harmonizing to the International Energy Agency roadmap, universe bioenergy electricity coevals will increase by more than 10 times from around 290 TWh in 2009 to 3100 TWh in 2050 and could supply around 7.5 % of universe electricity coevals, compared to 1.5 % today. The usage of biomass for power coevals v aries between parts, depending on biomass handiness, transition costs, and the handiness of alternate low-carbon energy beginnings. China histories for the largest portion ( 920 T Wh ) of entire bioenergy electricity coevals in 2050, followed by OECD Americas ( 520 T Wh ) . Other parts besides have considerable coevals degree in 2050 such as OECD Europe ( 370 T Wh ) , Other Developing Asia ( 570 T Wh, of which 250 TWh in India ) , Eastern Europe and former Soviet Union ( FSU ) ( 280 TWh, of which 170 TWh in Russia ) and Central and South America ( 240 T Wh, of which 190 TWh in Brazil ) , some ( e.g. Eastern Europe and FSU, China ) get downing from a really low footing.†¦

Psychology, IT and Individualism Essay

As information technology continues to develop with more people getting exposed to it, numerous changes are also taking place the field of psychology. Previously, many IT analysts frequently argued that psychology was taking longer than enough to implement and adopt technological advancements. However, recent researches indicate that the practices and methods applied in psychology have greatly transformed as a result of changes in information technology. First, the internet has been one of the major latest trends in psychology; it is highly associated with psychopathology (Wilson 2004). For instance, depression and loneliness have often been connected to the excess use of the internet since it results to addiction. Secondly, there is the use of information technology in counseling and psychotherapy. This is currently being done via the internet; this has resulted to some lack of privacy and confidentiality as well as loss of effectiveness in the practice since some important features such as facial expression and verbal expression has been lost (Wilson 2004). IT is also applied in research and development in psychology to enhance further growth and generation of useful knowledge. For instance, the authors of the current DSM IV-TR applied computerized criteria in revising the classification of disorders in the manual to come with a less flawless criterion of categorizing disorders and disabilities. Using IT, today’s psychotherapists have been able to make numerous improvements in the way through which they can reach, counsel and correspond with their clients (discussed in the next section) (Azucena, Hunter, 2001). The growth of Psychotherapy Psychotherapy refers to private individual counseling by professional psychotherapists. As a highly growing trend in psychology, psychotherapy is used by psychotherapists to assist them in developing deliberate interpersonal relationships with their clients as a strategy for helping the patient to improve their well being. The trend applies many modern techniques of building closer relationships with the patients such as face to face dialogues, home phone calls and regular visits of the therapist to the client (Azucena, Hunter, 2001). This trend is basically aimed at improving the mental health of the patient through interpersonal relationships. This represents a great shift in the nature of counseling psychology, psychiatry, occupational therapy, clinical psychology and other related fields in psychology. In essence, psychotherapy is not a new trend in the field of psychology since over the years, people have received private reassurance and counsel from others; what is new and becoming increasingly famous in psychology is the application of modern and deliberate professional techniques in psychotherapy. Such psychotherapeutic techniques include online counseling whereby a therapist handles client personally through creating client accounts where he can easily relate with the client on one-on-one(but not face-to-face) bases (Tredinnick, Fowers, 1999). Most of the new psychotherapeutic techniques are possible because of the advancements in the use of information technology in the field of psychology as discussed above. For instance, therapists encourage clients to use social networks to be able to communicate easily with them and their families. In addition, they also approve the use of phone calls whereby clients are free to call their physicians at any time of the day so that they can discuss their issues at convenience. However, modern psychotherapy is not without a number of flaws. Recently, concerns have greatly risen concerning the advancement of individualism in psychotherapy (Tredinnick, Fowers, 1999). Psychotherapy encourages individualism on both the therapist and the client. Individualism is a term used in psychology to refer to ways through which people recognize themselves only and concentrate on individual goals as opposed to collectivism. In this sense, psychotherapist no longer view psychotherapy as a collective discipline that require combined efforts with other experts in the field since they are in a position to carry out counseling and psychiatry without involving anybody else—they can visit their clients at home, chat with them online and make home phone class with them. This has resulted to a great decline in the success of psychology as a collective discipline (Tredinnick, Fowers, 1999; Azucena, Hunter, 2001). Conclusion The use IT in psychology and the advancement in psychotherapy are important developments in psychology and should be highly encouraged. However, it is upon therapists and other psychological professionals to ensure that this new trends are used effectively to prevent the decline evident in cooperation among professional bodies in the field of psychology due to individualism. References Azucena, P. G. , Hunter, H. G. (2001) Redefining Therapeutic Success with Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy, Cyber-psychology & Behavior, 4(3), pp. 484-489. Fowers, B. J. , Tredinnick, M. G. (1999). Individualism and psychotherapy; are psychologists leading or following individualistic trends? Counseling, Psychology Quarterly, 12(3): pp. 303-313 Wilson, J. T. et al (2004). Current trends in psychology and the behavioral sciences. University of Pittsburgh press: Pittsburgh, PA.