SEO title Taoism vs Buddhism - differences betwee Essays - Religion

Search engine optimization title: Taoism versus Buddhism - contrasts among Taoism and Buddhism H1: M ain realities about Taoism started in Zhou China nearly simultaneously as the instructing of Confucius (6-5 centuries BC) as a free philosophical convention. The organizer of Taoism is Laozi. His history is associated with various legends, stories and a general radiance of mystery on the grounds that there is no dependable chronicled and true to life data about him. Yet at the same time, he is considered as the maker of the book Tao Te Ching (Book of the Way and its signs), made in the V - IV hundreds of years. BC. e. - the fundamental work, which gives the essential proposes, ideas, perceptions, blended in with impressive diversions. A Taoism essential beliefof the convention is the idea of Tao, a far reaching law, the Absolute. Tao - consistent development, space, being, solidarity. Tao manages the battle of 2 vast alternate extremes - the powers of Yin and Yang. It is all the while in a condition of movement and rest. The idea of Taoism is the recognition of a few doctrines, one of which is Non-intercession (the Wu Wei guideline). A genuine Taoist won't squander his/her time and vitality on great deeds and good for nothing endeavors to change the world. A definitive objective is to know it, to converge into one, and afterward there will be joy, which is indistinguishable from everlasting status. For this, it is important to watch various guidelines that identify with the sustenance of the body and the nourishment of the soul, and furthermore to watch the idea of non-activity, so as to orchestrate crafted by the spirit and the physical segment of an individual. Crafted by the soul is the taking care of higher powers, which lead to great and terrible deeds. Along these lines, for instance, in the event that an individual feeds evil spirits, at that point he moves from the Tao, and his spirit debilitates. Furthermore, on the off chance that he takes care of the spirits with his great deeds, at that point his/her spirit gets more grounded, and he moves toward the Absolute. In this way, it is critical to carry out just beneficial things, be unadulterated in musings, expectations. Crafted by the body is the recognition of an uncommon eating regimen, which comprises of the practically absolute refusal of physical food. By steady physical preparing, an individual must carry his body to full control of reason and figure out how to eat his/her own spit and dew herbs and blossoms, breathing activities, physical and inside practices. It is accepted that the educating of the Tao assists with understanding the supporters of their motivation, instructs us to recognize great and terrible, to comprehend the mysteries of the world request, to live in concordance with our own microcosm and the universe, the world inside and with nature. H2: A Brief Introduction to Buddhism is the soonest appearance of three world religions. Other normal religions - Christ ianity and Islam - showed up later (5 and after 12 centuries). The organizer of the Buddhist instructing is a genuine individual, named Siddhartha Gautama, known as a ruler of the Shakyas, who turned into a way of preliminary, mistake, meandering, and, all things considered, reflection, the Buddha - the Awakened One. The focal idea is Dharma, which epitomizes the Buddha's instructing, reality, the way that each Buddhist must pass. One of the fundamental objectives of Buddhism is the way to nirvana. Nirvana is a condition of familiarity with one's own spirit, accomplished through discipline, a dismissal of the agreeable states of the outer condition. Buddha, having spent quite a while in contemplations and profound reflections, aced the technique for authority over one's own cognizance. Simultaneously, he arrived at the resolution that individuals are joined to common products, excessively stressed over the assessments of others. Along these lines, the human spirit not exclusively do esn't grow yet additionally deteriorates. Having accomplished nirvana, you can lose this reliance. In this manner, the principle objective of the followers is to accomplish the condition of the Buddha, full arousing, illumination, which will permit them to leave the pattern of perpetual resurrections, break the hover of samsara and in this manner quit languishing. Numerous individuals are pulled in to Buddhism by the way that they don't require an extreme change in their

The Worst Song I Ever Loved free essay sample

As you check out yourself, you can see all the different races inside one room. We are totally made up uniquely in contrast to the manner in which we dress to the kind of music we tune in to. You cannot pass judgment on somebody dependent on the sort of music they tune in to in light of the fact that it makes them what their identity is. There is an assortment of music kinds for us to look over like pop, rock move, rap, r b, even traditional. In any case, what make us much progressively extraordinary are the most noticeably terrible melodies that we would ever cherish. The most noticeably terrible tune I at any point adored Is Don by Soul]a Boy. I think It Is one of the most noticeably terrible ones at any point made yet in all honesty it sure is a gathering starter. Its everybodys jam, as when you hear it the beat makes you Just need to shake it like a salt shaker. We will compose a custom exposition test on The Worst Song I Ever Loved or then again any comparable point explicitly for you Don't WasteYour Time Recruit WRITER Just 13.90/page Im the sort of individual who likes to listen also part of rap music, so when I previously heard it I was somewhat similar to, Oh my gosh! This tune is basically utilized for like gatherings or when youre Just spending time with your companions. I guarantee after you hear this melody just because Its Like a habit. You Just prop up back to It.The tune craftsman is Soul]a Boy whose genuine name is Dander Way, and he is additionally the Eng essayist. Different tunes that he is known for are Crank That (Soul Boy), Pretty Boy Swag, and Turn My Swag On. The instrument utilized in this tune is a M-Audio Axiom 25 Keyboard, which makes beats. Soul Boy is a Hip-Hop/Rapper who previously began Just creation runt music like Her Booty Got Swag and Booty Meat. The tune Don was recorded In 2008 In Florida and later discharged that equivalent year. This melody considers Along with Soul]a Boys vocation since he makes music that individuals can move to and simply mess around with it.The tunes length isnt long yet numerous individuals have direct or moves to it on Youth. The melody turned out to be really renowned in a great deal of urban zones first creation it to the top asss and asss on nearby urban track recording list. The day I previously heard this tune It was being played on 106 Park and individuals were wilding out about it. I was at home; chilling on our tan lounge chair slumped down with my head on a cushion when I heard Soul Boys voice originating from the speakers of the TV. I simply recall believing this would have been another of his imbecilic melodies that made definitely no sense.Immediately as I heard the beat I kicked up and off doing my thing. I can in any case picture my siblings face when he saw me moving; he murmured and feigned exacerbation. I understood I adored this melody when I was at a school move and they played It. Recall saying, 00000, this Is my Jam! furthermore, began moving my body. Obviously my companions around where moving as well so I Just felt at the time. At the point when I initially began to cherish this melody I was basically hanging with chapel companions yet we as a whole loved a similar sort of music.We would all remain at Canellas house for the Ovid to move around in our Reportable shirts and you could hear the crashing from our wrist brimming with beautiful bangles. The move was truly easy to us since all you truly needed to do was shake your butt. In those days I didnt so much feel that the tune was horrible however further down the road I understood it truly had no kind of importance. It was a melody that was intended to be move to and never took any genuine aptitudes to do it. Indeed, even until this day I despite everything love this tune. Its a unique little something that bring back my beloved recollections and Just messing around with no rosier. Strive saw that many individuals despite everything move to the melody so it isnt such a serious deal whether its hip or not. It causes you to feel like Just acting naturally on the move floor. Another most exceedingly awful melody that I could adore is Versa by Amigos, and a tune that I will cherish forever is Complicated by Naive. The distinction between the three is they kind of tune they are Narrates is Just a rap tune about an apparel name, where as Complicated is an affection tune about a relationship with a huge other. Wear andVersa are move or publicity tunes however Complicated is a delicate, in your sentiments sort of tune. I like them everything except Complicated sort of relates more to me than the other two. The entire world is loaded with assorted variety so we as a whole Just need to acknowledge each other for what our identity is. No individual is indistinguishable, we may have likenesses however there are things that likewise make us diverse for other people. I am the sort of individual who is extremely receptive and I feel that music communicates the internal you. Individuals will in general tune in to music dependent on how they feel, and I totally acknowledge them for their expressive ways.

Blog Archive Friday Factoid Research-to-Practice at Tuck

Blog Archive Friday Factoid Research-to-Practice at Tuck The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College is known for its close-knit community and small faculty-to-student ratio. The school’s research-to-practice seminars complement these characteristics. An article on the school’s  Tuck Today  Web site explained that  â€œInternational Entrepreneurship” was the first of several such seminars designed to give students insight into a real-world business issue. The seminars were conceived as a key component of the school’s strategic five-year plan, called Tuck 2012. The courses bring together 15 second-year students with top faculty for a “deep dive” into a specific topic. Research-to-practice seminars that were offered in  2014â€"2015  include the following: “Corporate Takeovers” “Deconstructing Apple” “Management of Investment Portfolios” “Marketing Good and Evil: Consumer Moral Judgment and Well-Being” “Strategy in Innovation Ecosystems” “Time in the Consumer Mind” For more information on other defining characteristics of the MBA program at Dartmouth Tuck or one of 15 other top business schools, please check out the  mbaMission Insider’s Guides. Share ThisTweet Dartmouth College (Tuck) Friday Factoids Blog Archive Friday Factoid Research-to-Practice at Tuck The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College is known for its close-knit community and small faculty-to-student ratio. The school’s research-to-practice seminars complement these characteristics. An article on the school’s  Tuck Today  Web site explained that  â€œInternational Entrepreneurship” was the first of several such seminars designed to give students insight into a real-world business issue. The seminars were conceived as a key component of the school’s strategic five-year plan, called Tuck 2012. The courses bring together 15 second-year students with top faculty for a “deep dive” into a specific topic. Research-to-practice seminars that were offered in  recent years include the following: “Corporate Takeovers” “Deconstructing Apple” “Management of Investment Portfolios” “Marketing Good and Evil: Consumer Moral Judgment and Well-Being” “Strategy in Innovation Ecosystems” “Time in the Consumer Mind” For more information on other defining characteristics of the MBA program at Dartmouth Tuck or one of 15 other top business schools, please check out the  mbaMission Insider’s Guides. Share ThisTweet Dartmouth College (Tuck) Friday Factoids

The Reformation Of The Catholic Church - 1271 Words

Jackson Dukes Mr. Levy B3 3 March 2017 Killer Catholics Though millions of Catholics were brainwashed by higher-ranking church officials through cynical, selfish teachings, the reformation of the Catholic Church saved an immeasurable amount of lives by gaining religious freedom in Europe. I. Brainwashed Catholics A. Forced to work as slaves to church 1. Expected to work for free 2. Never taught any differently B. Forced to pay tithes 1. Rich people bribed 2. Relics as tribute C. Burned at stake for alternate beliefs 1. No legal alternative 2. No tolerated deviations II. Cynical, selfish teachings A. Heaven only accessible through priest 1. Pastor was passport 2. Rogue teachings taught to ignorant people B. Taught to work for†¦show more content†¦This assumption has all the evidence it needs to be upheld. Though millions of Catholics were brainwashed by higher-ranking church officials through cynical, selfish teachings, the reformation of the Catholic Church saved an immeasurable amount of lives by gaining religious freedom in Europe. To hit the tip of the iceberg, high-ranking church officials would brainwash regular citizens. Though not the type of brainwashing seen in movies, church officials found an even more efficient way to make sure their followers stayed put. Officials forced people to work for the church (â€Å"The Roman Catholic Church in 1500†). Though it seems that Catholics could have chosen not work for the church, that is how they were always taught. These rogue teachings were frequently taught to young, ignorant people so that a priest would have to ability to remain in power (â€Å"The Roman Catholic Church in 1500†). According to Wongoo Shim, the Catholic Church also used relics as revenue which could be bought by the people. These relics pardoned sins and granted access to heaven (Shim). Rich families would often buy their way into a higher-ranking church position. Separately, peasants were left desperate after having to pay for christenings, marriages, burials, and anything else that required help from the church (â€Å"The Roman Catholic Church in 1500†). There was no other legal alternative for people. The Catholic Church did not tolerate any deviance from its teachings.Show MoreRelatedThe Catholic Church And The Reformation Essay2008 Words   |  9 PagesProtestant Church and the Reformation, it is first important to understand that one of the positions that claims the Catholic Church is apostolic succession. This simply means that they claim to be the sole authority over all other churches and denominations because they support the entire line of Roman Catholic Popes back to back centuries, to the apostle Peter. From their point of view, it gives the Catholic Church a unique authority which puts it above all other denominations or church. AccordingRead MoreResponse Of The Catholic Church To The Reformation1055 Words   |  5 Pagesthe response of the Catholic Church to the Reformation. Long before the reformation period,people within the church, both clergy and lay were keen for the church to eliminate all corrupt practices and for a reform,which would bring everyone closer to God. Those high up in church authority had ignored the concerns made by these reformers because they were personally gaining from practices like indulgences. However the sixteenth century split of protestant from the Catholic church became obvious andRead MoreThe Protestant Reformation And The Catholic Church996 Words   |  4 Pages the Catholic Church built upon the bureaucratic organization of the Roman Empire, became powerful, but also very corrupt. Calls for reformation within the Church started as early as the twelfth century. To try to resolve doctrinal issues and reform the church, nine councils were called between 1215 and 1545. However, all nine councils failed to reach any noteworthy protocol and agreement regarding the Church. The clergy was unable to follow the Church’s rules and the abuses of the Catholic ChurchRead MoreProtestant Reformation And The Catholic Church Essay1339 Words   |  6 Pages1st period 10 November 2016 Catholic vs Protestant Throughout history, the Protestant Reformation and the Catholic Church have developed similarities and differences among their religions. Because they are both a major part of history they’re both equally important. The most important thing is knowing facts about our history and major events that occurred. Catholicism and Protestantism are both two very different religions that have different opinions. While Catholics use statues and paintings asRead MoreThe Reformation : Four Challenges For The Catholic Church1176 Words   |  5 PagesThe Reformation: Four Challenges to the Catholic Church The Reformation was a European religious movement of monumental proportions and consequences, during which a new Christian religion, Protestantism, was created. Protestantism differs from other forms of Christianity in that it is not a single church, but many different churches, denominations, and congregations, it is extremely diverse. The first proto-Protestant congregations, even predate the Reformation, drawing their origins from an earlierRead MoreCatholic Church During The Protestant Reformation1464 Words   |  6 PagesThe three areas of concern that Catholics had about the Catholic Church before the Protestant Reformation were The Plague, Abuse of the Indulgences and The Great Schism. The Plague also known as the Black Death was a disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis that circulated among wild rodents. The disease took place in the fourteenth century. Symptoms include aching of limbs, high fever, vomiting of blood, and swelling of the lymph nodes. After the lymph nodes swelled they would then burstRead MoreThe Roman Catholic Church And The Protestant Reformation1496 Words   |  6 Pagesdifferent denominations of Christianity in the world today including the Anglican Church, Orthodox Church, Catholicism, and Episcopal for example. Nonetheless, in the early 1500s, Catholicism was the predominant denomination. An argument that often comes up against the validity of Christianity is the actions of the Catholic church in the era prior to the Protestant Reformation. To quote Jesus Christ, â€Å"†¦build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.† (Matthew 16:18). Many willRead MoreThe Effect Of The Reformation On The Roman Catholic Church1506 Words   |  7 PagesThe Effect of the Reformation on the Roman Catholic Church The Roman Catholic Church grew from an outlawed and persecuted religion to a well-organized and powerful ruling body in the western world. After the death of Jesus of Nazareth his disciples begin to spread his teachings of love and salvation through a single God. However, early Christians quickly became seen as a threat to the most powerful Empire at the time; Rome. Being monotheistic they refused to offer sacrifice to state ran cults andRead MoreThe Divide between the Catholic Church and the Protestant Reformation832 Words   |  3 PagesThe Counter-Reformation was the response of the Catholic Church to the Protestant Reformation set in motion by Martin Luther. It was a period of revival for Catholicism stemming from the Council of Trent. The Council was established to address the numerous issues disputed by Protestantism, defining and reforming Church teachings, doctrine, and structure. Catholicism and Protestantism were also divided regarding the visual arts. The Protestant Refo rmation promoted iconoclasm, calling for the removalRead MoreThe Counter Reformation : A Response From The Catholic Church1288 Words   |  6 Pages The Counter Reformation was a response from the Catholic Church in Europe after Martin Luther posted the 95 Theses and the church was losing support and control. Beginning in 1545 with the Council of Trent where the hierarchy of the church discussed ways preserves the Roman Catholic Church again the protestant movement. In protestant churches there was no art work because they believed that there is only one god to worship and worshiping any other such as the saints was against their belief system

What is a Miracle Essay examples - 716 Words

(a) What is meant by the term miracle? (4 marks) A miracle can be defined as, `a transgression of a law of nature by a particular violation of a deity, Hume. It describes supernatural events, which defy the universal laws of nature. This could be a man rising from the ground against the law of gravity. J.L. Mackie has a similar point of view and suggests that miracles occur when the world is interfered with, by something that is not of natural order. Some doctors have said that a particular event would not be a miracle, unless the impossible has taken place. I would agree with the doctors point of view, that if a man was terminally ill and then suddenly 100% healthy the next day when he woke up from his sleep, and that would†¦show more content†¦There is empirical evidence, evidence that people have suddenly regained health after visiting Lourdes, a renowned place where several miracles have occurred. Some of those have had their health checked by a medical doctor before visiting Lourdes. Then after, if and when a mi raculous change has happened, they go to the doctors to be examined again and it has been recorded that there have been cases when they have suddenly regained one hundred percent health straight after the visit. This is surely strong evidence for the existence of miracles. On the other hand, Hume has made several criticisms in his book, Enquiries Concerning Human Understanding and the Principle of Morals. He believes that miracles are transgressions of the law of nature but says that we cannot be sure what a natural law is. According to Hume, to prove that a miracle has occurred, there needs to be as much evidence for the miracle as there are for natural laws. However if there was so much evidence that miracles occur, then it would not be a miracle at all, but a law of nature. So it would be impossible to prove miracles occur to Hume. But one vital aspect of miracles is that it is meant to be an exception to a rule. Hume also disregards the testimonies in the Bible. No testimony is sufficient to establish a miracle unless the person concerned is of unquestionable good, sense, education, and learning, as to secure us against all delusion inShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of Mark Twain s Huckleberry Finn 1480 Words   |  6 Pagess gospel seems to be the one most focused on Jesus’s miracles. This paper will be looking at the purpose and meaning of these miracles. First, what is a miracle? A miracle is, â€Å"a special act of God that interrupts the natural course of events.† There are three different kinds of miracles that Jesus does: exorcisms, nature miracles, and healings. Just as there are three kinds of miracles, there seem to be three different purposes for His miracles. These are to attract people, to prove Jesus was theRead MoreThis paper will demonstrate why Hume thinks accepting testimony about a miracle is unreasonable and800 Words   |  4 Pagesaccepting testimony abou t a miracle is unreasonable and why he is incorrect. It will do so by first presenting Humes argument as to why miracles are improbable. Second it will present Humes four main justifications for not accepting miracles. Finally it will present how Humes justifications are incorrect. Hume believes that accepting testimony about miracles is unreasonable because there is no imperative reason to believe in miracles. Our knowledge of miracles comes from the testimony of othersRead MoreHume on Miracles Essay689 Words   |  3 PagesHume on Miracles It is evident in David Humes writing of An Equity Concerning Human Understanding that he does not believe that miracles take place. Hume is a man of logic, who believes in experience over knowledge. Of course it is hard for such a man to believe in extraordinary claims without being there to witness them. Especially when such events require a lot of faith. In order for an event to be deemed a miracle, it must disobey the laws of nature. However, it is these same lawsRead MoreEssay Miracles849 Words   |  4 PagesMiracles From the Latin word miraculum meaning â€Å"object of wonder† enters the word miracle. Many definitions have been formed for the notion of a miracle but most would agree that it is most commonly an unexplainable extraordinary event, inspiring awe and wonder unto its witnesses. Similar definitions state that it is a â€Å"supernatural event, contrary to the established constitutionRead MoreEssay about Lukes Gospel - Miracles965 Words   |  4 PagesLukes Gospel - Miracles Section A (i) The definition of a miracle is: An event or effect contrary to the established constitution and course of things, or a deviation from the known laws of nature; a supernatural event, or one transcending the ordinary laws by which the universe is governed. However, other definitions claim that a miracle is simply a wonderful or amazing event. Today we use the term miracle colloquially to mean the latter, however traditionallyRead MoreEssay about Of Miracles by David Hume936 Words   |  4 PagesOf Miracles by David Hume In David Hume?s paper ?Of Miracles,? Hume presents a various number of arguments concerning why people ought not to believe in any miracles. Hume does not think that miracles do not exist it is just that we should not believe in them because they have no rational background. One of his arguments is just by definition miracles are unbelievable. And have no rational means in believing miracles. Another argument is that most miracles tend to come from uncivilizedRead MoreAccounts of Miracles and Their Support of Belief in God Essay549 Words   |  3 PagesAccounts of Miracles and Their Support of Belief in God The definition of a miracle is a violation of the laws of nature, it is an exception that is beyond all naturalistic explanations, meaning they must be explained supernaturally. So do accounts of miracles support the belief in God? Firstly, one must decided whether there is sufficient evidence to prove the existence of miracles, something that people have disagreed aboutRead MoreBy Definition Miracles Do Not Occur Essay1398 Words   |  6 PagesBy Definition Miracles Do Not Occur Even in this modern age, belief in the miraculous is widespread and is a feature of many world religions, including the Christian faith where miracles have played a significant role. It is important attempt to define what a miracle is, as this in itself is a source for debate. Today the term ‘miracle’ in many different ways and the idea is open to many interpretations. A miracle can be defined in a number of ways, firstly asRead More Jesus Christ: The Importance of his Miracles Essay examples1233 Words   |  5 PagesJesus Christ: The Importance of his Miracles Throughout history many people have given messages. They were trying to make people consider the messages. They would say that they would do something with out actually backing it up, or they would say they are someone with out proof. Jesus had made many messages that said that he was â€Å"the messiah†, the son of god. The performance of miracles had strengthened Jesus’ message. Because Jesus had done miracles to back up his message, people actually believedRead MoreThe Existence Of Miracles By David Hume1350 Words   |  6 Pagesthe case of miracles. Consequently, the authors included in the book, In Defense of Miracles, each considers different important details as the defining factors in the debate of the existence of miracles. Of those, some focus more heavily on the likelihood of miracles themselves such as Hume, others focus on the existence of God such as Flew and Beck, and others focus on a particular example of a miracle such as Craig. Against Miracles: David Hume David Hume argues against miracles and states that

The Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain - 1317 Words

During the period of time in which Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was written, people of color – especially those enslaved – were not thought of as â€Å"people†, with emotions and thoughts. Mark Twain, in writing the aforementioned book, disputes these ideas by providing a fully humanized black man. Rather than forcing the reader to artificially ingest morals, Twain makes good use of the passage of time over the course of his story, and the finite amount of description a scene can hold, to cause the reader to almost forget about what on the surface may be Jim’s most defining characteristic – his skin – and instead focus on his humanity. When Huck first meets Jim, he is not depicted as the character he eventually becomes. Instead, his only defining characteristic aside from his race is his belief in the supernatural. This is taken to the extreme in just the first instance of the reader encountering Jim, as he describes his interpretation of odd occurrences that happen to actually be pranks from Huck and Tom: Afterwards Jim said the witches bewitched him and put him in a trance, and rode him all over the State, and then set him under the trees again and hung his hat on a limb to show who done it. And next time Jim told it he said they rode him down to New Orleans; and after that, every time he told it he spread it more and more, till by and by he said they rode him all over the world, and tired him most to death, and his back was all over saddle-boils. Jim was monstrous proudShow MoreRelatedThe Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain830 Words   |  3 PagesThe Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain is â€Å"A Great American Novel†, because of its complexity and richness. Twain writes dialogue that brings his characters to life. He creates characters with unique voice and helps the reader connect to the book. Anyone who reads it is forced to develop feelings for each character. Even though there is a great amount of controversy over the use of some choices, such as the â€Å"n word†, it makes the book more realistic. In the beginning of the novel Huck,Read MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain1103 Words   |  5 PagesDmitri Van Duine Jr English Mr. Nelson November 27th The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Written by Mark Twain filled his stories with many examples of satire as to convey a message while also writing an interesting story. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn revolves around the adventures of a young boy called Huckleberry Finn, who is about thirteen years old. Tom Sawyer is Huck’s best friend and around the same age as Huck. He is onlyRead MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain Essay1055 Words   |  5 PagesZambrano Mrs. Patmor AP Lit-Period 5 28 September 2016 Adventures of Huckleberry Finn 1835 Mark Twain embodies realism in almost every aspect of his writing not excluding The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, which in he portrays such a lifelike setting that it almost gives you this sense of reality through the point of view of a young man that has an urge for freedom yet struggles to conform to society s norms due to his adolescence. Twain s ability to unmask the true identities of the charactersRead MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain931 Words   |  4 PagesWolski Mrs. Goska English 2H Period 3 22 October 2014 The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Mob mentality is the way an individual’s decisions become influenced by the often unprincipled actions of a crowd. Mark Twain penned The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Twain grew up in America’s southern states during the early 1800’s, a time in which moral confusion erupted within the minds of humans. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn s protagonist is a young boy named Huck who freely travels alongRead MoreMark Twain and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn1575 Words   |  6 Pages Mark Twain and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Controversy Mark Twain, born Samuel Langhorne Clemens, is a highly recognizable figure in American literature. Born in Florida, Missouri Mark Twain and his family moved to Hannibal, Missouri where Twain discovered and fell in love with the mighty Mississippi River. The river and his life in Hannibal became his inspiration and guiding light in most of his writing. Although Twain loved the river and did a great deal of traveling, he eventuallyRead MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain1375 Words   |  6 Pagesmention the years spent growing and maturing physically. Teenagers are stuck in an inbetween state where they must learn who they want to become and what they want to be when they grow older. The same is true for Huckleberry Finn, from the book â€Å"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn† by Mark Twain. This is a book that was written in a time of great confusion over moral codes and standards. It was a world split in half by two different worlds of people; those who opp osed, and those who promoted slavery.Read MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain810 Words   |  4 PagesBefore Mark Twain started to write two of his most famous novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Mark was known to use his characters to display his own thoughts and opinions. â€Å"This device allowed him to say just about anything he wanted, provided he could convincingly claim he was simply reporting what others had said.† (Twain, 1283). Mark Twain used this process to be a foundation of his lectures, by manipulating his popularly with his readers. During the storyRead MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain2083 Words   |  9 PagesSatire in Huckleberry Finn In the novel â€Å"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn† by Mark Twain, we are told a story about a young boy and his slave companion’s journey down the Mississippi River and all of their encounters with other characters. Twain constructed a beautiful narrative on how young Huck Finn, the protagonist in the story, learns about the world and from other adult characters, how he is shaped into his own person. At the time this book was made however, this novel provided serious socialRead MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain1005 Words   |  5 Pages In the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn written by Mark Twain in the 19th century is about a young boy named Huck Finn and Jim, a runaway slave who go on an adventure. The two travel on a raft along the Mississippi river creating a bond and making memories. Mark Twain presents Huckleberry Finn as a dynamic character who at first views Jim as property and eventually considers Jim as a friend, showing a change in maturity. In the beginning of the book, Huck Finn clearly sees Jim as nothing more thanRead MoreThe Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain1335 Words   |  6 Pagesyear The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is placed in the top ten banned books in America. People find the novel to be oppressing and racially insensitive due to its frequent use of the n-word and the portrayal of blacks as a Sambo caricature. However, this goes against Mark Twain’s intent of bringing awareness to the racism in America. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain is classified under the genre of satire and is narrated by a fictional character named Huckleberry Finn. The novel

The Architect That Inspired Me the Most free essay sample

In a way we could humbly express the concept of what we design of a particular structure which I believe is really what architecture is all about. It is part of our journey to look up some of the famous and brilliant architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, whose works were so impressive that it could inspire me more to become not only just an ordinary one, but a brilliant one as well. Frank Lloyd Wright was born in Richland Center, Wisconsin on June 8, 1867. His parents were William Cary Wright and Anna Lloyd-Jones. When he was helve years old, Wrights family settled in Madison, Wisconsin where he attended Madison High School.During summers spent on his Uncle James Lloyd Jones farm in Spring Green, Wisconsin, Wright first began to realize his dream of becoming an architect. In 1885 at the age of fourteen years old, he left Madison without finishing high school to work for Allan Conniver, the Dean of the University of Wisconsin Engineering department. We will write a custom essay sample on The Architect That Inspired Me the Most or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Since the university of Wisconsin had no course in architecture, Frank Lloyd Wright spent n. ;vow semesters studying civil engineering before moving to Chicago and ceded to go to work in some real architects office in 1888.In Chicago, he worked for architect Joseph Lyman Sessile in six years. Wright drafted the construction of his first building the Lloyd-Jones family chapel, also known as unity Chapel. One year later, he went to work for the firm of Adler and Sullivan, directly under Louis Sullivan. Wright adapted Sullivan maxim Form Follows Function to his own revised theory of Form and Function Are One. Then later believed and developed a theory that American Architecture should be based on American function, not European traditions.Throughout his life, Wright acknowledged very few influences but credits Sullivan as a primary influence on his career. His works and design were organically spatial which means characterized as radical and conscious with surrounding natural environment. Wright had a style of his own, mimicking that of a horizontal plane, with no basements or attics. Built with natural materials and never painted, Wright utilized low- pitched roofline with deep overhangs and uninterrupted walls of windows to merge the horizontal homes into their environments. He added large stone or Rick fireplaces in the homes heart, and made the rooms open to one another. His simplistic houses served as an inspiration to the Prairie School, a name given to a group of architects whose style was indigenous of Midwestern architecture. Wright gained an appreciation for nature, particularly Midwestern nature, from working on his uncles Wisconsin farm during his teenage summers. There he could observe the horizontal line of the land, the line that he considered domestic and democratic and freeing.It would signify comfort, a quality that Wright wanted to characterize his alluding, particularly his houses. To this end Wrights Prairie Style house typically features a large, centrally-placed fireplace, a hearth that grounds the house and becomes its focus. Frequently he designed benches on either side of it, in effect creating a room within a room. In at least one instance he elevated this space from the rest of the area and set it off by a series of arches. Also Frank Lloyd Wright employed design that to the natural environment and honesty of material use which merges for a unified character.Most the building materials that were used in Prairie Style homes ere simple. Some examples of this material were: plaster (stucco), wood and brick. Its aim was to develop sympathy and inclination towards the design, aesthetic or beauty and ideals of the art crafts movement. Also to produce an indigenous North American style architecture with minimal European influence. One of his highlights was also the Suasion concept the word Sunnis is an abbreviation for United States of North America. Designed to control costs, Wrights Suasion houses had no attics, no basements, and little ornamentation as being said earlier. Frank Lloyd Wright aspired to create a emigration, distinctly American style that was affordable for the common people or the middle class and designed to be run without servants. Suasion architecture grew out of Frank Lloyd Wrights earlier Prairie style homes. Both styles featured low and flat roofs, large cantilevered overhangs for passive solar heating, natural cooling and natural lighting with clerestory windows.Both styles made abundant use of brick, wood, and other natural material. However, Wrights Suasion homes were small; one-story Structures set on concrete slabs with piping for radiant heat beneath, had L-shaped plans to accommodate a garden terrace with indigenous materials. The kitchens called workspaces by Wright were incorporated into the adjoined the dining and living areas. Bedrooms were typically isolated and relatively small, encouraging the family to gather in the main living areas. Also open car ports took the place of garages.The conception of spaces instead of rooms was a development of the Prairie ideal as the built-in furnishings related to the Arts and Crafts principles from which Wrights early works grew. Spatially and in terms of their construction, the Suasion houses represented a new model for independent living, and allowed dozens of clients to live in a Wright-designed house at relatively low cost. The diversity of the Illusion ideal can be seen in houses such as the Gregory S. And Elizabeth B. Fleck House. His Suasion homes set a new style for suburban design that was a feature of countless developers.Many features of modern American homes date back to Wright, including open plans, slab-on-grade foundations, and simplified construction techniques that allowed more mechanization and efficiency in building. Over the next 20 years Wrights influence continued to grow in popularity in he United States and Europe. Eventually his innovative building style spread overseas. In 1915, Wright was commissioned to design the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo. It was during this time that Wright began to develop and refine his architectural and sociological philosophies.Because Wright disliked the urban environment, his buildings also developed a style quite different from other architects of the time. He utilized natural materials, skylights and walls of windows to embrace the natural environment. He built skyscrapers that mimicked trees, with a central trunk and many branches projecting outward. He proclaimed that shapes found in the environment should be not only integrated, but should become the basis of American architecture. A great example is the Larkin Company Administration Building in Buffalo, New York and the Guggenheim Museum in New York City which resembles the structure of a shell or a snail.He also included external influences like the knowledge about Japanese art and architecture, Wright first traveled to Japan in 1905, where he bought hundreds of prints. The following year, he helped organize the worlds first retrospective exhibition of works by Hiroshige, held at the Art Institute of Chicago. For many years, he was a major presence in the Japanese art world, selling a great number of works to prominent collectors such as John Spaulding of Boston, and to prominent museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. He penned a book on Japanese art in 1912. Frank Lloyd Wright spent more than 70 years creating designs that revolutionized the art and was considered as one Of the most influential and imaginative architects of the twentieth century. Many innovations in todays buildings are products of his imagination. In all he designed 1 141 works including houses, offices, churches, schools, libraries, bridges, museums and many other building types. Of that total, 532 resulted in completed works, 409 of which still stand. However, Wrights creative mind was not confined to architecture.He also designed furniture, fabrics, art glass, lamps, dinnerware, silver, linens and graphic arts. In addition, he was a prolific writer, an educator and a philosopher. He authored twenty books and countless articles, lectured throughout the United States and in Europe, and developed a remarkable plan for decentralization urban America that continues to be debated by scholars and writers even to this day decades after its conception. One example of a building may have been influenced by his principles is the Main Building at the university of Santos Atoms.This unique and impressive structure is a famous landmark in the City, designed by the Dominican priest and engineer; FRR. Rogue Uriah it was completed on July 2, 1927. It has the distinction of being the first earthquake-proof building in the country. The building is composed of 40 independent structures separated from one another by a gap of one inch which is filled with loose cement. One of these trustees rises beyond the level of the fourth floor to form the tower, at the top of which is a Cross. This tower and cross can be seen from many parts of the city.The Main Building of the Leistering of Santos Atoms functions as the universitys administrative center and home of the Faculty of Civil Law, Faculty of Pharmacy and the College of Science. The Main Building is also the home of the Museum of Arts and Sciences. The building designed by FRR. Rogue Raffia, is the first earthquake-proof building in the Philippines. Aurao was influenced by Frank Lloyd Wrights Imperial Hotel, Tokyo due to its horizontal orientation which signifies comfort. Conclude that Frank Lloyd Wright practices inspire me by the simplicity in which he designed.There is a real sense of freshness to the way in which projects are carried out. His works and theories truly inspired due to even presentation and honesty of materials used in his style. He has similar approaches in regards to allow architecture to be seen as fun. I believe that Frank Lloyd Wright simply means or is equals to organically spacious architecture and freedom, and freedom cannot exist without conscience. And the condition of freedom is a developed conscience so you cant be free until you have it because you are afraid. Then no designer is free who is afraid. And he is afraid until he has developed the certainty that comes from a creative life and a creative role in life by way of art, religion, and science. Id also realize that Wright often promote a real sense that architecture is for the people. As what he learns from Sullivan that Form follows Function at the end of the day I could see that the user is has a lot of the time to use the spaces and was indeed being showed through the design and planning of his arks. However what I like the most about F-rank Lloyd Wright was the use of honest materials in at his time.As being observed on his projects he uses the indigenous material as an architectural and artist to create an interactive facade that is both enjoyable to view and live amongst. I have also enjoyed looking at the alternative; Wright use furniture and try to find other uses. Agents of Change are another inspirational practice for me. He looked into the detail of the purpose of the the site to the structure and then design specifically with respect for that user, using that level of detail.

Violence or Non-violence How to Gain Independence Essay Example

Violence or Non-violence How to Gain Independence Paper For every conflict there is a different method towards a resolution. After 1945 several countries under European rule strained for independence, of these many countries, India and Kenya waged two very different journeys to obtaining their goals of independence. India got there in 1947 after long periods of suffering through non-violent protests beginning in the early 1920s (Source 1. pg 1027). Kenya, however, turned to violence in 1952 in order to obtain their independence in 1963 (Source 1. pg 1116). After comparing these two countrys struggles for independence, a method of violence is a more defensible route. European colonies began in India during the early 1600s as a result of the trading companies (Text, pg 623). Realizing that India could not be controlled with out the help of its people, Britain began educating Indian people in order for them to hold political positions. In 1885, the Indian National Congress, was formulated and as a result the Hindu and Muslim people of India were brought together. This unity was ruptured with the British encouragement of the 1906 creation of the Muslim league (Text, pg 1027). Now, the divisions were clear and the only common cause of the two organizations was Indian independence. In 1915 an educated Indian by the name Mohandas Gandi, returned to India after being educated in London and worked in South Africa (Text, pg 1028). Gandi united the Indian people in massive movements, mainly the Non-cooperation Movement (1929-1922) and the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1930. Britain did try to put down the Indian protesters violently. We will write a custom essay sample on Violence or Non-violence How to Gain Independence specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Violence or Non-violence How to Gain Independence specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Violence or Non-violence How to Gain Independence specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer This was not unexpected after the 1919 incident where 379 Indian demonstrators were massacred in a protest (Text, pg 1028). Gandi was able to repeatedly rally Indian people in the face of brutality be convincing them that sacrifice on ones self is superior to the sacrificing of others (Doc 169, pg 169). The British complied with several demands for reform as a result of the passive resistance, but only enough to delay independence. Headway was finally made in 1937 when the Government of India Act was enabled by the British to give India the means to be a self-governed state (Text, pg 1028). Unfortunately, due to the Hindu and Muslim divisions, India did not obtain independence until 1947, when India was divided into separate religious states (Text, pg 1102). Indias non-violent methods to acquiring independence can only be attributed to the fact that there was a window of opportunity available to India. After the First World War, Britain was in period of weakened economic status following the U. S. Stock Market Crash of 1929 (Text, pg 1011). This economic disadvantage was only worse after the Second World War. The situation made it difficult for Britain to effectively keep control, and allowing for India to slowly break away (Text, pg 1102). Had the economic situation given Britain the resources to stop the Indian resistance, the outcome of a non-violent gain of independence would not have been possible. The British first colonized Kenya in 1895 (Web). African lands were initially of interest to Europeans in order to establish sources for raw materials and later a labor source. Kenya, like many others sent numerous people to die in European wars for no reward (Doc 158, pg 220). On top of that already serious resentment, heavy taxes, eviction from lands, and being forced into positions of wage slaves, just added to the mounting explosion. Non-violent measures began early in the 1940s, but no requests of reform were ever honored by the British (Text, pg 1116). Angered the frozen situation, several nationalist rose to violently oppose the British in 1952. Jomo Kenyatta was among the leaders of the Mau Mau force who was captured and exiled in 1953 (Web). The British announced a state of emergency, until the violence ended in 1956. British forces were actually the victors of the war for independence, but the people of Kenya continued to push for their cause until it was a reality in 1963 (Text, pg 1116). Kenya chose a violent route towards independence because it was cleat that protests and strikes werent making any leeway. Britain blatantly exploited and suppressed people across Africa, as well as repeatedly ignore Kenyan attempts to become active in their own government. The extreme extent to which the Kenyan people were mistreated explains why they resorted to violence. Only after Kenya displayed their willingness to sacrifice their own lives and take down as many British as possible, did it become evident that the Kenyan people would no longer stand to be railroaded. Comparing these countries a little closer, violence is the more defensible route because once it is used; the process of independence is much faster. It took India well over 25 years after the first movement, and Kenya about 10 years after the first violent act to gain independence from colonial control. The fact that Europeans were only interested in these countries for greed and power, further illustrates how little respect was given. It is also because of these motives that Britain was not going to let go without a fight. Despite the method used to gain independence (violent or non) Britain still used violence in an attempt to control. If violence is to be brought into the equation by colonial powers, it should not be felt only by the oppressed. It is only right that emerging independent nations step up to the plate ready and throw right back what ever is dealt. Another take on the pro-violence stance in that the use of violence can help heal the wounds of racial degradation from years of colonial control (Text, pg 1112). All the adds up to the fact that violence is the best bet for gaining independence. After comparing these two countrys struggles for independence, a method of violence is a more defensible route. It is apparent that a non-violent approach only works in narrow circumstances, so violence the best bet for gaining independence. Violence is faster, fair, and mentally satisfying for countries trying free themselves of colonial control. The resolution must parallel the severity of the problem to have effective results. Any other course of action would only delay (at best) the arrival of independence.

How does Sulphur Dioxide effect the Germination of Cress Seeds Essay Example

How does Sulphur Dioxide effect the Germination of Cress Seeds Essay Example How does Sulphur Dioxide effect the Germination of Cress Seeds Essay How does Sulphur Dioxide effect the Germination of Cress Seeds Essay Aim: The aim of this coursework is to find out how varied amount of sulphur dioxide effect the germination of cress seeds.Safety: This experiment could be very dangerous because there are some chemicals, which are harmful for human body will be involved in this experiment. Such as sodium metabisulphite, it would damage your lungs and eyes when it mixed with gases. So, I will do the following things to prevent any accidents during the experiment.1, I will be following the instruction when I am doing the experiment, and listened what teacher said as the experiment is processing.2, I will wear eyes goggles to prevent the harmful gases contact with my eyes.3, I will wear plastic gloves on all the times to prevent the chemical liquid contact with my skin.And if there is any chemicals contact with my skin or eyes, clean it with water immediately, and report to the teacher for helping as soon as possible.Fair Test: I will make sure to make my experiment as fair as possible; therefore I woul d get the reliable results. To make this experiment fair, I will do the following things.1, I will same experimental equipments as the other group does.2, I will measure (weight) the chemicals and water carefully to prevent any inaccurate results.3, I will count the time carefully and do exactly what teacher told me to count to prevent any anomalous results.Prediction: I predict that the proportion between water and the germination of seeds will be directly, and the proportion between sodium metabisulphite will be inversely. I predict that the amount of sodium metabisulphite will be inversely proportional to the number of seeds germinated because of couple of reasons. Firstly, sulphur dioxides are harmful chemicals, and sodium metabisulphite is one of them. Secondly, it is one of the main reasons to cause the acid rain, the acid rain contains water and some sodium dioxides, when it rained on the ground, and the sodium dioxides reacted and damage all the seeds. Those were the reasons for my prediction.Method: For the first experiment, I need the following apparatus some pots, a sealed bag, an indicator, cress seeds, some cotton wools and sodium metabisulphite. Then, I will put some sodium metabisulphite into my first pot and let it cover the bottom, and I will put about 10 drops of water in and seals the bag. Secondly, I will put 6 drops of indicator into it and seals the bag, and wait for about 5 minutes. Thirdly, I will put some moist cotton wools and place 20 seeds all over the pot randomly, then put the pot in a moisture place and leave it for few days.After few days, the indicators colour changed to red from blue, which means the sodium metabisulphite reacted with air and affected the indicator. And all the cress seeds have all germinated.For the next part of my experiment, I am doing to investigate how does sodium metabisulphite and water (Solution A) affect cress seeds.This time, I need some pots, 2 bags, cotton wools, 40 cress seeds and some solution A . Then, I will put the sodium metabisulphite and water into the first pot as same as the last one. And I put some moist cotton wools into the other two pots, and put 20 seeds into each pot. Then I put the first pot (Solution A) and the second pot (Cress Seeds) in a bag and seal it. And put the last pot into another bag. Leave it for few days.After few days, I have got the results. The table that was shown below are the results of whole class (9 Groups), the forth was my groups result.Seeds + Air + WaterSeeds + Air + Solution A190200160190130200170200190Average: 16Average: 0The bar chart above was shown the table directly.This time, I am going to investigate how does different concentration of solution A affect the germination o cress seeds. I have chosen 6 different concentration of solution A to do this experiment, which are 30:0, 28:2, 26:4, 24:6, 22:8, 20:10 with 30cm3 water.For this par, I need pots, 6 sealed bags, cotton wools, cress seeds and some solution A. Firstly, I will f ill the first pot with water and second pot with sodium metabisulphite. Secondly, I put cotton wools in to next 6 pos and let them cover the bottom, and I put 20 seeds into each pot. Thirdly, I measure 30cm3 water and pour it into the first pot, and I will place it into the bag. Then, I just repeat the last step to the other pots with different concentration of solution A. and leave it foe another few days.After few days, I have got the results. The table below shows the results.Water (cm3 )Sodium Metabisulphite (cm3 )No. of seeds GerminatedPercentage of Water (%)30020100282209326412862465802280732010066Obtaining and Analysing:The graph below shows that the number of seeds germinated against the amount of water involved.

Building a trusting nurse-patient relationship Essay

Building a trusting nurse-patient relationship - Essay Example As disclosed, there are various methods of collecting data pertinent to the patients’ history and current health condition; such as â€Å"interviews, observations, physical examinations, laboratory and diagnostic tests† (Cape Fear Community College, n.d., p. 74). There are explicitly identified subjective data that can only be solicited from interviewing the patients, such as: sensations or symptoms, feelings, perceptions, desires, preferences, beliefs, ideas, values, and personal information (Nursing Data Collection, Documentation, and Analysis, n.d.). In this regard, the current discourse aims to present interviewing techniques that seek to effectively develop trust during the complete nursing assessment and history taking process. Interviewing Techniques It was acknowledged that there are two main focuses of the nursing interview process: (1) to develop trust and rapport with the patients and (2) enable the nurses to solicit relevant and accurate information, as requ ired (Nursing Data Collection, Documentation, and Analysis, n.d.). ... It was explicitly cited that â€Å"to continue to build rapport with patients, nurses should introduce themselves, discuss the purpose of the interview and explain the nurse’s role to the patient (Jarvis, 2012; Kennedy-Sheldon, 2009). As emphasized, â€Å"your appearance, demeanor, posture, facial expressions, and attitude strongly in?uence how the client perceives the questions you ask† (Nursing Data Collection, Documentation, and Analysis, n.d., p. 30). From among the most appropriate behavior, the following are noteworthy: focus one’s attention completely to the patient; be aware of cultural disparities regarding distance and touch; apply the most appropriate facial expression; assume a non-judgmental stance in attitude; apply silence as needed to enable both the interviewer and the patient to recollect thoughts; and listen intently. b. Verbal Communication Techniques During Interview It was explicitly cited that â€Å"to continue to build rapport with patie nts, nurses should introduce themselves, discuss the purpose of the interview and explain the nurse’s role to the patient (Jarvis, 2012; Kennedy-Sheldon, 2009; cited by Victor, 2013, par. 7). During the application of verbal communication patterns, the interviewer should be able to ask the needed questions: open- or close-ended questions, depending on the information that needs to be responded to. For instance, open-ended questions are typically used when the nurse or interviewer needs to pry on subjective data, as noted above. Close-ended questions typically solicit facts and quick yes or no responses. Likewise, there are types of questions that list or enumerate the expected responses. This type of questioning is

Strategies in Teaching L2 Writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Strategies in Teaching L2 Writing - Essay Example There is heightened cognitive interference when these procedures are jumbled with second language processing cognitive mechanisms. The degree of interference varies depending on a student’s proficiency level whereby students with a higher proficiency level have less interference, and the reverse holds true for students with a lower proficiency level. More often than not, L2 learners depend on their L1 writing to gain proficiency in their L2 writing; however, the extent of usage also varies based on the level of proficiency. L2 learners with a high proficiency level rely on their L1 writing skills less due to their heightened L2 knowledge, which in turn gives them the autonomy to sustain the writing process without the risk of a complete breakdown. This is far from the case for lower L2 proficiency learners, a factor that has triggered scholars’ interest in researching teaching strategies designed to help the former develop proficiency despite their drawbacks. These stra tegies vary among scholars; for example, for Cuming and Uzawa (1989), they included two distinct strategies- â€Å"lowering the standard†, and â€Å"keeping the standard†. The former allowed instructors to teach L2 writing within a reasonable timeframe while utilizing minimal mental effort; it included strategies such as simplification of syntax, and reduction of information among others. On the other hand, the latter strategy allowed instructors to teach L2 writing by maintaining the standards achieved by learners in L1 writing; it included strategies such as extensive revision (Uzawa, and Cuming, 1989). In contemporary society, technology continues to play a vital role in students’ acquisition of L2 writing. Explored in this essay is the use of technology in teaching L2 writing, impact of the educational environment, teaching strategies used for lower proficiency L2 writing learners, and the effect of peer and

Strain Theory by Robert Merton | An Analysis

Strain Theory by Robert Merton | An Analysis In criminology, the strain theory describes social structures inside society that may support people to carry out crime. Following the work of Emile Durkheim, Strain Theories have been supported by Robert King Merton, Albert K. Cohen, Richard Cloward and Lloyd Ohlin, Robert Agnew, and Steven Messner and Richard Rosenfeld. Strain may be either: Structural: this applies to the procedures at the community level which break down and impact how one judges their requirements, i.e. if specific social controls are insufficient or there is little regulation, this may alter the individuals outlook as to methods and prospects; or Individual: This term represents the hostility and barriers faced by persons as they look for ways to fulfill their needs or desires, i.e. if the norms of a society become important to a person, in fact accomplishing them may become more significant than the methods. The History of Strain Theory Strain theory was created from the work of Durkheim and Merton and derived from the theory of anomie. Durkheim concentrated on the reduction of societal control and the strain that was caused at the individual level, and Merton analyzed the cultural connection that is present between the individual and the standards of society. Anomie can be split into two separate levels. The first of these levels is the macro side of anomie, which is apparent in the capacity of society to establish restrictions on societal norms and goals, and ultimately control an individuals conduct. The micro side of anomie, also called as strain theory, is focused on the motives underlying the bigger probability of deviance that accumulates from the breakdown of society. In accordance with this micro side of anomie, the reduction in societal controls generates more desire to perform deviant actions (Agnew Passas, 1997:2-3). Agnew and Passas (1997) dealt with the similarities between the macro level of anomie and control theory; however, they claimed that the micro level theory of strain should be judged in a distinct way different from the control theory. Agnew (1992:48) also contrasted and compared strain theory to control theory and social learning theory. The theories vary in the kind of social relationships that they emphasize and the motivations on which they are established. The control theory hinges on the notion that the breakdown of society frees the individual to carry out crime; strain theory is motivated on the strain that is put on the person to carry out crime (Agnew, 1992). Social learning theory is founded on the fundamentals from a group that bring about a constructive or positive view of crime (Agnew, 1992). In accordance with strain theory, individual deviance is created due to negative treatment from others, and this causes anger and disappointment (Agnew, 1997a). Control theory, tho ugh, is founded on the lack of significant relationships with non-deviant others, i.e. family, church, and social learning theory is based on positive interactions with other that are considered deviant. (Agnew, 1992). The attractiveness of strain/anomie theory began in the late 1960s owing to the need of data presented by analysts and the political and social environment of the decade (Agnew Passas, 1997). The lack of supporting evidence can be due to many deficiencies in the original methods used by the analysts (Agnew Passas, 1997). Generalization of the theory and an ignorance of the earlier revisions caused a body of work that distorted the original definition of anomie/strain theory (Agnew Passas, 1997). Together with these deficiencies, modern theorists have claimed that empirical evidence in fact supports the theory (Agnew, Cullen, Burton, Evans, Gregory 1996). Mertons Strain Theory: Economic Goals, Educational Means Delinquency In the history of modern criminology, few theories have realized the impact of Mertons (1983) theory of strain and deviance. It has withstood a half-century despite a sizeable amount of literature opposed to its theoretical basis. Disillusionment with its empirical verification, on the other hand, has caused many to discard it as a possible explanation for delinquency (Hirschi, 1969; Johnson, 1979; Kornhauser, 1978). In view of the fact that the strain theory incorporates both mental and structural account for crime, its dismissal would be a critical loss to criminology. Together with reservations about the significance of social class in the birth of crime, the denial of Mertons theory of structurally induced strain could create a typical shift toward theories of individual behavior lacking structural context. The historical significance and unique contribution of strain theory deserves a re-examination before its final rejection. Mertons original explanation of strain was criticized for its theoretical uncertainty (Cohen, 1955; Lindesmith Gagnon, 1964). For instance, Merton gave examples of deviance perhaps linked with different methods of adjustment although he did not offer any statements regarding the methods by which each adaptive method might impact various crime results (Clinard, 1964a). The consequences of this type of vagueness are apparent in trials for the research of strain impacts on juvenile delinquency. The theory appears to mean that innovation causes utilitarian kinds of delinquency although does not state whether strain clarifies common kinds of juvenile crime for example sabotage or personal crimes of a non-utilitarian character (Gibbons Jones, 1975; Thio, 1975). The theory is implied as to whether strain should foresee crime prevalence or frequency or both, or critical against non-critical types. Akers operationalization of Agnews theory: Sources of strain Akers (2000) has operationalized Agnews version of the Strain Theory, as follows: Failure to achieve positively valued goals: the gap between expectations and actual achievements will derive from short- and long-term personal goals, and some of those goals will never be realized because of unavoidable circumstances including both inherent weaknesses and opportunities blocked by others; and the difference between the view of what a person believes the outcome should be and what actually results increases personal disappointment. Frustration is not necessarily due to any outside interference with valued goals, but a direct effect on anger, and has indirect effects on serious crime and aggression. Agnew and White (1992) have produced empirical evidence suggesting that general strain theory was positively able to relate delinquents and drug users, and that the strongest effect on the delinquents studied was the delinquency of their peers. They were interested in drug use because it did not appear to represent an attempt to direct anger or escape pain, but is used prim arily to manage the negative affect caused by strain. Up to this stage, strain theory had been related with types of strain as opposed to sources of strain while the stress of ones surroundings can be shown to involve with the expectations of just and fair results. These may be major events or minor hassles that build up and discourage over time. Frustration causes disappointment, bitterness, and anger all the emotions normally linked with strain in criminology. It is normal for persons to feel pain when they are refused fair compensations for their efforts, especially when measured against the endeavors and compensations given to others for similar results. Agnew (1992) deals with anger as the most decisive emotion as it is almost always aimed outwards and is generally linked to breakdowns in relationships. Study shows that the stress/crime relationship seems to hold regardless of guilt emotions, age, and capacity to deal with when events take place simultaneously or in close sequence. Robert Agnew In 1992, Agnew maintained that strain theory could be fundamental in describing crime and deviance, however that it required review so that it was not attached to social class or cultural standards; however, re-focused on self standards. He mapped out a general strain theory that is neither structural nor interpersonal; however, emotional and motivated on an individuals direct social status. He claimed that an individuals concrete or anticipated failure to realize positively valued objectives, actual or expected removal of positive values, and actual or anticipated presentation of negative motivation all results in strain. Strain appears from negative relationships with others. If persons are not dealt in the way that they anticipate or want to be dealt, they will lose their trust in the role others play for achieving goals. Anger and disappointment support unconstructive relationships. This will generally involve more one-sided action since there will be an innate wish to avoid unwanted rejections, supporting more general isolation. If specific rejections are general feelings that the situation is unjust or unfair, stronger and more negative feelings may inspire the person to engage in crime. This is especially true for younger people, and Agnew proposed that study concentrate on the overall , currency, duration, and grouping of such stressful events to find out whether a person deal with strain in a criminal or compliant way. He especially found temperament, intelligence, factors interpersonal skills, relationship with criminal peers and conservative social support important factors of self-efficacy. Robert Dubin Dubin (1959) judged deviance as a task of society, disputing the hypothesis that the deviant action resulting from circumstances of anomie is essentially damaging to society. For instance, a person in the ritualistic environment is still playing by the regulations and contributing to society. The only deviance lies in discarding one or more of its prescribed objectives. Dubin maintained that Mertons concentration on the interactions between societys stressed objectives, and institutionalized agreed methods was insufficient. Dubin thought an added difference should be made between cultural objectives, organizational methods and organizational standards since individuals identify standards individually, explaining them and operating them in a different way. The individual educational skills, principles, and behaviors may influence a person to internalize a norm one way. Another individual with different experiences may justifiably internalize in a different way. Both may be doing realistically in their own terms; however, the behavior is different. Dubin also expanded Mertons classification to fourteen, with particular focus in Innovation and Ritualism. Merton put forward that the new response to strain was linking the objective, although discarding the organizing agreed methods of realizing the objective. The connotation appeared to be that not only did the person discard the methods, he must vigorously innovate unlawful methods as a replacement which would not always be correct. Dubin also believed that a difference should be made between the real behavior of the individual and the principles that pushed the behavior. Rather than Innovation, Dubin put forward Behavioral Innovation and Value Innovation. Likewise, in Ritualism, he put forward Behavioral Ritualism and Value Ritualism (Dubin, 1959). Merton (1959) remarked on Dubins changes, claiming that although Dubin did make suitable contributions, they took the motivations off of deviancy. Operationalizing Strain for Juveniles Merton termed strain as an individuals response to a dysfunction between objectives and accessibility to the socially accepted methods for their achievement. Mertons original writings (1938; 1957) appear to spell out clearly that economic wealth is a principal goal in the meritocratic society and that education is the conservative ways for realizing wealth. At present, for instance, a college degree is usually considered as a minimum requirement for entry to a good job or professional job. Strain would be possible when a person is firmly dedicated to making much wealth nevertheless considers college as outside attainment. It is thought that structurally induced strain amongst juveniles would be considered correctly as the dysfunction between economic objectives and hopes for finishing college. On the contrary, the preferential operationalization of strain in delinquency researches has been the difference between educational aims and hopes. The argument for using this evaluation is that job expectations are less helpful as objectives for juveniles since these expectations are too far removed from their conscious concerns (Agnew, 1986, 1984; Elliott, Huizinga, Ageton, 1985). This normally used measure deviates considerably from Mertons theory. If strain is redefined completely in the field of education, the educational methods in Mertons original theory become both objectives and methods, and the central theoretical significance of economic objectives is lost. The basis for this version of strain for juveniles is challenging. Although juveniles may have trouble in thinking about future jobs, their financial aspirations may be strong and clear. For both hypothetical and rational motives, as a result, juvenile strain is a product of the dysfunction between economic objectives and educational prospects rather than as a dysfunction between educational aims and prospects. Conclusion In 1969, Hirschi proposed within a control outlook that high expectations to customary objectives performed as limitations on delinquency (1969) and that the calculation of a measure of strain would not enhance the descriptive competence of dedication alone. As against the strain position that high expectations in the presence of low expectations raise the chances of delinquency, Hirschi (1969) presumed that the (negative) relation between aspirations and delinquency (supportive of control theory) does not reverse when expectations are held constant. His assessment using educational expectations showed that while higher goals reduced the chance of delinquency in his sample, differences in educational expectations are not significant in the causation of delinquency for two reasons: few boys in the sample have expectations considerably beyond their expectations; and those boys whose expectations far exceed their expectations are at no greater risk to be delinquent than those boys whose expectations are the same (1969). More researches by Liska (1971) with several data sets strengthened Hirschis result. Similar to Hirschi, Liska computed juvenile strain as the dysfunction between educational expectations and reported results showing that Mertons stress proposition might be interpreted more simply by dedication or control theory. Therefore the most overwhelming criticism of strain theory relates to its noticeable failure in empirical research, mainly its failure in relation to control theory (Johnson, 1979; Kornhauser, 1978). In contrast, the majority of the studies supporting such results ignored the importance of economic success objectives in creating strain (Bernard, 1984). Hirschi recognized the possible value of income expectations in testing control and strain proposals (1969). His and Liskas denial of strain theory, though, depended on the assessment of objectives and methods as educational expectations Is EC Law Compatible with Parliamentary Sovereignty? Is EC Law Compatible with Parliamentary Sovereignty? Is the primacy of EC law over inconsistent UK statutes compatible with the doctrine of Parliamentary Sovereignty? The notion of Parliament as the supreme law-making body in the UK is a long-standing shibboleth of the British constitution[1]. Acts of Parliament have traditionally been deemed to be the highest form of law in the UK, and the courts were denied the authority to challenge them[2]. In 1972, however, the signing of the Treaty of Rome brought the UK within the scope of EC law[3]. The European Court of Justice has emphasised the primacy of EC law over the national law of its member states[4] and national courts are expected to recognise this. The British courts’ apparent capitulation[5] might suggest that Parliamentary sovereignty has now been usurped by the primacy of EC law. If true, this would be a major upheaval in our constitutional framework. However, on a closer analysis it seems that accession to the EC has had a less revolutionary effect on the British constitution than was initially feared. This paper will consider the relationship between these two seemingly irreconcilable doctrines and examine the question of whether they are capable of co-existence. Parliamentary Sovereignty Parliamentary sovereignty has a lengthy history in British constitutional law[6]. The definitive analysis was provided by Albert Dicey in the late 19th Century in his text Introduction to the Study of the Law of the Constitution[7]. Essentially, the principle provides that Parliament is the highest law-making authority in the UK. It â€Å"has the right to make or unmake any law whatever; and further, that no person or body is recognised by the law of England as having a right to override or set aside the legislation of Parliament.†[8] Dicey expands on this assertion to emphasise that Parliament was competent to pass laws on any subject[9]. The only thing that it could not do is bind its successors[10]. Furthermore, the courts lack the authority to challenge any statute that has been enacted using the correct procedure[11]. Primacy of EC Law Britain acceded to the European Communities in 1973, with the signing of the Treaty of Rome. EC law was given effect in Britain through the enactment of the European Communities Act 1972, which gave direct effect and application to EC law[12]. Article 10 of the Treaty of Rome, as amended, states that there is a duty on all member states to comply with Community law and not to impede its application and the European Court of Justice has vociferously emphasised its expectation that EC law will prevail where it conflicts with the domestic law of member states[13]. In Costa, for example, the ECJ states that â€Å"the precedence of Community law is confirmed by Art 189 (now 249) EC, whereby a regulation â€Å"shall be binding† and directly applicable in all Member States†[14]. In other words, EC law takes primacy over domestic law. The British courts have since demonstrated their willingness to comply with this instruction[15]. In Factortame No. 2[16], for example, Lord Bridge stated that â€Å"under the 1972 Act, it has always been clear that it was the duty of a UK court when delivering final judgment to override any rule of national law found to be in conflict with any directly enforceable Community law.†[17] Conflict between the doctrines The potential for conflict here is self-evident. The courts cannot serve two masters but, as long as these two competing doctrines co-exist, this effectively appears to be what they are being asked to do. On the one hand, Parliamentary sovereignty dictates that the courts have no right to question an Act of Parliament. On the other, EC law, which declares itself to be supreme, expects national courts to declare Acts of Parliament invalid to the extent that they are inconsistent with EC Law. On a practical level, it appears that the primacy of EC law has overwhelmed Parliamentary Sovereignty. The UK courts have grown more comfortable with applying EC law where it conflicts with UK statutes and EC law has become an accepted part of the British legal system. As Munro points out, however, it is important to remember that Parliamentary sovereignty is a legal doctrine[18]. It is not concerned with the political or practical effects of accession upon the authority of Parliament, but with whether, legally speaking, parliamentary sovereignty is preserved[19]. This is an important consideration. In cases that followed the enactment of the 1972 Act, Lord Denning attempted to reconcile the apparently conflicting norms[20]. He argued that, although EC law was treated by the courts as prevailing over conflicting domestic law, EC law was only offered this status on the basis of an Act of Parliament, the 1972 Act. As the 1972 Act has no greater status than any other parliamentary statute, it could be repealed by an express provision in a subsequent Act of Parliament. The legal concept of Parliamentary sovereignty is therefore preserved.[21] The 1972 is not presented as being in any way superior to a normal Act of Parliament[22]. Indeed, during the ministerial discussions that preceded the passing of the Act it was acknowledged that any attempt to do so could readily be overturned by a subsequent Parliament[23]. Of course, the doctrine of implied repeal cannot operate in respect of the 1972 Act since it is not considered to be overridden by subsequent contradictory enactments. As Munro points out, however, this is a characteristic shared by other legislation and does not necessarily threaten the sovereignty of Parliament[24]. Ward believes that parliamentary sovereignty is an archaic legal fiction that ignores political realities and serves no purpose in a modern setting shaped by the twin influences of globalisation and decentralisation of power[25]. He considers that we would be best served by abandoning the idea of Parliamentary sovereignty in favour of a â€Å"new constitutional order†[26]. However, even he acknowledges that, on the legal plane at least, the concept of Parliamentary sovereignty undoubtedly continues to exist alongside EC law[27]. Conclusion As Munro has argued, is important to distinguish the legal concept of Parliamentary sovereignty from a political or pragmatic interpretation of the term. While it may be that repeal of the 1972 Act and withdrawal from the EC would be impossible in real terms, Parliament retains the legal option to do this. Therefore, it is theoretically possible to reconcile the apparently conflicting doctrines within our constitutional framework. BIBLIOGRAPHY Barnett, H.A. Constitutional and Administrative Law (Cavendish: London) 2004 Bradley, A. â€Å"The Sovereignty of Parliament – Form or Substance?† in Jowell, J. and Oliver, D. The Changing Constitution (Oxford University Press: Oxford) 2004 Dicey, A.V. Introduction to the Study of the Law of the Constitution (Macmillan Education: Basingstoke) 1959 Goldsworthy, J.D. The Sovereignty of Parliament: History and Philosophy (Oxford University Press: Oxford) 1999 Munro, C. Studies in Constitutional Law (Butterworths: London) 1999 Ward, I. A Critical Introduction to European Law (Butterworths: London) 1996 Ward, I. The Margins of European Law (Macmillan Education: Basingstoke) 1996 Algemene Transport en Expeditie Onderneming Van Gend en Loos v Netherlands Inland Revenue Administration [1963] C.M.L.R. 105 Costa v. Ente Nazionale per lEnergia Elettrica (ENEL) [1968] C.M.L.R. 267 McCarthys Ltd v Smith (1979) 3 All ER 325 R v Secretary of State for Transport ex p. Factortame Ltd (No. 2) [1991] 1 A.C. 603 (HL) 1 Footnotes [1] See generally Goldsworthy, J.D. The Sovereignty of Parliament: History and Philosophy (Oxford University Press: Oxford) 1999 [2] Bradley, A. â€Å"The Sovereignty of Parliament – Form or Substance?† in Jowell, J. and Oliver, D. The Changing Constitution (Oxford University Press: Oxford) 2004 (hereinafter â€Å"Bradley†) at 28 [3] Barnett, H.A. Constitutional and Administrative Law (Cavendish: London) 2004 (hereinafter â€Å"Barnett†) at 192 [4]Ibid [5] Bradley supra note 2 at 46 [6] See e.g. Munro, C. Studies in Constitutional Law (Butterworths: London) 1999 (hereinafter â€Å"Munro†) at 127 [7] Dicey, A.V. Introduction to the Study of the Law of the Constitution (Macmillan Education: Basingstoke) 1959 (hereinafter â€Å"Dicey†) [8] Dicey supra note 7 at 39 [9] Ibid [10] Dicey supra note 7 at 44 [11] Dicey supra note 7 at 45 [12] Munro supra note 6 at 201 [13] See e.g. Algemene Transport en Expeditie Onderneming Van Gend en Loos v Netherlands Inland Revenue Administration [1963] C.M.L.R. 105 (hereinafter â€Å"Van Gend en Loos†) and Costa v. Ente Nazionale per lEnergia Elettrica (ENEL) [1968] C.M.L.R. 267 (hereinafter â€Å"Costa†) [14] Costa supra note 13 at 271 [15] Bradley supra note 2 at 46 [16] R v Secretary of State for Transport ex p. Factortame Ltd (No. 2) [1991] 1 A.C. 603 (HL) (hereinafter â€Å"Factortame†) [17] Factortame supra note 16 at 659 [18] Munro supra note 6 at 206 [19] Ibid [20] Ward, I. The Margins of European Law (Macmillan Education: Basingstoke) 1996 (hereinafter â€Å"Margins†) at 76 [21] See e.g. McCarthys Ltd v Smith (1979) 3 All ER 325 [22] Munro supra note 6 at 204 [23] Bradley supra note 2 at 47 [24] Munro supra note 6 at 207 [25] Margins supra note 7 at Chapter 4 [26] Margins supra note 7 at 82 [27] Margins supra note 7 at 85

Machiavelli Vs. King George III :: essays research papers

MACHIAVELLI VS. KING GEORGE III During colonial times, King George III was a tyrant ruler. He was unstable and constantly inflicted hardship upon the people of the American Colonies. King George III thought that imposing more demands on the colonists would allow him to reach his goals such as bringing in more money for the British government. Machiavelli, on the other hand, thought that a ruler needed his subjects to be on his side so that there would be less resistance. King George III did not follow Machiavelli's manual for being a good prince. Machiavelli's main lesson was "a prince must always seem to be generous, merciful, faithful, spirited, and humane.† If a prince does not have those characteristics, his people will lose all support for him. King George III did not make sure people from the American Colonies saw him as a good King. King George III did not go out of his way to cover up his wrong doings. Instead, everyone knew he did not really care about the American Colonists. They knew he only cared about the land, and acquiring the largest empire. The King continually broke his own laws, contrary to Machiavelli's principles. Machiavelli once said, â€Å"a prince should always be able to come up with a reason for war†. King George III didn’t have a reason. He kept sending armies into the American Colonies. He transported large armies of foreign mercenaries to kill people and confiscate their land. By doing this, King George was only sabotaging himself. Machiavelli spoke of a balance between good and evil. "In actual fact, a prince may not have all of the admirable qualities listed, but it is necessary that he should seem to have them. Indeed I will venture to say that when you have them and exercise them all of the time, they are harmful to you; when you just seem to have them, they are useful. It is good to appear merciful, truthful, humane, sincere, and religious; it is good to be so in reality. But you must keep your mind so disposed that, in case of need, you can turn to the exact contrary".

Walden and Transcendentalism

Henry Thoreau’s masterpiece, Walden or a Life in the Woods, shows the impact transcendentalism had on Thoreau’s worldview. Transcendentalism is a philosophy that asserts the primacy of the spiritual over the material. Transcendentalism puts the emphasis on spiritual growth and understanding as opposed to worldly pleasures. Thoreau’s idea of transcendentalism stressed the importance of nature and being close to nature. He believed that nature was a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment. A walk in the woods therefore was a search for spiritual enlightenment.One should look ‘through’ nature, not merely ‘at’ her. In Walden, Thoreau’s idea of transcendentalism is broken into three areas. The first is the importance of the spiritual world as opposed to material wants. He accentuates this idea by explaining how the physical world only exists so that souls can experience life to the fullest. Thoreau speaks a great deal about physical prope rty in the first chapter, entitled â€Å"Economy†. He keeps a detailed record of the economic cost of his venture into the woods and explains to his readers his pity for the people who have numerous material possessions.Thoreau states, â€Å"When I have met an immigrant tottering under a bundle which contained his all†¦I have pitied him, not because that was his all, but because he had all that to carry. †[1] The second transcendentalism theme is the idea of individuality- the idea that an individual is unique and should act according to his personality and ideals. Individuality is a basic idea of the transcendentalists and they firmly believed that one should search for ‘self-discovery’.Thoreau observed, â€Å"Every man is the builder of a temple, called his body, to the god he worships, after a style purely his own, nor can he get off by hammering marble instead. †[2] He emphasized the â€Å"style† as an individual style, one that was distinctive to each person. He even told his readers in Walden that he went into the woods to search for knowledge and truth. Self-discovery and individuality were also attributed to any other characters in Walden that were mentioned. Thoreau takes great pains to describe each character, even down to the farmer’s â€Å"wrinkled, sibyl-like, cone-headed†[3] infant in chapter 10, â€Å"Baker Farm†.He makes sure his readers understand the unique attributes of each individual in his experiences. As Thoreau once said, â€Å"It is what a man thinks of himself that really determines his fate. † The final prominent transcendentalism theme expressed in Walden is the importance of experiences. Transcendentalists believed personal experience is how one learned. Literally, people learned everything the hard way. Thoreau demonstrated this clearly in the experiment of living in the woods for two years. He explains in Walden that he wanted to experience living simply fo r an extended period of time.Notice that Thoreau did not speculate, draw conclusions, or even ask someone who had tried it. The only way, in his mind, that he was going to learn about living simply was to undergo it personally. In speaking about life in the chapter, â€Å"Where I lived and What I Lived For†, Thoreau said,â€Å"†¦if [life] proved to be mean, why then to get the whole and genuine meanness of it, and publish its meanness to the world; or if it were sublime, to know it by experience and be able to give a true account of it in my next excursion. †[4] He emphasized living and feeling everything to be able to understand life and its meaning.Walden is often viewed as simply a proponent of environmental care and nature. However, it persuades the reader to do much more than take care of nature. In fact, nature is not even the most prominent ideal in Thoreau’s writings. The thesis of Walden is clearly stated in the first few pages of the book. Thoreau writes, â€Å"With respect to luxuries and comforts, the wisest have ever lived a more simple and meager life than the poor†¦None can be an impartial or wise observer of human life but from the vantage ground of what we should call voluntary poverty. [5] The entirety of the â€Å"Economy† chapter is devoted to material possessions and Thoreau’s idea that the physical pleasures exist only to help the soul endure. Very little time is spent on the goodness of nature. When it is mentioned, it is shown, as was stated above, that nature serves as a sort of looking glass to spiritual ideals. Because this book was quoted often by radical groups in 1960-70, Walden became a sign of disobedience and rebellion to the conservative community. However, there are a few ideas of which Christians can approve. The first is non-materialism.Thoreau quotes Matthew 6:19 saying, â€Å"By a seeming fate, commonly called necessity, they are employed, as it says in an old book, laying up treasures which moth and rust will corrupt and thieves break through and steal. It is a fool’s life, as they will find when they get to the end of it, if not before. †[6] He takes great pains throughout the entire book to make sure his readers understand that material possessions should not be the only thing in which people place all of their happiness. The second idea Christians can applaud is the idea of individuality.As was mentioned above, Thoreau kept the Transcendentalist idea of a person’s individual worth in his writings. Because of this belief, he was one of the most outspoken human rights activists in his lifetime. He wrote A Plea for Captain John Brown supporting John Brown’s efforts to end slavery. Thoreau said, â€Å"I do not believe in erecting statues to those who still live in our hearts, whose bones have not yet crumbled in the earth around us, but I would rather see the statue of Captain Brown in the Massachusetts State-House yard, than that of any other man whom I know. I rejoice that I live in this age, that I am his contemporary. [7] His belief in the basic human rights of every man stemmed from his support of individuality and the unique worth of every person on this planet. Even though there are a few ideas that Christians can applaud in Walden, there is one of which they should be wary. This idea is the idea that rebellion and disobedience towards government is acceptable if one believes the government is wrong. Ralph Waldo Emerson, in his eulogy for Thoreau, articulated this idea, saying that Thoreau opposed the government. Thoreau disrespected government officials by refusing to obey tax laws and paid for it by spending a brief time in jail.However, many people, instead of realizing the negative influence Thoreau was creating, idealized him for his ‘patriotic’ stance. Thoreau says in Walden, â€Å"One afternoon, near the end of the first summer†¦I was seized and put into jail, because, a s I have elsewhere related I did not pay a tax to, or recognize the authority of, the state which buys and sells men, women, and children, like cattle at the door of its senate-house. †[8] He did not recognize the authority of the government because of the slavery in the country. Even though slavery is immoral, Romans 13:1 clearly states, â€Å"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities.For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. †[9] The Bible articulates that Christians must be subject to those whom God has placed into authority. Thoreau discourages this idea and instead institutes an attitude of rebellion. Christians should be cautious of this attitude and worldview. Very few instances occur in which Christians should rebel against authority. The only instance where they should rebel is under a government which demands that its citizens disobey God’s orders. Walden was written many years ago and ye t, society can still learn from the author’s words.Whether the ideas are detrimental or helpful, everyone can agree that Thoreau was a strong Transcendentalist with a distinct mindset. This mindset affects everyone who reads his works. Emerson once articulated that Thoreau inspired many around him through his idealistic thinking. Thoreau has inspired, and will continue to inspire, numerous people through his book, Walden or a Life in the Woods. ———————– [1] Henry David Thoreau, Walden ; and Civil Disobedience (New York: Barnes and Nobles Classics, 2003), 56. 2] Henry David Thoreau, Walden ; and Civil Disobedience (New York: Barnes and Nobles Classics, 2003), 175. [3] Henry David Thoreau, Walden ; and Civil Disobedience (New York: Barnes and Nobles Classics, 2003), 161 [4] Henry David Thoreau, Walden ; and Civil Disobedience (New York: Barnes and Nobles Classics, 2003), 74 (brackets added) [5] Henry David Thoreau, Walden ; and Civil Disobedience (New York: Barnes and Nobles Classics, 2003), 16 [6] Henry David Thoreau, Walden ; and Civil Disobedience (New York: Barnes and Nobles Classics, 2003), 9 [7] â€Å"Thoreau–On John Brown,† Virginia Commonwealth University, http://www. cu. edu/engweb/transcendentalism/authors/thoreau/johnbrown. html (accessed September 15, 2010). [8] Henry David Thoreau, Walden ; and Civil Disobedience (New York: Barnes and Nobles Classics, 2003), 137 [9] â€Å"Passage: Romans 13:1 (ESV Bible Online),† Good News / Crossway Home – Christian Books, Gospel Tracts, and the English Standard Version (ESV) Bible, http://www. gnpcb. org/esv/search/? q=Romans 13:1 (accessed September 15, 2010).