The Golden Age of Islam - 2183 Words

The golden age of Islamic (and/or Muslim) art lasted from 750 to the 16th century, when ceramics, glass, metalwork, textiles, illuminated manuscripts, and woodwork flourished. Lustrous glazing was an Islamic contribution to ceramics. Islamic luster-painted ceramics were imitated by Italian potters during the Renaissance. Manuscript illumination developed into an important and greatly respected art, and portrait miniature painting flourished in Persia. Calligraphy, an essential aspect of written Arabic, developed in manuscripts and architectural decoration. This paper will examine the Islamic literature, music and philosophers. The most well known work of fiction from the Islamic world was The Book of One Thousand and One Nights (Arabian†¦show more content†¦Theologus Autodidactus, written by the Arabian polymath Ibn al-Nafis (1213–1288), is an early example of proto-science fiction. It deals with various science fiction elements such as spontaneous generation, futurology, and the end of the world and doomsday. Rather than giving supernatural or mythological explanations for these events, Ibn al-Nafis attempted to explain these plot elements using the scientific knowledge of biology, astronomy, cosmology and geology known in his time. His main purpose behind this science fiction work was to explain Islamic religious teachings in terms of science and philosophy through the use of fiction. A Latin translation of Ibn Tufails work, Philosophus Autodidactus, first appeared in 1671, prepared by Edward Pococke the Younger, followed by an English translation by Simon Ockley in 1708, as well as German and Dutch translations. These translations later inspired Daniel Defoe to write Robinson Crusoe, regarded as the first novel in English (James Thurber, pg.64). Philosophus Autodidactus also inspired Robert Boyle to write his own philosophical novel set on an island, The Aspiring Naturalist (James Thurber, pg.64). The story also anticipated Rousseaus Emile: or, On Education in some ways, and is also similar to Mowglis story in Rudyard Kiplings The Jungle Book as well as Tarzans story, in that a baby is abandoned but taken care of and fed by a mother wolf. Dante Alighieris Divine Comedy,Show MoreRelatedGolden Age of Islam Outline1579 Words   |  7 Pagesï » ¿Islam- Assignment #4 1. Outline the main achievements of the Islamic world in the following fields: I. Philosophy A. The Islamic world was most responsible for the preservation and spreading of philosophical achievements of ancient civilizations 1. Key ancient Greek philosophical words were translated into Arabic and stored in a â€Å"house of wisdom in Baghdad† 2. Through the Spanish Muslim philosopher, Ibn Rushd, many of these works eventually became known in EuropeRead MoreGolden Age Essay820 Words   |  4 Pageshave experienced a Golden Age when great advances were made in variety of different fields. A golden age is a period of time during which there a very high level of achievement is reached in particular field of activity, especially in art or literature. The most flourishing period for a nation or region. Two different cultures that experienced a Golden Age are the Greeks and Islam. With the Golden Age of the Athens and the Golden Age of Islam, the achievement of these two Golden Age still continue toRead MoreHow to Revive the Golden Era of Islam991 Words   |  4 PagesIntroduction: I’m going to describe the briefly introduction of the golden era of islam.The golden era of Islam starts in the mid of 8th century by the ascension of the Abbasid caliphate. He claimed to belong to the same tribe oh prophet Muhammad (SAW) that’s why he followed Quran and suuah, during this period the Arab world became a center of science, philosophy, medicine and education. Is it possible to revive the golden era of Islam? As a Muslim we should believe that we can do this. But problemRead MoreThe Battle Of Mu By Gabriel 152969 Words   |  4 PagesMuhammad to win sends a strong message to the other tribes that Muhammad’s insurgency was unstoppable, which was exactly what Muhammad needed (Gabriel 180). During Muhammad’s life the state and religion were one. This would have been during the first Golden Age. Since Muhammad was the Apostle of God, his government was a one man affair, which had no specialized bureaus, officials, or other trappings of large governments (Hitti 78). Muhammad’s insightful sense of politics, his negotiating skills, and hisRead MoreThe Intellectual Rise of Islam959 Words   |  4 PagesIntellectual Rise of Islam The Islamic Golden age provided the Abbasid Caliphate with an immense amount of political power and influence. The empire controlled lands from West Africa to parts of current day Iran and the new capital, Baghdad, quickly developed to into a large and advanced city . With control over previous Greek, Egyptian, and Persian lands, the locality of the empire set base for the academic, philosophical and medicinal advancement that define the Islamic Golden Age. Several schoolsRead MoreThroughout civilization, religions have come a long way in impacting modern society and600 Words   |  3 Pages Throughout civilization, religions have come a long way in impacting modern society and civilization. One of the major Abrahamic religions, Islam, has made many advances and has contributed a variety of concepts, ideas and inventions to western civilization. Most of these contributions have gone unnoticed throughout the years, and have been credited by various people, when in reality Muslim scho lars have formulated these concepts. Although some may believe that these contributions are irrelevantRead MoreIa Research Paper. Did The Siege Of Baghdad By The Mongols1284 Words   |  6 PagesIA Research Paper Did the siege of Baghdad by the Mongols in 1258 A.D. cause the decline of the Abbasid Caliphate, causing the decline of Islam s Golden Age? Identification and evaluation of the sources: The Abbasid Caliphate founded by the Abbasid Dynasty in 758 was a major mainstream Islamic Empire, stretching from Central Asia to Africa and Spain, Europe. The Mongol Khanate of Chenghis Khan from Mongolia and rapidly growing from China Sea to Central Asia. these two most paramount kingdoms ofRead MoreThe Islamic Religion Of The Arabian Desert1505 Words   |  7 Pages Michael Pudlin Professor Ermus November 18th, 2014 Allah says in the Qur an not to despise one another. So the criterion in Islam is not color or social status. It s who is most righteous. If I go to a mosque - and I m a basketball player with money and prestige - if I go to a mosque and see an imam, I feel inferior. He s better than me. It s about knowledge.(Hakeem Olajuwon) The Islamic religion may also be defined as your average day rollercoaster; You have yourRead MoreThe Religions Of The Middle East934 Words   |  4 Pagespopular religion in the world, which was founded shortly after the death of Christ; finally, there is Islam, the second most popular religion in the world, founded by the prophet Muhammed in the 7th century ACE. Islam has over one billion followers of the Islamic faith. Although it is one of the most popular religions in the world, many people do not know much about what Muslims, followers of Islam, believe in. Due to the rising publicity of militant terrorist groups in the Middle East, IslamophobiaRead M oreThe Rise And Further Development Of Islam741 Words   |  3 PagesWith the rise and further development of Islam, the Middle East emerged as a key world region. The religion not only dominated the Middle East but was also spread to the West, Southeast Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa as it gained followers and influence. Why was the spread of Islam so quick, extensive, and influential? What was it about Islam that appealed to so many individuals and converted such a large geographical part of the world? This can further explained by the process of globalization and

Prescription Drug Abuse - 1483 Words

Audience Analysis The audience I will be addressing is parents, caregivers and school educators about the dangers of prescription drugs and how we can better educate teenagers and young adults on the dangers of abusing them. There are many ways that we can teach and educate our teenagers and young adults, but it’s important that families, schools and communities are involved. The rate of prescription drug overdose among teenagers and young adults have sky rocketed over the past several years. This has become a growing epidemic and if we don’t step in and do something, this problem will only get worse. No parent or caregiver ever wants to lose a child and it can be especial harder knowing that you could have helped prevent it. Some people†¦show more content†¦Teens and young adults realize when they have taken to many pills until it’s too late. â€Å"Some of the signs or symptoms they may poses are an altered mental state, confusion, slurred speech excited delirium or agi tation, sweating and out of control.†(Knudson) They may be unable to breathe on their own. If you notice any of these symptoms you should take them to the emergency room immediately. It is better to have them looked at by a physician than not at all. As parents and caregivers it’s your job to make sure that your prescription drugs are stored in their proper place at your home. Just like guns, they need to be locked up and out of reach of your loved ones. Therefore does not provide them the opportunity or means to get them. We also need to â€Å"take the opportunity to clean out our medicine cabinets and safely dispose of unwanted drugs.† (PR Newswire 2013) There are several ways that you can properly dispose of your prescriptions drugs and one way is to use medication disposal envelopes. This is a postage-paid envelope that allows people to mail their unwanted or unused prescriptions to a licensed, secure facility for safe destruction. Another way is through a National Drug Take Back Day. Communities will hold these take back days to provide a safe, convenient and secure means of drug disposal. This isShow MoreRelatedPrescription Drug Abuse And Prescription Drugs Essay1413 Words   |  6 PagesMost people are famil iar with prescription medications; almost everyone has taken them at one point or another during their lifetime. Not all prescription drugs are addicting, but a large number of them are. Prescription drug abuse is a disease that has become a major problem in the United States, which affects over six-million Americans. Prescription drug abuse not only affects the individual, but can additionally have far-reaching consequences that affect family, personal health, employmentRead MoreDrugs And Prescription Drug Abuse2022 Words   |  9 Pagesoverview of the increased use of pharmaceuticals and prescription drug abuse in the US. The section continues with the relationship between illicit drugs and prescriptions, adolescents’ abuse, personal and social factors; then concludes with the theoretical approach. The Social-Ecological Theory, will be applied in researching prescription drug abuse, possible influences and protective factors in adolescents in relation to prescription dr ug abuse, to develop focused intervention strategies and educationalRead MorePrescription Drug Abuse2011 Words   |  9 PagesCultivating a Solution for the Youth of America Prescription drug abuse has become an epidemic across the United States, destroying and affecting many lives of young Americans. Why do so many people abuse prescription drugs? Many think that prescription drugs are safer and less addictive than â€Å"street drugs.† After all, these are drugs that moms, dads, and even kid brothers and sisters use. The dangers are not easily seen, but the future of America’s youth will soon be in severe danger if theRead MoreTeen Abuse Prescription Drug Abuse1422 Words   |  6 Pagesleading drugs used and abused by teenagers in America. According to Elizabeth Larsen, â€Å"The Centers for Disease Control classifies prescription drug abuse as the worst drug epidemic in United States history† (Larsen p.4). This is the worst drug epidemic in history because of the percentage of teenage usage. Based on different studies, pills are the most commonly abused drug among twelve- and thirteen- year olds because of how easy they are t o access. In fact, many teens that abuse prescription medicationRead Moreprescription drug abuse1523 Words   |  7 Pagesï » ¿Prescription Drug Abuse Millions of people throughout the world are taking drugs on a daily basis. If you were to ask someone why they take prescription drugs, most people would be taking them for the right reason. However, it’s estimated that twenty percent of people in the United States alone have used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons.1 Prescription drug abuse is a serious and growing problem that often goes unnoticed. Abusing these drugs can often lead to addiction and even deathRead MorePrescription Drug Abuse And Prescription Drugs1487 Words   |  6 PagesPrescription Drug Abuse Prescription Drug Abuse has increased in an alarming rate over recent years! Prescription drug related deaths now outnumber those from heroin and cocaine combined. The abuse in prescription drugs in America goes back more than a hundred years ago. Prescription drug abuse is the use of a medication without a prescription, in a way other than prescribed, or for the experience or feelings elicited. Although prescription medications are intended to help individuals, they canRead MorePharmacists and Prescription Drug Abuse1420 Words   |  6 Pagesof the highest rates for prescription drug abuse, and overdose in the nation. In order to change this it is important to understand what pharmacists do, their role in prevention, and the severity of prescription drug abuse. Pharmacists are known to dispense prescription drugs to patients and inform them about their use; However, one aspect of their career most people overlook is that Pharmacists must keep a sharp eye out for criminals looking to abuse these prescribed drugs. First, here is some importantRead MorePrescription Drug Abuse. Did You Know That Prescription1173 Words   |  5 PagesPrescription Drug Abuse Did you know that prescription drug abuse is one of the leading causes of death in the United States? â€Å"According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, two-hundred and ninety people in the United States are killed by prescription drugs every day. (White)† That number is growing every year due to the lack of knowledge of prescription drugs and the potential harm they can cause. Many people are under the misconception that prescription drugs are safe becauseRead MoreTeenage Prescription Drug Abuse Essay1427 Words   |  6 PagesTeenage Prescription Drug Abuse Years ago, the common image of an adolescent drug abuser was a teen trying to escape from reality on illegal substances like cocaine, heroin, or marijuana. Today, there is a great discrepancy between that perception and the reality of who is likely to abuse drugs. A teenage drug abuser might not have to look any further than his or her parent’s medicine chest to ‘score.’ Prescription drug abuse by teens is on the rise. Also, teens are looking to prescription drugsRead MoreThe Problem Of Prescription Drug Abuse1461 Words   |  6 Pages(Quotes about Drug Abuse). This quote by Wayne Gerald Trotman describes how heartbreaking it is to contemplate on exactly how many people’s lives have been adversely impacted as a result of abuse. Child abuse, animal abuse, and sexual abuse are all major types of abuse; however, prescription drug abuse is a problem that is drastically skyrocketing in today’s society. While other addictions and abuses are equally signif icant, it is imperative that people put a stop to prescription drug abuse using two

Technology Mediated Collaborations in Healthcare

Question: Discuss about the Technology Mediated Collaborations in Healthcare. Answer: Introduction: The present case study is presented with a number of issues in the context of the contemporary ways healthcare is delivered in the present era. The world is witnessing rapid advancements in the all major spheres and healthcare is not left behind. The rising demand of the increasing population of healthcare consumers with varied needs has forced healthcare sector to adopt to novice technologies and implement them in their services (Paul et al., 2017). In the present case study, the issues presented are significant since they are not appropriate and safe for a patient and might result in poor health outcomes. The first issue is related to the suggestion of the physician for a similar pregnancy test to be done for Jane as the one she had done at her home. It is expected that a physician suggests an advanced and accurate pregnancy detection test be done for a patient that is less chances of giving false results than an ordinary method (Nigam et al., 2014). The second issue is that the referral letter of the physician produced by Jane at the Birth Centre was placed by the receptionist in a folder from the archive. Placing the important documents manually in a folder increases the chances of misplacement and mishandling. The next issue was that Jane had been asked to complete the assessment questionnaire at the centre itself with no provision for modifications and update information. It is convenient that the assessment is carried out in a manner that is efficient in extracting all the necessary vital detail of the patient (Considine Currey, 2015). The next major issue was that Jane had to register again at the main hospital when sent for the blood test. There was also a lack of adequate planning of the medical procedures to be carried out as the phlebotomist was unable to draw the blood for the cystic fibrosis genetic test since it was a Saturday. It is ideal that all the medical procedures are executed at a single time for reducing unnecessary inconvenience and achieving optimal care delivery (Grol et al., 2013). The patient care journey can be improved to a considerable extent using the Information and Communication Technology (ICT). ICT can be used to address the issues arising in communication between different healthcare settings and the management of healthcare records (Lindberg et al., 2013). The redesigning of the care services through ICT would include implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR), Electronic Transfer of Prescription (ETP), Electronic Appointment Booking Systems, and Personal Health Record (Wildevuur Simonse, 2015). Electronic Health Records (EHR) are responsible for aggregating patient-centric health data from the record systems of more than one healthcare organisation. This would be beneficial for transferring healthcare information between two organisations as a result of which the concerned individual can access the patient information from a remote location. Electronic Transfer of Prescription (ETP) is suitable for physicians to make prescriptions and for patients to refer to them. Electronic Appointment Booking Systems permit a patient to select the date, time and place of the first outpatient appointment. Electronic appointment booking systems have the capability to exist as a standalone application. Lastly, Personal Health Record (PHR) would be the Internet-based set of tools, owned and controlled by the patient that permit the patient to access as well as coordinate the health information. The appropriate parts of the set of information can be made available to the professionals who req uire them later in life. For a successful transition of the existing health care system to an IT-enabled healthcare system a proper coordination with the patients is pivotal (Weaver et al., 2016). Mamlin and Tierney (2016) presents that ICT in healthcare sector brings along a number of advantages and benefits for the patients as well as the healthcare settings. The key technologies can help with reference to a range of metrics, including- Availability- This refers to the access to best medical procedures at the desired time frame. Waiting time for the patient to access the support systems would be considerably reduced. Better utilisation of resources would also be achieved. Continuity of care- Adequate information sharing and coordination of care among care providers would perhaps be the most significant aspect of benefits received. Empowerment- Patients would be enabled to take part in their own care activities and have shared decision making. Patient safety- Reducing risks of patient harm would be vital for ICT. Quality of care- Improvement in quality of care and their effectiveness would be apt. ICT promises to deliver a wide range of beneficial applications that are applicable for different patient scenarios, including pregnancy. However, there are chances of challenges to be faced that might affect the accomplishment of the changes to be brought about in the system. These would include adequate funding, systems implementation, effective process re-engineering, and the capacity of the Heath Service Executive (HSE) to adapt to and absorb the new methods of operation (Matta-Machado et al., 2017). A lack of skilled professionals is a major issue faced while bringing about changes in the way healthcare system works, since without skills and adequate knowledge of the HSE it would be difficult and unsafe to implement the new systems on a large scale. Training and regular monitoring of the professionals is necessary, and this implies that a team of senior professionals is required who can monitor and supervise the training sessions. Adequate funding is required for carrying out th e training sessions which again is an issue in itself (Lisiecka-Bie?anowicz Wawrzyniak, 2016). According to Chan and Holosko (2016), though much of the communications technology necessary would be available readily and improvements are to be achieved surely iin future, there are risks of challenges at the initial phase while implementing ICT in healthcare. A very serious concern of implementation of advanced health care record system is patient privacy. In addition, there are severe disputes associated with making ICT reliable enough for ensuring that records are placed safely and are not lost. References Chan, C., Holosko, M. J. (2016). A review of information and communication technology enhanced social work interventions.Research on Social Work Practice,26(1), 88-100. Considine, J., Currey, J. (2015). Ensuring a proactive, evidence?based, patient safety approach to patient assessment.Journal of clinical nursing,24(1-2), 300-307. Griffin, P. M., Nembhard, H. B., DeFlitch, C. J., Bastian, N. D., Kang, H., Muoz, D. A. (2016). Complexity and Systems in Healthcare.Healthcare Systems Engineering, 25-52. Grol, R., Wensing, M., Eccles, M., Davis, D. (Eds.). (2013).Improving patient care: the implementation of change in health care. John Wiley Sons. Lindberg, B., Nilsson, C., Zotterman, D., Sderberg, S., Skr, L. (2013). Using information and communication technology in home care for communication between patients, family members, and healthcare professionals: a systematic review.International journal of telemedicine and applications,2013. Lisiecka-Bie?anowicz, M., Wawrzyniak, Z. (2016). Healthcare model with use of information and communication technology for patients with chronic disease.Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine,23(3), 462-467 Mamlin, B. W., Tierney, W. M. (2016). The promise of information and communication technology in healthcare: extracting value from the chaos.The American journal of the medical sciences,351(1), 59-68. Matta-Machado, A. T. G., de Lima, . M. L. D., de Abreu, D. M. X., Arajo, L. L., Sobrinho, D. F., Arajo, . L. S., ... Dos Santos, A. D. F. (2017). Is the Use of Information and Communication Technology Associated With Aspects of Women's Primary Health Care in Brazil?.The Journal of ambulatory care management,40(2 Suppl), S49. Nigam, A., Kumari, A., Gupta, N. (2014). Negative urine pregnancy test in a molar pregnancy: is it possible?.BMJ case reports,2014, bcr2014206483. Paul, S., Ramaprasad, A., Wickramasinghe, N. (2017). Introduction to Technology Mediated Collaborations in Healthcare and Wellness Management Minitrack. Weaver, C. A., Ball, M. J., Kim, G. R., Kiel, J. M. (2016). Healthcare information management systems.Cham: Springer International Publishing. Wildevuur, S. E., Simonse, L. W. (2015). Information and communication technologyenabled person-centered care for the big five chronic conditions: scoping review.Journal of medical Internet research,17(3), e77.

Ode On Grecian Urn Essays - Literature, Poetry, British Poetry

Ode On Grecian Urn Imagine the following: a bride dressed in white on her wedding day, savage men chasing after women, the lingering subject of love, or a peaceful, uncorrupted town. What do these topics have in common? Through the use of these topics, John Keats portrays the theme of eternal innocence and the sufficiency of beauty throughout his poem, "Ode on a Grecian Urn." In the first stanza of the poem which has a rhyme scheme of ababcdedce, Keats introduces the theme of eternal innocence and the sufficiency of beauty with reference to the "unravished bride of quietness." Accepting her purity of not yet engaging in the sexual actions of marriage, the urn portrays the bride in this state, and she will remain like so forever. Also in the first stanza, Keats uses the literary technique of cacophony to describe savage men chasing women into the dark, mysterious, and savage woods. Some of the cacophonic words include "thy, Arcady, and ecstasy." Using these words, Keats makes the urn capture the picture of the chase before any sexual desires or intentions are fulfilled. Since the urn ceases to describe anything past the chase itself, the situation is purely innocent with beauty thus complying with the theme. Also evident throughout the second and third stanzas is the theme of eternal innocence and beauty. Keats writes of a young man sitting under a tree with the girl whom he loves. He is playing a pan flute to the girl expressing his passion for her through music. Once captured by Story2 the urn, the picture will remain like so forever. The trees with the leaves, the maiden, and the young man himself will always remain the same. He will always play the flute and can never kiss the girl. Keats uses the following lines in this stanza: "She cannot fade, though thou hast not thy bliss, / For ever wilt thou love, and she be fair!" These lines simply mean that the boy doesn't have the bliss of the kiss; but the poet says not to worry because the young maiden will always be remain by his side, young and beautiful. The urn captures her innocence. Therefore, since the maiden and the young man never actually have a sexual contact relationship, their love is pure, innocent, and eternal thus complying with the theme of eternal innocence and beauty. Continuing to the fourth stanza, the theme of eternal innocence and beauty is profound with the subject of a peaceful, uncorrupted town. The urn presents a priest leading a heifer dressed in garland up to an altar. The people from the town are on their way to the altar. The town symbolizes the potential of man (cheating, lying, pride, and envy). Then, as the story continues, a bit of irony becomes present. The people are portrayed to have taken over a spiritual nature of innocence and purity. They are spiritual in nature as depicted by the urn; but not even five minutes later, they plan to sacrifice the heifer. But, once again, by freezing in time the picture of innocence, the urn does not represent the corrupted image that is about to take place. It has caught the people in a holy moment, and it has caught the town as an empty picture of beauty. Therefore, Keats once again demonstrates eternal innocence and beauty by capturing on the urn the picture of an uncorrupted town and a group of holy people. In the last stanza, Keats tells the reader he has teased their thought by convincing that the theme of innocence and beauty are ever present in society. This last stanza leaves the reader with mixed emotions as a result of the mixed imagery. This means that the narrator voices Story3 protests of the superiority of the world captured in the Arcadian scenes (first stanza), but is perplexed by the unanswered questions stemming from the silence of the "Cold Pastoral" in the last stanza. He is primarily trying to tease the thought process by making the reader think of something eternal. Also adding to the confusion is the most famous part of the poem that lies within the couplet at the conclusion of the ode. Keats metaphorically penned these lines: "Beauty is truth, truth beauty,--that is all/ Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know." It is said that even Keats was not clear of the exact message presented by this statement. Most critics think he used the terms of truth and beauty in a Platonic sense, as verbal representations of

Free Essays on Users Choice

Users Choice Bicyclists and motorcyclists should not be required by law to wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet should be the choice of the rider. Most motorcycle organizations, such as, the American Bikers Aiming Towards Education and the American Motorcyclist Association, believe that adult riders should have the freedom to choose whether they should use a helmet along with their other safety equipment. They, and other similar organizations, believe that accident avoidance is a better, and more important, way to reduce deaths and injuries than a mandatory helmet law. American Bikers Aiming Towards Education encourage â€Å"Let those who ride decide† (ABATE). The use of a helmet does not always make a significant difference in a motorcycle accident. The American Motor Cyclists Association states that â€Å"Helmets alone is insufficient to ensure motorcycle Safety.†(AMA) While some view the helmet just as a utilitarian device similar to a seat belt, man motor cyclists view the helmet as a piece of apparel, its use goes with their chosen life style, and they feel that it is their right as humans to make rational choices. Most motor cyclists believe that the most effective way to reduce deaths and injuries is to improve driver skill, through training courses and other similar activities. Regardless of a helmet being worn, a motorcyclist involved in an accident is at a considerable disadvantage. That makes it even more vital to avoid accidents that involve motorcycles. This makes drivers training courses, for all types of vehicles, a widely encouraged and perused in the motorcycle community. Mandatory helmet laws would do nothing to p revent the accidents in the first place. The use of a helmet in most cases does not reduce the chance of death or injury. This point is proven with a study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, â€Å"NHTSA found that the average inpatient charge for a helmeted motorcyclist receiving a brain inju... Free Essays on Users Choice Free Essays on Users Choice Users Choice Bicyclists and motorcyclists should not be required by law to wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet should be the choice of the rider. Most motorcycle organizations, such as, the American Bikers Aiming Towards Education and the American Motorcyclist Association, believe that adult riders should have the freedom to choose whether they should use a helmet along with their other safety equipment. They, and other similar organizations, believe that accident avoidance is a better, and more important, way to reduce deaths and injuries than a mandatory helmet law. American Bikers Aiming Towards Education encourage â€Å"Let those who ride decide† (ABATE). The use of a helmet does not always make a significant difference in a motorcycle accident. The American Motor Cyclists Association states that â€Å"Helmets alone is insufficient to ensure motorcycle Safety.†(AMA) While some view the helmet just as a utilitarian device similar to a seat belt, man motor cyclists view the helmet as a piece of apparel, its use goes with their chosen life style, and they feel that it is their right as humans to make rational choices. Most motor cyclists believe that the most effective way to reduce deaths and injuries is to improve driver skill, through training courses and other similar activities. Regardless of a helmet being worn, a motorcyclist involved in an accident is at a considerable disadvantage. That makes it even more vital to avoid accidents that involve motorcycles. This makes drivers training courses, for all types of vehicles, a widely encouraged and perused in the motorcycle community. Mandatory helmet laws would do nothing to p revent the accidents in the first place. The use of a helmet in most cases does not reduce the chance of death or injury. This point is proven with a study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, â€Å"NHTSA found that the average inpatient charge for a helmeted motorcyclist receiving a brain inju...

Niels Bohr Institute

Niels Bohr Institute The Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen is one of the most historically-significant physics research sites in the world. Throughout the early twentieth century, it was home to some of the most intensive thinking related to the development of quantum mechanics, which result in a revolutionary rethinking of how we understood the physical structure of matter and energy. Founding of the Institute In 1913, Danish theoretical physicist Niels Bohr developed his now-classic model of the atom. He was a graduate of Copenhagen University and became a professor there in 1916, when he pretty much instantly began lobbying to create a physics research institute at the University. In 1921, he was granted his wish, as the Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of Copenhagen was founded with him as the director. It was often referenced with the short-hand name Copenhagen Institute, and youll still find it referenced as such in many books on physics today. The funding to create the Institute for Theoretical Physics largely came from the Carlsberg foundation, which is the charitable organization affiliated with the Carlsberg brewery. Over the course of Bohrs lifetime, the Carlsberg forked out well over a hundred grants to him in his lifetime (according to NobelPrize.org). Beginning in 1924, the Rockefeller Foundation also became a major contributor to the Institute. Developing Quantum Mechanics Bohrs model of the atom was one of the key components of conceptualizing the physical structure of matter within quantum mechanics, and so his Institute for Theoretical Physics became a gathering point for many of the physicists thinking most deeply about these evolving concepts. Bohr went out of his way to cultivate this, creating an international environment in which all researchers would feel welcomed to come to the Institute to assist in their research there. The major claim to fame of the Institute for Theoretical Physics was the work there in developing an understanding of how to interpret the mathematical relationships that were being demonstrated by the work in quantum mechanics. The main interpretation that came out of this work was so closely tied to Bohrs Institute that it became known as the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics, even well after it had become the default interpretation the world over. There have been a number of occasions where people directly affiliated with the Institute received Nobel Prizes, most notably: 1922 - Niels Bohr for his atomic model1943 - George de Hevesy for work in nuclear medicine1975 - Aage Bohr and Ben Mottelson for work in describing the structure of the atomic nucleus   At first glance, this might not seem particularly impressive for an institute that was at the center of understanding quantum mechanics. However, a number of other physicists from other institutes throughout the world built their research on the work from the Institute and then went on to receive Nobel Prizes of their own. Renaming the Institute The Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of Copenhagen was officially renamed with the less-cumbersome name Niels Bohr Institute on October 7, 1965, the 80th anniversary of Niels Bohrs birth. Bohr himself had died in 1962. Merging the Institutes The University of Copenhagen of course taught more than quantum physics, and as a result had a number of physics-related institutes associated with the University. On January 1, 1993, the Niels Bohr Institute joined together with the Astronomical Observatory, the Orsted Laboratory, and The Geophysical Institute at the University of Copenhagen to form one large research institute across all of these diverse areas of physics research. The resulting organization retained the name Niels Bohr Institute. In 2005, the Niels Bohr Institute added the Dark Cosmology Centre (sometimes called DARK), which focuses on research into dark energy and dark matter, as well as other areas of astrophysics and cosmology. Honoring the Institute On December 3, 2013, the Niels Bohr Institute was recognized by being designated an official scientific historical site by the European Physical Society. As part of the award, they placed a plaque on the building with the following inscription: This is where the foundation of atomic physics and modern physics were created in a creative scientific environment inspired by Niels Bohr in the 1920s and 30s.

Ethical Dilemma -- Super Bowl XLV Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Ethical Dilemma -- Super Bowl XLV - Essay Example utility is the first moral philosophy principle in that it states that each human being is morally obligated to seek to promote the inherent happiness of the greatest group of people. The utility principle also holds that all human beings are influenced by an interest in avoiding pain and securing pleasure. In Roger Rosenblatt’s essay â€Å"The Man in the Water†, the focus is not on the disaster itself, but on a single individual’s actions in choosing to come to the rescue of fellow crash survivors in the midst of frozen chunks crash debris and ice in the Potomac. The last statements of the essay state, â€Å"He could not freeze water or create ice storms†¦but, he could hand his life over to a complete stranger; and this too is a power of nature. The man in the water battled against an impersonal and implacable enemy and was successful in holding it to a standoff. He is the best that humanity can do† (Rosenblatt). In sacrificing his life for the benef it of others, the man in the water was the personalization of the views held by the utility theory. 3. First, what does it mean to say that the principle of utility is an absolute moral principle? Second, are there any absolute truths? Third, how do the Old Man Snodgrass and Maiden Aunt cases make it difficult to defend those claims about the principle? Fourth, how does Rawls defend utilitarianism from these difficulties in Two Concepts of Rules? The utility principle holds that human behaviors or even actions can be viewed as being right as long as they seek to promote pleasure for others or general happiness. Moral absolutism perceives all actions as being either immoral or moral. This rigid definition is somewhat similar to that of the utility principle. There are no absolute truths. The ‘Old Man Snodgrass’ and ‘Maiden Aunt’ cases make it hard to accept the claims of the principle of utility. In regards to ‘Old Man Snodgrass’, the power of the village collective is aimed against the weakest and

Problems with tracking Terrorist financing Research Paper

Problems with tracking Terrorist financing - Research Paper Example Therefore, when terrorists chose to go back to traditional methods of carrying out their financial transactions, like using cash instead of electronic cards or so, it becomes difficult for the authorities to track such activities. Moreover, terrorists have adopted new techniques of helping them carry out their activities without getting suspected. This paper will broadly look into the findings brought forward in a research done by Torrey Carpenter about the difficulties that national government authorities encounter while trying to identify the financiers of terrorists. He will also suggest a possible solution to the identified problem, present various critics that relate to the problem as well as provide a discussion on the implications that the problem pose. There exist many definitions of terrorism depending on an individual’s point of view. According to one theory, it can be considered to be the illegal use of power or aggression against people or properties with intentions of threatening or pressurizing a government or its society to extend particular political or social goals. According to various law enforcements, Torrey discovers they acknowledge that acts of terrorism can either be domestic or international. Under domestic terrorism, the action is based and carried out within a country and is executed by the country’s own citizens without any outer or foreign enforcers. On the other hand, international terrorism, which is usually linked to foreign groups or governments, involve invasion by the foreign terrorists into a target country. Terrorism has no boundaries and, therefore, any nation around the world is vulnerable to it. He acknowledges that the act, whether carried out internationally or locally, requires a lo t of funding, and up to now, the mystery about who funds the terrorists have not been solved. Since it is an act that involves a lot of damages, be it direct or collateral,

Death on Pine street Essay Example for Free

Death on Pine street Essay In this essay I will be comparing two detective stories. Sir Arthur Conan Doyles story The Speckled Band was written in the 1890s and set in England. It follows Sherlock Holmes as he investigates the unusual death of a young woman. Through clever logic he manages to solve the case entirely by simply investigating the scene of the crime. Death on Pine Street was written in the 1930s and set in America. The detective in this is a more street-wise roughed up detective, investigating the murder of a womans husband. His sly and even dishonest methods of investigation solve the case, however there are a few complexities. Both stories are first person narratives. In The Speckled Band Dr. Watson is the narrator but in Death on Pine Street, the Op himself tells us the story. This means that in the Holmes story the reader is kept in the dark about what is happening because we only know what Watson knows and, therefore, have to wait to the end of the story for Holmes to explain how he solved the crime to Watson. In the other story, because the Op is the narrator we know what he is thinking and what is happening to him. This different style works well, because although we know what he is thinking, we still have to wait to the end for the Op to explain how he solved the crime to the police; this way it doesnt ruin the element of interest that keeps the reader going on. The detectives in the two stories, Sherlock Holmes and the Continental Op, have some things in common, but are also very different characters. This is due to the very different places and times in which the stories are set. Both are private detectives solving crimes for money. They are both loners with no wives, families or girlfriends. They are both quick thinking, clever and observant they see clues and evidence that nobody else can see. They are both brave and strong, and can use weapons and know how to defend themselves. These are important factors in a good detective, which I think is why they share these traits whilst being from such different places and times. Sherlock Holmes was the first fictional detective ever, so it is probable that some of the inspiration for the Continental Op came from him. However they differ in many ways. Holmes is a more upper-class, well spoken and well-educated man. The Continental Op is more of a slang-talking, lower-class working man. He works for a company, and has to travel to meet clients. Holmes works from home; Miss Stoner comes to see him. He seems to do detective work simply for enjoyment, he tells Miss Stoner she need not pay him. Holmes seems more calm and collected, he doesnt carry a firearm or get into fisticuffs the Continental Op does both of these. Since Watson is narrating The Speckled Band, we get a good description of Holmes; the Continental Op does not describe himself at all infact the only description of him is given by the Tenant, referring to him as our little fat friend. The Continental Op is always skulking around bad areas and apartments, Holmes usually takes a safe journey to the scene of the crime (in this case a mansion). It is the difference in location and time that plays an integral part in shaping these completely different characters that share similar and almost universal traits. Death on Pine Street is set in America in the 1930s; this was during the Great Depression when times were very hard on people. Unemployment was high, many people could barely afford to live and so naturally people were more highstrung or ill-tempered, and crime rose. It was this kind of tough way of life that forms the environment and the character in Death on Pine Street. The Speckled Band is set in England, in the 1890s, a fine period for upper-class people. Holmes would have been raised comfortably, and it would not have been a necessity for him to be tough like the Continental Op. He does not deal in the same way as the Continental Op; he quietly investigates a single place, and works without any interrogations or interviews. This greatly seperates the feel of the story from Death on Pine Street, as the Continental Op interracts far more, with many more characters.

The Saddest Day :: essays research papers

It was one of those superb days that makes you forget all your problems and makes you grateful that you are alive. The sun was beaming down scintillating honeyed rays to the earth, turning everything they touched into gold. The wind was a light blowing breeze, like angels breathing softly upon the world. The birds were singing their most beautiful songs turning the trees into radiant symphony orchestras. The crystal clear sky must have transformed into a mirror over the Caribbean Sea, for it was of the most beautiful shades of blue I had ever laid eyes on. The leaves were blowing around on the ground, already changed to fall colors of browns, yellows, and even pinks. The air smelled refreshing like a splash of cold water on your face when you awake in the morning, and crispy like an autumn leaf. Indeed, it was a glorious day, but you should never judge a book by its cover. As I stepped out of the house that morning, I took a deep breath and let the morning air fill my lungs. I was off to school, my Dad was waiting impatiently for me in the car. Beep! Beep! I heard the horn blow, echoing off the brick wall of my apartment. I hurried along to the car, barely jumping in before my Dad started to pull away. "You need to get ready a little faster you know." He said to me with what seemed to be a permanent stern look on his face. I wasn't going to argue with him today. It was too splendid out to fight, so I just nodded my head and smiled. I went through the day feeling great. School seemed as if it had zoomed by and before I knew it I was walking home. The weather was still the same, if not better by now. As I passed little children on my way home I smiled thinking about when I was little how great it was then. The worst thing in the world then was a scraped knee, and now it was a broken heart. As I neared my house I got a chill down my spine, like a cold gush of air when you open the freezer. I didn't think anything of it at the time. It was just a chill and I got them all the time. But now I know to be scared when I get one of

Study Tour Report to Germany on the Theme Industrial Relations, Labour Productivity and National Development

Historical and theoretical perspectives on industrial relations, labour productivity and national development Industrial relations grew out of the need for workers to join forces and present their grievances to the employers as a unified force. Kuhn (2006, p.23) suggests that everyone who earns income through work or is involved in the management of workers is immersed in the practice of industrial relations. Changes in industrial relations and the quality of employment relationships have an effect on the productivity of an organisation. In addition to this, the terms and conditions of employment have a direct effect on the workers’ quality of life both in and out of the organisational premises. If the quality of life lead by the workers is poor, then this will be transferred to their productivity at work as they will not be able to perform at the highest level regardless of the mechanisms that the employer puts in place to maximise production (Kuznetsov, Dahlman, & World Bank Institute 2008, p.31). Generally most people get to know the meaning of the term industrial relations long be fore they even get into employment. This knowledge partly comes from its daily use by friends, family and the media both of which try to present industrial relations as events that involve trade unions and conflict incidents. However this meaning is not the right one because it makes people perceive industrial relations as a rebellious movement which is not actually the case. This is why it is necessary to first ascertain a clear and useful definition of ‘industrial relations’ before considering the debate in more depth. . Korres (2008, p. 21) defines industrial relations as the interaction of people and organisations in the work place. Industrial relations is concerned with how people, groups, institutions and organisations make decisions that regulate or shape the relationships between employees and employees, employees and employers, and trade unions and employers. Therefore industrial relations are concerned with the working life, society and the national economy. T he main purpose of industrial relations is to provide a conceptual framework for ensuring that the different relationships at the organisational level run smoothly. Welfe (2009, p.56) asserts that industrial relations can be analysed using three major theoretical perspectives namely unitary, pluralist and Marxist. All of these perspectives interpret workplace conflicts, role of trade unions and variations in job regulations uniquely in order to generate solutions. The unitary theory perceives organisations as an integrated unit with all the members working towards the achievement of common objectives. There is only one source of authority which is the management, trade unions are perceived as being unnecessary (Kuznetsov, Dahlman, & World Bank Institute 2008, p. 88). The pluralist theory regards organisations as being comprised of powerful and divergent groups which are the trade unions and the management. These two groups have their own legitimate loyalties and objectives. The plur alists consider the conflict of interest and disagreement between the two groups as inevitable. Trade unions are therefore regarded as legitimate representatives of workers charged with the responsibility of bargaining for their interests. The Marxist theory sees fundamental divisions of interest between labour and capital in organisations. The inequalities of economic wealth and power are products of the capitalist system (Kattel & Kalvet, 2006, p. 38). The Marxist perspective stresses that organisational conflict is necessary and it arises from the inequitable distribution of resources. The political economy of industrial relations, labour productivity and national development Leydesdorff (2006, p. 99) says that trade unions have had inextricable links with political parties and movements in different countries. Although some states have over time managed to decentralise trade unions from national politics, others are still struggling to do so. Even in countries like India where labour movements and politics have had intricate associations in the past, independent unions are now increasingly emerging (International Conference on Computer Processing of Oriental Languages, Li & Molla?-Aliod 2009, p. 95). Owing to the historical relationship between politics and trade unionism, labour strikes seem to increase during periods of political instability. During these periods, the unions often have a tendency of displaying increased militancy as a way of offering assurance to the members that their demands will be met using all possible means. Such an assurance acts as an added incentive for the employers to join the unions. The trade unions however, in most cases distance themselves away from any acts of militarism terming it as a media ploy to negatively present their motives. Most trade unions hold the view that the media should clearly differentiate individual criminal acts from the violence that is sponsored by the unions (Llerena, Matt, & Avadikyan 2005, p. 121). Regarding the opinions held by the employers that the trade unions are heavily politicised, the trade unions believe that their employers use their political connections as leverage against workers with dissenting opinions. The unions believe that even before the employers sit down with the unions to listen to their grievances, they always have a tendency of finding out the political inclination of the dissenting workers and then hold talks with the relevant political heads. Such tendencies make it difficult for the negotiation process because collective bargaining is often compromised. Menkhoff (2011, p.77) asserts that politics and unionism have always gone together but the e ffects of the association are gross in unstable political environments as they in most cases lead to industrial disputes. Regulatory and institutional frameworks for labour and national productivity Industrial relations still has a very significant role to play in the social protection of workers in the 21st century. The adoption of protection tariffs along with restrictions on immigration plays a major role towards the establishment of legal systems for regulating labour in order to help the workers. For instance regulations that are explicitly connected to industrial policies like tariff protection with standards of labour in the form of determining the minimum wage for workers have a direct effect on industrial relations (Weiss & Schmidt 2008, p. 63). The proponents of such mechanisms are in most cases concerned with investment and social protection of workers as well as the profits of the businesses being protected. Therefore this confirms the argument that regulation of labour has both social and economic justifications. Protection regulations can stimulate labour demands in a country through policy formulation and successful implementation. Policies that increase the deman d for labour also influence the type and pattern of jobs available within a country (Blanpain & Baker 2010, p. 44). Countries like Germany, Japan and Australia pursued protectionist industrial policies in the form of active tariff and non-tariff during their key phases of industrialisation in order to facilitate development (Thornley, Jefferys, & Appay, 2010, p. 55). In addition to this, most industrialised states maintained their tariff protections until the 1980’s to help them in maintain social protection systems that include traditional labour laws. Lipsey (2006, p. 54) says that industrialised countries also use extensive procurement systems as another form of industrial policy for regulating labour standards of employees of organisations that benefit from government contracts. Therefore in such countries industrial policies have an influence on labour laws and labour market developments. However such interventions are not limited to the developed countries only because even the developing countries use industrial policies as means of fostering economic development and job growth. Bamber (2010, p. 33) asserts that industrial regulations have been curtailed by the Washington consensus since the 1980’s. This consensus holds that all nation states should pursue industrial development and alleviation of poverty through strategies of trade liberalisation and deregulation of the labour market. This implies that the developing nations should implement free trade and laissez faire industrial policies, introduce greater flexibility in regulating employment to lower the costs of hiring and firing employees to attain economic growth (Moreau & Blas-Lo?pez 2008, p. 96). Some people criticise this method as a slower way of attaining economic development in preference for industrial regulation where states pursue development through stimulating economic growth by creating quality jobs in sustainable industry. The proponents of free trade perceive industria lisation strategies that involve active state involvement in promoting economic activities as being detrimental to economic growth. The opponents on the other hand think that active industrial policies are important in attaining economic development and high living standards of the industrialised countries (Blyton, Sage Publications., & Sage eReference 2008, p. 85). Indeed the dominance of trade liberalisation as a strategy for industrialisation is unfair to the developing countries as it denies them the chance to enjoy the benefits that come with cushioning their states against the adverse effects of market exposure as was done by the developed countries in the past. The industrialised countries achieved development under different conditions from those of free trade and without industrial policy. Srivastava (2007, p. 86) suggests that trade liberation is only one among the many industrialisation strategies that the developing countries might opt to pursue. Most developed and devel oping countries pursue economic policies that involve active promotion of innovation as a means of attaining industrialisation. However, at this level it is critical to note that the practice and analysis of industrial policy is increasingly becoming very sophisticated. In terms of promoting industrial development, the current industrial policies are less focused on picking winners and tariff protection i.e. the government selection of specific industries that it considers as being more sustainable and in line with the local conditions of the labour market and business expertise over others . Although this is still prevalent in some countries most current industrial policies are directed through horizontal measures that promote innovation and competitiveness across certain regions or economies rather than being confined to certain specific preferred sectors. Much of debates on the role of industrial policy in both the developing and industrialised countries are concerned with the se lection of an appropriate path to economic development. According to Singh (2008, p. 62), there is a strong correlation between industrialisation strategy, industrial policy and traditional labour laws in the new protection policies of most developing countries. Comparative studies of labour market in southern Africa and East Asia reveal that countries will endeavour to structure their regulations on industrial relations to be in line with the industrialisation strategies that they are pursuing (Dowling, Festing, & Engle, 2008, p. 12). For instance in East Asia most of the states have been able to progress through the industrialisation stages from import substitution to export oriented and finally higher value oriented exports. This implies that the strategies for industrial relations in these countries reflect the different strategies being pursued by the state. Trade liberalisation strategies that are export oriented often have different effects for labour regulation and practices of industrial relations compared to the more protective import replacement strategies. Therefore states rely on export oriented strategies when selling products that are labour oriented where low costs of labour and production are the main sources of competitive advantage (Thornley, Jefferys, & Appay, 2010, p. 87). For instance the export oriented industrialisation strategy of Singapore compelled it to promote workplace flexibility by placing restrictions on aspects like enterprise bargaining and containing industrial disputes by restricting the employees’ right to strike. Bhatia (2008, p. 71) notes that the states that have pursued more inward oriented industrialisation strategies often have tolerance for stronger labour protections. However it should be noted that many variations of these simplified categories exist and as such it is not possible to make the conclusion that export oriented strategies are associated with low labour standards and downward pressure on labour protections than the policies that are inward oriented. However, one thing that remains certain is that there are connections between industrial policy of a country and the labour law settings. In the context of labour management regulation, industrial policy contributes to both the constitution and regulation of labour market through its effects on labour supply and demand as well as the industrial working conditions. Additionally, from a normative perspective the settings of industrial policy have a great significance on economic development of a state and consequently the social protection and quality of life. Therefore the impact of regulation of labour on industrial relations is dependent on the nature of policies chosen by the nation states. For instance states that opt to pursue government delivery of goods and services whether through monopolies or as competitor with the private sector will offer the workers more secure jobs than those of the private sector (Thornley, Jeffer ys, & Appay, 2010, p.74). However, a large amount of these public jobs often have negative impacts on the working conditions across the economy. It is therefore recommended that states should use regulations that will maintain the existing structures or facilitate structural adjustments through assisting the industries that will open up new opportunities by attracting new investments and innovation. Impact of science, technology and innovation on industrial relations, labour productivity and national development The industrial relations system pursued by a state has a direct effect on all the four elements of innovation which are: motive, content, process and outcome. The intentions behind innovation may include reduction of costs of production through decreasing the amount or quality of labour, promoting more flexible and creative use of labour and encouraging management control over labour. Dinius (2010, p. 66) claims that the contents of the innovation process itself may call for changes in the level of skills and need to accommodate the prevailing structures of industrial relations. The innovation process needs to consider the social organisation, trade unions, work groups and the physical form of the production process. In essence the outcomes of innovation are functions of industrial relations at both the individual and collective levels. Innovation on the other hand affects all the five features of industrial relations which are: work, tasks, pay, work organisation, employment levels and union organisation (Dowling, Festing, & Engle, 2008, p.38). Innovation leads to an increase in the level of skills required for completing tasks more than it reduces it. Innovation may also result to an increased responsibility especially if the increased value is closely monitored by equipment and is meant to increase organisational competitive advantage. Innovation may require the employees to widen their level of skills in order to be able to adapt to the new tasks. In most cases it calls for expansion of intellectual skills and manual skill reduction due to automation of most of the processes. The overall effect of innovation on industrial relations is that it mostly leads to an increase in the proportion of skilled workers in the labour force especially in private manufacturing. Globalisation and corporate governance: the dynamics of industrial relations and labour productivity in national development Howell (2005, p. 75) asserts that globalisation leads to the liberalisation of world economies. The liberalisation of economies has made many organisations to make structural adjustments for improving operational efficiency. The increased pressure from the public has forced business enterprises to operate within higher ethical standards and take more social responsibility. The organisations from the developed economies are in most cases required by law to observe non-discriminatory policies in hiring, treatment and paying of all workers (Kattel & Kalvet, 2006, p. 33). However as far as recruitment is concerned, globalisation is pushing organisations into recruiting managers and workers with high skills conforming to the international standards in their host countries. Globalisation and corporate governance have led to certain structural adjustments in terms of diversifications and restructuring both of which have resulted into cutting off of some jobs and recession in the job industr y. The trade unions then started to raise concerns about job losses and the adverse effects on work dynamics and their rights in some countries like India (Blyton, Sage Publications., & Sage eReference 2008, p.52). The same wave was echoed in countries like Japan and South Korea where workers formed industrial unions to counter the impacts of globalisation on their economies. These unions managed to negotiate for employment terms and working conditions as well as the payment rates. Generally, globalisation and corporate governance came into existence at a time when trade unionism was fading off in most countries. However globalisation has contributed to the deterioration of labour standards and strengthened the capital bargaining power while reducing the bargaining power of labour. Industrial relations and labour productivity: challenges and opportunities for defence and national security Industrial relations often affect the labour productivity because it contains the attitudes of the management and workers towards each other and the work itself. As such, industrial relations affect organisational productivity both directly and indirectly through variables like motivation of workers, managerial competence and institutional backup. The concept of industrial relations encompasses the interactions that occur between the employees and the employers in an organisation. The nature of this relationship has an effect on the production process because poorly motivated workers for instance have an increased tendency of not performing at their optimal levels (Kuznetsov, Dahlman, & World Bank Institute 2008, p. 61). McCallum (2008, p. 72) claims that organisational productivity is a function of the morale of the workers. For this productivity to remain on the higher side, it is important that the morale of the workers be kept at the highest possible level. Failure to motivate th e morale of the workers will result in a drop in both quality and quantity of organisational productivity. In fact Hardy (2011, p. 13) supports this position by suggesting that employee morale and productivity always go together. Therefore industrial relations as a factor that affects organisational productivity influences the production process in many ways. For example during times of industrial disputes or when the employees are on a go slow, productivity will not be affected in terms of loss of labour alone because there are other incessant work stoppages, machines and other variable and fixed capitals will not be fully utilised and this will result in low level of output and raise the average cost. The refusal to work in overtime by the trade unions also results in loss of revenue because overtime is meant to increase organisational production capacity. Strength, weakness, opportunities and threats of Germany The SWOT analysis is a strategic management tool used for identifying and categorising the significant internal (strengths and weaknesses) and external (opportunities and threats) factors that face an organisation, territory, city or even a country (Bhatia 2008, p. 55). The analysis provides strategic data that can be used in matching organisational resources with the competitive environment in which it is operating. This matching is of importance in making strategic decisions for optimising organisational performance. Struck (2011, p. 31) suggests that the SWOT analysis is important in helping the organisations to direct their actions to match the strengths with opportunities presented by the environment and ward off the threats as well as seek ways of overcoming the weaknesses. Then analysis id not a foresight approach but just a good starting point for strategic decision making which organisations can use in designing and positioning products and services . The following section a nalyses the SWOT of Germany. The findings reveal that despite its strength in areas like ability to innovate, great willingness to engage in self-directed training and good infrastructure, the country still has some serious weaknesses to overcome. These problems arise mainly from the education sector such as schools adoption and use of new information and communication technology tools and high levels of unemployment. Germany has its own strong areas especially regarding the implementation of knowledge in the society. The country has a flexible, well trained and innovative workface. In addition to this the society has very little income disparities and good quality of life. However because of the aforementioned weaknesses, the country runs the risk of having a poorly educated workforce in the future which could negatively impact its innovation ability and economic strength. Furthermore, the high rates of unemployment will continue to prevent economic growth. Strengths Ability to innovate Good access to broadband Flexible terms of work which is acceptable to many Weaknesses A weak education system that is lagging behind in terms of adapting and using new information technology tools Rising rates of unemployment Opportunities Good quality of life Flexible and well trained workforce Little income disparities Threats High rates of unemployment is limiting economic growth The new generation workforce is poorly educated Conclusion This paper has discussed the importance of industrial relations and its effects on the production process and the economy of a country. The findings reveal that good industrial relations are a prerequisite for industrial development because in its absence, the workers will lack the necessary motivation and the morale that they require to be able to produce at the optimal levels. Globalisation and corporate governance are changing industrial relations across the globe and as such it is wise for countries to invest in education and innovation so that their employees can meet the demands of the international labour standards. Recommendation and implementation strategies With the continued advancement of the effects of globalisation, past mechanisms like labour regulations are increasingly being rendered irrelevant. Therefore countries need to invest in empowering their workforce with the appropriate skills required for innovation and productivity through their education systems. The school system should be well integrated with information and communication tools so that the students engage actively with technology and in the process be able to innovate and bring forward ways of improving the production process. References Bamber, G. (2010). Regulating Employment Industrial Relations and Labour Law International Co. Kluwer Law Intl. Bhatia, S. K. (2008). Strategic industrial relations and labour laws. New Delhi: Deep & Deep Publications. Blanpain, R., & Baker, J. (2010). Comparative labour law and industrial relations in industrialized market economies. Alphen aan den Rijn, The Netherlands: Kluwer Law International. Blyton, P., Sage Publications., & Sage eReference (2008). The SAGE handbook of industrial relations. London: SAGE Publications. Dinius, O. (2010). Brazil’s steel city: Developmentalism, strategic power, and industrial relations in Volta Redonda, 1941-1964. Stanford, Calif: Stanford University Press. Dowling, P., Festing, M., & Engle, A. D. (2008). International human resource management: Managing people in a multinational context. London: Thomson Learning. Hardy, S. T. (2011). Labour law in Great Britain. Alphen aan den Rijn, The Netherlands: Kluwer Law International. Howell, C. (2005). Trade unions and the state: The construction of industrial relations institutions in Britain, 1890-2000. Princeton, N.J: Princeton University Press. International Conference on Computer Processing of Oriental Languages, Li, W., & Molla?-Aliod, D. (2009). Computer processing of oriental languages: Language technology for the knowledge-based economy : 22nd international conference, ICCPOL 2009, Hong Kong, March 26-27, 2009 : proceedings. Berlin: Springer. Kattel, R., & Kalvet, T. (2006). Knowledge-based economy and ICT-related education in Estonia: Overview of the current situation and challenges for the educational system. Tallinn: PRAXIS Center for Policy Studies. Korres, G. M. (2008). Technical change and economic growth: Inside the knowledge based economy. Aldershot, Hants, England: Ashgate. Kuhn, M. (2006). Towards a knowledge based economy?: Knowledge and learning in European educational research. New York: Lang. Kuznetsov, Y., Dahlman, C. J., & World Bank Institute. (2008). Mexico’s transition to a knowledge-based economy: Challenges and opportunities. Washington, D.C: World Bank. Leydesdorff, L. (2006). The knowledge-based economy: Modeled, measured, simulated. Boca Raton, Fla: Universal Publishers. Lipsey, R. G. (2006). Services industries and the knowledge-based economy. Calgary: Univ. of Calgary Press. Llerena, P., Matt, M., & Avadikyan, A. (2005). Innovation policy in a knowledge-based economy: Theory and practice. Berlin [etc.: Springer. McCallum, R. C. (2008). McCallum’s top workplace relations cases: Labour law and the employment relationship as defined by case law. Sydney, N.S.W: CCH Australia. Menkhoff, T. (2011). Beyond the knowledge trap: Developing Asia’s knowledge-based economies. Singapore: World Scientific. Moreau, M.-A., & Blas-Lo?pez, M. E. (2008). Restructuring in the new EU member states: Social dialogue, firms relocation, and social treatment of restructuring. New York: P.I.E. Peter Lang. Singh, B. D. (2008). Industrial relations and labour laws. New Delhi: Excel Books. Srivastava, S. C. (2007). Industrial relations and labour laws. New Delhi: Vikas. Struck, O. (2011). Industrial relations and social standards in an internationalized economy. Mu?nchen: Hampp. Thornley, C., Jefferys, S., & Appay, B. (2010). Globalization and Precarious Forms of Production and Employment: Challenges for Workers and Unions. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Pub. Weiss, M., & Schmidt, M. (2008). Labour law and industrial relations in Germany. Alphen aan den Rijn: Kluwer Law International. Welfe, W. (2009). Knowledge-based economies: Models and methods. Frankfurt am Main: Peter Lang.

Message to Garcia Essay

In the short writing, Message to Garcia, the author Elbert Hubbard writes of a man named Rowen, who is tasked with delivering a letter to the leader of the Cuban resistance forces, General Garcia. But the story is not about his trials, or his mishaps. It’s not about his journey nor his thoughts about the situation at all. The story actually mentions Rowan only a few times throughout. The author instead focuses on the qualities of Rowan, not on what he says, but, rather on what he didn’t. The narrator of the story, who is never actually named but whom can be assumed to be in close conjunction with those who were tasked with reaching Garcia, speaking of Rowans undeniable loyalty to the cause. The situation was seemingly impossible. Trying to reach Garcia who was actively trying to stay hid to deliver a message asking for his cooperation. With no questions asked Rowan sats out on his three week journey to deliver the message. The connection between Rowans silence on the details of the mission, and his loyalty to the task and the ones giving it to him are explained further in the story. In fact later on, it becomes less of a story and more of a guidance manual to the readers. It explains that how many times nowadays, or perhaps most times, success is gained through back ended means. People in general sense do not possess the mindset to focus on a task, nor have the willingness to gain that mindset. When told to accomplish a task, they wither go do it halfheartedly is at all, or simply shift it to the side, or the gutter as the author put it. The main connection that the author made was that Rowan did not ask where General Garcia was. Not because he already knew, but that he knew enough about the situation that he had already made the determination that he was tasked with the mission because nobody else knew either. To put it simple, it did not matter whether he asked or not. His success of the mission relied purely on his skills and accomplishing the task. Asking questions like who  and how ere of little consequence. He had to do it and he would do it. As I said before, the author was not concerned with the journey, but his willingness and loyalty to mission accomplishment to begin the impossible journey at all. The author also goes into details about another man, to describe the polar opposite of Rowan. He describes the man as impervious to reason, unable to take orders, nor give them. Basically describing a large portion of todays society. The people with a society of people such as that is that progress is halted, not because the means aren’t there, but that there is not initiative to find the means and put them into effect to get things done. To a logical thinking person, the conclusion is this, that Rowans qualities of dedication to the mission, and his comrades that would more the likely be benefited by his actions, even if he could not immediately see it, are qualities that we should all strive to possess. To better ourselves and those around us is a mission in itself, one that we should all be loyal too, not just for us, but for everyone, For is everyone shared this sentiment, perhaps the need to send a letter to General Garcia would not have existed at all. The need for us to observe situations, or missions, if you will, from a third person point of view, rather than looking just at how they will benefit us, or take us out of our comfort zones, becomes more necessary as we receive more responsibility to get the mission accomplished.

Imaging Techniques essays

Imaging Techniques essays Discuss application of imaging technology for detection of abnormalities of musculoskeletal system. Today there are many different types of imaging technology for the detection of abnormalities in the musculoskeletal system. These include: The contents of this report will briefly discuss the application of all the aforementioned imaging techniques, and will touch on some of the musculoskeletal abnormalities they can be used to diagnose. The focus of this report, however, will be on Computed Tomography, Arthrography and Magnetic Resonance. Computer tomography (also called CT or CAT scans) was first made public in 1972 and was said to be the most significant development in clinical use of x-rays since their discovery by Roentgen (Oldendorf et al. 1988 **book*). CT uses specialised X-ray equipment, with the aid of a computer, to produce cross-sections of several types of tissue including lung, bone, and soft tissue. A great advantage of this technology is its ability to produce clear detailed images of blood vessels, very small bones and the surrounding tissue. Computed tomography has a vast array of uses including detection, sizing, and precisely locating tumours and cancers. It is also used in trauma cases as it can quickly identify damage to many of the internal organs. When it comes to the musculoskeletal area, CT has proven to be of great benefit. In trauma injuries, for instance, CT has been extremely important in both the axial and appendicular skeleton because of its ability to demonstrate cross-sectional anatomy and then display any additional plane with re-formations (Webb et al. 1998). CT can also show even the smallest of bones and muscle tissue in great detail and is therefore especially useful in complex joint abnormalities. For example, joints such as the hip or shoulder when viewed under plain film examination can hide multiple fractures or loose bodies. (Webb et al, 1998 ***book***) There are also so...

Imagination Jockey †An Interview with Indie Author Ben Galley

Imagination Jockey - An Interview with Indie Author Ben Galley Imagination Jockey - An Interview with Indie Author Ben Galley He’s not just the co-founder of the world’s first ebook store exclusively for indie authors and small presses - Ben Galley is also the author of the ‘Emaneska’ dark fantasy series, the first part of which was recently adapted into a graphic novel featuring art from Michael Shipley.We spoke to Ben about his indie author alter-ego, and what it’s like juggling the creative side of being an author with the business of self-publishing.How did you get started as a writer?I’ve always had a passion for writing. I strayed away from writing through college and secondary school, but stumbled back into it, strangely enough, through being a musician. When music didn’t take off for me and I was becoming disillusioned with the endless bar jobs I was working in, I poured all the knowledge I had picked up about how to be a self-sufficient musician into publishing. I rediscovered my love for writing, and it went hand-in-hand with what I’d learned about being an independent artist. It was perfect timing!Did you start off thinking of going the traditionally published route? How did that background knowledge about being an independent musician shape how you were thinking about writing and publishing?I studied music at the Contemporary Academy of Music in Guildford. They’re a very eyes-wide-open institution, and they taught me to be very independent and how to run businesses in a digital world. Those skills, amazingly, translated very well into the book world, which at the time was just entering its digital revolution.After finishing the manuscript for The Written, I began to research publishing options, and I discovered the emerging concept of self-publishing. I suddenly realised I could do it myself, and bend my ACM skills into this new industry. Not only that, but by going indie and DIY I could shave 18 months off my release schedule, keep 70% of my royalties, and get to control my career. I haven’t looked back since!What’s the most important thing to creating a successful indie book?It’s about being professional and aiming for the highest quality you can. I recognised early on that these were key, if not the keys to success – your books need to look as good as, if not better than, a traditionally published book. So, if you want a good shot at making a living and standing out from the crowd, use professionals: cover designers, editors, formatters, they are very important, and will help make sure your book is as professional as can be.Have you been enabled to try new experiments because you’ve been an indie?Absolutely, and a great example of that is my Emaneska graphic novel, which will be released this December. I regularly have conversations with traditional-author friends where they’re saying â€Å"I wish I could do this, I wish I could do that.† Sadly, these authors are tied to contracts and the publisher’s whim. If an idea is not in the publisher’s financial game plan, or if it’s not a commercial trend, is generally not willing to take a punt. This means that these authors are limited in what they can do. Indies aren’t shackled by that.The Written graphic novel is something I probably would not have been able to do with a traditional publisher. I’m talking very generally, but as an indie I can make a decision and get started all in the same hour, no questions asked and no permission needed. That’s why I was able to set up a Kickstarter project, raise over  £5,500, hire an artist, and just get it done. It’s been a lot of work, but it’s testament to how free and agile indies are.How do you work creatively? Do you have any tips on how to disrupt writer’s block?I worry this is going to sound a bit pompous, but I don’t believe in writer’s block. I think it’s psychosomatic. Writer’s block normally happens when you don’t not know what you’re writing (i.e. you haven’t got a plan), why you’re writing, or you’re simply in the wrong frame of mind or environment. Writer’s block usually comes about for one or more of these reasons. I believe in setting time aside, having a dedicated space, and being clear about my goals and what I have to do. To date, that has kept the block at bay, and I can usually write every day without fail. Again practise helps you realise what works for you. Sometimes I need a little music to put me in a mood, that can really help. If I’ve done everything right it flows, and it normally doesn’t stop flowing until I can’t see because my eyes are so tired. If the block ever strikes, step back, re-analyse and refocus.How about when you’re generating ideas?Some of my best ideas come while I’m absorbing other media. I’m constantly inspired by movies, TV, music, and of course, books. Initial concepts have always come ve ry sporadically but naturally to me, literally springing out of thin air. Once I have a concept, I then sit down to formulate a book or story around that idea. Then it’s about locking the door, closing the window, and focussing. I use music a lot for that, something without lyrics, something very musical - I close my eyes and let the ideas and characters run away with themselves. I see where they end up, and if I like it I’ll write it down, pause the music, make some notes, and then go back. What I never do is dismiss an idea, no matter how trivial. I note everything down. You never know when you’ll need it.That sounds very pleasantly intuitive.Exactly. You’re not forcing yourself. You’re not sitting there going â€Å"I want this to happen, how can I make this happen?† Sometimes the ideas that come organically are the ideas that are best for the book and for the readers.What’s your editing process like?First of all I go through the ma nuscript once or twice myself. I work back through the book, reaffirming the structure and big concepts first, then I go through it again to focus on rewriting and correcting mistakes, and improving it overall. If I need to, I’ll go through it a third time before sending it through to my professional editor, Kevin. The right editor can do a huge amount for you and your book – an editor who can identify with your style, your genre, or you – or ideally all three! There’re a lot of editors out there, so it’s a matter of shopping around and finding the right one for you.Finally, what sort of stuff do you like to read?Lots and lots of fantasy. I just love it, and that’s why I write it. I’m reading ‘Queen of Tearling’ at the moment. I read a lot of mythology as well, a lot of Nordic mythology, Icelandic poetry, Greek and Roman classics, and recently near-Eastern mythology. That comes hand-in-hand with research, and I’m genuinely interested in it.Thanks for your time Ben!

Politics of development Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Politics of development - Article Example Globalization reduces rather than contributes to inequalities giving low developed nations a chance to progress and grow, acquire new technologies and innovations in all spheres of life. Globalization has both positive and negative impact on the third world countries identified by the development stage and economic possibilities. For the third world countries, positive effects of globalization involve free trade and integrated economic relations, low barriers to trade and cultural communication, political unity and easy travel, technology transfer and labor turnover. Governments take measures to make their economies more or less attractive to global investors. In addition, nation-states have retained control over education, infrastructure, and, most importantly, population movements. Indeed, immigration control, together with population registration and monitoring, has often been cited as the most notable exception to the general trend towards global integration. (Friedman 2000). Although only 2% of the world's population live outside their country of origin, immigration control has become a central issue in most advanced nations. Many governments seek to restrict population flows, particularly those originating in the poor countries of the global South. Even in the United States, annual inflows of about 600 ,000 immigrants during the 1990s reached only half the levels recorded during the first two decades of the 20th century (Stiglitz 2002). Finally, the series of drastic national security measures that were implemented worldwide as a response to the terrorist attacks of 9/11 reflect political dynamics that run counter to the hyper-globalizers' predictions of a borderless world. Some civil rights advocates even fear that the enormous resurgence of patriotism around the world might enable states to re-impose restrictions on the freedom of movement and assembly (Wade et al 2006). At the same time, however, the activities of global terrorist networks have revealed the inadequacy of conventional national security structures based on the modern nation-state system, thus forcing national governments to engage in new forms of international cooperation (Hirst and Thompson 1999). Following Stiglitz (2002): "Globalization can further be defined as the arrival of 'self-generating capital' at the global level: that is, capital as capital, capital in the form of the TNC, free of national loyalties, controls, and interests. This is different from the mere internationalization of capital, which assumes a world of national capitals and nation states; it is the supersession by capital of the nation state (p. 10). At the outset of the 21st century, the world finds itself in a transitional phase between the modern nation-state system and postmodern forms of global governance (Yip 1995). Regional clubs and agencies have sprung up across the world, leading some observers to speculate that they will eventually replace nation-states as the basic unit of governance. Starting out as attempts to integrate regional economies, these regional blocs have, in some cases, already evolved into loose political federations with common institutions of governance. On a global level, governments have formed a number of international organizations, including the UN, NATO,

Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 35

Case Study Example First of all, the condition of the two mothers when their children became sick has to be given the first priority i.e. were they breast-feeding their children? Could they have been infected by the disease? Where they live and what type of food they eat when breast-feeding. In addition, it would be prudent to determine the age of the children, when they became sick for instance: Did they fall sick at the same age? Consequently, various environmental factors would be taken into consideration for example: The environment of the working place; where they come from; and the people they interact with at the work place. The second step would involve undertaking scientific tests on the factors identified to determine if they could cause diseases with similar symptoms. However, specific consideration would be given to the composition of the mother’s milk and if possible compared to the laboratory results of the breast milk of the co-worker: This is only possible if the laboratory results indicating the chemical component of the co-worker’s breast milk is available. Research indicates that there is a high sense of relationship between certain diseases and industries (Handley 2001). This is mostly evident when there is one family member working in an industry or when there is an industry next to a residential place. In this regard, there would be a case for the woman in the court (Handley 2001). However, such allegations would require proper proof/ medical evidence for the woman to win. On the other hand, there are various occupational health and safety laws that are applied in industries to not only protect the lives of the workers and the environment, but also their family members (Hartnett 2008). The woman win the case in the event that the court finds out that such rules are not properly followed by the company as

Nutrition Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Nutrition - Coursework Example On average, most people are supposed to have a calories percentage from carbohydrates of approximately 50 percent, and between 16- 21 percent from protein and 30 percent from a fat source (Berni et al., 2008). Another importance is total micronutrients intake. Though in small quantities, micronutrients are critical for a number of body functions. A diverse diet raises the probability that all your minerals and vitamins needs will be met (Collins, Myatt, & Golden, 1998). The final importance is hydration, which is an important concern since our bodies contain about 60-75 percent of water, which is critical in transport, temperature regulation and nutrients absorption (Collins & Myatt, 2000). The results show that proteins, fats and carbohydrates are the 3 major macronutrients due to their roles in the human body. They are the main components of our diet. Our bodies also require others nutrients such as vitamins and minerals even though in much smaller quantities. They are therefore referred to as micronutrients. Each macronutrient has vital functions in the body (Kattelmann, 2006). Its main role in the body includes building, maintaining and repairing body tissue. It’s highly recommended to physically active individuals because their muscle tissue is in constant need of repair. The other roles of protein in the body are production of enzymes and hormones, which perform vital functions. Proteins are also used to aid in the immune process (Knivsberg, 2003). The main function of fat is protection among its many roles in the human body. Insulation for keeping body temperature and protection of body organs through cushioning are also functions of fat in the body. Fats promote growth and development and maintain cell membranes. In addition, fats play a vital role in vitamin digestion. Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble vitamins which mean that for them to be absorbed into the system of the body; they need fats (Metheny et al.,

Relationship Of Religion And Afghanistan Politics Essay

Relationship Of Religion And Afghanistan Politics Essay Historically, religion has a strong influence in every aspect of life, especially politics, in Afghanistan. The relationship between these two entities has been established for long time. The religion of Islam has been always integrated into the political and educational system of the country. Afghanistans constitution is derived from Islamic Sharia laws, which has combined religious and secular systems. The amalgamation of religion and politics in Afghanistan has caused decades of instability and in order to stabilize the country the politics and education system should be separated from the religion. We believe that Islam is the superior religion, and we appreciate the Islamic laws. However, religious leaders who are in the politics are misusing Islamic decrees. Therefore, it is not only defaming Islam, but also creating misunderstanding between nations, slowing down the economy and becoming a reason for conflicts in the county. To stabilize the country, apply human rights, and bring overall peace in Afghanistan, there should be compatibility between religion and politics. This can be possible through a secular system to fragment the religious elite powers from the state or in Islamic point of view Ijtihad (General acceptance of new concepts and privileges in to Islamic Sharia law) in the religion. For the first time in the history of Afghanistan, King Amanullah Khan brought magnificent reforms in the political and education systems of the country during 1928 after his state visit from Europe. King Amanuallah Khan struggled to apply European norms in Afghanistan. He realized that a secular system is the best solution to overcome dilemmas in the country. Europe could not stop their internal political problems for many decades due to religion influences between the sects of Christianity. After years of quarrels Europeans realized that beside religion, which directs spiritual life, government should control secular life. Europeans achieved their goals and created a strong union by their novel idea of separation of religion from state. The king chose the same strategy, but the strong bonds of religious parties and their extremist movements failed him. The religious leaders with public furor turned down the system and ousted the king from the throne(Riza). The newborn secular system was devastated by religious bodies, which changed governments systems. The secular schools, including girls schools, closed. Women divorce rights ended. They abolished the secular courts and replaced them by Sharia law courts, which are still applicable. Overall, Afghanistan relinquished a huge opportunity and faced challenges that led the country to the current instability in every aspect of life, especially politics, education, and social integrity (Riza). The state system was already mixing with strong Sharia law, so that the country faced a dark age of obstacles, three decades of war and Soviet invasion. After the collapse of communist regime, Mujahedeen took over the power and civil war started in the country. It was not long that the fundamentalist Taliban captured Afghanistan. These extremists not only were deprived from global modernity, but also neglect of the real Islamic knowledge. They were claiming on applying pure Islamic Sharia law. In actuality, they applied a system that was anti-Islamic and anti-human means. After the collapse of the Taliban regime, the world supported Afghans and changed the government system of the country. Afghanistans new constitution ratified, an amalgamate government formed. Yet religious parties are strongly involved in the system. They interfere in every component of the government. Indeed, they are a strong barrier against application of democracy in the country and people are still suffering. On the other hand, the legal system is a mixture of devout and customs that mostly religious leaders are practicing customary ideas inside the Islamic laws. It contradicts both Sharia law and human rights. Because of the less and primitive cultural and madrasas knowledge most religious leaders cannot distinguish between Sharia laws and old practiced customs. For example, in the rural regions they are applying a customary concept called Baad. In Baad case when, there is a conflict between two families or relatives, if anyone is killed from any side, to resolve this dispute, the murderers side usually gives his daughter or a girl to the victims family. It is opposite to any Islamic and state laws in the world. This custom is completely against human rights, even not acceptable in the Islamic law, yet it is practiced in many parts of the country. If there were a secular state legal system established in the country, the state would resolve the issue and people would not suffer. Likewise, religion influences has strongly affected globalization and the national interest of Afghanistan. The world market is so diverse now, globalization interconnects the world, and countries have close business relationship in most cases without consideration of differences in ethnicity, language, and religion. Nevertheless, in a country like Afghanistan the devout leaders and their wrong interpretation of Islam have severely damaged the national interest of the country. As an example, a few months ago the Ministry of Work and Social interaction presented a draft of new law for two days of national holiday in a week to the parliament. The ministry clearly pointed the reasons behind its appeal. They calculated the saving of total cost of government employees during the one day off. In broader prospect, Afghanistans official days has a serious problem with global market. Many businesses are suffering from global transactions, because of the clashes between the holidays in Afghani stan and the rest of world. We have one and half-day holiday during a week, half day off on Thursdays and one day off on Friday. Conversely, most countries especially the Europe and market-oriented countries such as US and China are off on Saturday and Sunday. There is a delay of any business activity at least for two days, which can create huge financial damages for businesses in the country. Besides the strong reasons of the Ministry, the parliament of Afghanistan rejected this draft of law. Because, the parliament is consists of many religious leaders they strongly refused to ratify this law. Their only reason behind was that it is an infidel movement and Afghanistan is an Islamic country. Parliament declared that never want to copy the Christian and Jewish customs and refused the draft. They have forgotten that the Saudi Arabia, which is believe to be the center of Islam, has accepted the two days of holiday because of its compatibility with global market and other political issues. I strongly believe that Afghanistan will never triumph over its economic and political struggles, unless the religious leaders are removed from politics and the separation of the state from the religion. Similarly, ignorant religious leaders deprive women of education. We accept that there are certain rights for women in Islam. However, we cannot compare the current modern area with 1,400 years ago. Moreover, a secular system to stabilize the society and apply the human rights should be compatible with the religion and modernity. Sociologist Steve Bruce argues that: Modernity undermines religion, except when it finds some major social role to play other than mediating the natural and supernatural worlds.(Bruce) In the broader view if religion steps outside of its traditional roles and takes on tasks or identities that are useful on a broader social scale, then it is possible for religion to maintain itself into modernity(Barker). In Islam, it is possible through Ijtihad, which Muslims scholars come to gather and introduce new contemporary concepts and privileges into Islamic Sharia law. The concept of Steve Bruce is acceptable in Islam via Ijtihad. They can include further womens rights inside Islamic laws including education, divorce, and gender equality. Unfortunately, considering Afghanistans situation and its religious and political leaders, it is impossible to apply Ijtihad. Therefore, the only proper way to bring prosperity to the people and the country is to set the religious leaders aside from politics. Let them to practice their religion and the government to do its job, like Turkey, another Islamic country. At the same time, education in Afghanistan like other Muslim countries has a long history. Islam had a major role on Afghan education for centuries. Today, education consists of three different categories: traditional or indigenous (pre-Islamic), modern, and Islamic education. Within the last category, there are four types of Islamic schools in Afghanistan: mosque schools; traditional madrasa, first level; second level; and the modern madrasa or in other words Islamic studies in university level. In addition, Arabic schools have appeared from the eighties and onwards. Moreover, Islam has been a dominant religion in most parts of the country for more than 1200 years and Islamic education has reached many parts of the population including rural people living in remote areas. The Koranic education not only teaches Koran but also writing, reading and counting to rural villagers, -i.e. boys and men. Islam also includes Sharia law, which infers that legal regulations and documents used among illiterate people. During the early twentieth century, the leaders tried to modernize the country, and were influenced by the developments in Turkey. The first constitution was approved on 1923 and more opportunities were given to education, and girls were also allowed to go to school. During the supremacy of King Zahir Shah (1933-1973) the government adopted new constitution and there was a significant growth in modern sector. An Islamist movement was crushed in 1975 and its leaders fled to Pakistan (Karlsson and Mansory). Throughout the 20th century there have been excessive waves of both liberal reform and traditionalist movements in Afghanistan. In the meantime, struggles over control of the education system have become a major competition between democratic and Islamist parties. The democratic and Islamist parties of the Mujahedeen have all tried to shape the political and ideological landscape of Afghanistan by carrying out reforms and religious decrees through education institutions. Afghanistan suffered immensely from the struggles for secular and religious control of educational institutions. Control of the education system has been a mobilizing force for the Mujahedeen movement, the socialists, and the overthrow of the Soviet-made government and the rise of the Taliban. There have been Links between the radical madrassas and the formation of the Taliban and involvement of such institutions of education in breeding Islamic extremism and have been a considerable factor on the security of the Afghan state (Afghanitan and Education). The struggles between secular and religious control of educational has almost totally collapsed the social sector. The literacy rate, for men 45 per cent and for women 11 per cent, among the lowest in the world. (Carlson and Mansory) Gender discrimination has been strengthened in the last decades. Over gender issues there have been many insurrections and battles in Afghanistan. Often, when womens participation in education has been enhanced, it has provoked counteractions. It is an empirical fact that education is a component of human security and one of the most important cornerstones of a society. Every society in the world has known the importance of secular education system and replicates each others experiences in peace-building and conflict prevention. A great example could be Turkey, which is one of the most developed Islamic countries in the world. Afghan government can imitate the Turkey experience and build a prosperous state. Education is a key component in creating communities and grantees their stability. However, the institutional aspects of education can also function as a root cause and source of conflict. This dual nature of education implies both the positive, or peace building and the negative, or conflict enhancing potential. Decades of instability in Afghanistan shows the linkage between institutional education and conflict, which has inadvertently helped to create the conditions for further conflict instead of building a foundation for reconciliation and sustainable peace. Education has a very essential but too often ignored role in relation to conflict prevention, reconciliation, resolution, and reconstruction. In fact, education had been known as a basis for investment in human capital, economic growth and mitigation of conflict. This rationale implies that education should be considered as a non-traditional instrument for building security. Brad Hayes and Jeffrey Sands authors of Non-traditional Military Responses to End Wars: Considerations for Policymakers, state: One, final and perhaps surprising, security area is education. Opening schools and getting children (particularly teenagers) off the streets reduces one source of potential instability, and frees their parents to go to work. School attendance also gives children hope for the future and provides them an alternative to joining factional militias.(Chesterman) By providing a civic curriculum and enhancing opportunities for students, education can act as a unifying factor in nation-building and stability. Education is also known as an essential component of peace-building. The global peace building means to empower the society to manage conflicts without violence and achieve sustainable human security. In brief, I would like to conclude that integration of political and educational system with religion has always been a chaos for countries like Afghanistan. Decades of instability and violence in Afghanistan are a good example to cite here. Afghanistan has faced many challenges with religious leaders who have used the religion as a tool to gain power and use the country for their own favors. Afghanistan political situation will never improve until the Afghan citizens identify the place of religion and politics. Since religion is a fate and politics is a game played to gain power. Afghan people should not trust anyone who uses the religion and play with peoples sentiments and gain power. In order to change the political situation in Afghanistan and lead the country to prosperity it is very important to disintegrate the political system from religion and establish a liberal and secular platform for educational system. As a Muslim I am pretty sure that Islam never contradicts modern ed ucation and democracy. Work Cited Page: Riza, Ali. The strategic use of Islam in Afghan politics. New York. Routledge, 2010: p1. Bruce, Steve. Religion in the Modern World. Oxford University Press. 1996: p 3. Barker, Philip W. and William J. Muck. Holy War for the 21st Century: Globalization, U.S. Foreign Policy, and the Development of Islamic Identity. University of Colorado. 2003: p 3. Afghanistan, Education, and the Formation of the Taliban. Fletcher School, Tufts University Leigh Nolan. January 2006: p1. Karlsson, Pia Amir Mansory. Islamic and Modern Education in Afghanistan Conflictual or Complementary? Institute of International Education Stockholm University, July 2008: p2-3. Chesterman, Simon. Walking Softly in Afghanistan: the Future of UN State- Building, Survival, Autumn 2002: vol. 33, p3.