‘Materialism’ and Alienation

A considerable number of scholars agree that the domination of capital, which prevails not only on the socio-economic order but also on the production of ideas and ideologies, is responsible for the fragmentation of cultures ensuing from the destruction of human relationships and interaction. The latter arises from the permeation of capitalism into the value systems, and, as suggested by Buber, ultimately creating the ‘I-It’ relationship, in which individuals identify increasingly with material goods, or derive their sense of fulfillment from consuming goods and the symbols attached to these, rather than the ‘I-thou’ relationship or the cultivation of meaningful relationships with their fellow individuals. As individuals seek their sense of being from consumption, they are alienated more and more from society, which scholars such as Kasser (2003) suggests would lead into the loss of meaning in one’s life and the frustration that goes with it. This frustration is reinforced by societal standards that put premium over the accumulation of material wealth over non-material fulfillment. The Pursuit of Money, Depression, and Alienation This is illustrated in the life story of C.P. Ellis, a man driven to join the Klu Klux Klan by his frustration over their family’s impoverishment and his own insecurity over being a low-income, white American, and his transformation into a contented labor union organizer despite. Born into a poor family, Ellis’ depression over his and his family’s financial status started from being perceived by others as ‘poor and impoverished’ in his childhood, as reflected by the way he felt people treated him and his father: â€Å"somebody looking at him and making fun of him and making fun of me.† His father’s unhappiness mirror the same unhappiness that characterized Ellis’ life as he struggled to make ends meet for his own family later on, to â€Å"work, never a day without work, worked all the overtime I could get.† Ellis’ predicament, according to Kasser (2003), is typical of â€Å"people who strongly value the pursuit of wealth and possessions.† Kasser notes that these people â€Å"report lower psychological well-being than those who are less concerned with such aims.† Not surprisingly, Ellis’ earlier experiences wherein his concern and frustration over ‘financial freedom’ is marked by the absence of a social life and of meaningful interactions with people as his life is taken over by the need to his above his socio-economic status. This makes him unable to see people beyond the labels and the propaganda, and also illustrate the attraction of the Ku Klux Klan to white, low-income individuals. Thus, Ellis’ motivation for joining the Ku Klux Klan, is his resentment and bitterness to his inability to move up the rungs of the economic and social ladder. Racist Organizations and the Reinforcement of Social Isolation The Ku Klux Klan, as a group that presents itself as the â€Å"savior of the white race,† also contains within itself the racist symbols of being superior, a superiority complex that is based on the skin color of being white. The Ku Klux Klan therefore presents an opportunity to feel power in another way, by vowing to â€Å"uphold the purity of the white race, fight communism, and protect white womanhood.† .For C.P. Ellis, the moment of ‘empowerment’ is his being ‘exalted Cyclops’ of the Klan but it is merely an extension of his yearning for a higher social status:   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Here’s a guy who’s worked all his life and struggled all his life to be something, and here’s the moment to be something.† However, the Klu Klux Klan does not give its members a sense of fulfillment that is based on being able to cultivate a meaningful relationship between its members, but reinforces the isolation of another marginalized sector of society—the black people. Moreover, the Klan’s power is based not on the empowerment of the sector it represents; On the contrary, it blurs its members’ ability to recognize the real problems of social inequality by curiously turning to the blacks as a channel for the dissipation of its anger. While Ellis is interested in the Klan for its sense of belonging, he was more drawn to the aspect of being in control—something that, while he clearly could not achieve by being poor, he could at least exercise on people deemed to be inferior by society. Ellis, however, was not intent on deriving meaning from the sort associated with â€Å"spirituality and religion†¦ home life, relationships, and family†¦having fun and excitement†¦and contributing to the community† (Kasser 2003). He was merely looking for a scapegoat to focus his resentment on, from which he thought he could attain the â€Å"large number of possible goals people might have, such as desires to feel safe and secure, to help the world be a better place, to have a great sex life, and to have good relationships with other.† (Kasser 2003) In this phase of his life, Ellis therefore retains the ‘I-it’ relationship in his life suggested by Buber through his remaining fixation with material wealth and the social status that comes with it. Transformation, Empowerment, and Redemption Ironically, C.P. Ellis’ genuine empowerment would come not from material success but from disillusionment with the false power of the Klu Klux Klan and subsequent transformation into a man who recognized that people were more than their skin color. This would come from his reluctant involvement with the efforts to minimize racial discrimination in which he was forced to work with Ann Atwater—a black civil rights advocate—to pursue a better school system for their children. Ellis’ transformation would not be easy, however, and it would only come with the realization that those who had economic and political power were using the rift between the blacks and the whites to further their own agendas: â€Å"As long as they kept low-income whites and low income blacks fighting, they’re gonna maintain control.† This realization would preclude his transformation as he knew more about the relationship between economic status and political power, and as he realized the importance of solidarity with his fellow poor: â€Å"The whole world was opening up , and I was learning new truths that I had never learned before. I was beginning to look at a black person, shake hands with him, and see him as a human being.† The attainment of wealth would grow less and less for C. P. Ellis as he discovered that although material things were important to people, individuals should not let it rule their lives. Consequently, Ellis’ concern on   the goals of the labor union with which he would be involved in later, would give him more happiness and fulfillment, his sense of self mirroring â€Å"the state attained by people motivated by growth, meaning, and aesthetics, rather than by insecurity and the attempt to fit in with what other people expect† (Kasser, 2003). Ellis’ life and general direction is now a stark contrast to the sense of â€Å"low well-being, high distress, and difficulty adjusting to life† (Kasser, 2003) that he experienced earlier in his life when his sense of self was anchored on material possessions. C.P. Ellis’ life and experience therefore reflects the dangers of material wealth as a central figure in one’s life. It provides a concrete example of one man’s transcendence over the alienation that people in a highly consumerist and materialist society experiences, and illustrates the importance of establishing an â€Å"I-Thou† basis of our identity and sense of self rather than anchoring our lives to the pursuit of financial gains. More importantly, it shows how having control on one’s life will not be achieved solely by having financial control, but by being able to appease our conscience, and striving for the higher ideals of humanity.         

Earthquake Shaker

Would earthquakes of similar magnitudes in different populated regions of the Earth cause approximately the same levels of damage? In your discussions, consider both geologic and human-induced factors. The amount of damage caused by an Earthquake does not solely depend on the magnitude of the Earthquake. Factors such as population, geographic location, soil type, and the type of building material commonly used for construction in a region determine the extent of damage caused. If an Earthquake strikes a densely populated region, then life loss and property damage will be high.If an Earthquake of a similar or even higher magnitude strikes a region with a relatively low population, then life loss and property damage will be lower. The 6. 4 Richter scale Earthquake (1993) in the State of Maharashtra, India and the 8. 3 Richter scale Earthquake (2006) in Kuril Islands, Japan are examples that come to mind. With stone houses and a population of over 2 million, the Earthquake in Latur left nearly 8,000 people dead and brought as many as 30,000 houses to the ground.In contrast, Kuril Islands, with a population of just 17,000 and better disaster preparedness mechanisms, was able to get away with no loss of human life ,despite the fact that the Earthquake was much higher in magnitude when compared to that of Latur. References: http://latur. nic. in/html/earthquake. htm http://www. drgeorgepc. com/Tsunami2006Kurils. html 2) How are faults, foci (plural of focus), and epicenters related? Faults that are experiencing no active creep (relatively consistent yet minor movements) may be considered â€Å"safe. Rebut or defend this statement with what you have learned so far about faults. The points in the lithosphere of Earth where fracturing originates are called foci. In other words, foci are the points at which energy-release takes place. Foci are also termed as hypocenters. Large fractures inside the Earth’s crust are called faults. Typically, news reports talk abou t epicenters when they are reporting an Earthquake. As large fractures inside Earth’s crust begin to shift, there is a release of energy inside Earth, right at the displacement (focus) point.An epicenter is nothing but the point on the surface of Earth that lies directly over the focus. It is not true that faults experiencing no active creep are safe. Fault creep refers to slow rock movement arising out of the application of constant stress over a prolonged period of time. A fault creep is a slippage that occurs alongside a fault. A fault creep may produce a small earthquake that can be detected through a seismometer. An active creep zone is one in which the most significant of displacements are likely to take place.Current absence of active creeps neither means that there is no fault creep at all, nor that there will not be any movement in future. A currently inactive fault could become active in future and cause an earthquake, so safe is not a term that one can always assoc iate with the absence of an active creep. 3) At one time it was thought that the deep-ocean trenches at subduction zones would be a good place for disposal of high-level radioactive waste. Why is this not a good idea?Explain what can happen at a subduction zone and what might occur if the waste were buried there. (Hint: see oceanic-continental convergence. ) Over the years, different options have been considered as suitable permanent repositories for disposing high-level radioactive waste. The intent has been to find a way of permanently isolating high-level nuclear waste from the environment used by humans. It is true that at one point in time, subduction zone trenches in deep oceans were a good option for disposing high-level radioactive waste.It was thought that sticky mud and clay at trenches in deep-open subduction zones could be ideal places to bury high-level radioactive waste. It was assumed that radioactive waste canisters deposited in such places would slowly leak, only to be bound by sticky mud and clay for several millions of years. It was expected that burying high-level radioactive waste inside a subduction zone of a deep-ocean would gradually carry waste into the mantle of Earth.Today however, this approach is not a matter of serious consideration because of the technical considerations that are in play, legal restrictions associated with Law of the Sea, and the fect that leakages could lead to widespread contamination. The fact that oceanic-continental convergence helps create geologic formations and sustain many active volcanoes of Earth mean that contamination can be a serious threat when considering the burial of high-level radioactive waste in subduction zone trenches of deep oceans.

Wild Beasts

A general life in demons as ambivalent spirits or aspects of God was an original part of Israel's theology which in later periods became separated into -?good spirits (angels) and evil spirits (demons). † (Anchor Bible Dictionary, Demons, p. 1) As history went on, the stories about these ambivalent spirits were embellished and evolved into tales of angels and demons. The language used to describe the demons is incredibly poetic and uses references to natural phenomenon. This context raises the issue of how poetic references to natural phenomena should be interpreted-?as literal references to the physical phenomena, as poetic humiliations or personifications, or as references to actual demons or deities. Translation in general of terms dealing with demons is problematic. Translations are influenced by many factors: philological evidence and trends, theology, and previous decisions regarding understandings of the term demon and proper ways to interpret each particular text.Identi fications and understandings of demons in the Old Testament are strongly influenced by the wider context within which demons are discussed; past contexts have included magic and witchcraft, popular religion, official patriotic rituals, poetic symbolism, and religious psychology. † (Anchor Bible Dictionary, Demons, p. 2) Since the words surrounding these spirits have so many references to nature, they were often associated with destruction and blamed for natural disaster. The most generally accepted understanding Is of demons as evil spirits who live In ruins and the desert and are responsible for Illness and natural disasters. † (Anchor Bible When I think of ruins, I think of destruction and decay. When I look at Gonzales demons, they look as If they themselves are crumbling and decomposing. He very destruction they are known to cause Is represented through their gruesome appearance.I feel that the aspect of nature Is represented In his organic use of the animal bones, t eeth, and horns. There are a few specific, annalistic demons that nave Eden place together tongue various texts Dye Interpreters: â€Å"wool Deadest, howling creatures, ostriches, hyenas, Jackals. (Longboat 1949: 41-43)† (Anchor Bible Dictionary, Demons, p. 2) The term â€Å"wild beasts† reminds me of those snarling devil heads, and I can't help but think Gonzalez was inspired by these annalistic demons himself.

What is the best type of data to use when doing research in your field Essay - 1

What is the best type of data to use when doing research in your field of - Essay Example e need to design and implement efficient international relations guidelines and practices, it has become imperative that more accurate international relations researches are conducted. Among the issues surrounding international relations researches is that of the best research method and type of data to be used. Central to these debates are quantitative and qualitative data, which are the two major types of data used in most disciplines. This paper explores the type(s) of data that is best suited for researching international relations, taking the stance that these two types of data can be used complimentarily in international relations research since each has its strengths and weaknesses, which could be complimented by the other. That the two data types can be combined to ensure accurate international relations researches is supported by the fact that while quantitative data are numerical representations and the manipulations of the obtained observations to describe and explain international phenomena, qualitative data emphasises meanings and processes that may not be measured (Mahoney & Goertz, 2006). From these definitions, it is quite evident that both numerical and non-numerical aspects of international relations would be catered for if researchers combined both qualitative and quantitative data (Mahoney & Goertz, 2006). That is, qualitative data presents, interprets and explains non-numerical aspects of an observation so that underlying international relations patterns, issues and meanings are discerned and understood. In other words, the two types of data have relative values depending on the nature and the objectives of the international relations research to be conducted. The aspects of international relations issues that qualitative data may help explore and explain are issues whose quantity, intensity, amount or frequency may not be rigorously measured. In other words, this type of data would emphasise the social nature and the relationships of

Campaigns and Money in American Government Essay

Campaigns and Money in American Government - Essay Example It will also provide a competitive political environment by providing a level ground for the candidates. There would be no landslide wins for the incumbents or the famous that are able to hold fundraisers (Breslwo et al, 2000). More public funding would also ensure that the influence of private contributors on the candidate or those in office is reduced. Replacing private funding with public funding would channel concerns of the general public and not a few. Last, the costs incurred during campaigns would be controlled, preventing overspending, as those funded by the public have to adhere to set limits. (Ansolabehere et al, 2000) The two challenges that face public funding the continuous presence of influence by the wealthy and the high costs of running for elections. Money is defined as speech by the court and these means that one can spend as they wish without interference from the government or anyone else and if this is done then there must be solid justification. However, accountability is required when it comes to spending resources on campaigns and these can be achieved if the government requires that each candidate provide a budget. An appropriate figure is then decided on the amount to spend based on underlying factors such as the seat one is contesting. This would increase

Professional Resources Essay Literature review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Professional Development of Teacher - Literature review Example It is evidently clear from the discussion that Lefrancois’ book has detailed information on how to improve the behavior of the children within and outside of the classroom. His description of behaviorism, as well as the social learning theory, is rather explicit. Thus, these elements of reward and punishment and the effect of learning on the child’s self-esteem will greatly enhance my teaching technique and strategies.   In terms of my decision making, Lefrancois highlighted a number of key elements within the classroom environment which would warrant the need to make decisions on a timely basis. One such incident is the idea of multiculturalism within the classroom. The author highlights the fact that different cultures require different approaches in teaching and the understanding of the central concepts of the various cultures within my classroom would allow me to make better decisions for the overall improvement of each individual within the class. Lefrancois in t he organization of the text constantly points to vignettes of teachers within the field. In addition, he supplies Internet activities which may be used not only to improve pedagogical techniques but professional development as well. The second resource represents the work done by a professional in the field, a professor of a University, Stephen Davis. Davis (2007) highlights the â€Å"gap† between the work produced by researchers and its authentic impact within the walls of the classroom and the education system. He suggests a number of concerns he held with regard to teachers’ wholesale adoption of these research-based programs within their classroom context. He insists that â€Å"Good research is a road map and rarely a destination† (14). In terms of my professional development as well as my day to day teaching Davis suggestions of becoming skillful in the understanding and use of research, rudiments is a major consideration. He insists that as teachers one sh ould not wholly trust the research material because the producers of these materials may have â€Å"lost touch† (3) with the day to day functioning of a classroom. Thus, in making a decision about which research-based content to use the teacher must be thorough in investigating the source and publication of the content as well as the background of the researchers. Davis’ article contains relevant advice which would affect my teaching, decision making, and professional development, he states â€Å"one size rarely fits all† (9) thus, as a teacher I must thoroughly assess the research before attempting to utilize it within the classroom.  

Evaluate the outcomes that are used to measure progress towards Assignment

Evaluate the outcomes that are used to measure progress towards meeting the Milenium health goals - Assignment Example The goals set should be SMART that is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. Actually, Nursing’s role in helping achieve the United Nation’s Millennium Development goals is theme for this year’s International Nurses Day. Since Nurses are the only professionals in the world who are available to several people in their lifetime thus they are the key to the achievement of the millennium development Goals. Additionally, Nurses are the largest health care profession in the world thus play a major role compared to other health professionals. Moreover, nurses are well placed and often the most innovative in reaching the disadvantaged and underserved populations. Nurses help in reducing child mortality, combating malaria, HIV/AIDs and other diseases, and improve maternal health. According reports from ICN, the global children mortality (five years and below) has reduced and the deaths that occur could be prevented via affordable and effective interventio ns (United Nations 2008). The number of women who die during pregnancy and child birth has been halved with regional variations. Nurses also help in issuing of anti-malarial treatments and treating the multi-drug resistant tuberculosis. Since nurses interact with residents more Oftenly than not they are able to advice on how to prevent oneself from acquiring tuberculosis and other communicable diseases. Health settings in any community should have their intentions majorly as quality patient and resident service delivery during the phase of care. With maintained health data the health care personnel are in a position know that the outbreaks in the community. Occurrence of any outbreak means a campaign should be carried out and if need be vaccination administered. For example if there is an outbreak of polio children, children in a particular age range should be immunized against the polio (Geneva health 2013, April). Therefore, when the community receives quality services the economy of a nation rises since the costs that are incurred in ordering drugs are diverted and utilized in other areas for development. Professional in the health care setting inclusive of the nurses should ensure that they understand the patients and the customer service is improved to proactive. The essence of the system being proactive is to ensure that the patients’ history is not repeated in the event that they go back to the hospital for check-up. In the event the patient is unconscious and is taken to the hospital by strangers the nurses are in a position to retrieve the patient’s records easily thus ease in diagnosis. This also helps them in managing the data and with the same they are able to deduce when there is an outbreak. Otherwise, with no records it is may be difficult to tell which area is experiencing an outbreak and of which disease. It is part of offering quality services to help the patients when nurses help patients with prevention of diseases and advice on how to attain the same. This impacts to a nation since deadly outbreaks are eradicated as a result of the advice from nurses to patients. Therefore it is in order to say that â€Å"happy employees, happy patients hence happy residents† (Rebecca McNeil 2013, February 15). The nation may benefit directly or indirectly. Nurses educate the patients on the dangers of some of the unhealthy activities they are involved in such as smoking and the kind of diet they