The Importance of Humanities free essay sample

The Importance of Humanities The study of humanities can best be described as the manner in which people from different parts of the world as well as different segments in time, interpret and document the human experience. Humanity courses can cover anything from philosophy and literature to art and music, basically any aspect that helps paint a vivid picture of a culture. These courses are definitely needed in education to help students understand the world better, give insight on where their ancestors came from and also to assist them in developing their own beliefs as human beings. Knowledge of these documents as a whole grants us a moment to feel a connection between our past, ourselves and our generation. Through humanity courses we learn about the different attitudes of other cultures which can be seen as extremely beneficial in today’s constantly changing society. America has been referred to as a â€Å"giant melting pot,† where cultures all over have been blended and placed all in the same place. We will write a custom essay sample on The Importance of Humanities or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page So it is very rare that you will go days without hearing another individual speak a different language from your own or see religious practices that seem weird to us. In fact, because our country is so diverse, most jobs will hire you if you can speak another language as opposed to just being able to speak English. The study of humanities allows us to become more knowledgeable about cultures all over the world. There will come a point in our lives’ (if we haven’t experienced it already) that we will have to work with different cultures, whether it’s a co-worker, a client or just one of our peers in school and understanding a culture will definitely make that process much easier to deal with. It is easy for us to find new people and cultures weird if we aren’t aware of the world around us. People, who are more acquainted with other cultures and customs, usually are more well-rounded and fearless in traveling to various places beyond the United States borders, which is important in today’s global economy. Not only does Humanities give us a better understanding of the world around us, but it also provides us information on whom we are as people. It’s kind of like a history course, excluding all the dates and battles, but rather focusing more so on how things come together, sort of like a puzzle. Humanities trace the development of architecture from as early as the middle ages to modern age with skyscrapers made out of steel. This course also provides us with familiarity of different religions, how they started, and where their future might be. It even examines the history of education and how the schools and first universities came to be. Knowing aspects like the ones I stated above can only benefit us by giving us a taste of our past and helping to predict what our future might hold. Lastly, the study of humanities guides us in establishing our own beliefs as people. Like me, most people come to college with pre-existing beliefs, not because they actually believe them, but because they have adopted those beliefs from their family members and peers. Most students practice the same religion and hold the same political views as their care-takers upon arriving to college. Once in college and attending courses such as Humanities, many of those same beliefs you once believed in are now put into question and you’ll begin to wonder if you really even believe those beliefs or if it was just inherited. After taking a Humanities course you will most likely develop your own beliefs and have an understanding as to why you believe what you believe. As a result, it is obvious that it is important to study Humanities. Humanities gives people a sense of where they derived from and a feeling of belonging, no matter what their background may have been. It blends us all together like a bunch of different fruits made into a smoothie and allows us to grow as individuals and improve our society. If humanities were not put into effect, our civilization would be at a standstill. The Importance of Humanities free essay sample The study of humanities can best be described as the manner in which people from different parts of the world as well as different segments in time, interpret and document the human experience. Humanity courses can cover anything from philosophy and literature to art and music, basically any aspect that helps paint a vivid picture of a culture. These courses are definitely needed in education to help students understand the world better, give insight on where their ancestors came from and also to assist them in developing their own beliefs as human beings. Knowledge of these documents as a whole grants us a moment to feel a connection between our past, ourselves and our generation. Through humanity courses we learn about the different attitudes of other cultures which can be seen as extremely beneficial in today’s constantly changing society. America has been referred to as a â€Å"giant melting pot,† where cultures all over have been blended and placed all in the same place. We will write a custom essay sample on The Importance of Humanities or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page So it is very rare that you will go days without hearing another individual speak a different language from your own or see religious practices that seem weird to us. In fact, because our country is so diverse, most jobs will hire you if you can speak another language as opposed to just being able to speak English. The study of humanities allows us to become more knowledgeable about cultures all over the world. There will come a point in our lives’ (if we haven’t experienced it already) that we will have to work with different cultures, whether it’s a co-worker, a client or just one of our peers in school and understanding a culture will definitely make that process much easier to deal with. It is easy for us to find new people and cultures weird if we aren’t aware of the world around us. People, who are more acquainted with other cultures and customs, usually are more well-rounded and fearless in traveling to various places beyond the United States borders, which is important in today’s global economy. Not only does Humanities give us a better understanding of the world around us, but it also provides us information on whom we are as people. It’s kind of like a history course, excluding all the dates and battles, but rather focusing more so on how things come together, sort of like a puzzle. Humanities trace the development of architecture from as early as the middle ages to modern age with skyscrapers made out of steel. This course also provides us with familiarity of different religions, how they started, and where their future might be. It even examines the history of education and how the schools and first universities came to be. Knowing aspects like the ones I stated above can only benefit us by giving us a taste of our past and helping to predict what our future might hold. Lastly, the study of humanities guides us in establishing our own beliefs as people. Like me, most people come to college with pre-existing beliefs, not because they actually believe them, but because they have adopted those beliefs from their family members and peers. Most students practice the same religion and hold the same political views as their care-takers upon arriving to college. Once in college and attending courses such as Humanities, many of those same beliefs you once believed in are now put into question and you’ll begin to wonder if you really even believe those beliefs or if it was just inherited. After taking a Humanities course you will most likely develop your own beliefs and have an understanding as to why you believe what you believe. As a result, it is obvious that it is important to study Humanities. Humanities gives people a sense of where they derived from and a feeling of belonging, no matter what their background may have been. It blends us all together like a bunch of different fruits made into a smoothie and allows us to grow as individuals and improve our society. If humanities were not put into effect, our civilization would be at a standstill.

Gender and Leisure essays

Gender and Leisure essays GENDER DIFFERENCES IN TERMS OF LEISURE There are many approaches to defining leisure. Many languages, such as German, Spanish, and Japanese, have no equivalent term. Most languages have some concept of free time. In general use, leisure is what we do for fun. A slightly more sophisticated version would be that leisure is activity we do primarily for the experience. It is obvious that as the machines do most of our work, we will have more leisure time. At those times people may prefer to learn new languages, finding out more about their cultures, travelling, experiencing other countries Socializing will remain a popular aspect of leisure in the 21st century. Personal interaction with family members, friends, colleagues and individuals with common interests will take place in a variety of venues and locales. It is important to note that any form of pleasure-seeking has the potential to develop into addictive and self-destructive behavior Socializing will remain a popular aspect of leisure in the 21st century. Personal interaction with family members, friends, colleagues and individuals with common interests will take place in a variety of venues and locales. It is important to note that any form of pleasure-seeking has the potential to develop into addictive and self-destructive behavior Leisure activities vary according to the activity itself, time, place, economic status and cultures of people, and gender. In this paper, I will try to give a point of view about the differences in leisure activities according to gender differences; I will try to explore how and why gender shapes leisure and recreation as well as how and why leisure and recreation may perpetuate or transform beliefs about gender. There are different expectations for women and men, as it does for little girls and boys. Even when the same activities are encouraged, gender differentiates st...

Earth's Dynamic Ocean & Atmosphere Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Earth's Dynamic Ocean & Atmosphere - Essay Example This refers to the deflection of circulating air due to the earth’s rotation (Mathez & Webster, 2004). This deflection causes the air to rotate to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in southern hemisphere. 1. During the development of tides, the moon offers a gravitational pull on the earth which causes the ocean to bulge (Mathez & Webster, 2004). The sun also offers gravitational force that causes tides. Inertia causes a centrifugal force that causes the ocean to bulge; hence the ocean bulges twice. 2. Variations in tidal ranges are caused by the distance and direction of the sun and the moon. Spring tides have the greater rangers which occur when the sun and the moon align themselves in a syzygy position (Mathez & Webster, 2004). One of the methods of preventing loss of property by erosion is preservation and imitation of nature whereby plants by the seashores are preserved to prevent erosion. The roots bind the earth together while the branches prevent erosion by rain. Another method is keeping the slopes gentle. This absorbs wave energy; hence prevents erosion by waves. The three cells involved in atmospheric circulation are: Hadley, Polar and Ferrel. Circulation of the Hadley cell results in two pressure belts: high pressure (subtropical ridge) and low pressure (near equatorial trough). The polar cell causes cold dense air at the pole which leads to high pressure and subsidence (Mathez & Webster, 2004). Lastly, the Ferrel cell causes a westerly flow which causes a strong downward vertical

Quantitative Analysis of Charitable Donations Essay

Quantitative Analysis of Charitable Donations - Essay Example In addition, they provide a platform for supporters to contribute or raise funds in secure and ethical ways. Generally, collection methods are important mechanisms for exchange of information amongst the donors and the fundraising organizations. There are various methods of collection. These methods include street collections, house-to-house or door-to-door and static (mall) collections. Door-to-door and street collections can be categorized as face-to-face collections or fundraising as they involve physical meetings of donors and charity organizations (American Law Institute-American Bar Association Committee on Continuing Professional Education, 2011). These are the most popular collection methods because they result to profitable returns; donors are asked to donate regularly. Securing donations enable charities to plan for future campaigns since money is guaranteed. Furthermore, face-to-face collection methods tend to raise awareness of small organizations and improve the status of larger ones (Government of Western Australia, 2012). On the other hand, Static collection is a common practice by charity organizations that uses static boxes to collect funds in malls or business centers. Thus, this paper is meant to discuss various collection methods and apply quantitative analysis to identify the most appropriate method of charitable collection. This method can also be referred to as house-to-house collection method. Fundraisers who apply this method call at homes of donors in order to solicit contributions for different charities. In most cases, it is deemed as a regular way of donating but some donors prefer one-off donation. Fundraisers work as a team or in teams in order to approach donors in various homes. Moreover, some charity organizations or agencies may not be able to schedule appointments for next collections from donors. This makes the donors to oblige to support the charities. Fundraisers who work on

International Business Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

International Business - Term Paper Example 54). Factor conditions discuss country’s consideration about production factors (e.g. skilled HR required in a certain industrial area) (Johnson, 2003, p. 54). Demand conditions evaluate country’s national market demand for the good/service to be produced. Related and supporting industries discuss the existence of internationally competitive industries in the home market. Firm strategy, structure and competition are issues defining principles of organizations’ creation, development and management in the home market. 3. Three common characteristics of Multi National Enterprise Multinational Enterprise has three general features: a large corporation with central office and many other branches worldwide. MNE make direct investments in local firms and considers peculiarities of product adaptation to the needs to every particular market (Johnson, 2003, p. 14). 4. Five basic steps in the strategic management process Strategic management is based on five basic steps. Fi rst of all, strategy, vision and mission must be developed (Kline, 2005, p. 67). This initial stage is crucial for any company because it sets the main principles of further company’s development. The next step is analysis of internal and external factors. In other words, on this stage company analyzes structural peculiarities of their company and discusses external factors influencing their business. The third step concerns ‘distillation’ of the best choices and possible steps. The fourth step is strategic plan development, which step-by-step describes strategic measures taken by a company. The fifth step is implementation and evaluation of steps considered above. 5. Foreign Direct Investment reasons Foreign direct investment implies company’s physical investment from one country into building a factory/creating some kind of a project etc in another country. Currently, there are several reasons for FDI (Johnson, 2003, p. 71). A desire to be global and to be a successful competitive participant in the international arena, reach potential clients overseas and access a new market are wide spread features of potential FDI. It is also important to note that once export of goods or services produced becomes critically increased then it is more efficient and cost effective to make FDI. 6. As political system change, economic system follows. Statement explanation. A change of political system is a natural process happening in every country. A constantly changing nature of mankind is explained by mankind development and thus countries’ development. When certain political processes take place, then internal income of the country, wealth and occupation of people is gradually changing. Economic development exerts influence on income equality. At this point linearity theory may be applied. In accordance with this theory economic development is a direct way to urbanization leading to communication and higher level of education and finally, to Democracy. Thus we can see a perfect interdependence between political and economic systems. 7. Privatization benefits Privatization is a kind of structural reform occurring in both developed and developing countries. The main goal of privatization is to reach more profound microeconomic efficiency and foster economic growth (Kline, 2005, p. 77). Abundance of inefficient

Mathematics Teaching In Early Years Settings Education Essay

Mathematics Teaching In Early Years Settings Education Essay Learning is a fundamental process, and one believed to be life long. Subsequently, education allows for learning to be progressed through the acquisition of knowledge and development of reasoning and judgment. Providing children with the necessary attributes to both read and communicate fluently, as well as count and calculate confidently are of significant importance, hence, to review progression, the Government insist on the analysis of frameworks. In July 2007, the Secretary of State asked Sir Peter Williams to review the teaching of Mathematics within Early Years and Primary schools. Through extensive research, Williams (2008) made ten final recommendations about how to improve the teaching of mathematics, addressing its distinctive requirements. Williams (2008) expressed that, The high standards achieved in mathematics in recent years can be maintained and improved further only by addressing the unique needs of this subject, a discipline which is not always embraced with enthusiasm and confidence. (ibid 2008 p.1) The recommendations highlighted that the improvement for the quality of mathematical teaching should not solely rely upon teachers and practitioners. Parents and families are of significant importance, particularly where an intervention programme is required. In addition, Head Teachers and members of Senior Management play an active role in ensuring that every child receives the best mathematical education. The accomplishment of this is very much dependent upon children having an unassailable start to their educational journey; hence, Williams (2008) proposed three specific recommendations for early years. Recommendation six highlighted that there should be a continuing increase in the proportion of graduate practitioners in early years settings: The review agrees that the presence of someone with Qualified Teacher Status, with early years specialism, working with children wherever possible is vital. (Williams 2008 p.38) This recommendation could signify considerable changes for early years education, encouragingly echoing a key aim outlined within The Childrens Plan; Building brighter futures (2007), that there shall be a graduate early years professional in every full day care setting in England by 2015. Furthermore, practitioners would require a firm understanding of mathematical pedagogy, expressing distinctive features that would support high quality learning. Children require an array of opportunities to learn in an environment that is stimulatingly rich and appropriate to their development, achieved through positive enthusiasm and direct teaching of mathematical skills and knowledge. There is significant value for the understanding of how the range of childrens educational experiences, during their first five years, can have profound implications on their mathematical learning. Consequently, Williams (2008) expressed there was a broad consensus on the importance for the need of uniformly good early years environments providing quality teaching. Central to that are the teachers and practitioners creating enabling environments and positive relationships, adopting effective pedagogy throughout all aspects of learning. Williams (2008) explored how childrens experiences with mathematics should be built upon play and spontaneous learning, fostering their natural interest in numeracy and problem solving. Achieving this requires the understandin g of how the use of childrens own graphical explorations, though mark making, is highly significant and of great value to practitioners. Williams (2008) however discovered that support for mathematical mark making was very rare, needing specific focus, as allowing children to develop their ability to extend and organise their thinking was defined as highly important. Williams (2008) commissioned recommendation four to highlight the significance of early years practitioners having specific mathematical mark making materials to support their professional development. Previous research into childrens mathematical graphics lays further emphasis on the value of these materials as Worthington (2008) expressed: The emphasis with childrens mathematical graphics is very much on children making sense of the written language of mathematics and effective pedagogy to support their thinking. (Ibid 2008) Worthington (2008) highlighted the importance of understanding how mathematical mark making could have dramatic effects on childrens learning, as allowing children to adopt their own form of mark making to symbols, will in future years, encourage them to combine their representations with that of standard mathematical symbols. As children progress through the primary curriculum, it is clear how there is a logical pattern to teaching and learning. Williams (2008) stressed the significance of children receiving excellent teaching and a high quality curriculum: each relying on the other for successful learning. Furthermore, within the mathematic curriculum, Williams (2008) believed there to be a well-structured programme that took into account how to develop most childrens learning. From this, Williams (2008) proposed, under recommendation nine, that the primary national curriculum for Mathematics should continue as currently prescribed, subject to any changes proposed by Sir Jim Rose. On the other hand, however, Williams (2008) identified how the transition from Early Years to Key Stage one can lead to discontinuity in learning through attempts to match early learning goals to the National Curriculum. A preceding review to Williams (2008) report expressed the importance of smooth transitions, conveying furth er certainty of its significance. The Childrens Plan: Building brighter futures (2007) expressed, Smoothing these transitions will benefit all children and allow each child to progress at a speed that best suits their needs while they are adjusting to their new environments. (ibid 2007 p.63) The effects of this transition on childrens mathematical learning may generate significant problems, leading to a loss in interest, omitting the opportunity to develop good attitudes towards the subject. Ensuring that a positive approach towards mathematics is a predominant feature, Williams (2008) outlined his key recommendation; a mathematical specialist in ever school. Engaging with a deep mathematical knowledge, the specialist would be central to effective teaching and learning, aiding quality instruction and intervention. The specialist would encompass attributes and characteristics that could advance mathematical learning, developing enthusiasm across the school. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) would incorporate a specifically designed programme, facilitating critical reflection on how to implement learning practices, and how to interrelate all strands of the mathematical curriculum. Williams (2008) also expressed how such programmes of studies could build upon complimentary Government aspirations, leading to the introduction of teaching becoming a Masters level profession. Through greater access to valuable recent research into mathematics, the specialist would offe r head teachers an array of opportunities to circulate effective practices and models of learning. Consequently, the mathematical specialist would become an invaluable constituent to primary schools; however, Williams (2008) needed to address the necessary training and professional development concerns. Williams (2008) proposed that mathematical specialists would receive an additional five days for Continuing Professional Development; however, the logistics could raise considerable barriers, and therefore still require further analysis. Effective learning through curriculum and pedagogy are central to both classroom practice and teachers knowledge and beliefs. Predominantly, pedagogy should be learner centred; embracing models of learning that encompass a collection of technique and effective assessment. Implementing this is very much dependent upon the teacher and through Williams (2008) recommendation, in future years includes the mathematical specialist. Assessment for Learning (AFL) is a tool used within schools to establish the progress of all children, aiming to improve individual attainment levels. Allowing children time to question, as well as answer and try out their own strategies, ensure that assessment becomes a collaborative procedure, offering teachers an array of opportunities to develop childrens learning. From reviewing evidence of mathematical achievement, Williams (2008) concluded that it appeared there was no single cause for under attainment, consequently leading to no single answer. One solutio n adopted by the Government is intervention programmes, aimed at children who are failing to achieve the basics. Intervention occurs across the curriculum, through, as the National Strategy describes, the three waves model. Wave one outlines the necessity for quality, inclusive teaching, targeted at all pupils needs. Wave two furthers this with group intervention, designed to accelerate the learning for particular groups of children expected to draw level with their peers. The individualised programme of intervention occurs during wave three, when teaching becomes specifically targeted and personalised. According to Williams (2008), the importance of intervention to the subject of mathematics, is paramount. There is a growing body of international evidence showing that a carefully considered response to these problems of under attainment in mathematics can restore young learners to a successful pathway for future study in the subject. (Williams 2008 p.45) Throughout his review, Williams (2008) put forward a strong recommendation for early intervention and under recommendation eight, outlined that children with serious difficulties should receive daily intensive one to one teaching from a qualified teacher. Previous research into early intervention can lay further significance on Williams (2008) recommendation. Dowker (2004) set out general principles outlining that intervention should ideally take place during the early stages of a childs education, aiming to reduce the risk of negative attitudes. Subsequently, Williams (2008) review sincerely welcomed the new initiative Every Child Counts (2008), a coalition partnership, between the Government and the charity Every Child a Chance, aiming to engage in the search for solutions for mathematical under attainment. The Every Child Counts (2008) programme is aimed at the lowest attaining Year two children, imposed at this stage, as it is believed to have maximum impact at a timely and prac tical period of a childs learning. In January 2009, Ofsted released the publication, An evaluation of National Strategy intervention programmes, incorporating a small-scale survey concluding on the impact of intervention. Ofsted explained that: Intervention is most successful when confident leaders and well organised teachers select from the National Strategy programmes and develop a curriculum that meets the needs of pupils and the circumstances of the school. (Ofsted 2009 p.18) Building upon this, Williams (2008) outlined that intervention should be led by a qualified teacher, generally involving one child, and incorporate the appropriate use of multi sensory resources and diagnostic assessment. Achieving this lays further emphasis on the importance of having well-trained teachers, with support from mathematics specialists. Leading an intervention programme would require significant support from head teachers and senior management, but additional to this the child must be committed, supported comprehensively by parents. Although this encouragement and assistance should occur for all children during their educational journey, it has been made evident how parents can further aid a child with mathematical difficulties. Williams (2008) identified that parents often miss the opportunity to help their child, as they are not aware of current mathematical teaching methods. Addressing this, teachers and practitioners should encourage parents, bringing them up to date on how they can support. Furthermore, Williams (2008) expressed the imperative need for teachers to recognise the wealth of mathematical knowledge a child learns outside of school, therefore, aim to encourage parents to use this out of school knowledge to participate in mathematical activities together. Williams (2008) review of mathematics could implicate significant changes within the structure of primary education and training of new and established teachers. Having an extensive knowledge of how effective interaction and instructive teaching can extend childrens thinking, with particular attention to their use of accurate mathematical language, lays further importance of having highly qualified and skilled teachers. Furthermore, Continuing Professional Development, with predominant reference to mathematics, is essential; with Head Teachers ensuring teachers have many opportunities to progress. With regard to intervention programmes, it is clear how essential training may need implementing, with specific focus on Initial Teacher Training and Continuing Professional Development programmes. As intervention is more widely adopted across primary education, it may become apparent for the review of Initial Teacher Training courses, ensuring that all trainees experience an intervention p rogramme. With regard to my personal teacher training, the Williams (2008) review made it evident how securing curriculum knowledge and effective pedagogy is paramount in aiding children to achieve their potential. Building upon the standards outlined by the Training and Development Agency (2009) it is apparent how knowing and understanding relevant national strategy frameworks can aid with the execution of inclusive teaching, overcoming barriers to learning and assessment. Furthermore, with the proposed national roll out of the Every Child Counts (2008) scheme in 2010 2011, the Williams (2008) report would become of significant value to my teacher training and future career, providing substantial information about the importance of effective mathematical teaching, encompassed with a positive and enthusiastic approach.

In a book written by Goldscheider Essay

Studying the Jewish Future, the author revealed the reasons for the unexpected results, that instead of a vanishing race, the reality is that of a thriving community. And the explanation can be broken down into the following: 1. Conversion – It is surprising to find out that a considerable number of non-Jewish spouse opted to be converted to Judaism. It must be noted though that the said conversion may be formal or informal but true conversion is rather marked by a following community norms and values. 2. Acceptance – the Jewish community is now more open to the idea of intermarriage and this has resulted in a more openness which predictably made it easier for non-Jewish spouse to get exposed to Jewish ways. 3. Deliberate Outreach – the Jewish community and its institutions are forced to reach out to intermarried couples and by doing so encouraged non-Jews to be respect their beliefs and for some a desire to be counted as Jews. Ambivalence There is a dramatic change in perception and outlook that resulted in an improvement in how the Jewish community in general is treating intermarried couples. Still, the Jewish faith would never have reached its current position, a survivor of the Holocaust and many other forms of persecution without creating a defense mechanism that ensured the survival not only of its lineage but also of its beliefs and customs. It is this defense mechanism that made it hard for other to jump on the â€Å"accept the intermarried couples bandwagon† and prevented some to see the possibilities not only in finding a novel way of thriving in a modern society like America but also a novel way of finding new converts. In one extreme, intermarriage is one valid form of proselytizing whose impact is not yet fully measured. But as mentioned earlier, not everyone is convinced that the time has come for the Jews to fully open its house to the Gentiles. Bayme and Rosen provided an example of this ambivalence when they cited the popular Mordecai Kaplan who at one point encouraged intermarriages: Jews must meet all situations that might lead to mixed marriages, not fearfully or grudgingly, but in the spirit of encountering an expected development †¦ With a belief in the integrity and values of his own civilization, the Jewish partner to the marriage cold †¦ make Judaism the civilization of the home†¦ And yet two years later the same person said: Since Jews are a minority and Judaism is exposed to tremendous disintegrative forces from non-Jewish environment †¦ it cannot approve of uncontrolled intermarriage with non-Jews. If however, a non-Jew who desire to marry a Jew, after studying what is involved in being a Jew and what are the principles and practices of Judaism, he should be given every encouragement and should be welcomed into the Jewish community (Kaplan, as qtd. in Bayme & Rosen, 1994, p. 268). Conclusion After thousands of years since God has declared them the â€Å"chosen people† the Jews continue to struggle and to find their place in the world. Every generation is pressured to find ways to pass on what they have received from their ancestors to the next generation of Jews. Each time the baton is passed the more it becomes more difficult to continually display integrity, commitment, and consistency. Just like other ancient religions, Judaism is finding it extremely difficult to solve the dilemma of identity and relevance. The present generation can enforce and strengthen their spiritual identity and dig deep into their past to find that old familiar path that will lead them to their ancestors Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses. But every time they struggle to keep their ancient traditions and beliefs together they risk losing their relevance to a fast evolving world. This is especially true in America; the world’s most advanced and most powerful nation. As a result the new generation of Jews are abandoning ancient traditions and exchanging it with new ideas. But this is just a part of a bigger problem. What they are most concern about is the marriage of Jews to non-Jews or interfaith marriages. As mentioned in the introduction part of this paper, the Jews can directly trace their lineage to an ancient people, the Israelites, children of Jacob. A long time ago, they co-existed with ancient people groups but they are the only fortunate ones to have survived the passage of time. It can even be argued that they are the only surviving, direct descendants of ancient tribes. This made them a special group. A fact that is not lost in the collective psyche of the Jewish people. This ability to survive against all odds does not come without a price. They have developed a sort of defense mechanisms against the â€Å"melting pot† effect of the world. The world is like one giant sponge of conformity, sucking them in to make them conform to popular trends and standards. The Jewish people, for thousands of years were able to resist that pull. They have their strict diet, their festivals, their rituals, and their traditions that must be strictly followed wherever they are. Whether they are in the midst of prison, or in a land filled with racism they have to remember who they are and by doing all these things they have fought back extinction and remained a distinct people group. The Jewish race also has one major secret weapon and it is the implied rule that they should not marry non-Jews. At first glance it is easy to believe that they perpetuate this rule for the sake of practicality. It would be impossible for an outsider to keep up with their way of life unless one has learned of these things since early childhood. But a close look into this code of conduct reveals a religion that is so exacting that it sees intermarriage as a threat to the continuity of this particular group. For thousands of years they had succeeded in maintaining the status quo. Wherever they went they formed a close knit community of fellow believers that find support and strength from one another. The long history of persecution and anti-Semitism forced them to band close together as one family. It is understandable why for a long time outsiders are reluctant to penetrate their strong defenses so that they can get an idea as to what Judaism is all about. Moreover, anti-Semitism is a serious problem that strongly discourages a potential suitor from risking his life for someone that is as enigmatic as a Jewish girl. Everything went fine until after World War II. It seems that the Holocaust has placed the Jews in the limelight and not to discount also the successes of the Holocaust survivors in the field of finance and business that may well have contributed to their fame in the international stage. Another factor is the settling of Jews in America, first coming in droves as refugees and then finally establishing a place they can call home. In the New World the Jewish community was able to thrive in an environment where anti-Semitism is denounced as something belonging to a bygone era. Then an unexpected thing happened. The lessening of anti-Semitism no doubt changed the way Americans see the Jews. In short Jewish men and women became desirable in the eyes of modern day Gentiles. And since they are in the land of the free, the new generation of Jews can find nothing wrong in interfaith marriages. But for the elders, especially communal leaders have a different perspective. They are perhaps remnants of that era where Jews are considered as the persecuted one in Europe and in many parts of the world. It may have been a difficult notion to entertain for these old folks – that a Jew can finally live with a non-Jew and yet retain its identity and continue practicing their faith. They cannot see the gray area, only the black and white shades that says either one is fully committed Jew, focused on his religious duties or none at all. Moreover, the increasing rate of intermarriages was seen as a black-eye for the Jewish community. They interpret it as a growing weakness in the institution that teaches Jewish beliefs and traditions. It was also interpreted as rebellion towards parents and to their way of life. In modern times, there are researchers like Goldscheider who contends that the elders made a fundamental error in judgment. He argues that the reason for the negative assessment of intermarriage is a wrong perspective. He hastens to say that if the elders and the whole Jewish community can see what intermarriage is doing to the community in general then they will be more open to the idea of intermarriage. Firs of all, intermarriages are means for increasing the number of Jews in America. This is because studies have found a significant percentage of non-Jews willing to learn more about the Judaism, willing to let their children grow up as followers of Judaism and in many instances non-Jews are getting converted formally or informally. Goldscheider warns though that in order for this new trend to be a source of joy for communal leaders and elders they need to have a paradigm shift. They no longer have to limit their idea â€Å"Jewishness† on the basis of birth but they must be willing to accept that a true Jew is not someone with a direct lineage to the ancient people found in the Jewish Bible, but they are people who are in love with Jewish customs and tradition and that they are eager to lead their children in following their lifestyle. For Goldscheider this is what 21st century needs and for him this is what intermarriage brings to the Jewish experience. Works Cited Bayme, Steven. Jewish Arguments and Counterarguments. New Jersey: KTAV Publishing House, 2002. Bayme, Steven & Gladys Rosen. The Jewish Family and Jewish Contiunity. New Jersey: KTAV Publishing, 1994. Goldscheider, Calvin. Are American Jews Vanishing Again? Ed. Put Name of Editor of the book article was taken from. Place of Publication: Publisher, year of publication. _____________________. Studying the Jewish Future. Seattle, WA: University of Washington Press, 2004. Jewish Bible. Retrieved 13 November 2007 from http://www. breslov. com/bible/Joshua3. htm#3 Shapiro, Edward. A Time for Healing: American Jewry Since World War II. MA: The John Hopkins Press, 1992. Sklare, Marshall. Understanding American Jewry. New Jersey: Transaction Books, 1982.

Farewell Speech for a Tenth Standard Student

Esteemed Director Sir, Principal, Teacher’s &; my junior Colleagues. Good Morning to all of you. Now it’s time for the moment in all our lives, the moment when we leave our childhood behind and step into the world to forge our own paths in life. Obviously School days are the most memorable days to everyone. I want to share my feelings and attachment with this school with all of you. Firstly, I am thankful to my parents to join me in such a wonderful School where I got the best mentors and amazing group of friends. With the collective effort of all the staff we are all shaping our future and getting ready to play our role in the society.Your kindness and caring for students is the reason that today I am willing to take any risk with smile and courage in my future journey of life. I especially want to thank all of you for the tender care and affection shown towards us. In last .. (time you spent in the school).. Years my teachers taught me several things. Thank you teache rs, for all that you have taught me – lessons that extended well beyond the four walls of a classroom, for providing me with myriad opportunities for all round development and values in life.Mere saying thanks to the teachers is not enough to express my gratitude. I promise that I will strive to be a successful citizen, so that all my teachers can proudly say that I am the product of the .. (school’s name).. team. Thank you, friends – for all the fun, the hilarious laughter and unforgettable moments shared with me. I wish my friends happy adventures, fantastic new friendships, amazing experiences in the future journey of a lifetime. All my teachers took me under their wings and I was always taken care of. Farewell to Manzanar, written by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston, Japanese American, and James D. HoustonThis is the tough day for me to say my final goodbyes to all of you. Although we may be separated by time and distance nothing will diminish the important role of every one played in my life spent here. In future, a short walk down in to memory lane of my school days will definitely strengthen me to face any situation. All teachers &; friends kindly pardon me if anybody got hurt with my behavior during my tenure in the school. And continue to pour love and blessings towards me. Thank you and goodbye.

Dan Marino Essays - Dan Marino, Pro Football Hall Of Fame Inductees

Dan Marino Essays - Dan Marino, Pro Football Hall Of Fame Inductees Dan Marino Dan Marino of the Miami Dolphins has had a very successful career on and off of the foot ball field. Dan Marino has led a very interesting life throughout his existence on this planet. Whether it is playing football to appearing in commercials or movies to leading a normal everyday life with his family. Dan Marino has grown to being a role model foe millions and millions of children and adults to look up to. Dan Marino has had a very successful career that has had its ups and downs, but he still manages to be a good all around guy and more importantly a good sport. Dan Marino was born in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, and he lived with his parents and two younger sisters. Dan came from the same area as Joe Montana, Jim Kelly, and Joe Namath. As a child Dan and his friends were always playing either football or baseball. In both of the two sports, Dan's father had coached. He was the one who had taught Dan how to hold the ball next to his ear and throw without winding up. Dan's father played a huge role in his life, he taught Dan to try hard and have fun while playing whatever sport he chose. In elementary school Dan thought too much about becoming a professional athlete and not enough about his schoolwork. As a child Dan wanted to go to Central Catholic High School because it had great sports teams. But because eof Dan's poor performance in the classroom, he had been warned by a teacher that if he continued to produce bad grades that he would not be able to get into Central Catholic High School. So Dan's father sat him down and had a talk with him about the fact that if he didn?t start doing well in school that he would have no choice but to take him off of all athletic activities. This little talk that Dan and his father had was more importantly a wake up call that had inspired to do better in school and stay on his sporting teams. When it became time for Dan to take the test to determine if he would get into Central Catholic High School, he was completely ready and passed the test barely but he still managed to get in which was a big accomplishment. While Dan was atten ding Central Catholic High School he managed to become outstanding scholastic athlete in the city as a junior, and was All-American at the quarterbacking position. In High School Dan was excelling in athletics. While playing baseball Dan batted well over .400 . After graduating high school, Dan was drafted in the seventh round by the Kansas City Royals but Dan did not have his eyes set on turning pro yet, well at least not as a baseball player. Dan wanted to attend college and try to fulfill his career as a football player at the University of Pittsburgh. Dan had several colleges such as Michigan State, Clemson, UCLA, and ArizoDan Marino of the Miami Dolphins has had a very successful career on and off of the foot ball field. Dan Marino has led a very interesting life throughout his existence on this planet. Whether it is playing football to appearing in commercials or movies to leading a normal everyday life with his family. Dan Marino has grown to being a role model foe millions and millions of children and adults to look up to. Dan Marino has had a very successful career that has had its ups and downs, but he still manages to be a good all a round guy and more importantly a good sport. Dan Marino was born in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, and he lived with his parents and two younger sisters. Dan came from the same area as Joe Montana, Jim Kelly, and Joe Namath. As a child Dan and his friends were always playing either football or baseball. In both of the two sports, Dan's father had coached. He was the one who had taught Dan how to hold the ball next to his ear and throw without winding up. Dan's father played a huge role in his life, he taught Dan to try hard

Nature, Character, Contrast and Comparison Essays

Nature, Character, Contrast and Comparison Essays Nature, Character, Contrast and Comparison Essay Nature, Character, Contrast and Comparison Essay The nature, character, contrast and comparison between the colonies in Jamestown in Virginia, the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Plymouth in Massachusetts, and the establishment of Maryland were all short on supplies and each were mainly focused on surviving in the New World. All the colonies had their own separate goals and desires, but all were very different in the ways in which they set out to establish the needs and laws for their region. The one major factor in the organizing of Virginia is when they lost Captain John Smith and went through the period called the â€Å"Starving Time†, which was a horrible time for all. The colonies were all trying to get settled and organized as much as possible with their own challenges and circumstances in which they faced. Virginia settlers were struck with sickness and disease which encountered most of the people in Virginia. There were no laws and people in this region were struggling very badly, they started setting out to define new laws. They became very religion over time and established laws around their Christian faith and ideas. Massachusetts settlers like the Puritans’ led by John Winthrop were very organized and they had a great leader around them. They did not face the same issues that the other colonies had to face because they were very prepared and organized. The Province of Maryland focused on trade and commodities that could be obtained. They looked to trade those commodities to the English and other geographical locations to make a profit. The basic nature and character of the colonies was to establish common grounds and rules for each region as well as gather commodities for their livelihoods to increase trading opportunities. Massachusetts and Virginia were a like and wanted to have a God loving community and share the gospel. The colony of Maryland was set out from the get go to gain trade commodities. (word count: 315)

The Value and Contribution of the role of Selling, to the Strategic Essay

The Value and Contribution of the role of Selling, to the Strategic Development of a Company - Essay Example Introduction Zara is a flagship chain store owned of Inditex Group that owns other brands such as Pull and Bear, Bershka and Stradivarius. The first Zara store was opened in 1975 and featured low priced high end products that were mainly sold to women, children and men (Zara 2012). Zara business model aims at contributing to sustainable development of the society. Zara stores aim at saving energy, ensuring less waste and creating an environmentally aware team. Zara products are made with organic cotton, ecological fabrics and PVC-free footwear (Zara 2012). The empowered retail managers ensure customers are kept informed of the new offerings through word-of-mouth since the stores are regularly replenished with new and innovative products. Almost all Zara stores are company owned, and the rest are franchises thus customers entering the stores in any city experience a standardised shopping environment that involves modern, spacious and well-lit stores that are walled with mirrors. Unlik e other clothing stores that spend much of the profits on advertising, Zara spends less than five percent of the sales revenues on advertising (Proctor 2000). Zara’s marketing and selling strategies focuses on product variety, the location of the store and speed of market penetration. Zara replenishes its stores with new items more frequently than any other clothing chain store in the world. Zara has implemented loyalty programs to create a link with the customers and ensure good working relationships with past customers (Ferrell and Hartline 2011). Zara relies on location of the store rather mass marketing in attracting customers and always produces few and scarce fashionable clothes that will have a short lead time in the stores (Proctor 2000). Some factors that have contributed to the success of Zara’s selling strategy include extensive market research that ensures products meet the clients’ needs and relationship selling (Proctor 2000). Zara also offers favo rable prices and after sale services that ensure customer complaints are fully addressed. Additionally, the selling strategy ensures that the stores exemplify a high class and cool shopping atmosphere that is associated with Zara’s products (Kumar 2010). Zara marketing strategy is aimed at increasing the level of concentration and internalization of the brands (Proctor 2000). Some selling trends that Zara has utilized include tele-shopping and e-marketing. The main target market for the products includes the individuals aged between 18 to 40 years and those working in the large cities such as Madrid and London. The consumers sought benefits include the interest to appear trendy and enjoy shopping in a stylish environment (Zara 2012). According to PESTLE analysis, Zara should be conversant with the trading policies while importing the products to the numerous countries. However, numerous changes in taxation policies, exchange rates and recent economic slowdown have impacted ne gatively on the sales of the company. The social environment is positive for Zara since the global population has increased thus creating additional market that is fashion aware and educated. The technological environment has allowed Zara to utilize online shopping carts, bar coding and technology aided designs thus leading to more customer satisfaction and convenience. Zara has also responded well to the ecological environme

Good and Evil - An analysis of the characters in Schiller's 'Die Essay

Good and Evil - An analysis of the characters in Schiller's 'Die Ruber' and Lessing's 'Emilia Galotti - Essay Example The subject of good and evil has been covered extensively by the world of theatre and literature where several eminent and noble minds have contributed immensely to the discussion and review of the issue. Several notable productions such as ‘Jackyll and Hyde’ and the Apollo Victoria Theatre in Australia have made an attempt to highlight a comparison between these two virtues. However, the subject has been a case for discussion since times immemorial and has become the subject of intense scrutiny in theatrical works over the past 300 years. German theatrical works have played an immense role in this area by helping produce some of the most magnificent works that deals with the good and the evil things in this world. Among them, the plays ‘Emilia Galotti’ by Lessing and ‘Die Rauber’ by Schiller have stood out in terms of their intricacy in projecting the subject that has worked wonders over the years in highlighting the issue. The current paper is an attempt at highlighting the same by discussing the subject in several perspectives of good and evil wherein each shall be discussed in separate sections. Lessing has always been one of the most famous playwrights in contemporary German literature. His 1771 play titled ‘Emilia Galotti’ has been the subject of intense scholarly debates for several centuries. There have been several interpretations of Emilia Galotti, which fall into three basic categories namely the traditional, scholarly association with the Roman legend of Virginia and as a father’s dilemma over securing and convincing the innocence of his daughter. There has been some opinion among a few scholars who view the play as a mere testimony of the struggle of the bourgeoisie (middle classes) against emancipation. However, the play is further very interesting to examine given that it provides a deeper insight