Muslims in America

Population So far, there are no official, accurate figures concerning the actual number of Muslims living in the United States. Estimates have ranged from as low as less than three million to as high as over six million. This is understandable because the statistics being released by the census bureau do not include religion as a category. As far as the census figures are concerned, therefore, Muslims could have been counted as Asians, Arabs, Africans, or even Europeans (Mujahid). Independent observers believe that the figures being released to media depend on the partiality of the source. For instance, David Harris, executive director of the American Jewish Committee, claimed that the number of Muslims living in the United States as of 2001 did not exceed 2.8 million – a figure which was way below the estimates submitted by several researchers. This statement was immediately contradicted by Ibrahim Hooper. Speaking on behalf of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Hooper argued that the report which was generated by a review commissioned by the American Jewish Committee was a â€Å"desperate attempt to discount the role of American Muslims.† The debate appears inconclusive since the figures released by Harris and the American Jewish Committee might just prove inaccurate if one considers that the review was done in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks – which everybody knows precipitated an anti-Muslim sentiment in the country (Zoll). However, the exact number of the Muslim-American population is not that significant if one’s purpose is to fully understand the Muslim-American community and examine how it has assimilated and contributed to the economic and social development of the United States. They could be over six million or less than two million – what is more important is the quality and the extent of their contribution as well as their desire to exert a sustained effort aimed at increasing the same. Considering the effects of the 9/11 attacks, the commitment of Muslim-Americans to peace and development in the country acquires greater significance. Profile Almost 80% of Muslim Americans are between 16 and 65 years of age. They belong to households with an average membership of five, suggesting a family-oriented culture. Majority of these families live in cosmopolitan centers: California has the highest concentration of Muslim-Americans with 20%, followed by the state of New York (16%), Illinois (8%), and 4% each for the states of Indiana and New Jersey. Michigan, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia each account for three percent of all Muslim-Americans. The fact that they are found in multiethnic and multicultural communities indicates that Muslim-Americans do not have difficulty in living with people with different backgrounds and persuasions. Not all Muslim-Americans are Arabs. In fact, only a minority of about 12% are of Arab descent while 24% originated from South Asia, the majority (42%) being African-Americans. Sixty-seven percent of all Muslim-Americans are immigrants and/or descendants of immigrants. In addition, around 30% of all African-American inmates in the country’s penitentiaries are either Muslims or Muslim converts (Mujahid). Most of the Muslim-Americans are professionals with only a very few venturing in private business. However, the professionals are versatile, making their contributions from different fields. Many of them are serving under the United States Armed Forces. As a matter of fact, the number of Muslim-American servicemen exceeds one percent of the entire population of the armed services of the country. Some – more than 10% – are in the computer and engineering industries, another 8% are employed in the medical field, and some 4% have ventured in the financial field (Mujahid). The Muslim-Americans are not an impoverished people. Although national figures are not currently available, the average income of a Muslim-American household in the state of Illinois was found to be $53,500,.with the Arab Muslims earning the highest average income of $69,000 and the African-American Muslims earning a lower $32,000 a year (Mujahid). In other words, they are good contributors not only to the coffers of the state and federal governments in terms of income taxes but also to private business as far as their purchasing power is concerned, underlying their significant contribution to the overall economy of the country. As a matter of fact, as shown by a study conducted recently by the Detroit-based JWT Advertising, reportedly the biggest advertising company in the country, the purchasing power of the Muslim-American community in the country is estimated at around $170 billion. This is the reason why JWT Advertising is now collaborating with other organizations to assist them in capturing their share of the rather large business of the Muslim-American community. To achieve this objective, the business firms in the Detroit area are now making use of the different aspects of the Muslim culture to win over Muslim customers. In fact, according to the director of trends spotting of JWT, Ann Mack, â€Å"Some marketers – – I am not going to name them specifically – are having Ramadan advertisements,† she says, â€Å"and because they are speaking specifically to these populations, they will appeal, they will resonate and those consumers will tend to gravitate towards these brands† (Elshinnawe). Some companies have been treating this issue seriously. IKEA, a Swedish company engaged in the furniture business even sought the help of the chairman of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce. When consulted, Nasser Baydoun recalled that â€Å"What we were able to do was to teach them how to market to our community.—how does our community get its information, how do they choose which store they go to and how does IKEA create a working staff that is friendly to the community.† Based on this advice, IKEA put together a diversity training program for all its employees, started talking about the needs of Muslims, and required its designers to adapt their product designs to fit the needs and tastes of the Muslim community. All of these changes were aimed specifically at ensnaring the market offered by the Muslim-American community (Elshinnawe). Programs and practices The community takes care of its basic needs. Their religious and educational needs are being served by around 3,000 Islamic centers and mosques scattered all over the country, approximately 500 Islamic Sunday schools, at least 200 Islamic schools and six schools of higher learning. The members of the community are active in spreading the shahadah. In the Illinois area alone, a significant growth was observed. Twenty-five percent of new Muslims in the state came from conversion from other faiths. The Islamic practice of Friday prayers is, however, observed by only about four percent of the community. Observers could not be certain whether this indicates a low religiosity among the Muslims, or whether this is due to the fact that Muslims are not being given a day off from their work to enable them to attend the Friday prayer. As far as tithing is concerned, it is estimated that about $100 million is collected from Muslims every year to go to the coffers of their favored relief organizations for the purpose of helping the less fortunate. Fasting during the month of Ramadan, on the other hand, is practiced by an estimated 47% of the Muslim community (Mujahid). Muslim American Society (MAS) The MAS is a â€Å"charitable, religious, social, cultural, and educational, not-for-profit organization.† It is part of a movement which called on Muslims all over the world to make Islam their â€Å"total way of life.† In the United States, it traces its root to the Muslim Student Asociation (MSA) which was established in 1963 to serve the needs of students and immigrants arriving in the country during the later part the 1950s and the early 1960s. After twenty years, the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) emerged from the MAS. By 1992, the Muslim American Society was organized to provide better outreach programs and serve the increasing needs of Muslim-Americans. Its mission statement is: â€Å"To build an integrated empowerment process for the American Muslim community through civic education, participation, community outreach, and coalition building; to forge positive relationships with other institutions outside of our community, that will ensure and facilitate the protection of civil rights and liberties for American Muslims and all Americans† (Muslim American Society). The MAS, therefore, is the best evidence of the Muslim-Americans’ desire to fully integrate with the American society and do their best in protecting not only the rights of Muslims but Americans in general, particularly against the negative effects of terrorism. As FBI Director Robert S. Mueller said in a briefing held on February 17, 2004: â€Å"†¦at the outset, I should mention that the Muslim American †¦ communities in the United States have contributed a great deal to our success. And on behalf of the FBI, I would like to thank these communities for their assistance and for their ongoing commitment to preventing acts of terrorism.† Works Cited Elshinnawi, Mohamed. â€Å"US Companies Aim Advertising at Muslim Americans.† Voice of America. 19 September 2007. 30 November 2007. Mujahid, Abdul Malik. (2007). â€Å"Muslims in America: Profile 2001.† 2007. 30 November, 2007 Muslim American Society. 30 November 2007 Zoll, Rachel. â€Å"Group: Muslim Population Overstated.† Number of Muslims in the United States. 22 October 2001. 30 November 2007.            

Defining Interpersonal Communication Essay

When asked to distinguish interpersonal communication from communication in general, many people say that interpersonal communication involves fewer people, often just two. according to this definition, an exchange between a homeowner and plumber would be interpersonal, but a conversation involving parents and four children would not. although interpersonal communication often involves only two or three people, this isn’t a useful definition. Perhaps you are thinking that intimate contexts define interpersonal communication. using this standard, we would say that a couple on a first date in a romantic restaurant engages in more interpersonal communication than an established couple in a shopping mall. The best way to define interpersonal communication is by focusing on what happens between people, not where they are or how many present.In simple way, we can say that interpersonal communication is a distinct type of interaction between people. Barriers to Effective Interpersonal Communication One way of looking at communication barriers is to divide them into internal and external barriers, or environmental barriers. It is important to be aware of all the possible barriers to communication, and to consider how these can be overcome, so that effective interaction can take place either in business or at a personal level. Psychological Barriers Psychological barriers may include shyness or embarrassment. Sometimes, a person may present herself as being abrupt or difficult when she may actually be nervous. One person’s stereotyped views of the other party or the group he belongs to may also provide a barrier to communication. If she is already prejudiced before meeting him, this will cause a barrier. Cultural Barriers Acceptable styles of communication vary between cultures. In some societies physical gestures are extravagant, and touch is more acceptable. In these societies, it is generally acceptable to hug and touch a person’s arm when you are speaking to him. In other societies this would be unacceptable. Some religions have a taboo about members of the opposite sex communicating and particularly touching. Casual hugging and kissing would be completely unacceptable. Language Barriers A communication barrier may be present because the parties do not share a common language. Interpreters and translators may be used to good effect in these circumstances. If a person is deaf or visually impaired, this presents an obvious barrier that needs to be addressed prior to the meeting. Speech impediments or dysphasia as a result of a stroke or other brain problem can present a barrier. The use of jargon and over-complicated language creates barriers to communication. Environmental Barriers Environmental barriers to communication can include noise and lack of privacy. An environment which is too hot or cold will not be conducive to effective communication. Some places of business are busy with many distractions, such as constantly ringing telephones and other messaging systems. Three internal barriers that could affect your communication * Negative emotions * Low self-esteem * Lack of commitment The negative emotions from previous experiences, if not released, continue to hunt us and get expressed when we expect less. They are triggered by similar situations that show up in our life, without consciously recognizing them. Did it occur to you to get upset or raise the tone of your voice for something that†¦ was not really a big deal? It could be one of those situations, that triggered past emotions not released. As long as you don’t identify and release them, they could affect your interpersonal communication since others won’t really know from where your overreaction is coming from. Low self-esteem takes a huge toll on interpersonal communication. Not having the courage to express your ideas (because you believe they’re not worthy), could send a different message than the one you want to project. It might mislead other people, leaving them to believe whatever they want (which might be different from what you want). Low self-esteem could also show up as lack of confidence, or by not taking responsibility for your own actions. Do I have to mention the impact on the interpersonal communication?! Who would like to spend more time or collaborate with someone who doesn’t take responsibility for his actions? Or who does not trust himself, and is waiting for help all the time? Lack of commitment comes usually from not knowing what you want, or from not having the courage to take the right actions. Lack of commitment plays a huge role in interpersonal communication, since its so easy to spot it†¦ and no one likes it. How to communicate effectively with someone who is not committed, who doesn’t pay attention or simply ignores you? If you found yourself at least once in the situations listed above, when do you think it’s the best time to work on your own issues: when a similar situation occurs? or in advance, so you are better prepared to communicate more effectively in any situation?

Week 4 & 5 Discussion Assignments Please send 2 different files Assignment

Week 4 & 5 Discussion Assignments Please send 2 different files - Assignment Example By triangulating both sets of results, I hope to be able to arrive at some solidly based conclusions that are confirmed by both current research and by working professionals currently employed in government agencies. In designing this particular study, I realise that is important that my research be credible. I want readers to be able to trust that outcomes that I arrive at, which means that I am now taking the time to ensure my methodology is based on sound research principles, that the research I incorporable is both scholarly and reputable, and that the eventual participants in the survey portion of the study are truly qualified to do so. In addition, as I design the qualitative study, I will be making sure the research is transparent, reliable, and useful to both the academic and business community. To this point in my dissertation journey, I have taken all three types to research methodology courses. Given the fact that my particular research emphasis is qualitative in nature, I am please to note that I received high marks in the qualitative design course. While I did acceptably in the mixed-methods and quantitative design courses, I feel my research gifts lie a bit more in the exploratory nature that the qualitative approach offers. My desire to seek out current perception in the hiring and promotion process and determine what, if anything, should be done to increase the transparency in this area in public agencies, with a particular emphasis on the Social Security Administration. Having the ability to locate qualified individuals to provide a professional opinion on this important topic, coupled with my own interest in examining current research in this area, enables me to develop a solid qualitative framework. Moving forward, I do not feel that I need to take any further co urse in research study design, as quantitative data

The Economy of Japan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Economy of Japan - Essay Example Exchange rate in a floating regime are determined by the supply and demand for a that currency, if the demand for a currency is high then the value of the currency will appreciate against other currency, if demand for a currency falls and speculators sell the currency then the value of the currency depreciates against other currencies. This paper analyses the factors that have contributed to the fluctuations in the Japanese yen exchange rate, this factors include inflation, interest rates, unemployment levels, monetary policies, fiscal policies and trade balances and other factors. Inflation is the rise in prices of products in the entire economy for a long period of time, inflation is caused by increased money supply or even an increase in the level of prices of inputs such as crude oil prices, there exist two types of inflation as Keynes depicted, the cost push and demand pull inflation, in Japan the level of inflation has risen steadily and this means that the local currency namely the Yen has appreciated over time against the other major currencies. Governments will always try to balance inflation and unemployment levels, according to the Philips curve the... Unemployment can be defined as the number of people who are jobless in an economy it is calculated by dividing the number of people who are unemployed with the number of people who are termed as the work force in an economy it may also refer to a condition in which an economy has idle resources that are not being utilized. Today japans unemployment levels have declined to 4.0% since May this year, the highest recorded level of unemployment in Japan from 1953 because this is when the economy initiated records was 4.8%, unemployment can be reduced through the use of fiscal and monetary policy, unemployment has slightly gone down in Japan, this decline is as a result of increasing interest rates, when interest rates increase the cost of borrowing capital rises and therefore less investment will occur in the economy and this will result into a decline in the employment rates. Therefore the decline in unemployment means that the exchange rate will appreciate. Interest rates: Interest rates are referred to as the cost of borrowed funds, a rise or drop in interest rates will affect the exchange rate of a countries currency, the interest rates are expected to rise according to the Japanese, when interest rates increase then the currency will appreciate, however if low interest rates exist in a country its currency will devalue. Today interest rates are rising and therefore the value of the yen is appreciating against the other major currencies, this is the reason why the Japanese yen has appreciated against the US dollar for the past two months as a result of rising interest rates. Trade balance: Trade balances occur when the level of exports do not balance with the value of imports, when there is a positive balance of trade whereby exports exceed imports then

Free trade or protectionism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 10000 words

Free trade or protectionism - Essay Example With the current world moving more and more towards capitalism, even the so called socialist countries like China have adopted free trade practices in recent times. However, no system is perfect and has its own pitfalls. Thus, protectionist measures have to be taken to balance the threats posed by negative fallouts of free trade. It is analogous to an institution encouraging creativity and enterprise by delegating authority and responsibility but ensuring accountability as well through certain disciplinary arrangements. Thus there is a need to identify a current world trading system that is the most appropriate and find a balanced view from the ongoing debate between Free trade and protectionism. As a means to achieve peace and prosperity in the world, the concept of free trade has been the most internationally discussed and acted upon topic and area of research. The topic is relevant not just academically, but economically and politically as well. Both views to and for free trade have found some or the other form of hypothetical or empirical basis. Besides being intellectually stimulating, the topic finds itself high in relevance in international as well as domestic affairs. Thus there exists sufficient, academic, moral and ethical motivation to pursue research on the topic. To find sufficient basis for the relevance of the ongoing nature of the debate between free trade and protectionism based on the hypotheses that debate between free trade and protectionism is essentially of an ongoing nature and will continue to be so, since the world socio-economic and political arrangements are becoming increasingly dynamic and keep changing at an increasingly faster pace. To examine the relationship between various international and domestic factors that shape up the direction in which the free trade policy of a nation or group of nations moves, based on the premise that in order to understand the nature

Canadian Training Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Canadian Training Systems - Essay Example h programs in the long run can be neglected in no respect and neither can the positive outcomes of training on the productivity and success of various other establishments in the market be kept unseen. I personally do believe that a meager 0.25% increment on payrolls of employees during training is inadequate and dissatisfactory, so as to keep them going and making them believe in their capabilities and the importance of what they learn during the training process. A 1% increment will to some extent, solve some if not all of the problems that these valuable gems of our organizational family face in their day to day lives. I have full confidence in the project and hope that it will bring success and fame, leading us to prosperity. returns to training investments in workplaces. The benefits from such investments in Germany and Japan have been remarkable and have encouraged other countries to follow suit. Workplace training since long has been a black box in terms of our human resource management system. The AET (adult education and training) and IAC (industrial assessment center) surveys carried out in most industries all over the country; reveal the importance and requirement of employee as well as employer training. Training can be categorized into formal and informal. The WTS (workplace training surveys) say that training in 75% of all establishments all over Canada is informal. The type of training that includes proper vision, pre-defined objectives, a structural format and a defined curriculum may be defined as the formal dimension of training. Informal training may include monitoring relationships, experimental learning and sharing knowledge among employees. These methods could be highly flexible, versatile and effective. However, with these, our statistical profile of training and its efficiency does still remain mostly incomplete. Training, more specifically the formal version, takes place in larger establishments and organizations rather than the smaller

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in the Argumentative Offense Essay

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in the Argumentative Offense - Essay Example It will also explain why the court’s judgment was wrong, and then conclude that it is not right to prosecute the people suffering from this disorder, but instead, allow them to get medical attention. The Canadian court argument that Trott, the defendant, is guilty of the offense of slaying Jessica Russell is invalid. This is because; the defendant has been afflicted by a mental disorder, Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome. This disorder has been medically proved to have several traits among them â€Å"retardation in growth, microcephaly short palpebral fissures, and poorly developed philtrum, damage to the central nervous system, resulting in neurological disorders, developmental delays, behavioral dysfunction and learning disabilities† (Larry & Ella). We all know how this can have drastic effects on the victim’s behavior since he cannot think right. I will therefore argue for the view that, the Defendant actions were due to his healthy condition, and it is with no doubt t hat since he cannot think decently, he did not, at the time of committing the crime, know what he was actually doing. Philosophically, we all know that pressing charges to a person with unsound mind is unjust, and for that reason, fair proceedings should be followed in order to deal with such matters similar the one at hand. My subsequent argument is that, I believe the offender’s plea of guiltiness should be highly put on consideration. This is because; he is not to blame for a condition that is leading him to commit the crimes. If at all there is any one to put the blame on, is the mother, who ignored the fact that taking alcohol in time of pregnancy could cause irreversible disorders to the child. We all understand that this condition of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is an avoidable situation, but, if only expectant women can be disciplined and responsible enough to avoid taking alcoholic drinks at the time of their pregnancy. Given this argument, by pressing charges to the offen der, he pays for the mistake that was done by his mother, an act that is against the law. Hence, I believe that we should be well informed and be prepared to deal with criminal cases relating to individuals suffering from mental disorder, like in this case of Trott, rather than unjustly taking legal actions against them (Larry & Ella). In addition, I strongly disagree with the accused lawyer, Howard Smith, and how he gave up following the defendant’s pronouncement to plead being on the wrong side of the law. The lawyer thought that since the client was suffering from mental disorder, there is nothing that can be done about the condition (Larry & Ella). At first peek, this is a very alluring consideration. However, the lawyer’s assumption is faulty, for the reason that, the offender’s condition is just but one of the uncountable disorder cases that we have in the community. Therefore, the philosopher’s resigning act on condition that the defendant is suffe ring from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is not right. This case needs special medical care, rather than assuming that there is nothing to be done about it. I believe that for justice to prevail, we should put the lawbreaker on probation and send him to a proper rehabilitation centre for medication. This is because confining him in the prison is an act that will not improve the

The Impact of the Aging Population on Public Health Care Research Paper

The Impact of the Aging Population on Public Health Care - Research Paper Example Immediately afterward the population of old people with sickness will grow rapidly. The outcome could be a massive allotment of resources to the elderly (Callahan 4). An effective solution to the current issue in the medical system should recognize these changes demography, and it should consider not just individual’s wellbeing but also the stability of the society and the well-being of the public. This research paper discusses the impact of an aging population on all aspects of the medical system, and the potential solutions to this health care issue. The impact of the aging population is more striking in the mental health care sector. The percentage of older people across the globe is continuously rising. For the elderly, mental health problems are a major reason for early mortality and morbidity. Severe depression and dementia are the two most common mental health disorders among the elderly. Specific medical needs of the older people should be recognized and provided by the medical system. Long-term care has been a serious issue brought about by the rapid aging of the population. The most evident impacts of an aging population are to be found in highly developed countries and developing nations like Latin America and China (Rao & Shaji 1). Because of the unparalleled rate of population aging, these countries would have difficulties creating health care and social policies on time to address the medical requirements of the older people. The poor priority given to the medical needs of the aged seems to contribute to the public’s insufficient knowledge about older people’s mental health disorders. Dementia and other neuropsychological problems of the elderly are still unknown issues seldom prioritized by policymakers and medical practitioners. General health services are still centralized or hospital-based and normally require long queues in jam-packed hospitals.

Entrepreneur Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Entrepreneur - Essay Example In addition, it will also describe some of the measures that they as business entrepreneurs can learn, use, introduce and/or implement so that they can improve, manage and mitigate the risks so that they can have long lasting and successful business enterprises. Entrepreneurship is developing new, better and competitive products and/or services by utilizing and maximizing the available resources, so as to meet the never ending and unmet human necessities. It is also described as the ability to direct, control, execute, manage, analyze and take responsibility of the risks (Ramachandran 220). Business entrepreneurship is also one of the most crucial driving forces of economies globally. A business entrepreneur is an individual who sources for opportunities within the economy by analyzing the unmet human needs; he/she takes advantage of the opportunity/ situation at hand; hence, introduces and implements products and/or services that will meet these needs .Moreover, he/she effectively manages the foreseen and unforeseen risks/ challenges involved in the business. Just like any leader, for any business entrepreneur to achieve success, they have to work within the essentials of management which entail; being effective, practice efficiency and also exercise economy management. Effectiveness in meeting the set objectives(s) or goal(s) is achieved by meeting the unmet needs which led to the product. Efficiency is achieved by doing things in the right way; by setting clear guidelines; procedures and processes to be followed in their undertakings. Business entrepreneur has by being economical by minimizing their production costs; they achieve this by using the right but also low cost resources for their products and services while still maintaining the products and/or services standards. A Business entrepreneur has to possess the key management skills these include planning, leadership, organizing and time management skills among others (Ramachandran 210). Most business

How to use a Wood Material in Computer Hard Disc Drives Case Study

How to use a Wood Material in Computer Hard Disc Drives - Case Study Example A hard disk drive is made up of aluminum and a mixture of other non-biodegradable materials. These two components are expensive; hence, it is essential to come up with new, cheap and easily available materials to be used as alternatives in the manufacture of hard disks. This will result in a decline in the cost of producing and installing the hard disks. Wood is a cheap and readily available product that can be used in the manufacture of hard disks. The use of wood materials will allow for the production of affordable hard disk drives, as well as increase the efficiency of hard drives. This report will demonstrate how wood can be used as an alternative material in the manufacture of effective and efficient hard disks. To start with, the report will discuss the main components of a hard drive, the function and choice of material of each part. II. Breakdown of the Main Parts of the Hard Disk and the Function of Each Part The computer hard drive is made up of several components with dif ferent functions, as discussed below. These internal components are very sensitive to dirt and dust and, therefore, hard drives should never be opened (Born, 1997). The following figure shows the major components of a hard disk. Figure 1: Components of a hard drive 1. Cover It is also known as the drive casing and it is rectangular box that holds and covers all the internal components of the hard drive (Born, 1997). ... The speed of rotation increases with the increase in file size and speed of transfer (Braun, 2009). 3. Platters They are located at the centre of the disk and are used to store the computer data. The number of platters in a disk may vary depending on the capacity of the disk. They are made from a non-magnetic material, mostly aluminum alloy, ceramic or glass (Hdd-tool, 2010). Aluminum alloy was initially used but today the desire for higher density has resulted in the use of glass platters. Glass platters are also preferred since they are more stable thermally and offer greater rigidity (Born, 1997). All platters are coated with a layer of a magnetic material and an outer layer of Carbon for protection purposes. The platters are rotated by the spindle at a certain speed resulting in creation of air pressure that is responsible for lifting the read and write heads of the platters. In the event of more than one platter on a single drive, the distance between the platters is usually ver y precise. Data on the drive may be lost forever if the platters gets misaligned (Born, 1997). 4. Read and Write Heads They are also known as heads and they read and write magnetic information to and from the platter. The heads read data more efficiently the more close they are to the platter. However, a close-mounted head may have contact with the platter and this may damage the disk and the information stored in it (IBM, 2000). 5. Actuator Arms They move the read and write heads to the suitable area of the platter. The head of the hard disk is mounted on the actuator arm and it moves it in order to read and write data correctly (Lamberton, 2007). It also helps in keeping the head at an optimal distance from the platter so as to protect the disk as well as preserve its speed and

Forensic Psychology Essay Example for Free

Forensic Psychology Essay 1.How often is the insanity defense used and how successful is it? I would like to answer this question, with the presentation of my opinion and the performed research. It is within my opinion, that the insanity defense is used over excessively and is taking part in almost every defense to any crime. Offenders seem to have the knowledge to the use of this defense and will often provide a plea to guilty by insanity or temporary insanity, within the faith, to receive a reduced sentence. While insanity has to be a proven fact and a psychologist has to conduct a variety of tests to confirm the offender is suffering from a mental incompetence or insanity, most offenders have the ability to mislead or deceive psychologists to receive the evaluation they seek. Such action, if discovered, would actually prove the sanity of such offenders, but in most cases, it cannot be ascertained. The success of such defense is, within my view, very effective. The performed research is revealing a different answer. According to the St. Joseph News Press (2007), it has stated the opposite to my opinion. This article within a study of the national mental health institute claim’s; â€Å"the insanity defense plea is used in less than one (1) percent of criminal cases in the United States and less than a quarter of those pleas are successful†. Retrieved from; St. Joseph News Press (2007). With these opinions and views in combination, one would have to conduct further studies on this subject, to establish the correct answer. Everyone has different sentiments, within the use of the insanity defense and the successfulness of such validation. 2. Identify and discuss the major criticisms of the insanity defense. It is my belive,the major criticism of the insanity defense could be the establishment of prove to the claim of insanity. More often, offenders will try to make use of this defense for the hope of receiving a reduced sentence or the sentence to receive institutional care. According to my research, there are three (3) major criticisms within the insanity defense. The Insanity defense is mentioned as confusing to the psychiatric and legal concept. Furthermore, it is explained that the word â€Å"insane† is more of a legal word, then a medical term, and therefor to prove a person or a criminal insane, one must find the mental condition, of a criminal, severely impaired to the point of losing one’s free will. A psychiatrist may be or may not able to determine such illness, and a jury’s decision solely based on a psychiatrists’ opinion may be grounded on unreliable evidence. Retrieved from; Wests Encyclopedia of American Law, edition 2 (2008). 2. This criticism is on the moral basis and the consequences. This section suggests that the crime is of more importance, then the moral imperatives. It also addresses the way a criminal, who does plea insanity, should be trialed and punished for the crime. It is suggested, that the criminal should be convicted and the mental illness should be taken in consideration at the time of sentencing. If this method would be used by the court, it would allow the judge to determine the length of imprisonment, within a hospital prison, and the defendant would have to provide prove of improvement to the once dangerous behavior. Retrieved from; Wests Encyclopedia of American Law, edition 2 (2008). 3. This last criticism, is turned to the rich and wealthy criminals, who make use of the insanity plea. It is argued; â€Å"only wealthy defendant have the ability to retain a high-priced psychiatrist, who may be able to declare the defendant insane with the performed examination†. It also is believed, people who have less monetary funds and depend on the defense of a public defender, will not receive the same quality of defense, and they are also unable to receive the same value within the insanity exam. Such critic is based on the suggestion, that the insanity defense should be eliminated. Retrieved from; Wests Encyclopedia of American Law, edition 2 (2008). 3. When a mentally ill person is convicted and incarcerated, what are some of the difficulties in providing appropriate psychological treatment for these offenders? The difficulties in providing appropriate care, to a incarcerated mentally ill person, would stand to the inappropriate care and knowledge of the staff or facility personnel, to the condition of the mentally ill. A prison or jail is not equipped nor can such establishment provide the correct treatment to the mentally ill. To take in consideration the staff and the special medical treatment such person would require, every day, while in such confinement. But the alternative to this problem is stated in: Wrightsman’s Psychology and the Legal System, 6e,(2011) in which it is proposed; â€Å"When defendants are found incompetent to stand trial, they can be committed for a period of treatment designed to restore their competence†. And also; â€Å"for dealing with the unrestorably incompetent criminal defendant include her or his waiving the right to be found incompetent to proceed to trial and using a special form of commitment for incompetent defendants who are judged at a provisional trial to be guilty of the crimes with which they are chargedâ€Å". Retrieved from; Wrightsman’s Psychology and the Legal System, 6e, pg; 249 (2011). It is my believe, the above suggested method, would be the better approach to the incarceration of incompetent or the mentally ill offenders.

A play that was written by Arthur Miller in the 1950s Essay Example for Free

A play that was written by Arthur Miller in the 1950s Essay The Crucible is a play that was written by Arthur Miller in the 1950s. The play was originally produced in 1953 at a time where McCarthyism was at its peak. This was a time of American paranoia when Americans believed that the Russians were planning start a war with them. The Americans accused members of the society of been a communist spy for the most trivial reasons. It was a situation of hysteria. This was very similar to the situation in Salem two hundred years earlier. The people of Salem would believe anyone to be a witch even if they had very little or no evidence. Salem was governed by theocracy this meant the church ran the local government, therefore they had orthodox religious beliefs. Arthur Miller compares these two situations to show that we all should learn from past mistakes. The past events in Salem contributed to the situation in 1950s America, this shows Causation. The title reflects the play because a crucible is a container used to expose its contents to very high temperatures, this can cause impurities to rise to the surface, its metaphoric meaning is a place of severe test or trial. In the play eighteenth century Salem becomes a Crucible, Judge Danforth creates a situation in which he is trying to force the supposed witches to the surface and purify Salem. Miller uses dramatic techniques to maintain the audiences interest the message that Miller conveys is to learn from your mistakes and not to jump to conclusions. Abigail changes the way she acts when interrogated by Hale. Abigail has previously been perceived as a dynamic and powerful individual however when Rev. Hale questions her she comes across as very desperate and paranoid. This is shown when Abigail says, I am a good girl, a proper girl. She attempts to make herself out to be a model Puritan, Parris and Hale are manipulated but the audience knows that Abigail is no telling the truth, this is dramatic irony. The playwright Arthur Miller presents Abigail to be extremely deceptive and two-faced, as he wants the audience to dislike her. This is shown when Abigail notices an opportunity to blame Tituba for the unchristian and unlawful activities that she has committed. For instance Abigail blames Tituba for making her laugh in the middle of prayer and for waking her in the night and Abi finds herself naked. Miller does this to give an insight of the sin Tituba is not given the chance to object or justify Abigails accusations. An example of this is Mister Reverend, I never. And Hale interrupts her by saying Tituba I want you to wake this child. Reverend Hale is not interested in Titubas defence but her satanic influence. This shows that Hale does not pity Tituba he hears that which he wishes to hear. This reveals that the citizens of Salem will believe what they are told, they follow the majority. When Tituba enters the room Abigail immediately puts the blame on her. This shows that Abigail was under a lot of pressure, so much so that she transferred the blame onto the first person that entered the room. Tituba was not expecting Abigail to blame her. She shows this when the stage directions are shocked and angry Tituba previously considered Abi to be a loyal and honest person. Tituba has misinterpreted Abigails character. Miller increases the tension as the audience sympathises with the slave since her English is bad and she is been tricked into admitting something she has not done. When Abigail mentions the word blood, Parris Mrs Putnam and Tituba all repeat it. This reveals that the incident that took place in the forest was not as innocent as was first thought. It shows that in fact it was a lot more sinister. The repetition of this key work creates tension since repetition creates a sense of hysteria. Miller reveals this information to increase the audiences interest. The characters that repeat the word blood are insecure and gullible.

Water and Management Precipitation Input

Water and Management Precipitation Input Abstract: One of the key issues in flood management is knowledge of the precipitation input into catchments for hydrologists knowledge of this serves to mitigate hazardous and environmental catastrophes, it is thus imperative to adequately determine precipitation input with appropriate and applicable statistical tools. The objective of this study is to determine the actual precipitation input and suggest the most appropriate method of determining precipitation input for the model catchment provided. Standard and commonly used methods of obtaining the areal precipitation input over a catchment area from rain gauge measurements at the precipitation stations are the Arithmetic mean, Thiessen Polygon, Isohyetal, and the Hypsometric methods. These methods serve as good approximations where the topography of a catchment is flat, if the gauges are uniformly distributed and the individual gauge catches do not differ extensively from the mean. Arithmetic mean: This is the simplest form of giving a value of the average rainfall over a certain area, and works well under the following conditions: When the catchment area is sampled by many uniformly spaced rain gauges When the area has no marked diversity in topography (Davie, 2008) Applying this measurement tool to the arithmetic mean: There are 7 rain gauges with the mean value being 27.14 The total catchment area is = 456km 456 million square meters, 27mm = 0.027 meters So 456,000,000 x 0.027m  § = 12,312,000 m3 Thiessen Polygons: The method was devised by an American engineer, the method provides for the non-uniform distribution of gauges by determining a weighting factor for each gauge. This factor is based on the size of the area within the drainage basin that is closest to a given rain gauge. These areas are otherwise known as irregular polygons. The method is straightforward and easy to use: The catchment is divided into polygons by lines that are equidistant between pair of adjacent stations The lines/polygons are bisected Workout the area of each polygon by counting the squares within each Sums up the areas Compare to arithmetic method to confirm the two are the same Convert the individual polygonal areas to million sq meters and multiply by the converted precipitation rain gauges for example: o 178,000,000 x0.055 =9,790,000 Once this is done add them altogether to derive the total volume of precipitation input within the catchment. Isohyetal method This considered one of the most accurate methods; however as one will often find the method is subject to individual abilities and the knowledge of the general catchment. (Shaw, 1994) The method is more complicated than the first two: To derive of an accurate estimation of the rainfall input one must first find the distance between two rain gauges in mm and eventually interpolate and extrapolate the line to give the adjacent rainfall levels, which can later be plotted back onto the catchment sheet. i.e. method of summation: get the equidistant line between the two rain gauges take for example the distance in mm between gauge A and B 8.5cm-convert to mm- 85mm find the difference between the two rainfall gauges 55-30=25 now to work out the a  ¼ of 85, one would divide 85/100 and multiply this by 25  § =21.25 Which is subsequently a  ¼ of the equidistant line between the two rainfall gauges This figure can be used to derive the 2/4 point, the  ¾ point etc. By simply doubling the 21.25 figure you arrive at the 2/4 or 50% point and then to get the 75% point adds 21.25 to the 50% point. One must now expand on the quartiles between the rainfall gauges: This is done by using the difference (25) calculated earlier. Half of this gives 12.5 which when added to the first gauge, or gauge B (30mm) you get 42.5. Half of 12.5 gives 6.25, which when added to 30 gives 36.25, and so on until it matches against the adjacent measuring line. (*see supplementary sheets to see for techniques and further explanation) -once this is done plot the rainfall values using the adjacent measurements and join lines of equal rainfall Then progress to count the areas between the isohyets and find the average the two. Convert the individual areas to million sq meters and multiply by the converted average precipitation values for example: 31,000,000 x 0.059 = 1,829,000 cm3 Do the same with all the values; add them to get the total volume of precipitation input. Hypsometric Method The method uses catchment topography and the rainfall measurements to derive of a total weighted precipitation input. It fairly accurate however is also dependant on the abilities of an individual, whilst drawing the hypsometric curve. The hypsometric curve allows for adjacent precipitation values to read from the graph. The area underneath the curve of precipitation gives the area of an individual gauge, and can be calculated thereafter in the same system as the previous two methods: Analysis/Conclusion: It is clear from the results that the arithmetic mean is the likely to be less accurate than the other 3 methods, this is due to the catchment having qualities, such as topography and well distributed gauges which are characteristics that prove desirable to the other three methods. I have averaged the precipitation inputs to get a more accurate figure: Averaged 15,027,250 Total volume cm3 It has been very difficult to observe a trend of between the methods, however three major patterns have been observed, the arithmetic mean varies much from the Thiessen weights and other two weights, showing that on one level the arithmetic mean is less accurate and takes the values into a much broader scale, whereas the other three methods are much more specific. The relation between the weights is very spread because the precipitation input is governed by various factors and complex activities, and each method also demands certain qualities within a catchment for it to be applied appropriately, take for example the Isohyetal method which is subjective to individual abilities and knowledge of the catchment area, which in this case is not entirely possible, given the limited background information. References: Davie, T., (2008) Fundamentals of Hydrology Volume 1 of Routledge fundamentals of physical geography series, 2, illustrated, Routledge, pp28-30 Brooks, K. N., (2003) Hydrology and the management of watersheds, ed.3, illustrated, Wiley-Blackwell, pp30-34 ASCE (1996) Hydrology handbook, Iss. 28 Vol. 28 of Time Life Complete Gardener, American Society of Civil Engineers Publications, pp 40-48 Shaw, E.M., (1994) Hydrology in Practice, Taylor Francis, illustrated, 3rd ed., pp208-212

A Morbid Taste for Bones, by Ellis Peters, and Favorite Father Brown St

Think nothing exciting ever happens in the life of a clergyman? These two thrilling books, A Morbid Taste for Bones, by Ellis Peters, and Favorite Father Brown Stories, by G.K. Chesterton, may make you reassess that presupposition. Favorite Father Brown Stories concerns an English priest named Brown who lives in 19th century England, and takes on various odd cases that come his way in everyday life. Alternately, A Morbid Taste for Bones concerns an older monk named Brother Cadfael who lives in the middle ages, and is caught in the middle of the murder of a farmer in a small village. Desperately, he tries to figure out who murdered the man, to appease the farmer’s livid daughter Sioned. Since both Brown and Cadfael are of the priesthood, it is fascinating comparing the two characters and seeing how they are similar, and how they are different. Particularly, they contrast in terms of the time and setting they live in, and also in their methods of solving cases, but they are simi lar in how they both share the same view that man is a depraved being, capable of both great virtue and terrible evil. One thing that separates the two characters of Father Brown and Brother Cadfael is the world that the two men live in, which is separated by several centuries of time and a seemingly different reality. For instance, Brown lives in the very down to earth, highly materialistic world of 1800’s England. In all of his stories, there seem to be very little, if any, reference to the supernatural. Actually, in one Brown story, â€Å"The Salad of Colonel Cray†, when a colonel suspects that he was placed under a curse by the head of a cult because of odd occurrences such as being slightly touched and having blood run down his neck violently, Brown ends... ...dfael lives in the mysterious times of the Middle Ages in Europe. Also, there is the fact that Brown is more of an introverted thinker, who keeps to himself until he has finally solved the mysterious cases surrounding him. Meanwhile, Brother Cadfael verbally processes and goes through his cases with those he can trust. But the thing that connects the two members of priesthood together is the fact that they both share a common view of man: that he is capable of good, but just as capable, and prone, to injustice, and iniquity. But these two sleuthing priests try to ensure that no injustice goes unnoticed when they are around, and that is what makes these books a joy to read. Works Cited Chesterton, G.K. Favorite Father Brown Stories. New York; Dover Publications, Inc. Print. 1993. Peters, Ellis. A Morbid Taste for Bones. New York; The Mysterious Press. Print. 1977

Intentism - The Resurrection of the Author Essay -- Literature

Since the 1920s, a certain view regarding meaning in art has dominated the Anglo-American universities and became almost dogma. This viewpoint insists that works of art should primarily be understood by how minds receive them rather than by the psychology that created them. Such an understanding of meaning in art essentially relegates the artist to just another interpreter of his or her own artwork. For this reason Roland Barthes famously proclaimed ‘the death of the author’. To refer to the artist’s intention was to naively refer to the unknowable and to place unnecessary limitations on the wealth of possible readings of the artwork. Intention was seen to stifle the work. Adrian Searle in the Guardian once referred to Tony Cragg’s sculptures by enthusing, ‘Finally freed from the artist’s ideas and fantasies of intention, all the conceits that made its existence possible, including the fundamental act of making, the work floats freely, emerging from a kind of blindness’ (1). In contrast, a group of artists have surfaced who share the belief that the author is alive and well and able to communicate their intended meaning to their intended audience with a degree of accuracy sufficient for them to be pioneers in society, helping to shape what will be, rather than merely documenters of society, recording what is and was. We believe that to consider the artist’s role as anything less is to effectively gag the artist, or simply drown the artist’s intended meaning in a cacophony of conflicting interpretations. We have become known as Intentists and we claim that ‘All meaning is simply the imperfect outworking of intention.’ What follows is a brief outline of this position and its importance. A: What is intention? At the hear... ...ate Gallery Pub Ltd), 108 2) Mele, Alfred R. 1992. Springs of Action (Oxford: Oxford University Press), 141 3) See Sextus Empiricus’ story of the happy accident of the artist Apelles of Kolophon in the Preface of Livingston, Paisley. 2005. Art and Intention (Oxford: Oxford University Press), vii 4) Furlon, William (editor). 1995. The Dynamics of Now, (Tate Gallery Pub Ltd) 95 5) Ibid 6) Ibid, 152 7) Iseminger, Gary (editor). 1992. Intention and Interpretation (Temple University Press), 25-27 8) Ibid 25 9) Ibid 26 10) Gadamer, Hand-Georg. 1960. Truth and Method (Tubingen), 299-300 11) Livingston, Paisley. 2005. Art and Intention (Oxford: Oxford University Press), 93 12) Hirsch, Edward D Jr. 1967. Validity in Interpretation (New Haven: Yale University Press) 13) Iseminger, Gary (editor). 1992. Intention and Interpretation (Temple University Press), 26-27