Free Essays on Roman Empire

Julius Caesar The Romans had a practical attitude to religion, as to most things, which perhaps explains why they themselves had difficulty in taking to the idea of a single, all-seeing, all-powerful god. As the Romans had a religion of their own, it was not based on any central belief, but on a mixture of fragmented rituals, taboos, superstitions, and traditions which they collected over the years from a number of sources. To the Romans, religion was less a spiritual experience than a contractual relationship between mankind and the forces that were believed to control people's existence and well being. The result of such religious attitudes were two things: a state cult, the significant influence on political and military events of which outlasted the republic, and a private concern, in which the head of the family oversaw the domestic rituals and prayers in the same way as the representatives of the people performed the public ceremonials. However, as circumstances and people's view of the world changed, individuals whose personal religious needs remained unsatisfied turned increasingly during the first century AD to the mysteries, which were of Greek origin, and to the cults of the east. Most of the Roman gods and goddesses were a blend of several religious influences. Many were introduced via the Greek colonies of southern Italy. Many also had their roots in old religions of the Etruscans or Latin tribes. Most form of religious activity required some kind of sacrifice. And prayer could be a confusing matter due to some gods having multiple names or their sex even being unknown. The practice of Roman religion was a confusing thing. If the Roman State entertained temples and rituals for the benefit of the greater gods, then the Romans in the privacy of their own homes also worshipped their domestic deities. After the Augustan Age, people started to believe in different god(s). Jesus of Nazareth was a charismatic Jewish le... Free Essays on Roman Empire Free Essays on Roman Empire The Greeks, after their country had been reduced into a province, imputed the triumphs of Rome, not to the merit, but to the FORTUNE, of the republic. The inconstant goddess, who so blindly distributes and resumes her favours, had now consented (such was the language of envious flattery) to resign her wings, to descend from her globe, and to fix her firm and immutable throne on the banks of the Tiber.[1] A wiser Greek, who has composed, with a philosophic spirit, the memorable history of his own times, deprived his countrymen of this vain and delusive comfort by opening to their view the deep foundations of the greatness of Rome.[2] The fidelity of the citizens to each other, and to the state, was confirmed by the habits of education and the prejudices of religion. Honour, as well as virtue, was the principle of the republic; the ambitious citizens laboured to deserve the solemn glories of a triumph; and the ardour of the Roman youth was kindled into active emulation, as often as the y beheld the domestic images of their ancestors.[3] The temperate struggles of the patricians and plebeians had finally established the firm and equal balance of the constitution; which united the freedom of popular assemblies with the authority and wisdom of a senate-and the executive powers of a regal magistrate. When the consul displayed the standard of the republic, each citizen bound himself, by the obligation of an oath, to draw his sword in the cause of his country, till he had discharged the sacred duty by a military service of ten years. This wise institution continually poured into the field the rising generations of freemen and soldiers; and their numbers were reinforced by the warlike and populous states of Italy, who, after a brave resistance, had yielded to the valour, and embraced the alliance, of the Romans. The sage historian, who excited the virtue of the younger Scipio and beheld the ruin of Carthage,[4] has accurately described their mili... Free Essays on Roman Empire Julius Caesar The Romans had a practical attitude to religion, as to most things, which perhaps explains why they themselves had difficulty in taking to the idea of a single, all-seeing, all-powerful god. As the Romans had a religion of their own, it was not based on any central belief, but on a mixture of fragmented rituals, taboos, superstitions, and traditions which they collected over the years from a number of sources. To the Romans, religion was less a spiritual experience than a contractual relationship between mankind and the forces that were believed to control people's existence and well being. The result of such religious attitudes were two things: a state cult, the significant influence on political and military events of which outlasted the republic, and a private concern, in which the head of the family oversaw the domestic rituals and prayers in the same way as the representatives of the people performed the public ceremonials. However, as circumstances and people's view of the world changed, individuals whose personal religious needs remained unsatisfied turned increasingly during the first century AD to the mysteries, which were of Greek origin, and to the cults of the east. Most of the Roman gods and goddesses were a blend of several religious influences. Many were introduced via the Greek colonies of southern Italy. Many also had their roots in old religions of the Etruscans or Latin tribes. Most form of religious activity required some kind of sacrifice. And prayer could be a confusing matter due to some gods having multiple names or their sex even being unknown. The practice of Roman religion was a confusing thing. If the Roman State entertained temples and rituals for the benefit of the greater gods, then the Romans in the privacy of their own homes also worshipped their domestic deities. After the Augustan Age, people started to believe in different god(s). Jesus of Nazareth was a charismatic Jewish le... Free Essays on Roman Empire The Roman Empire stood in great power for many decades. Rome for a period of time was considered the center of civilization for years. The empire was beautiful and even though attracted many invaders, was very well protected by the walls surrounding the empire and of course the powerful army. Some people believed that the Roman Empire would last forever. Political Causes Under the rule of Diocletian and later Constantine the empire was split into Western and Eastern parts of Rome. The emperors said that the reason for that was to make it easier to govern. The emperor chose to govern and build the capital in the Eastern part and gave the Western part to a co-emperor. The reason for that might have been that the eastern part was much richer in resources and had better lands for farming. There may have been other reasons for that such as the Eastern part did not produce enough food for both parts of the empire and by separating them they’d have to produce their own food and depend upon themselves. This was the beginning, to a long struggle of the Western part that was now basically left alone. Many reforms came in to law to keep the empire together, such as toleration of Christianity to avoid their rebellion since there were a lot of them. In 313 a.d. the Church started taking part in government which slowly took power away from the empero r. More reforms like fixing prices and giving more freedom of worship kept the empire together but definitely would not last long. This is so because these reforms were made to fit people today taking away from the emperor but they never thought of what’s going to happen after the emperor does not have anything left to give. Which would occur very soon if things were going down as fast they were? There was no one to take matters into their hands so the empire was left to the people themselves to govern. Social Causes The people of the Western empi... Free Essays on Roman Empire Mediterranean World Julius Caesar The Romans had a practical attitude to religion, as to most things, which perhaps explains why they themselves had difficulty in taking to the idea of a single, all-seeing, all-powerful god. As the Romans had a religion of their own, it was not based on any central belief, but on a mixture of fragmented rituals, taboos, superstitions, and traditions which they collected over the years from a number of sources. To the Romans, religion was less a spiritual experience than a contractual relationship between mankind and the forces that were believed to control people's existence and well being. The result of such religious attitudes were two things: a state cult, the significant influence on political and military events of which outlasted the republic, and a private concern, in which the head of the family oversaw the domestic rituals and prayers in the same way as the representatives of the people performed the public ceremonials. However, as circumstances and people's view of the world changed, individuals whose personal religious needs remained unsatisfied turned increasingly during the first century AD to the mysteries, which were of Greek origin, and to the cults of the east. Most of the Roman gods and goddesses were a blend of several religious influences. Many were introduced via the Greek colonies of southern Italy. Many also had their roots in old religions of the Etruscans or Latin tribes. Most form of religious activity required some kind of sacrifice. And prayer could be a confusing matter due to some gods having multiple names or their sex even being unknown. The practice of Roman religion was a confusing thing. If the Roman State entertained temples and rituals for the benefit of the greater gods, then the Romans in the privacy of their own homes also worshipped their domestic deities. After the Augustan Age, people started to believe in different god(s). Jesus of Nazareth was a ... Free Essays on Roman Empire Throughout history there have been many eras that both share similarities as well as differences in the areas of art and civilization. Two eras that illustrate this are the Roman Empire and the Byzantium Empire. In Rome there were three major art forms. The first was civil engineering, which involved building cities in an orderly fashion, in order to accommodate the needs of all citizens. The Romans also used portrait sculptures, which reflected the roman ideals about their people being stern as well as individual. They were used to illustrate the love of patriarchy, love of family, and were usually portraits of actual people. The third art form was commemorative monuments. These were used for propaganda. The monuments helped to instill fear in possible threats, or potential invaders. Also the arch and vault were essential part of Roman monumental architecture. The Romans were a militaristic Empire. They used their architecture to emphasize their power. For example the column of Trajen was used to show the wonder of civil engineering, and the emphasis on military might and their superiority over everyone. The Gladiator Games also say something about Roman civilization. The audience’s at the games were watching the government in action, and witnessing law and order being maintained. By participating in these games the citizens were participating in society, and therefore participating in the government to a certain degree. In the Byzantium Empire the major theme was the idea of God and government. The emperor did not rule by the word of God, but he was the word of God. He was God’s instrument of divine providence personified. This may have been the most total form of Government in the world, in that there was no participatory government. The use of icons was prevalent in the art of Byzantium. The paintings of Christ, saints, and other holy figures illustrated their orthodox beliefs. In Byzantium there was a ...

Biotech & Food Essays - Genetic Engineering, Molecular Biology

Biotech & Food Essays - Genetic Engineering, Molecular Biology Biotech & Food INTRODUCTION This paper is about Biotechnology and its use in creating new food products. In researching this paper, I found there is a lot of information on this subject and a lot of debate on the creation of genetically altered food, medicine, crops, and more. I decided to do my paper on the genetically altered food part of the subject. I will discuss what biotechnology is, who is for it and who is against it, and what some of the ethical concerns are when it comes to growing genetically modified (GM) crops. THE FOOD BIOTECHNOLOGY DEBATE WHAT IS BIOTECHNOLOGY? Biotechnology is a broad term that applies to all living organisms. It is used for everything from microorganisms used to ferment beer to the most sophisticated forms of gene therapy. There are two categories of activities in biotechnology: the traditional methods and new scientific methods. The traditional methods are the way that farmers have been breeding their crop for centuries, cross breeding plants until finally some generation down the line is exactly the way they want it. The new methods are taking genes from different organisms and inserting them into another organism in the lab. This eliminates the waiting period to get the results they want, instead they get the exact plant they want right away. The United States government defines it as being any technique that uses living organisms or parts of living organisms to (1) make or modify products, (2) improve plants or animals, or (3) develop microorganisms for specific uses. The purpose of biotechnology in foods is to create better tasting and more nutritious foods, that have higher crop yields, and plants that are naturally protected from disease, insects, and drought. Through biotechnology scientist can develop plants with only specific beneficial traits and leave out the undesirable traits. They can change one characteristic or a few characteristics at a time with current technology. This enables them to release, for use, the modified seeds one step at a time instead of spending years to develop the best tasting and hardiest plants all at once. It takes 10 12 years to breed plants in the traditional way. With biotechnology, breeders can select the exact traits they are looking for and mix them together enabling them to get the plants they want in only 1 - 2 years. Crops that are currently produced in the U.S. through biotechnology are soybeans, corn, canola, tomatoes, squash, and potatoes. These crops are suppose to be improved versions of the traditional ones with added beneficial traits. RISKS Som e of the risks, to humans, that scientists have identified are new allergens in the food supply, antibiotic resistance, a concentration of toxic metals, and enhancement of the environment for toxic fungi. NEW ALLERGENS New allergens could cause problems for people that are sensitive to certain things and do not know that they are now part of something else that they were not allergic to. For example if they put certain milk proteins into carrots, parents would know not to give children allergic to milk the milk but they would not think twice about giving them the transgenic carrots that now contain milk proteins. A study done at the University of Nebraska showed that soybeans that were genetically engineered to contain proteins from Brazil nuts caused people allergic to Brazil nuts to have reactions to the soybeans. ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE In genetic engineering the often use antibiotic resistant genes as what they call selectable markers. The markers help select cells that have taken up foreign genes. Although the cells no longer have a use for the genes, they still stay in the plant tissues forever. Having these antibiotic genes in foods could cause two problems. This first is eating the foods that contain the genes could reduce the effectiveness of taking antibiotics that need to be taken with food when you are sick. An example is if you eat a tomato with the antibiotic genes at the same time as you take an antibiotic, the genes could destroy the antibiotic in your stomach. The second thing that could happen is the resistance genes could be transferred to humans making the antibiotics taken when ill useless. Although number two is

Legal system and methods cases Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Legal system and methods cases - Essay Example The appellant raised two issues on appeal. The first issue was that the Advocate-depute included in their indictment Count 1, which was a count for false imprisonment of one Tracy McGhee, and Count 2 was for distributing Amphetamines, in contravention of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, Section 4(3)(b). The issue on appeal was that the Advocate-deputes did not lead any evidence at trial for either of these Counts, therefore they should not have been included in the indictment. The appellant asked to separate these charges from the other charges, but this request was refused. Furthermore, the Advocate-depute did not attempt to rectify this by changing the indictment to omit these counts. The trial judge acquitted the appellant on these two charges, and gave explicit instructions to the jury not to consider these two counts. However, when the trial judge gave his instructions to the jury, he asked the jury to consider if including these counts in the indictment was fair or unfair. This is not the function of the jury, rather, the judge is to make this assessment. The second issue on appeal was that a witness, Samuel Quigg, stated on the stand that he was indicted for conspiracy to commit robbery in 1988, along with the appellant, Mr. Donnell. This prejudiced the appellant, as evidence of any prior convictions cannot be used against him. Although this was not a prior conviction that was brought up by the witness, it was an indictment, the context was that he was being asked about his prior convictions, so the jury could probably assume that the witness was convicted along with appellant. This statement was volunteered by Mr. Quigg, not solicited by the Advocate-depute or the appellant’s solicitor, a fact that is significant. That there was evidence of a prior conviction before the jury was in contravention of Section 101 of Scotland’s Criminal Procedure Act 1995. The appellant asked

Julphar (Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Julphar (Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries) - Essay Example Rwanda requires companies to observe patent laws. Explicit registration procedures are in order to protect the work of innovators. Since Julphar will be in exporting materials needed for the production of medicine in Rwanda, it will be appropriate for a company to consider patent issues associated with exports to Rwanda. Incentives offered by the government of Rwanda to patients provide the company an opportunity to recover the costs of producing new medicine (GTZ, 2006). The political environment in Rwanda is stable after the country emerged from the 1994 skirmishes. Political turmoil affects operations of a business because wars may erupt (GTZ, 2006). The government of Rwanda is stable with the country recording progress in exercising governance. Julphar will have an advantage because the Rwandan government supports external investors who enjoy many business incentives. When the regime in power is stable, opportunities are opened for investors unlike when the government is with dictators. Rwanda has continued to record increased GDP in the past few years. More citizens are, therefore, able to purchase goods and services. The growth implies that there will be a ready market for the company’s product (GTZ, 2006). Economic conditions in Rwanda may create opportunities or threats to Julphar. The country’s GDP has continued to improve over the years implying that the existence of a robust, ready market because consumers have the purchasing power. The social, cultural practices and taboos will equally expose the company to new opportunities or threats since they influence consumption patterns (GTZ, 2010). Pharmaceutical industry is among the fastest growing industries globally. The development of the industry has been by via the efforts of the government to have a higher budget for carrying out marketing research and developmental projects in the pharmaceutical industry. The industry is worth more than $734, and it is expected to grow further (UK

Strategic Alliance Essay Example for Free

Strategic Alliance Essay The collaborations between companies have been one of the most critical changes in industrial field during the last three decades. Through outsourcing and taking off ‘non-core’ activities, corporate borders have been pulled back and large companies are increasingly cooperated with other companies to access resources and devote themselves to activities outside their own boundaries. Business cooperative relationship between companies is regarded as ‘hybrid’ organizational forms (Borys and Jemison, 1989; Powell. 987; Thorelli. 1986). In order to access more international market and reduce risks, the hybrid organizational forms are mainly realized by contractual agreement, strategic alliance and joint venture. Compared to some casual cooperative arrangements between companies, strategic alliance is refer to a long-term, substantial collaboration, which is ‘an agreement characterized by the commitment of two or more firms to achieve a shared goal entailing the pooling of their resources and activities’ (Teece. 1992, p. 19). It can be put on a continuum, where contractual agreement is on one end, characterizing low control and resource commitment, whilst the other end is joint venture, representing a high control and high resource commitment (Hill et al. 1990). Variety types of strategic alliances include shared new product development, supply chain partnerships, technical collaboration, outsourcing agreements, joint research projects, etc. In these days, strategic alliances are more and more important for firms to achieve efficiency and effectiveness in the international market. Through cooperation rather than competition, firms can access knowledge and market resources over both firms, instead or acquiring them. It is not just costs and time saving, but also increasing the efficiency with which knowledge is utilized. Firms are entering into strategic alliances because of numerous factors. The rapid change in technology with high expenditures on RD, intensifying competitions, globalization and so on. Different companies have their own competitive advantages, which can be beneficial to other parties. Resources, especially technology and market information, can be shared by parties under strategic alliance. For example, Starbucks entered an alliance with Barnes and Nobles Bookstores in 1990s, to provide their in-house coffee service in their stores. Barnes and Nobles’ market resources has been utilized, resulting in Starbucks coffee being marketed into bookstores. As well as that, more customers were gained by Barnes and Nobles, thanks to the outstanding Starbucks coffee offered in store. Although theoretically, forming strategic alliances can bring immense benefits to companies and reduce the risks in projects, it is not rare to see problems in practice. Differences in cultural and language, control related problems, even the differences in cognizance can lead to failures. In this article, we will focus on not only on the increasing importance of strategic alliance in international market, but also the motives, benefits, related costs and limitations. Our group work is done in three parts. Part (A) Introduction and Literature Review is done by Jiaxing and Lily. Jiaxing gives the definition of strategic alliance, while Lily is responsible for literature research and critical review. Followed by the literature review, a case study will be given in part (B) by Xinrui, to demonstrate how the literature is confirm or disconfirmed by practice. In part (C), a brief conclusion of this topic will be given by Mehedi and come up with the forecast of trend and new topics in this area, based on Part (A), Part (B) and the further information collected by Kazi. Literature Review There are abundant studies trying to address the definition of strategic alliance. Based on resource-dependence theory (Pfeffer. 978) and the resource-based view of the firm (Penrose, 1957), some scholars (Van De Van and Walker, 1984; Rothaermel, 2001) have identified strategic alliances as a quest for resources. Also, a majority of researchers view the alliances’ priority objectivity as sharing of knowledge (Inkpen and Crosssan, 1995; Khanna et al. ,1998; Kale et al. , 2000), which is the organization learning perspective. As a result, alliance member seek to learn faster than other parties, trying to achieve a positive balance in the trade of knowledge, which is so called ‘Competition for Learning’ (Hamel, 1991). The number of strategic alliance has been increasing rapidly since late 1980s (Vissi, 1997). The following is an integration of our findings in literature. Motives of Alliance Formation In the article of Varadarajan and Cunningham (1995), motives for firms entering a strategic alliance is analysed: Globalization and intensified international competition: With the development of telecommunication and traffic, there is a major trend of globalization in the last few decades. More and more corporations are trying to break into foreign markets to widen their market. Strategic alliance is an efficient and effective way in gaining complementary resources from a foreign party and reduces risks. Remove barriers to enter new markets: In certain international markets, especially the developing ones, firms often have difficulties due to some domestic factors, such as government regulation and local parties’ resistance. By forming an alliance with local firms, the expansion can be realized more smoothly and the risk is reduced. Broaden product lines/ narrowing product line gap: Firms can be especially interested in finding another partner, when they are in lack of technology or not able to bear the high RD costs. Existing technology of partner can be utilized in a short timeframe and also costs-saving. In this way, their product lines can be broaden and the gap between product line can be narrowed. Enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of utilizing resources: each partner in strategic alliance should have their own competitive advantages, such as technology, market resources, local experiences, logistic systems, etc. y forming the alliances, these advantages can be shared by parties and making all of them more competitive than before. Extension and acquire new resources: Resource acquisition is an essential motive in formulation of strategic alliance. Manufacturing firms often enter into alliance to acquire RD resources; whilst technology companies is seeking to gain the market resources as much as possible. There are two forms of strategic alliances: market related and technology related (Vyas et al. 1995). In a mature market, it is often the case in which the market related alliances are more profitable. However technology, related alliance tend to be more beneficial for high-tech firms compared to others (Rai et al. 1996). Researches of Vyas et al (1995) show that synergy between the partners is the key factors to achieve efficiency and effectiveness. In order to know the synergy, a comprehensive understanding of the value that partners can bring to the alliance has to be acquired before entry. Also, a balance of control and contribution to the alliance need to be agreed to ensure the success and avoid conflict as much as possible. Limitations of Strategic Alliances When the needs of each partner are fulfilled, each party can benefit from the formation of strategic alliances. However, alliances are not without its problems. Due to numerous reasons, such as differences in cognizance, aims and resources, changes can be triggered. In some cases, projects with imbalanced benefits or control between parties can end up damaging the relationship of trust. In some cases strategic alliances broke up as a result. Usually the factors driving to a failure can be imbalanced control, unequal gains, differences in cultural values and antitrust charges. According to Day (1995), the liquidation cost of a strategic alliance can be one of the most expensive costs to a corporation. Even if the partnership remains, there are many factors thwarting the normal operations of the combined entity. One of the most important factors is the extensive time managers have to spend on communication, trust-building, and coordination. As it takes time for parties in a partnership to consolidate their internal network, both in terms of communication and interests groups, there always comes with the strategic alliances very time-consuming consolidation process. A manager has to first know the personnel he is supervising as well as his own supervisors, who are possibly from a totally different business culture. It takes time for managers to know whom they can trust and who trust them. Only based on trust can further coordination be performed. Another factor that affects the long-term value of the firms participating in the partnership is the clash of egos and company cultures. Say if Google once form a strategic alliance with Goldman Sachs, the investment bankers cannot easily forgo their perfectionism to Google’s relaxing and creative culture fostered for their wired-in programmers. While there is a possibility for two different business culture to combine and generate an even more unique and efficient business culture, in most cases the history and the effort invested to build the current corporate culture may be wasted; traditions are inferior in strategic alliances. Part B: There are many successful market related and technology related alliances taking place in contemporary market. From the successful examples contributed by Apple, Helett Packard and Disney, and Eli Lilly, we can see the sharing of sources in alliances facilitate breakthroughs in technology and revenue maximization in marketing. While most strategic alliances play a propelling role in pushing the business of parties in the partnership further, there are some offsets implicitly caused by the alliance strategy. The notorious WorldComs, Global Crossings, and Enron scandals offer us convenient examples in showing the unconfirmed part of strategic alliances. This part will first discuss the cases provided by Apple, Helett Packard and Disney, and Eli Lilly that show the confirmed side of the theories enclosed in the literature in this essay. Following the confirmed side is the unconfirmed side contributed by the scandals originated from WorldComs, Global Corssings, and Enron. White the iPad redefined personal computers and created and captured the tablet market, it the strategic alliance behind the scene that makes the popularity of iPad possible. Apple’s technology alliance with Clearwell makes the development of iPad much more efficient when these two firms jointly developed the eDiscovery Platform. The eDiscovery Platform is the electronic discovery software solution that enables enterprises, governments and law firms to manage legal, regulatory and investigative matters using a single application. Such platform makes it easy for orgaizations to cost effectively and defensibly solve real-world chanlleges from legal hold and collections through analysis, review and production. Such technological largely helped Apple to capture the market in large legal entities. Hewlett Packard and Disney exemplified their alliance as a long-standing partnership. Starting back in 1938, the alliance enabled Disney to rely on HP’s RD capability, which helped Disney out from the eight oscillators for sound design sold to Disney over 70 years ago to the most recent digital film making techniques offered by HP engineers to Disney’s Imagineers. Undoubtedly, the technology support to Disney makes it a dominant mass media firm. Furthermore, the business generated fruitful RD products and cash inflow for HP to march farther. As a pharmaceutical tycoon, Eli Lilly features as a powerful research partner for nearly a century. Its enormous contribution to Diabetes medicine saved multimillions people. Similar to most pharmaceutical companies, the multi-phases RD process outsources the firm’s research capability, legal resources, and capital. Eli Lilly was able to save the costs by seeking international partners, such as the Belgium-based company Galapagos, Canada’s BioMS medical group, and the Japanese Kyowa Hakko Kogyo. Its alliance with Galapagos fasten the development of treatments for osteoporosis; its cooperation with the Japanese firm determines that Lilly will have the exclusive license to sell the targeted cancer treatment in Japan; and the partnership with BioMS in a licensing and development agreement for a novel treatment for multiple sclerosis saved overall costs. These real world examples confirmed that strategic alliances provide an efficient way to research and develop new products, to save legal cost, and to capture the international market at faster speed. While the classical strategic alliances examples confirmed with the literature, there are notable failures caused by the shortcoming of strategic alliances. As the most notorious business scandals in this century, Enron and its alliance with Arthur Andersen bring a vivid example of how alliance help them avoid legitimately report their financial standings and gain illegal benefit from forfeiting financial statements. When the scandal was exposed to the media, both firms bankrupted in an instant, making the largest bankruptcy in the US history. Other the Enron scandal was the WorldCom forfeit their income statement when trying to incorporate Verizon and evolve to the largest telecommunications provider. When the US government launched an anti-trust suit, WorldCom collapsed immediately. The shared resources play a beneficial role in lower the fixed cost for parties in the strategic alliances. However, joint effort and resources also mean joint benefit, which can propel the corporations as well as ruin it. When there is a conflict of interests, the advantages brought by strategic alliances are harmful.

The Purpose of Copyright Essay -- Property Laws

In today’s ever-accelerating world, we constantly find ourselves in a whirlwind of vague and complicated legal issues. Several of these relate specifically to something we encounter every time we listen to a song, look at a photograph, or read a book⎠¯copyrights. It appears that all these new controversies over copyrights and copyright infringement may be exaggerated or irrelevant. However, these issues pertaining copyright are neither irrelevant nor exaggerated, although this excessive attention constantly being drawn to it is certainly worth noting. The fact that copyrights are creating such an upheaval should not be attributed to over exaggeration. Instead, we must see this as a sign that copyrights as they are currently being maintained are in need of inspection and perhaps revision. Our excessive emphasis on claiming something as our property has caused copyright to act counter to its initial purpose. In order to best understand what the initial intention of copyrights was, it is necessary to look to where it is first expressed in our society. As it turns out, copyrights have been in place in our society since the crafting of the Constitution. Although there were several views as go how to best implement it, ultimately it was Thomas Jefferson’s notion of copyright that was most clearly incorporated into the Constitution. In it, it â€Å"†¦gives Congress the authority to ‘promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries’† (Lethem 63). This inclusion of a copyright for authors and inventors had a clear purpose⎠¯to create an incentive for the mass of typically ordinary people to create and innovate. By securing a pa... ...ss. Carolan, Michael S. â€Å"Constructing the ‘pure’ inventor: individual, collective, and corporate authorship within patent law.† New Genetics and Society. 27.4: (301-310). Helprin, Mark â€Å"Digital Barbarism: A Writer’s Manifesto.† Harper: HarperCollins Publishers. Litman, Jessica â€Å"Creative Reading.† Khan, B. Zorina. â€Å"The Democratization of Invention: Patents and Copyrights in American Economic Development, 1790-1920.† Nber: Cambridge University Press. Lethem, Jonathan. â€Å"The Ecstasy of Influence: A plagiarism.† Harper’s Magazine. The Founders' Constitution, Volume 3, Article 1, Section 8, Clause 8, Document 12 http://press-pubs.uchicago.edu/founders/documents/a1_8_8s12.html The University of Chicago PressThe Writings of Thomas Jefferson. Edited by Andrew A. Lipscomb and Albert Ellery Bergh. 20 vols. Washington: Thomas Jefferson Memorial Association, 1905.

What or who changed my life

Becoming a 16 year old mother changed my life Becoming a 16 year mother changed my life In more ways than one. I was totally blown away knowing that would have to devote my time, love, energy, smile, and money to another human being. Motherhood at such a young age was not a box of chocolate. In fact, it is a continuous fun, exciting, and overwhelming learning experience. Nevertheless, being a full-time mother, student. And wage-earner assisted in the astonishing mother I am today.It was a normal sunny fall school morning in September of 1993, when I first deiced for the second month in a row I hadn't had my menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycles in my world were unpleasant, heavy, unbearable, and caused me to blackout. Noticing another month without my cycle certainly raised a red flag. However, I continued on about my school day. In the blink of an eye the month of October was here. At this point I am feeling alarmed and fearful. After a few weeks pass by, I start to feel very Ill.I bega n to feel activity Inside my stomach. In this case, feeling punch kicks, rolls, and wiggles were very uncomfortable. My first thought was I have got to e pregnant! The following morning, while getting ready for school I began to vomit all over myself. As I jumped up I experienced an episode of syncope. As I recovered from this distasteful experience, I cleaned myself up and headed to school. So for the next four months, I felt terrified to tell my parents, siblings, and even my closest peers what I've been experiencing.Pregnant at 16 year's old was not a dream of mind, but a high school junior with determinations, super athletic skills, and potentials. I played softball, volleyball, track-star, and captain of the cheer-squad. With all my happenings, I hardly had time to gain weight. I mastered being pregnant, while continuing my education without anyone noticing. Until one Friday evening in February of 1994. I was getting ready for a movie date when my 12 year old twin brother spoil ed my evening. Chad Christopher comment was mommy Shanty' has a big stomach Like those women In church!My mother stepped In my room and elect to pop the question. Shanty' are you pregnant? I was truly petrified. In response I quickly shouted mol I proceeded with my date night. After I'd returned home, my mother pop the question again. Shanty' are you pregnant? The look in her eye was appalling. I stared in silence. Her words to me were what's done in the dark will come to light. At this point I advised her that it may be a possibility. So within the week she made an appointment to see the family Physician. It turns out I was 7 h months pregnant.After receiving the distraught news of my life, I fell to my knees and started to cry uncontrollably knowing that this human being would be here in less than three months. I was not ready to be a 16 year old mother. I had plans to attend Nicholls State, majoring In Pediatrics' after graduation. With no time to spare I had to prepare for a dra stic life changing encounter. For the next, two and a half months I felt relieved, excited, blue, and disappointed all at the same time. My mother suggested that I seek employment.I continued to go to school every day, do my house chores May 9, 1994. I was awakened by severe stomach cramps. I yelled to my mother in anguish. I advised her that I was in a lot of pain. She rushed into my room to assist me out of bed and we headed to the hospital. University hospital was our first stop. Nurse Sonny assigned me to a private room to monitor my contractions. I was there approximately three and a half hours before being released even though I was in excruciating pain. I was only dilating two centimeters for the past three hours.Nurse Betty advised me that in order for me to be hospitalized I would need to be at least three centimeters. The next four hours were the most uncomfortable and dreadful situation a teenage girl could experience. Around 7 a. M. I noticed blood in my panties. We hopp ed in the car and headed to the nearest hospital, despite being pulled over by N. O. P. D. For speeding. We yelled, there's a baby on the way! Upon arriving to Charity Hospital on May 9, 1994 within minutes Share L. Was born at 7:AAA. M. To Williams and Blancher. The moment I laid eyes on my baby girl was absolutely amazing.I didn't know how to feel nor react to what had Just occurred. I knew right then that this experience would make me see the world in a different light. I realized that I am someone's mother. Becoming a teenage mother changed my whole look on life. After our release from the hospital we were ready to conquer the world. On my way home all I could do was contemplate on all of the responsibilities that comes with being a mother. One of my life changing experiences as a 16 year old mother was learning how to love, nurture, care and provide for a human whom I'd carried for nine months.In the midst of all my new and exciting challenges, school was still in session. Just for a few more weeks. My five teachers were gracious enough to combine my lessons and allow me to finish out the school year. Without a doubt my education was very important to me. As the next few weeks crept by, I was slowly getting use to anytime feedings, diaper changes, playful moments, and continuing my education. Thoughts and emotions about how baby Ronnie will impact my life forever loud seem to cross my mind quite frequently.I would regularly stare at her and think to myself no more partying, selfishness, sleeping in, and playing cards were a part of my life style. But how wonderful, ambitious, eager, and a powerful role model of a mother I plan to become. Regardless, of what life threw my way. I believe becoming a mother was only the beginning of many accomplishments. Vive experienced many difficult days as a young mother. Such as, late work hours, keeping up with school lessons, exhaustion, being Judged by peers, and unable to be an average teenager. Spending my money on diaper's, formula, and clothing was a game changing experience.I wore several different hats at an early age. For example, a superdome, mentor, chef, teacher, nurse, bodyguard, and chauffeur. Knowing that my pride and Joy would be admiring me, kept me motivated and enthused to finish high school and go on to higher learning. Sharron is a 20 year old ambitious, loving, childless, young lady trying to pursue her nursing dream. As a 16 year old mother there were many obstacles and barriers to overcome. The constant encouragement from my daughter and parents abetted me in becoming the woman and mother I am today.

Investment Ethics Essay

The contemporary world of today functions on investment. There are many types of investment such as investment in property, shares, mutual funds, sugar, gold, oil, rice etcetera (Theodore , 1992). The list goes on and on with some forms of investment so inanely mundane like investment in over priced paintings by unknown artists that one is forced to shake their heads at the inanes of how far the concept of investment has come since its inception. Investment is described in dictionary as: â€Å"In finance, investment is the purchase of a financial product or other item of value with an expectation of favorable future returns. In general terms, investment means the use money in the hope of making more money. In business it is the purchase by a producer of a physical good, such as durable equipment or inventory, in the hope of improving future business. † Gambling on the other hand is almost as old as investment itself and its exact origins are unknown. Scientists believe that the ancient Romans would bet on the outcomes of chariot races and gladiator fights. It could be defined as: â€Å"†¦the wagering of money or something of material value on an event with an uncertain outcome with the primary intent of winning additional money and/or material goods. Typically, the outcome of the wager is evident within a short period (Linda , 2006). † Now, a raging debate in the world today is whether investment is or is not just another form of gambling. I am an opponent of this statement but will first give an argument in favor of the statement. The purpose of me including the definitions above was to prove that even the meaning of the words investment and gambling themselves are similar. Any kind of investment be it financial or physical, is done to gain money or to increase the investors’ wealth. Gambling also serves the same purpose which is to gain financially from an act (though some people gamble for the thrill of winning etc). Also, in money investment, finance managers everyday gamble outrageous amounts of other peoples’ money on chance. Such transactions entail high risks and if this is not a form of gambling then what is? In fact, in some religions like Islam, most forms of investment except investment in property and currency, is forbidden because they proclaim it to be gambling which is also forbidden in the religion. In that way, if for people of some faiths it is forbidden completely, then it is wrong from an ethical perspective because you are risking not only your own earnings but the money of those who have entrusted you with their wealth (like shareholders to security companies). In addition, it is wrong from a moral point of view. This is because gambling gives rise to selfishness in the human heart. Greed is a natural emotion for almost all people and investing money in the form of higher returns gives birth to insatiability for more money which is why we often see people at casinos squander all their gambling winnings in hope of winning more and more. It is selfish because gamblers profit on the wealth of others and do not care about the next person or what big a loss he suffers. Another way that gambling can be wrong is that it may make people idle and complacent. They may be happy to earn their money through gambling only. They may not work hard because of this for a living because of this and continue to live off gambling without caring that it is not a permanent or very stable source of income (Elizabeth , 2007). But even though their definitions may be partly similar, the two words are not common in their truest sense. I agree that investment puts peoples’ money at risk for chance of a higher return but it is done by professionals like investment managers and financial accountants instead of novices or any Tom, Dick and Harry trying out their luck like in gambling. It is a whole structured business activity with companies spending months deciding how to spend their customer’s capital and hedging (or insulating) the investment against any negative exchange rate or interest movement. Gambling on the other hand requires no such months of planning and development and can be done on the spot. Secondly, gambling involves one party losing and the other winning. The winning of one depends on the other’s loss. In investment, there is no such tradeoff and all investors can benefit at the same time. Another very valid point here is that gamblers often don’t have the same intensive information that investors have. In the long term, gamblers are always paid less in winnings then they have invested. That is not the case with investment. So the debate between whether gambling and investment continues unresolved with both sides vehemently arguing their point. Works Cited Theodore, V. Ethics in Investment Profession. Research Foundation of the Institute of Chart. (May 1992). Linda, K. T. Managing Business Ethics. Wiley. (Aug 2006). Elizabeth, A. C. The Psychology of Ethics In finance and Investment. Research Foundation of CFA Institute. (June 2007).

The Question of Legalizing Drugs essays

The Question of Legalizing Drugs essays Drug legalization is an enduring question that presently faces our scholars. This issue embraces two positions: drugs should not be legalized and drugs should be legalized. These two positions contain an array of angles that supports each issue. This brief of the issues enables one to consider the strengths and weakness of each argument, become aware of the grounds of disagreement and agreement and ultimately form an opinion based upon the positions stated within the articles. In the article Against the Legalization of Drugs, by James Q. Wilson, the current status of drugs is supported. Wilson believes if a drug such as heroin were legalized there would be no financial or medical reason to avoid heroin usage; therefore, anybody could afford it (367). Wilson stated that during 1960s, British physicians were allowed to prescribe heroin to addicts until the number of addicts increased fivefold. He argued that cocaine is not a victimless crime. Addicts victimize children by neglect and spouses by not providing (370). Wilson upholds that illegality of drugs increases crime because users need to pay for their habit (372). He believes the benefit of illegal drugs is it forces patients who enter under legal compulsion to complete their treatment due to the pressure and drug-education programs in the schools (374). Wilson is convinced the difference between nicotine and cocaine is that while tobacco shortens ones life, cocaine debase it and destroys the add icts humanity (375). Wilsons argument is strong because he demonstrates his knowledge of the subject and supports it with many clear, scientific facts and historical examples of drug usage. He interprets facts differently by seeing logical fallacy and factual error (371) in what other perceive as being a true. He also acknowledges his opposition by addressing how the advocates of legalization respond to his position. ...

The Different Types of Private Schools

The Different Types of Private Schools Did you know there are more than 30,000 private schools in the United States? It can be a bit overwhelming; the possibilities for finding a quality education are virtually endless. Add to this mix, that there are many different types of schools that exist for families to choose from. Lets take a look at some of the different types of private schools that exist and what the benefits of each option might be for you.   Private School or Independent School You may not know this, but all independent schools are considered private schools. But, not all private schools are independent. Whats the difference between the two? Funding. Thats truly the one thing that separates an independent school from the rest of the private schools. Boarding Schools Boarding Schools  can simply be defined as private schools where students also live. These residential schools bring together students from all different states and even countries to live and learn in one environment. The diversity at boarding schools is usually much greater than a private day school because of the residential aspect. Students live in dormitories, similar to the college experience, and have dorm parents who also reside on campus in the dorms, as well as in separate houses on campus. Often, because students live on campus, there are more opportunities for them to participate in after-school activities, as well as weekend and evening events. Boarding school opens up more opportunities for involvement at school than a day school and can give students more independence as they learn to live on their own without their parents in a nurturing and supportive environment, which can make the transition to college much easier. Single-Sex Schools As the name suggests, these are schools that are designed around educating only one gender. These schools can be boarding or day schools, but focus on the aspects of living and learning that best support one gender. Often, military schools may be all boys, and all girls schools are known for their traditions of sisterhood and empowerment. Read this article from Laurel, a graduate of an all-girls boarding school and her story of  how the experience changed her life.   Classical Christian Schools A Christian school is one which adheres to Christian teachings. A classical Christian school emphasizes biblical teachings and incorporates a teaching model consisting of three parts: grammar, logic, and rhetoric. Country Day Schools The term country day school conjures up visions of a lovely school setting on the edge of a field or woods somewhere. Thats the idea, and typically this type of educational institution is truly a day school, meaning students dont reside on campus, like at a boarding school.   Special Needs Schools Special needs schools cover a wide range of learning disabilities including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia and other learning syndromes. They have the specially trained and certificated staff necessary to teach children with learning disabilities. These schools can also be therapeutic in nature and can benefit students who have behavioral and discipline issues. Military Schools There are over 35 private military schools in the United States. If your son or daughter dreams of a military career, then you ought to consider these fine schools seriously. Often, military schools carry a stereotype of being schools for students who need stronger discipline, but many of these schools are highly selective in nature, with rigorous academics, high expectations for student performance, and a focus on developing strong leaders. While many military schools are all boys by design, there are some that accept female students. Montessori Schools Montessori schools follow the teachings and philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. They are schools that only serve elementary and middle school students, with the highest grade served being eighth. Some Montessori Schools work with children as young as infants, while the vast majority - 80% to be exact - start with students ages 3-6. The approach to Montessori learning is very student-centric, with students leading the way in learning, and teachers serving more as mentors and guides throughout the process. Its a highly progressive approach, with a lot of hands-on learning. Waldorf Schools Rudolf Steiner invented Waldorf schools. Their style of teaching and the curriculum are unique. Founded in Germany in 1919, the Waldorf schools were originally founded for workers at the Waldorf Astoria Cigarette Company, at the request of the director. Waldorf schools are considered highly teacher directed. A unique aspect of Waldorf Schools is that traditional academic subjects are introduced later in life than other schools, with a strong focus on imaginative activities in the early years.   Religious and Cultural Schools Many parents want their children to be educated in a school where their religious beliefs are a focal point rather than just an add-on. There are plenty of schools to accommodate every religious requirement. These schools may be of any faith, but have the values of the religion at the core of their educational philosophies. While students dont necessarily have to be of the same religion as the school (this may vary from institution to institution) many schools do require a specific course of study related to the faith and culture. Article edited by  Stacy Jagodowski

Exhibits Of Liam Gillick Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Exhibits Of Liam Gillick - Research Paper Example It is the light color wood work in a marvelous way to utilize the maximum space of the hall while maintaining the hall as the best discussion place. Following are the 5 snapshots of the â€Å"installation in the German Pavilion† in diversified angle to visualize the beauty of placement of meeting discussion table and shelves: Colorful discussion bench platforms with a group of reflecting colors on top was a master piece of Gillick, displayed in 2010. Discussion Bench Platform exhibition took 40 days to put forward the marvelous art. Comprising of series of a structure with a well composed top theme with a flat bench, visual and aesthetic sense of the artist is depicted in the light of applied modernism along with the functional beauty of the platform. Benches have aluminum varnishing in powder form which is indeed a pragmatic addition in open minded discussion platform. Following are the five views of the discussion bench platform in diversified angle to visualize the beauty o f placement and color combinations: Liam Gillick is one of his own kinds in its diversifying art structure ranging from graphic design, music, film, sculpture, curatorial project, critical themes to deep writing. A wide variety of evasions, tangents, distractions, and diversions are there in his art work that adds to the beauty of his projects. Instead of focusing on the relational aesthetic and principles of abstraction, Gillick put emphasis on the productive social interaction and the discussed themes portray the same cause in a practical way.

Read an article Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Read an article - Essay Example However, a contradiction in this theory came in the form of Hayek, who believes that it is not a problem of lack of private property, rather; the lack of knowledge that presents a challenge to socialism (Hoppe 143). This paper will examine the author of Socialism: A Property or Knowledge Problem and his line of thought. This is while focusing on what ideas he might offer the audience in terms of the concepts of socialism, and how it might affect them. Hans-Hermann Hoppe chose to discredit Hayek with his theory, saying that it was completely false and ridiculous. In an effort to discredit Hayek and his school of thought, he brings forth arguments to support Mises’s thesis. Mises’s thesis advocates for the presence of private property in land and production factors for there to be proper channels of economic calculation. There being a medium of exchange in the form of money, it would then be possible to calculate and make comparison of the economic situation. Hoppe makes the assumption that Hayek does not have the right arguments to support his thesis about socialism. Hayek purports that socialism and its ultimate flaw is that knowledge about certain circumstances of place and time exist in widely dispersed form, as the personal possession of various individuals (Hoppe 144). Hoppe may have an inclination toward Mises’s school of thought. ... The author, Hoppe, criticizes Hayek by asking a question that would be on the minds of the audience about why clubs, firms, and families exist if his line of thought were to be true. It is Hayek’s belief that a decentralized use of knowledge may lead to the solving of socialism’s ills. In this decentralized use of knowledge, individuals are left to their own devices and can make their decisions (Hoppe 144). To some extent, the above may be true. However, the author tries to explain that when individuals are left to their own decision making abilities, it would be next to impossible to ignore the central plan, as they would not be constrained by the normal things in society. He further claims that if the deciding factor or the solution to socialism’s problems was a decentralized form of thinking, it would be a daunting task to explain why the problems faced by socialism are different from those faced by any other social order. According to Mises and his followers, this line of thought is beside the point. Hoppe points out that it is not the existence of centralized knowledge, or the lack of the use of decentralized knowledge that brings problems to socialism, rather; the absence of property. This ultimately leads to the lack or absence of prices (Hoppe 145). The author claims that Hayek came to realize what Mises had said, but tried to integrate it into his own thesis. This, according to Hoppe, was an elaborate attempt to create a higher and much better theory or line of thinking with regards to the socialism theory, which failed miserably. It is clear from the above that agreeing that socialism’s central or key problem lies in the lack of knowledge. According to the author, private property is the only channel through which information can be transferred.