Cations and Anion Lab Essay

Introduction In this experiment we will be mixing two ionic compounds: potassium chromate and lead nitrate; both are soluble in water. This will be demonstrating a double-replacement reaction/reactions between cations and anions. If a reaction does occur it will form a precipitate due to one of the newly formed compounds not being soluble in water. Once the experiment was completed there was what appears to be a â€Å"solid† substance remaining in the test tube. This shows that a reaction occurred. Procedure 1. Once in the ChemLab-Cations and anion reactions. You will need to obtain a 100mL beaker and 50mL of potassium chromate. This will be done by clicking on the Chemicals section of the toolbar, then selecting 1M Potassium Chromate, change the volume to 50mL, then select to add the Potassium Chromate to a new 100mL beaker. 2. Next, you will need to left click on the beaker, then select Chemicals from the toolbar, select 1M Lead Nitrate, change the volume to 50mL (ensure that the window indicated that it will be placed in the existing beaker. 3. Now you will need to filter the precipitate. Obtain an Erlenmeyer flask and a Buchner funnel. This will be done by selecting from the Equipment section on the toolbar and selecting Erlenmeyer Flask-250mL. Next, right click on the flask and select Buchner Funnel. Right click on the beaker and select Pour/Decant. Move the beaker above the funnel and you will see a white area at the bottom of the flask. 4. Lastly, you will need to record the weight of the precipitate. Right  click on the flask and select Buchner Funnel. A message will appear asking if â€Å"An amount of solid was found present in the filter, what action would you like to take?†, select place solid into 50mL Test Tube. You will now see the Test Tube with the precipitate in the bottom, right click on the Test Tube and click on show weight, the weight of the precipitate will appear, record the weight. Observations and Results There is a small amount of precipitate in the bottom of the test tube that appears yellow in color with some dots in the solution. Weight of filtered precipitate: 16.160g Due to a reaction occurring between the cations and the anions this has caused a reaction, therefore creating a â€Å"solid† that is not water soluble. Discussion When mixing the two ionic compounds: potassium chromate and lead nitrate and then filtering the solution this revealed a â€Å"solid† substance that remained. This substance is not soluble in water hence it was left behind after filtering. This shows that a reaction occurred between the cations and anions. Conclusion This lab represented a double-replacement reaction of the ionic compounds: potassium chromate and lead nitrate. Once these compounds were mixed and then filtered it revealed a â€Å"solid† substance that remained. This confirms that a reaction occurred between the cations and anions, and ultimately formed a new substance.

My trip to the San Diego Museum of Man

A museum is an institution that collects artistic documents, objects and artifacts with scientific and historical value. It is an open to public place that enables people to widely see and explore collections for the purpose of learning, education and enjoyment. Museums preserve collections and make them available for the benefit of public viewing. The San Diego Museum of Man is a museum that contains various artifacts related to anthropology. Anthropology is the study of human kind throughout time and across all cultures. It is the science that deals with the origin, behavior, and also the physical, social and cultural development of human beings. The San Diego Museum of man is a non profit institution that preserves life and history of human kind. The San Diego Museum of Man is definitely a lot more impressive on the inside than the outside. After a long walk from the parking lot, I laid eyes on the old building and did not have high expectations. I merely thought of this as a `class project` something I `had to do`. Once inside I asked the ticket salesman where I could find the museum`s mission statement. He quickly pointed at a wall to the left side of the building, which read: `The museum of man gathers and shares discoveries of anthropologists. Right underneath the mission statement was the first exhibit, the first humans (hominids). Hominids are human like creatures divided into Australopithecus known as the oldest and Homo known as the youngest. I remembered this from chapter one. The museum had an impressive exhibit that allowed for me to see and reinforce all that I had learned about the first humans. I liked the realistic displays that allowed for me to visualize what each hominid actually would have looked like. I liked the exhibit that compared the different tools used throughout time, from the earliest stone tools used by humans compared to those used now. I enjoyed the interactive exhibits. One in particular allowed for me to attempt to guess what group of hominid certain skulls belonged to. I learned that the cheek bones and eye sockets were used to identify. I was also able to try to guess the age of remains. It was very interesting to see and actually get a chance to practice how this is done. The exhibit is unique in such a way that it allows the guest to actually touch almost all of its content. Inside the museum you can see yourself traversing millions of years, it is like you can actually see the way of life and the image of our ancestors. The museum not only offers a view about the past of human kind but its future as well. Visitors can also go through the human lab in which they can see a glimpse of the future of human evolution, the future of human race influenced by scientific innovations in the form of gene selection and cloning. It is like going through different worlds, the past and the future. There was also a small exhibit on the ancient Egyptians whom I always find fascinating. I was able to view the ancient Egyptians way of life and learn the importance of anthropologist and archeologist in the understanding and interpretation of their culture. I was able to see some mummified remains of children which I have never actually seen before. The ancient Egyptians mummified their dead because of their belief that when someone died their soul would temporarily leave the body. After the body was buried, the soul would then return and be reunited with the body. However, the soul needed to find and recognize the body for it to live forever. It is said that the earliest ancient Egyptians buried their dead in the desert letting the heat and dryness of the sand to dehydrate the bodies. This process of burying creates lifelike and natural mummies. Later the Egyptians began to bury their dead in coffins to protect them from the animals of the desert. And then they developed a method of preserving bodies, the process include embalming the bodies and then wrapping them in strips of linen. Today, this process is known as mummification. This mummified remains and other rare artifacts for over 3,000 years old including coffins and amulets show the Egyptians concern for the after life and their value for their dead love ones. I enjoyed the exhibit however I felt it could have been larger. I wanted to learn more about the ancient Egyptians, their culture, society and their religious beliefs, rituals and ceremonies. My favorite exhibit of all was the Mayan exhibit. The society of Maya includes art, astronomy, mathematics and literature. I was fascinated by these people hearing about them in class. It was very intriguing to be able to visualize these people. I learned a lot about Mayan architecture and was amazed by the giant Stella's with Mayan hieroglyphics. I can say that the Mayan architecture if of a unique beauty. The walls are made of mud or stone covered wood poles that hold together  the two sided hay roof. Outside of their internal economic attention, architecture consumed their time and energy so much. I gained more insight into their culture and learned that they had their own form of dance. They had very decorated dress and weapons with feathers and beads. I read and learned that they had what is called `Xibalba` or `the ball game`. It is said that this ball game is a confrontation between good and evil. This ball game has played an important role in the Mayan's culture and sometimes takes the form of sacrifice rituals and sometimes a game of chance. In whatever form, it always symbolizes the timeless struggle between good and evil in which the outcome is governed by supernatural powers, something beyond human skill and capability. This ball game is a vital part of the Mayan creation story and a fable of light defeating darkness and life prevailing over death. I have lived in San Diego for a long time and this was my first trip to the museum. I think the museum did live up to it`s mission statement. It does contain discoveries and artifacts about anthropology that sure is important and really interesting. Visiting the San Diego Museum of Man is really worth the time and effort and the new knowledge is really worth storing in the mind of every visitor. In addition, it does not only provide knowledge and information but enjoyment as well. You will surely be fascinated with all of the exhibits in the San Diego Museum of Man. I would definitely recommend it to others and I plan on going back again in the future. It is one spot that San Diego should be proud of. Works Cited: San Diego Museum of Man. 2006 Retrieved August 8, 2007 from Anthropology . 200). Retrieved August 8, 2007 from Sheldon, J.   2000. Explore Ancient Egypt. Retrieved August 8, 2007 from http://www.mfa.org/egypt/explore%5Fancient%5Fegypt/         

China Economy Essay

The rapid rise of China as a major economic power within a time span of about three decades is often described by analysts as one of the greatest economic success stories in modern times. From 1979 (when economic reforms began) to 2011, China’s real gross domestic product (GDP) grew at an average annual rate of nearly 10%. From 1980 to 2011, real GDP grew 19-fold in real terms, real per capita GDP increased 14-fold, and an estimated 500 million people were raised out of extreme poverty. China is now the world’s second-largest economy and some analysts predict it could become the largest within a few years. Yet, on a per capita basis, China remains a relatively poor country. China’s economic rise has led to a substantial increase in U. S. -China economic ties. According to U. S. trade data, total trade between the two countries surged from $5 billion in 1980 to $503 billion in 2011. China is currently the United States’ second-largest trading partner, its third largest export market, and its largest source of imports. Many U. S. ompanies have extensive operations in China in order to sell their products in the booming Chinese market and to take advantage of lower-cost labor for export-oriented manufacturing. These operations have helped some U. S. firms to remain internationally competitive and have supplied U. S. consumers with a variety of low-cost goods. China’s large-scale purchases of U. S. Treasury securities (which totaled nearly $1. 2 trillion at the end of 2011) have enabled the federal government to fund its budget deficits, which help keep U. S. interest rates relatively low. However, the emergence of China as a major economic superpower has raised concern among many U. S. policymakers. Some claim that China uses unfair trade practices (such as an undervalued currency and subsidies given to domestic producers) to flood U. S. markets with low cost goods, and that such practices threaten American jobs, wages, and living standards. Others contend that China’s growing use of industrial policies to promote and protect certain domestic Chinese industries firms favored by the government, and its failure to take effective action against widespread infringement of U.  S. intellectual property rights (IPR) in China, threaten to undermine the competitiveness of U. S. IP-intensive industries. In addition, while China has become a large and growing market for U. S. exports, critics contend that numerous trade and investment barriers limit opportunities for U. S. firms to sell in China, or force them to set up production facilities in China as the price of doing business there. Other concerns relating to China’s economic growth include its growing demand for energy and raw materials and its emergence as the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gasses. The Chinese government views a growing economy as vital to maintaining social stability. However, China faces a number of major economic challenges which could undermine future growth, including distortive economic policies that have resulted in over-reliance on fixed investment and exports for economic growth (rather than on consumer demand), government support for state-owned firms, a weak banking system, widening income gaps, growing pollution, and the relative lack of the rule of law in China. Many economists warn that such problems could undermine China’s future economic growth. The Chinese government has acknowledged these problems and has pledged to address them by implementing policies to boost consumer spending, expand social safety net coverage, and encourage the development of less-polluting industries. China’s Economy Prior to Reforms Prior to 1979, China, under the leadership of Chairman Mao Zedong, maintained a centrally planned, or command, economy. A large share of the country’s economic output was directed and controlled by the state, which set production goals, controlled prices, and allocated resources throughout most of the economy. During the 1950s, all of China’s individual household farms were collectivized into large communes. To support rapid industrialization, the central government undertook large-scale investments in physical and human capital during the 1960s and 1970s. As a result, by 1978 nearly three-fourths of industrial production was produced by centrally controlled, state-owned enterprises (SOEs), according to centrally planned output targets. Private enterprises and foreign-invested firms were generally barred. A central goal of the Chinese government was to make China’s economy relatively self-sufficient. Foreign trade was generally limited to obtaining only those goods that could not be made or obtained in China. Government policies kept the Chinese economy relatively stagnant and inefficient, mainly because most aspects of the economy were managed and run by the central government (and thus there were few profit incentives for firms, workers, and farmers), competition was virtually nonexistent, foreign trade and investment flows were mainly limited to Soviet bloc countries, and price and production controls caused widespread distortions in the economy. Chinese living standards were substantially lower than those of many other developing countries. The Chinese government in 1978 (shortly after the death of Chairman Mao in 1976) decided to break with its Soviet-style economic policies by gradually reforming the economy according to free market principles and opening up trade and investment with the West, in the hope that this would significantly increase economic growth and raise living standards. As Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping, the architect of China’s economic reforms, put it: â€Å"Black cat, white cat, what does it matter what color the cat is as long as it catches mice? The Introduction of Economic Reforms Beginning in 1979, China launched several economic reforms. The central government initiated price and ownership incentives for farmers, which enabled them to sell a portion of their crops on the free market. In addition, the government established four special economic zones along the coast for the purpose of attract ing foreign investment, boosting exports, and importing high technology products into China. Additional reforms, which followed in stages, sought to decentralize economic policymaking in several sectors, especially trade. Economic control of various enterprises was given to provincial and local governments, which were generally allowed to operate and compete on free market principles, rather than under the direction and guidance of state planning. In addition, citizens were encouraged to start their own businesses. Additional coastal regions and cities were designated as open cities and development zones, which allowed them to experiment with free market reforms and to offer tax and trade incentives to attract foreign investment. In addition, state price controls on a wide range of products were gradually eliminated. Trade liberalization was also a major key to China’s economic success. Removing trade barriers encouraged greater competition and attracted foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. China’s gradual implementation of economic reforms sought to identify which policies produced favorable economic outcomes (and which did not) so that they could be implemented in other parts of the country, a process Deng Xiaoping reportedly referred to as â€Å"crossing the river by touching the stones. † China’s Economic Growth Since Reforms: 1979-2012 Since the introduction of economic reforms, China’s economy has grown substantially faster than during the pre-reform period (see Table 1). According to the Chinese government, from 1953 to 1978, real annual GDP growth was estimated at 6. 7%, although many analysts claim that Chinese economic data during this period are highly questionable because government officials often exaggerated production levels for a variety of political reasons. Agnus Maddison estimates China’s average annual real GDP during this period at 4. %. China’s economy suffered economic downturns during the leadership of Chairman Mao Zedong, including during the Great Leap Forward from 1958 to 1960 (which led to a massive famine and reportedly the deaths of tens of millions of people) and the Cultural Revolution from 1966 to 1976 (which caused political chaos and greatly disrupted the economy). During the reform period (1979-2011), Chinaâ €™s average annual real GDP grew by 9. 9%. This essentially has meant that, on average China has been able to double the size of its economy in real terms every eight years. The global economic slowdown, which began in 2008, impacted the Chinese economy (especially the export sector). China’s real GDP growth fell from 14. 2% in 2007 to 9. 6% in 2008 to 9. 2% in 2009. In response, the Chinese government implemented a large economic stimulus package and an expansive monetary policy. These measures boosted domestic investment and consumption and helped prevent a sharp economic slowdown in China. In 2010, China’s real GDP grew by 10. 4%, and in 2011 it rose by 9. 2%. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects that China’s real GDP will grow by 7. 8% in 2012. From 2013 to 2017, the IMP projects that China’s real GDP growth will average 8. 5%. Table 1- China’s average annual real GDP growth. Causes of China’s Economic Growth Economists generally attribute much of China’s rapid economic growth to two main factors: large-scale capital investment (financed by large domestic savings and foreign investment) and rapid productivity growth. These two factors appear to have gone together hand in hand. Economic reforms led to higher efficiency in the economy, which boosted output and increased resources for additional investment in the economy. China has historically maintained a high rate of savings. When reforms were initiated in 1979, domestic savings as a percentage of GDP stood at 32%. However, most Chinese savings during this period were generated by the profits of SOEs, which were used by the central government for domestic investment. Economic reforms, which included the decentralization of economic production, led to substantial growth in Chinese household savings as well as corporate savings. As a result, China’s gross savings as a percentage of GDP has steadily risen, reaching 53. 9% in 2010 (compared to a U. S. rate of 9. 3%), and is among the highest savings rates in the world. The large level of savings has enabled China to boost domestic investment. In fact, its gross domestic savings levels far exceed its domestic investment levels, meaning that China is a large net global lender. Several economists have concluded that productivity gains (i. e. , increases in efficiency) have been another major factor in China’s rapid economic growth. The improvements to productivity were caused largely by a reallocation of resources to more productive uses, especially in sectors that were formerly heavily controlled by the central government, such as agriculture, trade, and services. For example, agricultural reforms boosted production, freeing workers to pursue employment in the more productive manufacturing sector. China’s decentralization of the economy led to the rise of non-state enterprises (such as private firms), which tended to pursue more productive activities than the centrally controlled SOEs and were more market-oriented, and hence, more efficient. Additionally, a greater share of the economy (mainly the export sector) was exposed to competitive forces. Local and provincial governments were allowed to establish and operate various enterprises on market principles, without interference from the central government. In addition, FDI in China brought with it new technology and processes that boosted efficiency. As indicated in Figure 2, China has achieved high rates of total factor productivity (TFP) growth relative to the United States. TFP represents an estimate of the part of economic output growth not accounted for by the growth in inputs (such as labor and capital), and is often attributed to the effects of technological change and efficiency gains. China experiences faster TFP growth than most developed countries such as the United States because of its ability to access and utilize existing foreign technology and know-how. High TFP growth rates have been a major factor behind China’s rapid economic growth rate. However, as China’s technological development begins to approach that of major developed countries, its level of productivity gains, and thus, real GDP growth, could slow significantly from its historic 10% average, unless China becomes a major center for new technology and innovation and/or implements new comprehensive economic reforms. As indicated in Figure 3, the EIU currently projects that China’s real GDP growth will slow considerably in the years ahead, averaging 7. 0% from 2012 to 2020, and falling to 3. 7% from 2021 to 2030. The Chinese government has indicated its desire to move away from its current economic model of fast growth at any cost to more â€Å"smart† economic growth, which seeks to reduce reliance on energy-intensive and high-polluting industries and rely more on high technology, green energy, and services. China also has indicated it wants to obtain more balanced economic growth. Measuring the Size of China’s Economy The rapid growth of the Chinese economy has led many analysts to speculate if and when China will overtake the United States as the â€Å"world’s largest economic power. † The â€Å"actual† size of China’s economy has been a subject of extensive debate among economists. Measured in U. S. dollars using nominal exchange rates, China’s GDP in 2011 was $7. 2 trillion, less than half the size of the U. S. economy. The per capita GDP (a common measurement of a country’s living standards) of China was $5,460, which was 12% the size of Japan’s level and 11% that of the United States (see Table 2). Many economists contend that using nominal exchange rates to convert Chinese data (or that of other countries) into U. S. dollars fails to reflect the true size of China’s economy and living standards relative to the United States. Nominal exchange rates simply reflect the prices of foreign currencies vis-a-vis the U. S. dollar and such measurements exclude differences in the prices for goods and services across countries. To illustrate, one U. S. dollar exchanged for local currency in China would buy more goods and services there than it would in the United States. This is because prices for goods and services in China are generally lower than they are in the United States. Conversely, prices for goods and services in Japan are generally higher than they are in the United States (and China). Thus, one dollar exchanged for local Japanese currency would buy fewer goods and services there than it would in the United States. Economists attempt to develop estimates of exchange rates based on their actual purchasing power relative to the dollar in order to make more accurate comparisons of economic data across countries, usually referred to as a purchasing power parity (PPP) basis. The PPP exchange rate increases the (estimated) measurement of China’s economy and its per capita GDP. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, (EIU), which utilizes World Bank data, prices for goods and services in China are 41. 5% the level they are in the United States. Adjusting for this price differential raises the value of China’s 2011 GDP from $7. 2 trillion (nominal dollars) to $11. 4 trillion (on a PPP basis). This would indicate that China’s economy is 76. 0% the size of the U. S. economy. China’s share of global GDP on a PPP basis rose from 3. 7% in 1990 to 14. % in 2011 (the U. S. share of global GDP peaked at 24. 3% in 1999 and declined to 18. 9% in 2011); see Figure 4. Many economic analysts predict that on a PPP basis China will soon overtake the United States as the world’s largest economy. EIU, for example, projects this will occur by 2016, and that by 2030, China’s economy could be 30% larger than that of the United St ates. This would not be the first time in history that China was the world’s largest economy (see text box). The PPP measurement also raises China’s 2011 per capita GDP (from $5,460) to $8,650, which was 17. 9% of the U. S. evel. The EIU projects this level will rise to 34. 3% by 2030. Thus, although China will likely become the world’s largest economy in a few years on a PPP basis, it will likely take many years for its living standards to approach U. S. levels. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in China China’s trade and investment reforms and incentives led to a surge in FDI beginning in the early 1990s. Such flows have been a major source of China’s productivity gains and rapid economic and trade growth. There were reportedly 445,244 foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) registered in China in 2010, employing 55. million workers or 15. 9% of the urban workforce. As indicated in Figure 5, FIEs account for a significant share of China’s industrial output. That level rose from 2. 3% in 1990 to a high of 35. 9% in 2003, but fell to 27. 1% by 2010. In addition, FIE’s are responsible for a significant level of China’s foreign trade. In 2011, FIEs in China accounted for 52. 4% of China’s exports and 49. 6% of its imports, although this level was down from its peak in 2006 when FIEs’ share of Chinese exports and imports was 58. 2% and 59. 7%, respectively, as indicated in Figure 6. FIEs in China dominate China’s high technology exports. From 2002 to 2010, the share of China’s high tech exports by FIEs rose from 79% to 82%. During the same period, the share of China’s high tech exports by wholly owned foreign firms (which excludes foreign joint ventures with Chinese firms) rose from 55% to 67%. According to the Chinese government, annual FDI inflows into China grew from $2 billion in 1985 to $108 billion in 2008. Due to the effects of the global economic slowdown, FDI flows to China fell by 12. 2% to $90 billion in 2009. They totaled $106 billion in 2010 and $116 billion in 2011 (see Figure 7). Chinese data for January-October 2012 indicate that FDI fell by 3. 5% on a year-on-year basis; FDI into China will likely total around $112. 1 billion for the full year. Hong Kong was reported as the largest source of FDI flows to China in 2011 (63. 9% of total), followed by Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, and the United States. The cumulative level (or stock) of FDI in China at the end of 2011 is estimated at $1. 2 trillion, making it one of the world’s largest destinations of FDI. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, China was the world’s second-largest destination for FDI flows in 2011, after the United States (see Figure 8). The largest sources of cumulative FDI in China for 1979-2011 were Hong Kong (43. 5% of total), the British Virgin Islands, Japan, the United States, and Taiwan (see Table 3). According to Chinese data, annual U. S. FDI flows to China peaked at $5. 4 billion in 2002 (10. 2% of total FDI in China). In 2011, they were $3. 0 billion or 2. 6% of total FDI (see Figure 9). From January to October 2012, U. S. FDI in China rose by 3. 8% (year-on-year).

Rights and potential liabilities of parties Coursework

Rights and potential liabilities of parties - Coursework Example When the goods were loaded from Bristol, Oriental Shipping Limited had to sign the bills of landing. They agreed in the bill that, the goods were in good order but one case was missing. Instead of recording the date as it was, that is 15th August; they recorded the date to be 10th of August. Supreme Coffee Limited obtained an insurance policy for the voyage with Commodity Insurance which incorporated the Institute Cargo Clauses (B). Again, incorrect statement was recorded. They recorded the cost of the cargo as 50,000 pounds instead of 30,000 pounds. This means that the insurance policy was taken out of 50,000 pounds instead of 30,000 pounds. This is over writing of the insurable goods. In this case, it is quit clear that Supreme Coffee Limited obtained an insurance policy with Commodity Insurance. The insurance policy was to cover against any risk of the shipment. Article 1.2.2 of Institute Cargo Clauses (B) provides cover against damage or loss of goods transported caused by washin g overboard or jettison1. Article 1.2.3 provides insurance cover against damage or loss of the subject matter insured caused by entry of river, sea or sea water, into the vessel craft, place of storage or hold conveyance. In addition, Article 1.3 provides insurance cover against total loss of any package whether lost overboard, when unloading from or loading to, craft or vessel2. However, Article 4 provides some exclusion to the insured. According to Article 4.1, insurance policy will not cover against expense or damage brought by willful misconduct of the insured3. Analysis of the case The coffee cases which were taken to the dock were in good condition. When they were taken from the factory by Supreme Coffee Limited, none of them was wet or damaged. It is true to say so because Oriental Shipping Limited confirmed it. Although Oriental Shipping limited was not keen on safety of the coffee cases, it cannot be noted that the cause of damp was caused by spraying of water at the dock. There is no evidence to support this because the fault was not detected when the cases were loaded on to the ship. However, if only part of the cargo was damaged and not all, it will be difficult for the insurance company to be held accountable4. This case is similar to Nelson Marketing International versus Royal Sun Alliance Company of Canada case which took place in year 2006. In the case, the cargo was LTF (Laminated Truck Flooring) and it was moving from Malaysia to California. The cargo was damaged but the main cause was not known. It was no clear whether it was damaged due to moisture inherent or improper care in the laminated truck flooring. The ruling was finally made after 94 days of trial in the Lower Court where a decision of 92 pages was given5. According to the insurer, the exclusion of willful mischief of the insured was applicable. On the other hand, the owner of the cargo complained of the carrier’s negligence in handling and care of the cargo. According to th e court, the damages were not caused by the carrier’s negligence. It was caused by heat in the feeder vessels at voyage time and therefore, the insurer was held responsible. However, in the Court Of Appeals, the decision of the judge was reverse. The court argued that, with the nature of LTF, the damage was bound or certain to happen. The temperatures in the feeder vessels were normal and were expected6. In this case, it is evident and logical to say that, the damage of the cargo was not

Research Topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Research Topic - Essay Example Is it reasonable to allow technology to decide whether or not a particular race has the right to live and procreate? Thinking of it from a layman’s perspective, it appears that all of this is unfair. A couple has full right to decide whether or not it wants children, an individual has every right to be employed as long as his or her talents fit the eligibility for employment, a particular race has every right to inhabit the earth as do other races. Simple! Problems arise when these questions are answered from the perspective of an expert geneticist. He or she would think that a couple at risk of giving birth to a child with an untreatable disease should not bear children. A race with a recessive trait for a deadly disease should be monitored and the mating habits of its members should be modulated to avoid the multiplication of individuals with disease traits. This reasoning does not sound unfair at all! The problems become more complicated when these questions are answered fr om the perspective of a biased individual, especially one who has the power to influence or even make public policies, who may use such excuses to further his own selfish motives such as the discrimination against a particular race. It is at this threshold that technology takes an ugly turn. Genetic screening and its incorporation in public policy is a matter of widespread debate. Some of the ethical issues and controversies associated with this beneficial yet controversial biotechnological application are discussed here. The paper will introduce the technology of genetic screening, its implications and associated public policies. It will then discuss the ethical issues associated with the incorporation of this technology is public policy. The subject of ethics regarding genetic screening as public policy is vast and it is impossible to draft an exhaustive compilation, no matter how big. However, an attempt has been made here to review some of the most sensitive issues on the matter . 2. Genetic Screening – The Technology and Its Implications Consequent to the completion of the Human Genome Project and advances in the field of genetics, researchers have been successful in identifying genes related to diseases. Diagnostic tests have also been developed to detect such genes. These developments have seeded the â€Å"idea† that if genetic testing is done, it will be possible for healthy people to prevent future incidence of disease (Holtzmann and Shapiro, 1998). 2.1. Introduction to Genetic Screening and Genetic Testing Genetic testing is the process of detecting mutations in chromosomes and DNA (â€Å"Genetic Testing†, 2006). Laboratory analysis of human DNA is performed after isolating it from blood, amniotic fluid and cells in order to predict the risk of a disease, diagnose a specific genetic disease or identify if an individual is carrying a genetic disease. In addition to identifying alterations from DNA, molecular probes and functional b iochemical tests are also used to identify defective genes and proteins. This technology has been existent for almost half a century (Rodriguez, 2011). The earliest known application of this technology was for the identification of phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disease caused by an inborn error in the metabolism, causing the buildup of amino acid in the blood subsequently leading to impaired mental function (Rodriguez, 2011). The application of this technology later on extended to the detection of sickle cell anemia,

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

Isaiah - Essay Example To illustrate, Isaiah is the outstanding proponent of justice we find in the Old Testament. What makes Isaiah different from others is his exceeding concern on political issues of Judea. He is the sole individual who advises the kings to rely on God’s infallible justice instead of seeking assistance from Assyria or Egypt in order to encounter the invaders. He interprets all foreign invasions as Yahweh’s interference that persuades his people to repent. According to him, sufferings and injustice will not prevail, instead only the eternal justice will sustain ultimately. He also condemned all sorts of social injustice like oppression of widows and orphans (Isaiah 1: 11-17), corruption and bribery (5:23), and disposition of the poor (5: 8-10). There was not even a single area of political or spiritual significance that he left out. He observed the pertaining discrepancy between actual religious beliefs and practices. â€Å"Is that what you call fasting; a day acceptable t o Yahweh?† (58:5) (cited in Gray, 2006, p.73). He convinced them of the fallacy of performing rituals with little understanding of the real virtue of justice. For instance, he asks, â€Å"What need have I of your sacrifices, says the lord, put your evil deeds away from my sight† (1:11). While comparing with other prophets, Isaiah can be called a political prophet for he had a key role in the political events of Judea between 740-681 BC. Amos and Jeremiah also focus on the injustice prevailing among the aristocrats whom they found greedy and unreasonably exploiting the poor. Jeremiah reminds them to be loyal to Yahweh otherwise inevitable punishment would come upon them as part of the divine justice (Jer: 1, 2). Jeremiah also predicts the Babylonian captivity which they would undergo to compensate their injustice (Jer: 27). The major injustice the prophets like Jeremiah, Amos and Josiah find with Israel was their

A Short Paper on the Inside the Solar System Essay

A Short Paper on the Inside the Solar System - Essay Example It will focus on Karl Tate’s article on the solar system, presented in 2011 at space.com. The solar system comprises of eight planets and five dwarf planets. This is according to a valid astronomers count (Tate, 2011). Some of the terrestrial planets include Mars, Neptune and the inner planets also called the Jovian planets. Dwarf planets are small in size. The sun is the closest planet to planet earth and the largest object in the solar system. The sun is orbited by eight planets. Meteors and meteoroids are strip of lights commonly referred to as falling or shooting stars although they are not stars. They consist of small pieces of rocks or metals that come from space into the sky and move at a remarkably high speed. Comets are larger than meteors. They move at a much lower rate and have tails. Comets consist of mostly ice and rocks. Asteroids are small rocky objects with round or irregular shapes (Tate, 2011). In conclusion, the publication shows the beauty and the science behind what is observed from time to time in the

Mergers & Acquisitions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Mergers & Acquisitions - Essay Example â€Å"Mergers and acquisitions represent the ultimate in change for a business No other event is more difficult, challenging, or chaotic as a merger and acquisition. It is imperative that everyone involved in the process has a clear understanding of how the process works†. Since the past decade, the globalisation of the businesses across the globe has initiated a search for the competitive advantage, worldwide. With the increased competition to fetch the customer satisfaction in a cost effective way, the companies have responded to the pressure of attaining scale in a quickly consolidating global economy. In addition to some other trends, such as privatisation, deregulation and corporate restructuring, globalisation has encouraged an unparalleled surge in the cross-border merger and the acquisition activities.Cross-border consolidation activities are a significant component of global business operations.This report will look into the mergers and acquisitions of companies in th e light of current issues. For better understanding, the analysis would be done in the light of relevant theories and applications with the mention of specific examples in the arena of merger and acquisitions. Through ‘merger’, two companies would join together to create a new company.Acquisition refers to one company taking over the assets of another company. Merger and acquisition can be of three types: Horizontal, Vertical and Conglomerate. In horizontal mergers and acquisitions, two firms, involved, deal across similar products and services. This type of mergers and acquisitions is frequently used as the mean for an organisation to enhance the market share through getting into merger with a competing firm or by acquiring the same. For an instance, consolidation among Mobil and Exxon would allow these companies to attain a large chunk of share in the oil and gas market. Vertical mergers and acquisitions happen when two organisations are merged through the value-chain , such as any manufacturer firm merging with one supplier or a manufacturer acquiring its supplier firm. Vertical consolidation processes are mostly used as significant mean to gain the competitive advantage in the respective marketplace by leveraging on the value chain. For an instance, Merck, a leading pharmaceuticals manufacturer, merged with the leading pharmaceuticals distributor, Medco. This was done to fetch the benefits in products distribution. Consolidations are conglomerate when two firms from entirely dissimilar industries merge. For an instance, a gas pipeline organisation merging with high technology organisation or acquiring the same can be seemed as a conglomerate merger. Conglomerates are mostly used as significant mean to smooth out broad fluctuations in the revenue amount and offer more constancy in the growth in long-term. Typically, organisations in the mature industries which have poor growth prospects would seek to broaden their businesses horizons through mer gers and acquisitions. For an instance, General Electric has diversified its business through merger and acquisition activities. GE has got into new segments like television broadcasting and financial services through a number of mergers and acquisitions of the financial services and entertainment organisations. Mergers and Acquisitions in United Kingdom United Kingdom has been the host of a number of mergers and acquisitions. The value of UK domestic acquisitions in the third quarter, 2010, amounted to ?2.6 billion which is slightly up

FinalTake-Home Exam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

FinalTake-Home Exam - Essay Example This urban phenomenon is actually the effect of the larger American policies of relating the nation’s economic structure with the global economy. In the decades following the 1970s, huge corporate owners and multimillionaires have encouraged the fall of â€Å"Fordist-Keynesian model of accumulation† and have witnessed the growth of â€Å"neoliberal-globalization† model (Arena, 2012, p.xx). In order to cope with increasing globalization, the ultra rich class has used the tactics of stripping the urban areas of poverty and low-income classes. The idea was to shift the base of production to low wage areas in the south of the U.S. In these areas, business activities are not dictated by labor unions and also there are close ties between state and local governments. Thus, the brunt of gentrification has been endured by the worker class since wages have declined sharply. On the other hand, the benefits fell on the affluent population of American cities. Gentrification h as essentially hindered the growth of production center as the focus was on expanding the service sector. During the second half of the twentieth century, the industrial areas of American cities were transformed into centers of urban amenities like hotels, restaurants, malls and so on. Thus, wealth began to get accumulated in the hands of the ultra rich making them even richer at the expense of poorer urban community. The author has explored the political struggles in New Orleans that occurred as a result of privatization of public housing. From 1960s onwards the U.S. federal government played a vital role for providing housing provisions at affordable rents, and for this the government promoted strategies that encourage financial sponsorship of the private owners of rental housing sectors. Contrary to the properties that are publicly owned, houses that are constructed solely for the purpose of providing housing at affordable rents were construction by support from federal programs like Low Income Housing Tax Credit launched in 1986, and home funds from National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 (Arena, 2012, p.4). Such subsidization of private housing has been supported by the political opponents since it was an appropriate process for delivery low rent housing provisions. It has been claimed that historically U.S. government has failed to provide quality public services at low price because of inefficient bureaucracies. Failure of the government encouraged private sectors to enter public service sector in order to provide quality services at affordable prices. This also enhanced the financial interest of the private sectors. The two housing projects, St. Thomas and Iberville were identified as lucrative areas by political and economic elites, especially the areas inhabited by the African American community. The area surrounding St. Thomas which was predominated by the Blacks was particularly regarded as a hindrance to tourism. The idea was to evict this communi ty in order to transform the cities’ factories, warehouses and low income housing to promote tourism. Struggle ensued when the responsibility of removing the Blacks fell on the black political elite. In the year 1986, two black candidates participated in the mayoral race. William Jefferson who was an Angle- African American became the mayor that year. The losing candidate, Sidney Barthelemy befriended the low

Technology and Innovation Essay Example for Free

Technology and Innovation Essay According to Sakiki Fukada-Parr the prominent author of a UNDP report on technology and development suggests, electronic communications help make societies less hierarchical. He quotes no one can see the cut of your suit, and no secretary blocks your path to the ministers office. Junior employees who would never have dared knock on a chief executives door might send him an idea electronically. (The Economist (US), Nov 10, 2001) Cetron Davies, [2001]) believes businesses have come to rely on technology for increased production efficiency and more appropriate communication operations. Competition is mounting in the business world and organisations must take advantage of the latest technology in order to improve their business functions. Organisations must change the way they act, think and operate internally as their work environment becomes more technologically advanced. All businesses across the world have sufficient communications tools that make global management much easier. Devices such as e-mail, fax machines and satellite communication are all tools that enable managers to communicate at an extremely high pace. (Heiko [1989]) suggests that technology implementation will be heavily influenced by cultural factors, such as technological advances between foreign operations. He observed that Just-In-Time approach of inventory management has been favourably received in Japan, leading to considerable savings. However, this is not the case in other countries and believes this is down to unique cultural conditions in Japan such as concern for space, and a deep group oriented devotion to duty, all of which match the requirements of (JIT ) techniques. In conclusion (Heiko [1989]) states that the Japanese culture can provide a environment where JIT techniques can expand and develop. (Klien and Ralls, 1995) adds that the more complexity facing an organisation, concerning culture, the less willing the orgainisation is to implement technology on a wider basis. This may lead to greater opportunity costs by not adopting the latest techniques across various units, for fear that the results are uneven. Although global firms can benefit from global efficiencies, it is not always appropriate where technology is concerned. Nike for instance has a plant in Indonesia where labour costs are low and have access to better distribution channels and production costs are also low. (Samli, [1985]) argues that although there are benefits, consideration has to be given to the fact that labour skills are extremely low and training of employees will have to occur in order for them to do their job. On the other hand (Dougherty [1995]) suggests that the exchange of technology across national borders is essential. Ford not only transfers technology to foreign countries but also tries to learn from locals. The exchange of expertise and information among people from around the world assists in broadening perspectives and also assists research and development in transferring information between divisions successfully. This increases the key mass in RD so that organisations are able to attract better people. Innovation enables organisation to improve the quality of their output, enter new markets, try out new technologies and develop alternative applications for existing product categories. For organisations must adapt to changing competition, markets, and technologies.(Dougherty [1996]) (Venkatraman, MacMillian and McGrath, [1992]; Shane [1995]) suggest that innovation within global organisations may be hampered by cultural barriers. It is important not to block innovation by organisational rules or routines. Based on findings from Hofstedes cultural indices they suggest that cultural barriers may slow down transfer from one unit to another in a multinational organisation (Cox,[1991] argues that using cultural heterogeneity leads to greater innovation and more efficient marketing strategies for the different types of customers worldwide. He also suggests that because employees come from different backgrounds different perspectives are achieved, therefore creating improvements. (Mejia Palich, [1997]) also argue that heterogeneous teams function better than homogenous ones because of cultural differences learning experiences. On the other hand (Keller and Chinta [1990]; Snodgrass and Sekaran [1989]) argue that expertise and technical know-how are more difficult to develop when differences in cultural backgrounds exist. They state that this plays a major role in the transfer of technology between business units. [Empirical research by Davidson and McFetridge [1985]) also supports this belief that cultural relatedness enhances the flow of technological know how and the sharing among business units of a global organisation. MARKETING According to (Barlett [1996]; Beamish, Killing, Lecraw and Morrison [1994]) they are all in agreement that distinct consumer preferences will emerge due to cultural differences. This is expected to lead to the requirement of customisation of the marketing mix and product strategies. This suggests that production in one country may not suit production in another. High Uncertainty Avoidance Countries like to buy reliable, predictable goods. In addition to this, although there are divisions (Takeuchei Porter 1986) believe culturally related countries such as (America Canada) can more successfully share market activities and knowledge than those in culturally unrelated countries such as (America India). With the capacity to cross-sell products in culturally related markets, which reduces information gathering expenses and the uncertainty linked with targeting markets that are totally unrelated. Culturally related countries may find it beneficial to share knowledge regarding market research, sales forces service networks, distribution and advertising, therefore lowering costs. However, (Alder, P [1987]) argues that this kind of sharing is a lot more demanding, suggesting that the differences are not just language but that it is a matter of values, mind set and market reactions Take for instance the advertising campaign concerning the Marlboro Man. This campaign suited America as society is seen as individualist according to (Hofstede 1984). On the other hand, this campaign was a failure in Columbia because society is seen as Collectivist This now leads on the issue of marketing standardisation. This issue has been defined by (Banerjee, [1994]} as the determination of common communication objectives and budget whereas (Wills Ryan, [1997]) includes in there definition creative and media decisions involving the whole corporation. The issues of marketing standardisation and global marketing have usually been considered in terms of the reliability of the marketing mix elements for a company that enters numerous international markets. Since the 1960s, standardisation of international marketing strategy has been the focus of many studies (Elinder, [1961]; Buzzell, 1968; Jain, [1989]), It is still unclear however, whether it is done for the savings linked with standardisation or for the maximisation of the firms products, but the underlying principle of standardisation is to maintain a global image. Rau Preble, [1987] has carried out considerable research on this topic. Multinational Corporations are faced with difficulties when deciding standardisation of advertising across different countries. (Boddewyn, [1991]; Jain, [1989]). According to (Solberg, [2000]) there are two important organisational factors that relate to the degree of standardisation in international markets. Firstly, market knowledge at the level of headquarters (HQ) of local market conditions and secondly HQs control of subsidiaries i.e. (Influence on their marketing decisions). In addition (Martenson, [1987]; Rau Preble, [1987]; Tai Wong, [1998] suggested that MNCs needed to have a certain degree of control over their subsidiaries in order to implement decisions. (Hite Frazer, [1998]) state that, MNCs with a well-known and global image i.e. (Coca cola) tend to apply more control over their subsidiaries in order to maintain the image of the corporation or product (Hill James, [1990]) especially if perceptions of consumers are similar across countries. (Britt, [1974], Jain, [1989]). However, in the case of Matsushita in the electronic industry this was not the case as each subsidiary had a separate identity, which resulted in major success. This then leads on to market development. (Jain, [1989]; Duncan Ramaprasad, [1995]) suggest if similar levels of market development are achieved in both home and host countries marketing standardisation would favour MNCs. However, this would depend on the competitive positions in home and host countries of the MNC. Higher degrees of marketing standardisation may be adapted (Jain, [1989]; Henzler Rall, [1986]) if similarities prevailed in the competitive context that would allow HQs to make easier decisio ns regarding competition and to enhance control over the subsidiary and to adopt more beneficial standardisation strategies. (Doz and Prahalad, [1984] Michell Bright, [1995]). STAFFING AND TRAINING As multinational firms globalise they must learn to co-ordinate efforts among an increasingly culturally diverse workforce and environment. Nowadays people tend to be very defensive of their cultural identity and caution by others has to be taken so that insult is not caused. Through the years success of Japanese organisations global strategies has encouraged American firms. Although many point out the advantages, cultural diversity may leads to conflict, misunderstanding and lack of cohesion. Organisations are becoming more alert of the importance of diversity to their business activities and acknowledge that by recruiting, promoting and training a diverse range of individuals in the long-term are a major asset to the organisation in reaching out to their customers. (Tung, [1993]) states that cross cultural training process, helps in the development of building relations between individuals or groups, especially individuals/groups with diverse cultural backgrounds. (Welch [1998]) defines cultural training as any form of guided experience helping people to live and work more contentedly in another culture. Such training encourages understanding about differences and acceptance of the multicultural work environment and helps create and retain effective work teams and expertise in dealing with multicultural management (Hartenian, [2000]) describes the multi-cultural workforce as a workforce that excludes no one, from top-level management to low-level employees. He sees the multi-cultural workforce has one of the main opportunities for an organisation. Take for instance the IBM perspective. IBM have established research labs around the world because the issue of a globally diverse workforce is of the highest importance. This in turn allows the organisaton to gather ideas from people who experience different economies and cultures Although multi-cultural workforces are beneficial to organisations in relation to performance and profitability, they can be very hard to manage. According to (Hill, [92]) the key to managing multi-cultural workforces is the realisation that majority and minority cultures do not always share experiences. To solve this managers can adapt different strategies such as: developing programmes that promote awareness of different cultures, recognise common links among different ethnic groups and express concerns and confusions. (Hill [1992]) believes that if organisations use these strategies, economic benefits will be reaped. This may be easier said than done, (Harisis Kleiner, [1993]) argue that the implementation of such workforces are extremely difficult. They say that not only within American society and businesses but on a world wide scale there are widespread barriers. Such barriers include unwritten rules and double standards for success which are often unknown to women and minorit ies, stereotypes and their associated assumptions and lack of communication about differences. In global organisations it is essential that effective cross cultural training occurs in order to help individuals obtain both the knowledge and the tools needed to reduce misunderstandings and improper actions (Black Mendenhall [1990]) suggest that multi-cultural training provides individuals with greater self confidence and decreased narrow-mindedness about people from diverse cultures. In addition (Barlett and Ghoshal [1990]) also pointed out that establishing a multicultural training programme improved the companys ability to operate more efficiently in different cultural environments. Although many multicultural training programmes are undertaken to enhance cultural diversity they are not always successful. According to (Woods [1992]) a systematic approach should be taken towards training. (Woods [1992]) established a four step cycle: Firstly was to specify certain job task of individuals and assess the needs of the corporate culture. Secondly is the identification of training objectives. Thirdly was the establishment of the proper training content in which the following was used; sensitivity training, cultural awareness and orientation programs. In addition (Cox, [1993]; Gamio Sneed, [1992]; Tung, [1993]) introduced the communication competency program. In the final stage (Milkovich Boudreau [1991]) stated that training programs need to verify whether the training is successful in junior members of staffs performances at work. The cycle used was concerned with the effectiveness of the training, however, (Mendenhall Oddou [1986[ Tung [1981]) found factors that deterred individuals. These included lack of specialised trainers, cost and perceived lack of usefulness. Research carried out by (Gamio Sneed [1992]) found that the deterrence factors are of major importance. Take for instance the catering industry. Mangers in restaurants may blame high staff turnover rates on lack of multi-cultural training, therefore using these rates as the reason to ignore the need for training programs. (Jackson [1991]) believes that heterogeneity among team members contributes to high turnover rates within organisations. Researchers may find that the relationship between cultural diversity and staff turnover is of major importance to all organisations. According to (Kossek Lobel [1996]) the topic of diversity has raised considerable attention over the past decade and is a must for all businesses. In todays business world global leadership is critical not only for global strategies but for ensuring cultural diversity, which involves in depth knowledge from business ethics to cultural motivatiors. Organisations are going global because of slow growth in domestic markets and to capitalise on areas such as marketing, research and development, training, technology, production and many more factors. Organisation are fast realising the importance of diversity. Cultural diversity is the idea that cultural identities should not be ignored but in contrast be maintained and respected. The literature which is going to be presented in this paper will examine four main issues. In my opinion these issues are of major importance for global firms. The first issue is the strategies which global firms adapt follw . Secondly, the concept of Technology and Innovation. This section will in detail provide literature from researchers who believe global firms benefit from cultural diversity in this field. It will examine how technology is changing the business world. Thirdly, the marketing issue. This section will provide relevant literature on how global firms can benefit in relation to standardisation of marketing and how advertising campaigns are perceived by different countries. Lastly, the concept of Staffing and Training. This in my view is one of the most important issues. Global organisations can have all the capital in the world but with out the correct leadership and staff, failure is certain. This topic will in detail will put forward the notion of cross-cultural training and will examine whether or not this is a good idea for global organisations. All the topics mentioned above will have cases for and against by the relevant researchers in each field. I feel this is necessary in order to establish a good understanding of the literature review I am conducting. According to (Tallman Jiatao [1996]) diversity has gone from being a moral/legal issue are both into a business necessity.

The Post-Implementation Review

The Post-Implementation Review HARWANT SINGH FINALISE AND REVIEW PROJECT The purpose of this phase is to ensure that benefits will be realized; assess whether the project objectives have been met; ensure that lessons from the project are recorded and communicated for future use; and the project is closed down with documents archived and appropriate communications sent. The Post-Implementation Review is a key component of the Projects Finalization stage. It should take place within 4 to 6 weeks of the projects end. However, it can also be held for the end of a Project Stage, or during a Project as a health-check. Feedback on delivery of the project should be used to help future projects. Valuable learning points should be recorded and shared within the organization. The PIR should primarily focus on the performance of the project against its objectives; and the management of the project against the agreed project management methodology. There are 2 key documents in the Finalization phase: Post-Implementation Review Project Closure Report As you perform the post-implementation review, certain methods and practices will help you obtain the best possible information: Define the scope of the review beforehand -The last thing you want to do is to create a political problem. Given the number of people often involved in a project, its easy to hurt someones feelings when reviewing the projects success. Clarify your objectives for the review, and make your intentions clear this will better ensure that people share their experiences openly and honestly. Then make absolutely sure that you stick to these intentions, and that peoples egos arent unnecessarily bruised by the process! Review key documents Gather together the key project documents. This will help you assess the project planning process, as well as the actual benefits achieved through the project. Consider using independent reviewers Where possible, use outside people in your review process to get an objective, unclouded view of the project. Some people recommend using only independent people in the review, however, you can learn a lot from the perspectives of those who were directly involved in the project this is why the best strategy is probably to have a balance. Use appropriate data collection Collect information in the most appropriate way, for example, by using interviews and surveys. Also, test the deliverable yourself; to make sure you get firsthand information. Deliver appropriate reports Report your findings, and publicize the results. Remember that the PIR is designed to help project managers conduct more effective projects in the future, as well as to measure and optimize the benefits of the specific project being reviewed. Present recommendations Present the detailed recommendations to the organization and the project leaders, as well as to customers and other stakeholders. Include as many people as necessary so that you keep and apply the best-practice information in the future. Manage the Implementation Process Irrespective of the size and scope of a specific project, it must be managed in a professional manner, following the processes outlined in the Project Plan. Monitor the Supplier / Service Providers performance by: Confirming the supply of all deliverables. Confirming that the Supplier is meeting agreed targets in terms of project cost and timescale. During the project implementation, if deficiencies are noted in the project deliverables, be prepared to stop the works. Some deficiencies may warrant action against the supplier. During the course of a project, it may be necessary to change the scope of the project, or a deliverable within the project. It is essential that such changes are agreed to, and signed off on by the client. Use the Change Request Form to document and sign off on the change action. Maintain the ongoing Project Status Record and provide Project Status Reports on a regular basis to management. Project closure statement Title Best suits Purpose Project Review Evaluation Report Large or complex projects A useful tool to assist a Project Sponsor and/or Steering Committee to: determine if the appropriate project management framework has been selected and appropriately applied enabling any deficiencies to be remedied provide validation of a decision to stop the project make an informed decision about closing the project and capturing the lessons learnt FINALISING THE PROJECT Evaluate and Test Project for Acceptance Once the project works have been completed, a program of evaluating / testing must be carried out as defined in the Project Plan. Providing the test results prove satisfactory, the project can be accepted. The acceptance procedure will have been defined in the Project Plan. Advice Acceptance- In the advice acceptance we have to look further about the advice of workers lower management and as well as upper management. Than we needs to take decision according to advices of colleagues of a management and than we run up the finalising of project in statement. Establish Final Project Costs- In this we have to look up the finance of our business than we needs to finalise the project costs. The project costs its the main needs of run up the business so we have concerned with the financial management to look up the further decision and than makes the decision of costs according to our profit budget. Facilitate Project Sign-Off Provide a report to management showing: Results of Acceptance Evaluation / Auditing /Testing Final Costs of the Project That all risk issues have been completely met and no longer offer a threat to the project RISK ISSUES AND MANGING As soon as project issues are identified, they should be documented. Once documented, a plan of action must be defined by the project team and approved to deal with the issue. The action required to resolve the issue may result in a change of scope or requirements, so that needs to be defined, negotiated and approved. Once the action has been agreed upon, it should be implemented as soon as possible to get the project back on track and the outcome should be documented. Often times there are multiple issues happening at the same time so the action plans need to take this into account so as to not impact the actions related to other issues. Managing Project Risks Similar to issues, the project manager must identify and document project risks as early as possible. It is best to identify potential risks at the beginning of the project that can have a large impact on the project. Once risks are identified, it is important to engage the entire project team to come up with ways to deal with project risks. The risks must also be assessed quantitatively in terms of their probability and impact. This assessment can also include an estimate of cost that the risk may incur to the project. Risks can then be prioritized so that the team can determine which the most important risks to mitigate first are. The final step is to determine the method for handling each project risk to best control the impact to the project, and then to take action based on the risk management plan. Tracking Issues and Risks Tracking project issues and risks can be done in a variety of methods. They can be tracked on paper, or using a spreadsheet, or using more sophisticated project management software. Our product provides the ability to track Issues and Risks and generate reports including Issue Logs and Risk Logs. By using online project management software to track project risks and issues, your entire project team can be provided with visibility into the project risks and issues at any time. Review Project Outcome Forward Completion Report to Management The Project Completion Report calls for a review of the project outcomes in terms of: Objectives Met Risk Management Issues Project Costs Project Time Scale Variations Stakeholders Expectations

Creating a Robot to Tie a Knot with Lego Mindstorm :: Robotics

Abstract The point of building this robot was to have it successfully complete and tie a knot. The original idea was to have the robot tie knots creating a bracelet. Unfortunately, the process of tying a knot alone was too much work to try and move on to an entire bracelet. I had neither the time nor the insight to build a flexible and usable 'arm.' I tested and modified a design from the Lego Mindstorms book, but found that I could neither open nor close the hand. I continued to further modify the design to be able to grab and let go of string but the result was extremely bulky. Also I could not find a plausible and spaceconstrained way to attach the gears to each of the 'fingers.' The conclusion that I drew was not that the project was impossible but that it needed more time and research. Background The idea for a robot that could neatly and efficiently create a knotted bracelet became a reality after my own experiences of personal pain and triumphs over its creational process. Although the design is merely knotting in a line some people have neither the patience or ability to complete such a simple masterpiece. This is when the idea for a bracelet making robot was first manifested. It is being brought to life for all those who can't or don't want to make one themselves, hence, a robot to do it for them! Unfortunately, two weeks is not enough to make a full blown bracelet making robot. Instead my attempt will be to make a robot that can successfully tie a knot around a string. Which with more time would eventually lead to an entire knotted bracelet. The textile industry has prospered greatly since the age of industry and invention. Cotton, silk, and various other materials are processed and transformed into beautiful fabrics and cloths which soon become clothes and accessories. The flying shuttle was brought to factories in 1733 by the inventor John Kay, improving looms to enable weavers to get their work done even faster. Soon after there came the spinning jenny, and the water frame which became the first powered machine. To be or Knot to be? 3 The inventions kept spewing forth until at last the modern textile machine was born. Most of these are run by computer with nowhere near the machinery. This minimizes injury and ups the efficiency of production. While my robot won't be the next big factory design, it will make a simple but overly complicated knot for a robot. In future years at COSMOS in the robotics cluster, perhaps someone will see my design and continue it, until it completely finishes an entire

Exemplification Essay: The Need to Improve the Apathetic Attitude of Yo

Are young people in today's society enamored with themselves? Do they care about others? Are they unfeeling; show little or no interest or emotion; unresponsive, indifferent; passionless or void of feeling? What is the cause or reason for apathy in young folks today that wasn't there a hundred years ago? Quite possibly it is a lack of mental stimulation. As responsible citizens of the United States, we should decide to not put up with indifference but encourage young people to get involved in their communities and to be concerned about what is going on in the government and around the world. We must not encourage the apathetic attitude that is creeping in on our young people today because our nation will end up with a population that has opinions but won't speak up and make a difference for what they believe in. An example of a current crisis is the majority of young adults, nationwide, who couldn't care less about who represents them on any level (Reflector). Although the majority of young Americans have particular views on nearly every issue at hand, they are becoming increasingly apathetic when it boils down to going to the polls and voting. This apathy may be due, in part, to the fact that a number of students think politicians seldom listen to their ideas and opinions. Because they feel ignored, some students are reluctant to vote, and although they may not realize it, their lack of concern is actually affecting politics itself. According to Alex Cole, founder of Democracy Matters, in the 2000 presidential election, less than 18% of the country's 18-24 year olds voted. Maybe a childhood filled with entertaining electronic devices has made them politically apathetic. But maybe they vote less because they don't see the po... ...different adults who only care about themselves. Parents, intellectually stimulate your children by teaching them life skills, by going on field trips, sending them outside to play, and spending quality family time together. Older children can broaden their own minds by participating in such activities. Don't let the apathetic community of young people influence you. "It will come about at that time that I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish the men who are stagnant in spirit, who say in their hearts, 'The LORD will not do good or evil!" (Zeph.1.12) Get excited about where you live and what you can do to help benefit your family life, church, community, and school, making a difference in the life of someone else. Commit yourself to making a positive change in someone's life--someone who quite possibly can't do it themselves. You make a difference!

The First-generation Immigrant in America Essay -- Minorities Equality

My grandmother has a certain look in her eyes when something is troubling her: she stares off in a random direction with a wistful, slightly bemused expression on her face, as if she sees something the rest of us can’t see, knows something that we don’t know. It is in these moments, and these moments alone, that she seems distant from us, like a quiet observer watching from afar, her body present but her mind and heart in a place only she can visit. She never says it, but I know, and deep inside, I think they do as well. She wants to be a part of our world. She wants us to be a part of hers. But we don’t belong. Not anymore. Not my brothers—I don’t think they ever did. Maybe I did—once, a long time ago, but I can’t remember anymore. I love my grandmother. She knows that. I know she does, even if I’m never able to convey it adequately to her in words. The scene is always the same: the three of us sitting in a room together, talking. I see her from the corner of my eye, glancing for only a second or two, but always long enough to notice the look on her face, the expression I’ve become so painfully familiar with over the years. I am forced to turn away; the conversation resumes. She is a few feet from us. She hears everything, and understands nothing except what she can gather from the expressions on our faces, the tone of our voices. She pretends not to be bothered, smiling at us and interjecting random questions or comments in Chinese—a language I was raised to speak, a language I’ve slowly forgotten over the years, a language that is now mine only by blood. It is an earnest but usually futile attempt to break through the invisible barrier that separates her from us, and in spite of all her efforts to hide it, that sad, contem... ...weak, when their echoes fade, and in that moment, I will awake to a dark, empty silence. And the silence will be deafening. * La Gringa: Derogatory epithet used to ridicule a Puerto Rican girl who wants to look like a blonde North American. Works Cited Andalzà ºa, Gloria. â€Å"How to Tame a Wild Tongue.† Encounters: Essays for Exploration and Inquiry. 2nd ed. Ed. Pat C. Hoy II and Robert DiYanni. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000. 93-101. Cofer, Judith Ortiz. â€Å"Silent Dancing.† Encounters: Essays for Exploration and Inquiry. 2nd ed. Ed. Pat C. Hoy II and Robert DiYanni. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000. 145-51. â€Å"History.† The Latino/a Education Network Service.14 Oct. 2002.. Tan, Amy. â€Å"Mother Tongue.† Encounters: Essays for Exploration and Inquiry. 2nd ed. Ed. Pat C. Hoy II and Robert DiYanni. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000. 603-07.

That Eye, The Sky

Tim Winton’s that eye, the sky (1986) uses first person narrative techniques, symbolism, imagery and characterisation to create the persona of Morton Flack, the narrator and protagonist of the novel. Winton uses Ort’s narration to give the reader insights into the Flack family, the relationships they have and the issues that they face. As Winton develops Ort’s narration the reader is supplied with many symbolic images. The most important symbol and imagery in the novel is the sky.Prior to Henry Warburton entering the life of Ort and educating him about God and religion, Ort sees the sky as an eye which looks over the world and sees everything. Throughout the novel the eye imagery signifies the spirituality and mysticism between Ort and Henry. This essay will analyse how Winton uses the eye imagery to reveal the differences between the two characters by examining Ort’s unyielding faith in a higher force and Henry Warburton’s ever changing relationshi p with God.This paper will also compare the dispositions of both Ort and Henry. To describe the character of Ort and his journey throughout the novel, one may look to both vision/imagination and spirituality. Ort appears to be a very imaginative child who lacks knowledge and education. This is demonstrated in the book through the colloquial language of the text with phrases such as ‘Geez, yeah’ and ‘Yer justa kid’ (p 35 & 36). Ort has visions of an eye in the sky, jewels appearing in the flour jar and bells ringing in the forest.At night Ort sees rabbits’ eyes around the fence line and a mysterious light above the house (Matthew, 1986, p 83), although Winton describes the light as â€Å"a little cloud small and fat like a woolly sheep† (p 51). Nobody else can see these visions. Most of the time Ort keeps these images to himself. Sam and Alice Flack chose to move to the country after getting married so that they can live amongst the trees. The countryside is another strong image in the book which symbolises the true nature of the Flack family and the reason for the natural connection Ort has with the environment (p 62).When Ort identifies the sky as a symbol of God, he is happy to believe that something is watching over his family and protecting them. The novel ends on Easter morning, signifying the resurrection of Christ, but also the rebirth of nature and Sam Flack’s possible return to conscious life. It is because of Ort’s love for his family and relentless faith in God this miracle has occurred (p 150). Ort is pure and therefore has a natural connection with God, and Winton utilises the eye imagery to connect this with Ort.A glimps into Henry Warburton’s character may be found in the incident where he almost became blind but by some fortune he was miraculously healed. That is when Henry first came a believer in God. After this incident Henry stole a bible and became a Christian (p 92). As explaine d by Watson, a Christian is a person who believes in and follows the teachings of Jesus Christ (2000, p 8). Henry preaches only what he has read from the bible, quite like most institutionalised religions.Henry has never had any visions or powerful sense of spirituality. Henry’s sincerity as he ministers to the Flack family, providing spiritual and practical teaching, is evident, but he is always tormented by his past sins (p 141). Henry believes that his sins have harmed his relationship with God (Watson, 200, p 44), and at times Henry attempts to hide from him, â€Å"I hide and you see. I run and you follow† (p 83). Henry seems to have an ambivalent relationship with God.The reason Henry mysteriously arrived at the Flack household was to try and heal Sam. Henry believed that if he provided this selfless act he would be healed and God would give him the ability to truly love (p 141). Henry is a very hypocritical character who tries to give Ort spiritual meaning, yet i s still searching for meaning himself. Everything about Henry seems to be artificial just like his false eye. There are conflicting characteristics between Ort and Henry. Henry’s false eye emphasises Henry as a flawed messenger.He mimics the words of God, just as his eye mimics the eye in the sky, the true eye (p 133). In comparison Ort has a very natural spirituality and is kind hearted, which leads him to be able to see visions. Ort loves his family so much that he has a habit of peeping through windows, cracks and holes in the walls. In Ort’s mind he is just â€Å"Checking on people† (p 24), just like God is like the sky and can see all and hear all, Ort does not know why it will make a difference if a person’s son or brother sees them as well (p 24).Henry only watches people for his own gratification, for example when he crept around watching the Flack family for weeks and Tegwyn swimming in the â€Å"nick† (p 140). The light that Ort envisages throughout this novel represents religion. Although Henry knows all about religion, he does not really practise what he preaches and consequently cannot see the light (p 91). At the end of the novel when Henry and Tegwyn depart and Grammar dies, there are only three people left in the family (p 150), symbolic of the Holy Trinity.This essay has analysed the significance of the eye imagery in Winton’s novel and how the two characters perceive the eye of God and religion. The major revelation in Ort's spiritual growth is his recognition of Henry Warburton's false identity. Ort has grown and learnt enough about religion and life through Henry Warburton's stories and actions to identify what is right and what is wrong. Although Henry's preaching was honest and true, Ort saw that Henry was far from the image he portrayed himself to be.Winton demonstrates through the eye imagery that Henry is more like the orthodox harshness practised by much of the institutionalised religion. In c ontrast, Winton seems to support the more personalised connectedness between individuals and God which is revealed by Ort. Winton is critically revealing the idea that it is important to trust one’s own faith within the Lord, rather than human leaders of religion because, just like Henry, they too can be deceptive and give a flawed interpretation of God’s messages to their followers.

5 Ways of St. Thomas

First Way:Â  The Argument From Motion St. Thomas Aquinas, studying the works of the Greek philsopher Aristotle, concluded from common observation that an object that is in motion (e. g. the planets, a rolling stone) is put in motion by some other object or force. From this, Aquinas believes that ultimately there must have been an UNMOVED MOVER (GOD) who first put things in motion. Follow the agrument this way: 1) Nothing can move itself. 2) If every object in motion had a mover, then the first object in motion needed a mover. 3) This first mover is the Unmoved Mover, called God. Second Way:Â  Causation Of ExistenceThis Way deals with the issue of existence. Aquinas concluded that common sense observation tells us that no object creates itself. In other words, some previous object had to create it. Aquinas believed that ultimately there must have been an UNCAUSED FIRST CAUSE (GOD) who began the chain of existence for all things. Follow the agrument this way: 1) There exists things t hat are caused (created) by other things. 2) Nothing can be the cause of itself (nothing can create itself. ) 3) There can not be an endless string of objects causing other objects to exist. 4) Therefore, ther must be an uncaused first cause called God.Third Way:Â  Contingent and Neccessary Objects This Way defines two types of objects in the universe: contingent beings and necessary beings. A contingent being is an object that can not exist without a necessary being causing its existence. Aquinas believed that the existence of contingent beings would ultimately neccesitate a being which must exist for all of the contingent beings to exist. This being, called a necessary being, is what we call God. Follow the argument this way: 1) Contingent beings are caused. 2) Not every being can be contingent. 3) There must exist a being which is necessary to cause contingent beings. ) This necessary being is God. Fourth Way:Â  The Agrument From Degrees And Perfection St. Thomas formulated thi s Way from a very interesting observation about the qualities of things. For example one may say that of two marble scultures one is more beautiful than the other. So for these two objects, one has a greater degree of beauty than the next. This is referred to as degrees or gradation of a quality. From this fact Aquinas concluded that for any given quality (e. g. goodness, beauty, knowledge) there must be an perfect standard by which all such qualities are measured. These perfections are contained in God.Fifth Way:Â  The Agrument From Intelligent Design The final Way that St. Thomas Aquinas speaks of has to do with the observable universe and the order of nature. Aquinas states that common sense tells us that the universe works in such a way, that one can conclude that is was designed by an intelligent designer, God. In other words, all physical laws and the order of nature and life were designed and ordered by God, the intellgent designer. A more complete explanation of St. Thomas' Fifth Way about God as Intelligent Designer can be seen on my web page dedicated to Paley's Teleological Argument.

Spel Case

After killing the friend who was left with the shortest straw, the remaining plunders are rescued a couple weeks later and shared their story with their community. The friends are soon met with charges of homicide and disapproval from the public for their lack of moral awareness. This essay will argue that murder is Justifiable when the reality of grim conditions exists. Consequences from such an action do not come to mind when decisions are based solely on emotions and not made with morals and ethical obligations set by society.The spelunkers depended on the murder of one of their friends in order to survive. In a normal situation, these friends would never purposely hurt, let alone ill, one another. The Intent of the person killing Is something to consider. When confronted with the dilemma of having Limited resources, killing each other was the only option for food. The special circumstance these friends were faced with, led too violent act of survival. The spelunkers waited a week after being trapped before normally commit, but cannibalism is something they would not practice either.The thought of eating human flesh to the average person is not desirable. But when put in extenuating circumstances, the reasonable person would do anything in order to live. The immense amount of pressure the friends experienced in making this decision was heightened by the hunger in their bellies and the fear in their hearts. Still, aggression and violence is usually associated with murder. That is not the case in this situation. There was no plan to purposefully and maliciously kill one of their friends before they were trapped.Death was the inevitable future of the four friends and the act of killing the randomly chosen friend brought that reality forward. The system that the spelunkers chose in picking who would die for the greater good of the group was a fair method. One person was not singled out to be killed for any other reason besides having the shortest straw and to be the emergency food source. This is validates that killing one of their friends was only to increase their chances of living. Murder, even though a drastic measure to survive, was absolutely necessary due to the reality of their dire situation.Once the spelunkers were caved in, the reality of their fate was sealed and the probability of surviving this disastrous event was unlikely. The friends had no idea that a trip full of adventure and fun would lead to such a tragic decision. When the subject of reality comes up, the idea of life and existence follows. Human beings have instincts that help them adapt and thrive in unfortunate mishaps. When lives are threatened or challenged, the truth is, people will do anything in their power to save themselves. The case of the spelunkers is no different.Even though the idea of having to kill and eat their friend is unwelcome, it was the best option for survival. There are some things in life that are uncontrollable and the natural occurrence o f a cave-in is Just that. The spelunkers had no connection to the outside world and the session to kill and eat another human was made in the security of their own world, away from the rules of society. Though unintentional, the reality of the spelunkers' situation led to an irreversible decision, in which the consequences were an afterthought.Consequences usually have a negative connotation associated with them. The dire circumstances in which the friends were in, led them to make choices in order to survive. The repercussions the three friends would face were an afterthought in light of trying to survive. In the moment of making the decision to kill another human eyeing, the last thing on their minds was what people would think of them afterwards. They were simply trying to live. Instead of being regarded as brave and courageous in the eye of death, the remaining spelunkers were shamed and ostracizes from society for killing their friend.To be snubbed by the community where one li ves is very difficult to process, especially after the ordeal they Just went through. Then to be categorized as murderers and charged with homicide is unfair. The rules of law should not apply to special circumstances like the case of the spelunkers. If the here friends had not killed their friend and ate him, they would not be alive to tell their story. The consequences of being shunned by the community and being charged with murder, though unanticipated, undoubtedly stirred up emotions of guilt and shame for doing what they needed to do in order to survive. Tit feelings such as fear, despair, or hopelessness, the human mind can make decisions it would not normally. The spelunkers went through a spectrum of emotions before and after the killing of their friend. Being presented with such a calamitous situation, such as being trapped in a cave, can induce a state of panic and anxiety. As much as the four friends wanted to stay calm and wait patiently for help, the idea of dying was t oo frightening. The simple fear of not being able to survive due to limited resources prompted the idea of drawing straws.After the straws were drawn, reality set in that one of them would be eaten. And for the three friends to not feel remorse or guilt after killing their friend was nearly impossible. This act was not an easy one and the remorse and guilt will not go away. Without the sacrifice of the friend who died, none of the men would be alive. The friends are grateful and appreciative for their friend's sacrifice for them to live, yet sad and remorseful that their situation led them to that conclusion.Since the spelunkers were faced with fear they may not live, they acted with their emotions instead of the morals they would have normally abided by in everyday life. Having morals helps people chose from right and wrong doings. For the most part, the majority of humans would not result to violence or murder in a normal, everyday circumstance. There must be a catalyst for such b ehavior. In the case of the spelunkers, their feelings superseded moral consideration based on the fear of death. The emotionally charged spelunkers thought with their hearts and not with their minds.So is the difference between emotions and morals. The friendships that the four men shared were strong and the loyalty they had to one another was proven by the participation in drawing straws. This moral dilemma was the ultimate test of the bond the friends shared. The three friends should not be held responsible for murder based on their limited options of survival. The men's' morals did not come into consideration when trying to fight to stay alive. Though the decision to kill their friend for the benefit of the group's survival is questionable, the spelunkers should not be charged with homicide.Killing someone under any other circumstance is a plausible reason to arrest and charge someone of murder. But the reality of the situation is, if the spelunkers had enough resources and if e motions such as fear for survival did not exist, murder would not have occurred because their morals would tell them that the consequences for such action, such as the absence of their friend, being charged for murder, and being ostracizes, was not worth it. The truth is, the spelunkers had no other choice but to omit this powerful act if they wanted to stay alive.And, if they had not killed their friend, four people would be dead instead of Just one person. Every day, people are faced with moral dilemmas and controversial subject matters. Those people are no different than the spelunkers. Although the circumstances surrounding this controversy are not a normal, fear can drive people to do things they would not typically do. If the roles were reverse and if anyone else were in the place of the spelunkers, it would be a challenge for people to accept death without trying everything they could to survive.

Heritage Countee Cullen Essay

â€Å"What is Africa to me?† (Cullen, Line 10). Heritage is an African American poem by Countee Cullen that was written during the Harlem Renaissance. Cullen was born in a primarily white upbringing; therefore he had no experience in African culture or heritage and was confused. His African heritage concerns him; yet, because he must adapt to the orders of a mostly white culture that is not concerned with his cultural origins. This poem is primarily the internal conflict of Countee Cullen on the dilemma of a modern African American aware of his rich Native African heritage but stranded in a sterile conformist American culture that offer him only stereotypical insight into his heritage and no true unbiased perception of his own culture. In Heritage Cullen uses literary devices such as imagery, symbolism and irony to show that he is conflicted on his view of his African heritage. Cullen uses imagery as a literary device to show his confusion of African heritage. Thus Cullen begi ns with a question concerning the nature of an abstract and rather remote Africa. â€Å"What is Africa to me, copper sun or scarlet sea, jungle star or jungle track, strong bronzed men, or regal black, women from whose loins I sprang, when the birds of Eden sang† (Cullen, Lines 1-6). This quote shows how Cullen lists some concrete images which serve as specific emphases for his conflicting views of his native land. This shows an African Americans point of view of Africa. For example in the phrase â€Å"jungle star or jungle track†; the first part â€Å"jungle star† has a positive connotation and the second part â€Å"jungle track† has a negative connotation. In a way the positive connotations represent African perspective and the negative connotations represent African perspective. â€Å"Sung by wild barbaric birds, Goading massive jungle herds, Juggernauts of flesh that pass, Trampling tall defiant grass, Where young forest lovers lie, Plighting troth beneath the sky† (Cullen, Lines 13-17). In contrast to the first quotes the second imagery quote shows a purely American perspective of Africa. This quote shows the constant stereotypical view of Africa that Cullen was fed for his whole childhood.  This quote compared to the first show s that Africa was a wild barbaric place. These two perspectives really confused him. Not only does Cullen use imagery as a literary device to show his confusion on his heritage but he also uses symbolism as a literary device that show this too. Cullen furthermore uses a symbolism of the drum to show that even if he tries he cannot block out his heritage. â€Å"So I lie, who always hear, though I cram against my ear, both my thumbs, and keep them there, great drums throbbing through the air† (Cullen, Lines 19-22). This quote shows that he is trying to block out his heritage. Despite this effort he still hears the drum which symbolizes tribal beats from Africa. This shows that American culture has forced Cullen to deny the primitive African rhythms that pulses through his body. â€Å"Who find no peace, night or day, no slight release, from the unremittent beat, made by cruel padded feet, walking through my body’s street† (Cullen, Lines 64-68). In this quote reassures the point that he feels this tribal beat no matter what he does or what his condition he feels the beat within his blood and bones that he cannot get rid of. Not only does the author use symbolism as a literary device to illustrate his dilemma on his heritage but he also uses irony as another tool to show it. Finally Cullen uses irony to show that he still has not come to term about what his true heritage really is. â€Å"I belong to Jesus Christ†¦ although I speak with my mouth thus, in my heart, do I play a double part, ever at thy glowing altar, must my heart grow sick and falter, wishing he I served were black† (Cullen, Lines 96-101). This quote show irony because he states that he belongs to Christ, but later on he states that truly in his heart he wishes his god was black like him. This show that even if he thinks that he has decided which side to choose he still has not truly done so. â€Å"Nor yet has my heart or head, in the least way realized, they and I are civilized† (Cullen, Lines 126-128). This quote shows that he still has not decided yet; but he still ironically he still says â€Å"they and I are civilized†. This is ironic because the line before â€Å"Nor yet has my heart or head, in the least way realized† contradicts this statement. In this African American poem to show that he is conflicted on his view of his African heritage, Cullen uses literary devices such as imagery,  symbolism and irony. The circumstances he grew up with did not show him the perspective of his people; he was constantly give only the American point of view of Africa. This gave him a great internal dilemma of his own heritage because in his blood he had pride. At the end of this poem he is still conflicted about what his stance truly is. The lesson of this poem is that despite where you live and what biased information you are given you can never forget your roots. Work Cited Cullen, Countee. â€Å"Heritage.† The Poetry Foundation : Find Poems and Poets. Discover Poetry. The Poetry Foundation, n.d. Web. 4 Nov. 2014.